Centerburg, Ohio- Feb. 22, 1919.

 Centerburg, Ohio

Feb. 22, 1919

Dear Uncle, 

     I received your letter today.  Mr. Van Sickle gave it to me this morning.  Grandma gave it to him to bring it to me.  I sure was glad to get it.  I am all right hope you are the same. There was a letter in the Union Register long time ago telling that a companion of his was wounded whose name was John Butler Sparta Ohio.  So I wrote to him. He sure does write the longest letter to me then. Don't you get a Maryland girl. You will break Edith's heart. Raymond has a glass cab with rubber wheels.  I guess he going to put on the back of his machine.  Then I will get a ride.  

Foster wanted to take me to the basketball game Friday night. He said he would bring me home too. But Mamma wouldn't let me go. I told him I wouldn't go. Then he beg me to go all time.  He made a ring with a brown set.  He said if I'd go he'd give it to me.  Then he asked me if I wanted it. So when school was out I walked down the gravel walk with him which I do nearly every night.  I said to him that he hadn't given me that ring yet. Then he gave it to me. He said it wasn't a very nice one and would get me a better one next time.  

As we were walking down the walk Cecil Jackson fell down in the mud and got his suit mud from one end to the other.  I certainly would like to see you. and John Ogle.  I just sent a card to him.  It had a verse on it - glad to see you was the name of the verse.  Is he pretty?  I would like to know.  

That ring I got worried Orrie very much. There is a kitchen shower at Frost's tonight for Belle.  I have sent for me a new dress of changeable silk of old rose and green.  That was some picture of Woodrow Wilson.  Was you in that picture?  I don't know much more to write. I am going to be at Mildred's all summer.  I was down last Saturday.  I had to get a dinner all by myself for Ray Moorehouse.  

Well this is all I know.  This other letter is my and Floyd's that I sent to you when you was at New York.  It is stale now.  Write soon.

                                                                                            Your Niece, 

                                                                                                    Coreta

Feb.19.1919

 Feb.19.1919

Dear Johnny. 

I received your letter - found us all able to eat.  Johnny I started this on the back of this sheet of paper so thought I would open it out and write straight a cross. I have so cold in one of my eyes.  Hurts to sew or write.  I went to Sparta with a load of people from here. The Sunday school met - wanted each school to meet - they had a preacher from Howard to speak on an organization of Sunday schools.  (Our postal weight misspelled) took us on the machine. Willie said I looked to close to that man, ha, ha.  

Coreta stayed all night over home last night. Mary wants to too night.  Dada and mamma was here last Sunday.  Mamma walked over a Sat. morning. Johnny I have received two letters that I wrote to you.  I will send you one of course.  It is stail news but you can see that I did write.  I was in hopes that you would soon come home.  Can't the Dr.s doctor you have as good as down there but I suppose they know best.  You must not be starved the way you have gained in weight.  You surly have plenty to eat.You must excuse such writing. Floyd stands here gabbing and hitting the chair.  He scribbled alot on paper - wants me to read it.  I says I can't.  He says just try it but I failed.  Well we have quite an increase.  6 little lambs.  Don't you think so.  

Mrs. Keller has been very sick.  I suppose Mamma has told you about her.  Did Mamma tell you Aunt Flora has to move this spring.  I am invited to a sewing bee to morrow up at Mrs. Sears for Mrs. Hall.  She has so many children she don't know what to do.ha, ha.  Well Johnny I guess I haven't any more so I will close hoping to see or hear from you before long,

                                                                              As ever your 

                                                                                          sister Rose.

Mamma said Luella got her handkerchief.

Feb 12, 1919 - Centerburg, O.

 Centerburg, O.

Feb. 12, 1919 

Dear Uncle, 

     I received the card you sent me and was glad to get it. I also got a card from "John Ogle" the picture of the card was a girl and a soldier boy kissing each other.  He said that card was a copy of the way they was carrying on over there. He also said that he was coming home soon and would be glad to see me and tell all he knows about the affair over there. Some card.  

     Well I passed in the first examinations.  And sure am glad of it.  Well canary legs is all right.  The professor changed us students in school and now he sits in front of me all the better. Mamma says that John Ogle means business because the way he writes.  Well I was down at grandmas and seen the stuff you sent home,  That had sure is cute. I had it on - my but I looked swell.  

     Herman Taylor is married.  You will have to hurry home because all the boys you run with is getting married but you.  That sure is a fine picture of you.  Ed Chase's house burnt up.  Last Sunday night Ennice, Mary, Floyd and I were up at Truex's and Raymond was home from Bycryus.  I guess that isn't spelled right. I had on that dress that use to be Mamma's wedding dress that had beads on it. I guess they took his eye because he was always looking at me.  Because even Mary noticed that he was looking at me. 

     I don't know much to write. We have been having basket ball games.  There was one at Opera house last Friday night which Chesterville played with us and they got beat.  Monday night Marengo boys had played on a team ever since 1914 so they beat Sparta 15 to 19goals in favor of Marengo.  The boys are going to Fredrickstown Friday night.  Well I don't know of anymore to write so will close. Write soon or come home.  We all around here will be glad to see you.

Your loving niece, 

Coreta Geiger

XXXXXXXXXXXXX

Many more wait till you get home,  Edith will help me.

Feb.11.1919

 Dear brother, 

     Received your most welcome cards to day was all so nice.  Mr. Van Sickle was here when we got them.  Hew wondered why you never sent him any - said he would be willing to pay the postage if you would write to him.  He often says he would like to see you. Well Johnny how are you by this time.  That was certainly a pretty handkerchief you sent me.  Many thanks.  Floyd has a bad cold - rest are well as common.  Children are all at school.  Willie and Harley have been gathering up wood to day.  I washed yesterday - washed 97 pieces little & big.  I washed for Callie & George Kees.  Just got through in time to get dinner and now I have my ironing done.

How soon do you think you will be home?  I hope before long.  Raymond Truex is working in Bucyrus.  We heard Charley Taylors was coming back to Bloomfield.  I heard work was too steady for him.  Mildred Bell wants Coreta to stay with her next Summer.  I suppose John Ogle will be looking for Coreta about then.  Walter Carmel is home now - was at church on Sunday in his uniform.  He was straight as a stick he looked real nice. I expect you would like to get back in your old duds once more -  wouldn't you.  

I suppose Mamma has told you Edd Chase's house burned down.  They didn't scarcely save anything I haven't saw any of Willie's or Stella's for a good while so I don't know of any news.  Bert Mclueary always always  asks if I heard from you.  I don't know how to spell his name.  I guess canary legs are all right ha ha.
                          Write or come or both,
                                    Good bye,
                                                   from
                              your sister
                                                 Rose

Feb 1, 1919 - Centerburg, Ohio

Centerburg, Ohio

Feb 1, 1919

 Dear Uncle, (John, Aunt Edith)

     I received your letter to day. Well tomorrow is ground hog day. Well I was to a basketball game last night and also a Pie Social,  They have taken all the seats out of the Opera House and turned into a basket ball ground or floor.  Sparta beat Marengo the goals I guess that is what you call it. Score was twelve to twenty-sic in favor of Sparta.  Then after the game they sold the pies.  I eat with Robert Barr.  I had a coconut pie.  My but it was good.  I stayed to Easterday's all night.  Oh!  I nearly forgot I seen your wife or my Aunt yesterday afternoon and she said she got a letter from you Ha!Ha!  She was there last night but I didn't see who she ate with but I guess she didn't bring any pie.  She is saving it for you when you get back to her.Well I sure got a swell big letter from John Ogle.  He says he has a "younger brother" (illegible word).  Floyd has a real bad cold.  

I walked home this morning and Grandma came with me and Mary has went back with her. Bell Frost is married. She married a Fredrickstown guy.  Demorest Preston is back home he is at Dills.  Harold Chase's baby girl is dead. We had examinations this week they are all over and I am glad of it.  Part of them were hard.  The county schools around in this township came in and took their examination just the eighth grade.  There were fourteen.  They had to take their examination in our room so we didn't have any school Friday.

Dora Stinemetz is still calling. .  I think Ennice will cut you out.  I hope you get back in time to go to the basket ball games for school is out.  Because then they will fix the seats back in.  Don't you worry about a golden wedding for me.  Because I will see you and Edith's golden wedding first.  I bet you will not have any face when Edith and I get thru hugging and kissing you.  I expect Edith won't give me any chance.  Well I will have to close because Mamma wants to lay Floyd down on the lounge because I am sitting here.  So will close.  Write soon.

                                                                                           Your loving niece, 

                                                                                           Miss Coreta Geiger

                                                                                           XXXXXXXX

P.S. Will give you more when you get home

(written sideways along a crease between the fron an back page): I forgot to tell you that Foster tied his horse  in front and went in the store when he came out (torn section) the window and he waved and told me to (torn section) t we talked for quite awhile I guess we are both trying to get Hulse's.  Hulse are bust! Begin reading in last page. This is some letter.  My pen ran out of ink.

Dec, 14, 1918 - Centerburg, O.

 Centerburg, O.

Dec. 14, 1918

Dear Uncle, 

     I thought I would write you a few lines it won't be long till the mail will  go out. I wrote a letter to Pri. John Ogle he said that he had a companion John Butler from Sparta which was wounded is that so and do you know him?  Well I have been going to school.  I have not had the mumps yet.  I guess I am mump proof.  I stayed all night Thursday night with grandma.  We was over at Mack's that night.  I don't expect you can read this.  Your picture was certainly swell.  Everybody is calling me that when you come home you will not know me for have grown so much and am getting fatter.  Gertrude and Ashton are married. You and Edith will be the next one when you come back.  The town of Homer partly burned.  That is where Rev. Louis lives.  Well you had ought to see prof. Mason shake Emerald Taylor up Friday for chewing gum in time of school.  Two more days till Mary's birthday.  Well I have my studies to get and portions to make and finishing Whispering Smith have you ever read it. Certainly is good. Well I guess this is all that I can think of now.  I will have to get to work. So will close.  Answer soon as possible because I would certainly be glad to get a letter from you.

                                                                            Good bye

                                              XXXXXXX          Coreta Geiger

S w e e t  L i p s   

without mustache but also with it        

Nov. 23, 2018 - Bloomfield, Ohio

 Bloomfield, Ohio

Nov 23, 1918

Dear Uncle, 

     I have not heard from you for a long time.  So I thought that I would write you a few lines.  Well, it is cold here and has been freezing here.  John Mahan has the "flu" and took sick at school and exposed us all. The rest of the people that had the "flu" is all right now.

     The store at Sparta was bought by Newell Jenkins and Harry Barr.  Mrs. Rush is better now.  The Citizen office is where Bill Pearl lived.  The Bell office is where Dell Coon lives.  They or the people are cleaning the place off where Mack's off.  Marjorie found two of hernickles which was in her bank and had went through the fire. And I understood that she found one of the checks that you had put in there before you went to camp.  I mean the checks that you got from the restaurant. Pearl Harrod found where their house burnt down a china cup which had set in a glass desk the desk had melt on the cup and the cup wasn't broke or damaged in any way.

     Well I haven't had the mumps yet.  But don't expect that I will get to go to school Monday on the account of the "flu".  I have went one week since the school open.  It may be so  that they will close it again.  I stayed last Tuesday night at grandma's. I have Orie Hall's stick pin. He is going to school now. He sits across from me in the wagon. Ennice is down at Jays. Bill and papa is over at the store. Floyd just went to asleep setting on a chair. I think I shall go to bed pretty soon.  It is about 7:30 but I am sleepy.  Mamma said for you to send her a piece of the Kaiser for her birthday.  Well it soon will be Thanksgiving.  If there is school, we will have one day off for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years. Well I guess I will finished this letter tomorrow. 

     Will this 10 o'clock this morning I just got through changing my dress.  I wrote a note to Mrs. Pierce about the Yoke I crocheted her. I didn't go to Sunday school this morning.  I don't know much to write.  I will have to finish this this afternoon.

     Mamma just got through writing a letter to Mrs. Rinehart.  Ennice stayed all night down to Bell's and just came home.  Ennice has been carrying on high down there. He has been taking things, telling lies and also talking about us here at home. They tell me everything he does. Well I didn't get to finish this letter Sunday afternoon. So I will finish it this evening after school.

     I went up to Hall yesterday afternoon and lost Mary's ring so I will have to sent to Sears Roebuck and Co and get her one.  I went to church last night so I didn't get to write this.  I have a new pair of shoes which I bought off grandma.  So I have two good pair.  Well I don't know much to write so I guess I will close because supper is about ready and I have my lesson to get.  So I will close.  Write soon as possible.  Closed with love for you. 

Your loving niece, 

Miss Coreta Geiger

OXOXOXOXOXOX

Dear Brother, 

     How are you this beautiful morning.  I am not much good still have bowel trouble. The rest are all well. Floyd is getting broad as he long. He has been real well for him ever since we moved here.  I think the fresh country air is what has helped him.  Ennice and Coreta went to school last week. I was afraid to send Mary on the account of the mumps.  

     Willie husked corn yesterday it was real cold.  Mr. Van Sickle said he didn't have to husk when it was so cold.  What are you doing now days.  Do you keep well.  Why don't you write.  We all want to hear from you so bad.  I wish you was here for dinner. We are going to have a huge back bone. What do you think eggs are here.  We get 60 cent a dozen, butter 50 cent lb.  Well have you got your girl picked out yet?  Or are you going to wait until you come back to Marrow Co.  ha ha . 

     I will have to stop and get dinner.  I haven't been any where to hear  any news so I will close.  Coreta said I could write in her letter so I thought you would like o see my scratches.

                                       Well good bye.

                                                  My baby brother.

                                                            From your sister

                                                                     Rose

Nov.17.1918

My dear brother.

How are you to night. Floyd took the mumps last Sunday then on Tuesday Mary she took them.  Mary's jaws are still swollen very bad but she doesn't suffer any now.  I don't know if Coreta, Ennice and I are going to get them or not.

Well we are so thankful that this cruel war is over.  It was certainly God's work or we wouldn't have gained victory.  How soon will you boys get to come home?  Oh, there will be nothing too good for our Soldier boys when they come marching home.  I will be so glad when you do get back - especially for poor mamma's sake.  You have never been off her mind I guess day or night.

You won't know Sparta when you get back.  My it does look strange up there.  They are going to put Citizen phone central in that house Alvin Pearl use to own. Bell phone in Dell Coon's house.

Well, Johnny, I want you to come and help us eat some pork.  We have our butchering done - hog weighed about 200 lbs. I had about gallons of lard and nearly 1 1/2 gallons of sausage.  We sold our poultry that we raised this summer.  I had over $42 for my share beside what we ate this summer.  I saved out a duck to eat. Well do you know whose birthday comes the last of this month. ha ha.  38 this month and been kissed lots of times.

Willie hasn't got his corn quite all husked yet.  Mr. Vansickle has been very sick so he is just out around now helped to butcher and helped to catch the chickens.  Coreta was to Mildred Bells 4 1/2 weeks.  So we heard school begins tomorrow, but we don't know for sure.  Johnny, why don't you write us a big letter and let us know if you ever receive our letters. 

Mamma said young M.H. Kaufman had influenza.  Minnie then had it too.  But we don't know how they are now.  Sarah Reed & husband and kid moved to Akron.  He gets $140 a month right in the start.  Well I can't think of any more so I will close.

Good bye from your sister,
Rose Shepard

Write when you can.

October 28, 1918

Oct.28.1918

               Dear brother,

                                    How are you getting along by this time. I have been writing every Sunday untill yesterday. We had company for dinner.  Mr. Wm. Vail furnished a chicken so I got dinner for him. Willie, Luella, John Wesley and Donald came over in the after-noon awhile.  Hall's children came down in the afternoon stayed quite a while in the evening so you see I didn't have much chance to write.  

I suppose mamma has told you Rella had sold out to Rob Snow.  What do you think of that.  Rella has bought that place George Davis used to own.  If I had been Stella I would hated to part with it.  They had it fixed up so nice.  Willie's received his questionnaire to day.  It is hard to tell how it will turn out.  

Dr. Larimore goes this Wednesday as a War Dr.  I don't know how we will get along. Well Johnny, I have got it in my side as bad as ever.  Can't get any more of my medicine.  Bert Rush has the Fluenza not able to be in the store so I don't know when they will send for any more.  The druggist wife over at Centerburg is at the point of death with that disease too so we don't want to go there after it. 

I haven't been home for over 4 wks.  I don't like to go to Sparta.  Dell Mitchell has influenzy.  It is so contagious.  Van Sickle's children have the mumps so has Ethel Kenney.  We are exposed to them, but haven't got them yet.  Mamma walked over here Tue. morning.  We got weighed.  Mamma weighed 116 and I 115.  Don't you think we are going some for two ladies ha.ha.

Floyd is well.  The rest are all well.  Coreta went back to Mildred Bell's last night.  It will make her two wks and a half if she stays all wk this wk.  Willie is hauling us some wood to day.  We have been having nice weather. Rained last night and this morning.  Quit raining and turned quite a bit cooler.  We got 50 cent a dozen for eggs last wk, but I'm afraid I won't have a dozen to sell this wk.

Will close.  Hoping to hear from you soon.

                                                                                 From your sister Rose

xxxxxxxx

Tomorrow Willie and I will be married 5 years.

Somewhere in Bloomfield 30-Sep-1918

Somewhere in Bloomfield

September 30, 1918

Dear Uncle, 

  

          I received your card and sure was glad to hear from you.  I couldn't read what was on the other side.  Write and explain. 

          Well I was at the Morrow County Fair.  I went with Mr. Van Sickles  He paid my way in. I stayed all night at their house Wednesday night and went o the fair Thursday and stayed there Thursday night and came home Friday morning. I seen Ross Turner and John Gulauf and several others.  There were a lot of gypsies or fortune tellers on the grounds.  There were two young girls that called some boys up at their tent.  They called the boys "sweet lips".  Now if you had a been there, they would have called you "sweet lips".   There was a girl and woman run over with a buggy and horse.  They were taken away in an ambulance.  We heard afterward that they died. I seen them after it was done.

           Miss Sprague has given up her room because there were so many new ones from Bloomfield and didn't give her enough pay.  Mr. Langstaff, the grammar room teacher, went home to Richwood Wednesday night and brought home a young girl which is the girl he goes with.  Her name is miss Skouts,  She is very pretty.  He waits for her after school and carries her books and goes to Mason's where they board.

           Well this is the last day of September. Grandma was here Saturday. We had Hall's Ouija board.  We asked it where you were. It said France. Then we asked it where at in France.  It said Revelley.  I was up at Hall's Sunday afternoon.  They had company from Akron.  Orie & Ennice went down to Hubble's.  The men teased me about Orie all the time.  So when he came home they took Orie's and my picture.  He is going to send one to Orie and me.  

          We have a dandy organ now. When you come home you will have to play for us.  Well we have some new preacher.  He is an old man and had four grown up children.  Mamma and Ennice are shelling beans.  Mary is washing dishes.  I will have to wipe them.  Mabel Rathburn is married.  She was married Thursday at Mt. Gilead.  Charley Gardner is at Camp Sherman.  Floyd is playing with some roadted sweet corn.  

         Pearl Harrod told me that there were lots of girls working in a factory.  One of the girls said her finger hurt so she spoke of it every little bit.  The rest thought maybe it was catching so they reported it to the head man.  He told her to come to him for him to examine her finger.  She didn't want to go, but he made her and there was a large needle in the side of her finger which she punctured every gas mask and spoilt them.  I don't know how true this was.  

          Well, I will have to close to get my lessons.  Write soon.

           xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx                                                                  Good bye

           Many more times I can't even express in words.                          Coreta

Sans peur et sans merci

Familier mons pays!

What is this?

Somewhere in the heart of Bloomfield.....Coreta Geiger

Centerburg, Ohio.

Sept. 21, 1918

Dear Uncle,

              We received your letter today and was sure glad to hear from you.  Well I am fifteen now.  I expect you will bring a French girl home with you.  School is going on just fine.  I like the professor Mason just fine. Mr. Langstaff the Grammar room teacher is our English teacher.  He chews chewing gum all the time. Then sticks it along the side of the desk.  The Grammar room girls told Mick Harrod.  He said if there were anymore on the desk, he would tell Mason.

               We have a basketball game.  Mr. Langstaff has had his nose broke twice and one or two fingers broke.  Well this is Monday evening.  My fountain pen is run out of ink and my ink is at school.  I've got a letter from Zulauf, he is in France.  He says the French have brown bread and lots of good stuff to eat.  We kids ride in a large wagon which has a row of seats on each side, two little windows in front and two behind and also a door.

               I stayed at grandma's last night.  Ruth and Jeanette were over here yesterday.  Well Saturday I took the pony and the buggy that we use and got Ruth and Jeannette and Jeanette stayed with Mary while Ruth and I went to Centerburg. When we got back, Jeannette wanted to stay all night so she went and called up her mother and she said she could so we went up to Hall's Saturday night. We played reaching for a song book. They blindfolded my eyes and tied my wrists together and told me to reach high for the song boo, then Orie slipped under my arms and someone pulled my arms down and I had my arms around his neck when they took the rag off my eyes.
               So Sunday Ruth came down and we went to Sunday School. In the after noon we went over to  the chestnut trees but there was not enough frost Saturday night to do any good. Then Eunice went up after Orie and the Ouija board. We asked it lot of questions and it sure did spell them out to answer them.  Asked it how old I was and it went to fifteen.
                Harold Hancook was on a furlow and they had a large dinner which he didn't know about. They were  his relatives. Then at night they had a party for him which the girls were to invite their partners.  I wasn't invited because I guess I had gone on the wagon for she or Florence saw me but I couldn't went anyhow.  Ruth couldn't go either.
               Conard Birch is on an eighteen day furlow.  Alice Boyd has the mumps. Taylors are moving to Mt. Vernon. Wallie Sears is sick and the Doctor Huggins don't know what it is.  He said it was or he thought it was Typhoid fever or Spinal something and also another large name.  But he sent some of his blood to be analyzed.  Mrs. Knoff has the Typhoid fever.  I may go to the Morrow County Fair Thursday or Friday but I don't know for sure, I haven't anything of your "dear little Edith" for a long time. We heard that Mr. Warner is across. Sent me some French words.
                Well I guess I will have to close so as to clean my white shoes tonight for school tomorrow.  It is early 7:30 now.  Well John McCormick has moved on the Joe Easterday place.  I guess school is going on so far pretty well.  Write soon as you can.  We sure are glad to hear from you.  I guess I can't think of any more. Will close.
                                                                                  Good bye                         S.W.A.K.
                                                                                       Coreta Geiger
xxxx many more but can't express on paper

Well I am fifteen going on sweet sixteen but never been kissed.  Ha! Ha!

This is some gum I am sending you. Write and tell me if you got it.

To Johnny From Rose - September 15, 1918

Sept.15.1918.

Dear Johnny,

          How are you by this time?  I have the headache this morning. Coreta has a bad sore throat had to go to the Dr.  I took Floyd to the Dr. last night.  He has been having a sore throat and bowel trouble.  The Dr. said it was an epidemic going around.  He said he never saw so much of it. But we are able to eat three times a day.  Mary & Floyd are over at the church.  Coreta just came home.  Our kids are hauled to Sparta school.  Couldn't get a teacher so they hired Mr. Eroz to haul them to Sparta.

           Mamma came over with the children Fri.  evening stayed until Sat. eve.  We took her home last night.  I didn't go to the house for dada had gone to bed.  Jimmie Huntsman is a papa, but I don't suppose Mamma told you all the news. 

            Well we have the silo filled.  I don't remember if I told you or not.  Got our piece of wheat sowed, that over there at Harley's got some corn cut.  We got 38 cents a doz for eggs, 40 cents a lb for butter, but potatoes are three dollars a bushel, sweet ones are 8 cents a lb.  Johnny, I cant remember what I write from one time to the next.  Did I tell you Willie's sister Hattie & Husband, Jacks's sister and their children and Sylvia & Rob was all here last Sunday for dinner?  Looked about like thrashers.  On Saturday before we had 14 men for dinner beside Mr. Van Sickles family and we had over the silo fillers.  Next will be clover hullers and corn shredders.  Maybe that will be all.

             Harley wants us to stay next year but it is hard telling what will happen before our year is out.  Myrtle Wells went to Mt. Vernon yesterday and bought herself a piano.  I expect we will have lots of music now - don't you?  Myrtle's beau had to go to Camp Sherman.  She seemed to feel pretty bad.

              Johnny, there is four of Halls children Taylors two are here so you can imagine how it sounds around here.  Mr. VanSickle and part of the family attend the State Fair.  He is talking of taking us to the Mt. Gilead fair. It commences the 23rd to the 27th.  I think that is the date.  Robs want us to go with them to Coshocton Fair. I don't know if we will go or not.

               Well I can't think of any more so will close.  With love to my brother.  Write if you can. From your sister. Rose.

Bloomfield Ohio Sept. 2.1918

Bloomfield O

Sept.2.1918.

                           Dear brother:-

            How are you by this time.  We are all able to be around as dada use to say. Well this is the third letter I have written to you since I received your card so I will expect to hear from you some of these days.  How do you like the new home or country.  I expect you see some pretty girls.  They always claim the French girls are handsome.  School began yesterday over at Sparta.  Hasn't commenced here haven't any teacher.  They are talking of hauling them to Sparta.

            Did you know a man by the name of Blaine Page?  He was killed by the cars today.  He was in an auto.  Floyd talks so much about you.  He has been real well for him this summer.  Had a spell with his stomach and bowels, but is better now.  Ennice is down to Jay Bells today.  Mary & Floyd are over at Taylors.  Coreta is at school.  Willie is out at the farm.

             Did you get sick on the water?  The thought of the water is enough for me.  All of the men from 18 to 45 or 60  has to register the 12 of this month.  Aunt Flora sent Mamma the prettiest service flag.  She said you didn't think enough of your only aunt to send her a card.  I suppose Mamma told you.  Dada & Mamma are over to Mt. Liberty this wk.  Coreta was at Mt. Liberty nearly a wk.  Luella brought her home and stayed for dinner.  Truex's have their home up for sale.  I don't know where they want to go.  John Reid said their place was for sale.  Mamma, the children and I all went down to Anna Reeds for dinner last Thursday.  Had a fine chicken dinner.

              Willie just came in said we had a fresh cow out here.  I ask him what we would have for supper said we could have new milk.  I am glad I don't like milk. ha,ha  Harleys are all well as common.  Mrs. Van Sickle has been real poorly, but is better now.  What do you suppose rubber boots are worth now days?  Willie and Ennice each got them a pair.  Had to pay $5.50 a piece.  I got a new skirt cost $6.50.  

                Well I can't think of any more so I will close.  Hoping to hear from you.

                                                                                             Your Sister,

                                                                                                        Rose

                                                                                                  love to Johnny.

May God bless you and bring you safe home again.

From Rose - Aug 20, 1918

Aug 20, 1918

        "     21,        

                To my dear brother,

        How are you by this time?  I do hope you keep well.  And how are you getting along?  It seems so long since you wrote to me but such is life. This is the second letter I have wrote to you but I suppose you haven't received the other one yet. Well I suppose they are going to make more enlist all now between 18-45 so that will catch lots more of our boys and husbands.

       Well Johnny, I went to the farmer's picnic in the afternoon.  Was a very large crowd not many young men. Two soldier boys - one was a Umstead from Marengo.  The Centerburg band played they played that piece called "Over There".  I suppose you have heard that.  Umstead sang it while hey played it.  It was certainly beautiful. Saw so may people I knew.  I was talking to Minnie Hulse says she heard from Clyde right along.  He got 9 letters from home all at once.  I'll bet he was busy for awhile don't you?

       Abbott Bird died real sudden yesterday the 19th - either heart trouble or acute indigestion.  Rob and Sylvia sat up there with the dead last night.  Rob owns a Ford now - last yr model.  I don't know what he paid for it.  We are well as common. Floyd is so tanned you wouldn't know him.  Mary has hives so bad, alright other ways.  Coreta is visiting over at Mt. Liberty.  Went last Saturday eve.  Ennice is helping Jay Bell. Willie has been hauling manure.

       Our folks are well as common.They walked down to Anna Reed's yesterday.  Walked over here last Saturday.  Mr. VanSickle isn't very well - complains quite a bit.  Ober Bishop is papa again - another boy.  Named him Alonzo.  How is that for Obers?  Uncle Henry and Clarence went down to see Ray said he was looking good.  He said they was lucky to find him.  Way they talked he was going to leave there.  We are having quite a rain just now.  First for a long time.  It looks good.  Well if I could talk to you I could say lots more.  Well good-bye

                                                                                       From your sister, Rose

Johnny, it is always on my mnd.  God will take care of you.  Write when you can.

July 21,1918

July 21 - 1918

                    My dear Brother

          I received your letter a few days ago - found us all still able to eat.  I was at church this fore-noon - saw Mary Easterday.  She said when they passed our house on over home, Willie was there today.  I haven't been there for a good while.  I wanted to go this week, but Coreta wants to go back to Mrs. Pierce's.  So I don't know when I can go. Our Sunday school had a picnic at Layon's Lake yesterday. We had a nice time.  Even Floyd was out a boat riding.  So was Coreta, Mary and Ennice.  

          Well, Johnny, if you was up around here now you could have lots of girls.  Most all of the young men are gone.  Carl Mitchel has to go on Monday - so does John Harper. Well I hope you don't have to go over the ocean. But if it has to be, trust in Jesus and all will be well. For he is the best friend we have.

          Mamma and Dada came over last week. Mamma stayed awhile.  She was here when I received your letter. Johnny, I sent to Sears Roebuck for me a coat in blue corduroy. I hope you will be here to see me wear it.  Doesn't it seem strange that you pass all examinations when you always had such poor health, but we should all be thankful that you have good health. 

          Children are well.  Floyd was proud of his card as well as the rest of us.  We haven't thrashed yet.  Don't know how soon we will. We want to go down home to Willie's folks next Sunday.  Huckleberries are ripe. Hattie said in her letter there was quite a few.  I heard Edyth received two letters from you in one day.  Lena, Ora and Clarence were here this afternoon.  They told me they had been writing to you too.  I am glad others write to you for I don't know any kind of news that would interest you.  Well I will close so

                    good-bye from your sister Rose to her soldier Bro. John.

   

From Coreta - July 7, 1918

Centerburg, Ohio

July 7, 1918

Dear Uncle,

          I just go home from Sunday School and it is a little rainy - just enough to make it dreary. I got my new pen and it is a dandy.I went to the store to get some fountain pen ink for it, but they didn't have any so I have to write with an old pen. I don't care very much for Ora any more.  A week ago today him and Clyde throwed a live owl on me.  I like my place out at Pierce's.  Maybe I will stay there and go to school.  Friday night I was down at corners.  The preacher wanted me to co come to Bloomfield with him.  Today is Jim Huggins funeral.  Yes, Jake got hit with a bottle over the forhead and it was full too. It broke. I guess his head is pretty hard.

           That was some initial quite sweet. I would like to know where you heard them. I bet that is what you put in Edith's letter. Well I guess I will have to go to dinner now. Floyd and I are here alone.  The rest have gone to the funeral.  I have a new pair of shoes and Mrs. Pierce gave me a nice pair too. My this is some writing.I wish I could write with my fountain pen. It was certainly hot here the fourth of July, but is somewhat cool today.  Well I guess this is all.

                                                               Good-bye

                                                                       Coreta Geiger

                                                                                     Centerburg

                                                                                           Ohio

                                                                       R.F.D.

                                                                                                xxxxxxxxxX

B.B.D.C.Y.S.K.

S.W.A.K.

A.P.D.2

B.B.D.C.Y.S.T.D.O.M.H.

                                     answer to to the last one with a looking glass

eyB eyB, raeD, redisnoC fleSruoY ehT gnilraD fO yM traeH

June.25.1918

Bloomfield, O.

                    Dear Bro:-       

                                          Received your card this morning was glad to hear from you.  It doesn't seem possible that you are so far away.  Ray is down in Ga.  He didn't want to go so far South. He said it isn't what w want but what we get in this life. No Johnny, I am not any better but still eat like a pig.  Stella called up Mamma this morning said they sent Arthur H. back home.  Can't do anything for his eyes.  He has to buy his own glasses.  he ones he had he can't use them.  He has to send back his uniform but I suppose he will be willing to do that.  Mamma said her dada was feeling real poorly this morning.  Coreta is home now. We had a big washing for the preacher this wk.  Carrie Corwin-Mary Gardner run off to Kentucky and got married.  

                                      Mrs. Truex said Raymond wrote you a letter.  He has been wondering why you don't answer.  I don't know if you received my last letter or not. I wrote you one and mailed it on the 17th. Got your card the 18th.  Have you had any mailed to you fromKy.  Ennice mailed you a card same day we got yours.  Floyd has gone to bed.  You wouldn't know him he is so sunburnt.  Mary is well wondered if you got your chewing gum she sent you.  Did Mamma tell you that Rob Snow sold his farm?  Melvin Gigler bought it.  They don't know where they will go.  Sylvia said they haven't heard from Carl Snow for 2 mon. Don't know where he is.  Stumps haven't heard from Homer since Mar.  

                                     Did you beller and paw when you saw so many girls like you use to when you were up around here.  Saw your sister Mrs. Gray had quite a talk with her.  Said both girls had gone back to work. I suppose they have told you Madge Pearl is married.  Well I guess this is enough for I am tired and I know you are. So good night my soldier brother and Gof bless you and keep you safe.

                                     Good-bye,

                                    Write when you can XXX

Willie is working down in the garden.  I hadn't mentioned him.

 

Centerburg, Ohio

June 25,1918

Dear Uncle,

                           I received your card and was sure glad to hear from you.  Ennice was just a yelling at Olive to give hima pece of candy, but Ennice got "stung."  Mr. Vansickle told papa that Ennice was stuck to Olive when papa wanted him.  He was as in playhouse with her.  Willie Sears and Mrs.Cero were having a fight with their mouth tonight over a watch Mrs. Taylor found.  

                           Raymond, Jim Wilcox, George Barr -  and I don't know how many more - went with Raymond in his machine to Utica and all came home drunk.  Jake Wilcox has a bandage on his head yet. They threw bottles every way. I guess Raymond couldn't run his machine home. He just went past going to Centerburg.  I guess he was in his buggy. I was at Clarence's last week and went to Liberty twice.  Once with Shirmp girls and once with Clarence to take Uncle Willie home. We went to Mt. Vernon Friday. Aunt Luella got her teeth pulled. Saturday night we cam home about half past nine. Ora was here and stayed till eleven o'clock. I wrote a letter to Louis Monday. I guess you can't read this. Ennice and mamma have been talking and teasing me. I guess mamma and the rest of them are going to get me a fountain pen for my birthday. It costs $1.50 with a gold pen and a gold place for initials.Then I can write.
                           Ora showed me Opys picture last Sunday.  Edith and Dart sang "We're bound to get the Hauser a Wk ago at Hedding.  She or Edith talks about you nearly all the time.  She said she had two soldier boys to writ to now.
                            Well I guess that's all I don't know what BBSHG.
                                                               Good bye,
                                                                           Coreta

                  

June.9.1918.

          Dear Brother, 

                         Received your dear letter was so glad to hear from you.  Was certainly a fine letter.  It's nice to hear you are feeling better.  I am still doctoring with Huggins. I have been better of that hemorrhage this last wk if it only lasts.Mamma has been with us since Tues morning until this after-noon Sun.  I will certainly miss her.  Said if she got real lonesome she would be back.   We certainly do miss you.  But such is life.  John Reed and family & Coreta came over today.  Mamma went back to Sparta with them.  Harley's horse is getting along allright.  It is still running some still quite a lump.  Harley said he would reduce it with iodine. The rest are all well as common. Willie is getting ready to do his chores so it will soon be milking time.

You got your share of duds didn't you.Anna brought Guy's last letter to read. He is still in England. Willie and I went to Sparta last evening. I saw Mr. Culver.  Said he got a card from you.  You surely do some writing.  We had strawberry shortcake for dinner.  No use to tell you what we have to eat when you have so much.  Johnny what do you think Myrtle GIlt brought me a $1.00 bill.  I was certainly surprised. Having big meetings in M.E. church at Sparta so they say.  Willie heard Irma Scott was going to clerk in Rushes Store. Sparta is full of whooping cough.  Ours haven't got it yet. How is Ray and Howard?  Tell Ray to to write to me.  Johnny did you get your stamps I sent you?  You didn't say though maybe they dropped out when you opened your letter. Did you know Chas. Catt was dead that man in Rob's place.  She is going to have a sale this week.

Well I don't know any news so I will close.  Hoping to hear from you soon or see you. How is that fussy-wussy?  HaHa.

                                     from Your sister Rose

June.7.1918

          Dear Brother Johnny, 

Well how are you by this time? We are still all able to eat three meals a day yet but I am still on the grunt. Has our folks wrote you Jim Huggins is dead has a stroke out in their closet died right away. Funeral was over here at the church this after-noon at 1 oclock.  Took him to Chesterville to bury. I got to go along with Cora Hubble and family.  I sure did enjoy the ride. Last night Coreta kept the kids and Mr. Van Sickle took his family and Willie and I to Centerburg to a picture show last night. It was a good show. Don't you think I'm going some for a grunt. 

Dada and Mother spent the fourth with us but went home that night.  Dada seems anxious for the letters as Mamma.  Johnny I don't know how you stand the heat down there when it is so hot up here.  Mr. Van Sickle wanted me to ask what kind of music you march to.  Was it the brass band or just snare drum and fife? He wanted me to ask you.  I hope the war will be over before you have to go to France.  Men folks just got through cutting wheat yesterday. I guess we can get some huckle-berries after them.  Hattie said there was going to be some. Everything else is scarce. Johnny you certainly see some sights but they are nothing compared to Bloomfield. HaHa. Ora is out here in the yard now so is Coreta too.

Well Johnny do you still bawl like the gentleman-C when you see a girl now days? Oh, you kid don't seem like you are so far away.  Well I can't think of any more so I will close.

                      

                                                                             Bye Bye

                                                                                    Dear Johnny.

                         Write when you can

                          With love from your sister Rose.

                                                                                 X X X X X   X X

                                                                                Floyd -M-C-Myself          

From Mary & Coreta. June 6, 1918

Centerburg, O.

June 6. 1918

Dear Uncle: -

       

       How are you by this time?  How is Ray & Howard?  I am just fine.  Mr. VanSickles colt soar is about all well. grandma and grandpa come over to our house the 4th and Aunt Florad & Uncle Clint& Myrtle and her two children..

       Do you have anything good to eat? Floyd went bare footed yesterday and he is crying because his feet hurts.  I will pick strawberries Friday.  John Reed and his family is coming to our house Sunday. Tell Ray to write to me if you please.  Doris Frost come over to play with me to-day.  Any more of your filling coming out of your teeth?  Why don't you get your picture and send it to us.

        Write soon.

                           Good-bye

                                From

                         Mary Geiger

                                   to

                     Soldier John Butler

Fredricktown, Ohio

R.F.D.6

June 6, 1918

Hello John, 

          I received your letter today and was glad to hear from you.  I was down to Aunt Bell's today.  She said dhe got a letter from Ray yesterday. She wants me to help her a few days while there are some men boarding there  The men are going to build a bridge there by their house.   called up Alice Hood to talk to Grandma, but she and Grandpa were over to Mamma's.  Uncle Clint & Aunt Flora, Myrtle and two children were over there too.  All of Annie's and I are going over home on Sunday.  Last Sunday I stayed here they had company their names were Springers.  Mr. Springer was in the war with the Philippines.  They live now on Tom Hood's place.  Last Saturday night Annie said Kenneth Trease went past here with a gitl beside him. And a boy and a girl in behind.  Then Sunday Mildred said he went on past their house.  The girl was running Treases machine and Kenneth had his arms around the girl and there were two girls and boys in the back seat.  Have Treases wrote to you yet?  Grandma told Mamma and Mamma told me thatshe had got my grade card and I had passed to High School. A "F r e s h m a n" next year am I!   

        I guess Edith likes you pretty well doesn't she and I'll bet you like her. Mamma said someone was inquiring about me and I asked her who it was.  She said it was Ora Hall.  He asked Ennice,  I will take your advice and Mamma's and let Kenneth Conway be. I was over to Strumps on Sunday.  Helen went to work at some stylish people in Fredricktown.  I guess she gets $5 a wk. What are you doing?  Aunt Bell said Ray was washing some dishes. They got his letters Monday,

        I have been making a shortcake. I have also been parching.  That was a dandy little picture you sent me. I wish you would have your picture taken in your uniform and send it to me. I think you are having better things to eat than we are having at home.  Strawberries are .20 a qt.  Annie got a letter from Guy.  He was well. He said his (truck?) was so large you drive a ford in backend and have plenty of room to work around it. If you can read this writing you are going somewhere.  It is getting dark and I can't hardly see. I will have to close.

        Write soon.

             Good bye

                 Coreta

B.B.U.C.Y.S.K.                                                                            S.W.A.L.X!

B.B.U.C.E.T.D.O.Y.H.                                                                 X X X X X

Make this out and send it.

P.S. Mr. Trucx was here today to buy rags..