Dublin Core
Title
Carolyn Gay Taft Farm Letters - Transcribed letters from 1935
Subject
Old Mission Peninsula (Mich.)
Agriculture
Farmers
Crops and climate
Agriculture
Farmers
Crops and climate
Description
Carolyn Gay Taft (1873-1952), was the owner of a small cherry farm on Old Mission Peninsula in the early 1900’s. While she spent her summers on the Peninsula, her primary job as a teacher at the Illinois
State School for the Deaf required hired hands to run the farm in her absence. These farmers, and their families, lived on the farm and sent frequent written reports to Ms. Taft. Most letters are written by the farmer’s wives, and provide a record of both agricultural and social history.
State School for the Deaf required hired hands to run the farm in her absence. These farmers, and their families, lived on the farm and sent frequent written reports to Ms. Taft. Most letters are written by the farmer’s wives, and provide a record of both agricultural and social history.
Creator
Ralph Kitchen, Joseph Kitchen, Essie Kitchen, Max Gilmore, Hazel Gilmore
Source
Collection donated to Peninsula Community Library by the surviving members of the Taft family.
Publisher
Peninsula Community Library
Date
1935
Contributor
Mary T Morgan
Rights
This document is protected by copyright law. Contact the Peninsula Community Library for permission to reproduce, display, or transmit this document.
Relation
None
Format
PDF
Language
English
Type
Document
Identifier
LHC 010
Coverage
Traverse City, Peninsula Township, Grand Traverse County, Michigan
PDF Text
Text
January 2, 1935
To Miss Taft
I am sorry But Max lost your letter of last week some way in getting’s mailed. So was not able to write an other till know.
Ronald has been very sick there was no Xmas for him and we had not had any sleep to speak of for three Nite. I had him to Dr twice the week of Xmas and is takeing 2 kind of medicine a day. And on a strick diet. He go so weak it was a big job for him to walk. The Dr says he is just very much run down. And could not resist catching cold every time he went out which weakened him very much. He feeling some what better. But I have to watch him very careful and it a job getting him to eat what good for him which one thing is livere (?)
His teeth has to be brushed three time a day on account of medicine he’s taking iron I imagine is in it that dicolore the teeth.
Yes the door has been on for a month and storm window to. Yes we had a very cold snap after Xmas But only lasted 2 days We have quite a little snow. But no bad.
In the other letter Max took the cow to Mr. Lou Zoulek and he had killed his animal. So Max says refund the money. So Mr. Lou Zoulek say he must have half .75 for his trouble. He say you can bring and other cow there for service as his animal will be ready in spring for service. So Max say I’ll tell Miss Taft. So on he travels clear to Archie Helfrich..
Ronald is enjoying his desk. I could not get it here in town so sent to the factory for it and came the Monday before Xmas and thanking very much
I fully intended a package to go to Jacksonville this year. But Dr. and Drugs store got it all.
The cow + calf + Horses are fine.
Yes,I received the card saying it coming The Ladies Home journal. Thank you very much. We received thru mail a very nice pitcure of Alberta and just like her. Ronald to possion of it right away saying that was his Alberta. And anyone that come in house he goes and get and show them saying that is his Alberta.
I guess that all the news
Sincerely
Max + Hazel + Ronald
January 12, 1935
To Miss Taft
Are snow was nearly gone and nearly as warm as spring.
But last nite we had some snow fall and the air is quite a lot colder.
Ronald was so pleased with his book and getting a package in mail. He jump up and down a say Miss Taft is nice to me and Miss Taft don’t forget me does she and the story just please him. He has to have book read thru ever nite before he goes to bed. My job. He is feeling quite good again if I can keep that way. So he can gain.
The brushed wool gloves you gave last year came in play this week a Ronald was needing some ankles for snow suit.
I will have to write you about check you sent us for July 1, 1933. As bad as we need and could use it for things we need so much. That we had cashed the at Henry Lardie and lost the money which $18.00 something as I remember I had board money for a week. So though I better write before it was cashed.
Max is cutting some. The weather has been in his favor.
Ronald say to tell you he hope you are well.
The horses are feeling fine. The cow and calf are enjoying yard the fine day. Max was at a cherry meeting at the town hall. They are trying hard to get a set price of 3 per pound. I don’t know far they will get. Mr. Heaten (?) gave a talk that he went into a store on his trip home to see his mother and ask for some apple. There were 4 apples for 25 cents. Were they from ask Mr. Heatere(?) from the west. Give me a .25 worth of Michigan apple The store man say we have none.
I guess that all news.
Sincerely,
Max Family
January 19, 1935
To Miss Taft
We recieved your letter clearing things up.
We have had a high wind and lots of snow blowing around. We are on able to reach Main road right know with car. But hopeing to be out in a day or so. Went to town yesterday and got Grocerys and medicine so will be all right.
Ronald is on gain and full of life and eating pretty good.
Yes we children at home was always taught to be honest. Max said when first seen the check you had most likely sent on the Jacksonville bank and forgot. Yes it dead loss to us. We were reminded of it other day as Max had buy a new driver license a little over a year on account of loseing the other which does not expire for three. Could not get a dupericote (?) of it as it lost. Mr. Vincil Kaues died to-nite at Munson Hospital.
Max say to ask you if you are going to buy manure if he can find some.
Mr. Henry Fox bought a carload of lime. He paid $3.00 ton. Some men are talking going into gether ordering a carload together.
Max is cutting wood. They are going to put a dray saw on big stuff Monday. I am seeing quite lot of logging I never seen before.
Mr. and Mrs. Eleware Crampton is about ready move into there new house. Have a drove well and he is going put light himself.
Richard Zang is married and home. I am invited to a shower for him + wife. I guess that all the news.
Sincerely
Max + Family
February 8, 1935
To Miss Taft
Are weather very stormy with lots of snow heavy and wet.
Yes Ronald is quite well. But I have to watch his diet close.
He still have to have the book you sent him read thru ever nite before he goes to bed. He like the storys so well.
Mrs. Lardie was in traverse staying two week with Mother Gilmore. She has room up there and so Mr. and Mrs. Milton Gore took them down to aid at Hooper’s.
The weather man say 14 below this morning. Just what ice men want and waiting for. The animals all very comfortable and warm. Healthy.
There don’t seem to be any news to write. Max will have his wood job done next week. Rodger Kitchen has moved into parsonage last week.
There lots of sickness around. Measles. Scarlet Fever.
I guess that all the news.
Sincerely
Max + Family
February 25, 1935
To Miss Taft
We are having a touch of winter last week and this quite a bit colder.
The whole country around has settled down to living again. Since they found the body of Harry Morris Christpher. Max went two days to help drag and break ice. It as very sad. There was not and an nicer boy in country. Very big funeral too.
Max wood job is nearly to and end. Some buzzing to do yet and hauling.
Ronald had a sick spell again a week ago. But was not so hard as last one.
In the telephone bill you received there was one on it for me and I got one of yours So we are even. And also the Telephone Batteries I only charged you for one. It should have been .41 (forty one cents) two batteries. Max gave me prise one and I thought was prise.
All the animals are fine. Surprise is growing fast. Max could not get her in one nite. So he thought he would watere the cow there. Ronald was to barn and came running up well saying Dad Daddy I got her. Max say How did you. Oh he say’s she stuck her head in the door and I pushed her in. He says I said naught word to.
I could not find Alberta picture one nite. I couldn’t image where it went. So was putting more covers on Ronald and he had it in bed with him. He think a lot of picture.
Tom Richard is cutting ice for Mrs. Jennison. Mr. Wilber 25 men on ice job too.
Are apple are all gone and I don’t know what the family will do for after supper lunch.
The prise on lime they not got there prise yet for this year. Around $18.00 per ton he thought at Kyselka.
Max could locate any manure. The one he was thinking of was out of town.
I head Rodger Kitchen is expecting to be a new daddy in spring.
I guess that all the news.
`
` Best Wishes to you
Max + Hazel. Sonny
April 23, 1935
To Miss Taft
A week ago to-day we had a very bad snow storm. the wind blowed hard then it had all winter.
You could not see the barn at times and there a very cold wind blow ever afternoon since.
I guess I did not ans you in regard to pop corn dutch cheese. You take 1 quart of whole milk and let set till
it is sour and thick and at nite put it into 1 gallow skim milk which be thick in morning. set in a pan
of hot water keep the temperature at 120 degrees. take a sharp knife cutting cheese like this ##. Wash
twice and fix the way you like best. It is not so hard and so sour.
Yes we had a suprise to on the check. We expect it be there on Monday so Max load the car with corn + oats
for cattle and we went as far mail box and come back. Max say this nice the fires didn't even go out
while we were gone.
Max has the dorment spray on Saturday and started discing orchards. Max say is getting very dry. The
grass is hardly green.
Max had to hire a man for this spray till horses get wore down a little. Tony Dohm had come and get
engine on sprayer started. Max say the spray barrels don't leak this year.
This booklet inclose is what the farmers are using around here instead of black leaf 40. There a meeting
at town hall on it by men that has used it. .95 cents per gallon.
Ronald fell on stone a cut big cut on his eye brow. I thought first we would have to have some stitches
take in it. His eye is nearly swollen shut.
Max say the fence is nearly done. Manure is all spread. Had Russell Gore spreadin at .10 Cnts per load.
$150.
Max payed weigh bill on manure but Tom payed him back so that all right.
Mrs. Richard lost her baby a 4 1/2 months. She lookss terrible. She say she to old to raise a family.
I guess that all news. Oh yes the man name Max got manure from was Mr. Benson
Sincerely
Max + Hazel
May 2, 1935
To Miss Taft
Are spring is coming slow we had snow nite before last and turn real cold even afternoon Max has to put on his gloves to keep his hands warm driving team.
I forgot to tell you the trees came about three week ago. 37. And are in and there was not enough to fill out vacant. The ones that thought might lived diden't
The sweet clover in little new or chard is coming on fine.
Working on corn ground discing. Lime is got and all on places mentioned and field's disced. $1.00 pd for use of drill to Archie Helfrich. And on lime bill is .50 for bone meal for cow. She is eating sticks and trying to chew stone. and butter was coming hard and slow. So Max did have any money alone so but on bill. Dr. Scott say that what to get Max was talking about it to him. Max say she seem to feel better. Suprise is enjoying the yard.
Mrs. Jannison house caught afire tueday in fire place. Chimney and was burning so of lath where stove pipe went in. Just three women where there. Mrs Jennison. Daughter Florance. Mrs. Couroy Which frightened them terrible. So but an alarm. Max + I + Ronald went down there. There was lots of help but nothing anyone could do.
Mr. and Mrs. Conroy is leaving Mr. Conroy is gone two week ago. Mrs. is going Sunday. and unmarried daughter of Mrs. Jennison going to run buisness. Henry Kitchen is givng milk lesson know. Henry say quite laughable.
Max want to know is you want to sell the light wagon down in barn and how much. Max brother want to get a one horse wagon.
The spray material is all here. So the new dope will have to wait.
Max went to a meeting at town hall of New spray material by a man that had used it.
I guess that all news.
Yes I wished we could find calf. But no one is killing. There raiscing them all making a little amt veal.
Sincerely
Man + Hazel.Sonny
May 25, 1935
To Miss Taft
I guess we have spring at least we have not had a heavy white frost for two nites. It has been very cold all spring. The leaves have came out half in two day's.
Max has his corn ground ready at last and is going to plant this week. The sweet cherry's are in bloom.
You had four rows of pea's. We put all the bean up in your garden. Mine to and am putting rest of your garden down with mine. We thouaght it would be all right with you as things burn up so terrible in your's and beans does all right.
Very heavy frost last nite again May 22. Ronald was five years old May 22
The blessing of blossom's is to be held this Sunday May 26. at Wilson farm where Arthur Kilmury work's.
Cub Spruits lost there son Saturday nite still birth and lost a cow the week before. There are quite a few looseing there cow's 3 in neighborhood.
We have a calf from Mr. Ben Ghering. I have 26 chicken out. its so cold there not doing good.
The gardens are in but are not up yet
Yes, we will get eves trought when we go to town again. I was wishing we could have a new one.
We need rain very bad and warm weather. Max just got thru draging all orchard thru. Ever thing budded heavy.
I guess that all the news.
I am invited to a shower for Mrs. Roger Kitchen. stork.
Sincerely
Max + Hazel. Ronald
June 5, 1935
To Miss Taft
No rain no rain had a dust storm to-day. Ever thing terrrible dry. Garden standing still.
Pea's are up. The rest is not. Max looked into a hill bean's and they were not even sprouted yet just laying there. Over two week in.
I had two meals of aspargus. there be no more if it doesen't rain. Cut worms are terrible
Max is replanting the corn and is nearly planting as much he did first time. Cut worms's he said were thick.
Suprise sure is growing she nearly as high as old cow only not near so wide. Max say sweet cherry look very good. A lot bigger crop than last year. The sour look good but it early to tell how many will drop. The grapes have had a very big supply of ashes. All along.
Did you get any of chain letters. We got one and I burnt it. Ever one seemed quite excited about them especially dollar ones that you sold.
There is a new house going up over in your neighborhood. Clawernce Kroupa
Ronald say to tell alberta to come.
Isen't living going sky high. poor people can not think of meat LIke Ronald I went to A&P store and he wanted some bananas and I see they were 3 pd for 17 cents so I told him they were to high. So he goes to front of store and comes running back say No Mama there not there away down low. I can reach them even.
The skies look cloudy but no rain come's it only get colder.
I guess that all the news.
Sincerely
Max + Hazel
June 14, 1935
To Miss Taft
We had a few sprinkles last nite. Not enough to do any good.
The garden are not up yet. They look pretty sickly I tell you. The peas are up but hit miss. Max say seed are there but no moisture to sprout them.
Max is spraying to-day ever thing is working the best it ever did. The pump engine is running good. The spray engine to. I take care of engine at house keeping oil and gas and looking after water tank and ever thing ready when Max comes back from the orchard. He has put on five tanks to-day and he said he could never do that before. We are pumping all the water this year as Wunch has not a very big supply on account of dry year.
Ronald is makeing a very good teamster. Max say help him a lot holding lines. Max does the talking to team. Max though he would have to hire a man this morning. At they didn't seem to want to work down and go slow.
I am sending a clipping from Grand Rapids press about cherries talk.
I guess that all new's.
Sour cherries crop is just fair. Max say some tree's are loaded and then again there not. But sweet are loaded.
Sincerely
Max + Hazel
September 18, 1935
To Miss Taft
We received your card to-day and this afternoon load straw to ha(??) to take the load. He said he had to take it as he would not be back with Mon Sept 14. Boss cow gave birth to a big heifer calf. Sorry to say on are part and animals. The truth is truth.
Ronald is back in school likeing very much but keeps me on road a bit. He had a nice letter from Alberta feeling very proud of it.
Lot of rain and cold weather. But sun is shining to-day. I canned 7 quart of swiss chard and picked 2 more pail black berries over by your place. I made 4 pt of sandwitch spread to-day. 4 bushel o peaches coming last of week.
Max is starting to cut corn he say it a job since last big rain it down so bad.
Max said to tell you the man thru off $2.03 on straw because he said it got a little wet coming thru last nite. But Max opened up a bail and it was all right. Max say he pretty sure he can sell the extra amount you don't want so bill inside letter.
I guess that all the news.
Thanks for what as in paper sack.
Sincerely
Max + Hazel. Sonny
excue paper I forgot to get Saturday
October 14, 1935
To Miss Taft
I am sorry to be so late with my letter. But some how I have not been able to set down a write. Funerals and Ronald sick again and trying to dodge the measles that in neighborhood.
And weathere is steady rain + more rain. We have had very funny weather lots of high winds. The winter apple are nearly all on ground.
Fay Dohm took straw and just hauled it home this week. Max has check but have not been to town yet to put into bank $18.00
1 load of wealthy the largest were picked. Tom hauled them. they went in about four oclock and dident get home till eleven oclock at nite. The load came to $9.46 which is waiting also to go into bank. The wind just put the rest on gound. The late apple are picked and in garage. Don't know what you will get No. 1 apples are selling .15 and .20 per bushel. No sale for pear's even to grocery store. Max took them. There were 5 bushel of No. 1 crab apple's at .30 cents per bushel. total $1.50 which goes to bank yet. Ever one had lo?? crab apple let. Tom Richard 15 bushel setting his shed and could not sell.
Do you want any crates made ...7 cents apiece and you furnish logs and you have to nail them yourself.
The new calf is coming fine and with out a name. Suprise cow likes get out very well if she can see away.
I guess that all new's
Mac + Hazel
October 19, 1935
To Miss Taft
We recieved your card to-day Friday.
We have had a couple day of beautiful weather warm and sunshine. We are enjoying it very much.
Max say he took biggest of Wealthys apple up there and figured he got fleesed on them and late apples run small ever one is. Mr. Lester Jhonson took a load up to packing co. and they culled him so he will not take any more. But have the winter apples picked and is going send them up there. Morgan is not taking any cider apple for ten day.
Yes nearly ever child is out school with measles. Ronald happened to be home sick from school a day before the kid came down with them so he was not exposed and have kept him out ever since. The County Nurse was down to see me. She say I don't blame you a buy (?) She said I would keep him home an other week and ever thing will clear up by then.
Max went hunting half a day and shot a rabbit + squirrel. The old fox squirrels are quite plentiul on in the wood in pasture.
I guess that all new's.. Oh yes I guess Mrs. Lardie is staying home this winter a May Emery a sister-in-law of Mr. Emery at Harbor. Mrs. Bartlett is fixing furnace for Mrs. Lardie
Sincerely
Max + Hazel
October 31, 1935
To Miss Taft
We recieved your letter and package too. Ronald was tickled and said that was nice of Miss Taft and thanking you very much. Ronald is back in school again and excaped measles I guess.
He likes school so well it was a hard job to keep him home then. I guess its to lonesome for him. Mrs. Noteware is a very good teacher. Ever Mothere say her child is doing so much better. She is strick but not mean.
Max say has not got topped carrots yet but except to soon The corn fodder got frosted bu not enough to hurt it any Max say. Th corn is not a good as it looked lots soft corn and loose on ear. Max say it will not run a bushel to shock.
(Daisy) the new calf is growing fine. The old cow was breed Oct 22 at Douglas Thompkins. I am supposed to tell you the fee's are wanted as bull belongs to boy and in cash. $1.25 each and could return the old cow if necessy.
The packing co. was closed last week and so will try get in this week. late apples.
Yes I told Max to send checks in but he though was best the other way. waiting till all sold. I did not say any more and let him have his way about it. like so man like to have. ha ha
Mrs. Lardie is here yet. I ask her plan for winter. My goodnes she say I don't need make any ever body else make them for me. I said that will save you trouble. But she say that don't suit me. A woman by of May Emery is saying with her know.
Oh yes we have a new milk man Ronald can milk the cow and enough at time so would last him all day to drink about 3 glass full. He goes around singing I can milk there Mamma cow. ha ha. He is right on job ever nite with him pail. The old cow is so gentle. Suprise sure like to get out and she sure can find away if there any
I guess that all news. I have not beets canned yet.
Sincerely
Max + Hazel. Sonny
November 15, 1935
To Miss Taft
Are weather is very good for this time of year. quite nippy but bright much of time.
Mr. Zang called up for bag's the nite before we got your card and dilivered them Monday of this week. 50 bushel at .35 cents per bushel.
Leslie Gore pulled trees Friday Bill $12.00
Ronald is just recovering from an attache of asthma with a nose bleeding out both nostrils. He is getting along fine in school. He is learning to read. He came home and repeated his lessson to me. See Mother see Father see Jane see Dick see baby. I would write them down a mix them up and he could point the one I told him to. Mrs. Noteware is a very good teacher. Ever one says there children is learning this year all ready then the last two year. Leslie Gore said he had quite a time convinceing them to hire a married woman.
I am wearing a glasses know. I thought I would go crazy last week with them. My eye's were in very bad shape. I was not seeing very much out of my left eye and far sighted. No reading for month. No takeing off glasses less I go and lay them down and shut my eyes. I have to go ever 2 week for four month. I went to Dr. Tinkere He seem to be real good. Ever one on the pensulia goes to him nearly.
Did I tell you Mrs. Lardie is going to spend the winter in Traverse City going this Thursday. Mr. Murry Tompkins though Mr. Mill the carpenter was very slow. said he would be a year building what he want to build with him.
Max has nearly all sod plowed and piece by pig pen plowed to.
An other tree blew over in wood. Mr. Cupp's + Jhon was over to see us. Was going coon hunting Sunday nite. they left so early in morning I don't know if they got any thing or not. I ask Max if lost there B.O. He said no. ha ha
Well I guess that all news.
Sincerly
Max + Hazel
P.S. Max has weigh bill on the packing Co. thay were closed when we went there two week ago on Saturday after noon. So will try and get them in soon.
I had to open letter so here is rest of new's. Max went to packing co. and they only pay on thursday so he told them to sent out check. The load of cider apple come to $4.00 and Morgan pay on Wednesday.
Tom Richard is still truck driver 3 loads apples $7.00 to Tom Richard
To Miss Taft
I am sorry But Max lost your letter of last week some way in getting’s mailed. So was not able to write an other till know.
Ronald has been very sick there was no Xmas for him and we had not had any sleep to speak of for three Nite. I had him to Dr twice the week of Xmas and is takeing 2 kind of medicine a day. And on a strick diet. He go so weak it was a big job for him to walk. The Dr says he is just very much run down. And could not resist catching cold every time he went out which weakened him very much. He feeling some what better. But I have to watch him very careful and it a job getting him to eat what good for him which one thing is livere (?)
His teeth has to be brushed three time a day on account of medicine he’s taking iron I imagine is in it that dicolore the teeth.
Yes the door has been on for a month and storm window to. Yes we had a very cold snap after Xmas But only lasted 2 days We have quite a little snow. But no bad.
In the other letter Max took the cow to Mr. Lou Zoulek and he had killed his animal. So Max says refund the money. So Mr. Lou Zoulek say he must have half .75 for his trouble. He say you can bring and other cow there for service as his animal will be ready in spring for service. So Max say I’ll tell Miss Taft. So on he travels clear to Archie Helfrich..
Ronald is enjoying his desk. I could not get it here in town so sent to the factory for it and came the Monday before Xmas and thanking very much
I fully intended a package to go to Jacksonville this year. But Dr. and Drugs store got it all.
The cow + calf + Horses are fine.
Yes,I received the card saying it coming The Ladies Home journal. Thank you very much. We received thru mail a very nice pitcure of Alberta and just like her. Ronald to possion of it right away saying that was his Alberta. And anyone that come in house he goes and get and show them saying that is his Alberta.
I guess that all the news
Sincerely
Max + Hazel + Ronald
January 12, 1935
To Miss Taft
Are snow was nearly gone and nearly as warm as spring.
But last nite we had some snow fall and the air is quite a lot colder.
Ronald was so pleased with his book and getting a package in mail. He jump up and down a say Miss Taft is nice to me and Miss Taft don’t forget me does she and the story just please him. He has to have book read thru ever nite before he goes to bed. My job. He is feeling quite good again if I can keep that way. So he can gain.
The brushed wool gloves you gave last year came in play this week a Ronald was needing some ankles for snow suit.
I will have to write you about check you sent us for July 1, 1933. As bad as we need and could use it for things we need so much. That we had cashed the at Henry Lardie and lost the money which $18.00 something as I remember I had board money for a week. So though I better write before it was cashed.
Max is cutting some. The weather has been in his favor.
Ronald say to tell you he hope you are well.
The horses are feeling fine. The cow and calf are enjoying yard the fine day. Max was at a cherry meeting at the town hall. They are trying hard to get a set price of 3 per pound. I don’t know far they will get. Mr. Heaten (?) gave a talk that he went into a store on his trip home to see his mother and ask for some apple. There were 4 apples for 25 cents. Were they from ask Mr. Heatere(?) from the west. Give me a .25 worth of Michigan apple The store man say we have none.
I guess that all news.
Sincerely,
Max Family
January 19, 1935
To Miss Taft
We recieved your letter clearing things up.
We have had a high wind and lots of snow blowing around. We are on able to reach Main road right know with car. But hopeing to be out in a day or so. Went to town yesterday and got Grocerys and medicine so will be all right.
Ronald is on gain and full of life and eating pretty good.
Yes we children at home was always taught to be honest. Max said when first seen the check you had most likely sent on the Jacksonville bank and forgot. Yes it dead loss to us. We were reminded of it other day as Max had buy a new driver license a little over a year on account of loseing the other which does not expire for three. Could not get a dupericote (?) of it as it lost. Mr. Vincil Kaues died to-nite at Munson Hospital.
Max say to ask you if you are going to buy manure if he can find some.
Mr. Henry Fox bought a carload of lime. He paid $3.00 ton. Some men are talking going into gether ordering a carload together.
Max is cutting wood. They are going to put a dray saw on big stuff Monday. I am seeing quite lot of logging I never seen before.
Mr. and Mrs. Eleware Crampton is about ready move into there new house. Have a drove well and he is going put light himself.
Richard Zang is married and home. I am invited to a shower for him + wife. I guess that all the news.
Sincerely
Max + Family
February 8, 1935
To Miss Taft
Are weather very stormy with lots of snow heavy and wet.
Yes Ronald is quite well. But I have to watch his diet close.
He still have to have the book you sent him read thru ever nite before he goes to bed. He like the storys so well.
Mrs. Lardie was in traverse staying two week with Mother Gilmore. She has room up there and so Mr. and Mrs. Milton Gore took them down to aid at Hooper’s.
The weather man say 14 below this morning. Just what ice men want and waiting for. The animals all very comfortable and warm. Healthy.
There don’t seem to be any news to write. Max will have his wood job done next week. Rodger Kitchen has moved into parsonage last week.
There lots of sickness around. Measles. Scarlet Fever.
I guess that all the news.
Sincerely
Max + Family
February 25, 1935
To Miss Taft
We are having a touch of winter last week and this quite a bit colder.
The whole country around has settled down to living again. Since they found the body of Harry Morris Christpher. Max went two days to help drag and break ice. It as very sad. There was not and an nicer boy in country. Very big funeral too.
Max wood job is nearly to and end. Some buzzing to do yet and hauling.
Ronald had a sick spell again a week ago. But was not so hard as last one.
In the telephone bill you received there was one on it for me and I got one of yours So we are even. And also the Telephone Batteries I only charged you for one. It should have been .41 (forty one cents) two batteries. Max gave me prise one and I thought was prise.
All the animals are fine. Surprise is growing fast. Max could not get her in one nite. So he thought he would watere the cow there. Ronald was to barn and came running up well saying Dad Daddy I got her. Max say How did you. Oh he say’s she stuck her head in the door and I pushed her in. He says I said naught word to.
I could not find Alberta picture one nite. I couldn’t image where it went. So was putting more covers on Ronald and he had it in bed with him. He think a lot of picture.
Tom Richard is cutting ice for Mrs. Jennison. Mr. Wilber 25 men on ice job too.
Are apple are all gone and I don’t know what the family will do for after supper lunch.
The prise on lime they not got there prise yet for this year. Around $18.00 per ton he thought at Kyselka.
Max could locate any manure. The one he was thinking of was out of town.
I head Rodger Kitchen is expecting to be a new daddy in spring.
I guess that all the news.
`
` Best Wishes to you
Max + Hazel. Sonny
April 23, 1935
To Miss Taft
A week ago to-day we had a very bad snow storm. the wind blowed hard then it had all winter.
You could not see the barn at times and there a very cold wind blow ever afternoon since.
I guess I did not ans you in regard to pop corn dutch cheese. You take 1 quart of whole milk and let set till
it is sour and thick and at nite put it into 1 gallow skim milk which be thick in morning. set in a pan
of hot water keep the temperature at 120 degrees. take a sharp knife cutting cheese like this ##. Wash
twice and fix the way you like best. It is not so hard and so sour.
Yes we had a suprise to on the check. We expect it be there on Monday so Max load the car with corn + oats
for cattle and we went as far mail box and come back. Max say this nice the fires didn't even go out
while we were gone.
Max has the dorment spray on Saturday and started discing orchards. Max say is getting very dry. The
grass is hardly green.
Max had to hire a man for this spray till horses get wore down a little. Tony Dohm had come and get
engine on sprayer started. Max say the spray barrels don't leak this year.
This booklet inclose is what the farmers are using around here instead of black leaf 40. There a meeting
at town hall on it by men that has used it. .95 cents per gallon.
Ronald fell on stone a cut big cut on his eye brow. I thought first we would have to have some stitches
take in it. His eye is nearly swollen shut.
Max say the fence is nearly done. Manure is all spread. Had Russell Gore spreadin at .10 Cnts per load.
$150.
Max payed weigh bill on manure but Tom payed him back so that all right.
Mrs. Richard lost her baby a 4 1/2 months. She lookss terrible. She say she to old to raise a family.
I guess that all news. Oh yes the man name Max got manure from was Mr. Benson
Sincerely
Max + Hazel
May 2, 1935
To Miss Taft
Are spring is coming slow we had snow nite before last and turn real cold even afternoon Max has to put on his gloves to keep his hands warm driving team.
I forgot to tell you the trees came about three week ago. 37. And are in and there was not enough to fill out vacant. The ones that thought might lived diden't
The sweet clover in little new or chard is coming on fine.
Working on corn ground discing. Lime is got and all on places mentioned and field's disced. $1.00 pd for use of drill to Archie Helfrich. And on lime bill is .50 for bone meal for cow. She is eating sticks and trying to chew stone. and butter was coming hard and slow. So Max did have any money alone so but on bill. Dr. Scott say that what to get Max was talking about it to him. Max say she seem to feel better. Suprise is enjoying the yard.
Mrs. Jannison house caught afire tueday in fire place. Chimney and was burning so of lath where stove pipe went in. Just three women where there. Mrs Jennison. Daughter Florance. Mrs. Couroy Which frightened them terrible. So but an alarm. Max + I + Ronald went down there. There was lots of help but nothing anyone could do.
Mr. and Mrs. Conroy is leaving Mr. Conroy is gone two week ago. Mrs. is going Sunday. and unmarried daughter of Mrs. Jennison going to run buisness. Henry Kitchen is givng milk lesson know. Henry say quite laughable.
Max want to know is you want to sell the light wagon down in barn and how much. Max brother want to get a one horse wagon.
The spray material is all here. So the new dope will have to wait.
Max went to a meeting at town hall of New spray material by a man that had used it.
I guess that all news.
Yes I wished we could find calf. But no one is killing. There raiscing them all making a little amt veal.
Sincerely
Man + Hazel.Sonny
May 25, 1935
To Miss Taft
I guess we have spring at least we have not had a heavy white frost for two nites. It has been very cold all spring. The leaves have came out half in two day's.
Max has his corn ground ready at last and is going to plant this week. The sweet cherry's are in bloom.
You had four rows of pea's. We put all the bean up in your garden. Mine to and am putting rest of your garden down with mine. We thouaght it would be all right with you as things burn up so terrible in your's and beans does all right.
Very heavy frost last nite again May 22. Ronald was five years old May 22
The blessing of blossom's is to be held this Sunday May 26. at Wilson farm where Arthur Kilmury work's.
Cub Spruits lost there son Saturday nite still birth and lost a cow the week before. There are quite a few looseing there cow's 3 in neighborhood.
We have a calf from Mr. Ben Ghering. I have 26 chicken out. its so cold there not doing good.
The gardens are in but are not up yet
Yes, we will get eves trought when we go to town again. I was wishing we could have a new one.
We need rain very bad and warm weather. Max just got thru draging all orchard thru. Ever thing budded heavy.
I guess that all the news.
I am invited to a shower for Mrs. Roger Kitchen. stork.
Sincerely
Max + Hazel. Ronald
June 5, 1935
To Miss Taft
No rain no rain had a dust storm to-day. Ever thing terrrible dry. Garden standing still.
Pea's are up. The rest is not. Max looked into a hill bean's and they were not even sprouted yet just laying there. Over two week in.
I had two meals of aspargus. there be no more if it doesen't rain. Cut worms are terrible
Max is replanting the corn and is nearly planting as much he did first time. Cut worms's he said were thick.
Suprise sure is growing she nearly as high as old cow only not near so wide. Max say sweet cherry look very good. A lot bigger crop than last year. The sour look good but it early to tell how many will drop. The grapes have had a very big supply of ashes. All along.
Did you get any of chain letters. We got one and I burnt it. Ever one seemed quite excited about them especially dollar ones that you sold.
There is a new house going up over in your neighborhood. Clawernce Kroupa
Ronald say to tell alberta to come.
Isen't living going sky high. poor people can not think of meat LIke Ronald I went to A&P store and he wanted some bananas and I see they were 3 pd for 17 cents so I told him they were to high. So he goes to front of store and comes running back say No Mama there not there away down low. I can reach them even.
The skies look cloudy but no rain come's it only get colder.
I guess that all the news.
Sincerely
Max + Hazel
June 14, 1935
To Miss Taft
We had a few sprinkles last nite. Not enough to do any good.
The garden are not up yet. They look pretty sickly I tell you. The peas are up but hit miss. Max say seed are there but no moisture to sprout them.
Max is spraying to-day ever thing is working the best it ever did. The pump engine is running good. The spray engine to. I take care of engine at house keeping oil and gas and looking after water tank and ever thing ready when Max comes back from the orchard. He has put on five tanks to-day and he said he could never do that before. We are pumping all the water this year as Wunch has not a very big supply on account of dry year.
Ronald is makeing a very good teamster. Max say help him a lot holding lines. Max does the talking to team. Max though he would have to hire a man this morning. At they didn't seem to want to work down and go slow.
I am sending a clipping from Grand Rapids press about cherries talk.
I guess that all new's.
Sour cherries crop is just fair. Max say some tree's are loaded and then again there not. But sweet are loaded.
Sincerely
Max + Hazel
September 18, 1935
To Miss Taft
We received your card to-day and this afternoon load straw to ha(??) to take the load. He said he had to take it as he would not be back with Mon Sept 14. Boss cow gave birth to a big heifer calf. Sorry to say on are part and animals. The truth is truth.
Ronald is back in school likeing very much but keeps me on road a bit. He had a nice letter from Alberta feeling very proud of it.
Lot of rain and cold weather. But sun is shining to-day. I canned 7 quart of swiss chard and picked 2 more pail black berries over by your place. I made 4 pt of sandwitch spread to-day. 4 bushel o peaches coming last of week.
Max is starting to cut corn he say it a job since last big rain it down so bad.
Max said to tell you the man thru off $2.03 on straw because he said it got a little wet coming thru last nite. But Max opened up a bail and it was all right. Max say he pretty sure he can sell the extra amount you don't want so bill inside letter.
I guess that all the news.
Thanks for what as in paper sack.
Sincerely
Max + Hazel. Sonny
excue paper I forgot to get Saturday
October 14, 1935
To Miss Taft
I am sorry to be so late with my letter. But some how I have not been able to set down a write. Funerals and Ronald sick again and trying to dodge the measles that in neighborhood.
And weathere is steady rain + more rain. We have had very funny weather lots of high winds. The winter apple are nearly all on ground.
Fay Dohm took straw and just hauled it home this week. Max has check but have not been to town yet to put into bank $18.00
1 load of wealthy the largest were picked. Tom hauled them. they went in about four oclock and dident get home till eleven oclock at nite. The load came to $9.46 which is waiting also to go into bank. The wind just put the rest on gound. The late apple are picked and in garage. Don't know what you will get No. 1 apples are selling .15 and .20 per bushel. No sale for pear's even to grocery store. Max took them. There were 5 bushel of No. 1 crab apple's at .30 cents per bushel. total $1.50 which goes to bank yet. Ever one had lo?? crab apple let. Tom Richard 15 bushel setting his shed and could not sell.
Do you want any crates made ...7 cents apiece and you furnish logs and you have to nail them yourself.
The new calf is coming fine and with out a name. Suprise cow likes get out very well if she can see away.
I guess that all new's
Mac + Hazel
October 19, 1935
To Miss Taft
We recieved your card to-day Friday.
We have had a couple day of beautiful weather warm and sunshine. We are enjoying it very much.
Max say he took biggest of Wealthys apple up there and figured he got fleesed on them and late apples run small ever one is. Mr. Lester Jhonson took a load up to packing co. and they culled him so he will not take any more. But have the winter apples picked and is going send them up there. Morgan is not taking any cider apple for ten day.
Yes nearly ever child is out school with measles. Ronald happened to be home sick from school a day before the kid came down with them so he was not exposed and have kept him out ever since. The County Nurse was down to see me. She say I don't blame you a buy (?) She said I would keep him home an other week and ever thing will clear up by then.
Max went hunting half a day and shot a rabbit + squirrel. The old fox squirrels are quite plentiul on in the wood in pasture.
I guess that all new's.. Oh yes I guess Mrs. Lardie is staying home this winter a May Emery a sister-in-law of Mr. Emery at Harbor. Mrs. Bartlett is fixing furnace for Mrs. Lardie
Sincerely
Max + Hazel
October 31, 1935
To Miss Taft
We recieved your letter and package too. Ronald was tickled and said that was nice of Miss Taft and thanking you very much. Ronald is back in school again and excaped measles I guess.
He likes school so well it was a hard job to keep him home then. I guess its to lonesome for him. Mrs. Noteware is a very good teacher. Ever Mothere say her child is doing so much better. She is strick but not mean.
Max say has not got topped carrots yet but except to soon The corn fodder got frosted bu not enough to hurt it any Max say. Th corn is not a good as it looked lots soft corn and loose on ear. Max say it will not run a bushel to shock.
(Daisy) the new calf is growing fine. The old cow was breed Oct 22 at Douglas Thompkins. I am supposed to tell you the fee's are wanted as bull belongs to boy and in cash. $1.25 each and could return the old cow if necessy.
The packing co. was closed last week and so will try get in this week. late apples.
Yes I told Max to send checks in but he though was best the other way. waiting till all sold. I did not say any more and let him have his way about it. like so man like to have. ha ha
Mrs. Lardie is here yet. I ask her plan for winter. My goodnes she say I don't need make any ever body else make them for me. I said that will save you trouble. But she say that don't suit me. A woman by of May Emery is saying with her know.
Oh yes we have a new milk man Ronald can milk the cow and enough at time so would last him all day to drink about 3 glass full. He goes around singing I can milk there Mamma cow. ha ha. He is right on job ever nite with him pail. The old cow is so gentle. Suprise sure like to get out and she sure can find away if there any
I guess that all news. I have not beets canned yet.
Sincerely
Max + Hazel. Sonny
November 15, 1935
To Miss Taft
Are weather is very good for this time of year. quite nippy but bright much of time.
Mr. Zang called up for bag's the nite before we got your card and dilivered them Monday of this week. 50 bushel at .35 cents per bushel.
Leslie Gore pulled trees Friday Bill $12.00
Ronald is just recovering from an attache of asthma with a nose bleeding out both nostrils. He is getting along fine in school. He is learning to read. He came home and repeated his lessson to me. See Mother see Father see Jane see Dick see baby. I would write them down a mix them up and he could point the one I told him to. Mrs. Noteware is a very good teacher. Ever one says there children is learning this year all ready then the last two year. Leslie Gore said he had quite a time convinceing them to hire a married woman.
I am wearing a glasses know. I thought I would go crazy last week with them. My eye's were in very bad shape. I was not seeing very much out of my left eye and far sighted. No reading for month. No takeing off glasses less I go and lay them down and shut my eyes. I have to go ever 2 week for four month. I went to Dr. Tinkere He seem to be real good. Ever one on the pensulia goes to him nearly.
Did I tell you Mrs. Lardie is going to spend the winter in Traverse City going this Thursday. Mr. Murry Tompkins though Mr. Mill the carpenter was very slow. said he would be a year building what he want to build with him.
Max has nearly all sod plowed and piece by pig pen plowed to.
An other tree blew over in wood. Mr. Cupp's + Jhon was over to see us. Was going coon hunting Sunday nite. they left so early in morning I don't know if they got any thing or not. I ask Max if lost there B.O. He said no. ha ha
Well I guess that all news.
Sincerly
Max + Hazel
P.S. Max has weigh bill on the packing Co. thay were closed when we went there two week ago on Saturday after noon. So will try and get them in soon.
I had to open letter so here is rest of new's. Max went to packing co. and they only pay on thursday so he told them to sent out check. The load of cider apple come to $4.00 and Morgan pay on Wednesday.
Tom Richard is still truck driver 3 loads apples $7.00 to Tom Richard
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