Jan and John Maggs Antiques
A nineteenth century diary
Several years ago we purchased a small lot of Deerfield material at a local auction. The material related to the Williams family of Deerfield and most of it is now in the collection of a scholar whose work includes important Deerfield research.
The only thing that we kept from that lot was a tiny day journal in a leather wallet, with daily entries written in blue ink for all but a handful of the days of 1873. While the diary contains very little of academic significance, it provides insight into the daily life of a twenty-two-year-old woman in western Massachusetts shortly after the end of the Civil War. But this was also a special year for Jennie Williams, who is engaged to be married in September.
This newsletter seems like the perfect place to publish Jennie Williams' memoir. It includes twelve installments, one for each month. Where appropriate and feasible, we've supplemented her text with pictures and background material. We've not attempted to correct the author's grammar or spelling, which is actually quite good and reflects an interesting local pattern of speech not unlike one we've observed in some of our older neighbors in Franklin County. We hope that you will enjoy it.
[The journal was a Christmas present to Jennie. Its dedication reads as follows.]
To
Jennie Williams
East Hampton
Mass
Dec 25 1872
January 1873
Wednesday 1. I received a letter from My darling George this noon and a paper. It has been a pleasant cold day and many are the wishes of a happy new year, I have had today. This book is a gift from Geo. I have written a letter to a friend.
Thursday 2. I received two letters from George tonight and have written him a long letter. It has been a cloudy day. Joe came this eve brought me a letter from Mother. O! It is so cold in our room. I wish I could see my own darling tonight.
Friday 3. Receive a box from Mother. George expressed it through to me, free. It has been a cloudy warm day. I did better today making buttons than I have any day before. I made sixteen gross. I do my washing tonight. I am very tired.
The Williston-Knight Button Company in Easthampton, probably where Jennie worked.
Saturday 4. It is a pleasant warm day. Nettie and I go to see Mrs. Chapin this eve, to see if we can board with her. We do not know for certain. I receive a letter from my darling George. I made thirteen gross of buttons today.
Sunday 5. Joe called while I was at breakfast. I keep a fire for Clara Fisk write a long letter to Mother. It is very rainy. Joe called again this eve to take some things to Mother. I write a letter to my darling George this eve. I would love to see him and kiss him.
Monday 6. I go to the Post Office this noon but do not receive a letter from George and I wonder why. I made eighteen gross of buttons today. It is very icy on the walks. Nettie and I go to the Office this eve but no letter.
Tuesday 7. This noon I received a letter from My darling George. he is well. and a letter from Mother and one from a friend. I want to see my George so much I should be happy if I could. Have kept a fire for Clara Fisk this eve.
Wednesday 8. It is a cloudy cold day and storms this eve. I made twenty gross of buttons today, sewed some this evening also, ironed. I rather expected a letter from George but was disappointed. but, I know he loves me just as well.
Thursday 9. I received a letter and a box from My own darling George. with a picture of himself when he was a boy. I am writing to him this evening. To day I commenced to work by the piece. Made twenty gross today. I am so lonely without George.
Friday 10. I have had a sick head ache all day. Tonight I received a letter from Mother wishing me to go home and I will if my darling George will go to.
Saturday 11. Am up early. Send a telegram to George and he answered it. Mr. Smith gave me leave to stay out. Go to the Office receive a letter from George. Go on the two o’clock train. George met me at the depot and we come home.
View of Greenfield (formerly the northern part of Deerfield), home of Jennie's family.
Sunday 12. It is a lovely day and my own darling George is with me. I’ve had such a pleasant talk with him. O! He is so kind and loveing I love him so dearly. I sleep with Mother. Celia is in a family way. is trying to be free from it.
Monday 13. Am up. George gets up soon after I do. I enjoy my visit with him ever so much. Nelson Knowlton called to see me a few moments. I have not seen him before, since six years ago last fourth July. George and I come to G [Greenfield] and I am here in EH [Easthampton] this eve. Geo. bought my ticket.
Tuesday 14. I have been so lonesome today. I miss my darling George so much. I shall be glad when I can live with him, which I hope to next Sept. I am very tired. I have written a letter to a friend this eve. Mother gave me a dollar yesterday.
Wednesday 15. I am lonely. yet I hope some time to be happy. Charley Burnham came to see us today. I wrote a short letter and sent it to George. I fear he will not be pleased to read it. I washed this eve. It is pay day. I received 53 cents.
Thursday 16. It is a gloomy day. As usual have been thinking about my darling George. I received a letter from George and Mother this eve. I have written one to George and I am so unhappy. I fear Geo. thinks I do not love him, his letter is so cool. but I do and shall as long as I live.
Friday 17. It is a warm day. I have been so lonely and troubled today that I could not help crying last night I cried myself to sleep O! if my darling George thinks I do not love him and he does not love me. I want to die.
Saturday 18. I received a letter from George this noon and I am happy for I know he loves me. My machine bothered me all day yesterday and most of today. I wish I could see George tonight for I love him. I am unwell.
Sunday 19. I am so weak that it makes me tired I have written a long letter to my darling George and one to Mother. Nettie attended Church all day. I have not. I wore my new print striped dress today and I like it. How I wish I could kiss George just once.
Monday 20. It is a little colder today. I went to the P. Office this noon and tonight I receive a letter from my George. I am feeling a little better today. George does not know for certain whether he will go to Chicago or not. O! I do hope he won’t.
Tuesday 21. I have been to the Office twice today and no letter from Mother. I was surprised today when Clara W. Phillips come to see us she went home this eve. She is expecting to be sick in about seven months. I am so tired tonight, I wish I was at home.
Wednesday 22. I got up about nine and went to the shop asked Smith to go home and he said. settled with Bly. I telegraphed to George but received no reply. I come home on the two o’clock train, hire a tram. George come home this evening.
Saturday 25. It is a pleasant day. I sit up some. Joe helped Mother some today. Eddie told a lie this morning. My darling George came this afternoon and I am so glad to see him.
February 1873
Saturday 1. I am at home and am better than I have been. Today I intended to meet a friend but sickness prevented. Abby left today. I ironed two white skirts. Receive a letter from Nettie. I rather expected my George to come home or a letter from him but did not either.
Sunday 2. It is a pleasant day. I have written a letter to My darling George and O! I am so lone some with out him. I would love to kiss. I wrote a letter to my room mate Nettie. It seems as tho I must see him before I sleep darling George.
Monday 3. It is one year ago yesterday that George presented me my ring, it not being large enough, I returned it, at his request and had another one instead.
Wednesday 5. It is a pleasant day. George and I are alone. We have a very pleasant visit. (Something happened in the afternoon that made it a little unpleasant.) George placed my ring upon my finger today. We retire at a quarter past eleven.
Thursday 6. George goes away about ten this forenoon. I hated to have his go away for I love him. He seemed quite pleasant. I staid with him some time when I called him this morning. Mother and Celia thought George was mad at me last night. O! my heart is sad tonight.Saturday 8. Nelson went to the P.O. and got a letter for me from my own darling George. How I wish he was here tonight. It seems as though I must see him before I sleep.
Postage stamp for a first-class letter in 1873.
Sunday 9. A pleasant day. Up at half past nine, comb Mother’s hair, wash and dress myself. Take tea at Aunt Caroline’s with Nelson S. Knowlton. Call to see Uncle Leuke a short. Father and Mother start for Mr. Blake’s, but met George.
Monday 10. I was so glad to see my own darling George last night. We retire about half past two. George and I start about two for Gfld. He bought my ticket to East Hampton. I am so lonely with out him tonight. I bid Nelson good by for five years.
Tuesday 11. I work all day and am very tired tonight. I received a Sewing Machine from George this noon. I have written to him this eve. I am so lonely without My George. As soon as I reached here last eve I learned of the small pox in this house.
Wednesday 12. I commence this morning to work on a twenty-two flat Machine. I received the Verses from Nelson tonight. Emma Burnham had a fit at the dinner table this noon. I wish I could see my own darling George tonight.
Thursday 13. It seem's like spring today. I have got an awful cold and cough. My lungs pain me very bad. I write to Mother this eve. Did not tell her of the Small pox. I am just about sick tonight but O! if I could see my darling George. Some time I will.
Friday 14. I went to the P.O. this noon and got a letter from My own darling George and I am so glad to hear from him. He is feeling badly for fear I will have the Small Pox. I have got a terrible cold and my lungs pain so bad, they never did before.
Saturday 15. I did not sleep much last night. I was very restless and coughed some. I worked although it did not seem as though I could. Sent for some cough medicine cost 26 cts. and a lamp wick. Am going to wash me in Miss Chapman’s room. I would love to see Geo.
Sunday 16. It is a stormy lonesome day. I write a long miserable letter to my darling George how I would love to see him as I did one week ago. I have written a letter to Nell Van. and Millie Stowe am very tired tonight. My throat is very sore and I am almost sick with my cold.
Monday 17. We could not get to the Shop this morning till half past seven. There was no path. I made twenty gross of buttons. Mrs. Loomis gave me some pork this noon. I heard the other day about Mrs. Wollcut running away. I sent George a letter but I do not receive one from him. I look to Jesus for comfort.
Tuesday 18. I went to the P. Office but no letter from my George neither from Mother. My cold is about the same a terrible cough. I wish I was at home with Mother and George.
Wednesday 19. It is a rainy forenoon and a pleasant afternoon. Ellen Webster was married today and left here on the two o’clock train. It is pay day. I ought to go up street but dare not with my cough. I received a letter from my own darling George. I love him.
A steam engine on the Boston and Maine Railroad.
Thursday 20. I receive a letter from Mother. It is a pleasant day. George W. Avery and Martha Hosley were married a week ago yesterday. I hope one day I can live with my George. Receive papers from George. Nett. and I go up street.
Friday 21. It is a very stormy day and very bad coming from the shop. I have written to George this eve and am a good mind not to send the letter. It is miserable, Darling George, and I love you as well as any one can. It is now after eleven and very cold.
Saturday 22. It is a pleasant day but the snow is drifted dreadfully. There is no path to the Shop, so I do not work. I clean up my room as usual wash my floor. Nettie goes home on the two o’clock train. I sew on my chemise sit with Agnes Don Allen.
Current view of railroad tracks looking north from Deerfield.
Sunday 23. It is a cold pleasant day. I sit in Agnes room most all day. Write a very long letter to Mother and a short letter to my darling George. I am so lonesome without Nettie. I wish I could see my precious George tonight I would love him. I hope he has written to me today.
Monday 24. I sent my letters today to Mother and George. Sent by Mr. Smith to P.O. but no letter. I am feeling a great deal better from my cold. We heard today that Len Moore his wife and baby went to the Pest house last Thursday and Mrs. Moore has told a lie about it.[Pest house: A hospital for patients affected with plague or other infectious disease. (American Heritage Dictionary)]
Tuesday 25. I went to the P. Office this noon with Ella L– I received a letter from my own darling George and one from Millie Stowe. I sit in Mary Powers room slept with Miss Chapman last night am going to tonight. I expected Nettie but she has not come. I wish I was at home.
Wednesday 26. I receive a letter from Mother this noon. I wash tonight do not hang out my clothes. Nettie has not come yet. O! how I would love to see my own George. I would kiss him. But I can pray for him tonight. I am very tired. wish I were at home.
Thursday 27. If my little sister Minnie was living she would be 14 years old today but God took her home safe within Jesus arms. I am writing a letter to George have written one to Millie. Receive a letter from Nettie. Slept with Ag. last night.
Friday 28. An other winter is past – how fast time flies. I received a letter from my own darling George this noon. I have done a large ironing this evening. Sewed some and had company a lady book agent. ‘Tis after eleven as I write. am tired.
March 1873
Saturday 1. My sister Celia is 18 years old today. One year ago she was not married. I worked till half past three come out washed and dresses myself and started for Westfield to visit Millie Stowe at half past five. I received a letter from Mother this noon.
Sunday 2. I am in Westfield at Mrs. Sexton’s. She has a son and daughter. Millie is boarding her at her Aunts. I am enjoying my visit here very much. Millie and Mary met me at the depot. I think they are nice people. I have to think of my George often. I’ve worn my ring a year today.
Monday 3. I am up about six. We have breakfast. I get ready to start. Millie goes part way to the depot with me. I bought some shoe lacing’s there. Nettie come today and Millie Van. She went right home on the half past eleven train. I work this afternoon. Write a letter to Mother this eve. Receive a letter from George.
Tuesday 4. It is a pleasant cold day. This eve I went up street with Nettie and selected the cloth for her sheets, both bleached and unbleached. We called upon Mrs. Chapin. Geo. Chapin has a son three weeks old today. No letter from Mother. My thoughts are far away.
Wednesday 5. One year ago today George came to visit me for the first time. I had seen him several times before. It is a cold pleasant day but not as cold as it was a year ago. I have measured off six pair of sheets for Nettie this eve and written a letter to George. I have got a headache.
View of the Connecticut River looking north from the Mt. Holyoke Range. Easthampton is to the left, Greenfield far to the north.
Thursday 6. It is a pleasant day but a very cold morning. I sent a letter to George by Ed Tilliston. Orpha Gorum went over to the depot with me. she keeps company with him. I received a letter from Mother. Sewed some this eve.
Friday 7. It seems like spring today. Mr. Smith is sick. I receive a letter from my own George and write to him this eve. I have written in Mary Murphy’s album this eve. Mr. Bly handed me the letter Mother sent him. I got me some lemons for my cold.
Saturday 8. I am so glad it is Saturday for I am so tired. Yet I get very tired cleaning up at night. Nettie went to the P. Office no letter for either of us. We sew some this eve and talk a great deal “of how much we enjoy being together” for sometime we may never see each other, for even an evening.
Sunday 9. It is a beautiful morning. I did the work and dusted all over the room. Nettie attended church this morn. Last night I dreamed my Mother was dead, and what a sad thought. I wrote a long letter to Mother. I am sad tonight.
Monday 10. It is a pleasant day and town meeting day is here. This eve I went to the P.O. received a letter from George and O! I am so glad to hear from him but one sentence in his letter makes me feel so sad. But God will arrange it all for the best. I called upon Ella Frary this eve.
Tuesday 11. Two years ago today at six o’clock P.M. my cousin Rosie L. Barrett Died -- It has been a very rainy day. I received a letter from Mother this eve and I write one to George dear one. I miss Rosie but I hope she is in Heaven.
Wednesday 12. I have decided to do my washing but at last it is done. I sent my letter to George by Moses. I wish I could see my own darling George tonight for I love him. I am going home in a short time and I may see him.
Samuel Williston, founder of Williston-Knight Button Company
Thursday 13. It is a lovely day it seems so much like spring. Mrs. Moore jawed Annie, Lizzie and me and some others this noon (on account of going to Mrs. C’s) but her talk was of the boiler. Nettie and I went to see Mrs. Chapin this eve. I was mad this noon.
Friday 14. I did not receive a letter from my darling George. Mr. and Mrs. Moore went away yesterday. There has been a great deal said about the boiler. I have had a sick head ache. It has been a beautiful day. My thoughts are of my loved one.
Saturday 15. I received a good letter from George and one from mother. She wants me to go home next week and I must. I have done my usual cleaning. Went to see Mrs. Hubbard about making a hair braid for me. She said it would cost a dollar. I am dreadful tired.
Sunday 16. The wind blows terribly today. Nettie and I attended Church this morning. I have written to Mother and to George, it is a miserable letter I have written him. But I am so tired. I wish I could be rested. I trust all with God.
Monday 17. It is quite a pleasant day. The wind blows some. The girls leave here today about twelve to go to Mrs. C--. I sent a letter to George and one to Mother today. I receive a splendid letter from my George this noon. I sew all this eve. Nettie took tea at Mrs. Knapp’s.
Tuesday 18. It is a cloudy day. I receive a letter from Mother. Ida Wells has a son a week old last Sunday. I go to see Mrs. Chapin this eve. Did not receive a decided answer in regard to board so call upon Mrs. Gilbert. I dislike to leave my room. I am so tired.
Wednesday 19. It is pay day. I do not receive much. Nettie and I have been up street this evening and bought us a light brown dress just alike. We bought it of Mr. Rust cost 50 cts per yard. I had 20 yards and Nettie 19. We went to Mrs. Gilbert’s. Had ice cream for tea.
Thursday 20. I have got a severe head ache. I did not receive a letter from Mother as I expected. Mrs. Moore spoke very pleasantly to me tonight. I cleaned my lamp this eve, been up street and looked over my things to take home. It storms.
Friday 21. It is some stormy. I work till night clean up and come out. Write to George. Mrs. Moore brought Ella, Jennie, and me our books. It is a private book. Nett and I go up street, get my hair braid. Go to Mrs. G’s look at our room. N. told Mrs. M. we are going and we are busy packing.Saturday 22. I arrived home safe. Father met me at the depot but had been about 40 miles, so Mother and Celia met me. Had Henry Purple’s team. I saw Charley B. I received a letter from George. O! I am so tired tonight. Nettie and I moved this morning.
Source: History of the Connecticut Valley, Massachusetts, 1879.
Sunday 23. It is a gloomy dull day. I write to George this eve. I am so lonesome without him. I cannot help crying. I spoke of it in George’s letter but ought not to, for he will feel badly. I am dreadful tired. I had to work hard yesterday. Mrs. Moore was very pleasant to me and apologized for talking to me as she did.
Monday 24. I sent for my trunk by Mr. Hale cost 25 cts and sent a letter to my George. I received a letter from George. Joe went to the office. We do not wash but go to the other house, feed the cow, call upon Mrs. Purple. Father works. I would love to see my own George.
Tuesday 25. We are up and commence our washing in good season. Had a large wash. Dr. Fisk came to see Aunt Caroline today. I’ve been to town. Father at work. I saw Morris last Saturday. I received a letter from Millie yesterday.
Wednesday 26. It is stormy weather yet. Our clothes not hung out. I iron and sew some. I receive a letter from George and write one to him tonight. Horace is here awhile this eve. I expect George home Saturday night. I am tired ‘tis eleven.
Thursday 27. I receive al letter today from Nettie. I went to the post office.
Friday 28. It is a pleasant day. We go down to Henry Purple’s. cleaned up stairs all only the clothes press. Sit up one bed stead. Am tired tonight. Celia is not well any of the time as she is in a family way.
Saturday 29. It is a cloudy morn and about ten it commenced to rain and rained all day. I hardly expected My darling George to come tonight, but he did and I am so glad he is here. We retired at a quarter of three o’clock. O! how I love my darling.
Sunday 30. It is somewhat pleasant weather, and my “own Darling George is with me. He said to me today, “I suppose this is the last day I shall ever spend in this house.” I write a short letter to Nettie. George and I talked over our affairs and retire at five minutes of twelve. My George is at home with me and this eve we talk about our future home or rather the one we are anticipating. We intend to live in Brattleboro and I wish to be married the 9th of next September at half past seven o'clock in the evening and also be married at home. And my own dear George is willing to do as I wish about it. He said it did not seem as though he could wait until next Sept, but we decided some time ago to be married in that month. May the Lord be with me, guide and direct me aright, and bless my darling George.
Monday 31. It is a stormy morning and a pleasant afternoon. Father carried George to Greenfield. How I hated to have my George go. Mother and I move, fill the chambers, and we wash this afternoon. Eddie and I have come down to our old home to stay tonight.
April 1873
Tuesday 1. I April fooled Father this morning. Eddie and I enjoyed staying here last night but he did not come down with me tonight. Mother came part way with me. It has been a beautiful day. We have not moved any. Mr. Miller came with his stove.
Wednesday 2. It is a rainy day. Mother and I go down to our house and cleaned the pantry. I received a letter from my darling George. O! I am so tired tonight. Henry Purple carried us home.
Thursday 3. O it is a cloudy day and lone some. Father goes after Auntie this forenoon. Mother papers the pantry. She is dreadfully tired and so am I but I must write to my darling George. “Dead but not forgotten.” Henry came out and stayed with me a few minutes this eve. It is a fast day.
Friday 4. It is a pleasant day. Mother and I move our things to our house. Joe went to Turners Falls and got some money of Mr. Woods. We all stay here only Father. Henry came out to hear Joe and me play. It seems like home here tonight. I drove the horse and Father sit in the house and read the news paper.
Saturday 5. It is a gloomy rainy day. Henry Purple moves his goods and his folks. They leave about three o’clock. F. [father?] carried Aunt H. to G. [Greenfield?]. Horace took the cattle and brought down two loads. Father came tonight saw Joe. Talked with him and Joe took his hat and left. Receive a letter from "G".
Sunday 6. It is a cloudy. Mother goes to the other house and as soon as she got out of hearing Father commenced to talk to me “while he had a chance.” The first thing he said was if I ever came near his house again he would kick my ass so high the crows would build nests in it and told me never to darken his doors again.
Monday 7. It is a rainy day. We wash our white clothes. Father works at the Falls. Joe goes to East Hampton. Mother and I go to the other house and get a load of goods. Horace came and drove the cattle after dark. Mr. Miller moved into the house today.
Tuesday 8. Mother cleaned the cupboard. We get the dishes into it. We work hard all day. Mother is very sick tonight. I do not retire until late and am so tired. I received a letter from My Own Darling George and am so glad. O! how I would love to see him.
Wednesday 9. A wet unpleasant day. Mother a little better. Father scolds as ever but this eve he spoke to me about he and Mother’s coming to see me when I am married. I hope that five months from today I can call my George my husband.
Thursday 10. It is a pleasant day. I iron today. Mother is about the same. Mr. Lamb called to see the Melodeon. Father goes to the Falls. I go to the Office. No letter from George dear boy. I have written to him this eve, and I am so lonely without him. There is a man staying in our barn.
Friday 11. It is a pleasant morning. I sent a letter to my darling George. What a pretty name George is. I always liked it. I baked this afternoon. Father gone all day. Joe has not returned yet. We think it is strange. I received a letter from N.S.H. this eve.
Saturday 12. The wind has blown terribly all day. Joe came last night about twelve. Father gone. I scower the sitting room floor. Morris W. here all day. At night I go to Aunt H’s. Horace goes to the office. Got me a letter from my George.
Sunday 13. It is a lonely day for me, for my precious one is not with me. Heavenly Father bless him, I pray thee. Some day my darling George I hope to be with you. I have written to George today and to Millie Stowe.
Monday 14. I received a letter from my darling George. We wash. I sent my letters by Uncle Luke. Father goes to B-n (Bernardston?) and Greenfield. Joe does some plastering to Mr. Miller’s. I cleaned up the yard some. At night or this eve am taken unwell.
Tuesday 15. It is a pleasant day. F. and Joe go to work. Father paid Joe and took the board money. Celia and I go to the office. I received a letter from Nettie, and saying Winn. will wait a year before being married. We call at Mr. Henry Purple’s. Horace came home with me.
Wednesday 16. It is a pleasant day. Lizzie Clark, Meff Johnson, And Fronie Wyart have been here today. I put up the curtains in the front room today. Starch my skirts. Made doughnuts. I have felt sick all day as I did last night. O! my darling.
Thursday 17. It is an unpleasant day. We have several callers. Cele and Eddie go to Mr. Clap‘s. I ironed two skirts and bathed me. Served some. And this evening have written a poor letter to my darling George. Horace Barrett called a few minutes.
Friday 18 It is a cloudy day – some showers. I sent my letter to George by Mr. Conant. I do my washing so to not have to wash much in East Hampton. I am feeling bad tonight. I have been thinking of Christopher and wonder if George loves me as well as C. did. I think he does. And when ever I think of such things Rosie comes so near to me, and seems to tell me that my darling George loves me better than all the world besides.
Saturday 19. It is quite a pleasant day. I have swept my room and put it in order to leave while I am gone. I do my ironing. I have got a severe head ache. I went to the P.O. receive a letter from my George. O! I am so lonely without him. I will be happy when the time comes that I can be with him every Saturday night.
Sunday 20. It is a beautiful day. I get up at ten o’clock. Horace is here this forenoon. I do not feel well from swinging. I have written George a long letter and have spoken to him in regard to his work. I am so lonely without him. He does not know how lonely I am.
Monday 21. It is a pleasant day. I come to Greenfield with Uncle Roswell. Purple staid at Mrs. Burnham’s till train time, then I come to East Hampton. Nettie met me at the depot. I am so tired and dreadful headache. Josie Hill is dead. She was a southern girl.
Tuesday 22. A cloudy day. I work but not very fast. My head ached all last night and I feel sick. I have written to my George this eve, did not receive a letter from him. Celia came tonight and my trunk. I like boarding at Mrs. Gilbert’s quite well. O! my darling George.
Wednesday 23. It is a pleasant day. Celia visited with Nettie this forenoon. Nettie goes home at two o’clock. Cele visited with Agnes this afternoon and C. and I spent this eve at Nell Hall’s. I received a letter this noon from my precious George. O! how I love him.
Thursday 24. It is a lovely day. Celia went over to Joe’s brother’s this forenoon (Benjamin Le Fitre) and got a picture. This p.m. she visited Nellie Sullivan and Mary Ball. Called upon Mrs. Chapin. She was gone. This eve C. and I called upon Nora McCann, Clara Fisk, Mary Connable and Mrs. Chapin.
Friday 25. It is a pleasant day. Celia goes this morning on the 8 o’clock train. I staid out of the shop till she went. Mrs. Gilbert wished to have M. Wells room with me a while. She is from Vermont. I am somewhat lonely but am writing to my darling George.
Saturday 26. It is a cloudy day. I received a letter and paper from my George and I was so glad. I would love to see him. O! so dearly. Jennie Walker is very sick. I am so lonely tonight. I went to spend a little while with Nell Hall.
Sunday 27. It is a pleasant day but rather cool. I attended Church this morning and le=listened to an excellent sermon. Mr. Dyer is a nice man. I have written to N.H. I called over to see Nellie Sullivan. Spend the evening with Viola Cleaveland.
Monday 28. My little brother Eddie is 8 years old today. It does not seem as tho he is. It is a pleasant day. I received a letter from my darling George. One from Mother and one from Nettie. I have got a bad cold and am tired.
Tuesday 29. It is a cloudy day. I do not feel like work today. I have made a gross of buttons to take home. Emma Clap and I wash this eve. Jennie Walker some better. I expect to get up at two o’clock. O! how much I would give to see my George.
Wednesday 30. [No entry]
Engravings in April entries are from John Barber's Historical Collections, Massachusetts, 1839.
May 1873
hursday 1. It is a beautiful day and it is the day I would like to have had for my Wedding day. Of all the days in my life this is the prettiest to be married on. I move into room No. 3 with Jennie Walker. I spent the evening with Mrs. Orpha Tileston and Nell Sullivan.
Friday 2. It is a very unpleasant day. I received a letter from my own darling George this noon and have written to him this eve. Jennie got up this noon and I made the bed. I have ironed this eve and am dreadful tired. I had an introduction to James Walker yesterday.
Saturday 3. It is a rainy day. O! how I wish I could see my George. Jennie’s oldest brother came today. This afternoon James Walker came into the shop to see me make buttons. I had a nice visit with him. I think he is a nice man. He gave me a compliment.
Sunday 4. It is a beautiful day. Jennie sits up all day. James attended Church this morning. He is very pleasant and we enjoy his visit. Ellen Rudd in our room a great deal as usual. I have written to Mother and Nett. I would love to see my George tonight.
Monday 5. It is a beautiful day. James T. Walker started for N.Y. this morning. I bid him good by and told him I never expected to see him again. He said he hoped to. I never shall forget. A stitch in time saves nine. I received a letter from my own George this noon. I go up street this eve.
Tuesday 6. An other lovely day. I have got a headache. I have written a long letter to my beloved George. Jennie is improving slowly. I wish I could see my George but O! I must wait. I wonder if he loves me as well as I love him.
Wednesday 7. It is a lovely day. I receive a letter from Mother and Millie Stowe. O! how I would love to see my own darling George. I have spent this evening with Nellie Sullivan. Jennie is some better. I am tired. Mary Ball is here today.
Thursday 8. It is a pleasant day. I spent this evening with Nellie Hall. We had quite a pleasant time. We had a coconut, ever to be remembered. This a.m. I had an introduction to Eva Ward, a girl from Brattleboro Vt. She is quite a pretty girl.
Friday 9. It is a rainy day. Jennie did the work today. I have a severe headache. I received a letter from my own darling George and have written a poor letter to him tonight. Mary Clark came over this eve to learn me to do up my hair. O! I am so tired.
Saturday 10. It is a rainy lonesome day. I received a letter from my George and some papers by express. His Aunt Lucy is married. Eva Ward and I went up street tonight. I told Mrs. Gilbert this noon I was on my notice. She was sorry. Said she wished I would stay. I washed our floor tonight.
Sunday 11. It is a rainy day. I have got an awful headache. I don’t see what makes me have a head ache all the time. I have written to Millie S. and Mrs. E. P. Baldwin. I am so sick. I wish I could see my own dear George. I love him so well. Darling one.
Monday 12. I received a letter from my darling George. I visited with Jennie this eve. We both are sewing. She gave an excellent invitation for me and my George to visit her in N. York. Sent to Conn. to a Mrs. Baldwin for a pack of address cards.
Tuesday 13. It is a pleasant day. I came out and washed this eve. I am dreadful tired. Jennie sewing. I took her Autograph Album to the shop for Mr. Bly and Hill to write in. No letter from Mother. Clara Fisk called this eve.
Wednesday 14. It is a lovely day and the last day for Jennie to be with me. We have a great many callers this eve. I wrote in Jennie’s Album. Went up street with Eva Ward, received a letter and my cards from Mrs. Baldwin. I am so tired. Dear George.
Thursday 15. It is a pleasant day. I am up before five, help Jennie get ready and see her off on the train. Yesterday I received some papers from my George and a letter from Nettie, but I have no letter from home. Have spent part of the eve with Eva and have written to Mother. I am awful tired.
Friday 16. It is a cloudy day. I came out to iron. I did not receive a letter from my own George. This eve I have written to my George and Nettie. I have written a poor letter to George but I am so lonely without him that I have to cry.
Saturday 17. It is a cloudy day. I received a book and paper from my George. Mr. Smith has been fishing all day. I do my usual cleaning up tonight. Eva L. Ward and I have been up street this eve. I am lonely without a few words from my darling.
Sunday 18. It is a lovely day. I have written a short letter to Mrs. Baldwin and sent it with Flossie. I have been very tired so have been sleeping today. Eva and Mary Wells called this morn. When Eva says she will cut me out, it is in fun but it makes me sad.
Monday 19. It is a pleasant day. Nettie come tonight. I am glad to see her. We called to Mrs. Chapin’s, and saw the girls. I came out at half past four and met Nettie at the train. I received a letter from Mother and one from George. He thinks he will come here next Monday.
Tuesday 20. It is a beautiful day. I am so glad Nettie is back again. I received a paper from Geo. And a letter from Mother. This eve Nettie and I went up town. I have written to Mother. I hate to leave the girls I know I shall be so lonesome without them, yet I must go, for better or worse.
Wednesday 21. It is a cloudy day and so lonesome. It has rained this eve. It is pay day. Nettie, Annie and I went over to the office together. I did their writing for them. Nettie and I have been up street this eve. I have written a short note to Ella Leonard. No letter from Jennie as I expected.
Thursday 22. It is a cloudy day. I received two papers from George. This evening I have directed 33 envelopes for Nettie. I am tired for my head feels so tired and bad all the time. How fast time is passing. Nettie expects to be married next spring about a year from now.
Friday 23. It is a cloudy day. I have written a letter to George this evening – also Nettie has read me a story. A man been here this p.m. to sell the pictures of our shop – the button shop. I am tired and lonely tonight. I wish that I never had been born.
Saturday 24. It is a beautiful day. I worked 'til five o’clock. After supper went up to Nell’s and gathered greens. Nett been to the office and got me a letter from my own George. I do not quite understand the contents of the letter, but think he wants me to meet him at Mt. Tom next Monday.
Sunday 25. It is a lovely day. Nettie and I am up and dressed for Church. We attend both forenoon and afternoon services. I took supper at Nellie Hall’s. Nettie and I go down to the cemetery. Attend church this evening and I am so tired with a severe headache. I suppose that today I have heard the last sermon preached here (in E.H.) that I ever shall by Mr. S.O. Dyer. The text for this a.m. was the 19th chapter of St. Luke, the 41st and 42nd verses. This p.m. the text was “There is no night in Heaven.”
Monday 26. It is a lovely day, rather warm. I did not work today, for I expected my George and he came. I met him at Mt. Tom. We visited at the hotel. I was not hungry so did not go to dinner and I know Geo. felt bad because I did not. I am sorry now. I went over to Mt. Tom with him. My own darling George came here to East Hampton to visit me. I enjoyed the visit but I am lonesome and sad tonight, thinking that George did not enjoy the visit. I received a letter from Mother with ten dollars. I answered it this eve.
Tuesday 27. Another pleasant day. I miss my George so much, for O! how I love him, (yet I kinder dread being married). He told me yesterday it was well for me (or ill) that he did not see Celia before he did me. Does he love me? I have washed this eve and am tired.
Wednesday 28. It has been a very warm day. George and I have been engaged to be married just six months this eve. I received a letter from Geo. today and one from Jennie Walker. This eve called upon Mrs. Chapin and girls – also Nellie Hall. Paid Rust $5.00 and Mrs. Mansfield $5.00.
Thursday 29. It is a pleasant day. I have worked all day and it is my last day’s work in the Button Shop. Every one says I am going to be married. This eve I went up to Nell Hall’s a few minutes, then went and spent the evening with Orpha Tillson. I had a very pleasant visit. Am some tired.
Friday 30. It is Decoration Day. There is considerable going on in town. We do not work in the shop. It is quite a pleasant day. I have been packing my things today and I am so tired. I have written a poor letter to George dear one and this is my last night in East Hampton. Dear old place. I’ll never forget you. I cryed this eve, thinking of the past and the future.
Saturday 31. I am up this morning at the usual time. It is a beautiful day. I settle about nine o’clock. Go into the shop and see the girls. Went up street and had two pictures taken. Nettie and Maria Buck came to the depot and saw off. When I bought my ticket Mr. Goodnough said to give his love to Eben.
I left East Hampton in all its beauty. O! how I hated to leave the girls. I started on the 20 minutes past one train. They all seemed to hate to have me come away. I sent some things by express. At Mt. Tom Gib. Parsons treated me to apples and peanuts. I had to change cars at Northampton, waited there about an hour, so went up to see Mary Prouty a few minutes, had a pleasant chat. Saw Mina Wood at the depot. Mr. Deane met me at Greenfield. I am dreadful tired tonight. I got my valise for Mr. D. to put in the wagon, but it is gone now. I presume it was stole. O! I am so lonely tonight.
June 1873
Sunday 1. It is a pleasant day. I am so tired and I can’t help but worry about my valise that is lost. I am so glad to see Mother, but I am lonely here. Where shall rest be found? I have written a short note to Nettie to send in her valise. O! how I miss her, but for my George I will give up all.
Monday 2. It is a warm pleasant day. I am up at six o’clock. Feel tired all day. Mother does the washing. Mr. G. came this morn and hung the door. I went to Mrs. Stearns this morn. This p.m. went to the P.O. receive a short letter from George. Am tired tonight.
Tuesday 3. It is a cloudy unpleasant day. Mother and I go to Turner’s Falls. Take the train and go to Greenfield. I found my valise. The baggage master found it and kept it. I carried Nettie’s reticule and gave it to Charlie. Met a new drummer. I received just a line from my darling George. I am so sad.
Wednesday 4. It is a cloudy day and warm. G. Wyart sent for Mother. She goes and helps them all day. Joseph commences the chimney in the upright part of the house. I wash floors, get dinner, then iron till five o’clock, get ready and go to the Office but no letter from my George and why does he keep me waiting?
Thursday 5. It is a pleasant warm day. I gather greens for dinner. Joe at work on the chimney though baby here yet. I go to the Office this afternoon, receive a short letter from my George and write to him tonight after the work is done. I am going to have a white kittie from Mr. Conant’s.
Friday 6. It is a pleasant warm day. Mother washed this a.m. and this afternoon washed the front room floor. Mr. Martin and Blake called a few minutes, also Geo. and Ellen and an Agent. Baby is better tonight. I sent a letter to my own darling George this morn.
Saturday 7. It is a pleasant day. I lie down this a.m. I feel so sick. Dr. Fisk came to leave Celia some medicine. He asked me when I was going to be married. I received short letter from my George. He has not received my letter I sent yesterday. I don’t see why he don’t write me a long letter.
Sunday 8. It is a beautiful day. I have wished all day that George was here. I have written him a long letter and sent him some pink Honey Suckle’s. I have written a letter to Jennie Walker. I had a hard time washing myself today. George and Ellen been down to see baby.
Monday 9. It is a pleasant day. Mother washes. I go to the Post Office. Receive a letter from my own darling George and O! how glad I am to hear from him. I got my little white kittie at Mr. Conant’s tonight and I have named it Velvet Snow. I sent my letters by Father and he sent them.
Tuesday 10. A pleasant day. Mother goes to Mrs. Stearns this morning. I wrote a line to W. F. Root in regard to my wedding dress and sent it by Mr. Deane. I forgot to send the sample for the shade of blue that I want, so had to write an other line and carried it to the office tonight. I received a letter from Nettie and Eva.
Wednesday 11. It is a pleasant day. I iron some. Joe at home. O! if I could only see my darling George. I love him so much no one knows how well I love him.
Thursday 12. It is a pleasant day. Joe puts up the rest of the chimney, so it is finished now. I iron some, go to the post office, receive a letter from W. F. Root saying he received the line but no sample. I have written a letter to my George. It is a miserable letter, but O! I am so tired.
Friday 13. It is a pleasant day. I have had a sick head-ache all day. Went to bed this forenoon. Geo. Wyart and Clesson Blake shingled one side of our house today. This afternoon Morris Williams and his mother come. I do not love him. I sent my letter by Father this morn. He forgot it so I sent it by Morris. I hope it will go.
Saturday 14. It has been a pleasant day. I wish I knew whether George has received my letter or not. Mother carried baby (Birdie) home this forenoon and has been gone all day. I washed all the floors up stairs and down. Father goes to the Office tonight and gets me a letter from my own darling.
Sunday 15. It is a pleasant day. Last eve I understood Father to say he did not get me a letter so I did not have it to read till this morn. Today I have written to Nettie Burnham, Orpha Tillson, Nellie Sullivan, and Nell Hall and I am so tired. Celia and I go up to see Birdie a few minutes.
Monday 16. It is a pleasant day, a little shower towards night. Mr. O. F. Hale borrowed my umbrella. Abbie Clapp called a few minutes. I went to the P. Office, received a short letter from George. I do not see why he does not write me longer letters. I trust in God. Without a Savior I would not wish to live.
Tuesday 17. It is a pleasant day. I get up this morn about eight o’clock. Mother and Celia gone to Mr. Miller’s, get home about noon. I do up a few chores and iron nearly the rest of the day. Go up to George’s this eve and carry baby’s things home. Today my thoughts have been of my George.
Wednesday 18. It is a pleasant day. This morning I cleaned up the back dooryard and the shed. I lie down awhile then sew on my shirt waist. This p.m. a gentleman called and asked me if my husband was at home. He wanted a glass of cider. An other gentleman called for a few matches. The fish man called.
Thursday 19. It is a cloudy warm day. I iron my white skirts, finish my shirt waist. Father and Joe get through work at the Falls this noon. Tonight Mother and I go to town. M. got bleached cotton for me. I did not receive a letter from my darling George, but have written one to him tonight. Am tired.
Friday 20. It is a cloudy warm day. It is very windy this p.m. Joe goes to Mr. Miller’s this afternoon and Father goes to Greenfield Street. I sent my letter to George by him. Father has engaged blinds for his house. O! how I wish I could see my own darling George.
Saturday 21. It is a pleasant day. Joe goes to Mr. Miller’s. Father goes to Shelburne Falls to the reunion of the old 10th Regt. Mr. Gilman and son here at work on the house. Uncle Sam Connable called, said he had seen my George. I went to the Office and got a letter from my George. The old rooster killed C’s kittie.
Sunday 22. It is a warm day. I get up at ten o’clock. Have written a letter to my own darling George. I wish he was at home today. The rooster went for little Velvet this morning. Last evening I took tea at Uncle Luke M. Hosley’s. Charles Hosley is very sick.
Monday 23. It is a pleasant warm day. Mother does the washing over the hill. We have a large wash. Father goes to Greenfield. I sent my letter to George by F. He forgot to leave it. Joe goes to Grandpa Knowlton’s to work. I go to the office and receive a letter from my own darling George.
Tuesday 24. It is a beautiful day. C. and I go to Geo. Wyart’s for rubarb to make pies if Mother does the baking. I go to the Office expecting a letter from Nett but did not receive one. How I would love to see my own George tonight.
Wednesday 25. It is a pleasant hot day. Father and Mother go to Gfd. this forenoon. Mother went to see Mr. Root but he was not there. I iron some. Father goes to town and got me a letter from Orpha Tillson. Father bought some crackers of Mr. Hosmer. Mother bought some lobster of the fish man.
Thursday 26. It is a pleasant warm day. I iron this forenoon. Go to the Office get a letter for Celia from M. L. Williams saying A. E. Gilligan and wife have been there. I have hired and paid Mr. Hale to take my letters to Gfld. for me. Mrs. Stearns here. Joe goes to work at the Falls. I have written a letter to George tonight.
Friday 27. It is a pleasant hot day. I am up with the expectation of sending my letter to George by Mr. Hale but Mr. Deane went for him. I went to the Falls and carried my letter and I am dreadful tired. I sew a little. I should love to see my darling one but must wait patiently.
Saturday 28. It is a very warm day. I sweep my room and fix my window. Aunt Sarah and Frankie here this forenoon. Father has drove Nellie to Greenfield, to Gill and then to the Falls. I go to the Office receive a letter from George. It rained very hard this eve. I go wet and it rained into the night.
Sunday 29. It is a hot day. This afternoon we had a shower. I am up about nine o’clock. Have written to Eva Ward and a very poor letter to my own George. But O! it is such hard work to write.
Monday 30. It is a rainy forenoon and a pleasant afternoon. Mother and I get up at four o’clock to wash. We do our washing over the hill. M. and I lie down and sleep this p.m. I go to the Office. I received a splendid letter from George. I returned the Conant girl’s waterproof.
July 1873
Tuesday 1. It is a rainy day but quite a pleasant evening. I have been sewing nearly all day. Have been fixing over my poplin dress skirt. Mother and I go to Mrs. Stearns, get some butter. Mrs. F. Wyart broke her hip last Saturday. Father sold his old cart today for 20 dollars.
Wednesday 2. It is a warm pleasant day. I do most of the ironing. The man from the Falls brought us some wood. A tin peddler called with his friend and wished for a dinner. Mother got me some teaspoons. An agent called. The fish man was here. Nellie Blake came over, brought us some straw-berries.
Thursday 3. It is a very warm, pleasant day. We had a shower this p.m. I iron a few things this morn, lie down about noon and sewed some this afternoon. I started to go to the office , although the mail had not gone up. Today found a letter from Nellie at the other house, so did not go farther. Got Mother’s slippers at Mr. Miller’s.
Friday 4. It is a warm pleasant day untill afternoon, we have two showers. I am at home all day. I have a hard head ache, lie down awhile. Father and Joe got Edwin some fire crackers. I have written a letter to my own George and I would love to see him. I have felt so sick all day.
Saturday 5. It is a warm pleasant day. Father goes to Gfld and got the blinds and Mr. Phillips hung them this afternoon. Orrin came up and staid a short time. Mrs. Arms came staid all the afternoon. I am feeling almost sick abed. I went to the office, received a short letter from my George.
Sunday 6. It is a pleasant cool day. Before I was up, Uncle George Wilcutt of Northampton came. Orrin came and staid a short time. I bathe me, comb hair and dress, have supper. Then Orrin started for G[reenfield] and I go to Mr. Stoughton’s to see Aunt Wilcott. Mother, Joe, Celia, and Eddie come to meet me. I am so lonely without my darling George.
Monday 7. It is a chilly morning and a beautiful day. We do our washing at the house and a large washing. Joe at work at the Falls. I have been to the office, received a letter from George and O! how I would love to see him, but I must wait. I am very tired. It is after ten as I retire.
Tuesday 8. It is a pleasant morning but a rainy afternoon. Joe has gone to Greenfield to work. I do about half of the ironing. For a wonder no one has been here today. I went to the office tonight, no letter from any of the girls. I called at Uncle Luke’s. He and Frankie came a little way’s home with me.
Wednesday 9. It is a pleasant warm day. I iron some. Father goes to the Falls. Mother and Celia go to Mr. Miller’s. Mother and I go to the Falls, put letters in the Office, stay to Mrs. Stearn’s to tea, saw the fish peddler. A friend of Father’s, Mr. Hutchens, is there this evening. He works at Mr. Clapp’s.
Thursday 10. It is a pleasant day, a shower this afternoon. I sew on my fine sheets, bleached cotton. I commenced them this morning. I get supper. F[ather] and Eddie go to town and E[ddie]. goes to the office, I received a letter from Jennie W. this morn and I write a letter to George.
Friday 11. It is a cloudy day and rainy this a.m. Get work done then Celia and I go down the Barton Road for berries to make pies of. Frankie H. here this morn. This p.m. Mrs. Stearns and Emma Phillips are here, I had a splendid visit with Emma. O! how I wish I could see George.
Saturday 12. It is a pleasant day. Mother bakes this forenoon and about noon Uncle Luke came after M[other] for Frankie is sick. I go to the office and do not receive a letter from my own George. O! how I wish I could see him. I love him. O! so well. I wish he would come home.
Sunday 13. It is a pleasant cool day. Mother came from Uncle L’s this morn. I get morning work done, then write a letter to my George. I am awful lonesome without him today. And I could not help crying. Joe and Celia go to Uncle Luke’s this evening. O! my darling George.
Monday 14. It is a pleasant hot day. Joe goes to Greenfield with Mr. Hale. Father, Mother, and Celia go to G[reenfield]. Mother goes to Mr. W. F. Root’s to see about my wedding dress and sack. I do the washing, at night go to the office and I receive a letter from my own George and O! I am so happy.
Tuesday 15. It is some cloudy but a very hot sultry day. Father goes to G[reenfield]. Mother and Cele cut out my chemise, night dresses, and drawers today. I am to have two night dresses, three chemise, and two pair of drawers and a pair of sheets out of my fine cloth. Mother and Celia go to Mrs. Stearns.
Wednesday 16. It is a pleasant cool day. Mother and I iron this morn. Geo. Wyart and Eddie Bowman called for water. I sew a little this afternoon. Velvet is very sick all day, does not eat any thing. Our fish man came tonight and an other fish man called. Mother is sick tonight.
Thursday 17. It is a rainy damp day. I sew some. This forenoon Mother goes up to help Ellen Wyart, staid all the afternoon, then Celia goes up. I have made bread and it is good, have sewed some, and this eve I have written to my darling George. I receive a letter from Nell Hall.
Friday 18. It is a very rainy damp day. Mother and Celia came home this morning. I am up. My letter is ready to go. I get ready and go to River side with my letter for George and one for Joe. I hired a box, No. 27. Mother goes through the straits with me. M[other] and Celia go to Uncle Luke’s and M[other] to town.
Saturday 19. It is a rainy damp day. We bake some this a.m. Eddie Bowman is here. M[other] goes to Mrs. Stearns for butter. I get supper, go to the store and office. Got a letter for [Mother] from my George. He thinks of coming home tomorrow. I got my trimmings for my under clothes tonight. O! what a good mother I have got.
Sunday 20. It is a beautiful day and my darling George came home this morning. O! how glad I am to see him. I was bathing when he came. We go to Minnie’s grave, over to the grove and to meet M[other] coming from Mrs. Stearns. We retired at a quarter of eleven.
Monday 21. It is a pleasant dy. Father carried George to Gfld. I hated to have him go. I am so lone some all day without him. We wash. Joe and Cele go to Mrs. Stearns. I love my own, my darling George. I ought to have written to the girls yesterday, but could not. O! I am so lonely.
Tuesday 22. It is a pleasant day. I sew some and Mother sews on the sewing machine for me. Joe goes to the Falls to work. Mother and Celia go to town. I receive a letter from Eva Ward. I am awful lonesome without George and tonight I have had to cry and have written to him.
Wednesday 23. It is a pleasant day. I am up late. I send my letter to George by Henry Hayden. Paid him five cents. Aunt Melinda H. was with him. I iron this forenoon, and this afternoon I visit Emma Phillips. Clesson was there. I had a pleasant visit. I am awful tired tonight. O! my darling George.
Thursday 24. It is a pleasant say. I sew some today, and Mother sews some for me. We have some company. Uncle Sam was here. Aunt Sarah. Mother borrows a little oil at Uncle Luke’s. I have written to my George this evening and I am very tired.
Friday 25. It is a pleasant warm day. I go into the huckleberry lot. Not many this week. Mother has been to the circus with Uncle L[uke] and Aunt Sarah. Frankie staid here. I visited school this afternoon, it is the last day. I went to the Falls and receive a letter from George. Called to see Ella W.
Saturday 26. It is a warm pleasant day. At evening we have showers. Mother and Celia go to Uncle Luke’s and Eddie. I get cleaned up, sit down to sew, and Morris Williams comes. Nothing, but I must go to ride with him, so we went to Gfld. I told him I expect to be married.
Sunday 27. It is a cloudy rainy day. I am up late, as well as the rest. Have breakfast, go over the hill and wash me, then commence to write. Have written to Nettie, Orpha, and George, and O! I am so tired. Father got a new barrel of flour yesterday at Mr. Hale’s. I would love to see my George.
Monday 28. It is a cloudy hot day. I help wash. Send my three letters by Mr. Hale. I went to the Falls office but did not receive a letter from my darling George, and I am always so lonely when I don’t get a letter from George. Celia received a letter from Libb.
Tuesday 29. It is a cloudy hot day. I help about the work as usual. I sew some and Mother sews some for me. It rained some this afternoon. Mother and Celia been to George’s. Joe went away yesterday forenoon. Is not at home yet. I would love dearly to see my George tonight. God bless him.
Wednesday 30. It is a pleasant hot day. I iron some this morn, then Eddie and I picked huckleberrys the rest of the forenoon. Father and M[other] go to the Falls. Mrs. Stearns brings the butter. The fish man called. Ellen sends for Mother. She goes up and brings back the baby to take care of. Uncle L[uke] and Aunt Sarah called this eve.
Thursday 31. It is a pleasant warm day. I have a terrible headache. The baby is very good. I sew a little this forenoon. Just before dinner Mr. Geo. Drue, our tin peddler called. M[other] bought me a butter knife and spoon. I went to the office tonight and I passed Mr. Drue. I did not get a letter from my George.
August 1873
Friday 1. It is a pleasant warm day. We have a hard shower about five o’clock. I intended to go to the office but it rained so I could not. I wrote to my own George last night, have not mailed the letter. I am so lonesome tonight not hearing from George but perhaps he does not love me.
Saturday 2. It is a pleasant hot day. I am up at five o’clock, go to the office. I do not get a letter from George, but I send one to him. Our heifer had a little bossie this morn. May Wyart here all day. Joe came home last night about eleven o’clock. F. and Mother go to Riverside tonight and got me a letter from George. I received a letter from Millie Stowe tonight.
Sunday 3. It is a very warm day. It is pleasant till after noon some rain. Our spring is full. I help about the work this morn, then wash me. Then write to Nellie and Jennie and a line to Morris. Then I write to my darling George. O! how I wish I could see him. Ellen Wyart here this morn. O! I am tired.
Monday 4. It is a pleasant warm day but a very cool evening. We have a large washing. Joe goes to the Falls. Mr. Dean goes to Gfld. for Mr. Hale, so I do not send my letters. I received a letter from George by express. Mr. D. brought it. I went to Riverside, mailed my letters, got 51 cents worth of postage stamps.
Tuesday 5. It is a pleasant cool day. We have chilly nights. Edwin and I go after huckleberrys. I [use] them for pies and this afternoon about four I gathered some more huckleberrys for myself, to can. Five weeks from this evening, I expect to become the wife of George C. Bardwell. I wish I could see my darling.
Wednesday 6. It is a pleasant warm day. Ellen came down here twice this morn for the baby. George came this noon. I work over my butter this morn and look over my huckleberrys. Tonight go to Gill. Sold my butter and got sugar. I got lineing and faceing for my brown dress or suit. O! if I could see my own George. Mother is very poorly today.
Thursday 7. It is a cloudy pleasant and rainy day. I go to Riverside. Get there at eight o’clock this morn. Ella Wyart cut my brown suit – cost $1.65. Mother and I can my huckleberrys. Ellen Blake called. I am awful tired. I have written a miserable letter to George.
Friday 8. It is a pleasant warm day. I do up morning work then go after huckleberrys with Eddie. F. and Mother go to Greenfield. Mother mailed my letter to George. Ellen and Abby call this eve. Birdie baby cryed most all night last night. I slept a little while this afternoon.
Saturday 9. It is a pleasant day. George came down and took the cradle. Mother carried Birdie home. I received a letter and some samples of house paper last night from my own George. Uncle Luke brought the cloth for my Wedding dress today. It was bought at Jordan Marsh, Boston, Mass. Mother and I go to Mr. Hale’s store tonight.
Sunday 10. It is a pleasant day. We are up late. I slept with Mother. I went over the hill washed Eddie then myself. I have written to my darling George. I wish I could see him today. My wedding dress is blue silk poplin.
Monday 11. It is a pleasant day. Mother does the washing and goes to Mrs. Stearns. I go to the office tonight and receive a letter from my own darling George. Also received a letter from Nettie. Mother bakes tonight. I sit up with her, and she has told me how Joe thinks it is a terrible thing for her to do anything for me.
Tuesday 12. It is a pleasant comfortable day. I am up and iron all the forenoon. Fronie W. and Carrie Bowman came down with some rye flour. Father went after my trunks from George. He got them but no keys. I sent a letter to George. Tonight Joe brought me two letters: one from Orpha and one from Nell Hall.
Wednesday 13. It is a cloudy cool day. It seems like Autumn. I iron this forenoon. Make bread. Sew a little this afternoon and do dishes as usual. Our fish man called tonight. He has been sick. I helped Ed Purple with his cattle this morn. O! how I wish I could see my own darling one.
Thursday 14. It is a very rainy day. It seems to me as though today has been a week. I am so lonesome I wish I could see my own darling George. I sent three letters by our fish man: one to Rev. S.O. Dyer. Mother finished one of my chemise tonight. I have written to my George this night. O! if I could see him.
Friday 15. It is a rainy forenoon, and this afternoon it commences to clear off. Mother sews for me. I sew some. Uncle Luke brought Celia a letter from cousin Lib. Bertha Fuller called. I went to Riverside, received a short letter from George. I opened George’s trunks with a key of mine.
Saturday 16. It is a cloudy day. I with Mother’s help packed my two trunks to go to Brattleboro. Aunt Sarah and Frankie here all day. Uncle Sam C. called. Sam Hale and a man called. We have had 14 here today. At night Mother and I go to town to get the oil. We are tired.
Sunday 17. It is a beautiful day. I am up at five, wash or bathe myself. Also Mother does. Then dress and get my hair nearly combed when my George came into the yard. He is sick all day. Joe and Celia go to Uncle Luke’s. Geo. Day called. My George is at home with me today and this evening he asked me to promise him to keep a secret. I did, and he told me, then said if I did not wish to marry him, then say for him to go. He said to me today, “he was the most unhappy person that lives.”
Monday 18. It is a cloudy morning and it rains quite hard this afternoon. This morn about 8 Father carried George and the two trunks to Gfld. O! how lonesome and sad I am without him. We sit up till eleven last night. I went to bed, soon Mother called me for Celia was sick; also, herself. Celia was sick all last night. Uncle Luke went after Dr. Fisk. He arrived here about three o’clock and at 8 o’clock this morn Celia’s little girl was born. I think it is awful homely. Last night when the Dr. was here I went into the other room and staid with George. O! how lonely I am. I wish I were at rest in Heaven.
Tuesday 19. It is a pleasant warm day. Mother and I wash. Celia is comfortable and has named her baby Edith Hattie. Father goes to S. Vernon to see about his work. Joe goes to the Falls. Brought me a letter from Rev. S. O. Dyer and Mother one from Uncle John. I have written to my George this eve. Dr. Fisk here today.
Wednesday 20. It is a cloudy hot day. Mother irons. Father goes to S. Vernon to work. I sent my letter to George by Mr. Martin. Mr. Gilman and wife called this eve. Fish man here. Joe goes to Gfld. afoot to see Dr. Fisk. I milked the old cow. Have written a letter to Nettie and to Nell Hall.
Thursday 21. It is a very rainy day. I go to the office and I get dreadful wet. I fear I shall be sick. I received no letter from my own George but I get one from Jennie Walker and a picture of Jim. I have written to George tonight. I have ironed today.
Friday 22. It is a rainy day. Father did not work but went to Gfld. to get Harry but he came up afoot from T. Falls. I sent my letter to George by Gillie Evans. F. went to Riverside for me, got a letter from George. Have packed my furniture. Liz and Meg called.
Saturday 23. It is sun shine and rain and quite cool. Uncle Luke carried my furniture to Gfld. to send to B. by freight. Mother went down with him, got lineings and silk for my wedding dress. Got me a set of dishes and a carpet. Deborah is here and helps us work. Aunt Sarah called.
Sunday 24. It is a pleasant chilly day. I am up late, have breakfast, chores done, make bed, and write a poor letter to my George. Write to Millie Stowe. Mrs. Albert Smith and her brother Charlie are here today to see Celia. I am so lonely without George.
Monday 25. It is a pleasant day. Father and Joe go to work. I iron Celia’s clothes. Mother washes. Ellen Blake here to see Celia. I wrote to Mrs. Mansfield, Mr. Waite, and Rust (at E.H.) today. Harrie and I go to Riverside, go and see Ella about fitting my wedding dress. I received a letter from George and one from Nettie.
Tuesday 26. It is a pleasant day. Just two weeks from tonight. I have ironed my clothes today. Harry and Eddie go to town. Mother washes. A tin peddler called. Father did not come home tonight. O! how I wish I could see my own darling George. I have had a severe headache.
Wednesday 27. It is a pleasant warm day. Mother made my Wedding cake today. I have washed the front room floor. Uncle Luke called this eve. The Ryther children called, also Bertha Fuller and her doll. O! time seems so long since I’ve seen George. I have a headache.
Thursday 28. It is a cool cloudy day. I sew a little on my brown dress. Mrs. Stearns been here to help us. I have ironed every day this week. I feel sick abed. The fish man here this morn. Mother does a washing. I receive a letter from Nell H. and I have written one to my own darling George.
Friday 29. It is a pleasant day. Mother goes to Mr. Miller’s to see about the place for Joe. Harrie and Eddie go to town and get silk for my brown suit. I wash and change me tonight. I received a letter from my darling George with his Marriage certificate.
Saturday 30. It is a cloudy rainy forenoon. I went to Riverside and got Ella Wyart to cut my wedding dress and white corduroy sack. She asked $1.25 for my suit and 50 cts. for sack. Harry went home today. I am awful tired. Retired at 8 o’clock last night. I received my trunks today. Ella P. Wyart cut and fitted my wedding dress, it is blue silk poplin. My [shirt]waist measure is: bust 32 inches, around my waist 26 ½ inches and down my back is 15 ½ inches.
Sunday 31. It is a very unpleasant day, rather rainy. Aunt Sarah and Frankie here. Uncle L. and Joe go to Gfld. I have written to my own George. O! how I would love to see him and have written to Nettie and Eva Ward and I am so tired. All I ask is let me rest.
September 1873
Monday 1. It is a cloudy unpleasant day. I am up about six, help about morning work, mop floors and wash some. Mrs. Stearns here this p.m. I sew some on my wedding dress, then went to Riverside. Received a short note from George. I have been sewing tonight on my dress and it is after two o’clock as I retire.
Tuesday 2. It is a pleasant day but quite windy, and it is a lovely eve. Tonight I received a letter from my own darling George, written by a Mr. Lamb because George has hurt his right hand. Father goes to Gfld and Waldo and Mary Prouty come here to stay just overnight! how well I love my own darling George.
Wednesday 3. It is a pleasant cool day. I wrote to Nellie Hall last night. Mother wrote to Mr. S. O. Dyer this morn. This p.m. Father carryed Waldo and Mary P. to Gfld. to take the cars. I have sewed some. I have a severe pain in my bowels and back. The fishman Mr. Hunter called tonight, he has seen Ida Wood.
Thursday 4. It has been a pleasant warm day. Thunder showers around us. I have sewed nearly all day. It is now half past eleven. I retired at four this morn, for last night Mrs. Stearns here. Father goes to Athol, Joe to N. S. Burrows. I have not received a letter from George. I wonder how he is.
Friday 5. It is a pleasant warm day. Deborah came this morn to sew and did my wedding chemise is made today. Father as mad as usual. I received a letter from Millie Stowe and Nettie P. but I did not get one from my own darling. I am writing to him this eve and must pack my trunks.
Saturday 6. It is a pleasant day and a beautiful evening. Mother is sick this morn. Uncle L. took my trunks to Gfld. Today. F. + Mother go to Gfld. I do my washing. Mr. Drew called. Deborah here this afternoon. I go to Riverside. Receive a letter from Mr. Dyer.
Sunday 7. It is a pleasant day but a cloudy eve, looks like rain. I am up a little after nine. I have cut Edwin’s hair, have worn my wedding shoes. Morris and Aria come about night we went to ride. I am tired of thinking. I wish I could see my own George.
Monday 8. It is a pleasant day and eve. O! how I wish my darling George were here. I wonder why he hasn’t sent me a line. I am so lonely waiting for him. I have ironed and sewed. Retire about two o’clock in the night. Aunt Sarah and F. are here. I am awful tired. I pray the Heavenly father — Joe has bought the house that used to be Grandmarm Hosley’s, of Mr. Miller.
Tuesday 9. It is a beautiful day and a pleasant eve. The clouds this morn was so pretty but my heart was troubled. Deborah here all day. Father and Mother went to Greenfield. George and Mr. Dyer came and we were married this eve at seven o’clock. At seven o’clock in the evening My own darling George and I was married. At our wedding was, we were married at my home by Rev. S. O. Dyer of East Hampton. Grandpa Knowlton and Aunt Caroline and Deborah, Uncle Luke, Aunt Sarah and Frankie, Father, Mother, Celia, Eddie and Joseph attended our wedding. We come right to Brattleboro Vermont tonight.
Wednesday 10. It is a pleasant day. George goes to work. He comes home several times. We arrived here in Brattleboro, Vt. last night about eleven o’clock. Kittie Wales called today. Geo. and I went up to Father B’s this eve. I’ve washed dishes all day. I am some weak today.
Thursday 11. It is a pleasant day. George goes to work, comes home several times. We are getting things into the house as fast as we can. Minnie Downer come here today and this eve Julia Downer called. I’ve washed dishes all day. Mr. Wales gave us a moulding board.
Friday 12.It is a pleasant day. George at work. He has to be out at night till about eleven o’clock. This eve we went up to Father’s. I have been washing floors today. Mrs. Downer called for a few minutes with one of Will’s girls. I think I have got a kind and loving Husband.
Saturday 13. It is a cloudy unpleasant day. Rain’s some this eve. Kittie is here every day. Minnie D. called and this eve Will’s oldest girl called and gave us a broom. We saw our marriage in the Springfield paper tonight. I’ve [been] sewing and am some tired, but I am happy with my loved Husband.
Sunday 14. It is rather rainy all day. We do not attend Church for which I am sorry. Helen called this eve. We had just retired.
Wednesday 17. It is a pleasant day. I sit up tonight until George come. I have written to Mother.
Thursday 18. It is a pleasant day. George and I go to see Julia this eve. I am sick and have to come home.
Friday 19. It is a very rainy day. Have been feeling very well all day.
Saturday 20. It is a pleasant day. There was a fireman’s muster here today. Uncle Sam C. and Orrin Scott was here today to dinner. This p.m. I went out with Hattie Wales, saw Hellen, had an introduction to Will. Helen called here this eve. George gets home after 8. Uncle Sam Connable took dinner with me, He gave me 7 peaches and a half dollar in silver.
Tuesday 23. George got us a new stove today. It is a rainy day. Helen sent me some yeast.
Thursday 25. This morn I started for Greenfield. Abbie Clap went down with me. It is Cattle Show here. I arrived in Gill at eve safely. I brought a box of pear’s home to Mother which George sent. I saw Mr. Streeter.
Friday 26. It is a pleasant day. Mother and I go down to Celia’s to sew on my dress. We sew all day and I sit up at night till two o’clock.
Saturday 27. Father came after us. I do not get my suit done. Get to Gill and I am almost sick abed. Get ready to go home to Brattleboro. I take my looking glass and little Velvet and my loaf of wedding cake. George met me on the train.
Sunday 28. This eve George and I go up to Fathers and he Father Bardwell presented to me a dollar in silver money.
Monday 29. Have washed.
Tuesday 30. I baked this morn and have cleaned one of my chambers. Am very tired.
October 1873
Wednesday 1. It is a very pleasant day. George has hurt his hand. I cleaned the second chamber today and I am awful tired. I expect Mother tomorrow.
Thursday 2. It is a lovely day. At about one o’clock Father, Mother, and Eddie came. Mother brought me a lot of my things and she has brought me a new bedstead and rocking chair. George went up to Father B’s and got two chairs.
Friday 3. Mother is sewing for me every minute. She washed my floor today. We received the bed today that Mother has given to me. Father Williams went up to see Father Bardwell. Mother had no time to go.
Saturday 4. We worked late on my dress tonight but could not quite finish it.
Sunday 5. It is some rainy and some pleasant. At eleven o’clock Father, Mother, and Eddie start for Gill, Mass. with little Nellie. I am lonesome to have them go.
Monday 6. It is a very rainy day. I wash. Am very lonesome. Wish I could hear from some of the East Hampton girls. I dreamed of them last night.
Tuesday 7. I have been married four weeks tonight. I have commenced a letter to Nettie E. Burnham this eve but am so sleepy must leave it and retire. It has rained all day.
Wednesday 8. It is a pleasant day. This eve George and I go up to Father’s. He told me this place, our home, is to be ours when he is gone. I have finished my letter to Nettie this eve and I am tired. I would love to see E.H.
Thursday 9. Helen and two children here this eve. Helen sent us some warm biscuit for supper. They were nice.
Friday 10. I have ironed nearly all day. Been up street, went to the depot. Wore my brown suit. Have written to Mother this eve. Hattie Wales was here this eve. I lent my reticule to her this eve for a week. I am tired.
Monday 13. Received a letter from my old roommate Nettie E. Burnham and I was glad to hear from her and East Hampton.
Wednesday 15. I went to Sophia’s and Father’s this afternoon about half past three. When I got there staid till half past nine this eve. George came up there to tea. I intended to come home and get supper.
Sunday 19. + In the afternoon.
Tuesday 21. Six weeks ago this evening we were married, how long a time and yet how short. Hattie Wales got home last night, came down here today and wanted me to go up street with her and I did.
Wednesday 22. Father Williams came today and brought us a stove, which used to be Aunt Isabelle’s, and bag of potatoes and turnips. We went home this p.m. Hattie Wales and Emma Clark called a short time this p.m.
Thursday 23. I start for Hinsdale N.H. this morn to see Aunt Mary Ann Horton and family. Went to H. Village, hired a team and went to Chestnut Hill. None of them knew me at first. Ida has got a new piano. I am having a splendid time.
Friday 24. I slept with Ida last night just as I used to. The school teacher Emma Wellman boards here. I wrote in her album, also Ida’s. I went into school this a.m. Uncle E. brought me to the depot. George met me at S. Vernon and now I am at home.
Saturday 25. I am very tired today. Abbie Clapp came here this a.m., staid till three o’clock then started for Greenfield. Julia and all her family here this eve. O my Heavenly father wilt thou bless my beloved husband.
Sunday 26. Write to Nettie E.B.
Thursday 30. Kittie Wales here this afternoon and staid to supper. Kittie and I went up street. I got me a new hat. It is to cost $7.09. I am tired.
November 1873
Saturday 1. George went up street this p.m. and got my hat. He paid seven dollars and five cents for it. The white plume on it cost three dollars. I think my hat is sweet pretty.
Sunday 2. I went to church this morn. Went up to Father’s this eve and have written a letter to Mother.
Thursday 6. George and I go up to Julia’s this eve. All at home. Helen and her two children (Allie and Lilla) were there, came home with us.
Sunday 9. Write to Mother and Orpha Tillson. George has written to his sister Melissa.
Monday 10. Received a letter from Nettie.
Wednesday 12. This p.m. about ½ past three Helen and her two children came. At six o’clock Will came and they all staid to supper. Mrs. Lambson called a few moments this p.m.
Thursday 13. Father Williams is 48 years old today. Sent Eva L. Ward a note.
Friday 14. It is my birthday and I am 23 years old today. Eva Ward came to see me today. We went up street to the depot and to Estey’s organ shop. Eva’s sister Emma took tea with us. We received a box of butter from Mother.
Saturday 15. Eva went home on the Coach this morning. Mrs. Lamson called to get my recipe for cookies. I am tired. Yesterday George gave me a new broom and 10 cents in money, all I wished for.
Tuesday 18. In the morning.
Friday 21. Went up street this afternoon. Got me a new pair of shoes. Cost $2.25. Got me six new baking pie plates. Cost 60 cents. Went up to Father’s, took tea with Sophie and George came up to tea.
Sunday 23. Write to Nett.
Wednesday 26. I made my first chicken pie this forenoon. A man called to sell medicine. I bought a bottle, Cost 50 cts. Abbie Clap came here this forenoon and staid till the ½ past three train went out.
Thursday 27. It is Thanksgiving Day here and in Mass. Mother invited us home to spend Thanksgiving but George cannot leave his work. George and I eat our first Thanksgiving dinner together and alone at one o’clock. We had an invitation to Elijah’s but did not accept.
December 1873
Wednesday 3. Mr. Lindsy had two hogs killed right out in the street this p.m. I go up to Father Bardwell’s for half an hour. At five o’clock I call upon Mrs. Lamson, as she has called upon me four times. Today is the first time I have called there.
Thursday 4. It is a very unpleasant day. I come down to Mother’s. It is her birthday. She is 38 years old today. I made her a present of a dollar bill. I had to hire a team to get up home, Cost $2.50. Went up to see Joe and Cele.
Friday 5. I slept with Mother last night, and Edith. I went over to Uncle Luke’s yesterday. Joe and Cele have got an organ. I gave Cele my black felt hat. C. does my hair up new style. I come home on the p.m. train.
Saturday 6. I have a great deal to do today after being gone. Abbie Clap came here this morning, staid till three o’clock this p.m. She said Alma is going to be married tomorrow. I iron this p.m. Am rather tired. I am so glad to get home and see my George.
Tuesday 9. As usual I bake today. It takes me all day. About four o’clock Hattie Wales came, staid (to tea) till nearly ten o’clock. O! I am awful tired. George brought me a note from Eva Ward.
Wednesday 10. I am up, work done, and get ready to take the Coach to go to Eva Ward’s. I arrive here about 9 o’clock. She has company, a cousin from Mass. His name is Francis Newton. I am staying over night with Eva and am enjoying my visit nicely.
Thursday 11. Am up this morn at 7 o’clock. Have breakfast at 8. Fred and Eva bring me home. I had a nice ride. Am glad to get home. Looked for Velvet the first thing and found him. Mary Lamson came over and fed him. I had an introduction to Mrs. Gibson this a.m. Mrs. Lamb introduced us.
Friday 12. Yesterday we heard that Ezra O. Purple is dead. Of Gill.
Saturday 13. My husband, George C. Bardwell is 28 years old today.
Sunday 14. Been at home all day. About three o’clock Mrs. Lamson called and asked me to go to the Baptist Consert with her. I told her I could not go but afterwards thought I could and I did but was sick in church.
Monday 15. I am very tired tonight. After washing I feel sick enough to be abed. Emma Ward is alone this eve and wished me to stay or visit with her and I did. Mrs. Lamson, May, and Anson Young have gone up to his father’s.
Tuesday 16. I have baked today. I invited Emma Ward to come in and stay with me this eve. She did so. We had a very pleasant time.
Wednesday 17. I baked some today. Kittie Wales here this afternoon and to tea. About a quarter of six Mrs. Lamson came in and wanted me to get ready by ½ past six and go over to Hinsdale, N.H. with them to a Baptist fair. I went and got my hat set [sat] on.
Thursday 18. A pleasant day. I go up street. Got me several small articles and ordered six new chairs at $1.60 for six.
Friday 19. Julia and Minnie come about two o’clock. I was ironing but did not finish. Mr. Downer and Charlie come about five and they were all here at tea. My chairs came this a.m.. I was mistaken. They are $1.60 a piece and I do not want to keep them.
Saturday 20. George got up about three o’clock and went to Gfld. to meet Mother, but she did not come. I have a great deal of picking up to do today and some ironing. I wish I was dead for I know George would be better off without me. The man came after the chairs about ½ past five.
Sunday 21. It is a pleasant day. I have not been to church. George has worked at the depot nearly all day. Mrs. Lamson came in and gave me some molasses candy. I am going to retire early.
Jennie’s diary ends with this entry. We hope that the reader has enjoyed this glimpse into the lives of tiny group of ordinary New Englanders of an earlier time. A second diary has been found, this one by a group of Gill, Massachusetts historians. Plans are in the works for a publication integrating the two and providing further background information on Jennie and her little circle of family and friends. When it is available, details will be published in our newsletter.
