Perhaps resilience can best describe how pioneers met with their everyday challenges and experiences. Such was the case for mail carriers in the Siuslaw Valley during the early1900’s. They were fearless individuals who traversed rough trails often during severe weather conditions to complete their deliveries. Routes included thick forested areas, rocky terrain and steep canyon paths barely wide enough to maneuver on horseback. Nonetheless, these early pioneers eagerly bid on contracts to deliver the mail as a source to supplement their income.
MARIA LOUISA (Gilbreth) CRUM
Born in 1842, Louisa and her siblings grew up on the Iowa homestead of her parents. These early years likely attributed to the strong work ethic she maintained throughout her life. At 15 years old, she married George Jacob Johnson, an Iowa farmer in 1857. During this marriage, she gave birth to their 12 children. Sadly, George passed away in 1882 from a lung condition due to a relapse of the measles. He was 51 years old.
During his illness, Louisa took over the mail delivery for Jacob. In the winter months she carried an ax, often using it to clear away fallen trees and debris from the trail. On horseback, she sometimes crossed the creek five times in a single day to safely pass or negotiate the deep and swift water. It is said as a mail carrier, she missed delivery just one day, and was late only once.
Moving past whatever challenge or hardship they faced, pioneers such as Louisa Crum demonstrated courage, determination, and grit. Hers is a story of inspiration, resilience and celebration.
Jacob Freeman Crum. Clearwater Record. April 19, 1929: pg. 1
Memorial, George Jacob Johnson. Find a Grave. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/149808945/george-jacob-johnson.
Obituary [M. Louisa Gilbreth]. Clearwater Record. August 10, 1928: pg 1.
Plucky woman Carries Mail During Winter. The Siuslaw Pilot. April 2, 1913: pg. 1.
U.S. Cemetery Records. 1862-1999. Ancestry.com Iowa. Works Project Administration Project; Washington D.C.