I found this oddity many years ago among some McDowell family papers. It dates from the 1950s and originated from the Centralia, Washington area.
A quarter was placed next to the envelope to give you an idea of the scale here.
The only part I can read says: "Mantracarman of the 3rd Caraka Mantra," and "B. Gopila."
Inside the envelope was yet another envelope, and a photo of some people standing around a vintage auto. I am reasonably sure this photo was taken around 1956-1958 in Centralia. One of the people in here is a relative.
OK, so now inside the smaller envelope is a waxy strip of paper with inscriptions on both sides.
My question is: What in the world is this? I've heard a lot of stories, but nothing verified. Rather than color any first impressions, I'll hold off on telling those tales. I'm wondering if a fresh and educated set of eyes can interpret what all this means?
Maybe misspelled and actually "3rd Chakra" as in the solar plexus as part of the 7 body focal points?
ReplyDeleteAnd gopila has an Indian mystique content, "Protector of Cows" I believe as in the "Baby Gopila".
And I wonder if "Mantracarman" is Mantra and Karma conflated and misspelled? Or Manakamana is a famous temple in Nepal. Maybe this iteration of The Flying Dutchman was doing some world tour?
Sincerely,
Matt Watkins (fellow descendant of Jennie Reeves & Theodore Hoss)
Wow! Thanks Matt!
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