Evan Call Family - 19330710

Historical Context

This letter, most likely written by Beatrice "Evelyn" (Jones) Pedersen -- who was serving in the Eastern States Mission and released about the same time as Evan. Born in Henefer, Utah, she was apparently considering traveling home with the cohort in Evan's car.

Evelyn mentions needing a "clergy book." Historically, railroads offered discounted "clergy rates" for ministers and missionaries. These books contained coupons or permits that allowed for significantly cheaper travel, which was essential during the economic hardships of 1933.

The letter reflects a transition period. Evelyn is preparing to "break away" from her current situation to return home, moving from the active life of church service back to being "just folks living in a quiet way."

704 Broadway
Newburgh, N.Y.
July 10, 1933

Dear Elder Call:

Sorry first of all that I have been so neglectful in answering your letter even if I was unable to tell you definitely about my going home or such. But this morning is the first time I have definitely decided I'll go soon. There are so many plans to go and all I can't see how I can get everything done but guess if we stayed a year longer it would be the same thing, as one has to break away some time. I however don't know just what to do as yet but I think I will remain here for one week until after a baptismal service next Sun. then go to New York and get ready to leave, and I plan on staying a few days in Syracuse so can’t plan to go home with you and others. No doubt you have all your plans made by now anyway it has been so long, but I just haven’t been able to tell you definitely until today. I would like to go to Palmyra with you though but a trunk is always my story however I guess I could ship it to Syracuse then pick it up there but if I go home on the train a little later I’ll have to buy my ticket from New York or buy another clergy book so I suppose I’ll have to abandon that idea, but this one I want that

I’ll perhaps see you in Brooklyn on the 18th or 19th.

You can tell I am planning things as I’m writing because I have changed my mind many times since I started, anyway in a few weeks it will all be over and we will be just folks living in a quiet way.

I thank you Elder Call for your kindness and I wish things would make it possible for me to go home in your car but I can’t plan on that for sure so you make your plans and if anything comes to change things for me then I’ll write you but if not I’ll see you perhaps in New York in a few days.

Sincerely,

Evelyn

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