Dodge City KS

August 1946

Katherine and I were in Dodge City, finally together again after my eight months in Occupied Japan (October '45 - July 7, 1946). We were living with Katherine's folks at 1801 4^th Avenue in their new home. We were doing all kinds of chores to help them get settled. It was a jubilant period in all four of our lives. Cancer had not yet been detected in C.C.'s body.

 I had the money to buy a new car. It would be our first. But new cars were just not available. The auto industry was in the process of converting their factories to make automobiles instead of military vehicles, and new cars were in short supply.

Mrs. Isely asked if I would please go to the Dr. Pepper store and pick up a case of bottled drinks for her. I readily agreed. I would use C.C.'s 1938 Plymouth, a tan 2-door coupe, and take care of some other chores on the shopping trip.

The Dr. Pepper store was just a block away west of the C.C. Isely Lumber Company. I parked right in front of their main door and entered. No other customers were there. I said, "I'm here to pick up a case of Dr. Pepper." The man in charge answered, "Well, we don't have any to spare today."

I did not question his answer, turned and strode toward the front door. The shopkeeper looked past me and saw C.C.'s car parked there and inquired: "Hey, are you one of the Isely Boys?"

My answer was quick, "I certainly am!" Lying and smiling!

"Well, we have a case for you!" and lifted a case up from behind the counter, handing it to me. "Here you are. I'll put it on Mrs. Isely's bill."

"Thank you very much" and out the door I went. Mission accomplished. The Isely name had worked its magic in Dodge City and I was proud to be known as "One of the Isely Boys!"