A note from the family: We wish Dad, who was a writer, had pre-written his own obituary. Since he did not, we worked together to summarize the highlights of his amazing journey. He was the best father and we know we will see him again in the Kingdom to come. – David, Andrea & Amy … Continue reading An Extended Obituary: Karl K. Taylor, PhD 12/2/1938 – 9/5/2024
Special Topics
“THE KILLERS” at the Visitation
David Karl Taylor reflects on one of his father's fictional works, “The Killers,” written during his father’s college years in 1959. The story captures a young man's experience at a visitation for a beloved doctor, intertwining themes of grief, memory, and the complexities of small-town life. It highlights personal emotions tied to loss.
Remembering David McCullough
Dear Mr. Taylor Thank you very much for taking the time to write and for sending me your essay on Nelson Dean Jay. It was extremely thoughtful of you. Years ago, when I was beginning work on my first book, I had the mistaken idea in my head that I must not talk about what I was doing because someone might steal my idea. I found out soon enough what foolishness that was – that, in fact, I should tell as many as possible about what I was up to, on the chance that some unexpected someone would have information of a kind I might never come across otherwise. And that has been exactly what has happened time and again with each and every project I’ve undertaken, and your material on Mr. Jay is a perfect example. If, as time goes by, you have more you think I should see, I’ll be very pleased to hear from you. In the meantime, I’d love to know whether there are any Jay papers – letter, diaries, and the like – and if so, are they at Knox College? Many thanks and best wishes, David McCullough
Writing, Just for the Heck of It
It’s my daughter’s fault. She’s responsible for ruining my retirement. I’ve had no trips to Europe, few days to go fishing, and fewer days to sleep late. I spend my free time working at the computer.
Chapter One Galesburg, Illinois – June 6, 1960 Graduation Day at Knox College
On June 6, 1960, we seniors were thinking about our future, but Jay may well have been remembering moments from his past. There were certainly memorable ones.
Hudson’s Special Guest
As soon as they opened the door, their eyes were drawn to the checkout lane where a small crowd of people formed a circle around the red haired lady. As I walked up to her, a stranger asked, “Are you…,”
Taylor Johnson: Budding Catcher, Would-Be Writer
He looks the part, the way you would expect: short, a little stocky, bright red cheeks, a butch hair cut, and brown hair. What really draws attention to him are those bright red socks, up to his knees, matching his cheeks. Cool or hot, though, Taylor’s forehead is covered with perspiration. Everybody sweats, but he sweats more than most folks, maybe because he just tries a little harder than most kids, maybe because he has juvenile diabetes.
Now That’s a Salesman
For several decades, I made my semi-annual trips from Illinois to Davenport, Iowa, not just to buy clothes but to see, not just a clothing salesmen, but to visit my friend, Greg. Even if months or years passed between the time when we met, Greg NEVER forgot my name.
Remembering Merle
The kitchen lights went on at 12:45. Five or ten minutes later, Merle came out the basement door and headed for my car window. There was no shouting. There was no remark about how to improve my driving – not even how late it was. Very calmly he said, “I’ll get my tractor and pull you out.”
A Small Town Grocer
Harry Taylor looked the part of an old-fashioned grocer. About five feet ten, he was bald except for a tuft of hair hanging over his forehead. He wore the same kinds of clothes every day: a gray or white long-sleeved dress shirt, a butcher’s apron embossed with “America’s Cup Coffee,” and a black leather bow … Continue reading A Small Town Grocer
Stories From Small Town Illinois 