A1996.111
Diaries of Mary Ellen Awrey of Erin Township,
1910-1916; typed transcript.

/? ? ? ^///
DIARIES OF MARY ELLEN AWREY

This is the transcription of diaries kept by my
mother when she was a young girl.
She was born on the
family farmin Erin township on September 13,
1893, to
Ellen (Irvin) and Edwin Awrey.
She was named Mary Ellen
but was called Nell.
In later years she was Nellie to her
friends however I never heard my father call her anything
but Nell.
Mother was the fourth child born into the family but
the second child, Annie, having died at age4 two, mother
became the third oldest with her
brother Wilbert (1886)
the oldest and her sister Ethel (1891) .the second oldest.
Three more children were born into the family. Myrtle
(1895), Ivy (cl897) and Clifford who also died in infancy.
My grandfather Edwin Awrey died very suddenly,
within about a week of having taken sick.
I think it was
meningitis, inf lamination of the brain as they called it.
This happened in 1905 when he was 46 years old. Mother was
12 years old and her brother Wilbert 19 years old and able
to take over the running of the farm when their father
died.
My grandmother, widowed and with a family to care
for, probably stayed on the farm until Wilbert was getting
ready to marry in 1912,
From mother’s 1910 diary I discovered that it was
October 17, 1909 when she came to live with her Aunt
Harriet (Irvin) and her husband, Dr. Allan Gibson, in
Hillsburgh,
(she remarked on the first anniversary of the
day). Gibson’s had no children and the feeling in mother’s
diaries is that she was quite like a daughter to them, and
they like a second set of parents to her.
The three diaries here transcribed, were all written
while she lived there with Gibsons in "the Burg".

A FEW NOTES REGARDING HOW TO READ THIS TRANSCRIPTION
Like many diaryists, mother didn’t use proper
sentence construction or punctuation.
You just have to
become accustomed to this style of writing perhaps reading
an entry over again to get the right meaning.
For example
this entry, written without a break, actually contains in
essence, seven sentences:
Beautiful day was at church this A.M. then went with Dr.
for a drive this P.M. Linole Somerville and wife & Kate McM
were here for tea went to church to-night Miss McDonald
spoke after church went for a walk with Mr. Cullen it is a
fine night.
I think "this P.M." belongs with "a drive" and "after
church" goes with Mr. Cullen’s walk and not with "Miss
McDonald spoke".
I have transcribed the diary word for word and so
if you see any funny spelling it is the way she wrote it,
not a typo (I hope I didn’t missed one when proof reading).
Some of her misspellings were consistent, for example she
wrote "to" instead of "too" and that sometimes required a
second look to get the right meaning.
Other mistakes
didn’t make a difference to the meaning such as "no" for
"know", "sow" for "sew", "thouroughly" for "thoroughly",
"slieghing" for "sleighing" and "hurried" for "buried".
She always wrote A.M. for morning and P.M. simply
means afternoon, not usually evening.
Other shortforms
are, most notably, Wilbt. for Wilbert and quite often an
initial for a name that she has either just given or one
that she writes often, such as E. for Ethel or E.H. for
Edgar Huxley, H. for her aunt Harriet and I. for Irvine.
Uncle Allan is always referred to as Dr.
The only other thing that I can think of that could
cause a little confusion, is her reference to "home". This
could mean any number of places, sometimes the farm where
she lived with her parents, sometimes Gibson’s home where
she lived in Hillsburg.
Later on it referred to the place
where her mother moved to in Hillsburg, even though she
never lived there and, if she was away visiting, it refer­
red to the house she was visiting in.
And last of all, if you wonder what day an entry is
for, simply look for the day she went to church and count
forwards or backwards from Sunday.

This is the Edwin Awrey family home in Erin township,
where mother lived with her parents, brother Wilbert
and sisters, Ethel, Myrtle and Ivy. After she went
to live in Hillsburgh, this is where she returned on
most Sundays, until her brother married and her mother
moved into Hillsburgh.
In this picture grandma Awrey is sitting by the porch
with Ethel standing beside her. Wilbert is holding the
horses.

When the diary begins, mother is 16 years old and working
in her uncle's drugstore.
His office was in a room at the
back, so I suppose she had some supervision, however she
must have had the sole responsibility when he was away on a
call which could have been quite often.
- 1910 JULY
11

Worked in store went to McMillians Garden Party with
Kate Mac M. came home with Wm. & Bessie Barbour.
had a good time Run away at the lower end of the
village nobody hurt.

12

Wet day, nothing doing to-night so we closed up and I
came home.

13

Fine day. mother Ethel & Wilbert were in town to-day,
everything going fine, was out for a walk with K.
MacMurchy to-night.

14

Fine day worked in the store went for a walk to-night
with Winnie Mclnnis (Sport).

15

Fine day but very hot things are quiet in the village.
Was out for a walk to-night with J. McFee had good
time.

16

Big thunder storm early this morning. I went to choir
practise to-night. Wilbert came over so I went home
got home about 1 o ’clock.

17

Nice bright day. I came to Hillsburgh this afternoon.
Bruce & Mary McPhail were coming up to-night. I
went to church to-night and went for a drive after­
wards with J. McFee.

18

Nothing doing to-day everything quiet went for a drive
to-night with E. Huxley, having lots of fun.

19

Fine day things are very quiet to-night, wish I had of
had someone to go for a walk with. We closed early
& came home.

20

Looks a little like rain, nobody in town I feel kind of
lonesome to-night, whish some of the folks from home
would come over.

21

Big thunder storm to-night but all over now, there was a
quilting Bee here to-day, the W.F.M.S. Raining so we
came home early. Dan Robinsons had a wee girl today

July 23...Ivy and Myrtle came over to-day for holidays.
Ivy and Myrtle are the two younger sisters In the white
dresses and mother Is at the back In a darker dress.

2.
22

Things were rather quiet to-day expected someone from
home but they never came. I was reading to-day &
went for a drive to-night with B. Barbour.

23

Hot to-day rained a little to-night I went to choir
practise then up to the ice-cream parlor not much
fun. Ivy & Myrtle came over to-day For Holidays.

24

Beautiful morning but blew up rain in afternoon I went
to McLacklans from church had a dandy time Went for
a drive with J. McFee to-night but came up thunder s
so came in early.

25

Cooler to-day Ada Barbour came up to-night and we had a
good laugh Tom N. drove her home last night.

26

Nobody around to-night. I guess everybody went to the
garden party (at Nurces) Lena I. came up to-day. I
got two teeth filled and went over and met the 5
o ’clock train. Lea Gibson came down on it.

27

Got an invitation to a party to-day for to-morrow night
Myrtle and Ivy went home to-night.

28

Fine day, nothing much doing went to the party to-night
had a fine time Ethel stayed here all night. Ha-HaHa- (Stung).

29

Nice day light shower this afternoon. Jack McF. drove
Ethel home to-night Lena and I went to concert in
Erin with A. McFee I acted gooseberry - good time
Wilbert was there.

30

Rained a little this afternoon. Big crowd in town to­
night. I went to choir practise, lots of fun,
stayed in store rest of night. B. Russell walked
home with us.

31

Well here’s the last of July. Aunt H & Lena & I went
home to-day had a swell drive. Went to church to­
night. went for a drive with J. McFee came in early
didn’t want to go very bad (fair time)

y

AUGUST
1

Wash day it rained heavy for a little while this after
noon the men in the village had a fowl supper for
Carl Innes and gave him a sterling silver shaving
set.

Aug 3...Ethel & mother came over for me...
This is grandma Awrey. Born Ellen Irvin, she
married Edwin Awrey in 1885, was widowed at the
age of 38 and remarried about 1915. She is buried
in Coningsby cemetery with her first husband.

3.
2

Fine day Carl left this morning nothing doing Eva McGill
and I started out for a walk to-night then H.
Nodwell came so I had to play gooseberry till we got
home getting to bed early to-night.

3

Ethel & Mother came over for me to-day Im going to have
some holidays. It came up rain E & I were up street
having lots of fun with J. McF. got home save but a
terrible thunder storm to-night.

4

Cleared off to-day a lot cooler Sargents barn was struck
with lightning last night. Ethel & I went to
Ospringe to-night. D. Barclay came down shortly
after we got home.

5

Went to the Berry patch. Mary & Janetta came out got
home one o ’clock. Had a sporty time. I had a big
sleep in afternoon went to bed early Ethel was
pretty sleepy.

6

Cold and cloudy all day seems like fall we were not doing
much to-day Wilbert & I went to Hillsburg to-night I
went to choir practise with B. Russell. Big crowd
in town to-night.

7

Warmer to-day Wilbert & Ethel and I went over to Eph
Barbours to-day we came to church yith (Willie) he’s
quite a sport. We came home with J. McFee. Tib
Young was up this morning.

8

Fine day got up early and went to berry patch berries
were good fooling around this afternoon had a card
from Lucy Currie. Ethels very sleepy to-night
(poor Jack).

9

I picked berries in the garden they washed this morning
then we done the ironing this afternoon it rained a
little to-night.

10

Fine morning. Ethel & I went to Hillsburgh this morning
we expected Lucy Shelton on the eleven train but she
did not come we got home about 2.00.

11

Went to MacKinnons berry patch berries were fine this
morning. It was a lovely evening so Ethel & I took
a walk up to Coopers lots of fun playing Pitt.

12

Fine day went to berry patch came back about noon. We
went to party in the Park to-night had a swell time
I came home with Roy Young & have a date for Tuesday

Mother’s brother, Wilbert Awrey, born in 1886.
married Bessie Barbour in 1912 and died in the
1918 flu epidemic.

J

4.
night Wilbert is twenty four to-day he’s getting his
birthday bumps.
13

Fine day we were kind of late getting up. We done the
work in forenoon & had a sleep and talked in after­
noon W. went to Burg.

14

Fine day got kind of cloudy in evening but cleared off
again. John Awrey came down this forenoon then he *•
took Ethel & I to church & Elmer Awrey drove Ethel
home we brought them both in had a fair time.

15

Went to berry patch (guess we can bid farewell to it)
got six quarts berries. I had a sleep then got up
and sewed got an invitation up to Albert Awrey’s for
Wed. evening so holidays are nearly over.

16

Cloudy day. I was sewing had a wee sleep in afternoon
(my its very nice having holidays you can get in a
sleep once in a while) Roy Younge came up to-night
had a fair time.

17

Close hot day. I slept in this morning then we were
ironing. Ethel and I went up to A. Awrey’s to-day
Wilbert took me back to Hillsburg to-night. I was
out for a big long walk with Burnie Russell, had a
swell time its a lovely evening J. ,H. Burt’s have a
wee girl & Mrs. Howes drownded herself this morning.

18

Cleard off again lot cooler to-night I was developing
pictures to-day they came out fine. Jack Awrey was
over to-night. I came home early and am getting to
bed in good time. Mrs. Howes will be buried Sun.

19

Fine day. I was printing pictures to-day but didn’t
have very good luck. things were very quiet so we
came home and am going to bed early it’s a beautiful
night.

20

Lovely day making pictures Ethel & Wilbert were over
to-night. Uncle Jimmy and aunt M. brought aunt Sara
over to-night, she is going to stay for a while.
It’s an elegant night.

21

Fine day went to church this morning big crowd J. J.
Elliot preached Ada & Bob Barbour came over for
dinner then they took me & we went over home came
back to church at night it was crowded full Ethel
went back home with Bob & I went for a drive with
George Burt.

r

Two views of Dr. Gibson’s house. I would judge
the top one to be earlier since the trees and ivy
are more developed in the bottom one. The fence
which in earlier days may have kept pasturing
livestock from the garden, has been removed too.

5.
22

It rained heavy this morning but cleared up in the fore
noon. We started to take stock to-day quite a job.
nobody in town to-night so we came home early Aunt
Harriet and aunt Sara were over home to-day. Ethels
feeling very sleepy after last night pretty good
fellow (Bob).

23

Damp wet day. Erin Boys came up to-day to play ball.
Hillsburg won score 6 - 8 .
It was kind of wet game
nobody in town at all so we came home early.

24

Damp day not many around Aunt Sarah went home this
morning got cooler towards eve. aunt H. & Millie
Boyle & I went up and had some ice cream then M. & I
went for at little walk no fun so came home.

25

Nice bright morning came up a terrible wind and then an
awful rain still raining hard to-night no walk for
anybody to-night. Isa Irvine and his kids came
today.

26

Fine day but quite cool, didn’t do much all day fooled
around with the two Irvine kids Chris came tonight.

27

Fine day Dr. went to Fergus to-day had an operation for
appendicitis on J. Jackson. Hillsburg and Allan
Jun. Base Ball teams played to-day H. won score 9 23 The Irvines went home to-night. Billie McPhail
died yesterday.

28

Beautiful day went to church this morning had Mr. Scott
& Mr. Russell for dinner I kept house this afternoon
till 4 o ’clock then went down to uncle Smiths for
tea Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Dyer were there came back to
church to-night big crowd out Barbours were up to
McFee’s to-day so they were all out together Wilbert
was here for tea to-night I went for a walk with
Burnie Russell to-night lots of fun stealing apples,
etc.

•#

29

We washed to-day and Dr. and I were taking stock this is
an awful job. Jack McFee came in to-night and
brought me some music I’m all in my glee to-night
think I’m going to get to the Exhib.

30

Nice day we were taking stock nobody in town so came
home.

31

Heavy rain this morning but cleared up nothing doing
so came home.

r

r

Sept. 6....went to the E x .... went up to Uncle
Archies stayed all night....
Uncle Archie and aunt Sarah Irvine who lived in
Toronto. Archie was a brother of grandma Awrey’s.

SEPTEMBER
1

Beautiful day Aunt H. & Dr. went to a picnic on the
second line to-day I was taking stock. Wilbert
came over to-night w e ’re going down to the Ex
Mon. or Tue my this is a slow week.

2

Very nice day we didn’t do much at the stock to-day
but worked till ten to-night I feel like two cents
these days don’t know what to do Mother & Ethel
were over to-day.

3

Quite a heavy shower to-day and a lot of wind were
working all day taking stock was at choir practise
to-night not much doing so I was out most of the
night had a little fun went for a walk with Jack
McFee he wants me to go up to-morrow don’t think
I’11 go though.

4

Nice day went to church McLacklans wanted me to go to
Orton from church but did not go. Wilbert & Ethel
went up to McFee’s today I went to the Disciple
church to-night then for a walk with Fred Widdis.

5

Raining heavy this morning we were working at the stock
I don’t know what Im doing to-night Wilbert rang me
up and told me he couldn’t go to Toronto.

6

Well I got very nervy this morning. I got ready and
went to the station I was going to go to Toronto
myself but W. came in before the train left we
went to the Ex and stayed for the fireworks. they
were grand went up to uncle Archies stayed all night
pretty tired.

7

Beautiful day Mildred I. Wilbert and I all went down town
this morning had a great time didn’t come back till
4 o ’clock then we husseled off to the station but
was there in time there were a lot came up on the
train to-night to Hillsburg.

8

Fine day Eva Biggar came here last night. Aunt H & Dr.
went to Toronto this morning Eva & I were to stay
alone to-night but Miss Semple came over and stayed
with us.

9

Nice day woke up about seven this morning but got around
in very good time we were developing Films to-day
Burnie R. was helping us the Dr. & Aunt came home
to-night I went over and stayed with Miss Semple
to-night.

Sept. 13.... seventeen I can hardly imagine
Im getting so old...... we got our pictures
taken but I don’t think they’ll be good.

7
10

Beautiful day didn’t do much work to-day went to
choir practise nothing doing much so came home
about ten o ’clock.

11

Nice morning Wilbert came over to church this morning
and took Bessie Barbour over home then Geo. Burt
came and took Eva Biggar & I over this afternoon we
went to Mimosa church to-night lovely night not many
out.

12

Cold this morning Eva stayed over home last night we
started taking stock again but Dr. was called away
came home early to-night and had a game of Parchessi

13

Nice day here’s for my birthday seventeen I can hardly
imagine Im getting so old Mother & Ethel brought
Eva over to-day we got our pictures taken but I
don’t think they’ll be good Burn Russell was up
this afternpon making pictures.

14

Seems to be getting awfully cold I guess winter is
coming I took Eva over to the 5 train this evening
Violet Gurney came down on it she is going to stay
for a while Wilbert & Roy Younge came over to-night
so they took us for a drive a lovly night.

15

Beautiful day didn’t do much this forenoon making
pictures this afternoon Violet & I went to the
Disciple church to-night but no good at fishing
didn’t get any body so we came home.

16

Nice day worked all day Dr. and aunt H. went to church
to-night Violet & I went for a walk with Fred Widdis
and Elmer Green. It is an ellegant night.

17

Nice day but looks a little like rain to-night Ethel &
mother were over to-day I went down to choir
practise then Violet went for a walk with Mr. Green
and I came home.

18

Cloudy to-day looks like rain. Went to church this
morning and to Sunday School Wilbert was here for
tea we went to church to-night then I went for a
walk with Roy Younge & Violet went with Mr. Green
(pretty chummy) eh!

19

Nice bright day having fine weather now. Violet & I
went for a walk Mr. Green caught up to us so I came
in.

Sept. 24....Burnie Russell came up to bid
us good-bye this morning.....
Burn, father’s older brother, appears in
mother’s diary before he does.

Sept. 25....took a walk over to bid Mrs. Wise
good-bye she is going away in the morning
Grandma of Arch & Burn who became our greatgrandma, pictured with M y r t l e & Edith Scott.

8v
20

Fine day there is two or three cases of fever around now
We came home early to-night.

21

Nice day we are nearly through taking stock. Millie
Boyle came down to-night so we went home & made
Taffy. My it is just lovley out these nights.

22

Heavy Frost last night its getting more like fall. We
were taking stock all day but didn’t finish. Violet*
& I were going to go to church to-night but Arnold
McKinnon came along and he & Violet & Burn Russell
& I all went for a drive we had a fine time only it
was a little cold. Everybody is getting ready for
the show tomorrow.

23

It rained a little this morning but nothing to spoil
the show There was quite a stir in town all day
we went down to the show to-night. Violet went with
Mr. Green. I went in with Dr. they had quite a nice
crowd there & a good show I feel a little blue to­
night Violet is leaving in the morning.

24

Damp nasty morning. Burnie Russell came up to bid us
good-bye this morning he left on the nine train and
Violet went on the eleven I’m pretty near lost since
she has gone Mother and Ethel were over to-day Jack
McFee walked down with me to-night.,

25

Cold damp day. I got up about ten o ’clock and went to
church. Dr. McKay preached this morning. Flora
McLachlan hand in her resignation as choir leader
last night. She is going to be married soon. Mary
McL came in with me from church & Eva McGill came in
for tea went to church to-night not many out then
aunt H. & I took a walk over to bid Mrs. Wise.goodbye she is going away in the morning.

26

Wet miserable day we finished up the stock taking to­
day everything is done now and Im not sorry. We had
Mrs. Switzer, Carrie Carmichael & Ellen and Bess
McNally & Miss Semple in to tea to-night. Kate
McMurchy came home to-night. I had a card from Carl
Innes.

27

Very wet this morning but cleared off nicely this after­
noon Wilbert was here for tea to-night then he went
on over to the tenth nothing doing in this town now.

October 5 .... 1 went to the station to-night
there was quite a crowd there Letia Watson
was married to-day so she was going on the
train to-night......
The station was a familiar part of life in
Hillsburgh. This was partly because so
many people were either coming or going
by train and had to be met or seen off.
It was also the place where grandpa Russell
was station agent and where father worked.

28

Fine day nothing much doing I feel kind of homesick only
wish I could get home Kate McMurchy and I went down
to Howes to-night but came in early and went to bed
I ’m certainly not losing any beauty sleep these
nights.

29

Beautiful fall morning w e ’re having elegant weather I
printed some pictures to-day. Went down to Disciple
church to-night came home and we played Lost Heir
till half past eleven.

30

Well here’s for the last of Sept. It was nice this
morning but came up thunder storm to-night. Ma &
Ethel came over to-day they got me a new dress and
hat Im going home to-morrow.

OCTOBER
1

Rather cloudy this morning but cleared off a little and
the wind got up Mr. Johnstons barn was burnt last
night Wilbert & Myrtle & Ivy came over to-day so I
went home to-night.

2

Beautiful fall day Ethel & I went down to Lasby’s and
seen the baby (Bert W. is back there again) then we
came up & took ma with us and went down to Roots to
see their baby they are going to call him Ebenezer
Haines. We came home from there and Dave Barclay
came down and took us both up to church big crowd
out to-night. Dave has lots of fun in him.

3.

Nice day Ethel brought me back this morning I fooled
around all day I went out to McGills for tea tonight
had a good time.

4.

Rained all day this certainly was the slowest for long
enough. We marked off some china that we got then
came home and went to bed hope things are a little
livelier to-morrow or some of us will drop off.

5

Dull all day and it poured rain to-night. I went to the
station to-night there was quite a crowd there Letia
Watson was married to-day so she was going on the
train to-night she married Russell Thurston.

6

Well it is still raining Ada Barbour was up to-day and
that was about all that was in town Jack McFee came
in to-night and had a c h a t hope its nicer to-morrow.

Inside and outside
views of Dr. Gibson’s
drug store where
mother worked.

10

7

Good bright cool day quite a few In town but no drives or
anything I was making pictures.

8

Very nice day Wilbert came over after me to-night it
rained a little but not of any account. Bert Warmington is working "there" for a few days.

9

Nice morning but got quite cold and cloudy Ethel & I went
out for a stroll this afternoon then Wilbert and I
left about three and I came over to the Burg. We
went down to the Baptist church to-night and Jack
McFee was there waiting so I went for a drive with
him had a very nice drive there was quite a cold
wind but we had the top up & it was nice and cosey.

10

Nice bright day Mrs. Rodgers washed for us to-day it
wasn’t to bad in the shop but pretty slow but w e ’re
patiently waiting for Erin show, hope I have lots of
fun I sowed on the hooks & eyes on my dress so now I
think I ’ll go to bed.

11

Beautiful day a little warmer. I was printing post
cards wrote a card to Carl Innes to-day nothing much
doing and going to bed 10 P.M.

12

Fine cool day nothing doing went for a walk with Eva
McGill to-night. Flora McL was married to-day.

13

Nice day but very cold. Not doing much to-day went for
a walk with Edgar Huxley to-night hope for a fine
day to-morrow.

14

Nice warm day I worked in the forenoon Wilbert came
about twelve and we went to Erin show quite a large
crowd there I had a fine time was with Ada Barbour
I came home on the train was pretty tired so Erin
show is over for another year. There was a little
McKennie boy hurt very badly to-day.

16

Nice bright day the nicest w e ’ve had for a long time I
intended going out to Fred Whites this morning but
they did not get to church so I didn’t go out.
Mother & Wilbert came over this forenoon but went
back again early I went to McGills for tea to-night
then we went to church Mr. Fowler preached I went
for a drive with Edgar Huxley it was a most beauti­
ful night J. H. Burt’s baby died this afternoon.

17

Another nice day. Well it’s just a year ago to-day
since I started in Hillsburg I have learned a lot in
the past year. Nothing doing to-night so came home.

Beautiful bright day. I guess w e ’re having Indian
summer. It was very warm to-day. Burt’s buried
there little baby to-day they feel very bad about
it. Quite a few talk of going to Grand Valley
Fair to-morrow. Jack McFee was in the store to­
night but wasn’t talking to him long.
Nice warm day just like summer. We had Mrs. Rodger up
cleaning the store to-day so w e ’re all cleaned up
now. This is Grand Valley fair day quite a crowd
there I went for a walk with Miss Semple to-night
it really seemed to nice to come in Geo Barbour
came stepping along so young Nellie had to take her
departure.
Not so nice to-day got very cold this evening I wasnt
doing any thing special to-day got a letter from
Violet Gurney shewants me to go up for Thanksgiving
I was out for a walk with Miss Semple to-night
Raw cold day started to rain to-night we had quite a
thunder storm nothing going on.
Rained this afternoon Mother & Ethel came over but went
back early Wilbert was to come over for me to-night
but did not come I was out for a walk with Edgar
Huxley to-night but he’s getting to serious I don’t
want to start and go with him now.
Rather a nice day but certainly looks like fall. I went
to church this morning. We had a good laugh Mrs.
Robinson came to church in her peticoat she forgot
her skirt but went home and got it though I felt
kind of lonesome all day rather disappointed I
didn’t get home. Went for a walk with E. Huxley
A very nice fall day we were unpacking some of our china
for Xmas. Miss Semple & I walked up to McMillians
to-night had a very nice chat nothing doing so we
closed up early & came home Dr. aunt & I had a few
games and we certainly had a grand Jubilee to-night
had lots of fun Mother was over this morning.
Fine day we finished unpacking Dr. & aunt are going to
Guelph to-morrow so I will be alone. Dr. was away
to-night so I closed up to come home & Geo. Barbour
walked down with me for a walk.
Nice this morning but came up rain to-night. Dr. & aunt
H. went to Guelph so I was all alone to-day they got
back about 3 o ’clock. Hugh Wright was over this

Oct. 3 1....Miss Semple ft 1 went for a
walk to-night but didn’t play any tricks
so Halloween .... ,over for another year
(this is Hillsburg’s main street after
one Halloween)

Nov. 3....Norm Barbour... came in ft we
had a high old time chasing all over the house..

12
morning haven’t seen him for two years. Jack McFee
came down with Aunt H. & I to-night. We had a nice
little chat.
27

Nice day I fixed up the window to-day for Halloween Miss
Semple & I went for a walk to-night we went to the
station but the train was run off the track & didn’t
get in till ten o ’clock.

28

Looked like winter this morning everything covered with
snow I went to the station to-night to see Miss
Semple away there were quite a few came up on the
train to-night (very cold)

29

Cold raw day snow flurries every once in a while things
were very quiet to-night Mabel Bower came up on the
train to-night to stay over the holiday Wilbert was
in town but I didn’t go home.

30

Fine day a little milder We went to church this morning
& S.S. & Eva McGill came in for tea then we went to
church to-night I went for a drive with Edgar Huxley
had a very very nice drive going out with Eva to­
morrow.

31

A very fine day. Miss Bower aunt H. and I all went for
a drive this morning it was a swell morning for
driving so then Eva McGill & I went out this after­
noon hunting beachnuts got home about five & went
to the station to see Mabel B. away. Miss Semple &
I went for a walk to-night but didn’t play any
tricks so Halloween & thanksgiving are both over for
another year.

NOVEMBER
1

Rather nice this morning but rained heavy to-night I came
right home from the shop I have a sore ankle. Think
I must have sprained it Mother & Ethel were over to­
day 1m going home next Sun.

2

Cold day My this has been the longest day for a long time
Nor. Potters had a wee son this morn. I went for a
walk with Miss Semple to-night tho't I was going to
get a drive but got stung Edgar didn’t come.

3

Nice fall day worked all forenoon in store not much going
on I started to fix over my pink dress to-day I went
for a little walk with Nor. Barbour to-night then
came in & we had a high old time chasing all over
the house to-night.

13
4

Nice bright day but very cold I was making pictures
to-day then we went to a Mission Band concert in
the church didn’t get a drive to-night either
going home to-morrow night.

5

Very nice day snowed some to-night Wilbert came over
for me but we didn’t get home till twelve o ’clock
I went for a walk with Edgar to-night.

6

Bright day but very windy Wilbert, E. & I went up to
J. Lowrys this afternoon. McKinnon’s & Coxes were
there, we all went to church then Dave Barclay was
there & brought Ethel home & I came with Arnold
Mckinnon it was rather against the grain though
Guess Dave, thought we were going to set him out
to-night.

7

Snowed off & on all day I came over to Hillsburg this
morning Miss Semple & I went for a drive to-night
with Edgar Buxley had a dandy good time (0 you old
Sandy).

8

Fine day Aunt H. went to Toronto this morning it
certainly seems quiet without her. Im housekeeper
we closed early & I am getting to bed 9:30 P.M.

9

Rather a wet day rained heavy this afternoon Aunt H came
home to-night. I went for a walk with Miss Semple
Edgar came in to-day & made a date for next Sunday.

10

Wet nasty day rained & snowed & blowed all day nobody
in town so I came home & went to bed. I was reading
a book East Lynn it is good.

11

Cold day snow flying all day. Well this has been a
fearful dreary day hope to-morrow is better.

12

Snowed to-day but its not a bad night. I went to choir
practise nothing very wonderful went for a walk with
Edgar H. to-night.

13

Very nice day I got up at 9:30 A.M. went to church then
in P.M. went to Sun. school. Jannie H. came in for
tea & we went up to Nor. Potter’s to see the baby
went to church to-night & Edgar & I went for a walk
but it was pretty cold so we came in.

14

Beautiful day a little milder there was a convention in
the church to-day so we have two ministers over
night had lots of fun talking to J. McFee to-day
Jack Smiths horses ran away to-night one of them was

bady hurt but nobody hurt.
Rather nice day but gee I feel blue everythings going
dead wrong had started to make pictures to-day &
they didn’t turn out well & J. McFee came down &
wanted me to go for a drive & I couldn’t go & I
would loved to have gone it is bright moonlight
now but I guess I’ll go to bed & sleep it all away.
Colder to-day nothing doing we were all out watching the
eclipse of the moon to-night I didn’t go to the
store at all to-night.
Fine day I was down at the house all afternoon sewing
my it’s a grand night but there’s nobody to go out
with Im just dying for a drive hope it will come
soon.
Fine cold day well Edgar H. came & took me for a good
fast drive to-night & I thouroughly enjoyed it.
This is Literary meeting but I did not go down to
it.
Nice day quite a few in town to-night I went over to Mr.
Maltbys for tea to-night then went to choir practise
Jennie McL & I went through the glass door at the
Drug store to-night feel pretty cheap.
Fine day not very cold went to church this morning then
I went down to Bob Barbours with McLaughlins had a
dandy time came up to church to-night then Edgar
came & we went for a walk dandy night.
Fine day nothing doing closed up early & came home to­
night but didn’t get to bed till eleven o ’clock.
Fine day Dr. was away nearly all day had lots of fun
with J. McFee to-day Wilbert came over to-night &
Miss Semple & I went for a little drive with him.
Raw cold day nothing going on at all very very slow I
came home early & am going to bed.
Real nice day but slow as Moses the kids were practising
here to-night for a concert I came home early &
washed my head feel ever so much better.
Very nice day but not many around until to-night I went
down to Lit. a big crowd and a good programe Edgar
came home with me.

Dec. l....Nice day Aunt H. & I went for a little
drive first ride in the cutter.
Dec. 2....Not so cold as yesterday aunt H. & I
went for another drive.....

15
26

Nice day there was quite a crowd in town this after­
noon there was a sale on Mr. & Mrs. Fair came for
tea to-night Wilbert & Myrtle came over to I went
to choir practise a little while then we went home
got home about 11 P.M. went to bed at one.

27

Raw cold day wind in the east. Wilbert & Ethel were
going to Bob Barbour’s so drove me over this after­
noon they all came up to church but Ethel went home *
with J. McFee poor Bob (stung) Edgar H. & I went for
a little walk then we came in he went home about 11
P.M.

28

Rained and froze this morning then snowed to-night we
had Miss Semple & Switzer & Carmichael in to-night
had lots of fun but I’m getting to bed early.

29

Rather nice day to-day was the first sleighing this year
my it sounds nice to hear the bells came home early
to-night and done some sewing.

30

Nice day fine slieghing but gee Im blue nothing doing in
the store so closed up and came home.

DECEMBER

^

1

Nice day Aunt H & I went for a little drive first ride in
the cutter.

2

Not so cold as yesterday aunt H & I went for another
drive we came home early & played Parcheesi.

3

Fine day but very quiet in town I went to the Five
o ’clock train to-night & went to choir practise.

4

Nice day I went up to Overlands from church had a good
time we came down to church at night then I went for
a drive with E. Huxley.

5

Cold day we started to decorate our store to-day had a
card from Ethel to-day skating to-night for the
first but I wasn’t out.

6

Clear cold day very quiet W. came over this eve they are
going to Guelph to-morrow nobody around to-night so
we came home.

7

Not so cold to-day but Gee Im near dead thinking about
this old slow town came home as usual & went to bed.

Dec. 15

Very blustery to-day..

Cold & very stormy day but turned out fine to-night Edgar
H. took me over to J. McLaughlans to-night had a
grand old time got home at 1 o ’clock.
Nice day but very quiet went to Literary to-night with
Eva McGill we had lots of fun Mr. Ben gave a
selection on the violin swell music.
Very nice day quite a few around this afternoon I weht
to choir practise for a little while then J. Awrey
called and he took me over home they didn’t expect
me so I surprised them.
Glorious day got up about 9:30 A.M. then Mother Ethel &
I went for a drive J, Awrey came down this afternoon
& our Dave (EE) is coming to-night I came.back to
Hillsburgh with W & he drove Ada B. home E. H. & I
went for a walk then came in had a great old chat
to-night.
Beautiful day J. McFee came down to-day asked me to go
to Alton Ball with him he is going to take both of
us don't think I ’ll go though.
Cold stormy day very very quiet Wilbert was here for
tea to-night stormy to-night.
Milder to-day I went out to skate to-night for the first
this year didn’t stay long Eva McGill came home with
me.
Very blustery to-day quite a few in town to-day I came
down to church we were going to have choir practise
but there wasn’t many there so we didn’t stay think
I’ll go to (Bed) Its my best friend these times.
Nice day there wasn’t many in town to-day Ethel came
over & got a tooth out to-day I went to a party in
Alton with Geo Barbour to-night certainly had a
good time got home about 4:30.
Don’t feel bad at all to-day wouldn’t mind going to
another party to-night B. Russell came up this fore­
noon & stayed a while he came home last night I went
to choir practise to-night am going home to-morrow.
Very mild to-day I went to church this morning then
this afternoon E. H. came along & we went over home.
Fred I. & Miss H. was there & Dave B. came down &
took Ethel to church we went up to cut quite a shine
the four of us got back here about 9:30 P.M.

Dec. 19.....B. & A. Russell & J. McNally
were in to-night & we had heaps of fun—
Dec. 21....I went out to skate to-night had
a good time A. Russell came home with me.
These are the first mentions of Arch Russell
who mother married seven years later. The
portrait was taken in Orangeville in December
of 1912, information I was able to find in
the photographer’s ledger which is in the
archives at the Dufferin County Museum.

17
19

Nice day very busy in store we had a rehersal in the
hall to-night & the choir practised a little B. & A.
Russell & J. McNally were in to-night & we had heaps
of fun they went home about 10 o ’clock.

20

Nice day quite a crowd in to-night I went down to the
concert in the Hall It was very good E. Huxley came
home with me.
*•

21

Good cold day not so many in town I went out to skate
to-night had a good time A. Russell came home with
me.

22

Milder to-day not many around we came home & played
Parcheesi.

23

Snowed all day my Im good & mad to-night E. Huxley was
going to take me to the concert & he never turned
up. I went with Dr. had a real good programe.

24

Nice day we were fearfully busy all day W & E came over
to-night & I am going home in great humor to-night
getting some swell Xmas Boxes.

25

Beautiful bright day Ethel & I went for a walk this
afternoon. It certainly is quite cheerfull for
Xmas Dave B. came down to-night he ,had lots of
fun but Nellie ran off to her bed good-night for
Xmas 1910.

Jan. 9....aunt H. had about 10 girls in to tea.
Some of the girls - aunt Myrtle standing on
the right and mother sitting on the left,
Myrtle Hall and Lillian Young (I think) at
the back and Millie Boyle sitting beside mother

- 1911 JANUARY

J

1

Dull day ralnd some to-night Wilbert brought me back to
Hillsburg Mr. McCormack preached to-night E.H. came
home with me.

2

Very nice day this is Nomination day so there is quite a
stir we got the returns to-night so there was quite
a crowd around.

3

Fine day I feel like two cents have a dreadful cold.
Nobody around to-night so I went home took a hot
drink & went to Bed.

4

Beautiful bright day everything sparkling with Frost.
J. McFee came in just about six so he walked down to
the house with me he had a whole lot to tell me.

5

Cold stormy day nobody in town E. Huxley came down this
P.M. & talked for a while but my Im lonesome.

6

A little milder to-day but nobody around I went home &
done some sewing to-night.

7

Nice day I made pictures this P.M. had good luck I
intended going up to McFees to-night but got fooled
out of it so I went over home feel .pretty sore over
it all.

8

Stormy
to tea
church
to bed

9

Bright day but very stormy but Beautiful night aunt H.
had about 10 girls in to tea to-night. Edgar H came
down & we went for a drive, he went straight home
last night.

10

Lovely day dandy good skating to-night but I had to stay
in the store was fearfully mad. I went home & went
to Bed.

11

Mild day rained this A.M. not many around. Mary Tullock
& I went down to Howes to-night came in 9:30.

12

Beautiful day this is Orangeville Fair day so a lot gone
up there. Mary Tullock & I went out skating to­
night.

day Bruce McP. & Tib Y. came up this P.M. & stayed
then W. & I came to the Burg we went to
then I walked straight & square home & went
don’t no where Edgar went to-night.

19
13

Nice day quite a few in town I went down to the Hall to­
night this was social night at Literary had a very
good time.

14

Mild to-day quite a few around to-day there was a shoot­
ing match & the Institute meeting to-night I stayed
in the store till nearly ten o ’clock came home & had
a bath.

15

Nice day I went to church this morning then Wilbt called
for me & took me over to Barb. This P.M. we all
came to church in the sleigh I went for a walk with
E. Huxley.

16

Fine day but very quiet I went down to the church to the
annual meeting to-night got home at 12 o ’clock.

17

Beautiful day we all went up to the Hall to-night to a
party had a swell time.

18

Fine day got up about 8 this A.M. & went to the store
then I stayed at the house & had a big sleep this
P.M.

19

Beautiful day but very quiet Edgar came down to-night
and we went for a drive.

20

Stormy rained to-night everything quiet in town Literary
to-night but I didn’t go.

21

Fine day. I washed bottles this morning quite a few in
this P.M. I went down to choir P. then went home
with W. we got home about 11 P.M. but didn’t get to
sleep till 3.

22

Fine winter’s day Ethel & I went out & had a sleigh ride
this morning W. brought me to Hillsburg to-night
went to church then Edgar came home with me.

■#

23

Nice day nobody in town I went out to skate to-night had
a swell time N. Barbour came home with-me.

24

Beautiful day I was making pictures Edgar came home to­
night & we went to a concert in the Hall.

25

Mild day but good skating to-night N. Barbour brought me
home from the rink.

26

Damp day hardly anybody in town We had about six married
couples in to tea to-night they went away about
10:30 Im good & sleepy.

r

Feb. 1..... 1 went to the 11 train this A.M. Pearl
Irvin came up on it....Pearl & I went up to E.
McKinnons to-night to a party got home about three...
Mother’s cousin, Pearl Irvin. Pearl was the oldest
child of grandma Awrey’s brother, Archie Irvin who
operated the Irvin Lumber Company in Toronto.

27

Nasty damp day hardly anybody in town Lucy Currie & I
went to Literary to-night had a great old time.

28

Bright day turned a lot colder there was a shooting
match in town I went to choir Practise to-night but
not many there.

29

Rather a damp day I went to church this morning then to
S.S. this P.M. then Eva McGill came in to tea we
went to church at night but Nellie marched home
alone & went to bed good & sore to - don’t no where
Edgar went.

30

Blustery wintery day just a few in town Edgar came down
this P.M. but I was rather cool. Closed early &
came home.

31

Nice day heres for the last of Jan. Mrs. R. Simpson was
buried to-day.
I am going up to E. McKinnons to­
morrow night to a party.

FEBRUARY
1

Stormy day. I went to the 11 train this A.M. Pearl
Irvin came up on it. Then E. McGill & Edna & Pearl
& I went up to E. McKinnon to-night to a party got
home about three o ’clock.

2

Fine bright day not many around to-day we came home about
8 then Wilbert brought Bessie & Ada Barbour in &
stayed till ten o ’clock Im good & sleepy.

3

Fine day. Ethel came over to-day & took Pearl over home
they are going to a party to-night there was a meet­
ing in the church to-night but I didn’t go Edgar
came across & talked to me.

4

Fine day but turned out stormy at night a shooting match
to-day between Gary & Erin but Garry beat them out.
I went home to-night with Wilbert.

5

Beautiful day we were rather late in getting up Wilbert
brought me to Hillsburg & I went to the Disciple
church to-night then Edgar & I took a walk to the
Lower end of the town he came in & stayed till 2:30
its a beautiful night & we certainly talked some.
D. Barclay & J. Grieves were down home to-night to
see Ethel & Pearl Irvine they’ll have a high old
time.

21

J

6

Stormiest day we have had for years nobody in to-day so
we closed at six.

7

Nice & bright to-day quite a change from yesterday Wilbt
Ethel & Pearl I. & I all went over to Eph Barbours
to-night they had a little dance had a very good
time.

8

Milder to-day a beautiful night but nobody around to' take
Nellie for a drive so I just came in & went to bed.

9

Fine cold day not many in to-day I went to the rink but
did not skate There warnt many there.

10

Fine cold day got milder to-night it started to thunder
so guess w e ’ll get some cold weather Eva McGill & I
went for a walk to-night B. Russell came home to­
night.

11

Fine day but not many around I went to choir practise
then Edgar came down & we went for a drive it was
a beautiful night Geo. B. & Miss Semple & Eva &
Harv & Miss Dewey & Jim H. were all out driving to
got home 10:30.

12

Mild to-day went to S.S. at 9:45 then church at 11 A.M.
Jennie Huxley & Eva McGill came in.for dinner I went
to church to-night but nothing doing after church so
came home & went to bed.

13

Mild day Mother Wilb & Ethel came over went home about 3
P.M. J. McFee came in & we had a dandy good talk.

14

Stormy day just like a week ago yesterday we closed at
six & came home.

15

Milder to-day quite a few in town J. Hendersons had a
young son to-day I am going up to J. Kings to-morrow
night for a party.

16

Nice day quite a crowd around we went up to Kings to­
night & had a good time got home about 3 o ’clock.

17

Fine day very soft I slept in this morning came home
early to-night.

18

Fine cold day had lots of fun. Wilbt & Ivy came over
for me to-night I was out for a little drive with H.
McLaughlin to-night haying a high old time.

22
19

Most beautiful day got up at nine A.M. fooled around
all day W. brought me back to the Burg to-night
went to church then E. H. came home with me lots
of sport we had Wilbert call on us about 11:30 P.M.

20

Fine day there was a car load of horses left here to-day
for the West Miss Semple & Kate MacM. were in for
tea stayed till 9:30 P.M.

21

Fine day but very cold I was reading a little then came
home and went to Bed at 10 o ’clock feel like 2 cents
have an awful cold.

22

Fine cold day there is a party at McEnrey’s to-night but
I’m not in that going to Bed at 9:30 dont feel much
better think Im in for grippe Ethel Kerr was
married to-day.

23

A little milder to-day we were unpacking goods all day
Wilbt came over to-night went home at 9.

24

Fine day I wasnt
down to Literary
E. Huxley walked
go to a party in

25

Fine mild day just like spring big .crowd in town I was
working at a centre piece went to choir practise
to-night & came up after it with Hugh McL. they
want me to go out there to-morrow I was talking to
Edgar & we aren’t going to Rockwood Won. night this
is sweet Sat. night.

26

Mild to-day snowed a little all day then turned colder
I went up to Huxley’s from church this P.M. came
back to church to-night I came home & went to bed
at 10 o ’clock.

27

Cold & stormy I didn’t do anything but talk all day long
there were a few in to-night practising for the open
meeting at Literary we have a dialogue H. Nodwell
invited me to a party for to-morrow night at A.G.
Parry’s will have a good time.

28

Fine day & the last of Feb. can hardly believe it Eva &
Will Howes & I went up to Alex Parry’s to-night to a
party had a real good time got home about 4 A.M.

doing much only sitting around went
to-night Ethel & Wilbt were there
home with Ethel & I perhaps we may
Rockwood Mon. night.

Mar. 11....J. Awrey came over to take me home
John Awrey, a cousin of grandpa Edwin Awrey’s

23
MARCH
1

Stormy day Edgar came down to-night & came in for a
little while they are preparing for a Ball next
week to be held here in the Burg.

2

Fine day not many around the folks were all in here
practising to-night going to Bed at 10 P.M. going
to a party to-morrow night.

3

Fine day Wilbt & Ethel called for me to-night & took
me down to a party at Sinclairs had a real good
time back at 4:30.

4

Fine bright day went to the shop at 8 and stayed all day
so am good & sleepy J. McFee walked down with me
to-night Lea Gibson came to-day going to stay over
Sunday.

5

Fine day I felept till 12:30 this morning then got up &
went for a drive with Dr. Wilbt & Ethel called to
take me to McFee*s with them but I didn’t go we
went to church to-night Edgar came home with me had
a great old time.

6

Fine day quite a crowd in town preparing for a party Wed.
eve there was a sleigh load went to Erin to skate
to-night.

7

Milder to-day I feel kind of sleepy but can stand it for
a while came home early.

8

Beautiful day I was reading all day went to the party
to-night with E. H. Dave B. & J. Grieves came over
we had an elegant time got home at 3:30.

9

Mild day just like spring got up at 9:30 dont feel bad
at all Edgar was down this P.M. so he took me out
for a little drive & I got wakened up. its raining
some to-night.

10

Quite spring like to-day a large crowd Miss S. & Eva
McG & I went for a walk to-night Wilbt & J. Awrey
were over to-day.

11

Mild all day & a big thunder storm to-night J. Awrey
came over to take me home but I didn’t go on account
of the storm we came home about 9:30 nothing to do
so went to bed.

Mar. 20....Ethel & I took the horse & went to
the lower end for a drive....
This picture was no doubt taken later in the
year than March.

24.
12

Rather a dull morning not many at church I went down to
McGills for dinner & stayed til church time at night
we went to church & Edgar & I went for a walk.
Harvey Nodwell & Eva came along so we all got in &
had a ride lots of fun. Edgar came in we had a
dandy time.

13

Beautiful day my its good to be alive. Wilbt was over
I went to practise to-night J. McNally came home
with me.

14

Another fine day but not many in town I went for a walk
to-night delivering medicine Flora McGill has the
scarlet fever very mildly though.

15

Cold stormy day Aggie Johnston was married to-day well
I have had a lively time all day wish it was like
this all the time Edgar wants me to go to a party
in Erin Fri. eve dont know if I will go or not.

16

Stormy day I wasnt doing much of anything to-day J.
McFee came down & told me all about the wedding Im
not going to the party to-morrow night.

17

Very nice day not many in town Edgar came down to-night
& we had a game of cards (we beat them to) he went
about 11 o ’clock.

18

Milder to-day there was a shooting match here this P.M.
Wilbt came over so I went home I have something to
say to Our Mr. Edgar I guess it will be my turn next

19

Mild to-day fooled around home all day then Wilbt & I
came to church to-night I went for a drive with H.
McLaughlin (guess I got back at him this time) Dave
was coming down to-night.

20

Fine bright day Wilbt brought the cattle over to-day &
Ethel drove the horse so they were here for dinner
then Ethel & I took the horse & went to the lower
end for a drive had lots of fun going to bed early
to-night nobody around.

21

Fine day.
J. McFee &
station to
Semple & I

22

Rather stormy to-day very quiet.
took me to practise to-night.

I worked in the dispensery this A.M. then
Mary called for me & took me over to the
see Tom Kerr & his Bride away. Miss
went for a walk to-night.
Geo. Burt called &

The business men of Hillsburgh pictured here in 1905.
Some of their names appear in mother’s diary and since
she has them identified, here are their names, starting
in the back row:
Pete Warden, George Lacey, Fred Royce, Carl Innes,
George Roszel, John Carmichael, Norm Potter, Walter
Duthie, Bill Shields.
In the middle are:
Harry Rodgers, William Donaldson, Joe McNally
(father’s best friend)
In the front:
Walter Fairburn, James Carmichael, William Everdell,
Norman Barbour, Leonard Matthews, Dr. Gibson.
The girls in front:
Eva Charlton, Helen Sproule, Helen and Maud Lacey

25
23

Fine day but very windy nobody around all day Edgar
came down to-night we had it all talked out made
it all up very nicely.

24

Fine day I worked on my centre piece to-day (while I
wasnt reading) Miss Semple & I went for a walk to­
night it is just grand out.

25

Beautiful day Dr. was away nearly all day quite a crowd
in town to-night I went to choir practise then Edgar
& I went for a walk.

26

Nice spring morning I went to church a big crowd out
Miss Semple & J. Huxley called this P.M. & we went
for a walk so they came in to tea with me we went
to church at night it started to rain about 7:30
so came right in Edgar came in for a while.

27

Rained nearly all day Geo. Burt called & we went down
to Fon Nodwell's to practise it’s turning colder
to-night, going to bed at 11:30 Im keeping good
hours.

28

Cold day snowed a little Ethel & Wilbt came over to­
day had a great old chat Aunt H. is going to the
city to-morrow we had practise here to-night.

29

Cold morning Aunt H went to Toronto so Im keeping
house went to practise to-night at Fon Nodwells
G. Burt came home with me.

30

Milder to-day not many around I was reading a book
all day (Cameron Pride) went to practise to-night
in the Town Hall got home at 12.

31

Here’s for the last of Mar. it is still real cold
Ethel & Wilbt came to Literary to-night Ethel
stayed here all night my Im tired to death
practising for the dialogue but it’s all over now
so Im free for the next week.

APRIL

J

1

Fine day there was a sale in town to-day so quite a
crowd around I went home to-night got there at
10:30.

2

Stormy this morning but is real nice to-night we were
talking around all day I came to Hillsburg with
Wilbt to-night Edgar & I went for a walk after
church but he went home then....

26
3

Quite cold to-day but bright we were unpacking drugs
to-day came home & went to bed.

4

Rained all day nobody in town came home at six & done
some sewing.

5

Cold morning every thing covered with ice rained all
day a lot milder to-night I went for a walk with
M. Semple.

6

Still raining to-day but a few in town cleared up
nicely to-night Miss Semple & I went for a walk Mr.
Charlton is very sick to-night.

7

Beautiful day big doings there was a trial came off
they were hailing some boys up for drinking but the
case was dismissed and to-night they are trying to
locate Mr. Duthie (the banker) he went to Toronto
Mon. intended being back Tue. and he hasnt arrived
yet I was out for a drive to-night with E. Huxley.

8

Fine day the town is just alive to-night Mr. Duthie
hasnt been seen or heard tell of yet I was at choir
practise to-night.

9

Fine day I went to church this morning Mr. Morris
preached came home & Burn & Arch Russell & Joe
McNally & K McMurchy were in for tea went to church
to-night then Edgar & I went for a walk. There was
a crowd out searching for Mr. Duthie to-day.

10

Beautiful spring day big crowd in town I was busy all
day till after tea then I done some running around
think I will go home Wed night & go to Guelph on
Thurs.

11

Fine day I was reading Beautiful night but no body in
town I went out with Kate MacM.

12

Fine morning but rained hard to-night Dr. & Aunt H. went
to Ada Gibsons wedding Wilbt came over to-night but
I didn’t go home it was so wet.

13

Rained a little to-night Miss Semple & Geo. Barbour & I
went for a walk, came in early Dr. & aunt H went to
Fergus to-day.

14

Rained a little this A.M. but cleared up fine we didnt
work much to-day I went to the station to-night.

27
15

Fine windy day lot in town to-night I came home about
10 P.M. Edgar walked down with me but went right
home.

16

Cold to-day I went to church this A.M. Bessie Barbour
came in for dinner then Geo. Burt came along & took
us for a drive this P.M. went to church to-night
Edna McGill Harv. Nodwell & I went for a walk I came
in early & went to bed.

17

Fine cold day Annie Milloy’s body came to the station on
the 10:40 train Mr. Wall dropped dead at the station
this morning. Things are very exciting in town.

18

Fine day getting a lot warmer. Arch Russell & Kate
MacM. was in for a while to-night had lots of fun.

19

Fine day but my it did seem long not many in town J.
McFee came in to-night & we went for a walk came in
at 9:30 going to bed early.

20

This was a most beautiful day Horse show in town to-day
and there was an awful crowd every body was gone
about eight o ’clock so I went out for a walk with
Arch Russell

21

Nice morning but rained this P.M. not many around Mr.
Byrne hurried to-day Dr. & Aunt H went up to Huxleys
for tea.

22

Fine day. I was just reading all day didn’t get to
choir practise went for a walk with Edgar H.

23

Fine day went to church this morning then Eva McGill
& I walked all over town in afternoon went to.church
to-night Edgar came home with me he left about 12
P.M. but not with very good graces we had a spat.

24

Beautiful day I went to a party at J. Somerville’s to­
night went with J. McFee & had a swell time got home
at 3:30.

25

Another nice day but very quiet. I went for a little
walk with Norman Barbour to-night (lovely night)

26

Fine day nobody at all in town met (Mr. Cullen) to-night
came home and went to bed early.

27

Another nice day but I don’t feel like enjoying it I
have a fearful bad cold took a drink of lemon & went
to bed.

r

May 4....Uncle Robt. Root was hurried to-day.
Pictured are Robert Root and his wife, Betsy

r

:

28

""'

28

Looked a little like rain this A.M. but cleared away
came home & went to bed.

29

Fine day big crowd in town to-night but I was so sick
I couldn’t hardly stay in the store Wilbt came over
(so I felt some better) & I went home got to sleep
about 3P.M.

30

Well here’s the last of Apr. It rained hard nearly'all
day till eve then cleared up a little Wilbt & Ethel
took me over to Hillsburg we went to church Edgar
H. came home with me and then....

MAY
1

Rained all day quite a few in town this P.M. had a good
talk with Jack McFee came home about 9 o ’clock went
to bed.

2

A whole lot colder feel like getting our winter clothes
out again I came home early.

3

Fine bright cold day I had neuralgia in my
so came home got it warm and went to bed.

4

Getting a little warmer to-day Uncle Robt. Root was
burried to-day I came home about 9,and played
parcheesi for a while then went to bed.

5

Nice
Miss
take
went

6

Lovely day everybody in town to-night went down to choir
practise then Wilbert & I went up & had some ice
cream first this year then Miss Semple & I went for
a walk an elegant night.

7

A most elegant day just like summer I went to S.S. &
church this morning kept house till 3 o ’clock then
Wilbt & Ethel called & took me over to Eph Barbours.
Ethel & I came to church with Billie then she went
home with J. McFee & I went for a drive with Edgar
gee it was a swell night and drive to.

8

Fine warm day we washed to-day so was real tired to-night
went to bed about 9:30.

9

Fine day but very quiet in town. Miss Semple and I went
to Robertsons to-night to hear the grr
,*ione got

face all day

day but nobody in town I was out for a walk with
Semple then Geo. Barbour came & was going to
us for a drive but I had to go in so they
alone.

29
home about 10 P.M. Mother & Ethel were here to-day.
10

Fine day but looks like rain quite a crowd in town. Dan
Carmichael & I made some lemonade to-day treated our
friends M. Semple & I went out to the ice cream
parlor to-night then Geo. & Edgar came along so we
went for a walk.

11

Windy day came up a big thunder storm this P.M. I was
out with Miss Semple and Geo. Barbour to-night had
lots of fun.

12

Fine day quite a bit cooler to-night worked hard all day
Mrs Rodger came up & we house cleaned the store a
big job. I am tired tonight so came home and am
going to bed early.

13

Fine day feel rather tired after yesterdays work went to
choir practise to-night then came back to the store
and Edgar & I went for a walk Mother & Ethel were
over to-day.

14

Beautiful bright day I went to church this morning M.
Semple came in with me for dinner Edgar came down
this P.M. and took me for a drive we went down to
the town went for a walk to-night came in about nine
o ’clock. H. Nodwell called here tp-night.

15

Nice this A.M. but began to rain to-night they arrested
some Italian men here to-day for fishing in the pond
C.M.T. Co.

16

Rained nearly all day but quite a few in town Miss
Semple came in to-night.

17

Rained a little to-day thunder storm to-night M. Semple
Miss Switzer & I went for a walk to-night.

18

Fine to-day I was working all day went up and got some
ice cream to-night and brought it down to the house
early.

19

Hot day nobody around to-night so I came home.

20

Fearfully hot to-day just like the middle of summer.
went to choir practise to-night then went u
ia
Ice cream parlor with Harv Nodwell & Eva McG
sck
McFee came home with me & we went for a walk
at
over home to-night with Wilbt.

I

May 21....Hot hot to-day...
May 28....Fine hot day I went to church this A.M.
Arch Russell & Joe McNally came in this P.M.

May 30....Fine day nobody around I was reading a book
(The Scottish Chiefs)....

Aug. 11....Al, Cert, Mary & I drove up lo Crosbies

Aug. 13....Fine day, we were taking snaps all A.M.

67
Archydale to-night.
6

Lovely day Harry, Gert & I went over to Presby­
terian church this P.M. Herb & Frank was down to
tea Herb took us for a drive in the car this
evening.

7

Fine day we got up early and washed then Gert,
Harry & I left uncle Jim & aunt Lizzie in to Moose *
Jaw & they went down to Rochester. We got home
about 5:30.

8

Rather cloudy all day. We were ironing this A.M.
& this P.M. we went up to the pond for a swim the
kids all went to tennis to-night Harry & I kept
house.

9

Cold all day. We had a bad thunder storm last
night & it rained quite a bit to-day had a letter
from aunt Lizzie & they were at Estavan.

10

Clearing off a little to-day but still pretty cold
A1 took the hired girl to the station she left us
this A.M. Harry & Tina arrived back to-night.

11

Fine day A l , Gert Mary & I drove up to Crosbies
this A.M. Herb took us out for a car ride this P.M.
I stayed all night the kids left for home about
7:30 we were shooting gophers this P.M.

12

Fine day getting warmer we went down to Caron this
P.M. I met Mitchell but he was pretty busy in the
store Herb was away to-night so Francis & I went to
bed about 10 o ’clock.

13

Fine day, we were taking snaps all A.M. then about
11 Herb got the car & we came down to uncle Jims
D. Carmichael came out here last night Tina and
Harry ran him back this eve.

14

Fine day. We washed this A.M. after dinner Harry &
I drove over to Archydale had a letter from aunt
Lizzie she is pretty sick, Bell© ihort earn© here
this eve & stayed all night.

15

Fine day we got up at 2 o ’clock & Harry & I drove
into Moose Jaw Tina & Harry Ingham came in to see
me off to. The train left at 4:15 I had a pretty
good trip but it was a little hot I went up to Ben
Matthews & stayed all night.

August 17....A rea1 hot Hay we hardly know how to
koop cool...
Grandma Awroy, now Mrs. Smith, at her home’ in OLterburne

Aug. 19....This P.M. Dad & I drove up to see them
thresh ing.....

68
Fine hot day we didn’t get up until 9 o ’clock
then after dinner Hattie & I came down town I
done some shopping & then went down to the train
Dad met me at Otterburne.
17

A real hot day we hardly knew how to keep cool I
made a waist for myself to-day. I was talking
to Beatrice on the phone & she & Bert are coming
down Sunday.

18

Another hot day a little breeze coming from the
south I cut out a dress for mother and got it all
fitted I done some of my washing to-day Dad
finished stooking to-day.

19

Rained some last night so its just hardly so hot
to-day This P.M. Dad & I drove up to see them
threshingthen we went on to Otterburne got back
about 9 o ’clock.

20

Fine cool day Roy Toltons Bert Smiths & Earl Tolton
were all here for tea they left about 10 o ’clock
then I packed up my duds got to bed at 11.

21

Fine cool day I got up at 4 Dad drove me to the
station I spent the day in Winnipeg had a good
look around I got on my train at 10 P.M. and went
right to sleep the train left at 1 A.M.

22

Lovely day I met a Miss Hewitt this morning so we
talked all A.M. train reached Ft. Wm. at 2. We
went up town & had a look around Boat left at 5:15
One of the officers took us down & showed us the
engine to-night.

23

A beautiful day met a Mr. Navin & Foster this A.M.
we talked on deck for a while then I came down &
wrote letters. We went out on deck this eve. &
paraded until 10:30.

24

Lovely day Boat reached Pt. McNichol about 8:30 we
took the train from there and got into Toronto at
1 P.M. Arch met me there I went up to the Walker
house & had a good bath. We talked all P.M. then
went to a show at night good play Beverly’s Balance

25

Fine warm day. I wakened about 7 had breakfast
with Arch then we took a run out to North Toronto
came back had dinner at the Grill then went up to
Irvines had tea & took the 5:05 train for home
was glad to get back again.

A uk 23....We went out on the deck this
evening and paraded until 10:30

r

Aug. 26....Jane & Maggie Gibson have been here
for a couple of weeks....
Mother and aunt Harriet in the white skirts and
Jane and Maggie Gibson in the dark skirts.

69
26

Fine day but quite cool. I was busy talking all
A.M. Jane & Maggie Gibson have been here for a
couple of weeks so they left this eveng. Ethel
was down to-night & we had a good chat.

27

Fine day Dr. & Aunt went up to
Myrtle & I went to church this
for dinner. He & Fleming were
Arch & I went for a little car
came back and went to church.

28

Fine cool day Mrs. Rodger came & washed this A.M.
I was ironing for a while this P.M. Arch brought
us some ice cream this P.M. & it went fine the
folks got home to-night about 7 then I went up to
Prestons with Dr. for a drive.

29

Fine day I was working in the house all A.M. wrote
some letters this P.M. Arch & I played tennis with
Myrtle and Fleming to-night and got trimmed Mrs.
Scott & E were in for tea.

30

Fine day I started working at a dress for Myrtle
Mrs. Good came down & helped me. Came up to the
store this P.M. for a short time. Arch & I went
for a walk to the lower end to-night.

31

Fine day Dr. & aunt H. went over to McMillans this
morning to get some butter Wilbt. & Bess were over
to-day John Armstrong of Orton was killed last
night in a runaway.

Hepworth to-day
A.M. Arch was in
both in for tea
ride to-night then

SEPTEMBER
1

Rather cloudy all day rained at night. The Hor­
ticultural show was held to-day. Mrs. Good, Mr.
Farr & aunt Martha Awrey were here for tea. Jack
McFee got his face cut to-day Dr. put in a couple
of stitches.

2

Cleared off again and quite cool. I finished
Myrtle’s dress to-day. I went to choir practise
to-night after ward went for a walk with Arch.

3

Lovely day I went to S.S. & church this was child­
ren’s day. Mr. Good & his mother were here for
dinner. We went for a walk up the track this P.M.
McLachlans & Goods & aunt H. went down to the Forks
for a drive in P.M. went to church with Arch to­
night Cliff was over.

70
4

Fine day we got up early & washed then I swept
the upstairs after dinner I went to Orangeville
with Dr. called at Ivy’s Went for a walk with
Arch to-night.

5

Lovely day Dr. & aunt H. left at six this morning
for the city I done the ironing then was sewing
Kept store for a wee while to-night & Myrtle &
Fleming went for a walk they came in & Arch & I
went for a walk.

6

Fine day I went up street this P.M. & stayed with
Myrtle. Dr. & aunt H. got home to-night about
10:30.

7

Fine day We were sewing all day Jim Gibson & Lue
were here for tea Arch & I went for a walk to-night

8

Fine day was sewing about 5 we had a game of tennis
Bob Fleming & Myrtle stood aunt H. & I we got
trimmed Had a game of 500 to-night Arch & I won.

9

Lovely day we were doing up pickles & fruit &
baking Dr. got called down to McCutcheons so I went
along for a drive, in P.M. aunt H. went to Mimosa
with him Ethel was down to meet Jack to-night but
the train didn’t come until 10 o ’clock so she
didn’t wait.

10

Beautiful day went to S.S. & church after dinner
Arch Bob & Myrtle & I went out taking pictures
had some tramp alright went to church to-night &
then some more walking the boys both stayed for
tea.

11

Fine day Dr. got up & he & Mr. Scott went fishing
had a nice catch, we washed this A.M. but didn’t
do any ironing was sewing this P.M.

12

Fine day we ironed this A.M. Dr.
Orangeville this P.M. so aunt H.
far as Keiths & spent the P.M. I
store until tea time we got home

13

Fine day but looks like rain. We went to the Red X
meeting this P.M. Wilbt was over so I went back
home with him we got home about 8:30.

14

Rather cloudy this morning and turned real cold
to-night I helped Bessie with the ironing and then
was working at my fancy work.

was going to
& I went up as
stayed in the
about 4 o ’clock.

Sept 17....Ethel & Jack were down for tea, also Arch
Ethel, Jack McFee, uncle Allan (Dr. Gibson), aunt Harriet,
mother and Arch Russell.

71
15

Still good and cold Mildred & I went back to
the old orchard & got some apples this A.M.
Wilbt & I went to Ospringe to-night got home
about 10:30.

16

Cold day I went up to Dave Roots about 10 o ’clock
& helped Mrs. Root they were threshing got home
about 4 & the threshers were here for tea.

17

Rained a little this A.M. but cleared up in P.M.
we came over to the Burg for dinner. Went to
church in P.M. to-day Ethel & Jack were down for
tea also Arch. We just went for a walk to-night.

18

Cold day we washed this A.M. & ironed this P.M. so
I am tired had a letter from Violet & she wants me
to go up next week for the fair. Joe McMillan came
in to-night & played 500.

19

Cold all day I was sewing this A.M. Aunt H & I went
out calling this P.M. Jim Gibson was here for tea.
We played 500 for a little while to-night Dr. was
away.

20

Fine day a lot warmer Dr. & aunt H. & Myrtle went
up to Orangeville fair & I kept house also store.
Arch & I went down to a lecture iij the Disciple
church to-night.

21

(No entry - or explanation of why not)

22

Rather cloudy to-day rained heavy about six o ’clock
We were up to the millinery openings this P.M.
Myrtle & I were up at McConnells to-night Arch
called for us about nine & Roy came down to and
we played 500.

23

Fine cool day I helped with the housework this A.M.
was sewing this P.M. but didn’t get through went to
choir practise to-night.

24

Fine day went to S.S. & service this A.M. Ivy & Bob
were here when we got home. We went for a walk in
P.M. met Mr. Beatty and he came down for tea.

25

Lovely day we washed & house cleaned the parlour
this A.M. the piano tuner was here in P.M. Dr. &
aunt H. & Arch & I played 500 to-night Myrtle and
Fleming went walking.

Bill Robinson and VioLet Gurney, who la Lor married,
mother and Arch Russell, who also married, and
aunt Myrtle and Roy McConnell, who didn’t marry.
In the Sept. 27 entry, mother mistakenly calls Bill
Robinson, Bill Robertson.

\

72
26

Rather cloudy all day rained this eve. I was
ironing this A.M. had a headache all P.M. so was
lying down I went up to Fergus to-night Ern &
Violet met me at the station got home about 9:30.

27

Lovely warm day Billie Robertson came up & took
Violet & I to the fair & in eve Ern & I & Bill &
Violet went to the concert I enjoyed the day fine
although it rained heavy to-night.

28

Rained this A.M. cleared up fine in P.M. Violet &
I walked down to Stan Leslies stayed all night. We
had a great time. It rained heavy to-night.

29

Cleared off again but pretty cold. We got up &
struck back home this A.M. had a ride with Mr.
Benham. We were all playing rummy to-night. Bill
came up about 9 o ’clock Violet & Mrs. G. & I were
in town this P.M.

30

Fine & cool all day I was working at my fancy work
Bill came up & took us to town to-night Mrs. G. &
Stella went to Kitchener to-day to stay a week.

OCTOBER
1

Fine day we got around about 9 this morning but
didn’t go to church. Arch & Bill & Wilbert Cormie
& Stan were all up for tea Arch stayed until morn­
ing.

2

Fine day Arch got away about 6 o ’clock I didn’t see
him at all. We washed this A.M. & went to town in
P.M. I got a tooth filled we played rummy to-night.

3

A beautiful day we were ironing in A.M. Gladys &
Wilma & Mr. G. went to Fergus this P.M. & Violet &
I travelled away to the field where Ern was plough­
ing & we sat & done fancy work.

4

Lovely day. We just fooled around all A.M. then
Gladys & Violet & I came up town I took the train
home Ben Simpson was married to-day went down on
the train to-night.

5

Lovely warm day aunt H. & I dug up
A.M. Dr. & aunt H. went to Caledon
Harold McConnell left this A.M. he
seas soon Arch & I went for a good
night.

tulip beds this
fair in P.M.
is going over
long walk to­

73
6

Lovely day I was doing fancy work all forenoon
In P.M. Dr. aunt H. & I all went up to G. Valley
fair got home at 6 P.M. Arch & Bob & Myrtle & I
played 500 to-night.

7

Fine day but a little cooler was baking this A.M.
fixed a skirt for Myrtle this P.M. she went to
Elora to-night uncle Archie came to-night I got
home about 10:30 from the store.

8

Beautiful warm day I went to church this A.M. In
P.M. Arch & I went for a big long walk Ivy & Bob
& Wilbert & Bess all called this eve. stayed until
9:40 after that Arch & I took a walk down street
hated to come in the night was so warm.

9

Cold damp day started to rain about 4 A.M. cleared
up by noon & we all went to Erin Show. Myrtle &
I went down in the jitney got home at 6 P.M. played
500 to-night.

10

Still cold but fine day Aunt H. went with Dr. for a
ride this P.M. had their tea at Fred Wilsons I was
doing some work on Red X quilt we played 500 with
Myrtle & Bob to-night.

n

Fine cool day I was working at this quilt in A.M.
went up street in P.M. I kept store to-night &
Myrtle went for a walk it is a beautiful bright
night.

12

Fine day becoming warmer I was putting the quilt
together this A.M. came to the store in P.M. while
Myrtle took her music lesson Arch & I went for a
walk to-night.

13

A terrible day cold & rained all day I went up
street this P.M. but didn't stay long. Went to bed
early to-night Dr. & Myrtle & Bob played 500 until
midnight.

14

A lovely day
Mission Band
Mr. Beatty.
called for a

15

Lovely day I went to S.S. & church Mr. Beatty & I
sang a duet Myrtle went with Dr. for a ride this
A.M. Myrtle Hall & I went for a walk this P.M. &
she came in for tea Arch was here too.

y

y

we baked this A.M. then this P.M. the
all went for an auto ride I went with
Went to choir practise to-night. Arch
minute.

Oct. 16 ....W i1.b t . & Bess were here for tea....

74
16

Rather a cloudy day & came up a terrible wind storm
at night we washed & cleaned up the house to-day
Wilbt & Bess were here for tea stayed until 10:30
the storm was nearly over then.

17

Cold & rather windy a number of trees were uprooted
last night in the storm. We ironed until noon
worked fancy work this P.M.

18

Lovely day we started making a dress for aunt H.
stopped work about 4 P.M. & took a walk up street
Arch & I went for a good swift walk to-night.

19

Rained all day long we were sewing until tea time
Myrtle stayed down after tea & I started fixing a
dress for her went up street a little while to­
night.

20

Still raining turning colder to-night we finished
aunt H. dress but not Myrtle’s quit at tea time.
We walked over to meet Arch tonight then played 500

21

Cold & wet we baked this A.M. not doing much in
P.M. I went to choir practise to-night after wards
went with Arch for a walk.

22

Rather a nice day I went to S.S. & church Miss
Rounding & Buda Barbour were in for dinner. We all
went up to English church in P.M. Bob & Arch were
here for tea went to church at night.

23

Fine day we washed this A.M. Dr. & Aunt H. went to
Erin in P.M. & I entertained John Awrey he stayed
to tea Arch & I went for a walk to-night.

24

Fine day. We ironed this A.M. until 10 o ’clock
then aunt H. & I drove over to Wilbt. I stayed &
aunt H. left for home about 3 o ’clock went to bed
at nine o ’clock.

25

Nice this A.M. but rained on towards evening Bess &
I were sewing all day Louie Hall was married today.

26

Cold this morning Bessie & I drove down to Ospringe
got home about 11 o ’clock was sewing all P.M.
Wilbert was at a threshing.

27

Rather a wet day we were sewing all day Mrs. Tinney
& Miss Langdon came up this P.M. for a while we
went to bed about 10:30.

Nov. l....Fine day the Sunshine Club met here
this P.M. to finish the quilt....
The Sunshine Club, back row: Elsie Barbour,
Ida Wheeler, Myrtle Hall, Lettie Harkness, Flora
McGill, Jennie Huxley, unknown, Lillian Barbour,
Lorna Lacey, Lillian Young, Budah Barbour, unknown.
Front row: Verna Gray, Ella Barbour, Millie Boyle,
Bess Harkness, mother ( feeling a little chilly?)

Nov. 5....then a bunch of us went out taking snaps...

28

Lovely
Guelph
had 60
Irvine
for me

day we were up at 5 this morning left for
about 6:30 & got in to the market at 8:30
lbs. of butter & got 43c a lb. met Nancy
in Guelph we got home @ 8 & Arch drove over
got to the Burg at 12 o ’clock.

29

Lovely mild day. We went to church this morning
John McDougall & Mrs. were here came yesterday left
this P.M. Arch & I went for an auto ride with Alex'
& Roy this P.M. we went to church to-night Hazel
Hall was in for tea.

30

Fine all day we done a big washing this A.M. also
some house cleaning working fancy work this P.M.
I went to choir practise to-night got home at 9:30.

31

Dull day started to rain about noon. We were iron­
ing this A.M. aunt H. went with Dr. for a drive
this P.M. Myrtle & I were at a party at Jack
Carmichaels to-night had a good time progressive
euchre.

NOVEMBER
1

Fine day the Sunshine club met here this P.M. to
finish the quilt got through about dark Wilbt &
Bessie were here for tea Cliff Morrow was over this
eve Arch called but didn’t stay.

2

Fine nearly all day but started to rain this eve.
the choir was practising this evening for the
social to-morrow evening Arch was in for a little
while to-night.

3

Lovely day & a bright beautiful night we had a
large crowd out to our Mission Band concert Carmine
Dyer gave an address Lorna Lacey & I brought up the
dishes & cleaned them in P.M.

4

Wet all day I went over to the church & helped
clean up the dishes in P.M. it got so dark & rainy
we had to light the lamp at 3 P.M. Mr. Grinner the
new station agent called here with Arch to-day I
was at choir practise to-night.

5

Beautiful day we went to S.S. & church this morning
in P.M. Arch & I went with Will Gordons for a car
ride then a bunch of us went out taking snaps.
Carmine Dyer preached to-night & the church was
almost full.

76
6

Rather cloudy day Bob Fleming called in this
morning to bid us good bye he has enlisted I was
sewing at my gray waist this P.M. & helped to make
some Red X shirts.

7

Lovely day aunt H. & I went up to McFees this A.M.
she came home about 5 o ’clock but I stayed Ethel &
I sat up until 11:30 talking & then we didn’t get
talked out.

8

Another nice day just like summer Mr. McFee took
baby over to ninth line & we were sewing all day
Arch came up for me to-night we had an elegant
drive home.

9

Rained all day but Dr. & aunt H. went to Toronto
in the car I kept house. Went up to the store
with Myrtle this P.M. they got home about 5:30.

lO-

Fine day we were sewing most of the day I was in
the store for a little while this P.M. Florence
Irvine came down from Fergus to-night. We all
went up to a play in the town hall this eve.

ll

Fine day but cold & rained a bit to-night we done
the baking this A.M. Aunt H. went with Dr. into
Orangeville this P.M. A.D. Farr was here for tea
I went to choir practise.

12

Nice day but cold. We were in S.S. & church this
morning Noah King & Bob were here fpr dinner Myrtle
& Florence went for an auto ride this P.M. with
Roy & Alex. We all went to church to-night.

13

A nasty day but Mrs. Rodger washed. We had our
first snow storm to-day Florence went home on the
noon train I went to the station with her & came
back with Arch. We played 500 to-night.

14

Fine bright day I was making a waist for Myrtle
had a bad headache all P.M. went to bed early
to-night.

15

Rather cold & snowing aunt H. & I got away this
morning @ 8:30 & went over to Ivy’s made a dress
for her & got home at 6:30 Arch was in to-night
Arnold Jacksons picture was in the Star to-night
he was killed in action.

16

Fine day we ironed all A.M. this P.M. I was up at
Mrs. Donaldson’s cuttiing out for Red X got home

Nov. 20....I went down with Buda Barbour to­
night for a few days.
This picture was taken at Buda Barbour’s
farm with Buda and mother in the shafts.

77
at 5:30 Jessie Jackson & Bob were married yesterday
17

Fine day I ripped out my old purple velvet dress
to-day was fixing it over. Went for a walk with
Arch to-night.

18

Fine cold day. We baked this A.M. I was working at
my dress this P.M. was up street for a while this
P.M. Went to choir practise to-day.

19

Lovely day I went to S.S. & church Arch came over
in P.M. & we went for a walk was out to church to­
night .

20

Fine day we washed this A.M. & done some house
cleaning in P.M. I was reading I went down with
Buda Barbour to-night to stay for a few days.

21

Lovely day I didn’t rise until 9:30 Buda & I
tramped up to the tower this P.M. had a good time
taking snaps. We played euchre to-night until
10:30.

22

Another fine day Ella & I took a stroll up to
Arthur Tarzwells this A.M. in P.M. we came back up
to the Burg to Red X quilting & I stayed home here
Arch & I went for a walk to-night >aunt H. & I
called at Scott’s this eve.

23

Rained all day Mrs. Sowerby came in just at noon so
stayed for dinner we were sewing this P.M. Mr.
Griner came on night train he is the new station
agent.

24

Cold stormy day I finished sewing my velvet dress
in P.M. I went up & kept store while Myrtle took
her music lesson we played cards to-night.

25

Fine
this
went
7:30

26

Fine day I went to S.S. & church Bob & Arch & Mr.
Russell & Margaret Barbour were in for dinner in
P.M. Jack Falkner & Hazel Hall & Roy McConnell came
& we all went out for a walk so they all came back
for tea Margaret & Arch & I didn’t go to church
Norris Huxley called about 7:30 he & Margaret left
for home 8:30.

day was baking in A.M. Jim Gibson was down
P.M. I was up street this eve while Myrtle
to meet the train Bob Fleming came in on the
afterwards I went to choir practise.

Nov. 26....Bob & Arch & Mr. Russell & Margaret Barbour
were in for dinner.....
This picture of grandpa Russell shows him In the car Ln
1916. It’s the same one he bought In 1911, but he had cut
it down to make it into a "runabout" coupe.

The Banner, Oct. 5, 1911: W . J. Russell, C.P.R. agent
at Hi 1 Isburg, has purchased a five passenger McLaughlinBuick touring car.

78
27

Lovely day I was making payjamas for Red X this
A.M. in P.M. Millie Lang & I went out collecting
for the Bible Society. We got $34.00 Arch went
to the city this morning Bob was in to-night Dr.
& aunt H. had tea down at R. A. Reids.

28

Dull & cloudy all day we washed this A.M. Wilbt
& Bessie were over for tea Bob Fleming went away
this morning on the 11 train I called at McConnells
this evening.

29

Still very dull & misty I was sewing in early part
of day about 4 P.M. I went up to McConnells to
practise a solo. Dr. & aunt H. were up to Sam
Huxley's to a party to-night.

30

Fine day turning colder
A.M. in P.M. we went up
institute nothing doing
early Had a letter from

we done some washing this
to Harknesses to women’s
to-night we went to bed
Arch to-day.

DECEMBER
y

y

i

Fine day got quite cold & windy towards
making some waists for Myrtle this P.M.
aunt H. went to Marsville oyster supper
Roy McC & Alex McL. came down this eve
danced until 11 P.M.

night I was
Dr. and
to-night
& we four

2

Fine day we baked in A.M. in P.M. was reading
Hector Cameron. We called on Mrs. Parry & I gave
her the Bible Society money. Went to choir prac­
tise to-night Arch came home to-night.

3

Fine all day but turned out wet at night I was at
S.S. & church this morning. After dinner Arch & I
drove up to McFees stayed to tea got home about
9 o ’clock.

4

Very cloudy all A.M. & rained good & hard in P.M.
we washed in A.M. Had McLachlans, Will Halls &
Maltbys & Arch in for tea stayed to 11 o ’clock.

5

Wet day we brought the Clothes in & dried them
inside Aunt H. went with Dr. for a driv
P.M.
& 1 had the girls in practising after

6

Still cloudy we ironed all A.M. in P.M. .. went
up & helped unpack goods. Went to choir practise
at Will Halls to-night Arch & Roy came to so after
practise we had a game of Fan-Tan.

f his

79
7

Fine cold day I was up at the store nearly all
day Dr. & aunt H. & Arch & I had a game of 500
to-night.

8

Milder to-day I was up helping Myrtle prepare for
Xmas came home & cleaned up about four o ’clock we
played Fan Tan to-night.

9

Rather stormy all day I was up street in A.M.
Practised the girls in the P.M. for Xmas tree.
Went over to the station to the 5 train & went
to choir practise to-night home @ 10.

10

Rather cold & stormy went to S.S. & church Mr.
Gandier preached this morning went to Mission
Band this P.M. Arch was over for tea aunt H.
went with Dr. for a drive got back at 6:30 We
went to church to-night.

11

Fine day Mrs. Rodger was here & we washed in A.M.
Arch Wilson was here for dinner I had the girls
in practising at four I kept store to-night &
Myrtle went to a dance in Orton with Ross Huxley.

12

Fine day I got up & went to the store this morning
cleaned up the cases for Xmas came down at 11 &
ironed Arch was here for dinner Aunt H. went to
the annual meeting of W.M.S. & I kept house this
P.M.

13

Turning colder I was up helping Myrtle all A.M.
went to Red X meeting in P.M. Maggie Jackson & I
sang a duet I had the girls in to practise to-night
Arch & I went for a short walk to-night but it was
storming.

14

Real cold day & enough snow to make sleighing
almost Arch went to Toronto this A.M. I went up
street in P.M. was taking some pictures. We had
a few in to tea to-night they left at 11:30 Myrtle
& I sent our Xmas box to mother to-day.

15

Fine cold day the thermometer dropped to below zero
last night I was up at the store all A.M. was sew­
ing in P.M. Myrtle & I took a walk to-night Fred
Wilson & wife , Alex Farr & Wilbt were all here for
tea.
Fine day I was learning my S.S. lesson this A.M. &
wrote a letter to Arch. Practised the girls this
P.M. I went to choir practise to-night & didn’t get

80
back until 11 o ’clock had a bath & went to bed.
17

Beautiful day but cold I went to S.S. & church this
A.M. was rumaging through my boxes all P.M. Cliff
Farrow came over for tea we all went to church to­
night & I went to bed early.

18

Fine day Mrs. Rodger washed. We were decorating
the house this A.M. for Xmas. In P.M. I went up td
the store & printed pictures got a little order out
to Eatons.

19

Fine day a little milder & also a little more snow
We had a rehersal in the town hall this P.M. After
tea I went for a drive with Dr. to Albt. Awrey’s
Mary is very sick. We had the cutter & it went
fine.

20

Fine day but dull. We done some baking this A.M.
& in the P.M. I went to the store aunt H. went up
to the town hall Concert came off fine Winnie
Mclnnes & Captain McLaine were married to-night at
the manse.

21

Fine day I was writing some letters & cards in A.M.
& decorated the Hall in P.M. was up at the store
I kept store to-night & Myrtle went to the Disciple
Baptist concert Nancy Irvine came to-night.

22

Rather a nice day Dr. was at Albt. Awreys all A.M.
Mary died this evening at 7 o ’clock this was nom­
ination day so there was a good crowd around Nancy
left on the 5 train this evening.

23

Snowed some to-day I helped in the house all A.M.
& in the store all P.M. Arch came home to-night on
the 7:30 train was glad to see him I didn’t go to
choir practise to-night.

24

Fine day We went to S.S. & church in A.M. in P.M.
Arch & I went for a walk then aunt H. went with Dr.
for a drive Mrs. Carlisle is sick. Earn Blacks had
a young daughter last night.

25

Beautiful day Dr. was called out early this morning
but was back in time for Xmas dinner Wilbts &
Ethels & Ivys were all here. We all went to the
station at 5 to see Arch off the rest all left at
nine Myrtle was up at Mark Carmichaels to-night.

Dec. 26....Dr. & aunt H. went to the funeral
to-day Mildred stayed last night so I kept her.
This picture of Dr., aunt Harriet and Mildred
would probably have been taken in 1916 or 1917
when Mildred was about four or five. Aunt
Harriet and Mildred’s father, Wilbert, both
died in October, 1918.

Real cold day wind in the east stormed some to­
night Dr. & aunt H. went to the funeral to-day
Mildred stayed last night so I kept her. Bob
Fleming came to-night. He slept in the little
room.
A most beautiful day I worked in the store this
P.M. and Dr. aunt H. & I were at R. D. Nodwells
for tea Dina Dyer & Geo. Simpson were married to­
day also Henry Simpson & Bess Everson.
Cold again to-day & stormy Bob left this morning
& we washed this A.M. I was doing some embroidery
in P.M. very cold & stormy to-night. There is a
box social up at Everson’s school to-night.
Fine cold day. We ironed all A.M. in afternoon
the Red X ladies met here & we cut out 2 webs of
cloth nothing doing to-night so we went to bed
early.
Fine day. Ive been
finished to-night &
after practise went
I went with Dr. for
P.M.

reading a book nearly all day
then went to choir practise
up street home about 10:15
a drive to Cedar Valley this
i

Fine day but very very cold we went to S.S. &
church this morning In P. M. Myrtle & I called
on McMurchy’s Church again in evening.

Samples from the three
diaries 1910, & 1911 at
the top and 1916,at the
bottom