From Gwen's Letter dated January 2, 1938--
"My Dearest Jim,
Boy oh boy, am I glad that first year is over with and we're still in love and I'm even more in love with you. It really wasn't so bad, Sweetheart, was it[?] Everyone tells me the second year goes faster so before we know it we'll be in each others arms again. I wonder how we'll feel when we see each other for the very first time after two years. I'll probably be so thrilled my legs will just fold right up or maybe I'll be so excited I'll make a bee line straight for you. . . Oh kid, won't that be a grand day? I wonder if it will be raining, snowing, or sunny and where do you suppose we'll be?
". . .Last night David O. McKay spoke and it was wonderful. He's such an attractive man for his age. Last night he said to make the New Year happy: 1. Realize you're master of your own actions so choose right 2. Value health and keep it 3. See God in nature and beauty 4. Live for others that you might be of service to them. Sweetheart, let's you and I try to be like him. I think he's grand and I know you do."
From Gwen's Letter dated January 16, 1938--
"Every place I go I meet people who either knew you in England or have talked to someone who did. Brother Stout just told me that his nephew-in-law, a Farrell somebody, just got home and told all about you. He says you're one of the best speakers they have over there now. Is that true? I guess maybe now you're giving them speeches as interesting as most of these letters I'm receiving from you. Anyway it surely thrills me to hear all about you and your success. It is worth it. . .and that's . . .the only reason why I was willing to be separated from you for two years. . .I am happy in looking to the future and in hearing of the fulfillment of your desires. . .It makes me feel good to know that you're not sorry you went. . .
"Ha! Wednesday and Thursday really are the one year mark for me because they were the last time I was with you and when they're gone I can really start getting excited waiting for 1939. . . I'm sending a rose--imagine sending love in a rose this time of year . . . Know that with that rose and its fragrance I send devoted sincere love to you. Thinking of you always, Gwen"
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Changes and A Perfect Summer Day
From Jim's Journal, Tues. Aug. 24, 1937, So Shields
"We had our class, song and prayer and then I helped Bro. Blanch make ready. After he had cleaned up his stuff I started and packed. We are leaving 44 Salmon Street after six months here. . .saw the other Elders, Blanch and Hart off to Middlesbro and Bryson and I returned to carry my trunk over as well as several other things, and my new home is in 92 Ocean Rd, So. Shields. . .Geo. Bryson of the Central Park Ward is my companion."
Sat. Aug 28, 1937--
". . .Bryson and I enjoy ourselves pretty much as companions, so I know that when I and he are home we will have some good laughs."
When asked to "Describe a perfect summer day," Gwen wrote:
"Dad's alfalfa crop covered the west field edge by Mill Creek and Wandamere Brook. It was so peaceful and attractive. The twin calves, tied to the same rope, grazed in the alfalfa. . . and I sat leisurely in the porch swing dreaming of the day . . . when Jim would return from his mission to England." (From "Reflection from a Mother's Heart," 1998)
"We had our class, song and prayer and then I helped Bro. Blanch make ready. After he had cleaned up his stuff I started and packed. We are leaving 44 Salmon Street after six months here. . .saw the other Elders, Blanch and Hart off to Middlesbro and Bryson and I returned to carry my trunk over as well as several other things, and my new home is in 92 Ocean Rd, So. Shields. . .Geo. Bryson of the Central Park Ward is my companion."
Sat. Aug 28, 1937--
". . .Bryson and I enjoy ourselves pretty much as companions, so I know that when I and he are home we will have some good laughs."
When asked to "Describe a perfect summer day," Gwen wrote:
"Dad's alfalfa crop covered the west field edge by Mill Creek and Wandamere Brook. It was so peaceful and attractive. The twin calves, tied to the same rope, grazed in the alfalfa. . . and I sat leisurely in the porch swing dreaming of the day . . . when Jim would return from his mission to England." (From "Reflection from a Mother's Heart," 1998)
Thursday, June 24, 2010
A Jimmy Stewart Look Alike?
From Gwen's Letter, July, 26, 1937--
"Dearest Sweetheart,
Have you ever walked down the path leading to your home and been almost afraid to go in for fear you'd be disappointed when you walked straight for the buffet and didn't find what you wanted to find so much? Well to-night I started down Welby--I ran at first then stopped suddenly and said 'Now, Gwen, you know what an awful person you are when you look forward to a letter from him and then you don't find it' so I took my own advice and walked slowly while I tried to make up my mind what I'd do if I didn't get a letter but whoopie I got two and was I ever thrilled but, honey, here's a secret, I was twice as thrilled when I opened them and read them. Honestly, Jim dear, I don't believe there's another fellow who can write such grand letters as you do. I just sit and read them over and over and then I have to hurry and get a book or go for a walk or something to get my mind off the fact that I want you here so much.
" . . . Mary and I just had to go see 'Born to Dance' because the lead was James Stewart
and due to the similarity of two certain fellows both named 'James' we saw it and kid my heart just fluttered all over when I saw him because honestly he is like you in more ways than one."
While on his mission, Jim was often told he looked like Jimmy Stewart
". . .You asked me to put you on the carpet now as a husband so here goes. My picture of you as a husband in 20 years (Take it with a grain of sugar)
1. Your one outstanding failing will be my hats. Right?
2. You'll say 'Gwen, for goodness sakes why can't you cook like Mom.'
3. You'll hate cats. . .
5.You'll probably wear out that little black headed fellow's train and ruin little blondie's doll by playing with them so much.
6. You'll snore.
. . . but you'll be the best husband I've had on the carpet yet and I feel sorry for all these other girls who can't have a husband just like you."
"Dearest Sweetheart,
Have you ever walked down the path leading to your home and been almost afraid to go in for fear you'd be disappointed when you walked straight for the buffet and didn't find what you wanted to find so much? Well to-night I started down Welby--I ran at first then stopped suddenly and said 'Now, Gwen, you know what an awful person you are when you look forward to a letter from him and then you don't find it' so I took my own advice and walked slowly while I tried to make up my mind what I'd do if I didn't get a letter but whoopie I got two and was I ever thrilled but, honey, here's a secret, I was twice as thrilled when I opened them and read them. Honestly, Jim dear, I don't believe there's another fellow who can write such grand letters as you do. I just sit and read them over and over and then I have to hurry and get a book or go for a walk or something to get my mind off the fact that I want you here so much.
" . . . Mary and I just had to go see 'Born to Dance' because the lead was James Stewart
and due to the similarity of two certain fellows both named 'James' we saw it and kid my heart just fluttered all over when I saw him because honestly he is like you in more ways than one."
While on his mission, Jim was often told he looked like Jimmy Stewart
". . .You asked me to put you on the carpet now as a husband so here goes. My picture of you as a husband in 20 years (Take it with a grain of sugar)
1. Your one outstanding failing will be my hats. Right?
2. You'll say 'Gwen, for goodness sakes why can't you cook like Mom.'
3. You'll hate cats. . .
5.You'll probably wear out that little black headed fellow's train and ruin little blondie's doll by playing with them so much.
6. You'll snore.
. . . but you'll be the best husband I've had on the carpet yet and I feel sorry for all these other girls who can't have a husband just like you."
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Mission Conference in Preston and Rochdale
From Jim's Journal, Wed. July 28, 1937. Preston to Rochdale.
". . .We rode a bus out of Preston to be on the rode to Rochdale. There we made a ride to a place out and around Blackburn. Then after we walked a short distance a truck brought us to Manchester, so we waited until he had unloaded his lumber, and rode with him to Royton. We rode a tram out of Royton and a bus into Rochdale. . .At two P.M. we had our first Elders meeting, President Cannon presiding. It was great to see so many fine Elders all together. When Pres. Cannon called for those who hiked, then those who did not hike, those who did not certainly were booed and hissed."
Thurs. July 29, 1937. Rochdale.
"We were up dressed and went down to a breakfast of bacon and tomatoes bathed in grease. Then we took ourselves to the Hall and into a meeting and a discussion on the Millennial Star. . . Pres. Brown [Hugh B. Brown] spoke to us again, he had spoken to us on Wednesday afternoon, and found his way into every Elder's heart in the hall. We then went for lunch and a malt again, before returning to a second meeting and testimony meeting. An Elder's testimony meeting is one of the finest things a person can attend for truly the spirit of the Lord is there and can be felt. Each person who talks is so humble and sincere in his talk and actions."
Fri. July 30, 1937. Rochdale to Preston and return.
" . . . We met at the town hall and in chartered busses went in a caravan to Preston, where the Gospel had been preached one hundred years before. The caravan took us to Vauxhall where the first Mormon missionaries preached in England for the first time.
Then we went to the cookpit and lodge where they stopped. At the Vauxhall Chapel I spoke to and shook hands with Pres. Grant and Clark [Pres. Heber J. Grant and J. Reuben Clark]. We then went to the bank of the River Ribble where we held an open air service and unveiled a plaque commemorating the first baptisms one hundred years before. Our open air service was a success and everyone enjoyed it. 
Back in our busses we returned to Rochdale and to the cafe for tea. We, Robison, Blanch and I, had tea with Pres. Brown and Bishop Taggart, and again found Pres. Brown to have a rare sense of humor."
Commemorative Millennial Star, which includes the program celebrating 100 years of Missionary Work in England
Sat. July 31, 1937. Rochdale.
". . . Elder Cannon and I went down to the town, had a drink, bought me a tie and out to his lodge for him to shave. . . After tea we went to the Town Hall to see the Pageant and there I met Leila who had come over from Middleton. We could not get in, so we had a talk out in the park about church, Salt Lake, home, and parents and family. She is nice to talk to and very interested in what she has heard about the church and what I have to say about it and the truth of the matter. We talked quite late, then went to the town hall where I made her acquainted with several of the Elders. Then I saw her to the bus and on her way home. I returned to my own lodge and called it a day. And so to bed. Tired and happy. So far our conference has seen nothing but success and I know it will continue. . . I had a letter from Gwen this morning and in her letter I found the same sweet, lovable Gwen that I left at home. Something tells me that she will be there when I return to Salt Lake. For truly she must love me, if what she tells me is true. And now I am in love with her and when I return, I hope to find her there, that we can enjoy the plans we have for the future. For truly and sincerely do I love her.
"This ends the first seven months of 1937 and what I call my mission. My testimony is stronger, my desire to serve is greater, my faith has not wavered. 'So, Carry On.' "
". . .We rode a bus out of Preston to be on the rode to Rochdale. There we made a ride to a place out and around Blackburn. Then after we walked a short distance a truck brought us to Manchester, so we waited until he had unloaded his lumber, and rode with him to Royton. We rode a tram out of Royton and a bus into Rochdale. . .At two P.M. we had our first Elders meeting, President Cannon presiding. It was great to see so many fine Elders all together. When Pres. Cannon called for those who hiked, then those who did not hike, those who did not certainly were booed and hissed."
Thurs. July 29, 1937. Rochdale.
"We were up dressed and went down to a breakfast of bacon and tomatoes bathed in grease. Then we took ourselves to the Hall and into a meeting and a discussion on the Millennial Star. . . Pres. Brown [Hugh B. Brown] spoke to us again, he had spoken to us on Wednesday afternoon, and found his way into every Elder's heart in the hall. We then went for lunch and a malt again, before returning to a second meeting and testimony meeting. An Elder's testimony meeting is one of the finest things a person can attend for truly the spirit of the Lord is there and can be felt. Each person who talks is so humble and sincere in his talk and actions."
Fri. July 30, 1937. Rochdale to Preston and return.
" . . . We met at the town hall and in chartered busses went in a caravan to Preston, where the Gospel had been preached one hundred years before. The caravan took us to Vauxhall where the first Mormon missionaries preached in England for the first time.
Then we went to the cookpit and lodge where they stopped. At the Vauxhall Chapel I spoke to and shook hands with Pres. Grant and Clark [Pres. Heber J. Grant and J. Reuben Clark]. We then went to the bank of the River Ribble where we held an open air service and unveiled a plaque commemorating the first baptisms one hundred years before. Our open air service was a success and everyone enjoyed it. 
Back in our busses we returned to Rochdale and to the cafe for tea. We, Robison, Blanch and I, had tea with Pres. Brown and Bishop Taggart, and again found Pres. Brown to have a rare sense of humor."Commemorative Millennial Star, which includes the program celebrating 100 years of Missionary Work in England
Sat. July 31, 1937. Rochdale.
". . . Elder Cannon and I went down to the town, had a drink, bought me a tie and out to his lodge for him to shave. . . After tea we went to the Town Hall to see the Pageant and there I met Leila who had come over from Middleton. We could not get in, so we had a talk out in the park about church, Salt Lake, home, and parents and family. She is nice to talk to and very interested in what she has heard about the church and what I have to say about it and the truth of the matter. We talked quite late, then went to the town hall where I made her acquainted with several of the Elders. Then I saw her to the bus and on her way home. I returned to my own lodge and called it a day. And so to bed. Tired and happy. So far our conference has seen nothing but success and I know it will continue. . . I had a letter from Gwen this morning and in her letter I found the same sweet, lovable Gwen that I left at home. Something tells me that she will be there when I return to Salt Lake. For truly she must love me, if what she tells me is true. And now I am in love with her and when I return, I hope to find her there, that we can enjoy the plans we have for the future. For truly and sincerely do I love her.
"This ends the first seven months of 1937 and what I call my mission. My testimony is stronger, my desire to serve is greater, my faith has not wavered. 'So, Carry On.' "
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
June 19 !!
From Gwen's Letter dated June 13, 1937--
"Dearest Jim,
I'm surely glad of a June 19 because if there had never been a June 19 I wouldn't have the picture I requested.
I was plenty happy to finally receive it. I really began to believe you were never going to send it but now I have it so I won't be a beefin' Bill anymore. Please wait a minute though while I beef just once more. OK, here goes. I think the photographer didn't make you as good looking as you really are though but, nevertheless I'm plenty glad to have it and also to know that you still remember our June 19 just as you always remember our anniversaries. I say there old chap if I may say so I know jolly well you'll make a toppin 'usband. Now wouldn't that knock ye fer a cocked hat by jove. Gee, honey, I wish you were here at least for June 19. I guess I'll have to go up Lambs [Canyon] all alone or if I can't do that I could standout by the roses and watch our old moon come slowly over Mount Olympus and be with you in spirit."
Proofs of the Professional Photos Jim had taken in England
From Jim's Journal, Sat. June 19, 1937. Egremont to So. Shilelds
"Four years ago today, I kissed my only sweetheart for the first time. Today I wake up and Eva and Margaret came in and we talked and then said goodbye for the time being. Then I had my breakfast and at ten Uncle Harry and I went to Whitehaven. He saw me on a bus to Workington and then I hiked to Maryport. It was starting to rain so I bussed into Carlisle and took a train to Newcastle and So. Shield where I arrived at 5:30 P.M. Had letters from Gwen and home, . . . wrote some letters and a glorious week was ended. I have had a fine time. The country over there [St. Bees] is beautiful and the folks [did] all they could to make me feel at home."
From Gwen's letter, June 20, 1937--
"My Dearest Sweetheart,
With all my heart I can say you're the grandest man in the world, the most thoughtful and the best prospect for an ideal husband. Jim, dear, I mean every word of it. For two weeks I waited anxiously for a letter. Your picture came to thrill me and then as June 19 came closer and closer I hoped so much that I'd hear from you on or before 'our' day because you and only you are the one I want to be near on that day. Well finally on June 19 I got not only one letter but two. Mother and Dad met me up town and I was swept off my feet. Yes, right there on Main Street when she handed me your letters. We went to a show after that and I just couldn't wait to get home and read those two long looked for letters and they were both perfect. I could have bawled I was so thrilled and happy to be engaged to such a considerate, romantic and grand fellow. Sweetheart, I love you so much that sometimes two years seems an eternity and yet almost 1/4 of the time has slipped by. When we got home from town I had to fight with myself to keep from crying all over everything for there were your roses.
Jim, they were beautiful. Our symbol so fresh and unblemished. Darling, I can't tell you in words how wonderful you are but I feel it so deeply that I wouldn't trade being engaged and expecting to be married to you for anything in this wide world and that's right from the heart. Mother also told me she thought you were about the most thoughtful man she'd ever known and Dad was radiant over your letter to him . . .
" . . . Our mission in life is going to be a glorious one, sweetheart just because I'll be with you working and living and just because I love you so much. Here's kisses and a fond embrace from your sincere sweetheart of 1933 and years to come. Gwen."
"Dearest Jim,
I'm surely glad of a June 19 because if there had never been a June 19 I wouldn't have the picture I requested.
I was plenty happy to finally receive it. I really began to believe you were never going to send it but now I have it so I won't be a beefin' Bill anymore. Please wait a minute though while I beef just once more. OK, here goes. I think the photographer didn't make you as good looking as you really are though but, nevertheless I'm plenty glad to have it and also to know that you still remember our June 19 just as you always remember our anniversaries. I say there old chap if I may say so I know jolly well you'll make a toppin 'usband. Now wouldn't that knock ye fer a cocked hat by jove. Gee, honey, I wish you were here at least for June 19. I guess I'll have to go up Lambs [Canyon] all alone or if I can't do that I could standout by the roses and watch our old moon come slowly over Mount Olympus and be with you in spirit."
Proofs of the Professional Photos Jim had taken in England
From Jim's Journal, Sat. June 19, 1937. Egremont to So. Shilelds
"Four years ago today, I kissed my only sweetheart for the first time. Today I wake up and Eva and Margaret came in and we talked and then said goodbye for the time being. Then I had my breakfast and at ten Uncle Harry and I went to Whitehaven. He saw me on a bus to Workington and then I hiked to Maryport. It was starting to rain so I bussed into Carlisle and took a train to Newcastle and So. Shield where I arrived at 5:30 P.M. Had letters from Gwen and home, . . . wrote some letters and a glorious week was ended. I have had a fine time. The country over there [St. Bees] is beautiful and the folks [did] all they could to make me feel at home."
From Gwen's letter, June 20, 1937--
"My Dearest Sweetheart,
With all my heart I can say you're the grandest man in the world, the most thoughtful and the best prospect for an ideal husband. Jim, dear, I mean every word of it. For two weeks I waited anxiously for a letter. Your picture came to thrill me and then as June 19 came closer and closer I hoped so much that I'd hear from you on or before 'our' day because you and only you are the one I want to be near on that day. Well finally on June 19 I got not only one letter but two. Mother and Dad met me up town and I was swept off my feet. Yes, right there on Main Street when she handed me your letters. We went to a show after that and I just couldn't wait to get home and read those two long looked for letters and they were both perfect. I could have bawled I was so thrilled and happy to be engaged to such a considerate, romantic and grand fellow. Sweetheart, I love you so much that sometimes two years seems an eternity and yet almost 1/4 of the time has slipped by. When we got home from town I had to fight with myself to keep from crying all over everything for there were your roses.
Jim, they were beautiful. Our symbol so fresh and unblemished. Darling, I can't tell you in words how wonderful you are but I feel it so deeply that I wouldn't trade being engaged and expecting to be married to you for anything in this wide world and that's right from the heart. Mother also told me she thought you were about the most thoughtful man she'd ever known and Dad was radiant over your letter to him . . .
" . . . Our mission in life is going to be a glorious one, sweetheart just because I'll be with you working and living and just because I love you so much. Here's kisses and a fond embrace from your sincere sweetheart of 1933 and years to come. Gwen."
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Meeting Uncles, Aunts, and Cousins for the First Time
From Jim's Journal, Mon. June 14, 1937. So Shields. Egremont
.
" . . . I took a train to Newcastle. I took a tram out to the Fox and Hounds and then started to hike toward St. Bees and Egremont. I made one ride from the "Bank," to the junction, and from there a ride in a truck to Carlisle. Walked through the city and out on the road again and made three rides to Prospect and then had to resort to a bus to Whitehaven and Egremont. . . I had wired Uncle Harry of my coming and I arrived there at 8:20 PM and was met by him. [travel= approx 115 miles] If my own father had met me they could never have been more alike. It was easy to recognize him, but the others were very difficult. Aunt Eleanor, Margaret, Eva and Millie. Harry and his wife. We had a nice long talk about my folks and St. Bees and what thirty years has done. . .It has been a fine day. A easy trip, and its swell to be with some people you have heard so much about but have never seen before. So as sleep came over me, I felt to thank God for the blessings I am receiving."
Tues. June 15, 1937. Egremont and St. Bees
" . . . I went to St. Bees in the afternoon. I called on Uncle Bill first and the way Edith looked at me one would think she was seeing ghosts. But they made me feel very much at home and each in turn, Aunt Sally, Aunt Annie, Chris and all the girls [were] very sociable. Later in the afternoon I called on Aunt Rebecca and after a fine visit with her I called on Sarah Telford. I met people who had known Dad and Mother and each of them had a good word for them."
Wed. June 16, 1937, Egremont and St. Bees
" . . . I went over to St. Bees and Uncle Bill's. Uncle Bill took me to the Methodist Church that Dad used to attend then left me at Aunt Rebeccas. After tea, Chris, Rowland, and Edith and I went for a walk down on the beach, over Tomlin and to Kesick Bay and St. Bees Lighthouse.
Thurs. June 17, 1937. St Bees and Egremont
". . . I wrote a letter to Gwen and after breakfast we, Edith, Rowland and I, went for a walk around the town. Here I went into the school Dad attended, and into the church he and Mother were married in. Then we went down on the beach and walked back that way, to Sea View, where we had lunch. . . I rushed over to Egremont to dress for the wedding of Bill and Belle. The wedding was solemnized in the Castle Methodist Church. . . I was asked to toast the bride."
Fri. June 18, 1937. St. Bees--Egremont
" . . . I cycled over to St. Bees, to call and say 'Goodbye' to the folk[s]."
Pictures of The St. Bees Lighthouse and Methodist Church
.
" . . . I took a train to Newcastle. I took a tram out to the Fox and Hounds and then started to hike toward St. Bees and Egremont. I made one ride from the "Bank," to the junction, and from there a ride in a truck to Carlisle. Walked through the city and out on the road again and made three rides to Prospect and then had to resort to a bus to Whitehaven and Egremont. . . I had wired Uncle Harry of my coming and I arrived there at 8:20 PM and was met by him. [travel= approx 115 miles] If my own father had met me they could never have been more alike. It was easy to recognize him, but the others were very difficult. Aunt Eleanor, Margaret, Eva and Millie. Harry and his wife. We had a nice long talk about my folks and St. Bees and what thirty years has done. . .It has been a fine day. A easy trip, and its swell to be with some people you have heard so much about but have never seen before. So as sleep came over me, I felt to thank God for the blessings I am receiving."
Tues. June 15, 1937. Egremont and St. Bees
" . . . I went to St. Bees in the afternoon. I called on Uncle Bill first and the way Edith looked at me one would think she was seeing ghosts. But they made me feel very much at home and each in turn, Aunt Sally, Aunt Annie, Chris and all the girls [were] very sociable. Later in the afternoon I called on Aunt Rebecca and after a fine visit with her I called on Sarah Telford. I met people who had known Dad and Mother and each of them had a good word for them."
Wed. June 16, 1937, Egremont and St. Bees
" . . . I went over to St. Bees and Uncle Bill's. Uncle Bill took me to the Methodist Church that Dad used to attend then left me at Aunt Rebeccas. After tea, Chris, Rowland, and Edith and I went for a walk down on the beach, over Tomlin and to Kesick Bay and St. Bees Lighthouse.
Thurs. June 17, 1937. St Bees and Egremont
". . . I wrote a letter to Gwen and after breakfast we, Edith, Rowland and I, went for a walk around the town. Here I went into the school Dad attended, and into the church he and Mother were married in. Then we went down on the beach and walked back that way, to Sea View, where we had lunch. . . I rushed over to Egremont to dress for the wedding of Bill and Belle. The wedding was solemnized in the Castle Methodist Church. . . I was asked to toast the bride."
Fri. June 18, 1937. St. Bees--Egremont
" . . . I cycled over to St. Bees, to call and say 'Goodbye' to the folk[s]."
Pictures of The St. Bees Lighthouse and Methodist Church
Thursday, May 27, 2010
"Our" Squirrels and Dreaming of Dark Hair, Chubby Baby Boys
From Gwen's Letter, May 16, 1937--
"Dearest Sweetheart,
I'm happy again, thank goodness, but it was just in the nick of time after waiting almost two weeks for a letter for the one I care most about. I almost decided to go on a broken arm strike. It really wasn't safe for people around home because of the way I'd go up in smoke when I'd rush home from work only to find no letter. The day it finally came Mom called me at work so I'd cool down and not wreck the house. No fooling. I look forward to those letters . . . [they] are the things which we must hold to if our dream is to become a reality and I have every faith that it will. . .
"Jim, let me look down deep in those blue eyes I'm waiting to see and you look down deep in mine and now I'm going to tell you again what our little squirrel heard one day. Darling, no love is complete in marriage if it is a selfish love and ours is far from being selfish. . . Just think of the fun we'll have when there is a little black headed chubby faced Jimmie and a blonde Gwennie dressed in a little blue silk dress. Oh kid, I can't even write about it without crying. I can just see you standing towering above a little tiny boy who toddles uncertainly over and grabs your legs in his two little arms and looks up trustingly into his daddy's face. . . Erlyn was talking to me the other day and guess what she said. She said, 'If Jim and Gwen ever have kids, won't they be smart.' . . .
"Jim dear, please don't fall for England too hard or you'll never be satisfied with home again. Do you have quiet rendezvous with tall pines and soft moss, and trickling streams and little squirrels chattering above.
We have. Maybe they aren't as romantic as green valleys but they still mean more to me because of the associations. . . . I like that idea of yours about writing down suggestions for things to do to make our marriage perfect. I think about those things all the time and often I see happy married couples who can give you and I tips.
The shutters on Jim and Gwen's home held a reminder of their experience with the squirrels
" . . . Please write and tell me all about your trip to the coronation.
I listened over the radio and, believe it [or] not, I heard you yelling at the top of your voice 'God Save the King' and then I worried for fear that rain would give you pneumonia or sumpin'. How many hot dogs did you tuck away? Did you know there was a big article in the Central Park Herald about you and George in the conference, the work you're conducting and the trip you were to make to the coronation?"
A Special Commemorative Copy of the Millennial Star featured the Coronation
" . . . Well, honey, it's midnight and I must stop now . . . So goodnight sweetheart.
With loads of love and some X's too, Gwen
"P.S. . . . Thanks for for that nice letter to Mom. It was grand."
"Dearest Sweetheart,
I'm happy again, thank goodness, but it was just in the nick of time after waiting almost two weeks for a letter for the one I care most about. I almost decided to go on a broken arm strike. It really wasn't safe for people around home because of the way I'd go up in smoke when I'd rush home from work only to find no letter. The day it finally came Mom called me at work so I'd cool down and not wreck the house. No fooling. I look forward to those letters . . . [they] are the things which we must hold to if our dream is to become a reality and I have every faith that it will. . .
"Jim, let me look down deep in those blue eyes I'm waiting to see and you look down deep in mine and now I'm going to tell you again what our little squirrel heard one day. Darling, no love is complete in marriage if it is a selfish love and ours is far from being selfish. . . Just think of the fun we'll have when there is a little black headed chubby faced Jimmie and a blonde Gwennie dressed in a little blue silk dress. Oh kid, I can't even write about it without crying. I can just see you standing towering above a little tiny boy who toddles uncertainly over and grabs your legs in his two little arms and looks up trustingly into his daddy's face. . . Erlyn was talking to me the other day and guess what she said. She said, 'If Jim and Gwen ever have kids, won't they be smart.' . . .
"Jim dear, please don't fall for England too hard or you'll never be satisfied with home again. Do you have quiet rendezvous with tall pines and soft moss, and trickling streams and little squirrels chattering above.
We have. Maybe they aren't as romantic as green valleys but they still mean more to me because of the associations. . . . I like that idea of yours about writing down suggestions for things to do to make our marriage perfect. I think about those things all the time and often I see happy married couples who can give you and I tips.The shutters on Jim and Gwen's home held a reminder of their experience with the squirrels
" . . . Please write and tell me all about your trip to the coronation.
I listened over the radio and, believe it [or] not, I heard you yelling at the top of your voice 'God Save the King' and then I worried for fear that rain would give you pneumonia or sumpin'. How many hot dogs did you tuck away? Did you know there was a big article in the Central Park Herald about you and George in the conference, the work you're conducting and the trip you were to make to the coronation?"A Special Commemorative Copy of the Millennial Star featured the Coronation
" . . . Well, honey, it's midnight and I must stop now . . . So goodnight sweetheart.
With loads of love and some X's too, Gwen
"P.S. . . . Thanks for for that nice letter to Mom. It was grand."
Friday, May 21, 2010
The Coronation of King George VI
Jim's Journal--Tues, May 11, 1937, London.
A Souvenir Cup from the Royal Coronation China ". . .went on the 'tube' to Hyde Park. It was after midnight when we found a place and there we settled to wait for the procession. . . we lay on newspapers on the sidewalks, sleeping when we could, being crowded in at all sides, but there were thousands of people there for the same thing we were. And without customary sleep we passed into the Coronation Day."
A King Edward VIII's Souvenir Coronation Plate--Edward VIII abdicated the throne thus giving it to King George VI
Wed. May 12, 1937, Hyde Park, London.
"People are gathering around us like flies, to see this great spectacle. They have waited for months, weeks, days and now hours to see this procession. Men, women and children. Their faces tired and dirty from a night out here in fog and smoke. And still they come. We were able to lay down last night, but the crowd is so great there isn't space now. We were very fortunate to have sandwiches with us because on every side of us, women are fainting, turning sick at the stomachs from hunger and thirst. From a building on the other side of the road, a loud speaker tells us that the King and Queen are leaving Buckingham Palace to go to Westminister [sic] Abbey. Cheers can be heard, the day has begun. As each important thing takes place we are told about it from this loud speaker. The procession , the Abbey ceremony, the oath and finally 'He is crowned,' 'Long live the King.' Then the national anthem 'God Save The King.' During this time crowds have increased and we are crowded in like sardines.
" . . .Then from the speaker we were informed that they were leaving the Abbey and would soon be in Hyde Park. Long hours of waiting and then the first troops appeared. Mounted bands, beautiful horses, colorful uniforms, and well rifled troops. Men in red coats, gold braid, black trousers, in the blue, the gray. Men from as far away as the British Empire reaches. From entirely around the globe. Beautiful black horses with leopard skin saddles, and gray horses with black polished leather saddled. Everything in order for this day of days. The sky has been dark all day long and rain has threatened. The 'Royal Canadian Mounted Police' drew the most attention and applause, as did troops from India, So. Africa, New Zealand, Australia, Canada, Egypt. The Turks, Arabians and all the Scottish, Welsh and native land, sea, and air forces. And finally came the Royal coaches.
Queen Mary, the Princesses, Dukes, Duchesses, Lords and Ladys, the Prime Minister, the Kings guards, and the King and Queen. There in his royal coach, dressed in his royal robes, scepter in his hand, his queen by his side, was King George VI and Queen Elizabeth. A great cheer went up. People gone mad from their long wait. And as his coach passed from view rain started to fall, increasingly it came. People hurrying toward subways. Traffic blocked out and there in the marble Arch Square we stood and were rained on plenty.". . . We made a tube connection at Edgewall station and then were very soon in Claphom. There we lay our weary bones down on our ticks to most welcome rest.
"And now as I run all this through my mind I wonder: Was the King any happier because of what he had than I or any of the Elders with what they have[?] Gwen and I--King and Queen in our own castle--our love as our crown. Our home as our kingdom. Our own children as our loyal subjects. Can any man ask for more? And despite all that runs through my mind, I love her still. And so I have seen what millions of people have seen, and what millions more would have liked to see. So to bed."
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Traveling to London for a Mission Conference and Coronation
Jim's Journal, Sat. May 8, 1937, So Shields to Sheffield
"We were up and around early this morning. . .prior to our departure for London. Elder Stephens prayed, and then we departed in pairs. Elders Brown and Blanch. Elders Stephens, Bryson and I. . . We traveled out of Goteshead on the highway. . . We were now on the Great North Road bound for London and the Coronation. We rated another ride a little way, and then one on a truck to Darlington. . . In Darlington a truck took Stephens to Leeds, Bryson left to go to York, and Blanch and Brown paired off, leaving me alone. I walked out to the open road and rated a ride of about 8 miles to Cottruck. Then a walk of two hundred yards and another ride put me to Domcaster. Out of Domcaster I headed for Sheffield and was taken there in a newspaper truck. . . I have made about 150 miles today. Tired.
Sun. May 9, 1937, Sheffield to Leicester.
" . . .I made my way out of Sheffield at nine o'clock, walking out on to the road toward Derby. Getting a ride was terrible this day . . . rated a ride into Derby. I searched out Miss Elizabeth Brown at 62 Malcolm Street and visited with Gwen's Mother's aunt. She accepted me very graciously and gave me a nice lunch. From Derby I walked a greater distance to Nottingham but ended up on the bus. It had started to rain and it was hard traveling. . .I took the bus to Leicester. . . Today I have traveled about 50 miles. It is hard this type of travel, but I feel that it is saving money, and making it easier for the folks at home."
Mon. May 10, 1937. Leicester to London
"I was up, dressed and had eaten my breakfast and on my way at eight thirty A.M. . . .I took a trolley out of the city onto the road that lead to London . . . I walked about one fourth of a mile and then made a ride in a truck to Northampton. When I arrived in Northampton, a shoe manufacturing center, it was noon, so I had some fruit for lunch, walked out to where the roads forked and was offered a ride as far as Croyden if I cared to go. I chose to go to Windsor and after a four hour ride passing through some beautiful country, and some nice little cities we arrived in Windsor. It was here I saw Eton College, Windsor Castle, King Geo. V. memorial, and the Thames River, and [the] dock from which the King takes his rides down the river. I saw Windsor then made my way into London via Slough. A 'cockney' brought me in. . . I was the last of the Newcastle boys to arrive. . . I made about 100 miles journey today, saw some beautiful country and now am glad to lay down to sleep. But oh look what we have to sleep on: a sack filled with straw, covered by an army blanket, and two blankets to cover us with. But I could sleep on the soft side of a rock. And so I did."
"We were up and around early this morning. . .prior to our departure for London. Elder Stephens prayed, and then we departed in pairs. Elders Brown and Blanch. Elders Stephens, Bryson and I. . . We traveled out of Goteshead on the highway. . . We were now on the Great North Road bound for London and the Coronation. We rated another ride a little way, and then one on a truck to Darlington. . . In Darlington a truck took Stephens to Leeds, Bryson left to go to York, and Blanch and Brown paired off, leaving me alone. I walked out to the open road and rated a ride of about 8 miles to Cottruck. Then a walk of two hundred yards and another ride put me to Domcaster. Out of Domcaster I headed for Sheffield and was taken there in a newspaper truck. . . I have made about 150 miles today. Tired.
Sun. May 9, 1937, Sheffield to Leicester.
" . . .I made my way out of Sheffield at nine o'clock, walking out on to the road toward Derby. Getting a ride was terrible this day . . . rated a ride into Derby. I searched out Miss Elizabeth Brown at 62 Malcolm Street and visited with Gwen's Mother's aunt. She accepted me very graciously and gave me a nice lunch. From Derby I walked a greater distance to Nottingham but ended up on the bus. It had started to rain and it was hard traveling. . .I took the bus to Leicester. . . Today I have traveled about 50 miles. It is hard this type of travel, but I feel that it is saving money, and making it easier for the folks at home."
Mon. May 10, 1937. Leicester to London
"I was up, dressed and had eaten my breakfast and on my way at eight thirty A.M. . . .I took a trolley out of the city onto the road that lead to London . . . I walked about one fourth of a mile and then made a ride in a truck to Northampton. When I arrived in Northampton, a shoe manufacturing center, it was noon, so I had some fruit for lunch, walked out to where the roads forked and was offered a ride as far as Croyden if I cared to go. I chose to go to Windsor and after a four hour ride passing through some beautiful country, and some nice little cities we arrived in Windsor. It was here I saw Eton College, Windsor Castle, King Geo. V. memorial, and the Thames River, and [the] dock from which the King takes his rides down the river. I saw Windsor then made my way into London via Slough. A 'cockney' brought me in. . . I was the last of the Newcastle boys to arrive. . . I made about 100 miles journey today, saw some beautiful country and now am glad to lay down to sleep. But oh look what we have to sleep on: a sack filled with straw, covered by an army blanket, and two blankets to cover us with. But I could sleep on the soft side of a rock. And so I did."
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Memories, Apple Blossoms, and Jim's Speaking
Gwen's Letter, May 2:
Dearest Sweetheart,
"It's apple blossom time. Finally the clouds and rain are gone and to-day the sun is shining so brightly and the birds are singing so that it seems just the kind of a day to drive up Parley's and over to our rendezvous. Gee, kid, but I'm lonely for you to-day. . . I'm sending you an apple blossom from the front tree to sort of remind you.
". . .Now I'll proceed to tell you the news . . . 5. I read about your new president being H. B. Brown [Hugh B. Brown]. How do you like that[?]
" . . . hey you said for me to get the Star so I'll renew mine with you because I like to read about what you do and then here's a subscription of 3 months for your mom and send one to Owen's too will you? . . . At least I'm really working with you on your mission. Please let me do more.
"Please write and tell me how you're coming out in your speaking,. . .
"Love me always as I love you, Your sweetheart, Gwen."
Jim's Journal, Sunday, May 2, 1937. Shildon.
". . .I spoke in the Shildon Conjoint meeting on a subject that was handed me five minutes before I was to talk. I spoke for fifteen minutes and felt very satisfied with my self."
Dearest Sweetheart,
"It's apple blossom time. Finally the clouds and rain are gone and to-day the sun is shining so brightly and the birds are singing so that it seems just the kind of a day to drive up Parley's and over to our rendezvous. Gee, kid, but I'm lonely for you to-day. . . I'm sending you an apple blossom from the front tree to sort of remind you.
". . .Now I'll proceed to tell you the news . . . 5. I read about your new president being H. B. Brown [Hugh B. Brown]. How do you like that[?]
" . . . hey you said for me to get the Star so I'll renew mine with you because I like to read about what you do and then here's a subscription of 3 months for your mom and send one to Owen's too will you? . . . At least I'm really working with you on your mission. Please let me do more.
"Please write and tell me how you're coming out in your speaking,. . .
"Love me always as I love you, Your sweetheart, Gwen."
Jim's Journal, Sunday, May 2, 1937. Shildon.
". . .I spoke in the Shildon Conjoint meeting on a subject that was handed me five minutes before I was to talk. I spoke for fifteen minutes and felt very satisfied with my self."
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Turkey Burglar Alarm Systems? . . . and Gwen's Driving
Jim's Journal dated April 26, 1937:
". . . In the afternoon we went to Durham to see the Cathedral. It is a beautiful ancient place, built in 1100, and is now very antique . . . today was Dad's 53rd birthday."
Picture: Charlotte and Robert Telford (Jim's Parents)
From Gwen's Letter dated the same day:
"Dearest Jim,
Remember our burglar alarm system for the turkeys? Well I've just decided that was a pretty smart idea of yours and I've even decided it's better than the professional alarms, but why am I raving on about burglar alarms when there are so many more important things for you and me to talk about, anyway I'm about fed up on burglar alarms that aren't for turkeys because for the last month some men from California have been installing one in the Utah Woolen Mills and I believe they need some one like you to explain how it's done. . . I had to practically tie myself down to keep from explaining to him how the Wagstaff Telford corporation would do it. From this you can see how often I'm thinking of you. No matter what happens in some way or other it seems to remind me of the time when you and I did the same thing or went to the same place. . . Do you like to think about them as much as I do?
". . . Well your dad is fining our place so the trees will not be in danger when I drive. He's cutting down all the big poplars out in front. Your dad sure seems to know how it's done. As for it helping my driving. I'm really proud of my growing ability to miss telephone polls and mailboxes. No fooling, Jim, I'm really getting better. I told Dad my aim is to be as good a driver as you by the time you come home. . .
". . . Should I plan to meet you in New York on your way home? Boy I surely want to go someplace out of Utah besides Wyoming. Should I make it New York? I'd love to but . . . we've still got 2 years (almost) to think about it so why worry.
"Last night your mom was talking to my mom and me about you. . . . If you want to see some real honest to goodness beaming you should see her when she talks about her Jimmie and my Jimmie. . . She said that Harry Grumberg came in for some cleaning the other day and asked if she were Jimmie's mother. Then he told her that if any fellow in the ward ever deserved to go on a mission it was you.
". . .P.S. I see by the papers that Pres. Cannon is being released and that Newcastle won in the football game."
Friday, May 7, 2010
Missionary Work, Laughs, and the Rain in England
Jim's Journal
Fri. April 9, 1937 --So. Shields
"Friday is Millenial Star day. We read the Star and don't go tracting. We went down town and back again to have lunch and study for a talk tonight. Elder Stephens and I went to our bath today and then played ball in the park. After tea we held a street meeting in the Square. They are fine for practice, but we don't seem able to attract a crowd. Some old drunk kept interrupting which only added a little spice to the program. . . this is a fair example of what my days in the mission field are."
Wed. April 14, 1937. So. Shields
"This morning we met as usual and instead of a meeting we had a gathering that wouldn't rate as a good social. Stephens tried to accompany us on a harmonica while we sang 'Oh My Father.' That started us all to laughing, so Derbyshire called the meeting.
. . .In the afternoon Gwen's picture arrived and gee it's a honey. In a nice gold frame and as nice as she is herself. I'm proud of it."
Friday, April 16, 1937. So. Shields--
"Rain--rain--rain and more rain. All it ever does in this confounded country is rain. All day and then all night. We can't do a thing because of rain and I am so tired of doing nothing I could bawl."
Jim darning his socks
April 18, 1937--A letter from Gwen reads:
"Darling,
Just think three more days and it will be exactly three months since I kissed you last and then only 21 months to go but I'll bet you a malt you'll make it 27 months to go if you learn to love England as you seem to have done already, but Jim dear, it's worth it isn't it. I'm so glad for you that you are enjoying such a wonderful experience. I guess I am a little jealous though. I wish I were having the same experiences. . . You flatter me when you say you are doing all this for me. I like it though. You understand how blondes are. I guess next best to filling a mission oneself is to have someone you love fill one for you.
". . . Kid, those were surely grand pictures your folks received. . . And say those things you sent your dad just put him sky high in glory.
" . . . Say Jim, how fat are you now? Have you lost any hair? How many towns have you been kicked out of? Say what do you look like anyhow[?] I've forgotten it's been so long since I had a good look at you
"About the Municipal swimming party it was sort of a bachelor girls affair so don't be worrying about who we were with because Maxine, Elizabeth, Bernice and about 3 other girls and I had a swell time all by our lonesomes. In fact, Jim you don't need to worry about me very much but I don't want you to take me for granted ever.
"Well, Jim dear it's almost the 'wee' hours so I must stop now . . .Be good sweetheart and love me as I love you because I do tell you the truth for I have nothing to conceal and I hope you'll tell me the truth also even if it's not so easy to take.
Love, Gwen"
Fri. April 9, 1937 --So. Shields
"Friday is Millenial Star day. We read the Star and don't go tracting. We went down town and back again to have lunch and study for a talk tonight. Elder Stephens and I went to our bath today and then played ball in the park. After tea we held a street meeting in the Square. They are fine for practice, but we don't seem able to attract a crowd. Some old drunk kept interrupting which only added a little spice to the program. . . this is a fair example of what my days in the mission field are."
Wed. April 14, 1937. So. Shields
"This morning we met as usual and instead of a meeting we had a gathering that wouldn't rate as a good social. Stephens tried to accompany us on a harmonica while we sang 'Oh My Father.' That started us all to laughing, so Derbyshire called the meeting.
. . .In the afternoon Gwen's picture arrived and gee it's a honey. In a nice gold frame and as nice as she is herself. I'm proud of it."
Friday, April 16, 1937. So. Shields--
"Rain--rain--rain and more rain. All it ever does in this confounded country is rain. All day and then all night. We can't do a thing because of rain and I am so tired of doing nothing I could bawl."
Jim darning his socksApril 18, 1937--A letter from Gwen reads:
"Darling,
Just think three more days and it will be exactly three months since I kissed you last and then only 21 months to go but I'll bet you a malt you'll make it 27 months to go if you learn to love England as you seem to have done already, but Jim dear, it's worth it isn't it. I'm so glad for you that you are enjoying such a wonderful experience. I guess I am a little jealous though. I wish I were having the same experiences. . . You flatter me when you say you are doing all this for me. I like it though. You understand how blondes are. I guess next best to filling a mission oneself is to have someone you love fill one for you.
". . . Kid, those were surely grand pictures your folks received. . . And say those things you sent your dad just put him sky high in glory.
" . . . Say Jim, how fat are you now? Have you lost any hair? How many towns have you been kicked out of? Say what do you look like anyhow[?] I've forgotten it's been so long since I had a good look at you
"About the Municipal swimming party it was sort of a bachelor girls affair so don't be worrying about who we were with because Maxine, Elizabeth, Bernice and about 3 other girls and I had a swell time all by our lonesomes. In fact, Jim you don't need to worry about me very much but I don't want you to take me for granted ever.
"Well, Jim dear it's almost the 'wee' hours so I must stop now . . .Be good sweetheart and love me as I love you because I do tell you the truth for I have nothing to conceal and I hope you'll tell me the truth also even if it's not so easy to take.
Love, Gwen"
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Engagement Anniversary
Sat. April 3, 1937--
Jim's Journal reads:
"In the afternoon Elder Bryson and I went to No. Shields to administer to a Mrs. Humell who has been ill for some time. We had our tea at her home. When we are calling on people, administering to them there is a different feeling in our work. . . Gwen and I have been engaged for one year now. Last year on this same date, we went to see "The Trail of the Lonesome Pine" and after we returned home I gave her a ring. We declared our love for each other, our undying affections, and then separated."
Gwen's Letter, also dated Sat. April 3, 1937, reads:
"Darling,
Your letters get better and better all the time. I thought nothing could equal that 16 page one but your last, even though it was short was so sweet and so much like you used to be that it's almost worn out because I've read it over so much. You promised me a real love letter and truly it was about the grandest love letter you've ever written me and the surprise of receiving it in the middle of the week just made it perfect. . . I hope that someday in about two years your dream of the creek and pine trees and us will come true and that you will put your arms around me and say honestly, 'Gwen dear, I love you' . . . I couldn't help but write you to-day because it's such a special day to me. Please don't think I'm foolish, but I just seem to remember a year ago about this same time--well let's see I guess about two hours later than right now and you turned out the lamp and put a beautiful symbol of our love on my finger. You know I don't believe I ever did tell you how much I like 'our' diamond. . .
"Now before the monotony send you entirely to sleep I'll stop and say,
Goodnight Sweetheart
Til we meet to-morrow
With lots of love and a big X O,
Gwen"
Jim's Journal reads:
"In the afternoon Elder Bryson and I went to No. Shields to administer to a Mrs. Humell who has been ill for some time. We had our tea at her home. When we are calling on people, administering to them there is a different feeling in our work. . . Gwen and I have been engaged for one year now. Last year on this same date, we went to see "The Trail of the Lonesome Pine" and after we returned home I gave her a ring. We declared our love for each other, our undying affections, and then separated."
Gwen's Letter, also dated Sat. April 3, 1937, reads:
"Darling,
Your letters get better and better all the time. I thought nothing could equal that 16 page one but your last, even though it was short was so sweet and so much like you used to be that it's almost worn out because I've read it over so much. You promised me a real love letter and truly it was about the grandest love letter you've ever written me and the surprise of receiving it in the middle of the week just made it perfect. . . I hope that someday in about two years your dream of the creek and pine trees and us will come true and that you will put your arms around me and say honestly, 'Gwen dear, I love you' . . . I couldn't help but write you to-day because it's such a special day to me. Please don't think I'm foolish, but I just seem to remember a year ago about this same time--well let's see I guess about two hours later than right now and you turned out the lamp and put a beautiful symbol of our love on my finger. You know I don't believe I ever did tell you how much I like 'our' diamond. . .
"Now before the monotony send you entirely to sleep I'll stop and say,
Goodnight Sweetheart
Til we meet to-morrow
With lots of love and a big X O,
Gwen"
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
England's Chef's and the Food
Jim's Journal Entry, Tues, Mar 9, 1937--
"After a discussion on the Gospel we went out to gather in some food. We are batchelors [sic] now. We laid in what we believe will last for the next week. We cooked our first meal in the lodge for lunch. It was a swell meal, and it was also fun to cook it."
Sat. Mar 20, 1937--
"We had our usual meeting to begin the new day and song practice for the quartette[sic]. Elder Stephens and I, of necessity, fasted this morning, we have no food in. I am feeling fine--gaining weight every week. . . Letters came today from Miller, Gwen, and Dad."
Mar 20, 1937--Gwen's Letter included,
"Right now before we go any farther let's stop and decide a very serious problem. You say that this very important bet between you and Mr. Brown will be lost for you if I stick with you. Is that right? In other words you don't get the candy unless I'll be good enough to stop writing. What kind of candy will it be? Is it really worth all that? If I promise to let you win that box of candy would you send me some. .? I've heard though that English candy isn't so good anyway . . .What is this food which makes people gain nine pounds over night? I have a mental picture of you in two years from now. Look and I'll show you.
"Well I could even forgive that as long as you won't lose your hair. . .
"Well kid I've got to close now so please be happy and love me as I love you.
Your Sincere Sweetheart,
Gwen
" 'Patience is bitter but its fruit sweet' --Rousseau"
"After a discussion on the Gospel we went out to gather in some food. We are batchelors [sic] now. We laid in what we believe will last for the next week. We cooked our first meal in the lodge for lunch. It was a swell meal, and it was also fun to cook it."
Sat. Mar 20, 1937--
"We had our usual meeting to begin the new day and song practice for the quartette[sic]. Elder Stephens and I, of necessity, fasted this morning, we have no food in. I am feeling fine--gaining weight every week. . . Letters came today from Miller, Gwen, and Dad."
Mar 20, 1937--Gwen's Letter included,
"Right now before we go any farther let's stop and decide a very serious problem. You say that this very important bet between you and Mr. Brown will be lost for you if I stick with you. Is that right? In other words you don't get the candy unless I'll be good enough to stop writing. What kind of candy will it be? Is it really worth all that? If I promise to let you win that box of candy would you send me some. .? I've heard though that English candy isn't so good anyway . . .What is this food which makes people gain nine pounds over night? I have a mental picture of you in two years from now. Look and I'll show you.
"Well I could even forgive that as long as you won't lose your hair. . .
"Well kid I've got to close now so please be happy and love me as I love you.
Your Sincere Sweetheart,
Gwen
" 'Patience is bitter but its fruit sweet' --Rousseau"
Friday, April 23, 2010
New PJs and Advice on Girls who Wait . . .
Sun. Feb. 28, 1937--
Jim's Journal reads:
"I had tea at Bro and Sis. Pickersgill, and really enjoyed it. We roasted chestnuts and talked and she gave me some real advice on girls. 'If they do wait you don't want them, if they don't wait you do want them, because its only natural to want what someone else wants and decline what no one else cares for.' That evening I was the only speaker [in Middlesboro] for about twenty minutes."
Jim in his new robe.
Gwen's letter dated Mar 1, 1937 declared--
"I got your letter and picture to-day and decided then to sit right down and answer pronto. By the way--those are right smart pajamas you're sporting. . . You know, more dash. You make me feel like a very conservative person. I guess I must rush right up town and get a pair of fancy ones or you'll leave me behind the style. Anyway I kind of liked to see you perched there with those fancy house slippers . . .only why didn't you beam kid? Come on beam for me please. If you will then I'll feel more like beaming too. OK now we're both laughing be careful or it'll be a giggle. Remember how we threw dish water at each other and how you always got the best of me[?] You wait though. I'm going to train for a couple of years and then you dear old 'villain' I'll show who's got the muscle in our family."
Jim's Journal reads:
"I had tea at Bro and Sis. Pickersgill, and really enjoyed it. We roasted chestnuts and talked and she gave me some real advice on girls. 'If they do wait you don't want them, if they don't wait you do want them, because its only natural to want what someone else wants and decline what no one else cares for.' That evening I was the only speaker [in Middlesboro] for about twenty minutes."
Jim in his new robe.Gwen's letter dated Mar 1, 1937 declared--
"I got your letter and picture to-day and decided then to sit right down and answer pronto. By the way--those are right smart pajamas you're sporting. . . You know, more dash. You make me feel like a very conservative person. I guess I must rush right up town and get a pair of fancy ones or you'll leave me behind the style. Anyway I kind of liked to see you perched there with those fancy house slippers . . .only why didn't you beam kid? Come on beam for me please. If you will then I'll feel more like beaming too. OK now we're both laughing be careful or it'll be a giggle. Remember how we threw dish water at each other and how you always got the best of me[?] You wait though. I'm going to train for a couple of years and then you dear old 'villain' I'll show who's got the muscle in our family."
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Facing Challenges and Discouragement
From a conversation on April 2, 2010--Jim explained:
"When I was set apart as a missionary by Elder Melvin J. Ballard, he asked first for my name. I had such a hard time saying 'William' [because of stuttering] that when he laid his hands on my head, he set me apart as a missionary and then promised me that I would be able to speak and bear my testimony clearly to the saints in England."
From Gwen's letter, March 1, 1937:
". . . Jim, sweetheart, I know you won't say no to an opportunity because you aren't a coward. Don't make it too hard on yourself though at first, dear, because you can't accomplish everything in a day but a little each day.
". . .I have a very strong feeling Jim, that your trouble now is all part of the great plan. Look ahead two years and see yourself standing before these same people. . . I believe these people admire you now for bringing them a message such as you are even in the face of obstacles and I believe firmly they'll believe even stronger when they hear you again later on, when this gradual change has made you able to tell them as freely as you write me. I'm not just saying this Jim. Your going away has made me kneel down many times and pray earnestly for you and us and Jim I truly believe it is giving me a testimony. I believe your Patriarchal blessing and I believe your blessing Apostle Ballard gave you. It will be fulfilled Jim, darling. Work, pray and have patience and know that you're doing right and therefore you are doing more good than you realize."
Later in life, when Gwen was asked to write down a "time when God answered a specific prayer," she wrote:
"When I prayed that Jim would be able to speak without a stammer. Heavenly Father answered, 'Yes'"
(Entry from, Reflections from a Mother's Heart, 1998).
At the end of the conversation on April 2, 2010, Gwen added:
"Do you know what he did to be able to speak without the stammering? He'd go down to the wharf and talk into the wind. That's what healed it. It was a miracle."
"When I was set apart as a missionary by Elder Melvin J. Ballard, he asked first for my name. I had such a hard time saying 'William' [because of stuttering] that when he laid his hands on my head, he set me apart as a missionary and then promised me that I would be able to speak and bear my testimony clearly to the saints in England."
From Gwen's letter, March 1, 1937:
". . . Jim, sweetheart, I know you won't say no to an opportunity because you aren't a coward. Don't make it too hard on yourself though at first, dear, because you can't accomplish everything in a day but a little each day.
". . .I have a very strong feeling Jim, that your trouble now is all part of the great plan. Look ahead two years and see yourself standing before these same people. . . I believe these people admire you now for bringing them a message such as you are even in the face of obstacles and I believe firmly they'll believe even stronger when they hear you again later on, when this gradual change has made you able to tell them as freely as you write me. I'm not just saying this Jim. Your going away has made me kneel down many times and pray earnestly for you and us and Jim I truly believe it is giving me a testimony. I believe your Patriarchal blessing and I believe your blessing Apostle Ballard gave you. It will be fulfilled Jim, darling. Work, pray and have patience and know that you're doing right and therefore you are doing more good than you realize."
Later in life, when Gwen was asked to write down a "time when God answered a specific prayer," she wrote:
"When I prayed that Jim would be able to speak without a stammer. Heavenly Father answered, 'Yes'"
(Entry from, Reflections from a Mother's Heart, 1998).
At the end of the conversation on April 2, 2010, Gwen added:
"Do you know what he did to be able to speak without the stammering? He'd go down to the wharf and talk into the wind. That's what healed it. It was a miracle."
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Missing Letters and Valentine's
"Feb 13&14--Best wishes for a happy birthday, 'My Valentine.' May the coming years be as nice to you as the past. Love and Regards, as ever, Jim "
Feb. 14, 1937--Jim's journal entry concludes stating, "Today was the first Valentines day Gwen has not given me a Valentine since we have been keeping company."
Gwen's Letter, Feb 15, 1937--
"Dear Jim,
"I've decided that you are either down with one of the Jones boys (Davey or Paul) at the bottom of the ocean or else an English mermaid has you all ready. Anyway, if I don't get a letter soon I'll _______ ___________ ________ ___________!! Well you just imagine the rest. I believe though that I was wrong about the Jones guess because we read in the Telegram and the news that the SS Manhattan with Mr. Wm J. Telford aboard landed safely in Plymouth Feb. 2. Your father also read about the SS Manhattan and the SS Rex being called to rescue a ship in distress but after they turned from their course the distressed ship wired she was safe.. . .
"I had a dream about you the other night Jim, but I won't tell it now. Anyway, I'm very anxious to hear from you. My goodness at this rate I'll get a letter once a month. Anyway even though I think you're a piker I'm still thinking of you and hope you're feeling fine. Please take care of yourself and write me if your care to.
"Even with an ocean between, Jim I still love you as ever. Sincerely, Gwen"
Feb 19, 1937, Jim's journal entry ends with, "I am plenty sore at Gwen, if it does any good, but have hopes for better days."
Gwen's Letter, Feb 21, 1937--
"Darling,
"To-day is almost past and with it has gone one month of our separation already and I want to tell you from down deep in my heart Jim, that I'm proud of you, proud to be wearing the ring of a clean worthy missionary and Jim dear one month away from you has made me love you more even than I did before. I am counting the months until we'll be to-gether again and I think about you always and pray for your way over there. . . Jim dearest, if I could just be with you now for a few minutes and could talk confidentially and hold you close it would be wonderful. I know you're having a tough time now for a while Jim. They all do but keep that chin out and show what I know you're really made of and no one or nothing can lick you especially with "Him" on your side.
" . . .Jim, I was disappointed in my last letter because I hadn't heard from you and I hope my last letter wasn't a wet blanket because of my disappointment. . . .Tuesday I received your letters just before mutual and boy was I thrilled. Your mom and dad got theirs that same day and they were just as thrilled.
". . .How are your 6 roommates. Please tell me all about your districts . . .Tell me more about England and the people and what you do, feel and think.
"Goodnight, Sweetheart, and keep your chin up. I'm with you every minute too, with loads of love and sincere devotion, Gwen"
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
The Work, Assignments, and Homesickness
February 3, 1937. London England.
". . .We went to the mission office and were interviewed by Pres. Cannon, asked where we would like to labor and what we could do. . . We were put in a lodge close to the mission office, where they have no fires, no running water or any modern conveniences. Everything is old.
Feb 4 - ". . .At noon we were interviewed by Pres. Cannon again and given our assignments. . . .Brown and I to Newcastle. We were then taken around London seeing St. Paul's, Big Ben, Parliament, Westminister Abbey, Picaddilly, Trafalgar, Fleet Street, Bank of England and many other landmarks of England history.
Fri. Feb 5- "We had a testimony meeting. . .We then went to make our trunks ready to send to Newcastle. . . At three we were on our way to Kings Cross station and at four we were aboard a fast train headed for Newcastle. . .Over and through rolling and beautiful country on a real fast train we went. . .We arrived in Newcastle at 10:20 pm. . . England never, give me the good old U.S.A. for real comfort and security."
Jim with some of the other missionaries in England
Sat. Feb 6, 1937. Newcastle.
"Today I had my first tracting experience from door to door in the mission field. Elders Brown, Bryson, Robinson and myself sold Millenial Stars. I was lucky and sold two Stars on the first day. After that we went to the rooms. I was and am very lonely for home and friends. Home never meant so much to me as it does now. In the afternoon I wrote letters to Gwen and Dot [Dorothy Bishop] . . . Was glad when it was bed time."
". . .We went to the mission office and were interviewed by Pres. Cannon, asked where we would like to labor and what we could do. . . We were put in a lodge close to the mission office, where they have no fires, no running water or any modern conveniences. Everything is old.
Feb 4 - ". . .At noon we were interviewed by Pres. Cannon again and given our assignments. . . .Brown and I to Newcastle. We were then taken around London seeing St. Paul's, Big Ben, Parliament, Westminister Abbey, Picaddilly, Trafalgar, Fleet Street, Bank of England and many other landmarks of England history.
Fri. Feb 5- "We had a testimony meeting. . .We then went to make our trunks ready to send to Newcastle. . . At three we were on our way to Kings Cross station and at four we were aboard a fast train headed for Newcastle. . .Over and through rolling and beautiful country on a real fast train we went. . .We arrived in Newcastle at 10:20 pm. . . England never, give me the good old U.S.A. for real comfort and security."
Jim with some of the other missionaries in England
Sat. Feb 6, 1937. Newcastle.
"Today I had my first tracting experience from door to door in the mission field. Elders Brown, Bryson, Robinson and myself sold Millenial Stars. I was lucky and sold two Stars on the first day. After that we went to the rooms. I was and am very lonely for home and friends. Home never meant so much to me as it does now. In the afternoon I wrote letters to Gwen and Dot [Dorothy Bishop] . . . Was glad when it was bed time."
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Gwen's First Letter
January 31, [1937]
"Dearest Jim,
"It's Sunday about 2 o'clock and almost time for the home cooked dinner and . . . I must have a bit of a word with a blarney old Englishman. How does it feel anyway Jim? I hope you aren't wearing spats, and a monikle (?) and saying "Cheerio old dear" to all the sweet little lassies. Anyway you're kind of a dear old Englishman and I want to tell you how thrilled I was to get that beautiful pillow top and card from Niagara. . .
"I really am not bored at your telling me all about your trip because I'm following right along even though my mode of travel isn't quite so thrilling but I had fun drawing from city to city,. . .
"Say you should see your family when they get a letter or a card. Their faces light up like sunbeams. When I showed them your first card, boy were they tickled. Jim you'd be proud if you could be there and hear how proud they all are of you. You mustn't say anything back to them about this and promise you won't go high hat and big head on us, but I know you're deeper than that so here goes. Your dad said, 'I'm not saying this because Jimmie's my son but I'd be willing to bet any amount that he'll be a wonderful missionary. He has the real spirit and I know he'll make a wonderful preacher.' Your mother chimed in with 'Yes Jim surely had a life to be as proud of as any other missionary.'
". . .I'm glad you're feeling so good. I knew you'd never be sorry you left and you are having such a wonderful experience. You say this has opened your eyes to what others are doing. It's done the same thing for me Jim. I've just been living within myself for so long. We really weren't thinking of others much were we?
". . .I know these kisses and hugs aren't nearly as nice as real ones. I'm sending them to you. If you don't want them send them into the ocean.
"Please write and tell me all about it Jim, dear and remember I love you as ever and I like your letters very much.
Goodnight Sweetheart.
Love, Gwen"
"Dearest Jim,
"It's Sunday about 2 o'clock and almost time for the home cooked dinner and . . . I must have a bit of a word with a blarney old Englishman. How does it feel anyway Jim? I hope you aren't wearing spats, and a monikle (?) and saying "Cheerio old dear" to all the sweet little lassies. Anyway you're kind of a dear old Englishman and I want to tell you how thrilled I was to get that beautiful pillow top and card from Niagara. . .
"I really am not bored at your telling me all about your trip because I'm following right along even though my mode of travel isn't quite so thrilling but I had fun drawing from city to city,. . .
"Say you should see your family when they get a letter or a card. Their faces light up like sunbeams. When I showed them your first card, boy were they tickled. Jim you'd be proud if you could be there and hear how proud they all are of you. You mustn't say anything back to them about this and promise you won't go high hat and big head on us, but I know you're deeper than that so here goes. Your dad said, 'I'm not saying this because Jimmie's my son but I'd be willing to bet any amount that he'll be a wonderful missionary. He has the real spirit and I know he'll make a wonderful preacher.' Your mother chimed in with 'Yes Jim surely had a life to be as proud of as any other missionary.'
". . .I'm glad you're feeling so good. I knew you'd never be sorry you left and you are having such a wonderful experience. You say this has opened your eyes to what others are doing. It's done the same thing for me Jim. I've just been living within myself for so long. We really weren't thinking of others much were we?
". . .I know these kisses and hugs aren't nearly as nice as real ones. I'm sending them to you. If you don't want them send them into the ocean.
"Please write and tell me all about it Jim, dear and remember I love you as ever and I like your letters very much.
Goodnight Sweetheart.
Love, Gwen"
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Train and Ship Travel to London
Jan 22, 1937--"Train terribly slow. . . .We are now in Nebraska.
Jan 23--Somewhere in Iowa. Arrived in Chicago at one o'clock.
Jan 24--Had breakfast in Cleveland, Ohio. Traveled in a rainstorm all day. Went to see Niagara Falls. They were a big disppointment.
Jan 25--Arrived in New York, Hotel McAlpin at 9:08 am. . . . We went to a show and sightseeing. This is some town. Religion is something these people seem never to have heard of.
Jan 26--Received letter from Gwen and I was sincerely glad to receive it. . .tour of New York.
Jan 27--Left for pier at 10 o'clock. Was disappointed when I saw the SS Manhattan. Realized later her size and beauty. Out of sight of land in one hour after sailing.
Jan 29--950 miles out of New York, 2000 to go and Oh! boy, I wouldn't trade places with anybody right now. We are having a swell trip. . . .Have played deck games and chess . . .Wrote a letter to Gwen and saw 'Bulldog Drummond Escapes' as our movie. Rolling sea but not sea sick."
Feb 1--Today has been another fine day on the ocean, smoother sailing than we have had for 3 days. . . .Have been bull fisting for 3 hours with the fellows. Fun.
Feb 2 [after 7 days at sea]--A dense fog and a steady rain enveloped us and the ship today. We touched at Coba, Ireland at nine o'clock this morning. A beautiful bay. Then we proceeded on down the coast. A rough sea. Arrived at Plymouth, Eng. at nine o'clock in the evening. Passed customs at the docks and boarded a train for London where we arrived at 4 am Feb. 3. . . . Found London to be very ancient and outmoded by our homes in the states, but very interesting."
[Total Travel time from Salt Lake to London=13 days]
Elder Telford with London Police
Jan 23--Somewhere in Iowa. Arrived in Chicago at one o'clock.
Jan 24--Had breakfast in Cleveland, Ohio. Traveled in a rainstorm all day. Went to see Niagara Falls. They were a big disppointment.
Jan 25--Arrived in New York, Hotel McAlpin at 9:08 am. . . . We went to a show and sightseeing. This is some town. Religion is something these people seem never to have heard of.
Jan 26--Received letter from Gwen and I was sincerely glad to receive it. . .tour of New York.
Jan 27--Left for pier at 10 o'clock. Was disappointed when I saw the SS Manhattan. Realized later her size and beauty. Out of sight of land in one hour after sailing.
Jan 29--950 miles out of New York, 2000 to go and Oh! boy, I wouldn't trade places with anybody right now. We are having a swell trip. . . .Have played deck games and chess . . .Wrote a letter to Gwen and saw 'Bulldog Drummond Escapes' as our movie. Rolling sea but not sea sick."
Feb 1--Today has been another fine day on the ocean, smoother sailing than we have had for 3 days. . . .Have been bull fisting for 3 hours with the fellows. Fun.
Feb 2 [after 7 days at sea]--A dense fog and a steady rain enveloped us and the ship today. We touched at Coba, Ireland at nine o'clock this morning. A beautiful bay. Then we proceeded on down the coast. A rough sea. Arrived at Plymouth, Eng. at nine o'clock in the evening. Passed customs at the docks and boarded a train for London where we arrived at 4 am Feb. 3. . . . Found London to be very ancient and outmoded by our homes in the states, but very interesting."
[Total Travel time from Salt Lake to London=13 days]
Elder Telford with London Police
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Jim Set Apart as a Missionary
Jan 20, 1937--
"Melvin J. Ballard set me apart as a missionary of the L.D.S. Church. After lunch . . .I went home and packed my things. Gwen and I spent the evening together and each offered a prayer for our preservation against changing from our ideals and goals. She is a wonderful character and a sweet adorable girl. . ."
Jan 21, 1937--
"Spent day arranging my trunk and checking it. Leave Salt Lake for London at 6:40 pm. Everyone has been treating me swell. I am darn glad I am going. Everyone but Gwen is bothered, which is upsetting me an awful lot. She is so insistent that I go. . ."
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Jim's Mission Call to the British Mission
In his history Jim wrote,
"I have found satisfaction and expression as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, also known as the Mormon Church. I was born into a Methodist family, who later converted to the LDS faith. I attended the Methodist Church, the Episcopal Church and remember my experiences in either one.
" . . . In late 1936, I was 'called' to a mission to serve in the British Mission. Joseph Cannon was the president then and he was succeeded by Hugh B. Brown. I arrived in Britain in January of 1937 and was assigned to the Newcastle district."
Gwen's feelings about this mission are shared by Jim in his diary. On Jan 5, 1937, he wrote, "[Gwen] insists that I go so she appears to either want a returned missionary or a college graduate, so she will have her way. I am going and am glad."
Monday, March 8, 2010
Jim and Gwen Decide to Go Steady
"Church youth canyon cookouts were important to me because that was where we were when Jim and I decided to go steady. I was 16 and he gave me his silk handkerchief as our pledge. . . .I guess I was 19 when I decided I wanted to marry him" (Reflections from a Mother's Heart, journal entries from Gwen Telford, 1998).
Jim and Gwen at a picnic and on a canyon walk
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Jim & Gwen and High School Dances
"[Jim] was tall, dark and handsome and we enjoyed each other very much"
Notice the note on the photo: "The spider on his knees. Sincerely yours from your pal 'Tarantula Jim'"
Gwen dressed up--about age 16
"I wanted Jim to ask me to the sophomore dance in high school. I heard that Robert Rice was going to ask me, so I told Miles, Jim's pal, who told Jim and he finally did ask me first. It was great. I had an evening dress with white fluffy, lacy puffed short sleeves and [a] slinky pink cupe dress to the floor.
"We decorated the gym by stringing crepe paper across from the rails of the upper track" (from "Reflections from a Mother's Heart").
Gwen's Favorite Subjects--Artwork and Jim
"All through school art was my favorite. Even in college, oil painting from Prof. B.F. Larsen was best at BYU."
"I . . .loved painting birds on glass and putting it over wrinkled aluminum foil. . . Bessie Taylor, a neighbor girl, taught me to tint black and white photo portraits. For glossy it was a water tint; for dull finish it was oil."
Photos of Jim and Gwen that were tinted by Gwen
"As a child I loved to color sample pattern books with crayons. That's what started me on oil and water color portraits of grandkids [later in life]."
"I . . .loved painting birds on glass and putting it over wrinkled aluminum foil. . . Bessie Taylor, a neighbor girl, taught me to tint black and white photo portraits. For glossy it was a water tint; for dull finish it was oil."
Photos of Jim and Gwen that were tinted by Gwen
"As a child I loved to color sample pattern books with crayons. That's what started me on oil and water color portraits of grandkids [later in life]."
Monday, February 22, 2010
Jim- "Big Ute" Telford?
An "exceptional camping experience" Gwen recorded explains:
"We went to the UBIC in Vernal . . . We borrowed Laxman's tent. It got a hole burned in it from the car's exhaust pipe.
"Jim, my boyfriend, went along. As we drove up Parley's Canyon the car sputtered. Jim helped discover the mechanic had put a cotter pin in backwards. He saved our trip.
"At Vernal we wrapped him in an Indian Blanket, put a feather in his hair and took his picture on Atwood's horse. They were tending Dad's 40 acres of land and the calves Dad sent out there."
"We went to the UBIC in Vernal . . . We borrowed Laxman's tent. It got a hole burned in it from the car's exhaust pipe.
"Jim, my boyfriend, went along. As we drove up Parley's Canyon the car sputtered. Jim helped discover the mechanic had put a cotter pin in backwards. He saved our trip.
"At Vernal we wrapped him in an Indian Blanket, put a feather in his hair and took his picture on Atwood's horse. They were tending Dad's 40 acres of land and the calves Dad sent out there."
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Sports, Entertainment, and Fun . . . in the 1930s
Gwen as a teenager with friends
Gwen recorded that, as a child, she ". . . remember[s] sleigh riding on the hill east of our place. It was great fun." In the summer, "we played around the street light. [The] games [included]: Kick the Can, No Bears are out Tonight, Hide and Seek, and Run Sheepy Run. There was no TV or radio to spoil our fun" (italics added).
In his history, Jim reflects,
"In my growing years, I played baseball, ice hockey, golf, rode horseback, went fishing in many streams, and enjoyed skiing. Never totally proficient in any one activity, but acceptably able to perform well enough to be sought out by many friends.
". . .I associated myself to a group of husky boys, who enjoyed skiing. We would go to Ecker Hill, the Utah Ski Club. There we could slide the hill, ski jump, [and] go cross country."
Gwen's memory of skiing, however, includes this entry:
"Jim took me up Parley's Canyon one winter to learn to ski. I had on overalls, galoshes, and [a] stocking cap. We side stepped up the hill. I started down but fell immediately. I'll never forget how my face stung as it slid, nose first, down that hill. I gave up skiing quickly" ("Reflections from a Mother's Heart," entries by Gwen Telford).
Monday, February 15, 2010
Who's Jimmie?
In Jim's life history, he writes:
"In 1933 I started to keep a steady relationship with an upstanding girl. Her name was Mary Gwendolyn Wagstaff. She was the catalyst in my life that propelled me to be what I am."
Tucked in the middle of Gwen's 1933 Yearbook (her Junior Year) was this note:
(Dear Gwen,
May all your efforts be wound with success, and our friendship continue through the years is my sincere wish to you. Jimmie Telford "1933")
When asked, "How old were you when you met Dad and what attracted you to him?"
Gwen responded:
"I was sixteen when I noticed Dad [Jim] at a girl friend's party. He was her date, but while she fixed refreshments I entertained him by telling his fortune. Later his mother made him take me home from his brother, Stan's, party. That helped us get better acquainted and we started dating. We went to the ward and school dances and to shows" (From "Reflections from a Mother's Heart," journal entries by Gwen Telford).
"In 1933 I started to keep a steady relationship with an upstanding girl. Her name was Mary Gwendolyn Wagstaff. She was the catalyst in my life that propelled me to be what I am."
Tucked in the middle of Gwen's 1933 Yearbook (her Junior Year) was this note:
(Dear Gwen,
May all your efforts be wound with success, and our friendship continue through the years is my sincere wish to you. Jimmie Telford "1933")
When asked, "How old were you when you met Dad and what attracted you to him?"
Gwen responded:
"I was sixteen when I noticed Dad [Jim] at a girl friend's party. He was her date, but while she fixed refreshments I entertained him by telling his fortune. Later his mother made him take me home from his brother, Stan's, party. That helped us get better acquainted and we started dating. We went to the ward and school dances and to shows" (From "Reflections from a Mother's Heart," journal entries by Gwen Telford).
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Working, Surviving, and The Great Depression . . .
Jim as a young man
In his life history, Jim recollects,
"My working life has been fruitful. I have never drawn an un-employmnet check. At the same time my earnings have been respectful. I came through the 'great depression' years when pay was as low as $42.00 per month; 35 cents per hour. I worked at this financial level because it was the best available, as three (3) out of five (5) workers were out of work, on relief, or dependent on some sort of program. Since I had to work, earning the means to sustain myself and eventually a family, I have taken many mundane, dead end jobs. Being a newspaper carrier is the usual starting job for young 'men.' I delivered for the Salt Lake Telegram, Deseret News, and the Sunday edition of the Salt Lake Tribune. The difficult aspect of this endeavor was to collect the monies. No one had any money, but everyone wanted to read, "all about it." I did have an area to deliver in, and did so on horseback. While riding my horse one evening, she stumbled, broke her ankle, and had to be destroyed. I was devastated.
"I caddied at Nibley Park. I had a 'steady,' who golfed every Saturday afternoon, and Sunday mornings. He paid me $1.00 per 18 holes, and loaned me his clubs so I could play on Mondays which were caddy days. From this I gained an appreciation for golf, which I played well into my adult life.
"Being of good stature, physically, and being fifteen years of age, I was hired as an elevator operator in the Beason Building, 25 East 2nd South Street, Salt Lake City. This proved to be akin to the Bible story of Daniel in the lion's den. I went from a sheltered life to the jungle. The real facts of life came out of the wood work, to let me into the sordid side of life. I tried to go to school and hold onto this job which eventually proved too much. On top of the hood of need, I soon became the only one in the family with a job. My salary in these depression years was soon reduced to $42.00 per month. That went to keep our family afloat. Mother took the money, put it to the benefit of all, and we made out and kept this job until December of 1936, and even though I was scarred, I was unscathed by the environment. Of course, I became acquainted with many fine people and even dated some of the girls who worked in the offices, so all was not lost."
Jim having fun at the beach
Sunday, February 7, 2010
William James Telford's Beginnings
Baby picture of Jim Telford
"It is a popular pursuit to write your own story. No one person knows better than you of the conditions, events, etc. that has made you what you are.
"Since I am the author and lead character, this account will be written in the first expression of 'I.' I seek your indulgence.
"It is January, 2004, and I am in my 90th plus year of life. Life has been good to me. I have had trials of physical well being, social and financial struggles and still survived.
"I am the third child of Robert and Charlotte Lucinda Rock Telford. Five children were born to this English-Irish couple.
Robert and Charlotte Telford with a nephew
"My only sister, Violet--the second child, died at birth. So four (4) sons made up our family. I did not know the value of the female mind in my life. We were a poor, but industrious family, but we did not know how poor we were because we didn't know any other comfort."
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Growing Up . . .
Pict 3-Gwen in her ninth grade graduation dress
When asked, "What extracurricular activities were you involved in during high school?" Gwen responded:
"I was on the debate team. Our subject was: 'Resolve that unemployment insurance will cure the vicissitudes of the depression.' I got a letter for that and one for being associate editor of the yearbook and school paper. That meant [I] won a gold gradonian necklace which is given for most activities."
When asked, "Who was your favorite teacher?" She wrote, "Miss Ballard was my art teacher in high school and she was assigned to help me write my valedictorian speech when I graduated. We became close" (emphasis added).
(From "Reflections from a Mother's Heart: Your Life Story in Your Own Words," a journal that was a 1998 Mother's Day gift from Charlene--the eldest daughter)
Pict 4- Gwen's senior yearbook picture with praise for her achievements
(click to read)
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Beginnings--Mary Gwendolyn Wagstaff
"Tooele, Utah was my birthplace on February 13, 1916. When I was four years old we moved to Murray, Utah where I later attended Arlington School. When I was seven we moved to Wandamere Ward and lived at 430 Welby Ave [in] Salt Lake. Then I attended Columbus and Roosevelt Elementary Schools. Granite Jr. was my next school followed by Granite High. I was thrilled to receive the coveted Gradonian Medal for outstanding activities and scholarship upon graduation. Later I attended B.Y.U."
(From the "Life Sketch of Mary Gwendolyn Wagstaff Telford")
Pict 1-Gwen abt age 2
Pict 2-Gwen abt age 12-13
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