This letter was written on October 19, 1932, by Ella Mae Lemmon, during the depths of the Great Depression. Ella Mae’s mention of a "spud vacation" is a very specific regional reference to Eastern Idaho. During the potato (spud) harvest, schools and businesses would often shut down so that everyone—including children—could help in the fields. It’s a tradition that persists in some parts of Idaho even today.
Rigby, Idaho.
October 19, 1932.
Pres. Evan P. Call.
273 Gates Ave.
Brooklyn, New York.
Dear Pres. Call –
This no doubt will surprise you – since it has been quite long since you sent me the snaps & the fine letter. Thanks so much – they were very good and they reminded me of the enjoyable time we had.
From what I hear – big things are happening in the Blue Ridge district. That speaks well for the Pres., I think. Was surely thrilled to hear about the first meeting at Harrisburg. How are things coming there by now? You know I’m still interested in them. Also the people of Altoona and etc.
Conference was grand. The re-union was great fun – although some were missing. The April one should be interesting too – by the way the time is flying by – it won’t be
long before you will be breezing in will it. Well, as for myself – I’d give almost anything to get back out again. But fate is against me. Right now we are having a two weeks “spud vacation” with pay (But I believe there’s a catch in it somewhere. We’ll probably have to make it up on Saturdays.) And I’m working in the stand. I’m getting a kick out of it – it’s a change and that is what I crave.
My church duties are varied and plenty of them. Work in the M.I.A. and Sunday School. Then I’m Vice President of the Business & Professional Women’s club here. Right now I’m up to my neck in activity. The Lions Club of Rigby is putting on a play and I’m taking one of the leads. In fact I’m a “domineering wife of a hen-pecked husband” – sounds interesting doesn’t it? It’s a rushed affair. We are putting it on 9 days from the day we got our copies. It’s going to be good! Really! Drop in and see it.
No sign of snow yet – but last nite I let our car freeze – what a dumbbell! Well – I’ll learn – maybe.
Surely would like to hear from you and get the lowdown and etc – so when you have time – pen me a line. Give my best regards to companion and all –
Sincerely,
Ella Mae Lemmon.
[Post-script written in margins:]
How’s Buck Valley? Are the elders still there? I hope not. Any change in the district?