I agree with you that it wasn't that uncommon. My father had a little more schooling, but, really not sure how much. He left in 8th grade to help on the farm and his schooling before that was sporadic. He went to school in the Pennsylvania Dutch part of PA

He was fortunate he got as much as he did.

I am trying to work out in my head whether the man/child had an advantage or disadvantage in life. They seemed to carry responsibility much better and there was a maturity level we lack today. Having said that, technology among other things have grown in its presence or lack of.

Oh!!! Thanks for the spoiler alert! You totally rock these stories!!!! Thank YOU!!!!