As a young child, sometime in the late 1920's or early'30's, mother loved to go to work with her father at the Quartermaster Depot. He kept her with him during the workday and she was allowed to play with the business machines on his desk. Many times he was called away to the nether regions of Warehouse 46, and that's when Julia came to the little girl's rescue.

Julia was the black maid at the Depot. She cleaned all the offices and the home of the commanding officer. She didn't make much money but was always resplendent in her black uniform and white cap. She also wore a stiffly starched white apron, which she kept immaculate. Best of all, she was very kind and would take the little girl with the long, yellow curls wherever she cleaned.

Sometimes, in the leather shop, Julia would lift her up so she could "ride" on the wooden form where saddles were constructed. Or maybe Julia would clean the Officer's Club over the entry gate to the Quadrangle. It was a beautiful room with delicate arches and columns, and decorative painting on the walls. It was fun to imagine the balls and the soldiers and ladies who danced there in the old days.

There were times when Julia would sit to rest and stroke the curls that were so different from her own hair.

When World War II broke out, mother went to work at JQMD in "Procurement" and Julia was still working there as a maid. In 1947, mother was engaged to a young soldier and the wedding was planned to be at home. Invitations were issued, gifts were sent and the dining room of the old house was full to overflowing with gifts. Julia was invited and stopped by mother's desk one day and said, "Don't you worry, Miss Dorothy, I'll be there at your wedding."

And don't you know, she was. She came in her uniform with the white cap and crisply starched apron and brought a gentleman friend. They served the other guests. It may have been because she had no money, but Julia gave her love-the greatest gift of all.

By Jeanne Burke
Copyright 2006