Picturing the Past: A Letter from the Greatest Generation

Although American Indian, I have been fascinated with history, particularly the 1800's and Pioneer life. While my grandparents tended to be intensely private, I would listen with rapt attention whenever they would speak of their growing up years, hoping to visualize and bring to life what they remembered so fondly. They were, without a doubt, among the greatest generation.

The letter I'm sharing was written by my Grandmother, Celesta McRae. She, as I remember her, was a kind and gentle soul. I was told that she was a beautiful and nurturing mother; fair and just, and dearly loved by her husband, Horace (Mac) McRae.

Celesta passed away in 1987; Horace followed her home in 1990.

Even though I had been adopted, I was welcomed and proud to know these wonderful people. The simplicity in their lives and the joy they felt, even when struggling through the great depression, is a lesson I have carried with me because they endured, and not only did they endure, but they remained charitable and hospitable - cherishing family and honoring Country. Neighbors were friends that could be counted upon, and their way of life seemed harmonious and well-balanced. They had their priorities straight and it showed.

We are losing this generation at an astounding rate each day, and I doubt if the rest of us can measure up to them; the greatest.

October 25th 1982
Dear Donna - Hello!
I will try to help you with your questions. I am seventy-three years young and started school when seven in the first grade (we didn't have kindergarten then) and finished high School through the twelfth grade - all in the same school.

Now you must remember times have changed, like for instance the packaging of cereal, sugar, flour (we used to buy all that in big barrels that had covers on them) and how about cold drinks like pop that you like so well.

Now you have it so easy- (if you have enough money to pay for it). You may laugh at how we dressed- but don't forget- we didn't have it like you do now. We never knew about slacks, parkas, ski pants and snowsuits and now your "moon boots"- will wonders never cease! Your grandparents and my grandparents have made things easier for everyone and I am happy to have witnessed it.

1. The time I would get up would be about 7:30 a.m.

2. As for the clothes, that would depend upon the weather. In the winter I can remember bringing the clothes down stairs and dressing by the nice warm range that my mother used for cooking on. The clothes I brought down consisted of underwear (it had long legs and short sleeves), a petticoat- now known as a slip. The petticoat was made of flannel and had a ruffle around the bottom. We wore dresses and sweaters, long stockings and overshoes that had several buckles and warm coats.

3. For breakfast we had eggs, pancakes, toast and of course rolled oats, cream of wheat and shredded wheat that looked like a big pillow.

4. My duties before school would be to help with breakfast, and to make beds. After school I would practice my piano lessons and then I could play for a while. In the late afternoon I would set the table for dinner, help with dishes, do homework and prepare for bedtime.

5. My school was in a small town. We had a basement that had a gym and a manual training room or what you would call a woodworking room. On the main floor we had a chemistry room and classes from one to seventh grade. The second floor had classes from 8th through twelfth grade.

6. The games we played in grade school- Jack's, cricket, crack the whip and in winter cut the pie and angels.

7. Our bed time was 9 p.m.

8. What my room looked like: I had a large room I shared with my sister. I had a double bed and my sister a twin. We had a big chest of drawers and a dresser as well as a big walk in closet.

Love, Grandma

And so, despite privacy, if it weren't for some that were willing to open their memories to others, we wouldn't have history and some of these beautiful letters showing another way of life would be all but lost.