This page presents a collection of letters written by Lorena Lane McNeil (later McClure) during the years prior to her institutionalization at Gowanda State Hospital. The earliest surviving letter dates to January 30, 1930, and the latest in this set is from December 1940, just before the first known letter from Gowanda dated January 3, 1941. These letters reflect Lorena's thoughts on daily life, family matters, economic struggles, and health concerns during the Great Depression and its aftermath.
Each entry includes original metadata, a full transcript, a link to the original file, and contextual notes.
January 30th, 1930: Invitation to discuss teaching plans over lunch
[edit]
| Letter Metadata |
|---|
| Sender | Marie G. Hasenflue |
| Recipient | Lorena Lane McNeil |
| Recipient’s Address | Woodland School, Buckeye Rd. opp. Ambler, Cleveland, Ohio |
| Sender’s Address | (not specified) |
| Date Written | (not specified; assumed to match postmark date: 1930-01-30) |
| Postmark Date | 1930-01-30 |
| Postmark Location | Cleveland, Ohio |
| Postmark Time | 9:30 AM |
| Relationship | Colleague or peer to colleague |
| Subject | Invitation to discuss teaching plans over lunch |
| Tags | education, geography, history, lunch invitation, professional networking |
| File | [OPEN PDF] |
Dear Mrs. McClure,
My sister was at Woodland today and told me of meeting you and of your plans in Geog. & History. Those are my subjects at Dike and I would so much like to hear more about your methods. Would you be willing to share with me?
Let’s have lunch together Saturday. I have an appt. with the dentist in the A.M. but would be delighted to meet you at 12:30 or so. Will you have lunch at Halle’s or, Lindner’s or Charm House with me? Please phone me at Dike School any time Friday. I’m right across from the office and can easily come to phone.
(I) Shall appreciate talking over the work with you.
Sincerely
Marie T. Hasenflue
- This letter establishes that Lorena McNeil was employed at the Woodland School in Cleveland, Ohio during the 1929-1930 school year.
- At this time, her daughter Fannie McClure would have been ~12.5 years old.
- The Woodland School would eventually be abandoned and it was only recently demolished.
- This letter also establishes that Lorena was viewed by peers as a skilled and innovative teacher whose methods others actively sought to learn from.
- It's also interesting to note that Lorena taught history - a subject that has remained a strong interest among many of her descendants.
August 1st, 1934: Lily Dale Assembly Membership Ticket
[edit]
| Letter Metadata |
|---|
| Sender | Lily Dale Assembly |
| Recipient | Lorena Lane McNeil |
| Recipient’s Address | (not specified) |
| Sender’s Address | Lily Dale, New York |
| Date Written | 1934-08-01 |
| Postmark Date | (not applicable) |
| Postmark Location | (not applicable) |
| Postmark Time | (not applicable) |
| Relationship | Membership record from organization to individual |
| Subject | Proof of Lily Dale Assembly membership and dues payment |
| Tags | Lily Dale, Spiritualism, membership, 1930s, Lorena McClure |
| File | [OPEN PDF] |
LILY DALE ASSEMBLY
MEMBERSHIP TICKET
THIS IS TO CERTIFY THAT
Lorena McClure
HAS PAID MEMBERSHIP FEES FOR YEAR ENDING
AUG - 1 1934
M. H. Van Buskirk
TREASURER
Handwritten in lower left corner:
$1.00
- In the 1930 US Federal Census, Lorena was listed as a resident of Cleveland, Ohio. By the 1940 US Federal Census, she was listed as an "inmate" of the Gowanda State Homeopathic Hospital. Given this, it was only a few short years that she would have lived in Lily Dale, NY.
- The $1.00 membership fee in 1934 is equivalent to approximately $24.44 today. To become a member of the Lily Dale Assembly today, there is a $175 application fee along with $100 in annual dues.
- What motivated Lorena to move to Lily Dale, a known Spiritualist community, when we have no prior evidence of her involvement in Spiritualism? Could it have been tied to economic hardship during the Depression or was there a personal or professional connection that drew her there?
January 8th, 1935: Pension inquiry and teaching position outlook
[edit]
| Letter Metadata |
|---|
| Sender | J. Earle Thomson, Superintendent of Schools |
| Recipient | Lorena McClure |
| Recipient’s Address | Mrs. Lorena McClure, 3 South Street, Lily Dale, New York |
| Sender’s Address | Board of Education, Columbus School No. 8, Cedar Street, Garfield, N.J. |
| Date Written | 1935-01-08 |
| Postmark Date | 1935-01-09 |
| Postmark Location | Garfield, N.J. |
| Postmark Time | 7:30 AM |
| Relationship | School official to former teacher |
| Subject | Pension inquiry and discouraging teaching outlook |
| Tags | pension, teaching position, unemployment, Great Depression |
| File | LINK |
Board of Education
CITY OF GARFIELD, N.J.
OFFICE OF SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS
January 8, 1935
Mrs. Lorena McClure
3 South Street,
Lily Dale, New York
Dear Mrs. McClure:
Your letter addressed to our former Superintendent of Schools, has come to my desk.
As regards your pension I suggest that you write Mr. John A. Wood, 3d, Trenton, New Jersey.
The outlook for procuring a teaching position in Garfield is discouraging. Instead of hiring teachers we are dismissing a large number because of the economic conditions. We now have thirty-two unemployed teachers in Garfield. If a vacancy should occur, naturally we should want to offer a contract to some local girl.
Very sincerely yours,
(signed)
J. Earle Thomson
Superintendent of Schools
- After leaving Cleveland, Ohio, Lorena relocated to Lily Dale, New York, and was actively seeking employment in Garfield, New Jersey.
- According to Fannie Swift, the economic climate of the Great Depression made it especially difficult for women like Lorena to find teaching positions, as schools were prioritizing jobs for men. That Lorena was pursuing opportunities as far away as New Jersey suggests that local options were so limited she was willing to relocate across state lines—a striking reflection of the era’s gendered and economic constraints.
- Difficulty securing employment would have created instability. Lorena’s husband, William McClure, was not consistently employed in high-paying work, adding to the financial and emotional stress she faced despite her education.
- At the time this letter was written, Fannie would have been 17 years old and preparing to turn 18 later that year.
February 15th, 1935: Request for fabric sample and property check-in
[edit]
| Letter Metadata |
|---|
| Sender | A.L. Thompson |
| Recipient | Lorena McClure |
| Recipient’s Address | Lilly Dale, Chautauqua County, New York |
| Sender’s Address | Cassadaga, Florida (mailing address: P.O. Box 162, Lilly Dale, New York) |
| Date Written | 1935-02-15 |
| Postmark Date | (not specified) |
| Postmark Location | (not specified) |
| Postmark Time | (not specified) |
| Relationship | Friend or property owner to caretaker |
| Subject | Request for fabric sample and property check-in |
| Tags | property care, fabric sample, Florida weather, winter |
| File | LINK |
''A.L. Thompson''
<br>
''P.O. Box 162''
<br>
''Lilly Dale, New York''
<br><br>
Cassadaga, Florida.
<br>
February 15th., 1935.
<br><br>
Mrs. William F. McClure,
<br>
Lilly Dale, Chautauqua County, New York.
<br><br>
My Dear Rena-;
<br><br>
I am enclosing you a .03¢ stamp, and I wish you kindly as soon as possible after receipt of this letter you would take Will and a pair of scissors and go over to my house, and you will find in either the top or lower dresser drawer in my room (the North-East bed-room) a bundle of linen pongee rolled up, and I wish you would cut off a good sized sample from the bundle, (what will go in an envelope easily,) and mail same to me here. I am sure you will find it in one or the other of those drawers, if not don’t bother, as I haven’t an idea where to tell you to look.
<br><br>
Not hearing from you all Winter, I have taken it to mean that no news was good news, so I haven’t worried in the least, as I felt sure you would watch over my property the same as if it was yours, and that you would write me if necessary.
<br><br>
We are all pretty well down here. Having some nice weather at the present time, but we have had a tough Winter for Floridians the same as you people have in the North judging from what I have read in the papers, and the few reports that have come to me from around home. It will soon be over and forgotten now. Most of January was very cold with us here, but still not as cold as the snap we had in Early December when so much fruit over the State was destroyed, all truck gardens and most shrubs and flowers.
<br><br>
We are having a fairly successful season here, I guess as well as last, and holding our own, and that is something these times and about all we can expect.
<br><br>
Best wishes,
<br>
Sincerely,
<br>
''A.L. Thompson''
- The sender addresses Lorena as “Rena,” confirming her identity despite the formal “Mrs. William F. McClure” in the address line.
- Typed letter on personalized stationery; signed by hand.
- Postmark details are not visible on the image.
August 21st, 1935: Opinion on a man’s genuineness and trip updates
[edit]
| Letter Metadata |
|---|
| Sender | R. Davis |
| Recipient | Lorena McClure |
| Recipient’s Address | 3 South St, Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Sender’s Address | Hotel Wellington, Seventh Avenue, Fifty-fifth and Fifty-sixth Streets, New York, N.Y. |
| Date Written | 1935-08-21 |
| Postmark Date | 1935-08-21 |
| Postmark Location | New York, N.Y. |
| Postmark Time | 2 PM |
| Relationship | Friend or acquaintance |
| Subject | Opinion on a man’s genuineness and trip updates |
| Tags | opinion, travel, Harlem, theater, New York City |
| File | LINK |
''HOTEL WELLINGTON''
<br>
''UNDER SAME MANAGEMENT''
<br>
''SEVENTH AVENUE''
<br>
''FIFTY-FIFTH AND FIFTY-SIXTH STREETS''
<br>
''NEW YORK''
<br><br>
21 Aug 1935
<br><br>
Dear Mrs. McClure,
<br><br>
I was very pleased indeed to get your letter and to learn yourself and Dr. Mack were O.K. and I’d be very pleased to hear from you later re Seeler.
<br><br>
Well my private opinion is that if he was a fake he would have been found out long ago and I believe him to be perfectly genuine. However you are a clever and keen woman and I would like to hear from you later on this subject.
<br><br>
I have been having a very enjoyable time in N.Y. and have seen a good deal of it from Chinatown and the Bowery to Harlem night clubs and I have met no end of cousins and their families and picked up a number of theaters and shows.
<br><br>
I will be here for a time yet and will be in Boston on my return.
<br><br>
With my best wishes to yourself and Mr. McClure
<br><br>
Sincerely yours
<br>
R. Davis
- The signature is clear as “R. Davis,” though no further details about the sender are provided.
- The subject referred to as “Seeler” is unclear; may need further context from related letters.
- Letter written on hotel stationery and envelope matches hotel branding.
November 24th, 1935: Thanksgiving, quiet life, and updates
[edit]
| Letter Metadata |
|---|
| Sender | Lorena McClure |
| Recipient | Fannie McClure |
| Recipient’s Address | 344 Colvin Ave, Buffalo, N.Y. (c/o Mrs. Zimmer) |
| Sender’s Address | 3 South St., Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Date Written | 1935-11-24 |
| Postmark Date | 1935-11-27 |
| Postmark Location | Fredonia, N.Y. |
| Postmark Time | 1 PM |
| Relationship | Mother to daughter |
| Subject | Thanksgiving, quiet life, and updates |
| Tags | Thanksgiving, family news, quiet town |
| File | LINK |
''Sunday Evening''
<br>
''Lily Dale, N.Y.''
<br>
''Nov. 24, 1935.''
<br><br>
Dear Fan,
<br><br>
We were glad to get your letter because I had begun to worry. I am glad you like your work. Of course however it is dead here with all the young folks away. It is even monotonous to me at times. But then as long as my health is not exactly perfect it is better for me to be where it is quiet. I went to church today.
<br><br>
Dad had a nice dinner ready when I got home. Of course I am a little disappointed that you couldn’t be home for Thanksgiving but will try and make the best of it. I suppose Dot is thrilled with her job. I hope it is permanent. I hope Merle’s magazine venture is a success too.
<br><br>
Now be sure and write often. Your dad was so anxious to hear from you that he went to the office everyday and was so disappointed when he did not get a letter. He misses you more than he is willing to admit. You know you always had a pretty good staying in with your dad.
<br><br>
I will try and send your things to-morrow. I am glad the little girl is nice. Of course you always liked children and six years is such an interesting age. It was nice of Miller’s to offer you a position but I guess you will be more contented where you are especially as long as you like it real well.
<br><br>
Alice Maynard was asking about you today. There is no news here. Not much else everyone one of the later is crawling thru the park.
<br><br>
Dad and I are giving the place a general overhauling and you will see many changes when you return. I have taken over your room and have at last found a place where I can leave my personal belongings without having them disturbed.
<br><br>
Well I am getting sleepy. Come home as soon as you can. Write often. Dad and I both send loads of love.
<br><br>
Love, Mother.
<br><br>
We may come in Buffalo some Wednesday and meet you downtown.
- Written Nov. 24, 1935; postmarked Nov. 27.
- Lorena comments on the quiet of Lily Dale, family updates, and her feelings about Fannie missing Thanksgiving.
November 28th, 1935: Thanksgiving day updates and weather
[edit]
| Letter Metadata |
|---|
| Sender | Lorena McClure |
| Recipient | Fannie McClure |
| Recipient’s Address | 344 Colvin Ave, Buffalo, N.Y. (c/o Mrs. Zimmer) |
| Sender’s Address | Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Date Written | 1935-11-28 |
| Postmark Date | 1935-11-29 |
| Postmark Location | Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Postmark Time | 8 AM |
| Relationship | Mother to daughter |
| Subject | Thanksgiving day updates and weather |
| Tags | Thanksgiving, weather, family news |
| File | LINK |
''Thanksgiving''
<br>
''Nov. 28, 1935''
<br><br>
Dear Fan,
<br><br>
Horace Joy just brought the candy and the nuts. Many thanks for same. Dad and I will soon finish them. We are going to have a nice chicken dinner. We shall miss you very much. Dad is going to make one of his English plum puddings next week and we will save you some.
<br><br>
I carried the letter I sent you yesterday around in my pocketbook for three or four days thinking I had mailed it. So that the delay.
<br><br>
It is raining hard here all day and has been raining all night. Dark, gloomy and muddy. Just a nice day to stay close to the fire. Our day’s excitement will be a few games of cards and eating all we can hold.
<br><br>
Rennie is stretched out on the davenport, dead to the world and full of salmon. He has a fight every night trying with the cats of the neighborhood, trying to protect his eating on the front porch. Tommy Crampton comes over every morning and rolls in it.
<br><br>
We haven’t seen the suit lately. I am going to get some silver and dad and I are going to go over by Mead Lake sometime and see if we can not get a picture of him.
<br><br>
While I was at Fredonia yesterday, I saw Jean Webster and she looked as if the blizzard might happen at any minute.
<br><br>
I got your uniform back by Bill the milkman, the day after you left.
<br><br>
Wonder how Dot likes her job? Had your overcoat shirt laundered and then forgot to put it in.
<br><br>
Tell Mrs. Zimmer to bring the little girl down sometime. Tell her I am an old teacher and we will take good care of her. Little Townsends had the flu. No more news.
<br><br>
Write often. Love from Dad and your Mother.
- Written on Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 1935, postmarked the following morning.
- Cheerful tone despite gloomy weather; shares small domestic details and well wishes.
December 3rd, 1935: Package, advice, and Christmas plans
[edit]
| Letter Metadata |
|---|
| Sender | Lorena McClure |
| Recipient | Fannie McClure |
| Recipient’s Address | 344 Colvin Ave, Buffalo, N.Y. (c/o Mrs. Zimmer) |
| Sender’s Address | 3 South St., Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Date Written | 1935-12-03 |
| Postmark Date | 1935-12-03 |
| Postmark Location | Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Postmark Time | 1 PM |
| Relationship | Mother to daughter |
| Subject | Package, advice, and Christmas plans |
| Tags | Christmas, family advice, package, job prospects |
| File | LINK |
''3 South St.''
<br>
''Lily Dale, N.Y.''
<br>
''Dec. 3, 1935''
<br><br>
Dear Fan,
<br><br>
I did not go down to the post office until 11 o’clock this morning as this is the quickest I could get the stuff ready. I cannot find the bottoms of your pink silk pajamas and did not have time to go through everything. I did not send your white lace dress because I don’t intend you to ruin any more clothes in the dyeing process. That white lace formal is pretty as it is and will make a nice formal for next summer.
<br><br>
There was no fifty cents in the letter. Either you forgot to put it in or someone stole it out of letter. Never put silver in a letter unless you put it in between two pieces of cardboard.
<br><br>
How does it come that you go out Saturday night? This is not your regular day. One of you has some of the best blood in the country in your veins and you were not educated to be a maid.
<br><br>
Still I do not wish you to infringe upon Mrs. Zimmer’s good nature. You had to turn down two good positions near home to get this position and went to Buffalo against my wishes, so it is up to you to do yourself. Because you have been in the habit of dealing with a set of young folks whose haunts all earn good salary is no sign you can keep up with them. You have the best education of any of girls of the gang and plenty of ability and by a little hardier work you now can step ahead of all of them someday.
<br><br>
Candyland manager in Dunkirk phoned for you yesterday to report for work at once.
<br><br>
Saw Paul Darling in Dunkirk Saturday and he said he was coming into Buffalo this coming Saturday night, Dec. 7.
<br><br>
The next three months are hard for Dad and I financially so you will have to send eighty cents to pay for phone call to Buffalo, eleven cents postage for other package and I did throw what postage will be on this package.
<br><br>
I expect you to write at least once a week.
<br><br>
I have news but have not time to write it as I want to be sure package and letter get out on the afternoon mail.
<br><br>
Shall expect you home Christmas day if possible. Make your plans accordingly. We can postpone our Xmas dinner until six o’clock.
<br><br>
Will send size of over clothes and list of things needed and you can take your choice later.
<br><br>
Love from Dad & Mother.
- Letter contains a mixture of practical instructions, motherly advice, and moral encouragement.
- Some lines are particularly pointed about Fannie’s social life and career choices.
- “Candyland” likely refers to a confectionary or retail establishment offering her a job back closer to home.
December 10th, 1935: Christmas plans and reminders
[edit]
| Letter Metadata |
|---|
| Sender | Lorena McClure |
| Recipient | Fannie McClure |
| Recipient’s Address | 344 Colvin Ave, Buffalo, N.Y. (c/o Mrs. Zimmer) |
| Sender’s Address | 3 South St., Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Date Written | 1935-12-10 |
| Postmark Date | 1935-12-10 |
| Postmark Location | Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Postmark Time | 5 PM |
| Relationship | Mother to daughter |
| Subject | Christmas plans and reminders |
| Tags | Christmas, family news, reminders |
| File | LINK |
''3 South St.''
<br>
''Lily Dale, N.Y.''
<br>
''Dec. 10, 1935''
<br><br>
Dear Fan,
<br><br>
Just got your letter and am trying to get this ready to go on the 9:45 mail. Don’t know whether I will make it or not. I am enclosing the list. You can take your choice.
<br><br>
I did not forget the mittens. I bet one of the big pair and kept smaller pair for myself.
<br><br>
We will have Xmas tree as usual, turkey dinner etc. Dad and I are going to town this week and will get you a pair of mittens.
<br><br>
I am very busy finishing my Xmas gifts and renovating the house. I shall tell you anything about the house. Just wait until you see it.
<br><br>
I will write you another letter tomorrow and tell you the news.
<br><br>
Am glad you got your glasses. Get your teeth fixed after Christmas.
<br><br>
Please be a little more prompt in your letter writing.
<br><br>
Remember me to Al.
<br><br>
Love, Mother & Dad.
<br><br>
Hastily,
<br>
Mother.
<br><br>
Rec’d money O.K.
- Sender signs simply as “Mother,” confidently identified as Lorena McClure from context.
- Brief letter written hurriedly, focusing on Christmas preparation updates and reminders.
December 18th, 1935: Christmas preparations and neighborhood gossip
[edit]
| Letter Metadata |
|---|
| Sender | Lorena McClure |
| Recipient | Fannie McClure |
| Recipient’s Address | 344 Colvin Ave, Buffalo, N.Y. (c/o Mrs. H. Zimmer) |
| Sender’s Address | Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Date Written | 1935-12-18 |
| Postmark Date | 1935-12-18 |
| Postmark Location | Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Postmark Time | 5 PM |
| Relationship | Mother to daughter |
| Subject | Christmas preparations and neighborhood gossip |
| Tags | Christmas, family news, neighborhood gossip, legal troubles |
| File | LINK |
Lily Dale, N.Y.
<br>
Wed. Dec. 18, 1935
<br><br>
Dear Fan,
<br><br>
Sent you a box yesterday containing your half of linen paper. The mittens are part of your Xmas present from me. Thought you probably needed them. Dad is going over to Harry Nickerson’s this morning to get your Christmas tree and some wire for the plum pudding which he is also going to make today. The snow is so deep he has to walk to get the tree so you have some to stand in with your stand.
<br><br>
From the talk of turkey etc. he is going to have for Xmas dinner you and Al had better prepare to gorge yourself. Let me know what you have bought Dad so I won’t buy the same. Perhaps you had better get something for me to give him anyway, funds are limited.
<br><br>
I feel sorry for Alice Hapsin. It seems Jerry Hustle now Bobby Shipman’s lugging stuff out of the Abel house and calling the state trooper. He and Ethel were supposed to go to trial. In meantime the Arisman’s got up a petition which George and Alice signed to have Bobby’s sentence suspended. This made Jerry mad. It seems Alice Hapsin is a Canadian and has never been naturalized. Jerry was going to have her deported so she had to take Tommy and beat it to Canada.
<br><br>
Guess the year around if he had been honest. Well, we have no store here now. The Harris’s kept bread and milk and a few little things but now George has no stock and everyone down on him and he will have to give up store. The lift house next door unfinished on painting job to take your Trundle job away from him and now it is too cold to paint and she will probably lose all the work there now. Jerry is also going to report Cooley’s for being on the town.
<br><br>
So you see we do have a little excitement here. Mrs. Bennet, Mrs. Nugent, Mrs. Reynolds and Mrs. Dart are all boarding with Mrs. Tennant for the winter. Bus is making plenty of trouble quarreling and catnip on front porch.
<br><br>
The late Tommy Crampton comes over every day and rolls in it. I will have to save up rest of news until I see you. Expect your Christmas. Dad has just gone out with saw under his arm to get your tree.
<br><br>
Love from Dad and myself,
<br>
Mother.
- Sender signs as “Mother,” confidently identified as Lorena McClure from context.
- Envelope indicates Fannie is receiving mail care of Mrs. H. Zimmer.
- Letter is rich with local gossip and updates, some names and events may require additional context or correction from related documents.
January 12th, 1936: Thanks for contribution, family updates, and advice
[edit]
| Letter Metadata |
|---|
| Sender | Lorena McClure |
| Recipient | Fannie McClure |
| Recipient’s Address | 344 Colvin Ave, Buffalo, N.Y. (c/o Mrs. Zimmer) |
| Sender’s Address | 3 South St., Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Date Written | 1936-01-12 |
| Postmark Date | 1936-01-13 |
| Postmark Location | Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Postmark Time | 10 AM |
| Relationship | Mother to daughter |
| Subject | Thanks for contribution, family updates, and advice |
| Tags | family news, advice, fire, gratitude, winter |
| File | LINK |
''3 South St.''
<br>
''Lily Dale, N.Y.''
<br>
''Sun. Eve., 1-12-36''
<br><br>
Dear Fan,
<br><br>
We received your contribution. Many thanks for same. It will be used for a good purpose. I am glad you could have your teeth fixed. I will be glad when I can have my own attended to. I have been having a lot of trouble with my eyes. Had terrible headaches every time I tried to sew. I guess I ought to have my glasses changed but I haven’t the ten dollars to spare at present time so will have to wait until Dad gets to work in spring.
<br><br>
The house that burned up was Charlie McBride’s house that the Wrights lived in last summer. The Binghams that had the big family of children lived in it. The mother, who was paralyzed, was taken to hospital, one of the little children died before father got back from hospital and they lost everything they had. Ollie Corley was in there playing cards and while she was gone to ring the fire alarm, her hat, coat, galoshes etc. burned up. The other men were more or less burned. She was treated one heat week, and is not expected to rise. The eight-month-old baby Mr. and Mrs. Thomas are taking care of.
<br><br>
The house is a total loss. Vanetten furniture and Clyde Scott and daughter of suit left. Everyone has been giving them things. I gave them your old blue short sport coat and your brown and white tweed sport coat. The father gets sixty dollars a month pension and spends most of it on drink.
<br><br>
I am giving Ollie Cooley piano lessons and she is getting along pretty good.
<br><br>
We had a nice letter from Thud. Bill married a girl 14 years older than himself. They are quite well to do. He landed a 66-week all summer, taught at Annapolis and he and his wife are south for the winter. Ray Pickett that I knew was supposed to go on a trip to Alaska with was killed by a gangster.
<br><br>
She has been going with a fellow for two years and at present time is staying with her young man’s mother who is not well. Thelma is only 30 years old so she has a lot of happiness ahead of her yet. She wants to hear all the news. So I will have to write to her.
<br><br>
Had a letter from Aunt Kate. Aunt Anna is living with Aunt Ella in Ithaca.
<br><br>
Did Mabel write to you? She has not answered my letter as yet. I suppose she is getting ready for graduation.
<br><br>
This place is certainly quiet and now that I cannot read or sew much, I have a hard time keeping busy.
<br><br>
There doesn’t seem to be any news. We still have a lot of snow but it is not cold. Dad and I are surely going south for part of next winter.
<br><br>
Well it is time for Dad and I to eat our evening lunch and retire.
<br><br>
Did you ever look up Doris Koch? I never see any of the Cassadaga girls. I guess Doris is still at hospital. I met Pam last week and she was going to St. Petersburg for three months. Doctor’s orders!
<br><br>
Well must close.
<br><br>
Love —
<br>
Dad & Mother.
- Rich in local and extended family updates as well as expressions of thanks and advice.
- Date written is Jan 12, 1936; envelope postmarked the next morning.
January 17th, 1936: Thanks, fire victim’s story, and neighborhood updates
[edit]
| Letter Metadata |
|---|
| Sender | Lorena McClure |
| Recipient | Fannie McClure |
| Recipient’s Address | 344 Colvin Ave, Buffalo, N.Y. (c/o Mrs. H. Zimmer) |
| Sender’s Address | 3 South St., Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Date Written | 1936-01-17 |
| Postmark Date | 1936-01-17 |
| Postmark Location | Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Postmark Time | 10 AM |
| Relationship | Mother to daughter |
| Subject | Thanks, fire victim’s story, and neighborhood updates |
| Tags | family news, house fire, sewing, gossip |
| File | LINK |
''3 South St.''
<br>
''Lilly Dale, N.Y.''
<br>
''Jan. 17, 1936.''
<br><br>
Dear Fan,
<br><br>
Received your letter and contents. Many thanks for same.
<br><br>
That Mrs. Benjamin, who lived in the house that burned up, died. She left seven children, one baby only eight months old. I don’t know whether the Thomases still have the baby or not. The woman was only 35. It is too bad she had to go because she thought so much of her children. The father drinks and doesn’t amount to much. The woman was Wanita Rundatown’s sister. Mrs. Rundatown wanted to take baby up to Newton Hospital for observation as the mother had tubercular bone. I do not know whether the father will let her go or not.
<br><br>
We haven’t had any more snow. It is a nice bright sunshiny day but quite cold. I saw Dot and her mother a week ago Sunday and they were down here with the Ribleys. She showed me her new coat. I don’t think it was as pretty as yours.
<br><br>
Marg. Joy has made herself such a pretty dress on the knit it loom she has. The skirt is navy blue and the pullover old rose. I am going to send and get one and make myself a dress. She says it only takes about $2.75 worth of yarn.
<br><br>
There does not seem to be any news. There are so few people here there is no one to gossip about.
<br><br>
It is easy to drive in here now. Will look for you Wednesday, unless it storms.
<br><br>
Love from Dad and
<br>
Mother.
- Date corrected to January 17, 1936, as seen on both envelope and letterhead.
- Follows up on the fire discussed in other early-1936 letters.
January 28th, 1936: Blizzard conditions and family updates
[edit]
| Letter Metadata |
|---|
| Sender | Lorena McClure |
| Recipient | Fannie McClure |
| Recipient’s Address | 344 Colvin Ave, Buffalo, N.Y. |
| Sender’s Address | 3 South St., Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Date Written | 1936-01-28 |
| Postmark Date | 1936-01-29 |
| Postmark Location | Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Postmark Time | 10 AM |
| Relationship | Mother to daughter |
| Subject | Blizzard conditions and family updates |
| Tags | blizzard, weather, lottery tickets, family news |
| File | LINK |
''3 South St.''
<br>
''Lilly Dale, N.Y.''
<br>
''Jan. 28, 1936.''
<br><br>
Dear Fan,
<br><br>
We are just buried in snow here. We have been having a regular blizzard here for about a week. I guess from what I see by the paper you have been having a blizzard in Buffalo too. We have the most snow I have ever seen here. It keeps Dad busy keeping a path shoveled.
<br><br>
I have not been out of the house in over a week. For two days even the milk man could not get here. I guess you had better send us a new peachblow desk. We have about worn ours out. There was nothing else we could do except play cards.
<br><br>
It is a good thing you did not come last Wednesday. It has been snowing all day today so you probably will not come tomorrow.
<br><br>
I guess that was the reason the school bus did not run. One day the train due here at 10:15 did not get here until 2 P.M. and did not come back from Dunkirk until 6 o’clock. There is no news except the weather. Everyone has been snowed in and nothing has happened. No one has even driven by the house. I guess everyone was afraid of getting stuck. They are hard to shovel the snow blow out when it comes in today.
<br><br>
I suppose Mabel has graduated by now. Did she send you an invitation? All the lads here were taking regents exams last week.
<br><br>
I wish my teeth were fixed. They certainly need it.
<br><br>
Dad has sold a whole book of tickets for Irish Sweepstakes. Everyone around here bought tickets. Dad has a great time telling what he’s going to do with his money if he wins.
<br><br>
Love from Dad and
<br>
Mother.
- Date written is Jan 28, 1936, matching letter header.
- Envelope postmarked the following day, Jan 29, 1936.
- Tone is light despite the difficult weather, with some humor about the sweepstakes.
February 11th, 1936: Blizzard, illness, and family updates
[edit]
| Letter Metadata |
|---|
| Sender | Lorena McClure |
| Recipient | Fannie McClure |
| Recipient’s Address | 344 Colvin Ave, Buffalo, N.Y. (c/o Mrs. H. Zimmer) |
| Sender’s Address | 3 South St., Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Date Written | 1936-02-11 |
| Postmark Date | 1936-02-11 |
| Postmark Location | Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Postmark Time | 5 PM |
| Relationship | Mother to daughter |
| Subject | Blizzard, illness, and family updates |
| Tags | blizzard, illness, family news, sewing |
| File | LINK |
''3 South St.''
<br>
''Lilly Dale, N.Y.''
<br>
''Tues. Feb. 11, 1936''
<br><br>
Dear Fan,
<br><br>
We have had one continuous blizzard here for about three weeks. The snow is blowing so now that you can hardly see across the road. I guess you could drive in here without getting stuck. The main roads are all right though and you could leave your car at post office if you did not want to take a chance and drive in.
<br><br>
I have been sick for a week. Just able to crawl around. My old trouble (fl. dig.). I still feel pretty weak in the knees. Daddy has had to do all the work. It keeps him pretty busy lugging in coal and shoveling snow. He had to go to Cassadaga yesterday to get more groceries. He was pretty near frozen when he got home. I haven’t been out of the house only a few times since Xmas. No one goes out unless they have to.
<br><br>
I got a card from Clara yesterday stating that Mae Du Rand was very ill with pneumonia. She thought she might pull thru.
<br><br>
It is too bad about Al and Mr. Swift losing their jobs. I feel sorry for Mrs. Swift. I know what it means to have no one working. Perhaps they will be able to land something else. I hope so anyway.
<br><br>
Daddy said that it would be a good thing if one of the Swifts would come down and shovel snow off this porch roof, it is deep it is liable to break down. Daddy has had to shovel snow from roofs of all of his houses, some of them twice already and at the rate it is snowing will have to do it again. He still has several places to do.
<br><br>
Thanks for money and stamps. I have got a wonderful new line of Fashion Frocks spring styles. You will have to look them over when you come down. If I hadn’t slept so late, I would have got this letter off this morning.
<br><br>
Rennie is O.K. It keeps him busy watching birds on front porch. Don’t forget to get me a new punch dish if you get them in 5 and 10 store for 25 cents.
<br><br>
Love from Dad and
<br>
Mother.
- Written and postmarked on the same day, Feb. 11, 1936.
- Lorena notes her illness, ongoing severe weather, and concern over others’ hardships.
February 25th, 1936: Thanks, weather, and family losses
[edit]
| Letter Metadata |
|---|
| Sender | Lorena McClure |
| Recipient | Fannie McClure |
| Recipient’s Address | 344 Colvin Ave, Buffalo, N.Y. |
| Sender’s Address | 3 South St., Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Date Written | 1936-02-25 |
| Postmark Date | 1936-02-25 |
| Postmark Location | Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Postmark Time | (not clearly visible) |
| Relationship | Mother to daughter |
| Subject | Thanks, weather, and family losses |
| Tags | family news, illness, death, gratitude |
| File | LINK |
''3 South St.''
<br>
''Lily Dale, N.Y.''
<br>
''Feb. 25, 1936.''
<br><br>
Dear Fan,
<br><br>
The “Pinochle” cards got here yesterday afternoon. Many thanks! Dad and I will certainly make good use of them.
<br><br>
It has been quite warm here for the past two days. It has thawed quite a bit. Quite a lot of the snow has disappeared. It can’t disappear any too soon for me.
<br><br>
I am sorry you had such a hard time trying to get down here. I hope you have better luck next time. I hope you can come soon. It seems a long time since you were home.
<br><br>
I received a card from Clara that Mae Durand died Feb. 13. Her funeral was last Saturday. It was quite a shock to me. I did not know that she was that sick. I must write and find out the particulars. You can tell Lorain. I think she knew Mae.
<br><br>
Mrs. Burnett is very ill and not expected to live. She has heart trouble.
<br><br>
Has Al succeeded in getting work?
<br><br>
Did you say that you had seen Doris Koch? I saw in the paper that Ruth Silbert’s grandfather had died.
<br><br>
Did John Silbert get there school? It was either he or Paul Darling, but to Buffalo lately?
<br><br>
I don’t think you answer my letters very promptly. It has been two or three weeks since I heard from you. These last two times I answered within a week. Try and write every week and I will do the same.
<br><br>
Rennie wants to be remembered to you. I pet on him four or five times every day. Doesn’t seem to be any more news.
<br><br>
Love from Dad and
<br>
Mother.
- Letter acknowledges receipt of playing cards from Fannie.
- Contains news of several illnesses and deaths in the extended circle.
- Envelope is postmarked Feb. 25, 1936, matching letterhead.
March 2nd, 1936: Missing money order and family updates
[edit]
| Letter Metadata |
|---|
| Sender | Lorena McClure |
| Recipient | Fannie McClure |
| Recipient’s Address | 344 Colvin Ave, Buffalo, N.Y. |
| Sender’s Address | 3 South St., Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Date Written | 1936-03-02 |
| Postmark Date | 1936-03-02 |
| Postmark Location | Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Postmark Time | 5 PM |
| Relationship | Mother to daughter |
| Subject | Missing money order and family updates |
| Tags | missing money, family news, church, marriage |
| File | LINK |
''3 South St.''
<br>
''Lily Dale, N.Y.''
<br>
''Mar. 2, 1936''
<br><br>
Dear Fan,
<br><br>
Your letter came this morning, so you see I am answering promptly.
<br><br>
We received no letter with two fifty in it. The only money we received last month from you was a dollar the early part of the month. Are you sure you mailed it? Take a good look around your room. Mrs. Joy is going to send to Buffalo to have it traced. You had better send money orders after this. It will be too bad if it is lost.
<br><br>
You had better call Dot Hershey up and tell her that Bob Mathews is married. Beverly that stays with Mrs. Ferrer has gone into the army for three years. I imagine that Dot would get quite a thrill about Bob being married.
<br><br>
It was a lovely warm day here yesterday. I went to church in the morning and evening. I tried to get Dad to go but I did not succeed. He came to meet me in the evening. It is snowing here to-day but it is not very cold.
<br><br>
Every Wednesday and Sunday I look for you. I hope you can come soon.
<br><br>
Teresa Joy said for you to go to post office in Buffalo and get a form to fill out telling when and where you mailed the letter that we did not get.
<br><br>
When you come you can bring some “Ritz Crackers” if it is not too much trouble.
<br><br>
It is nice that Margurite lives so near you.
<br><br>
Write back at once and tell me if you located the letter.
<br><br>
Love from Dad and
<br>
Mother.
<br><br>
xxxxxxxx
- Two-page scan was slightly out of logical order; reordered here for continuity.
- The sender is identified as “L. McClure” on the envelope, which is confidently expanded as Lorena McClure based on context.
March 13th, 1936: Money order, weather, and neighborhood updates
[edit]
| Letter Metadata |
|---|
| Sender | Lorena McClure |
| Recipient | Fannie McClure |
| Recipient’s Address | 344 Colvin Ave, Buffalo, N.Y. (c/o Mrs. H. Zimmer) |
| Sender’s Address | 3 South St., Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Date Written | 1936-03-13 |
| Postmark Date | 1936-03-13 |
| Postmark Location | Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Postmark Time | (not clearly visible) |
| Relationship | Mother to daughter |
| Subject | Money order, weather, and neighborhood updates |
| Tags | money order, weather, neighbors, family news |
| File | LINK |
''3 South St.''
<br>
''Lily Dale, N.Y.''
<br>
''Mar. 13, 1936.''
<br><br>
Dear Fan,
<br><br>
We received the money order all right. That is the only safe way to send it. Many thanks for same. I hope they will find out what happened to the other letter you sent and that you get your money back.
<br><br>
We are having another blizzard here to-day but I guess it is not going to be much snow. We having been having real nice weather and a good deal of the snow had melted away. The robins are back and I thought we were all set for an early spring but it does not look much like it today.
<br><br>
Mrs. Williams is back and we are friends again. She and Dad and I have been playing cards every night until late. I am glad she is back because it gives me something to do evenings. We have just finished baking bread and cookies. Wish you were here to get a piece of hot bread.
<br><br>
I am glad Al landed a job. Even if it isn’t much pay it is better than nothing.
<br><br>
When I was walking to Cassadaga the other day, I met John Silbert. He was on his way to Newton Hospital to see if he could get a job. He had been over to see his aunt Jean Webster. She has a 12 lb. girl born the last of February. He said Ruth had signed a new contract for next year with a fifty dollar raise. She is lucky.
<br><br>
Mrs. Burnett that lived near us is dead and buried. I’ll bet Doris Koch said the rest of you had a good time. It is nice you are near Marguerite Miller. What does she do? Is Doris Koch attending Teachers’ College?
<br><br>
Well it is time to get this to post office so must close. Rennie says for you to come home and soon as you can. Dad said I’ll certainly be glad to see you again. It seems like you had been away a very long time. Loads of love.
<br><br>
Love from Dad and
<br>
Mother.
<br><br>
xxxx
- Envelope postmarked March 13, 1936, matching letter date.
- Lorena mentions family and neighborhood news, including births, deaths, jobs, and weather.
March 24th, 1936: More snow, sweepstakes, and travel advice
[edit]
| Letter Metadata |
|---|
| Sender | Lorena McClure |
| Recipient | Fannie McClure |
| Recipient’s Address | 344 Colvin Ave, Buffalo, N.Y. (c/o Mrs. H. Zimmer) |
| Sender’s Address | 3 South St., Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Date Written | 1936-03-24 |
| Postmark Date | 1936-03-24 |
| Postmark Location | Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Postmark Time | 10 AM |
| Relationship | Mother to daughter |
| Subject | More snow, sweepstakes, and travel advice |
| Tags | snow, sweepstakes, travel, family |
| File | LINK |
''3 South St.''
<br>
''Lily Dale, N.Y.''
<br>
''Mar. 24, 1936.''
<br><br>
Dear Fan,
<br><br>
I have been so disgusted over so much snow that I have not felt like writing. We have to go through a tunnel almost over our heads to get out of our house. It said over the radio that there was another 8-foot snow storm on the way from the west. Here it is officially spring and all this snow. I saw our poor lone robin yesterday. I guess he is disgusted because he came so early.
<br><br>
Dad has been busy all the week shoveling snow from roofs. That is all he has been doing all the week.
<br><br>
We have a ticket on the Irish sweepstake. The tickets are drawn today. Dad and I have had a great time planning what we are going to do with our money if we win. Do you remember how Dad and you used to spend an evening spending a million dollars?
<br><br>
You could come down on the bus anytime. It is always pretty good walking between here and Cassadaga. Be sure and let us know when you are coming and Dad and I will meet you.
<br><br>
You might get lost walking over here alone. I haven’t any bus schedule but I think the last bus leaves Fredonia about 10 minutes to 7. When I go over to Cassadaga I will try and get you a schedule.
<br><br>
I received the money all right. Thanks. I would not send any more though without an order.
<br><br>
There doesn’t seem to be any news. It is nearly time for mail to close so I must stop. I will write more next time.
<br><br>
Rennie, Dad and I all send love.
<br><br>
Mother.
<br>
xxxxxxxxxx
- Letter and envelope both dated March 24, 1936.
- Cheerful tone despite ongoing snow and frustration; includes humorous note about spending imaginary winnings.
March 29th, 1936: Easter plans and warm weather
[edit]
| Letter Metadata |
|---|
| Sender | Lorena McClure |
| Recipient | Fannie McClure |
| Recipient’s Address | 344 Colvin Ave, Buffalo, N.Y. |
| Sender’s Address | 3 South St., Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Date Written | 1936-03-29 |
| Postmark Date | 1936-03-30 |
| Postmark Location | Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Postmark Time | 10 AM |
| Relationship | Mother to daughter |
| Subject | Easter plans and warm weather |
| Tags | Easter, family plans, spring, weather |
| File | LINK |
''3 South St.''
<br>
''Lily Dale, N.Y.''
<br>
''Mar. 29, 1936.''
<br><br>
Dear Fan,
<br><br>
Your letter received containing money order. Thanks! That is the safest way to send it.
<br><br>
Two weeks from today is Easter. We shall look for you on that day. I guess by the way the snow is melting it will all be gone by then. I hope so anyway. I don’t feel as if I ever wanted to see any snow again.
<br><br>
Dad was insulted because you asked to come home for the summer. Of course you can come. He says that you are always welcome. I think you have earned a vacation too. You certainly didn’t have much rest out the last two summers. So we shall expect you.
<br><br>
I haven’t got a bus schedule yet but I will try and get one the first of the week.
<br><br>
Mr. Cawcutt sent us a whole crate of lovely great big oranges. They were ripened on the trees and are as sweet as sugar. We are going to try and keep some for you.
<br><br>
Dad is planning on Easter dinner. Is there anything special that you would like?
<br><br>
It is a lovely warm day here today. I guess I will walk over to Susie Nickerson’s. I will be glad to get out again after being shut in all winter.
<br><br>
Did Johnny Silbert get to Buffalo for Al’s birthday? It does not seem possible that Wednesday is the first of April. It will be the good old summer time before long.
<br><br>
Swift’s porch is all right now. The snow is melted.
<br><br>
Dad and I both send love.
<br><br>
Mother.
<br>
xxxxxxxxxx
- Written March 29, 1936; mailed the following day, March 30, 1936.
- Light, cheerful tone anticipating Easter and warmer weather.
April 6th, 1936: Summer plans and visit arrangements
[edit]
| Letter Metadata |
|---|
| Sender | Lorena McClure |
| Recipient | Fannie McClure |
| Recipient’s Address | 344 Colvin Ave, Buffalo, N.Y. (c/o Mrs. H. Zimmer) |
| Sender’s Address | 3 South St., Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Date Written | 1936-04-06 |
| Postmark Date | 1936-04-08 |
| Postmark Location | Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Postmark Time | 10 AM |
| Relationship | Mother to daughter |
| Subject | Summer plans and visit arrangements |
| Tags | summer plans, family updates, visit arrangements |
| File | LINK |
''3 South St.''
<br>
''Lily Dale, N.Y.''
<br>
''Wed. Apr. 6, 1936''
<br><br>
Dear Fan,
<br><br>
I will only write a note as you will be home so soon. Elaine is coming down Saturday night after store closes. You could come down with her if you wanted to. Elaine said that she would call you up. Maybe you will see her today. She had her new coat on. It was real pretty.
<br><br>
Well, I guess your change in summer plans are all right. I would have liked to have had you home for summer but it will only be about three weeks longer. You will have a little more money earned and as you say that is the best time in season to be here from last of July to last of August. It will also be nice if you can come home oftener between now and then.
<br><br>
Burnett Smith is putting in electricity next door and Dad said he was going to ask him how much it would cost to put electricity in our house. Wouldn’t that be nice? Then I could use my radio.
<br><br>
Lorine S. is staying down this week. She has been over once to see me.
<br><br>
Yes, I am glad Dad has plenty of work. He has his insurance paid and may be now we can get our car license. If we do I will drive into Buffalo some Saturday and you can come back with me.
<br><br>
Well, I have to go up to Cawcutt’s to work today, so I will have to stop. Buster hurt one of his paws and is hopping around on three feet.
<br><br>
I shall look for you Sunday. Come Saturday night, if you can.
<br><br>
Love from Dad and Mother.
<br>
xxxxxxxxxx
- Corrected date written: April 6, 1936 (per letterhead).
- Envelope is postmarked April 8, 1936.
April 6th, 1936: Bus schedule and family updates
[edit]
| Letter Metadata |
|---|
| Sender | Lorena McClure |
| Recipient | Fannie McClure |
| Recipient’s Address | 344 Colvin Ave, Buffalo, N.Y. (c/o Mrs. H. Zimmer) |
| Sender’s Address | 3 South St., Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Date Written | 1936-04-06 |
| Postmark Date | 1936-04-06 |
| Postmark Location | Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Postmark Time | 5 PM |
| Relationship | Mother to daughter |
| Subject | Bus schedule and family updates |
| Tags | bus schedule, family, funeral, friends |
| File | LINK |
''3 South St.''
<br>
''Lily Dale, N.Y.''
<br>
''Monday, Apr. 6, 1936''
<br><br>
Dear Fan,
<br><br>
I finally got the bus schedule. There is no bus between 3:40 and 7:55 (5 minutes to 8). The five minutes to 8 is the last bus. So you can make your plans according.
<br><br>
Your money order was gratefully received. We had got down so ready cash so we had to use it for eats. Dad has money coming in but he won’t get it until the people start coming back.
<br><br>
I am going to the funeral of Mr. Carlson’s little boy. He is the teacher. It is in the church. I will have to hurry so as not to be late. I will save the news until I see you on Saturday. It is raining here today. We still have some snow left. I was in Fredonia Saturday and there isn’t a bit of snow there. I went to see the picture of “Dionne Quintuplets.” They certainly are cute. Did you see it? I saw John Silbert on the street but he didn’t see me. They have a different waitress in Koch’s than I ever saw there before.
<br><br>
We had another nice letter from Thelma. She asked all about you. Is Dot Hershey working? I had quite a long letter from Ella Royal Williams and she does not intend to come back until the last of May. She said that Merl told her to stay long as she could. Merl sure is foxy.
<br><br>
Well, I will have to stop and get dressed. Will look for you sometime Saturday evening. Get prepared to have your ears talked off. Remember me to Steigmier.
<br><br>
Love from Dad and Mother.
<br>
xxxxxxxxxx
- Written and postmarked April 6, 1936.
- Lorena provides bus schedule information and a variety of family and community news.
April 17th, 1936: Safe arrival, missing picture, and weekend plans
[edit]
| Letter Metadata |
|---|
| Sender | Lorena McClure |
| Recipient | Fannie McClure |
| Recipient’s Address | 344 Colvin Ave, Buffalo, N.Y. (c/o Mrs. H. Zimmer) |
| Sender’s Address | 3 South St., Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Date Written | 1936-04-17 |
| Postmark Date | 1936-04-17 |
| Postmark Location | Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Postmark Time | 5 PM |
| Relationship | Mother to daughter |
| Subject | Safe arrival, missing picture, and weekend plans |
| Tags | family news, missing item, visit plans |
| File | LINK |
''3 South St.''
<br>
''Lily Dale, N.Y.''
<br>
''Friday P.M.''
<br>
''Apr. 17, 1936.''
<br><br>
Dear Fan,
<br><br>
I was glad to get your letter and learn that you had arrived home safely. Al was so sleepy that I was afraid that he would go to sleep on the way. Dad took your letter over to Elaine and they were all packed up just ready to leave. They left so sudden that they didn’t even come over to bid me goodbye. She said they were coming back on Sunday. I should think you could come with them. Even if Al does not want to come you could come just the same.
<br><br>
You tell Al that Dad and I are pretty angry because he took your picture off the shelf. It is the only one we had and we both miss it. You had better get it from him and send it back at once. He will never make it right with Dad, if he doesn’t send it back. He had a lot of nerve to take it without saying something about it.
<br><br>
Elaine was going to take your goods like your green skirt back with her but she left in such a hurry she forgot about it. You can get it Sunday if you come down.
<br><br>
There were big tracks in the snow on the porch by our big window this morning. Perhaps Paul was down and came here last evening while we were over to Mrs. Williams’ playing cards. I don’t know who else could have been prowling around.
<br><br>
Well I have got to bake a cake. Dad and I both send love.
<br><br>
Mother
<br>
xxxxxxxxxx
- Written and postmarked April 17, 1936.
- Lorena expresses annoyance about the missing picture and hopes to see Fannie Sunday.
April 24th, 1936: Picture found, weather, and Mother’s Day plans
[edit]
| Letter Metadata |
|---|
| Sender | Lorena McClure |
| Recipient | Fannie McClure |
| Recipient’s Address | 344 Colvin Ave, Buffalo, N.Y. (c/o Mrs. H. Zimmer) |
| Sender’s Address | 3 South St., Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Date Written | 1936-04-24 |
| Postmark Date | 1936-04-24 |
| Postmark Location | Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Postmark Time | 10 AM |
| Relationship | Mother to daughter |
| Subject | Picture found, weather, and Mother’s Day plans |
| Tags | family news, weather, Mother’s Day |
| File | LINK |
''3 South St.''
<br>
''Lily Dale, N.Y.''
<br>
''Apr. 24, 1936.''
<br><br>
Dear Fan,
<br><br>
Your letter received and if I don’t hurry up, I won’t get it answered this week. Well I found your picture in back of one of the pillows on the davenport so that is that. I am glad you sent the snapshot because I always liked it. I suppose you had a good time Wednesday night. It would be strange if Dot and Skip got to going together again. Stranger things than that have happened. I will have your things ready for Mrs. Swift if she comes down Sunday.
<br><br>
It is just lovely weather here now. At this rate it won’t be long before the violets and trilliums will be out. I walked through the woods yesterday and it was lovely. I was wishing that you were along. If it is going to be nice like this I will soon start house cleaning. Dad got rid of a lot of junk the other day. He sold those two old bath tubs and that white iron bed. We are going to get some more ready before rag man comes next time.
<br><br>
I should think we could get some goods and make a few summer dresses after you come home. Elaine will probably bring her machine down here.
<br><br>
I wish you could come down Mother’s Day, the 10th of May. Maybe you can arrange it. You will enjoy it here now with the weather so nice. I must hurry and get this to the office! No news.
<br><br>
Love from Dad and Mother.
<br>
xxxxxxxxxx
- Written and postmarked April 24, 1936.
- Lorena finds Fannie’s missing picture, comments on the weather and household chores, and invites her home for Mother’s Day.
April 30th, 1936: Elaine’s visit, yard work, and Mother’s Day plans
[edit]
| Letter Metadata |
|---|
| Sender | Lorena McClure |
| Recipient | Fannie McClure |
| Recipient’s Address | 344 Colvin Ave, Buffalo, N.Y. (c/o Mrs. H. Zimmer) |
| Sender’s Address | 3 South St., Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Date Written | 1936-04-30 |
| Postmark Date | 1936-04-30 |
| Postmark Location | Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Postmark Time | 5 PM |
| Relationship | Mother to daughter |
| Subject | Elaine’s visit, yard work, and Mother’s Day & birthday plans |
| Tags | family news, visitors, yardwork, holiday plans |
| File | LINK |
''3 South St.''
<br>
''Lily Dale, N.Y.''
<br>
''Apr. 30, 1936.''
<br><br>
Dear Fan,
<br><br>
Elaine, Jr., and Loraine were down here for the weekend. They did not come to see me. Dad saw them in the store. I would not have known they were here if Dad had not seen them.
<br><br>
I did not find the goods like your green skirt nor the tan chiffon. I will keep on looking until I find them.
<br><br>
I have raked up the yard and began on the back room today. Mr. Refuse who bought the Stevens’ house next door is here. Dad has been working all the week for him and has a lot more work for him. He also has to paint Mrs. Reynolds’ house, screen in Mrs. Bates’ front porch, and several other jobs. I guess he will be busy until camp opens.
<br><br>
I went to Music Festival in Fredonia Tuesday and am going again tomorrow. I also saw moving picture “Rose Marie.” It was lovely. Nice music in it.
<br><br>
It is a good idea to send your money to bank in Fredonia for then you won’t spend it. Be sure and get a money order.
<br><br>
I thought Mrs. Williams was not coming back till the last of May.
<br><br>
Cawcrofts will be back the last of next week. Then we can get their car now and then. Mrs. Reynolds offered to pay half of our car license if Dad would take her in the car wherever she wanted to go any place. I don’t know whether we will get license before July 1.
<br><br>
I hope you can come down for Mother’s Day, May 10 and also your birthday week. We will have to have some of gang and have a party.
<br><br>
Love from Dad and Mother.
<br>
xxxxxxxxxx
- Written and postmarked April 30, 1936.
- Lorena notes visitors who didn’t call on her, household chores, Dad’s work, and upcoming plans for Mother’s Day and Fannie’s birthday.
May 15th, 1936: Margie’s marriage and family news
[edit]
| Letter Metadata |
|---|
| Sender | Lorena McClure (signed as “Mother”) |
| Recipient | Miss Fannie McClure |
| Recipient’s Address | 347 [illegible, possibly Main or Lin] Ave., Buffalo, N.Y., c/o Mrs. H. Zimmer |
| Sender’s Address | 3 South St., Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Date Written | 1936-05-15 |
| Postmark Date | 1936-05-15 |
| Postmark Location | Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Postmark Time | 5 PM |
| Relationship | Mother to daughter |
| Subject | Margie’s marriage and family news |
| Tags | family news, marriage, finances, household, travel plans |
| File | LINK |
''3 South St.''
<br>
''Lily Dale, N.Y.''
<br>
''May 15, 1936.''
<br><br>
Dear Fan,
<br><br>
Your letter received this morning and you see how prompt I am in answering it.
<br><br>
I have a little news. Margie was married Tuesday morning. Her mother feels terrible about it because she didn’t know about it until yesterday afternoon. This fellow is twenty years older than she and has no steady work. He is a nice fellow though. They start housekeeping today. His family father owns a two family(?) house and live downstairs and is going to let them live upstairs without paying rent. His brother and sister are going to furnish the place for them. They have $300 saved up. After July 4 he goes on road for a Seed Co. at $40 a week for a while. Margie is going with him. This will be their honeymoon. Dad saw them in the A&P this morning. I am enclosing her address. You can write to her. When you come up, you can take me over to call.
<br><br>
I will attend to your clothes and get moth balls. This is all writing paper I have so I will have to close. Dad and I both send love.
<br><br>
Hastily,
<br>
Mother.
<br><br>
(over)
<br><br>
I found your little brown striped dress and laundered it. If Elaine comes down this weekend, I will send it back.
<br><br>
I hope you can come down a Sunday between now and Decoration Day. Daddy has three houses to paint in Jamestown for Barrett who runs the saloon in Cassadaga.
<br><br>
Mr. Gleason wants him to take his stand down by where he rents boats. He says he can make three or four dollars a day selling bait and fishing tackle. That’s what a man made there last summer selling bait.
<br><br>
Well I am signing off again.
<br>
Mother — Write soon.
- The envelope is addressed to “Miss Fannie McClure” in care of “Mrs. H. Zimmer.” Street name partially obscured by ink blot; possibly “Main” or “Lin.”
- Pages appear in correct order in the scans provided.
- Words like “family(?)” and “Lin/Main” noted as uncertain due to handwriting or ink blot.
May 25th, 1936: Elaine’s visit and family updates
[edit]
| Letter Metadata |
|---|
| Sender | Lorena McClure (signed as “Mother”) |
| Recipient | Miss Fannie McClure |
| Recipient’s Address | 344 Colvin Ave., Buffalo, N.Y. |
| Sender’s Address | 3 South St., Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Date Written | 1936-05-25 |
| Postmark Date | 1936-05-25 |
| Postmark Location | Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Postmark Time | 5 PM |
| Relationship | Mother to daughter |
| Subject | Elaine’s visit and family updates |
| Tags | family news, canning, gardening, visitors, illness, work |
| File | LINK |
''3 South St.''
<br>
''Lily Dale, N.Y.''
<br>
''May 25, 1936.''
<br><br>
Dear Fan,
<br><br>
Received your letter this morning and am answering more promptly than you did.
<br><br>
Elaine is staying down here this week. She was over to see me this morning and said she was going home and write to you.
<br><br>
She is going to make herself a new dress for Decoration Day. Paul Darling was down yesterday but I did not see him to speak to him. I guess his mother is coming down this week.
<br><br>
Your regents “Home Economic” Diploma came from Albany last week. Did you have to pass English to get it.
<br><br>
If you cannot bring any fruit jars when you come, can you store some over to Al’s until you can bring them? I have canned 17 cans of pineapple and expect to can 28 more cans tomorrow.
<br><br>
Dad has an acre of land over to Van Buskirk’s and we are going to raise all our own vegetables.
<br><br>
Too bad you cannot come down Friday night. Mr. Steigner and Junior are coming Friday night.
<br><br>
Did you get some new shoes?
<br><br>
I am sorry you get homesick. <i>Maybe it is because you had to work so hard and you were overtired.</i>
<br><br>
It is only a few days now until you will be home. I will have a birthday cake.
<br><br>
I did not see Sid yesterday only from a distance. I don’t know why he did not come over and say “Hello.”
<br><br>
Well I must get this to the office so you will get it tomorrow. Write again this week if you have time.
<br><br>
Love from Dad and
<br>
Mother. x x x x
- The envelope indicates Fannie’s address as “344 Colvin Ave.,” clearer than in prior letter.
- Text appears to be in correct order.
- Minor spelling and punctuation inconsistencies were preserved as written.
June 10th, 1936: House cleaning, garden, and weekend plans
[edit]
| Letter Metadata |
|---|
| Sender | Lorena McClure (signed as “Mother”) |
| Recipient | Miss Fannie McClure |
| Recipient’s Address | 344 Colvin Ave., Buffalo, N.Y. |
| Sender’s Address | 3 South St., Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Date Written | 1936-06-10 |
| Postmark Date | 1936-06-11 |
| Postmark Location | Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Postmark Time | 10 AM |
| Relationship | Mother to daughter |
| Subject | House cleaning, garden, and weekend plans |
| Tags | housework, gardening, visitors, errands, weekend plans |
| File | LINK |
''3 South St.''
<br>
''Lily Dale, N.Y.''
<br>
''June 10, 1936.''
<br><br>
Dear Fan,
<br><br>
You really owe me another letter but I guess you are waiting for me to answer your last letter so here goes.
<br><br>
I am right in the middle of house cleaning. I have painted the wood work in the front room the first coat and it looks fine. Daddy says I did a very good job! He will put on second coat and then we will be ready to paper. I am also going to put the prime coat on the floor. We are going to get the paper for dining room Saturday.
<br><br>
We have a hundred tomato plants and a hundred pepper plants to put in. We have all our seeds too. We will certainly have some garden when we get through. We expect to have 25 bushels of potatoes. We will probably have some stuff to sell.
<br><br>
Ella Rogol Williams is here but I have not seen her yet.
<br><br>
Al’s father found the saw in back of door in their own house. So Al got bawled out for nothing.
<br><br>
Are you coming down this week end?
<br><br>
I saw Libby and she said that she would tell you she saw me. She was all alone. I guess Elaine must be in Buffalo this week as I have not seen anything of her. She usually comes over two or three times a week.
<br><br>
There doesn’t seem to be any news.
<br><br>
Dad and I drove to Van Buren Sunday and parked down by lake. We also went to show Saturday night.
<br><br>
Well I must get to work. Answer this immediately. Come down Sunday if you can. Dad and I both send love.
<br><br>
Mother.
<br>
x x x x x
- Envelope and letter date match (June 10 written, postmarked June 11).
- All three pages appear to be in correct logical order.
- Minor spelling and grammar preserved as written.
June 19th, 1936: Money order, storm damage, and garden update
[edit]
| Letter Metadata |
|---|
| Sender | Lorena McClure (signed as “Mother”) |
| Recipient | Miss Fannie McClure |
| Recipient’s Address | 344 Colvin Ave., Buffalo, N.Y. |
| Sender’s Address | 3 South St., Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Date Written | 1936-06-19 |
| Postmark Date | 1936-06-19 |
| Postmark Location | Lily Dale, N.Y. |
| Postmark Time | 10 AM |
| Relationship | Mother to daughter |
| Subject | Money order, storm damage, and garden update |
| Tags | money, storm, housework, garden, family news |
| File | LINK |
''3 South St.''
<br>
''Lily Dale, N.Y.''
<br>
''June 19, 1936.''
<br><br>
Dear Fan,
<br><br>
Just a note to enclose the five dollars Dad promised you. I am sending a money order as I am afraid to send cash. You will be home so soon now that I will save all my talking until you get here.
<br><br>
Are you coming by bus or is Al going to bring you?
I saw Mrs. Clark and she is coming to paper the last of next week.
<br><br>
We had a bad windstorm Wednesday night. Two trees blew down and split that little house where the Handels stayed right in two. A lot of big trees blew down in the woods.
<br><br>
Dad got that Pittsburg woman’s house to paint. When he is going to get everything done, I don’t know. He was up at six this morning and worked over at Lou Thompson’s. He is now painting Frank Barbella’s boat and expects to finish Mrs. Williams house today.
<br><br>
The things are beginning to come up in our garden. Some day we will have a lot of nice things to eat. Will save the rest until Wednesday.
<br><br>
Love from Dad and
<br>
Mother
- Envelope and letter date match (June 19).
- Two pages are present and appear to be in the correct logical order.
- The phrase “Handels stayed” likely refers to a family name but is transcribed as written.
- Minor inconsistencies in capitalization and punctuation are preserved as written.
