LEONORA A CROWELL
LETTERS
1882-1885
MID PENINSULA LIBRARY FEDERATION
Iron Mountain, Michigan 49801
1976
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ACKNOWLEDGMENT
Special thanks to Miss Nora Carpenter,
Reference Librarian of the Dickinson County
Library for permission to reproduce her
grandmother's letters.
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FOREWORD
In 1882, Leonora Schumacher Crowell came to the booming mining town of Iron Mountain as the new bride of J. Addison Crowell,
M. D. Mrs. Crowell was twenty-three years old when she arrived from the east and her husband was twenty- eight.
Over the next five years Mrs. Crowell wrote regularly to a younger sister in Rahway, New Jersey and it is through these letters that we learn about her, the doctor, and the pioneer community of Iron
Mountain.
There were no houses to rent or buy in Iron Mountain ninety-four years ago so for over a year "home" was a single room at the Jenkins
Hotel. Traffic didn't present a problem then, but run away horses did and Mrs. Crowell had a narrow escape when she was "upset out of a buggy." She took the incident rather calmly, but Addison was badly frightened.
In 1882 almost everything a new bride needed was hard to buy in Iron Mountain including dress material and the needles and thread to sew it with, and when Leonora decided to make a "fascinator" much help was needed from her sister in locating
materials.
Typhoid fever was prevalent and mine accidents kept the doctor busy, but hotel life provided some
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relief with weddings and receptions and occasionally the theatre came to town for several performances— "reserved seats are wooden chairs and the others are planks extended from one beer keg to another."
Doctor and Mrs. Crowell lived all their lives in Iron Mountain in a beautiful home that has become an area
landmark. Mrs. Crowell died in 1932 and Dr. Crowell in 1938, and the home today is still occupied by daughters Leonora and Jeannette and grand daughter Leonora (Nora).
The letters could not be more charming and informative and we are fortunate that Miss Carpenter and her family preserved them over the years and graciously agreed to share them with us during our bicentennial
year.
Ralph W. Secord
Director
Dickinson County Library
Mid-Peninsula Library Federation
Iron Mountain, Michigan
1976
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Iron Mt. A. M.
Sept. 18th 1882
My dear sister Dora!
Your letter I received yesterday noon, along with one from Jennie. I think it was quite nice of her to write me, don't you? Addison has gone to attend to his sick people. He wanted me to mend the bottom of a pair of pants while he was gone this morning. I agreed. If I only had a thimble for mine is away down in that large box that is on its way from the freight! He measured my finger and said he'd bring one back from the store. I wanted him to bring me a crochet--needle too, but seeing him a little reluctant about buying such goods, told him not to mind it. I forgot to bring my pet one after all. You returned
it to me in the sitting room, and I can't think what I did with it. Did Gert receive the fringes her brother bought her? As soon as we were aboard the boat Addison said he would have to try and find something at Marquette for Gert, so you all see, he thinks a good deal of his youngest sister. We couldn't buy her a canoe for they were all sold, but she can keep what we bought her for a curiosity and maybe someday she can ornament the
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same thing out of our own woods. It's only pricked on, a little boy did it! We have had glorious weather since we left home; this morning we had the first rain, but it has cleared again. Marquette is a beautiful place, and I wouldn't mind living there at all. We had to change cars twice from there to Iron Mt. The fare is outrageous! 6 cts. a mile, and such miserable cars to travel in! But, you'll see for yourself should you ever make me that promised visit. The trip on the lakes was delightful for we were blessed with such perfect weather. Add just got back. Brought half a lb. of nails and a hammer to drive them in our closet so that I can hang up our clothes. He tells me he has just bought me a willow rocker of Grace Hitchings husband who is up here in the furniture line. Grace has been very sick and is off in Canada. The chair cost 10$. He has had me looking over two illustrated catalogues of furniture; out of one to select a bureau, out of the other a lounge. We have neither in our room, but everything else is new, nice, comfortable, and clean. When he returns at noon he will bring ink and pens, and then I won't have to scribble so. I write on my lap for we are without a stand or table. Add's a comical fellow at all times, even when he is in deepest earnest. I can't help laughing at him when there isn't an occasion at all! He
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doesn't mind it any and laughs back too. I have to get the washing ready to go down the line this afternoon. If Gert found my garter she must have found the clothes I took off also. They were near the door in the dark room, and I forgot to take them down to the clothes basket. Did you find Addison's umbrella? Add wanted me to drive over to Keel Ridge yesterday with him, but I just don't feel like going around yet. If he wants me to, I may go today. I haven't been out at all yet. If Mrs. (Dr.) Cameron was only here I wouldn't mind; but she will arrive next week, and then it will be easier for me. I like Dr. Cameron very, very well indeed. He isn't at all good looking, but ruddy, and smiling nearly always. He is a good-natured frank Scotch-man; shorter than Addison, rather stout, and somewhat sandy side whiskers. He is a little broad in his talk too, and beginning to get bald; but I like him real well. We met up at the station. It was dusk and indeed I felt truly I was in a strange land; especially when I was introduced as "my wife," and Dr. Cameron called me Mrs. Crowell when asking about our trip. Oh! It was a miserable feeling I can tell you! Such a lone, lonely, strange feeling. The first night we arrived here Addison was called out at midnight, and didn't get back till after three in the morning. I didn't sleep for fear I wouldn't
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hear him when he returned, to let him in quietly.
I must close now. Hope the next I write will be better written. Tell Gert I expect a letter from her to either brother Add or myself, or both. Love I send to all. Thank Eva for taking care of the bird. Addison brought me home the ink and other little things. Says he is completely broke with buying every thing for me. We have had our dinner and he wants me to drive over to Keel Ridge so I am going to get ready now.
Your own loving sister,
L. A. S. C.
P. S. Tell Jennie I felt so badly when I opened my trunk and found my wedding slipper in a thousand pieces! We were going to have it under a little glass shade just for the fun of the thing. Everything else was all right. It was good of her to pack them so well.
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Iron Mountain City, Mich.
September 20th 1882
My dear sister Dora
Your letter came yesterday; many thanks for the needle. I had bought one for 5 cts. but it was no good. Tell Poll I did take the flowers away with me, but after I got here and looked at them concluded it would be better to throw them away. So I haven't saved any, but the little bud that I found nicely pressed in Addison's coat. Mrs. Cameron came yesterday and I am heartily glad of it. She is nothing but a plain looking little girl, and, I think I shall like her very much. Last evening I was invited out to tea. Mrs. Orbison and Mrs. Finn called in the afternoon on me and took me away with them.
They left word with Mrs. Cameron to send Dr. Crowell up in time for tea also: this was at Mrs. O's. This was her second call on me. She is a sweet little thing and has only just gone to housekeeping in a dear little home of her own. While Addison was on home her baby Freddie died, and she feels the loss of the little fellow so much! He was 6 months
old. It rained in the evening and you may be sure I was delighted to see my thoughtful "old man" walk up the stoop with my rubber coat for me to wear
home. He is ever
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so good to me Doe; brings me home any fruit he may chance to see, and pansies out of an Italian's garden. Those I put in my little silver vase. I have been introduced to Mrs. Jenkins, Dr. &
Mrs. Cameron, Dr. Hutchinson, Mr. Swift, Mr. Chas. Branton or Barton (Frank knows him), Mr. Wicks, Mr. & Mrs. Orbison, Mrs. Orbison, Mrs. Finn, of Keel Ridge. (Mr. Orbison's a man a good deal like Ben), Mrs. Smith, mother to Mrs. Laycock, Miss Palmer, Miss Atkinson, Mr. & Mrs. Perant and that's all I can remember just now. Addison has gone for the horse and then I am to go with him to the Ridge. I think I shall get on nicely now that Mrs.
O. has come. Already I feel much more at home. A man was killed in the mine the other morning. It's horrid to have them come rapping at the door, for the Dr. any hour of the night. We keep very late hours and don't get up before seven. Good bye.
Your loving sister,
Leonora
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Iron Mountain City, Mich.
Sept. 28th 1882
Dear sister Dora
Today is Addison's birthday (29). A night or so ago we had the little cake out looking at it; the one you gave him two years ago. We are going to see how long we can keep it without cutting it. It is as fresh as ever it was. Addison began a letter to you on the 21st but was called out just as he finished the first page and it still lays around waiting to be finished. The rubber coat was a present. Add wanted to pay Ben for it, but he said if he did that he couldn't have it, as he would take it back. I wish you would send the umbrella by express. All it requires on it is a tag. Don't be afraid. It will come all right. Add hasn't any here, and will need it. I wish I could make a fascinator, but I can't for I can't buy the material here, nor the needle to work it with, and very soon I shall be in want of one. I think I will try and find a dollar in paper money. They are very scarce as almost all is silver. You can then buy me the Shetland can't you? The rest will do to express the umbrella won't it? That's a happy thought! I don't feel like doing a hand's turn here for I can't get a hold of the things I should like to
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work with. My box came about a week ago, but it had to stay at the freight as there was no place to put it. Day before yesterday Addison went over and had them bring it across to the livery stable where he opened it and took out about one fourth of my things. Then, he was called away and so nailed up the remainder, and says they will have to stay where they are till we go to housekeeping. That may be in the spring. I don't believe he would have opened it at all--only for the lamp and the table. You ought to see him over that lamp: he just loves to light it with those parlor snapmatches. It makes me almost jump to hear them go off. You know they are pushed up into the burner and light that way. It gives a beautiful light, and I think papa wouldn't mind reading with such a one beside him. At least in this one thing, no one can go ahead of us. I haven't a spot for any kind of plants; not even those that grow in water, so I won't ask you to send them yet awhile. As soon as I have a place to put them will call on you to send them to me. I should like the book you mention sent to me and I promise to read it too; besides I should like to lend it to Charlie Braughton (that's how to spell it). He is such a nice, quiet, sensible, young man. Has lent me two books; "Figs & Thistles" and "Without a Home," and I can read whatever books he has. He played a game
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of checkers with me last night and I beat him
badly. Then we tried cards but Dr. Cameron had to give up his hand, being called away so that broke up the game. Later in the evening we all went downstairs into the new addition of the hotel, where the bar and billiard rooms are just finished. On this account they invited a few friends and gave a dance. It was very pleasant, but the Drs. only went for fear of giving offense by not going. The music was the piano and violin and refreshments--coffee and various kinds of cake.
I should like pickles from home, but how can they be sent such a distance? I thank you all for wishing to send them to me, even if you will be unable to do so. I think I should like best the kind Gert calls hers, without much
flavoring, but vinegar. The vinegar we get here at the table is horrid. For dinner today we had baked white fish, roast-beef, and some other kinds of meat, mashed potatoes, lima beans, and squash gravy, chow-chow, tea, coffee, custard pies, pumpkin pie, and blackberry roll pudding, apples, and raisins. This is about our general dinner. Sometimes we have melons and grapes. I always take my apple upstairs with me and save it for my "old man" when he comes in afternoons. He came
in at dinner time today and tormented me finely by saying he intended
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writing you something about me. If he does, don't believe him for he will be only trying to find something to talk about. I know Ella C. is home again, you see her position was in the ticket office of the Iron Pier (Pier I Coney Island).
I must mail this now. Here is the dollar. Mrs. Cameron changed a silver one for me so I didn't have to wait until my better half came home. Best love to all, I wish I could talk instead of write.
Your loving sister,
Leonora
P. S. Stick in a good pen in your next letter, it will be a charity. Add got your papers all right.
L.A.C.
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Iron Mountain City, Mich.
October 5th A. M. 1882
Dear Dora
Here I am a month married today. --There! I had just gotten that far toward getting your letter off when Mr. Jenkins came hurrying upstairs looking for one of the Doctors. Both were up at the office so it was sometime before they could be brought downtown again. A poor man, of course with a family, had fallen under the cars while at work at them. His chest was badly hurt, one leg all but torn off above, and below the knee. The other, in the same place, almost mashed to a jelly. Besides, ruptured by the accident. He lay right across the street where the R. R. runs, and from the front windows Mrs. Cameron and I could see the crowd around him, and hear his groans; then see him carried to his home on a door. Do you wonder I couldn't write! The Doctors got there in time to bandage him up so that he would not bleed to death. But his chances for life are very slim. Then the Doctors came in just before dinner and looked over their surgical books for the best way to amputate the limb. Then we had dinner. I didn't eat much more than some soup. Now
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they are out at that dreadful work, and Add had me get out Ben's rubber coat so that he could slip it on and not get his clothes soiled. I haven't felt very well for a few days. If I was at home I should think I was getting the old "shakes" but, as it is, think I have taken cold. Dr. Cameron says we mustn't drink much water till after this month. You know the greatest trouble they have here at this time of the year is Typhoid Fever. Still, this fever here is not so bad, I believe as the same would be at home. However, it's bad enough for one poor fellow died of it in the hospital the other day. There! I don't suppose you thank me for a letter all about sickness, do you? Addison, I am thankful to say, has at last conquered that old cough of his. He hasn't been well either. Then he had to visit a patient two miles out in the woods and came back pale as a ghost. He is all right again now. I'd much rather be sick in his place if I could only order it so, for he looks miserable when anything is the matter with him. I am so much more contented than I was at first. Our room everybody thinks real cozy and it really is even if it is crowded. We call it the "den." The carpenter put us up six shelves behind the closet door in book-case style and all are filled with books, excepting one, which has to be used as a "Doctor shop." Our lamp gives a great heat. Almost every night we have to leave our window up all night. I think we won't suffer from cold this winter
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even if we have no stove in our room. Mrs. Jenkins proposes to heat our room from the hall, so after all we will get on here very nicely until spring. If all is right then, we may go to keeping house for A. C. Brown of Marinette promised Add and I at breakfast the other morning to build us a house then. I think he was a little amused at us from the twinkle in one of his eyes. However, I don't care if he did see anything to laugh at provided he keeps his promise. Your cakes were very nice. I haven't eaten them all yet; it was too bad that they all broke into little bits of pieces coming. The worsted came this noon. Thank you for sending it so quickly and remembering the needle too. I ought to write to mama today also, but guess I shall wait a day or so; so that you will not get my letters on the same day. Don't talk about "poor writing" and "being able to read it, etc." I must scribble away hoping you can make out my meaning and that is all. All my letters have to be written on my knee, and you know I never could write that way. I am so sorry to hear of all the sickness you have been having at home. Poor Gert and "Annerly" too; and "Obie" and "Colus" and Frank! It's too bad! But then, by this I suppose they are all up and as well as ever. I read all about the flood almost as soon as you did for Mr. Crowell sent us the paper, and Addison a nice letter, written on his birthday. I have put it away to save, for Add throws away everything.
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Wanted me the other night to throw out of the window more than a doz. cakes he had bought to eat when
hungry. Said they took up too much room. He wanted the place they had in our bookcase vacated for the four huge volumes his father just sent
him. Mr. Crowell sent "his love to Lillie," and that's what pleased me of course. Why didn't you go? Love to papa, mama, Jeannie, Will, Eva, Frank, Poll, Gert, baby and your own dear
self.
Your loving sister,
Lillie no, Leonora
P. S. Add hasn't got back yet and it's almost three P. M. (mail time).
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Iron Mountain City, Mich.
October 15th 1882
Dear Dora
I am writing with your pen, and it goes all right; but still my writing isn't any of the best, because I try and write as fast as possible when the letter is meant for you. To night is Sunday. I have attended church to-day--morning service-:
this is the second time I have been since I came here. We have a new minister; he is a nice looking man and a very good speaker; still my attention couldn't be held by him. This afternoon there was a funeral in the little church a woman just married a year. Her baby boy lived, but there was no hope for her recovery from the beginning of her sickness. The baby is only a few days old, and Addison says I can go to see it; she has no relations in this country excepting her husband; for he brought her from England. Mrs. Cameron wanted to go to the church, as it is the first lady (or woman), she says, who has died since she came here. She wanted me to accompany her so I went; also
Dr. Cameron. Last evening being Saturday, the Drs. took their clean underclothes, done up in paper, up with them to the office where they have a nice bathroom with hot and cold water for the hospital
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patients. After office hours they, the Drs.; each take a good bath, put on their clean clothes and then come home. We, the Mrs. Drs., get each a pitcher of hot water from the girls in the kitchen and wash in the same old way as we have to at home. Well, I had taken my wash and had put on my clean clothes, and night-dress too: had just taken down my hair to cut off a little more of the "bang" when Mrs. P. knocked at my door. I let her in and she said well "you've missed it!" I asked her what? She told me there was a couple in the parlor waiting for the "Justice" to arrive for they were to be married. Well, says I, can we go and see it done? She thought we could so ran off to ask Mrs. Jenkins. When she got back I was all dressed again. I never dressed so quickly in my life. Hair and all had to be fixed. So we were present at the marriage, and what a form to be called so! A dingy uncombed Justice of the Peace sat at the center table. His name I believe was Rackerty, and he looked just like his name. The couple stood up in front of the table, and Mr. Jenkins and one of the dining-room girls stood with them. The bride was a bold looking girl of 29—very large for her age. The groom more modest and 24 years old. He was so worked up that the perspiration stood out in large drops all over his forehead. They had to hold up their right hands and swear to answer
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the questions put to them truthfully; such as, were they ever married before? Were they any relation to each other? What was their names, occupation, age, etc., then they were told to put down their hands and join hands and in two seconds they were man and wife. All the old fellow said, or about all, was "now according to the laws of Michigan and before these witnesses, you are man and wife." The fellow sat down nervously, put his hand in his pocket then got up and asked "how much?" "Two dollars" said old Rackerty. Out came two silver dollars. Then his hand went back again into the pocket and fished out 50 cts. That he handed over to the old fellow too, and told him it was for to get a smoke with. Then he turned to us girls or women, and asked if we ladies wouldn't take a little wine? Mrs. Jenkins said "no," but lemonade would do. So off he went down to the bar-room and brought up a little waiter with five glasses of lemonade and a bundle of straws. When he took the tray down stairs the bride got up and said she "guessed she would retire," so went into her bedroom. He came back, looked in the parlor for her, and then went in to the room with her. The young fellows boarding here, all got together (I mean all but the decent ones, and they are very few up in this rough country) down stairs and cheered the bride for they had heard of her being upstairs. The same night Add was
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roused to mend a French-man's head which had
been cut with a bottle while he was having a "free fight." And so it goes here. I can't go for any walks about here at all for Addison won't let me, says it isn't safe. And he hasn't much time to go with me himself. Mrs. C. and myself spent Friday evening at Mrs. Simpson's. There we had all the music we wanted for Mr. S. plays almost everything on the violin and Mrs. S. sings. Dr. Cameron called to take us home. We had jelly layer cake and lemonade. Then we received invitations to a Birthday party of
Mr. Buells like all, or nearly all the rest, a rake of an old fellow but having plenty of money. We haven't seen the Comet yet, but it is to be seen right out of our window so the first clear night we hope to get sight of
it. It is seen here about 1 A. M.
With love
L. A. S. C.
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J. Addison Crowell, M. D.
Iron Mountain City, Mich.
October 24th 1882
Dear Dora
Your book came yesterday, and as soon as I finish the little story I am at "When the Ship comes home" shall begin it. Did your bundle of Trailing Pine reach you? If you would dampen it a little I think it would hang better after being rolled up. If I only had someone to go out with me we could easily pick enough to send home for you to trim up for Christmas-—well the little I picked for you will do your own room. You can't have been to the city yet as you didn't say anything about it. I will send you another dollar in this letter, and when you are at Macy's will you please spend it all in Ric Rac Braid for me? I want six bundles of the same as the sample I enclose. It is the kind I like--the points are so good! Then spend the rest in braid of the same kind only much smaller and finer, for I want to see how it will work up. Have you made all your double yet? Ask Colus if she has found out how to make the double without joining first. If so, I hope to receive a sample of it! Don't forget! If you have been to N. Y. I can
wait till someone is going in. I trimmed up my felt hat yesterday, so
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as to save my best one, for I don't want the
feathers on it spoiled. It is simply trimmed with one of my scarfs made into loops and that one green feather I had for it; all on the left side, the other plain. It might be improved upon, but still answers the purpose well enough. On Wednesday eve will be held the first party of the season of the "Iron Mt. Dancing Club." They are every month I believe. Very good too I guess. All the young people try to be present. Now if Poll was in my place she could have all the dancing she could desire. The couple who were married here had met for the first time at a ball in Florence just above this place, and came down here to be married the night
following. Love at first sight. Here is the notice! We meant to be at Stephenson this Sunday, but had word sent us not to come unless we could stay over Wednesday as they wished us to be present at the marriage of Mr. Laycock's book-keeper. The bride lives out aways in the wood. I expect to have a real good time while there, so if nothing happens will see that we are there on the appointed.
So Sunday was your birthday! Yes I remember that event last year very well. Did you get your card from Hamilton? What was the business Frank Sutton is in? I knew but can't bring it to
mind. Am I losing track of the people out there or what is the matter, for I can't for the life of
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me recall anybody by the name of Fisher that
you say Sam is staying with! Tell me something of the Moffet House, and Forest &
Wallace. Tell Gert I have been, that is Add has been, promised a little tiny Black & Tan, the small kind. Addison asked me If I wanted it, and of course I did. (The dog isn't born yet, but you needn't say anything about this!)
Every month Addison gets a large volume of the "Encyclopedia Britannica" through the express. Each volume costs 6 $, and I believe in all there will be 20 volumes. He has four already. On Saturday night last, he and Dr. C. went to
Quinnesec where they joined the Order of Ancient Foresters—some mutual benefit society. The miners belong, and wanted a
Dr. among them so that by him they could be attended when sick and examined before joining, as
it seems to be a sort of insurance really. Papa knows all about it I suppose. Add wants now to join the Free M. for he thinks it will be of some good to him up here. He says he tore up that letter he began to
you. The only letter outside of his business that he has written, excepting one short one to Joe Laycock, has been to his father after receiving the books. He always wants to know what your letters contain. I tell him but he never reads them, sometimes he threatens to open them for he brings them in from the P.O. when he comes
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at noon.
With truest love,
Your loving sister,
Leonora
P. S. One of the dining-room girls brought me some pink and cardinal ribbon for me to make into hair bows for herself and Mary. They must admire the bows I wear or they wouldn't have asked. Isn't that so? So you think my cards pretty! Addison laughed at the "Dr." and said it was a good advertisement.
Yours,
L.
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Iron Mountain City, Mich.
November 3rd 1882
Dear Dora
The fancy cakes came safely and without being broken. They were very
nice. My fascinator I finished sometime ago. What did you do the last night of Oct.? Or did the evening go by without your remembering it was H. E., as it did with me! Think of that evening last year! Mrs. Cameron has gone to Escanaba to visit some cousins for a week so I am left
alone. Her birthday was the other day she is only twenty. Dr. Cameron receives every month, I believe, 1000. Pretty nice isn't it? Addison does just as much work as he, and even more, and yet what a difference in the pay!
Mrs. C. unpacked her furs before she started. She has a long 40 inch coat, jocky cap, muff, and boa, all of seal skin. I think of getting a new cap sometime soon. Mine is about played out and they are just what is needed here. I think the helmet shaped would be nice don't you? Or do you think I had better buy a soft cap? When I want it I wonder if papa couldn't get it better than for me to risk sending to Chicago and not knowing what I am getting! Ask him will you? But, if it will put him out any, I would rather he would not bother with it.
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But there is one thing I do wish he would do for me, and that is buy me an instrument case. You see I have been wondering and thinking what in the world to give Addison for Christmas. At first I thought I would buy him a short house jacket, but I concluded it would be such a trouble to send away either to C. or Milwaukee for it that I gave it up. Fortunately I heard him say he was going to get a new instrument case before long, and so I thought that would be something I could get much easier; and as it is quite a small package it could be sent without trouble through the mail. I feel as though I must make him a present of somekind, just for the looks of things, if nothing more. The good people here are very remarking. Ask papa if it will be much of a bother to do this! I will write down just exactly what I want, for I have Otto & Son's Catalogue here, and the price list also. But how ought I to send the money? It will be about 25.00 for I want the finest. If he says he can get it for me I will send him the paper of just the kind it is to be.
Love to all
Your loving sister
Lill
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Iron Mountain, Mich.
November 10th 1882
Dear Dora
Here goes to answer your letter though I haven't any news. I have just written a card to Mrs. Laycock saying she may expect us to morrow evening to spend Sunday with her. But whether we can get off this time or not remains to be seen. Addison has been elected Coroner so you can tell Walter C. I will send you our ticket. I wish you could send me one of our Clark Township ones; it would amuse me to see the old names in print. Did Will "run for office" this time? What is becoming of the
Republ. party? Everything seems to have gone Democratic. It is even doubtful whether Michigan has not elected a Demo. Governor, and that was never known before. The first twins of Iron Mt. were born night before last; a boy and girl. The parents are Swedes. Addison calls them his twins and in a couple days he is going to take me to see them. He says they look too comical licking their lips while rolled up Indian fashion in a strip of flannel and each with a little night cap on. That's the way all the Swede babies are dressed. I had to laugh about the father of the babies, for when he was told there was
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two he opened his mouth wide with wonder and
asked if there was still anymore. Some of them are dreadfully ignorant. What do you think of a big giant of a Swede with hoop earrings in his ears coming to our door and telling Add he was wanted down at Keel Ridge? "Woman sick." "All right" says Add "I'll go right away," but that didn't satisfy him. Oh! no!
He had to put his big head in the door and say, "She make baby!" and I sitting on the sofa right in front of the door. As soon as the door was closed Addison began calling him a "fool" etc. But we both had to laugh over it. He said it so innocently. Girl in Swede is called "Fla-e-cal, and boy is "Boig" like as if it was Poig. I don't know if that is the way to spell them, but they sound like that. Last week was a terrible time for babies--7 in eight days. Tell me all that is going on at home between yourselves. I never hear anything on Colus. Is she alive and well? Mrs. C. and I were telling the Drs. at noon to-day that we thought of returning home for Christmas and staying until they succeeded in finding a house for us. We think that would be the quickest means of getting one. With best love to papa, mama, and
all. Believe me your loving sister.
L.
P. S. Didn't Carrie Martin's parents know of the marriage?
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JENKINS HOTEL
W. H. JENKINS, PROPRIETOR
HARRY DEVERE, Manager
Iron Mountain, Mich.
January 6th 1883
Dear Dora
Your letter and mittens arrived safely. I am under the impression that you knit them for yourself, and it was too bad to go and give them away. I haven't worn them yet. Guess I will lay them away till next winter. Did you get the music "The Bridge?" It is quite a favorite here so that is why I sent it. There is another song here that is quite the "go" and that is "Twinkle, twinkle, little star." I have been wondering if you have it at home too. Would you like me to send you all I get? I'll send you this week's anyhow, and you and "Colus" can try it together. Evening before last Addison and I went down to Mrs. Orbison's to have a tea of waffles. They invited us to come any night we could and have a "meal" of them. They were the first I have had in years and were very good with maple syrup. We returned home after a pleasant evening spent in playing Cribbage. It's the first time I ever
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played the game. The three others knew all about it; but I did very well, so well, that they thought I had played before. Mr. O. and I beat the other two so that wasn't so bad for a new beginner, was it? We had a dish of white grapes, oranges, and apples to eat between times. Oranges here are about 10 cts. each. On reaching home we found a large sleighing party from Quinnesec had arrived. They were dancing in the dining room where the piano had been taken down for the occasion. They had a violinist also. It did not break up till after two. We have received cards to a wedding up here. Miss Cecilia Rundle, eldest daughter of Capt. Rundle, who is captain of the Chapin Mine. A Capt. of a mine is quite an important person, not only on account of being general manager, but mostly in his own estimation. Theirs is the best house in town, largest, and built as we build at home with cellars and furnace. It all lies with Addison whether I go or not, for I will do just as he wishes about it. If I go I will have to wear my wedding dress I suppose; and I don't like to do that on account of the train; at times I wish I had had it made short, and yet I don't want to have it altered for I hope yet to wear it at the remaining weddings at home. We will give Celia either a doz. silver forks or spoons. They have to be sent for--everything good nearly has to. This wedding is to be on the 10th.
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Had a letter from Aunt L. day before yesterday. She directed to Iron Mt. Wisconsin, so it went all around that state first; this made it very late in getting to me. Addison has been called off to see a man who has badly cut his hand with a
saw. It is just dinner time, and I am hurrying to finish before he returns. He sent a boy down to tell Dr. Cameron to bring him the
chloriform bottle, so that means, I suppose, something has to be cut off; either the hand or some fingers. You can't tell how sorry I am about little Forest! I only remember him as I saw him last summer with Wallace in his arms. I want to mail this now so will close.
Love to all,
Your affectionate sister
Leonora
P. S. My writing grows worse and worse doesn't it!
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Iron Mountain City, Mich.
February 26th 1883
Monday Afternoon
Dear Dora
I will write a little to you to-day. The Darling's lock of hair came all safely; it is a pretty piece, and I hope
it will always keep that pretty wave in it. Yes I would like her little dress, and that pretty little locket you know I will highly prize. I thought some one would remember to press me a few of her flowers, and from your letter I see I was not
wrong. I think of the spring flowers coming soon again and the way she used to hunt for them, and the little bunches she used to bring for me to wear and Jeannie's glass vase kept with
its boquet of fresh flowers! Everything she used to do and say is still so fresh before me! Is it because I am so far away?
What Is it Doe, I hear about a little pillow case? Add seems to think this something comical. I don't see that it
is any laughing matter, do you? I was thinking I would have to be making a pillow and cover, and behold! I no sooner thought of it than I hear
it is being made for me. I made a little sample of lace for you this morning and this is
it. It is what I had commenced for mama
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when she wrote me to make her some, I thought it would be just the thing for Gertie's aprons. Now I am making it of split white Zephyr, and made of this it looks very pretty. It is so easy and quick that I think you will like to make your self some. Tell me when Eva intends moving, and how she is fixing up her house. I guess it will be a good thing for her to have grandma B. living with her. I am so glad we are about to move. I had about given up all hopes of it, and now we are really going! I wrote mama this morning, and have posted it. I hope she doesn't think I am forever looking on the dark side of everything, for truly I do not, only I write her as I would talk. I like to tell her just as every thing is here, that is all. What we think of as likely to happen may never come, and really I am not going to let it worry me. It's very strange that Banjo should turn out such a terror. I can't understand it! I have begun the book you sent. Hope it will prove a good story; as every book I have read so far out here has ended anyway but pleasantly. I have just finished "A life for a life," one of Miss Mulock's and it was no better. Is your winter over? We had a big snow storm yesterday. I guess the sleighing here will last till June.
Love to all.
Your sister
L.A.C.
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Iron Mountain City, Mich.
March 13th 1883
Dear Dora
To-night we are all invited to a private party of about sixty; down to Mrs. Phinn's at Keel Ridge. Dr. and
Mrs. Cameron are about ready to start. Addison has gone, as usual, to the Hospital and I will try and have this written before he gets back. He I think, would like to go to the party too, if it wasn't for
me. But I don't care about exerting myself that much; by getting ready, or meeting a crowd of strangers that I don't care a straw for. Besides,
its dancing, and I never cared for parties anyhow. It is just as well anyhow that he stays home to night, for he is more than tired having been up all last night, down at K. R. (twin girls) and the night before also (single girl) and the afternoon of the same day, another baby girl. I am about disgusted with hearing about so many
babies. I called on Mrs. Phinn this afternoon to tell her she must excuse us; and she gave me a large dish of ice cream; all ready for the evening. I told her it was the first I had had
in half a year. After I had finished she wanted to get me some more, but that I wouldn't allow.
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Our girl hasn't arrived yet, and we two girls
are still keeping house. The Drs. get the water and wood for us; that is, carry
it up from the yard. Dr. Cameron makes the fires in the mornings, then we get
up. Did I tell you my room opens into the kitchen? It has also a door going into the hall. My toilet set is white with a cardinal band, such as you have often
seen. I have made myself a large apron, sewed completely by hand. But,
Mrs. Fredericks cleaned her machine for us to-day, so now what sewing I have to do can be done on that. I am ashamed of myself having mama sewing so much for
me. It isn't my fault anyway. I lay all the blame on Add.
Doe! If you have any of your marking cotton left, I should like you to send me enough in your next letter to finish the other little pillow case with the vine. I like it
on. Do you remember pricking your finger while making them? I looked at them so closely that I found two of the tiniest specks of "blood," so you see I know just how hard at work you
were. Addison was saying he wished we had some place here to put you so that you could visit
us. But never mind, we may someday have a place of our own after all. My "old man" has just got back so I will close with ever so much
love. He
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has brought a bottle of Milwaukee Beer, with
him. That's my treat instead of the party.
Your loving sister,
L.
P. S. I never will get accustomed to the thought that dear little Gertie isn't with you until I visit home again, I suppose.
Lillie
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Iron Mountain City, Mich.
March 27th 1883
Dear Dora
Your letter I received, also the papers. Add had to tear them open in the office first thing, and of course, out dropped the tatting and the two little
socks. He had them stuffed down in his coat pocket, brought them out as a good joke. I put cord and balls on them the same day and laid them with the others I have made. You don't know how cunning they look! Yours make the number just half a doz. I have one pair of light blue saxony, one white and blue, one all white, one of blue knitting silk, and one of cardinal that "its" "aunt Cameron" made it, and then your pair. I guess that is enough? Addison has to look the lot over every few days. I think he is most taken with the two little knitted shirts. They do look cunning with the blue ribbon run through the neck. Mrs. Orbison's little shirts are made just like mine only on small rubber needles; and these with the saxony she brought me from her home in
Appleton. While down there she was taught to make crocheted caps and hoods, and she has made one for me out of unbleached linen thread with light blue ribbons, and lined
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with blue satin. It is very pretty but does not
come up to the little blue silk one I have just finished. It was real good of you to knit the socks but, when I saw that pile of tatting, I can tell you I was surprised and delighted. Can't you tell me what I can put it on, where it will show to greatest advantage? It's a shame to cut it up for shirts, isn't it? I have worked the other pillowcase with the cotton you sent. The roll of flannel bands came all right, but the Wrappers was badly torn so they were somewhat soiled on the edges. So if "it to be a boy" you would rather not have him called Freddie? Well, supposing
it should. How would Theodore do? It isn't fair to tell me that way. You ought to write what your choice would be! My old man thinks the chances are that it will be a
girl. I guess either will satisfy him though he would rather it would be a boy. He says he doesn't want to be buying books for nothing, so I take it that he
intends him to "follow his profession." It's nice to get Ham's love once in awhile. Return mine to him when you
write. Ella C. wrote Add a letter the day you wrote. I think they are thinking of moving into Judge Gale's house on St. Y's Avenue.
Send me a couple of the first violets. Our sleighing is not done yet. Love to all and with ever so much thanks for your present.
I am your loving sister
Lill
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Iron Mountain City, Mich.
April 22nd 1883
Dear Dora
It is Sunday evening and I am sitting on my lounge writing you all alone, excepting Sarah is in the
kitchen. Addison has gone across the street to see a sick baby, so will soon be back. Dr. and
Mrs. Cameron started this afternoon for Milwaukee where they are to stay a few
days. She says she will bring us back some strawberries; but I don't suppose they have the right taste yet. Ask papa If he hasn't any friends living in Milwaukee that we could call on when we visit the city. I have small hopes of going very soon, but Addison can go alone; but I guess he would like me to see the city too, for he tells me
it is a pretty place. One night last winter a man knocked at our door at the hotel and wanted Addison to go with him right away as Mr. Lillibridge was very
sick. Who Lillibridge was, we didn't know, but he dressed and went out not returning till next
morning. He was up all night with the gentleman who turned out to be the head book-keeper of the Menominee Co. up here on a visit for he lives in, and has the office
in Milwaukee. He was taken with cramps, something
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like what papa had once, he fainted, and was quite overcome. As he is a great large man, 6 ft., and never been sick before in his life, I suppose he was pretty well frightened. In the morning he returned home with some one accompanying him. He wanted to pay Add but, he wouldn't take anything, so Mr. L. shook hands with him and told him he would like to have him call at his home. (He is the only one we know of to visit in that city). Well, the other day we had a letter from him saying he had sent by express that day, a chair which he hopes would be accepted with his best wishes. The chair is a pretty gentleman's rocker of white wood with a woven seat, of what looks to be narrow blue braid, but really is wire covered with the blue. Maybe you have seen just such a one in that store on Union Square? Wasn't it nice of him to remember, and send a nice present? Those poor fellows are to be left in the mine for it is unsafe to work. I send you this week's paper and you can read what it says in it. The surviving man at Keel Ridge is doing nicely and his twins are to be called Rose and Lilly. Last week a woman on the location here had twin boys; nine lbs. each exactly 18 lbs. in all. Wasn't that horrible? Addison weighed them to make sure. One of the women in the room told him she would never have him for he
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always brought twins with him. I have made
you a sample of an edge out of feather-edge without using thread. I think it real pretty and out of
finer braid it will look very nearly like
tatting. On one end is the narrow kind, and on the other end the same thing only a little
wider. I am so sorry you have been having so much sickness at home. You must have been kept on the go pretty lively with Poll down so sick it is so nice to know she
is improving; but she must take good care of herself yet a long
while. Give her my love, which I send to you all, and believe me. Your affectionate sister.
L.A.C.
P. S. I suppose the quilt grand-ma B. made the baby was a "crazy quilt" as that is the rage out this
way. How is your quilt getting along and did you ever finish your Persian Mat? Tell me something about
Ham. Does he still write, and has he left his old place of business as he thought of doing?
Leonora
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Iron Mountain City, Mich.
May 15th 1883
Dear Dora
I haven't much to write you, only that yesterday afternoon I was upset out of a buggy. It happened in this way. I was holding the horse while Add was in calling on a sick man; the horse in tossing about her head someway or other managed to hook the check-rein on the shaft. It was the kind that comes from the top of the head too, and I can't see how she could give her head such a twist. Of course, she thought someone wanted her to turn around, and all the pulling on the other rein was of no use; it only made matters worse. It was impossible for me to get out for she wouldn't stand, and the top of the buggy was
up. So, I made up my mind to sit quietly in my seat and wait for the worst. The horse turned all right, and I thought I was in for a run-away; but she dashed over some stumps, by the side of the road. I felt the buggy rock, and I knew there was no help for it went completely on
its side, I was up in an instant and standing at the horse's head quieting her, and trying to unloosen the check. This all happened
in a couple of seconds; so by this time I had plenty of help from some young fellows
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who had reached me. People came to their doors
and looked out but every thing was to-rights In a minute; the harness fixed, the buggy set up again, and I helped in by Mr. Edd. Moore and all as though nothing had happened just as Addison came up. He was pretty well frightened, and during the whole affair the one consoling thought I had was that he couldn't see any of it. Some one went in and told him. Nothing was broken and I don't think I am at all hurt by the accident; although my hat pin was broken in three places and sticking in my hair. My right hip feels a little bit stiff this morning, but I guess it is only from the shock. It might have been bad enough, however and I know I had a lucky escape for that little black mare is a terror to run when she takes it into her head. A good many exciting events have happened around and about me since I have been here and I hope this will be the last until fall anyhow.
Miss Golden, the dressmaker, is here busy at work, and after she leaves we will pick up and move. I rather dread it for I have so many "traps" to pack up. Tell Jeannie to do just as she thinks best about the curtains. If the kind I want are too dear, why, buy the cheese-cloth. On Sunday Addison went fishing for brook trout with a party of our young men here, They took their lunch with them, and did not get home till about four in the afternoon. They only caught
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three trout for it is still too early, but they were
nice large ones. One water duck and a deer was shot, so that made up for the little number of fish. Addison brought the fish home to us, and the duck and venison went to the others. But after the deer was cut up they sent us around quite a nice
piece. Sunday afternoon Dr. Cameron hired a team and double carriage, and took us "Ladies" out to the "Twin Falls" some miles from here. We had a refreshing drive, and the falls were well worth going to see. I have often wondered if Fred Squire was living in Woodruff's big house as it was talked of before I came away. Do tell me, and set my mind at rest.
I have just time to fix up for dinner so will put a stop to this. With ever ever so much love to yourself and all.
I am your loving sister,
Leonora
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Iron Mountain City, Mich.
June 3rd 1883
Dear Dora
Here we are in the month of June. The Arbutus has come and gone and not one have I sent home as I
intended doing, for they were so pretty; but moving, and one thing and another, has taken up our time so that
it has been impossible for us to get off to the woods after
them. We have some pretty wild flowers here that do not grow at home, such as the regular "cow Slip," and a sort of a white lily. Then there are others still to bloom. It is dinner time and Add has just been called away, to sit for hours I suppose with some German woman. He and Mr. Hammond went trout fishing yesterday afternoon; came back about 9 o'clock with over 30 brook trout. His fishing rod and reel cost him 10$ wholesale; and across his shoulders
is slung a wicker fishbasket just like poor little Gertie's locket that I wear, I have been fishing with him twice, (bass fishing) once in Bass Lake, and once in Lake Antoine, had both times poor success; not a single bass did we catch. I fish for the little minnows for bait. Our Lakes around here are very pretty. Addison, some days ago,
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received a letter from a man he used to know in
Stephenson asking him if he would be willing to give him a receipt in full for an old standing bill of over 60$ that his sister-in-law owed him for medical attendance if he would send him 50$ cash, as that was all he was able to pay. Addison never expected a cent of that old debt, and had never asked for it. But, it seems the girl is somewhere out west, and on her deathbed said she cannot rest until her old bill to the Dr. is paid; so that is why the
brother-in-law wrote about it. Addison wrote out and signed the receipt, and sent it to him not knowing nor caring whether the man would be as good as his word and send the money as promised. But to-day from the
P. O. he brought home the 50$ bills.
Have you finished your blue sacque yet? I have on mine to-day that I have just finished. I will enclose a bit of the Cashmere to show you the shade of blue,
it is trimmed with cream colored spanish lace that came from "Primes" store in Marinette. Do you remember where that is? I send you also
Mrs. Cameron's new dresses. The cloth is trimmed with a velvet vest to match, and cuffs. The silk is trimmed with wide and narrow ribbon-velvet--of the same shade. Tell Jeannie the white floss and silk came all right. I am glad she thought of the floss. I got the gingham dress too. Who sent me that? It Is
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very pretty, and I think I will buy blue embroidery to trim it with. Have you made up your white yet? Maybe you can tell me of a new way to make up my
gingham. I am ever so much pleased with it, and want it made as nicely as possible. Love to papa, mama, and the rest.
Your loving sister,
L. A. C.
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Iron Mountain City, Mich.
June 30th 1883
Dear Dora
You speak of being sorry you have nothing to write about, and that is just about the way it is with me. The "fourth" is highly celebrated here; our "Italian Band" is to turn out in full, and as it has been practicing three times a day I suppose they will do their best. I send you the account of how they expect to spend the day here. We will make a freezer of cream to last all day. I will be thinking of our "fourth" last year, and the little bunches of daisies that little Gertie helped with. You remember the Dr. Barry I mentioned in one of my letters? Well, he drove from Norway (8 miles) and called on us last Wednesday week. Looking so so fine and well, in his nice buggy and span of
Blacks. He returned home, but ate no supper, saying he didn't feel very well; went to bed, from which he never got up again, as he died yesterday. He was a tall, fine looking man, and seemingly in the best of health. Some trouble of the stomach caused his
death. He is to be buried to-morrow. Dr. Cameron and Addison have received word to-day that it is the request of Dr. Barry's friends that they shall be among
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the Pall Bearers.
I have been helping Mrs. Cameron hull strawberries (2 cases, 32 qts.) for canning.
So to-day is field day of the Archery Club? We received our invitation, but if it is as warm a day home as it
is here to-day I don't think I should care about being present. Tell papa I got his letter and the two checks all right; they ought almost be preserved for the novelty of the thing. I think I came out best after all by leaving my money in the old Freedman's Bank, don't you?
I have some double pink Geraniums and Pansies in my little silver vase on the bureau; and the only growing plant in my window is a Madeira Vine. If we ever get a house out here you must send me some
slips. I should want them even now for plants grow splendidly here, and my windows get all the morning sun; only I am afraid they would perish in the winter. I am glad you had such a good time in
Baltimore. Is Jeannie going on a Summer's trip this year, and where do they intend going? Does Hilda forget you all, now that they have moved? How were the cherries this year? I haven't had any but once. Add got up at 2 o'clock the other morning and went fishing. While fishing he wades in the brook up to his waist so every thing he has on is about sopping wet.
The city flag pole now being erected for the 4th will cost 200$.
Love to all,
Your loving sister-
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Book Page 48
Iron Mountain City, Mich.
July 20th 1883
Dear Dora
I have just finished sweeping and cleaning my room, as it is Friday. I washed the windows, for now that our wire screens are on all the windows the flies will not bother us
anymore. I have such a nice room; but I have never yet dared to use my pillowshams, for Addison comes in at all hours and tumbles the pillows all up whenever he feels like it. He thinks he is doing all that is necessary when he takes a newspaper to put under his feet, to keep the dust and ore off of my white spread. I had it washed last week so that it will be nice and fresh when I want
it. Until then I am using the gray one. You remember the nice piece of rubber cloth papa brought home for Gertie when she was a baby? Well, I have 3 or 4 yds. of that for my bed too; enough to cover it completely but the better way is to cut it and use it in smaller
pieces. I am glad Auntie Maria is to have a change at last of being "head nurse" to one of us. I knew it sometime ago so it is no secret. Addison says it was the "powder box" that did it. I made some very nice Boston Cream Cakes
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yesterday. Whatever I feel like cooking I do. Whenever we have lettuce I make a "Mayonnaise dressing" such as "Durkees." They don't keep sweet oil in this house, but butter takes its place, and this is how I make it; 8 Tablespoonfuls of vinegar, one big one of butter, one or a little more of sugar, Teaspoonful of salt and not quite a Teaspoonful of mustard. Wet with a little water, let it come to a boil, and then add one beaten egg and keep stirring it till
it is a little thicker than thick cream. Set it off to cool, and it will keep some time. I had a better opinion of Walter C's fishing than to suppose all that he could catch would be Toad-fish, and they such horrid animals.
We haven't had but two or three days when Summer dresses could be worn. Today is cold and blustry just like a fall
day. To night Addison takes his ''third degree."
I must close now and go to dinner. With much love to all.
Your loving sister,
L. A. C.
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Iron Mountain City, Mich.
August 5th 1883
Dear Dora,
One month from today and I will have been married a year. It hardly seems possible when I think of it and "Chub" isn't here yet! Add calls "it" Chub because he says it
is a
Sucker. Nice talk for a man, isn't it? Still its the only name we know it by. When you see Walter Cladek ask him
if he remembers a Dr. Frank Burt, who was in Charity Hospital on Blackwell's I. at the same time he was. This Dr. called on us a few days ago; he has been looking over the Range here to see if there isn't some opening for him. He has been looking after a small physician's practice in Ohio while he has been away in Europe for two years. He seemed to know Walter pretty well. Both Add and Dr. Cameron thought him quite a pleasant young man; they talked over the prospects of up here for a Dr., but of course, all the places up here are well supplied.
I have been reading whatever books I can get hold of that are worth reading. If you have any of the Sea-side that you think I would like I would be glad to get them, for they will help pass the time for I don't go anywhere now, and don't suppose I will till sometime after this.
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I haven't anything to write that would interest
anyone, but thought as it is Sunday I would send you a few lines just to let you all know that we are all
well.
My love I send to all.
Your loving sister,
L.A.C.
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Iron Mountain City, Mich.
Sept. 16th 1883
Dear Dora
Baby and I are all alone in the house excepting Johanna who has just come
in. I have just succeeded in getting her to sleep, after putting on her night-clothes. It is after 5 o'clock; rather early to undress her, but I have to whenever I get a good chance for she might fall asleep, and I never like to wake her up to change her clothes. It is about all I can do to dress myself and baby, and fix up my room every day. I don't see how people manage when they have more than one little "fellow." Walter and Joe started yesterday afternoon, along with two other fellows, to camp out some 20 miles from
here. They took provisions and food for the horses, guns and fishing tackle. Walter promised to bring me home a deer, partridges, and trout. They will be home tomorrow. I like Walter ever so much; he
is so "easy" as Miss Horah used to speak of Baumann. He says he must have the baby's picture to take home. He thinks one can just about see her grow. I have been thinking she was losing her good looks, but I can hardly tell yet. I watch her very closely, for I am so afraid of her turning out homely. If she was a
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boy now it wouldn't matter. I think this was one
of the reasons I wanted a boy. I have had to rip the bands off of her night petticoats and let out some of the pleats. And the little shirt mama bought just fits across her back. She begins to "coo" and laugh at you when she is good humored. She wakes good and early in the mornings, and Add tumbles her around till I am dressed. He says he is going to give up calling her Chub for he found out a little boy here 3 years old is called by his father the
same. Johanna and I will have supper alone to-night for Add is off again. I hope we will be allowed to eat it in peace before her ladyship wakes up. Johanna keeps her
in the kitchen for me at meal
times. She seems to make it a point to be awake at these hours.
I sent you the knitting extra along with some music. Look through the bundle till you come to "Ben Bolt" and play that for mama's benefit; for it
is her favorite old piece about "sweet Alice
etc." This is much longer than the snip of a letter you sent me so I will close. I got the book you sent all right. Hope it will prove good.
Leonora
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Iron Mountain City, Mich.
October 1st 1883
Dear Dora
As this is the first day for our new stamps, I thought I would use the first in answering your letter. We are still alone and miss the "boys" ever so much. I hope they had a pleasant time while here. Let me know if their visit was a success, and what description they give of the
baby. Walter tried to draw her picture for mama, but it looked just like the dolls we used to draw, so it was a failure. I am going to take her, some fine day soon, down to "Nicholas J. Vivian's" and have some kind of a picture taken of her, so that you can form some idea of what she looks like before her hair falls
out. It begins to, a little. You mustn't expect anything better than a Tin-type as this gentle-man, I am afraid, is not much of an artist. We received to-day a dispatch for
Dr. Cameron saying his brother Paul out in Manitoba is very sick with Typhoid Fever and wishing him to come at once. Addison sent the message to the Hotel in Chicago where the Dr. usually stays for he was to have been here to-day; there fore, must be
in Chicago. If he gets the message he will probably start off at once so Add may be alone with all the practice
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here for some days yet, and it is a good deal
for one man to attend to.
Has Joe told you of the handsome basket of fruit Addison gave me for a wedding present? He sent to Chicago for it, but it did not get here in time. In all it weighed about 20
lbs. There were peaches, bananas, plums, red and white grapes, and Bartlett and Sickel pears. It was beautiful. I have never seen prettier fruit any where. Addison had his birthday last
Friday. He has left the Twenties now for good. He came home with the letter you sent him and tried to make me believe there was something in it not for me to see. But, I made him hand
it over. Tell Will Stephens the boys read the "Clam Bake" in our Forest and Stream which we get every week, and they all know who wrote it without being told. So he thinks it comical that "Buster has a
baby." Add says it will be a long time before he (Will) has one. Give love to all and write me all the news.
Your loving sister,
L. A. C.
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Iron Mountain City, Mich.
October 21st 1883
Dear Dora
While Mrs. Cameron is holding "snipkins" whom she has worked off to sleep, I will hurry and write you before she wakes up. I am afraid I have spoiled her. For the minute I lay her on the bed open go the eyes; and at night she has to lay on my arm so that in the morning they (the arms) feel quite stiff. She weighs 13 lbs. and is two feet long, for Mrs. Cameron measured her this morning while I was dressing her. Mrs. Cameron wrote Dr. Cameron she would not know what to do home here without him if it was not for Baby. Dr. Cameron cannot say when he will return for his brother as yet is not better, day after day keeps the
same. What a tedious uncertain disease Typhoid Fever is! Well, to return to "babykin." These are all her pet names although the ladies in general call her Gertie. At times I think she looks a little like Jennie Crowell, then like little Joe Crosby. I think she takes after Addison more than me, but it is hard to say yet.
One day last week Mrs. C. and I walked with her to the lower end of town to N. J. Vivian's to get her photo taken for
you. Well, I carried her,
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and when we got there our artist was at work taking two little children so we had to wait sometime, and I was so afraid baby would get tired out for she was on her good behavior and looked so cunning in her English dress. Tell mama it looks ten times as pretty when on. Well, Nicholas finished with the children at last, and then came in for Snipkins. He put his big hand all over her little head and called her "little black head." I wanted to hold her but he said he had a better plan, so sat her on a high covered stool and placed a brace under her arms. Then he fixed the plate, and spoiled it before using it, so had to fix another, and the poor child had to sit there all that time taking cold as I knew in her thin dress. We got the tin type at last and I didn't like it, but he told me it would be better after it was touched up. So he touched it up by putting three gold pins in it, and it didn't make me believe it looked a bit better for it was all the world like a dressed up monkey, and taken so small that it was no good at all. I paid him the quarter and hurried out with "chick" for it was growing late and she was beginning to worry. All went very well for a block or two but then she began to cry and I did not know what to do with her. Mrs. Cameron laughed at me and asked me what made my face so red. I took her into Mrs. Seibert's where I quieted her. Mrs. Seibert insisted upon lending me her baby's carriage to wheel baby home in.
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I was glad she did for my arms ached. If the
picture had been anything like Snipkins I surely would have sent it to you. Yesterday evening we had our new Coal Stove put up. It cost 25$ and is a nice self-feeder about the same size as the one mama gave Jeannie. I think It was so kind of Edie to remember, wasn't it? I opened the package before the letter and was sure Jeannie sent them for I thought I recognized her writing on the envelope.
If we are here next spring we intend to build a little house and then Addison says you must come and visit us. I hope you will find us all that we ought to be.
I think Ben acts as you say he does just to tease; if he saw that no notice was taken of
it, I am quite sure he would soon stop it. Mama has written me some little while ago that all at home was kindness
in feeling one toward another, so don't you think a little of it is imagination? As for Poll, she
is young yet, and when she gets a little older she will have better sense; so don't regard what she says or does. I am ever so pleased to know you will be so glad to see me and I hope we will all have some happy days together.
Your loving sister,
Leonora
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Iron Mountain, Mich.
Jan. 22nd 1884
Dear Dora
Your letter came yesterday. I also received the package with the soap and sponge, and thank you for the same. As you may know, I forgot my cactus, date tree, and orange tree, much to my disgust, so you will have to attend to them until this spring for me when they can be sent without fear of frost. My only plant here, a geranium off of which I used to pick an occasional leaf for Chub to wear has frozen down to the ground since Add left. Today would have been the day for me to have started from
J. C. and I am heartily glad I am over my journey as I think we will have a big snowstorm; for it has begun, and the air is full of it. It was so nice of Ben to see me on board the train. He was the last from home that I knew. Did not see C. W. Ward while passing through Rahway. We went so fast. I had everything nice to eat on the train; fresh oysters, quail, and french peas, and broiled plover were among the delicacies, topped off with cream.
Dr. and Mrs. Cameron have gone to Norway today. Will not return till evening. Baby is asleep at present, so I am taking my chance
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to write you. I shingled baby's hair on Sunday. Wish I had done it before leaving you for it is a great improvement. I hope her pictures will look well. I took the proofs away with me but they must have dropped out of my pocket for I cannot find them. I have not seen yet those little presents that were awaiting my arrival home as they had been ordered from George Selbert, and he has not received them yet so cannot tell you what they are, as I have not heard. Add has bought the baby her moccasins and they are the prettiest I have seen of the kind; an Indian Woman made them, and there is a little embroidered rose bud on each toe. It is some days since I began this letter, and have not had a chance to finish it until now. You ought to see baby just now! Add brought home two dolls hammocks and I have just finished knotting them together so that it makes a dear little hammock for her. It swings from the head-board to the foot-board of the bed, right across the middle, and has Mrs. Savage's crib-quilt and your pillows in it. She lies in it just like a little canoe and has gone fast to sleep on the first trial. I am sure it will be quite a help to me for I can swing her and attend to other things besides. Tell Ward Add says he forgot a very important point in his will so thinks he will have to add a codicil. It is all because he forgot to say in case of my
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marrying again all the property goes to Chub.
Too bad isn't it?
Eva told Clarie he would be supported out of the family. Add did not know the regular will fee, but what he gave Clarie he thought right. Hope he and Frank will make something out of the old house. Let me know all about
it. I had my velvet basque on yesterday for the first. Add likes it very much. Wouldn't, I suppose if he knew I made it. Says it fits good. What cranks men are! I put
it on in honor of A. C. Brown who dined with us at 5 o'clock. You heard of him in Marinette? His home
is
there. He is one of the heads of the Menominee Mining Company. Baby is still asleep. I would give a good deal if you all could take a look at
her. She looks too cunning for anything. Today Mrs. C. & I are going to call on all the new babies. Dinner is about
ready. I must close now.
Love to all.
Your loving sister, Leonora
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Iron Mountain, Mich.
April 22nd 1884
Dear Dora
Yes, I know I owe you a letter, and Jeannie too, so I will try and write you a little now while baby and little Jessie Hammond are playing on the floor. Jessie lives next door. My little house has been begun and
it will not take many more weeks before it is finished. The next letter I write mama will be bothering her to pack up my things. Will you help her Doe, and see that nothing is forgotten? Ben's Statuette and all the other traps? I suppose Frank will have to hunt up a big strong box so that they will come in
safety. The little locket for baby has not come yet. The "International News C." sent me word that my subscription in the Bazar had expired, so I wrote them not to renew it. It is the second notice they have sent.
What a beautiful carriage Mrs. Coles gave the boy ! You can't think how impatiently I am waiting for
Gertie's Carriage to
come. It is about the same as carrying Hilda about where ever you have to go. I know all about the Kensington Painting that you are learning; that is, I know how it is
done. It was going the rounds in this town while I was at home Christmas,
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and when Add came on, he told Eva about it, and she went and hunted it up, I think
in N. Y. It is very pretty and I will be very much pleased with a sample from you of your own work. Only I want it to be large enough to be of some use in my new house. Mrs. Cameron learned the art too. It
is the greatest exception to find, among the ladies here, one who has not, or does not, do painting of some
description. It is the rage just like the "crazy-bed quilts." My seeds have sprouted and I hope to have some fresh vegetables from my own garden this
summer. I suppose Jeannie is thinking about returning to Rahway about this time, and you will all be together again. The little boy will have a fine time among so many grown up ones.
I have been making up the gingham mama sent me last summer. I have trimmed it with feather-edge. Write me a long letter and tell me whether the carriage has been sent or if there is any trouble about getting
it. I hope soon to send you some Arbutus.
Love to all.
Your affectionate sister,
L. A. C.
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Book Page 64
Iron Mountain, Mich.
June 16th 1884
Dear Dora
Many thanks for the receipt for Ginger Beer. I meant to try it today, but like a good many other things, could find no time for it; for though we are over in our house and sleep here, as yet our girl has not arrived, will not until sometime in July, so we still board with
Dr. Cameron and wife.
Everyday brings it's own work and I find enough to do with only keeping our one floor in
order. Our home is a dear little one in my opinion. I have everything in it that I could wish for. Add complains of only having nothing to eat in
it. Today my ice-box came and I think it a good one; cost 22.00, make "Centennial." Our dining room furniture is of cherry; 1/2 doz. chairs, extension side-board; just as fine a one as can be found anywhere. Our kitchen stove, or as they are called here, Range, cost 60.00 and an excellent one; the best that can be had. I was very much pleased with the knives, forks and spoons that papa sent me, and they look very pretty in the side-board drawer which
is lined with dark red velvet for silverware. I have been very busy cleaning all my silver. Aunt
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Annie's table cloth will only look like large sized
napkins on the table when it is pushed into its smallest for which I feel sorry, as they are both pretty
patterns. Maria's is the right kind of a size. Georgie Thorne and Florence are expected up here in Iron Mt. to visit their cousin George Corning. I should like to keep them, but as yet we have bought no furniture for upstairs, and will not think about fixing up our spare room until later in the summer as there are so many, many, little things to get yet before the house will be
in running order. So if you think of visiting us, as mama wrote me, let me know in time, by all means, so that I can get your room ready. At present it is only in shades and a closet.
I have a great time writing this for my child is howling for attention on the floor. She has to be watched by the minute for she catches flies and sand bugs on the window and eats them before I can turn around. She can all but walk, goes along the edge of the bed nicely, and has two teeth. I shall be most happy to send you a photo to paint, and shall take the baby down to our artist here and see if he can take one of her worth sending you, as I would rather you would paint her picture than any other. Frank must have had a severe attack of sickness;
it is good he got over it so nicely. Tell Poll I am much obliged for the picture she sent. All my goods came without damage,
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excepting the engraving, which was completely
ruined, torn through the centre.
Love to all.
Your aff. sister
Leonora
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Book Page 67
March 15th 1885
Dear Dora
I suppose you agree with me that it is high time I returned E. J. P. B. 's letter; so I will
send it along with this to-day. Did you send him the little "yes" he wanted?
I hear continually of your painting, but as yet have seen nothing; isn't it about time to be looking out for a sample of it? Before I forget
it, I must tell you that our baby is to be called Leonora after its or (rather her) mother. This is her father's selection; he says
if I won't call her that she won't get any other name at all. He thinks Nora pretty for short. Don't you think she could be called "Lorna?" It reminds me of the books Baumann always was talking about. "Lorna Doon" I think was the name. I never read the story. You did I think. Do you think it would do to call her such? Tell me, or send word through mama. Christine
is pretty but too common here where there are so many Swedes who are not as attractive as Christine N.
We had a Chimney Sweep cleaning our chimney, and he made such a fearful job of it, letting soot fall over the floor, that I had to turn our carpet; so Mattie and I got to it, and it Saturday too. We took it up, cleaned all the room, and
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had it down again before dinner; smart work
I think for a woman with a family.
This paper is still some of that which Ben gave me that Christmas when he gave some to you
too. It isn't enough for me to be raising children but I have taken upon myself the trouble of
bird-raising too. The little hen has two pretty eggs now. It is Gertrude's bird and I wouldn't have bothered with
it only she laid two or three eggs in the bottom of the cage so I had to make her a nest.
Gertrude has a slate and pencil now, and we have all we can do to make "chickies" and "men"
for her. There is no "let up" to the drawing and reading out of Mother Goose
Book. I haven't decided whether I am sorry or glad that you gave her that book. I wish you could see it--the dirt of it. I had to sew all the pages
in
too. If it had not been linen, It would not be in the land of the living today.
We have had a big fall of snow again, our winter is by no means over yet. We saw by the paper the Rahway Depot was burned. Too bad it was such a pretty one. Love to all.
L.A.C.