Email from Daddy, 6/7/23: Shuman/Schumann; Lawyer; Electric train

Hi Vickie Lynn,

     I haven't been into my emails for a few days but am pleased to find some from you with results of your research.  The articles make fascinating reading. 

Here are a few comments.  I don't know the reason for the misspelling of my grandfather's name, but can make a guess.  Dad mentioned a few times over the years that during World War One, many people in this country in this country who had German names changed the spelling.  They were trying to avoid the ill feeling against those of German ancestry, which was a real problem.   For example, Captain Eddie Rickenbacker, the top US flying ace of the war and future head of Eastern Air Lines, changed his spelling from an even more German spelling.  

     In connection with grandfather being a lawyer, Dad said that there were fewer requirements for that in those days, not like attending college extra years to obtain a law degree.  But it still was an accomplishment.

     As to the electric train, dad said inter-urban train lines sprang up around the country to link various cities.  Grandfather invested one, I think originating at Indianapolis.  As automobiles came into widespread use the inter-urbans lost their popularity.  The one in which Grandfather invested failed, a financial blow to him.

     Won a prize for finding the most candy.....I'm still pretty good at it.