Miss Margaret Writes a Letter

Miss Margaret Sanders was a close friend of  Belle and Will. I don't know how they came to be acquainted but when they ventured into managing a restaurant on Main St. in Butler, she took on the role of cook. She made her way into the hearts of their family and was a part of their lives for many years. 

Apparently Uncle 'Babe' traveled to Butler from Oregon in the late teens or early twenties and the following letter written in 1922 was a result of that visit.

Note the formality - Mr. Barnett, Dear Sir:

Note on this page she uses my dad Ralph's nickname. I had forgotten the second half 'Petey Dink' :)  

And that hint of hope that the letter would not be tossed; and oh the romance in the phrase - 'yours until the Eskimo's wear B.V.D.s'---too funny.

Pittsburgh PA

Aug 29-22

Mr. Barnett,

            Dear Sit:

                        Just a line to see what on earth has happened to you. Was up in Butler for three weeks and was out to Bell's for near one week and Bell said I ought to drop you a card to see if you were really living yet or not.

The youngsters were all well when I was up and they still watch for Uncle Babe to come back. The twins are just fine and Ruth said she stilled loved you five bushel. Pete Dink was in possession of the spoon when I was up there. Every time I set the table I would get their things a little mixed but it did not take them long to let me know about it.

Will was working steady when I was up there. He just got through with a job up in North Washington at Mrs. Barr's brother's.

They made $97 in their berries this year. I think that is fine. Will would like to sell and move back to town again on account of the children's schooling. William wants to go to work but Bell wants him to get a little more schooling.

Bob is my pick. He is as funny as a crutch. Poor Bob if I would say I was going to bake anything Bob would give me no peace until I made it. I made 12 pies & cakes, biscuits and goodness knows what not when I was up there. The kids said they were getting good eats when I was there.

Well Mr. Barnett I hope you won't think I am bold or forward but Will said he wished I would write to you.  Maybe you would answer and they would hear how you were. Hoping that this does not find the waist basket I am yours until the Eskimoes wear B.V.Ds

Margaret Sanders,

973 Deely St

Squirrel Hill Station

Pittsburgh Pa