Gold Medal Cookbook

There's no expiration date on this coupon, but since it's from the turn of the last century I don't suppose you could count on getting a cookbook. You could try. Don't forget to send ten cents in cash or stamps!

In 1878, the Washburn 'A' Mill was the site of a famous explosion caused by the ignition of flour dust in the air. The explosion flattened the mill and surrounding area and killed 18 people. The incident led to reforms in the milling industry.

Washburn-Crosby Millers, the makers of Gold Medal Flour eventually merged with other smaller mills to become General Mills.

How We Do Things at Baudette

This is how they grow corn in Baudette, Minnesota. Don't believe me? Go there and see for yourself. These exaggeration are always in jest, but in this case, 1912 was a year of record crops in the region.

Here's the back of the card, sent to Mr. John Larson in Twin Valley, Minnesota in 1912.

The message reads:

Dear John,

This is the way the people of Baudette raise corn. How would you like to be here.

from Jacob.

Never mind the giant corn though. Did you know that Baudette is considered the Walleye capital of the world? It is also the home of Willie the Walleye, a giant fish statue on display in  Mill Park. Willie could eat that giant corn in one bite. You can visit Baudette in June and celebrate Willie's Birthday at the official Willie Walleye Day. I love Walleye!

Greetings from the Mayo Clinic - #2

Here's the second postcard from Estace, a patient at the famous Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota in 1945.  He seems to have had a sense of humor and a perhaps a flair for drama.

The message reads:

Dear Norma -

I'm writing this on the bed pan. Was operated on last Fri and nearly didn't come out of it. Wanted to write you before but was to sick. Hope I'll be a new person now. I was x rayed from head to foot. I'm at St. Mary's Hospital. They treat me fine but I'll be glad to leave. I should of sent you a (?) in the letter I sent you a few days ago but intended to be back in Detroit and not here. So sorry about all your troubles. You sure have your share lately. Hope I can write more interesting letter soon.

ByBy Love Estace

Greetings from the Mayo Clinic - #1

This is the first of two cards that Estace sent to Norma McCarthy from his eventful visit to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.

The card seems to have gotten wet. I didn't worry about that until I read the next card, which I will post tomorrow. The message on this one reads:

Dear Norma -

I'm still among the living altho they thought I was a goner for awhile! Was out from 1:45 AM or so until after midnight. The doctor sent my sister home but she knew I was bad and could not sleep. I came too with a Dr.  + 2 nurses over me. Had a special nurse for day but I snapped out of it soon.  You know I always had a good come back even if I did look like a living corpse. Well I hope as soon as I get better will be able to see you so I'm planning on coming out before I take off for sunshine. Dr. orders. I'll write you more later. By By and hope this finds you all well. Love Estace

will be at 5530 Horger St. Dearborn, Mich.