A Glimpse into the Timber Woods of 1892

“Hoping you will be able to make a promp sale to a good advantage”

Step back in time with me for a moment to April of 1892. I’ve been holding a little piece of our local history in my hands today, and it is just remarkable how much life is packed into a single sheet of paper. This letter, written by W. D. Lee to Mr. Laban Gwinn, is more than just business; it is a tiny window into the hard-working days of Meadow Creek, West Virginia. The paper is yellowed, like a well-loved book, and you can see the steady, careful hand of a man who spent his days thinking about hardwood lumber and staves on this page of lined stationery.

Now, Mr. Lee was not just being difficult when he wrote this. He had been feeling under the weather, which delayed his trip out to the ridges to look at some timber. Once he finally got his strength back and took a good look at the land, he had to be honest with his neighbor. He found that the Oak on those ridges was of a poor quality, and he knew from his own experience that the Poplar was not quite right for his needs either. Even in a business deal, you can feel the politeness of the era, as he ends his note by sincerely wishing Mr. Gwinn better luck with another buyer.

Back then, the timber industry was the lifeblood of our mountains, and every tree counted. Seeing this letter reminds us that history is not just about big battles or famous names; it is about folks like us trying to make a living and being honest about the work. It teaches us that even when a deal falls through, a little kindness and a clear explanation go a long way. It is a humble reminder that our ancestors were building our community one ridge and one tree at a time.

Original Transcription

B. F. Martien.
Manufacturer of and Dealer in
Hardwood Lumber
and Staves,

Meadow Creek, W. Va., April 26 1892

Mr Laban Gwinn
Prince Wva

Dr Sir
Yours of 25 rec and contents
noted will say in reply have been Sick
and unable to look over your timber untell
yesterday. which I done carefully and
have come to the conclusion that I do not
want it at that Price under the circumst-
ances in which the tract is in
there is very little Oak on the ridges and
what there is is of a Poor quality and I
have Learned from Experience that the Poplar
up there is no good. Hoping you will be able
to make a promp sale to a good advantage

I Am Yours Truly
W. D. Lee