Ellard-Murphree-Pilgreen-Smith Family Papers Collection

The majority of the contents of the Ellard-Murphree-Pilgreen-Smith Collection (referred to as the “Smith Family Papers”) includes letters and diaries among family members and friends, with most letters from members of the Smith Family--Pauline and Sam H, and their children, Bernice, Christine, Martha, and Sam E (or “Sonny Boy.”). The geographic center of the collection is Pittsboro (or Calhoun County) Mississippi, where the family maintained their home since 1914, and where Pauline wrote most of her letters. Several letters from Jackson, MS are from Sam H. Smith, who was a state senator between 1932 and 1936. Letters to and from Columbus, MS are from Bernice, Christine, and Martha, who each attended the Mississippi State College for Women between approximately 1931 and 1938. As Pauline and Sam H. grow older and continue to write from Mississippi, the children move around the country, and with a few military appointments, around the world. The letters reflect this.

Language Note: We recognize that items in this collection use outdated and/or racist language. Unless otherwise noted, this is the language used by the record creator(s) and not imposed by the Beulah Culbertson Archives and Special Collections. Visit our website to read our harmful language policy.

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Letter from Christine Faust to Pauline Smith; July 8, 1947

Edith Christine Faust

Christine describes how she celebrated the Independence day holiday in Panama. She describes many facets of life in Panama, including the mixed races among night life crowds, the Panamanian Lottery, and upcoming tourist plans. She mentions enclosing photos.
Letter from Christine Faust to Pauline Smith; June 10, 1947

Edith Christine Faust

Christine tells her mother about her journey to meet Woody in the Canal Zone. She describes her new home, the furniture, and a maid they've hired to help keep house. She talks about the local people and places in her stops along the way.
Letter from Christine Faust to Pauline Smith; October 18, 1947

Edith Christine Faust

Christine tells her mother about Navy Day plans in Panama. She talks about supplies available in Panama, she sees the base doctor for an illness, and she continues learning Spanish. She updates and asks about family members and friends.
Letter from Christine Faust to Pauline Smith; October 27, 1947

Edith Christine Faust

Christine tells her mother about excitement about getting a dog, and plans for Christmas events and gifts.
Letter from Christine Faust to Pauline Smith; October 3, 1947

Edith Christine Faust

Christine tells her mother that she feels cut off without radio and newspapers. She has been watching Woody play basketball with his squadron team, and she discusses her social obligations as a navy wife.
Letter from Christine Faust to Pauline Smith; September 12, 1947

Edith Christine Faust

Christine updates her mother on her life in the Canal Zone, including Woody's new position. She discusses recent purchases and their daily activities. She asks after Victor's health.
Letter from Christine Faust to Pauline Smith; September 20, 1947

Edith Christine Faust

Christine shares her feelings about her uncle Victor's death to Pauline. She also shares her feelings about having to attend social gatherings hosted by other Navy families.
Letter from Christine Faust to Woody Faust, April 11, 1947

Edith Christine Faust

Christine updates Woody about her immunizations, tells stories about funerals in Calhoun County, and tells him about her day.
Letter from Christine Faust to Woody Faust, April 11, 1947

Edith Christine Faust

Christine remarks on travel options Woody has sent her, updates him on her shots, and tells him how much she misses him.
Letter from Christine Faust to Woody Faust, April 1, 1947

Edith Christine Faust

Christine expresses regret that she can't visit him in Norfolk.