Another member of the family located a letter written from Prescott, AZ in 1901. So that narrows the search to a certain area.

Abion Howe had lived in Superior, Wisconsin with his family. Now that we know that he was in AZ in 1901, we're a bit confused,because he was listed as a resident of Superior, WI until 1906. Here is the text of the letter, which is being mailed to me by photocopy. Postmark is from Prescott.

Louilla Big June 24th 1901

Dear Emma,
It is almost four months since I heard a word from home. I have hoped I could be there long before this, but things have not come my way yet, but I hope they will soon. I expect every day I can Telegraph you money and will as soon
as I get it, but everything seems to be a delay. I hoped to be there the 4th. I have been at the mine in the Mayours (? sp?) waiting. I have every reason to believe I will be there in less than a month. I go back today to camp and shall not come out again till I come for good. It is 65 miles from Prescott. The nearest post office is 30 miles. Don't write till I either get there or you hear again. If you should write send to Jersey Lilly. Give love to all.

Albion

We are trying to identify some of the names mentioned in the above letter.What or who is Louilla Big? I can't find a mine by that name on the GNIS. Was the Jersey Lilly a hotel in Prescott? And to what does Albion refer when he says "mine in the Mayours" (handwriting was difficult to read, so spelling may be wrong)?

If any of this rings a bell with you, please email . Also, if you know ANYONE who has a good grasp of history of that region, we'd like to get in touch and ask some questions. Someone who knows the history of mines and mining camps in that region would be of great help.

Hoping to hear from you soon,

Marci Duryea
marcoise@wwa.com
Glen Ellyn, IL

Note: Mayours could be Mayer, AZ?