PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania (WPVI) — Despite 50 years of friendship, pen pals Carolyn Evans and Connie McNiel had never met in person. That is, until now.
It started in 1975 when Evans, from Whitehall, Pennsylvania, responded to a television commercial. It encouraged kids like her to send in their information and be matched up with a pen pal.
McNiel’s 5th-grade class in California was on the other end of the deal. She remembers her teacher handing out cards with names and addresses on them.
She sent out two letters, but she only received a response from Evans.
First by mail, then by phone, then by social media, the two pen pals have spent the last half-century side-by-side, but never in person.
They decided they would finally meet in time for their 50th anniversary of friendship.
McNiel flew to Pennsylvania with her husband to meet Evans and her husband at the Hotel Bethlehem. Then, they took a trip to Philadelphia to visit the Art Museum, Independence Hall, and Pat’s King of Steaks.
They continued to enjoy time together in Gettysburg and Hershey Park.
And white this was their first trip together, they say it will not be the last.
Following their childhood aspirations, Evans became a hair stylist and McNiel became a photographer. McNiel is also dedicating her time to creating an ‘All Ages and Abilities Accessible Park’ in her hometown of Carrollton, Georgia.
They hope their story inspires people to connect with one another more often.
Watch the video above to see moments from their special meeting together.
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