Note 19 — NEGROES IN DOMESTIC SERVICE IN THE UNITED STATES[A]
Reading edition
Five Sample References for Domestic Workers and one Letter from an Employer, Washington, D. C.
Woodford Land, Va.
Lillie worked for me for a long time and she is a nice worker and a fine cook and she worked for Mrs. —— three years going on four, and she got married there with them and she worked for Mrs. —— and she nursed Mrs. ——'s three children.
From Mrs. ——
The following reference is for Fannie B.—who, evidently half crazy, changed her name after registering at the Washington office because she said she had so many "Enemons" (enemies).
To Whom in May Concern:
This is to certify that Fannie B has been a trustworthy maid. As to her honesty none come no better. She is very capable and in general very satisfactory.
Mrs. ——
To Whom it May Concern:
This is to say that Sarah —— has been in my employ 8 months and that she is a good cook, tries hard to please, and has been nice always to the children.
She has been honest and reliable and likes to try new or fancy dishes.
Signed——Mrs. E. M.
(The foregoing Mrs. E. M.'s name and telephone number were given to another lady who had interviewed Sarah relative to offering her a position, Mrs. E. M. told the second lady that Sarah once stole things but she had had a good lesson so she thought she would not steal any more. She also said that Sarah was none too clean, and that she gave the girl the above reference because she thought she had improved greatly.)
Sarah Jackson held a domestic worker's certificate bearing the golden seal of a Washington, D. C., Federation of Women's Club.
The X Federation of Women's Clubs awards this certificate to Sarah Jackson for 13 years faithful service in the employ of ——
Signed,
Mrs. —— President, Mrs. —— Chairman Home Economics Dept.
Robert and wife, each about 40 years of age, bring this written reference from a southern town:
This is to certify that I have known "Shine" and his wife for about a year, during which time he has been running a shoe shine establishment in this town. "Shine" is a steady, alert, energetic boy and I feel sure he will please his employer in the work in which he is given a trial.
Signed, H. C. L.
(Letter to the Employment Agent from an Employer.)
My dear Mrs. X.
I fear you think I am very hard to please but having had a butler for 38 years, since dead, a maid and a cook 32 years, since married, it cannot seem that I am, when I once get the right one.
The last girl you sent me Anna by name disliked very much being directed or being spoken to. I am giving her up for she has a most violent temper, the most impertinent person I have ever seen. In a way I am sorry for her. None of us think she is all there. Will you try again for me?