At long last, the Ferrer children's residence at the Alabama Children's Home has come to a close. On 26 August 1901, Emma wrote to Wood with more detailed instructions on the collection of Olin, Vella, and Powell (not mentioned in this letter). She asked that word be sent to Mrs. B. W. Johnson in Meridian. This is Emma's sister-in-law, Ida Peters, wife of her brother, Benjamin.
Benjamin worked as a "restaurant keeper" in Meridian. We always wondered why Emma struggled to pay her own room and board when she had family in town. However, a quick glance at the 1900 U.S. Census likely holds the answer. That year, Benjamin's home housed he and his wife, their two children, Ida's mother, and two of her sisters. It seems there was no room at the inn.
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| 1900 U.S. Census, Meridian, MS |
For perspective, we'll note that 26 August 1901 was a Monday. According to date stamps on orphanage paperwork, Olin, Vella, and Powell were removed 3 days later, on Thursday, 29 August. Although Emma's letter indicates the remaining children (Annie Mae, Ruth, and Alice) will be sent for three weeks later, it's closer to five weeks before they are removed on 2 October 1901.
Emma mentions that Olin's job is set to begin only a few days after he arrives in Quitman. There will be no rest for the weary.
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