LETTERS

Estelle Purdum's maternal grandfather was Thomas Jones, the brother of Eliza Jones Fulton (Gen.4); her parents' names were Henry and Mary Jones Jones [that is not an error...both of her parents were Jones]. Unfortunately, neither she nor Uncle Charlie knew the names of Eliza Jones Fulton's parents.

In the following exchange, we have a copy of only one of Charles Jacobs' typewritten letters to Estelle Jones Purdum, so are unable to completely follow the discussion.

Fairfield, Iowa, September 19, 1919

Mrs. John W. Purdum
Chillicothe, Ohio

Dear Mrs. Purdum:

Your letter interested me very much altho it shows our relationship is not what I thought it. However, I'm just as pleased to know it's on your Mother's side as on your Father's. Since your maternal grandfather and my paternal grandmother were brother and sister, it follows that their parents were our common Great-grandparents. It is their names and history I am anxious to determine. Can it be done?

I recall two brothers who visited my Grandmother Fulton. One was Nelson Jones, who lived in Streator, Illinois. He was a blacksmith. The other, if I am not mistaken, was Thomas Jones. As I mentally see him now after the lapse of so many years, he was tall, of large frame but not corpulant, his face clean-shaven, and his head crowned with a mass of snow-white hair. I remember, too, hearing my Grandfather Fulton remark, "He could make a better speech than Wilson." Mr. Wilson, by the way, was a citizen of Fairfield and one of the most prominent men of town. Does this describe your Grandfather?

I do not have photographs of my Grandparents; indeed, I did not know there were any in existence. Assuredly, I would like to have them and, if you will send them to me, I shall be deeply grateful.

My Father died in August 1907. He was your cousin Joe. There is no doubt but that I was the older of the chidren you saw at his home. Your mention of Mr. Jordan, the Indian trader, also links past and present in my memory. I knew him well. Just the other day, my wife and I motored down to Selma on the Des Moines river to see his Granddaughter, Miss Lora Hinkle.

My Father's middle name was Warren. I have met relatives bearing the name, but do not know where they are living now. I have an impression the connection was thru the Jonses. Can you clear this up for me?

How did I happen to write to you? It is really not mysterious. I often heard your name in family conversations. In the winter of 1884 - 1885, I was in Chillicothe for a time. I was at your Father's and met him and Virginia. That I did not meet you was probably owing to the fact that I was suddenly summoned home on account of my Grandfathers serious and last illness. He died shortly after my return. So, when Marion Dunlap was visiting us a few weeks ago, having my family-tree in mind, I asked him for your address. That is how I learned your street.

I suppose I am no longer young, yet I do not feel old. My children, of whom I have three, one boy and two girls, are still growing up. Charles leaves the last of the month to take up his studies again at M.I.T., "Boston Tech." and Catherine leaves Monday for Kansas City where she studies a year before going to Wellesley. Susan is in High School.

I am glad the years have rested so lightly on you. May the dew of youth continue to refresh your spirit.

Sincerely your cousin once removed,
Charles J. Fulton