Ruth Fontaine Scott to daughter, Jesse Virginia Scott
Letter Oct 29, 1930
Letter Nov 7, 1930
Letter Nov 28, 1930
Letter Dec 7, 1930
Postcards January 1931
Letter probably January 1931
Letter February 11, 1931
Letter February 27, 1931
Letter March 9, 1931
Letter Late March 1931
Letter April 1931
Letter early June 1931
Letter June 11, 1931
Letter June 18, 1931
Letter June 24, 1931
Letter July 3, 1931
Letter July 9, 1931
Letter July 28, 1931
Letter Aug 14, 1931
Letter Aug 22, 1931
Notes from Jack Scott, March 2001
Notes from Rachel Hardin, March 2001
Addresses
Return to Stith Valley front page
Notes from Jess Scott:
o Son is Walter C. Scott
o Uncle Sam is Dr. Sam Henry Stith
o Aunt Lilly is Lilly May Morris Scott who married Alex Scott
o Miss Tula Meador is Vitula Morris who married a Meador. She is sister to Aunt
Lilly and mother of Leah Meador.
o Grandma is Laddy Scott (Adelissa Louisa Hardaway Scott) Ruth's mother in law
o Mama is Ruth Fontaine Scott
o Dad is Walter Lee Scott
o Son, Jesse, Mary, Rena, Bill, Jack and Jimmie are children of Ruth and Walter Lee Scott
o Uncle F. is Fletcher Mercer Scott, brother to Walter Lee Scott
o Aunt Mayte, is Mayte Jones Scott wife of Uncle F.
o Pappa is Charles Beauregard Fontaine. The farm was in Arkansas. The Scott
family was there when Jessie was born.
o John Moorman was John Moorman Williams son of John Williams and Sallie Moorman William
o Alex was Alex Hager
o Reid was Jessie's boy friend, Reid Booheir from Indiana where the Witts lived.
o Sulfur Well is now called Doe Run
o Miss Zelma was Miss Zell Moreman, of Big Spring
o John S. is John Scott Witt, Jesse is staying with Aunt Mago (Margaret Scott Witt) near
Crawfordsville In.
o Lois Hunt is Lois Hunt Shacklett married a Groves
o Aunt Diva is Diva Fontaine, married Will Reves
o Uncle Will is Will Reves who was a pharmacist in Piggot Arkansas
o Helen, 16 (1930), and Norman, 12 (1930) were their children
o Fonty is Fontaine Reves, Diva's oldest child. Her 19th birthday was in Sept 1930.
o Aunt Mabel Sam is Mabel Coleman, married Sam Henry Stith
o Uncle Sam is Sam Henry Stith, he was a medical doctor
o Mary Lad is daughter of John and Margaret Witt
o Irby Hardin is Irby Shacklett daughter of Richard Shacklett and Viola Williams
Shacklett, married Guy Hardin
o John R. is John R. Hardin son of Irby. He was 17.
o Mamie is Mamie Applegate, John R.'s girlfriend.
o Frances Stith is Uncle Arvin Stith's daughter
o Mr. Hopper was County Agent
o Cousin Beulah was Beulah Fontaine Hook, Uncle Jim's daughter.
o Mrs. Monroe Allen - Rena Lou's friend - was Avadelle Greer who married Allen
- Sons would have been Woodrow and Donald who were about Rena Lou's
age.
o Rena Lou must have been teaching in Payneville
o Lillian may have been Lillian Lusk - about Jessie's age
o Aunt Diva may have been staying at relative's house in Brandenburg?
Guston Ky - Oct 29, 1930 -
My dear Jessie:
In spite of this pretty day I have "rheumitiz" so badly in my
right shoulder that I can hardly write. Dad said he thought he & Tom had as well
ship me & Alicie - but upon inquiring found Aunt Lena & Miss Nellie & Mrs.
Hamilton all had arm aches - so said he'd as well make the best of a bad bargain - haven't
been able to comb my hair since Sat. tho some of the kids come to my rescue now and then.
Was awfully glad to hear from Aunt Mago - Grandmama was over so thought she'd like to read
the letter - but the mention of Reid put a bad taste in her mouth - said she didn't
believe in beaus! The only thing I object to is him staying so late - I think you told me
he was inclined to stay til 12 - well I think 10 o'clock is late enough for anybody to
stay and I think you & he ought to consider Aunt Mago in the matter. Tho maybe
she'll have to do like I did last winter or fall rather when Rena & Mary were teaching
- it didn't worry me at all to go to the door at 10 & tell them it was bed time.
Sometimes I had to go more than once too!
But in a nice way you could tell Reid how you have to be up early to go
to school etc., & if necessary tell him your Kentucky mother always calls bed time at
10 o'clock. Well I didn't mean to get so off on this theme. Mary is very much
enthused over being invited to a Hallo'e'en party at Big Spring - however don't seen to me
as if there'll be many there - In the High School are Hattie Lee Dowell, Leo Kaelin, Reba,
Eugene, Eula Frances & Ralph Burnett - Well the first two said they didn't want to be
in a party so the other four invited Lena & Mary Chester Huffines & Leroy Burnett
now won't it be some party - Christine Allen is getting it up - I asked Leroy was it
Dewell or Eula F. that I wanted to tell you - but he didn't tell much - Reba invited him
to the party - Verna & Romeo help him see Dewell every Sunday - Last week Mr. Hopper
visited schools about 4 H work - I went with him to Hall - then on to Brandenburg to
Womans Club that afternoon - Rena had ear - I spent night at Cousin Irby's - then on
Thursday Morn. went with Mr. Hopper to Paynesville - he has over 20 4-H members there but
no leader so I had found a woman down there who was interested & we went to see her
& she promised to be a leader - Mrs. Monroe Allen (they own farm where Rena boards but
live in Paynesville) You know Donald Allen don't you. We visited the school about 2 hrs.
& I actually made sort of a speech - Mr. H. wanted me to tell - "Why we have best
club in county" - Then in afternoon we went to Muldraugh & organized a 4 H club -
15 members - Found a nice leader up there. When I got home Thursday Eve. had gotten
a letter saying I had won a radio at fair - It was a fake - but sounded so real - & as
Dad intended to go to Lou. with Frank Mitchell the next day we thought I'd better go too -
well Billy Willis went & Frank Billy & Dad rode in truckseat & I rode in Dad's
lap - for fear of being too heavy I held with all my might to something on windshield -
which I know is cause of my rheumatiz - imagine riding that far on your toes &
imagination! But we had lots of fun. Dad & I ate dinner at Uncle Tom
Scott's. Walter Jr. said for you to write to him - 428 Linden Walk - Lexington.
With just lots of love to all, Mama.
Jimmy & Jack do so well in school & Mary & Lena B. intend to take Exam. Bill is sure growing - has gotten in lots of walnuts.
Nov 1930
o Aunt Anne is Anna Lee Fontaine who married J.M. Phillips. She was sister to C.B.
Fontaine's father.
o Marie is Marie Emmons, Walter's girl friend at the University of Kentucky
o Who is Maude?
Guston Ky - Nov. 7 - 1930
My dear Jessie
Was so glad to hear from you - I know you think I'm slow & I am -
haven't gotten lining for coat yet - but imagine you are needing the overshoes - so shall
send them & the old rose dress & the green polo shirt of Son's - maybe you'll have
a skirt suit able to wear with it - take good care of it as it's a lend. Son said he
was going to send money for your shoes - if he does - put it all in a nice looking pair of
shoes - plenty long. Why I got 6 1/2 and they don't touch my feet and are sure
comfortable. I keep forgetting to mention the red sweater - you know I really needed
it badly - hadn't a sign of a sweater - but Aunt Annie thought you should have it - and I
know it's large on you - so send it back to me sometime when you have time & postage -
tho I know that's not yet. I wore the old rose dress two days at fair & hurt it
so under arms had to have it cleaned - Maude cut buttons off. & I'm just getting
them sewed on & I have lost two - so these two others I'll send along - but thought
they'd look better off. Thought this dress might do to wear at night - but if not -
I can wear it next summer. If I ever sell turkeys - am going to get you some
stockings. Mary & I are having a time - have one nice pair between us.
Mary likes to dress up in Rena's old brown coat & my last winter brown hat - it
becomes her too.
What did you think of picture -
The worst off for clothes here are Jack & Jimmy - their blue
clothes you helped me make in Summer are wearing out - I was wishing the other day that
you were here to help make some more. They each have overcoats & shoes - but
need everything else. I've never gotten the overcoat from Grandmama's - she told me
the other day that Aunt Mago sent Bill some stockings - I'm sure glad of it. How
does John S. look in the overcoat. Rena Lou is sure not having to worry about
clothes - she wears print dresses - as says the woman down there seems to love to wash
& iron them - she got her a pair of heavy black oxfords that could stand the rocks.
I believe you would enjoy it down there - she says there's four or five swains drop
in once or twice a week & fiddle for her benefit - "Miss Kate" - her
landlady - reminds her of Cousin Lily Wright - just can't do enough for anybody - then she
tells of the three cabins she passes on her way (nearly 2 mile walk) down the
"mountain" to school - where the women never get out - and the only way to get
out is muleback - the three women were all snake bitten this summer & cut a chicken
open - applied it to wound - & went on about their business.
Son writes quite a bit about Marie - so think I'll have to get out next
summer & see what she & Reid look like - Didn't you say Reid belonged to Christian
Church - well Marie does - and so does "Buddy" - if you know who he is .
If they all belong to Christian Church it's quite a coincidence. I went to Big
Spring with Dad yesterday in a wagonload of wood - he was going to help clean cemetery
& took wood for church - Sure had a nice visit with Miss Zelma - she asked after you
& all of Aunt Mago's family - Just lots & lots of love
Mama
Maybe November 1930?
Saturday Morn-
Dear Jessie,
Was surprised to hear from you yesterday as was expecting you &
Reid to drive in today!
Grandmama even said over phone this morn that she was expecting you
& Reid & John Scott - Rena brought Verna Foushee home with her yesterday - V. came
down on train-
Mary and I sure have worked this week - canning & washing curtains etc.
Kept thinking I'd write Aunt Mago but haven't - have some pants for
John Scott & several other things to send - and about the overcoat - I imagine the one
John S. has will be too small for him this winter - and as I had to keep fibbing - thought
maybe you'd better bring it home - the one of John Scott's was nearly too small for Bill
last winter - ask her if she wants me to try to sell it or have Grandma put it away - Jack
& Jim have overcoats one nearly as large at Johnny's - tho maybe I'd wish I'd kept it
later on -
Aunt Annie is coming soon - and she'll ask to see the overcoat.
She paid Eva $10 for coat - tho I didn't know it at the time - I have a dress or two for
Mary Lad & ask Aunt Mago if she's supplied in winter coats - the one I got 4 or 5 yrs
ago is real good only ugly color & she could have it dyed (or dye it) & could
recut it if she wanted to go to that trouble. Maybe Ben & Fannie would have room
to take back a big box - Hoping you are having a real good time -
With lots of love,
Mama
Undated, probably Friday, November 28, 1930, the day after Thanksgiving
o Who is Mrs. B?
o Cousin Gill is Gilbert Wright who lived next farm to the Scotts, his father was
also Gilbert Wright who married a Stith. That's how he was "cousin"
o Who is Joe Brown?
o Lou. is probably Louisville
o Which farm was the Sipes farm?
o Who is Ester Allen?
o Cornellia is Corneilla Stith
daughter of William Allen Stith (Uncle Allen)
o Where is Flat Rock
Dear Jessie:
Friday Morn.
Kinda believe I'm
geting mixed up on when I wrote to you last. How did you stand the weather with out
the big coat- Mrs. B charges so much for her goods - I've been trying to find something
cheaper. This week was fearful - and I get the mulligrubs when there's no chance of
getting out. Rena came to B-burg Wednesday - buy it was so awful cold she stayed
until this morning - its thawing up some today. Am wondering how you spent
Thanksgiving - I washed but we did have a good dinner - I had made a cake by a
recipe Rena had brought from down there - I'll send it to Aunt Mago some time - and we had
fried chicken - Dad borrowed some sausage from Cousin Gill - he'll kill hogs Monday if
weather is suitable. I always want to go to church Thanksgiving day - but fat
chance! Jimmy and Jack go to school every day - Jimmy wrote down 88,100,000 and
asked if that was 8,800,000. Said he knew he had the decimals right - he listens to
Bill's class. Said there was a whole lot of words that ended in s or ed or ing - and
he can tell them. He said for me not to put his recess apple in his jacket as the
boys whizzed out when the bell rang and he didn't have time to get it out of jacket.
He did so enjoy Margaret Alma's letter - and when I showed him what M.A. really had
written - he said I really think that's good - it's better than Joe Brown can do.
Jack is getting so he read the funny paper. Well - with Rena Lou talking - I don't
know much what I'm writing. Mr. and Mrs. Sipes went to Lou. yesterday to Frances
Sipes wedding - by her being married at 4 o'clock on Thursday afternoon I judge he's a
protestant. Speaking of Sipes - late one afternoon I had to go after turkeys - they
had spentnight before at Sipes. I took Bill - and your friend - is he Robert -
attempted to help me separate the turkeys - well I sent Bill alone with some of our
turkeys and sent Robert to house to count theirs - and there I stayed waiting for him - a
shower came - darkness arrived and still no Robert - I yelled myself hoarse and got so mad
I nearly died - when I got home I phoned back - and he said he thought I'd gone - I
thought of all dumb poor creatures - but afraid I haven't made this as funny or awful as
it was - as Rena has recounted some of her varied adventures -
Dearest Jessie:
I'll
write you a few lines, I wrote you a note once but it didn't pass the board of censure.
I have heard that you and Reid getting along fine. I haven't done much this
year been to L-ville twice and the other times I set at home. Only one of the
natives of Flat Rock took me to Hardinsburg one night to the show. Ester Allen is
here spent the night and so did Cornelia. Write to me - my address in
Andyville. We get the mail twice a week Love Rena Lou.
Letter written Dec 7, 1930
o I read into this that they are killing two hogs because that is all they
have available, not because they really want to cut down on meat consumption?
o Who are Miss Alcie and Toni? They must be fairly well off. I see in another
letter where Miss Alcie buys Mary a dress.
Looks like they have been spending money on the tenant house? I
might look for a sample of the "heavy red paper" they papered the walls with?
- Is Gracie their daughter?
- Who is Hon. Preston Powell who stops by and milks the cow?
o Who is "Mr. Scott" that built the toilet for Miss A? I assume that must
be Walter Lee Scott, but why does Ma refer to him as Mr. Scott in this context when he is
always "Dad"?
o Aunt Mago is Margaret Scott Witt. This is whose family Jessie is staying with.
o A cow produces extra milk after she has a calf and is said to be "fresh".
o Harold and A are Charles Harold Scott married Alma Geigel and lived in Iowa at this
time.
o Ike and Mary ... was this Ike Hicks? Was his wife Mary?
o Diva is Ma's sister who is in Arkansas, soon to come down with cancer
- Who is Jean Lee
o Cousin Irby is Irby Shacklette Hardin
- I wonder which of Irby's sisters might have sent the clothes?
Frances?
From: Mrs. Walter Scott, Guston, Ky
To: Miss Jessie V. Scott c/o Mrs. J. L. Witt, New Ross, Indiana.
Guston, Dec. 8, p.m., 1930, KY.
2c postage.
Dear Jessie: Sunday Night-
We killed hogs Wed. or Thurs. eve - and kept me pretty busy rest of week so I
fell down on letter writing. First time since we married that we only had two to
kill but they were very good size - and guess we do not need to eat so much meat. We
sure did have good pig foot jelly for supper - best I ever made - had whipped cream with
it. I made a cake this morn. but we weren't cake hungry tonight - but it will sure
come in handy for school lunch. I'll declare getting them off to school is a job -
have to fix water for each one to carry - just think have had to do that ever since school
began - each of boys have a bottle & Mary a pint jar - the last thing before they
start Jimmy generally has to use you know what - then he'll decide he doesn't know his
lesson - well it does look as if I ought to be used to it by now doesn't it? Jimmy
tires easily of what I fix for lunch too - of course having fresh meat helps lots - they
were getting tired of peanut butter - have been making a large pie & letting Mary
carry pan and all to school.
Last night we went to Burnetts in a wagon - we invited Miss Alcie to go
& she dolled up in beads, hat, etc. & I had on a boggan of Bill's & an old
sweater - was wanting a rain barrel to catch what little water that does fall. Sure
get tired washing in hard water. Taking of Miss Alcie, Dad & Bill ate supper up
there twice last week. They sure have the house fixed cozy - all three rooms papered
with the heavy red paper - nice linoleum rugs in all three floors - Tony has underpinned
the house - he works at something all the time - and as you know Mr. Scott built them a
bath-room (toilet) she calls it - Gracie is home - and lately - I think has worn stockings
all fall - was bare armed & bare legged - The Hon. Preston Powell spends every weekend
up there. His light colored trousers looked a trifle coolish today. He always
milks for Miss Alice (when there) - Tony can't milk - but as Miss A. says - There ain't no
child no better taken care of than our cow is. Tony weather stripped around the
stall - gathers broom sedge & other dry grass - clears out the stall & puts fresh
bedding in every day - They buy all kinds of feed & always cook the corn they feed
her. They call the cow "Pretty" and when they call her she sure goes to
them - We have two calves - and expect another Xmas - Then two cows to be fresh in Spring.
Tell Aunt Mago we'll have a calf for her if she ever comes back - to make up the
last year deficiency. I know she'd like to be back - but her children aren't having
to get out in all this weather to get to school - This hard times has struck everywhere -
we'll get about 10c for tobacco - All I can hope is that bottom has been reached &
we'll begin to do better. If she wants me to I can watch Courier Journal ads after
Xmas about farms for rent - tho I can't advise what to do. I've always wanted the
boys to deed her their prospective interest in the home place - as think that ought to be
hers - Walter & Harold would agree and I believe Winfield would too. I mentioned
this to Grandmama lately - but she wouldn't say anything. As for Grandmama I think
she's doing just what she wants to do - she always seems happy - she goes when she pleases
& stays home when she pleases & no one else can change her. It doesn't seem
to discommode her to go to Fletcher's at night. We'd be glad for her to winter here
& I told her she & Mary would be comfortable upstairs - but I think she wants to
be free to come & go - Harold & A. wanted her up there for winter so she's doing
what she is because she wants to. We spent today over there - Ike & Mary were
there - had such a nice day & dinner. Mary went over last night - we went over
in wagon. Mary received two boxes last week. Diva sent some of Jean Lee's
things - most too small for Mary - One of Cousin Irby's sisters sent a box - & out of
it I think I can rig you up a party
(This ends here, but perhaps another page will turn up? JBS)
Jan 31
o Lois Hunt is Lois Hunt Shacklett married a Groves
o Aunt Diva is Diva Fontaine, married Will Reves
o Uncle Will is Will Reves who was a pharmacist in Piggot Arkansas
o Helen, 16 (1930), and Norman, 12 (1930) were their children
o Fonty is Fontaine Reves, Diva's oldest child. Her 19th birthday was in Sept 1930.
Memphis, Tenn., De Soto Sta.
Jan. 14, 9 PM, 1931
From: Mrs. Walter Scott, Baptist Memorial Hospital, Memphis Tenn.
To: Miss Jessie V. Scott, New Ross, Indiana
Wed -
Dear Jessie -
Suppose Grandma wrote you about Aunt Diva. I arrived this morn.
& spent two hrs with her - am at Louis Hunt's now where I'll stay - Didn't have a
chance to ask nurse about Aunt D. & Uncle Will is home today - but she suffers so
& is so thin - meant to send your letter to Son about wanting to go to Indianapolis -
you write him as I'm sure he'll help you - be sure and do.
I'm so glad Aunt Diva knew me and she could last awhile - I do not know
if they removed Cancer or not. Isn't it sad to think of Helen & Norman trying to
do without mother - Shall write you when I know more - Lois asked about you -
Lots of Love Mama
-------------------------------------------
Memphis, Tenn., De Soto Sta.
Jan. 19, 6 PM, 1931
[Caption on postcard: BAPTIST MEMORIAL HOSPITAL: The South's Greatest Hospital.
The Most Complete Service of any Hospital in the United States. Four Hundred Beds.
Splendid Hotel. Doctors' Office Building. Grill. Drug Store.
Barber Shop. Beauty Shop. Flower Shop-All Under One Roof and Garage Adjoining.
1929 Record - 15,094. Patients Admitted. Charit $228,413.16. Now
Endowment, Community Chest or Taxation Support.]
To: Miss Jessie Scott, New Ross, Indiana
Monday -
So glad to hear from you & Aunt Mago today - Aunt Diva really looks
better - took her first nap yesterday without opiate. Drs. think now she may get
home for awhile. Think I'll go home Tuesday night. Lois & husband are sure
nice to me. Am so glad I can be with Aunt D.as she really talks a little now.
Mama
[Letter is undated - probably January 1931]
Friday
Dear Jessie;
Aunt Diva grows weaker - the nurse says she may last two or three days
- she talks to us at times - while ago when I told her how much you appreciated her
Christmas present - she said I believe she really did like what I sent. Oh it is so
sad to see her & to think there's nothing can be done - Yesterday Will sent for
children - Fonty, Helen - Norman - Also Uncle Dave, Aunt Cora, Uncle Stith & Rev. C.
M. Reves are here.
Norman spent last night with me out at Lois Hunts - The cancer is
between walls of bowel. They cut out some but it's in last stage - and no hopes at
all - toxic poisoning has set up -
I hope you wrote to Walter Jr. & told him about wanting to go to
Indianapolis.
You know I had cut out stuff for Rena to get her ready for school.
I'm hoping you are fine & that Aunt Mago & family are all doing well -
With just lots of love
Mama
Guston, Ky - Feb 11, 1931
My dear Jessie,
Was awfully glad to hear from you even if I am slow about writing -
Guess you have gotten the package by now - sure hated to be so slow about the bloomers.
Hope the dress fits you - it looks like you - Rena was crazy about it for her as it
was long etc. and we had something else for you - then decided to swap around - there were
three pretty good dresses (from Cousin Nel Fontaine) - Rena had just ordered silk for you
a dress - she ordered some for herself and liked it so well - that she ordred same quality
for you - in Sears cheap sale - it is page 36 - at bottom - crepe - at $1.00 yrd - no. 17
for you - she ordered no. 21 for herself - and it is so pretty. We have a real cute
new pattern too - am going to make Rena's puff sleeves - do you want yours short or long -
I do wish I could spare money for you a beret - maybe I can later - am going to ask Son to
help you out in everyday shoes. Guess I'll have to send sample of my Sears dress
that cost 36c - got 3 yds at 12c - guaranteed not to fade. Also got some goods for
gowns. The roads were so good Rena came home again last week end - it rained a
little Fri. night - so Sat. afternoon she went back and I was glad she did as it rained
sure enough Sat. night.
Miss Nellie, Miss Mary H. & I went to last day of school - walked
down - Bill made 100 on all exams except language & made 97 in that - Poor Jack had to
miss right at last in account of sore eyes - didn't last but a day & no one else took
it.
Yesterday, Mrs. Hamilton had a hen party - Miss Nellie & Miss
Ellen, Mrs. Hager and Miss Mary, Mrs. Bunger & I - we had a real nice time - I've been
"ailing" off & on for over a week - so do not feel as work brittle as I
ought. Am going down next week for Uncle Sam to examine me & see what he thinks
might be done. Mary will write more. Lots of love, Mama.
(Other side of page)
Guston, Kentucky
Feb 11, 1931
Dear Jessie,
Will write you a few lines on back of Mama's letter. School was
out last Friday and I went down to the school house Cornelia stayed alnight with me
Thursday nite. Lena M & Lena B missed school just to get to come down there.
Miss Alcie "Daddy" and I went down to Burnetts in the wagon
Saturday afternoon. "Miss Alcie" brought me a new dress it is green
checked I will send you a sample of it if I don't forget. I made it by that pattern
of ours the one Mama sent you in the package. Aunt Maytie has invited us over to her
house for Sunday (15) she wants me to come over Saturday morn to help her I guess she is
going to have other company too.
There is to be a club meeting at the school house Friday.
Rena Lou was home last week and stayed till Saturday afternoon her
school is out Friday (13) I wanted to go back with her if she had stayed till Sunday.
She said she was going to send Harold Hall after me but don't guess she will.
I have been sewing this week I made the dress "Miss Alcie"
got me and we [are] going to try and sew today. Cornelia went to Louisville Sunday
with Blanch D.G. she borrowed some dresses from me. I sure will be glad when you
come home when is your school out write to me sometime.
"Mary"
The teacher stay alnight with William the last week of school and
wanted to know how "Virginia" was (ha! ha!)
Feb 27
o Aunt Mabel Sam is Mabel Coleman, married Sam Henry Stith
o Uncle Sam is Sam Henry Stith, he was a medical doctor
o Mary Lad is daughter of John and Margaret Witt
o Irby Hardin is Irby Shacklett daughter of Richard Shacklett and Viola Williams
Shacklett, married Guy Hardin
o John R. is John R. Hardin son of Irby. He was 17.
o Mamie is Mamie Applegate, John R.'s girlfriend.
o Frances Stith is Uncle Arvin Stith's daughter
o Mr. Hopper was County Agent
o Cousin Beulah was Beulah Fontaine Hook, Uncle Jim's daughter.
o Mrs. Monroe Allen - Rena Lou's friend - was Avadelle Greer who married Allen
- Sons would have been Woodrow and Donald who were about Rena Lou's
age.
o Rena Lou must have been teaching in Payneville
o Lillian may have been Lillian Lusk - about Jessie's age
o Aunt Diva may have been staying at relative's house in Brandenburg?
Rachel's notes
Guston Ky - Feb 27, 1931.
Dear Jessie;
Can't find my good pen but did want to tell you how glad we were to
hear from you - that is your letter to Rena - It is sure fine about you getting the
History essay prize - Have located the pen - you ought to get something that you could
keep with the prize money - tho I suspect you need silk stockings. About the
lavender moire - I basted it a long time ago but haven't gotten any silk thread to match -
I'll send it to you and you can wear it or not - it would look well at night. Rena
says if we could get narrow lavender moire & put up & down the 4 seams in skirt -
(all I like is the money to get ribbon) and use as a belt also - that the dress would look
nice. Hope to hear what kind of school shoes you got - Mary is still down at Uncle
Sam's she had the "suit" as Rena calls it - it's light weight & dark blue -
skirt jacket & blouse - Tho Mary needs it I'm pretty sure she could send it to you to
wear the last month of school - as Dad says, it's the first thing she's had on that was
big enough for her. We have a dark red crepe skirt & sleeveless jacket (but no
blouse) that would about fit Mary Lad - Now if she needs it and the color suits I'll send
it to her - if she does not need it I'll give it to Frances Stith - So let me know when
you write -
Rena Lou and I went to B-burg Wednesday afternoon & came back
Thursday afternoon - first time we've left men folks no "skirt" at all.
Bill and Jack were fussing some & Jim said "I don't care - we have gooder things
when Ma's gone - cause she leaves us "pudding" and hard "boled"
eggs" - we left plenty of bread & cooked beans & they cooked eggs - in
addition I left a hen & 11 chickens on screen porch and Mr. Charlie gave the boys a
lamb the day I left - Jack & Jim went after it & Jack said it could "walk
& talk both" - so the lamb was in a tub in the kitchen - the house looked fairly
well when we got back. The other day Jim broke a window light - threw something at
Jack - said "the window light wouldn't a broke if Jack hadn't moved his
head!" About our trip Irby Hardin entertained Woman's Club - such a pretty
afternoon & so many out - topic was "citizenship" & very interesting -
She served two kinds of cake & brick ice cream the center was a red hatchet - such
cute favors too - Aunt Mabel Sam brought Mary so she & Rena were both guests - I
spent the night there & Rena at Cousin Beulah's - Then Mr. Hopper (He didn't go - just
Rena & I went - ) had made a date for me at Paynesville 4-H club for Thurday morning -
We got down there about 10 a.m. - & there were 11 girls & their leader - Dorothy
Cooper - who married the school teacher down there "Pat" Hayden - So we started
up a sewing class - had an interesting meeting - Mrs. Monroe Allen - Rena Lou's friend -
sent word she'd fixed dinner for us - so we sure accepted - They keep the garage - and
they all tease Rena about one of the garage boys who was so nice to her this winter - We
got home fairly early in the afternoon - About Messenger - didn't you know that Mr. Duncan
had been about to die since December? No Messenger - Several are trying to buy
it. Saw Lillian & she said you hadn't written to her. Cousin Irby is still
having a time with John R. & Mamie - they're going to send him to Lexington as soon as
school is out. Aunt Diva is getting on fine - has been in the kitchen & can set
down & see about things - also took an auto ride Saturday - she mentioned what nice
letters you wrote - so write her about your History Prize. Lots of love to you all,
Mama
Hope you to learn to drive & can take kids to Sunday School - Don't worry about me - I don't feel badly except at "times" - Uncle Sam says he can treat me - I'm doing alright.
March 9, 1931
o Shel Shacklett?
o Which Lena was taking Examination with Mary?
o Cornelia is Cornelia Stith, daughter of William Allen Stith
o Jim Burch?
o Dorsey and Mary who live in B-burg?
o Lillian?
o Aunt Maytie is Maytie Jones Scott m. Fletcher Scott
o Frank Mannel?
o Miss Nellie?
o Was Mr. Bondurant on the Fair board or something like that?
o Was Delineator a magazine?
Envelope found March 9, 1931 to Miss Jessie V. Scott, New Ross Indiana, from Mrs Walter Scott, Guston, Ky.
Not dated, probably early March 1931
Dear Jessie,
Was sure glad to hear from you yesterday like you. I had been complaining about not
hearing from you. Grandmama had sent your letter to her over here and as it was so
newsy I sent it in to Son. About the cake - G-ma brought a sample over here and I
said - I bet that's Maggie's date cake - but she insisted it was a bought cake, said
couldn't anybody make me to look so perfect and it tasted like a bought one - but I stuck
to my point and said I'd ask - It was sure fine and I'm going to try making one. You
sure were nicely remembered for Christmas - you have about all you need haven't you.
I've been ordering some stuff for Rena Lou since neither of us seem to get a store.
But it's so slow coming afraid I won't get it made up in time for her. She'll
quit teaching the 30th and go to Lexington the next day. I wish you were ready to go
to college next fall. Shel Shacklatte took Journalism and liked it so well - she
worked her way thro too. The teacher is drilling Mary and Lena for Examination - but
I'm afraid she hasn't had enough arithmetic. Of course Cornelia will pass - Wish
Mary could have a good 8 or 9 mos. in 8th grade - She and Jack are only ones going to
school in mud - Jimmy went through the 1st reader and reviewed it - so I don't see any use
of him wading out this kind of weather - William isn't going either as he keeps coughing -
Have I written you since we discovered his ailment - he passed two 8 inch worms one day -
his stomach had been hurting over a week - Son sent him the gun - paid $5.75 for it.
He's more than delighted - Son was sure nice to us all I thought - I told you about
him sending me a print dress didn't I? I think it's nice about you having a new
dress. You can send it some time and I can make it by your sport dress pattern can't
I. I'm so glad you have a teacher you like so well and want you to show her how well
you can do - Am proud of you. About Jim Burch - I haven't been to B-burg since - but
I'm wondering about Mary - she thought Jim would grieve the rest of his life. Dorsey
still goes with her - and wants to marry but I think she just wants to stay home and him
take her to Lou. every Sunday - or that's what they do anyway. You know she teaches.
I saw Lillian the 4H day and she sure looked pretty. Say Aunt Maytie is
wanting to enroll you in her sewing class again so she can have 6 - When will your school
be out? Tell Uncle John that Frank Mannel offered Dad $2800 cash for this farm - but
we weren't ready to sell to gim yet - Before he made the offer he took 4 pages to tell how
land had gone down and how one could get better farms in Indiana, Ill., and Ohio. So
don't know why he doesn't try there. Suspect G-mama wrote you about her nice day in
Miss Nellie's, Saturday and what a good dinner she had. Uncle Fletch and Aunt Maytie
dropped in unannounced Sunday and Dad said my quick dinner was as good as some of the long
ones. Dad is longing to get through stripping tobacco but it's a slow go by
himself. Bill helped some yesterday - You spoke of Dad's specks - Didn't I ever tell
you about getting glasses when I went to fair. They are only for reading - but I
wish I had the bi-focal lens - they sure help as I can hardly see to read or work with
them off. Going to have all my teeth pulled after Fair next Fall - as keep having
neuralgra - Mr. Bondurant said he thought I'd get the job back at the Fair, but if I do,
don't want Aunt Mago to surprise the wits out of me! We're taking Delineator and it
is has the best story in it - about to end - May cut it out sometime and send it to you -
Do you read much - I think the Sunday School paper that you send is so nice. Have
your other bloomers made - will mail them when I get some cash - how about petticoats -
Did the bloomers fit - Dad enjoys your letters - so always mention him - I'm sure glad you
get to go to church - to make up for me not going -
With just lots of love, Mama
Maybe late March 1931.
Tuesday morn -
Dear Jessie:
I'm not enjoying this cold weather one bit - you see we took bed down
and carpet up in my room for the party - then Son sent 108 white leghorn chicks the next
week - it was so cool we put them in that room - thinking for only a short time - and are
still keeping them in there - we built a pen around the drum stoves - spread an old sheet
down - and put fresh paper & litter over that every morn - bring in sod and sand &
the chicks are happy - have 102 and they are 2 weeks old today - Can't say we enjoy the
kitchen these cool days.
Well Miss Alcie came in so am not getting much writing done - she went
to Lou. Sat. afternoon and came back Sun. and was relating her experience and how much
company they had - They sure are fixing up up there - have cleared all out between house
& road - she has a pretty yard - they built a meat house -
Yesterday afternoon Mary & I went to B-burg with Aunt Lena,
Cornelia & W.A. Jr - Uncle Allen had gone with John Williams: it was first day of
court and there was a Farm Bureau meeting - Well Uncle Allen made a nice speech,
introducing the speaker - a State man who spoke 1 1/2 hrs - everybody got good & tired
-
So when Uncle A. got up to talk again and invite "jiners" to
the Farm Bureau everybody was tired & anxious to get home - so they began leaving
while he was talking - he stood it as long as he could - then lit loose and tore his own
pants considerably - it was funny but I didn't listen as I wanted to get out and talk.
Dr. Ridenour told me that the Lincoln Highway Committee made a long trip Sat.
beginning at B-burg - on to Cloverport across the river to Lincoln City & several
places in Indiana then to Corydon Ind. & home - They have all admitted that B-burg has
the proof - tho of course there's lots of red tape yet - Did Aunt Carra D. know that
Clarence Sipes was buried last Wednesday - had T.B. for some time - We're getting anxious
to see you home - tho am afraid you'll soon be wanting to see Indiana again - am sure glad
you're finding a way to get home - Aunt Maytie was called back to Ella V's Sunday night
& went with them to Sun. yesterday - going to operate in Ella V. - Mrs. Sam Bunger is
doing very well after her operation - Tell Carra D. we're wanting them all to come to Ky.
this summer -Tell Uncle Winfield that Dad is proud of the way his Korean lespedeza is
coming up - had a patch last year between branch & Tony's House Love to all Mama
Probably April 1931
Monday
Dear J.V.-
What did you do yesterday - such a pretty day - G.ma was here & Aunt
Lena's folks in afternoon - Annie Lee had a pretty wedding day-
Ordered Mary goods from Sears Thursday & it came Saturday - have
cut out cape & skirt this a.m. - got tan - brown beret & ordered brown shoes for
her Friday also ordered shoes for Bill - imagine they'll come today -
Did you think I wanted too much - little boys' sweater & socks - I
keep on seeing them on sale at Bacon's & Herman Strauss - & sure want the narrow
dark blue grograin ribbon - try to fix my hat - I get so disgusted trying to pull a hat in
my dome that isn't large enough - Also want enough of that inside belting for Mary's skirt
- about 25 inches I imagine (and fly swatter) and have package mailed from store - be
easier for you - Walt may need money before last of month but not much as he is making
some in R.F.C. work - get little boys 32 & 34 vest or both 34 sweater -
Mary isn't wanting to join church Sunday before so many people but Bill
will. Do hope it won't rain - you come on Morning train (it's 77cents) & wait
there with Mr. Hawes til we come along - I'm going to take part of dinner & spread it
with Mrs. Walten - Dad says weather will be bad but we hope not -
I hope you're feeling rested & have regained the 4 lbs - Only had
one card from Rena - Say you buy yourself a blouse - I see they're $1 - besides you need
more goods to make this darted stuff into a dress - would love you see your shoes -
Undated, Maybe early May 1931? May 2, 9 or 16?
o Mary seems to be away? See June 24th letter that says Mary went to Lexington on
a trip.
o Apparently Flaherty is the next location for shopping for things not available at
Burnette's store?
o Bill is doing the plowing the summer before his 12th birthday?
o Daisy? mother of little Lena?
o Lena and Ralph are Lena Drury and Ralph Stith? Doesn't seem to fit. Ralf was
same age as Walter, Jr.
o Marie H. and Christine C.?
o Miss Nellie?
o Miss Zel was Miss Zell Moreman, of Big Spring
o Mattie Bliss?
o Mrs. Beunger or Bunger?
- Elizabeth & Eula F. daughters of Mrs. Bunger?
o Verna
o Florence Applegate
o Lincoln road? maybe highway 60?
o Judge Dehaven Moorman
Friday -
Dear Jessie & Maggie: Was so glad to hear from you too - I seem to be not doing
much writing - as owe letters to everybody - mailing boxes seems to be my main job as
today am sending Mary a new print - one she bought two or three weeks ago and she wrote
this week that she was needing it badly - Rena Lou went to Louisville last Sunday
afternoon (with some of Miss Alcie's company) and I thought - well I can't do a think
without any girls - then Jack went back to Grandmama's Monday night - I was telling
someone that when Jack was gone there was no one to wipe dishes - the next morning Jimmy
washed his hands and said give me the dish towel - and he was pretty good at it - well I
got busy and made a print for myself - that Walter Jr. gave me Xmas - a blouse for Jimmy -
Mary's dress - Dad helped me wash - as Bill does the plowing - and I ironed this morning.
Going to take the boys to Flaherty this afternoon to get their Sunday shoes - they
need Monday ones too - In the morning - Sat. - we'll have our 4H Club meeting - Some of
Daisy's foolishness - if I might say - The afternoon officers were elected she was
slightly off - due to Little Lena not being elected Pres. I suppose - anyway when time for
meeting was discussed - she said Sat. so Lena & Ralph could be there - knowing well
Marie H. & Christine C. had to go to catechism (that's wrong I know) - so I said it
will have to be Sat. morn - & Miss Nellie said 9:30 - we are not imagining a Burnett
getting there by then - their school will soon be out & they could have hurried from
school in afternoon - Oh well one pulls one way and one the other in anything.
Miss Zel has sure aroused my curiosity - She called me yesterday &
told me & Dad not to make other plans for Sunday - then called this morn & told me
to be ready to move Saturday when mail got here - as she was writing me - the only thing I
can think of would be a surprise birthday dinner for Mr. Jim.
Guess Miss Lad wrote you what a nice afternoon we had at Mattie Bliss -
so many good articles read - well Maggie I'd sorely be tempted to go over to the houses
and ask the folks just to let me see what they looked like - I can imagine how lonesome
you get - as I'd have those pangs when I lived at Cross Lanes. Wouldn't it be well
for Jessie or you to inquire of the teachers or trustees or somebody about her coming back
next year - or do you think you could go through with it again - She seems to be dong well
in that school that I'd love to see her graduate there - Yes she can stay awhile after
school - long enough for us to get her the ways & means to come home - when I asked
Walter if he wasn't going he said "Who said" - Thought I'd finish - but seems
not to be able to - Jessie I made Rena the cutest short coat and beret out of her old
Spring coat - it had a plaid back & we used that side- She wrote me it was a
"knock-out" if you know what that is - When I relined your winter coat I thought
it so pretty on wrong side & wondered why it couldn't be cut short & a beret made
too - if you have the piece mail it to me & I'll make it. I've been wanting a
new dress badly so I'm talking to Mrs. Beunger this morn. she said she couldn't get
Elizabeth & Eula F. a dress made (Daisy being sick) so I volunteered the job - thought
I'd earn me a little dough if possible - Rena Lou is the only one who has any and she has
spent more than she intended - and has no new clothes - Verna wrote & asked her to
spend a week up there - tho I rather look for her back today - She'll go to Bowling Green
next Saturday. She heard no more about school - tho Florence Applegate did marry -
Maggie we keep hearing we're going to get Lincoln road - when we do - come back to you
& I can run a hot dog stand - it really will be a place for men to get work. And I
want to board the road workers! I heard that Judge Dehaven Moorman had said that
Meade had all the proof and they were willing to give in - It will have to be presented to
Congress - Time for mail & for dinner too - Love Ruth
I think M. A. had quite a birthday - Hope you can use the dresses - there's a belt for
the brown one - make a jumper out of it - why not - Did the hat fit at all - I get to
wondering how John Scott is and how big he is -
Tell John it sure made us all weep to see Prof. Mallery morn -
especially will we miss his car on Saturday night -
Jessie - I sent for a booklet - Presidents & Their Wives - can't
find it now - but shall sent it to you & you cut the Pres. out if you want - &
save the booklet for me -
(Probably early June 1931)
Monday Morn.
Dear Jessie,
Was kinda worried over not hearing from you - buy Grandma called yesterday and said Aunt
Mag had heard from Fanny and you all having a big day yesterday - I want to hear if you
got the 2.00 I sent in a letter - also if your side was better. Some one told me the
other day that one of the Jordan girls (Mrs. Sam Bengler's sister) had a pain in her side
for years and when she taught school and earned money she was operated on. However
I'm hoping you're feeling better. Had kind of a bad dream about you the other night
so couldn't get you off my mind - Mary got back last night - She spent Sat. and Sun. with
Cousin Nel and Cousin Tom - They gave her a dollar and she and Cornelia won $3 - Tho have
to give half to the boys - It only made her trip cost us 60 cents so I'm sure glad she got
to go - She said Cornelia had the time of her young life. Well no rain yet for us -
sure scattered showers - But to go back to last week. Lena Burnett and Morris Stith
won State Championship as healthiest boy and girl and will get to go to Chicago in
November and all expenses paid - Their pictures were in Courier Journal but I let Bertha
Bandy take it home - sure sorry I didn't save it for you - Rena Lou hasn't been off place
except for her Sunday Evening drive with the Ritchie - One night last week when Bill was
sick and I had a lot of work about the chickens up drove Edwin Hook - Fanny and Mattie and
stayed for supper - strawberry shortcake and fried ham has been my guest meal for last two
weeks - To go back to Lena Burnett - we were telling Miss Alice about Lena getting the
State Health prize and she said - That's nothing - My Gracie got a prize in Detroit and
didn't they pin a blue ribbon on my Dolphie Lee at the picnic at Sulphur Well last summer
- Uncle Winfield may know Dolph Huffines and the ribbon was pinned to show he had paid to
dance all day! - Hope the field chicken supper the P.J.A.'s had at John William's Sat.
night was a success - it was sure kept a secret - Well sure hope I hear from you today or
tomorrow - love Mama
Haven't you got a dollar in the bank - if so you can use it for shoes too -
Guston Ky
June 11 - 1931
Dear Jessie:
Sure enjoyed your nice newsy letter yesterday and am glad you are so
pleasantly situated - am in hopes you and Jene Carroll can make it fine - and I know
you've looked after children well enough to be up on the job - We've been very much
interested in the child clinics being held over the county - You know I met the woman
doctor who is holding the clinics at Mrs. Walton's and she is sure fine - she examined
Bill, Jack & Jim and found quite a bit that needed to be done to them.
Well last week was full to running over. Such a nice picnic at
Sulphur Well - so many there - Lillian Lusk was there - she thought you'd come - (I led
the singing again - & toothless!) Then I sewed for Mary one day - and Sat. we were
busy cooking for Sat. night and Sunday - however it rained Sunday & my company didn't
come - we had quite a big to-do at Hall School Sat. night - served cake & lemonade -
Had several prominent speakers - Well I rested a little sure - was so run down - & got
Bill's & Mary's clothes together late in afternoon - Had to get them over to Garrett
by 7 o'clock Monday morning. They were sure excited over going - Bill got to ride in
Rumble seat in Mr. Hopper's car - Mr. H. wanted Mary to stay in dormitory with other girls
- but we didn't have the $6.00 - Had a card from her yesterday that Aunt Anne paid the $6
- & she & Margaret Powell (B-burg) were in a room together - at Patterson Hall -
one of the largest buildings at University - Bill stays with Son at night - I think it's
great - You see even if we are poor as Job's turkey - my children get to do & go more
than other children - Sure helps you all I think - Say Rena sent me goods to make her two
dresses - a pink print & this pique - I cut the pique one out by a new sport pattern
she sent - but she wrote & said she wasn't satisfied with the green color & would
you buy it - 3 yds at 65 = $1.95 - If you want it I'll make it some larger for you - have
plenty of goods & I believe you need it - you can tell me what to do -
This week I worked in cherries Tuesday - canned 10 qts - Then yesterday
- Wednesday - took Miss Lad & Aunt Mag down to spend day with Mrs. Bud Price- We sure
enjoyed her lovely home and dinner - and had a fine day tho I thought I was too busy to go
- Aunt Mag & Miss Lad spent night and are still here - are going to see Blanche Drury
after dinner - and on home - So I'm sorta going easy - I have sure felt bum - Have another
date for Tuesday - to Take Miss Zel. down to Cousin Mary Ashcraft's. My family is
sure small - still there's lots to do - I guess you enjoy all the nice house &
luxuries as I enjoy them when I'm at Cousin Nell's - Maybe we'll have those things someday
or maybe you'll have them!
Just lots of love,
Mama
June 18, 1931 (Letter wasn't dated but seems to go with envelope dated June 18, 1931. This was a Thursday. Envelope was addressed to Miss Jessie Virginia Scott, 3481, Birchwood Ave, Inianapolis Indiana.)
o Apparently Mary and Bill had been to Lexington to visit their brother Walter C. Scott
Thursday
Dear Jessie,
Have been trying to make Rena a dress and get it mailed today - but here at 11 o'clock am
seeing it's impossible. Was glad to hear from you this week - Why don't you write to
Reid - I wouldn't be going about with the boys if I were you - you get diversions don't
you - and see plenty going on without going for from home. I know you are enjoying
the nice home and good eats - so am expecting to hear you are fattening - Mary and Bill
had a wonderful trip - tho were some tired when they got home Sunday Night - Were gone a
whole week - Mary says she's intending to write you and Rena and tell you all about it -
Rena wants you to write her - 1268 Kentucky St - Bowling Green - not Lexington as I put in
a letter I sent her last week - We went to church at Big Spring Sunday to Miss Zel's to
dinner - then Tuesday Miss Zel and I went down to Cousin Mary Ashcraft's and spent day -
Miss Z. had never ridden with a woman driver and didn't have much confidence in me - We
heard Pres. Hoover and Ex. Pres. Coolidge speack at Marion Ohio - and I sure enjoyed it -
Yesterday I went on the search of Rena a school - took Mary , Jack and Jim - travelled
from Hynes School down to where Rena taught last year - 65 miles in all - tired - well I
sure am - but hate to tell you that ever time I write - Didn't have much luck about school
- Am going to make your dress first of next week - Mary said she saw girls wearing black
and white sport shoes - leather heels - I hope you can find some - Rena wrote about them
too - Mary is cooking dinner - greens - peas - clabber cheese - cherry pie - Jimmy backed
against stove Sat. night when baithing and liked to have burned his rear off - Dad says
were having fried ham - he's getting along very well - buy I'm glad he can't see the place
- Say Dad was pleased with the card - I tacked it up below mantle in front room - Mail
time - You must write Reid, Aunts Mago and Carra D - Hope you are feeling fine and happy -
love,
Mama
June 24
From: Mrs. Walter Scott, Guston Ky
To: Miss Jessie V. Scott, 3481 Birchwood Ave., Indianapolis, Indiana
Brandenburg, Jun 24, 5 p.m., 1931
Postage 2c
Guston, Ky
June 24, 1931
Dear Jessie,
Was so glad to hear from you yesterday and shall try and write while
I'm waiting for Bill and Mary to eat breakfast and before I get so tired - however have
kinda caught up lately - and do not feel quite so tired - This is a hot, nasty morning -
however we sure enjoyed the rain yesterday as we're needing it badly - We didn't get a
rain Sunday - tho it was cloudy. We stayed at home Sunday - went to Aunt Lena's late
in the afternoon - they were not at home - so we went on down to Mrs. Payne's where so
many were - Lillian is home with her baby and looks so badly - Blanche D. is still down
with her baby - been down about 3 weeks. She reminds me of Aunt Wivie with her baby
- is so helpless with it - and it's gotten the best of her - keeps her stepping every
minute - Blanche D., Aunt Wivie, Miss Nannie, Aunt Mago - are all the victims of too bossy
mothers - I think - They are not able to think for themselves - Wonder what others think
of my daughters - Well Mary is running me coocoo (don't know how to spell it) - Had
Frances B. over last week for night - so Frances made a date for them for Sunday night - a
Ritchie Boy and one of Albert Shacklette's young brothers - went to Camp Knox to a show -
I thought once would do - but no - yesterday Frances told Mary they would repeat the
performances - makes me sick at stomach - I've been trying to keep Mary interested in
other things - & I think that is so tacky - Of course it's the only aim Mrs. B. has
for her girls. After Mary went to Lex. she wants to take a course in Home Economics
- and I hope she can. Also am sorry you didn't take that in place of the business
course - Hope Reid finally gets to Indianapolis - Say Aunt Mago is howling because you do
not write to her - write her - then get cards send Grandma & Aunt Maytie - Grandma
keeps wanting Mary to write Mary Lad about her trip - but I'm hoping she'll finally be
inspired to write you & Rena all about it. Say I think I'll mail you the dress
today - worked on it yesterday - had I noticed how complicated the skirt was - think I'd
made it plainer - and isn't the dress heavy - Rena bought the pattern but I do not think
it would look nice on her - too much to skirt - hope you like it & get lots of good
out of it - it will wash. Do you feel like your dresses look well enough - have you
worn the Cousin Nell dress - Say can't you find a Methodist church to go to on Sunday
night. Imagine you can't get off Sun. Morn. but if you can - why don't you go to
Sunday School - I know you are enjoying all the conveniences & good eats - and I think
that is fine - The little boys went to G-ma's last night - Dad enjoyed his card so much -
& we weren't aware it wasn't the right time - Hoping to hear from you soon - Just lots
of love - Mama
Hope you can see Minnie & Laura Nell - I think they are wonderful - Wish you could see the world as they are getting to - learn all you can from them -
(Undated, but was July 3, 1931. July 3 was on Friday and July 4th was on Saturday that year. JBS)
o Hardins had been there Sunday June 28, 1931
o Aunt Fan? Is Aunt Fan associated with Reid?
o Reid is boy friend Lewis Reid Boohr, Darlington Ind.
o "fattening" Looks like Ma thinks Jessie is too thin
o Shaunting dress?
o Mr. Hopper is county agent
o Aunt Mabel is Mabel Stith married Dr. Sam Henry Stith?
o Aunt Lena is Lena Drury married William Allen Stith (Uncle Allen), brother to Sam Henry.
They lived on farm that bordered Scott farm to north across Stith Valley.
- Ralph is son of Aunt Lena and Uncle Allen
o Mr. Nall? died? Wife was Miss Lydia? Carl & Myrtle their daughter
or son?
o Allens?
o Apparently Billy is son Bill (going to be 14 in October, 1931) is going to store every
Friday for Ma. (Burnette's?)
o Mr. and Mrs. Whitworth?
o Son is Walter C. Scott just finishing school at University of Kentucky
o G-ma's is Granny Scott who lives at the adjoining farm to the west of the Scott's farm.
There is a very nice all weather spring that supplied water for her homestead.
Friday morn -
Dear Jessie -
Have been trying all of this hot morning to answer your letter received
yesterday. Sure glad you are getting along so well - it's nice you got to go to Aunt
Fan's - and to see Reid! As to enjoying the parks - you take after your ma - I used
to rather ride a merry-go-round than to eat - Looks as if you ought to be fattening - It
would sure be fine if you could go to school there - I want Mary to go to B-burg and she
doesn't want to - Am not making plans til the time draws nearer - If they'd keep you for
what you would do and maybe pin money - for stamps - tablets - pencils etc.
Are you going to be able to get a coat? Hope you've gotten some oxfords & a
white Panama - then if you could find some goods to make up by the same pattern - I could
make it - 2 3/4 yds 36 in - & 1/4 yd of contrast - or maybe 1/3 yd - Imagine you'd
need another cool dress - do you seem to have enough - have your feet hurt any -
Mary made her shantung dress by that pattern - & it's pretty - her
4H dress you know - Rena sent her some white linen sandals & socks to wear to picnic -
Mary went with Mr. Hopper to B-burg Wed. to stay with Aunt Mabel the 4th & get to go
to picnic - She was wanting to earn a little money toward getting her a hat - I wouldn't
spare her - but am letting things go - we washed & it's too hot to iron - Wednesday I
took children right after dinner over to Aunt Lena's to take whooping cough serum - Uncle
Sam was out to see Ralph who has tonsillitis - well I fainted - was tired & got too
hot - recuperated & had to go to 4H club - didn't feel very peppy - my head hurts now
when I am in kitchen long - So yesterday & today got my dinner done by 8 o'clock - Our
garden is nice but we sure need rain.
Have gotten several showers all around us - Sure thought I told you of
Mr. Nall - must have told somebody else twice - Miss Lydia has gone to Lou. to stay with
Carl & Myrtle - she had a sale last Sat - it was so hot - but lots there & I had
lots of fun bidding on stuff & Dad said I got bargains too - cook vessels - drum stove
etc. etc.
We had invited Allens out for 4th but their baby has whooping cough -
would like company but don't feel equal to it - had Billy get lemons, bananas, ice &
bread for tomorrow - he goes every Friday -
Last Sunday had Mr. & Mrs. Whitworth - Irby Hardin & family - even Mr. Guy.
I fixed picnic dinner & we ate it at G-ma's Spring - then men & children went in
car -
Son has a job beginning 15th of August - Asst. Co Agent - $100 month
& 5c mile to run car - he'll be home 2 weeks before then - looking for Rena home too -
will you get to come - Dad thinks he has a good crop & the cows are doing fine too -
Little boys sorta slow over serum - lots of love Mama
July 9, 1931. This was the thursday after July 4th.
Thursday Noon
o Mary was 14 on 14 July 1931
o G-ma is Adelissa Louisa Hardaway Scott, Miss Laddy Scott
o Picnic was probably July 4th
Not dated, but probably in early July 1931
Thursday Noon
Dear Jessie,
Here I am doing what I had sworn off to do - not wait til I was tired to write. But
we've done a big washing this morning - I had the rest of my teeth pulled Monday - Am sure
glad the job is done - even if I am quite disfigured - feel like with having that mess out
- that I might get to feel better. Son will be home the 2 weeks preceeding Aug. 15th
- I'll be in camp Aug 3 to 7 - So maybe you'd better be home the next week - Imagine Rena
will be too - she hasn't a school yet - I sure hope the plan to stay there and go to
school will materialize - It would sure be fine for you. Did Reid ever come - I am
sure glad you are gaining - can't you put pieces in each side of your new petticoat -
Would love to see your nice shoes - wish you could wear my brown ones - they hurt my
back! We didn't go to picnic - ordered ice, bananas, lemons, and bread - made ice
cream 3 times - G-ma is over today - Mail time - but thought I'd write you a
line anyway - Mary said she wants a pair of mesh stockings - cotton ones - for birthday -
however you'd better hold tight to money - Just lots of love, Mama
Jul 28, 1931
Postmark:
Brandenburg, July 29, 5 p.m., 1931, KY.
From: Mrs. Walter Scott, Guston, Ky
To: Miss Jessie Virginia Scott
3481 Birchwood Ave
Indianapolis Indiana
Postage: 2 cents
Guston, Ky
July 28, 1931
My dear Jessie:
We were disappointed not to see you this week - but you must make the
best of it - Son says when he gets a new car he can run up to see you - and Rena says
she'll come too.
It is so dry and dusty here. Garden's drying up and yards & flowers
needing rain badly. So if you were here you could more appreciate the things you are
having - I'm glad Mrs. Stith can depend on you right now - I know Jane C. needs you -
Think what a difference of when you were born - I couldn't get any help down on Papa's
farm - You arrived one dark rainy night 2 1/2 hours before the Doctor did. I was so
afraid that the old woman who was there wasn't clean enough - that when she & Dr. left
I had Dad hold me up and Uncle Jesse hold you and I gave you a thorough inspection - The
Doctor or old woman neither saw to your eyes. So had Dad used boric acid - well we
made it alright - The third day I had wash stand pulled up to my bed and I bathed you -
did that from then on - Always did wish I could go to hospital at that time.
Well Rena and I took a hot dusty trip yesterday and got her a school
down near where she taught last year - She'll begin Aug. 3rd.
If you stay in Indianapolis maybe she can come up for week end this
Fall. Have you talked to them about staying there and going to school - If you could
just work for your board I would be glad. Well if Reid is short of cash it's no more
than everybody else is - everyone seems in the same boat here. But back to school -
wouldn't your New Ross Credits be accepted alright there - You know I want you to finish
High School - Have you any other plans? Write me what you meant in the other letter
- the Post Script?
Am going to take Mary, Bill & Jack with me to camp & Rena
starts to school. Jimmy will stay with Grandma & Dad & Son back. Son
has his roadster here - he & Rena spent week end at Uncle Sam's - Aunt Lily, Miss Tula
Meador & Grandma spent weekend here - also had Jack some birthday company - Alex &
John Moorman - Mary and Bill went with Uncle F. & Aunt Maytie to Sulphur Well - all
this happened Sunday - Say I see no reason why you can't all be home Christmas - Maybe you
could bring Reid.
Now I hope you're over your homesick spell - for you're a lucky girl I
think - Rena and Walter both said they'd write you - and we all think of you - Of course
I'm run down after doing so much - Do wish we could get a rain - With just lots of love
Mama
Envelope
(From: Mrs. Walter Scott, Guston, Ky
To: Miss Jessie Virginia Scott, 3481 Birchwood Ave, Indianapolis, Indiana
Guston, KY, August 14 p.m. 1931) Aug 14 was on a
Friday
Letter in envelope was from Granny Scott (Adelissa Louisa Hardaway Scott):
Thursday A.M.
My Dear Jessie
I was so glad to get your nice letter and to know that the new baby had
arrived hope the mother and baby are both doing all right. I know you have been lots
of help looking after the little girl.
I think it quite nice that you and Mary are planning to go to School at
B-burg. But I know the Indiana folk will miss you. I know you will enjoy light
house keeping you are old enough and settled enough to be foreman. And you being a Senior
of course will lend dignity to the whole affair. Mary is a perfectly normal 14 year
old girl, full of pep and fun and pranks and a good Scout. And I know you with your experience
will know when and where to apply Breaks or offer the Throttle as Situation
demands.
(That sounds like preaching doesn't it)
But I know you will understand.
I went to Mama's Monday afternoon and spent the night and all day
Tuesday and Tuesday night. Tuesday A.M. Mama went with some other ladies to
Irvington to spend the day. And Buddy and Daddy went to Coydon to the Fair and on to
Louisville and back to B-burg for Mama.
Mary and I were all alone and we had such a good time and did lots of
work too. The first thing she took Mack and the buggy and went to Mr. Burnett's for
me. And then we did the biggest ironing and ended the day with a big water fight and
a big watermelon. And had a good supper for the folks when they got home. They
had all had such a good day. You know Mama hasn't been a bit well. But is lots
better now. She just needs a good rest.
That Buddy of yours is just the finest chap and something to be very
proud of. He is leaving today, but will not be so far away but what he can come home
for a visit once in a while.
Rena Lou has had a pretty hard struggle, but seems like she always
succeeds anyway. She wears mighty pretty clothes and is able to pay for her
schooling. And that certainly means a lot. And you will soon be
self-supporting too. You have already helped a lot. Mary said you spoke of
going to see Aunt Carra D. before you come home. Be sure and go to see about Aunt
Mago too. She wouldn't ever get over it if you didn't.
Edgar's family came last Thursday and went back Monday. They had
a family reunion at Eva's fathers Sunday. I went with Aunt Mag's folks and had such
a good time. Cousin Zack and Cousin Laura Stith were there too.
I am real busy canning and making jell and sewing. Have two
dresses to make and I do lots of visiting along with the work. It has been so dry
until last week we had showers that freshened things quite a bit, but not enough to
increase the water supply any. It is misting again this a.m. and is real cool.
Try to hold on to the extra pounds you have gained. I want to see
how you look.
Good bye and hoping to see you soon,
Lovingly,
Grandmama
o Son is Walter C. Scott brother to Jessie
o Earl is probably Earl Wright son of Cousin Gil Wright?
o Peach orchard was on top of hill behind the house near the cemetery. (I can
remember there were still peaches there in the 1950s. JBS)
o Aunt C. D. was Carra Drury Frakes married Winfield Scott. They lived in Advance,
Indiana
o Aunt Mago was Margaret Eleanor Scott married John Witt. Jessie had been staying
with the Witts the past winter.
Aug 22, 1931 (Envelope addressed to Miss Jessie Virginia Scott, 3481 Birchwood Ave,
Indianapolis Indiana. It was a Saturday.) probably for following letter:
Late August 1931
Friday -
Dear Jessie,
I sure seem to have fallen flat in the letter writing - as you see -
But maybe when kids kinda simmer down - I won't feel so danncy - Son left yesterday -
however he hopes to not be so far away - that he can't run home on Sundays - Said he'd try
to come when you came home - Did anybody ever tell you he bought a Chevrolet Coupe - &
tried to give these kids their fill of going - but that only made them want to go more -
Jack & Jim are in school - but Bill has had such a sore finger he
couldn't go - Dad & Earl took him & had the finger laced yesterday -
Mary, Dad & I are working grapes today - Dad sold 12 bu. peaches
yesterday - gets 50c when they come after them -
I had my "ailment" over 2 weeks - then had "jump
offs" as Jimmy says - and am just run down it seems - can't get rested - was able tho
to make a nice visit to Irvington Tuesday - went with Cousin Mary Ashcraft to spend day at
her sister's - went to B-burg with Dad & Son as they went to Corydon Fair - Called on
Cousin Zach & Cousin Laura awhile - Say if you visit Aunt C. D. - spend an equal
number of days with Aunt Mago - also write her - G-mama complains about it. School
begins 1st Monday in Sept. So make your plans according -
We're all real glad you're coming home -
I'm simply too nervous to write -
Lots of love, Mama
Jim said he'd wait for his present -
Envelope:
From: Mrs. Walter Scott, Guston, Ky.
To: Miss Jessie V. Scott, Jamestown, Indiana, c/o H. W. Scott
Guston, KY, June 13, 1932, P.M.
Notes from Jack Scott, March 2000
Date: Sun, 18 Mar 2001
To: jscott@stithvalley.com
From: Jack Scott <jscott@kvnet.org>
Subject: Ma's letters
Jess,
My 9th birthday was on the 27th 1931 of July two days before the letter. Alex was Alex
Hager who lived in the old Hager house that still stands. John Moorman was John Moorman
Williams, Uncle Jake Williams's grandson and John Williams's son.The camp Ma mentioned
going to was 4-H camp. It was my first one and held at the Helm place in E-town across
from the hospital here. That's a story in itself. Reid was Jessie's boy friend, Reid
Booheir from Anchorage, Ky. That is another story also. Jessie stayed with a Stith cousin
in Indianopolis. Not one of Uncle Allen's family. Will find out the relationship. Jane C.
was the little girl Jesse stayed with when her mother who had the new baby.
Sulphur Wells was what Doe Run Inn was called until WW II. The old
wells were across the small stream that runs into the creek. Everyone always had to try
the water and be assured of it's health giving qualities. I had a hard time changing from
calling it Sulphur Wells. I still do sometimes. Remind me to tell you a story about
Walter's new car. It had a rumble seat
and was very "snazzy".
Jack
Date: Sun, 18 Mar 2001
To: jscott@stithvalley.com
From: Jack Scott <jscott@kvnet.org>
Subject: letters
IN THE ERA THE LETTERS WERE WRITTEN CLOTHES WERE A VERY VALUABLE COMMODOTY. No money was
available to purchase them so they were passed around among all the family, cousins
included. Aunt Maggo and Uncle John moved to a farm near Crawfordsville, Ind. They lived
on the farm and worked it. Times were so hard that Jessie
went up to work for them. She also took care of children for other family members. Aunt
Maggo's children were John Scott, Mary Lad and Margaret. I was mistaken about Reid being
from Ky. He was from the area in Indiana where the Witts lived. Marie must have been a
girl Walter met when he went to Indiana. I will check this out. Miss Zelma was Miss Zell
Moreman, of Big Spring. Her husband was an odd duck whom the local boys played tricks on.
Miss Zell was a Strother and had inheirited money. She had beautiful furniture and was of
the old school. They first lived an a farm on the left just before getting to Big Spring
and later moved to the old brick house on the left down by where the spring comes out. It
had been the old Dr. Strother home. I don't remember owning a new pair of pants till I was
in high school. We received packages of clothes from Arkansas relatives and others. We
were poor but didn't know it. The way of life seemed normal at that time. Walter was a big
help to the family after he finished college. Rena also helped. Everyone worked and
helped.
Jack
Notes from Rachel Hardin, March 2001
To: "Jess Scott" <jscott@StithValley.com>
Subject: Re: Feb 27 1931 letter
Date: Sun, 18 Mar 2001
Yesterday was my brother John's 87th birthday if he were living - St. Patrick's Day. So he
was only 17 when "they were still having trouble with John and Mamie". She was
Mamie Applegate and his girlfriend and Mom was scared to death they would run off and get
married. So the minute he graduated from high school, a few months after that letter was
written, they hustled him off to Aunt Frances (your aunt Harriet's mother) who at the time
was living in New York City (Staten Island) and there he stayed until fall when he went
directly to Lexington to school. I suppose the separation did the trick - the romance was
over by the time he ever got back to Brandenburg. Meantime he had a ball in NYC - saw Fred
Astaire and his sister Adele in a play or musical, etc. - all the sights. Mr. Hopper was
the county agent. Probably the first one and he started up all those 4-H clubs. Mom was a
leader for a sewing group or two and I know Cousin Ruth, Harold Stith mentioned, led a
club at Hall School. Rena Lou must have been teaching in Payneville and her friend was
probably Mrs. Monroe Allen. Her husband ran a garage in Payneville and his sons after him.
Monroe Allen was my Dad's first cousin. Mrs. Allen was Avadelle Greer formerly. They had
sons named Woodrow and Donald who were good looking and another whose name I can't
remember but Woody and Donald would have been Rena's age.
Cousin Beulah was Beulah Fontaine Hook, Uncle Jim's daughter. They lived where the Jenkins
funeral home is now located - just down the street from our house in a big house which
blew away in the tornado. Cousin Beulah is the one whose helper, Sank Mosely, raped
her and beat her so badly she later died. That was about 1938. Frances Stith was your
Uncle Arvin's daughter. They lived next to the Baptist church in Ekron. She was maybe
Mary's age or Mary Ladd's age. Her sister Mary Catherine may still live in that same
house, if she is still alive. Frances died a few years ago. She was a nurse, like
Elizabeth, and
very pretty and musical - could play the piano - like many of Aunt Hannah's children and
grandchildren. Frances lived in San Antonio and I think worked in an army hospital there
-maybe married an army guy and they were divorced. She had two sons I think.
Lillian may have been Lillian Lusk - about Jessie's age. No, I don't ever remember seeing
Aunt Diva. I think Cousin Ruth was
referring to a letter she had from Diva who had breast cancer but lived in Ark. She went
to Memphis for surgery and treatment and my Aunt Lois who lived in Memphis mentioned in
her diaries often keeping Diva's husband and little boy (Norman?) when they would be in
Memphis with her - while she was in hospital. Isn't it amazing how all those cousins
looked out after one another?
Rachel
From: "clarkerh"
To: "Jess Scott" jscott@StithValley.com
Subject: Re: More questions on the letters
Date: Wed, 21 Mar 2001
Yes, that was Uncle Jim, Cousin Ruth's father's brother. He was married to Louisa Foushee
(they pronounced it Lou-ees-a). Uncle Jim was very deaf and we could hear every word Aunt
Loueesa yelled at him. They lived in that house at the bottom of our hill - it was their
house. After Aunt Louisa died, Miss Beulah and her husband moved in to take care of Uncle
Jim. Prior to that, Miss Beulah and Mr. Hook lived over his hardware store down town as
most of the merchants in those days did! They were huge apartments and their back yards
went straight up from the back door.
From: "clarkerh"
To: "Jess Scott" <jscott@StithValley.com>
Subject: Re: Answers
Date: Mon, 26 Mar 2001
My Dad was born in Andyville or near there at the head of Dead Horse Hollow. It was rugged
terrain through there. However Dad's parents moved to Brandenburg right after he was born.
Rachel 8 Dec 1930
From: "clarkerh" <clarkerh@email.msn.com>
To: "Jess Scott" <jscott@StithValley.com>
Subject: Dec 8, 1930 letter
Date: Sat, 31 Mar 2001
I think Miss Alcie and Toni were tenants about whom Cousin Ruth wrote in her PAGE and I
suppose Gracie is one's daughter or both and Powell her boyfriend? Cousin Ruth probably
referred to Cousin Walter as Mr. Scott because that was what the tenants called him? Yes,
Mary was Ike Hicks' first wife, black-eyed, vivacious and cute. She died early (why?) and
he
married Nettie Neafus (her maiden name) - a widow, no children. She loved children and I
think the Hicks children loved her, called her Aunt Nettie like her nephews and nieces who
also loved her.
I don't know who Jena Lee was. Yes, it was probably Aunt Frances who sent the box.
All Mom's other sisters were having just about as hard times as Cousin Ruth. Aunt Frances
had a daughter, Barbara, who was probably Rena Lou's age and son Charlie, Jessie's age,
and I am sure she didn't save their clothes for Harriet who was much younger.
Did you notice Cousin Ruth wore a "boggan"? Another word our children would not
know - a knit tube shaped hat which I think was called toboggan. Doesn't it hurt to read
about what hard times they had those years? You can understand why people my age and older
are still Democrats. Roosevelt came in and did things to help. Not that everyone in KY at
that time wasn't a Democrat anyway. You have no idea how much better the farms began to
look after Roosevelt introduced some plans to pay for leaving a field fallow and I guess
tobacco prices went up when he put them on a limit - what is it called?
I have a friend who grew up near Rineyville on a farm under similar circumstances. She
went to work when she got out of high school for one of those Roosevelt programs - making
overalls in Elizabethtown. Her sister was a teacher there and friend of Rena Lou when Rena
lived there - both now deceased. My friend is about 82 or 83. She said she milked two or
three
cows before she went to school. Recently she told her grandchildren - for a class project
- what life was like back then. I don't know whether the grandchild had a tape recorder or
one of those cameras but her report went over so big in Lansing, each kid in class wrote
Mae a letter about it. Mae now lives in Battle Creek.
And my sister-in-law, Anne, who is 92 or older, had the same hard time in Gary Indiana
where her father worked in the steel mills. To this day I don't know how the old ladies
who lived around me made it. They had gardens, raised chickens, and they rented out rooms
of their houses. They could have lived on Easy Street with Social Security.
Rachel
From: "clarkerh"
To: "Jess Scott" <jscott@StithValley.com>
Subject: Re: another letter
Date: Wed, 21 Mar 2001
Mrs. B. may have been Mrs. John Burnett. They ran a store just to the right of Hall School
going from Scott farm. In those days I think it was the only store in miles around.
Joe Brown may have been Joe Brown Edelin (spelling?). I didn't know him but I remember the
name. Jack would probably remember. And the Sipes' - gosh there were lots of them. To save
me I can remember a big house but can't put it in a location - like to the right of the
Stith Valley road when you turn off 60.
I don't know who Ester Allen was. Could she have been an Allen from down where Rena Lou
was teaching - there were many more besides Monroe Allen.
Flat Rock was a one room school down in the Andyville area. In Lucille Seymore's book on
one-room schools she said it had 26 students in 1926. Andyville is a small settlement just
a few miles past Payneville on the road to Concordia and Rhodelia. I would have said west
but the map says north - toward the river. Since Rena Lou's address was Andyville, could
she have been teaching at Flat Rock?
Aren't you sorry you didn't ask more questions while people older than I were still
living? I just read a BIG book of Schlesinger's Memoirs and like all people who write
memoirs, he was sorry he didn't ask more questions. Also he mentioned several memories
clear in his mind which, when he checked the facts, didn't turn out to be true at all!!!
From: "clarkerh"
To: "Jess Scott" <jscott@StithValley.com>
Subject: Letter Early March 1931
Date: Mon, 26 Mar 2001
Jesss,
Was Jack any help to you identifying some of these people? What did he remember about
"Cousin" Beulah's demise?
I do now know who Burch man was - must have been one of Mary Grinnell's suitors she turned
down - possibly from the Stith Valley neighborhood? She was the daughter of Grinnell, the
Brandenburg pharmacist - very pretty - and a friend of Rena Lou. I think she once taught
at Hall and stayed with Cousin Ruth? Anyway Dorsey Allen courted her for years and they
did eventually get married - moved to I believe Danville where she still lives! Dorsey
Allen was Peewee Reese's uncle - Peewee of baseball fame. Mary had an older sister Rose
who never married and must now be in her late 90's. Dorsey and Mary Allen's son took her a
few years to Newport or Covington where he lives, put her in a retirement home and looks
after her.
Shell Shacklett was my Aunt Chelle - Nancy Butler's mother to whom you sent the CD. Her
name was Rachelle. Yes, she did study journalism at UK and on graduation went to New York
with some other girls where they all nearly starved. She was secretary to the Dean of
Women at UK and the Dean asked her if she would go for a year to Santa Domingo, Dominican
Republic, to tutor the children of an American family down there. She did and met Nancy's
father, a bachelor, who was manager of a branch bank there of Bank of Nova Scotia out of
Toronto.
Lena was probably Lena Burnett whose father was John that ran the store near Hall School.
I think she was Mary's age.
The only Lillian I can think of is Lillian Lusk who lived in Brandenburg.
I do not know who the man was who offered to buy the farm nor do I know any Miss Nellie
where Granny ate dinner. Son must have been your Dad off at UK?
Rachel
From: "clarkerh"
To: "Jess Scott" <jscott@StithValley.com>
Subject: PS
Date: Mon, 26 Mar 2001
Forgot two questions. I don't remember our having a fair at Brandenburg in my day. Could
Cousin Ruth have worked at the State Fair? What Mr. Bondurant - Alice's grandfather? He
had a big important State job under Happy Chandler - Highway Commissioner.
Yes, the Delineator was a magazine published way back in the 19th century maybe or at
least early 20th - similar to Ladies Home Journal with dress styles, recipes, etc. Mom got
a whole bunch or really old ones at Miss Beulah's house sale and I eventually brought them
here where Nancy Butler swooped them up. She volunteers some years at the Shaw Festival in
Niagara on the Lake and wanted them for the costumes - old styles of that day. I think she
made posters to hang in the theater lobbies or some use like that she put them to. Rachel
Some addresses on a sheet of paper. ( Looks like 1931. JBS)
| Mariella Hymes Crawfordsville, Ind. R#2 |
Laura Graves Advance, Ind. |
Lewis Reid Booher Darlington, Indiana R#2 |
| Jessie V. Scott Guston, Ky R#2 |
3481 Birchwood Ave. Indianapolis, Indiana R#1 |
Reid & Virginia |
| Evelyne Everson. New Ross, Ind. |