Irene Dixon Bamford 1921 November to 1922 March,
Diary Transcription
5034_4-2-11

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1
IRENE DIXON BAMFORD
DIARY Nov, 1921 to
Mar. 4 1922
QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY ARCHIVES
LOCATOR 5034.4
BOX 2
FILE 11

2
Nov. 1921
to
Mar. 4, 1922

3
Wednesday 9 Nov 1921
This morning the ground is frozen to hard
to plow: The snow is falling and the Earth
is again covered with snow.
Voltie is digging the garden regularly
carrots, beets, and parsnips. Joe went
down to his fathers for something, I don’t
know what, and stopped at Rachels to to
feed her hens. There are lots of quail heads
heads left on the poles. I guess they will
have to remain there all winter. The wind
is from the East this morning and breezy
Ray Card came in here in his car buying
turkeys; bought Emma’s paying her $10.00
dollars in advance. I received a long
letter from Grace, a very interesting letter
expressing regret that she had not known
of the acquaintaince and friendship between
Mrs John Grey and myself. I too am
sorry. I would have written her, had I
known that she was living, and her place of
residence, which was no further away than
Watertown. So I have received an answer
to one of my 4 letters. Howard here to borrow
Salt. Joe up to Samy’s all day cleaning
and bagging oats. but comes home to supper.
The boat won’t come in this day on account
of storm. So Voltie does not think of driving
through to the dock in morning. Storm increasing
[left margin]
253 Arsenal Street Watertown
[top margin]
{[75
Re-Read
’76-’84]}

4
Thursday 10th Nov 1921
Awoke this morning to find a real wintry day
far and wide. The fields, roofs of every house, barn,
and shed as far as we can see covered with a white
blanket of snow a foot deep and the snow is falling
fast. Emma up getting breakfast, Edith helped to milk
Joe upstairs with a lame back. Voltie went over there
to feed his hens. Edith talking to Arlome by telephone.
Churning done. Vottie drove to the boat for apples
for Gus Rathray two barrels. had to wait a
long time for the boat to come in. Many of
the neighbors there waiting too, to send
there produce to Kingston. As soon
as loaded, the boat left again from the village.
We were waiting for Voltie to come home
to supper. After 8 Oclock when he came
Emma doctoring Joe for rheumatism.
Friday 11th Nov 1921
This day same as yesterday for wintry weather
tho it is thawing a little. The ground is white with
snow every where. Voltie and Joe both affected with
rheumatism. both saw my wood with cross cut
Saw. Edith away to Annie’s for our gobler.
Not much to write in a diary these days
for the time goes monotonously on day by day.
Three meals each day which occupies a
most of the time. Not much sewing done; no
threads only crochet thread, no yarn to knit
Keeping a diary may be all nonsense. Who knows

5
our big globbler got tired of waiting to be
to be carried to market and so went
in company of our neighbors turkey, but
a little globbler came to live with our turkeys.
Thursday 18th Nov 1921
Nearly a week since I wrote in this
diary. Since last Friday I have
received letters 1 from Grace, 1 from Muriel,
1 from Charley Halliday Jr. & one from Ethelyn
Halliday. in answer I have written Grace
and Muriel. I wrote a long letter to
Belle which remains unanswered
Then yesterday Voltie butchered 4
pigs and Emma’s turkeys 10 of them
which weighed 112½ lbs. besides bagging
oats too. Now this is 21st of Nov ’22
a very fine day. snow all gone. Wind
south and blowing some. The wind
shaking the few remaining leaves from
the trees. Voltie and Joe plowing. Emma
washing and sewing and getting dinner
Rachel washes dishes. I finished writing
to Charley H Jr. and Ethelyn but dont send
any to any one. Yesterday was Sunday
No one here excepting Mr and Mrs
George Niles who were invited in
while passing here on their way to church

6
Voltie and [[Joe]] & Keil & Samy
went to Grindstone Island in
the motor. and returned at dark
bringing candy, pins, and calico
A birthday present for me from Joe
and Emma and one from Rachel
and one from Voltie. The boys, Voltie
and Joe, saw some, not very handsome
people in the store from Gananoque
buying things
It was late when they arrived home
but V went to Rachels to feed
her hens and drive home the
cows, milk, separate milk
then supper, then wash dishes then
to bed. but Edith came home a
little while from Keils. Friday was
the 18 Nov and recieved a letter from
Belle also one from Grace. Sat 20 Nov
was Voltie’s birth day. 20 of Nov
Yesterday 21 Nov
Monday a very fine day. V and J
plowing all day Emma washed, Churned
got all the meals served, made
my dress as a surprise for my
birthday. a week ago this day
Emma went to Will Gillespies to
the aid society with Annie Niles.
[left margin]
No not on Monday the aid meets
every Tuesday.

7
Monday 22nd 1921
Once more I’ve made a mistake
This is Tuesday p.m. Ema
is away to Annie Niles to
the aid taking Keddie Trewe
with her and the snow is falling
thick on and Joe & Voltie has gone
plowing over the hill to bag oats or
some kind of grain & Rachel is
washing dishes and I am
writing without glasses
Tuesday 23rd 1921
Yesterday was the anniversary of my birth 88 years
ago. I received a present from Ema & Joe
a present from Voltie and one from Rachel
Wednesday 24th Nov 1921
The roads are so bad mail came only as
far as Arelius Berry’s. ground bare
and brown
Thursday 25 Nov 1921
A cold stormy day of sleet some snow
some rain which freezes as it falls Emma
and Voltie away to Kingston by boat Joe
drove to boat morning, and again at night
Edith came home from Kiels ½ past 10
staid till 8 pm then going back to Kiels
[left margin]
I send letters
to Muriel and
Charley & Ethelyn
Halliday.

8
Friday 26th Nov 1921.
chilly weather sun not very clear. Windy weather
an argument at breakfast about Cleary &
and his duty as a mail carrier which
ammounted to nothing excepting a noise
and ended in laughter. a good fire in furnace
fire in little stove gone out.
{I receive letters from
Mrs Adams and John}
Saturday 27 Nov 1921
Work going merrily along Emma done all sorts of
Saturday work besides some washing Took carpet off
small room floor moped cleaned baked got the
meals. Rachel knit wee Irene a pair of mittens
Joe went to his fathers to get hog grist ground.
Voltie went down on the lower place and
chopped a load of wood When Joe came home
with grist Joe drove down and helped V bring home
the wood. Then made sour krout in evening in
kitchen.
{Voltie popped corn by furnace}
Sunday 28th Nov
Nasty bad weather all day. No one came
no one went from here. day is short thick
dark and cold. I write to Grace. three meals this
day come close together Edith dont come home
Monday 29th Nov 1921
a cold day cloudy wind blowing from
North. Rachel knitting for Joe Voltie a pair of mittens
Emma fixing together a quilt lining. V & J working
in shop. V & J are getting wood down on
the lower place.

9
Tuesday 29th 1921
This day same as yesterday. Rachel knitting
Wednesday 30
Thursday 1st Dec
This a very good day. Arose early
Voltie drove to the dock with Joe and
the coal bags. Joe going up with the
his oats for market Sam went also Voltie
plowed. I sent a letter to John by Joe.

10
Friday 2nd Dec 1921.
I forget the kind of weather. I guess it couldn’t
have been very bad for the mail came bringing
me two letters one from Irene and one from
Grace. I was Pleased to get them both and
imagined I was in Southern Pines North Carolina
where every thing is so bright warm and beautiful
with flowers, pines beautiful scenery. Cold Here.
Saturday 3rd
A terrible day for wind and weather
Wind South West and blowing a gale and
cold Volkie and Joe finished plowing by
the road The same saturday work done as
usual Knitting going on I dont do much of
any thing only think which is of privilege too
Edith comes home across the field with her suit
case in hand, to stay home. They paid her $5.25.
Sunday 4th
A very good No one goes from here. No one
comes till afternoon, when Frances Gott
and Mortimer McDonald drive in here for
a visit. They stay till 11 O’clock p.m. Then go
home. I dont feel very and go early to bed
Caught cold yesterday The usual amount of
of cooking and eating done Sheridan Maloney
and Samy Woodman here to dinner. Sherd
enroute for the village to do his courting. George
Woodman came for Sherd & took him
to the village and brought him home again

11
Monday 5 Dec 1921
Weather the same. I send a letter
to Irene and Kathleen. Rachel received a letter
from John. Voltie and Joe chopp
and saw wood. Sheridan Maloney here to
dinner. Edith got the breakfast
V and J went to the farmers meeting
at the school house this evening. Emma
went as far as Kiels.
Thursday 6 Dec 1921
This is election day
for the whole dominion of Canada. Great
contention between the farmers and
the Meighen government (conservative) and
The farmers. The Reformers or Liberals
Joe is away to the new school house as
returning office carrying the ballot box
Emma is moping, Rachel knitting
Edith washing dishes Weather half cloudy
and cold. The aid meets at George Niles
this day. The woman all vote then go to
the aid. Voltie drives to the school house
with Emma. then home to dinner. Lois
here to dinner then Emma and Lois walked
down to Geo N’s to the aid. No only Emma
goes Lois stays all afternoon She and
Edith pop corn in cellar by the furnace
The county of Frontenac in favor of
the farmers by a big majority. Reed is the man
Hon Dr Edwards is out of office Conservatives low

12
Wednesday 7th December 1921
This is a very fine day. butchering day. Bill Kiel
and Samy helping. all here to dinner. all talking all
very merry and happy. A letter from Mabel
and one from Grace. Churned and made
prints 20 lbs for market. V planning his affairs
Thursday 8 December 1921
Voltie and Emma went to Kingston this morning on the
carrying porks (2 pigs) which were 27 dollars. Voltie bought
for himself a new suit $47 dollars, and under wear
I sent a letter to Grace. V bring me a I
drank a glass of cider; wish I hadn’t. This is a lovely day.
Friday 9th Dec 1921
A cloudy day not cold S wind. Emma cleaning all the
floors. Rachel knitting as usual Madaline and Edith
[Bouvine] here to supper. then came Alden M. Howard N Ambose N
they staid till 11 pm.
Saturday 10th Dec 1921.
Wind South. no frost on the windows. Didnt
get up very early. but we are all up now and
after breakfast Emma cleaning up again after
last nights visitation. Rachel knitting Edith
washing dishes. V & J cutting and sawing wood
by the wood pile. Weather thick and cloudy
Edith walked over to Morgans at 4pm.
Came home at 2am. I was surprised by the
late arrival of Evening visitors Ray, Maggie &
their three children, Isabel Lawrence & baby Dora
and Smythe and another chap. All
played cards.

13
Sunday 11 Dec. 1921
A soft warm day, sun shining—Emma
and Joe gone to church. After service,
come home, dressed Irene and drove to
Hirams for a visiting. I write a letter to Will.
Emma & Joe stay late to Hirams. I was in
bed long before they came home. He
talks of going to Toronto with Voltie Tuesday.
Monday 12 Dec 1921
A beautiful day, warm, bright, sun light clear
all day. I send Wills letter to Post box. Voltie
and Joe and Sam working in shop all day
shoeing horses putting tongue in single
buggy to drive to the villiage tomorrow. I
began a letter to Maybel Morgan Emma washing
Rachel knitting. no letters only for Emma
from some Kenny girl in Watertown. Only
2 daily Whigs. Christmas number of the
Canadian Countrymen and Farmers []
[left margin]
{Mr Geo Niles here awhile}
Tuesday 13 Dec 1921
Arose at 5 am. hustling around now
to get ready to start for the villiage
to get the first boat across to town. Voltie
going to Toronto as a delegate to the Farmers
Convention, Joe driving to the villiage with
Voltie and Sam. Joe came back in time for
dinner then done all the chores that were
left undone Emma brought in all the wash
and folded the clothes. Joe done all outdoor work.

14
Wednesday 14 Dec
A cloudy day, threatening snow one day of Volties
absence from home gone. Rachel knitting. I sent a letter
to Mabel. Sinclair Michea came to make us a visit
and staid to dinner.
Thursday, 15th Dec 1921
A cloudy day not cold. Edith out of bed early
this monring. going to Kingston; last night Emma
called Annie N to request a passage for Edith
with them to the boat. Said yes Edith carrying
7 lbs of butter and a basket of homemade stuff to
a Mrs. McMillen. apples, hickory nuts, a frosted
layer cake, a bottle of pickles and a can of tomatoes
came back from the dock with them Rachel knitting
Ate dinner with the McMillan’s Voltie away 3
days. Joe fixing a place in the barn for his horse
Pansy.
Friday 16 Dec 1921
A beautfiul day. Voltie swung up from Kingston this
morning to say he is so far on his journey towards home
and wants Joe to drive to the villiage for him Joe
went V came home about 2 O’clock pm, glad to get
home but pleased with his trip, and we are glad to
see Voltie home again. Rachel knitting. V brought
me two books from Toronto Title "A true diary of the Worst Farmer." the other, "The Yellow
Horde."
Sent quilt blocks to June & Kathleen
Saturday 17th Dec 1921
Clouds gathering for a storm. I dont remember what
the men done. I wrote letter to Kathleen and
Irene. I hope the weather grows no colder.

15
Sunday 18 Dec 1921
I never saw so wild a day on the
river; all day the wind howls and shrieks.
The river is one white sheet of rollers
from the south. The old house trembles
this day, rain is falling barrel running
over. Voltie and Joe looking after the boats
the punt, skiff & motor, The wind blew
the machine shed away tore the smoke
house to pieces and upset the toilet. Oh it
was a day of wind; but we had three square
meals. Voltie went from the lower boat house
to look after R’s hens.
Monday 19 Dec 1921
A bright brilliant sunlight all day
succeeded yesterday’s storms. The mail
came quite early no letters. I sent a letter
to Kathleen. Emma done a big wash
cleaned floors brought in and folded the
clothes. Such a pile of them! then Ironed in
the evening while her bread is baking. Emma
work work all day. Rachel knitting all
day. Men out doors. Dont know what
they do: Irene raising Kane all day climb
climb climb got spanked for it. does no
good climbs in chairs onto cabinet, sewing machine
on top of the table and watching every chance
to climb the stairs and break her neck. A
bright rosy sunset.

16
Tuesday 20th Dec 1921
Half cloudy, half sun bright day. Joe & Voltie
away to fix Rachel’s old hen house which took
a terrible twist Sunday and came near blowing
away. Rachel knitting. After breakfast dishes washed,
crocheting going on. Irene climbing as usual; she is
bound to kill herself some day. Emma is ironing now
Joe away to Will Gillespies. Sam here to dinner.
[left margin]
{Joe & Ema go down to
W H Woodmans in
Evening heard the boat that
George H Woodman was on
& lost & all hand as washed over.}
Wednesday 21st 1921
A very chilly day. Killed and dressed 21 chickens
and a turkey for market. cooked one for dinner
I write a letter to John. churned and made prints
10 lbs for market. V went to Flynn’s
Rachel knitting for Clarence Woodman & finished
the mittens. Irene 1½ years old this day
no letters from any one. A clear
sun set.
Thuesday 22nd Dec 1921
The coldest night and day and shortest of
any this fall. Up early Voltie drove to the
boat with Joe & Emma, a barrel of apple for Geo
Rattray a few apples and mcKaries for Miriam Burton
A basket of chickens for market a turkey of Lucy Cook
#1 oil cans. Rachel knitting. Voltie went to
Flynns and back before dinner. Shot a duck
Sam here awhile I write to Watson
Weather cold but warm within doors, my fingers
cramp V drove to dock for Joe and Emma
a very pleasant evening follows.

17
Friday 23rd Dec 1921
Front windows clear of frost. cloudy &
snow. not very cold. Rachel knitting.
Cleary came with the mail this day. I sent
W.F. Watson a letter. E and E sent some
Christimas toys to Maggie’s kids Emma made
a rag doll for Irene Edith carried a top
to Ida Kiel. Voltie working in shop. Cold in morning
A meeting at School house this Evening to
select a candidate for councilman for the foot
of the Island. Ellery wants the job so he
will be elected of course. Nearly 11 pm when
V and Joe come-home.
{Cards Cards. E Essford, Higgins, Nelly Beard
A book from Louse a dollar Bill
from Grace a Card from Meriam
Bruton, Dante & Kate}
Saturday 24th Dec 1921.
A cold day. Thick frost of every window
Cloudy and snowing. Rachel knitting
Voltie is hulling corn. Last thursday
Voltie shot a wild duck. Emma hung
it in Veranda where it froze. Now they
are picking the feathers off from the duck in
kitchen.
{Voltie & Joe moved
the stove from the
Kitchen to the dining
room}
Sunday 25 Dec 1921
Sunday and Christmas a very happy
day after breakfast baby Irene passed around
the christmas gifts. Joe and Emma gave me
a warm pair of wool lined shoes a box
of letter paper and a cloth for an apron
I gave Emma a book Edith gave me a book
and cloth for an apron & gave Rachel cloth
for an apron Emma gave R cloth for an apron

18
Edith gave Voltie a book and a pair of slippers
Joe & E gave V a new shirt, fancy A roasted
duck for dinner with dressing and the usual
accompaniments besides assorted nuts candies oranges
The table presented a very fine appearance and
all went merrily. Only some over ate. Madeline
came in evening bringing her new beau Ambrose
Niles Howad and Samy made a short call
After supper Joe played violin and they danced
till bed time 11 O’clock p.m. Voltie Emma Edith
Madeline and Ambrose even wee Irene was
carried around as a partner. at last our guests are
gone the house is quiet and Christmas is over till
another year walks around
Monday 26 Dec 1921
Joe not very well, which gave Voltie the opportunity
of doing the day’s chores alone Every thing is
quiet and peaceful. I forgot what Voltie done
Joe recovered towards night and helped to do the chores
A book from Lori
Tueday 27
a very good day only cloudy. Cant very well
remember what ocurred this day for I’ve not written
in this diary for a whole lot only I know Emma &
Joe went to the village dance drove in
buggy a long cold drive and rough roads
Madaline who is working for Arch Berry went
with Ambrose Niles so goes The world

19
Wednesday 28 Dec 1921
Em and Joe came at 5 am. went to bed Voltie
called Joe at 11 a.m. Emma arose a little later
A lot of cards came this day I dont
remember that I received a letter but cards without
Short or measures Joe went to his dad’s to
get ground a hog grist Volkie working in
shop making axe handels for Kesler
Thursday 29 Dec 1921
A bad cold day. I write letters Rachel
knits preparing for butchering tomorrow crocheting
and so the day passes along and is soon
gone
Friday 30 Dec 1921
A cold day. Kiel Sam Joe and Voltie butchering
our winter pork Joe says it is the biggest pig
he Ever helped butcher weighs aobut 500 . V shot a
duck. Joe shot 5 Samy one. 7 wild ducks
to be picked and roasted. more cards a package
of newspapers and cards and letters from
W. F. Watson V gave me the dollar that Kester
gave him for Axe handles I write a letter to
Louise finish one to Grace but miss the mail
and send nothing
Satuday 31 Dec
The last day of the year. never agan can
date a letter 1921. Cold bad weather Emma
picks ducks, bakes and does the wash
Saturdays work. Friday, secured cards papers
and W [T] papers from Watson V cutting up
pork; it weighed 520 Enough to last all winter

20
Sunday 1st Jan 1922
a cold day. Wind West roasted three ducks
for dinner. Rachel again ate too much. had
to take pills. No one here till evening. Then
Howard came and stayed till 10 pm.
Monday 2nd Jan 1921
Sometimes I think Ill never write in
this diary again. but still I keep on and
on sometimes forgetting it. or neglecting it
for 3 more days. I send away a few
kept over letters. one I send to Grace the
last one Ive written. very cold. the river
is closing. I guess this is the day I rec’d a
letter from Will. and Wednesday I rec’d
letter from Herb Dignem a letter from
Charlotte Gibson a letter from Watson
together with a lot of W.I. papers from
her Mrs Wesley Watson. she has a very powerful
name Geraldine Ubrica Oh! and he mentions
her name too many times in his letter suppose
he thinks it is beautiful Well monday
I sent a long letter to Mrs Brooks Spokane
and Wednesday to Louise Dixon.
Yestderday we had visitors Liggie Kiel
and her man Bill and her two babes
they were here to dinner and supper
and staid here nearly 11 am playing
cards while little Ida walked aound the the floor
Voltie carried Ida home Bill carried
[left margin]
The baby Lizzie carried the baby
Foot passengers have been crossing the river nearly all the
week on ice Kehoe Kiel Rattray

21
Friday 6 Jan 1922
I dont know much about this day I neglect the
diary to write letter but I know the mail came with
Mr White as a deputy mail man for Cleary
is off again in Philadelphia visiting his
his colored friends and relatives Edith
knows it all as usual cant tell her any thing
Saturday 7 Jan 1922
Another fine day. Sun shining out brisk mostly
all day a rosy sunset. The usual Saturday
work going on baking pies cakes fried cales
basting and roasting meat V working in
shop and drawing out fertilizer Samy here
awhile then came again in Evening Voltie, Joe SAmy
and Emma played cards and had a glad uproarious time
Sunday 8 Jan 1922
A beautiful day. Eidth trying to
make a raise of some one for a visitor
but failed. So went to church. Brought
the preacher home with her to dinner
Poor man, he has a tough time among the
church members. He after wheeling all the
way from the village over rough roads
on wheels and he has a bad cold. To
preach to only five Edith, Lizzy Horn
Geo Niles and his wife & Son Howard. Mr
Charleswoth didn’t stay long after dinner, but drove back
to the village. Ema & Joe went Evening visiting to their
brother Sam’s Voltie sat up and read Longfellow Howard
[left margin]
Came for an Evening visit & all is well

22
Monday 9th Jan 1922
A very fine day. Ice getting poor again
not even walking nor skating along the shore
I received a letter from Grace. A good long
letter and glad to get it, but am sorry Bert Snyder
is down and out again President no more
of the Candy factory but I am more sorry for
Maude than Bert. Dont understand the trouble
cant see why Bert cant keep a position in business
a little while any way. Never can lett what
our men Voltie & Joe are doing outside.
Tuesday 10 Jan 1922
Another very find day Emma done big washing and hangs them on the line after dinner we
were surprised by
the unexpected arrival of visitors the two Mrs Barry
Mrs Geo & Mr Albert. They{} came walking all the way
from their home I was glad to see them and we all had
a very social time Mrs Goe gave Me Mrs Sagers address
which I lost almost immediately. A strange disapearence
we treated them to apples they staid to supper. Joe’s White Plymouth rooster died from
indigestion
Wednesday 11 Jan 1922
A cloudy morning. A storm gathering Joe and
Emma brought in the clothes from the line
Voltie made mistake in the time and
got out of bed an hour Earlier than usual
all up to breakfast this morning
taking about Murphys and [OKrums] dogs killing

23
Gotts sheep. We were expecting Evening visitors
The storm prevented them coming They were
Madaline and the upper Teacher. I suppose
the rest of the little clicque would have come too
It is a regular winter storm with N.E. wind
I send two letters one to Charlotte and
one the W F W but received none this day
Emma received 3 one each from Wills
family of women Jen Lottie and Lena
None from Louise Emma Ironed the clothes
Will Dixon 63 years old this day and I
am 25 years older than Will.
Thursday 12th Jan 1922
The sun shining bright and clear this day
with a beautiful fall of snow on the ground
R up stairs writing to some of Wills family
Joe & Volty working in shop Samy come and
they all went to the cellar for cider I guess
Emma is sewing on machine. Visitors this
Evening Alden Madaline a Miss Agnes
Brown, upper School teacher and Howard
Niles. They played cards & danced Volty
treated them to apples and pop corn
Ema gave them Tea cake and cheese
nearly 12 when they went home.

24
Friday 13th Jan 1922
Snow falling all night. No bare ground this
morning. The landscape beautifully white
Every where. Voltie and Joe working in shop
on Jack’s sleigh Emma cleaned floors, and
sewed on machine. After dinner Joe hitched
Pansy to Cutter and Emma drove to W H W’s
with her quilt blocks Mrs W helped her set the
quilt together. Joe went down in evening and
took Emma and himself to Kehoes for an
Evening visit Howard called here to tell us
his Aunt Nancy Niles died Thursday night.
{Sent a letter to Charlotte
Sent a letter to Herbert [Degnun]}
Saturday 14th Jan 1922
A very fine day Voltie walks across the ice
to the funera. Nancy Niles burned to day the
funeral at the home. A woman preached the
sermon. She is the local preacher at St Lawrence
V came early accompanied by Sheridon Maloney
Sheridan intended going to the village no way
to go so staid all night Samy here in Evening

25
Monday 16th Jan 1922
Sent no letters nor received any for
there was no mail. Road are out of
order or something is wrong
Sheridan walked home across the ice
after breakfast Emma sewing. men out working
in shop fixing J. N. old sleigh
Weather not very cold but looks
like a storm. Kehoe brought the mail
from the village. A letter for me from
Edith Dixon Watertown
Tuesday 17th Jan 1922
Not very cold but freezing Enought to
keep the ice in the river Roy Ruth
and Annie and Jack Niles start for
Delaware on account of Isadore []
got a heart complaint. Edith went down
to Roys to visit and stay with Maggie
Cloudy weather. Didn’t sit up very
late. Emma slept down staris to
look after the baby
{Emma done big
washing and brought
them in– fold them ready for
ironing moped the floors}
Wednesday 18 Jan 1922
A cloudy stormy day V and Joe worked
in shop Mail came this day bringing
me a letter from John and one from Murl
A party at Charley Gillespie this Evening
Emma and Joe went. Joe furnished
the music.

26
Thursday 19 Jan 1922
Joe and Ema came at 3 am. Thid day Mrs [Charley G]
drove here bringing Lurena and Grace [Michea]
for a visit she was accompanied by little Gordon
She brought a dozen of Eggs that Emma had
bought from her The day passed beautifuly with
by all those happy joyous young voices, Howard
came in the evening. Voltie a dish pan full of
corn. Smyth brought Edith home
Friday 20th Jan 1922
A very fine day. Towards night Voltie Joe
drives over to Doras with Pansy hitched before
the cutter carrying Emma Lucena and Grace
and herself going to stay all night. Joe is going
from there to the village and Kingston
Howard here for milk. Once more Edith gets the
meals
Satureday 21 Jan 1922
A very fine day. Skating good. A hockey game
at the village. Jim Kehoe goes up on the
ice in his automobile carrying 5 himself
Kiel, Samy Woodman Everett and Florence
Woodman Edith does the Saturday work. Howard
came for milk.

27
Sunday 22nd Jan 1922.
No one here. Looked for Ema and Joe They
they didn’t come. staid over to Doras
while Little and Joe wanted to go to the
hockey match Monday 23 Jan 1922
No one here to help
Volkie do any chore. Niles family go
milk here every day for their Tea
Tuesday 23 Jan 1922
A very good day. We were very
happy to see Joe and Emma come
home this day. All{} happy and merry
and the sun shines clear in door
and out door and the sun sets bright
and easy and I write write all day
Wednesday 24
A very fine day The mail came to day
bringing me a letter from Belle and on
from Louise. Volkie and Joe working
in shop all day. I am glad to get
those two letters which tell us we
are still remembered by dear ones
far away

28
Thursday 26
A bright winter day Joe and Samy drawing
baled hay to Kinston started late came late
I wrote a long letter to Belle which I intended
Enclosing in a letter to Grace, but I dropped it on the floor and baby Irene tore it in pieces
and it was swept up and burnt with the rest
of the sweepings which I very much regret
The sun sets bright and the west is a bright rose color.
[left margin]
Emma washed a big
wash this day and hung them
all on the line. I helped
bring the clothes from the the line
Joe was late comng home
from Kingston
Friday 27th Jan 1922
A bright cold day baby Irene and I both had
a beth in the work tub. Joe away again with baled
hay to Kingston. I send Belle a letter A
hockey match on the ice by Kehoes V. went
down to look on. stood around with no over
coat on caught cold causing his right arm to
bother him more than usual Howard here
they played cards in evening. Rachel not very
well all to much corn (hulled) a noisy card
time and a very cold night follows a beautiful
rosy sunset.
Saturday 28 Jan 1922
A very cold morning and cloudy looks like a storm. I made a mistake this morning
by asking Joey a question. An idle thoughtfull
Thoughtless question which never will occur again
tho it pulled the wool from my Eyes the
answer did, "never more", "never more"
Quoth the Raven never more" Lois
[V] here for milk V and Joe Emptying the

29
coal bags into the cellar. I watched them through
my bedroom window. Voltie phoned John
O’Brien to shoe the mares. John said
he would.
Sunday 29 Jan 1922
Joe drives across the river to
Geo Niles. Staying all night
A new good day. ice good for
traveling. teams come and go
any where the ice. Before Joe and
went across, Will Niles and
John Burnham drove in
John here. some what "for" loud
and noisy and profane staid to supper
and cider. Samy Woodman
here also & staid to supper. John
and Will went aay directly after
supper.
Monday June 30 1922
came home leaving Ema over there
oe and Voltie worked in shop
all day. and so the day
drags along. Edith gets the meals
and washes dishes
Tuesday 3rd 1922 Jan
A bright beautiful day Voltie
with Joes horse and cutter drives
across the river. Samy out to burnt
Rock and bargained for a post

30
acres of timber land, to get fence post two hundred
he wants for fencing. Stops at Uncle George
Niles and brings Ema home. she came bright
happy and joyous glad to get home. Joe done the chores.
{ a very heavy fog till dinner time}
Wednesday 1st Feb 1922
A very fine day Voltie drives to Kinston with
a load of baled hay for Joe. While Joe drives
up on the ice too with his rig to the Hockey match
at the village. Our boys lose the game. The benefit
is for young Crawford another member of the Hockey
Society who is sick and needy. We were honored
by a visit or call from Sheridan Maloney
and Will Niles. William is very much a
"Geraman" this. I suppose he thought he might
be more so before he went from here on cider
but no one here to treat them.
{I sent a letter to Hattie
by Joe Voltie renewed
his subscription for the
daily Whig this day
Daily}
Thursday 2nd Feb 1922
A soft warm day, cloudy and rained hard in
the night a great crack in the ice by Niles
Point. The ice covered with water. Voltie was
going to town with a load of baled hay
for himself & had Howard and John there
engaged to go but didnt go We and Joe
went and began at the old house taking
it all to pieces and will bring it home and
build a new one George McDonald
drove in here to Engage to duild a barn
{ I began a letter to
Louise. George Barry
drove to Kinston with key}

31
Friday 3rd Feb 1922
Arose Early intending to go to Kingston with
hay but weather not favorable tho much
colder. Anna up all around
a sort of consultation about going up
At last they al stay home.
Saturday 4th Feb ’22
Another very fair day; dont go to
Kingston this day V rang Geo [Barns]
to ask about going to Kingston
Geo has one load more Mrs B
answered & said she has discourages
Geo’ from going. Mopping, baking
and a general clean up for Sunday
Also a miserable row between
Rachel of the first part and Edith
of the second part. This is the
third horrid blow out. Bill Kiel
here to dinner.
Sunday 5 Feb 1922
A soft warm day Will Niles walked
over said there is lots of water on
the ice. Howard drove over to
Doras for Lucina and brought her
here. Howard, Sam, Clarence, Woodson
I sat behind the stove and have
my dinner Table full Enough with
me. The usual sunday Evening performance,
singing, piano, violin loud talking
[left margin]
Lois Niles here Voltie and Joe tearing down the old house

32
Monday 6th Feb 1922
A bit of a freeze up. V thinks he can go
tomorrow to Kingston. Sam here and they work
at the Engine all day Sam here to dinner & supper
Emma Lucena go up to visit Lizzie. Come home
to supper. The snow is falling thick and fast.
snow flakes big as 25 cts adn many much
bigger. As the day advances the weather
grows colder. Edith Maloney at Charley Gilespies
Wanting Ema, Joe and Lucena to come there for
supper. They dont go. Sam and Howard here
till nearly 11 p.m.
Tuesday 7 Feb 1922
V arose Earlly and is away to K on the ice
loaded with hay. C Gillespie Gott Samy
Woodman and himself they came quite Early
Voltie bought a map of Kingston. A poor
affair; A little better than nothing, price, 10
Howard went up with a load for Joe. This last
Lucena goes home. when Charley G driver up on
the ice with Edith M, and her Kid Audra. Edith
over here visiting her mother Dora a whole week.
Howard and Sam go to the villiage dance
I sent a letter to Louise Dixon. Cleary home
from visiting and on the mail route gain

33
Thursday 8th Feb 1922
Arose Early again; one more load of baled
hay takes Voltie to Kingston. Had to
ring Samy up. He is sleeping late after
his last nights dance at the villiage
He is going to drive up with Voltie we
lend his horses old Sandy and lick. For they
are sold to a man in K. Joe done the
Chores. They came home quite late 7 o’clock
Samy staid in town. A man accompanied
him home. A South American from Argentina
a Spanish mother & father indian. Was engaged to
work for Mary Burk Berry. After supper
he walked there, found the door closed
and fastened. Wouldn’t let him in. He
talked with them through the window
standing on the outside. They said they
had changed their mind about
his working for them. So he came back
here and staid. A benefit party at
John Murphys for the Catholic Priest
cards and dancing. Joe and Emma
attend the party.
Friday 10 Feb
A very good morning Emma &
Joe came home at 2 o’clock A M. After
breakfast Mr Alex Oree starts out walking
to Kingston. Ema and Joe come
down stairs about 11 a m. V and J

34
worked a little while there after dinner. Joe and Ema
away again over to Doras going from there to the villiage
from there to Pittsburg from there back to Kingston
and from there to a show to night and from
there I don’t know where. Voltie says he is
discouraged. no one to help him get wood; don’t know where to get it any way. V is not very
well
besides his right arm is bad. Joe & Ema
up stairs fixing to go away. Now they are gone.
Saturday 11th Feb 1922
Saturday morning is rainy. No one here (excepting)
John Jr here for milk, and Sam here working
at the engine; a sad gloomy day Edith baked
cakes for Sunday and mops floors and
gets the meals. Voltie does the chores shop
work and goes to the lower place for wood
and so the day passes away. Sam stays
to supper and plays checkers with Voltie.
Sunday 12th Feb 1922
A beautiful fall of snow on the ground
this morning. The sun shining. Clearly. A cloudy
day cold and gloomy V doing all the chores
alone Joe and Emma not home yet since Friday
alone all day We read and doze and
I read Tolstoys visit to the United States
and his oppinion of the people and the
country. Then I read "Grahams" "Inside Russia"
and his ideas of that great miserable land both accounts
written in 1917. Tolstoy
considers Russia much
superior by way of literature.
He says there are not books stores
nor Newspapers in the States. I supposed
Tolstoy was a very intelegent man.

35
Monday 13th Feb 1922
A bright beautiful mornning. A fine fall
of mon last night which will make
good sleighing. Mr Goodfriend Nelly had
drove in here this morning. He brought
Same home from Howe Island
The mail came Early. I sent no letters
Joe and Ema came about
noon. Joe helped V a little while
in afternoon. Howard and Sam
in Evening. Card playing as
usual. I receive a letter from
Muriel and a package of Pecans
I am writing Muriel when
the letter and package arrived
all the way from Georgia
Tuesday 14 Feb 1922
A dark cloudy morning. Threaten
now and rain. Joe helps V
awhile Then E & J begin to talk
about going to the villiage dance
I dont think Joe cares to go but
Ema persuades him to go and he
go. Howard drives over for Lucena
in cutter. then Leaving Lucena here Joe
home for the car and they all go up
on the ice in car. I send by Joe for
a letter tablet and a letter to mail to
Muriel

36
Wednesday Morning 15 Feb 1922
A cloudy morning. Joe Ema & Lucena came
home at 3 o’clock a.m. R tearing around
again in the night saying someone had "stole" her
money. She frequently disturbs Voltie by her
hollering and yelling in her sleep.
In afternoon Joe, Ema, Lucena & Howard went
to the Hockey match at the villiage came home
after supper Howard went to Doras with Lucena
after supper
Thursday 16 Feb 1922
Cloudy day all at home. Joe drew sand
Ema washed lines full. In Evening Howard
Sam Alden Madaline and Agnes Brown
Here in Evening till late and extremely
cold night. They brought home the books
they had borrowed and borowed 3 more
"Maid of old New York" The shuttle" "Thankful’s
inheritance".
{A [] Gen peddlar
here selling Shady goods
old cast off army
supplys}
Friday 17 Feb 1922
A very cold day. Voltie and Joe drew
Sand again this day. No one here this
Evening I write a letter to Kathleen in
answer to one from. didnt get much more
only papers V and Joe mark in shop
a little while done all the chores etc
And so the days pass along each
day following the other in quick sucession
which brings the Spring and day morn
and out Life one day shorter all night

37
Saturday 18th Feb 1922
A bright cold day. Edith gets
the meals Emma beking and preparing
for Sunday. Dont know who may
come. V and J getting wood working
in shop. Didnt expect Evening
visitors but Bill Kiel and Lizzie
came bringing their two Kids
came to Supper and cards.
So after supper and dishes washed
The "deck was cleared for action"
(meaning the table) so they gathered
around the table Each man with
his pipe tobacco and matches. Then
the shuffling and whang banging
commenced. quite orderly and
quiet at first some talking till soon
they all grows very interested in the
game and became very vociferous &
noisy and now while Lizzie
is shuffling the cards with lightning
rappidity Each one of the male
players scratch a match and
four bright flames are applied to
their noses, (or very near their noses)
and the smoke from 4 pipes
Encircles their heads like a cloud and
rises to the ceiling then they apply
themselves once again to cards game

38
more noisy this time. then silence for a whole
minute broken by a ripple of laughter followed
by an explosion, a roar of laughter a tremendous
roar accompanied by whack, whack, bang,
bang, then more quietness and more card shuffling
another firing up of pipes, then more explosions
and roars, more table pounding, and so
it goes on from ½ past seven o’clock, ½ past 8
½ past 9, and sometimes ½ past 10 p.m. This
card performance is a very frequent occurrence in
this house. The residence of J.D. Bamford.
Sunday 19th February 1922
A beautiful day, sun bright and warm.
Visitors came. First Mr and Mrs John Burnham
our first acquaintance with her. Next arrival
was Will Sr, Bill Jr and Lena. A young scotsman
came with the Burnhams. A musical visit and
very glad to see Will and Bill and Lena.
But after all where there is so many and all
talking at once, cant enjoy the short visit
not nearly as well as if the Burnhams had
staid home and came some other time.
Will Niles came but so many here he wouldn’t
come in. At 4 p.m. they all went and
a solemn stillness reigns. We go to
bed early. The present of a book from Lottie
and a very beautiful calendar. I send a
book to Lottie "The worst family" "to Somme" "The Marquess."

39
Monday 20th Feb 1922
A grand thunder storm last night with brilliant
lightning and a heavy downpour of
rain which attracted the attention of
our baby for she stood by the window and
danced with delight every time it thundered
and lightened & hollered more, more.
Ground nearly bare this morning.
Lots of water every where Emma does
some patching Voltie and Joe butcher
12 chickens for market. Edith picks
off the hen pin feathers. V puts up a grist of
wheat for flour etc.
Teusday 21 Feb 1922
A very good morning. Voltie went
to Kingston with chickens (12) and got $10.35¢
for them and flour. Will Niles came
over and shot old Ben horse and miled
up on cider. Voltie came just at
dark. He met Dixek Halliday. Dixek
paid him $30.00 dollars for concrete work.
At sunset a storm was gathering in
the south west. But Joe and Emma drove
to the villiage to a show amateur theatre.
Will N started to go home but didn’t go
because he couldn’t. He got as far
as the river then lay down. Joe couldn’t
get him up. V managed to after he came home
but he wouldn’t come in the house.

40
Wednesday 22nd Feb 1922
Awoke this morning to see snow every where and
a snow storm raging can’t see to the river
also found Lucina here. She and Howard
came down on the ice behind Joe, stormed so she
stopped here and staid all night. Will N can’t
walk home through the raging storm. Snow storm
lasting all day. Voltie and Joe out working at
the engine. Howard came in the evening &
the card playing goes on as usual, but not
quite so fierce and noisy. only one roar
which startled me from a quiet sleep as I sat in
my chair. Snow still falling when we all
went to bed.
Thursday 23 Feb 1922
Not very cold. Not very cloudy. Sun comes
peeping out from behind the clouds as they roll
away. Will Niles walked across the ice this
morning. Then Joe nd Emma drove across
to Niles. Emma going to visit Stella for the
day while Joe drives out beyond the corners
to buy wood. Soon after dinner begins to
rain and pours for two hours. Joe and
Ema come home just at dark.
Friday Feb 24 1922
Not a very bad day but colder. Joe drove
across for wood. Emma putting up a
lunch for Joe and Will Niles is going to
help him cut the wood. They came back
at sundown with a big load.
A letter from Grace.

41
I received a letter from Muriel.
They are coming home in the spring,
home from Georgia. We had visitors
we have visitors Mr & Mrs Eves and
their three youngest children
from Simcoe Island. They left 2
oldest at home. I suppose they
were disappointed to find Joe
away. I was glad V was here.
Will after supper Joe and Emma
drove to Wm H Woodman’s where they
found the Kiels, Kehoes, Sam Woodman,
and his family, each family with 3
kids each excepting Kiels have only
two. There were 11 youngones in all!
Saturday 25th Feb 1922
Voltie and Joe both drove away o’er
the ice and away back of the corners
for wood. I sent Charley Dixon
a letter by Voltie as he is going to
stop at the corners. We were
surprised to see Will & Lena and
young Vanalstynes drive in here
with a big Ford automobile. Will
brought for Voltie 3 kinds of seed beans
and pop corn. I’m glad they came to dinner.
Will came for Rachel. She couldn’t go, nothing
to wear. Will has got to come again.
[left margin]
Voltie and Joe came before sundown
with a big load of wood. Evening visitors were
John Murray and Howard Niles. Played
cards

42
Sunday 26 Feb 1922
A soft warm cloudy day. Kiel came for milk.
Howard called for a few minutes. The atmosphere
domestic is very mild this morning pleasantly
congenial. I think I’ll write a letter to Grace.
Joe and Emma went to Will McDonalds
visiting came home at evening time. Sylvia
sent me 9 Montreal Heralds and Weekly times.
Howard here in evening.
Monday 27th February 1922
A dim cloudy day. V drove across the river going
for fence posts expecting to see Will Niles who
promised to go with him but Will not home
so he drove to the corners, bought candy
and came home in time for his dinner.
After dinner, Will N drove here in cutter
didnt come in but staid out in the shop
with Voltie nearly all p.m. then drove
home. He told V he would help him tomorrow.
After dinner Joe and Emma drove to the
Capt Vincent to a military dance. Howard
came and went with them. I sent a
letter to Grace by Joe. V goes to bed
early. R wanting to ring Mrs Jordon
again about how long the foot of a sock
should be. I objected and O O O—
Geo Gillespie hurt by falling off a load
of hay had the doctor from the villiage

43
Tuesday 28 Feb 1922
Voltie up early this mornng &
after doing the chores drove away
over the river again going for cedar
fence posts. Will N is going
with him. Joe and Emma came home
at or after daylight. after awhile
they go to sleep awhile get up about
noon. Voltie came home about 5
p.m. with a big load of fence posts.
Wednesday 1st of March 1922
Up early again this morning & after
chores done Voltie and Joe both drive
away over the ice and away to
the burnt Rock for another load
of fence posts. Each carrying a box of
dinner. Will Niles and Edgar Niles
drove there with their own team. Edgar
drove here at 5 p.m. with a load
of poles. V and Joe came later.
Emma done big washing of
white clothes and hung them all on
the line: cold day and cloudy.
Sam came and turned out the cows.
I didn’t get a letter. I expected one
from Grace.

44
Thursday 2nd March 1922
A cold cloudy morning. Snow fell in the
night. No bare ground this morning a wilderness
of snow every where, fence posts, branch of every tree,
wood pile, and Voltie has driven away up the
river to Kingston to report to the custom
officers concerning the fence posts wh
Friday 3 March 1922
Uncle Voltie & Joe gone after wood, quite
a lot colder than yesterday. We all have
colds. Grandma not well but is reading
her book Lottie sent. Sam & Evertt here
to see Joe. The men came at 4 oclock.
Grandma went to bed early.
Saturday 4 March, 1922
Grandma didn’t get up for breakfasat but
I help her get dressed after & she came
out & set in her chair for a while.
Then I helped her back to bed.
She will get up again.
Grandma passes away
half past nine. Never to be with us again.

45

46

47

48
132 Bowers Avenue Watertown N.Y.
Nitrate
Mrs W. Sager
Port Simpson
General Hospital
B.C.

49

dollar \$ ct.
Nov 3rd 1921 Voltie paid John.

50

00

"

Voltie paid Anglin on acct.

15

00

10

Voltie paid Weir & Rattray for apples

12

75

24

Paid Hunter and Stevenson, on furnace 62

98

24

Paid McFarland for hog feed

11

50

Dec 8th

Telephone bill

2

24

""

Crawford

11

00

""

Anglin

58

60

""

Taxes

72

50

""

Clothing

49

65

" 16th

paid bank note

50

00

""

Oculist for testing sight

4

00

""

2 Books from Toronto

2

00

""

McGlynn for beef

""

George Whitmarsh for beef
Paid Volt for drawing hay

4

00

Gave Rachel on the hay

113

10

Jan 11th

50
125 tobac
25 stamp
25 razor
35 potum
20 screws
____
220
335 plish
____
2,55
40 c flakes
10
____
305

51

This document would not be possible without the editorial contributions of the following
people:
Marilyn, Marissa Little, Ann Hopkinson, Eileen, Cassandra Colman, Bev Doucette, Queen’s
University Archives, Iris Black, and Vivian Zhang