Suzanne's Bottle Collection

Mike and I pulled out Suzanne's bottle collection during our last visit to Blanding. I was quite surprised at the number of bottles that a four year old had collected.

Total number of bottles: 179

Two boxes full of bottles

Box #1

Box #2 - Look at the variety of bottles!

This bottle cracked me up! It is a ladies flask. Where on earth did Suzanne find this???

It is a glass bottle with a leather covering.

The top line reads, "Ladies Drink"

(I can't remember the bottom line, "______ drink".)

This pictures gives you a sample of the height of these bottle.

The smallest was about one inc, the tallest about nine inches.

Merry Christmas!

*** MERRY CHRISTMAS ***

Grayson Garage Christmas Card

Christmas Eve - 1973

Back: Granny (Margie), Marilyn, Caroline, Doug

Front: Dutch, Francis, Joe

(I hope I named everyone correctly!)

Letter from Marvin to Margie - March 1950

Note: This letter was written from Marvin to Margie, while Margie was back in Maryland at grandson, Kirk Le Christensen's birth.

San Juan Record Link:
http://udn.lib.utah.edu/cdm4/document.php?CISOROOT=/sjr&CISOPTR=93227&CISOSHOW=93291&REC=4

Granny holding her second grandchild, Kirk Le Christensen

Blanding, Utah
Mar. 27, 1950

Dear Marg:

Just want to let you know we are all doing fine except the weather is miserable, the wind blows constantly up on day and back the next. I see by the paper you have been having considerable weather back there. There isn’t much news at least I don’t get to[o] much.

Last week the kids went to Cortez for a band meet. Several bands were the[re] but it was not a contest. However our band showed up exceptionally well. Now Frances tells me they have received an invitation to a band meet in Durango the 15th of April. I wish they could enter into some kind of a contest while Mr. Taylor is here.

I gave Joe $2.00 to put in his pocket book for his birthday which made him quite happy. He is still looking for your present. Yesterday was union meeting in Monticello. The Ward reunion last Friday and I was there, a nice entertainment.

Well I hope the weather will moderate a little before you have to come home so you will get a little more pleasure out of your visit. This is about all for this time.

Love to you and all the rest.

M.F.L.

Granny's 1973 Trip to Old Mexico, Part 3

Margie (Granny), Francis, Mrs. Pancho Villa, Caroline

June 28th

It is Caroline’s wedding day and as we leave on our tour, just the three of us with Fredie Gonzalez, he tells us it is All Saint’s Day. I am very excited to know that if you have just one day here that a guided tour is the only way.

P.M. We are back and packed and checked out ready to leave Juarez, El Paso and home. But what a day!!! Oh My! Fredie, a man probably 45 or 50 really gave us the red carpet treatment. Chihuahua is a beautiful City. The big mansions with the gardens, you just can’t think of anything so grand elegant. Certainly they make homes we have seem like Mrs. Hoagland’s proverbial sheep sheds. Of course we saw only the outside, how I should have liked to go through some of them. But the tile and the hand caring, marble, grill work in iron… just you got[t]a see to realize it. Then in a few short minutes we were taken to the bleak extreme—such abject poverty and filth. You look at the contrast and how can you keep from saying to ourself “We are all God’s children, so why?” No wonder people rise up and revolt. It really makes one think. Our guide told us that Chihuahua was built as it were by two means—the silver and the water. Of course without the water nothing could have been built not matter how much silver. So as always, the water means much to me. For instance in our tour there was a great aqueduct 222 years old still in service. Chihuahua’s Cathedral cannot be described by such as I. It took 100 years to build. The intricate perfect carving done with Indian slave labor had to be perfect and if a mistake was made it cost a man a finger, a hand, or his life. It is now in use but as I mentioned, it was all Saint’s Day and the crowd was small. We were taken in to view as the mass, or whatever, was going on. Didn’t seem right to me, but the Priest went right on with this thing, and the plate was being passed. Fredie told us “It was the Catholics who conquered Mexico with fear.” But now even thought 95% would say they are Catholic, you see from this crowed that it means little to most of them. Time was when on such an occasion this entire area would be jammed with people, but now just a handful. We went to the State Capitol where Chihuahua’s history is shown in beautiful murals. We went in the governor’s reception room where hangs a life size portrait of Benito Juarez and one of Father Hidalgo. Hanging form the ceiling is the most exquisite crystal rock chandelier.

Perhaps the high light to me was that which pertained to [Pancho] Villa and I wished I had known more, but I live with most things like water funning off a ducks back. But we aw the tome he had built for himself—beautiful but empty. His body is buried far way with no one knowing where his head is so the building stands in State. I wonder if Luz Corella Villa does, who still lives in the mansion and sits in a room full of his books and things of interest, tells his story, just parts of it of course, but she is a large pleasant gracious person. I suppose until recently she conducted the entire tour. She has set a price of 40 cents for each one who comes to see her. The money she uses for the poor, such as a big building in connection with the part of which she lives, just separated by a courtyard or garden live many of the poor class. Then there is an orphanage built and supported by her. Said Fredis, “I don’t know what a lot of them will do when she dies, if she ever does.” She doesn’t say how old she is but he says at least 91. She smiles and says “I live with my memories”. The old Dodge care in which Villa was riding when he was shot sits enshrined, full of bullet holes. There is a great case of his guns, knives, etc. Oh, I don’t know how much is true and how much is tradition and stories for the tourists, but it was an interesting and I’m like Janie, I am glad I went. I wanted to so bad. Yet I had fear and dread of it as you know, until we were in the car and on our way. I can’t seem to write more. Maybe I can say more once we get talking. I will say the story has it that Villa had 53 wives but Luz is the only one who had papers to prove it. You know, I wish we knew the really true story.

We left the great city of Chihuahua about 1:30 and headed for Ciudad Juarez. We stayed at a beautiful Roadway Inn. It was hot but our room was cool and comfortable. After resting awhile we walked around and looked in a few little shops but decided that we could probably find more things the next morning nearer the boarder. We would be rested and fresh and we knew there would be more things displayed for a tourist trap. I did buy a bag for Helen’s birthday and a cap for Taylor’s.

Since it was our last day in Mexico we figured we should have some Mexican food. On most of our trip we had eaten from our good food box which we carried along. Francis inquired as to a good Mexican restaurant but the place was some distance from our motel so we decided to eat in the café there. We were surprised when we went in to find that it was sort of a night club deal—dim lights, live music which was good, some folk were dancing. On the menu was delicious Mexican food. We were told that there would be a good show later, and that we didn’t have to buy drinks. How about that? Such a good chance to let our hair down. We didn’t like the show but we had paid for it and we weren’t about to waste our chicken dinners, so we endured the ‘screeching’ girl singer. The back ground orchestra music I think would have been good if she had shut up. It was about the time we left very mild, but you know I am certainly like what Lark said about his grandma, even more so. It was the nearest thing to night life I had ever been in.

The next morning we left at a “pretty good time”. We reached the said shops and were in and out of a jillion of them, looked and bargained. I didn’t buy a thing but a mantilla for myself. Selfish I guess, but it all seemed too futile. Frances and Caroline bought “duff” for each of their children, but I couldn’t start with the grands.

We had to go through customs and show and tell, opened our bags, etc. But it was painless and quick and easy, and we crossed the bridge into the good old United States and the very air seemed better and the ground sacred. I know it has much to be desired but still the best the Lord has to offer. A land choice above all other lands. We thought we might stop some place and come home Sunday but our dear little bishop needed to be home for his Fast Day duties so we just kept coming and got here at 1:30am.

I must finish in words of Kirk once when I went to New Jersey—“I wish grandpa could come.” Maybe grandpa wouldn’t have loved this as much as I did but, Oh Luellie, I wish you could come.

Note: According to Yahoo Maps, the round trip was 1319 miles.

Contest...

Many of you may be aware that Granny and Grandpa Lyman's daughter Suzanne had a bottle collection.



Mike and I are in Blanding for a couple of days and I just counted the number of bottle and I couldn't BELIEVE how many there were.



So, take a guess during this week and the one who comes closest will win a prize. I'll give you a hint... There were two boxes full of bottles. Box sizes: approximately 9 x 9 x 9.



I'll post the winner next Sunday along with pictures of Suzanne's collection.



Let the competion begin!!! (respond via the comments section with a number!)

Granny's 1973 Trip to Old Mexico, Part 2

June 27th

Another wonderful soul satisfying day which has been long and I am weary. The cemetery is there which you would never know with all the trees and the nice fence, but otherwise neglected and in bad repair. Many graves are not marked and oh so many of the old ones broken and pushed over. We got pictures of the Hurst monument with us by it, and it is big—the largest one in the cemetery. George has, to his own satisfaction, spotted Grandpa Terrys, Aunt Laurie’s and Naties, though he says Grandpa did not (I mean Dad) agree with him, but we had our pictures taken by the three and claimed them.

Buzzard Flat is just beautiful. It should not be called so now since it is planted with soya beans and corn as far as the eye can see, with beautiful wells of water pumping onto the ground… a far cry from the dried up well and the dead cows. There are great orchards--peaches, pears, apricots, green and glorious. We meat the son of Sister Longhurst who has been a Bishop for a long time, not now, who told us that the Old Hurst farm, meaning our Buzzard Flat Farm was being part of the Church Welfare farm. What about that? We went to Romney’s farm. There again, all vegetation, under cultivation and fenced in. Old houses are all gone, one or two Mexican houses are left but we couldn’t get down to the ponds nor the river. Bowmans store, as well as their big home is gone. Haymore’s store is there but not being used, sort of boarded up. We even went down the track to the old Farnsworth place where the Johnson boy was sick and we felt called upon to visit his funny little grandma way up stairs, but that house too is no more.

We went back to our little house again for our last stop and had pictures in front of the fire place. We went to Colonia Juarez and were shown through the academy which was nice. I had never been there. When we got back we went to the Uncle Charl’s place where we were living at the time of our departure from these parts. It hadn’t changed so much only it is a flat top and white. The pump is gone but the well is still there. Chandler’s big house is gone with a Mexican adobe affair in its stead. Yes it is more a Mexican town even with many of the big houses still standing. Now at this time I am going to bed at out Pinon Motel in Casas Grandes, which joins Dublan, no break between. We plan to go to Chihuahua City in the morning so you will be hearing from me again tomorrow night. All of this has made me feel very close to you.


June 27th (Yes, there are two dated the 27th)

We are at an old but very beautiful Hotel in Chihuahua. It has a Motel added too, but we are in the Hotel which I like better. The wide stair cases made of tile and fancy iron railings. The gardens and everything make me feel like I am in a make believe world. Our trip down was uneventful, went through much country which was bare and dry as we remember Buzzard Flat. However, before we actually left Casas Grandes and Old Casas, we took a tour of the Cases Grande ruins. We were on our own, but we wished afterwards that we had hired a guide. It was so big and different to mesa Verde, but truly Jacob was right, “At one time this country was covered with a vast amount of a great population.” We went by Galeana, a rather large Mexican village, where, as you know, there is a colonia of the Polligimists but they seem to be apart quite a way to the west and we didn’t feel free to drive over to look. I wanted to though. One thing which I had never heard of was the big colony of Mennonites. I had always thought of them as in and around Pennsylvania, but there they are in their saved and sanctified conditions. Of course we talked to no women but the men all talk Spanish. We did find one man at their big store and warehouse who spoke enough English to get by. We bought some of their cheese for which they are noted and soma cold drinks. We were surprised to see some of them smoking cigarettes. Of course, we had no way of knowing if every one we saw were Mennonites. We saw women in long dark dresses, long sleeves, high necks and wide brim hats, passed several in a horse drawn buggy like they were going to “town for fun”. Some had sort of colored shawls about their shoulders. We passed one or two sedate couples, each in a buggy, some with one horse, some with a team, but all in the same somber attire and wide hats—both men and women. I noticed that they do use some machinery such as trucks and tractors. As we drove away in our car, Caroline in a pants dress looking like a 16 year old, I in a pants suit, no hats, etc., etc. Two big boys, I should say at least 17 or 18 stood in the back door where they had been unloading a truck of flour and grain, we all thought they looked a bit wistful, but who knows—maybe it was a look of pity on the sinful folk who had come their way that day.

After we checked in, we had dinner at a very lovely café in the Hotel. Everyone was gracious and helpful, there was always someone who spoke enough English so there was no problem. After dinner we took a little walk, but there was a different feeling. There were little cards and stands all along the sidewalks—food being served without benefit of sanitation…seemed like mostly kids and teenagers out for a good time. A big picture show house with coming out and going in, but you knew they were watching us and were certainly strangers in a strange land and we were glad to get back in our room. Francis has bought tickets for a three hour tour in the morning. We found out that train trip over the mountain would take two full days and Francis just can’t be gone that long. Caroline says we will do it next time, but somehow I feel that I shall never pass this way again. Good night now.

Granny's 1973 Trip to Old Mexico, Part 1

While on her journey to Old Mexico and her home in Dublan, Granny wrote a letter each day to her sister Luelle. I've attempted to type them just as she wrote them.


June 25, 1973

We left Blanding at 10:00am. Just Caroline, Francis and I. We had everything in order. The car was serviced, new tires, extra fan belts, etc. I was really tense or tied up inside or whatever, but about as soon as we got down the road a few miles I relaxed and the day has been just wonderful. We drove straight to Shiprock, but I saw no old landmarks there. Of course, the road is hard surfaced all the way. No relation to the goat trail of 62 years ago. In such a few short hours we had passed Gallup, (no white dress). Then on to Luna, and Alma –saw the river with the trees, and rocks where George sent word by the town children that we were a circus. Guess we looked like it. There is no town there, just a few houses—no store, no post office. The cemetery Hill is still there, and the vivid picture of the little group walking up as the woman wailed, and the horse coming down for water we supposed when the poor woman fainted. Then we came over a beautiful stretch of road marked “Saliz Pass”, that gave me a thrill. Of course, the old hill we knew was east of it and Uncle George was told it was so me miles east of the Pass, and would either have to use a jeep or maybe walk it. Caroline is all for doing it one day and I would love it. Now at 11:00pm we are in a beautiful Holliday Inn in Silver City. I have wanted to come here since that long ago night when dad turned us around to go back and retrace about six miles to the watering place for our camp. As I remember it, though, George was not sure, was when Mary was “starving to death and we never would camp.” But when I think of the days and weeks it had taken us to get this far, and I realize that if all goes well, this time tomorrow night we will be in Dublan or maybe in a motel in Nueva Casas Grande, I have to pinch myself and say again, ‘lack a mercy on me this can’t be I.” How I wish you were with me. I wish I could just get off any place without all this fear and apprehension, but guess I can’t. Hope this brings you in tune with me thus far and more tomorrow night. Luv Ya. I should say that George and Lone, Rosemond, DalMar and Fred are here too. They left a while before we did but stopped for George to point out a few things. Mainly where he freighted to the Gray Hills or blue, which ever, while we were at Shiprock. Mercy, what a man. As you know he was just fifteen. I am so grateful to be along with him and I think Francis could listen to him indefinitely. Bye now.


June 26, 1973

Oh my! Such a little way and short time to get to Deming for breakfast, and before you had time to think we were in Columbus where the troups were stationed and our dear American flag waving us into the United States. Not the same wire fence, but another more sturdy and imposing one. A Pancho Villa Museum and State Park which were most interesting. Of course, all the old remains of the big Camp Furlong camp where Black Jack Pershing made his stand in 1916—not much at all there, only the old railroad station with they are trying to restore now. George didn’t seem to remember the little white church near our camp, but I am sure I didn’t make it up. Anyway, it is gone so no way to prove it one way or the other. Fun, should you want to call it that, started when we went through the gate into Palomas to get our birth certificates checked. We had, thank goodness, bought our car insurance in Deming. All went well until the found that DalMar’s children, 10 and 14, could not come in without certificates. They hadn’t known children would have to have them. It got pretty tense for a while with Rosemond really getting on the soapbox and expounding, and seemed to me that she was right but she made the officer mad and it looked for a while like they would not get them through and then, pity heavens, George offered him some money then the sparks did begin to fly. I went across the street and got a man who spoke English very well, don’t know if he helped, but they did finally get them through and then we were ready to be on our way only to find that the keys were locked in Uncle George’s car. Oh mercy! Well we or I should say they found some wire and the calmest person you can imagine, Francis, in the boiling hot sun, finally got it open. By that time we had an audience of little Mexican urchins selling a “chicli” gum for 10 cents and holding out their dirty little hands for nickels or dimes. We were glad enough to oblige and be on our way. A beautiful road and with two more stops by officials in about two hours we drove into Dublan. Oh memories, memories! At first I thought I would never find a familiar thing, but it was early so we got a motel at Nuevo Casas Grande and set out. It had been 15 years since George was here and many changes had taken place since then but not so many as 1911. There is no way to describe my feelings. We kinda started together, then took off in different directions. Do you know that in half an hours time we drove up to our little old house at the same time. We had been told that the Pratt house was gone, but it wasn’t and it was the landmark we both saw. Not changed at all, only it is painted which and a picket fence around the corner. Well I never expect to have a feeling quite like that when the little Mexican lady let us in. Caroline and Francis cried along with their mama. George did too, thought it was not his first time to be there and count the holes where we hung our stockings. Nothing is the same outside. The old shop is gone, the barn and the windmill—no pond with hollyhock dolls, but I walked around and felt like I was on holy ground. Of course, the little lean-to kitchen is gone, but the hole is still up on the end where the swallows came to build their nests. From there we found many familiar places, many new ones, and many old ones we were not sure of. George knew more than did I. Grandma Hurst’s house is gone, one room of Aunt Beckies is still there. Grandma Terry would be unrecognizable but for the Johanson house and Uncle Jim Youngs home. That is about all we got done today. More tomorrow.

'Damn Hurst'

Last evening I was thinking that I hadn't even thought about what to post on today's blog. This morning, Mike shared with me a funny story that will serve as today's entry.



This morning we were talking about a few things and all of a sudden Mike stopped and said, "I don't want this conversation to become a 'Damn Hurst'. As I had no idea what he was talking about, I asked, "What is a Damn Hurst?" Mike responded, "When Granny and her siblings would all get together and talk about all of their woes. They used to call it a Damn Hurst."

Well, I cracked up laughing. Mike has told me on more than one occasion that the Hurst's were talkers, but I had no idea that they had coined terminology to describe some of their talking sessions!


(Does anyone have the photo of Granny with her siblings. I think it was taken at her parents anniversary celebration. Caroline had it, but I couldn't find it when I was in Blanding last time. I'd love to post that photo with this post!)

Lyman Garage

One of the funniest stories that Mike (eldest grandchild of Marvin and Margie) has told me is when the Lyman Garage burned. As a child, he came to Blanding in 1953 with his family. He remembers going to the Lyman Garage the pop machine at the garage. When the garage burned down a couple of years later, Mike's concern was only for one item. He desperately asked his mother, "Is the pop machine all right?"

Grayson Garage when Marvin Lyman purchased it.

After the fire in 1955

???Missing Photo???

Does anyone in the family have a photo of the temporary garage that Uncle Phil designed and built? Mike has always wanted to have a picture of it. If you have a picture, please email it to me and I'll update this post. Thanks!

The rebuilt Lyman Garage

A few links from the San Juan Record mentioning the Lyman Garage...

This is a GREAT article from the San Juan Record about the history of the Lyman Garage! Printed December 22, 1949
http://udn.lib.utah.edu/cdm4/document.php?CISOROOT=/sjr&CISOPTR=92488&CISOSHOW=92651

San Juan School District Annual Report

http://udn.lib.utah.edu/cdm4/document.php?CISOROOT=/sjr&CISOPTR=26970&CISOSHOW=27074

Ad for Lyman Garage in Blanding Paper (most of the hits were from ads that ran in the San Juan Record)

http://udn.lib.utah.edu/cdm4/document.php?CISOROOT=/sjr&CISOPTR=36316&CISOSHOW=36378

Yellowstone Trip & USU

Uncle Joe, aka Joe Finn, dad, grandpa, etc., emailed me pictures recently. Uncle Joe writes, "The trip to Yellowstone was a one day affair from Logan, when I was up there going to school. Mom and dad used to come up to visit on a regular basis. Dad made great sacrifice to send me to school in 1967. I was there for two years. Dad kept the car wash and the ice business going while I was gone. Boy oh boy, when the subject of goodly parents comes up it hits hard to home in my memories."

Grandpa, Granny, Marilyn and children.

(Someone please identify the children!)

I guess this means Uncle Joe was taking the photo.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Grandpa and Granny at their son Joe's graduation from USU in 1969.

To: My oldest grand-daughter

This letter and hankie resides in the possession of Marjorie Christensen Jones, oldest grand-daughter of Margie Hurst Lyman and Marvin F. Lyman.

Hankie tatted by Margie Hurst Lyman.

(Hankie is folded in half as it was too large to scan the entire picture.)

Close-up of the needlework

Two page note written in 1942.

Transcription of note...

June 28, 1942

My dear grand-daughter, as I sit here writing this wee note I feel that I know you.

Hope you like the little hankie with the patriotic tatting. You know we are, at the present time engaged in the 2nd World War. It is smart to use red white and blue.

I was a young girl during World War No.1 and now I have a son almost old enough to serve his country.

My sincere prayer is that when you read this, the world will be at peace.

Lots of love from your grand-mother

Margie Hurst Lyman

Letters from Marvin to Margie - May 1955

Note: I decided to post all of the letters Marvin wrote to Margie while she was back visiting Caroline and her family at Marjorie's birth in May of 1955. I had posted the some of the letters, and randomly at that. This post covers all of them. It's long, but interesting!

Granny, Marjorie (7 days), Caroline

Blanding, Utah
May 1, 1955

Dear Margie:

This is Sunday night, about the first time I have had to do any writing since I received your letter. Was glad you had such a nice trip. I suppose you are now a confirmed air traveler. Was glad you found things B.Y. in N.J. (New Jersey). What a day we have had here today. The wind has blown all day just as bad or worse than any day we had this spring. You could hardly see across the street for the dust. I feel like I’d crawl into a hole some place and never come out.

I ordained Joe an Elder in Priesthood meeting this morning. I believe he was quite thrilled. Phil is still coughing and has been awful miserable. I believe he is a little better the last two days. I’ve never seen anything hang on as tenaciously as this flue.

Phil and me have been working in the statements some this after noon. I guess it is a good thing you are not here you sue would be mad. It seems like we have got more _____ accts than ever. Business has been pretty good most of the time. Cash sales have been better than before the fire.

We are getting long fine, so far. We eat breakfast and dinner at Lymans, sometimes a malt and hamburger for supper.

Well it’s Monday morning and snowing to beat the bared. Has turned quite cold. I don’t’ know what we have done to deserve such weather. I guess it’s the judgments of the last days.

I don’t know when the blessed event was supposed to happen, but seems like we should be hearing something right away. Haven’t heard from Frances since you left. So didn’t know what’s going on down there.

Well I guess I’ve told about everything I can think of for this week.

Give my love to Caroline, Doug, and the little fellows and write when you get time.

Much love, Dad

Blanding, Utah
May 7, 1955

Dear Margie,

This is Sunday night again. Will try and get up to date on the goings on around here. Last night two of Phil’s pals from Taliesin drove in and stayed with us over night. One of them was the boy from India, the other one I didn’t know. Yesterday we started the rain maker and it is still running. Today is Conference in Monticello. I went over along this morning. Joe had to stay and watch the rain maker and Phil had to take care of his company. I came home at noon to let Joe and Phil go over for the Afternoon session. Phil came home after the afternoon session but Joe had to sing in a quartet at the night meeting. He hasn’t got home yet. Adam S. Bennion was in attendance. He is a wonderful man. I really enjoyed his talks Saturday night and today.

Cordell Bowen died suddenly of a h[e]art attack last Thursday. I went down to his funeral which was conducted by the Masons. Bro. McKonkie and the Baptist Minister were the speakers. It was quite a nice affair. I think it was a blessing as the dr. just told him he would soon be totally blind.

I was glad to hear of the save arrival of the little one (Marjorie Christensen). The message was repeated to me long distance about all I could hear was that Caroline and baby were fine.

We may go to Salt Lake this week to talk to some builders about the Motel. I walked to Sonderegen today. He said he might get on to it in 30 or60 days. But Phil thinks we better no wait. I think we will go over and talk to him again tomorrow night.

We have had some real nice weather the last few days. Had some pretty good showers yesterday and today.

I finally got the plumbers to install the fixtures in the rest rooms. As soon as we get the doors in and painted they will be ready for use. Seems like we are doing a little more business all the time. Sold 900 gal[lons] Saturday, quite a lot of cash sales.

I haven’t heard from Francis since you left. It must be getting about time for something to happen down there.

I can’t think of any more to say so will close for now.

We love you and all the rest of the family and will be looking forward to your home coming. Hope you are all O.K.

Dad

Blanding, Utah
May 15, 1955

Dear Margie:

Sunday night again so will try and bring you up date on the news which is rather scarce this week. I hate to keep complaining about the weather but we have had three days of wind and dust till we can hardly keep on top. I went to Mex[ican] Hat yesterday to dig up a tank and when I got home I washed a half a cup full of sand out of my eyes and nose and hair. Phil thinks we should move if we can find a place that doesn’t blow but I don’t know where that would be.

We didn’t go to Salt Lake, went over and talked to Sandergar (sp?) and he thot he could do this building for us. Phil is working on the details of the place so that he can give us our internals, we might be able to start within about eight rooms.

Sandergar said Frank Hall’s motel cost $56,000.00 and when it was about ready for use the inspector condemned the plumbing and they have to take it all out and do it over. I think Sandergar was quite impressed with Phil’s plan.

Well I suppose Caroline is home now and I think it is wonderful that she gets along so well. It just doesn’t seem possible that they [have] such a big family, and such a fine one. I am very proud of them.

We are getting along very nicely. Ethel and Lynn are taking good care of us. I am only eating 2 meals a day and sometimes one. I feel fine no heartburn or upset stomach from eating too much and too often. The boys fix up a little on the side here at home quite often. Marilyn is buying things in good condition.

We finally heard from France and Dutch and according to their calculation we should just about have another grandchild by now. According to their figures they should be homeward bound in about three weeks which will be about the same time as your home run. You will all be very welcome.

Next Sunday I must go to Moab for High Council Visit and the next Sunday to Lockerby. It will be a terrible rely. When it is ___ it is wonderful to be on the High Council if I didn’t feel so incompetent and I feel less competent as time goes on.

Well I don’t seem to think of any more to say so might as well close.

Much love to you and the family. Dad

Blanding
May 25, 1955

Dear Marg:

Two days late. Will try and dash off a few lines to let you know we are o.k. I went to Moab Sunday might was late getting home. Seems like Sunday is about the only time I have to write. Received a telegram from Francis yesterday announcing the arrival of a boy. This was quite a relief as I was beginning to get a little worries about them being a week past due. Will be going to Locherby next Sunday. That will be another worry of my mind, so I can start on some thing else.

Phil wants to go to Salt Lake tomorrow to see some special shows, etc, this weekend and suddenly Joe has got a lot of things there he wants to see about, so it looks like I will have to let them go.

If you wait till the 5th of June to see the baby blessed it will be a couple of weeks yet before you leave for home. That will be entirely up to you, but remember we are anxiously waiting. Will try and hold out till you decide to come. Will have to close now to get this in the mail.

Much Love to you and the rest.


M.F.L.

Blanding, Utah
May 29, 1955

Dear Margie,

This is Sunday night 10:30, just got home from the garage. I just thot [thought] I would go over there for a few minutes after church and I got caught in the rush of Memorial Day traffic coming back from Monument Valley. I was the only place in town open and they really swamped me but it was good business all cash and no cut rate price.

I made a bad mistake in my letter last week. I was 2 days late getting it written and in my rush to get it posted I forgot to air mail it so you might get this one first.

I went to Lockerby today go my visit over, so maybe I can relax for a few days. Phil and Joe got back from Salt Lake this morning about 7:00 o’clock. Phil said his trip was successful.

I bought a transport load of gad from that Western States Co. who have the refinery at Farmington, N.M. They made me a special price of 21 ½ center delivered in Blanding. Looks like I would almost have to live up with them as they beat WR Halls price by about 2 cents a gallon. On one transport load of 7200 gallon that would represent a saving of $146.50.

I received your letter announcing your schedulal for the return trip. Unless you notify me otherwise I will meet you in Cortez June 7 about noon. Would probably be better if you could call from Farmington. I could be ready to go on a moments notice. Imagine Francis will be leaving Texas about as soon as he is discharged. Seems like 3 weeks should be long enough for Dutch to recover.

May 30. The wind is blowing again today. We have had two or three good days since you left. Joe just left for Less Ferry to bring some of Frank Wright’s customers back to Blanding.

Well I must close and get this in the mail. Will see you in a week.

Much love,


Dad

GENERATIONS

This would have been a great four generations photo if Marilyn and I had the presence of minde to be in the picture. On the right are Marilyn's parents and her Grandmother. Of course you all recognize M & M and Granny Hurst. Who are the three kids?

Joe F. Lyman

Marvin's Letters to Margie - 1953

Note: These letters were written by Marvin to Margie while Margie was back in New Jersey for the birth of grandson Scot Lyman Christensen.

Scot Lyman Christensen

Blanding
Dec. 4, 1953
10:00pm

Dear Ma,

I’m dreaming of a white Christmas, but it’s no dream. It started snowing this morning at daylight and has never let up. There is a foot of snow now and may be six inches more by morning. I am facing it with courage and determination. Am I glad you are in New Jersey instead of waiting here to take the plane tomorrow night. I received your telegram and needless to say I am happy about the whole affair, even to getting another grand son.

I love alone to night as Jody has gone to Grand Junction to play basketball tonight and tomorrow night. I just listened to the first BYU game tonight with Idaho State. BYU won by a good margin. Grayson M-Men beat Fort Lewis College night before last in a fast game. They are also playing in Grand Junction tonight.

I received a letter from Francis. He arrived at Chaffer ___. He met a Sergeant on the bus at Oklahoma City. He told him all about where to go and how to get there. Francis said he got off to good start, was on 1 P.P. and guard duty for 24 hours as soon as he arrived. He had an appointment for an audition with the band and thot he might be kept there as their band was not up to full strength. He seed to have a desire to remain there, also he said not to write him until he sent a permanent address.

I received a letter from Phil today, written at Annapolis Nov 30 which was two days before you arrived at Woodbury, he was leaving b bus for Washington where he would take a train that night for Phoenix by way of new Orleans, of course he didn’t know you were coming so soon or he probably would have waited to see you. He seemed to be arranging his own schedule but couldn’t take to much time. He should arrive in Phoenix today. He thot you should visit Norma if you possible could as she was expecting you. I don’t know if he will come up for Christmas but he thot he might come sometime in January, after you get home. It look[s] like we have got the travelingest family I have ever saw.(seen)

We are having breakfast at 7:30 and dinner at 12:30 and just peace [piece] around for supper or go without. Am sure we will get along fine.

Well there is not much news since you left so I better close this and get to bed.

Give my love to Caroline and Doug Mike and Kirk and the rest of the family. I suppose Caroline will be home from the Hospital by now so you can start your writing.

Well, be happy and have a good time and we will try and do likewise.

Love, Dad


Blanding Utah
December 17, 1953

Dear Marg:

I just received a letter from Francis today and one yesterday. He received my letter after he wrote the first one, hence the 2nd letter. I am passing them on to you so you can see what the situation is.

I do not know if Phil has any intention of coming home. Haven’t heard from him since I wrote him.

I suppose you will be heading home as soon after Xmas as you can make connections. Don’t think it makes much difference whether you come to G.J (Grand Junction) or Cortez. You can decide that after you find out what connections you can make.

I received your welcome letter. Hope you have a good visit in New York.

We are getting along fine. Sandra keeps the house clean up and we are getting along fine with meals a day at Lynn’s. We kept two basketball boys here the other night. Also kept Term Habe the other night. He came in with a load of gas and stayed over night. Everything in town was full. The Town is certainly full of people. Another oil rig moved in and there is talk of some more coming in. I don’t know where every body will stay. The Town is full of trailer houses now.

We got the razor for Francis and Burt got the kodac for Joe, he couldn’t get the kind Joe ordered but a better one. We are planning a little surprise for Joe. I think Joe is doing pretty good in basketball. They played Moab in Moab night before last, got beat. They played Green River in Moab last night in Moab. I don’t know how they made out. Hoe isn’t up yet.

Well it seven o’clock and I will have to get up and get to the garage. We have all the business we can handle. Have kept Howard all day part of the time.

They took Phil to Salt Lake the other day to be treated for ulcers of the stomach. Haven’t heard from him since he went up there.

Will ___ now.
We love you and will be glad to have you home.

Dad

I just got the mail and your letter of the 16th. Phil is back from Salt Lake. Ulcers are better but he’s having some bladder trouble.

Write soon. M.F.L

Link to San Juan Record artictle regarding Francis signing to the Concert Band

http://udn.lib.utah.edu/cdm4/document.php?CISOROOT=/sjr&CISOSHOW=104296&CISOPTR=104249

Basic Training Surprise! http://udn.lib.utah.edu/cdm4/document.php?CISOROOT=/sjr&CISOPTR=103960&CISOSHOW=104020 (Link also mentions that Granny had a quilt day at her home. Good news for myself as I'm a quilter!)

This is the letter from Francis that Grandpa sent to Granny with this letter which was dated December 17, 1953.


Camp Polk, Louisiana
Friday Night

Dear Dad and Joe,

Here I am at another separation center at Camp Polk. I have been stationed at the 63rd Army band here though, and will move over there Monday. I sure will be glad to get settled down.

The weather here is pretty nice now. At least it’s good and warm. I suspect it will get plenty warm here in the summer. I can think of places I’d rather be, but I should have a good deal here. The band has no KP or guard and that always looks good to me.

There is a branch of the church at Alexandria, about 60 miles away and if I can find a ride out, I should be able to do quite a little work there. I can’t make it their Sunday though because I’ve got KP. All we do while we are waiting for orders is pull KP and guard and other details. It isn’t bad though.

This is a pretty nice post and an awful big one. The main PX here is almost like Macy’s in New York. They have an electric train setup there with one of those big multi-transform that can run 3 or 4 trains at the same time, and I’ve been up and played with it a couple of times. It sure is confusing trying to run three trains at once. I think there are 4 theatres on the post and 2 or 3 service clubs and a post office, etc., etc. There are no big towns close around so the boys stay pretty much at camp. The camp is located 6 miles south of a little town called Seesville which is 60 miles west of Alexandria, if you want to locate me on the map.

I guess mom has gone to New Jersey by now hasn’t she. Would you send me Carolyn’s address so I can write to them. My address is:

Pvt Francis M. Lyman
US 56 214 214
63rd Army Band
Camp Polk, Louisiana

It looks like I might be coming home again for Christmas. The band is getting a blanket 15 day leave and I would be left down here alone. I think I can catch a ___ to Hill Field on an army flight and come free. Nothing is definite yet, though, so I’ll let you know.

Well it’s time for lights out so I’d best quit for now.

Love, Frances



Blanding Utah
Dec 26, 1950

Dear Margie

I just received your letter. It made me very sad to hear about the little fellers trouble. It don’t seem right for such a little one to have to have such an operation. We hope and pray that everything turns out for the best. Am glad you were there and you must keep me posted of his condition. I don’t know what you have heard from the boys. Anyway Francis didn’t come for Christmas. Will leave there about the 1st of January. Will have 15 days. Have we sent his elokes (__lean) him. Phil thinks he can come up for a few days while Francis is here but I daren’t make any definite plans until we are more sure what they can do.

We are doing O.K. here. I went to Salt Lake 2 days this week. Got back Christmas Eve. Joe and I were invited down to Br. Roots for Christmas Dinner. Sure had a delicious dinner and a nice visit till about 6:00 in the evening. Joe got up early and went to Tohatikee, N.M. this morning with Ellis Palmer. I don’t know exactly what for. I suppose he will be back tonight.

I’ll have to stop to get this in the mail. Hope the little feller will be O.K. and you won’t have to stay too much longer. Love, M.F.L.

Philip Lyman

High School photo of Phil

Francis, Caroline, and Phil

Phil & Caroline

June 1931

Note: These entries about Uncle Phil were compiled from Margie Hurst Lyman's journal by granddaughter Lynette Lyman Bayles.

When Caroline was 22 months old I was blessed with a dear baby boy also born in the Moab Hospital on 17th March 1926. We named our boy Philip H. for my brother. Phil was small and didn’t gain weight as he should and would have had a hard pull but for the kind help of Dolly Bayles who nursed him for several months.

When Phil was 18 months old he became very seriously ill with intestinal flue and it seemed that he could not live. I will always appreciate the kindness of Joe Redd in driving his car up to our door and telling us to take it and get our baby at once to Moab and dear Dr. I.W. Allen. When we left home Phil was so distended and in so much pain that he could not stand to be moved. Patriarch’s Wayne H. Redd and Benjiman Black administered to him just before we left and he lay quiet all the way to Moab except on a few occasions when the car would jolt him too much and then he would cry out with pain. The little chap pulled through under the expert care of Dr. Allen and our faith and prayers but he was never a robust child.

On the 7th of June 1931 prior to my trip to SLC The four of us made a little trip to the natural bridges which stands out in my life as one of the “High Lights.” Caroline was 7 and Phil was just 5 but they made the entire hike from the Edwin to the Augusta up to the ruins down white canyon to the Carolina and back to the Edwin. It was better then a 13 mile hike but they stood it fine. Mr. L.H. Shore of the Beneficial Life Insurance Co. sent them each a pair of hiking boots in recognition of what they had accomplished. They still have the boots among their treasures.

I took Phil and Caroline and went to Grand Junction on the truck with Ray Lyman, Marvin’s brother. We did have the best time. We bought some chairs a little bench and table also a high chair. About this time we moved back up to Dora’s house by the Garage where we stayed until Feb. 1936 when we moved into Oscar Johnson’s house up by the High school.

We were living there when my dear boy Phil was taken ill with pneumonia. We rushed him to the hospital. He was kept in an oxygen tent for several days and had food and water in the veins or he could never have lived.

I brought Phil home from the hospital on the 18th of March the day after he turned 10 years old. A very thin weak child but lucky to be alive.

March 17, 1939 To-day is Phil’s birthday he didn’t have a party but we had a nice birthday dinner for him. Lyn Thompson made him a beautiful cake decorated with shamrocks. To-night he is at a class dancing party. Caroline, Arthur Rogers and Joe Sherman are playing for the said dance. Phil had to make punch.

Nov. 12. Phil gave a very interesting little talk on the part of Youth in genealogical work. I was very proud to have a son who could do as well.


July 6, 1942

Arthur Rogers is trying to encourage Phil to play the piano for the orchestra. I hope he will do it. They have been practicing here to-night. Arthur claims that Phil is good.

Marvin and Phil went to West Water yesterday to stake off a mill site for the Blanding mines. We all went along. While they worked we gathered pine gum for Caroline.

Arthur Rogers and Phil went to Monticello with me and practiced with Wyman Redd. Wyman is Jay and Marie Redds boy and plays a trumpet. Art played the saxophone and Phil the piano. Arthur is trying to start a young orchestra and wants Wyman to play with them.

Phil went down to play a couple of numbers with the orchestra, hope he doesn’t get cold feet and back out. Right now I can hear them playing “don’t sit under the apple tree” that is one of the songs he is supposed to play.

I must not forget to mention that Phil played for the entire dance Friday night Aug. 21st.

Dec. 13 Phil was sustained as Pres. Of the teachers quorum.

Jan. 3 1943 Just came home from a Christmas Cantata given by the San Juan High School chorus class. It was “Chimes of the Holy Night.” My son Phil played the entire piano accompaniment. I was very proud of him. He did a fine as did the chorus.

Jan. 10 My Philip was ordained a Priest in the Aaronic Priesthood this morning. I am happy to say he is just as good and clean as when he was ordained a deacon. I hope he will always be worthy of advancement in the Priesthood and I think that he will.

Jan. 17 Philip administered the Sacrament at Sunday School and in meeting. I had a big lump in my throat when I looked at him and heard his manly voice. My mind went back when he was a wee chap. He was so little and under nourished. Many a time I have put him in the bath tub and cried over his little thin body. I thot most every day of his life that he would never grow to maturity. Things are so funny, I always thot Suzanne so husky and well and she was taken so quick. We surely can’t tell just how the Lord will do things. Perhaps it is best we can’t. Marvin told Phil quite a little story tonight that I feel like writing here. I quote.

(Story Marvin told about priesthood worthiness)
“I learned the blessings on the bread and water when first I was ordained a priest and never forgot them. When I was in Camp Lewis during World War one some of us fellows decided one Sunday to find the Mormon church if we could. We walked for a long long way and finally came to a small church. There was a real small congregation. We had never been there before and had never seen anyone there. The presiding Elder was quite an old man. Just as we came in and sat down in the rear of the building he walked down the isle and asked me to come up and administer the sacrament, didn’t even ask me if I was a Mormon. I was certainly thankful that I could do it. They didn’t have a book, card or anything.”

I feel sure that Phil will learn them now.

Jan 24 I was very thrilled this morning because Phil accompanied the San Juan High School glee club. They furnished the music for the 1st meeting of Stake conference.

With the world in such a mess with this terrible war, no telling what she will be doing next winter. God grant that peace may soon come to the earth.

Friday 28 Went to the Presidents Birthday Ball. Had a nice crowd. John McDonald who had things in charge said they cleared “171.00 for the crippled children in America. The school orchestra furnished the music and it was real good. Phil played the piano and it was his first experience playing for an entire dance.

Phil has gone to the fireside chat at the home of Dr. Wesley Bayles.

Phil graduated from High School and has been working for my brothers, George and Phil at their saw mill.

Phil, Caroline and I have been making a fence back at the north end of the house. It looks real nice.

July 29, 1943 Put up the first lunch I ever put up for a working man. Phil had to take his lunch to the mill today.

Sept. 12 Sunday night – Just arrived from Salt Lake where we have been to put Caroline and Phil in the University of Utah. It seems very lonely

1944

March A week ago tonight Marvin and I came from Salt Lake where we had been to attend Caroline’s capping at the L.D.S. Hospital. She got her cap Thursday night march 16th. It was very thrilling. Exercises were held at the Ensign Ward. Marvin gave Caroline and Wanda each a lovely corsage. After the service we all went to the Coon Chicken Inn and had dinner. Beth, Sil and Betty were with us. Oh yes and of course Phil. Friday was Phil’s birthday he turned 18. Saturday we went with him to the Utah Oil building where he registered for selective service.

Marvin was not home when Joe Fin broke his arms. He had gone to Thompson to get a load of salt for the Blanding mines. Phil went with him. He is learning to drive the truck this is his third day driving. He came home from the University last Saturday June 3rd. He will stay home I suppose unitl he enters the army probably in July some time.

Marvin and Phil have gone up to Venices and Barts to Barts birthday party.

Phil talked in church tonight. Then he went to the Fireside chat at Garda Adams and played quite a number of piano selections.


1945 Phil is working as stock tracer at Hill Field. He was accepted for limited service only and so far hasn’t been called. The war continues to be more terrible we have had several causalities and have several prisoners of war. We spent Christmas in Salt Lake and really had a marvelous time. Phil nor Caroline could come home so we took Joe and Francis and loads of candy, nuts, doughnuts, gifts etc, etc. Even a dear little Cedar tree and took up our abode at New America Motor Lodge where we had a real little home for a week. Caroline has been home once since then. I am certainly doing my share of work these days.


Saturday, March 17th was my dear Phils birthday. 19 yrs. old.

Links from the San Juan Record about Uncle Phil during his youth...

Phil in a school Operetta:
http://udn.lib.utah.edu/cdm4/document.php?CISOROOT=/sjr&CISOPTR=35629&CISOSHOW=35729

Phil bicycled to Bluff:
http://udn.lib.utah.edu/cdm4/document.php?CISOROOT=/sjr&CISOSHOW=49271&CISOPTR=49193

Sunday Meeting:
http://udn.lib.utah.edu/cdm4/document.php?CISOROOT=/sjr&CISOPTR=67472&CISOSHOW=67513

Phil's piano lessons? ( didn't know he played the piano)
http://udn.lib.utah.edu/cdm4/document.php?CISOROOT=/sjr&CISOPTR=67928&CISOSHOW=67961

Phil played the piano:

http://udn.lib.utah.edu/cdm4/document.php?CISOROOT=/sjr&CISOPTR=69027&CISOSHOW=69068

Phil home for a few days:
http://udn.lib.utah.edu/cdm4/document.php?CISOROOT=/sjr&CISOPTR=69090&CISOSHOW=69130

Phil recommended to ordination to Elder:
http://udn.lib.utah.edu/cdm4/document.php?CISOROOT=/sjr&CISOPTR=69922&CISOSHOW=69935

Pictures...

Thanks to Taylor Lyman for sending these pictures!

Walter C. Lyman

(Marvin's Father)

Elizabeth Finlinson Lyman with children Ethel, Zola, and Marvin.

Elizabeth Finlinson Lyman

(Marvin's mother)




Lyman Brothers (standing) Bart, George, Lynn, Ray, and Marvin

Father (sitting) Walter C. Lyman

The Rest of the Story....

Last week while in Blanding, I found out a little more information on why Granny (Margie Hurst Lyman) ended up on Salt Lake for six weeks. In speaking with her daughter Caroline, she recalled that it was during the depression and the church had invited Relief Society Presidents from all over to a training in Social Work. During these six weeks, Caroline remembers her dad (Marvin) holding a piece of bread against the pot belly stove and toasting it. Caroline said, "I have never forgotten how good the toast smelled when he put butter on the bread." She also remembers him cooking meat this way.

Caroline also mentioned that when they went to pick up her mother in Salt Lake, that this was the VERY FIRST TRIP that she and Phil had ever taken to Salt Lake. This was a BIG DEAL for she and Phil. They were so excited! She said that when they were driving up to Salt Lake, it was winter; and in Price Canyon the car skidded on some ice and turned clear around. They stayed in a little apartment while in Salt Lake and she remembers that she and Phil were running in the hall of this apartment complex and they got in a little trouble!

Certificate that Margie Hurst Lyman was given at the completion of her training.

Picture of the Woman who participated in the six-week training.

Granny is in the front row, third from the right.

Granny has listed each woman who is in this picture and where they are from in her Book of Remembrance that is now in the possession of her daughter, Caroline Lyman Christensen.

P.S. Next week update is on eldest son Phil.

Beehive House letters - Part 3

This is the final installment of the Beehive House Letters. As I mentioned before, I could just see how much Grandpa Lyman loved Granny and how he missed her! Enjoy!!!

Marvin with his Bow Tie

(For some reason, I really like this picture!)

Margie Hurst Lyman

Nov. 4, 1931


Dearest Marg:

I am just writing a few lines to tell you I received your letter today stating that you are feeling better for which I am glad.

It seems kinda lonesome tonight as I sold the radio today to Eli_es Dalton, he took it to Bluff to keep him company this winter. You know he stays in Bluff now for the next 2 or 3 months. The mail leaves here 8:30 in the morning going north.

Lynn Thompson went to Grand J. (Junction) with Ray today to look for a stove. The kids have gone over to sleep with Ethel tonight so I will have the house to myself.

Same is about ready to start building a house. She is getting the lumber from Rowley’s on my acct, if she gets all of it she has ordered it will about pay their account here and will also pay Sam what I owe her.

I hear today that Aunt Caroline is holding her own and has a fair chance for recovery

The American Legion and Aux. are planning quite a celebration on the 11th.

See Link: http://udn.lib.utah.edu/cdm4/document.php?CISOROOT=/sjr&CISOPTR=16849&CISOSHOW=16867

They came after me to make another speech in school. I told them I had told my story three or four times and they had better get someone else this time. Of course, I was the main guy in the war but I think some of the others could say a few words on the subject.

Well I didn’t intend to write much when I started and I guess you’ll get tired of reading all this stuff, so I’d better pull in my neck and look to the bed.

I hope you are entirely recovered by now. Take good care of yourself.

I think of you always.

Lots of love,

Marvin

Nov. 10, 1931
Tuesday Morning


Dearest Marg,

First a few lines to give you the latest developments. We had a nice day yesterday but it is all cloudy today. I don’t think it will storm much however so we will not alter the plan.

In case De should call for you to bring you home tell him to go to the Devil. He has been telling around that he is going to bring you home and I thot ma[y]by when he heard I was coming after you he might rush up there and tell you I sent him for you. That’s the way he does business.

I started to tell you in yesterday’s letter about the kids, if I is at all feasible to bring them I will have to do it, they have been counting the days for a lone time and it would surely be a disappointment if I didn’t bring them.

I looked for a letter from you yesterday but was disappointed perhaps I’ll get one today. There is no news so will close my remarks with much love for you.

Marvin

I will drop you a line in the morning, which I suppose will be the last word till I come up.

Nov. 11, 1931
Wednesday Morning

Well Margie my Darling: I will drop you another daily bulletin of conditions. I received your letter yesterday and surely appreciated it.

It rained nearly all night and is all foggy today. The roads are in bad shape now but if it doesn’t rain any more I think we will start Friday. Of course it might keep storming until it will be impossible to come then so if we don’t arrive there Friday night you will know we are delayed on account of storms.

I will not write you again. Am hopeful I beat this letter there. If we are delayed more than a day or t[w]o I may wire you when we will come but you can depend on me getting their as soon as possible as I am sure anxious to see you and with a hug and kiss I greet you.

Until then I am yours. With a heap of Love.

Marvin


Link to San Juan Record stating Margie’s return to Blanding from Salt Lake City:
http://udn.lib.utah.edu/cdm4/document.php?CISOROOT=/sjr&CISOPTR=16941&CISOSHOW=16957

Beehive House letters - Part 2

Oct. 23, 1931


My Dear Margie:

I am setting up till twelve a clock tonight watching the lights. Lynn has never come back from Cortez but he called up tonight and reported that they had a girl, so I guess he’ll be home soon.

Caroline has gone down to Marion’s to sleep and I made Phil a bed here on the counter, he is sound asleep. I’m in the garage and have been interrupted about fifteen times since I started this letter. There’s a dance on and quite a bit of business and of course I keep the radio going all the time. I certainly get lots of good programs.

Phil is all O.K. again. I think he has asked me about 1000 questions today so I think he is back to normal. He sticks pretty close around with me most of the time I will see about getting him some warm underwear.

I do not know how many checks you have written, and will not know until I get my statement from the bank but I am not afraid of you spending money for anything unnecessarily or foolishly and I want you to have anything you need.

I wish you would let me know just when your school will be finished. I don’t know of any chance for you to come home and unless a right good chance turns up I may come up for you. I don’t want you to be inconvenienced in getting home. Of course I would love to come after you if I feel financially able. I would come anyway if I thot you would have any trouble in finding a right good chance. In case I should come I would probably come the day your school closed and stay one or two days or what would you suggest. Well it will be quite a long time yet. Guess we will have plenty time to make arrangements. I have put in all my spare time fixing the car here and there and everywhere. I’ll soon everything done to it that I can think of. Every time the kids see me working on it they want to know if I am getting it ready to go to Salt Lake.

Marion came down today to see me about going on with the lay. She said she had a letter from you yesterday. She wants me to take the part with Effie. I told her I would if the rest wanted to go on with it.

Well my dear I guess this will be about enough for this time. Please write right back. I love to hear from you.

Lovingly Yours

Marvin




Oct. 28, 1931


Margie Dear:

I just received your welcome letter. Am glad you are feeling better. We are all feeling fine. I think Phil is eating better than he ever did in his life. Caroline’s school is putting on an Operetta tonight. We are all going, that is Phil and me. She is going to be lettuce[e], has a green costume made.

Link: http://udn.lib.utah.edu/cdm4/document.php?CISOROOT=%2Fsjr&CISOPTR=16651&REC=0&CISOBOX=marvin+lyman

Well they resurrected the play the other day and again it has died. I told them they couldn’t put it on by the 6th but they had to rehearse for a week before they would believe me. They couldn’t get another night before January so I doubt if the old play will see another resurrection day and I think it is O.K. with me.

It has turned quite cold as north wind is blowing and it feels like winter is just around the corner. I put up the heater in the house the other night. It looks like I would probably have to come up and bring you home. I don’t know of any chance on this end and unless you get a chance to come right straight thru I think I will come and get you. I don’t think the bus a very durable means of travel and I doubt if you could find anyone coming straight thru. So unless something else shows up I will probably leave here the morning of the 13th.

I don’t think there is any news to speak of everything going on about as usual. So I guess this will be about all for this time. Write soon.

Much love,

Marvin




Nov. 3, 1931


My Dear Margie:

I received your letter today, was very sorry to learn of your affliction. I hope you are better by this time; am glad you are in such good hands, and I hope you will not hesitate to get what ever medical attention you need.

We are all well and feeling fine, but I was a little worried about you as your letter seemed later than I expected to hear from you. We have been having election today and Lucretia just came by and told me I was again elected to the Town Board. The ballots were all blank and you could vote for anybody you pleased for any office. There were about eighty votes cast, I received 66 for councilman and some for Mayor, so I guess I got my share. The lineup is as follows: H.D. Bayles, Mayor. M.F. Lyman, John D. Rogers, Arthur Hurst and B.D. Black, Councilman.

I received my bank statement today and your checks came in so I have a chance to check up on you. I will say that I think you have been very modest about writing checks so far. Perhaps you have been figuring a little too close. If you need any more clothes or permanent waves or anything else you would like, just help yourself. We want you to be fixed up all O.K. when you come home.

They started for Salt Lake with Aunt Caroline Redd Sunday morning but only got as far as Price when they had to stop and operate, they took our several galls tones, her condition was quite serious the last I heard. I haven’t heard today.

I went to Caroline’s Operetta. It was real good. Caroline did as well as any of them but her costume started to come to pieces when they were dancing and confused her some.

We have just pass thru another epidemic of Halloween. They didn’t do us much damage except the tip the back house over so we thot it was a good time to give it a new location farther away from the house which we did without the aid of a Specialist.

I still don’t know of a chance for you to come home so from appearances I will probably come after you.

Well I have exhausted my supply of news so guess I better stop while I have nothing more to say. Am looking for a letter tomorrow saying you are better.

Much love,

Marvin



Nov. 4, 1931


Dear Margie Girl

I am so worried over you and will be so glad when I can see your dear face again. I do hope and trust you are better. We are all just fine. I am getting better fast now.

I is a beautiful morning it makes one feel good they are alive.

Well the Town Board was elected yesterday. Bishop is Mayor, Marvin, Dad, Johnnie, and Bro. Ben Black are the councilmen.

I went to meeting yesterday and gave the lesson for Luella. I sure did get comp. but I did not do it alone for I was afraid to give it and I sure did plead with the Lord to help me.

Lulla is in the turkey killing. I am worried over her. I do wish she did not have to work so hard.

I saw little Phil yesterday. He is fine he says. He was with Platt D. I saw them both to S.S. [Sunday School] Caroline and Phil.

They gave up the play and they are putting on some kind of entertainment Friday nite. Dora and Reed are fine. He is down nearly every nite.

Nedra is sure doing fine in school. I am so glad. I to not want her to get through but I am afraid she can’t go on. Riley is sure doing good to. I don’t know how long they will keep him out but I don’t see how we can keep him going another year. Dora says Pa_l told her he did not think he would keep her on nay longer than after the holidays and the boys have no work. Dad is not able to do much but we will just leave it to the Lord. He does all things well. I guess you no Aunt Caroline is very sick in price. They started to S.L. [Salt Lake] but she got so bad they could not go on. She had gall stones and gangrene very serious.

Did you see the account of Glen Bailey’s death they had his funeral in Monticello. Dad and Oscar went, also Aunt Onie.

Well, I will close. I do love you.

Write soon,

Marv