From Reminiscences of Alfred Duryee Guion comes the following quote:
One day I acquired from our washerwoman a little half breed Fox terrier pup which I named Spot. He was a bright little fellow and I taught him many tricks,, play dead, chase his tail, not touch the most tempting morsel held in front of him until I gave permission, beg, shake hands, speak, come to heel, stay put until I called, etc. He was quite a show off and one day I dressed him up in a little jacket and pants like a monkey, with a little hat, got out an old hand organ of my father’s that played music rolls, and with myself dressed as an organ grinder, called on several neighbors who did not recognize us at first and seemed to derive much amusement from the performance until Spots pants fell down and we were recognized.
Spot
Elsie May Duryee, Grandpa’s sister, with Spot.
Spot standing on hind legs
Spot with Elsie May Guion
Elsie and a friend with Spot
I believe Spot may have been a great companion for Grandpa after his father passed away. It seems that he always had a dog.
This coming week I will be posting letters written in late 1943. Ced is coming home for a visit which has everyone excited, especially Grandpa. He has not seen family members since June of 1940. Lad and Marian have been married for only about a month and the Army still has a surprise for them.
Judy Guion
Fun photos of a special dog.
Gallivanta – I believe Spot held a very special place in Grandpa’s heart.He was there when Grandpa needed a friend and confidant during a very trying time in his life – the death of his father when he was 15.