As September begins: Dot's been at the beach, at Riverview, and spending time with Miller, who has had crush on Dot, but having enlisted is now away in the service... Herb came home on leave from the Navy... Dot has heard more about Herb's girl back in Washington... Herb's friends have begun to discourage Dot about him, at Herb's request... Subsequently, Dot is now away with Dave for the Labor Day weekend, at Dave's sister's house in Indiana...
Sunday September 1 1946
“Got up at 10 to 6. The guys, too. Put on my slacks and then washed.
We ate some breakfast and then went down to the river. Got in a rowboat, and Bill push-poled it along. Bill got a net and dragged it on the bottom of the river for fish, then dumped them in the boat. It was cold, and it rained a little.
Got back to the house at 8:45 and ate some pork chops. Then Ruth had a big lunch packed, and we walked down near the river to a lovely spot near some man's cabin.
Ruth had beef and noodles in a roaster, and also sweet corn and coffee and chocolate pie.
Bill and Dave went fishing then, and I had a great time with the kids— they're really wonderful. I wrestled with them and had a lot of fun.
Later, Bill and Dave got back and we all had another cup of coffee and then went back to the house.
I put on my skirt, and we took a ride into town. Got some ice cream and rode out to Winamac Park. We tasted Artesian water. Got back to the house and played cards for a short while.
Then Dave and Bill took me for a walk along the railroad tracks, and over barbed wire fences thru fields. I got burrs all over my skirt and just about died laughing at Bill's silly, off-color remarks.
Got back home and went to bed shortly. Bill teased me a lot, and called me ‘Miss Polka Dots’.”
VAST SOVIET FORCE IN MANPOWER CITED IN SURVEY BY U.S.; Russia Will Have 32,000,000 in Fighting Pool: The Soviet Union is apparently aiming to develop military might equal to that of the United States on the basis of Generalissimo Stalin's belief that more conflicts will sweep the earth in the future.
U.S. AIM AGGRESSION, SOVIET PAPER INSISTS: Charges that the United States has aggressive intentions in world affairs, specifically against the Soviet Union were repeated today in Izvestia, the Government newspaper.
20 of 21 Nazis Claim Innocence As Nuremberg Trial Is Concluded : The Nuremberg war crimes trial was completed today when the twenty-one defendants made their final pleas. The verdict of the International Military Tribunal is expected Sept. 23.
‘SLINGSHOT’ HURLS PLANE UP QUICKLY; Device Gets Craft Aloft With a Run of a Few Hundred Feet: An electrically-driven “slingshot” that will catapult an airplane into the air after a run of only a few hundred feet has been developed for the Navy by the Westinghouse Electric Corporation.
Airlines Seek to Develop Tourist Trade To Puerto Rico and the Near-by Islands: The excursion fare announced recently by Pan American Airways —$150 for a round-trip to San Juan, Puerto Rico— is a move denounced by nonscheduled fliers as a “loss leader” aimed to drive them out of business.
Birthdays: Barry Gibb (born today), Edgar Rice Burroughs (71)
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Dave, and the Tippecanoe River; with his brother-in-law, Bill (at right).
Monday September 2 1946
“Got up at 9:00, and we drove to town for some food.
Came back and Dave and I went down to the river. He push-poled the boat and I sat. The river was simply beautiful. We tried to catch some fish but no luck.
Stopped the boat and got a drink near a little cabin. Layed on the grass and talked awhile. I learned how to push the boat, too. My foot slipped once and sank in the mud.
Ruth had toasted cheese sandwiches for supper. Then we sat in the kitchen playing poker. We cheated each other and had a gay time.
Turned in at 1:00, but the four of us giggled and couldn't sleep till 3.”
The Tippecanoe River
Today's news:
SURVEY SHOWS EXPLOITATION OF PACIFIC ISLANDS - Britain, N. Zealand Keep Gravy for Themselves: A 5,000 mile tour thru four mid-Atlantic dependencies has disclosed that in every one save American Samoa, there has been a selfish exploitation by the dominent power.
GEN, M'ARTHUR WARNS OF RED PERIL TO JAPAN - Fears Nation May be an Easy Prey: Gen. MacArthur said today the “dread uncertainty” of ideological confict between democracy and communism hangs over Japan, a country which can be “either a powerful bulwark for peace or a dangerous springboard for war.”
U. S. MUST STAY IN SOUTH KOREA, SAYS SHERIDAN - Tells Need of Stable Government: Acting Chairman Sheridan [D., Pa.] of the house military affairs committee today said the United States must occupy southern Korea until a stable government is formed.
SWISH! P-80 JET HITS 611 M. P. H. IN SPEED TRIALS - But Winner Fails to Top British-Held Record: Six army air forces pilots flying Lockheed P-80 air planes with jet-type engines today gave a crowd of 65,000 at the National Air races a look.
To the Shopper: It's Time to See Fall Fashions: With the beginning of September, the fall fashion collections go on parade. Once again the American shopper will do the shops and stores, to see the newest colors, fabrics, fabulous collections of furs, the changed silhouettes, and that much talked of new length in skirts.
Haynes, Sox Beat Indians, Feller, 4 to 1: “Who is this fellow Feller?” asks the White Sox's own smiling Joe Haynes. And a fair question, too, for yesterday Joe won his third 1946 decision over Rapid Robert, 4 to 1, his fourth over the Cleveland Indians, and his fifth in American league competition.
CUBS WHIP REDS TWICE: 6-2, 9-8 - Kush Gains 8th Victory and Schmitz 10th: Charley Grimm's Cubs dressed themselves up in fancy batting attire this afternoon and paraded to a twin triumph over the Reds before 15,936 patrons.
Bears Rout Giants, 19-0: The Bears came out of hibernation yesterday afternoon. They were drowsy at the start and moved only four yards with the opening kick-off, but after that they cuffed the New York Giants around Wrigley field with spasms of offensive power reminiscent of their pre-war days.
Birthday: Billy Preston (born today)
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Dave with his nephews Mickey and Red.
Tuesday September 3 1946
“Bill got up at 6:00 and so did Dave and I. Dave made some coffee and we sat in the kitchen in our pajamas, playing poker and gin rummy. We later dressed cause it was terribly cold.
Dave and I took a rowboat down the river to the owner. We got out and it was a beautiful, wooded area.
I carved my name on a tree and as I finished, he put his arm around my waist, kissed me, and said ‘What about mine?’. Then he cut his initials, too, and we walked among the trees and grass.
Then we sat down and he picked some wildflowers and made them into a corsage. He also put some in my hair. I felt like the girl in King's Row. He sent tingles up my spine.
Dave took my hand and we walked back towards the house. We picked some apples and peaches, too. Ate dinner, dressed, and played with the kids on the bed— really a lot of fun.
Mickey kissed me goodbye, and I felt like crying. They were the nicest people I've ever met.
Got our train at 2:15, home at 4:15. Dave asked me to go to the show.
I took a good bath. It felt funny being home. Then I got dressed.
Dave came at 8:30 and we went to the Southtown, balcony. We talked most of the time and goofed around.
Got out at 12 and stopped in Tasty's. Came back home and he kissed me good nite— four times. I like him so much...”
Comments:
The emphasis on the above words “so much” was Dot's.
In the 1942 movie King's Row (see trailer below), which Dot references above, turn of the century American life is seen through the eyes of children. The film would have played in neighborhood theaters during 1943, while Dot was 15 years old, and it must have stuck with her.
The trailer for King's Row
The trailer for Gilda
Today's news:
RIOTS FLARE ANEW IN BOMBAY; 70 DEAD; Stabbing and Arson Continue --Police and Fire Trucks Disperse: Rioting broke out anew in Bombay today, raising the two-day toll to seventy killed and more than 250 seriously wounded.
TRUMAN IN CAPITAL, WADES INTO WORK; THE PRESIDENT ENDS HIS VACATION: President Truman returned to the White House tonight after an eighteenday vacation cruise and started to work almost immediately on a pile of official business that either had accumulated in his absence.
GERMAN PRISONERS RELEASED BY RUSSIA; American Correspondents See Bedraggled Group Brought to Camp: A gray-green column of 5,000 German men and 61 German girls, prisoners of war of the Red Army, crawled around the crest of a hill above Germany's new eastern frontier on the River Oder this afternoon.
NIMITZ, ON ‘BIG MO,’ ASKS STRONG NAVY; Nation That Relaxes Defenses Invites Attack, He Says: On the deck of the battleship Missouri, where a year ago the Japanese formally surrendered to the Allies, Admiral Chester W. Nimitz called today for strong national defense.
SEEK MISS AMERICA TITLE; 48 Young Women to Compete This Week in Atlantic City: Forty-eight young women chosen to represent thirty-seven States and eleven key cities arrived here today to compete for the title of Miss America, 1946.
PIRATES TOP CUBS, THEN LOSE BY 7-3; Pittsburgh Wins Opener, 4-1 Behind Bahr's 5-Hitter
DODGERS SHIFT TO COAST; Santa Ana, Calif., Chosen as the 1947 Training Camp
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Kelly Library; Sis and Dot; Dot, Lill and Sis.
Wednesday September 4 1946
“Up at 11:30, did nothing. In the evening, Sis and I went to the library. We met Lill and took a walk down 63rd. Had a lemonade. Got home at 10:15.”
.
Today's news:
HARSH DECREES RULE LIVES OF RUSS WORKERS - Standard of Living ‘Pitiably Low’: Thirty million workers in soviet Russia, 43 per cent of them women, labor under harsh and restrictive government decrees in “pitiably low living standards,” according to the congressional report on the operations of communism just made public.
JEWS, CAGED IN PRISON SHIP, CRY HITLER! HITLER!: More than 1,200 screaming, fighting Jewish refugees today were forced off the miserable illegal immigrant ship, Four Freedoms, and literally carried aboard a British transport for deportation to Cyprus, [including] about a hundred pregnant women.
MAYOR TO URGE FUNDS FOR ISLE AIRPORT TODAY - Asserts Lake Front Strip Is Vital to City: Mayor Kelly today will appear before the city council finance committee to urge that the allocation of funds for the creation of a modern lake front air passenger terminal on Northerly Island be expedited.
Season Here for Robes and House Coats: Nippy fall weather brings out the breakfast coats and lounging house robes of wool or the many stunning wool and rayon mixtures, the latter less warm than the all-woolens but grand ideas for an early fall tryout.
Paris Designer Brings Styles of 1920 to Date: Diamond nose rings and spangle nailed black gloves were noted at Robert Piguet's fashions show today, but they were just novelties to attract foreigners' eyes. The general style of the collection was a refined trend toward a modernized 1920.
CHIPMAN, CUBS TRIUMPH, 2-0, OVER PIRATES
Victors Tally Both Runs in 7th Inning: The Cubs indulged in a sort of pleasure cruise this afternoon while doing their season's final on Forbes field under the left handed guidance of Bob Chipman. The Chicagoans prolonged their pennant contending life by clipping the cellar dwelling Pirates.
3 SOX DOUBLES IN 16TH WIN, 4-3 - Caldwell Stops Tigers for 12th Victory: Comiskey park's smallest crowd of the season yesterday saw one of the thrillingest ball games of the campaign, a 16 inning contest in which the White Sox scored two runs in the 16th to win, 4 to 3, after the Detroit Tigers had gone ahead, 3 to 2, in the first half of the final inning.
Birthday: scientist John McCarthy (19)
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Dot and Sis; Dave (at right) with his brother Charlie
Thursday September 5 1946
“Dave called in the afternoon. He asked me to go out tonight, but I told him I couldn't. So we made a date for Friday.
Sis and I went down 63rd. Coming home we met Dave and his brother, Charlie. Dave kept up his usual teasing.
Sis and I then stopped in Parnell and had a lemonade. Went home and layed around. Listened to the radio, too. I was dead tired.”
Comments:
On the radio this evening: The Aldrich Family, Burns and Allen, and The Dick Haymes Show.
Today's news:
GANDHI PLEDGES UNTOUCHABLES: YOU'LL BE FREE: Mohandas K. Gandhi today reported to his huge following of largely illiterate “untouchables” that the new All-India government is pledged to work toward the removal of the social blot which makes them outcasts among their countrymen.
31 BRICK HOUSES CASUALTIES OF SUPER-HIGHWAY - Halt Work; Sites to Be Right of Way: Thirty-one neat, brick dwellings in Westchester will not be completed and sold because the Congress st. super-highway requires that the land on which they are being built be added to its right of way.
FIRST TRAILERS ARRIVE TO AID VETS' HOUSING - Six Units Scheduled for Hanson Park: Chicago's temporary veterans' housing program, which has been delayed by lack Of funds and materials, was aided yesterday with the arrival of the first shipment of trailers for a proposed 1,000 trailer housing program.
FINISH LINEUP FOR ROY ROGERS NEW AIR SHOW - Broadcasts Scheduled to Start Oct. 5: The lineup for the new Roy Rogers show, which will replace the veteran National Barn Dance on NBC at 8 p. m. Saturdays, starting Oct. 5, has been completed. Rogers will be aided by Pat Buttram, the pride of Winston county, Ala.
French Stylist Introduces a $48,000 Gown: A six million franc [$48,000] diamond studded evening gown was presented today by Balenciago to launch real jeweled costumes for fabulously war-enriched society leaders. The dressmaker admitted he did not expect many sales.
DODGERS WIN, 3 TO 1; CARDS ROUT CUBS, 8 TO 1; ST. LOUIS KEEPS 2 GAME LEAD OVER BROOKLYN: The first place St, Louis Cardinals tore down the National league pennant road again tonight, leaving in their wake a battered batch of Cubs, who absorbed an 8 to 1 bruising before 23,732 customers. The pace setters knocked Henry Borowy apart.
Birthdays: Freddie Mercury (born today), Raquel Welch (6), Bob Newhart (17)
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Dot and Dave; Buckingham Fountain
Friday September 6 1946
“Got up at 9:00 today and ironed a little. Put on my white dress. Dave came at 7:30. We took an L downtown and watched the Buckingham Fountain light up.
While Dave was buying cigarettes, a drunken guy came up to me and wanted me to ditch Dave or to at least give him my phone number.
We were going to go to a show, but instead walked around the lakefront. We sat down in a real cool place facing the lake.
We talked and he kissed me, then there were a series of luscious kisses. We left this spot at 12:30, when a cop told us to go.
Got home at 2. What a guy.”
Buckingham Fountain
Today's news:
LINGERING DEATH STRIKES BIKINI TEST MENAGERIE - 60% Fatalities Result of Underwater Blast: Lingering death rays of an atomic can seep into the interiors of tightly sealed warships, a report on “operation crossroads” disclosed today.
A BAFFLED NAVY CALLS CIVILIANS TO HELP IT OUT: The navy bureaeu of ships has called in 39 civilian technicians to help it figure out what to do with 50 million dollars' worth of machinery parts piled on Guam and Pearl Harbor, the navy disclosed today.
G.O.P. Chance Is Here, Green Tells Women: The November elections present the brightest prospects in 16 years for Republican victory in Cook county and an end of the Kelly machine's stranglehold on local government, [Illinois] Gov. Green told an audience of 300 attending a dinner meeting on the biennial convention program.
CARDS BEAT CUBS, 10-1; KEEP 2-GAME LEAD
ROUT SCHMITZ IN THIRD; POUND KUSH, BAUERS: The thunder of Cardinal base hits tonight forced the Cubs to give out, feebly, of course, with what was just about their swan song in the National league race. The pace setters turned loose a devastating attack behind Harry Brecheen.
BEARS' CLOSING RALLY DEFEATS YANKS, 24 TO 11 - Luckman's Passes Set Up Scores: The Chicago Bears broke a 10 to 10 tie with 14 points in the last quarter in defeating the Boston Yanks, 24 to 17, in an exhibition meeting of National Football league teams before 34,496 tonight. The game was played on [an illuminated] field.
Birthday: Joseph P. Kennedy, Sr. (58)
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63rd and Halsted Sts.; Sunny, Dot and Sis; Lill, Sis and Dot
Saturday September 7 1946
“Got up at 9:00. Went down 63rd and, as we were looking at a counter, someone poked me on the back. It was Pete Martin and Dutz. I nearly died thinking it was Herb. They walked us home and stayed awhile.
Later it rained, and Sunny and Lill came over. We had our pajama party, but were interrupted by Dutz, Pete and Howard Smith. They came with a 1/5 of wine. We couldn't get rid of them as they were drunk. I had to kiss Dutz twice to get rid of him.
They left, and us girls ate and listened to the radio. Went to bed at 3:00 a.m.
(Dave called too, and said he would pick me up at 12:30 tomorrow.)”
.
Today's news:
Heirens Is Put in Prison for 3 Life Terms - Triple Slayer Taken to Prison: William G. Heirens, 17, murderer of Suzanne Degnan and two women, late yesterday entered Stateville penitentiary, near Joliet, beginning a series of three life and 28 other sentences designed to keep him in prison for the rest of his life.
OFFICIALS O. K. ISLE LEASE FOR AIRPORT ON LAKE: Mayor Kelly and James H. Gately, president of the Chicago Park district, agreed yesterday to terms under which the park district will lease Northerly Island to the city for $1 a year for a downtown air passenger terminal.
REALTY VALUES IN N. Y. UP AS STREET CARS GO: Property values, business, and traffic have improved along New York thorofares where buses have replaced street cars, an inquiry disclosed today.
Biggest Meat Famine Forecast as OPA Puts Back Ceilings: A meat famine unrivaled even in the dark days of last spring's black market was forecast by spokesmen of the live stock industry yesterday an animal receipts in the nation's stock yards hit an all-time low.
CUBS FACE REDS TODAY IN FIRST OF TWO GAMES: The Cubs will put on a brief showing today and tomorrow in Wrigley field with the Reds helping in the net before starting the final eastern tour. By the time Charley Grimm's boys come back to their home fireside they may look a bit different, so lake a look at 'em now...
Birthday: Buddy Holly (10), Grandma Moses (86).
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Dot (in black dress) with Dave's family.
Dave (third from left) with his clan. Ken, Dave's older brother from California (wearing the dark fedora), drove “tipsy” Dot and “stewed” Dave home.
Sunday September 8 1946
“Got up at 11:00, and Dave came at 12:45. We went to the Illinois Central station on 63rd and Blackstone. We met his brother Charlie and his girlfriend, Theresa.
The train came at 2:12. Got there at 3:35 or so and gosh, was I surprised to see Bill, Ruth and the kids meeting us.
Dave's mom lives in Flossmoor, on a little farm. I met all his swell relatives including a 16 year old, Rosemarie.
We went to a small carnival. I got tipsy, so went back to the house. Dave came back later, stewed, and passed out.
Dave's brother from California took us all home. Dave walked me home from his place at 2:00 a.m.”
.
Today's news:
TRUMAN PUTS OFF 1947 BIKINI BLAST; Deep Water Atom Bomb Test Delayed Indefinitely: President Truman indefinitely postponed today the third Bikini atomic bomb test, a deep underwater explosion, tentatively set for March 1, 1947
Food Stores Start Lay-Offs; Many Staples Exhausted; Some Big Outlets Say They Will Have to Close : Large food stores in New York City, with shelves and stocks bare of many essential staple items because of the truck strike, began laying off employes yesterday. In others idle clerks stood around with very little to sell and few customers to sell to.
ATOMIC ENERGY USE IN INDUSTRY NEAR, BARUCH AIDES FIND; Scientists Hold Plant Could Be Built to Run: It is now possible to build an atomic power plant that would produce electrical energy at an operating cost only 26 per cent higher than that of a comparable plant using coal, scientists reported today.
Engagement of Princess Elizabeth Is Denied; Troth to Philip of Greece Was Reported: Londoners were briefly thrilled today by a report that Princess Elizabeth, who will one day rule over them, was to become engaged to her second cousin, Prince Philip of Greece, but their expectations of a royal marriage were ended.
HERE COMES AUTUMN: It won't be long now. A few more weeks and autumn will be on the hilltops, flame in the maples and rouge on the dogwoods. And the sumac will be tattering away in scarlet streamers for every breeze, while the asters and the goldenrod still frost the meadow.
Dave called at 7:00 and came over at 8:30. We went down 63rd & Halsted and got his nephew Red a present. Coming back, we met Chuck and Doty. We had a Coke on 63rd & Harvard.
Then we took a walk to 67th & Lowe to a little park. Sat on the grass and discussed all sorts of things. Threw grass on each other and then he kissed me.
He told me that at first he thought I was kind of bad, but now he thinks I'm really good, and also that he liked me a real lot. Got in at 1:45.”
Harris (Ryan) Memoral Park, as it has been named more recently, at 67th and Lowe Sts.
.
Today's news:
Temperature to Rise to 90 Today; Rain Tomorrow
HEAR 8 STATIONS AT ONCE IN NEW RADIO PROCESS - Device Puts Programs on Single Channel: A revolutionary type of high frequency, broadcasting, akin to radar, by which eight programs are sent out simultaneously on one radio channel, picked up by one receiver, and heard individually on eight separate speakers, was demonstrated here today.
AIDS TO RADIO'S TOP COMICS GET SHOWS OF OWN - Alice Faye Will Sing on Phil Harris Spot: The funny men of radio draw the biggest audiences— and the most money. Year after year Bob Hope, Fibber and Molly, Jack Benny, Fred Allen, Edgar Bergen, and Eddie Cantor lead the radio parade. This season there will be several newcomers on the networks.
Designer Uses Tyrolean Motif in New Models: Originals from the Lanz collections for fall and winter continue this designer's predilection for combining vivid red with green. With a most nostalgic suggestion of his native Tyrolean scene, Lanz trims his jaunty coats and dresses of fine wool with his signature motif.
49ERS DEFEATED BY YANKS, 21-7, IN ALL-AMERICA - 35,000 'Frisco Fans See New York Eleven's Rally: Combining crushing ground power with a clever passing attack, the New York Yankees defeated the San Francisco 49ers, 21 to 7, before 35,000 in Kezar stadium today in the first All-America conference championship season game for both teams and the first on the Pacific coast.
56,038 Watch Sox Nip Tigers Twice, 3-2,6-0: A crowd of 56,038 flocked to Briggs stadium this afternoon, bent on seeing Hal Newhouser win his 25th victory, Virgil Trucks his 14th, and to possibly watch the Tigers overtake the second place Yankees in the American league race.
Birthday: Otis Redding (5)
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Helen and Viola
Dot, Sis and Sunny went to the Oriental theatre at Randolph and State, where The Ink Spots were appearing for their last two days. Other acts (as seen on the marquee in the photo by Walker Evans) were Coke and Poke, Ida James, tap dancer Peg Leg Bates, and Eddie “Mr. Cleanhead” Vinson & his orchestra.
Sis, Sunny and Dot; The Chicago Public Library, on Michigan Ave., between Randolph and Washington. The library moved in the 1990s, and the building above was renamed as the Chicago Cultural Center.
Tuesday September 10 1946
“Helen and Vi came over and had some tea. We also acted goofy. Dave came around at 3:30 to get the gifts. He said he had to go back to the lab from 7 to 12.
Then Sis and I took an L downtown and met Sunny. We went to the Oriental and saw the Ink Spots in person. They sang ‘Prisoner of Love’, and I cried like a baby.
After that we ate, and stopped in the Chicago Public Library. Got the giggles, so we left. Had a swell time.
Left downtown at 10:00. Met Chuck and then, of all people, Bob Lenhart. Got a letter from Miller.”
The Ink Spots, singing Prisoner of Love
Comments:
No clue as to who Bob Lenhart is.
Miller has joined the service.
Dot wrote in the back of her diary: “‘Prisoner of Love’— reminds me of Herb and I breaking up.”
The lyrics:
Alone from night to night you'll find me; too weak to break the chains that bind me.
I need no shackles to remind me, I'm just a prisoner of love.
For one command, I stand and wait now; from one who's master of my fate now.
I can't escape for it's too late now, I'm just a prisoner of love.
What's the good of my caring if someone is sharing those arms with me.
Although she has another, I can't find another, for I'm not free.
She's in my dreams awake or sleeping, upon my knees to her I'm creeping,
My very life is in her keeping, I'm just a prisoner of love.
Today's news:
LITHUANIAN PATRIOTS FIGHT ON UNDER HEEL OF RUSSIA: Russia's iron was pierced today when a refugee, who escaped from Lithuania days ago, disclosed the existence of a widespread resistance movement which engages in frequent armed clashes with Red troops and police.
NEW REFUGEES TELL OF SEEING SOVIET TERROR - Reach Miami After Voyage in Sloop: A new and first hand account of the Russian terror that is compelling Europeans to across the Atlantic in small boats was told tonight by the second group of Estonian refugees to arrive in Miami within 20 days.
WANTS BUMPER ON SPACE SHIPS FLYING TO MOON - Harvard Astro-physicist Fears Meteorites: Bumpers to save space ships from destruction in case of collision with meteorites during trips to the moon and other planets were advocated here today at the 75th meeting of the American Astronomical society in the Memorial Union building.
Science Waves a Wand: Curls for All Women: Permanent waves for every woman, even those whose hair composition has previous waving methods, were promised yesterday in a paper presented before the 110th meeting of the American Chemical society, convening in several loop hotels.
LAMOTTA TO GO 6 ROUNDS TODAY IN LOOP WORKOUT: Jake Lamotta, hard fighting middleweight contender from New York, will put on a brief showing today and tomorrow in Ringside loop gymnasium before going thru a 10 round bout against Robert Satterfield in Wrigley field Thursday night.
BEARS, EAGLES EXPECT 80,000 - Geyer Back in Condition for Friday Game: All attendance records for professional football are likely to be shattered here Friday night when the Chicago Bears battle the Philadelphia Eagles in Municipal stadium. Advance sales indicate that the nonchampionship contest will draw 80,000 fans.
Cubs Adjust Race Sights; Aim for Third
Birthday: Arnold Palmer (17)
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Dot; Stan Jennings; Herb Martin
Wednesday September 11 1946
“Got a letter from Stan. Didn't do much all day. In the evening, Sis went for a bus ride and I stayed in.
Pete Martin and Dutz came over, and then we went for a walk to Mrs. Martin's. She was home, and she started asking me about Herb. I told her we broke up. She was sore at him.
We had a swell time. Pete and Dutz were real silly playing soldiers.
We left after an hour and they walked me home. We stopped in Minuet's and had a Coke. Pete gave me two Navy jumpers. Got in at 10:30.”
Comments:
Pete and Mrs. Martin are Herb's twin brother and mother, respectively. Dutz is one of Herb's best friends.
The Martin's house, at 639 W. 61st Place (2018 view)
Pete Martin gave two “Navy jumpers” to Dot
Today's news:
GERMANS LIKE U.S. SPORTS, BUT REDS COMPLAIN - Protest Sending Food to Berlin, Too: The Russians protested in Berlin's allied Kommandantur (control command) today against two American sponsored welfare and recreational activities conducted for the benefit of the Germans.
Begin 10-Hour Air Service to Los Angeles: American Air Lines yesterday started 10 hour, 5 minute service between Chicago and Los Angeles, cutting one-half hour off its previous fastest time.
YANKS IN KOREA BEAR UP DESPITE DIFFICULT TASK - Unwelcome to Koreans; Maligned by Reds: Moving slowly in the face of enormous difficulties, the American occupation force in southern Korea is shaping a nation.
PIPELINE IDLE AS GAS SELLS AT 30 Cents IN ALASKA - U. S. Urged to Open Its War Time Carrier: Alaskans of the interior, paying 30 cents a gallon and more for gasoline, are asking why the federal government persists in its refusal to open, for civilian use, the war time pipeline from Skagway to Fairbanks.
New Hues Add to Fascination of Fleece Coat: The beautiful fleece coats designed by Stroock have attained a new fascination this fall because of their unusual colors. Their classic streamline is still superlative, the tailoring incomparable, and prices range from reasonable to costly.
Braves Whip Cubs and Five Pitchers, 10-2: The Cubs moved quietly today toward the spot in the pennant road where they are destined to be relieved of their National league title. They had a lot of music while stepping along their unhappy way, but the musicians were the Braves.
SENATORS SNUFF SOX LIGHTS, 4-2; Priddy Hits 2 Home Runs in Chicago Night Final: Marino Pieretti, who had won only one game this season, last night held the White Sox to four hits in his first start since last September. Gerry Priddy, who previously had made only four homers all season, made two homers.
Birthday: Lola Falana (4)
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Dot, Lill and Sis; Dave; Doty
Thursday September 12 1946
“Dave called and, in the evening, Sis, Lil and I went down 63rd. Met Dave and Doty. He teased me.
Had a lot of fun tonight. Back home at 10:15.”
.
Today's news:
‘TOUGH’ BUTCHERS BAR OPA'S AGENTS; Investigators Are Not Allowed to Go Behind Counters or to Check: Black marketers “got tough” yesterday as the meat famine touched a growing number of butcher shops and dinner tables throughout the nation
DUST THEORY GIVEN ON STAR FORMATION; Lyman Spitzer of Yale Tells Astronomers Heat Loss Fuses Gases: More support for the theory that stars are being formed out of the diffuse material in space was presented here today by Dr. Lyman Spitzer Jr. of Yale University observatory.
TAFT ASKS WE STOP APPEASING RUSSIA; As Ohio Republican Keynoter He Says Peril From Abroad Rivals Pre-War: Senator Robert A. Taft accused President Truman's administration today of appeasement of Russia and declared that “this nation is in as much danger from abroad now as before the war.”
PROSPECTS FOR ATOMIC POWER: The survey of atomic power's future, prepared ... for the United Nations Atomic Energy Committee, does not support the theory that by the beginning of the next century coal and oil will cease to be of economic importance.
NEW FABRICS USED IN MODEL ROOMS; ON THE DECORATOR'S SPRING LIST: New decorating materials made their first public appearance yesterday in model interiors designed by Isabel Barringer and Ted Muller for [a] preview and fashion show. New weaves of Velon, the plastic yarn introduced about a year ago, were displayed. A dining-sitting room ... had a curved sectional sofa covered with a new weave of Celanese carpet yarns.
MRS. EISENHOWER DIES AT AGE OF 84; Mother of General Who Led Allied Victory in Europe Had Four Other Children: Mrs. Ida Stover Eisenhower, mother of Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower, died early today in [her] rambling frame house.
CUBS,BRAVES PLAY 17-INNING TIE, 3-3; Barrett Stops Threat in 16th: The Chicago Cubs and the Boston Braves made their last meeting of 1946 a memorable one today by playing a 3-3 tie that was called at the end of the 17th inning because of darkness. The game was the longest of the year at Braves Field.
Birthday: Maurice Chevalier (58)
--
Dot and Dave saw a double feature at the Southtown theatre:
In O.S.S. (“The screen's most thrilling adventure”; clip above), Alan Ladd is part of a wartime spy team sent to France to blow up a bridge. Geraldine Fitzgerald plays his love interest.
Set in the fictional western town of Prairie Dog, Renegades features a young woman who falls in love with the son of an outlaw.
In the evening, Dave came. We went to the Southtown and saw O.S.S. (his outfit), and Renegades (good). Ate at the Southtown restaurant.
Came home, and we sat on the front steps. Dave analyzed my character. He wants to go to the University of Chicago to study psychology. We almost got into an argument, but his pleasing personality couldn't be resisted.
Chuck came and sat with us too. Very nice evening. In bed at 3:00.”
Comments:
Dave enlisted in the army at age 16 (claiming he was 18), and served in the aforementioned O.S.S.— the army's new Office of Strategic Services—while in Burma.
Neither the Univ. of Chicago nor psychology would be in the cards for my father, as things turned out.
Regarding the Southtown Restaurant, Sis (Dot's sister) commented on Dot's May 12, 1945 diary entry:
“I can't place all these eating spots—Southtown, Myrt & Henry's, etc.—but the names are familiar. So many restaurants, so little time! We made them all, I bet. No wonder I couldn't lose weight, although Dot didn't have that problem—lucky her!”
The trailer for O.S.S.
Today's news:
AMERICA SEEKS TO RULE WORLD, RUSSIA CHARGES - Naval Policy Is Branded as ‘Offensive’: A Russian admiral writing in Pravda today said United States naval policy was clearly “offensive” in character and showed “an ever increasing tendency in American politics toward world rule.”
WORKERS ROUT 50 CIO GOONS IN STREET BATTLE: A flying squadron of about 50 CIO labor goons recruited in the Chicago area raced into La Porte [Indiana] today and wielded rubber hoses in a battle in Courthouse Square against 200 workers on their way to jobs in the Allis Chalmers plant.
20 BUILDINGS WILL BE RAZED FOR NEW SUBWAY - 35 Tenants in Single Structure Jolted: Announcement yesterday that the city had contracted for razing 20 commercial buildings south of the loop for construction of the Milwaukee av.- Dearborn st.- Congress st. subway dumbfounded tenants in the 10 story building at 509 S. Franklin st.
LAMOTTA WINS BY K. O. IN 7TH; 9,950 See Satterfield Whipped Decisively: Jake Lamotta, durable New York slugger, knocked out Robert Satterfield, Illinois No. 1 light heavyweight, in the seventh round of a scheduled 10 round fight which topped the second big outdoor show of the season in Wrigley field last night.
CUBS LOSE, 4-3; THEN BEAT PHILS IN 10TH; 5 TO 4; Rickert's Double Key Hit in 2nd Game: A single by Phil Cavarretta, his fourth hit of the game, followed by Marvin Ricket's double with two out in the 10th inning gave the Chicago Cubs a 5 to 4 victory in the second game and an even break with the Phils in a double header today.
Dave came at 8:00 and Mom, Dad, he and I played cards. Had a swell time. Mom and Dad went to bed at 12:00.
Dave and I had a long talk about Burma. He kept kissing me so nice. Said he'd be over tomorrow night.”
.
Comments:
The corsage was for Dot's Mom's birthday.
Thus began the first of many card games (usually pinochle, usually well into the early morning) Dave and (the very sharp) Louis and others would play in the coming years.
Today's news:
CHICAGO MEAT OUTPUT CLOSE TO STANDSTILL - Hog Receipts Only 1,000 Head: Production of meat in the Chicago stock yards came almost to a standstill yesterday as a result of light live stock movement from farms. Many packers did not slaughter animals of any kind.
CHICAGO AREA DRIVING 48,100 NEW 1946 CARS: About 48,700 new 1946 automobiles have been delivered to motorists in the Chicago area ... it was estimated yesterday. Of these about three-fourths have been delivered within the city proper.
Silk Hosiery Is Back, Filmy and Beautiful: Silk hosiery, the pre-war kind, still holds the old allure. It's the smoothest accent for any ankles. Exquisitely sheer and clear films in flattering and slenderizing tints, and in all purpose shades to wear and anything and everything are here [for] appreciative shoppers.
WILLIAM McKINLEY: William McKinley, 25th President of the United States, died 45 years ago today from bullet wounds inflicted by a crazed assassin.
BEARS WIN OVER EAGLES, 24 TO 12; 92,800 See 3rd Straight Exhibition Victory: The Chicago Bears rolled in championship form again tonight. High Gallarneau, Sid Luckman, George McAfee, and Ken Kavanaugh of the pre-war champions led the attack in a 24 to 12 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles in Municipal stadium.
Birthday: architect Renzo Piano (9)
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Dot's mom, Pauline; Dot and Dave
Sunday September 15 1946
“Helped Mom in the afternoon. In the evening, Dan, Moe, Lil, Jule, George, Dot & kids, Tony and Chum came over.
At 8:15, Dave came, too, and looked real nice, as usual. Bought Mom a box of candy. I had my hair upswept and he said it looked real cute.
We really had a swell time. We sang every song known, until we couldn't sing anymore. Dave has a real nice bass voice that goes right through me. He and I ate alone in the dining room.
The company left at twenty to 12. Dave and I went for a walk down 63rd. We were insulting each other, as usual, and then he told me I was awfully pretty and had a swell personality. He kissed me a lot and gosh— I do like him.”
.
Comments:
The family (Dan, Moe, etc.) came over for Dot's mother's birthday.
Today's news:
New England Escapes Hurricane As Blow Veers Suddenly Out to Sea: A threat to the southeastern New England coast and Nantucket Island from a tropical hurricane that roared up the eastern sea lanes yesterday was averted last night when the storm suddenly veered to sea, several hundred miles from shore.
Musicians Win Pay Increase In 41 of City's Night Clubs; NIGHT CLUB BANDS WIN PAY INCREASE: The threat of bandless Broadway night clubs was lifted yesterday through the intervention of the State Mediation Board and an agreement by employers in forty-one night spots to pay their orchestra men 20 per cent above current rates.
MOLOTOV WARNS WEST NOT TO TRY ANTI-SOVIET BLOC; Sees Peril of Another War in ‘Attempts Against Peace’: In a speech ranging far beyond the statute of Trieste, his theme, Foreign Minister Vyacheslav M. Molotov of the Soviet Union warned the Western Allies today against attempts at forming blocs that omitted the Soviet Union.
DEWEY SEES PEACE SLOWED BY RUSSIA; Assails ‘Increasing Demands’ as a Factor: Governor Dewey criticized Soviet Russia last night for its “increasing demands which slow up the preparations for peace.”
BACK SEAT DRIVING BY MALES ASSAILED; AAA Official Says Husbands Who Heckle Wives at Wheel Add to Road Mishaps: Husbands who are back seat drivers exercise a retarding influence on wives who are the better motorists, according to data released yesterday by [the] American Automobile Association.
Birthdays: Oliver Stone, Tommy Lee Jones (both born on this day)
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Dot and Sis; Dot
Monday September 16 1946
“Sis didn't go to school today, and I didn't go for a job either. Did odds and ends around the house.
In the evening, I put on my cap-sleeved, black blouse, and Sis and I went down 63rd. Got back at 8:30.
Dave called and said he was working late and would see me tomorrow night. Had a nice, long talk.
Sis and I played records, and then I read for awhile, but went to sleep sort of early.”
.
Comments:
It's Sis' senior year at Englewood High School.
Today's news:
AFL HEAD WARNS NEGROES: DON'T FALL FOR REDS - Would Only Be Catspaws, Green Asserts: William Green, president of the American Federation of Labor, yesterday warned American Negroes against falling prey to the blandishment of Communists who are seeking to use them as catspaws in fomenting revolution. The Communists, he added, have no concern for them.
ELEVATED LINES TO GET $400,000 TRAIN FOR TESTS - Cars to Be Quiet, Roomy, Speedy and Warm: Delivery of four elevated-subway cars, making up an experimental train, is expected by officials of the Chicago Rapid Transit company some time this winter.
CHICAGO BEATS BROOKLYN, 4-3, ON TWO IN 10th; Dodgers Win, 2-0, in Five Innings: The Cubs passed out of the National league pennant race mathematically this afternoon, but not before doing some joyful free slugging that jolted the Dodgers' hopes of getting to the World Series.
Birthdays: Lauren Bacall (22), J.C. Penney (71)
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Dee and Dot; Vince and Sarah—Dave's brother-in-law and sister; Dave, probably during 1944-45
I sat on the front steps, and then Dave came at 8:15— with Bill. I was surprised, but glad to see him.
We three met Dave's sister, Sarah, and went to Dave's place and had some beer with his landlady. Then the four of us went in Bill's truck to Sarah's house.
Vince was home, so we played some poker and had some beer, too. Dave and I went on their back porch and he took me in his arms and kissed me.
We left Sarah's at 1:15 and rode back to Dave's house. Then Dave just walked me home. He kept kissing me. I'd say something, and he'd only keep kissing me.”
.
Comments:
Bill is Dave's brother-in-law. Dot and Dave stayed at Bill's house in Winamac, Indiana, over Labor Day.
Famine Closes 60% of City Meat Shops; 80,000 Lose Jobs - Chicken and Fish Supplies Drop Thruout U.S.: Sixty per cent of Chicago's meat counters and shops were closed yesterday. Chicago became virtually a meatless city. Across the nation, 80,000 workers were out of jobs while an unparalleled meat famine clamped down from coast to coast.
GREAT TURNOUT DUE AT RALLY ON CONSTITUTION: A big turnout is expected tonight for the Orchestra hall celebration of Constitution day when the citizen's enlarged role in government will be emphasized by Joseph R. McCarthy, Republican nominee for senator in Wisconsin.
BIGGER OUTPUT BY MEN, TOOLS URGED BY FORD - Assails Misuse of Right to Strike: The productivity of both men and machinery must be increased substantially before the automobile industry will be able to provide year round employment or guarantee an annual wage, Henry Ford II., president of the Ford Motor company, said today.
NEGRO COMBAT TEAM PLANNED IN STATE GUARD - Complete Unit Approved by War Department: Gov. Green announced yesterday that a complete negro combat team of Illinois National Guard troops will be established as one of the five units in the state.
DODGERS LOSE TO CUBS, 10-7; TRAIL 2 GAMES; 4 RUN HOMER BY NICHOLSON BREAKS 5-5 TIE: The Cubs dipped into the National league pennant race again today by slaying the second place Dodgers and leaving the remains two full games to the rear of the pace setting Cardinals, who were idle today.
Birthdays: David Souter (7), Ken Kesey (11)
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The Wieboldt department store (top photo, center right) was on 63rd St. near Union, a block west of the Linden theatre and Whelan Drugs. Wieboldt's once had ten stores in the Chicago area; they became bankrupt in 1986. The photo above shows a present-day view of the same location.
Wednesday September 18 1946
“Stayed in all day, altho in the morning I did go to Wieboldt's to apply for a job. They said they'd call me.
Got out at 8:30, came home, ate, and took a walk. Met Dave as he was coming from the Stratford. He walked us up to Harvard [St.] cause he had to meet Bud at 10:00.
Sis and I had a root beer and came right home. I went to bed fairly early.”
Comments:
The Stratford theatre (where Dave was coming from when he met up with Dot) was showing two older movies tonight: Bing Crosby in If I Had My Way (1940), and Alfred Hitchcock's Shadow of a Doubt (1943).
Bud Boyt is one of Dave's best friends.
The trailer for One More Tomorrow
The trailer for Dark Corner
Today's news:
ARMY THUNDERJET FLASHES 611 M.P.H., A NEW U. S. RECORD
Hosiery Production Now Called Ample to Fill Requirements
LABOR UNDER REDS NOT FREE, KOREA LEARNS - Land Proves Test Tube of Soviet Promises: Numerous inconsistencies are found when soviet proposals for reform in Japan are examined in the light of actual Russian performance in north Korea where 10,000,000 persons live under the eye of the 25th Red army.
CARTOON COMIC STEALS SHOW AT PARIS PARLEY - Delegates Move Slowly at Treaty Tasks: An animated cartoon shown on a television screen at Luxembourg palace today drew bigger crowds than the Paris peace conference. Wrangling delegates, jaded spectators, and bored gendarmes jammed the entrance hall to see the program.
Bears Defeat Akron, 38-13, in Exhibition: The Chicago Bears rolled up a 31 to 0 lead in the first half, then settled for a 38 to 13 victory over the Akron Bears of the American league in an exhibition game in Akron's Rubber bowl before a crowd of 14,583 tonight.
Toronto First Home Foe for Blackhawks: The longest schedule ever played in the National Hockey league will open Oct. 16 at Detroit and close on March 23. The schedule calls for each team to meet each of the league opponents 12 times, six at home and six away for a total of 60 games for each club.
Birthday: Greta Garbo (41).
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Dave (at right) with his younger brother Charlie, 1946; Dave
Thursday September 19 1946
“Dave called at 2:00 from the lab between patients. Then he came over at 8:00 and we went for my long-desired Coke he had promised me before.
We took a long walk. Met Chuck and Doty and Dave's brother [Charlie]. Dave bought me a chocolate ice cream cone, and we held hands and walked all over, giggling.
Then we went window shopping— mostly furniture stores. He bought us a hot dog and we had more fun than ever before.
We sat on the front steps arguing playfully. He said, ‘Gee, you're gorgeous when you laugh’.
That boy has the sweetest way about him.”
.
Today's news:
CHAOS SPREADS OVER CAFES AND MEAT INDUSTRY - One Packing Firm to Close Today: The meat famine tightened its grip on Chicago and the nation yesterday.
BRITAIN'S REPLY TO RED CHARGE: ‘TITTLE TATTLE!’ - Greek Issue Termed Fact Perversion: With scorching irony, suave Alexander Cadogan of Great Britain today branded as “tittle-tattle” and “dishonest perversion” soviet charges that the British supported monarchist government of Greece is a threat to world peace.
Super-poison! ‘Ounce Could Slay All U. S.’: Existence of a new poison so deadly that less than one seven millionths of a gram--a microscopic quantity--is enough to kill a man and a one inch cube could kill every person in North America was disclosed here today.
AIR LINE STARTS FIRST SERVICE TO SCANDINAVIA - For Business, Sport, or to Visit Uncle Hugo: The inaugural flight of the Scandinavian Airlines System from New York to Copenhagen, Oslo, and Stockholm completed the first leg of the 4,200 mile journey here today.
1ST HELICOPTER MADE READY FOR MAIL TEST HERE: The first of five army helicopters to be used in a postoffice department airmail speedup experiment in the Chicago area was being prepared yesterday at the Douglas airport for preliminary survey flights.
TUCKER LEASES CHICAGO PLANT TO MAKE AUTOS - Rent Reduced in Final Talks with WAA: Leasing of the world's largest manufacturing facility, the 170 million dollar Dodge Chicago plant, to the Tucker corporation to house production lines for its new Tucker Torpedo automobile, was consummated today.
Husbands Turn Hat Designers; Stress Quiet at Fashion Show: If it is true that the hat designers dress the girl to get the man, then it must be that the husband, turned designer, dresses her to keep her. Such a conclusion was reached easily by those attending a hat fashion show yesterday in the Mayfair room of the Blackstone.
Birthday: Brook Benton (later one of Dot's favorite singers; 15 years old today)
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Dot's aunt Dot, uncle George, and George, Jr.
Dot, Dave and Chuck sat and talked on Dot's front stairs on this Friday evening.
Friday September 20 1946
“Stayed in and washed my hair. George and Dot came over at 7:30. Dave at 7:45. I had my red dress on.
They played pinochle, and I kept score and also had a few drinks. I got dizzy, so Sis and I went for a walk to Parnell for some ice cream.
We had some coffee and played Sonny's dart game. Dave and I played some records, and waltzed a little.
George and Dot went home at 12:00. Dave and I went for a very nice, long walk. Sat on the front stairs.
Chuck talked to us for awhile. He was very sweet and tender. I still like him.
This seems to be the first letter Dot's received from Herb since he returned to his post in Washington, D.C.
Today's news:
‘ROBOT’ TICKET AGENT CAN EVEN RETURN CHANGE - New Coin Machine Prints Railroad Tickets and Makes Change
KOREA BRANDED AS POWDER KEG BY MACARTHUR - Red War Menace Cited by House Member: Gen. MacArthur was said by Rep. Short, (R., Mo.), today to regard Korea as a powder keg which might provide the explosion for a war.
VICTIM RELATES RIOT SHOOTING IN NEGROES' TRIAL - Court Bars Testimony on Previous Lynchings: An eye-witness account of the shooting of four city police officers Feb. 25 during race riots in Columbia, and the refusal ... to admit testimony regarding previous lynchings in that town, were highlights of the opening day.
HOUSING GROUP DEMANDS 5,600 HOMES FOR VETS - Urges Mayor and Council to Keep Pledge: Members of Mayor Kelly's emergency housing committee yesterday decided “to stop playing the role of stooges” by demanding that the mayor and the city council fulfill their pledge of providing 5,600 temporary housing units in the veterans' emergency program.
MEN'S CLOTHES BARELY TO LAST THRU 6 MONTHS - Stores Expecting Bigger Supplies in Spring
Lacking Meat, Try Sea Foods in Casseroles: A wonderful way to get around the staggering prices and emptiness of butcher shops is to serve individual casseroles filled with other protein rich foods. There's something very flattering about the individual service— and chances are the absence of meat won't be noticed.
‘Babs’ Hutton to Live Life of Arab in Palace: Barbara Hutton, whose Woolworth dimes have made her the second richest woman in the world, has purchased a $75,000 Arabian nights palace here because “I've always wanted to live like an Arab.”
Cubs Lose to Giants, 1-0, on Balk, Single: Hank Wyse of the Cubs was surprised into committing a balk in the sixth inning today and that slip led to a 1 to 0 defeat at the hands of Dave Koslo and a supporting cast of tall-end Giants.
On this day: the first Cannes Film Festival began.
The Eighth Street Theater, at Wabash and 8th, behind the Stevens Hotel, where Dot and Dave saw the WLS National Barn Dance this evening. The site is now part of the Chicago Hilton & Towers Hotel.
Saturday September 21 1946
“Got up at 10:30. Went down 63rd. Got dressed, and Dave came at 8:35.
Vertus and Sis had a date, so they drove us down to the 8th Street Theater and the WLS Barn Dance. It was so wonderful; I had a real, real good time. Laughed my sides out.
Stopped in a restaurant and ate, then went to the penny arcades on 9th & State. That was a lot of fun, too. We left downtown at 1:30, and then we took a walk, and got a hamburger and coffee.
He kissed me very possessively tonight, and really made me all flustered and uneasy. He's got some certain magnetic power— Je ne sai quoi? We couldn't say good night. Got in at 10 to 5.”
.
Comments:
Vertus first met Dot and Sis in early 1945, when he was a sailor in the Merchant Marine. Dot and Vert went out a few times. Vert wanted Dot to go out with him during the summer, but that was before Dot met Dave.
If Sis were here, she could have also commented on the trip she took with Vert (my uncle) to visit Omro, Wisconsin, in early September.
The Eighth Street Theater opened in 1900. The WLS Barn Dance began its long run there in 1932. The theater's 1,200 seats were sold out for the show as much as eight weeks in advance. In 1944, a popular film called “National Barn Dance” was released (Dot, Sis and Sunny saw it in July, 1945 —and it was “keen”.). During the war, the theater was an Army training center. The Barn Dance shows ended in 1957, and the theater was demolished in 1960. The site is now occupied by an annex to the Chicago Hilton & Towers Hotel.
Dot had seen a “super” Barn Dance show in January, 1945 at Englewood High School.
Audio of a WLS Barn Dance radio broadcast from 1945.
The area around 9th & State St. once had several penny arcades [photos]. It is mostly occupied by new condominiums and retail shops.
The Eighth Street Theater and its marquee. “WLS National Barn Dance-Every Saturday Night.”
Today's news:
ALL IN WALLACE OFFICE STUNNED EXCEPT 2 MEN - One Is Wallace, the Other His Solicitor: President Truman's announcement that he had requested Secretary Wallace's resignation came as a stunning surprise today to everyone in the commerce department.
CHICAGO'S MEAT SHOPS AT FINAL GASP IN FAMINE - Food Leader Fears Near 100% Closing: The OPA moved tonight to give hospitals, asylums, orphanages, and prisons more meat [placing] them in a preferred status.
A GHOST TOWN— IT'S STOCK YARDS IN FAMINE GRIP: Packers av., in the world's largest stock yards here, was a stretch of quiet, rough, red brick paving yesterday. Where great trucks loaded with live stock usually rumble, there was only silence.
Cubs Hope to Stall Cardinal Parade Today: The Cubs, at least what's left of them after an epidemic of broken bones, will be back in the National league pennant race today, not at contenders but in the role of would-be mischief makers.
Badgers, Illini Open College Season Today - PITT'S ELEVEN WILL APPRAISE ILLINOIS POWER: Five weeks of training and speculation have ended for the University of Illinois football squad. Tomorrow afternoon the Illini will be formally presented to 30,000 fans, and to the nation by radio, in their inaugural game with Pittsburgh.
Birthdays: journalist Bill Kurtis (6)
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Dot; Sunny
Sunday September 22 1946
“Got up at 11:00 and stayed in all day. Sunny called and said she couldn't make it tonight.
So I dressed and was going to go to the show alone, but got up to Wallace [Ave.] and turned and went home. It was cold and damp out. A guy followed me and wanted to take me out.
I put on my p.j.'s and listened to the radio.”
.
Comments:
Wallace Ave. is only one block west of Dot's, so there's no telling which movie theater she was headed towards.
On the radio tonight: Ozzie and Harriet, The Quiz Kids, Blondie, Edgar Bergen & Charlie McCarthy, and the Tommy Dorsey Band (special guest: Desi Arnaz).
Today's news:
Diplomatic Dinners Are Revived; White House Ends 7-Year Hiatus: Two diplomatic dinners will be highlights of the social season in the national capital. This became known today when the White House officially announced the resumption of its social program after a seven-year recess on State dinners.
A. & P. FOOD CHAIN HELD A MONOPOLY; 13 Companies, 16 Officers, Convicted in Federal Court: The New York Great Atlantic Pacific Tea Company, twelve of its subsidiaries and sixteen of its officers ... were convicted today.
GANDHI TO SUSTAIN POLITICAL ACTIVITY; Says in Interview That He Will Continue for Years to Come: Mohandas K. Gandhi intends to continue his political activities for many years to come in what he believes to be the interests of his countrymen
McNARNEY DENIES SLUR ON NEGROES; Says Wider Opportunities Are Needed: Gen. Joseph T. McNarney declared today that the Negro soldier needed “new and wider opportunities” to develop standards of leadership demanded in certain types of combat duties, and denied that he ever had said the Negro was a failure.
WHITE SOX GO ON RAMPAGE TO WIN 2,11-10,9-2; Come from Behind to Beat Browns in Opener: The White Sox won one game the hard way today and won another the easy way. They spotted the Browns a 6 to 1 lead in the first game of a double header and defeated them, 11 to 10, then helped themselves to a seven run lead early in the second game.
Cards Beat Cubs, 2-1; Dodgers Whip Braves, 6-2; ST. LOUIS KEEPS 1 GAME MARGIN OVER BROOKLYN: The Cubs, whose main concern is third place money, tried to throw a road block in the path of the pennant minded Cardinals yesterday, but the first placers merely went on about their business by taking the opener of a three game series, 2 to 1 [at] Wrigley field.
Birthdays: boxer Ingemar Johansson (14)
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\
Sis and Dot; Kelly Library, 62nd & Normal Blvd.– about a block south of Dot's.
Monday September 23 1946
“Again I stayed in.
In the evening, Sis and I went to the library, and then went to Parnell. Came home and read a little. In bed at 2:00.
Very dull day.”
.
Today's news:
REDS IN BRITAIN CHEER WALLACE, FLAY U. S. POLICY: Communist speakers assailed United States foreign policy and praised Henry A. Wallace as a “great American” in a Trafalgar square rally today attended by 5,000 persons.
BIG DREDGING JOB EXPANDS BOSTON AIRPORT 7 FOLD - City Spending 30 Million to Get Atlantic Traffic: Boston has increased the size of its one important commercial flying field almost seven fold in a year thru a long hydraulic dredging operation on its east Boston harbor front. The expanded airport is to be opened for flying in December.
BOROWY STOPS ST. LOUIS, 7-2, BEFORE 42,324; Play Final Today; Wyse vs. Brecheen: The Cubs tossed their few words along with a flock of base hits into the waning days of the National league race yesterday. With amazing abandon as batters, they waylaid the pace setting Cardinals by a decisive 7 to 2 before 42,324 Wrigley field patrons.
Bears Defeat Redskins for No. 5, 20 to 14: The Chicago Bears overpowered the Washington Redskins today, 20 to 14, in an exhibition professional football game, thus keeeping their record clean for their entrance into the National league race in Green Bay next Sunday.
Birthdays: Ray Charles (16), John Coltrane (20).
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Dot and Sis saw two movies at the Englewood theatre today:
In Without Reservations, a writer (Claudette Colbert) falls for war hero John Wayne, who happens to be a perfect match for the star of her latest novel.
In the courtroom drama, The Truth About Murder, a husband finds himself accused of murdering his wife, after she is found dead in her photography studio.
Got out at 6:00. Dave called, and I told him Sunny was coming over so I couldn't see him.
Sunny met us in Parnell at 8:00. We took a walk down 63rd, window shopping. Had a bite to eat, and on our way back saw Dave (he didn't see us).
Went to 63rd & Harvard for a Coke and met Lil and her sister. Home at 11:00. Mom said Bill Bardash called.”
Comments:
Dot had met Bill Bardash— a 19 year old sailor at the time— in September of 1945. Dot said Bill was a good dancer and nice-looking, but kissed “sort of boyish.”
The trailer for Without Reservations
Today's news:
Autumn Arrives Here as Sun Flits to South
NO DANGER OF WAR: STALIN - ATOMIC BOMB MONOPOLY END FORESEEN SOON: Prime Minister Stalin declared today that he could see no “real danger” of a new war in the world and added that “monopolist possession” of the atomic bomb would not exist for long.
NEGRO WITNESS TELLS ROUNDUP AFTER SHOOTING - Beaten by State Police, Riot Trial Hears: A story of the roundup by state highway patrolmen of Negro residents of near-by Columbia the morning after the shooting of four Columbia policemen last Feb. 25 was given this afternoon by Leonard Evans, 25, called as a state witness.
30,000 AT U. OF I. NEXT TEN YEARS, STODDARD SAYS - President Tells Demand for Education: Dr. George D. Stoddard, president of the University of Illinois, predicted yesterday that enrollments at the state university would crowd 30,000 for the next 10 years.
BEARS RETURN, START WORK FOR GREEN BAY GAME: The Chicago Bears checked in late yesterday afternoon at St. Joseph's college in Collegeville, Ind., and this morning will start a traditional job— that of preparing for their annual National Football league opener with the Green Bay Packers.
On this day: Cathay Pacific Airways is founded in Hong Kong.
Birthdays: Linda McCartney (5), Jim Henson (10).
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The Boston Store, at State and Madison, and an old advertisement on a Loop building, still visible today; Kelly Library ; Dave
Wednesday September 25 1946
“Went to the Boston Store and took some training to be a sales girl.
Got home at 5:00, and Dave called. We talked for about 20 minutes and made a date for Thurs.
Later, Sis and I went to the library and met Viola. Who should walk in but Dave. Had a nice talk and he told me to give my books to Sis. That I did.
Then we brought his books home and came back to my place, and we sat on the stairs. Sis made some coffee, so we had that.
We sat in the front room a while and he said, ‘Dorothy, I like you an awful lot; you're really a nice kid’.
The Boston Store was one of Chicago's largest, but by 1946, it was no longer as successful as the nearby Marshall Field's or Carson Pirie Scott. The store closed in 1948.
Today's news:
U. OF I. TO START, SHORT ON FOOD, HOUSING, BOOKS - Hundreds Must Leave to Try Elsewhere: Classes will start at 8 a. m. tomorrow at the University of Illinois with upwards of 14,000 students trying to get into classrooms. Most of them are expected to make it, but not all will have textbooks and many won't have breakfast.
STORM AGAINST MEAT CONTROLS SWEEPS NATION - Bare Shelves ‘in Midst of Plenty’ Fans Wrath: Controversies stirred by the steadily increasing shortage of meat reached a crescendo today as meat counters across the nation remained bare and livestock receipts at principal markets were only half those or a year ago.
38 MILE WINDS LASH CHICAGO; 4 ARE INJURED - Damage by 80 MPH Gusts in Lake Area: Sustained winds of 38 miles an hour and 50 mile gusts injured at least four persons in the Chicago area and caused considerable damage here and in the Great Lakes region yesterday.
CUBS WIN, 13-3; THEN LOSE; 13-0; Pirates Come Back After Mauling in Opener: The Cubs, who want to finish in third place and the Pirates who don't want anything except to get away from it all as quickly as possible, shared and shared alike yesterday while going thru a double header, only parts of which were a reasonable facsimile of major league baseball.
CARDINALS STEP UP DRILLS FOR HOME INAUGURAL: The Chicago Cardinals stepped up the tempo of practice for their National Football league home inaugural with the Detroit Lions in Comiskey park next Monday night, with a rigorous two hour drill at 83d st. and Yates av. yesterday.
Birthdays: Barbara Walters (17), William Faulkner (49).
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Halsted St., looking north from 63rd St.; Sis and Dot; Bob Plant at center
Portrait Cold Wave kits were advertised as “Amazing! Sensational! COLD WAVE at home ... smarter (or smaller) than ever before ... Plastic Curlers ...”.
Met Sis after school and went down 63rd. It was real warm outside. Bought a pair of shoes.
At 6:00, Dave called and told me he couldn't possibly make it tonight, as much as he wanted to go. He had to stay at the lab and do some blood counts. He seemed to feel bad about it. Made a date for Friday night.
Sis and I then went down 63rd again. It was very damp out, so I bought a Portrait cold wave kit*.
Stopped in Parnell and sat with Bob Plant and Roy Creigan. Had a nice talk.
Got home and Bill Bardash called, so I had a long talk with him, too. He wanted a date for Fri. Sat. or Sun.”
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Comments:
Dot was at the Boston Store yesterday for “sales girl” training.
Dot's mom took a phone call from Bill Bardash on Tuesday.
*Updated: a few comments from readers below (thank you) about Dot's “Portrait cold wave kit”:
“I am assuming that [Dot] was referring to a home “perm” kit (where the girls/women could give themselves a permanent using a kit for do-it-yourself results). These are cold wave, as opposed to earlier versions that required heat (this last bit of info is from googling the “permanent wave kit” phrase ).
As a kid, many women of my generation were subjected to the smelly home perms of the 1950’s and 60’s. You wanted to do this when you could have windows open, believe me! The solution that was applied was just unbelievably stinky, but that’s what it needed to cause the necessary chemical reaction.
I remember commercials during the televised Miss America contests of the 1960’s. They would start giving someone a permanent (wave) at the beginning of the show, and by the end, the lovely woman had a perm that was the envy of all. Of course, commercials plugged the product all throughout the program.”
“When I read Portrait Cold Wave Kit, my brain went directly to perms, as a woman who has had many perms to make my flat hair have more body. I goggled it and sure enough that is what Dot bought. I think the word portrait was a marketing term as in “portrait” ready.”
“I would say that the Portrait cold wave kit is something your mom used to set her hair and since she mentioned the dampness, I would assume it was especially for hair that didn't do well in humidity.”
“From an ad for Walgreen's, 3960 W. Madison St., as published in a Chicago south side newspaper, The Garfieldian, Thursday, November 08, 1945:
‘DISTINCTIVE TOILETRIES: TONI COLD WAVE Kit– GIVE YOURSELF A PERMANENT’
Toni was also a big advertiser on the Arthur Godfrey radio show.”
Today's news:
Auto-Talkie Era Makes Its Debut in City - Phone in the Car: The auto-talkie era is just around the corner— and you, too, soon may hear the telephone ringing in your automobile. We heard it for the first time yesterday, cruising on Lake Shore dr., when the Illinois Bell Telephone company gave its first demonstration of the mobile telephone.
BOB HOPE'S NEW SHOW FOLLOWS FAMILIAR LINE: Bob Hope has returned to the air, minus Frances Langford and Skinnay Ennis, plus Desi Arnez and a Minneapolis songstress named Carol Richards who sings more like Miss Langford than Langford herself, at times. Vera Vague also is on hand as a regular this season.
A DARKENED CITY TRIES TO LOOK ON LIGHTER SIDE - If Strike Halts Work, It's a Holiday, Isn't It?: A million and a half Pittsburgh area people, accustomed for many years to enjoying artificial light simply by pressing buttons, today were learning how their grandparents managed in the gas light and kerosene lamp ages.
Women's Hats Boost Plumes to Peak Prices: Trends in women's hat decorations are having an inflationary effect on the bird market, Robert Bean, director of Brookfield zoo, commented yesterday as he announced the addition of a pair of Cape ostriches and two crowned cranes to the zoo's exhibits.
CUBS, BEATEN IN 16TH, TIED FOR 3rd PLACE: Because a couple of homers intervened just when they were ready to knock off work for the afternoon, the Cubs were forced to hang around for 16 innings yesterday and all they got for their patience was a 6 to 5 trimming from the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Birthdays: Pope Paul VI (49), T. S. Eliot (58).
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Dot; Vince and Sarah
Friday September 27 1946
“Stayed in during the afternoon.
Dave called at 5:00, and came at 7:30. I wore my black crepe skirt and melon blouse. We walked down to Parnell, had a Coke.
Then we came back home and listened to records. Later we went to 59th & Union, but couldn't find Vince and Sarah.
Came back home again. Danced a little, and he kissed me quite a lot. We went to Karson's and had a ham sandwich and a bottle of beer.
Came back, and sat on the front steps. He got my views on certain things, but he said that on a good/bad scale, that I wouldn't know what way to fall, and that if I drank enough, I'd be bad. He's getting amorous, but I asked him to promise to keep me good.”
Comments:
Sarah and Vince are Dave's sister and brother-in-law. Dot first met them on September 17th.
59th St. & Union Ave. is about four blocks from Dot's.
It's been a while since Dot mentioned Karson's, a restaurant or diner that evidently was often the place for bar-b-que beef sandwiches. I'm wondering if the very serious meat shortage has anything to do with opting for ham this time.
Today's news:
TRUMAN OK'S MEAT CONTROL - THERE ISN'T ANY FAMINE, IS ANSWER TO CLAMOR: Rejecting a unanimous demand by the Democratic national executive committee for immediate action to end the meat famine, President Truman today flatly refused to seek higher prices or removal of OPA controls on meat, asserting no famine exists.
BERLIN'S BREAD PRICE SLASHED TO $3.50 A LOAF: Prices for food, cigarets, and liquor on Berlin's notorious black market have tumbled in the last few months as much as 50 per cent for some items, but Berlin, isolated in the middle of soviet occupation, still remains the most expensive German city.
BRITISH TURN UP A WHALE OF AN IDEA FOR MEAT: British whalers, still huffy because Gen. MacArthur allowed the Japanese to resume whaling, today were fitting out three expeditions to leave next week for the Antarctic to bring oil home, and thousands of tons of whale steaks.
‘I MAY AS WELL GIVE UP’, KELLY SAYS IN CAPITAL: Foremost among Democratic lenders discussing the food situation in the capital tonight was Mayor Kelly of Chicago, who told reporters “things are chaotic” and “we are worried”.
AIR LINES PLAN ON WINTER USE OF 2 TERMINALS - Counting on Both Chicago and Douglas Bases: Representatives of the three largest commercial air lines flying into Chicago— American Airlines, Trans World Airline, and United Air Lines —yesterday informed Commissioner of Public Works Hewitt that they plan to use two terminal airports at Chicago next winter.
Cubs Win Home Final, 5-3; Draw 1,342,970 in Chicago: The Cubs closed their Wrigley field playhouse for the season yesterday, but— before snapping the lock —belted the Pirates between the eyes with a 5 to 3 decision made possible by a four run eighth inning. The concluding ceremonies were put on before 5,369 patrons.
Birthday: author Jim Thompson (40)
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Stratford theater; Dot and Dave
Saturday September 28 1946
“Got up at 10 and went down 63rd. Came back at noon.
Dave called at 5:30. In the evening, he came at 7:00, and we went to the Stratford and saw Janie Gets Married, and a stage show. Real good. Stopped in Tasty's, and had hamburgers and coffee.
Went to my house and played cards, and also listened to the Barn Dance, and then dance music.
We danced a lot and he treated me tenderly, but something was lacking. I felt awfully self-conscious in my light blue (corny) dress, and could've died. I looked gruesome in it. He left at 2:00.”
Comments:
Tasty's—the Tasty Eat Shop restaurant—was located at 454 W. 63rd St., phone number WE4859.
The trailer for Janie Gets Married
Today's news:
THIS IS NIGHT TO TURN CLOCK BACK ONE HOUR
THE HOG-CALLING HABERDASHER IN THE WHITE HOUSE: [President Truman] now claims hog calling as an additional qualification for directing the destinies of the nation. He cites his boyhood experiences on a Missouri farm to prove that he knows what he is talking about when he says there isn't going to be a meat famine.
There's Always an Omelet for Meatless Days: There may be no pork chops, but there's omelet! A puffy, fluffy omelet which you may fill with mushrooms, chicken livers, creamed vegetables, or a fruit sauce. Making a good omelet is a skill developed by practice. The recipe is simple, but a careless cook's omelet can be ruined.
TELLS OF HIDING 2 NEGROES FROM TENNESSEE MOB - Act to End Lynchings, Says Witness: The only desire of the Negro community of near-by Columbia in the hours preceding the wounding of four city policemen there Feb. 25 was to protect the lives of a Negro mother and her son so Maury county would have no more “social lynchings”.
MEDAL OF HONOR IS AWARDED TO AN ABSENT HERO: John P. Fardy, corporal, United States marine corps, was awarded the congressional medal of honor last night in a quiet ceremony in the Roosevelt room of the Morrison hotel.
Cubs Drop Cardinals Into Tie with Dodgers - CHICAGO ROUTS HOWIE POLLET IN 7-2 BATTLE: The Cardinals' half-game lead over Brooklyn vanished like fresh meat on the counter tonight. The Cubs walloped them, 7 to 2, and the thumping elevated the Dodgers, who didn't play anything but their radios, into a tic for first place.
WHITE SOX NEAR 4TH PLACE; BEAT BROWNS, 7-3, 8-3; One-Half Game Out of First Division: The White Sox climbed within a half game of fourth place in the American league race yesterday by defeating the St. Louis Browns, 7 to 3, and 8 to 3, before a crowd of 3,609. The Sox home attendance now totals 982,609.
Birthday: Brigitte Bardot (12)
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Dot; Dave
Sunday September 29 1946
“Very cool today. I put my navy suit and light blue sweater on.
Dave came at 7:00 and we took a car to [aunt] Dot and [uncle] George's. Played poker and had a very good time. I had four highballs and practically fell on my face. Dave seemed to have fun, too.
We ate and left at 12:15. Got home and Sis and Edie, Clussy and Gordon were in the frontroom. Dave came in for awhile.
They left, and Dave and I had a nice chat. He seemed to care for me a great deal tonight. He'd kiss me and say ‘Whew!’, and then hug me again. Not that I minded tho.
He left at 2:00. (Don called).”
Comments:
I'm not sure exactly who Edie, Clussy and Gordon are. They might be neighbors, or some of Sis' friends.
A highball is usually made with whiskey and ginger ale, over ice, but there are variations.
Today's news:
ATOM REPORT FINDS VIGILANCE A ‘MUST’IN USES FOR PEACE; Safeguards Needed at Every Step: The Scientific and Technical Committee of the United Nations Atomic Energy Commission warned today that “appropriate safeguards” [be] taken at each stage in the production of atomic energy for peacetime use.
Athens Welcomes King George II; Premier Resigns, Is Reappointed: King George II of the Hellenes returned to Athens today to resume his reign after five and a half years of exile.
TRUMAN DECLARES ‘PERMANENT PEACE’ IS GOAL OF NATION: President Truman told members of the Cadet Corps of the United States Military Academy today that he believed “we are going to have a permanent peace.”
POLICE CHIEF BONDED IN BEATING OF NEGRO: Lynwood L. Shull, police chief of Batesburg [South Carolina], posted a $2,000 bond today for his appearance in the United States District Court here Nov. 4 to answer charges of violating the civil rights of Isaac Woodard Jr., Negro soldier.
DEVICE RECORDS OPINION - General Electric Meter Operates Through Dials in Audience: An electrical device which meaures the composite opinion of a group of persons in a business conference or a small audience witnessing motion pictures or radio shows was described today. Each member in a group secretly records the nature and strength of his opinion by moving a pointer on a dial which he holds.
ELECTRONIC WATCH READY: RCA announced today that it now is producing in quantities, for civilian use in science and industry, an electronic stop-watch, [making] possible extremely high-speed, automatic-counting operations as well as precise measurement of split-second time intervals.
In the evening, Dave called at 7:00 and asked me what I was doing, and asked if I'd invite him over.
Dave came, and we played poker and gin rummy. Had a swell time. Had some coffee, too. He tossed some pennies down the front of my dress. I won a quarter from him.
We sat in the frontroom for awhile. I had such a miserable cold that kissing was out of the question. We had a nice talk tho, and because of no kissing, etc., I seemed to care for him more.”
Today's news:
FIRST HEAVY FROST EXPECTED IN CHICAGO AREA EARLY TODAY
Expect Spring to Bring First Flow of Beef: The first appreciable increase in the supply of beef will not come until late in February or early in March, cattlemen said here today.
LEGION WARNED OF LEFTIST RUSH FOR FM OUTLETS; 16 Radio Permits Asked, Report Asserts: A warning that left wing organizations are turning to frequency modulation radio stations to spread their propaganda was placed before the Americanism committee of the American Legion today on the eve of the opening of the 28th annual convention.
No Hutson, So Bears Wallop Packers, 30-7; Off with a Dash!: The Green Bay Packers missed a fellow named Hutson today. So did the Bears —in a delightful sort of way. The result was a 30 to 7 crusher over the men of the north before 25,000 fans in the National Football league opener for both clubs.
Card Eleven Faces Lions in Night Game: Professional football activities in Chicago tonight will shift to Comiskey park, where the Chicago Cardinals will open their home season against the Detroit Lions. The game will mark the opening of the National league season for Detroit. It will be the socond contest for the Cardinals.
FELLER STRIKES OUT FIVE TIGERS; SETS NEW MARK! - Bob Now Has 348 Total; Indians Win, 4-1: Bob Feller of the Cleveland Indians laid claim to one of the oldest major league records today by fanning five Detroit Tigers to run his season total to 348, five more than were officially credited to Rube Waddell of the Philadelphia Athletics in 1904.
Browns Beat Sox in Final Game, 8 to 7: The White Sox reverted to type yesterday for their final flourish in the American league race. They piled up a 7 to 0 lead against the Browns and then suddenly lost baseball consciousness, the Browns ripping up the Comiskey park pathways in the late innings for an 8 to 7 victory.
