John Harrington Ferguson (1851-1931)
1873 Diary
(Extracted from https://ontariofarmhistory.wordpress.com/)
Transcribed by Teresa Casas

January
Wednesday 1
1873
A mild cloudy day, capital sleighing, more than a foot of snow on the level. Drove my sisters
Viney and Emma in the cutter this morning up to Mrs. J.C. Snell’s residence, lot 14, they spent
the day there, went up there again this evening to a small party of the young folks of “Willow
Lodge” and “Rose Lea” and after a splendid supper, we spent the evening pleasantly in various
games and pastimes.

January
Thursday 2
1873
Drove up to J.C. Snell’s today with 18 bush of barley to exchange for the same amount of theirs
for seed next spring. Mr. A.F. Campbell came here this afternoon on a visit, he is looking well, is
hired for another year at Palestine school. A drizzling rain from the East, the start of the January
thaw.

January
Friday 3
1873
The rain and the thaw continued all last night, making it slushy travelling. Was engaged in
threshing peas with the flail. Father and mother and Alek drove up to J.C. Snell’s for New Year’s
dinner, came home again this evening. Alek is intelligent and well-read but a Tory in heart and
principle. He has bought a new Cabinet Organ.

January
Saturday 4
1873
Egerton Ferguson and Viney went to Toronto via Grand Trunk Railway. Eggy has been here two
weeks spending the holidays. Alek went back home today. Mr. James Stinson from Minto came
here this evening on a visit; it is six years since he was here before. The thawing has ceased,
taken away about one third of the snow.

January
Sunday 5
1873
Spent the forenoon at S. School Supt, John Rloraig, pres. Lesson “The Creation” Genesis I
chap 25–31 verses. Handsomely illustrated gift cards were distributed among the children by
the Supt. Heard Rev. John Shaw preach (sic) at Zion an impressive sermon on the value of time
and good counsel for the New Year. A driving snow storm from N.E. all day.

January
Monday 6
1873
The election for Deputy Reeve of this Township took place, J. P. Hutton and J. Henderson were
elected by large majorities. In Brampton Dr. C.Y. Moore was elected councillor on the
Temperance ticket. Spent the evening at the Lodge one initiated “Safeguard Chronicle” by Bro.
M. Sipby and some readings. I today used my franchise to vote for the second time and been on
the winning side.

January
Tuesday 7
1873
Had a visit yesterday from C. Faux and his two cousins, “Misses Janet Faux and Mary Mino,
both interesting young ladies. This was a bright beautiful day, spent it at general job work, the
everyday routine. Went to Ebenezer tonight to a S.S. Teachers Meeting (see below) but J.C.
Snell and I were the only ones present not enough to form a quorum.

January
Wednesday 8
1873
The Annual School Meetings took place today in all the School Sections in our Section only 7 or
8 ratepayers present not much business to be done, a surplus of $54.00 after paying all
expenses, Miss S. H. Smith is engaged for this year as teacher $280.00. A great Reform
Banquet is held in Toronto tonight several Grits from this County are at it.

January
Thursday 9
1873
Drove sleigh to Brampton this morning for Aunts, Mrs. Trueman and Mrs. Featherstone brought
them up to spend the day. Made three trips to Brampton and back one to meet Viney at RR
Depot but she did not come and again tonight to take home our visitors they are two extra fine
sensible old ladies. A very cold day. Mercury down to zero.

January
Friday 10
1873
J.C. Snell and family were here this afternoon and took tea and then we drove the sleigh down
to Brampton to hear Rev. Dr. Punshon lecture on “the men of the Mayflower” it lasted 1 hour
and 20 min. and was a masterpiece of eloquence.

January
Saturday 11
1873
Last night was bitter cold. Some that were at Dr. Punshon’s lecture had to drive 10 miles
afterwards. Was pea threshing, cannot do much else these days and take care of the stock.
Drove to Brampton tonight and received a postal card from Viney in Toronto she will be home
on Monday. The “Casket” is a splendid little paper.

January
Sunday 12
1873
Drove Mrs. J. C. S. and some of the little folks up to S. School, the Supt. Pres; lesson Genesis
II, 15 to 25; subject, “In the garden of Eden” Nicholas V. Watson and his bride were present they
were married on Christmas Day. Heard Reverend. J. Shaw preaching in Brampton tonight text,
Joshua XXIV, 15th verse, a solemn covenant for the New Year.

January
Monday 13
1873
Had considerable difficulty in getting any water for the cattle in the creek, the current seems to
be frozen up, there is some water under the snow along the banks. There is another thaw on
hand, which will make water more plentiful. Viney came home from Toronto, was there 9 days.
Spent tonight at the Lodge, the “Safeguard Chronicle” by Miss Jessie Morton.

January
Tuesday 14
1873
Was engaged this morning in dressing our old Berkshire sow—4 ½ years old for pork. Drove to
Brampton his afternoon with 13 bush of wheat for gristing and 18 bush of barley for chopping to
J. W. Maine’s Steam Grist Mill. Spent evening reading Hugh Murray’s History of British
India. Received a letter from Aunt Annie Ferguson, they are in good health, but the times are
dull.

January
Wednesday 15
1873
Went to Brampton and sold the pork to K. C. & Co. @$5.00 per cut it weighed 318 lbs. bought
126 lbs of beef @ 5cts per lb. Heard Prof. Rockwell of New York give a short lecture on horse
training and exhibit a white horse that seemed to understand all he said to it and act
accordingly. He got up a class for instruction in the Art. @ $5.00 each scholar
January
Thursday 16
1873
Rain fell in considerable quantities during last night and nearly all today from N. E. Spent the
forenoon in getting the horses sharp shod as the roads are now a perfect glare of ice, got the
shoeing done at Campbell’s. Was invited to a surprise party for this evening at Edmonton but
the rain poured down all evening and prevented us going.

January
Friday 17
1873
Had a call from Thorpe Wright of Artemisia, to have a look at the stock and to buy but we came
to no bargain. Spent evening at Choir Practice at Mr. Jesse Perry’s house, a pretty full
attendance sang some long and difficult anthems to be used for a source next week at Mount
Pleasant.

January
Saturday 18
1873
Another very cold snap, down to and a little below zero. Did not do much business today beside
stock feeding. Viney and I drove up to J. C. Snell’s tonight and spent two or three hours in social
chat and reading the “Livestock Journal” an excellent monthly published in Chicago exclusively
to improve livestock.

January
Sunday 19
1873
Went to S. School this morning Supt. And Sec. present. Lesson Gen. III 1 to 8, and 15th. “The
Fall and the Promise”, had a large attendance of scholars. Heard Rev J. G. Scott preach at Zion
at 2.30 p.m. text Isaiah IX 6th verse, he and Mr. Eli Crawford Jr. took tea here this evening.
Heard Rev. W. McFadden preach at Brampton text Psalm XXVII 4th.

January
Monday 20
1873
Drove my sisters Emma and Ella over to day school this morning and spent the remainder of the
day sawing cordwood with bucksaw. Spent the evening at Ebenezer at a Teachers’ and
Scholars’ meeting for to make some necessary arrangements for the lecture on Wednesday
evening.

January
Tuesday 21
1873
Spent forenoon same as yesterday. Drove Viney to Brampton this afternoon for her music
lesson from Miss Jennie Norris. Spent an hour profitably and pleasantly in reading in
Mechanic’s Reading Room. There are three Toronto dailies and a host of illustrated papers and
Magazines. Had a heavy fall of snow today, soft and heavy.

January
Wednesday 22
1873
Spent forenoon building a platform in Zion for the lecturer tonight. Drove up to Mr. J. Pleraig’s
this afternoon to repair their melodeon. VIney and I took tea “Willow Lodge” this evening also
Rev. J. G. Scott and Eli Crawford. The church was more than half filled to hear Mr. Scott’s
lecture it was very good lecture. A collection of $5.30. for the S. School.

January
Thursday 23
1873
A party at Mr. Pleraig’s “Green Grove Farm” this evening for the Teachers and larger scholars of
the Ebenezer S. S. School. Viney was at it but I went to Mount pleasant with Brampton W. M.
choir to sing at a Presb. Tea party, they had a crowded house and good speaking, Rev. J.
Perrin , Rev. W. Little, Rev. Ewing , C. J. Moore. Got home at 12 o’clock.

January
Friday 24
1873
Very cold and stormy last night. Not doing much work this week going to so many places at
night and losing so much sleep it about uses a fellow up altogether. Had a visit this evening
from C. Faux. Spent this evening at the Temperance Reunion held in Concert Hall Brampton the
attendance was good.

January
Saturday 25
1873
Mr. J. Hughes of Toronto gave some excellent readings last night had also readings by Messrs.
D.L. Scott, H. Morphy, J. Fleming. Music by Misses Chisolm, Dawson and E. Nichols, Messrs
Marshall and Haggert. Was engaged today in pea threshing. Father went up to R. R. Craig’s
and seen his fine stock.

January
Sunday 26
1873
Spent morning at S. School Supt., & Sec. present, lesson Gen IV 3 to 10, “Cain and Abel” J. C.
Snell and family were here to tea tonight and we all drove down to Church at 6 p.m. heard Rev.
W. Galloway from Yonge Street circuit preach text I Corinth XIII chap. And latter part of
12th verse.

January
Monday 27
1873
Spent the day fanning peas sawing firewood &c. Bright beautiful sunshine all day. Had a visit
from Mr. Henry J. Modeland and his wife. Spent evening at the Lodge, one initiation, the
election of Officers for next Quarter took place, J. M. Jones for W. C. J. I was re-elected to
Financial Secretary.
January
Tuesday 28
1873
Sold to K. Chisolm & Co. 22 bush 50lbs. of Diehl wheat @ $1.31 per bush. Had a visit afternoon
and evening from Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Jones and their two little girls, they are a pleasant and
chatty couple. A bitter cold night. Wrote a letter to Aunt Jennie Harrington.

January
Wednesday 29
1873
Drove to Brampton this morning and bought of Burnett the Cabinet Maker one half dozen cane
bottomed chairs and two French bedsteads @ 17.00. Went at “Green Grove Farm” a short while
this afternoon also at “Willow Lodge”. Viney and I drove to J. C. Snells and stayed all night. The
severest frost fell this winter 32 degrees below zero at daybreak this morning.

January

Thursday 30

1873

Went from J.C. S.’s at 9 a.m. to Willow Lodge and started with a sleigh load of the young folks
for Bolton to attend the C. P. S. School Association’s Annual Meeting it was very successful and
crowds of people attended it, the speaking and music were excellent. J. C. S. the President
gave way for Mr. Hossie for next President. The sleigh drive was cold but had lots of furs.

January
Friday 31
1873
Arrived home from Bolton at 2 o’clock this morning very cold. Miss Jennie Faux is here on a
visit. Spent the day sawing firewood. At Brampton a reunion of W. M. S. School, readings and
recitations by the scholars were creditably performed they were trained by J. G. Bunting. This
month has been very cold and stormy, considerable snow on the ground.
February
Saturday 1
1873
Was at the same work as yesterday and pea threshing. Mailed to Bro. J.M. Jones (who is one of
the Auditors) the financial accounts of Safe Guard Temple, is only $4.30 in the Treasury. The
Official Quar. Meeting of W. M. Church was held at Brampton at 2 p.m. they talk of having the
third minister on this circuit.

February
Sunday 2
1873
Went to Quarterly Meeting at Brampton. Rev. J. Learoyd of Yonge Street South preached text
Deut. XXIX 29th a pretty large attendance and a good meeting. Had Choir Practice at 4 pm. In
the W. M. Church. Took tea with J. G. Bunting they have a cosy home, just opposite the Court
House. Rev. J. Learoyd preached tonight text, Hebrews V, 9 and 10.

February
Monday 3
1873
Spent the day at wood sawing. Went to Brampton tonight and bought a South Sea sealskin cap
at K. C. & Co. @ $7.00 it has a dome top and fur covered peak. Spent evening at the Lodge,
Rev. J. Shaw installed the Officers for current Quarter Safe Guard Chronicle by sister Robb and
a reading by Bro. J. J. Bunting.

February
Tuesday 4
1873
Thawed very fast all day a warm strong west wind cut the snow very fast. Was at the same work
as yesterday. Spent the evening at J.C. Snells in social chat. Missess Sara and Kezia Snell
have been spending 3 or 4 days in Toronto and had the privilege of visiting the Ontario
Parliament now in session, heard the debate on the Temperance Bill.

February

Wednesday 5

1873

At the buck sawing yet, getting used to it now and don’t find it so hard work as at first, J. C. Snell
called here, he is enrolling the Militia. Rented our pew in Brampton Church on for another year
@ 2.50 paid cash to one of the Trustees. Had a meeting at Zion tonight to arrange for starting a
new Lodge of Good Templars.

February
Thursday 6
1873
The same work continued, have one half of the green wood sawed. Father and mother are
visiting at J.W. Mains, Brampton. Spent evening casting up the Temple accounts and in working
Arithmetical problems for sister Emma. The weather is beautiful, the sky cloudless by day and
by night lovely moonlight.

February
Friday 7
1873
Had a call today from Mr. J. Williams of Eramea, a kind of quack doctor but he sells a very good
article of a purely vegetable medicine @$1.00 per bottle, father bought one from him. Spent
evening at Choir Practice for the approaching tea meetings. Got my hair barbered at J. E.
Wood’s.

February
Saturday 8
1873
Was engaged at pea threshing and various other jobs. The thaw has ceased for the present and
is getting very frosty again, the sleighing on the Centre Road is nearly spoiled. Spent evening
reading a library entitled “New America” a lively, entertaining book by C. Hepworth Dixon about
travels in the far West.

February
Sunday 9
1873
Went to S. School this morning Supt. and Sec. pres. Lesson Genesis IX, 8 to 17, “The Bow in
the Cloud”. Was at W. M. S. School in Brampton this afternoon, about 150 scholars present. J.
W. Beynon Supt. Had Choir Practice at 4 o’clock in the Church. Took tea at Mrs. Trueman’s.
Heard Rev. Wood of Toronto preach tonight text, Psalms 1 XXXVII 3rd.

February
Monday 10
1873
Was at the wood sawing. Spent evening at Brampton at John Street Presb. Church Soiree with
W. M. Choir. The singing was good and loudly applauded the speakers Rev. Breckenrige, Rev.
Croll and Rev. Herridge and others.

February

Tuesday 11

1873

Went to Brampton and was at a Public Meeting of the School Trustees. Spent evening at the W.
M. Anniversary Tea Meeting, Brampton, was not largely attended, speakers were Rev. Jeffrey
of Milton, an eloquent speaker, Rev. B. Shulock and Rev. J. H. Starr. Drove up to Willow Lodge
tonight and staid all night.

February
Wednesday 12
1873
Started for a visit to Markham this morning at 9 o’clock a sleigh load of young folks and took
dinner at Mrs. Russel’s on Yonge Street, very sociable and intelligent people large farmers, from
thence we drove east 10 miles to Mr. George Millers for tea. Spent evening at a large and
fashionable party at Mr. Hoope’s and had a lively time.

February
Thursday 13
1873
Got to bed at 5 o’clock this morning at George Millers and slept two hours, had breakfast at 10
o’clock. We drove to Markham Village and had dinner at Mr. Armstrong’s and spent afternoon at
games and fun. Took tea at Mr. Wale’s the young folks there were musicians and intelligent.
Staid all night at George Millers after sleigh riding nearly all evening.

February
Friday 14
1873
Made preparations for starting home at G. Millers, they are free, warm hearted Scotch people
and lively, making lots of fun at all times. Took dinner again at Russels they are also Scotch and
very warm hearted sparing no pains to make one feel at home. Got home tonight at eight
o’clock. Had a most enjoyable time and pleasant weather.

February
Saturday 15
1873
Did not feel in working humour today and consequently did not do a great deal. Spent afternoon
at Brampton, M. Shipley had a sale of Household Furniture. Bought a fashionable stand up linen
collar. Was at J. R. Craig’s tonight on business and a short time at J. C. Snell’s.

February
Sunday 16
1873
Walked up to S. School this morning for the first time this winter. Supt. And Sec. present, lesson
Gen. XI, 1 to 9. “Confusion of Tongues”. Printed copies of an address “The Seed” by Rev. Dr.
Barne of Montreal were given each teacher by the Supt. Heard Rev. J. G. Scott preach at Zion
text, Rev. VIII 9 and 10 verses. Heard same sermon tonight.

February

Monday 17

1873

Drove over to Esquesing this morning to Bannerman’s Saw Mill (late J. Stewarts’) and left a bill
of fence lumber to be sawed again Friday next 70 pieces 6 inch width 14 ft long and 60 pieces 8
inch width 14 ft long, 40 pieces 4 inch 12 ft long@ $10.00 per thousand. Brought home 400 ft
cull lumber @ $4>50 per m. 192 ft 2 X 4 scantting 136 ft – 2 inch pland @ $10.00 per m. It is a
very good lumber.

February
Tuesday 18
1873
Had a visit yesterday from Mrs. Davison and Miss Emma Dawson of Brampton. Spent last night
at the Lodge “Safeguard Chronicle” by Sr Jessie Morton and several readings by other
members. Father and mother were visiting all day at Mr. John Pearen on 6th line East, Mrs.
Trueman was with them. The weather is most beautiful and the snow is fast disappearing under
the heat of the sun’s rays.

February
Wednesday 19
1873
Spent forenoon at Campbell’s blacksmith’s shop getting the front shoes of “Fan” and “Charlie”
sharpened. Drove up to J. R. Craig’s this afternoon and brought from thence a small load of
wheat straw to Brampton for Rev. J. Shaw. Viney and Miss Susie Campbell were collecting
money for the Bible Society on Centre Road they got about $7.00 we gave 75 cts.

February
Thursday 20
1873
Miss Susie Campbell staid here all last night, she is intelligent and good natured. Went to
Brampton and sold to K. C. & Co. 32 bush of Diehl wheat @ $1.32 per bush=$43.12 bought 4
lbs of best mixed green and Black Tea. J. C. Snell and family were home for tea this evening.
They bought as a present a bag of green apples.

February
Friday 21
1873
A few inches of snow fell last night and has drifted about furiously all day by a cold Nor Wester.
Bought from Dougall Smith 10 bush of Rio Grande spring wheat @ $1.25 cts it is clean and a
good sample. Put a patent hinge opening copper ring in “Oliver Twist’s” nose. Made a plank
watering trough for the sheep 11 ft. long.

February
Saturday 22
1873
Drove sleigh to Esquesing to Douglass and Bannerman’s Steam saw mill and brought home
1,200 ft of green fence lumber, the roads were somewhat drifted and the material heavy, rather
hard work for the team. J. Learment brought 200 ft for me out of the 1200 ft. Paid for the last
load and this one $17.50. This ends any teaming experience for this winter I hope.

February
Sunday 23
1873
A severely cold morning. Drove up to S. School at 9:38 a.m. The Supt and Sec. pres. Lesson
Genesis XV 1 to 7, “God’s covenant with Adam”. Spent afternoon at home writing up the S. S.
Class books. Heard Rev. J. G. Scott preach at 6 p.m. at Brampton W. M. Church, text Jeremiah
XIII, first clause of 21st verse, a masterly discourse on future rewards and punishments.

February
Monday 24
1873
A very cold day. Drove Ella over to school this morning and went after the scholars this evening.
Spent evening at the Lodge two initiations, a good attendance and a lively meeting. “Safe Guard
Chronicle” by Sr. M. Robb and several comic readings. Got my library book changed at
“Mechanics Institute” and paid for Members Ticket for this year $1.00.

February
Tuesday 25
1873
Finished sawing the dry cord wood was at it all day. Father went to Brampton to get a new zinc
bottom in the churn, costing $1.00 at Peaker & Runian’s Hardware store. Spent evening reading
“Life of George Stephenson” the Railway Engineer and Inventor, a very interesting and
instructive book.

February
Wednesday 26
1873
Was training the 2 yr old colt—“Frank” getting him familiar with the bit and harness, hitched him
to the sleigh for a short time. Spent evening at Brampton at the “Mechanics” Renunion, choice
readings and music by some of the Amateurs of the town which were very creditably performed.

February
Thursday 27
1873
A driving snow storm from East last night and this morning. Spent day splitting firewood. Except
Viney and I the folks were all up at J. C. Snell’s visiting. They have a fine lot of young lambs at
Willow Lodge (33) strong and healthy, brilliant prospects for a great display of sheep next fall.

February
Friday 28
1873
Drove Emma and Ella over to school also Miss. E. Carter and Miss M. Huxley who are school
mates of my sisters, were at our place all last night. Spent evening at Choir Practice, not a full
attendance of members. Today was fine and bright. The weather this month has been more
moderate than last month.
March

Saturday 1

1873

Was threshing “Golden Vine” peas all day with the flail do not yield many peas in proportion to
the straw. Mailed a letter last night to Mrs. John Mason and another to Rev. S. Rose, Toronto
enclosing 20 cts for a “Bureau Question Book”. Mrs. Thomas Whitehead of Kansas City in in
Brampton for a visit.

March
Sunday 2
1873
Spent forenoon at S. School Sup and Sec, pres. , lesson Genesis XXX, 15 to 26, “Escape from
Sodom”, the “S.S. Advocate” of Feb. 22 was distributed among the scholars. Heard Rev. J.
Shaw preach at Zion, this morning S. S. lesson. Heard same minister tonight in Brampton, text,
Matt. XXVI 21st verse. A real Methodist sermon.

March
Monday 3
1873
An extremely cold day, a stiff Nor Easter and the thermometer below zero. Went to Brampton
and had a settlement at “Merchant’s Bank” drawing the interest due on deposit $7.78 and
drawing out $50, for to use. Bought of K. C. & Co. 26 bush crown peas @75 cts, 2 bush clover
seed @ $6.00 per bush and $3.00 worth of tea.

March
Tuesday 4
1873
Spent last evening at the Lodge, one initiation, Chronicle by Bro. G.H. Golding and some
readings by other members. Took to J. W. Mains Mill 16 bush barley, 7 bush oats for chopping.
Spent this evening at Mr. J. M. Jones’s at a small social party of a few Brampton folks and
Sarah, Kezzie and Joe Snell and Viney, charades, readings and music till 12 o’clock. Mailed a
letter to Mrs. John Ferguson.

March
Wednesday 5
1873
Had the first arrival of young stock yesterday in shape of a red b. calf from “Cherry”. Was
splitting and piling firewood. Had a visit from Mrs. Robert Smith this afternoon, Mr. Smith is now
at Ottawa at Dominion Parliament. Spent evening reading a library “The History of Wonderful
Inventions” Bought yesterday off J. Woodhall one quarter beef 34 lbs @ 4 cts.

March
Thursday 6
1873
At Brampton this forenoon got a bushel of wheat cracked for mush or porridge. Henry
Modeland’s Auction Sale of Farm Stock and Implements took place today, nearly all of it
brought high prices. Our first arrival of young lambs this morning, one pair of twins.

March

Friday 7

1873

A bright beautiful day. Thawing very fast . Was engaged at the wood splitting. Spent evening at
Zion at Annual Missionary Meeting, very small attendance, speeches by Rev’s Shaw Scott, and
Sherlock and right good ones, sensible and to the point, music by the Choir, Misses K. Snell, V.
Ferguson were chosen for collectors.

March
Saturday 8
1873
A very high wind with snow squalls. Had a visit from Christopher Faux. The Reform party had a
Committee Meeting in Brampton today on important business. Received from Toronto the
Bureau Question Book for this year for use in S. Schools, a very instructive and useful article.

March
Sunday 9
1873
Spent forenoon at Sp. School Supt. And Sec.-pres. , lesson-Genesis XXII1st to 15th Trial of
Abraham’s Faith”, one of those touching and deeply interesting incidents with which the Bible
abounds. Heard Rev. John Shaw preach in Brampton this evening text Luke XlX chap 40 and
41st. The congregations there are very large the church being filled every Sunday.

March
Monday 10
1873
Lost a valuable ewe this morning and 3 lambs (triplets). Was engaged at splitting wood piling.
Spent evening at the Lodge, two initiations. Chronicle by Bro. J. E. Starr and a good selection of
readings and recitations. A committee appointed to arrange for a necktie social.

March
Tuesday 11
1873
Was at pretty much the same kind of work as yesterday. Had a fall of snow last night, it was
somewhat resuscitated the sleighing. J. C. Snell called and took mother and Elsie up home with
him for a couple of days at quilting. Spent evening reading exciting news from Ottawa
Parliament now in session.
March
Wednesday 12
1873
A fine bright day but not thawing very fast. The livestock needs a great deal of attention at this
season of the year especially sheep. There are a great number of Auction Sales of Farm Stock
this Spring, several farmers are giving up the business and trying to find easier and more
renumerative employment.

March
Thursday 13
1873
Spent most of the day sawing and splitting firewood, drove up to J.C. Snell for mother. Had a
visit from Mr. and Mrs. James Thompson, 4thLine East., afternoon and evening, he is a shrewd
common sense Englishman and can keep up conversation without any difficulty and very
intelligently. A beautiful moonlight night calm and serene.

March
Friday 14
1873
Killed and dressed a 9 month old Berkshire sow, made 195 lbs. of pork. Father and Mother
drove in the cutter down to Toronto Township to visit Aleck and his little daughter, Mary
Eugenie, they took tea with them at Miss Buldock’s. Spent evening at Choir Practice, Mr.
Samuel Marshall was helping us to sing. Received a letter from R. Crawford.

March
Saturday 15
1873
Rain fell in considerable quantities last night and today, the sleighing to Brampton is about gone
the waggons are running freely, sold to K.C. & Co. the pork @ $5.75 per cut, bought 1 ½ bush
of timothy @ $4.00 per bush. Sent in a registered letter to Mr. R. Knight of Milton $14.00 for
“Henry Clay’s” services.

March
Sunday 16
1873
Very high west wind all last night and this morning. Went to S. School at 9:30 a.m. Supt pres a
very slim attendance of scholars, lesson, Genesis XXVII, 30 to 40th “Jacob and Esau”. Spent
afternoon reading the “Guardian” and a S. School library, Heard Rev. J. G. Scott preach tonight
in Brampton, text, Numbers XXIII, letter clause of 10th verse.

March
Monday 17
1873
Was at the wood business all day. J. C. Snell and family were here this afternoon and took
tea. Received from R. Smith M. P. a copy of the Official Statistical returns for each Municipality
in Ontario. From R. Crawford two copies of “the Oshawa, Ontario Reformer”. Spent the evening
at the Lodge, one initiated, Chronicle by G. H. Golding.

March
Tuesday 18
1873
A mild day, soft snow from the East all afternoon. Finished the buck sawing of the green wood
and have the wood shed nearly full of piled, split stovewood, 3 cords of dry wood outside. Spent
the evening reading yesterday’s “Globe” the Parliamentary Reports are very interesting, both
the Dominion and Local Houses are now in session.

March
Wednesday 19
1873
Drove to Brampton this morning with the spring waggon, the sleighing on the Centre Road is all
gone and plenty of mud remains, bought $1.00 worth of various small articles. Spent afternoon
constructing an Aeolian harp, made of waxed silk thread stretched tightly over a surrounding
board to be placed in the draft of a window.

March
Thursday 20
1873
Rain and snow falling all day. Was fanning and measuring oats, put up 20 bush for seed (black
oats) and the rest 70 bush for feeding horses. Viney had a small quilting bee, three young
ladies, Misses Susie Campbell, Maggie Sewell and Hannah Gummelson, all residents of No. 10
and close vicinity.

March
Friday 21
1873
A general meeting of Reformers of this county was held in Brampton today for the purpose of
raising money for to defray the expenses of their candidates at general elections and to assist
R. Smith M. P. in a suit pending against him protesting his lawful election to represent this
County in Dominion Parliament. They got about $1,000.00 and will get a deal more yet.

March
Saturday 22
1873
Was at Brampton last night on horseback and dropped a letter in Post Office containing a few
select pieces of poetry for the editress of “Safeguard Chronicle” and for insertion therein. Was
engaged today in training our young horses and other job work. Was at “Willow Lodge” an hour
on special business, they have 80 young lambs, we have 15.

March
Sunday 23
1873
Drove sleigh to S. School this morning. Supt. And Sec. pres. Lesson Genesis XXVIII, 10 to 22,
“Jacob at Bethel”, a large attendance of scholars, the S. School Advocate distributed. J.C. Snell
and family were here for tea. Heard Rev. J. G. Scott preach tonight at Brampton, text, Psalm the
1st. A most eloquent and impressive sermon.

March
Monday 24
1873
Spent the day in splitting dry stove wood. Some strange dogs prowling around the sheep-house.
I fired at them twice and wounded two of them slightly. Spent the evening at the Lodge (“Safe
Guardian Chronicle” by Bro. J. E. Starr) and at a select Choir practice for the Neck Tie social
tomorrow night.

March
Tuesday 25
1873
A cold N.N. E. storm set in at midnight yesternight and snow is falling lightly all day. Drove the
sleigh down to Brampton tonight-taking a full load of the No 10 young folks to Neck Tie Social.
Had a very fair attendance, speeches and readings by Rev. G. Scott, Dr. C.T. Moore , R. W.

Craig, J. E. Starr and G. H. Golding and music by a Choir of 3 ladies and 3 Gents including
myself.

March
Wednesday 26
1873
Each lady brought a necktie for an admission fee, the men paying a double charge of 20 cts.
And were entitled to draw a necktie it created considerable merriment. The storm has not yet
abated, this is the third night, snowing and blowing from N. and very cold. Drove my sisters to
day school and home again. Was reading “The Life and Labours of Mr. Brassey the great
contractor”.

March
Thursday 27
1873
Last night was fearfully stormy and cold. The side roads are almost impassable, drifts of snow 5
ft high right across the road. Made two trips to the school house in the sleigh by driving close to
the fences. Completed the stove wood cutting and splitting have about 16 cords all ready for
use.

March
Friday 28
1873
A bright beautiful day. Our folks drove to Brampton, father sat for his photograph at J. W.
Cole’s. Spent most of the day caring for the livestock, have 19 lambs. Went to Choir Practice
tonight part of the P.M. Choir was there and helped use to sing. Received a letter from Mrs. E.
Ferguson of Toronto.

March
Saturday 29
1873
A drizzling rain all day from the East. Father, mother and all the little folks drove up to J. C.
Snell’s and spent the day this being little Mary’s fourth birthday. Commenced work on the patent
fence for the front lane, it is put together like so many gates. Proceeds of Neck Tie Social after
paying all expenses $3.00.

March
Sunday 30
1873
Drove the sleigh up to S. School Supt. And Sec. Treas. Present, lesson A Review of all the
subjects and Golden Texts for the past Quarterly Reference. Rom XV, 4th, Heard Mr. C.
Watson a local preacher at Zion at 2:30 text, I Peter II, 9th, A sermon against the fashionable
sermonizing of the present day.

March

Monday 31

1873

Docked the tails of 17 of the young lambs, they appear to be thriving well. Was working at the
hurdle fence. Drove the light waggon to Brampton tonight the roads are very muddy, spent
evening at the Lodge, a large attendance and lively meeting “Chronicle” by Sr. J. C. Morton and
comic reading by 3 of the brethren.

April
Tuesday 1
1873
A fine warm day, but an East rain storm set in this evening. The ground is nearly covered with
snow yet around the fences and in lanes there are huge drifts. Was working in driving house all
day making pine lumber hurdles. Spent evening reading Mayne’s “History of British Columbia
and Vancouver Island”, one of the Institute library.

April
Wednesday 2
1873
Was engaged in picking over the “Garnet Chili” potatoes in driving house cellar, nearly all sound
and in good keeping condition. Tried my hand at shooting crows killed two at one shot at a
distance of 40 ft, they are very plentiful this spring also very bold about coming close to human
habitations

April
Thursday 3
1873
Finished the job we commenced yesterday. It is thawing pretty fast these days. The winter
wheat has escaped putting well except the high ground which is somewhat scorched by the
bitter frosts. Father went to Brampton and got his photos one large size, 6 X 8 inches in a neat
oval frame, worth $2.00.

April
Friday 4
1873
Spent the day making the hurdles, made 9 and several braces. Went to Brampton tonight and to
Choir Practice. The “Etobicoke” is breaking. The ice being heaved up and impeding its course.
Received a letter from R. R. Knight stating that he had received the money all right and
enclosed a receipt.

April
Saturday 5
1873
Had some heavy thunder last night and today heavy rain and hail. Was cutting away snow and
ice in the drains to let the standing water off the fall wheat. The “Casket” comes to hand this
week improved in style and original matter and the commencement of a splendid Temperance
Tale Time will Tell”

April

Sunday 6

1873

The roads being very bad and the rain falling steadily, I did not go to S. School, the lesson is in
Genesis XXXII 24 to 30 “Jacob’s new name Israel”, The weather cleared at noon and became
quite warm, Rode on horseback up to J. C. Snell’s this afternoon. Did not go to church tonight—
every appearance of a wet night.

April
Monday 7
1873
Spent forenoon at “Campbell’s” blacksmith’s shop getting “Charlie” shod on fore feet and getting
half a dozen pig rings manufactured. Spent evening at the Lodge Chronicle by G. H. Golding
and a long programme of readings and songs by several of the members. It is raining briskly all
night.

April
Tuesday 8
1873
It has rained steadily all day but rather too cold to thaw fast the snow is slowly disappearing.
Received a letter last night from Aunt Jennie Harrington and a “Carthage Banner”. My cousin
Johnny Harrington was married lately, he is only just 20 years of age.

April
Wednesday 9
1873
Rain has continued to fall steadily all last night and all today but it has cleared this evening. Old
Peter McTavish died this evening he is a wise veteran school teacher of over 30 years standing,
a good sound Scotch Presbyterian and a thorough Reformer in politics, he died at the advanced
age of 64 years.

April
Thursday 10
1873
Our women folks are busy at the semi-annual job of house cleaning, spent most of yesterday
and today putting on wall paper and white washing, there is quite a knack in doing that kind of
business and requires considerable practice to do it neatly. Sold to Crawforth the butcher the 3
yr old Short Horn heifer “Carrie” @ $50.00.
Was at the same work as yesterday. The days are warm and very frosty nights.

April
Friday 11
1873
Pretty generally kept as a holiday the stores in Brampton were all closed but a good many in the
farming community kept on a work as usual. Mr. McTavish’s funeral took place today, was
buried at Ebenezer. Spent the evening at Primitive Methodist Choir practice, their leader S.H.
Marshall is a good singer.

April

Saturday 12

1873

Received a letter last night from Uncle Taylor of Oakville, he is building a new harness shop.
Finished making the parts of the patent fence. Spent evening at Mr. R. Nichols, No. 10 with a
few young folks, a farewell visit to his son R. J. Nichols who is going on Monday to Chicago.

April
Sunday 13
1873
Drove spring waggon (sic) up to the S. School with all my sisters. Supt and Sec. Treas. Were
present , lesson Genesis XXXVII, 3 to 11 “Joseph’s Dreams”. Drove to J. C. Snells for dinner
then horse for afternoon with R.J. Nichols. Heard Rev. J.G. Scott in Brampton tonight textPhilippians III 10th. An able sermon of an hour’s length.

April
Monday 14
1873
Was engaged at docking and trimming the sheep, the young lambs (21) are doing well. Some
farmers have started to plow sod, the ground is drying very fast. Spent evening at “Mechanics”
Reunion in New Music Hall, Brampton, the music and readings were all by Bramptonians had a
fine new piano belonging to the “Institute”. Dr. Hegge was one of the singers.
893
April
Tuesday 15
1873
Clear beautiful weather with a cool North wind, slight frosts at night. Inserted a prepared and
sharpened horse shoe nail through the top grisle of each of our Berkshire snouts to prevent
them from rooting. Took 7 bags of barley, oats and peas to J. W. Main’s Mill for chopping.

April
Wednesday 16
1873
Commenced plowing sod today with one team and iron plow in the field next David Wiggins and
fronting the Centre Road, it is in very fair order for plowing. Plowed three quarters of an acre.
Had the sheep and young lambs out in the field for a while and a lively time they had of it.

April
Thursday 17
1873
Another East storm of rain and some snow, it has put back the seeding time nearly a week. Was
shovelling drains and letting water off the plowed land, it is now very wet. Viney is improving
rapidly at playing the melodeon, she has a natural talent for music.

April
Friday 18
1873
Sowed 800 lbs of grey barrelled plaster on the meadow (across the Etobicoke) the young grass
has come through the winter pretty safely. Spent evening at Choir Practice. Brought home both
packets full of newspapers from Post among them “The People’s Press” from Carthage,
containing a sermon by Rev. De Witt Talmage of New York on Corruption in High places.

“ The Best Way of Applying Plaster”, The Cultivator and Country Gentleman, May 14, 1868

April
Saturday 19
1873
Yesterday was my twenty second birthday. The weather is cold and damp and nearly every
person you meet has a severe cold. Tried the plowing again but have given it up, the ground is
not in order yet. Sowed clover and timothy on the “Treadwell” fall wheat ground sowed 8 lbs
clover and 6 lbs timothy per acre. Received a letter from Aunt Mary Mason.

April
Sunday 20
1873
Walked to S. School this morning. Supt. Abs. Sec. Treas. Pres. , Mr. A. Woodhall addressed the
School on the lesson Genesis XXXVII 23 to 28, “Joseph Sold by his Brothers”. Spent the
afternoon reading a very interesting story of the Jewish Captivity, a S.S. Library book. Heard
Rev. John Shaw preach tonight in Brampton text Isaiah II 10 th and 13th

April
Monday 21
1873
Plowed about an acre of sod today. Sold to John Pleraig a 6 months old Berkshire boar @
$11.50. Spent this evening in Brampton at Safe Guard Lodge had several readings and songs
by the brethren, Miss Mary Ellen Bunting and Viney each sang a song. About 4 inches of snow
fell this evening.

April
Tuesday 22
1873
Had frost last night and this morning has quite a wintry appearance. Was repairing the soft
water cistern, part of the brick wall having caved in by the action of the frost. Was washing the
apple trees with soap suds for to destroy the bark lice.

April
Wednesday 23
1873
The C. P. A. Society held their Annual Spring Show of Short Horn bulls and improved stallions
in quality and quantity the show was fully up to former years. Spent evening at the T.O.O.
Fellows Concert and Readings, Miss Payne and Miss Freeman are both first class singers also
Pr. H. M. Scott, Mr. Geo. Mutton is one of the best readers I ever heard. The Concert Hall was
crowded.

April
Thursday 24
1873
Plowed over an acre of sod today. The weather is cold and very backward, no growth yet and
the ground dries slowly. J. Snell & sons all the first prizes yesterday in the Short Horn classes.

There were some very handsome horses shown. Wrote a letter to Aunt Jennie and will mail it
tomorrow.

April
Friday 25
1873
Sowed 12 bush of Mammoth spring wheat on 6 acres of ground, the ground is not so dry as it
appears to be, gave it one stroke over with harrow and left it for the present. Spent evening at
Choir practice. Had a call from J. R. Craig, he complimented us on the fine condition our stock
were in.

April
Saturday 26
1873
Was plowing sod all day¸it is getting dry and pretty stiff. Received from J. Crawforth the
remainder of the beef money $30.00. Paid to K.C. & Co. on acc/ $15.00

April
Sunday 27
1873
Drove to Brampton to the 4th Quarterly Meeting of the ecclesiastical year, Rev. J. G. Scott
preached text, Psalm LXV 5th verse. The love feast after the sermon the Holy Spirit seemed to
rest down upon the people with great power and many spoke for the Master. Heard Rev. T. P
Bradshaw preach in W. M. Church tonight-text I John 1 Chap and 2nd verse.

April
Monday 28
1873
Finished harrowing and furrowing the spring wheat field and seeded with 8 lb of clover and 6 of
timothy per acre. Father was at Amaranth at the meeting of the Quarterly Board. Spent evening
at the Lodge, one initiated, election of officers for next term, I was re-elected , J. J. Bunting to
Worthy Chief Templar.

April
Tuesday 29
1873
Was sowing black oats, put 15 ½ bush on 5 acres of ground on “the other place” the ground is
still very soft in the lowest places. Was also cultivating for barley. Sowed in the garden a
teaspoonful of California spring wheat, it is a beautiful sample as bright in the color as the fall
wheat. Received from Uncle Adam in St. Joe two newspapers and a card of his business.

April
Wednesday 30
1873
Was hard at work all day cultivating and plowing. We received the trees ordered by the agent
from Guelph Nursery, 6 mountain ash, 6 scarlet maple, 7 apple trees of various kinds, 2 rose
bushes and a snow ball, in all costing $5.40. Planted the ornamental trees in the front lane and
a dozen chestnuts from the young stock growing in the garden.

May
Thursday 1
1873
Sowed 18 bush barley on 8 ¾ acres the ground is in splendid order and pulverizes finely under
the tickling influence of the harrow. The weather all the week has been very fine, the grass is
starting to grow and the buds are swelling. Sowed some garden seeds such as beets, lettuce,
parsnips, etc.

May
Friday 2
1873
A drizzling rain all day from the east, suspending seeding operations for the present Was sorting
over the early potatoes, have 9 bush Early Rose, 2 bush of Early Gooderich. Went to Brampton
tonight to the Post for the papers and be barbered by J. S. Woods.

May
Saturday 3
1873
Drove team and waggon over the to the 2nd line East to Mr. E. Hemphill’s swamp and brought
from thence about 25 young cedars, tamaracks pines and balsams, planted them in front door
yard and in the lane. About the first of June is generally thought to be the proper time to
transplant evergreens, but we tried this as an experiment. There is some snow and frost in the
swamp yet.

May
Sunday 4
1873
Went to S. School , Supt. And Sec. Treas. Pres. Lesson, Genesis XLI 37549, “Josehp Exalted”.
Our folks went to funeral of Old Mrs. Thomas Modeland, our grand aunt Ann, she died on the
1st, was buried at Harrison’s church, sermon by Rev. J.G. Scott, Heard Rev. W. Joliffe of
Streetsville preach in Brampton tonight, text, Nehmiah VII chap. 2nd

May
Monday 5
1873
Plowed nearly 1 ½ acres of sod today, the ground works nicely, the plow running much lighter
than heretofore. Spent evening at the Lodge, “Chronicle” by Bro. H. Dawson, the Officers for the
current quarter were installed Rev. J. Shant. T. Deputy.

May
Tuesday 6
1873
Completed the sod plowing, 8 acres. Sowed about half of the peas. Was rolling the fall wheat in
front field, it promises a very uneven crop, and some large patches being entirely nude of
wheat. Had a visit from Mrs. John Raine and Mrs. J. A. Modeland. The weather is clear and fine.

May
Wednesday 7 1873
Finished the pea sowing, put 24 bush of peas, 18 of “crown” peas and 6 of “Golden Vine” on
scarcely 8 acres. Sowed 11 drills of white carrots, 44 rods long in front field of “other place”, the
ground is rich being well manured last fall. Mrs. E. Grafton of Chicago has come to Brampton
with her baby son, he is very sick and not expected to live.

May
Thursday 8
1873
Finished seeding today except one field to roll yet but the sowing and harrowing are completed.
Rained nearly all day from East with high wind a cold one. The spring wheat is up and green,
the grass grows slowly the weather not being warm enough yet. The last lamb of the season
came to town on Tuesday last—22 in all.

May
Friday 9
1873
Sold 4 bush of Early Rose and White Potatoes. Was trimming out the large willows and planting
the largest limbs which generally grow by being stuck in the ground. Set up the patent fence in
the lane, it looks neat and will protect the trees. Spent evening at Choir Practice.

May
Saturday 10
1873
Drove up to J. Snell and Sons and brought from their woods near the lake, 25 thrifty young
maples, one half sugar and rest soft maples, planted along the front of the lot, Father bought at
R.H. Lewis’ Sale a new buggy @ $99.00 at 6 month’s credit.

May
Sunday 11
1873
Drove spring waggon up to S. School Supt. And Sec. Treas. pres, lesson XVII 29 to 38, “The
Report from Egypt”. Spent afternoon at home reading and writing Temperance matter. Had a
call from two cousins Chris Fox and Janice Faux. Heard Rev. J. G. Scott preach in Brampton
tonight text, Job XIX 25th A very able sermon. A wet evening.

May
Monday 12
1873
Took another jaunt after maple trees to J. Snell’s, brought home 19 and planted along the front
fence. Planted a few Early Rose potatoes in the garden. Spent evening at the Lodge, a good
attendance. Chronicle by the T.Sec. was well received by the brothers and sisters. Got home
our new buggy, it is neat and stylish.

May

Tuesday 13

1873

Was building the line fence across the Etobicoke between our neighbors on either side and
repairing other fences. Drove to Brampton with Old Alex Campbell’s furniture and bedding. He
and Lizzie Grafton are setting up in a house for the summer. Bought at Wilkinson’s store 1
rowdie drab hat @&1.75 and 1 pr course shoes @$1.60, neck tie @ 50 cts.

May
Wednesday 14
1873
Was working and trimming among the flower beds and in the garden Mr. John Snell, Mr. & Mrs.
J.E. Snell and the little folks were all down here for dinner and tea, it being the anniversary of
their wedding day, 5 years ago. The weather keeps cold and frosty nights. The grass grows
slowly.

May
Thursday 15,
1873
Was rolling the meadows and the peas, they are sprouted and just coming up. Father and J.G.
Snell were planting trees (maple) at Zion Church and fixing up the surroundings. Received from
Carthage a copy of Carthage Banner, and the Banner of Light.

May
Friday 16
1873
Finished rolling the meadow and barley ground. Was picking stones off the little orchard,
seeded it down with clover and orchard grass. Drove single buggy down to Derry West this
evening to visit a Good Templar Lodge recently organized, there were sixteen of us down from
Brampton Lodge, had readings and music. Got home at 12:30 o’clock.

May
Saturday 17
1873
Commenced the heaviest job of farm labor, hauling barn yard manure to “other place” on root
ground, hauled 16 loads. The surveyors of Credit Valley Railway are at work, they cut through
the back of our 25 acre lot, through the best hardwood part of the bush.

May
Sunday 18
1873
Spent forenoon at S. School Supt and Sec. pres., lesson Genesis XLV 1 to 8, “Joseph makes
himself known”. J. C. Snell read an eloquent and affecting address to Mr. & Mrs. R. Thompson,
who are about moving away, they have been connected with the School nearly 20 years. Heard
Rev. J.G. Scott preach in Brampton tonight text, Luke XV, 2ndverse.

May
Monday 19
1873
Completed the manure hauling on the root ground, put 28 loads of 2 ¾ acres. The weather is
dry and not very warm for the season. Drove new buggy down to Brampton tonight, and spent

evening at the Lodge, one initiated. Chronicle by Bro. G. H. Golding, and several comic
readings by other members.

May
Tuesday 20
1873
Was preparing the ground for potato planting, and started to plant them. 6 bush Early Rose &
Goodrich, 6 bush of Garnet Chili, plow them in dropping the potatoes in every third furrow.
Spent evening reading the Temperance Star, an English weekly.

May
Wednesday 21
1873
Was working at the root ground all day, the greater part of it works up finely. Sold to J. Woodhall
$3.50 worth of eggs and poultry, and a first class sheepskin @ $1.75. He makes a business
buying of the neighbors and taking the stuff to Toronto.

May
Thursday 22
1873
Spent the day plowing the turnip land and washing the sheep (27) in all, the Etobicoke was very
warm, and scarcely 2 ft deep, it is hard to wash clean the wool when the water is so shallow.
Spent evening and staid all night at J.C. Snell’s.

May
Friday 23
1873
Completed the plowing of the turnip ground. Took a glance at the survey of the Credit Valley R.
Road, as it passes through our bush, it will take a strip of woods 5 rods wide off the back of the
lot. Spent evening at Choir Practice. Mailed a copy of Peel Banner to Aunt Jennie Harrington.

May
Saturday 24
1873
Kept as public holiday by the greater part of the community. Was working this forenoon, but
after dinner, Viney and I drove up to J. C. Snell’s, had a social chat for 3 hours, after tea we
drove around by Brampton on to home. Aunt Phoebe Burke and her son Willie came this
evening on a visit from Scarborough.

May
Sunday 25
1873
Spent forenoon at S. School Supt. Abs., Sec, pres. Lesson Genesis XLV, 19 to 28, “Israel in
Egypt”. Mr. A. Woodhall addressed the school on the lesson. Heard Rev. John Shaw preach in
Brampton tonight text, Revelation III, 20th verse. Yesterday and today were exceedingly warm,
and the growth of vegetation very rapid.

May
Monday 26
1873
Aunt Phoebe and Willie Burke started for home this morning they took cars by Toronto and
thence by Nippissing railway. Was at the sheep shearing today. Spent evening at Lodge, we
were visited by a large number of members of Derry Star Temple had a good programme of
readings and songs. Chronicle by Bro. Duggan.

May
Tuesday 27
1873
Finished shearing the sheep (26 in all), will average or little more than 8 lbs each fleece, it is
clean and good quality. It requires considerable practice to make a good shearer and to do it
quickly. The plum, cherries and pears are in full bloom this is by far the prettiest season of the
year. The weather is dry and sultry.

May
Wednesday 28 1873
Drove two horse waggon over to 7th line East and brought home a load of evergreens, pine,
cedar and spruce, planted the best of them in the lane, and the rest in the evergreen hedge on
the North side of small orchard. They are healthy, thrifty trees growing in open, dry land. Sold 2
fat sheep to Joe Smith butcher for $7.00.

May
Thursday 29
1873
Had an early walk this morning up to Willow Lodge on special business. Commenced doing the
statute labor on the roads, we have 9 days eight hours long to put in. Lizzie Grafton’s baby was
buried today in Brampton Cemetery, aged 5 months. The first shower of rain for 17 days took
place today.
May
Friday 30
1873
Road work continued through the entire day, this afternoon hauling gravel and repairing the
gravel road below No. 10. Mr. M. Gummerson is path-master it is tiresome work shovelling all
day and more especially on the public roads. Was at Brampton an hour this evening, had
scarcely any practice, Mr. Perry was absent.

May
Saturday 31
1873
Completed the road work, put in 9 days, had the team on working two whole days. The heavy
road scraper makes the road very smooth and level, it will be capital wheeling for some time.
Spent evening writing the Safe Guard Chronicle. Have had white frost the past two nights.

June

Sunday 1

1873

Spent forenoon at S. School Supt. and Sec. pres. Lesson, Gen XLVII chap, “Israel in Egypt” The
History of Joseph is one of the most interesting and affecting of all the Bible stories. Miss Jennie
Peacock spent afternoon here. Heard Mr. James Goderham preached in Brampton tonight text I
Cor III chap, 22nd verse. He is a local preacher from Streetsville.

June
Monday 2
1873
Was engaged a drawing barn yard manure on back field of the other place. Received a letter
from Aunt Jennie Harrington giving a glowing account of the appearance and prospects of
Carthage. Spent evening at the Lodge. A slim attendance, Chronicle by F. S. readings and
songs, two of each for members.

June
Tuesday 3
1873
Exchanged our old “Grover & Baker” sewing machine with M. Treadgold for an “Osborn” with all
the late improvements to give $23.00 to boot. Spent afternoon dipping the lambs in a
preparation of ½ lb arsenic and 6 pails of soft water for to kill the ticks. Was at J. Simpson’s bee
for raising his new patent barn, 45 X 60 ft, 45 ft from the ground to the peak of the roof.
McIlwraith, Looking for Old Ontario, barn design p. 177
June
Wednesday 4 1873
Was manure hauling into the summer fallow all day, this job is certainly the hardest and
disagreeable of all farm work, but to neglect it would soon bring the farm to poverty. J.C. Snell
and were here this evening, Jennie and the children are going to stay a day or two.

June
Thursday 5
1873
At the same work as yesterday. We have had no hot weather yet, a cool north wind nearly every
day, except light showers no rain, the spring grain is looking dry and parched. Our folks spent
evening at R. Smith’s M.P.

June
Friday 6
1873
Completed the job of yesterday have hauled nearly 50 loads putting it on the poorest part of the
field. Drove Jennie Snell and her babies up home and thence to Brampton, was at the Primitive
Choir practice tonight, Mr. S. H. Marshall then leader is an accomplished player.

June
Saturday 7
1873
Spent forenoon spreading manure on the fallow, spent afternoon at Brampton seeing a
Lacrosse Match between the Toronto club and the Bramptonians, a good game and well
contested but the latter were eventually the winners of the match.

June
Sunday 8
1873
Was at S. School this morning, Supt. and Sec. pre. Lesson, Genesis XLVII, 1 to 70 verses subj
“Jacob and Pharaoh”. Spent afternoon reading and at music. Heard Mr. J. Walker (“local
preacher“) in Brampton tonight, text, Colossians chap and 27th verse.

June
Monday 9
1873
Spent the day working up the turnip ground thoroughly, going over it five times, rolling cultivating
and harrowing. Spent evening at the Lodge, two initiated, Chronicle by Bro.W. Dawson, the
attendance of members during the summer months is rather slim.

June
Tuesday 10
1873
Commenced plowing the fallow it will be a serious job, it is dry and hard, considerable clover on
one half of it. Received a St. Joseph daily paper from Uncle Adam containing an account of the
Opening of a great bridge across the river Missouri at that city. Hired for 3 months “$5.00 per
month of James O`Brien, an Irish Catholic 40 years of age and an old soldier.

June
Wednesday 11
1873
Our hired man started work this morning. Was drilling and sowing the turnips; 2 ¼ acres 4 ½ lbs
of seed (Scurvinge’s Improved) the ground is pretty rich but rather bumpy in some places. Had
a light shower of rain yesterday.

June
Thursday 12
1873
Was plowing all day at the fallow, Jimmie buried a large rock. Had a visit from Mr. Treadgold,
the sewing machine agent, he is a friendly talkative Englishman and understands his business
well.

June
Friday 13
1873
At the same work as yesterday. Jonathan Pearen was drowned this afternoon in the river Credit
while bathing, either by taking cramps or by an affection of the heart, the water is 15 ft deep.
Aged 30 yrs., leaves a wife and two children to mourn his loss. Spent evening at Choir Practice.
Received a St. Joe paper from Uncle Adam.

June

Saturday 14

1873

At the plowing again today, the ground is getting harder every day and the weather getting
hotter and dryer. The fall wheat is just shooting out in head and the clover blossoms just
appearing. Bought last evening from Ambrose and Bannister “J.G.Carpenter’s Reader and
Reciter” @ $1.00.

June
Sunday 15
1873
Drove spring waggon over to Mr. Joseph Pearen’s this morning, 4th line west, No. 6 to attend
his son Jonathan’s funeral which took place at 1 o’clock. Rev. John Shaw preached text Amos
IV, chap 12th verse, a very large attendance at the funeral. Heard Rev. Mr. Brown preach in
Brampton tonight text Ezch. XXXIII, 9 verses.

June
Monday 16
1873
Was working all day in “other place” bush, splitting stakes out of lying white oak timber. The
warmest day yet this summer spent evening at an Open meeting of the Lodge in the vestry of
W.M. Church. Had select readings and excellent music principally by the members, not a very
large attendance.

June
Tuesday 17
1873
Was splitting stakes in the lower bush from rock elm and slippery elm the former is rather tough
splitting but are good stakes, the latter splits easily and are not worth much the timber being too
soft. Dry weather prevails.

June
Wednesday 18
1873
Recommenced plowing operations turned over nearly 1 ½ acres. R. Smith, M.P. had a mass
meeting of Reformers in the “Chisolm Hall” and gave them a satisfactory account of his doings
in Ottawa.

June
Thursday 19
1873
The warmest day we have had this year as yet, the mercury up to 90° in the shade. Was
plowing all day, warm work for the team and very dusty. Our folks were visiting our new
neighbour on the Bunting farm, Mr. R. Armstrong.

June
Friday 20
1873
Sold our clip of wool to K. C. & Co. 265 lbs @ 36 cts per lb= $95.40. Finished splitting the elm
stakes, 190 in number if the toughness of timber be any virtue against decay, these will last a

long time. Spent evening at Brampton bought a copy of the “Favorite” an illustrated magazine
published at Montreal.

June
Saturday 21
1873
Spent this afternoon at a picnic in Mr. R. Lowe’s bush at Brampton, given for the scholars of the
High school and for those that were scholars in days gone by. The time passed gaily and
pleasantly with croquet and other games.

June
Sunday 22
1873
Spent forenoon at S.School Supt and Sec pres. lesson-Genesis I chap 15 to 26 subject “The
last days of Joseph`, very busy all afternoon selecting and writing pieces for the “Chronicle”.
Heard Rev. John Shaw preach in Brampton tonight, text-Hebrews II, 3rd verse. “How shall we
escape if we neglect so great salvation.”

June
Monday 23
1873
At the plowing all day. Our folks drove over to Mr. James Thompson’s on a visit 4th line East.
Threatening to rain all day a slight shower tonight. Spent evening at the Lodge small attendance
because of the rain, Chronicle by the Financial Secretary.

June
Tuesday 24
1873
Completed the first plowing of the fallow, a long and weary job it has been, took considerable
care in the plowing and it looks well after it is finished. Was over to Mr. George Bell’s early this
morning on business. Spent evening at No. 10 playing a game of ball with old friends and
associates. The rain of last night has refreshed Nature some but needs a great deal more.

June
Wednesday 25
1873
Was harrowing the fallow. Had a visit from Dawson Modeland, now living in Brussels, a small
town near Goderich, on the H.W. B. Railway had a good long chat with him on old times and
various other topics.

June
Thursday 26
1873
Sowed another pound of turnip seed on the carrot ground, they having not come up, we
cultivated the ground and sowed to turnips yesterday. Was rolling the fallow today it is very dry
and dusty. Received a letter from Tom Mason and his picture enclosed.

June
Friday 27
1873
Was moving with the scythe some grass in the fence corners around the grain fields, and
grinding the mower knives and getting the machine in running order. Bought at Wilkinson’s a
dark green silk umbrella @ $3.00, a white cotton coat @ $3.00, pair linen pants @ $1.00.

June
Saturday 28
1873
All the family except Viney and I started on a trip to Oakville at 4:30 a.m. in the spring waggon,
they are going to spend two or three days at Uncle Taylor’s. The weather is very warm the
mercury up to 90° in the shade. Was hay making on a small scale around the fences.

June
Sunday 29
1873
Spent forenoon at S. School Supt and Sec pre, lesson, a Review of all the lessons during the
past Quarter, all except the first, on the history and life of Joseph. Heard Rev John Shaw preach
his farewell sermon in Brampton tonight, ext, Mark VIII chap B6 and 37 verses, he is stationed
to preach in Toronto for the next year.

June
Monday 30
1873
The long and earnestly looked for rain came at last at 1 o’clock this morning in a heavy thunder
shower, rained all forenoon and everything is swimming, all nature is refreshed and gladdened.
Our folks came home tonight from Oakville, bringing 18 quts of strawberries and a quantity of
plants and flowers.

July
Tuesday 1
1873
Took a walk early this morning to J.C. Snell’s with a basket of strawberries. Viney and I drove to
Brampton to see a Lacrosse Match between the Indians and the Bramptonians, resulted in a
complete victory for the latter. There were horse races on the new race course, which attracted
a great concourse of people.

July
Wednesday 2
1873
Our hired man John Graham started work today, engaged for 1 ½ months for $40. Was mowing
with the scythe the orchard grass, it’s ripe for seed and rather hard cutting. Slight westerly
showers through the day.

July

Thursday 3

1873

Started cutting with the mower across the creek, cut about 2 acres mostly wire grass, will not
make first class hay. Was binding the orchard grass into sheaves for convenience in handling
and threshing.
,
July
Friday 4
1873
Was mowing in the orchard field, very short and light. Was tilling up the potatoes with the plow,
the tops have attained a great growth. The turnips are coming up slowly. The oats are just
shooting out. The peas are in full blossom.

July
Saturday 5
1873
Hauled in two loads of hay from across the Etobicoke. Had the mower running again today,
have fully 9 acres cut. Drew in the orchard grass sheaves. Received from D. Modeland a postal
card apprising me of his arrival in Brussels. Miss Alma Ferguson from Toronto is here on a visit.

July
Sunday 6
1873
Spent forenoon at S. School Supt and Sec pre, lesson Matt II, 1 to 10, “The Child Jesus”, the
next two quarter’s lessons will be in Matt. Heard Rev. Benj. Sherlock of Campbell’s Cross
preach in Brampton tonight text Rev. XXI 1st verse. Quite cool today and this evening.

July
Monday 7
1873
Kept the mower busily employed all day, cut nearly 9 acres. Hauled in 4 loads of hay, rather
green and heavy but will take no harm as it is distributed over all the mows. Spent evening at
the Lodge. Chronicle by Bro. G.H. Golding, the attendance was small and the meeting soon
brought to a close. mows: the upper level storage area in the barn.

July
Tuesday 8
1873
Was mowing the greater part of the day, it being a longer job this year than the drawing in, there
are some part of the meadow over the creek that are very heavy and considerably lodged.
Have about 10 loads now under cover. Very cool this evening, prospects are for dry weather.

July
Wednesday 9 1873
Had a six mile walk to “Green Grove Farm” this morning the residence of Mr. John R. Craig, on
important business matters. Completed the mowing for this season. Hauled in 4 loads of hay
and done a good deal of horse-raking and swath raking.

July
Thursday 10
1873
Drew in a load of hay shortly after 5 o’clock this morning, have 15 loads saved. Quite a change
in the weather suddenly started raining early this morning and fell in large quantities during the
day. Was threshing orchard grass seed with the flail, threshed 4 bush. Mailed a letter to Aunt
Jennie Harrington. Received a note of invitation to picnic at P. Credit from Mr. J.A. Morton

July
Friday 11
1873
Spent forenoon at Brampton in transacting business of various kinds and brought home a buggy
load of groceries &,&, Was horse raking and cocking hay all afternoon until 9 o’clock at night.
Sold to C.V. R. Company a strip of land 4 rods wide on the back end of “other place” @ $48.00
per acre, signed an agreement of bargain to that effect.

July
Saturday 12
1873
Was up this morning shortly after 4 o’clock and immediately started hauling hay from across the
creek. J. Learment and team & hired boy was helping us all day, brought in 15 loads, not quite
so good quality as the other hay because of the rain, but is still passable.

July
Sunday 13
1873
Spent forenoon at S. School Supt. and Sec pre. lesson Matt II, 13 to 20, “The Flight into Egypt”,
Mr. J. P. craig was at S.S. He is a talented young man. Spent afternoon writing up the
Chronicle. J.C. Snell and family were here for tea. Heard Rev. J.G. Scott preach in Brampton
tonight, text Ezekiel XXXIII, 5th verse. A warm day.

July
Monday 14
1873
Finished the hay harvest this morning, just before a shower of rain, have rather more than 30
loads, mostly first class hay. Was horse hoeing the turnip crop, are growing nicely now. Spent
evening at the Lodge, the attendance slim because of “Dan Rice” great Show being in town.
Chronicle by the Bro. F. S. A very hot day.

July
Tuesday 15
1873
Commenced cross plowing the fallow yesterday afternoon, it is in prime order. Was picking the
Colorado potato bugs off the field potatoes, there are not a great many now, but they increase
rapidly, the crop is an excellent one. Mrs. Trueman, Sen, and Hattie Modeland came this
evening on a visit of a few days.

July

Wednesday 16 1873

Was cross plowing all day with two plows and teams, the fallow is in good heart and looks fresh
and strong. Viney paid her visit to our new neighbour Mr. Robert Armstrong and had a pleasant
afternoon.

July
Thursday 17
1873
A heavy shower early this morning and several heavy showers this evening. Had one team
plowing, started the job of thinning out the turnips, it is slow work, they are so thickly sown. A
very sultry day, the spring crops are making prodigious strides. Received a letter and paper
from D. Modeland.

July
Friday 18
1873
Spent the day in hoeing turnips, they are now growing rapidly. Drove Mrs. Trueman, Hattie and
Lulu Maine in spring waggon to Brampton this evening. Was at Choir Practice an hour.
Yesterday was the hottest day of the season the mercury rising to 104° in the shade.

July
Saturday 19
1873
Completed the fallow cross plowing. Went to Brampton and brought up old Mr. A. Campbell’s
boxes and things. Lizzie Grafton having gone back to Chicago again to live.

July
Sunday 20
1873
Went to S. School this morning Supt and Sec pres – lesson Matt III 13 to 17, “The Baptism of
Jesus Christ”, Rev. W. Burns, the new preacher was at Zion at 2 p.m. and gave them a good
sermon. Heard him preach tonight in Brampton, text-Colossians I, 27th and 28th verses.

July
Monday 21
1873
Commenced the harvest by reaping Diehl wheat in the front field, there are several large
patches of timothy where the wheat was winter killed, cut with the scythe the smaller ones and
will leave the larger to ripen for seed. Went to Lodge tonight the Chronicle by Bro. H.W.
Dawson.

July
Tuesday 22
1873
At the same work as yesterday have nearly half the field bound and cocked, it is very hard work
reaping, the bottom being full of green grass, and clogs the sickle knife. Killed a garter snake 2
ft long they are now a very scarce article in this country. The weather is very fine.

July
Wednesday 23 1873
Put in a very steady and hard day’s work at binding and finished the field, the appearance of the
field after the reaping is very peculiar scarcely any stubble to be seen the grass being so thick.
This evening is very hot consequently sleeping will be hard work.

July
Thursday 24
1873
Hauled in a large load of pine timothy hay out of the wheat field. Was thinning turnips the rest of
the day. The raspberry season is just at its height, and buggy loads of Brampton people are
seen daily passing to and fro to J. Snell’s lake and vicinity. Emma and Ella have been picking
berries one day.
The Reuben R. Sallows Digital Library
July
Friday 25
1873
Was horse hoeing the turnip crops and finished thinning them out, they are growing nicely and
promise a fair yield yet. Started reaping the 3 acre patch of Treadwell wheat, it is not evenly
ripened, is well filled a large plump grain. Received a letter from R. J. Nichols of Chicago.
July
Saturday 26
1873
Completed the Treadwell harvest and stoked it up. The weather is exceedingly warm, a great
deal of lightning and thunder but not enough rain. Jinnie and Clara Taylor from Oakville came
today on a visit of a week or two. Received a letter yesterday from Aunt Annie Ferguson of
Osborn, M.

July
Sunday 27
1873
Spent forenoon at S. School Supt and Sec. pres. lesson Matt IV 1 to 17, “The Temptations of
Jesus”. The Supt made the lesson very plain and instructive. Heard Rev. W. Burns preach in
Brampton tonight, text, Romans V 1st verse, a pointed and practical discourse.

July
Monday 28
1873
Was engaged at hauling in the Diehl wheat, had 9 loads it took up only a small space in the
barn for 10 acres of wheat, the sheaves being very short and small. Every appearance of heavy
rain this evening, but did not amount to much. Did not get down to the Lodge. Egerton Ferguson
came here on a visit.

July
Tuesday 29
1873
Cut with the grass scythes and bound and stoked the timothy that was left in the wheat field for
seed. Commenced reaping the barley, scarcely ripe, very short both in the heads and straw.

Received two Joplin papers from Uncle Thomas J. Harrington and “Chicago Tribune’ from E.W.
Grafton.

July
Wednesday 30 1873
Going over the turnips the second time hand-hoeing. The potato bugs are on the increase,
gathered and destroyed nearly a patent-pail-full. Finished cutting the barley and put some of the
ripest into the cocks. The weather is warm and dry.

July
Thursday 31
1873
Took to Brampton Steam Mill a grist of 12 bush of Diehl wheat which is the last of it, the granary
being entirely empty except 10 bush of oats. Hauled in the timothy and the rakings of wheat
stubble. The rasperries area plentiful crop this year.
August
Friday 1
1873
Separated the lambs from the ewes, there are 8 bucks and 13 ewe lambs, put them in the
meadow over the creek, in which the young clover is fresh and strong. Ran the scuffler through
the turnip drills for the third time. No more harvest operations this week, the grain ripens rather
slowly.

August
Saturday 2
1873
Had a heavy shower of rain this forenoon. Spent most of the day cutting thistles on the flats and
in the pastures also hauling stones off the fallow. Viney and Egerton went to Toronto, she is
going from there to Oakville on a two week visit for her health. Received a letter from Aunt
Jennie Harrington.

August
Sunday 3
1873
Quarterly Meeting this morning in Brampton, was all ready to go there when we discovered that
some dogs had worried 5 of our best lambs, 2 are dead, the others badly cut, too late for
meeting when the doctoring was finished. Heard Rev Mr. Burns preach tonight in Brampton text,
James, last verse in the epistle.

August
Monday 4
1873
Brought in the remainder of the Treadwell wheat, 4 loads in all, also drew in 7 loads of barley,
the grain is in fine order now. Had a call this evening from Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Main. Spent
evening at the lodge. Officers for the current quarter were installed.

August
Tuesday 5
1873
Early yesterday morning sold to T. Crawforth 2 of the lambs that were worried by the dogs @
$3.00 each, dressed another one for our own use. Finished hauling in the barley, 12 loads in all.
Old Mrs. Featherstone came this evening on a visit. The weather is cool and clear.

August
Wednesday 6
1873
Commenced pulling the peas scarcely ripe enough yet in some spots, there is nice clean even
crop. Cut about 2 ¼ acres, two of us. James O’brien came back and started work today. Uncle
Adam and little Willie came this evening from St. Joseph on a visit.

August
Thursday 7
1873
Rain this morning and stopped the harvest operation. Was helping J. Learment this afternoon to
cut and bind spring wheat. Our hired man Graham gave up work yesterday and we have O’brien
in his place.

August
Friday 8
1873
Three of us cutting peas this forenoon, did over 1 ½ acres. Was reaping and binding oats, are
rather green and heavy on the low ground. Drove Mrs. Featherstone home this evening, she
was helping in the house because of mother’s sickness.

August
Saturday 9
1873
Was at pretty much the same kind of work as yesterday. Mrs. J.C. Snell and family came down
to stay over Sunday. Received from J. Crawforth $48.50 for fat cow, 2 lambs and 3 skins.

August
Sunday 10
1873
Went to S. School this morning Supt and Sec pres. lesson Matt V, 1 to 12, The Beatitudes. This
afternoon drove Uncle Adam and Willie over to Tullamore to Joseph Lindsays, they are going to
Orangeville via the T.G. B. Railway. Too late for church when I got home.

August
Monday 11
1873
Was very sick today with an attack of Cholera Mosbus and consequently was off work. Our
hired man O’brien took sick and left us without any help. Father was helping Armstrong thresh
grain. A. F. Campbell came here on a visit.

August

Tuesday 12

1873

Pulled some peas this forenoon. A heavy rain this afternoon which stopped harvesting for today.
Uncle Adam came back yesterday because of Willie’s sickness. A.F. C. drove them up to
Charleston with our buggy to R.R. Station. Mailed a letter to Dawson Modeland.

August
Wednesday 13
1873
Rain fell last night to some extent. Mrs. J.C. S. came down to help us grain in the house, mother
is still very poorly. No harvesting done today but cut a few peas. Alek and I spent the evening at
No. 10 chatting with some old acquaintances.

August
Thursday 14
1873
With the assistance of Mr. Anderson Campbell @ $1.50 per day, we finished cutting and binding
the oats. The dogs worried another ewe for us last night. A great many are still losing sheep by
dogs.

August
Friday 15
1873
Without any hired help we cut the spring wheat 6 acres it being very ripe and bound it all but an
acre, worked until very dark tonight. Bound nearly 4 acres of it myself. Alek is still here, he is
agent for several Life Insurance Companies, and is doing some business in that line.

August
Saturday 16
1873
Assisted with team and two hands of Learment to thresh wheat. Finished binding and shocking
the spring wheat. Aunt Ann Taylor and Viney arrived via railway from Oakville. The weather is
fine and cool.

August
Sunday 17
1873
Spent forenoon at S. School Supt and Sec present, lesson Matt VI 5 to 13, “Teaching to pray”.
Our little cousins from Oakville went up with us to S.S. Heard Rev Mr. Burns preach in
Brampton tonight, text Luke XiX, 41 and 42. An eloquent sermon plain and faithfully delivered.

August
Monday 18
1873
Cutting peas this morning before sunrise. Hauled in 9 loads of peas very dirty work, the mud
being washed unto them by the late heavy rains. Working until dark tonight and so prevented
from attending lodge.

August

Tuesday 19

1873

Finished cutting the peas and also drew the remainder of the field in 7 loads, making 6 loads of
peas in all. Those we cut this forenoon were so very ripe that they were fit to put right in the
barn at once. Mailed to R.J. Nichols of Chicago a letter.

August
Wednesday 20
1873
Hauled in the “Mammoth” spring wheat 6 loads, also 3 loads of oats from “other place”, the oat
sheaves are very solid and heavy with the weight of grain. Aunt Ann and mother were at J.C.
Snells from two days and came home tonight.

August
Thursday 21
1873
Sang harvest home for this year, has been rather long and tedious it being a full month since
the first sheaf was reaped. Finished up with the oats had six very large loads.

August
Friday 22
1873
Spent the day harrowing in the fallow. The weather today was very warm and this evening quite
sultry. Spent evening at Choir practice, not many present.

August
Saturday 23
1873
Was marking out the fallow into ridges 22 ft wide, and commenced the ridging. Aunt Ann Taylor
and her family of six started for home via Toronto. Uncle Adam came here, he has bought a
store and lot in Amaranth.

August
Sunday 24
1873
Spent forenoon at S. School Supt and Sec pres. lesson Matt VII, 22 to 29, “The two
foundations”. Spent afternoon at home with J.C.S. and family and lots of music. Heard Rev. W.
Burns preach in Brampton tonight text Job XXII chap 22 to 24th.

August
Monday 25
1873
A heavy rain early this morning. Was helping David Wiggins to thresh grain. Hired a man for one
month @ $17.00. Started work today. Spent evening at the Lodge. Rev. J. Scott was initiated,
had a very nice meeting and lively.

August

Tuesday 26

1873

Was ridging up plowed more than 1 ½ acres. Was hauling manure on the knolls in out ground.
Received yesterday from Carthage a newspaper containing some interesting matter. Paid to the
Agent $2.00 for Punshon’s sermons and lectures.

August
Wednesday 27
1873
At the same work as yesterday and did the same amount of it. Uncle Adam is very sick and will
not be able to go home this week. Spent evening at home reading my new book.

August
Thursday 28
1873
Still at the plowing have 2/3 of the field done, it is in splendid trim for wheat. Received a letter
from Oakville telling us of Uncle Taylor’s family safe arrival and a prescription from Dr.
Sutherland for medicine for Viney. Bought of John Cation 10 bush Diehl seed wheat.

August
Friday 29
1873
Plowing continued through the day. Spent evening in Brampton at the residence of J. M. Jones
Esq. at a Moonlight Social by the Safe Guard Lodge, the brass band was present and
recitations by two brethren, a song by Sr. Morton, the grounds were lighted by Chinese lanterns
and a goodly crowd present. Realized $16.50.

August
Saturday 30
1873
An extremely warm day, the horses suffered considerably betwixt heat and ravenous flies, and
the work of plowing. Mr. Robert Miller and his sister of Markham came over to “Willow Lodge”
this evening on a visit of a day or two.

August
Sunday 31
1873
Went to S. School this morning, Supt and Sec pres, lesson Matt IX 1 to 9 “Power to Forgive
Sins”. Viney and I took dinner at J.C.S.’s. Heard Rev. John G. Scott preach in Brampton tonight
text Psalm CXVII 3rdverse. Rainy this morning and a warm dull day.

September
Monday 1
1873
Finished plowing this forenoon. Started sowing the Diehl wheat, very high winds making it very
hard work sowing. Bought 7 bush Diehl wheat from John Groat for seed, it is a good clean
sample. Spent evening at the Lodge, Chronicle by J. J. Bunting and readings etc.

September

Tuesday 2

1873

Finished the wheat-sowing put 16 ½ bush on 9 ½ acres it harrowed in very nicely but the ground
is pretty dry. Viney received yesterday a letter from Sarah Peacock of Missouri.

September
Wednesday 3
1873
Bought ½ bush of timothy seed and mixed with 1 bush of ? raising and sowed it on the wheat
field. In company with half dozen members of Safe Guard Lodge I started for Toronto his
morning to attend a Grand Temperance Demonstration for Ontario. They formed a large
procession with banners and bands and marched through the principal streets of the City and
held a mass meeting in the Crystal Palace, had able addresses.

September
Thursday 4
1873
Spent last evening at a Concert in the Music Hall, Misses Barr, Wooking and Eccleston
rendered some very fine music they are splendid singers. C.W. Coates also sang very well.
Staid last night with Aunt Lizzie Ferguson and part of today, she lives on Buchanan St.. Came
home on this evening train had two pleasant days in Toronto.

September
Friday 5
1873
Was plowing barley stubble intended for sowing rye, the ground is very hard, it is hard work for
both man and beast. Spent evening at Choir Practice a slim attendance. Sold to J.C. Snell 5
ram lambs @ $12.00 cash.

September
Saturday 6
1873
At the same work as yesterday and finished all we intend plowing at present rather more than 2
acres. Bought of R. Armstrong 3 bush of rye @ $1.00 per bush. Aunt Lizzie’s children are here
tonight. Alma is going to school in Brampton, is boarding at Mr.A. Morton’s. The weather is fine
and cool.

September
Sunday 7
1873
Spent forenoon at S. School Supt abs, sec pre and conducted the exercises, lesson Matt X, 1 to
15, “The Twelve Called”, Mr. A. Woodhall addressed the school. A rainy afternoon, Aunt Mrs.
W. Ferguson is here, came from Toronto last night. Heard Reve. J. G. Scott preach text Heb. IV,
13th, at 6 p.m. in Brampton.

September
Monday 8
1873
Sowed 3 bush of rye on 2 acres harrowed it and furrowed and shovelled the drains there on.
Uncle Adam and Willie started for home at 12 o’clock today on the G.T.R.R. they expect to get

therein 48 hours. Spent evening at the Lodge, Chronicle by Bro. A. Martin and several readings
and songs. Bought of J. Coyne pr. Kip boots @ $4.50.

September
Tuesday 9
1873
Was plowing all day for John Woodhall with one team. Was also helping two other neighbors at
threshing. At New York Mills tomorrow that most valuable herd of Short-Horns in America are to
be sold by Auction. J.C. Snell started today to travel there to attend the sale.

September
Wednesday 10
1873
Spent forenoon plowing at J. Woodhall’s. Fanned up 51 bush of new peas the result of 2 ½ days
work with the flailing by our man. Aunt Lizzie and her family went home this evening. Had a visit
from Mr. And Mrs. J. M. Jones this evening. The Great Short-Horn Sale today the cows brought
from $40.00 down to $10.00.

September
Thursday 11
1873
Mr. Cation’s machine was threshing here all day. Have over 200 bush barley, plump and heavy,
nearly 300 bush of oats. A south East wind made it very dusty work. P.J. Barnum’s large show
and Menagerie from New York is in Toronto now is attracting real crowds from all parts of the
country.

September
Friday 12
1873
Finished threshing at noon today, about 70 bush spring wheat 50 Treadwell, 120 Diehl wheat.
This is only an approximation from the size and appearance of the pile. Spent afternoon helping
J. Learmont to thresh. The weather very warm for this season. Barley promises to be a high
price 90 cts per bush at present.

September
Saturday 13
1873
Threshing again today at J. Learment’s. Am nearly used up with the dust and hard work.
Received a letter from R. H. Nichols of Chicago and one from A. J. Campbell of Mt. Charles. Mr.
J.H. Elliot is home from Chicago on a visit. He is looking well.

September
Sunday 14
1873
A very cold morning. The buffalo robes felt very comfortable in our ride this morning over to
Norval to attend the Camp Meeting which is being held there, heard a sermon on Bible wives
from New Connexion minister and a sermon by Rev. W. Burns text: James, last verse in Epistle.
A very large crowd of people present.

September
Monday 15
1873
Hauled to Brampton and sold to K. Chisolm & Co. two loads of barley-120 bush @ 87 cts per
bush-$104.40 it is a little dark in color but weighs very heavy, averaging more than 2 ½ bush in
each bag. Spent evening at Lodge, two songs by Sr J. C. Morton and comic reading by Bro. W.
Williams

September
Tuesday 16
1873
A nice warm rain last night the fall wheat is springing up in fine style. Sold two more loads of
barley- 148 bush @ 90 cts=$128.70, have about 12 bush left, total, 275 bush barley, off 8 acres
34 ½ per acre. Spent evening and staid all night at J. Conel’s.

September
Wednesday 17
1873
Was cross plowing the pea stubble, have given more than half of the field a heavy coating of
well rotted barn-yard manure, will be in fine trim for spring grain next season. The barley market
is lively this fall with $1.10 in Toronto yesterday.

September
Thursday 18
1873
Went to Guelph this morning on G.T. R.R. to attend the Central Fair which is held there this
week, a very large concourse of people were at it. The show live stock was very good, also the
display of the great varieties in the large hall was also very good. Got home at 7 o’clock, the
cars were very much crowded.

September
Friday 19
1873
Was cross plowing in pea stubble with both teams. Yesterday was very warm and last night
some very heavy thunder and a great deal of rain. The barley is still going up in price $t20 cts
per bush in Toronto

September
Saturday 20
1873
At the same work as yesterday. Our man Lovitt was helping R. Armstrong to thresh. Went to
Brampton this evening to meet father and mother at the depot. They have been visiting Mr.
Isaac Modeland of Elora, it is a thriving little town 13 miles N.W. of Guelph on the H.G. & B.
R.R.

September

Sunday 21

1873

Spent forenoon at S. School Supt and Sec both absent lesson, Matt XI, 25 to 30. The Gracious
call. Mr. A. Woodhall conducted the exercises of the School. Heard Rev W. Burns preach in
Brampton tonight, text Matt XXII, 1 to 10

September
Monday 22
1873
Commenced the potato harvest by digging “Early Rose” brought in to cellar about 28 bush
today. Started to rain this evening and is a very wet night. Staid at home this evening and
peeled and cored apples for drying.

September
Tuesday 23
1873
Was chopping down and into rail lengths the young basswoods and black ash on the railroad
allowance in “other place” bush. There are several gangs of navvies at work along the line. Was
at J. Woodhall’s threshing this afternoon.

September
Wednesday 24
1873
At the same work as yesterday both forenoon and afternoon. The Provincial Exhibition is being
held at London this week and is a great success; over 30,000 visitors were on the grounds
today.

September
Thursday 25
1873
Fanned 13 bush mixed Diehl and spring wheat for grist. Another heavy rain last night and this
morning. Was cross plowing all day. Hired man is chopping cord wood on the railroad
allowance.
September
Friday 26
1873
At the potato harvest all day and finished the “Early Rose” have about 50 bush; sold 4 bags of
them to T. Milner @ 50 cts. Per bag. Spent evening at Choir Practice, a good attendance, had a
copy of the New Canadian Anthem Book” published in Toronto at W. M. Bookroom.
September
Saturday 27
1873
Miss Mary E. Banting died night before last of typhoid fever. Aged 17 yrs, she was a lively and
healthy looking girl, but Death came and she had to succumb, she was fully prepared for the
great change we have reason to believe. The Good Templars formed a procession at the
funeral the pall bearers were young men of the Lodge, Rev. Mr. Joliffe preached text Matt.
XXIV, 44. 1 p.m. Ministry

September

Sunday 28

1873

Spent forenoon at S. School Supt. abs. Sec. abs. rather small attendance of scholars A.
Woodhall & N.V. Watson addressed the School-lesson-Review of the past-Quarter’s lesson
Golden Text I Tim. 1s – 15th verse. Heard Rev. J. G. Scott preach in Brampton tonight text
Galatious III 13th verse. An exceedingly warm day the mercury at 90°.

September
Monday 29
1873
Received a telegram from J.C.S. who is at London wanting me to go West with them to show
their sheep at St. Louis Fair. Started from Brampton at 5 o’clock and got to London at 10 p.m. J.
C. and I took cars G.W. R. and got to Windsor where we met J.G. Snell in charge of the sheep
(52 in all).

September
Tuesday 30
1873
Breakfasted at Windsor. The freight cars containing the show sheep were run on a ferry boat of
immense and shipped over Detroit river to Detroit City. Started this evening on “Michigan
Central R.R.” for Chicago. Had only a limited view of Detroit City, was waiting around the
Railway depot

October
Wednesday 1
1873
Took breakfast at “Battle Creek” this morning. Was travelling all last night by cars, slept in the
freight car with the sheep. Had a fine run through Michigan today, there are some large and fine
looking farms through this state. Took dinner at 4 p.m. in Michigan City, on the shore of the lake,
there are some immense banks of fine white sand.

October
Thursday 2
1873
Arrived in Chicago last night at 11 p.m. Slept in the car till morning when we unloaded the sheep
from the cars and put them in stock yards. Spent most of day in S. Yards and did not see much
of the city, however the Yards are a wonderful sight covering 40 acres filled with pens which
contain thousands of hogs and cattle & sheep.

October
Friday 3
1873
Shipped last night on Chicago & Alton R. Road for St. Louis. Slept last night in van car very
comfortably. Took breakfast this morning at Bloomington Illinois, from thence run all day through
this state, corn is the principal crop grown nearly half the ground being covered with it. Had
dinner at 7 p.m. at Canalton.

October

Saturday 4

1873

Slept last night in the van and cars. Got to East St. Louis at 2 a.m., amid a heavy thunder
shower. Unloaded the sheep and transferred to the large ferry, thence across the Old
Mississippi to St. Louis. Drove the sheep up to Fairground a distance of 4 miles and got them all
fixed up for the night.

October
Sunday 5
1873
This day is kept by a large class in this city but indifferently observed many of the stores are
open and doing business, and a great many labourers at work. Spent forenoon at a M.E. S.
School which was well conducted, heard a sermon night after school. This afternoon was at E.
J. Jone’s large Mission School, a roll of 700 scholars.

October
Monday 6
1873
Spent the day fitting up the sheep for the show of tomorrow. Not a large show of sheep. J.
Rleraig will be our principal competitor. The Fair Ground is a very handsome one, being neatly
laid out-with carriage drives and fountains and a great many large trees and ornamental ones, it
covers about 75 acres.

October
Tuesday 7
1873
There are 12 premiums offered today on Cotswolds of which 9 were won by Mrssrs Snell &
Sons, blue ribbon denotes 1st prize and red 2ndprize. Have several horse races every day on a
half mile track in Fair Ground which are very exciting, best time made at running race, a mile in
1 min. ? sec.

October
Wednesday 8
1873
Was showing some for fat sheep and gained 4 prizes out of 6 offered. The show of Short-Horns
is rather limited the herd of Shropshire of Kentucky is excellent and has scared away a great
many herds, so he will have most of the prizes. J. H. Pickrell of Ill. Shows some fine ShortHorns. There is a large show of hogs of every breed.

October
Thursday 9
1873
Snell & Sons were successful today in taking a 2 $50 prizes Sweepstakes, J.H. Pikrell took the
largest share of the Short Horn premiums. J.Rleraig took the best Berkshire prizes. The Show of
Farm Machinery is very extensive and varied, the reapers and threshers during the exhibition
were driven by steam.

October

Friday 10

1873

Fully 80,000 people on the Fair Grounds yesterday, they made a fine display in the large
amphitheatre which was crowded to its utmost capacity. It is fully 200 yds in diameter. The show
in Floral department was very fine. A sewing machine run by steam and a model of a locomotive
in operation were among the curiosities.
October
Saturday 11
1873
The attendance of visitors at the Fair was not very large. There is a very large and fine
collection of minerals from all parts of the “Union”, they make a handsome display. The show of
Agric. Implements and machines is immense, a reaper which binds the grain itself, with a wire.
Also, a great number of plows only suited for prairie work.

October
Sunday 12
1873
The Fair Grounds are open today, the receipts to be given to City of Memphis which is being
fearfully scourged by the Yellow Fever. J.C. S. and I took dinner with Mrs. Featherstone, a lady
that was born and raised in Brampton and a nice person she is. Packed up our things and
shipped the stock over the Mississippi, 14 sheep, having sold 37.

October
Monday 13
1873
J.C.S. & I took express train from East St. Louis last night at 8 o’clock for Chicago and got there
at 7 o’clock this morning. We went on home via M.C. R.R. Walked up to 58 W. Madison St. S.
White’s meat store, et R. J. Nichols there took dinner at their boarding house, went on street
cars out 2 miles and saw some more Canadians.

October
Tuesday 14
1873
R. J. Nichols and I sauntered through the South side of the city. The buildings are very grand
the 3 of us (J. R. Mason) visited the city water works., the steam engines which are here are the
largest in America, also a fine store tower nearly 200 ft high that we ascended by a spiral iron
staircase. Staid all night with E. W. Graft they are living at 134 Erie St.

October
Wednesday 15
1873
We visited yesterday Lincoln Park a very handsomely laid out place lakes, mills, fountains,
caves, rocks, bridges, islands and flower gardens also two buffaloes, deer, bears, wolves, and
eagles. We hired a boat and had a splendid ride on the park lake, it is situated on the shore of
Lake Michigan. Gathered a handful of nice stones to take home for a remembrance of things.

October

Thursday 16

1873

Went to Meyer’s Opera on Tuesday night and heard some of the best music of the city and
some really splendid performance all in imitation of niggers, they could act out darkey better
than the niggers themselves. Went to the Academy of Music tonight, a first class theatre, the
play was “Rip Van Winkle” it was grand and the printed scenery beautiful.

October
Friday 17
1873
Spent Wednesday night at William Wiggin’s place, 2 miles from the heart of the city. He is well
situated and getting good wages in a car shop. Went to a prayer meeting with H. Hindle, the
church was filled with an earnest and prayerful company, had a fellowship meeting in which
many spoke freely of their progress in the narrow way the ladies took a prominent part.

October
Saturday 18
1873
Went to the Industrial Exposition which is held in a mammoth new building on the Lake shore
right in front of the City. There was much to be seen here, a great variety of manufactures going
on the making of watches and printers’ type a beautiful collection of birds from all parts of the
world, the show of painting was very fine, and the best brass band I ever heard perform.

October
Sunday 19
1873
Went to the Centenary Church this morning, heard Rev. W. Riff of London preach text Luke V, 8
to 10th, a richly finished church inside, a large choir and magnificent organ. Mr. S. White drove
us out on the Boulevards, one of the finest carriage drives on the continent. A great number of
fine churches in this city. The Sabbath is well observed except among the Jews and Germans.

October
Monday 20
1873
Started from M. C. R.R. depot this morning at 9 o’clock for home. The weather was fine and the
scenery along the way was varied and attractive. The blue waters of old Michigan were lashed
into foam by a stiff breeze. Arrived at Port Huron at 10 o’clock amid a fearful storm of rain &
snow the cars were put on an immense ferry boat and run over St. Clair river.

October
Tuesday 21
1873
Was travelling all night at a rapid rate and slept but little. Got to Brampton at 6 a.m., the ground
was white with snow. Walked up home and was very surprised to see Aunt Jennie Harrington,
she came here from Carthage on the 10 th. Brought from Chicago a present for each of my
sisters. Have had a very enjoyable trip to the West.

October

Wednesday 22

1873

Spent forenoon in Brampton got measured for a 25.00 suit of clothes in Wilkinson’s store.
Received a letter for Aunt Jennie from Uncle Tom., he is in very poor health. Was shopping this
afternoon at “other place” bush on the railroad land and finished hauling off the timber, there is
now a strip 4 rods wide right through the bush.

October
Thursday 23
1873
Mr. R.E. Morton and Miss S. J. Truman married today. Spent forenoon fanning a load of Diehl
wheat for a market. Started to plow sod in the orchard field, it is in fine trim for plowing. J. C.
Snell and wife were in Toronto the last two days, attending the Provincial S. S. Convention, it
was a great success, had addresses from men of England & France and the States.

October
Friday 24
1873
At the sod plowing again today. Had a team hauling wood from our bush for W. James Sewell.
Aunt Jennie, Vinny and I went to Brampton tonight to attend the special services which have
been going on in W. M. Church for three weeks and doing a good work. Received from Co.
Gent. Officer a steel portrait of Luther Tucker Sen.

October
Saturday 25
1873
At the same work as yesterday the sod is tough, making it heavy work on man and beast. Our
man Lovitt finished his two months work yesterday paid him his wages $31.50. Have had a
great deal of rain of late, not much cold weather yet.

October
Sunday 26
1873
Spent forenoon at S. School Supt. abs.Sec. pres and conducted the exercises (and gave as a
good description of the Prov. S. S. Convention) lesson Matt XVIII 1 to 8. The Transfigured. Went
to Choir Practice this afternoon in Brampton. Heard Rev. J. G. Scott preach tonight, text,
Jeremiah XV, latter clause of 20th verse.

October
Monday 27
1873
Sold to K. C. & Co. 81 bush Diehl wheat @ $1.17 per bush. Bought for mother a mink set of furs
@ 28.00. Mr. George Rice of Oshawa came here tonight on a visit. Spent evening at the Lodge,
the election of Officers for next quarter. W. C. J. – C. H. Golding. W. S. – J. H. Ferguson

October
Tuesday 28
1873
A mixture of snow and rain and turning pretty cold tonight. Was plowing sod all day. Had the
other team moving Lovitt’s furniture to Brampton. They are moving back to Muskoka. Spent

evening at home and had a good sing with Aunt Jennie reminding us of old times of 7 years
ago.

October
Wednesday 29
1873
The ground white with snow this morning. Was killing and picking ducks for market, dressed 24
for sale. Was plowing sod this afternoon. Spent evening at home in writing up the S.S. Class
books for the next two months.

October
Thursday 30
1873
Sold to K.C. & Co. 12 pairs of ducks @ 60 cts per pair. Spent forenoon plowing sod. Started the
turnip harvest topping with the hoes and plowing them out, hauled in one load. Sarah Ann
Bunting died last night of typhoid after two weeks of intense suffering.

October
Friday 31
1873
Hauled in 4 loads of turnips, the severe frosts at night and snow squalls make it very unpleasant
work. Went to Brampton tonight on horseback, attended the protracted meeting in W.M. Church
and heard Rev. R. Barns preach a stirring sermon, there were several forward as seekers of
salvation.

November
Saturday 1
1873
At the same work as yesterday had James Sewell to help us hauled in 7 loads of turnips. The
Quarterly Board met in Brampton this afternoon and gave a unanimous vote on the Union
Question. Spent evening at Choir Practice. Bought of Wilkinson a suit of dark clothes and paid
for them and kid mitts $26.25.

November
Sunday 2
1873
Went to Brampton at 10 a.m. to Quarterly Meeting, Rev. J. C. Scott preached a most excellent
sermon. 25 new converts joined the church and 26 one week ago had a soul stirring love feast.
Took dinner at J.m. Jones’. Heard Rev. Mr. Dundas of Streetsville preach tonight. Text Romans
XII 1st. A wet afternoon and evening.

November
Monday 3
1873
Still at turnip harvest, hauled in 12 loads today the turnips are of a good size but the ground is
soft and sticks to them badly. A very cold Nor Wester and freezing all day. Spent evening at the
Lodge. Officers were installed by Bro. C. J. Moore, and had a long speech from him.

November
Tuesday 4
1873
Had two of the Sewells and J. Learment helping us today was hauling with two wagons brought
in 15 loads. A bright warm day, the ground getting considerably dryer. Spent evening at home
writing up the Minutes of last night’s meeting.

November
Wednesday 5
1873
Completed harvest for this year by hauling in 5 more loads of turnips- total number of loads 44,
about 1400 bushels. The weather has been pretty severe for the work but we went for the job
lively and now it is done. Spent evening writing a letter to R. J. Nichols. Sir John A. McDonald’s
government resigned office today and the Opposition will now go into power.

November
Thursday 6
1873
This forenoon hauled turnip tops for cattle, makes good fodder. Run out the cross and long
furrows on root ground for winter. Went to Brampton tonight and heard Rev. J. G. Scott preach
text Psalm CI. Today was observed as a public holiday throughout the Dominion for
Thanksgiving to God for a bountiful harvest and many mercies.

November
Friday 7
1873
Was hauling gravel from the banks of Etobicoke and putting it on the front lane, it was cut-up
with the wagons in drawing turnips. Also at the sod plowing. The Chinguacousy Annual Plowing
Match took place today near Edmonton some first class work done, 27 plows at work.

November
Saturday 8
1873
Plowing sod this forenoon the other team hauling gravel. Drove up to J.C. Snell’s after dinner
taking back one of their ram lambs and bringing home our ewe which has been up there since
last spring.

November
Sunday 9
1873
Aunt Jennie, Viney, Dawson Modeland I drove in spring wagon this morning down to Toronto.
Twp to visit Alek. Took dinner with him at this boarding place Mr. Wedgewood near Palestine.
Had tea at Mrs. Baldock’s and saw there Alek’s little girl Mary Eugenie. The roads very bad and
a dark night to come home.

November

Monday 10

1873

After hauling a load of turnip tops (a daily job) for cattle they have a great relish for them helped
J. Learment to dress three hogs. At the plowing all afternoon. Spent evening at Lodge a lively
meeting but not much business done two ladies initiated.
The Reuben R. Sallows Digital Library
November
Tuesday 11
1873
Finished gravelling the lane have put about 10 loads on it, the surface was cut up with the
teaming of the turnips and needed the repairing badly. Have about 7 acres of sod plowed all
that part of the field lying S.E. of the orchard. A snow storm set in at night fall.
November
Wednesday 12
1873
The plowing weather is over for the present. Snow fell last night to the depth of 4 inches and
today is like winter freezing all day long. Fanned up 8 bags of peas and oats for chopping and
father took it to Brampton after dinner. Was chopping in “other place” bush.

November
Thursday 13
1873
Winter weather continues. Was splitting rails from black ash and basswood timber, split over
230 today. They are very easily split not much mauling required. Had a call this evening from
Robert Smith M.P. He gave us a fine description of what he saw and heard at Ottawa.

November
Friday 14
1873
Was chopping cordwood all day. Mostly beach, chops nice and mostly splits easily. Aunt Jennie,
Viney and I drove to Brampton tonight attended Choir Practice the new “Canadian Anthem
Book” contains some very choice music.

November
Sunday 16
1873
Dawson Modeland came up this morning and we all drove up to the S.School, Supt. pre. Sec.
pres. lesson Mattt XXVI 20 to 26- The Lord’s Supper. The attendance at School was very good.
Heard Rev. W. Burns preach in Brampton tonight, text Jeremiah VI 16th verse.

November
Monday 17
1873
Spent the day in chopping in the woods. Drove to Brampton tonight, bought of Wilkinson a pair
of tweed pants for every day wear. Spent evening at the Lodge three young men initiated.
Chronicle by Bro. Golding, had a lively pleasant meeting. Aunt Jennie got letter from Uncle Tom.

November

Tuesday 18

1873

At the same work as yesterday. J.Coyne M.P.P. who died on Sunday was buried today in
Brampton Rev. J.G. Scott preached a sermon. The funeral was largely attended, he was only 38
years old. Mailed a letter to J.C. White of Hamilton on Lodge business.

November
Wednesday 19
1873
At the same work, am getting pretty well used to the business now and can cut 2 ½ cords in a
day but not split or pile it. Have had the stock stabled and feeding like in winter for nearly two
weeks, the turnip tops are all fed but one load.

November
Thursday 20
1873
At the same work yesterday. The death of Mr. Coyne makes a necessity for another election to
the Ontario Legislature, it’s expected that a Reform candidate will have no difficulties in securing
a seat. Up to J. C. Snell’s and spent the evening.

November
Friday 21
1873
Snow falling all forenoon but still not enough for sleighing. Some of the church members met at
Zion to repair stove pipes etc. Went to Brampton tonight and attended the Choir Practice.
Bought of W. A. Mitchell a street watch guard for 20 cts.

November
Saturday 22
1873
Chopping all day again. Father and Aunt Jennie went to Brampton and met Mr. George Rice at
the Depot. J.C. Snell and wife were her for tea it is his 33rd birthday. Alex Campbell came here
late this evening.

November
Sunday 23
1873
Spent forenoon at S. School Supt. pres. Sec. pres. Lesson Matt XXVI 30 to 45. In the Garden of
Gethsemane. Aunt Jennie Peacock and I took dinner at J.C. Snell’s. Drove Alex down to
Toronto township and heard Rev. J.G. Scott preach in Brampton tonight text II Chronicles XXXI,
21st.

November
Monday 24
1873
About six inches of snow fell down last night, the sleigh bells are ringing out merrily all day from
the Centre Road. Was working in the sheep house lining it up inside with pine lumber. Drove
sleigh to Brampton tonight and went to Lodge, Chronicle by Robbie Burns.

November
Tuesday 25
1873
At the same work as yesterday, put a window in sheep pen, which makes it more bright and
cheerful. George Rice left here this forenoon for Oshawa. A very wintry appearance now and
pretty cold withal.

November
Wednesday 26
1873
Spent the day in the woods chopping beech and Elm. The snow that has fallen makes the work
slower and not so pleasant. Spent the evening at home reading the Temperance papers. Our
folks and Aunt Jennie were visiting at J.W. Main’s.

November
Thursday 27
1873
A very stormy day, snow coming fast all day from N.E. and very cold. Drove my sisters over to
school with the sleigh. Completed the fitting up of the sheep pen, it is now very warm and
comfortable. Spent Evening at work on Chronicle for next week.

November
Friday 28
1873
Spent forenoon butchering and dressing three Berkshire hogs 13 months old. They weighed
620 lbs. gross. Also dressed 9 turkeys for market, weighing 8 lbs each worth 7 cts. a lb. Heard
Rev. A.E. Griffith the G.D. Sons of Temperance lecturer in Brampton tonight, he started a
Division with 11 members.

November
Saturday 29
1873
Commenced the winter barning by hauling the old rails from “other place” to orchard field hauled
nearly 300 down. The political excitement is starting once more, the election will come off in
about three weeks. K Chisolm is likely to be the reform candidate.

November
Sunday 30
1873
Spent forenoon at S. School Supt. pres. Sec. pres. lesson Matt. XXVI, 59 to 70. Jesus before
the High Priest. Had a call this afternoon from Mr. and Mrs. J.W. Main of Brampton, heard Rev.
J.G. Scott preach tonight text. Genesis III, 9th verse

December
Monday 1
1873
Was threshing crown peas this forenoon with the flail. Spent afternoon removing line fences
over the Etobicoke between us and our neighbors. Spent Evening at the Lodge had a nice lively
meeting- Chronicle by Secretary and several good readings. A very cold stormy day. Bought at
Wilkinson’s pair of sheep skin mitts. @50cts.

December
Tuesday 2
1873
Great change in the temperature warm and raining more or less all day. Was drawing old rails.
The Reform Convention for nomination of a candidate for Ontario Parliament was held in
Brampton today 8 gentlemen proposed but K. Chisolm was elected to be Reform candidate.

December
Wednesday 3
1873
A genuine thaw has set in the snow is fast disappearing. Was choring around the barnyard all
forenoon. Went to Campbell’s blacksmith’s and had “Charlie” sharpened. Spent Evening at
home at music and reading.

December
Thursday 4
1873
The snow has almost entirely gone. An extraordinarily high wind all last night and today which
has blown a great amount of fences and unroofed some sheds for different parties. Was making
a new rock elm pole for the light wagon. Spent Evening at J.C. Snell’s.

December
Friday 5
1873
Spent the day at chopping firewood. Went to Brampton tonight and attended a large political
meeting A.W. Lauder, M.P.P. was there and spoke in opposition to the Ontario Government of
J. Flemming spoke after and met every argument-the first speaker brought up. Got home at 12
o’clock.

December
Saturday 6
1873
At the same work as yesterday and put over 3 cords in the two day. The weather is fine now
and the roads dry and almost dusty. Christopher Faux came her on a short visit. Got a letter
yesterday from R.J. Nichols of Chicago.

December
Sunday 7
1873
Spent forenoon at S. School Supt. pres, Sec.Treas. pres. Lesson-Matt XXVII 11 to 26- Jesus
before the Governor. Went to Brampton W.M.S.S. J.W. Beynon is Supt-it is a very large school
and well conducted. Took tea at W.M. parsonage, Heard Rev. W. Burns preach text Luke XIII24th

December

Monday 8

1873

Cutting wood this forenoon. A heavy go and raining. Viney and S. Campbell were collecting
money for the Bible Society. Did not go down to Lodge tonight because of the rain.
December
Tuesday 9
1873
At the same work as yesterday, and finished chopping the lumber that was taken off the
Railroad land. Father drove Aunt Jennie to Brampton in the buggy, the roads are very muddy.
Received a St. Joseph daily paper from Uncle Adam. Bot a light neckyoke for the spring wagon.

December
Wednesday 10
1873
At work in the woods all day. Split a white ash and a black ash into rails that were thrown down
by the wind. The weather is quite moderate and the roads muddy. Had a call this Evening from
Mr. G.A. Golding of Brampton.

December
Thursday 11
1873
Killed and dressed for meat 3 Berkshires 6 months old weighing respectively 108, 134, 136 lbs.
Spent afternoon chopping at “other place” bush a large soft maple into firewood. Spent evening
at Ebenezer practising music for the approaching S.S. Anniversary.

December
Friday 12
1873
Sold to T. Milner of Brampton two hogs @$5.70- 240 lbs. Spent all afternoon at Nomination of
K.Chisolm and S. White. A very large crowd present-Hon. Mr. Pardee, M.P.P. gave long and
vaporous speeches, the two former in favor of present government and latter against.

December
Saturday 13
1873
A stormy day, snow fell nearly to the depth of one foot. Spent the day cleaning and oiling the
harness. Went to Brampton after dinner and had a back tooth filled by W.H. Graham. Took tea
at Mrs. Trueman’s. Dawson Moreland started for the west this morning.

December
Sunday 14
1873
At S. School this forenoon Supt.- abs. Sec. Tres. Pres. lesson Matt XXVI, 30 to 45. The
Crucifixion, J.C. Snell and family spent afternoon here. Drove sleigh to Brampton tonight and
heard Rev. W. Burns preach text I Timothy III, 16th verse.

December
Monday 15
1873
Drove sleigh up to Willow Lodge this morning on business. Spent afternoon re-erecting a board
fence destroyed by the wind for Aunt Lizzie on her lot in Brampton. Spent evening at the Lodge,

chronicle by Robbie Burns. A good attendance and a lively meeting. Mailed a “Banner” to Uncle
Adam.

December
Tuesday 16
1873
Mr. George Rice came last night on a short visit. Was hauling manure from the barnyard and on
the sleigh down to the orchard field. Bought from J.C. Snell 4 Berkshires 2 months old @$2.50
each. Nice mild weather now, sleighing very poor on the roads.

December
Wednesday 17
1873
Spent forenoon at J. Learment’s helping to kill and dress a beef. Was hauling wood from “other
place” bush for James Sewell all day. Very fine mild weather now; very little sleighing and snow
getting scarcer every day.
December
Thursday 18
1873
Spent forenoon in the woods and finished up all the chopping there is to do in “other place” bush
for this season. Received from the “Guardian” Office the two Chronos, “Wide Awake” and “FastAsleep” they are very handsome. Spent evening at S.S. Practice at Ebenezer.

December
Friday 19
1873
The polling of votes for the election of a candidate to be member of Ontario Parliament and
represent County of Peel took place today. Father and I drove sleigh to Mayfield and voted for
R. Chisolm who was elected by a majority of 250 over S. White the Tory candidate. Had
bonfires and torchlight procession in Brampton tonight.

December
Saturday 20
1873
Not doing much work, spent the day choring around the barnyard. Sold to K.C. & Co. 14 bush
Diehl wheat @$1.20 per bush. Father bought a fur cap and doeskin gloves @$3.60. Spent
evening at Choir Practice, getting up some new anthems. Received a letter yesterday from
Uncle Adam containing a cheque for $1,000.00.

December
Sunday 21
1873
Was at S. School this morning Supt pers. Sec. pres. lesson Matt. XXVIII, 1 to 8. The Ascension
of Jesus Christ. A large attendance at School. K.F. Snell and Mrs. Grimshaw were present, after
an absence of 3 months. Heard Rev. J.G. Scott preach in Brampton at 6 p.m. text II Corinthians
VIII, 9th verse.

December
Monday 22
1873
Commenced chopping in the lower bush timber blown down by the great wind storm of 3 weeks
ago. The day school examination of our section came off today, a goodly number of visitors
present and prizes given to the scholars. Spent Evening at Lodge, a large attendance the
Chronciel by the W. Secretary.

December
Tuesday 23
1873
At the same work as yesterday cutting beech and maple. Father started for Orangeville early
this morning in a cutter on business for Uncle Adam. Spent Evening at Ebenezer S. School
singing practice the children turn out in crowds and sing very well indeed.

December
Wednesday 24
1873
Drove spring waggon to Brampton this afternoon and brought Mrs. Trueman & Heather
Moreland to spend Christmas Day at our place. Sister Emma went to Toronto on the cars. Had
the Chromos “Wide Awake” & “Fast-Asleep” framed at H. Barnett’s shop, costing $1.00. Father
arrived home tonight from seeing the folks in Amaranth.

December
Thursday 25
1873
Christmas Day has come once more, a time honoured holiday for all classes, the high and the
lowly and universal. A mild cloudy day, very little snow no sleighing on the main roads. Had
dinner at home with Mrs. Trueman. Aunt Jennie & Heather as visitors. Spent evening at
Brampton P. Methodist Opening Tea-Meeting. Good speaking and good singing.

December
Friday 26
1873
At work in the woods cutting rock elm in fence stake lengths. Aunt Jennie started for Montreal
this evening on 5 o’clock train G.T. R. she will get there at noon tomorrow. Spent evening at
Choir Practice, had some spirited singing at long and difficult anthems.

December
Saturday 27
1873
Viney and I drove up to J.C. Snell’s today for dinner. Mrs. Gimshaw, Kizzie, Richard, Emma &
Tilly Snell were also there for dinner, spent afternoon in pleasant conversation and music. Spent
evening at Ebenezer practicing S.School music. Snow falling gently and very slowly all day long
with a heavy mist.

December

Sunday 28

1873

Spent forenoon at S. School Supt. pres. Sec. pres. lesson a Review of all lessons of the past
three months. Spent afternoon at Brampton W. M. S. School and at Choir Practice. Heard Rev.
John Shaw of Toronto preach at 6 p.m. text Hebrews XI 8th verse. A missionary anniversary
sermon.

December
Monday 29
1873
The nomination of councillors for next year took place today at Edmonton. T. Bowles-Reeve, E.
Haggard & J. P. Hutton – Deputy Reeves. J. Modeland & J. Leslie- Councillors. Spent afternoon
decorating Zion Church for the S. S. Anniversary. Spent evening at Brampton W. M. Missionary
meeting, Rev.s’ W. Fadden, J. Shaw & Learoyd were the deputation, a large attendance.

December
Tuesday 30
1873
Drove sleigh this morning over to Mr. J. Hunters for a load of cedar boughs for decorating and
spent nearly all day getting the church trimmed up for tonight. In company with two more sleighs
I drove to Brampton and brought three loads of people to the tea meeting. Rev. W. Millard, D.
McLean & C. Millard all of Toronto addressed the meeting. The Church was crowded.

December
Wednesday 31
1873
The last day of the year has come again, bringing with it a host of recollections both and sad
and pleasant. Whether the time has been improved and put to good use or whether it has been
idly spent it is now of the past and all of our actions and doings are eternally fixed. The weather
is moderate and has been for the past 3 weeks.