A favorite memory during grade school was going to the movies in Laurel on a Monday night at the Legion Hall. There was a fellow, Bob Gray, from Marshalltown who was a policeman by trade, but, went around to small towns in the area and showed movies. I learned later when I ran into him in Marshalltown that he got them from a distribution center in Des Moines, Iowa.
Some of the movies were classics like Ma & Pa Kettle, Francis the Talking Mule, Abbott & Costello, and many more. We grade school kids sat up front on straight 2x12 wood planks. High school kids sat generally in the back on wood bleachers. Worth noting that it took 50 plus years for movie theaters to design stadium style theaters where people could see better. It was funny when the lights came on after a movie, to look back at the high school kids and catch them at "making out."
The first science fiction movie I saw was with my cousin Bob Bueghly. It was called The Day the Earth Stood Still. I was only about ten years old and scared me to death. I put my baseball hat over my eyes and my cousin kept trying to take it from me. I ended up on the floor. The robot coming out of the flying saucer was scary and the music gave you a chill for sure. I own that movie and still watch it annually or so.
Another concept in the 1950's was 3-D. This is where you put on cardboard glasses with colored plastic for viewing. It was neat watching a movie like The House of Wax with Vincent Price with figures falling out at you when the museum was burning. Also, there was a Western in 3-D where flaming arrows came right at you, boulders were thrown at you, and bodies were flipped into your lap during the fight scenes. It was neat stuff. Not until the early 2000's, did 3-D become popular again.
A lot of the science fiction movies, which I dearly loved, were in black& white. Them, It, and the previously mentioned, The Day The Earth Stood Still. And, who could forget The Creature From the Black Lagoon.
The drive-in theater was an experience not to be forgotten. Being able to watch a movie from inside your car with just a speaker hanging from your window was cool! The one in Marshalltown, stood at the northwest corner of old highway 30 and 14. When my kids were little, we would go with them in their P.J.'s, big bags of popcorn and go to the drive-in at West-Vue, on the northwest corner of Hickman Avenue & 86th Street in Urbandale, Iowa. One of the last movies we saw all together was a back to back Godzilla movie. We all woke up about 2 a.m. before leaving.
In 1979, I saw, at the Southeast 14th Street drive-in, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre. To this day, it's the scariest movie I have ever seen. I wish I hadn't. At one time there were three drive-ins along just 14th Avenue in Des Moines, Iowa. All are gone now (2014) except for one west of Newton, Iowa. At least in Central Iowa. Lots of things killed them off like daylight saving time, air-conditioning, and of course television. Maybe again someday?
Throughout my life, I have enjoyed going to movies and taking in the whole theater experience. I couldn't put a number on the amount of movies I have seen over the years. It's still one of my greatest enjoyments and hope to continue for a long time to come.
Friday, October 31, 2014
Thursday, October 30, 2014
JOHNNY & MAY THEIR START (part 3)
My folks had electricity in the 1930's from "check records." It was usually $3.00 per month. Heating was provided by coal and it was purchased from various sources and was used to heat our home until the early 1960'sradio, telephone, letters and plain old communication between people , when we moved to Laurel. On the farm, water usually came from shallow or deep wells. No, there was no central air-conditioning.
Most news and information was obtained by newspaper, radio, telephone, letters, and plain old communication between people meeting at the town grocery, tavern, church functions, or family gatherings. The early 1950's T. V. started to play a bigger role in regional and national news.
Sunday was the one day of the week, as a general rule, where no-one worked. That day was reserved for church and family. One exception was gas stations. There was shopping on certain nights of the week and of course, Saturday was the big shopping day in larger communities like Marshalltown, Iowa. Smaller towns like Laurel had there own special shopping nights like a Wednesday. Generally, my dad and mom went to his parents for dinner and the day. Family would visit and cousins would play. My Grandpa (T. A. Laverty) would play the juice-harp and fiddle.
That was the norm at the time and continued until cousins on both sides of our family graduated from high school and slowly moved away. Also, after the older generations passed away the various family reunions, the Irish reunions, the Smith-Ferguson-Cooper reunions, and the various club summer picnics were events that, for some, have long been forgotten. They were family gatherings for some to never be rivaled again.
Years ago, new automobiles were introduced each fall for the forthcoming year. My dad had written two checks in September of 1936 in the of $100 and then a second one in the amount of $200. The later check was noted-"paid in full" and made payable to a Vana Bros. It is not sure where the dealership was located or if the amount was for the total purchase price or trade in amount. It is assumed it was for a Chevrolet as that was all my dad purchased throughout his lifetime.
Checks were also written in 1937 ($300) and in 1940 ($450) to Motor Inn Chevrolet Co. in Marshalltown, Iowa. Even if these checks were for the amounts of the cars or the difference with trade-in, it was a reasonable amount by today's standards. An old cancelled check also verifies that a driver's license cost $1.00 and the tax on an auto sold was $1.00 or so.
I don't believe my dad was very mechanically inclined with automobiles as several checks were written to various auto repair shops and dealerships for small amounts. It was always said that Uncle Tommy was the mechanic and my dad was the mathematician.
Gasoline, as a general rule on the farm at least, was stored in an elevated barrel or underground and brought up by a gravity type pump. Records and cancelled checks from Standard Oil would indicate a price of 10 cents to 15 cents per gallon. This was in the 1930's and didn't change much until the 1950's. Also, a check was written to a North Central Mutual Auto Assn. for $11.05 in 1937. Without the policy, it isn't known the exact type of coverage.
Shopping. It appears that during the 1930's, my folks were able to shop freely at most popular stores in Laurel and Marshalltown. (It should be noted that most major shopping was done in Marshalltown rather than Newton, their county seat, mainly because Marshalltown was closer-ten miles vs. twenty miles distance.
For men, cancelled checks show People's Clothing and Phillips Men's Store were frequented by my Dad. My mother, according to cancelled checks and on occasion, were given checks in her name signed by my dad. Such stores were Herman's Britnall & Britnall, and Younkers. Also, Gamble Stores, Montgomery Wards, Spurgeons"s and Mickel Furniture, where it is documented that their first furniture was bought when they were first married.
Other stores that were used were Willard's Children Shop, Stepan Drug, Coast to Coast, Piggley Wiggley grocery and Clifton grocery. All the above stores were inMarshalltown. And yes, even Nichol's & Green's shoe store, which was still in business into the 1990's. It should be noted that Willard's women clothing is still operating on Main Street in Marshalltown as of this re-write-2014. Younker's is now located at the Marshalltown Shopping Center south of downtown. Piggley Wiggley later became Fareway.
-------------to be continued.
Most news and information was obtained by newspaper, radio, telephone, letters, and plain old communication between people meeting at the town grocery, tavern, church functions, or family gatherings. The early 1950's T. V. started to play a bigger role in regional and national news.
Sunday was the one day of the week, as a general rule, where no-one worked. That day was reserved for church and family. One exception was gas stations. There was shopping on certain nights of the week and of course, Saturday was the big shopping day in larger communities like Marshalltown, Iowa. Smaller towns like Laurel had there own special shopping nights like a Wednesday. Generally, my dad and mom went to his parents for dinner and the day. Family would visit and cousins would play. My Grandpa (T. A. Laverty) would play the juice-harp and fiddle.
That was the norm at the time and continued until cousins on both sides of our family graduated from high school and slowly moved away. Also, after the older generations passed away the various family reunions, the Irish reunions, the Smith-Ferguson-Cooper reunions, and the various club summer picnics were events that, for some, have long been forgotten. They were family gatherings for some to never be rivaled again.
Years ago, new automobiles were introduced each fall for the forthcoming year. My dad had written two checks in September of 1936 in the of $100 and then a second one in the amount of $200. The later check was noted-"paid in full" and made payable to a Vana Bros. It is not sure where the dealership was located or if the amount was for the total purchase price or trade in amount. It is assumed it was for a Chevrolet as that was all my dad purchased throughout his lifetime.
Checks were also written in 1937 ($300) and in 1940 ($450) to Motor Inn Chevrolet Co. in Marshalltown, Iowa. Even if these checks were for the amounts of the cars or the difference with trade-in, it was a reasonable amount by today's standards. An old cancelled check also verifies that a driver's license cost $1.00 and the tax on an auto sold was $1.00 or so.
I don't believe my dad was very mechanically inclined with automobiles as several checks were written to various auto repair shops and dealerships for small amounts. It was always said that Uncle Tommy was the mechanic and my dad was the mathematician.
Gasoline, as a general rule on the farm at least, was stored in an elevated barrel or underground and brought up by a gravity type pump. Records and cancelled checks from Standard Oil would indicate a price of 10 cents to 15 cents per gallon. This was in the 1930's and didn't change much until the 1950's. Also, a check was written to a North Central Mutual Auto Assn. for $11.05 in 1937. Without the policy, it isn't known the exact type of coverage.
Shopping. It appears that during the 1930's, my folks were able to shop freely at most popular stores in Laurel and Marshalltown. (It should be noted that most major shopping was done in Marshalltown rather than Newton, their county seat, mainly because Marshalltown was closer-ten miles vs. twenty miles distance.
For men, cancelled checks show People's Clothing and Phillips Men's Store were frequented by my Dad. My mother, according to cancelled checks and on occasion, were given checks in her name signed by my dad. Such stores were Herman's Britnall & Britnall, and Younkers. Also, Gamble Stores, Montgomery Wards, Spurgeons"s and Mickel Furniture, where it is documented that their first furniture was bought when they were first married.
Other stores that were used were Willard's Children Shop, Stepan Drug, Coast to Coast, Piggley Wiggley grocery and Clifton grocery. All the above stores were inMarshalltown. And yes, even Nichol's & Green's shoe store, which was still in business into the 1990's. It should be noted that Willard's women clothing is still operating on Main Street in Marshalltown as of this re-write-2014. Younker's is now located at the Marshalltown Shopping Center south of downtown. Piggley Wiggley later became Fareway.
-------------to be continued.
Obituary Report-Margaret Paul Laverty-wife of T. M. Laverty
Obituary Report
Laverty-- Died at her home, near Laurel, Iowa. October, 1998, Margaret, wife of Thomas M. Laverty, at age of 68 years, 6 months and 10 days, cause of death, general debility. Funeral services were held at Laurel, Rev. L. Colyu, Presbyterian pastor, assisted by Rev. J. Locke, M.E. pastor, conducting. Interment took place in the * German cemetery, Laurel.
.
Mrs. Laverty (Margaret Paul) was born in Craig parish, Antrim county Ireland, on March 12, 1830, and was married to Thomas M. Laverty, March 21, 1857. Several children were born to them previous to their emigration to America, in which country they arrived June 11, 1868. The family resided at other places for a time, butt have been residents of the present home for many years.
The deceased lady was a mother of nine children, six of whom survive her, three sons and three daughters, also, four brothers and two sisters of the deceased survive her, who with devoted husband sincerely mourn their bereavement of a loving wife, mother, and sister.
Mrs. Laverty was held in the most tender respect by her family. She was a devoted wife to her husband and a loving mother, which makes the loss to her family more severely felt, but so far as sympathy of friends may ameliorate their affliction they have it in the fullest measure. But few ladies were so highly respected by those who knew her best, and her departure from this life is sincerely regretted by many friends.
She has gone with hope of a better life where there is hope of a better life where there is not sorrow or sickness and where all may wish to follow when time for departure arrives.
*The Graceland Cemetery just west of Laurel, Iowa.
LAVERTY NOTES & MORE by Doris Lverty Eddy (final)
Every July we had an Irish Reunion, sometimes in Prairie City, Iowa and one time in Bates, Iowa, but, mostly in Maytag Park in Newton, Iowa. Irish from Marshalltown, Newton, and all over came. The last few years was held in Kellogg, Iowa and the last in Grinnell, Iowa and Bob Parker was President. It stopped in the 1980's when most of old Irish were gone. I enjoyed going as it gave you a feeling of belonging. I did get Clyde (Doris' husband) to go.
About doing (sweet corn) corn as a family in August, Daddy, Tommy, and Paul, would pick. Larry and I would shuck and the ladies cut off and packaged and got ready to go to Marshalltown so they could process and bring to Laurel later. Also remember hog slaughtering and hanging them in corn crib to drain.
About doing (sweet corn) corn as a family in August, Daddy, Tommy, and Paul, would pick. Larry and I would shuck and the ladies cut off and packaged and got ready to go to Marshalltown so they could process and bring to Laurel later. Also remember hog slaughtering and hanging them in corn crib to drain.
Wednesday, October 29, 2014
TODAY AT THE BURG GROCERY!
The issue today was when a customer was confused about what bag of Three Musketeers was the one on sale. There is actually an eleven ounce bag of Fun Size, which is a two bite size! And, then there is a Mini Size, which is a one bite size! Get out of here! Do we really need this kind of choice! As far as I'm concerned, that one bite size isn't worth the effort. Why bother!
THE LAVERTY FAMILY NOTES & MORE-by Doris Laverty Eddy (part 3)
Grandpa Laverty went to ball games (stood in line at Gilman shortly before he died March 17, 1950.) Grandma never went nor Grandma Smith did when I played. Grandma Laverty spent a lot of time at church. Was president of Guild between 1941-1943 or so when her mother was sick and died, but, Grandma never missed a meeting. I have a piece of paper her church Wellington Presbyterian in Ballymena sent when she transferred her membership from there to Laurel Methodist. She was on the church board etc.
She suggested two sinks in 1947 when they just got water in the kitchen. Grandpa would bring her up and he would sit up in front of Muller's (tavern) in nice weather. He gave out money to Sammy and me and probably other kids. Only 25 or 50 cents.
Grandpa was a Mason as were all the Lavertys, on the school board, and the year he went off Uncle Tommy went on. Aunt Glatha, Uncle Tommy's wife, was on for a while. Was on the board of (People's Savings Bank) also I believe.
Grandma and Grandpa were members of the farm organization called Grange as were mom and dad.(I have receipts where they paid dues.) Grandma always said she couldn't get Grandpa to go and then he didn't want to leave. He played his instruments. Remember one Grange ice cream social at a big house just south of Barrett corner. Later a tornado took that house. In 1970's I believe.
One Christmas we got stuck in mud just off where highway 14 is. Uncle Arnold Smith and Grandpa came and picked us up with a wagon and horse. Granma Smith fell down in mud south of big house at corner before they graveled road in 1941, the year I started school. We used to have to leave the car at corner and walk up.
Mom liked her "declam" and on the 4th of July, ran races to make some money to spend. Mom had her appendicitis out while she was carrying Dennis. Had her tonsils out when I was four and Evelyn Smith Brown stayed with me. Daddy had his appendicitis out in high school. Got sick while he and Mom were walking across school campus. Had them out at midnight. Dennis and Deborah were emergency but, both about age of eight.
When in high school, Daddy bought uncle Tommy's Ford and nothing but trouble and went to Chevrolets after that and Chevys only. In senior year they were going to skip school but, had car trouble and spent afternoon in Schnoors garage.
Mac Vanderventer, the superintendent, wouldn't let mom and dad walk across campus together. I met Mac and he said this was his first school and was told the kids were hard to handle and be rough from the first day.
Mom always went up to the pool hall to help during noon hour and daddy would walk part of the way with her and Mac didn't like it. Mom told of ones throwing books out of windows and her shoe went out once and she was caught coming up the fire escape and the teacher asked where she had been and she told him. Through the years at alumni I heard a lot of stories. It was just clean fun and I think they had fun like we did and no one was hurt.
She suggested two sinks in 1947 when they just got water in the kitchen. Grandpa would bring her up and he would sit up in front of Muller's (tavern) in nice weather. He gave out money to Sammy and me and probably other kids. Only 25 or 50 cents.
Grandpa was a Mason as were all the Lavertys, on the school board, and the year he went off Uncle Tommy went on. Aunt Glatha, Uncle Tommy's wife, was on for a while. Was on the board of (People's Savings Bank) also I believe.
Grandma and Grandpa were members of the farm organization called Grange as were mom and dad.(I have receipts where they paid dues.) Grandma always said she couldn't get Grandpa to go and then he didn't want to leave. He played his instruments. Remember one Grange ice cream social at a big house just south of Barrett corner. Later a tornado took that house. In 1970's I believe.
One Christmas we got stuck in mud just off where highway 14 is. Uncle Arnold Smith and Grandpa came and picked us up with a wagon and horse. Granma Smith fell down in mud south of big house at corner before they graveled road in 1941, the year I started school. We used to have to leave the car at corner and walk up.
Mom liked her "declam" and on the 4th of July, ran races to make some money to spend. Mom had her appendicitis out while she was carrying Dennis. Had her tonsils out when I was four and Evelyn Smith Brown stayed with me. Daddy had his appendicitis out in high school. Got sick while he and Mom were walking across school campus. Had them out at midnight. Dennis and Deborah were emergency but, both about age of eight.
When in high school, Daddy bought uncle Tommy's Ford and nothing but trouble and went to Chevrolets after that and Chevys only. In senior year they were going to skip school but, had car trouble and spent afternoon in Schnoors garage.
Mac Vanderventer, the superintendent, wouldn't let mom and dad walk across campus together. I met Mac and he said this was his first school and was told the kids were hard to handle and be rough from the first day.
Mom always went up to the pool hall to help during noon hour and daddy would walk part of the way with her and Mac didn't like it. Mom told of ones throwing books out of windows and her shoe went out once and she was caught coming up the fire escape and the teacher asked where she had been and she told him. Through the years at alumni I heard a lot of stories. It was just clean fun and I think they had fun like we did and no one was hurt.
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
THE LAVERTY FAMILY NOTES & MORE by Doris Laverty Eddy (part 2)
Through the years, we spent most Christmas eves at Grandma Laverty's after going to the church program. One year, I remember, Mom had to go back to our house for something and now I know she was putting out Christmas gifts for Santa. We were on our way to church.
Something I am remembering. When daddy was sick and we had been to Grandma Laverty's in the evening and we started home, Daddy didn't turn to go east and just kept on going south past Lyles. ( on highway 14) Mom hollered and she took over driving. He was mixed up. After that she worried every time Daddy went any place by himself he would get mixed up again, but, never did that she knew of.
Seems like most Sunday afternoons, we were over to Grandma Laverty's. Mary Ann Thompson was there a lot and Tommy, her husband.
Have clippings where Daddy, Harve Bloom, Fred & Mike Buhrow, and uncle Tommy went to various fights in Des Moines, fishing in Minnesota, and ball games in Chicago.
Uncle Paul played in District (basketball) for Laurel down in Iowa City, Iowa. I always stayed with Grandma Smith and Grandpa (mother's side) when Mom and Daddy went to ball games. Slept in the middle or slept on horse hair couch and I better stay on it or the Boggie Man would get me.
In the summer, we would pick peas. (Grandma Laverty) Grandma tried to teach me the schottish. When they went to dances, mom would bring me a bracelet or whatever they gave away. This was after the war(WW II) and mostly Forrest Park in Marshalltown and at times in Des Moines, mostly with Bob and Neve Louks. Mom always said she just got Daddy to dance and he got sick.
He got sick the first time at oat combining time. This was 1945, when I was in 4th or 5th grade. His doctors were Trey and Marble. Mom always talked about dancing north of Laurel on the slab on Sundays with a portable radio.
----------to be continued.
Something I am remembering. When daddy was sick and we had been to Grandma Laverty's in the evening and we started home, Daddy didn't turn to go east and just kept on going south past Lyles. ( on highway 14) Mom hollered and she took over driving. He was mixed up. After that she worried every time Daddy went any place by himself he would get mixed up again, but, never did that she knew of.
Seems like most Sunday afternoons, we were over to Grandma Laverty's. Mary Ann Thompson was there a lot and Tommy, her husband.
Have clippings where Daddy, Harve Bloom, Fred & Mike Buhrow, and uncle Tommy went to various fights in Des Moines, fishing in Minnesota, and ball games in Chicago.
Uncle Paul played in District (basketball) for Laurel down in Iowa City, Iowa. I always stayed with Grandma Smith and Grandpa (mother's side) when Mom and Daddy went to ball games. Slept in the middle or slept on horse hair couch and I better stay on it or the Boggie Man would get me.
In the summer, we would pick peas. (Grandma Laverty) Grandma tried to teach me the schottish. When they went to dances, mom would bring me a bracelet or whatever they gave away. This was after the war(WW II) and mostly Forrest Park in Marshalltown and at times in Des Moines, mostly with Bob and Neve Louks. Mom always said she just got Daddy to dance and he got sick.
He got sick the first time at oat combining time. This was 1945, when I was in 4th or 5th grade. His doctors were Trey and Marble. Mom always talked about dancing north of Laurel on the slab on Sundays with a portable radio.
----------to be continued.
THE LAVERTY FAMILY NOTES, OBSERVATIONS & PERSONAL MEMORIES.-by Doris Laverty Eddy
(My) great grandfather, Thomas M. Laverty, who married Margaret Paul and whose parents were Elizabeth McNaughton and John Laverty. T. M. was born in 1836 in County Antrim., we believe, and married Margaret Buick Paul in 1857 in North Ireland. Margaret was born in 1830 and died in Jasper County, Iowa in 1898. They came to Philadelphia and then Marengo in 1873 where he worked on the railroad and owned some land a mile west of Marengo.
They moved to Jasper County in 1876 and lived there 2 miles south of Laurel. He was a 32nd degree Mason and a member of the Za Ga Zig Shrine. He died in his home July 20, 1916.
Grandpa Tom A. and Annie McMullan Laverty were married in Marshalltown, Iowa February 10, 1910. Both were from County Antrim North Ireland. They had four boys- Thomas L. born December 5, 1910, William John born February 9, 1912, a son born and died in February 1916, and Paul Mac born also in February of 1923.
I remember Tom, Annie, and great grandmother Jane McMullan. She was tall and skinny and came to America with Grandma Laverty (Annie) and uncle Sammy McMullan. Great Grandpa McMullan died in Ireland after walking to town to see about papers for a son who came to the U.S. He got pneumonia and is buried somewhere around Ahoghill or Ballymena. He was married once before, I was told.
Grandma Annie came to the U.S. on the S.S. Cyrmic from Liverpool on December 21, 1907 and arrived in Boston on January 1, 1908. Her brother, James, sponsored her and aunt Rachel Thompson in Gilman, Iowa was here to greet Grandma, great-grandmother Jane and uncle Sammy McMullan.
Thomas M. and Margaret had nine children. JOHN, born February 13, 1858, and died in Nebraska in 1899. ELIZABETH, born June 24, 1859 and was in Iowa County census in 1870, but, not Jasper County 1880 census. **( As of 2014, the Iowa County Historical Society in Williamsburg, Iowa could not locate her with extensive search.) It was thought she was buried near Marengo, Iowa? PATRICK, born February 13, 1861 and died February 24, 1955, ended up owning most of the land, raised hogs, and was neatly dressed at all times when older. He and Tillie lived together on original homestead and moved to Laurel about 1950. MARGARET J. born July 2, 1863 and died of cancer in 1933. She was a seamstress. MATILDA born on July 4, 1863. Made good sugar cookies. I took her tomatoes out of my garden when they moved to Laurel. I remember she gardened earlier. She didn't go out much in later years anyway and didn't belong to any clubs. w She went to church when she was younger. THOMAS A. born February 19, 1866 and died March 17th 1950. ( St. Patrick's Day) More on him later. My grandfather. AGNES born August 31, 1870 in the U.S., married Thomas Whelan and she died in 1944. She always got me dresses for my birthday and always several sizes too big. They raised Lee and Harold Whelan who are to be presumed to come on the Orphan Train. JAMES of born March 23, 1872 near Marengo and probably died early. MARY ELIZABETH born near Marengo September 6, 1873 and died in 1897 south of Laurel. She died of consumption. Have obit.
-------to be continued
.
They moved to Jasper County in 1876 and lived there 2 miles south of Laurel. He was a 32nd degree Mason and a member of the Za Ga Zig Shrine. He died in his home July 20, 1916.
Grandpa Tom A. and Annie McMullan Laverty were married in Marshalltown, Iowa February 10, 1910. Both were from County Antrim North Ireland. They had four boys- Thomas L. born December 5, 1910, William John born February 9, 1912, a son born and died in February 1916, and Paul Mac born also in February of 1923.
I remember Tom, Annie, and great grandmother Jane McMullan. She was tall and skinny and came to America with Grandma Laverty (Annie) and uncle Sammy McMullan. Great Grandpa McMullan died in Ireland after walking to town to see about papers for a son who came to the U.S. He got pneumonia and is buried somewhere around Ahoghill or Ballymena. He was married once before, I was told.
Grandma Annie came to the U.S. on the S.S. Cyrmic from Liverpool on December 21, 1907 and arrived in Boston on January 1, 1908. Her brother, James, sponsored her and aunt Rachel Thompson in Gilman, Iowa was here to greet Grandma, great-grandmother Jane and uncle Sammy McMullan.
Thomas M. and Margaret had nine children. JOHN, born February 13, 1858, and died in Nebraska in 1899. ELIZABETH, born June 24, 1859 and was in Iowa County census in 1870, but, not Jasper County 1880 census. **( As of 2014, the Iowa County Historical Society in Williamsburg, Iowa could not locate her with extensive search.) It was thought she was buried near Marengo, Iowa? PATRICK, born February 13, 1861 and died February 24, 1955, ended up owning most of the land, raised hogs, and was neatly dressed at all times when older. He and Tillie lived together on original homestead and moved to Laurel about 1950. MARGARET J. born July 2, 1863 and died of cancer in 1933. She was a seamstress. MATILDA born on July 4, 1863. Made good sugar cookies. I took her tomatoes out of my garden when they moved to Laurel. I remember she gardened earlier. She didn't go out much in later years anyway and didn't belong to any clubs. w She went to church when she was younger. THOMAS A. born February 19, 1866 and died March 17th 1950. ( St. Patrick's Day) More on him later. My grandfather. AGNES born August 31, 1870 in the U.S., married Thomas Whelan and she died in 1944. She always got me dresses for my birthday and always several sizes too big. They raised Lee and Harold Whelan who are to be presumed to come on the Orphan Train. JAMES of born March 23, 1872 near Marengo and probably died early. MARY ELIZABETH born near Marengo September 6, 1873 and died in 1897 south of Laurel. She died of consumption. Have obit.
-------to be continued
.
IN MEMORY OF T. A. (TOM) LAVERTY-A POEM
By Mrs. J. H. Vieth
We've lost a friend, a faithful friend
And member of our Grange.
Quiet now, his endeavors here below,
Home beyond, and rest exchange.
In this life of four-score years and nearly five.
The spirit of youth within him never died.
Always cheerful, smiling, friendly as could be.
Sometimes a bit funny, he'd be sure to see.
We're going to miss him and miss him a lot.
This old-time friend, the "Tommy on the spot."
Whenever funds were needed, here or there,
Quick and generous he gave his share.
We won't forget so soon the lively tunes
he played for us now and then,
As evenings with the Grange he'd spend
Playing his fiddle or accordion.
Let us profit by his life of friendliness,
This friend of every man.
As we endeavor to be friendly,
And do the best we can.
God bless his wife, bring comfort to the family.
And may He grant to all,
Reunion in Blessed Eternity.
REMEMBERING ANNIE MC MULLAN LAVERTY by Doris Laverty Eddy
Grandma Laverty couldn't print just learned to write- she told me while doing corn. Grandma was member of Presbyterian Church and joined Laurel United Methodist when she was President of Women's Society ( a must at this time.) Member of Tuesday Study Club. And in Gilman, Order of Easter Star.
She couldn't drive so grandpa drove her. He waited up at tavern outside in nice weather and would give Sammy(close friend) and I (Doris)money if we walked by. Grandma tore material and made cotton balls that went to make carpet rags. She read Kitchen Klatterand and listened to Aunt Leann Duftmeier for years.
She liked to cook and had Oyster soup for February birthdays. A lunch was two kinds of potatoes and 2-3 kinds of vegetables. An orange salad she made a lot. Meat on bread or buns, cake, pie, and then tea at 4pm or so with cake, pie, etc.
I stayed with Grandma when mom and daddy went to Rochester and Denver.(after he got sick.) Slept on hard couch on north porch. Don't remember what we ate though, except her peanut butter cookies-always had these. Grandma always liked to dress up and always did for church where she spent a lot of time. Ladies Aid was twice a month in the 1930's and 1940's. She was on the Church Board also. Secretary for a while. She had a sense of humor.
Grandma, her mother Jane, and brother Sam came to the U.S. from Ballymena, North Ireland, and arrived in 1908 in Boston. Her brother, James, sponsored them to come here. Rachel, grandma's sister. and brother-in-law, Bob Thompson, in Gilman, Iowa were the ones they came to and stayed with.
Grandma worked for some people north of Laurel for a time as domestic help and for some people by the name of Parker north of Newburg, Iowa. Grandpa Laverty courted her by riding the hand car (railroad) to Newburg from Laurel. (info from Alan Laverty-grandson of T. A. Laverty and son of Paul and Mary Laverty)
They were married in Marshalltown by Presbyterian minister. Aunt Tillie was a witness and a John Coleman-possibly a boyfriend of Aunt Tillie. They were married on February 10, 1910 per their marriage certificate.
Grandma broke her nose in Ireland after falling off a bicycle going to work in the linen mills. She was probably the sole bread winner after her father died. (Doris couldn't find where he was buried when in Ireland in 1994.)
Grandma quilted a lot at home and at church. Put up quilt frame in living room in winter.
She couldn't drive so grandpa drove her. He waited up at tavern outside in nice weather and would give Sammy(close friend) and I (Doris)money if we walked by. Grandma tore material and made cotton balls that went to make carpet rags. She read Kitchen Klatterand and listened to Aunt Leann Duftmeier for years.
She liked to cook and had Oyster soup for February birthdays. A lunch was two kinds of potatoes and 2-3 kinds of vegetables. An orange salad she made a lot. Meat on bread or buns, cake, pie, and then tea at 4pm or so with cake, pie, etc.
I stayed with Grandma when mom and daddy went to Rochester and Denver.(after he got sick.) Slept on hard couch on north porch. Don't remember what we ate though, except her peanut butter cookies-always had these. Grandma always liked to dress up and always did for church where she spent a lot of time. Ladies Aid was twice a month in the 1930's and 1940's. She was on the Church Board also. Secretary for a while. She had a sense of humor.
Grandma, her mother Jane, and brother Sam came to the U.S. from Ballymena, North Ireland, and arrived in 1908 in Boston. Her brother, James, sponsored them to come here. Rachel, grandma's sister. and brother-in-law, Bob Thompson, in Gilman, Iowa were the ones they came to and stayed with.
Grandma worked for some people north of Laurel for a time as domestic help and for some people by the name of Parker north of Newburg, Iowa. Grandpa Laverty courted her by riding the hand car (railroad) to Newburg from Laurel. (info from Alan Laverty-grandson of T. A. Laverty and son of Paul and Mary Laverty)
They were married in Marshalltown by Presbyterian minister. Aunt Tillie was a witness and a John Coleman-possibly a boyfriend of Aunt Tillie. They were married on February 10, 1910 per their marriage certificate.
Grandma broke her nose in Ireland after falling off a bicycle going to work in the linen mills. She was probably the sole bread winner after her father died. (Doris couldn't find where he was buried when in Ireland in 1994.)
Grandma quilted a lot at home and at church. Put up quilt frame in living room in winter.
JOHNNY & MAY-THEIR START (part 2)
Outside of farming, my parents enjoyed and had several outside interests. My dad went to Minnesota with his brother Tommy and friends fishing on several occasions and they also were known to go to professional boxing matches in Des Moines. The men also went to baseball games in Chicago.
They both enjoyed going to movies and my dad especially enjoyed westerns. They also loved to go dancing. My mom belonged to a club (Federated Women's Club) that in the winter months would include the husbands and play a card game called "500." Also there were many social events that centered around their church that they attended-The United Methodist Church in Laurel.
A lot of the social aspect of their lives included week-end gatherings of family at my Grandma and Grandpa Laverty's home and special occasions with mom's family in the Marshalltown area.
They both enjoyed going to movies and my dad especially enjoyed westerns. They also loved to go dancing. My mom belonged to a club (Federated Women's Club) that in the winter months would include the husbands and play a card game called "500." Also there were many social events that centered around their church that they attended-The United Methodist Church in Laurel.
A lot of the social aspect of their lives included week-end gatherings of family at my Grandma and Grandpa Laverty's home and special occasions with mom's family in the Marshalltown area.
As this story continues, some of my information was obtained from old cancelled checks that my mother had saved. When she passed away in 2003, she had kept "all" cancelled checks from 1934, two years after they were married, well into the 1970's when mom was married to my step-dad, Maurice Korte.
There were two or three boxes of cancelled checks that I went through over a course of a few months and saved ones that could tell a story about their lives. Who would have known that "old cancelled checks would tell a story." Someday, soon, they will be saying --"What is a check?"
--------to be continued.
NOTES ON T. A. LAVERTY-by DORIS LAVERTY EDDY
T.A. (Grandpa Laverty) was born in County Antrim, near Galgorn, North Ireland on February 19, 1866 and came to U.S. with parents when under a year old.
They came to Philadelphia, then to Walcott near Davenport, Iowa then to Marengo. In 1873 his family moved to a farm approx. 2 1/2 miles south of Laurel, Iowa and he lived in immediate area until his death in 1950 on St. Pat's Day.
Grandpa loved his music, played fiddle, harmonica, juice harp, and accordion. Always played something when we went over. I especially liked "Irish Washer Woman." He never really went to church, but, always took Grandma and gave money to the church.
He was married to Clara Fagen first and they had a son who died and Clara died at an young age. Then married Grandma, Annie, in 1910 February 10th.
He farmed. Had Tommy (Thomas L.), on December 5, 1910, Johnny (William John) on February 9, 1912, and Paul Mac in February 1923. Lost one son between daddy and Paul.
He drove Chevrolets. Had Farmall machinery. He gardened and grew potatoes. He was a Mason, served on several boards, including People's Savings Bank of Marshalltown, Iowa. Member of the Grange. Grandpa's toes turned up on at least one foot. Said it was from wearing too tight of shoes. He got me a sled for Christmas one year.
***original notes from grandaughter of T. A. Laverty-Doris Yvonne Laverty Eddy.
They came to Philadelphia, then to Walcott near Davenport, Iowa then to Marengo. In 1873 his family moved to a farm approx. 2 1/2 miles south of Laurel, Iowa and he lived in immediate area until his death in 1950 on St. Pat's Day.
Grandpa loved his music, played fiddle, harmonica, juice harp, and accordion. Always played something when we went over. I especially liked "Irish Washer Woman." He never really went to church, but, always took Grandma and gave money to the church.
He was married to Clara Fagen first and they had a son who died and Clara died at an young age. Then married Grandma, Annie, in 1910 February 10th.
He farmed. Had Tommy (Thomas L.), on December 5, 1910, Johnny (William John) on February 9, 1912, and Paul Mac in February 1923. Lost one son between daddy and Paul.
He drove Chevrolets. Had Farmall machinery. He gardened and grew potatoes. He was a Mason, served on several boards, including People's Savings Bank of Marshalltown, Iowa. Member of the Grange. Grandpa's toes turned up on at least one foot. Said it was from wearing too tight of shoes. He got me a sled for Christmas one year.
***original notes from grandaughter of T. A. Laverty-Doris Yvonne Laverty Eddy.
Monday, October 27, 2014
JOHNNY & MAY-THEIR START (part 1)
William John Laverty (1912-1953) and Doris May Smith (1913-2003) were high-school sweethearts from the start and with very different family backgrounds. Both were raised close to or around the small farm community of Laurel in south Marshall and north Jasper county, Iowa.
Their story is Cinderella-like with less than a fairy tale ending. My dad, at 5'10," slender, jet-black hair and handsome-middle son of a prominent farmer. My mother, a little over 5' tall, a blonde beauty with piercing brown eyes-the youngest daughter of a restaurant/ pool hall keeper.
Through the years after my dad passed away, my mom frequently would venture back to the Depression Days of the 1930's. It seemed odd that ones favorite time or most memorable would be during such a period.
After I was a little older the realization hit me. They were married in 1932, young, very much in love, and just starting out -together. To them it was an exciting time. These were the "good old days." Not even the country's worst depression, droughts, or worst winters would stand in their way.
My parents were married December 1, 1932, in Rock Island, Illinois. They went there because, it is believed, there was no waiting period like in Iowa. They were very much in love and ready to begin their new life together.
Despite the timing of their marriage being set smack-dab in the middle of this country's worst recession, circumstances unique to an agricultural economy aided living conditions. Farmers could raise their own food, sell their crops and livestock for cash to purchase other goods and services. My dad, starting out, was a farm tenant within a family farm operation that was financially stable.
After my parents were married, it is believed they lived for a time with his parents until they moved to a farm to what the family referred to as the "90" which was just north and adjacent of the original homestead then occupied by Pat and Tillie Laverty. From there, they then moved east in the same square mile to the 160 acres in the southeast quarter of section 2, range 81, Township 18, owned by Pat Laverty.
Doris Laverty Eddy, my sister, was born in 1935, while at the "90." I was born in 1944, when they moved over to the "Big House" as was my younger sister, born in 1950, Deborah Laverty Arges.
to be continued.........
Their story is Cinderella-like with less than a fairy tale ending. My dad, at 5'10," slender, jet-black hair and handsome-middle son of a prominent farmer. My mother, a little over 5' tall, a blonde beauty with piercing brown eyes-the youngest daughter of a restaurant/ pool hall keeper.
Through the years after my dad passed away, my mom frequently would venture back to the Depression Days of the 1930's. It seemed odd that ones favorite time or most memorable would be during such a period.
After I was a little older the realization hit me. They were married in 1932, young, very much in love, and just starting out -together. To them it was an exciting time. These were the "good old days." Not even the country's worst depression, droughts, or worst winters would stand in their way.
My parents were married December 1, 1932, in Rock Island, Illinois. They went there because, it is believed, there was no waiting period like in Iowa. They were very much in love and ready to begin their new life together.
Despite the timing of their marriage being set smack-dab in the middle of this country's worst recession, circumstances unique to an agricultural economy aided living conditions. Farmers could raise their own food, sell their crops and livestock for cash to purchase other goods and services. My dad, starting out, was a farm tenant within a family farm operation that was financially stable.
After my parents were married, it is believed they lived for a time with his parents until they moved to a farm to what the family referred to as the "90" which was just north and adjacent of the original homestead then occupied by Pat and Tillie Laverty. From there, they then moved east in the same square mile to the 160 acres in the southeast quarter of section 2, range 81, Township 18, owned by Pat Laverty.
Doris Laverty Eddy, my sister, was born in 1935, while at the "90." I was born in 1944, when they moved over to the "Big House" as was my younger sister, born in 1950, Deborah Laverty Arges.
to be continued.........
Sunday, October 26, 2014
A BRIEF LOOK AT TELEPHONES LONG AGO
We've come a long way with the telephone since the 1950's and before. I won't enough try to discuss in any way the "smart phones" of today. Within a year or two there will be so many changes it will be amazing.
Back in the old days of the mid 20th century, the phone was used to simply communicate by voice to another. We had the wood wall mounted phone with a crank.
Living in the country, we were on a "party line," sharing the phone line with a few other people that usually lived on the same road for a distance. Our number was 3 on 5. Period. If you were dialing that number locally, you rang the number out with the crank. Our number cranked out was one short crank followed by three long cranks. Simple enough!
If there was some type of emergency, one person might asked everyone that was on the line to get off so you could make your call. It was real tough to talk about anything personal without the whole community knowing about it. If I wanted to make a call to my favorite "girl," I would go the telephone booth attached to the telephone office in town at Laurel and make my personal call. If it was long distance, I would simply go in the office and asked the operator how much the charge would be.
Later, we installed a smaller desk type phone with a crank. Not sure when we started using a rotary dial phone. A lot of people used the rotary phone long after the push-tone phones came in. It was the late 1990's, that I had my first cordless phone. I also had a car phone in the late 1970's when I first started in the real-estate business. Pagers were also used prior to the advent of cell-phones.
Back in the old days of the mid 20th century, the phone was used to simply communicate by voice to another. We had the wood wall mounted phone with a crank.
Living in the country, we were on a "party line," sharing the phone line with a few other people that usually lived on the same road for a distance. Our number was 3 on 5. Period. If you were dialing that number locally, you rang the number out with the crank. Our number cranked out was one short crank followed by three long cranks. Simple enough!
If there was some type of emergency, one person might asked everyone that was on the line to get off so you could make your call. It was real tough to talk about anything personal without the whole community knowing about it. If I wanted to make a call to my favorite "girl," I would go the telephone booth attached to the telephone office in town at Laurel and make my personal call. If it was long distance, I would simply go in the office and asked the operator how much the charge would be.
Later, we installed a smaller desk type phone with a crank. Not sure when we started using a rotary dial phone. A lot of people used the rotary phone long after the push-tone phones came in. It was the late 1990's, that I had my first cordless phone. I also had a car phone in the late 1970's when I first started in the real-estate business. Pagers were also used prior to the advent of cell-phones.
MONDAY WASH DAY!
The washroom area in the basement was the Monday hangout. My mother operated with the old wringer washer with a pair of rinse tubs. The type you see in antique stores or auctions.
Washing clothes was an all day affair. Ironing and more was saved for Tuesday. Cloths lines were mounted on metal posts back of the house with thick gage wire.
I can see still envision my poor mother, especially in the winter, wiping the lines with a damp washcloth before hanging out clothes with wooden clothes pins. The talent was hanging sheets so they would blow just right with a billow. Nothing today compares to the smell of fresh sheets and towels brought in and enjoyed that first night. Nothing!
One added observation was the shower that was rigged up in the same room. As I got older a shower was quicker than taking a bath upstairs. The DOWNSIDE was once the water was shut off completing the shower, it got cold real quick. You didn't mess around. You dried off and headed upstairs fast!
Washing clothes was an all day affair. Ironing and more was saved for Tuesday. Cloths lines were mounted on metal posts back of the house with thick gage wire.
I can see still envision my poor mother, especially in the winter, wiping the lines with a damp washcloth before hanging out clothes with wooden clothes pins. The talent was hanging sheets so they would blow just right with a billow. Nothing today compares to the smell of fresh sheets and towels brought in and enjoyed that first night. Nothing!
One added observation was the shower that was rigged up in the same room. As I got older a shower was quicker than taking a bath upstairs. The DOWNSIDE was once the water was shut off completing the shower, it got cold real quick. You didn't mess around. You dried off and headed upstairs fast!
Saturday, October 25, 2014
OUR BASEMENT-REALLY SCARY!
There are basements and then there was our basement. Half of it was the usual washroom where laundry was done, a shower mounted on one wall and the water pump along with the water heater. Another room which had ropes hung for clothes drying in the winter or rainy days. Also, my train set was kept there for a time. There was one other room that canned goods were stored and not much else.
Then there was the half of that basement that you hoped each day as a kid you would make it out of alive! Let's descend.
One door came in from the west side of our house and another came down from the main level bathroom. The main thing that first landing or level was used for was primarily an area for my dad's overalls to hang.
Now it gets better! The narrow stairs down led to a small open area before entering the furnace room straight ahead with the washroom to the right. About halfway down the stairs, there was an open stair back plate. You always knew that there was something or someone hiding in the dark area behind the stairs ready to trip you and then God-only-knows-what after that. And, if you made it safely down without a grisly hand grabbing you, the door to the furnace room that always stood open there was a surprise awaiting for you behind it. This gets better!
Now the real test begins. Once into the furnace room, you were greeted with the huge coal-fed monster with huge steroid induced heat pipes all leading upward that engulfed two-thirds of the room. To the back and right of the furnace was a dark vacant area that you knew something else "bad" was awaiting. To the left walking into the furnace room was a little area used to store mostly corn cobs used for stoking and harmless.
As a young boy, after my dad died, it was my job to go down through the winter and fill the coal stoker with small chipped coal that then was augured into the flaming furnace. Also, part of that job included removing the hard ash or clinkers that were left after burning. They needed to be removed by bucket and spread out onto our driveway.
Each evening, I would gather enough courage to open that door into the coal room to bucket up that coal. If I opened that door, I knew there was something monstrous waiting for me. It was bone chilling and heart throbbing time. Or, if not directly behind the door as I opened it then, something or someone was lying behind the coal pile that I could not see.
That feeling never really went away with that job. It was always amazing that my mother didn't find me some night lying there frozen in fright or at the very least sitting in a corner babbling to myself!
Then there was the half of that basement that you hoped each day as a kid you would make it out of alive! Let's descend.
One door came in from the west side of our house and another came down from the main level bathroom. The main thing that first landing or level was used for was primarily an area for my dad's overalls to hang.
Now it gets better! The narrow stairs down led to a small open area before entering the furnace room straight ahead with the washroom to the right. About halfway down the stairs, there was an open stair back plate. You always knew that there was something or someone hiding in the dark area behind the stairs ready to trip you and then God-only-knows-what after that. And, if you made it safely down without a grisly hand grabbing you, the door to the furnace room that always stood open there was a surprise awaiting for you behind it. This gets better!
Now the real test begins. Once into the furnace room, you were greeted with the huge coal-fed monster with huge steroid induced heat pipes all leading upward that engulfed two-thirds of the room. To the back and right of the furnace was a dark vacant area that you knew something else "bad" was awaiting. To the left walking into the furnace room was a little area used to store mostly corn cobs used for stoking and harmless.
As a young boy, after my dad died, it was my job to go down through the winter and fill the coal stoker with small chipped coal that then was augured into the flaming furnace. Also, part of that job included removing the hard ash or clinkers that were left after burning. They needed to be removed by bucket and spread out onto our driveway.
Each evening, I would gather enough courage to open that door into the coal room to bucket up that coal. If I opened that door, I knew there was something monstrous waiting for me. It was bone chilling and heart throbbing time. Or, if not directly behind the door as I opened it then, something or someone was lying behind the coal pile that I could not see.
That feeling never really went away with that job. It was always amazing that my mother didn't find me some night lying there frozen in fright or at the very least sitting in a corner babbling to myself!
CHILDREN OF THOMAS M. LAVERTY
1. JOHN LAVERTY- Born February 13, 1858, in County Antrim, North Ireland. Died in Dixon, Nebraska on May 2, 1899, where he farmed and lived near some of his relatives, the Pauls and Buicks. Never married. Buried at Graceland Cemetery, Laurel, Iowa.
2. ELIZABETH LAVERTY- Born June 24, 1859,. Died as youth and possibly buried near Marengo, Iowa.
3. PATRICK LAVERTY- Born February 13, 1859. Died February 24, 1955 in Laurel, Iowa. Never married. died of stroke. Buried at Graceland Cemetery, Laurel, Iowa.
4. MARGARET LAVERTY-Born July 2, 1863. Died 1933. Buried at Graceland Cemetery, Laurel, Iowa. Never married. She lived with brother Patrick and sister Matilda. She was a seamstress and was said to be most likeable and pleasant. She died of breast cancer.
5. MATILDA LAVERTY- Born "July 4th." Died October 30, 1952. Never married. Died of stroke. Buried at Graceland Cemetery, Laurel, Iowa.
6. THOMAS A. LAVERTY-Born February, 19, 1866. Died on St. Patrick's Day, March 17, 1950 on his farm south of Laurel, Iowa. Died of stroke. Buried at Graceland Cemetery, Laurel, Iowa.
****All above children born in County Antrim, North Ireland.
7. AGNES LAVERTY-Born August 31, 1870, at Marengo, Iowa. Died August 17, 1944. Buried at Graceland Cemetery. Laurel, Iowa. Married to Thomas A. Wheland. Had no children of their own, but, raised three children: Harold Shaw. Lee Coons, and Helen Shaw. She taught school and they lived on a farm west of Laurel.
8. JAMES LAVERTY-Born March 23, 1872, in Marengo, Iowa. Died at infancy and possibly buried in Marengo, Iowa.
9. MARY ELIZABETH LAVERTY-Born September 16, 1873, in Marengo, Iowa. Died December 27, 1897. Lived most of her life on family farm. Never married. Buried at Graceland Cemetery, Laurel, Iowa
Friday, October 24, 2014
PAT AND TILLIE LAVERTY (part 2)
----continued--
My mother, May Smith Laverty Korte, remembers riding horseback down to Aunt Tillie's and Uncle Pat's to have sugar cookies. This was when May was a young girl and lived with her family in Laurel. To repeat, as a young boy we would go over for a visit and the first thing I wanted was those addictive cookies.
It is hard for us today in the 21st century to imagine how a household of people existed without the likes of computers, TV, and at some point telephone, and possibly radio. But, at the same time, we can't imagine fully getting up extremely early, working and continuing to work well into the evening.
Most leisure time was with conversation, reading, sewing, napping, and making sugar cookies. It is believed that they did not travel often. My mother had told the story that Pat had gone once to Nebraska to "get or borrow" some money from Pat and Tillie's mother's family-the Buick's. Pat and Tillie's brother, John, also lived in Nebraska. I had heard the story that Uncle Pat had visited South Dakota, didn't like it, and never went back. Traveling was looked upon as a luxury for some and they never ventured outside their local area.
I've also thought it would be easy to be critical of them working and not enjoying the fruits of their labor. But, if it made them happy and in part that was the mind set
for the time in that social setting, who is to judge.
Both Tillie and Pat, including, brother Thomas A. ( my Grandpa), all owned their own farms. They never owned any farms jointly with one another-other words no partnerships. My mother always told the story of driving Aunt Tillie to her farms to collect rent and other farm business because Tillie did not drive. She would pay Mom $1.00 or so for her services. At one time Pat, Tillie, and T.A. owned at least 2,000 acres of farm land, which was sizable for the early to mid-20th century standards.
Uncle Pat was on the board of directors at the Commercial Bank in Marshalltown, Iowa at one time and was a Mason. My memories as a young boy of Uncle Pat were one of mostly awe. When we would go to visit, he was always dressed neatly in wool suit, long sleeved cotton shirt, with tie sometimes and if not his shirt was buttoned to the top-even in the summer. And, he had that "mustache." That stoic look always made me feel I was in the presence of a Godfather. In a way I was!
My mother, May Smith Laverty Korte, remembers riding horseback down to Aunt Tillie's and Uncle Pat's to have sugar cookies. This was when May was a young girl and lived with her family in Laurel. To repeat, as a young boy we would go over for a visit and the first thing I wanted was those addictive cookies.
It is hard for us today in the 21st century to imagine how a household of people existed without the likes of computers, TV, and at some point telephone, and possibly radio. But, at the same time, we can't imagine fully getting up extremely early, working and continuing to work well into the evening.
Most leisure time was with conversation, reading, sewing, napping, and making sugar cookies. It is believed that they did not travel often. My mother had told the story that Pat had gone once to Nebraska to "get or borrow" some money from Pat and Tillie's mother's family-the Buick's. Pat and Tillie's brother, John, also lived in Nebraska. I had heard the story that Uncle Pat had visited South Dakota, didn't like it, and never went back. Traveling was looked upon as a luxury for some and they never ventured outside their local area.
I've also thought it would be easy to be critical of them working and not enjoying the fruits of their labor. But, if it made them happy and in part that was the mind set
for the time in that social setting, who is to judge.
Both Tillie and Pat, including, brother Thomas A. ( my Grandpa), all owned their own farms. They never owned any farms jointly with one another-other words no partnerships. My mother always told the story of driving Aunt Tillie to her farms to collect rent and other farm business because Tillie did not drive. She would pay Mom $1.00 or so for her services. At one time Pat, Tillie, and T.A. owned at least 2,000 acres of farm land, which was sizable for the early to mid-20th century standards.
Uncle Pat was on the board of directors at the Commercial Bank in Marshalltown, Iowa at one time and was a Mason. My memories as a young boy of Uncle Pat were one of mostly awe. When we would go to visit, he was always dressed neatly in wool suit, long sleeved cotton shirt, with tie sometimes and if not his shirt was buttoned to the top-even in the summer. And, he had that "mustache." That stoic look always made me feel I was in the presence of a Godfather. In a way I was!
Thursday, October 23, 2014
HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRANDON!
Today is the special day! ( 10/23/14) Happy Birthday! What does the rope say to the plate. Nothing. Ropes don't talk!!
AFTER THREE MONTHS!
It's fun to announce that after three months we have had views from the following countries including the U.S.A.
United Kingdom, France, Australia, Germany, Poland, Canada, Switzerland, Jordan, and Ukraine.
United Kingdom, France, Australia, Germany, Poland, Canada, Switzerland, Jordan, and Ukraine.
OUR DINING ROOM-WHERE THE ACTION WAS
Through the years, I always had a problem with the homes I lived in because the dining rooms were never large enough. Nothing would compare to the dining room size of the home I grew up in. Nothing!
At Christmas time, the table with two or three leaves would hold 10 to 12 people easily with a card table off to the side for the kids. That room was the hub when relatives came for a holiday event. Some might say that the real action was in the kitchen where most of the ladies were preparing those many feasts, but, not for me.
The east side of this huge room was the opening to the living room with it's oak pocket doors that normally remained open until closed on cold winter spells to preserve the heat . To the south were expansive picture window with a bench seat the length of the room except for the door that went out to the enclosed porch on the south of the house.
The west wall was a built-in China hutch reserved for finer dishes and glasses and then the pass-through counter to the kitchen and below built-in drawers which kept games and all sort of things.
The north wall held a long wood buffet which also held fine china and glasses and held plates on top of prepared foods during those special meals. Above it was a long framed mirror that provided added depth and perception to the already over-size room. On either side was one door (left) that went back to a bedroom , later a TV room, and to the right side of the north wall was another door that led to a hallway and stairs to the second level.
During the winter, this room carries the fondest memories. Mom would close off the living room and the front master bedroom by closing the pocket doors and basically shutting down the house to two main rooms-the dining room and kitchen including the bathroom. With all the glass to the south, the dining room would obviously be the coziest room in the winter.
Many a day when we were snowed in , I remember playing Chinese Checkers with my mother to pass the time. Also, for a while our early TV was put in the dining room in the southeast corner. I still fondly remember watching the Davey Crocket series with Fess Parker as Davey from there.
With all the family meals shared and enjoyed there and those fond memories of snowed in days, it will always be my favorite room.!
At Christmas time, the table with two or three leaves would hold 10 to 12 people easily with a card table off to the side for the kids. That room was the hub when relatives came for a holiday event. Some might say that the real action was in the kitchen where most of the ladies were preparing those many feasts, but, not for me.
The east side of this huge room was the opening to the living room with it's oak pocket doors that normally remained open until closed on cold winter spells to preserve the heat . To the south were expansive picture window with a bench seat the length of the room except for the door that went out to the enclosed porch on the south of the house.
The west wall was a built-in China hutch reserved for finer dishes and glasses and then the pass-through counter to the kitchen and below built-in drawers which kept games and all sort of things.
The north wall held a long wood buffet which also held fine china and glasses and held plates on top of prepared foods during those special meals. Above it was a long framed mirror that provided added depth and perception to the already over-size room. On either side was one door (left) that went back to a bedroom , later a TV room, and to the right side of the north wall was another door that led to a hallway and stairs to the second level.
During the winter, this room carries the fondest memories. Mom would close off the living room and the front master bedroom by closing the pocket doors and basically shutting down the house to two main rooms-the dining room and kitchen including the bathroom. With all the glass to the south, the dining room would obviously be the coziest room in the winter.
Many a day when we were snowed in , I remember playing Chinese Checkers with my mother to pass the time. Also, for a while our early TV was put in the dining room in the southeast corner. I still fondly remember watching the Davey Crocket series with Fess Parker as Davey from there.
With all the family meals shared and enjoyed there and those fond memories of snowed in days, it will always be my favorite room.!
PAT AND TILLIE LAVERTY (part 1)
Patrick (1861-1958) and Matilda (1864-1952) were born in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, and came to America with their parents in the late 1860's. They first came to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and lived there for a short time and then to Walcott, Iowa, and then on to Marengo, Iowa, where their father, Thomas M. Laverty, worked on the railroad.
During the 1870's, they moved to north Jasper county, Iowa just south of Laurel. That is where T. M. Laverty, their father, purchased the family farm. (part of Section 2, Range 81, Township 18.) Pat and Tillie lived there in the same house all their lives until moving to Laurel in the early 1950's. Their sisters, Margaret and Mary Elizabeth lived there with them all their lives.
Brothers and sisters living together was not that uncommon for the time, as there were not all the methods of meeting others as today. Plus, if you did not go to church or was a member of various organizations of that time, it would have been difficult to meet others. We will never know.
Tillie, however, was a member of the Laurel Methodist Church, and Order of Eastern Star. She was believed to have had a boyfriend at one time who she met at an Irish reunion. He would come down to visit from Marshalltown. It was possibly, John Coleman, shown on the marriage certificate as a witness for T. A. & Annie Laverty. It is unclear why that relationship did not work out.
Tillie was an attractive lady of average stature. No doubt, Tillie and her sisters did most of the house work. No one in the family is sure if any of the "Laverty women" worked in the field as such. One thing every one that knew her, including this grandson and writer, agreed on was that she made the best sugar cookies. It shows the importance of one little thing to remember a person by. She also loved to garden and was known to give out a Baby Ruth candy bar from time to time.
--------------to be continued.
During the 1870's, they moved to north Jasper county, Iowa just south of Laurel. That is where T. M. Laverty, their father, purchased the family farm. (part of Section 2, Range 81, Township 18.) Pat and Tillie lived there in the same house all their lives until moving to Laurel in the early 1950's. Their sisters, Margaret and Mary Elizabeth lived there with them all their lives.
Brothers and sisters living together was not that uncommon for the time, as there were not all the methods of meeting others as today. Plus, if you did not go to church or was a member of various organizations of that time, it would have been difficult to meet others. We will never know.
Tillie, however, was a member of the Laurel Methodist Church, and Order of Eastern Star. She was believed to have had a boyfriend at one time who she met at an Irish reunion. He would come down to visit from Marshalltown. It was possibly, John Coleman, shown on the marriage certificate as a witness for T. A. & Annie Laverty. It is unclear why that relationship did not work out.
Tillie was an attractive lady of average stature. No doubt, Tillie and her sisters did most of the house work. No one in the family is sure if any of the "Laverty women" worked in the field as such. One thing every one that knew her, including this grandson and writer, agreed on was that she made the best sugar cookies. It shows the importance of one little thing to remember a person by. She also loved to garden and was known to give out a Baby Ruth candy bar from time to time.
--------------to be continued.
EARLY TV-REAL EARLY!
As near as I can remember, we had our first TV around 1949. I was four or five years old and yes it was in black and white. The first station in our area was WOI-in Ames and it seemed, without research, all three networks were on that one station. Or, maybe that was the only one we watched?
At first, one thing I know, TV shows came on at first in the afternoon around 4 o'clock. Then actually signed off at midnight with the national anthem playing while you viewed patriotic images!
Some of the first shows were Howdy Dowdy, Kate Smith Hour, Captain Video, Winky Dink,( I bet you don't remember that one) Fury, Milton Berle, and Ed Sullivan, to just name a few.
Also, in those first years, the news carried stories about the Korean War. As a little kid I thought that war was just a regular and ongoing thing.
Until I left for college in the early 1960's, our family didn't have color TV. Seeing color TV for the first time was a really big deal. As mentioned in another story about the event, color was seen for the first time at my uncle Paul Laverty's home. That would have been with the first episode or so of Bonanza which originated in 1959. Again, to see the Peacock's feathers spreading out from black and white and then into color was a mind blower! (The Peacock was the NBC network's symbol at the time.)
Lastly, in those early days, you either got decent reception with rabbit ears or if you were fortunate, you had an antennae on your roof or sitting safely in your attic like we did. Where we lived, south of Laurel and being up somewhat high, we got great reception and not only Des Moines and Ames, but, also Cedar Rapids and Waterloo stations.
And no, we did not have remote control! we actually had to get up and off our behinds and change the channel. We had it rough!
At first, one thing I know, TV shows came on at first in the afternoon around 4 o'clock. Then actually signed off at midnight with the national anthem playing while you viewed patriotic images!
Some of the first shows were Howdy Dowdy, Kate Smith Hour, Captain Video, Winky Dink,( I bet you don't remember that one) Fury, Milton Berle, and Ed Sullivan, to just name a few.
Also, in those first years, the news carried stories about the Korean War. As a little kid I thought that war was just a regular and ongoing thing.
Until I left for college in the early 1960's, our family didn't have color TV. Seeing color TV for the first time was a really big deal. As mentioned in another story about the event, color was seen for the first time at my uncle Paul Laverty's home. That would have been with the first episode or so of Bonanza which originated in 1959. Again, to see the Peacock's feathers spreading out from black and white and then into color was a mind blower! (The Peacock was the NBC network's symbol at the time.)
Lastly, in those early days, you either got decent reception with rabbit ears or if you were fortunate, you had an antennae on your roof or sitting safely in your attic like we did. Where we lived, south of Laurel and being up somewhat high, we got great reception and not only Des Moines and Ames, but, also Cedar Rapids and Waterloo stations.
And no, we did not have remote control! we actually had to get up and off our behinds and change the channel. We had it rough!
BERNIE-A LITTLE DIFFERENT!
Bernie Klauenberg. He was a little different. Single and lived at home with his mother on a farm west of Laurel, Iowa. He was built like an offensive guard for a small college football team. He never talked a lot, but, always seemed to have a little chuckle going.
He never married and when he passed away he left his farm to the county for a land preserve. He was about ten years older than guys around me in high school, but, I guess because of maturity he felt more comfortable around people younger than him.
During the summer on a Saturday night, Bernie would roll into town in his light green 56' Chevy after dinner and pull into the Standard Oil gas station in Laurel. We would usually talk awhile and then make a decision to go to the auto races in Knoxville about fifty miles to the south on highway 14. We never had to worry about safety because Bernie never was known to drink or use drugs.
On a few occasions, Ed Spence and I, who was a grade ahead of me, would go out and work at Bernie's farm. Generally, it would be something like using a spade and chopping out thistles from pasture land.
What was great when working out there was lunch time. We'd usually drive to nearby Baxter and eat at the café connected to the livestock auction barn. The food was fantastic. The hamburgers were made at a time when fat content was still not a big issue. Probably 60/40 or who knows! All I know they were delicious. Greasy and juicy--nothing like it. The thick chocolate malt with lots of malt and ice cream made with real cream. The expression "it doesn't get any better than this" must have originated here!
After enjoying a feast like that and maybe catching a little of the auction, it was back to the salt mine. It wasn't a bad little summer job with a fantastic lunch time perk!
He never married and when he passed away he left his farm to the county for a land preserve. He was about ten years older than guys around me in high school, but, I guess because of maturity he felt more comfortable around people younger than him.
During the summer on a Saturday night, Bernie would roll into town in his light green 56' Chevy after dinner and pull into the Standard Oil gas station in Laurel. We would usually talk awhile and then make a decision to go to the auto races in Knoxville about fifty miles to the south on highway 14. We never had to worry about safety because Bernie never was known to drink or use drugs.
On a few occasions, Ed Spence and I, who was a grade ahead of me, would go out and work at Bernie's farm. Generally, it would be something like using a spade and chopping out thistles from pasture land.
What was great when working out there was lunch time. We'd usually drive to nearby Baxter and eat at the café connected to the livestock auction barn. The food was fantastic. The hamburgers were made at a time when fat content was still not a big issue. Probably 60/40 or who knows! All I know they were delicious. Greasy and juicy--nothing like it. The thick chocolate malt with lots of malt and ice cream made with real cream. The expression "it doesn't get any better than this" must have originated here!
After enjoying a feast like that and maybe catching a little of the auction, it was back to the salt mine. It wasn't a bad little summer job with a fantastic lunch time perk!
Monday, October 20, 2014
THE CHASE-BUT WE DIDN'T SHOOT THE DEPUTY!
The night started when someone came up with the idea of taking a lantern with a red flashing light on top for a devilish purpose. This object in the hands of young teenage boys on a weekend evening was a dangerous thing. This group didn't know how dangerous!
There were four or five of us and it was decided to pull behind cars going through town and pretend that we were a local cop. We would follow them out of town and when they pulled over at the first cross-road corner north of Laurel on highway 14, we would all have a great laugh and go back to town and do it over again. It worked a couple of times. But, then!
Somehow that third car stopped. Somebody was getting out and walking over to my car. I was the patsy with the car and the one this angry-looking guy was coming after. You could see him walking in front of his headlights right to us. Oh-oh! One of my class-mates, who was directly behind me, reached up and hit the lock button on my door. Fast thinking. The guy's hand hit the outside door handle. He was too late. Thank goodness!
The chase was on. We turned around and headed back toward town. Those car headlights were coming up fast behind us. Straight through town heading south on highway 14 into my own turf. South of my Grandpa's old place then east on gravel toward my home. Headed north again on gravel with headlights off. Like that would help with a trail of gravel trailing us. We weren't losing him.
We made it back into Laurel and headed immediately up and into a grain elevator located at the time a block west of Main Street. Engine off. Lights off. No one was breathing in the car. I'm not sure how long we waited. It seemed like half the night. Eventually, we felt he must have left. We were safe and were to live another day.
The next morning, I came into town to see my best friend at the shop were his dad worked. My 57 Chevy was parked across the street at my brother-in-law's service station. The "guy" was back and was asking who owned that coral Chevy. My brother-in-law told him it belonged to HIS brother-in-law. Why? Thank goodness, Clyde, my brother-in-law, was bigger than this guy!
The guy turned out to be a deputy sheriff from Jasper County and had been driving through with his wife. Not sure he was too smart chasing us all around with his wife in the car? Something about two wrongs! Another case of a guardian angel watching over a group of teenage idiots here on earth!
There were four or five of us and it was decided to pull behind cars going through town and pretend that we were a local cop. We would follow them out of town and when they pulled over at the first cross-road corner north of Laurel on highway 14, we would all have a great laugh and go back to town and do it over again. It worked a couple of times. But, then!
Somehow that third car stopped. Somebody was getting out and walking over to my car. I was the patsy with the car and the one this angry-looking guy was coming after. You could see him walking in front of his headlights right to us. Oh-oh! One of my class-mates, who was directly behind me, reached up and hit the lock button on my door. Fast thinking. The guy's hand hit the outside door handle. He was too late. Thank goodness!
The chase was on. We turned around and headed back toward town. Those car headlights were coming up fast behind us. Straight through town heading south on highway 14 into my own turf. South of my Grandpa's old place then east on gravel toward my home. Headed north again on gravel with headlights off. Like that would help with a trail of gravel trailing us. We weren't losing him.
We made it back into Laurel and headed immediately up and into a grain elevator located at the time a block west of Main Street. Engine off. Lights off. No one was breathing in the car. I'm not sure how long we waited. It seemed like half the night. Eventually, we felt he must have left. We were safe and were to live another day.
The next morning, I came into town to see my best friend at the shop were his dad worked. My 57 Chevy was parked across the street at my brother-in-law's service station. The "guy" was back and was asking who owned that coral Chevy. My brother-in-law told him it belonged to HIS brother-in-law. Why? Thank goodness, Clyde, my brother-in-law, was bigger than this guy!
The guy turned out to be a deputy sheriff from Jasper County and had been driving through with his wife. Not sure he was too smart chasing us all around with his wife in the car? Something about two wrongs! Another case of a guardian angel watching over a group of teenage idiots here on earth!
AS A KID ON THE FARM-NO TECH SUPPORT
A few years ago while taking my grand-kids back to their home in Ankeny, we drove a different way from Marshalltown and went through the small town of Collins. My youngest grandson, Grant, mentioned that he could not imagine living in a really small town or out in the country as there wouldn't be anything to do.
I quickly reminded him that I grew up on a farm and there were lots of things to do. And there was. First of all, our farm was 160 acres and that was a good start.
Each farm building was there to be explored, especially the barn. The hay mow was always exciting to jump down to from the balcony above. Or just watching the cattle having their evening meal of hay and studying their faces-all different just like people. Climbing up to the peak and enjoying the view from atop my world.
We had a cave just west of our house. It once had a house that sat on top and was moved elsewhere and then was capped over. It became my personal hide-out headquarters. A cellar like door led down into my domain and that area provided hours upon hours of play-time.
The grove was great for playing cowboys or Tarzan in the trees. We also had a creek that ran through a corner of our farm with a super deep ravine. It was my Grand Canyon-really cool! Great exploring.
We always had a dog for a pet that was my companion and daily pal. My younger sister for a while had a pony which provided entertainment and enjoyment. Plus, all the livestock kept you going. It was my job to feed and care for cattle that we raised including 4-H calves. On a farm a lot of work and pleasure went hand in hand if that makes sense.
Speaking of animals, it was my job, on occasion, to take a chicken, when chicken was on the menu, and put its little head between two wood stakes and ------ I don't need to continue. You get the picture.
My cousins only lived less than a mile away on connecting farms, plus friends lived also within a mile or two. We had their farms and barns to play in/around. We could swim in the many farm ponds around and at one time our family had a army surplus jeep to drive around in. That was very cool!
In our machine shed, where the dirt was soft from the machinery, I would build roads with my Tonka trucks and earth movers. A Lionel train was set up in our basement and again our house was big enough with a huge full attic that provided lots of space to spread out in especially on rainy days.
We would play croquet on our spacious and flat front yard. We explored Indian burial grounds about one-half mile away. We could explore the culverts under the roads and use as hideouts. We could fish a small creek that originated just north of our farm.
In the winter, when we were snowed in, we would play Chinese checkers by the hour. And, yes, we had T.V. and radio. The winter also provided lots of snow with huge drifts to build "igloos and snow caves" and great sledding.
Then, visiting cousins in nearby Marshalltown provided additional opportunities for kids and urban territory to explore. That was another interesting and cool world.
Living on the farm in the 1950's was not boring! All of the above we did without computers, smart phones, or play stations. I'm exhausted just writing about the experiences! Bored we were not!
I quickly reminded him that I grew up on a farm and there were lots of things to do. And there was. First of all, our farm was 160 acres and that was a good start.
Each farm building was there to be explored, especially the barn. The hay mow was always exciting to jump down to from the balcony above. Or just watching the cattle having their evening meal of hay and studying their faces-all different just like people. Climbing up to the peak and enjoying the view from atop my world.
We had a cave just west of our house. It once had a house that sat on top and was moved elsewhere and then was capped over. It became my personal hide-out headquarters. A cellar like door led down into my domain and that area provided hours upon hours of play-time.
The grove was great for playing cowboys or Tarzan in the trees. We also had a creek that ran through a corner of our farm with a super deep ravine. It was my Grand Canyon-really cool! Great exploring.
We always had a dog for a pet that was my companion and daily pal. My younger sister for a while had a pony which provided entertainment and enjoyment. Plus, all the livestock kept you going. It was my job to feed and care for cattle that we raised including 4-H calves. On a farm a lot of work and pleasure went hand in hand if that makes sense.
Speaking of animals, it was my job, on occasion, to take a chicken, when chicken was on the menu, and put its little head between two wood stakes and ------ I don't need to continue. You get the picture.
My cousins only lived less than a mile away on connecting farms, plus friends lived also within a mile or two. We had their farms and barns to play in/around. We could swim in the many farm ponds around and at one time our family had a army surplus jeep to drive around in. That was very cool!
In our machine shed, where the dirt was soft from the machinery, I would build roads with my Tonka trucks and earth movers. A Lionel train was set up in our basement and again our house was big enough with a huge full attic that provided lots of space to spread out in especially on rainy days.
We would play croquet on our spacious and flat front yard. We explored Indian burial grounds about one-half mile away. We could explore the culverts under the roads and use as hideouts. We could fish a small creek that originated just north of our farm.
In the winter, when we were snowed in, we would play Chinese checkers by the hour. And, yes, we had T.V. and radio. The winter also provided lots of snow with huge drifts to build "igloos and snow caves" and great sledding.
Then, visiting cousins in nearby Marshalltown provided additional opportunities for kids and urban territory to explore. That was another interesting and cool world.
Living on the farm in the 1950's was not boring! All of the above we did without computers, smart phones, or play stations. I'm exhausted just writing about the experiences! Bored we were not!
Sunday, October 19, 2014
HALLOWEEN PRANKS AND MORE!
I did my share of pranks and a little mischief as a young boy. Nothing ever destructive, but, like all pranks there was always the possibility of someone getting injured I suppose. There were usually consequences. Well, at least some of the time.
If it was Halloween, the prank usually involved a pumpkin or two! One year in high school a group (not a gang) of us invaded a local farmer's pumpkin patch, took them to Laurel, and for some unknown reason, smashed them all over Main Street! (highway 14) Why did we do that you ask! It always seems like a good idea at the time.
We were caught by the local town cop. His name was Emery Wunn. We spent the next morning cleaning up the street. Oh, yes! It's hard to believe that a small town like Laurel (pop. 250) had its own "police force-one man." He is good for a story another day!
One little trick that was also fun was to pretend pulling a rope across the street with someone across from you as a car was approaching. The car would usually slow down or sometimes stop. That prank was pure genius!
Or--how about getting a ladder and hauling vegetables, fruit, eggs, etc., and heaving them off at night at cars passing through atop the old hardware building. I know it was a little over the edge but--
Or--throwing snowballs at cars in the winter on main street and then running and hiding in the outside restroom attached to the Skelly gas station.
Or- throwing fake "big" firecrackers, lit, through the back door of the local tavern and watch patrons run out!
Or- on the 4th of July night, while my mother was in Clear Lake, Iowa as a camp counselor for the Methodist Church, my friend Rick and I did our thing. We made our way around the town of Laurel on the outskirts, through corn-fields, and setting off a barrage of loud fireworks! Ahh! Those were the days!
If it was Halloween, the prank usually involved a pumpkin or two! One year in high school a group (not a gang) of us invaded a local farmer's pumpkin patch, took them to Laurel, and for some unknown reason, smashed them all over Main Street! (highway 14) Why did we do that you ask! It always seems like a good idea at the time.
We were caught by the local town cop. His name was Emery Wunn. We spent the next morning cleaning up the street. Oh, yes! It's hard to believe that a small town like Laurel (pop. 250) had its own "police force-one man." He is good for a story another day!
One little trick that was also fun was to pretend pulling a rope across the street with someone across from you as a car was approaching. The car would usually slow down or sometimes stop. That prank was pure genius!
Or--how about getting a ladder and hauling vegetables, fruit, eggs, etc., and heaving them off at night at cars passing through atop the old hardware building. I know it was a little over the edge but--
Or--throwing snowballs at cars in the winter on main street and then running and hiding in the outside restroom attached to the Skelly gas station.
Or- throwing fake "big" firecrackers, lit, through the back door of the local tavern and watch patrons run out!
Or- on the 4th of July night, while my mother was in Clear Lake, Iowa as a camp counselor for the Methodist Church, my friend Rick and I did our thing. We made our way around the town of Laurel on the outskirts, through corn-fields, and setting off a barrage of loud fireworks! Ahh! Those were the days!
MY FIRST PIZZA WITH DORIS!
Zeno's Pizza was the first time I recall having pizza in a restaurant. It was started in the early 1950's in Marshalltown, Iowa and as of this writing (October 2014) is still there on Main Street. My sister, Doris, took me there in the late 1950's for the first time.
The one thing I remember thinking, when it was served, was how great the smell was. But, the look of it was kind of gross. All that swirly cheese and who knows what mixed in there. No sir! This would never catch on! The rest is history.
The big treat became fixing a homemade pizza on a Friday or Saturday night in the late 1950's and early 1960's. Mom would always buy a Chef Boyardee box pizza. It was fun watching the dough rise and watching her spread it out on a round metal pan. Then came the sauce, cheese, and usually hamburger. Boy! That was living.
The one thing I remember thinking, when it was served, was how great the smell was. But, the look of it was kind of gross. All that swirly cheese and who knows what mixed in there. No sir! This would never catch on! The rest is history.
The big treat became fixing a homemade pizza on a Friday or Saturday night in the late 1950's and early 1960's. Mom would always buy a Chef Boyardee box pizza. It was fun watching the dough rise and watching her spread it out on a round metal pan. Then came the sauce, cheese, and usually hamburger. Boy! That was living.
SISTER DORIS- ALWAYS HAD MY BACK!
Most of my life I have been maybe a little too melancholy. With my sister, Doris, rehabilitating from her terrible fall recently, it made me stop and reflect about her and how special she has been to me.
First, it started when I was little and times riding the bus to and from school. Nobody ever would dare pick on me or they would have had to deal with my big sister.
Second, there was a dark time in my life when she didn't give up on me. If it hadn't been for her and my brother-in-law who knows what would have happened.
Third, she has always been thoughtful, in remembering special holidays with greeting cards-birthdays, Valentines Day, and of course always St. Patrick's Day!
Fourth, if she doesn't hear from you in a while, she is on the phone asking if everything is O.K!
I would have done anything to put myself in her place with her injury. Now, all I know is that it is time for me to be there for her even if it is just getting her one Maid Rite with onions.
First, it started when I was little and times riding the bus to and from school. Nobody ever would dare pick on me or they would have had to deal with my big sister.
Second, there was a dark time in my life when she didn't give up on me. If it hadn't been for her and my brother-in-law who knows what would have happened.
Third, she has always been thoughtful, in remembering special holidays with greeting cards-birthdays, Valentines Day, and of course always St. Patrick's Day!
Fourth, if she doesn't hear from you in a while, she is on the phone asking if everything is O.K!
I would have done anything to put myself in her place with her injury. Now, all I know is that it is time for me to be there for her even if it is just getting her one Maid Rite with onions.
ANNIE LAVERTY-TO AMERICA ON NEW YEAR'S DAY!! (part 2)
continued---
She received her education in Ireland, probably Ballymena, and was a member of the Wellington Presbyterian Church there and later transferred membership to the Laurel Methodist Church.
It is also noted that while going to work at the linen mills, she broke her nose after falling off a bicycle. Also, she probably became the sole bread winner after her father died, as most other family members had already come to America, or as with Sammy, her younger brother, was too young. In 1994, Doris Laverty Eddy, oldest grand-daughter of Annie, while visiting the area of County Antrim, could not find where William John McMullen was buried. It is believed there were more brothers and sisters of Annie, possibly up to nine, but, names and whereabouts are unknown.
Annie's physical attributes included a height of 5'6" or so, with auburn hair. Never to attempt to guess a lady's weight, one would say she had a presence about her-stout if you will.
Her mother Jane's height was in the 5'9" range.
After arriving in Gilman with her mother and younger brother Sammy, who was born April 10, 1898, they stayed with Annie's sister Rachel and brother-in-law, Robert Thompson, in Gilman, Iowa.
Prior to her marriage to Thomas A. Laverty in February 1910, she worked for families in the area as domestic help. While working for a family north of Newburg, Iowa, by the name of Parker, she was being courted by T. A. They had previously met at an Irish get-together. It has been told by Alan Laverty, grandson of Annie and T. A., that he would ride a railroad hand car to visit her.
Subsequently, they were married on February 10, 1910, in Marshalltown, Iowa. From the marriage certificate, it is not known where they were married. The minister shown on the certificate, James Rayburn, was the Presbyterian minister. The church is still across from the courthouse. The witness, John Coleman, may have been Tillie Laverty's (T. A.'s sister) boyfriend at the time. Only speculation. Aunt Tillie never married.
Two discrepancies on the certificate were: 1) In one place it shows- joined in marriage- Thomas "M". Laverty. 2) Thomas A. Laverty's age shown as 40. According to birth records, he would have been closer to 44.
They settled approxametly 2 1'2 to 3 miles south of Laurel. They lived in the same house on the west side of highway 14 until Annie moved to Laurel in 1954. The farm was owned originally by T. A's father, Thomas M. Laverty. They had four sons, Thomas L., John, Paul, and one son who died at infancy.
There are several personal observations worth noting about Annie Mc Mullen Laverty. She could write and read but couldn't print. She loved to read, especially Kitchen Klatter, and listened to Aunt Leanna Driftmeir for years on radio.
She didn't drive so T. A. had to drive her everywhere. This was common for the time. He was known to wait for her during nice weather outside a local tavern and give children coins for ice-cream, as grand-daughter, Doris, recalls. He was known for his generosity.
She loved to cook. She probably wouldn't be remembered as a gourmet cook, but, all her meals would include different kinds of potatoes, lot of meat, her orange salad, and two or three kinds of vegetables, plus pies and cakes. Then at four o'clock, as tradition, it was time for tea and more cakes and pies. Also, for many February birthdays, it was oyster soup. This grandson will always be grateful to her for introducing me to this wonderful soup and my love for most seafood to this day.
She had a great sense of humor and always a smile. She enjoyed dressing up, especially for church for which she was heavily involved. She was a generous person, as was T. A. She also enjoyed shopping and was known to shop the "bargains" and sidewalk sales in Marshalltown in the summer. This would give her a jump on the many grandchildren that she had to shop for before Christmas. If one grandchild received mittens, all received mittens.
And speaking of grandchildren, she loved her family. Along with most holidays and birthdays, most Christmas Eves were spent there. In addition, at least every other Sunday was spent at Grandma and Grandpa Laverty's.
Directly from her obituary, she was an active member of the Laurel Methodist Church, WSCS (Women's Society of Christian Service), Dorcas class, Onyx Chapter No. 350 of the Order of Eastern Star of Gilman, a chapter member of the Fairview Grange and the Laurel Ladies' Club. She was also an avid quilter and was one of her fondest passions.
After T. A. passed away in 1950, she lived on the farm four years before moving to Laurel, across the street, immediately south of the Methodist Church facing highway 14. The home had been owned by Pat Laverty. She passed away after a stroke in 1958. She was a remarkable lady.
She received her education in Ireland, probably Ballymena, and was a member of the Wellington Presbyterian Church there and later transferred membership to the Laurel Methodist Church.
It is also noted that while going to work at the linen mills, she broke her nose after falling off a bicycle. Also, she probably became the sole bread winner after her father died, as most other family members had already come to America, or as with Sammy, her younger brother, was too young. In 1994, Doris Laverty Eddy, oldest grand-daughter of Annie, while visiting the area of County Antrim, could not find where William John McMullen was buried. It is believed there were more brothers and sisters of Annie, possibly up to nine, but, names and whereabouts are unknown.
Annie's physical attributes included a height of 5'6" or so, with auburn hair. Never to attempt to guess a lady's weight, one would say she had a presence about her-stout if you will.
Her mother Jane's height was in the 5'9" range.
After arriving in Gilman with her mother and younger brother Sammy, who was born April 10, 1898, they stayed with Annie's sister Rachel and brother-in-law, Robert Thompson, in Gilman, Iowa.
Prior to her marriage to Thomas A. Laverty in February 1910, she worked for families in the area as domestic help. While working for a family north of Newburg, Iowa, by the name of Parker, she was being courted by T. A. They had previously met at an Irish get-together. It has been told by Alan Laverty, grandson of Annie and T. A., that he would ride a railroad hand car to visit her.
Subsequently, they were married on February 10, 1910, in Marshalltown, Iowa. From the marriage certificate, it is not known where they were married. The minister shown on the certificate, James Rayburn, was the Presbyterian minister. The church is still across from the courthouse. The witness, John Coleman, may have been Tillie Laverty's (T. A.'s sister) boyfriend at the time. Only speculation. Aunt Tillie never married.
Two discrepancies on the certificate were: 1) In one place it shows- joined in marriage- Thomas "M". Laverty. 2) Thomas A. Laverty's age shown as 40. According to birth records, he would have been closer to 44.
They settled approxametly 2 1'2 to 3 miles south of Laurel. They lived in the same house on the west side of highway 14 until Annie moved to Laurel in 1954. The farm was owned originally by T. A's father, Thomas M. Laverty. They had four sons, Thomas L., John, Paul, and one son who died at infancy.
There are several personal observations worth noting about Annie Mc Mullen Laverty. She could write and read but couldn't print. She loved to read, especially Kitchen Klatter, and listened to Aunt Leanna Driftmeir for years on radio.
She didn't drive so T. A. had to drive her everywhere. This was common for the time. He was known to wait for her during nice weather outside a local tavern and give children coins for ice-cream, as grand-daughter, Doris, recalls. He was known for his generosity.
She loved to cook. She probably wouldn't be remembered as a gourmet cook, but, all her meals would include different kinds of potatoes, lot of meat, her orange salad, and two or three kinds of vegetables, plus pies and cakes. Then at four o'clock, as tradition, it was time for tea and more cakes and pies. Also, for many February birthdays, it was oyster soup. This grandson will always be grateful to her for introducing me to this wonderful soup and my love for most seafood to this day.
She had a great sense of humor and always a smile. She enjoyed dressing up, especially for church for which she was heavily involved. She was a generous person, as was T. A. She also enjoyed shopping and was known to shop the "bargains" and sidewalk sales in Marshalltown in the summer. This would give her a jump on the many grandchildren that she had to shop for before Christmas. If one grandchild received mittens, all received mittens.
And speaking of grandchildren, she loved her family. Along with most holidays and birthdays, most Christmas Eves were spent there. In addition, at least every other Sunday was spent at Grandma and Grandpa Laverty's.
Directly from her obituary, she was an active member of the Laurel Methodist Church, WSCS (Women's Society of Christian Service), Dorcas class, Onyx Chapter No. 350 of the Order of Eastern Star of Gilman, a chapter member of the Fairview Grange and the Laurel Ladies' Club. She was also an avid quilter and was one of her fondest passions.
After T. A. passed away in 1950, she lived on the farm four years before moving to Laurel, across the street, immediately south of the Methodist Church facing highway 14. The home had been owned by Pat Laverty. She passed away after a stroke in 1958. She was a remarkable lady.
Friday, October 17, 2014
ARRIVAL IN AMERICA-ON HER BIRTHDAY & NEW YEAR!
The most exciting journey of distance in Annie McMullen Laverty's lifetime would begin in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, born in Galgorm and grew up in and around Ahoghill and Ballymena, and take her nearly 3820 miles to a small town of Gilman in the Great Plains, state of Iowa and to another county, this one called Marshall. She would at last make it to America.
Like millions of immigrants coming to America during the 1800's and early 1900's, the trip was not without a price. Her father, William John McMullen, had died from pneumonia after walking to town to see about papers for a son who came to America. This was prior to Annie's departure. He was buried near Ahoghill or Ballymena where the family lived. His date of his passing and birth date are not clearly documented at this writing.
It is also not clearly known as to the reason for her departure to the United States, but, her older sister, Rachel Thompson, was living in Gilman, Iowa and the draw to this "land of opportunity" was always strong from people around the world. Despite the fact that the potato famine is usually given for most Irish immigrants leaving to come to America, the conditions there, especially economic and political, were never ideal for centuries.
The decision to leave had to be one of difficulty, leaving family members. friends, home, community and the beauty of the country. There had to be fear and doubt, even though letters from her sister probably were very encouraging. The unknown can always be a little frightening.
But, when the decision was made, she, her mother Jane, and younger brother Sammy, age10, (sponsored by her brother James) left from Liverpool, England, on December, 21, 1907, on the S.S. Cyemric and arrived in Boston, Massachusetts, on January, 1, 1908.
The trip over had to be extremely stressful as it is known from Annie that their accommodations were in the lower portion, "steerage," of the ship. It can only be speculated as to the less than ideal conditions of such travel by most poorer immigrants, together with hundreds of other individuals and livestock. By standards of today, one cannot imagine. Their
arrival on the New Year, plus arriving safe after a week "down below" had to be utter ecstasy.
We can only assume they came to Iowa from arrival by train. Anyone who has driven from Iowa to the east coast can only imagine what their thoughts must have been. Over a thousand miles of sheer beauty. Then to have been at the train depot when, it is assumed, her sister, Rachel, met them. A family reunion oh so special!
Before continuing with the journey, it's time to go back to the beginning a bit. Annie McMullen (no middle name) was born December, 31, 1883. Worth noting is the added significance of arriving in this country on or so close to her birthday and the New Year had to be special.
----to be continued
Like millions of immigrants coming to America during the 1800's and early 1900's, the trip was not without a price. Her father, William John McMullen, had died from pneumonia after walking to town to see about papers for a son who came to America. This was prior to Annie's departure. He was buried near Ahoghill or Ballymena where the family lived. His date of his passing and birth date are not clearly documented at this writing.
It is also not clearly known as to the reason for her departure to the United States, but, her older sister, Rachel Thompson, was living in Gilman, Iowa and the draw to this "land of opportunity" was always strong from people around the world. Despite the fact that the potato famine is usually given for most Irish immigrants leaving to come to America, the conditions there, especially economic and political, were never ideal for centuries.
The decision to leave had to be one of difficulty, leaving family members. friends, home, community and the beauty of the country. There had to be fear and doubt, even though letters from her sister probably were very encouraging. The unknown can always be a little frightening.
But, when the decision was made, she, her mother Jane, and younger brother Sammy, age10, (sponsored by her brother James) left from Liverpool, England, on December, 21, 1907, on the S.S. Cyemric and arrived in Boston, Massachusetts, on January, 1, 1908.
The trip over had to be extremely stressful as it is known from Annie that their accommodations were in the lower portion, "steerage," of the ship. It can only be speculated as to the less than ideal conditions of such travel by most poorer immigrants, together with hundreds of other individuals and livestock. By standards of today, one cannot imagine. Their
arrival on the New Year, plus arriving safe after a week "down below" had to be utter ecstasy.
We can only assume they came to Iowa from arrival by train. Anyone who has driven from Iowa to the east coast can only imagine what their thoughts must have been. Over a thousand miles of sheer beauty. Then to have been at the train depot when, it is assumed, her sister, Rachel, met them. A family reunion oh so special!
Before continuing with the journey, it's time to go back to the beginning a bit. Annie McMullen (no middle name) was born December, 31, 1883. Worth noting is the added significance of arriving in this country on or so close to her birthday and the New Year had to be special.
----to be continued
BREAKFAST IN THE TWILIGHT ZONE!
It was a day or two after New Year's, 1980. My ex-wife, May, and I were returning home from visiting friends in the Los Angeles area and attending the Rose Bowl game and the Rose Bowl Parade. (Ohio State vs. USC) Another story for another day.
We had just been up through the Redwood Forest northwest of L.A. and stayed the night west of the desert headed for Las Vegas. That morning, before heading across, it was time to do one of my favorite traveling duties-finding a good restaurant for breakfast.
It was like an episode out of The Twilight Zone. I first turned down a small diner with lots of pickups in front. It didn't feel right for some reason with our Japanese Mazda RX-7. We moved on a few miles and spotted an interesting looking place with no one in sight. It just called to me. Don't ask me why.
Once inside, it was spotless with its small tables and checkered tablecloths. You could tell it hadn't been open very long. The waitress came over and took our order. As usual, I was hungry and ready to enjoy this joyous meal. Eggs sunny-side up, toast, bacon, and a side of pancakes and coffee. Oh my!
When the waitress brought the "check," it was extremely low. As I remember, it was around $5.00 for it all. Even by 1980 standards, it was low. I left a large tip! Maybe I hadn't lost my touch in spotting good places to eat. Or possibly, we did go through The Twilight Zone.
We had just been up through the Redwood Forest northwest of L.A. and stayed the night west of the desert headed for Las Vegas. That morning, before heading across, it was time to do one of my favorite traveling duties-finding a good restaurant for breakfast.
It was like an episode out of The Twilight Zone. I first turned down a small diner with lots of pickups in front. It didn't feel right for some reason with our Japanese Mazda RX-7. We moved on a few miles and spotted an interesting looking place with no one in sight. It just called to me. Don't ask me why.
Once inside, it was spotless with its small tables and checkered tablecloths. You could tell it hadn't been open very long. The waitress came over and took our order. As usual, I was hungry and ready to enjoy this joyous meal. Eggs sunny-side up, toast, bacon, and a side of pancakes and coffee. Oh my!
When the waitress brought the "check," it was extremely low. As I remember, it was around $5.00 for it all. Even by 1980 standards, it was low. I left a large tip! Maybe I hadn't lost my touch in spotting good places to eat. Or possibly, we did go through The Twilight Zone.
Thursday, October 16, 2014
RAINY DAY AT THE AMUSEMENT PARK
This past Monday and Tuesday(October 13th and 14th) were unusually rainy, cool, and windy. Tuesday I stayed home and just loafed. It was a great feeling to just feel all cozy and doing pretty nothing much while the bad weather raged on the outside. I've always enjoyed these kind of days. I guess we all do when we can take advantage of them. One such day was experienced years ago.
For a short time after college days at Drake University, my first wife, Sandi, stayed in touch with a few of our friends that became close living at the married student dormitory-Ross Hall, on the northeast corner of 32nd Street and University.
This particular time, we stayed with some friends, Barb and Gary Bowers, whose parents owned a cottage near Arnold's Park at Lake Okaboji, Iowa. The cabin sat right next to the rollercoaster. I remember sleeping upstairs and that coaster sounded like it was coming right through the place.
The following day it was raining lightly which was Labor Day. As we walked around the amusement park there weren't many people due to the weather and the last official day of the season. A sort of sadness or more like a peaceful feeling came over me. Cozy like again!
I experienced that same feeling once again at the Iowa State Fair while attending it on a rainy day. It was so peaceful to just sit on the Grand Concourse under a canopy having a cup of coffee, eating a Dutch Letter and just watching the people go by.
Maybe we need the occasional rainy day or snow storm to just relax and reflect! It doesn't hurt a thing.
For a short time after college days at Drake University, my first wife, Sandi, stayed in touch with a few of our friends that became close living at the married student dormitory-Ross Hall, on the northeast corner of 32nd Street and University.
This particular time, we stayed with some friends, Barb and Gary Bowers, whose parents owned a cottage near Arnold's Park at Lake Okaboji, Iowa. The cabin sat right next to the rollercoaster. I remember sleeping upstairs and that coaster sounded like it was coming right through the place.
The following day it was raining lightly which was Labor Day. As we walked around the amusement park there weren't many people due to the weather and the last official day of the season. A sort of sadness or more like a peaceful feeling came over me. Cozy like again!
I experienced that same feeling once again at the Iowa State Fair while attending it on a rainy day. It was so peaceful to just sit on the Grand Concourse under a canopy having a cup of coffee, eating a Dutch Letter and just watching the people go by.
Maybe we need the occasional rainy day or snow storm to just relax and reflect! It doesn't hurt a thing.
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