Blount Library Blog

Treasures from the Averett Archives: Martha J. Nelson's Memory Book from 1923-24

Exactly 100 years ago this May, Danville resident Martha J. Nelson graduated from Averett College.  During her two years at the school, she kept materials for an unfinished 'memory book,' which were eventually donated to the University archives.

Containing signatures and well-wishes from many of her classmates, numerous photos, and a few other pieces of paper ephemera, the memory book provides a sweet and personal point of entry into an era of Averett that is otherwise documented primarily through surviving copies of the Pendulum yearbook.

A snapshot of Main Hall rising behind wet streets and snow-sagging trees (see below) graces the first page.  Immediately thereafter follows three pages of short goodbye messages.  Several are silly, like Velma Copland's "Have you a tomato sandwich?" and Gladys Mae Bowden's couplet "Tie a mule to a tree / Pull his tail and think of me."  Others reference Martha's personal life.  At least two, for example, mention Nelson's future husband, Charles Bradley: Martha Beecher Madry's poetic wish "In after years when this you see, I would will your name 'Mrs. C. Bradley' be", and Virginia Harris's textual squeal "Martha, I like Charlie!!"

In honor of its 100th anniversary, this nostalgic little volume will be on display in the small case on the main floor of Blount Library for the remainder of the month of March.