DEAR SUN SPOTS: This Memorial Day, I have been reflecting on loved ones who have passed on, including my dad, Robert L. Albert, who died March 14, 2009.
Recently, I was reading a story he started about Barkerville School, which he attended as a young child. I believe my dad submitted a query on March 6, 2008, asking, “Does anybody remember Barkerville School?” I would like to follow up on this request to see if I could obtain a copy of his submission and ask if there were any responses to dad’s question.
It would mean so much to obtain this query along with any responses. I would like to honor my father’s memory by sharing this information with my kids, sister and nieces. I appreciate any assistance or information you could send my way. Thank you! — Brenda Pierce, [email protected]
ANSWER: With a little help from a colleague in the newsroom, Sun Spots was able to locate your father’s original letter, but no responses showed up in the search.
His letter from March 5, 2008, reads:
Dear Sun Spots: I am writing a story about a small two-room schoolhouse that I attended as a kid, writing from a kid’s perspective, or as I can best remember it at the young age of 74. I write this story as a gift for my kids and grandkids, hoping they find some humor and enjoyment from it.
I am searching for anyone who may have pictures of Barkerville School, which is no longer standing, that was located at the north end of Main Street in Lewiston in an area referred to as Barkerville. I am also interested in pictures of the former Stetson’s IGA Store and Neadeau’s Barber Shop, which were located on the corner of Main Street and King Avenue. Pictures of the Fairgrounds, as the area once was, are also welcome.
I would be indebted to anyone who is willing to help. Although I was born and raised on King Avenue and spent my first years at school at Barkerville School, I now live at 60 Lynn Drive, Caribou, ME 04736 after making a career in the U.S. Air Force. My phone number is 498-4007. — Robert L. “Bob” Albert, Caribou
You might try visiting the Androscoggin Historical Society. They have limited hours, so call 784-0586 or 786-2129 to make sure someone is there to assist you. Or perhaps a reader will be able to provide you with some memories or photos.
DEAR SUN SPOTS: I wish to hear from anyone in the area who knew Lt. Joseph A.L. Fournier USMC or his family.
Fournier was a native of Lewiston. He enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1939 and saw combat in the Pacific as a Marine Raider. He was commissioned from the enlisted ranks and served as commander, G Company, 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment on Peleliu in September 1944. He was killed in action on Sept. 19 and awarded a posthumous Navy Cross, the nation’s second highest award for valor.
My friend and neighbor, Frank Pomroy, was a 19-year-old Marine who served with Lt. Fournier and was sharing a foxhole with him just before he was killed. Frank would like to meet family members and friends of the lieutenant and share his memories.
If anyone can help us make that connection, please contact me via my email address: [email protected]. Thank you. — Joseph F. Collins, U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, retired, Topsfield
DEAR SUN SPOTS: I am looking for any information concerning the Mexico High School Class of 1951 and possible 60th class reunion this year. Thank you. — Jean Muse, Rumford
This column is for you, our readers. It is for your questions and comments. There are only two rules: You must write to the column and sign your name (we won’t use it if you ask us not to). Please include your phone number. Letters will not be returned or answered by mail, and telephone calls will not be accepted. Your letters will appear as quickly as space allows. Address them to Sun Spots, P.O. Box 4400, Lewiston, ME 04243-4400. Inquiries can also be e-mailed to [email protected].
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