[Editor’s notes: The letters on this page derive from several sources, principally FBI Section 126 • EE-1 • Letters to Dad (K-M); FBI Section 130 • EE-2 • Letters to Jim Jones; and FBI Sections 121-123 • BB-31 – BB-32 • Tim Stoen, D Touchette.
[Insofar as possible, these letters have been arranged in alphabetical order of the writer’s last name. Unless otherwise noted, the letters retain their original spelling and grammar.
[Peoples Temple member often used old reports and documents as scratch paper, using the reverse side of these pages for their letters. We have labeled and transcribed those scratch pages which include information about Jonestown.]
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EE-1-L-62
Affidavit from Phillip Lacy, December 15, 1975
My name is Phillip Lacy. For the past several months I have lack in my possession an am, fm tuner (Realistic Brand). The tuner was bought for church use, with church funds, and I had the job of making sure it was available for church use, and in good repair. I last saw it on November 28, 1975. When I returned from thanksgiving hollidays on or about december first I found it missing. A thorough search was made, but it still wasn’t found. about a week later at school I saw a guy named steve matte carrying what appeared to be the tuner. I later found out that a few days before he had gone to the church to pick up some personal stuff and was seen leaving with the tuner. I do not know where he lives.
I declare under penalty of perjury that the above is true and correct to the best of my knowledge.
Phillip Lacy
12/15/1975
[Editor’s note: Official Seal, Grace L Stoen, Notary Public California, Principal Office in Mendocino County. My commission expires on April 13, 1977.]
Grace L. Stoen
Notary Public
Dec 15, 1975
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EE-1-L-10
Undated letter to Jim Jones from Lossie Mae Lang.
I Lossie Lang feel that socialism is the only way and the greatest life to live in the world. I don’t want no other life. It teaches me to be my brother’s keeper and share with my fellowman it teaches the truth and love that what the [illegible words] off make me want to do [illegible word] for others give me a new look on life I never Been so happy in all of my life
thank you father
I what ever for you are for me
Father I do love this. It is so Beautifull has everything a body could want it could be made into a Parisdite right here we last this first Parasdite and could be Rebuilt it right here if we are aloud the chance But we Dont want nothing at [illegible word] to you for with you we all are Dead
We no that I am lay down my life [illegible words] anytime for a [illegible words] ever [illegible words] go only where [illegible words] any where you are and all in peace I hate to see you hurt you are so wonderfull and my life what you plan is fine for me all ways.
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EE-1-L-34
Undated note from Lossie Lang
[Editor’s note: Lack of punctuation marks, misspelled words, and other errors have been retained.]
Why we left the united states
Because we wanted to get out off a caplisted state where we might be Put in a concentration camp Be Kill at any time and we wanted to be a free Peoples Knowing that they have change so many laws.
You spoke about a Bome that the united state had made which would kill a hole city of Peoples and not harm a Paper or Pincle it only kill Peoples. you also told us about a law [illegible word] they pass saying that you could be ask a question by a Police man if you Didint give him the answer he wanted he Put you in jail keep you as long as he wanted to nothing you could do about it. and there Been a law Pass where no Blacks or indians are a loud to be Doctors or lawyers. and there be earth quicks foot shortes on here Peoples starve to Death. They poison the water to Kill Blacks and not harm the White you also told us about a misel carring a Boms flying tree level could hit a [illegible word] Kill all the Peoples in united state said the Police would go throw your house without a Permit nothing be Dont about that
Lossie Lang
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BB-31-a-219
Carrie Langston Letter to Dad on Tim Stoen
Dad, I don’t thank you should let anybody blackmail us and I thank Tim Stone should be killed and all the others traders [traitors] that has left us I thank you should let outside help do the job for us or if necserry [necessary] we all go back and kill all the SOBs. I don’t like killing but this is the only way we will be let alone. Thank you dad for this beautiful land and everything els.
Carrie Langston
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Undated Thank You to Jim Jones from Zuretti Langston
EE-2-k-15
Dad there is no words to express the love, you give to all of us. I can say thank you again and again, and that’s still not enough. But I’ll say it again. Thank you Dad for saving Marianita [Langston] life again.
Zuretti Langston
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EE-1-L-32 – L-33
Undated letter to Jim Jones from Marie Lawrence
To: Dad
From: Marie Lawrence
Dad I am proud to have been asked by you to become a member of such a community as Peoples Temple here in Jonestown and the United States. I am glad that my offspring are here as I really think about I could be dead, but they could be do some of the things that sent me to jail & prison so many times in my youth. As I look at the things that are here in Guyana in Jonestown that will make a beautiful future for my/our children I sincerely thank you for asking us here.
My daughter Dee Dee who is in the Jonestown drill team and who represents us in the P.N.C. [People’s National Congress] could be a tamp or whored [tramp or whore] lost in some big city now as so many other young girls are. She would not have all the advantages of this group to protect and love her, to fight her battles. The fact is I have 4 children but looking at Dee Dee today dancing for the guest and remembering how I wanted to dance and be an important representative for something as a youth and never got any place – and how I went from man to man looking for purpose through sexual activity which never got me any place – I thank you Dad that Dee Dee has a chance to be excepted here as a whole women with talents and the ability to be productive because of her abilities not because of any sexual knowledge she may or may not pick up when the times come for that. Thank you for the opportunity you allow me to study with our engineer and develop my ideas to help myself & others as I’ve always dreamed I wanted to do, but because of my role in Amerikaka as a third class black female citizen I was never allowed the chances you are giving all females here. Thank you also for being my Dad in such an individual way, to meet all my needs whatever they are even though I really don’t deserve anything. Thank you for loving all of us and living to teach us how to be true humans & socialist. Thank you for loving Vickie-Wabley & Jameel also and seeing to it that they get the right training to bring them in to the right projection necessary to become tried socialist representatives in the third world.
Thank you, Dad
Marie
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EE-1-L-1
Photocopy of Carolyn Layton’s passport.
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Writings of Rita Tupper [Lenin]
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EE-1-L-21 – L-22
Undated letter to Jim Jones from Evelyn LeRoy
Father,
This is my list of men and women who I am sexually attracted to.
women
Cynthia Davis – because she has an understanding of homosexuality that I don’t have yet and she isn’t afraid, she is dominating
Leslie Wagner – she is like a mom figure and we can talk
Maurine Tally [Maureen Talley Fitch] – she knows alot about sex & how to make you feel good even though we never had sex.
Renee Geig [Gieg] – she has a sexy way about her & a beautiful face.
Joan Pursley – we used to sit on the bus & give each other foot massage & she talked a lot of principle to me.
Karen Layton – because she has a way about her that seems sexy but I like her motherly attitude she gave me in town.
Deb Touchette – she is so beautiful and I love her pretty smile & she has a small waist and big hips.
men
Danny Moten [Moton] – he doesn’t really physically attract me but he is very kind & considerate and because of my narcissism I know he likes me alot & I want someone who will stay with me & not fool around.
Ronnie James – he doesn’t act chauvinistic & he physically attracts me.
Sebastian McMurry – we used to go together & I never stopped liking him, we had sex and of all the people I had sex with he was pretty good.
Jimmy Jones Jr. – I am physically attracted because he is very handsome & tall & shows a lot of principle for a young man.
Johnny Jones – He seems like a dad image & has a strength about him whenever he speaks plus he’s very good looking.
Tony Walker – I liked him before I went with Danny, he physically attracts me.
Lew Jones – he physically attracts me because of the way he acts and he’s funny to talk to and I admire his care for his child & other children.
Albert Touchette – he has a good physic and he seems shy.
Thank you Father & Mother for helping me to face my homosexual feelings more which makes me feel more secure and cared for. Thank you Father for being my real dad & showing me true love I’ve never had. Sincerely, Evelyn Leroy
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EE-1-L-35
Undated letter to Jim Jones from Evelyn LeRoy
Father
Thank you for bringing me into this beautiful free socialist country to live. I want to tell you my feelings and reactions from when I first came.
When I first set foot on Guyanese soil after the plane landed I felt such a thrill. I couldn’t stop smiling and laughing for joy. The ride home from the airport was nice. It started raining, and blew in my face which felt great. After reaching home was the best part, seeing you and the rest of the family we hadn’t seen in so long. Sleep came easy on the roof. The next morning I went out with Pattie & John to procure vegetables and run errands. It was so wonderful to see so many brown & black faces and when an occational white face was seen the wern’t the racial tentions felt like in the U.S. The people are so friendly and very hospitable. This is a place where I know I fit in. All of the troubles my so called dad caused and the tentions and burdens of having an outside job I gratefully left behind. I realize that I need improvement in many areas. I need to organize myself and do the job that has been assigned to me here. The best way to work is in freedom, so I’m getting aboard.
Thank you so much again! Everything is just as you told us it would be, and I know Jonestown is even better.
Thank you Father,
Evelyn LeRoy
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EE-1-L-49
Undated note about Doris Lewis from an unnamed resident
Doris Lewis
sounds desperate
wants to leave for FL [Freedom Land] w/ children
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EE-1-L-50 – L-53
Undated letter to Jim Jones from Doris Lewis
Peace Father,
I’ve been depressed about not having my children over there with you & the family. I’m ready to come also, but would be glad to stay back & work if needed. I’m told my husband Fred Lewis was holding us back. The children are ready to leave him & so am I. I feel no guilt about taking children, because he has never been a Dad to them. I’m not the best moms either, but I know they’ll be 100% better with you. Their Dad might talk for a little while, but I believe if his sister Fairy Norwood and his mom Julia Gales come over. He’ll either want to come or shut up. I had to apply for welfare while he’s in the house, would not give me or children money. I lived in fear of being arrested anytime. That didn’t change, he still doesn’t bring his check home. I’m no longer on welfare. He never takes his children anywhere. Never takes responsibility for anything
When I was working for Post Office & even now, he will not help with the children. When I yell at them or try to discipline them, he never support me, instead, he takes their side. Never wants to pay any bill on time. He said all kind of demeaning things about me in front of children. I in turn defend myself & the house become a three ring circus – Don’t Bathe, never clean up after himself. But when kids are sloppy or show disrespect he blames it on me or PT. Father this man, don’t drink – but he’s so ignorant you’d think his brains has fermented.
He tell the boys to marry someone white because they’ll make it. Calls me Sapphire. Thinks its funny. Told Diane Louie she should pass for white.
He lost his business because he gamble funds or gave away merchandise. He personally stood up & asked for your help. You showed so much compassion for him. You had warned him before that he had better stay close to you. I haven’t slept with this man for several years now, of course he blame that on PT too.
I’m ready to come over and work & enjoy working. Once I surrounded myself with weapons, because I was ready to kill him, because I’ve asked him to leave this house. Naturally he has not left, but I thought I’d only go to prison & the kids may never get over there. And I deplore fighting senselessly.
Father I feel like I can no longer stand this situation. I hated to write this letter because I know other people with their children are still here, but I just can’t stand to think that a person who thinks like my husband can keep somebody back. I’m ready to leave now or at least after school is out.
I want my children to be free, to really live as I’ve never done. Thank you for this opportunity to write you. And thank you for letting Karen [Lewis] come over. I hear she has lost so much weight. She is so glad. Thank you again. I appreciate you.
Doris Lewis
These children are being ruined. Freddie Jr. never wants to go to school. He teases his sisters at home & disrupt classes by capping on teachers & children. Barry just wants to watch TV 24 hrs a day. His Dad encourages him.
Lisa has been depressed.
I feel we have felled them as parents, but you & the rest of the family will surely help them & me too.
Doris Lewis
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EE-1-L-58
Undated letter to Jim Jones from Lue Ester Lewis
Dear Dad,
Thank you for Jonestown. I do appreciate all your blessing’s, Every day I can hear your voice saying to all of us, I love you or much love. There is no one like you. Thank you, Thank you. I am just greatful to you. Lue Ester Lewis
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Note by Lue Ester Lewis on Jim Jones’ Pain, May 1978
EE-2-k-8a
May 27, 1978
Dear Dad,
I feel that your most pains come from people that you love, who work against your stand [on] freedom. People that could be helpful and refuse after seeing your examples. I realize now that pain never stops, I thank you for strength and love.
You are my source of life. I’ve never had a Father like you. I do care and appreciate all blessings.
Thank you Dad
Lue Ester [Lewis]
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EE-1-L-23
Letter to Jim Jones from Beverly Livingston, October 19, 1977
Father
As far as sex is concerned, when I first came here I was like a Bitch in heat. Jerry [Livingston] and I fucked for 2 or 3 weeks and got it out of my system. Now I don’t even want a hug. In the States I was attracted to Jim McElvaine and still am. as for women Im attracted to Karen Layton.
Beverly Livingston
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EE-1-L-27
Undated note from Jerry Dwight Livingston
I am a Marxist-Leninist and I completely believe in Communism I believe that the government of the United States should be violently overthrown. I would be willing to kill Nelson Rockefeller and in fact I will kill him and anybody else to make this happen.
Jerry Dwight Livingston
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EE-1-L-46
Undated note from Jerry Livingston
I Jerry Livingston on 19. Give my resignation as a member of People’s Temple. I know Jim Jones to be a man of the highest esteem and he portrays great principle and character. But I wish to do my own thing and not dedicate my life to this humanitarian work.
Jerry Livingston
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EE-1-L-63
Undated note from an unnamed resident, clearing note for letter addressed to Love Life Lowe
Love Life
Read to Lovelife already
RT [likely Ruth Tupper, on Letters Committee]
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EE-1-L-64 – L-65
A letter to Love Life Lowe, August 13, 1977, written by “Bonnie”
08/13/1977
Dearest Love Life,
You really surprised me! I decided to come or spend the day with you & Marcie only to discover you have become a pioneer!
Will you find someone to whom you can dictate a letter & communicate with me? You are in my thoughts daily – I contrive to hold you close to my heart & love you dearly & deeply.
How do you like Guyana? What is the weather like there? Are you happy there? I think of you & speak to Father about you constantly.
Stephan & I are fine.
I have now become the sales manager for the City of San Jose with the insurance co. I work for.
I have a lovely person who I had hoped for you to meet. He has become a beautiful friend to me & may become morethan a friend in the future. His name is Anthony Jonathan. I’ll tell you more later.
Stephan is ten in September. He’s almost so tall as I am & his hair is turning dark like [illegible name]. He sends his love. So does Anthony, my friend.
I love you sweetheart. Let your heart & mind be at peace. Your love, Bonnie
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Thank You Note to Jim Jones from Helen Love, June 1978
EE-2-k-7a – 7b
Sat June 3 – 78
Have been wanting to write you a long time, but I know you know all things. I wrote telling you of trying to make a quilt, to make money for the cause, as you asked us. Thank you for trying to take the test you gave us. I’m trying, please help me, the eyes bother me, a lot of falling set me back a couple of days from the news, when I cracked a rib & had to go to the health stat. I help on rice, so I will be looking at the quilt crochet so long. Thanks for everything you’ve done for me, I couldn’t be in a better place. Only someone steals everything I’m using, no matter my back is turned, my soap from over my head, a good watch I had to repair, and only a piece of plastic to use in case of rain, they took that, a little manicure scissors to cut my work with, & I got so angry I said if I caught them I’d cut them with my knife, so I thought they were just waiting for me to move in to start stealing from me, and to think I would never take anything from anyone.
Thank you to please forgive me for being so angry, for as you know I never cut anyone before when I was so angry I could not think. I want so much to be kind like you, but I’m so far from it. I have no security for they won’t give me one. I used to be with Jeffrey down by your house & when they came here, Alma [Thomas] put her in over me but I thank you for you know why, though I was never late. I thank you for everything Dear, and I love you so much.
Your Helen Love
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EE-1-L-36
Letter to Jim Jones from Ruth Whiteside Lowery, December 20, 1977
Dear Dad,
Thank you for being such a wonderful dad. I truefully do appreciate being in Jonestown, and I also like any job with the medical Team.
However, I realize there is a job that need to be done concerning Tim Stone [Stoen]. I feel that I should be killed if I can’t do the job, I would be more than glad to do it, that way I would know that I have been of service to this great cause.
Peace and Love
Comrade Lowery
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EE-1-L-39
Undated letter to Jim Jones from Ruth Whiteside Lowery
Dear Dad;
Thank you for accepting me as a part of this great movement. With your help, I do hope to be a good Communist.
I now realize that in order to become a good communism one has to become very crittical of one selve that I have not done.
Here are some of my fauts: I like to be prized to much, I am to critical of others, I am to sensitive, I am always thinking that someone is talking about me.
Please, make me what you want me to be.
Peace and Love
Commrade Lowery
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EE-1-L-2
Undated note from Jean Lucas
in Workers
South Carolina
Responsible Media
Gays
Joyce – Charley – Johnnie & Ava
Lovie Jean Lucas
[Scribbled on the side: Harassment Carolyn Lom [Looman] affidavits who called]
Minority Struggle
Mercenaries
Commentary on S. Africa
Handicap Problems
Native Americans
Nursing Care for Seniors
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EE-1-L-3 – L-4
Undated letter from Lovie Jean Lucas to Joyce Touchette
Dear Joyce,
I wonder if you, Charley [Charlie Touchette], Johnnie [Johnny Brown Jones], and Ava [Ava Cobb], could help out without bothering Father?
I have many problems, so to start with I have been here six weeks already and have been expecting my luggage to arrive, but after a conversation with Anita Kelly yesterday, I glean that she repacked my things at the temple on S.F. and sent me only what she wanted to, this is the way I understand it now. If this is the case, then I have no luggage coming, which means all of my personal belongings are destroyed. I wonder if the four of you can get the real understanding from her because I can’t & do not understand at all. What I have in this one piece of luggage is rags, and things that are too small for me, I brought them to share with someone but my personal things are not in this case, and it was not well packed, all I have is, well I will ask Ava to come and see, make a list.
Next I would like to know if it is true that Father said to bring two dogs, the reason for this is that is what she told me and I had the dogs processed here; the bill, and I have heard no more.
My records
~ Banjo
~ Guitar
My Clothes
~ Cameras
~ Radio
~ Personals etc.
I do thank you,
Lovie Jean Lucas
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EE-3-IIII
Undated Self Analysis by Jean Lucas
Self Analysis
Jean Lucas
- Hostility? – the deepest.
- Commitment? – Super excellent plus.
- Elitrism? Come see come sar? So so.
- Intellectism? – average.
- Reaction to authority? – Not too good. Resent coercion but will do. Have own mind. So long.
- How do you feel about Dad? That he is the highest personified without equal, the fairest administrator of righteous justice and truth on earth.
- How do you see yourself? I feel that I have paid the price mentally, morally, socially, financially and otherwise.
- Sexual games – when 2 people like each other very much, then love is born, then sex will seal that love in “ecstasy.”
- How do you feel, react to dieing or death? My new version has given me courage that I never thought I could perceive, but now I would die a revolutionary death for what I believe, be it whatever degree, friendship, etc.
- Your inner feelings – Music – works – pets. I am not happy unless I follow my own volunteer volition. I leave everyone free to my own thoughts, whatever. Whatever he does if it makes him happy as long as it doesn’t hurt anyone else, not my business. Guess I am a beloved anarchist?
- How do you see others? Realizing that there are no people exactly alike, I look for whatever each has to offer and I learn as I go through life. I do like people.
Jean Lucas
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EE-3-JJJJ-1 – JJJJ-2
Lovie Jean Lucas request to return to US
Dear Dad Jim,
What I have been trying to tell you for the past 12 mo since I have been here, I thought that I had not try to compose it lightly, as coming down the road with the truth is the only way with you. First of all, Dad, I, Lovie Jean Lucas, have not told you one lie and I ask you to put me to the test by giving me truth serum, and if I have told you one lie, I will take my own life. I never will tell you a lie, I will lie for the Cause, but I have no reason to lie. About what? I think I that must tell you just some of the points of this affair and you will know why I have been made to feel this way. I was very happy in S.F. with my dogs, my work, my old friend, and the Temple and my music. Naturally, if I leave that I expect to be happier land free, but something happened and now, I am the happiest & saddest person in this city here and I have been from the beganing because of what Estelle did to me. She is the one who processed me to come here. Leona Collier processed Margaret James and did a beautiful job. All of Margaret’s things came intact and she had said many times how nice and fair Leona was compared to Estelle. This is why I say that my leaving did not have to be this way and because it was done this way, it has scarred my mind, and tramatized me and so ruined my life. I can not live with what has happened to me, I can not take it, the more I think of it and there has not been an hour that I do not think of this as it has become a part of worry that lives within me.
Dad, here is point one. Estelle had seen I had lots of valuables, everything. She saw wherein she could get into this by getting me away. I know these tactics as I have worked on the streets for over thirty years, but I could not believe that anyone from the Temple would con and rip me off. I had signed over my home and I was getting ready myself. As long as others had time I know that I could have. I know that it is customary in some cases to even send people on from the service “meetings” but this was not for me because they got together and told me Dad, that you said for me to come on right away, that they had written me up to Mother and that Mother had radioed you and that you said that you knew that I would not leave my dogs and to bring 2 dogs on the plane with me and that you would send the other 5 dogs on shortly after I got here. Well, that has been over two years and I have not received my dogs and I wonder about the equality. This is why I went on with the “going back” because I could see that the dog situation would be a burden here. Mother said she did not recall anything like they told me so I realized then what really had happened. Dad, there is so much more. Please forgive me for writing this much. I really did not mean to but praise your holy name that you made it possible for me to get word to you, when all I have left is a mustard seed, but you always come through. Dad, I want to leave for S.F. as soon as you can let me. Dad, I do not want to hurt you or go on the floor anymore. I thank you any way you arrange for me. I’m concerned about my age and all, many things. I will take all tests. I may be leaving out the main things. Sign all papers counsel. Thank you Dad Jim!
LJL
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EE-3-KKKK-1 – KKKK-2
Lovie Jean Lucas second request to return to US
(That you had made a new rule)
This is Monday.
Dear Dad Jim,
My full intention is to go back to S.F. I think it was about a month ago you said for the counselors to get with the ones who wanted to go back and get their problems, but they did not follow thru, and I have been waiting and waiting and waiting, and about last Thursday or somewhere around there, I got a strong instinctive urge to get ready, pack and so I did. I’m all packed. I gave my tools last week to James Edwards and he will check them out to whoever wants to use them and they check them back, etc. for the collective. I have taken care of many things, all things as I do not want but one change so I have no luggage but one small handbag. I have the feeling that my state of mind pulls on you and you do not need that at this time. I did all of this because of this urge that I got. James Edwards can tell you I took the tools to him last week. He does not know any more than that. This was before we knew that Leona [Collier] was coming but when she arrived and said she was going back, it came to my mind to write you to allow me to go back with her.
Dad, nothing else is going to help me but a trip and when I came here, prepared to go back on a trip, it shifted into a “going back” thing. All of this has been a misdirected mess, and I would like to bury the whole thing and start all over again, so I am asking you to ease my mind, heart and soul and whatever arrangement can be made, let me know soon. Dad, I wish everyone did not have to know about this again. I have been with this cause for over 5 years and was never on the floor and never took anyone to the floor and the image that I got since I’m here is a sad one as I do not like to go on the floor and most of all, I do not want this to hurt you. Its true that I have had negative thoughts lately, thinking that I am niglected because of my age, weakness, etc, but you said wait and that is what I did and too I will never know why I have to wait till the battle is on, when I could have been there and back, because I asked when I first came here, over there when they say wait, that means justice delayed is justice denied. But I have not yet seen you do any wrong. The only thing about it is I never seem to make contack to get out of the unjust mess that I seem to have inherited while I’m on this subject. Dad, I have never told you one lie and I will request truth serium, sign any papers, do whatever you say because I am in a state of suspended anamation and this image that is here is not me. It is the same as I told you in my other letters but I do not know if you got or get my letters or not. Thank you for this way now. I wish I could tell you how the unfolding of Jonestown and about how I am relieved about the conspiracy. I wish I could thank you enough for you great love for all of us. That is why I came into the Temple, because of your Love. Dad, I have my plans all worked out. If I may, I’d like to send Patty a box of jewelry etc a month to sell in the shop. I have about a thousand $ worth of stuff to give before I go. Jewelry, tape. May I hear. Thank you, Dad.
L. Jean Lucas
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EE-1-L-126
Undated note to Terri Buford from Chris Kice
TO: Terry Buford
FROM: Chris Kice
RE: Lovie Jean Lucas
Gene Chaikin suggested you recieve this info. & that perhaps it be conveyed to Jim in the event that Lovie may decide to come back to the U.S.
She left fo the P.L. [Promised Land] about one month ago, & left behind:
– Gas, phone, & utility & rent bills
– She was being paid by Social Services to take care of an older man, did a very poor job of it & the agency wants to sue.
– She put the old man’s money in her own bank account, ($700./mo.) took it all with her, he has nothing, & his niece wants to sue.
– It is suspected, she left other people holding the bag; one man showed up at the church demanding to see her regarding a property settlement.
Considering all this, Lovie would do very well to stay put.
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EE-1-L-26
Letter of October 28, addressed to Christine [likely Lucientes]
Oct. 28,
Dear Christine,
Thanks for the letter, you express yourself quite well. Maybe I never told you, so, you might doubt, I have always known of your fine mind, and creative abilities. There were many times that my head would swell with pride over one of your successes, even in prison, when I heard of your fine academic acomplishments, I felt a little better knowing that you were taking care of yourself well.
From the time I was 14 to the time I was 35, I was an atheist for the most part also a stuck up Republican capitalist. Twenty one years to find a little peace, and each year seems to be better. I think I’m pretty happy, but maybe I haven’t really experienced so how can I know.
I approve of your desire to be of help in a world that can use it, I believe that life is experience. The more experience one has, the more chance for gro when you stop growing you are dying. I’m sure that the things you are doing now, will influence you very much in [illegible word] ways. Christine I applaud you.
good luck!
love [illegible word]
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EE-1-L-43
Note from Christine Lucientes, January 2, 1978
At People’s Rally you asked for a showing of hands of those who couldn’t muster any sexual feelings during this crisis time. Like a fool I raised my hand and lyingly took the popular position. I cannot say that I am aflame with sexuality but I have had fleeting fantasies of companionship. However if push came to shove death would have more appeal or I’d rather fight than fuck! Christine
Christine Lucientes
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EE-1-L-44
Undated note written on envelope addressed to Jim Jones from Christine Lucientes
TO: Jim Jones
FR: Christine
RE: Update
Jack Barron: Uses to many words that leave the class dumbfounded. He should define or come to a more simple way of teaching
Com. Minsin: The coe-teacher gets off the subject to much
Lois P. [Ponts] No one in the back of the class can her the lesson she is trying to get they said they have told her this complaint but she does not comply
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Memo from Christine Lucientes on Debbie Blakey, Spring 1978
BB-3-bb
To: JJ
Fr: CRL [Christine Lucientes]
Re: Clarification
If it makes any difference, Debbie never told me anything negative about not living with Phillip [Blakey]. She merely stated that she felt you did not want her to live with him as she was in a position of handling money and should not be involved in a relationship. She never said anything negative or hostile, I just got the impression that she wasn’t happy about the situation.
I do not want you to think that I was father about what PJ said because I was not. I merely told KL [Karen Layton] what PJ Ed told me about Debbie, and because I wondered if she had said the same thing to Debbie, as she liked Debbie a lot and used to spend time with her, especially on Sunday. She stated that she missed Debbie a lot and that is why I told you that I was worried about how she would take her defection. When PJ told me this she was unhappy. I think she was just telling me things that had piled up on her because she was emotional at the time. I don’t think she was being divisive, she just wanted me to assure her that she was not to blame. She also in the conversation said that she was to blame in many ways for Mike leaving, because of the 3 days that she left. This is not to say that I have not been guilty of not reporting negatively between PJ and I, or unhealthy alliances that we have formed over the years. I did not report many things because I do not want to cross Patty, who is in my mind, relentless, mean and extremely vindictive. PJ is her alter ego, she lives thru her and woe be unto anyone who casts aspersions on her. I can honestly say that I have never met anyone so mean except someone who has left the cause and become evil. That may be purely my bias but that is how I feel and I don’t want to cross her. I am not afraid of dying, but crossing Patty is not that simple nor easy, it just makes dying all the more desirable.
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Memo from Christine Lucientes on Blakey defection, May 1978
BB-3-ii
JJ:
From: CRL
I am not fishing for verification but I think it is Debbie B. and she expressed conflict – she wanted to live with Phillip but felt that you disapproved and backed up with what I thought was conflict. She also has conflict about being exposed for being helped sexually and was interested to know that you had told me that I could become what someone if I wanted to. I feel that she (if it is her) maybe alienated because when in G/T [Georgetown] it became difficult not to be paranoid with you here, and knowing you are trepidatious of people there.
That they are not taking $ could indicate that the relative is funding them and would mean they are far more dependent on the relative (in her case a vicious dad). It would almost seem better if they had stolen a large sum to make them independent of the family.
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Self-Evaluation by Christine Lucientes, July 1978
EE-2-k-9a
July 10, 1978
To: JJ
Fr: CRL [Christine Lucientes]
Re: Requested evaluation
I am not sure what specifically you wanted. I assume it is a self-evaluation. However I am reluctant to express what I feel you will not like hearing, because when I had done it in the past, it has angered you tremendously, i.e. when I expressed that I did not believe that we killed a man and he was eaten. You expressed that indicated a reserve for treason. I feel like I am in a double bind – I need to express where I am at, but I am reluctant to anger you. So I will proceed gingerly…
Faults:
(A) I, like Dick, have always maintained a place of sanction in my thoughts. Whenever I have been most pressured and distraught by what I interpreted as perpetual violations of normal limits of privacy – i.e. crowding – noise – etc. I consoled myself that there is a part of me that no one can touch. I feel that it is a defense against insanity and can see how it could be a reserve for treason, but I don’t know how to dispense with this reserve without becoming a babbling maniac. I don’t really know if it is possible to dispense with this reserve. At this point in time I’m not at a bad spot – it is cyclical and will pass but I am feeling pressured and I get hostile when I am pressured. I am more flexible when I am not pressured and I am more humble. I feel I am capable of being very honest when I don’t have something over my head that can be used against me. I do not feel free because I know if what I say hits you at a bad time, I risk public exposure for my two worst crimes. 1. Sex 2. Money. I would be more honest if I didn’t feel I had something to protect.
(B) Betrayal. I have no desire to be in a position to betray. I don’t want to be outside the borders of Jonestown and I don’t ever expect to. When I came in from G/town [Georgetown] I viewed myself as coming in to fulfill a life sentence. I resolved to myself that I would refuse to go to G/town for any reason whatsoever. I don’t feel that I will betray. As hostile as I have gotten, as skeptical as I am – I know you are getting nothing from this. I am convinced of that
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EE-2-k-9b
and I feel that anyone who betrays feels that you are getting something out of leading. I can say that I have disagreements with you that I view some things differently than you but no way can I be convinced that you are getting anything but overall pain and that has convinced me when I have had my questions about policies.
(C) Family. They offer nothing that attracts me. José, in fact, wrote me that all his life he has wanted to be in the position that he is in now – free to do what he wants, go where he wants, work where, when and how he wants … and he can’t get started – he is doing nothing. He said that he never thought it would be like that. I know that boredom – totally doing your own thing and how oppressively boring and unfulfilling that is. I never want to go back to that. After 10 years of divorce, I still am too sentimental about my family. I have feelings and pain about them but I don’t want to go down to their level. I wish that they would come up to the level of Socialism. I don’t believe it would be possible unless it came thru “the barrel of a gun.” Unless they were trapped here – I hate to admit it but I wish they were forced to be here and they would have to change. But there are several billion people of them who deserve that opportunity. So – I admit feelings for the Lucientes’ but no desire to join them.
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Undated Letter to Jim Jones from Christine Lucientes
EE-2-k-11
To: JJ
Fr: CRL [Christine Lucientes]
A PROBLEM
Let me begin with a simple clarification; this note is not intended to provoke a response of reassurance in any form. In fact, I would be eternally grateful if I’m ignored from here on out go to the trouble I foresee. Anyone who approaches me in the near future will be immediately suspect. This note is inspired out of an admission of ambivalence, guilt, confusion and concern.
As you may know, I am not really close to many people. In the past I used to talk to Ron Talley and I have been friends with Patricia [Cartmell] out of necessity, the need to escape and habit. Please keep in mind that as alienated as I am I get nothing on the reporting PJ, believe me. It is very hard to do.
I feel that PJ is quite negative about J/T structure, I am too and I am inclined to share her views and see them as benign. However I felt responsible for two reasons. 1) she is out in the community. 2) more than anything – I interpreted that she deliberately attempted to be divisive and alienate me from you by telling me things that people had said about me. It didn’t make me hostile to them, tho she doesn’t realize it, it may be hostile to her. She has always asked me if I have heard anything negative about her – present or past and I would not shake her confidence by saying such things and I never have. She also told me that Guyanese will never trust us and we will never be accepted and we are not liked. (I can see this, tho in the total picture of the situation ou conversation the comment took on more negative connotations).
After she talked to me in a negative way about JT she begged me not to tell – she said that she would kill herself if I did. I assured her that I would not. The worst thing that I told her wasn’t after Debbie [Blakey] left you told me that Lew [Jones] and I are responsible for Debbie’s treason because we had stolen. I told PJ that I was not the one that had told her. I also told her that I was very upset when you thought I had told DB that it was a prison camp here.
I know what you think of me and I’d just as soon be dead than not. I hope this doesn’t hit the floor. I know people don’t like me and I don’t think I can live without some image. Manipulative? I think it is true anyway.
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Undated Letter to Jim Jones from Christine Lucientes
EE-2-k-12
Mary Lou [Clancey], Mike Prokes, or whomever
Please relay info to Jim that I had no intentions of demanding to talk to him. I really didn’t. I was upset because all I have is my image and it is totally gone. I committed myself to not talking to PJ or Ron anymore and all of a sudden I felt overwhelmed because I have an unusual need to express myself. I didn’t feel I could cope with my feelings without giving them some vent. After I went to the radio room and expressed this – it was all over. I was ready to go to bed. KL [Karen Layton] insisted that I go to SCU [Special Care Unit] to “sleep it off.” I resisted because I felt I would be made into a drugged zombie. I was promised it would be for one night. When I got up for a shower, I wanted to sit on the front porch which agitated the nurse who assisted I was to be on bed rest. I went by the radio room & told Mike who told me to go to KL’s house and talk to her. I was not trying to escape at all and I do not intend to. I am sorry 2 security are on me because I am doing nothing.
Mary Lou – could you bring my toothbrush & brush?
CRL [Christine Lucientes]
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EE-1-L-47 – L-48
Undated letter from Chris Lund [Rozynko]
Concerning Head of GDF [Guyanese Defense Forces]
Wining and dining him is a good idea and getting him interested in someone is also good.
Perhaps he can be invited to spend his time here, vacation or whatever. Make him an honorary town citizen and have a house of his own here offer our Doctor as a personal health aid. Does he have children? DO something for them. Offer to spend time with them and or even bring them here later
In [illegible words] make accusations about what a [illegible words] saying he is too good. [illegible word] his ego.
Perhaps suggest we respect him so much that we wish to have some of our people go to his army. Perhaps we can do the same for the [illegible word] local garrison.
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EE-1-L-13 – L-15
Undated letter to Jim Jones from Joyce Lund [Rozynko]
Dear Dad,
When I first came to Peoples Temple, you were so kind, I was flattered and took it personally It took me some time to realize that personally I meant nothing to you, I was just another soul sucking help. But you are very good-looking too, and I was very sexually attracted to you for both reasons.
My hostility started when I began to realize that it wasn’t enough to just be a member in the cause There were responsibilities too, and I didn’t like having to face them just as I haven’t wanted the responsibilities a nurse has. And never hope for anyone to say “you did a good job today” just pray you I didn’t make a mistake or fail in the responsibilities and get ass chewed.
It’s a difficult thing to deal with to realize that you can receive all the help you need, but no personal “for you only” kind. That you are cared for but only on a detached basis. I was accustomed to the selfish manipulative “love” of capitalism, that you’d put yourself out on a limb & cut it off for any one of us, but still impersonally, I found difficult to accept. I wonder how you’ve so successfully escaped “traps” set for you by women more manipulative and subtle than I, and retained your integrity, that’s really a wonder!
I suppose this shows more than anything how vain I must have been – “Elitism?” And to never even hope for anything different so I became like the fox who couldn’t get the grapes as told by Aesop, and became very negative. It was hard to work that through I hope I’ve come out the other side a somewhat better person, and I really hope I’ve come out the other side.
I enjoyed your chat last night. I wish you’d have more of them. You praised Patty C [Patty Cartmell] for her retentive memory – and she indeed had a very good memory for details. She remembered all about that 400 lb woman who became pg [pregnant] by a preacher, about the woman who was warned she’d die after the last of the 12 lights lights on her mirror burned out. Also about some else who was warned they’d die in the Spring.
You spoke of the man who thought he was J.C. & you were God? – and he kept you in a constant state of anxiety because he came to R.V. [Redwood Valley] when you came and stayed sometime, before he left & went to Florida? Couldn’t hear you well?
You spoke of the accidents you had in which all the young people were involved – got hit by a drunken driver, and the one in which Jimmy Jr. [Jim Jones Jr., adopted son of Jim and Marceline Jones] was almost killed & ruptured his spleen. (Incidentally I worked @ Ukiah Gen. Hosp at that time. I was on duty when the first accident occurred and I remember you standing in the hallway after you’d seen the young people – those you could – and you watched me run up & down the hall getting things and calling the x-ray tech & surgery crew. I didn’t get home until after 1 am that night. One girl had glass in her hair & I tried to lift the hair to brush it out & her whole scalp came with it!
The drunk got sick & tired of getting no attention I suppose for all of a sudden she slid off the chair to the floor getting in everyone’s way and so another aide & I picked her up like a bag of flour by feet & shoulders and tossed her on a gurney privately hoping she’d fall off & break her damn neck. I hadn’t remembered it was New Year’s Eve – what a nite for you!). Alas Kathy Stahl had amnesia & after a week it suddenly came back, and the whole staff thought she’d been faking – but it was you who did it.
I enjoy hearing you talk, but so rarely can. Perhaps others have told you, perhaps not. Many times your voice is lost in the movement & whispering or outright talking by others In the nurses’ office it’s very exasperating. Everyone under the dining tent ignores you & chatter on @ a great rate unless you specifically tell them to be quieter. They might quiet down a little if someone else tells them but only you can make them stop talking.
Also the speakers front & behind the Comm Bldg cause an echoe so allot of what you say is so confusing, I cannot understand & many others complain of this too. Could we someday have a speaker in the C.B.? Even in my own house last nite the people young & older talked, played tape records & I had to ask them several times to be quiet – it really makes me angry.
I loved your discussion of the communist manifesto and I think I finally heard it all when you played it at nite.
Thank you of approving of my new name. How I hope “Joyce Rozynko” will die. I know we don’t become new people overnite just because one changes their name. But perhaps it will create good enough vibrations so I’ll be able to be a better person.
Thank you
Joyce Lund
Also thank you for the Good Music – I taped over a month of classical selections from Radio in March-April & May last Spring – it’s so nice to hear it now. Thanks. JL
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EE-1-L-9
Test answers written by Rita Tupper, as dictated by Pearl Lund
Why We Left the U.S.
Written by Rita Tupper as she gave he answers.
Senate Bill 1427
Didn’t want the Black man to have an education.
Planned Genocide –
Put the Blacks in concentration camps. Plan to hurt Black people & whites go free
When the police asked you questions, you had to answer the way he wanted you too, or you will be hurt.
To live in a country of Socialism to feed the poor, get people out of jail.
Pearl Lund
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BB-31-a-255
Diane Lundquist Letter to Dad on Tim Stoen
Jim –
Traitors should all be killed. I would be willing to get in a meeting with all or as many of them as I could.
I would be willing to carry some kind of explosive device on my body and kill them all.
I would not care if I die too, it would be worth it.
Diane Lundquist
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BB-31-a-117
Magaline Lyles Letter to Dad on Tim Stoen
Dear Dad I am writing to you about Tim Stone it seemed to me he have forgotten where you have brought him from he is caught up in a world of his own capitalist. He don’t give a damn. I believe he is being Paid because all Lawyers talk with one another and ask question they make decisions too no don’t pay him anything he must pay the penalty for putting you through this shit because capitalist will get him at the end.
Sing [Signed] Magaline Lyles
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EE-1-L-24
Undated letter to Jim Jones from Magaline Lyles
Dear Dad I know I am hostile at the children which I Supervisor also at time I get very hostile at different one when they tell me something also at time the children talk to me & instead of me listen at them I wont hear them out also Dad you spoke on the Pass about how long Eva Pue [Pugh] had been with you 25 yr & also Patty [Cartmell] Joyce [Touchette] & Ester [Esther Mueller] 25 yr Revina [Rheavianna Beam] 25 yr & Bro & Sis Archie Ames [Archie and Rosie Ijames] 25 or 30 yr
Does not Have any Sexual toward you & thank you Dad
Sign Magaline Lyles
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EE-1-L-25
Letter to Jim Jones from Magaline Lyles, February 17, 1978
Dear Dad about the suide death my thought were I did not do enough
The only guilty which I face it were I could not take any of the Capitalist with me
Sign Magaline Lyles
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EE-1-L-59
Undated letter to Jim Jones from Magaline Lyles
Dear Dad I am writing you about I stole some soap from Lula Ruben which I know it were wrong to do this…at the time I stole this soap I did not Have any & the warehouse wouldn’t give any soap out to me I would be willing to go on learning experience for 2 wks also Dad I been beaten shot at by my husband & has been put out door been in jail It doesn’t matter what Happen to my life now I don’t care anymore. I am glad I met someone who like you who care also my children were hungry sign Magaline Lyles
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EE-1-L-60
Undated note from Magaline Lyles
I were heal of a heart attack on the 5-19-73 in LA. Temple when I came to for the first time in my life, I were so happy that I met a man like Jim Jones I were overjoyed & I thank him for the healing
Thank you very much
Dorm 4
Sign Magaline Lyles
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EE-1-L-61
Undated note from Magaline Lyles
My chest were hurting me very much & he call me out & heal me from this pain which were hurting me so badly
I am heal & thank to Jim Jones
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