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Edith Bolling Galt and her husband Norman had one child: a son born September 22, 1903. The infant lived only two days, passing away on September 24, 1903. The child was never mentioned in My Memoir, the book penned by Mrs. Wilson in 1939. In fact, little is known about him. Very little related to his birth now exists. All that remains is a basket used to hold a baby blanket and clothing, each item a testament to a life cut much too short (see Images 1, 2a, 2b).​

Infant mortality was unfortunately quite common and a major concern both in Appalachia and across the United States during the time when Edith Bolling was young. Her older brother Charles, born June 2, 1871, died that same day. Her younger sister Geraldine, born August 12, 1885, did not make her second birthday.

Symbol of Loss: The “Baby Galt” Wicker Basket (1903) EBWB Museum Collection. Donated by Elizabeth Evans, 2009. Photo: S.C. Dinero

Causes of this condition varied (see Image 3). Fortunately, most of these issues have since been ameliorated throughout the United States and the pervasive and common nature of infant mortality has lessened considerably. Globally, however, the issue remains problematic, with rates in some countries that still rival those that existed in America at the turn of the 20th century (see Figure 1). ​

However, even the highest rates of infant mortality plaguing some countries of the world today – high as they may be – are significantly lower than those plaguing the U.S. during the time when Edith Bolling Galt bore the couple’s only son. Regardless, knowledge of these statistics would likely have mattered little. Death has a lasting impact. For these new parents, the reality of their own personal loss was most certainly a devastating blow that would impact them, their friends, and family alike.

Transcription of Letters

1504 Grace St
Lynchburg, Va
Sept 25th, 1903

My own dear Edith,

Of all the astonishing things that have happened this knocks me more completely off my feet! What a surprise you have given us! A letter from Ina this morning gives us our first knowledge of the great news, & we do not even know when the dear little nephew came or what his name is to be. We are delighted to welcome him into our hearts, and congratulate you both on having such a treasure. What a source of joy & happiness he will be to you! Kiss his dear soft little cheek for each one of us. I trust you are doing well and enjoying your wonderful possession to its fullest.

We long for a signal of you both. You must get somebody to write us about you, for we are crazy to hear.

Elizabeth [Bolling Powell, daughter of Annie & Rolfe, b. December 2, 1891] will be wild with delight when she hears the news – she is at school now – I will not tire you with a letter this time. With deepest love for all three and every wish for the health & prosperity for our dear little one.

Most Lovingly​

Annie [Annie Stuart Litchfield Bolling, Edith’s sister-in-law]

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1504 Grace St
Lynchburg, Va
Sept 28th 1903

My dearest Edith,

Hunter’s [Norman’s brother, Alexander Galt’s] letter has just come telling us of your loss and my heart aches for you in your sorrow. I can’t imagine the many plans you had made for the dear little one and how fondly you looked forward to the enjoyment of him. What can I say but that I love you so dearly and all that troubles and grieves you gives me sorrow and distress. My sympathy is deep for you both, & I wish I could help or comfort you in some way. I will take Hunter’s letter down to Rolfe [Bolling] a little later.

I am so thankful to hear you are gaining strength daily & trust your recovery will soon be complete & you, your dear strong self once more. Please get someone to let us know how you are doing from time to time. With tenderest love and sympathy for you both.​

Lovingly

Annie