Merry Christmas Eve.  To celebrate, my mom and I have been going over some of her family’s relics, while we sew and use the computer.  Here is one particularily special item she shared with me that I feel proud to be connected to in name and in blood…

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Who: My great-grandfather (grandfather of my mom, Mary Ellen Baskett)

When: Born October 10, 1893; died September 19, 1959

Where: Grangeville / Nezperce, Idaho

Married: Mamie Espya Stellmon, June 13, 1918 (she was born August 2, 1894 in Lapwai, Idaho and died July 27, 1976 in Cottonwood, Idaho)

Honored: Leslie was a music teacher at Nezperce High School.  The 1960 annual (Nezperce High School Warrior) was dedicated to him with this statement:

“Seldom, indeed, does one find in the life of a single person both diversity and superiority in services to mankind - in professional, civic, and religious fields.  And to such achievements an exemplary character - honest, just, moral, tolerant and understanding - and one has the essential ingredients of greatness.  Embodying all of those qualities, Leslie A. Baskett gave to Nezperce Public Schools two decades of the best years of his life in the outstanding instruction of music. The memory of Leslie Baskett will ever be enshrined in the hearts of those who knew him.  We the students of Nezperce High School, proudly and lovingly dedicate this book as our memorial to a distinguished teacher, a true friend and a dignified and great man.”