Jean O'Connell
Note: I did not know of any of the following memos or letters (except for those addressed to me) until I found them in Jean O'Connell's papers after her death on September 15, 1991).
1974
1974.xx.xx (Undated) (Jean OConnell to Anthony OConnell on copy of H. A. OConnell's Will))
"Tony- This is the draft of will Prichard sent us - a few changes were made - mostly adding your name as Trustee and mine as Executrix. My will reads the same. The "Marital Share" part has not been changed. So if the estate for tax reads 200,000 the trust must be 100,000".
1975
1975.10.12 (Jean OConnell to E. A. Prichard)
"I have recently received a bill from Mr. Yates for $696.00.
Because of the exotic size of this bill I have asked the advice of a business man of long standing in Alexandria, a friend and client of some members of your firm, who advises me that the exorbitance of Mr. Yates' bill is probably due to a clerical process which does not correctly reflect the services performed and not performed.
I am enclosing a check for $210.00 based on the 3 ¼ hours I was with Mr. Yates at $60.00 an hour. This amount seems very generous considering how little of the time was actually used for the preparation of an estate tax, the purpose for which I made the appointment.
If this is not satisfactory I would appreciate an itemized account of each charge which I would like to present to the Bar Association and to a consumers TV program.
Yours truly, Jean M. OConnell (Mrs. H. A.)"
1975.10.25 (Jean OConnell to Mumford Yates)
"I find your bill incredible. Unless there is some mistake in it I feel forced to ask for help in settling it. As is I plan to ask a review of it by the Bar Assoc. and a consumers program.
My complaints are:
- For a telephone call from me to you asking for an appointment to do my husband's estate tax you are charging me $105.00 (see first 8 items on the billing report.) Is it customary to charge for asking for an appointment?
- The day of the appointment, June 18th, 5.3 hours is listed, 10:00 a.m. to 3:18 p.m.! I don't believe it. How about 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. No way am I responsible for your late 2 hour lunch hour.
- Following my return home from that meeting I called you and asked that all work on the estate tax be stopped- no letters to be sent out and no appraisals to be made etc., as I felt you were pressuring me into moving from my home so you could have the property leased. From the time I asked you to stop work until I picked up my papers your billing report is very busy including legal, paralegal fees, etc, for 7.6 hours at $215.00. How can this be?
- On June 26th I stopped at the receptionist's desk to pick up the papers. No conference of any kind but you were courteous enough to put the envelope in my car parked near the door. A courtesy for which I was charged $25.00!
- June 30th. For the return of my will (made out last year and well paid for at that time) $10.00!
- In spite of asking you not to send for bank statements, insurance, etc. as I was doing it you did so charging me $12.50 for receiving an insurance check and then $15.00 to forward it to me. Incredible!
I have lived in this county for 38 years and have many friends in similar circumstances to mine. None with whom I have discussed this have experienced such treatment. Certainly it inspires no confidence in the legal community and a lot less in your firm.
Enclosed is a check for $210.00 for the 3 ½ hours at $60.00 which I feel is very much more than ample.
Sincerely"
1975.11.11 (Jean OConnell to Arnold B. Kassabian)
"I understand that a former client of a country lawyer may appeal to the Bar Association through you when they feel they have been unfairly charged:
I would appreciate such a review of my bill from Mr. Munford
Yates. Briefly the situation:
Following the death of my husband I called Mr. Prichard' office to have the forms for the estate taxes made out, and was referred to Mr. Munford Yates. The appointment was made to meet with him June 18 at 10:00(?) a.m. to which I was to bring all the pertinent papers. Of some papers he had copies made while I was there and returned them to me then. He took me to the Clerk of the Court's office for the qualification of myself as executor, and I left for home about 1:30 p.m.
Upon returning home I had second thoughts about the process of how a very simple uncomplicated estate was being handled, and felt I was being maneuvered into leasing or selling my home which I did not wish to do. I called Mr. Yates that same afternoon and asked him to hold everything. No appraisals, no letters to banks or annuity or insurance requests, etc. to be made by him, and said I would call him within 2 days about my final decision. This I did and made an appointment to pick up my remaining papers on June 26th. It was quite clear to me then that Mr. Yates was not about to take care of my affairs as I wished and I wanted him to know positively that all services were terminated.
For the 3 ½ hours with Mr. Yates I felt his $696 bill (copy enclosed) was exotically exorbitant and sent him $210 (3 ½ hours at $60 per hour), hoping to get this settled quickly. The conference was a complete waste of my time. I received my qualification as executor which I could easily have done myself and a complete distrust of the legal profession which may or may not turn out to be a benefit.
The estate is a simple affair consisting of 2 pieces of real estate (the home and an unimproved piece) both paid for years ago, one savings account, one checking account, a few certificates of deposit, two stocks an annuity and Veterans and Civil Service insurance.
An itemized account of Mr. Yates bill is enclosed.
The first item appears to be $25 for Mr. Prichard's office to refer my request for an appointment to Mr. Yates, and the second item of $40 seems to be his call to me setting the time of the appointment and what papers to bring, and the third item of another $40 for looking at my husband's will (drawn up in Mr. Prichard's office last year and well paid for then) and making a list of heirs - me. Then $12 for another review. So before I even get there with my paper's I'm billed $117.00! (Mr. Prichard removed the $36 for his services so it is not included here.)
For the appointment itself the bill is $265 for 5.3 hours. I was there at 10:00 a.m. and left about 1:30 p.m. or 3 ½ hours (used as explained above). Even if Mr. Yates felt the need of a long lunch hour I do not think I should be charged for it.
The next 8 items totaling 7.6 hours and $215 appear to be for nothing as I had asked Mr. Yates to terminate any actions on June 18th.
The next item of $25, listed as "conference and memo" was actually just giving me back the envelope of remaining papers. No conference or memo of any kind.
Then comes $10 for sending me my will (drawn up last year in Mr. Prichard's office and retained there) which Mr. Yates had not been able to give me when I picked up my papers.
The last 4 items - $52.50 - appear to be more padding, and was actually the simple process of sending me a life insurance check. Even though I asked him on June 18th not to apply for it he did, wrote that he had received it and was unable to contact me, and for me to call his office. I did call and asked to have the check sent to me. Even if I had asked him to send for it is it proper to have such a simple thing worked up to a $52.50 procedure?
I feel Mr. Yates has taken advantage of me in a very gross manner and hope that I have given you enough information to be able to do whatever a Review Board does, hopefully resulting in a fair settlement and soon. I am preparing a letter to a Consumer TV program hoping they also may be able to help me.
Thank you for any consideration you can give to this problem. I would appreciate an early answer either by phone (971-2855) or note.
Sincerely, Mrs. Jean OConnell
P.S. Sorry about the typing. I am a better cook."
1976
1976.01.03 (Jean OConnell's memo on Robert Whitestone's letter)
"Jan . 3 Thanked Mr. W. for prompt & effective attention to complaint. Also that Mr. Yates letter satisfactorily concluded my complaint against him."
1977
1977.11.18 (Jean OConnell's memo on Stephen Best's letter)
"(Editing note: Undecipherable word) - Nov. 18, 1977 & asked for extension to Feb 1, 1978"
"Called Nov. 30-1977 - Should have received pkt of papers at time of qualifying as administrator""
"Feb. 1, 1978. Mission accomplished!!!"
1984
Big envelope 1
The following eleven items are on the front of a large manila envelope addressed to Jean OConnell. In Jean OConnell's hand writing except where noted. The initials "PDS" are probably for Philip D. Shalloway, and "CJW" for Clement J. Wall. Most are undated so their chronology is guesswork. The other side of this large manila envelope is blank. I'll call the memo side of this large manila envelope "big envelope 1"
Unknown date. (Jean O'Connell on big envelope 1)
"Will and estate papers of H. A. OConnell."
1984.12.84 (Jean O'Connell to Philip Shalloway on big envelope 1)
"to Mr. Shalloway:
Please do what is necessary to really finish up the estate details of my husband, H. A. OConnell. Will, estate filings, tax forms and IRS letter of estate tax acceptance are included. Thank you - Jean OConnell,
12-18-84"
Unknown date. (Jean O'Connell on big envelope 1)
"*not returned by Mr. Wall"
Unknown date. (Jean O'Connell on big envelope 1)
"*P.S. Notice from Sheriff 12/15/84 and $25 service check included."
(Editing note: The following is not in Jean OConnell's handwriting (except for "already filed 1980-JM O'C" and "delivered then". The initials "PDS" are probably for Philip D. Shalloway, and "CJW" for Clement J. Wall)
Unknown date (Unknown author on big envelope 1)
"971-2855" (Jean O'Connell's home phone number)
Unknown date (Philip Shalloway on big envelope 1)
"19 Dec 84 - file received from client - PDS
20 Dec 84 - file given to CJW-
Extension to 3 Jan 1985 granted by Com. of Acts"
Unknown date (Philip Shalloway on big envelope 1)
"Will WB201-96
List of Heirs WB201-110
Inventory WB240-804"
Unknown date (Philip Shalloway on big envelope 1)
"Real Estate (both parcels)
title held as tenants in common
(1/2 undivided interest in"
Unknown date (Philip Shalloway on big envelope 1)
"
First Accounting filed and approved (26 May 75 to 26 May 1977 WB241-397
2nd Accounting (to be) (filed with Commissioner on 3 Jan 1985) (26 May 7 to 31 Dec 1980"
Unknown date (Jean O'Connell on big envelope 1)
"already filed 1980-JM O'C" (Under Philip Shalloway's "(filed with Commissioner on 3 Jan 1985)" "delivered then" (Under Philip Shalloway's "(26 May 7 to 31 Dec 1980")
Unknown date (Unknown author on big envelope 1)
"941-3700" (Philip Shalloway's office number)
1985
Unknown date (Jean OConnell memo on narrow slip of paper)
"Shalloway 941-3700
That I called Com. Of Accts re Dec 15th not Nov 15
That I will see the acct. tomorrow at 8:30 and the acct. will be filed before Jan. 31st.
I recd a bill that must have been a mistake. Mr Wall got the extension but I can't see that he has done 600 worth of lawyering. I asked the Com. of Accts office of that was the cost.
15500
After I mak file the acting I would like to consider petitioning to have the clause removed from the will. But What is cost.,
Will pd for an(?) Oct 24 83 check cancelled."
1985.01.03
(Will of Jean OConnell written with co-executors Anthony OConnell and Philip Shalloway.)
1985.01.23 (Jean OConnell's memo on letter size paper)
"Jan 23, 1985
Copy of check made and sent. Note added:
"As you suggested, the day I was in your office I went immediately to the Commissioner of Accounts Office. The estate filing for Dec. 31, 1980 with the fee paid was in my file there. I do not understand how it could be reported missing by your office.""
Time line
Time line (I think the set up here is that the CPA made another second account (Same contents as 1981 second account?, associated it with Philip Shalloway by making sure it was dated 1985.1.3, the same date of the new Will (and the day she was in his office?), and ... . Now it gets confusing. Somebody expected the recent account signed by mother dated 1985.1.3 to be in the Com's office. It's not going to be made public there because there is already one posted in 1981.
Questions:
Why, when there is a second account already filed and posted in 1981, would some unknown source have Jean OConnell sign on 1985.1.3, another second account covering the same period? And then Jean OConnell believing Philip Shalloway reported it missing? When it would never be
1981.4.15 second account covering period 1977.5.26 to 1980.12.31 filed
1981.5.4 second account covering period 1977.5.26 to 1980.12.31 posted (but maybe it still wasn't recorded?)(Why would Shalloway, in 1985, think a second account had to be filed? (Is it realistic to think that the second account of 1981 was recorded but it was taken out of the file? And it wasn't researched more to find that it was recorded? How could the recorded one be found without seeing a copy of it with the book and page number on it to go to that book and page number?
1985.1.3 date of Jean OConnell's new Will nominated Anthony OConnell and Philip Shallow as co-executors (assume that was the day Jean OConnell was in his office?)
1985.1.3 date someone wrote that date had to be used
unknown date, memo on yellow envelope (not in Jean OConnell's handwriting, I'm guessing is is someone in Philip Shalloway's office):
2nd Accounting (to be) (filed with Commissioner on 3 Jan 1985)(26 May 77 to 31 Dec 1980" (Shalloway)
"already filed 1980-JM OC" "delivered then"
unknown date, memo on big yellow envelope, unknown hand writing (Wall? Could look at his signature): "Extension to 3 Jan 1985 granted by Comm. Of Acts"
1985.01.3
1985.01.23 Jean OConnell memo: "Jan. 23, 1985 Copy of check made and sent. Note added: As you suggested, the day I was in your office I went immediately to the Commissioner of Accounts Office. The estate filing for Dec. 31, 1980 with the fee paid was in my file there. I do not understand how it could be reported missing by your office."
1981.04.25 (Joanne Barnes statement to Jean OConnell)
Preparation of Federal and Virginia income tax returns for the year ended December 31, 1980, and other accounting services to date $320.00
Shalloway's letters, see what fits:
1985.01.03 (Philip Shalloway to Jean OConnell)
Review of file, Meeting with Commissioner of Accounts, Review of Fiduciary File, Checking of land records to ascertain title, Telephone calls to accountant, and Conference 6.0 hrs.$600.00 Preparation of Last Will and Testament [$]150.00 BALANCE DUE ON ACCOUNT $750.00
1985.1.16 (Philip Shalloway to Jean OConnell)
Upon reviewing my files I cannot find where you have paid for your Last Will and Testament. You stated that you had a cancelled check. Please forward to me a copy of that check so I can determine where that payment was credited. Usually on fee checks, we like to pencil in our file number somewhere on the face of the check and that reference would be most helpful to me in determining where your check was credited.
I discussed your objections concerning our fees with Mr. Wall who was quite surprised at your position. Since you feel so strongly that the work we did at your request did not justify the $600.00 charged, Mr. Wall authorized me to deduct $100.00 from the bill for the time he expended. You must remember the work we did for you was done without consultation since you delivered a file to us and was unavailable for discussion about it since you went out of town immediately after delivery. The file was reviewed carefully. Mr. Wall did contact and meet with the Commissioner of Accounts and reviewed your probate file at the clerk's office. We also made various telephone calls to your past accountants and checked the land records to make sure that title was correct. All of these things involve time which the Client does not see but the time, in fact, was expended.
In reference to outlining your fee to eliminate the Trust set up in your husband's Last Will and Testament, I feel that since you have disputed our time and fees previously charged to you, it would be better for you to obtain another attorney to provide that service for you. If you will recall, your husband's Will was quite long and complicated and removal of the Trust could be quite complex and time consuming, and it would be unfair for me to estimate a fee to provide that service at this time. Remember your deadline to file your accounting is the 31st day of this month, and I wish you the best of luck in accomplishing this accounting and finding another attorney to provide the services outlined herein.
1985.02.08 (Philip Shalloway to Jean OConnell)
I am in receipt of your letter of February 3, 1985, and even though I did not remember keeping any of your papers I completely reviewed my file, contacted Mr. Clement J. Wall who also reviewed his file, and it is both of our recollection that all the papers, including the items you requested in your correspondence, were returned to you at our last meeting on January 3, 1985. The two items you refer to had to be given to you because, without them, your accountant could not have prepared the final accounting that was due January 31, 1985. Perhaps you should contact your accountant to see if you gave than to her. I hope you find your papers soon.
1985.01.23 (Jean OConnell's memo on page 1 of a 2 page account "for the period ending December 31, 1984")
"copy
Original delivered by hand to Office of Commissioner of Accts. (Jan 23,1985- checked)
3500 fee paid"
1985.01.23 (Detail of Jean OConnell's memo on page 1 of a 2 page account "for the period ending December 31, 1984")
"copy
Original delivered by hand to Office of Commissioner of Accts. (Jan 23,1985- checked)
3500 fee paid"
1985.01.23 (Jean OConnell's memo on a 3"x 5" paper clipped to page 2 of a 2 page account "for the period ending December 31, 1984". "Retain this copy for your records" is typed on the 3"x 5" paper)
"From Edward White - The final filing for HAO'C Estate"
1985.02.03 (Jean OConnell's transcription of her 1985.02.03 letter to Philip Shalloway)
"This copy for my file.
Copy of note sent to Mr. Shalloway 2/3/85
February 3, 1985
To: Mr. Philip Shalloway
7620 Little River Turnpike
Annandale, Va. 22150
From:
Jean OConnell
6541 Franconia Road
Springfield, Va. 22150
I would appreciate it if you would send me the remaining papers you have of mine including the IRS notice of estate tax acceptance and the notice from the Fx. Sheriff's office delivered to me Dec. 15, 1984.
Thank you Jean OConnell"
1985.02.25 (Jean OConnell to Philip Shalloway)
"February 25, 1985
Dear Mr. Shalloway,
I admired the way you critiqued the contract of a friend of mine and how well you handled the problem of another friend I had recommended go to you.
In fact there was no doubt in my mind that I could trust you implicitly to help me file an estate accounting.
I am sorry that the issue has become so confused. The enclosed check -$80- I feel more than covers the time spent on what actually was useful to my estate accountin-ting. That is calling the Com. Of Accounts office for a time ex-tension - 30 days- the same time the Sheriff's office was late in delivering the notice to me. Jean OConnell"
1985.05.08+ (Jean OConnell's memo of her phone call to Joanne Barnes)
"So Kaiser-Hilton. Joanne - 549-7800
My son Tony called. He said he wanted very much to be the full trustee with an agent to receive notices and processes from the court & commissioner as in the May 8th letter. Would First thing is to have the final accounting based on same figures as in the 1st accting. Send it to me- do I have to sign it"
(Editing note: The following was apparently what Joanne Barnes told Jean OConnell)
call- will do draft of final acting. Deed to property-convey to court. Needs how much
1985.05.30
Will of Jean OConnell written with co-executors Anthony OConnell and Joanne
Barnes Jo Ann Barnes (Joanne Barnes).
xxxx.xx.xx (Undated) (Jean OConnell to Commissioner of Accounts (draft))
"SAVE RE Est of HAOC 45,325.00
In answer to your letter of May 8th regarding progress the in establishing a trust to be set up required by the will with Anthony M. OConnell as trustee I would like to report that a co-trustee has agreed to serve with him.
Ms Jo Ann Barnes
Home address
7225 Pine Drive, Annandale, Va. 22003
354-0673 - office
I am She will be working on this soon with a lawyer. I had hoped that the procedure of setting up a trust could be simplified instead by putting title to that amt the "Residuary Estate" (my home) in the names of my three children and - the same as listed in the will to receive it. There should be more definite progress soon and I will inform your office then.
V T Y
J M O'C Extrx
Sent 5/31/85
To Commissioner of Accts.
Sent 5/31/85"
1985.05.30 (Jean OConnell to Commissioner of Accounts)
"May 30, 1985
Commissioner's Office of Accts.
Fairfax, Va.
Dear Sir,
Re: Estate of Harold A. OConnell
In answer to your letter of May 8th regarding progress in establishing a trust required by the will with Anthony M. OConnell as trustee I would like to report that a co-trustee has agreed to serve with him. She is: Ms Jo Ann Barnes (Home address 7225 Pine Drive, Annandale, Va. 22003 Tel 354-0673. Office phone 549-7800.) She will be working on this soon with a lawyer.
I had hoped that the procedure of setting up a trust could be simplified by putting title to the "Residuary Estate" (my home) in the names of my three children as listed in the will to receive it.
There should be more definite progress soon and I will inform your office then.
Very truly yours
Jean M. OConnell, Exrx"
Big envelope 2
1985.05.31 and 1985.6.3(?) (Two Jean OConnell's memos on the large manila envelope not addressed to anyone. These are on the side with no metal fastener.)
"Tax Assessment papers
and etc re property "
"Trust
"May 31, '85
cc to JoAnn - Com letter
" White " + est. accts
June 3 to Tony" "
Big envelope 3
Jean OConnell's memos on the large manila envelope not addressed to anyone. These are on the side with the metal fastener. None of the memos are dated so their chronology is guesswork)
be3-1
"good man Henry Mackall
Tx
Interest transferred to trustee OK
Main thing - go ahead
showing % geo in interest
Not Have to be co-trustee?"
be3-2
"Tony qualify
JoAnn " "
be3-3
"Bond fee- Lawyer fix so
bond pd when sold.
nominal amt now."
be3-4
"JoAnn's
look over carefully. & call for questions
qualifying Trustee,
then trust - lawyer"
be3-5
"later non-taxable exchange.-"
be3-6
-leave to son-
lawyer & commissioner"
be3-7
"qualify trustee"
be3-8
"Equalization Bd.
691-3213
will call when
another date open"
be3-9
"Clerk 691-2224
691-4193- give
fiduciary no. 21840
(Procedure
Come in - surety bond-)
(Va resident with)
Patty Moat ot"
1985.8.5 (Jean OConnell to Anthony OConnell)
"August 5, 1985
Dear Tony,
I have to know right away if you are going to be Co-trustee or not. Please check and sign your answer.
____ Yes I will be co-trustee
___ No I will not be a co-trustee.
Love Mother"
1985.09.20
Codicil of Will written for Jean OConnell with co-executors Edward White and Jean Nader.
1986
1986.02.20+ (Jean OConnell's memo on envelope of Anthony OConnell's letter of February 20, 1986.)
"836-5444
What is an estate filing if 12-31-84 not good.
He will call Mackal & see if hee has estate filing.
I will call Joanne"
1987
- (Jean OConnell to Anthony OConnell)
(Parts blacked out because they are too personal)
"August 29, 1987
Dear Tony,
(Part blacked out)
I called Andy. He hadn't heard from the hoped for purchaser. But he and Lin walked over the place and made arrangements for the purchaser to walk it this week end. Andy said it looked pretty depressing. The developer above had piped storm water to the edge of his property where it poured over our property making a ravine and huge puddles twice the size of our house. If it doesn't get sold he said something would have to be done about it. Where the sewer is looks very sloppy and there is much trash about. Property owners adjoining have given their property on the sewer line to the county for parkland.
I hope very much that the sale goes thru and will be happy to accept a whole lot less as we do need the money and now. I should have sold it a long time ago and invested the money and probably would have come out ok but I didn't know how to really get going.
Maribeth, Jean and Will Hopper were here this week. Jean just graduated from Penn State as a civil Engineer, a degree is Spanish and a minor inn Art. On their way from graduation to a job as a civil engineer at Newport news Shipbldg. They left to go there by way of Asseauteaque & Chincoteque. Will has another 1 ½ yrs at Wash State in political science.
Jamie has gone to France for his H. S. Senior year and Richard goes to Univ. of Vt. this week for his freshman year.
The Nadirs dog had 10 puppies so Amy is ecstatic. Everyone seems very busy.
(Part blacked out)
The house is getting some long awaited care. New shutters, replacement of rotted curly spindles on upstairs porch and good sanding of old wood.
Storm window frames off to sand window sills, reglazing and caulking of all and washing. Never have had such good workers, careful and skilful. Hope I can get the yard half way neat to go with it. Right now it is the worst its ever been.
I love you very much. Mother."
1987.09.13 (Jean OConnell to Anthony OConnell)
""Sept. 13, 1987
Dear Tony,
I have been doing a lot of thinking about Accotink and have come to the conclusion that I want to sell it now at the original price the man offered and the real estate fee Lin Fitzgerald originally wanted.
The Metro station and Spr. By-pass will be at least 10 yrs and I need money now. Also there will be a lot of expense protecting that piece and preparing it for development.
I do not have any money to invest in it and prefer to take less for it. It's almost 40 years since we bought it and that is more than long enough to wait. I do not want to wait a day longer and hope you will call Andy and ask him to talk to Lin and see if it can be done very soon. It is important tom not miss being able to get capital gains which will be the case after Dec 31, 1987.
Being 75 is a lot different than being 65. I have much less energy and need to hire more help than I used to. Please call me as soon as you can tell me what you are doing about the sale. If necessary I can get my lawyer to work on it.
Love, Mother
1987.09.18 (Jean OConnell to Anthony OConnell)
"Sept. 18, 1987
Dear Tony,
Thanks for calling yesterday.
I was so happy to hear you laugh.
I know it is impossible for you, Jean Mary or Sheila to understand much about the situation of being 75 with more responsibilities than I can handle anymore. And there is no reason you should. Your turn will come and that will be time enough.
Meantime I believe money should be used for important things - to my mind education, shelter and food - and secondly investing future.
I love you very much.
Mother"
1987.10.23 (Jean OConnell to Anthony OConnell)
"October 23, 1987
Dear Tony,
Hope this finds you on Monday after a happy birthday celebration. Sorry they don't deliver on Sunday so this wish for a very happy day would be on time. Am enclosing a check to help the occasion. Enjoy.
So glad you could come over and see Helene and Jean Mary. She very much appreciated seeing you too.
We all think you did a great job dealing with the Springfield planning group with your letters and presence at meetings. Guess the developers want to wait for the election to be over. If Herrity wins the developers may get more backing than if Moore wins. It's going to be close.
Helene and I had a very nice trip even tho it was pretty much unplanned. Didn't get to Nantucket or Martha's Vineyard. Got to the Ferry ramp at Woods Hole but the weather was so stormy the ferry didn't go. Investigated Danbury instead. Very beautiful homes, mostly dark brown a la Cape Cod. Up to Portland to see Sheila & Jim and then on to Burlington to see Richard. He was out not to return until 7 p m. so we had to go on without seeing him which was disappointing. Next visited a friend's of Helene's from their elementary school days. She was a real fascinating person - in an old salt box house chock-a-block with Vermont antiques in the original finish and her own hooked rugs plus much more.
Then down thru Mass. To see Laney & Jim Wade in Simsbury, Conn. Their modern home and her garden are beautiful. This has been their year to travel - Britain - 2 times, Hawaii, Japan & China - each a separate trip. Laney bought homes many lovely things.
Helene found some of her old friends near Swarthmore. Then home and she flew back to La Posada while I drove up to Nader's with Lucille and took J. M. with us to a central Atlantic Region Nat. Garden club Conference which was very entertaining. Things seem to be going along there. J. M. has been coaching with another girl a freshman girls tennis team. They won the 12th match of 12 while we were there so there was much celebrating. J. M. painted pumpkins with faces and decoration for each of the 30 plus corsages, choc. racquets & had a big cake made for the occasion.
Then back home - a cultural shock. The outside painting was done and looks very good. Inside everything but the washer & dryer was kaput including the sump pump pumps worn out I guess with the Aug. water mess. Vacuum, dishwasher, bathroom heater & barn room heaters. Finally today most is fixed except for the vacuum & dishwasher which I'll do without. Meantime I'm convinced that is time now if not too late for me to find a retirement residence. I'm useless in the yard as well as the house. Wish one of you wanted to live here? Have a great 46th year - prosperous and with love.
I love you very much and appreciate your work on the Accotink access road. Glad your camping trip was successful.
Love
Mother
Are you enjoying the Cardinals as much as the Redskins?
- (Jean OConnell to Anthony OConnell)
"November 29, 1987
Dear Tony
This is our 3rd day of rain and warnings are out for 2" - 3" today. They must be right because there was a huge flock of sea gulls on the school grounds - but not one in my yard. I wonder why- maybe they need more take off space.
It was nice to hear your voice and I much appreciated your Thanksgiving greeting. Thot I would like to do one more T-dinner So I invited two friends who would be charitable who would be charitable about my rusty cooking and also help put things on and off. Thanks to the perfect weather we had a real good time. T- dinners are worth the effort just for the ample harvest of leftovers. Did you wear out your appetite for turkey long ago (She was so glad to see you again) I have been really busy taking care of things that fell apart. Guess I told you about my big water leak ($350 worth) the sump pump pump had to be replaced because that much water wore it out. The day following the leak repair the central vacuum quit (replacement cost about $100000). A new relay switch has been on order 2 mos so it looks like I'm out of luck there. The dishwasher also quit but I'm not replacing it. The fridge also needs replacing but I'm putting it off. No one to fix the mowers so I'm trying to sell them. I was expecting about 35000 but may have to give them away or if lucky in trade for yard work. Brian Hyland has tried to do the mowing with his Dad's mower but he fails to come often and it is expensive so I bought a new one which hopefully will do the trick. That about finishes my tale of woe thank goodness.
On the good side Kevin Lojak repaired the broken down west door frame this summer and did such a good job I got him to paint the house trim. He reputtied all the windows and cleaned them. Put up all new shutters and replaced rotted wood including the curlicues on the upstairs porch. He sanded all and put two coats of paint on all the wood. Also fixed warped floor boards. It was a pleasure to have a good and skilful worker. Don't think we've ever had one before except old Mr. Lee who was an artist with a shovel.
The yard is a jungle as I have been as I have been able to do so little the past three summers. Have hoped for years that I could find someone with a little knowledge and skill but no luck.
Helene and I had a great trip. It looks better and better in retrospect. We may do it again because we missed Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket because of bad weather. On this trip we visited some of her old friends now living in retirement places and loving the relief from chores they can no longer handle. It really showed me how far off the beam I have been in not wanting to go to one. Even if I spent all my energies on this place it would it would still be falling apart faster than I could do anything and is just as expensive as a first class retirement apartment. After trying to cope with my problems (see tale of woe above) I decided the time has come for me to leave Oak Grove for smaller more convenient quarters but I didn't know where I could get a place without a 3-5 yr visit. It must have been my lucky day because there was a newspaper ad about a new Goodwin House- West opening. Goodwin house East was so successful and their waiting list so long they built the new one, 700 apts, for the overflow. Lucille & I went to the opening and decided it would fulfill our requirements. I want to go now before I can't handle the change. She is several years younger and still working so won't go for a while yet.
The thoughts of moving scare me and I have little idea of how to get rid of so many things in such a short time.
Of course I have to sell the place to get the $82,000 down payment and I'd like to do it without selling to someone who will bulldoze the house down. Maybe give the house and smaller yard to the Park dept. or something similar.
When I told J M & Sheila they thot it the thing to do and wondered why I hadn't done it a long time ago.
Guess that is more than enough about me. How are you coming with work ie conservatoryship and/or anything else you can do to tide you over? Are there many jobs in St. Louis to be had or has the expected recession already arrived there? Are you still using your house as a lab and living elsewhere?
What is the latest on Accotink? I haven't heard from Andy or Lin Fitzgerald at all. I suppose there is no chance now of selling Accotink before Dec. 31, 87 to be able to take advantage of the last chance at capital gains. The tax on the sale is going to be a whopper without it.
I guess what you want for Christmas is money? I think it's ditto for J. M. & Sheila & me.
What I would like for Christmas would be a nice long letter from each of you!!!
I love you very much.
Mother"
1988
1988.03.08 (Jean OConnell to Anthony OConnell)
"March 8, 1988
Dear Tony,
I am very sorry about out misunderstandings on the telephone Sunday. I do appreciate all the effort, time and inconvenience you have put in the job of trustee and I know it will be a relief to you when both properties have been disposed of, For me it is the end of a wonderful happy era. If I could have chosen all over again I would have chosen the same place and constantly thank my lucky stars that I was able to stay here for so long. Hopefully all of you will be as happy in the environments you have chosen. Not that all was a bed of roses but that is not normal anyway and by contrast makes the virtues of the good situations so much more satisfying and meaningful. It is very hard for me to give up my unique piece of land which is so full of interesting and beautiful plant and animal life. Even if I were able to maintain it it is time to seek a place where life has more people about. Living alone tends to make me too self centered and I do not have the energy to keep up with the social life on my own.
Jean Mary and Sheila will both be here this weekend. If you would like to visit with them I'm enclosing the check you'll need. Richard is coming to help me get some things ready to go.
Love Mother"
xxxx.xx.xx (Undated) (Jean OConnell to Anthony OConnell)
"Dear Tony,
This is the important stuff. Didn't have time to go to the printers for a copy.
See you the 21st.(Editing note: "See you the 21st" probably refers to the real estate settlement scheduled for April 21, 1988)
Love,
Mother
"Rezoning Application RZ-86-L-073
Planning Com. Public
on Oct 1, 1987 at 8:15 p. m.
Board Room, A level of the
Massey Bldg. 4100 Chain
Bridge Rd. Fairfax, Va.
Bd of Superviors Public Hearing
On Oct. 19, 1987 at 4:00 p. m.
Same place.
RZ 86-L0-73 EGBA Limited
Partnership, application to
Rezone approx 261.80 acres
on West side of Beulah St, approx 700 ft south of it's
intersection with Crestleigh
Way from R-1 and NR to
PDH-4 and NR for residential
And related commercial uses and approval of the Conceptual Development Plan. Lee Dist. Tax Map 90-4((1))27
(Formerly known as 90-4-((1))-18,
pt. of 6) and 99-2 ((1)) 39A, 39B 39C, 39D.
Call Plan. Com. 703-691-2865
Bd. Of Supervisors 703-691-3151
To be placed on speakers list for hearing. For more details call 703-691-3387. Office Comprehensive Planning - Zoning Evaluation Div."
1988.08.12 (Jean OConnell to Anthony OConnell (draft))
"Dear Tony-mailed 8-13-88
Many things for the "lift" folders. Your man from St. Louis called me. He also called my man "Area Medical" - Franconia incidentally but moving to Falls Church- - My man was here yesterday to put a new arms arrangement on my Sierra. He described in detail how I could arrange the lift. One way would be using my present car (9 yrs old). And This would The lift would be in the trunk and I would have to remove the seat and steering rod. I tried while he was here to remove the seat but couldn't budge it. If I got a new car he suggested a Nissan stanza station wagon. (18,000 + lift of 2000). Which That seems much more than I want to spend. Also I would lose the back seat and have room for only 1 passenger. It's virtue is that it has a sliding door on the driver's side so is easy for me to get to than the a curb side door. Guess I'll run that thru my mind a few more hundred times. I had thot I would settle on a Plymouth Voyager until I heard they come in 2 sizes. The more powerful one would be so big I'd have parking problems. Haven't priced it yet but understand they are hard to come by.
I am sorry to hear your mind is not yet at rest about your decision to live in the house. Your worry about not having space seems to be a very big thing for you. (Space is such a out{ normal thing to want. I have always thot actors and politicians were the only ones who did not seek it.)
Your Dad and I always treasured our home especially because of that quality. It was extremely traumatic when the county forced the school there. (I do not out{ see why your therapist should consider a longing for space abnormal. Did you ever think about going to another therapist?)
I have not been on or by the property since you left and do not believe I could bear to go see it from what I have heard of the condition. I have left the water on and the electricity and paid for a tank of oil. Please let me know if and when you do not want either anymore. Please do not have it cut off yourself unless you let me know first. Hopefully you will at least water the boxwood so it can be sold when you need money.
I did not appreciate your having the tax bill for Accotink made out to you as owner and hope you will change it back as soon as possible. I have asked Ed White to be my power of attorney (required by Goodwin Hse West). So if you have things questions regarding the trust you can ask him. of I think it bothers you a lot to have me want to take care of my own affairs and it may be easier for you to do it thru him.
No change in the weather but it is still pleasant inside. Lots of people are away on trips but not finding it cooler anywhere.
Omit{My The Peelers who live on the other side of Lee H. S went to Emerald Isle & found it lovely. They went last year too. Their son arranged for the house which turned out to be the same one we had. A magazine with my address turned up from the sofa.
Have visited several apartments and they were beautiful - designed for entertaining. Mine looks very klutzy and countrified in comparison. The lady next door has a large one with wonderful antiques - her father had a shop! She has the best Many not only have lovely family antiques but exquisite things from their travels via State Dept., Agriculture Dept, or military.
I probably told you about the lady whose husband was curator of prints for the Metropolitan Museum in N.Y. Lovely antiques there including Belter chairs. Her daughter is conservator at the Freer Gallery and new Sackler. She said she The mother had told her you were a conservator (everyone talks about asked about their children). The daughter volunteered to introduce you to the people at those the galleries. N.YU. & Wash are in need of furniture conservators and she would introduce you. The man in N. Y. she says is tops in that field.
JM & Sheila will probably be here for a couple days in a next week. Jean Mary had to resign from her tennis tournaments because of cartilage damage to her knee. It's no more playing for her which is a shame as she liked it so much.
1988.08.12 (Jean OConnell to Anthony OConnell)
"Dear Tony August 12, 1988
Many things for the "Lift" folders. Your man from St. Louis called me. He also called my man at Area Medical in Franconia from whom I bought my scooter. He brought me new arms for the Sierra. He described in detail how I could arrange the lift. One way would be using my present car (9 yrs old). The lift would be in the trunk and I would have to remove the seat and steering. I tried while he was here to remove the seat but couldn't budge it. If I got a new car he suggested a Nissan stanza station wagon. (18,000 + 2000 for lift). That is much more than I can pay now. Also I would lose the back seat and have room for only 1 passenger. It's virtue is that it has a sliding door on the driver's side so is easier to get to than a curbside or rear door. Guess I'll run that problem thru my mind a few more hundred times. I had thot I would settle on a Plymouth Voyager until I heard they come in 2 sizes. The more powerful one would be so big I'd have parking problems. Haven't priced it yet but understand they are hard to come by.
I am sorry to hear your mind is not yet at rest about your decision to live in the old house. Your worry about not having enough space seems to be a very big thing for you. It was the most important thing we were looking for. Your Dad and I always treasured our home especially because of that quality. It was extremely traumatic when the county forced us to sell for the school.
I have not been on or by the property since you left and do not believe I could bear to do see it from what I have heard. I have left the water and the electricity on and paid for a tank of oil. Please let me know if and when you do not want either anymore before you have it cut off. Hopefully you can sell the boxwood when you need money - if you water them well.
I did not appreciate your having the tax bill for Accotink made out to you as owner and hope you will change it back as soon as possible. I have asked Ed White to be my power-of-attorney (required by Goodwin House W). So if you have any questions regarding the trust you can ask him. I think it bothers you a lot that I want to take care of my own affairs and it may be easier for you to do it thru him.
No change in the weather but it is still pleasant inside. Lots of people are but not finding it cooler anywhere.
Have visited several apartments that were beautiful - designed for entertaining. Mine looks very klutzy and countrified in comparison. The lady next door has wonderful antiques. Her father had a shop. Many not only have lovely family antiques but exquisite things from foreign assignments. I probably told you about the lady whose husband was the print at the N. Y. Metropolitan Museum. Lovely antiques and prints in her apartment including 2 Belter chairs. Her daughter is conservator at the Freer Gallery and new Sackler. Her mother had told her you were a furniture conservator so she volunteered to introduce you to the people at the Smithsonian and the expert in N. Y. She says there is a need of furniture conservators in those places.
Jean Mary had to resign from her tennis tournaments because of cartilage damage to her knee. It's no more tennis at all and she loved playing. Am expecting she and Sheila to be down next week or the week after.
As I told you before I have no problem staying away from your space but I do not sign things like you enclosed. Hope you sell soon. Love"
1988.09.06 (Jean OConnell to Anthony OConnell)
"Dear Tony Sept. 6 1988
It was a treat to have your letter and especially nice typed. I never know for sure if I have read your writing correctly.
Thanks for the copy of the Accotink tax bill. I had called them (the assessment office) to find out why I haven't received it. They told me the name had been changed to Anthony M. OConnell" but did not explain or say if you had paid it. I am relieved to know you did pay it. Do I understand correctly that you will be paying the other half in Dec? Anyway will you let me know when you pay it in the future as I do like to be sure its paid. The rate sure has gone up!
I am sure there will be an accounting of what the trusts owes as you suggested. Before tax time I have to have much information about what money has been put in the house since we bought it in 1937. I did the same when the county took land for the school.
We do seem to have a lot of misunderstandings.
When I said I did not want to see the place again I was not referring to how you had landscaped it because I haven't seen what you have done. I would like to have seen that but couldn't get there and that you had asked me not to trespass. It was the drought damage I was referring to - the dead umbrella pine (value 1,000+-) the magnolia trees damage. I do hope you can get there in time to water the boxwood and that you will sell it or use it something as it is quite a lot. You could check a good nursery like Hills just off Glebe Rd. to get an idea of the price and then advertise it for sale in papers - Journal or Post etc.
The "No trespassing" sign has been torn off your barricade. There are 2 tiny wisps of cloth left. I could not see from the road whether the place had been vandalized or not.
If you want some one to check it, fix sign, water boxwood etc. you could call Warren Hosaflock 971-2529 - near where Dodson's live. He can also mow with the Snapper. Did it once for me. He is a retired postman. He may have sold and moved by now.
J.M. Sheila and Andy were here the weekend before Labor Day. We ate lobster and crab cakes and shopped and shopped and traded clothes. It was a wonderful time.
I guess you must be having a difficult time selling your house and hope you have good luck soon. It must be very frustrating being all packed up and waiting. Have any nibbles.
I am enjoying myself more all the time. In fact have been so busy have missed many meals! It is a delightful way to live. Have signed up for a trip to Richmond Art Museum and a trip to Ken Center for "Tosca". Shopping with the girls finally bough a desk. Wish I had one years ago. It is a delight to have places to put things.
Received the rug. Thanks so much for sending it. Didn't expect it until you came.
Sorry you thot I resented your coming here. Quite the contrary. I think you should be here to take advantage of the prosperity and to enjoy your old friends and all the things there are that you are interested in.
You said you would like to air our misunderstandings which I think is a wonderful idea. I think it all stems from lack of information mostly. I would feel so much better if you could keep me advised of what you are doing with the trust and some of your personal plans - such as what you will be doing when you begin living here. Real estate- conservatorships or browsing for a different career. It would be so much easier if I knew what you were currently interested in. I try to keep everyone up on my main interests but think sometimes it is a waste of energy.
I also would like you to be at least courteous to my friends. They know you do not want them around so you may not see much of them. They are people who helped me when I was desperately in need of help and had no place to turn. Joanne especially was helpful. When Ed Prichard was going to charge me ¼ of your Dad's estate for his fee and Shalloway had a mental break down when he was going to work on the estate it was Joanne who helped me by explaining what I had to do. She did not want to be a co-trustee but I begged her and she agreed reluctantly tho she had never done it for anyone else. I still think you owe her an apology and a box of candy or bouquet of flowers.
Better late than never. And I would feel ever so much better. Please. Just treat my friends like you want me to treat yours.
Maybe that is enough for now and you can have time to let me know how you feel.
I do love you - you know
M"
1989
xxxx.xx.xx (Undated 2 page list with numbers) (Jean OConnell's memo)
"copy sent to Barbara Christian"
(See copy in pdf reference)
1989.08.02 (Jean OConnell to Anthony OConnell)
"Tues. Aug 2' 89
Dear Tony,
The drawer looks great. Haven't moved it into the bedroom yet but I am so glad to have it fixed so quickly. Many thanks.
Oak Grove is a very spooky place for one. This is probably the first time it's ever had only one. It changes wonderfully when there are people in it - especially a party.
At first when I was alone but with a dog I was really scared. Slept upstairs in the middle bed room and planned on using under the bed or whichever of the 3 doors seems best retreat if trouble came. Twice when I came home late and was too scared to go in I drove down to the police station and a couple of them came up and searched the house for me.
The 2 alarms I got from MRL on Fullerton Road in Spr, just off Blacklick going south just before you get to Shirley Hwy. He designed the Pentagon security I am told and had several things to offer me. I chose the least complicated. The one in the hall worked fine but the one in the barn had mostly false alarms as there are so many drafts. Hope you can find a better place in the barn area.
At night the most reassuring thing I had was the 2 vapor lights - SE and WNW. Along with the barn outside 2 lights - N & E patios I felt I could see anyone who came around and they couldn't see much of me as I kept only 1 light on where I was reading at the table as I could turn it off instantly if there was something I wanted to see outside. It never bothered a many looking fox who used to come and put his paws up on the bench by the door. At least I felt in control of the situation and could hear anyone on the rough roof. When I slept on the sofa I put the backs of the 2 chairs I had against the sofa and I don't think anyone could see me from the east window. At least I felt quite secure there.
Am going up to New Kensington for Howard Jr graduation party Sat. & home Monday or Tuesday as Lucille Shaw who is going with me or vice-versa.
A bit lively here lately. 2 robberies and 1 shooting. 45 caliber bullet thru window of 6 floor apt under my 11th. From area beyond fence near garden corner. Bullet thru window to ceiling & thru wall to next room & and found on sofa there. I like 11th floor even better now.
Have you been reading about St. Stephens school in the Wash Post? Don't know whether that means trouble here or not. Chairman of the Board of Trustees here is one of those ousted by the Bishop from the Bd of Ts at St Stephens.
Again many thanks. I love you very much - Mother"
1990
1990.01.23 (Jean OConnell to Anthony OConnell)
"Jan. 23, 1990
Dear Tony-
I am really thrilled to have my bed fixed and so much sturdier than it was since it arrived here. Had the best night's sleep ever and didn't get up until 9:00.
Many thanks for the chest and bed repair. Both are so much better than they were.
The check is a token of my admiration of your skills and your willingness to use it on my things -- and so promptly.
Even if I could find someone to do it I'm sure it would not be such a finely done job but would be such a horrendous price. I'd probably have to junk thje pieces.
I love you very much.
Mother
P. S. Are the snowdrops in bloom under the white pine and the yellow winter aconite where the 3 red stones and a locust tree are? They usually bloom Jan 21 and then the early crocus begin. If you want them out I could use them over after they have finished blooming. Because of the cold weather they may be late. The ones under the big oak should be 2 or 3 weeks later."
1991
1990.07.03(?) (4 pages of lists and figures) ((Jean OConnell"'s memo)
Example: " To Edwards [Stock Broker] $211, 589.67... .."
(See copies in pdf reference)
1991.09.15 Jean O'Connell died. She was a charter member of the Springfield Acres Garden Club and a nationally recognized landscape designer who did the landscape designs, without compensation, for:
- The Franconia Olivet Episcopal Church
- The Springfield Richard Byrd Library
- The Commonwealth Hospital in Fairfax
- The Louise Archer Elementry School
- Grandview Farmhouse and mini-pavilion, a National Trust for Hisoric Preservation property at Woodlawn
- A memorial garden in the National Arboretum
- The Northern Virginia Mental Health Institute
- The Woodbridge Methodist Church
- The 18th century Magruder House of the Prince George Historical Society
- The Wolf Trap Elementry School
- The Pope-Leighey House by Frank Lloyd Wright
- The Fair Oaks Hospital
- The Clifton Episcopal Church
- The Oakton Elementry School
- The 4-H Club Headquarters near Front Royal
- The railroad of the abandon W & O Railroad in Vienna
- The Springfield Junior Chamber of Commerce - commercial area plantings.
- The Knoll Garden, Goodwin House Bailey's Crossroads, in Fall Church
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