Friday JohnKu – Cherished Blog Event

~ John W. Howell

Typically I run my Friday JohnKu today, but since I’m participating in the Cherished Blogfest, I will post a JohnKu next week. The cherished Blogfest is a three-day event where bloggers write about a cherished item. If you would like to participate or just want more information here is the link to the site.

https://cherishedblogfest.wordpress.com/2016/06/26/cherished-blogfest-2016/

Cherished Blogfest

My Cherished item is a gold pocket watch that my grandfather carried. He was quite a man. Although he died in 1932, long before I was born, his legacy has continued through the years. Like all the men in our family, his name was John and unlike all the men in our family, he became a surgeon. He practiced medicine until his death. He was a field surgeon during World War I and suffered mustard gas wounds but managed a medical career in spite of his ailment. He is interred in Arlington National cemetary in recognition of his service. His watch is a treasured and cherished item.

Grandfather's watch

Here is the view of the face. The watch was made in Elgin Illinois by the Elgin National Watch Company in 1889. These watches were made on a production line and were very popular. Although not the cheapest they were not the most expensive either. The fact that it is over 100 years old is a tribute to the craftsmanship.

Grandfather's watch

Here is a picture of his headstone which carries his permanent military rank of Major and his home state of Missouri.

Grandfather's headstone

69 thoughts on “Friday JohnKu – Cherished Blog Event”

  4. The watch is in amazing shape, John. Thank you for sharing the photos and a little of your grandfather’s story with us. And, thank you for stepping out of the normal routine to join us today. Reading stories like this is making me feel good. Dan – cohost – cbf16

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  5. John, that is a great treasure. Your grandfather was quite a guy. That mustard gas was a terrible weapon. The fact your grandfather carried on with his medical work regardless speaks to his dedication. It’s not only lovely but outstandingly durable. Thanks for sharing. 🙂 — Suzanne

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  10. I just fell in love with that watch. I love antiques and I love watches and I would surely want to have such thing in my collection. As a co-host, I thank you for being the part of the Cherished Blogfest and I hope you’re having a great time meeting new and existing blog friends.

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  12. I love old pocket watches. I used to carry one around years ago (not an heirloom — a new one, simply because I like the look), but how special it must be to have one that belonged to your grandfather. My maternal grandfather also saw service in France in WWI. I own a rosary of his, which is a very precious item to me. Very nice post, John.

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  13. You are fortunate to have such a treasured part of your grandfather’s life. It is beautiful and belonged to an exceptional person evidently. Thanks for sharing his story!

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  14. Hi I am Cheryl, one of the co hosts for CBF 2016. What a lovely gift of your grandfather’s for you to have inherited. It is in amazing condition. I am certain he would be proud that it has been loved for so long. I actually have several Elgin watches from my mother who is now deceased. They seem to last forever….

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  19. I love old pocket watches. I have one grandfather’s watch. Back when I used to shave, I used the other grandfather’s straight razor. Those old Elgins were good watches. I miss mechanical watches. The battery operated ones don’t have the same soul. Great sentiment along with the watch.

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  23. John, my father had an Elgin watch similar to your grandfather’s. My brother has it now, so I’m not able to research its age. That is a beautiful watch and a wonderful remembrance of your grandfather. Thanks for sharing.

    Mary J
    CBF Cohost

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    1. Thank you for stopping by. If your brother will open the watch (the rear compartment) there will be a serial number on the workings. You can go to Google and search on “Elgin Pocket watch” or “Elgin National Watch Company” and you will find a place to search the watch by serial number. (Maybe brother will do it for you.) 🙂

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