September 1, 1948 (continued)
After 3 days of teacher’s “institute” where we were indoctrinated with army lingo, “channels,” procedures, occupation policies, etc. seven of the original 11 [teachers] boarded the Mozart [train] again, arriving in Linz, Friday, August 27 at 2 a.m.
The Mozart Train. Ruth mentions this train several times in her diaries and letters.
The red carpet was really rolled out for us when we arrived in Linz. A Colonel and Captain welcomed us, the Army photographer took our pictures, a corps of privates and MP’s took care of our luggage and transported us to the Linzerhof
The Linzerhof Hotel
(hotel). Awaiting us there was a delicious repast of thick ham and tomato sandwiches, coffee, and a decorated cake with “Welcome to Linz” on it. Potted plants, flowers, and cookies were in our rooms. We got “acquainted” with the Army until four A.M., getting to bed just as the city came to life.
The next day a group of Army wives took us on a tour of the country and we were received by General Loyal Haynes, who talked with us at great length, giving us the Army’s whole-hearted support for the school programs. It seems that the General is interested in making the Linz school the finest one in all of the European theater! The elementary school here has been in operation for 2 years, but the high school is new. It’s going to take a lot of work to get it organized. At first I was disappointed at leaving Vienna, but now I realize it was the best thing that could have happened. One great advantage is that we are in the American zone and can “take off” on trips whenever we please.
The school building is very modern (one of the most modern in Austria), has many large windows, and is very large. It would compare very favorably with any school in the States. We have twice as much room as we need right now so there is plenty of room to expand.
We have already been invited to two teas and have met a number of the officer’s wives. They’re a fine group of people with a great deal of Linz Community spirit. That same spirit and support and cooperation is not present in either Vienna or Salzburg at the present time so we feel very fortunate to be in Linz, even tho the city itself is not very beautiful.
This is a bit of a fluff piece; it shows that Ruth is excited about her upcoming teaching adventure. I share this part of her letter for a couple reasons:
1. It shows how much she loves to talk about food; and
2. I really like to think that term “got acquainted with the army” means something a little scandalous happened. Perhaps she imbibed? Or flirted with some army boys? My aunt was always prim and proper when I knew her—I like to think she let loose a little bit. We will never know…
I tried to find out more about the school where she taught, but sadly, other than finding the obituary of a gentleman who attended the school in 1948-49, I was unsuccessful.
Next post, I follow Aunt Ruth to the “top of the world.” Her pictures will tell the story.
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