This letter was given to me by my great aunt, Mary E. Lounsbery (1905-1993). It was typewritten (on an old typewriter) all in one paragraph and all in capital letters.

All comments in italics were added by me.

Root, P.O. Randall

Lounsbury (sic), Louis, Son of Louis, was born July 6, 1813, in the town of Onondaga, in the county of Onondaga. His father was a shoemaker, and carried on that business near the Indian reservation. Louis graduated from the Onondaga Academy and after leaving school entered the store of Orin Tyler, remaining about four years.

He then entered a drygoods store in Syracuse, continuing three years. He next taught writing schools for about four years in various towns, then ran a boat on the Erie Canal for several years. And about 1850 he located at Yatesville (actually where Randall is today; it's different from the current Yatesville, NY) and built a store, carrying on business for several years.

He was superintendent of the Erie Canal for three years, and then went to New York City and became Post Warden there from 1858 to 1885. He then returned to this county, where he has ever since resided. He was instrumental in getting the post office established here, and called the office Randall.

His son, John E., was the first postmaster. He married Mary A. Martin and had six children, five of whom survive: Louis E., Helen, Elizabeth, Thurlow Weed, Louise E., Darsey E., and John Edward, William B. and George H., the latter three deceased.Mr. Lounsbury has been a Republican ever since that party was organized.

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