A number of the letters are samples of "cross writing"
Physical Condition
Some of the letters are fragile, but generally the fonds is in good condition.
Custodial History
Ann Murdoch donated a copy of "My Dear Will" to the McKee Archives in February 2008. The formal donation of the Baker family letters occurred on September 27, 2008 at a reception in the Gathering Space at the John E. Robbins Library.
Scope and Content
Fonds consists of a collection of about 200 letters primarily written by William Baker (although letters written by other family members are also included), who left Liverpool and settled in Oak Lake, to his son William who remained in England. The letters offer insights on a wide range of subjects including the conditions of immigrants and the Riel "situation".
The fonds also contains a supplement to "My Dear Will: Reflections of Prairie Pioneer Life." This latter publication consists of transcribed copies of the letters in the Baker family fonds. The letters were originally transcribed by Ronald James Parsons and his wife Rita Olive Parsons (nee Blake) and published, along with some letters, photographs and other documents for family c. 1997. The booklet was updated in 2007 by Ronald and Rita's daughter, Ann Murdoch. The Supplement was prepared by Ann Murdock and her sister Dawn Powell.
Notes
Description by Christy Henry.
Finding Aid
My Dear Will booklet
Storage Location
2008 accessions. Booklets and family tree stored in Rare Books: RC 3399.B73Z495 2007 v.1 and v.2.
For custodial history see the collection level description of the Lawrence Stuckey collection.
Scope and Content
Image of an old frame house (2 chimneys), at Beulah, Manitoba [Mr. Stuckey consistently spelt it "Buelah"], taken along the CNR line, Rapid City substation.
Stuckey's notes: When I took this picture I was working on the bridge and building outfit - parked by Bawlf elevator.
Custodial History
For custodial history see the collection level description of the Lawrence Stuckey collection.
Scope and Content
Image of CN No. 229 Beulah mixed engine 1389 at McConnell, Manitoba [Mr. Stuckey consistently spelt it "Buelah"], taken along the CNR line, Rapid City substation.
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