Avis Lenell Smith came into this world on November 24, 1921. She is the oldest child and daughter of Norval A. Smith and Beulah Frances Slaback. They lived in Viola, Wisconsin. As a young child, Avis attended Goose Creek School. Her parents farmed, but her father also worked part time for the county, I’m not sure if it was Richland or Vernon, as Viola is in both. This additional work on her father’s part, gave her parents the ability to provide shoes for her, even in the milder months.
Avis told me that when she was young, heavy rains would make the roads into town, impassible by car. Her father, Norval, would take Bonnie, their mare instead. Bonnie hated mud puddles! She would get to one in the washed out road, lower her head and try to slide Norval off, right into the puddle. I’m not sure she ever succeeded, but she always tried!
Avis also told me that when she was about 11 years old, she had a lot of responsibility. She and her siblings were children during the Great Depression. Her mother would spend the day working out in the fields during the busiest season. Avis would watch her three younger sisters and baby brother, plus make sure the noon meal was ready for the family and farm hands. A lot of responsibility for one so young, but good preparation for her adult years.
Avis attended Viola High School. She participated in the Jr. Class play, “The Mecklenburg Necklace”. She was Maria the Maid.
One spring, she attended a dance…