What do you see--maybe an ashtray? Actually, this is an heirloom, and it comes with a story.
My late father-in-law, Edgar James Wood (1903-1986) was a cracker-jack piano player who was proud to be a long-time member of the Hermit Club in Cleveland. Whereas most members had to apply and hope they were accepted, he said (in an oral history interview) he was recruited to join when the former piano player retired.
This was during the the early 1930s, when Ed was dating his future wife (Marian McClure, 1909-1983). Some of the Hermit Club members were also involved in "The Troop," more formally known as the First Cleveland Cavalry, later Troop A, 107th Cavalry, of the Ohio National Guard.
So Ed joined, too--even though he had never, to that time, ever been on a horse. The Troop assumed its members had no riding experience and geared their training to beginners. Still, Ed and his girlfriend Marian went to a nearby riding academy now and then to get exercise and experience. Ed's Troop commitment lasted about three years, and by that time, Ed and Marian were married and had started a family.
Over the years, Ed remained interested in the Troop, and when it celebrated its 75th Anniversary in 1952, he purchased this commemorative ashtray, which was used only for loose coins.
From a family history perspective, this is an heirloom with a backstory about a man who was most at home in the city, not on a horse! Without the story, it would be just an ashtray.
Heirloom is the genealogy prompt for this week's #52Ancestors challenge by Amy Johnson Crow.
I love this! We recently acquired two glasses from the now-defunct restaurant where we had our wedding reception. They may not be heirlooms now, but in time... Also, I want to say I am so impressed with your commitment to post for the 52 Ancestors - you've kept it up for quite some time. Bravo!!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Deb! I don't post for every 52 Ancestors prompt but many, because I can document family history from so many different angles.
DeleteThe only thing better than an heirloom is one with a story! How I enjoyed this one!
ReplyDeleteLike you I’ve been following Amy’s prompts for some years. I have recorded lots of memories and stories but my son pushed me more toward heirlooms when he said “Mum, you have to write down what these things are, so that when we are getting rid of them we know what we are getting rid of!” Fortunately, my 9 year old grandson loves a story.
ReplyDelete