Celebration for 57 Years of Marriage of Ted and Sarah Mitchell

Congratulations to Ted and Sarah Jackson Mitchell who celebrated their 57th year of marriage on July 7th.  They were surrounded by their loving children and their spouses, Raymond, Pete, Merv, Brian, Keon, Dion, Lori and Al.  Many grandchildren and great grand children were also present to help enjoy the delicious foods prepared for the cook out.

It’s always interesting to find out where the couples first met so the couple was asked. Teddy was anxious to answer that question, “I first saw her at Trippany’s but I didn’t know her name. The following weekend she was there again and I asked a friend of mine, Lawrence.  He pushed me right at her and said you go and ask her!  I had no choice now but to ask her name. That is where it all began.”

Prior to this time, Teddy had already served in the army and was stationed in Maryland and Germany from 1950-1953. He began to look for a wife. It was about two years after coming out of the army when he met Sarah. When it became time to marry, the plans went into action for the couple.  The wedding took place in St. Regis on a beautiful day. Teddy’s Best Man was Robert Swamp (dec.), the late Harry Jacobs, the late Lawrence Herne, the late Paul Mitchell, and Harry Benedict.  Sarah’s party included Maid of Honor the late Nancy Hopps, Doris Cook, Cecelia Johnson (dec.), Mae Bigtree (dec.), and Florentine Mitchell Morgan.  The ring bearer was the late Bruce Jackson and flower girl was Cecelia Swamp King. The noon meal was hosted by Sarah’s parents, John and Anna LaFrance Jackson, now deceased. The supper meal was served at the home of Teddy’s sister the late Cecelia and Wilson Lazore.

Teddy had previously bought a home located behind Bears Den. This is where he took his new bride Sarah. She wasn’t aware that he had a home already for them, so it was a very nice surprise. The next surprise was when they crawled into bed, someone, a trickster had poured cornflakes under their sheets. Needless to say, they had a bit of cleaning to do before they could go to sleep.

Throughout the years Ted worked as an ironworker and traveled all over NY state with other men. He also did some firefighting duties when he wasn’t away at work. He built their present home on River Rd., Tsisnaihne. He worked 26 years as an ironworker until he was stricken by a stroke, unfortunately. Sarah’s life experiences beyond raising her children included operating her own home Daycare for young children. This was a very special daycare because Sarah only spoke to the children in our native language and the children actually became speakers from hearing it each day all day long.  Sarah also helped her sister Mae when she was still making baskets. Sarah helped by braiding sweetgrass. As Sarah’s health began to decline, she eventually went to live at Iakhihsohtha with other elderly that needed medical or physical attention. Being there has made her life much easier.

Again, it has been an enjoyable visit to both of you. Thank you for inviting me to the cookout and to be among the family on such a happy day.  Niawen for your time taken to answer a few questions to share with the community.

Congratulations!!