Letters to Home, Part 1

Here is a transcription of a letter postmarked September 19, 1916 from Brendan & Olivia's great grandmother Ellen Lake to her parents in Merrill, Iowa. Ellen was 17 at the time and a train ride away from home at Morningside College in Sioux City.


Morningside S.C.
Sept, 18 - 1916

Dear folks-

Well, I am able to say. I have been homesick. Say, tis no joke. I was all in, all over. I have not recovered entirely as yet. But I have been feeling fine today. Got a new vision, if it only stays Sat evening after returning from the Freshie party. I could not go to sleep or anything. I got up around twelve ate a piece of candy I had in store. That helped a little. I rolled around in bed all over. If I could have got home easily I never would have returned. Only I expended so much for tuition and could not get it back.

Say do you know if this college life or builder of character is going to cost like fury. One gets lots of enjoyment but Oh my the trials, example of being homesick thats too much. Sun eve I had to sob a little before I went to sleep. I felt sick to my stomach. I was to ??? and church Sun morning. Walked to Graceland Cemetary in the afternoon. Some walk I can tell you. I took 2 pictures. My kodak left some dirty marks on my cream dress. We are invited to an Epworth League party Tue evening. I don't know yet if I shall go or not.

Say that five bucks you gave me Elva is almost gone. I haven't enough I don't think to get only two books. Then I have my gym shoes to get next. Well I am here now. No way of escape.

Say I don't know how I am going to be able to get my washing done unless you wash Mother, Sat eve while I do your milking. I will be home on the first afternoon train if possible. I have recitations until 11:30. I can't catch the noon train. Will let you know if it is possible. Maybe I can get excused from gym work. I am going to try.

Say what am I going to get a new suit and hat or what? I would like very much to have a new hat for next week. All the girls have theirs or most all. Let me know your plans.

Sometimes I wish I had never seen college and again I am so glad I have. But one has to meet their trials some time. Say I saw Cassidy the other day Sat P.M. she leaves tomorrow. She was all togged in her finery a new suit and hat.

Say something has affected my writing. I can't write like I used to. Not writing but what I write.

If you talk to Ellen or any of the kids tell them to write all the news. I would like to hear from any of the C.K.Cs no matter what sex. I will consider it as news from home. Tell them to have a meeting or party and write about it.

After supper tonight we played a game. I can't think of the name now. I got real warm and have a slight cold now. The boys went snipe hunting. Part of them can't talk only whisper. Took one Freshie. They are going to take us girls for an outing so they say. We sure have fine times at the inn. It is half past nine I am getting tired and want to read a little and study a little yet.

How is all at home? Ducky and all the rest of the inhabitants of the Lake & adjoining Zoo. I hope fine. Wish I could be with you talking to you all when you get this. but I am getting along pretty good. Don't feel bad tonight. I got the package. Thanks.

I don't think I shall move. Miss Dimmett says I better not unless Mrs Parry says so. I think I can get along all right here. Beatrice Carver is a fine girl. We go to meals and entertainments together. Get along fine.

I rather like to be alone in many ways. Its all freedom. Will stay that way unless she charges double. Then will be good bye.

Are you going to the fair? I would like to but it is impossible.

Plan a way to get my washing done.

Had Physical exam today. Weigh 132 1/2 lbs with just a sheet on.

Pencil is getting dull.

It's 25 to 10.

Write.

With love from Ellen

Busy most of the time
Just 3731 Orleans Ave
Morningside Sioux City, Ia.