UPDATE: A remarkable collection of over 200 love letters from a World War II soldier to his sweetheart is now available for public viewing through the Nashville Public Library. This intimate glimpse into love during wartime offers a heartfelt narrative of romance, resilience, and the challenges faced by couples separated by conflict.
The letters, penned by William Raymond Whittaker, known as Ray, and Jane Dean, were discovered in a Nashville home belonging to Jane and her siblings. Donated to the Metro Nashville Archives in 2016, the collection provides a unique perspective on the couple’s courtship and eventual marriage amid the upheaval of war.
Ray, originally from New Rochelle, New York, moved to Nashville to attend the historically Black Meharry Medical College. It was there he met Jane, another student, before losing touch when he was drafted into the Army in the summer of 1942. Stationed at Fort Huachuca in Arizona, Ray reached out to Jane, who was working as a medical lab technician at Vanderbilt University.
In her response dated July 30, 1942, Jane expressed both joy and concern upon hearing from Ray. “It sure was a pleasant and sad surprise to hear from you,” she wrote. Her letter reflects the emotional complexity of wartime love, as she acknowledges the uncertainty of Ray’s situation while reminding him of their shared connections. “Write, wire or call me real soon — Lovingly Jane,” she concluded, highlighting the urgency of their communication.
As their correspondence continued, Ray’s feelings deepened. By September 1942, he hinted at a significant decision regarding their future, teasing Jane with the possibility of marriage. “I might even ask you to marry me,” he wrote, showcasing the blend of hope and humor that characterized their exchanges. Jane’s initial skepticism is palpable when she questions, “What makes you think you still love me?” Yet, Ray’s sincerity shines through as he recounts his experiences and frustrations with other relationships.
The couple finally married on November 7, 1942, in Birmingham. In a letter dated just two days later, Jane addressed Ray as “my darling husband,” pouring out her love while lamenting their separation. “It’s a wonderful thing to have such a sweet and lovely husband,” she wrote, expressing both joy and sadness over their circumstances.
The letters not only reveal a poignant love story but also provide insight into the racial and gender issues of their time. As Kelley Sirko, the library’s metropolitan archivist, noted, this collection offers a rare look into the lives of two ordinary individuals navigating extraordinary challenges during a tumultuous era.
As of now, archivists have been unable to locate any living relatives of Ray and Jane, meaning much of their story is encapsulated in these heartfelt letters. The collection also includes photographs and Ray’s patch from the historically Black fraternity Alpha Phi Alpha, enriching the historical narrative.
These letters are a vital reminder of the personal stories that lie behind the headlines of war, offering a glimpse into the enduring power of love amidst adversity. The Nashville Public Library’s digital display makes this collection accessible to all, inviting new generations to discover the profound human connections forged during one of history’s most challenging times.
For those interested in exploring this compelling love story further, the letters are now available online through the Nashville Public Library’s digital archives. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with history through the eyes of those who lived it.
