(Fragment 3)
It was small wonder that my father began walking down the road to Taycheedah to play cards with the men. He accused her of being solitary and none of the neighbors good enough to invite over. To tell the truth, that's the way it was. She was above them in education, had taught school and read every book she could. She even tried Christian Science, but it never quite came off.
[Editor's Note: With this fragment, it seems I have finally come to an end, because I cannot find, and may not have preserved, Polly's letters from the 1970's. My plan now is to re-arrange these extracts in chronological order and then, perhaps, find a way to publish them as a little book.]
December 1, 2013
November 28, 2013
Sleeping porch
(Fragent 2)
After about two years [at the sanatorium], when my mother learned how to make a place to sleep outdoors in the cold no matter what the weather, we all went back together again. Mother had a porch built so that a window of the house opened on the center of the bed. Early in the evening she would line her bed with hot water bottles and bricks. She knit herself warm caps and mittens and always made a joke when she went thru the window. There was a long-haired black hide that went on top, but I never knew the name of it.
After about two years [at the sanatorium], when my mother learned how to make a place to sleep outdoors in the cold no matter what the weather, we all went back together again. Mother had a porch built so that a window of the house opened on the center of the bed. Early in the evening she would line her bed with hot water bottles and bricks. She knit herself warm caps and mittens and always made a joke when she went thru the window. There was a long-haired black hide that went on top, but I never knew the name of it.
November 27, 2013
Breakup
(Final fragment 1)
[When Minnie went to the TB sanatorium, Polly went to live with her Aunt Olga] and my father gave my brother to his mother at Fond du Lac where her daughter Lois and husband Bill McWhorter lived.
[When Minnie went to the TB sanatorium, Polly went to live with her Aunt Olga] and my father gave my brother to his mother at Fond du Lac where her daughter Lois and husband Bill McWhorter lived.
November 25, 2013
Moral
(Lyndon 24)
So this is the life of one who had no steady influence to guide him and who had not enough ambition within himself to make something of himself.
So this is the life of one who had no steady influence to guide him and who had not enough ambition within himself to make something of himself.
November 23, 2013
Funeral
(Lyndon 23)
I think I went to the funeral alone. Daddy phoned and told me to keep my chin up and he'd be home as fast as he could; he had seen the papers. I recall there were some from Ripon ... [more from Fond du Lac]. The young man, very nice looking in a dark suit (cannot think of his name: A--? G--? (Gutreiter? perhaps) shook hands with me and spoke very well expressing his sympathy.
I think I went to the funeral alone. Daddy phoned and told me to keep my chin up and he'd be home as fast as he could; he had seen the papers. I recall there were some from Ripon ... [more from Fond du Lac]. The young man, very nice looking in a dark suit (cannot think of his name: A--? G--? (Gutreiter? perhaps) shook hands with me and spoke very well expressing his sympathy.
November 21, 2013
The accident
(Lyndon 22)
A storm blew up fast and the boat turned over. As I remember it, Lyn let the friend have the gasolene can to hang on to as Lyn was a fairly strong swimmer. But wearing a leather jacket etc. he hardly had a chance. We all felt so sorry for his dying fighting the water, but I mourned a life wasted.
A storm blew up fast and the boat turned over. As I remember it, Lyn let the friend have the gasolene can to hang on to as Lyn was a fairly strong swimmer. But wearing a leather jacket etc. he hardly had a chance. We all felt so sorry for his dying fighting the water, but I mourned a life wasted.
November 19, 2013
Circumstances
(Lyndon 21)
My father went on to say that Lyndon and a friend were working at a resort on Lake Winnebago (I think) [Beaver Dam, actually] and they had gone out in a small gasoline launch for fish on a very overcast day. Perhaps they were asked to do this to serve fish at the resort.
My father went on to say that Lyndon and a friend were working at a resort on Lake Winnebago (I think) [Beaver Dam, actually] and they had gone out in a small gasoline launch for fish on a very overcast day. Perhaps they were asked to do this to serve fish at the resort.
November 16, 2013
Downed
(Lyndon 20)
[In 1938] one morning quite early, about 7 -- I think we were living on the hill in Richland Center and Daddy was on one of his trips to Milwaukee -- the phone rang and it was my father. "Well," he said, so weary, "Lyndon is drowned." My heart sank.
[In 1938] one morning quite early, about 7 -- I think we were living on the hill in Richland Center and Daddy was on one of his trips to Milwaukee -- the phone rang and it was my father. "Well," he said, so weary, "Lyndon is drowned." My heart sank.
November 14, 2013
Interim
(Lyndon 19)
You can see there was no good stabilizing influence in his life. I think he worked different places, like factories, for a short spell.
You can see there was no good stabilizing influence in his life. I think he worked different places, like factories, for a short spell.
November 12, 2013
Graceless
(Lyndon 18)
Much later Lyndon and Grace broke up. He said her mother and their priest were against him because he was not Roman Catholic and kept hectoring her until she gave in. I got the impression the marriage was annulled. He felt bad about that.
Much later Lyndon and Grace broke up. He said her mother and their priest were against him because he was not Roman Catholic and kept hectoring her until she gave in. I got the impression the marriage was annulled. He felt bad about that.
November 10, 2013
Grace
(Lyndon 17)
Life went on.... On afternoon when we lived on Beaumont Avenue in Milwaukee [in 1930s] he drove up with a pretty nice tall dark haired girl, Grace [Egan]. Did he introduce her as his wife? Maybe. I could see they cared for each other.
Life went on.... On afternoon when we lived on Beaumont Avenue in Milwaukee [in 1930s] he drove up with a pretty nice tall dark haired girl, Grace [Egan]. Did he introduce her as his wife? Maybe. I could see they cared for each other.
November 7, 2013
Blank
(Lyndon 16)
I have been trying to think whether Lyndon came out to Green Lake when we did get married, but I can't remember him there at all.
I have been trying to think whether Lyndon came out to Green Lake when we did get married, but I can't remember him there at all.
November 5, 2013
What to do?
(Lyndon 15)
I recall a conversation we had alone one late afternoon. He said, "Well, I suppose you are going to marry Sir Kay?" I said yes, I supposed so. And asked what he was going to do. He spoke very sadly. Said he didn't know. He had no prospects, no talents, no education, no expectations. I remember feeling very sorry, and helpless.
I recall a conversation we had alone one late afternoon. He said, "Well, I suppose you are going to marry Sir Kay?" I said yes, I supposed so. And asked what he was going to do. He spoke very sadly. Said he didn't know. He had no prospects, no talents, no education, no expectations. I remember feeling very sorry, and helpless.
November 3, 2013
Bumming
(Lyndon 14)
Sometimes he would go on long trips with friends out West, bumming their way. My father was always so worried. But he always came back with lots to tell. And no money.
Sometimes he would go on long trips with friends out West, bumming their way. My father was always so worried. But he always came back with lots to tell. And no money.
November 2, 2013
His humor
(Lyndon 13)
One thing Lyndon loved was comedy in movies, slapstick. He would tell about it later and laugh heartily. He had for a friend a tall thin negro who was always falling down awkwardly or getting in funny situations, and Lyn loved to tell us about it and laugh until he nearly choked. I think I said he should be careful of choosing his friends, but he knew better than I what he wanted to do.
One thing Lyndon loved was comedy in movies, slapstick. He would tell about it later and laugh heartily. He had for a friend a tall thin negro who was always falling down awkwardly or getting in funny situations, and Lyn loved to tell us about it and laugh until he nearly choked. I think I said he should be careful of choosing his friends, but he knew better than I what he wanted to do.
October 31, 2013
Getting by
(Lyndon 12)
Lyndon never missed a class in school, but just got by. He never did any outside study at all. In high school one of his best subjects was art, all done in the classroom. He got to staying out nights with friends we didn't know.
Lyndon never missed a class in school, but just got by. He never did any outside study at all. In high school one of his best subjects was art, all done in the classroom. He got to staying out nights with friends we didn't know.
October 29, 2013
Free spirit
(Lyndon 11)
Lu never thought about it [i.e. education] at all. She wanted every one there when dinner was ready, tried to help us when we asked her, was ready to go to the park to swim, more than generous with handing out money for movies, ice cream, etc. In ways she was like a child herself. ...
Lu never thought about it [i.e. education] at all. She wanted every one there when dinner was ready, tried to help us when we asked her, was ready to go to the park to swim, more than generous with handing out money for movies, ice cream, etc. In ways she was like a child herself. ...
October 27, 2013
Backup
(Lyndon 10)
So you can see how it was. I had had my mother long enough to have been influenced by her ideals. I wanted to go to school. My father often told me I could go as long as I wanted, be a doctor, and he would back me up.
So you can see how it was. I had had my mother long enough to have been influenced by her ideals. I wanted to go to school. My father often told me I could go as long as I wanted, be a doctor, and he would back me up.
October 24, 2013
Lu
(Lyndon 9)
[After my mother died in 1919] my father married within the year to a woman [Lu] so opposite to my mother. She was healthy, used cosmetics, had about a fourth grade education, never thought about God, but did go for the right. She was good hearted, a hard worker, could now sew at all, could cook, no experience with kids.
[After my mother died in 1919] my father married within the year to a woman [Lu] so opposite to my mother. She was healthy, used cosmetics, had about a fourth grade education, never thought about God, but did go for the right. She was good hearted, a hard worker, could now sew at all, could cook, no experience with kids.
October 22, 2013
Pa & Ma Parsons
(Lyndon 8)
You can see where the discipline was seated in our family. My father liked above all harmony, love for each other, pride in achievement. My mother was for Truth, perfection, sticking it out, love of God, and of course she loved us too. But we often forgot that because she was stern and always demanding our best.
You can see where the discipline was seated in our family. My father liked above all harmony, love for each other, pride in achievement. My mother was for Truth, perfection, sticking it out, love of God, and of course she loved us too. But we often forgot that because she was stern and always demanding our best.
October 20, 2013
Potatoes
(Lyndon 7)
My mother had been a school teacher, had a great deal of determination and German drive, insisted on perfection. One time when she was sick, I got supper. My father said, "A good supper. The potatoes are fine and well mashed too." My mother said, "Yes, the potatoes are good but not well mashed. They are full of lumps." My father swore.
My mother had been a school teacher, had a great deal of determination and German drive, insisted on perfection. One time when she was sick, I got supper. My father said, "A good supper. The potatoes are fine and well mashed too." My mother said, "Yes, the potatoes are good but not well mashed. They are full of lumps." My father swore.
October 19, 2013
Explanation
(Lyndon 6)
So we grew up and went to country school. He was smart but not an excellent student. I was a sophomore in high school when my mother died. ... If she had lived, she would have been a good influence on Lyn and seen to it he had his lessons.
So we grew up and went to country school. He was smart but not an excellent student. I was a sophomore in high school when my mother died. ... If she had lived, she would have been a good influence on Lyn and seen to it he had his lessons.
October 17, 2013
Comfort
(Lyndon 5)
[When I tore up Lyndon's valentine] he let out a wail and my mother scolded me. My father asked, "What's wrong?" Mother said, "She tore up the only valentine the poor boy had!" My father said, "Well, doll -- it's hell to be the oldest."
[When I tore up Lyndon's valentine] he let out a wail and my mother scolded me. My father asked, "What's wrong?" Mother said, "She tore up the only valentine the poor boy had!" My father said, "Well, doll -- it's hell to be the oldest."
October 15, 2013
Broken heart
(Lyndon 4)
Another shameful time when we sat around the dining room table making valentines. We were cutting and pasting away and what he did to annoy me I cannot recall. But I grabbed his valentine and tore it up!
Another shameful time when we sat around the dining room table making valentines. We were cutting and pasting away and what he did to annoy me I cannot recall. But I grabbed his valentine and tore it up!
October 13, 2013
Bug off
(Lyndon 3)
We lived alone in the country and looking back I can say I am now ashamed of the way I treated him. I was playing with my doll family and he had nothing to do so followed me around. I would blow up at him and tell him to play elsewhere. Isn't it strange miserable actions often stay with us all our lives?
We lived alone in the country and looking back I can say I am now ashamed of the way I treated him. I was playing with my doll family and he had nothing to do so followed me around. I would blow up at him and tell him to play elsewhere. Isn't it strange miserable actions often stay with us all our lives?
October 12, 2013
Lyndon
(Lyndon 2)
Lyndon was about half my age and was born [1911] in Green Lake, I believe, when we lived on the Victor F. Lawson estate. He was healthy, medium straight brown hair with blue eyes, rather slim.
Lyndon was about half my age and was born [1911] in Green Lake, I believe, when we lived on the Victor F. Lawson estate. He was healthy, medium straight brown hair with blue eyes, rather slim.
October 10, 2013
I'll try
(Lyndon 1)
[Polly's memoir of her brother, written in July 1980.] I will try to write a few words about my only brother, Lyndon Ellman Parsons, but not factual as you know my memory is not that good. But since you inquired, I'll try. One day in our study in the vicinity of the record collection I came across a newspaper account of his death. I looked again, just now, without finding it, but if ever I do, you will be the one I'll send it to. [It did turn up.]
[Polly's memoir of her brother, written in July 1980.] I will try to write a few words about my only brother, Lyndon Ellman Parsons, but not factual as you know my memory is not that good. But since you inquired, I'll try. One day in our study in the vicinity of the record collection I came across a newspaper account of his death. I looked again, just now, without finding it, but if ever I do, you will be the one I'll send it to. [It did turn up.]
October 8, 2013
Aftermath
(Dogs 43)
At home [after the chase] my husband was waiting lunch too, and wondered at finding everything laid out and no sign of life in the place. I have forgotten lunch and the conversation, but I do recall the long sessions of combing the burrs out of that dog's air.
At home [after the chase] my husband was waiting lunch too, and wondered at finding everything laid out and no sign of life in the place. I have forgotten lunch and the conversation, but I do recall the long sessions of combing the burrs out of that dog's air.
October 7, 2013
Merry chase
(Dogs 42)
[Chasing runaway Dee] I got ahead of him and he ran back up Williams' drive -- and I after him. Heading west he went thru a field and I went rightn his heels. He went over a wall; I went over the wall. By this time it was noon and people were coming home for lunch. One man, sizing up the situation, stopped, opened his car door, whistled, and Dee jumped in. "Oh, thank you!" I said gratefully, snapping the leash on his collar. "Works every time," he smile
[Chasing runaway Dee] I got ahead of him and he ran back up Williams' drive -- and I after him. Heading west he went thru a field and I went rightn his heels. He went over a wall; I went over the wall. By this time it was noon and people were coming home for lunch. One man, sizing up the situation, stopped, opened his car door, whistled, and Dee jumped in. "Oh, thank you!" I said gratefully, snapping the leash on his collar. "Works every time," he smile
October 6, 2013
Outcast
(Dogs 41) Of course he ran away now and then, but I'll never forget the worst time. I had spanked him for wetting on the kitchen floor and dropped him outside. At once he left home and trotted up the road. When I saw this, I grabbed his leash and hurried after him. He would have nothing to do with me.
October 3, 2013
On cue
(Dogs 40)
One day when I was having trouble with a dress pattern, thinking out loud to my self to clear things up: "Here is A, the front -- here's B and C -- but where is D?" I looked up and here he came trotting in!
One day when I was having trouble with a dress pattern, thinking out loud to my self to clear things up: "Here is A, the front -- here's B and C -- but where is D?" I looked up and here he came trotting in!
October 1, 2013
On patrol
(Dogs 38)
When Mr. Dee first got the hang of our house, which is long with wide window sills, he started to patrol it. Sitting in one window, he would peer thru his long eyebrows until he saw someone going by, a cat on the hill, not country cars, then he would give the alarm, running the length of the house, jumping on each window sill as he went. After a few weeks of this, I decided this was too hard on the paint as well as the ears and got thru to him it wasn't wanted.
When Mr. Dee first got the hang of our house, which is long with wide window sills, he started to patrol it. Sitting in one window, he would peer thru his long eyebrows until he saw someone going by, a cat on the hill, not country cars, then he would give the alarm, running the length of the house, jumping on each window sill as he went. After a few weeks of this, I decided this was too hard on the paint as well as the ears and got thru to him it wasn't wanted.
September 28, 2013
Scotch and lively
(Dogs 37)
The book goes on to say the Cairn is as "Scotch as whiskey" and "lively as corn in a popper." More than that, he has a great heart and stout courage, is rugged and studry. Ours is also very independent and a character.r
The book goes on to say the Cairn is as "Scotch as whiskey" and "lively as corn in a popper." More than that, he has a great heart and stout courage, is rugged and studry. Ours is also very independent and a character.r
September 26, 2013
Short-haired Skye
(Dogs 36)
My dog book says until 1909 the Cairn was called a "Short-haired Skye" -- probably from the Isle of Skye, or Scotland mainland. Going back 300 years he is one of the oldest British working terriers. "Cairn" means "a heap of stones," meaning that for hundreds of years Scottish lairds kept a pack of these dogs to rout out fox, badgers, rats, otters from rocky places to keep them from destroying flocks of sheeep and poultry. The dogs would go in the animals' holes, rout them out for their masters to shoot.
My dog book says until 1909 the Cairn was called a "Short-haired Skye" -- probably from the Isle of Skye, or Scotland mainland. Going back 300 years he is one of the oldest British working terriers. "Cairn" means "a heap of stones," meaning that for hundreds of years Scottish lairds kept a pack of these dogs to rout out fox, badgers, rats, otters from rocky places to keep them from destroying flocks of sheeep and poultry. The dogs would go in the animals' holes, rout them out for their masters to shoot.
September 24, 2013
Toto Toto
(Dogs 35)
Do you know the Cairn? If you don't, just imagine a dog half as big as a Scotty, much the same in appearance, you will have the picture well enough. Dorothy of Oz had a Cairn, Toto, and in the Forsyth Saga it is a Cairn who follows Aunt Julie home from Central Park.
Do you know the Cairn? If you don't, just imagine a dog half as big as a Scotty, much the same in appearance, you will have the picture well enough. Dorothy of Oz had a Cairn, Toto, and in the Forsyth Saga it is a Cairn who follows Aunt Julie home from Central Park.
September 23, 2013
Whose dog he was
(Dogs 34)
And yet from the first, I think Mr. Dee knew whose dog he was. I know I did. Mary M. lovedhim too. And if she didn't drill him in his tricks, she knew how to show him off to visitors. And though she has left me, as have the rest, and he is 15, old for a dog, he and I are still keeping house, still putting up with each other.
And yet from the first, I think Mr. Dee knew whose dog he was. I know I did. Mary M. lovedhim too. And if she didn't drill him in his tricks, she knew how to show him off to visitors. And though she has left me, as have the rest, and he is 15, old for a dog, he and I are still keeping house, still putting up with each other.
September 21, 2013
Rapt happiness Rapt happiness
(Dogs 32)
We were riding home. It was happening all over again -- this rapt happiness in a new dog. We were bringing home someone new, someone warm and cuddly, someone as yet a stranger but soon to be a memboer of the family.
We were riding home. It was happening all over again -- this rapt happiness in a new dog. We were bringing home someone new, someone warm and cuddly, someone as yet a stranger but soon to be a memboer of the family.
September 19, 2013
Cairn terriers for sale
(Dogs. 31)
So on a Sunday afternoon family car ride we saw the sign with "Cairn Terriers for Sale." They were all brindle except ours, for he was ours the minute we saw him scaring the grasshoppers in the garden -- black, hairy, not very big, hrdy, and with a quizzical expression.
So on a Sunday afternoon family car ride we saw the sign with "Cairn Terriers for Sale." They were all brindle except ours, for he was ours the minute we saw him scaring the grasshoppers in the garden -- black, hairy, not very big, hrdy, and with a quizzical expression.
September 12, 2013
A new dog
(Dogs 30)
So then we had cats, one batch after the other from our queen, Fraidy Cat; and while they have their blandishments, they are not dogs. And now [in my memory] it is Mary Margaret who is begging for a dog. And really there is no reason why not. It must be rather a small one, it must have hair, and it must have personality.
So then we had cats, one batch after the other from our queen, Fraidy Cat; and while they have their blandishments, they are not dogs. And now [in my memory] it is Mary Margaret who is begging for a dog. And really there is no reason why not. It must be rather a small one, it must have hair, and it must have personality.
September 10, 2013
Mourning
(Dogs 28)
All of us mourned for Vica. It was a sad family which had her buried on a lot we had by the river. And it was a sad mother who wrote to her boy that night and an even sadder son who read the letter next day.
All of us mourned for Vica. It was a sad family which had her buried on a lot we had by the river. And it was a sad mother who wrote to her boy that night and an even sadder son who read the letter next day.
September 8, 2013
Discovery
(Dogs 27)
One winter afternoon I was in the kitchen ... baking cookies when someone banged on the door. Here were Skipper and Bobby Cutting, eyes bulging, horrified. They had been skating on the river and found Vica dead, frozen in the ice.
One winter afternoon I was in the kitchen ... baking cookies when someone banged on the door. Here were Skipper and Bobby Cutting, eyes bulging, horrified. They had been skating on the river and found Vica dead, frozen in the ice.
September 7, 2013
Disappearance
(Dogs26)
By this time we had moved to the West Side and Vica had more country freedom to run. Sometimes she was gone over night. We were anxious and did what we could. [Polly does not explain that just before Thanksgiving Vica failed to come home; she just disappeared.]
By this time we had moved to the West Side and Vica had more country freedom to run. Sometimes she was gone over night. We were anxious and did what we could. [Polly does not explain that just before Thanksgiving Vica failed to come home; she just disappeared.]
September 5, 2013
Cabin fever
(Dogs 25)
Alas, it couldn't last forever, and Vica had to go back home with us. The same apathy all over again. She took to walking around and around the kitchen, feeling the four walls with her shoulder as she went, blindly. We called the vet to come and we all watched her going round and around, never stopping. It was marked. He said he had never seen such a thing before. And there was nothing to be done.
Alas, it couldn't last forever, and Vica had to go back home with us. The same apathy all over again. She took to walking around and around the kitchen, feeling the four walls with her shoulder as she went, blindly. We called the vet to come and we all watched her going round and around, never stopping. It was marked. He said he had never seen such a thing before. And there was nothing to be done.
September 3, 2013
A happy reunion
(Dogs 24)
On one occasion when we went to Ripon [for Homecoming] we took Vica with us, a lifeless hunk on the back seat. But as soon as she got out and saw Skip, and smelled him, oh the difference! How she came to life! She ran in circles, her tongue nuzzling him -- what a happy reunion!
On one occasion when we went to Ripon [for Homecoming] we took Vica with us, a lifeless hunk on the back seat. But as soon as she got out and saw Skip, and smelled him, oh the difference! How she came to life! She ran in circles, her tongue nuzzling him -- what a happy reunion!
September 1, 2013
Regrets
(Dogs 23)
We understood each other, [Vica and I]. All of us worried. Regretting I complained about her before, I now tried to make it up for her by taking her for walks. But I wasn't her master.
We understood each other, [Vica and I]. All of us worried. Regretting I complained about her before, I now tried to make it up for her by taking her for walks. But I wasn't her master.
August 31, 2013
Moping
(Dogs 22)
At last came the day of parting when Skip went off to Ripon. Then Vica was my dog -- but only the care was mine, never the heart. She waited and waited for school to be out. She started to mourn and mope and get thin.
At last came the day of parting when Skip went off to Ripon. Then Vica was my dog -- but only the care was mine, never the heart. She waited and waited for school to be out. She started to mourn and mope and get thin.
August 29, 2013
Too close
(Dogs 21)
Vica and Skip were very close -- too close for her own good. They were together every possible minute when school was out. One night he had to leave her home and she objected so strongly I sat with her on the porch comforting her until his return long after midnight.
Vica and Skip were very close -- too close for her own good. They were together every possible minute when school was out. One night he had to leave her home and she objected so strongly I sat with her on the porch comforting her until his return long after midnight.
August 27, 2013
Tricks
(Dogs 20)
One day Skip called us outside to watch Vica do her tricks. We expected to hear her speak and watch her sit up -- the old stanbys -- but Skip had taught her besides to jump thru a hoop, to ride on a fast moving wagon, to heel, to come, to stay, to stand, to sit -- all requisites of training for the next dog show.
One day Skip called us outside to watch Vica do her tricks. We expected to hear her speak and watch her sit up -- the old stanbys -- but Skip had taught her besides to jump thru a hoop, to ride on a fast moving wagon, to heel, to come, to stay, to stand, to sit -- all requisites of training for the next dog show.
August 25, 2013
Regrets
(Dogs 19) Vica was a marvelous dog. She really was. And sometimes now I feel bad because I was never so very nice to her. I complained about her size, the mud she tracked in, the new sock she quietly chewed up one evening while her master was translating his Latin and she was waiting for her walk.
August 24, 2013
Naming
(Dogs 18)
So started the reign of Vica. I believe I really named her. Queen and Princess seemed so worn. One day, when visiting Skip in his shack, I suddenly said, "How about Victoria? She was a queen and it could be a double entendre sort of -- you being victorious in winning us over." "Yes!" said Skip, "yes, and Vica for a call name."
So started the reign of Vica. I believe I really named her. Queen and Princess seemed so worn. One day, when visiting Skip in his shack, I suddenly said, "How about Victoria? She was a queen and it could be a double entendre sort of -- you being victorious in winning us over." "Yes!" said Skip, "yes, and Vica for a call name."
August 20, 2013
A matter of fact
(Dogs 17)
[Editor's Note. Polly's account of the finding of Vica is pure fantasy. When Skip got out of the hospital in Milwaukee, he stayed for a week with his grandfather Alfred and combed the want ads himself. He telephoned around and found Vica. Alfred drove him out to meet her. The asking price was $125, and Skip was hoping that Alfred would pay for her as a gift. Instead, Alfred loaned him the money, which he paid back $10 a month from his allowance. When it was time for Skip to go back home, Polly and Lorin went to the kennel for the first time, and Skip took possession of his new dog.]
[Editor's Note. Polly's account of the finding of Vica is pure fantasy. When Skip got out of the hospital in Milwaukee, he stayed for a week with his grandfather Alfred and combed the want ads himself. He telephoned around and found Vica. Alfred drove him out to meet her. The asking price was $125, and Skip was hoping that Alfred would pay for her as a gift. Instead, Alfred loaned him the money, which he paid back $10 a month from his allowance. When it was time for Skip to go back home, Polly and Lorin went to the kennel for the first time, and Skip took possession of his new dog.]
August 18, 2013
Victory
(Dogs 16)
"That's the dog! That's what we have been looking for! Oh, thank you Mother! Thank you, Daddy! I can hardly wait to go home." The eager, frightening, happiness.
"That's the dog! That's what we have been looking for! Oh, thank you Mother! Thank you, Daddy! I can hardly wait to go home." The eager, frightening, happiness.
August 15, 2013
The search
(Dogs 15)
Grimly we bought a "Milaukee Journal" and found the ads. About four places had German Shepherds. We set out in our car. What else? -- I said, "Lorin, why are we doing this?" Lorin said, "God knows." One place we found sold out. One had only a male left. One place we never did find. but at last we had one prospect to report, a female "with papers," parents winners in dog shows, priced right if taken soon.
Grimly we bought a "Milaukee Journal" and found the ads. About four places had German Shepherds. We set out in our car. What else? -- I said, "Lorin, why are we doing this?" Lorin said, "God knows." One place we found sold out. One had only a male left. One place we never did find. but at last we had one prospect to report, a female "with papers," parents winners in dog shows, priced right if taken soon.
August 11, 2013
Look for my dog
(Dogs 14)
"This is the ideal time to look for my dog, Daddy. I am sure there are ads in the paper. Just look -- will you please? There aren't any places to get German Shepherds at home. Please?" -- "Skip, honey, those are great big dogs. How can we have such a big dog in the house?" "I'll take care of him, Mother. Only look! Please."
"This is the ideal time to look for my dog, Daddy. I am sure there are ads in the paper. Just look -- will you please? There aren't any places to get German Shepherds at home. Please?" -- "Skip, honey, those are great big dogs. How can we have such a big dog in the house?" "I'll take care of him, Mother. Only look! Please."
August 10, 2013
Not our dog
(Dogs 10)
Finally it registered. "Lorin! This isn't Jennie!" "Sure it's our dog." "It certainly is not." Just then "our dog" proved me right by lifting his leg on a chair and settling the argument. So nothing for it but to get the car out again and take him back to the clinic to exchange for our own. "Well," said Lorin, excusing himself with a sheepish grin, "all Scotties look alike at night."
Finally it registered. "Lorin! This isn't Jennie!" "Sure it's our dog." "It certainly is not." Just then "our dog" proved me right by lifting his leg on a chair and settling the argument. So nothing for it but to get the car out again and take him back to the clinic to exchange for our own. "Well," said Lorin, excusing himself with a sheepish grin, "all Scotties look alike at night."
Longing for a dog
(Dogs 13)
As I remember the dogs we have had, the scene now changes, and I am looking into the big brown eyes of Vica. She was Skip's dog, a fine German Shepherd from a breeder in Milwaukee. He had been longing for a dog for years -- a strong dog that would be his own -- and there was always some reason for putting him off. At length here he was in the hospital for a minor operation, and Lorin and I were there, too, visiting him. "What can we do for you, Skip?"
As I remember the dogs we have had, the scene now changes, and I am looking into the big brown eyes of Vica. She was Skip's dog, a fine German Shepherd from a breeder in Milwaukee. He had been longing for a dog for years -- a strong dog that would be his own -- and there was always some reason for putting him off. At length here he was in the hospital for a minor operation, and Lorin and I were there, too, visiting him. "What can we do for you, Skip?"
August 8, 2013
Here first
(Dogs 12)
Jennie settled down well to her new home when we brought her to Richland Center. She was getting to be an old lady now, still devoted, still my dog. Skip complained she was not a good companion for him -- he wanted a real dog at his heels when he climbed the Town Bluff, a German Shepherd. We said Oh no -- we couldn't have two dogs -- and Jennie was here first. And German Shepherds are so big.
Jennie settled down well to her new home when we brought her to Richland Center. She was getting to be an old lady now, still devoted, still my dog. Skip complained she was not a good companion for him -- he wanted a real dog at his heels when he climbed the Town Bluff, a German Shepherd. We said Oh no -- we couldn't have two dogs -- and Jennie was here first. And German Shepherds are so big.
August 4, 2013
Thunder
(Dogs 11)
All so long ago now. Sometimes still, when the thunder is bad during a storm, I almost feel that thud on the foot of my bed -- Jennie seeking out the only safe place she trusted or knew.
All so long ago now. Sometimes still, when the thunder is bad during a storm, I almost feel that thud on the foot of my bed -- Jennie seeking out the only safe place she trusted or knew.
July 27, 2013
Investigation
(Dog(Dogs 9)
Scotties frequently get an itch, especially in warm weather. this is similar to an eczyma and frequently requires a trip to the vet for treatment. So it waswith Jeannie. Now it was evening, the time to get our dog back home again; so after dinner Lorin went after her. "Well, here's your dog," he said as they both came in. My dog, far from being glad to see me, walked right past me, trotted around the living room on a tour of investigation. I watched, amazed.
Scotties frequently get an itch, especially in warm weather. this is similar to an eczyma and frequently requires a trip to the vet for treatment. So it waswith Jeannie. Now it was evening, the time to get our dog back home again; so after dinner Lorin went after her. "Well, here's your dog," he said as they both came in. My dog, far from being glad to see me, walked right past me, trotted around the living room on a tour of investigation. I watched, amazed.
July 23, 2013
Determination
(Dogs 8)
Always docile, Jennie surprised me one day by showing me she had determination to solve a problem when she thought she knew best. She had had a litter of pups and they were in the utility room. Hoping to speed up the weaning, I had tied her to a chair in the living room and sat down nearby to read. A few moments later I was stunned to glance up to see her busily, silently, with no fuss at all, calmly chewing the rope in two, to regain her offspring.
Always docile, Jennie surprised me one day by showing me she had determination to solve a problem when she thought she knew best. She had had a litter of pups and they were in the utility room. Hoping to speed up the weaning, I had tied her to a chair in the living room and sat down nearby to read. A few moments later I was stunned to glance up to see her busily, silently, with no fuss at all, calmly chewing the rope in two, to regain her offspring.
July 18, 2013
Really my dog
(Dogs 7)
Jennie played with the baby and was loved by all; but she was really my dog, rarely leaving my side. If I hung clothes on the line, Jenny came in and out with me; if I sat down to read, she lay at my feet; when I lay sick on the davenport, she was tight against it.
Jennie played with the baby and was loved by all; but she was really my dog, rarely leaving my side. If I hung clothes on the line, Jenny came in and out with me; if I sat down to read, she lay at my feet; when I lay sick on the davenport, she was tight against it.
July 16, 2013
First night
(Dogs 6)
"What are you intending to do now?" asked Lorin, dreading a sleepless night before his trial in court the next day. But I was all ready for Jennie and pulled out a little box half under my bed to show him there was no cause for worry. All thru the night, whenever she would miss her mother, I'd put down my hand and pat her a bit. Then we'd sleep again. In a short time she was independent of me and ready for her basket in the kitchen.
"What are you intending to do now?" asked Lorin, dreading a sleepless night before his trial in court the next day. But I was all ready for Jennie and pulled out a little box half under my bed to show him there was no cause for worry. All thru the night, whenever she would miss her mother, I'd put down my hand and pat her a bit. Then we'd sleep again. In a short time she was independent of me and ready for her basket in the kitchen.
July 14, 2013
Arrival from KC
(Dogs 6)
All four of us [Ruth and the Kays] went to the station to meet the train and get the dogs. We let them out on the Court House Lawn and they ran around like crazy, never stopping, wild with joy, tumbling with freedom. It was evening, and I was worried for fear they would in their delight tear into the street, but they knew the grass was safer, and soon we gathered them up and went off home with our pets.
All four of us [Ruth and the Kays] went to the station to meet the train and get the dogs. We let them out on the Court House Lawn and they ran around like crazy, never stopping, wild with joy, tumbling with freedom. It was evening, and I was worried for fear they would in their delight tear into the street, but they knew the grass was safer, and soon we gathered them up and went off home with our pets.
July 13, 2013
Jennie
(Dogs 4)
At this time a friend of mine [Ruth Pilger] in Milwaukee had married a man from Kansas [Doyle], and his bitch, a Scottish Terrier, had just had a pretty nice litter of pups. So we bought one of those and decided that when he send for Midge, one of her pups should make the train journey with her in her box.
At this time a friend of mine [Ruth Pilger] in Milwaukee had married a man from Kansas [Doyle], and his bitch, a Scottish Terrier, had just had a pretty nice litter of pups. So we bought one of those and decided that when he send for Midge, one of her pups should make the train journey with her in her box.
July 11, 2013
Dog time
(Dogs 3)
After I had an education, a husband, a son, a cat and a house, I began thinking how nice it would be to have a little dog too. At length we caught up with the Depression far enough to decide we could afford one.
After I had an education, a husband, a son, a cat and a house, I began thinking how nice it would be to have a little dog too. At length we caught up with the Depression far enough to decide we could afford one.
July 9, 2013
Yard dog
(Dogs 2)
I'm afraid I remember little else about Cricket, except for his one outstanding accomplishment, he would never leave the yard. Passersby, intrigued by such a small specimen, could coax all they cared to with cameras ready, but Cricket would simply stare thru the fence.
I'm afraid I remember little else about Cricket, except for his one outstanding accomplishment, he would never leave the yard. Passersby, intrigued by such a small specimen, could coax all they cared to with cameras ready, but Cricket would simply stare thru the fence.
July 7, 2013
Cricket
(1911?)
Last night [in 1980] when I had counted quite enough sheep, I got to thinking about the dogs in my life. First of all I can remember coming home from school one afternoon and finding my mother sitting down, laughing, and holding her apron down on all three sides as well as she could, trying to keep something underneath, someone who, trying to escape, was making quite a lively job of it, squirming, fighting. "Guess! Guess!" ske kept saying. But I could only stand there staring, until finally she let him out and I took him to my heart. This was Cricket, a small Black & Tan Terrier.
Last night [in 1980] when I had counted quite enough sheep, I got to thinking about the dogs in my life. First of all I can remember coming home from school one afternoon and finding my mother sitting down, laughing, and holding her apron down on all three sides as well as she could, trying to keep something underneath, someone who, trying to escape, was making quite a lively job of it, squirming, fighting. "Guess! Guess!" ske kept saying. But I could only stand there staring, until finally she let him out and I took him to my heart. This was Cricket, a small Black & Tan Terrier.
June 29, 2013
Depression years
(1934)
Because of staying home so much and having so little company, I became very nervous and went to a specialist. *** [Polly's memoirs, written in 1980, stop here (in mid-page) . For some years thereafter she was badly depressed. She stopped writing in her 5-year diary on September 14, 1934, about a year after Caroline came. In 1980 she wrote another set of memoirs, "My Pets," which will follow on this blog. A bit later, she wrote a memoir about her brother Lyndon, which will also be posted eventually. For the next few months, this blog will be posted only on alternate days, when Skip can get to his desk.]
Because of staying home so much and having so little company, I became very nervous and went to a specialist. *** [Polly's memoirs, written in 1980, stop here (in mid-page) . For some years thereafter she was badly depressed. She stopped writing in her 5-year diary on September 14, 1934, about a year after Caroline came. In 1980 she wrote another set of memoirs, "My Pets," which will follow on this blog. A bit later, she wrote a memoir about her brother Lyndon, which will also be posted eventually. For the next few months, this blog will be posted only on alternate days, when Skip can get to his desk.]
June 27, 2013
Caroline
(1933)
I was not feeling well, was nervous, and we got a maid, Caroline Fandrick. Jobs were so hard to get she had to put up sharing Skip's room. There was no other place for her.
I was not feeling well, was nervous, and we got a maid, Caroline Fandrick. Jobs were so hard to get she had to put up sharing Skip's room. There was no other place for her.
June 25, 2013
Bump in the night
(1931?)
The bedroom windows, like the others [in the Beaumont Avenue house], were casements that opened out. One night a thump on my bed woke me and, startled, I called Lorin softly. He found a shoe in the dark, ready to defend himself, before turning on his bedside light. The monster proved to be a large grey and white house cat who came in from the cold. I believe we had this cat for some time before taking it to the zoo, where we put it in with many other unwanted cats.
The bedroom windows, like the others [in the Beaumont Avenue house], were casements that opened out. One night a thump on my bed woke me and, startled, I called Lorin softly. He found a shoe in the dark, ready to defend himself, before turning on his bedside light. The monster proved to be a large grey and white house cat who came in from the cold. I believe we had this cat for some time before taking it to the zoo, where we put it in with many other unwanted cats.
June 23, 2013
Beaumont Avenue
(1931)
We moved from our flat to a little house on Beaumont Avenue in Whitefish Bay [suburb north of Milwaukee]. ... That little house was like one in a fairy-tale illustration, with a tower holding the stairs, and the vaulted ceiling in the kitchen. French farm house style. It was a sweet little house, but too small, we soon found.
We moved from our flat to a little house on Beaumont Avenue in Whitefish Bay [suburb north of Milwaukee]. ... That little house was like one in a fairy-tale illustration, with a tower holding the stairs, and the vaulted ceiling in the kitchen. French farm house style. It was a sweet little house, but too small, we soon found.
June 22, 2013
Aftermath
(1930)
[The robber] took money LL left for groceries, about $7, and much worse our fraternity, sorority pins. I was too dazed to call out at once as he hurried down and away. Several times the police asked me to come to the police station to see arrested young men parade by on a stage with a strong light, but I never identified him. ... Bob Kay was persuaded to stay with [baby] Skip while I answered the police call.
[The robber] took money LL left for groceries, about $7, and much worse our fraternity, sorority pins. I was too dazed to call out at once as he hurried down and away. Several times the police asked me to come to the police station to see arrested young men parade by on a stage with a strong light, but I never identified him. ... Bob Kay was persuaded to stay with [baby] Skip while I answered the police call.
June 20, 2013
Robbery
(1930)
Lorin always left a few dollars for grocery shopping, and one afternoon I went out to a grocery store in the block to shop. When I came up the stairs, I noticed our door slightly open. It flashed thru my mind, this must be the janitor showing the apartment, as I had heard similar tales. Carrying the tall bag of groceries, I stood in the doorway, expectantly looking at a young man in a soft gray suit. "Get in here!" he said. "Get in here!" I was dumbfounded and did walk in. As he walked out, I saw the top dresser drawer open and realized finally he was a thief and I had been robbed.
Lorin always left a few dollars for grocery shopping, and one afternoon I went out to a grocery store in the block to shop. When I came up the stairs, I noticed our door slightly open. It flashed thru my mind, this must be the janitor showing the apartment, as I had heard similar tales. Carrying the tall bag of groceries, I stood in the doorway, expectantly looking at a young man in a soft gray suit. "Get in here!" he said. "Get in here!" I was dumbfounded and did walk in. As he walked out, I saw the top dresser drawer open and realized finally he was a thief and I had been robbed.
June 18, 2013
Sick abed
(1930)
I became sick and weak in my pregnancy and for a week or two was flat on my back in bed with a trained nurse and specialist. When the nurse left, one of the Pedrick twins [also a nurse, from Ripon] came in. I was sorry for Lorin because of the expenses and worry; however, I got stronger and was able to keep my own house with a Polish woman once a week.
I became sick and weak in my pregnancy and for a week or two was flat on my back in bed with a trained nurse and specialist. When the nurse left, one of the Pedrick twins [also a nurse, from Ripon] came in. I was sorry for Lorin because of the expenses and worry; however, I got stronger and was able to keep my own house with a Polish woman once a week.
June 11, 2013
City Club
(1930)
Lorin started work at his father's law office the next day. He usually ate with his father at noon at the City Club, where Alfred said even though expensive they met people who might be in need of their law services. Perhaps.
Lorin started work at his father's law office the next day. He usually ate with his father at noon at the City Club, where Alfred said even though expensive they met people who might be in need of their law services. Perhaps.
June 8, 2013
Launch
(1930 June)
We continued north [on our honeymoon] the next day until Lorin said, "Let's see what this is like" and turned into the driveway of a summer resort. The woman in charge showed us two cottages, one was the usual little cheaply built house, while the other was a large launch, evidently no longer fit for the lake, now made into a cottage. We were amused and delighted and signed for it at once. I believe in an old photo album there is a picture of me sitting on the entrance steps. I think Lorin was wearing plus fours. We swam, went boating and I believe my son was conceived there.
We continued north [on our honeymoon] the next day until Lorin said, "Let's see what this is like" and turned into the driveway of a summer resort. The woman in charge showed us two cottages, one was the usual little cheaply built house, while the other was a large launch, evidently no longer fit for the lake, now made into a cottage. We were amused and delighted and signed for it at once. I believe in an old photo album there is a picture of me sitting on the entrance steps. I think Lorin was wearing plus fours. We swam, went boating and I believe my son was conceived there.
June 5, 2013
Allowance
(1930)
[Alfred Kay's] children had an allowance out of which they were expected to buy their clothes and amusements, except occasional large items like overcoats, tailormade suits etc. I know meat balls were frequently served and Grandma Kay did a good deal of patching both of household items and family clothing.
[Alfred Kay's] children had an allowance out of which they were expected to buy their clothes and amusements, except occasional large items like overcoats, tailormade suits etc. I know meat balls were frequently served and Grandma Kay did a good deal of patching both of household items and family clothing.
June 4, 2013
Pork chop
(1930)
Although Alfred, my father-in-law, had settled his family in one of the finest neighborhoods in Milwaukee, Richland Court in Shorewood, yet he was close about many other things. One night while I was there, Bobby, Lorin's younger brother, let us know he would not be home for supper. "Oh, good," Lorin said, "I can have his pork chop!" "I get some of it," Dede, his sister, said. It was bewildering. We always had meat left over at our house, but then we had no maid to serve it nor a beautiful house that was displayed in an architect's magazine to serve it in.
Although Alfred, my father-in-law, had settled his family in one of the finest neighborhoods in Milwaukee, Richland Court in Shorewood, yet he was close about many other things. One night while I was there, Bobby, Lorin's younger brother, let us know he would not be home for supper. "Oh, good," Lorin said, "I can have his pork chop!" "I get some of it," Dede, his sister, said. It was bewildering. We always had meat left over at our house, but then we had no maid to serve it nor a beautiful house that was displayed in an architect's magazine to serve it in.
June 3, 2013
Thrift
(1930 June)
We hung up our fine wedding clothes and prepared for bed. "For Heaven's sake!" I said, "why in the world do you have winter flannel pajamas on in June?" I asked thoughtlessly. "Because," Lorin said, a bit edgy, "I was saving up for this trip." I said no more, for I was beginning to understand the Kay family more as time went on.
We hung up our fine wedding clothes and prepared for bed. "For Heaven's sake!" I said, "why in the world do you have winter flannel pajamas on in June?" I asked thoughtlessly. "Because," Lorin said, a bit edgy, "I was saving up for this trip." I said no more, for I was beginning to understand the Kay family more as time went on.
June 2, 2013
Airless in Antigo
(1930 June)
So now as we turned back from our walk [in Antigo], I thought of my new home [on Oakland Avenue], wondered what it would be like living there, and half wishing I was finding out. We had left this pretty part of our walk and were crossing the main street to our hotel, walking up the stairs to our room we remarked how airless it was.
So now as we turned back from our walk [in Antigo], I thought of my new home [on Oakland Avenue], wondered what it would be like living there, and half wishing I was finding out. We had left this pretty part of our walk and were crossing the main street to our hotel, walking up the stairs to our room we remarked how airless it was.
June 1, 2013
Grandma Kay
(1930s)
This story cannot be told without saying how much Grandma Kay (Rosie Miller) helped us in every way. All these years I have used her scissors which she lent and refused to take back.
This story cannot be told without saying how much Grandma Kay (Rosie Miller) helped us in every way. All these years I have used her scissors which she lent and refused to take back.
May 31, 2013
First home
(1930 June)
You walked up a flight of stairs [to get to our Oakland Avenue apartment], turned to the right and there was our front (and only) door. Straight ahead was the coat closet, to the right the bath and bedroom. But on the right [sic] the living room, dinette, and beyond the small kitchen. Outside, opposite the front door, was a noisy street-car barn, on either side another apartment as close as the law allowed. In the back, a small yard with a clothesline, always up. Across the hall I found agreeable neighbors, Peggy, getting a divorce, and her mother, always ready for a gossip.
You walked up a flight of stairs [to get to our Oakland Avenue apartment], turned to the right and there was our front (and only) door. Straight ahead was the coat closet, to the right the bath and bedroom. But on the right [sic] the living room, dinette, and beyond the small kitchen. Outside, opposite the front door, was a noisy street-car barn, on either side another apartment as close as the law allowed. In the back, a small yard with a clothesline, always up. Across the hall I found agreeable neighbors, Peggy, getting a divorce, and her mother, always ready for a gossip.
May 30, 2013
Furnishing
(1930 June)
So, after picking out our furniture, choosing living room and dining room draperies to go with the Chinese rug, the place [on Oakland Avenue] began to look pretty good.
So, after picking out our furniture, choosing living room and dining room draperies to go with the Chinese rug, the place [on Oakland Avenue] began to look pretty good.
May 29, 2013
Transition
(1930 June)
I had just wound up a year of school teaching, finishing local and state reports. Then Lorin came with the car and there was a great moving of all my possessions, clothes and books to my Fond du Lac home. After a week or so, I was invited to the Kay home [in Milwaukee] to go apartment hunting. I believe by the time I got there Vina [Lorin's step-mother] had already secured an apartment on the second floor of a two-story building on Oakland Avenue.
I had just wound up a year of school teaching, finishing local and state reports. Then Lorin came with the car and there was a great moving of all my possessions, clothes and books to my Fond du Lac home. After a week or so, I was invited to the Kay home [in Milwaukee] to go apartment hunting. I believe by the time I got there Vina [Lorin's step-mother] had already secured an apartment on the second floor of a two-story building on Oakland Avenue.
May 28, 2013
Antigo
(1930 June)
We washed up and went out to eat. I am sure we had the best to be had, as Lorin was fond of his food. The town was bleak and bare, its shops closed for the night. So we took a little walk, leisurely, enjoyed the pretty yards and flowerbeds. Families sat on porches watching us, strangers. I was afraid to say how tired I was and tried to be good company.
We washed up and went out to eat. I am sure we had the best to be had, as Lorin was fond of his food. The town was bleak and bare, its shops closed for the night. So we took a little walk, leisurely, enjoyed the pretty yards and flowerbeds. Families sat on porches watching us, strangers. I was afraid to say how tired I was and tried to be good company.
May 27, 2013
Hotel
(1930 June)
It was about supper time as we came to the next town, spotted the only hotel, and decided to spend the night. Was it Antiack? It may well have been [but probably was Antigo]. Hotels in the northern part of the state do not present a very grand appearance. This one was poor and bare. If there were carpets, they had been there a long, long time. We stood alone in the entrance, rang a bell on the desk, and waited. A man came from the back, sleeves rolled up, surprised we wanted a room. After we checked in, he carried our cases up.
It was about supper time as we came to the next town, spotted the only hotel, and decided to spend the night. Was it Antiack? It may well have been [but probably was Antigo]. Hotels in the northern part of the state do not present a very grand appearance. This one was poor and bare. If there were carpets, they had been there a long, long time. We stood alone in the entrance, rang a bell on the desk, and waited. A man came from the back, sleeves rolled up, surprised we wanted a room. After we checked in, he carried our cases up.
May 26, 2013
Another flat
(1930 June)
"If you want to stop at any of these places, let me know," he said as we whisked swiftly past lakes and lodges. "Hell," he said, "there goes another tire." He stopped the car to take off the tire. A young officer came along on his motorcycle. "Why are you stopping in the road?" he asked sternly. "Officer, what could I do?" And Lorin put his hand through the hole in the tire. "OK. OK. But get it off the road." "Yes sir." And we got underway once more, with a few crude remarks about how Vina kept her car.
"If you want to stop at any of these places, let me know," he said as we whisked swiftly past lakes and lodges. "Hell," he said, "there goes another tire." He stopped the car to take off the tire. A young officer came along on his motorcycle. "Why are you stopping in the road?" he asked sternly. "Officer, what could I do?" And Lorin put his hand through the hole in the tire. "OK. OK. But get it off the road." "Yes sir." And we got underway once more, with a few crude remarks about how Vina kept her car.
May 25, 2013
Wedding dess
(1930 June)
So we did [get the tire fixed], being a remarkable couple at an oil station. I was wearing a pale blue silk dress, Lorin's favorite color -- "What other colors are there?" It had a fitted bodice and full skirt made with gathered 7-inch sections. The sleeves were short and puffed, the neck low and boat shaped. My hat was of finest straw, poke bonnet effect, in matching blue and a little peak somewhere. Lorin's beautiful dark simply-cut summer suit with gray tie did him credit. No wonder people stared at us on the street.
So we did [get the tire fixed], being a remarkable couple at an oil station. I was wearing a pale blue silk dress, Lorin's favorite color -- "What other colors are there?" It had a fitted bodice and full skirt made with gathered 7-inch sections. The sleeves were short and puffed, the neck low and boat shaped. My hat was of finest straw, poke bonnet effect, in matching blue and a little peak somewhere. Lorin's beautiful dark simply-cut summer suit with gray tie did him credit. No wonder people stared at us on the street.
May 24, 2013
First flat
(1930 June)
Somewhere on a country highway, the car started to bump. Lorin smothered an oath, got out, took off his jacket, and remarked we had a flat. It surprised me that he knew exactly what to do tho it wasn't his car, nor did he have one. I was to find out as time went by he knew a great many things. I have remarked his aversion to labor; this dislike showed plainly as he at last got the spare on and tossed the flat in the trunk. "That's done," I said. "Not quite. We still have to get it fixed."
Somewhere on a country highway, the car started to bump. Lorin smothered an oath, got out, took off his jacket, and remarked we had a flat. It surprised me that he knew exactly what to do tho it wasn't his car, nor did he have one. I was to find out as time went by he knew a great many things. I have remarked his aversion to labor; this dislike showed plainly as he at last got the spare on and tossed the flat in the trunk. "That's done," I said. "Not quite. We still have to get it fixed."
May 23, 2013
Honeymoon
(1930 June)
I am telling you, Lorin became a lawyer; after Ripon he went on to graduate from UW law school and married me. After we were married in June on Flag Day [at Green Lake], we headed north in his stepmother's car, borrowed for the occasion. Northern Wisconsin was our goal and the sooner the better, as both of us were dog tired.
I am telling you, Lorin became a lawyer; after Ripon he went on to graduate from UW law school and married me. After we were married in June on Flag Day [at Green Lake], we headed north in his stepmother's car, borrowed for the occasion. Northern Wisconsin was our goal and the sooner the better, as both of us were dog tired.
May 22, 2013
Lorin's character
"1980 MEMOIRS" ENDS HERE.
"EARLY MARRIED LIFE" IS A SUPPLEMENT (also from 1980s)
(Married life)
If I hadn't been as big a fool in love as any schoolgirl (which indeed I was) I should have figured out Lorin's character while we were still at Ripon. Basically, he was a person who liked creature comforts, loved his God and home, disliked physical labor and so chose to live by his wits.
"EARLY MARRIED LIFE" IS A SUPPLEMENT (also from 1980s)
(Married life)
If I hadn't been as big a fool in love as any schoolgirl (which indeed I was) I should have figured out Lorin's character while we were still at Ripon. Basically, he was a person who liked creature comforts, loved his God and home, disliked physical labor and so chose to live by his wits.
May 21, 2013
Ghost writer
(1980 memoirs)
In the spring we were taking a walk and talking about some graduation exercises. "What did you think of so-and-so's address?" Lorin wanted to know. "Well," I said, "I thot it was very very good, especially for him. I never thot he was capable of talking so well, let alone writing up a speech like that." Then a teasing smile came over Lorin's face. "He didn't." "What?" "I wrote it for him." It was only then that I recalled the speaker a day or two ago running across the campus toward Merriman Hall shouting for "Kay!" So he must have been fairly well known for this art.
In the spring we were taking a walk and talking about some graduation exercises. "What did you think of so-and-so's address?" Lorin wanted to know. "Well," I said, "I thot it was very very good, especially for him. I never thot he was capable of talking so well, let alone writing up a speech like that." Then a teasing smile came over Lorin's face. "He didn't." "What?" "I wrote it for him." It was only then that I recalled the speaker a day or two ago running across the campus toward Merriman Hall shouting for "Kay!" So he must have been fairly well known for this art.
May 20, 2013
Tutorial
Much later I asked Lorin about how it happened he seemed to be so capable along these lines [organizing parties] -- news to me -- and he said it was because of his home life. His parents always had lovely parties, and he heard them talking about arrangements, etc. A smart lad in many ways.
May 19, 2013
Always good
(1980 memoirs)
The fraternity brother explained: "Kay? Say, he may not go himself, but he sure knows how to get it ready. He hires the hall, the band, arranges for the eats. And everything is always good!"
The fraternity brother explained: "Kay? Say, he may not go himself, but he sure knows how to get it ready. He hires the hall, the band, arranges for the eats. And everything is always good!"
May 18, 2013
Social director
(1980 memoirs)
Before I knew Lorin well, knew him just as a serious, solemn boy, I used to read published lists of officers etc. from the various dorms. Merriman frequently had him as "Social Director" or some such title. I asked one of the fellows about it one time -- how Lorin could fill that office when he was far from social, never had a date of any kind.
Before I knew Lorin well, knew him just as a serious, solemn boy, I used to read published lists of officers etc. from the various dorms. Merriman frequently had him as "Social Director" or some such title. I asked one of the fellows about it one time -- how Lorin could fill that office when he was far from social, never had a date of any kind.
May 16, 2013
Know-how
(1980 memoirs)
Lorin had quite a bit of "know-how" about how many, many things should be done (I noticed especially years later when I heard him talking to contracters and carpenters building onto our house), yet he was not very good at manual skills.
Lorin had quite a bit of "know-how" about how many, many things should be done (I noticed especially years later when I heard him talking to contracters and carpenters building onto our house), yet he was not very good at manual skills.
May 15, 2013
wrong way
(1980 memoirs)
Then one spring day, or week-end, we were at a Merriman [fraternity] house party, on Green Lake I think it was. People were doing this and that on the afternoon. Seeing an idle row boat, he asked me if I'd like to go for a ride. I said sure and got in. He got in too, took the oars, pushed off, and started rowing backwards! I was dumbfounded. A couple of his pals on shore were highly amused! I said, before thinking, "Don't you even know how to row?" He was laughing too and soon started pulling the right way and we had a nice row. I often think of little things like that.
Then one spring day, or week-end, we were at a Merriman [fraternity] house party, on Green Lake I think it was. People were doing this and that on the afternoon. Seeing an idle row boat, he asked me if I'd like to go for a ride. I said sure and got in. He got in too, took the oars, pushed off, and started rowing backwards! I was dumbfounded. A couple of his pals on shore were highly amused! I said, before thinking, "Don't you even know how to row?" He was laughing too and soon started pulling the right way and we had a nice row. I often think of little things like that.
May 14, 2013
Eagle scout
(1980 memoirs)
Lorin was an Eagle Scout and often referred to it, his camp on Silver Lake and all the rest. One time he told me about how he and another boy rowed across the lake every day for mail and supplies.
Lorin was an Eagle Scout and often referred to it, his camp on Silver Lake and all the rest. One time he told me about how he and another boy rowed across the lake every day for mail and supplies.
May 13, 2013
Hopeles
(1980 memoirs)
Alfred, Lorin's father, took him to a country club, possibly Tripoli, put him in the hands of a teacher [to learn sports]. What happened exactly he would never say except only now and then in a scathing remark. Yet we would love going to a UW football game and dance afterward. And he would often tune into a game Saturday afternoon on the radio to hear as he was stamping.
Alfred, Lorin's father, took him to a country club, possibly Tripoli, put him in the hands of a teacher [to learn sports]. What happened exactly he would never say except only now and then in a scathing remark. Yet we would love going to a UW football game and dance afterward. And he would often tune into a game Saturday afternoon on the radio to hear as he was stamping.
May 12, 2013
No sport
(1980 memoirs)
As we were more and more together, I learned to understand what he was really like. Now and then he would say someting desparaging about sports -- "spending your life chasing a little ball around." I was dimly puzzled, having gone with a couple of football players a little. Gradually I got to learn he was no good at outdoor games.
As we were more and more together, I learned to understand what he was really like. Now and then he would say someting desparaging about sports -- "spending your life chasing a little ball around." I was dimly puzzled, having gone with a couple of football players a little. Gradually I got to learn he was no good at outdoor games.
May 11, 2013
Leaving Ripon
(1980 memoirs)
I was a year ahead of Lorin but we both left Ripon together. He then went to Wisconsin studying law and taking extra work to finish out his degree at Ripon. [After doing graduate work in English at Madison for a year] I went up north to teach in a high school for two years, then got a job nearer Madison until school let out and we were married in June 1930.
I was a year ahead of Lorin but we both left Ripon together. He then went to Wisconsin studying law and taking extra work to finish out his degree at Ripon. [After doing graduate work in English at Madison for a year] I went up north to teach in a high school for two years, then got a job nearer Madison until school let out and we were married in June 1930.
May 9, 2013
Halloween
(1980 memoirs)
This [social whirl] went on for two years until in my Junior Year I started going with Lorin. On Halloween, after a movie, I think, he asked me to marry him. We got engaged first and became acquainted later. From then on all we cared about was being together. We went to parties, movies, walks, and wrote for the school paper, as far as I recall the only class we had together.
This [social whirl] went on for two years until in my Junior Year I started going with Lorin. On Halloween, after a movie, I think, he asked me to marry him. We got engaged first and became acquainted later. From then on all we cared about was being together. We went to parties, movies, walks, and wrote for the school paper, as far as I recall the only class we had together.
May 6, 2013
Frat party
(1980 memoirs)
[At Ripon] I went to house parties with various boys, all-day boat rides on a big boat, out-of-town frat parties-- realy a bash. I still recall one where we all joined hands in a big circle, danced around, singing "Three Blind Mice" and other ditties -- the dance hall was dimly lit, balloons and streamers hung from the ceiling, the music was good and it was fun.
[At Ripon] I went to house parties with various boys, all-day boat rides on a big boat, out-of-town frat parties-- realy a bash. I still recall one where we all joined hands in a big circle, danced around, singing "Three Blind Mice" and other ditties -- the dance hall was dimly lit, balloons and streamers hung from the ceiling, the music was good and it was fun.
May 5, 2013
Keep on trucking
(1980 memoirs)
To this day I get more of a real thrill from riding in a truck than in any posh car. I have ridden in the electrician's truck, oil truck, furniture truck, mover's van, plumber's, -- oh, I don't know -- carpenter's, house painter's -- etc.
To this day I get more of a real thrill from riding in a truck than in any posh car. I have ridden in the electrician's truck, oil truck, furniture truck, mover's van, plumber's, -- oh, I don't know -- carpenter's, house painter's -- etc.
May 4, 2013
Bus ride
(1980 memoirs)
One night when I said I'd go to the movie with Marvin, he called for me with his hotel bus! I got up [on the driver's seat] with a boost from him and was highly amused! He sort of took it for granted, though. We may have done this again, but after that I think his boss caught on and fired him.
One night when I said I'd go to the movie with Marvin, he called for me with his hotel bus! I got up [on the driver's seat] with a boost from him and was highly amused! He sort of took it for granted, though. We may have done this again, but after that I think his boss caught on and fired him.
May 3, 2013
Bus driver
(1980 memoirs)
Then there was a nice boy, very dark, black hair, acne complection, white teeth who lived at a Ripon Hotel and drove a bus to the trains regularly. This was a bus with long bench seats that were fastened to the sides facing each other. Marvin rode up high outside as if it were a coach with horses.
Then there was a nice boy, very dark, black hair, acne complection, white teeth who lived at a Ripon Hotel and drove a bus to the trains regularly. This was a bus with long bench seats that were fastened to the sides facing each other. Marvin rode up high outside as if it were a coach with horses.
May 2, 2013
Cemetery scene
(1980 memoirs)
Of course Harry [the drummer] and I had movie dates, etc. Sometimes after a movie we'd go to Sanford Cemetery and sit on the tombstones and talk. He might put his arm around me and say, "Well, I see you have on your cast-iron protector tonight." I would giggle and say, "Yes." So then pretty soon we'd walk home! This went one for a while, and it wasn't too many weeks before we mutually went our separate ways. Too little in common.
Of course Harry [the drummer] and I had movie dates, etc. Sometimes after a movie we'd go to Sanford Cemetery and sit on the tombstones and talk. He might put his arm around me and say, "Well, I see you have on your cast-iron protector tonight." I would giggle and say, "Yes." So then pretty soon we'd walk home! This went one for a while, and it wasn't too many weeks before we mutually went our separate ways. Too little in common.
May 1, 2013
Harry the drummer
(1980 memoirs)
Before I leave off telling you about boys I knew at school, I'll have to tell you about one more, Harry. He was a small person, a drummer in a school band that played in the gym at least once a week for after-supper dances. I would walk back to school alone after supper and sit out quite a bit as he was busy. Sometimes he'd get someone to play for him and we'd dance. I never really cared for him very much, to tell the truth.
Before I leave off telling you about boys I knew at school, I'll have to tell you about one more, Harry. He was a small person, a drummer in a school band that played in the gym at least once a week for after-supper dances. I would walk back to school alone after supper and sit out quite a bit as he was busy. Sometimes he'd get someone to play for him and we'd dance. I never really cared for him very much, to tell the truth.
April 30, 2013
Book burning
(1980 memoirs)
But I kept the Ripon Memory Book, and one fine day after I was married a while, I burned the whole she-bang in our coal furnace in the utility room [on Beaumont Avenue]. All the things in this book suddenly became very trivial and unimportant. More and more I felt how silly I'd feel if anyone read it, especially Lorin. I felt silly myself. Whatever prompted me to spend time on it?
But I kept the Ripon Memory Book, and one fine day after I was married a while, I burned the whole she-bang in our coal furnace in the utility room [on Beaumont Avenue]. All the things in this book suddenly became very trivial and unimportant. More and more I felt how silly I'd feel if anyone read it, especially Lorin. I felt silly myself. Whatever prompted me to spend time on it?
April 28, 2013
Memory book
(1980 memoirs)
Well -- now -- [when a freshman at Ripon College] one of the first things I bought for $5.00 and which I could not well afford was a large memory book with stiff red covers decorated with a big red R on the cover. Inside was ruled spaces for such things as teachers, friends, social functions, dates, and the like. I filled it in the first year or two and then lost interest.
Well -- now -- [when a freshman at Ripon College] one of the first things I bought for $5.00 and which I could not well afford was a large memory book with stiff red covers decorated with a big red R on the cover. Inside was ruled spaces for such things as teachers, friends, social functions, dates, and the like. I filled it in the first year or two and then lost interest.
April 25, 2013
Skittish
(1980 memoirs)
The Evans' daughter was Betty, and one time I impersonated her in a skit given to take off the faculty. I recall only that I borrowed someone's coon-skin coat (like hers) and at one point asked, "My father said that?" What I remember vividly, though, is looking at the audience and seeing the agonized faces of Betty and her parents! Whatever makes us get into situations so disgraceful we never forget them the rest of our lives?
The Evans' daughter was Betty, and one time I impersonated her in a skit given to take off the faculty. I recall only that I borrowed someone's coon-skin coat (like hers) and at one point asked, "My father said that?" What I remember vividly, though, is looking at the audience and seeing the agonized faces of Betty and her parents! Whatever makes us get into situations so disgraceful we never forget them the rest of our lives?
April 24, 2013
Don't
(1980 memoirs)
The president of Ripon College was Silas Evans, well liked by all as far as I ever knew. Chapel was compulsory and roll call was taken. Speakers were often professors who were also ministers. Prexy often spoke himself. As a member of Tess O'Brian's Special English Class, I flinched every time he said, "He don't." One day he spoke of it, saying he realized his mistake as soon as he said it, and his wife frequently corrected him, yet he could not overcome it; and cautioned us all to make good habits now
The president of Ripon College was Silas Evans, well liked by all as far as I ever knew. Chapel was compulsory and roll call was taken. Speakers were often professors who were also ministers. Prexy often spoke himself. As a member of Tess O'Brian's Special English Class, I flinched every time he said, "He don't." One day he spoke of it, saying he realized his mistake as soon as he said it, and his wife frequently corrected him, yet he could not overcome it; and cautioned us all to make good habits now
April 23, 2013
Plaid sox
(1980 memoirs)
A girl I knew, Marian Cole, a pretty blonde, told me about a couple of dates she had with Si Owen. When he came to call for her, her father was in his slippers, wearing rather bright plaid sox. As soon as she got her coat and they were in the hall, he whispered, "Where does he keep them? Those sox?" And ever after when he called for her he would whisper, "Where are they?" He was so grave-looking but so funny to talk to it was fun being with him. But he didn't go with either of us very much at all, but rather with a plain, dowdy girl, and we could never see what he saw in her.
A girl I knew, Marian Cole, a pretty blonde, told me about a couple of dates she had with Si Owen. When he came to call for her, her father was in his slippers, wearing rather bright plaid sox. As soon as she got her coat and they were in the hall, he whispered, "Where does he keep them? Those sox?" And ever after when he called for her he would whisper, "Where are they?" He was so grave-looking but so funny to talk to it was fun being with him. But he didn't go with either of us very much at all, but rather with a plain, dowdy girl, and we could never see what he saw in her.
April 22, 2013
Angel eyes
(1980 memoirs)
[In Biology class] we were seated alphabetically in the Little Theater for the lecture, and that put me next to a wise solemn senior, Si Owen, who was rather slight in build, wore dark horn-rimmed spectacles, and, belying his grave appearance, was exceedingly good company and frequentlly came out with funny and sometimes audacious things. As soon as I sat down next to him the first day, he said, "Hello, Angel Eyes."
[In Biology class] we were seated alphabetically in the Little Theater for the lecture, and that put me next to a wise solemn senior, Si Owen, who was rather slight in build, wore dark horn-rimmed spectacles, and, belying his grave appearance, was exceedingly good company and frequentlly came out with funny and sometimes audacious things. As soon as I sat down next to him the first day, he said, "Hello, Angel Eyes."
April 21, 2013
Microscope
(1980 memoirs)
The assistant for our section [of biology] was an Armenian, Katcher Tutungeon, who spoke with a deep accent. Well do I recall the day I put my eye to the microscope and obediently "drew what I saw." I had no idea what it was for some dim reason until he made his rounds and said, "Miss Parsons, your bed bug is OK, but you have drawn him on his head, upside down!"
The assistant for our section [of biology] was an Armenian, Katcher Tutungeon, who spoke with a deep accent. Well do I recall the day I put my eye to the microscope and obediently "drew what I saw." I had no idea what it was for some dim reason until he made his rounds and said, "Miss Parsons, your bed bug is OK, but you have drawn him on his head, upside down!"
April 18, 2013
The frog story
(1980 memoirs)
My biology class still stands out strong and clear. All the sections came together for the lecture by Prof. Groves. Year after year he told the same story, which was passed down by the sophomores, so we were expecting it and should have applauded. There was a frog who fell into a can of cream, but instead of drowning as he might have done, he kept on trying and trying to get out until finally -- guess what? -- the cream turned to butter, giving him something solid to stand on, and he gave a good jump and got out! This illustrated how fine a thing Determination is! -- only I think he said "milk can." But he might have said "cream."
My biology class still stands out strong and clear. All the sections came together for the lecture by Prof. Groves. Year after year he told the same story, which was passed down by the sophomores, so we were expecting it and should have applauded. There was a frog who fell into a can of cream, but instead of drowning as he might have done, he kept on trying and trying to get out until finally -- guess what? -- the cream turned to butter, giving him something solid to stand on, and he gave a good jump and got out! This illustrated how fine a thing Determination is! -- only I think he said "milk can." But he might have said "cream."
April 17, 2013
Reciprocity
(1980 memoirs)
It was fun going out with Sammy Meyers, but soon he was going with a girl from a sorority house. I could understand this very well because by doing so he got invited to their parties, and I had no way to repay him for his invitations to West Hall, etc. Later on the girls from town did organize and entertain, but not that year.
It was fun going out with Sammy Meyers, but soon he was going with a girl from a sorority house. I could understand this very well because by doing so he got invited to their parties, and I had no way to repay him for his invitations to West Hall, etc. Later on the girls from town did organize and entertain, but not that year.
April 16, 2013
All in the vice
(1980 memoirs)
That [Frosh Party] is how I met Sammy Meyers, a very cute boy, I always thot. He talked in rather a husky voice and said cute things in a confiding manner. He smoked a short black pipe and it gave him rather an air, you know. He told me about when he first went home (Racine) and his father (a lawyer, I think) asked him where he got the pipe. "I just told him, 'I acquired it,'" he said in that soft voice.
That [Frosh Party] is how I met Sammy Meyers, a very cute boy, I always thot. He talked in rather a husky voice and said cute things in a confiding manner. He smoked a short black pipe and it gave him rather an air, you know. He told me about when he first went home (Racine) and his father (a lawyer, I think) asked him where he got the pipe. "I just told him, 'I acquired it,'" he said in that soft voice.
April 15, 2013
The Frosh Party
(1980 memoirs)
At Ripon all was new and different. The Frosh Party was early in the fall. The idea was the Freshmen tried to steal a march on the Sophomores and sneak out of town and have a party. I think some of them took some food along, tho I am hazy on that. Anyway, whether the news leaked out or the Sophs suddenly noticed the Frosh had disappeared -- whatever -- they tried to stop the cars from leaving town, bust up the party, and probably take the girls home. We tried to have our party too, but news leaked out somehow, and suddenly we were attacked by crowds of kids.
At Ripon all was new and different. The Frosh Party was early in the fall. The idea was the Freshmen tried to steal a march on the Sophomores and sneak out of town and have a party. I think some of them took some food along, tho I am hazy on that. Anyway, whether the news leaked out or the Sophs suddenly noticed the Frosh had disappeared -- whatever -- they tried to stop the cars from leaving town, bust up the party, and probably take the girls home. We tried to have our party too, but news leaked out somehow, and suddenly we were attacked by crowds of kids.
April 14, 2013
More about Mice
(1980 memoirs)
Margaret was of a large Roman Catholic family and deep in the middle, an agreeable girl and kind. Irma was very smart, very quick. Now she plays a lot of golf; house always shining; is always on top of whatever she does. El was an excellent dressmaker and made entire outfits for her small sisters, self, and helped me too.
Margaret was of a large Roman Catholic family and deep in the middle, an agreeable girl and kind. Irma was very smart, very quick. Now she plays a lot of golf; house always shining; is always on top of whatever she does. El was an excellent dressmaker and made entire outfits for her small sisters, self, and helped me too.
April 13, 2013
Comedy
(1980 memoirs)
There was one time, probably the Homecoming Dance -- or a prom -- when Eleanor wanted me to get her a date with someone at Ripon. I said yes, and did. But Dick [her boyfriend] got wind of it and phoned me and asked if I would get him a date. So I did. Well, I believe Eleanor's date came, Dick's date came (I don't recall the details) and mine. For a few minutes there Cousin Frankie's living room was very crowded. Looking back on this I am amazed at myself. Eleanor had been going steady with Dick for some time and I was good friends with both. I think they rode together on the train going back and patched it up.
There was one time, probably the Homecoming Dance -- or a prom -- when Eleanor wanted me to get her a date with someone at Ripon. I said yes, and did. But Dick [her boyfriend] got wind of it and phoned me and asked if I would get him a date. So I did. Well, I believe Eleanor's date came, Dick's date came (I don't recall the details) and mine. For a few minutes there Cousin Frankie's living room was very crowded. Looking back on this I am amazed at myself. Eleanor had been going steady with Dick for some time and I was good friends with both. I think they rode together on the train going back and patched it up.
April 10, 2013
Best friends
(1980 memoirs)
I (the C in MICE) miss those girls and those days. I never have been with any friends who laughed more and had more fun, tho we had problems too. Well -- so I left them all and went to school.
I (the C in MICE) miss those girls and those days. I never have been with any friends who laughed more and had more fun, tho we had problems too. Well -- so I left them all and went to school.
April 9, 2013
Business
(1980 memoirs)
I was the only one [of the MICE] who went off to college. All the other girls took a business course and were excellent typists. El used to tell how she knew her boss didn't like it when she corrected his (dictated) errors, but he never said anyting to her!
I was the only one [of the MICE] who went off to college. All the other girls took a business course and were excellent typists. El used to tell how she knew her boss didn't like it when she corrected his (dictated) errors, but he never said anyting to her!
April 8, 2013
E as in Mice
(1980 memoirs)
Eleanor married Dick Lange and they ended up in California. She died a few years ago and he sold their home and moved in an apartment. He has since grown closer to his sisters and one year came in a van to see me and others in Wisconsin. He was an electrician -- worked for big companies....
Eleanor married Dick Lange and they ended up in California. She died a few years ago and he sold their home and moved in an apartment. He has since grown closer to his sisters and one year came in a van to see me and others in Wisconsin. He was an electrician -- worked for big companies....
April 7, 2013
I as in Mice
(1980 memoirs)
Irma married James Harbridge, built a house in Fond du Lac. He died not long ago and she lives there, often visiting one of her two daughters. I went with her brother Leonard for a while, a wonder at the piano.
Irma married James Harbridge, built a house in Fond du Lac. He died not long ago and she lives there, often visiting one of her two daughters. I went with her brother Leonard for a while, a wonder at the piano.
April 6, 2013
M as in Mice
Where are we [MICE] all now what were our lives? Margaret married Oliver Schmiedel and had a family of boys and they live in West Allis. On a couple of picnics, I was paired with a Marine brother of hers -- so much older than I.
April 5, 2013
Mice
(1980 memoirs)
Eleanor Coreth and I lived in one part of the town and Irma Warns and a girl they long knew, Margaret Brewster, lived in another end. So when we met to go to see Mary Pickford or Mary Miles Minter or Rudolph Valentino in The Shiek we had someone to walk home with. One day one of us, probably Irma, was struck with a brilliant Idea. Writing down our names -- Margaret, Irma, Carolyn, Eleanor -- she found, as you can plainly see yourself, they spelled MICE. So until this day we often sign our Xmas cards by the one letter.
Eleanor Coreth and I lived in one part of the town and Irma Warns and a girl they long knew, Margaret Brewster, lived in another end. So when we met to go to see Mary Pickford or Mary Miles Minter or Rudolph Valentino in The Shiek we had someone to walk home with. One day one of us, probably Irma, was struck with a brilliant Idea. Writing down our names -- Margaret, Irma, Carolyn, Eleanor -- she found, as you can plainly see yourself, they spelled MICE. So until this day we often sign our Xmas cards by the one letter.
April 4, 2013
Reading
(1980 memoirs)
We studied Merchant of Venice, Macbeth, Hamlet.... One semester we each took a magazine -- the Literary Digest maybe. This [class] lasted three years and all were sorry to see the end.
We studied Merchant of Venice, Macbeth, Hamlet.... One semester we each took a magazine -- the Literary Digest maybe. This [class] lasted three years and all were sorry to see the end.
April 3, 2013
Assignment book
(1980 memoirs)
[In Tess O'Brian's class] we each had an assignment book in which we were required to note the daily work assigned and copy questions to be answereed on the text. These were collected and graded. The object was to teach us good study habits and to be steady and neat.
[In Tess O'Brian's class] we each had an assignment book in which we were required to note the daily work assigned and copy questions to be answereed on the text. These were collected and graded. The object was to teach us good study habits and to be steady and neat.
April 1, 2013
Tess
(1980 memoirs)
Miss O'Brian taught us the fundamentals so that we knew why our mistakes were wrong, and taught us how to correct them. There was never any fooling around. She held our intent attention the full hour.
Miss O'Brian taught us the fundamentals so that we knew why our mistakes were wrong, and taught us how to correct them. There was never any fooling around. She held our intent attention the full hour.
March 28, 2013
Special English Class
(1980 memoirs)
Then someone in High School had a brilliant idea. This was to form a Special English Class made up of all the English A students from all the grade schools in town to be taught by Tess O'Brian, a splendid teacher and I went. Also some boys. One was later a senator -- what was his name? A judge. I wish I had a picture of this group.
Then someone in High School had a brilliant idea. This was to form a Special English Class made up of all the English A students from all the grade schools in town to be taught by Tess O'Brian, a splendid teacher and I went. Also some boys. One was later a senator -- what was his name? A judge. I wish I had a picture of this group.
March 21, 2013
Gawky
(1980 memoirs)
[At Fond du Lac's 8th grade] I was very gawky at first, being the only one who brot my lunch and all. I had the wrong shoes too, cloth tops that buttoned at the side. But after while I made some friends. There was Eleanor and her cousin Irma, and we often talked at recess.
[At Fond du Lac's 8th grade] I was very gawky at first, being the only one who brot my lunch and all. I had the wrong shoes too, cloth tops that buttoned at the side. But after while I made some friends. There was Eleanor and her cousin Irma, and we often talked at recess.
March 20, 2013
Another 8th grade
(1980 memoirs)
My parents could never have made a better decision [than sending me into town to repeat eighth grade]. The whole grade was new. Not a thing I ever learned in country school seemed to be repeated, tho it may have been. The teacher was about 40, slim, pretty, experienced, a good teacher.
My parents could never have made a better decision [than sending me into town to repeat eighth grade]. The whole grade was new. Not a thing I ever learned in country school seemed to be repeated, tho it may have been. The teacher was about 40, slim, pretty, experienced, a good teacher.
March 19, 2013
Repeat 8th grade
(1980 memoirs)
My parents could see I was poor in Arithmetic and probably never would pass and so arranged for me to go into town [Fond du Lac] and repeat Eighth Grade there. Of course city kids automatically went into high school.
My parents could see I was poor in Arithmetic and probably never would pass and so arranged for me to go into town [Fond du Lac] and repeat Eighth Grade there. Of course city kids automatically went into high school.
March 18, 2013
Arithmetic
(1980 memoirs)
I did pass some [parts of the entrance exam] but failed Arithmetic, probably because along the way one teacher, not wanting to bother with my being the only one in my class, shoved me ahead. So I was always very poor in that field and blamed it on this teacher.
I did pass some [parts of the entrance exam] but failed Arithmetic, probably because along the way one teacher, not wanting to bother with my being the only one in my class, shoved me ahead. So I was always very poor in that field and blamed it on this teacher.
March 17, 2013
Recite by heart
(1980 memoirs)
Our teacher was a leather-faced, seasoned old biddy who rode her bicycle to school every day until snow came, and she knew pretty well what the questions might be and primed us accordingly. All of us could recite by heart without taking a full breath the circulation of the blood beginning with "Starting at the left ventricle" -- or is it the right auricle? Does it matter? We also knew the causes of the Civil War, rules for spelling, the names of our senators, and a lot more.
Our teacher was a leather-faced, seasoned old biddy who rode her bicycle to school every day until snow came, and she knew pretty well what the questions might be and primed us accordingly. All of us could recite by heart without taking a full breath the circulation of the blood beginning with "Starting at the left ventricle" -- or is it the right auricle? Does it matter? We also knew the causes of the Civil War, rules for spelling, the names of our senators, and a lot more.
March 15, 2013
Ordeal
(1980 memoirs)
At that time graduates from Country School Eighth Grade had to write and pass an exam to enter High School. This was a terror. Imagine how frightened country kids can get who rarely go into town to go into a big strange building and write an entrance exam.
At that time graduates from Country School Eighth Grade had to write and pass an exam to enter High School. This was a terror. Imagine how frightened country kids can get who rarely go into town to go into a big strange building and write an entrance exam.
March 14, 2013
Teeny letters
(1980 memoirs)
I said [to Boobie] I guessed I could [write to him], and later when his mother also asked me to write I again said yes. I believe we each managed one or two letters. It was amazing how little there was to write about and how very interested we were in other things just then. I think he went to St. Johns but time hazes over facts like that for me.
I said [to Boobie] I guessed I could [write to him], and later when his mother also asked me to write I again said yes. I believe we each managed one or two letters. It was amazing how little there was to write about and how very interested we were in other things just then. I think he went to St. Johns but time hazes over facts like that for me.
March 12, 2013
My girl
(1980 memoirs)
While living on Ruepings' Estate, my brother and I often played Hide & Seek with the Rueping kids and their friends. One summer night Boobie and I were kneeling behind a bush when he gave me a very sweet kiss and said, "You're my girl now, Carrie. Will you write to me when I go away to school in the fall?"
While living on Ruepings' Estate, my brother and I often played Hide & Seek with the Rueping kids and their friends. One summer night Boobie and I were kneeling behind a bush when he gave me a very sweet kiss and said, "You're my girl now, Carrie. Will you write to me when I go away to school in the fall?"
March 11, 2013
Bad boy
(1980 memoirs)
So we walked back and forth to school. Sometimes I caught up with Lillian, usually I was alone. Neither she nor I cared for many other girls. On this day in late fall, I had walked home from school past her house coming home, not noticing Harry behind me. Suddenly he ran as fast as he could, grabbed me and threw me into the ditch, kissed me violently on one cheek, scrambled out and ran for home as fast as possible. My sole reaction was amazement. Who can understand boys? I picked myself up, brushed myself off and came on home bewildered, wondering what brot that on. Nothing more was ever said, ever done, and I somehow knew it was better to keep it to myself than make a to-do over it.
So we walked back and forth to school. Sometimes I caught up with Lillian, usually I was alone. Neither she nor I cared for many other girls. On this day in late fall, I had walked home from school past her house coming home, not noticing Harry behind me. Suddenly he ran as fast as he could, grabbed me and threw me into the ditch, kissed me violently on one cheek, scrambled out and ran for home as fast as possible. My sole reaction was amazement. Who can understand boys? I picked myself up, brushed myself off and came on home bewildered, wondering what brot that on. Nothing more was ever said, ever done, and I somehow knew it was better to keep it to myself than make a to-do over it.
March 10, 2013
Three vegetables
(1980 memoirs)
It was like the time Cousin Frankie brought to my attention how curious it was if you repeated the names of three vegetables in a row you got a very strange message. You have heard them I am sure. Who hasn't? Lettuce, turnip, and pea. Neither she nor I had the least inclination to laugh at that, either. Though peculiar.
It was like the time Cousin Frankie brought to my attention how curious it was if you repeated the names of three vegetables in a row you got a very strange message. You have heard them I am sure. Who hasn't? Lettuce, turnip, and pea. Neither she nor I had the least inclination to laugh at that, either. Though peculiar.
March 9, 2013
Hatchet
(1980 memoirs)
One February our teacher was talking about Lincoln and Washington and getting the first grade to color and cut out hatchets. When I looked over at Lillian, she was laughing silently, holding herself in, wiping her eyes, shaking all over. This went on for some time, and of course I was beside myself with curiosity. At length she whispered, "Listen. She's saying it again!" and stuffing her handkerchief over her mouth, she got red in the face and shook all over. Finally she passed me a note that said: "Listen when she says hot shit." Well, I did hear it, and even when it was pointed out to me, I couldn't laugh much. I just couldn't. Not funny.
One February our teacher was talking about Lincoln and Washington and getting the first grade to color and cut out hatchets. When I looked over at Lillian, she was laughing silently, holding herself in, wiping her eyes, shaking all over. This went on for some time, and of course I was beside myself with curiosity. At length she whispered, "Listen. She's saying it again!" and stuffing her handkerchief over her mouth, she got red in the face and shook all over. Finally she passed me a note that said: "Listen when she says hot shit." Well, I did hear it, and even when it was pointed out to me, I couldn't laugh much. I just couldn't. Not funny.
March 8, 2013
Lillian & Harry
(1980 memoirs)
Coming out of my front door, turning left was the way to country school [at Green Lake]. On the way I passed the farm where Lillian, my friend, lived with her family, including a brother, Harry. Lillian was a blonde with dimples and thin hair, a nice girl.
Coming out of my front door, turning left was the way to country school [at Green Lake]. On the way I passed the farm where Lillian, my friend, lived with her family, including a brother, Harry. Lillian was a blonde with dimples and thin hair, a nice girl.
March 7, 2013
Deceit
(1980 memoirs)
I must have been in 6th grade or so, going to country school, when I learned about deceit. It was spring and we were going to have a picnic lunch with games afterward. A rather new girl, Alice, said to me, "What are you going to wear tomorrow?" I said I hadn't given it any thought, to which she answered, "Let's not dress up at all. I am going to wear just some old thing I wear around home. Sitting on the ground and playing games, we might get our good Sunday clothes all torn and dirty." I agreed and surprised my mother by insisting on wearing quite an old dress. Imagine my innocent amazement when I laid eyes on Alice, beautiful in a brand-new dress outshining us all, especially me!
I must have been in 6th grade or so, going to country school, when I learned about deceit. It was spring and we were going to have a picnic lunch with games afterward. A rather new girl, Alice, said to me, "What are you going to wear tomorrow?" I said I hadn't given it any thought, to which she answered, "Let's not dress up at all. I am going to wear just some old thing I wear around home. Sitting on the ground and playing games, we might get our good Sunday clothes all torn and dirty." I agreed and surprised my mother by insisting on wearing quite an old dress. Imagine my innocent amazement when I laid eyes on Alice, beautiful in a brand-new dress outshining us all, especially me!
March 6, 2013
Some odd experiences
(1980 memoirs)
So four years [at Ripon] went by for me, on the whole pleasant and satisfactory. I suppose I was learning quite a few things. [I had already learned other things in grade school.] I remember back about some odd experiences with friends -- girls and boys too.
So four years [at Ripon] went by for me, on the whole pleasant and satisfactory. I suppose I was learning quite a few things. [I had already learned other things in grade school.] I remember back about some odd experiences with friends -- girls and boys too.
March 5, 2013
One dollar
(1980 memoirs)
One Sunday afternoon a carful of relatives from Fond du Lac, I among them, were out riding and stopped in to see Frankie. [Skip was there too, picked up from scout camp, in 1943.] She felt so bad because she couldn't ask us to supper, but we had no idea of stopping. After talking a while, we all piled back into the car for home. And here stood dear Frankie with a dollar bill pressing it on us to buy something to eat. We were not around the corner before they were all laughing so hard tears ran down their faces. A carfull -- probably seven or eight -- and Frankie expecting us all to have supper with the dollar bill she was pressing on us! Whoop! Did you ever know anything funnier? Well -- yes. Lots of things. In the first place, Frankie never ate out and had no idea how far her dollar would go. In the second place, I am sure it never entered her head to figure it out. She was not of their world nor they of hers, thank God.
One Sunday afternoon a carful of relatives from Fond du Lac, I among them, were out riding and stopped in to see Frankie. [Skip was there too, picked up from scout camp, in 1943.] She felt so bad because she couldn't ask us to supper, but we had no idea of stopping. After talking a while, we all piled back into the car for home. And here stood dear Frankie with a dollar bill pressing it on us to buy something to eat. We were not around the corner before they were all laughing so hard tears ran down their faces. A carfull -- probably seven or eight -- and Frankie expecting us all to have supper with the dollar bill she was pressing on us! Whoop! Did you ever know anything funnier? Well -- yes. Lots of things. In the first place, Frankie never ate out and had no idea how far her dollar would go. In the second place, I am sure it never entered her head to figure it out. She was not of their world nor they of hers, thank God.
March 4, 2013
The band and the button
(1980 memoirs)
The family regarded Frankie somewhat as a curiosity. At times I could see why. When Aunt Lois asked her for any old skirt or petticoat she might not be using, for a black edge around her braided rug, Frankie said she would see and rummaged in her closet. At length she found what she was after and showed it to Lois. The skirt was approved and accepted. Thanks were given and accepted. Then Frankie said, "Lois, if you have no use for the band and the button, I'd like to rip that off before you take it." My aunt's lips twitched but she controlled herself, at least until she drove off in her Ford. They never forgot it. If a garment were handed down forevermore, one or the other would say, "Are you sure you don't need the band and the button?" Roars and gales of laughter! I never thought that was so funny. If she were making another skirt, the band and button would come in handy, and Lois didn't need it.
The family regarded Frankie somewhat as a curiosity. At times I could see why. When Aunt Lois asked her for any old skirt or petticoat she might not be using, for a black edge around her braided rug, Frankie said she would see and rummaged in her closet. At length she found what she was after and showed it to Lois. The skirt was approved and accepted. Thanks were given and accepted. Then Frankie said, "Lois, if you have no use for the band and the button, I'd like to rip that off before you take it." My aunt's lips twitched but she controlled herself, at least until she drove off in her Ford. They never forgot it. If a garment were handed down forevermore, one or the other would say, "Are you sure you don't need the band and the button?" Roars and gales of laughter! I never thought that was so funny. If she were making another skirt, the band and button would come in handy, and Lois didn't need it.
March 3, 2013
Mild and pleasant
(1980 memoirs)
Frankie's manner was always mild and pleasant. She held in anger because she felt it was the right thing to do. I have never seen her in any excess of joy or hatred, anger or love. Always thoughtful, at times forgetful, never unkind, never revengeful.
Frankie's manner was always mild and pleasant. She held in anger because she felt it was the right thing to do. I have never seen her in any excess of joy or hatred, anger or love. Always thoughtful, at times forgetful, never unkind, never revengeful.
February 27, 2013
Hair
(1980 memoirs)
Her hair, brown and long, was attractively wound into a bun on the top of her head. She was never without glasses, very likely with no rims.
Her hair, brown and long, was attractively wound into a bun on the top of her head. She was never without glasses, very likely with no rims.
February 25, 2013
February 24, 2013
Skirts
(1980 memoirs)
Her skirts were ample, cut often in four gore fashion, and covered her shoe tops. Skirts were plain solid dark colors; shirtwaists were usually striped, plaid, ornamented often with braid.
Her skirts were ample, cut often in four gore fashion, and covered her shoe tops. Skirts were plain solid dark colors; shirtwaists were usually striped, plaid, ornamented often with braid.
February 23, 2013
Shirtwaists
(1980 memoirs)
The shirtwaists always had collars, usually the stand-up kind, long sleeves, often with cuffs, buttoned down the front. There were calico ones for morning work and dressy ones for afternoon and evening.
The shirtwaists always had collars, usually the stand-up kind, long sleeves, often with cuffs, buttoned down the front. There were calico ones for morning work and dressy ones for afternoon and evening.
February 22, 2013
How Frankie looked
(1980 memoirs)
Before leaving my dear cousin, I must tell you how she dressed, how she looked. She was rather a large boned woman, bigger than I, dressed always out of style, always the same. It was as if in her girlhood she found skirts and shirtwaists suited her, never wore them out and never replaced them.
Before leaving my dear cousin, I must tell you how she dressed, how she looked. She was rather a large boned woman, bigger than I, dressed always out of style, always the same. It was as if in her girlhood she found skirts and shirtwaists suited her, never wore them out and never replaced them.
February 20, 2013
The privy
(1980 memoirs)
Are you wondering why she kept the privy? Well, why not? What if the inside toilet broke some day? or the water froze or was turned off? Where should we be then? It was a little house, scrubbed clean and unused, just kept in readiness. And one early November day when we had an early mean biting stinging snowfall, here my dear cousin was -- on top of the outhouse, nailing down a few new shingles she had been meaning to get at all summer long.
Are you wondering why she kept the privy? Well, why not? What if the inside toilet broke some day? or the water froze or was turned off? Where should we be then? It was a little house, scrubbed clean and unused, just kept in readiness. And one early November day when we had an early mean biting stinging snowfall, here my dear cousin was -- on top of the outhouse, nailing down a few new shingles she had been meaning to get at all summer long.
February 19, 2013
Shortcake!
(1980 memoirs)
We were going to have Shortcake! And so we did. Here in the middle of the table was a wonderful strawberry short cake, and at our places we each had a small plate, fork and spoon. Nothing else at all. I think I just ate one big piece, but they kept on, piece after piece, until it was all all gone! The crust was warm and brown and crunchy on the outside, a good crumb within. And the berries, sweet of themselves, were also sugared and so delicious! I have never seen a meal more enjoyed, bite for bite -- right to the last berry.
We were going to have Shortcake! And so we did. Here in the middle of the table was a wonderful strawberry short cake, and at our places we each had a small plate, fork and spoon. Nothing else at all. I think I just ate one big piece, but they kept on, piece after piece, until it was all all gone! The crust was warm and brown and crunchy on the outside, a good crumb within. And the berries, sweet of themselves, were also sugared and so delicious! I have never seen a meal more enjoyed, bite for bite -- right to the last berry.
February 18, 2013
Menu
(1980 memoirs)
There was one meal [at Cousin Frankie's] I have never in my life forgotten which was different from all the others. For some reason Lucretia was gone, Henry alone, and Frankie invited him for supper. It was June; and beaming, she told me the menu -- shortcake. She was going to town to get the berries that very morning. I said, "Fine. And what else?" -- why nothing else. We were going to have Shortcake!
There was one meal [at Cousin Frankie's] I have never in my life forgotten which was different from all the others. For some reason Lucretia was gone, Henry alone, and Frankie invited him for supper. It was June; and beaming, she told me the menu -- shortcake. She was going to town to get the berries that very morning. I said, "Fine. And what else?" -- why nothing else. We were going to have Shortcake!
February 17, 2013
Tabletalk
(1980 memoirs)
Supper [with Frankie] was always laid out in the dining room properly. And how well I remember our discussions! We talked about all our family members, the family tree, New England, Floridy, Ripon, the College years ago, the professors, which ones were ministers of the Gospel and often held the services in the Congregational Church, which was part of Ripon College; we talked about Russia, a lot about religion and beliefs, customs, manners, the neighbors, the "creatures," and of course ourselves.
Supper [with Frankie] was always laid out in the dining room properly. And how well I remember our discussions! We talked about all our family members, the family tree, New England, Floridy, Ripon, the College years ago, the professors, which ones were ministers of the Gospel and often held the services in the Congregational Church, which was part of Ripon College; we talked about Russia, a lot about religion and beliefs, customs, manners, the neighbors, the "creatures," and of course ourselves.
February 16, 2013
Handy
(1980 memoirs)
So these two meals [breakfast & lunch] were usually eaten on a shelf that pulled down or out from the pass-thru cupboard. A neat white linen towel served as tablecloth, and the service was laid out as neatly and fine as if it were in the dining room. Everything was indeed very close and very handy!
So these two meals [breakfast & lunch] were usually eaten on a shelf that pulled down or out from the pass-thru cupboard. A neat white linen towel served as tablecloth, and the service was laid out as neatly and fine as if it were in the dining room. Everything was indeed very close and very handy!
February 15, 2013
T-days
(1980 memoirs)
And where did we eat? Breakfasts were hasty because I mustn't be late, and lunch was in a hurry too, especially on "T Days," Tuesdays and Thursdays, when I had an early afternoon class....
And where did we eat? Breakfasts were hasty because I mustn't be late, and lunch was in a hurry too, especially on "T Days," Tuesdays and Thursdays, when I had an early afternoon class....
February 14, 2013
An excellent cook
(1980 memoirs)
And Frankie was unexpectedly an excellent cook. Her pie crusts were always thin and flakey. The beef steak was never burned. The mashed potatoes were never lumpy.
And Frankie was unexpectedly an excellent cook. Her pie crusts were always thin and flakey. The beef steak was never burned. The mashed potatoes were never lumpy.
February 13, 2013
Cleanliness
(1980 memoirs)
I want to make it clear, that tho Frankie's kitchen was old fashioned, all the work was carried out with utmost cleanliness. The rolled edges of pans were not only scoured, but traced with a toothpick in case a trace of food remained there. A kettle was kept boiling on a low burner to provide water to pour over every dish every time.
I want to make it clear, that tho Frankie's kitchen was old fashioned, all the work was carried out with utmost cleanliness. The rolled edges of pans were not only scoured, but traced with a toothpick in case a trace of food remained there. A kettle was kept boiling on a low burner to provide water to pour over every dish every time.
February 12, 2013
Kitchen stuff
(1980 memoirs)
Necessary arrangements included a pump for soft water to wash the hands, with wash basin beneath; a gas stove; a sturdy work table used to roll out pie crusts, mix puddings, peel vegetables and finally, with two large pans, one for soapy water and one for hot clear water, to wash the dishes.
Necessary arrangements included a pump for soft water to wash the hands, with wash basin beneath; a gas stove; a sturdy work table used to roll out pie crusts, mix puddings, peel vegetables and finally, with two large pans, one for soapy water and one for hot clear water, to wash the dishes.
February 11, 2013
Cages
(1980 memoirs)
Now on this plant table or perhaps another by the woodbox near the back door were various cages for the butterflies and moths. These held the branches they were found on and also more of the same vegetation to munch away the hours on (providing it was fall and it was about to spin its chrysalis, of course).
Now on this plant table or perhaps another by the woodbox near the back door were various cages for the butterflies and moths. These held the branches they were found on and also more of the same vegetation to munch away the hours on (providing it was fall and it was about to spin its chrysalis, of course).
February 10, 2013
Avacado
(1980 memoirs)
Once Frankie had coaxed an avacado pit to come out of its shell and sprout to a distance of five feet! Then it gave up and died. I think a date followed the same history.
Once Frankie had coaxed an avacado pit to come out of its shell and sprout to a distance of five feet! Then it gave up and died. I think a date followed the same history.
February 9, 2013
Begonias and geraniums
(1980 memoirs)
Against the window [in Frankie's kitchen] wasa long sturdy unvarnished table bearing up well under a variety of old worn out plants such as geraniums and begonias. But who could bear to throw them out?
Against the window [in Frankie's kitchen] wasa long sturdy unvarnished table bearing up well under a variety of old worn out plants such as geraniums and begonias. But who could bear to throw them out?
February 8, 2013
Kitchen
(1980 memoirs)
No matter how clean and straight and impersonal a living room and dining room may be kept, it is often the kitchen that breaks this formality and reveals the true soul of the owner. And so it was in Miss Clapp's domain.
No matter how clean and straight and impersonal a living room and dining room may be kept, it is often the kitchen that breaks this formality and reveals the true soul of the owner. And so it was in Miss Clapp's domain.
February 7, 2013
Parrot
(1980 memoirs)
Once Lorin gave me a lamp with a parrot on it -- for Polly -- and that was somewhere about [my bedroom]. The chairs were handwoven cane seated and nobody thought twice about it. And of course a mirror hung on the wall -- for me.
Once Lorin gave me a lamp with a parrot on it -- for Polly -- and that was somewhere about [my bedroom]. The chairs were handwoven cane seated and nobody thought twice about it. And of course a mirror hung on the wall -- for me.
February 6, 2013
Maid service
(1980 memoirs)
Frankie would also bring fresh towels for my wash stand, probably dust the huge massive chest of drawers with little glove and handkerchief drawers on each side of the top, run the carpet sweeper too.
Frankie would also bring fresh towels for my wash stand, probably dust the huge massive chest of drawers with little glove and handkerchief drawers on each side of the top, run the carpet sweeper too.
February 5, 2013
Change-the-bed day
(1980 memoirs)
Ordinary every-day days, I should pull the feather bed straight to make the bed; or if I were late, just pile out and not make it at all. But on Change-the-Bed Day, Cousin Frankie, the darling, would come up, shake the whole thing up fluffy and high and make it all up for me! How could I have let her do so much for me and do so little in return? I cannot answer this except to say I was very busy and she was Kindness itself.
Ordinary every-day days, I should pull the feather bed straight to make the bed; or if I were late, just pile out and not make it at all. But on Change-the-Bed Day, Cousin Frankie, the darling, would come up, shake the whole thing up fluffy and high and make it all up for me! How could I have let her do so much for me and do so little in return? I cannot answer this except to say I was very busy and she was Kindness itself.
February 4, 2013
My bed
(1980 memoirs)
Now I will tell you about my bed. It was a single walnut bed with a medium sized, quite usual, head and foot; and a usual mattress. But on this mattress now and for the only time in my whole life was a wonderful feather bed! Oh, the luxury of it.
Now I will tell you about my bed. It was a single walnut bed with a medium sized, quite usual, head and foot; and a usual mattress. But on this mattress now and for the only time in my whole life was a wonderful feather bed! Oh, the luxury of it.
February 2, 2013
Oppportunity
(1980 memoirs)
And one night after a gala weekend in Madison with Lorin, then at the University, I was in a bus leaving town, when in a triangular store window I saw a whole wonderful set of Fode Blue, just like hers. O! How I wanted to call out! Stop the bus! Know the name of the store so I could write! But on we went. --And I? I sank back in the seat knowing it was gone forever. It was, too. I never in my whole life saw any pieces like it any more.
And one night after a gala weekend in Madison with Lorin, then at the University, I was in a bus leaving town, when in a triangular store window I saw a whole wonderful set of Fode Blue, just like hers. O! How I wanted to call out! Stop the bus! Know the name of the store so I could write! But on we went. --And I? I sank back in the seat knowing it was gone forever. It was, too. I never in my whole life saw any pieces like it any more.
February 1, 2013
Fode blue
(1980 memoirs)
My room has its window facing the street, a thin carpet on the floor, and a large closet on the left. One time I brought my mother's Fode Blue wedding china with me, what was left of it, thinking to be very collegiate and have tea in my room some day. But alas! The shelf came down, smashing all the cups and saucers, leaving me only a few eight-sided plates. I felt very bad about that.
My room has its window facing the street, a thin carpet on the floor, and a large closet on the left. One time I brought my mother's Fode Blue wedding china with me, what was left of it, thinking to be very collegiate and have tea in my room some day. But alas! The shelf came down, smashing all the cups and saucers, leaving me only a few eight-sided plates. I felt very bad about that.
January 31, 2013
Telephone
(1980 memoirs)
And to get up there [on the stairs to my room] you pass the telephone, sitting on the steps, so when you answer it all you do is close the door and you are as private as in any kiosk and you are sitting down besides.
And to get up there [on the stairs to my room] you pass the telephone, sitting on the steps, so when you answer it all you do is close the door and you are as private as in any kiosk and you are sitting down besides.
January 30, 2013
Square hall
(1980 memoirs)
Just a minute! I have forgotten a very important little vestibule-like hall between the living room and dining room. This four feet by four feet space had four doors; if you are coming from the living room, there is the living room door behind you, the dining room door ahead of you, and on the right the door to the renter's apartment and on the left -- ah, that is the door to the stairs. And up the stairs is my room.
Just a minute! I have forgotten a very important little vestibule-like hall between the living room and dining room. This four feet by four feet space had four doors; if you are coming from the living room, there is the living room door behind you, the dining room door ahead of you, and on the right the door to the renter's apartment and on the left -- ah, that is the door to the stairs. And up the stairs is my room.
January 29, 2013
Bare fawcett
(1980 memoirs)
that about all [about the dining room], except I do think there was a faucett, a bare fawcett, with a pail underneath for drinking water.
that about all [about the dining room], except I do think there was a faucett, a bare fawcett, with a pail underneath for drinking water.
January 28, 2013
Pass-thru cupboard
(1980 memoirs)
I already mentioned the sideboard Frankie made, but I haven't told about the cupboard somewhat behind the stove -- this was a pass-thru arrangement, but we rarely used it for that because all the dishes were arranged to be reached from the kitchen.
I already mentioned the sideboard Frankie made, but I haven't told about the cupboard somewhat behind the stove -- this was a pass-thru arrangement, but we rarely used it for that because all the dishes were arranged to be reached from the kitchen.
January 27, 2013
Sash curtains
(1980 memoirs)
All the windows [of Frankie's dining room] had sash curtains, white, gathered on small rods, covering the lower half of the glass only.
All the windows [of Frankie's dining room] had sash curtains, white, gathered on small rods, covering the lower half of the glass only.
January 26, 2013
Trap door
(1980 memoirs)
The floor [of Frankie's dining room] was of wide painted boards, that shade of tan with a dash of orange in it so often seen. To the left there was a large square cut as for a trap door, with an iron ring to lift it up. Underneath was sort of a cistern to store rainwater, and I saw it once or twice -- rather spooky.
The floor [of Frankie's dining room] was of wide painted boards, that shade of tan with a dash of orange in it so often seen. To the left there was a large square cut as for a trap door, with an iron ring to lift it up. Underneath was sort of a cistern to store rainwater, and I saw it once or twice -- rather spooky.
January 25, 2013
Dining room
(1980 memoirs)
But you want to know more about Cousin Frankie's house, don't you? Well, come on then, we'll go into the dining room. This is a square room with windows on opposite walls. There is a good sized dining table and chairs in the center, and behind, or beyond, a range to cook on. We had this going in bitter winter weather when we ate our suppers here.
But you want to know more about Cousin Frankie's house, don't you? Well, come on then, we'll go into the dining room. This is a square room with windows on opposite walls. There is a good sized dining table and chairs in the center, and behind, or beyond, a range to cook on. We had this going in bitter winter weather when we ate our suppers here.
January 24, 2013
Frankie's bedroom
(1980 memoirs)
Still on this wall, now is the door to her room, open unless she was washing or dressing. It wasn't like a real bedroom at all. She slept on sort of a cot and this was always covered with a dark woven spread of some kind; no pillows ever seen. The wash stand was off to one side, away from the door, and a cane bottom straight chair or two. That was about all. The clothes were always in the deep closet. On both rooms the floor had a thick dark rug.
Still on this wall, now is the door to her room, open unless she was washing or dressing. It wasn't like a real bedroom at all. She slept on sort of a cot and this was always covered with a dark woven spread of some kind; no pillows ever seen. The wash stand was off to one side, away from the door, and a cane bottom straight chair or two. That was about all. The clothes were always in the deep closet. On both rooms the floor had a thick dark rug.
January 23, 2013
Starfish and crab
(1980 memoirs)
What does it matter about the train trip [to Florida] or the town decided on? The big thing was that they were right on the ocean; and so Frankie could study the marine life and gather shells. And how she loved getting out the spiny starfish and bottled fiddler crab and telling Lorin all about them! She rarely had an audience, and he never had such an ardent lecture! None of his relatives with the exception of Auntie Mabel ever could care enough to bring such treasures home. And Mabel wasn't an animal lover.
What does it matter about the train trip [to Florida] or the town decided on? The big thing was that they were right on the ocean; and so Frankie could study the marine life and gather shells. And how she loved getting out the spiny starfish and bottled fiddler crab and telling Lorin all about them! She rarely had an audience, and he never had such an ardent lecture! None of his relatives with the exception of Auntie Mabel ever could care enough to bring such treasures home. And Mabel wasn't an animal lover.
January 22, 2013
Floridy
(1980 memoirs)
Before leaving this wall [with a bookcase] I must say that under this bookcase were shelves which held other treasures. One time a doctor had told Henry [Clapp] that "if he wanted to make a good recovery" from whatever it was he had, he had to go "to Floridy" where it was warm. As it was not advisable for him to go off alone, sick, and Frankie was the only one not needed at home, it was decided she should accompany him.
Before leaving this wall [with a bookcase] I must say that under this bookcase were shelves which held other treasures. One time a doctor had told Henry [Clapp] that "if he wanted to make a good recovery" from whatever it was he had, he had to go "to Floridy" where it was warm. As it was not advisable for him to go off alone, sick, and Frankie was the only one not needed at home, it was decided she should accompany him.
January 21, 2013
Alone again
(1980 memoirs)
So Lorin studied and I taught school and at last we were married. I never wanted to do one thing in my life except to be where he was and share in his life, and now that I am alone again, the time is so dull and so long.
So Lorin studied and I taught school and at last we were married. I never wanted to do one thing in my life except to be where he was and share in his life, and now that I am alone again, the time is so dull and so long.
January 18, 2013
Five years too long
(1980 Memoirs )
Imagine if you can the tears and parting, the letters back and forth, the presents, the few visits, the planning, the heart breaking misunderstandings -- five years is too long. But you see, at that time [late 1920s] a man didn't marry unless he could support his wife and maintain a home and provide for his children. And it takes a long spell for a lawyer to go thru school and be good enough to hang out his shingle.
Imagine if you can the tears and parting, the letters back and forth, the presents, the few visits, the planning, the heart breaking misunderstandings -- five years is too long. But you see, at that time [late 1920s] a man didn't marry unless he could support his wife and maintain a home and provide for his children. And it takes a long spell for a lawyer to go thru school and be good enough to hang out his shingle.
January 17, 2013
Engagement
(1980 memoirs)
Lorin and I had just had a couple of dates that fall, gone to a Hallowe'en movie, came home and were sitting on that very sofa I described, when he asked me to marry him. I liked him so much I said yes and we were engaged and got acquainted later. This was the first night of a five year engagement, unheard of to-day.
Lorin and I had just had a couple of dates that fall, gone to a Hallowe'en movie, came home and were sitting on that very sofa I described, when he asked me to marry him. I liked him so much I said yes and we were engaged and got acquainted later. This was the first night of a five year engagement, unheard of to-day.
January 16, 2013
What Lorin thought
(1980 memoirs)
Looking back on it all, I try to think what Lorin thought about Frankie, about her house and all -- And I have an idea he was really enchanted. When you know he loved A Kiss for Cinderella, Peter Pan, Snow White and the Seven Dorfs (that's the way Skip said it) you can guess what he thot of when stepped in the door. Charming, whimsical, amusing, a seeker of truth and of love, he cared about me.
Looking back on it all, I try to think what Lorin thought about Frankie, about her house and all -- And I have an idea he was really enchanted. When you know he loved A Kiss for Cinderella, Peter Pan, Snow White and the Seven Dorfs (that's the way Skip said it) you can guess what he thot of when stepped in the door. Charming, whimsical, amusing, a seeker of truth and of love, he cared about me.
January 13, 2013
Mormans
(1980 memoirs)
Now for the last wall [of Frankie's living room], opposite the organ. Here was the built-in bookcase, and next to it near the couch hung the striking clock. The bookcase held very few books, some dreary ones of religious tracts; and the one most frequently taken down was the one about the Mormons, about which she often discoursed; it reveals their wickedness. The leaders often went out at night and murdered the men who were against them and buried them too; so no one ever knew what had become of them! And then they had so many wives and of course children. This single conduct would set dear cousin Frankie all a quiver with righteous wrath and her glasses all a tremble on her pious nose. Dear dear cousin, I am glad you never knew how wicked the world really is. It would break your heart.
Now for the last wall [of Frankie's living room], opposite the organ. Here was the built-in bookcase, and next to it near the couch hung the striking clock. The bookcase held very few books, some dreary ones of religious tracts; and the one most frequently taken down was the one about the Mormons, about which she often discoursed; it reveals their wickedness. The leaders often went out at night and murdered the men who were against them and buried them too; so no one ever knew what had become of them! And then they had so many wives and of course children. This single conduct would set dear cousin Frankie all a quiver with righteous wrath and her glasses all a tremble on her pious nose. Dear dear cousin, I am glad you never knew how wicked the world really is. It would break your heart.
January 12, 2013
Coal stove
(1980 memoirs)
In this part of the [Clapp] living room was a four-sided coal stove, and we loved to see the fire thru the isenglass. Every night Frankie hoisted up a hod of hard coal and poured it in the top, adjusting the drafts. In the morning, drafts were opened, ashes poked down, heat enjoyed. Not once did she ever let me do one thing about the stove; I neither brought in the coal nor took the ashes out. I did offer at first, but was turned down. Once Lorin took the bucket of coal from her and poured it in the top, and she was quite surprised that he could do it well. Oh, that stove! Old fashioned and out of style, but how glowing it stood with the nickle trim gleaming and the black outlining its true shape.
In this part of the [Clapp] living room was a four-sided coal stove, and we loved to see the fire thru the isenglass. Every night Frankie hoisted up a hod of hard coal and poured it in the top, adjusting the drafts. In the morning, drafts were opened, ashes poked down, heat enjoyed. Not once did she ever let me do one thing about the stove; I neither brought in the coal nor took the ashes out. I did offer at first, but was turned down. Once Lorin took the bucket of coal from her and poured it in the top, and she was quite surprised that he could do it well. Oh, that stove! Old fashioned and out of style, but how glowing it stood with the nickle trim gleaming and the black outlining its true shape.
January 11, 2013
To read & doze
(1980 memoirs)
Here [on Frankie's couch] she would sit to read because the light was good until sleep overcame her, afternoon or evening, and then she would doze off covered with a shawl, mouth open, not a pretty sight, no - but rather amusing and endearing.
Here [on Frankie's couch] she would sit to read because the light was good until sleep overcame her, afternoon or evening, and then she would doze off covered with a shawl, mouth open, not a pretty sight, no - but rather amusing and endearing.
January 10, 2013
Back side yard
(1980 memoirs)
In the wall behind [the couch] was a window that looked out upon the side yard onto a clothes reel, round, with wooden side walk leading to the privy (no longer used) and woodshed.
In the wall behind [the couch] was a window that looked out upon the side yard onto a clothes reel, round, with wooden side walk leading to the privy (no longer used) and woodshed.
January 9, 2013
Velvet couch
(1980 memoirs)
Next to the desk [in Frankie's living room] was a very old green velvet tufted couch the likes of which I have never seen since. It would seat two when the arms at each end were pulled up. It was not very well padded and you could always feel the springs.
Next to the desk [in Frankie's living room] was a very old green velvet tufted couch the likes of which I have never seen since. It would seat two when the arms at each end were pulled up. It was not very well padded and you could always feel the springs.
January 8, 2013
Polly's desk
(1980 memoirs)
Now [in my description of Frankie's living room] comes the wall opposite the front door. This had an ordinary closing door, which led directly into the dining room. Then came a small desk, which was mine to study at.
Now [in my description of Frankie's living room] comes the wall opposite the front door. This had an ordinary closing door, which led directly into the dining room. Then came a small desk, which was mine to study at.
January 7, 2013
Unused organ
(1980 memoirs)
Next [in Frankie's living room] came the organ, which I don't believe she ever mastered. [It was to be the one heirloom that her grand-nephew wanted.]
Next [in Frankie's living room] came the organ, which I don't believe she ever mastered. [It was to be the one heirloom that her grand-nephew wanted.]
January 5, 2013
Coat tree
(Memoirs 1980)
Then [in Frankie's living room] was a brass "tree" for hanging your hat and coat. I frequently hung my red slicker there, and Cousin Frankie said one day, "Whenever I see that, I am reminded of a big red pepper." Lorin sometimes hung his yellow slicker there too, but it always looked out of place with its black slogans and college guff.
Then [in Frankie's living room] was a brass "tree" for hanging your hat and coat. I frequently hung my red slicker there, and Cousin Frankie said one day, "Whenever I see that, I am reminded of a big red pepper." Lorin sometimes hung his yellow slicker there too, but it always looked out of place with its black slogans and college guff.
January 4, 2013
China cupboard
(1980 memoirs)
In Frankie's dining room stood a large china cupboard lined with a pleasant red calico and filled with dishes I loved. The sauce dishes were rectangular in shape, about 2 1/2 X 6, and I have never seen any like them since. Cup hooks were evenly spaced, everything thought out and beautifully constructed. The outside had some hand carving but was not too ornate. The whole was probably walnut. And this dear soul sawed every board, pounded in every nail, everything all by herself! It was amazing to me then and more so now.
In Frankie's dining room stood a large china cupboard lined with a pleasant red calico and filled with dishes I loved. The sauce dishes were rectangular in shape, about 2 1/2 X 6, and I have never seen any like them since. Cup hooks were evenly spaced, everything thought out and beautifully constructed. The outside had some hand carving but was not too ornate. The whole was probably walnut. And this dear soul sawed every board, pounded in every nail, everything all by herself! It was amazing to me then and more so now.
January 3, 2013
Pie table
(Memoirs 1980)
Now I'll go on about Frankie's house. As you came over the porch, level with the street, you entered directly into the living room. At your right was one of those small ornamental tables. A Pie Table? I forget. But the whole top turned about, in the top of which was a triangular pie-shaped piece on small brass hinges that could open up. A few inches, probably four, down, was a divided section, exactly the dimensions of the top revolving piece, so that you could open the aperature and spin the top around to the compartment you wished, to get out your cloves or whatever you had put in it.
Now I'll go on about Frankie's house. As you came over the porch, level with the street, you entered directly into the living room. At your right was one of those small ornamental tables. A Pie Table? I forget. But the whole top turned about, in the top of which was a triangular pie-shaped piece on small brass hinges that could open up. A few inches, probably four, down, was a divided section, exactly the dimensions of the top revolving piece, so that you could open the aperature and spin the top around to the compartment you wished, to get out your cloves or whatever you had put in it.
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