Dante John Baratelli was born 24 September 1891 at Jersey City New Jersey, son of Angelo & Elisa (Airoli) Baratelli. His parents were both born in Italy and he had siblings Norma D., Charles C. (the sculptor) and John C. From 1910-1912 he was living in Barre, Vermont working as a clerk. He moved to Concord New Hampshire and while living there he joined the U.S. Army. Continue reading
Stereoscopic Views of Newport, Sullivan County, New Hampshire. John Bachelder photographer. Robert N. Dennis Collection, New York Public Library Digital Collections.
In 1917 the town of Newport New Hampshire had around 4,000 permanent residents. It was also the county seat for Sullivan County where the County court house was located and business was conducted by the county commissioners.
When the World War was declared in 1917 the citizens were quick to support the war effort. They not only sent their youth to service, but they had active Red Cross participation and the town enthusiastically supported the War Bond sales. In July of 1918 the Newport Chapter and her auxiliaries shipped the following articles for Red Cross use: 15 helmets, 3 mufflers, 367 pairs of socks, 53 sweaters, 4 pair wristlets, 36 convalescent robes, 144 women’s and children’s garments. Continue reading
Before the World War the population of Mason, New Hampshire hovered just above 325 people. After the War the population would drop to below 300, and would not begin to recover until the 1950s. Mason sent its young men into battle including [partial list] James H. Beck, Harry Chute, Victor Duncan, George H. Hill, Wilhelmena Nykanen (nurse), Louis M. Smith, and Gardner Tucker. One of these young people would not return. Continue reading
1838 Painting of Center Harbor by artist
William Henry Bartlett. Notice the cow and
farmer in the foreground. Is this Becky’s
father, or her beloved?
A legend often has a basis in real history, and knowing the authentic story does not negate its charm. Such it is for this tale of the tiny ledge of rock and ragged growth that sits in Lake Winnipesaukee known as Becky’s Garden. The narrative is at least 133 years old (from 2018) based on the 1885 map showing the isle’s existence. According to Stephanie Knighton, one of the current owners of Becky’s Garden, this petite venue is considered to be “the ‘smallest charted island’ on Lake Winnipesaukee. Apparently what constitutes an ‘island’ is not just rocks but there must also be vegetation. Becky’s has both.” Continue reading
1938 photograph of Charles A. Manning,
Addie (Ryan) Manning, and in between
them, my mother Mary in graduation garb.
Fathers Day: June 17, 2018
In the past I’ve written about the paternal side of my family, and several times about my father who I adored. It is quite easy for me to write about people who I knew and loved.
But how do I write about someone who I didn’t know at all, and who my mother disliked? Yes, its true. The attitudes of our mothers greatly influence how we feel about people. Though I researched my maternal grandfather, Charles Aloysius Manning, I didn’t like him either, but only because my Mom didn’t. Continue reading
