William Morris Maier (1909-1982): correspondence: Anna S. and Paul D.I. Maier, 1926

Letters to W.M.M. recount daily activities and news within the family. Letters from A.S.M. provide a good sense of the domestic activities of the Maier family, both within the nuclear family and more generally, while also showing the close relationship between W.M.M. and his parents while at boarding school. Letters from P.D.I.M. show a distinct concern about the family health, fiscal matters and W.M.M.’s education and general well being. P.D.I.M. often offers suggestion, but is not overbearing, ultimately leaving W.M.M. to make decisions. Letters also show some of W.M.M.’s interests and activities including soccer, theater, and dance lessons.

Some highlights include:

Westtown, PA. 1926 11/17 [“Mother and I have been thinking about thy undertaking the editorship of the class book and we hope thee will not do it if thee feels it is going to be a great burden and task to thee. As thee knows the Brown and White is taking up very much time and thee has the College Board examinations to think about. We do not want thee to work so hard so that thy health will be undermined. Therefore before accepting the editorship do give the whole matter thy serious thought and consideration.”]

Westtown, PA. 1926 12/9 [“I am certainly pleased thee has worked up to the second soccer team, and it is fine for thee to be in a regular match game. Father and I have been talking over 7th day plans we will try and arrange it for thee to have a car for we are sure thee will be very careful, both on the drive to West Grove and coming back by thyself in the evening.”]