Stories from the Aunts: Belle Daring and Mattie Lamon
The stories of Leona Belle Swink Daring (1878–1977) and Mattie Swink Lamon (1874–1973), daughters of George W. Swink and pioneering Rocky Ford residents. This article covers their individual accomplishments in business, community leadership, and art.
The Swink Sisters: Belle Daring and Mattie Lamon
Leona Belle Swink Daring (1878–1977) and Mattie Swink Lamon (1874–1973) were daughters of Rocky Ford founder George W. Swink. Both women played significant roles in the early history of the community. [1]
Leona Belle Swink Daring (1878–1977)
Belle Daring was the eleventh child of George W. Swink and became a highly influential businesswoman in the Arkansas Valley. She broke gender norms of her era by establishing and running her own successful insurance and realty company. Additionally, she was a charter member and president of the Rocky Ford Business and Professional Club and was named Otero County's first Realtor of the Year. [1]
Mattie Swink Lamon (1874–1973)
Mattie Lamon was born June 1, 1874, as the first white child born in Rocky Ford. She graduated from Rocky Ford High School and was a member of the Eastern Star, the Rocky Ford Garden Club, and the Grand Army of the Republic. Beyond her community involvement, she was a talented artist whose china painting won first place at the 1904 St. Louis World's Fair. She also operated a millinery store in Rocky Ford and a shop in Denver for several years. [1]
Historical Photos
Where to Find Their Stories
If you are looking to dig deeper into the history of the Swinks, Belle Daring, and Mattie Lamon, local historical records preserve their legacy:
- The Rocky Ford Historical Museum: Housed in a historic 1908 Carnegie Public Library, the Rocky Ford Historical Museum displays early family memorabilia, including a rare porcelain Watermelon Day set belonging to the Swink family. [2]
- Local Newspaper Archives: The archives of the old local newspaper, the Rocky Ford Enterprise, frequently chronicle the everyday business transactions, local notes, and community updates of the Swink family during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Sources
- Valley View & Hill Crest Cemetery National Register Nomination — History Colorado
- Rocky Ford Historical Museum — City of Rocky Ford, CO
- Rocky Ford Enterprise — Library of Congress Chronicling America