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In this blog you will find transcriptions of letters received by my great-grandfather Henry Sourbeer Makibbin during his first several months in the US Navy. They cover the period from August 1907 to February 1908. During this time he was at training in Rhode Island, and then at sea on the USS Tennessee. Most of the letters are from his mother and father; a few are from friends or relatives.

I hope Great-grandfather Henry's descendants will enjoy reading these letters. Special thanks go to my mother Sherry Higgins Downing, who has preserved them over the years. Please contact me with any questions; I would be happy to discuss them with you.

TD

Letter to Henry from his mother August 7, 1907

Cover:

Henry S. Makibbin

U. S. N. Training Station

Newport, R. I.

Bar. C.

Postmarked 11:30 PM, Aug 7 1907, Harrisburg PA

Wednesday evening [August 7, 1907]

Dear Henry –

We arrived home safely this morning, left N. Y. – 11.15.  Monday we went to Central Park and enjoyed the fine pictures.  Isn’t The Horse Fair magnificent I was so glad to see it.  There were several other paintings of “Bonheur” that are loaned – the original of the Lion’s head, some sheep in pasture that are beautiful and a group of horses in a small size – also two bulls fighting, the latter in an odd coloring of dull dark blue, you could almost see the smoke of the battle.  It is certainly a treat of one’s life to see “The Horse Fair.”  I am sure you can call it to mind any time you want. 

It has been very warm here today folks say it has been warm for several days it is certainly a great change from Newport air, this evening the smoke hangs very thick you could almost cut it.

Anna was a good girl while we were gone and Fred says he made Lilly go in her own room and lock the door.

I have been very tired too much at a stretch but I will get rested tonight I think.  Anna was so glad to see me I went out for her this afternoon the first thing she said to me was, “Mama did you take something to Henry?” and then “How does he look?”

Since we were away Ab Clemm cut his foot on a piece of glass.

Mr. Sam Wagner on Sixth St. died from lockjaw caused by hurting two fingers in stopping a runaway team in which were three little girls.

I almost forgot to tell you – we took a ride up the Hudson to West Point and was there to see the dress parade which takes place at 5.40 – We saw them take down the flag while the band played “Star Spangled Banner.”  It was very nice indeed.  Aunt Anna and Uncle Ralph are going to stay awhile in Perry Co. on that little place owned by an aunt of Uncle Ralph’s. 

Get your little tablet for notes the first opportunity you have.  Fred & Alfred are both looking anxiously for a letter.

Good night my dear boy

Love from all

Mother 

Letter to Henry from his father August 8, 1907

Cover:

Henry S. Makibbin

U. S. N. Training Station

Newport, R. I.

Barracks C.

Postmarked 11:30 PM, Aug 8 1907, Harrisburg, PA

H.bg Aug 8-07

My Dear Son:

I wished you to have a letter for Sunday, so I am writing this to be sure of your having it.  It is very hot here, I did not go out today, but will try it on Saturday.  I need not tell you that I was pleased with you on Sunday.  I would of course liked you to [have] shaved & think when you can have a safe place for you to have a safety & stick of soap.  In your work neatness will count for much.

The Youths Com. that was mailed today for you may be against the rules your mother would like you to find out.  We were not sure.

Your mother told you of Mr. Sam Wagner’s death.  He poor fellow had no show for recovery on account of his drinking habits.  It is that way on the Road.  A drinking man stands poor show of recovery. 

I forgot to ask you how much your wages are.  Your mother & I think you had better use milk instead of coffee if you can get it.

Fred got your postal today & Mrs. Puffenberger who was here said Alfred was pleased to get a letter.  Grandpop Sourbeer was here this evening. & your uncle Ralph was to McCalls Ferry on Sat.  Aunt Anna goes to Perry Co. tomorrow, a place near Donnelly’s Mills.

I would not think that a man who would have to do with marksmanship, would drink or do anything to distrust his system or nerves.

I trust that you will get to Trinity Church, it will not take many visits for you to learn their mode of worship.  For if you visit foreign ports that will often be the only kind you will find. & I suppose it is the kind used on shipboard. 

I hear that the Connecticut killed a fireman on her trial off the coast.

Good night,

Your affectionate father,

Jas. G. Makibbin

Letter to Henry from his mother, probably August 10, 1907

8:30 Sat evening

Dear Henry –

Enclosed find the money order so you can get some milk &c.  I do trust your cough is better do you know what might have caused it?  Do not try to work if you are sick.  Maybe you overtaxed yourself when you were below par, be careful as you can.

Do you get dry clothes on after such vigorous exercise as your battalion drill?  If you do not try and keep running if possible so you do not chill but cool off gradually.

This is not a letter by any means but I must tell you we are so glad to have yours.  Fred is anxiously watching the mail.  He gets your paper & buys the stamps for them by selling an extra. 

Don’t be backward in asking for something for your cough or when you are not well.  I shall feel better if I know you will look after yourself.

Oh I feel so sorry for the young man hurt his hand.  I hope it will not give him any serious trouble.

Lovingly,

Mother 

Letter to Henry from his father August 22, 1907

Home Port – Aug 22-07

My Dear Son:

I trust by this time you are feeling O.K.  Did any of those three war vessels take any of your new acquaintances?  It is nine o’clock & we had our usual day on the road, a beautiful & clear day.  I noticed by the papers that you had a storm up your way.  I wrote you a 14 paper letter & I wished Fred to have it weighed before sending it but he did not do so, maybe it is on hold for additional postage.  I like you to have a letter from home for Sunday, so am writing this.  Your Mother does not pick up much.

Jimmie Yeater was off to a pic-nic last trip.  He won the prize in the fat man’s race.  His wife won a prize for pushing the wheel-barrow blindfolded.

I was glad to know that you attended Church at Trinity.  Wish I could have been with you.  I am glad you spoke of the party that broke liberty, going away on the Priscilla.  The fact that they do not care, is the bad part.  Always treat your liberty as a thing of honor, never violate it, for you are trusted with it, prove worthy of the trust, do not mind what any of them may say to you about such ideas.  The strong man is the man that controls himself. 

Fred McCullough of Indianapolis, aged 19 was here today, I did not get to see him.  He was going to stay about town 1 week, but his father sent for him. 

I had the 1047 today, first for a long time, she was on other runs & in the shop.

How do you get along with your bunch?  You are no doubt in bed by this time as this was your big drill day.  Hope you were complimented again.

Wagners came home tonight.

Good night,

Your affectionate father,

Jas. G. Makibbin

I pray for you daily

Letter to Henry from his father, with a note from his sister Annie, September 8, 1907

Cover:

Henry S. Makibbin,

U. S. N. Training Station,

Newport, R. I.

Barracks C.

Postmarked 11:30 PM, Sep 8 1907, Harrisburg, PA

Home Port Sep 8 – 07

My Dear Son:

Just a few lines before going to bed.  Your mother, the baby & I took [a] walk to Mrs. Cooks, your Aunt Bess & on down to Reigels, this evening.  Of course we talked much about you.  Ross is on the new Mulberry st bridge job, he has been away seven years.  

I thought much about that island you are on, today.  I do hope you fellows will get liberty soon, the decent fellows any way. 

Finals score seemed different from what he said.  Your score over those rifle ranges must have been among the best.  Was it the best in your bunch?  You see I am a little curious.  Who got the appointments made vacant boy P. O. I mean Kelly & Johnson.  I would like to know who got those places.

On my way to the Round House this a.m. I stopped at Maclay P. O. I always do, so no letter from you will lay until Monday.

On my way home I stopped at Church & heard Mr. Hart preach from 6 chap & 1 verse Hebrews “Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection:” It was an uplifting sermon, one that enables a fellow to take a fresh grip on his work.  I always pity a man who cannot use his religion to work with.  It has always been so much to me.  You said something of the Sec. of the Navy not approving the idea of a league in the Navy.  But my boy you can have your own moral league.

I do wish for you success at the Signals & will be pleased through & through if you make that rating.  But if you do not, do not be discouraged, for when you get aboard a Battle Ship, remember that what you see about you & you are a part of, is not only a war vessel of your own Country but is a product of all civilization, worked down to the present moment & I suppose is one of the most highly & finely organized body of men guns and machinery that we have on the globe.  And I know you will be able to fit in your place.  For I notice your attention to details.  I was much pleased with your appearance & sorry I was unshaven, I expected to find a barber shop on the Kennebec.

In your Signal practice do you strive for speed, or do you strive for perfection in displaying the signals?  I of course know that your instructor points out what is good work, but I like to know.  Tell me all the little things that go to make up your life & it will be such a help every word you write is enjoyed to the full. 

To me the signal man that wins must be a man who goes over & over them until they are a part of his very brain, & that you know means time.  But by all means try for that rating as soon as you can.  You will at least know how you stand & do not let any man or circumstance dismay or discourage you in anything you determine to do.  The signal man I should think would come in contact with the officers in the boat, so of course appearance will cut a figure here, & I would suggest that you have an extra neckerchief that will be perfectly clean to wear during inspections.  Your Mother says they wash beautifully.  I would be glad for an old one you had discarded, but the best one new & clean you keep for occasions when it will do most good.

Affectionately, Jas. G. Makibbin

Dear Henry,

I would like to see you and I send my love to you.  Good night.

Kisses,

Annie

Letter to Henry from his mother September 19, 1907

Cover:

Mr. H. S. Makibbin,

U. S. N. Training Sta.,

Newport R. I.

Barracks B.

Postmarked 11:30 PM, Sep 19 1907, Harrisburg, PA

Dear, dear Henry –

Just a good night-kiss from Mother I cannot use my arm only a very little at a time.  I am about and glad to be so.  Anna is not so well, has only been to school a day this week.  I do trust that you are completely well and will keep your health, do take care of your body that nothing within your power shall mar its perfection.

I had my heart set on something extra for you Sat. but was not able to do it, and Aunt Annie had her hands full with some canning.  Anna is anxious to see you, my how she talks of you.

I saw Alfred a few minutes at the window this evening.  I guess I will never get accustomed to seeing those boys without my dear bonnie Laddie.

God keep my boy,

Lovingly,

Mother – 

Entry in a serial letter to Henry from his mother September 25, 1907

Wednesday eve – Sep – 25^th 

Dear Son –

In vain I looked for three mails today for a letter, I had so fully expected one.  If only you are all right but oh it seems so long.  We all enjoyed your dear letter so much.  You will always love growing things I am sure and enjoy them wherever you may be.  It made me glad to know someone had been kind to you and I am grateful in my heart and pray God’s blessing on everyone who is kind to my big boy – 

Entry in a serial letter to Henry from his mother September 26, 1907

8 – P.M – Thursday

Dear boy I waited purposely thinking we might have a letter in the noon mail and sure enough it came – Of course now we are anxious to hear further.  I know you are glad and I will try to be, but it only brings the time closer for your long stay during which we cannot often hear, and so long without seeing you – However we are going to be brave and write letters just the same that you will have ever so many to read, enough to keep you busy until the next mail.  I can scarcely wait now to hear more particulars.

We have had a decided change in the weather, after much rain and close atmosphere, it is clear and colder.  I wondered if you were cold yesterday it was quite so here but the wind kept up and there was no frost just about here.  I guess you have been too busy to know whether it was cold or not, do you know I felt there was a change going on, it is somewhat sooner than you thought. 

Well now you will see something quite different in every way.  Tell us if your little friend is with you, I was so glad to hear of him for your sake, & I hope we may get to see him.

Entry in serial letter to Henry from his mother September 28, 1907

Saturday Noon – While waiting for papa to come to dinner will talk to you a bit – He has to go up the road to get some few things Emma is sending – it suited her to send them today.  Fred is off to the “gym” and Anna went out to Aunt Anna’s this morning herself in the car.

Aunt Bess was here last evening quite a bit, before and after practice.  Park stayed with Anna and they had a nice evening looking at the pictures in different books.

We are being entertained on the left by music practice, Elwood has begun lessons, and just now we are also kept busy seeing people who wish to sell a piano.  Because you happen to say to someone you believe you’ll get a piano one of these days the whole fraternity know it somehow.  I tell them when your father wants an instrument he will likely go buy one but they insist on some arrangement to see him.

I had such a vivid dream of you last night.  You came home much sooner than you had expected and you did look so well, but you did not wear your uniform after you came home and I thought it surely meant you were not going back.

Entry in serial letter to Henry from his mother October 15, 1907

Oct. 15 [1907] – My dear boy – Well how time goes on, it surely waits for no man – I wrote you on Oct. 6^th from Aunt Doll’s but forgot to ask if you received it, I suppose you did before you left.  Oh, I felt so badly that you were late for I knew you would be anxious, but how glad we were when we saw the words “I was excused.”

We have the paper giving the route of the boat, if only we hear from you.  Be sure to get something from each place you stop.  I know you will get on shore for you are going to keep First Class.  Views of the different places would be fine & not take much room.  Then when you get to San Francisco you could send some things home by mail so you would have as much room as possible.  Oh dear heart there are so many things I wanted to talk over with you, but I am thinking of and praying for you every hour and minute.  I know you are seeing the same beautiful moon these evenings and we are all with you in spirit as we try to think where you are every morning and evening.  And Anna wants to know “Where is Henry now?”

Entry in serial letter to Henry from his mother October 20, 1907

Oct. 20 [1907] – Sunday evening.  Dear Henry – We heard through the papers that a “Wireless” had been received at Key West, that you were expected at Port of Spain on the 18^th – By the papers before you were due on the 17^th so we have been following you all the time, as you were to stay there three days you will likely have left by this time or probably not until morning.  I know you will enjoy intelligently all the things you will see – But how good to think the same sun and moon shines on us all –

Papa and Annie and I were out to Aunt Anna’s on her birthday the 17^th.  There was an entertainment the same evening at our Church for the benefit of the “Home.”  I asked Ruth W – to take Anna as you know Fred does not care for that sort of entertainment.

Anna is sitting here by me copying a poem and she has improved greatly in her writing – Papa is on the couch resting and Aunt Annie at the front window watching the people on their way to church.  Papa had a mind to go to Market Square but his back hurts him and it has been raining – We have had beautiful weather and of course we are always thinking how you are and what you are doing.  Fred is wrestling with some Algebra he has gone up to the little room.

Entry in serial letter to Henry from his mother October 27, 1907

Sunday eve – Oct. 27 – 1907

Dear, dear Henry – 

We have had a busy week trying to clean some house, Aunt Annie did the third story and my room and Annie’s.  Do not know when we can finish as Aunt Annie went away on Saturday.  We had quite a surprise last week from Phila – Uncle Ed went to Fort Worth, Texas on trial and they may move but I sincerely hope it will not come to pass – I have not yet gotten up to Spruce Creek but hope to soon, I had a very nice letter from Aunt M – she seems anxious for me to come, they were all disappointed I could not get up last week. 

We have had such beautiful weather but real snappy – very heavy frosts every morning – Papa says whenever he sees the frost, “I bet Henry would like to have a little of this” – I know he is saying this is “bloomin’ hot.”  It must seem strange to you – to think you will have no winter this year. 

We had some news from you Friday – the Navy department said you were at Port O’ Spain six days and how anxiously we will look for letters, oh dear boy write much just your whole life – Little things you may not think of interest will be much and every item devoured.  

This has been a rainy day but we needed it badly it has been so dry.  Mr. Hart is away on his vacation and when he announced last Sunday who was to preach he asked that everyone who could possibly come should be there.  Papa and Anna went, and Papa said such a sermon he had not heard in a long time.  The subject was “The Cross of Christ” – And his talk was on our life and how we bore the Cross for Him.  

Oh son never be ashamed, I know there may be few of your associates who own their Savior or know Him but stand firm.  They cannot but respect your life if you are true to your colors, and you may do them or someone much good.  Keep that end in view and live a clean, pure life.  I know you will but don’t be discouraged and try and win some one for the Kingdom.

Uncle Hanson and Margaret were in a while this morning they had been for a walk to “Wildwood Park” and they had a beautiful bunch of autumn leaves.  Uncle Hanson talked of you and is most interested and anxious to hear about your work, and especially wants you to work hard for the Signal Corps. 

Keep us informed always how you are getting on with it.  I think you will make it all right and it will be such a nice part of the work I think and give you some interesting things to work about.  And those things I think you can do well as far as I can understand the work we feel you are entirely capable.  Then it will be so fine for all your friends and more than all the rest for your home folks to know you are doing your best and not staying at the bottom but climbing to the top.  You know there are plenty always to fill the places that do not require much mind but there is room for you further on I feel sure.

Entry in serial letter to Henry from his mother October 30, 1907

Tick-Tack evening –

We had your dear letter Monday morning in the midst of a heavy downpour and while it was gloomy outside, our hearts were glad.  It was such a surprise, I was expecting a letter in a week or so but would not let myself dwell on it – for it would be too great a disappointment should anything occur to detain it.  If we had known you would be at Trinidad so long we would have tried to get you a letter at Montevideo – but father had written to the P. M. – at N. Y. and he could not give us any information only that boats clear every five days for Callao, Peru and it takes about eighteen days to make the trip.  So we will try and make up.  I am so sorry it is such a long wait for you. 

Tell me sometimes of your daily life just what you do from morning till night and from night till morning.  I was so hungry for some of it, but I did get a bit when you told me how you were dressing, and I imagined I saw you sketching and writing and again when you were watching the signaling and the chaplain came and spoke to you.  Aunt Anna was in with the baby that day and she was so glad to read your letter, Uncle Ralph came in too and we all looked on the map and saw the course your ship went, the Virgin Pass too and all the rest.

Old Mr. Saul died yesterday the 29^th.  I was over to see Miss Anna a while this evening, ----- I had forgotten to tell you, your father said the choir sang so well on Sunday morning, he spoke to Chester about it and he said everything did go well he guessed it was the sermon.

I have a lady here sewing, Miss Reeser who made my dresses when I was married, am having Anna a blue sailor dress the waist made just like yours with the stripe around the arm and two stripes in the cuffs and the sleeves full at the hand “just like Henry’s.”

Aunt Annie went away on Sat. unexpectedly and we do not know whether she will come back this winter or not.

Entry in serial letter to Henry from his mother November 6, 1907

Nov. 6 – Dear, dear Henry – We thought maybe you might get another letter off before you left Trinidad, but we have received nothing yet.  I wrote to the Navy Department at Wash. about sending a Christmas box, and they tell me to send anything via San Francisco to Callao.  But the Postmaster at N. Y. said differently so as soon as we can hear from N. Y. about the mail we will start our Christmas things.  I do hope you will get them all right. 

Now for some news, Aunt Doll is going to Texas, Uncle Ed has accepted the position of Assistant pastor at a large Presbyterian church there at Ft. Worth.  Uncle Ed expects to be at Fort Worth the 18^th of Nov., and Aunt Doll & the girls will be up to spend several weeks until their goods reach there.  Uncle Ed is to have charge of a Young Men’s club something like the Y. M. C. A. that meets every week and then to do D. School work.  He will get $125 per month and $300 for his expenses down.  It may be good for them but I don’t see how Aunt Doll will get on, for she gets so homesick even in Phila where she gets to see some of us and to be so far away will be dreadful.  I don’t believe you know about it but they were all at the Station to see you and stayed until 11 o’clock they were looking for you coming up & your being late getting in caused the miss they were all sorry.  Uncle George and Aunt Lizzie are going to take Aunt Doll’s house & that will be nice for they will take good care of it, and tend to the different payments as they come.

I want to get Uncle Ralph to make a checker board for Christmas I thought that would be nice.

Fred got 100 in Algebra, history, and Latin tests.  98 Monday in Latin.  He goes to Prof. Hull for history and likes him very much – Albert was here the day your letter came from Trin. and I let him read it.  He is trying to get in the Electric Light works on Fourth St.

Try a bit of something every day that you can send it will be so much to us.  I am hungry for every little bit from you & I should like something in diary form & I can keep it.  Of course I have all your letters but I will need plenty you know. 

I trust you will find the young man Cork a true man, clean & upright.  Tell me if you have had any time with Mr. Stiffel, you thought he seemed like a nice boy.  That was so nice in your officers to think of the men, we were indeed glad to hear they were so thoughtful.  Do make a friend of your chaplain he seems kindly and will be your friend I am sure, you can get much information from him, & he will give you good advice.  Papa and I are going to see the Bishop.  When I read that I was glad to remember you had seen him and heard him pray when Roosevelt was here.  You remember it was a beautiful prayer.

Papa’s trouble was just where the leg joins the body at the hip you know – he could not work for two weeks and cannot use that leg when he [unclear] and feels it when he stoops but otherwise it is doing well.

Entry in serial letter to Henry from his mother November 7, 1907

Nov. 7 – We have had word through “The Press” that you had arrived at “Rio” – and would remain until the 10^th so we can be thinking what you will be seeing and imagine what you are doing.  Anna is getting stars every day it reminds me of you so much.  She is also learning to do the dishes, does them nicely, the other day I gathered them together for her and went to lie down and she had everything done as orderly as I could & she had two small stew pans and the little frying-pan.  Of course there were just she & I for dinner, but she has been washing them for me and I dry them.  We have Miss Reeser with us now a lady who sewed for me when I was married, she was doing some sewing and when she found I was looking for help she offered to come.

I am trying to get something to you for Christmas – if you do not get it for that time I know we can be sure you will get more at San Francisco.  We are doing the best we can find out to get you something at Callao – if only this reaches you.  Of course we could send to “Frisco” now but that you would hardly get until you reached there. 

We read in the sketch in “The Press” there were 200 men off the ships the first day seeing the sights.  I wondered so much if you were among them.  So many people when away from home do things and go places in the way of sight-seeing, they would not begin to do at home.  I know you are too much of a man like your father to do this.  Keep yourself a clean, pure man like your father has always been and you will have your reward. 

We had a very stormy day and it always makes me think of the ocean in a storm.

We have not received the pictures yet, Mr. S. was away for a while and then when Papa called they were not done.  The proofs were fine, only the one in the uniform was a little smaller than I thought it would be, but it could not be better.  I have your ribbon hanging over our group picture.

When you get a chance send Charles Wagner a postal.  It will be greatly appreciated I know.  Anna was much pleased with her kisses, Oh! Yes!  She would like me to get her a blue tam & put your band on it.  I think I will in the spring.  Her sailor suit is lovely and she looks so nice in it.  How I wish this poor paper could tell you my heart’s love and desire – I can only trust and pray for you and I think there is no hour in the day or night when I am awake but that my heart goes out in prayer.  God bless and keep you.

- Mother

Letter to Henry from his pastor B. H. Hart November 12, 1907

Harrisburg, PA Nov. 12 1907

Parsonage

Fifth Street M. E. Church

419 Maclay Street

My Dear Henry: -

I saw your father yesterday afternoon and he said that a letter written to you last evening would be likely to reach you in a few days.  Unfortunately it was impossible for me to get at it last evening, and now I fear it will be some time before this reaches you, but I send if with the hope that it will still reach you at the time hoped for.

I was glad to learn from your father that you were getting along so nicely.  I suppose that life on a vessel is much like life anywhere else.  There are plenty of pleasant experiences and some that are not so pleasant, but that is just the way it is everywhere.  I know of no calling in this life where everything is just as one would like it.  Under such circumstances the only thing to do is to make the best of the unpleasant things, hoping for something better soon to turn up.  And there is one other lesson that every young man needs to learn sooner or later and the sooner it is learned the better it will be for him.  And that is that no man ever succeeds or gets the best out of life until he determines that there is some one thing in the world which he intends to do well, to work a little while at one thing and then a little while at another is simply frittering one’s life away and the sum total of his achievements is infinitely below what it would be had he stuck to some one thing.  About that one thing there will be plenty of unpleasant experiences but the thing is to stick regardless of the unpleasant things.

I presume you have now determined that your life work will be in the navy in which case the happy course for you will be to master every step before you take another and honorable promotion will come.  No doubt it is there as elsewhere – you will find associates whose principles will help you up and others that will drag you down.  It is needless for me to urge the importance of finding the former and in no instance becoming intimate with the latter.  I am very anxious that your life should be honorable and useful and there are multitudes of friends here who are anxious to hear only good of you.  I feel quite sure we will not be disappointed for one can scarce imagine how a boy with the home surroundings such as yours were, and with the kind of a father and mother such as yours, could ever do an unmanly act.  We are all praying that the Lord will tenderly watch over you and that your mind may be filled with the thoughts of the good and the true.  After all, these are the only things that pay. 

Have you yet become acquainted with the Chaplain of your vessel?  More than likely he will be a Catholic Priest for nearly all chaplains are, but that need make no difference.  You will find him a Christian and an educated gentleman and I would seek his society all you can.  Unconsciously such men have a good influence over us.

If you ever have a little time I would be very glad to receive a letter from you telling where you have been and where your duties are.

The church moves on in the usual way.  Will Watson has secured a position in Hollidaysburg and will leave us next week.  I dislike to see him go but perhaps it is all for the best.  Mabel Kennedy is married.

Sincerely your friend, B. H. Hart

Letter to Henry from his mother December 29, 1907

Sabbath evening Dec. 29 [1907]

Dear dear Son –

How glad I was to have your letter it did seem a long, long time but was not so bad for us as you.  It was too bad but papa did not think we could reach you.  Well I am sure though by this time you have had a number of letters and I hope something more.  I did so want to send you some smoked sausage but your father was afraid till you got it cooked, by favor of the cook and give a bit here and a bit there and maybe some fellow steal a march on you, that you wouldn’t get any.  But I have tried to send you some things of not much value in themselves but of untold value when sent with hearts full of love.

Henry I cannot tell you how I felt for you when I read your letter but amidst my tears I was proud of your honesty and your dear confidence.  And it is right in a way many things we all have to learn by experience and it is often a dear teacher but a good one, only make the most of it and keep up your courage and take I have faith enough to believe it will all come right.

And above all else be above things of evil report, you can be courteous to your comrades in work but need not be of them.  I am glad you have found someone who is trying to do right and thinks & tries to live as you.  You must tell him your mother’s dearest friend is a Lutheran and I am glad you are friends, remember me to him and tell him I shall pray for him too.  Oh how sadly these dear boys all need their mothers’ prayers and help in many ways.  I know you are sorry and I am sure you will prove it by doing your best now, if you are faithful and a manly boy and your conduct true it cannot but bring its reward and blessing.  You would never dishonor yourself or us by leaving in disgrace, I think I could never hold up my head.  And for your mother’s sake never think of it.

About going on the other side there will be much that would be grand for you and that talk of being stationed is only talk, we will hope for better things.  The captain on the Washington told Mrs. Magee they expected to be gone two years.  Your father & I are planning all the nice things we will want you to bring home so be of good cheer, I myself dare not think of the time, if I was well I could bear it better but I have awful battles to fight and must be brave for the rest of you.  So you see dear you are not alone in this and we are praying for strength for you all the time.

I am anxious too about your money.  I believe if I were you I’d deposit most of it or see what you could do, papa has found it a good plan not to have much about him.  We have lost money trying to help people and I would certainly hate to see you lose any of your hard earned money.  My Henry don’t you think it belittles a man to be of that stamp always in debt only to be a spendthrift.

I shall enquire who it is on the Hill, we have not heard of anyone.

Fred and Anna are going to Phila in the morning on papa’s train for the day.  They will go to see Independence Hall & then out to Aunt Lizzie’s for dinner, and come in and look around the stores & back at 5.30.  It is the pass papa got to go to Norfolk, you know he had to have a separate one for them to Phila.

It is just a bit after nine and papa & Anna have gone to bed, Fred went an errand to Will – and I want to finish your letter so he can take it to the mail.  I enclose Anna’s which she wrote all by herself. 

I almost forgot to tell you, my Chinese lilies you got me last fall a year are in bed, you know they only grew to leaves last spring, but this time I cut them as I had seen somewhere.

That was indeed strange about the grasshoppers & I believe you are right about it.  I am so glad you stay well.  That copy of the certificate is quite an idea, or the style rather.  I know you enjoyed the lectures & you will like The Virginian.  I was glad you had a card from Howard.  Do write us all the little things that concern your daily life or anything that troubles and we will do our best to help.  Those photographs are beautiful.

God bless and keep you pure.

With love and a Good New Year, lovingly –

Mother

Letter to Henry from his mother December 31, 1907

Cover:

Mr. Henry S. Makibbin

U. S. S. Tennessee

San Francisco

Cal.

Care of Post-Master

Last day of 1907

Dear, dear boy –

Indeed I must talk to you a bit, it is a beautiful afternoon and I have the house to myself.  Anna is on the Hill, had not been out yet to see Aunt Maime’s and Aunt Anna’s trees, so she started off this morning about ten o’clock.  Fred has gone for his papers, papa is on several errands and Miss Reeser has gone out too. 

I want so much to help you Henry, we all have many regrets and the only way out is to improve the days each one as it goes by and there must come to you a sense of satisfaction in work well done and duty performed.  I understand how you feel and am sure it will all come right if you do each little thing as right and unto God.  You know not a sparrow falleth that he does not notice how much more then His children. 

You know there are no rougher men than as railroad and rolling-mill and nowhere can you find a better man than my father and yours.  And grandpa Makibbin has always been a man and had to be among rough men.  You see it is this, while you must be among them at your work they do not need to be your companions.  Look for the true and good and I am sure you will find it.  Then remember too, your influence will count for much, may be the means of saving some mother’s boy.  

Do not be shy of going to your chaplain.  It will help you much, I am sure, and he will be glad I know to help you in any way.

Fred and Anna went to Phila yesterday and had a nice time, Aunt L – gave Anna a pocket book & Hattie Day gave her a little sewing box, with thread, needles, silk, &c.  She wore her sailor suit and looks lovely in it indeed.

I wonder if you are having such a beautiful day.  The sun is shining so brightly in the back window and falls athwart the tree oh it looks beautiful.  I think it is the first real clear day we have had for a week.  The sky is cloudless just a perfect azure.

No I did not think you were neglecting me for I thought there might be many things to keep you busy only I get so anxious fearing you might be ill.  Don’t rob yourself of your rest for that is most essential to your keeping well & strong.

How I wish I could draw now you would have a sketch of the tree, but the sunshine on it you can imagine.

By the way – tell me how a sunrise and sunset looks on the ocean it must be something magnificent or sublime indeed.

Fred brings his calendars up tonight, he is only going to get eighty, for the others papers have all had theirs out and I am afraid it will spoil his patronage and beside he has a poor route.  He is going to apply for an uptown Patriot route, there are some being divided.  He could have gotten a Phila. route but it was more than two hundred papers and I thought he ought not to take it as that was too many.

Oh I must tell you the Montevideo ads you sent us are very interesting and you can imagine us studying the little map and wondering which streets you walked on.  Enclosed find a bit I thought would interest you.

I know you will be thinking today of all the things you did a year ago – Well let us take a fresh start to do our duty and the right and the New Year will have good for us I am sure. –

The Sun has just dropped down and left a few golden clouds with a dark edge and the sky is all aglow with a faint rosy light.  I had to move from the desk to the window to get more light. 

May the New Year be kind to you and us.  Your father and I will have lived together twenty five years Feb. 7, 1908.  Only grow as good a man and we shall be thankful.  God bless and keep you safe is the daily prayer of you mother.

Enclosed find one of the cards Mr. Hart is sending out.  I know you will be interested & you can see about the services. 

Kisses between every line

Good night dear boy

8:30

Mother

Letter to Henry from friends Ross and Chester McAlicher February 3, 1908

Cover:

H. S. McKibbin

U. S. Tennessee,

On care of Post Master,

San Francisco,

Cal.

Postmarked 10:30 PM, Feb 3 1908, Harrisburg, PA

Dear Friend,

I ges you think I have droped through.  But I thought I wood drope you a few lines to let you no that we are all kicking the same as ever.  I ges you don’t get bosom with all the follows that are no the baat with you.  I wood like to be with you, to take the trip you have before you.  

I ges you are looking for one of my picthure but I am maken very poor time, for the work is very slack.  I wonte thank you for the post cards you sent me.  Som times I get the bluze so I don’t know wat to do.  Because there is not very much doing now.  We hant hade no good skateing yet, but this last few days we have had skateing.  

I ges I will close for this time  May God be with you till we meat again. 

Yours truile,

Ross McAlicher[1] .

Chester will say something.

Friend Hen,

Hbg. Is still the same old place.  You would not get look in it yet if you come.  The fellows around here is the same also the party next door (Edna).[2]

We received your postal from S. A.  Rio Jan.  Hen it done me good to read that postal, It just shows what the rest of the fellows are.  Hen don’t let your character get down that way.  Now what I mean is some fellows will want you to go in the city to have a good time get drink etc.  You know that a bad fellow all ways get the end of the stick.  Let the fellows know what kind of men’s Hbg. Can give for their country.  

Hen do you know Roy Mellingan on the boat he from here also.  Well Hen Pick here to go to church with us so I will have to close.  I am enjoying life.  Pick a good boy now, go to S School ever Sunday.  Will write more next time.

From Chester[3] 

P. S. Pick send his best regards to you, Hen.

---

 [1]Ross McAlicher lived just a few doors down from the Makibbins at 1920 N. 5^th St.  He would have been about 17 when he wrote this.  Chester is his brother.  Source: 1920 census

 [2]Edna Sporver, age 17, lived next door to the McAlichers at 1918 N. 5^th St.

 [3]Chester McAlicher lived just a few doors down from the Makibbins at 1920 N. 5^th St.  He would have been about 21 when he wrote this.  Chester is his brother.  Source: 1920 census

Letter to Henry from his father February 7, 1908

Cover:

Henry S. Makibbin

U. S. S. Tennessee

Care of Post Master,

San Francisco,

Cal.
Postmarked 11:30 PM, Feb 7 1908, Harrisburg, PA

Home Port,

Harrisburg 2-07-08

My Dear Son:

Just a few words before bed.  Your most welcome & long looked for letter came today & it was so welcome & dated Jan 28 – At Madalina Bay & mailed at San Diego Feb 2.  Makes it seem very recent.  Sorry it had to be gotten off in a hurry, was anxious to know of your Christmas & the things sent to you also about target practice, for I think it work you would like.  It makes my blood stir to think of those big guns & the work they can do when the right men are back of them.

Is it possible that young Ishler is away from home without the home folks knowing his whereabouts?  This must be the case & you take this means of letting them know his location.  Of course I will hunt them up, they will be glad to know where he is at.

We were married twenty five years today.  Your letter brightened up the day for us.  Grand Pop Sourbeer & Aunt Maime was here for supper.  The chicken was good, done in a crock.

At last we have & are having some real winter zero – snow – & high winds fortunately for us road men the snow each time was followed by a little rain & made heavy the wind could not kick it up.

Times are dull & work scarce.  Dr. C. B. Fager died last month so another one of my old friends are gone.  Your mother & I are looking forward to a jaunt across the country.  How we are going to make out I do not know, but as I do not believe the days of miracles are past we will have to go forward & have faith.  I wish I knew the day your boat would be in San Francisco.

I enjoyed the tone of your letter, about the money, I have noticed, when younger, if someone found me an “easy mark” & landed on me, I would say the thing you did.  I have said often & bear with me in repeating it is not the money, so much, as it is the habit of saving.  If you allow that to become part of your nature, you will stand a good chance of being an independent man.  God grant that you may.

I look at things like you will see them when you are in your fiftieth years.  You will then see why I am so interested in the things that are to cut such a large figure in your life.

Good night.