John E. Hogan was born in Chicopee, MA on February 4, 1896. Katherine Carney, the daughter
of John and Katherine (Collins) Carney was born in Peabody, MA around 1899.1 John served in
Co B of the 8th Massachusetts Infantry. He would be recommended for discharge due to eye
problems in October of 1917. However, his discharge papers would be misplaced and would
still be with the regiment when they moved to North Carolina in November. Sometime after
December 17th (his last letter from North Carolina) he was finally discharged.
Katherine and John married June 20, 1920 in Chelsea, MA. They would have three children,
Irene, John, and Rita. John worked as a postal clerk after war. Katherine died May 1, 1964.
John survived Katherine by three years dying May 25, 1967 at Quigley Memorial Hospital in
Chelsea. He and Katherine are interred in St. Mary’s Cemetery.
Chelsea Oct 8 1916
Friend John
Your card received and was surprised to hear you had gone to Conn. How do you like, I hear it is
someplace. Are you on your honeymoon?
Why didn’t you let us know you were going so we could see you off. I intended riding last week
to ask you to take in a dance over Roughan’s Monday night thought I was going to have a fine
time but after all my plans I can’t go.
I strained my ankle last week thinking it was all right went to a dance Friday night, I guess
dancing must have irritated it as it was all swollen when I got home so now I have the pleasure
of hopping around on one foot.
Well, John my little nephew just arrived on the scene and is pestering me with questions so will
have to close. Hoping to hear from you again. I am as ever, friend Katherine
Bristol Conn
Oct 9, 1916
Friend Katherine
Your welcome letter received and glad to hear from you. How could you think I was on a honeymoon. You know you would be the party of the second part if I were.
I was loafing when I answered an “ad” in the Globe and got a letter to come down here to work on a machine shop and so I thought I would try and see what it was like.
This is some town here for one who has lived in a real city and I would enjoy a real dance. I am sorry you hurt your ankle and hope it will come around all right again in a few days. Take care of it as they say a sprain is worse than a break. Give my regards to Marj B & Marj F. I’m sending you a card of our church. Notice I am right at home as in Boston, St. Joseph’s.
You and Marj Blandon were the first two I wrote to when I landed here so you see I am always thinking of you Kitty. I went to see a football game yesterday (Sunday) and our team got beat 13 to 0. Some team. I have been working lights for a week and don’t think so much of it.
I will probably throw up the job soon and back to Boston and my friends. I am lost down here as there are no one to go to a dance with.
The nearest Dancehall is in the next town Forestville and they run Tuesday and Thursday night. I’m going over to-morrow night and see if I can dance Conn. Style. I suppose they dance the hop step and a jump style here. I will let you know how I make out. I wish you were down here we got yes? But all I do here when I go out is walk around alone as I haven’t got acquainted with anyone yet.
We have two picture house and that’s about all there is in the line of amusement in the town. One has three vaudeville acts and three pictures and the other is all pictures. You know the vaudeville is good too. Well Kitty hoping you are enjoying good health and you ankle is getting better I will close this ever
Your friend
John E. Hogan
of Bristol Conn.
Boston Mass
Oct. 18, 1916
Friend Kitty
Well I am back in Boston again as I could not get used to the quiet life of Bristol. I only hope was blasted when I went to the dance at Forestville and saw what the conditions were.
As I wrote on the postcard 13 girls and 16 fellows most to buy each and a case of you dance with my girl and I’ll dance with your sister. Also a quick waltz, foxtrot and one step. So you see I didn’t fit for a minute. I landed in Boston at 6.30 P.M. and was over Roughan’s at 8.30 Sat night.
Give my regards to both Margarets until I said no place like Boston and suburbs, Chelsea and Dorchester.
Well Kitty hope your ankle is better and to see you before the summer season opens at the beach. I will close as ever
Your friend
John E. Hogan
Chelsea Oct 22 1916
Friend John:-
Your letter received and I know you must have been glad to get back home. I bet you are you think more now a Boston after visiting Bristol and Forestville. Some dance alright, I can imagine how good Roughan’s, looked to you. I have not been to a dance since I last wrote you, and can’t say at this writing when I will go, but, don’t be surprised if you are dated up for a dance some night.
My ankle is fine now, thank you. Did I tell you the firm that Marge B work for has failed, so if you hear of anyone looking for a swell stenographer, just let her know. She has a phone in the house now so you can call her up sometime, Dor 6645 W.
Well, John, I have to write a few more young letters so will close, with regards from both Margarets also from your friend, Katherine.
Chelsea Dec 20 1916
Friend John:
Receive the cards I’d like them real well, and thank you very much. It was certainly kind and thoughtful of you to send them. Quite an idea having the name on. Yes?
I suppose you will scream when I say that Marge and yours truly are thinking of going to a dance after Xmas. Do you think we’ll get by. Will probably send announcements to all our friends safety first you know. I am going over tomorrow as I I’m about 48 errands to do so will say good night, hoping you are enjoying the best of health and thanking you again. believe me, as ever
Your friend
Katherine
Chelsea May 20 1917
Friend John:-
As I did not hear from you for some time I’ve been wondering if you forgot your Chelsea friends. Also would like to inform you I’ve been patiently waiting for your picture on a postcard, you said you would have some taken. Did the photographer go on strike? Or is it a case of your Queen won’t let you. Anyhow just to be sociable, right if you have time to.
Your friend
Katherine
PS I am taking a chance sending this to the address I know as perhaps you may now be somewhere in France. Hope you are well.
K.
Chelsea June 25, 1917
Friend John:-
Just a few lines hoping you are well and still somewhere in the West End. How are you making out on the new job I can imagine you are kept very busy, I’ve been quite busy myself, otherwise would’ve written sooner.
The Italians in my place of business refuse to work to-day so they let us have the afternoon off, Margaret Tully and I went over to see the parade, we looked for you but failed to see you. Which regiment did you join? – and –do you think you will have to go away, if so, hope you will try to come over and see us before you go.
John, I suppose I am taking an awful chance in writing to you after reading this piece in the globe but as the other party in the case does not know me I feel safe.1 No doubt you have heard from Marge in Camden N.J., she is having a dandy time, had a card Saturday saying she is coming home this week.
Well John as I am tired after my strenuous afternoon, will close now with best wishes, hoping to hear from you when you have time. believe me, as ever,
Your friend
Katherine C.
1Attached to this letter was the following clipping.
He Arrived at 8:30- Bond Holder at 11:30
The youngest owner of a Liberty Bond made his appearance only yesterday at 8:30. The bond bearing his name was purchased at 11:30.
Edward James Hogan, the infant son of Mr. and Mrs. John Edward Hogan, the infant son of Mr. and Mrs. John Edward of 10 Humphrey pl Dorchester, and both he and his mother are doing well.
Mrs. Hogan is well known in the theatrical profession as Miss Mabel Bennett, and has entertained thousands with her dancing. Mr. Hogan is a talented musician
Still West End
June 16, 1917
Friend Kitty,
Your welcome letter received and glad to hear from you. I have received some cards from Marge and I’m glad she is enjoying herself.
No Kitty I am not that party’s father but you see we are all patriotic in someway. Our regiment, the eighth was not in the parade and I don’t know when we will he called out but I hope not for a couple of weeks anyway till after I celebrate my birthday
I will certainly go over to see you before I go away as I wouldn’t think of leaving so good a friend as you without bidding good-bye.
Things have quieted down where I am now and running smoothly. How is Marge Tully? Tell her I send my regards.
Well Kitty even though I haven’t wrote lately don’t think I had forgot you because I always have you in mind. I was talking to Jimmy Sullivan about two weeks ago and asked him if he saw you Sundays at church
Hoping you are enjoying the best of health and to hear from you again soon. Any night you would like to go to Moseleys where they have glide dancing just let me know the time and place to meet you. My time is always open to you. As ever
Your friend
John E Hogan
Chelsea June 29, 1917
Friend John:-
Your letter received and of course was glad to hear from you. Will certainly enjoy a trip to Moseleys as I haven’t been to a dance for a long time (now ain’t you sorry you ask me) but, on the leve,l will try to make my feet behave.
What, do you say, about Tuesday night, that would be a good way to celebrate the night before the 4th don’t you think so? John, if that is convenient for you, will meet you about 8.15, at Milk St, where we can take the elevated, but if it is raining heavy we can go Wed. night instead, anyhow let me know which made you think the best.
Marge was over to see me tonight, said she had a wonderful time. I did not say anything about going to the dance, will explain why, when I see you. Trusting this arrangement is satisfactory, I am
as ever
friend Katherine
Boston Mass
July 9, 1917
Friend Kitty
How are you feeling after your vacation? I suppose you are all rested up for the summer now.
Well Kitty I feel like going out Moseley’s again and if you have no engagement for Wednesday night and care to go I would be pleased to take you.
I suppose you have called Marge B. and got an earful about the night before the 4th.
Kitty if you can’t go out Wednesday night right me, or telephone 72299 Haymarket between 730–745 Wednesday night. If I don’t hear from you will be at the Milk St. station at 8.15.
Hoping you are well and to see you will close as ever
Your friend
John E Hogan
Tell your mother I was inquiring for her and hope she is well.
J.E.H.
July 30 1917
Friend Katherine
I was unable to go up to the dance tonight but I could not have left the party so I was not disappointed I will try to get a leave of absence tomorrow or Wednesday and call over about 630 or 7 o’clock as I will probably have to be back at 10 o’clock and it takes about two hours to get back. I have been all over the town 3 or 4 stores and about six train stop here. Hoping to hear from you soon. Some soldier huh? as ever your friend John E Hogan
Lynnfield Mass
Aug 8 1917
Friend Kitty
Hoping you got home OK. I wish to thank you for your nice package I opened it yesterday and enjoyed contacts immensely. Sorry not to have been able to show you around.
We had to stay on guard till 530 Monday night. I was up to Boston Monday night and down to the pier last night and just had time for three dances. I’ll try to see you tomorrow Thursday night if nothing comes up to prevent my getting away. Hoping to see you I am as ever your friend John E Hogan PS Regards to your mother
Westfield Mass
Sept. 24, 1917
Friend Kitty
I arrived here about 1.30 this afternoon and was transferred to Co B Depot department and my old captain recommended my discharge to the new company captain. I wouldn’t want you to come down here for a farm. It is some wilderness and it took me about an hour tonight find my street. I went visiting some of my own company friend and was looking an hour from my street when I started back. The 103rd regiment left this afternoon and I guess they will be going across before the end of the week. If I get a discharge I will have to wait a week or two but I hope to see you before Columbus Day. Give my regards to mother and with best wishes will close as ever your friend Johnnie PS. Nothing said about not coming right back and didn’t have to go to the guard house. Johnnie
Westfield Mass Sept. 26, 1917
Friend Kitty
Hoping you got my letter from here. I haven’t called before the board yet for examination and will probably be here two or three weeks.
This is some place in about 12,000 or 15,000 troops here. The company I was with is twice as large now and expect to leave here tonight. I have been visiting them since I left for the Depot Brigade where I was transferred to. Hoping to hear from you soon and that you are feeling well with regards to mother. I will close as ever your friend Johnnie
Depot Brigade 8th Infantry Mass Co B
Westfield Mass
Sept. 28, 1917
Friend Kitty
I am still waiting to hear and believe me it is some strenuous time I am having. Had 28 hours on guard yesterday and nothing but work plenty. We have moved to a part of the camp where the 103rd regiment left and with the small crowd we have in our regiment have to do just as much work as if they were 5 or 6 thousand. 104th is all gone but to battalions and are either at Hoboken or on their way across. They are giving those who are waiting discharges 10 days furlough and I will probably take one if the work keeps on piling up. I might have to go on guard again tonight or tomorrow night. My eye is much better and could see the moon clearly last night. I went to a show they gave in camp last night and so was as good as given in Scollay Sq Olympia. Well Kitty O will close hoping to hear from or be up to see you soon. Will close as ever with regards to mother.
Your Friend
Johnnie
Depot Brigade 8th Infantry Co B Westfield Mass
Westfield Mass
Sept. 30, 1917
Friend Kitty
I am still waiting for the board to examine my eye. Will probably be here two or three weeks as some of the boys have been waiting for over a month for their discharge. We expect about 3000 men next week from Ayer. I am on guard again to-night after 3 hours this afternoon. Nothing but work all the time. We signed the pay-roll this afternoon and will get some money in about ten days if we are lucky. Quite a few people were up here to-day and some who were just rubbering around got soaked. Hoping to hear from you soon will close with regards to mother.
Your Friend Johnnie
Excuse paper as I am writing you this letter in the tent where I am telephone orderly.
Johnnie
Co B 8th Mass Infantry
Chelsea Mass
Oct 3, 1917
Friend John
Just a line you are well also to ask if you got my letter and package. Your last letter did not read as if you did and wondering if they were addressed right then I wrote it just as you had it in letter. I will just put my name on this so it will be returned to me.
Does your eye feel any better and are you still waiting to go before the board. Am going to Taunton and if I like the place might stay there. (Can you imagine me away from home.) Hoping everything will turn out alright will close with best wishes
Your friend
Katherine
Westfield Mass
Oct 3, 1917
Friend Kitty
Your letter received and glad to hear from you. We are certainly getting all that is coming to us in the line of work and I heard they wasn’t going to give many discharges until they get some more men down here to do the work.
I have asked for a ten day furlough but don’t know whether I will get it or not.
Everything is quiet now outside of work since the rest of the boys left. We are the only regiment on our side of the tracks now and only about 175 men including officers. Has Marge T. got a new vision? Give my regards to Marge B. if she comes over. I hardly feel like doing anything but going to bed after dark now after we get through our day’s labor. Hoping to hear from or see you soon will close as ever
Your friend Johnnie
Westfield Mass
Oct 4, 1917
Friend Kitty
Just a few lines as they are about to collect the mail for to-night and they haven’t much time to get it in. I didn’t receive your package and only one letter up to to-night’s. My eye is a little better and I am still waiting to go before the board.
They don’t want to let us till some more men arrive to do the work around here. I am feeling well outside of my eye and hope you are well and give my regards to mother. Hope you have a good time at Taunton . Will close as ever
Your friend Johnnie
Westfield Mass
10/6 1917
Friend Kitty
Just a few lines to let you know I am still waiting for my finals and don’t know anymore about them now than when I arrived up here. You will pardon my last letter as they were just going to collect the mail and I had to make it fast. Now Kitty I have just received two letters and no package up todate October 6 at 11.00 A.M. we had some rain up here last night and stayed in the tent all night. I haven’t outside of the grounds since I struck the place. I hope you enjoy your trip to Taunton to-morrow and to hear from you soon. Would rather get over to see you and hope to not have to stay here much longer. You had better put your name and address on all mail so in case we move or I am shifted are gone home it will be returned to you. Hoping everything is OK and to see you by Columbus Day. Excuse dirt on paper as everything is dusty around here even after the rain. Give my regards as ever to your mother
Your friend Johnnie
Co B 8th Mass Infantry
Chelsea Mass
Oct. 7 1917
Friend John
I just got home from Taunton, had a dandy time and think it is a very nice place but was glad to get back to mother and dear old Chelsea. I am sorry you didn’t get the candy and cigarettes. I addressed it just as you wrote in second letter you sent but I noticed you changed it a little since then, what’s the idea. I mailed a package to 27th and also also a letter, then wrote you on Sunday and the following Tuesday and you say you only got one letter. What do you suppose happened to the others my address was on package but of course never expected they would return anything that looked like candy.
You asked me to give your regards to Marge B. I’ll certainly do that little thing for you but can’t say at this writing when I’m going to see her. I believe it is almost 3 weeks since she was over. I called her up two weeks ago Saturday and told her at that time I would call her up some night, haven’t done so yet, as they have been keeping me very busy lately.
I hope you will get the furlough as I would like to see you. I know you must be awful tired being on guard so much and you will need a good rest when you get back. I must write a letter to Annie so I will close now hoping to hear from you soon. I am as ever
your friend
Katherine C.
Westfield Oct 9 1917
Friend Kitty.
Glad to hear you enjoyed your trip and decided not to stay. I have been up three days in succession and have not been examined yet. I hope to be by the end of the week and will ask for a furlough. I don’t want to ask for one till I go by the board. I have received a couple of letters from the boys at the Fort Hospital and they seem please I wrote as I promised as all the rest that left never dropped even a card. I haven’t any news and I’ll close as ever with regards to your mother.
Your friend
Johnnie
Could find no trace of the package.
Chelsea Mass
Oct. 9, 1917
Friend John
I received your letter and card – glad to hear you are well and wish they would let you come home.
It must be very pretty up that way, why don’t you navigate around and see the place, are you afraid you’ll get lost again? Have any more troops arrive the camp. I suppose when they do you will perhaps get a furlough. Margaret J. has another vision he is not a new one though and it is not a steady affair, just a case of once in a while-but it is all off forever with Bill. I feel sorry for him as I know he more than likes Margaret.
We were given a surprise at my place of business-Mr. Millar and Mr. illegible made a little speech telling us of a profit-sharing scheme that went into effect Oct 1st. You see 60 cases of shoes (36 pr. in a case) must leave the factory every day to cover expenses, all over that amount means profit, which they will share with employees $3.00 being allowed for each case over 60 and to be divided every three months. We will have a party on the first returns. They treat us pretty good – don’t you think so John. I see in the paper tonight that they are trying to have the fares reduced for the soldiers at Ayer. I didn’t call Marge B. up yet – I suppose she thinks I left the world.
I guess that will be all for this time, hoping the eye is getting along good and to see you in the near future, with best wishes I am as ever
Your friend
Katherine
North Carolina 10/21/17
Friend Kitty
Hope you receive the cotton safe and sound. I am feeling fine and enjoy the place much better than Westfield. Hope the curtain rods in good condition. Went on a walk around the camp today and had some snapshots taken. More troops arrive from Westfield today. Sixth regiment and some of the New Hampshire.
Having any news about papers since I was examined last Wednesday. Eyes improving a little. Hope I am able to get away soon. Would be glad to get over to see you. We walk around in our shirt sleeves daytimes. How would you feel going to work without your coat to-day. I hope the pictures come out well and we’ll have some funny ones to show you. If I do get away.
Nice people here and had an auto ride today. Will send some views of the place when I have been around the city soon. Hope mother is feeling better now and give her my regards. Hoping to hear from you soon will close as ever
Your friend
Johnnie
Absents-you know
Westfield Oct 23 1917
Friend Kitty
I arrived safely at camp last night and never slept a wink it was so cold. I signed my discharge papers this morning and will be home again for good in a couple of days or a week or so. This place is some lonesome looking place since they took down the unoccupied tents. The frost looked like snow on the outside of the tents when we got up. It was the coldest night they have had up here yet. Everything comes my way. Illegible. Well Kitty I hope it is only a matter of a few days and then we can go up and see a good show. I collected my money to me till Oct. 1, and can’t afford to celebrate. Hoping to see you soon will close as ever with regards to mother
Your friend Johnnie
Co B 8 Mass Inf.
Chelsea Mass
Oct. 24. 1917
Dear Mickey
Your letter received and I’m certainly glad to hear you signed your papers and will soon be home for good. Has the eye improved any since? Also hope your knee is better. It has been pouring rain all day and was very dreary, it must be awful I camp, I have been thinking of you and hope you won’t get a cold. Have you any guard duty wish that on you yet?
As this is “Liberty day” I suppose you bought a few bongs seeing that you were presented with a roll. If it had been a pleasant day they said we could have the afternoon off, and what do you know, we were given another raise of 5 percent and will get it this week it was some surprise on the level they sure treat us fine. I don’t think I would leave on a bad. Well John, as I really having any news or close now, hoping to see you soon, I am as ever with best wishes one of your “Kitties”
Westfield Oct 25 1917
Friend Kitty
Well Kitty I am still waiting but they are using me as a gentleman so far. We certainly got some rain up here yesterday from 7.00 AM. till 9 PM. I never left the tent only for meals. Six or seven tents were blown down and the street was like a flood. I hope to be home by Sunday if my luck is with me. I filled my downy little pillow that Marge gave me with some Pine needles just as I thought. I could’ve stayed home till next Wednesday as they had extended my furlough and we’re going to send the papers for me to sign. Not much doing so well close with best wishes and regards to mother.
Your friend
Johnnie
Westfield Oct 26 1917
Friend Kitty
I am still on the job and being used as a guest except at noon to and being used as a guest except at noon to-day when they had me on the dirty pans. I haven’t had to go on guard since I come up here this time. I am feeling fine and didn’t get any cold out of the rain we had. To-day was a grand day up here and I went around without any coat.
I am glad to hear you got another increase in salary and that they are using to help well. They didn’t hang any Liberty Bonds on me yet. I hope I get away by Saturday but might be here next Saturday the way things run with me.
Dear Mickey is in the jug for 20 days for beating it for nine days. We were planning on going to a big dance Wednesday night but it was pouring as hard as it did all day. I haven’t any rifle to take care of and just a few things to spread out on my cot at inspection. Well the one Kitty I will close as ever with best wishes and hoping to see you soon. Regards to mother
Your friend
Johnnie
I am still on the tin & lead foil job.
Westfield Oct. 28 1917
Friend Kitty
I am still waiting and they are beginning to use me as a common soldier. I am on guard tonight and have washed dirty pans yesterday and today. Had a little better luck this morning and found where they had mass and went at 9 o’clock. I hope I get my paper soon cause I think the Sergeant will rub it into me because I went to the Captain to see if I was supposed to go on guard and he sent for him and I still had to go on. He will hand me everything in the line of guard and work but I hope it won’t last more than this week.
Hope you’re feeling well and to surprise you by walking in some night. Everything is quiet and somewhat cold up here and all wondering when and where they are going from here. I am feeling fine and hope you and your mother are the same. Well close with best wishes as ever. Your friend
Johnnie
Westfield Oct 30 1917
Friend Kitty
I am still here and hoping to get away as soon as possible. It is like a swamp to-night after the rain. This is as far as I I’ve been today. YMCA tent. Yes I have to do guard now like the rest and also some pans. I hope you are well and that mother’s rheumatism is a little better. Are you going to a Halloween party tomorrow night. I guess I will surprise myself at the length of time I will have to stay here, but I hope it won’t be too long. Hoping to see or hear from you soon will close as ever
Your friend
Johnnie
Chelsea Mass
Oct 30, 1917
Friend John
I am writing a few letters to-night and of course you are on the list. Perhaps you may be on your way home by the time this arrives in Westfield, in that case I suppose they will return it. You will kindly tell me what is the idea in keeping you up there so long. I guess they like the way you wash the pans and want to keep you on the job. I am glad you are well and wish you were home. I am feeling fine and have been out nearly every night, you see cousin Margaret is still with us so I took advantage of it. Went down to see Mary Pickford last night and Rebecca of Sunnybrook farm and liked it very much and am going to see the “Passing show of 1917” at the Shubert, Friday night. I hear it is some show.
I haven’t heard from Marge B. yet. I noticed a sign on the beach card today, glide dancing every Wednesday at Crescent Garden ain’t you glad John. I wonder if your friend will be on the job you know who I mean (ask him now)
Well, I’ll close now hoping to see you soon, I am as ever
Your friend
Katherine
Westfield, Nov 1 1917
Friend Kitty
You’re welcome letter arrived the A.M. I’m glad to hear you’re enjoying a few evenings and knowing everything is OK at home while you are out. Wish I was going to the Shubert with you I know about Wednesday nights at the Crescent Garden as Kelly Orchestra is going to play. I am as much I’ll see about when I will be able to get away from here for good I was when I came up here but hope it won’t be much longer. It is quite cold nights and mornings and ice half an inch thick in a tub I failed to wash out some clothes and left out all night. Marge B. must very busy sociably and might have a new vision. How is mother’s rheumatism? Tell her I was asking for her and hope she is feeling better. It is dreary now up here and certainly will be glad when I beat it. Well Kitty hoping to be able to see you soon will close with best wishes as ever.
Your friend
Johnnie
Chelsea Mass
Nov. 1, 1917
Friend John
Just a few lines to say that as surpriser you are not there. You surely are playing a waiting game, but cheer up, they can’t keep you much longer. You never tell me how the eye is getting along, I hope it is better. I have been away ahead of myself this week, thought to-day was Friday and got a shock when I discovered my mistake.
I had a card to day from Marge B. said she would try and see me soon, if she knew I had a week off I will get a call down for not going over so mum is the word, John.
Did you manage to go to mass this morning? I went at 5.30 with blinking eyes was just waking up when it was time to come home. I’m so tired tonight I can go to sleep without rocking, still I am going out for a little while so will make this short hoping you will be home by Sunday. I am, as ever with best wishes
Your friend
Katherine
Westfield, Nov. 4, 1917
Friend Kitty
Just to say I am still on the job and I will admit I was a surprise or I am a failure as yet. My eye is just about the same. They are talking of moving soon to someplace and I may get away this week. It is not getting any warmer and I will be glad to get away from here. My papers and move some last week and they may push them along a little faster on account of the talk about moving. Has Marge B. come over yet? Regards to Marge T. Hope that your mother is feeling better. Not much doing up here since last Sunday when we all answered fire-call to put out a grass fire that was spreading towards headquarters. I am getting some guard and lots of pan work. Well Kitty not having anything else except to say that I would like to be over in your parlor just now instead of this Y.M.C.A. tent. Hoping to hear from or to see you soon will close as ever
Your friend
Johnnie
Chelsea Mass
Nov. 5 1917
Friend John
Just a few lines to let you know I am still waiting for that surprise, so you see you are not the only one who is waiting. It must be awful cold up there. I was reading yesterday the wind had blown down some tents and conditions were anything but pleasant and the boys were sighing for a warmer climate.
I wish they would have a heart and send you home. I looked for you yesterday but one at 7.30 you had not made your appearance knew you would not come.
Cousin Margaret is leaving us tomorrow so that puts an end to me going out every night but I don’t mind as I had a few good times and they will keep me up for a while.
The passing show was wonderful. I wish I could tell you all about it was sorry you were not with us as I know you would have liked it.
Mother didn’t feel a bit well those rainy days as the rheumatism was very troublesome but is fine now thank you. I was told last night the sensor is to be on the job at camp Devens this week. How about Westfield?
John, you came in the air being minus one of your friends. I was bringing up some coal and wood last night and had a lamp with me, tripped over a piece of coal on the stairs and struck my head. I suppose it would have broken if it wasn’t solid mahogany the lamp fell but didn’t break, say what the freight I got and consider myself very lucky to by I’m just a big lump on my head. I was glad Mother was in the front room and did not hear the noise so I did not tell her as she would only worry. I went down to my cousins and they bathed it for me. I didn’t go to work today and expect a bawling out in the morning, but I should worry, if they say too much I’ll walk out again.
Hoping you are well and will soon come home for good, I’ll close with best wishes from all
Katherine
Westfield Nov. 6 1917
Friend Kitty
You’re welcome letter was read over about six times. I am still here and my papers were not made out right or something to that effect and had to be returned and started over again. I hope they come by the end of this week and I am able to say goodbye to this place. We are taking out insurance up here not add about half the rates charged by the insurance companies. Not much to write about so will close as ever
Your friend
Johnnie
Westfield Nov. 7 1917
Friend Kitty
Your welcome letter received and glad to know someone is waiting for me to get away from here besides my mother. Sorry to hear you hurt yourself and glad that it was not serious. It certainly is cold up here now and I can hardly sleep nights. Wake up about 3 o’clock morning and keep shifting from one side to the other to try to keep warm. I dropped a line to Marge B. yesterday.
Glad you enjoyed the show and hope we can see as good a one when I get home. Oh! How I wish I was going to the Crescent Gardens to-night. As I said in my last letter something went wrong with my papers and they had to start them over again but I hope they get away inside of another week. Also glad that the weather agrees with your mother. My mother sent a telegram asking if I was sick. I wrote Sunday night and they wasn’t delivered till Tuesday I guess.
Well Kitty hoping to be over inside of a week I will close as ever with best wishes
Your friend
Watch your step
P.S. my eye is just about the same thank you.
Chelsea Mass
Nov. 9, 1917
Friend John
I am writing this on my dinner hour so will only have time for a short letter. I got your letter yesterday afternoon was pleased to hear from you but I’m sorry you are so uncomfortable you won’t be lucky if you don’t get cold. What a shame there was a mistake made in your papers. Perhaps there were trying to keep you up there. I haven’t seen or heard from Marge B. Marge T. sends her regards hoping to see you soon will close with best wishes.
Your friend
Katherine
Westfield Nov. 10, 1917
Friend Kitty,
Your package received OK and certainly enjoyed the contents. I would’ve wrote only I was expecting to be home by now but the papers haven’t arrived yet. We are putting the surplus baggage board free trains today so we will be moving to-morrow or Saturday. I may have to go along with the company if the papers don’t arrive in the meantime. Nothing much outside of plenty of work packing cases and barrel with what is not needed for a few days. Hoping that to have to go with clothes ever
Your friend
Johnnie
Westfield Nov. 11, 1917
Friend Kitty,
I guess I will be here for quite a while yet as I have been told I might have to be examined again as the papers seem to have been lost somewhere “in America”. They are using me a little better now. No pans in only three times on guard so far. Believe me I will certainly be thankful when I do shake this hoodoo outfit for good. The days are quite nice but “oh” you cold nights. I can feel my legs turning in wood it’s so long since I tripped them fantastically, whatever that is. My eye is just the same as when I came back. I have been down to Westfield to the Strand Theatre six or seven times but I haven’t took any chances on the dances. How is your mother feeling? Give her my regards. I got a sweater needed by a fellow 17 years old in Charleston, Maine period he was sick all summer and made it on the sweater to do his bit. Well Kittty hoping to see you before Thanksgiving will close with best wishes as ever
Your friend
Johnnie
Chelsea Mass
Nov. 12 1917
Friend John
Your letter received and sorry to hear I won’t see you as soon as I had hoped to, but surely you would be home this week. Do you think they are stalling about the papers being lost and holding you to see if the eye gets better. I read in yesterday’s paper they are leaving Westfield this week for a warmer climate. If your papers don’t arrive in the meantime will you have to go with them? I had a letter Saturday from March B. she said she is coming over to see me this week.
Mother does not feel very well this week but she is up and working the same as usual. John, I would like to see you very much but as it can’t be done and sending quotation “Doris and Pat (tie)” up to see, they had a “date” with a couple of my pals so send them together hope they will arrive O.K. I would have sent some candy before now only I expected you home from day today.
Glad to hear you have a sweater also that you are able to go to theater once in a while, of course I know you would rather dance but just keep up your courage boy, you will perhaps get away sooner than you think, and then you can pay up for lost time hoping to hear from you I will close with best wishes from mother and
Friend
Kitty
Westfield Nov. 17, 1917
Friend Kitty
I am going to go south with the company. I will have to get my papers down there. We are all ready to go and will start about 5 or 6 o’clock. Well right as soon as we arrive. Hoping to see you in a couple of weeks. Received a letter from Marge B. to-day . I’m writing these few lines on the grounds. All tans and everything gone to train. Will close with best wishes as ever
Your friend
Johnnie
Chelsea Mass
Nov. 22, 1917
Friend John
Your welcome letter received to-day and I am glad you are well and that you enjoyed the trip. The card and views arrive Tuesday. You were thoughtful to send them and I certainly appreciate it. I always had a desire to see New York but now I will have to add Washington to the list. It must be a wonderful city. (did you say it’s a long walk from Chelsea) I’m glad you like I cam, it must seem good to have a nice place after the freezings you got it Westfield. I bet all the boys were glad to leave there.
How was your eye getting along and do you expect to be examined again? Will be anxious to hear how you make out. Did your friend George get his discharge papers yet or is he also on the waiting list like yourself. I am told that all the draftees who were exempted or discharged are being recalled so I see where Bill Scott is in line for Ayer. They are not so strict now in the examinations and say it doesn’t matter about poor teeth and as for a flat seat they will treat them and make them like new. The fellow upstairs is now a first class yeoman, he has a very good education and wants working in Chelsea trust Bank, I think he was one of the directors.
Marge B. was over to see me last week and of course I got my car all down as usual for not visiting her but as a visitor I’m N.G. she was asking for you and Margaret T. -also sends her regards. I just emailed some candy and cigarettes which I hope you will get. My mother is not feeling very well today but I really think the weather has a lot to do with it as it has been raining all day. She sends her best wishes and hopes to see you soon and hear all about your trip. Well John, as I am a bit tired to-night will close now hoping to hear from you soon, I am, as ever
Your friend
Katherine
Charlotte N.C. Nov 25, 1917
Friend Kitty
Just to say I received your welcome letter and will probably receive the package to-morrow for which I thank you. My eye is a little better but I don’t know whether I will have to be examined again or not. Give my regards to both Marges. I wish I was home for Thanksgiving but will be the in spirit. We are having a cold spell here and it is about the same as when we left Westfield now. But the wooden floors and the walls make quite a difference in the tens. I am enclosing proof that it can be done, he had ever so painful. My friend George is here, also two other West End boys who joined the 5th Mass to get out of the draft. Hope mother is having better weather for her rheumatism. Went to mass at St Peter’s at First and Tryon Sts. You do you know where that is.
We expect the feed Thursday lol surprise or stomach and I are going to have a menu. I was the theater last night and looked around some. Did a lot of shopping in the 5 and 10 Woolworths Well Kitty hoping to be able to waste an arm by Christmas will close with best wishes as ever with regards to you and mother
Your friend
Johnnie
PS also enclosed a little folder of Charlotte NC
Chelsea Mass
Nov. 25, 1917
Friend John
Just a few lines to let you know the letter cards and cotton arrived OK yesterday morning. The cotton is quite a curiosity to me and what a grand side it must be to see fields of a growing. A little far when you left home here in October that you would be in the midst of it.
I’m glad your eye is improving, also to hear you like the people in the place. Have you met a dark eyed Susan yet that you’d be willing to stay south for. You seem to have a little doubt about getting away, that would be a shame after looking forward so long to coming home, but I suppose what is to be, will be and you’ll have to make the best of it, but I do hope you can get away. Say John how are you for sugar down there, we haven’t got a green we have been getting a pound each week (we always used six) this week did not even get a pound, haven’t had any homemade pie or cakes for ages. All we can hear even in church is weedless, meatless and sweet lives days. I suppose next year will be even less days of course that would be all right for the fat Hannas who need to reduce spot for people like yours truly it would be a calamity. We are having a mass Thanksgiving day for all the boys of our parish now in the service and after mass they are to on Friday service flag. I am not sure of the number of stars as all the names were not sent in. The flag cost $35.00 and we were requested this morning to put in a little extra donation to pay for it. Mother is fine to-day, intended to take her out, only it is quite cold so she decided not to go. We are going to be regulars for Thanksgiving and our dining out.
I don’t suppose you will be home so I’m sending a little pic on, hoping they won’t be crumbs when they arrive at Camp Greene.
Well John hoping everything will turn out alright and to hear from you soon, will close with best wishes, as ever.
Your friend
Katherine
Charlotte N.C. Nov. 26 1917
Friend Kitty
Your package received to-day and certainly enjoyed the contents. It is a little warmer today but was quite cold getting up this morning. I haven’t heard any more about my papers and I’m beginning to think they may not let me go after all but transfer me to the hospital as an orderly. I hope so she is not the case and that they sent me home by Christmas. Hope that mother is feeling a little better to-day, also that you are well and happy. We are going to have some spread Thursday. What did you think of the picture? Hoping to see you sooner than I expect to from the looks now will close as ever
Your friend
Johnnie
Charlotte N.C. Nov. 26 1917
Friend Kitty
Your letter received today I’m glad to hear from you. We have plenty of sugar down here I’m sorry you can’t get it at home. We are going to have quite a time Thursday. Athletic events of all kinds and basket and football games. I am sending you a little souvenir under separate cover. They are using me pretty well now only been on guard one since we landed here. I’m knocking on wood. Now much to write about since I wrote last so will close. Hoping they are having good weather for mother’s sake. As ever
Your friend
Johnnie
How’s my Caroon?
Chelsea Mass
Nov. 29, 1917
Friend John
I’m writing these few lines before going out so you will get it Saturday. I received your letter and cards and I’m glad you are well and hope this will be a very pleasant day for you and that you will enjoy the swell seed they are serving. Sorry you cannot come home but hope you will be able to soon. Charlotte must be quite a nice place judging from the views you sent me. (outside of washing clothes.) Some snapshot, you will regret sending it as I am saving up a lot of things for you to wash when you get back, now that I have proof that it can be done. I called Marge B. last night, she is fine, and could almost see wings on her after making a mission last week, she is coming over some night next week, I wish you could come too.
We had a snowstorm yesterday started about 7.15 and let up about 3.30 but this is a grand day. I tried to help mother this morning and she was doing a little cooking in case we wanted something to eat when we got home so I started in by sharpening a knife they come with but the only carving I done was my finger. I found myself getting weak and thought if I could get to a chair I would be all right. I just sat down and that’s all I knew for a while. I gave mother a scare, but it isn’t a very bad cut I only it bled a lot, it is fine now. John, do you remember that wild kid cousin of mine the boys were chasing one Sunday afternoon you were here he was telling me the photo in the next house to him is in your company. I wonder if you know him, I think his name is Harry Davis.
I will close now, John, hoping to hear soon that you’re coming home, with best wishes I am as ever, Sincerely
Your friend
Kitty
PS John, if there is anything you want that I could send you just let me know and I will gladly send it.
Kitty
Charlotte NC Dec 5, 1917
Friend Kitty
Your letter received yesterday and glad to hear you passed a pleasant Thanksgiving. Wish I was home guard on Marlborough Street at about #40. How could you think of me comparing here to dear old Boston. There is no comparison at all. Me for for home with cold etc. to here.
I have a little hope of being home for Christmas so it’s good luck. Maybe. A friend of the family sent me a box for Thanksgiving which arrives Dec. 4.
Yes the whole 8th regiment moved the whole four hundred. The band is running a dance downtown tonight but as the Y.M.C.A. ladies are going to furnish the ladies I renage. Besides I don’t know what style the dance here. Did the bale of cotton arrive safe? Has Marge B been over to see you since. We had a half holiday this afternoon and sports consisting of mule race, tug of war, relay race, 100 yd for 400 yd race and baseball between the officers. We had a nice afternoon. I haven’t been on guard only once since I came South. (wood). As I said watch your step. Hope to see you in the near future and say good-bye Charlotte will close as ever
Your friend
Johnnie
Charlotte NC Dec. 7, 17.
Friend Kitty
Your letter received to-day I’m glad you received the bale OK. I am still being used well and feel fine but not as happy as if I were home and could see you once in a while. You wouldn’t enjoy the surprise of walking in on you unexpected more than I would of being able to do it. I will probably receive the cigarette about Saturday as it takes almost a week for a package to get here. I thank you for your kindness and hope to be able to in-press it on you that I appreciate it when I get over to see you. It would be nice if you were only down here and we could go to a dance. There were about 35 girls at the dance last night at about 200 fellows so you see I didn’t miss anything by not going. Has Bill Scott been up for his second examination yet? I was reading how the boys at Ayer we’re plowing around in slush and glad I am here were it is a little warmer and not any snow is yet. They say they have a little snow but it goes away quick.
I got a letter from one of the boys at the hospital at Fort Strong and he expects to come down here. I hope if he does he arrives before I go. Well Kitty not having any news will close with best wishes to you and mother, who I hope is feeling well. As ever
Your friend
Johnnie
Undated letter envelope postmarked Dec 8 1917
Charlotte NC
Friend Kitty
Your letter received and sorry the best you could carve Thanksgiving was your finger. Hope it does not bother you so as you have to stay out of work. I received a package Saturday afternoon and certainly enjoyed it. We have moved since we landed here again. Almost 2 weeks on one street and we had to move down to the next camp to make room for some artillery companies that arrived Sat a.m. and as more are expected in a few days we’ll probably have to move again. I went to town to church and eat dinner uptown so as to keep away from camp. We are some regiment, five companies on one street now. They call us the One Ring Circus. The fellow you mentioned was in the company but he went over with the 104th regiment. How do you like your cotton? In bales? Some of the fellows are playing or beads, but that is not in my line. They go to services and get invited out to supper and dinner Sundays. As far as I can see the principle industry is agricultural. They have a few stocking emails but I have seen no factory of any importance yet. Downtown mostly stores and office buildings. Newspapers cost five cents Sunday and weekdays, my eye is a little better and I suppose after a week or two more will examine me again. Then wait two or three weeks more for to hear from it. I am still hoping to get away by Christmas but it looks slim as far as I can see now. Hoping mother as well and to hear from you again soon will close as ever
Your friend
Johnnie
You guys are both Marges
Didn’t I say watch your step?
Undated card envelope postmarked 12/8/1917
Friend John:
Just a few lines to let you know I received your letter Wednesday. I am glad you are well and that your eye is improving.
What are the chances of getting home for Christmas? If you don’t think you can come will you please tell me what you would like me to send. I suppose it should be mailed before the 15th to make sure you’d have it Christmas so let me know soon, and it will make things easier for me.
Shall write a letter Sunday. Hoping to hear from you soon, I am, with best wishes
Your friend
Katherine
Charlotte NC Dec. 9, 17
Friend Kitty
Would of wrote before but was waiting to see if cigarettes arrive safe but as they have not arrived today thought I would drop a line. I am well thank you I’m feeling fine. We are having a little New England weather. It was 23° above at 10.30 this morning on the way to church. We went on a little hike Friday. The whole 8th 6th and 5th Mass and 1st Conn regiments. Do you want about 12 miles before dinner. I am still waiting to hear from my papers. We get great service song parcel post packages as it takes about a week to get anything from Boston. How is the weather in Chelsea? I hope you and Mother are both enjoying good health and that’s the weather is right for Mothers rheumatism. I washed some things and hung them on the line outside the tent and in 10 minutes they were frozen stiff. They say they expect some of the drafts or me to fill out the regimen here soon. About 2000 have arrived this week ends are being put into the regular army outfits here. Well Kitty as I haven’t any more news a present or close hoping to see you before Christmas. But best wishes as ever
Your friend
Johnnie
Charlotte Dec 12 1917
Friend Kitty
Your always welcome letter received and sorry to say the package you sent has not arrived up to to-night Wed. So I wouldn’t send anymore as I think there must be some loose work going on somewhere as I was expecting another package sent from home which did not arrive either. I have good hopes of being home for Christmas as I was told my papers made another move. Only about 5 percent of the boys here are going to get their liberty but our company is going to have a big spread down town for all who are left in camp. Glad you have your cousins address and I know he will be glad to hear from you will tell you why the letters I write are not up to the standard when I see you. I know kitties you are not speaking for yourself but your thoughtfulness of me down here speaks for you. I have everything I need now till I leave so don’t waste anymore of your money and have someone else enjoy it on the way. Always thinking of you will close with best wishes and regards to mother. As ever
Your friend
Johnnie
Charlotte Dec 16 1917
Friend Kitty
Your letter received and glad to hear from you. As I wrote you in last letter it looks good for me being home in Boston Christmas Day. As I will expect be over to the house next Sunday to see you I am allowing a lot in my case. I hope you are well and mother is feeling better these days. We are having some good cold weather like in Mass here now. Have lots of hard work for exercise and will have a little rest when I do get home. We had a lot of pictures taken around and about and will show you some snow scenes in the Sunny South.
I am glad it is not long before I can call on you once in a while and pass some pleasant evening. Any evening spend in your company at home or out is pleasant to me. Kind of miss my kitty these lonely Sunday evenings. I can’t go to church for a feed so the excitement is team can hardly buy a soda cigarettes Sundays outside of camp. I have not received the cigarettes you sent week before last yet. Hoping to see you soon will close with best wishes to you and mother
Your friend
Johnnie
Charlotte NC Dec 19, 17
Friend Kitty
Your letter received and would’ve bro before I was expecting to be given my final papers but the way things are turning for me I may be home in a week and maybe a month. All that is holding me is the return of my check from the Camp Quartermasters. It has been in his office a week or more and may be lost and a new set will have to be made out if that is the case. I have a bunch of snapshots taken in camp and will make interesting looking over. I hope you and mother are well and that I will be able to see you by Christmas. Don’t send down any packages for me and save a lot of your time and unpleasant expectations. I haven’t received your package or one by a girls that Live across the street from me. Well Kitty hoping to be able to give you a good squeeze soon will close as ever
Your friend
Johnnie
Boston Mass
Feb 3, 1918
Fiend Kitty
I was thinking while coming over on the car about you saying you (you) censored might of been a little lonesome tonight and being as Annie is not home I thought there might be other nights you feel lonesome and would be only too glad to go over and spend the evening with you. Now Kitty I go up to Odd Fellows on Wednesday night but would enjoy the evening much better in your company than up there. Don’t think for a minute you would be taking me away from any friends as I only go up there to get away from the corner and kill time azurá nights I don’t dance more than two or three dances.
I am glad I know now why you said you might drop a card and want you to put that thought away as I enjoy any evening in your company better than any other evening of the week and look forward from one night to the next. Hoping to receive a line saying the coast is clear for Wed. night will close as ever
Your friend
Johnnie
Undated but postmarked April 30 1918
John
I suppose you will be surprised to get a note from me, as you never can tell I am apt to do next. (Now don’t get conceited.) I wish you would come over Thursday night if you have nothing else on your mind. Why? Will tell you later
As ever
Changeable Sal
Boston Mass
June 18.18
Friend Kitty
I got the tickets for to-morrow (Wed) night. Will meet you at the same place as before at 7.46 P.M. Boylston St., Station of the Subway exit. As ever
Your friend
Johnnie
Boston Mass
July 1, 1918
My Dear Kitty,
I am sorry to say that I will not be off Thursday. They are not going to let anyone off the 3rd or the 4th. I will be over Wednesday night and we can find someplace to go. I am going to get off Friday instead. Until then I will close as ever
Your friend
Johnnie
Boston Mass
July 9, 1918
My Dear Kitty,
I have to go to the dentist on the way from work tomorrow night (Wed) I might be late and getting over to start from my place. I’ve got two tickets for the only first class show in town, and will you please meet me at the Boylston St. exit of Subway at 8.15 P.M. as the show starts at 8.25.
Hoping for a more pleasant night and don’t buy any candy as I am having mother get me some. Will close for the present but best wishes, from your friend
Johnnie
Boston Mass
Aug. 5, 1918
Dear Kitty,
As long as you are going to have a couple days off I thought that Wed. night would be a good night for us to see Mitzi. It will save me from getting off of work early so I was like pass by I bought a couple of tickets. Will meet you at 8.00 o’clock at the same subway exit. Until I see you will close
Your friend
Johnnie
Boston Mass
Sept. 30, 1918
My Dear Kitty,
I just think at this moment I owe you one dollar so I’m enclosing it. I never thought of it till just now and I hope it arrives safe. Don’t mind how this letter locks because I am trying to write and listen to the phonograph human. Will close as ever
Your friend
Johnnie
Boston Mass
Nov. 4, 1918
My Dear Kitty;
Just a few lines to let you know I will certainly miss the pleasure of your company Wednesday night as I always look forward to each night I am to see you. As you said you meant it I didn’t ask why and hope it is not to continue thusly long.
No Kitty you are not taking me away from the crowd and besides if I cared to go any place with them, five nights is plenty of time. Hoping to get a line from you if not will be over Sunday night as ever
Your friend
Johnnie
Chelsea Mass
Nov 5, 1918
Friend John
Your letter received, was surprised to hear from you – and also at the idea of missing a pleasant evening. Now, about me telling you not to come over when I told you the reason but you did not seem to think it worthwhile asking, so therefore did not bother but I don’t want you to think I was peeved about anything for such is not the case. And I was to you going with the crowd I am sure if you I am sure if you care to go you would not let a little five foot fourer like me stop you.
Hoping your cold is better and that you were enjoy your day off, I am as ever
Friend Kathryn
P.S. if you care to come over Wednesday evening, I will be pleased to see you. Kitty
Boston Mass
Nov. 25, 1918
My Dear Kitty,
I was surprised to get your letter when I came from work and decided you were going away for the Holiday so I suppose I will have to wait till Sunday eve. Hope you spend a pleasant Thanksgiving. Will close as ever
Your Friend
Johnnie
P.S. Why? What have I done now? Johnnie
Chelsea Mass
Nov. 25, 1918
Friend John:
Just a few lines to let you know I wont see you Wed. night. I am writing this before going to work so we’ll have to make it short as it is now 8 A.M. so with best wishes for a pleasant Thanksgiving I am as ever
Katherine
Chelsea Mass
Dec. 17, 1918
Dear John:
As the chance for getting off Thursday, don’t look very good, I think your highness better come over Wed. night of course if you have dated up another Jane since I saw you last then come over Sunday night. Hoping your cold is better, and to see you tomorrow will close with best wishes
Katherine
Chelsea Mass
Jan. 13, 1919
Friend John:-
I suppose you will be surprised to get this note telling you not to come over Wednesday night (and perhaps a bit glad) Yes?
Marge Blandon was here tonight and I’m sending some tickets she asked me to give you, one of them to give your friend Mr. Murphy. She also wants you to go up Roughan’s Sat. night as she and Teresa are going up. She went to dance new year at Strand Hall and some fellow told them they should go to Roughan’s as a middle aged crowd went there. Hoping you have a nice time will close with best wishes
Katherine
Chelsea Mass
Jan. 13, 1919
Friend John:-
Thought I would write you another surprise letter and hope you pay more attention to it then you did the last one.
I have an idea that you think I’m sore on M.B. such is not the case and would not like you to be mad either. Now John I hope you go up Roughan’s Saturday and please treat M. as you always do. I would be sorry to have you act otherwise, and about the dance,( that is in regard to myself) you can say, I don’t care much for dancing and did not want to go. You can suits yourself about it and if you don’t want to go tell her you have made other plans for that night but don’t think it will make any difference to me which ever way you decide. I will admit I was quite peeled when I wrote that letter and really intended not to see you again, yeah I don’t blame M. as you were the cause of it all. I’ll tell you sometime what ruffled my swell disposition.
My mother gave me a great scolding this noon, she was surprised at me being so sassy to you last night, I tried to tell her that you understood I was joking but she couldn’t see it at all. She wanted to know the reason why I told you not to come over. I tried stalling and got misunderstood so I had quite a time of it.
I guess that will be about all for the present hoping to get a good report Sunday, will close with best wishes
Katherine
Boston Mass
Jan 17, 1919
My Dear Kitty.
Your surprise #2 received to-night. I will do as you say and hope my reports will be O.K. Sunday night.
I am sorry I was the cause of your getting a scolding from your mother and I hope it will never happen again.
I got a letter from Frankie last night and he is living on Our Steret.
Now Kitty I can’t understand why I’m not being there Monday night could be the cause of it all. If I have done or said anything that would make you feel as you did towards me then I don’t think it any more than right that you should tell me what it is. Hoping you will tell me Sunday night. Well Kitty how was your courage or the dentists. Hope he doesn’t hurt you and that you feel all right when you get through. Will be thinking of you about 3.15 tomorrow (Sat) afternoon.
Will close as ever
Your friend
Johnnie
Boston Mass
Mar. 13, 1919
My Dear Kitty.
Just a few lines to let you know I am feeling brand new. Had it pulled out at 4.00 o’clock this afternoon.
Kitty, will we go to a show (Saint Patricks) Monday night I have you someplace and views you would like me to go with you? Please let me know by Saturday night if we I’m going to the show so I can get a fairly good seat. With best wishes to my little sweetheart will close awaiting your reply. Of course this has nothing to do Sunday nights date and will be there with both feet, strong.
As ever
Johnnie
Did I get you guessing by the hand writing of the address on the envelope? Yes
Chelsea Mass
Mar 14, 1919
Dear John:-
Your surprise received this noon, and I’m sure glad you are feeling O.K. and parted from that troublesome to. I felt sorry when you told me it was aching in church, why didn’t you say something before we started and we could have scouted up dentist, but that’s the way, you never tell me what’s on your mind. Now, John, about Monday night, there isn’t any place special that I want to go, so you see that leaves you free to go up Roughan’s or wherever you wish to go. I will have to close now as I am going to church with best wishes from the girl you don’t understand
Kitty
Chelsea Mass
Mar 31, 1919
Dear John:-
Wow reading the paper this evening I noticed this announcement which you will find enclosed. I thought by sending it you might be saved needless walk as I don’t think we can do much for John Mc at the hour of 3:30 PM. Hope you are not disappointed for my part I don’t mind. We may have a chance to hear him some other time.
John, what do you say if we try the Waldorf Theater Sunday night or do you think Keith’s or the Boston would be better? I can meet you in town if you want me too. Write me a few lines and tell me what you decide to do, that is if you have time, and you know it is a long time till Sunday, so a letter will help some (get me?) Well I guess this is all for the present will close with best wishes
Kitty
This is the enclosed Clipping:
She- Yes, Jack, dear
The Khaki Gentleman-Jack! My names’ Harold!
She (who has numerous admirers-one for each day of the week) -O, yes, of course: I keep thinking this is Saturday. -Stray Stories.
Boston, Mass.
April 1, 1919
My Dear Kitty:
How do you say we will pass John at 3.30 PM Sunday. It’s about 6.30 will not be too early for you to get over to the city we will try the Waldorf as you have never looked it over . The show starts at 7.00 o’clock and if we don’t care much for the last picture we can leave a little early. Take any Tremont St. car at Scollay Sq. Subway Station and get off at Arlington Sq.
If this is a little too early let me know and we will take in Keiths. I think the Boston starts at 7.00 too.
Kitty I will feel a little lost tomorrow (Wed.) night and you said something when you said it would be a long week. Say a little prayer for me Wed. night. I will probably take in Saint Cecilia’s Wednesday night and see how it looks if they have all the lights on. I may see Margaret there. Well sweetheart there isn’t anything more just now so will close as ever.
Johnnie
P.S. Hope they are good to you on your bonus.
Chelsea Mass
April 3, 1919
Dear John:-
When you read this letter saying I decided not to go over to the show Sunday night, I suppose you’ll think me the most changeable girl in the world, but it’s just like this, whereas I have not been to any place of amusement during Lent, and there is only about two weeks more, I guess I won’t break the record.
We can take in a shell holiday if you are not going anywhere special. John, you can come over Sunday and if it is pleasant, will take a short walk. I didn’t write Marge B. yet as I expect to be quite busy Saturday. We have to work in the morning – the date with the dentist – at 2:00, after that -a wild time in the city trying to get a $10.00 hat for about 1.98
Discouraged about his suit before starting to look for one, a girl that works with me told me she was looking at a waist, (the price?) only 32.50
I suppose I might get a sleeve of a suit for 25.00. I got my checks Tuesday $10.60, altogether not so bad considering the way work has been. (now don’t laugh) I haven’t been late since, and I’m going to try to be on time mornings for a change
Just think, John, two letters in one week, fine for me. Yes? I’ll have to be rewarded when you come over, hoping you are well, and to see you Sunday
I am as ever,
Your little changeable girl
Kitty
Boston, Mass.
April 16, 1919
11.59 P.M.
My Dear Kitty:
Sunday is my day off if it is a pleasant day you could come over early and meet me and we could take a walk around and have supper over the city and taking a shower. I will get the tickets tomorrow (Thursday) night. I won’t call on Margaret till after Sunday so in case she calls on you, why then you can see how the chances are for a visit Friday the 25th.
You can drop me a ice big as you like letter and let me know what you think of this arrangement and where and what time to meet you.
If it a bum day why I could go over to the house for it would not be very pleasant walking around the city. Hoping for a nice sunny Sunday and to see my little sweethearts in her new suit over town will Close with best wishes.
Johnnie
Chelsea, Mass.
April 17, 1919
Dear John:-
As a surprise there, I’ll say you are. So you would like to meet me in town Sunday afternoon. (Weather permitting.)
Well dear, as I am the most agreeable girl in the world, (sometimes) will try to get over about 3:00, if that is too early let me know. You can meet me at Scollay sq. if it is not pleasant while you come over. We can call to see Margaret if you wish, should we happen to go in that direction. John, what do you think Grace asked me this noon? If I knew that Irene L. wasgoing to be married. I said yes and in order not to be considered somewhat sly, how to tell they called Sunday night to elect you as best man a girl that works with me saw them coming in, and I didn’t know but Grace might hear it so I played safe. I want to tell you though that I had nothing to say in regard to what Frank told me. She asked if he was a good fellow, and I said as far as I knew he was all right, Gray says Irene is a dandy girl and certainly deserves a good fellow. I hear the bridesmaid goes with Irene’s brother, so there will be two after your scalp if you’re caught cheating. Now will you be good. Hoping for a pleasant day on Sunday, will close with best wishes
Kitty
Boston, Mass.
April 19, 1919
12.00 A.M.
My Dear Kitty:
I forgot to ask you Margaret’s last name in case someone else should answer the bell and I would not know who I was looking for in case there should be another Margaret there. I will call on her some night on the way home from work. I am not going to enjoy my vacation I consider it in the line of penance, being it is holy week. I knew it was no use to try to get you to change your answer but hope to get a little card saying I can come over Wed. night. Drop me a line anyway and will close with best wishes as ever
Johnnie
Boston Mass
April 23, 1919
My Dear Kitty
Your card received and perhaps it was just as well as I am detaild to start guard at the Colonel’s office till a Major’s wife and three children arrive and see that no one gets in till they are seated and the building help are allowed in to see the parade and are liable to be wandering around the floor. I am on. I hope the day is pleasant and I have a chance to get away in time to go and see you at Margaret’s.
Now Kitty I have a feeling that you think I don’t want to go to a dance with you, but such is not the case. I was under the impression that the last time we talked about the dance you didn’t care about going as the Hall was kind of out-of-the-way and I thought they would play modern music. That is why I said I didn’t care about going. I certainly would only be to glad to go any place I thought you cared to go. You are the only one I have to think of and I do all I can to show you I am doing my best but sometimes I am misunderstood but hope you see me as I really try to be at all times. Hoping to get a nice letter from my little sweetheart and to see her Wednesday night will close for the present with best wishes from your
Johnnie
Chelsea, Mass.
April 24, 1919
7:30 A.M.
Dear John:-
Just a line to tell you I have decided not to call you up but if you are lucky enough to get off while you can go right to Margaret’s and will see you there. Hoping for a pleasant day and to see you I am as ever
Kitty
Boston Mass
May 2, 1919
My Dear Kitty,
I didn’t know whether I understood you right as to the entrance I was to meet you Sat. night. So as not to keep you waiting will meet you at Keiths, Tremont St. entrance. Of course you are getting blue marks all the week. Hoping your cold is better and a pleasant evening Sat. Will close with best wishes from your
Johnnie
Boston Mass
May 8, 1919
My Dear Kitty,
The letter received and glad you are still going strong. Only one more morning after you you receive my little letter.
You won’t mind getting up next week at 6.45 and look at all the blue marks you have now.
This has certainly been a long week and especially Wed. Night.
I won’t expect my little sweetheart to answer this letter and that Sunday is my day off will be over about six o’clock so I can pester her for an hour before we start for mechanics hall.
Hoping you are well and that mother and auntie are the same. Tell your mother I probably won’t bring that strap Sunday night. Well dear will close till 6 Sunday night with best wishes from your
Johnnie
Boston Mass
May 9, 1919
My Dear Kitty,
My little sweethearts letter received to-night and was surprised till I opened it. I thought maybe they were going to keep you going to Sunday night.
It certainly was the best little letter I ever received from you and hope you feel better after a hard week of early rising. You can have a nice little sleep Sunday morning as you can go to a later Mass.
I didn’t know what time that will keep you till, Sunday afternoon or I would of course say I will come over earlier.
No dear I want a little time to hug my little sweetheart after the longest week I ever spent and it is liable to be late when we get back from Boston so I am playing safety first.
Hoping six o’clock is not too early and to see my little girl feeling fine will close with best wishes from your lover
Johnnie
Chelsea Mass
May 9, 1919
My Dear John:-
I suppose you’ll be surprised to get this letter but when writing last I forgot to say that I could meet you Sunday night if you want me to and save you the bother of coming over, just tell me the time and the place.
Well, dear, I went to confession last night and I’m still living. I really felt nervous after the scoldings we got, why Tuesday night I thought he would break the pulpit and throw it at us. I know his hand must have been sore from pounding and I went to him to confession, was very nice, only asked me one question.
(Did you say my courage was good)
Will close now as it is time to work so with love and best wishes, as ever
Kitty
Boston Mass
May 22, 1919
My Dear Kitty,
I will be off Sunday and if it is a good day will drop over about 2.30 and we can take a little walk or ride. That is if you hadn’t planned on doing something yourself. If you have just drop me a line and I won’t come over till evening.
Hoping to have an enjoyable evening and perhaps a lot to tell my little sweetheart Sunday about the time.
Hoping you are well and to see you Sunday will close this ever your
Johnnie
Chelsea Mass
May 23, 1919
Dear John:-
Just a line to tell you I’ll be pleased to have you come over Sunday after-noon. I was going out but change my mind after your letter arrived as you know I would rather be with you than anybody else. No doubt you had a good time at the banquet and dance, and heard some interesting stories which you can pass along to yours truly. Hoping for a pleasant day so we can go out, will close with best wishes
Kitty
Boston Mass
May 25, 1919
My Dear Kitty,
I am sorry for being the cause of making my little sweetheart feel down – hearted as she did when I left to-night. I was honest with her and told her the truth I know she won’t believe me when I tell her it will not be repeated. I wouldn’t want my little girl to think that if I met Al that I would go out again and she can I hope trust me when I say a thing that I will keep my word. I hope you’re not tired after work and getting up at 4.30 A.M.
I hope Kitty that you will feel a little better when you know I feel sorry I will never give you the same cause to feel that way again. Hoping my little sweetheart will forgive me and to see her smiling Wed. night will close as ever with best wishes from your
Johnnie
Boston Mass
June 5, 1919
My Dear Kitty,
Nobody home again. Sunday is my day off and if it is pleasant and you can think of some little outing will be glad to go over or meet you anytime you say. I hope you are holding up under the heat.
Today certainly was a beauty and was thinking of my little sweetheart as I sat at under a window enjoying a little breeze. Hoping you are not melting away and to get a few lines, otherwise I won’t be over till night. Regards to mother, Annie and Margaret who I hope are not
Come over by the weather. I’m close with us wishes from your
Johnnie
Chelsea Mass
June 23, 1919
My Dear John:-
Finally telephone the reason of your coolness last night. If I said or have done anything to hurt your feelings, I am truly sorry. I’ve been wondering all day, and would really like to know in what way I offended you.
Kitty
Boston, Mass.
June 24, 1919
My Dear Kitty,
Your letter received and I must say you have done or said nothing to offend me but I didn’t intend to appear cool to my little sweetheart. Unless it was when we were out in the entry and then you know we had company that we didn’t invite
I have a little encouraging news. I put in a request for four days and the Chief and the Captain approved it and forwarded it to the Personnel Section for final verification.
How is the hot spell effecting yours truly.
Well dear hoping to make up for appearing cool Sunday night, to-morrow (Wed.) night, will close for the present as ever your
Johnnie
Boston, Mass.
June 26, 1919
My Dear Kitty,
You didn’t do anything now only as I am off Sunday thought if you wasn’t going anywhere why we could take a little ride out to Franklin Park and look over the illegible or to the Arboretum and see the trees and flowers. That is if it is pleasant. If it isn’t pleasant why I could pester my little sweetheart at home. If you had planned on doing anything why just drop me a line (never mind the hook) and I won’t come over till night.
If I don’t hear to the contrary will be over about 2.30.
Heard my request has been passed by personnel branch and should get word Sunday.
Well dear hoping you are able to stand the heat will close as ever your
Johnnie
Boston, Mass.
July 24, 1919
My Dear Kitty, no doubt you will be lonesome Saturday night and perhaps you would like me to go over and keep you company for the evening. I would be only too glad too and hope you drop me a line to come over.
Tell your mother I hope she has a nice time and pleasant weather. I only wish I was off Saturday night and would be able to stand guard for you.
You know I am used to guard duty and could wash any pans you might use Sunday. Well dear hoping for a few anyway will close for the presents with best wishes to my little sweetheart. As ever
Johnnie
Chelsea Mass
July 25, 1919
Dear John,
I am very glad you wrote saying you will come over Saturday night, as I certainly would be lonesome. I was going to ask you, Wednesday night, only I thought you might be going somewhere therefore said nothing about it as I wouldn’t want anyone to give up a good time on my account. Will have to make this short as I am going out. Hoping to see you Saturday
Kitty
Boston, Mass
July 28, 1919
My Dear Kitty;
I’ve been thinking of your mother all day and hope she was better this morning.
Hope you were able to keep a little cool at work. Some hot, yes. I’m close fine little clipping from American of 28th. As ever with best wishes
Johnnie
Chelsea Mass
July 29, 1919
Time 3.30 A.M.
Dear John,
A few lines as promised. Mother is quite sick at the doctor yesterday morning also the priest and she receives holy communion and was anointed. Thought it best to have the priest as of course one can never tell what might happen. The doctor is coming this morning so I’m hoping he will find a little improvement but I don’t see any change. Will try to write a few lines after he goes. Can’t write anymore just now
Kitty
Chelsea Mass
July 29, 1919
Time 11. A.M.
My Dear John,
Am just like a new girl as the doctor was here and gave some encouragement so I guess mother will be spared to us, thank God. Really, John having the priest helped a lot I think, and he said he would pray I will offer a mass for her.
I can go to work this after-noon I know they are having a fit cause I’m out but I should worry as you know my mother means more to me than my job. Well close now hoping to see you Wednesday night, as ever
Kitty
Boston Mass
Aug 4, 1919.
My Dear Kitty;
I just a few lines to say I hope there has been some improvement for the better.
Also hope the doctor gave you some encouragement.
If I don’t get any letter will figure there is an improvement or holding about the same but would like to see a big change Wednesday.
Will close for the present with best wishes to my little sweetheart.
Johnnie
Chelsea Mass
Aug 5, 1919
My Dear John:
I think mother is a little better to-night. We telephoned for a nurse yesterday after-noon to assist the doctor, they were here this morning and again this after-noon. The doctor says if they can get the gas out of the intestines she will be all right, so John, dear be sure and say a little prayer for her. The priest was here to-day also and my brother came to-night. He gave me a scolding insisted on me eating. It was against my wishes but it had to be done. Now, John I know you did not have a very pleasant time Sunday night I’ve been so upset and as I don’t want to bother anyone with my troubles I won’t ask you over Wednesday night. Of course if you want to come, will be welcome but I don’t think you care much about staying in the house which I will have to do.
Will close now hoping you are well and to have better news next time.
Kitty
Boston Mass
Aug 7, 1919.
My Dear Kitty,
I hope there is a big improvement in mothers condition after Dr. Powers called this morning.
Tell mother I was asking about her and I am saying little prayers for her each day. I know it will cheer her up a little and I am full of hope she will pull through and be able to be on her feet again.
Now Kitty I hope you have taken something to eat even though it is hard to do so.
I will call over for a little while Friday night.
Now Kitty if anything should make you short I don’t want you to be a bit backward with me, for you know anything I have is yours if you were only let me know. I know that at times like this it takes quite a little and want you to let me help you if you should need anything.
Don’t see you as though you were spoiling my evenings by not going out when I go over because I am only too glad to have your company under any condition. I will drop into insurance office on my way down town. Well dear hoping for good news Friday night will close with best wishes to my little sweetheart
Johnnie
Chelsea Mass
Aug. 7 1919
My Dear John
Mother is still with us I am putting up a bottle. She had a fairly good night, the doctor was just here and gave us some encouragement and hopes to have a lot of gas removed by morning. We will have to give her an enema every four hours. Keep on praying just the same John, and I will write again and let you know how she is getting along. Will close now with lots of love from your little girl
Kitty
Postmarked August 11, 1919
John,
Mother very weak this morning with no chance of getting better so the doctor told me this morning.
Kitty
Chelsea Mass
Aug 18, 1919
My Dear John
Will you come over Tuesday night if you are not going anywhere. I am awful lonesome.
Kitty
Boston Mass.
October 15, 1919
My Dear Kitty
Just a few lines to say that although I will not see you till Sunday I am thinking of you all the time.
Now Kitty as Mother is expecting you to the house Sunday, I will get over about 3.30 and you can come over with me for supper and we will be home by the time Annie gets in.
I will try to get some prunes and bacon and whatever jam I can.
Hoping my little girl is feeling well and to be all set Sunday clothes for the present
Your sweetheart
Johnnie
Chelsea Mass.
Oct 15 1919
My Dear John
I was glad to hear from you and it tears me up to know you think of me once in a while. I suppose you are wondering why I told you not to come over. I really can’t quite explain or describe my feelings, I am so blue and John how I miss my mother.
I had a card today from Marge B asking me why I didn’t write or if I had crossed her off my list.
John, I will be glad to meet your mother Sunday and hope she will like me. I forgot to pay you for the rolled oats and cherries but will do so Sunday. Use your judgment about the amounts of bacon, prunes, and jam as they will keep (if we don’t use them) and I just heard to-night the bacon is grand. As it is almost twelve, will close now hoping to see you Sunday with love
From
Kitty
Boston Mass.
Oct. 16, 1919
My Dear Kitty:
I was glad to get your letter and hope you are feeling a little better now. I know Kitty you are lonesome and given to thinking a lot when alone and want to be with you as much as possible to do what I can to try and cheer my little sweetheart up a little, I don’t want you to think I am forcing myself over if you don’t want me to go.`
Remember Kitty you are the only one that amounts to more than in sight in mind to me.
Well dear hoping to see you, and much cheered up Sunday will close as ever
Your sweetheart
Johnnie
I will try to, bring home the bacon.
Boston, Mass
January 15, 1920.
My Dear Sweetheart,
Wishing you all the pleasant returns of the day and may we pass many more together (as one) after this one. Until Sunday will say Au Revour, from your
Johnnie
Will collect the usual toll when I go over.
Boston Mass.
March 29, 1920.
My Dear Kitty,
It looks as though I will have to go on the 4 to 12 watch. I asked the chief if I would change and he said I would.
I told him if there was any chance to get on a regular day shift I would like to get it.
He said they were going to put on some specials the first of the month.
I felt as though I was asking a King for a favor and he was as sullen as ever.
It certainly will be a long lonesome week and if I am not over by 7.15 Wednesday night you will know I am not coming over. Write me a little letter that will help some to break up the week. Say a little prayer that I will be able to get a day watch so as to be able to be with my little sweetheart once in a while. Well dear thinking of you and missing your company will close with love for the present as ever
Your Johnnie
Postmarked March 31, 1920
Place-Living room at 40 Marlboro St
Time – 7.15 and no John on the scene, so the girl is about to take herself by the hand and go to church. Of course I hope you understand how she misses her sweetheart and is looking forward to see him Sunday. Yeah good boy and take care of yourself we’ll ride again soon and would be glad to hear from you if you get a chance, so will close for the present with lots of love
From
Kitty
Chelsea Apr. 9, 1920
My Dear John,
I know you will be surprised to get this letter also to hear that poor Frank is back again in the Peter Bent Brigham hospital. Was taken last night and operated on for appendicitis, the appendix burst before they operated. Irene sister was just here and told me. I’m going to confession so close now, hoping to see you Sunday.
Lovingly yours
Kitty
Boston Mass
April 12, 1920
My Dear Kitty
I just called the hospital and they said that Frank was resting comfortable and was much improved over yesterday. He is in Ward C.
Now Kitty I am sorry you took the view you did yesterday when I wanted to do what I thought was on the right, as you and I should understand each other better than that. I didn’t think for a minute that you showed me the things you got for that purpose.
I hope you understand each other better I’m out front now and that my little sweetheart is feeling rested after a good nights sleep. Yes?
Well yeah it seems a long stretch till Thursday night but I’m thinking of you all the time. Will close as ever with love,
Your sweetheart
Johnnie
Boston Mass
April 19, 1920
11.59 P.M.
My Dear Kitty
Just a few words to say I forgot to give you the enclosed stick of gum before I left. As ever you’re a sweetheart
Johnnie
No postage envelope has written on it “A Merry Christmas to my little sweetheart Kitty”
My Dear Kitty
Please pick out some little present for the enclosed and made our Christmas be a merry one.
Johnnie
Envelope postmarked Brookline Mass July 7, 1930
Dear mother how are you I am feeling fine send me some paper arithmetic and I will send it back to you all ade up and you send it to me and tell me is it right bring me sum postcard I still have one dollar bring me a painting book and sum pencals I went down on the Garss Saturday bring me a doll wen you come sum day Will you write me a letter when you can bring me the book of paper doll come to see me sun bring John with love illegible
Your illegible
girl Irene
- Information about John’s and Katherine’s ages is inconsistent across sources. The 1896 birth
year for John is from his military registration card which lists his age as 21 in 1917. The 1930
Census lists John’s age as 45 and Katherine’s as 41, implying birth years of approximately 1885
and 1889, respectively. However, the 1940 Census lists both their ages as 56 placing their birth
years at around 1884. Katherine’s obituary in the May 2, 1964 Lynn Massachusetts “Daily Item”
states her age as 80, placing her birth year at approximately 1884. John’s obituary in the “Daily
Item” of May 26, 1967 does not include his age. ↩︎