Pie suppers were always important events in the “good ol’ days” of the one-room school. Proceeds were often used to provide Christmas treats for everyone in the district as well as all who had brought pies or boxes. And the rivalry was great! Even in the middle of the depression, boxes went for the outlandish sums of eight and ten dollars. The teacher had the unique position of having her box be in demand, and her box brought the highest price, at least mine did that year. Another feature was the box of chocolates for the most popular girl. This was regarded as an honor indeed, that is, if the boy friends provided the funds, and not father or brothers! Then there was a jar of pickles for the most love-sick couple, sometimes bona fide, and sometimes for two who just couldn’t abide each other. And last the bar of soap for the man with the dirtiest feet, something to be received with great, good humor, or get the name of being a poor sport.
Edith Thiessen
Collinsville, Oklahoma
Back in 1955 a call went out from the editors of the then Capper’s Weekly asking for readers to send in articles on true pioneers. Hundreds of letters came pouring in from early settlers and their children, many now in their 80s and 90s, and from grandchildren of settlers, all with tales to tell. So many articles were received that a decision was made to create a book, and in 1956, the first My Folks title – My Folks Came in a Covered Wagon – hit the shelves. Nine other books have since been published in the My Folks series, all filled to the brim with true tales from Capper’s readers, and we are proud to make those stories available to our growing online community.
