My letter began with, “Dear Mr. Barnes” unfortunately, I didn’t save a copy of my letter nor did the recipient. Now for the beginning. About 1996, I used a genealogy book, The Genealogy of Thomas Barnes of Hartford, Connecticut, and was so happy to discover that my ancestors were listed in the book, with a source! It was for the marriage of ESTHER BARNES and NATHANIEL BISHOP of Immediately, I wrote the author a letter, since his address was printed in the book. Within days, I received a reply. It seemed he was more excited than me. Why? He was born and brought up in my home town. Even though he now lives in
When I decided to write about the letter, his book and our meetings, I contacted him and his wonderful wife, Edna. Edna replied back, “As far as we can determine, it looks as if we first met in October 1997 at the Library. I remember when you came bouncing in all enthused. It was such a pleasure to meet you. Also, we believe that Fred has visited with you in person four or five times. He has visited with you twice by himself. In August 2009, I returned back to CA earlier than Fred so he met with you and did some additional visiting with relatives and "old" classmates. He also was able to see you when he went back to his 50th High School Class Reunion in 2001. When we both went back for his 55th High School Reunion in 2006 you met us in Andover
This wonderful friendship developed because of a simple letter. In addition, Fred is also my 8th cousin, but it feels like a 1st cousin with both of them. They are both members of my local genealogy club, long-distance from California.
