Text
Minetta “Nettie” Walton (1869-1950)
1883 Part 1
Transcribed by Rural Diary Archive volunteers
{front cover }
Steam Power Lawn Mower E.C. Stearns & Co Syracuse NY model no 181A - ST.
R 1/2
10
my birthday
June 14 - 1883
{Fred?}
Aug 17 - 1883
(1)
June 14 th/83
My birthday a very fine day & not a cloud to be had in the sky Sarah and I cleaned the
cellar milkroom. Two Marias washed
Mrs Johnson helped them Presents I got were as
follows. Maria gave me 25 cts Annie a cream lace collar Ma a back hair comb. but first I
got a letter from Ernest with a beatiful card in it. Sarah & I went to Bronte after tea I
bought this book in Geo. McCranly Theodar and Joe went fishing Mercy went home this
morning she had little Liddie or Rosie with her she just looks like Mercy Bates. Wallice &
Watson here building boat. June 8th Little Arthur
Pickard was buried from being drowned. Annie Sarah Edith Ingleden, Mr. Johnson & I sang
in the choir & I broke down.
June 10th.. I got pair of new shoes from Oakville. A pair of corsets also from Toronto.
Alfred Alton & Ernest were here for tea Sunday 11th.. June we had lots of company all last
week.
1
June 13 Sarah and I went down to Churchill for bitters for Mercy to take home. Zillah and I
have got a {place?} where we put our letter that we when that is when we do not see each
other very often we have a language which we made our selves in school. Mr. Davidson
teacher. June {15th}.. Charlie McCauleys birthday. I sent a letter to Ernest to day.
Painting the boat they are. Ella McKay and her mother was up this afternoon brought two
jars of potatoes tomatoes. The boys are whitewashing the young orchard to day. E M
past master on the roads. S. A. M. M. are all away Ella McCauley is working at Williams.
June 16th.. Saturday Sarah & I were picking green strawberries in morning. Maria, Watson
went to Hamilton on 2 train on which Mr Wight came up on. Ada Bray here also
Pa was down fishing cought about 15 heron all day.
Saturday 16th Twelve O'clock before I went to bed 15th 10 O'clock 14 twelve O'clock.
June 18th.. Monday raining S. J.S. and I cleaned out the cellar. George Wight here yet.
Maria came back from Hamilton they anticipate to launch the boat Saturday next.
Sunday 17th fine day but a cold fog off of the lake. Ernest came took and Annie & I for a
drive to Oakville. I had a splendid time we were singing & ect. Monday 18 George White
said it took all the bliss from a kiss
if any one seen you. Maggie McCauley here with Miss Sarah Bouncell from Oakville also.
Wallice said that he'd baptize me in the name of the father and of the cedar posts. Ernest
received he is photo from Hamilton with all the college students on it. Poor Ernest. when
he was getting out of the buggie to open the gates I triped him and he fell and skinned his
shin. Tuesday 18th.. June. Washing Mandia Hixson drove here Mrs Wright and Mr Bray all
at once. Maria L. & G. Wright went over to Hixsons in the afternoon. I received a letter
from Zillah
G.W. said if you told any lies at night that you would have to tell them over again in the
morning. he has ten little girls named Alice, Georgina, Victoria. Mary Elizabeth Annie Mary
says when she comes to breakfast Ever lassie has a laddie but none they say have I. G.W.
19th when home to day. Mr Curtis is as tight as the bark on a tree. {rest of page illegible}
2
June 21st/83 I went to Bronte in Morning seen the boat came back and painted the barn
gate Ella McKay came and took Maria L down to see Miss Smith. Maria & Ida went over to
Jacksons to get him to come plaster dining room. Theodore went to Greens. E M went to
Oakville all on Thursday
21st We got some strawberries to day Thursday 21st Wallice said with the greatest
compasity I will. It will all come out in the Washing. William Lucas here for tea 21st.
Friday 22 June/83 us four girls went
over to Williams about seven. Edith Ingleden and Lizzie Carpenter were there also we had
a kind of a tea in about 10 O'clock at night. came home about twelve E.W. came to bridge
we met Jack Mc. Maggie Joyce & Emma going home from the Ice cream party at Jane
Hinton's
Saturday 23rd Jackson came after we had all the cleaning done to plaster he was here
about 1 hr. All the folks ate there supper out in the yard we had strawberries for tea. Ma
& I were picking when E.W. went by on horse back.
Sunday 24th Ma & pa went up to Plannoe Church. We were out in the strawberrie field
when Mrs. & Mr Williams went
home. Ernest told me that he was over to our corner in morning he said Joe promised to
go for a swim but he did not, {so} he went home & light a fire put on some water & he got
in the tub. We all went to Sunday School, Annie Broderick Ella McCauley and Ida & I went
to see the boat so we seen Misses Sanderson from Toronto at Mrs Pages Annie asked me
if I would go for a drive with Arthur at night so I went with Ida & him we went up to
{Powerls?} up the shore, came back again. when we were going up we seen Curtise's were
all out in the varendia Ernest drove the girls home from Sunday School & we made
3
horse fly going past we seen Trillers out on bank we seen Grant & his father out rowing
coming back Mr Eckerson waved his hat at us we drove around Bronte and then came
home Mack and Ernest were here Ernest said that we went so fast the wheels only
touched every 10 fence corners. When they were going away I {circle} {tree-like image}
{semi-circle} {semi-circle} {asterisk} {asterisk} {asterisk} {tall plus sign}. {asterisk}
{asterisk} {asterisk} {scribble} {semi-circle} {asterisk} {asterisk} {semi-circle} {triangle}.
once & he " " " " " " {these appear to be ditto marks under the drawings} me. {triangle} w
{tree-like image} {house image} {asterisk} {asterisk} Mack did also I enjoy my drive &
there stay very much I had a very nice time indeed.
Monday 25th.. raining washed. I dreamyed Sunday night that Ernest had the hooping
cough in our parlor & he was going to die. But I dreamy it Saturday
night that Grant Sarah and I all slept together but I got out & let Sarah sleep with him for I
crowded them two much.
Monday 25 Mr Williams here in the afternoon on horseback.
Tuesday Maria & Sarah went to Oakville got back two O'clock broke one wheel. Ida & I
went over to Joyces after the paper for dining room. Maria Ida papering Wednesday We
picked berries Ernest & his cousin over on the bank shooting when we were picking. His
cousin came tuesday they were picking so they had not time to go & meet him so he went
to sleep up at the station and had to
walk after all.
Thursday 28 Joe Wilds birthday farewell a lot of folks from Hamilton & Toronto Jennie up
with Jessie Scott. I cleaned the hen house out to day white washed it inside. Sarah went
up to station to meet Watson he went to Toronto this morning and she seen all the folks.
Joe got a letter from Henery yesterday he is over to the falls. The bees swarmed to day
28. painting wood work. Mrs Foster here this afternoon. Girls & E M. went over to
Hixsons in evening. Emma, Mabel & Gordon came down. 28.
Friday 29th.. Cleaned the sitting room picked berries
4
in the afternoon. Had Daniel Bray for dinner. Expect to Lauch boat to morrow Saturday.
29th.. {written over 28th with a different pen}. Maxwell down in evening on horse back
Theordore & I put his horse in the barn yard. Ma & Emma went to Oakville to day for some
lard for the boat launch.
Saturday picking berries all day till three O'clock. Issaic Mc & Jennie came down on twelve
train went back on Seven Jennie took Sarah & Annie with her back home. Adarenia came
on two O'clock train we all went down to the boat launch E.W. & his cousin were there.
Will Spears was the first on
it after in the water we all got on it. Will said if he own it he would call it (Nettie). Mabel
broke the bottle & christened it Blandina. Sarah Walton came up on the seven from
Toronto.
Sunday Teordore has gone down to Green's this morning Sunday Fine day.
Sunday 1st July I went to Sunday School Ernest & Mr Lucas here at night Mr Lucas from
Montreal.
Monday 2nd Picking berries Ant Eliza. Eliza Smith & Henery came on morning train went
back at night. I picked 76 qts E.W. Mr Lucas. & Alfred Alton here I have got silk
hankerchief of
Alfred. Annie & Sarah came back on 5.25 train from Hamilton Annie got some gems taken
she gave one to E.W. We had a very nice time they stayed till Eleven O'clock. All Toronto
folks went home.
Tuesday picking Emma Mabel & Gordon went home.
Wednesday 4th July picking washing Bill Morrow hoeing Cow calved. I went to bed at 7
O'clock.
Thursday July 5th.. Had Mr Wild over brought Ida a letter for Jennie wanted some
waxing salve. Sarah went over in Afternoon to Hixons for baskets.
5
Friday. Picking rained every day last week
Saturday 7th.. 83.
Davidson at Shanty Shipped twelve crates at noon E.M. came back from Station took
luggage down to Boat (Blandina) she went to Oakville for some things on Dock Jim W.G. /
E.M. brought Davidson back from boat. Alexandria McDonald came up for there dinner
Wallise & W.G. for they had not time I took down some berries & tea I was on Board while
they were eating there dinner. I got to pine trees when Joe E.M S.B. & Annie were in Wagon
coming to see the boat go out It rained when we got home from Bronte * Tramp for dinner.
Sunday 8th.. I did not go to Sunday School
for I had a sore knee ever since Tuesdays picking I had three boils & was kind of lame
anyway I had rash on my arms & limbs. I keept house that day Bees swarmed when Ma
& Sam were going to church 2 hr 30 min. Ida stayed church. Ida Scratch down from
Milton to Broderick's J. C. E. Mc. S.C. there. Us four girls were all going over to Brodericks
after tea, but only got as far as barn gate when we met E.W. M Lucas E.W. playing Flute & M.
L. mouth Organ. They came in we had some charming music with the Instruments. E.W.
gave me a piece of Marbel with my name on one
side & his on the other. He carved it him self he also did one for Melville. We got a photo
of M Lucas & we (Annie Sarah & I) gave him our gems he also gave us all his cards with
name on. had a very good time. He showed us his girls picture very good looking.
Monday 9th.83 picking. I packing. all day {quotation marks under picking} " " Had Jane B
Mrs B. Miss English & Ella Mc. here right after dinner had Mrs Page. Sam Mc. wife Agnes
Gilliam & lot else after berries. I pick goose berries down Orchard Lizzie Mc came running
up told me to tell Mrs Will Gilliam that here Mothers-in-law was
6
dying she went home from picking white as sheet. Villa had her Mr Rymal out Sunday.
Will Lucas here tonight. packing berries after dark.
Tuesday 10th.. July I went over to Brays for butter Brays just got home from Oakville. I
was milking cows & putting them across the road when Mac & Grant came up on
horseback. Mack helped me carry milk pail to house from barn. Grant & I got friends we
had very good time. G.E. & I telling riddles us all in Grape{ng} Grant & I walking around
the farm. They stayed till
11 O'clock.
Wednesday 11th..83 picking Sarah Jarvis & her mother came in morning. Ida got a card
from Laura stating that she would be at Bronte Station & for us to meet her, so Ida & I went
over to Jennies to get her when we got there she was just taking Mandia up for 5.20 train to
get to Toronto. We went but (L) never came we rode back with Jennie over to her place
then she drove us down to Bronte we came back to corner got out here pack berries
before we got our supper. (G.E.) up
to station for his pa. I talked with him. Annie & I went over to Mrs Johnsons to get her to
wash for us we also went to Joyces.
Thursday 12th.. Orangemens day (Wednesday Mrs Gilliam was buried.
Friday 13th.. July 83 picking berries Jennie came through our place going to Bronte with
her dress to Maggie McCauley for to get made for picknic wednesday Toronto. I went
to Bronte bed at 8 oclock Maggie Jane Sewing here. Mrs. Bray Jane & Mack Curtis here
that night. Maria Lovekin & Jane went to practice at church.
Saturday picking all day extracting
7
honey from bees in P.M. I had to Clean my stoop after that Jennie & Mrs. Hix. son came
for Ida & I to go home with them to stay all night for her & Johonsa & her were going to
Burlington in P.M. so Sarah finished my work so we went Jennie took her grandma home
first then came back for us. We had our tea over there & we played on piano read a novel
out to Josh (Forrest house) then we tried the {ring} machine to see which could go the
highest at our longs Josh went up to 230. Jennie 125 Ida 120 Nettie 115 I could have went
higher but I was not prepared for it.
Sunday 15th.. 83.
Rain woke us up about 6 am we did not get asleep till 12 P.M. It rained till P.M. We tore
around I went down stairs to see what time it was it was 6 A.M. So we talked and played
we got the bed on the floor & pretended that we were asleep when Mrs Hixson came & told
us to get up. We had curley upstairs & we were playing with him We got the dished done
then we did the house work then we sang we read novel to Josh till near dinner time
then we ate butter nuts had our dinner we read Jennie & I till three oclock when it cleared
up then we got redy with Jennie & Josh & they drove
us to our gate they went on to Burlington. it was 15 min to 4 oclock the bees got
swarming church was out so Ida & I watched them till E.M. came with Jed Belyea & he stay
90 min we gave him some honey. E. M. got stung they were awful cross one flew in my
had & Isac Belyea pulled it out. Just when we got tea over who comes along but Ernest
with horse & buggy so Annie & I went up to Applby Church we were late for church but we
went away up to front church A dutchman who preached about clean hands when we
got up to sing Harris Bumby gave up a hymn book for to sing so when we got done singing
Annie
8
& Ernest had hold of the book & they both let go & it fell flat on the floor it made such a
noise. After church we went up to see Melville Lucas staying at William Lucas we got out
of the buggy and went it Dud Alton Jane Stewart her brother & {us} were there we got an
introduction to them all Clara & Annie Lucas are the girls Walter & Jacob are the two big
Brothers. Dud played we all sang Melville played flute & Ernest mouth organ. We had a
very nice time indeed when we were going up to church we met Sarah Blanchard & Will
Cline on twelve hill. We saw Alfred.
& Bumby girls. I had a {symbols - heart drawing 2 other symbols} from ***. W. that night.
Monday 16 I seen grant going to Station. Jennie was down to Bronte came through our
place. Laura came on twelve train from London. E.M. seen her. Alas Garneau down
stayed at Johnstons. She & Ada were up for tea. Ida & I went down to Bronte with them.
Seen G.O. at Post O. Meet Ella Mckay & Mother on street we were in Store quite a while
came home temperance meetings was out and nearly every light out.
Tuesday 17th July 83. picking berries in morning washing I went after washwoman in the
morning before breakfast. I was
hoeing in afternoon. We have Andrew July Carpenter & Will Morrow hoeing today. Agnes
Polic & Joe & Byron Dorland were talking & laughing so I went over to to road & hid to hear
what was going on but found nothing. Annie & Sarah went to Prayer meeting to day night.
George Williams over after grist. We Expected Ruth down to day but did not come.
Wednesday 18th..July. 83. Big Maria, Annie, Sarah, Ida & I picked a crate of berries between
us & we are to have the money from it. Jennie went down to McCauleys for her dress she
came through our place & showed it to us. it was
very nice. Ma went to Hamilton on 2 train. Grant was down seeing Adams yesterday We
seen him. Will Spears went from the station & he threw a kiss. Grant waved his hand &
Jennie Nodded. I went over to Fosters before dinner we have Will Jackson Will Morrow &
Andrew Carpenter hoeing. The two Maria's were sewing at our dresses. Ida went over to
9
see Jane Bray about sewing our dresses so she is coming this after noon. I was decorating
the parlor with cedar & I swept it. Annie & Sarah went to tell the pickers to come this
morning for to pick a crate then they could have the
patch to them selves (Go west & tramp grass hoppers young man.) (Its all serene) (Its all
of a notion) (Habits are like cords of steal Binding us from woe to weal). ( Im your mind.)
(Use your own mental manufacts.)
Friday 20 Thursday 19th.. 83. We had the pickers for last time for picking strawberries
they & us got two crates. Mr Joe. Long came along & took them up to the station for us.
Jane Bray here sewing in afternoon Ada came in the evening. Sarah, Annie &
Ada where all went to Bronte they seen Ernest come around McCraneys corner when they
were looking at the circus bills on the fence. They also seen Mack with Lil in
buggie with his uncle Will. I had a bath in the tub. Wednesday 19th.. July last 83. Sarah
Jarvis down & her mother. And Jim Jarvis, his servant, & son were down on the following
Friday 13th.. 83.
Friday 20th.. 83
not picking anything Jane Bray & Maria L went down to practice Jane
finished our dresses, & brought them over with her & Ada came along. Ella McCauley came
up for a boquet for the girls to go to Hamilton they went Saturday morning. Annie & Sarah
and Ada all went to Bronte. Saturday. I picked some Cherries for one or two pies. Got
nearly through by dinner time for Ma went to Hamilton on Thursday 19 July.
& came back Saturday on 12 train. I was cleaning windows when she came so she put us in
the notion of going to see Jumbo. So I did not eat any dinner for I was not hungry. E. M.
said he thought that two would be enough to go so I thought that that would be Annie &
Sarah. So I came upstairs made my bed & wept because I thought that I could not go.
Maria came up & wanted me to eat my dinner but would not. I went down & picked 5
basket of strawberries & 2 black caps for to take up to Watson Annie Maria W. Ma & I
picked them so we took them up 24 baskets. Annie Sarah & I we all whent up on
10
the 7 train. E.M. drove up us to the depot on the Strawberrie wagon Annie drove. After we
left Hamilton depot we left the basket of berries at depot & when we got away up Cannon
Street we met Sarah & Wallice coming down to meet us. So we went in there place and
she took us down in kitchen and gave us some things to eat for I did not eat any Supper
either before going. I only had a drink of water & a {fruit} {foisk?} biscuit at Sarah place.
Then we went on up to Watsons they came up with us. Jennie all alone with Gordon
putting him to bed we talked theyn Mr. Mc. came so we girls
went down town shopping. We went to Campbells & Penticost where Jennies fellow is a
clerk. we all got an introduction to him we bought gloves and pair stockings in there. we
then went down to Patt & Watckins bought ribbon, lace etc. It Thundered & lightened
terrible. we ran all the way till we got home & we no more than got nicely in the house
when it rained. We sit up & Sewed lace on sleeves. Sunday 22th..83 July. I way rather
hungry & I ate some porridge & drank two cups of tea then some water so I turner sick
to my stomack So when Annie & Sarah were getting ready I through up my breakfast, so I
could not got to church. We did not go to Sunday School. but we when down to see boat
in afternoon Mc and us girls. we went oven emigrent way I nearly got in. they were lots of
people waiting to see Jumbo come in on train at the bridges We went back Sarah Mable
& I all went to get a drink in dairy but could not get in. I went to Kings thinking that I could
maybe get a drink but they were away out. So went home tired & exhausted. We then
after
tea all went to Sentenary church we went & Stayed down to Wallices that night Sunday
and stayed all night. Monday 23rd 83 July we got up Miss Wilkinson there. Annie & I
slept to gether. after breakfast we went down Street to see procession which was
extraordinary. We first were in P.& Watkins came across st. seen A. Bray, J.B., D.B., & S.B.
M.W. T.W. & E.M. W. on st. they all drove up in morning. We went to show after procession.
It rained when we were on the st. waiting for the procession to come & we were all standing
in side of a store door when up came Alfred
11
Alton & his brother. We walked away up to the grounds & were we all tired & Jennie lost
her ear-ring so we all went away back to a grocery store. E.M. & Dan told woman to get
some tea made. bought pound of cheese ½ lbs of butter 2 loafs of bread. 1 can of
Sardeens & 1 can of cand peaches. some biscuit, some eggs. etc. had a very good dinner
instead of walking away down town. There was a fearful crowd when we got back again
had to wait ½ hr. for E.M. to get our tickets. Before we went in the tent we seen as follows
Lizzie Carpenter, Sarah, Dorland. Will Husband. Ben Dorland &
Susie his daughter. A Whight, from middle road. Mr Coats from burlington. Will Morrow &
our Joe in the side show & Johnstons family. Then after were we going in to circus we
seen Will Colton & his wife Georgina Mc. Maggie Colton & Jack Hinton. Theodore Brameld
from Greens at Oakville. Will Spears, Lucy, Jane Charlotte & George Bumby. Laura Jones &
Minnie Sherdian from Planoe. Edith Thompsons Olive Mr Thompson & Ida Triller. drove in
town. Archie Spears & his brother Agnes Polic, Walter Dorland & Jack Mc.. were drunk. On
the train we seen Mar(illegible)
Shaw & Andrew Carpenter. We got in the same car as Bumbys Carpenters Laura, Minnie
etc. When we got to Burlington Bob Osburn Bill Skeliton got a fighting with the conductor
& brakesman they put them of the train & they smashed a lamp and window. James & Mr
Mc came down to the train with us. When we got of at Bronte Ernest was there to meet us
but we had to walk so E.W. Sarah & I all walked together & Annie & Will Spears. Had a very
nice time indeed I went to tie the dog & Ernest came over and we had a word then we
parted with a hand shake.{symbols}:::YEooo.
Monday Tues 24..th 83. we picked black currants & black currents. Wednesday 25th.. 83.
picking had Ella Mckay for tea after night. Us girls coaksing for to go picking raspberries,
in the morning. Annie & Sarah went down to prayer meeting. Ernest is going to Chicago in
about four or five weeks. We had Mr & Mrs Ferguson for dinner Mr took Freddie up to
hamilton to let him go to London so Mrs Ferguson stayed at our place till train time then
12
E.M had some berries to take up so he fetched him back with him. Thursday 26..th 83 Mrs
Ed Lucas & her children Laura
Jones came down from Planmo {Planoe} They were here for tea Artie & Lilly sang for us.
Friday 27..th 83 Mrs Buck & Edith Ingledew over helping us pick black currants. It came on
a terrible rain blew so they did not go until 8 O'clock.
Saturday picking until noon then we had to do all our work after that. Ella McKay & her
mother came in the afternoon they came after vinegar ma gave them some reddishes &
some honey. So Ella fetched a pair of black kid gloves for ma to pick goose berries in & two
loafs of bread. I was working at my print rapper friday &
Saturday tried to finish it Saturday I was working the button holes. I did not get washed
untill dark. Mandia Hixson & her mother came when I was waiting for Sarah to put buttons
on it. E.M. went to Toronto in morning so they got Joe to hitch the horse for to meet him at
station. So Laura, Ida & Maria Started for to meet him when he was right in the field so
they drove to Bronte from sugar. Mandia just came from Toronto. We had Mary Pickard
washing for us Friday. Sunday 29th.. fine day but windy. Laura & us girls playing in parlor.
We all
went to Sunday School. We stayed for Church. When Laura Ida & I were going to the Lake
for a walk we seen E.W. & M.C. come whith his buggy. Annie & Max went for a drive. E.W.
& I went for a walk & had good talk. E.M. & M.L. went to Mount Pleasant Church.
E.W. says that there is one who he knows is praying for him to leave & that is Grant. E.W. is
going to Chichago for to go into business for himself. He said that Grant told Will Spears
that he was agoing to spark me after E.W. leaves. Mack told Annie that
he made a bargain with E.W. that Mack had to keep E.W. posted about the (Grapery). E.W.
asked me if I would write if he did, & I told him yes if my folks wl would have nothing to say
against it. Monday 30th.. I killed a hen before breakfast but Sunday morning I drowned
two kitten before breakfast. Edith & Mrs Buck here picking blackcurrents finished in the
13
field. they are now picking in garden. Annie Sarah Ida Laura & I went down to Temperance
meeting I went down to get
mail for the girls were not dressed So I came back up to the pine tree. Little Maria met
me there. We all got down to half way to School House when we met John Ingledew & Bob
Joyce so Laura Ida & I went on to the meeting & then went for walk. We were rather to
early but we waited for a time then we went in. There were not many there but it was the
best Temperance meeting that I was ever at in Bronte. When we got to the lane gate we
met the two fellows just coming home. Annie & Sarah were not in bed when we got home.
Mrs
Robinson gave speach. We have got a by work from it. As follows. (Let you that be.) Pa
went down to Oakville with Mr Foster for he was agoing to meet his wife she was very sick.
Tuesday 31th..83. July. I took a dose of salts. We shipped a crate to Mrs Jones London.
Laura put a letter in side of it. Laura & Sarah rode over to the corner of Riggses with him &
he would hardly let Laura of when she wanted to. Laura & Ida went away up to Mrs Douglas
bare headed he would not let them g? at noon.
Monday 30 Ida & I & Laura
took three baskets of Cherries over to the corner on top of the old buggy we all pulled it
over there for our folks were busy with our horses. Mr Carpenter took them up for us.
Tuesday 31th.. Minnie Sherdian came for Laura, to take her home up to Plarmeo. For it is
her & Walters birthdays Thursday 2.
Thursday 2th..August 1883. Tuesday 31th.. Minnie &
Walter Sherdian here after Laura. We playing croquet. first game that we had this
summer. Wednesday Edith & Mrs Ingledew came to pick red currants. I cleaned the path
out & we churned
The two Maria's persevering fruit?
I cleaned windows after noon. When I was finishing the
path, Emily Triller & his pa drove through from Oakville. I was taking up the grass in the
wheel barrow I only had one shoe on. I dress up at night went down to post letter to
Zillah. I met her when I was going & we sat down on a stone had a talk got up went for a
14
walk down past Larkins seen those strange people in there house had a good talk came
home got up to Nelson's corner Ida met me she went a piece with Annie & Sarah &
Edith. Ida told me that Sarah Jarvis & her f brother were here also. Annie & Sarah seen
Ernest on horse back coming back up the hill with Mrs Joyce helping here S up the hill. but
after Monday night our girls feel ashamed of themselves for ever going with the fellows.
We met them at our lane gate going home.
Thursday 2th.. We are washing Mrs Ingledew & Mrs Buck & here little girl here. We had
Will Lucas here tuesday the night Laura went after he came for a feed of honey. He asked
me what would I do when I lost Ernest & I told him that I never knew I had him to
loose. I have got a very bad cough & am not very well any way. Ags 2 th.. We are going to
pick black caps this afternoon for to send to London.
Thursday 2th August. afternoon Annie getting ready to go to Bronte when Arvilla &
Agnetta Curtis came they said they would not stay because we were so busy & that they
would come back again some day. Ella Mckay & her mother about 6 O'clock. Ernest came
before they went away Arthur Broderick here also Joe & Arthur burnt the Bees nest in
the smoke house. After they got through burning it I went in the
house & I layed down on sofa in dinning room & I wondered who that was talking to pa out
on the stoop. The girls said that Ernest was there so I layed for a minute then I wanted to
go upstairs the girls said I was not to change my dress so I went up in the dark pa came
in & said he had gone so I heard some body talking so I got out on the roof & I listened to
him & Annie talking in the lane.
Friday 3th.. August The two Maria's went to Toronto on boat Southern Belle. Annie drove
them. Three Curtises girls went also I Annie got 1 tooth pulled
and one filled. A I & Ma cleaned the wheat meat. I carried it up out of the cellar & we
washed it. I layed down after dinner then Ma call me to go down to take pa some dinner
so I went & I met him by Lem Dorland so I went to Post Office seen Emma, Hixsons girl, &
15
Mr Williams got home Mrs Bray came. Max went to meet the girls & our girls at Oakville
Grant went with him. Saturday 4th.. picking berries sent a ½ crate hurried to get it off
Sarah & I opened the gate we stayed there till he came back I got a drive Sarah & I {?}
me off of the wagon to pick berries. Saturday noon I took pa dinner down to him I fished
while he ate his dinner The girls trimming hats all afternoon I did all my work after I got
back in the afternoon We did not get cleaned up untill night. Sunday 5th.. We did not get
up untill late so we had to hurry for Sunday School. Ida & I wore our new hats. we stayed
for church. Very windy coming home Emma Bray home she walked home with Davidson.
Alfred Alton down to church After church
I went out after Sunday School & Ernest & Alfred came in with buggy E.W. bowed but I did
not for I did not know who he was bowing to. Joe sick sturday afternoon but he went away
Sunday morning & did not come back untill 9 or 10. O'Clock at night. After tea we milked
got through Alfred & Ernest came Alf drove. they had some candy which they gave us.
Ernest was so burlesque. He had a cigar with which he smoked. Ida got a gem of Alf out of
his Album so E.W. came in house after Ida to get it. He looking at time table. Mrs Foster
came then we went
in to parlor had some splendid music. E.W. had his mouth organ. After got through Alfred
Annie & Sarah went for a drive Ernest & I went down to open the gate for them. We went
down around the Block on Soverign street up to barn gate. We got back before the girls
did. We sat down on stoop waiting for them. We got home 15 min before them. Alfred
wants E.W. to take two of us up there to his place, before he goes way, so I think that we will
go week after next. on Sunday E.W. was up to Mrs Thompsons helping them with harvest
so Edith asked him
to take us up there some evening. Ernest gave Annie a puzzle a letter that he wrote he
said that he would tell me so that when we wrote we could let any know what we said in our
letter. Annie Made it out. The boys went home about 8.30 O'clock. Monday 6th.. I went
16
over to Hixson's with baskets for currants coming back I went in the creak with my shoes
& stockings off stayed & played around then came home went to Bronte for the mail f
went to my post office got a letter from Zillah. came home got my dinner washed some
things Mopped the wood
shed & stoop by the pump. Went & layed down slept. got up done my work milked I
wrote a letter to Zillah when I was getting ready to go to post it, why E.W. came after
honey Mandia & Mrs Wild came with berries. Ida, Annie & Sarah & I all went to Bronte.
After Ernest left Ida said she was coming to see where I posted my letter. We walked till
we got to Soverign street then we parted with Annie & Sarah. I did not post my letter
because Ida was with me. We met Ella McCauley & family at School house corner. we
taked for a while then
we went over to Post Office seen Annie, Sarah, Ella Mckay, Dan Bray, Johnie Ingledew, E.W.
Ernest did not like the way I had my hat on we started home we got past Sutler street
when Ernest came running home after us so he came up to gate he just talked for all he
was worth never stopped one minute he had the jar of honey with him he was
telling him us about boarding house in Hamilton went when he went to College last winter.
He just finished then he turned & ran for Mandia & Mrs Wild were coming down lane. There
were
such a lot of things going on in Bronte to night Monday Annie & Sarah seen almost every
body that they wanted to. They seen Arthur Riggs & Agnes Polic prominading up & down
the street. The girls washed to day. Tuesday 7th.. Extracted honey in afternoon. Emily
Triller & Miss Harvey down stayed for tea Ma went to Bronte brought Artie Russel & Bugd
up. Mrs Ferguson came to the gate put couple of baskets inside of gate then went away.
We all got cleaned up. I went for the cows up to the concession seen an old woman in on
the ground under the popular trees I went up to see who it was
17
as it happened to be Nelsons Belyea girl. I went on down to post Zillah's letter went in
Colton's old place & got some poppies then I went down to the right post office. After
tea I washed the dishes then I went out to shut the shutters when I heard some body
talking. I listened & it was E.M. & Maria talking about me & E.W. so I went right of to bed it
was eight O'clock. E.M. came & took the little lamp I stayed till nine O'clock then Jennie
Wild came with her mother & her & Ida came upstairs & talked to me then I got up &
dressed my self went
down stairs & Katie Dorland was there came to see Annie & she was just going away. So
Jennie Ida & I went in parlor & Jennie told us the rest of the Forrest House & some other
stories. She had been to Hamilton for a {illegible} week. Wednesday 8th.. August 83.
picking berries Mrs Wild & Jennie came after berries. We went up to upper patch picked a
basket of white caps for her. Sarah & I picked till dinner time then we had a sleep till
three O'clock then we finished picking at dusk then we had to milk & get our supper for
Ida & I had to got over to Jennie
ar Seven O'clock. Ida & I went E.M.went first for we were not ready to go. We took some
post cards for Manda to write for invitations for their Garden party at Hixons on Tuesday.
Eve. Ida & I had a little stay for about an hour. Had lots of fun. Ma & Pa went to Hamilton
drove. Pa got his photo taken. Thursday 9th..83. Mrs Bray came & we were out in the
berry field. Ida & I raked the yard the grass off from it. Maria & Sarah went over to Hixons
with the berries for Mrs Wild. E.M. & Little Maria I went down to Ella Mckays for
to spend the evening. She invited Mr Davidson & Girls Brays. Mount Wild came about
nine O'clock. He came up f on his bysickle from Toronto. Sarah & Maria fetched Jennie
back with them she stayed all night. Had a splendid time.
Friday 10th.. 83. Jennie & Ida went to Bronte but before they went Ida wanted to take the
ball with her & so we had a scuffle. I swept the chimney & pipes. Maria baked a fruit cake
for Garden party. three story one. Ma Sarah & I picked black berries befor dinner E.M.
went to Oakville for
18
flour. Ma & I in the garden in afternoon. I went down to our post office but did not get a
letter from Zillah. Ida & I shook & turned over the grass in the yard. Elizabeth Forfar is
coming up tomorrow on boat. Ida went over to Brays with cake tins. Friday Eve. Sarah & I
went over to Ingledews just for a walk Sarah said she would not wait for me but she was
getting a boquet in garden when I had gone so I had to wait for her. We staid till eight
O'clock then came back when we got on top of hill The people were just going
to practise in Church so we saw Jennie & Amanda going so we called Jennie over to fence
for we were on the outside & we talked for while Jennie asked if I had seen E.W. for she
said that she was going in post Office & he was there but she did not notice him only that
she heard him cough & laugh. but we did not see him. We came home ma pa & Joe that
was all who was home.
Saturday 11th.. pa went down to Oakville to fish till the boat came from Toronto as
Elizabeth came on it. I was raking the
yard for the grass which E.M. cut was dry. We had all the cleaning to do after dinner I did
not get washed till Sunday morning. E.M. Joe & I were burning hornets nests & I just was in
the house a few minutes when Mandia & Jennie came we had a nice time talking.
Sunday 12th.. 83 August. I got cleaned up played Organ for a time then I layed down for
a sleep had dinner dressed my self then went to Sunday School. Charlotte Bray taught
our class. Ida & Aggie Curtis & Mack were there for
Sunday School. I stayed for church. Mr. Ferguson took up collection for $20.00 Jennie
& Joshua Mandia came. There were not many out. Sarah Ida & I came up the road with
Jennie when we got to our corner Mr Davidson came with E.M. Jennie wanted us to go up
to her place but Sarah & I did not for we had to milk. Ida went & when we were parting
Mandia Hixson gave me away she said that my fellow was coming for I would not go. & Mr
Davidson laughed & stamped his foot. when we got to our gate Jane Bray & Charlotte
came in to
get some sour apples to eat but Davidson came up for tea. When we eating tea Mr & Mrs
Johnston came in buggy. & baby. so it started to rain so Davidson went home. & about
19
eight O'clock Ernest, Grant, & Mack, came they walked. Ernest had been up to Curtises all
day so Max came a piece of the way with him so Max called for Grant & they all came
down together Annie was away with Edith Ingledew they went the day pa & Ma went to
Hamilton. E.W. wanted a drink so I went with him then we went for a stroll in the garden &
we went up to the
concession & back then we went in Sitting room where Grant & Max, & Sarah were. Max
took his picture out & kept it. Grant fetched his one of mine. & was kissing it & rocking in
chair when he hit his head on the closet door. I gave E.W. his photo of him & he said he
would give me one in exchange for it when he got one taken in the states. Just when they
were going Sarah went & got some honey for them they all eat some there about 5 or ten
minutes
E.W. went out he came in & he did not say any thing so he went out again & he
was lying in the chair in great
pain but I only thought that he was fooling like he some times does. He then went out on
grass & rolled around then by the gate post & tryed to purge but failed. He then came
back on verandia & Maria got some {r}adray for him & Sarah got some campfire & rum but
it did not stop the pain in his stomack. When he was at the gate Sarah & Mack went down
to the lane gate & came back then Mr Johnson got his horse & buggy & was going home
so Mack & I went to open the gate for them it started to rain & they were at the gate so
Max ran
& got opened it & I waited for him to come back so when we got back E.W. was on the
stoop. Max & I was talking till E.W. thought he could walk home. Max & Grant each took
him by the arm & started.
Monday 13th.. 83. We churned Sarah & I washed our rappers. Sarah went to station to
meet Annie & Edith with Horse sarah drove Edith home. Johnsons girls were up playing
with Edith Irene for a while in morning. Ida did not come home till after dinner. I have got
Ironing to do this afternoon yet. E.W. asked me if I could go to the garden
20
party if he took me. He said he would called for me any way on Tuesday Eve for to go over
to Hixson's. Max wanted Ida Jenniue & I to go up there to place some day I said I would not
till Agnettie came down. I asked Maria if I could go she said she did not know. then I told
her E.W. would called & take me she said that I could go perhaps with out him taking me I
am going to get Annie to help me go write of a letter to E.W. Annie wrote a slip & I coppied
it down & sent it. I took it down before supper & George McCraney said he supposed that
I wanted a once cent stamp for to post to my
beau but I said no it was on business. I then went up the back way to our post office but
failed to get a letter. Annie & Sarah went to Bronte. After we were all in bed there was a
knock at the door & Sarah got up & went down to Maria for her to go to the door. it
happened to be Mrs Wild.
Tuesday 14th. 83. Aug. We picked black caps. Mrs. Wild came when we were eating our
dinner she stayed & had hers. Maria got ready & went over with her. Little Maria went
with E.M. over to Brays then he took them to Hixson's. Ida made a cake wreath for our
cake. I got ready first & I went
over to Fosters to get her to go. All of us girls went there were seven out of our house. All
of Curtises all of Williams. all of Brays but two. Mr Curtis & Murry stayed at home. We
were early Ada & I we met Herbert Williams on the log & he said that Ernest had gone to
Depot for Toronto folks. Edith Thompson was the first girl that we were with Agnetta &
Villa came, the girls drove themselves. Agnetta would hardly speak to me she felt her self so
much above. Laura Jones came with Mr & Mrs Sherdian. Sarah Jarvis & Maggie & Johnie
were there. There were lot. Ernest
had Sarah prominading before I went with him he bought a glass of lemonade & a boquet
for her & me. Edith Thompson had Mr Peacock (the school master walking. Sarah had
Melville & E.W. Annie had Walter Lucas Will Spears & John Ingledew. Jennie had Max
Curtis Mr. Bachan{an} from Toronto. Agnetta had Melville for a time & Max had Jessie
21
Williams. E.W. Sarah & I watched them make the mash for quite a time. Jennie had a
lemonade stand all decorated Ida Triller was selling boquets she had a white Satin
basque & white tarlton over skirt & skirt luped
up with flowers she just looked handsome. it was just a splendid Garden Party. They
made $43. & 38 cts. They had several staying over all night. E.W. seen me home & Max
seen Annie & Sarah home. I never spoke to him all that Evening I told him I would not for
he took his picture away after giving it to us. Melville is coming down to Bronte this week.
It was twelve O'clock when we got home.
Wednesday 145th...Aug. I went over to Brodericks after breakfast after baskets. E. M. &
Lizzie went to Hamilton drove up in buggy took some Apples up. We shipped some
apples 5 baskets & 1½ crates of berries.
to Toronto Ma & Maria L. went over to Wilds for to help wash dishes but they were all done
so they did not come back till after dinner. I slept all afternoon got up about five & made
two bed then I had tea went to milk Ma went over to Brays in afternoon. Sarah wrote a
letter to D.E.McLean. & they went & posted it to night after dark.
Thursday 16th...83. We washed E.M. came home from Hamilton I clean the black stoops
then I raked the yard then I got cleaned up & I went down to our post office & the other
one also. When I was coming back
I met Grant his sister & another lady by blackman shop corner. Grant bowed. About 8
O'clock Jennie Wild & Max came Max was driving her home for she went up to Triller
Wedday then she came down to Curtises Thursday so Max drove her home & they called
in here. Max said that E.W. Grant & him were going to fetch there riggs Sunday Eve & Max
wanted Jennie to come down also that night Jennie wants for us girls to ask her mother at
Church for her to come after church her Annie found Max picture he hid it
between some other pictures. Effie & Hattie Broderick were here in the afternoon they
were playing with Edie I'rene.
22
Friday 17th..83. Annie Washed some things. I wrote a letter to Zillah. Edie was sick in the
night. We are Ironing Ma baking. Mrs Foster here Ida & Edie has gone to Bronte. David
Sargeant fetched a whole load of Laughfraells girls down they came for some apples.
Annie & Sarah Maria went to Oakville Sarah got two teeth out Annie did not get time for
any of hers to get done. There were a lot of Bronte people down that day Curtises
Williams.
Brodericks Brays & Waltons Villa & Agnetta were at the dentist when our girls went there
Annie seen E.W. there I was just a going out to milk when I saw Williams going home for I
had went to bed about two & I never got up till near seven. I was playing the Organ when
the folks went came home Dealia & Maggie McCauley were her they fetched there
tickets up they stayed till near ten O'clock it was just a lovely night E.M. & I were trying
to play on Tumblers. We were all sitting out on the Verandia for a long time I never sent
the letter to Zillah. Agnetta told Sarah that she thought I acted so queer at the Garden
party.
Theodar's birthday is on 2 of
May. Wallice's "
" "7 "
April Ernests "
" " 17 "
Janr. Maxwells " " " 18 "
April Joes. W. " " " 24 "
May. Zillah
" " "
April
Wallis's wife " " " 14 "
August. Maria W. " " " 18 "
July
"
L. " "
22 "
August.
Nettie Born 1869. in Bronte.
Pa
" 1812 " "
Ma
" 1830 " "
{Written in purple ink}
23
Minnetta Myrs
Walton Bronte 83
{Following written in black ink}
Father died March 31st 1893
Mother died Sep 6th 1885.
Annie died June 18th 1920
{Symbols & }, house with chimney 2 dots for windows, .t. ***.tree with five branches. ::: extra
dot above each colon.(-).leaf.j.o filled in black, stalk of corn.test tube or vial.symbil for
man.o.^.square.square filled in black.flat o.triangle:}
{Back cover in black leather}
For more information on Minetta “Nettie” Walton, check out the “Meet the Diarists”
section under “Discover” on our website: ruraldiaries.uoguelph.ca
24
1883 Part 1
Transcribed by Rural Diary Archive volunteers
{front cover }
Steam Power Lawn Mower E.C. Stearns & Co Syracuse NY model no 181A - ST.
R 1/2
10
my birthday
June 14 - 1883
{Fred?}
Aug 17 - 1883
(1)
June 14 th/83
My birthday a very fine day & not a cloud to be had in the sky Sarah and I cleaned the
cellar milkroom. Two Marias washed
Mrs Johnson helped them Presents I got were as
follows. Maria gave me 25 cts Annie a cream lace collar Ma a back hair comb. but first I
got a letter from Ernest with a beatiful card in it. Sarah & I went to Bronte after tea I
bought this book in Geo. McCranly Theodar and Joe went fishing Mercy went home this
morning she had little Liddie or Rosie with her she just looks like Mercy Bates. Wallice &
Watson here building boat. June 8th Little Arthur
Pickard was buried from being drowned. Annie Sarah Edith Ingleden, Mr. Johnson & I sang
in the choir & I broke down.
June 10th.. I got pair of new shoes from Oakville. A pair of corsets also from Toronto.
Alfred Alton & Ernest were here for tea Sunday 11th.. June we had lots of company all last
week.
1
June 13 Sarah and I went down to Churchill for bitters for Mercy to take home. Zillah and I
have got a {place?} where we put our letter that we when that is when we do not see each
other very often we have a language which we made our selves in school. Mr. Davidson
teacher. June {15th}.. Charlie McCauleys birthday. I sent a letter to Ernest to day.
Painting the boat they are. Ella McKay and her mother was up this afternoon brought two
jars of potatoes tomatoes. The boys are whitewashing the young orchard to day. E M
past master on the roads. S. A. M. M. are all away Ella McCauley is working at Williams.
June 16th.. Saturday Sarah & I were picking green strawberries in morning. Maria, Watson
went to Hamilton on 2 train on which Mr Wight came up on. Ada Bray here also
Pa was down fishing cought about 15 heron all day.
Saturday 16th Twelve O'clock before I went to bed 15th 10 O'clock 14 twelve O'clock.
June 18th.. Monday raining S. J.S. and I cleaned out the cellar. George Wight here yet.
Maria came back from Hamilton they anticipate to launch the boat Saturday next.
Sunday 17th fine day but a cold fog off of the lake. Ernest came took and Annie & I for a
drive to Oakville. I had a splendid time we were singing & ect. Monday 18 George White
said it took all the bliss from a kiss
if any one seen you. Maggie McCauley here with Miss Sarah Bouncell from Oakville also.
Wallice said that he'd baptize me in the name of the father and of the cedar posts. Ernest
received he is photo from Hamilton with all the college students on it. Poor Ernest. when
he was getting out of the buggie to open the gates I triped him and he fell and skinned his
shin. Tuesday 18th.. June. Washing Mandia Hixson drove here Mrs Wright and Mr Bray all
at once. Maria L. & G. Wright went over to Hixsons in the afternoon. I received a letter
from Zillah
G.W. said if you told any lies at night that you would have to tell them over again in the
morning. he has ten little girls named Alice, Georgina, Victoria. Mary Elizabeth Annie Mary
says when she comes to breakfast Ever lassie has a laddie but none they say have I. G.W.
19th when home to day. Mr Curtis is as tight as the bark on a tree. {rest of page illegible}
2
June 21st/83 I went to Bronte in Morning seen the boat came back and painted the barn
gate Ella McKay came and took Maria L down to see Miss Smith. Maria & Ida went over to
Jacksons to get him to come plaster dining room. Theodore went to Greens. E M went to
Oakville all on Thursday
21st We got some strawberries to day Thursday 21st Wallice said with the greatest
compasity I will. It will all come out in the Washing. William Lucas here for tea 21st.
Friday 22 June/83 us four girls went
over to Williams about seven. Edith Ingleden and Lizzie Carpenter were there also we had
a kind of a tea in about 10 O'clock at night. came home about twelve E.W. came to bridge
we met Jack Mc. Maggie Joyce & Emma going home from the Ice cream party at Jane
Hinton's
Saturday 23rd Jackson came after we had all the cleaning done to plaster he was here
about 1 hr. All the folks ate there supper out in the yard we had strawberries for tea. Ma
& I were picking when E.W. went by on horse back.
Sunday 24th Ma & pa went up to Plannoe Church. We were out in the strawberrie field
when Mrs. & Mr Williams went
home. Ernest told me that he was over to our corner in morning he said Joe promised to
go for a swim but he did not, {so} he went home & light a fire put on some water & he got
in the tub. We all went to Sunday School, Annie Broderick Ella McCauley and Ida & I went
to see the boat so we seen Misses Sanderson from Toronto at Mrs Pages Annie asked me
if I would go for a drive with Arthur at night so I went with Ida & him we went up to
{Powerls?} up the shore, came back again. when we were going up we seen Curtise's were
all out in the varendia Ernest drove the girls home from Sunday School & we made
3
horse fly going past we seen Trillers out on bank we seen Grant & his father out rowing
coming back Mr Eckerson waved his hat at us we drove around Bronte and then came
home Mack and Ernest were here Ernest said that we went so fast the wheels only
touched every 10 fence corners. When they were going away I {circle} {tree-like image}
{semi-circle} {semi-circle} {asterisk} {asterisk} {asterisk} {tall plus sign}. {asterisk}
{asterisk} {asterisk} {scribble} {semi-circle} {asterisk} {asterisk} {semi-circle} {triangle}.
once & he " " " " " " {these appear to be ditto marks under the drawings} me. {triangle} w
{tree-like image} {house image} {asterisk} {asterisk} Mack did also I enjoy my drive &
there stay very much I had a very nice time indeed.
Monday 25th.. raining washed. I dreamyed Sunday night that Ernest had the hooping
cough in our parlor & he was going to die. But I dreamy it Saturday
night that Grant Sarah and I all slept together but I got out & let Sarah sleep with him for I
crowded them two much.
Monday 25 Mr Williams here in the afternoon on horseback.
Tuesday Maria & Sarah went to Oakville got back two O'clock broke one wheel. Ida & I
went over to Joyces after the paper for dining room. Maria Ida papering Wednesday We
picked berries Ernest & his cousin over on the bank shooting when we were picking. His
cousin came tuesday they were picking so they had not time to go & meet him so he went
to sleep up at the station and had to
walk after all.
Thursday 28 Joe Wilds birthday farewell a lot of folks from Hamilton & Toronto Jennie up
with Jessie Scott. I cleaned the hen house out to day white washed it inside. Sarah went
up to station to meet Watson he went to Toronto this morning and she seen all the folks.
Joe got a letter from Henery yesterday he is over to the falls. The bees swarmed to day
28. painting wood work. Mrs Foster here this afternoon. Girls & E M. went over to
Hixsons in evening. Emma, Mabel & Gordon came down. 28.
Friday 29th.. Cleaned the sitting room picked berries
4
in the afternoon. Had Daniel Bray for dinner. Expect to Lauch boat to morrow Saturday.
29th.. {written over 28th with a different pen}. Maxwell down in evening on horse back
Theordore & I put his horse in the barn yard. Ma & Emma went to Oakville to day for some
lard for the boat launch.
Saturday picking berries all day till three O'clock. Issaic Mc & Jennie came down on twelve
train went back on Seven Jennie took Sarah & Annie with her back home. Adarenia came
on two O'clock train we all went down to the boat launch E.W. & his cousin were there.
Will Spears was the first on
it after in the water we all got on it. Will said if he own it he would call it (Nettie). Mabel
broke the bottle & christened it Blandina. Sarah Walton came up on the seven from
Toronto.
Sunday Teordore has gone down to Green's this morning Sunday Fine day.
Sunday 1st July I went to Sunday School Ernest & Mr Lucas here at night Mr Lucas from
Montreal.
Monday 2nd Picking berries Ant Eliza. Eliza Smith & Henery came on morning train went
back at night. I picked 76 qts E.W. Mr Lucas. & Alfred Alton here I have got silk
hankerchief of
Alfred. Annie & Sarah came back on 5.25 train from Hamilton Annie got some gems taken
she gave one to E.W. We had a very nice time they stayed till Eleven O'clock. All Toronto
folks went home.
Tuesday picking Emma Mabel & Gordon went home.
Wednesday 4th July picking washing Bill Morrow hoeing Cow calved. I went to bed at 7
O'clock.
Thursday July 5th.. Had Mr Wild over brought Ida a letter for Jennie wanted some
waxing salve. Sarah went over in Afternoon to Hixons for baskets.
5
Friday. Picking rained every day last week
Saturday 7th.. 83.
Davidson at Shanty Shipped twelve crates at noon E.M. came back from Station took
luggage down to Boat (Blandina) she went to Oakville for some things on Dock Jim W.G. /
E.M. brought Davidson back from boat. Alexandria McDonald came up for there dinner
Wallise & W.G. for they had not time I took down some berries & tea I was on Board while
they were eating there dinner. I got to pine trees when Joe E.M S.B. & Annie were in Wagon
coming to see the boat go out It rained when we got home from Bronte * Tramp for dinner.
Sunday 8th.. I did not go to Sunday School
for I had a sore knee ever since Tuesdays picking I had three boils & was kind of lame
anyway I had rash on my arms & limbs. I keept house that day Bees swarmed when Ma
& Sam were going to church 2 hr 30 min. Ida stayed church. Ida Scratch down from
Milton to Broderick's J. C. E. Mc. S.C. there. Us four girls were all going over to Brodericks
after tea, but only got as far as barn gate when we met E.W. M Lucas E.W. playing Flute & M.
L. mouth Organ. They came in we had some charming music with the Instruments. E.W.
gave me a piece of Marbel with my name on one
side & his on the other. He carved it him self he also did one for Melville. We got a photo
of M Lucas & we (Annie Sarah & I) gave him our gems he also gave us all his cards with
name on. had a very good time. He showed us his girls picture very good looking.
Monday 9th.83 picking. I packing. all day {quotation marks under picking} " " Had Jane B
Mrs B. Miss English & Ella Mc. here right after dinner had Mrs Page. Sam Mc. wife Agnes
Gilliam & lot else after berries. I pick goose berries down Orchard Lizzie Mc came running
up told me to tell Mrs Will Gilliam that here Mothers-in-law was
6
dying she went home from picking white as sheet. Villa had her Mr Rymal out Sunday.
Will Lucas here tonight. packing berries after dark.
Tuesday 10th.. July I went over to Brays for butter Brays just got home from Oakville. I
was milking cows & putting them across the road when Mac & Grant came up on
horseback. Mack helped me carry milk pail to house from barn. Grant & I got friends we
had very good time. G.E. & I telling riddles us all in Grape{ng} Grant & I walking around
the farm. They stayed till
11 O'clock.
Wednesday 11th..83 picking Sarah Jarvis & her mother came in morning. Ida got a card
from Laura stating that she would be at Bronte Station & for us to meet her, so Ida & I went
over to Jennies to get her when we got there she was just taking Mandia up for 5.20 train to
get to Toronto. We went but (L) never came we rode back with Jennie over to her place
then she drove us down to Bronte we came back to corner got out here pack berries
before we got our supper. (G.E.) up
to station for his pa. I talked with him. Annie & I went over to Mrs Johnsons to get her to
wash for us we also went to Joyces.
Thursday 12th.. Orangemens day (Wednesday Mrs Gilliam was buried.
Friday 13th.. July 83 picking berries Jennie came through our place going to Bronte with
her dress to Maggie McCauley for to get made for picknic wednesday Toronto. I went
to Bronte bed at 8 oclock Maggie Jane Sewing here. Mrs. Bray Jane & Mack Curtis here
that night. Maria Lovekin & Jane went to practice at church.
Saturday picking all day extracting
7
honey from bees in P.M. I had to Clean my stoop after that Jennie & Mrs. Hix. son came
for Ida & I to go home with them to stay all night for her & Johonsa & her were going to
Burlington in P.M. so Sarah finished my work so we went Jennie took her grandma home
first then came back for us. We had our tea over there & we played on piano read a novel
out to Josh (Forrest house) then we tried the {ring} machine to see which could go the
highest at our longs Josh went up to 230. Jennie 125 Ida 120 Nettie 115 I could have went
higher but I was not prepared for it.
Sunday 15th.. 83.
Rain woke us up about 6 am we did not get asleep till 12 P.M. It rained till P.M. We tore
around I went down stairs to see what time it was it was 6 A.M. So we talked and played
we got the bed on the floor & pretended that we were asleep when Mrs Hixson came & told
us to get up. We had curley upstairs & we were playing with him We got the dished done
then we did the house work then we sang we read novel to Josh till near dinner time
then we ate butter nuts had our dinner we read Jennie & I till three oclock when it cleared
up then we got redy with Jennie & Josh & they drove
us to our gate they went on to Burlington. it was 15 min to 4 oclock the bees got
swarming church was out so Ida & I watched them till E.M. came with Jed Belyea & he stay
90 min we gave him some honey. E. M. got stung they were awful cross one flew in my
had & Isac Belyea pulled it out. Just when we got tea over who comes along but Ernest
with horse & buggy so Annie & I went up to Applby Church we were late for church but we
went away up to front church A dutchman who preached about clean hands when we
got up to sing Harris Bumby gave up a hymn book for to sing so when we got done singing
Annie
8
& Ernest had hold of the book & they both let go & it fell flat on the floor it made such a
noise. After church we went up to see Melville Lucas staying at William Lucas we got out
of the buggy and went it Dud Alton Jane Stewart her brother & {us} were there we got an
introduction to them all Clara & Annie Lucas are the girls Walter & Jacob are the two big
Brothers. Dud played we all sang Melville played flute & Ernest mouth organ. We had a
very nice time indeed when we were going up to church we met Sarah Blanchard & Will
Cline on twelve hill. We saw Alfred.
& Bumby girls. I had a {symbols - heart drawing 2 other symbols} from ***. W. that night.
Monday 16 I seen grant going to Station. Jennie was down to Bronte came through our
place. Laura came on twelve train from London. E.M. seen her. Alas Garneau down
stayed at Johnstons. She & Ada were up for tea. Ida & I went down to Bronte with them.
Seen G.O. at Post O. Meet Ella Mckay & Mother on street we were in Store quite a while
came home temperance meetings was out and nearly every light out.
Tuesday 17th July 83. picking berries in morning washing I went after washwoman in the
morning before breakfast. I was
hoeing in afternoon. We have Andrew July Carpenter & Will Morrow hoeing today. Agnes
Polic & Joe & Byron Dorland were talking & laughing so I went over to to road & hid to hear
what was going on but found nothing. Annie & Sarah went to Prayer meeting to day night.
George Williams over after grist. We Expected Ruth down to day but did not come.
Wednesday 18th..July. 83. Big Maria, Annie, Sarah, Ida & I picked a crate of berries between
us & we are to have the money from it. Jennie went down to McCauleys for her dress she
came through our place & showed it to us. it was
very nice. Ma went to Hamilton on 2 train. Grant was down seeing Adams yesterday We
seen him. Will Spears went from the station & he threw a kiss. Grant waved his hand &
Jennie Nodded. I went over to Fosters before dinner we have Will Jackson Will Morrow &
Andrew Carpenter hoeing. The two Maria's were sewing at our dresses. Ida went over to
9
see Jane Bray about sewing our dresses so she is coming this after noon. I was decorating
the parlor with cedar & I swept it. Annie & Sarah went to tell the pickers to come this
morning for to pick a crate then they could have the
patch to them selves (Go west & tramp grass hoppers young man.) (Its all serene) (Its all
of a notion) (Habits are like cords of steal Binding us from woe to weal). ( Im your mind.)
(Use your own mental manufacts.)
Friday 20 Thursday 19th.. 83. We had the pickers for last time for picking strawberries
they & us got two crates. Mr Joe. Long came along & took them up to the station for us.
Jane Bray here sewing in afternoon Ada came in the evening. Sarah, Annie &
Ada where all went to Bronte they seen Ernest come around McCraneys corner when they
were looking at the circus bills on the fence. They also seen Mack with Lil in
buggie with his uncle Will. I had a bath in the tub. Wednesday 19th.. July last 83. Sarah
Jarvis down & her mother. And Jim Jarvis, his servant, & son were down on the following
Friday 13th.. 83.
Friday 20th.. 83
not picking anything Jane Bray & Maria L went down to practice Jane
finished our dresses, & brought them over with her & Ada came along. Ella McCauley came
up for a boquet for the girls to go to Hamilton they went Saturday morning. Annie & Sarah
and Ada all went to Bronte. Saturday. I picked some Cherries for one or two pies. Got
nearly through by dinner time for Ma went to Hamilton on Thursday 19 July.
& came back Saturday on 12 train. I was cleaning windows when she came so she put us in
the notion of going to see Jumbo. So I did not eat any dinner for I was not hungry. E. M.
said he thought that two would be enough to go so I thought that that would be Annie &
Sarah. So I came upstairs made my bed & wept because I thought that I could not go.
Maria came up & wanted me to eat my dinner but would not. I went down & picked 5
basket of strawberries & 2 black caps for to take up to Watson Annie Maria W. Ma & I
picked them so we took them up 24 baskets. Annie Sarah & I we all whent up on
10
the 7 train. E.M. drove up us to the depot on the Strawberrie wagon Annie drove. After we
left Hamilton depot we left the basket of berries at depot & when we got away up Cannon
Street we met Sarah & Wallice coming down to meet us. So we went in there place and
she took us down in kitchen and gave us some things to eat for I did not eat any Supper
either before going. I only had a drink of water & a {fruit} {foisk?} biscuit at Sarah place.
Then we went on up to Watsons they came up with us. Jennie all alone with Gordon
putting him to bed we talked theyn Mr. Mc. came so we girls
went down town shopping. We went to Campbells & Penticost where Jennies fellow is a
clerk. we all got an introduction to him we bought gloves and pair stockings in there. we
then went down to Patt & Watckins bought ribbon, lace etc. It Thundered & lightened
terrible. we ran all the way till we got home & we no more than got nicely in the house
when it rained. We sit up & Sewed lace on sleeves. Sunday 22th..83 July. I way rather
hungry & I ate some porridge & drank two cups of tea then some water so I turner sick
to my stomack So when Annie & Sarah were getting ready I through up my breakfast, so I
could not got to church. We did not go to Sunday School. but we when down to see boat
in afternoon Mc and us girls. we went oven emigrent way I nearly got in. they were lots of
people waiting to see Jumbo come in on train at the bridges We went back Sarah Mable
& I all went to get a drink in dairy but could not get in. I went to Kings thinking that I could
maybe get a drink but they were away out. So went home tired & exhausted. We then
after
tea all went to Sentenary church we went & Stayed down to Wallices that night Sunday
and stayed all night. Monday 23rd 83 July we got up Miss Wilkinson there. Annie & I
slept to gether. after breakfast we went down Street to see procession which was
extraordinary. We first were in P.& Watkins came across st. seen A. Bray, J.B., D.B., & S.B.
M.W. T.W. & E.M. W. on st. they all drove up in morning. We went to show after procession.
It rained when we were on the st. waiting for the procession to come & we were all standing
in side of a store door when up came Alfred
11
Alton & his brother. We walked away up to the grounds & were we all tired & Jennie lost
her ear-ring so we all went away back to a grocery store. E.M. & Dan told woman to get
some tea made. bought pound of cheese ½ lbs of butter 2 loafs of bread. 1 can of
Sardeens & 1 can of cand peaches. some biscuit, some eggs. etc. had a very good dinner
instead of walking away down town. There was a fearful crowd when we got back again
had to wait ½ hr. for E.M. to get our tickets. Before we went in the tent we seen as follows
Lizzie Carpenter, Sarah, Dorland. Will Husband. Ben Dorland &
Susie his daughter. A Whight, from middle road. Mr Coats from burlington. Will Morrow &
our Joe in the side show & Johnstons family. Then after were we going in to circus we
seen Will Colton & his wife Georgina Mc. Maggie Colton & Jack Hinton. Theodore Brameld
from Greens at Oakville. Will Spears, Lucy, Jane Charlotte & George Bumby. Laura Jones &
Minnie Sherdian from Planoe. Edith Thompsons Olive Mr Thompson & Ida Triller. drove in
town. Archie Spears & his brother Agnes Polic, Walter Dorland & Jack Mc.. were drunk. On
the train we seen Mar(illegible)
Shaw & Andrew Carpenter. We got in the same car as Bumbys Carpenters Laura, Minnie
etc. When we got to Burlington Bob Osburn Bill Skeliton got a fighting with the conductor
& brakesman they put them of the train & they smashed a lamp and window. James & Mr
Mc came down to the train with us. When we got of at Bronte Ernest was there to meet us
but we had to walk so E.W. Sarah & I all walked together & Annie & Will Spears. Had a very
nice time indeed I went to tie the dog & Ernest came over and we had a word then we
parted with a hand shake.{symbols}:::YEooo.
Monday Tues 24..th 83. we picked black currants & black currents. Wednesday 25th.. 83.
picking had Ella Mckay for tea after night. Us girls coaksing for to go picking raspberries,
in the morning. Annie & Sarah went down to prayer meeting. Ernest is going to Chicago in
about four or five weeks. We had Mr & Mrs Ferguson for dinner Mr took Freddie up to
hamilton to let him go to London so Mrs Ferguson stayed at our place till train time then
12
E.M had some berries to take up so he fetched him back with him. Thursday 26..th 83 Mrs
Ed Lucas & her children Laura
Jones came down from Planmo {Planoe} They were here for tea Artie & Lilly sang for us.
Friday 27..th 83 Mrs Buck & Edith Ingledew over helping us pick black currants. It came on
a terrible rain blew so they did not go until 8 O'clock.
Saturday picking until noon then we had to do all our work after that. Ella McKay & her
mother came in the afternoon they came after vinegar ma gave them some reddishes &
some honey. So Ella fetched a pair of black kid gloves for ma to pick goose berries in & two
loafs of bread. I was working at my print rapper friday &
Saturday tried to finish it Saturday I was working the button holes. I did not get washed
untill dark. Mandia Hixson & her mother came when I was waiting for Sarah to put buttons
on it. E.M. went to Toronto in morning so they got Joe to hitch the horse for to meet him at
station. So Laura, Ida & Maria Started for to meet him when he was right in the field so
they drove to Bronte from sugar. Mandia just came from Toronto. We had Mary Pickard
washing for us Friday. Sunday 29th.. fine day but windy. Laura & us girls playing in parlor.
We all
went to Sunday School. We stayed for Church. When Laura Ida & I were going to the Lake
for a walk we seen E.W. & M.C. come whith his buggy. Annie & Max went for a drive. E.W.
& I went for a walk & had good talk. E.M. & M.L. went to Mount Pleasant Church.
E.W. says that there is one who he knows is praying for him to leave & that is Grant. E.W. is
going to Chichago for to go into business for himself. He said that Grant told Will Spears
that he was agoing to spark me after E.W. leaves. Mack told Annie that
he made a bargain with E.W. that Mack had to keep E.W. posted about the (Grapery). E.W.
asked me if I would write if he did, & I told him yes if my folks wl would have nothing to say
against it. Monday 30th.. I killed a hen before breakfast but Sunday morning I drowned
two kitten before breakfast. Edith & Mrs Buck here picking blackcurrents finished in the
13
field. they are now picking in garden. Annie Sarah Ida Laura & I went down to Temperance
meeting I went down to get
mail for the girls were not dressed So I came back up to the pine tree. Little Maria met
me there. We all got down to half way to School House when we met John Ingledew & Bob
Joyce so Laura Ida & I went on to the meeting & then went for walk. We were rather to
early but we waited for a time then we went in. There were not many there but it was the
best Temperance meeting that I was ever at in Bronte. When we got to the lane gate we
met the two fellows just coming home. Annie & Sarah were not in bed when we got home.
Mrs
Robinson gave speach. We have got a by work from it. As follows. (Let you that be.) Pa
went down to Oakville with Mr Foster for he was agoing to meet his wife she was very sick.
Tuesday 31th..83. July. I took a dose of salts. We shipped a crate to Mrs Jones London.
Laura put a letter in side of it. Laura & Sarah rode over to the corner of Riggses with him &
he would hardly let Laura of when she wanted to. Laura & Ida went away up to Mrs Douglas
bare headed he would not let them g? at noon.
Monday 30 Ida & I & Laura
took three baskets of Cherries over to the corner on top of the old buggy we all pulled it
over there for our folks were busy with our horses. Mr Carpenter took them up for us.
Tuesday 31th.. Minnie Sherdian came for Laura, to take her home up to Plarmeo. For it is
her & Walters birthdays Thursday 2.
Thursday 2th..August 1883. Tuesday 31th.. Minnie &
Walter Sherdian here after Laura. We playing croquet. first game that we had this
summer. Wednesday Edith & Mrs Ingledew came to pick red currants. I cleaned the path
out & we churned
The two Maria's persevering fruit?
I cleaned windows after noon. When I was finishing the
path, Emily Triller & his pa drove through from Oakville. I was taking up the grass in the
wheel barrow I only had one shoe on. I dress up at night went down to post letter to
Zillah. I met her when I was going & we sat down on a stone had a talk got up went for a
14
walk down past Larkins seen those strange people in there house had a good talk came
home got up to Nelson's corner Ida met me she went a piece with Annie & Sarah &
Edith. Ida told me that Sarah Jarvis & her f brother were here also. Annie & Sarah seen
Ernest on horse back coming back up the hill with Mrs Joyce helping here S up the hill. but
after Monday night our girls feel ashamed of themselves for ever going with the fellows.
We met them at our lane gate going home.
Thursday 2th.. We are washing Mrs Ingledew & Mrs Buck & here little girl here. We had
Will Lucas here tuesday the night Laura went after he came for a feed of honey. He asked
me what would I do when I lost Ernest & I told him that I never knew I had him to
loose. I have got a very bad cough & am not very well any way. Ags 2 th.. We are going to
pick black caps this afternoon for to send to London.
Thursday 2th August. afternoon Annie getting ready to go to Bronte when Arvilla &
Agnetta Curtis came they said they would not stay because we were so busy & that they
would come back again some day. Ella Mckay & her mother about 6 O'clock. Ernest came
before they went away Arthur Broderick here also Joe & Arthur burnt the Bees nest in
the smoke house. After they got through burning it I went in the
house & I layed down on sofa in dinning room & I wondered who that was talking to pa out
on the stoop. The girls said that Ernest was there so I layed for a minute then I wanted to
go upstairs the girls said I was not to change my dress so I went up in the dark pa came
in & said he had gone so I heard some body talking so I got out on the roof & I listened to
him & Annie talking in the lane.
Friday 3th.. August The two Maria's went to Toronto on boat Southern Belle. Annie drove
them. Three Curtises girls went also I Annie got 1 tooth pulled
and one filled. A I & Ma cleaned the wheat meat. I carried it up out of the cellar & we
washed it. I layed down after dinner then Ma call me to go down to take pa some dinner
so I went & I met him by Lem Dorland so I went to Post Office seen Emma, Hixsons girl, &
15
Mr Williams got home Mrs Bray came. Max went to meet the girls & our girls at Oakville
Grant went with him. Saturday 4th.. picking berries sent a ½ crate hurried to get it off
Sarah & I opened the gate we stayed there till he came back I got a drive Sarah & I {?}
me off of the wagon to pick berries. Saturday noon I took pa dinner down to him I fished
while he ate his dinner The girls trimming hats all afternoon I did all my work after I got
back in the afternoon We did not get cleaned up untill night. Sunday 5th.. We did not get
up untill late so we had to hurry for Sunday School. Ida & I wore our new hats. we stayed
for church. Very windy coming home Emma Bray home she walked home with Davidson.
Alfred Alton down to church After church
I went out after Sunday School & Ernest & Alfred came in with buggy E.W. bowed but I did
not for I did not know who he was bowing to. Joe sick sturday afternoon but he went away
Sunday morning & did not come back untill 9 or 10. O'Clock at night. After tea we milked
got through Alfred & Ernest came Alf drove. they had some candy which they gave us.
Ernest was so burlesque. He had a cigar with which he smoked. Ida got a gem of Alf out of
his Album so E.W. came in house after Ida to get it. He looking at time table. Mrs Foster
came then we went
in to parlor had some splendid music. E.W. had his mouth organ. After got through Alfred
Annie & Sarah went for a drive Ernest & I went down to open the gate for them. We went
down around the Block on Soverign street up to barn gate. We got back before the girls
did. We sat down on stoop waiting for them. We got home 15 min before them. Alfred
wants E.W. to take two of us up there to his place, before he goes way, so I think that we will
go week after next. on Sunday E.W. was up to Mrs Thompsons helping them with harvest
so Edith asked him
to take us up there some evening. Ernest gave Annie a puzzle a letter that he wrote he
said that he would tell me so that when we wrote we could let any know what we said in our
letter. Annie Made it out. The boys went home about 8.30 O'clock. Monday 6th.. I went
16
over to Hixson's with baskets for currants coming back I went in the creak with my shoes
& stockings off stayed & played around then came home went to Bronte for the mail f
went to my post office got a letter from Zillah. came home got my dinner washed some
things Mopped the wood
shed & stoop by the pump. Went & layed down slept. got up done my work milked I
wrote a letter to Zillah when I was getting ready to go to post it, why E.W. came after
honey Mandia & Mrs Wild came with berries. Ida, Annie & Sarah & I all went to Bronte.
After Ernest left Ida said she was coming to see where I posted my letter. We walked till
we got to Soverign street then we parted with Annie & Sarah. I did not post my letter
because Ida was with me. We met Ella McCauley & family at School house corner. we
taked for a while then
we went over to Post Office seen Annie, Sarah, Ella Mckay, Dan Bray, Johnie Ingledew, E.W.
Ernest did not like the way I had my hat on we started home we got past Sutler street
when Ernest came running home after us so he came up to gate he just talked for all he
was worth never stopped one minute he had the jar of honey with him he was
telling him us about boarding house in Hamilton went when he went to College last winter.
He just finished then he turned & ran for Mandia & Mrs Wild were coming down lane. There
were
such a lot of things going on in Bronte to night Monday Annie & Sarah seen almost every
body that they wanted to. They seen Arthur Riggs & Agnes Polic prominading up & down
the street. The girls washed to day. Tuesday 7th.. Extracted honey in afternoon. Emily
Triller & Miss Harvey down stayed for tea Ma went to Bronte brought Artie Russel & Bugd
up. Mrs Ferguson came to the gate put couple of baskets inside of gate then went away.
We all got cleaned up. I went for the cows up to the concession seen an old woman in on
the ground under the popular trees I went up to see who it was
17
as it happened to be Nelsons Belyea girl. I went on down to post Zillah's letter went in
Colton's old place & got some poppies then I went down to the right post office. After
tea I washed the dishes then I went out to shut the shutters when I heard some body
talking. I listened & it was E.M. & Maria talking about me & E.W. so I went right of to bed it
was eight O'clock. E.M. came & took the little lamp I stayed till nine O'clock then Jennie
Wild came with her mother & her & Ida came upstairs & talked to me then I got up &
dressed my self went
down stairs & Katie Dorland was there came to see Annie & she was just going away. So
Jennie Ida & I went in parlor & Jennie told us the rest of the Forrest House & some other
stories. She had been to Hamilton for a {illegible} week. Wednesday 8th.. August 83.
picking berries Mrs Wild & Jennie came after berries. We went up to upper patch picked a
basket of white caps for her. Sarah & I picked till dinner time then we had a sleep till
three O'clock then we finished picking at dusk then we had to milk & get our supper for
Ida & I had to got over to Jennie
ar Seven O'clock. Ida & I went E.M.went first for we were not ready to go. We took some
post cards for Manda to write for invitations for their Garden party at Hixons on Tuesday.
Eve. Ida & I had a little stay for about an hour. Had lots of fun. Ma & Pa went to Hamilton
drove. Pa got his photo taken. Thursday 9th..83. Mrs Bray came & we were out in the
berry field. Ida & I raked the yard the grass off from it. Maria & Sarah went over to Hixons
with the berries for Mrs Wild. E.M. & Little Maria I went down to Ella Mckays for
to spend the evening. She invited Mr Davidson & Girls Brays. Mount Wild came about
nine O'clock. He came up f on his bysickle from Toronto. Sarah & Maria fetched Jennie
back with them she stayed all night. Had a splendid time.
Friday 10th.. 83. Jennie & Ida went to Bronte but before they went Ida wanted to take the
ball with her & so we had a scuffle. I swept the chimney & pipes. Maria baked a fruit cake
for Garden party. three story one. Ma Sarah & I picked black berries befor dinner E.M.
went to Oakville for
18
flour. Ma & I in the garden in afternoon. I went down to our post office but did not get a
letter from Zillah. Ida & I shook & turned over the grass in the yard. Elizabeth Forfar is
coming up tomorrow on boat. Ida went over to Brays with cake tins. Friday Eve. Sarah & I
went over to Ingledews just for a walk Sarah said she would not wait for me but she was
getting a boquet in garden when I had gone so I had to wait for her. We staid till eight
O'clock then came back when we got on top of hill The people were just going
to practise in Church so we saw Jennie & Amanda going so we called Jennie over to fence
for we were on the outside & we talked for while Jennie asked if I had seen E.W. for she
said that she was going in post Office & he was there but she did not notice him only that
she heard him cough & laugh. but we did not see him. We came home ma pa & Joe that
was all who was home.
Saturday 11th.. pa went down to Oakville to fish till the boat came from Toronto as
Elizabeth came on it. I was raking the
yard for the grass which E.M. cut was dry. We had all the cleaning to do after dinner I did
not get washed till Sunday morning. E.M. Joe & I were burning hornets nests & I just was in
the house a few minutes when Mandia & Jennie came we had a nice time talking.
Sunday 12th.. 83 August. I got cleaned up played Organ for a time then I layed down for
a sleep had dinner dressed my self then went to Sunday School. Charlotte Bray taught
our class. Ida & Aggie Curtis & Mack were there for
Sunday School. I stayed for church. Mr. Ferguson took up collection for $20.00 Jennie
& Joshua Mandia came. There were not many out. Sarah Ida & I came up the road with
Jennie when we got to our corner Mr Davidson came with E.M. Jennie wanted us to go up
to her place but Sarah & I did not for we had to milk. Ida went & when we were parting
Mandia Hixson gave me away she said that my fellow was coming for I would not go. & Mr
Davidson laughed & stamped his foot. when we got to our gate Jane Bray & Charlotte
came in to
get some sour apples to eat but Davidson came up for tea. When we eating tea Mr & Mrs
Johnston came in buggy. & baby. so it started to rain so Davidson went home. & about
19
eight O'clock Ernest, Grant, & Mack, came they walked. Ernest had been up to Curtises all
day so Max came a piece of the way with him so Max called for Grant & they all came
down together Annie was away with Edith Ingledew they went the day pa & Ma went to
Hamilton. E.W. wanted a drink so I went with him then we went for a stroll in the garden &
we went up to the
concession & back then we went in Sitting room where Grant & Max, & Sarah were. Max
took his picture out & kept it. Grant fetched his one of mine. & was kissing it & rocking in
chair when he hit his head on the closet door. I gave E.W. his photo of him & he said he
would give me one in exchange for it when he got one taken in the states. Just when they
were going Sarah went & got some honey for them they all eat some there about 5 or ten
minutes
E.W. went out he came in & he did not say any thing so he went out again & he
was lying in the chair in great
pain but I only thought that he was fooling like he some times does. He then went out on
grass & rolled around then by the gate post & tryed to purge but failed. He then came
back on verandia & Maria got some {r}adray for him & Sarah got some campfire & rum but
it did not stop the pain in his stomack. When he was at the gate Sarah & Mack went down
to the lane gate & came back then Mr Johnson got his horse & buggy & was going home
so Mack & I went to open the gate for them it started to rain & they were at the gate so
Max ran
& got opened it & I waited for him to come back so when we got back E.W. was on the
stoop. Max & I was talking till E.W. thought he could walk home. Max & Grant each took
him by the arm & started.
Monday 13th.. 83. We churned Sarah & I washed our rappers. Sarah went to station to
meet Annie & Edith with Horse sarah drove Edith home. Johnsons girls were up playing
with Edith Irene for a while in morning. Ida did not come home till after dinner. I have got
Ironing to do this afternoon yet. E.W. asked me if I could go to the garden
20
party if he took me. He said he would called for me any way on Tuesday Eve for to go over
to Hixson's. Max wanted Ida Jenniue & I to go up there to place some day I said I would not
till Agnettie came down. I asked Maria if I could go she said she did not know. then I told
her E.W. would called & take me she said that I could go perhaps with out him taking me I
am going to get Annie to help me go write of a letter to E.W. Annie wrote a slip & I coppied
it down & sent it. I took it down before supper & George McCraney said he supposed that
I wanted a once cent stamp for to post to my
beau but I said no it was on business. I then went up the back way to our post office but
failed to get a letter. Annie & Sarah went to Bronte. After we were all in bed there was a
knock at the door & Sarah got up & went down to Maria for her to go to the door. it
happened to be Mrs Wild.
Tuesday 14th. 83. Aug. We picked black caps. Mrs. Wild came when we were eating our
dinner she stayed & had hers. Maria got ready & went over with her. Little Maria went
with E.M. over to Brays then he took them to Hixson's. Ida made a cake wreath for our
cake. I got ready first & I went
over to Fosters to get her to go. All of us girls went there were seven out of our house. All
of Curtises all of Williams. all of Brays but two. Mr Curtis & Murry stayed at home. We
were early Ada & I we met Herbert Williams on the log & he said that Ernest had gone to
Depot for Toronto folks. Edith Thompson was the first girl that we were with Agnetta &
Villa came, the girls drove themselves. Agnetta would hardly speak to me she felt her self so
much above. Laura Jones came with Mr & Mrs Sherdian. Sarah Jarvis & Maggie & Johnie
were there. There were lot. Ernest
had Sarah prominading before I went with him he bought a glass of lemonade & a boquet
for her & me. Edith Thompson had Mr Peacock (the school master walking. Sarah had
Melville & E.W. Annie had Walter Lucas Will Spears & John Ingledew. Jennie had Max
Curtis Mr. Bachan{an} from Toronto. Agnetta had Melville for a time & Max had Jessie
21
Williams. E.W. Sarah & I watched them make the mash for quite a time. Jennie had a
lemonade stand all decorated Ida Triller was selling boquets she had a white Satin
basque & white tarlton over skirt & skirt luped
up with flowers she just looked handsome. it was just a splendid Garden Party. They
made $43. & 38 cts. They had several staying over all night. E.W. seen me home & Max
seen Annie & Sarah home. I never spoke to him all that Evening I told him I would not for
he took his picture away after giving it to us. Melville is coming down to Bronte this week.
It was twelve O'clock when we got home.
Wednesday 145th...Aug. I went over to Brodericks after breakfast after baskets. E. M. &
Lizzie went to Hamilton drove up in buggy took some Apples up. We shipped some
apples 5 baskets & 1½ crates of berries.
to Toronto Ma & Maria L. went over to Wilds for to help wash dishes but they were all done
so they did not come back till after dinner. I slept all afternoon got up about five & made
two bed then I had tea went to milk Ma went over to Brays in afternoon. Sarah wrote a
letter to D.E.McLean. & they went & posted it to night after dark.
Thursday 16th...83. We washed E.M. came home from Hamilton I clean the black stoops
then I raked the yard then I got cleaned up & I went down to our post office & the other
one also. When I was coming back
I met Grant his sister & another lady by blackman shop corner. Grant bowed. About 8
O'clock Jennie Wild & Max came Max was driving her home for she went up to Triller
Wedday then she came down to Curtises Thursday so Max drove her home & they called
in here. Max said that E.W. Grant & him were going to fetch there riggs Sunday Eve & Max
wanted Jennie to come down also that night Jennie wants for us girls to ask her mother at
Church for her to come after church her Annie found Max picture he hid it
between some other pictures. Effie & Hattie Broderick were here in the afternoon they
were playing with Edie I'rene.
22
Friday 17th..83. Annie Washed some things. I wrote a letter to Zillah. Edie was sick in the
night. We are Ironing Ma baking. Mrs Foster here Ida & Edie has gone to Bronte. David
Sargeant fetched a whole load of Laughfraells girls down they came for some apples.
Annie & Sarah Maria went to Oakville Sarah got two teeth out Annie did not get time for
any of hers to get done. There were a lot of Bronte people down that day Curtises
Williams.
Brodericks Brays & Waltons Villa & Agnetta were at the dentist when our girls went there
Annie seen E.W. there I was just a going out to milk when I saw Williams going home for I
had went to bed about two & I never got up till near seven. I was playing the Organ when
the folks went came home Dealia & Maggie McCauley were her they fetched there
tickets up they stayed till near ten O'clock it was just a lovely night E.M. & I were trying
to play on Tumblers. We were all sitting out on the Verandia for a long time I never sent
the letter to Zillah. Agnetta told Sarah that she thought I acted so queer at the Garden
party.
Theodar's birthday is on 2 of
May. Wallice's "
" "7 "
April Ernests "
" " 17 "
Janr. Maxwells " " " 18 "
April Joes. W. " " " 24 "
May. Zillah
" " "
April
Wallis's wife " " " 14 "
August. Maria W. " " " 18 "
July
"
L. " "
22 "
August.
Nettie Born 1869. in Bronte.
Pa
" 1812 " "
Ma
" 1830 " "
{Written in purple ink}
23
Minnetta Myrs
Walton Bronte 83
{Following written in black ink}
Father died March 31st 1893
Mother died Sep 6th 1885.
Annie died June 18th 1920
{Symbols & }, house with chimney 2 dots for windows, .t. ***.tree with five branches. ::: extra
dot above each colon.(-).leaf.j.o filled in black, stalk of corn.test tube or vial.symbil for
man.o.^.square.square filled in black.flat o.triangle:}
{Back cover in black leather}
For more information on Minetta “Nettie” Walton, check out the “Meet the Diarists”
section under “Discover” on our website: ruraldiaries.uoguelph.ca
24
