Total pages in book: 103
Estimated words: 97032 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 485(@200wpm)___ 388(@250wpm)___ 323(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 97032 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 485(@200wpm)___ 388(@250wpm)___ 323(@300wpm)
“What about the ruby that was found during the renovation of the mansion?” Amy asked.
“Women often sewed jewels into the hem of their garments to protect from thieves when traveling especially on long journeys. The ruby could have been part of Claire’s dowry but was never needed,” my mom suggested.
My phone rang and when I saw it was the church calling, I answered it.
“If you have time in about an hour, Pepper, I’d be only too glad to have you take a look at the documents,” Millie said after hellos were exchanged.
“I’ll be there,” I said and explained to my mom and Amy about the documents I thought would be good for the historical society to have and possibly display in the society’s museum that sat just off Main Street. A light bulb went off in my head. “I’ve been so focused on the Willow Mansion that I didn’t think about the Willow Lake Historical Society’s Museum. There could be relevant documents stored there.”
“I believe all the historical society documents are housed at the Willow Mansion since it is the main office of the society. The key to it is with the key for the mansion. We rarely open it to visitors since it needs work,” my mom said.
“Another thing that needs changing,” Amy chimed in.
“I wholeheartedly agree, Amy,” my mom said. “It was once the Mercantile, the heart of the town with everyone going there to get what they needed. It was also the social hub of the town, people gathering around to hear news from travelers.”
“It should be restored,” Amy said, her eyes gleaming which meant ideas were already crowding her head. “Local artisans could display some of their wares there and the historical society could sell sweatshirts, shirts, hats, totes with the name of the town sprawled across them. Framed pictures and documents of the town could be displayed on the walls. Oh, the possibilities are endless.”
“I love that idea,” my mom said. “It will bring more people to our many festivals and more revenue to the businesses. The only problem is that it will take money.”
“An incentive for me to keep digging and find that money Melvin stole from the historical society,” Amy said, determined. “I can meet you at the museum after you’re done at the church, Pepper. Text me when you’re headed there.”
“Sounds like a plan,” I said.
“I was impressed with the great job Millie did in storing the old documents,” I said, having called Ian as soon as I left the church. “She has them in folders in archival boxes and keeps them out of any sunlight. She told me she couldn’t let the town’s history turn to dust.”
“So, that foiled your plans to take photos,” Ian said.
“I couldn’t take the chance of the flash harming the documents. There is a treasure trove of information in the documents, names, dates, building materials. Ignatius was meticulous in keeping records. The historical society will be lucky to acquire them.”
“You’re going to need some expert advice on how to safely transport and display them.” Ian pointed out.
“And a legal document from the church donating them to the society.”
Ian laughed. “I can hear you smiling.”
“Millie volunteered to see to that, and she wants to join the historical society and handle the preservation and display of the documents. I couldn’t be more thrilled about that. She has fabulous organizational skills, and the historical society can use her expertise.”
“I’m glad to hear that, Pep, but why do I hear a bit of disappointment?”
“I asked if I could take some photos of the old section of the church, starting at the bottom, explaining that I wanted to document everything thoroughly.”
“From the disappointment I hear I take it she said no.”
“Not exactly. She told me that the basement steps are stone, and it’s damp down there and drafty leaving the steps slippery at times and lighting is bad so she feels it would be better that you were with me.”
“Impatient, are we?” Ian laughed again.
“See, you understand perfectly. It isn’t that I have to wait for you—”
Ian cut in. “It’s that you have to wait.”
“It’s scary that you know me so well.”
“I’ll call Millie and arrange a time since your schedule is more fluid than mine.”
“That would be great. I’ll make anytime work. One other thing, the Gibbons Mausoleum. Millie told me it was built not long after the Willow Mausoleum and that Ignatius Willow had it built for the family out of appreciation for all their dedication and hard work they did for the Willow family.”
“Or to secure a clear path to the church and a private entrance to his daughter’s tomb,” Ian suggested.
“I’m just pulling into the Willow Lake Historical Society’s Museum’s parking lot. Amy will be here soon. She’s just finishing up with a frantic phone call from one of her clients. I’ll call you when we’re done.”