top of page
stripbg1.jpg
HM_logo_001.png
Writer's pictureS.P.

Temperance


As indicated in one of the notes saved in Lenora's collection of correspondence, her sister June was a member of the Woman's Christian Temperance Union. Tucked away in a bag of unrelated family postcards, a tattered songbook hid further evidence of a tension between sisters.

Based on her pledge card, June’s involvement with the WCTU predated the 18th Amendment. Was June canvassing for Prohibition? Did this spur Lenora's interest in tending bar? Or was that unrelated?

As a moonlighting speakeasy bartender and a temperance advocate living under the same roof, the Bowen sisters were certainly an odd couple. And while Lenora was clearly aware of June's affiliation, I can't help but wonder — did June know what her sister did for a living?

2 comments

2 Comments


On the note: Lorenia PR 20:1 Proverbs 20:1 says "wine is a mocker strong drink is a brawler and whoever is led to astray by it is not wise"

But then on the pledge card signed "nice try" EC 9:7 Ecclesiastes 9:7 says "go and eat your food and drink your wine with joy in your heart for God has already approved what you do"

So I'm thinking June knows Lenora is a bartender (PR 20:1) and Lenora responded to June's invite to pledge by (EC 9:7) as to turn down her offer to pledge.... Just my thoughts

Like
S.P.
S.P.
Oct 16, 2022
Replying to

Appreciate the depths of your research on this. I agree that they must represent some kind of appeal and response between the Bowen sisters, and your pulls are quite illuminating.

Like
bottom of page