EE-2-h-1a – 1e
Letter to Valerie Jones from mother Nelma Jones, September 1978
Peoples Temple, Georgetown
Sept. 1978
My dearest Val
I certainly hope my abrupt departure will not have any effects on you. I’m hoping that your new life is to [your] liking. Apparently so, are you would not still be here. I only wish you success and happiness in all of your endeavors. I certainly wish you the best in your marriage, to whatever his name (Jim or Tim). That is, if you are married. You said yes and when he & I talked alone, he said that you had not completed everything here to get married yet. So how am I to know. But after all it is not for me to judge whether you are married or not. To condemn or condone any part of your life is now beyond my control. You are a young adult now. I’m hoping you’re capable of making your own decision, which I now have reservations about. But after all you are your own young woman, allegedly married, and the two of you will be making then together now and in the future, if permitted.
I had great hope of finding you in good high spirits upon my arrival. But to me, that first night I got nothing but negative and low vibrational spirits from you. Of course I could have been wrong, but my opinion will remain that way. I certainly hope I am wrong. You said you were happy, everybody said you were happy. What else am I expected to believe, except you are happy. But I sincerely don’t believe you are, but it’s your life. In Jonestown I was accused twice, negatively about our relationship, mother and daughter, that is. First, I was unable to cut loose the umbilical cord attachment, and you and I must certainly have had a bad relations. Neither did I try to prove or disprove. For you and I alone know the answer. Oh, it was said I did not want to let you go for my mother’s apron strings, for little do they know, how and where and who you lived with during your growing up years. I will not try to defend my love for you to anyone, but you, if need be. Those people are not an important factor in my life, only you are. I really could go on and on about many things that we should have been able to discuss at length, but since I am sure this as well as your other letters are read before they reach you I will refrain. I will say this though. I’m going to make another trip this way so that you and I can talk, if you wish, and if you are permitted to come. In January, I will let you know exactly when. I will come to Trinidad. Will you come? That is, will you be permitted to come? I will come for 2 weeks, especially and only to talk with you. I’m coming in January, because I understand you allegedly are starting to school in Feb. I say alleged because you were supposed to start to school in September. So I can only speculate on [how] they have your life outlined for you. I say outlined because a couple of things were also brought out to me apparently you have knowledge concerning you. I’ll let that rest.
Let me know the exact date, you’re allegedly going to start to school and I will schedule my vacation accordingly. Please let me know well in advance (as soon as possible) so that I can assure my vacation. If this meeting cannot be arranged, I’m sure we won’t ever meet again. This hurts me more deeply than you can ever realize. For I will not be returning to Jonestown ever, and from your answers to me, you won’t be coming back to the US. So if that’s the way it’s to be, I’ll have to accept it. I have no choice but to accept. We’ve tried to raise you to be a strong independent woman and hope you can be that in Johnstown.
Well, I guess I’ll close now, you are probably tired of reading. I do have so much more I wanted to say to you. But all I will say is this: Val, my daughter, I love you very intensely and hope that the saddest days of your future, be no worse than the happiest days of your past. Write if you can and wish
Your mother (?) Nelma Jones
P.S. If you’re ever in real need, write to me in my complete name or your brother’s name
I’m going to Houston today and I’m going to ask my brother, your uncles (?) Julius and Richard to come and visit you, if they will. If they feel my opinion about the place is wrong, I will be at peace, if not, I will be heavily burdened, as I am now.
[Photocopy of envelope addressed to “Valerie Yvette Jones, Jonestown, Guyana,” without postage or return address]
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EE-2-h-2
Undated Note to Jim Jones, likely from Gloria Rosa
Jim,
I sent a letter to my mother at the last minute before Terry Buford left. I had Sarah [Harriet Sarah Tropp] & Terry clear it. I also sent a picture of myself & Kamari. Sarah said the letter was good & positive. I won’t do it again.
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EE-2-h-3a
Undated Note to unknown recipient from Sandi Cobb
Tell Hazel [Newell] and Herbert [Newell] hi!
If you don’t throw this away at least put it away in a safe place in my loft. I don’t trust your house to hold my feelings in.
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EE-2-h-3b
Undated Note to unknown recipient, likely Cleveland Newell, from Sandi Cobb Jones
[Editor’s note: The beginning of this letter has not yet been located. The first paragraph is typed, with the balance of the note handwritten.]
Well I guess I still have more to say. If you knew that I thought I was pregnant why didn’t you ever try to come to talk to me at the radio and see how I was doing. The more I think the more I figure out why you did what you did to me. Tell Leslie [Wagner Wilson] to send me a letter with somebody too she can explain this to me I trust her more anyway. I use [used] to trust you but I don’t see why I should do that now. Also tell her to send my suitcase back to me, maybe she can send the letter in that wrapped up in something then I’ll be sure to get it, as long as she gives it to someone to bring. Well I guess that you don’t want to hear whatever else I have to say it’s probably not effecting you anyway.
You have no doubt kissed off whatever I am, could be or was, and tried for something better in your mind and no doubt this is all a waste of time but don’t you think after what I gave – not body etc., my honesty, concern, and my love – (which was not enough) that you at least should try to explain yourself in some way. I don’t think it’s asking too much if it is just forget it. Tear this shit up when you finish reading. I must be a fool or easy sucker ‘cause I thought someway somehow it could’ve worked out but I was wrong and now I understand I didn’t have that much to offer you. And whatever you had to offer, you didn’t want to, and I accept that for whatever the hell it is and I ain’t going to act no fool or bother you etc. I ain’t laying no trips nowhere ‘cause maybe you did it and it was my fault. I don’t know what I want to. But don’t worry I won’t bother you. If it don’t fit don’t force it, and I can definitely let it go. Take care of yourself and be good. Monyelle said hi! I wish the boat would leave so they wouldn’t add onto this letter every day. I say I won’t and I do anyway! I guess I explained all of this stuff happened to me before. I don’t know if you knew it I was pregnant and Tim went with her. And she knew it and I’ve hated her ever since and still do. If nothing else pride wouldn’t let me go back with you after you approached her. Yes I’m pissed and upset and I want to understand. You had all of these places moving in etc. What were you trying to fuck with my head? I guess you don’t understand the word loyal. If I sound bitter I am, but I’ll just drop it without and quit harassing you. Work for Dad and Socialism.
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[Editor’s note: The following two pages are in reverse order on the original PDF.]
EE-2-h-3d
Cleveland [Newell]. Here is a piece of paper & pen. W/B [Write back]!!
I don’t know if you have received any of my letters, but I know you’ll get this one. My first letter I told you how much I missed you, my second one told you how much I hated you, and Leslie’s told how much you hurt me etc. First thing I want to clear up is I’m not pregnant. Second thing is I want to go ahead and do whatever you want to do with whoever you want to do it with. You don’t have to wait to see what I say or if I’ll object. You can take somebody to the committee with my blessings!! Third thing is you can take the things out of my loft if you want them back or you can wait until I get there. I want you to know at first I was shocked and hurt when I heard that you had approached Shanda [Oliver] [Additional note in margin: “You told me not to believe what I heard until I ask you, and I’m doing just that. Be honest. I heard this from a reliable source!!)] and asked her to go to the committee with you and to fuck you. I didn’t understand why you would just do that to me knowing that I thought we were together and I was being loyal to you. I didn’t think I had done anything to deserve this. But I realize I was weak and I let you take advantage of me. You didn’t have
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EE-2-h-3c
to respect me. So as long as I left you just ran over me right? I’d appreciate some response to that one. I was very honest about myself with you, and I thought you were with me, but now I see that I was wrong on a one-way street. Now you’ve answered your question who was going to break us up. And you were so worried about me liking Tim, I wish I could, then I wouldn’t have to, never mind. Anyway I know you hate me etc. or whatever. But if nothing else I think you owe me some type of explanation. When I get back, I want to talk to you if we have anything to say to each other (which will be as soon as my replacement comes in on the Albatross). Until then I’d appreciate a letter explaining yourself in some way. Here are some letters sent to you. [Marginal note: “I wrote on one! Sorry, huh?”] send me an answer with Evelyn or Lisa when they’re about to get on the boat to give to me. If you don’t send a letter, cool, I won’t bother you, now or when I get home. If you do we can talk only because I want to understand what I did wrong and I’m still going to go my way. I think being alone is fine for me and you took the first step to make it that way. I heard you were on security. Good, work hard for Dad because he’s the one who deserves your best and that’s all.
Sandi
[Additional note at top of page]
I hope that you do, if not now, find somebody who you can be faithful to and who will be faithful to you. I know it’s crazy, you really shit on me. But I did like you. I know I was too weak but maybe somebody else and you can hit it off. Maybe one day it will be Shanda [Oliver]! Good luck.
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EE-2-h-4a – 4d
[illegible four-page note]
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Undated Note to Jim Jones from Fannie Jordan
EE-2-h-5a
[Editor’s note: Errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation corrected.]
Dear “Dad”,
Check brace on Nell Smart arm it may be hiding a device. I would like to explain to you [some] of the things I saw David [Wise] and Nell did. What I saw that is what made me watch everything close. I am sorry Dad but I am watching everything. I don’t trust it when it come to you and your life. I don’t want anything to happen to you. Forgive me please Dad if I am wrong. Thank you Dad
Fannie Jordan
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Undated Note to Jim Jones from Lee Ingram
EE-2-h-6a – 6b
[Editor’s note: Some names in this memo are in code.]
To: Dad
From: Lee [Ingram]
I concur with Teri about Lil. Last night was no different than any other, couldn’t say anything civil to her. After finishing traffic said “take care” she responded, “I won’t fall into a manhole.”
Message that was given was so impractical & illogical to her yet Martha understood it & had no problem with it. As swift as Lil as supposed to be, why admit over the radio that legal action will be taken against us. Strange –
Minister Carmichael was defensive of us at meeting in Kaituma this afternoon. He was asked why our friends in Jonestown hadn’t voted in referendum – He said they are all registered but haven’t yet satisfied the years for citizenship. He went on – it’s not a matter of them not wanting to vote, they do, but have to satisfy time period for citizenship.
He also committed us for rendering service of Cudjoe, hopes we continue service – this all done publicly
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EE-2-h-7a – 7b
Undated Note to Jim Jones from Terry Carter Jones
To Jim,
I found this can & did not want to throw it away because I thought it might inspire some or let some people know a little too Lynetta [Jones] thought and championed your truths. It certainly inspired me this morning. Thank you for being our leader, thank you Lynetta for keeping you from fascists for us. Thank you for all the great heroes such as Lynetta & the Rosenburgs [Ethel and Julius Rosenberg] for their character in the struggle.
My first inclination is to say I can’t relate to Dick’s thoughts on elitism because right now I’m in the right frame of mind (being grateful as I always should be but am not). But I can. I have often rationalized my own pittinglys of slight discomfort, to justify my anarchy, my total insensitivity to other people, my taking special privileges. I justify that I’ve earned these things. I haven’t bothered you too much compared to other people, so I say I deserve it. I have felt self-righteous that I never wanted a fuck from you, but then to see I am a sick clingy child who constantly needs your approval of trust. When Debbie [Blakey] left I intellectually know you shouldn’t or couldn’t trust anyone, but to suppress my own responsibility in the matter I began to rationalize my negativity, saying to myself, “I should be trusted. I should be involved with strategies. I was just as good or better than most of who I termed “elitist” in the radio room, when whatever I might have been seeing was me! Then you jarred me (as much as I hated it but you spared me from the floor) that I was asking for trust when I too, as Dick put it, should have been shot for feeding the negativity of one of the most malicious defectors. That I too have that defector in me. I still want to say to myself I couldn’t have been more responsible than anyone else, but I am, and thanks to you, I can use it to start to re-create & be productive for Communism. It hurts to realize I have for so long wanted your approval rather than just doing things because it’s right, because it’s for struggling for oppressed people.
I couldn’t relate to going back to the States, I couldn’t make it nor do I want to make it, but until just shortly did I feel the real struggle (and it is feeling too little) for others of the world. I had the conscience of being perfectly contented with building socialism for just us & then Guyana could follow & evolution could come from here. But this is what the news has done for me, made me think & deal with suffering of others deal with that I certainly don’t deserve this socialism more than they. Thank you again for not shooting me – I know your love I took for granted. In fascism the cause of a defector plus the defector gets shot.
Terry
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EE-2-h-7c
Meditation Nov. 3, 1972
Perhaps it does support some comfort to the victim of a nagging conscience to seem to have had a reason, however false, to testify in some small way the evil wrought against his fellow men. Thus evasion leads to obsession and the outward manifestation is [illegible word] to downgrade those who have done (him or her) no harm.
It is unwise to sponsor “peace” while promoting discord such as “watch Jim, she is up to no good” and when the listener protests that he has seen no dirty work being done by so & so (Jones) the pacemaker counsels, sagely “wait and see – So & so will undermine you just like she did me.” Time passes, sometimes years of time and the prophecy remains unfulfilled. Who could blame “So & so,” then, if the warned “watching the author of the warning only to find that it was she who was doing the dirty work she had been accusing so & so of doing and that so & so had not undermined her in the first place.
I have never seen love, favor, friendship, condition or things or members of persuaders with which I would not dare to differ in defense of “Right.”
I could not quarrel with the color of person, animal or thing for I have gazed too long upon the sweet enchantment of God’s universal decor and listened too well to the wail of the abandoned and the oppressed whose color, often, did not match mine, but whose pain was no less for all that.
And color: reminds me, tonight, of the bastard word, “nigger,” spun off from the word “niggard,” which rolls so glibly from the terms of the ignorant and the uncaring. ‘Tis strange that all the niggardly I have met have been “white.”
Meditation Nov. 4, 1972
Wonder why some folk think I am “not aware” of their part in the late contact on James and the churchmen or that I would have been too stupid to have documented my findings all along. Lurid story tho about the big “Buck Nigger” moving up to challenge her in the driveway of this so-called well armed hideaway (after midnight) as she innocently rode with the bellwether of the (so-called questionable flock and was no doubt
[End of document]
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Note of Apology to Jim Jones from Janice Johnson, May 1978
EE-2-h-8
5/28/78
Dear Dad
I apologize for taking up your time and the people’s time just to get my shit together. Also I thank you for giving me a chance to change and to grow. I’m going to work on myself and I’m going to study hard in electricity and refrigeration. I’m going to use my head for the cause.
Thank you Dad,
Janice Johnson
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Letter to Jim Jones from unknown writer, May 1978
EE-2-h-9a
May 24, 1978
Dear Dad,
Before I came here, I made two statements that I think I should mention to you. You may have heard about them from others but I feel that I should report myself for saying these things.
1) Once I said, “My mom & my children are already in Jonestown, I don’t care if I ever get there. They mean more to me than anyone else and as long as they’re safe, that’s what matters to me.” I was “upset” at the time but I know the feeling had to be deep-seeted [seated] in me or otherwise I would not have stated such a negative unsocialistic thing. I should never have been only interested in my relatives being here but should be deeply concerned about others who want to come here.
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EE-2-h-9b
2) The second thing that I said shortly before leaving LA was stated when I “thought” I was under a lot of pressure. Vivian Anderson, Mercedes Guildry [Guidry] (who are here now), Oreen Poplin, & the Medlocks were giving me hell in those days. I was in the process of packing all of my things that I had planned to bring over here at that time but had not finished packing. On that particular Saturday morning, Mabel Medlock came to visit me again and I suddenly felt as though I had to get away fast. She made me so angry that I left the room and went into the bathroom and started crying (I did not want Mabel to see or hear me crying, I called Kay Nelson and said that I couldn’t take it
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EE-2-h-9c
any longer and had to get away. She suggested that I call SF and tell Sandy [Bradshaw] how I felt. I did. I told her who was upsetting me and why I felt that I had to get away fast. I really think I was stupid enough to think that if I came here and returned and I could help in LA and on that particular day I told Sandy that I was not ready to come and stay here but wanted to come here and if I could not come right away, I was going to go somewhere. I really was crying for help at the time. I realize tho now, in fact, I realize that before I left but never thought about writing you about it. If I had really wanted to leave PT I don’t think I would have called and let others know
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EE-2-h-9d
that I was planning to leave. I also told Kay later what I had planned to do. I can see now that it was all very selfish and stupid of me and I’m really sorry that I let myself get in that rut. I do remember saying to Sandy that I couldn’t get my things packed and needed to return to take care of that & several other things. I spent a lot of time helping Mercedes, Vivian & Oreen and did not organize nor use my time the right way. So all of a sudden, I found myself running out of time. I really thought, felt, and acted like a fool. I realize that now. But – it was not my intention to leave PT. I really wanted to get away from the sister I mentioned and my relatives (aunt) in Texas who telephoned 2 or 3 times a week.
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EE-2-h-9e
I really wanted to come here but at the same time, I was afraid. Being the kind of mom that I’ve been and still is – I was afraid to be too near my children. I was afraid that if I were not very careful, I would somehow try to interfere with their lives. I had seen some of the mistakes that I had made before and was concerned that I would mess up again. However, my desire to be here was stronger so I wanted to come.
Dad, I feel so guilty about not being able to stay until it was the right & best time for me to come. I didn’t give that any thought before. I let my emotions rule me and that was so wrong. I did miss my mom and the children very much but that
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EE-2-h-9f
was no excuse. Nor was there any excuse for me to let the lies, I was beginning to hear in LA before I left, affect my thinking at all. I should have worked harder than I did – helping our cause. I would not have had so much time to think about myself then. After Tom and I separated, the children & I were constantly together. That was bad for me and bad for them also. I never received affection from my mom and I guess I really never knew her to show affection without interfering. I can see I have a lot to learn. I feel so guilty about my actions. I never thought about what you were going through at all. I did not know about [Tim] Stoen and other problems before I came.
I had told Johnny Jones that I would be in Steering Committee meeting Monday night but didn’t attend because I wanted to see the films and go to the news class that night. I’ll attend from now on.
Thank you, Dad
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EE-2-h-11a
Undated Letter to Jim Jones from Sue Jerram
Dear Dad,
I would like to request again some form of isolation from the general community. I cannot go about my daily business without meeting head on with someone paranoid about food sometime during the day – even when my contact is innocent – tonight Grover [Davis] was dropping his food so I took his orange and held it. Joyce Touchette took it from me asking me for the other things which I took from Grover’s plate (which was nothing). So from now on Grover’s food can go in the mud before I can try to help him (which makes no sense to me). I’m still upset about being found guilty of taking the 12 sandwiches. What upsets me (or at least one of the things) is that if I had taken the 12 sandwiches and confessed I’d not have gotten any sentence. What have I learned? I didn’t want to learn that.
I don’t expect that I’ll be able to stay out of trouble with this going on. It’s like I said in the meeting the other night. Sometimes you want to go away for a while so the hell that you are in (trouble) can blow over so it is better when you come back. I really identified
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EE-2-h-11b
with Ricky when he ran off. I found myself thinking, “if I had known he was going to run…” But before noon I was feeling so guilty for this thinking that I was in tears. Anyway back to the subject. I think a reasonable time is until I weigh 125 to 135 lbs. I will accept working on Public Services, as long as I can do my night work in the Nurse’s office. Or perhaps I could work on the project of the house where people could go for some solitude, not coming into the city at all until a certain time at night, after dinner. It is very difficult for me to cope with the attitude held by many people right now and I truly believe that I will be accused of taking food until I am forced on PS by public pressure.
Thank you, Dad
Sue Jerram
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EE-2-h-12a
Undated Letter to Jim Jones from Sandi Cobb Jones
Dad,
I’m sorry to be bothering you again but I know that you know I have been talking to Cleveland [Newell] since I got home and if you didn’t know I wanted to tell you. When I was talking to him explaining to him what was happening with me, why I had not talked to him on the radio etc. when I told him about what he had done to Shanda [Oliver], he denied it, and said he’d rather get with her and you to clear this up, because he hadn’t said anything like that to her. He said that the only time they had talked she had made some smart ass comment about me as a bed partner or as somebody’s bed partner. Maybe she was lying or misunderstanding something when he talked to her. Or maybe she lied altogether personally. I’d believe the latter knowing how much I dislike her and vice versa. Anyway he said he was going to talk to you about it tonight. I
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EE-2-h-12b
hope that he does. And whatever happens gets cleared up. I like him and I know it’s probably wrong by everybody else’s standard but if he didn’t do it I don’t see what’s wrong with it. I apologize for writing these stupid ass letters to Leslie [Wegner Wilson] and Cleveland. I’m glad that they didn’t get them. I was upset, paranoid etc. when I wrote them. I imagined everything was happening here. As far as everybody thinking I should confide in Ava [Cobb Jones], I think or know I wouldn’t or couldn’t because she has been so hypocritical with me about not liking Tim [Tupper Jones] or whatever so I just don’t do it. She says one thing to me but does another thing in front of people. But I’m glad that she’s not on my side. I did try to make up for being a fool by trying to work, but I know it’s not as much as I should’ve. I didn’t want
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EE-2-h-12c
to be trying to sneak anything. That’s why I wrote to you. I rather have this stuff straightened out because if it’s just her word against his, I believe his. I’ve been through this same situation with her except I was pregnant and with Tim and he swore he hadn’t done anything. Maybe he did after all. But I just can’t believe what that girl says. If it’s true then I’m wrong. I would also rather not work in the radio room splitting up the time with Shanda. I prefer not to be in touch with her in any way. I just rather be a house parent and work in the fields. But if I’m really needed to be in the radio room and Larry [Schacht]’s office I’ll do it because none of it is half as much of what you have to put up with.
Thank you,
Sandi
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Self-analysis by James Alfred Smith, July 1978
EE-2-h-13a – 13b
[Editor’s notes: Insofar as this handwriting can be deciphered, grammar and spelling errors have been corrected.]
Self-analysis by Alfred James [James Alfred Smith]
July 4, 1978
Anyalsis
Dad I didn’t really want to have it but I had traitorous thoughts at times like after you give us some general [several illegible words] just to see what it would be like. I admit that I don’t love you because I don’t know how to love and I [am] resentful to authority figures because they make [illegible word] right when I realize if we didn’t have at that Italian that we wouldn’t have this movement. I admit that I wouldn’t go to jail for you because I don’t like to be penned up and as for dying for you I really don’t know if I would but I doubt it. And I don’t think I could really come to killing myself, but would have to make someone else do it. However I do want to have alpha [White Nights] where we all die. Then I admit that I think a lot about myself and very little of others, that I am lazy, resentful to work, and don’t like to obey orders. I realize that I need help in these areas. Dad I can’t say I’m sorry for when I’m really not. All’s I can say is I’ll work on it to the best of my ability and I’d appreciate any help I can get. I also admit that I’m a very vengent [vengeful?] person who wouldn’t tell most on some because it’s right but just to get back at them and I don’t appreciate the things you’ve done for me enough.
Thank you Dad from Alfred James
Dad I’m also disrespectful to seniors and feel that I don’t owe anything to them because they didn’t do anything for me but they did and I think I know too much and flapped my own way to learning and I don’t want to listen to anyone. I also want a lot of attention that I can’t get so I act up sometimes.
[Marginal notes: “Dad, I think the reason I do these things is because I think I’m above everybody else”
[“I also belittle people a lot and make fun of their physical features that they can’t help. And I disrespect my teachers also. [Several illegible words] someone not as smart as I am.”]
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Undated thank you letter to Jim Jones from Ruby Johnson
EE-2-h-14a – 14b
[Editor’s note: This letter was dictated by Ruby Lee Johnson, a blind senior. Her scrawled signature appears at the end of the letter. The identity of the letter writer is unknown.]
from Ruby L. [Lee] Johnson
Senior Center
Evaluation
Dear Dad,
In my heart, I know I do lots of things & I don’t know all of socialism, but I’m willing to learn & willing to be taught all about socialism. To you, you’re all I’ve got. In my lifetime I wish I had known you a long time ago. I wasted so much time doing the wrong things that if I’d known you a long time ago maybe my life would have been better. I feel useless to you, I’m blind now & I can’t help do anything. I have to have people lead me around. You’re the kind of person that makes me want to go on living & as far as me wanting to go back to the USA, I would never turn against this, I would not have anywhere to go. Where would I go. I have nowhere & nothing to go to. You are pouring your heart out to us & it was once at a time that I was going to first took sick & was going to lose my eyesight & lose my job & I didn’t want to live and something made me want to go on living – it was something in you that you said that made me want to go on. Over here one time you gave me something to fight for. I don’t know how I can ever thank you – can’t even repay you for my life. But I can’t ever stop thanking you. If something ever happens to you & Mother [Marceline Jones], I’d be lost. You’re my dream. You saved my daughter’s life & I can’t ever repay you for Ruby’s life & I would never turn my back on you. When you told me to leave the US, they asked me who was the President & I couldn’t even think of his name – I forgot his name. I’m trying so hard to learn things now. We don’t have any socialism teacher now and I’d like to learn more.
What I think of Jim Jones couldn’t be expressed in words. There’s no one else. After you there is no one – [illegible word] couldn’t go no further. I couldn’t even to Mother, because she is so sweet, so kind and so precious – couldn’t find too dearer & dedicated people because you couldn’t leave her out – She’s right in there with you & she’s carrying the ball with you – I’d had to say something about her too. I’m very proud to have so sweet & loving Mother like her.
I’m really sorry about a lot of unnecessary junk I brought. In the states, because if I had the money, look what we’d have had here.
About a 8 hour day, we are not ready for one yet. You have to have something I had to do this. Also if we are not producing at 10 1/2 hours, how can we ever produce at 8 hours? In 8 hours not as much would get done! We don’t even have enough land cleared for all these people coming.
Thank you Dad, for your protection and your care and for your love.
Ruby Lee Johnson
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Undated Letter to Jim Jones from Sandi Cobb Jones
EE-2-h-15a – 15e
[Editor’s note: Spelling and grammatical errors corrected throughout.]
Father,
I thought I’d write a letter to explain my actions so you can understand what I’m doing. Well I started liking Cleveland [Newell] not to hurt Tim [Tupper Jones] but at the time Tim didn’t really care. We just knew them everything would be better as long as we were apart. We didn’t fuss, I could talk to him and vice versa (or at least I thought so). I know everybody kept saying he was no good etc. But I didn’t really listen because I’ve heard so much about myself for just about the same people or their attitudes. Unless I liked Tim I’d just be this and that so it drew me closer out of my own hostility to Cleveland. Anyway, I was a fool I know and it’s not so much that I didn’t think it would happen. In fact I wouldn’t have been taken by it if it had been somebody else but it was Shanda [Oliver]. And the same thing happened I was pregnant and Tim wanted Shanda so I just have an abortion by myself and she knew too. That’s one reason I was upset or surprised… That girl is just my carma [karma] I know that.
Anyway I don’t mind etc. that’s life so I don’t let it affect me. I’m sorry I let myself get into this predicament. I know I’m a disappointment to you and you’re upset. I expect that. I want to go to the doctor etc. by myself because if I am pregnant I got this way by myself. And I expect everybody to be upset with me and I don’t need any comforting etc. I’m fine. As far as me going with Tim I know everybody says I’m making a mistake. I probably am but I don’t really believe it in my mind. I don’t blame anything on Tim, it’s me. But we agreed so much. I know everybody does and the last few weeks we were almost physically fighting. I know Tim didn’t mean any harm etc. but he has always reminded me that I wouldn’t [have] done this or got that, if I hadn’t been married to him, which is no doubt true but my only identification of myself was through him. Of course he told me I was smart etc. I don’t hate him, maybe it’s just a block or something, I only want to be friends with him because that’s only what I feel and anything else would be a lie. I know I’m not worth anything without him or at least not half as much. I’m not trying to hurt him or get back at him because I don’t have anything to get back at him for. And since Cleveland made his choice, fine, he can go, it’s no big thing. But I don’t want any relationship with nobody. I may be wrong but I made up my mind. Tim can have a relationship with somebody else maybe sooner or later. I want him to be happy and his relationship to be happy. I’m sure he will be. I just want to have my life without males. As far as this lab goes I like to come home and get Monyelle [Jones] settled and be able to study there for a while and then come back to do it. I’d like to get familiar with the subjects before trying to learn something that will take longer. I thought I was to learn blood typing, cross matching etc. for transfusion, and he sent me a list of everything else except that. I don’t want to appear all ignorant when I’m trying to learn something I can’t pronounce. I’d also like to get Monyelle’s and Marchelle’s [Jones] birth certificates and passports. Then I’ll come back to GT [Georgetown]. I think it will take 2-3 months here and I’d rather have Monyelle in JT. I’m sorry to be taking all of your time
[Document ends]
—–
Notes about Attitudes of Jonestown Residents, July 1978
EE-2-h-16a
26-7-78 – People who thought 10 more might do what Ricky did
Ollie Smith –
Eugene Smith –
Sue Jerram – People want to get away – on Brigade you don’t have to talk – except now more freedom to talk – accumulate time off & be able to take a day or two off to get into whatever they want to do.
Becky Flowers – people can’t take pressure of confrontation
Angela Cassanova [Casanova] – People take advantage of your love
Edith Roller – Teenagers don’t feel they have a place in society – run down by adults – not enough challenge for young people. Privilege without challenge has been given
Bessie Wesley – People do not participate enough – take you too much for granted – named especially Lavana James, Willie Reeves [Reed], Flora Saunders [Sanders], Vallerstein [Vellersteane] Jones, Eliza Jones. They don’t listen when you are giving the news or if tape is on. Also Lula Ruben, Lucy Miller, Cory Duncan, Mary Ella Cook.
Pauline Groot said she felt she wanted to run (into the bush to be alone) because she felt she was not liked– or wanted around. Dividing people into 2 categories: 1) those who picked on her & teased, 2) those who saw this & did nothing about it. She also like no telling rule on PS [Public Services] feels it is a protection from the cruelty of people. Praised a supervisor for stopping a child from teasing her & said that was the “kindest act” she’d ever experienced. Asked if she liked children – reply she likes ones who are quiet, reserved & inhibited. Threatened by those uninhibited & outspoken.
Jackie Rochelle – feels our pride will overtake us when we can’t take pressure
Jimmy Cordell – feels people are spoiled – complain about kind of work they do, feel they’re hostile about news & what your expectations of us are. People think it’s too hard to be a communist.
Inez Connedy [Conedy] – people won’t make changes & want to do their own thing – get out of fire
Edda [Etta] Thompson – says young people waiting their chance to see if someone makes it home, then they will try to make it.
—–
EE-2-h-16b
Earnest Jones – lack of concern – show destruction of property
Robin Tschetter – people “think” about leaving because they think they had it better off in the States.
Stephanie Jones – don’t like structure & criticism, not enough sensitivity to get ego out of the way & realize what it will do to others
Marguerite Romano – not content with their surroundings. Should respect others’ feelings. She felt she didn’t get enough personal attention, that was her motive for wanting to leave at one point. Ricky’s full of fear of rejection.
Sharon Kislingbury – people who try to justify their discontent or their own paranoia don’t assume enough guilt & want to escape guilt
[Willa] Joanne Johnson goal – worried about own self image after confrontation – hostility
Geneva Beal – people dissatisfied & unhappy. Lack of concern for others.
Gloria Carter – as long as nuclear war hasn’t hit, people are always going to want to go back. They think there’s still something there for them. She’s willing to work to make Jonestown go.
Barbara Hoyer – she didn’t think there’d be 10+ who would be foolish enough or nerve enough to go into the jungle, but maybe back to the States.
Pam Bradshaw – potential traitor in all of us – we all have a price of sell out
Mike Carter – people don’t face reality of world situation, self-centered, might get depressed & do something stupid no matter how it affects others.
Caroline Looman – agreed with most reasons already given – People don’t understand the dialectic or the principle of positive & negative
Mike Simon – people like their own way & will rebel against principle – side comments during people’s confrontation causes paranoia that they can’t deal with
Penny Silver [Kerns] – doesn’t think the youth are thinking about leaving but the older ones think our youth are strong due to structure. She feels she is
—–
EE-2-h-16c
basically a coward. Their sick paranoia & rejection causes them to run. Feel confrontation is a punishment, not a help.
Mercedes Guidry – had same experience with a family member. Doesn’t think Ricky’s in the woods, but around close
Juanita Green – people don’t want to follow leadership & want to get off to themselves
Larry Schacht – 10 capable of defecting but not exactly what Ricky did
Dick Tropp – people aren’t capable of coming out of animalistic state; unable to take confrontation. Quality of community; need for privacy – own space – tendency in humans to want to see what’s on the outside in spite of warnings. Want to test limitation they have to live within. Might see more in future
Kathy Jackson – need to watch the “way” people want to leave. Such as diversionary act of gunshot.
Ameal Staten – Ricky didn’t speak to her when she spoke to him – young people drag & don’t work.
Vera Tally [Talley] – loves it here, feels youth needs to be taught how to work
Gladys Roberts – loves it here doesn’t want to leave
Tom Kice Sr. – Thinks prospects of new city is good
—–
EE-2-h-16d
Carolyn [Layton] – These are the people who spoke tonight and their statements. Dad wanted me to take down each of their statements.
Judy [Ijames]
—–
Undated Note of Apology from Ava Jones
EE-2-h-17a – 17b
from Ava [Jones]
Dad
I made a statement today about me wearing my shoes tracking magnesium in my house. Also I said it made the Pavilion look messy when it rained.
I didn’t hear the decision or discussion about covering the road during Peoples Rally.
I agree it is much safer and considerate for everyone.
If I would have known about the discussion I would’ve kept my mouth shut. I apologize for saying anything, too late.
I agree with the decision and in fact, I have said that you don’t slide with it on the road, and it was much safer carrying babies
—–
Note from Tim Borl “Night” Jones, August 1978
EE-2-h-18a
[Editor’s note: Spelling and grammar errors corrected throughout.]
from Tim Jones
23/8
I feel that Val, don’t want to see her mom [Nelma Jones], she has told me a lot of times. She feels ashamed of her, and thinks her mom will make trouble for JV [John Victor Stoen]
I don’t know Val’s mom really. I met her a couple of times (friendly). I don’t wish her here because I feel that maybe in some way Val has feeling for her. Val said one reason she hated her mom was that she didn’t stay in the hospital the time of her operation
—–
EE-2-h-18b
by her mom having all the money she has I would think that she may have sold out and come to spy on JT. By no means I have no interest in seeing Val’s mom. And I don’t think Val wants to see her also. Bell said that her mom, don’t have the money. And Val said that she won’t do what she been told, she will have to be talked to about this.
Right now I am going to talk to her & do what you say, for that reason only.
Tim Jones (Night)
—–
Note from Valerie Yvette Jones, August 1978
EE-2-h-19a – 19b
[Editor’s note: Spelling and grammar errors corrected throughout.]
from Val Jones
23/8
I do not want my mom [Nelma Jones] coming. In my whole 20 yrs of life I only spent about 3 yrsa with her. I think I am better off without her. I don’t know where she has gotten all this money to travel around with. I wouldn’t put it past her to be paid off by the CIA. To me she’s the most vulnerablest in my family. I will not leave with her. I [am] living the way that I want to live and she has no business interfering so soon. I wouldn’t find if she came maybe a year or 2 years from now. But coming so soon and I’ve only been here almost 5 mos disturbs me. She’s never been this concerned about me before and as far as I’m concerned she can skip by Guyana and go on her way because I’ve gone mine.
Valerie Yvette Jones
—–
Letter to Jim Jones from Sharon Amos
EE-2-h-20
[Editor’s note: Spelling and grammatical errors corrected throughout.]
Dear Jim
I wanted to tell you (not that you need such statements, but I felt this way so am putting it in writing) how painful it is to hear about the cancer cells in your lungs. I have learned to carry on without your direct presence but I can always take for granted that you are there with all your burning commitment to us and to communism in the world.
I bow my commitment to what you have stood for so long despite the fact that my commitment is such an emerging imperfect one compared to your complete egoless commitment.
I thank you for your never failing love and for letting me learn to leave immature dependencies aside (not that I claim any tremendous maturity) but I have learned that attachments in this world lead nowhere either for the individual or society.
I especially appreciate the trust you have put in me over the years so that I have grown. I know this sounds like an epitaph and I don’t mean it to be but the PM [Prime Minister Forbes Burnham] says that we don’t often tell our appreciation to people until it’s too late, and on that I agree with him.
Thanks again, and I deeply hope that your condition to be treated. I know that is selfish as you have served beyond any expectations of a human being or even any notion of a savior, but I am selfish in wanting you around.
/s/ Sharon
Sharon
—–
Reflection by Clara Johnson on Tropp Letter, July 1978
EE-2-h-21a – 21b
7-11-78
Dad,
I am guilty of having an elitist attitude that I’m very ashamed of. I’m happy that Dick Thropp [Tropp] wrote that letter to you because it has helped me to understand my attitude. I have been very worried about some of the thoughts that have run through my mind even though they were foolish. I suppose this is something that happens and now instead of pushing those thoughts back, I can hang them out and take a good look at them and deal with them. To admit my elitist attitude will not be enough, I must correct it starting now. I am making my commitments now – I will stand for socialism even if my children should fail to stand. This is the only real thing that has ever made sense to me. In the past I have not understood the reason we did some of the things we did, but I said to myself, “I’ll follow even though I do not fully understand because I’ve never known Dad to be wrong and my conscience would haunt me forever if I refuse to do my part and later realize how wrong I was. I feel better now that I decided that. I am certain that I do not wish to return to the USA. I want no part in that Capitalist-Imperialist Country, that has killed Blacks & other poor people all over the world. I feel extremely guilty about the money I wasted that would support racism, CIA murders, wars & etc. I am going to work harder than ever before to prove my sorrow because it is right to work, it is right to care, it is right to help bring about Socialism in the world beginning here in Jonestown.
Thank you, Dad,
Clara Johnson
—–
Undated Notes of Apology from Shanda James Oliver
EE-2-h-22
Jim,
I really sorry about falling asleep in the radio room last night. I caught most of the conversation, but please don’t think I’m not concerned. Like I said before, “use me.” I cannot sit down for 1/2 hour before I fall asleep. I fell asleep in the movie & with the guest yesterday. I don’t know exactly what I’m taking but it really affects me. I feel awful, I am concerned about our future. I’m sorry.
Shanda James
—–
EE-2-h-23
Jim,
Sorry about [Mike] Prokes & Stephanie [Jones]. Hope I didn’t cause more problems for you. I really think Prokes went about it wrong but it’s too late now
I’m willing to say or do anything to change it or fix it. I didn’t know Stephanie was coming on to you. I knew the other person. So I’m to blame.
Shanda [James]
—–
Memo to Jim Jones from Frances Johnson, September 1978
EE-2-h-24a – 24b
Sept 5, Tues.
Pat Keeler is another person I’m suspicious of. Shortly before I left SF Pat made the following statement in council and several times after being counseled:
“I hate all of you. I don’t want to be here. I’m just waiting for my money then I’ll leave this place.”
She had been keeping company with Don David, who probably have a division between Pat and Margie, his black wife, whom he seemed to dislike. When you sent a message to us in SF, “if you have doubt and no faith, do not take the cloth,” Pat was one of three people that I observed who did not take that cloth.
Pat comes and goes at all times during the night. She says she’s not afraid because she knows a lot of people in the area. She’s been observed talking to outside brothers while on security – especially the guys who work on renovating the apt. building across from our back lot. She became upset when advised by AJ [Archie Ijames] that this was unwise – as we’re never sure of what we might say. She said she would be unable to do security if she were to stop talking to them.
Frances Johnson
—–
Undated Memo to Maria Katsaris from Irra Johnson
EE-2-h-25a – 25b
To: Maria [Katsaris]
From: Irra [Johnson]
Re: Kathy Barrett
Merely as a point of information I thought you might like to know of the conversation that I had with Kathy Barrett several days ago. After the first night she had worked as a server with the guests she told me the next day that Jack Beam had asked her to remain until they were done to serve Dad because no one at the table should be doing it he’d said. At about 12:00 Kathy says she gave everything to Jack & said she was leaving. She had to get up at 5:00 for work and couldn’t get a replacement on her job if she stayed so she just left. Loretta Coomer then told her that she would work in her place anytime she had to serve Dad and it wouldn’t be any problem.
This incident may seem like nothing at all but her attitude when she relayed to me just really bothered me. It had been on my mind since she said it and I thought I should write it up. At the time I said nothing to her but I thought to myself that most people would consider it an honor & privilege to serve water to him and I felt she had a lot of nerve just to leave especially since she had been asked to stay. Also with Dad being so ill now you’d think she’d want to do whatever little thing she could. [two lines scribbled out]
Thanks, Irra
—–
Memo to Jim Jones from Clara Johnson, October 1978
EE-2-h-26a – 26c
From: Clara Johnson
10-4-78
Dad,
I wrote you a letter on Monday night after my daughter, Janice Johnson, was given a warning by the jury because she had not observed Mark Sly’s behavior at a meeting. I wrote & said I thought she should not receive a warning that time but feel that she should have been told that from that time on, anyone not observing those around them will receive a warning. This was given in 1st or 2nd service back [illegible word] her illness…
I am very concerned about Janice. She is on iron 3 x’s a day, was still with strep throat & is still on medication for it. Janice has a tendency to being frequently depressed. I do not want Jan to grow up feeling about herself as I grew up. She has a very poor self-image in the first place and I can see her falling apart again. Janice was tested when she was quite young & found to be gifted in some areas. Her inner conflict seem to be holding her back now. She expressed to me the difficulties she had before coming here being called black darker than her brothers & sisters & etc. She cried while telling me all this. Now it seems that she is constantly on the floor while Tommy & her sister [could be Tommie and Jackie Rochelle] are being praised and I doubt if this helps her. I am concerned about her emotional health also. She has begged to be involved in dancing & singing but has not been included. I feel that my child struggling & begging for a chance and it hurts me to see her growing up feeling that she has nothing good to offer – that she is no good. Thank you, Dad
Clara Johnson
—–
EE-2-h-26c – 26d
Janice has had a lot of things to hurt her and she has managed to hide her pain and I don’t think that’s good because it comes out in other ways. Our only hope is here in Jonestown and I don’t want her to feel as though even here, she can’t make it. I would appreciate if she could receive counseling or something. I’m deeply concerned about Jan. She holds too much in and tries too hard to appear strong. Thank you, Dad
Clara Johnson
—–
Undated Note of Apology to Jim Jones from Alfred James Smith
EE-2-h-27a – 27b
[Editor’s note: Spelling and grammar errors corrected throughout.]
Dad, I wasn’t it in a way I was [illegible word] Ronnie but it seems like Shanda [Oliver] wanted to go with, because she kept asking me what I thought about Val & I see her & talk to her a lot after she said she did not want a relationship. I’m sorry I wish I hadn’t said anything. I made myself sick to get into SCU [Special Care Unit] so I could see her & I wasted a lot of oxygen that could have been used on someone who really needed it.
Alfred James
At the time I was highly upset & I said to myself I couldn’t handle all that’s happening to me. I was going to commit suicide but it didn’t work out. I got in SCU. What I mean is I wanted company of adults & well Rhonda [Fortson] this tossing most of the time so she can’t spend time with me & Beverly got sick & was sent to Georgetown. Gene [likely Chaikin] click stateside, Guy wasn’t much fun, Evon [Eyvonne] James work from 3 to 11 pm so I can’t talk to her & then Shanda got sick & I said the fuck with everything so I went home & held my breath, then when I didn’t pass out I quit & went on about my business, fell asleep in the pavilion & that’s when it took full effect.
—–
Note of Concern from Lee Ingram, September 1978
EE-2-h-28a – 28b
29-9-78
Re: Pak – apathy
From: Lee [Ingram]
A child had died a week ago or so because there was no vehicle available take child to Pakera Hosp. in the Ridge [Matthews Ridge]
Folks were content to just sit & let shit remain that way – no vehicle for emergencies –
I spoke out asking what could be done to get a vehicle – who do we see, what’s the procedure – after a few minutes they were convinced they should pursue this & have a delegation check with administration in the Ridge–
Russell [Moton] said some woman sitting next to Nurse White asked if I was trying to start trouble –
That’s it – folks are just sitting around in Kaituma with no fuel to power generator, and no food in ration store – not knowing how soon the govt boat will come in with supplies.
—–
EE-2-h-29a
Undated Letter to Jim Jones from Ava Jones
To Dad
Please forgive me of my statement concerning us going to Russia was interpreted as my being an elitist. I said that “no matter where people go they will always act the same.” I never said or thought that we didn’t have good people here. I know for a fact that we do. I know a little of their sacrifices and sufferings. I know most have suffered more than I have ever dreamed of. I think the adults have grown as much as they want to. I definitely think the children should be given the chance to grow up in Russia or some communist society.
I think loyalty among the adults and teens it is as long as a fuck. I can’t think taking the shit we have brought over from the States to Russia or anywhere else.
I don’t feel that I’m above anyone here or else in the world. I guess I feel shitty about my own selfishness and lack of awareness and commitment. The best way to defend that is to strike out at others. Which is wrong. I can see how this can be interpreted as being an elitist. I will change this today. I do enjoy the seniors and children, and don’t mind dying in order to make their freedom possible.
I hate John [Moss Brown] and what he represents and I just didn’t want my children to remain in the middle of his insanity and mine. I have talked to Doug Sanders but not on a relationship basis. I’m not a fool and would not jump into a relationship just to get back at John or anyone else. I know all relationships are the same and Doug is married and I would never fuck over another sister unless it was for socialism. I’ll discontinue talking to him and the other males I talk to
—–
EE-2-h-29 b
I know people will gossip no matter what happens. If I wanted a relationship I’ve got enough sense to go through the proper channels, and with a single man. I enjoy Stephanie and Marchelle and the other children and that’s enough. It really does bother me that every time I talked to a male, they’re either my boyfriend or I’m fucking them. I heard gossip that I didn’t even get upset about, that I had come to Guyana because I was pregnant by Sebastian [McMurry] and came over here to have a secret abortion. I fucked Joe [Wilson] away from Leslie [Wagner Wilson] and more bullshit. It’s sad to me that I’m doing all of this and getting away with it. I really don’t care what anybody says about me because I know myself and I know what I will and won’t do about life in general.
I’m sorry to take up your time with bullshit.
Thank you Dad
from Ava
—–
Reflection of Dick Tropp Letter from Laura Johnston, July 1978
EE-2-h-30a
6 July 78
To: Dad
From: Laura Johnston
Re: My response to Dick Tropp’s letter
Coming from white, elitist background I feel is enough to make me constantly schizophrenic – one side close to treason – selling out, living in an illusion that I don’t have to relate as oppressed. The other side of me is committed to communist ideals (that is Jim Jones’ ideals – the purest form of communism). I have cycles of more one then the other, etc. – in spite of my realistically seeing that I couldn’t make it under capitalism ever again – some of the illusions persist – kind of like a “sane” person considers at times “insane” actions. I know that if I ever did leave within the first 24 hours, the pointlessness of it all would make me go back to the same escapes I used before – sex, drugs, whatever. I just cannot imagine ever working with assholes like Debbie [Blakey], TOS [Tim Stoen] – or taking racist positions. For me, the hard part of being a Jim Jones communist (or at least moving in that direction from a far off point) is that both mind and body have to move – I can physically live socialistically or follow rules (except for my fucking in Georgetown), share, not complain, stand, sit, clap, work, be on time, etc. – those things are generally not my problem. My problem is having to mentally be accountable, to make numerous mistakes and having to be accountable for them coming to be accountable for not working as many hours, with as much effort as I know I should – I guess “conscience” bothers me – it bothers me that it doesn’t motivate me like it should. I don’t like myself and like less and less as I see my shallowness about treason – I don’t feel I’ll ever commit the treason of leaving – I know my efforts are so lax as to be treacherous though. It is clear to me that life outside is a total void.
With his last thought of having intellectuals shot as they no longer have usefulness – I wrote up before – that is why I’d like to carry a bomb in to where TOS or others are and blow us all up. I do know I could do that – I really feel certain that I wouldn’t fail in that. In day-to-day things – I make so many mistakes, I’m not what I should be – and I feel I’d be more useful with the bomb idea. I think I could get myself killed if captured by enemies, I can live through jail – the more dire kinds of life or death, I have confidence in myself – specific situations with specific responses from me are things I can handle best. I agree Debbie should have been shot before this point – before she left Guyana. If I ever planned to leave – I would be saying I’d rather die than keep living today under Jonestown law – and
—–
EE-2-h-30b
I would rather be shot than ever doing the traitorous things Debbie and others have done – I know I have problems but I am certain that these things are fully integrated into myself – not adaptions but really inseparable
- I never want riches, to be wealthy to have commodities
- I never want white associations (if I were outside)
- I’d never see capitalism as anything but an oppressive giant
- I don’t trust anyone outside of myself – I only trust Jim Jones and those near him who have been taught so much – Carolyn [Layton], Terri B [Buford], Maria [Katsaris], Jean B [Brown], June [Crym], others too –
- I know people are starving to death daily and in the US as well as other places
These are just some observations I’ve made – kind of like VISITATIONS.
Pat Grunnet – She mentioned that ever since she left Tanzania and Peace Corps, she’s known she’ll go back there sometime – still believes it
Annie Moore – she jokes a lot, always did talk mostly about her job & told funny story from there. I think she’s committed to Carolyn, Kimo [Jim Jon Prokes], more than Dad – her conversation is rarely about here and now – my own opinion is that she’s best off not in Georgetown –
Edith Roller – she’s not flexible as a roommate – she gets uptight over disruption of her personal routine
Rita [Tucker] Lenin – her daughters Ruth & Mary work nights, spend a lot of time at Rita’s cottage, as does Janet. I think she hasn’t freed them enough to be independent. They sleep at her cottage often instead of their own separate cottages – I don’t know if it’s for her benefit or theirs.
Peter Wotherspoon and Mike Lund [Rozynko] – Mike was counseled for telling Shirley Baisey that he’d heard gossip about himself & Peter staying around so much together – he was very defensive about his position as a heterosexual, and his function as Peter’s supervisor – it was too defensive, I thought – and I think he is probably screwing Peter – may have been as he’d had to keep Peter off children – whatever, if so, he’s showing his reservations or rebellion.
Christine Lucientes – has been having news discussions with Odell Rhodes, Sebastian McMurry – other male & female. There is some sort of friendship or something there – to me, Odell is divisive, anarchistic and plays a game of looking important and more dedicated – does not support authority but strongly and vocally confronts anyone not consistently supporting his.
—–
Note of Confession to Jim Jones from Ava Jones
EE-2-h-31a
10/6 [78]
Dad
From: Ava [Jones]
First of all, I would like to criticize myself.
1) I’m a big mouth and will confront anyone very hostilely if I think that I’m right. It’s also hard to change my mind, if I think I’m right.
2) I have wasted money, time and unnecessary effort in the States, that could have been used for our family.
3) I back off of leadership, mainly because I hate people. I think they are phoney and crazy. Also I feel as a Black woman, there is very little respect from the majority of people in J-town. I think the majority of people listen to White women and men before they will a black woman. I think they listen to men over women period, regardless of how much assholes they are. All of this could be overreactions and paranoia
4) I hold hostilities and grudges.
5) I’m too critical of others and don’t speak up enough. My reason is that I think people will change. I feel there’s hope for the children.
I will work on all of my faults.
I would like for another couple to adopt Marchelle [Jones] and for John [Moss Brown] and myself to sign some phony papers without his knowledge. I will still raise her and be responsible for her. I will then like my divorce. I think John is power-hungry and crazy. I think he’s playing a phony Daddy role because his shit is inconsistent and if his love (life) commands something, that’s first, responsibility second, then Marchelle, lasting Stephanie, if he happens to see her.
I think there will be more problems and pain for my children, if he has anything legally to do with them. I think all of the children are the most important thing in life and I will get myself together in all areas to help make their lives better. I respect and appreciate you for showing us communism.
Thank you, Dad
—–
EE-2-h-31b
I think a handful of adults and teens should take the children to Russia or some communist place.
I will be nice to everyone even though I think [illegible word] never change in their lifetime.
—–
Undated Letter to Jim Jones from Ricky Johnson
EE-2-h-32a
To Dad
Ever since the incident with Christine and Thurman [Guy], I have not really been myself it has put a deeper effect on my feelings. I am fighting it each day but sometimes it gets real hard, because I keep getting flashbacks in my head of what I seen and what she told me about what she and Thurman did when they [were] supposed to be watching the animals all night and how her best friend knew what was going on and kept on letting it go by. Sure I admit that I have hurt people’s feelings. But there is also a time when hurting people’s feelings come to a stop. I guess in one way I had it coming to me. Things just don’t happen they happen just.
When I was growing up in New York I used to always wonder why did the man always beat up on the lady, I used to see it almost every day. At least I can say I have never beat up on a girl, I tried to beat them up with words. I think about certain films I saw, like The Learning Tree, how a young black man’s girlfriend got fucked by a white guy that I think about Sonny Carson when he went away to prison and came back and his girlfriend was fuck by drugs and dope, but the most important thing that comes to my mind is dad when you was sitting in a classroom and how someone drop your girlfriend’s panties on your desk
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EE-2-h-32b
just because you didn’t want to have sex with the girl because you wanted to show respect for her.
Dad don’t worry, I am not going to do anything stupid because eventually my feelings will change. I sure remember that in a relationship there is an awful big chance of getting hurt and when you do [scratched out word] hits, it hits like a ton of bricks.
I know it’s not the end of the world for me – it’s the beginning, believe me, when this does straightaway I will damn sure will be stronger. Dad, people should understand that life is nothing if it don’t have a cause to die for. The way I feel now seem like it will never be the same again for as long as I live, I will never forget this incident because it was a part of me growing up.
Without you, dad, this is a cold cruel world.
Your Son, Ricky Johnson
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Undated Letter to Jim Jones from William Dillon Dean (Billy) Jones
EE-2-h-33a
[Editor’s note: Insofar as is possible, spelling and grammatical errors have been corrected throughout.]
I feel guilt about a whole lot of things. For a starter when we had to see the movie about high hitler, even knowing I seen it once before I should have paid more attention to the movie.
And when I heard about Jim Author [likely Arthur] I started to feel bad because I should be the one showing the example and I fell. I’m shitting on the name Jones. I should just change my name because I’m not living up to it or to your teaching. And I know it will make you feel better, if you know I am staying out of trouble. And one thing I feel bad about this when I got on PSU [Public Services Unit] and I know I get myself into trouble for stupid shit when I can use my head and stay out of trouble and too when I walked by Steven [likely Stephan Jones] and as much time he has spent with [me] I feel I’m shitting him too and all the other boys, Tim, Jim Jr., etc. and I feel guilt too every damn time I get myself on PSU and people are mad at me, what I mean by people
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EE-2-h-33b
His people my age I talk and bullshit with a lot and to all my bullshitting I do when I shouldn’t be doing it, [I] will stop. I feel guilty enough about writing this because all the other 2000 or more papers you make yourself read. I’m going to change because for one it is right and when I got my days over I’m going to get out of there and do right.
This is all the guilt I have and will change.
Billy Jones
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Undated Memo to Jim Jones from Ava Jones
EE-2-h-34a – 34b
Dad
Please feel free to call me for any job assignments day or night. I know the workload is extra heavy, especially with the key people away from the family.
I willing to learn new assignments and help in any way possible.
I would also like to read all the reports coming in from Gtownand stateside, so I can be aware of what’s happening and contribute something.
I will get my ass more on the ball. I do wish you could go somewhere and get your help taking care of.
I will be a better example.
Your daughter, Ava [Jones]
Also I don’t mind helping Maria [Katsaris] go over notes daily and follow through on telling the people your responses.
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Memo to Jim Jones from Sharon Jones, October 1978
EE-2-h-35
12-Oct-78
Dad,
Ava [Jones] gave me the message from you about becoming a doctor. Thank you so much for your thoughtfulness. However, the research paper I did was info from three different books and I just compile the info from the 3 into 1 paper. It was certainly no outstanding ability on my part. There are other people who want to become doctors and it would indeed be an honor (and responsibility), I’m 30 years old and have lived most of my life. Perhaps a younger person should be considered.
Faults
1) I am not above average intelligence
2) I generally try to get out of responsibility
3) There have been times I could have volunteered for things but have not because of selfishness.
4) I could use my time more wisely.
5) I have always felt competitive with Joyce P. [Parks]
6) I am not as compassionate or as empathetic as I should be.
I do appreciate your consideration.
Sharon Jones
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Undated Note of Apology to Jim Jones from Carol Ann Jones
EE-2-h-36
[Editor’s note: Spelling and grammatical errors corrected throughout]
Dear Dad. I know I done foolish things back in the States by buying Home, Cars and Furniture, all that meat and perks and a lot of clothes I could have done without if I had your teaching like I know now from your teaching. I hate when you talk about the taxes and money wasted on things we could have helped the starving children in the world and in Africa. That’s why I’m trying to work so hard to make up for the things I had and done. That [I] know wasn’t right. Dad I am ashamed, Dad
Thank you Dad
Carol Ann Jones
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Undated Self-Analysis by Gladys Jackson
EE-2-h-37
[Editor’s note: Spelling and grammatical errors corrected throughout]
7-12-78
To Dad
To analyze myself I have moody days and I don’t like myself for that. I want to help. Sometime I feel in my mind I can’t do it well enough. Then I let someone else do the job. That is one of my hang-ups.
I get angry with myself when you tell the news I can’t remember what you say long enough to write [it] down. That upset me very much. When I get so I can’t do nothing don’t want to stay around.
I am so glad you let me be one of your children and I am glad to have a mother like our mother [Marceline Jones]. Going to class I am glad maybe I can learn how to read and spell. Dad what I miss in the states I don’t really miss nothing. Sometime I think about my so-called sister & brother and why not a one could see your good work.
Gladys Jackson