Uncle Jack's Wedding Day

 

Uncle Jack's wedding, 1950

Dad, left, chats with his brother John, our famous family favorite "Uncle Jack." The brothers are looking dapper with their boutonnières, champagne, and cigarettes--an unfortunate trend back in the day. With a film noir look, they could be extras in The Great Gatsby film.

 

Dad, a newlywed himself, recently married our mom, Dorothy Hyett, on September 10, 1949. We're unsure of the venue here except that it would have in Sea Cliff, Long Island, NY. It looks like a private home, possibly of the bride's family. Since Uncle Jack looks tense and the brothers are smoking, maybe it's a pre-wedding pep talk from Dad?!

 

Uncle Jack was an intelligent, kind soul, and an incredibly talented artist. At his death, Dad discovered  hundreds of his pen-and-ink drawings in the attic (hence the name of the blog). Uncle Jack's drawings, sketchbooks, and paintings, with some photography, have now passed to our generation. Of his many themes, we've cataloged shore birds, ships, lighthouses, early aviation, and local scenes of Long Island's north shore. No doubt many were inspired by Uncle Jack's Coast Guard days and the brothers' own adventures in Sea Cliff as sea scouts.  

 

Best friends throughout their lives, these two young men overcame daunting obstacles together--from childhood into old age. Brotherly love at its finest. Cheers to you, Dad and Uncle Jack! We miss you dearly. 

 

Thanks to Peter Butler for photo and text, edited by Pat Butler.