6/13/1924 after the preliminaries

Mr. F. J. Stancliff

Boston, Mass

To be opened June 13 at nite after the preliminaries.

Freddy boy, now that things are beginning to come your way.

And you’re “star” athlete in a school where athletes hold full sway,

And the girls and boys of the Institute all know you for what you are,

And will try to win your favor and will praise you to the stars.

And you’ve made a name for yourself, big boy, that folks respect and admire.

That will make you greatly in demand, for folks will ever tire.

Of doing things for those who appreciate what’s done.

And will love to help you all they can and give you all the fun

That belongs to a deserving boy – to one who can do things right,

Who can conquer despite all obstacles, and his own hard battles fight.

You’ve gained a lot by modesty, and by being staunch and true,

Your disposition can’t be beat – we’ll admit that, too.

You’ve won your place – just count the cost. How much is it worth?

You’ve made your friends, built up a name that’s respected on this Earth.

You’ll win more glory in the years to come and be happier every day,

For you’ve the makings of a more, you’re headed just that way.

But, Fred, when you’re on this road to success, and fame it within your call.

Remember us poor insignificant folks who can’t do things at all.

Who have to sit back and await our turn which perhaps will never come,

While you are upward climbing, we will fight for the smallest crumb

To live on, waiting for the better days” until our hair turns white,

But you will be up the ladder – looking toward the light.

But don’t forget your glory, there’s folks who think of you.

And hold your name and remembrance in hearts that are always true.

Some day when you’re successful, you’ll remember the friends that you made,

Back in your old college days, those memories that never fade.

Remember that there’s a heart beating true for a blue-eyed captain of track,

A heart that quickens when it hears the name that brings the memories back.

A girl who has tried to help you, and one who has likely been true blue,

Who has love you with all her heart and soul, who has trusted you faithfully, too.

Is waiting at home for the one whom she loves, the man who has won and been strong.

In the battle of life. He has honored himself, and is worthy of having her long

For him when far away, and is having success so that he

May prove worthy of them who have cared for him, and there the whole world may see.

There is one in the world who is really worth while, who can climb to the height of the heights,

And can gain all the things that are really worth while, who’s entitled to all the rights

Of a man. So, health, wealth and fame will follow you thru,

But remember that always a girl in the South is waiting for one who is true

To her, So, go forth in the world and climb high, and reach to the heights above,

Then return to the South and claim her as yours for you know it is mutual love.

F.M.P.

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6/11/1924 on top of the Woolworth Building

Dearest Florence,

In a very few minutes I will be leaving New York. I have been so busy seeing things I haven’t had time to do anything but when I get to Boston I probably will have more time.

Love Fred

On Postcard:

Was on top of the Woolworth Bldg today. 58 stories.


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6/11/1924 Think of me often

Dearest Boy,

Perhaps something about the country you are travelling in now will suggest the peace of this poem. I’m sure you could go to sleep on it.

Think of me often, big boy, and remember have a good time for us both.

Florence

On Envelope:

Open Wed June 11 not before and not until then

Monsieur Frederick Jacob Stancliffe

Somewhere on the globe


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6/10/24 Men are surely queerly built creatures

Tuesday, June 10, 1924

Hi there, old record breaking scout!

Are you going to set the world’s record in the discus throw held at Paris? Or maybe you’ll break all previous records and blossom forth like the Baylor freshman did! not!!! Well, here’s wishing you luck, and victory. Remember, there’s always one behind you pushing you as far on as she can.

I’ve been fighting the blue devils and myself lately. I simply couldn’t persuade myself that I wanted you to win and then go to Paris. I knew it wasn’t right for me to feel that way, and I determined to clear my thought: for you couldn’t possibly win with selfishness and blueness in my heart. So Bravo! I have called forth the unselfish love which has helped you win the other meets and can’t fail you in this one, and now we’re going to win!!!! You know, I had to adjust myself to being without you. I had to quit wishing and wishing for you, and I had to stop the ache in my heart.

You’ve gone for nobler, for better things, you’ve earned what you get and, my dearest boy, no one deserves it and is more worthy of it than you. Even Rice says so! and what is even more, Big Boy, what you are doing now will go down in history. For Rice Honor – Rice Glory! Come on, Rice is betting on Stancliff! All your friends are betting on you! People who have never  before been enthused over Rice athletics say they’ll “hand it to Stancliff!” He’ll put Rice on the map! and he’ll go across! Everyone is betting Stancliff! Your mother is so proud of her boy! And Mary – and oh! everyone admits Rice has never yet had a real athlete who counted! and they almost speak your name with awe! Everyone claims you! and after all, you’re really divided between 2 people, your mother and me! I won’t say that I’m proud of you, for, of course, I’m not at all, but never the less I’m waiting for my telegram and when I get it you’ll find whether I’m proud or not!

Incidentally, that same telegram either keeps me here or sends me away! Betty Buhler and Dimple have both invited me to visit them this summer. I told them I thought I would go to El Campo sometime during the summer and they said be sure and tell them when so that they could come get me and take me back to see them. Then from there, I’ll go to San Marcos, then San Antonio! I don’t look forward to this trip so violently much, for I believe I’d much rather have you here than to leave, but since you can’t be here, and since you’ve done things “For Rice’s Honor” why, I’ll just go ahead and be happy. After all, big boy, there’s all next year!!!

I went to see Betty and Dimple last nite, those are two of the sweetest girls I ever met. Mrs. Buhler knows Mother real well, they used to play together in Victoria, and Miss Dean remembers all Mother’s family. Also Miss Dean praised Stancliff up to the skies (and carried me with her) and she knows Stancliff has a marvelous chance to win, etc, etc, etc!!!! I say and listened, and thrilled and thrilled! ‘Cause I felt way down deep in my heart, I had done just a tiny bit toward helping him win so far, and that I was sponsor of the track team, and the Captain’s darling and inspiration, and after all, Fred needs me, and that is sweet to know. Heaven knows I’ve tried to love you with a sweet, pure, unselfish love, and I don’t think I’ve failed. So, Big Freddy boy, come on, let’s go! and win! Stancliff of Rice won’t disappoint us! Everybody says so. And Rice has never had another like him, and will never have another! For there’s never another like Fred, and there will never be another. They made the pattern then destroyed it and were satisfied with their work! And right they were. And, big boy, I’m not kidding or joking, or handing a line when I say that!

Yesterday, I went the picture show and saw the Pathe news. They showed scenes taken at the recent meet at Cambridge, but only pictures of the runners. Just think, If you win, you might have the movies snap your picture!!! My goodness!!!

Great honk, but it’s hot! Anyone would think I had just come out of a swim, and hadn’t dried off. Oh, it’s awful.

We went to my uncle’s yesterday and borrowed some of his clothes. Oh! man, such a boy as I’m going to make. We tried it all out last nite, laughed so much we were actually weak. Now, here’s the costume, white sport shoes (very sporty!) white flannel trousers (and oh boy, they fit!) a white shirt (with sleeves about 5 inches too big around, and much, much too long. Men are surely queerly built creatures) a real striking looking silk tie (and I can tie it, too, as you found out) a blue coat, and I’ll tell the world it fits! Couldn’t want better! We couldn’t find a straw hat that would look even natural on us, so I guess  we’ll compromise on a felt one. My hair will be slicked straight back and if I do say it myself, I don’t make a terribly ugly boy but it’s so plain that I’m a girl. Anybody could tell, by my walk, but mainly by my mop. I’m used to girl’s ways!But, say, you know I used to wish I was a boy. I used to say oh, if I was only a boy! Say, one nite of wearing collars and long sleeves will be more than enough! (Give me my sleeveless dresses!! and low necks! Those collars that nearly choke a person and coats! Great honk! Being a girl isn’t so all fired bad, after all. There are heaps of disadvantages but, I believe, I’ll take them and sleeveless dresses and no coats and great grief even tho boys do wear socks, Skirts fly yo be sure, but -oh-heck I’m glad I wasn’t born a boy. Now, if I could be a boy like you who could do something, maybe it wouldn’t be so bad, but gosh! to be a boy, and a nobody. I’ll take my life in girl’s clothing. Whew, We’re going to take some pictures and if I can I I’ll send you some! Oh! man, as a bot, I make the best golf club you ever saw!

Well, I guess I had better ring off. When you’re gone I spend half my time writing to you; when you’re here I spend about 1/4 of my time with you or talking to you, due either to studies or to – well track, or something. I wonder how it would feel to have you here with only your days taken up. Oh, my dear boy, I can’t imagine having more than a Sat nite date with you. But I fear me greatly that this summer shall pass, and next fall will come before Frederick Jacob Stancliff will return home from a few months of travel and fame across the bounding deep! But, Fred, old timer, I’m betting on you! I ask only one thing, that is, that you write to me every tinyest chance you get.

And remember whether you win or not, you’ve already put Rice on the map! and that we all love you tho you taste the fruits of victory or defeat, just come back to us the same old dear boy. But I am sure “For Rice’s Honor and Rice’s Glory, we will fight on” you with your strength, and me with my love and pride for you. Let’s go, big boy, we’ve done it before. We can do it again, can’t we.

With all the love in the world from the same old pal

Florence.

Forgot to tell you I was going to sport your medal around for a watch fob. Wish I had your little own or the Olympic medal, boy Howdy!

 

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The Athlete

If you have been following along, you know that Fred is on his way to Cambridge, Massachusetts for the 1924 Olympic trials in discus. He was an avid athlete which helped him get through college on a scholarship.

The newspaper photo in this image shows the difference between the classic pose shows in the Discobolus of Myron statue and the “current” stance circa 1924 that the discus throwers used. The form has evolved from 1924, of course, but at the time this stance was the most current and efficient method used.

Also in the picture is his trophy from the SW Texas track meet, his Rice University class of ’26 ring and varsity charm (I believe this used to be a ring as well, but was absconded by Florence for her charm bracelet at some point.)

A special thanks to stylist Robin Tucker for helping me on this shoot, it was a fun day going through mementos and keepsakes.

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6/10/1924 I am sending a few sweet kisses

June 10, 1924

My Darling Florence;

I suppose you think that I am never going to write you. But really Dear I have not had time. Since I have been gone I have been busy every minute. When I arrived here I found Mr and Mrs Heissman at the Hotel. The next day they moved and insisted I go stay with them. I can, and here I am. Also, they bought a new Marmon Car and have been taking me everywhere. They have been grand to me. The place now is down by the Hudson River. I am looking across the Hudson River now, into N.J. It is a wonderful sight to see.

We have not gone to the Bower yet. But I hope to soon.

The Elevated Railways and Subway are quite different than they are in Houston.

One several streets. They are carry people on elevated, then on street cars and autos on the ground. Then below the street the Subways. Then the people walk. Can you feature such crowds.

We drove thru the bright lights last nite. They are bright lights too.

Around the Theatre district the crowds are great (out of ink) I am going to see the Woolworth Bldg today.

I have taken a Bus Ride already. They are quite an experience.

I think that I will leave NYC tonite and go to Boston. I have had several work outs since I left Houston. I worked out at the Columbia U Stadium yesterday and will do the same today. Darling they are calling me for breakfast so I suppose I will have to go. But my Darling Florence I have you on my mind continually and just wishing that you could appreciate the beautiful sights that I am seeing.

So don’t forget that I love you all the more and will write you just as often as I possible can. I will probably have more time when I get to Cambridge so I will try to do better.

I am sending a few sweet kisses along with this to you Darling. I love you with all my heart and soul.

Lots and lots of love

Fred

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6/10/1924 here in New York safe and sound

June 10, 1924

My Darling Florence:

I am here in New York safe and sound. I stopped at Wash DC and worked out (141 ft) I must go to breakfast as Mr & Mrs Heissman are waiting for me. I will try to write real soon. Loads of Love

Fred

 

This will let you know that I am still thinking of you Darling. Sweet dreams and everything for you.

Heissmans have a car and will show me little ole NY. I will tell you all about it.

Lovingly,

Fred

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Pardon the delay…

I have been in the process of moving to another state and have fallen a bit behind in posting the letters.. not to worry, there are still MANY more to come and I will get back on track as soon as possible. Thanks for your patience and, as always, thanks for reading!

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6/9/1924 we were covered with coal cinders

Washington D.C.

Sunday, June 9, 1924

My Darling Florence;

At last I arrived this far  OK. Believe me it surely was a long journey. I was so tired when I got here. Riding for two days and two nights.

When we left New Orleans they started burning coal and when we woke up the next morning we were covered with coal cinders. Surely was a dirty ride up here. but finally got it off in a great big bath this morning. I wired La Rue and he met me at the station and I came on out here with him.

We traveled the place over today and saw more things. The Capitol, Treasure Bureau of Standards and National Museum and all things that are so very interesting. This is a very beautiful place. The Rolling country. So many hills, green trees and everything. I will tell you all about it when I get back

We ate in a Trisk Restaurant tonite. A nickel restaurant. You go in and whatever you see that you want well you get in. If it says 1 nickel, Drop 1 if 2 drop, etc. Then this nickel goes in a slot and a door opens and there you are. Pick it up and put it on your tray and run on and eat it. Did you ever see one. I didn’t either.

Say do you know that negroes sit in street cars with white people. Can you imagine anything like that. Big old black negroes sitting down with white people. Can’t help it tho’. I am sorry.

It is much cooler up here than in Houston. People are still wearing their spring clothes, vests and everything. I suppose my suit is rushing the season for them. But why should I worry.

I may go on to New York tomorrow, but will probably not go until Thursday as I want to work out here.

I do not know just what I’ll do yet.

Oh yes By the way. If you do not receive a package from me with certain limits after you get this letter, write to W. W. La Rue 3125 Newark St. Wash DC? You will be surprised. Oh yes. I meant to write you while I was on the train but it was pretty hard to keep the pen directed just where I wanted it so I did not.

“Dutchy” Wilford came as far as NC with me so you see it was not so terribly lonesome and Darling do you know that I appreciated your way of communication. Your ideas and system is fine. Who would ever have thought of such. I surely did appreciate it. I am going to keep your plans, because I know I can appreciate them much more that way.

We went down to take some pictures today and will show you everything when I get back to Dear old Houston and to my Darling Florence.

When I told all of you good bye it was a mighty hard job to keep back the tears. I surely did feel bad. But I tried my best to keep back the tears. I will enjoy the trip, tho’. I suppose, but oh how I do wish that you were making it with me and I could enjoy it so much. Darling I just can’t write like I would like to. La Rue is talking to me but this will let you know that I haven’t forgotten you. Still more so when you see the little remembrance of little old Wash DC.

Loads of Love

Freddie

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6/9/24 just a thought

Just a thought from a girl who wants you to make good more than she wants anything else. Remember she loves you and will love you whether your trip proves victory or defeat.

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