Minetta “Nettie” Walton (1869-1950)
1883 Part 2
Transcribed by Rural Diary Archive volunteers

{Front diary black leather}
R/
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Sat Aug 18 / 83
Nov 15/83

(2) Saturday Aug 18th.. 83.
Annie went alone to Oakville for to get her teeth filled. It rained I just got my stoop
cleaned when Mr Mitchel came after some apples for the Baptist picnic on the flats. Pa
went fishing it rained Mrs Wright was up. Maria & I were in the garden all the afternoon
Fridia Morris came after some machine oil Joe went down to the Post Office he seen E.W.
& E.W. told Joe to tell me not to stay to church for he wanted to see me. E.M. went to the
station for Elizabeth coming from Hamilton.
Sunday 19th.. 1893. I slept till eight O'clock We (us girls) were in the parlor playing &
singing when Jennie Wild came. the servant drove her because it was to wet to

walk. We went to Sunday School but there were no organ for no one had brought it down
from Hixon's after the Garden party. Jennie Ida Ella McC Mrs Bray & I were the only one's
that were in our Class. E.W. came in late there were not many there. We came out of
Sunday School & we were talking to E.W. Jennie asked him right out loud if he was coming
up to night & he put it off & said perhaps it might rain. E.W. asked me if I would like to see
Mr Coats & I said yes so Jennie got him to stay. Ida took Edith Irene home & we waited till
she came back so Jennie & Ida went up to the front seat & Ella & I went in with Sarah.
When we were singing Mr Coats offered a hymn

book to them so Ida had to go up to the pulpit & get it she could hardly walk. When after
Church Will Spears said to me not to make E.W. sick to night. Jennie stayed all night at our
place. Jennie told her ma that she wanted to see E.W. before he went away. Sarah & I

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were out milking when Grant & Max came Max came out to the barn before we came in. I
had Maria's wrapper on me. I got washed & fixed then I went out on the varendia & spoke
to them. I was not out long before E.W. came up the lane with his two Cousins Melville
& Laurence. Clarence is going to be a professor he is Just a lovely player. They all went
in the parlor two by two but Grant & I. I wanted Grant to come
in two but he would not unless I told him my dream. he said he would go home & he started.
I went & coaxed him back but it took a long time. Clarence was playing fast pieces &
everything. Grant promised that he would either sent or bring me one of his pictures. for he
had mine. I was talking to Melville at the stove Sarah was showing Clarence the cards she
showed him my card which E.W. sent me one my birthday. Jennie Max Ida & E.W. were all
out on the varendia they called me to come out so I came then I went back & got Melville.
But, before they went in the parlor Jennie & I went & got some smoke in apots for the
mosquitoes so I went to move the smoke E.W. came
after me & we went in the Summer house we talk there he gave me his picture that he got
in Oakville on Friday. He felt so bad that he was going away then m Max & all went down to
the lane for a walk alfter we came back Ma & Jennie & Ida were in the buggy & I let the
horse loose so they went down the lane for a drive. We then talked a longtime on the stoop
& we left Annie & Grant in the parlor alone Jennie said for all to talk for not any to listen to
another one's talking she ment E.W. & mine. Jennie put a rose in the top of Max hat. E.W.
gave me the alphabet in the parlor & he showed me how to use it. Sarah took Melville in the
garden & gave him some flowers they when they
came back they thought they would go so Grant got the buggy turned around & they
wanted me to get in but I wouldn't so they got Annie in Max Jennie Ida went E.W. & me
Sarah had the two Brothers behind. We all shook hand & said got by. Our folks were away &
they got home before the fellows went away so they thought they would see the parting
but they did not for we were at the lane gate. It was just a lovely night. It was moonlight.
When E.W. & I were going down the lane going home he through his cane up in the Apple
tree I forgot to get it coming back. Before we got half way down the lane why Max & Grant
was going over the bridge. Monday 20th.. August 1883. Washing

Jennie stayed till near noon. I got Jennie & Ida to help me fixing hair that Annie cut of on
Sunday Ida platted it in two brades then I got a lid & box & they made it in a circle & Jennie

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sewed it in the lid they put then my Jem in the centre it look sweet. They glued my Jem &
put a flower of paper on the back of the lid to cover the stitches. I was just a going out to
get potatoes for dinner when E.W. came to bid the folks good bye. I met him in the garden
when I was coming back with the potatoes Sarah picked him a boquet then I washed my
self & went around Jennie Ida & I went around in the garden & I gave him the box he tought
that was lovely. He bid got bye in the house
then he came out doors & he wanted me to go down the lane with him so I went he could
hardly say any thing he felt so bad. He {symbols: o{dark centre} YE oo**t. {three triple
colons} oct.Jy**}. Then he went he had to put his hands to his eyes. When I got back to the
house Jennie was going so Ida Sarah & I went up to the gate with her. Annie Started to
school Monday. Before Ida or Jennie had there Breakfast I went down to pick up some
apples & I found his cane In the afternoon We got cleaned up Ma Annie Sarah & I we went
to the Baptist picnic. I did not enjoy my self very much Zillah & Ella were there. When we
got home Ada Bray & Hattie Horning were for tea. I did not have any tea down on the flats.
Ida & I went to Temperance meeting. Arthur Broderick had hattie Pickard

in the seat sitting with her. After it was all over we came home Ada & Ella came a piece with
us. Arthur Broderick got cut out. The two Maria's went over to Ingledews & Lizzie in the
buggy when they came back E.M. drove the girls home. I forgot to tell about Sunday night
about going to bed. Jennie Ida & I slept part of the night in one bed then I got up & went in
another bed by myself near morning. Tuesday 21th..83. Sarah E.M. & I were picking apples
all most all day. Ida Edie went to Church hills for package Annie gave Sarah a music lesson.
Wednesday Aug 22th.. Little Maria's birthday E.M. Maria & Lizzie went to Oakville with
apples. I was cutting the grass with the lawn moor. Ada McC.

up for honey. I cleaned the windows & pa shop with windows also. I had a sleep after dinner.
Arvilla & Agnetta Curtis Sarah had to dress her self & go & talk to them. It was a ferful hot
day. Thursday 23th.. Extracting honey. Sarah & I went over to Williams we met Herbert near
the Bridge Mrs Williams was away but we stayed a little while then we were over to
Ingledews We seen the Lucases pictures. When we got to Ingledews Edith was away but
when she came home Mrs Ingledew got tea while Edith entertained us then after tea Mrs

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Ingledew took us for a row. We went out in the Lake up to Curtises pear then I blowed
through my hand like a steam boat. We were singing we got home about 9

O'clock. Friday 24th.. Maria L. & Elizabeth went to Toronto on boats pa drove them down.
Sarah Washed some things. When Annie came home for her dinner she brought Sarah a
letter from Melville & me a letter from E.W. We went out to the Bh. & read them I let Sarah &
Annie both read mine & Sarah let me read hers
Saturday 25th.. We got nearly through our work then I went to Bronte Post office got a card
stating that The Blandina would leave Hamilton at 4.38 for our point. We got through our
work Maria & I milked for Sarah & Annie went up to Thompsons. When we were milking we
heard the toot We hurried & went down we stayed on her till

eight O'clock fetched Jennie {?} up with us to stay all night Annie & Sarah came down
from Thompsons after dark they stayed there all night. she is just a lovely boat. Sunday
26th.. Sarah Annie came up in the morning they brought Gordon. Jennie went back to boat.
Mabel came up before we were up We all went to Sunday School Agnetta had her winter
dress & her new chain & locket on. I went partially to sleep in Sunday School. After Sunday
School I went down to the boat & Stayed till after dark. I got acquainted with the
inginearman Debbie Pickard Ell Mc. Ida & I were singing & I was playing. After Church there
was a lot of folks come down to see it. We had Jane B

& Mr & Mrs McDuffy, before Church. to see it. Annie & I stayed for church tea with Jennie
Mabel & man after tea folks came from our place down I minded Gordon for a while We
asked Emma if there were any body at our place she said a man & his neifew with him but
when Annie & I were playing Max & Ida Jennie & Sarah came down then I went with Jennie
on deck Max started to go home & he said he wanted to speak to me so I went he said for
me to tell Ernest to write to him I said I would so he asked Jennie & I if he could walk up to
corner with us we said certainly so we went but Jennie got with the girls & I had Max I
walked locked arms with him he came up to our corner

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then he said good night to us Jennie pretended that she mad so she said good Evening Mr
Curtis etc. Jennie Anderson Watson girl came up for her night dress with Annie but they
came away on head of the rest of us. Sarah gave Jennie a card which Melville sent up, for us
to write one name on it. After us girls came home Sarah & I went back again with Jennie
then we stayed & talked then we came home for good that night. Monday 27th.. Maria
went down to Toronto on Watson's boat they all went but me I was left to keep house. I got
on top of the house & sat there till they came back from the boat. It was ferful rough. Ida & I
went over to Jennie in the afternoon. When we were

going we met them on the road they were just coming home. We stayed for tea but we did
not intend it to. We had a splendid time Mandia had to go to the Station for Mrs Wild so
Jennie came over to the road for a piece with us We stayed there for a long time they we
thought were not coming so we went to the bottom of the hill with Jennie then we talked
then we heard the train we thought so we ran up the hill & waited for the phaton so we
were counting the stars till it come Will Spears & a lot more who went down on Watson's
boat came home on train so we came down the road with Will to our corner Will was telling
us all about the voyage & c. He aske me about (E.W.)

Tuesday 28th..Aug. 83. Sarah & I wash washed all but flannels it rained Annie brought me a
letter home from E.W. I read it after dinner then we finished washing about three O'clock. I
then answered E.W. letter.
Wednesday 29.. Ma & I washing side meet I went & got two little Canarie's & gave them to
Jennie to raise. We just got dinner over when Edith Thompson came I had the dished &
floor swept. Sarah was ironing E.M. white shirt for him to take away with him to Toronto on
Boat (Blandina) Sarah left it & went to get ready to go with Edith over to Brays. Ma went
over to Fosters I went & has a sleep. After tea Ma & E.M. went down to Johnston's Ida
waited till

the work done then I get ready & went I posted my letter then we went to Johnstons I
bought a book for to keep account of my letter I write to E.W. We then came back & we

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went to McCauley's & stayed an hour then Maggie & Nettie Bouncil came in I played & sang
for them we forgot our everything Ella & Ida came a piece with them us.
Thursday 30th.. {writing appears to have been written by someone else} We washed
flannels & prints. Jennie & her grandma came before dinner they waited till the mail came
in. Mrs. Granny tailor Joyce was over in afternoon I ironed my dress rapper. Annie, after tea
she brought Maggie McCauley & Nettie Bouncil up, they stayed the rest of the evening then
Delia came up we were playing Samie Hayseed cards they went about ten O'clock Joe went
up to the

station for to meet Maria L coming from Toronto.
Friday 31th.. Maria persevering plums. Ida & I was picking green gages. I swept upstairs & I
was cleaning my windows when Jennie Wild came. She stayed for tea Mrs Carrigan came
before dinner she stayed for dinner & for tea also. We had ripe Tomatoes for tea & gages.
Us girls had such a laughing spell at tea. We had a splendid time in afternoon Jennie had
Curtises down to her place Thursday after noon. I gathered in the onion's in afternoon After
tea Sarah Annie & I went a piece with Jennie I went to the style Annie went to Biggs corner
Sarah & Ida went to the log with her. The girls seen Max & another man go to out Brodericks
way in buggy. He waved his had or something.

Maria & Ma went to Bronte with Mrs Carrigan. I was left all alone till Annie came back then
Ida & I went & Met Maria L. down the road she had Johnstons children with her coming
home for company.
Saturday 1st ..September 1883. Ada & Lila Johnstons were up for milk. Will Lucas was here
when we were eating Breakfast. Annie & Merven Gilliam & I were picking plums I fell & the
lader fell & Broke & did not her{hurt} myself. Ma & Sarah picking ha{r}vest apples finishing
them. I got through my work they I went to the barn & I tramped wheat for about 15 min. I
was busy till dark. Annie & Sarah went to Bronte in evening. Sunday 2nd.. Sept 1883. Ma &
pa went to Palermo re-opening

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of the church Mrs Foster came over to say she did not care about a going. Joe went off &
pa had to get the horses up, himself. We all got ready to go to Sud School but only Annie & I
got {ther?} went on first & started but her heel of her boot came off. Sarah did not care
about going but Sarah went to Church with Maria L. I came home from Snd School. I met
Sara & Maria coming to church & I went home when I got to the lane gate. I seen our horses
go Flying down the roade so I went to corner to stop them from going away. & I seen pa so I
thought he would go & get the halter & get them ! but Henery Watson & Arthur Biggs came
along & I got them to go get the bridles Arthur did & we got them in after considerable talk.
It was after three when

I got home pa & ma had just got there dinner over they had brought Laura Jones down with
them & Ida & Laura had gone for a walk. There were no other persons here in the Eve it
seemed so lonely without E.W. being here. Laura slept up stair with Ida & I slept alone in E.M.
bed.
Monday 3rd...83. we churned we were playing with Rover we got the work all done so Ida &
Laura & I went over to Brays & Sarah took my place in tramping oats for me. we went
before dinner & did not come back till four O'clock. We just had spendid time there were
only Ada & Emma home We played croquet after dinner were we in pla parlor Laura
learning a part {illegible} from Ada Bray then we went upstairs in a hurrie in Lumber room
we had

splendid time Emma lent me a novel (Edith Leyle). After we came home I had to change my
dress I went & pick hops then I milked had my supper & carried some water to cellery
picked some plums to eat. Annie & Sarah getting ready to go to concert Brays came but
they only had there buggy so Annie drove our buggy following them up. I reading novel after
they went. Sarah got letter from Melville Lucas to day. Tuesday 4th .. 83. Sept. Sarah &
Maria L. walked. I tramped oats till nearly noon. I had novel reading it when I was resting. We
hurried & went up to meet the one O'49 train which we expected Laura to go home on. She
did not go. I got gloves & took them to Bronte I just got back when it rained & Minnie
Sherdian

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& Laura came in buggy they stayed for an hour then they went away. We were playing with
apples. E.W. is boarding at Mrs Jones in London. Wednesday 5th.. Ma went to Bronte with
Annie to School Ma went in to Mrs McCraneys she has got a little girl. Ma bought some
tomatoes & some glass gems. I bought some {manorice} to put it on the cellery. I sewing in
afternoon Mrs Mckay & Ella came up. I was footing some stockings Ella Mckay came to the
door & was listening to what I was saying then Miss English came with Annie from School
then Ada Johnston came with a baby & Eddie I washed the wheels covered buggy for pa
expects to go away to Toronto with it. In the afternoon I did it, Miss English stayed for tea

& so did Johnstons also Ella McCauley came when I was eating my tea. Ida went a piece
with her after dark. Mr Johnston came to see pa about councill I reading novel. Thursday
6th.. pa oiling the buggy. Maria L. & Sarah washing some flannels. I was picking plums when
the limb I was hanging hold on & the one I stood on, broke but I did not get hurt. We picked
on till dinnertime Ethbert Gilliam & strange boy came after corn. There is going to be
baptism on Sunday 9th.. Agnes Polic came past where Joe & Marven was howing so Joe
went & was talking to her in the bushes. Laura went home Wednesday. This is a piece which
laura sang
The prettiest girl that ever I see. Was sucking cider through a straw I said to her what

is your name. said she to me tis Susan Jane With chin to chin & jaw to jaw we both sucked
cider through a straw. When at last the straw did slip We both sucked cider through her lip.
Friday 7th.. 83. I did my Saturdays work nearly all. I washed the mud off the lane gate. I got
my hair washed in afternoon.
Saturday 8th.. 1883. Annie & Sarah came home in morning they went over to Ingeldews on
friday after School. Ida went down to Bronte she did not get back till dark. Edith Ingeldew
Viola Cunnyworth & Jennie Cunnyworth came in the Eve we had splendid time we were
dancing ("Old Dan Tucker") ("I stick my little foot in") etc & my legs were awful sore & stiff
the next morning

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pa was angry at ma for staying away so long for he was getting ready to go to to Toronto on
monday. Sunday 9th..1883. rather cold had a frost. Annie & I went out hunting things to eat
in garden. we brought in some corn & we toasted it before we went to Sunday School. The
sunday School did not go untill after Baptisms & Ida & I started to go down but we only got
down to Dorlands corner where it was all over with. Max was in his buggy with Will Joyce.
Will Spears was also there with his horse & buggy. I did not stay to church but Annie
Broderick & Ida came home we met two fellows in buggy they stopped & asked which was
the way to Bronte we

we at Adam's corner Annie came in & seen our garden they she went home Alfred Afton &
Mia Tracy came after tea We had a fire in the parlor so we talked till tea I gave Alfred his silk
hankerchief which I had for so long. We had a very pleasant evening of it. I said to him I
wonder if Ernest had got your letter yet & he wanted to know how I knew it. Then Sarah told
him we were over there & Herbert told us they had got a letter for E.W. from Nelson. Alf said
that he did not write any but that some girls on the Street told him they would write to E.W.
but he said he did not know that E.W. was going away so soon. Alf said that he would give
25 cts to

see that letter. Mia Tracy is a little bit taller than Alf. Monday 18th.. 1883. Pa & Ma getting
ready to go to Scarboro. Mrs Bray come for corn then Mrs Write came when Mrs Bray was
in the lane also Ada McCauley while they were talking then Mrs Hubbard came. Our folks
went about Ten O'clock. Joe went over to Wilds to thrash. Us girls & Maven Gilliam here
alone. Annie brought me a letter from E.W. to day. Tuesday 11th Sept. 83. We washing. Ida
had to get dinner but we all had to help her for she was so slow. Cramer's children came up
after newspapers in afternoon. I reading a (Novel) Sarah & Annie went to revival meeting
Maria L. up stairs writing Joe Ida &

I were alone downstairs We went & got some corn we roasted it then Joe got dressed up
in girls clothes & went to Scare the girls Ida & I went to Nelson's bridge & we waited till they
came at lane gate. When we got home Joe gave a ferful wrap at the 'front door' & we went
in but he ran away. Wednesday 12th.. I did not get down stairs till breakfast was ready I
went to bed after dinner Sarah got on the roof & knocked at the windows till one come

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open then she got in, & teased me till she got tired then she went away & I slept till four
O'clock I got up washed some windows then Emily Triller came for tea before we got done.
Jane Bray came we just got dishes done when Mary & Ida (Curtis) came

we told them that the girls had gone to practise so Max drove her done then he came back
& stayed with us girls till they came home Max said that he had heard from E.W. that E.W.
told him for to take of his little (dove) When they came home Jane Bray came with them
she stayed all night Emily & Ida got Archie Spears to drive them home, so Max stayed till
Eleven O'clock then he went. Max wrote to Jennie & she answered it. Tuesday 11 E.W. sent
me a little book of the ten scenes of London. Thursday 13th..83. It rained Jane stayed two
night write together Annie & Sarah went to revival meetings at night, Sarah wrote to M
Lucas.

Friday 14th.. M L. went up to station to see Miss Jarvis she was going to N. York but she was
not at the station M L. went to Bronte with Jane got a card from Sarah J saying that she was
not going. I wrote a letter to E.W. in afternoon Ida & I went in Evening to post it I had to buy
an envolope & write on it down there I made such ferful scribbling. we went to Church M.L.
came down alone after we did. Jane came home with us. Saturday 15th.. Mr Thompson
brought Edith down before we had our breakfast Annie & Sarah got ready he drove them
up to Station for they were going to Exhibition school children's day. I had all Sarah's work
& my own to do I was sick & I

had the head ache but I had all the scrubbing to do Ida went to Post in morning got letter
for Sarah from Annie in Toronto she read it. Jane went after Ida got home M.L. was baking &
I a dusting I did not get through till 3 in afternoon Ada & Eddie & Alymer came up for Apples
at night Ida & I went up to Station to meet the girls we ran but it was only a freight we had
to wait for a long time Villa & Lib Henderson were there they came back with us Annie
bought me pair of corsets Sarah got here picture taken. Ida & Sarah got a pair of gloves
Annie bought some cream candies etc. Edith Thompson came & stayed all night. They got
there supper after they came home. friday night 14th .. Sep. 83. Joe took the

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large cows away to Biggs, Sunday 16th.. it was late before we got up. We went to S S School
E.B. L. went to School with us but she would not go in she went on home. We came out &
Ida & Ellie McC were over to the corner talking so I thought that I would go back We all went
back & stayed for church Deb came out after us she went down street she met a fellow &
then she came back with him to Church. Ella Mckay has a young fellow with here on Sunday
she wanted to go for a row so she asked Mr Ingledew if she could have his boat he said no
but they went after all. We sat in with Mrs Bray, Jane Bumby was down Harris drove them
down. After we got home we were just eating supper

when Max came he drove, Sarah milked I was in parlor playing when he came. Joe & him
went & put out his horse. we sat talking till Annie & Sarah came in then Ida brought a lamp
in we had a fine talk. It rained ferful hard so he did not go home till after 9 Monday 17th.. we
slept late we had to churn a big one we picked apples crab & one basket of plums Joe & I
went over to the road with them but we were two late. Jack Mc had gone after dinner the
girls making marble cake Joe make Ida our stand for upstairs. Annie got a card for pa from
W.G.W. on boat. I was up in crab tree & Joe was throwing crabs up at me. Miss English

was here she stayed for tea her M L. S & A went to church. Ida & I were left all alone. I was
laying on the lounge when they came home Max Curtis came home with Sarah & Annie.
Tuesday 18th.. Sept. we washed just us five girls & Joe home at moon the boat Blandina
came E.M. Mabel & Gordon came up for dinner we had our dinner all over with, S. I. & M.L.
went down to boat in afternoon Watson came up then Mrs Mc.. then E. M. Mrs Mc. & W.G.
went down to boat. Emma the two Marias then Annie Sarah & Jennie came up S & A read
Emma's diary threw the Jennie & I went down to get tea ready. They did not wait for me as
I got down before they had there tea. Sarah & Ida came down after we had our hats on to
go to Church so we all

went to Church we met Will Spears on top of hill he just came from thrashing we went to
Church Max was there he & Ida (his sister came down walked he sat beside Charlotte Bray
in Church. We all went back to boat & we all slept on it. Will Spears was there when we went
back we played & sang Maggie & Ella McC came down to see the boat. We got the
engineerman to sing us a song (The same old game) Will stayed till 10 then he went out of

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the window in the engine house the fellow he shoved him right out on his head. When we
got our beds fixed, I got out on the window & {symbols} ^XX,XXt. We Slept pretty
comfortable but rather cold Wednesday 19th.. Sept. The crowd gather then the folks came
down from our place E.M. g drove dolly down to boat they were

trying to trim the boat when Dolly broke the holter & plunged backwards broke the shaves
in two they do got her up & she is quite tamed since. We were up at Johnstons the wa boat
away up the lake. blew pretty rough. When we got home had all the work to do. Ida & I went
out in afternoon & picked up potatoes Sarah would not go out then she went to meet
{Anse} Mrs J P Loveking came on two train Ada Churchill came up on train with her We had
tea Sa An did dishes then they went to Church we were in the parlor I & I went to bed at 8.
Grant, Max & Will Spears was at Church Max & had to go up to station for Mrs Curtis & I. but
they did not come so Max came to Church with his buggy Max & Sarah went for a drive.
Annie & Grant
{Blank page}
{Blank page}

Sarah got home first. Will Spears & Max both got a letter this same day. Will said his was so
long that he had not time to read it before he came to church. Grant said join it on the
fence.
Thursday 20th.. M L. went to Bronte her & Mrs Lovekin. I cleaned windows & {I scoured} my
quilt on Bible; Sardeah ironing got cleaned up, playing on violin Ada Biggs & Annie at
Robinsons came in afternoon for honey for Maud's cold. Two Maria's & Mrs Lovekin went
over to Hixon's stayed a little while came back for tea just got tea over when Rover barked
& Elizabeth Williams came Joe's sister she came from Toronto on an express train & she
walked from Oakville. Two Maria's Ida & Miss Lovekin went to

church Eliza Annie & I & S were in parlor singing Emily Triller came home with them stayed
all night Mrs Lovekin such a great talkert. Friday 21th..Sep: Maria Lovekin got up early her &
Mrs Lopvekin & they went to Toronto on first train. Annie went got ready for school & went

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a piece with Emily. Joe had to go for to thrash at Biggs Eliza went up to concession gate
talked to him quite a time then she came back & we were around in garden Sarah & her
went to Bronte told Jack Mc... to call. E.M. went over & took Joe's place at thrashing. Joe
went up to station with her. Bedford Johnston came up fetched the baby & carriage about
dinnertime. We were picking up potatoes in
afternoon J S. came in before Ida & I did. We set so long at tea M.W. & E.M. describing there
Journey. A & S went Church M.W. reading us her diary of her journey. Saturday 22th..83. We
have lots of work to do. I changed the upstairs around swept & dusted it. We were all busy
& could be. I was doing my stoop in afternoon & I had to leave it & go out & pick up
potatoes. I was out alone a while then Ida came out. Sarah did not come out. We were just
coming in from field when pa hollowed for me so Joe went. ma did not come with him she
waited & they went up to station for her & M.L. I just got cleaned up when I got downstairs
Mandia Hixon & her mother were here she brought a whole lot of flowers & so Ida & her & S
& M.W. made a boquet for the church she brought over

vaces so Annie & Sar. went down to church with her. McCauley's girls came up with them
for to lock the church. Ma looking splendid when she came home. I went down in the hall to
speak to Sar. & I was not only half dressed I had nothing on my feet & I was just going in
parlor when I seen Max. I Screamed & ran he laughed. He drove down on horseback. {He?}
went before Hixon's. Sunday 23th..83 Sept Quartely meeting they all went to church but Ida
& I Joe he was away butternuting. So we got them off then we got potatoes & Tomatoes &
cooked them for dinner. Then Joe came home & we got our dinner & got dressed & we
went down to see the Baptism we walk pretty fast we hollowed for Ella Mc & she put her
hat on & came with us we nearly ran but we just got

there in time to she her in the water. We then came away when we got home they were
eating it we had Minnie Sherdian & Mrs & Miss Curts from Palermo. Ma gave us a scolding
about leaving the dinner to spoil. After dinner Ella Mckay came she stayed all the afternoon
till church time We were out in the garden in the field. Then I came in A read to us I went
sleep got up milked A S Ida & I went first to church then two Maria's & E.M. & Ella Mckay
came in Mr Harris preached. There was a dog came in church made us laugh. After we were
home upstairs we listen through the stove pipe here pa & E.M. talking about us. We came

13

home Sarah was in parlor playing she thought she would make believe that some fellow was
there. She said she wished E.W. would pop in. Sunday was a very queer day to me. Monday
24th..

Raining E M went to Hamilton on 2 train Sarah went to Bronte with Annie's dinner she got a
letter for me from E.W. The girls sewing Adams thrashing Joe away down Bronte Mrs Foster
called in morning I got Ida to sew lace on {illegible} the lace ma brought me a pretty collar.
Mr Bray in afternoon talking to pa.
Tuesday Sep 25th.. Picking up pears & Apples. Joe went up to station for take some
baskets of crab apples E.M. came down on train. We were weighing our selves. I way 123 lbs
Ma 126 Ida 102. Sarah 110. M L. 111 M W 116 Joe 145½ lbs. EM went over to Colton's barn where
they were thrashing & told them to come they came in afternoon. Ida & I picking up apples
all afternoon Mrs Hubbard came then Mr Ferguson called I was pretty tired

Sarah had to go Bronte twice for nails then she went over to tell thrashers come she & Ann
were going over to William's so S. went around by Hixon's she seen Will Spears (talking). I
had so much to do all little chores to do for they stayed till meeting time then they came
over to Church. Mr & Mrs Broderick called last night went to Church. We had table set for
thrashing men. We had three men over night. Wednesday 26th... Sept. They got up early
Thrashing today I washed pa socks out. Mop the kitchen floor off etc. I helped wait on table
we had 14 men besides pa & all us girls & ma. They went over to Fosters after dinner I help
pa clean up barn & brought cows over to drink Expect Villa Wilson. Thursday 27th..83
Washed I got a bad cold laid down in afternoon Sarah Jarvis came she

drove herself down stayed from 3 to 5 we had tea early. Ida & I went to Bronte for things
came to let the other folks go to church. We seen Ella & Ada they were going to open the
church. But Wednesday 26 Evening Max came after Villa Wilson went to Church. Sarah &
Ida went also & ma to. Max came I was sitting in parlor Annie playing & I was nearly sleep. Id
was not cleaned up but I just had to sit there for E.M. brought him down to us. Friday 28th..
We churned Mrs McCauley came taying for dinner Boys went down to Bronte lot & getting
apples. Thursday Evening we us three girls sitting & talking in sitting room we put a mustard

14

blister on ma back for she was were poorly, but better today. Friday noon when Ida & I
were in Bronte we met Bob Joyce & so we said Good evening but he never answered

he was all dressed up. he was going up to Bumby's with Will Spears they were going to have
a kind of party. Friday after dinner Pa & I cleaned the Wood shed he made coal bin Sarah
& Annie went to Ingledews Jennie Wild came up to from Toronto on Evening train. Saturday
29th Sep. Jennie Wild Mandia & Birdie Courtney drove stayed for a little while Sarah &
Annie went over to Jennie's in afternoon. Ida, Joe, & I were picking up potatoes in afternoon.
Mr Broderick here at night. It rained S & A stayed all night. Sunday 30th..83 S & A came
home in morning M L. & I were sleeping when they came home I did not go to S School for I
had a cold I made a fire in parlor got cleaned up & wrote a letter to E.W. got it nearly wrote
over in my book when they came home from Church Jennie & Birdie came up
with then Idi Belyea came through the lane with EM. We were in the parlor I showing them
pictures we were talking about Max for we expected them Just when we were talking Max &
Grant knocked we thought it was A & S. so we said come in & stay out so Ida went to the
door & there it was Max & Grant we had a very pleasant Evening of it about 10 O'clock the
Maria's came home from Church & they came to door asked Grant he knew where his horse
was sitting took the lantern & went away tramping through the Orchard then they found it
away among the bushes. It was quite an excitement. They stayed about another hour we
were singing, throwing tidy's around the room then Max asked Grant if he was ready to go &
Max waited for Grant to say for he did not like to say for Grant brought him. Us four girls
slept in one bed

feet to feet we talked till One O'clock we kicked & told yarns. Then Jennie wanted to know if
hall door locks so it wasn't we heard a ferful noise outside so I got up & lock it; then the
noise stopped. Monday 1 October 83. We slept very good though got up rater late Ida &
girls went to Bronte E.M. went to Milton Jane Bray was over for yeast. I went out & picked
up potatoes for ½ hour then Ida & I went over to Jennie's at 11 we had fine time we were out
in Orchard talking then we went to dinner then we went up in hay mow stayed they ate
apples & talked. Then we went to down to the old mill Jennie & I went around Hubbard's
looked in the windows the window's blinds were down but one so went we were looking in,

15

some fellow looked out of the bedroom door so we came away then they blew the horn for
the girls to get ready to

go to Toronto. We started Amandia went with him as us we took a shortcut so when we got
out by Douglas we ran & ran up to Morris then the train moved off. We came back Jennie &
Ida went in to Douglas Will Spears came along on horse back. I asked him what day best to
go to Hamilton fair he said Thursday. So Ida & I came home Mr & Mrs Ferguson were here
for tea I finished letter to E.W. Tuesday 2 October Jennie Birthday 15 It rained sewing
carpet rags. I went over to corner with my letter, folks did not know I went. I went over with
Eliza gosmeron. Joe after dinner went to Bronte to get Rover home (the dog) he tided some
tins on Rover tail he came spinning home we sewing carpets rags all after dinner Maria L
went down to Mckays Ma was down they on Monday Jennie Wild is

going to have a party at her place tonight about a dozen girls. A & Ida went down to see
Johnie Livingston he is sick, Bessie Moor was here in afternoon. E.M. came home from
courting Milton. Sarah writing letter to Eliza. I did not see Jack Mc.. go up so I gave Henery
Bird my letter to post he said he did not see him up at station. Wednesday 3rd 83 Oct
Picking up potatoes E.M. cutting clover Sarah & I cutting we picked up all that were dug.
then we came in Sarah did not go but I went & finished for the day. We were out milking we
had just started when I seen & heard the barn gate click there was Mack coming with his
horse & buggy. I soon got up & went & hid in the barn he came in & found me had brought
Dan Bray from station so Max put his horse in stable & we got to house before him. Ida had
slept from 3 to {7} in afternoon

then I went to bed when she up Dan had his supper her Max E.M. & Dan came in kitchen
Max stayed quite awhile. I went to bed early for I expected to hamilton on morning train.
Thursday 4th.. I wanted to go but I couldn't I cryed M. W. & A.W. went to Oakville they went
early. We expected the boat down Sarah went & taught School for Annie while she was
gone I picked pears We did churning etc. M.W. bought two dressed for Annie one for Sarah
one for me & a new hat for Annie. Joe, E.M. S & I picking up potatoes finished the Blandina
in before we got their Wallis wife came down with Emma & Gordon Watson engineman Mr
Mc pilotman. Ida & I got ready for the boat did not stay lone Just about 2 hrs. The boys

16

picking apples in lot so they Just got back from there so they drove us down. Annie had Ida
boots on so Ida walked

down & went to Schoolhouse & got them M L E M Ida & I went up on it to Hamilton we had
tea when we were going nearly threw the canal We had spyglass on board. I was looking all
the way up the shore we had a very pleasant trip It was dark when we got in had quite a
time getting over the old Emigrant wharf when we got up to cannon St Emma sent Ida & I
over to dairy for butter. We called in for to see Clara king stayed awhile then went up to
Napier St M L went back with Sarah to stay up all night Emma went out to find Mabel so she
found Jennie so Jennie stayed all night. I slept with her Ida slept with Mabel. Friday 5th..
After breakfast Emma got ready to go on boat about half past eleven we went out to go up
to fair Jennie went to Station to go home Mabel went with h us. We got in 3 for 25 cts.

Seen everything seen races very clear day. We got home at 4. got reasted then we got tea
for Charlie then we went out again Jennie & I went down to see boat of I got 50 cts from
E.M. we went up & I bought some pearl beeds & pair of gloves, beads 24 Gloves 20, then I
got 2 spool of thread. Saturday 6th.. We got up & got Charleys breakfast had quite a time
getting fire started we did the work up then we had a bath & a wash in kitchen then we
went downtown Ida got her Gems taken the man told her if she did not like these for her to
come back Monday & he would take them over We went in & I bought a shell pocket book
for Annie. Sunday 7th.. We got up early late had breakfast about 11 stayed in all day till
Evening we got dinner about ½ 3 then Ida & Mabel when we were were getting ready we
seen two funerals one after another there were some fellows second yard from Watson's

they were flirting on their hand but we just looking out window Luie Mc.. was amongst them
One fellow Just looked like Charlie Ribble his name was Reed I was looking at him & he said
see, see, her looking. Then he said (Cast thou thine eyes southward.) They were thowing
rotten potatoes acrossed at each other & he said (Peace be still) I stayed & watched them
so Ida & Mabel went out for a walk. So when I went downstairs Wallis was there Then we got
tea at 7 then we went out for a walk up to Zion Church we intended to go in but we were to
late so we went out for a walk Wallis wanted us to go down to his place but Mabel would
not go so Ida went and Mabel & I went down on King & Jane st we promenaded till nine

17

O'clock then we went home. Ida had Just got home. I finished counting horses gray & so did
Ida. Monday 8th.. Ida & Mabel got

breakfast alone. I was fixing my corsets Mabel worked splendind till Sunday night then she
got ugly tempered & so she would not do anything her & Ida went down to Gem gallery Ida
got some more gems taken 28 for 25 cts very good also. I got dinner all alone. Then we
were Just agoing up to Mountain when we met Emma up st at gate she did not like us to go
but we went had lot of fun we went up Queen st step to & we walked all around Asylum
grounds then it started to rain so we slid down railing had splendind time. We went down to
Wallis for tea. Tuesday 9th.. I got ready & went down to Wallis for dinner Mabel & I Mabel
had an awful ball because her mother said she could not go so Ida stayed instead. Then we
had the little express wagon to take the fruit with which Sarah did for Emma when she was
away on boat we took a load

up Mabel drew the wagon Sarah carred basket & I carried gem had quite a time getting the
wagon up the steps of out of cellar kitchen. It was a ferful hot day so Ida went back with us
we brought up the remainder. Ida & I wrote out a receit for Elderberrie wine for Emma & M.
W. When we came back Emma & Ida went down town Mabel helped me pack my clothes
Mabel came down to Depot with me I got on quite a time before train went. When I got off
at Bronte station Mrs Gilliam Mrs Skeleton Mrs Becca & Emma Gilliam came down on same
train on same car I was on we walked got a ride down from station with Jack Mc.. I got
home just started to eat supper Annie gave me a letter from E.W. a great long one. I washed
dishes I was.ent quite done when a buggy came I went out the way I was
it was Grant (all alone in his glory) He asked me if I would go for a drive. I went it was a
lovely night we went down to McCraney's corner then we turned up by Smiths & came
upon Middleroad then came home we got caught in rain. I asked him if he would have an
umberella & he said he dident know so when I got in house the folks told me to tell him that
E.M. was goinging away to Milton & that he would want it. So I had to excuse it the best way
I knew how. Annie & Sarah had Marlow Shaw to drive them home. I was up nearly in bed & I
came down & we all went out to WC. Grant was first one that I drove or shook hands with
after counting 100 gray hrs Sarah had the shake of Max hand & then a drive but I had a
drive & then a shake of hand. Minnie Maud Carry Southerland is in Bronte.

18

Wednesday 10th.. 83. E M went over to Brays got Jane & went to Milton show Sarah
cheered him going along the concession. Mrs Douglas here brought wild grapes. Ada McC
up for mik we churned I did housework I cleaned stoves in kitchen & in Parlor we picked
peaches had some for tea. Two Maria's went to Church. Pa getting ready for to go to
Toronto and below for shooting. Joe went over to Biggs for to go with them to fair in Milton
he just got home now. Thursday 11th.. Oct. Picking apples we were on ladders I started to
walk down the back of the Ladder without any stepts being there so I fell and blacked my
thigh & my eye. Annie sent Willie Pickard up with telegram from Hamilton stating to meet
train Ma was to Tea Bronte she came running home Maria took up carpet in dining room she
was going to paint but put it off. It Lizzie & Emma Walton

from Toronto Emma just got home from Manitoba she the Journey did her no good she was
worse so her Ma took her over to Buffalo Doctor so they called at our place on there return.
E.M. took our horse & went up to station for here for she could not come down in the
omnibus she is very bad & weak. We did not pick in afternoon I slept in roken chair Emma
resting on sofa. I wrote a card to Ida so Sarah & I went to meeting & I posted it Max was
down to Post Office but I did not speak to him. Ella wanted me to up forward with her so I
went Zillah was out we had a very good meeting. Ada stood up & spoken in meeting so
did Ella. Friday 12th.. I was sick. Thursday I did not sleep very much. I pick as long as I could.
Sarah went to Fosters then to Bronte brought some candies I did not pick in afternoon
Sarah picked a little while I slept for awhile. All folks went to Church Lizzie went also Emma
Sarah Annie & I were talking

& singing & playing to entertain when they came home we sang again then we sat on floor
showing our legs. Saturday 13th.. It rained we churned got threw our work. They Expected
to go home on noon train but it was raining so they did not go. Lizzie told us a byword (Ma
Cooked it.) They got ready to go home on evening train We all had a good wash & then
went to bed. Sunday 14th.. cold. We all went to Sunday School. There were three baptised.
I stayed for Church. There was fellowship meeting. Ella & Ida joined Church on trial. Sarah &
Annie went to Ingledews for tea for it was Willie's birthday. I was only one home of us four

19

Maria W. & I went over to Foster at night. Monday 15th.. picking apples Miss Englis came
Mrs Green came in afternoon Tuesday 16th.. painting

the dining room we picking apples Girls went to prayer meeting & to practise I stayed
home & wrote letter to E.W. it took me till after they came home. Watson came down on
seven train for to go hunting. Sarah came home before the rest Alf Alton drove Sarah home
he was down it was very cold. Wednesday 17th.. I forgot to post my letter for tuesday
evening. Sarah & I tramping clover & I forgot my coat so I went to get it & forgot to post it.
Joe Sarah & I taking up mangols. E M went with Watson. Mrs. Ingledew here after apples.
Amandia Hixson & Miss Ottley here in Evening had nice time. Thursday 18th.. picking
grapes Joe taking up potatoes Mrs Livingston up for vinegar we getting ready for EM to
send fruit down

on Dorlands boat. Friday 19th.. I went to post office E M went down on boat. Joe went
thrashing over to Brodericks. Sarah went over & helped Annie in house. I topping carrots
husking corn picking apples & general chore boy. Rather warn & I had Ma two Maria's out
helping me Ma went away dinner We out husking corn & there was an agent come
so we they ran in. Annie & I went to meet Sarah coming home from Brodericks. Saturday
20th.. Sarah & I husking corn then she went over again to help them. Annie & I husking till
dinner. Jane Bray & her ma then there was Cramers children then Mrs Hubbard then Mattie
Mc Craney & Children M L went away down to Bronte. Sarah & Arthur Broderick came
home

with her. Maria Max came for pears he did not stay 5 minutes. Big Maria making my dress.
Our pig piged 7 little one on Friday noon. Sunday 21st.. Ida Birthday she in Hamilton yet.
cold & windy We went all to S School & church ma did not go she staid home & go kept
fires on. I stayed for church there were a lot out. Curtises & Thompsons. Edith came in in
Sunday School & so did the other girls. D. E. McLean drove them down. he was in Church.
When they were going home Just by the church gate I was coming home & he spoke to me.
Ma had Supper all ready when we got home. We did not wait for the folks but E M Joe ma &
I ate so Mrs Bray & Mrs Foster came in Just called. We were all in parlor singing & playing no

20

person here. Monday 22nd. Picking apples. Maria painting floor on Tuesday Maria &
cleaning stoves & pipes

putting up I scoured the stove stand We put up coal stove in sitting room. I was going to
blacken the pipe off of the coal stove when Mr McLean came Sarah went in room E M went
to door I had to husk corn alone Maria W scrubbing all the floors. D E McLean stayed all
night he thought I & Sarah had changed so. E.M. playing violin. Tuesday 23rd.. McLean
went away with Annie to school, he is going to Toronto to learn to be a ferrier then he is
going back to North West in April. After he went Maria painted floor. Sarah ma & I went out
& picked up apples. Then we went & pick up few little potatoes till dinner. Sarah & I husked
corn till about 4 then I came in got ready & went over to Brays took Mrs Bray plants over &
some grapes I got my tea & I helped wash dishes. Max Curtis was there thrashing. Mrs Bray
Jane Ada & I went

to prayer meeting Max went home from Thrashing & drove Ida down to practise Max slept
while practise was going on We stayed for practise. M. L. A.W. & ma were down. Max mad at
us. we did not speak. Ada & I reading Newspaper in Church. EM in choir. Wednesday 24th..
Washed We finished carrots topping & E.M. drawing in them ma & I pitching them back
then Sarah came & we finished. E.M. drawing mangols I throwing them back. Edith Ingledew
here over night so I was there alone throwing them back. Maria made cake for Annies
birthday & she put my ring in it. Edith got it. Thursday 25th.. finished picking grapes then
Sarah wrote to pa while I threw back mangoles then we both went to help Joe at potatoes
out of pits till dinner Annie did not teach in morning

for she going to Oakville corners in on on she went up to the noon train but she missed it so
E M drove her part way to Oakville of after dinner. We all at potatoes Jane Bray over took M.
L. back with her E. M. & Sarah went over to night for Bray were agoing to take a load to
Oakville. Joe went to Bronte got Annie's birthday present from Ida. Ella Mckay & her ma up
after dark in kitchen. Ma & Maria cleaning grapes for wine. Friday 26th.. Rather rainy us
girls were not out doors. E.M. was lifting cag of grapes & he spraint his back. Maria's & I went
down to teacher meeting but there was no light in Church so we we to McCauleys. We was

21

there a short time when George Williams came after key so we went up to Church but
there was only Mrs Williams Edith Ingledew & us. So we did not talk long so

we closed up. Ella McC working at fish nets. Saturday 27th.. E.M. got redy & went up
Hamilton on train. Joe drove him up Joe went to Blacksmith shop he did not get back till 10.
S. J. & I went out husking corn we were out till near 5. Annie came up on 2 train with Ella &
Frank Thompson. I was blacking my boots so Annie wanted me to go up Station to meet Ida
so I just put on coat & hats & went the way I was we went clear up to Station & coming
back we met Max right on Hixson's hill he was driving going up & we were coming down we
did not speak Sunday 28th.. We have our coal stove going I started it on Saturday night. Ma
& Ellen went to Darkey Church in morning was dissippointed in preacher. They got home
when we were getting ready to go to Sunday School. When we wereng singing my beeds
broke I stayed for church. Ella Annie Broderick & I

sat in Back of Organ. There were a lot out Belyea's Mrs & Emma & Sandy. When we were
coming away Max spoke to folks right beside me but he did not speak to me. I walked up
road with Brays. Davidson is very sick has been so for about weak he is at Pages in bed.
Mandia & Joshuia were over us girls wanted to go to Darkey Church but to dark. Monday
29th.. Raining I fixing my coat my dress & I strung my beads sewed carpet rags in after
noon. Ma & Ellen drove away to get some fish. E.M. drove home when we were at tea. Sarah
rote a letter to Melville we got letter for Ida from Jennie Wild. Tuesday 30th.. Washing Ma
& Ellen drove up to Lillia's Breckon. I had house work to do. Johnston came after beef Ma & I
hitched horse. Sarah E.M. & I were finishing corn in one field & we picked up few apples.
Tom Churchis & Frank Bird after vinegar. Two Maria's & S & A

went to prayer meeting. Teacher's meeting & practise. Wednesday 31th.. S & I picked up all
apples in orchard before dinner. Ellen & M.W. went to Oakville. I made an apron. In Evening
Annie giving Sarah music lesson Grant came Hallow'e'ene night I got dressed & he staid till
after ten S & then S. A. & I went out walking backwards & shut our eyes & pulled a cabbage
then we brought them it & looked at them A & S was crucked & slender. Mine was a bid
head & short. We tried letter in wash dish mine turned up F.G.O.P. we made a baby & put it

22

in Joes bed & put a lot of chairs & tins by door but he came in so sly that they never fell
over. Thursday 1th.. 83. November indoors in morning but up sorting apples in afternoon

Mrs Mckay.. & Ella up Dr Urquhart to see E.M. he seen me also felt my flesh we had concert
at night in our parlor. Friday 2nd.. Nov. Mrs Foster over Ellen & ma went over with her to see
the place. Sarah went out sorting apples & I stayed in & washed. Pa drove Ellen Frank up to
train she went home then he went up to Hilton's to see about cider. We out Husking corn in
afternoon. Saturday 3rd.. Nov 83. up early I made beds before breakfast E.M. drove us three
girls over to Hixon's for butternuts for Ma & M.L. was over friday afternoon & picked up a
bag of nuts so we went & picked up another bag so we got to bags. Sarah & I went husking
corn till after three 3 then we came in went out to

root house then it rain & we did our nights work. The two Marias went to Bronte & to see
Davidson for he is very sick & they got card for me from Ida saying she would be home so
Annie & Sarah went a piece of way to meet her but did not come it raining. Sunday 4th.. I
first up made fire on. We all went S School. We seen Max drive Villia down then he drove
away by himself it was a beautiful day. There wasn't many out but the bride was down &
her sister Kate Blanchard. After Church I walked up road with them Mr & Mrs Ferguson
came for tea & there two children Ettie & Willie We went out to kiss the children & wasn't
Alf & Grant out there & they had been there quite awhile. They came in Alf was in

hurry for he did not put his horse in for it was a colt. They went ½ past 8. Mr & Mrs Foster
here. Alf is coming down at our tea-meeting he said Monday 5th.. Washing Mrs McCauley..
up helping us husk corn. Rebecca Holland selling tickets for concert S. bought one ticket.
Mrs. Douglas here for dinner also. Ella Mckay & her ma up in evening & Watson came in. We
seen Arthur Broderick driving Rebecca up concession he let her out at our corner. Tuesday
6th.. Nov 83. Out husking corn when we came into dinner. Annie had a letter for me it was
from E.W. he is in Cleveland. After dinner went out came in at 4 Mrs Spears here for tea. We
got ready went down to here Mr Ferguson preach Thanksgiving sermon then we went us
three girls over

23

to the darkie concert in Hall We were rather late but it was splendid Will Spears gave us his
seat by Edith Ingledew. They had a singer from Hamilton & also a reader. Then they had a
walk Will Spear & Jonie Ingledew walked Johnie Ingledew got first prize cake Will Spears
walked six time before he got one. There were a lot of good walkers there but the judges
were bad. After walk they had a pretty silver pickled jar for election. They got Edith
Ingledew & Ella Mckay for canidates. Edith Ingledew got it. Will came home with Sarah John
with Annie. No one with me. It was near 12 when we got home. The boys when they went
back they went back in Hall & finished up Will said he was so tired but when he got back
into hall he forgot all about being tired.
Wednesday 7th.. 83. We husked corn with Tom Morrow. Mrs Bray came after ma to go over
to Hixson's Big Maria went over to Joyces. Annie was with her after School in Wilson's Ada
Bray came over to our place for company home with her ma Annie got her tea & then she
went to Bronte with Ada. When they came back I was asleep on sofa & Sarah on Rocking
chair. Thursday 8th.. Thanksgiving day. E.M. drove up to Station for first train Emma & her
pa Mabel Gordon Ida & Luella Loyd a little girl neighbor. They came to spend the day. It was
near noon when got through our work we had duck & chicken for dinner after dinner Annie
Sarah went over to Ingledews got Edith went around begging. Little Maria went down to P.O.
coming back meet Willie Walton & Bob

Wilson at the corner talking to Joe they came from Toronto & got her at 3 on there
bycicles. Mrs Hixon Mandia Jennie & Belle Sage drove in they just came of train they
stayed minute then went. We were to go over to there place in afternoon but did not go for
the fellows were going home at 9.48 train. After supper E M drove Hamilton folks up to
station & I went also We had 18 for tea. I seen Jennie Bell & Mandia at station. Came back
The girls in parlor talking to fellows when John Ingledew & Jim Joyce came to see E.M. I
went in parlor we played Sam Hayseed & Snip snap sno{illegible} Bangdaloram. Then they
went we played 2 game of later in ten minutes. Friday 9th.. 83 S & I sorting apple in Barn.
Ida bagked

Floating I stands for tea for we expected Jennie Wild & Bell Sage for tea. We were nearly
threw when Ida brought them out to Barn. We finished & came in. Ella McCauley was up.
After tea we played games & we were dancing quite a bit. We went for walked down to

24

gate & back. We had splendid time. Mandia & Josh called for them with phateon. Saturday
10th .. Nov. Rainy Ida went up to Hamilton so did Ella Mc.. Cauley. Sarah & I went out husked
a while & McCauley & Tom Morrow but it started to rain & we came in. I after dinner went
to work & cleaned my stoop. Annie took buggy & Edith Ingledew to go round for teameeting. I was busy till after tea. Edith came home with Annie & had tea then they all went
down to Wilson's

but ma pa & I Sunday 11th.. 83 I studied some verses & we all stayed for church. It was a
splendid sermon. Jennie Mandia Bell & Josh there Mr, & Mrs , Ida, Agnetta, Curtis were
down. M.W. & I came up road with Brays & we went over home with them. E.M. & M.L. came
after, it came up such a squall of rain when we were there but when we were coming home
it started to snow. It was 11 when I got in bed.
Monday 12th.. Nov. Snowed, Washing today E.M. went to Hilton for cider I getting cabbages
in came up such a squall of snow I could hardly get to house We all were so busy Sarah
went collecting with Villa Wilson. Mr Williams here before dinner. E.M. & Joe took over
apples & wood for to go drying tomorrow over there. Everyone tired & done out. Everything
on the fly preparing for winter.

M.L. went down to practise before the Temperance meeting in hall expect a good time. Villa
Wilson came up for tea with Sarah. Tuesday 13th.. 83. E.M. two Marias, & Sarah drove over
to William's dry house & I stayed & helped ma with house work I moped floor & then got
ready & went over to Riggs for baking & when I came back I took over to Williams there
dinner. I helped peel apples & then at night Sarah, Ella, & I stayed all night we had splendid
time but Monday night I wrote letter to Ernest & I let ma read his letter but I did not get it
coppied so I got up before daylight & ligt lit the lamp & finished it. I posted it Tuesday.
When we slept over to William's Herbert & George cracked a lot of butter nuts & we had
splendid time. We named {eached}other bedpost I dreamt of E.W. & M.L. & a crowd being
at our place. Tea meeting at

apple by. Wednesday 14th.. 83. We finished apples Joe came after us it was 3 when we got
home. Jane Bray here helping Maria make Sarah's dress for she is going to Hamilton to learn

25

short hand writing. E.M., Jane, M.L.A&.W. went down to practise. Thursday 15th.. 83. I went
over to Joyces with pa coat & my boots to Decker & to purchase in McDraney's. E.M. was
there with wagon so I got drive home. After dinner M.L. & Sarah went down to Church & Joe
& I went around gathering grub. I got nearly froz I let Joye go in houses & I sit in wagon.
When we got around to hall there were a lot there fixing tables for children. I came home
with Joe & got my nights work done & milked then Annie & Sarah came home & we got
ready nearly & two Maria's went first. Just then Ida came in of train she got my hicky made
of blue yarn so I wore it down to tea meeting. Alf came when we were leaving so we went
on head. Everybody nearly was poking at my hicky. We had splendid time. I sat with Alf &
Sarah in Mrs Wrights seat. I ate my tea by Mrs Curtis & Mrs Hixon. I had Will Wise in front of
me staring me in eyes & Darkeys on the other side they made 31$ after it was out they all
went over to hall & got stuff to eat. Alf & S. got home first. I went over to get our lamp in
Church & there were lot of Darkey in there & Bren Pickard. It was ferful cold we came up
road with Riggs. It was 10 when we got home & little after. Will Spears had Lucy there.
{Back cover black leather}

For more information on Minetta “Nettie” Walton, check out the “Meet the Diarists”
section under “Discover” on our website: ruraldiaries.uoguelph.ca

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