This book has providence back to the 1800's most likely since I was at the farm sale for a man known as Miles Vecellius in rural Britt, Iowa in the 1970's. The same sale had an original "1 of 999' Union issued Officer's Buckle (brass with German silver wreath) and belt issued in 1861, which I bought for $1 inside a WW2 helmet wrapped up with a rubber band. I sold the helmet for 10 bucks to a guy who missed the item and wouldn't leave me alone until I sold him the helmet. Today, the buckle and belt is in the $2,000's in value, save the fact I cleaned it.... so waiting another 100 years for it to tarnish up like it was the day I bought it.

Miles was sent to the rest home in Britt and the sale sold off his families land, heirlooms, etc. This book was treasured all the years I have owned it. Before children, it graced our coffee table. After the kids, it has been locked away in safe, clean storage for 44 years! I attest the providence means something. I bought civil war union infantry cartridge belts at the same sale, so Miles had kept all these things I assume he inherited from his parents. The little Merry Christmas card is also precious from friends George and Cora Raw.