7. Moving to the United States

After the pulpwood business disaster, William decided to leave Canada and get a fresh start. In December 1923 he moved his family across the border to the United States and settled first in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

William started selling insurance. His silver tongue, energy and persistence made him a master salesman. He was always on the lookout for sales prospects. William’s errands and shopping trips were also sales prospecting events. When he walked into a store to buy some item, he would have a friendly chat with the owner, the clerks and any customers. Within a few minutes he would know if anyone within the sound of his voice had a need for insurance. Within a few months he rose from rank beginner to the top salesman in his district. When the insurance company passed out prizes for high sales, William Kyro always collected more than his share. William found that he was able to earn an above-average income selling almost anything, Despite temporary financial reverses, the Kyro family never suffered from a lack of money.

They stayed only one year in Minneapolis. Wanderlust claimed William again. The automobile industry was booming. The Kyro family moved to Detroit and William continued in the insurance business as a salesman.

In the mid-1920's there was a huge real estate boom in Florida. William decided to seek a warmer climate and to cash in on the boom. He moved his family to the west coast of Florida, near Manatee and Bradenton. The children attended grade school at Palmetto. William sold Studebaker pocket watches and insurance.

Although high school was growing in popularity, at this time it was still considered normal for children to complete their education with the 8th grade, Therefore finishing the 8th grade was a cause for ceremony and celebration. Laura Kyro completed the 8th grade at Manatee Junior High School in Florida. She was class valedictorian and had the honor of delivering an address at the graduation ceremony.

In less than a year, the real estate boom cooled and the Kyro family left Florida.