Can anyone help identify “Lt. S.J. Connor”? Name carved on a wooden piece dated May 1944
https://postimg.cc/gallery/rVNdnYD
I’ve been trying to solve this mystery for several years and am hoping someone here might enjoy the challenge!
Several years ago, I purchased this unusual hand-carved wooden leaf/tray at an antique shop in Bristol, Wisconsin, just a few miles north of the Illinois border. The antique shop has since closed, so unfortunately I don’t have any additional provenance.
On the back is a hand-carved inscription that appears to read:
LT. S.J. CONNOR
MAY 1944
The piece is quite large but the wood is surprisingly lightweight.
I have tried searching for a Lt. S.J. Connor from WWII over the years without success. I don’t know whether Connor was American, whether he was from Wisconsin/Illinois, or even whether he was the person who carved this. It could have been made by him, made for him, purchased as a souvenir, or given to him.
I’m hoping to figure out:
* Who Lt. S.J. Connor might have been
* What branch/country he served with
* Where he was stationed in May 1944
* Whether anyone recognizes this style of wood carving or has seen similar WWII-era pieces
* Whether the type of wood or leaf design offers any clue about where it was made
I’m also open to variations in the name or initials. “Connor” is what it appears to say, but I don’t want to rule out Conner or O’Connor if someone finds a promising lead.
I’d be thrilled with even a small clue that gives me somewhere new to look. I’ve wondered about the person behind this inscription for years and would love to finally give Lt. Connor his story back.
Thanks for taking a look!