Shared by Jay Cress (grandnephew)
Earl's mother, Margaret Cress, describes him born with no doctor present. She further describes only a midwife assisted in the birth and no birth certificate was filed. Joseph Earl was known as 'Earl' to avoid being confused with his father, Joseph Arthur. He moved with his family to 922 Osage Street, Manhattan, Riley, Kansas during the fall of 1908 at the age of two. He attended Bluemont Elementary School and Manhattan Junior High School, where he was promoted to Manhattan Senior High School May 1920. During his junior year in high school, his family moved to a larger home located at 1225 Claflin Road. Earl tells of at an early age, carrying'hod' filled with 'mud'during the construction of Waters Hall, the College of Architecture building at Kansas State College. He shares stories that he later helped his father with the construction of his store building at 1218 Moro Street. After graduating from Manhattan High School 22 May 1924, he attended Kansas State College. He enrolled at Kansas State College on 9 September 1924 studying Electrical Engineering. He was a member of the American Institute of Electrical Engineers (A.I.E.E) Society and YMCA while at Kansas State College. During June 1927, Earl met his future wife, Ruth Hopkins, at his birthday party. Ruth was brought by friends, Helen Graham and Lenore Cress, Earl's sister. Ruth was in Manhattan, attending Kansas State College summer session. Earl graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering 1 August 1928. After graduation, he enrolled at the University of Idaho in Moscow, Latah, Idaho September 1928, working toward a master's degree in Agriculture Engineering. Earl received his master's degree in Agriculture Engineering on 9 June 1930.
Earl and Ruth decided to marry at Ruth's parents' home, 213 Ashland Avenue, River Forest, Cook, Illinois 8 July 1930. They were married by Rex. A. Mitchell, maternal uncle of Ruth, and William Marbach, pastor of the River Forest Presbyterian Church. Ruth's sister, Marion May Hopkins, served as maid of honor while Donald Pierson,husband of Earl's sister (Lenore) sister-in-law (Helen), served as best man.They would make their home in Geneva, Ashtabula, Ohio. Earl was employed demonstrating and selling electricity to rural residents for the Cleveland Electrical Illuminating Company in Cleveland, Cuyahoga, Ohio from 10 June 1930 to September 1938. Earl and Ruth lived in Geneva, Ashtabula, Ohio at 407 east Main Street, 133 Walnut Street, 147 East Tibbetts Street, and 285 Grant Street. While living in Geneva, they had their only daughter, Rachael Jane on 4 September 1931. This was during the Great Depression when bartering was very helpful and often became a necessity. Earl and Ruth's daughter, Rachael, shared about paying for medical expenses, with the family doctor bringing vegetables and fruits by which she was being paid by her patients forRuth to can.Rachael continues to tell how the doctor and her first-grade teacher boarded at their house. Describing her mother, Ruth, cooking and serving them meals, sewing suits, and dresses, to pay for piano lessons, dance lessons, and household expenses. Earl was one of the few men who held a job and together they were able to avoid the "bread lines" of the time. Ruth was an accomplished seamstress, knitter, and gardener. During the depression and World War II years, she made jellies/jams and canned fruits and vegetables from the garden. She baked wonderful breads and pies.
In September of 1938, the family moved to California, hoping the drier air would help their daughter, Rachael, asthma. On the trip to California, stopping in River Forest, Cook, Illinois to see Ruth's parents, Marion and May Hopkins and then in Manhattan, Riley, Kansas to see Earl's parents, Joseph Arthur and Margaret Cress. Upon arrival in California, first living with Myrtle Simpson Hislop and John Hislop's house at 2640 Palm Place, South Gate, Los Angeles, California. Myrtle was Earl's mothers' sister. It was not long before Earl and family were living in their own place at State Street, Huntington Park, Los Angeles, California. Earl found work as a Salesman at Montgomery Ward, Huntington Park, Los Angeles, California then a Salesman at Reid's Electric, Monrovia, Los Angeles, California.
Earl's older sister, Lenore, and family wanted to move to California as they were living in New Jersey and seeking a warmer climate. The two families decided to rent a home together at 826 Brighton Avenue, Burbank, Los Angeles, California January 1939. It was cozy, as Lenore, husband Harold Batchelor, and their two sons, Gail and Jann joined Earl, Ruth, and daughter Rachel in one home. By September 1939 Earl, Ruth, and Rachel decided to rent an apartment at 1114 El Centro Street, South Pasadena, Los Angeles, California. Earl also started working for Los Angeles Wholesale Electric Company, selling wiring and lighting supplies as a traveling salesman on commission. He had a very large territory encompassing all of Los Angeles County and Orange County. Earl and Ruth opened an appliance store in Hermosa Beach, Los Angeles, California during 1939 also. The store was named Hermosa Electric and was located at 1034 Hermosa Avenue, Hermosa Beach, Los Angeles, California. Ruth operated the store during the week and Earl helps on the weekend. Earl volunteered as an Auxiliary Policeman during World War II air raid drills in South Pasadena. He was unarmed and served between 1939 and 1952.
Earl and Ruth purchased a home at 1713 Oxley Street, South Pasadena, Los Angeles, California during 1940. The family attended the Calvary Presbyterian Church, Freemont Street, South Pasadena, Los Angeles, California. Both Earl and Ruth sang in the church choir. Earl sang bass/baritone and Ruth Alto. For one of the church's annual Christmas pageants, he performed "We Three Kings Of Orient Are" as the king who bore gold to the Christ child. He also loved to sing with his barbershop quartet. His favorite song was 'Aura Lee'. Earl and Ruth were member of the Couples' Club at the church. Additionally, Ruth sang in the Oneonta Women's Lyric Club in South Pasadena.
Earl's younger brother, Jay, wanted to move to California, next. He and his family came and stayed a short time until they found a rental home at 1030 Cawston Street, South Pasadena, Los Angeles, California September 1945.
Earl's youngest brother, Robert, wanted to move to California next. After he retired from the Army 15 April 1946, Robert and his family stayed a short time before renting the home next door at 1711 Oxley Street, South Pasadena, Los Angeles, California.
Earl and Ruth purchased a home at 1821 Laurel Street, South Pasadena, Los Angeles, California during 1946. A few years later they purchased a building permit 11 May 1948, to build a cabin. The land was on leased forest land located at, Lot 7, 40233 Hill Ranch Road, Stetson Creek, Angelus Oaks, San Bernardino, California. Earl and Ruth choose to build an A-Frame cabin, with plans found in a Sunset Cabin Magazine. It began with a trench for the foundation being dug one summer and re-dug the next summer. Finally, the structure began to take shape with a kitchen, bedroom, and upstairs bunk room. The family used a chemical toilet in an outbuilding called "The Redwood Room" which was also used as a tool shed. A septic tank was added in the 1960s and a large living/dining room and bathroom were added in the early 1970's. All of these additions were in the original plans but didn't get built early on due to a shortage of time and money. Other members of the family helped throughout the construction and donated or made some of the furnishings.
Earl and Ruth wanted to live near the beach, so they sold their home in South Pasadena and initially renting a home at 302 31st Street, Hermosa Beach, Los Angeles, California during 1952. The following year, they would purchase a home at 1826 Manhattan Avenue, Hermosa Beach, Los Angeles, California. 1977 Earl retired from Los Angeles Wholesale Electric Company; Earl and Ruth sold the Hermosa Electric Business. In retirement, they owned an Airstream trailer jointly with Earl's younger brother, Robert. Earl and Ruth enjoyed traveling with the Airstream, especially on frequent trips north along the coast to Newport, Lincoln, Oregon, where they would park in the same R.V. park each time. While there, a visit the famous Mo's Restaurant for clam chowder was always a must, as well as taking home as much as the trailer freezer would hold. During 1979 they sold their Hermosa Beach home and relocated to 160 Ruth Ann Way, Arroyo Grande, San Luis Obispo, California into their first newly built home. No remodeling was necessary and they lived there for the rest of their lives.
Earl and Ruth enjoyed attending musicals and light operas, watching L. A. Laker's basketball, and going to their 'Cress-Built' cabin in the San Bernardino mountains.
Earl can be described as an accomplished carpenter, he remodeled kitchens, installing new appliances, cabinets, sinks, counters, etc., in his homes. He tore down and rebuilt a large bedroom at the rear of the Oxley Street house in South Pasadena. He renovated the kitchen and two bathrooms as well as adding paneling to all walls throughout the house in Hermosa Beach. Wiring and rewiring of all things electrical were also in his area of expertise. He fixed the wiring anywhere it was needed and put the wiring in the family cabin as it was being built. Earl was known for his sayings, such as: "Don't take any wooden nickels!", "You're just wasting your sweetness on the desert air!", "Bring it (a burp) up again and we'll vote on it!", "I only do it if I'm alone or with someone!", "Here's your hat, what's your hurry?", "Thank you too much!", "I'm glad you met me!" He was also known for his ever-ready questions for departing guests: "Have you checked your oil?"; "Do you have enough gas?; and "Have you got enough air in your tires?". Growing up, Earl had been taught reading fiction was a waste of time, one should only read the factual material. He rarely read anything except newspapers and The Readers' Digest. He didn't like to go to movies for the same reason. He also felt that all anyone needed was their family, friends were unnecessary. He had a large family who lived a busy life and they were enough for him. Earl worked very hard during all of his life. He was very dependable and honest to a fault! So honest, it cost him on his income taxes! He was an avid Republican and maintained a very conservative outlook on life. He was always warning everyone another depression was imminent!
Earl's mother, Margaret Cress, describes him born with no doctor present. She further describes only a midwife assisted in the birth and no birth certificate was filed. Joseph Earl was known as 'Earl' to avoid being confused with his father, Joseph Arthur. He moved with his family to 922 Osage Street, Manhattan, Riley, Kansas during the fall of 1908 at the age of two. He attended Bluemont Elementary School and Manhattan Junior High School, where he was promoted to Manhattan Senior High School May 1920. During his junior year in high school, his family moved to a larger home located at 1225 Claflin Road. Earl tells of at an early age, carrying'hod' filled with 'mud'during the construction of Waters Hall, the College of Architecture building at Kansas State College. He shares stories that he later helped his father with the construction of his store building at 1218 Moro Street. After graduating from Manhattan High School 22 May 1924, he attended Kansas State College. He enrolled at Kansas State College on 9 September 1924 studying Electrical Engineering. He was a member of the American Institute of Electrical Engineers (A.I.E.E) Society and YMCA while at Kansas State College. During June 1927, Earl met his future wife, Ruth Hopkins, at his birthday party. Ruth was brought by friends, Helen Graham and Lenore Cress, Earl's sister. Ruth was in Manhattan, attending Kansas State College summer session. Earl graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering 1 August 1928. After graduation, he enrolled at the University of Idaho in Moscow, Latah, Idaho September 1928, working toward a master's degree in Agriculture Engineering. Earl received his master's degree in Agriculture Engineering on 9 June 1930.
Earl and Ruth decided to marry at Ruth's parents' home, 213 Ashland Avenue, River Forest, Cook, Illinois 8 July 1930. They were married by Rex. A. Mitchell, maternal uncle of Ruth, and William Marbach, pastor of the River Forest Presbyterian Church. Ruth's sister, Marion May Hopkins, served as maid of honor while Donald Pierson,husband of Earl's sister (Lenore) sister-in-law (Helen), served as best man.They would make their home in Geneva, Ashtabula, Ohio. Earl was employed demonstrating and selling electricity to rural residents for the Cleveland Electrical Illuminating Company in Cleveland, Cuyahoga, Ohio from 10 June 1930 to September 1938. Earl and Ruth lived in Geneva, Ashtabula, Ohio at 407 east Main Street, 133 Walnut Street, 147 East Tibbetts Street, and 285 Grant Street. While living in Geneva, they had their only daughter, Rachael Jane on 4 September 1931. This was during the Great Depression when bartering was very helpful and often became a necessity. Earl and Ruth's daughter, Rachael, shared about paying for medical expenses, with the family doctor bringing vegetables and fruits by which she was being paid by her patients forRuth to can.Rachael continues to tell how the doctor and her first-grade teacher boarded at their house. Describing her mother, Ruth, cooking and serving them meals, sewing suits, and dresses, to pay for piano lessons, dance lessons, and household expenses. Earl was one of the few men who held a job and together they were able to avoid the "bread lines" of the time. Ruth was an accomplished seamstress, knitter, and gardener. During the depression and World War II years, she made jellies/jams and canned fruits and vegetables from the garden. She baked wonderful breads and pies.
In September of 1938, the family moved to California, hoping the drier air would help their daughter, Rachael, asthma. On the trip to California, stopping in River Forest, Cook, Illinois to see Ruth's parents, Marion and May Hopkins and then in Manhattan, Riley, Kansas to see Earl's parents, Joseph Arthur and Margaret Cress. Upon arrival in California, first living with Myrtle Simpson Hislop and John Hislop's house at 2640 Palm Place, South Gate, Los Angeles, California. Myrtle was Earl's mothers' sister. It was not long before Earl and family were living in their own place at State Street, Huntington Park, Los Angeles, California. Earl found work as a Salesman at Montgomery Ward, Huntington Park, Los Angeles, California then a Salesman at Reid's Electric, Monrovia, Los Angeles, California.
Earl's older sister, Lenore, and family wanted to move to California as they were living in New Jersey and seeking a warmer climate. The two families decided to rent a home together at 826 Brighton Avenue, Burbank, Los Angeles, California January 1939. It was cozy, as Lenore, husband Harold Batchelor, and their two sons, Gail and Jann joined Earl, Ruth, and daughter Rachel in one home. By September 1939 Earl, Ruth, and Rachel decided to rent an apartment at 1114 El Centro Street, South Pasadena, Los Angeles, California. Earl also started working for Los Angeles Wholesale Electric Company, selling wiring and lighting supplies as a traveling salesman on commission. He had a very large territory encompassing all of Los Angeles County and Orange County. Earl and Ruth opened an appliance store in Hermosa Beach, Los Angeles, California during 1939 also. The store was named Hermosa Electric and was located at 1034 Hermosa Avenue, Hermosa Beach, Los Angeles, California. Ruth operated the store during the week and Earl helps on the weekend. Earl volunteered as an Auxiliary Policeman during World War II air raid drills in South Pasadena. He was unarmed and served between 1939 and 1952.
Earl and Ruth purchased a home at 1713 Oxley Street, South Pasadena, Los Angeles, California during 1940. The family attended the Calvary Presbyterian Church, Freemont Street, South Pasadena, Los Angeles, California. Both Earl and Ruth sang in the church choir. Earl sang bass/baritone and Ruth Alto. For one of the church's annual Christmas pageants, he performed "We Three Kings Of Orient Are" as the king who bore gold to the Christ child. He also loved to sing with his barbershop quartet. His favorite song was 'Aura Lee'. Earl and Ruth were member of the Couples' Club at the church. Additionally, Ruth sang in the Oneonta Women's Lyric Club in South Pasadena.
Earl's younger brother, Jay, wanted to move to California, next. He and his family came and stayed a short time until they found a rental home at 1030 Cawston Street, South Pasadena, Los Angeles, California September 1945.
Earl's youngest brother, Robert, wanted to move to California next. After he retired from the Army 15 April 1946, Robert and his family stayed a short time before renting the home next door at 1711 Oxley Street, South Pasadena, Los Angeles, California.
Earl and Ruth purchased a home at 1821 Laurel Street, South Pasadena, Los Angeles, California during 1946. A few years later they purchased a building permit 11 May 1948, to build a cabin. The land was on leased forest land located at, Lot 7, 40233 Hill Ranch Road, Stetson Creek, Angelus Oaks, San Bernardino, California. Earl and Ruth choose to build an A-Frame cabin, with plans found in a Sunset Cabin Magazine. It began with a trench for the foundation being dug one summer and re-dug the next summer. Finally, the structure began to take shape with a kitchen, bedroom, and upstairs bunk room. The family used a chemical toilet in an outbuilding called "The Redwood Room" which was also used as a tool shed. A septic tank was added in the 1960s and a large living/dining room and bathroom were added in the early 1970's. All of these additions were in the original plans but didn't get built early on due to a shortage of time and money. Other members of the family helped throughout the construction and donated or made some of the furnishings.
Earl and Ruth wanted to live near the beach, so they sold their home in South Pasadena and initially renting a home at 302 31st Street, Hermosa Beach, Los Angeles, California during 1952. The following year, they would purchase a home at 1826 Manhattan Avenue, Hermosa Beach, Los Angeles, California. 1977 Earl retired from Los Angeles Wholesale Electric Company; Earl and Ruth sold the Hermosa Electric Business. In retirement, they owned an Airstream trailer jointly with Earl's younger brother, Robert. Earl and Ruth enjoyed traveling with the Airstream, especially on frequent trips north along the coast to Newport, Lincoln, Oregon, where they would park in the same R.V. park each time. While there, a visit the famous Mo's Restaurant for clam chowder was always a must, as well as taking home as much as the trailer freezer would hold. During 1979 they sold their Hermosa Beach home and relocated to 160 Ruth Ann Way, Arroyo Grande, San Luis Obispo, California into their first newly built home. No remodeling was necessary and they lived there for the rest of their lives.
Earl and Ruth enjoyed attending musicals and light operas, watching L. A. Laker's basketball, and going to their 'Cress-Built' cabin in the San Bernardino mountains.
Earl can be described as an accomplished carpenter, he remodeled kitchens, installing new appliances, cabinets, sinks, counters, etc., in his homes. He tore down and rebuilt a large bedroom at the rear of the Oxley Street house in South Pasadena. He renovated the kitchen and two bathrooms as well as adding paneling to all walls throughout the house in Hermosa Beach. Wiring and rewiring of all things electrical were also in his area of expertise. He fixed the wiring anywhere it was needed and put the wiring in the family cabin as it was being built. Earl was known for his sayings, such as: "Don't take any wooden nickels!", "You're just wasting your sweetness on the desert air!", "Bring it (a burp) up again and we'll vote on it!", "I only do it if I'm alone or with someone!", "Here's your hat, what's your hurry?", "Thank you too much!", "I'm glad you met me!" He was also known for his ever-ready questions for departing guests: "Have you checked your oil?"; "Do you have enough gas?; and "Have you got enough air in your tires?". Growing up, Earl had been taught reading fiction was a waste of time, one should only read the factual material. He rarely read anything except newspapers and The Readers' Digest. He didn't like to go to movies for the same reason. He also felt that all anyone needed was their family, friends were unnecessary. He had a large family who lived a busy life and they were enough for him. Earl worked very hard during all of his life. He was very dependable and honest to a fault! So honest, it cost him on his income taxes! He was an avid Republican and maintained a very conservative outlook on life. He was always warning everyone another depression was imminent!
Shared by Jay Cress (grandnephew)
Earl's mother, Margaret Cress, describes him born with no doctor present. She further describes only a midwife assisted in the birth and no birth certificate was filed. Joseph Earl was known as 'Earl' to avoid being confused with his father, Joseph Arthur. He moved with his family to 922 Osage Street, Manhattan, Riley, Kansas during the fall of 1908 at the age of two. He attended Bluemont Elementary School and Manhattan Junior High School, where he was promoted to Manhattan Senior High School May 1920. During his junior year in high school, his family moved to a larger home located at 1225 Claflin Road. Earl tells of at an early age, carrying'hod' filled with 'mud'during the construction of Waters Hall, the College of Architecture building at Kansas State College. He shares stories that he later helped his father with the construction of his store building at 1218 Moro Street. After graduating from Manhattan High School 22 May 1924, he attended Kansas State College. He enrolled at Kansas State College on 9 September 1924 studying Electrical Engineering. He was a member of the American Institute of Electrical Engineers (A.I.E.E) Society and YMCA while at Kansas State College. During June 1927, Earl met his future wife, Ruth Hopkins, at his birthday party. Ruth was brought by friends, Helen Graham and Lenore Cress, Earl's sister. Ruth was in Manhattan, attending Kansas State College summer session. Earl graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering 1 August 1928. After graduation, he enrolled at the University of Idaho in Moscow, Latah, Idaho September 1928, working toward a master's degree in Agriculture Engineering. Earl received his master's degree in Agriculture Engineering on 9 June 1930.
Earl and Ruth decided to marry at Ruth's parents' home, 213 Ashland Avenue, River Forest, Cook, Illinois 8 July 1930. They were married by Rex. A. Mitchell, maternal uncle of Ruth, and William Marbach, pastor of the River Forest Presbyterian Church. Ruth's sister, Marion May Hopkins, served as maid of honor while Donald Pierson,husband of Earl's sister (Lenore) sister-in-law (Helen), served as best man.They would make their home in Geneva, Ashtabula, Ohio. Earl was employed demonstrating and selling electricity to rural residents for the Cleveland Electrical Illuminating Company in Cleveland, Cuyahoga, Ohio from 10 June 1930 to September 1938. Earl and Ruth lived in Geneva, Ashtabula, Ohio at 407 east Main Street, 133 Walnut Street, 147 East Tibbetts Street, and 285 Grant Street. While living in Geneva, they had their only daughter, Rachael Jane on 4 September 1931. This was during the Great Depression when bartering was very helpful and often became a necessity. Earl and Ruth's daughter, Rachael, shared about paying for medical expenses, with the family doctor bringing vegetables and fruits by which she was being paid by her patients forRuth to can.Rachael continues to tell how the doctor and her first-grade teacher boarded at their house. Describing her mother, Ruth, cooking and serving them meals, sewing suits, and dresses, to pay for piano lessons, dance lessons, and household expenses. Earl was one of the few men who held a job and together they were able to avoid the "bread lines" of the time. Ruth was an accomplished seamstress, knitter, and gardener. During the depression and World War II years, she made jellies/jams and canned fruits and vegetables from the garden. She baked wonderful breads and pies.
In September of 1938, the family moved to California, hoping the drier air would help their daughter, Rachael, asthma. On the trip to California, stopping in River Forest, Cook, Illinois to see Ruth's parents, Marion and May Hopkins and then in Manhattan, Riley, Kansas to see Earl's parents, Joseph Arthur and Margaret Cress. Upon arrival in California, first living with Myrtle Simpson Hislop and John Hislop's house at 2640 Palm Place, South Gate, Los Angeles, California. Myrtle was Earl's mothers' sister. It was not long before Earl and family were living in their own place at State Street, Huntington Park, Los Angeles, California. Earl found work as a Salesman at Montgomery Ward, Huntington Park, Los Angeles, California then a Salesman at Reid's Electric, Monrovia, Los Angeles, California.
Earl's older sister, Lenore, and family wanted to move to California as they were living in New Jersey and seeking a warmer climate. The two families decided to rent a home together at 826 Brighton Avenue, Burbank, Los Angeles, California January 1939. It was cozy, as Lenore, husband Harold Batchelor, and their two sons, Gail and Jann joined Earl, Ruth, and daughter Rachel in one home. By September 1939 Earl, Ruth, and Rachel decided to rent an apartment at 1114 El Centro Street, South Pasadena, Los Angeles, California. Earl also started working for Los Angeles Wholesale Electric Company, selling wiring and lighting supplies as a traveling salesman on commission. He had a very large territory encompassing all of Los Angeles County and Orange County. Earl and Ruth opened an appliance store in Hermosa Beach, Los Angeles, California during 1939 also. The store was named Hermosa Electric and was located at 1034 Hermosa Avenue, Hermosa Beach, Los Angeles, California. Ruth operated the store during the week and Earl helps on the weekend. Earl volunteered as an Auxiliary Policeman during World War II air raid drills in South Pasadena. He was unarmed and served between 1939 and 1952.
Earl and Ruth purchased a home at 1713 Oxley Street, South Pasadena, Los Angeles, California during 1940. The family attended the Calvary Presbyterian Church, Freemont Street, South Pasadena, Los Angeles, California. Both Earl and Ruth sang in the church choir. Earl sang bass/baritone and Ruth Alto. For one of the church's annual Christmas pageants, he performed "We Three Kings Of Orient Are" as the king who bore gold to the Christ child. He also loved to sing with his barbershop quartet. His favorite song was 'Aura Lee'. Earl and Ruth were member of the Couples' Club at the church. Additionally, Ruth sang in the Oneonta Women's Lyric Club in South Pasadena.
Earl's younger brother, Jay, wanted to move to California, next. He and his family came and stayed a short time until they found a rental home at 1030 Cawston Street, South Pasadena, Los Angeles, California September 1945.
Earl's youngest brother, Robert, wanted to move to California next. After he retired from the Army 15 April 1946, Robert and his family stayed a short time before renting the home next door at 1711 Oxley Street, South Pasadena, Los Angeles, California.
Earl and Ruth purchased a home at 1821 Laurel Street, South Pasadena, Los Angeles, California during 1946. A few years later they purchased a building permit 11 May 1948, to build a cabin. The land was on leased forest land located at, Lot 7, 40233 Hill Ranch Road, Stetson Creek, Angelus Oaks, San Bernardino, California. Earl and Ruth choose to build an A-Frame cabin, with plans found in a Sunset Cabin Magazine. It began with a trench for the foundation being dug one summer and re-dug the next summer. Finally, the structure began to take shape with a kitchen, bedroom, and upstairs bunk room. The family used a chemical toilet in an outbuilding called "The Redwood Room" which was also used as a tool shed. A septic tank was added in the 1960s and a large living/dining room and bathroom were added in the early 1970's. All of these additions were in the original plans but didn't get built early on due to a shortage of time and money. Other members of the family helped throughout the construction and donated or made some of the furnishings.
Earl and Ruth wanted to live near the beach, so they sold their home in South Pasadena and initially renting a home at 302 31st Street, Hermosa Beach, Los Angeles, California during 1952. The following year, they would purchase a home at 1826 Manhattan Avenue, Hermosa Beach, Los Angeles, California. 1977 Earl retired from Los Angeles Wholesale Electric Company; Earl and Ruth sold the Hermosa Electric Business. In retirement, they owned an Airstream trailer jointly with Earl's younger brother, Robert. Earl and Ruth enjoyed traveling with the Airstream, especially on frequent trips north along the coast to Newport, Lincoln, Oregon, where they would park in the same R.V. park each time. While there, a visit the famous Mo's Restaurant for clam chowder was always a must, as well as taking home as much as the trailer freezer would hold. During 1979 they sold their Hermosa Beach home and relocated to 160 Ruth Ann Way, Arroyo Grande, San Luis Obispo, California into their first newly built home. No remodeling was necessary and they lived there for the rest of their lives.
Earl and Ruth enjoyed attending musicals and light operas, watching L. A. Laker's basketball, and going to their 'Cress-Built' cabin in the San Bernardino mountains.
Earl can be described as an accomplished carpenter, he remodeled kitchens, installing new appliances, cabinets, sinks, counters, etc., in his homes. He tore down and rebuilt a large bedroom at the rear of the Oxley Street house in South Pasadena. He renovated the kitchen and two bathrooms as well as adding paneling to all walls throughout the house in Hermosa Beach. Wiring and rewiring of all things electrical were also in his area of expertise. He fixed the wiring anywhere it was needed and put the wiring in the family cabin as it was being built. Earl was known for his sayings, such as: "Don't take any wooden nickels!", "You're just wasting your sweetness on the desert air!", "Bring it (a burp) up again and we'll vote on it!", "I only do it if I'm alone or with someone!", "Here's your hat, what's your hurry?", "Thank you too much!", "I'm glad you met me!" He was also known for his ever-ready questions for departing guests: "Have you checked your oil?"; "Do you have enough gas?; and "Have you got enough air in your tires?". Growing up, Earl had been taught reading fiction was a waste of time, one should only read the factual material. He rarely read anything except newspapers and The Readers' Digest. He didn't like to go to movies for the same reason. He also felt that all anyone needed was their family, friends were unnecessary. He had a large family who lived a busy life and they were enough for him. Earl worked very hard during all of his life. He was very dependable and honest to a fault! So honest, it cost him on his income taxes! He was an avid Republican and maintained a very conservative outlook on life. He was always warning everyone another depression was imminent!
Earl's mother, Margaret Cress, describes him born with no doctor present. She further describes only a midwife assisted in the birth and no birth certificate was filed. Joseph Earl was known as 'Earl' to avoid being confused with his father, Joseph Arthur. He moved with his family to 922 Osage Street, Manhattan, Riley, Kansas during the fall of 1908 at the age of two. He attended Bluemont Elementary School and Manhattan Junior High School, where he was promoted to Manhattan Senior High School May 1920. During his junior year in high school, his family moved to a larger home located at 1225 Claflin Road. Earl tells of at an early age, carrying'hod' filled with 'mud'during the construction of Waters Hall, the College of Architecture building at Kansas State College. He shares stories that he later helped his father with the construction of his store building at 1218 Moro Street. After graduating from Manhattan High School 22 May 1924, he attended Kansas State College. He enrolled at Kansas State College on 9 September 1924 studying Electrical Engineering. He was a member of the American Institute of Electrical Engineers (A.I.E.E) Society and YMCA while at Kansas State College. During June 1927, Earl met his future wife, Ruth Hopkins, at his birthday party. Ruth was brought by friends, Helen Graham and Lenore Cress, Earl's sister. Ruth was in Manhattan, attending Kansas State College summer session. Earl graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering 1 August 1928. After graduation, he enrolled at the University of Idaho in Moscow, Latah, Idaho September 1928, working toward a master's degree in Agriculture Engineering. Earl received his master's degree in Agriculture Engineering on 9 June 1930.
Earl and Ruth decided to marry at Ruth's parents' home, 213 Ashland Avenue, River Forest, Cook, Illinois 8 July 1930. They were married by Rex. A. Mitchell, maternal uncle of Ruth, and William Marbach, pastor of the River Forest Presbyterian Church. Ruth's sister, Marion May Hopkins, served as maid of honor while Donald Pierson,husband of Earl's sister (Lenore) sister-in-law (Helen), served as best man.They would make their home in Geneva, Ashtabula, Ohio. Earl was employed demonstrating and selling electricity to rural residents for the Cleveland Electrical Illuminating Company in Cleveland, Cuyahoga, Ohio from 10 June 1930 to September 1938. Earl and Ruth lived in Geneva, Ashtabula, Ohio at 407 east Main Street, 133 Walnut Street, 147 East Tibbetts Street, and 285 Grant Street. While living in Geneva, they had their only daughter, Rachael Jane on 4 September 1931. This was during the Great Depression when bartering was very helpful and often became a necessity. Earl and Ruth's daughter, Rachael, shared about paying for medical expenses, with the family doctor bringing vegetables and fruits by which she was being paid by her patients forRuth to can.Rachael continues to tell how the doctor and her first-grade teacher boarded at their house. Describing her mother, Ruth, cooking and serving them meals, sewing suits, and dresses, to pay for piano lessons, dance lessons, and household expenses. Earl was one of the few men who held a job and together they were able to avoid the "bread lines" of the time. Ruth was an accomplished seamstress, knitter, and gardener. During the depression and World War II years, she made jellies/jams and canned fruits and vegetables from the garden. She baked wonderful breads and pies.
In September of 1938, the family moved to California, hoping the drier air would help their daughter, Rachael, asthma. On the trip to California, stopping in River Forest, Cook, Illinois to see Ruth's parents, Marion and May Hopkins and then in Manhattan, Riley, Kansas to see Earl's parents, Joseph Arthur and Margaret Cress. Upon arrival in California, first living with Myrtle Simpson Hislop and John Hislop's house at 2640 Palm Place, South Gate, Los Angeles, California. Myrtle was Earl's mothers' sister. It was not long before Earl and family were living in their own place at State Street, Huntington Park, Los Angeles, California. Earl found work as a Salesman at Montgomery Ward, Huntington Park, Los Angeles, California then a Salesman at Reid's Electric, Monrovia, Los Angeles, California.
Earl's older sister, Lenore, and family wanted to move to California as they were living in New Jersey and seeking a warmer climate. The two families decided to rent a home together at 826 Brighton Avenue, Burbank, Los Angeles, California January 1939. It was cozy, as Lenore, husband Harold Batchelor, and their two sons, Gail and Jann joined Earl, Ruth, and daughter Rachel in one home. By September 1939 Earl, Ruth, and Rachel decided to rent an apartment at 1114 El Centro Street, South Pasadena, Los Angeles, California. Earl also started working for Los Angeles Wholesale Electric Company, selling wiring and lighting supplies as a traveling salesman on commission. He had a very large territory encompassing all of Los Angeles County and Orange County. Earl and Ruth opened an appliance store in Hermosa Beach, Los Angeles, California during 1939 also. The store was named Hermosa Electric and was located at 1034 Hermosa Avenue, Hermosa Beach, Los Angeles, California. Ruth operated the store during the week and Earl helps on the weekend. Earl volunteered as an Auxiliary Policeman during World War II air raid drills in South Pasadena. He was unarmed and served between 1939 and 1952.
Earl and Ruth purchased a home at 1713 Oxley Street, South Pasadena, Los Angeles, California during 1940. The family attended the Calvary Presbyterian Church, Freemont Street, South Pasadena, Los Angeles, California. Both Earl and Ruth sang in the church choir. Earl sang bass/baritone and Ruth Alto. For one of the church's annual Christmas pageants, he performed "We Three Kings Of Orient Are" as the king who bore gold to the Christ child. He also loved to sing with his barbershop quartet. His favorite song was 'Aura Lee'. Earl and Ruth were member of the Couples' Club at the church. Additionally, Ruth sang in the Oneonta Women's Lyric Club in South Pasadena.
Earl's younger brother, Jay, wanted to move to California, next. He and his family came and stayed a short time until they found a rental home at 1030 Cawston Street, South Pasadena, Los Angeles, California September 1945.
Earl's youngest brother, Robert, wanted to move to California next. After he retired from the Army 15 April 1946, Robert and his family stayed a short time before renting the home next door at 1711 Oxley Street, South Pasadena, Los Angeles, California.
Earl and Ruth purchased a home at 1821 Laurel Street, South Pasadena, Los Angeles, California during 1946. A few years later they purchased a building permit 11 May 1948, to build a cabin. The land was on leased forest land located at, Lot 7, 40233 Hill Ranch Road, Stetson Creek, Angelus Oaks, San Bernardino, California. Earl and Ruth choose to build an A-Frame cabin, with plans found in a Sunset Cabin Magazine. It began with a trench for the foundation being dug one summer and re-dug the next summer. Finally, the structure began to take shape with a kitchen, bedroom, and upstairs bunk room. The family used a chemical toilet in an outbuilding called "The Redwood Room" which was also used as a tool shed. A septic tank was added in the 1960s and a large living/dining room and bathroom were added in the early 1970's. All of these additions were in the original plans but didn't get built early on due to a shortage of time and money. Other members of the family helped throughout the construction and donated or made some of the furnishings.
Earl and Ruth wanted to live near the beach, so they sold their home in South Pasadena and initially renting a home at 302 31st Street, Hermosa Beach, Los Angeles, California during 1952. The following year, they would purchase a home at 1826 Manhattan Avenue, Hermosa Beach, Los Angeles, California. 1977 Earl retired from Los Angeles Wholesale Electric Company; Earl and Ruth sold the Hermosa Electric Business. In retirement, they owned an Airstream trailer jointly with Earl's younger brother, Robert. Earl and Ruth enjoyed traveling with the Airstream, especially on frequent trips north along the coast to Newport, Lincoln, Oregon, where they would park in the same R.V. park each time. While there, a visit the famous Mo's Restaurant for clam chowder was always a must, as well as taking home as much as the trailer freezer would hold. During 1979 they sold their Hermosa Beach home and relocated to 160 Ruth Ann Way, Arroyo Grande, San Luis Obispo, California into their first newly built home. No remodeling was necessary and they lived there for the rest of their lives.
Earl and Ruth enjoyed attending musicals and light operas, watching L. A. Laker's basketball, and going to their 'Cress-Built' cabin in the San Bernardino mountains.
Earl can be described as an accomplished carpenter, he remodeled kitchens, installing new appliances, cabinets, sinks, counters, etc., in his homes. He tore down and rebuilt a large bedroom at the rear of the Oxley Street house in South Pasadena. He renovated the kitchen and two bathrooms as well as adding paneling to all walls throughout the house in Hermosa Beach. Wiring and rewiring of all things electrical were also in his area of expertise. He fixed the wiring anywhere it was needed and put the wiring in the family cabin as it was being built. Earl was known for his sayings, such as: "Don't take any wooden nickels!", "You're just wasting your sweetness on the desert air!", "Bring it (a burp) up again and we'll vote on it!", "I only do it if I'm alone or with someone!", "Here's your hat, what's your hurry?", "Thank you too much!", "I'm glad you met me!" He was also known for his ever-ready questions for departing guests: "Have you checked your oil?"; "Do you have enough gas?; and "Have you got enough air in your tires?". Growing up, Earl had been taught reading fiction was a waste of time, one should only read the factual material. He rarely read anything except newspapers and The Readers' Digest. He didn't like to go to movies for the same reason. He also felt that all anyone needed was their family, friends were unnecessary. He had a large family who lived a busy life and they were enough for him. Earl worked very hard during all of his life. He was very dependable and honest to a fault! So honest, it cost him on his income taxes! He was an avid Republican and maintained a very conservative outlook on life. He was always warning everyone another depression was imminent!
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