Introduction

This history involves five families to some extent, and other families too, such as our mother's family, which we saw much less of and visited to a lesser extent after we became adults.

It is not easy to go into detail except in those areas in which 1 was personally involved. So it may seem to the reader that it is more a history of my life. This is not intentional, and I include our own family as much as I can which will seem pitifully little after we became adults.

I have made many trips to Illinois, the West Coast of British Columbia, Tacoma, Washington and even one to Sweden to visit relatives. This has been a hi-light in my life to make and keep contact with so many families. Now in retirement, I find it interesting and rewarding to record the events we have experienced and pass it on to the following generations that they might see, compare and realize how different economics and society are today. The physical work load has decreased some, but the management portion has increased, and I am not a bit sure that people are any happier than they were many years ago. Bigger is supposed to be better, but only when it is successful. It is also much worse when failure is experienced. This statement applies to all levels of society, from the individual laborer to the most senior governments.

I have lived my whole adult life believing you are just as important an individual as I am. I have tried to give and to help whenever it was possible. I have no desire to be wealthy. I have seen too many wealthy people who are arrogant and selfish although not all of them are. I also recognize that I have made many mistakes.

I hope that all who read this history will find it interesting and entertaining.

Sincerely,

Clarence W. Truman

P.S. It may not all be in quite as close consecutive order as I would like it to be, but 1 believe that is understandable at this late date.

C.W.T.

Drawing of Prairie Crocus by Margaret Truman Hauglum.