EBEN MUIR RICE
DIARY

September 1, 1867
To
DIARY THREE
THIS IS THE THIRD BOOK, it should probably have been the fifth, as two and a half years are missing from March
1864. On the inside front cover it says (V), possibly one or two books from 1864 till 1867 were given to his sister, he
mentioned in the diary. It would contain the years from when he married Mary Bland, had a baby and spent time in
Quebec until returning to Beachville in 1867, or earlier as the Sept. 1/ 1867 diary indicates they have been resettled
in a rented house for a while.

Beverly Campbell
28 Greenhalf Dr
Ajax, On
L1S 7N6.

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1867

Sept 1/1867

BEACHVILLE, Ont.

LAST BOOK THREE

1

*(Rented cottage from Mr. Brown)

A nice day, but quite cold. It seems as if we are to have an early winter. Friday and Saturday
morning we had very heavy frost and the weather quite cold.
Had good B. C & got T & lis? Pastor Elder Conrad preach from I Cor. III: 8-15. He took the
view that the things built meant doctrines taught and believed. In the afternoon and in the
evening took care of baby, read, &c. Wrote Uncle George enclosing a receipt for $50.
Sept 2nd
A cold night. Rose early and gathered ½ basket of butternuts. Went to the village and posted the
letter to Uncle George and got a bar of soap.
Elder Beardsall called and stayed to dinner, so that I didn’t get any work done in the foremorn.
In the afternoon cut up and stacked quite a lot of corn. It is drying better than I expected. If all
is well I will finish it tomorrow.
Sept 3/1867
A very cold, wet day. Before breakfast went to see if Mrs. Sutherland could wash for us this
week. At first she seemed disinclined to come, but at last agreed to come Friday. Spent the
morning cutting corn. In the afternoon it rained so hard that I couldn’t walk outside. Made a
lounge for our bedroom. In the evening I read to Mary and child.
*Possibly George Brown’s house.

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2

Sept 4/1867
A dry warm day. Cut corn most of the day. Got all cut except the piece at back of the house.
Husked 7 stocks so as to have some fodder for the cow. Found a nest in the haystack with 9 eggs
in it. Yesterday and today, it being election days in this riding, but I have not heard whether
Oliver or Noxon is elected. There was a fire at the other end of Beachville today. Mr. Sam Rush
had his barn with all his corps in it burnt. Poor fellow it will fall heavily on him. In the evening,
read to Mary.
Sept. 5/1867
A warm day. Spent the day in choring round. Husked corn, gathered some top-onions, cut the
tops and hung them up to dry, and in the afternoon I went up home. Mrs. B. fell down the cellar
and got hurt. Mrs. Sutherland sent a card that she couldn’t make it this morning to wash. Read in
the evening.
Sept. 6/1867
A cool day. Mary washed some clothes today and I took care of baby. Also peeled and hung up
to dry some apples, also brought in some onions. Got ½ bushel of top onions, also about ½ peck
of shallots. I also washed the windows in our bedroom and the dining room. Finished reading
the story of the Snow Ship in the evening.
Sept 7th
A nice day. Took care of Lennie all day. Went for my saw and brought it home. Could not
sharpen it yet. The sheep strayed off Thursday night and they have been hunting them since.
They were not found at dark tonight. In church all today. We stuffed the lounge.

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3

Sept.7/1867, Cont.
In the evening Mary went to the village. Mrs. Sutherland said to let us know on Wednesday
what day she can come. Mr. Withrow has a Parlor Cook Stove which he will sell for $7 and let
us wait till Christmas to pay. I am to go and see it on Monday.
Got the Canadian Baptist and Witness. I see in the Witness that sons have been born to Dr.
Thayer and Tom Cramp. Mary got $.50 for mutton for lovering but did not pay for it.
Sept. 8
A nice day. Had a large crowd at our church. The lesson was the first-half of the Lrs’d P. 2.
Elder Conrad preached from I John II. 8, the darkness is past and the true light now shineth. In
the morning, Mrs. & George Connor came and Mrs. B’s and Mary and baby went up in the
afternoon and stayed till dark. I didn’t go up, but stayed at home reading, &c.
Sept 9
This morning it threatened to rain, and I carried in most of the corn that was cut, and in the
afternoon, put it in the loft. After dinner went down to Mrs. Whitelaw’s to see about the stove. I
agreed to take it and am to get it home sometime this week. A Mr. Jail died in the village last
night of typhoid fever. In the afternoon we had a very heavy rain.


Mr. B. is Luc Bland. Luc and Emma Blands owed a 300 acre parcel in Embro. They had
three daughters Eliza, Mary, and Josie, and a son Leonard, aka Lennie.

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4

Sept 10/1867
A nice day. Spent the morning in various ways. Gathered a basket of fallen apples, cut down
weeds, cut kindling, &c. Found the tracks of someone who has been in our garden in the night,
but could not see that anything has been stolen. Mary went up home in the morning to milk the
cow as Leonard was away. In the afternoon, went up to Mr. B.s and cut wood, but did not work
very long as I did not feel like it. Came home along the river. Cut the stocks of some of the corn
back of the house. In the evening we pared and cut a basket of apples.
I expect that Aunts Lizzie & Tenie & Annie & Millie have started today for Brantford. If so, we
will see them soon. God give them a safe journey.
Gould has made Mr. Jail’s coffin. He is to be buried tomorrow. This week we heard that Elder
Conrad was down with the fever. I went to Gould’s to see if it was so. He overtaxed himself and
yesterday he had a kind of bilious attack, but today, he’s well enough to go out to Ingersoll.
Lennie has begun to walk. He took the first step on Sunday and yesterday and today, he has tried
it a good deal.
Sept 11/1867
A nice day. After breakfast Mary went up home to milk for us. She found Eliza and the two
children there. They had come last night. Eliza came down with Mary as she wants some
sewing done and stayed till after tea. We wanted her to stay all night, but she went up to her
father’s. She is going home tomorrow. Mr. B. sent down a quarter of a lamb this morning. I
have not heard if we are to pay for it or not. Cut some of the corn, got pinto beans & took care of
Lennie. Mr. Jail was buried today.

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5

Sept. 12/1867
A nice day. In the morning Mary & baby went up home & I cut corn. Got it all cut shortly after
dinner, and in the afternoon I went to get some likenesses of the children. They got very good
ones. I took care of Lennie while they were gone. Picked the hops this morning. Also pinto
beans and the corn. In the afternoon some friends of Mary’s from Dereham came to Mr. B’s and
sent down for Mary. After tea she and baby went up and about 8:30 I went after her, and met
them on the way home. Mr. B. shipped two lambs this week. Mary brought the Canadian
Baptist and a letter from Uncle George containing a draft for $49.72.
Sept. 13
A cool, dull, rainy day. In morning Miss Williams came down to see Mary and stayed till after
tea. Leonard brought our stove from Whitelaw’s. In the morning I got in all the corn from the
orchard and in the afternoon put it up in the loft. It rained a little in the morning and stormed
most all afternoon, but the evening was fine. In the evening, Mrs. Williams and daughters, Mrs.
B. and Emma came down for a while. Lennie has been very cross all day. His teeth hurt him
and he has a cold in the head.
Sept 14th
A nice day but cold. In the morning, Mrs. B., Josey & Emma went to Woodstock to sell some
apples, and we sent them for some things. They got home about dusk and brought us 50 cents
sugar, 50 cents rice, ½ green tea, ½ black tea and some print. They did not get a stove pipe.
They had been to Eliza’s and brought us about ½ bushel of pears from them.

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6

Sept. 14/1867, Cont.
Went up to Mr. B.’s in the morning. I cut wood, but as Leonard wants to use my axe, I did not
cut any, but gathered some that was cut. Got pinto beans, &c. Took care of Lennie a good deal.
He is very fretful today. He would not be good unless one of us held him all the time. Mary
churned this morning. In the evening we peeled & cut a lot of apples.
Sept. 15
A nice day. In the morning, had a very interesting service at the Baptist church. Quite a crowd
present. Our lesson was Matt VI: 11-24. Elder Conrad preached a good sermon on the
“Objections of Sinners when called on to Believe.” He founded his sermon on Ps. XXVII: 13, “I
had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the Lord.” A good enough text, but not
the faintest connection with the sermon.
In the afternoon and evening, read, played with baby, &c. Wrote to Annie and Millie in answer
to theirs Aug 24.
Sept 16
This morning it threatened to rain and before breakfast it rained very hard and kept it up till
about noon. Drew my money from the bank. Got $49.75, got $38 changed at 8 ½ percent, so I
got $1.33. Got ¼ alum at Mr. Kneeshaw’s. At O’Connors, got 1” coffee & stove polish & brush.
Posted letter to Annie. Paid McIntyre $15.50 for the chair and table I got July 4th & got back my
note. Bought 5 lengths of stove pipe & a damper at the store next to McIntyre. At Browett’s
bought a lantern. Met Mr. Douthwaite who was in town on business. Started to walk home, but
got a ride most of the way. Brought home $32.43.

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7

Sept. 16/1867, Cont.
But out of it comes $20 for rent & about $9 for Mr. B., & $3 for drawing wood, leaves us 43
cents to live on for 3 months. Our expenses are too far ahead of our income, but I see no help for
it. This constant trouble about the ways & means of living is so very wearing on a person.
Happy is he who has no cares of this kind.
Sept 17
A very hot day. Rose early & about 7 went up to Brombuer’s. He was not ready yet, but soon
came, and we drew wood all day. Drew 4 loads in the morning, and the same in the afternoon, 8
in all. We worked quite fast. I helped load up & unload & rode back and forth with him, all but
one load. Fixed up the fence all right before leaving. The woodshed is full & nearly a load
outside. Mr. Brombuer charged $2 for today & $1 for the half day. I paid him so that’s all
square. It’s very cheap wood for $3. Mary was up home to settle with her mother for what we
owe them. She paid $7; we still owe $2.47 for the things got last Saturday. They would take no
pay for the quarter of lamb, nor for a loaf of bread that Mary got that day. In the evening, Mary
went to see Mrs. Sutherland who’s coming on Thursday. Mr. Bland helped put up our stove.
Sept 18
A very hot day. Had a poor night, as it was; we were so tired and the night was so warm. This
morning it threatened rain & I hurried some corn into the barn. Did not finish till after dinner &
just got in the beans then put up to dry & the last of the corn, when it began to rain. Went up to
Mr. B.’s for the tubs. Took up the hammer and pail for the soap.

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8

Sept.18/1867 Cont.
Got their wheelbarrow from the woods and took one tub and the wheelbarrow and came home.
Found Annie Dent and Mary Al here. Put the horse in the barn and then put some corn up in the
loft; came in and changed my clothes and went to visit. Michael Dent came in about tea-time.
They went home about dark. We had put up a pipe on the parlor cook stove this morning and
Mary was busy black-leafing it when they came. Baby was very good all afternoon. In the
evening we peeled and stung a basket of apples.
Sept 19
A warm day, but not so hot as the last 3 days. Mrs. Sutherland washed for us today and I took
care of Lennie a good deal. Cut and piled some wood. Went to Mr. B.’s in the morning for the
but & soap & took back the tubs in the evening.
Went to the village for the papers. Got the Canadian Baptist; paid Levering for the meat 25
cents. Got bread at Fairbairn’s and 2 ½ doz. clothes pins at Will’s. There was a very large wash,
but Mrs. S. would only take 30 cents. Mr. B. got home last night.
Sept 20/1867
A very windy & rather cool day. Mary ironed today & I took care of baby most of the time. Cut
a lot of wood, gathered more Pole beans, gathered the apples off the tree for fall.

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9

Sept. 21/1867
A nice day. Mary ironed today. I took care of the baby a good deal, sawed wood, husked corn,
& then went to the village, got Witness, bread, candles, Indigo & some shoes. In the evening we
pared & strung a lot of the fallen apples. I tried to sell some of our apples in the village but none
of the stores wanted to buy. I see in the Witness that Albert Ayer & Rebecca Hibbard were
married Sept. 9th, by Elder Arms and Joshua Hibbard.
Sept 22nd
A nice day. Had a very good Bible Class. Our lesson was Matt. V: 25 – VI: 6. There seems to be
more interest in the class and the young people are beginning to come in. The afternoon I spent
in reading. Finished the first volume of Horne and Byne,? the 2nd.
Sept 23 A cold windy day. In the morning, pulled the rest of the beans in the orchard & worked
at the wood. Lennie was so cross that one or the other had to take care of him all the time. He
has cut 3 double teeth through within a day. After dinner, went to the village & got $ ½ sugar
and come cloves at Wills. Agree with Mrs. Whitelaw for 2 bushels of apples at 50 c. Went to
Mr. B’s and got the wheel barrow and borrowed a ½ bushel measure and a bag at Brombuer’s.
About dark took the apples to Mrs. Whitelaw. They came to $1 and it is to go on the stove. I
hope they may want a lot more, for it will be an easy way to pay for it.
Got a lot of Golden Rod in to dye with. Mary was up home in the evening & they paid her $7.50
as one quarter interest on the $300. That will be 10 %, but I will not take it. I had entered it at
8 %. Mary paid what we owed then, so that now we owe nothing, except on the stove. In the
evening, peeled & strung a lot of apples.

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10

Sept 24/ 1867
A nice day. In the morning, went to the railroad tracks to get a lot of Golden Rod for Mary.
When I got home, Mrs. Bland had sent for Mary to go up & pull wool and she did not come
home till dark. Got my own dinner. Gathered a few butternuts, husked corn, brought in some
pumpkins, & the extra.
Sept 25
A nice but windy day. In the morning, cut wood & then I began to cut & pile for winter. After
dinner we all went up to Mr. Bland’s. I took home the wheelbarrow & then went to the woods &
got my mitts and came home, but Mary and the baby stayed till dark. Mary was helpful with the
wool. Husked corn, gathered apples & butternuts, &c. In the evening we peeled & strung about
a bushel of apples.
Sept 26
A cool day. In the morning, took care of the baby, cut wood, dug potatoes, &c. In the afternoon
went to the village; bought a ball of twine At P.O, Canadian Baptist, a circular from the Canada
T.T. Union; & a letter from Mrs. H. H. Smith. She says the church has started to discipline
Davis. A Mister Donovan is to move into the Parsonage soon. I pity him. She also tells about
Albert Ayer’s Marriage. In the evening we peeled and strung some apples. One of the Case’s
was married today. Mr. Bland shipped some more lambs tonight.

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11

Sept 27/1867
A very cold foggy morning, but the day was warm. IN the morning, Mary went to her father’s
and brought home a lot of hen feathers for pillows. I took care of Lennie, did chores, husked
corn, &c. After dinner, went to the village. Took ½ bushel of applies to Mr. Parsons & he paid
me for them. Bought 50 cents worth of sugar at Wills & a box of matches at Nelle’s. When I got
home, found Mrs. Dent & Hannah here; they stayed to tea & Mrs. Bland & Emma were here
also. In the evening, we picked some feathers. Got a quarter for L. from Mr. B’s.
Sept 28
A nice day. I cut wood, husked corn, played with baby, &c. Mrs. Bland went to Woodstock
today & bought baby 1 pair of socks. My Witness did not come today. Did not go to the Post
Office. Mary was up home & paid for the lamb.
Sept 29th
A very cool day. Had good bible class. Our lesson was Matthew VII: 6-13. Elder Elliott was
first to address the school and afterwards preached a long, tedious sermon from Prov. IXV: 32.
Mary brought Lennie to church & he was good till about ½ through the sermon, when he got
restless & I had to take him home. He went to sleep very soon and slept till about 3 P.M. In the
afternoon, Elder Topping & Eliza came to Mr. Bland’s and stayed to tea, but Mary would not go,
because I would not. Read some of Horne.

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12

Sept 30/1867
Last night was very cool and it froze harder than it had done this fall. I pulled some Squashes,
Pumpkins, Tomatoes, &c. Even some potatoes to cut down were brought in. Mary has been
very poorly today & not able to do much. Yesterday she took a fall & seems to have hurt her
womb & today she had a fainting spell & her back was very sore. Towards evening, she was
able to preserve the pears we got from Eliza. I did not do much today, but took care of baby. He
was a very good boy. Cut a little wood, dug some potatoes for the pigs, &c. In the evening we
pared and strung about a bushel of apples.
This is the end of Sept, nine months of 1867 are gone. It has been a cold disagreeable month.
During the months my receipts have been $58.78 & expenses $28.55 ½.
Oct 1st Was another very cold night & hard frost this morning. It has ruined some tomatoes.
Gathered in Rhubarb & Crook-neck Squashes; cut some wood, dug potatoes, &c. Gathered a
bushed & a half of Butternuts. In the evening we picked some more feathers.
Oct. 2

A dull day. Rained very heavily in the morning. Husked corn, gathered butternuts,

brought in beans, squashes & Pumpkins. In the afternoon went to the village and got my
Witness. Took the other half bushel Apples to Parson’s but Mr. P, was not at home. So I did not
get paid for them. In the evening I went up to Mr. Bland’s to a Paring Bee. Got home about 10.
It has been a year ago today since we left Abbot’s Corners and it has been a miserable year to
me. I regret that we ever came to the West and I would like to go back but Mary refuses to go. I
do not know what to do. I suppose I must give in to her mind to stay in the West or else go
without her. It causes me a great deal of anxious thought to know that to do.

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13

Oct. 3/1867
A rather nice day. In the morning, Emmons Gould & I got some Butternuts off the tree back of
the house. He got a bushel & I about ½ bushel. Went to see Mr. Canfield, agreed for some Peas
& got promised to get some butternuts in his place. After dinner Mary, baby & I went to get
some butternuts and brought home about ½ bushel. I have over 3 bushels now. This morning
Josey brought us some lamb that we had agreed to 7.42 cts. We paid for it. Mr. Bland came
home tonight. Read to Mary in the evening. A year ago today I spent most of the day in bed. It
was our first day in *M. and I felt used up. Now, I feel rather bad; my bowels are quite weak &
sore & I cannot exert myself much.

* Probably Montreal

Oct. 4
Froze hard last night, but it has been a warm day. Emmons was going on for Butternuts, but he
had to cut wood, so I put it off. Husked corn, &c. In the afternoon, went to P.O. Got a Canadian
Baptist & a letter from Annie. They will come up as soon as May if convenient for us. I must
write tonight & tell them to come at once. Lennie has been walking a good deal today. Finished
the Annual Encyclopedia today. I expect to begin on the Ministry of Methodism next. In the
evening, wrote to Mary Anne.
Oct. 5
A cool damp day. Rained very hard in the night & threatened rain all day. Husked corn, dug
potatoes, cut wood, &c. After dinner, went to the village for some bread & got the mail. Got the
Witness. I see that Hattie Watson had a baby on Sept. 30th – a daughter.
After I got home, Emmons came for me to go nutting.

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14

Oct.5/1867
We got about a bushel a piece. Got home about dark. In the evening, studied my S. S. Lesson.
Lennie has walked a good deal today. This morning I wrote to Annie & told them to come
whenever it was convenient & posted the letter in the afternoon. They will get it on Monday.
Oct. 6th
A nice day. Had a pretty good Bible Class. Our lesson was Matt. VII: 13-20. Elder Conrad
preached from Amos VII: 3. He made a poor fist of it. Mary & Lennie were at meeting. Lennie
was very good until he saw another baby had an apple & then he wanted one, & I had to take him
out. His buggy was at *Loverings & just as I was pushing it, it broke down. The handle broke &
I had to leave it there & carry baby home. Eliza & Mr. Topping were at Mr. Bland’s to dinner &
we had an invitation. Much against my will I had to go. *Poss. Hoverings
While Mr. & Mrs. B & Leonard B. were coming home from Ingersoll the King Bolt came out
and they all got thrown out. Leonard & Mr. B. are not much hurt but Mrs. B. was badly hurt.
She fell on her head and was senseless for a long time. She was cut about the face & bruised a
good deal, but I guess nothing very serious. They sent for Dr. Williams. Eliza had to stay all
night. Mary stayed till after dark, but I came home before 5. Read some in Horne & finished the
Witness.
Oct. 7
Froze hard last night. A nice day. Husked corn, & cut a little wood. In the evening, Mary went
up to see her mother & found her a little better. Eliza is to stay till Friday.

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15

Oct 8/1867
Froze hard last night. A rather pleasant day. Spent most of the day digging potatoes. Dug 6
rows of Jackson Whites & only got a little over a bushel. They are in good order, but not a good
yield. Cut a little wood. Got a letter from Annie dated this morning. She & Millie are coming
up by the noon train on Saturday, but she does not say how long they are going to stay. Mary
washed a few things today & ironed them in the evening. After tea, she went up home & stayed
till dark. In the evening I mended my jacket. Lennie has been fretful today. I expect his teeth
hurt him a good deal & makes him cross.
Oct. 9
Rained in the afternoon. In the morning Mary went up home & I cared for baby. She did not
come home till tea time. I went to the woods & got about ½ bushel of Butternuts. Got wet
through. Dug potatoes, & husked corn. In the evening we peeled & strung some apples.
Oct 10
A rainy day. Rained a little some times. Spent the day in cutting wood, digging potatoes &
husking corn. Dug 5 rows of kidney beans, potatoes & finished husking the corn that grew in the
orchard. Emma brought the Canadian Baptist from the Post Office but I had no time to read it.
In the evening we pared quite a lot of apples. Lennie has not seemed very well today. I expect
his teeth are to blame.

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16

Oct .11/1867
A nice cool day. Dug potatoes, &c. Cleaned up the woodshed. In the afternoon, went to the
P.O. and got a letter from Mrs. Scofield. Bought 2 loaves of bread. After dinner, Mary & baby
went to Mr. Bland’s. Got a bushel of peas from Canfield’s. Bargained with Mr. Parsons for
another bushel of apples. After tea, went up for Mary. They went to the social of the Methodist
S.S. Gould’s did not see fit to ask me & I did not go. They did not invite Elder Conrad, which
was an insult. I hear that Elders Baldwin, Beardsall & Topping, besides the Methodist Ministers
were asked. Eliza went home tonight.
Oct 12
A dull day. In the morning, cleaned up the woodshed, &c. Went to Mr. Bland’s to get a hind
quarter of lamb, but did not weigh it and I do not know how much it came to. Leonard went up
to Ingersoll & brought us 50 lb flour, but he has forgotten the price. About 11 A.M. I went to the
village, called at Jim Dickie’s & found that he couldn’t fix baby’s buggy. When the noon train
arrived, Annie & Millie were on it. We walked up home & left their trunk. Got the Witness from
the P.O. In it is the notice for the second time of Hattie Watson’s increase. There is also a notice
of the death of Cousin John Muir’s brother in Denver. In the afternoon we had a good time.
Leonard went to the village & I sent the apples to Mr. Parsons & Leonard brought back the trunk.
Mr. P. paid Mr. Bland for the apples. Went to the village for the buggy to get it fixed and came
home with Mr. Bland. Millie & Mary went up home for a while, & Annie & I gathered the
apples off the Russet Tree nearest the barn. Spent the evening in talking. Mr. Bland paid the 50
cents to Mary that he got from Mr. Parsons. He shipped a carload of lambs tonight.

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17

Oct. 13/1867
A nice day. Annie & Millie went to S. S. with Mary. We had about 20 in the Bible Church. It
was very interesting. Our lesson was Matt. VIII: 16-27. We have finished the sermon on the
Mount. In the afternoon we talked, read, etc. Last night I asked M. if she had determined not to
go back to the east. I asked if I would have to go alone. If I decided to go. She said yes. No more
was said about it. All night she fretted and cried over it& this morning and afternoon. The girls
noticed she was troubled about something but could not find out what. I finally talked to her
about such acting and she was more cheerful. I wonder if she thinks I have nothing to trouble me.
Well I suppose there is no help for it. I have made my bed and I must lie in it. But it is hard to
know my wife cares nothing for me or my interests when they come into collision with her
parents.- As long as my wishes are in harmonize with those of her folks, I am alright, but when
they differ, I am of no account. I feel very much cast down & discouraged about it. She will do
no way but her own, and goes nowhere but in the neighbourhood of her folks. I wish we had
never come back from the east, for I fear we will never get back there. I suppose I must submit
and do the best I can.
Oct. 14
A nice day. Worked a kittle, talked & took care of the baby Picked the apples from 3 trees; the
Snow apples, Spitzenburg & a large sweet apple. We all went up to Mr. B’s for tea,& spent the
evening.

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18

Oct.15/1867
A nice day. In the morning, gathered the apples from their trees, Russetts. In the afternoon took
care of Lennie most of the time. He has been very cross today. The girls and I took a walk to the
village. In the evening, we read talked& etc. This is the first day of the Convention Meetings in
Ingersoll. This afternoon the Regular Baptists, French Mission held its meeting & this evening, a
board meeting. If all goes well I go to see how they do in *U.C or H.C. *Poss. Upper Canada or
Hamilton
Oct. 16
Rose early, & after breakfast started for Ingersoll. Took up six quart pail & the lantern to get
fixed. When I got there found the historical society in session. At 11 A.M. Mr. Calicott gave us a
splendid sermon. The following is a skeleton Hab.111: 2. Lord revive thy work.
1. What is a revival? A quickening of believers to renewed life. Man is the greatest of all
God’s creatures-ruined by sin-renewed in glory-endured a conflict between good and evil
& grows cold-good men grieve & pray & this brings a revival.
2. Awaken the church to do his work- church means, as a means of securing advantages, as?
Improvement& then becomes lukewarm- wants to be entertained instead of benefitedbecomes awakened.
3. A labouring of the sinner is certain to accomplish this. (X) Christ came to earth & diedthe H.S. (Holy Spirit comes to help in the work-churches are organized & all the means
of grace employed.

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Oct. 16, 1867, Cont.

19
Mr. Calicott’s Sermon Outline, cont.

* Eben seemed to be using a lot of short hand, & abreviations.

11. The absolute necessity of a revival.
1. On account of the Ch? & the church does more to fit the church if it works than any other
thing- heals breaches, calls up the strength of the church-calls forth the –
calls forth the benefit of the church, the calling? of the church than any other thing- heals
breaches-calls up the strength of the church- the xialine? Of the church 2 prms on it in a more
corsiol? Who destroy the church- Rev’s 2 accts
One… In the cllituts? -of gs. More God’s Providence.
2nd

On account of the inf- on the unconte? Brings out through true charity.

3rd

On account of the inf. On communities work of God to get revival.

4th On act of infor on the universe- G angels, devils- the church – sinners.
111
Now to secure – A law of Revival, that harvest is not always- must begin with individualhumility- self examination & c ( c means with in latin ) United front, faithful per- With the
ministers-much depends on the preaching hold mtgs & c.
In the afternoon service I came home to dinner with Woods. Got some things in Ingersoll,
then went to hear a platform meeting in the evening. Got home shortly after seven and had a
pleasant evening.
Oct 17/ 1867 A beautiful day. After breakfast, Annie Millie and I started for Ingersoll. Walked
in one hour and 20 minutes. Left our things at Mr. Kneeshaw’s store. Heard of the meeting last
night. Yule’s speech was called the best of the evening. The morning work was the granting aid
to the churches.

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20

Oct. 17/1867, Cont.
Went to Mr. K’s ( Kneeshaw’s ) for dinner. Found Mr. Gold staying, though Annie’s head ached
very much, all afternoon, she was in misery.
During the afternoon, *Mr. Lewis took a view of the convention.
*Possibly the same Mr. Lewis, a photographer who had a shop in Hamilton who took photos of Eben. He lived near
the Indian Reserve and used Silver Nitrate to process his pictures. Eben said this gave them a superb finish.

The business was ‘miscellaneous. Annie’s head was so bad that we had to leave both these, but
went to the meeting. The evening meeting was splendid. The speeches and etc. were very fine &
affecting.
The report showed nearly $2,000. Raised for the mission. A collection of $51. Dollars
was taken up and then all effort was made to raise about $50. Needed for the outfit. Burgessville
Church pledged $25.
A sense of great excitement arose, and before the close of the meeting our $700. Was
pledged or paid, and they expected to make it over $1,000.
I pledged $10., payable in 6 months. The meeting broke up about midnight.
Had a visit with *Mrs. Timpany and bid them both goodbye.
Bev’s notes….*During 1867 Baptist Convention in Ingersoll, On. Rev. Americus Vespucius Timpany A. V. Timpany,
and Mrs. Jane Bates Timpany were appointed to work among the Telugus.** Full text, 40 years among the Telugus.

Felt very strongly interested. After meeting went to Mr. K’s, and got a scaln? f fur.??
Annie felt so much better that we started for home., reaching about 2 AM.
I have left to the last a subject interesting to me. During the morning, a grant of $200.
Was made to the Bothwell church provided they get a suitable pastor.

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21

Oct. 17/1867, cont.
Pratt represented that at the Convention, about 11 a.m. Mr. Scott took me aside and introduced
me to Deacon Pratt who at once asked me to come and preach with a view of settlement.
After a good deal of talk over the day, I agreed to visit them at such time as might be
convenient for them, & spend 2 Sabbaths, & see how we liked each other. Deacon Pratt
consulted Dr. Fyfe who recommended me to the field, saying all that would be against me
would be my health. I expect to visit Bothwell about the first of Nov.
Oct.18
After getting to bed about three this morning, Mary and I lay a long time talking. Slept some.
Today I picked the apples from 6 trees. Only one more is left. Had late breakfast and dinner,
& Mary and the girls went to Mr. B’s to tea. I would not go as I was too busy. Pared apples in
the evening. Studied some of my sermon for Bothwell. Xm.
Oct.19
A nice day. The girls packed their trunk. I corded it and Leonard took it to the station. About
noon we went to the station & found that the noon train east did not run on Saturdays, so the
girls had to come home. They rode with Leonard. Went to the P.O. and got three letters for
Millie, 1 for Annie, and 1 for Mrs. Bland, the Leader Tribune, & Ingersoll’s Chronicle. Paid
Mr. Dickie a quarter for fixing the baby’s buggy. Got my boot mended at Taylor’s. In the
afternoon we tried the cars again and the girls got off on the 4:45 train.
Mary was poorly in the morning, but went up home towards the evening Lennie had a fall
and nearly put his eye out. Gathered the last tree of apples today.

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22

Oct. 20
A nice day. Had good bible class. Our lesson was from Matt. V11-28-V111: 9. Elder Conrad
preached from 1 Tim. 1:12-17. Next Sabbath there is to be a missionary collection & I am to
preach the sermon. Spent the afternoon in reading and writing. Wrote five pages to Mr.
Alexander.
Oct. 21/1867
A nice day. In the morning dug potatoes, took care of baby. Mary felt quite sick and was not
able to do anything till nearly noon. In the afternoon I churned for Mary. Went to the village,
got nothing at the post office. Took Lennie in the buggy. Got another bushel of peas from
Canfield’s. It makes two bushels I owe him for. In the evening we pared a lot of apples.
Finished my letter to Mr. Alexander & will post it tomorrow.
Oct. 22
A very nice day. Rose early & started for Woodstock shortly after 7. Got there before 9.
Bought some leather shoe laces, a pair of slippers for myself & a pair of shoes for Lennie.
Got my hair cut. Went to Cull’s & left my things & then to the C.L.I. (Canadian Literary
Institute).
Had a talk with Dr. Fyfe about Bothwell & etc. Borrowed the Jubilee volume of the
A.B.M.U. * Poss. American Baptist Missionary book) & took it to McGregor’s room where I
studied it till noon. Went to Cull’s to dinner where I met Willis.
Went downtown with him where he showed me the*photos of me he took in the spring. He is
to send me a dozen-for a dollar& and I am to pay him when I get ready.

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23

*There must be dozens of photos of Eben, some from Graduation class as well as the Baptist Historical Meeting, Lewis
took a lot, and Mr. Willis, However I have never been able to find any to date, but I keep looking for them. Bev. C

Walked with him as far as Mrs. Hankinson’s where I left him & called on Mrs. H. Also called on
Mrs. Fyfe, had a very pleasant time. Mrs. Fyfe invited me to come and stay all night tomorrow.
There is to be a meeting in the Baptist church & one of the students is to give the parting hand to
Timpany. I would like to be there. As I found that there was no prayer meeting tonight I headed
home & got home about dark. I hear that the Commercial Bank has gone to smash, if that is so I
am ten dollars poorer, for I had ten dollars of that money.
Oct.23
A very cold morning, & a cold day. We intended to go to Woodstock today, but finally gave it up.
Dug potatoes; got nearly two bushels of kidnies. In the evening pared apples.
Oct.24
A very cold night, & cold day. Dug a few potatoes, but my back felt too weak, & I husked corn.
Mary went up home for a little while. Went to the village in the afternoon & got the mail; C.B. &
a Globe from Annie. In the evening, Leonard brought me two letters from Mr. Pratt. He (Pratt)
says he has arranged for me to preach the first and second Sabbath in November. Got ½ gallon of
oil at Hills. Mr. Parsons will take another bushel of apples. Mary has felt quite sick tonight. Mrs.
B got for Lennie, two pair of socks, 25 cents, and some shirts, 25 cents.
Oct. 25/1867
A nice day. Dug potatoes & husked corn. Dug a bushel of potatoes. The Chronicle came today.
Got a quarter of lamb from Mr. B. but do not know how much it is. Killed a chicken for dinner
today. It is the first we have killed. In the evening pared about a bushel of *apples.

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24

. *Apples were a staple, usually pared and dried. They seem to have been permitted to reap and sell whatever harvest of apples,
and vegetables on the land. He probably put in the garden, was very good with seed gathering, growing and trading sets of onion
varieties. Very resourceful.

Oct. 26
A nice day. Mary went to Woodstock with Mr. B. to have her teeth fixed. I took baby up to Mr.
B’s. and left him there. Finished husking the corn. Cut wood. Cracked a lot of butternuts, and
read some, etc. Mary got home in the afternoon. Had one tooth out and three filled. She
borrowed a dollar from her mother. In the evening studied at my sermon, & etc.
Oct.27
A nice day, had very good bible church. Out time was almost all taken up with the discussion of
the ‘Doctrine of the Final Perseverance of The Laity.’ Had large congregation of 170 people.
Preached from Matthew x111 8:10.
Dwelt on,
Part 1. Reason why we should give to the cause, &.11. What has been done?
The collection amounted to $10.35. In the afternoon and evening read, & etc.
Oct. 29/1867
A nice day. Cut wood, & etc. Sorted out my seed corn. Picked out the best of the ears which had
grown two on a stalk, kept them separate, also selected the best of the 12 rowed & 10 rowed &
about a dozen ears of the largest 8 rowed. Put all those aside for my own *seed next year.
*He did use these, as he planted a garden in the Bothwell churchyard with some of the local Indians.

Also selected 30 ears of the next best to send to Mr. B. for seed. All the rest I platted together &
hung up out of the way of the mice.

Rice/Campbell

25

Also shelled a few beans. Also sorted out the shelves where I keep my medicines. In the evening
we pared about a bushel of apples. Mary baked some pies today. Had another chicken for dinner.
Read some tonight.
Oct. 30/1867

Halloween

A nice day. Shelled beans, cut wood, cleared the corn husks off the barn floor, & etc. Gathered
some acorns for Mary for fancywork. Wrote to Mrs. Scofield. Fixed up the things I wanted to
take away with me. Had chicken stew for tea.
This is the last night of the month. It is Hallow E’en. In Lower Canada, it will be a great night
for the Catholics who are very superstitious. During the month, I have preached one sermon to a
congregation of 170. My receipts have been $1.00 & my expenses $8.98 ½. This is a
considerable reduction for both Receipts and Expenses for last month.
Nov. 1/1867
A very windy day. Our kitchen chimney smoked so badly as about to smother us. In the
afternoon we had let the fire go out and live in the dining room. Cut wood etc. Posted a letter to
Mrs. Scofield. Went up to Bland's for the bread the baker left us. Tonight Gould's had a Social. I
guess it will be a small affair for it is such a bad day. Expect they will be vexed we did not go to
theirs. This is my last evening at home, perhaps for several weeks.

Rice/Campbell

Nov. 2

26

BOTHWELL

Left for Bothwell. A nice day, but rather windy. Did my chores, worked at various things till it
was time to start for the cars. Mary and the baby went down with me. Checked my valise for
Bothwell so as not to be troubled with it in the cars. Met Perrin and Moore. Perrin was going to
Dorchester and to Tacoma. Had quite a pleasant trip.
Mr. Pratt met me and took me to his place. They had a Miss. Moule from London
visiting them. They are nice people. Was in the church. It is a nice place. Spent part of the
afternoon in writing out my evening sermon. Mr. Pratt is very kind and seems disposed to have
me settle. But it all depends on how I suit and the people suit me. Felt pretty tired. I wonder
how the folks at home are getting on. Mrs. Pratt has a little girl about as old as Lenny, but not so
smart.
Nov. 3
Rained most of the day. Our congregations are very small. In the morning preached from 1
Peter III: 15- to a congregation of 29. Had a small Sabbath School of 16. Taught Mr. Pratt's
class. In the evening had a congregation of 16. Mr. Pratt wanted me to preach the sermon I had
prepared, so I took the subject of Naman, and spoke for 25 minutes.
I like the place very well so far as I have see, but hope to know more of it before long. Mr. Pratt
is very sanguine that I will stay here. We have had long talks on the subject.
Nov. 4/ 1867
Cold. Snowed a little. Read. talked, started reading a book about “Coal and Coal Oil.” I find
the folks well pleased with me and anxious for me to stay.

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27

Nov. 5
Cold. Wrote 8 pages to Mary, finished plan for Sunday morning sermon. About 4 P.M., Mr. Pratt
came for us to go for a ride. He was off on business about five miles in the country and Mrs.
Pratt went with him. Had a pleasant time. Passed near the*Indian Reserve and the road over the
famous battle ground where Tecumseth was killed. In the evening Mr. Catto, Mr. Pratt and I
started to call on Mrs. Catto, but learned that the Presbyterian Elder, Captain Taylor was there so
did not go in. But we saw Mr. Catto for a few minutes on the street. Spent the evening in talking
till midnight. Mr. Pratt is a wholesome good man. He has given me a full account of affairs of
the church and his connection with them.
Nov. 6
A nice day. Finished my letter to Mary and posted it. Wrote some of my sermons. Saw Catto
for a few minutes. In the afternoon went visiting. Called on Mrs. Brake. Found her a nice
woman. Called at Mr. Brake's at his Refinery. Also called on Mr. Boon. Mrs. Pratt expected
company but the lady did not come. After Tea Mr. Pratt and I had a long walk along the railway.
Spent the rest of the evening talking.
Nov. 7
A very nice day. After breakfast Mr. Pratt gave me some directions as to roads and I set out
visiting. Went to Glass's and had a talk with them. Mrs. Glass has been confined yesterday.
Read and prayed with her. Went to Postill's and stopped to dinner. Got aquainted with Alfred a
boy about fifteen. While at dinner Mr. and Mrs. Swalwell came. Went to Carey's. Had a good
visit. Got home in time for a second Tea. Mr. Chambers and Miss. Railton were here and spent
the evening. Read the papers before going to bed.

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28

Nov. 8/67
A windy day. In the morning finished my sermon and other things. Miss Moule and Mr.
Chambers went out for a walk, but it was not very pleasant. They got back just at dinnertime. At
2:30, Miss Moule left for Detroit. Spent the afternoon in talking to Mrs. Pratt and helping Mr.
Pratt. Moved into the best room today. In the evening, we called on Mrs. Biggar. Mr. Pratt and
I had a walk. Saw one of the Pullman cars. It was very fine.
Nov. 9/1867 A nice day. Spent the morning in reading, studying, etc. In the afternoon went to
the office & etc., went for a walk with Mr. Pratt. In the evening Mr. Boon came and we had a
little singing. No letter from home yet. I began to want to hear.
Nov.10
A nice day, in the morning had a good congregation of 38. Preached from Proverbs 1-2-3, " I
will pour out my spirit upon you.” I. Why we need. II. Why we should ask. III. How to proceed
to gain. Had good Sabbath School in the afternoon, 4 teachers, 19 Scholars. Taught Mr.Pratt's
class. Had good congregation in the evening of 30. Preached from Luke XV1: 15 "Preach the
gospel to every creature." I. Who. II. To Whom. III. How.
Felt very full of zeal tonight. Preached with fervor and had a headache to pay for it. After
evening service, there was a special Church Meeting to consider the propriety of giving me the
Call. There was present Mr. and Mrs. Pratt, Mr. and Mrs Brake, Mr. Carey, Mr. Glass, Mr. Cook.
I heard they resolved by a unanimous vote to give me the Call, on my conditions: Viz- They are
to pay $400 bi-quarterly as I choose. I am to preach 2 lessons on the Sabbath in the Chapel and
hold a prayer meeting during the week. All other services are to be left to my discretion.
Tomorrow I am to meet with Mr. Pratt, Mr. Brake for the purpose of settling the matter.

Rice/Campbell

29

Nov. 11/67
A nice day. After breakfast, I sat down to write Mary, but Mr. Pratt called me over to the office
to frame the resolution that was passed by the church. After we got it to suit we took it to Mr.
Brake and he agreed to it and I agreed to accept the Call. We then returned to the office and I
wrote to Dr. Davidson and enclosed a copy of the resolution. Also wrote a draft of a notice to
send to Mr. Lloyd for the Christian Bulletin. Got home just at 1:00, found my letter unfinished.
Closed it and took it to the cars, but the train had started before I could get there. So I had to
mail it for the evening train. Got 50 cents in postage stamps. Mr. Pratt took me in and
introduced me to Captain Taylor in our Chapel. We spoke about the bible class in our Chapel.
After dinner, Mr. Pratt, Mrs. Cook, Archie and I went for a ride with the ponies. Went to Carey's,
Postill's, Glass'. Had to hurry home for Tea. Mr. Pratt had a telegram from Toronto tonight, and
he and Mrs. Pratt started tonight by the 9:50. I met Lloyd and changed my address to Bothwell
and asked him some questions about books. Sent a letter by Mr. Pratt.
They have left me in charge of the house till they return, which will be Thursday. This morning
Mr. Pratt gave me $2 on account as he thought that I might need some money before he got back.
After Tea, we went to see the man who had the lease on the house of Mr. Laughton's, a Mr.
Whiting, and we got the house for now till the first of January for $6. Mr. Pratt paid him at once
and got the key. We then went to Laughton's and I was introduced to him. We are to agree about
the house tomorrow. Got a letter from Mary, she and the baby are well. She is willing to come
here if I wish. She will come at once.

Rice/Campbell
COPY OF THE CALL

30
Nov. 10 1867

Letter to Rev. T. L. Davidson, D.D
Dear Sir:
As you were informed by Mr. Pratt's letter, I have been visiting and preaching to the
Bothwell Church with a view of settlement. At a special church meeting held last evening, they
gave me a unanimous Call to become their Pastor. This Call I have accepted with the proviso
that your Board received me as its Missionary and the manner now rests with the Executive
Board. I would like to ask in what manner I must come before the Board? Must I appear in
person at Hamilton which would be very inconvenient and expensive? Must I present a request
from this church for you to receive me? Or must I furnish you with certificates from Ministers
and other leading men in our denomination? I could refer you to Drs. Stewart, Fyfe, and
Alexander. Also to the Registers from 1866 & 1867, in which you will see that I was for two
years a regular missionary at the Convention East, only leaving their employ on account of
failing health.
In regards to the subject of Mr. Pratt's letter, I may state that it would be folly to keep the
Zone Church as a separate body, and that the best plan would be to make the Grant to Bothwell
alone, and let the Bothwell Church and Pastor make their own terms with Zone.
If you wish any further information on the relationship of the two churches’ prospects in
Bothwell, I shall be happy to furnish it. Suffice it to say that there is every prospect of success
to a minister who will devote the whole or the greater part of his time to this field. There is
something inserted at the request of Mr. Pratt.
Eben Muir Rice A. Pratt.

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31

Nov. 12/1867
A cold windy day. This morning after breakfast, went to office and wrote to Mr. Pratt enclosing
some wool they had forgotten. Also wrapped up, directed and posted a couple of papers for him.
Went with Carter to Depot and attended to apples. Did not get a shipping list as Dixon was busy.
Posted a letter to Miss. Urquhart from Mrs. Pratt. Came home and wrote to Dr. Fyfe, Richards,
and Northrop. After dinner went over to see Mr. Laughton and went all over the house. He is to
fix the plaster, etc. then called on Mrs. Oman. Went to the office and read the papers, then to the
post office, posted my letters, and paid a quarter rent for a box. Paid 25 cents and got Box 91.
Came home and wrote to Mary, a long letter of twelve pages. Started to write to Mrs. Smith after
Tea, but Mrs. Catto came in and we had a long talk about various subjects till after eleven
o'clock.
Nov. 13/ 1867 Had a very slight sprinkle of snow early this morning, but it seems to have snow
heavily to the east, for the cars have been covered with snow. A nice day. Wrote to Mrs. Smith.
Drew out plans for two sermons. Went to the station and got a shipping list for those apples.
Called at Mr. Bents, to get him to whitewash for me, but he is not home. Asked for the church
key, but they did not have it, it is at Brake's. Called on Mrs. Brake, got the key. I am to keep it.
When I came home found telegram from the Pratts asking how Lizzie was and how we got
along. Wrote a letter and posted it to the Royal Hotel, Hamilton, but lest he missed it, I
telegraphed. After dinner I called on Miss. Pellett and Miss. Roe. Came home and started
writing a sermon. Went over and called on Mrs. Cook. After Tea, went out and visited at
Cowan's. Finished one of my sermons today. Have been very busy all day. feel quite tired. Got
my letter from home, and feel lonely. I wish I could see them all again. Baby is 15 m old today.

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32

Nov. 14/67
A nice day. Wrote to Annie in the morning. Worked a little at my sermon. Did not visit any.
Got my C.B. but no letter. I don't see why Mary doesn't write. I began to feel very lonesome.
By Tea I had the blues bad, but in the evening I went down to the trains, and sure enough Mr. and
Mrs. Pratt came home. I was so glad to see them. It livened me up a good deal. Inquired about
stoves. They are very dear. A small one is $2.25.
Nov. 15
A cold raw day. Studied some. Called on Mrs. Berryman. Got Heck to come over and look at
the house. He is to whitewash the ground floor. Have not felt very smart today. Got no letter.
Nov. 16
A clear cold day. Wrote a sermon in the morning. In the afternoon read Mick Tracy. Mrs. Cook
went home today. Got letter from Mary. All well. Saw Catto. Warden gave me a scolding last
night. I got quite angry. Warden is vexed at my attending the Committee Meeting for the Bible
Study. Warden was there but never came near me to be introduced.
Nov. 17
A nice day. In the morning preached from Luke XIII: 24- Had congregation of 36. Old Mrs.
Coutts of Birkhall was at the meeting. After meeting, we came home together, and my letter of
acceptance was read, and a letter was granted to Mr. Massett. Our Sunday School had its usual
attendance, 4 teachers and 19 Scholars. In the evening, preached from Luke IX: 23 to a
congregation of 42. Hear that Warden presented a sermon on Baptism from the story of the
Philippian Jailer. He came down hard on us Baptists, and gave us an awful chafing. It will do
him more harm than us.I may as well here insert a copy of my reply to the Call of the church.

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33

To Deacon A. R. Pratt, & Brother J. B. Brake
Dear Brethren
I beg to acknowledge the receipt of your hands of the Resolution, passed at the Church
Meeting last Sabbath, giving me a Call to the Pastorate of the Bothwell Regular Baptist Church.
I feel gratified that the church has such confidence in me as to invite me to fill this important
office, and I hope that our future intercourse may give them no cause to regret the step. I think I
can trace the hand of God in bringing about my connection with the Bothwell Church. In every
step it has given me among his people, and believing that He has work for me to do in Bothwell,
I have no hesitation in accepting the Call of the church provided the Missionary Convention
accepts me as its Missionary.
As your Pastor I shall expect the hearty sympathy and support of the church, and by the
aid of Spirit, I shall endeavour to devote my powers of body and mind to advancing your
interests as a church. Trusting that our relation as Pastor and people may prove a blessing to all
concerned and desiring you to communicate my answer to the church, I remain Dear Brethren,
Your fellow labourer,
Eben Muir Rice

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34

Nov. 18/67
A nice, but cold day. Mrs. Pratt gave me a letter for Miss. Moule to leave in London. Mr. Pratt
paid me $20 on my salary. Was too late to get a ticket, but paid more. Left the letter for Miss
Moule & went up to Mrs. Douthwaite's where I had dinner and stayed till 3 P.M. Asked about
Victoria, but found she is no to be trusted, so I did not go to see her. Had pleasant trip back to
Beachville. Cost $1.95. Mary did not meet me. When I got home found that she had been up to
see her mother who was very sick. Lennie has had cold. Dear little fellow he clung to me.
Straightened up accounts &c, but did not do any work of any kind. X~

Nov. 19
A cold day. Went up to Mrs. B.'s after breakfast. Elder Conrad called to invite me to a Tea
Meeting in Beachville Chapel tonight & left tickets for Mary and I. Went to the village and
agreed with Nellis for some boxes and barrels. Called at Whitelaw's, arranged about the stove.
Also arranged with Canfield, I owe him $6 for six months pasture and $41.40 for 2 bushels of
peas, & he owes me $4 for Barnes Notes, leaving me his debtor $3.40 who I am to pay at Xmas.
Felt unwell all day. Posted letter to Mr. Pratt. Went to the meeting & spoke. Came home right
after my speech. Mary and I & Lennie all are nearly laid up with colds. X~

Nov. 20
Another busy day & felt very poorly. Worked hard at getting things ready for packing. Packed
books, sewing machine, etc.

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35

Nov. 21/67
A nice day. Killed 21 chickens today. Leonard killed most of them & Mary cleaned them, a long
tedious job. Very busy today. Mr. Topping came for Eliza & took her home. Gave them our
grease. Mr. Topping is to take our cow and keep her for the winter. Agreed with Mr. Bland to let
Brown settle with him for the rent. Mr. B. left for New York tonight. Went up there for tea and
stayed all night.
Nov. 22
Worked at the house all day & had no breakfast or dinner. Mary went to the village in the
morning and hired Mrs. Allen to clean house. Went to Canfields and engaged him to take my
goods to the station this afternoon. About one P.M he came with a team and hired man and they
took three loads. Went with last load and attended to the shipping. Had in all: –

SEPARATE LIST OF HOUEHOLD GOOD OF REV. EBEN MUIR RICE 1867 BOTHWELL

SCROLL DOWN

Rice/Campbell

36

SEPARATE PAGE LIST OF HOUSEHOLD GOODS REV. EBEN MUIR RICE 1867
Household Contents List
6 Cane seat chairs
2 bedsteads
4 Barrels apples
3 trunks, 2 with dishes, sundries, one of books
! Box books
1 Box Pork
Sewing Machine
1 Case sundries
2 Tables
2 Washstands
Cookstove
Parlor stove
Boiler
1 Nest pots
2 Fry Pans
Bureau
Carpet
14 lengths Pipe
1 Roll Bedding
Tub of sundries
Bag of nuts
Crock
2 Crocks in pail
1 Keg
1 Bundle tools
1 Box
All in all 3,140 Pounds. I paid $8.16, plus $1.54.
Called at Nellis & settled with them & at the post office. Came home and worked away till Tea
then to Mr. B's. After Tea, I came back alone to finish.

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37

Nov. 23/67
Last night I worked away till nearly 2 A.M. when I had to quit before my candle was burned out.
Felt very tired. Got to bed after 2. Today has been dull and gloomy. After breakfast went to the
house and finished packing. Leonard took the things to the station and paid $1.54 on them.
There were 2 crocks, 1 keg, 1 box 1 Bundle tools, 2 Barrels, apples1 bag nuts, in all 665 pounds.
Bid Canfield’s, Conrad & Gould’s goodbye. Mr. Canfield would like nothing for carting my
goods.
Mr. Gould charged me 32 cents for Emmons taking my cow to Mr. Topping’s yesterday, so that
were straight now. The house is empty, xcept a few things going to Mr. B.’s 31/2 dozen eggs are
for Mrs. B. The corn flour is for them & between 7 or 8 cords of wood. The dried apples are to
be sold in Ingersoll. Leonard took Mary and I to Ingersoll in time for the train. I brought with me
the maps and sewing machine. Mary is to come on Wed. Had pleasant trip. Felt very tired. Found
letter from Dr. Davidson. Things are alright so far as he’s concerned. Did nothing this afternoon
but read and talk. Mr. Urquhart came tonight to spend Sabbath. xm.
Nov. 24
A nasty wet day. Felt very poorly. Preached from Rev. 111: 20: Had small Sunday School of 15.
In the evening Torrance preached. Had small congregation & small collection. Torrance came
home to stay with me.
Nov. 25/1867
Rained all night. A miserable drizzly day. In the morning went to see Heck about whitewashing.
Called at the R.R. & found that y goods had come. Called at Catto’s, I arranged & arranged for a
team. After dinner left for Newbury. Catto’s boy and a lad named Smith came to bring the goods.

Rice/Campbell

37

There were four loads, that came without much apparent damage Heck finished white washing
this afternoon & Mr. Pratt paid him $4. For it. After tea unpacked the chickens and found them
alright and put them in salt. Bought small lamp & ¼ bushel salt at Laughton’s. Arranged for
some women to do my house cleaning. Got letter from Mary. They could not get the stove or
batting. In the evening Mr. Pratt showed me a carpet that the church folks had brought for me for
our parlor. It is very pretty and all made up ready to put on the floor.
Nov. 26
This morning Mrs. Berryman & a Mrs. Katten came to clean house. I got the tinsmith to cut a
length of pipe, & then got a fire in the stove Took a barrel load of wood from Mr. Pratt’s as mine
had not come. Set the women to work in the study first. They cleaned it thoroughly & a window
in one of the bedrooms, & then went into the parlor, & cleaned it. This kept them till night. A
man brought me a load of wood. A man brought me a load of wood today. Got bar of soap at
Laughton’s. Unpacked the box of cherries & etc. crocks, box of books & part of another box.
Picked over the cones & etc. Tomorrow intend to put down the carpet. Called on Catto tonight,
but his wife would not take any pay for hauling my goods. Archie & Mr. Urquhart left for home
this afternoon.
Nov. 27/1867
Had plenty of work today. Had the women at work. They cleaned all the house except the dining
room and kitchen Had Boone put down the parlor carpet. Unpacked almost all the goods, except
a large case. The house looks more like a settlement. About 12 went over to Mr. Pratt’s and got
some lunch, then started for Newbury. Got there about 1:30. Met Mary & baby. Had diner about
3 P.M. Mary was pleased with the carpet.

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39

Nov.27/67
Bought two papers, leathered tacks. Paid the women $1.80 for house cleaning. Did not work any
after dark. It was the evening of the Baptist Bible Study meeting & we went to it. Mary did not
go. It rained and it was quite dark, but the house was pretty full. Elliott conducted the opening
exercises. Then Mr. Goldsmith moved the first Resolution & I seconded it. My speech was short.
Elliott moved the second resolution and it was seconded by Warden. Elliott’s speech was a mess
of high falutin trash: Warden’s speech was good, that is, the material was good, but the manner
was bad, it had every appearance of being an old sermon Goldsmith gave a very fine address, but
both he & Warden gave a slap at the Baptists.
Nov. 28
A dull day. Worked hard all day. Unpacked all but the sewing machine & the barrels. Got Mary’s
trunk up today. Bought three mats for 30 cents, Worked on my sermon in the evening.
Nov. 29/1867
A wet day. The woman came to clean today, but I was not ready, so she is to come tomorrow.
Worked at the house all day. Unpacked the furniture, took the pork out of the salt & opened 3
barrels of apples. Unpacked Mary’s trunk, one plate three cups, & 2 egg cups of the china are
broken. Have the dining room all ready for the woman. In the afternoon it turned to snow &
became very cold. It is a cold night. Have not got my sermon ready yet for Sabbath. Mr. Pratt
was in London today for an hour or so. All the furniture is good except for a few scratches & the
varnish rubbed a little.

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40

Nov. 30/67
A busy day. Last night was very cold & I was afraid that our apples could freeze, but this
morning I found them untouched. Mrs. Katten worked at the house today, cleaned dining room &
kitchen and passage & black coated the stove. Paid her 50 cents. Mary *came over and tacked
down two breadths of carpet in the bedroom.
* Mary and baby Lennie are stayed at Pratt’s till the house was in order. Mary was five months
pregnant at that time.
I re-salted and packed down the pork, cleared out the bedroom, cut wood, & etc. Mary got ten
yards of cotton at Laughton’s for window blinds Went to boon to make me some rollers& to the
hardware store to get some brasses, but they were so dear I didn’t get any. In the evening, went to
the house and tacked up 4 blinds. To make things look better. Finished some sermons. Wrote to
Mr. Bowers asking about stoves. This is the last day of the month.
During the month my receipts have been $32.50 & my expenses & $58.76. I have preached 7
sermons, & the congregations averaging 27 2/7. I have made 17 visits & have travelled
25 ½ miles. Our Sunday School has been an average attendance of 4 teachers & 17 ¼ student
Dec.1/1867

Sabbath

A cold day, but not so cold as yesterday. Mr. P was very poorly so I went over to attend to the
fires, but found Boon’s girl at it. In the morning preached from 1 Cor11:2. To a congregation of
27. After service had a short church meeting & settled to have the Lord’s Supper next Sabbath
morning, the prayer meeting every Wednesday, & the installation of the Deacons at the first
Communion. Mr. Carey came to Mr. Pratt’s for dinner. We had a long talk with him about the
preaching status.

Rice/Campbell

BOTHWELL

41

Dec. 1/67, Cont
He seemed to feel put out. I opposed giving up our morning service here, but was willing to go to
T. S.H. ( prob. The School House. Carey’s.) once a month, or once a fortnight in the afternoon if
they will bring me back and forth. As to Zone, I would not agree with them about anything until
they came to me themselves. Had a small Sunday school, 3 teachers & 16 scholars. Had
congregation of 23 in the evening & preached from 1 Kings XV 111: 21. Catto was there and I
left him to get alone by himself. After service we had a walk and a long talk about his
difficulties. He seemed yet undecided what to do. My morning hymns were 270,411.271. My
evening hymns were 32 Supp. 433, 41 Supp.
Mary has been unwell all day& as usual I have been very much depressed in spirit. Truly did
Elder Chandler say that I was taking a great burden on when I married a sickly wife. God help
me from sinking beneath the load of care and trouble which presses so heavily on me. It is
enough to kill any ministerial labour. It is wearing on me very fast. My health and spirits sink
when I look upon my weary prospects. It is sorrowing me very much, & makes me fretful and
cross. O that I might have grace to bear what comes, when losing my extra grace and fretting
myself to death. I love my wife & yet her weak fretful state makes me fretful. She has no energy,
no desire to be well, but is perfectly content to drag along as she is, & my heart fails at the
thought of the weary dreary future. God help me.
*It seems immediately he settled all the local Baptist churchmen are trying to get him to take extra services with no remuneration.
He has not rested before he is asked to go to Florence, Newbury, and Zone after he preached in Bothwell. Bothwell church alone
would have been enough work, with a pregnant wife, small child, moving to a new house with a heart condition .

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42

Dec. 2/67
A mild day. In the morning wrote a little and then was called to the office to see *Mr. Eberlee. He
came on behalf of the Zone church to see if they could get me to preach once a fortnight on
Sabbath afternoon. But he was not prepared to offer any terms on the part of the church.
*Bev Campbell met a Mr. Eberlee at Chatham Baptist church in 2009. He was an elderly gentleman in his 80’s, who said, the Mr.
Eberlee in Zone was his grandfather. Bev told him that, (later on in the diary) Mr. Eberlee had nearly cut half his foot off with an
axe while chopping wood. A Dr. Roe attended and Rev. Rice prayed with him. He recovered.

I could not pledge myself to any course. I told him to tell the church that if I had to keep a horse,
I should expect $2.00 a year from Zone and Carey’s. If they are not willing to do this I should
expect them to raise what they could & bring me back and forth. At the same time I would
prefer to preach once a week evening if that would suit them. They are to have a church meeting
on Sabbath when they will bring up the matter.
In the afternoon we worked at the house. We laid down the dining room carpet and settled
the dining room. Received a letter from Mr. Bowers in which he said he will give me one or two
stoves, 24 inch at $5.00 each. & wait my time of payment. Mr. Pratt received a letter from Lince
enclosing a photo of me & one of himself. Received my Witness. After tea Mr. Pratt & I called
on Catto for a couple of hours.
Dec. 3
A nice day. Was hard at work all day. In the morning went to Roseburgh’s and ordered a lot of
piping & he promised to send,& he is to put it up in the afternoon, but he did not come till
evening. After I got back, wrote to Mr. Bowers, ordering one box stove. Worked at setting
things to rights. Got the sewing machine put together. Went into town and orders a bushel
potatos at Clark’s. Also bought two loaves of bread at the bakers. Mr. Cowan called to say we
could have the use of his stoves, as they were not going to use it this winter.

Rice/Campbell
Dec. 3/Cont.

43

I got Catto’s team to bring it for me. Lennie fell and hit his head badly. He seems to be unwell
today. We intended to stay to tea, but Mr. Pratt would have us go there. But we are to stay here
all night. Sent Mr. Pratt the first books by Mr. Hollick. In the evening straightened up my
accounts to date.
Dec. 4/1867
A pleasant day. Worked hard all day, but very little to show for it. Wrote to Uncle George,
enclosing a blank receipt for my quarters allowance. Gave him a sketch of the prospects, and
asked him for a gift. Towards paying off our debts on the church. The potatoes came this
morning. Called on Mr. Pratt, brought away my bottles. Everything is done for the house now.
In the afternoon, unpacked two barrels of apples & sorted them out. Found quite a few
speckled.
Cut a lot of wood today. This was the evening of our prayer meeting. Mrs. Book had lighted the
fire,& I lit the lamps. Mr. & Mrs. Pratt, Mr. Cowan, Mrs. & Maggie Boon, and I made the
meeting. (6). Had a short meeting. Got a gallon of oil at Laughton’s today.
Dec. 5
A pleasant day. Mrs. Boon sent over some milk, & said that she would call in that afternoon but
she did not come. Worked hard all day. Had some of the Hubbard Squash for dinner, it was very
good. Mary cooked one of the pig’s heads for dinner. It was very nice. Selected the hymns for
Sabbath & after dinner took them over to Mr. Pratt. Got. C.B. at P.O. and my church letter from
Ingersoll. My stove has not yet come. Bought small chair for baby at Boon’s for 62 ½ cents.
Called to get Mrs. Berryman to work for us tomorrow. In the evening, read, wrote, etc.

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44

Dec. 6/67
Had Mrs. Berryman here today cleaning tins, etc. Got bread this afternoon. Worked around the
house during most of the day. Wrote a sermon on 1 Cor. 1:24 & part of one on Matt. X1X: 16.
After tea, called on Cowan’s people for a while.
Dec. 7/1867
All yesterday there was a high wind, & today it has been higher if such were possible. During the
morning, I was busy with my German, & etc. Went to the R.R. and found my stove & left word
for Adkins to bring it up. Went to Rosebrugh’s & asked him to come and fit up the stoves.
Bought a fire shovel & pokers from him. In the afternoon, cut a lot of wood, & etc. Got $2. from
Mr. Pratt, and ordered 25 “ (pounds) of flour from Clark’s, which came in this evening. Adkins
brought the stove and I paid 52 cents freight and cartage. A man brought me a load of wood
towards evening. There was 1 1/8 cord. It’s splendid Maple, good length, and not very green.
After tea, Mr. Rosebrugh and Tallman, came and fixed the parlor stove & the study stove.
Wrote to Lince, inviting him to call on me. Wrote to Dr. Davidson. The following is a copy of the
letter to Dr. Davidson.
All yesterday there was a high wind, & today it has been higher if such were possible. During the
morning I was busy with my sermon, &c. Went to the R.R. and found my stove, left word for
Adkins to bring it up. Went to Rosebrugh’s & asked him to come and fit up the stoves. Bought a
fire shovel & pokers from him. In the afternoon cut a lot of wood, etc. Got $2. From Mr. Pratt, &
ordered 25” flour from Clark’s. which came in the evening. Adkins brought the stove, & I paid
52 cents freight and cartage.

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45

Dec.7/67, Cont.
A man brought me a load of wood towards evening. There was 11/8 cord. It’s splendid
maple, good length and not very green.
After tea, Mr. Rosbrugh and Tallman and fixed up the parlor stove and the study stove.
Wrote to Lince inviting him to call on me. Wrote to Mr. Davidson. The following is a copy of the
letter to Mr. Davidson

DR. DAVIDSON’S LETTER IS ON A SEPARATE PAGE

SCROLL DOWN

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46

Bothwell
Dec.7/1867
Rev. T.L. Davidson D.D.
Dear Sir;
When your letter arrived in Bothwell, I was from home, making arrangements for moving my
family to this place. Since my return, the hurry and hustle of moving, getting into a new house,
and setting things in order, together with the necessary study required for two sermons each
Sabbath, have all kept me very busy.
Indeed this evening is the first leisure time I have had since the receipt of your letter, and
this must be my apology for apparent neglect.
As to the subject touched upon in your letter, I may briefly refer to them in order.
1st, as to Zone. Mr. Pratt and myself have been bothered by that church in regard to the grant
from the Convention. But the matter was settled by referring to your letter. I have been applied to
preach to Zone church but have declined to commit myself as yet for these reasons.
1st. I wished to consult with you.
2nd. I did not wish to oust Mr. Lince who preaches there every fortnight.
3rd. The church was not prepared o come to any terms of agreement, and I find that I had already
fulfilled your request for advice as I had accepted the pastorate and had engaged in the work. I
ma much obliged to you for your confidence in me. Both myself and the church will do what is
required of us, in time, for the Board Meeting in January. Brother Prat has turned over to me the
blank reports, and I will attend to filling them out in due time.

Rice/Campbell
Dc.7/67 Cont.

47
Letter to Dr. Davidson

4th As to the subject of salary, I am writing to leave it entirely in the hands of the Board, knowing
this I will suffer no injustice at their hands.
Several questions have come up lately, in regards to this field and surrounding
neighbourhoods, which demand attention. Bro Pratt and myself have talked them over, and are
in accord on the subject. It is my intention to send you a full report, between now and the New
Year in regards to the Baptist churches and preaching stations, & etc. leaving you to make what
use of the report you may judge best. At present I am not prepared, but I am gathering from all
sources, all materials suitable for my purpose. I hope to meet Bro Lince and consult with him in
regard to the field, in a few days.
Meanwhile I may assure you that it is my intention to devote the greatest share of my
time and effort to Bothwell, and its’ church, and if the convention would uphold me in the matter,
I would confine myself entirely to Bothwell, so convinced I am of the possibility of raising up a
good cause here, if the field were properly cultivated.
Trusting shortly to address you again, and wishing you success in the performance of
your laborious duties,
I remain, Dear Brother, your fellow labourer.
Eben M. Rice.

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48

Dec. 8/1867
A cold day. Felt quite poorly all day. Had a heavy cold and felt miserable. Preached in the
Morning from 1 Cor. X1:24. This do in remembrance of me. Hymns 835, 846, 844. Had
congregation of 28. Had congregation after meeting when Mr. Pratt gave me the right hand of
fellowship.
In the afternoon our Sunday School was small, only ten scholars.
In the evening preached from Matt. X1X, 16 to a congregation of 25. Hymns 115, 3437,
and 35 sup. Mr. Boone sent a present of a very nice roast of beef.
Dec. 9/67
Wrote to Perrin on the church matter ^ the following is a copy of the letter.
SCROLL DOWN
After 2015, some typing was done as there were missing bits that had been fixed March 2019.
Bev Campbell
***NB to all readers:
ALL correspondence has been typed on separate page to print off and filed in a binder.

Rice/Campbell
Dear Bro Perrin;

49
Bothwell Dec. 9/1867

Excuse me troubling you with a letter of inquiry. But there where a few questions related to the
Baptist cause in this section that I would like to have answered, and you are the most competent
to answer them of any person of my acquaintance.
1st In regard to the Florence Church. What is the membership? What is the size of the
congregation? What are then prospects of having a strong church? What do they pay a as general
thing?
2nd As to Carey’s School House. What size congregation did you have? Do they pay anything
and if so how much. Is there any prospect of adding to the Baptist strength by preaching there?
Would it be best to organize a sperate church, or have it a station in connection with some
other church?
To which of the three churches, Bothwell, Euphemia, or Florence, does it literally
belong? As to Zone Church. What were your average congregations? Do they constitute as much
as they ought for ministerial support. Would it be better to dissolve the church and bring it’s
members to Bothwell and Florence?
Please give me your guidance on the subject during the present week. Being settled here
for the time, I naturally desire to learn all I can about the surrounding districts. I prefer applying
to you, for as an un-prejudiced observer, you will be more likely to give a correct opinion on the
subject.
Anything you may say in your reply will be in all confidence and will not be used in any
way that might at all result to your disadvantage in the mind of any. You can therefore freely
speak your mind about the several questions proposed.

Rice/Campbell
Dec.9/1867

50
LETTER TO BRO LINCE, cont.

Trusting that I may not be trespassing on your good- nature, sending kind remembrances to any
of my old schoolfellows still at the Institute.
I remain with kind regards to yourself and Mrs. Perrin,
Yours in Christ.
Eben M. Rice.

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51

Dec. 9/67
Have been busy today. Felt some better. Worked some at drawing up plans for sermons
suggested to me last night. Helped take care of Lennie, read papers &etc. Wrote to Perrin and in
afternoon went to the office and let Mr. Pratt read the letter to Perrin & Davidson. I am to keep
an account of all the letters which I wrote on church matters, & he will pay the postage every
quarter. Called at Boone’s to see about going to Newbury on Thursday.
Dec. 10
A nice day. Spent the morning in cutting wood, & also most of the afternoon. Mr. Pratt showed
me a letter received from Carey in which he asked to withdraw his letter from the church, but no
reason given in the letter. We suppose he is vexed that he couldn’t have his own way. Small loss
if he does.
After tea Mr. Pratt and I went to Catto’s and engaged him to go to the concert at Newbury
on Thursday. When I got home, found Mrs. Boone here& we had a good talk. Mrs. Roe & Pellet
called on Mary this afternoon.
Got the glass from Mclaughton today to glaze the broken panes. Went to Rosebrughe’s
and got a lid & damper for that stove of Cowan’s.
Dec 11
A nice day. Mrs. Berryman washed for us today. Went to te planning mill and got 2 pieces of
batting each 16 feet for 14 cents for props for the clothes line. Spent a good while in making a
new saw horse.
Mrs. Brake called on Mary today, & and brought a small china mug for the baby. She
paid me 37 1/2 cents for A British Workman & a Globe reaper for children.

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52

Dec. 11/1867, cont.
Called on Mrs. McCallum, formerly Miss. Adamson. Mr. & Mrs. Pratt are away to Detroit today.
Our prayer meeting was small, only 3. Received Witness today. Also later from Uncle George
enclosing a Post Office order for forty dollars. Mary wrote to her mother.
Dec.12
A very cold windy day. Spent the morning in reading, etc. Called on Mrs. And left the hymns.
Called at the P.O. to get the $48. (money order) or (on the order) & enclosed $20. In the letter
to Mrs. Bland to pay on my rent. Called on Mr. Pratt and had a long chat with him. After dinner
worked around a little till towards five when I went to the P.O. but got no mail. Then went to
Boon’s for tea. After tea Mr. Pratt called for us with Mr. Catto’s team, & Catto for driver. Mrs.
Pratt had decided to stay at home. Had a very cold drive to Newbury. When we got there found
a very poor affair. The hall was shabby, the audience small and rough &c. the music was
dreadful. It consisted of music by the brass band, singing by the Newbury choir, & singing by the
Moravian choir. The brass band consisted of 6 brass instruments & the drum, but the music was
very common, though tolerably performed. The Newbury band consisted pf 4 young ladies, 1
ady to play the Melodeon, & 4 gentlemen, they too sang pretty well, but simple pieces. The
Moravian choir were 4 Indians boys of 18 to 21& 2 women, a soft stupid looking set. Their
singing was in harmony with their looks.
It was abominable. It was impossible to tell what they said. We stood it till about a quarter past
nine, & then started for home perfectly disgusted. Had a more comfortable ride home. It was a
perfect sell and is my last trip to Newbury for any such thing.

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53

Dec.13/1867
A nicer day than yesterday. I was not so cold. Mrs. Berryman came and ironed for us today.
During the morning, I wrote to Mr. Whitelaw, Mr. Campbell & Mr. Lloyd. Mr. Pratt was in both
morn and afternoon. In the afternoon & evening wrote out a sermon on Mark V111: 36 mostly
a copy of an old one of subject. Cut some wood & went into town. Got a $10. Bill changed at
Laughton’s and received 30 cents exchange. Mary has been better today. Had Sarah Golan come
today to hire. I told her what we needed & what we would pay. Got C.B. from the P.O.
Dec. 14th
A pleasant day. Spent the day in writing. Copied some writing. I wrote a sermon on Exek.
XXX ( 37) 111: 7, on Ministerial Responsibilities. Mrs. Pratt was here all day learning to sew.
Received letter from Mr. Perrin. Went to Mr. Pratt’s for a few minutes. About dark, Mr. Carey
called & left a piece of beef for roasting, and a ham & piece of pork. He said he was not to
charge me anything for it. After he was gone, took it over to Laughton’s to weigh it. The beef
weighed 13 pounds, the pork 15 ½. In the evening Sarah Golan called to say that Mrs. Collier
would not let her go. I had learned before that Mrs. Collier had agreed to pay her $4. Per month
and that seems to be what she wanted.
Dec. 15/1867

SABBATH

A nice day. In the morning had congregation of 24 & preached from Mark V111: 36. A Mr.
Walker, a member from Euphemia was there & came to dinner with me. In the afternoon had
Sunday School of 4 teachers & 12 Scholars. In the evening had small congregation of 19.
Preached from Ezek. XXX111:7. After Sunday School we agreed to try and raise money to get
Sunday School papers for every Sabbath. It will take about $10. extra money.

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54

Dec.16/1867
A nice day. Worked about the house all day. Went to the lumberyard and got some lumber and
paid 30 cents, rigged up a piece to hang the pork on. Cut a little wood. Set two panes of glass.
Got $10. Bill changed & sent Mr. Whitelaw $6. To pay for the stove, Also Mr. Canfield, $3.40. to
settle our account. Mary got some things at the store, & I bought a box of figs for Lennie, Had
call from Mr. Cook. Boon has not got my tables, bedstead or rollers done yet. Got map of the oil
regions & Mr. Pratt is to pay. Mary went to see Mrs. Berryman today to try to get her to come
& live here. She seemed favorable to the idea, but would not give a decided answer till the end
of the week.
Dec. 17th
Snowed a little in the night & then rained all day. I intended to go to Carey’s but the weather
prevented. Spent the morning at home, & afternoon visiting& Mrs. Pratt came in the morning,&
I hunted through my books for something she wanted. Just as I got through, Mr. Lince came and
stayed all afternoon till after dinner. Had a long talk with him. He is a nice man. Went to
Roseburgh’s and paid him for the things I had got.
The amount was $9.57, but I had only, $8. 57. I paid that & he said I need not mind the rest, that
would do. Called on old Mrs. Boon & read & prayed with her. Called at Boon’s, but he had not
anything ready for me yet. Received letter from Annie. All well. Also from Whitelaw, saying he
had got the $6., also Witness.
Tonight is the anniversary of my conversion 9 years ago in the Methodist Episcopalian Church in
Ingersoll, I became a Christian. Wrote to Mr. Brown (my landlord) as follows.
LETTER ON SEPARATE PAGE..

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55

Dec.17/1867
LETTER TO MR. BROWN
Dec. 17/1867

Bothwell

Dear Sir;
You will have heard I have left your house in Beachville, and may perhaps wonder why I have
not written to you about it. Please accept my following explanations.
I left Beachville in a great hurry. It has been my intention to stay there all winter, or at least to
leave my family there. But I received an invitation to visit the Bothwell Baptist Church. I did so.
The result was a Call to become Pastor, which I accepted. I was then urged to remove my family
to Bothwell as soon as possible. I wrote to Mrs. Rice to get things ready for packing up, and I
would come down, see to shipping the goods, call on you, and settle for the rent. When I got to
Beachville I found nothing prepared. Mrs. Rice on account of her illness, and that of the baby,
and also a sudden illness of her mother, had done nothing at all. I had then to see to procuring
packages, sorting over and arranging & packing my goods, and shipping them. With all this I
was quite sick, scarcely able to stand. It was still my intention to call on you Friday. But the
packing up progressed very slowly, and it was after ten o’clock Saturday morning before the last
of my goods were shipped. I then had only time to catch the train to bring me back to Bothwell
for my Sabbath appointment. Before, leaving Beachville, I made arrangements with my fatherin-law to settle with you for the rent, when you called for it. I also arranged with my wife, who
remained behind a few days, to visit you on the Monday to settle with you. But it rained Monday
and Tuesday, and on Wednesday, she followed me to Bothwell. On her arrival, I learned of her
failure to see you. Since then, I have been so busy that I have been prevented writing you before.
As to the house, of course you could hold me, at least morally, for the rent till next May. But I
would be very much obliged to you if you would take it off my hands.
If you wish me to pay you something for this, in addition to the rent for seven months, I am ready
to pay a reasonable sum. My father- in- law Mr. Bland of Beachville, will settle with you to your
satisfaction. You will find the premises no worse for my occupancy. One pane of glass is out
upstairs, but I put in three panes while I was there, which were broken before I moved into the
house. I also made other repairs about the house.
I hope that in view of the above mentioned reasons, you will take no offence at my not calling in
person to settle with you. You are aware that my half years rent was at your disposal two months
before due, if you had only called for it. Hoping that you may see fit to take the house off my
hands, I remain yours & c.
Eben M Rice.
*Mr. Brown is possibly George Brown who owned a house in Bothwell and a lot of holdings in the area.

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56

Dec. 17/1867, Cont.
Also wrote to John Dougall, publisher of the Witness, to have him change my address, & to
Annie as of 20th, she has a birthday.
Dec. 18/1867
A nice day. Tried to snow all day but failed. In the morning they sent for me to come and see
Mrs. Boon, I found her very low. She could not talk or answer any questions. Prayed with her.
Called on Mr. Brake. In the afternoon went to get Nash to cut my wood. He is to have 75 cents a
cord. Bought a map of the oil region 20 cents. Paid Mr. Pratt 75 cents for the Newbury affair.
Paid boon $1. For what I owed him for the Sunday School papers. He brought me a study table
to use till he can make me one.
After tea went to see Mrs. Boon. She died while I was there. Had good prayer meeting,
but only 5 present. Posted my letters today.
Dec. 19
A nice day. Nash has been cutting my wood today. He cut all the dry and put off in the green.
Spent the morning to setting things right in the study. Mr. Pratt was in for a while. In the
afternoon went to the school examination for a while and then came home. Received letter from
Mr. Schofield. Wrote part of a sermon on Amos 1V: 12, ‘Prepare to meet thy God.’ Mary set
bread tonight.

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Dec. 20
A dull day. Snowed in the night & threatened rain all day. Nash finished cutting my wood & I
paid him $1.75 for it. Bought one and a half bushels of potatoes from the Expressman for 48
cents a bushel.
At 3 p.m. went to Mrs. Boon’s funeral. There were a good many present. I affiliated.
Read Ecclesiastes, X : 7, To end of book. Made a few remarks and prayed. Mr. Pratt and I had
Brakes horse. Went to the grave where I offered a short prayer. Received C.B. and letter form
Beachville. They received money alright. The C.B. comments of acquisition of my carpet.
Wrote part of a sermon. On Amos 1V: 12- finishing it. Began another on 2 Cor. 1: 12,
‘Behold now is the accepted time, & etc. Lennie has not been well today. Tonight he vomited
A great deal. He has eaten no dinner, no tea today. I expect it is his teeth that trouble him. Today
is Annie’s birthday. She is 25 today.
Dec.21
A stormy day. Spent the morning in choring around. Finished my sermon, cleared up my study,
& etc. In the afternoon Mrs. Brake called & gave us a roasting piece of pork, about 6 or 7
pounds. Mr. Pratt and Cook called.
Heard a coloured man a blacksmith dropped dead in his doorway, I think today.
Received letter from Leonard asking about the sheep. Mary baked some pies.

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Dec. 22/ 1867

58
SABBATH

A windy disagreeable day. In the morning had congregation of 26, preached form Amos 1V: 12.
Had Sunday School of about the usual number., 3 teachers, and 14 scholars. Young Yates gave
me 65 cents for the papers. In the evening had congregation of 28, preached from 2 Cor. V1: 2.
I heard tonight that the man that died was to be buried tomorrow at 10, and I was
expected to attend. He lives about 2 miles out in the country. I suppose I must go because he
was poor and coloured.
Dec. 23
A cold morning, but rather pleasant day. In the morning, did not get started as early as I expected,
but got to the house in plenty of time. Began the service about eleven.
Sang hymn, ‘Why should we not start and fear to die?’. Then read Eccl. X1: 17 to end of
X11. Sang there is a fountain filled with blood, and spoke for about 25 minutes from
Amos 1V: 12. Prayed and sang “Hark from the tomb’s a doleful sound.’ There were about 25
persons. They were going about ten miles to bury him, but I would not go, as they would not
get back till late. Got home about 12.
In the afternoon called on Mr. Pratt about the Sunday School. He handed over what
money he had for the Sunday School. $3.00 & $1. For half, this leaving in my hands $6.90. I am
to send for the papers & send the money when the bill comes in. Called on Rosebrugh and we
had a long talk. Wrote part of a sermon from Wed.

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Dec. 24/1867
Rose early & worked hard all day. Mrs. Berryman came to wash. Finished my sermon for
Wednesday. & wrote to Lloyd & ordered the papers, and Coneybeare and Hownson for Mrs
Pratt. Wrote to Dow.
Mr. Laughton send Mary a Christmas present of some sugar, 5” and tea. A busy day.
Dec. 25
Christmas Day & very disagreeable. Rained heavily in the morning but cleared up about noon.
Went to the church of England in the morning. Heard a passible sermon from Mr. Wright, from
Micah V 2.
Went to Mr. Pratt’s for dinner. After dinner went to post office and got C. B. & posted
some letters to M. Dow, came home and lay down as I had not felt well all day.
After a while *Mary and baby came home from Pratt’s.

* She is staying there till the house is fixed.

Read some in the evening. From *C.B. and W. Our evening meeting was a failure. Only four
were present, but we had a prayer meeting. Cato was there & came over and stayed with me. We
had a good talk on religious topics.

*Canadian Baptist and Witness Magazines

Have spent a miserable Christmas. Never felt so miserable aa I have this Christmas. I
hope I may never spend such another. Began to rain about dark and rained & stormed terribly all
day.
Dec. 26
Worked hard around home in the morning, after dinner, started for Carey’s. It was very bad
walking. Had a pleasant time. Sat up talking till after midnight. Mrs. Berryman washed for us
today.

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Dec. 27/1867
Rained during the night, and all morning. Did not leave Carey’s till after dinner, when they
brought me home & sent me a bag of potatoes.
Found that Eberlee had been here yesterday to see me about preaching at Zone. Also
found that the parcel had come from Annie. She sent Lennie a nice pelisse & cap. Aunt Lizzie
sent a lot of warm things of Jenie’s, & a $5. bill to me.
The girl we hired yesterday came this afternoon, and stayed till tea time, when she left
because she could not sit at table with us & because she has to sleep on a straw bed. Adkins took
me two ticks to the big barn & filled it with straw, and charged me 50 cents.
Learned the cause of Carey’s withdrawing his letter. He says that he thinks Mr. Pratt
deceived him about the Call. That the Call was made without any regard to preaching here twice,
& that Mr. Pratt put that part in without any right to do so. He is not willing that I should preach
3 times on a Sabbath, but thinks Bothwell should give up one service for the benefit of the
country places.
Dec. 28
A nice day. In the morning, finished my report to Dr. Davidson ad let Mr. Pratt read it. Also
wrote to Eberlee offering to go out Tuesday and spend the evening with them.
Read the Witness. During afternoon, read Witness & played with Lennie. Wrote part of a sermon
on 2 Cor.

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61

Dec. 29 Sabbath
A very pleasant day. In the morning preached from Isa.X11. 10, on. The progress of the Baptist
principals in the world. Had congregation of 30.
In the afternoon, there were 3 teachers and 19 scholars at Sunday School. Taught Cowan’s class.
In the evening preached from 2 Cor 1V.
Dec 30
A clear cold day., but not disagreeably so. In the morning stayed at home, writing and etc, Wrote
to Lloyd about the books etc. and I ordered 1 dozen Sunday School Bells for Mr. Pratt. Wrote
part of my letter to Davidson.
Elder Lince called today and I had talk with him about the country status. Agreed to help
him in a series of meetings in Carey’s School House next month. Called on Mrs. Pratt & Mrs.
Pellete and went to see about a girl, but could not get one.
In the evening was our prayer meeting, or rather church meeting. There were 8 members present.
Had a financial statement resolved to borrow the money to pay the debt on the church. Received
a letter from Mrs. Berryman, Pellete and Rice. Granted Carey a letter of dismissal.
Dec. 31
A cold day. Spent the morning in making shelves for Mary and etc. In the afternoon was engaged
in various things.
Lennie got his finger jammed in the door today. Bought him a tin horse for New Year’s present.
Eberlee and Dancy came to see me about Zone. They offered me $30. And would bring me back
and forth. I agreed and am to begin next Sabbath.

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62

Dec 31/1867, Cont.
Mr. Wardle the butcher brought me a present of about 3 pounds of fine steak. Mrs. Pellete
brought us about 3’ butter and about 8’ of a roast of beef for a New Year’s present.
Have been hard at work straightening up my accounts. I find that I had cash on hand Jan 1,
$28.37. I had on hand now $3.31. I have received during the year from all resources$ 282.44,
and have spent $376.55.
This appears to have left me about, $96. In debt. But adding to my receipts the cash on hand, Jan
1st and today, the money which I had Jan 1 and today, the money which I had borrowed but not
entered in my receipts and a small amount due me from the church postage, the actual deficit is
only 21/2 cents. My assets to begin the year is $342. 14 cents and debts $66.85 ½ as full account
of this will be found in my cash book. Below, I added a table of various things.
*Bev has not typed in the bookkeeping pas as it is sideways.