Autograph / Handwritten Letter with Envelope
Era: 1920s (Vintage / Antique)
Subject: Family Correspondence, Theater Performance, College Life, Freemasonry
Location: Middletown, Pennsylvania (191 N. Union St.)
Page Count: 4 Written Pages (2 double-sided sheets/flaps + Original Envelope)
Condition: Pre-owned, aged paper with standard folding creases and ink fading/overwriting; legible.
Description
Up for sale is a charming, multi-page vintage handwritten family letter with its original cover/envelope addressed to 191 N. Union St., Middletown, PA.
Written by parents ("Father & Mother") to their child, this letter captures everyday 1920s life, local amateur theater, college studies, and fraternal organization activities.
Key Content & Transcription Highlights:
D.A.R. Play & Performance: Mentions a Daughters of the American Revolution (D.A.R.) play titled "Better Times" where a family member ("Mary") performs in the "Cabaret Troupe" appearing three times, including an act in evening dress.
Fashion & Daily Life: Details about Mary's school outfit, including a plaid pleated skirt and collar/cuffs made for her.
Penn State & College Travel: Mentions "Forney" traveling back on the mid-night train, studying for examinations, and getting a pass from Philadelphia to State College (Penn State). Includes discussion of driving to Penn State, Chambersburg, and Philadelphia.
Masonic Lodge Connection: Notes that Forney came back from the Masonic Hall after receiving his 2nd Degree Mason rank, presented by "Papa as Worshipful Master."