My Grandparent's America

My maternal Grandfather { William Sayre ) was born in New Jersey in 1890 and lived until 1983. He was one of 6 children 5 boys and 1 girl.. I know his family arrived from England somewhere around 1620. My Grandfathers brothers were named Thomas, Harry, Robert and Walter. His sister’s name was Mary. My maternal Grandmother( Lulu Siebel ) was born in New Jersey in 1892 and died 1960. Her family came from Germany. She had four sisters, three of which also married one of the Sayre men. I never knew my paternal Grandfather (William Benjamin) he died from influenza when my father was 3 years old. I only met my Paternal Grandmother once. My Father’s childhood was something he rarely talked about. He did stay in touch with an older sister who lived in the area.

My Grandparent’s America was very different then America today. When they were growing up, horses were still the main form of traveling. However, such things as telephones, cars, kitchen appliances, radio and superstores are here because of that generation. They were one of the most inventive ever. They also were one of the most productive. They built a great manufacturing base. That base was instrumental in winning World War Two and providing the comforts we have today. We are in danger of losing that manufacturing base today. They were also one the most prejudice generations ever. You stayed within your race, culture and religion. Catholics married Catholics, Protestants married Protestants, Jewish were not the most liked people in America and blacks were mainly kept in their own areas. Not a very pretty view of our Nation in the 20s .

They were more modest or puritan than today, but were in many ways more adventurist. My grandmother drove a car from New Jersey to Detroit so her friend could see her boyfriend. I have no idea how many flat tires they must have changed. They married young and everyone in the family worked. Most men were in their own business or worked in the family’s business until the manufacturing age started. My Grandfather’s business was food. He owned a Deli and butcher shop. My Mom was one the best salad makers I have known, because of working in their deli. Funny thing, my Daughter started her working career in a Deli in California.

The depression did change everything. At the same time Prohibition was passed. When everyone needed a drink, you couldn't buy one. Many families lived together to help support each other. On Sundays, most families got together for dinner. they shared last weeks experiences and made plans for the following week. Everyone contributed what they could. That period really brought families together. At the same time, A new generation was just growing up that became known as “The Greatest Generation”. They were raised with a strong work ethic and a love for this country that is a model for all of us.