Friday, July 11, 2008

The Letter



July 11, 2008

Yesterday I came upon a sacred letter. Yes, it is a fragile treasure. Written 101 years ago by my paternal Great Grandfather to his dear daughter Catherine, it is an heirloom. Upon the urging of my niece and family historian, Kristin, I scanned it for her and I’m sure that it will help further her research as she lovingly explores our family’s ancestry.

I have often said that my paternal relatives are priests and teachers. It was my Grandfather's wish that my Father would become a priest. Fate intervened when my Grandfather died when Dad had just turned thirteen years old. Strange to imagine that one might not have been born.

It continues to amaze me when I ponder this heritage. Another interesting fact is that until fairly recently there was a Keveny Memorial Academy in Cohoes, NY. As a retired school teacher, thirty-six years in the classroom, there is something very thrilling about knowing that a school once bore your name.

I look forward to learning more about such a rich legacy one that deserves to be acknowledged and revered.

Please note that the photograph is of Catherine, a teacher and her brother Charles, a priest.