A Columbia, South Carolina woman who recently bought an antique sewing machine was surprised to find a 50-year-old love letter hidden inside. Kathi Arnold purchased the machine at a thrift shop, thinking it was a good bargain. Once she got it home, she discovered its real value.
After finding a pair of scissors, some patches and a collection of patterns, Kathi came across a drawer that would not close. When she reached inside the drawer, she removed an old letter written by a soldier to his wife several decades ago.
Sent from Korea and dated in 1963, the letter was penned by Sgt. Walter Smith, who expresses the deep love he felt for his wife, Roberta. He referred to her as being an angel and counted himself lucky for having her in his life.
Kathi wanted to return the letter to its owner, but the thrift shop was not able to give her any information. She finally turned to local station WBRC to get the story out and ask the public for information. Paul Silvaggio, a private investigator, decided to help and soon put Kathi in contact with Roberta’s nephew, Jeffrey Campbell.
Jeffrey said the couple was very happy together and were married until Walter died in 1971. Roberta died one year ago. The sewing machine had originally belonged to Roberta’s mother. Roberta’s sister, Jacki, is looking forward to seeing the long-lost love letter and is glad it is back in the family.