Heber & Caroline – A Love Story – Letter Fifteen 3/10/1924
When our mother passed away I was going through her things and found a stack of letters written by my maternal grandfather Heber to my maternal grandmother Caroline (aka Carrie). The letters cover an 18 month period during the great depression. My grandparents lived in Newfoundland and work was very scarce. Heber during this time stayed and worked in Massachusetts and Connecticut looking for whatever work he could find. Meanwhile Caroline stayed in Newfoundland with the children. Heber wrote Caroline a letter each month. The letters are very interesting as not only do they give a perspective of the time, it shows just how difficult life was. I will each Sunday include photos of the actual letters which I have transcribed with the help of my brother Dana Donovan and sister Barbara Ridgway. Although Heber’s handwriting is very pretty to look at, it can be difficult to read.
Here is letter thirteen written 3/10/1924 (some of the letters were out of order)
3/10/24
My Dearest Wife,
Just a few lines saying I am well trusting you are the same. Haven’t any strange news worth telling you. I was a bit disappointed today because I dident get any letter from you, as this is my regular day to get them, and I sure do feel blue when I don’t get a letter every week. It seems natural to look for a letter every Monday and when I don’t get one you can imagine how I feel. Of course sweetheart I know
it is not your fault. I suppose I will get one during the week.
Well Dear it is certainly good weather up here now, nice and warm. I am still working but the job will be finished this week. The foreman told me today he was going home for a while but as soon as he gets another job he will let me know. His home is in Providence, RI. He may get me work there. He ask if I’d be willing to go down there for the summer with him. I told him it was as well for me to go with him. As perhaps loose the best part of my summer around here. But of course he may have more work here. He don’t know
yet where they will send him.
Give my best respects to all the family and friends. Take care of yourself and the children. I think I have said all for this time. Will write again soon.
From your loving & devoted Husband
xxxxxxxxxxxx
