You never know what you’ll find in your attic. When my parents moved to Hawaii for my father’s position as head of school, they left several cardboard boxes of their belongings. I never touched them or thought about them until my daughter came home from school and said she needed a photo of me from my elementary school years. I remembered my mother said the stored boxes were mainly old books and family albums.
The very next day I went to my attic in search of the photo albums and that is when I discovered a small, old leather box. I took the box downstairs so that I could see it better, and feel its rough, slightly tattered leather covering. I knew one thing for sure; this was old. I opened it and the first thing I saw was a small empty envelope with writing on the backside. It said, “In memory of my dear Husband Michael J Burke. The keepsakes of his father. I love you Michael with all my heart and God bless you. Your Wife, Ada.” I was touched by this sentiment even though I still had no idea who these people were.
I delved further into the tiny box and found three tin pictures. They were in good condition even though they were somewhat rusted and dark. I looked closely at one photo of a man sitting in a chair, wearing a Union Army uniform. Who is he? Is this box really from the Civil War time period? There was also a photo of a toddler. I wondered if the baby and the soldier were related.
At this point I became intrigued. I rushed to learn more. Under the tin photos I found a pile of miniature-sized letters. They were not in envelopes, just stacked in a neat pile on top of each other. I unfolded one slowly and carefully. To my surprise the letter was legible! In fact, the handwriting was very neat and the cursive words were in a perfect line. I scanned down and saw that this man, Florence Burke, was writing to his wife and children. I continued reading and to my shock, the second sentence mentioned his wife’s name: Ellen! Wait, that‘s my name! What an amazing coincidence I thought. I finished reading the sweet letter and the last line again struck a familiar chord to me. It said, “Please tell Michael and Jerry to mind you and give baby girl a cuddle from an absent father.” I could not help but relate to this family because I, too, have two older boys and a much younger daughter.
I placed the letter on the table and immediately called my parents in Hawaii. My father answered and I spilled out the news of finding the box and asked where it came from. My father slowly explained that he received them from his grandfather, Michael Burke. But that the letters were written by Michael’s father, Florence Burke.
My father provided me with a brief history of our family tree, saying that he was named after his grandfather Michael, and that I was named after his great grandmother, Ellen. I was pleased that I had found real letters from the Civil War, but what made the discovery even more profound to me was knowing that I was related to the soldier and his family.
After learning this, I read the letters thoroughly with a much deeper appreciation. I couldn’t help but feel a connection to Ellen and Florence, and their children. As I read each letter and as the dates passed from month to month, I found myself rooting for them, hoping Florence would survive the battles, praying the children would remain strong and healthy, and hoping that Ellen could manage on her own. I became obsessed with the letters and I could see their story form in my mind. I spent the next few years researching their pasts, travelling to Ireland, meeting with historians, and finding their names on ship logs and deeds.
I knew these images would forever haunt me unless I wrote them down and told their story. Theirs was a lifetime of unimaginable challenges, but the Burke’s persevered and never lost their faith in God or each other. They were plain Irish Immigrants, one family among thousands struggling to find their place in a newly adopted country during a time of national strife. To me, however, they were heroes. And family. I wanted to share their courageous story.
Cindy Hickey says
May 20, 2015 at 12:46 pmI am so excited about the book because I can’t wait to learn more about the Burke Family and their struggles and triumphs.
Gianna Palermino says
May 20, 2015 at 1:18 pmI am in the middle of reading an advanced copy of this book , can’t put it down! What an amazing story, great writing, you really get to know the characters and feel for their plight, places you right in that time period.
Janice Baker says
May 20, 2015 at 3:14 pmWhat an interesting find! Can just imagine how excited you were to delve into the letters and then to want to share this story with everyone. That this is actually your family history makes it all the more intriguing–can’t wait to read the book!
Liam Kelley says
May 20, 2015 at 3:16 pmAmazing way to spark your writing passion! I can’t wait to see the final story once you are published. Please keep me posted! I’ll be first in line to read it!
James Blant says
May 20, 2015 at 3:34 pmWow. Great post, very inspirational. I think I will search my attic to see what it can bring me too. Congrats on the book, and good luck with everything!
Amy G says
May 20, 2015 at 3:45 pmI am looking forward to reading this book and learning more about Ireland and the Civil War. Florence, another one of those names that switched from male to female overtime.
Denise W says
May 20, 2015 at 9:20 pmI have been following Ellen over the years with her infatuation with finding these letters and telling Florence & Ellen Burke’s Story. Ellen A. has not only shared her Great, Great Grandfather’s personal trials, bravery, hardships & faithful love, but has also given us a very insightful piece of history in her book. History that is a foundation to our Nation and who we all are as Americans. Over the past few years, Ellen has passionately traveled to Ireland, met and befriended a Historian from Florence Burke’s home town, she has researched the Potato Famine, Ireland, Irish Immigration & the Civil War and handed it to us in this wonderful book! This book pulls you in with the wonderful & descriptive characters as she tells their story.
Ellen alden says
May 21, 2015 at 10:00 amThank you Denise, for your kind words. You have been a huge supporter over these past three years and I appreciate it very much.
Kathleen W says
May 21, 2015 at 4:41 pmEllen Alden has done an amazing job. Her character development is so strong that I feel like I know the Burkes personally. As I read, I find myself rooting for Florence, Ellen and their whole family. Beautifully written, heartbreaking and captivating, it is definitely a book you won’t want to put down.
Carrie says
May 22, 2015 at 2:39 pmI can’t wait to read this book! It sounds like the perfect summer read. I am excited to follow this family’s courageous journey while learning about Ireland during this important time in history. My book club will love it!
Karen Driscoll says
May 21, 2015 at 9:59 pmVery excited to read this book. I remember seeing these letters and pictures in the Alden’s house. This is a great part of history and I know Ellen’s book is going to be amazing.
Lara Devaney says
May 22, 2015 at 7:31 amI could not put this book down…I needed to find out if the family would be reunited at the end of the war. There were many unexpected twists that kept me wanting more. The book was obviously well researched as the details made me feel like I was there at that time. I look forward to reading more that this fine writer has to share.
Desiree M says
May 23, 2015 at 8:51 pmThis description is heartfelt and the authors passion clearly comes across. Sounds like a great read. Im looking forward to learning more about the character, the history, and the journey!
Krista Martin says
May 24, 2015 at 9:44 pmI am looking forward to meeting Florence, Ellen and their family in this incredible work. I have witnessed the author’s genuine excitement about the story as she uncovered it. I can’t wait to go back in time to what was a pivotal point in American history, and relive the trials and tribulations of the journey to America, the Civil War and the years surrounding through the eyes of these engaging characters.
Madeline Aldrich says
May 26, 2015 at 7:42 pmI can’t wait until this book is published!
Anne W says
May 26, 2015 at 9:57 pmI read the advanced copy of this book and absolutely loved the characters and their story. Ellen does a beautiful job describing the struggles and sacrifices Irish immigrants made in the U.S. during the 1800’s and the heartwarming way a Massachusetts community comes together to support and sustain each other during the devastation of the Civil War.
Ben Didsburt says
May 27, 2015 at 12:20 pmWhat an amazing find! Can’t wait to read more!
Jessica DiGiorgio says
May 27, 2015 at 1:32 pmI am looking for a great historical fiction novel! Can’t wait to meet Florence and discuss with my book club.
sarah Brennan says
May 27, 2015 at 3:26 pmAwesome! Cant wait to see it published!
Sarah Whitehead says
May 27, 2015 at 3:37 pmI am days away from summer vaca and NEED a copy of this book… How will I find out what happens to Ellen and Florence? Ellen, give us more!!
Catherine Aldrich says
May 27, 2015 at 3:55 pmI have read preliminary versions of the book and the story and characters are great!! So proud of my sis-can’t wait to get a copy of the official published book!!!
Lisa Hansen says
May 27, 2015 at 8:32 pmCongratulations Ellen, what a wonderful accomplishment after all of your hard work! Can’t wait to read it, when is the book signing! Love Lisa
Katy Burke says
May 28, 2015 at 4:36 pmI’m not a big history fan, but I can’t wait to read Ellen’s first book! I know I’m not only going to learn some history but I’m going to get a wonderful story too. I can’t wait for the book signing!
Michelle H says
May 30, 2015 at 10:27 pmWhat a fascinating premise for your book, Ellen! i am looking forward to following the story through the letters of your ancestors. I can’t wait to get a hard copy in my hands and read it this summer!
Alyson Veneto says
May 31, 2015 at 7:51 amEllen – I am so intrigued by just reading through your website! I have no doubt your writing style will bring this family story to great life. I know its been an incredible journey for you to create this book and I look forward to diving into the journey of Florence and the life challenges he and his immediate family faced. Thank you for sharing something so close to you, as I know it will touch so many!
Melissa Albert says
May 31, 2015 at 11:14 amThe story of finding that box of letters in your own attic is incredible! What an incredible treasure. The fact that you were inspired to write a book based on the letters feels like fate. I am in the middle of reading it and it’s a wonderful story!
Emily says
May 31, 2015 at 12:47 pmI can’t wait to read this book! I love Civil War Stories they are so interesting to read!
Megan says
May 31, 2015 at 10:03 pmI have just finished reading an advanced copy of Ellen Alden’s Florence Burke. This is a book I couldn’t put down – in fact, I ignored the family and sat reading it every opportunity I got! I particularly enjoy reading Historical novels and this one did not disappoint… Ellen Burke was an incredibly strong character and I couldn’t help but try and put myself in her position – she was truly inspiring! Florence was a courageous man – thanks Ellen E for sharing the story of your family hero with me! I knew very little about the American Civil War as I am from (and live) in New Zealand, but this book has given me a thirst to learn more about American history.
Look forward to seeing your book in print!
Julian B. says
June 1, 2015 at 5:44 pmI can’t wait to read this book! The Civil War is my favorite topic to teach my students!
Kristin Gorrie says
June 1, 2015 at 6:28 pmI am so excited for Ellen Alden and this incredible accomplishment of not only writing her first book, but also writing one that is so important to her and the history of her family. We often forget that not that many generations ago, our ancestors came to this young country from all over the globe in search of a better life and to pursue the American Dream. Ellen has beautifully illustrated her great, great grandparent’s attempt at achieving this dream.
Ellen, I hope you’ve had fun during what was probably at times a very tough and arduous process. But bravo to you for getting this amazing story told. Congratulations!!!!
Also – I love your web site!
Evelyn L Caron says
June 17, 2015 at 10:17 pmEllen,
I am a big fan of historical fiction, and this novel does not disappoint! I am currently reading an advanced copy of this well-written novel loaded with history and a wonderful story to tell. What an accomplishment ! It must be so satisfying to transform your family’s rich past into a piece of literature that we can all learn from and enjoy. Well done, my friend!
Margarita says
June 22, 2015 at 2:02 pmI can’t wait to read this book and learn more about the history of a family during such difficult times. Sound like a great book.
MaryKate Bronder says
June 22, 2015 at 11:33 pmEllen is a thorough and sophisticated writer and this book is sure to impress.
Nancy Cramer says
June 24, 2015 at 1:45 amEllen, I can not wait to read this. I love historical fiction and this subject sounds amazing. What fun! So proud of you!
Ellen Alden says
June 24, 2015 at 9:06 amHi Nancy, thanks for your comment! I am so appreciative of the support and encouragement I am receiving from my friends. You rock!
Margaret Focke says
August 1, 2015 at 2:02 pmShould be a great book. Truth is nearly always better than fiction. Or at least a story that starts with a genuine source is! An inspired beginning to a tale and hopefully I’ll get to read the finished version soon.
Ellen Alden says
August 1, 2015 at 8:33 pmMargaret, thank you for your comment. I promise to get you a copy when the book gets into print. We Irish must stick together!