Day 1299

My daily musings and writing about my Goldens have led to some very real treasured moments. One of them happened just the other day when a long-time neighbor sent me a true treasure. Knowing about, and being related to our resident ghost (Colonel Giddings), Mary shared pictures of The Colonel in later life along with her great grandmother’s diary enteries surrounding his death.

Having known stories of The Colonel’s early life and military career, it was a true gift to get insights into his later life. The diary entries illuminated the heartfelt reactions to his death and included names of relatives who also lived in The Big White House before my grandparents owned it. I felt like I had touched a piece of history!

The Colonel died from a burst appendix… probably at the hospitsl on Ferry Street. His brother wept. His wife, Flora, was strong and stoic. His in-laws came to support their daughter. Our ghost became so very human.

I appreciate my friend, Mary, who shared the photos and diary enteries. Priceless artifacts that humanize the man who still seems to “live” with us from time-to-time. Thank you for making him even more real!