Louie Mettler had this picture taken in San Francisco, Calif., after coming over from Switzerland to find work. He was born in 1894, and was the oldest of three brothers. He came to the U.S. when he was young to make money and support his family.
The young man had no idea that he would someday buy his own farm in the Northwest, settle in Ohop Valley, and raise a family there.
I try to image the conditions that would cause a person to leave their country, family and everything they’re familiar with, to travel to a country where they can’t speak the language and set off to find a better life. I don’t know how Louie (my grandfather) did it or all the others before and after him. But I’m thankful they did!
Here’s to that pioneer spirit.
Photo courtesy of Louie Mettler Jr.
Click on image to enlarge.
Eatonville To Rainier 