Several years ago, thanks to my blog, I was reconnected with some cousins that I’d not been in touch with for many years. Over the weekend, one of those cousins, Carol, sent me a photo by FB messenger. Carol’s dad, Stanley, was my mom’s youngest brother.
This was the photo Carol sent.
Rose May (Mae) Ellis was my maternal grandmother. She operated a little country store for many years, including during my childhood. It was located about a half mile from my home, so Mom and I visited her every day. I have SO many memories of time spent not only in Grandma’s living quarters at the rear of the building, but also (an especially) in that store front. It was a meeting place for Grandma’s twelve adult children and their spouses and children.
And I wager that those keys in the photo above fit this old white Ford that was the last car she owned. (That’s my late cousin, Lona, on the left and me on the right.)
Here’s another view. I’m surprised the photographer could get a good picture of us two busy little girls.
But there is a question, for which we most likely will never have an answer: Grandma lived in Virginia, Uncle Stanley lived in Pennsylvania. Why would he have her keys? (Most likely, she just had the one set to the car). My only guess is that these were found in her belongings after she passed away, and Uncle Stanley kept them as a remembrance of her.
I just love family treasures, and I’m glad that Carol does, too.
~These Days Of Mine~
these days of mine 
Priceless
Family history found – Yes, Priceless. Just look at the memories stirred for you.
That’s very special. I’m thinking your guess about the keys is spot on. It’s the type of thing we keep when we find them going through someone else’s effects. I’m glad I kept the keys I found in my Dad’s belongings – turned out it fit his military footlocker and it held an abundance of treasures I would have never seen otherwise. Love the photos of you and Lona!
Pam
This is wonderful! The pictures of you and Lona, the keys and remembrances of your grandmother’s store. That would be heaven to any little girl or boy!
Very, very cool … sometimes keepsakes are the keys to unlocking memories ; )
So fun! What a great set of photos & story!
I have always loved that photo of you and Lona . Only God knew you both would be good friends of mine. The keys were truly a treasure too. ❤
I loved what Marshall said above! So true. I bet those keys were an amazing keepsake for your uncle. The photos of you and your cousin are just adorable. You have the best memories and treasures.