Close this window to return to the documents menu.
Close This Window Print This Page
Right-click the image for more save and print options.
Document: Alice Williamson McAdams letter to her daughter, Mary McAdams Payne. (1918)
The images of the actual letter are on the following two pages.
 
This letter was written in November, 1918, by Alice Williamson McAdams to her daughter, Mary McAdams Payne, in Flynn, Texas. Mary was pregnant and on February 13, 1919, delivered and lost the baby. This was the third time she lost a baby and her mother had been concerned. Alice contracted influenza and died on December 18, 1918.

Saturday, November 16

Dear Mary,

I intended to write you yesterday but neglected it. It just rained here yesterday and night before last too. We intended to send for Era yesterday but it rained so we couldn't. I am getting along alright but she keeps thinking it would be better for her to come home and stay awhile. I know it will set her back in her studies but I guess we will send for her as soon as the roads dry off. Have you taken the flue yet.

Pearl is still here don't know how long she will stay but am going to keep her a good while if she will stay. I don't have but very little fever but I am mighty slow gaining my strength but don't be uneasy for we will keep writing you and when you feel strong enough I want you to come.

Mama
(Alice Williamson McAdams)

1. The Pearl mentioned was Pearl Wheeler McAdams, wife of Carl Luther McAdams, Sr. She brought her children with her from her home on the Round Prairie road to stay with Alice and Hiram in Bedias so she could help Alice during her illness.

2. This letter was written during the height of the influenza epidemic of 1918. Alice died as a result of the flu only one month after this letter was written. This is very possibly Alice's last letter to one of her children.