A new obsession

Some called my Step Father a pack rat, I called him a collector. Either way when he passed away 2 years ago I was left in care of his estate which included several sealed boxes. At the time I was overwhelmed with tragedy and caring for 3 babies. So the boxes where placed into storage where they sat, until 2 months ago. While going through the unit in search of family pictures I rediscovered them. Underneath yearbooks and personal papers was a an old stationary box, filled with letters. I began opening each letter, looking for dates and familiar names. The letters were written by 3 men between 1921-1935, all proclaiming everlasting love to my Grandmother, Gladys. What a perfect box to hold letters of such passion! Some were typed, some handwritten with the most remarkable penmanship.

There are quite a few poems.

Lot's of pet names.

My Grandmother did social work before she retired to raise her children. Many letters are from the Red Cross during war times.

She was also a journalist.

And scads of telegrams. Telegrams must have been the 'texting' of that time. Some are short, just information like what time their train was due to arrive. Some more romantic in nature.

Some are really funny, check out the detailed map. Or the one below telling her about a movie.
Little interesting and silly clippings were in some.
I didn't know my Grandmother, she died in the early 70's before my parents married. But I know that none of these men were my Grandfather. The mystery deepened when I discovered one of the men would later become her husband. I am trying to sort the letters by date so I can put the pieces together. What happened to these men she cared so much for. What happened to the first husband? So far I haven't found any letters from my Grandfather! Weird. It's like a Hallmark movie or something.

Daughter finds old box of letters.

Daughter sits in dusty attic reading the letters.

Daughter discovers dark family secret....

I know by the hotel stationary that these men traveled quite a bit. The engraved letterhead is Amazing!! I buy old sheet music every chance I get just for fonts and engraving like this.

I've been lucky enough to stay at the Monteleone in New Orleans, it's a beautiful hotel. Still looks just like this.

I love this one! Sweet Hotels, sleep in comfort and safety.

Here was the object of their affection, wasn't she beautiful?