Family Secrets — Sherry Derr-Wille

In the late 19th century, orphans became a ward of the county. When that happened to my grandmother, she was sold as a bond servant, setting the course of her life into motion. At the age of 18 the man who held her bond had taught her to read and write, be a good Christian woman, and the mysteries of housekeeping. Giving her a watch, a bible and $10 she was on her own for the first time since she'd been bonded at the age of three and a half. In the midst of the depression, my father found himself on his own at the age of twelve. His life was one of a little boy lost. Last but not least, is the way in which my family impacted my life. This is our story and one that would not survive if I didn't take the time to tell it.