Letters From Max

November 13, 1902

2008-02-18T21:00:00.000-05:00

(Postcard)

Beaver Falls, Pa. Nov 13, 1902

(to Howard Novelty Co., 403 Bear St., Syracuse, NY)

Will finish here tomorrow A.M. and then go to New Castle, PA. Address me there. 21 orders today. Any packages you send me at present send to Allegheny to save forwarding, but if you had put 5 or 6 sample cards with cuts in envelope with letter it would have cost no more.

The house I was rooming in last night burned at 4AM and I had to get out in the street and put on my shoes and stockings.

Max

Notes: The Pittsburgh and Lake Erie Railroad operated between Beaver Falls and New Castle PA

December 12, 1902

2008-02-18T20:59:00.000-05:00

Cincinnati, Ohio

H. N. Co.

Am (page torn)

It has been raining here for 3 days and I have the shaking ague. Will stay in the house a couple of days.

Jacquin will have to hustle to take care of the Xmas delivery. Did you send the order I took at Canton to Akron.

Yours,

Max

Is Chas. doing the development (?) for Hendricks?

Notes: Charles is Max’s older brother – born in 1865

Shaking Ague – bad fever with shaking – often malaria

December 21, 1902

2008-02-18T20:58:00.001-05:00

Cincinnati,

Howard Novelty Co.

Enclosed find 15.00 to apply on my account. Max is sick but is improving. He had typhoid fever. Thought last night he would have to go to Hospital but his temperature went down it was over 102 last night. But doctor says the danger is passed now as the fever has left him. He says to write to him same as usual.

Please correct cards returned and mail to the people ordering.

Yours,

John

Merry Xmas

Yours received also bill for goods shipped

December 25, 1902

2008-02-18T20:53:00.000-05:00

Cincinnati Dec 25 1902

Howard Novelty Co.

Enclosed find money order for 20 dollars to apply on my acct. Max is about the same to-day. They say he is very sick but not in any danger as yet.

Have seen nothing of the orders you said you mailed to me. They must be lost some place. I expect our mutual friend Jacquin here in a day or so and will send you some more money then. Don’t send cases enough for the next shipment as I have about 25 here so you can send 25 less then order calls for and I will make out here.

Yours truly,

John

Well Florence, I suppose you rec’d a stocking full for Xmas. Hope so anyway. (page torn) doings at the M.E.Church to-day. I bet they made you sing. Ha! Ha! Great City here Florence. But old Syracuse is away ahead of it when it comes to being up to snuff. I took a little trip over into Kentucky yesterday and took some money away from the natives “their easy” Well! I must close and open up under the head of Turkey in the “Straw” or rather on the platter.

Yours truly

And wishing you a Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year

John

John is possibly John Forrester whom Max worked with
Florence is possibly Florence Tohnen

December 26, 1902

2008-02-18T20:52:00.000-05:00

Cincinnati Dec 26 1902

Dear Sirs,

Enclosed find two money orders to credit to Max. He says you need not write him very often for awhile as he can’t write and answer. I called to see him at Hospital to-day and was more than pleased at his being a great deal better. Of course they are very strict and keep them there as long as possible and he may have to stay a while after he is almost well. He sends regards. Also says that the cards you are sending are to large for the cases and to remedy it some way as the customers kick on delivery.

Yours,
John

November 22, 1903

2008-02-18T20:51:00.000-05:00

Allegheny Pa,

Dear friend Rose:

Your long and interesting letter received and read with pleasure.

This has been kind of a rainy day.

Mr. Forrester is in room reading and sends his regards to you. He says that Mrs. Churms inquired about Miss Garvey and you. Mr. Forrester will be here for 2 weeks and will then go to Oil City for a week. Then a week in Oleans and then home. Rest of us will follow.

My business at home has diminished so much that I will dispense with my bookkeeper after this week, as she has been offered a position for the holidays.

You say that I don’t say enough about myself. I don’t know what to say about myself. Yesterday I spent all day in the house except going out after my meals. Was straightening out my work, etc. This always takes nearly all Sunday as I have to fix my father’s list out for him etc. Last week I was in Butler Thursday, Friday and Saturday. At about 4 o’clock Friday A.M. they had a $300,000 fire, but I slept through it. The Opera House and a whole block of business places were burned. I never saw a town with so much sickness as Butler has. There is an average of 1 person in every house and there are 500 cases or Typhoid Fever. To-day in Allegheny, on the car, I passed a corner hotel that is quarantined with Small Pox. It is a large place and the whole place is quarantined containing 5 cards.

Am sorry that your hair is coming out. Brush your head well and let all that comes out come as it is dead hair anyway. Did you use Salt Water?

Yours about Bible Reading etc. read and considered. As I can’t say that I disagree with your points will not say anything this time.

I expected before this to hear that you were starting for the Phillipines, but perhaps they don’t need any more teachers there at present.

We have not decided fully where we will go after the holidays. I do not believe that Baltimore will be enough warmer.

I guess I can trust you to tell me anything that you think I should know, and not to tell me things that I should not know.

I hope you will have a pleasant time at the Festival. I suppose it will be a grand affair.

I hear that my brother Chas. is going rather steady (for him) with a young lady and perhaps will surprise us some day.

This section is worked by 3 or 4 other crews with Gum. I met one of the other men in Butler the other day. He is working it on the fake deal.

He gets as cheap a gum as possible and palms off a 4¢ premium whenever he can. But we have been handling good gum and have been pretty fair on premiums, and leave towns better for next agent.

Write soon.

Yours truly,

Max

Gen Del Allegheny, Pa.

December 15, 1903

2008-02-18T20:50:00.000-05:00

Allegheny Pa.,

Dear friend Rosie:

Was expecting you would address me at Allegheny and I have been thinking that you had forgotten me. But this morning I took the trolley from Mount Pleasant to Greensburg and then came to Allegheny on the train. Called for mail – at Greensburg – and was surprised at receiving your letter. I have been away from here for nearly a week. Have 2 or 3 days work around here (unless I have to wait too long for a package from NY) and will then go to Franklin and Oil City.

As far as I can see now I think I can arrange to spend Sunday December 27 and possibly Saturday or part of it in Rochester. Or if you prefer could visit you at your house. But I will be pleased at whichever is most convenient and satisfactory to you.

You can write me and let me know. Address me at Oil City, Pa., - Gen. Del.

I hope to reach home before Xmas or by Xmas but may possibly be delayed. I have to go to Olean and Bradford after Oil City, and may have to do some hustling.

This is rather cold weather that we are getting.

Are you the only teacher in your school.

I suppose that if you go to Rochester that you will have to return home Sunday night in order to be at School Monday AM

Have not yet posted myself very much on literature you sent me.

Had a couple magazines which I had finished. Sent them to you to-day.

Yours truly,

Max

Gen. Del. Oil City, Pa.

December 31, 1903

2008-02-18T20:47:00.000-05:00

Syracuse, NY,

Dear friend Rosamund:

Yours received. I did not do my duty very well in helping you make your train. First I tore your ticket. Second, I kept your baggage check. Third, I kept the time table which I got for you. You will want some who won’t forget so much next time.

I had no difficulty in getting off the train and you generally find me very careful of my personal safety.

Am sending 1 box of Gum to Fred. But I fear that you will be sorry that you ever mentioned it. I don’t promise too much on our premiums.

We are now on the eve of another Holiday, also another year – and it is Leap Year too!

Met a Schoolma’am last evening. She formerly lived in Palmyra. Her name is Miss Fall. She is not teaching at present, but is canvassing

I hope that baggage check reached you safely. I had forgotten all about it and I was downtown Tuesday evening, and happening to put my hand in vest pocket, I felt a baggage check and looking at it, I saw where it belonged. I felt quite cheap and hastened to send to you at once. Am glad that you were not inconvenienced by my carelessness.

Next Wednesday evening if I am in town, I may possibly go to a Leap Year Party and will probably pose as a Wall Flower.

I think that perhaps I shall go back on the train again until I have given that mail scheme I told you about a trail, as when I am working on the train, I have, time enough at home to attend to business.

I suppose that New Years day will find you eating flesh food owing to Special dispensation.

Received a letter from Mr. Forrester. He is enjoying himself and intends to stay where he is over Sunday. My regards to your mother and the rest.

Yours,

Max

January 13, 1904

2008-02-18T20:46:00.000-05:00

Syracuse, NY Jan 13, 1904

Dear friend Rose:

Yours received some time ago and I have had it in my mind to answer every day. But I will explain why I have been unable to do so. Have been working on the train running to Albany. Left here at 7:45 PM arriving in Albany at 12:35 AM. Would then go to bed and when I would get up, I would not have time to go out and get writing paper and come back to my room so would put off writing. Left Albany at 12:00 noon and arrived here at 3:35. Would keep me bustling here to get around to catch train again at 7:45.

But I now intend to go to Albany in the morning instead of at night and this will give me the day off after 3:35 PM. But I will have to leave here at 5:20 AM

Am sending under separate cover a watch which I procured for $2.10, but you can let this go in your birthday present.

Mr. Forrester went to Auburn and Seneca Falls Monday putting out Gum and has done quite well for this time of the year.

I can’t say that I made any important resolutions to take effect the 1^st of the year.

Last week, I went to the Leap Year Party I spoke about. There were 16 dances – 3 of them Gents choice, the other 13 Ladies choice. The 13 dances on my program were filled out quite early in the evening but this was owing to the majority present being ladies. Was proposed to once but the girl said that I was the 3^rd one who had refused her.

I froze the tip of my nose during the cold spell and it is just peeling I did not know that it had been frozen until I noticed it peeling yesterday.

Am waiting to learn result of my letter scheme. Have sent out about 120 letters and ought to get answers soon if any are to come. Received the first answer to-day, but that contained no money, only an inquiry. But I was pleased even to get that.

We are getting a very disagreeable snow storm this evening – very wet – will make it hard on the railroad.

Am doing very well, on the train.

Write soon.

Yours truly,

Max

February, 1904

2008-02-18T20:45:00.000-05:00

First page of letter missing – I believe it was written in Feb 04

…in a position like that. It is a desirable position, but will postpone trial for it until later and see what turns up.

I was shaved on the train the other day. The train I go east on comes through from Chicago. Leaves Chicago at 10:30 AM. Arrives in NY the next day at 1:30 PM. It has a library buffet car in which is a barber shop, bathroom, library and bar. It is made up almost entirely of Pullman cars and carries a wealthy class of people. But it is too early in the morning for me to do very much. But the train going west is a good one and I am doing finely.

Speaking about mail clerks. Coming west Saturday afternoon we were going about 50 miles an hour, when one of the mail clerks fell out of the side door. When the train stopped we were a mile or two away, so sent the rear brakerman back. The man was not injured at all. I suppose the snow saved him.

Am going to lecture to-night by the editor of “The Banner of Light” a Spiritualist paper. The valentine you sent me was quite clever.

Write soon

Yours

Max

March 9, 1904

2008-02-18T20:43:00.000-05:00

Syracuse, NY

Dear friend Rosie:

Yours received some few days ago and contents noted. I am glad to send what little reading matter I do. I have better opportunities for procuring the same than you and will send you some at different times.

Am sorry that punching bag did not last better. Please mail me the bursted bladder and I will see if I can get it replaced.

I hear that the water up your way is over the railroad tracks. But I don’t suppose it can get up on your hill. I expect we will have some trouble down on the Mohawk river in a week or so.

I don’t have very hard work and I don’t mind getting up early, except I can’t stand being out late every night. And I prefer to work Sunday, as I need the money. But I get back in Syracuse at 3:35 PM and have until 5:20 next morning. Any time that you are going to Rochester, if you wish to see me, let me know in advance and I will get a pass and can go through to Rochester getting there at 5:20 PM, and can stay until 10 PM or so.

I keep posted some on War news, but it is hard to tell what is true in the newspapers, so I don’t read much more than the head lines.

Rochester had quite a fire and I suppose it will look different the next time we are there.

I can’t say how long I will wear my present uniform. Perhaps all summer, or until I get discharged. I am taking chances on the latter every day, and also the News Co., may possibly lose their privileges on the Central.

Will know more after May 1. But if the run I am on pays out as well as I figure it will during the summer, it may pay me to hold it.

My train going east will get so it will be on time when weather clears up. This will give me time enough in Albany to answer your letters and I will make an effort to be more prompt here after. I think about writing you every day, but something turns up to prevent.

Yours truly,

Max

March 22, 1904

2008-02-18T20:33:00.000-05:00

Albany, NY

Dear friend Rose:

Am now in R.R.Y.M.C.A. Bldg. and have a little time before my train leaves so will profit by it by writing you. The train coming east is beginning to run on time now that the weather has moderated and I will have 2 or 3 hours here every day. Think I will canvass the town with card cases.

You inquired about Mr. Forrester. He is now working on the R.R. same as I am. Runs to Buffalo. He stays in Bflo nights but is in Syracuse from 1:30 PM to7:30 PM giving him time to go to matinee. He is beginning to like the work and may stay at it during the summer. We ought to go to St. Louis and perhaps may.

I sent your birthday present a few days ago. The book is a Tabard Inn’s Library book and the enclosed circular will explain the plan of the Tabard Inn Library. They may have a branch in Palmyra or Newark, but if not, when you wish to exchange book, mail to me and I will exchange for you. They have all the new $1.50 books.

If you wish to do something this summer and the Tabard Inn have no branch in your part of the country, you would be able to make good money organizing one. It will do you no harm to write them and get their plan. It would be easy and pleasant work for you and you could remain home and do it.

Thursday evening I am to attend a concert given by a Choral Society.

It looks like Spring now and I am glad to see it. It makes me wish to get out on the road again. I hope that your mother and father and the children are all well.

I presume that it will be just as well for Josie to get out of partnership and I suppose that her idea of remaining in Rochester will be to remain there.

My father is still out in Oswego County, but I expect him home this week and he will probably bring one of our country cousins.

Will close now, hoping to receive an early reply. I think I will have to walk down to the post office to get an envelope for this letter.

Yours,

Max

I can get of most any Sunday by letting the boss know in time to get someone to take my place.

April 30, 1904

2008-02-18T20:27:00.001-05:00

Syracuse, NY

Dear friend Rose:

Yours received a few days ago.

Received a letter from Josie saying that she had placed out the 50 Boxes of Gum I sent her first. She did the McRay act. Caught the children coming from school. She will probably make arrangements for the teacher to collect money for her. It will make it much easier and will be no trouble for the teacher. Ha! Ha! I will send McFadden’s book a little later. Also the May Magazines. Last night I went to a euchre party and won eight games out of 15. My brother starts for St. Louis Monday, May 9 and after he gets out there, he intends to have me come if business is good there. And when I get there again I don’t expect to come home until next Spring. Have read the booklet you sent me. Glad you sent it as I wished to get your ideas on the same subject. Mr. Forester is thinking about getting married this spring although I don’t believe that the father has been approached yet. I suppose that your school will close soon and you will have plenty of time to write and read.

Yours truly,

Max

P.S. Mrs. Tohnan is in town. She has consumption and doctors say she cannot live long. She is not going back to Pittsburg and Mr. Tohnan will finish his work so as to leave there in the fall.

July 10, 1904

2008-02-18T20:26:00.001-05:00

(World’s Fair St. Louis 1904 stationery)

Addressed to Miss Rose Forderkonz, Palmyra NY

St. Louis, Mo,

Dear Rose:

The weather is lovely to-day. Have taken swim in the tub and feeling fine am at peace with the world. My train leaves here in about 1 hour so I will only have a short time to spare on this letter, as I have to be around early and see that everything is on and ready. I don’t expect to have much of a load to-day. Business here is a case of ups and downs. Fine one day and wretched the next. All the time living in anticipation of every day being fine; But then I think that I won’t drown. I have been keeping you posted about Metzger because he is from Rochester and I will have to keep up the tale to the last. My last letter told you about taking dinner with them. That same day he received a telegram from Rochester that his mother (about 80 years old) was dead. And so he, his wife and child all went back home and I do not think he will return here.

His wife did not see the fair or he, himself did not get out to the grounds. Bu he did not care much about it. The Democratic Convention has helped things here this week but now that it is over, I don’t know what we will have next week.

Have you thought or done anything about teaching next term? Are you selling skirts? Or just living a life of ease?

On two day trips on the train time seems to pass twice as fast as on one-day trips and it takes no time for a month to fly.

Yours,

Max

Gen Del. St. Louis, Mo

July 21, 1904

2008-02-18T20:24:00.000-05:00

St. Louis World’s Fair 1904 envelope. St. Louis postmark July 21 1904

Addressed to Miss Rose Forderkonz, Palmyra NY

Danville, Ill,

Dear Rosie:

Have a short time so will pen you a few lines. My brother’s train goes through here at 1:15 and is 35 minutes late. This is the only chance I get to see him, every other day.

Business has kept up pretty fair considering, with me lately, although nearly all are complaining. Sell quite a lot of souvenir postal cards now and make good money on them. At first they cost 10¢ per pkg and then dropped to 7 ½ and then to 6 ½. I went to the Mfrs. the other day and by contracting for 25,000, or 2,500 sets got the lowest jobbers price of 4 ½ ¢ per set. Can sell same to the other agents for 6 ½ ¢ and my brother and myself will make 20 1/2¢ on each pkg. we sell.

We have both got in the habit of talking shop, but I like to have you do so and take it for granted that you sometimes might be interested in details that I don’t tell anyone else.

A girl on the train last night lost her pocketbook just before getting off our train to change to a slower train. I think some one else copped it, but she could do nothing to regain. It contained about $20.00 and her ticket. I loaned her $1.00 to get home with. She felt bad because she had been as economical as possible at the fair so as not to come home broke, and failed at the last moment. She should have made use of her stocking.

Yours,

Max

October 8, 1904

2008-02-18T20:17:00.001-05:00

Fort Wayne, Ind.

Dear friend Rosie:

Have not heard from you in some time. I suppose that school is keeping you busy. I intended to write you last night, but I got so sleepy that I went to bed instead. I had been to the theatre the night before. I am going to attend a dance to-night.

Am still on the same run but stay is getting indefinite. I think that the Fair travel is going to take a sudden tumble in the near future and I don’t care to work for my present boss when business is not good. But will stay as long as it pays me to do so unless something happens. The circuses close this month and as the boss is an old circus man, a lot of circus butchers who act as news agts. during the winter will flock to Danville and boss may want too much from my run.

Have not yet decided where to go when I get through here. One or two others have spoken to me about going to Portland so as to be there for next years fair.

We have had some very very cold weather here in the last week. It begins to look like the approach of winter.

How is the weather there?

Write often

Yours,

Max

Gen Del Danville, Ill.

Have just thought that you might have written me to Fort Wayne. Will call at Post Office here Monday and see.

October 26, 1904

2008-02-18T20:15:00.000-05:00

Fort Wayne, Ind.

Dear friend:

Your letters received. Also book. Have not had time to study book yet, but will do so later and give you a criticism on same.

Business has started to slump. A very cheap class of people are going toward St. Louis now.

I have just received 500 sets of silver postal cards and if I did not have them I should give notice to quit at once. I am going to close them out as fast as possible. You probably remember that I was figuring on buying these cards in large quantities at $10 per (symbol that looks like a capital M with a circle through it).

Well I bought 10 (same symbol) at $7 per (same symbol) which shows that they are anxious to unload. I am now just as anxious and will let them go for whatever I can get.

Think of jumping to Syracuse from here, but dread the thought of working there through the winter. At the same time, I could get a very good run there. Boss here will send me to South McAlester, Indian Territory if I wish, where I can get a good run to Memphis, Tenn.

John did not do very well at St. Louis. I am sorry, but think that he had an opportunity. But he did not get along in harmony with the boss. But that he should have done.

He will go back to work out of Buffalo.

I have to see the dentist this evening. Am having a gold crown put on one of my forward teeth.

Yours,

Max

May stay here until Dec 1

Address Danville.

November 15, 1904

2008-02-18T20:14:00.000-05:00

Allegheny, Pa.,

Dear Rosie:

You probably expected to receive a letter from me Monday. And you also are probably surprised at receiving a letter directed from this town. Friday I was in Rochester Called on Josie and had dinner. Also saw Miller. Sunday night I started for NY City arriving there yesterday morning. It was a terrible windy day in NY all day.

Left NY last night arriving here at 11 AM today.

Am located in room on Federal St. where Forrester and I formerly roomed opposite you.

Have the gas burning now and am taking comfort. Called at Mr. Tohnan’s this noon, but he is out to Duquesque for the day. Will call on him some evening. Perhaps to-night. Have read some more in that book, but I cannot keep interest in for long readings.

There is a great sale in NY City for the “Simple Life” I bought a copy and glanced over it this morning. But I don’t see why such a stir should be made about it. If it were more simply written, so that it would hold the interest of any reader and would give a person some idea what the author considers “Simple Life” it might amount to something. But he doesn’t practice his own preaching about doing things in as simple a manner as possible or he would cut out 9/10 of his book and give us a simple idea of what he means.

I noticed that he gives his idea of the best religion and I have underscored it thinking it might interest you. When I get ready to writ my criticisms, etc. May make use of his statement here. Will mail Simple Life to you under separate cover.

NY City is a great city. Should like to remain there for a couple weeks if I had plenty of money to spend. Ought to have taken in the Horse Show which is running this week. But as soon as I finished my business, I thought it better to get out.

(rest missing)

November 21, 1904

2008-02-18T20:04:00.000-05:00

Allegheny, Pa.,

Dear friend Rosie:

Yours just received to-day. Have not read very much in book lately and then I expect I will have to read it a 2^nd time to get meaning. You must not give me any credit for reading it because I am not doing very much in that way.

Expect to return home for the Xmas Holidays and then perhaps will leave again. Received letter from my brother the other day in which he states that he is thinking of going back to Syracuse and have the family life there this winter.

The Fair will very soon be a thing of the past.

We have been getting lovely weather here since I have been there (the Indian Summer) I am out with the Card Case and am doing very nicely. Will do better alone as I will have more territory. Although I feel a little lonesome.

Florence Tohnan is in Syracuse. Mr. Tohnan is intending to sell out here and go there so he and Florence can be to-gether. An aunt of theirs died lately and left them more money than their uncle did. So they are both quite well fixed.

But Mr. Tohnan has a house here furnished and a lease on it until Apr. 1. He is trying to sell furniture and lease.

Saturday night I went to see Maude Adams in the “Little Minister.” She is very fine. I fell in love her. Ha! Ha!

The “Still” man has quite a store in Pittsburg for the sale of Stills. I have only seen it from the outside but it is well fitted up.

I have some improvements in mind concerning card case business which I think I will take up after the first of the year.

Sorry to hear of the death of the Jersey. You can serve it up for Thanksgiving. H! H!

I presume I will go down to the “High Stool” and have “Fried 2 over and a Stack.” Or perhaps a Bowl of Force with water and a toothpick.

Write soon,

Yours truly,

Max

Gen Del Allegheny PA

November 27, 1904

2008-02-18T20:03:00.000-05:00

Allegheny Pa,

Dear friend Rose:

Yours received. Last night we had a little snow and to-day it has been fearfully cold, so that I have stayed in my room nearly all day.

About the only day that I feel lonesome is Sunday and that is because Mr. Forrester and I were nearly always together when we were here Sundays. But to-day I have kept pretty well occupied reading. But I have not read any in that book to-day. Will send McFadden’s magazines in a few days.

Your wants for Xmas are very small and will be easily supplied. Young man is called Nelson but I would prefer to call him Howard. Miller did not say very much about him, but I presume it is because I did keep him on that subject. Mr. Forrester is doing very nicely on his present run. He thinks his trip out to St. Louis gave him good experience so he can do better than before. And his trip to St. Louis was not so very bad as he had the trip and went home as well off as he left.

Yesterday evening I called on Mr. Tohnan. He has rather a bad cough a nd rather fear that he has caught the tub[erculosis] himself.

The “Still Man” is Mr. Tohnan’s cousin. I think I have told you about him. Always talking “Still”.. If not will tell you when we meet again.

Thanksgiving afternoon I went to see Anna Eva Fay. She performs some wonderful things such as having spirit hands assist her in playing on musical instruments etc. She also answers written questions and in that line she is way ahead of anyone else that I have ever seen. She is covered by a sheet on the stage and you hold your question in hand and she will tell you how your question is worded and how you have signed your name and then answer the same.

I deliver to-morrow in Homestead Braddock and McKeesport. And after delivering I am going to try to get in some record breaking days on orders. Thanksgiving day rather broke this week up on act on coming in middle of week.

Yours truly,

Max

Gen Del Allegheny, Pa.

December 3, 1904

2008-02-18T20:01:00.000-05:00

Allegheny, Pa., Dec 3, 1904

Dear friend Rosie:

Yours received. My time here is drawing toward the end. – Unless I should decide to stay longer. -- This coming week is the last week I can take orders to have ready for Xmas and then I will have to wait until those orders are printed before delivering. But I shall be home the week before Xmas.

Received letter from my brother saying that he has gone to Kansas City and accepted a position with Harvey News Co., and may send for me later. He does not intend to return to Syracuse according to the tone of his letter. I have not been in very much snow yet this winter. I presume I will strike it when I go home. This week have been to Johnstown and Altoona. Johnstown is in a very deep valley surrounded entirely by high hills or mountains. It is not hard to see how easily it could be destroyed by a flood. Went to the theatre and saw “Siberia”. Near Altoona I saw the Horse Shoe Curve of the Pennsylvania R.R.

I think that Anna Eva Fay has always traveled alone, as I have heard of her before and never heard of any sister. In fact, I know she hasn’t any.

Your hunting trip must have been exhilarating. I should enjoy the hunting and think I should feel better afterward at losing out on the game same as you did.

You might get me a gun for Xmas. But I don’t think you had better as I might shoot myself. But perhaps a razor might come as easy to die mit. But if it were a Safety it might be hard to hurt myself. – If you don’t think of anything better why not get a pocket knife. But then, anything will be deeply appreciated. I suppose your great trouble will be in getting things for your scholars.

Write soon

Yours,

Max

Gen Del. Allegheny, Pa.

December 13, 1904

2008-02-18T20:00:00.001-05:00

Johnstown, Pa., Dec. 13, 1904

Dear friend Rosie:

Yours received. Sunday I went to Mr. Tohnan’s to dinner and lunch and stayed so long that I did not get time to write any letters. Mr. Tohnan has a housekeeper and is getting along nicely. He is undecided about his plans. Not feeling very well and I don’t think he ought to stay in Pittsburg. He doesn’t think so either but I guess he hates to leave it. But I don’t believe he will go to Syracuse if he does leave.

Have been in Altoona to-day and was almost inclined to stay over there until to-morrow when I saw a sign in a store window announcing a sale to-morrow morning of Flinch Cards at 18¢ per set. I hated to leave this bargain, but I may run across another.

Altoona is at the point of a water famine. If they should have a large fire, it would empty their reservoir as it is now nearly empty.

The show troupe here are stopping at the same hotel I am at. I may take it in this evening.

I expect to arrive home either Sunday or Tuesday. Address my letter there. When and where do you wish to see me during the Holidays?

Are you going to stay at home, or are you going to Rochester or where?

Please give me detail in your next letter.

Yours truly

Max

403 Bear St.

Judge from your letter that you must have heard the song called “Teasing”

January 14, 1905

2008-02-18T19:58:00.000-05:00

Rochester NY

Jan 14 1905

Dear Rose,

It is now just twenty-five minutes past ten o’clock on Saturday night when I am beginning to start your letter. I am waiting for the people to get to bed so I can have full swing in the bath tub or full swim I should said. I suppose you will say you are glad I am kept waiting or I would never write but it’s better late than never, Rose.

I suppose you are kept busy hammering knowledge into the heads of those youngsters down there. I wish you would send me some by male. You know I have just let another birth-day pass and I’m beginning to wonder if I hadn’t better pick up with some old batch before long.

Old age is honorable, but Old Maids are abominable.

You will have to excuse this letter Rose as its written so long past my bedtime that I’m not accountable for what I say.

Mrs. Esty thought your photo fine Rose. I believe I’ll have to have some taken to send to some Convent just for a bluff, seeing I can’t go myself send a picture. That’s an awful one on you, send your picture to the convent and send to Penn. For Howard the next week. I wish I could see that good Uncle of yours and have a talk with him.

Never mind Rose. I’m only jealous because I have not a Howard of my own. If I had I would have joined the Sons of Rest long ago.

I really do believe I’ll have to shut up and go to bed it’s nearly eleven so hoping to get a quick reply I will say good night.

I remain as ever

Lovingly Marise (?)

130 Harvard Lane

January 16, 1905

2008-02-18T19:56:00.001-05:00

Albuquerque, NM Jan 16, 1905

Dear friend Rose:

Received your letter Saturday while in Kansas City. Have dropped postal to postmaster at K.C. Kansas to forward mail to proper address. This letter may keep you waiting as it will probably take 4 or 5 days to reach you.

Am a little over 2000 miles from you. This is my 3^rd trip to this place. Make 1 trip from K.C. every 5 days. It is 1000 miles from K.C. I left K.C. Saturday at 2:35PM. Arrived here last night (Sunday) at 10:30 PM. Will leave here to-night (Monday) at 7:45 PM arriving in K.C. Wed. at 7:00 AM.

My last trip toward K.C. we were behind the California Limited when it was wrecked (killing 3 people). It delayed us so we arrived in K.C. 17 hours late (not giving me any time to write while there.)

1^st in business way – I am not fully satisfied with my run. They saw that this is the dull season and that the run is a good one later. But I am not adding to my fortune very fast at present. The trouble is that I am on one train too long. Have the same people all the way through and if train is light I have wasted 2 ½ days without doing much business. It will make me appreciate the round trip a day runs in the east where if you get a poor train you have another one the dame day to make up. But they have some better runs here – the 3 day trips are better as they do as much business on them as we do on the 5 day run. I will make 2 or 3 more trips on this run and see what turns up before asking for change.

You will notice that I am on the train 3 nights on a trip. Can go to bed in Tourist Sleeper for 50 cts. And get a good nights sleep so that I get plenty of rest.

Get all kinds of climatic changes. While in K.C. they were experiencing their coldest weather of the season (Kansas sees less of winter than NY) It was below zero. Here the weather is just like May. One can go out without their overcoat. They do not get much snow here. The day before I arrived here on my last trip, they had the heaviest snow storm they have seen in 2 years. We would think nothing of it. The day I was here, the sun came out and melted the snow just like a fire would. The evening and mornings are cool. The altitude here is about 5000 feet.We reach 8000 feet at Las Vegas. A great many lungers (consumptives) come out this way for their health. Some of them cannot stand the high altitudes. I think the changes are good for me. Am feeling fine. Coming out here, I pass through Kansas, Colorado, and New Mexico. Have seen Deserts, Prairies, prairie dogs, Adobe, Mexicans, Pueblo Indians and at one place on Santa Fe, we pass the Spanish peaks, about 14,000 ft. high. They look about 2 miles away on a clear day, but in fact are 50 miles.

On a clear day, Pikes peak can be seen 75 miles away. But I haven’t been past there on a clear enough day. Am now in the Alvarado Hotel. It is about as swell a furnished hotel as I have ever seen. It is built in Old Mission style of Adobe. All furnishings are of heavy Oak and finished up in as rich style as possible. All the Harvey Hotels are furnished on same plan.

(ink smudge) Picture caused by a drop of ink.

While in Chicago I looked Jacquin up but did not see him. Found his name in directory, but when I went to the address given, no one knew anything. Guess he has moved to avoid paying rent. But it shows that he is there O.K. Write often. Will let you know of any changes I might make.

Yours,

Max

3021 Vine St., K.C. Mo.

January 23, 1905

2008-02-18T19:46:00.002-05:00

Kansas City, Mo.

Dear friend Rosie:

Have just finished shaving myself with the Safety Razor. This is the first time I have attempted it and I kind of feared making the first attempt. But I had very good success and it did not take me very long to shave.

I am here at my brother’s house. He lives in a nice little brick cottage It is about 3 or 3 ½ miles from city center and I think he pays too much rent for the place (27.50 per month) but it is a nice location and a very high elevation. Marguerite is at school. Elmer is now trying to shave himself. He is working on train. Goes out in the evening and back in the morning. He gets quite a while to sleep on train, so it is not a hard run. He made a trip to Albuquerque last week on the same run I have.

My brother has been in Albuquerque ever since I have been out here with no chance of getting home. I have seen him twice at Albuquerque. He runs west of there on the California Limited. He may stay on that run, and if so, will probably move to Albuquerque later.He has not had any extraordinary success on the train yet but I think he will get along O.K. on it after a while.

It is entirely different from working on the other trains. Solid Pullman train and he does not sell cigars, papers, books or anything like that. Only carries Navajo Blankets, Indian Curios, Filagree and Agate jewelry etc. He carries blankets at as high as $150.00 each so you see making an unexpected sale on train to passengers amounting to $100 to $200 is something that he has got used to. But the other men have sold as high as $700 in 2 trips.

To-morrow I go out on a Dodge City run, but is in place of a man who is laying off, so I don’t know whether I will be able to holed it or not – Dodge City is about 370 miles from here and I go to Dodge City on day, return the next and rest the 3^rd day. So this is an easy run, if I can hold it and make money on it. Wrote to postmaster at Kansas City about forwarding mail, but have not received your letter yet. Expect your photo and paintings this afternoon.

Marguerite was not put in as high a class here as at Syracuse. She had painting at Syracuse, but her class are just starting at it here.

My brother had his furniture shipped here from Syracuse and his wife feels happier now with a well furnished house.

Write often.

Yours truly,

Max

3021 Vine St, K.C. Mo.

February 7, 1905

2008-02-18T19:44:00.000-05:00

Kansas City, Mo. Feb 7 1905

Dear friend Rosie:

Yours received when I arrived here last night. I leave to-morrow on the Aluquerque run. I don’t know how many more trips I will stay on there. Was rather surprised (although I knew it wasw best) last night to hear that my brother had resigned and is going back to Syracuse. The boss got it in his head that I too will go east and he expects that I will resign soon. I intended to anyway, whether my brother did or not. I think his family will all be glad to get back to Syracuse. They are all happy to think about it now.

It will hardly pay to have your watch repaired at the jewelers unless he w ill fix it for $1.00 or less. It probably has a broken mainspring and if he will put that in for $1.00 or less you might get it fixed. But if now, it will be cheaper to buy another one. I haven’t a catalogue here, but I think you have one of Singer’s catalogue. If so you could order one sent to you by mail. Add 5 or 10¢ for postage. You will find it catalogue as an enameled chatelaine watch at about $2.10 or $2.15 I think. If you do not order it, let me know and I will try and get one in Chicago if I go there.

Yes, our birthdays are coming due soon. We will have to reverse our ages, as you can be taken for 28 and I think I can pass for 22.

Elmer starts east with the dog to-day. His father has gone to the depot with him. They all intend to stop over at Durand, Mich., where they formerly lived.

I will have to help them pack up some this PM. They will leave here the 9^th so when I get back from Albuquerque, they will be gone.

Good bye

Write soon

Yours truly

Max

Gen Del Kansas City, Mo.

Have never heard from letter I wrote to Kansas City, Kan. Postmaster.

February 10, 1905

2008-02-18T19:26:00.001-05:00

Stationery from The Alvarado, Albuquerque, NM.

Feb 10, 1905

Dear friend Rose:

Will write you just a short note as a valentine.

My brother leaves K.C. to-night and will probably be working on the NYC in about 10 days. Mr. Cheney (the boss at K.C.) asked me if I intended returning east. I told him that I wanted to be where I could make some money and so far had not been making it on the Santa Fe. He asked me to stay for a while implying that he intended arranging so I would be able to make some money. But he will need to move in that direction some time this month or I may not stay. I felt complimented at his requesting me to stay as I hardly expected that he had discovered my ability (?) Ha! Ha!

Just met a young Syracuse neighbor of mine. He is living in a tent just outside the city line. Has been in the west about 2 years, living 1 year here. He came out for his health and is looking first rate. His folks are quite wealthy so he has nothing to do except kill time and makes a study of medicine. Was very glad to meet some one he knew at home. So was I.

Write oftener,

Max

February 15, 1905

2008-02-18T19:24:00.000-05:00

Stationery from The Alvarado Hotel, Albuquerque, N.M.

Feb 15 1905

Dear friend Rose:

Yours of the 8^th received. Wrecks seem to be rather common on the Santa Fe, although they don’t seem to kill very many people. In 4 trips to Albuquerque, I was layed out 3 times by wrecks. My last trip into Kansas City we were delayed by a wreck and all sorts of trouble on account of the unusual severity of the weather so I arrived in K.C. 26 hours late. I came right out the same day. I haven’t any home to go to in K.C. now. My brother has had rather hard luck in his western trip. He was not familiar with the Missouri State law regarding landlords and tenants. He did not give landlord 30 days notice before moving so after he had put everything in the freight house the landlord sued him for a month’s rent and seized the furniture. My brother had left town and did not know anything about it. So that I will have to straighten it out for him. Costs etc. will make it cost him about $70 or $75 which he can charge up to experience.

Will return Miss Dickinson’s letter. She can write when she gets around to it, it seems. Try and be prompt in your answers and perhaps she will get the habit.

The weather here is much warmer than we had at K.C. It is snowing a little to-day, but the snow melts before it strikes the ground.

Have not yet taken out a claim yet. But there is yet time to get in line for Spring ploughing. Pretty near make up my mind to have every trip be my last one, but when I get in, I decide to hang on a little longer. Can make a living here, and the agents here seem to think this is so much better than the east I have been thinking perhaps I am not doing as well as I might after I get on to the ropes. But I guess it is because they don’t know what the east is.

Yours truly,

Max

February 20, 1905

2008-02-18T19:23:00.000-05:00

K.C. Mo., Feb. 20 1905

Dear friend:

Your 2 letters received. You must not figure on my being in Syracuse until it is a fact. Am still remaining here on sufferance but will resign on the least provocation. Have decided there is nothing in the future to be gained by remaining here, so will refuse to cover dub runs. I think I shall get the Thousand Island Club train for the summer season, out of Syracuse. My brother and his family are in Syracuse and I think he is starting on his old run to-day.

Went to the theatre Friday and Sunday nights not having any other place to go. When my brother’s family were here, I would stay home as they lived so far from center of town. I wouldn’t run back and forth. But now I am stopping downtown I get out to see what amusements are going on. Make a trip to Dodge City to-morrow.

Write,

Max

Gen. Del. K.C. Mo.

Spring 1905

2008-02-18T19:22:00.000-05:00

First page of letter missing. I believe it was written in Spring 1905

…me and can leave any time I make up my mind too. As long as they leave me on my present run, shall probably stay. Think I am giving satisfaction but it will create some dissatisfaction among them I am left on it. They are all kicking on the way he has been changing some of them around. And I don’t care enough about the run to say anything for it, so I will just let matters drift. Think I will be better pleased if I am taken off.

Wed. night I went to the Policeman’s Ball at Convention Hall at K.C. It was the largest crowd I ever see at a dance. Everyone in town seemed to be out.

One thing that looks bad for business here is the fact that we are liable to get tied up for a week or even 2 weeks account of Spring Wash outs. The floods in Arizona are the cause of my train being late to-day. You know, the thaws comeearly out that way.

Au Revoir,

Max

Gen Del. K.C. Mo.

March 2, 1905

2008-02-18T19:20:00.001-05:00

K.C. Mo. March 2, 1905,

Dear friend Rose:

Two letters received. Also the knife. It is a beauty and I thank you very much for it. Will be very useful to me.

Am still in K.C. and not yet preparing to leave.

Should not be surprised if my brother should get an office for the Union News Co., and in that event I would probably go to work for him.

Mr. Forrester writes me that business is none too good, so I may be as well of here. Have about decided to stay providing I am left on Dodge City run. But there is an uncertainty in my mind. Am to report in morning to go out on it as my regular trip but shall not be surprised if he should have another man report for the same train, as I know 4 men (3 besides myself) who want to go out to-morrow. And only 2 of them can go. When I was in office to-day I did not ask him anything about it, but it seemed to be understood that I would go out, but he has got the others to satisfy so it remains to see what happens.

It is hard to answer your question about securing a school. I don’t suppose there is any need of securing it too far ahead. If you don’t get a school and nothing else turns up I might get you a position as chambermaid at one of the Harvey houses. Ha! He!

The weather here is just elegant. Has been like Spring for about 2 weeks now. O need for an overcoat to-day. I bet it is very much milder than York State.

You are having all sorts of trouble lately. You want to read McFadden a little more closely. Also Hubbard.

Glad that your father won his case and hope that the State will settle with him O.K. Probably the lawyer will get your 50. But then you can take it out in board. Eat twice as much as usual if you can’t get it fast enough otherwise.

Or if I go broke I will let you send me a couple weeks board.

Write soon

Yours truly,

Max

Gen Del K.C. Mo

February 22, 1907

2008-02-18T19:13:00.001-05:00

Syracuse, NY Feb 22 1906 (mis-dated, should be 1907)

My dear Rose,

Well, well, well, I certainly congratulate you from the bottom of my heart. Wish I could see the little cherub.

It may sound “fishy” for “actions speak louder than words,” but I have thought of you a great deal and meant to write long ago, for I knew that a word of cheer when the little darlings are on their way often helps considerably. But I have been too miserable most of the time to write letters, much as I thought about you. I have had so many colds, you know, which always put me back and I have just gotten over a beautiful attack of the grippe.

What do you suppose is the latest with us? We are going to California – Los Angeles for my health. My husband’s sister is going with us. We start the first Wednesday in March. Wish you and Max (and of course, little Earl) were going along.

By the way, whom did you name your baby after?

Our baby is just old enough now to be cute. She looks like a great big doll with her large blue eyes and clear skin. She is a wide-a-wake baby, I tell you – doesn’t want to sleep hardly any though the day, and is the greatest little giggler you ever saw.

I was glad to know that you are getting along well and hope you will continue.

When you are able to write me, address me at 119 Malcolm St., this city, as my husband’s people live there, and they will forward the letter. Remember, I want a good full ‘report’ on you and the little one and will await with pleasure, your reply.

Now hoping you will keep well and promising to write quicker after receiving your letter I remain

Sincerely your Friend,

Florence E. Silliman (Mrs. Wm.)

119 Malcolm St., Syracuse NY

October 10, 1908

2008-02-18T19:10:00.001-05:00

Souvenir Post Card

Viaduct, Port Hope, Ont.

Addressed to: Mrs. M.C. Howard, 403 Bear St., Syracuse, NY

Oct 10 1908

Arrived safely. Miss Curran is fine. We are at her brothers now Had a fine trip.

April 22, 1909

2008-02-18T19:08:00.000-05:00

To: Mrs. Rose A. Howard, Palmyra, NY (care F. Forderkonz)

Syracuse, NY

Dear Frau:

Saw Earl and Josephine at the station to-night. O.K. but I think Earl gave some trouble at night before going to sleep and probably will do so to-night. He was tickled to see me. Came to meet me on a run. To-morrow (or to-day) Friday, I will bring him on train with me and if you or someone of the family meets me at the station at Newark, I will leave him there. Will go through Newark at 5:42 and will want to see some one right on the job as I can’t leave him alone. Will also have the Go-cart. If impossible for anyone to go to Newark I can bring him on to Syracuse.

Enclosed find pictures we made Sunday. Did not have very good success.

If I do not get my camera to-morrow will want to come through to Syracuse Saturday to see if it comes during the day. In that event I will go up to Port Sunday A.M. from here. But don’t let my coming keep you from getting to church if you are able to go and wish to do so.

If camera comes to-morrow morning (which is doubtful) will try and get there Saturday P.M. But do not waste any time looking for me Sat.

Business is still on the bum but will be better next week. Let me know how every one is.

Write,

Max

April 23, 1909

2008-02-18T19:07:00.000-05:00

To: Mrs. Rose A. Howard, Palmyra, NY (care F. Forderkonz)

Syracuse, NY

Lieber Frau:

Received your letter to-day. Trust that your mother is improving all right. Did not have time to ask Fred to-day. Earl was tickled to leave Rochester, although I guess Josie got along with him O.K. he missed his mother. I bet he was glad to see you when he got home. He hung to me all the time on the train. He is not feeling bang up as his cough and vomiting has weakened him some. See that he is out of doors nearly all day and sleeps out doors at night and I think he will soon get over his cough. Also have Ruth out doors as much as possible.

Should like to stop over to-morrow night but don’t think I shall be able to do so as there are several reasons why I had better come through to Syracuse. One is in order to see if my camera comes tomorrow. And the other is that I can get clothes and things to-gether in better shape by coming here. So do not look for me to-morrow. Haven’t much of any news to tell you. Will be able to talk when I see you Sunday.

Au Revoir,

Max

April 28, 1909

2008-02-18T19:06:00.000-05:00

To: Mrs. Rose A. Howard, Palmyra, NY (care F. Forderkonz)

Syracuse, NY

Dear Frau:

Yours received this A.M. Have been busy around the house most of to-day. Straightened up office some and mounted maps on cloth. Made some prints of negatives made yesterday. Camera working very good. Helped Chas. develop to-night and it is getting along toward 9 P.M. so I will have to hustle down to corner with this soon as written. Am expecting camera tomorrow and hope I won’t be disappointed. Will probably mail roll of film for the Pocket Kodak to-morrow. It has slipped my mind as I intended to send it before this. Went to dentist. He is treating tooth and I have to go again Monday.

Nelson has not coughed much do-day. He vomited some last night.

My finger nails are getting brown from developer.

Au Revoir

Max

People here are all quite well now.

Mother went to Nick Peters to-day and did a little shopping.

April 29, 1909

2008-02-18T19:04:00.001-05:00

To: Rose A. Howard, Palmyra NY (care of F. Forderkonz)

Stationery: Howard Photo Co.,
Views, Groups, Flash Lights
Portraits at your own home.
403 Bear St., Syracuse, NY

Dear Wife:

Yours received to-day. Have just finished developing and am washing films now. Let Chas. out o f the work entirely to-night. He is visiting with Satie now. She came in a few minutes ago. Probably thinking about the fact that Chas. will need a girl this summer.

Alfons telephoned up to-night and said that he would come after letter to-morrow night.

Camera came O.K. this morning. I started out at once taking the 9 o’clock car to Baldwinsville. Started in the country from there intending to work over to Little Utica. It was rather cold for calling the people out of doors. Stopped at 4 places and made pictures at 3 places. The other place was a Pollack.

So you see that the people want pictures.

Then it started to snow and I walked back to Bville nearly freezing my fingers on the way back. I seem bound to lose this week’s work but will make up for it next week. I forgot the film again to-day. I will bring my new camera up Sunday and perhaps your father might get a better picture with it. Will perhaps be able to tell you to-morrow ight when I expect to arrive in Port.

I see that Peroxide is good for whooping cough if sprayed with an atomizer.

Satie is talking to Chas. and mother all the time while I am writing. They are in the kitchen.

Hope the weather clears up to-morrow morning.

Au Revoir.

Regard to all. Will tell you lots Sunday. Remember to remind me of Newell and paper returns.

Max

April 30, 1909

2008-02-18T19:01:00.001-05:00

To: Rose A. Howard, Palmyra NY (care of F. Forderkonz)

Stationery: Howard Photo Co.,
Views, Groups, Flash Lights
Portraits at your own home.
403 Bear St., Syracuse, NY

April 30, 1909

Dear Frau,

Yours received and it sounds as though you weren’t feeling very well yesterday.

The weather has indeed been very bum lately but it ought to be good when it starts to be good. Of course you know how it rained this A.M. It warmed up about noon so I took the 1:30 PM car to Liverpool. Walked from Liverpool to Woodard and took train from Woodard to Liverpool and came in on trolley from Liverpool.

The maps are a great help in picking out a route.

I made 16 pictures some o f them were on a gamble but if they turn out good expect results from most of them.

Light was rather poor and I probably could have done better.

Willis Wright is back from Cleveland and was here this afternoon. Is coming to-night with some propositions so I thought I would write this letter before supper, as we start developing right after supper.

I intend to go out to-morrow morning in country and if I can get back on time will try to reach the farm Saturday evening.

Will probably take a train to Lyons or Newark and trolley from there. Don’t think I shall try to dead head. If impossible to get there conveniently you will not see me until Sunday A.M.

Will decide what train to return on when I see you. We can arrange some way to get goods back. Can express if no other way. Will bring our old suit case.

Yours truly,

Max

Nelson just came up stairs to tell me that Alfons is here.

Supper is also ready.

Alfons would not stay to supper. He is getting 10 per week now.

Have finished supper and will now seal letter.

Max

August 30, 1909

2008-02-18T18:59:00.000-05:00

To: Rose A. Howard, Palmyra, NY (care F. Forderkonz)

Syracuse, NY

Dear Frau,

Two letters received from you to-day and pleased to hear how well you are getting along.

I haven’t been out of the yard to-day but will have to go out to mail this letter very soon as it is getting along toward 10 o’clock.

You received a post card from Alphonse to-day. He is in Buffalo. Has work. I can’t lay my hands on the card just now but if I don’t find it to enclose in the letter will send to-morrow.

Made quite a batch of prints to-day. Will have to get up early in the morning and make about 90 small pictures that I didn’t get finished. Chas. got 6 rolls film from Weld Dalton Co. to-night. Enclosed find button to your sweater.

I made one print from flash light picture that is out of contact on one half so will send the good half to give you an idea how the picture looks. I suppose you met all your old friends yesterday. Write.

Yours truly,

Max

August 31, 1909

2008-02-18T18:57:00.000-05:00

Syracuse, NY

Dear Wife:

Yours received to-day. A man was killed near the Park this afternoon in a runaway. Father saw it and is telling Chas. about it now.

Business was pretty fair at the Fair Grounds to-day. Next week I probably won’t be able to go anywhere else. Also Chas. work in dev. and prtg. is booming to-day. About a week’s work from Weld-Dalton Co. Chas. collected 2.75 to-day from 3 orders he made Saturday.

Don’t seem able to find Alphons’ post card to-day, but enclose letter received from Mrs. Illston to-day. Saw Frank for a couple minutes on my way back from Fair Grds. Men are getting along pretty well with shingling and will be done in a couple days. I made 11 prints of the Flashlight picture and mailed 1 to Mr. Shuts at NY and 10 to the store in Chittanango and am now looking for duplicate orders. If I need your help before the latter end of next week, will let you know, although if you finish your visit, glad to see you home anytime.

Let me know it any time and I will meet you at the train. Am going down town to deliver a couple orders that we can’t find at home during the day. Will look up shoes and shirt waist in a day or two.

Write.

Yours

Max

September 2, 1909

2008-02-18T18:56:00.000-05:00

To: Mrs. Rose A. Howard, Palmyra NY (care F. Forderkonz)

Syracuse, NY

Dear Frau:

Yours received to-day. Do not seem to get much other mail while you are away. Enclose post card received from Alphonse a few days ago.

Had my shoes tapped to-day.

Have been home all day and made about 300 prints. Ordered 5 (symbol that looks like an M with a circle though it) post cards to have the imprint “Howard Photo Co.” on. Expect them next Wednesday an d don’t expect to have enough for Fair week.

Monday is Labor Day. Shall probably see what I can do with paraders.

After seeing you on the train last week I went to see Mr. Sauber. His brother is running an office for the Murphy News Co. at Butte, Montana. Sauber said that Paul had gone to Mayville this summer and made a failure. I presume like a Jews failure he has made some money out of it, but probably has not satisfied Mr. A. with sale.

I presume you will want to come home Wed. or Thursday next week? Have you heard about our friend Mr. Cook (Walter?) discovering the North Pole. Think we had better spend the winter there.

You seem to be getting along all right with the children and they are probably enjoying theirselves.

Write.

Au Revoir

Max

Chas made some photos at Mrs. Blanche Laubenheimers to-day. Baby and house. He’s getting interested in 8 x 10 camera. He believes in making few pictures and getting the 50¢ ones.

September 4, 1909

2008-02-18T18:53:00.001-05:00

Syracuse, NY

Dear Frau:

Your short note received today.

Went to Fair grounds to-day. Had fair success with pictures there, although the rain and cloudy weather spoilt my chances of making any more pictures this afternoon. Monday is Labor Day. I don’t expect to make any more pictures for the workers at the fair as they will soon be through but I shall probably put what I have left on sale at 5¢ each Tuesday.

Father is talking big about the people he is going to get as subscribers. He tried to get Sam last night and he is going to land everybody that has ever done business with Chas. such as Theodore – Mather – the milk men, etc.

Chas. of course will land the same people for photographs.

There is a Buffum Automatic press in drug store downtown. This is similar to the one I was considering only a different make. It looks like a good proposition and I almost think I made a mistake in not starting that last Spring. But I think we will come out O.K. in the Fair.

I have been downtown shopping this evening. Did not send any laundry this week so I had to buy some clothes. Bought 2 pair socks – 2 collars – 1 white shirt – 2 pair near trousers – ½ lb candy. Just arrived home.

To-morrow morning will have to go down to Italian district to deliver some Button pictures and then from there to the Clam Bake at Rockaway Beach.

Will miss you to-morrow when I shave as my neck needs shaving.

Don’t forget to bring Kodak home with you. I never thought about mailing any films to you.

Write

Yours truly,

Max

October 12, 1909

2008-02-18T18:51:00.000-05:00

Rochester NY Oct 12, 1909

Dear Frau:

Am in kitchen while Josephine is getting supper ready. Miss Slattery from Palmyra is also here. She came to town to-day to get money out of the bank, but on account Columbus Day, banks were closed.

Met Miss Curran this afternoon. She does not look very good but is getting around all night – and works at the same restaurant she formerly worked out.

Mr Shear (as I told you last night) is rooming here.

Mr. Miller just came into the house.

Josie rented one room to-day to a couple who she expects to be permanent. That leaves 2 rooms vacant. Roomers keep shifting pretty well.

Ought to have brought my rain coat with me but will get along.

If I raise the price may run down to see you Sunday. Miss you here. It doesn’t seem quite so much like home without you and the children.

I can’t give you much idea of how business will be yet. Although I am not expecting a $100 week.

Negatives made last night were all right but the lights are not arranged for any good picture. At corners they just have a cluster of lights shaped something like a bell and they are all similar. Then today I monkeyed around all day getting in shape to print and made up some developer and after getting it made up got too much bromide in so that prints would not have good blacks. Will get up early to-morrow and run some off as I know where I am at now, but don’t really anticipate any tremendous sales. If business does not get good will try the country Thursday or Friday. Am not rushed so as to need you assistance up here, but see no reason why you couldn’t be here if printing is all done there and wished to be here. But perhaps we can finish up there better if you stay for a while but if you feel like it you can clear out at any time and come here for a week’s visit if you have the fare.

They have rather bum weather so far for the exposition.

We had five at table to-night for supper. Other was Miss Drumma of Canandaigua. Please send on any mail that will interest me and keep any that won’t where I can look it over.

Write

Yours truly,

Max

January 17, 1910

2008-02-18T18:49:00.000-05:00

Envelope engraved: Howard Photo Co., 403 Bear Street, Syracuse, NY

To: Rose A. Howard, Palmyra, NY (care F. Forderkonz)

Syracuse, NY Jan 17, 1910

Dear Frau:

Arrived home O.K. last night. The Limited car does not stop at Port for Syracuse passengers so that we made the depot just about right. Waited about 12 minutes for car that took me to Newark car barn and walked to Newark. Caught next limited car from there at 9:12. Mother was up when I arrived so I had no trouble getting gin.

The store had a little over $3.00 business Saturday.

Went to Camillus on noon train to-day and delivered work O.K. and made a little new work. Landed order for 6 subjects on printed card. Will make 300 of each subject at $1.00 per 100.

Will not clear anything on first order but expect will duplicate several times. Do you prefer to have shanty built on rear end of lot or front. Seems less homelike around here with the family gone.

Write

(Have just arrived from Camillus and will go down and mail this before eating supper.)

January 18, 1910

2008-02-18T18:48:00.000-05:00

Syracuse, NY Jan 18, 1910

Dear Frau:

Yours received this morning and dropped in fire. I forwarded letter from Josephine after reading. Noticed what she said about mortgage. Might write her to try some of the real estate companies for loans. It rained so hard this morning that I did not try to take camera with me to-day.

First thing I did was to take car down to Matson Ave. where Rice Co. have built one house and are building another. The houses look very good but do not look large. They are just 2 stories no attic very neat color etc. They advertise to sell the one they are building for $100 down.

Then I went to deliver that order of post cards with 2 ladies and babies. Found a Scarlet Fever Placard on house so did not go in. Returned to town and went in to see Rice Co. and do not think that we can come to any agreement yet as every time I have been in there they have wanted more than before. To-day he wanted 100 besides the lot down. So we had probably better rent for awhile. Will find some sort of place when you think you want to start in.

Went to Marcellus Falls. Order for 30 pictures from school photos there. Delivered other work. Last week a woman spoke about having picture of baby made and changed her mind as she said baby had a cold she did not w ant to take out doors. To-day the baby was buried. This was at Marcellus. After returning to town went to see another engraving company and they made me better price on post card cuts so that I can make a profit on first order of 300 cards. Will take 3 pictures in to-morrow and get cuts made. Think that I can work up a land office business or this new plan in Spring.

Went over and looked at 4 room flat that Cash Papworth(?) advertises at 2.00 per week. Store had another $3.00 day yesterday. Not so good to-day.

Write.

Yours truly,

Max

Enclosed find Lantie’s letter. Write to Elizabeth and tell her that I will mail her a few photos in a few days. Chas. made some prints blocked out today.

January 20, 1910

2008-02-18T17:47:00.003-05:00

Envelope engraved: Howard Photo Co., 403 Bear Street, Syracuse, NY

To: Rose A. Howard, Palmyra, NY (care F. Forderkonz)

Syracuse, NY

7:05 PM

Dear Frau:

Have just finished supper. Had pineapples for supper. Have been out to Kirkville and Chittenango to-day. Had pretty fair day, although when I started out did not expect to do much more than clean up my work as I knew I could not get any schools to-day. But whenI got to Mycenae, had people running out after me and made fair amount of work. Collected $3.00 in advance. To-morrow I may not go very far. Look for me Saturday noon on West Shore train.

Last night I wrote a letter to you and went up stairs for envelope. After addressing envelope I put Lantie’s letter in it and I guess that is all I did put in as I found the letter in tablet this morning. Mailed so you will probably get it in this mail. Our lot is 30 x 70 so there is only room for one house.

The country is getting quite bare in spots and if this weather keeps up I will soon be able to get photos of houses without snow.

I am reading quite a little this week. Go to bed early and read until 11:30 or 12:00, Will see you Sunday.

Yours truly,

Max

January 21, 1910

2008-02-18T17:00:00.000-05:00

Envelope engraved: Howard Photo Co., 403 Bear Street, Syracuse, NY

To: Rose A. Howard, Palmyra, NY (care F. Forderkonz)

Syracuse, NY Jan 21, 1910

Dear Frau:

6 PM. Just arrived from down town. Have not done much of anything to-day but a few odd jobs. Intended to make enlargement but Chas was using room most of the time and light was also rather poor. Am mailing 6 photos to Elizabeth. Discovered what was the matter with shutter of my camera and as a result the pictures I made yesterday were all good which is good as I would hate to send money back.

Will not write any more as I will see you soon after you received this letter.

Yours truly,

Max

January 24, 1910

2008-02-18T16:59:00.000-05:00

Envelope engraved: Howard Photo Co., 403 Bear Street, Syracuse, NY

To: Rose A. Howard, Palmyra, NY (care F. Forderkonz)

Syracuse, NY

Dear Frau:

Arrived home O.K. last night same time as a week ago. Last night being a warm evening people were hanging around the streets in Newark and I was surprised at the number of young men there are there. The streets seemed to be alive with them. Ought to be some photo work to be done there. Also probably would pay to have a first class news room in waiting room there.

Went to Camillus this morning and made fair number of pictures. Don’t have to canvass any there as I either have appointments or they stop me on the street or send me some place.

Got my 3 plates (for post cards) to-night and they are all right. About as good as they photograph in fact when I get them fixed up, I think people will call them better than the photo cards.

Ordered 3 more Camillus cards. I will probably have 600 of each made of Camillus views as I will probably sell 400 or 500 of each subject at the start.

Store took in about $4.50 Saturday and will have $3.00 to-day.

Mr. Blanding was just in the store speaking about some paper he has to sell. He is taking orders for that $5.00 vacuum cleaner.

There was a house advertised in morning paper 7 rooms 2 story – cellar – water in. 1225. 25 down and 12.50 per month. Then the taxes and interest would have to be paid by buyer leaving the house paid for in 12 years. I may take a look at it.

Yours truly,

Max

January 26, 1910

2008-02-18T16:57:00.000-05:00

To: Rose A. Howard, Palmyra, NY (care F. Forderkonz)

Syracuse, NY

Dear Frau:

5:15 P.M. Just arrived home. Met Lena while I was waiting for car and she w anted me to send her regards and ask why you don’t send her a card.

Did not receive any letter from you to-day but received three letters in our printed envelopes. The 3 contained 2.23 cash and orders for 3.00 worth of work.

I made pictures of 4 schools to-day. Found 1 school closed and the last school I went to had their picture made late in fall, so I did not make them. Some man from Auburn had made a great many schools in that section so I will have to make a little jump on my western trip. But next time I strike his schools I will make a post card as he made 30¢ pictures. Bainbridge is a little slow getting out my cards so that I will probably have to work on them some next Saturday as I want to deliver them Monday. So I will come out there as early as convenient Saturday, but as I can’t give exact time, don’t try to meet me as I can easily walk over.

Uncle Ernest and Dudley are here. They are down town with Chas. now. Nelson passed or has been promoted.

Feels a trifle cold in the house that is I am fairly comfortable with my coat on but house does not seem to be overheated any.

Yours truly,

Max

February 3, 1910

2008-02-18T16:55:00.001-05:00

To: Rose A. Howard, Palmyra NY (care F. Forderkonz)

Syracuse, NY

Dear Frau:

We have had lovely weather all day to-day. I have stayed at home to enjoy it. Have been working all afternoon straightening up.

Your letter received.

Hope that Earl is much better by this time. Will look for you at 5:40 PM (Friday) (they day you receive this letter). If you don’t see right on the job go in waiting room and wait as I shall probably go out of town and may not be able to get there right on the minute. Then again it may be possible that if I should get west I might get on your car just before you reach city.

Regards to all the family

Yours truly

Max

May 2, 1910

2008-02-18T16:40:00.001-05:00

To: Rose A. Howard, Palmyra NY (care F. Forderkonz)

Syracuse, NY May 2 1910

Dear Frau:

Just finished supper. It is now 8:30. Arrived in town at 7:50 after spending the day in Lyons. Shot up the town this afternoon for my friend Getman. 1^st (symbol of M with circle though) at 20. Did not finish making all the subjects but got most of them. Promised him exclusive but almost sorry as I had another druggist speak to me on the street about cards. May make him 20 more subjects later. They have been waiting quite a while for me up in that section.

Karbo people flunk on giving 25% on cards. Want 5.25 (symbol of M with circle through it).

Will develop to-night.

Mother received letter from Newell in which he speaks about my letter telling him that I was intending to move into the country.

Apr. 8 was the lucky day or April. Father must have had Chas. help in in picking out the day. It was a 2.20 day so I shouldn’t be surprised if the costumers would lose interest in the Lucky Day Scheme. Only found 360 in my mail today. Will take this letter down to corner now and come back to work. Just been listening to father explaining about how “I pick any day” etc and it sounds like a light comedy.

Write

Max

May 4, 1910

2008-02-18T16:37:00.002-05:00

To: Rose A. Howard, Palmyra NY (care F. Forderkonz)

Syracuse NY

Dear Frau:

Shipped 1525 lbs today. Many things that will be missed are still here but I had about all I could get ready for one shipment and it made a good load.

Cartage cost 1.50

Freight cost 2.75

Tips .20

4.45 which I considered was O.K.

Did not get out to do any business to-day but will go up Skaneateles way to-morrow and Chittenango Friday. Saturday will make western trip ending at Port Gibson. The furniture will leave here in morning and will probably arrive in Port Thursday afternoon or evening.

Paper says we are to get a frost before morning. But I don’t think it will last very long.

Mrs. Garvey was sorry you were moving way. Said she w as awful sorry she was not home when you called and would like to have you visit her some time. Glad to have you stay over night.

Went around to see about some of the Weston cards last night. Collected about 3 and still have a couple hundred to hear from. By dropping price think I will dispose of nearly all of them in time.

Am getting anxious to get everything moved and located. Yours truly, Max

Just looked over Bill of Lading and see that the clerk did not enter all the items on it. There were 45 pieces and he has billed 40.

I think that chairs will make up. He has down 1 High Chair and 2 Rockers. In addition I sent at ~~least~~ 4 dining room chairs and the red plush chair without rockers. Which would make count right. See if the chairs come all right.

May 5, 1910

2008-02-18T16:36:00.001-05:00

Envelope engraved: Howard Photo Co., 403 Bear Street, Syracuse, NY

To: Rose A. Howard, Palmyra, NY (care F. Forderkonz)

From: Syracuse, NY

Dear Frau:

Yours received to-day and contents noted. Will try to remember to put a 2 dollar bill and pen in this letter. Received a letter from Forrester to-day. Paper written or is rather large so I won’t try to enclose but will bring with me Saturday. I probably won’t leave here Saturday until after mail man goes past. Collections fair to-day. About 19, but will get rid of it all right away. Received circulars of mantle lamps that look pretty good.

Am not trying to land business around here so very much now, but have had plenty of printing ahead for Chas. right along.

Go to Chittenango and Canastota to-morrow.

Glad that you have been able to do something at the house.

Yours

Max

May 10, 1910

2008-02-18T16:34:00.001-05:00

Envelope engraved: Howard Photo Co., 403 Bear Street, Syracuse, NY

To: Rose Howard, Palmyra, NY (care F. Forderkonz)

From: Syracuse, NY

Dear Frau:

Went to Lock Berlin and made school there. My tripod would not work and as it was rather windy and I could not be sure of my pictures I came through to the city and paid 5.00 on sewing machine and received permission to move it. Forgot to get shipping tags down town and thought I would wheel down and get them. Got 2 ½ blocks from home and my pedals dropped apart at the sprocket and I returned home. Will sell wheel cheap and buy an automobile.

Collected 1.15 at 5&10 cent store for Weston cards. Hove a couple more places to report yet. Found no money in mail but found a couple good orders aggregating $10.00 to be gotten out this week.

Chas. has a camera to try. It is just like mine, only with a more expensive lens. The man who owned it had just bought it and dropped dead. Family want to sell it and he will probably buy it for about 80.00 cash. Have written to Kalamazoo Store Co, and mentioned a range that has (4-9 inch lids, 2-7 inch lids) and oven is 16 in wide 20 ¼ deep 13 ¼ high. They also make the same range with 6-8inch lids or 6-9 inch lids and oven 18x20 ¼ and 13 2/4 or 20x 20 ¼ and 13 ¼

Which do you prefer?

Gave Clarissa your address.

Write

Yours truly,

Max

May 19, 1910

2008-02-18T16:32:00.001-05:00

From: Syracuse NY

Dear Frau:

Busy to-day getting goods together. Have them all picked out now, although I should like to have a couple barrels we have at Pt. Gibson and the packing would be simplified.

Enclosed find letter from Elizabeth and post card from Mrs. Illston.

Nelson is still complaining. Has sore throat now.

Will probably ship goods to-morrow. There is a new photo printer being made in Nebraska that prints 1200 to 1400 from 1 negative in 1 hour.

Met Mr. Miller (popcorn fritter man) in Lyons last night. My car from Pt. Gibson only went as far as Lyons so I had to wait over there 40 minutes. Am mailing bottle Hy over to your father and will bring the other bottle with me.

Yours truly,

Max

January 27, 1910

2008-02-18T16:30:00.001-05:00

To: Rose A. Howard, Palmyra NY (care F. Forderkonz)

From: Syracuse, NY

Dear Frau:

6:40 PM just arrived home. Have been in new direction to-day south and south east Maulins, Oran, etc. Made pictures of 3 schools and some private work. One school only represented 2 families and another had their picture made lately so can’t expect too much from my school work to-day.

Last night Nelson crouped nearly all night. They have no school the rest of this week and this morning he hung around first over the register, then in the store and then to the window. I told Chas. that he ought to be put to bed but of course you know how quickly he takes any suggestion of that sort. When I arrived this evening his grandmother Clark was here and Nelson is laid out in the Morris chair and being nursed. Had Dr.; Edwards. Says that he has bronchitis and his temperature is 103 and Mrs. Clark says she would rather have a scarlet fever case.

Have not looked up $1225 house. Intended to try and get around to see a house that is to rent for $10 per month to-night but did not get into town early enough. Uncle Ernest and Dudley stayed here all night and left at 8 AM

Write

Yours truly

Max

March 19, 1912

2008-02-18T16:29:00.000-05:00

Envelope: After 10 days return to

FRANCIS HENDRICKS & CO.
116 East Fayette Street,
Syracuse, NY

Addressed to M.C. Howard, 403 Bear St., City

March 19 1912

Bill of sale for 500 Normal Glossy Post Cards for 3.50

November 27, 1912

2008-02-18T16:27:00.001-05:00

To: M.C. Howard, 403 Bear St., Syracuse, NY

Stationery: The Union News Company

From: Buffalo NY

M. C. Howard

Dear Brother,

Yours just received so will pen a few lines intending to all greetings trusting that you will not over-eat.

Stolz brought me a Penn. Turkey so we will celebrate with Turkey. Wish you were all able to be here and partake of same with us.

Now in regards to going to work on the road. Would suggest that you send me your measure for uniform unless you have one and I will have one made for you out (?) pay for it and left if apply Mr. Howe left this area on train #40 having been visiting his mother who lives in Mo. A trip he takes annually. With best wishes all I am

Yours very truly,

Brother Newell

November 29, 1912

2008-02-18T16:24:00.000-05:00

To: M.C. Howard, 403 Bear St., Syracuse, NY

Stationery: The Union News Company

From: Buffalo NY

Max

Yours received. Advise when you wish to come on to work will send you transportation, possibly I will place you on 43 and 43.

Yours in haste,

Newell

Tell mother I received her letter and will answer it later

April 6, 1931

2008-02-18T16:16:00.000-05:00

to: Mrs. R.A. Howard, 422 Tremont St., Rochester, NY

from: Rochester, NY

Dear Wife:

We arrived at 403 Bear St. at 6:45. Stopped an hour a t Port Gibson and made a short stop at Franks in Baldwinsville.

We had no auto trouble and came through in good shape. We stopped at 6 PM and ate our eggs and sandwiches. We were served with lunch at Port. The housekeeper is busy in the kitchen. I rather suspect she is getting us something to eat.

I told the Skinners that if they went to Rochester now they would have a room and garage. I don’t know if they will go or not. Mattie is expecting to have to get some chickens from Hatchery to-morrow. A junk dealer was talking with Mr. Skinner and offered him $10.00 for his old car and a stove.

Am enclosing list of Old Glory winners.

I see that Earl is not in on the winning. Nelson found it in the paper after Earl called up Sunday. I haven’t talked very much about our plans with Charles yet.

Have had supper. Paul has a loose tooth lower front that he will be losing.

When we were coming along the girls were playing the alphabet game at one time Paul called out “There’s J” The girls said “where?” Then Paul with a disappointed tone said “Oh! It was an H.”

Nelson picked up about 60 rolls of film to-day. That is rather big for this early in the season and it looks as though Nelson would be swamped with work. Tuesday’s letter you better address care of Ernest E. Howard R.D. #2 Parish NY. Wed. letter if I don’t write different send to 403 Bear St.

Yours truly

Max