Dan Shedd - My Stay at the Lark Ellen Home for Boys - 1938- 1941

My name is Dan Shedd. My brother and I were at the home from 1938 to 1941.

I just happened upon your articles on the Lark Ellen Home for Boys. My brother and I were in the home for a few years -- 1938 to 1941 -- while our parents were going through tough depression times and a divorce. Mrs. Cassidy was the director at that time and Mrs. Cameron was my matron in the "little boys" dorm. I, too, remember the beach trips in the old stake sided truck and the fireworks shows at the L.A. Coliseum. Ellen Beach Yaw, "Lark Ellen" died while we were there and we attend her funeral ar Forest Lawn. I have many memories of the home and reflect on them often.

They started a harmonica band one year and we played at the Lyons Club at the L.A. Biltmore each Christmas when they put on a special dinner for us boys and raised money for the Home. I was nicknamed "Ducky" because I talked like Donald Duck and put on short performances at the 20/30 clubs and Lyon's dinners. I always came away with a pocket full of change for my "duck" impersonation. Thank you for sharing a part of your experiences for an "old timer" to enjoy.

Contact: Dan Shedd at: dmentions@juno.com