Fall 1942 - The Accident - A Letter from Ella McAdam Caufield

In October Jim and Margaret received a letter from Ella McAdam Caufield.

Envelope

By October Jim had made lots of progress and was about to be released from the hospital. 

Letter - Page 1

"Tillamook, Ore

Oct. 8 - 1942

Dear Family: -

Well your letter rested my mind, it was like waiting for a 'blessed event' waiting waiting for the day he could try his feet and the day came.  So it was a blessed event too.  We never doubted that he couldn't walk as we've seen cases whole lot worse than Jim's and even a neighbor boy's life was despaired of even and he now walks but it was a couple of years,  One leg was just as tho' it was paralyzed.  He dragged it along like it was wooden but now he bends it and walks real well.  

Joe1 says now he'll be over this week end and I hope you can come when Jim is able.  Thanks for the picture of Barbara.  It is very cute.

You will both be glad to come to your own house & live alltho- it is not very close to Dr. but he perhaps won't need a Dr.  Expect Jim's people were very much surprised to see him and very glad. 

Letter - Page 2

"Yes, Joe was initiated into the High from Jr. High.  He wouldn't tell what he had to do, but said it was the worst they could yet!  Anyway he lived thru it and he is thru wearing a green ribbon around his neck for a wk - Ribbon in his hair for a couple of days, etc.  He plays on the B squad but is rather light, better I think for basketball.

We have had quite a little rain, but the hunting season is not on yet, and may not be one.

Haven't heard from Bud2 for three wks now, but he may be something thru by Mon. that is usually the day we get mail.

Gave not heard from Aunt Mary3 for a long time.  Perhaps she is planning a wedding as Beth4 did want a big affair.

Well the silo is built & filled with corn & some oats but they are still busy with a chute & other things.  The Blimp base back of the Fairgrounds is employing about 1500 men.  Building air ways & R.R. into it.  No one gets very close as it is guarded well.  Well I must close & hope Jim doesn't dance Highland Fling before he is really well - Come anytime you can.  Lots of love & luck.

Aunt Ella"

1 Joe - Joe Caufield - Ella's youngest son.

2 Bud aka Waldo - Ella's oldest son.  

3 Mary - Mary McAdam Emert - Ella's oldest sister

4 Beth - Beth Emmert - Mary's grand-daughter.