David’s diary demonstrates the sense of responsibility he brings to farm management when his father dies in 1854 and he and his mother take charge of the farm.  You can follow his activities from 1854-1857 in his brother, William’s, diary.  In 1857 he begins his own diary where he details farm work and money spent.  David remains a bachelor until age 32 and becomes well known for his purebred shorthorn cattle which win many fair prizes and his civic leadership.