In the pictures below, we see the postmaster and Uncle Matt and Aunt Mollie, parents of young Matt. Apparently, you are already supposed to know who young Matt is, because no explanation is provided. It turns out that this all refers to a book called The Shepherd of the Hills, written in 1907 by Harold Bell Wright. Years later the book was made into a movie starring John Wayne. The story is loosely based on the residents of the area, presumably including Uncle Matt and Aunt Mollie. You can find out more about the book here. Re-enactments of the story have been produced in Branson since 1960.
Here's another photo of Ike, the postmaster.
And here's the back of the folder.
Wow, people just don't look that that anymore!
ReplyDeleteI have this same set, found years ago. I always wondered who the "Shepherd of the Hills" people were. Thanks for finding out!
ReplyDeleteHow cool! Branson is only about 30 miles from where I live.
ReplyDeleteFantastic early folder! Uncle Ike looks like a real character.
ReplyDeleteAwesome! I also like that it is sent to Stillwater, Oklahoma, which is in my home state!
ReplyDeleteUncle Ike looks well past retirement age. Nice to know there’s a story behind it all.
ReplyDeleteChristine, my Grandma J. (from Arkansas) had that book (she didn't have many) and I read it when I was young. I didn't know that it was a true story! It was probably an original copy.
ReplyDeleteI love your postcards and this entire post. Thanks for sharing it with us.
Kathy M.
"Shepherd of The Hills" was required reading in my Missouri Ozarks family, along with the entire "Foxfire" series. Still a good read. Thanks for taking the time to post all of these. You've made a great little historical corner of the internet here. Best wishe to you.
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