Shirley Moyer

Ginkgoes of Ben Venue Shirley Moyer

Although this book is mainly fiction, Donner Avenue and BenVenue exist. They are the past and present, framing scenes for dysfunctional families of my imagination. If you happen to recognize my characters, it is sheer coincidence. Ah, but, Bill Williamson, the inspiration for this novel is real and he continues to inspire me from some unknown galaxy. His legacy of humor overpowers and dampens his legacy of lies. And like most writers, writing is the way we keep those we love alive. Sources for many of the facts came from 1904 through 1917 World Almanacs, and from old soldiers, old war records and dog-eared pre-1900 newspapers. My circle of friends supplied me with more confidence than I deserved: Marion Braxton, Bob and Diana Brennan, Bill and Shearon Jamerson, Karl and Marlene Kalnitz. Without each of you BenVenue would be piled with almanacs in the corner. My family, Bob, Susan, Bill, Mary and Nancy, whom over the last two years, saw evidence of me as mounds of manuscript - Thank you, for your patience and support.