Uncovering a Century-Old Love Story: The Quest to Reconnect Families Through Lost Letters
In a captivating narrative that bridges New Jersey, California’s San Francisco Bay Area, and the quaint community of Strathmore, a remarkable story of love and historical exploration has recently come to light. Wendi Shaw, a passionate letter enthusiast based in New Jersey, has embarked on a heartwarming quest that not only revives the romantic sentiments of the past but also seeks to reconnect families separated by time and circumstance.
Shaw’s unique hobby involves scouring thrift stores and online marketplaces for old letters, particularly those imbued with the essence of love. Her diligent efforts transcend mere collection; she actively researches the families of the correspondents, an endeavor that has yielded significant success thanks to the wealth of information available via genealogical websites.
Recently, Shaw’s search led her to a dusty, rusty tin box, which contained a trove of love letters penned in the 1920s and 1930s. Written by Arthur Daniel Olsen—a man from San Francisco—to his girlfriend and later wife, Leoti Buck from Strathmore, these letters provide a window into a profound romantic relationship that flourished almost a century ago. Arthur and Leoti’s journey culminated in their marriage in 1922, after which they established their lives together in San Francisco.
The sentimental contents of the tin box did not stop at letters. Among the memorabilia was the couple’s wedding invitation, further enriching Shaw’s project of capturing their love story. In her recent postings on social media, Shaw outlined her intention to organize the letters chronologically in a binder, thereby preserving the narrative of their relationship.
The letters reveal a deep affection, with Arthur frequently sending flowers to Leoti and expressing his unwavering love through endearing nicknames. He referred to her as “sweetheart” and “love princess,” while playfully calling himself “your prince.” Their bond produced two children, Patricia and Daniel Olsen, and brought together a family history marked by the legacy of love.
As part of her effort to revive the Olsen family’s story, Shaw has reached out to the community through the Facebook group “Strathmore Our Past,” seeking assistance in locating any descendants of Arthur and Leoti. Those who have information regarding their family are encouraged to contact NBC Bay Area via email at bayareaproud@nbcbayarea.com.
This tale underscores the timeless nature of love and the enduring impact of personal histories on modern lives. Shaw’s dedication to uncovering the past not only celebrates the romance between Arthur and Leoti but also invites us all to reflect on the stories that connect us across generations and geography.
