According to Joan’s family history, Elizabeth and Anna were orphans in 1904, and they were married from the orphanage to George and Collin. How the orphanage managed that transaction I have not been able to ascertain by research. Therefore, I am making up my own story about how it happened. Most girl orphans were sent out of the orphanage at age 14, into service in wealthy homes or onto the street. My fictional Mrs. Emerson believes that marriage is a safer option and tries her best to find husbands for her orphan girls.
The photo above is of a real 1904 bride and groom, getting married at the St. Louis World’s Fair, atop the communication tower. They don’t look too happy about it, so I like to imagine they are marrying just to rescue the bride from the orphanage. A very popular place to get married at the Fair was the Ferris Wheel, and you can bet that George, showman that he is, will choose to wed Elizabeth there. Stay tuned for that thrilling event.
As of today, I have been writing for 28 days of the 30-day NaNoWriMo challenge. It is Thanksgiving, and it is also my birthday! I have plenty to give thanks for: my life, my writing, and all the people who have encouraged me along the way. Thank you all!
