Letters from Luther Murkins and Beatrice Snow Winsor to Lu and Wickie September 1960 to end of 1960

September 18th 1960

Dearest Wickie, Lu and the children: 

I intended to write you immediately after we sent the R.R. on it's way. Every day piled up new responsibilities and here I am. Muriel and Mary were here all last week and just left yesterday. They had a wonderful time - Mip took Mary everywhere she wanted to go - the tabernacle broadcast Temple Square tour - D.U.P. museum - Rel. Society Building. We drove by the Governor's new residence and found the housekeeper at home. She has a son who married Martha Peterson (E.G's Daughter). She was very friendly and took us all through the house - an ideal governor's home and state home. Nobody knows if Clyde can beat the Dixie "Barlocker" come the November election. Bill Barlocker is originally from Enterprise - smart and with a genius for doing things with other people's money - a phoney if there ever was one. He rolled up 11,000 Democratic votes to Clyde's 7000. (Rep)

Some months ago I answered a question correctly over the telephone and received some free magazines, two of which I sent to you -the Coronet and the Post. Have you been getting them? That is how forgetful I am. Hope you have the magazines and are enjoying them. 

We were so pleased with the R.R. you gave us this time - especially the answer on church welfare you gave Polly. we seldom answer these comments because it accomplishes nothing. But your comments were very helpful from another angle. Thanks for echoing our sentiments. 

I hope, Luther, you are not overdoing according to your own standards. I cannot understand how you cover so much in one day. Please be careful - try to conserve something for the emergency. we are very much concerned about both of you parents. If you are doing the Lord's work he will take care of you. There is satisfaction in that. You are all getting some valuable experience that would never come from a ward or stake in this part of the vineyard. 

Helen Sorensen asks about you frequently, Wickie. I think they are planning to move soon. Stan's work is apparently spreading out of the state. We have not seen Lynne all summer. Loretta and Sarah have called a number of times - I think when their mother was not at home. We are very busy here, fortunately - when we are not at work on regular routine there are neighbors who need friends. One of these is in my district dying of cancer (she has five children under fifteen.) There are always others whose burden is heavier than our own. 

I should tell you my "Matterhorn" painting took an "honorable mention" in the county fair. Nearly everything else went to modern art. Muriel and Mary bought the "Matterhorn" and took it with them. They plan to buy a home soon. Mary is a wonderful girl and quite alone in the world. I feel confident she will come into the church some day. She is so quiet it is hard to know what she is thinking about. 

We are furnishing our apartment now for rental. The young Maddox family -  parents and baby - left us after four months - they wanted to be close to Westminster College where he is working for the ministry (Methodist). Needed another bedroom because some of their family were always dropping in. 

We need to keep up this apartment or else sell ours entirely. We have had no luck with our tomatoes and corn this year and have dug up quite a piece of the back lawn to get rid of the Bermuda grass. I doubt if it will help. 

It is stake conference this morning and time to go. Will finish later. 

We had LeGrand Richards for a General Authority today - his wife was there too. Had a short chat. The theme was "everybody a missionary". Only 26 percent of the stake present - we were below church average. 

It has been quite warm today - still wearing summer clothing. Looks like a wonderful fall coming. Wes & Maxine & their two children were here for Lunch and a couple of hours visit this summer. They would surely appreciate a letter from you. When I told them about your routine I'm sure they agreed they had as much time as you do. 

Spencer & family came in for an evening - we enjoyed them very much. They were here for only a day or two. Ted & LaDean & the boys came for over night on their way from Blanding to Portland. Whey are wonderful guests. Max & Cornella & their children visited us earlier in the summer. They have three lovely well behaved children and they were intrigued with their Uncle Lu. So, as far as the Hills are concerned we had nearly all the family- 5 out of 8. 

Aunt Theresa is not too well physically - we can't expect too much. She is troubled with water retention but it takes less effort for her to get around. Dad is slowing up some but he is always interested in anything pertaining to his work. As to interest around here it becomes quite boring I'm afraid. It looks like Our Gen. Home Teaching is at an end. The stake has asked me to direct the stake sealings at the temple instead. If you ask me the ward will want some help once and awhile. Our problem was becoming serious visiting homes. They just do not want to sit down to work - excuses all the way. I'm quite willing to give it up until we can get our Bishopric to support us and open doors. Dad was quite discouraged. Of course he hasn't been able to take hold yet and went along as a support and Priesthood leader. 

I do hope all is well with you - we appreciate the extra letters. I know how hard it is to write often. 

A big hug and kiss for each and every one of you

Lovingly, Mom

October 2 1960

Dearest Wickie and Lu and the children,

We received your letter, Wickie written at the dentist's office. You surely need extra fortitude to meet such a routine all at once. We truly sympathize with your predicament. I know Lu has had no end of trouble with his teeth but why the boys? It seems unusual for children at that age. Do you think there has been a vitamin shortage? I do hope by now you are all more comfortable. I cannot think of anything I dread more than the dentist's chair.  

I apologize for not writing about the lovely birthday gift you sent to me. The basket is lovely - so perfectly made and will be a "beauty" forever. My thanks to all of you for your thoughtfulness. The cosmetics of course were most welcome. You must sort of trim down these gifts - much can be saved that way. Remember, we feel just as much remembered with a card. We have not forgotten the financial pinching of our younger days and we want you to know we are here to help if you need it. These monthly installments do something to your disposition. 

Our Maddox couple and their baby moved out a month ago leaving us again with the tenant problem. We contacted the University housing and they suggested we furnish the place, thereby getting more stable people. There was a "quitting business" sale down town next to the police station corner where it is to be all torn down for new buildings. They were selling nearly everything 50 percent. So we got everything we needed - carpet, a single bed, pillows, blankets, two desks, a plastic couch and chair, etc. Dad was so enthusiastic he bought himself a desk too. Then of course there was a chest of drawers. We have a fine young couple from Florida (Tucker by name). He is planning two years at the University at the Law School. She will work. They are quite congenial, especially Don. She is harder to know. The Harrop family who rented here two years ago came to see us the other night to show us their baby daughter. Most of them come back to see us. We had a visit from Dora Kundig whom we sponsored from Switzerland. She brought her husband and two children.  They are lovely people and they love our country - live in Spokane, Washington. 

Last Friday Mr. Lawrence and his wife brought Mr. Farsaneh from Iran to see us. He was top engineer and worked with Dad when he was over there. A very interesting person: good looking and Dad was so tickled to see him. They visited the whole evening and he gave Dad the answers to many questions that he has had bottled up in his mind. Farsaneh stayed for supper - seemed to enjoy everything. He is traveling all over the country as these visitors do.

We have word from Pat they will be home in November sometime after the fifteenth. Headquarters will be in Illinois about three hours from Chicago. Marsh will be teaching at the Base. They do not favor Illinois but who knows - they may learn to like it. Surely they are used to changes of all kinds. Apparently they will remain in the service. 

I think Dad will add a note before tomorrow. We are released from the Home Teaching committee now since they need a supervisor for Stake Sealings - that's me. We have just about cleaned out the possible candidates who want to do genealogical work or their own family records for that matter and Dad is a little tired of the continual struggle to open doors and find a welcome inside. He is anxious to do his writing anyway. 

We are having glorious weather right now - warm and pleasant. who can tell what will happen in another week? It is time to say "goodnight". We have a crowded week ahead. I have to meet my predecessor of the sealing work and the stake chairman to get my instructions etc. - an art lesson - class in genealogy - Thursday night a 60 yr. anniversary open house for the Junius Romneys as well as Eyring Turley's daughters' wedding reception. Next day is gen. conference and at 5:30 P.M. an Eyring reunion here in our ward where I carry much of the responsibility, familiarizing the officers and reporters with genealogical matters and followed with an adult meeting. light refreshments --- After that I can relax for a short time. The is just a sample. We feel your presence in our home each day and our prayers for your safety and welfare are our daily concern. Please take care of each other. 

Loving you always, Mom

Oct 3  1960

Dearest Luther and Wickie

and family-

Your letter from the dental office reached us and made us feel how you felt, in a measure. I will remember how it was; but for a long time I haven't had many teeth to worry about, and they do not ache anymore. 

But you are in the midst of it and will be for awhile yet. This big bill with which you are confronted will be a constant worry. Then there will be more and more. 

The enclosed check will help a little. It is for you and need not be paid back. Also there can be more when we get it. We have a little put by and it will serve you better now than later. What we have has been invested and it will take awhile to sell the stock. We have a little in McFarland Meat Co. that put on an expansion program recently and a little in Bonneville Insurance Company.

I endorse what mom has written. Please consult your doctor or dentist and determine if you are deficient in something. 

Love to all of you,

Dad

November 8th

Dearest Son. This is election day. Until late last night I was busy calling on and calling by phone various voters in this area who were "on the fence" and did not know according to the records, how they would vote. I did not ask for commitments for this is America, where people can still still say and do, as they wish so long as they remain within the law. You, thank heaven, have always been one who adheres strictly to law and right, and you will be voting the same today. 

Anyway, we have been steeped in politics for sure, this year because locally, we did (do) not want Bill Barlocker in the governor's chair, and more particularly because we are afraid of Kennedy, and are very much against the free spending and the tendency of the Democrats to place everything in the hands of the National government.  The young generation have been reared with that feeling that all they have to do is 'hold out a hand' and the government will fill it. I have seen so much waste that I am "sick all over" because of it. 

If the army for example wants one item ten are ordered then there is a 'so called' war surplus that keeps millions of War Surplus Dispensaries going, where goods are received for a very low cost, practically nothing, and are sold at very little below retail prices. Then Billions are poured into under privileged countries, to stem the March of Communism, so they think. All the while legitimate organizations such as your own are held down to "bed rock".

It does not make sense to me. Before, long before, this reaches you we shall know. All I can add is, If Kennedy should be elected, it would be fine if the unfortunate results could be "shouldered" by the American People who elect & (support) him. But we all should (shall) have to suffer with them. 

Maybe this is all tiresome to you but it tells you how Mom and I feel. Mom is just as keenly interested as I am. 

In three days you will have another birthday. Each year since you have been away, I have written you. This morning I am at home alone. Mom is at Relief Society meeting which she never misses unless she is away. I was pleased, during my recent canvas, to visit with a neighbor lady, her husband, and her only son, for nearly two hours. She is a great admirer of your Mom. She said one thing in particular that I remember. She said that Mom speaks, at Relief Society in her usual quiet, low tones, and that all pay close attention to what she says, Even a pin could be heard when it drops. This was only one of many things. She has known Mom for a long time. 

Now, Son, we are very proud of you and of Wickie, and of your lovely family. Much has happened since the time when you were only 1 1/2 years old and went with me to the east side of Bear Lake, and to Woodruff, and we were out for two days. That is almost a record--

Ted, Anna Lee's brother is here He is married. A girl he met at B.Y.U. where he was doing work, (a degree in Economics, accounting and business administration). She is from Mesquite, Nevada, She is there now with her folks while Ted gets going. 

Cornella, Ted's mother, is at Portland. She, her 2nd husband Max and their three were here for one night. She has Aunt Thressa with her, but Aunt Thressa does not get well. She is up and down. (i.e. drawing of  up and down line) 

Son, I've said to you before, that you have brought real joy to me and Now I am always anxious for your welfare and that of your lovely family. 

May Our Father bless you all. 

Lovingly, Dad

8 November, 1960

Happy Birthday to you Luther! I would prefer loving you in person of course but I'm sure you know we are thinking of you this time of year especially. Have fun and take a bit of time off with your loved ones. 

My memory goes back to the Nov 11th when you first saw the light of day. How thrilled we were--our first son. The telegram traveled to your Daddy or was it a telephone message? That I can't remember, but I do remember our celebration. Ada Ray Wall took care of us & she was such a happy person-Grandma Snow was a big part of it. How we enjoyed watching your development! I could go on and on---

This is a fateful day and we are good for nothing until results come in. Kennedy has captured all the imagination in the country. Magnetism like F.D.R. but for sound principles he is sadly lacking. We have prayed very hard for 'right' to prevail and know of course that if it fits the needs of today the right man will be chosen. Dad has 'politicked' faithfully for 3 wks & accomplished a lot of good I feel. I will write again to tell you what little news we have. We love your letters & are grateful. 

Loving you always & may God bless you & the precious family-Mom