Introduction to Lynch Clan

My Lynch ancestors from Ireland came to America in 1848. The group included my Grandfather James Lynch and his five siblings, ages 10 to 18, who sailed without their parents to New York City. Soon they were living in a tenement house in Massachusetts working in a textile mill. From there they gradually migrated west. This blog will contain information gathered by my mother, Hazel Lynch Skonberg from her father, giving details of the trip over and life in America. There is also a diary written by his son, Will Lynch, who was with the American Consular Service of the State Department, and was taken hostage on Dec. 8, 1941, by the Japanese Army who had captured Shanghai that day. I hope you enjoy this blog about the James Lynch family in America.
To receive these blogs by email, sign your email address in the space called Follow By Email, provided on the right hand side of the page. Roselyn George

Friday, December 30, 2011

WR Lynch WW II Diary Days 114, 115 and 116.

Will Lynch pays his Masonic dues (I never knew he was a Mason).  Talks to Consulate General Lockhart and Consul Stanton about taking care of the office property.


March 31, 1942.  Tuesday.  114th Day.

Robert Dollar Building  in old
Shanghai, China in 1920's
Notice "Rick shaw"
mode of transportation.
Click on picture to enlarge
   Nice weather.  No good news.
     Got a pass and went down town.  Saw tailor about repairs and 2 pairs Khaki pants.  All to be finished by Thursday, April 2nd.
     Paid Masonic dues, Chinese $35.00, to Mr. Phil Giovannini, Secretary, and I am to get receipt early next week.
     Looked in and kidded gang at American Association Relief, 7th floor of Dollar Building.  (This building, built in 1923, was the first home of Chinese Radio in all of China.  It was connected to American Radio, and quickly became very popular with the Chinese people).     
     Rummy score was 1-1 vs. JBS.


April 1, 1942.  Wednesday.   115th Day.
     Nice weather.  No particular items to note.
     Saw, for 3rd time, "100 men and a Girl" with Deanna Durbin.  Still good, especially the music.
     Beat JBS 1-0 at Rummy, taking the "super series".


April 2, 1942.  Thursday.  116th Day.
     Fine weather.  Beat Brookhart 4-0 at rummy.
     At dinner (supper), took up with Consulate General Lockhart and Consul Stanton, matter of wrapping moth balls in office rugs, putting property cards in safe, wrapping up house furniture.
     

Thursday, December 29, 2011

WR Lynch WW II Diary Days 117, 118, and 119.

Will Lynch celebrated Easter by attending two church services--Catholic and Russian Orthodox, even though he was Methodist.  Roselyn


April 3, 1942.  Friday (Good Friday).  117th Day.
     Fine Easter weather.
     Good news.  Rumor--fairly authentic--hath it we embark April 25th.  Let's hope.
     Had a pass today but did nothing in particular.  Beat JBS badly at checkers.


April 4, 1942.  Saturday  118th Day.
     Warm, but turned chilly and rainy.
     Saw "Wild Geese Calling" at Cathay.  Fair.
     Lost rummy 2-0 to JBS.  He was quite pleased.
     Wrote several business letters re change of address and payments.


Old St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox
Church in Shanghai.
Click on picture to enlarge
April 5, 1942.  Sunday  (Easter).  119th Day.
     Cold, quite.  Used heavy winter overcoat, but sunny.
     Saw good show at Grande--Bing Crosby in "Birth of the Blues".  Good fun.
     Got a pretty good leather suitcase, used, for Ch. $80.00 (about US$4.00) on Rue Bourgeat.  New, similar, are priced at 250/350.
     A.M. and I had a snack at New Winter Garden.  We had gone to Catholic Church for 11:00 a.m. Mass.  Good music.  Packed Church.  We stood up.  Then looked in on Russian Orthodox Catholic Church.  Quite different, but both have an ornate ritual.

WR Lynch WW II Diary Day 113.

Will Lynch goes out quite a bit, considering he is a "captive" of the Japanese.  He also keeps up with his investments in stocks in America, tells of companies taken over by the Japanese.


March 30, 1942.  Monday.  113th Day.
     Sunny and cool.
     At 14:45 a.m., met F.L.  We went to Canidrome and watched practice dog races.  Good fun.  Then to a small Chinese restaurant.  Thence to 2:30 p.m. show at Cathay.  "Hold That Ghost".  Had 2 "comps".  Back in Cathay Mansions by 4:15 p.m.
     No good new yet.  Today's papers show firms taken by Japanese as 16 American and 21 British.  I think that is incomplete.
     Tonight's paper carried item regarding Chinese Reserve Bank notes vs. Fapi (old legal Chinese notes).  Seems to be some snags.  A few days ago rate was CRB $100 vs Fapi 130.00. But it looks as if a change has been made.  It remains to be seen.
     ASPRO--one type of aspirin.  Comes from Australia.  Local agents, one Dodwells (Mr. Nielsen).  All local supplies were confiscated by the Japanese.  None available in local druggists.  One store offered to sell at Chinese $0.40 per pill.  My last purchase was a package of 27 for Chinese $5.00.
     Got letter, in duplicate, from C.D. Culbertson re 200 Techinicolor and 100 Corn Products.

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

WR Lynch WW II Diary re Japanese Take-Over in Shanghai China. Days 110, 111, and 112

Will Lynch comments that he has to pay for his room and board, even though he is being held by Japanese as diplomatic prisoner.  Roselyn


March 27, 1942.  Friday.  110th Day.
     Cooler.  Apparently repatriation to begin next month---unless.
     I am thinking of selling my radio for $ ??
     Beat J.B.S. 2-0 at rummy.
     Am tired of seeing most of the gang.
     Prices increased my dinky room 903 and board is Chinese $1,450.00 about US $80.00!


March 28, 1942.  Saturday .  111th Day.
     Cool--cloudy.  
     Saw "Of Mice and Men" by John Steinbeck of "Grapes of Wrath" fame, at Uptown Theater.  "Lousy", I thought.
     President Quezon of Philippine Islands was reported as assassinated recently.
     Evening Post tonight states Quezon is with General MacArthur in Australia, which is true.  Otherwise, tra la tra la.


March 29, 1942.  Sunday.  112th Day.
     Cool and sunny.
     Got a pass and visited Radio Corporation of Asia.  Was offered Chinese $500.00 for my radio, if and when I desire to sell.  Which is ok, as it is an old model and I have had 19 months' use.
     Thence to Y.M.C.A.  Went to Ballet Russe at 2:15 p.m. at Lyceum for Chinese $3.30, about US $0.18 for ballet Copellia by Delibes.  Fine music, excellent dancing and beautiful costumes.  Have seen it before and hope to again.
     War news continues "blue".

Tuesday, December 27, 2011

WR Lynch WW II Diary re Japanese Take-Over in Shanghai China. Days 107, 108, and 109

Will Lynch hears that they are to leave on a Japanese ship the end of April.  He doubts it will be on a Japanese ship.   Roselyn


March 24, 1942.  Tuesday  107th Day.
     Sunny and warm--too hot.
     Got a pass.  Retrieved a shoe that was being stretched at Hollywood Shoe Shop, Palace Hotel, Room 109.  
     Called on Captain Tornroth of Sea Captain's Shop.  He has given back most of his shop to owners, Ezras.  Someone is putting in a club.  Captain has two small rooms.  Got phone number 76470 of F Liu. 
     J.B.S says we are to leave on a Japanese ship the end of April for East Africa.  I doubt it will be via a Japanese ship.
     Lost rummy plenty today.  Brookhart 2-1.  J.B.S. 1-0.  Beat J.B.S. plenty at checkers.    
     
March 25, 1942.  Wednesday. 108th Day.
     Warm.   Nothing to report.


March 26, 1942.  Thursday.  109th Day.
     Cooler--sunny--nice.
     Got a pass, but as D.C.B. failed to take matter up with the Japanese, the key to room 406 was not brought over, I could not get in.  Some smart Japanese got fresh over matter of again entering the Consulate.  Matter is in abeyance until Tuesday, March 31st.
     Repatriation seems approaching, to leave about end of April---maybe. Here's hoping.
     Took 2 blue coats and one pair trousers to Wm. Yu for repairs.  Am getting 2 pairs khaki trousers for 2 x 50--Chinese $50,00 from Wm Yu.

Saturday, December 24, 2011

WR Lynch WW II Diary re Japanese Take-Over in Shanghai China. Days 104, 105 and 106.

Will Lynch gets passes to shop and eat out.  He continues to play various games to fight the boredom.  And, of course, likes to win.  Roselyn


March 21, 1942.  Saturday.  104th Day
     Sunny and nice.  Got a pass and took shoe to be stretched, got hair cut (Chinese $1.60 plus 40 cent tip--about US 12 cents.) 
     Good chow, a la Chinese, at Mrs. James.  Lena Ritter and Alice Murphy were there.
     No good news yet.   
     Wm. Yu will make me khaki trousers for Chinese $50.00--about US $2.75.


March 22, 1942.  Sunday.  105th Day.
     Quite warm.
     Got a pass.  Had lunch with Mr. and Mrs. James at Jimmy's Kitchen.  Roast goose, gravy, sweet spuds (potatoes) and bread with sweet potato flour.  Good.                 
     Walked down and back--about 3 miles or more.  Weighed 201 pounds.  Back by 3:30--tired.
     Returned to cribbage game.  Capt. West and Myself won 2-1 from Mr. McLorn and Miss Lambley.
     War news continues lousy.


March 23, 1942.  Monday.  106th Day.
     Rainy--dreary.  Stayed in all day.
     No outstanding news.  Radio and papers, as per usual, still claim Allies losing.  Who knows?
     Beat J.B.S. at checkers and rummy.

Friday, December 23, 2011

WR Lynch WW II Diary re Japanese Take-Over in Shanghai China. Days 101, 102 and 103

Life goes on during Will Lynch's captivity by the Japanese with boredom and wondering when repatriation will come.  Roselyn


March 18, 1942.  Wednesday  101st Day.
Cathay Mansions, French Concession,  in Shanghai,
where Will Lynch and others were held
as diplomatic prisoners in 1942.  It was the first
high rise apartment building in Shanghai,
built in 1928.  Click on picture to enlarge.

   Sunny and warmer.  
     Lost cards to Mr. Groves---cribbage 4-0 and rummy  1-0.  Am at a nadir on cards.
     Repatriation.  Looks like might be.  About May or June on some Swedish ship, the SS Drottingholm  (11055 tons) via Portuguese East Africa.


March 19, 1942.  Thursday.  102nd Day.
     Nice sunny weather.
     Beat Brookhart 4-0 at rummy and lost 2-0 to J.B.S.
     Capt. West, Mr. Mclorn, and Miss Lambley played cribbage.  Miss L. and Mr. Mclorn won 2-1.
     War news continues "lousy".  Paper and radio shows Japanese are plenty exuberant re what they propose to do.


March 20, 1942.  Friday.  103rd Day.
     Nice weather.
     No good news.
     Lost 2-0 and won 2-0 in rummy with Brookhart and J.B.S.

Thursday, December 22, 2011

WR Lynch WW II Diary re Japanese Take-Over in Shanghai China. Days 99 and 100

Will Lynch says soap and food are becoming scarce.  The JBS frequently mentioned as his Rummy partner, may be a Mr. Stanton who was Consul in the State Dept. in Shanghai Consulate.  I have read several wires between State Department Head, Cordell Hull and Consul Stanton written prior to Dec 7, 1941, expressing concern about the threat of the Japanese to Shanghai.  Roselyn


March 16, 1942.  Monday.  99th Day.
     Sunny and warmer.   Soap is getting scarce.  Bought 2 pieces of Palmolive for Chinese $5.20.
     Am reading "Grapes of Wrath".  Very interesting.
     Lost cribbage 3-2 to Mr. Groves.  Beat J.B.S both at cribbage and rummy.
     Food seems to be a bit of a problem--and increasingly so.
     Chan (his former house boy) failed to get the job.  I was afraid he could not qualify.  Probably feels I must support him forever.  "Jean" over radio tonight says she'll keep trying to land him a job.  I gave him $100.00 "fopi"  (not sure what that means) to change for Central Reserve Bank notes, but doubt if he'll make it.


March 17, 1942.  Tuesday.  100th Day.
     St. Patrick's Day.  (His father had emigrated to America from Ireland on that day in 1848.)  
     Good weather.  War news continues "lousy", but apparently U.S.A. and Co. are realizing they must "do their stuff", or else.
     Beat J.B.S. 2-0 at Rummy.
     Finished "Grapes of Wrath" and loaned it to A.M.  Finished "Morgan the Magnificent".
     Have an invite to Chinese chow next Saturday at Mrs. James.  She puts out a good Chinese chow.
     A.M. hopes to get in on repatriation--if and when.
     

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

WR Lynch WW II Diary re Japanese Take-Over in Shanghai China. Day 98

Some of the pictures posted on this blog were taken by Greg Davis, a grand nephew of Will Lynch, and son of my sister, Evelyn Skonberg Davis.  Thank You, Greg, for pictures taken on your recent trip to Shanghai.   These are pictures of the Custom House, mentioned in an earlier diary entry.  One is recent taken by Greg and an older picture taken in the 1930s photographer, unknown.   Roselyn


March 15, 1942.  Sunday  98th Day.
Shanghai Customs House, 2011
Picture by Greg Davis
Click on picture to enlarge




Shanghai Customs House, 1930's
From Shanghai History
Note that buildings are on shoreline of the River
Click on picture to enlarge



Cold.  Put my "longies" back on.
Got a pass.  Enroute to Foreign YMCA, met Bess Barnes and she insisted we go to Grand to see "Nothing But The Truth".  Not much of a picture.  Then we went to the YMCA and got some books.
     Came back to the Lyceum.  Think in future I'll take my music via radio, free gratis and for nothin'.
     Still no good news.

Sunday, December 18, 2011

WR Lynch WW II Diary re Japanese Take-Over in Shanghai China. Days 96 and 97.

Will Lynch flips a coin to decide when Allies will win.  As a Vice Consul, he seemed to have some privileges.  It appears A.M. has given up on this confirmed bachelor!   Roselyn


March 13, 1942.  Friday.  96th Day.
     Damp, cloudy and warm.
     Returned a book "The People's Choice by Herbert Agar, to Foreign Y.M.C.A.  Is a "thumb nail" sketch of Presidents Washington to Harding.  Very interesting.
     Then checked out "Grapes of Wrath".  
     Radio XMHC, Evening Post, on its evening "Help Thy Neighbor" program, announced it has a job for Chan, my house boy.  I'll send him to her, "Jean", tomorrow.
     War!  Gosh, seems Australians are all "Burned up".  I flipped a coin tonight and it seems Allies will win in 1943.  In the interim, we are stranded here?
     Asked A.M. to go to movie.   Declined.  Also declined to go to concert Sunday.


March 14, 1942.  Saturday.  97th Day.
     Colder--cloudy.  Got up too late for breakfast, so lunch tasted good.
     Beginning today, we register in and out at room 927, with Japanese Consular people.
     War news continues bad.  Nothing further anent repatriation.
     Hope I have landed a job for Chan--my Chinese cook, through "Jean" of SMHC of Shanghai Evening Post.
     Bunion on my right foot is increasing in tenderness.
     Donned a winter suit.



Wednesday, December 14, 2011

WR Lynch WW II Diary re Japanese Take-Over in Shanghai China. History of the Consulate General of the US in Shanghai, China 93, 94, and 95

Consulate History | Consulate General of the United States Shanghai, China





For the history of the American Consul in Shanghai, click on the above link.  When the Treaty of Nanking was signed, the Chinese were forced to open the port of Shanghai in 1844, which began an International Settlement of many countries in the Bund section of Shanghai.  The Bund is a mile long stretch along the river composed of many historical buildings beginning in that year.


I hope you can open the link above.


Roselyn George
rg12056@gmail.com

Monday, December 12, 2011

WR Lynch WW II Diary re Japanese Take-Over in Shanghai China. Days 92, 93, 94, and 95

Will Lynch does not write in his diary for 2 days--"nothing to report".  Then writes that elevator doors to 9th floor blocked--does not know why.  Roselyn


March 9, 1921. Monday. 92nd Day.  March 10, 1942. Tuesday.  93rd Day.
     Forgot to make entries.  Nothing to report.


March 11, 1942.  Wednesday  94th Day.
     Spring!!.  Warm and sunny.  Doffed my "longies".
     News?  All bad.  Looks bad.  Wonder if people on "other side" (The Allied Forces) are doing anything?


March 12, 1942.  Friday.  95th Day.
     Warm and some sun.
     9th floor of Cathay Mansions is occupied by Americans.  Access up to this morning has been unguarded, but today the elevator doors to 9th floor were blocked.  Reason is unknown.  Rumor hath it the doors will be unblocked tomorrow, Friday, March 13th! That'll make it a "Lucky Friday 13th".
     Mr. Lockhart gave a party 7:30-8:00 p.m. in his quarters 919-920.  A pleasant 1/2 hour.  Sufficient libations--18 present.
     Have asked for a pass for tomorrow.
     Lost rummy 1-0 to J.B.S. today.



Friday, December 9, 2011

WR Lynch WW II Diary re Japanese Take-Over in Shanghai China. Days 90 and 91.

Will Lynch hears that Java may fall and then Japanese will make a bid for Australia. He mentions "our cousins" referring to his father's sister and family who emigrated to Australia in 1848.  He meets with Swiss and Japanese Consulate people.  Roselyn


March 7, 1942.  Saturday.  90th Day.
     Sunny and warmer.
     Miss Renee Nieh called and we fixed up a letter to Service, Chungking, to accompany a message to Frank Gallop, C.B.S, N.Y. to deliver to Herby Gallop.  She seems a bit "sweet" on him.  Foolish gal.  She's got plenty on the ball.   Oh hum.
     In p. m., met Swiss Consulate man at U.S. Consulate and gave them Register and Articles of S.S. Ramona, a Panamanian ship captured by Japanese.  Berger, Sawyer, Hinke and 4 Japanese Consular people present.
     Seems Japanese will take Java, and then will make a bid for Australia.  Well, our cousins better waken. 
     Japanese removed many motor cars from Auto Palace, corner of Mercier and Bourgeat.


March 8, 1942.  Sunday.  91st Day.
     Sunny and nice.
     Very few motor cars on streets anymore, due to gas shortage and Japanese.  Streets much cleaner.  Many are walking and lots of bicycles.  Trans crowded.        
     Likewise movies, and many old films being revived.  Romeo and Juliet, revived at Roxy has run about 10 days or 2 weeks and at 2:00 p.m. today, I could not get tickets for 2:30 p.m. show.
     Today's papers had long item re repatriation of Americans, but seems British and Netherlands still unsettled.   Seems Java is about to "throw in the towel".  Then Australia is supposed to be next in line--mebbe (maybe).
     Has taken Allies a long time to get the idea re air planes.  Ho-hum.  Where's Billy Mitchell?   (World War I air pilot).




     

Thursday, December 8, 2011

WR Lynch WW II Diary re Japanese Take-Over in Shanghai China. Days 87, 88 and 89

Will Lynch is critical of isolationists, pacifists.   He goes to the Ballet.  Roselyn


March 4, 1942.  Wednesday.  87th Day
Bund section of Shanghai today by Greg Davis
Area where foreign countries have Businesses & Embassies  
 Wet but not cold.  Hard on beggars, those the cold winter did not kill.
     Japanese and Germans still claim to be winning.
     Wonder what our lousy isolationists, pacifists, and strikers now think? They should be slightly spanked, etc.
     Won 3-1 from Brookhart and drew 1-1 rummy with J.B.S.
     Repatriation!  Ah.  When?  If?
     Miss R. Nieh sent me a pound of Bakerite "Chews".  Very kind of her.




March 5, 1942.  Thursday.  88th Day.
     Forgot to make the entry.  Was rainy.


March 6, 1942.  Friday.  89th Day.
     Wet in forenoon.  
     Went to Russian Ballet at 2:30 at Grand, capacity 2200.  Full house.  24 piece orchestra was good.  So was the ballet.  All was a success.
     Was lucky to get 2 seats (2 x 3--Chinese $10.00--about US $0.55).  Balcony row 1, seats 6 and 8.  Best seats.  Had been returned tickets.
     Sun shone at 5:00 p.m.  
     In morning called on Capt. Tornroth,  He's all burned up.  He has Chinese $100,000 in S.P.C. and fears to lose all.  Had a hot toddy.
     Repatriation seems to be progressing.  Seems Batavia has fallen to Japanese.  




     

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

WR Lynch WW II Diary re Japanese Take-Over in Shanghai China. Days 85 and 86

Will Lynch sees part of down town Shanghai, China, cut off due to a bombing.  Roselyn


March 2, 1942.  Monday.  85th Day.     
Customs House Today--Picture by Greg Davis
Will Lynch  heard the clock chime from
his apartment  on Dec 7, 1941
  
  Wet, cold, lousy.
     Radios and papers report Japanese winning in Java, but claims too fantastic and exaggerated  for full belief.
     Lost 2-1 and 2-0 in rummy to Brookhart and J.B.S.
     Am finishing third volume of "George Washington" by Rupert Hughes.  Excellent work.
     No repatriation news.


March 3, 1942.  Tuesday.  86th Day. 

     Sunny and warmer.
     Went, with several others, to the Consulate and got several things.
     Saw a section downtown wired off, due to "bomb outrages".  Seems this is the Japanese method of punishing a section for not catching the perpetrator.  Japanese guards with guns at the ready stood by.  No entrance or exit was permitted.  Shopkeepers could do no business.
     War news continues no good.  We wonder how much is fact of our radio and paper news.

Monday, December 5, 2011

WR Lynch WW II Diary re Japanese Take-Over in Shanghai China. Days 83 and 84

Will Lynch, still a captive of the Japanese in Shanghai, says the Navy "had better get busy--or else".   Apparently the Foreign YMCA is still open in Shanghai.  Roselyn


February 28, 1942.  Saturday.  83rd Day .
     Fine weather.  
     No definite news yet.  Local radio and papers continue to publicize Japanese successes, but apparently meeting resistances in Java.  It's about time the U.S. Navy was getting busy and cutting out the talk.  The Navy has a job to do--or else.
     Also, the "New Deal" and our pacifists had best go into limbo--or some other place.


March 1, 1942.  Sunday.  84th Day.
     Wet, but not cold.  
     Had a pass.  Went to Foreign YMCA and got a book, "The People's Choice", re presidents of U.S.A.--Washington to Harding. 
     Lost 2-1 to Brookhart but won 2-0 from J.B.S. at rummy.
     E.B. called but A.M. didn't, which is o.k.
     Seems there is a big Navy battle on around Java.  Radio said Japanese are winning, per Jap's claim.
     Got bank statement showing my balance at National China Bank as Ch. $0.00.  It's correct, except I have a U.S. $7.34 balance.

Saturday, December 3, 2011

WR Lynch WW II Diary re Japanese Take-Over in Shanghai China. Days 81 and 82

Will Lynch comments on the fact that Shanghai is very different now.   Also has some words for American "pacifists".  After the war he married a retired teacher from America he had met when she was touring with other teachers.  Was this her??  Roselyn


February 26, 1942.  Thursday.  81st Day.
Cloudy and chilly, but February is about finished so there'll likely be no more long cold periods.
     No good news yet.  Radio and local papers claim Axis Powers, including Japanese, continue winning.
     Beat Brookhart 3-0 at rummy.  J.B.S. won 1-0.
     This old town sure has slowed down.  Very few motor cars.   Travel is by foot, bicycle or trams.  Gasoline is "few".  No foreign shipping.  Japs have taken over about all Settlement Municipal jobs;  also Customs job.  
     Hey Ho.  Wot a mess!


February 27, 1942.  Friday.  82nd Day.
     Sunny and warmer.
     News is not good.  Seems Los Angeles had enemy airplane scare.  Wonder what the Isolationists and Pacifists think now, especially a certain teacher tourist, who in 1938 told me I should return to U.S.A. and "get in touch" when I told her, when viewing devastated Shanghai, that "If you Pacifists had your way, we in the U.S.A. would be herded, as were the Chinese here". 
     Had tea with Pauline Meyers.  She has a husband in U.S.A.
     Beat Mr. Groves 4-1 at cribbage.  Lost acey-deucy 2-0 to Mr. Lockhart.  Tied rummy 1-1 with J.B.S.
     No news re repatriation.  

Thursday, December 1, 2011

WR Lynch WW II Diary re Japanese Take-Over in Shanghai China. Days 79 and 80.

Will Lynch writes that the weather is cold and room is chilly.  Continues to play card games, etc. to pass the time.  He also hears that California has been bombed.   Roselyn


February 24, 1942.  Tuesday.  79th Day.
     Colder. Cloudy.
     Bad luck at cards.  Brookhart won running 4-0.  J.B.S. 1-0 and at checkers 2-3.
     War news continues bad.  Looks like British might give way in North Africa.  No further news re repatriation.
     My tummy operation is a bit sensitive.  I must reduce my food intake.
     I find by filling my tub with hot water, I can keep my room warm, even after the heat "goes off" at 9:00 p,m.


February 25, 1942.  Wednesday.  80th Day.
     Wet, cloudy, nasty and chilly.  
     Mr. Calder threw a cocktail party in his room.  'Twas a success.
     War news continues bad.  Looks like F.D.R. (President Franklin Roosevelt) and his New Dealers will have a job on their hands.
     Shanghai Times is sending me 4 copies, the Consulate's subscriptions paid to June 30, 1942.  Have asked Evening Post to do the same.
     Seems California coast got bombed.  Local radio features.
     Local FFZ--French radio here, put a WERTHER--Massenet--9:30-11:00 p.m.  Excellent.  

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

WW War II Japanese American Relocation Camps. By Roselyn

    As you have been reading this diary written by Will Lynch during his captivity by the Japanese as an American diplomatic prisoner in Shanghai, China, you will have noticed he sometimes refers to the Japanese as "Japs".  This was very common during World War II, as Americans expressed a fear and mistrust of both the Japanese and the Germans.  And of course, he is very unhappy and somewhat fearful to be kept a captive, awaiting repatriation and the exchange of the diplomats between Japan and the United States.  
     After the Japanese planes bombed Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, on December 7, 1941, there was much suspicion in America of the Japanese Americans.  It was felt that they could pose a danger to America, though they may have been model citizens who had never done anything to cause suspicion. 
      The sad result was "in February, 1942, President Roosevelt signed an executive order, authorizing the federal government to relocate all people of Japanese ancestry who were living on the West Coast.  At great financial and emotional sacrifice, more than 100,000 people, many of them native-born Americans, were uprooted and sent to ten desolate inland camps.  Some 10,000 went through the gates of Amache, located near Granada, Colorado."  (Sandra Dallas in her book Tallgrass).
     It should also be noted that many of these Japanese American men volunteered and served in the armed services for America and some lost their lives in that service.     
     So, all the time Will Lynch was a captive in Shanghai, Americans of Japanese descent were also held captive in "camps" in several parts of the middle of America.  
     There have been many scholarly books and reports written about the Japanese relocation.  The book Tallgrass, by Sandra Dallas, is an excellent and very readable historical novel based on research about Camp Amache, (which she renames Tallgrass), the setting for this book.  It is told from the perspective of a local girl who lives on a nearby farm.  
     Another easily read book is Hotel On The Corner of Bitter and Sweet by James Ford.  This book, also historical fiction, is set in Seattle, Washington, and gives the point of view from Japanese Americans in that area.

Saturday, November 26, 2011

WR Lynch WW II Diary re Japanese Take-Over in Shanghai China. Days 77 and 78.

Will Lynch watches a large show of Chinese, directed by the Japanese.  There is an Avenue Voyron in France, so presumably this tea room on Voyron was in the French Settlement.  Roselyn


February 22, 1942.  Sunday.  77th Day.
     Mr. A. Lincoln's birthday.
     Cloudy but warm.
     At 3:30 tried to get tickets to Lafayette cinema for Jungle Cavalcade, second run.  Too late.  All sold out.
     Consul H.H. Smith has the mumps.
     Had Chinese tea and food at King Kong on Avenue Voyron.  Quite good.
     No good news yet.


February 23, 1942.  Monday.  78th Day.
     Wet and colder.
     Changed books at Foreign Y.   (A library?)
     Big--10 or 15,000 people, Chinese, directed by Japanese, gathered inside race course, waved paper flags, ostensibly a Wang Ching-Wei (A Chinese politician who supported the Japanese) demonstration.  Plainly inspired and forced rather than spontaneous, but if the Chinese mob psychosis had stirred, the situation could have been fraught with much possibilities.
     9:50 a.m.  Much thunder and lightening.  I thought the town was being bombed.  Rain was heavy.  Town got washed.

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

WR Lynch WW II Diary re Japanese Take-Over in Shanghai China. Days 74, 75 and 76.

The Chinese New Year celebration goes on in spite of the war.  Will Lynch is to get a passport.   Roselyn


February 19, 1942.  Thursday.  74th Day.
     Chinese still celebrating their New Year.  Ought to finish today.
     Sunny and warm.
     Japanese are to shoot off fireworks at race course tonight to celebrate their recent victories.
     No good news yet.  Except got an invite to Chinese chow at M.J's for Saturday p.m.
     Played cribbage with Mr. Groves, 3-3, but one was a "skunk" in my favor, so I have the "edge".


February 20, 1942.  Friday.  75th Day.
     Sunny and warm.  
     A.M. and I saw "All That Money Can Buy" or "The Devil and Daniel Webster" at Cathay.  Heavy stuff. (drama).  I prefer it not.  It's the old story of "selling one's soul for money".  
     Brookhart won 3-1 in Rummy, from 9:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. session.
     War News:   All bad.


February 21, 1942.  Saturday.  76th Day.
     Fine weather.
     Chowed, 3:00-5:00 p.m. at Mr. J's with 3 others.  Had a scare.  Had changed suits and forgot a leather coin bag.  Gosh!  But all is O.K.
     A.M. gave me an important and interesting scientific book.
     Beat J.B.S. 1-0 at Rummy.
     Will get my passport number and date.  Probably has some angle on repatriation for use by Swiss Consulate.
     

Monday, November 21, 2011

WR Lynch WW II Diary re Japanese Take-Over in Shanghai China. Days 72 and 73.

Shanghai, China, was a Cosmopolitan city that contained an International Settlement called "The Bund" before World War II.  It had been that way for years.  European countries settled in that area, in order to do business with China.  Areas also included embassies, etc.  Will Lynch speaks of the "French Settlement" and there were others for the U.S., British, German, etc., each with their own cultural customs.
Roselyn


February 17, 1942.  Tuesday.  72nd Day.
     Warmer but cloudy.
     Radio stated repatriation arrangements about OK'd., that we are to go via Portuguese East Africa ere long, but no definite time set.
     Mr. (Consul) Weil "threw" a cocktail party in his room 906 at 7:00-8:00 p.m.
     Owing to bombing terrorism in International Settlement, no passes are being issued by our "Captors", but to compensate for it our "restricted" district in the French Settlement has been enlarged, temporarily, I'm told.


February 18, 1942.  Wednesday, 73rd Day.
     Cloudy.  Not cold.
     Saw a Japanese van bearing WAKAMOTO (a sort of yeast) sign, going east on Joffre, emitting machine music of sorts.  Pamphlets were scattered.  Am told they were propaganda re Japanese victories.  Populace seemed indifferent.
     News now is that Japanese are pressing on.  
     We apparently can walk around the French Concession unrestricted.

Friday, November 18, 2011

WR Lynch WW II Diary re Japanese Take-Over in Shanghai China. Days 70 and 71.

Will Lynch hears that Singapore has fallen.  There is a lot of worry and concern among the hostages.   Roselyn


February 15, 1942.  Sunday.  70th Day.
     A bit warmer.  Sunny.  Most of snow melted.  
     Had a pass.  Went to Ballet Russe at Lyceum at 11:00 a.m., with Dr. A.M.  Then to chow at a "dump" called European Restaurant.  Chow was "working man" type.
     Then about 4:00 - 5:00 in my room.  Then for a long walk.
     I hear there have been more bombings on Nanking Road and am requested to "stay away" from there.  JBS says his pass was cancelled on account of it.
     Radio says Singapore capitulated this evening!  Ye Gods!
     Chinese New Year.  Chinese will celebrate about a week, as per usual.


February 16, 1942.  Monday.  71st Day.
     Warmer and sunny.
     Bad news about Singapore.  Wonder what the U.S.A. now thinks?  Our pacifists!  Gosh!
     Wonder what is the status of our repatriation.  Some of the gang, both British and Americans, say we are here "for the duration".
     Looks like the Allies will have to get busy.
     "Blue funk" here is thick.
     

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

WR Lynch WW II Diary re Japanese Take-Over in Shanghai China. Days 68 and 69.

Will Lynch is approached by a "strange" character trying to get back to America.  Roselyn


February 13, 1942.  Friday.  68th Day.
     Coldest so far.  Woke about 4:00 .m. and had to don a pair of "longies" and close window tight.  
     At breakfast the talk was chiefly by staff who have lost personal cars to Japs and how to get paid.
     On returning to my room, was met in the corridor by Dr. Erben, a naturalized strange character.  Said he wanted to "get back to U.S.A." on a Portuguese passport he could buy and wanted advice whether such might "queer" (give problems) to his American nationality.  I declined to advise, and JBS told Erben to register first at Room 927, Japanese liason office, before he, JBS, could talk with Erben on the subject.  It is a strange case, and I wonder what is Erben's real purpose.
     A.M. called in afternoon.  Darn.  News gets worse.


February 14, 1942.  Saturday.  69th Day.     
     St. Valentine's Day.  I got no Valentine.
     Snowed.  Good omen, per Chinese, as tomorrow is Chinese New Year, via lunar calendar.
     Cold, cloudy, overcast.  Hard on the beggars.  Many perish.
     Beat Mr. G. 3-2 at cribbage.  Beat Brookhart 2-0 at Rummy.
     Much conviviality at dinner tonight.  Had turkey.
     War news is bad.  What next?  Is it via the Russia of 20 years ago?  God forbid.
     Had roast turkey on tonight's menu.  (Games to pass time and food were important to the captives--Roselyn)
     

Monday, November 14, 2011

WR Lynch WW II Diary re Japanese Take-Over in Shanghai China. Days 65, 66 and 67.

Will Lynch gathers bedding for destitute Americans in Shanghai.  Roselyn


February 10, 1942.  Tuesday.  65th Day.
     Cold.  Walked in morning and afternoon down Cardinal Mercier to Rue LaFayette, thence to east end of French Park and back, a total of about 2 1/2 miles.
     Am still reading "G.W." by R. Hughes.
     Beat JBS 2-0 in Rummy.
     No news re repatriation.  Japs claim their troops have landed on Singapore Island, and will ere long take Singapore.  If they do, it'll be bad for the Allies.
     German radio local broadcast claims they are winning in North Africa and Europe, but their claims are a bit too one-sided to my mind, to be all truth.


February 11, 1942.  Wednesday. 66th Day.
     Sunny but very cold.  My room is cold, and I have to keep on my overcoat.
     Walked out both morning and afternoon.  Beat Brookhart 3-0 in hard fought Rummy.
     Radio claims Singapore about to fall.  American dollar is quoted at 17.20, highest for some time.
     Shanghai American School (SAS) is being readied to care for destitute Americans.


February 12, 1942.  Thursday.  67th Day.
     Cold, sunny and nice--if warmly clad.  
     Got a pass, got some bedding from my gear in room 406 at Consulate, to wit:  3 blankets, 2 or 3 towels, 4 sheets, 3 or 4 pillow cases.  Brought them to Rte. Legendre, Passage 316, House 3, for A.M., a refugee.  
     Walked many miles.  Am tired.   War!  looks bad.  Apparently Singapore has fallen to the Japs.

Saturday, November 12, 2011

WR Lynch WW II Diary re Japanese Take-Over in Shanghai China. Days 62, 63 and 64.

Will Lynch visits an American school that is making preparations to take in Americans who need a place to stay.  Picture of him was taken a couple of years before he became a diplomatic hostage in Shanghai, China.    Roselyn


Will Lynch ca 1939
Click on picture to enlarge


February 7, 1942.  Saturday.  62nd Day.
     Excellent Chinese chow at 4:00 p.m. at M. J's, 10 Petain.  Four femmes (females) and me.  I omitted chow at hotel at noon, and by 4:00 p.m., I was ready.  Ate my fill--plus.
     Visited American school near our host's house.  Preparations being made to take in Americans who are "up against it" against their agreement to pay later.
     Rainy and cold.


February 8, 1942.  Sunday.  63rd Day.
     Sun out a little in morning.  Saw Japs helping (looting) brothel of Akron O.--American--at foot of Cardinal Mercier, near LaFayette.  Weil was with me.  
     A bit cold.


February 9, 1942.  Monday.  64th Day.
     Nine weeks ago this morning began this fracas.  Japs claim to be winning everywhere.
     H. Smith in 812, "threw a party" 7:00-8:00 p.m.  Much demon liquor.
     Walked out in the "free zone", both morning and afternoon.
     I am to get bedding next Thursday at 10:30 a.m., from room 406 in Consulate for use at American School.  (It was opening for Americans needing a place to stay).  
     I am reading Ruper Hughes' "George Washington".  Very interesting.  Old George was a human and a bit of a sport.
     Talk of repatriation seems pessimistic.






     

Friday, November 11, 2011

WR Lynch WW II Diary re Japanese Take-Over in Shanghai China. Days 60 and 61.

Will Lynch writes that they are given a little more freedom.  Is reading an interesting book about medical research.    Roselyn


February 5, 1942.  Thursday.   60th Day.
     Cold and sloppy.  Walked a bit.  Called  (??????-can't read).  
     Seems we can now go to Cathay Cinema without a pass.  Several today saw "Alamo of the South Seas", a la Dorothy Lamour.
     Lost cribbage today to Mr. Groves, but nearly missed skunking him one game.
     News?  American via KGEI would indicate Navy is active but local Domei (Jap) Havas (French-German controlled) and Transocean (German) show Axis powers are winning.  Corregidor still holds--so does Singapore.
     Am reading a most interesting book, "Microbe Hunters" by P. deKruif.  I have lots of reading time on my hands--more than my eyes can stand.


February 6, 1942.  Friday.   61st Day.
     Cold but no rain.   Cloudy.  No sun for many days.
     Walked about 2 miles or more today.
     Local radio and papers claim Japs and Germans are still winning but give hardly any news of what Allies are doing.
     Our "free zone" is now extended to two blocks more west on Joffre.
     Finished "Microbe Hunters".  A most interesting book.
     Turned in my census card today.  Seems a census of Shanghai is being taken.

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

WR Lynch WW II Diary re Japanese Take-Over in Shanghai China. Days 58 and 59

Will Lynch goes out on a pass to eat and see a movie.  Hears that they may have repatriation in the ocean outside of East Africa.  Not pleased.   Roselyn


February 3, 1942.  Tuesday.   58th Day.
     Very cold.  Bought a large bottle of Listerine for Chinese $22.50.  Had "liberty" today.  
     Sold binoculars for Chinese $250.00 (about US $14.00), and gave Langley Chinese $20.00 for putting the deal over.  Originally cost, in 1936, Chinese $70.00 or about US $21.00.  I can use the present money better than the binoculars.  They were not strong enough, to wit, 6 x 30   E. Leitz, plus leather case.
     Had Chinese chow at Sun Ya with A.M.  We'll likely have Chinese chow again next Sat. Feb 7th, at May James'. 
     Saw movie today at Nanking, "Father Takes A Wife". A. Menjou and Gloria Swanson, fair comedy.
     JBS won at Rummy 2-1.


February 4, 1942.  Wednesday.  69th Day.
     Cold and sloppy.
     Paper says arrangements for repatriation via Lourenco Marques, East Africa, progressing.  Some of the gang don't relish such a long trip and possibilities of being sunk, to say nothing of shark infested waters.  Ugh!



Thursday, November 3, 2011

WR Lynch WW II Diary re Japanese Take-Over in Shanghai China. Days 56 and 57

Will Lynch and other Consular people are put in the top floors of another hotel.  Roselyn


February 1, 1942.  Sunday.   56th Day
     We're still (settled?).  British have 6,7 and 8th floors.  They have wives and babies.  Americans have 9th floor.  All of us are fed in one small dining room.  Some eight of us Americans have put 3 or 4 tables together and dine "a la gang" (meaning together).
     Met two British gals today.  Seem to be governesses--and an affable sort.  
     We have a free zone of several blocks, including French Park, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.  Otherwise, must get a pass, applying a day in advance.
     Food is better here at Cathay Mansions than at Metropole Hotel.  Dining room is on the 11th floor.


February 2, 1942.  Monday.  57th Day.
     Walked this a.m., alone for an hour, and in p.m. with Brookhart in the "free zone".  Drizzily this morning.  Beat Brookhart badly at Rummy in afternoon--much to his chagrin.
     Am going out on a "pass" tomorrow.
     Colder.  Lots of beggars perish on the streets.
     Papers say Marine, formerly at Peking and Tientsin, are to arrive shortly.

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

WR Lynch WW II Diary re Japanese Take-Over in Shanghai China. Days 54 and 55

As you can see, Will Lynch was an avid game player and was not a gracious winner!  He spends time packing for the move to another hotel the next day.   Roselyn


January 30, 1942.  Friday.   54th Day
     Sloppy out, but streets dried by night.  
     Beat Mr. Groves 4 straight at cribbage.  Three were "skunks".  One was 3 holes short of a "double skunk".
     Move tomorrow to Cathay Mansions.  Packing tonight.  Dambdest job.
     Finished packing about 12:00 midnight.  Shaved.  No hot water.  Heard Customs clock strike 2:00 a.m.
     Set my Baby Ben for 6:50 a.m.   ( From Roselyn--Baby Ben was a small alarm clock.  I took one to college with me and still have it).


January 31, 1942.  Saturday.  55th Day
     Alarm clock alarmed as per 6:50 a.m.  
     Baggage smashers called 8:00 a.m. and got my nine pieces of baggage.
     I had tiffin (luncheon) at Metropole and with 2 Consular Japs and 4 or 5 others of U.S.A.
     Consulate came by crowded French bus to Cathy Mansions and arrived about 3:00 p. m.  My room is 903, too small.  Stanton says he thinks he can arrange to change to 605, a much nicer room.  I'll inspect first.
     A.M. called.  
     Inspected 605, but it seems to be occupied.
     Opened a can of Chesterfields, 50s.  (Cigarettes?).  I'd had for over 2 years.  Were in good condition.
     Registered at hotel desk and filled in several cards.  Required to show my occupation.  So I put down "diplomat".

Friday, October 28, 2011

WR Lynch WW II Diary re Japanese Take-Over in Shanghai China. Days 52 and 53

Will Lynch hears reports of Japanese ships being sunk.  Will move to another hotel.   It seems boredom brought with it lots of drinking.  Roselyn


January 28, 1942.  Wednesday.  52nd Day in the Jug.
     Sunny and warmer.  Rumor hath it, via short wave, that Allied subs have sunk 27 Japanese transports in Nakassar Straits, but tonight's local broadcast, via FFZ, the French station, made no mention of it, but asserted Japanese were "advancing on all fronts according to plan".
     Beat Brookhart 3-2 at Rummy.  He got so tight on his new blend that he could not finish the last game, but the score stood 50-180 in my favor. 
     His new blend is a mixture of vodka and Cherry Brandy.  He praises it as a good drink, much cheaper than whiskey.  It, I opine, would be good varnish, or possibly a disinfectant, providing it did not destroy the users' intestinal linings. 
     I left him sitting in my room and went down to dinner at 8:45 p.m.  When I returned at 9:10, he had gone.  JBS won a game 370-265.


January 29, 1942.  Thursday.   53rd Day.
     We are definitely to move to Cathy Mansions on Saturday, January 31, 1942.  I get room 903.
     Nice weather.  AM called.   Gave Chinese $100 as a loan.