The Peratt and Houchen Families
I can’t be sure but I believe that the items pictured below are the contents of Norris Long Houchens’ pockets at the time of his death. These could also just be random items of his but I came to this conclusion based upon the fact that they were all contained together and the date of…Read more
This was within Harold and Laura’s items and tools. It could simply be a mirror that they liked and used or it could have belonged to one of their parents and held onto as a keepsake. There are no markings or indications of how old it could be. Heirloom Disclaimer – I have done my…Read more
This knife was in the same box as the previous knife but it came through Norris’ wife, Maggie’s, family, belonging to her mother, Anne Augusta “Gusta” (Hill) Beaty. The short-lived Barnsley Brothers company from Monett, Missouri was in existence from 1898-1906 and they made gorgeous knives which have held their value. This pocket knife pattern…Read more
I’ve come now to one of the most treasured and heart-touching items in the collection. I’ll have Ermine Houchens begin the story that she recounts in “Growing Up With the Country”: “My father, Norris Long Houchens, was born November 27, 1868, about 30 miles from Mammoth Cave. Kentucky. His mother, Sally Frances Wheeler Houchens, died…Read more
A beautiful, 14k gold ladies pocket watch that was worn as a brooch. I believe that the brooch portion was probably sold independent of the watch, although they may have been purchased at the same time. The Leon Hirsch Watch Company made the case and the gear work for this watch which was made before…Read more
This vintage rolled gold plated watch was among Laura’s items. While dirty, it is still quite a beautiful piece. Heirloom Disclaimer – I have done my best to identify either the owner or purpose of an artifact based upon either direct knowledge, notes, or context. If unable to identify, I will provide as much information…Read more
This is a small, lapel brooch of Laura’s. Heirloom Disclaimer – I have done my best to identify either the owner or purpose of an artifact based upon either direct knowledge, notes, or context. If unable to identify, I will provide as much information about the item as I am able.
This is a pretty piece, even though it’s missing a few of the smaller diamonds. Laura must have worn it many times. Heirloom Disclaimer – I have done my best to identify either the owner or purpose of an artifact based upon either direct knowledge, notes, or context. If unable to identify, I will provide…Read more
Harold’s uncle John, Norris’ brother, writes with the latest news from Altus.
Uncle John Pieratt kept in touch with Laura and her siblings quite often.