Name/Title
Sarah Wells Mahogany (Tea Caddy) Box from Louise Terbell Libenow (also see # 010035)Entry/Object ID
102033Tags
William Bull and Sarah Wells Stone House AssociationScope and Content
Letter to Robert M Jackson concerning a family heirloom box to be donated to the William Bull and Sarah Wells Stone House Association
First hand written letter transcription
This is a fascinating piece of family history! The handwritten postscript at the bottom of the letter is much more personal than the typed portion, detailing some sensitive family dynamics.
Here is the transcription of the handwritten text:
P.S. My aunt, Hilah Bodine. Terbell, who lives at 228 East 48th St. in New York still feels so strongly about her father's divorce and remarriage that I thought it just as well not to tell her that I looked up and saw my half-uncle, James G. Turbell Jr. He, poor chap, died in January this year. He willed my brother the old grandfather clock, brought from England, that mother also talked about often. I'd appreciate it, if you ever meet Miss Terbell, if you do not mention him. There is no need to discomfort an elderly person!
Key Details Noted
Names Mentioned: Hilah B. Turbell and James G. Terbell Jr.
Family Conflict: The author is keeping a secret about a "half-uncle" to avoid upsetting an aunt who remains bitter over a past divorce and remarriage.
Heirloom: A grandfather clock brought from England was willed to the author's brother.
Second hand written letter transcription
September 27 - 1941
Ames - Iowa -
Mr. Barton W. Bull
Middletown, New York -
Dear Mr. Bull:
Your kind letter with the three clippings enclosed was waiting for me when I returned from a busy week out in the state. I am returning the clippings herewith, and also one carbon copy which I thought might be useful to you. I have also made copies for Aunt Sally as you suggested - She is pleased to have them and we both thank you for your thoughtfulness in sending the material to us.
The name and date of publication of the paper from which the clippings came I did not find on them. If you could jot it down on a post card & send it some day that would make a complete record.
We had a pleasant trip back. Much of our conversation has been about the interesting hours we spent with you & your family - Please give all of them our regards.
Very sincerely yours,
Danela Rogers
