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MEMORIES
As written by Mamie Rachel Sterling-Sinner-Earl
to her granddaughter, Audrey Sinner-Katvala
11 August 1960
Note: This has been typed by Mary Rachel Sinner-Hendrickson. I have added missing words, and corrected spelling errors that Grandma Sinner made while writing this. These things have only been done to make the story easy to read, attempting to keep her feelings and thoughts her own.
On the first page of this writing of Grandma Mamie's, she had a pedigree chart, with the following information.
Bird Far Away (All Indian)
Mohawk Indian
Half Indian
Bill Farley Rachel Ann?
John Farley Rachel Ann Farley
Morris Dillon / Rachel Ann Farley
Rochester Sterling / Hattie Bell Dillon - 1 child
TomPearl
May
Grace
Mamie
Bill
Jim
Joe
Ruth
Nette
Ella
2nd marriage
Bill Gilpin Rachel Ann Farley Gilpin
James
William
Ida
Ina
Dear Audrey,
I am writing this letter history for you. I pray you will enjoy it very much, and I also pray it will be written in an understandable way, as I am not much of a writer, although I love to write and sew on my sewing machine. I can not write very much at a time, as my hand gets tired, and my eyes get dim. So, excuse my mistakes I make.
My great grandfather Sterling was born in Scotland, far across the sea, and his wife was from England. She had the title of Lady of England. Then, when my grandfather became a young man, he came to America. Before he came, he married a French lady. They were royalty people. My grandfather had homesteads, or bought a farm. I am not sure which, but had what they called pig iron on it, just like a mine. PS. They came to New York state. Pig mine Iron that is what they called it in those days, but perhaps it has another name in these days. It made my grandfather rich, so of course he gave all his children a good education. They were all trained business people. I has been told that some of our folks came over on the Mayflower ship which brought many Christians on it. One of my grandfathers was the first mayor of Albany, New York. My grandfather must of settled in Watertown, New York at (words indecipherable) the place of some of the brothers of his children.
My father, Roch Sterling was born at Watertown, New York. He had five brothers and three sisters. I am tired, I have begun to make mistakes.
My father was sent to college to learn to become a lawyer, which all his other brothers and sisters were sent through college. One of his brothers, my Uncle Joe was a president of, or I should say of Sterling Insurance Company. Oh Audrey, my spelling is not good, I make so many mistakes. I almost give up trying to write this.
Another brother, Plynn discovered a gold mine in Alaska. He, at one time gave my father a present of $20,000.00, a little fortune. Another brother was an author of books, and one of my grandfathers on my Grandma Sterling side was the first mayor of Carthage, New York. His name was Bradford. Then one of my aunts, Mary opened up the first Sunday School and church in James town, New York. It's quite a story to it, but I just can't write it all. Then, my Aunt Mary lived to be 96 years of age. My Aunt Julie was 86 at the time she passed on. Will try and write some more.
This morning we were out to your (two words unreadable) Daddy's church. We had wonderful time, as the spirit and power of God was there to bless. I missed Glenn, but I know he is enjoying his self at your place, and with the boys.
Aunt Julie married a man named Mills, and his son was a senator in New York state a long time ago. Well, I guess it was some time ago. She lived to be 86, and I am 72, and she passed away when I was maybe 6 or 7 years old then. My Aunt Net married a cousin to President McKinley. Oh Audrey, honey, I may not of spelled it right. She learned to sing. She sang all over America and England. She was asked to sing for Queen Victoria of England about the year of 1853. The queen made her a present of silver ware, very expensive at that time. You know in them days, it was almost wrong to disobey a queen's wish. She asked my aunt to wear a low cut dress at the neck, but my aunt always wore a high collar dress, and she refused to wear a low neck. So, the queen had her to come the way she wanted to dress. She made her home in London, England. There is where she passed away.
And, my father fought in the Civil War in 1862. He served 3 years, was wounded and was sent home, discharged. He opened up his first law office in Joplin, Missouri, where Bill Cody became the U.S. Lawyer officer. You know these days were wild day(s) in the west, as that (is) what they called Joplin, Missouri them days.
My Dad roamed over many states, riding horse back. Theres number of things I could tell, honey. Just a few things. In them days, if a man went as far west as Colorado, he was in the wild country, outlaws, and many Indians. You had to be on guard at all times for your life. Finely, in his 30th year, he came to Nebraska, where he opened up his law office, and as he went down through Kansas, he met my mother, and they were married. He took her to Nebraska to live, and in Shelton, Nebraska 6 of us children were born. My sister Pearl that lives in Olatte, Oklahoma at present, 78 years old. Sister May, who passed away in Wyoming in 1957 was 72 when she died. The same age as I am now. And then when the Indian territory was open for homesteading, my dad and Uncle Willie made the race you have seen in the picture shows of the race. So, he settled in Enid, Oklahoma. There he opened the first land and law office in the town. People from many states took part in the race as they rode horse back. Some had horse and carts, some had wagons loaded with things they needed on the trip. The starting place was on the line of Oklahoma and Kansas. They lined up there, and at a certain time the sound was given to go. So, if you ever see the race into Oklahoma picture show, or (3 words unreadable), you know your great grandfather and great Uncle Billy Gilpin was in it, my mother(`s) half brother. They had the same mother, but mother's father went to war, Civil War, and he never came back. So, Grandma married and Uncle Willie was the oldest child by that marriage. And, he was the first mail carrier in Enid, a little new town that sprang up after the race. They would hang the mail on a rack by the railroad track, and the train never stopped, it just slowed down. Uncle Willie would throw the mail into the mail car, and the mail man on the mail car threw ? the other mail, and Uncle Willie would carry it to the P. office. Of course, he had to carry a 45 on him. I could tell you more. Some fellow tried to hold him up, but will go ? Of course you know we drove horse buggies, or wagons, or horse back. They called my father the cowboy lawyer because he always wore a big hat. All men of the west wore big hats them days, and my dad always wore a big hat all his lifetime. One time, he went down in southern Oklahoma on business to settle some land trouble (he ? what the trouble was). And afterward, they built a town and named it after him, Sterling, Oklahoma. They told him they were naming it after him. I was just a young girl then, but I remember it well. You know we had no cars, so we had to take the horse and buggy when we went out riding. I remember one time, we were out riding. Sister May was driving the four of us girls in the buggy, and she was really going fast. She wanted to ride fast, so we went down a hill that had a sharp turn, and turned the buggy over, spilled us girls down the hillside, and broke the buggy. The horse got loose, ran home and left us all to walk home, abut 2 or 3 miles. And, of course it frightened mother, and dad to see the horse coming home without us girls. We were not very bad hurt, just a few bruises. My father always had stock on his place. Horses, couple of cows for milk for the family, chickens. All of us girls would ride horseback. We could hitch up a horse to the buggy, or a team of horses to a wagon, or to a ? (word unreadable) machine, or hay baler, or whatsoever they had use for them.
Oh yes, you know we had oil lamps in those days, always washing lamp globes in the mornings. Also used what they called sod or flat irons to iron our clothes, and it was hard because it took so much labor to press so many clothes. Then we had the old fashion wash boards, which took much labor to have clean water, but thank God time has changed. The new wash machine, electric irons, so wonderful. Saves the mother so much hard labor.
Morning again. Will try and write a few more lines. I hope you can read this. Well, honey, guess I just will write down the names of your aunts and uncles. You have great-great Uncle Alvin Gilpin, 75 years old; Aunt Ida 86 years old, and Aunt Ina 79 years old. On my mother's side, oh I never told you their names. Aunt Ida McCoy, Ina Cook. These are your great aunts and uncles. Pearl Culver 78 years old; Aunt Ella McBlair 68; Grace Conley 62; Ruth McBlair 60; Uncle Joe Sterling 65; Uncle Tom Sterling 63; Uncle Bill Sterling 57; Jim Sterling 52, my sisters and brothers. I am the only grandma you have living, and you have many cousins on your dad's side. Uncle Joe had grocery store for many years. Uncle Tom is superintendent to the big oil refinery in Enid. (The next couple of sentences are unreadable).
I will now write a little of my mother's side. Her great grandfather came from Ireland. He came to America many years ago, his name was John Farley. I don't know where he settled, but I do know my great grandfather Farley lived in the state of Iowa. He was the shepherd of the sheep. There was a very rich man that had a large number of sheep, and he hired out to take care of the sheep. And my mother, after her mother married again, came to live with her grandparents which were very good Christian people. And, she loved them dearly. She used to tell me so many things they worked at. She told me the man that owned those sheep lived in a large 2 story house. Everything was beautiful, and he had a very large barn and other buildings that sheltered his stock. And the house where her grandfather lived in was a half mile away on the side of a small hill. She said one day a terrible storm came. It rained, the wind blew so hard it blowed a hurricane. I don't know if I spelled it right, or not. We used to have the same kind of storms in Oklahoma. The wind would blow so hard, the raid would just come in sheets. It would be terrible. So, this storm came. My mother was about 9 years old. She became very frightened. They were just in such a little house beside the one the owner lived in, and she wanted grandma to go over to the big house, so her grandma told her she didn't need to be afraid, as God would take care of them. Mother said the little house just reeled and rocked, but it stood the storm, and they stood by the window looking out at the large house down the road. And, they seen it blow to pieces, laying every one of the buildings flat on the ground. It was a terrible sight to see, but their house stood because grandmother knew God and knew what he could do. And, of course grandpa was with the sheep, and everything was all right, as he was praying to God and put all things in God's hands. Isn't it wonderful when we can put all things in God's hands, and sing and be happy because we know Jesus is watching over us, keeping care of us? Like grandpa took care of the sheep, and grandma knew grandpa would be all right because she was praying and she knew grandpa was praying, as he always prayed. So, thank God for his love and mercy he has over our souls. All praises to God the father, all praises to Jesus the son. All praises to the Holy Spirit.
So, you know it was told there was an Indian massacre. You know in those days, there would be numbers of Indian come by the farm houses, and ask for something to eat, and lots of times they would be what we used to call it ``on the warpath". And they would kill everyone they could. It was up to the winning side. Sometimes the white would kill all the Indians, so it was told that there was battles fought and some white people came along right after it was over. Seems how terrible it was. Indians and white lay dead, but one little Indian baby was still alive. And they were good people that found it, raised the little girl, and she was my great-great grandmother. You know there is lots of good Indians, but who would like their land to be taken away from them, like the whites took the Indian's land?
One day after my great grandfather had all went down to Kansas, and him and his sons taken homesteads of their own, and became farmers. Mother, Uncle John lived a mile from her home, and she was going over to his place one day. She was just a child. She seen a dust storm and she went and climbed up a tree. And when it got to her, it was a bunch of buffaloes. If she had stayed on the ground, they would of trampled her to death. So, I guess her grandma must of been praying for her.
Then another time her and her grandfather was going over to her uncle's. In the evening they were walking and they had a faithful dog. And, grandfather always carried a gun, all people did because they would run in to where wild animals were. So, where they were, about a half mile from Uncle John's place, they had a little creek they had to go through. And it was moonlight. And, mother said the dogs came in front of them and began barking, and wouldn't let them by. And, of course Grandpa knew something was wrong, so began to look around, and he looked up in the tree that branched out over the road, and there set a panther just ready to jump upon them. He raisedhis shotgun and killed it. Another act of God protecting his children. Honey, I am just writing on. If I stop to change mistakes, I will never finish this. So you will have to try and understand it.
Well, honey, time went on swiftly. We lived in Nebraska until I was 5 years old. I don't remember much about it, but do remember we had a number of large trees around our house, and a big swing which hung from the large branches. And, oh how much fun us children had swinging, and I still love to swing. And the winters were long and cold. So time came that we were to go, or move to our home in Oklahoma. My father had taken 3 acres in the town that became Enid, 3 months after the Indian Territory race. It was partly on a hill, and so my Dad and Uncle Willie built our house on the hill. Then, Daddy sent for mother and us children to come down to our new home. So, there were f of us girls, and a boy. Pearl, May, Nettie, then me, then the little boy we called Tuck. Then the baby sister, Ella. Grandma Gilpin came along to help mother with us children. It took us 3 days on the train to make the trip. So well I remember how some of mother's friends helped to prepare food to take along, a big flour sack full of cookies. I'll never forget those cookies.
So, the xmas before we left, a friend of mother's and all of us children went to the xmas tree, and everything was nice. But, oh was it cold. Seemed like my hands were frozen before we got home. And, the church was not far from our home. We were to leave Nebraska the 1th (?) of January 1892. So, at last we all were on the train, the first train we were ever on. The ride was fine and we had to change cars in St. Joseph, Missouri. Then that was the first colored man we had ever seen. Or shall I say black man. That frightened us children, but took such good care of us children, helping us so much. We all learned to love him, and he kissed I and my little brother goodbye before we left the train.
So, this is why I will never forget the sack of cookies. Sister May was carrying the sack of cookies when we changed trains. And, oh my, what should happen but the sack came untied and she spilled the cookies right there on the platform of the depot. And, my mother was a proud woman, and how it did embarrass mother. It was terrible, but we needed the cookies, and we had to pick up what we could. But, we got some of our cookies and got on our train, and was soon on our way to home, that was our home until most all the children were married. Oh no, Grace was the oldest child left when my father died. Grace, Joe, Tom, Ruth, Bill, and Jim at home. Well, one more some thing happened as our house was on the hill. So, us children had many happy days running up and down that old hill. Dad had put a fence all around our place. I guess he had to fence us in. So, one day when we were all down the hill, playing in the sand, here came an old colored man, driving horse and wagon, and us children all took to the house screaming, as if we were being killed (rest of sentence is unclear). But, we made it to the house and mother came running, she did not know what was taking place. I guess they sure could tell we were white children, as we were so scared so bad we were all white in the face. Now Audrey, I am going to stop just writing so fast, and making so many mistakes, if it takes me all summer. I've been hurrying so fast, trying to finish before we left for our trip, but not no more. I will take more time, then I will not make mistakes.
It is 90 degrees hot. Sure is warm. Carl is out on the porch on the couch, he sure is resting. And, Ernest is sitting out on the porch. Only place we can find a cool breeze.
I'll be glad when we can come up there to visit Ruth and Juanita, Bob and family, and to see you and family. Monday morning we went to you daddy's church for Sunday school, and morning services. Then we went to the 5th Street mission in the afternoon, then back to your dad's church at night. So, this morning I am a little weary, so will rest today, and write some more. Honey this writing is mixed up so much, but I write whatever comes to my mind first.
Just thinking, we came to Oklahoma, I think 1891, right after xmas, January 1. It was really cold in Nebraska, and it was so cold, and so much snow all winter, but we got to Oklahoma. It was a lovely winter, not very much cold weather. It was so much warmer.
One day, us children took off our shoes and stockings, and when mother looked down the hill, we were just having a big time running in the sand. And did mother get us into the house, and did we put our shoes on. It seemed like summertime to us. Oh yes, when our dad met the train when we arrived, we were all so happy to see our new home. So, when he opened the door to go into the house, there sat a brand new little blue wagon, full of peanuts, candy, apples, and popcorn. That was the first sight in our new home, and of course my little brother was so happy. He was the only boy, and that was his very own wagon. You know there was no so many toys for children as there is these days. So, we all had a happy time, and how I loved that little brother, and he loved me so much, as I was just 2 years older than him. He always missed me so much. Mother used to tell me he loved me so much, and I loved him so much. So, almost one year, we were all so happy then. Just a while before xmas, he took sick, and oh I was so sad, as he was my playmate. I miss him so much. He was bad sick, and was suffering. I remember my heart was breaking. I was so lonely, missing him so much. All day, laying in bed, too sick for us children to talk to. Oh, I loved him so, and to this day I cannot write or talk about him, without tears filling my eyes. So, just a few days before xmas, he passed away. We buried him. It seems that was the saddest day of my life. I can still see the little white casket sitting by our front window. You know, if anyone passed on in those days, you kept them in your home until you buried them. Oh, that was such a sad xmas to all our family. Mother's only little boy then, how it broke all our hearts to see him laid away.
The rest of us children all grew up, all married. You know, Audrey honey, there is no lasting happiness in this old world, lots of trouble, hard things to go through. There is only lasting happiness in Jesus, and I am sure when we reach that other shore, there only will we find true and everlasting happiness forever, and forever with Jesus, with all those that have gone before us, that have put their trust in Jesus, washed in his blood, forgiven of every sin. Oh, it was so wonderful to know that God sent his only begotten son in to the world to die for us poor sinners, that whosoever would call up on the name of Jesus could be saved. And, I am glad I called upon his name, and he saved me, filled me with the sweet holy ghost. It gives me joy that no man can take away from me.
Then, when my oldest sister married, that was another sad day. She was so kind and gentle to all us children. I know God has saints on earth because she was one of them. It left our home lonely. God bless he, I loved her so much. Oh, I feel like praising the Lord right now. Oh, sweet wonder that Jesus loved even me, and I love him for he has been the best friend I ever had. Oh wonders of wonder how Jesus loves every poor sinner. He is God's only son, blessed be the Father, Son and Holy Ghost.
You know, honey, one day I was sitting by my writing desk, studying my bible, which I have read over and over. Blessed old bible, how I love it. I am tired, will stop here until later.
Morning, another new day the Lord has made. Just thinking on how the days have been to you. I and your mamma and daddy used to have wonderful times with our bibles. We would sit hours at a time, reading and studying the bible. There was one place, 2nd Cor. Chapter 5. It says to be home in the body is to be absent from the Lord, but to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. So we had thought upon it many times, then we believe when we pass away from this life, we believe the soul returns to God, right in the presence of Jesus. So, about 3 or 4 months after your mother's death, I was alone one day, reading my bible, thinking of this very chapter. It seemed like I was in the very presence of Jesus. It was so sacred. I sat for hours thinking and reading, then things changed. I was in a vision, or trance. In this, I was standing in a great open space, it was a great green, beautiful grass, so green and pretty and many green trees. It seemed to be at a foot of a hill because from where I stood, I could see as far as eye could see. Green fields, and green trees, but it seemed the ground gradually sloped upward, until it reached the sky, and I seemed to look up into heavens. I looked up from where I stood, it seemed I seen Jesus, and the Father, and Holy Spirit, with many angels. And, it was all so bright, and beautiful.
I must of been in the vision for hours. Then as I was looking upon the beauty of it, I could see a light, or white object coming down as far away as my eyes could see. Must of been coming out of heaven. And, as I stood there, as in a dream, watching it come closer and closer, until I could see it was someone. Then when it got to me, it was your momma. She was so beautiful, dressed from head to foot in a bright white shining garment. I could see her pretty brown eyes, as she came up to me, holding her hand out to me. She said ``Yes mom, it is as we thought. Here, take hold of my hand, follow me." I took hold of her hand, and rubbed up on her arm which was as soft as a babies skin. She said ``Yes, Mom, it is as we thought, and no one can get in here, only in Jesus' name." I don't know how long we stood there, but she was the most beautiful creature, or angel I ever seen. I was in such amazement, I could not speak to them. After so long a time, she began to back away, until I could see her no more. Oh Audrey, it was wonderful. I told your daddy I seen your momma in her glorified body. Thank God for the vision. You never know how you feel, until you see such a vision, or in a trance as some people call it. So, I am satisfied when we leave this body, we are with Jesus.
As now, I think again of a vision I had. I had been real sick for 3 or 4 days. So, one night I felt as I could not bear the pain that was in my head and chest. I was very sick. I began to cry out to the Lord for mercy, as you know Audrey, I know the Lord is the healer of every disease, healer of every sickness. So, as I cry unto the Lord, with my whole heart to heal me, as I felt I could not bear the pain much longer, then oh then, God answered me in a vision. I was gone somewhere with the Lord. I was in a corn field and as I stood there in amazement, I seen Jesus standing by a stalk of corn. There were ears of corn on the stalk of corn, and lots of it laying on the ground. Jesus had one hand on the stalk , and pointed his other hand at me, and said `` If you go back, will you help to gather in the grain?" I said ``Yes, Lord". Then I came to myself. I was well. He had healed me. Oh, I thank God so much because you know, it says in the bible, by the stripes Jesus bore on his back were for our healing. 1st Peter Chapter 2, verses 21 to 25. When evening shadows are falling, and the light is fading away,
I seem to hear a voice calling, calling for me to come and pray.
For the souls that are wondering from God, in the wilderness of life, astray.
For this day is God's day, and he will hear the soul that prays.
And if you know not God, my brother, and from God you are far away,
Remember this day is God's day, and he will hear the soul that prays.
Morning again. We were out to your daddy's church last night. Oh, what a glorious time we had. The power was so strong. We prayed for a woman Sunday, that was sick. She said the doctor told her she would have to be operated on. So, last night was Wednesday. She said she was healed Sunday night. When we prayed and she had gone back to the doctor, Monday, he told her she was healed, she did not need no operation now. So thank God. There were more for prayer for healing last night. Oh God's power is working. That whosoever will call upon him, and believe, will be healed.
I was just thinking this morning of my Aunt Ida McCoy of long ago. When she married, we were at Grandma Gilpin's just about a year before we came to Oklahoma. They lived in a large house, and when her and Uncle Charlie came down the stairs as someone played the wedding march. I well remember she had a long blue satin dress, and Uncle Charlie had a black suit. And, they looked so pretty as they came down the stairway. And, an old time organ playing. I was about 4 years old then, so it was a long time ago. Now Aunt Ida is 85 years old. You know everything looks so pretty to children. Then they had a big dinner, lots of friends were there, and I remember as they drove away, going somewhere on their honeymoon, as they called it in them days. And, they threw rice (shaes?) at them, all rejoicing.
A long, long time ago, the world was much different. I mean, here in good old American -honey, here I am again, scratching and not spelling, but you try and make it out. I am sorry, but I get to writing, sometimes I think faster than I can write, but forgive me, honey. My eyes are not so good.
Just thinking just how a little bird can cheer us some times. One morning, after I had been out here in California, and had not seen none of my home folk for about 8 years. I was so lonesome. One morning I was sitting outdoors, thinking of my mother, and the ones back home. I sat crying because I was so homesick to see them all again. There was a big tree not far from me, and all at once, a sweet mocking bird began singing. And, Audrey, just seemed like God must of sent him to me. He sang so pretty, it thrilled my soul. Such peace came unto my heart, that what a little bird can do. He must have been sent by God to cheer my heart. Just a memory. Oh God is so good and hears us when we pray.
Then one time the place where we were living, your grandpa's paycheck was very small, and we had 5 children at that time. It was almost school days time for the children to start back to school. And my, my Audrey, how was we going to have, or get money to buy 3 pairs of shoes and things they had to have. You know, in them days you could buy children's shoes for $1.50 or $2.00 a piece, but we never seen much money them days. Wages was cheap. So, one day, I cried out to God, just what were we to do then. I didn't know as much about the heavenly father as I do now, but I knew it said if you believe, and prayed to him, he could do anything for you if you believe (nothing to hard for him). So, I didn't know no other way to pray, so I asked God to give me enough money, or let me find money enough because I didn't know just how to put it to do so. I knew if he could do anything, he could let me find the money. So, I never told anyone about praying to find money. I never thought no more about it. One day, as we drove into town, as we lived in the country. So, a neighbor lady and some of her children and our children all went. So, we stopped in front of the store, and everyone got out of the car. I was the last one to get out, and just as I stepped on the ground, I looked down and there lay a ten dollar bill. I picked it up, and never said nothing to no one. I kept it for 2 or 3 weeks, thinking I might find the one that lost it. Then one day, someone spoke to me ``Didn't you pray to find money?" Then I bowed my head in shame, and asked God to forgive me because he had sent the money. Wasn't it wonderful, Audrey? Oh, if we were to believe God for all things we (?) his hands when we don't believe. Oh praise his holy name. So, I got the children their shoes, and other things I had to have, and will always remember how good God was to me. Oh so many times since then, he had done so many things for us, and most of all he saved my soul, sent his precious son to shed his blood on the cross for me and whosoever will may come and drink the water of life freely with out money or price. Only a sinner saved by grace, only a sinner he took my place.
Only a sinner lost in sin, he bid me arise, and enter in.
No charges I had to pay, just the blood washed away.
No one will forget a good deed done, but the time will come he who runs
from the cares of the day, he will find he is beaten because he did not stay.
September 8, 1960: Well, here I am. Another few days has passed. We were intending on being away on our vacation about 2 months. We left home for Frisco Saturday evening, and arrived Sunday morning at 5 o'clock. Took our bus at 8:45, and arrived at Sonoma, California at 11 o'clock. Ernest took sick, so Wednesday morning, Kenny was coming down to Los Angeles, so we came on back home. So we had a short vacation, but we may get to go later on this fall. We enjoyed our trip, as we crossed the Golden Gate bridge. As I remember when I first came to California in May 4, 1915, there were two things I did want to see, the California poppies fields, and the Golden Gate bridge. So when we went across it Saturday, that made 8 times I have crossed that bridge. Thank God for these things we have a desire to do. Blessed Lord, make a way for all things. And I seen many poppy fields, which is a beautiful sight to see.
I remember one time when we were traveling, which we did lots. We were in New Mexico, camps close to the Rio Grand River. Was then a beautiful river I carried water from the river to wash and drink. But you know, most things were so much different than now. How I enjoyed it. We had our camp in among trees, and to have the camp fire burning, and smell the fresh coffee, it was so wonderful. As that Indian blood in me always made me like to live outdoors, and I think it is very healthy to live out in the open air, hear the birds singing, and other animals making their wild sound. And I always love to travel because when I was a young girl, the only way was with wagon or riding a horse, but there was no restriction on what or how you should do a free country, wide open spaces, to do what you like. We have ferry across the Red River from Oklahoma into Texas. Ferries across the Colorado River. Ferry across the Columbia River in the state of Washington. What wonderful times then. Set out under the stars, and big bright moon at night. But, of course, things and times have changed. All those things, but most all things have changed since I was a girl. People are not the same. Most people dress like the world, act like the worldly people. Maybe I don't make sense, but I understand. Ha ha. Well, God bless your little heart. I know you got some things hid in your heart that nothing, or no one can take away. Things about God. Malachi 3, v 15-18: And, we call the proud happy. Yea, they that tempt God are even delivered. Then, they that feared God spake often one to another, and the Lord hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him, for them that feared the Lord and that brought upon his name, and they shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts. In that day, when I make up my jewels, and I spare them as a man spareth his own son that serveth him, then shall ye return and discern between him that serves God and him that serveth him not.
A Yellow Rose:
One time I seen a yellow rose, its petals were soft and sweet
It reminded me of a baby, standing on its tender little feet.
Watching out of a window at the rain drops falling fast
Brought back sweet memories of dreams out of the past.
Such dimples little darlings, so innocent and sweet
No thoughts of tomorrow, of the cares or sorrow it may meet.
Each day just a dream day, happy hours no thoughts of sorrow
Kisses, love and play, not a dream of tomorrow.
As I sit here dreaming, of things out of the past
A voice seems to whisper, joy like this can never last.
Times will change tomorrow, to a much different day.
Where there will be care and sorrow, as we journey on our way.
For life is just a garden, of flowers rich and rare
Some lovely yellow roses, some so white and fair.
Some need so much water, care and sunshine, too
While some need so little, like a pansy covered with dew.
For they are all in God's garden, glowing so rich and rare
As he let his sunshine upon them, he watches them with tender care.
So fear not little yellow rose, you are in God's care.
So keep right on blooming, and make the world more fair.
St. Mark 8, v 41:
For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name because ye belong to Christ, I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward.
St. John 6 v 47:
Verily, verily I say unto you; he that believeth on me hath everlasting life.
St. John 14:
Let not your heart be troubled, ye, believe in God. Believe also in me. In my father's house are many mansions. If it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you, and if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself, that where I am, there ye may be also.
St. John 15 v 5:
I am the vine, ye are the branches. He that abideth in me and I in him bring forth much fruit. For without me, ye can do nothing. And whatsoever ye ask in my name, that will I do, so that the father may be glorified in the son. If ye shall ask anything in my name, I will do it.
September 19, 1960 - October 10, 1960:
Well, I will try and write a few more lines, too, as we are at Modesto, California with Richard and family. We are all well. We thank God for our health. It was quite a change leaving Los Angeles, as it has been so hot, and it is real cool up here. Always lonesome to leave Ralph and family, and his church. May God bless them and their church. Moving up here brings to my mind when I went up to Hester at Chico. Butch and Spike, was a little fellow then, and I loved them so much. We were all so happy to be together. Then it was the first time I had been to Chico, and there are so many big trees there; English walnut trees, and other kinds of nut trees. Then we lived close by the Sacramento river. It was in Sonoma, and everything was so pretty and green. We were all so happy then, as Hester was in good health, and now she is so sick. Only a stranger in a strange land. Just to be lead by the dear saviour, looking to him to guide me each day, trusting to him to lead me on the way.
Lord, you heard Peter and John when they prayed. You told them to walk the straight and narrow way, and if they believed, you would be with them, and be unto them a friend unto the end. Oh Lord, hear me. I am one of your sheep. Be with me, Lord that your reward I will see.
Copied: (not written my Mamie) Not till the (?) is silent, and the shutters cease to fly
Shall God unroll the canvas, and explain the reason why.
The dark thread are as needful in the weaver's skillful hand
As the thread of gold and silver, in the pattern he has planned.
Away with the work that hinders prayer, t'were best to lay it down
For prayerless work, however good, will fail to win the crown.
In the year of 1960, in the month of June, I went back to the town I was raised in. They held the family reunion the second day of June. Four brothers and five sisters. It really was a grand time, as we all enjoyed seeing each other once again. There were my sister and brother's children, and grandchildren. Not one of my children was there, but I am looking forward to this coming June in hopes that some of my children will be there. At that time in 60, was 63 people. What a time it was. So wonderful to be all together. We had our dinner in the Government Springs Park, which is now a beautiful park. A wonderful time. Things we don't forget. When we arrived at brother Tom's, sister Ella was very sick. Had been for a good long time. She just couldn't seem to eat anything. So, about 3 days after I arrived at brother Tom's, my sisters, Ruth and Pearl, and myself went to sister Ella's house. They said she had been terrible bad the night before. She couldn't keep any food on her stomach, and she hadn't eaten much for a long time, as she was sick. She had been to the doctor the day before we went to see her, and she was going back on the morrow to the hospital. Her daughter told me she said ``Aunt Mamie, momma won't be able to be at the dinner, as they are going to keep her in the hospital. They think she has a cancer".
So, as we were leaving her, I knew that some of them didn't believe in Jesus' healings. They thought you just always had to have a doctor. So, I waited until all had left the room. I said to my sister, Ella ``Now, you know Jesus is the healer. Why don't you trust him?" I said ``I ought to lay my hands on you and pray, and you believe, and it shall be done". So, she said ``Pray Mamie". So, I lay my hands on her, and I said ``Be healed, in Jesus' name", and prayed a short prayer. Then, her daughter came in, and I said ``Ella, I will see you at the dinner in the park tomorrow". Ada said ``Oh Aunt Mamie, we are taking mother to the hospital right now, and she won't be at the dinner because they will keep her in the hospital", and turned to leave. I said ``Ada, your mother will be at the dinner. God has healed your mother". She couldn't believe it. So, they took her to the hospital, and after dinner, we went back over to see what happened. The doctor sent her home. Ada had bought a malt, so Ella said ``Oh, I would like to taste it". I said ``Take it, Ella, and eat it all", which she did, and she kept it down. I told Ada to go get her something to eat, which she did. You know, Audrey, there is no doctor like Jesus. So, the next day was the big dinner in the park, it was on a Sunday so everyone could be there. Ella had George take her to Sunday schook, and he left her and drove home. After Sunday school, she came. We had the tables all set, all the food on the tables, and we had all set down at the table, ready to eat. We looked across the park, and there came sister Ella, walking, coming to dinner to eat with us. Jesus did it. Just came in time to begin eating together, but don't think there wasn't every eye on her. They were so surprised. I said ``Ada, I told you Jesus would heal her, and parise God, in Jesus name, she is healed. Thank God forever, only believe, and she was there for dinner". Oh Audrey, believe Jesus for everything. He is the healer, the peace maker, and the way maker. He is able to do more than we can ask, or think. Praise his holy name forever. He is a real saviour to me, and will be to whoever believes and calls upon his name. Hallelujah, thine the glory, hallelujah amen. Hallelujah Jesus saved me, he can save other men.
St John v14-21:
Verily, verily, I say unto you. He that believeth on me, the works I do, shall he also do, and greater works than these shall he do because I go unto my father. If ye shall ask anything in my name, I will do it.
St. John 16 v24:
Hitherto, have ye asked nothing in my name, ask and ye shall receive that your joy may be full.
Copied from a poem, I don't know the name: You tell me I am getting old, that's not really so.
The house I live in may be worn, and that of course I know.
Its been in use a good long time, and weathered many a gale
I'm therefor not surprised to find, it is getting some what frail.
The color is changing on the roof, the windows looking dim
The wall a bit transparent, to find it looking thin.
The foundation not so steady, as once it used to be
You are looking at the outside, but its not really me.
These few short years do not make me old, I feel I am in my youth
Eternity lies just ahead, full of life and joy and truth.
We do not fret to see this house grow, shabby, day by day
But look ahead to our new home, which never will decay.
The dweller in my little house, is young and bright and gay
Just starting on a life to last, throughout eternal day.
I am going to live forever, life will go its grand
You think I am getting old, you just don't understand
He who would see good day and long life, let him remember the prophets of old
How he told them in his word, that eternal life can't be bought with sin.
Then you seek the wide world over, and you search here and there
You can't lay your hand on, the (rest is unclear to typist)
Another copied: If I gained the world but had not Jesus, who endured the cross and died for me
Could then all the world afford a refuge, (?) in my anguish I might flee.
Had I wealth and love in the fullest measure, and a name revered both far and near
Yet no hope beyond, no harbor waiting, where my storm tossed vessel I could steer.
Oh, what emptiness without the saviour, mid the sins and sorrow here below
And eternity how dark without him, only night and tears and endless woe.
What thought I might live without the saviour, when I to die, how would it be?
Oh, to face the valleys gloom without him
And without him all eternity.
Christ recieveth sinful men, laden down with many sins
Purges from all guilt and stain, fit for heaven to enter in.
There's a dear spot to me and ever will be, the place I made my peace with God
I left my sins and woe because they all had to go, I left them all at the foot of the cross.
And, my burdens roll away, as I knelt there to pray, and I was glad for the old rugged cross.
And I knew in my heart the sweet peace he did impart, Would remain always.
And when I knelt to pray, my burdens rolled awy, because I left them at the foot of the old rugged cross. When I hear the saints singing, and hear the sweet music ringing, I think of the beautiful heavens above
November. Your Momma Waiting and watching through the darkness, after a long weary night
Hoping when darkness had gone, that there would be a bright light.
Sorrow had filled our hearts, our eyes filled with tears were dim
And our hope we had vanished, as we remembered the things that had been.
The grief and the sorrow was heavy, and the burden had bent us down
But somewhere there was a reunion, someone had won a crown.
As the saints was (?) by the angels, up through the pearly gates home.
Another poem: I know my savior is there, I can feel him everywhere
And I know he hears me, every time I pray.
I want to be ready in that hour
When he comes back in power, to catch his waiting children away.
My Old Bible: The book that lay before me, its pages were worn and loose
They were old, faded and torn, was soiled much by long use.
Many teardrops had fell upon it, many prayers had been said
With my trembling hands I had held it, as I searched for the words it said.
Oh, how often I had read it, as I crushed it to my heart
For the comfort it had given me, as the words it did impart.
How I had prayed for my loved one, that God would show them the way.
They told me of my savior, how he had died for me
How he left his home in Glory, just to save a sinner like me.
And often when I was lonely, I would crush it to my breast
And I could hear a sweet voice saying, child, come unto me and rest.
For I come to save the sinners, that are lost and sick of sin
And if you will trust me, you may come and enter in.
For the blood that was shed at Calvary, was shed in love for you
And where so many of the promises, as I read on into the word.
And, I claimed each and every promise, for I had learned to love the Lord
And this is why the Bible is so dear, to a weary, troublesome heart.
And this is why with my Bible, I will never, no never part.
In The Summertime: It is summer, the birds are singing, the earth has on her beautiful gown
The children are gayly playing , the sun is brightly shining down.
All day they have been so busy, not a care has clouded their sky,
It must of been like heaven, but in heaven they will never die.
So, the day has passed so swiftly, which we never can recall
For the deeds we done today, is written down for one and all.
For they say there's a big book in heaven, it's pages so white and fair,
For each word or deed we do, is written on its pages up there.
Then, I stop and wonder, what I had done today,
Had I been cross to the children, or had I spoken in a sweet way.
Then I thought of words spoken, so many things untrue
How easy a promise is broken, and what if they were about you.
Had I mistreated some brother, or cold and distant to a friend,
Had I been cross and ugly, and refused to my neighbors to lend.
Then I thought about the Bible, the old story so sweet.
To cast all our sin and sorrow, at our blessed Jesus' feet.
How he came into this world, to die on cruel Calvary
That you and I might have life, and from sin be set free.
It's the old, old story, it's often been told
It just seems to me, just in Christ you can be bold.
You can turn your back on the devil, and on his servants, too
For Jesus shines in glory, and he will see that you get through.
The door of heaven will be opened, to rescue all of its own,
For the sacrifice of Jesus, in God for all (?) atone.
Ring out ye glories of heaven, in praises of our king,
Let us join with the heavenly voices, and make our praises ring.
For in all this wide world, you never find a friend so true, Jesus will help you through.
So when the book is open, and all our names are called
There is blessed hope in Jesus, for one and for all.
In The Valley: I was down in the valley, was feeling so low. I heard my savior call me, said ``Arise up and go".
I went to the harvest field, worked both early and late
Told them to turn to Jesus, before it was too late.
I told of his nail-pierced hands, thorns he wore on his head
And his bleeding side of blood, for you and me was shed.
I told them he went away, said he would be back again
And he would gather each one, that had turned away from sin.
Oh, I hear the abundance of rain, I feel the joy in my soul
For I know he is coming back again, to gather his sheep in the fold.
Then, he called me to the top of the mountain, he showed me the abundance of rain
The people were receiving the spirit, out of the latter rain.
Then I knew what Jesus meant, when he said arise up and go
I will give you joy everlasting, and your cup will overflow.
Now I am looking for Jesus, for I know it is true
I know every eye will see him, that means even me and you.
Oh, the joy of his coming, fills my heart with praise
For my cup is overflowing, with joy that gave.
A Nation In Bloom: The flowers that bloom in the morning, with their sweet fragrance of perfume
It's just the glimpse of a nation, of youth in its full bloom.
The flowers must be weeded and watered, and from insects kept under control
To ? out its sweetest fragrance, with the brightest hues to bloom.
So friends, it's the same with a nation, it must be treated with kindness and love
And be taught of the Father's mercy, from the great high heavens above.
Then who could stand in the presence, of love so mighty and strong?
So let us get in tune with heaven, and obey the book with love and song.
As I Stood On The Banks Of A River: I stood on the banks of a river, watching the blue water as it passed
The water was running fast, swiftly carrying its burdens as by me it quickly passed.
Carrying the leaves and bushes, which had carelessly fell in its path.
I knew it was winding its way, far out into the deep, blue sea
Other eyes would behold it, just as it had appeared to me.
And, as I stood by the river, the water kept flowing along
To me its sound made sweet music, like someone singing a love song.
Then I thought of a sweet maiden, with eyes so soft and bright
Perhaps, looking over the water, thinking of someone far out of sight.
Out in the midst of the ocean, had gone for his country to fight
As she stood there with heart breaking, praying to God to make all things right.
And, further on down the river, in my vision I seemed to see
A tramp, unshaven and ?, of joy that used to be.
Happy days gone forever, for mother now he would never see
For God had taken her to heaven, where she would forever be.
He sat washing his feet in the river, bruised, weary and all alone
As the wind blew through the branches, to him it seemed to moan.
Telling him of the sorrow, that he must bear alone.
But a voice seemed to whisper, ``Mother used to pray alone".
He thought could this be the sweet child, that knelt at mother's knee
As she told him the sweet story, about the man of Galilee?
That he had come into the world, to save sinners as guilty as he
And he seemed to hear mother saying, ``Come unto him, he will not turn you away".
As he sat there watching the water, as it swiftly by him passed
He thought of his dear mother, for his love for her would always last.
Then he lowered his head in sorrow, as from his savior forgiveness asked.
My vision seemed to go with the water, farther on down the stream
A little shack beaten by the weather, all crumbled, ready to fall, it seemed.
Surely this must of been the vision, of the tramp that sat by the stream
Surely he must of answered his call, of prayer so long had been.
And there as I stood b y the river, I heard the sweet singing of birds
And, I know others had listened to the sweet singing, the same as I heard.
And, the water flowed on down the river, and I knew it went into the sea
Then I knew that the master of the river, would never, no never forget me.
So, Audrey, I am going to draw my book to the end. I am sorry I haven't been able to do better, but honey, I have had many cares this last summer. You know I brought Ernest home and he is doing wonderful, which I thank God for. I fasted and prayed, so how I thank God he is home and a good Christian boy. But, Margaret is not so well. ? Uncle Hugh not well, but darling, I just pray and leave them in the hands of God, that I will be able to find them in heaven. So honey, I am praying that you will get some good out of this writing. I am such poor writer. Of course, this book was just written for you, my own darling girl. So, honey, excuse the spelling and writing. I done this all for you. You know I think faster than I can write. So, here is wishing you all a merry xmas, and a wonderful year ahead, full of good things. And, keep close to Jesus. He will help us through all our sorrow, and fill us with joy. And may we be able to meet in heaven, and look upon our blessed savior's face. So, God bless you and children, and may your home be ? together again.
Your grandmother that loves you very much. So may God's riches blessings be with you all. Bye bye now. Rachel Earl, 72 years.
Next summer, if God spares? my life, I guess I will write another book with more important things in it, if I am able.
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