Monday, June 30, 2014
Denver Airport
I have been traveling and I was interested to see this first World War era airplane in the Denver airport. It caught my eye because it was used by the Signal Corps which Herb mentioned as a possible group with which to serve. Looking at that airplane, I have to conclude that those pilots were some brave men.
Friday, June 27, 2014
Archduke Ferdinand is assassinated
Tomorrow marks the 100 year anniversary of the event that started it all.
It also marks the 95th anniversary of the Versailles Treaty.
As learned from the History Channel:
See original image here.
On a side note, as I was writing this post I looked a little more closely at the History Channel's information. I thought it serendipitous that today also happens to be the day in 1844 when Joseph Smith, the founder of the Mormon religion, was killed in his jail cell. As an on-line genealogists I owe a lot to the Latter Day Saints for their record keeping - and I am under the impression that Ancestry.com may have originated from their efforts.
It also marks the 95th anniversary of the Versailles Treaty.
As learned from the History Channel:
On this day in 1914, Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria and his wife Sophie are shot to death by a Bosnian Serb nationalist during an official visit to the Bosnian capital of Sarajevo. The killings sparked a chain of events that led to the outbreak of World War I by early August. On June 28, 1919, five years to the day after Franz Ferdinand's death, Germany and the Allied Powers signed the Treaty of Versailles, officially marking the end of World War I.
The archduke traveled to Sarajevo in June 1914 to inspect the imperial armed forces in Bosnia and Herzegovina, annexed by Austria-Hungary in 1908. The annexation had angered Serbian nationalists, who believed the territories should be part of Serbia. A group of young nationalists hatched a plot to kill the archduke during his visit to Sarajevo, and after some missteps, 19-year-old Gavrilo Princip was able to shoot the royal couple at point-blank range, while they traveled in their official procession, killing both almost instantly.
The assassination set off a rapid chain of events, as Austria-Hungary immediately blamed the Serbian government for the attack. As large and powerful Russia supported Serbia, Austria asked for assurances that Germany would step in on its side against Russia and its allies, including France and possibly Great Britain. On July 28, Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia, and the fragile peace between Europe's great powers collapsed, beginning the devastating conflict now known as the First World War.
After more than four years of bloodshed, the Great War ended on November 11, 1918, after Germany, the last of the Central Powers, surrendered to the Allies. At the peace conference in Paris in 1919, Allied leaders would state their desire to build a post-war world that was safe from future wars of such enormous scale. The Versailles Treaty, signed on June 28, 1919, tragically failed to achieve this objective. U.S. President Woodrow Wilson's grand dreams of an international peace-keeping organization faltered when put into practice as the League of Nations. Even worse, the harsh terms imposed on Germany, the war's biggest loser, led to widespread resentment of the treaty and its authors in that country--a resentment that would culminate in the outbreak of the Second World War two decades later.
On a side note, as I was writing this post I looked a little more closely at the History Channel's information. I thought it serendipitous that today also happens to be the day in 1844 when Joseph Smith, the founder of the Mormon religion, was killed in his jail cell. As an on-line genealogists I owe a lot to the Latter Day Saints for their record keeping - and I am under the impression that Ancestry.com may have originated from their efforts.
Thursday, June 26, 2014
Photographs
I believe I may have 3 of the photographs Herb mentions, though I can only put my hands on two at the moment. Interestingly, they are slightly different from one another - they have been colored or shaded, it seems. (Found the third photograph!)
I don't know who this Marine might be.
And still no more about this Karolyn!
Wednesday (August 15), 1917
Dear Mother,
I arrived back from NY this morning about 5:30 so I’m pretty sleepy especially as I put in the day on the sanitary police squad – cleaning up around the grounds.
I had a very fine visit with Charlie and Grace. I reached the house Monday night about ten and we had a fine talk then. In the morning I went over to the city with Charlie and went in to the office. Mr. Pomeroy was out of town on a vacation and Mr. Case was not in. Mr. Case has been away a lot lately which is probably the reason that you didn’t receive he check sooner. Went out to lunch with Mr. Friedman. Right after lunch I went back to Jersey. Bill what’s his name and Blanche were there for supper and stayed all night. You know the couple I mean. He went to Stevens and was a great boyhood friend of Charlie’s. I left about 1 o’clock and had to wait most 2 hours in Jersey City for the 2:20 to Allentown.
I had a half dozen photographs ordered in N.Y. He took four poses so one of them should turn out all right. I wanted them in time for Mothers birthday but it couldn’t be done. I ordered one sent to Charlie’s, one to Karolyn and the other four to you. I suppose you’d better give one to Aunt Ada and one to Aunt Burdella. Pass them around as far as they’ll go.
I had my last paratyphoid inoculation to day. Nothing left now but small pox vaccination. Tomorrow my heart and lungs will be examined by experts. They are going over all the men in camp looking for T.B.
That picture of Marine wasn’t focused very well, was it. Still I was very glad to get it. Did she pick out that pose herself.
I can’t figure out how Frank Bergen got by the examining board. They seem to be making little tin gods out of the drafted men, don’t they. I guess it’s that way in every city. The volunteers aren’t even mentioned.
We were paid Monday afternoon. Just in time since I wanted to go to New York.
As you know Karolyn has always wanted to be a nurse. Since she can’t get a school her father’s objections don’t hold water. She tried to get in the Albany Hospital a couple of months ago but there were no openings. She could get in at Bridgeport and its more or less like home to her there. All her father’s and mother’s people live there.
Love to all
Herbert
I don't know who this Marine might be.
And still no more about this Karolyn!
Wednesday (August 15), 1917
Dear Mother,
I arrived back from NY this morning about 5:30 so I’m pretty sleepy especially as I put in the day on the sanitary police squad – cleaning up around the grounds.
I had a very fine visit with Charlie and Grace. I reached the house Monday night about ten and we had a fine talk then. In the morning I went over to the city with Charlie and went in to the office. Mr. Pomeroy was out of town on a vacation and Mr. Case was not in. Mr. Case has been away a lot lately which is probably the reason that you didn’t receive he check sooner. Went out to lunch with Mr. Friedman. Right after lunch I went back to Jersey. Bill what’s his name and Blanche were there for supper and stayed all night. You know the couple I mean. He went to Stevens and was a great boyhood friend of Charlie’s. I left about 1 o’clock and had to wait most 2 hours in Jersey City for the 2:20 to Allentown.
I had a half dozen photographs ordered in N.Y. He took four poses so one of them should turn out all right. I wanted them in time for Mothers birthday but it couldn’t be done. I ordered one sent to Charlie’s, one to Karolyn and the other four to you. I suppose you’d better give one to Aunt Ada and one to Aunt Burdella. Pass them around as far as they’ll go.
I had my last paratyphoid inoculation to day. Nothing left now but small pox vaccination. Tomorrow my heart and lungs will be examined by experts. They are going over all the men in camp looking for T.B.
That picture of Marine wasn’t focused very well, was it. Still I was very glad to get it. Did she pick out that pose herself.
I can’t figure out how Frank Bergen got by the examining board. They seem to be making little tin gods out of the drafted men, don’t they. I guess it’s that way in every city. The volunteers aren’t even mentioned.
We were paid Monday afternoon. Just in time since I wanted to go to New York.
As you know Karolyn has always wanted to be a nurse. Since she can’t get a school her father’s objections don’t hold water. She tried to get in the Albany Hospital a couple of months ago but there were no openings. She could get in at Bridgeport and its more or less like home to her there. All her father’s and mother’s people live there.
Love to all
Herbert
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
Backpacks and Meeting the Parents
OMG, he does love her. What could have happened to her? To them? Herb marries my grandmother in 1923 when he is back in Brooklyn working at an advertising agency, Barrows & Richardson, as an executive assistant. Their first child comes more than 9 months after the wedding, so I am not going to think less of him.
Charles is a bit older than Herb – by about 8 years.
So, backpacks? The evolution of military equipment described right here for us to learn.
Thursday (August 23), 1917
Dear Mother,
Your letter came today. I was awfully sorry to hear that you have been having trouble with your liver. I do hope that the doctoring will put you in good shape again in short order.
Did I tell you that I have been vaccinated? The doctor looked at it again today and pronounced it ok. Now that it has taken I’m through with vaccines for a while, I hope. At least I am supposed to be immune from typhoid, paratyphoid and small pox for some time to come – probably from on five years.
When we were out on the hike we used old style knapsacks and other equipment but today they gave us the new model packs. The old ones hang by your side in a long strap over your shoulder but these new ones have straps over both shoulders and they ride up high right between your shoulders. They sort of cut your shoulders at first but the weight of them sits better. I also now have three sets of good heavy all wool underwear regular back woods stuff. It will be fine and warm.
I knew of course that Karolyn had been up to see you. I don’t need to say that I’m awfully glad you can love her too. I don’t know what I should do if you didn’t. I’m sure you’ll never have reason to change your mind. She’s just as fine and sweet as she seems. I ought to know after all this time.
We may possibly be let off at noon Saturday or perhaps eleven o’clock – right after inspection. In that case I’ll drop in and see Chas and Grace before I go to Bridgeport. And don’t worry about my keeping K out late. I’m just as jealous of her reputation as anyone else – with good reason.
Lots of love,
Herb
I’ll probably be too busy to write Sunday so I’ll wait till Monday.
He’s so gallant; what a gentleman.
I do have to say, though, I am so surprised about how much traveling they have been doing. It's not like Troy, NY where my great grandmother is living, is close by. Traveling from Jersey City, to NYC, to Bridgeport, to Troy; I'd be exhausted and I have a car at my disposal.
My grandmother lived to a ripe old age, so I am not going to worry about her liver trouble.
Charles is a bit older than Herb – by about 8 years.
So, backpacks? The evolution of military equipment described right here for us to learn.
Thursday (August 23), 1917
Dear Mother,
Your letter came today. I was awfully sorry to hear that you have been having trouble with your liver. I do hope that the doctoring will put you in good shape again in short order.
Did I tell you that I have been vaccinated? The doctor looked at it again today and pronounced it ok. Now that it has taken I’m through with vaccines for a while, I hope. At least I am supposed to be immune from typhoid, paratyphoid and small pox for some time to come – probably from on five years.
When we were out on the hike we used old style knapsacks and other equipment but today they gave us the new model packs. The old ones hang by your side in a long strap over your shoulder but these new ones have straps over both shoulders and they ride up high right between your shoulders. They sort of cut your shoulders at first but the weight of them sits better. I also now have three sets of good heavy all wool underwear regular back woods stuff. It will be fine and warm.
I knew of course that Karolyn had been up to see you. I don’t need to say that I’m awfully glad you can love her too. I don’t know what I should do if you didn’t. I’m sure you’ll never have reason to change your mind. She’s just as fine and sweet as she seems. I ought to know after all this time.
We may possibly be let off at noon Saturday or perhaps eleven o’clock – right after inspection. In that case I’ll drop in and see Chas and Grace before I go to Bridgeport. And don’t worry about my keeping K out late. I’m just as jealous of her reputation as anyone else – with good reason.
Lots of love,
Herb
I’ll probably be too busy to write Sunday so I’ll wait till Monday.
He’s so gallant; what a gentleman.
I do have to say, though, I am so surprised about how much traveling they have been doing. It's not like Troy, NY where my great grandmother is living, is close by. Traveling from Jersey City, to NYC, to Bridgeport, to Troy; I'd be exhausted and I have a car at my disposal.
My grandmother lived to a ripe old age, so I am not going to worry about her liver trouble.
Tuesday, June 24, 2014
7th week in camp
Seems such a surprise that Herb and Charles would want to talk about what Herb will be doing after the War - the War hasn't even begun for Herb.... I guess they are very optimistic that the War will not last long once the Americans enter it.
Karolyn is heading over to Bridgeport to be a nurse....
So, was Olive at summer camp??? We saw her school picture before, in the blog entry dedicated to her.
Still no idea who Kelly Zillessen is....
Sunday, August 12, 1917
Dear Mother,
Sunday again – another week gone. Last Thursday finished my seventh week in camp.
I had a letter from Kelly Zillessen (?) yesterday. He was called out a week ago yesterday by telegram and sent to an aviation organization camp at San Antonio, Texas. He expects to be there only a few weeks and then to be sent to the aviation school either in Illinois or at Mineola.
This afternoon at 4 o’clock section 80 mounts guard for twenty-four hours. At four o’clock Monday afternoon we are relieved and are then off duty til 5:30 Wednesday morning. I plan to leave Monday at 6:07 pm and go over and visit Chas. I shall return late Tuesday night. He is very anxious to have me come and this looks like a good opportunity. There are a lot of things about what I am to do after the war that we want to talk over together. I shall tell him then about what Harry is going to do. I know he will be pleased and will be anxious to help out a bit if it proves necessary.
I can’t understand why it is that you have no word from the firm. I have made no later arrangement with them – could not have, in fact, since no one but Mr. Friedman was in the office when last I was there. At any rate, I would not have changed the arrangement without first consulting you since I had already given the money to Harry. However I will drop in to see them all Tuesday and will probably hear about it then.
Karolyn is going in to a hospital in Bridgeport, just as soon as arrangements are completed and she can get together her uniforms and aprons or whatever it is a nurse in training needs. Since she is to be in Bridgeport I hope to be able to go over to see her some Sunday soon.
I hear not more about when are to go abroad.
The food lately has been a great improvement. They are giving a lot of fresh vegetables and fruit – oranges, bananas, sweet corn, tomatoes, green peas, etc. It’s a great relief after canned stuff.
I had intended to write Olive but you said she was coming home so I did not. I hear from Karolyn that friend Mac Dowell has been telling around town that he expects to go to France with the U.S.A.A.C.
Love to all,
Herb
Rather than posting both fun things I found the other day while rifling through the strong box, I am posting the photograph I found of proud Harry with one of his masterpieces. Both front and back:
Karolyn is heading over to Bridgeport to be a nurse....
So, was Olive at summer camp??? We saw her school picture before, in the blog entry dedicated to her.
Still no idea who Kelly Zillessen is....
Sunday, August 12, 1917
Dear Mother,
Sunday again – another week gone. Last Thursday finished my seventh week in camp.
I had a letter from Kelly Zillessen (?) yesterday. He was called out a week ago yesterday by telegram and sent to an aviation organization camp at San Antonio, Texas. He expects to be there only a few weeks and then to be sent to the aviation school either in Illinois or at Mineola.
This afternoon at 4 o’clock section 80 mounts guard for twenty-four hours. At four o’clock Monday afternoon we are relieved and are then off duty til 5:30 Wednesday morning. I plan to leave Monday at 6:07 pm and go over and visit Chas. I shall return late Tuesday night. He is very anxious to have me come and this looks like a good opportunity. There are a lot of things about what I am to do after the war that we want to talk over together. I shall tell him then about what Harry is going to do. I know he will be pleased and will be anxious to help out a bit if it proves necessary.
I can’t understand why it is that you have no word from the firm. I have made no later arrangement with them – could not have, in fact, since no one but Mr. Friedman was in the office when last I was there. At any rate, I would not have changed the arrangement without first consulting you since I had already given the money to Harry. However I will drop in to see them all Tuesday and will probably hear about it then.
Karolyn is going in to a hospital in Bridgeport, just as soon as arrangements are completed and she can get together her uniforms and aprons or whatever it is a nurse in training needs. Since she is to be in Bridgeport I hope to be able to go over to see her some Sunday soon.
I hear not more about when are to go abroad.
The food lately has been a great improvement. They are giving a lot of fresh vegetables and fruit – oranges, bananas, sweet corn, tomatoes, green peas, etc. It’s a great relief after canned stuff.
I had intended to write Olive but you said she was coming home so I did not. I hear from Karolyn that friend Mac Dowell has been telling around town that he expects to go to France with the U.S.A.A.C.
Love to all,
Herb
Rather than posting both fun things I found the other day while rifling through the strong box, I am posting the photograph I found of proud Harry with one of his masterpieces. Both front and back:
Monday, June 23, 2014
Nice as pie.... (and some cookies, too)
First group finally left Allentown for France in August. Camp started in June. We know that Herb hangs in PA for many more months....
Wednesday, August 8, 1917
Dear Mother,
We’re back in Allentown again – came in yesterday afternoon. We left Bath Monday morning and marched about 12 miles to a little village called Weaverville where we stayed overnight. That afternoon we were shot with one second dose of paratyphoid and in the evening it rained. The dampness got in to me and I was pretty stiff next morning what with the injection and all. We set out from Weaverville and pushed on to Catasauqua where the Red Cross Association gave us a fine lunch. We then came right on to Allentown and got in and settled down in our old barracks by five o’clock. I was pretty well worn out so I went to bed about eight o’clock and woke up this morning feeling fine.
The cookies arrived in good shape Monday afternoon and they certainly tasted good.
I am glad Harry has made up his mind to go to school in the fall. I think it will be a darned good thing. And so long as he has enough to pay most of his expenses in hand it will be a simple matter to get money for board, carfare lunches and the like. I know Charlie will be glad to help him out a bit. I’ll ask him about it if you like. If Harry needs any clothes he might better use mine than buy new ones.
I wouldn’t worry about the money from the firm. It will come along all right.
My Syracuse Lieutenant is fine and he treats me nice as pie.
The first thousand men left Allentown for France late Monday night. The second lot has been announced but Section 80 is not among them. I rather think we’ll be in the third group to leave around Labor Day.
Love to all,
Herbert
I had to laugh out loud yesterday. I screwed up the courage to finally go through a strong box brimming with old photos. I would suggest that they were Margaret's photographs, though I'll never know. There was no order, and many were not labelled, but look what I found:
These three photographs have only the name Olive on the back. The penciled in label explains nothing else.... But, maybe it is camp for Olive. In 1917 Olive would be about 13 years old. I would suggest she might be a little older than 13 here, but close.... As I look more closely at the photos now I see that the girls are not dressed for a theatrical production as I originally thought, they are just dressed of the time. Hahahaha. Oops. But they are up to summertime shenanigans, I would suggest.
I believe Olive is the young lady with the tie-like ribbon.
Wednesday, August 8, 1917
Dear Mother,
We’re back in Allentown again – came in yesterday afternoon. We left Bath Monday morning and marched about 12 miles to a little village called Weaverville where we stayed overnight. That afternoon we were shot with one second dose of paratyphoid and in the evening it rained. The dampness got in to me and I was pretty stiff next morning what with the injection and all. We set out from Weaverville and pushed on to Catasauqua where the Red Cross Association gave us a fine lunch. We then came right on to Allentown and got in and settled down in our old barracks by five o’clock. I was pretty well worn out so I went to bed about eight o’clock and woke up this morning feeling fine.
The cookies arrived in good shape Monday afternoon and they certainly tasted good.
I am glad Harry has made up his mind to go to school in the fall. I think it will be a darned good thing. And so long as he has enough to pay most of his expenses in hand it will be a simple matter to get money for board, carfare lunches and the like. I know Charlie will be glad to help him out a bit. I’ll ask him about it if you like. If Harry needs any clothes he might better use mine than buy new ones.
I wouldn’t worry about the money from the firm. It will come along all right.
My Syracuse Lieutenant is fine and he treats me nice as pie.
The first thousand men left Allentown for France late Monday night. The second lot has been announced but Section 80 is not among them. I rather think we’ll be in the third group to leave around Labor Day.
Love to all,
Herbert
I had to laugh out loud yesterday. I screwed up the courage to finally go through a strong box brimming with old photos. I would suggest that they were Margaret's photographs, though I'll never know. There was no order, and many were not labelled, but look what I found:
These three photographs have only the name Olive on the back. The penciled in label explains nothing else.... But, maybe it is camp for Olive. In 1917 Olive would be about 13 years old. I would suggest she might be a little older than 13 here, but close.... As I look more closely at the photos now I see that the girls are not dressed for a theatrical production as I originally thought, they are just dressed of the time. Hahahaha. Oops. But they are up to summertime shenanigans, I would suggest.
I believe Olive is the young lady with the tie-like ribbon.
Sunday, June 22, 2014
Hiking....
Sunday, August 5, 1917
Dear Mother,
I’ve been having a fine time the last few days. Thursday was the last of the terrific hot spell and since then the weather has been ideal – quite like autumn. Clear, warm days and cool, crisp nights. Friday we broke camp and set out at three o’clock. We hiked fourteen miles that afternoon arriving at Slatington at 7:45. We rest ten minutes out of every hour always and of course we had supper on the way – sandwiches and coffee. We stayed in Slatington overnight and camped out overnight in the town ball grounds. We didn’t put up tents but rolled up in blankets underneath the stars and a full moon. We were up next morning at 4:45 after a good night’s sleep and we were on the march at 6:30. We pushed on for five hours arriving at Bath over very winding but pretty good roads at about 11:30. We covered about 16 miles. Our tents, blankets and spare clothes were carried on trucks so all we had to carry was haversacks and canteens, about 8 pounds in all. We are here in Bath over today but expect to start out tomorrow. No one knows where we are going or how long we’ll be out of camp except the Major in command and he isn’t telling.
Many of the men have sore feet but mine are in fine shape and I feel great. I’d much rather be out on the road than in Allentown. There are about 700 of us and we stretch out in ranks of four over nearly a quarter mile of road.
The Y.M.C.A. follows us around and brings us our mail every day.
Love to all,
Herbert
On this day of a boring letter from Allentown, Pa, I thought I would share a letter and drawings Herb wrote to his Aunt Ada, cousin Helen and Uncle Bill. Ada is his mother's sister. The baby in this case is Herb's youngest sister, Margaret.
Dear Mother,
I’ve been having a fine time the last few days. Thursday was the last of the terrific hot spell and since then the weather has been ideal – quite like autumn. Clear, warm days and cool, crisp nights. Friday we broke camp and set out at three o’clock. We hiked fourteen miles that afternoon arriving at Slatington at 7:45. We rest ten minutes out of every hour always and of course we had supper on the way – sandwiches and coffee. We stayed in Slatington overnight and camped out overnight in the town ball grounds. We didn’t put up tents but rolled up in blankets underneath the stars and a full moon. We were up next morning at 4:45 after a good night’s sleep and we were on the march at 6:30. We pushed on for five hours arriving at Bath over very winding but pretty good roads at about 11:30. We covered about 16 miles. Our tents, blankets and spare clothes were carried on trucks so all we had to carry was haversacks and canteens, about 8 pounds in all. We are here in Bath over today but expect to start out tomorrow. No one knows where we are going or how long we’ll be out of camp except the Major in command and he isn’t telling.
Many of the men have sore feet but mine are in fine shape and I feel great. I’d much rather be out on the road than in Allentown. There are about 700 of us and we stretch out in ranks of four over nearly a quarter mile of road.
The Y.M.C.A. follows us around and brings us our mail every day.
Love to all,
Herbert
On this day of a boring letter from Allentown, Pa, I thought I would share a letter and drawings Herb wrote to his Aunt Ada, cousin Helen and Uncle Bill. Ada is his mother's sister. The baby in this case is Herb's youngest sister, Margaret.
Saturday, June 21, 2014
Artists in the family
I wonder where sister Olive is, camp, maybe? No way to know.
Herb seems so generous with his younger brother, Harry. I do know that Harry became an artist of sorts. I have one large, slightly faded, watercolor of his that I got when Olive died. Though Harry does seems to be at loose ends, having a tough time making some decisions about his life.
Herb tried his hand at drawing, too, actually. It looks as though he copied images out of magazines. This is one that I framed and have hanging in my office:
Looks like Herb was interested in fiber arts, too - or pretty women, I suppose.... ;)
Wednesday, August 1, 1917
Dear Mother,
I got your letter safely yesterday but have been too busy + tired to write. We left Allentown Monday and are now in a semi-permanent camp about ten miles from Allentown. We are living in tents and I’m not awfully keen about it. Yesterday was I think the hottest day I ever remember. The thermometer touched 103 in the shade. We hiked all morning and I layed [sic] around in my underwear in the shade the rest of the day and still couldn’t get cool. We are supposed to go on hikes every day and return at night. That’s easier than breaking camp every day. The food is cooked on field kitchens but is very good – really better than we got in Allentown. This morning I have been on a detail to get water for the kitchen. We had to bring it a half a mile on trucks. it also rained hard for an hour and a half so everything except the clothes I had on is wet. But they’ll soon dry up.
I had a letter from Olive today. She says she is having a fine time.
I’m really glad that Harry didn’t go in the Navy, and that he’s going to Photography school in the fall. Of course my money from the firm is his. Have him write me more of his plans. I should think he might be best board over in Sterling Place. It’s reasonable and they’ll take good care of him. If he thinks he will I’ll write him a letter of introduction.
There are about a thousand of us here in this camp. How long will be here I don’t know, Reveille is at 4:45 AM and taps at 9:00 PM. I ought to be healthy – I never sweat so much before in my life. Mail is brought here three times a day from Allentown…
[letter torn and remainder missing.]
Herb seems so generous with his younger brother, Harry. I do know that Harry became an artist of sorts. I have one large, slightly faded, watercolor of his that I got when Olive died. Though Harry does seems to be at loose ends, having a tough time making some decisions about his life.
Herb tried his hand at drawing, too, actually. It looks as though he copied images out of magazines. This is one that I framed and have hanging in my office:
Looks like Herb was interested in fiber arts, too - or pretty women, I suppose.... ;)
Wednesday, August 1, 1917
Dear Mother,
I got your letter safely yesterday but have been too busy + tired to write. We left Allentown Monday and are now in a semi-permanent camp about ten miles from Allentown. We are living in tents and I’m not awfully keen about it. Yesterday was I think the hottest day I ever remember. The thermometer touched 103 in the shade. We hiked all morning and I layed [sic] around in my underwear in the shade the rest of the day and still couldn’t get cool. We are supposed to go on hikes every day and return at night. That’s easier than breaking camp every day. The food is cooked on field kitchens but is very good – really better than we got in Allentown. This morning I have been on a detail to get water for the kitchen. We had to bring it a half a mile on trucks. it also rained hard for an hour and a half so everything except the clothes I had on is wet. But they’ll soon dry up.
I had a letter from Olive today. She says she is having a fine time.
I’m really glad that Harry didn’t go in the Navy, and that he’s going to Photography school in the fall. Of course my money from the firm is his. Have him write me more of his plans. I should think he might be best board over in Sterling Place. It’s reasonable and they’ll take good care of him. If he thinks he will I’ll write him a letter of introduction.
There are about a thousand of us here in this camp. How long will be here I don’t know, Reveille is at 4:45 AM and taps at 9:00 PM. I ought to be healthy – I never sweat so much before in my life. Mail is brought here three times a day from Allentown…
[letter torn and remainder missing.]
Friday, June 20, 2014
Good Questions
I guess I was wrong, because a letter I already transcribed and blogged fits in here - his wonderful date with Karolyn. So, something happened that she was around and he could visit with her.
I have not yet read my transcriptions in order. I still need to sort them, and that seems such a large task that I guess I am putting it off until I have transcribed them all. My story might hang together better, though, if I did reread and sort out.
I wish I knew this man. He sounds like such a good man. I am really wishing that I had the letter Nellie Jane wrote him – especially if she answers his questions. I would love to know how Nellie Jane and Oliver met – and how much Oliver earned when they got married.
I continue to wonder about Karolyn and what might have happened to her. Herbert clearly thought to marry her. I hope we find out, but nothing I have yet read has given me any clue. Why can't he give us her last name...?
I have no idea who Tom or Frank Blackhall are; I have never come across their names before.
I wonder what the salts were…
Wednesday, July 25, 1917
Dear Mother,
I’m afraid that in my hurry I forgot to tell you before that I received the five dollars all right. I imagine you must have known it anyway because I signed a return receipt.
Last night we slept out under the trees in our shelter tents inside the camps grounds. I didn’t mind the fact that the ground was hard but I didn’t like the mosquitos at all. They kept us awake until about twelve o’clock. The idea of it is to get us accustomed to sleeping out a bit before taking us out on our hike. Just when we will go one can’t tell because we are still waiting on such equipment as canteens, haversacks and mess kits.
It has been frightfully hot here the last two or three days. I have sweat like a horse. It seems as if I must have lost several pounds but I feel fine. Fortunately it’s a dry heat, so it isn’t as bad as it might be.
There is very little to tell any more. Things have settled down to a regular routine and one day is pretty much like the rest. Today I’ve got to wash. I don’t like the idea of it, there being none but cold water, but I sweat so much that my clothes demand it frequently.
___________
In the mean time I have just had my third typhoid inoculation, my first paratyphoid (both together) and a large dose of salts. The inoculations weren’t bad except that one gets nervous waiting around for them but the salts were nasty.
When you write be sure to tell me what Harry has done about enlisting or have him write me. I am more concerned about that now than about anything else.
When I was in New York I saw Frank Blackhall (Tom’s cousin). He is in the Cavalry (National Guard, some Brooklyn Troop) and has been called out to be mustered into the Federal Service.
5:00 pm
Your letter just came. Please Mother, don’t worry about me, at least until there’s something to worry about. Above all don’t worry about Karolyn. Until the war is over I have no prospects of course. After that, well if you don’t think I have, ask Charlie. I’ve talked it over with him and he thinks it all right. I have no intention of marrying until I have at least fifteen hundred a year. That will be two years at the earliest. And Mother, how old were you when you married and how much did Dad earn? As I see it, it will help me in business. It gives me that stability and responsibility, so necessary in my life. Of course Tom wouldn’t do it. It was never his idea to work for himself – much less for two. If it worries you so much I almost wish I had not told you. I told you in an endeavor to quiet your fears by showing you that assurance that I’d take no rash chances and would be absolutely straight morally. I thought it might relieve your mind about me. I wish I could talk to you about it.
Love,
Herbert
I have not yet read my transcriptions in order. I still need to sort them, and that seems such a large task that I guess I am putting it off until I have transcribed them all. My story might hang together better, though, if I did reread and sort out.
I wish I knew this man. He sounds like such a good man. I am really wishing that I had the letter Nellie Jane wrote him – especially if she answers his questions. I would love to know how Nellie Jane and Oliver met – and how much Oliver earned when they got married.
I continue to wonder about Karolyn and what might have happened to her. Herbert clearly thought to marry her. I hope we find out, but nothing I have yet read has given me any clue. Why can't he give us her last name...?
I have no idea who Tom or Frank Blackhall are; I have never come across their names before.
I wonder what the salts were…
Wednesday, July 25, 1917
Dear Mother,
I’m afraid that in my hurry I forgot to tell you before that I received the five dollars all right. I imagine you must have known it anyway because I signed a return receipt.
Last night we slept out under the trees in our shelter tents inside the camps grounds. I didn’t mind the fact that the ground was hard but I didn’t like the mosquitos at all. They kept us awake until about twelve o’clock. The idea of it is to get us accustomed to sleeping out a bit before taking us out on our hike. Just when we will go one can’t tell because we are still waiting on such equipment as canteens, haversacks and mess kits.
It has been frightfully hot here the last two or three days. I have sweat like a horse. It seems as if I must have lost several pounds but I feel fine. Fortunately it’s a dry heat, so it isn’t as bad as it might be.
There is very little to tell any more. Things have settled down to a regular routine and one day is pretty much like the rest. Today I’ve got to wash. I don’t like the idea of it, there being none but cold water, but I sweat so much that my clothes demand it frequently.
___________
In the mean time I have just had my third typhoid inoculation, my first paratyphoid (both together) and a large dose of salts. The inoculations weren’t bad except that one gets nervous waiting around for them but the salts were nasty.
When you write be sure to tell me what Harry has done about enlisting or have him write me. I am more concerned about that now than about anything else.
When I was in New York I saw Frank Blackhall (Tom’s cousin). He is in the Cavalry (National Guard, some Brooklyn Troop) and has been called out to be mustered into the Federal Service.
5:00 pm
Your letter just came. Please Mother, don’t worry about me, at least until there’s something to worry about. Above all don’t worry about Karolyn. Until the war is over I have no prospects of course. After that, well if you don’t think I have, ask Charlie. I’ve talked it over with him and he thinks it all right. I have no intention of marrying until I have at least fifteen hundred a year. That will be two years at the earliest. And Mother, how old were you when you married and how much did Dad earn? As I see it, it will help me in business. It gives me that stability and responsibility, so necessary in my life. Of course Tom wouldn’t do it. It was never his idea to work for himself – much less for two. If it worries you so much I almost wish I had not told you. I told you in an endeavor to quiet your fears by showing you that assurance that I’d take no rash chances and would be absolutely straight morally. I thought it might relieve your mind about me. I wish I could talk to you about it.
Love,
Herbert
Thursday, June 19, 2014
Time Machine
I have both just listened to and watched H.G. Wells' The Time Machine. The book was written in 1895 - read by Derek Jacobi - and the movie version I watched was made in 1960. Whereas I was struck by the concept of the haves and the have-nots in the book, the movie was more about human kind and their predilection for war.
In the book, I was struck how in 1895, Wells drew the conclusion that the haves, having all their needs taken care of for them, without them having to think anything through, ultimately turned into the equivalent of cattle. The have-nots were pushed underground, but having been required to maintain the machinery which kept the human animal above ground fed, housed, and clothed, they still could think and reason. Though, perhaps because of the divergence, the underground humans, the Morlocks, no longer saw the Eloi, the above ground humans, as human, and there no longer existed the repugnance of anthropophagy, as they were no longer the same. It is worth noting that Darwin lived from 1809 to 1882 and also, from my 21st century lens, surrounded by discussions about the 99% and the 1%, it is interesting to think about, this weird celebration of those folks who continue to use their hands to create, build and maintain. (I suspect I may be the only person to think the cannibalistic Morlocks are a celebration of the common man....)
It was the movie, however, which prompted me to post here today. Though the book was written - and set, I believe - in 1895, the 1960 movie begins on New Years Eve 1899 while the English are fighting the Boers in South Africa. George, our time traveler, is clearly disgusted by his country's continuous state of war - and that is only looking backwards in time, not knowing what we know today. He first emerges during WW1 - in September 1917 - and later to WW2 and even in to a period of Nuclear War. He pushes on through time to get to the period of the Eloi and Morlocks. We, of course, have lived through more wars that Wells' did not know - WW1 & 2, Korea, and even the producers of the movie did not know, Vietnam and now the longest for the US - Afghanistan.
Back to Herb, though. We haven't yet gotten to September 1917 in our letters, we know that Herb is still in Allentown, PA, in August, talking about the weather and thinking about Karolyn while the time traveler is talking with Filby's son - George Filby, the father and fiend to the time traveler, having died during the 'Great War'- which Herb is now apart of. Silly thoughts, I know, but still fun to think of.
And also, as this blog celebrates Fiber Art - I loved how the director used women's fashions to illustrate the passage of time; that was brilliant.
In the book, I was struck how in 1895, Wells drew the conclusion that the haves, having all their needs taken care of for them, without them having to think anything through, ultimately turned into the equivalent of cattle. The have-nots were pushed underground, but having been required to maintain the machinery which kept the human animal above ground fed, housed, and clothed, they still could think and reason. Though, perhaps because of the divergence, the underground humans, the Morlocks, no longer saw the Eloi, the above ground humans, as human, and there no longer existed the repugnance of anthropophagy, as they were no longer the same. It is worth noting that Darwin lived from 1809 to 1882 and also, from my 21st century lens, surrounded by discussions about the 99% and the 1%, it is interesting to think about, this weird celebration of those folks who continue to use their hands to create, build and maintain. (I suspect I may be the only person to think the cannibalistic Morlocks are a celebration of the common man....)
It was the movie, however, which prompted me to post here today. Though the book was written - and set, I believe - in 1895, the 1960 movie begins on New Years Eve 1899 while the English are fighting the Boers in South Africa. George, our time traveler, is clearly disgusted by his country's continuous state of war - and that is only looking backwards in time, not knowing what we know today. He first emerges during WW1 - in September 1917 - and later to WW2 and even in to a period of Nuclear War. He pushes on through time to get to the period of the Eloi and Morlocks. We, of course, have lived through more wars that Wells' did not know - WW1 & 2, Korea, and even the producers of the movie did not know, Vietnam and now the longest for the US - Afghanistan.
Back to Herb, though. We haven't yet gotten to September 1917 in our letters, we know that Herb is still in Allentown, PA, in August, talking about the weather and thinking about Karolyn while the time traveler is talking with Filby's son - George Filby, the father and fiend to the time traveler, having died during the 'Great War'- which Herb is now apart of. Silly thoughts, I know, but still fun to think of.
And also, as this blog celebrates Fiber Art - I loved how the director used women's fashions to illustrate the passage of time; that was brilliant.
Wednesday, June 18, 2014
Anticipating a quick visit with Mom
As I was driving home from Maine last week I saw signs for Bridgeport.... it made me smile and almost prolong my trip home. I have never been there. On that note, driving to Boston from NYC, though, I did drive near New Rochelle. I wish I had stopped there for a visit. I need to make a plan for that - for now I have found family on both sides - maternal and paternal - who lived in New Rochelle.
I guess I should figure no Sunday letter in mid to late July, as he will be home. That should help my chronology puzzle.
Wednesday, July 18, 1917
Dear Mother,
I have just heard from Grace and she wants Karolyn and I to come see them Sunday but hasn’t any place to put us over Saturday night as the spare room isn’t furnished. That’s all right but something went wrong at the other end and Karolyn isn’t going to Bridgeport yet awhile. As far as I can gather it’s something to do with a school out west which she is trying to secure for the fall.
I put in an application for two days leave before I knew all this and I had to fight with the commandant to get it. He warned me that it would be the last I could ever hope to get before leaving so I’m coming home. I’ll leave here Friday evening early and will probably be in Troy early Saturday morning – about two o’clock or so. I hadn’t thought of coming up yet because I thought that later I’d be able to get four or five days. According to the latest advices from headquarters here we won’t be here but a very short time now. We get practice hikes every other day – five or six miles. Our battalion – six sections – is already organized and will be ready to leave I think within a month. Whether will go to France or Russia I don’t know. It may be either. I do wish I had more time but I can stay until about noon Sunday and I want to see you all before I leave for good.
We have a new lieutenant for Section 80. Who should it be by “Lub” Allen a Phi Delt from Syracuse who graduated from Liberal Arts before my time but whom I knew quite well. They are filling up the sections to 45 men. The new men are all nice chaps in our sections and several of the rough necks have transferred so I’m going to stick with section 80.
I have a strained leg – it’s the tendon just above my heel but I expect it will be all right in a few days. Outside of that I’m as healthy as a mule. You’ll see for yourself.
If you haven’t sent me that money by the time you get this keep till I arrive. I have enough to get home on.
So I’m afraid you’ll have me waking you up early Saturday AM.
Until then, good bye,
Herbert
P.S. If I don’t arrive as I plan you’ll know that I’ve been called out in the meantime on one of these six day hikes. That will cancel my leave.
Herb
I guess I should figure no Sunday letter in mid to late July, as he will be home. That should help my chronology puzzle.
Wednesday, July 18, 1917
Dear Mother,
I have just heard from Grace and she wants Karolyn and I to come see them Sunday but hasn’t any place to put us over Saturday night as the spare room isn’t furnished. That’s all right but something went wrong at the other end and Karolyn isn’t going to Bridgeport yet awhile. As far as I can gather it’s something to do with a school out west which she is trying to secure for the fall.
I put in an application for two days leave before I knew all this and I had to fight with the commandant to get it. He warned me that it would be the last I could ever hope to get before leaving so I’m coming home. I’ll leave here Friday evening early and will probably be in Troy early Saturday morning – about two o’clock or so. I hadn’t thought of coming up yet because I thought that later I’d be able to get four or five days. According to the latest advices from headquarters here we won’t be here but a very short time now. We get practice hikes every other day – five or six miles. Our battalion – six sections – is already organized and will be ready to leave I think within a month. Whether will go to France or Russia I don’t know. It may be either. I do wish I had more time but I can stay until about noon Sunday and I want to see you all before I leave for good.
We have a new lieutenant for Section 80. Who should it be by “Lub” Allen a Phi Delt from Syracuse who graduated from Liberal Arts before my time but whom I knew quite well. They are filling up the sections to 45 men. The new men are all nice chaps in our sections and several of the rough necks have transferred so I’m going to stick with section 80.
I have a strained leg – it’s the tendon just above my heel but I expect it will be all right in a few days. Outside of that I’m as healthy as a mule. You’ll see for yourself.
If you haven’t sent me that money by the time you get this keep till I arrive. I have enough to get home on.
So I’m afraid you’ll have me waking you up early Saturday AM.
Until then, good bye,
Herbert
P.S. If I don’t arrive as I plan you’ll know that I’ve been called out in the meantime on one of these six day hikes. That will cancel my leave.
Herb
Tuesday, June 17, 2014
Montana Bison Wool
A little break from Herb as I transcribe and sort more of his letters. This is a blog called Spinning a Yarn under a Family Tree, so I do need to remember to put in a little bit about the yarn....
Last year I visited Montana and was fortunate enough to find a yarn shop in downtown Bozeman - very near the café where I imbibed a cappuccino with goat milk; I don't think I will do that again. Though an enthusiastic coffee drinker, I don't seem to have a palate for a blend of goat's milk and espresso.
Back to the yarn....
I once read that bison fiber is collected from the ground - obviously one can not shear from a wild animal - but this booklet which accompanies the yarn indicates that they have been harvesting the downy fiber from the hides of meat animals. I can't quite imagine the meeting of weavers and knitters with the abattoir.... But, the booklet indicates that 'once the fiber is sheared the hide is sold to be tanned and made into leather goods.' I guess the hides would go to waste and it's easier to shear a motionless hide than to collect fiber in the middle of the plain....
I purchased two 3.5 oz skeins of the wool - and, yes, $68 per skein. In this case I am using the Bison Cloud which is a 50/50 blend of bison and alpaca. This yarn is so wonderfully soft. The spinners suggest using it for items around the face because of it's delicious texture. I would agree.
I am knitting a very simple scarf pattern I picked up in Vermont from Battenkill Fibers. And so far only 2 mistakes which I have tried to correct, but that is not yet a skill I have mastered. I said this was a blog about fiber art, I didn't say I was any good at it!
My husband has asked that I never make anything for him. His reasoning is that he never wants to feel obligated to wear it. Sounds cruel, but I understand. I wonder if my brothers feel the same, as they may be getting scarves for Christmas this year (if I finish by then).
Last year I visited Montana and was fortunate enough to find a yarn shop in downtown Bozeman - very near the café where I imbibed a cappuccino with goat milk; I don't think I will do that again. Though an enthusiastic coffee drinker, I don't seem to have a palate for a blend of goat's milk and espresso.
Back to the yarn....
I once read that bison fiber is collected from the ground - obviously one can not shear from a wild animal - but this booklet which accompanies the yarn indicates that they have been harvesting the downy fiber from the hides of meat animals. I can't quite imagine the meeting of weavers and knitters with the abattoir.... But, the booklet indicates that 'once the fiber is sheared the hide is sold to be tanned and made into leather goods.' I guess the hides would go to waste and it's easier to shear a motionless hide than to collect fiber in the middle of the plain....
I purchased two 3.5 oz skeins of the wool - and, yes, $68 per skein. In this case I am using the Bison Cloud which is a 50/50 blend of bison and alpaca. This yarn is so wonderfully soft. The spinners suggest using it for items around the face because of it's delicious texture. I would agree.
I am knitting a very simple scarf pattern I picked up in Vermont from Battenkill Fibers. And so far only 2 mistakes which I have tried to correct, but that is not yet a skill I have mastered. I said this was a blog about fiber art, I didn't say I was any good at it!
My husband has asked that I never make anything for him. His reasoning is that he never wants to feel obligated to wear it. Sounds cruel, but I understand. I wonder if my brothers feel the same, as they may be getting scarves for Christmas this year (if I finish by then).
Monday, June 16, 2014
Bastille Day
I can guess the date of this letter, luckily. Like yesterday, I have reference points! Makes sorting so much easier.
I have to say, sometimes this does seem more like summer camp that prepping for the first World War; how naïve they all seem. Don't worry, I'm not lonesome! And how about some cake? I would like some cake, please. Bizarre, really, from a 21st century perspective.
I am posting this picture again to remember how young he was... Still waiting on his uniform and asking his mother for cake... What was he wearing all this time as he has enlisted to serve his country?
On the US Army Medical Department web site they mention how "the volunteers paid for their own transportation, clothing, uniforms, and personal equipment. As one put it, "the Americans not only had to be willing to risk their lives, they also had to pay to do it."
I guess Kimber isn't as yellow as Herb originally accused. (I suppose I could see if a death certificate is available for Kimber now that I know his full name and place of birth/residence on Ancestry.com.)
Sunday, (July 15), 1917
Dear Mother,
Sunday again and I guess the rain has cleared up for good. I hope so.
Most of the rail roads that run into Allentown are running Sunday excursions here and the camp to-day is jammed full of visitors.
I had a letter from Case the other day so I knew about the check before I had heard from. I could use about five dollars of it if you can spare it but if you need it for the insurance keep it as I’ll worry along all night.
Yesterday the camp celebrated Bastille Day in honor of the French. There were patriotic exercises and a few field events.
Events in Germany seem to have taken a funny turn but it look as if peace were still a long way off. I sent my clothes Wednesday so you must have them by now. I had to send them collect because they don’t except [sic] express parcels in camp any other way.
Karolyn is I think going to Bridgeport this week to visit her relatives there. I have written Charlie + Grace + asked them to invite her over next Saturday to stay overnight in which case I’ll run over to see her if I can get the leave. It’s awfully hard to get a leave of absence but I think I can get thirty-six hours. It takes about two hours to go from here to Jersey City and the fare is two dollars. I think Chas + Grace will be glad to have us. At any rate they had often mentioned it to me before so it was all right to ask them.
Of course I have written to the folks at Sterling Place. Kimber, as I understand it, is also enlisted in aviation: but neither of them have yet been called.
I have called twice on Morton. He is in Section 47. But I haven’t found him in yet. However I’ll probably have better luck next time.
I know quite a few of the fellows here quite well so there’s no danger of my being lonesome. There are about fifty-five Phi Delts scattered around and I often bump into them.
I would like to have you send me some cookies or cake. We never have either at mess. I buy them once in a while in the store but they don’t taste right.
Love to all,
Herbert
Section 80
I have to say, sometimes this does seem more like summer camp that prepping for the first World War; how naïve they all seem. Don't worry, I'm not lonesome! And how about some cake? I would like some cake, please. Bizarre, really, from a 21st century perspective.
I am posting this picture again to remember how young he was... Still waiting on his uniform and asking his mother for cake... What was he wearing all this time as he has enlisted to serve his country?
On the US Army Medical Department web site they mention how "the volunteers paid for their own transportation, clothing, uniforms, and personal equipment. As one put it, "the Americans not only had to be willing to risk their lives, they also had to pay to do it."
I guess Kimber isn't as yellow as Herb originally accused. (I suppose I could see if a death certificate is available for Kimber now that I know his full name and place of birth/residence on Ancestry.com.)
Sunday, (July 15), 1917
Dear Mother,
Sunday again and I guess the rain has cleared up for good. I hope so.
Most of the rail roads that run into Allentown are running Sunday excursions here and the camp to-day is jammed full of visitors.
I had a letter from Case the other day so I knew about the check before I had heard from. I could use about five dollars of it if you can spare it but if you need it for the insurance keep it as I’ll worry along all night.
Yesterday the camp celebrated Bastille Day in honor of the French. There were patriotic exercises and a few field events.
Events in Germany seem to have taken a funny turn but it look as if peace were still a long way off. I sent my clothes Wednesday so you must have them by now. I had to send them collect because they don’t except [sic] express parcels in camp any other way.
Karolyn is I think going to Bridgeport this week to visit her relatives there. I have written Charlie + Grace + asked them to invite her over next Saturday to stay overnight in which case I’ll run over to see her if I can get the leave. It’s awfully hard to get a leave of absence but I think I can get thirty-six hours. It takes about two hours to go from here to Jersey City and the fare is two dollars. I think Chas + Grace will be glad to have us. At any rate they had often mentioned it to me before so it was all right to ask them.
Of course I have written to the folks at Sterling Place. Kimber, as I understand it, is also enlisted in aviation: but neither of them have yet been called.
I have called twice on Morton. He is in Section 47. But I haven’t found him in yet. However I’ll probably have better luck next time.
I know quite a few of the fellows here quite well so there’s no danger of my being lonesome. There are about fifty-five Phi Delts scattered around and I often bump into them.
I would like to have you send me some cookies or cake. We never have either at mess. I buy them once in a while in the store but they don’t taste right.
Love to all,
Herbert
Section 80
Sunday, June 15, 2014
Enjoying Myself
Herb's birthday is July 7th. He was a young 'un in all this, wasn't he? I can't imagine making the kinds of decisions he was making at twenty or even in my twenties. He is such a boy, and then so pleased to be 'grown up at last.'
Again, according to my favorite reference source, Wikipedia, Robert W. Service was a Canadian poet who:
Photo taken from Wikipedia
Can you imagine being a soldier and sitting around singing? Just doesn't compute in this day and age - especially as I write this an Iraq is falling apart again with ISIS marching against Al-Malikis corrupt government. Makes you want to cry for all those people just trying to live their lives.
I can find only a High School in Georgia when I research Booker Washington's College. I guess I am having trouble reconciling an African American High School quartet singing and reciting for the Ambulance Corps, so I am assuming I have misunderstood something here.
The ambulance corps had to assemble their vehicles when they got to France. Though I can't find it now, I have seen photographs of the vehicles in their crates. From the US Army Medical Department web page they indicate:
I found a web page about Section 80 and they had a photograph of the group - rough necks and all. I am not certain, but I am guessing that Herb is either the guy sitting aloof on the top left - his jaw looks like my father's jaw - or he is the second on the left sitting on the bench. In both cases, the man seems camera shy.
Sunday (must be July 1917)
Dear Family,
I had a letter from you yesterday but that was the first in some time. I don’t know what could have become of the other. The parcel post package hasn’t put in an appearance and I am curious as a kid at Christmas to know what it is in it. I know it will be something I’ll like and I thank you a thousand times for remembering me. To think that I am twenty-one. Grown up at last. Honestly, Mother, I can’t believe it. You’ll have to dye your hair gray, too, or no one will believe it.
I had a letter from Steve Lee at Plattsburgh the other day asking me if I was coming up to the second camp. I am writing to tell him what I really have done. I imagine it will surprise him.
I have written to Mr. Case and told him about how I am fixed and asked him to mail my check to you but have had no reply so far. I am writing to Charlie to-day.
It’s nice of you to offer to send me papers but I’m afraid I shouldn’t have much use for them. I buy the New York Times here two or three times a week to keep in touch with things in general.
To-day we are having the first gloomy weather since I have been here. It isn’t raining but it’s cloudy and dull.
Lately I am beginning to really enjoy myself here. I didn’t like it at first – it was too different from the sort of living to which I was accustomed. But lately I’ve sort of gotten into the spirit of it and find that I like it pretty well. Last night the Army Y.M.C.A. had a nice little free entertainment for the boys. A.M. Wooley, who has been at the front recited some of the “Rhymes of a Red Cross Man” by Robert Service, a Canadian poet. It was very fine. After that a quartette from Booker Washington’s College sang and recited. Most every night there are moving pictures on the grounds and the gang unites in songs. We are learning marching songs now to use on our hikes which will start soon. One of the favorites is “Pack up your troubles in your old kit bag and Smile! Smile! Smile!” which is a favorite at all the training camps throughout the country.
The Phi Delt dinner Thursday night was a great success. About forty of us were present from eighteen or twenty different chapters. We had a room to ourselves and could make all noise and sing all the Phi Delt songs we liked. Afterwards we went in a body to the only vaudeville theater in town. The dinner was fine, everything from soup on and the whole assessment was only a dollar and thirty cents. There are now more than fifty Phis in camp and we plan to have regular get-to-gether meetings every Monday night + to have our pictures taken when we all get uniforms. I haven’t mine yet, by the way, but there are only about fifteen sections not outfitted out of about a hundred + ten so we expect them to-morrow or Tuesday.
There has been another hitch in transfers on account of the pay roll so you had best address me care of section 80 until I tell you differently.
About 50 of the motor ambulances are now here and the rest are expected soon. Over a hundred two-ton Packard trucks have also arrived this week.
I went to church at the Y.M.C.A. tent to-day. Some preacher from Philadelphia spoke about the war. He was very good.
Love to all,
Herbert
Again, according to my favorite reference source, Wikipedia, Robert W. Service was a Canadian poet who:
"worked as a stretcher bearer and ambulance driver with the Ambulance Corps of the American Red Cross, until his health broke." Convalescing in Paris, he wrote a new book of mainly war poetry, Rhymes of a Red Cross Man, in 1916.
Can you imagine being a soldier and sitting around singing? Just doesn't compute in this day and age - especially as I write this an Iraq is falling apart again with ISIS marching against Al-Malikis corrupt government. Makes you want to cry for all those people just trying to live their lives.
I can find only a High School in Georgia when I research Booker Washington's College. I guess I am having trouble reconciling an African American High School quartet singing and reciting for the Ambulance Corps, so I am assuming I have misunderstood something here.
The ambulance corps had to assemble their vehicles when they got to France. Though I can't find it now, I have seen photographs of the vehicles in their crates. From the US Army Medical Department web page they indicate:
Ford, Fiat, Peugeot, and General Motors Company ambulances were severely tested under combat conditions that demonstrated their advantages in speed and patient comfort. The Ford Model "T" could climb narrow mountain roads where patient movement previously was possible only on mules or in horse-drawn carts. The Ford put new meaning in "fording." It sat high and could get through flooded roads not accessible by lower vehicles. Indeed, French soldiers accused the Americans of painting water lines on their vehicles as depth gauges, and some calls for evacuation would request the ambulance "boats." If a road was blocked, the "T" could go cross-country. It was light enough that three or four soldiers could pick it up and move it if it stuck in a ditch or shell hole.17
Nevertheless, the motorized ambulances were primitive vehicles. The Ford's idiosyncrasies made mountain driving dicey. Its gravity gasoline feed did not work on steep grades, compelling drivers to back their vehicles up the hills. Another problem was that prolonged driving in low gear caused excessive and uneven wear on the transmission bands. To equalize the wear, drivers in mountainous terrain used the low-speed band during climbs, the reverse band to assist in controlling descents, and the foot brake on corners and the steepest parts of hills. Transmission bands would last ten to fourteen days with this technique. Mountain driving was further complicated by brakes that could not handle the steep grades. Drivers kept an eye peeled for strategically placed trees that could stop them if necessary. Sometimes patients had unforgettable rides.
I found a web page about Section 80 and they had a photograph of the group - rough necks and all. I am not certain, but I am guessing that Herb is either the guy sitting aloof on the top left - his jaw looks like my father's jaw - or he is the second on the left sitting on the bench. In both cases, the man seems camera shy.
Sunday (must be July 1917)
Dear Family,
I had a letter from you yesterday but that was the first in some time. I don’t know what could have become of the other. The parcel post package hasn’t put in an appearance and I am curious as a kid at Christmas to know what it is in it. I know it will be something I’ll like and I thank you a thousand times for remembering me. To think that I am twenty-one. Grown up at last. Honestly, Mother, I can’t believe it. You’ll have to dye your hair gray, too, or no one will believe it.
I had a letter from Steve Lee at Plattsburgh the other day asking me if I was coming up to the second camp. I am writing to tell him what I really have done. I imagine it will surprise him.
I have written to Mr. Case and told him about how I am fixed and asked him to mail my check to you but have had no reply so far. I am writing to Charlie to-day.
It’s nice of you to offer to send me papers but I’m afraid I shouldn’t have much use for them. I buy the New York Times here two or three times a week to keep in touch with things in general.
To-day we are having the first gloomy weather since I have been here. It isn’t raining but it’s cloudy and dull.
Lately I am beginning to really enjoy myself here. I didn’t like it at first – it was too different from the sort of living to which I was accustomed. But lately I’ve sort of gotten into the spirit of it and find that I like it pretty well. Last night the Army Y.M.C.A. had a nice little free entertainment for the boys. A.M. Wooley, who has been at the front recited some of the “Rhymes of a Red Cross Man” by Robert Service, a Canadian poet. It was very fine. After that a quartette from Booker Washington’s College sang and recited. Most every night there are moving pictures on the grounds and the gang unites in songs. We are learning marching songs now to use on our hikes which will start soon. One of the favorites is “Pack up your troubles in your old kit bag and Smile! Smile! Smile!” which is a favorite at all the training camps throughout the country.
The Phi Delt dinner Thursday night was a great success. About forty of us were present from eighteen or twenty different chapters. We had a room to ourselves and could make all noise and sing all the Phi Delt songs we liked. Afterwards we went in a body to the only vaudeville theater in town. The dinner was fine, everything from soup on and the whole assessment was only a dollar and thirty cents. There are now more than fifty Phis in camp and we plan to have regular get-to-gether meetings every Monday night + to have our pictures taken when we all get uniforms. I haven’t mine yet, by the way, but there are only about fifteen sections not outfitted out of about a hundred + ten so we expect them to-morrow or Tuesday.
There has been another hitch in transfers on account of the pay roll so you had best address me care of section 80 until I tell you differently.
About 50 of the motor ambulances are now here and the rest are expected soon. Over a hundred two-ton Packard trucks have also arrived this week.
I went to church at the Y.M.C.A. tent to-day. Some preacher from Philadelphia spoke about the war. He was very good.
Love to all,
Herbert
Saturday, June 14, 2014
Newcomb-Starr-Dommerich-Moores Tree
I was visiting with a friend and she showed me a book compiled by a cousin about her family. I was flipping through the pages and what should jump out at me? The name Newcomb jumped out at me. And coincidentally enough, while reading the list of descendants from a Moores-Newcomb union, one of the daughters has Starr as a middle name.
My friend is from Maine and her ancestors/cousins are from New Brunswick, Canada. Though I have not yet attached this branch to the one family wikitree, they are obviously - at least to me - connected to the Nova Scotia branch of the Starrs. When I have time I should see if there are any Moores in the Newcomb Genealogy tome from 1923, perhaps that may flush out the connection.
My friend is from Maine and her ancestors/cousins are from New Brunswick, Canada. Though I have not yet attached this branch to the one family wikitree, they are obviously - at least to me - connected to the Nova Scotia branch of the Starrs. When I have time I should see if there are any Moores in the Newcomb Genealogy tome from 1923, perhaps that may flush out the connection.
rough necks vs. clean and gentlemanly
The letters have been sporadic and we seem to jump to June. I have another stack of letters but they seem to be much later, though I need to go through them and see what I find. I confess, scanning is a lot of work. My third cousin did tell me that Charlie & Grace's wedding was on the 21st of June; this is the Sunday following.
It seems so funny that these guys bring their own clothing and things. When did everything change and we outfit our military? Seems logical to have everyone in 'uniform' clothing, but I guess it was the same in the Civil War - go with what you had and defend your country/lifestyle/beliefs.
I should think we all would love to own real estate at 10th Avenue and 20th Street now - though then I guess it was by the active piers; rough necks is probably a very apt term - or are rough necks people who work on oil and gas rigs? It's only a couple blocks north of the Chelsea Market where the Oreo cookie was invented.
And what is lowery? I looked at it a couple times but couldn't make it out and Google doesn't recognize it other than a proper name. I have been known to be obtuse, though, so if anyone else can figure it out....
Sunday (perhaps June 24, 1917)
Dear Mother,
I have been here ten days to-day. Last night I went down town and treated myself to a regular meal – the first meal I’ve had in Allentown outside of the mess hall. Lord knows the meals are not what one gets at home but I suppose I shouldn’t kick because I’ve gained five pounds since I’ve been here.
To-morrow I expect to get a uniform if nothing happens. When I do I will send to you everything I bought with me in the clothing line except one soft shirt and my handkerchiefs. I’ll get three suits of underwear, socks etc. so I will not needs those which I brought.
I was glad to hear that you prevailed upon Edith to go to the wedding. It would have been too bad if she had stayed away. You didn’t say how Grace looked. I was wondering if she had powdered her nose. Charlie hates to have her do it but she always looks like the dickens without it. I knew you’d like Jane. She’s an awfully good sort.
By the way, I expected that after to-morrow I will be a member of Section 49 instead of Section 80. Pretty near all the good men from 80 have left to join friends in other section and there are about eight truck drivers in the section from around 10th Ave and 20th St. N.Y. – awful rough necks whom I am ashamed to be seen with. A chap from the Section 49 asked me to join them to take the place of a chap who was rejected for a weak heart and after seeing the rest of the section I asked permission to do so. They are practically all college men and at any rate they are all clean and gentlemanly, which is more that you can say for the truck drivers in 80.
The weather holds fine. Remarkably Friday was a bit lowery (?) but it all passed over in a couple of fiver minute showers.
I get a cold bath about every day and am beginning to enjoy them, but I’ll be blessed if I like to shave in it. Still I have no choice.
Here are now close to 4000 men here and they are busy building extra barracks – only temporary canvas affair – for about a thousand more.
I rather think you have Karolyn dropping in to see you some afternoon soon – she said something about it in her last letter. She is knitting me one of those dark grey Red Cross sweaters to keep herself busy. They are those affairs with low-necks + no sleeves something like a jersey but they’re heavier and the openings are smaller. Lots of fellows here in camp have them.
Love to all,
Herb
It seems so funny that these guys bring their own clothing and things. When did everything change and we outfit our military? Seems logical to have everyone in 'uniform' clothing, but I guess it was the same in the Civil War - go with what you had and defend your country/lifestyle/beliefs.
I should think we all would love to own real estate at 10th Avenue and 20th Street now - though then I guess it was by the active piers; rough necks is probably a very apt term - or are rough necks people who work on oil and gas rigs? It's only a couple blocks north of the Chelsea Market where the Oreo cookie was invented.
And what is lowery? I looked at it a couple times but couldn't make it out and Google doesn't recognize it other than a proper name. I have been known to be obtuse, though, so if anyone else can figure it out....
Sunday (perhaps June 24, 1917)
Dear Mother,
I have been here ten days to-day. Last night I went down town and treated myself to a regular meal – the first meal I’ve had in Allentown outside of the mess hall. Lord knows the meals are not what one gets at home but I suppose I shouldn’t kick because I’ve gained five pounds since I’ve been here.
To-morrow I expect to get a uniform if nothing happens. When I do I will send to you everything I bought with me in the clothing line except one soft shirt and my handkerchiefs. I’ll get three suits of underwear, socks etc. so I will not needs those which I brought.
I was glad to hear that you prevailed upon Edith to go to the wedding. It would have been too bad if she had stayed away. You didn’t say how Grace looked. I was wondering if she had powdered her nose. Charlie hates to have her do it but she always looks like the dickens without it. I knew you’d like Jane. She’s an awfully good sort.
By the way, I expected that after to-morrow I will be a member of Section 49 instead of Section 80. Pretty near all the good men from 80 have left to join friends in other section and there are about eight truck drivers in the section from around 10th Ave and 20th St. N.Y. – awful rough necks whom I am ashamed to be seen with. A chap from the Section 49 asked me to join them to take the place of a chap who was rejected for a weak heart and after seeing the rest of the section I asked permission to do so. They are practically all college men and at any rate they are all clean and gentlemanly, which is more that you can say for the truck drivers in 80.
The weather holds fine. Remarkably Friday was a bit lowery (?) but it all passed over in a couple of fiver minute showers.
I get a cold bath about every day and am beginning to enjoy them, but I’ll be blessed if I like to shave in it. Still I have no choice.
Here are now close to 4000 men here and they are busy building extra barracks – only temporary canvas affair – for about a thousand more.
I rather think you have Karolyn dropping in to see you some afternoon soon – she said something about it in her last letter. She is knitting me one of those dark grey Red Cross sweaters to keep herself busy. They are those affairs with low-necks + no sleeves something like a jersey but they’re heavier and the openings are smaller. Lots of fellows here in camp have them.
Love to all,
Herb
Friday, June 13, 2014
Ahhhh, maybe not fighting for humanitarian reasons....
I may have gotten this letter out of order - I will need to spend more time reflecting upon the content to figure out where it goes in sequence.
I don't know what a statistician is doing working on the Interborough Rapid Transit Co. - though maybe they desire to issue bonds, so Herb is working on that. The NYC subway was privately owned until June 1940, and this was the private company which built the system which opened in 1904. Wow, can you imagine what the subway was like when it was clean and new?
Fred Judson, remember, is on the letterhead of the company and has joined the Mosquito Fleet. Though not a family member, it might be fun to learn more about him.
Sunday – date unknown, but perhaps May 1917
Dear Family,
Kimber and I have just returned from a stroll through the park. It’s a beautiful day and the park was lovely – but the people. Honestly, we felt like foreigners. The place was full of Jews who come with their lunches and spend the day.
Well, the draft is coming. I won’t register because I won’t have to, but if we really are going to send troops across and it certainly looks like it, I’m going to enlist.
Mr. Friedman and I have been working until after eleven o’clock at night this week finishing up a study of the Interborough Rapid Transit Co. I certainly was glad when we finished it yesterday.
Fred Judson went to join his crew Tuesday. He was in for a while Saturday, looking very much sunburned. The boat hasn’t put to sea yet. They were only getting things in shape and taking on supplies.
I haven’t seen much of Charlie the past week – only once or twice for a few minutes chat. He has been very busy, too.
Jane Parker has a position with Banker’s Trust Co. She starts work tomorrow.
Charlie and Grace have been scouring the country lately looking for a house but haven’t had any luck yet.
I haven’t been up to see Edith in a long time so I think I’ll try to get up some night this week.
I think the reason why I didn’t get in on Plattsburgh is my age. Steve Lee was a year back of me in college but he is twenty-four. Phike Morris is twenty-five.
That’s the only reason I can think of because I was pronounced physically fit and I think I’m intelligent enough.
Friedman tells me to wait but he’s one of these people who think there won’t be any fighting for America to do. Anyway you couldn’t expect much else from him because he hasn’t any red blood in his veins any way.
I won’t do anything for a couple of weeks anyway and before I do I’ll come up and stay a few days.
Love to all,
Herbert
I don't know what a statistician is doing working on the Interborough Rapid Transit Co. - though maybe they desire to issue bonds, so Herb is working on that. The NYC subway was privately owned until June 1940, and this was the private company which built the system which opened in 1904. Wow, can you imagine what the subway was like when it was clean and new?
Fred Judson, remember, is on the letterhead of the company and has joined the Mosquito Fleet. Though not a family member, it might be fun to learn more about him.
Sunday – date unknown, but perhaps May 1917
Dear Family,
Kimber and I have just returned from a stroll through the park. It’s a beautiful day and the park was lovely – but the people. Honestly, we felt like foreigners. The place was full of Jews who come with their lunches and spend the day.
Well, the draft is coming. I won’t register because I won’t have to, but if we really are going to send troops across and it certainly looks like it, I’m going to enlist.
Mr. Friedman and I have been working until after eleven o’clock at night this week finishing up a study of the Interborough Rapid Transit Co. I certainly was glad when we finished it yesterday.
Fred Judson went to join his crew Tuesday. He was in for a while Saturday, looking very much sunburned. The boat hasn’t put to sea yet. They were only getting things in shape and taking on supplies.
I haven’t seen much of Charlie the past week – only once or twice for a few minutes chat. He has been very busy, too.
Jane Parker has a position with Banker’s Trust Co. She starts work tomorrow.
Charlie and Grace have been scouring the country lately looking for a house but haven’t had any luck yet.
I haven’t been up to see Edith in a long time so I think I’ll try to get up some night this week.
I think the reason why I didn’t get in on Plattsburgh is my age. Steve Lee was a year back of me in college but he is twenty-four. Phike Morris is twenty-five.
That’s the only reason I can think of because I was pronounced physically fit and I think I’m intelligent enough.
Friedman tells me to wait but he’s one of these people who think there won’t be any fighting for America to do. Anyway you couldn’t expect much else from him because he hasn’t any red blood in his veins any way.
I won’t do anything for a couple of weeks anyway and before I do I’ll come up and stay a few days.
Love to all,
Herbert
Thursday, June 12, 2014
OohRah
And now we need to figure out who Mr. Rankin is.....
It seems that Jane Parker is living with her mother.... That might give me a clue as to who she is, as I am doubting my assumption that she is Russell's sister.
I am going to assume that Karolyn is graduating from college, not high school given how much traveling and running around she is doing; seems too much for a highschooler.
I asked the folks at Syracuse University what these Corpse and Coffin things were; I got an answer, but I can't claim that I understood it:
I went to New York City on Friday to get some marriage, birth and death certificates from the NYC Municipal Archives. I was successful and will eventually share, but I had an opportunity to walk to 60 Wall Street to see where Herb worked. As we can assume, it looks nothing like it did in 1917, though the address still exists. Now it is the Deutsche Bank building. I chatted up the guard at the entrance and he indicated that the current enormous tower was built in the 1960s by, he believed, Banker's Trust. According to Deutsche Bank's web site, they acquired Banker's Trust in 1999 making Deutsche Bank a real mover and shaker in the US. So, our connection remains with the address 60 Wall Street.
Huntington is a town on the northern side of Long Island about an hour from Penn Station. Clearly by the Federal Census record I have noted, there are large estates there - and people who work on those estates....
Investigating further we learn from their web site:
I can imagine that Herb, Charlie and Grace stopped to watch the construction of the Palace Theater when they went to visit Aunt/Mom Ida.
Thursday – date unknown, May 1917
Dear Family,
I’m glad you’ve told me just how you feel about the question of my enlisting. I’ve thought it over very carefully and I won’t enlist for a month or two yet.
And now I’ll try to answer all your questions about the different branches of the service.
I think the marines – from what I’ve seen of them – are a mighty fine bunch of men. I’ve talked with several Marine Corps recruiting sergeants and they certainly are men to be admired – husky brown and yet very well bred + courteous and seemingly pretty well educated. If I do decide that I really should enlist I want to be with some men who have seen service and have been under fire. Most of the marines have. And the marine officers are all well-seasoned men who will know how to look after the men under them. That’s my objection to the National Guard and the Mosquito fleet. They’re too blamed amateurish – and it will go awfully hard with amateurs if there’s any fighting.
I’ve quite given up all hope of Plattsburgh. I think I was turned down on account of my youth – Fike says most of the men up there are twenty-eight or over. I’m confident that Mr. Rankin would intercede for me if he could but it’s a strictly military matter and he would have no influence.
I was up to see Jane last night. She says she enjoys working. She doesn’t have to work but there isn’t enough work around a small apartment to keep her and her mother both busy.
This place Charlie has in mind is in Hasbrouk Heights, New Jersey. They still expect to go down to Huntingdon for a while I think but they want to get a house if they can and have it all ready when they want to come back. Someone has an option on the place to buy it until June 15th but the owner told them he didn’t think the party would take it.
I was thinking of coming home in a couple of weeks but Karolyn wants me to come up June 12th because she graduates then.
Love to all,
Herbert
It seems that Jane Parker is living with her mother.... That might give me a clue as to who she is, as I am doubting my assumption that she is Russell's sister.
I am going to assume that Karolyn is graduating from college, not high school given how much traveling and running around she is doing; seems too much for a highschooler.
I asked the folks at Syracuse University what these Corpse and Coffin things were; I got an answer, but I can't claim that I understood it:
These organization were different class societies. The Corpse & Coffin was a Junior Society founded at Syracuse University in 1889. The Skull & Serpent was a Sophomore Society founded in 1902.What is a class society?
I went to New York City on Friday to get some marriage, birth and death certificates from the NYC Municipal Archives. I was successful and will eventually share, but I had an opportunity to walk to 60 Wall Street to see where Herb worked. As we can assume, it looks nothing like it did in 1917, though the address still exists. Now it is the Deutsche Bank building. I chatted up the guard at the entrance and he indicated that the current enormous tower was built in the 1960s by, he believed, Banker's Trust. According to Deutsche Bank's web site, they acquired Banker's Trust in 1999 making Deutsche Bank a real mover and shaker in the US. So, our connection remains with the address 60 Wall Street.
Huntington is a town on the northern side of Long Island about an hour from Penn Station. Clearly by the Federal Census record I have noted, there are large estates there - and people who work on those estates....
Investigating further we learn from their web site:
History: The Town is located at the western end of Suffolk County adjacent to the Nassau-Suffolk County boundary. It is approximately 40 miles from Manhattan and 40 miles from Riverhead, the Suffolk County seat. The History of Huntington is closely associated with the early development of the American colonies. The community was originally settled in 1653, well within the lifetime of the earliest New England colonist. In the beginning, water-borne transportation gave life to the community. The natural harbors offered ready access to the farmlands of the Long Island interior. The harbor was the setting for the early Huntington community which became the focal point for the movement of agricultural products into the commerce of the colonies. Although agriculture was its mainstay and water-borne transportation its lifeline for two centuries, in later years the whaling industry and expanded manufacturing activity broadened the local economy and gave impetus to the expansion of the harbor communities of Cold Spring Harbor, Huntington, and Northport.
By the early twentieth century thousands of acres of productive farmland were laying fallow because the land had been appropriated for large estates. Marshall Field, Robert DeForest, Otto Kahn, Charles Gould, August Heckscher, George McKesson Brown, Walter Jennings, Roland Conklin and many others extended Long Island’s Gold Coast into Huntington. The middle class was also attracted to Huntington. Summer bungalow communities developed along the shores of Centerport Harbor, Huntington Bay and Huntington Harbor during the 1920s.
From 1920 to 1930, Huntington’s population increased 84% from 13,893 to 25,582. Huntington village began to take shape with one large building project after another along New York Avenue: The Palace Theatre in 1917, the Huntington Theatre and Huntington Office Building in 1927, The Huntington Mortgage Building in 1928 and the Hotel Huntington in 1929.
I can imagine that Herb, Charlie and Grace stopped to watch the construction of the Palace Theater when they went to visit Aunt/Mom Ida.
Thursday – date unknown, May 1917
Dear Family,
I’m glad you’ve told me just how you feel about the question of my enlisting. I’ve thought it over very carefully and I won’t enlist for a month or two yet.
And now I’ll try to answer all your questions about the different branches of the service.
I think the marines – from what I’ve seen of them – are a mighty fine bunch of men. I’ve talked with several Marine Corps recruiting sergeants and they certainly are men to be admired – husky brown and yet very well bred + courteous and seemingly pretty well educated. If I do decide that I really should enlist I want to be with some men who have seen service and have been under fire. Most of the marines have. And the marine officers are all well-seasoned men who will know how to look after the men under them. That’s my objection to the National Guard and the Mosquito fleet. They’re too blamed amateurish – and it will go awfully hard with amateurs if there’s any fighting.
I’ve quite given up all hope of Plattsburgh. I think I was turned down on account of my youth – Fike says most of the men up there are twenty-eight or over. I’m confident that Mr. Rankin would intercede for me if he could but it’s a strictly military matter and he would have no influence.
I was up to see Jane last night. She says she enjoys working. She doesn’t have to work but there isn’t enough work around a small apartment to keep her and her mother both busy.
This place Charlie has in mind is in Hasbrouk Heights, New Jersey. They still expect to go down to Huntingdon for a while I think but they want to get a house if they can and have it all ready when they want to come back. Someone has an option on the place to buy it until June 15th but the owner told them he didn’t think the party would take it.
I was thinking of coming home in a couple of weeks but Karolyn wants me to come up June 12th because she graduates then.
Love to all,
Herbert
Monday, June 9, 2014
Blaue Gans Restaurant - A Review
I took advantage of my Tribeca location and walked to Blaue Gans two blocks north of my hotel at 139 Duane Street. I am surrounded by plenty of places to eat, but this restaurant was listed on Open Table - and they have schnitzel, so I had to go. I was very happy that I decided to do this, as it got me away from Ancestry.com and Family Tree Maker. Perhaps there was a convergence given I was entering some information about the German side of my family.
I started with the white asparagus and south Tyrolian ham and then had the weiner schnitzel with the potato and cucumber salad. The asparagus and ham was a nice, cold combination of crunch and saltiness. The potato salad had nice mustard and dill flavors and good texture. The schnitzel was a large portion that I could not finish.
I didn't catch the name of my server, but she was attentive yet wasn't fussing over me. The gentleman in charge of the floor did come over and ask how everything was. I brought my book and also had a very good view of the open, tall dining room with it's forty + tables, so I was very content and entertained.
Looks like Blaue Gans is a part of a restaurant group. I would sit again at Kurt Gutenbrunner's table.
I started with the white asparagus and south Tyrolian ham and then had the weiner schnitzel with the potato and cucumber salad. The asparagus and ham was a nice, cold combination of crunch and saltiness. The potato salad had nice mustard and dill flavors and good texture. The schnitzel was a large portion that I could not finish.
I didn't catch the name of my server, but she was attentive yet wasn't fussing over me. The gentleman in charge of the floor did come over and ask how everything was. I brought my book and also had a very good view of the open, tall dining room with it's forty + tables, so I was very content and entertained.
Looks like Blaue Gans is a part of a restaurant group. I would sit again at Kurt Gutenbrunner's table.
Sunday, June 8, 2014
The Marines
In his disappointment of not being accepted to the Reserve Corps, it seems Herb got over the aversion to the four year term with the Marines, but he is still a little hesitant. I suspect that is not a unique feeling.
I discovered a little more about Fred Judson: in researching Herb's income from the Case, Pomeroy & Co. I saw that Fred's name is also on the top of the letterhead with that of Case and Pomeroy. A young partner, it would seem.
Makes me wonder when Fred decided to join the Mosquito fleet and what he worked out with the firm.
Looks as though the $30/month that Herb mentions is pretty good. I mean, his salary with Case Pomery doesn't seem to be much different. This letter is from July, so much later than the letter home.
Wednesday – date unknown, perhaps May 1917
Dear Mother,
I applied this morning for the Marine Corps and was turned down on account of my front teeth. I then tried the army and passed the examination but wasn’t sworn in because I wouldn’t agree to go to-morrow. So I am free for the time being but they have my name and the description of my physical condition so they’ll probably send for me anyway. I was in to see Charley. He congratulated me and said he was proud of me. So did Friedman. To-morrow I’m going to Mineola to see if I can get in the Signal Corps as a regular private - $30 a month You see I’m free now to enlist where I want to but I’ll have to enlist or they will make it uncomfortable for me, having gone so far. At any rate I’m sure I’m right.
I think the Signal Corps is a good place. They aren’t under fire much, only by accident, but they do a lot of real work. I’ll write again to-morrow night + let you know all about it. I’ll be home Saturday or Sunday as I’m straightening out my affairs in the office.
Love,
Herbert
I discovered a little more about Fred Judson: in researching Herb's income from the Case, Pomeroy & Co. I saw that Fred's name is also on the top of the letterhead with that of Case and Pomeroy. A young partner, it would seem.
Makes me wonder when Fred decided to join the Mosquito fleet and what he worked out with the firm.
Looks as though the $30/month that Herb mentions is pretty good. I mean, his salary with Case Pomery doesn't seem to be much different. This letter is from July, so much later than the letter home.
Wednesday – date unknown, perhaps May 1917
Dear Mother,
I applied this morning for the Marine Corps and was turned down on account of my front teeth. I then tried the army and passed the examination but wasn’t sworn in because I wouldn’t agree to go to-morrow. So I am free for the time being but they have my name and the description of my physical condition so they’ll probably send for me anyway. I was in to see Charley. He congratulated me and said he was proud of me. So did Friedman. To-morrow I’m going to Mineola to see if I can get in the Signal Corps as a regular private - $30 a month You see I’m free now to enlist where I want to but I’ll have to enlist or they will make it uncomfortable for me, having gone so far. At any rate I’m sure I’m right.
I think the Signal Corps is a good place. They aren’t under fire much, only by accident, but they do a lot of real work. I’ll write again to-morrow night + let you know all about it. I’ll be home Saturday or Sunday as I’m straightening out my affairs in the office.
Love,
Herbert
Saturday, June 7, 2014
Disappointment
I suppose my readers already suspected Herb did not make it in to the Reserve Corps, given we originally found him in the Ambulance Corps. I am glad 'horribly disappointed' was not suicidal as for this other broker, Walter Scheftel. What was this guy thinking in late May 1917?
I wrote Syracuse University and look what they kindly provided:
This is Harold Kimber, from East Syracuse, NY. He was a very active guy, being associated with several Greek organizations, the Assistant Manager of Track, Chemical Club, Manager of Freshman Baseball, Manager of Varsity Track, Member of the Athletic Governing Board, Treasurer Class, Executive Committee, President Senior Council, and Senior Ball Committee.
And here we find Oliver Wolcott Morris:
Ole Phike was also associated with several Greek organizations, Senior Dinner Club, Corpse and Coffin, Baseball Squad, and the Athletic Dinner Committee. He hails from Long Beach, NJ.
What is Corpse and Coffin, I wonder. It's not Yale, so not the Skull and Crossbones.... Hmmm.
Paul Tracy Crosby, from Seneca Falls, NY, is associated with the Skull and Serpent.... as well as Baseball and Class Team.
The kind folks at Syracuse tell me Steve Lee is Stephen M. Lee, but they could find no photos of him, (Herb was also very camera shy.... maybe because of those front teeth!)
Wednesday evening – date unknown, May 1917
Dear Mother,
Well I wasn’t elected. I feel horribly disappointed. I did so want to get out and do something worthwhile. There doesn’t seem much else left to do. The term of enlistment in the navy + marines is four years – that’s too long. The National Guard – well I don’t like to guard bridges. So I guess I’ll have to sit tight for a couple of weeks.
Phike Morris + Steve Lee were lucky. They leave for Plattsburgh this week. And by a rather remarkable chance both are listed for the same company. They both felt bad because I wasn’t going along – almost as bad as I felt myself. So all there are left of the Phi Delts are Doc Crosby who will be a regular navy doctor in a couple of weeks and Kimber, who seems to be the conscientious objector. I think rather that he is yellow.
I have three nice new front teeth now. They look better than the others but I have not quite become accustomed to them yet. Guess what the bill was. Two dollars. I accused the dentist of cooking up a deal on me with Fred Judson but he stood pat. I don’t know whether to accuse Fred of it or not. It was a very generous offer, made freely, and perhaps I should not say anything.
Charley, Grace, Jane and I were to the movies last night. The wedding is more or less in the air, awaiting developments.
Love to all,
Herbert
I wrote Syracuse University and look what they kindly provided:
And here we find Oliver Wolcott Morris:
Ole Phike was also associated with several Greek organizations, Senior Dinner Club, Corpse and Coffin, Baseball Squad, and the Athletic Dinner Committee. He hails from Long Beach, NJ.
What is Corpse and Coffin, I wonder. It's not Yale, so not the Skull and Crossbones.... Hmmm.
Paul Tracy Crosby, from Seneca Falls, NY, is associated with the Skull and Serpent.... as well as Baseball and Class Team.
The kind folks at Syracuse tell me Steve Lee is Stephen M. Lee, but they could find no photos of him, (Herb was also very camera shy.... maybe because of those front teeth!)
Wednesday evening – date unknown, May 1917
Dear Mother,
Well I wasn’t elected. I feel horribly disappointed. I did so want to get out and do something worthwhile. There doesn’t seem much else left to do. The term of enlistment in the navy + marines is four years – that’s too long. The National Guard – well I don’t like to guard bridges. So I guess I’ll have to sit tight for a couple of weeks.
Phike Morris + Steve Lee were lucky. They leave for Plattsburgh this week. And by a rather remarkable chance both are listed for the same company. They both felt bad because I wasn’t going along – almost as bad as I felt myself. So all there are left of the Phi Delts are Doc Crosby who will be a regular navy doctor in a couple of weeks and Kimber, who seems to be the conscientious objector. I think rather that he is yellow.
I have three nice new front teeth now. They look better than the others but I have not quite become accustomed to them yet. Guess what the bill was. Two dollars. I accused the dentist of cooking up a deal on me with Fred Judson but he stood pat. I don’t know whether to accuse Fred of it or not. It was a very generous offer, made freely, and perhaps I should not say anything.
Charley, Grace, Jane and I were to the movies last night. The wedding is more or less in the air, awaiting developments.
Love to all,
Herbert
Friday, June 6, 2014
NYC Archives and the Cosmopolitan Hotel
I was headed North by car and decided to make a 5 hour pop in to the Municipal Archives at 31 chambers Street in Manhattan. The building is so great - and so peculiar how quiet it is for a city government building. The vital records department is a hive of busy bees, but the rest of the building is without activity. It's odd, really.
I made a hotel reservation yesterday morning and got a pretty good rate - $289 - at the Cosmopolitan Hotel on the corner of Chambers and West Broadway. $45 to park the car over night, though, and dinner, so it adds up. It has occurred to me, however, that I might want to pay to have copies made of the certificates as I sit at home, because even getting them myself, the city must certify them and that's another $11 per copy. Why NYC thinks I need a certified copy of a death certificate for someone who died over 100 years ago, I can't fathom. I bought 10 certificates this afternoon, so another $110 to the cost of my trip.
The hotel is very conveniently located and there are lots of casual - I am only here to get death, birth and marriage certificates, after all - restaurants nearby. The room has a safe, an ironing board, and seems clean. Only one, small elevator, however. If I were on a lower floor that wouldn't hinder me, but the 6th is just high enough to be a pain. But, we have another lovely view from the room, much like at the Wellington Hotel I reviewed earlier. I didn't complain this time.... I got a cheap rate and I was going to be out of the room any way.
I wanted to acknowledge that today is the 70th anniversary of D-Day. Herb's son was the beneficiary of the GI bill, though he was not part of D-Day. He served in the US Navy, though I have done very little research on this subject.
I made a hotel reservation yesterday morning and got a pretty good rate - $289 - at the Cosmopolitan Hotel on the corner of Chambers and West Broadway. $45 to park the car over night, though, and dinner, so it adds up. It has occurred to me, however, that I might want to pay to have copies made of the certificates as I sit at home, because even getting them myself, the city must certify them and that's another $11 per copy. Why NYC thinks I need a certified copy of a death certificate for someone who died over 100 years ago, I can't fathom. I bought 10 certificates this afternoon, so another $110 to the cost of my trip.
The hotel is very conveniently located and there are lots of casual - I am only here to get death, birth and marriage certificates, after all - restaurants nearby. The room has a safe, an ironing board, and seems clean. Only one, small elevator, however. If I were on a lower floor that wouldn't hinder me, but the 6th is just high enough to be a pain. But, we have another lovely view from the room, much like at the Wellington Hotel I reviewed earlier. I didn't complain this time.... I got a cheap rate and I was going to be out of the room any way.
I wanted to acknowledge that today is the 70th anniversary of D-Day. Herb's son was the beneficiary of the GI bill, though he was not part of D-Day. He served in the US Navy, though I have done very little research on this subject.
Thursday, June 5, 2014
More clothing, gossip and Edith
I am having trouble putting this letter in order with the others, though it is clearly early on in our letter writing, as there is no mention of the war and Herb is still feeling his way with Mr. Friedman.
I have no idea who Aunt Phoebe is. I am going to assume that she is a Kirkpatrick from Troy, NY. Obviously Nellie Jane is telling Herb the news, not the other way around, so she must be corresponding or visiting directly with Nellie Jane, not Herb.
Did I mention that I found a Burdella Curry living at the same address with the Lees in Troy? It's a private home, not an apartment building, so they are certainly intimately familiar with one another, but Aunt may be an affectionate title only and she may not be Herb's biological Aunt. It's a unique enough name that with a little sleuthing I should be able to figure some things out. In the census, Oliver is listed as the first 'Head' with William Curry being listed as the second 'Head' at the address, so I assume the Lees answered the door when the census taker came calling
Olive, Aunt Burdella and Margaret
93 6th Avenue, Upper Troy, NY
I don't know who Bill Jackson is, though as Herb doesn't explain who he is to his mother, she must be familiar with him, as are the Cornells, obviously.
And Earl Jessen - he plans to be selling stocks and bonds though he doesn't know the difference? Makes one wonder, doesn't it? We haven't had the Great Depression yet, but wasn't there a financial crisis in the 1880s or something? Really? this is just same s*%#, different day with Wall Street.
I have noticed that there is no mention of a Karolyn in these early letters. I am dying to find out when they meet and how. Given these early letters, it seems he went from zero to sixty in his affection for her.... I mean, if this letter is in the early, early spring, and our letters about Karolyn start in the summer, when does he have the time to meet and court her? Hmm.
Letter is missing the front page
that the Phi Delt gave the Beta Thet’s not a word as to whether he was still going to college or not.
Aunt Phoebe must have had something the same as Dad, didn’t she.
Edith was only in town a few days. She went back Tuesday or Wednesday + took Howard with her. I think she will stay now all through the summer. Aunt Ida is doing very nicely. Of course she’s a bit weak still.
We didn’t go over to Jane’s Tuesday owing to some mix up but are going this Tuesday. To-day Charles + Grace are over visiting Bill Jackson over in Jersey.
There has been an awful lot of work to do lately – all interesting + new. I’ve learned a lot – haven’t even had time for the ordinary routine. Yesterday Mr. Friedman had me out to lunch with him so he’d have a good chance to talk with me about myself. I think he likes me fine. I certainly hope so.
Last Tuesday I ran in to Earl Jessen in the automat. He came down the week before to be a stock + bond salesman. Next week he starts out with a territory around Utica. Mind you, he didn’t know a stock from a bond when he came down. I went down to see him Thursday night at the Empire Hotel 63rd St + Broadway. We took a long walk and had a good gossip about the people we used to know when we were in High School.
Of course, Mother, I shall be awfully glad to get that package but you really ought not have bothered with such things now. You have enough to do. This week I had to have my black suit overhauled. The sleeve linings were loose top + bottom, two pockets were torn and there were several loose buttons + belt loops as well as a badly frayed pair of trouser bottoms. I wouldn’t have done it for a dollar myself but the tailor only charged me fifty cents.
I wish you would keep me posted as to how Dad gets along. Naturally, I’m a bit worried.
Love to all
Herb
I have no idea who Aunt Phoebe is. I am going to assume that she is a Kirkpatrick from Troy, NY. Obviously Nellie Jane is telling Herb the news, not the other way around, so she must be corresponding or visiting directly with Nellie Jane, not Herb.
Did I mention that I found a Burdella Curry living at the same address with the Lees in Troy? It's a private home, not an apartment building, so they are certainly intimately familiar with one another, but Aunt may be an affectionate title only and she may not be Herb's biological Aunt. It's a unique enough name that with a little sleuthing I should be able to figure some things out. In the census, Oliver is listed as the first 'Head' with William Curry being listed as the second 'Head' at the address, so I assume the Lees answered the door when the census taker came calling
93 6th Avenue, Upper Troy, NY
I don't know who Bill Jackson is, though as Herb doesn't explain who he is to his mother, she must be familiar with him, as are the Cornells, obviously.
And Earl Jessen - he plans to be selling stocks and bonds though he doesn't know the difference? Makes one wonder, doesn't it? We haven't had the Great Depression yet, but wasn't there a financial crisis in the 1880s or something? Really? this is just same s*%#, different day with Wall Street.
I have noticed that there is no mention of a Karolyn in these early letters. I am dying to find out when they meet and how. Given these early letters, it seems he went from zero to sixty in his affection for her.... I mean, if this letter is in the early, early spring, and our letters about Karolyn start in the summer, when does he have the time to meet and court her? Hmm.
Letter is missing the front page
that the Phi Delt gave the Beta Thet’s not a word as to whether he was still going to college or not.
Aunt Phoebe must have had something the same as Dad, didn’t she.
Edith was only in town a few days. She went back Tuesday or Wednesday + took Howard with her. I think she will stay now all through the summer. Aunt Ida is doing very nicely. Of course she’s a bit weak still.
We didn’t go over to Jane’s Tuesday owing to some mix up but are going this Tuesday. To-day Charles + Grace are over visiting Bill Jackson over in Jersey.
There has been an awful lot of work to do lately – all interesting + new. I’ve learned a lot – haven’t even had time for the ordinary routine. Yesterday Mr. Friedman had me out to lunch with him so he’d have a good chance to talk with me about myself. I think he likes me fine. I certainly hope so.
Last Tuesday I ran in to Earl Jessen in the automat. He came down the week before to be a stock + bond salesman. Next week he starts out with a territory around Utica. Mind you, he didn’t know a stock from a bond when he came down. I went down to see him Thursday night at the Empire Hotel 63rd St + Broadway. We took a long walk and had a good gossip about the people we used to know when we were in High School.
Of course, Mother, I shall be awfully glad to get that package but you really ought not have bothered with such things now. You have enough to do. This week I had to have my black suit overhauled. The sleeve linings were loose top + bottom, two pockets were torn and there were several loose buttons + belt loops as well as a badly frayed pair of trouser bottoms. I wouldn’t have done it for a dollar myself but the tailor only charged me fifty cents.
I wish you would keep me posted as to how Dad gets along. Naturally, I’m a bit worried.
Love to all
Herb
Wednesday, June 4, 2014
Library of Congress
I had a day without appointments so I decided to check out the Library of Congress to see what they had which might help me with my research. It seems that since November they have closed the genealogy reading room and have combined that collection with Main Reading room. I was sorry to hear it, and of course one must request any books be bought from the closed stacks. Luckily, if one has a researchers card, one can go on-line and reserve ahead of time at home. Given that it can take quite a bit of time to get any books from the stacks, that is a nice feature.
They do have some of the reference books available to the public; bring your sweater, though, as they keep the stacks appropriately cool.
The main reading room is spectacular and my photographs do not do it justice.
For what I was seeking, though, I will head back to the National Archives; there they have volunteer genealogists and the stacks are warmer.
They do have some of the reference books available to the public; bring your sweater, though, as they keep the stacks appropriately cool.
The main reading room is spectacular and my photographs do not do it justice.
For what I was seeking, though, I will head back to the National Archives; there they have volunteer genealogists and the stacks are warmer.
Tuesday, June 3, 2014
There weren't any quitters in the family during the Civil War
I have been tracking the Lee family, though I don't actually know when they arrived in the US; I have hit a brick wall there. I do know, however, that the Kirkpatricks fought in the Civil War - arriving around 1830, before the Irish potato famine. I only just discovered the Wrights - Oliver Tree's mother-in-law's family. I haven't yet done that research, but I did find some Wrights living with Martha and Charles Kirkpatrick in Troy, hence how I discovered the name.
The central monument in the Kirkpatrick plot has a Civil War style cap on it. I was proud when one of the historians at the Rensselear Historical Society indicated that when she does her Civil War walk of Oakwood Cemetery she always passes by that memorial. One of the Kirkpatricks - Andrew, Jr. - fought and died in the War. His body was first buried in Virginia, but a fellow 'Burgher (Lansingburgh, the former name for Upper Troy), brought his remains with those of a few other young 'chaps' home to be buried. Andrew served with the 169th Regiment, New York Infantry, Company K. Story of his return was in the Lansingburgh Gazette on October 20, 1864.
In that attic stash I found some old unlabeled photographs of Civil War soldiers.
The boy looks very young; the other might be Andrew. I wish they were labeled.
I wonder how much discussion of the Kirkpatrick and Wright participation in the Civil War there was when Herb was growing up. Obviously by his comment, the family was proud of having done 'their duty'. And obviously at any family burial the family would have seen the tall central monument and had reason to discuss the family members already buried there. (I just wish I had more of that discussion!)
No date provided
Dear Mother,
This letter is private – just for you. For Heaven’s sake don’t worry yet. No one knows so far what will be done. I don’t know what the firm will do but I am confident that they’ll be pretty willing to let me go + keep my job for me. And anyway I could get another just as good. Charlie’s department is being enlarged greatly + I am confident he would do something for me. The other part of it will be all right, too. If there is a call I’ll be on the list of course. But it will take nine months to train me, anyway. And there’s no reason why I shouldn’t go. I’m perfectly normal and we’ve been Americans for a good many years you know. There weren’t any quitters in the family during the Civil War + and there isn’t going to be now. It’s only fair that we young unmarried chaps should be called first. If the call comes I shall present myself at once + if they want to take me I’ll be ready. At the most it means losing a year and I’m awfully young yet. Anyway, don’t worry, it will be all right.
Lovingly,
Herbert
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