Mabel Youngblut/Slater’s WWII Scrapbook
A Glimpse into Local Heroes' Lives
Preserving the Legacy: In May of 2023, Nick Miller, grandson of long-time Oran residents, Lawrence “Fat” and Mildred Youngblut, generously donated a treasured scrapbook to our community. It's a gesture that allows us to take a remarkable journey back in time as we open the 160 pages of a WWII scrapbook created by his grandpa’s sister, Mabel Youngblut/Slater. We can immerse ourselves in the stories, letters, and mementos that were carefully preserved by Mabel. Each page carries echoes of valor, longing, and the unbreakable bonds that formed between those who served and those who awaited their return. Nick is the son of Janet (Youngblut) & Dave Miller.
A Heartfelt Connection: Mabel was the daughter of Frank & Anna Youngblut, owner’s of Youngblut Hardware. Mabel was the oldest of her siblings: Josephine, Leo, Burton, Margaret, Lawrence (Fat), Frances (Tuff) and Helen. Mabel, the Oran postmaster during WWII, played an essential role in maintaining connections and spreading hope during the war. Mabel’s dedication to the cause hit close to home, as her own brother, Fat (Lawrence) and her fiancé, Nick Slater were among those who were valiantly serving.
As the war raged on, Mabel recognized the significance of maintaining connections with those who were bravely serving on distant shores. Through her letters, she provided a lifeline for soldiers who were longing for news from home. Her genuine empathy bridged the gap between the battlegrounds and the home front, reminding our heroes what they were fighting for. The scrapbook offers a poignant insight into the sacrifices made by local families.
A Gift to Our Community: This WWII scrapbook isn't just a collection of faded photographs and yellowed letters; it's a living testament to the enduring spirit of our town. It reminds us of the strength that can be found in unity, compassion, and the unwavering support we offer one another during challenging times. As you explore the pages within, take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made by our local heroes and the love that transcended the boundaries of war.
Join in this journey of remembrance and dive into Mabel Youngblut/Slater’s WWII scrapbook. Let these stories inspire, honor, and remind us of the remarkable individuals who shaped our history. Their legacy lives on through these pages and in our hearts.