A Little Window into 1932: Mr. Gwinn’s Mail

“We are inclosing herewith coupon No. 8 in connection with the above loan, showing interest of $44.25 and principal of $150.00.”

Come on in and pull up a chair, friends. I’ve been sorting through some old files today and found a little treasure I wanted to share with you all. It’s a simple business letter from way back on July 13, 1932, sent to a Mr. L. S. Gwinn over on 1st Avenue in Huntington. It’s funny how a single piece of mail can bring a whole era back to life, isn’t it?

The letter itself is a real beauty to hold. It’s typed out on sturdy, cream-colored paper that’s still in great shape after all these years. You can see the crisp lines where it was folded up to fit in an envelope, and there’s a big, red geometric stamp right in the center. It feels like you’re holding a tiny, tangible piece of a Huntington summer from nearly a century ago.

Now, this isn’t a long letter, but it tells an important story. It’s from the Greyling Realty Corporation, letting Mr. Gwinn know about a loan payment for $150 on the principal and $44.25 in interest. When you stop and think about it, 1932 was right in the thick of the Great Depression. Seeing these numbers typed out so neatly reminds us that despite the hard times, folks here were still working hard and keeping their promises to one another.

I find so much heart in these everyday records. They remind us that history is more than just dates and wars; it’s about our neighbors, their homes, and the quiet ways they kept things going for the next generation. It’s a small snapshot of the resilience that’s always been a part of our community here in West Virginia, showing us that we’ve always known how to weather a storm together.

Original Transcription

July 13, 1932.

Mr. L. S. Gwinn,
2726 – 1st Ave.,
Huntington, W. Va.

In re: MS 20620 Gwinn

Dear Sir:

We are inclosing herewith coupon No. 8 in connection
with the above loan, showing interest of $44.25 and principal
of $150.00.

Kindly acknowledge receipt of the above by signing and
returning to us attached copy of this letter.

Yours very truly,

GREYLING REALTY CORPORATION,

Local Manager.

EM/LW
Incs.

Registered.

Received the above this _ day of July, 1932.

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(Sign here) .