Contributed by Kathleen Haynes
Contact Myrtle Bridges August 13, 2008
West Durham, NC
July 30, 1902
Miss Sue Tate
Morganton, NC
Dear Sue,
I cannot resist the inclination to write to you at this time. Words seem so inadequate
to express the sympathy one feels for a friend in such sorrow as yours is. Having been sorely
tried myself I know how to feel for you and with you. I have thought of you many times of late.
May God grant you grace to bear up under this sorrow, and give you strength to do all that
rests afore you. With love, believe me to be your sincere friend,
Bessie S. Leak*
*On Dec 2, 1891 Bessie S[medes] Leak applied to The Department of State at Washington
for a passport for herself,
to be accompanied by Bennett Smedes. She stated she was born at Raleigh, NC the 27th day of June 1853.
Her present place of residence is Burlington, Alamance Co, NC. Bessie is described as being 5' 6", broad
forehead, blue eyes, rather pug nose, thick lips, round chin, brown
hair, fair complexion, and a full face. Wit. W A Erwin
The 1900 Census of Durham, Durham Co., NC shows Bessie S. Leak, sister-in-law, 46, wd., is living
with W. A. Erwin 43, Sarah L. Erwin 37; Bessie S. 8; William A. Erwin 4; & Sarah L. Erwin 2 yrs.
Source: Immigration Recs. - Census - Bridges
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