The Chariton Leader, Chariton, Iowa Thursday, November 16, 1905 Mr. Editor, there is a problem now confronting many persons of a domestic character that is hard of solution in the extreme -- that of securing competent help in the kitchen and the home. The most important duties of life are overlooked by so many in this frivolous age of society and fashion until good cooks and housekeepers are the exception and not the rule. Formerly these were things to be prided in and to be well equipped for the exalted duties as a house wife was the greatest consideration. But how things have been changed. The occupations of the men have been invaded until feminine modesty and domestic usefulness is nearly a lost art. To do artistic work in somebody's parlor or kitchen is now looked upon as almost the ban of disgrace. Even those who attempt it seem to feel a condescension and that they are wrongfully being imposed on and render their service grudgingly and half heartedly. How can this be remidied? The service in the home is surely more dignifi! ed than that of the shop or office with vulgar surroundings and male companionship. The girls need to be emancipated from this hallucination into which they have fallen that they and the employing house wives may again become mutual benefits to each other. Let a movement in Chariton be started tending to this end. Let it be shown that the comforts and refinements of a home to those who must serve is far preferable to work in factory or store. It certainly would be much more congenial and exposed to practically no dangers. Here a decorum could be maintained and a degree of independence with the skill employed. Why not confer upon these matters and come to a mutual understanding? The present status of household help in Chariton is very unsatisfactory. It is of grave importance at this time. Someone has said that we can exist without art, music or books, but civilized man cannot live without cooks. Let us hear from others. -- PUZZLED HOUSE WIFE. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Copied by Nancee(McMurtrey)Seifert September 11. 2004 [email protected] *. . .to do artistic work in somebody's parlor...........I've never seen it put that way before. Ugh.