Just two days after registering for the draft, Erwin was in Detroit to enlist in the US Navy. He sent this postcard home to his mom. From the postcard it appears he went with at least one other person as he references “our” room. He also says it seemed like a very long trip. Today we can just hop on the expressway, drive 70 plus miles an hour, and travel from Grand Rapids to Detroit in just over two hours. But in February of 1942 Erwin would have had less than ideal roads, a slower car, and quite possibly poor weather during his drive. His trip may have taken twice as long!
Feb 18, 1942
Dear Mom,
Have just looked at our room. It is very nice. Seemed like a very long trip. Have to go to the new Federal building 9 o’clock A.M.
Note: The Hotel Tuller was constructed in 1909 and at the time was one of the largest luxury hotels in Detroit. The hotel came into hard times in the 20s trying to compete with other hotels and went bankrupt in 1927. It was saved from the wrecking ball due to the onset of the Great Depression. It was bought by new owners in the 40s and experienced a complete makeover in 1944. Sadly many years later it fell into disrepair and was closed in 1976. The building was demolished in 1991 and is now the site of a parking lot.
Ancestors Across the Ages 