John Ferguson (1851 - 1931)
1874
Transcribed by Rural Diary Archive volunteers
THE CANADIAN Pocket DIARY FOR 1874
TORONTO: PUBLISHED BY BROWN BROS., 66 King Street East.
Two Printed Pages - Calendar for 1874; Rates of Postage
Pages 2 to 7 are printed pages with various tables and dates.
January THURSDAY 1 1874
A bright mild day, nearly a foot of snow on the level but no sleighing on the much travilled roads. Spent
the day at home, reading and writing, father & mother went to Mrs Trueman's, Brampton for dinner.
Viney and I went this evening with W. M. {Wesleyan Methodist} Choir to sing at teameeting in Unity
Church (near Norval) "had a good time".
FRIDAY 2
Was hauling cordwood from "other place" bush on sleigh all day, have about 5 1/2 cords hauled. Mr &
Mrs J. C. Snell and children were here for dinner & tea. Spent evening at Zion Church at the Missionary
meeting. Revs W Burns & J G Scott were the speakers, a successful meeting
January SATURDAY 3 1874
Hauling cordwood from lower bush and splitting rock elm fence stakes. Father drove to Brampton for
Aunt Jennie Harrington, she has just come from a short visit to Montreal. George Rice of Oshawa
came here this evening The January thaw has set in and the snow has nearly all disappeared.
SUNDAY 4
Viney and I drove in the buggy up to S. School this morning (The roads are very muddy and weather
very warm) Supt J R Craig Pres. Sec-Treas J C Snell pres. lesson - Exodus I 7 to 14, "The House of
Bondage" Rev J G Scott preached at Zion at 2:30 P.M. A rainy evening staid at home, music & chat..
January MONDAY 5 1874
Chopping cordwood in the lower bush, the high wind last night having uprooted some more trees. A
bright warm day and the snow all gone. A lively time in Brampton tonight over the municipal elections. J
Haggert Mayor - K Chisholm, Reeve & D S Leslie, D. Reeve. Spent evening at Lodge. Chronicle by G
Golding.
TUESDAY 6
A very stormy day. Not doing much but choring around the barn-yard The Misses Lula Maine and
Hattie Moreland are here spending some of their holidays with our little folks. Spent evening at home
reading Mrs Stowe's Pink and White Tyranny.
January WEDNESDAY 7 1874
Shipped on early morning train to Stratford two young Berkshire's to Mr Henry Hawkins. Our folks went
to J C Snell's for dinner Misses Kizzie and Emma and R. P. Snell spent evening here in social chat.
Sleet falling all day and raining tonight. There is sleighing again.
THURSDAY 8
With the help of J Learment we killed and dressed a 4 yr old fat cow it weighed 580 lbs beef, hide &
tallow spent afternoon at Brampton at the Reform Convention, unanimously chose Mr R. Smith MPP to
be the Reform candidate, he made an able speech, & one from G Beam
January FRIDAY 9 1874
Received last night a letter from Uncle Adam Ferguson Went to Brampton this forenoon and sold to Mrs
Vodden a quarter of beef 150 lbs @ 6¢ - also to another party a quarter 140 lbs @ 4¢ per lb - the hide to
T Milner, 64 lbs @ 5½¢ - Received from H Hawkins by mail $10.00 for the Berkshires.
SATURDAY 10
Very fair sleighing again but the weather is very mild Spent the day hauling barnyard manure on the
orchard field, drew 12 sleigh loads. Spent evening at home preparing for the Sabbath.
January SUNDAY 11 1874
Attended Ebenezer Union S. School this morning, Supt pres. Sec pres lesson Exodus II 1 to 10 - The
Birth of Moses" Drove sleigh load of our folks up to J C Snells and spent afternoon and took tea. Heard
Rev W Burns preach in Brampton tonight - text John III 14 &15 verses.
MONDAY 12
Was hauling firewood from "other place" woods, very little frost under the snow making it bad to get
around in the bush with the sleigh. Spent evening at the Lodge, a large attendance and a good lively
meeting. Mailed a copy of "Peel Banner" to Uncle Adam. Received circular from H. C. Thomson about
the new Herd Book
January TUESDAY 13 1874
Hauling maple & beechwood to Brampton for Mrs Trueman drew 2 loads to day. Had a visit from our
cousins, the Misses Hannah & Mary Pearen & John & Thomas Pearen for the first time in several years.
J C Snell and family were here for tea. Spent evening at Ebenezer at a teachers meeting.
January THURSDAY 15 1874
Finished hauling the compliment of five cords for Mrs Trueman and received $18.75 being the stipulated
price for the same. Had a call from Robert Crawford of Oshawa. An extremely cold day
FRIDAY 16
Was hauling firewood all day from "other place" bush. A F Campbell came this evening on a short visit.
Viney had visitors, the Misses R. and E. Carter & E Nichols. Spent evening at Choir Practice. Have
always on hand a large stock of newspapers from western States
January SATURDAY 17 1874
R Crawford left here for Oshawa. Took a cord of picked hardwood to Brampton and sold it to Pendleton
@ $3.50. A great stir in politics just now the Tories have nominated W Elliott to oppose R Smith.
Mailed a letter to R J Nichols. Was barbered at J. E. Wood's.
SUNDAY 18
Spent forenoon at S. School Supt and Sec pres. lesson Exodus III 1 to 10, The Deliverer raised up.
The Canadian Messenger was distributed among the scholars. Miss Jennie Peacock spent the day here
Heard Rev W Burns preach a Temperance sermon in Brampton tonight text Exodus XXIII, 2nd
January MONDAY 19 1874
{ink blob} A thaw and a rainy day. Drew two loads of wood to Brampton and sold to W Pendleton @
$3.50 per load or cord. Went to lodge this evening, Chronicle by W. Secretary, the committee
presented the petitions to the Council to stop licensing groceries
TUESDAY 20
Drew a load of cordwood to Pendleton. Attended a committee meeting at Dr Moore's Office to arrange
for the meeting of the Co Lodge. Spent afternoon and evening writing letters of invitation to attend the
Co Lodge to different parts of the Counties of Peel & Halton wrote 13 letters | One to Rev J Shaw Toronto
January WEDNESDAY 21 1874
Sold another load of cordwood @ 3.50 making 5 at that price and 5 @ {2}.75. J. Johnston G. L.
Lecturer was here for tea and staid all night. Heard him lecture on Temperance tonight in Zion, and
organized a lodge of Good Templars starting with 13 members. Got home at midnight
THURSDAY 22
Cleaned up 24 bush of peas took 5 bags of peas and oats to Main's Steam Mill. Spent afternoon at the
nomination for members of the House of Commons, a large crowd R Smith and W Elliott are the
opposing candidates some very stirring speeches on both sides of the house
January FRIDAY 23 1874
Drove to Brampton in the waggon this morning, the snow is nearly all off the roads. Mailed two
postcards one to Uncle Taylor and the other to Rev J Shaw. Spent evening at Choir Practice and
afterwards until 1 o'clock in the morning at a private party at Mr M Gummerson's
SATURDAY 24
Was hauling firewood from "other place" bush, have about 20 cords home beside what was sold in
Brampton. Aunt Jennie and I drove to Brampton this evening on business. The Political excitement is
intense. Very cold and freezing hard tonight.
January SUNDAY 25 1874
Went to S. School this morning Supt and Sec pres. lesson Exodus IV 1 to 9 - "Doubts removed". A
new librery of 60 volumes was distributed among the scholars. Aunt Jennie and I spent afternoon at
J.C.S. Heard Rev J G Scott preach in Brampton tonight - text - Luke II 7th verse. A F Campbell was at
church and came up here tonight
MONDAY 26
Was hauling firewood, have all the hardwood that is chopped hauled out. Uncle Taylor walked up from
Port Credit and is staying here. Went to the Lodge this evening afterwards to a political meeting in
Concert Hall, it was crowded full, J Gooderham G Blain, J Fleming & J W Beynon
January TUESDAY 27 1874
The G L Lecturer J Johnston Uncle Taylor and I drove to Brampton to attend the formation of Peel Co
Temple Had a small attendance but those that were present were active workers. A load of the Oakville
people were at the afternoon session. A large Temperance meeting tonight and speeches by Johnston.
Scott & Burns & W M Choir.
WEDNESDAY 28
The Oakville people drove home last night after the meeting was over. The next meeting of Co Lodge
will be in Streetsville on Friday 27th of next month Went to Brampton tonight to a meeting for the friends
of R Smith, the last grand rally before the conflict of tomorrow
January THURSDAY 29 1974
The polling of votes for the Dominion Parliament took place today simultaneously all over Ontario. Went
to Mayfield with a load of voters, then to Brampton tonight to see the fun of bonfires and procession R
Smith was elected with a majority of 15 votes over W Elliott the Tory candidate.
FRIDAY 30
An exceedingly cold day. Spent most of the day in the house writing reports of Co Lodge meeting to the
local papers and to the "Casket". Spent evening at Zion Church at "Edmonton" Temple No 543 not
many present, five were initiated. Snow falling from the N.E.
January SATURDAY 31 1874
Drove sleigh up to "Willow Lodge" Farm this morning on busines. Spent afternoon in Brampton, doing a
little shopping and talking politics. Mailed a letter to T. W. Casey, Napanee and to A F Campbell a post
card Busy writing all evening on Lodge business.
February SUNDAY 1 1874
Went to the Quarterly meeting at Brampton this morning Rev W Barns preached from John XVII, 1st
verse. The attendance of people was not so good as usual, it being a very cold day. Spent afternoon at
Choir Practice & took tea with Mrs Perry. Heard Rev J G Scott preach tonight text Psalm XLV 7th & 8th
February MONDAY 2 1874
A stormy day - snow falling fast from N.E. Drove cutter up to J C Snell's this forenoon. Drove sleigh to
Brampton at 5 oclock PM and met at the R R Depot, Mr and Mrs George Rice who were married on
Thursday last at Niagara Falls NY. - Spent evening at the Lodge Election of Officers, am in the same
office - W Secretary.
TUESDAY 3
A F Campbell came up with me last night. Hauled a cord hard wood to Mrs Trueman @ $3.50. - A
wedding dinner here at 6 P.M. guests - Mr and Mrs Main Mrs Trueman, Featherston & John Snell Rev
W Burns and wife Mr & Mrs J C Snell & Jennie Peacock. Had a pleasant conversaytione until 11 P.M.
when the party broke up.
February WEDNESDAY 4 1874
Had a visit today from Walter Baldock and his sister & Mary Campbell, Alek's daughter - The wedding
folks and Viney went to Toronto on evening train Went with W M Choir to a Honey Social on 24 1st line
West this evening. Speaking by Revs J G Scott and Sherlock, a crowded house and plenty of honey.
The Choir were highly praised.
THURSDAY 5
Was hauling the soft wood from "other place" bush, have 5 cords this completes the job of drawing wood
for the present. Spent the evening at writing up the minutes of the Peel Co Lodge. Edwin Dixon of
Amaranth staid here all last night and started for home this morning.
February FRIDAY 6 1874
The principal occupation just now is threshing with the flail used it all day on the peas & with
considerable effect - spent evening at Edmonton Temple in Ebenezer Church 8 initiated and quite a
lively meeting. G H Golding from Brampton was present. A very stormy evening.
SATURDAY 7
Swinging the flail on timothy and orchard grass for to get the seed pounded out, very slow work, about
2 bush a day. First calf of this season came yesterday from "White Rose" - Nearly a foot of snow came
last night, the weather is moderate. At home writing all evening.
February SUNDAY 8 1874
Spent forenoon at S. School Sept and Sec pres. lesson - Exodus VII, 14 to 22 "The first Plague". Was
reading this afternoon "Gates Ajar" by Mrs Philps, a very interesting and unique work. J C Snell and
family were here for tea. Heard Rev Mr Eastman preach in Brampton tonight - text Ezekiel Ist Chap. 15
to 19th verses .....
MONDAY 9
Still at the flailing. Finished the timothy have 38 lbs for 1/2 dys threshing. Started the orchard grass
seed. Went to Brampton tonight on foot. Received a letter from Viney of Oakville. Spent evening at
the Lodge, four initiated, and a good meeting. Had a short chat with Dawson Morland just from London
Ont.
February TUESDAY 10 1874
Received a letter yesterday from R J Nichols of Chicago. Finished threshing the orchard grass. have
about 6 bushels and 2 1/2 bush threshed last fall total on hand 8 1/2 bush, it is very difficult to get clean
it being so light, only 14 lbs to bush Spent evening writing up the Lodge work of Edmonton No 543 and
Safe Guard No 350 .....
WEDNESDAY 11
Drove up to John R Craig's to attend his auction Sale of Blooded Stock, a large attendance of people.
John R Page of N York was the auctioneer the Short Horns were all bought by American buyers at high
figures the sheep - Cotswolds sold well the Canadians getting a fair share of them
February THURSDAY 12 1874
Robert G Ferguson came here last night from St Joseph. Uncle Adam went on to Toronto. Drew two
cords of soft wood to Brampton and sold them to J Campbell of the "Ashery" @ $2.00 per cord. Simon
Beattie's Sale of Stock today Very high prices were paid, one cow brought $3420.00
FRIDAY 13
J C Snell called here this moing with his cutter and we went down to Streetsville to attend the County
Peel S School Convention It wast not a success this year being poorly attended by the people or by
speakers. We took tea with Mr Webb, an old friend that was my S S Teacker 15 years ago. It was past
midnight when we got home
February SATURDAY 14 1874
Raining slightly most all day yesterday and the sleighing has gone (almost) once more. This winter has
been a very peculiar one thus far. Spent the day fanning and measuring oats for seed and for next
summe's feeding. Went to Brampton tonight, was at Choir Practice.
SUNDAY 15
Went to Brampton W M Church this morning to attend the Anniversary services. Heard Rev Dr Wood
preach text Genesis, VII, 1st Heard Rev S. Rose preach at 2:30 P.M. text Revelations V, 6th verse
Took tea with D Moreland at Mrs Trueman's. Heard Rev E H Dewart preach tonight, text, Luke XV 7th
Three most excellent sermons especially morning & evening
February MONDAY 16 1874
Threshing crown peas with the flail. R G Ferguson left here this morning for Toronto and then on to
Orangeville and Shelborne. Went to on Brampton tonight on foot and spent evening at the Lodge, small
attendance of members but had some good readings and songs.
TUESDAY 17
At the same work as yesterday fine mild weather but very little snow on the ground. Spent evening at
Brampton hearing Rev Lachlin Taylor lecture in W M Church on "Manitoba", he is a good speaker and
handles the subject well making it both witty and instructive.
February WEDNESDAY 18 1874
Still at the threshing. Our folks went visiting up to J. C. Snell's. Drove to Brampton tonight to meet Aunt
Jennie Rice from Oshawa. She, Emma and I went to Odd-fellows concert given for the benefit of the
poor of the town, the singing was fairly done & the readings excellent, the most of the actors were from
Toronto.
THURSDAY 19
Fanned the remainder of the Diehl wheat 21½ bush and sold it to K C & Co @ $1.20 also cleaned up
the barley for spring seeding, have only 10 bush. Rented a box 247 in Brampton Post Office for ten
months @ 35¢. Bought of Jesse Perry one bush of fresh lime @ 25¢ ......
February FRIDAY 20 1874
Cleaning peas with fanning mill - have about 115 bush threshed and cleaned - have 190 bush of oats,
having cleaned measured them also. A very mild day very little snow on the fields, the roads are
somewhat icy. Spend evening at Edmonton Lodge No 543, had a pleasant meeting, some readings
and recitations.
SATURDAY 21
Went to Brampton this forenoon on horseback. Mailed some letters for Aunt Jennie received a letter
from Viney. Her health is improving and she is enjoying herself in Oakville. Spent afternoon making
preparations for sawing on Monday.
February SUNDAY 22 1874
Spent forenoon at S. School Supt and Sec pres. lesson Exodus XIII 17 to 21 - "Exodus of the Israelites
from Egypt"-- J C Snell and family came here this afternoon and we all drove in spring waggon to
Brampton tonight and Heard Rev J G Scott preach text - Luke XIX 41st A Temperance sermon, going
fully into the subject in able manner.
MONDAY 23
With Guy Bell's circular saw and with the help of some of our neighbours we sawed about 23 cords of
wood, 18 of which were hard and the rest soft wood. Finished at 3 o'clock rather more than 5 hours at
the job. Spent evening at the Lodge rather a dull session.
February TUESDAY 24 1874
Shortly after sunrise I started with team and sleigh for Caledon to get a load of cedar. Bought of A
McColl 35 posts @ 8¢ each and got home at noon, having made the round trip of 20 miles in less than 5
hours. Very little snow in Caledon this winter
WEDNESDAY 25
Father, mother and aunt Jennie went to 3rd line East on an all day visit to the Modeland's. Spent the day
threshing peas with the flail. Spent evening at Brampton in the stores and chatting with some chums.
Uncle Adam came here this evening to spend the night, they are going to live in Bay City Michigan
February THURSDAY 26 1874
Started for Oakville at 10.30 o'clock A.M. with horse and buggy and arrived at the end of my journey at 3
P.M. Found the folks all well down there. Spent the evening at a public Temperance meeting, a Mrs
Hardy of New York gave a very good lecture she is a fluent speaker. D B. Chisholm MP Halton Co also
spoke well. Some very choice music was given
FRIDAY 27
Had a pleasant time in Oakville they are fully alive on Temperance. Viney and I left there at 1 oclock for
Streetsville to attend Peel Co Lodge IOGT. We had a very pleasant meeting in the lodge room of
"Union" Temple, the Co Temple promises to be a success. In the evening we went to a Social. The
readings and music were really excellent
February SATURDAY 28 1874
Got home this morning at 1 o'clock, tired and sleepy. Aunt Jennie Rice packed up all her things and
went by train to Oshawa to take up her permanent residence there. Spent the day at R Smith's wood-
sawing bee. Something uncommon happened here yesterday in the shape of twin calves from
"Blossom"
March SUNDAY 1 1874
At S. School this forenoon Supt and Sec Pres. Lesson - Exodus XIV, 19 to 31. "Israelites crossing the
Red Sea". Heard Rev John Gardiner Scott preach in Brampton tonight - text - Job XIV, 14th verse. A
funeral sermon on the death of a young lady - A beautiful warm day - the roads quite muddy.
March MONDAY 2 1874
Was splitting firewood and piling it in the wood house for next summer's use The Township Assessor Mr
Watson was here today, we are assessed at $5350.00 for whole property. Spent evening at Temple,
one initiated some good readings.
TUESDAY 3
Was helping J Learment to cut in the bush with the cross cut saw, some maple trees. Regular spring
weather snow nearly all gone, raining in showers, and the mud on the Centre Road six inches deep.
March WEDNESDAY 4 1874
Spent the day splitting and piling firewood in the woodhouse. Mr R Lowes had an Auction Sale of Farm
Stock the prices paid were not very high. Mailed a letter to R. J Nichols of Chicago. This evening was
reading that very interesting little book "Gates Ajar" by Mrs Phelps....
THURSDAY 5
Was threshing peas all day with flail, a very dusty job but am amply repaid for the dirt and labor by the
way the peas shell out. Was reading a long article in the "Globe" about the Ontario College Farm how it
is to be conducted and managed. It will be a grand institution for young farmers.
March FRIDAY 6 1874
Cleaned from dust and chaff with the fanning mill 30 bush of peas mostly "Golden Vine". Went to
Brampton this afternoon on horse-back. Bought at Wilkinson's a grey cotton shirt and neck tie $2.15.
Spent evening at Edmonton "Lodge" J C Snell was initiated, had a pleasant meeting.
SATURDAY 7
Raining more or less all last night and this forenoon freezing and loading the trees with ice. Was splitting
firewood most of the day. Have had some trouble all winter with "scratches" on the horses' heels, are
slowly healing up now, by being dressed with lye and fresh lime. First lambs of the season came
yesterday, twins but both dead.
March SUNDAY 8 1874
Viney, Emma, Ella and I walked up to S. School this morning Supt pres. Sec also pres - lesson,
Exodus XV 22 to 27 "The bitter waters sweetened". Took dinner at J C Snell's and staid the afternoon.
Heard Rev William Burns in Brampton tonight preach text Galatians XI, 7th & 8th verses.
MONDAY 9
Threshing peas all day and are nearly done the job. Mrs J C Snell was here on a visit it is now good
walking across the fields to their place. Revs W Burns & J G Scott were presented with $100.00 each by
the members of W M Church on last Saturday. Spent evening at the Lodge. Chronicle by Bro Bunting
March TUESDAY 10 1874
Completed the task of threshing the peas, have 165 bush cleaned and in the bins beside taking to mill
25 bush half peas and oats for chopping. Got home our new iron harrows they have 72 teeth of the
best material (painted blue). Received last night a letter from Aunt Jennie Rice and one from Sarah
Peacock Tom Mason was married on Feb 24th
WEDNESDAY 11
Went to Brampton this afternoon and brought home the chopped grain. Was measured for a pr of fine
boots two weeks ago and received them today from J Coyne @ 5.50$. - Sold to J C Snell 50 Bush peas
@ 65 ¢ per bush. Very cold windy weather and rough roads.
March THURSDAY 12 1874
Delivered the 50 bush of peas we sold to J C S. at Main's Mill for chopping they are feeding a great
quantity of grain to their stock, fitting them up for the Sale. On my way home from Brampton the horses
ran away, threw me out and the wheels went over my foot and leg, bruising them severely.
FRIDAY 13
Father went down and brought home the waggon, the tongue axletree and bolster are broken some
person having in the meantime stolen the double trees and rod. J Learment and father went to
Edmonton Temple, there were 5 initiated & a good meeting. A heifer calf from Coral - A monster lamb
of 15 lbs weight
March SATURDAY 14 1874
Still laid up with bruises spent the day in the house reading and writing, it is very wearisome to be
confined to the house when one is used to knocking around outside all the time. Had a call from Mr
Archd Bunting Mailed a letter to Aunt Jennie Rice by Ella going to Brampton.
SUNDAY 15
It must be more than a year since I spent a Sabbath entirely at home. My sisters walked up to S. School,
the lesson - Exodus XVI 1 to 6th "Manna from heaven". Rev J.G. Scott preached at Zion at 2½ PM to a
small congregation. Have been engaged all day reading and music. A fine bright day.
March MONDAY 16 1874
Fanned up a load of spring wheat (Mamoth) and sold it to K C & Co, 45 bush @ $1.12 per bush. J
Learment lending us his waggon for the purpose The weather is very fine. Not able to go to the Temple
to night in body but am there in spirit. A F Campbell called here today but only staid half an hour
TUESDAY 17
Spent the day working at the wagon, got the tongue completed and ironed, it looks as good as ever it
did. Had a call this evening from G. H. Golding on a brotherly visit. We spent the evening in social chat.
March WEDNESDAY 18 1874
Bro Golding staid all last night and breakfasted with us this morning. At the same job as yesterday,
working on the axletree of rock elm. Father went to Brampton on horseback. Received a letter from the
Oakville friends. A very warm misty day. The Etobicoke is raging and mud abounds
THURSDAY 19
Completed the job of yesterday and the waggon is now better and stronger than it was before the
accident. Spent evening reading the works of H W Longfellow, his poems always seem fresh and
attractive
March FRIDAY 20 1874
Started operations on another wagon axletree for the old waggon. Had a visit this afternoon from R
Smith, M.P. (also Mr & Mrs JC Snell) he intends going to Ottawa on Tuesday next the Parliament will
open on 26 inst Spent evening at Edmonton Lodge, two initiated, a lively meeting and lengthy, after
10 oclock when we adjourned.
SATURDAY 21
Finished the job on the old wagon have them both in good running order now. The weather is fine and
bright with smart frosts at night, the roads are exceedingly bad. Mailed yesterday a letter to Uncle T J
Harrington of Carthage Missouri.
March SUNDAY 22 1874
Rode on horseback up to S. School Supt and Sec pres. lesson - Exodus XVII 8 to 13 "The defeat of
Amalek". The "Canadian Messenger" of Montreal distributed among the scholars. Heard Rev J G Scott
preach in Brampton W M Church tonight, text II Peter I chap 1st verse. A good sermon expounding the
doctrine of "Faith".
MONDAY 23
An exceedingly windy cold day. Spent it making whiffle trees and attending the stock. Went to the
Temple tonight, met for first time in new hall over Greene's new block. The room is large and well
lighted, a good turn out of members and a good programe. J J Bunting bid us all goodbye, he is going
to live in Stratford
March TUESDAY 24 1874
Spent the day splitting firewood The high wind has blown down a great deal of timbers in the woods.
Spent whole evening writing up Temple work. Wrote a copy of resolution for the "Peel Banner" which
was passed at Lodge last night respecting Bro J J Bunting's departure to Stratford.
WEDNESDAY 25
Splitting firewood and repairing wagon box and feeding stock was my work for to day. Father went to
Brampton for a stock of groceries and sundries taking with him 5 lbs of butter now 30¢ per lb. Received
a letter from R J Nichols and Viney one from Oakville
March THURSDAY 26 1874
Attended Mr William Elliott's sale of farm stock and implements on No 10 Centre Road, A large crowd of
people and most of the articles brought high prices. Mr and Mrs John Woodhall were here for tea
FRIDAY 27
At the usual routine for work. Cleaned up 20 lbs of timothy seed off the barn floor, it having come out of
the wheat chaff. Mrs J C Snell was here all day. Viney and I went to Choir Practice tonight and had a
good sing. Mr W. Carter Senr died today from paralysis aged 59 years.
March SATURDAY 28 1874
Spent forenoon splitting firewood Went to Brampton after dinner and bought of K. C. & Co. 60 lbs of red
clover seed @ 10¢ @ lb. 6 bush seed barley @ $1.45 per bush. Got the team harness from Robertson's
and the collars all fully repaired, price $5.00 Mr C. Fau{?} is here on a visit Misses M L Snell & C M
Craig are here this evening.
SUNDAY 29
Drove spring wagon up to S. School, Supt and Sec pres - lesson, A Review of the past Quarter's
lessons. Heard Rev W Burns preach in Brampton tonight - text II Timothy III 4th and 5th verses. A very
faithful sermon on the popular amusement of dancing and its evil results. The church was very crowded.
March MONDAY 30 1874
Our folks attended Mr W Carter's funeral at 10 am in Brampton. Rev Mr Jollife P.M. minister preached
the sermon ... Hired a boy of 18 years Jos McWilliams for 7 months @ $14 he started work this
afternoon. Spent evening at the Lodge a lively meeting one initiated. Chronicle by Bro Jas Wideman
TUESDAY 31
Father and mother were visiting our neighbours Mr & Mrs R Armstrong yesterday evening. Today drove
up to Quin's shop with our iron plow for repairs. Was docking the sheep and dressing their wool from
straws and dirt. The weather is bright and cold and roads dusty.
April WEDNESDAY 1 1874
Working at the stovewood splitting and piling. Received a letter from Uncle T J Harrington of Carthage,
Mo. Our folks were visiting at Mr J M Joness', they had a pleasant time. This month starts with a bright
pleasant day, but a wintry feeling in the air. the roads smooth & dusty as July.
THURSDAY 2
At pretty much the same work as yesterday. Was also rebuilding some fence that was prostrated by the
wind. Viney got a letter from Aunt Jennie Rice. A newspaper from TJ Harrington The "New York"
Temperance Advocate just come to hand
April FRIDAY 3 1874
Drove team and waggon over to Norval saw mill and brought home 550 ft of culled pine lumber @ $4.00
per thousand and 100 ft pine scantling @ $10.00 per M. Spent evening at Edmonton Lodge, four were
initiated including Mr Joshua Modeland, a township councilor, had a good meeting.
SATURDAY 4
Was repairing and fixing up the little front gate. Our boy finished splitting the stove wood. Spent
afternoon at J M Joness' Auction sale of furniture and implements - also house and park lots. The most
of the articles brought high prices. Minnie and Nellie Joness are here visiting our little folks.
April SUNDAY 5 1874
Drove spring waggon up to S. School. Supt and Sec pres. lesson - Exodus XX 1 to 17 "The Ten
Commandments" The "Canadian Messenger" was distributed as usual on 1st & 3rd Sunday's in the
month, this one has a picture of Hon A McKenzie. J.C.S. and family were here today snow storm
tonight from the East.
MONDAY 6
A wintry morning, nearly six inches of snow on the level. Drove waggon up to R Quin's Shop and
brought home our iron plow, $4.00 worth of repairs put on it. Spent evening at Lodge, 4 brothers from
Toronto and 7 from Edmonton had a good meeting. Had a select oyster supper before the Lodge
opened.
April TUESDAY 7 1874
Hauling rails and stakes to various places repairing and making gates &c - &c - Guy Bell exchanged
with us 12 bags of white oats for an equal quantity of our black oats. Had a visit today from Misses Elsie,
Emma and Hattie Modeland, three sisters of Dawson Moreland.
WEDNESDAY 8
Drove spring wagon to Brampton early this morning for a load of men who were going to the Sale of John
Snell's Stock. Sale started at 12 oclock by J R Page auctioneer from New York, a large crowd of
people present, the principal purchasers were from the United States. on average the prices were good
- total $22,000 about
April THURSDAY 9 1874
Commenced laying a new fence of old rails dividing the orchard field in two parts of about 9 1/2 acres & 5
1/2 acres. Sold a 4 yr old cow to Joe Smith for $36.50 for beef. Spent evening and staid all night at J C
Snell's, all the talk was about the sale the prices on the Short-Horns were not so high as they expected
FRIDAY 10
Spent the day chopping in the lower bush some large maple's and beeches that were thrown down by the
wind into lengths for sawing, from 12 to 20 ft according to size. Had a visit to day from Mr and Mrs
Joness, they intend leaving Brampton shortly for Bowmanville.
April SATURDAY 11 1874
Spent last evening at the Edmonton Lodge, two visitors from Brampton, J M Joness & G H Golding a
very pleasant evening was spent. At the same work as yesterday Viney mailed a letter to Aunt Jennie
Rice. The weather is very cold and blustering.
SUNDAY 12
Spent forenoon at S School Supt abs Sec pres - lesson Exodus XXXII 1 to 6 & 19th & 20th verses -
"The golden calf" ---- Rev J G Scott preached at Zion at 2 P.M. and renewed the Quarterly tickets.
Heard him preach in Brampton tonight text - Job - XXXV 10th verse A good sermon - some thoughts
on music
April MONDAY 13 1874
Spent the day in the bush cutting with J Learments cross cut saw into cordwood two large maples.
Father was pruning the young apple trees. Spent evening at the Temple, two initiated and several
proposed, considerable business and not much under head of "Good of the Order".
TUESDAY 14
At the same work as yesterday Father went to Norval with a grist and brought home 100 ft of pickets and
planks. Shot a rabbit last evening that was prowling around the barn, had it dressed for dinner today
and it would take a good judge to tell it from chicken in flavor and appearance.
April WEDNESDAY 15 1874
Was building fence in the old orchard field. Had a visit from Revs W Burns and J G Scott, a pastoral call.
Went over to Mr McDowell's (4th line West) & bought 8 bush of a new variety of spring wheat for seed
called the "red chaff" @ $1.22 per bush. Spent evening writing a letter to R J Nichols, Chicago.
THURSDAY 16
Spent the day in the woods, chopping & splitting cordwood. Yesterday we took out the butt log of a
sound maple tree, timber for two wagon axles and also two bolsters. J C Snell was here for tea tonight,
had a settlement with him and was made square by him paying us $35.00
April FRIDAY 17 1874
At the same work as yesterday, have about ten cords of mostly beech and maple, first class wood cut
and piled up, used the hand cross cut saw with all the larger logs. Had a call yesterday from Aunt
Lizzie F. of Toronto, she sold her house in Brampton to Fleming @ $1600. Spent evening at Choir
Practice.
SATURDAY 18
Spent the greater part of the day in Brampton in the Law Office of Messrs Beynon and Fletcher arranging
matters and deeds with agents of C.V.R. Company, did not get through with it until Monday next. The
weather continues cool and dry.
April SUNDAY 19 1874
Went to S. School this forenoon Supt and Sec pres lesson Exodus XXXIII, 12th to 20th verse "The
people forgiven". Spent afternoon and took tea at Willow Lodge, the residence of J C Snell. Heard Rev
J G Scott preach in Brampton tonight - text - II Peter, III chap 8th verse.
MONDAY 20
A rainy day from the N. East Was picking over the potatoes and knocking off the sprouts have about 20
bush of "Early Rose". Drove to Brampton. Ma and I signed the deed to C.V.R. giving them 87/100 of an
acre for $41.76. Spent evening at the Lodge, three initiated, a good meeting although it was raining.
April TUESDAY 21 1874
Father drove mother and Viney down to GTR Depot this morning en route for Toronto to consult a Doctor
about Viney's health. Some of the neighbours are plowing but our land is too wet yet. Started digging
post holes for the garden fence. Received from K Chisholm MPP, two bound copies of statutes of Local
House.
WEDNESDAY 22
Working hard all day on the fall plowed lands, with the shovel, clearing out the cross drains and letting off
a great quantity of water. The ground is very soft yet, the frost being solid in most places six inches
below the surface
April THURSDAY 23 1874
Started plowing sod in the old orchard field, the water has a good chance to run off this field by its slope
to the Etobicoke, and the sod is pretty firm and plows very well. Mother arrived home from Toronto this
evening. Viney went down to Oshawa to visit Aunt Jennie. Mr & Mrs J C Snell were here for tea.
FRIDAY 24
Very hard frost, could not plow until noon. Spent forenoon in the woods cutting a large maple with the
cross cut saw. Plowing sod all afternoon the plow works capitally this spring. Spent evening at
Edmonton Lodge. they elected their Officers for next quarter the members turn out well.
April SATURDAY 25 1874
Drove to Brampton town in the buggy this morning and received a letter from Viney, she is well pleased
with the appearance of Oshawa. Plowing in the orchard this afternoon and finished all but the
headlands. A snow storm from the east set in this evening.
SUNDAY 26
Fully 4 inches of snow this morning. Went to S. School on horseback. Supt abs. Sec pres. lesson
Exodus last chap 17 to 30 "The tabernacle set up" The school was addressed by Mr N V Watson. Went
to Brampton W M Church this evening, heard Rev T Sims preach text Hebrews XII 16th & 17th He is
a P M. Minister
April MONDAY 27 1874
Was engaged in completing the picket fence on S.W. side of garden, used some of the best of the old
pailings excepting which the entire fence is new. Spent evening at the Lodge, a large attendance, two
initiated the Officers for next quarter were elected not many important changes made
TUESDAY 28
Was trimming with the saw and jacknife, the young orchard and the garden trees Also chopping in "other
place" bush, trees near the railroad have 3 1/2 cords piled up. The weather is very cold, the frost
severe at night, a cold North wind. Mailed last night letters to Viney and J Taylor.
April WEDNESDAY 29 1874
Spent most of the day in Brampton at the Spring Show of Co of Peel Agric Society a very good display
of horses and bulls, we took the 3rd prize $4.00 on our bull - "Oliver Twist". A very large crowd of
people present Nearly as cold as a winter day, blowing a strong North Wester
THURSDAY 30
Plowing sod, finished the orchard field and started plowing the sod field behind the barns ---- Our folks
went to Brampton and bought at J G {S}tead's bankrupt sale two pairs of woolen blankets at $4.00 per
pair and other things equally low
May FRIDAY 1 1874
It is May but all earth is not gay, there is scarcely any signs of life in vegetation yet, today has been the
warmest day this year Was plowing sod, turned about 1 1/4 acres. Rebuilt the part of line fence next
Mr D. Wiggins Spent evening at Choir practice in W M Church Brampton. The Officers of Edmonton
Lodge were installed tonight by Dr C Y Moore
SATURDAY 2
Received a letter from Viney she is in good spirits but very poor health, she thinks Oshawa is a fine
place. Commenced the spring seeding by sowing 9 1/2 acres of black oats, 30 bush our new iron
harrow works capitally indeed. Had a call from Mr Arthur Norris, he is a jolly Irishman
May SUNDAY 3 1874
Went to Quarterly Meeting in Brampton at 10 a.m. the Rev J G Scott preached, text, Hebrews XIII, 5th
verse a very able sermon, after which the lovefeast and sacrament until 2 P.M. Mrs John Snell and Tilly
Snell were here for dinner. Heard Rev W Burns preach tonight - text - Galatians VI, 14th verse.
MONDAY 4
A dull cloudy day - pushing the work lively from the prospects for rain but none tonight. Cultivated the
ground befor sowing the "Red Chaff" spring wheat 8 bush of it & 3 bush of "Mamoth" on 5 1/2 acres.
Sowed 9 bush of "Mammoth" on the fall wheat field and harrowed it in. Spent evening at the Lodge, a
quiet meeting
May TUESDAY 5 1874
Finishing up the spring wheat ground, rolling the fall wheat and plowing last season's turnip ground on
"other place" Sold J to J Crawforth two 2 yr old steers for $68.00. The ground is in fine trim this spring
and works up splendidly. Mailed a letter to Viney yesterday contaning $5.00
WEDNESDAY 6
Sowed 8 acres of barley and harrowed it in on "other place", Considerable frost in the ground yet below
the plowing depth. Bought of Walter Cation 4 bush of Early peas a new variety @75¢ per bush (This
was Thursday's business)
May THURSDAY 7 1874
Plowing all day at the turnip ground turned over about 1 3/4 acres. Had the other team rolling the fall
wheat Spent evening in Brampton in Dr Moore's office at a committee meeting about the concert of 25
inst (This is yesterday's programme of transactions)
(Sowed 16 bush barley on 8 acres)
FRIDAY 8
An exceedingly warm day Was plowing sod in the field immediately behind the barns. Sowed grass
seed in the following quantities on the barley field. Clover 1 bush timothy bush & orchard grass {blank
space} bush. Put the roller over the field after sowing it. Spent evening at Edmonton Lodge. 5 were
initiated
May SATURDAY 9 1874
At the same work as yesterday, very heavy plowing, the ground is getting so dry and hard. Killed and
dressed a calf for veal, sold a fore quarter to R. Armstrong 18 lbs @ 5¢ and hind quarter to W Campbell
@ 8¢ 20 lbs. Had a team rolling the timothy meadow and picking off the stones at the same time
SUNDAY 10
Spent forenoon at S School Supt abs Sec abs A Woodhall addressed the school on the lesson
Exodus XXIII chap "The three great feasts" Heard Rev John Gardiner Scott preach in Brampton tonight
- text - John XIX 17th A very warm day mercury up to 85° in the shade
May MONDAY 11 1874
Still at the plowing of sod the ground is getting harder every day Planted a few "Early Rose" potatoes in
the garden. - Spent evening in Brampton. Left an order at Wilkinson's for a pair of pants. bought a fine
shirt at $1.75. The Lodge was but poorly attended tonight
TUESDAY 12
Received a letter last night from Viney she is improving in health slowly and will be home by the 24th.
At the same work as yesterday Also started sowing the peas. The weather continues warm and dry.
Turned the cattle out to grass as the hay & straw is about fed up.
May WEDNESDAY 13 1874
Finished plowing the sod and sowing the same with peas. 4 bush "Early" & 20 bush "Crown" on 7 1/2
acres... Run out the principal cross furrows with the plow, the sods turning up fresh and green. Had a
nice little shower last night but the ground is very dry.. End of seeding proper.
THURSDAY 14
TransPlanted 4 horse chesnuts & one sugar maple from the garden to the front lane. Sold in Brampton 6
bush "Early Rose" @ 75¢ and bought 1 1/2 bush "Hungarian" grass seed @ $1.25. Mr & Mrs J C Snell
were here for dinner & tea, it being their wedding anniversary (AD 1868) Received a letter from R J
Nichols of Chicago.
May FRIDAY 15 1874
Was hauling barnyard manure on the intended fallow field but will sow something to make green feed for
the stock. Washed the sheep (29 in all) in Etobicoke. the water was quite warm - Spent evening at
Choir Practice. Bought two straw hats @ $1.25 and 20¢ -
SATURDAY 16
A rainy forenoon. spent it painting the lumber wagon whitewashing the cellar walls and making new sett
of whiffletrees. Plowing this afternoon with both teams. Another letter from Viney - Planted 13 early
tomatoes plants in the garden
May SUNDAY 17 1874
Walked up to S. School at 9 A.M. Supt and Sec Treas pres. lesson Numbers III 5 to 13. "The Lord's
ministers" A small attendance on account of the weather being showery" - Took dinner and spent
afternoon at "Willow Lodge" - Heard Rev J G Scott preach in Brampton tonight. text Luke XVI. 26th
verse. a short prayer meeting after the service.
MONDAY 18
Quite a heavy rain this morning. Mailed a letter to Viney inclossing $5.00 - At noon with the assisstance
of Robert Armstrong, we built up the line fence across the Etobicoke. Sowed 6 bush of crown peas on 2
acres - Spent evening at the Lodge in Brampton. one initiated.
May TUESDAY 19 1874
Plowing and preparing ground for corn and rape. Hauling manure on the turnip ground and for potatoes -
Put the third & last coal of paint on the lumber wagon - Turned the horses out to grass for the first time
for all night -
WEDNESDAY 20
Spent the day at sheep shearing. clipped 17 and father 8. the wool is very clean and shears easily
heaviest fleece weighs 12 1/2 lbs. from a yearling ewe - Bought a bell from an agent @ $10.00 weight
50 lbs made in Markham. Ont payable next January or before if we choose
May THURSDAY 21 1874
Completed the wool clipping will have about 240 lbs off 29 sheep. the fleeces of two old ewes were
light excepting which the average will be 9 lbs. Was drilling up the ground for the corn and rape and
sowing the same - Weather dry and cool. --------
FRIDAY 22
Plowing the ground for roots. it is pretty hard but will work up finely when freely harrowed. Have 1
nearly one acre of rape sowed 5 lbs of seed. 3/4 of an acre of American corn with 1 bushel {1/4} of an
acre of Canadian corn with a dozen ears - Spent evening at Edmonton Lodge No 543.
May SATURDAY 23 1874
Completed the task of plowing the root field 2 1/3 acres and harrowed it - Viney arrived at home tonight
from Toronto her health improved a good deal. Spent evening in Brampton. bought a pair of grey
check tweed pants at Wilkinson's $6.50. a white vest at K.C. & Co. @ $2.62½.
SUNDAY 24
Went to S. School this forenoon. Supt abs. Sec Treas present Mr N V Watson addressed the scholars
on the lesson. Numbers XIV 1 to 10. "Israel's unbelief" - Heard Rev W Burns preach in Brampton W M
Church to night - text John III. 3rd verse. There is a large congregation. the church being almost filled
every Sunday night.
May MONDAY 25 1874
Was observed as a public holiday by majority of folks - All the family but myself spent the day at J C
Snells - Was plowing all afternoon - Viney, Emma & I drove down to Brampton tonight to the Good
Templar's Concert in town Music Hall. It was a success the singing and readings were excellent all
the performers were from Toronto and vicinity and Hamilton.
TUESDAY 26
Yesterday a drizzling f rain from the west fell during most of the time - Spent today plowing and
thoroughly working up the root ground. Fitted up the new bell in a neat frame and cover and put it on the
peak of kitchen roof, a wire leading for ringing down into kitchen.
May WEDNESDAY 27 1874
Was engaged in planting potatoes nearly all day - planted 9 bush of "Early Rose" and 4 bush of "Garnet
Chili" on about 3/4 of an acre - Put them in by plowing dropping the potatoes in every third furrow, 12
inches apart 30 inches between the rows.
THURSDAY 28
Commenced pruning the old orchard. there is a good deal to cut out, mostly dead branches, the apple
blossoms are just coming out. the cherry and plum are fading - Finished the line fence next to D.
Wiggins. Received a copy of "St. Louis Globe" from Uncle T J Harrington.
May FRIDAY 29 1874
Finished the job of yesterday and hauled the branches into a pile in the summer fallow, it will make a
respectable bonfire some day soon - Spent evening at Choir Practice, a good turnout and we had a
good sing. Bought some fish hooks and lines for to angle in Etobicoke.
SATURDAY, 30
Commenced manuring the summer fallow. the manure is extra quality but will only have enough to cover
the higher ground. The weather is very warm rain is needed badly for the spring crops. the wire worm
is busy at the spring wheat and oats.
May SUNDAY 31 1874
At S. School this forenoon Supt and Sec pres. lesson Numbers XX 7 to 13 "The smitten Rock". A fine
shower of rain at 11 AM. Mr and Mrs J C Snell and little folks were here for tea. Heard Rev W Burns
preach tonight text Proverbs I 20th to end of chapter.
June MONDAY 1 1874
Quite a cool day, could work at the heavy job of hauling manure with a coat on. drew out on the fallow
today 18 loads - spent evening in Brampton at Old "Safeguard" No 350 had a rather slim meeting.
June TUESDAY 2 1874
Sowed 1 1/2 bush Hungarian grass seed on 2 1/4 acres harrowed and rolled the ground well, it just
wants the rain now to make things all right. The Early Roses are just coming up in the garden, rhubarb
is abundant this season - Spent evening at practice in Ebenezer for an open Lodge.
WEDNESDAY 3
Finished the manure hauling on the fallow put about 55 loads on it, the yards are all cleaned out except
the sheep pens. Received a letter from R P Campbell of "Campbell's Cross". A newspaper from
Carthage and another from New York.
June THURSDAY 4 1874
Replowed the turnip lot it is now in fine trim - Started plowing the summer fallow with the other team.
A prodigy arrived today in the shape of a black lamb, it is nearly twenty years since we had a black
sheep. The currant worms, potato bugs, &c are here now in full force -
FRIDAY 5
Dissolved 3 lbs of McDougall's tick destroyer in 25 gals of water and dipped all the lambs into the liquid -
Spent afternoon at Mr Ben Watson's bee to raise a straw house. This evening at the Edmonton Temple
the meeting was open to the public and the little church was filled -
June SATURDAY 6 1874
The entertainment last night was readings, dialogues, & music mostly from the members. Spent today at
plowing in the fallow - Set out 100 cabbage plants in the garden. the blossoms on the fruit trees are
very plentiful -
SUNDAY 7
The weather to day was very warm and attended with several thunder showers. in the early morn there
was a heavy mist and thunder, which does not often occur - Spent the day at home at reading. Heard
Mr L. Holtby preach tonight in Brampton - text I Kings XIX. 4th verse -
June MONDAY 8 1874
Both teams plowing all day in the fallow, the ground is dry and pretty hard on the knolls. it is rather
heavy work on man and beast. the "rose" potatoes in the garden are up nicely. The rye is fully headed
out first appeared over a week ago.
TUESDAY 9
Completed the breaking of the fallow 9 acres - Mailed a letter to Uncle Adam and to R J Nichols -
Gristed at Main's 11 bush Treadwell wheat & 3 bags of peas. Started to drill the land for turnips -
Bought of K. C & Co 5 bush of buckwheat @ $1.00, 5 lbs of turnip seed @ 20¢ per lb.
June WEDNESDAY 10 1874
Finished drilling the land for turnips, it is not quite so fine as it ought to be, but it is well manured both fall
and spring. Sowed the 5 1/5 bush buckwheat on fallow and harrowed it well - Mr & Mrs J C Snell called
here tonight. Some prospects of rain.
THURSDAY 11
Was sowing turnip seed at 4 oclock this morning, put 5 1/2 lbs on 2 1/3 acres, with the old single wheel
hand drill. The statute labor for the roads started in our section to day, two of us were on with our
shovels. A drizzling, foggy east wind
June FRIDAY 12 1874
At the same work as yesterday. Had the team and wagon, there were four other teams, all hauling
gravel from Armstrong's pit unto the Centre Road for repairing - Spent evening at Choir practice
Received a copy of "Carthage Advance" from Uncle Tom.
SATURDAY 13
At the road work all day and finished up, having put in 9 days work. The roads look well now the ground
was dry and loose and easily handled. Mr M Gummerson was path-master Went to Brampton tonight &
brought home the grist. Sister Elsie had a birthday party. 6 yrs old
June SUNDAY 14 1874
At Ebenezer U S. School this morning. Supt and Sec Treas. pres. lesson - Deuteronomy XVIII, 9 to 16
"The True Prophet" or Moses the type of Christ. Heard Rev Mr Matthews preach in W. M. Church in
Brampton at 6 P.M. text, I Peter 1st chap. 15th & 16th. A sermon on Holiness and was well delivered -
MONDAY 15
Had the team rolling the fallow. Was mowing with the scythe the grass in the front yard and on the
garden paths. A good prospect of a heavy rain is in view - Spent evening at the Lodge the members
turn out very poorly. "Chronicle" by Bro of A Morton - - - -
June TUESDAY 16 1874
Raining lightly most of last night and smartly all forenoon. Commenced cutting the rye for feeding the
cattle, it is just past the blossom and would average nearly 5 ft in height Working some in the garden at
transplanting melons and cucumbers in the lower bush splitting some maple logs. Raining again
tonight.
WEDNESDAY 17
Drove to Brampton this morning and sold K.C & Co 11 bush of spring wheat at $1.15. Father went to Dr.
Patullo for advice and medicine, he having been sick for a week past. Was grading and levelling the
road down the Etobicoke hill. Spent evening reading Carpenter's Comic Readings
June THURSDAY 18 1874
Working in the woods, sawing and splitting some fallen trees into cordwood and rails. Doing general job
work these days such as, pulling burs straightening up the fences destroying the currant worms and doing
a little in the garden A fine litter of eight Berkshires arrived today - - - - -
FRIDAY 19
Was horse hoeing the corn it is doing finely. 4 to 6 inches high spent rest of the day remodelling the
flower beds in front yard and hauling leaf mould from the woods for them. Viney and I drove to Brampton
this evening. At Choir Practice and had a good sing Mailed "Progress" to R J Nichols & "Banner" to
Uncle Thomas Harrington.
June SATURDAY 20 1874
Drawing leaf mould from lower bush and spreading it on the meo pasture field. At Brampton all
afternoon. Sold to T Milner 246 lbs of wool @ 40¢ Saw a Lacrosse Match between "Excelsiors" of
Brampton & "Beavers" of Guelph the former were victors Mailed "Weekly Globe" to Carthage Early
peas in blossom and potato bugs arriving daily
SUNDAY 21
Went to S. School this morning Supt abs he having gone on a trip to England. Sec pres. lesson - Deut
- the last chapter "The death of Moses". Mr N. V. Watson addressed the school. Heard Rev George
Beynon of Yorkville preach in Brampton tonight. text Matt V 4th.
June MONDAY 22 1874
Drove father to Brampton to Dr Patullo's for more medicine and advice - Took a jaunt over the field
potatoes and destroyed the Colorado bugs. they are worse on the "Chili" than the "Early Rose". Spent
evening at the Temple. a small meeting and a short session - - -
TUESDAY 23
Hauling the manure out of the sheep-house into a heap on the rye stubble and mixing it there, load for
load, with leaf mould An exceedingly hot day. Viney and I spent evening at "Willow Lodge" pleasantly
in chat about the crops and prospects . . . .
June WEDNESDAY 24 1874
At the same work as yesterday and completed the job. have now a fine pile of manure 30 loads which
will make a good compost in a few weeks - - Still cutting some rye for feeding the cattle but the straw is
getting almost too stiff and dry to do much good.
THURSDAY 25
Had our man "Joe" pulling up a new kind of weed that has sprung up in the meadows, it has a large
white flower with a yellow centre, and it will be a nuisance if not soon eradicated. Spent nearly all day at
Snell's lake, fishing had poor luck, caught six small sunfish.
June FRIDAY 26 1874
Drove to Brampton this morning with father to the Doctor's. Plenty of strawberries in the market now.
selling at 12½¢ per quart. Received a letter from Uncle Adam - J C Snell and family were here this
evening. At Choir Practice tonight. A fine misty rain but did not amount to much.
SATURDAY 27
An early horseback ride to Mr Guy Bell's on business. left home at 4:30 AM and was back again in time
for breakfast. Split the drills in the rape plot and sowed 3 lbs of rape seed on the acre the flies having eat
the first lot. Was hilling up the corn. some of it is one foot high - - - -
June SUNDAY 28 1874
At S. School this morning Sec Treas pres. lesson. Deuty
VIII chap. A Review of all the lessons of past
quarter, conducted by Messrs A Woodhall and J C Snell. The History of life of Moses is the most
interesting in the Old Testament. At Brampton tonight and heard Rev J G Scott's farewell sermon. text I
Samuel VII. 12th - - -
MONDAY 29
Horse hoeing the potatoes. Cutting thistles with hoe out of Hungarian grass plot Cutting with scythe the
grass in the fence corners around spring wheat and barley. Had a call this evening from Mr & Mrs J W
Main and Rev & Mrs Burns. Our English cherries are ripe. The heat was great the past two days.
June TUESDAY 30 1874
Drove to Brampton this forenoon in the buggy, taking father to the Doctor's. Received by mail July
Number "New York" Temperance Advocate Raking up and hauling in the fence corner grass, nearly 1/2
ton. Grinding the mower knifves and scythes for to start haying to morrow.
July WEDNESDAY 1 1874
Commenced hay harvest by mowing 3 acres beyond the creek. J C. Snell and family here to dinner.
We drove to Brampton to see Grand Lacrosse match "Champion Indians" vs "Excelsiors" a lively & hard
fought game Bramptonians were victorious Viney and I went to Concert tonight in New Hall
over
July THURSDAY 2 1874
The singing of Prof. Jones of Galt last night at Concert was the best I have ever heard, that is for a man.
Misses Barr & Ecclestone of Hamilton also sang very well. Today finished mowing the six acres of
meadow and hauled three small loads. The grass is lighter than last year. Weather dry and cool
FRIDAY 3
Hilling up the field potatoes with plow, are growing finely a few Colorado bugs but none to hurt much.
Horse raking hay and drew in 3 more loads. The evening set in with a fine thunder shower. A call
tonight from R Smith M.P. a neighbourly chat followed.
July SATURDAY 4 1874
Had a very heavy rain, it came down in torrents during last night. Spent forenoon at various jobs.
fixing the pump in the house well with new Cathers on suckers. At the hay, shaking it about and cocking
it up this evening. Mailed a letter yesterday to Uncle Adam, Bay City.
SUNDAY 5
At S. School this morning. Sec pres. lesson. Mark I 1 to 11, "The beginning of the Gospel". The
lesson well expounded by Mr N V Watson At Zion at 2 P.M. for service the first time for 15 months.
heard Rev Charles Smith preach text Philipians II. 5th. Heard the same sermon in Brampton tonight.
July MONDAY 6 1874
Cut with mower two acres of grass on the flats which completes that field, except two acres on the hill, to
be left for pasture. Hauled in 3 loads, making 10 loads from 6 1/2 acres. Do the after raking with the
hand swath rake. Spent evening at home - - - -
TUESDAY 7
Mowing the orchard grass with the scythes, it is a thinner crop than last year evidently killed out some by
the severity of last winter and spring. This afternoon had several very heavy thunder showers. the
lightening was very active. a large elm tree was shivered all to peices by it.
July WEDNESDAY 8 1874
Sowed with drill 1 lb of "Yellow Aberdeen" turnip seed on some patches where the other seed had failed.
the rest of "Swede" turnips are up well. Raking and cocking up the orchard grass. Hauling two loads of
the flats hay, not much injured by the rain. The weather is very warm mercury up to the Nineties
THURSDAY 9
Commenced mowing the field of timothy, a nice even crop but will be easily hauled in. Cleared the field
beyond the Etobicoke, had 13 loads off the ten acres. Raked up the hay that we cut this morning, it
was quite dry. Had a visit from Mrs H. Modeland, & Messrs J Bacham and Egerton Ferguson.
July FRIDAY 10 1874
A damp morning but not much rain. Cutting thistles in pasture fields with scythes Drew in 3 loads of
excellent timothy hay and 1 load of the orchard grass. Spent evening at Edmonton Temple No 543 a
fair attendance. some of the members have violated the pledge and will hurt the influence of the Lodge a
good deal.
SATURDAY 11
Weather unsettled, no haying operations done today. Picking the larvae of potato bugs off the field
potatoes. they are just hatching out and will be numerous. Started the job of hoeing and thinning out
the turnips, they are growing nicely. Received a letter from Aunt Jennie Rice & one from Mr Wakely of
Proton - -
July SUNDAY 12 1874
Attended Ebenezer U. S. School Sec. pres. and addressed the scholars on the lesson. Mark I 16 to 27.
"The Authority of Christ". J C Snell and family were here afternoon and to tea. A heavy east rain set in
about 4 oclock P.M. and did not get to Church tonight
MONDAY 13
The rain of last night and this forenoon was the heaviest of the season, the creek is raised fully one foot
by it. At the turnips and various work. Cutting grass with mower after tea. Cherries are ripe and
luscious. Oats and spring wheat are out in head. Green peas in the field
July TUESDAY 14 1874
Mowin all forenoon, and horse raking and cocking the rest of the day. Had a visit this evening from Mr J.
C. Smith, he is now living in London. Mailed letters to Bay City, Proton, Oshua and to Miss S. E.
Peacock Osborn Missouri. Aunty Trueman and Aunty Featherstone came this evening on a 3 days visit
WEDNESDAY 15
Hauled in five loads of good timothy hay, cured in one day without rain. Our visitors are enjoying
themselves, they generally pay us semi-annual visits and are always warmly received by us as two
excellent old ladies Had a very heavy thunder shower this evening the thunder was almost deafening
......
July THURSDAY 16 1874
The frequent showers of late are making growth of spring grain and root crop very rapid. The American
corn is nearly six feet high..... Completed the mowing at noon today. Horse-raking this afternoon and
hauling in some of the hay cut this morning.
FRIDAY 17
Completed the hay harvest 13 loads off the 10 1/2 acre field total number of loads 25 beside the 2
loads of orchard grass. Drove to Brampton this evening with our visitors Received a letter from R J
Nichols of Chicago.
July SATURDAY 18 1874
Working at the turnips all day. are growing finely now. Our neighbour Armstrong started harvest
yesterday in the rye. Green peas and ripe cherries & currants are the order of the day. The raspberries
are just coming in - - - -
SUNDAY 19
Spent morning at S School. Sec pres. Mr A Woodhall addressed the scholars on the lesson Mark I 38
to 45 - "The leper" Canadian Messenger given semi monthly to the scholars is an excellent little paper
the contents is always fresh and new. Heard Rev W Burns preach in Brampton tonight
July MONDAY 20 1874
Ended the job of thinning the turnips, once over them but will need another hoeing in about two weeks.
Put the horse hoe through the rape and turnips in half a day, requiring very steady work and a walk of 12
miles. Spent evening at home - - - -
TUESDAY 21
Started cross plowing with two teams in the fallow turning down the green buckwheat, it is about one
foot high on average and just coming in blossom Had a visit from Mr and Mrs Isaac A Modeland &
Egerton Ferguson. Dry weather and cool at nights
July WEDNESDAY 22 1874
Started harvest this morning by cutting with the reaper two acres of rye, it is a fair crop, the straw is
quite green but grain is ripe - - Viney, Eggie and I drove up to Snell's lake this evening and had a pleasant
boat ride in company with some young friends. fine moonlight made it delightful
THURSDAY 23
At the plowing again today turned under about three acres, pretty hard work on these warm days. Are
feeding the Yankee corn to the stock, some of it is over 6 ft high, is very soft and juicy, Cattle are very
fond of it.
July FRIDAY 24 1874
Cutting Diehl wheat with reaper, about 4 acres is so light and thin that it might have all grown on one
acre. Drove to Brampton after tea for groceries and to Post Office Received a letter from Uncle Adam.
Spent evening at Edmonton Temple, had a very good meeting. - - -
SATURDAY 25
Had a visitor with us over last night, John Fox, father's uncle from Mitchell. It is nearly 24 years since
he was here before, is a fine looking old man. At the fallow plowing and almost finished in the three
days. A very warm day indeed.
July SUNDAY 26 1874
Just preparing for S. School when it commenced raining and continued all forenoon. J C Snell and
family were here most of the day and passed the time with music, chat and reading. Perhaps not the
most profitable way to spend the Sabbath and am afraid not so much worship done.
MONDAY 27
Completed the cross-plowing and once harrowing the fallow. A F Campbell came on a few day's visit,
with his stylish new buggy, he has engaged to teach in Brampton day school for a year at $400. Spent
evening at home but ought to have gone to the temple as it is election of Officers to night
July TUESDAY 28 1874
Gave the turnips the second hand hoeing. they are growing slowly yet as the weather has been too
warm for them - - - The harvest comes on very tardily indeed, there being more or less rain all this
forenoon, reckon we will get a start tomorrow again. Planted 75 celery plants . . . . . . . . .
WEDNESDAY 29
With the help of J Learment at the binding we cut and bound five acres of the barley it is very nearly all
long enough to be tied easily, the shocks are very thick over the field. A F Campbell takes a trip to
Brampton every day and keeps a supply of the Toronto dailies - -
July THURSDAY 30 1874
Separated the ram lambs from their dams, 14 in all docked and put them to pasture on the meadow field
Hauled in the one load of fall wheat and three loads of rye. Miss Jennie Peacock came for a few days
visit.
FRIDAY 31
Resumed the work of reaping and binding barley, it has not ripened evenly this season, some spots
being dead ripe while others are quite green. Spent evening at the Lodge at Ebenezer they elected
their officers for next quarter and initiated a candidate . . .
August SATURDAY 1 1874
The harvest this year will be later than the average the weather having been for the most part cool and
cloudy - Finished cutting barley and swath raking the stubble. Started cutting the early peas with
scythe. A F Campbell left for home this evening. Received two papers from Oakville.
SUNDAY 2
Went to Brampton this morning to Quarterly meeting. Rev Chas Smith preached. text Phippians I, 6th
verse. an eloquent and impressive sermon. Mrs Matthew Pearen from Wyngham came home with us
from the church Heard Rev W Burns preach tonight, text II Corinthians IIII chap. 9th verse - -
August MONDAY 3 1874
Drawing in the barley from the "other place", commencing at 7:30 A.M. and getting home 9 loads again
night, it is of great advantage to have it bound when hauling in time comes and also packs close in the
mow. Viney and I spent evening at "Safe Guard" Temple Officers were installed by Bro Chas Y Moore
- -
TUESDAY 4
Cutting early peas this forenoon and finished the job, not quite 1½ acres. Finished hauling in the
barley, had 12 large loads of sheaves off the 8 acres. The weather is very dry and cool wind from
Northe and almost cool enough for frost at night - - - - -
August WEDNESDAY 5 1874
Our man Williams gave up work, having put in 4 months paid him his due except withholding $6.00 for
damages viz. leaving in harvest time. Was horse hoeing the turnips. Went to Brampton to night to see
P T Barnum's great menagerie from New York, a fine collection and variety of wild animals.
THURSDAY 6
Barnum's Show yesterday raised a greater crowd of people in Brampton than ever a Fall fair, the Centre
Road was almost lined with teams from early in the morning. Spent today at R. Armstrong's helping to
thresh barley, wheat and rye.
August FRIDAY 7 1874
Binding oats that were cut yesterday with machine, are rather green for harvesting yet, but the grain will
take no harm and straw will be better fodder. Viney & Emma were trying to learn to bind but the intense
heat of the weather soon drove them to the house.
SATURDAY 8
Helping our neighbour (this forenoon) J. Learment to cut and bind spring wheat - Spent afternoon
binding oats and cutting peas. the harvest comes on slowly but if the heat of the past two days continues
all will be ripe next week. Cousin Lizzie Ferguson came on a visit
August SUNDAY 9 1874
Drove spring wagon up to S. School. Sec pres lesson Mark IV 35 to 41 "Power over nature". J C Snell
addressed the scholars. Viney and I drove up to Willow Lodge & spent afternoon and evening in music
and social talk - An exceedingly warm day.
MONDAY 10
A young man Robert Rogers started work with us this morning for a few days @ $ 1.25 per diem. Cutting
peas this forenoon, pretty hard work have to be cut off instead of pulling by the roots. Had a short visit
from J J Bunting of Stratford. we spent evening at "Safe Guard" No 350 together.
August TUESDAY 11 1874
Had quite a brisk shower last evening which has stopped harvest work for a few hours this morning.
Was building a low cedar rail fence around the rape plot. Helping J Learment at wheat binding and
cutting and binding oats in the our old orchard field. Harvest apples are the choice fruit just now
WEDNESDAY 12
Memorable as the hottest day of this summer, the mercury stood at 100° in the shade of one of the
willows in the dooryard. Cutting peas in forenoon. After dinner with help of J. Learment, 4 of us bound 6
acres of spring wheat, a very fine crop.
August THURSDAY 13 1874
Again without hired help our day man had to go home last night. Was pulling peas all day, cut fully 1
1/4 acres, are pretty ripe and pull easily. Father Emma & Ellie finished binding the oats. Spent
evening at No 10 in social chat with the neighbours.
FRIDAY 14
At same work as yesterday After dinner, reaped the 6 acres of Manmoth spring wheat which was sown
on the fall wheat field, rather a thin crop, but the grain is very plump and handsome Weather dry. cool
at night and warm and smoky at day time.
August SATURDAY 15 1874
Completed binding the wheat and the end of binding for this year. Started drawing in the oats and
brought in 8 loads. Emma & Ella helping us in the mow. Was at work binding this morning long before
sunrise and working until dark to night.
SUNDAY 16
At S. School at Ebenezer Sec. pres. lesson Mark V 1 to 15. Christ's power over demons N V Watson
conducted the exeorcises. Heard Rev W Burns in W M Church at Brampton tonight text Galatians - V -
6th verse a plain practical discourse.
August MONDAY 17 1874
Finished hauling the oats had 11 loads of good size off 9 1/2 acres this is only a medium yield, oats
sown after sod require a great deal of rain in fore part of season to make heavy crop. Brought the spring
wheat from "other place" three loads the harvest is done on that part of the farm.
TUESDAY 18
Completed drawing the spring wheat, 8 large loads off 5 3/4 acres, the sheaves are very long and
heavy to handle. Started operations in the pea field by hauling in seven loads, are very dry and bulk
largely in the barn. Very smoky weather the sun looks like a ball of fire.
August WEDNESDAY 19 1874
Ella and cousin Lizzie Ferguson took the train for Toronto this morning. Received from Oakville a large
printed bill of Temperance Excursion across lake Ontario on Friday next, also Post Card from G H
Golding. Pulling peas this forenoon and hauled in six loads since dinner.
THURSDAY 20
A slight shower at 8 A.M. the (first rain for ten days) hardly enough to lay the dust. At same work as
yesterday brought in 5 more loads of peas, 18 in all and there are two loads yet in the field. For the
past three nights have pulled a ridge of peas after dark.
August FRIDAY 21 1874
A rainy afternoon, stopping harvest work for today. Spent forenoon pulling peas with horse rake, it does
the work well where the straw is long, but makes a dirty job where it is short. Spent evening at
Edmonton Temple. a slim meeting because of the rain.
SATURDAY 22
John R Craig & J. C. Snell arrived in Brampton last night from England, they have brought 90 sheep 4
Short Horns 12 Berkshires. Harrowed the fallow before dinner today After completed cutting peas and
brought in 3 more loads had 20 loads off 7½ acres.
August SUNDAY 23 1874
Went to S. School at 10 A.M. Sec pres. - lesson. - Mark V 24 to 34 "Power over disease". Mr. A
Woodhall addressed the scholars J C Snell and family here for afternoon and evening. At Brampton W
M church tonight heard Rev. James Dixon preach text Genesis XII chap He was preaching on this
Circuit 16 years ago.
MONDAY 24
"Harvest home" this evening had 25 loads of peas off 10 acres, in comparison with last year's pea crop
more straw but less grain. The harvest has been lengthy but easily disposed of because the grain
ripened slowly. Spent the evening at Brampton in Safe Guard no 350.
August TUESDAY 25 1874
Yesterday we cut the 2 1/4 acres of Hungarian grass and today horse raked it and drew in 3 loads, very
heavy to handle as dries slowly. Started marking the fallow into ridges 14 ft wide. Spent evening in
Brampton
WEDNESDAY 26
Brought in remainder of Hungarian, have six good sized loads. Finished the work of yesterday in fallow
At Brampton again to night at a meeting for to get up a W M S. School Picnick for Friday next.
August THURSDAY 27 1874
Commenced ridging the fallow, worked pretty steady all day and set up fully 1 3/4 acres. Viney and I
drove up to Willow Lodge this evening and had a moonlight view of the imported stock, the sheep and
Berkshires are fine indeed. Spent after part evening at Mrs J. Snell's on lot 14, singing chat with the
girls
FRIDAY 23
Plowing again this forenoon At 12 o'clock Viney, Emma, & I started in lumber wagon for Brampton to
attend with W.M. S. Scholars a picnic at Eldorado Mills on the Credit. I had seats arranged around the
out side of wagon and took 30 boys for a load. about 400 at picnic and we had a splendid time.
August SATURDAY 29 1874
Plowed nearly one acre this forenoon. Spent afternoon at Peel County Lodge meeting in Ebenezer
Church, a small attendance, representing six Lodges. After a lively discussion it was decided to hold a
County Picnic. A public meeting at night, speech by Rev W Burns reading by R Burns. music by the
Misses Mary & Emma Nichols.
SUNDAY 30
At S. School this morning Supt pres after an absence of 2 months in England, sec pres lesson Mark
V 35 to 43. Jesus' power over death. Heard Rev Charles Smith preach in Brampton tonight. text John
XI 25 & 26th A very pointed and practical discourse.
August MONDAY 31 1874
Plowing all day in the fallow. Father hauled in some of the Yankee corn which was cut a few days ago,
measured on stalk 10 ft 10 inch in height spent evening at "Safe Guard" one initiated, a good
programme of entertainment. Mailed a letter to R J Nichols, Chicago Bought steel watch chain and key
off W A Mitchell
TUESDAY 1
Remarkably dry scorching weather, several of the young shade and apple trees have withered, the
least stir or wind raises a cloud of dust which is almost suffocating. At the same work as yesterday and
plowed fully two acres. The blue plums are just ripe
September WEDNESDAY 2 1874
Completed plowing the fallow for the third and last time this season, averaged two acres per day at this
last plowing. Another very warm day. Had a call from J C Snell tonight, he brought some fine
tomatoes from home, our own have almost proved a failure this summer.
THURSDAY 3
Sowed the fall wheat and harrowed it, in six hours. Got 6 bush of Diehl wheat from J Learment and
mixed with 10 bush of Treadwell and sowed on the 9 acres. A shower of rain this morning and another
since has broken the drought of two weeks duration.
September FRIDAY 4 1874
Run out the cross furrows and shovelled the same and thus wound up the fall wheat seeding, Had a few
very light showers during the day but it has speedily dried off, Spent evening at Choir Practice, had a
right good sing in spite of some sore throats. Received paper from Oakville.
SATURDAY 5
Father went to Brampton with grist and chopping of peas. Spent the day hauling manure from the
compost pile unto the ground to be prepared for rye. Spent evening reading the "County Gentleman"
and other papers.
September SUNDAY 6 1874
Went to S. School this morning Supt and Sec abs, lesson Mark VI 20 to 29 "The martyrdom of John the
Baptist. Mr N V Watson addressed the school. Viney and I spent afternoon at "Willow Lodge" present
two gentlemen form Kentucky Heard Rev W McFadden peach in Brampton tonight. text, Matt, XXIV
14th
MONDAY 7
Helping our neighbor Mr D Wiggins to thresh, until tea time. This evening, G H Golding and I drove up to
Campbell's Cross and visited the Temple which meets there, had a lively and pleasant meeting, about
50 of members present, had a great variety of readings and music. Got home at the "wee sma" hour.
September TUESDAY 8 1874
Today, finished hauling and spreading the manure pile and started plowing the rye ground, it is hard and
dry. A very warm day, the sun shone brightly in a cloudless sky, smokying around the horizon. Rain
is needed badly just now.
WEDNESDAY 9
Plowing all day, turned over fully 1 1/2 acres. Our folks drove up to Willow Lodge and spent the day
there and at the lake. At home this evening, and engaged in writing up the class books of Ebenezer S.
School.
September THURSDAY 10 1874
At the same work as yesterday, with two plows. An extremely hot day, the mercury within a trifle of 100°
in the shade. Wild pigeons are plentiful some of the neighbors who have leisure are shooting them in
the woods hard by.
FRIDAY 11
Wound up plowing the rye ground. Hauled in some of the American corn out of the shock, will make
good fodder when cut up. Viney and I drove to Derry West tonight to attend a concert, the singers were
Prof Jones of Galt & Miss J C Morton, readers McCollum, J Morton and J E Starr.
September SATURDAY 12 1874
Helping our neighbor Mr Robert Armstrong to thresh all day. Received last night from Uncle T J
Harrington a printed circular about some mineral springs which he is trying for his health. From J Coyne,
bought a pair of long boots for winter wear @$4.75
SUNDAY 13
As usual, drove spring wagonload of my sisters up to S. School Supt abs, Sec Treas pres and
conducted the school, lesson Mark VI,34 to 44,"five thousand miraculously fed." Heard Rev W Burns in
Brampton tonight, text, Genesis, I, 25th
September MONDAY 14 1874
Sowed 8 bush. of rye on 4 1/4 acres of ground, for pasture next spring. Sold the first Cotswold lamb to
Mr B Watson @$ 15,00. Spent evening in Brampton at the Lodge, a very slim meeting, the temple is
fast losing popularity among the young folks.
TUESDAY 15
Making the necessary preparations for threshing tomorrow. A nice shower at noon, which has broken up
the long spell of dry, hot weather. This afternoon drove over to Eldorado Mills to attend the County
Temperance Picnic, it passed off quietly about 400 persons present.
September WEDNESDAY 16 1874
Threshing all day with A. Rossiter's machine, wheat about 140 bush, barley about 300 bush, the latter is
a very fair sample but the wheat is only middling. Cool and pleasant today, & almost a frosty feeling to
night. Received last night a letter from Mr Crawford of Toronto.
THURSDAY 17
Had a call yesterday from Mrs John Newhouse of St. Catherines Finished our threshing shortly before
noon today, of oats we will have about 250 bush also threshed 20 bush of rye. A splendid rain set in
from the east at noon and lasted until after dark tonight.
September FRIDAY 18 1874
Spent the day helping neighbour J Learment to thresh, a head wind drove the dust back into the barn
making it very dusty work. Viney and I drove to Brampton tonight, to attend choir practice, a pretty full
attendance and some good solo singing by the ladies.
SATURDAY 19
Was washing the ram lambs in the creek, the water is very warm for this season Picking up the fallen
apples of which there are a great many, some of them are partly roasted by the intense heat last week.
Received a letter from Uncle Adam they have had some sickness this summer.
September SUNDAY 20 1874
Went on horseback to S. School this morning. the heavy rain of last night has made it very muddy. Supt
abs. Sec pres. lesson Mark VII, 24 to 30, "The Syro phoenician mother" At Brampton W. M. S. School
this afternoon and Choir practice at 4 P.M. Heard Rev W Burns preach at 6 oclock, text, John III 3rd
verse.
MONDAY 21
Threshing at Mr. Jabez Heath's today. Walked to Brampton this evening and went with W. M. Choir over
to Springbrook to sing at a S. S. Tea meeting. Had a very pleasant time, both at the meeting and the
moonlight drive, the speakers were Revs James Pringle and T Argue. Got home at midnight
September TUESDAY 22 1874
Threshing today at Mr. Robert Smith's. Have spent a whole week at threshing. about tired of the job now
and especially of the dust. Father and Viney went to Toronto this morn by train to attend the Exhibition
Weather is cool and pleasant Grain market is getting lively wheat at a low figure $1,00 per bush barley
at 94¢
WEDNESDAY 23
Donned my good clothes at 10. A.M. and walked to Brampton took G.T.R. Train at 12 o'clock for Toronto
to attend Provincial Exhibition. Took tea and staid all night at Aunt Lizzie's. Spent evening at
Metropolitan W M Church hearing a lecture by Rev Gervase Smith of England on "The trial of the seven
bishops"
September THURSDAY 24 1874
Went to the Fair Grounds at 7 o'clock this morning, and had a good view of farm machinery and through
the Crystal Palace before the crowd was so great. There were over 30,000 people at the Fair today. In
the live stock the show was not so large as other years but the quality was superior. Came home on
train at 7 P.M.
FRIDAY 25
Spent the day helping Mr Tho's Simpson to thresh. Viney and I went with the Brampton Choir down to
"Salem" Church, to sing at a S. School anniversary, the readings and recitiations by the children were
well delivered. There were 28 of us in the wagon splendid moonlight and lots of fun.
September SATURDAY 26 1874
Our potato harvest started yesterday, and promises a very bountiful yield. In the two days we have
brought in to the cellar 65 bush of "Early Rose" off scarcely 1/3rd of an acre. Drove to Brampton this
evening for Aunt Jennie Rice, she has been in Toronto at Fair this week and came on train tonight to
pay us a visit
SUNDAY 27
A rainy day, coming down right smartly from 9 A.M. until near evening. Spent the day at home, reading,
singing and general conversation Would not like to spend every Sunday in this manner, it is more
wearisome than being hard at work. Weather is warm and grass growing nicely.
September MONDAY 28 1874
Commenced the first regular fall plowing today by cross plowing pea stubble ground. Sowed one bush of
timothy seed on the bare spots in the barley field, it was seeded last spring. Drove to Brampton and
spent evening at the lodge little business on hand and we adjourned at an early hour.
TUESDAY 29
Sold a lamb yesterday to Mr A Franks of Caledon at $18.00 At the potatoes again and hauled in 25 bush
"Early Rose", total 90 bush; 10 bush of "Garnet Chili. Mr and Mrs J C Snell started for London this
evening to attend the Western Fair.
September WEDNESDAY 30 1874
Completed the potato harvest, have fully 90 bush "Early Rose" & 22 of Garnet Chili. all of good size and
fine appearance. Viney and I drove over to Mr Golding's 3rd line east and spent afternoon and evening
in games and chat with the young folks and time passed quickly and pleasantly
October THURSDAY 1 1874
Yesterday we felt the first cold blast of the Autumn and today moderated some. a heavy rain has started
tonight. Spent the day cross plowing. Father was picking apples in young orchard for winter use.
October FRIDAY 2 1874
Plowing today with both teams. Spent evening at home trying to interpret a pictorial rebus, published in
"Peel Banner" and almost succeeded, will take a little more study. Snell & Sons were showing their
stock at the London Fair this week.
SATURDAY 3
Spent the day picking apples in old orchard, had the barrels standing in the wagon and drove close
under the trees, picked 11 barrels mostly hard winter apples of large size. Had a visit this evening from
Mr G. H. Golding of Brampton.
October SUNDAY 4 1874
Drove up to S. School this morning, Supt abs, Sec pres. Mr N V Watson spoke to the scholars on the
lesson John I 2 Mark VII, 31st to end of chap "The deaf mute healed". J C Snell & family were here for
the day. Heard Rev W Burns preach tonight, text John I, 29th verse.
MONDAY 5
Father drove Aunt Jennie Rice down to G.T.R. Depot this morning, she has paid us an 8 days visit.
Spent the day in old orchard and gathered in all of the apples, about 20 barrels for winter use, and 12
barrels of soft apples for immediate use. This evening paring and choring apples for drying.
October TUESDAY 6 1874
Rain started last evening and has continued more or less ever since (24 hours) and is raining yet (9 PM).
The Peel County Fair is held today and to morrow at Brampton. Spent today fixing up the lambs and
making preparation for the show tomorrow. Aunt Lizzie came from Toronto tonight on a visit. Weather
is warm for this season.
WEDNESDAY 7
A showery day, the roads very muddy. Spent the day at Brampton Fair. the show in nearly all
departments was very good. Sold 7 ram lambs at an average of $13.00 each, prices from $11 to $18.00.
A great number of horses and cattle but sheep rather limited. The show in Hall was very good.
October THURSDAY 8 1874
Another wet day but not heavy rain. Spent morning in sheep pen, docking and assorting the sheep &c
&c At cross plowing after dinner with both teams, the ground is almost too wet in some places. Spent
evening entirely at music, trying the new temperance book, "The Canadian Musical Fountain"
Friday 9
Completed the plowing of the pea land. Three of the parties the who bought lambs at the fair called for
them today. The is quite warm, no frost yet to kill tomato vines. Had a visit this evening from Mr H
Golding and his two sisters Louisa and Sarah, they are lively talkers and good company.
October SATURDAY 10 1874
Rain, rain and plenty of it. Spent most of the day in the barn husking corn, it is a very fine sample and
ears large. Received from Mr Preston of Esquesing for a lamb $15.00. Received post card from
Buffalo, N.Y. concerning American Short-Horn Herd Book; and to all Canadian Breeders
SUNDAY 11
Went to S. School on "Charley" through the mud, Supt abs, Sec pres, and conducted the school,
lesson, Mark IX 17 to 29 "The dumb devil cast out" The new young Wesleyan minister preached at Zion
at 2:30 P.M. Heard Rev T. Sims (PM) preach in W M Church tonight, text, Matt XIII, 1st to 7th. A
good practical sermon.
October MONDAY 12 1874
Finished running out furrows in pea land and started the plowing in spring wheat stubble it is in fine tilth.
Spent evening at the S. School Anniversary of the Wesleyans in Brampton, had able speakers from
Toronto, Poole, Hunter, and Watson, singing by the scholars. Went to G T R Depot at 12 P.M.
TUESDAY 13
Arrived in Guelph at 2 A.M. Took G W R cars at 7 oclock to Harrisburg and thence to town of Brantford,
got there at 9 A.M. Walked out with a large company to "Bow Park" 3 miles east of town to attend Hon
George Brown's auction sale of Short-Horns. He has here a farm of 900 acres on flats of Grand river,
the farm buildings are very extensive.
October WEDNESDAY 14 1874
The eleventh Annual S. School Convention is now being held in Brantford. Spent last evening at the
meeting in Presb. Church some able speeches bearing on S. S. Question Was billetted last night at the
residence of Mrs Gillen, a very pleasant home. Today at morning and afternoon sessions of Convention,
there is a deep interest manifested in the Sunday school work.
THURSDAY 15
Left Brantford last evening (it is a handsome town of 10,000 inhabitants the buildings substantial and the
streets neat and clean) and reached Brampton at 5.30 A.M. having a tedious delay at Guelph of over 6
hours. The music at Convention was conducted by Mr Woolet of Chicago using the "Royal Diadem", he
is a good singer and added much to the interest of the meeting.
October FRIDAY 16 1874
Sold and delivered yesterday and today 112 bush of barley to K.C. & Co. at 91¢ per bush, the market is
almost glutted with barley at present. Was plowing today in wheat stubble, it works rather stiff as the
clay is near the surface in many places. Spent evening at choir practice. Received a letter from R J
Nichols of Chicago.
SATURDAY 17
At same work as yesterday. The wooden beam plow failed to work satisfactorily, so had to take it to
Edmonton for necessary repairs. Messrs Joshua and George Modeland's farm was sold by auction in
Brampton @ $6,800 to a Mr Gray. Weather is pleasant, cold and frosty at night.
October SUNDAY 18 1874
Father and mother went to Brampton church this morning. My sisters walked up to S. School and I kept
house alone. Supt was pres at school, lesson, Mark IX 33 to 42 "The Mind of Christ" J C Snell and
family were here for tea, he is for a two weeks tramp to Kentucky this week. Heard Rev W McFadden
preach tonight text, James I 25th verse
MONDAY 19
Engaged at plowing, turned over 1 1/3 acres. Had visitors for dinner and afternoon, Mrs J M Joness of
Bowmanville & Rev W McFadden of Brampton Had the wood plow brought home from shop, a new
sole shear and coulter laid cost $3.00 Bought of Benj Watson a fine home made cheese, weight 23 lbs
@ $2.75
October TUESDAY 20 1874
Completed plowing the field and the cross furrows. Messrs Pickering & King put a new pump in our
barnyard well, it is neat and well finished with latest improvements $10.00 Made a bargain with Jas
Sewell a certain amount of logs in bush for 8 dys work. A bright warm day. Spent evening at home
paring apples.
WEDNESDAY 21
Started plowing across the oat stubble field (old orchard) today, it is heavy work, being harrowed last
spring when wet it is packed hard in the bottom. Sold a lamb to Mr John W Smith @ $12.00 six months
credit. Was helping J Woodhall to thresh.
October THURSDAY 22 1874
A severe frost last night, the face of nature was hoary for nearly an hour after bright sunrise. At the
plowing with both teams. Brought in the garden stock of beets, only a small lot. Had a visit this evening
from Mr G H Golding.
FRIDAY 23
At same work as yesterday. At noon hour we docked and assorted the ewe lambs and sold 2 aged ewes
to Mr McCollum @ $7.00, bought of him a hind quarter of beef @ $6.00. At Brampton tonight to Choir
Practice a rather small turn out. Bought at Bannister's a sett of parlor croquet $1.00, a photo album @
$1.75
October SATURDAY 24 1874
Still at the plowing, the ground works better on the knolls than in lower parts of field. Sold to Mr Saml
Huxley, 3 breeding ewes of 4 or 5 years of age. Father went to Brampton today to attend auction sales
of real estate, also received from C.P.A. Society the prize money $2.00 on sheep Mailed yesterday to
Markam to Bell Foundry the sum of $10.00
SUNDAY 25
Drove to S. School at 10 A.M. supt & Sec abs, lesson, Mark X, 46 to 52, "Healing the blind man
Bartimaeus". Mr N.V. Watson addressed the school. Spent afternoon at writing up S.S. class books
and at music Heard Mr Thos Holtby preach in Brampton, text, John XVI 31st A warm pleasant day as
fine as summer.
October MONDAY 26 1874
Finished plowing the orchard field and run the cross furrows of which there are but a few the field having
a fine slope to the Etobicoke. The weather is splendid, no frost at night. a total eclipse of the moon took
place on Sunday morning last at 2 oclock. Evening at home at family apple paring bee.
TUESDAY 27
Took ten bags of small apples up to Mr Robert Watson's and made with his mill 38 gallons of cider of
excellent quality. paid him for use of mill 75¢. Sold a ram lamb to Mr Peter Chisholm @ $12. This
evening was spent at similiar employment as the last one.
October WEDNESDAY 28 1874
At sunrise this morning, started for Caledon, Lot 1. 1st Conc. east, with wagon and plow, to a plowing bee
for Miles Thompson, he has rented the farm and just making the first start for himself in life. There were
five plows at work all day, turning over about six acres of stubble land. the soil is a gravelly loam. We
had our meals at Mr R. Elliott's on. No 2. Got home at 9 P.M. feeling tired & sleepy.
THURSDAY 29
Today has been appointed by the Governor General (Lord Dufferin) to be set apart for public thanksgiving
to the Almighty for the bountiful harvest, peace and prosperity which prevails throughout the Dominion
Our folks heard Rev J Baikie Presb. preach in Brampton this morning. Spent the day making and
shovelling furrows in oat field
October FRIDAY 30 1874
Commenced operations in the turnip plot, with a hoe cutting off tops from turnips they are mostly under
the average size and will be considerably under an average crop. Spent evening at Edmonton Temple
they elected their Officers for ensuing term, the attendance of members is not so good as it should be.
SATURDAY 31
At same work as on yesterday. Drew in 5 small loads and put them in driving house cellar. Quite a cold
day, with light westerly snow showers. Barley is now selling @ $1.00 per bush in Brampton. "Hallow-
E'en" is a fine time for mischeivous boys, but not so commonly observed as it used to be some years ago.
November SUNDAY 1 1874
Drove up to S. School at 10 A.M. Supt pres. Sec abs, lesson, Mark XI, 19 to 24, "The fig tree withered",
a pointed & instructive lesson is taught by this incident Misses Jennie Peacock & Elsie Modeland spent
the day here. Heard Rev Mr Bell preach in Brampton tonight, text, I Thessns
V 17th verse A good
practical sermon indeed.
MONDAY 2
Rutabaga harvest continued. Had the help of a man (J Sewell), pushed the work lively as the weather is
fine and dry. Drew in 8 loads beside doing a good deal at topping. At Brampton tonight and heard Mr
Bengough (the cartoonist of the Grip) deliver comic lecture Pleasantries of Public Life with illustrations
November TUESDAY 3 1874
At the turnips. brought in ten loads, have the remainder plowed out, The stock of all kinds are now
living on the tops of which they are very fond. Spent evening entirely at home at music. Are having
Indian summer now, sky cloudless, around the horizon hangs a dense cloud of blue smoke.
WEDNESDAY 4
Harvest is really over for 1874 Brought in the last of the turnips, in all 26 loads, about 750 bush from 2
1/4 acres, not a great yield but they will be of great service next spring feeding stock. Spent afternoon
helping J Learment at work. Had visitors this evening Mrs Grimshaw & Misses K F & S W Snell also
Mr & Mrs Robert Armstrong.
November THURSDAY 5 1874
Spent forenoon hauling off the field turnip tops for the stock. After dinner started the plow to work in
Hungarian grass sod plot, it works in fine order. Drove up to Willow Lodge and spent evening in
conversation with the folks J C Snell will be home tomorrow from Kentucky where he has been for two
weeks at Short-Horn Sales.
FRIDAY 6
At same work as yesterday Also moved a cedar rail fence to divide a field and protect the green rye from
the ravages of the cattle and sheep. Received $14.00 from Mr Bustle of Hornby the balance of pay for a
lamb. At Brampton tonight at Choir Practice.
November SATURDAY 7 1874
At the plowing again today. Also harrowing down the corn hills and potato drills preparatory to plowing
the ground Father went to the business meeting of the Quarterly Board on Church matters. In
Brampton they have decided to buy a pipe organ for W M Church to cost $1000.00 of which over $600
are already subscribed.
SUNDAY 8
At the Quarterly Meeting in Brampton this morning, Rev J H Starr of Streetsville preached, text
Galatians VI, 9th verse. A large attendance and a very good meeting. Heard the same preacher again
tonight, text, Luke XIII 24th, a plain, practical sermon. A fine warm day, with a smoky atmosphere
November MONDAY 9 1874
Spent forenoon helping our neighbour J Learment, turning live hogs into pork. After noon plowing corn
stubble ground with both teams. At Brampton this evening and at "Safe Guard" Lodge No 350, the
officers were installed by G H Golding, T.D. W.C.T. Bro J H Ferguson, W.S. H W Dawson.
TUESDAY 10
Mailed last night a letter to New York and a "Banner" to Uncle Adam, F. Bay City, Michigan. Plowing
today in turnip ground, very heavy work on both man and beast. Weather continues warm and dry,
very little frost at night. Spent evening at home playing table croquet.
November WEDNESDAY 11 1874
Completed the plowing for this year, by finishing the turnip ground, cleaned the plows and stowed them
away for winter quarters in the shed Have plowed this fall about 29 acres beside the 13 acres of fall
wheat and rye. Fanning up peas threshed by J Sewell, have about 70 bush of this years crop threshed.
THURSDAY 12
Built a stone culvert over the road ditch at the front gate, in place of the old plank bridge, the stones
used were large square sided stones gathered from the fields. Had a call from Mr John William Green of
New York is a smart looking young man engaged extensively in the livery business. Hard frosts these
nights.
November FRIDAY 13 1874
Spent the most of day in the barn, removing chaff and winter feed and threshing peas. Sold to T
Crawforth the last of ram lambs at $6.00. At Brampton tonight at Choir Practice. Received a letter from
Mr J J Bunting of Kincardine.
SATURDAY 14
Sold to K.C. & Co. 51 bush of barley @ $1.11 per bush Had an introduction to Mrs Watson of England, a
Temperance Lecturess who is going to spend a week in Brampton and vicinity. Mr J R Craig sold his
farm by Auction @ $62.75 per acre.
November SUNDAY 15 1874
At S. School this forenoon Supt and Sec pres, lesson Mark XII, 38 to 44, "Hypocrisy and Piety". In
company with J C Snell went to Brampton at 3 PM. and heard Mrs Watson speak in Town Hall on the
"Hospitals of "London England" Heard Rev Mr Bell preach tonight, text I Corinthians XV, 56th
MONDAY 16
Spent day working the wood yard, putting it in order and sawing old rails for firewood. Father, mother &
Viney spent the day at Mr Joseph Pearen's. At Brampton tonight and at the Lodge. Mr J Euart became
a member of the Order. We had a melodeon on trial and will be purchased for the Temple.
November TUESDAY 17 1874
A rainy morning. Spent the day applying McDougall's sheep dip on our whole flock of sheep (26). and
also put some of same mixture on the cattle. Tonight with a party of nine Good Templars including "Mrs
Watson of England" we drove down to Churchville and visited "Polar Star" Lodge I.O.G.T.
WEDNESDAY 18
Was engaged in hauling leaf mould from the woods, for the garden, drew 5 loads. Had a call from Mr
James Thompson of 4th line east. Spent this evening in Brampton at a lecture given by Mrs Watson on
the "Magnitude of London". A good lecture and a large audience.
November THURSDAY 19 1874
Spent forenoon firing a large stone in center of orchard field This afternoon was hauling firewood for Jas
Sewell, off the line of C V Railway in the "other place" woods. This evening we had a general melee and
slaughter in the poultry house killing and dressing 14 hens for the market.
FRIDAY 20
A snow storm about three inches fell last night, spent the day choring around and making preparations
for winter. This evening Mrs Watson lectured in Ebenezer Church to a full house on the "The Street
Arabs of London" A load of Brampton young people were up at the meeting.
November SATURDAY 21 1874
Mrs Watson staid at our place last night. This morning I drove her down to Brampton in time for 9 o'clock
train, she will attend the Grand Lodge, I.O.G.T. next week at Brockville. Sold to J C Snell two Berkshire
hogs 5 months old @ $12.50 each. Sold to Mr Marshall of Boston a shearling Cotswold ram @ $20.00
SUNDAY 22
Went to S. School (at 10 A.M. Supt and Sec. pres lesson Mark XIV 3 to 9th "The Anointing of Christ at
Bethany". Rev Mr Bell preached at Zion this afternoon and tonight in Brampton, text, Psalm XCVI 11th
verse, a deeply impressive sermon, abounding with striking illustrations and full of spiritual fire.
November MONDAY 23 1874
Father made a friendly call on our new neighbour Mr Davis and met with a warm reception Commenced
chopping firewood in lower bush, some fallen trees the result of last summer's storm. Mailed a letter to R
J Nichols, Chicago; and a "Peel Banner" to J J Bunting, Kincardine. Spent evening at Temple, small
attendance, a stormy night.
TUESDAY 24
A wintry day, snow squalls from the west. At same work as yesterday, there are not many trees down
by the windfalls this season. Spent evening at home, playing on melodeon, reading and conversation.
November WEDNESDAY 25 1874
Gristed at Main's milll in Brampton 13 bush of mixed "Diehl" and "Farrow" wheat. Sold to Mrs Trueman 2
bags of "Early Rose" potatoes @ 90c each. This afternoon was making a maul and axe handles.
Received a letter from Aunt Jennie Rice of Oshawa.
THURSDAY 26
To day was at a variety of jobs. Hauling leaf mould to cover the flower beds; hauling building stones for
the projected new cow house and firing stumps and brush heaps on the edge of the woods. Spent
evening writing a letter to J J Bunting of Kincardine to be mailed to morrow.
November FRIDAY 27 1874
At pretty much the same class of work as yesterday. At Brampton this evening and heard Prof. Shaw in
the Concert Hall explain the tricks and delusions of the doctrine of the Spiritualists, very thoroughly, also
read several peices, mostly comic, in first class style.
SATURDAY 28
Snowing all day from N. East. Doing indoor work as much as possible, threshing a peck of white
beans, and cutting corn stalks with straw cutter, &c &c. J C Snell called this evening on his way home
from Toronto.
November SUNDAY 29 1874
Nearly one foot of snow. Drove sleigh up to S. School at 10 A.M. Supt and Sec pres, lesson, Mark
XIV, 42 to 50, "The Betrayal of Jesus by Judas". After the school we had a meeting to make
arrangements for an anniversary party, 30th Dec. was fixed for the day and committees appointed to get
things ready. Spent evening at home.
MONDAY 30
Chopping in the woods. A cold freezing day and a foot of light snow made it cold work for the feet at
chopping. J C Snell called for one of the Berkshires to ship for the state of Wisconsin. Spent evening at
the Temple, a slim meeting once more.
December TUESDAY 1 1874
Delivered two cords of dry, soft wood at the "Ashery" in Brampton and received for it $2.00 per cord.
Bought at Burnett's 35 ft of 1/2 inch planed basswood lumber @ 2¢ per ft for a croquet table. Spent
evening at Willow Lodge, the music committee for S.S. Party met there for business, after which we
spent a few hours in games, charades, &c. Mailed to Napanee subscription for "Casket."
WEDNESDAY 2
Hauling up cordwood and piling it up ready for the circular saw. Yesterday bought at Peaker's store a
cross cut saw and flat file @ $5.50. At Brampton tonight and ordered for the S. School at Bannister's 6
copies of the "Royal Diadem". The sleighing is just about done, thawing tonight very fast.
December THURSDAY 3 1874
A fine warm day, some of the neighbours are plowing. Walked over to 3rd line east Lot 14 to attend Mr
Joshua Modeland's Auction Sale of farm stock and implements, the greater part of the articles offered
brought fair prices We bought a Short Horn bull 10 mths old @ $80.00, named "Momentam" Thos
Robinson auctioneer.
FRIDAY 4
At the woods across the creek cutting the hemlock saw logs with the new cross cut saw, it works very
well but is rather short (5 1/2 ft) for any large timber. Spent evening at home paring apples for drying
purposes.
December SATURDAY 5 1874
This forenoon went over to Mr Joshua Modeland's and brought home from thence the ShoRt Horn bull
calf aged months, "Momentum" and paid cash $74.00 the discount being 8 per cent for eleven
months. In Brampton this evening and bought at K.C.& Co. a $18.00 overcoat of brown beaver, also
some articles in hardware.
SUNDAY 6
Drove spring wagon to S.School Supt pres, Sec pres, lesson, Mark XIV, 66 to 72, "The denial of Christ
by Peter," Had a short practice after the school of the tunes for the anniversary. Heard Rev W Burns
preach in Brampton tonight, text Hebrews III 1st verse.
December MONDAY 7 1874
Spent the day chopping up the hemlock tops into firewood. Walked to Brampton tonight and mailed a
letter to Oshawa (George Rice). Received from Aleck Campbell the a copy of first number of the new
Tory paper "Conservator" for this County. At Lodge this evening, one initiated.
TUESDAY 8
With the help of J Sewell, at 50 cents per day, sawed with cross cut saw 14 logs of hemlock, cuttings the
trees down about one half of which were dry and lifeless. A cold freezing day. no snow. At home
tonight and had a busy evening, writing music, &c.
December WEDNESDAY 9 1874
Work in the bush continued cutting mostly dry hemlocks which are always sound if but recently dead.
This afternoon Viney, Emma & I drove up to Willow Lodge and thence to the residence of Mrs John Snell
where we spent a couple of hours Then over to Ebenezer to the S. S. Practice for Anniversary.
THURSDAY 10
Completed the sawing of the hemlock logs and started on the basswood, beech and elm for beams and
sleepers, also cutting considerable firewood out of the tops and small ends of the logs. Weather is
moderate. The Christmas fat cattle show at Guelph today.
December FRIDAY 11 1874
Finished for the present the work at the timber having now sufficient cut and ready for hauling home with
the first sleighing. Paid Jno Sewell for 3 1/2 day's work $1.75. At Brampton tonight and went to Choir
Practice. Mailed to J J Bunting two copies of the "Conservator". Received a letter from J.J.B. and one
from Uncle Adam.
SATURDAY 12
With the help of Jno Learment we killed and dressed for pork the 2 yr old Berkshire sow, weight 324 lbs
and a five month pig, weight 142 lbs. Sold to K.C.& Co. the old sow @ $8.00 per cwt and bought two
porkers weighing 150 lbs each, total pork kept for the year's consumption 750 lbs.
December SUNDAY 13 1874
Spent forenoon at S. School Supt and Sec pres, lesson, Mark XV 22 to 39, "The Crucifixion of Jesus
Christ," A large attendance of scholars [ink blot] exercises were interesting and instructive both for soul
and body. Snow started falling this morning so that tonight we drove cutter to Brampton and he{ink
blot}d Rev W Burns preach, text, Romans I 16th verse
MONDAY 14
Mailed this morning three letters one to Uncle Adam, one to Mr John Tribble of Amaranth and the third a
short note to Mr J. E. Pearen of Woodhill. Received from J C Snell a cheque on "Merchants" Bank for
$70.00 being amount due us for 5 Berkshire @ $14.00 each. Spent evening at the Lodge, one initiated.
December TUESDAY 15 1874
Commenced the task of hauling the timber for the cow house, worked at until noon. After dinner Viney,
Emma, and I drove over to 6 line east No 8 to visit at Mr John Pearen's. We spent afternoon and
evening very pleasantly with the young folks, at social and music, &c &c. Got home about 10 o'clock
P.M.
WEDNESDAY 16
At same work as yesterday. Drew on the sleigh today 14 sticks of timber from 19 ft to 32 ft in length,
piling them up in the wood yard to be in readiness for hewing early next spring. spent evening at S. S.
Practice at Ebenezer, a good attendance of scholars and they sang well.
December THURSDAY 17 1874
Finished hauling the timber in all about 25 pieces, also drew the remainder of the cordwood from "other
place" woods and brought two loads of stone for the foundation from the fields. Received a letter from
Aunt Annie Ferguson of Missouri telling us of the dangerous illness of her husband. Spent evening at
Willow Lodge in social chat and music.
FRIDAY 18
This forenoon, hauling black ash rails from "other place" woods for the fence S. W. of old orchard field.
Afternoon , led "Oliver Twist" to Brampton and weighed him on market scales, 1825 lbs, sold him to T
Crawforth @ 3 1/2¢ per lb. Spent evening at "Edmonton Lodge", one initiated and had a nice quiet
meeting.
December SATURDAY 19 1874
Hauling basswood rails from woods and piling them up in yard for future use. Spent afternoon in
Brampton at a mass meeting of Reformers K Chisholm was nominated for Ontario Parliament,
speeches by Mr Hodgins of Brant Co., and W Barber of Halton Co. Mailed a letter to John Ferguson
Missouri Received a letter from Oshawa.
SUNDAY 20
Drove a sleigh load of scholars up to S. School, Supt pres, Sec pres, lesson, Mark XVI 9 to 20, "Our
risen Lord". We received the last supply of "Canadian Messenger" for the year for our school, it is a
good little paper. Heard tonight in Brampton the Rev Mr Reynolds from Albion preach, text, John III
16th verse.
December MONDAY 21 1874
Finished hauling the rails have nearly 500 very good ones and a reserve of 250 cedar rails. J C Snell
brought us a small family of Berkshires 5 in number 2 months old for to keep through the winter for him.
Spent evening at Safe Guard Lodge No 350 I.O.G.T., one lady initiated, the attendance of members
small
TUESDAY 22
J. C. S. came for the last two of the five Berkshires he bought from us. This forenoon was spent working
at a croquet board for amusement in the evenings Drew 2½ cords of firewood from lower bush. The
weather is very moderate.
December WEDNESDAY 23 1874
Drove to Brampton this morning with father, mother and Elsie who started for Oshawa to pay our friends a
Christmas visit. Spent evening at Ebenezer Chapael practising music and a meeting for transacting
business in reference to the affairs of the school. Received a letter from Uncle Adam Ferguson
THURSDAY 24
Spent my spare time after stock feeding in making and completing a croquet board 3½ ft by 8 ft of ½ inch
basswood lumber and covered with water proof cloth using brass wire for hoops. At Brampton tonight,
making preparations for acting as Santa Claus tonight. Miss H Modeland came up for to spend
Christmas.
December FRIDAY 25 1874
Merry, merry Christmas, sacred and time honored holiday art thou. My sisters and I took dinner at
"Willow Lodge" with J C Snell and family. In the evening Viney, K F Snell and I went with a large sleigh-
load of young folks from Brampton up to the residence of Mr John McGregor in Caledon and had a nice
quiet party until the "wee sma" hour had long past.
SATURDAY 26
Arrived home at 6 oclock this morning, pretty sleepy but went right to work for the day, at hauling
cordwood from the lower woods. Drove Miss H Modeland home this evening (to Brampton). Father got
home from Oshawa tonight. Bought a new buggy whip @ $1.00 from K.C.& Co. Yesterday we had a
game on the new croquet board.
December SUNDAY 27 1874
At S. School this morning. Supt pres, Sec pres, lesson, A Review of the past quarter's lessons.
Golden text, Mark XVI last two verses, also a partial review of the past-year's lessons. Heard Rev J W
Bell preach in Brampton tonight, - text I Corinthians X 31st verse. The sermon was about the sin of
dancing, and was practical and pointed.
MONDAY 28
Working in the barn all forenoon, getting ready for straw-cutting tomorrow. The nomination of councillors
for Chinguacousy took place today at Edmonton. Spent evening at the Lodge two young men were
initiated Mother and Elsie came home tonight from Oakville. A regular thaw, snow nearly all gone.
December TUESDAY 29 1874
Took a drive before daylight up to Zion church with a load of cedar boughs for decoration. Guy Bell with
his straw cutter this forenoon cut for us two loads of rye and oat sheaves and some straw. Spent
afternoon in helping to trim the churches for the party. We had practice again tonight, a final rehearsal
of the songs.
WEDNESDAY 30
A frosty morning and a cold west wind. Went to Edmonton and attended a committee meeting for
arrangements regarding the approaching parliamentary election. Spent evening at our S.S. Anniversary
everything passed off quietly and pleasantly. Revs Croll and Bell & R Smith M.P. were speakers, J R
Craig acted as chairman, we realized $25.00 about
December THURSDAY 31 1874
The last day of the year, a very suitable time for thought and review of the deeds and actions and whether
the time has been wisely improved or otherwise. Valuable lessons can be learned by a careful
retrospect of 1874. It should also prove an incentive to strive to correct some of the mistakes in this
year's operations in the plans and calculations for next year's work. Rev J W Bell staid here all last night
and this forenoon he is full of life and conversation. This afternoon was spent in putting the churches in
order after the party. Spent evening in Brampton doing some business in the stores. The weather was
moderate, very little snow, but splendid wheeling on the roads. Mailed a letter to Uncle Adam Ferguson,
Bay City, Michigan
Memoranda
Ring out the old, ring in the new Ring happy bells across the snow, The year is going let him go; Ring
out the false ring in the true.
As the clock is on the strike of twelve at the close of the year, I am ringing our bell lively, to hail the birth
of the New Year 1875
Memoranda
Full knee-deep lies the winter snow,
And the winter winds are wearily sighing,
Toll ye the church bell sad and slow,
And tread softly and speak low, For the old year lies a-dying.
Old year, you must not die:
You came to us so readily.
You lived with us so steadily.
Old year, you shall not die.
---------------------------
His face is growing sharp and thin,
Alack! our friend is gone.
Close up his eyes: tie up his chin:
Step from the corpse, and let him in
That standeth there alone,
And waiteth at the door.
There's a new foot on the floor, my friend,
And a new face at the door, my friend,
A new face at the door.
Alfred Tennyson
CASH ACCOUNT, JANUARY
Received Paid
$ ₵ $ ₵
14 For Peel
Banner
1 00
7th Subscription for
"Country
2 00
Gentlemen" in
1874
9th From H
Hawkins for
Berkshires
10 00
" For 292 lbs of
beef @ 5¢
14 60
" For Aide @
5½¢
3 52
" To T Milner for
tea & groceries
4 00
" To K. C. & Co.
on account
9 00
15 From Mrs
Truman for 5
cords of wood
18 75
17 From
Pendleton for a
cord hard wood
3 50
19 From
Pendleton for 2
cords wood
7
___
00
___ ___ ___
$57 37 16
CASH ACCOUNT, JANUARY.
Received. Paid.
$ ₵ $ ₵
24th For Sundries 5 00
31st For
Quarterage
and other
articles
5 00
" Various
Expenses
10 00
20 00
Brought over 57 37 16
___
00
___
36.00
Balance in
favor
$21 37
23rd Gristed 12
bush
Treadwell
wheat
" 11 bush oats
and peas
chopped
CASH ACCOUNT, FEBRUARY
Received. Paid.
$ ₵ $ ₵
2 For J G
Scott's
present
1 00
4th To W
Baldock for
pair of W
Brahams
1 00
3rd Expenses
attending the
wedding
party
5 00
14th To W A
Mitchell for
repairs on my
watch
1 00
" To do for sett
of studs and
cuff buttons
(pearl)
1 00
17 For rent
(annual) of
Church pew
2 50
19 From K C &
Co for 21½
bush wheat
25 80
" Sundries 1 00
23 Mailed to
Viney
2 00
24 For cedar
posts
2
___
80
___
25 80 17 30
CASH ACCOUNT, FEBRUARY.
Received. Paid
$ ₵ $ ₵
27 Trip to Oakville
and expenses
including Dr.
Sutherland bill
6 00
28 Sundry articles
for home use
and
consumption
6
___
00
___
12 00
17
___
30
___
25 80 29 30
CASH ACCOUNT, MARCH.
Received. Paid.
$ ₵ $ ₵
6 1 From Dr
Johnson
1 50
6 For clothing and
a brass ruler
2 75
15 To
Superannuated
Minister's Fund
1 00
16 From K C & Co
for 45 bush S
Wheat @ $1.12
51 00
" For barrel of salt 1 50
" To Savage on
Iron Harrows
15 00
24 To Dr Patullo on
acc/
8 75
" For sundry
articles
5 00
" " 5 lbs butter 1 50
And Eggs 90
CASH ACCOUNT, MARCH.
Received. Paid.
$ ₵ $ ₵
28 For 6 lbs of
butter @ 30¢
1 80
" To K.C. & Co. 60
lbs of clover
seed
6 00
" " " 6 bush
barley
7 70
________ ___ ____ ____
$56 70 48 70
10 Chopped at
Main's Mill. 25
bush of peas &
oats also 1½
bush wheat
cracked for mush
CASH ACCOUNT, APRIL.
Received. Paid.
$ ₵ $ ₵
1st 7 lb butter @
30¢ per lb
2 10
" Dry Goods
and Sundries
5 00
3 For pine
lumber
3 20
8 To R Quin for
fixing iron
plow
4 00
9 From J Smith
for beef cow
36 50
" To K.C. & Co
for Sundries
6 00
14 To R Noble for
lumber
2 15
15 For seed
spring wheat 8
bush
9 75
16 From J C
Snell
35 00
21 For Hardware
and sundries
2 00
29 To Jos
Williams
7 00
CASH ACCOUNT, APRIL.
Received. Paid.
$ ₵ $ ₵
22 To Dr
Hoddard of
Toronto for
Viney &
expenses
10 00
30 For
blankets
and
sundries
10 00
" To J
Coyne. for
two pairs
of boots
10 25
29th From C. V.
R. R. Co
for land &
labor
56 76
" To C. P. A.
S. for
Annual
Ticket
1 00
___ ___ ___ ___
Total - 150 36 66 35
14 Gristed at
Norval
Mills 12
bush
Treadwell
wheat
and peas
23 Chopped
at Main's
10 bush oats
CASH ACCOUNT, MAY.
Received. Paid.
$ ₵ $ ₵
2nd From Arthur
Norris for 1
bush Orchard
grass seed
2 50
" To Quarterly
Board
3 00
7 " W Cation for
4 bush Early
3 00
peas
9 From C. P. A.
S. for 3rd prize
on "Oliver
Twist"
4 00
11 for sundries 3 00
14 For 6 bush
"Early Rose"
4 50
" " Butter &
eggs
2 25
" " "Hungarian"
& sundries
4 00
18 To Viney at
Oshawa
5 00
23 From T
Crawforth for
two 2 yr old
steers
70 00
" To Wilkinson
for hat and
pants
7 75
" To K C & Co for 2 62½
vest
CASH ACCOUNT, MAY.
Received. Paid.
20 Sold to a Caledonian
1/2 bush orchard
grasseed
1 50
25 Expenses to Good
Templar's Concert
1 00
28 For Dry Goods 5 00
___ ___ ___ ___
Total -- 84 75 34 37
2 Sowed 30 bush oats
4 " 20 " Spring
Wheat
7 " 16 " barley
12 " 24 " peas
18 " 6 " "
CASH ACCOUNT, JUNE.
Received. Paid.
$ ₵ $ ₵
3rd To K. C. & Co
on acc/
32 00
" From
"Merchants"
bank per
interest on
deposit
11 50
9th To K C & Co
for turnip
seed & buck
wheat
6 00
8 From J
Learment on
old debt
4 00
13 To T Milner
for 1/2 bus
50
buckwheat
" Sundries 75
17 From K. C. &
Co for 11
bush wheat
@ $1.15.
11 75
" For Comic
readings 30c
& Sundries
3 00
___ ___ ___ ___
27 25 42 25
CASH ACCOUNT, JUNE.
Received. Paid.
$ ₵ $ ₵
20 From T
Milner for
246 lbs wool
@ 40¢
98 40
26 To K. C. &
Co for
sundries
5 00
___ ___ ___ ___
Total 125 65 47 25
9th Gristed at J.
W. Mains 11
bush
Treadwell
and chopped
7 bush peas
CASH ACCOUNT, JULY.
Received. Paid.
$ ₵ $ ₵
1st To J Williams 2 00
" Expenses of
the day in
Brampton
1 00
2 From J
Woodhall
1 50
7 To Jos
Williams
5 00
14 From D.
White for two
sheep
8 00
18 Harvest tools
and other
articles
5 00
20 To R Quin for
laying and
pointing plow
1 00
shares
24 To Milner for
groceries &c
&c
3 00
___ ___ ___ ___
9 50 17 00
CASH ACCOUNT, JULY.
{No entries on this page}
CASH ACCOUNT, AUGUST.
Received. Paid.
$ ₵ $ ₵
5 To J. Williams
final
settlement for
4 months
work
5 25
" At Barnum's
show &c &c
2 00
12 To R Rogers
for 3 dy's
work
3 50
19 Groceries and
incidental
expenses
8 00
26 To K. C. & Co
for groceries
10 00
27 From T
Crawforth for
a calf
3 50
___ ___ ___ ___
3 50 28 75
CASH ACCOUNT, AUGUST.
{No Entries on this page}
CASH ACCOUNT, SEPTEMBER.
Received. Paid.
$ ₵ $ ₵
10 Sundry articles 5 00
15 To W D Hunter for
subscription on
"Derry West" Hall
of Temperance
1 00
19 To R H Hodgson
for one bottle of
"Vinegar Bitters" a
tonic.
1 00
14 From Mr Benjamin
Watson
on " Oliver
Twist's acc/
11 00
23 Expenses of three
persons to the
Toronto Fair
7 00
28 From A Franks for
lamb
18 00
___ ___ ___ ___
29 00 14 00
CASH ACCOUNT, SEPTEMBER.
Received. Paid.
$ ₵ $ ₵
5th Gristed at
Main's 11
bush
Treadwell & 9
bush peas for
chopping
CASH ACCOUNT, OCTOBER.
Received. Paid.
$ ₵ $ ₵
5th From B.
Watson for a
lamb
15 00
7 For lambs and
cattle money
56 00
" " Balance
on Iron
Harrows
15 00
" To Ambrose &
Bannister for
Music
1 00
9 From Toppin
for lamb
15 00
10 From Preston
" "
15 00
12 Dry Goods
and Shoe Bill
at Coyne's
40 00
14 Expenses to
Brantford
6 00
16 Paid W
Campbell's
blacksmith bill
11 00
" For 112 busk
barley at .91
101 92
" " K C & Co's
Store bill and
dry Goods
70 00
CASH ACCOUNT, OCTOBER.
Received. Paid.
$ ₵ $ ₵
19 Fixing plow 3 00
" Cheese @ 12½¢ 2 75
20 A new pump 10 00
21 From different
parties cattle
money
10 00
23 Fancy Good &
Bell Cash
13 00
24 For lambs and
cattle money
13 00
" Prize money 2 00
" Dry Goods &c. &c. 4 00
" " " 3 00
27 From P Chisholm 13 50
29 For public taxes 37 97
31 From Mr Ben
Booth for cattle
money
1 50
___ ___ ___ ___
Total 242 92 216 72
CASH ACCOUNT, NOVEMBER.
Received. Paid.
$ ₵ $ ₵
2nd From Mr Fraser of
Esquesing for a
lamb
8 00
4th From Alex Scott
balance on lamb
8 00
" To A Rossiter for
threshing grain
10 50
6 From Mr Bustle for
lamb
14 00
" For dry goods and
shoes &c. &c.
12.00
7 From Saml Huxby
for 3 sheep
22 00
13 From N McCallum
for two fat sheep
7
" From T Crawforth 6
for lamb
14 " K. C. & Co
for barley
56 75
___ ___ ___ ___
$121 75 22 50
CASH ACCOUNT, NOVEMBER.
Received. Paid.
$ ₵ $ ₵
25th Gristed at Main's
Mill 13 bush of
wheat
134 From K. C. & Co.
due bill for ducks
20 and poultry & eggs 10 00
" To K. C. & Co for
119 lbs of pork @
$7.00
8 33
21 From Mr Marshall 20 00
for "Billy" sheep
23 From Mr Davis on
cattle acc/
4 00
25 To K. C. & Co. for
179 lbs of pork @
7¢
12 50
" For potatoes 1 80
___ ___ ___ ___
35 80 20 83
121 75 22 50
___ ___ ___ ___
157 55 43 33
CASH ACCOUNT, DECEMBER.
Received. Paid
.
$ ₵ $ ₵
1st From J Campbell for 2 cords
of wood
4 00
" To Peaker for saw 5 50
" Sundries 2 00
2 To K. C. & Co. for suit of
tweed
20 00
3rd From two parties for cattle
money
4 50
5 To Joshua Modeland for
"Momentum"
74 00
12 For in exchange on pork
and &c. &c.
3 00
" For "Christian Guardien" for
1875
2 00
14 From J C Snell for
Berkshires
70 00
19 For quarter of beef and
sundries
6 00
___ ___ ___ ___
CASH ACCOUNT, DECEMBER.
Received. Paid.
$ ₵ $ ₵
19 From T Crawforth for
"Oliver Twist"
63 00
24 Sundry Articles 5 00
25 Christmas expenses of
various kinds
10 00
31st For dry goods and sundry
articles
5 00
___ ___ ___ ___
Total 144 50 129 50
12th Chopped at Main's 14 bush
of oats & peas
SUMMARY OF CASH ACCOUNT.
Received. Paid.
Jan. $ 57 37 36 00
Feb. 25 80 29 30
Mar. 56 70 48 70
April. 150 36 66 35
May. 84 75 34 37
June. 125 65 47 25
July. 9 50 17 00
Aug. 3 50 28 75
Sept. 29 00 14 00
Oct. 242 92 216 72
Nov. 157 55 43 33
Dec. 144 50 129 50
___ ___ ___ ___
Total Paid -- - 711 27
Total
Received
1087 60
Balance 376 33
BILLS PAYABLE---JANUARY.
{No entries on this page}
BILLS PAYABLE---APRIL.
{No entries on this page}
BILLS PAYABLE---MAY.
Amt.
$ ₵
20th On or before 1st January
next for a bell to the Agent
10 00
RECEIVABLE.
Oct 23 Sent by mail (registered) to
L Jones & Co of Markham
for bell
10 00
BILLS PAYABLE---AUGUST.
{No entries on this page}
BILLS PAYABLE---SEPTEMBER.
Amt.
$ ₵
To be paid at Brampton Fair
to Savage balance on Iron
Harrows
15 00
RECEIVABLE.
Oct 7 Paid the above 15 00
BILLS PAYABLE---OCTOBER
Amt.
$ ₵
12 00
RECEIVABLE.
No entries
BILLS PAYABLE---NOVEMBER.
{No entries on this page}
BILLS PAYABLE---DECEMBER.
Amt.
$ ₵
5th At K Chisholm & Co for an
overcoat to be paid within
three months from date
18 00
RECEIVABLE.
17th Drew from Merchant's Bank
the 6 month's interest due on
deposit
10 62½
" Deposited in Bank making the
sum of total deposit bearing 5
per cent interest per annum
500 00
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