Prisoner of War mail, by Ruggero Bacci, to Mrs. Minnie Bacci, January 8, 1942

This handwritten prisoner of war mail in Italian, was sent by Ruggero Bacci, and is addressed to his wife Minnie Bacci, on January 8, 1942.

Bacci writes that he is happy to hear that everyone is well. He also writes that he wants to know the name of doctors she had recently visited and what presents they received for Christmas and from whom. He notes a parcel from Mrs. Magi (wife of released internee Massimo Magi) sent to Giovanni Giulio Ciacco, to be shared with other internees: Pietro & Antonio Danesi, Donato Sansone, Raffaele Ciarfella and Marco Missori. Bacci seems to be upset, writing:"for me personally not even a greeting for Christmas." Magi had been Bacci's employer and a strong supporter of the fascio. As a result, Bacci writes that his wife is to remain at home and not to visit anyone. He does ask how often she has visited Frank. Bacci writes (and it seems some sarcasm is intended) that on his return he will have to thank many friends, who have thought of him throughout his internment. He may be feeling abandonned by his former colleagues and friends.

Bacci also writes that he is devasted to learn of the ill health of his mother-in-law, apparently from a heart-related condition. He asks his wife not to visit him at camp, as it is bitterly cold (-35 degrees C). He says they can reconsider a visit in the Spring.

Bacci was interned for almost three years. In his absence, his wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. Bacci's oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials on loan by the Bacci family.