The Wamego Reporter, Wamego, Pottawatomie County, Kansas, Thursday, September 1, 1932, column of “The Louisville Reporter”
Mrs. H. R. Chilcott – How little we can foresee the results of what so often appears at the time as a great misfortune. Thirty-one years ago when Mrs. Flora Chilcott became an invalid, it must have seemed to herself, her husband and to her little family that life was going very badly indeed. And had they known of the long years of illness ahead, the future might have looked very dark. But it appears that the same spirit that kept her keenly interested in the life of the world and of those around her, and the strong will power to guide in a helpful way, was also a part of her children. The home was a happy center to which through the years the children as they married and their families gravitated naturally and lovingly.
From her bed Mrs. Chilcott taught to her daughters the fine needlework which she herself did so well, also taught them to cook. And as the son and five daughters married and went out from the home, the influence went out to encourage them in the making of happy homes for their families.
As long as Mrs. Chilcott was not too ill for company, Mr. and Mrs. Chilcott and Miss Merle Chilcott, who all through the years faithfully, lovingly and conscientiously cared for the mother and tried to fill her place in the duties of the home, welcomed the young people and others who enjoyed going there.
Mrs. Chilcott had a fine mind, which appreciated good literature, a trait shared by her family. One granddaughter, Miss Dorothy Amerine, has been writing for eastern magazines for years. Mrs. Chilcott was interested in radio, and had many radio friends. The invalid was especially interested in current events and political questions. We enjoyed talking with her and listening to her comments, sometimes serious and sometimes witty, on the subjects she discussed, and to watch her quick laugh at some thought that amused her.
A busy thirty-one years, sewing, crocheting, knitting, reading, using her nimble mind, nimble fingers and happy in having her thoughtful children and their families remembering her as they always did, and always coming back to the home through the years.
And now she is gone and they miss her. And will continue to miss her. But the influence of the loved mother is a part of the lives of all, and is something which will remain a part of them. A cherished memory.