When I saw the line, “advertised for a wife” in the “100 Years Ago” column I knew something was up. It all started with 3 blurbs from the Frederick News Post in the space of 3 weeks:
A Civil War vet looks for a wife? Really? I think I actually laughed out loud. Then a week later:
Indeed! I wonder if Mrs. Davis found out how he felt about her from the paper?! That might have been awkward. If that had been me, I would have been miffed!
Then again, on September 16, 2012 in the “100 Years Ago” column:
Ha! This guy has some gumption! Seriously… after 3 blurbs I wanted to know “Who IS this guy? Who is JOHN TROUT? Why in the world was he looking for a wife in the paper?” And “Really, this is 1912??” I was consumed with wanting to know more about him! Who knew the Frederick News Post was the original e-harmony.com?
Let me just say I am an avid family historian, affectionately referred to as a “nerd” by my co-workers for my constant interest in ancestry. At least, I think it’s affectionate (?) My favorite TV show is “Who Do You Think You Are?”, and I won’t make plans if that show is on. So….off to the Maryland Room I went to look at original copies of the articles. I had to find out more about this guy.
Campfire Chronicles 