Charles E. Burchfield (1893-1967)

Sept. 27—30—Trip to Salem & Cleveland.Saturday—start a little after nine.; A partly cloudy day, the clouds increasing as the day advanced. ; Tired from our long season of rushing work we were not quite attune to the trip; and too, our minds were not quite free, because Hank this day was taking a long cross country flight (to Lima, Ohio)—we knew Martha would worry all day.; Lunched at Conneautt [sic], O, at a diner.; Arrive at Salem at 3:00—only Dick at home (many had already gone to Columbiana to get Emma). D. showed us his garden. We decided, while waiting to go see many D.; It is always a pleasure to be in Aunt Em’s house again, full as it is of hundreds of family memories—when I no longer can sit in that quiet sitting room, and hear the old Grandfather’s clock slow measured ticking, I will know indeed that the last physical contact with the past is gone forever, and I must then call on my memory.; It is remarkable how Mary keeps up (She is 81). Frail and stooped, she nevertheless keeps her humor, and a keen interest in world affairs. She asked us if we thought she ought to leave her home and go to some old folks home. We told her emphatically, No.; Back to Mary’s & then to Olives—; A gay and hearty affair. A Buffet supper with lots of tempting dishes. (In all about 30 people—twelve grandchildren, and brothers & sisters: Vie & Clara, Walter & Helen, Mary & Dick, B & I, Rev. & Mrs. Mennen, Lois K Carpenter, Lois Elser & Don, Ruth Graver & her husband, Kathryn & Freddie Klaus.). A purse made up for Emma, $50 to buy a radio, or a chair.; The din made by the children, and by the “grown-ups” was so terrific that tired as we were it seemed impossible to take.