My Memories

"My Memories" is a memoir by Mary Frances Youngman née Van Lare (1899–1993) chronicling her long life in Wayne County, New York. While the deeply personal nature of this memoir will hold significance to Mary Frances's descendants, its charming firsthand account of rural life in the early 20th century can be enjoyed by all. Of special historical interest are the details of her childhood, as well as the lives of her parents and grandparents, who were recent immigrants from the Netherlands. This document was transcribed and edited by Elliott Biondo, one of Mary Frances's many great-grandchildren.