BOYD FAMILY WRITINGS

1846 TO 1940

ANDREW DEVORE BOYD, transcriber

adboyd@charter.net

1 February 2009

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Introduction

The following 87 writings have been collected over many years by various family members. They

include letters, poems, and diary excerpts, and are presented chronologically. All but two or three of

the originals are in the possession of the transcriber. The pictures are also in my collection.

Highlights include letters describing an 1845 Christmas Tree (Letter 1); Army life in Texas in 1849

(Letter 2); the inauguration of President Zachary Taylor in 1849 (Letter 3); service in the Union

Army during the Civil War (Letters 16 - 22); a tour of war-time Washington D.C (Letters 18,

22); the advantages of moving to Colorado 1872 and 1873 (Letters 24, 26, 29 - 31); a train trip

from Kansas City to Colorado in 1873 (Letter 32); a wagon trip to Estes Park, Colorado in 1903

(Letter 54); service in World War One in France and Germany (Letters 63 – 76); as well as the

normal family information of births, marriages, work, school, illnesses and deaths.

The writers are all related to Joseph Boyd Jr. who was born 5 July 1766 on his father’s tobacco

plantation in Prince George’s County, Maryland. He married three times and had ten children. He

moved west to Ohio in 1814, settling first in Licking County, Ohio and finally in Marion County,

Ohio. He died 18 December 1846 on his farm in Pleasant Township, Marion County.

The major writers are Ann (Scott) Livingston of Baltimore, Maryland (1784 – 1852), Ann was

Joseph’s aunt and his mother’s sister; Joseph Jr’s grandsons Joseph John Boyd (1833 – 1887) and

Harry Livingston Boyd (1838 – 1903), both Civil War veterans of Marion, Ohio and Loveland,

Colorado; Joseph John’s father-in-law, Hezekiah Gorton of New York, Ohio and Colorado (1793 –

1882); Joseph John’s son, Willis Gorton Boyd (1859 – 1939) who is my great grandfather; Willis’

wife Margaret Elizabeth (Cross) Boyd (1862 – 1942); and Andrew Frank Boyd, my namesake and

grandfather, a son of Willis and Margaret (1891 – 1972).

I hope these writings will help us feel closer to our ancestors. Their lives, concerns and joys are

much like our own.

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Letter 1

Date: March 1846

From: Susan Catherine Boyd, Ann (Scott) Livingston; postmarked Baltimore, Maryland[ ]1

To: Hiram Boyd, c/o Joseph Boyd Jr.; Marion, Ohio

Dear Sister Mary Ellen,

I am going to write to you for the first time and I want to know how you spent your

Christmas? I have spent my Christmas very pleasant.

And Sister Martha and I have had a Christmas bush and the bush was set in a small block and

a table was covered with a white cloth. The bush was set on it and in the morning we come down

we found our bush hung with candies of different kinds. And Aunts cut us some paper birds and

they were hung on the bush. And some of candy were dogs, chicks, bellows and a pair of shoes, a

harp, a pair of scissors, and pipes, fish, apples, cakes and they were all made candy.

Sister Martha and I have had the chickenpox and Aunts has keep me at home ever since

Christmas. And Aunts sent their loves to you. Aunt Ann often says that she would like you come

here.

Sister and I have sent our loves to you and Brothers and Father and Grandfather,

Grandmother. And I want to know how your pet lamb is coming on and I want to know where

Father is now?

I am learning too. My Uncle Joseph and I am learning to read, write and cipher, spelling,

geography. Aunts thinks that it is best for me to stay home; there are so much smallpox about.

Aunt Mary has got bad cold so that she is confined at home and she has got a bad cough and

she has not been able to be at the good's store.

Susan C. Boyd

Dear Hiram

The foregoing letter is altogether Susan Catherine's own composition and you must excuse all

misspellings as it is her first. The children often speak of thee and their Brothers and Sister and

little Martha Ann says, "I wish my pappy would come here and bring sister Elly. I would hug him

and kiss him so dearly."[ ]2 She is beginning to spell in three letters. She is a sprightly child.

1 This letter was mailed at a cost of 10 cents which was a lot of money in 1846. It was common to include notes from other family members in the same letter to offset the high postage charges. 2 Hiram Boyd's wife Matilda died in childbirth in 1843 while the family was traveling west to Ohio. Hiram sent his two youngest daughters, Susan Catherine and Martha Ann, to live in a boardinghouse in Baltimore, Maryland run buy his Aunt Ann Scott Livingston and his sisters Eleanor and Mary Boyd. Hiram took his

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I often look at Susan and Martha and wish Mary Ellen was with them, if we had any way to

get her here. We should like to hear how you all came on. I wrote thee some time back and have

not rec'd any answer. The time feels long to us.

Thy Brother Joseph enjoys much better health than he did last winter notwithstanding he has

been complaining some these two or three weeks back. Mary took a bad cold before Christmas

and it was very tedious so that we began to feel quite concerned about her lest it should settle on

her breast. She has not quite recovered altho' she attends to business. Ellen enjoys good health

and is fat. Has thee seen or heard anything of Margaret Powel's sister Albino Morgan? I wish

thee would inquire about her.

How does they aged Father come on? Is he still living and does he enjoy good health? His

children would like very much to see him or get a line from him sometimes, as the tender ties of

consanguinity can never be severed whilst life lasts. And they had cherished the hope that they

should have seen him once more, but now they begin to think that it is likely they never shall

meet on this stage of mortality; but trust their spirits will be united in the world that is to come.

In love and affectionate regard to all I conclude and remain thy Aunt. Ann Livingston

2nd mo. 4th, 1846

This letter has been wrote some time and neglected to be sent therefore I will just add that we

are all well now. I wish that thee would write to us soon.

3rd, Mar 7

Martha Ann says please to come here and share some of the good things that they get.

Letter 2

Date: 18 March 1849

From: Sergeant George Washington Boyd, San Antonio, Texas3

To: Sylvester Boyd, Waldo post office, Marion County, Ohio

March 18th, 1849

Dear Brother,

two sons, Joseph and Harry, and his oldest daughter Mary Ellen to Ohio. Hiram's father, his uncle John Boyd, and Aunt Rachel Boyd Harrington had all settled earlier in 1814 in Licking County, Ohio. 3 George served as a sergeant in the War with Mexico. He died soon after this letter was written and was buried in Texas.

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Camp Salado Near San Antona Texas

I take my pen in hand to write a few lines to let you know that I received your letter on the 20

of November last Which gave me great pleasure to hear that you were all in tolerable good health.

Since I wrote to you last I have traveled a great ways and do expect to start from this Camp in

about one month for a place in New Mexico called Elpasso. From the best accounts of the front it

is about seven hundred Miles from San Antona Debecker.

I am well and hope these lines may find you enjoying the same health. I am in good spirits and

do hope to see you all again. The time passes away very sow(sic) and tedius but every day now

counts one. I have not quite one year to server my Country. You stated that you wrote to

Washington but I suppose it is of no account. There is nothing heard from it. You wanted to

know whether a soldier would get his pay if discharged before the expiration of his enlistment. A

soldier gets pay every two months if in regular garrison but some times they are not payd(sic) for

four months. But if a soldier is dischared he gets his full pay all that is due him an his enlistment.

I want you to let me know how you all get on and how things and mater [sic] are in general

and how my affares [sic] stand. I want you see that mother is comfortable and that everything is

right on the farm and to see that the taxes are paid on home farm and on the lot that is west of

Marion and to get all the papers concerning them and Deeds and file them away so that they do

not get lost. For they will come good to me some time for if I should live to see March fifty I

shall have my discharge which is good to me for one hundred and sixty acres of land which I can

take any where in the United States where there is land for entry. I expect to get to the gold

region yet before long in New Mexico. All the cry is gold in California every body is going from

there(sic) homes to California. Wages are very high. A labouring man they say gets from fifty to

sixty dollars a month of diging(sic) gold so who nose(sic) what luck i might have.

I will close by giving my best respects to mother and brother and relation and to all that may

inquire.

I want you to answer this letter as soon as can and let me know what is doing there. You will

direct your letters to San Antonia, Texas, 3rd Regiment of Infantry, Company I, USA

I Remain Your Respectfully Sylvester Boyd,

Sergt, George W. Boyd

Letter 3

Date: 20 March 1849

From: Ann (Scott) Livingston; Baltimore, Maryland

To: Hiram Boyd; Siqua, Marion County, Ohio

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This letter has been written 2 weeks but I thought I would send it.

Mar.20th 1849.

To Hiram Boyd

Siqua, Marion County, Ohio

Dear Sister,

Will thee please excuse me for not writing to thee before for my time is so much taken up. I

have such hard lessons to get and I go to night lectures on geography taught by a boy fourteen

years of age. He is steady nice boy; his name is Edwin Hanes. His widowed mother and two

other smaller children are supported by him and he is trying to make enough money to educate

his brother and sister and himself as he only know geography. They expect to go to the west for

she has a farm there. He is a very affectionate son to his mother.

We are all well. It is the first month of spring and it makes us all feel so nice. Aunt Elly is a fat

and hearty as ever. Aunt Mary is well and at the store. We have a good many boarders now. We

have a man and his wife and four children, two boys and two girls and seven men besides. We

have twenty two in family altogether. How is the weather with you? It has been very cold and has

snowed two or three times this winter. We go to school to a Friend and the Friends[ ]4 are

building a schoolhouse in the meetinghouse yard. It is a elegant place. I learn reading, writing,

geography, grammar, philosophy, arithmetic, history, and scholar's companion. Sister learns

reading, writing and geography. Our school is near our home.

Sister, tell Brothers and Father that I never wanted to see anybody so badly as I do you. Sister

says the same thing.

Everybody says we grow very fast. I am four feet and eleven inches high and sister is four feet.

When thee writes thee must tell me how high thee and brothers is and if you go to school and

what you learn. I expect Brother Joseph is quite a young man now and thee a young women. How

big is little Henry; as he used to be?

Aunt Nancy, Aunt Ellen, Aunt Mary, Sister and I all send our love to Father, Brothers and

thee and hope you will do well and I remain thy affectionate sister. Susan C Boyd

Please write soon.

Dear Sister,

I can write a little. I send my love to you all. I want to see you very bad.

4 Friends School: Hiram Boyd’s mother Mary Scott and her family were Quakers. Hiram's father Joseph Boyd Jr. was evidentially not a Quaker because he is listed on the militia roles in Maryland.

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I remain thy affectionate sister. Martha Ann Boyd

Dear Hiram,

Thee will see by the children's writing that they are still deficient in their learning and I think

it is in measure owing to their teacher. Altho' she is highly spoken of yet I do not believe she

takes pains to instruct them as she ought for the pay that she gets. We pay for Susan C. 5 per

quarter and 4 for all books and stationary beside and they go constantly when well.

The children have grown very much. Susan is nearly as high as Ellen. They are learning

geography from a small boy.

We have had a very exciting time for a few days. The people were so anxious to see the

inauguration of General Taylor[ ]5 that they flocked to Washington by thousands. And the papers

say it was a brilliant affair, enough for a lifetime. I hope we shall not be disappointed in him. His

is short and brief in all his communications.

I have not heard from Brother Isaac lately but when I did hear they were well. Wilson has a

fine son five months old and Martha Ann expects to be sick soon. Mary Scott keeps house for

Isaac and Oliver. Kitty and Samuel Smith were well the last time that I heard from them. Hiram,

we should like very much to see thee and the children and if it was possible Mary Ellen could

here. We should be glad to have her for a while but do not know how thee would spare her but it

would be for her good. We have not had a letter from William for some years. I wish thee would

write to him and request him to write to us.

We should like to have a description of the place where thee lives. As we feel some curiosity to

know, we should like to hear if they fathers estate was settled up and how the children's money

was appropriated and if is secure as we feel a deep interest in them and thee. We feel that time

nor distance can not obliterate you are often our morning and evening talk and we have tried to

keep alive that feeling of love in thy children which ought to exist betweenst you. There is many

things that I would write about but my paper will not admit and I leave it for the next. We wish

thee to write soon and often. We recd they last and it with it's contents was very acceptable. With

affectionate regard, I am thy Aunt.

I have delayed sending this to the post office much longer than I had intended. Therefore I

will add that Wilson and Oliver have been here on a visit. They informed me that Martha Ann

had a fine daughter and was doing well.

Also that Isaac was as well as usual. Oliver is now 20 and him and his father cannot come

upon terms about how they should arrange the farming interest. Isaac is penurious and Oliver

5 The inauguration of President Zachary Taylor (1849-1850).

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wants experience and they make a great deal of hard speaking and hard thinking. It is sorrowful

to me to think a man and his Children cannot get on in more harmony. Thine as usual, write

soon to me, Aunt Ann Livingston

Letter 4

Date: 13 May 1849

From: Ann (Scott) Livingston; postmarked Baltimore, Maryland

To: Hiram Boyd; Ohio

Dear Sister,

I take this opportunity to write to thee for the first time. We are making paper flowers. I

expect the country looks very pretty and green. We are going in the new schoolhouse on the 15th

of May which is in the meetinghouse yard. I am learning reading, writing, spelling and

geography. Aunts and Sister all send their loves to you all.

So I remain thy affectionate sister, Martha Ann Boyd

Dear Brother Joseph,

Aunt received Father's letter which contained thine to thy Sisters on the 11th of May and was

very glad to hear from you all and now I sit down to write to thee. The weather has been very

disagreeable and cold. There has been some warm weather which makes the trees look very pretty

and green. We go to Friend's school taught by a Friend. The Friends have built a schoolhouse in

the meetinghouse yard for the scholars and is shaded by large trees which are very pretty. I learn

reading, writing, geography, history, philosophy, grammar, scholar's companion, astronomy and

arithmetics. They are all very interesting.

I am pretty nearly as high as thee; I am 4 feet 11 inches, sister is 4 feet. Sister said in her letter

that we were making paper flowers such as roses, fuchsias, honeysuckles, jasmines. I was sorry to

hear the death of Cousin Sarah and was glad to hear that all the rest were well. When thee writes

to Cousin Hiram give my love to him.

I never wanted to see anybody so badly as I do you. Tell Sister Mary that Aunt Ann says that

she wishes Father could get an opportunity to send her in. Give my love to Father and Sister and

Brother and tell him that I was glad to hear that he was going to school.

And I remain your most affectionate sister, Susan Catherine Boyd

5 mo. 13 1849

Dear Hiram,

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I have taken my pen to write a few lines in the children's letter by way of acknowledgment of

thine and Joseph's letter. We were very glad to hear from you as it is the only medium by which

we can be made acquainted with each others situation which doubtless thee with myself feels

interested. Thee mentioned that thee had a prospect of leaving thy present location but didn't say

that thee had another in view.

We should like to have Mary Ellen with us for a while if it was practicable. How far does thee

live from Green Plain where Cousin Wm. Hayward lives. Cousin Betsy Hayward is going out to

her father's in a week or so and expects to stay 2 or three months and then return to Baltimore.

She said if thee could get Mary Ellen there she would bring her in when she comes home. I

should like thee to make some inquiry about it and write afterwards.

I should like the children to see each other. They speak of thee and them with great delight.

We have always tried to keep alive that feeling of affection which is desirable in families.

I should be very glad to get a letter from your Brother William. There is some articles of

wearing apparel that I should like thee and Wm. to have which was left by your Brother Joseph if

there was any way to get them to you. It feels hard sometimes to me when I think we are so

widely separated. We are now left in this place without one male relative nearer than Thomas

Suissel. It is true he is kind and offers to do many little things for us but it is not like it used to be

when Brother Joseph and G. Boyd was with us. It is true we are in the midst of friends and all

very clever when you do not want a favor, and I am very cautious how I ask favors of anybody but

my own.

I do not want to complain but feel thankful that with our small means and by steady

perseverance we have been able to make all ends meet at the end of the year. I cannot boast of my

health yet I am mostly able to stir about. Ellen and Mary enjoy pretty good health and so do the

little girls and they grow very fast. I do not think thee would know them. Martha Ann has

written a little to let thee see how she can write. Susan C. has not improved as much considering

how long she had been going to school.

Tell Mary E. that she must be a good girl and take care of herself and see if she cannot beat

Susan in housekeeping. Tell all the children that their Aunts love them and wish them well as

also thyself and desire your preservation in every way.

With love and esteem I am thy Aunt, Ann S. Livingston

Hiram Boyd don't make it long before thee writes to us.

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Letter 5

Date: 18 August 1850

From: Ann (Scott) Livingston; Baltimore, Maryland

To: Hiram Boyd; Ohio

8 mo. 18th 1850

My Dear Hiram,

We rec'd thy last letter and was very glad to hear from you, as we began to think the time long

since we had heard of you.

The Children was making preparation to send you a letter. Martha had already written one to

be enclosed in mine. She is very desirous of seeing you all and when they letter came, She got it

and hugged it in her arms and was delighted. She grows finely and is what may be termed a good

child. Susan C. has grown very fast and has heretofore been very healthy but she is not well at this

time. She has been in bed 4 days and we considered it right to consult the doctor for her. He says

her case is not common but thinks she will be better in a few days. She is weak but not very sick.

We have had many anxious moments about Mary E. knowing that it is a precarious time of

life. Tell her she cannot imagine how desirous we are for her preservation in every good way and

hope she will be particular in her company. It is better to have none than bad. There is a

disposition in all the children to have a good deal of company and go aboard, but we feel it to be

our duty to restrain them and keep them with us and judge of their company.

I wrote this several days ago and I now am about to finish it. Susan is now middling well

again.

We all felt sorry to hear of Hiram's death and should like to hear what was his sickness and

why he left his father.

Mary and Ellen say that they should like to hear from thee on what terms thee would be likely

to gain possession of the property; whether it will be given to the Children as apart of the Legacy,

that is if land will be given instead of money, that is if Joseph and M.E. and Henry living with

thine will go in for the land and then thee have to pay the rest of the aims; and on what terms

thee can get possession of it, and then they can better say what they will do. Thee had best write

us word soon and in the mean time they will hold on. I am writing for them but do not wish to

interfere in their matters and I think thee had best let them know same, for if either of these men

should come they would like to be paid up. Money to them is desirable.

For altho' we have been industrious and saving we have not accumulated much besides a good

living and we are far on the senior list. As for my part I have now to try to get hold of the light

and of the day as my health in considerably impaired. Ellen and Mary enjoy pretty good health.

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Have you had the cholera there this summer? It has been very bad in many places. It has not

been much here but we have had many cases of dysentery of a malignant type and it still prevails

to an alarming extent.

The last time I heard from Brother Isaac and children they were well except Isaac's face is still

getting worse. Jacob Scott is married to Rebecca Atkinson, daughter of Hannah Hussey as used

to be, they live in Waterford PA. I heard from Samuel Scott a few days ago. They were well but

making but a poor living. I do believe that if a man don't stick to honesty he will never “thrive”.

Hiram encourage the children to invest their money in property that will make you all a home.

How is it can the children get their money before they come of age, or can the guardian invest it

as he may think best? Write soon and tell all about it.

So I must conclude with all our loves to you all as if named.

Thine as ever, Ann. S. Livingston

Letter 6

Date: 12 September 1850

From: Ann (Scott) Livingston; Baltimore, Maryland

To: Joseph John Boyd; Mendon, Mercer County, Ohio

9 Mo. 12th 1850

My Dear Children, Joseph and Mary E. and Henry Boyd.

Your letter dated the 6th was recd this morning and I have no language to convey to you the

sorrow that we feel for the sad bereavement that you have met in the death of your dear Father.[ ]6

The distance is so great that it is not in the power of either of your aunts to come to you. We

feel desirous to know if thy Father was sensible to the last and if he expressed anything

concerning your future movements in regard to living and what your means are. We think it is

best for you to consult your guardian and perhaps he can assist you in arranging your matters.

We are entirely ignorant of your circumstances or how you wish to fix for the winter. We

should like to have you with us but do not know how we can come at it, as the distance is so

great. If Mary E. could be got to us for a while it would be to her advantage and Susan C and

Martha Ann say they would be so glad if she could come. Is there any good neighbors there that

is willing to assist you. I feel at a loss what to say, but wish you to write to us and tell us all what

you wish to do. I want you to write to me very soon as we feel so desirous for you to get in some

6 Hiram Boyd died of cholera during the late summer of 1850. He was working as a cooper (barrel maker) for a flour mill at Mendon, Ohio. He was buried on the banks of the St. Mary's River with other cholera victims. It is sadly ironic that Ann Livingston asks about a cholera epidemic in Letter 4.

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way that you can be comfortable.

Oh my dear children, how sincerely do we mourn your loss and more especially as you are

amongst strangers. Your Aunts are well so are your Sisters with much and great desires for your

preservation. I am your aunt, Ann S. Livingston

Turnover

I wish thee to write the direction of how your Uncle William directs his letters to you as I

should like to write to him. I will once more request thee to write soon and tell Mary Ellen to

write to her sisters. Aunt Ellen, Aunt Mary and Susan C. also Martha Ann join me in love to thy

Sister and dear little Henry Livingston. Do any merchants come to Baltimore from that place?

Let me know.

My dear Brothers and Sisters,

Though I am so far away from you I do deeply share with you the pain of losing a loving

parent. I only wish I was near you.

My dear brother write often and tell us you troubles. It is a very sweet thing to have a dear

friend to tell our troubles, which I know our dear Aunts are. I only wish you were here to share

our pleasures with but when I think of the many high mountains and wide rivers which separate

us I know it is impossible yet a while.

Dear Brothers and Sister do your best and leave the rest.

Write very soon. I do know thee would if thee know how anxious we are for your welfare. I

must bid you farewell with the hope of hearing soon from you.

Your affectionate sister, Susan C. Boyd

Letter 7

Date: 18 June 1854

From: Mary Ellen Boyd; Baltimore, Maryland

To: Joseph John Boyd; Marion County, Ohio

Baltimore,[7] June 18th/54

Dear Friends,

It is with great solemnity that I write you these few lines to inform you of the departure from

this world of sorrow our dearly beloved Aunt Mary who died on the evening of the fifteenth after

7 After many requests, Mary Ellen Boyd was able to join her sisters in Maryland under their aunt's care.

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her long illness; one of the most intense suffering.

I was at Sandy Spring at the time the change took place. At the time I left her she was as well

as usual and continued so until about three days previous to her death. She was taken with a

cough which annoyed her very much but Aunt Ellie thought she had taken a little cold and would

be relieved in a few days. She was relieved of her cough and appeared better. She was only

confined to her bed one day and on the same evening about 9 o'clock she breathed her last

without a struggle. She closed her eyes as if in sleep and passed quietly and peacefully away and is

now in that happy world where sorrow, suffering and trouble never enters. There was a sweet

smile on her countenance which told of the happy flight her spirit had taken. Could I only feel

that, I could and was as well prepared to go with what she has, with that same composed state of

mind, I should feel happy.

Aunt Mary was very sensible to the very last but could not utter a word. She looked around so

anxiously and wishfully. Aunt Ellie went to her and asked her if she wanted to talk. She gave her

to understand by a motion of her that she did. She then closed her eyes and expired. Aunt Ellie

sent for us but we did not get here till after her death. I regretted very much that I was not with

her. Everything was done that could be done, it appears she found relief in nothing but death.

There is a vacancy in her room which never can be filled. There is her old armed chair but her

thin and delicate form and angelic face and peaceful countenance is not to be seen only by

imagination. I cannot bear to go in her room for ever since I have been here she has occupied that

room and I have been with her so much. It was always a pleasure to me to wait on her. She

appeared so grateful and bore he affliction with so much fortitude. We all feel her lose very much

but I think it is wicked for us to mourn for her and wish for her to have remained with us in her

suffering condition, as she has been for a year and more.

I am so sorry you did not get to see her. It would have been such a satisfaction to her.

Whenever we would speak of your coming on, her eyes would fill with tears. I beg of you all to

come on this summer and see Aunt Ellie. She is sweeter and more lovely than ever. I love her so

dearly. She is a general favorite, all who know her love her. She sends much love to you all and

wants you to come and see her.

I am extremely sorry to think of Aunt Isabell's ill health but hope she may be better. If she is

not any better please let me know and I will make up my mind to go home. I do not feel now as if

I was needed here for anything except my company which is of not much account.

Please write very soon and often to your sisters and niece. Give my love to all inquiring

friends. Sue and Pattie are well and desire much love to you all. Aunt Ellie is a well as usual but

feels the loss of a dear sister. Sue says she thanks me for the letter you wrote her. She says you

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only wrote to learn my address while I was away. Tell Brother Harry to write to his affectionate

Sister Ell. I want Uncle Westley to keep that house they have been telling me about for I

anticipate much pleasure when I return. I want to know what Uncle says about coming after “this

child”. You must all write very soon and be obliging.

I am your sincere Sister and Niece, Ella Boyd

To her Aunt, Uncle, Brothers and Cousins

PS. I want Cassius and Harry to have a good watermelon patch and when they get ripe, I will

go home assist you to eat them. Please let me know how the prospect and how soon they will be

ripe. Joe, I will direct the letter to you. Please send it down home the first opportunity and oblige

your sister E.

Letter 8

Date: Undated

From: Joseph John Boyd; Marion, Ohio

To: Martha Ann Boyd; Baltimore, Maryland

To Pattie,[ ]8

I, this evening, grasp an old time honored goose quill. I will endeavor to edify you with old

literary past eloquent and sublime production. We have been so very busy taking inventory of

goods. I received new goods, that it has heretofore been numbered far away among the

impossibilities for your Brother Joe to write or answer letters. "But alas!" the busy time has gone

up. The rainy season has set in, the mud is stirred up, and customers are in great demand but

none in market. Therefore I very deliberately take my seat and very respectfully make my bow,

stir up my ideas for the identically purpose of answering Pattie's letter. At the same time I

sincerely hope the above apologies will receive the greatest merit they deserve and knowing that

you are of a forgiving nature. I hope you will forgive your "Uncle Fuller" for not writing sooner.

Well Pattie, I started that letter for New York next day. Just inform the individual that sent it

of the fact. It may have been your own dear self for ought I know. If it was, please inform your

inquirer. I recd a letter from Sue a few days since. They were all well at that time. Sue give me

"Hail Columbia Happy Land" for not writing to you oftener. She said she knew by experience

how very acceptable letters are to a boarding school girl. She talks as if she knew all about it, don't

she? Ha! She had a great long rigmarole to tell me about a beau that happened to call in

8 Martha Ann Boyd was known as "Pattie" by other family members. How she got this nickname is unknown.

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accidentally on purpose. That comprised the main subject of her letter. And then after all the fuss

tried to turn it off by saying he called to see another person.

Ella spent a week here to a very good advantage, I thought, for she had a beau to take her to

church every night and Sunday night too. Wasn't he a cleaver young man? I will leave you all the

pleasure of the surprise by keeping who that beau was, as one losses all the pleasure by being told.

A very great excitement has prevailed here at a protracted meeting of the Methodist. There

have been over one hundred and fifty joined that branch of the church. Man by nature, habit, and

education is an excitable being or creature and it was well ordered that he should be so. For

without this attribute of his character, he would be a mere automation - a machine – moveable

merely as it is moved. Hence it is to be hoped that this great religious excitement has been the

means of doing great good.

I heard from home a day or two ago. They were all well and in a prospering condition. Ell

especially. She was preparing to make sugar. I hope she will have “prodigious” nice time of it. She

has her own [?] at Uncle's. There is some smallpox here. It has not spread much yet.

Well Pat, how do you get along with your studies and with the beau or don't you have any of

the latter? It is now ten o'clock and I must bring this nonsensical harangue to a focus. It being

about time to retire to my downy couch and don't forget to write me a regular down easterner

immediately.

In the meantime

May success attend you through life,

Over roses may you footsteps move,

Your smiles be ever smiles of love,

Is the wish of your Brother "Joe."

Yours Truly Affectionate, Brother Joe

P.S. I hope those small sheets of paper are all used up by this time. Write very soon a long

letter.

Letter 9

Date: 17 December 1854

From: Joseph John Boyd; Marion County, Ohio

To: Martha Ann Boyd; Baltimore, Maryland

15

Sunday Night, Dec. 17/54[ ]9

Farmer's Cash Store[ ]10

My Dear Patty,

It is with the greatest pleasure imaginable, that I grasp an innocent goose quill for the express

purpose of addressing my youngest sister, Patty. One that is near and dear to me by the ties of

nature. I received your very kind letter a few days since and a very acceptable one it was "my

darling Patty". My heart was filled with gladness, and deeming this a very suitable time to recall

to my mind's eye the bright realities of the never ending tide of the mighty past, therefore I

proceed to answer your last time honored communication.

I would have written to you before this time had I known your address. I was very much

delighted to hear that Aunt was so kind as to send you to school and hope that you will improve

your time to the best of your ability. And by so doing you will reap a lasting benefit there from.

Remember that those pleasant school days will not always last. That you are growing into

womanhood and by and by your school days will be o'er. Remember that an education will be

very essential to you in after life. I was glad to hear you had formed a resolution not to dwell on

home scenes and hope that you may continue so in that determination.

Well Patty, how do you get along with your studies? What are you studying, and tell me how

long you are going to stay there? It really is too bad that I have not spent that long wished for

week with Ella yet, but expect to in the course of time. The facts in the case is this, we have been

so busy in the store that I could not leave very well. She wrote a letter to me the other day and

gave me "Hark from the Tombs" for not coming home oftener. I told her I would come at some

convenient season. A.P.J.[ ]11 went down that way today. He said he was going to Middletown.

Please give my best respects to that young lady that sent her best regards to me. The god of

slumber invites me to retire to the downy couch and rest while all nature is hushed into midnight

silence. I will finish this tomorrow. Good night Patty.

Monday Night

I have again grasped a time honored goose quill for the express purpose of finishing your

letter. Well Patty, this day has passed off with a moderate trade. A.P. has returned, the folks are

all well as usual. Ell sent me a package of cakes. Just like some of her tricks. Please let me know

whether those small sheets of paper are all gone. If so I would advise you not to purchase any

more. Please write as soon as you get this, if not sooner, and overlook all slips of the pen and

9 A pressed red flower was enclosed in this letter. 10 Joseph worked as a clerk in several general stores. He later managed and was a part-owner in a store in Marion, Ohio. 11 A.P.J. was Ami P. Johnson who married Mary Ellen Boyd in 1855.

16

composition. So I conclude this great nonsensical harangue with my love to your own dear self

Patty.

I remain as ever you affectionate brother, Joe J. Boyd, to his sister Patty.

Letter 10

Date 13 January 1855

From: Joseph John Boyd; Marion County, Ohio

To: Martha Ann Boyd; Baltimore, Maryland

Sabbath Afternoon

Jan. 13th/55

My Darling Pattie,

Time has fled and left me without answering your very kind and acceptable effusion that I had

the pleasure of receiving a few weeks since.

Well Pat, I will give you the proceedings of this day. I arose this morning at 8 1/2 o'clock (you

know sitting up all night will make a person sleepy) a natural consequence. Put on my store

clothes. Went to church, heard a very able discourse. You will find the foundation of the remarks

in the fifth chapter of the Ephesians from the 22nd to 33rd verses inclusively. After church,

retired to the emporium, thence to dinner, ate heartily, returned to the store. At 2 o'clock p.m.

followed the remains of one of the married circle to the cold and silent grave. Took the fresh air

which was most too cold for comforts sake, got very cold indeed.

Since I last wrote, I have been passing the time off as pleasant as a basket of chips. May it

please your honor, I have been to see Ella. Stayed four days during my visit. The pigs didn't

squeal cause 'dey' had gone to 'der' nests. 'De' birds didn't sing cause 'dey' had gone to 'der federy'

nests. 'De' stars didn't shine cause it 'neber' rained harder since 'de' deluge. But 'dat' wasn't all, it

was enormous muddy, couldn't go anyplace or anyplace else. Hope I'll have nice weather next

time I go home, don't you?

I have ample reason to believe you had a pleasant time during your visit home. Supper is ready

and I must go. Wish you were here to take tea with me.

Have eaten supper, been to church and have returned with the intention of finishing your

letter. There was one grand ball here in Apollo Hall on the 8th January. Heres who didn't go

cause he couldn't dance. Good deal better off than if I had went. A great excitement prevailed on

Monday last, by the cry of fire which originated in a frame dwelling near the old Methodist

church. Put out without any great loss. Was at a social party at Mr. Bucks last Wednesday, had

17

mighty nice time especially about going home time. The rain came pattering down, dark as Jehu

last Friday night. Set up awake all night. Turn a page.

Pattie, give me a report of your character papers so that I can tell how good a girl you have

been. The grand topics of the day here is know-nothingism, Russianism, and good old hard-

timeism in general.

I received a letter from Sue the other day. She said Cousin Wilson Scott was there at that time

but intended to return the next day. It is getting about time to retire to the strong arms of

Morpheus and sweetly sleep till daylight doth appear. Excuse all mistakes and write soon, but

don't write on one of those small sheets if you please.

My love is with you, good night. I remain they affectionate brother, Joe.

Letter 11

Date 29 April 1855

From: Joseph John Boyd; Marion County, Ohio

To: Martha Ann Boyd; Baltimore, Maryland

Marion 0. Apr. 29th 1855

Dear Sister Pattie,[ ]12

I take my seat this pleasant morning within the prison walls of this emporium while "Old Sol"

is pouring forth his golden and warming ray of light and warmth on the general soil of old

Marion and vicinity. The returning of spring has made great changes. Changes that are visible on

every living object. She acts like a magic charm on the forest, the orchards and the fields. By

dressing them in verdure of living free, all nature seems to be animated with life and vigor.

Pleasant is the spring of the year. How thankful we should all be for being placed under such an

all protecting and wise Providence.

"Well Pat," your appealing, entreating, exhorting, commanding, heart and soul stirring

effusion of the 5th inst. came duly to hand, was perused with occasionally a laugh and a longing

desire to behold your lovely visage, also that of the girls that interceded in your behalf to behold

the light of their countenance. I fancy I can almost see those jet black eyes and lovely curls. I have

heard Ella so often speak about.

Tell that precious little bright eyed angel that I am waiting for that letter that she promised to

write in the course of time. Giver her my regards. My compliments to little Mary. Dear little

12 Written in pencil, "My Sweet, precious, darling Brother Joe's letter"

18

Mary. I love thee oh! for they loving name, for I've a little Sister got the same. Little Molly, from

thy Brother Joe. My dear sister Blanche, I will think about having a daguerreotype taken. My

regards to your own dear self. I will write tomorrow "Jack". Send my love to Virginia L. Holland,

tell her I will write to her between this and last week. Your Bro. "Joe". As much of this is

nonsense perhaps as you want.

If you please, we will change the scene. I hope you had a pleasant time while at Cousin

Wilson Scott's.

I was very happily surprised one week ago last Wednesday by seeing some of our cousins. That

day noon as I was passing out to dinner, three ladies passed me coming in, not knowing them, I

merely passed the time of day. Before I had proceeded far, I was called back by Jake telling me

those ladies wished to see me. I returned, soon found out who they were. Went to the livery

stable, engaged a two horse rig. During which time the deacon A.P.J. took them to the hotel, got

their dinners. By that time I was in readiness. We all jumped in the carriage. We were soon

making our way speedily to Uncle Wesley's in the course of one and half hours. Very pleasant

riding. We drove up to the house. Aunt was sitting on the porch while Ella was engaged in other

domestic affairs.

I requested Aunt to tell Ella to make her appearance which was done in short meter. It

astonished her somewhat when she beheld I was there with a carriage load of gals. She had not

reached the carriage until she recognized them to be Hannah and Sarah Talbott and Miss Ruth

Adrin. I enjoyed myself fine that afternoon. I stayed until after tea, when to my sorrow I had to

leave the company and return to town. I did not see them until the following Saturday when I

met them at the depot. I was with them about one hour when I seen them safely seated in the

cars. I bid them goodbye and took my leave; only two were cousins. I like them very much. They

appeared to be such fine girls.

The next day was Sunday. I saddled up "Bill" and rode down home. Ella had her pacing pony

rigged up. We rode down to Middletown to meeting where we heard an excellent sermon. After

preaching, returned to Uncle's. Took dinner. Stayed till nearly sundown. Started for "Old"

Marion. Harry is going to select school in Middletown. He likes to go first rate. We intend to

keep him to school for a while. At church going time today, I went to hear the teaching of the

Rev. J.S. Shepherd which were very good.

O Yes! A.P. Johnson went down to Uncle Wesley's today again. There appears to be an

attraction down that way.

O.K. Pattie, you will see my likeness in the course of time, don't get discouraged. If you I

please, my intellectual warehouse is about exhausted. I shall have to stop. My love is with you and

19

all inquiring friends.

I remain as ever you Brother, Joe J. Boyd

Monday noon

A.P. Johnson has just returned from Uncle's. They are all well. A.P. regards to you and he is

all O.K.

Now Pattie, write soon if you please. I live to get letters from you, My Darling Pattie, Joe J.

Boyd

Letter 12

Date: 9 May 1856

From: Joseph John Boyd; Marion, Ohio

To: Martha Ann Boyd; Baltimore, Maryland

Remember May 9th, 1856

Dear Pattie,

This being an important period in the era of my life and after three days of rain, mud, circuses,

menageries, aristocratical coliseums, Marion's broadway swells. The weather has become settled

and "Old Sol" is pouring forth his rays of warmth upon the general soil of Marion. You will

perceive by this epistle that I have not as yet emigrated, but if I should go,

I intend to keep bachelors hall and there,

I will have no wife to scold,

No child to bawl,

But I can enjoy the pleasures,

Of the Bachelors Hall.

We are all well. My love is with you. Write soon. Your brother, Joe J. Boyd

P.S. I will write more next time. My excuse is the press of business today. Write a long letter.

Letter 13

Date: 2 October 1856

From: Joseph John Boyd; Marion, Ohio

To: Martha Ann Boyd; Baltimore, Maryland

20

21

Marion O., Oct. 2nd 1856

My Dear Sister Patty,

With pleasure this evening I seat myself to pen a few lines to you of plainness, not such as I

would wish to place before you for inspection but such as I am capable of giving you in haste.

Your long looked for letter was received with all thanksgiving that can be bestowed by a dear

brother. Ten thousand thanks to you for it, and sincerely hope you will continue to do.

Had a splendid time over at Cardington last Saturday. I was in company with "Jessie's Glee

Club" which is composed of thirteen ladies and three gentlemen (myself included). We not only

had the mottoes of the spirit of 76 revival in 56[ ]13 , but we had the action there itself. We arrived

there about eleven o'clock. The Freeminters threw open there houses and bid all Freeminters to

partake of the bountiful repast that was prepared for the thousands that were convened for to hear

the principles of the great Republican Party advocated. Got back from there about 9 o'clock.

Halted at the court house, gave the Marionites two songs then returned to their respective homes

and I to my virtuous couch. Tell Ella that Fillminers are as scarce as hen teeth and they are worth

99 cts a sight. Hard seeing there at any price; only two that I know of in the county.

I have just returned from church where there were a couple married; just thought I would go

and learn how. Have had quite a time this week. Was at a party at Lizzie William's Monday

night. Tuesday night sit up with a sick man all night. Wednesday was at the sowing society circle,

and tonight went to the wedding. Rev. Mr. Newton and Miss Bell were the couple. Tell Ella that

Henry Moore and Miss Emma Farnum are tied together, so is one of Wm. Johuse's girls. Tell

her if she don't look out, the first thing she don't know I might be stepping off some of these very

fine days.

It keeps me and my clerks right busy now tending to the business. So busy that I can scarcely

get time to write to you. I was glad to hear that Ella was cheerful and lively and more contented

that when she first came. My prayer is that she may ever continue so.

I see you have commenced building air castles about my coming. It will be a happy meeting

after being from each other so long. I should like to be with you very much at your yearly

meeting, but circumstances will not permit me to. You wished to know what has become of

Harry. I would just say for your benefit that if you could take a bird's eye view of Uncle's farm,

you would see six feet of him walking on “terra firma”. I have not been down home but once since

Ella left, but expect to go soon. We had quite a snow storm here Wednesday morning. There was

snow enough to have a game of snowballing. Tell Ella if my memory serves me right she owes me

13 The presidential election of 1856 was only a month away. This was the first election where the Republicans fielded a candidate.

22

a letter. Tell Sue a line would be very acceptable to this child.

Your affectionate Brother, Joe

This was did in haste, Do better next time, write soon.

Letter 14

Date: 27 November 1856

From: Joseph John Boyd; Marion, Ohio

To: Martha Ann Boyd; Baltimore, Maryland

Marion, Ohio, Nov. 27 1856

My Dear Sister Pattie,

Your very kind letter with the subscription on the envelope informing me of the awful fact

that old Fremont[14] is defeated which fact I was in ignorance of. Old Fremont is not known in

Ohio. The Fremont we blue black Republicans in Ohio know, is about 45 years old. Hooray for

the old fossil Bachelor. I mean tin cent Jimmy.[15]

Anyhow, you sent your love to my duck E.G.G.[16] I will just inform you are mistaken in my

Duck's name. So you will have to guess again.

I think you are very economical of your time, especially when writing to your humble servant

J.J.B. Hereafter, I hope you will be more liberal. You wished to know how I was since the

election. I will just tell you, I enjoy myself.

You appear to let your intellectual warehouse to be troubled considerably about my taking a

better half. To tell the truth, Pattie, I will expect be married on the 32nd day of November. Don't

tell anyone of my arraignment, if you please, and I will take them by surprise when I come. I hope

this will be satisfactory to you.

You may look for me in the case of time. Rowlander asked me if I was writing a love letter,

and told me to send his love. Jake says as to his being a good boy, the only to tell is to try him.

Aunt's health is very poor at this time. Harry was up to town yesterday to get his certificate for

teaching. He will commence his school Dec. 1, 1856.

Give my love to all the good people generally. Finally, I suppose you thought the political

excitement had subsided, that I would be like the old woman's shoe, down at the heel. Quite the

14 John Fremont was the Republican candidate for president. he lost the election 114 electoral votes to 174 for Buchanan. 15 Tin cent Jimmy was President-elect James Buchanan (1856-1861). 16 E.G.G. was Eveline Gill Gorton, Joseph’s future wife.

23

contrary with me. We have as a substitute for that large weddings. I attended one of B.H.

Williams last night; Mr. Jerolomen and Miss Lizzie Williams. Tell Ella I had the pleasure and

honor of receiving delicious sweet kiss from the bride. There were over two hundred invited; the

largest party ever was in Marion. On Thanksgiving Day Eve, Nov. 20th, I had the pleasure of

welcoming two loving hearts joined in the holy bonds of matrimony. Tonight there is to be

another one in the Methodist church which will be very largely attended as a matter of course.

James H Andersen of Marion marries a lady of thirty thousand dollars of Upper Sandeck.

And oblige your humble servant, I remain yours truly, John Stebbins

I spose you have heard tell of the Stebbens family.

P.S. I just rec'd a letter from Hannah M. Talbot bringing the sad news of the death of cousin

John Talbot’s wife, the rest of the folks are well. Answer this immediately if you please, at length.

I just rec'd a letter from Ella which I will answer in due time.

Letter 15

Date: 25 January 1857

From: Joseph John Boyd; Marion, Ohio

To: Martha Ann Boyd; Baltimore, Maryland

Marion Ohio, Jan'y 25th/57. Sunday night.

Dear Sister Pattie,

Long before your quiet is interrupted by the appearance of this shapeless epistle or effusion of

spasmodical nonsense, I will have become a victim to your justly provoked censure; that you

poured out upon me for not writing. I can censure you with the same identical fault, so you are in

my debt yet. But when I tell you of the industrious situation in which “Young America” has been

placed in (haven't hardly had time to see my duck - in fact have only seen her twice since my

return). I hope your human sympathy will be aroused and that you will pardon the censured

victim for not being more punctual in corresponding.

Another apology to be digested teeth and toenails - when you consider the condition in which

"Old Neptune" the relentless god of the storm has placed this country in. It snows here every

other day, first enough to keep the sleighing “tip top”. Last Thursday morning the mercury fell to

20 degrees below 0; 3 degree at noon. Right rude don't you think so Pattie? (Practical illustrations

of cold weather, the old whiskeys had to toast their whisky on a fork, before they were able to

imbibe a sufficient quantity to have any effect on their constitution).

24

I suppose you are aware ere this reaches you that (“Young America”) has taken command of

the old ship (Farmers Cash Emporium). But we fancy through the profound shades of the future

we can discern a recompense in the way, lining our pockets with some of the “ready John Davis”.

We finished taking account of stocks last Thursday and have fitted things up in good shape and

have been paying all attentions to the dear people. By close application to business, with honesty

in view, and holding economy by the reins, we do expect to receive a goodly share of public

patronage. What think you of the arrangement Pattie?

With your permission, we will change the subject to something that I relate to you with

reluctance. Death has again entered Uncle's house and taken for his victim our aged

Grandmother. She was taken sick at Uncle's house last Sunday after Aunt's funeral. She said she

would never get well. Little did we think last Sabbath we would be called to follow the remains of

another relative to the grave so soon. But death comes as it were, when least expected. Therefore,

we should all be prepared to meet him as we believe our dear Aunt did, a welcome messenger,

and not as the king of terrors. She died Jan'y 24th 1857. Grandfather died Dec. 18th 1846 - aged

80 years. I hope we will not be called out soon again on such an occasion.

Dear Pattie, rec'd your very welcome letter which was written when time had run its course. I

have no doubt you miss Ella and I very much. I “know” I do you. Should like to have been there

when Cousin Oliver was up to Baltimore. How do you succeed in learning to dance? (Have you

been ”up" the hill since your return? Surely that is a leading question?) I have answered it in the

beginning of this letter. That young gent and I have fought a dual. Distance 100 paces - seconds

none – “weapons corn stalks and pigs propellers”. Tell Mary I will have the church built, when

Ned turns to be a priest. I shouldn't think that would agree well with his “know nothingism”.

Its a tremendous pity your ideas run so fast you could not catch them. Ella is well as could be

expected under circumstances. Says she will write you this week if they all keep well. Harry has

been complaining with a sore throat last week; is better, and will resume his school tomorrow.

Uncle and Cash is well. Tell pensive Albert G.G. I forgot to kiss his guardian for him Sunday,

but will do it next time I see her. Tell him to kiss Auntie for me, and hug cat. Sally for himself.

Some Snooks - but the master is about half sick and it is getting late, therefore I must retire to

my room. I will add some more in the morning, so good night. My nose is my best friend now a

days.

Tuesday Morning, Jan'y 28th 1857

Had not time to write yesterday, but will finish this morning. Had a spell of weather last

night, rained all night. Snow has vanished like a dream. I think you folks have not been prompt

in answering my letters.

25

Ella is very anxious for you all to come out here in the spring. Tell Auntie I have the refusal of

a house for her, the house we were talking about. It is on Center St. about 2 squares from main in

a very pleasant neighborhood and on the nicest street in town. I had a notion to rent it without

writing to you but Ella thought I had better write you about it. The rent will about $125.00 per

year. There is two parlors with folding doors between them. If you are still in the notion of

coming, remit an answer on the reception of this, so that I will know what to do. Hope the reply

will be in the affirmative. I must close with my love to all. My respects to the boys generally. Tell

Susey to write soon or else I will get mad and write to her.

Your brother, Joe J. Boyd

Letter 16

Undated but probably in 1862[ ]17

From: Harry Livingston Boyd; Army of the Potomac, Maryland

To: Joseph John Boyd and family members; Marion, Ohio

Camp near Lunlytown, D.C.[ ]18

Dear Brother, Sisters, SC,

I have rec'd several letters from home since we left Hanson's Landing, but since then we have

been kept so constantly on the move that I have had no opportunity, time, nor materials for

writing. This short note must pay up all arrears. Though quite unwell when we left the Landing,

I have managed to drag along with the rest until we came to this place. The excitement being

now over, we are now in permanent camp of 5 or 6 weeks at least. I feel completely played out.

You must excuse me from any detailed account of what has transpired with no note the last

months. Suffice it to say that we have had a hard time of it during the five weeks we have been on

the march. We have had no change of clothing and have slept habitually without shelter. We are

here now a dirty, squalid, sickly set of men. We are four miles from Washington. Will get new

clothes in a day or two.

Instead of being discouraged by the present state of affairs here, every sensible man thinks, aye

17 This letter is probably dated 1862 which is when General McClellan was finally relieved of duty. 18 Harry served for three years in the Army of the Potomac as a sergeant, first lieutenant, and quartermaster. he was involved in the major battles of Gettysburg, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Second Bull Run, Wildersness, and Spottsylvania. Harry was never wounded.

26

knows, that everything is working “just right.” McClellan,[ ]19 the “only man who has shown

himself capable of command in the Army of the Potomac” is again in command and I hope to

God he will remain in command until the rebellion is crushed. I am sorry that Pattie has such a

bad opinion of "Mac". He is this day worth more to the government than an “army” of such men

as “Pope”. I should like to talk to you about how he, "Mac", has been treated when I get home. I

should feel like bayoneting any one who would speak illy of “the favorite” general in the Army,

for such he is.

When will government learn to keep the right men in the place. I had a letter from Ned

Ralmin yesterday, they are well. Ned has formed a correct opinion of "Little Mac". When I get

some clean clothes and get paid off, I will try and go to see them. Must close, Love to all.

Thy Brother, Harry

Letter 17

Date: 7 May 1863

From: Harry Livingston Boyd; Army of the Potomac, Maryland

To: Joseph John Boyd; Marion, Ohio

May 7, 1863

Dear Brother:

The Army of the Potomac has crossed the Rappahannock, fought a great battle[ ]20 and again

re-crossed the River, and [?] is again safe for a few days. The character of the movement and its

general results you know more about than I do, as you have seen the papers. It may be, however,

of some interest to you, to know what part the Gibraltar Brigade of Antietam, enacted in this

drama.

We were under fire, during the whole of the three days fighting, but were not actually engaged

until Sunday morning, May 3rd. And then but 3 Regrs. of the Brigade, went in Vir.; the 4th

Ohio, 14 Ind. and 7th Vir. We were drawn up in "line of battle" in front of a strip of thick brushy

woods, 3/4 miles in breadth about sunrise. As soon as the line was formed, Col. Carroll, our brig

Commander, rode along the front, telling his men that as "soon as the Enemy made his

19 General George B. McClellan was twice the head of all Union forces during the Civil War. A brilliant engineer and highly capable organizer, he wasn't a battle commander as he was overly cautious. President Lincoln once wrote, "General, may I borrow your army if you are not going to use it?" McClellan was extremely popular with his troops. 20 Chancellorsville.

27

appearance in the edge of woods he would charge them".

We had stood but a few minutes in that position, when the command was given "Forward".

We advanced in splendid style. When we had advanced, a few paces in the woods, we came

suddenly upon a "Brigade of Gray Backs". Drawn up in line, ready to receive us. The firing

commenced immediately -- and was described by those in the rear as terrific. At our Second

Volley they began to fall back -- the command was given to Charge -- then commenced a

running fight. We skeedaddled them out of the woods at a double-quick step.

Here we were commanded to halt, but the boys were so eager in the chase that they would not

halt until they had charged upon and retaken the Earthworks, that had been so ingloriously

abandoned by the 11th Army Corps on the day previous (8th), and held them 15 minutes under a

terrific crossfire of Grays to [?] - We then fell back under cover of the woods, and quietly

submitted to a [?] shelling for about one half an hour.

By this time the Enemy had formed another line, and charged us. We again repulsed them

handsomely, and again charged and took the Earthworks as we were again under a crossfire of

Grays to [?]. We again fell into the woods. Until regularly relieved. - About 400 of our regiment

went into the fight: of whom 87 were killed or wounded. The Rebels loss must have been three or

four times as great. -- The ground we fought over was literally covered with dead and dying

Greybacks. - The number of prisoners that came through the lines while fighting would fall short

of 500. We also relieved the regiments of New York [?], who had been taken prisoners a short

time before.

If we had had a good support, we could have captured a rebel battery, and a brigade of

infantry. But as we were sent in merely to hold the Enemy in check at that place, no support was

sent out. It proved to be quite an important affair. Prisoners that we took said they never saw men

go in so before. We were highly complimented by Gen. Hooker. I can give no details at present.

Yours in Haste, H.L. Boyd

Letter 18

22 May 1864

From: Joseph John Boyd; Fort Ellsworth, Virginia

To: Eveline (Gorton) Boyd and friends; Marion, Ohio

Fort Ellsworth, May 22nd/64

Near Alexandria Va.

28

My Dear Wife and Friends,

When I last wrote you we were encamped near Martinsburg Va. Received orders to pack

knapsacks and take the cars for Washington. Left Martinsburg at 2 p.m. Took passage on top the

cars, passed through some very fine country between there and Harper's Ferry. The wildest

country along the Rate Road we have came across. Reached Harper's Ferry 5 o'clock p.m. Cross

the Potomac in a ferry boat (the bridge not being finished). We were the first company across the

river.

After landing Beemer, Carter and Boyd selected a ledge of rock, had bread and butter and

milk and cheese after which went down to the company. The cooks where preparing supper for

the company. Having 1/2 hours time, we concluded we would ascent the mountain as high as we

could. After considerable puffing and blowing and the sweat rolling off us in great drops, we

reached the highest ledge of rocks opposite the ferry. On this rock we found several soldier's

names engraved on the rock. Had a splendid view of the town. We were close to Old John

Brown's Cave. Had dark not come so soon, we would have tried to find it.

At dusk we commenced a retrograde movement. Had good luck in getting down, happened to

reach the foot of the mountain at the spot we started up. Strapped knapsacks, marched forward

about a mile, climbed up the side of the mountain. Spread blanket, couldn't sleep on account of

sliding down the hill.

Reveille sounded in the morning at five o'clock. Had a good wash, had coffee and potatoes

and hardtack and meat for breakfast. After breakfast about 20 of us started for the fortification on

the Maryland Heights. After winding around the mountain for about two miles finally reached

the desired spot. On the top of these heights is planted a 100 Passot Gun and three companies of

men. They command the Shenandoah Valley and Harper's Ferry and also the Virginia side of the

Potomac River.

The most beautiful scenery I ever seen was on the top of these heights. We could look as far as

the eye could reach. Up the Cumberland Valley and the rich and fertile Shenandoah Valley on

the Virginia side of the river the mountains rise in majestic grandeur. (I think they are called the

Blue Ridge) After taking a view on the height our regiment rec'd orders to fall in. The flag was

wave for us, such a scattering of boys you never seen. Some double ducked it down the mountain

(Bad luck with my desk, the board fell and down went ink, paper and all. Paper being scarce,

could not afford to rewrite it.) Some of us took our time at the risk of paying fare to Washington.

When we reached the cars were pretty well tuckered out. Started again about 11 o'clock a.m.,

took passage again on the top of the cars. Passed through a beautiful country during the balance

of the day. Passed through point of rocks. Seen J. B. Dutter's Store, ask Auntie whether it was

29

the “veritable Quaker John” or not? Nothing of importance transpired aside from the scenery of

the country and the enthusiasm of the good people.

Reached Washington at 1 o'clock that night (Saturday morning). Were quartered at the

soldier's home on rest. Spread blankets, slept sound as a log until reveille sounded. Had roll call.

Went up to the capital, from there to restaurant. Had breakfast of beef steak, fried potatoes and

eggs, bread, butter and coffee; the best meal since leaving home. Felt first rate. From there went

to the Treasury Department and then to the President's house. Walked through a beautiful park,

took a rest. Started back to camp. Sit around in the hot sun until 11 a.m. Received orders to fall

in. Left Washington at 11 1/2 a.m. Marched up through the city out to the edge of it. Had rest

for 1/2 an hour, then started across the long bridge across the Potomac. This bridge is 1 1/4 miles

long. After were all over, filed to the right. Halted until the leader found out what forts we were

to go to. Marched to with two miles of this fort. The day being very hot and our knapsacks being

very heavy, the boys got very tired. Halted for the night, had a sweet night's rest.

Arose in the morning feeling fine. Had breakfast. I named the camp, “Camp in the Bush”.

Took up our line of march, went one mile. The regiment was divided into three divisions and

sent to three forts to do garrison duty. Company B and three others came to this fort. After

resting awhile went and selected quarters. Cleaned them up. Were messed off by the captain. We

have, I think, the best mess in the Company. Our mess is composed of Sergeant Lucas, Corporal

Sefner, Corporal Boyd, Thomas Monday, Ike Merchant, Wilson Peters, N. R. Lanenor, H. H.

Bain, S. R. Burfowers, Theodore Oakly, James Leoffee, Edgar Hawkins, H. S Beemers, J. D.

Stokes, Dave Carter, C. B. Bishop. Are well satisfied with the arrangement.

Seeing no site for any grub before late in the afternoon, Beemer, Carter, Stokes and myself

went to a boarding house. Ordered diner, had a good time. We have first rate quarters. Large

Sibley tents, boarded up 6 feet from the ground. The canvas is placed upon the top of the boards.

We have sixteen in a tent. Two in a bunk with stove in the center.

I have been very fortunate so far. I have not been on detail duty but once since I left home.

There were 12 men detailed form Company B this morning to work on the fortifications. H. B.

Beemers and D. Carter are on it. They work 8 hours a day. Corporal Sifner is in command of the

squad. Had company drill this morning (Monday) of 1 1/2 hours. Another detail was made for

fatigue duty to clean up around the fort.

We have no duty until 4 p.m. at which time we will have artillery drill. This fort is mounted

with 20 pieced of heavy artillery. This is a very nice place. The city of Washington is seven miles

from this place by R.R. and 12 miles by the road we came. We are 1 mile west of Alexandria City

and due south of Washington.

30

Mr. Olmstead was here on the 22nd. Stopped on his way from the front. Had a list of the

killed and wounded. William Gurley was wounded on the 5th and died on the 11th inst. Several

of the M. boys were wounded. Harry was all right when he left. Stokes came through Baltimore

on his way here. Stopped to see Sue. He says she looks first rate and expects to come out to see

you about the last of June. I shall make application in the course of a week or two for a furlough

to go to Baltimore. John said if I could not get to see them, they would come to see me if I was

stationed near here.

In and around Washington and Alexandria there is some fifty or sixty forts to garrison. The

old troops have nearly all been removed to the front. This country has been full of troops ever

since the war broke out. As we traveled out, we could see where they had been camped. Not a

fence to be seen except a few wire fences. We are about 2 1/2 miles from Camp Distribution, the

place where all the soldiers pass through on there way to the Army of the Potomac. We can see

the capital and Washington's Monument and a good portion of the city. Also the city of

Alexandria is in full view of our fort and a beautiful view of the Potomac River. The tide comes

up here about 7 and 8 o'clock in the evening. About a 1/4 of a mile from the fort is a very nice

stream of water. When the tide is down it is about waist deep. When the tide raised it is 8 to 10

feet deep. I have tried it yesterday and washed 2 towels, 1 pair of drawers, 1 shirt, 2 pr. socks.

If it was Sunday, I was on drill this afternoon at 1 1/2 o'clock p.m. drilled at for 1 hour. Have

nothing to do now but to do as I please until 4 1/2 p.m. at which time we will be drilled in heavy

artillery. We have some 20 odd pieces of artillery mounted on this fort.

Tell Father I have seen any amount of good wheat along through Virginia and Maryland and

the wheat is out in head. The season is fully 4 weeks farther advance here than at home, the sun

shines as hot here now as it does at home in June or July. Have a thundershower almost every day.

“We have a gay time” “Who wouldn't be a soldier for a hundred days".

Good Bye from your affectionate husband, J.J. Boyd

Letter 19

23 May 1864

From: Joseph John Boyd; Fort Ellsworth, Virginia

To: Eveline (Gorton) Boyd; Marion, Ohio

My Dear Wife, May 23rd, 1864

You cannot imagine how glad I was to receive your kind and affectionate letter. It the first

31

word I had from home since I left it on the 12th. Read yours on the 22nd (Sunday).

I have been well ever since I left home. Was glad to hear you were all well. Willis, bless his

soul, tell him I will be home in about one hundred days. How is the garden coming on. So thy

little black eyed boy Harry can tell about his father has “gone to war”. Bless his soul. Be careful he

does not fall into the well. I have been uneasy about it ever since I heard about Wheeler's boy

coming so near falling in their well.

We are having a fine time here and will be very apt to stay here until our time is out. You need

not be uneasy about me, I am getting along finely. Mr. Spaulding is well.

I want you get my Military Tactics out of my great overcoat and send it to me by mail. Tell

Pattie I will write to her as soon as I get some letter paper. Give her and Auntie my love and all

the rest of the friends. Tell Hiram he ought to be here, it would do him so much good. I believe

it would make a hearty man of him.

It is time for drill and I must close. Hoping these lines may find you all well. I send much love

to you and the children. Tell Mother I would like to step in for a few minutes and see her sitting

on her low chair smoking her pipe. Give her my love. How does father get along in the

warehouse? How does Isaac do? Tell him to be a good boy. Write soon and tell me how all the

folks are getting along. I must close with much love.

I remain your affectionate husband, J. J. Boyd

Letter 20

28 May 1864

From: Joseph John Boyd; Fort Ellsworth, Virginia

To: Martha Ann Boyd and Eleanor Boyd; Baltimore, Maryland

Fort Ellsworth

May 28th

Dear Sister and Auntie,

Cuz I am corporal of the guard today and having some leisure time between posting the

guards, I take advantage of it, “so here goes for better or for worse”. This is the first duty I have

been upon of any account excepting the regular drills. I have missed but one of them since I left

Home. So you see when we are stationed in such a place as we are in, the little office of corporal

is a very nice thing. I came upon guard with 18 men this morning at 7 o'clock. About all I have to

do is bring out the 1st, 2nd and 3rd relief and post them every two hours. The balance of the time

32

I occupy reading, writing, thinking, playing checkers or looking at some of the boys playing

euchre or seven up. You are aware that I do not play cards. The sergeant of the guards, corporal of

the guards and the guards are required to be at the guard house nearly all the time when acting in

the capacity of guards. We are good for 24 hours. The guards have 2 hours on and 4 off. Our

orders are very strict. We allow no solder to come into the fort unless we know he belongs to the

fort. No citizen is allowed to enter the gate unless he has a pass signed by the commandant of the

post or the Colonel of the regiment. No man is allowed to go near the guns or there is no

smoking inside the fort or go near the magazines. We have 20 pieces of heavy artillery in this fort,

so that if the Johnnies should make a raid at this place, they would be very sure to get the worst of

the bargain. Our position here commands the country for miles around. You can scarcely go 2

miles from this place in any direction without coming to a fort.

Fort Williams is a beautiful place near a very large seminary. Also the residence of Bishop

Johus's occupied for a hospital for the 136 regiment and the colonel's headquarters. This Bishop

Johus was a rebel and when our forces first occupied this part of the country he had a fine dinner

all prepared and on the table. He saw our men coming, he left his dinner and residence with all of

its costly furniture and splendid library to the possession of the government from which he

rebelled. Our troops partook of his well prepared meal and made themselves at home. Beemer has

gone up there today. I should have went with him or to Alexandria. Carter and Stokes went there

today. To get to go we have to get a pass signed by the commandant of these headquarters, and

the captain and officer of the day.

Since I wrote to Eva, we have moved outside the fort into very comfortable barracks and can

get along a great deal better than we could crowded up in the those Sibley tents. The captain's

house is in front of the barracks. The kitchen and dining are back of the barracks. We get good

light bread all the time and fresh beef twice a week, rice twice a week, potatoes every other day

and pork and beans the balance of the time.

[Rest of letter is missing.]

Letter 21

29 May 1864

From: Joseph John Boyd; Fort Ellsworth, Virginia

To: Unknown

Sunday, May 29th 1864

33

Relieved from guard this morning at 10 o'clock a.m. This being inspection we had to stand

guard until inspection was over. I did not sleep more than an hour altogether last night therefore

I feel a little dull. Seated in front of our window in the barracks, I am in a position to command a

splendid view of Washington City. Can see the Capital, the President's house and Washington's

Monument very distinctly. To the east 1 mile distant we have a full view of Alexandria. Winding

around it on the east is the broad Potomac, studded with her steamers and schooners, Monitors,

and innumerable numbers of smaller crafts.

I received a letter from Ned a day or two ago. He said if I could not get to go to their house,

they would come to see me before I go west. Harry is all right yet as far as I know. Well Pattie

how do you get along since I left. I should love dearly to see you and Auntie and my dear Wife

and bright eyed little Boys, God bless them all. Harry has been writing you a letter today; a

practical epistle. We are having a first rate time here. I think we will remain here for the 100 days.

The N.Y. Light artillery has left her for the front, 1700 strong. After they left, we moved out of

the fort and a company of light artillery of Penn. troops moved in.

For breakfast this morning we had fresh shad bread and butter, syrup and coffee. Sergeant

Lucas, Beemer, Carter, Stokes, Sefner and Corporal Boyd make up a fund to buy some little

luxuries for ourselves. We have good light bread, more than we can use in our mess.

It is now four o'clock and Beemer and I are going to Mrs. Martin's to get some milk for

supper, as we anticipate having bread and milk for supper. Give my best regards to John and

Harry and accept my love for yourselves.

Give this letter to Eva to read and oblige you affectionate Brother, J. J. Boyd

Direct to: Co. B, Reg N.G.O., Fort Ellsworth (Via) Alexandria, Va.

Letter 22

Date: 13 June 1864

From: Joseph John Boyd; Fort Ellsworth, Virginia

To: Eveline (Gorton) Boyd; Marion, Ohio

Fort Ellsworth, June 13th, 64

Fairfax Co. VA.

My Dear Wife,

Your very kind letter was received on the 2nd day of this month. Since which time, I have

written to you and Pattie and Father. As yet have not heard a word from one of you. I hope you

34

are well enough to write.

Since I last wrote you, the 4th Reg. O.V.I.[ ]21 have been in Washington. I obtained a furlough

and went up to see Harry. Had a first rate visit with Harry and the boys of the regt. Took supper

at Capt. Olmsteds. While in Washington I visited the Treasury Department. It is a very large and

fine building. Went to Capt. O. office to get him to identify me at the bank to draw some money

for William Fisher. He went with me to J. Cooke and Co. Got draft cashed. From there to the

Patent Office and Post Office. By this time I had to make tracts for the steamboat wharf. Arrived

at Ft. Ellsworth pretty well tired out.

Have had a very bad eye for a few days, but it is about well. For fear someone may have been

foolish enough to write home that I was wounded and you may become uneasy about me. I will

relieve you from all uneasiness on that score. On last Saturday, I was on regimental guard with

Corp. Sifner. To sleep half the night, had laid down to sleep by the side of the bunks. Had just

got into a dose when one of the boys on the top was fixing his blanket and accidentally pushed off

a billet of wood which struck me just above my right temple; a cut, a slight gash in by head. Just

enough to relive me from guard that night. It is getting along finely. I am going on picket

tonight. I can do whatever I please until that time.

We had a big scare here on last Friday night about 11 o'clock. One of our guards heard the

pickets from some of the outer forts firing. They discharged their guns, which alarmed the

garrisons. In less than 15 minutes we were all snugly posted on the parapets inside of the fort.

Watched about 2 hours. It proved to be a false alarm. Were allowed to go to quarters and sleep

until 3 o'clock at which time we were to man the fort. Stayed there until daylight.

On the next day we received orders that one of our companies were ordered inside the fort.

Unfortunately for us, we were obliged to leave our comfortable quarters for some miserable rat

holes. Last night we had a regular battle with the rats all night. They would jump on us, knock

them off, and they caper over the floor then up and at us again. They kept me awake about 1/2

the night.

Since the big scare the other night, we have rec'd orders to file out ever morning at three

o'clock and remain at our post until broad daylight. Then we take a full view of the country,

finding no enemy, return to quarters. It is reported that Mosby's Guerrillas[ ]22 are roving about

over the county about 8 or ten miles from here. Hence it becomes our duty to be very vigilant

especially about three o'c. and until daylight, the times they would be most likely to make a raid.

Their object is to obtain supplies. I think if he should make a flying visit here, he would get more

21 O.V.I. - Ohio Volunteer Infantry. 22 Colonel John Mosby was a Confederate calvary ranger whose band frequently attacked and disrupted Union supply lines in Virginia and Maryland.

35

than he expects. I have not the least idea that he would be so rash as to attempt a raid in through

these forts.

On yesterday, it being Sunday, a squad of us visited Fort Williams. It is only about 1/4 as large

as Ellsworth. From there we went to the hospital to see the sick from our company. They have a

very comfortable place and they are all getting along first rate. They are Capt. Brown, Wilson

Peters, C. D. Bishop, Jay Williams and John Ashbaugh. They will be discharged from there in a

few days; Peters and Bishop came over this morning. From there we went to Fairfax Seminary.

Received permission to pass to the top of the building which is up 9 flights of stairs. From it's top

we have the most prominent view of the surrounding country that can be obtained. You can view

the country miles and miles in every direction. It being Sunday, could not get permission to pass

through the hospital.

We have very stringent orders about passes. To get passes for more than one day, we have to

send it to Washington and get it endorsed by the Provost Marshall. So you see my chance for

getting a pass to visit Baltimore. I think I shall make application in any rate. I requested you to

sent me a certain little black eyed boy photo for fear that you did not receive the letter, I mention

it again. Send it as soon as you can, I want to see him so badly.

We are sending home for a box of eatable. I want you to send me a few things from home if

you have it to spare. Send me a qt. can or two of good butter, 2 cans of apple butter; 1 sweet if

you have it yet and 1 of the sour. 1 of those scotch ale bottles full of Father's sweet Catawba

Wine. If you have any dried apples, send me a few lbs. of them and one of those French mustard

bottles full of currant jelly. We have no fruit. Tell Pattie to send me a can of fruit and some

pickles if she has them. If any of the rest of the friends wish to throw in their mite, I will not

object but it will be very thankfully received. Have the things you send to me carefully labeled and

send them into Lucus and Sifners Store, where they will be packed. As soon as you get this letter,

go or send to the store and ascertain when the box will be packed and get your things in, in good

time for packing.

I must close for this time. Kiss Willis for me and tell him to be a good boy and I will be home

one of these days. Kiss little Harry for me. How much I should love to see you all. Remember me

kindly to all of the friends, especially to father and mother, auntie and Pattie. Tell father I would

like much to hear from him.

With much love to you dear wife, I remain your affectionate husband,

J.J. Boyd

PS. I was very sorry to hear that Mr. Ault's estate was coming out still much worse than I

expected; I had hoped for the best. I heard that a certain man in Marion had written to H. S.

36

Lucas that the estate was coming out very badly and that if he could come home, he might up the

claims against the estate and get the property very cheap. I hope Father will not be compelled to

sacrifice the property of the estate on his own. I hope he can save his home. J. S. Reed was the

man that wrote Lucas. He was (Lucas) inquiring of me today how it was coming out. I gave him

no satisfaction.

I forgot to tell you to send me two handkerchiefs and my slippers if you please. Supper is ready

and I must close. Good bye for this time. Hoping to hear from you soon. I remain yours

affectionately, J. J. Boyd

37

Letter 23

Date: 9 July 1865

From: Eleanor Boyd; Baltimore, Maryland

To: Evelina (Gorton) Boyd; Marion, Ohio

Balt., July 9th 1865

My Dear Eva,

Not having heard directly from you, I thought I would write a few lines to you to know

whether you had forgotten to write to me or not.

I do want to hear from you and to see you all very much indeed and those dear little boys.

Have they forgotten their Aunt Ellen or Ella as they used to call me? Give my love to them and a

kiss for each one.

Well Eva, how do you like housekeeping by this time? It is a constant care to keep every thing

going in the right way. Have you good help or is help hard to get now the war is over? Provisions

have come down in prices a little, also butter sells for 25 to 31 cents per pound; potatoes bring

from 40 to 50 cents per peck.

Sue's health is very poor. She looks very thin and pale. Her appetite is not good. She is going

to the country in a week or so, to Edward's father to take the children with her to spend a few

weeks. Nellie has been quite sick but is better now. I am going to be housekeeper for her while

she is away. My hand has been out so long, I do not know how I will succeed with it. She has

very good health this summer.

Has Harry arrived at home yet? He passed through Balt. last Monday with the regiment en

route for Columbus to muster out of service. He did not stay but a short time with us.

It is near suppertime, so I must close with love to all, I am as ever, Aunt Ellen

Eva, is Pat doing anything for her country? Tell me, write soon to Aunt Ellen. Sue has had

the children's likenesses taken; I think they are good. Sue's love to all.

Letter 24

Date: 18 March 1872

From: Harry Livingston Boyd; Ralston, Colorado

To: Willis Gorton Boyd; Marion, Ohio

Willis G. Boyd, Marion, Ohio

38

Ralston, Colorado

March 18, 1872

Dear Nephew,

Your very much prized letter of Mar. 5 came duly to hand and I can assure you that I was

much gratified at the progress you are making in your studies. It is my earnest wish that you grow

up to be a good man and to do this you should always have in mind it that it is necessary that you

cultivate and establish , while young, good habits, which are the foundation of success and

prosperity in life. Be industrious, temperate and persevering. Avail yourself of every opportunity

for storing your mind with useful knowledge, always remembering that in this great and free

country of ours, so far as possibilities are concerned, every boy stands upon an equal footing and

through every one can not become president and senators, they can gain for themselves a standing

and position in society that would be no less creditable.

I was much entertained with your account of your pigs and chickens. I have about 75 chickens

from which I clear about $100 per year, besides supplying my own table with fresh eggs. My

chickens are of the common breed, but this summer I expect to raise a few Black Spanish and

Brahmas. Eggs average about 30 cents per dozen and chicks large enough to eat, $6 per dozen.

What kind of ducks have you? If you have White Aylesbury, I want you to raise me about 1/2

dozen and I will give you a good price for them this fall. I have a duck pond close to my house

that covers about three acres. I wish to put white ducks upon it so that the sportsmen will not kill

them when they are killing wild game.

If you will send me any forest trees, get as great a variety as you can. Get very small ones and

be careful not to break its roots. Let your father cut off the tops, he will know better how to do it

than you. Please write me a few days before you send the plants, stating what day you will send

them so that I may know when to go to the office for them. A white lily would be very

acceptable. Send me anything you can by mail and in time I will endeavor to repay your work for

your trouble.

With love to your father and mother, Harry, the baby and yourself. I am your affectionate

Uncle, H.L. Boyd

I suspect you will have to consult the dictionary to find the meaning of some of these big

words. I will by and write you a better letter next time. H.L.B.

Letter 25

Date: 8 January 1873

39

From: Hezekiah Gorton; Adrian, Lenawee County, Michigan

To: Joseph John Boyd; Marion, Ohio

Adrian, Jan'y 8th/73

J.J. Boyd & Co.,

I arrived here about 10 o'clock last evening. When I reached Shelby, the train had been gone

half an hour. Had to stay there five hours. Got to Monroeville a few minutes past one, no train

till six o'clock, 5 hours more delay. I begin to think I could get to Adrian about as soon with Pole

and Cutter. Found the friends all well. Artie was at the depot to meet me. I had been there for a

number of evenings before Sister Mary made many inquires about all of our folk. She says tell

Dora she is much obliged for the bundle she sent; they were just as her Father wanted.

Now I am going to tell you what I want you to do, and I want you to “mind”. Pay off all the

debts you owe about Marion. Lumber bill, bill for sawing, for tile, and all other small amounts if

it takes all I left with Eva. I can wait till you sell a colt or some real estate. Buy what corn will do

you, or anything Eva wants for her own use. It is not worthwhile to keep money on hand and

leave debts unpaid. Perhaps what I left with Eva won't reach but let it go as far as it can. And

don't forget the interest due Betsy and Harriet, that can be paid after I get back. Now be sure and

do as I tell you, however you may use the money for anything you most need. H. Gorton

I received a most cordial greeting from Brother and Sister Mary. Mrs. Morey says give my

love to all. H.G.

Letter 26

Date: 23 June 1873

From: Harry Livingston Boyd; Valmont, Colorado

To: Joseph John Boyd; Marion, Ohio

Valmont, Col., June 23, 1873

My Dear Brother.

It has been some months since I last wrote and I suppose you are unadvised as to my

whereabouts. After I sold my place, I deemed it inexpedient to try to do anything with wild land

this summer, as it was getting deep in the season. So I concluded to rent. I am two miles from

Valmont on Boulder Creek. Since the first of April I have plowed and sown 75 acres of wheat for

myself and 40 acres for another man and finished up on the 28th day of May. How does that do

40

for a living? I used a gany plow and 4 horses. Crops generally are unusually forming. The

grasshoppers have hatched very think in places and are doing a great deal of damage. I am

particularly unfortunate, and if they continue as bad as they have been thus far these weeks, I will

not come out square this year. I was obliged to pay 2% per month for money to buy teams. I can't

afford to lose my crop.

I was out north last week, looking for land. There is an abundance of Government land, the

finest and best I have seen in Colorado, lying between the Cache la Pondre and the Little

Thompson. And the possibilities are that it will all be taken inside of a year, or at least all the

choice tracts. This land in less than five years will sell for $20.00 per acre or more according to

the distance from towns. I am going to buy four 1/2 sections under the Homestead and Timber

Acts, and if you ever expect to come to Colorado, you would do well to do likewise.

I found in my rambles two sections that are particularly desirable, but they are both railroad

land, held at 4 or 5 dollars per acre; I am not certain which. The terms are 1/5 down and the

balance in yearly installments, at 6% per annum. One of these sections contain a basin which

when filled would make a lake 40 feet deep, covering between 400 and 500 acres of land and

would be worth when so filled, $10,000 at a very low estimate. I am aware that this will be a

difficult thing for you to understand as you are unacquainted with this country, but I will

endeavor to explain. This lake if properly stocked with Black Bass will, after 5 years, yield

annually at least 10 tons of fish which will bring readily 10 cts. per, amounting to two thousand

dollars.

The excess water which may be drawn from the lake will irrigate 2,000 acres of land which at

the lowest rates of sellings would be worth $2,000; making a total of $4,000 per annum. These

estimates are very low and are not merely guess work, but are based upon similar ventures already

in operations. Four years ago, I had a chance similar to this one above mentioned but not being

able to engage in it myself, I advised a friend to secure it. He being "short" did not succeed in

getting it filled until this spring. It covers 120 acres of land and only 15 feet deep. He is offered

$7,000 for the property but don't want to sell. His improvements in the building amount to about

$300. Within one mile of this place, there is one of these basins filled and stocked with fish. It

covers 60 acres, 30 feet deep and is valued at $15,000 and the fish are Sunfish and Sucker Chubs

that are indigenous to this country and sell readily for 25 cts. per lbs. and the owners realizes from

$1,500 to $2,000 yearly from the sale of fish.

As I am not in a situation to go into this enterprise single-handed, I will make you this

proposition. If you will furnish $2,000, I will purchase the section of land, dig the ditch (some 7

or 8 miles long) and fill in the lake and stock it with bass - within two years we to be equal

41

partners.

If you can possibly raise the money, do it immediately and let me know at once. I will

guarantee that you will not lose by the investment and if you are not satisfied in 3 years, I will

take it off your hands and allow you 15% per annum for your money. If you expect to settle in

Colorado, there is no more desirable location then this. The range for stock is excellent. Men

who 7 years ago worked by the 3 months and invested the proceeds in young stock now count

their cattle by thousands and horse by hundreds. Longmont Colony is about 8 miles distant,

which is at present the nearest RR point, but the narrow gauge road from New Mexico to

Laramie will, when completed, come within one or two miles. The town of Greeley is 15 miles

and St. Louis, a small village on the Big Thompson, is 6 miles distant.

If you can make this decision, do it at once as delay is very dangerous. I know of four different

groups who are making an effort to secure the land and under the circumstances, I feel

particularly anxious to have a reply from you at once. If you can not, and you know of any who

will accept of my proposition, please bring this mater to their notice at once.

I sent Pattie a little note with photos enclosed for her and Sue and expected to hear from her,

but was disappointed. I wish you would tell me something of Sue and Pattie. How they are

getting along cus I have not heard a word about Sue for 4 years or more.

With love to all relatives in Ohio or elsewhere, I am as ever, your affectionate brother, H.L.

Boyd

Direct your letters to H.L. Boyd, Valmont, Boulder Co., Colorado

Letter 27

Date: 2 July 1873

From: Willis Gorton Boyd; Columbus, Ohio

To: Joseph John Boyd and Eveline (Gorton) Boyd; Marion, Ohio

2 July 1873

Dear Father and Mother,

I have got to Aunt Harriet's all safe and sound. It rained torrents while we were about half way

to Delaware, just before we got to Norton. Emma Bunker, Cary Christian, Harry Uhler and

another young man was in the back and although it rained we had a good time. We got out at

Norton and bought a lot of candy. There was no one at the depot but I found my way up to

Aunt's easy enough. I have got the front room upstairs. It is a very nice room with gas. They have

42

no crossing in Columbus. I have made friends of Matilda and Dora. That is Silas children's

names.

Write soon, from you affectionate son, Willis G. Boyd.

Dear Father and Mother,

July 3rd. I was so tired yesterday that I did not go uptown. This the girls went a shopping. I

went with them as far as the state house. It is splendid. I went up in the dome, up some winding

stairs. Sunday we are going to the penitentiary to meeting. I went all over the capital. I guess I

will go down to the post office now.

Your affectionate son, Willis G. Boyd

Letter 28

Date: 9 July 1873

From: Willis Gorton Boyd; Columbus, Ohio

To: Joseph John Boyd and Eveline (Gorton) Boyd; Marion, Ohio

9 July 1873

Dear Father and Mother,

I wrote a letter the first day I was here and sent it Thursday. Since then I was to the fireworks

on the fifth and to church in the penitentiary on Sunday. Yesterday I was out to Cowell's and

seen the agriculture college. It is a beautiful. I am waiting for a chance to go out to the country.

After paying my fare I had $2.30 left. I spent 20 cents for knickknacks, 50 cents for toothpaste so

I have $1.50 left. With this I want to go to the penitentiary which will cost a quarter and buy me

a coat. I have not received answer for my first letter.

Are you all well? I send my love to all. Kiss little Eddy for me.

From your affectionate son, do write soon. I want to hear from you so bad. Willis G. Boyd

Address: 530 North High Street, Columbus Ohio.

Letter 29

Date: 30 July 1873

From: Harry Livingston Boyd; Valmont, Colorado

To: Joseph John Boyd; Marion, Ohio

43

Valmont, Colorado

July 30, 1873

Dear Brother,

I wrote you concerning a very important matter about 3 weeks since, but having rec'd no

answer, hardly know what to think or what to do. I am just as certain as I can be of anything that

if you can raise money enough to make the 1st payment and secure the land, we can both be

independent and in ten years time have an even $50,000, to speak entirely within bounds. Of

course this implies that you arrange to come to Colorado this fall and take hold of the work

yourself. Bring your family, I feel certain you will like the country. You can't help liking it. You

will enjoy better health, make more money and do it easier. Have just as good facilities for

educating your children, besides having them grow up with an independence of character which

they would not acquire where you are now. This is something, is it not? Is it not everything?

It is true some folks go back from here and generate bad reports of the country. But they're

invariably those who did not remain in the country long enough to know any thing about it. I

have yet to know the man who had lived here two years, that had any desire to return to the states

to live. And mark this © any man who has a family and is industrious and sober, if he will settle

down, be contented and work, and lay out what means he can in stock, cows or sheep or horses,

will be a rich man in less than ten years. If costs nothing to keep stock and through natural

increase of 20 to 30 cows, will enable you in ten years to count your cattle by the thousands.

Meanwhile you can raise chickens and milk a few cows, and sell eggs at 25 to 40 cts per dozen,

and butter at 30 cts to pay for current expenses, besides making a thousand or two farming. If you

have a good farm and are fixed so that you have plenty of water for irrigation. I know of no better

chance of procuring such a farm including one of the finest stock ranges in Colorado than this

location mentioned. Though I explained the situation hurriedly in my last letter, I will again,

knowing that it is difficult for one unacquainted with the country to understand these things. We

have two sources of supply, from which we derive water for irrigation, one, taking the water

directly from the streams, the other drawing from a reservoir. The latter is much the best way of

procuring water. 1st, it is warmer than that taken from the streams. 2nd, the supply can be

regulated to suit the demand. 3rd, the damage done to ditches from sudden freshets is avoided.

Now about the formation of these reservoirs. In certain tracts of country lying along the base

of the mountain there are natural depressions, forming basins or dry ponds varying from 5 to 50

ft. in depth and from two or three acres, to several hundred in extent. As the amount of rainfall in

this country is not sufficient to fill these, they must be filled from the streams when there is

44

plenty of water. The water thus stored away can be drawn upon whenever needed.

These basins form the very best of fishponds. The water is clear as ordinary spring water. All

kind of fish that thrive in our western rivers reach perfection in these lakes, and the amount that

they will sustain seems immense. Any man who has a deep pond, though it be not more than 15

to 20 acres in extent, considers himself well heeled, so far as easy living is concerned.

The RR land (which is not subject to good fillings) upon which this large basin is situated can

be obtained only by purchase from the RR Co., at a rough guess, I should say that the pond when

filled would cover 400 acres, from 30 to 40 ft. in depth. 5 ft. drawn from the surface would

irrigate 2,500 acres of land.

A very low estimate of the fish that could be produced would be say 500 lbs per acre, 100 tons

annually. There is plenty of great land that can be irrigated from it. More land than you ever saw

in the state of Ohio. Worth 20 dollars per acre as soon as you have processed your patent and

have it fenced. And it will double in value in 10 year. If you can possibly raise $1,000, don't

hesitate to do it, but send it right along, so that I can make the necessary surveys, secure the land

and go to work on the ditch as soon as my crops are gathered this fall.

All my available means are invested in such a way that it is no good for this scheme. I have

plenty of teams to build the ditch and can attend to that part of the program and after a couple of

years could come in with my share of the balance. This is no visionary scheme, but though

tangible dollars lie at the bottom of it, it can't fail, it can't burn up, the land is there and worth

more that you pay for it even if you put no improvements on it.

Let me know immediately on receipt of this what you will do. I you can raise the $1,000, send

it on at once as several other parties are after this land. If it is too late, I will send it back at once.

$1,000 is all that is needed at present. The balance will be required only as the other payments fall

due.

Though the proposition made in my last letter throws the lion share of the burden on me, I

am still willing to stand by it. If you can do anything in this matter, send me power of attorney so

that I can make a homestead filing for you. I expect to take a homestead and also 1/4 under the

timber act.

Please write immediately on receipt of this. Affectionately you brother. H.L. Boyd

Letter 30

Date: 27 July 1873 [?]

From: Harry Livingston Boyd; Valmont, Colorado

45

To: Joseph John Boyd; Marion, Ohio

Valmont, July 27, 1873

Dear Brother,

Your letter containing draft on N.B ($1,000) came to hand this morning, also the one written

pervious to that. I have been temporarily absent from home which accounts for my getting them

both at the same time.

I shall lose no time but go to Denver, obtain plats, get a survey on and be off at once as there

is no time to be last. The land in that section is being taken very rapidly, no less than 15 or 20 are

going immediately after harvest; all No. 1 people. We don't want any other kind in the

neighborhood.

I want you to send me power of attorney so that I can file on a homestead for you as I want

you to have 1st choice of land. As a soldier you can file a declaratory statement which will hold

the land six months, then you can make a regular homestead filing which will hold it six months

more before you will be required to improve and live upon it.

Anyone who has served 90 days in the army or navy of the U.S. can make these files through

an agent by giving poser of attorney. Stating day of enlistment and period of service etc. But they

will be required to occupy the land in person to fulfill the conditions of the law. The is, I can

make filings for you that will hold the land for one year, but at the expiration of that time you

must be living on the land. I will write you in answer to your inquires concerning what to bring

etc. in a few days when I have more leisure.

In haste, your affectionate brother, H.L. Boyd

I ordered the Rocky Mountain News sent to you last spring. Do you get it? Read it and let

your neighbors read it. Will give you a better general idea of the country than I could give in a

dozen letters.

It will pay big for any one expecting to start in the stock business in this country to bring fine-

blooded cattle, especially bulls. We're much in need of fine dairy stock. I will make inquires of

leading stockmen and have more to say about this in my next. Harry

Letter 31

Date: 2 September 1873

From: Harry Livingston Boyd; Valmont, Colorado

To: Joseph John Boyd; Marion, Ohio

46

Valmont, Col. Sept 2nd, 1873

Dear Brother,

Yours of Aug. 20th is at hand. As you have sold out and are determined to try Colorado, I will

tell you as clearly as I can what to bring. 1st, bring 1st class furniture that can be packed closely;

such as bureaus, tables etc. Pack in boxes and fill all vacant space, drawers etc. with articles of

general utility; bedding, looking glasses, pictures, dishes etc. Bring all your bedding and carpets if

they are serviceable. Cheap furniture and dishes that are much worn it will not pay to ship.

2nd, to the amount of material you bring you must be governed by the size of the house you

expect to build. You will not need a larger house in this country and less furniture will do. I

expect to build 18 x 24 for myself and better half (when I get her), which will give us plenty of

room and to spare. You will not require much room to start with. Such a house made comfortable

will cost about $350, besides your own labor.

If your cooking stove is a coal stove and about as good as new, bring it. If it is a wood stove

you would better sell it. Choice dried fruit, jellies, jams, preserves and barrel of apple butter are

articles which Eva and the children would prize very highly. Also honey and canned fruit, if put

up in tin cans. Don't attempt to bring such things in glass. Good new homes in this country cost

40 to 50 dollars. As the fright would amount to but little, it would be better to bring yours than

to sell at a sacrifice. In a word, sell the perishables, if any, and bring the best of everything useful.

As regard to stocks, I hardly know what to advise, as I do not know the rates of fright. Good

draft mares weighing 1200 lbs or upwards are worth from $400 to 500 per span, according to

style. Common cows are worth about $50 or more. Dairy cows that will make 8 lbs or more of

butter are worth $100, there are very few such in the country. If the rates are not woo high, it will

pay you well to bring a carload of No. 1 cows or heifer that will have calves in the spring. They

will be a source of profit during next summer, sufficient to support your family. If you bring any

common grade cows and heifers, I think you would do better to stop in Iowa a short time and

make your purchases. Drive them to Omaha and charter cars thence to Cheyenne. There have

been a larger number of cattle driven all the way through the past summer, and larger trains of

emigrants are daily arriving. But the journey by wagon is a long one and the season is too far

advanced to undertake it.

In regard to getting those notes discounted. I would say that what money you do not wish to

invest when here, you can readily loan out at 18% per annum on good real estate loans, But

money invested in cattle or sheep will compound at 30% per annum.

I have located my homestead in the bottom of the big lake and if I had rec'd your power of

47

attorney soon enough I would have had yours right alongside. But as the balance of that section is

filled up, I will homestead you up a claim as near as possible so that we can both be in the same

neighbor. I have also applied for the purchase of 240 acres of RR land but it is yet uncertain

whether the contracts will be signed by the land commissioner, as the RR company talk of

withdrawing totally from the market for a short time. My government land is the key to the lake

and it matters but little whether they withhold their land from the market or not.

I am now on my way to my homestead. Will return to Denver in about one week when will

find out what I can about RR freights, passenger etc. And let you know all about it. Meanwhile

you can ascertain which is the cheapest, from Marion to St. Louis, or to Omaha. I may be that

the St. Louis route will be the cheapest.

Tell Pattie I have not rec'd her letter yet. With love to all I am as ever your affectionate

brother, Harry

PS. Tell Eva that women of delicate health generally become robust and strong in less than a

year after coming to this country. She need not worry herself about a girl as it is fashionable in

this country for men and boys to help do the housework when help is required. A lady of my

acquaintance who had not been able to do housework of any kind for ten years pervious to

coming out here was in one year after her arrival, cooking and washing for a family of four sons

on an average. She don't want to return to Illinois. Harry

Letter 32

Date: 2 November 1873

From: Joseph John Boyd; Valmont, Colorado

To: Martha Ann (Boyd) Peters and Eleanor Boyd; Marion, Ohio

Valmont, Colorado, Nov. 2nd, 1873

Dear Pattie and Harvey and Auntie,

You may think it strange that you have no letter from me, but since our arrival in Colorado I

have been so topsy turvy, helter skelter and mixed up generally and being head of the family have

had a great many things to attend to. I have not been able to settle down sufficiently to compose

my thought in a proper shape to be penned and perhaps my effort today will be a grand failure.

But taking it for granted that you will excuse this letter if it is not in top shape, I will proceed.

After bidding our own family and all the good people of M. goodbye and boarding the train

we struck up a bargain with the conductor of the sleeping car for a seat and one birth for our

48

party. during the afternoon we were in a very pleasant side, our party being almost sole occupants

of the car. At night we were all snugly tucked away in our bunks.

After siding all night we arrived in the great city of Saint Louis very much refreshed and

rested from what we were when we left Marion. Had a very pleasant visit with Mr. Massay and

family. It rained most of the time while we were in the city, which made it very unpleasant for

sight seeing, especially for the women. Although Ollie Norton and Eva went down street on a

shopping expedition; Eva found shoes to suit her. We left Mr. Massey's Friday night at about 8

o'clock for the K.C.[ ]23 depot. Took the streetcars as far as we could. Then had to ride shanks

horses about 1/2 mile through Saint Louis mud and slush. We were all pretty well a mess and

made the boot black at Kansas City earn his money giving us a shine. Arrived in K.C. about 9

o'clock Saturday morning. Went to the St. James Hotel, took dinner, laying around in the cold

rooms until nearly night when we went to the depot to find more comfortable quarters until train

time which was at 10 o'clock.

Our tickets cost us five dollars more than we expected, paying $30 per capita from Kansas City

to Denver. Having secured tickets, we took a drawing room car for which we paid $18 to Denver.

We had a very pleasant ride across the plains. Nothing worthy of note transpired in crossing the

Great Plains save now and then a flock of antelope galloping across the plain. At nearly every

station piles of buffalo bones and cord of buffalo hides. There is no habitation for man or bear

except at the railroad stations.

Well we traveled along at the rate of from 15 to 20 miles per hour, at which rate we were just

32 hours from K.C. to Denver at which we arrived at 7 o'clock Monday morning.

It was a very pleasant sight to see the first rays of light strike the snow-capped summit of the

Rocky Mountains. Willis and Harry enjoyed themselves sitting on the platform at the rear end of

the car, watching the rising sun as he threw his first gleam of light on the snowy range. The sight

was one of the most sublime grandeur.

We reached Denver at half past seven, Monday morning expecting to meet Harry at the

depot, which he failed to do nor did we find him until Tuesday afternoon. He came to the depot

shortly after we left, was on the hunt for us all the intervening time. Not being able to find Harry,

we took an omnibus,[ ]24 went to Mrs. Miles, formerly Miss Susan Sloan. Seen Mr. Sloan, he is in

very poor health. They having no room to accommodate us, we went to Mrs. Sherrils, an old

friend of Eva's. She was formerly Miss Eliza Sloan from Marion. We got accommodation there

until Thursday morning. When we took our departure for this place. In the meantime, Mr.

23 K.C – Kansas City. 24 Omnibus - A horse-drawn bus.

49

Uncaplear and Mr. Hudson went out in the country to find Harry, but when they got to

Valmont, they found he had went to Denver in search of us.

Well here we are partially settled down for the winter. Our goods just came out last Monday,

just 2 weeks from the time they left Marion. I have made two trips after goods this week. Harry,

Mr. Uncaplear and myself went to Denver last Tuesday and got a load of our goods. Returned on

Wednesday. Thursday we unpacked our bedding, put up bed and commenced keeping house. On

Friday Mr. Hudson and myself went to Denver after the balance of the goods. Got all the goods

this load except the buggy and melodeon.

We are 25 miles from Denver in a northwesterly direction. 4 miles east of Boulder City and 6

miles from the foothills. Boulder valley is one of the finest grain growing valleys in Colorado. The

wheat crop generally pans out about 30 to 50 bushels per acre. Any man that has a ranch in this

valley is well lulled. This afternoon, we hitched one of Harry's horses to the springy wagon and

rode up towards Boulder City. Had a splendid view of the valley. This is the first time Eva has

been out to look at the valley. She thinks it is splendid.

A word about the house we live in. It is a square brick house, situated at the base of Uncle

Tommy Jones Butte. In front of the door is a running stream of water clear as crystal and so cold

it will make your teeth ache. Just across the stream stands the Methodist Church. The family all

went to church, but myself and the children. Our house contains 4 rooms above ground, three

rooms below; kitchen, cellar and one bedroom. So you see we are some what tucked in. Our

family consists of 7 grown persons and 3 children. Tomorrow or next day the “Major”, myself and

Mr. Uncaplear and Mr. Hudson are going up the Big Thompson. The “Major” has his lumber all

on the ground for his house and in the course of 3 or 4 weeks we expect to have his house ready

for himself and better half to go into. I will also select my ...

[Missing the rest of the letter.]

Letter 33

Date: 16 December 1873

From: Harry Livingston Boyd; Valmont, Colorado

To: Marian Alford

Valmont

Monday Dec. 16, 1873

My Dearest Marian:

50

I have been very busy since 2 o'c this morning getting ready to start for the homestead but

thought I could not go without giving you one more assurance that you are not forgotten. -

Unnecessary assurance, you will admit no doubt, but I did not know that I would have another

opportunity before Christmas, when I expect to see you.

I look forward with valiant resignation to the Happy New Year, and assure you that my

anticipations are of the happiest kind. I expect to be gone about one week this time. I do not yet

know whether Joe and Evan will be at the wedding or not. Joe is getting along finely and thinks

he will be able to ride over by that time. I will let you know Christmas whether they will come or

not. I was in Denver on Saturday last. Tell your father that I was unable to find out anything

about that 1/4 section of land as the land office was closed when I called.

It is ten o'c and I must be off. Good Bye.

Yours Devotedly, Harry

Letter 34

Date: 1 November 1874

From: Harry Livingston Boyd; Big Thompson, Colorado

To: Marian (Alford) Boyd

Big Thompson

Nov. 1st, 1874

My Dear Wife:

I received your letter on Thursday last and was delighted to hear that you and the baby were

doing so well. I am looking for another letter tomorrow; so I thought I might as well write a few

lines in return and mail it when I go to the office tomorrow evening. The threshers came this

afternoon and were here for supper. I will get breakfast for them in the morning, after which I

will delegate the management of the culinary dept. to Mrs. Smith that is to be -- I have devoted

the whole of this blessed day to cleaning up, ironing, dishwashing, etc., etc. Washing day, I ___

one week, on account of so much other work.

On my return I found things pretty much as I left them, except the chickens. -The wolves

have gotten away with just several of them, as near as I can reckon.

I have not had time to do much toward the house yet. I quarried rock two days, went forward

one day and used up the balance of the week in preparing for the threshers.

It is now late at night and I must get to bed or I will oversleep in the morning. --Joe's _____

51

one week. I am getting awful lonesome. When shall I come for you?!

Your Affectionate Husband, H.L. Boyd

P.S. Kiss the dear baby for his pa and tell me what is his name when you write. Harry.

Letter 35

Date: about 1874

Poem written by Margaret Elizabeth Cross: Loveland, Colorado

52

NEW YEAR'S BALL

Lives of great men oft remind us,

We might take some exercise,

And in dying leave behind us,

Footprints in railroad ties.

The party on New Year's night,

Brought Montie down the railroad track,

The stone house right before his sight,

With doors awaiting for the clack.

With light step and beating heart,

She rushes for the door,

Says dear Mont, "They couldn't fool me,

I knew you'd come once more."

Now Montie before it gets to late,

I'll put on my coat and shawl,

We'll go up the railroad track

And take in the New Year's ball.

Lizzie Cross

Loveland , Colorado

Letter 36

Date: 28 February 1876

From: Hezekiah Gorton; Marion, Ohio

To: Willis Gorton Boyd, Colorado

Marion, O. Monday Feb. 28th, 1876

Willis Boyd,

Your very kind letter came duly to hand. I was very glad to learn that you was taking so much

53

interest in the managing stock. I see nothing to prevent you and Harry from making a fortune in

a few years, if you only take good care of your stock. Let none of them stray off or die for want of

care. Am glad you had the opportunity of going to school this winter. Did Harry commit his

piece (to speak at the close of school) perfectly, and did he speak it with energy and animation? I

hope you and Harry will make two of the most businessmen in the neighborhood where you live

and the most honest and truthful. In all your intercourse in life, practice virtue, and adhere to

truth. You will then be respected by all classes of community and will retain a name which be of

inestimable value to you in all transaction in life. Now do not forget this but practice it and you

will have but little to annoy you through life.

Emma Bunker who married one of the F. Campbell's sons died Friday last and was buried

yesterday. Dick Wilson's wife was also buried yesterday. I got a letter from Annie the same day I

received yours. She says they will be lonesome when Harry leaves and Sherman says they will

have a room ready for me and I must come and occupy it, and I can have a horse and buggy

whenever I want. Last week, on Wednesday, I went to Eb's and stayed till Saturday. On

Thursday 24th, their boy was two years old, so they invited Ballantine and wife, Mr. Norris and

wife, Waugh and wife, Bill Norris (her husband was not at home), Hiram and Mary, Conley and

John Ballantine and wives, so we had a social and pleasant time. Say to your mother that your

Aunt Mary has got so old that she has got to be grandmother. Eudora has a fine boy eight days

old. All wish to be remembered to all the family and Friends. Have been looking for a letter from

your mother. Tell Harry to write to me. H. Gorton

Letter 37

Date: 29 March 1876

From: Hezekiah Gorton; Marion, Ohio

To: Joseph John Boyd family; Larimer County, Colorado

Marion O., Weds. March 29th, 1876

Joe and Eva and the Boys,

Not a day passes but what I think of you and wonder what you are doing. Sometimes I fancy I

can see Eddie and the dog crossing round in the plains watching the prairie dogs running from

one of their homes to another on a visiting excursion. And Willis and Harry after the horses and

cows, calves etc. Or in the mountain after wood or on the hunt for a coal bank or a gold mind.

Well if you take good care of what you have and are industrious, you will come out all right

54

someday. I see no chance for making a fortune in Ohio as easy as in Colorado.

This has been one of the most unpleasant winter I ever experienced in Ohio. We have had but

two or three days of fair weather at a time all winter and the roads have been and are now as bad

as they can be. Can hardly be traveled with a pair of horses and wagon except on the pikes. Sister

Morey's health has been very poor for a month or more past. Adeline also has sick turns very

often. Young John Ballantine, Conley and Ebenezer are considerably in debt and not able to meet

their debts due this spring. But they all have property enough and will work through in the end.

On Monday last we had about two inches of snow, Tuesday morning it snowed quite hard for

a spell, then it rained. It snowed this morning, it has been more cold. I see by the papers there

had been heavy snowstorms on the Union Pacific RR. How has the weather been with you this

month? I fear you have had severe storms. Hope your horses and cattle are not starving. Does

Jude Osborn live in Collins? When you see him give my best regards to him and his family. How

is the Major's family and Monroe's? Remember me to them. What depth of water have you in

the Lake? Has Mrs. Ryan returned yet? Write soon and tell me all about all the folks, and

remember me to all our most intimate friends. The family all wish to be remembered to you. Mrs.

Straub says she may probably go to Colorado with Eva on her return. H. Gorton

There is one receipt in the list I sent. It would be well to procure the articles and make and use

it on horse's hoofs.

Letter 38

Date: 28 May 1876

From: Joseph John Boyd; Big Thompson, Colorado

To: Eveline (Gorton) Boyd; Marion, Ohio

Big Thompson

May 28th, 1876

Dear Eva,

Two weeks have passed since you and our dear little Eddie started to Ohio. Upon your safe

arrival in St. Louis I rec'd a postal card from Alice. I expected a letter from you while in St. Louis,

but as yet have not received any. Alice said you were tired of course from the trip, but well and

happy. I hope you have arrived at Marion by this time and entirely recovered from the fatigue of

your long journey. How did Eddie get along taking care of you on the train?

Well, we were very fortunate in starting to Denver when we did instead of putting it off a

55

week. One week latter and Harry and I would have been caught in Denver as the flood stopped

all travel across the country. The bridges between here and Denver have all been swept away

except the bridge at St. Louis, Colorado. The water reached almost from bluff to bluff. Crops

have been badly damaged on some ranches on the creek. To tell you all the particulars and freaks

of the storm would require a great deal more space and time than I have tonight. The Thompson

keeps rising and falling as the snow melts slow or fast on the range. The snow in Estes Park was

18 in. deep when the storm ceased, at Sunshine 22 in. Over on North Dry Creek Trail lay on the

ground 5 to 8 in. deep. We were just in the edge of hailstorm. There is 13 ft. of water in our lake,

being a rise of 7 ft.

Mrs. Taylor starts E. out Tuesday, May 30. Harry and I were down to Sherman Smith's

yesterday to get a sod plow. Took dinner, seen the baby; looks like Annie. They call it Gertrude

Oliae Smith, Annie is smart. Sally has not been down to see Annie, can't get there until the water

falls. There is no school since the flood nor won't be for a week or two. Mr. Smith and Annie

wanted Harry to stay this week with them as Smith is going to the Mill. He thinks he can't go on

account of his chickens. I bought a dozen prime Brahma eggs and turkey eggs for him yesterday

to encourage him in the poultry business. Willis see to the stock and helps me with the planting.

Mrs. Hendersen wished to be remembered to you and hopes that you will enjoy and have a good

visit. Mr. Hendersen says tell you not to forget the bootjack.

Tell Eddie I miss the nice cups of flowers he gathered for the table, couldn't get much prettier

ones. Bro. Harry's wife is well again. I see there is not stopping place so I will close abruptly.

Goodnight. Joe

Letter 39

Date: 9 January 1878

From: Hezekiah Gorton; Big Thompson, Colorado

To: Harvey Peters and Martha Ann (Boyd) Peters; Marion, Ohio

Big Thompson Jan. 9th/78

Harvey and Pattie,

As Joe and Eva are so busy they have no time to write and have nothing very flattering to write

about, I thought I would drop you a line to let you know how we are getting along. Well, we are

not suffering for anything to eat, drink or wear and will probably have an increase by the spring of

between 25 and 30 young calves. We have 2 head of horse kind; two ponies and a mare. One of

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the ponies had not been seen since one year last July until Willis found it this winter up in the

mountains. And was in splendid order, real fat, will be 4 years old in the spring. The boys have

broke it to ride.

But still Joe will have to manage closely to get along in consequence of not raising anything on

his land for want of an irrigating ditch. However a company is now formed and chartered to

make a ditch and Joe is treasurer. There has been considerable work already done on it. Since the

location of the ditch, the land in it's vicinity has been taken up rapidly and is rising rapidly in

value. But there is one drawback, when Harry located, or bought rather, the land for Joe, it was

on five years credit, annual payments. He made two payments and used the balance of the $1,000

Joe sent him in building his house expecting of course to meet the payments as they became due.

He has failed to do so and according to the contract with the railroad company, the land falls

back to said company unless payments are complied with. So there is danger of loosing the land

unless Joe raises the cash and pays the balance due. For his brother Harry says he is unable to do

it, but is willing to do all he can to secure Joe.

Joe did not know till quite recently but what the payments were all made. He is expecting to

borrow the money to pay up all arrears on the land. If not we will have to content ourselves on the

homestead. But if he succeeds in securing a title to the land, I see nothing to hinder him from

making a good living and perhaps a fortune, notwithstanding all his losses and embarrassments.

The extension of the Union Pacific Railroad from Cheyenne through this place to Denver has

added largely to the value of real estate in this section of country.

Joe, Eva and the boys all join in my kind greetings to you both, also to Fanny and the boys. H.

Gorton

Be so good as to let us hear from you occasionally.

Letter 40

Date: 1882

From: Hezekiah Gorton; Loveland, Colorado

To: His Children

1882

Message found in an envelope titled "H. Gorton to his children, open this when I am gone,

not before."

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My dear children, my sister, my grand children. Grieve not for me when I am gone. What I

desire is that my body be placed in a common plain coffin, with no extravagant display for the

tomb. It would do me no good. Neither will I be there, I trust, when my mortal remains is being

conveyed to their resting place. I will be in the paradise of God, the home of the blessed, where

all are sinless and pure. May God's blessing rest upon you all and comfort all your hearts.

Farewell, H. Gorton.

Letter 41

Date: 16 January 1885

From: Joseph Edward Boyd; Loveland, Colorado

To: Frederick Wilson Peters; Marion, Ohio

16 Jan.1885

Loveland, Larimer, Colorado

Dear Cousin Fred,

I wrote a letter to you long ago and have never received any answer. I am going to school. I

like my school very much. Fannie says you and Walter are going to school. I killed 22 geese last

year. I killed 12 geese and a good many ducks this year.

Aunt Sue and Uncle Ned sent a box to Uncle Harry and us. It was filled of Christmas

presents. I got a very nice book. Harry and Willis got a book too. Eva got a wax doll in the box

and a book. Mamma got a nice white apron and some pocket handkerchiefs. It was intended for

Christmas but did not get here until after New Years. Oh yes, there was a lot of nuts, figs,

raisons, prunes and macaroni for each family.

Now cousin Fed, I want you to write to me and tell Walter to write me a letter. I have had lots

of fun skating and hunting and going to school and doing the chores. Tell cousin Fannie when

she has no one else to write too she can write to me. give my love to Aunt Pattie and all rest. I

can't go to school today, threatened with croup.

From your cousin, Eddie

P .S. I've are having a bad cold. Eva had it first, sore throat. Mama next, she had it worst of

any of us. Father has it now. I hope you are all well.

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Letter 42

Date: 26 January 1885

From: Joseph Edward Boyd; Loveland, Colorado

To: Frederick Wilson Peters; Marion, Ohio

26 Jan.1885

Loveland, Larimer, Colorado

Dear Fred,

Received your letter today. I have lots of fun hunting. I killed one goose yesterday. We have

had a snow the other day. Uncle Harry caught 475 ducks one day last week. He says he is making

more than his living. I have lots of fun skating on the big lake, the ice is 17 inches thick on the

lake. My school will be out in two weeks. We play black man in school. The teacher is boarding

her now. I like her very much. All the children like her. We had a wind storm last night. Tell

Walter to write to me soon.

Write soon, Eddie Boyd

Letter 43

Date: 9 January 1888

From: Martha Ann (Boyd) Peters; Baltimore, Maryland

To: Evelyn Gorton Boyd; Marion, Ohio

Dear Eva,

I just received your nice letter and was so glad to hear from you. And I expect to see you

before long. I went to Swathmore with Fanny Tuesday and stayed until Thursday and was very

much pleased with the school and teachers. Since I came back have been going over the city and

seeing some of my oId friends!

Uncle, Fred, Edward and I visited the Darby Candy works. The building is eight stories high.

When we were at the top, we were 140 feet above the ground. We saw them making some kinds

of candies. Most of the employees were taking a holiday vacation so of course they were not

working in some of the rooms.

No danger of leaving Fred in Baltimore. His visit is out now and he wants to go home. He

had been very well contented and I guess has been nearly all over the city. He has gone to the

depot to find out what time we will leave here. I guess we will start home some time tomorrow

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and get home Wednesday if we go through without any delay, but you will see us when we get

there. I want to sent my letter to the office by Uncle Ned, so must close. Love to all and hope to

see you soon.

Affectionately. Aunt Pattie.

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Letter 3

Date: 7 January 1889

From: Evelyn Gorton Boyd; Marion, Ohio

To: Harry Barton Boyd; Loveland, Colorado

Marion Ohio Jan. 7th 1889

My Dear Harry,

I sent you a postal some time ago. I said then I would write to you soon, but I did not get it

done. I have thought every day that I would write. The days are very short when we get up so late.

Eva started to school this morning so we will have to get up early. Aunt Pattie has no girl and as

Fred is not working she says she is not in any hurry in the morning so that makes short days.

You said in your letter that Spotts told you he had word to look out for the trappers. Did

Eddie trap any more, what is he doing, and how does he get along? Tell me how you are getting

along and what you have to do in the shop. I am feeling better and if I was with you in Loveland,

I would not leave. Then I could see my children. What do I live for if it is not for them? I want to

be well and have a home that my children can call home. I know if father had lived, we could all

have a home with him, a place to call home. I think with the warm weather you have had, if we

could have had help to do the work, I would have got better there. But it could not be so. I do not

want to say or do anything that will make it any harder for you or Willis.

Eva and I have it very nice here and everyone is very kind, but that is not like having a home

where I can see you all. I want you to talk to Eddie, tell him to tell you what he would like to say

to me. It would do me so much good to hear something from him. He told me he would have

written to me when I was here before, if he could only spell better. Harry, I hope you will look

after him and do all you can for him, to have him do right. We thought we had to talk so much

to Eddie and it did no good. Well since I left home I have seen others that are in much worse.

Bob Massa is a good boy, but he forgets what work he has to do every morning and evening

before he goes to school. Allie and I was talking about it when I was there. I think it is as she

says, all boys have to be told of their work and what they must do, they do not remember it as

long as it takes to tell it. Do you think Eddie will come here in the spring? I think he ought to

have some one to come with him. Aunt Pattie says she thinks there will be someone coming in

March when the President[ ]25 takes his place in Washington that Eddie could come with, if you

do not come.

25 President Benjamin Harrison (1889-1893).

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I can not expect Pattie to give me a home so very long and we would have to keep house

somewhere. I can not help thinking where will it be. Eva likes the school very much. I think she

will get a good start then I want to keep her at school till she gets a good education. I will have to

pay one dollar a week for her school. Eva received the present you sent, she thinks it is very

pretty, she keeps it in the box. Did you get the book that Pattie sent you and the candy the

Fannie sent? They were sent by mail. Did Uncle Harry get the box that Pattie sent him? What

did you do with the stove and the screen doors and the window curtains?

What did you all do Christmas? Pattie and her family and Eva and I was invited to Mrs.

Hummee's for dinner. We had a very nice dinner and a good visit but my thought were in

Colorado. I would liked to have been with my children. Mrs. H. gave me a very nice book. Its

little. Fannie and five other girls received new years calls at Aunt Patties. Three of the girls are

from Upper Sandusky. The three stayed with Fannie from Monday till Friday morning. They had

a lively time. Dinner is ready, I must go. Dinner is over and dishes washed. I must get to see

Aunt Mary.

Oh how I do wish I could see the folks out home. Did you go out as you thought you would? I

would like to see the little ones so much. I do wish the house was warmer. I hope to hear from

home often. I have not said half what I want to. I want you to answer all my questions. Tell me

how Annie is getting along. Give her my love. Tell her to write to me. I have not written to

Barton yet. I can not write but little at a time. It tires me. It is like washing dishes hurts by lungs.

Did Mrs. West take my sewing machine? I have not been up street yet, we have had so much

rain. Do write as soon as you get this. Willis sent me two Loveland papers. I would like more.

I close with much love. Eva sends love says she would like to see you and sends a kiss. Your

aff. Mamma, E.G.B.

Letter 45

Date: 7 May 1889

From: Willis Gorton Boyd; Denver, Colorado

To: Eveline (Gorton) Boyd; Loveland, Colorado

Denver, Colo., May 7th 1889

My Dear Mama,

I have been in Denver a week and have had several talks with the company that hold the loan.

They will not foreclose until next fall and maybe not then. They thoroughly understand the

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situation and will work to our interest. They see what the creditors are trying to do and they will

endeavor to bid the property in, if they have to sell it and then turn it over to you, if you wish it. I

am glad I came to town had a talk with them. They are gentlemen and appreciate your

circumstances.

Well I have headed my big team off and have taken an agency for some farm machinery. Will

have to travel much of the time. Tis something that will just suit me. And if I make a success of it

this summer, I will have a good thing another year as I can have any number of states east of the

Mississippi to travel in at a salary of $150 per month and expenses. I obtain a commission on

what I sell this summer. Charley Shallenburger is making now from $10 to $30 per day with the

same thing in the southern part of the state. I have the northern part of the state.

I had a letter from Lizzie yesterday and she said they were all well. We have had a glorious old

rain. Rained and snowed every day for a week, was the best rain we have had for three years.

Prospects are fine for a big crop. Water will be more abundant than we thought at fist, so I won't

need any money to keep them from foreclosing. I am going home today and will have to quit to

catch the train. Give my love to all the folks and tell them I am liable to see them this fall about

fair time. With much love and a kiss to you and Eva.

I remain your aff. son, Willis.

Letter 46

Date: 20 October 1891

From: Willis Gorton Boyd; Loveland, Colorado

To: Evelyn Gorton Boyd; Marion, Ohio

My Dear Little Sister,

Wasn't I surprised though the other day when I returned from a trip away across the

mountains to find a letter from the little girl I thought had forgotten me entirely. You can't

imagine how glad I was to hear from you. You must be getting along well in your studies. You

write a nice letter for a girl of your age and I hope you will write me oftener. It has been a long

time since I heard or seen you hasn't it? I will try and see you sometimes this winter but don't

know when it will be. Maybe not at all this winter, but will try to.

Yes, Eddie is still with me, and Harry also. Harry has been staying here while I have been

away. Eddie went hunting last Saturday and got back yesterday. He killed 15 great big geese and

some ducks. You have two little nieces and two nephews here now. Myrna, Nellie, Ray and a

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little boy baby about 6 weeks old; he is as fat and saucy as a little bear but he isn't cross like a bear.

He is as good as he can be. The children all keep as well as possible for any children to be. Never

sick at all. Myrna helps her mother a good deal for such a little thing. Ray is getting to be a great

big fat rascal. Just full of fun, wants to romp all the time. Nellie is just beginning to talk a little.

Myrna talks about her Aunt Eva a good deal.

I have got a whole lot of horses now and as soon as I get them broke will ship some of them

back east someplace. Don't know just where to yet. I am going to ship cattle to Chicago the l0th

of November . Harry may go with them that far and if he does, I think he will go on to Marion.

Wouldn't you like to see him? We are living out where Annie Smith used to live in the country.

But will move into town next month sometime.

We are having very nice weather her now, nice warm, and pleasant. Lizze wants you to write

to her before long. I would have written you sooner but was away from home when your letter

came. Well, have to quit now as I have some work to do. With lots of love from us all to you and

Aunt Pattie and the rest.

I remain your affectionate brother, Willis G. Boyd

Letter 47

Date: 13 March 1892

From: Margaret Elizabeth (Cross) Boyd; Loveland, Colorado

To: Evelyn Gorton Boyd; Marion, Ohio

Dear Sister Eva,

You can't guess how glad I was to get a letter from you, and to know you wrote it all yourself.

Harry read his letter to me telling how tall you were and what you weighed. I can hardly realize

that the little girl that left me most two years ago can now be 'most as tall as I am as my height is

5 ft. 2 in, weight 128. I had the children weighed not long ago. Myrna weighed 32 1/2 and Ray

32 lbs. They have grown so much this winter. Ray is fat as ever but Myrna gets taller and

slimmer. Nellie is a cute curly-headed little midget, has never talked very much until lately and

now she says such cute things. Harry was down from the mountains, the last time he was teasing

Nellie, told her he was going to cut off a curl. "No Uncie Hi Naie Hi" meaning "No Uncle Harry,

Nellie's Hair."

Willis has been gone since January 28th and is still at Tampa, Florida. Got a letter this

morning saying he had 3 head of horses left. He drove out in the country last Sunday and said it

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was as hot as any day we have in August here, flies and mosquitoes bother you 'most to death.

Said he would not live in the country for the whole state hardly. It is getting past the season for a

ready horse market so he is a long time selling out although I expect he will start home any day

now.

Oh yes! Little Andy is in short clothes since February 1st. He is a bouncing big boy and just

laughs as loud as can be every time you play with him and talk to him. When Aunt Mag was here

for a short time this winter she called him the "jolly kid". You remember Aunt Mag and Nellie

Stotts that was here visiting with Ma when we moved from the ranch to town? Aunt Mag came

this winter to see her sister that came to visit with Ma from California. Ma and Aunt Mag had

not seen her for 27 years. That is a long time isn't it?

Willis did talk of going to Ohio the first time he was to Florida with horses to look for a

market for these last ones, but thought he could sell as quick there again as any place else. Says

horses are cheap every place he has been this winter. Harry talks of Ohio but says it takes money

to make the horse go, so don't look for him till you see him coming. Harry is in the mountains

cooking for the men at the sawmill and Eddie is up there too, getting out logs for the mill, both

working for John Hays. They say the snow is pretty deep up there but it is not as cold there as in

the valley. Harry talks of going to Creede, the new mining camp in the southern part of the state,

as soon as the snow is off this spring so they can cross the range. It was reported some time ago

that Tom Johnson, Dr. Sutherland and some other men of Loveland had sold two mines at

Creede for $81,000 but no one here has seen the money yet that I know of.

Will you send me Aunt Adaline's address? I owe her a letter this long time but lost her letter

with her number and street. It is getting late and I must get to bed as I have to be up early to get

the chores all done before school time. Edna Johnson is staying with me while Willis is gone to

take care of the children while I chore and run errands to town. Have 1 cow, 1 horse, 1 pig, and

85 chickens to care for. My old Duke horse you used to ride is in Palatka, Florida. Willis took

him the first load of horse he took this winter. Ethel was here a little while yesterday. Says they

were all well but quite busy beginning their spring work since we have had two weeks such nice

warm weather. Will close with love to all as tomorrow is wash day. I must be to bed pretty soon.

Almost 10 o'clock but I have to write nights or the children bother me so I can't think straight.

Oh yes, Myrna said tell Eva she went to Sunday School every Sunday with Edna. Ray went with

Edna to school Friday afternoon and I must tell you that for him, good night little girl as this will

be enough to read this time as I write so fast it is hard to read. Will write again some of these fine

days.

Your Sister, Lizzie Boyd

65

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Letter 48

Date: 2 April 1893

From: Laura (Richart) Boyd; Loveland, Colorado

To: Evelyn Gorton Boyd; Marion, Ohio

Dear Sister,

I will try to answer Harry's letter that he received from you sometime ago. Harry has been

awful busy in the shop. I suppose you know by this time that he is married. We were married the

first of February.

I don't suppose any of your folks from out here will get to go to the World's Fair. We see your

uncle Harry's folks quite often. They are all well at present. Ethel stayed with us a week since we

was married. We got a letter form Eddie last week. He is down to Durango. He's doing quite

well this winter. I suppose you will go to the World Fair. If you do, you had better come out and

spend a few months with us. I would like to have you come ever so much. We are having lovely

weather out her now. The grass begins to look quite green.

Well I must close, hoping this will find you well and happy. Write soon as I always like to

receive letters and I know Harry always likes to hear from you.

I remain your sister, Laura Boyd

Letter 49

Date: 8 August [?]

From: Laura (Richart) Boyd; Loveland, Colorado

To: Evelyn Gorton Boyd; Marion, Ohio

Dear Sister,

After so long a time, I will try to answer your letter. I was up to Aunt Marian's Saturday and

read some of Eugene's letters. I was very sorry to hear of Fred and Lillian's sickness and Batten's

fire.

Well I have not done scarcely anything all summer. We live near Mrs. Bert Davis and she

takes me out riding a great many times, but she has been sick for some time and I tell you, I miss

her. She is at Dr. Southerland's now, they took her today. I have been to a good many parties this

summer. I was to a progressive pageant party given by Mrs. Jenning's and several other ladies, and

to an old fashioned lawn party given by Mrs. Crosby, Emma Harter and others. Mrs. Galligan

Davis and I went to a dinner party about ten miles in the country. The Galligan's, Batt's, Davis',

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Edmand's, and Boyd's all took their children and went to Denver one Sunday. There were twenty

six in the crowd. We took our dinner with us and spent the day at the gardens. Mamma and

Cecil were with us a few days and Lucinda and three children were here two weeks and Edward

was here four or five days. May spent one day with us and Willis. I do not feel that we got very

well aquatinted with her, although she seems very nice.

Mrs. Jennings has built on to her house; it is quite large and very nice now. She said for me to

tell you to write to her. Gertie's husband has taken the whisky cure and is doing very nicely now.

The watermelons are coming in now. I guess I will have to begin to save seed. I heard Harry

telling Ed that he must write to Eva and I thought that some more of us had better do likewise

but you know I am doing well if I write once a year. Lizzie has gone to Nebraska after Louise.

Well I will say good bye. Your sister, Laura.

Letter 50

Date: 21 December 1895

From: Raymond Joseph Boyd; Loveland, Colorado

To: Evelyn Gorton Boyd; Marion, Ohio

Dear Aunt Eva,

I thought I would give you a Xmas surprise. I thank you for the sled. We have a fine time with

it but I do not hitch on wagons for they might go off with it.

I am going to speak "The Bad Boys Christmas Stocking" in school Tuesday afternoon and

speak the same piece at the church in the evening. Myrna and I are getting along nice in school.

We will go in the second reader after vacation and maybe in the second room too. Miss Getting's

is our teacher in the first room. We like her very much. Nellie will start to school after vacation.

She has a first reader.

Mamma gave me a nickel and I bought you a handkerchief for Xmas. Myrna and Nellie send

you the pin. Mamma has not been feeling well for several days. She felt last night like she might

have a fever but is a little better today. I will write again after Xmas and tell you what we all got.

We all send a Merry Xmas and Happy New Year to you all.

Your Loving, Raymond Boyd

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Letter 4

Date: 19 September 1896

From: Raymond Joseph Boyd and Margaret Elizabeth (Cross) Boyd; Loveland, Colorado

To: Evelyn Gorton Boyd, Marion, Ohio

Loveland, Colorado

September 1896

Dear Aunt Eva,

I expect you have been looking for a letter long ago. School commenced September 8. Myrna

and I are in the third room. We read in the third reader, books Elementary Arithmetic with a

little geography and language which keeps us pretty busy. Nellie is in he first room and in the A

grade.

Papa got Andy a little pup, we have lots of fun with it. Papa got me a pony last summer, I

wish you was here to ride her. Her name is Nettie and she has a little black colt. What shall we

call him? When we fall off of her, she stops for us to get on again.

Mama is going to send a picture of Papa and us children. We will have to go to school in the

morning so we will close for tonight.

From your loving, Raymond Boyd

Dear Sister Evelyn,

As Ray is writing I will scratch a few lines too. We are pretty well, except, colds. Have had

several cold storms lately and gave us all colds.

Harry and Laura called here at the gate Sunday evening. They still live in Berthoud. We have

not heard from Eddie for a long time but I shall send him some pictures soon and see if that will

cause him to write.

It is getting near school time and I am in such a hurry. I can't write so you can read it so will

close with love to all and lots for yourself.

Your far away sister. Lizzie Boyd

Letter 52

Date: 4 April 1896

From: Myrna Elizabeth Boyd; Loveland, Colorado

To: Evelyn Gorton Boyd; Marion, Ohio

69

Dear Eva,

I thought I would write to you. You have asked me to write to you. We are all well. I have

keep putting it off so many times, so today after I came home from church I told Mamma I was

going to write. Mamma is writing to Uncle Jim's wife today in Fort Collins.

Are you well? I will put in a piece of paper and if you will write a verse on it I will put it in my

autograph album. I will have to close my letter and will write more next time, with love and kisses

to you all.

Write soon to me, from your niece, Myrna Boyd

Letter 53

Date: 25 March 1902

From: Willis Gorton Boyd; Loveland, Colorado

To: Evelyn Gorton Boyd; Marion, Ohio

My Dear Sister Eva,

I came very near saying my little sister. I don't suppose you would like that would you? I was

very glad to hear from you. I thought a year ago that I would see you before now, when I last saw

Edward at Rawlins, Wyoming. I was expecting to sell out my business here and if I had, you

would have been bothered to death with all three of us for a while. Wouldn't that have been a

surprise! But I could not leave so Harry sent you a paper. Well Eva, you must not believe all you

read in the papers as they are prone to exaggerate. Neither are you to take much stock in what

people tell you as "Distance lends enchantment to the Subject". I remember Mrs. Silverthorne

very well, 80 years old, my! That seems old to me and did you ever think that I am on the shady

side of 40! 42 years old my last birthday. But a few years more and then what?

Eva, if I can live and be as good a man as our father was, I will have no fear of the hereafter (if

there is one). You cannot remember much about him can you? I trust that you and the rest of us

may never have the trials and disappointments to contend with that our father and mother had. I

can remember it so well, so vividly before my eyes now. That old frame house, by the lake

modeled after Aunt Pattie's house (as it was when we left Ohio) but never finished. How we used

to hug the stove to keep warm. At times, how little we had to keep us alive. And father ever

pleasant, patient, and forbearing. No Eva, I never can forget those winters in the 70's. And then

when you came (our only sister) everything was looking brighter and the last few years of their

lives was not quite so hard.

Well Eva, it appears as if I were in a retrospective mood today, but I often feel in that way.

70

And my dear sister, I want to say to you that as long as your conduct you live and actions,

agreeable to the teachings of our dear mother, and that good woman who has been all that a

mother could be to you, who has had the training of your mind from youth to womanhood (the

most imprint period of your life). You can not be otherwise than a good and true woman. I have

often felt I would like to send for you and have you with us but then the thoughts would come

that it would not be right to take you away from Aunt Pattie after all she had done for you. And

at a time in her life when you can repay her in part at least, for her kindness.

Well, well. If I live another year I will see you all. I do not remember Mr. Young. Lizze and

the children are all well and happy. We have quite a house full now. I am feeding 200 head of

cattle for beef and it keeps 2 extra men busy and a hired girl so that makes 11 in the family. We

have had a very mild winter. Cattle have done exceedingly well. It is raining today, the first rain

we have since October last. It will likely turn to snow before morning. Well it will be of immense

benefit to the crops and grass. My business like all others has its ups and downs, its bright days

and dull ones. Just now it is rather dull. Always is at this time of year.

The picture was taken in December. I will send you a correct likeness in a few weeks. Now do

not take seriously what the "lady from Loveland" told you about me, as you know "ill news travels

fast". Well! I did not intend to let you know I had any curiosity in regard to this strange lady, but

I am afraid the" cat is out of the bag now! I have been reading your letter over. You say you often

think 'how little you know of myself and family.' Well my dear little girl, (I see you sign yourself

that way so I guess it will be all right) we will try and become better acquainted from now on.

Well, what do you think of this long letter? Have wrote a good deal and have not said much

either. We intend to have a picture of our home taken this spring and will send one to you and

Aunt Pattie. Well Eva, good-by for this time and do not think because I write but seldom that I

do not think often of you as there is never a day about what I thinks of the two absent ones, Eva

and Edward.

With love to yourself and Aunt Pattie. I remain, you affectionate brother, Willis G. Boyd

Letter 54

Date: 24 August to 1 September 1903

By: Evelyn Gorton Boyd

A Trip to Rockies

Monday, August 24, 1903. A lovely morning. Got up early and ironed right after breakfast.

Then got some things ready for over mountain trip which we will start on tomorrow. It rained

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hard this afternoon. Laura and I went to town on the wagon with Harry and Ray. I stopped at

the shop to see Willis. Then we went back and packed our grips and boxes and went to bed.

Tuesday, August 25, 1903. A beautiful day and my 24th birthday. We got up early and I

packed our dinner while Laura washed dishes. Harry loaded the wagon and the crowd started for

the Rockies. Harry and Laura in the front seat, Myrna, Ray and I in the next and the end of the

wagon packed full. Myrna and I wore big straw hats with a red handkerchief around them and

one around our necks. Ray got us the kerchiefs. We saw lots of beautiful scenery all the way and

reached Simmon's Saw Mill in time to camp for the night. Our wagon broke in one canyon. It

was late when we got supper so went to bed pretty quick.

Wednesday, August 26, 1903. A lovely day. Woke up early but didn't get up till 7. Harry had

breakfast ready. Took a walk after breakfast then washed dishes. Mrs. Gaultry and Bert came

along so camped near us. He and Ray went fishing and we women went to the saw mill and the

store, bought some stick candy and milk. Then went down to the creek and stayed awhile then

took a walk. Went back to camp and took our watermelon to the spring to get cool. Harry fixed

the wagon and he and Laura got dinner. We did the dishes then drove two or three miles up the

canon. Harry, Ray and Bert fished down and we went back to camp with the wagon. The boys

soon came and we had supper. Went to bed at 9 p.m.

Thursday, August 27, 1903. Another beautiful day. Bert Gaulty took a picture of us and our

camp. We had breakfast, did the dishes and packed. Ate lunch at 11 and started for Estes Park

right after. We had not gone far when our wheel broke so Harry fixed it the best he could. We

went on and walked up the steep hills. We reached Mr. Goodwin's place about 4 p.m. so camped

on his land near the creek. Ate supper and went to bed early. Was nearly froze all evening.

Friday, August 28, 1903. A nice day and warmer than yesterday. Harry had breakfast ready

when we got up. After the dishes were done, Myrna and I lay down in the sun to get warm. Then

we walked up to Mrs. Goodwin's and stayed a while. Went back to camp and had dinner. At 3:30

p.m. Elsie came to camp with the burros. She and Myrna rode one and I the other. Went over to

Mrs. Bryant's and back. Then we started out for the cows. Went up a mountain aways. Where it

got too steep we had to walk. Sent the cows home and took a nice long ride. Got back to camp at

7 p.m. Ate supper and sat by the campfire. Harry sang for us. Went to bed at 10 p.m.

Saturday, August 29, 1903. A lovely day, had breakfast rather late. We had rabbit and fish for

breakfast. Ray shot the rabbit yesterday. Hustled around, washed dishes and packed ready to

move on. Left the Goodwin camp about 10:30 a.m. 12 noon eating lunch just a little this side of

the park gate. Reached the post office about 3 p.m. Drove a long ways to find a camping place

and had begun to unload when the owner of the land came by and said he didn't want campers.

72

That meant move on which we did. We found a place after trying two or three. It was dark when

Harry and Ray got the tent pitched. Ate supper late and sat around the campfire awhile. Then

went to bed. Stiff from the burro ride.

Sunday, August 30, 1903. Still another beautiful day. We women folks got up late this

morning. Harry had breakfast ready. Myrna and I did the dishes then lay around awhile. Soon

after breakfast, Myrna and I fished awhile. I lifted a big one out of the water but it dropped off

the hook. Ray and I fished together awhile. He caught one. After dinner, we all took a ride. It

was 7 p.m. when we returned from the ride. We "kids" ate a lunch and we all sat around the

campfire till bed time. Feel like a person 80 years old.

Monday, August 31, 1903. An ideal day. Got up a little earlier. Harry had corn cakes, ham,

bacon, coffee ready for us. We ate till we couldn't eat any more. At 9 a.m. Myrna, Ray and I

started to climb a mountain. We climbed until we were nearly to the top but too tired to go on.

Ray shot a rabbit. We started down at 10:45 after resting a few minutes and reached camp at 12. I

took a shawl out on a big flat rock and lay down until dinner was ready which was not long. As

soon as dinner was over, we started for a ride. Went to Marine Park, Sprague's Hotel, the

Highlands and passed the English Hotel. Had a fine ride and reached camp at 7:30 p.m. I made

cocoa for us kids but the old folks didn't eat any supper. Went to bed about 9 p.m.

Tuesday, September 1, 13. A lovely day. Little warmer than usual. Still pretty stiff. Had early

breakfast, did dishes and broke camp. Started for Loveland at 9 a.m. Walked up part of Park Hill

to help the houses. At it's highest point we were 8,484 feet above sea level. Ate dinner at 1 p.m.

on the porch of a cabin. Shot Ray's gun twice and it kicked. Went over Pole Mountain and Bald

Mountain. Had to walk a little. Ray shot another rabbit. Harry sang and we all sung a little.

Reached home in the moonlight at 9 p.m. Unloaded and Harry took Myrna and Ray home. We

all went to bed pretty quick. Had a better bed than our family bed had been. We made our bed

clear across the tent and Laura slept in the middle with Myrna and I on one side and Harry and

Ray on other.

Letter 55

Date: 18 May 1906

From: Martha Ann (Boyd) Peters; Marion, Ohio

To: Evelyn Gorton Boyd and Myrna Elizabeth Boyd; Loveland, Colorado

A.M. May 18, 1906

Dear Evelyn and Myrna,

73

Do not think that the old adage "out of sight, out of mind" is to be applied to you. But to tell

the truth, our time has been more than full since you left and although we speak of you often, I

have not found just the time to write.

Three trips to the Doctor every week, which means the best part of the day, trying to do some

sewing, company and sickness have been the order of the day. Friday after you left Jesse, Ethel

and Mrs. Clark's father spent the day with us. Fanny was not feeling at all well with sore throat

and after they left she went to bed with a temperature of 102 and was not up until Sunday.

Charles, Clark and Jesse took dinner with us Sunday. Ella went away Sunday morning at 6 and

did not get back until Monday. We got along nicely thought, Fanny got up at ten o'clock and

Charles came home at 2 p.m. Sunday. The boys waited up late and everything passed off very

smoothly and without giving a Fanny a backset. Dr. Booth came to the house and gave her three

treatments, which relieved her very quickly. I have been well with the exception of a cold and sore

throat. I sent for him Sunday evening and he broke my cold right away. Charles and Fanny and

the children went out to Kennedy Sunday afternoon. I did not feel able to go and went to bed

instead, but was all right by the next morning.

I have no doubt you are having a fine time and it will do you both good to get out driving. I

have been helping Fanny with Eleanor's sewing and we have her wardrobe nearly done. I think I

shall go home next week. James and Eleanor have some swelling of the throat which the Doctor

thought was mumps. Either the treatment the Doctor gave has made the attack very light or else

it is not mumps, but time will tell. It the other children do not have it, Fanny and I talk of going

to Hamilton Tuesday morning and I will take the afternoon train home. I wrote to have Mrs.

Hem clean and open up the house. Fanny had a letter from Fred. He said Pearl left them for

good last Saturday.

John asks every day, "when are you going home,Grandmother" and "I'm going with you" is

the next thing. I expect there will be a time with him when I do go. The boys have gone to some

church entertainment's. Eleanor and John are in bed. Fanny is lying on the lounge asleep and I

am nearly asleep myself. Remember me to Lilly and husband and Mrs. Silverthome when you see

her again. When do you think of going to Marion or have you though of it yet? Well, good bye.

Your loving aunt, M. A. Peter

Letter 56

Date: April 1907

From: Raymond Joseph Boyd, Muskrat Creek, Wyoming

To: Evelyn Gorton Boyd; Marion, Ohio

74

My Dear Aunt Eva,

I now have in receipt your 2 letters of March 16 and April 4 and will try and make one good

letter answering them both as I don't know when I may have a chance to write again. I may not

get this to the post office til sometime the last of the week but I must write now while I have the

time. We moved out here Tuesday and now have 21 twelve inch tile made and 1 thirty-six inch

tile, and will be at it for some time before we get through. Four horses left camp yesterday and

Ab Harrison is out after them this morning. It is snowing to beat the and but I think it won't last

long.

You had ought to see this neck of the woods. Is It is so dry out here and so much alkali that a

snipe won't be caught living in this creek. The only thing that does live out here is rattlesnakes

and they don't know any better. The wind blows so hard that they don't put glass in the window

and one has to keep dodging to keep from getting knocked down by the cobblestones that blow

up and hit you all over. Even the birds look like they were ashamed of themselves for living in a

land like this. Shoshonie is about 12 miles south of the Big Horn Canyon which goes through the

Owl Creek Range into the Big Horn Basin and I am about 15 miles So. of Shoshonie.

Shoeshonie is on the north western line which was built to Lander 3 years ago and runs along the

south edge of the Shoeshonie Indian Reservation. The Big Horn River is called the Wind River

along the canyon and is that way on all the maps, so you can see how it is. I certainly will go and

see the Park if I get a chance and I think I will some time this fall. I am going up to the head of

Big Wind River as soon as this job is done and will then see Jackson Hole where all the bandits

hold out. I think dad will come up here this fall and then I can show him the range and the

farming possibilities on the reservation.

I have made up my mind to be working for Ray inside of 2 years at something of my own. It is

almost a sure thing that a sugar factory will be built her in the near future and I am going to

either lease a section of Indian land or run a bunch of cattle on Upper Wind River or go to

Loveland and start a cement tile and block factory. I think I would like the farming 640 acres

much the best but it would take more capital than any one of the others. The tile factory would

take the least money but would also be slow to grow into a good paying business. If I could leased

640 acres of Indian land and a factory be built here, I could be a rich man in 10 to 15 years. This

stock business would also make one independent in 5 or 6 years and I think the cement business

would do almost as well. The chances are good here but it takes a good bit of money or credit and

lots of push.

I don't know weather I thanked you for sending that pretty girl or not and she must have been

delayed and I didn't get her til just before I left Collins. I think you will have had a picture by the

75

time this gets to you. I had them taken in Loveland and the folks were to send you one.

Now for the next letter. Every one talks about snow, snow, snow and this is the first we have

had since I came and it is as bright as can be now, the sun is shining. I suppose you got your bail

of cotton from rail car - Saw all OK. When I get settled as I am now, I am out on the block and

barrier, alkali wind swept, sand covered, sun choked hills of central Wyoming about 15 miles

south of the measly, dirty, unkempt city of Shoeshonie and believe me I do like the country.

I am with Aunt Edith's brother Ab Harrison but will go to her place at the head of Wind

River as soon as these tile and I am in. I will try and send you a map with this railroad in it

sometime soon and make a mark on the hillside to show you where I am.

Talk about delays, this letter may not get to the post office. for 10 days or more but I am

going to seal it up and never read it over for if I do, I would think it so crazy that I would banish

it and not get another for a month of years started to you. I received a card from Magora the

other day but that I don't amount to much and there isn't any girls up here so you see I am lost

forever. Will H. is out in Idaho and wants me to come out there to get strong again? I guess not!

You want to get over that tired feeling and feel like I do, as happy as a lark and feel as strong as

Samson. I don't think I could tell you where I am "at" because I am nowhere or at any rate I think

it is nowhere. Next time I write the grass will be growing fine and if the weather is good I will get

out on the hills and write you a 14 page magazine and try not say much bad things about the

country.

With Love, Ray.

Answer soon and will try and do the same.

Letter 57

Date: 8 September 1907

From: Harry Barton Boyd; Estes Park, Colorado

To: Evelyn Gorton Boyd; Marion, Ohio

Dear Sister,

Your welcome received in due time but have been so busy, have not had time to write. But the

season is about over now I think. I have done very well this summer have had to work pretty hard

and was very near sick in August but am feeling much better now. Will get out more and will

gain what I lost. The weather has been very nice here this summer and there was more tourist

here this season than ever. William Stanley, the auto man, is going to build $l50,000 hotel here

his winter and next summer so you see the park is growing.

76

Well as for news, I do not know any. Have not heard from Loveland but once and Willis was

up once and stayed 2 days and did not get to see him long. Have not heard from Edward since

the letter I sent you. Enclosed find picture of Calimhires(?) I gathered and sent to Loveland and

the trout Louise and papa caught is 23 inches long and weighs 5 lbs. Pretty good fish for the

Thompson.

I will close for this time with love to all and kin, for my dear sister, your loving brother, Harry

Letter 58

Date: 3 November 1908

From: Willis Gorton Boyd; Loveland, Colorado

To: Evelyn Gorton Boyd; Marion, Ohio

My Dear Sister,

I got home last night and found your telegram informing me of your safe arrival in Marion.

Hope you had a pleasant trip. I had a very good trip only it was cold and snowy. I bought 480

head of cattle and had to move them 30 miles to the railroad. The first 12 miles was through

from 2 to 4 feet of snow. We have a bunch of saddle horses (about 50 head) in front of the cattle

to break a trail so the cattle could get through. Finally got them to the RR and on the cars and

started for home on Friday evening. Unloaded them at Laramie City, Wyoming to feed and rest

them, and while there sold all of them. So I came home without any cattle but they made me

some money and as that is what I was after I am satisfied with my journey. If I can make a few

more trips as profitable, I will surely see you again next spring (when you have good weather).

I leave this P.M. for eastern Colorado after 200 steers for the feed lot. I may sell them before I

get home. Sure will if they will make me some money. I hope you found Aunt Pattie and Fred

well and hearty, also Fanny and the children. Ray will have his beets all in tonight and will soon

be ready for Collins. We are having the finest kind of weather now. Just like September only a

little cooler nights.

With love to you. Your brother, W.G. Boyd

Letter 59

Date: 14 May 1909

From: Willis Gorton Boyd; Loveland, Colorado

To: Evelyn Gorton Boyd; Marion, Ohio

77

My Dear Sister,

Your card received a few days ago. Yes it has been some time since I wrote you, but I do very

little writing or reading now. We have had an extremely hard winter. Has been a very disastrous

one for a great many cattle feeders. One of my neighbors lost $22,000. Quite a heavy loss, eh! I

was lucky as I made some money, but not enough to take much of a trip on. So you see it is better

to be born lucky than rich or good looking. Coxey came out ahead also and we were about the

only ones among 50 or 60 engaged in the business that did not lose any money.

I am pleased to hear that Ray writes to you occasionally and hope he will keep up the

correspondence. You write to him regularly if you can. I think he has got down to business now

in good shape. The time he put in this last winter in college done him lots of good. He joined the

YMCA and the associations and training he received there helped him a great deal. I was very

much grieved to have him go away but hope he will have larger opportunities there and then it

was not like going among strangers and of doubtless character and reputations as he is in good

company with Mr. Harrison and his Uncle Andy. I want to try and see him sometime this

summer. I will try and go up there in September but as long as he is there, I want to see him stay

with it. One of Rays greatest faults is that he is a little too ambitious. He is rather inclined to

commence at the top, instead of lower down and mastering all the details as he climbs. He has a

great regard for you and your influence over him during the next few years of his life will do him a

world of good.

Well, we are all well as ever, although those headaches Lizzie has worries me as she has them

oftener and harder. I am afraid it will be like her father. Myrna appears to be doing well at the

hospital. The patients all seem to think a great deal of her. Nellie has studied very hard this last

school year and I would like to send her somewhere during vacation but can hardly spare the

funds this summer. I am trying to sell out here and if I do, will go where I can buy cheaper land

than here. Harry's trip last winter done him a lot of good. When he left here, he could hardly eat

anything and now he eats about anything he wishes. He went to the Park a couple of weeks ago. I

just had a letter for Ray. Says he is well and strong as an ox and is the only one in the bunch that

can throw a sack of cement in the wagon clear from the ground. He got to be quite an athlete

while in Collins at the YMCA gymnasium.

Well this is May 18 and cold enough for an overcoat. I never see it so cold at this time of the

year . Something has gone wrong with our Colorado climate the last year. Sure I haven't seen any

of Aunt Marian's folks for a long while but think she is taking it easier this summer. She rented

her place (her farm) for 3 years at $2000 per year. I may go to Nevada next month to buy cattle

and if I do will try and see Edward. I have not heard from him for a long while. I suppose you see

78

Joe and Eleanor occasionally. Hope they are doing well. I thought last fall that Lizzie and I might

happen down that way this summer for a couple of days but we had to give that notion up

sometime ago. The children are all happy because school will be out next week. This week is

examination week and they are all busy. There is a lot of Rays friends here going to send postal

cards to him on the 5th of June, his birthday. Kind of a postal card shower I believe they call it.

That is on a Saturday and that is the day they come to town after their mail. I trust Aunt Pattie

and all the folks there are in good health.

Give my regards to all and with love to yourself, I remain your brother, Willis G. Boyd

Letter 60

Date: 23 January 1910

From: Susan Catherine (Boyd) Palmer; Baltimore, Maryland

To: Evelyn Gorton Boyd; Marion, Ohio

My Dear Eva,

I was so very glad to get your nice letter telling about the family. So many things had

happened, Fred's marriage. Aunt Pattie wrote that she was a very fine young woman and I hope

has added much to Fred and Aunt Pattie's happiness; his first marriage was a sad one. And then

Myrna has come to live in Marion and hope she has a nice husband and I expect you see a good

deal of her.

You enjoyed, I know, having Fannie and the children at Christmas. Janet and family were

with us and we had a nice time and lots of fun and nice presents. Sue fared very well, so many

cousins who remembered her. She has been to church this morning and has just come in. Is going

to a recital at Peabody Institute this afternoon. She has done finely in her work at the Institute

and is well prepared to take up any branch she wishes. There was a competition, she did not win

the competition but received honorable mention which means second best. She expects to be

graduated next June and I want you to come on. Wish Aunt Pattie could come too. I thought I

would write in time for you to think it over. I wish Jean could come too, but am afraid they feel

that they can't afford the expense.

And I can hardly realize it has been four winters Sue has been here. She has worked faithfully

and industriously. Is off early in the morning and does not get home until late in the afternoon.

She may take some special lessons in "pen and ink" on Saturdays. We have enjoyed having her

with us. She sits with me in the evening sewing and helps me in every way she can, particularly

with the flowers, which are lovely this winter.

79

I am sorry to say poor little Eleanor Burt's daughter is ill with rheumatism suffers very much.

It is so tedious. The other girls and family are well. Edward and Jessie enjoy their dear little cozy

house very much and Jessie is a busy little woman and Edward thinks he knows all about

managing a household, but I think they have a lot to learn yet. Roland Park is growing rapidly.

Edward is doing very well, very busy and his houses are very pretty. Uncle Ned has gone to

meeting but is very well. Uncle Chas and Aunt Jennie are just as nice as ever, Aunt Annie has

rheumatism in her knee so I have not seen her lately. We have had some very sever weather this

winter; sold and big snow storms, a big one on Christmas day. I still have Adie living with me, as

faithful and grand as ever and Martha is still the cook and I certainly have had a comfortable

winter. My dear love to Aunt Pattie. Tell her she will get a letter from me very soon now.

Hoping that you can plan to visit this spring with love I am affectionately, Aunt Sue

Letter 61

Date: 20 February 1910

From: Willis Gorton Boyd; Blackfoot, Idaho

To: Nellie Eloise Boyd; Loveland, Colorado

Letterhead: The Cottage Inn, M.E. Boyd & Co.

Miss Nellie Eloise Boyd, Loveland, Colorado

My Dear Girlie,

You will notice by this letterhead that I must have got around home before I realized it. This

is a fine little hotel and the best looking town I have been in since I left Colorado. I haven't met

anyone I knew since leaving Denver until I got here. There are several people here from Loveland

that I know. Met Volly Van Bramer last night. Telephoned him from Montpelier that I was

coming. He met me at the train at midnight. So as I am stopping at the Boyd's and several people

here I know. I feel more comfortable. Don't seem like a strange land and all strangers.

Its is snowing hard right now and don't look as if it would quit. There has been only one day

since I have been in this country without snowing. Blackfoot is a right nice little town about the

size of your favorite town. You know it, can't tell when I will get out of this country. Am waiting

for cars to load cattle I have bought. I wish I was at home with you all, than be wandering around

from place to place.

I suppose some of you are getting ready for Sunday School. I wish you would all go to Sunday

School and church more than you do. I often wonder how Mama is. I wish we could do

something to make it easier for her. You girls must help her all you can. I suppose you have heard

80

from Myrna since I left. It seems like I have been away an age. Well I see Volly Van Bramer

coming so will have to cut this off short and go with him. Tell Ray to stuff those cattle all he can

and try to get the place cleaned up some. Tell Louise, Zeta and Andy hello and I will try and

write in a few days. I hope Momma is well.

With love to you all, your father, W.G. Boyd

Am going for a sleigh ride. Won't you join? I know you would like it.

Letter 62

Date: 8 July 1917

From: Willis Gorton Boyd; Denver, Colorado

To: Myrna Elizabeth (Boyd) Williams

My Dear Myrna,

Your letter of recent date received yesterday. We were sure all glad to hear from you. You are

certainly having quite and experience and it will undoubtedly be of great benefit to you in the

future. Don't you think though you had better layoff a while and come home for a spell and good

rest? I know it must be nerve racking work and I don't see how anyone can keep it up indefinitely.

You write about going on to see New York. The fever of wanderlust must be getting in your

blood. Of course travel, I think is good for anyone as it gives one a broader view of life, and to a

certain extent is an education but don't go so far away you can't return. I sure was worried at not

hearing form you for so long.

Dear Myrna, don't think that I forget you. I think of you every day and to a certain extent I

understand what you have borne since your marriage and since Horace's death. I know your mind

has been uneasy and you work and work and try to look at the brighter side of live but at times

the past looms up before you and the happiness you expected to have and is gone, makes you feel

as if life was not worth the living. But Myrna dear, you must banish such thoughts from your

mind, remember that! He who called your soul to life does all things for the best. While His ways

are inscrutable to the minds of men, we must accept them and hold fast to our appointed duties

here on earth, doing the best we know how according to our several abilities. Ever bearing in

remembrance that when we are about to quit this life, we shall hear the welcome word, 'Well

done, thou faithful servant. Enter thou into the blessings of thy Lord.' You have a work to do, to

relieve the weary, aid the distressed and comfort the unhappy and to my mind one of the noblest

works of mankind. And I do not doubt, but you will find happiness and peace of mind. I know

that everyone wherever you go, thinks a lot of you and you must not let the ghost of old memories

81

dishearten you, but ever look forward to a better time coming. We all have our trials and

tribulations that we have to put up with and we must accept them with the best of spirit.

Yes Myrna, we have a good deal to be thankful for the last year. And especially for Louise. I

am going to Loveland tomorrow after Momma and Louise and will take your letter up with me

and then they can answer all your questions as soon as they get home. May not return before

Tuesday afternoon. This is Sunday you know. Aunt Eva, Nellie, Peggy and I are all that sat down

to dinner rather, a small family for us. Ray has worked hard all summer. Had a hard time getting

in the crop on account of so much wet weather and then it has turned so dry and he has had

trouble with the irrigation plant. I sure feel sorry for him but I don't know how I would have

gotten along without his help on the farm. But am sure going to sell that place and buy one that

is easier handled. Ray looks rather thin and worn out with work and worry. Nellie got her

position through some friends of mine at the stock yards. It does not pay very well and only last

about 3 months but may lead to something better. It is sure a healthful occupation. I think it pays

her $50 per month. She works from two P.M. until nine P.M. every day except Friday.

I am glad to say we are all enjoying good health. Andy, I think, is getting all right and is

working for the man that bought Uncle Jim out. By the way, Tottie was married a short time ago

to Mr. Pease, the man that bought Jim out. I want to thank you for the picture you sent me

sometime ago and hope before long to see the original of it here in Colorado. Come west instead

of east Myrna. Don't you think that would be best. Well, well, what a long letter. The most I

have written at one time for years. It has been hot and dry for a month but looks like rain today

and is cool and nice. When I am here I generally take Nellie to her work and go after her at

night. Now dear, I hope to see you out here before long.

With love and best wishes for you, lovingly, your father, W. G. Boyd

Letter 63

Date: 5 May 1918

From: Andrew Frank Boyd;

To: Myrna Elizabeth Boyd; Colorado

May 5, 1918

Dear Myrna,

Here goes for a short letter and then to dinner but will write all I can til then.

82

This is some country; the wind blows all the time but I feel fine and am going stay if I can. We

have Saturday P.M. and all day Sunday off and they feed us fine; all we can eat. Don't know

when I will get to come back on a furlough.

May be in New York before long. We won't stay there long they say. Well, can't write much

for haven't the time but will do better next time. So goodbye with lots of love,

Your Brother Andrew

P.S. Tell the girls I met hello for we will sure need them the way the gunners work around her.

Letter 64

Date: 20 May 1918

From: Andrew Frank Boyd;

To: Myrna Elizabeth Boyd; Colorado

May 20

My Dear Sister,

Your letter came and sure glad to receive it. Got three letters from home today and sure makes

me feel better. I haven't much time to write for it is getting to dark but will do my best.

We are all billeted for France and are all ready to go. Think we will go about Saturday; it will

take about 3 weeks to get across the water. But sure glad I am going, for I am in it; know I will do

my part. I am in the Machine Gun Comp. 354 Infantry and they sure are putting us with a long.

Will say good night and try to let you know where I am as I go along. So good bye and lots of

love, your Brother,

Si

Letter 65

Date: 31 May 1918

From: Andrew Frank Boyd; Camp Mills, Long Island, New York

To: Myrna Elizabeth Boyd; Colorado

May 31, 1918

Long Island

My Dear Sister,

83

Here I am a long way from home and feeling fine but won't be here long. Your card came

today from Camp Firston and sure glad to receive it. We are having some rain here and looks like

more. I sure liked the look of Ohio and when I get a map I will show you the route we took; they

showed us all the big cities they could. I will be gone across the water when this letter gets there

for they won't send it til we are across. We have 24 hr off in New York before we go and sure am

planning on a good time.

I just happen to be a going a part the way Y.M.C.A. and was thinking of you and the girls so

though I would write and tell you all hello and how is Miss Loveland. I can't write on this old

board so will ring off. With lots of love to you and the girls for we will need a lot of them (R.N).

So goodbye dear til next time,

Camp Mills, Long Island

Letter 66

Date: 7 Jul 1918

From: Andrew Frank Boyd; Somewhere in France

To: Raymond Joseph Boyd; Colorado

July 7, 1918

My Dear Brother,

Here goes for a free line so you will know I am still going. Received your letter a few days ago,

two from Myrna and a card and a letter from Mother. Our mail comes by bunches but sure glad

to get it that way. I sent mother my identification number but will send it to you also 2186834.

I can't tell you the kind of gun we have but it sure is a good one and I sure can make it pop. It

is hot here in the daytime and cold at night; a lot like Colorado. I sure will be glad when this war

is over and I get back home and see you all and get back in that saddle for over here it is walk,

walk, walk. But kid, I will be some man and can do all kinds of work and I sure will. And don't

worry about me for I can take care of myself her and when it comes to fighting I will be there.

We are all wanting to get at them for we are over here to free the old USA and we are going to do

it.

Well I will try to tell you how they farm over here. They do most of the work by hand and

when they work horses it is one at the time and when they work two they put one ahead of the

other one. They plant one patch of grain, about on acre, then another one so they can cut one

patch before the other one is ready. They cut it by hand.

84

Well kid, I will have to ring off and get to work and will try to do better next time. I can't tell

you much for they won't let me but if I do come back I sure will have lots to talk about so

goodbye kid and good luck till next time and let all of them see it and was sure glad to get

Your Brother

Private Andrew F. Boyd

MG. Com 354 Infantry

American Expeditionary Forces

Letter 67

Date: 3 September 1918

From: Andrew Frank Boyd; With the A.E.F., somewhere in France

To: His sister; Colorado

Sept 3, 1918

My dearest Sister,

As I sat on my bunk all alone

I received your dear letter from home

And pictures, they were so good too

They gave me the homesick blues.

All those girls of the American race

Brought me back to the dear old states.

But I must forget the dear old states

And the big old war I must face.

I came over here to do my part

And I am going to do it with a happy heart.

We are not very far from the line

And some day we'll be on the Rhine.

I have gone over a lot of water and land

To put into the fight my best hand.

85

Well it is getting a little cold

and I'll have to go down in my hole.

And there is my gun all nice and clean

To wake the Kaiser out of his dream.

And now it is too dark to write

So will ring off for tonight.

Give my love to one and all

An I hope to see you before next fall.

Your loving brother, Private. Andrew F. Boyd

M.G. COM. 354 Infantry, American Post office 761, A.E.F.

Letter 68

Date: 29 September 1918

From: Andrew Frank Boyd; With the A.E.F., somewhere in France

To: Margaret Elizabeth (Cross) Boyd; Colorado

Sept 29, 1918

Somewhere in France

Dear Mother,

Here goes for a short letter so you will know I am still feeling fine and happy. It is getting

quite cold her now and rains al little every day. But as I said before, I have dry clothes and all I

want to eat so the rain and the cold don't hurt me and I have a good sweater from the Red Cross

and don't want to pack so much so will have two good ones when I get home.

I am getting lots of mail now; a letter from you today and a card from Myrna and five days ago

a letter from you, Ray, Myrna, Ava and a lot more.

You can see by the paper what we are doing better than I can tell you. You wanted to know if I

had money, well I have lot of it and no place to spend it, so will send it home the first place I get

to that is the YMCA.

I haven't seen Newell for about two weeks but see Sam quite often but heard that Newell was

all OK and feeling fine. Some one of these days we will be back and then I can talk to him and it

86

sure seems good to talk to one from your hometown. And say when we get home will have some

time and talk day and night for I say there is a better day coming.

Well I am going to cut it out and go to work and try to write next week and tell you more. So

goodbye and good luck to one and all and tell them all to write; they have more time than I.

Your Loving Son,

Private Andrew F. Boyd

MG Comp 354 Infantry

APO 76

American Expeditionary Forces

Letter 69

Date: 5 October 1918

From: Andrew Frank Boyd; With the A.E.F., somewhere in France

To: Zita Peggy Boyd; Colorado

Somewhere in France

5 Oct. 1918

My Dear Peggy,

Well old Peg, how are you and what are you doing and why don't you try and write. I have a

little time so will tell you what I know. Am getting lot of mail from home now, but not too

much. Wrote a letter to mother a few days ago and will write to Louise next. I have so many to

answer.

It has been cool here and lots of rain. I see Newell some time but see Sam quite often and he

sure is a fine fellow. I am feeling fine and that is about all one can ask for. I haven't see any of the

Battery A boys although there are a lot of them around here and some day I am going to see if I

can find the boys. This is a better looking country here then where we were, for France has some

pretty country.

I see where they are going to draft from 18 to 45, that will get Jay but hope he will never have

to come over. And he won't if we keep them going like we are now. That will get Uncle Andy

too, won't he make some soldier? Peg won't we all have some big time when we all get back. Well

I am going to ring off and get this letter on the way for I know you are looking for it. Tell Berta

and Roman hello for me. So good- bye Peg for I am going to try and get a little sleep before I go

again.

Your loving brother, Private Andrew F. Boyd

87

Letter 70

Date: 19 November 1918

From: Andrew Frank Boyd; With the A.E.F., somewhere in France

To: Myrna Elizabeth Boyd; Colorado

Nov 19, 1918

Somewhere in France

My Dear Sister,

Well here goes for a short letter to you for I know it is my turn. This is some ruff place to write

but hope you can understand what I am trying to say. We have been having fine days; it tried to

snow last night but could not make it go. Was cool about all day.

I feel fine and it sure is good to go around and no shells to get out of the way from. And to

think I went through all OK.

Received a fine letter from Mrs. J. E. Lauer and some pictures and am going to try and answer

it before long. We are staying in a old villige. It has been shot up some but there is a fine dry

place.

And the way it looks I will be coming home before long. Would like to get there in time to

help Ray in his farming work.

Poor Newell, I sure would like to have him to go back with but we all could not come back.

Received your letter of Oct 14th, one from mother and A. Florence and yes, I am getting the

papers too. Will the light is about gone so will have to ring off. And when I get home I sure will

talk. I can talk better than I can write. So good night and give my best to all.

Your loving brother Your Brother

Andrew F. Boyd

MG. Com 354 Infantry

APO 761

American Expeditionary

Letter 71

Date: 12 December 1918

From: Andrew Frank Boyd; With the A.E.F., somewhere in Germany

To: Myrna Elizabeth Boyd; Colorado

Dec 12 - 1918

88

Somewhere in Germany

My Dear Sister,

Well here I have a little time and will try and answer you letter. We are in a German town;

have a nice place to stay and feeling the best ever. And the people sure are fine to us. I don't know

how long we will stay here but this is the best place I have been in for a long time.

Got a long letter from Tony Timpte and a long one from Mother. We don't get much mail

now as we are on the go about all the time. But think we will be here for some time. This is a big

rail center and a good sized place. And the way they are talking it may not be long til we are on

the way home.

Sure would like poor Newell to go back with me You know ---- --- from Loveland, he was

killed too. There was sometimes I didn't know if I was coming home for they sure did come close

to me; but some how I came through all OK.

So someday you may see me back in Cheyenne but not the man that left you that day. If I can

find the time I will try to send you a picture for I am sure fat. Well good night and hope to see

you before long.

Your loving brother

Andrew F. Boyd

MG. Com 354 Infantry

American Expeditionary

APO 761

Letter 72

Date: 22 January 1919

From: Andrew Frank Boyd; With the A.E.F., Neuerburg, Germany

To: Zita Peggy Boyd; Colorado

22 Jan.1919

Dear Sister Peg,

Well, I am wondering what you are doing tonight. Just came up from town so thought I

would send you a free line. The pen sure is no good but if you can't read it I will for you when I

come home. That won't be long.

Sam was out horseback riding, but watch me do some when I get hold of a horse. It sure gets

cold here but very little snow. Sam read today that we would be home before school was out. I

89

would like to get back in time to help Ray do his spring work. And say Peg, I sure would like to

see Robert, I bet he is some kid.

How is Rosemary? She was sick the last time you wrote. Tell her hello and sure hope she

recovered all OK And tell Berta hello too. Well Peg, I am going to ring off till next time. Oh yes,

I got a letter from Uncle Andy and a book too. That sure was fun and that gum you sent some

time ago was sure thoughtful of you. I am feeling fine and getting so fat. So good-bye for this

time and hope to see you before long.

Your loving Brother, Si.

Private Andrew F. Boyd M.G. Comm. 354 Infantry, American Expeditionary Forces A.P.0.

761.

Letter 73

Date: 22 February 1919

From: Andrew Frank Boyd; With the A.E.F., Trier, Germany

To: Myrna Elizabeth Boyd; Colorado

In Trier Germany

Feb 22 1919

Dear Sister Myrna,

Well as I leave the hospital today thought I had better write to you for I don't know how much

time I will have when I get back. It sure looks like spring is here at last and sure glad too for we

had some cold days. I am feeling fine and getting along all OK.

I don't know when we will start for home but don't think it will be long. There isn't much to

write about; all they talk about is home all the time. When I was in line for my dinner some one

called me my name and there was Roy Foster of Battery A. He is from Loveland and sure was

glad to see him. He is on his way for the good old USA. I don't know where my Com. is up. I

will find them. They may be back in France by now.

Well Myrna, I have to go to supper and then mail this letter and will write again when I get

back to my comp. Lots of love to you and all,

Your loving brother Your Brother

Andrew F. Boyd

MG. Com 354 Infantry

American Expeditionary Forces

90

APO 761

(Written on Red Cross stationary)

Letter 74

Date: 27 February 1919

From: Andrew Frank Boyd; With the A.E.F., Trier, Germany

To: Willis Gorton Boyd; Denver, Colorado

Trier Germany

Feb 27 - 1919

My Dear Father,

Received your letter a few days ago so will try and answer it. We are still in Trier Germany and

have a fine place to say; also have a pass so can go down town any time I am off duty. No Papa, I

never read much about the fighting but I was there all right and you know I can talk better than I

can write. I was in the Saint Mehil drive and also in the Argonne Forest battle too and that was a

bad one. And I had some very close calls but I can tell you about them better than I can write.

And about Sam Cook; I don't know when or where he was killed. The last time I saw him was

about Sep the 19th after the Saint Mihill drive. He was feeling fine and looked good too but was

killed in the Argonne battle; the same one Newell Sheids was killed. Well you see we all could

not come back and at times I thought I was one that would have to stay.

I see by the paper tonight that the 89th would sail in June so will be home for 4th July dinner.

I sure hope so. We are getting some good beef now but don't know if it is pulp fed or not and it

may have come from you feed pens.

And you said how did I like army life. Well it is not so bad now but I did not like it about five

months ago but a man can stand more than he thinks he can when he has to - but I knew that

before.

We don't have much to do; just keep clean and our equipment too. The only thing that we

want is candy and other good things to eat but they haven't it over here. They have no sugar and

very little flour. But I will make up for it when I get home but I can do without it for there has

been a lot of things I would like to have but could not. As I said before, a soldier can stand about

any thing.

Well Papa, will ring off and write a letter to Mother in a few days so you will hear from me

again. With lots of love to you and all.

91

Your loving son,

Andrew F. Boyd

MG. Com 354 Infantry

American Expeditionary Forces

APO 761

Letter 75

Date: 25 March 1919

From: Andrew Frank Boyd; With the A.E.F., Trier, Germany

To: Myrna Elizabeth Boyd; Colorado

March 25 - 1919

My Dear Sister,

Well it is about time I was writing to you. Am still in Tirer Germany and it rains every day. I

don't have to get out in it so I don't care how much it rains for I work in the barns all day. I and

Bill Tomson of Ft. Collins are feeding 46 mules three times a day and then a little on the side so

you see that makes time fly along and it won't be long before I will be home if what we have

heard is so. I heard we would sail in May. Would like to be back in time to see Frontier Days and

think I will. The talk is now that we are going back to the U.S. a month before the division does

to do some parading for the 89th the 254 M. G. Com. And part of the 354 Infantry will parade

in Denver, some class hot day - my new byword.

Well here hope that it is warmer in good old Colorado than it is here for it sure does get cold

here. Will send a couple of cards I got here and will ring some more home and tell Nell I have a

shell for her; some shell too. Gee it is hard to find some thing to write about. I go down town

about three times a week.

The Knights of Columbus, the Red Cross an the YMCA they have shows for us and we can

buy candy and cookies but I am full of candy and cookies and would like the shows better if I had

a nice little girl to go with me, hot dog.

Myrna I will have to ring off for I thin I have done very good and hope I am not far from

home when you receive this letter. So good night and lots of love to you and all.

Your loving brother Your Brother Si,

Private Andrew F. Boyd

MG. Com 354 Infantry

92

American Expeditionary Forces

APO 761

Letter 76

Date: 1 April 1919

From: Andrew Frank Boyd; With the A.E.F., Trier, Germany

To: Zita Peggy Boyd; Colorado

Dear Peg,

Your letter came a few days ago so will answer it. I am going to Coblenz tomorrow for four

days and will try and find Battery A for I think Sam is going too. Was to Paris to the football

game and sure had a fine time. You said that you saw in the paper that we would be home in

June, well I think we will beat that the way it looks now. And you also said not to fall in love with

those horrid German girls, well how about a French girl? Say they are some class. And there are

some horrid U.S. girls for I had one, but not now. But I know more now, but I think I want a

good U.S. girl.

Gee Peg, it is hard to think of what to write about so will ring off and talk to you before long.

So good-bye with lots and lots of love to you and all.

Your soldier brother, Si.

Private Andrew F. Boyd M.G. Comm. 354 Infantry, American Expeditionary Forces, A.P.0.

761.

Letter 77

Date: 23 January 1920

From: Willis Gorton Boyd; Denver, Colorado

To: Myrna Elizabeth (Boyd) Williams

Dearest Myrna,

After so long I am writing you. I am ashamed of myself for not answering your other letter but

somehow I could not find words to express by sympathy for you. I can realize in a dim sort of way

how you felt during the convention in San Francisco and the months between that and the

election. How you would have enjoyed it all if Horace had lived. You and he would undoubtedly

have taken an active part in the campaign.

My dear, you have had so much more sorrow and trouble than the rest of us. I often think of

you and wonder how you manage to retain you cheerfulness. I know a great sorrow, such as you

93

have been through, sometimes makes better men and women than they otherwise would have

been. It seems to refine them and enables them to be more sympathetic and understand the

troubles of others more clearly. Take your mother and I, we have raised a family and as you say,

all good, industrious men and women and no "black sheep" among them. And in all these years

never had any serious trouble or sorrow to come into our lives. I know we owe it all to your

mother, whom I know to be the sweetest, kindest and most loyal woman that ever was a wife and

mother.

And what make me so worried and blue over the present financial situation is that another

year would have put us beyond the need of working so hard and saving everything and every way

we could. I have been looking forward the last few years and figuring that when I was 60 years

old, she and I could have a kind of delayed honeymoon. Could go to Ohio, California and travel

some and enjoy ourselves a little during the remainder of our allotted time. But it seems that fate

or something has will it otherwise. I can't see just now how I will come out of this crash but I

hope at least not to lose everything as some of my friends have. But I know that this last year has

left us $15,000 worse off than a year ago and perhaps more. The next two months will tell the

tale. If we can get our notes on the farm renewed, I think I can handle it, I mean the rest of it.

You can't realize how I appreciate your offer,but Myrna, you've done enough now. I have some

Liberty Bonds I may have to sell. About $1,200 worth and if I do I would rather let you have

them at the discount I would have to take. It would make a good investment for you. Better than

a savings account. A year ago nobody would take the money. Keep it and use it, I don't need it

they would say, but so different now. If these lowering of prices had come more gradually it

would not of been so hard. I guess we will get along some way.

I have just read your last letter again somehow I knew you felt that way about Horace. I you

had felt the opposite you would of talked about it but when one has gone through what you have,

and all you have left is sweet memories and can forget the ugly times, it is a great blessing.

Everyone speaks of you as such a good, sweet woman and many have asked me why you had not

married again. All I could say was I guessed the right one hadn't appeared.

You have a noble profession and am glad to know you are making good. Although I know you

would. Of course I wish you girls all had employment her in Denver where we could be together

but very few families as large as ours are as fortunate as that. It don't seem so far to Griffin, but it

does seem along ways to Hollins V A. Well today is the 27th and I started this letter on the 23rd.

I will be taking Momma to the train in about 20 minutes. She leaves at 9 a.m. this morning for

Fort Morgan to visit a few days with Zeta. She will also stay a day or so at Brush with Aunt

Florence.

94

What we owe on the house is not due for a year yet. I sure want to save it, your mother enjoys

is so much as we all do. Just think, a year ago, we figured (and the bankers figured the same way)

that we were worth $150,000 that is that we had that much property and owed at that time

$50,000 leaving us worth $100,000 net, that is at last years prices. And now being hard pressed to

save it. They have put the interest rates on money so high it is almost impossible to make it.

Interest, taxes and water rent on farm amount to nearly $5000 a year .Two years ago I helped Ray

out with $3000 and last year with $2000, and he had all the farm brought in except $5000. So

you see I run behind each of these years $2500 to $3000. Ray is a good man, a good farmer and

honest, but he likes to try to do too much with the capital we have to work on. Oh well, no use to

burden you with all this. Yes dear I will keep you informed of how things are going. Am going to

see a banker today. Have got to go now, will write more this eve.

January 3Oth. Well I will try and finish this letter tonight. Alice called up about nine o'clock

this morning and asked us out to a chicken dinner. So Louise, Eva, Grandma and myself went

out and enjoyed a fine dinner and have just returned. Expect Momma in form For Morgan

anytime now. She went down Thursday morning I think everything will come out OK. Speaking

about your money. I have 50 shares in the Merchant's Fire Insurance Co. that have a book value

of $28.80 per share. And if I have to sell them it would be a good investment for you at $20 per

share (that is what they are selling for now) and would pay you 5% on the money and be a safe

investment for you. So if I need it, will sell you the Liberty Bonds or the 50 shares, that would be

$1000 for the 50 shares. I will let you know about the 1st of March. Cattle and sheep market

appear to have no bottom. Going down all the time. I have 300 cattle on feed that look as if they

would lose from $12 to $15 per head.

With lots of love to you and thanking you for your kind offer, your affectionate, Father.

Congratulations on you coming birthday. Hoping you will have many more.

95

Letter 78

Date: 20 July 1925

From: Louise Charity (Boyd) Timpte

To: Her sister

My Dear Sister,

You know your nice letter arrived the morning of the 14th and it was lovely and I thank you

heaps. You just forget about any more presents because the love you sent is all I ask for and what I

want.

My Huna was over on the western slope and called me that morning. Then the next day he

went fishing and Thursday we had a lovely mess of rainbow trout. He was away nearly two weeks,

got back yesterday evening and I was surely glad to see him and have him home again. He is glad

you are having a nice vacation.

Back to my birthday. Marie and Mother T. and Willie gave me a bottle of bath salts; I will

save some for you. Them Mamma and Dad a silver dollar and a very sweet card. The message on

it means more to me than any thing money could buy. (Please excuse mistakes, I am thinking too

fast). Then a little picture from Aunt Marie and Aunt Rosa and that evening Myrna, Peg and

Clem got a lovely Baur's cake and some ice- cream and put candles on it and all was so pretty.

They didn't up candles on the ice-cream. )From the way I am mixing things up, I doubt if you

can understand much. I would start all over but guess I better go on while I have time to write).

Mother and Myrna are washing and doing some cleaning in the fruit room and getting ready

to put some cherries and raspberries away that we have put up. I watch the phone and door bell,

do dishes and get lunch. It is rather rainy like, so will have to leave clothes in the rinse until late

or morning. Oh yes, back to my birthday, Peg, Clem, Myrna and I took two coupes and went out

and spent the day with Alice and Ray. It was the second time I had been out to see them since

they moved there in February. We do not call on folks much. Tony had been at the shop nights

and a lot of Sundays, but he always tries to save Wednesday evenings so we can go to church or if

we do not get to church Sunday mornings we go in the evening; I am very grateful that he

understands and is ready and willing to go.

We will always be glad for your company. When you get home Nellie dear, you and I are

going to have a time and room for our work and nothing to interfere with it. I know my Dear,

where my help is and I am holding fast and am so thankful to God and to all. Maybe you and I

can go up to Estes Park and we can have lots of time to study. Aunt Eva and Uncle Harry are so

nice and the morning I left, Uncle Harry told me that I could come up and stay as long as I

wanted. Then he sent word with others who have been there since, that he wants me to come and

96

stay as long as I wanted to. I think that is very nice and I do want to go. Aunt Eva is so sweet and

peaceful, but of course it is some few miles from my Huna, that is why I hesitate. I do want to go

up to Coxie's too and must go or they will feel hurt. They have been after me all summer. Did

you know that Coxie is building at Loveland Heights and the Boyd's are to us it as if were their

very own. Pretty nice?

Peg and Clem left last Thursday and are going to take a trip through Yellowstone Park. We

surely miss Peggy, but am thankful that she can be with us part of the time and we are working

hard to get them to Denver to live. She will be hiking down here when it is time for you to arrive

home, I bet you. Aunt Mag is in Loveland now but think we will get her home soon. She is

lonesome to see all. Myrna is in with her downstairs so you can have the room upstairs with Tony

and I. We are all so glad you are having some rest and the trip up there and back will surely be

wonderful. You must see Glenna and George Green in New York. They are such lovely people

and will be able to show you around a bit I know. Give them my love when you see them. Glenna

and her sisters in California each wrote Mama such lovely letters about granny and all. Uncle

Andy and Aunt Belle have been away for some time just got back the other evening but I haven't

seen them.

Well here I am just finished the lunch dishes and now will get your letter out, then take a rest.

I want to bake a cake later and have breaded chops and macaroni and cheese and tomatoes for

dinner and will have to go to the store for those, so must get busy. Everyone is fine and send you

lots of love. Mother will send addresses you wanted soon.

Love from, Louise and Tony

Letter 79

Date: 26 August 1925

From: Lavitha LaVa Hull; Berthoud, Colorado

To: Andrew Frank Boyd; Rivera, California

Dearest Andy,

You told me to think your letter over, so here is my answer. I can only say this "There is no

one in all the world like Andy to me" and age makes no difference. I couldn't if I really loved you

and when you and Chevy come back to me, ask me if I do and see what I say.

I know you can make me happy dear and I'll never stop trying to do the same and I am glad,

proud and happy my man is a working man, as I think the working class of people are happiest,

so you see I am glad to find a partner that is a real man and one I'll be proud to call my own.

97

I love my card and I read it over and over. I'll not write much more this time only, I am so

happy and now you can stop your letter the way you want to.

Lovingly, your own, Vay.

R.R.l Box 438 Berthoud, Colorado

Letter 80

Date: 12 October 1936

From: Margaret Elizabeth (Cross) Boyd; Denver, Colorado

To: Myrna Elizabeth (Boyd) Williams

Dear Myrna,

I have been busy all this week and as Mattie came home last night, I sure feel relieved, as

Nellie is getting behind in her reports when she tries to help me too. But it was a relief to be

alone for a few hours each day, yet I worked most of that time. But it was quiet. Mattie said you

wanted me to come up but I don't feel equal to it and I want to get things off to Vay. We sent

one box and still have things to fix and send but will get the pads ready in a day or two. A card

from Louise, I'll enclose, and we think they are in Los Angeles this week and a few days first of

week in San Francisco. They were down to San T. Oct. 3rd. I think Tony is looking up business,

hence his going there so often and from that I think they will be home by the end of one month.

Mattie just told me, she told you, Alice had a girl. Mattie didn't know, she had just got a

woman to wash and iron and what else she could do in one day each week. The Boyd's were in

Sunday as Dad got a big beef roast in Longmont and wanted them in and when Alice talked to

Bob, he was coming down Sunday morning and Nellie took him to the 5:15 Boulder bus and he

went back last night. He is working in a soda parlor and likes it very good, but last Friday he

worked from 3 p.m. til 10 p.m. (that's his everyday work). But he was out to a school party Friday

night and didn't get home til 1 a.m. then Saturday had to work til past 12 midnight cleaning up

things, so he was so tired he looked distressed when here. Ray's back still hurts him but is some

better than a few weeks ago. They have another man in prospect if things work out who will live

on the farm and feed the cattle and do odd jobs between times, as Old Al, seems to be failing

quite fast and don't have the pep he did have.

All at their work this a.m. and I want to write a letter to Peg and one to Louise and Tony at

Rivera to let them know Joanne is doing fine; was here yesterday and at Aunt Marie Timpte's all

last Sunday. The old aunts are doing fine since Aunt Marie got over her pleurisy that came

during the storm. I'll write you a card when we get any word from the wanderers. Hope your case

98

is better. Lots of love from all.

Your loving Mamma

Letter 81

Date: 22 October 1936

From: Margaret Cross Boyd; Denver, Colorado

To: Myrna Elizabeth (Boyd) Williams

Dear Myrna,

We have just been waiting for a card or "sumpin" from California but nothing so far this

week. And Mat tie got her wash done Monday and dried OK and have had same kind of weather

as "you alIs" have had and trees -heavy with snow and yellow leaves, broke some more, but not

bad, shrubs -simply crushed. It may stop the beet digging, but will be a help in many other ways

and maybe into the next year . Got your letter of 21st and will paste that address on the box and

let Nellie mail it. It was so icy this morning, she got up early and went out on street car. Still

cloudy and looks like more snow to come down. Nellie came home Monday eve from school and

said about 10 a.m. she begun to chill and her nose run a stream but she got some aspirin tablets

and begun to drink soda water and took 4 tablets by 3:30 p.m. but felt pretty "perk" by time she

got home, and seems OK since. Dad walked all day Monday, came home about 4 p.m. very tired

but got his glass of "lifter" as Peg calls it and took a little rest before eats and we listened to hear

Landon, but he failed to make connections. Dad felt pretty good till this mom 4 o'clock, he called

me to get him some boiled milk and he was up very often and when Nell came down (early) for

her breakfast, I told her. I had asked him if we shouldn't call Dr. Smith, he didn't answer me, so

Nell asked him and he did answer her either, so she called Dr. Smith and told him to stop on his

way downtown. He came near 8 a.m. and did a lot of questioning as to his eats for a few days and

when I told him, we thought it might be flu, he said no, there was a poison infection in bowels

and for him to go to drug store and asks for a dose of castor oil and he could go on about his work

and if he could brake loose a little early today, to come home and rest some.

Rest are plodding on as usual. Joanne didn't go to school Monday a.m. as there was real

streams running along the curbing but soon as it begun to snow the water soon run off and she

went to school in p.m. Last night Nellie had a long talk over the telephone and she said she was

writing a story and called it "Cat and dog". Not a very pretty name and it sounds funny. I can't

remember all she said, she wrote but just 3 or 4 word sentences and Nellie suggested, the dog

might say something to the cat and then the cat answer and then ask the dog something. She said

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"Oh yes, hunky dory, I'll do that and call you again later." But Nellie said grandpa will be going

to bed soon so you better not call tonight and I'll try to see it when I get home tomorrow night,

and she said OK I'll write it tonight.

We may possibly get a card or "sumpin" his p.m. mail then I'll write a card. It is too cloudy to

sew much, so guess I'll try and write Peg a long letter today and get it off on the 6:15 collection in

box at car line. Am sending cards that I don't think you have seen. You can send them on to Eva

if you have time to write her, also send this letter if you want to. I sent her a card last Monday.

I think I better get busy on Peg's letter while I am in the mood to write. Myrna, do you ever

see the Rocky Mountain News? The editorials have been good, better and best so far this week. I

am sending them to Peg and got Mrs. Waters paper to send to Andy. Those editorials are so

honest and humane and worth reading and rereading.

Best Wishes to you and lots of love, Momma

Letter 82

Date: Selections of Her Diary of 1938

From: Margaret (Cross) Boyd; Denver, Colorado

Thursday, January 20, 1938. Leaving for Peg's home in Eureka, California. Cold and clear -

just getting last things packed. Louise and Joanne took Peg and I to train and Nellie with us. We

traveled all night and was just into Utah around 7 a.m. Both feeling "kinder" tired.

Friday, January 21,1938. Still in Utah. Crossed the Salt Lake bridge -30 miles long. The lake

is 30 miles wind, 75 miles wide and 40 feet deep and takes 45 minutes to get across. Travel very

slow. Still quite cold. Got into Nevada during p.m. and traveled very slow during the whole

night. Very mountainous, covered with snow.

Saturday, January 22, 1938. Early a.m. still in mountains but could see we were in California

by the palm trees and eucalyptus trees. As we neared Oakland it got very foggy and couldn't see

much. Raining when Clem left Eureka and he didn't get to Oakland till 1 p.m. Roads bad so he

ate and we started north over the 2 big bridges at 2 p.m. and got a long way on our way and

towards Eureka.

Sunday, January 23, 1938. We left Ukiah 9:30 a.m. Stopped on the way at noon and got eats.

I had vegetable soup, the others salads and coffee. Then through the most winding road with the

tallest tree I ever saw (redwoods). At times streaks of sun peaking through. Got home at 4 p.m. -

found the house nice and warm. I slept at the Cripe's home and coldest sleep I ever had. Got

through OK.

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Monday, January 24, 1938. Peg took Clem to work, then came for me. After I had eats,

unpacked some things then Peg and I slept 2 hours after lunch. Peg talked to her landlady and

she gave me abed in this apartment and such a good warm sleep I had. We drove about the city in

late p.m. to shop and look at flowers. Froze leaves on pansy and other flowers, but all looked fresh

by evening.

Tuesday, January 25, 1938. Some fog this a.m. then comes sunshine for the rest of day. In

p.m. Clem got through early and we took a ride out to see the ocean. Saw lots of dairy cows,

sheep. Shopped on the way home and didn't I sleep that night.

Friday, January 28, 1938. Sunny and clouds. I sleep, rest, wrote letters and did a lot of reading.

Peg and I took Mrs. Cripes to a Bobby Burns concert. Lots of Scotch people that gave Scotch

music and dances. Came home in the rain. ...

Tuesday, February 1, 1938. Still cool and steady gentle rain. Clem came home early and Peg

and I had been shopping. Then we drove about a little and saw a big shipping vessel in the bay.

Such an immense thing and a smaller one just for lumber.

Thursday, February 3, 1938. Rained all night and still at it this a.m. but at 11 a.m. sun is

lighting up the sky and mountains 15 or 20 miles off white with snow. Peg took she and lover to

Presbyterian church to see the ladies quilt, then we went out to get Clem and drove around the

north end of the bay and up on a hill to see the ocean breakers. Sea looked like a big pile of soap

suds and they flew into the air 20 to 40 feet high.

Friday, February 4, 1938. rained all night and still at it this a.m. and very cold but flowers and

shrubs coming out everywhere. When Clem came home this p.m. we three went up the bay a

ways to see the angry waves come in and saw the parts of an old war vessel that went to pieces

years ago on the bay. ...

Thursday, February 10, 1938. Intermittent rain and sunshine. Peg and I drove around a while

this p.m. and saw lumber, lumber and more lumber. shopped some and home and supper at 6:15

p.m. this was a year when February has only 3 moon changes, which only happens about once in

40 years; hence all this freak weather.

Sunday, February 13, 1938. Rained all day except about 11/2 hours. All got up late. Then Peg

and I went to show (Wells Fargo Express) and came home in a rain and found Clem asleep. He

had a head cold.

Wednesday, February 16, 1938. All up early to get Peg and I off to Los Angeles. took bus at 8

a.m. and got to San Francisco 6 p.m. Got eats and went to bed and sleep went and up at 5 a.m. to

take taxi for LA. depot.

Thursday, February 14, 1938. Cold and sunny. Arrived at LA. 6:15 and Andy and Brother

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Jim soon came to take us to Rivera. Visited a while then to bed because Andy is up with the

chickens and at work.

Friday, February 18,1938. Cold and raining. Went over to see Jim and Florence. Stayed all

night and went to the church for dinner. Had a nice time and saw moving picture of Colorado

Canyon, Utah's Bryce Canyon and many other Rocky mountain peaks.

Saturday, February 19, 1938. cold and clear. Spent most of day with Jim and back to Andy's at

night and visited hard and fast. Went shopping and ate all we could hold.

Sunday, February 20, 1938. Clear and warm. Jim came over and we all talked over the estate

and Peg took notes and will write Mr. Henderson. Peg and I took a ride over the place with

Andy.

Monday, February 21, 1938. Clear and cold. Peg did a little wash and she and V ay went to

Whit tier and shopped. Jim and I visited a lot and the Boyd family were all over to supper.

Visited till 9:30 p.m. then I stayed all night and came to Andy's later. Peg and lout and got my

sleeper and Peg's sleeper for the night to San Francisco.

Tuesday, February 22, 1938. Foggy and cool. I stayed with Jim and Florence till 2:30 p.m.

then Peg and I went to Whit tier and got a gas heater for Andy and Vay. I wrote letters and got

all my things ready to pack and took a bath.

Wednesday, February 23,1938. Clear and cold. Sunny p.m. I took the 8 Southern Pacific train

for home. Andy's new stove came and looks fine. Slept fine and got up in Nevada. Road not so

rough as going out.

Thursday, February 24,1938. Somewhere in Nevada. Went out through 12 coaches to

breakfast and ate my lunch at noon from a box Vay and Peg put up. At 6 a.m. at Las Vegas,

Nevada. At 9 a.m. long stop at Calienta to change trains and all train crew. Had 1 hour stop at

Salt Lake 6 to 7 p.m. Snowed on us near noon.

Friday, February 25, 1938. Rawlins at 5 a.m. and Laramie at 6. Snailed along towards Greeley

on the cut off and got home 9:15 a.m. Dad and Louise met me and I rested some then unpacked

my suitcases and to bed early. Glad to be home and Dad looks none too well.

Thursday, March 3 1938. Cold and sunny. Received a wire this morning from Andy. "Repeat,

very high water. All had notice in Rivera to move at 7 p.m. last evening. All of us on ranch and

Uncle Jim's went to Alhambra and spent night. We are OK Don't worry. Let Dad Hull know."

Thursday, March 10, 1938. Pleasant. I am up and getting dinner this eve. Feel very good but

quite weak. Dad was called to the yards this 9 a.m. to see a man. didn't come back till 6 p.m. and

told us the Denver Livestock Commission Company wanted him to work for them, so he went to

Mann Brothers and told them he was going to quit. They said nothing so he left for the other

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company.

Easter Sunday, April 17, 1938. Pleasant. I was up quite early. Took my bath and got Dad's

breakfast. Then Mrs. Water's said we should leave for church 10:15 to get a good seat. Heard a

wonderful sermon. Ray, Alice and Raymond in for dinner together. We had 9 for eats.

Saturday, April 23, 1938. Still cold and showery. Louise and I went to store an got a bill of

groceries. All went to town to shop and I got a Norge washing machine.

Monday, May 2, 1938. Pleasant. Peg and I worked in yard. Dug and planted till we got tired then

got man to cut lawn. I wrote Andy and Vay, heard my programs, then rested and sewed some.

Saturday, May 28, 1938. Hot. I did some work in yard and rested. Then Louise came for me

and Dad went too and got him 2 hats. Then we took him to Doctors office, then Louise and I

went to look at he pioneer display at Denver Dry goods Company. Then back to get Marie and

then I stayed home and then went to cemetery.

Sunday, June 19,1938. Pleasant and a hard rain and hard in p.m. I went to church with Mrs.

Waters and Dad went to church by himself; Presbyterian. Hazel got dinner for 3.

Monday, June 27,1938. Cool and pleasant and only sprinkles. I started fixing my coat. Got a

letter from Nell and Laura, both and all having a fine time. Andy took Vay to the hospital in

Whittier for an operation.

Tuesday, June 28, 1938. Pleasant with sun and showers. A letter from Andy and Vay was

operated on for appendastice at 8 a.m. Getting on fine. Dad out till late buying cattle for

company. Still sewing on my coat.

Thursday, July 21, 1938. Pleasant. Meta and I put up cherries into jam and caned some for

pies. Then Louise took Meta and lout near Denver University to have a real country dinner; fried

chicken and vegetables galore. Home at 6 p.m. fixed Dad's eats and cooked cherry jam.

Sunday, July 31, 1938. Hot. Up early and off to Loveland to a Boyd Reunion About 40

relatives met with Aunt Marion Boyd who was 91 years old in January. People from Marion,

Ohio, Denver, Estes Park, Loveland, and ate in the yard on the farm 4 miles north of Loveland.

60 years since some of them had attended a Boyd reunion.

Tuesday, August 23, 1938. Hot. I just did my work and wrote Andy and Vay and helped

Hazel can 8 pints of Gravenstein apples for winter sauce. Rested and felt pretty wilted from awful

heat. Heard they took Eugene Boyd to hospital today.

Saturday, September 3, 1938. Raining most of day and high water in all rivers from Douglas,

Wyoming to Pueblo. Lots of deaths from drowning at Morrison, Colorado Springs and down

east on Boulder Creek. I was so excited over it I couldn't do any thing.

Tuesday, October 18, 1938. First snow of the season. Cold and cloudy. I did my work and

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finished my wedding ring quilt. Got my programs. Hazel cleaned Dad's room and changed rugs.

Snow begun to fall this eve at 5:47 p.m. and melted fast but things covered Wednesday morning.

Thursday, November 24, 1938. Cold and some sunshine. I helped with the work until Ray,

Alice came then Alice did the extra work. Raymond came after a high school football game. Had

a nice dinner and Myrna went to Park. Louise got dinner for the Tempte's at 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, December 22, 1938. Cold and sunny. All busy sewing, wrapping packages and

reading Christmas cards. Dad home early, not so well, going to bed early. Started to snow

tonight. Harry and Eva came this p.m.

Friday, December 23, 1938. Cold, foggy and snow most of the day. Still wrapping packages

and mailing. Also receiving packages and the fun begins. Turkeys came for Sunday dinner.

Saturday, December 24, 1938. Cold. I did my work then Peg and I went to store and shopped

and all busy finishing last minute jobs. Girls hung tree decoration and piled packages over piano,

chair and floor, ready for Christmas.

Sunday, December 25, 1938. Cold and Cloudy. "Turk" on early and all at their allotted work.

16 for dinner and all ready to eat at 1 p.m. Waited 1/2 hour for Myrna to come, 4 from Ray's, 3

from Louise, 2 from Estes Park, 4 at home here and 2 maids. Packages from far and near and

plenty of them. Uncle Harry and Dad, ailing for 3 days, too bad.

Saturday, December 31, 1938. Clear and cold. Girls went shopping for New Years dinner.

Came home with plenty of food for some time. Harry and Eva still her, went shopping. Good

Bye Old Year.

Letter 83

Date: 1 March 1939

From: Margaret Elizabeth (Cross) Boyd; Denver, Colorado

To: Myrna Elizabeth (Boyd) Williams

Dear Myrna,

I am writing you first one about Dad's setback he got Tuesday 4 p.m. He had sat up at desk

about an hour, then got into the big chair and I was with him when he said to me "I must get to

bed." When he was on his feet, he said take me to toilet so I did and when he started to the bed

he said, "I'm so weak I can't get to the bed". "Oh yes, I'll help you and you'll make it." He was

almost too weak to turn around, but did and I said now lie down and I take off your shoes." Mrs.

S. was fixing him some eats, as he had refused eats at noon and until that time. He said, "Tell her

to hold up my eats".

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I went to the door and she put out the gas and came in and took his pulse, then gave him the

last tablet of one kind of medication. So she told Hazel to go and get the prescription tilled again.

When I went to the kitchen., Mrs. S. came out and asked me if she shouldn't call Doctor. I told

her yes, so she went upstairs to talk to Doctor but he was out and they would get in touch with

him. Soon she got word he would be there in early eve. He came in and didn't let Dad know we

had called him, (and this was his off day) as he had been coming only every 2 days, for several

days. Dad said, "Why did you come today for?" Doctor said "I was so near, I came in to look at

you and see how frisky you was". Dad said, "I guess I 'most frisked out. Why do you suppose I

had this kind of a spell?" Doctor said it was more a mental worry than anything else, but looked

at Dad and said, "I think you will come through OK" That seemed to relieve him and by

midnight he begun to sleep. Doctor had stopped some of his medications about Friday; didn't

think he needed it. Doctor here this mom again.

Dad had Hazel call Ray to come in and fix up his checkbook and that is all done, and they are

talking about a few cattle that could come in next week to sell. I want to write Eva and Harry and

get it off today's mail.

All so very busy but OK Lots of love and best wishes, Mamma

Letter 84

Date: 30 March 1939

From: Margaret Elizabeth (Cross) Boyd; Denver, Colorado

To: Myrna Elizabeth (Boyd) Williams

Letter Pleasant night and warmer day, Look like all feeling equal to every thing.

Dear Myrna,

It is such a relieved feeling that Miss Soetje is with you. And she is such a messenger to us, for

every few days, here comes the longest message from her on a card. I hope you have had some

sleep since you were home last but this ice cold weather. I was praying you might be spared a trip

out nights in the ice and now. I guess Harry and Eva told you about Mr. Lutz coming out and

talking to us and gave us some good advice (Harry and Eva thought so too).

And the lawyer, Winton Harvey is rushing the probation of will, so he can get a court order to

release the feed, to feed on, as the whole estate will be tied up for a year. Ray is coming up to

Willie Gard's Monday, April 3rd, and will see you as he may have a paper for you to sign, (a

consent of probation of the will) to which all heirs have to give consent. If you are not in town,

leave word where you can be found. We are sending the document to Peg (airmail) tonight and if

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it is back in time, Ray will see you and get your signature and it will be OK A card from Eva

today and I'll let you read it. A letter from Ed to tell us he was so shocked to hear Dad was gone,

as the last letter Eva wrote he was feeling better and to thank us for the check that Ray wrote for

Dad March 1st. He is feel very good now as his rheumatism feels better since it is quite warm

there. Still getting letters from friends and a few flowers that cheer us up quite a bit.

Hazel was out Wednesday p.m. and Nell and I were over to dinner with Louise. Tony's been

gone a week or more; expect him Friday or Saturday. Lots of snow in mountains where he had

been and slowed him up. I didn't sleep any to good last night so will go to bed quick if not

sooner. AU are feeling very good, just very busy. And Friday is last day of school for one week

vacation then we may see you. Don't bring too many eggs if you should drive down; we don't eat

so many now. Take care of yourself and our love and thanks to Mrs. Bonnell, ta ta.

Lot of love, Momma.

PS. Mailed 100 cards last Sunday night at the post office. I may send you a few if you need

some.

Letter 85

Date: 8 April 1939

From: Margaret Elizabeth (Cross) Boyd; Denver, Colorado

To: Myrna Elizabeth (Boyd) Williams

Dear Myrna,

Your letter came as you intended it, and attorney Harvey came at 5 p.m. to have me sign some

papers. Nellie and Louise was here too; first time Nellie had met him. He explained all about

each paper and why he was doing thus and so and the girls as well as myself feel he is very careful

of everything and working for our benefit. And since that paper is here with all signatures, the

date of probation is set for Monday, 10 a.m. at courthouse, when Ray and Louise and (any other

of you children who can be here) will meet the signers of the will, before the attorney and all

other officers necessary to affirm me administrix of the estate. Then attorney Howard can get a

court order to release Ray's 1/2 of feed and maybe get Dad's 1/2 feed released as it was raised on

my land, see. Otherwise they think Ray can buy Dad's half by note to me just as business gesture,

attorney says, so we (or Ray) can use the feed. If you could be here for the day, you could come

upstairs at north door of county and state building and we will be upstairs over the north entrance

of building.

I stayed all night at Louise and came home this a.m. with Tony. Nell and Laura was going out

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last night and Hazel went home Thursday 10:15 bus and I couldn't be alone very well, so now I

am rushing this out to our only Saturday mail delivery. I sure think you are busy and don't over-

do to come down Monday. Nell said she could be there if it was necessary. Attorney said one heir

was enough but all heirs who could be there were welcome. It was perfectly all right as the signed

paper got here OK by Monday 8th. Nell and Hazel cleaned the 2 closets downstairs and found a

brown pair of Dad's pants alive with moths and millers, but I rolled the pants in a newspaper and

took it to ash pit and burned the whole thing up. Nell has been busy with her dresses since I

wouldn't let her paint Dad's room woodwork and maybe mine. I just told her we would get a man

to paint as those 4 big windows would take a lot of careful and slow work and she had more

planned at other things that she couldn't get the 1/2 of her plans carried out. Also, we would have

a man wash walls in kitchen also all windows up high.

I want to make a will and we asked the attorney about a will, a joint tenure, or deeding to each

heir parts of property. He gave his advise and explained about each way and we can tell you what

he thinks best and easiest way to do each when we see you as he told us to. I feel an administrator

other than in the family should be chosen and who could you suggest for that place? Nell will call

Miss Svetja and tell her what you asked. I have gotten so many Easter sympathy cards and I just

can't write any myself so later I'll get picture card of interesting places around her and

acknowledge their cards. What you think of that plan? I have written over 125 cards and letters

and notes during Dad's sickness since January 1st besides the 125 or more thank you cards. I

haven't even acknowledged many of my Christmas presents. Almost mail time so hope to see you

soon and I'll rush this out to you. Tell Ettie K I haven't forgotten her, but too nervous to write

much and I'll talk to any and all later when I see them. Lovely letter from Edna Phinney and for

you too. Can't talk any longer so, ta ta.

AIl feeling very well, only busy. Your busy, Mother.

Letter 86

Date: 15 January 1940

From: Margaret Elizabeth (Cross) Boyd; Denver, Colorado

To: Myrna Elizabeth (Boyd) Williams

Dear Myrna,

We are all fine, but plenty cold and snow. I tried to get this out for today's a.m. mail, but

failed. Louise got a letter from Peg last Friday mail. Then Peg expected to be here tonight, but

her letter said "I may have to come a week later because I have to pack everything ready to move

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as Clem may be moved out of Eureka. But if not to leave here, we think we can get a larger

apartment in this place, upstairs, if so, I want to move Clem up and get him settled, or have

things packed for a longer move while I am gone". At the last she said they would wire when she

left Oakland, California and if we got no wire, she would be leaving up there Saturday 2Oth.

I meant to send you a card this mom but now you should have this letter Tuesday a.m. train. I

am forwarding your Merchant's Fire Insurance Company dividend, I think it is, today's mail.

Hope you get it. NeIl and Blanch Ferguson went to Greeley Sat. and back Sun. p.m. and Louise

took me to her home for Sun. dinner and Mrs. C. went to her daughters for most of the day.

Louise had your potato in the kettle for dinner too. About 10:30 Albert Cross came out to see us

and Louise said bring him out too, but he and a man and wife, came down last week and have a

camp cabin on top of a bill above Cherry Creek Fed. Blvd. I think Albert and the man are going

to enter as riders in bronco tests. He said he would be in to see us when NeIl was home. I told

him to let me know when they could come and we would have a diner ready for them. I'll let you

know by card, when and what we hear form Peg. Mrs. C. will take this to the comer mail box and

it will be in the P .0. ready to go up on first train Tues. 16th. Harry and Eva didn't show up Sun.

so feel they won't be down for stock show. No one from Wyoming but Albert.

Lots of Love, Mamma

Letter 87

Date: about 1940

From: Lavitha (Hull) Boyd; Pico Rivera, California

To: Margaret Elizabeth (Cross) Boyd; Denver, Colorado

Dear Mother B,

Check here and we are so thrilled. It was so sweet of you to think about us needing a few

things and we do. We will get kids shoes tonight and Si pajamas, socks and a work hat. I bought

him two shirts, some new undies and a new tie pants. I'd like two lil' cheap wash dresses if I can

find them.

We have 473 miles on the Chevy, soon ready for the overhaul they give and then I do hope we

can soon send you word we are starting. We are so anxious to see you. We have sure burned gas

trying to get the Chevy ready but hated to start until we had the first 500 miles and they overhaul

and tighten all bolts and change oil, etc., m. Si love his car and I like it too.

We will be careful and watch the screwdrivers as Peg says, and hope to see you all soon. It is a

thrill we will never forget and the dearest mother alive made it possible and the memory of dear

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Dad Boyd comes to me every time I step on the starter. I hope he knows and approves it all.

Until later, loads of love. I am on air. Vay and her bees.

Uncle Jim and Si went out to the oil well and they think its OK but when $ will come is a ?

Uncle Jim's thrilled over Si's car, said it couldn't be better. He bought Jay a Plymouth. Kids

school out June l5th. Both will pass I am sure, good grades.

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