2 10 25 https://ruraldiaries.lib.uoguelph.ca/transcribe/files/original/a54250a10bb7913c4a89ca9eaf4b65d5.pdf 5396cbbac133513752a053805194873e PDF Text Text Irene Dixon Bamford 1904 November to 1905 May, Diary Transcription 5034_4-1-13 �Metadata FromThePage export of 5034_4-1-13 from Irene Dixon Bamford made on 2026-02-11 14:35:17 UTC. itemTitle: Nov. 1904-May 1905 date: 1904-1905 Title: 5034_4-1-13 Description: Item is a diary. Created On: 2024-01-11 17:48:35 UTC In Scope: true Uploaded Filename: 5034_4-1-13 �1 IRENE DIXON BAMFORD DIARY Nov. 1904- May 1905 1904-1905 Queen’s University Archives Locator 5034.4 Box 1 File 13 �2 Nov. 1904 - May 1905 �3 Re-Read ’76 - ’84 �4 [diary cover with various non-descript scribblings] Marjorie 17-1/2 eggs 12 eggs 84 17 204 [affixed stamp] R Date 1905 Sealed with Gulfwax 11 butter 17 price per lb 77 11 1,87 2,04 6 8,97 �5 Re-Read ’76 - �6 1 Tuesday 25 Oct 1904 A miserable raw rainy day Wind S W & blowing half a gale Suppose ’Tis a whole gale on the lakes Thursday 4 May 1905 A dismal rainy chilly morning V drove to the dock carrying Rachel I send the butter by Rachel for groceries and things. V brought home the new incubator which had been sent down from the villiage on the Wolfe Island. The name of the boat has been changed from Tom Fosset for Wolfe Islander. Volta set up the incubator but did’nt put in the eggs but has gone over there to ditch. Volta drove to dock for Rachel & groceries �7 Friday 5 May 1905 A rainy wet morning Thunder heavy in night with very vivid lightning. I pulled the curtains down to keep out the glare of the bright flashes of lightning. A regluar [sic] down pour of rain in night. Voltie got a stiff and swolen neck on left shoulder. I doctor it with worm wood vinegar and salt as hot as I can bringing it out, a little better at 9 am. Maud has to wash separator breakfast dishes get dinner &c. Sent a letter to Amanda Dies Voltie carries it Post Office A.M. [various scribblings of letter A] �8 3 Saturday 6 May 1905 A sloppy day we cooked and cleaned floors, made punkin [sic] pies &c. Majorie & Irene came after dark driving old Jake with top buggy so we sat up quite late visiting [Image: pencil sketch ’Lafargeville R] Art Vincent, Bob Reid & Len Patterson came over rowed across and in Green Farr’s skiff, wet to the pelt where the skiff had shiped water. so we have company to dinner Majorie and her betrothed Jo walking down in cedars. Irene calls it "lovers retreat". The gals go home at 5 p.m. boys cant go wind blows so but stay all night. Continued on 5 page �9 4 Saturday 30 Oct 1904 Evening, Dont think I was ever so tired as I am this night and alone, no one to help and Voltie gone to the villiage after plowing all fore noon, gone for coal and new plow. I cant get around very well I am so lame with rheumatism, shoats all turned out the pen this morning 12 or 19, rooting up every thing well let them go; I dont care. Wells Sr got all the chores to do this pm alone, milk, feed hogs, stew pumpkins for hogs out doors, go and draw a load of brush and wood to put around the kettle out doors. I feed the lame duck after the chickens go to roost. Oh I must go and put wood in stove to keep the supper warm dont know when Voltie will come, tis 8 pm now. he may not come tonight. I hope he may. He came �10 5 Monday 8 May 1905 The wind hushed and gone to rest this morning and those lads leave for Depauville. Rains again towards night. V makes cabbage bed and sows 4 papers of cabbage seed and sets out the dahlias. Tuesday 9 May 1905 A cold windy day and squally. Maude paints the pantry and floor. V finished setting strawberry plants. 700 plants. Dad plows. I cook, wash dishes & churn. Mail; Good Storries, Whig, Agricultral dispatch, letter from Grace and one from John. V tested the eggs in incubator all good but one, then he accidentaly broke one. He set the alarm and got up twice to examine the temperature in incubator �11 This is 20 May Saturday 1905 Have not written in this diary since 9th of May, many events have occured since then; my dear old mother died on the 12 of May 1905 of paralysis at the age of nearly 90 years. Frank Woodman came over to tell us. Sunday the body was brought to the island and laid in the vault as it was her request to be burried here. Voltie went for Belle, and she came home with him and staid till after the funeral. Will and Flora, Ethel, Lottie, Belle, Charley, Mary, William & Stanley Woodman and Rachel and Frank Woodman and Johny Bamford here to dinner. Voltie carried them all back over the river, they went in two skiffs. V rowing one and Will D the other. V came back towing one of the skiff home again through the thick fog on the river. The weather is disagreeable, windy rainy and cold. I think V has lost all his tomato plants by setting them out on a cold windy day, plants will die. �12 sure, this very morning is nearly cold to freeze. V coal tared [sic] the punt this morning going to set a net for fish. The spring work goes slowly on; onions, cabbage, lettuce, peas are sowed &c. Rachel and Lottie came over awhile after dinner. Mr Roadhouse came down from the cemetery made a long prayer. Sunday 28 May 1905 month nearly gone Not clear and bright but cloudy yesterday (Saturday). V arose early went to Kingston driving up by the road to the villiage. chickens hatching in the incubator. V came bringing brooder and groceries and woven wire for chicken yard. Evening visitors Mr & Mrs Daily, Rube & Mary McFadden Robert Percy & Bob Henderson’ This morning Voltie took the chickens from the incubator 80 of them and tranfered them to the brooder. �13 Saturday 19 Nov 1904 The most beautiful Nov. day I ever saw, warm, bright like June. Wells Sr shingling stable. Voltie building addition to poultry house. Maud done the Saturdays cleaning up. Irene made pumpkin pies, fried cakes, cooked breakfast, dinner & supper & washed all the dishes and separator. Wednesday 8 Nov 1904 Not a very bad day for the season. Dress 7 fowl & two ducks for market. Rachel came over and helped me finnish [sic] picking fowl and staid—no she didnt and sent her shoe over here for Maud to take to Kingston for repair. V plowing another �14 November Sunday 20 1904 A warm hazy day, wind south blowing rather briskly. Very heavy thunder in the night but little rain. There has been no rain or snow for nearly three weeks, though the ground is, or has been frozen so hard, plowing could not be done for more than a week ago. It is a drouth [sic] in November a very unusual thing, or occurance for this month. I sat down to write in the diary and wandered off into dream land for half an hour or more when Maud arouses me to pare apples for dinner. Sr up stairs all forenoon. The sky is overcast with thick dark clouds and so thick and smoky Carleton Island is entirely hidden from view. Away off in the South we hear the rumbling of distant thunder but no rain. �15 Monday 21 Nov 1904 A beautiful day N wind not cold. Wells Sr & Voltie plowing over the way. June cut out the pillow ticking. Maud made one and took the last of the pumpkin from the poles and Irene put it in the bag and washed separator and mixed bread and washed the Churn and prepared for churning, washes dishes and helped get dinner. Maud swept and made beds. Tuesday 22nd Nov 1904 A fine day and also the anniversary of my birth 71 years old to day. I am nearing the other shore. I wrote and send a letter to Jen. This is a very poor pen and worse ink. I’m sleepy and go fast asleep while writing. The Weekly Herald didnt come. �16 Wednesday 23rd Nov 1904 A beautiful day. Voltie buchered [sic] six hogs for market. Charley Woodman helping also Mr McGreggor. I made butter prints 18 lbs for market. Thursday 24 Nov 1904 Arose at 4 a.m. Voltie going to market with butter and pork. Voltie paid Rogers $50 dollars on rent. Sent Grace a little basket. A dirty rainy day with flurries of snow �17 Friday 25th Nov 1904 Every thing white with snow. Voltie went to Geo Rattrays and brought home the cheese together with the lumber for the veranda. A cloudy uncomfortable day growing colder. Sr making a flail to thresh beans. V working in shop till dinner time. Charley Woodman here for buggy tongue. Wish I could have sent Belle a letter, my poor dear Belle. I dont see her very often, wish I could. A letter from Flora B, Whig, Hearthstone. Thursday 9 Nov 1905 Arose at 1/2 past four and pack the fowl in a bushel basket. I send Grace 1 doz eggs and some apples. Eggs are 30 cts per doz. This is King Edwards birthday. ducks 10 cts per lb and hens only 6 per lb at the fish market. Rachel came over with Voltie and helped me all day �18 Saturday 26 Nov 1904 and staid all night. The weather very good. Voltie plowing "over there". Saturday 27 Nov 1904 �19 Monday 28 Nov 1904 Tuesday 29 November A dirty nasty day. Wind South. Sr & V drawing out manure from back of stable. I subscribed to day for American Home & Northwestern Agriculturist & Womans Farm journal & Good Stories. So that now with Good Litterature we have renewed 5 papers. Evening, Voltie goes for mail, Whig, Dispatch, N agriculturist, American Woman (Saturday Chicago Blade), no letters. �20 Wednesday 30 Nov 1904 Another dirty nasty day. Wind South. Sr and V go over to plow but soon come home again. They cant plow through the snow banks. Thursday 1 December 1904 The coldest day yet subscribed for Hearthstone and Home Journal, sent Belle a letter and remailed Jean’s letter from Shannonville. Voltie enclosing the veranda with new boards. �21 Friday 2nd December 1904 3rd �22 4th 5 �23 6 7 �24 8 9 �25 10 11 �26 16 17 December A beautiful day. Trees covered with a lace work of frost. �27 Saturday 18 December 18 Didn’t rise early as usual. First outsider came. Charley Woodman to sample our cider and after drinking a qt, V went with him to the Loban place to do the chores and feed his hogs. Next came Alice Mackey. V put her horse in stable. She staid till 8 pm, next came Walac Niles sampling our grape wine. Maud went to church a congregation of 6 people. Monday 19 December 19. Wind South East and snowing 2 deg above below zero. V working in shop. Sr patching some old harness or some thing else in kitchen with alls and clomps and leather, he always patches old duds in the house on stormy days. �28 Maude Watson St Lawrence PO Wolfe Island Ont Can Maud Watson 28 $1,864 Laidlaw 1,35 mill 1,25 shoes .75 whiskey .25 Muriel .25 fares 5 scrbler 7 8 Groceries [subtotal] 6,57 freight �29 30 December Friday Arose at 4 am. Voltie gone to Kingston with beef and butter. Came home at 7 pm. Arthur Vincent with him from Belles where he has been since last saturday. He came over to Christmas all night. V brought home a lot of things, groceries, books, blankets &c. he has had a very good day. 31 December Saturday Another fine day, warm snow rapidly disapearing. Tom Chatterton came last night as far as OBriens when he staid all night and this morning. He came and went across the river with A.P. Tom is going to work for him. �30 1 January Sunday 1905 A dreary day but not cold, slush and mud every where. Maud went to church am; after dinner went to Niles to make a visit, came home before dark. Byron Irvine there courting Shell. I think they should marry for they have courted five years and that is long enough. Henry Halliday came here visiting put his horse in stable, came early & staid till 9 pm, wouldnt eat any supper but sat at foot of table & looked on, very odd—eccentric. 2nd January Monday 1905 A cloudy nasty day not cold, snow nearly all gone. Voltie goes to township election, comes back to dinner then goes to Alice Mackeys to hang an outside door. Comes just in time to help milk. I write a letter to Will. After the supper dishes are washed we sit by the coal fire and read till 1/2 past 10 pm. except I finger off a mitten. �31 3rd January 1905 Tuesday A very cold day. Wind North, windows covered thick with frost. Voltie brought water for Maud to wash and put up the new clothes line then went to P.O. to mail a letter I’m sending to Will, came back and wroked in shop shoeing old Nell. After dinner breakfast I patch V’s old pants, wash all the dishes, pots, pans & kettle & get dinner. Maud washing. Sr caulking cellar door. After dinner we set around the coal stove. V & M reads. I write in diary. This is a dismal, dreary cloudy, cold day. Its been a good big washing. Not much snow on the ground any where, growing colder, frost on window like snow 3 pm. V still in black smith shop. Agricultures, Whig, Dispatch, Herald, American Woman, Home magazine, American home. A letter from John, a letter from Grace. �32 Wednesday 4 January 1905 Cold but very bright day sun shining out clear all day. I finished washing the clothes & Maud hung them out and all the other clothes, a big washing. After dinner Sr and V went to the island for a jag of wood and bushed the road as they went across, ice smooth and good for skaters so Maud put on her skates and away she went to Niles carrying their butter basket. I washed dinner dishes, fixed separator, set the sponge and picked over and put the beans cooking. Maud came home and after supper went out again on the ice but didn’t stay long. We sat up till nearly 1/2 past 10 pm reading. Thursday 5 January 1905 A very fine day but terrible cold. Roderick Jr helps. Voltie draw wood from Lindas island. 4 loads: Maud went skating pm. and helped get supper and then went again. Rod staid a long time after supper at sun set it looks like a storm. V brought in the clothes after dark. �33 Friday 6 Jan 1905 A stormy day, Wind N.E. Cant draw wood to day skating all spoiled. Maud is sorry, I not sorry but I’m sorry Maud burnt my new apron Belle sent me for Christmas by drying. subscribed to day for Herald Vickerys fire side and sent V.P. Collins 25 cts for Agriculturist. Maud made fruit cake. I made pumkin [sic] pies, churned and worked over butter. We sat up till then to read, only one hen laying each day one egg. Rachels old hen equal to grinnes old hen. So stormy P didn’t go for our mail. �34 Saturday 7 Jun 1905 Rains this morning but earth covered deep with snow, skating ruined. V (after breakfast) went for mail; only Whig & Herald, a disapointment. We expected the Hearthstone. V brought the sad news that little Samy Woodman had his hand nearly taken off in one of those DeLaval Separators. Charley had to break the separator with the axe before he could get his hand free. They sent for Dr Spankey, he came last night. We sat up late to read; hard work to get water to cook meals; snow is deep between river here area. Sunday A stormy day, Charley forgot to get V’s tobaco alone. All day we ate our meals & read. �35 Monday 9 January 1905 A cloudy stormy day. Maud cleaned pantry very nicely & cooked and done most all the house work. V and Sr started for the Island for wood but the storm turned them back. Bob Henderson here in the evening brought tobaco for V. Wal had been to the bay in cutter. Miss Maud, LWatson St Lawrence Island Wolfe Island Ont. [random cost additions in pencil] �36 Tuesday 10 January 1905 The snow blizzard raged all night. The sun shines out to day but the snow is flying as if the demon was in the swirling sweeping wind. Charley started early and carried little [Little Samy|Samy]] up to the doctors. I wrote and sent letters one to Will and one to Belle. Sr as usual patching old horse blankets in the kitchen. I have no ink it is all used up never could write with pencil. A letter from Nellie Bamford. Wednesday 11 Jan 1905 Raining this morning and freezing. V working in shop. Sr puttering around as usual. �37 Thursday 12 Jan 1905 A not very good day I guess. V says he will not attempt to drag any more wood from Lindas till the roads settle. The snow crust is hard and thick. Friday 13 Jan 1905 Friday 13 Jan 1905 A very good day. I dressed 9 roosters and one drake for market also made 13 prints for market. V went for mail; Chad Woodman till pm. Mail Herald, Good Litterature, Womans World, Whig & Agriculturist, Sunday observation. �38 27 My Dear Friend Rene It has been a long time since I received your precious letter which I treasure as a keep sake from your dear self. I have been visiting Grace for three weeks at her home in Kingston and had a lovely time. I went to the opera and matinees and other places of amusement and came home 2 days before Xmas. This is a strange winter, no ice nor snow for sleighing only mud every where. The old St Lawrence is rolling wild and free with the white caped waves dashing high on shore. I wouldnt mind it so much only Voltie said we would go to the masquerade at Depauville which is less than three weeks from this time and I had my dress all planed [sic] and have been thinking about it so long and now I know I cant go. Oh it is an �39 29 Sunday January 1905 30th January Monday 1905 I am tired of writing letters sometimes, recently I have thought and wished that people would write to me no more. Then I suppose I’d be sorry if I never heard from Wellie, Johny, Belle and Grace. A clear bright cold day. Arthur Vincent said Voltie went to Lindas for wood, gone to am till 4 pm, snow so deep 9 feet around the island. �40 31 Jan 1905 Tuesday [continuation of letter written on blank spaces] awful thing to live on an island and want to go some where and cant. Its like being banished though this island is 30 miles long and such a beautiful place in summer. I send you piece of one of my Xmas presents, 4 yds for a waist, my father sent it. I’m not going to have it made till spring with white silk lace. Sometime when I am in [diary day placeholder date written here] 1 February Wednesday 1905 Kingston I will get some pretty post cards of the scenery in water around Kingston and send them to you enclosed in an envelope and then you can address them to whom you please or keep them. The fellow you mentioned in your lettter (Mr Longshort) I dont know much about him. I think he is all right any way he is not bad looking, quite gentlemanly in appearance and a fine dancer. Last night we received a letter from Marjorie, she said Ethel Dixon �41 2 at Floras for a week. Tis fine thing to live in broad [sic] Jefferson Co then you can go any time and whenever you please. but poor little me cant go not even to the masquerade at Depauville. Dear Rena please write again. From your loving friend Maude L Watson [random additions] �42 4 Saturday February 1905 Looked for Voltie nearly all day. Just after dark our team came bringing Spaff and Frances Joy and their kid Florence. In a few minutes Voltie came having rode down with Charley Woodman. I dont believe I was glad to see the Joys for it put us to a great deal of inconvenience. This is a beautiful day, sun bright and clear. 5 Sunday February 1905 Towards noon Spaff and Frances walked to Niles that young one going along. I glad they are gone for Voltie always has to sleep on the bindstead loung [sic]: when ever any one comes to stay all night. No church service to day. �43 Monday 6 February 1905 A cloudy day a little rain and a little snow. Wind East cold. Alice Mackey came for cider for mince pies. I gave her some beans. I made one fan block for quilt, cooked beans, roasted beef, freshened pickles. Bob Horn & Geo Snub drove in here inviting to a dance at Dick Hallidays tomorrow evening. Voltie threshed the Van beans. Marjorie getting restless about going home. Maud making rug. Tuesday 7 February 1905 The day proved fine so Voltie, Marjorie and Maud went to Dick Hallidays to the dance after he went for the mail. �44 8 February Wednesday Voltie slept about an hour. The girls slept till nearly noon when I gave the work into their hands and sat myself down to piece a quilt and enjoy the warmth of the coal stove which I most thoroughly did for I was very tired. it came on to storm snowing and blowing. Voltie had a saw log all ready on the sleigh to draw to Kingston or Garden Island to be sawed to make beadstead and otherwise, but couldnt go on account of storm and bad roads. 9 February Thursday 1905 A terrible day for storm and wind and snow; log on the sleigh by the coal box, snow piled every where there has not been a thaw thro winter. Sr sick with a terrible cold a distemper I think, he has a cold all winter. �45 Friday 10 February 1905 Snow and storm. Charley Woodman floundered his way through for the mail. Tom Dignam drove as far as consession said he could get no further, wants to buy potatoes. Saturday 11 February 1905 A very bad day, snow six feet between here and the barn, 5 feet between here and the river, awful time to get water and to cook with and shovel roads to the river for the cattle and horses to go to drink and to clean out the water hole. just before dark looked out and said John and Flora and Gladys out to help them bring their valises to the hosue when behold it was Spaff and Frances Joy and the kid. �46 coming back again to stay all night so Voltie had again to sleep on the old truck bed. Alice Michea here for more potatoes. I dont think she likes to pay for them and she dont pay as much as other people. Sunday 12 February 1905 The storm not over yet. after breakfast V hitched up and drove away with our New Liskeard visitors to Geo Ratrays, storm increasing, snow deeper than ever; a long peaceful day: Wall Niles here. Monday 13 February Sun shines out clear part of the day, cold cold every day. I am coming down with the terrible distemper. �47 Tuesday 14 February 1905 A very cold day. I helped get breakfast and could do no more, dont feel well, got the distemper. Voltie coming down with it too, head ache awful. Girls done house work and made rugs. I made rugs too; I dont like to give up. I never saw so much snow on the ground as now, and it looks like another storm. Charley went for the mail. Spaff Joy went up with him. Geo Rattray here for potatoes and paid Voltie four dollars on account. Snowing again harder than ever. I dont eat any suppper. Voltie goes for the mail; Whig, Dispatch, Good Storries, Woman’s farm journal, a seed catalogue from Mills and a postal from Nellie Brooks and a book from Dingman and Puglesly ought ot have two �48 Wednesday 15th February 1905 Snowing all night, snow deeper than ever, no traveling, people waiting for a thaw, our North window half covered with the piled up snow. Bob Reid helping. Voltie pitch straw in barn and staid in evening till bed time. Thursday 16 February 1905 Very cold morning, thermometer 22 below zero. Wrote to Nell Brooks and to Hearthstone for her and send her a paper. Snow all day and increasing toward night. Maud washed but couldnt hang out the clothes for wind and storm. Girls, after dinner worked on rugs till time to get tea. �49 Friday 17th February 1905 Storming and snowing all night and all this day and blowing and snow flying, drifts piling higher & higher. We can yet see the top of our barn. Voltie carried the mail to PO but dont think Charley will go for the mail to day. Wal Niles drove to River View yesterday. Said not much water on ice, only along the shore; he came this am and brought home the tobaco. I darn a pair of mittens for Voltie. Charley went for mail found the travelling awful and got lost in a blizzard, found himself in the wire fence in Niles field. so late V didn’t go for mail this evening. I sent Mrs Brooks a letter and paper and wrote to Hearthstone for her. �50 Saturday 18 Feb 1905 A cold clear day wind S.W. and blowing. Maud hung out the clothes towards night. V brought them in. I cooked beans, freshened cucumber pickles, set yeast, sowed on rugs. Maud moped floors we are short of groceries. Want soap, sugar, tea and rolled wheat but dont know when but dont know can get any where to get any Sunday 19th February 1905 A clear bright cold morning 18 Deg below zero, no thaw yet and no tea. Voltie went to uncle Sams to borrow tea, they had none nor McGreggors had any. Rody gone to River View for tea. Voltie sent by him for tea and sugar. heay [sic] crossing on ice. Henry Halliday & Mr William McNeely came calling. McNeely staid to supper, a great conversastionalitst [sic] about politics and Government affairs; a conservation �51 Monday 20 February 1905 A little warmer but cloudy and the wind is blowing and snow flying. Girls making rugs. Thawing some this pm, snow settling a little. Bob Reid and McNeely undertook to go to Depauville, got as far as the other side to Quinn Beadles, found the roads impassable, turned about and came back again. Tuesday 21st February 1905 A warmer day, snow settling some sun shines but not very brilliant. Old Prince dog gone this morning went off last night after dark after being gone all day yesterday and now at 12 noon he’s not come home and probably never will. he came home long enough to get a good square meal and went away again. Reid & McNeely again try to get to Depauville, guess they will succed [sic] �52 this time. Robert came down a few minutes and I sent our letters by him, one to Puglesly and Dingman and one to Womans World. Sr sent one to Supervisor Cape Vincent. Arthur Vincent and Tom Chatterton came across the ice. Stay over night; horse tired out. Looks like storm. Did not get any books Whig, Dispatch, Vickery’s fire side visitor, Parks Floral magazine. Wedney [sic] 22 February 1905 Vincent Chatterton and Majorie went home to day. Weather cloudy but not cold, slush on the shore road to the top of cutter so we are done once more. On evening Voltie and Bob Reid drove to the corner for kerosine for the Woodmans, came home at 10 pm all abed but me �53 Voltie bought matches, sugar, and yeast cakes, thimble, tobaco Thursday 23rd February 1895 Sent this morning by Snub for 6 bars comfort soap and 1 lb tea then drove to Clayton for coal, only got 200 lbs for they had no chestnut coal. Maud went with Voltie goes to Lib Bamfords. They came home early. The day is fine and warm snow settling. Lib and I have a circulating library between ourselves. �54 Friday 24 February 1905 Colder again this morning but clear. Voltie gone to Kingston for coal & carried 3 bags of potatoes, a basket of beans & 5 doz eggs and I sent 50 cts for an express order for seeds, bulbs and the Home Magazine & V came bacck from Charley’s. Belle and Henry came too. Voltie came just at sun down bringing coal & groceries. Saturday 25 February 1905 Clear warm day, snow settling slowly. V drives over to Geo Rattray to ask him to go with him to Wellies. Maud went to Niles for buttermilk & forgot to ask for the Book. �55 Sunday 26 Feb 1905 A beautiful day. Another load from the "other side". Aday and her two youngest girls and old Dilason and Ben Percy. V came drunk as usual and as usual, I swears and talks like a fool. Lib returned the Book I lent her "The Virginian" had no use for it, traded of "Cow boys". Had it been some antiPopery book it would have been read with gusto. I returned her book which she sent over by Maud so our exchange library is ended. I lent the book to Adda. In the evening, Rady and Geo OBrien came to invite to a dance at Flynn’s and so ends the day. P.S. only brought in two eggs this day, no potatoes cooked for the hens, cow not milked, one egg �56 Monday 27th February 1905 A beautiful fair morning colder. The effect of yesterday’s debauchery by Van Bamford and Ben Percy is still very depressing to mind and memory. Did not do much this day. A dance at Flynns this evening. Maude dont go. 2 eggs. Tuesday 28 February 1905 Cloudy this morning snowing a little in the night. Maude went to post office carrying a letter for Belle to Marjorie and one I sent to Grace & Robert. She brought back the news that Shell & Byron are married last night at 7 Oclock pm. A regular sneak weding [sic] a Niles weding. Alice Mackey here for turnips. Only White and Northern Agriculturist. A clear starlight evening. 0 eggs to day, hens ate them up. Nothing looked after as it should be when Voltie is gone. �57 Wednesday 1st March 1905 A clear bright day & cold heavy frost on all the windows. We expect Voltie home to day. Maude washing. Sr gone to Cape to pay taxes on the island. Belle reading Capt Eri in Hearthstone. I washed colored clothes. Sr came back before dinner going no farther than River View, sent the tax money by Mr White. Charley came down for Belle and stayed all night. Evening visitors Eva Pike & Nez Niles. Eva inviting to party to her home tomorrow evening. March 2n 1905 A clear bright day. Charley and Belle went home this morning. Expect Voltie home this day for sure. This is the hour of 10 pm. Dont know what I may record before night, nothing bad I hope. Voltie came home at 5 pm had a fine visit. Wellie has moved, Voltie and Will helped. Wellie more very near Watertown, fine farm 30 cows. A knapp got back to John �58 Friday 3rd March 1905 Cloudy this morning a light snow fell in the night. Maude very anxious to go across the river to the dance at the Corners. Charley Woodman called had a fine time at the party last night. After dinner Voltie went across the river to try the ice and Maud went across with him to Adda Percy’s to go with them to the dance tonight with Adda’s young people. V going to try and draw a saw log to Clayton tomorrow if the ice permits. V returns saying cant go to Clayton so many pitch holes in the road so concludes to draw the log to ClaytonKingston tomorrow morning. not much mail only Herald and Whig and a letter from John. night sets in dark and cloudy looks like a storm �59 Saturday 4th March 1905 A snowy blustering morning wind North. Voltie dont go to Kingston nor any where else. roads are again drifted full, clears off at noon but the wind blows. Charley Woodman here to have his hair cut and brings an invitation for V & M to attend a party at A Berries. Voltie drove over for Maud, she relates all about the party and her visit to addas. We read till 11 pm. Roseveldt’s [sic] inauguration day. Sunday 5 March 1905 Cloudy again to day. Wind North, an awful depth of snow on the ground. 1/2 past 11 am and no visitors, we like a quiet sabath. I have just finished reading "The Light of Asia" by Sir Edwin Arnold a masterpiece of the mind. I wish I could get his biography. Maud asleep on the lounge. Voltie at the shop. Wells Sr paring potatoes for dinner. The day passed quietly, no visitors. I write a letter to Grace �60 March 6th Monday 1905 A clear day cold snow very deep. Voltie and Sr still has to go over the snow hill to get to the barn. Rheumatism has poor me firm in its chitches and I dont believe I’ll ever get over it. I’m discouraged over it. Voltie went to Woodmans for his fur coat. Edy Bates here inviting to his dance to night at St Lawrence hall. V and M go to the dance. Charley Woodman goes to Al Berry’s A dance and oyster supper at Dick Hallidays for the chosen friends this evening. Tuesday 7 March 1905 V and Maud didn’t get back from the dance till after breakfast this morn. V bought C Halliday 9 bags of tobaco ($1,00). After dinner V goes over to Quinn Beadles with beans 3 bushels. Mail Whig Dispatch, Womans World, Heathstone, Good Litterature & New Thought, and "The Streket Monster a postal from Nell a letter about the island. �61 Wednesday 8 March 1905 A stormy day snow fallng fast and furious and blowing too. going to begin working better than ever. I’ll count some things done in this diary to day. Made a chemise for my self and made the sleeves to small, help do house work and make me help V get ready for Kingston tomorrow. Thursday 9th March 1905 A very fine day. Voltie goes to Kingston carrying beans, potatoes. I sent Grace a few apples; made rug to day, done my work over. Voltie came early bringing Robert with him. Wal came also. A new boy at Geo Niles; their first baby. Friday 10 March 1905 A soft day. After dinner V and R.A.G. drives over to Maloney’s. V going to Quinn’s carrying J his tea. To day I sent away for seeds from J.B. Mills and to Presleys for 2 books &c &c. R & P drive over to Maloneys. They take Quinns tea home. �62 Saturday 11 March 1905 4 below zero this morning quite frosty but clear 3000000000 miles of sun spot; so the papers say. I dont believe they (whoever they are) can measure it. V gone to Rattrays for ice tackling of some sort. R reading and sleeping. We had just retired to our restful beds and comfortably dozing when we were suddenly awakened by some one driving to the door when who should prove to be but John and Flora. Well we all got out of bed except Dada. John had brought his phonograph and we got them supper and sat up till nearly 3 pm visiting and listening to the phonograph which is realy [sic] a grand one. �63 Sunday 12 March 1905 Well Sunday was a fine day somewhat cold in the morning but clear. Flora had brought me cloth and all the trimmings for a new dress the dear good girl. Well we had another phonograph concert of thirty five records. V gave Flora his violin. I gave her — &c and they went home at dark 14 miles and the road not very good. I am sorry to see them go. Syvia and Samy heard the concert. Monday 13 March 1905 A very bright day but cold yet. There has been no thaw this winter. Sa and P still continues to climb the snow hill going to the barn. Voltie goes to River view for oil and calls at Quinn’s for his bean money $6.00. Robert sleeps and Read are long. V bought 5 yds print to set a quilt together. snow dont settle any 4 deg below zero. �64 Tuesday 14 March 1905 A bright cold day no thaw, 4 deg below zero; arose early got breakfast so Robert could go to Niles’ at 7 Oclock am; going up with WalaceNiles to Kingsotn. Quinn drove over, he too going up with Wal. V & Sr shoveling snow to make a road to the ice house. V getting ready to fill the ice house. HenryHalliday came for Voltie to help him fill his ice house tomorrow. Voltie cant help him for he has to go to Clayton tomorrow with saw log. Henry here to dinner. Maud & I cut and sew carpet rags. Alice Michea drove here for potatoes. Voltie went for the mail then went to J Niles for his fur coat which Bob had worn to Kingston and sent back by Wall. V did not return from Niles till 11 pm but played poker with Niles, Wal & Muloney. Tom Chaterton drove over with Wills here gone up to CharleyHallidays. V gone over to Rachels for carpet balls for Jen. �65 Wednesday 15 March 1905 4 deg below zero this morn. V gone to Clayton with oak log to get sawed into lumber to work up in shop. a bright clear day. Voltie came early at 1 pm & we were just rising from the table so he had a warm dinner. Henderson came with the sleigh after we were in bed, said Hank hadnt finishing fillinging [sic] his ice house. Mrs Mr Niles & Mrs Paunp went visiting Shell & Byron. Thursday 16th March 1905 4 deg above zero this morning. Sleighing good every where this morning the snow as deep as ever. cloudy. looks like a storm of rain or snow. Chatterton drove down from Charlies, put his horse in stable and stoped still after dinner. I sent Jen a letter. Voltie cut hole in ice and prepared for filling the ice house tomorrow �66 Friday 17 March 1905 A fine day. Voltie out to the place where he intended to get ice found the water and slush so deep he adjourned the job till later and went to Depauville instead for a stone boat which he paid $2,50. Wal Niles accompanied him; ate dinner with Wells family found them well; Grandmother, better than usual Saturday 18 March 1905 A thaw for sure this morning. Raining all day. The ground begining to peep through the snow in places. Every thing out door look dreary and dismal. A robin trying to sing. poor thing. P.M. Maud and I cut and sewed carpet rags. "Some body laid in the vault to day—dont know where tis: Evening raining hard. �67 Sunday 19 March 1905 A cloudy North wind day, growing colder. Chimney burning out again. river beging [sic] to look streaked. Wallace here to have cross cut saw filed. Maud and I sewed rags A quiet day hens eating the eggs as fast as they are laid. 20 March 1905 Monday cold and freezing. Wall here to get saw filed. Maude and I sewed carpet rags. Voltie working in shop making bedstead. Sr reading novel in kitchen, day passes of [sic] quietly enough. Tuesday 21 March 1905 A moderate day. I sent a letter to Gladys. Sewed rags again to day. Voltie goes for mail and is informed that it is the body of Annetoza Warner that is in the vault. 9 eggs to day. A beautiful moon light evening. �68 Wednesday 22nd March 1905 Moderately warm cooking beans and baking apples. V gone to corners with Charly Woodman brought soap and pepper also. A letter from HB Mills seedman about a 5ct price with a hole in it . The 5 cts was returned to us, rather shabby I think considering we had sent him over two dollars for seeds. Sewed rags to day. 13 eggs to day. Thursday 23rd March 1905 A cloudy morning looks like rain. Jack Niles came to borrow the bob sleigh to go to Kingston.. Clears up, warm quite a nice day, thawing some, snow disappearing. Friday 24 March 1905 A cloudy rainy day. The Earth is very dirty in appearance. Wal, Jack & Henderson drew the sleigh home. V went home with Wal—they gave him a calf for the hens. V went for the mail & found that Charley didnt go for the mail to day. traveling �69 on ice awful. Charley drove to school house for his children and teacher found slush way up to the top of the cutter box, he had to stand on the seat to keep out of it. 15 eggs to day. Saturday 25 March 1905 A foggy morning sun shines out dismaly [sic]. Thawing of course. I washed breakfast dishes. Maud cleaned the floors. Voltie went to Sams to ask Charley to drive to Will Gilespie’s with him. Charley sick with cold. V went on horseback to keep his feet from getting wet. Came back & went to Niles’ to ask Wallace to go to River View with him for rubber boots. Wall gone up to visit Shell. Jack went instead. They started after dinner and walked across the ice to Beadles and then to the corners and returned at 5 pm. found slush and water but very good ice. V remailed my letter to JB Mills. �70 Monday 10 April 1905 "April showers bring forth may flowers" and also it thundered. We catch some water to wash with. Sr fixed an old sweat collar (one of his rainy day jobs). Irene churns, wash dishes, saw flower seeds and transplant tomatos. Tuesday 11 April 1905 Very foggy morning. Irene washed dishes & separator, Maud made cake, boiled beef, pared potatoes. Voltie plowing over here a very little snow left yet. ice still clings to shore. V set another hen. R’s old hen �71 Wednesday 12 April 1905 A brilliant warm day plowing and brushing over there, work on rugs. 23 eggs to day. Maud abed all fore noon. Irene cooked the meals, washed separator, churned, washed all the dishes. Thursday 18 April 1905 A very fine day but not so warm as yesterday, darned stockings, cut a few rags, getting nearly out of rags. Maud washed the curtains and a few towels. �72 Friday 14 April 1905 A cool pleasant day, made the butter into prints 11 lbs. counted the eggs. 17-1/2 doz. Worked at rags. Saturday 15 April 1905 A very pleasant day. Voltie drove to Villiage for cultivator he borrowed J Nile’s double cart. Called at Belles. Marjorie visiting at her grandmother’s H’s. Belle sent carrots and a new kind of tomato seed and coffie berry seed. Voltie forgot the ginger. He came early. White wash brush to course Sunday 16 April 1905 A cold miserable sort of a day, snow squalls and freezing ground white with snow. Wind N.W. alone all day no visitors but enjoyed a comfortable quiet Sabath day reading and cooking our meals. Harvey H here in p.m. �73 Monday 17 April 1905 A dismal cold day frozed up again, cold wind clouds continualy arising in the S.W. Voltie goes to the villiage again this morning with a portion of his new cultivator which he found defective. A light snow partly concealing the earth. Voltie wore his heavy fur overcoat and drove up in buggy carrying eggs, butter 11. Sunday 30 April 1905 Long time since I wrote in this diary 13 days ago; been so busy house cleaning making rugs and carpet, many things and incidents occur within 18 days. Maud went to market Thursday with 21 lbs butter & two fowls, went to Grace’s for dinner. Beatrice there helping Grace about spring house cleaning. M met her dad in town and Ben and Will (her brothers). Belle got inflamatory rheumatitis in feet and ancles [sic] cant walk. H Halliday here last Sunday �74 sent for strawberry plants 28 eggs and also wrote to Ed Bates to look out for plants. Saturday 29 Apr 190 rainy all day. Sunday 30 April 1905 A cool day, ground very wet, floating cloud. Wind S.W. Charley Woodman here. I gave him a pumkin [sic] pie for his dinner, he borrowed V’s buggy to drive to the villiage for Miss Eva Pike, his fiancee. V sent Sam a bottle of wine. I suppose it never left his mouth till the bottle was empty. Henderson came after a while, he looks as though he wanted a drink of cider but he will go empty. Well dinner is past and dishes washed & nearly 1/2 past 4 p.m. Sr reading Dispatch. V reading Herald. Maud reading. I’m going to write to Amanda but I dont want to. �75 Monday 1st May 1905 Volta goes to Arch Berrys for seed oats. Sylvia came bringing the pie plate. Miss Pike came after school she wiped the supper dishes, a chilly day Miss Pike wearing fur coat Tuesday 2nd May 1905 A dreary dismal day, chilly and wet. Dick Maloney tells VRachel is at Gloyds and wants V to come over for her. Dawson Beadle rowed over bringing all our garden seeds from F.B. Mills. Volta gave him 20 ducks eggs and 1/2 bushel seed potatoes. Wednesday 3rd May 1905 Dreary nasty rainy day. V & Sr trying to plant potato ground. We churn and print 18 lbs butter for market. I plant one seed "Bird of Paradise". V went across for Rachel. This diary is continued on page 1. �76 March Mail Dispatch Whig Herald A postal from New Thought March 7. Hearthstone Woman’s World Good Litterature New Thought A Book the sticked minister March 10 Home Magazine Seeds and catalogue from lowe 14th March North Western Agricultural Hearth and home Woman’s farm journal Tuesday 21 Good Stories House hold Guest Tuesday 29 Vickerys Fireside 2 Comforts American Home Letters 1 from John postal from Nell a letter about Lindys island 14 Letter from Gladys 21 letter from Gladys A letter from KB Mills about a 5 ct with a hole in it from Flora from Flora From Grace From Watson From Bob 31 from Gladys �77 [images: stamped pictures of various animals] MaudeWatson St Lawrence PO Wolfe Island Ont Canada Miss Marjorie Halliday Miss Maude Watson| Maude Watson C.L.M.W. A.W.V. Asher Core Pearl Lewis �78 V 5 Equitorial Africa V 9 A thousand miles up Nile V 11 The Pioneers V 16 Looker on in London Treasure Island. Stevenson David Harum Rowing in Boston A daughter of Fife Chimmie Fadden Anne Woolson Samantha among colored folks �79 Upstairs on lower left Bert 415 W Main St �80 [affixed stamp] PHOTOMOUNT PAMPHLET BINDER Manufactured by GAYLORD BROS, Inc. Syracuse, N. Y. Stockton, Calif. �81 �This document would not be possible without the editorial contributions of the following people: Ann Hopkinson, MaryV, Vivian Zhang, Eric Irvine, carol ann, Ella Deering, and Queen’s University Archives � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Collection Subject The topic of the resource 19th and 20th Century Rural Ontario Diaries Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Courtesy of Queen's University Archives Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1887-1922 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Frontenac County, Wolfe Island, Ontario Table Of Contents A list of subunits of the resource. Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1887 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1888-1889 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1889-1897 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1890 March - June Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1893-1895 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1895-1899 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1896 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1897-1898 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1898 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1899 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1899-1900 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1900 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1902, 1906 parts of Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1902-1909 parts of Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1904-1905 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1907 & 1918 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1908-1919 parts of Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1911 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1913 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1913-1914 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1915-1916 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1916-1917 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1917-1918 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1918 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1921-1922 Language A language of the resource English Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1904-1905 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Courtesy of Queen's University Archives Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1904 October to 1905 May Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 20th Century, Frontenac County, Wolfe Island, Ontario Date Created Date of creation of the resource. October 25th, 1904 (p. 6) Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Collection Medium The material or physical carrier of the resource. Typed Transcription UG Transcription Progress Scripto transcription progress Done transcribed https://ruraldiaries.lib.uoguelph.ca/transcribe/files/original/5fe93634dfacac2e4c2a485721afc17f.pdf ecb6d5f38c1c88e5a3449ccd6a29df62 PDF Text Text Irene Dixon Bamford parts of 1902-1909, Diary Transcription 5034_4-1-15 �Metadata FromThePage export of 5034_4-1-15 from Irene Dixon Bamford made on 2026-02-11 14:35:19 UTC. itemTitle: Parts of 1902-1903-1904-1906-1909 date: 1902-1909 Title: 5034_4-1-15 Description: Item is a diary. Created On: 2024-01-11 17:49:40 UTC In Scope: true Uploaded Filename: 5034_4-1-15 �1 IRENE DIXON BAMFORD DIARY: Parts of 1902-1903-1904-1906-1909 1902-1909 [stamp] QUEENS UNIVERSITY ARCHIVES LOCATOR 5034.4 BOX 1 FILE 15 �2 Parts of 1902-1903-1904-1906-1909 �3 [Manufacturing stamp] PAMPHLET BINDER [logo] Manufactured by GAYLORD BROS, Inc. Syracuse, N.Y. Stockton, Calif. �4 [stamp] Some 1902 & 1903 R Wednesday 7th Jan 1903 A January day. I helped get dinner. Voltie working on sleighs. Walace came towards evening. A dance at Frank W’s. Voltie, Maud, Irene, Wallace, Lennie all go down to F’s after dark. Len fell in rock hole going down Thursday 2nd April 1903 Arise and call Voltie at 4 sharp. It looks like a storm and I think I will stay home and not go to Belles. Voltie starts at six a.m. He borrowed Charleys old buggy and drove double. The wind rising a blows a half gale all day. Maud whitewashed and cleaned the kitchen. Maud and I are tired and look in vain for Volties comming till long after dark. Dark heavy clouds lying off in the west. Sharp lightning and heavy thunder and Prince comes whining at the door to get in, he is afraid of thunder, we let him in and he cralls [sic] away in the corner behind the stove, the old fool! The supper is kept warm in the oven for Voltie. At last we hear a prolonged whistle and we know Voltie has arrived amid thunder & lightning and now prince goes to the door to get out and Sr, lantern in hand, and Prince goes to the barn and beling the stacks to pilot Volty around the corner and throughs the bars and soon he comes in ladened with baskets and �5 Thursday 8 Jan 1803 A very good day. I dont feel very well yet but helped get dinner. Voltie and the girls got the breakfast after being out to the dance till midnight at Frank W’s. Rachel came over to stay she slept with Irene & Maud slept with me. bundles accompanied by Albert Joy the great electrician. I supposed he was going to stay all night but after tea and raspberries, and helping V water the horses, he concluded he would go home and he went, forgeting his over coat. Well I wash dishes and mix the biscuits all ready to bake in the morning and Maud pares the potatoes, and finally we are settled and gone to the land of nod and dreams, wishing we could stay there a long time. O Lord! Friday 3rd of April 1903 I slept like a top all night with the wind roaring around the house from the South. Awoke this morning to find queer looking clouds piled fold upon fold a strange weird looking morning which finaly consolidates into fog and rain which comes pouring. �6 Friday 9th January 1903 A cold stormy snowy day. Wind I am better I think, Dont do house work only fix socks. Rachel mixed and baked bread & pies & helped the girls about getting the meals after dinner, went home to see about things & wore Mauds red hood. Sent old W.F.W. a letter, R sent one to Will. Maud went to post office came back covered white with snow. Had boiled pork for dinner very good. Voltie working on sleighs. Old man working on something in stable. R came over to stay all night got no wood, brought her rug yesterday she came over. Expected a letter from Grace but received none. I hope they are well. down in torrets, filling barrel and tub in a few minutes and continues falling all day. V tried to plow in the garden to set raspberry bushes but put the team in stable and went to work in shop. Sr fell the dear old poplar tree where the woodpeckers made their nests in the holes every year, then he made sweat collars for horses. After dinner writes in this old diary and nod away. Wall came down and gone to the shop to visit with Voltie. Mail Whig, Homes, Herald, letter from Grace. Albert Roy there again to supper. He just came from over the river in a small skiff wet through to his pelt the rest of his pants looks as if he had sat down in a pail or tub of water. Voltie gave him dry clothes and says Albert is crabby. �7 58 Saturday 10 January 1903 A bright sunshiny day, river frozen over to the other shore. Al Joslin & Frank Woodman here to dinner. Rachel went home, rode over with Voltie came back and brought her canned fruit, 18 cans to be put in our cellar. Found her dog sitting on her veranda. R and M scoured the dining room floor. I feel some better to day. After dinner V carried A. Joslin home Miss OBrien came to pay R ,40 cts for a duck. R churned and made drop cakes and canned sweet apples. I go to bed early dont feel very well. Saturday 4 April 1903 Wind N. freezing, snowy and blowing all night; a dismal looking morn ground white with snow every where, and only day before yesterday Charley Woodman sowed 20 bushels grain. V working shop. Sr drawing out straw on the jumper and spreading it on the point. Maud cleaned floors and made three beautiful cakes, one of them is for Grace’s birth day. Irene pieces 4 blocks for quilt and help do the work. In the evening we all read. Freezing hard. The sun comes out in afternoon but not warm; a clear sun set �8 Sunday 11 January 1903 A cloudy morning not cold Wind South and quiet. River closed in with ice from shore to shore. Am better again this morning. R and the girls in kitchen doing the breakfast dishes and seperators. Voltie brought up from cellar and got me a big apple, a bell Flower, a beauty; he is going to send his grandmother some apples. Think I will write a letter either to Johny or Will or Poor dear Edith. Snow falling heavily all day. Maud & June go to church. Len Patterson here in evening laughing and te he ing about nothing, stays till 1/2 past 10 Sunday 5 April 1903 A clear bright morning but very cold. N wind yet, but very quiet, froze very hard. Maud washes nearly all the breakfast dishes; I help a little and wash scald separator. Maud goes to church forenoon service Voltie goes over the river to Beadles with barley for Will and did not get back till long after dinner and dishes all washed. Heard a rap at kitchen door and Wells bade them "come in" and in walked the electrition, having driven over in buggy, hitched his horse to the gate post, came for his oars and for a neighborly visit. Maud and Irene were both invisible. Maud at church where she had gone to meet Shell and Inez to practice a new hymn on the church organ, then Voltie came and they went �9 60 Monday 12th January 1903 A pleasant morning wind west and freezing, cloudy nearly all day. Rachel and Maud and Irene picked over a bushel of wheat free from cockle seed and wild peas. V going to get it ground for graham bread. Irene Sr mended stocking and washed dinner dishes and made 10 more lbs butter & now I have 20 lbs of butter ready for market. Rachel set up a pair of mittens for Voltie. Old man, cross but no body cares swore too. The weather cold and freezing at bed time to see the pigs, and Albert didn’t come back any more. V came home dinnerless and helped himself in pantry and I just sat down for a quiet reading time when the kitchen door opens without a rap and in walks D.D. Bamford & Jay Lee both loaded to the muzzle with hard cider and noisy. I began to look around for some place and means of escape when "Where is Aunt Rend" in dining room and Jay Lee comes in with a great "How do you do"! and puts out his hand and grasps and shakes hand with a fervor and grip like a Methodist preacher and hauled up our disabled rocker, and sat down in it so forcibly, that the poor old chair gave way in every joint and settled with a squat. �10 61 Tuesday 13 January 1903 Freezing all night. Voltie says could cross with horse this morning. Cloudy and looks like more snow. Maud & Irene washing dishes. Maud on ice skating nearly all forenoon and afternoon. Wallace & Will Niles walked across the river this morning. Voltie drove over to Geo Rattray’s with a grist this morning; pig feed & Graham flour. After dinner Voltie walked over the river and went to the corners to see about the Sears and Roebuck things which are being sent through from Chicago to Rosiere. When they arrive by express Eddie Bates will bring them over. Voltie is very tired. But sets up and tries to instruct M and I in the misteries of playing the game called Nations. Lennie brings the mail mail to us. Len is a good boy but R hates him and calls him a niger. Poor Len. nearly to the floor. I yelled "Get out of that you’ll smash the chair sure" but he would not budge from his roost. And then began a garrilous detailed discription of his life at Windmills, which was a mixture of ridiculous, ludicorous, pathetic, obscenity, which I would like to record in this my diary, but decency forbids. After a while I look towards the open door of the kitchen and discover Van with his yaup going �11 62 Wednesday 15th of January 1903 A cloudy day snow everywhere with now and then a flake lightly falling. Rachel gone over to clar up before going over the river to make an all winter’s visit. She sent her pork, flour and lard & sugar over. Voltie drove to Rattray’s for the grist; we made Graham biscuits for dinner very good but coarse. Shell, Maud & Jack going skating. Irene poor darling has no skates so came back to the house. May Ranous here for mission money had none for her. I helped get dinner, washed the dinner dishes, and washed, churn &c. and I say "Hellow Van" he says "I wont do it. I’m mad at ye. What for? cause you never come over to see me. no! I always have to come to see you and I’ll never come again." Of course it was our cider they were after and they got it and their supper to. I can tolerate Van but I don’t like Jay Lee. �12 63 Thursday 16 Jan 1903 A cloudy day, light snow falling not very cold; 2 below zero, done a little work to day. Voltie butchered 3 hogs, Frank Woodman & Dave Reid helping. R set up a pair of mittens for Maud. Maud made a cake for the party at Geo Niles. No good. made another very good. Wall drove for them ie. Voltie, Maud & Irene. Irene was the belle of the party came home at 2 pm all right. Mnday 6 April 1903 A very good morning, NE wind. I so lame can scarcely get around to do the work. Maud washing all clothes. She going to get our clothes on the line before Samy does this time, but she didn’t. I wash dishes, separator, get the dinner and after dishes washed I washed three pair of old overalls. Robert and Sid Percey came bringing Rachel over, drank cider and then went home. �13 64 Friday 16 Jan 1903 Cloudy, light snow falling not cold A.M. Voltie cut up the pork. I cook beef for dinner. R finishes Maude’s mittens. Irene break teacup & plate accidently. I churn & make 6 more butter prints for market which addition counts 26 lbs., put 1 1/2 doz eggs in basket for market, fill a basket for Grace. Maud goes skating in evening with Shell, Inez Wallace, Jack & Lennie came in at 9 pm. R and Irene goes for the mail, Whig, Herald, Good Stories, Happy hours, no letters. Saturday morning 17 Jan 1903 Arose at 4 and get breakfast for Voltie and Frank Woodman; both going to the city. Voltie carrying 26 lbs butter, 1 1/2 doz eggs, 2 hogs. I send Grace a basket. Frank carrying a a heavy basket of chickens. R made a few cookies and too pies, cleaned dinning room floor, forget what I done. V came home at 9 pm didn’t get coal and left dad’s boots in town but brought granulated & brown sugar, skates for Irene, pills, oatmeal, soap, tea, glue, ginger, bowls, bolts, &c &c. Says he is going to the Sailors ball and take Maud, Margarette, Irene. Tuesday evening V & F stoped at Charlies & had supper. �14 65 Sunday 18 January 1903 A beautiful day, froze last night. Wind west. R picked up her pack and V took her across the river in single bob sleigh. Frank went with him. V says Charley H has been over to Wellies. Len P here. Maud went on skates to Mrs Niles to get her to finish her waist for the ball. Irene & Maud went skating all pm 7 April Monday �15 66 This months Magazines March Good Stories April American Woman April Good litterature April Woman’s Magazine April New Thought Brown Book Good litterature Woman’s World April Woman’s Farm Journal Hearth & home 24 March Comfort 24 March Wednesday 9 April A nasty day, I churned and made prints, 15 for market, sent Grace one American Home The St Paul Weekly Despatch Northwestern Agriculturist �16 67 Thursday 10 April Arose at 4 am didn’t sleep much after 3 am for watching the clock for 4 am. V and Maud and R went to Kingston. I worked steady all day, began to rain towards night. Sr started before six pm carrying umbrella and shawl for Maud. They came at 9, wet and cold and hungry but I had a good hot fire and a good hot supper. Lennie came soon after dark and staid till their return. Friday 11 April 1903 A very good day. R wants to go to see Mrs Morgan who is very sick but didn’t like to walk so far but worked on the quilt instead. V worked in shop. Evening mail, Herald, Whig, News, Womans World, Hearth and Home, Good Stories. Mauds silk for waist. Maud went up to Mrs Niles in evening and staid till 9 pm. I received a letter from Wellie also we churned to day. �17 68 Monday 19 January 1903 A very good winter day. Eddy Bates here to dinner so we get all the news from Wellie, Johny and Wills family. Voltie went to show Edy over the cracked ice. Saturday 12 April 1903 A very fine day no rain. Voltie plows for potatoes. Rachel takes of the tiedown quilt. Maud [illegible] very well indigestion. She made a cake and wiped up the floor. I worked till my feet acke. I sowed cabbage seed and caught a slight cold. Mrs Niles and her daughters here this evening. �18 69 Tuesday 20 January 1903 A very good day. Voltie and Maud started early this morning for Kingston driving up on the ice, carrying 5 turkeys and and a barrel of apples to market then came back after (Maud went to Graces awhile) to Belle’s and after supper Wallace took Marjorie to the Ball. Voltie taking Maud and Beatrice Irene and Irene were alone all day except grandad as at home of course. No I realy should not forgot that Will and Charley came over accompanied by Frank. They come just in time for dinner and were sorry Voltie was not home. Monday 14 April 1903 Easter Monday Wind North cool and breezy. R made self an apron. Maude white washed, cleaned the wood work and R helped her paper the big room in Chamber. I done house work and cooked the meals. V plowing. The weather is dry and clear. �19 70 Wednesday 21 January 1895 A great fall of snow last night over a foot deep every where. It is the morning after the ball and Maud and Voltie come poking along home, driving down on the ice. Voltie brought some coal 2 bags left, 3 bags at Charlie’s and 15 hundred in Kingston. He bought himself a new suit of clothes. Voltie dont feel very well and went to bed, but Maud kept up all day and sung and danced and laughed and worked till after supper. I drove her off to bed. Tuesday 15th April 1903 �20 71 Thursday 22 January 1903 A tolerable fair day. Wells and Voltie bush out a road to Lindy’s. I was scrubing the pantry floor when the girls said a cutter was coming in here which proved to be the PreacherMr. Wheatley, he put out his horse and stayed to dinner. The roads are full of snow and hard traveling. Wednesday 16 April 1903 A dirty cold rainy drizzling day Ellie Woodman came here and bought Voltie’s skiff $40 dollars. Sr & V cleaning up grain at the grainery. �21 Friday 23rd January 1903 A cold day. I write and send a letter for Voltie to the Massey Harris Co. Maud writes to her father and Irene takes both letters to the Post office. Maud cleans the kitchen floor, dear little Maud. Wells and V went for a jag of wood to Lindy’s. We cleaned pantry and washed clothes and Maud cleaned kitchen floor Thursday 17th April 1903 Arose at 4 got breakfast for Voltie. Wells Sr drove to the dock with Voltie he going up to pay the Massey-Harris note. Maud and I done big washing. R finished her apron and helped get the meals. Wells hustled around and done the chores and ate supper and started for the dock, came home at 7 p.m. [Voltie|V]] didnot see Ellie Woodman in Town He ate dinner with Grace. Bob gone. I sent for nothing this day. I churned &c Wells brought the news that Mrs Morgan is better. Uncle Sam is sick Sylvia here for mustard. Lizzie there doing the work. Friday 8th May I sent to Sears and Roebucks for a hat for Maud. A beautiful day yesterday Maud went to Kingston. It rained near all day and it was a much needed rain. �22 73 Saturday 24 January 1903 A very cold day. 18 below zero. Wells and Voltie drew a load of wood from Lindy’s. Voltie this morning went for the mail. A letter from Grace. Whig, Herald, Two "new Thought magazines and a book the heart of the New Thought"—very fine. Frank Woodman gone to Will Dixons looking for a farm, Frank got the morning fever again. Friday 18 April 1903 Wind N.W. Froze Last night, cold this morning. A clear bright day. Voltie did not work in field this morning till after dinner, but instead put up the wee stove in dining room, bored holes in the quilting frames. Rachel making beeswax Maud ironing and working at chamber putting up curtains. Wells fixing stable floors. Rats eating up all our young chickens, grass getting green on the point. Sunday 3rd May 1903 A cool day, cloudy. Frank & Emma came over. Eddy Bates here too and Len Patterson here too, had fish for dinner &c, began to rain towards night. �23 74 Sunday 25 January 1903 A quiet peaceful day. Voltie made himself a pair of leather mittens. We cook and read and daze. No one here but Lennie towards eve to borrow V’s robes for Lennie and Charlie are going driving. The weather is wintry enough. Great body of snow covers the Earth far and wide. Cloudy and snow lightly falling. Frank not home yet from farm hunting. Monday 4th May 1903. Voltie set a hen on hens eggs 16. A cold morning for a May morning. It rained yesterday pm, the first rain for a long time. The Spring is very backward. Rachel churned this morn We built a fire in the pine knot. Maud is flying around at work. Sr chopping or splitting wood May 9th Saturday 1903 A beautiful May morning. Maud drove to the villiage with Addie Percey and little son. Wells rowed across the river with Voltie to River view. V going to Joslin’s and from there to Wellies, he is going to look for a farm. Sunday A fine day not so warm as yesterday. Maud went to church. �24 75 Monday 26 January 1903 A cloudy mild day. Voltie and Sr drawing wood from Lindy’s island. Maud swept and made all the beds and melted snow to clean floors. Irene Sr made apple pies. Irene Jr helped wash dishes. 7 eggs to day which makes 33 new laid eggs beside Voltie sold 30 which makes 63 besides we used 10 which is 73 new laid eggs altogether this winter. After dinner Maud washing a few things. Sr & V gone for more wood. They drew two loads to day. Tuesday 27 January 1903 Wind South, snow drifting, a very mild sunlight lifting through clouds. No drawing wood from the island this day. Maud washing breakfast dishes; Irene Jr washing seperator. The men at the barn and shop doing—I dont know what. Can’t send letters to day on account of drifts. Maude went to post office carrying a lantern. Stoped on the ice talking with Patterson. Voltie called them and they came bringing Whig, Good Litterature & Happy homes & Vickerys fire side and best of all a letter from Johny. �25 76 Wednesday 28 January 1903 A soft cloudy foggy day scarcely any wind, snow settling fast. Wallace here for masquerade suits. After dinner Edy Bates drove in here from across the river thought he had brought the merchandize which is to be sent form Chicago but doomed to disapointment. Nothing came. Voltie working in shop ironing off sleighs. Thursday 29 January 1903 Didnt think when I arose this morning that 10 O’clock A.M. would find me at Charleys. Voltie, Irene and I started at 8 a.m. drove up on the ice & through big bay and the canal till we came to the old barn by Brown’s, where we turned off and drove to Belles. Charley gone to villiage for groceries brought brought sodas and oysters, candy. Voltie went up to get the black colt Topsy shod for the first time. The ice covered with soft snow and water hard traveling some of the way. Voltie didn’t come till after dark, black smith had gone to a funeral. A great thunder and light storm and we staid all night. Will H Woodman stayed too. We had a fine visit. �26 77 Friday 30 January 1903 Voltie and I started from Belles at 8 a.m. found the roads bad for traveling slumpy, horses sometimes going in up to their knees floundering and came nearly tipping over several times and to add to our greater discomfort the west wind blowing a gale but arrived home at 1/2 past 10 all right, went straight to getting dinner, but Maud had the house all tidied up very fine, cakes baked and a big plate full of sweet apples the remainder of the day employed itself in snow squalls and blizzards from the S.W. I tired and sleepy and go to bed at 1/2 past 7. Maud sleeping with me. Weather so bad cant go to PG this eve Saturday 31st and last day of week and last of Jan 1903. A blizzardy morning but partly clears up at noon. Our hens eating their eggs about as fast as laid. Voltie working in shop at sleigh building; dont know what Sr does. Maud cleaned all the floors. After dinner Maud goes to Mrs Niles for subscription for American woman Inez came home with her,—came for milk for coffee, staid for supper and till after the cows were milked. In evening sat up and read, commenced a new quilt log cabin pieced one block and a half. �27 78 Sunday 1st day of February 1903 A very good day for skating but not very clear. Maud, (after work if done up) skates with Inez nearly all fore noon. Voltie reading Herald while we were at morning dishes. Voltie and Johny Wilson run the pike net and got only one fish, a pike which I clean and cook for dinner. While we were eating dinner a cutter came to the door which proved to be Henry Halliday and Beatrice. They had been to dinner. Beatrice had a dish of pudding & a cup of tea with us. She came for instruction in embroidery. Voltie and Henry drove across the ice to Maloney’s while Maud and Beatrice go skating. Beatrice a Noviciate in the art of skating. Inez and Maurice Maloney on skates too. Henry and Voltie came back accompanied by Dick M Frank and Dave Reid and Johny Wilson helped Voltie set the fish net. We sat up and read but no visitors. I see Sr had commenced to keep diary. �28 79 Monday 2nd February 1903 A soft morning & so foggy can scarcely see the barn. V drove our old pig to Joys and then helped Frank butcher 5 pigs. Callers for the barn Johny Willson, Wallace Niles, Jackey Niles, Dave Reid, Len Patterson, Geo Ratray. Voltie came home at noon cleaned up a grist and got ready for going to Kingston tomorrow. But dont think he will for towards evening it thunders and rains. The fields are pretty much bare every where. I churned and got the butter and eggs ready for market. Sr caught one eating her egg as soon as laid it. This is the anniversary of my wedding day 43 years ago. The bear cant see a shadow to day. Tuesday 3rd February 1903 Voltie arose at 5 am look out thought it was to soft to go to Town so went back to bed for another snooze but just before we sat down to breakfast Johny Willson came up to see why V didnt’ come down and bring old Nell but V sent Nell by JW and said Frank was to drive here so he hustled around and got started carrying 16 lbs butter, 4 1/2 doz eggs [illegible] grist to mill a bag of potatoes for Grace was going to carry her a bag of apples but had too full load. JW went along too a beautiful day for the first time in a while ago. [illegible] on to [illegible] dug snow with the hoe to wash �29 80 Maud and I washed quite big washing, grows cloudy again. Shell came for Maud to go skating and stay till after tea and from there to P.O. where she got our mail and went back home with Shell and then went skating till 8 p.m. Jay Joy here in evening setting out in kitchen no one talking to him. I went out gave him an apple from groceries apple bag. After awhile he went home. Poor little Jay is terrible homely, marked after one of the "fools" Evening mail News, Whig, American Woman, Brown book, two letters from Hugh Birch & McKelvey and Massey Harris co. About 8 1/2 Voltie comes accompanied by a cousin who I had never before seen. A Mr Charles Dixon from Detroit a fine good looking loquacious man, we sat up till 11 pm. and spun all kinds of yarns, ancient, past and present. Voltie was thoughtful in bringing home a good supply of eatables, bread, cookies, cake, cheese, pickles, flour, rice, broom, borax, currants, raisons, tea, rolled oats, peppers, cinnamon, extracts &c. The wind blows and snows when we go to bed. �30 27 Wednesday 4th February 1803 Every thing covered with ice this morning raining and freezing. The seperator a curiosity to Mr Dixon from Detroit. After breakfast Cousin Charley and Devolson walk across the ice and go to Depauville to visit Will Dixon and his family . The weather clears up at noon and the sun shines out once more. Well, Maud and I pass rather a lazy day. Not doing much but I must make mince pies, sure did not make pies after all. Lennie drove here in evening to invite Maud and Voltie to a party at Charley Halliday’s Rather cheeky I think. It is like inviting me to a party to be held at our own house. A surprise party indeed! Well Belle and Charley will not be surprized by any of my family’s intrusion. Thursday 5th February 1903. A bright morning, ground covered with ice and snow which fell last night. Some colder froze in the night. Maud clearing floors, made beds and swept. I made mince pie for dinner washed dishes and seperator. Inez here for Maud to go to Charley Hallidays the party to night, but no go. Tis 3 pm and Voltie and Cousin C not here yet. [illegible] here to borrow cutter robe for Frank. Len here too �31 82 Friday 6 February 1903 A beautiful morning very light wind S.E. Two cutters went across this morning. Mr Maloney and his son Richard walked across to Mr Niles this morning. Maud out trying the skating Ten a.m. V & C not yet arrived. Put two mince pies & two mince turnovers in the oven 10 Wish I could write a beautiful hand but the more I write the worse it looks. Old W.F.W. dont write, guess he’s mad. Dont care much. "New Thought" says we can accompish any thing we persevere in doing. I wonder if I could succeed in eradicating the wrinkles from my face. Dont believe a woman sixty nine years old can do any such thing. Voltie & Charley came in time for dinner. Voltie bringing the Sears & Roebuck merchandize with him, a pair of overshoes for his dad, a pair of shoulder braces for me (though I dont need them, but may sometime), a lot of tools for himself, and a beautiful set of glass dishes for me. After dinner, Voltie drives to the city with Charley I’m sorry to see my new found Cousin go; he is a fine man. Voltie came home at 1/2 past 10 p.m. Maud received a letter from her father and a beautiful piece of cloth for a waist and three samples of silk to [illegible] from for another waist. Poor Welsey [illegible] �32 83 Saturday 7th February 1903 A beautiful day wind N and froze last night, so they can draw wood from Lindy’s. 3 loads to day with one horse (old Nell). Maud and I work around the house all day. Maud cleaned and polished the coal stove, cleaned windows, lamps, floors; Irene got the meals, washed dishes seperator besides churning. The cream was to cold, and the butter was hard and a long time churning. Voltie said Belle is coming down this evening but dont come. Mr and Mrs Niles & Shell & Jack gone visiting some where down the island; they drove in here for their robe that V borrowed yesterday because Frank W borrowed ours and didn’t bring or send it home this time for Voltie when he went up yesterday to town. Clear bright sunset and a beautiful moon lit night Sunday 8th February 1903 Awoke this morning to find a great snow storm in operation, coming from N.E. This storm must be Hick’s prediction has begun for he prophetized a great storm between the 8th and 10th. I dont think Belle & Charley will come down to day: wish they could come. Voltie has not run his net since last sunday a week a go to day. Stormed and blew all day; a big fall of snow but drifting. No one came but John Wilson for a jug of cider for Frank and Bob Reid for which he paid 20 cts and Voltie gave it me for postage continued on page [illegible] �33 August 23rd Friday 1902 This is my new diary which Maud bought yesterday for me, in Kingston. "Roll back O tide of time and raise, the past events of other days." which are gone forever. Only a few years ago it seemed since Maud was a baby when her father brought her here to me and laid her in my arms, fast asleep. How well I remember laying her on the bed, till tea time when she awoke for her supper, and I made the discovery that she was cross eyed and remember the first words I ever heard her speak as she sat in the high chair at table, when hearing the clock tick "Me [illegiblell] faid monshes" What a change a few years have wrought She goes to market for me now and is nearly 18 years old. Little did I think at that time she would live and a home with us all these long years. But we cannot tell how a year or even a day may unfold. It was only yesterday morning by a terrific storm of thunder, lightning, rain and enormous hail stones, my beautiful flower garden was utterly destroyed by hail. The force of the storm destroyed standing crops of hay and grain over a wide extent of country. �34 17th January 1903 [Date] [description] [Price] 17 Jan Sold 26 lbs butter at 20 cts per lb $5,20 3rd Feb " 16 " " " " " " $3,20 " "9"""""" $1,80 " "7"""""" $1,40 1 March "6"""""" $1,20 2nd April " 25 " " " " " " $5,00 10 April " 14 " " " 21 cts per lb $2,94 13 April " 18 " " " 20 p lb $3,60 14 April " 12 " " " 20 p lb $2,40 ? May " 14 " " " 20 $2,80 ? May " 22 " " " 20 $4,40 28th May " 30 " " " 20 $6,00 4th June " 26 " " " 20 $5,20 11 June " 22 " " " 20 $4,40 18 June " 21 " " " 20 $4,20 25 June " 20 " " " 20 $4,00 ? July " 20 " " " 20 $4,00 ? July " 22 " " " 20 $4,40 9th July " 24 " " " 20 $4,80 16th July " 32 " " " 20 $6,40 23rd July " 28 " " " 20 $5,60 �30 July 23 $82,90 5 Aug 26 p 20 $27,00 12 Aug 34 ,23 [illegible] ? Aug " 33 ,23 [illegible] ? Aug " 32 ,20 [illegible] �35 17 January 1903 [date] [description] [Amt] our first eggs Sold 30 at ,30cts per doz ,45 3rd Feb " " 4 1/2 doz at 23 per doz $1, 03 20th Feb " " 4 " " ,20 " " ,80 2nd April " " 7 1/2 " " ,11 " " ,83 10 April " " 6 " " ,12 " " ,72 23 April " " 5 " " 12 ,60 31 April " " 2 " " 12 ,24 7 May " 2 1/2 " " ,30 Thursday December 29 1910 A Mice �36 3 Monday 9th February 1903 Just a little cloudy this morning. And the wind continues to blow lightly. Towards noon the sun comes out bright and warm, and after dinner, Voltie and dad hitch Nell before cutter and go bush a road to Lindy’s again. The snow tis heavy and deep on the ice. Henry Halliday drove in here with his fine span of horses $400 dollars he says is the price. The Maloney Boys were with him leading a horse they had bought of Mary Murphy. They were inquiring for Voltie for to get their horse shod but he was gone to the island so they led the horse across the ice following his track. Evening brings the joyful news that old muley had a calf (heifer) which means more butter for market, besides milk for the pigs. I write a long letter to Johny and Maude writes to her father. Tuesday 10 Februry Cloudy this morning but proves to be a fine day bright and warm and thawing. Voltie and his dad draw two loads of wood from Lindys before dinner. All Joslin & Voltie going over with them for second load. After dinner Voltie hitches up and drives the span of colts down the road they go very together. He drove in to Franks and Frank paid him $8,00 which he owed him. Maud made a batch of cookies very [illegible]. I do all sorts of odds and ends. I looked for Belle but she dont come. �37 4 Garden island tomorrow if the weather is favourable. Lennie here inviting to a party at Horn’s tomorrow eve. He and Voltie go down to Franks, didn’t get home till bed time. Maud went for mail. Whig, Good Stories, Woman Magazine and an invitation for Voltie to attend a masquerade ball at Marshalls Hall Grindstone island. Wednesday 11 Februry 1903 A cloudy morning looks like a storm froze a little last night. Voltie loaded on his log this morning and gone to Garden Island to get the log sawed towards building the new ice house. Carried Grace a bag of apples that has stood in the kitchen nearly two weeks suppose they are all nearly rotten; hope not. Maud working. Looked out and saw Charley, Belle and two young children coming, came in time for dinner. Glad to see Belle; but "Henry the Kid" is a terror bawl, scream and yell all the time; wants every thing. Soon as Belle took his duds off & walked into the pantry pulled the cover off the bread can and began dragging it around, grabbed a handful of flour out of the flour can and went at the seperator. Voltie came after dark. A party at Alice Micheas. Voltie and Maud didn’t go �38 7 Feb 3rd Tuesday 1903 Groceries 1 broom, 6 lbs rice, 1 lb tea, 1 raisons, 1 currants, pepper, cinnamon, 1/2 dozen lemons, rolled oats, bread, cookies, cakes, cheese, pickles, flour, borax, extract raspberry February Wednesday 6 bars surprise soap, 8 rolled oats, vial olive oil Feb 20th 6 lbs granulated sugar, 1 box great cakes, 2 spools thread, 4 yds shaker flannel for quilt lining, 6 lbs seed oats, 1 box baking powder, 3 yds narrow black ribon 3 February one lb tea, Winter green oil Quantities bought 25th February 1903 12 plates, 12 cups, 12 sucers, 12 small plates, 1 steamer, 1 enameled wash basin, 1 agate dipper, 1 whisk Feb 28 100 lbs sugar, 1 lbs tea, 5 currants, 8 lbs rolled wheat 3 yds lace white, 1 rubber crochet hook, 1 pkt diamond dye, 5 U.S.A. postage stamps 10 cts, 4 doz clothes pins March 7th 1 yd pillow ticking, 2 1/2 seemless sheeting, 6 bars comfort soap, 1 head cabbage, 1 peck onions 30 lbs, granulated sugar, three rolls batten, matches, buckwheat flour, 15 hundred shingles, hammer, [illegible], 1 butter basket March 6 3/4 qts kerosine, 5 lb rolled oats with a porrige dish [illegible] cabbage seed, sand paper �39 8 Saturday 14 February 1903 Not a very bad day. Voltie goes over the river to help move Frank Woodman after taking a snooze in bed. Belle goes over with Voltie as far as James Gloyd’s leaving here she cried some but was a very good child all the while her mother was gone Sunday 15 February 1903 A very pleasant day everything quiet till noon when Voltie comes home bringing Rachel, Belle and Henry and while we are yet at table, Van Bamford and Ben Percy comes and the quantity of hard cider they can stow away inside their jackets is wonderful. Belle and Ben sing and play a few old favorites. Van goes out to see the pigs, gives V money to buy 30 lbs sugar in Kingston, shoulders his tea and then the two old swill tubs go [illegible] over the river to their home towards [illegible] Voltie goes with R lantern in hand to get her [illegible] pancake griddle, &c &c got back in �40 9 Monday 16 February 1903 A cold day but not stormy. Charley Dixon came over with Frank Woodman and goes to the party at Geo Niles with Frank who is going to play the violin there this eve. Voltie and Maud go down in cutter Voltie drew wood from the island. Sr helping Belle getting home sick. Tuesday 17 February 1903 A cold day but Voltie & Sr gone to Lindy’s for wood, went after dinner took Rachel and her valise over to Dodges and left her there. Charley Dixon at noon went with Frank Woodman out to Reids at Glenvale. Towards night Charley Halliday drove in for his family and they hustled off in a hurry and Maud and I are left alone for a while and peace and quietness reigns triumphant. while we are eating our supper in walks Bob G we are glad to see him He visits till 10 pm, a very cold night and goes to PO, Whig, Herald, American Woman, Hearth and Home, letter from Eveline, Charles and another from Bob Matherson �41 10 Wednesday 18 February 1903 Whew! what a snow blizzard from S.W. cant see an inch for wind and snow which lasts nearly all day. Dont water cattle till towards eve, nor horses. Lennie here for cider for Charley Woodman. Voltie working in shop nearly all day on bobs. Bob G went visiting at Niles and from there rode with Wall to the foot to see Rube & Mary’s Bably. Evening Voltie & B go to Niles to play cards and return 1/2 past 10 pm which finds us all abed. Thursday 19 February 1903 A clear bright cold morning. Wind West. Charlie D came early from S Woodmans where he had staid over night after driving back from Elginburg last night starting at 4 pm from Reids. Frank came towards noon and loaded Rachels traps in, took over the river pancake griddle, and bed. V & B lunch at 11 am and go to Lindys isle for baswood to carry to garden isle to have sawed for lumber. They return at 3 pm; gave them early tea; Abberson Moore here. I churn and make 10 lbs butter, send one to Grace which leaves 9 for market. Volties got toothache. Evening I write 2 letters 1 to Grace, 1 to Belle �42 11 Friday 20th February 1903 Arose early and prepared every thing for market put the eggs in oats, sent Grace a basket and brougt [sic: brought] out the basket of butter while Bob and Voltie loads the logs for the saw mill and after a hand shake and good bye from Robert, they drive off up the ice for Garden Island and Kingston. Then Maud and I pitch in to work. Maud washes all the white clothes I wash all the dishes and seperator and cook the meals. A cow buyer here from town. Mr Wheatley called in pm making a short and entertaining visit Maud goes to Mrs Niles to return her skirt pattern. Shell accompanied her home bringing a pail for milk Then Shell and Maud went to PO for mail, Herald, Whig, Kingston News, Woman’s farm journal and Hearth and Home. Voltie came late,—about nine pm, forgot to mention a letter from "Hugh", for Voltie. Massey Harris Co rather saucy too. Maud goes a little way with Shell when she goes at 1/2 past 8 pm. Saturday 21 February 1903 A blustering, snowy, windy morning morning. Voltie wont go to the island for wood this day, but works in shop, paints sleigh, &c. Wallace Niles here in evening stays till 9 pm borrows Volties cutter to go to Clayton. �43 12 Sunday 22 February 1903 A pleasant day after the storm. Voltie hitches up bay colt with Wall horse and they drive to Riverview for tobaco. Voltie buying a $1,00 for Charley Halliday and tobaco for himself and 5 postage stamps for me, then Wall with V’s cutter and harness goes to Clayton. V & W have agreed to go to the old folks ball at the villiage tomorrow evening. V going to go up with W. Inez here to bring Mauds Book home and borrow a yeast cake. We spend the evening in reading. Monday 23rd February 1903 Arose early for Voltie is going to Kingston & Garden Island, takes a grist of wheat to Kingston for flour, and goes for his lumber and a load of saw dust. The day is rather stormy and blustery from S.E. and he drives away in to the teeth of the storm. C Woodman, in cutter follows close behind Voltie. I send Belles duds up in a bundle. Voltie came early said Reginald is sick, think it may be typhoid, hope not. Angry because Wallace refuses to go to the ball, 1/1 going anyway now and so goes up with Len Patterson and Chas Woodman. Marjorie goes back with Voltie going to finnish [sic: finish] her trade. Len came just before starting for the ball with jug for cider for "Grandpa". �44 13 Tuesday 24 Feb 1903 A very fine day. Voltie came at breakfast time a good deal the worse for wear; looks as if he had been drawn through a knot hole and hung up to dry. Of course he has been out with Charles Woodman didn’t eat any breakfast; went to bed, wants to be called a 1/2 past nine; going to draw two loads of wood from Lindys; called him at 10 am; would [not] get up; called him at dinner time. he arose but didnt want to but took a drink of cider, braced up, ate dinner, and went to lindys with dad and brought a great load of wood; Maud went for Mail. A letter from Grace written yesterday saying Reginald is very sick going to take him to his grandfather Gaskins. Dont know whether or not it is typhoid, hope not. Whig, News Comfort Vickery fire side. Sr fixing to go to the horse races tomorrow in Kingston. Maud cleaned floors & ironed the clothes . I darned mittens, cooked, washed dishes as usual. Sam went to Kingston early this morning. I guess the cider didn’t satisfy samuel. �45 14 Wednesday 25 Feb 1903 Wednesday arose at 6 a.m. A fine day but colder than yesterday. Sr gone to the city. Voltie chased him to the river with bells, cant drive in to the city without bells in winter time against the law. Hope Sr will come home straight, dont want any more cursedness around here. This is his first trip since he tumbled over board and was fished out by the purser and got his name in the paper. What an honor! Voltie painting sleighs. Maud preparing to wash. Wells Sr came home at 9 evening. Didn’t go to Grace’s. Saw Bob and told him Reginald has malarial fever and is not very sick. All the same he ought to gone and seen Poor dear Grace and her babies. Oh the horse trot was of greater importance with him. He bought and brought home some dishes which was exceedingly kind of him, and to me, very acceptable. He was sober and all right. Wind South and blowing all night. Mauds clothes flapping on the clothes line all night. �46 15 Thursday 26th February 1903 A sunshiny hazy day, wind South fresh & breezy. Maud & I washed up all the new dishes and cleaned the pantry shelves and set up our dishes clean, bright and shining. Voltie & dad used the new ice house frame, then cleaned grist of hog feed and went to Geo Rattrays get ground. Barometer 4 above zero in the shade. Lennie Patterson here in evening for cider 8 gallon. Lennie and Charlie went to the horse trots in Kingston to day. Friday 27 February 1903 A beautiful sun bright warm day. Voltie went to Rattrays for grist mill broke couldnt grist. A Russian few here buying old iron, old rubber &c; ate dinner here and had a feed for his horse. After he was gone up the ice Voltie and Sr went to the island for wood and stone boat runners after their return. Wallace drove in here to borrow our straight sleigh to draw out ice tomorrow. I made 7 prints for market, dressed 4 roosters, sent two letters, one to Gladys and one to Grace. Maud went to Niles for borrow butter basket; mine all smashed up no handle. In the evening Voltie brings up from cellar and sorts 8 barrels of apples for market, going to carry Grace some. �47 16 27th Nov 1902 F Snow on the ground this morning. We arise at 3 am that Grace may have time to dress herself and little ones to go home on the Pierpont and such a hustling I never saw! raining just a little and Sr drove the team to the door just as soon as he possibly could after hitching up "All ready to start now come hury out", and only Reginald dressed. Dear Grace how we all had to hustle to to get the children ready. Saturdya 28 February 1903 Arose at 4. Raining, thawing and blowing. Voltie cant go to market to day. We have the work all done by 8:30 am. Maud cleaning floor mattras. Voltie painting sleigh. He looks out sees weather it clearing up puts away his paint brush, whips out to barn, hitches up before sleigh drives to the door, loads on barrels of apples and peck measure, puts the butter aboard the sleigh and chickens and hustles off to market. Away up the see he goes as fast as the horses can pick up their feet. Dinner on table at 11 am. begins to rain again at 2 pm a regular downpour, lightning and heavy thunder tub and pails filled in 3 minutes. Dont expect Voltie home to night. �48 17 Sunday 1 March 1903 Wind blowing all night but freezing hard. Ground nearly bare, ice froze hard enough to bear heavy loads. cutters flying up and down the ice. work done up early. wish V would come. Van & Sid drive in here at 10 have horse put in stable over coats off. cider brought up from cellar, tongues loosened up and talking begins about moving horse trots and Maud & Irene get dinner. we set the table with our new dishes, for we have company fried pork, mashed potatoes, gravy, brown bread, white bread, onions, pickles, cookies, honey, butter, pepper, salt, tea, cream & sugar thats all. after dinner more cider more talk: Voltie came just in time for dinner too. Sid and Van went up to see aunt Ruth and Lib Patterson Van brought me some seed beans. I sent Lib a peck of seed potatoes—russets, and lent her book the "Heart of the New Thought" and two ’new Thought" magazines. At last away they go carrying 60 lbs sugar with them smuggling 30 lbs of the sugar was mine that Voltie brought home to day which we let Sid have for dollar. Voltie bought 1,00 lbs and left 70 in Kingston so I have now only granulated sugar. We all sit and read till 9:30 Forgot to say Maud tried skating but too rough Maud goes to Church a 3 pm. �49 18 Monday 2nd March 1903 some snow fell last night, a warm morning cloudy and thawing. Voltie making ice tongs in black smith shop. Wells as usual choring around. We cook, wash dishes, separator, make one apple pie for dinner. After dinner Voltie goes to Rattrays for the provender. I color Mauds white shaker flannel was pink and also color her facinator, red - Voltie gets beef from the barrel and it is now boiling with a very appetizing odor. I sew a ball of carpet rags. The snow comes tumbling down again this pm 4 Oclock. Sr and Voltie are on the ice marking a place to saw out ice for summer. Charley Woodman has broken his new cutter and wants Voltie to repair it. Every one reading again this evening. Tuesday 3rd March 1903 A snowy morning, wind N.E. Weather soon clears and becomes a mild warm bright day. Voltie sawing ice all am. Sr growling because Voltie is not prepared. Srdid draw and put saw dust in the bottom of ice floor when V asked him to do so. Voltie has most every thing to do, with very little help. P.M. V and dad drawing out ice for the ice house. Charley Woodman driving off up the ice with two horses before the cutter. Niles getting out ice. 7 men helping them. �50 19 Wednesday Thursday 5 March 1903 A soft cloudy rainy, snowy day. Maud cleaned up the rooms made cookies and two kinds of cake. I pieced on quilt started a rug. James Gloyd came over to make visit and get his cloth for pants which V had bought for him in Kingston. Voltie drove to hickory for his bedding and other things which he had left there. Voltie came about two Oclock then drove to Geo Rattrays to get provender ground for pigs. This is Geo last time grinding for this year. Mrs Woodman very [illegible]. Charley gone to Depauville for Frank they came about dark. Frank came to make us a visit and staid till 11 pm. Frank likes cider. �51 20 Monday 1st of December 1902 Wells Sr and Voltie butchering beef (our beef) down to Frank’s barn. Voltie is going to take quarters of the beef down to Hickory leaving one forward quarter at home. Al Joslin helping but came up to dinner with V & Sr. V opened a can of our preserves. I told him he could but I did not want to. They were the Grey black cap and most delicious. Mr J Niles came this morn just after the men had gone down to Franks to bringing the very sad news of the Macys [illegible] lost and all her crew numbering 14 men all Capt Myron Gotham and his two sons. The Mabel Wilson (The Macy’s consort) made port saved her crew but is terribly wrecked. Friday 6 March 1903 A beautiful day soft and warm. Geo Darling drove here. Sr paid him for the tea but kept the last can and ony 1/2 lb used from it. Voltie fixed Chas Woodmans cutters then after dinner they worked on the ice house. I churned, wrote two letters, one to Grace and one to Fireside Visitor. Maud rubbing up her rings to see if they are gold or brass. Maud went to post office. Mail—Whig, News, Herald, Womans magaine, American woman, and Brown Book, letter from Grace & a few advertising envelopes from Crawfords grocery. Len Patterson here till 10 with his violin Len and Voltie playing violin �52 21 Tuesday 2 Dec 1902 A beautiful day warm & bright. The finest day I ever saw in December; so warm. I churned out on the veranda scarcely a ripple on the river which comes ever so gently from N.E. Wells Sr emptied the pork barrel of apples and after bringing water from river, heating and scalding the barrel, cut up and salted the beef. Maud done Chamber work and cleaned floors. Sr is now cleaning up a grist barley for pigs feed which will be carried to mill Thursday on the Pierpont. Our old white cat we put down cellar last night on account of rats and she yawled all night; if she didn’t catch my rats, they surely must have been frightened. Poor old smut cat, something has destroyed her kittens; probably rats. Mailed 4 letters to day one to [R Spoor, one to Grace, one to Chicago for Ella Wheeler Wilcox portrait and one to St Louis for Ladies Art instruction. No little Reginald here to day to eat butter out the churn. Poor little dear. Sturday 7th of March 1903 Arose at 4 am. Voltie going to Kingston carrying apples, butter &c to market drives the north shore. Bill Windmill & Sid Percey here for their processing which are yet in Kingston. Voltie will get them to day. Mrs Ruth Woodman died early this morning. �53 22 Continued from bottom of last page Wind beginning to blow from South, dark clouds rolling up from West tis 5 pm and Voltie come. Promised to be here before dark. Now comes a heavy roll of thunder and Price sneaks under the table. rain pouring in torrents and Voltie not here. I been looking for him two hours didn’t take any rain coat with him. Just after supper Sr says Voltie is coming and he was walking beside the sleigh coming up from consession and had walked all the way across the island for the ground is bare. A good two miles, he left part of his load on the other shore—shingles for the ice house— the river is open around oak point, they (Voltie & Henry Halliday) drove within 50 yds of it—another heavy thunder—In looking over his purchases he discovers that he has left in Kingston (Ferguson Grocery) 30 lbs granulated sugar, 1 peck onions, and cabbage. �54 23 Thursday 4th Dec 1903 Maud went to Kingston and carelessly got left in Town; after putting the baskets and groceries aboard the Pierpoint. A very cold day but Irene works around and keeps every thing snugly and cozy. Sunday 8 March 1903 Wind blowing a gale all night from south, the morning reveals a windy foggy rainy most miserable day for weather but I enjoy it all the same, it speaks of a quiet lazy day at home when we can read, write and have a good time jeneraly [sic: generally]. Maud dressed and goes to church at 1/2 past 10 service. No one came. old Bill and Sid cant get here to day so the cider barrels will take a rest. Monday 9 March 1903 A find day Wind North froze last night. The funeral at 10 am Mrs Woodman (Aunt Ruth) remains laid in the Vault. Wells, Voltie and Maud went to funeral. I staid home and prepared dinner all ready piping hot when they came. After dinner Voltie goes to Alice Michea [illegible] bee. 10 helpers they put up 90 cakes of ice. Voltie home early. Wallace came to bring home a pitch fork visited a whole hour or more. Cloudy towards evening I churn and get supper. Maud made pillow tuck and pulled it and made a sheet. �55 Friday 5th Dec 1902 A very cold day. Maud in town. Expect she will come home with the mail. Sent Sr with a letter to the post for Grace to be sure and keep Maud in town but will be sure and come down with C.W. A coal fire and wood fire fails to keep house warm. I sent veil and shawl by Charley W in case M should come home. After supper and 7 O’clock. Maud walked in accompanied by Lennie Patterson bringing the mail. Rachel comes over for kerosine and to tell me Maud was left on the dock crying. Tuesday 10 March 1903 A warm cloudy still day. Sr and Voltie working on the ice house. Maud washing. Lib Patterson starts for home to day. Went up with Charley when he goes for the mail. I sent a letter to Grace, one to Ferguson the Grocer and one to Comfort paper. I’m most asleep will go now and wash dishes Voltie and Sr shingle one side of the ice house. Len Patterson here for cider 1 gal. Maud went for mail. Good litterature, News, Whig, receipt for taxes on the island. �56 25 Saturday 6th December 1902 Rather cold but clear. I churned in ten minutes; made cranberry sauce. Maud cleaned floors. Jr building fence around straw stack, and doing chores chopping wood and then drove for Voltie. While Sr was hitching up R came to stay all night bringing her anger with her. Mabel Woodman here for subscriber for Good Litterature. We subscribed Maud. Sent Maud to Niles with their basket and their electric oil, and sent her some sage. Wednesday 11 March 1903 A soft warm day, cloudy in morning but clears up about 9 am. Voltie set a hen on 15 eggs. I went to barn to see the pigs cleaned and scoured cask for sugar .60 lbs Sr and V shingling ice house, south side. and practicing hymns, cleaned out barrels and boxes. Maud cleaned and scoured 1 chair and 1 water bench and painted them chair red, Voltie and Sr shingling and boarding ice house; spend the evening reading &c �57 Sunday 7 December 1902 Wind South and blowing hard. Awoke this morning to find the snow falling and the ground white. Maud 18 yers old to day. Rachel staid til after breakfast and walked home. There nine little pigs at the barn this morning. Coal fire went out this morning. Sr on it. Voltie built it again. The first real snow storm of the season not to cold. Maud went to church in fore noon. Evening Sr drove to the foot with Voltie. Says he come home Tuesday evening for he will butcher 6 pigs Wednesday for Kingston market. Thursday 12 March 1903 Last night the most beautiful moonlight night I ever saw, like paridice [sic: paradise] This morning quiet no wind but cloudy and warm, white frost covers the ground frost dew drops hanging from the bare branches of the trees all fore noon. Wells and Voltie finish shingling ice house and are now enclosing it with boards. Voltie after breakfast went to Rattrays for the grist of provender and to the other shore for the remainder of his shingles he left one bunch at the cheese factory. Maud cleaned all the floors and this pm every thing is slick as a new pin I washed dishes & separator emptied flour can continue on next page �58 27 Monday 7th December 1902 A cold day. Maud washed and hung the clothes on the line where they froze almost instantly continued from page 24 and straighned [sic: straightened] up the pantry. I fell and hurt myself. Maud thought I was killed and screamed. I dont know how I came to fall or what I fell over. Anyway I didn’t break any bones only bruised my self. I hopped up and worked all day Maud in evening went up to call on Shell. Mrs Niles and Wallace had just returned from visiting Mary Woodman Lennie here this evening didnt bring a jug but Voltie treated him to cider. 13th March 1903 Friday A soft cloudy morning. After Maud and I had done the work all up, I wrote to the "American Woman to inquire about Bracebridge Hall and why it is not forth coming. Voltie put away in the new ice house, once head, his cutter, bob sleigh, &c finished repairing Chas Woodmans cutter. The ground as bare as May. The ice still hanging in the river. Cloudy all day. I dug horse radish for tea. Our black cow last night had a calf. The calf so big it died before it was born. Charley & Len helped Voltie over �59 Tuesday 8th December 1902 The weather is very miserably cold thermometer 20 below zero which is a vast difference from last Tuesday only week ago. Maud makes mince pies which are fine We expect Voltie home to night hope he will come but am afraid tis so cold he cant get here. Shell came down and had tea with us we had a most enjoyable visit. Maud, Shell and but the foolish girl wore on her feet only slippers and over shoes. While I was regretting Volties absence and thinking he would not come, our dear boy walked in. Wells didn’t drive for him for it was so cold he did not think he would venture to come up from [illegible] Shell & Maud went to the Post office. Geo Niles came home to day from sailing. about the cow. Voltie took his gallon oil can and went & borrowed a gallon of kerosine of Charley and they came home with him and made us a short visit, smoked and had cider. Charley told us all about his mother dying: no one there now only Sylvia to do the work. The mail was Kingston News, Whig, Herald, a letter from Grace, and a postal from "New �60 29 Wednesday 9 December 1902 A very cold morning frost so heavy cant see through windows. V spent nearly all fore noon looking for some one to help butcher the pigs 6 of them but could get no one for the butchers were all engaged elsewhere. Frank done the butchering. Voltie, Frank & Sr dressed 4 for Voltie and then drove down to Franks for F’s pig which they butchered and dressed after dark by lantern light. R came over to help about lard [illegible]. A terrible cold day for bringing water from the river to heat on the kitchen stove in the big tin tank and hustled it in the barrel and threw it on the hand sled to the blacksmith shop. Saturday 14th March 1903 A soft warm cloudy morning. Keyhole and Macdonell (John) drove here for 2 bags of coal Voltie had borrowed sometime in winter. I have not got much coal, but I’m glad it is paid. He borrowed if from Geo Rattray. Maud varnishing chair tis Saturday and lots of work to do. I have it to churn. I can hear the dogs barking across the river. Maud fried cakes. Gandad threshed and cleaned half bushel of beans. Voltie skined the calf I caught a big rat in the trap last night. 50 degrees above zero warm as May day. Thermometer at 50 warm. Wallace here in evening talking sailor small talk. I read them a couple of yarns. V brought up a pitcher of cider. I made 4 pumkin pies. �61 30 Thursday 10 December 1902 Arose at 10 minutes to 4 am. Voltie going to Kingston with pork (4 pigs). Frank came up ate breakfast with Voltie. Sr drove to dock with boys and pork. Frank having one pig who he butchered here yesterday. A cold day and frost hard. Wells Sr started early for the dock in eve We had supper and every thing all ready for the return long before they came. I set by the coal fire and went fast asleep while waiting. At last they came at 1/2 past 8 pm. Voltie ate dinner with Grace. Mrs Patterson came down on the Pierpont this eve. Len here this eve for tobaco. Sunday 15 March 1903 Only a few hours and it will be the middle of March. March is marching steadily along towards spring. Cloudy all day wind North but not very cold—chilly—A quiet peaceful Sabath day. Maud goes to church but first went up to Mrs Niles and from there Shell, Inez and Miss Spoor went with her to church. Inez had nose bleed in church and went home. Maud sang in choir. Evening Len came and Voltie, Maud and Leonard sang and played tunes. �62 31 Friday 11 December 1902 A very cold day. Vapor rising from lake and river mountain high and in every fantastic form. Sr & V in fore noon moved the chicken coop for a bee house and after dinner put all the bees in the bee house, eleven swarms went down in the cedars and chopped and drew wood. Maud made mince pies and tried a new recipe for cookies which proved a failure. Monday 16 March 1903 Arose at six Oclock am. A bright clear morn. North wind, light, ground frozen and bare not very cold, robins singing in the orchard channel open all the way. Maud washed and hung clothes on line by 11 am. uncle Sam got his washing out before Maud. 3 pm becomes cloudy. M brings in the clothes all dry. It begins to rain Maud very gay all pm laughing, singing, dancing. Told her her tune would change before bed time and sure enough I had to doctor her for head ache, sore throat, &c �63 32 Saturday 13th December 1902 A cold blustering snow storm from the North, increasing in velocity as the day advances. But no matter what the day is there is always so much to be done both in door and and out. I awoke this morning to find I had left the pan of bread sponge behind the kitchen stove to freeze up but I brought it in to the dining room, thawed it out and made very good bread of it. I doctored Maud’s cookies with more flour and another egg. And they are tolerable. After dinner Frank came up and helped Voltie butcher two pigs which V is going to sell to Marshall & Guernsey on Hickory. I churned and picked the lard. Tis a cold stormy day. Frank says Dave has gone up to cut wood for R. River steaming; vapor rising up mile high, our apples and potatoes freeze in the cellar last night. Tuesday 17 March 1903 Rained hard all night not a drop caught in tub because it was not set and I want to wash bed quilt. Grandad sending two letters one to Capt Denis and one to his young woman, "Miss" Adams in Montana Great falls. I told continued on 34 �64 33 Sunday 14th December 1092 [sic: 1902] Clear, cold morning wind North; frost so thick and heavy on the windows, we scratch the frost away to see out. Voltie built the fires this morning long before day light. V and Maud get the breakfast. Voltie fried beef which was tougher than Bull tripe. I gave my piece to Prince. The cows went without milking last night Voltie rather discouraged about the chichen he has grown for selling. He says they have not been half fed or taken care of. They are poorer than Jobs turkey with frozen feet, and yesterday he wrung off the heads of 5 and threw them away ("Plymouth Rocks") Maud went to church & after dinner and the dishes were washed, went up to see shell Niles accompanied by Leanardo whom she met watering their horses at consession. Voltie, after weighing his pork, loaded it in the sleigh, and his dad went with him to the foot thinking V could go in the Hickory and I am left alone for a few hours to sit by the coal stove and go fast asleep while reading when suddenly I am awakened by Volties step and voice and he comes in to tell me there is no crossing in skiff to Hickory. He left his pork in Wm Gillespie house and the Marshalls & Guernseys will not fry any of our pork for a few days at least. After a while saw R washing; said her old cow had a swelled "bag" and V goes back with her and carries spirits of turpentine. R returns with Voltie and stays to supper and all night. I retire early and am disturbed several times through the night by several causes. �65 34 Monday 15th December 1902 A cold day but a little more moderate. V banked the front of the house, carried a grist of hog feed to be ground at Geo Rattrays then drew a load straw over and banked R cellar. I rendered the second batch of lard, put away the last of the dried pumpkins & took down the poles, washed 4 pairs of socks. It is reported that the North channel is frozen across to Howe Island if that is true there will be no going by Pierpont from our dock Thursday and Santy Claus cant get here. continued from page 32 him very plainly what I thought of the whole affair. Voltie making jumper. I sent two letters one to Grace and one to "The Womans Mutual benefit Shell here to borrow our scales to weigh she didnot know how heavy they were and of course couldn’t carry them. Afternoon thick and foggy, cloudy warm, no wind. There is so much up work to do dont get much time to sew or crochet or knit only get meals, and wash dishes, make beets & sweep and dust. Old black cow bawling for her calf that was dead when it was born nearly a week ago poor old thing. St Patrick cant march to day . Poor old Saint Patrick Continued on nex page �66 57 Saturday 3rd January 1903 The dirtiest day of the winter; rain, wind, snow all gone, Wind South and blowing, dreary and dismal. I heard my dear brother John is burried [sic: buried] to day it sad even to record in this diary. I am much better but not well. Maud washed couldn’t get an opertunity before this week. Wells and Voltie working outside in shop and stable all day. Irene helped me get the dinner, had soup. Wallace Niles came for oil. Len P here in evening, and all gathered around the table playing a game called old maid. Voltie reading "Ivanhoe". Wellie in the kitchen reading "Artic explorers" while I sit by the coal fire reading the "Herald" Sunday 29th March 1903 Froze last night. "They say" it is good sap weather. The sun shines clear but tis chilly for the Wind is North. Maud wipes off floors and sweeps veranda, after we have the breakfast dishes & seperator washed I walked to the river this morning for the first time since last fall. Voltie went with wheel barrow to [illegible] to carry home their bag of coal and get our kerosine. Maud went to church. Well came to [illegible] Volties boat no one here all day except Wall. I wrote to Wellie and Belle tried to read but went to sleep. �67 52 Sunday 4th January 1903 A very good day, froze a little last night. I dont feel much better this day. Think I sit around to much. Voltie, Wallace went to the bay for oil and then Voltie went to the foot and brought home his skiff. Rachel came over a while. Got rid of every thing now but the dog. Monday 30th Macrh [sic: March] 1903 Wind South and chilly. Sun light Maud sick. I gave her ginger tea and put hops across her. She all right by noon. Wells and Voltie move the old ice house up by the hen house for a chicken coop. After noon Voltie plows for potatoes. Voltie churned. Irene get breakfast, washes separator & all the dishes, take care of the butter and gets dinner. Evening "Wall, Voltie & Jack go spearing, spear only one, a blind pike. Voltie gave it to the cats. V came home after ten pm found all a bed �68 [Sticker: Date 1904] Mnoday January 1904 This morning Voltie went to Kingston. Old [corner ripped] too. V carrying up a grist of hog feed bag of potatoes for Grace, drove up rain so wait till 11 Oclock pm and I only gone to bed when in they came, old K about half froze up and I had to wait till dark for the grist mill had broken down and coming home they lost the track and ran into a snow bank and broke bobs; borrowed Cavelrys and came home after eating supper at Obriens Tuesday When we arose this morning found old K sitting by the coal stove hardly thawed out yet. V warmed him up and thawed him out with hot cider & ginger and I soon had a hot breakfast for him. Voltie drove up for his bobs taking Cavelrys home came back at 10 am and went directly to the island to mark out a road to draw wood. I gave K a book to read and he dozed and read all day. [added in pencil] (Irene Halliday) (Uncle V & I go visiting to Dixons & Uncle Wallies) �69 [left corner torn, missing text indicated with *] * but Sr and V & today * with team go to the island to draw wood * the heads off 7 roosters which I hand up * market and have dinner on the table all rights when they come from with the wood after V chops of 3 more heads and the snow begins to fall right merrily but P & V goes back to another load and I clean the three chicks which makes 10 altogether. As soon as Kilborn gets up from the breakfast table he puts on overshoes and over coat bids us good bye and away he goes across the ice to U.S.A. 14 Thursday 14 January 1904 V intending to go to Kingston but storms and snow so heavy he stays home and breaks out the road again to little island and brings over a big maple log and a few other sticks for wood going to get the maple sawed into lumber. �70 15th January 1904 Friday A very bright day not a cloud to be seen but snow now very deep and somewhat drifted and very deep in the river. after breakfast Voltie and Sr drive to Lindys to break out the road again; drew a little wood and snow so deep could not draw much came at one pm. Maud washed a few things by melting snow they had to shovel a path around through the orchard, bring water from the river. All drifted high by the old path. I made mince pies, cooked corn and apples, cooked potatoes and meat for dinner. Tis growing dark now and V & Sr are doing chores and I must look after the supper. A letter from Mrs Brooks and one from Grace and one from Gladys. Whig, Herald, Women American �71 [top left corner torn, missing text indicated with *] * 1904 A fine day for Weather, but no end to snow. We dont expect V till evening then the roads will be better for traveling. Afternoon service in our church but no one goes from here; one more egg to day. Had beef and mince pie for dinner & I ate to much I think. V came at 4 pm staid all night at CH’s found the road terrible Monday 18 January 1904 VVoltie broke out a road again from the island but couldnt draw any wood, road terrible. �72 Tuesday 19 January 1904 A very cold day. Maude went to 34 deg below zero. I sent a letetr to Gladys and subscribed again for the Northwestern Orriculturist This is a very miserable pen but tis all I’ve got V and Tobe drew one load of wood from the island. Wednesday 20 Maud & I put a quilt on the frames Weather not very cold but cloudy and has every apperance of a storm. Charley Woodman gone over to Franks to a dance, drove double with 3 in cutter. But no girls V fixing his sleigh to go to K tomorrow brought it in and painted it. �73 [left corner torn, missing text will be indicated with *] * January 1904 A cloudy morning 18 above zero wind North. Voltie gone to Kingston carrys a barrel of apples 4 bushels to some man to whom he has sold them a pair of dressed chickens for Grace. Maud gone with him as far as Belles and V coming back to Belles and take all the girls to the Barlees Ball. Maud, Marjorie, Beatrice & Irene. The afternoon is cold & stormy. I think by the appearance of the weather they will be sorry before they return that they went. The night sets in cold dark and dismal. Wells reading the Virginian. I read a sample copy of the hearth stone. I think I’ll subscribe for the Hearthstone A serial story in it by Ella Wheelar Wilcox. Friday 23rd Jan 1904 A bad night and a miserable day for weather; rain hail snow and wind 3 pm and V & M not come yet. Traveling on the ice must be dreadful. They came at 4 pm. Beatrice came with them. I’m glad to see Beatrice and I’m awfuly tired. �74 Saturday 24 January 23 1904 A cloudy miserable day snow and slush deep on the river, not very cold day wind S.W., snow in fore noon stormy. V working in shop nearly all day. Maud, Beatrice and I finished the quilt and partly bound it. No visitors this weather. Voltie went early this morn for the mail. A letter from Grace, a letter from Gladys, the Whig, Herald, Fireside Vistor, Rennies seed catalogue, Park floral magazine. I fry cakes. Maud mops floors Sunday 24 January A cloudy stormy day, roads almost impassible. No service in church to day a long quiet day. Bob Reid came for a little visit, got lonesome up to Sams said Charley had gone to bed. This is a terrible winter up to date. Snowing and blowing at bedtime. Wells reading the Virginian till bedtime. Monday 25 January 1904 A clear bright winter day, no wind. After breakfast Voltie & Sr & Peter Toban went to the island for wood. I made pie for dinner, (mince pie with strawberry and citron in it (a grand affair) stewed fresh beef, boiled potatoes, bakes beans and cream biscuits. �75 [left corner torn, missing text indicated with *] * apple sauce, catsup and chill sauce. * Briceland drove in here buying catsup put his horse in stable and, as usual, staid to dinner. The men were a long time coming from the Island on account of the heavy traveling on ice. They managed to tip the load over at the consession and left it there, driving to the house without any wood. Maud set the pie out to cool on the ground as usual, Tobis dog ate it up. Well after they had stuffed themselves (minus the pie) they adjourned to the barn to look over the stock. Didnot buy any thing. Toban here this evening for a little money for tomorrow, he going up for groceries asks Maud if she has another pie for his dog. V sent a grist up by him for the stock, Rod and Bob Reid here till 11 pm singing, dancing, playing violin and piano. Wells Sr reading the Virginian. Tuesday 26 January 1904 Another stormy day. V & Sr drew a load from the island this am. Bob Reid here to get Charleys horse shod so he can drive him to the villiage for the mail but V gone for wood staid awhile and then I sent my letters by him to post. I sent for Hearthstone and �76 letter to Grace. When V came he went to the p.o mail a Sears & Roebuck. Storm so hard couldn’t saw wood this afternoon. The worst storm of all. I am sorry for mail carriers this day: Johny & Charlie Woodman too. Maude got tooth ache in p.m. Wednesday 27 January 1904 A beautiful day not cold. Sr says this is a weather breeder. Voltie went to the post office this morning. Mail Dispatch, Whig, Womans farm Journal, a letter from Turnock and from the Northwestern Agriculturist, a few lines from Grace relating to selling Gaskins & Agnew potatoes and fresh eggs. Drew two loads of wood from Island which makes 10 loads mostly soft wood. Oh yes and Maud received a letter from Amanda and she wants to marry. Poor Amanda some "feller" will come along and pick her up some day. Mrs Sher Mcays boy drove in here to invite Voltie to a choping wood bee for his mother. We put a quilt on the frames the log cabin. Thursday 28 January 1904 Cloud morning looks like snow. Voltie and Sr draw a load of wood from Island then after dinner V goes in cutter to Alice Michea’s wood [illegible] Snub Woodman drives in here to get Rachels address �77 [illegible] Capt Jack Donnely the driver for weeks. Voltie comes just afer dark: he staid to supper. Then he drives to Geo Gillespie’s carrying the bulls hide that he is going to send to Gananoque to have tanned for a robe. Snowing all p.m. a tough old winter. Maude and Beatrice rolled the quilt twice once yesterday and once to day. Then Beatrice went to Mrs Niles visiting Bob Reid here this evening till 1/4 past 9. Friday 29 January 1904 A day of snow and sun light rather cold. Voltie and Lobe drew three loads of wood from the island which makes fourteen. They may not draw any more but I hope they will. Maud made pies (mince) and cake, baked sweet apples. Loban here to dinner and supper then staid and helped V draw off a barrel of cider. Bob Reid came for his mittens which he left here last night. Beatrice home from her visit from Niles had a very enjoyable time. Said Shell has lost her watch in Kingston, we rolled twice on the quilt to day. The girls went for the mail, we are getting our last Herald till we subscribe again. Evening mail, Whig �78 Herald, American home, Maud received a [letter] from Miss Laura Spoor who is attending business college in town. Saturday 30 January 1904 A cloudy snowy day. Bob Reid drove in here to borrow a robe, he is going to Kingston with pork for Charley Woodman Sent by him for tobaco. V went early to Geo Glispies and brought home the saw and the bulls hide. Dont tan fur for robes in Gananoque. Charley Woodman gone to Elginburg visiting Reids, went last night after he came home with the mail. Maud and Beatrice hustled around to get ready and they go walking up the ice to Niles where they stay for tea and from there go to phinkers with Jack, Shell, Inez & Miss Davey the school teacher for an evening visit. Voltie goes up to uncle Sams for the robe and tobaco. [Bob Reid|Bob]] comes home with him but only remains till 8 p.m. for Sam is alone, poor old Sam. I get supper. Voltie helped me wash dishes. A lame back is my portion. �79 May 31st January 1904 The last of the day of the month, a cloudy snowy day. The girls arose first this morning but it was 1/2 past 7 am before any of the family got out of bed. Maud & Bee [Beatrice] returned last evening at 11.30 pm Had a most enjoyable time. Graphone [sic: gramaphone] and music. Bob Reid here. Snow balled Beatrice. Snow still continues to fall. Evening every member of family reading till bed time. Voltie the last one up reading. Monday 1st Februry 1904 A stormy morning; wind North. We hope it will not storm all day. I found time to bind the quilts all finished now and tis a beauty. Bob Reid helped Voltie butcher two pigs which of course gave me a job I dont like very well. Weather clears up in pm and sun shines. Maud washes and starches the towels and curtains. Beatrice is a darling Jolly merry little maid. I wash an undershirt for V. �80 Tuesday 2nd February 1904 A cold but clear morning. Voltie gone to Kingston with pork started 1/2 past 6 am drove up the ice; but before noon the sky becomes overcast with a heavy snow storm which continues all day. Wind North and cold. Maude and Beatrice burns sulphur in every room; the house blue with the fumes of sulphur up stairs and down stairs whew! Dont know what they done it for, any way it gave Maud a head ache. I mended V’s overalls and darned socks, baked beans, Maud made cake, and baked apples. Beatrice croched [sic: crocheted] doilies, grandpa done all the chores, brought water, choped wood. V came late, long after dark, brought the buckwheat flour. He subscribed again for the Herald to day. Tis 10 oclock all abed but me and I am now going, good night. Wednesday 3rd February 1904 A cold clear morning. Voltie drove to the villiage carrying the bull to Frank Briceland for 14 dollars. Maude and Bee went this morning for the mail, found the snow very deep. Whig, Dispatch, Agriculturist, a letter from MaudsAunt R, invitation �81 [illegible] to a party. C.M.B.A. $1,50 A Sun for W Jr from Oakley. A letter from — for —, a Sun from Birch and McKelvy for W.B. Jr also one for J.D.B. Voltie came 5.30 pm tea ready for him. V paid the taxes $10,80 also Rachels $5,40. Maud and Bee fixing for Michea’s party. Bee [Beatrice] going with Bob Reid Maud with Voltie. Sr in kitchen reading the Sea Lions, whiile I sit in the dining room by the coal stove with feet stuck in the oven to warm, with a pile of socks to darn. Cloudy & looks like a storm. Thursday 4th February 1904 A severe cold morning. The frost makes the house crack. Our dancers came at 3 O’clock a.m. and crawled into bed. V arose early enough to eat breakfast with dad and I. M & B had second breakfast. Going to butcher to day 3 pigs and I know what my job will be, not a very pleasant one. Bob Reid here and Loban helping, both here to dinner. The big tank on the stove Sr tending fire �82 Saturday February 20, 1904 �83 Monday 22nd February 1904 �84 Wednesday 24th February 1904 A blustering morning but Belle is quite anxious to go home though she does not insist in going; any way Voltie concluded to go, so drives to the door. They load up and start and drive on to the ice when behold Sr has let the calf out and he runs after the team. Voltie of course has to stop and try to drive the colt back and Voltie runs, Sr runs too, after difficulty they succeed in driving him to the barn and but no sooner is Voltie under way again than the colt is away too after them again folowing them to Niles. Voltie again attempts to lure him back when the black mare jumps and kicks the bay colt cutting his leg so back they come and unhitch and stay home and tis as well for the day proves to be a dirty disagreable kind of weather �85 Friday 26th February 1904 A very beautiful day bright warm. A very very few days like this, have we seen this awful winter but we accept with the thankful heart this one. Sleighs and cutters flying behind horses horses this day. Voltie cutting ice all alone this day and so very tired, when night comes went early to bed. five times have I written "this day" within 6 lines. �86 your of reading Robert G came and were glad to see him, he came down with Charley W. Voltie & Irene set the table for him and it was midnight when we retired Sunday 28 February 1904 A rainy dirty day. Every one reading. Voltie reading Granstark all day, a quiet rainy stormy day. Irene reading Lena Rivers but we have our three square meals all the same. �87 Niles helping and here to dinner. Briceland here to. We expected him to dinner. He bought the the bare faced calf $1,50. Evening Voltie, Robert & Irene went to Mr Niles for an evening visit returned at 10,30 pm. A stormy night. I read Lalla Rooch a wild improbable story by Moore. Sr reading Ivanhoe. Tuesday 1st March 1904 The stormiest and most blustering day of all the winter. Wind blowing, snow flying. A trememdous growth of snow banks every where what were big banks before are monstors now. snow six feet on level between house and river, the same by the barn. Voltie working on a new set of bob sleighs. I washed a few things. Bob in evening went to post office expecting �88 Bob went to Niles and ate dinner. I baked custard pie. Irene cleaned floors and every fine. Voltie came home early for supper, tired after doing the chores, milking & seperating milk, he and Bob sorted two barrels of apples for market. I am sending 7 lbs butter to market wish it was twenty. Merrit Daily trying to move on the island, drove down the island with two loads had to turn back on acount of snow through the Breaky consession. The weather now looks like a storm. �89 [illegible] rigs gone up this morning. Merrit [illegible]penter moving a load of goods over here to the Breakey Joy place. 1 pm Raining and blowing a hurrycane from the west; the water on the ice rolling with white caps. A terrible day for Wind and rain and cold increasing every minute. 4 pm one team just drove down on ice water up to the sleigh ranes [sic: reigns]. V & M cant come home this day. Toban here. Sr treated him to cider; poor Prince often looks out the window up the river watching and waiting for Voltie in vain. Irene and I sit up late washing but no return of the absent, Maud been gone now 2 weeks. Well I’ll go bed. This March day has gone out. It has riped [sic: ripped] and tore, stormed and swore since �90 as far as Charleys where they stayed and They came with empty barrels and boxes laden with groceries. V brought a new doubble harness from D Spoor. Grace sent me a piece of cheese. Bob sent me a book "The Clerical City" by Hall Caine. Belle sent me two copies of the Brown Book. Irene Sr made molasses cookies. mail, Whig, Herald, Massey book, letter from Grace, one from Ethel & Flora (Uncle Voltie and Irene Sr gone to visit Dixons Uncle Willies) Saturday 5 March 1904 Another beautiful day thoug the is rather more pensive than yesterday. Voltie and Irene gone over the way to another country. I sent Grannie my pocket book and all the money I possessed which was only one dollar, cloth for new apron; sent apples, ginger cookies and sent Jen a monster onion. Perhaps she will not be pleased—I dont care. Voltie told me �91 something of importance occurs after Voltie and Irene leave for another country only Till evening after we are all quietly engaged in reading we are aggreeably surprised by an evening visit form Shelly Niles, Miss Davey and Wallace Niles. Maud treated them to hickory Poor dear Maud went to bed with tooth ache. I applied hot ginger bag to her face and filled the cavity with cotton batten saturated in eclectric oil. Forget to say Maud went out skating this pm found the ice very rough and bad every way. Sunday 6th March 1904 A soft, mild, dim, quiet resting itelf for business ahead. We looked for Voltie and Lib all forenoon. No one came but Loban Excuse wants to get his hair cut but I think tis cider he wants; after dinner and dishes Van drives in cutter with his beautiful white mare wouldnt unhitch but tied her out at �92 tea and dishes washed we enjjoy a very evening reading. Maud reading Graustark W Sr reading Ivanhoe, while I read the Political romance by Hall Cane the Eternal City (Rome of course) Monday 7th March 1904 A rainy day. March is weeping floods of tears very quietly. The snow has disapeared so rapidly that the dirty earth begins to peep forth from her beautiful white mantle that she has worn all winter but tis now soiled, dirty, besmirched with mud sticks, leaves and every filth, but tis welcome after this long dreary cold—Sr mending harness in kitchen and blowing his nose on the floor every few minutes. I can truly say like Jess in "Window in Thurms" "What man am I tied to". Maud working on sofa pillow. I washed separator, churned, worked butter and washed all the dairy implements, cracked a few nuts �93 [illegible] to water without doubt the traveling on ice and land is very difficult; but Charley Woodman has gone to Marysville for the mail. I would have sent letters but have given away all my money. Gave Sylvia 12 cts, sent mother a dollar, gave June 25 cts. Dear June I’m almost sorry I didnt give her the dollar but Voltie will give something—(money) in Watertown and I can give Irene money later. As the snow disapears it exposes and brings to view a very filthy door yard. To day Maud is washing & Irene Sr is limping around doing the dishes, separator and cooking. "Ole man" Sr is untoping straw stack. The hens are all out scratching among the straw for wheat. Wallace gone to Clayton to get tooth pulled out. Evening Dad went for mail. Whig, Daily Agriculturist, American Woman, Household Guest, a letter from Watson, postal from New Thought, and a letter from Clark Street, Chicago which I have not opened. �94 [illegible—page torn] in the consession and cant get up. Charley and Mr McGreggor here while we were at dinner to help get her up but I think Sr is hoping she cant get up for he didnt go with them but thanked them very politely and camee back to finish his dinner while C.W. & R McGreggor went home . The old mare is up and gone to the barn again. I made Johny cake for dinner. Sr ate 6 pieces Maud & I ate 1 each. Sr got mad at Maud; going strike her. I blowed the stuffing out him. I made him ashamed for onc. Evening he began reading Forna Doone. Thursday 10th March 1904 last night Theremometer cold [illegible—page torn] �95 [illegible—page torn] the property they sit up late but finaly go to bed upstairs. Womans World, Herald, Hearthstones good Litterature, letter from Grace, asking for Bobs Friday 11 March A miserable cold, stinging day After breakfast, Davis goes home, leaving Loyd [illegible] here to watch affairs. Sammy and Toban go to Kingston to see about the seizure. Charley as usual goes for the mail. We send Loyd for the mail. No one visible except little Sylve. Sam gone to bu Charley am. McGregors part playing cards. Oh yes he said Bob Reid who said they had consulted Lawyer. Tobe drove in here at bed time wanting cider [illegible] evening mail Whig, Herald, Womans World, Good Litterature &c. �96 Saturday 12 March 1904 The day much warmer than yesterday but not very warm yet, didn’t thaw. Prince as well as my self is still looking for Voltie. Maud cleans floors. I made molasses cookies; they are not very good. Sammy and Loban gone up again to day. Loyd made three trips to Loban’s. After dinner and dishes washed Maud goes skating but is going to come early home to help me get supper. Sr comes in house about 4 pm and says "They are coming, are about a mile away; and sure enough Voltie and Irene are coming home over the ice and in a very few minutes at the door. Irene comes in with bundles and valise while Voltie brings in the robes and blankets and then drives to Sam’s with Charleys cutter. Irene after telling me something about the pleasure of her visit only a little for she has not have gone to relate much—helps me get supper. But where is our Maud who was coming home to help me so early? dont [illegible] Well while we are at table she walks in, face read and breathing like a steamboat, she been over to Maloneys with Shell and Miss Davey, Miss Spoor over there. V started to go over to Dodges but Wallace wouldn’t go so came home and reads all the �97 2 Sunday 13 March 1904 Arose rather late this morning for tis and a day of rest, but Grandad was up fire breath and out milking before Voltie was down stairs. Voltie and Lloyd slept together last night and they both came down stairs together. Voltie declares he must go to Kingston tomorrow for coal and I want to send the butter to market in prints and as part of it is in rolls and the other part in cream not churned yet and tis Sunday I am considering what to do. When Lloyd goes on his watchful mission I pour the cream into the churn and set Voltie at the business of bringing the butter from the cream and as I am making out the butter prints,—in walks Mr. Lloyd. Voltie had told me that Lloyd was a strict Methodist and I was somewhat "Skerry" of being caught breaking the Sabath so to make sure I ventured to ask him what Church he belonged too he said "Church of England" so I didn’t care. Furthermore he said Loban had asked him if Voltie was home and he had told him "No" that Voltie had gone across the river. Lobans mind was to come and get filled up with cider and Lloyd �98 understood it all right. I told him I was breaking the Sabath. He said it was all right, that it was nothing to him and I thought so too. As tis a fine day Jr hitched up (after dressing up) and drove over river to visit his relation—and gone all day coming home just in time for his supper, he brought home Dickens history of England which I had lent Bill Windmill over a year ago—(I’ll not lend him any more) and another book that Lib has sent me to read all about the pure cursedness of "Papery" "Little of Book" "The Great Red Dragon". Maud skates all pm and again in evening. I took a nap this pm first in a long time. Irene told me all about her visit, what a dear sweet girl is Muriel, and what a lovely woman is her Aunt Eveline and her dear uncle Wellie, and the darling boys, Hubert and Clyde & Lyle. It is nearly midnight when I go to bed. The afternoon nap cured me of sleepiness. 3 Monday 14 March 1904 A very fine day except in afternoon it snowed again. Woodman again went to Kingston. Lloyd went to Loban’s three times. Voltie went to Kingston carrying the butter to market 12 lbs and oak to be sawed into lumber. He is going to make a bedstead and book case he did not return till after dark, had to wait for lumber to be sawed. Sold the butter to OConner �99 4 Monday 14 March 1904 A beautiful morning like spring but snow every where; going on ice fine; cutters & sleighs flying every where over the ice bound river. Samy & Charlie gone up again this morning to see about the seizure of their cows and hay for rent. Arose at 5 Oclock this morning for Voltie is gone to Kingston with oak to be sawed for lumber; he is going to make headstead and a book case. I sent 12 lbs butter to market. Voltie will bring coal. Tis 10 a.m. & I am beginning to think about dinner and what will I get I think I’ll cook some carrots smothered in cream and make a pie of some kind. (I didnot make the pie). Voltie brought 1100 lbs of coal and onions for Ed Bates. �100 5 Tuesday 15th March 1904 The skating spoiled again; ice covered with snow. I sent the letter and order to Dr Turnoch $2,50, wrote and sent a letter to Mr Watson, and 3 New Thought Magazines and another magazine, and a letter to Sydney Flower N.Y. Sent them by L Card who has gone up with the mail as he has finished his mission of watching the property. Tis a fine day and thawing. We all go bed early Whig, Good Stories, Agriculturist, Dispatch, Heralds pictures & map Wednesday 16 Marach 1904 Another beautiful day. Voltie goes across the river accompanied by Irene and Maud who are going to call at uncle Delavan’s while V drives to Ed B’s for the sourkrout that Ed promised him early in the winter, he returned at dinner time without the sourkrout or the girls. They are going to visit with Libbie B and Van brings them home near supper time. Wells Sr an Voltie begin breaking the black colt. he drives off like an old horse. Sr is going to Kingston tomorrow. 9 pm good night. �101 6 Thursday 17 March 1904 Well St Patrick’s day has come again; what silly, foolish celebration. Old St Pat. It is realy disgusting but those Roman Catholics are witless as far as their pretended religion is. Barometer this morning registers zero. A clear fine day. Sr gone to Kingston for the first time this winter. I’m glad he is gone for a few hours, for the stove can have a peacable time as well as the family; no slaming of stove doors to day or looking into the tank to see how low the water is, or low muttering growling. Voltie is taping [sic: tapping] our few maples. I am trying to wash a few things. While I am resting a few minutes the coal stove, the girls exclaim, Visitors! and sure enough Old uncle James Gloyd has come. V goes out & puts his horse in stable while uncle Jim comes in shaking hands with us all around. poor old man how white his hair is and how old and decripted he looks. He said he had not seen or heard from any of us in so long time he thought he would drive over for a little while. Well as he is an inssesant �102 7 talker he gave us a vivid and minute description of Franks and Esthers lives and conduct, and several other of his relatives and acquaintances. He has ordered his own monument which is already engraved at the marble works in Clayton. Says without doubt this is the last time he will ever visit us or cross the river. V brought in the sap a few quarts which he boiled, making a small bowl of syrup by adding a cup full of brown suar. Sr came while we were at supper. I lingered at table to keep him company and hear the news, which was not much. Awful sick on the road going up, saw Bob, [illegible] couldnt pull his tooth, Smith charged him ,75 cts fixing his specticals [sic:spectacles] Loban is going to sue [illegible] for taking care of the cattle and property while [illegible] should have done it instead of Loban &c [illegible] carpet rags and darned Sr mitten and Volties �103 �104 9 Friday 18 March 1904 No sign of spring. A bad stormy day, snow falling thick and fast. Winter far and wide. Beatrice is 17 years old to day. This morning Voltie sent to Sears and Robuck for the books on Carpentry and Painting 3 of them, beside a romance. We had our maple syrup for breakfast this morn. Voltie has taken our old rocker to the shop to repair it. Well I feel dull lazy and sleepy. I wish I had 2 dollars in silver change that I might send away for flower and vegetable seeds and bulbs, and for subscribtion purposes, and a few new books but I have not money enough to pay postage for a letter, but better times are coming. I will now go wash separator. I sewed a ball of carpet rags and pieced a new quilt block. V and Charley again breaking our colt to drive double. Ben Percey came over visiting and stayed to tea. After dishes washed Maud & Irene dressed, and went to Mrs Niles, for an evening visit Ben went with them. Evening mail. Whig, Herald, Womans magazine, a letter from Gladys [illegible] �105 �106 11 Saturday 19 March 1904 The snow and weather looks as much like winter as ever; more like January than nearly spring. The fog and snow this morning gave a ghostly appearance to all nature. Maud and Irene hustling around to get the Saturdays work done. I must make pies and cookies for Sunday. We may have visitors. Charley and Belle may come, wish they would. Every body but my children visits us. The ones I so long to see dont come, Gladys the dear little one write to me so I have one steady correspondent among my grand children and now and then an occasional one among the others. Fourteen Grandchildren! I have belonging to me! Well Well! I must be growing very old, seventy! what an age! Muriel sent me this diary, my pretty grandaughter. Well I think grandmothers like the kind notices taken of them. Maude & Irene expecting evening visitors from the Niles family, teacher and all the young trash, but it beging [sic:beginning] to snow and rain and they do not come. Maud & Irene sing and dance in parlor. �107 12 �108 13 Sunday 20 March 1904 Froze last night snow lying in heaps and drifts every where. Last year the Pierpont made her first trip to our dock the 18 of March but now the ice in river is two feet thick every where and covered with snow and deep snow on land everywhere. The weather to day is windy, dim sunlight altogether disagreeable day to be out in. Morning’s work done floors cleanly swept everything comfortable warm & cozy when as a pleasant surprise Brother Will came. He had come with Frank Woodman who has come over to visit his father. After dinner Will & [Frank?] & Maud go up to call on the Niles family and are gone only a short time when Ed Bates drives in here bringing a big pail of sourkrout which to us is a rare treat indeed. We invite him to stay. He excuses himself and only stays for cider. After a little small talk he drives away and [illegible] Irene and I are setting the supper table, Will and [Frank?] came home but had dined with the Niles family. Will much regreted not having seen Edy B. Frank was the next to call and pay his regards to the family. [illegible] the cider barrel. Next on the list with [illegible] �109 14 �110 15 for his cap which he held in his hand with his mittens all the while he was searching; at just after hand clasp and a regretful good bye they were gone and V and were left alone [illegible] past one a.m. Tis over the moonlight and more than half past midnight and Frank and Will ought to have been home 5 hours ago. Forgot to say Toban was here this same evening for a gallon of cider and had to hurry home before it evaperated and lost its stimulating quality for he has an open tin pail in which to carry it. Monday 21st March 1904 It made no difference about the lateness of the hour when we retired. Sr was out 1/2 past 5 am and O! I was so sleepy but had to get up and call the girls out. After breakfast, dishes & separator washed I sit awhile by the coal stove and go fast asleep while �111 16 �112 17 came Ben Percey and "Honorable" Robert Reid They adjourned to the parlor (after a plentiful swilling of cider) and then the orgie commenced: piano, violin, singing, dancing, laughing, hollering and yelling till 11,30 pm when they agreed to home. Will & Frank have to go to Depauville well after a lot more chaff, noisy loud talking. Frank, Bob & Ben go to Sams. Frank gone for his rig while Will, Voltie and I wait in kitchen for Frank’s return. After waiting for an hour and a half V & W go forth in guest of Frank whom they find talking to his father sitting by on his bed. They got Frank started at last. They came in to say good bye to me and get another cider and a jug full beside, and supper for by this time they were hungry so I set them good lunch on the kitchen table and after filling [illegible] a lot more gab, and Will said he had [illegible] ass of himself and Frank said he [illegible] good time and I and V rebut profanity &c and Will [illegible] �113 18 �114 22 Tuesday 22nd March 1904 Arose at the usual hour. Weather looking very unfavorable for going to Kingston. V thinks he wont go then changes his mind and now the hustle and bustle begins. Hurry hurry! bring out the butter & put up the eggs. I hustle the buttermilk into the jug for Grace make out my order! Irene flying around getting her things together for she is going home. I’m sorry to see Irene go, dear little girl but she wants to go home and see them all. V says he might as well go to day and get the job done with. Sr brings the team to the door and the oak plank is piled in and a barrel of apples for sale & a bag of potatoes for Bob G and the butter and eggs and buttermilk. Irene and her valises and bundles and a box of hickory nuts, and they are tucked in furs and robes & away they go up the ice and around the point out of sight, and Maud and I return humdrum ocupation of washing dishes general housework) and so the day �115 �116 23 passes on with wind blowing a gale and rain too. V comes home early. Belle sent me a loaf of graham bread, dear Belle she is a good woman. Voltie brought all I sent for except the bottle of milk. V goes for the mail Whig Dispatch, Agriculturist, Hearth & home, 2 letters from "Turnock" and a Postal saying the medicine is in Kingston with one dollar duty charges. I wish I had had it sent to River View. �117 �118 25 Wednesday 23rd March 1904 A beautiful day, like spring. Voltie working in shop. I wash and set up new lace pattern and finish quilt blocks. V and Sr drew hay from stock, 3 loads, cleaned out hen house and hog pen. Then in pm hitched up the colts again to break them in to driving order, and drove with two young lads who are around looking for two stray dogs (Fox hounds) which they have lost while out hunting. They found the dogs at Archy Berries, drove back again and we gave them lunch for they are nearly famished with humger not having eaten anything since breakfast we fed them and their dogs. They are from Clayton. Well goes the day. Thursday 24 March 1904 A very fine morning. I go to the door to get a few deep drawn breaths of this spring morning which is as stimulating as wine how much better one fells for deeply breathing the ozone. �119 �120 31 Saturday 26 March 1904 Raining all night and raining this morn Wind South. The surface of the Earth, never, at any of the year presents a more woe stricken appearance then at this time. water, wind, dirty snow with over two thirds bare ground. Maude cleans floors. V up Rob Horns old buggy. Wind changes to north and freezes. V and M and I sit up quite late reading. V wants to be called at 4 am. I dont believe it. No use running such a risk on poor ice on Sunday morning before day light smulgling calves Sunday morning 27th March 1904 A clear bright morning, earth and ice stiffens by frost another new calf which is five all told this spring. After breakfast Voltie goes across the river to Quinn Beadles to see if he wants the calve. Sr goes with him as far as the channel to see him over. When Sr came back he reported the �121 �122 33 but as there is no Post office at the bay (River View) any more he did not get his books for the mail is now carried by rural free delivery so he dont know where they are. After dinner Wallace came and told Voltie that there is books and other mail for him at Rob Perceys. Wal goes home, gets his skates and comes directly back and he and V skate across the river and get the books, 4 of them. We all sit up reading till 10 p.m. Monday 28th March 1904 Froze hard last night. Voltie regreting that he had not run the calves over on handsled this morning before daylight and I’m glad he didn’t. After breakfast V drives to the foot to old Mrs Gillespie’s funeral. The funeral service is held at the house. her remains were brought and laid in the M E vault. She was ninety years old. Wells Sr fixing fence to keep the cattle from the hay stack. After breakfast Maud washes the clothes uncle Sam has got his washing hung out first. I wash dishes, separator, and churn the butter, and �123 �124 43 Wednesday 30 March 1904 Snow to day disapearing rappidly [sic:rapidly]] somewhat cloudy. Will Gillespie drove here for Plymouth rock eggs, wants 7 doz, 2 baked bread. Maud ironed and after dinner walked up to see Shell found the walking very slushy. Sr brought in 2 pails of sap. I wrote a long letter to Grace. Wells Sr reads all evening. Voltie read all the evening. �125 �126 41 bed wondering why the old cellar steps dont give away, and colapse, break down with the weight of 2 great men and a barrel of apples for they are 36 years old and wobbling from age and much service; once they came very near breaking my leg when I fell through a broken step. Well they are gone, butter, apples, eggs and their own precious selves, across the island they go and up the ice on the North shore, so I get up cant very well walk for pain across my back, got a kink in it some way so I put on electric belt. V and Henderson came at 3 pm they had had no dinner had been to Charlies twice going and coming. Charley went to town with them. H dont go home to Niles but hangs around here till dark then Voltie gos up with him to get rid of him I guess. Evening mail Whig, dispatch, Agriculturist, leters from Bob Gaskin, Grace, Marjorie and the Turnock meds �127 �128 Friday 1 April 1904 Another cloudy nasty windy time with patches of dirty snow and ice every. No ice traveling any more. �129 Sunday 2nd April 1904 A very nasty day a raw chilly drizzling rain falling at intervals all day. There seems to be a fight between departing winter and approaching spring. Winter had held the lines for a long time ever. since 14 November when the ground froze hard and has never thawed since that time. �130 Sunday 3rd April 1904 A cold raw day. Wind North froze hard last night. The ground lightly covered with snow this morning. After breakfast and work all done. I sit down to write in this diary. Henderson and Jack Niles here for Hendersons old buggy V has repaired. They came in and were freely treated to cider which loosened Henderson’s tongue which goes off like a bell clapper with no sence. Some how I dont like that man; he belongs to the great majority of common class, and fifth rate at that. Whew how the wind blows. It seems a long time to want for a bright, war, soft June day. �131 April 1904 & clear cold frozen morning. I dont feel very well this morning on account of loss of sleep caused by C.W. and Rod staying here so late last night; 30 minutes past midnight. �132 33 Thursday 7 April 1904 A very fine day a white frost this morning. V commenced plowing, mother calf at the barn. Will Gillespie here for eggs. 7 doz at .18 per doz. River clear of ice. Saturday 9th April 1904 Charley Woodman plowed for Voltie to day, ground very wet. Charlie is owing Voltie 7 dollars for carpenter work &c Sunday 10 April A very dirty day raw cold windy. Voltie set a hen on 14 eggs. R’s old hen. Maude had a terrible tooth ache. Wallace made us a short visit, all dressed right and dandy. Henderson made us an evening visit. �133 34 Monday 11 April 1904 A cloudy chilly day. Ice in river jamed in to stay I think. Wind S.W. and not very warm. Maude is all right this morning she bakes pies and cakes. I stew apples and make rice pud and boil and pickle beets. Evening visitors Shelly Wallace & Miss Davey. Night dark and cloudy. Tuesday 12th April 1904 A dirty rainy morning rained all night. Voltie cant plow this day. Wind East I’ll help Maud wash dishes then I’ll wash separator, churn & work butter and make prints. I didn’t make prints but worked the butter all over. Maud churned and washed all the lace curtains 8 of them. 4 pairs. and other things. Voltie did plow all day. Miss Davy here after school giving Maud a music lesson. Charley Woodman here to get V to go to Alice McKays sugar party. He (Charley) is going to invite one of the Jimmie girls. Evening mail Good stories, American House hold, Guest Farmers weekly, New thought with Thetascope and a letter from Turnock. �134 Friday 29 April 1904 Wind North It was after dark when they came [illegible] a very little tired of course and didn’t wash dishes and we had a time washing so many dishes after breakfast. I send Old Turnock, Chicago another $2,50 for second treatment which I think will be the last. Didn’t work very hard this day. Maud made table cloth and put the clothes to soak to be washed tomorrow. V working shop for tis to wet to work in the field. In the evening Shell and Miss Davey came. Mail not much this evening only Herald and Whig. Voltie plowed all day for corn. Shell and Miss Davey here till bed time. Charley & Rod here in evening. Rachel came over early this morning and went up to Belles with Charley W. �135 Saturday 30 and last of April 1904 A fine day wind N but not cold. Voltie plowing all day for corn. Sr building fire. Maud cleaned all the floors. V cultivating all day. Sr building fence. I work around all day. Sunday 1st May 1904 A fine day wind North. We are alone all day. I looked for Belle [page torn down page right side] In the evening Maud goes calling at and found shell has a bean. Byron up to W.G.’s courting. Jack gone down courting. Henderson and Miss Davey driving Mr & Mrs Niles out walk shore so Inez comes partly �136 Wednesday 13 April 1904 A very cold morning froze hard. Wind North. Voltie cant plow this day, he set a hen and drew out manure and a load of hay from the stack. Drew off a barrel of cider for vinegar Maud starched the curtains and pinned them all down on the parlor floor to dry. The snow was falling quite briskly for about an hour this am and it is cloudy now. Voltie put away the sleighs for summer in machine house. A cold raw wind blowing all day. Voltie was halting between persuasions of mind one to go to Alice Michea’s sugar party to night or stay home and read or work in shop. Concluded to stay home, but after the lapse of half an hour and nearly 8 Oclock. Beatrice came in like a whirlwind bound for the party having come from Grandmas Halliday’s with her uncle Henry he also going to the party. Then V & M wer [sic: were] positive that they wanted to go to the party and they went. �137 Thursday 14 April 1904 Another frozen morning Wind North cant plow. They came at 3 am and arose at 1/4 after 6 Oclock. I write a letter Dr Turnock PM Voltie plows two lands through snow storm. Toban here in evening for tobaco treats him to cider. Friday 15th April 1904 A clear bright morning, river sealed over with ice; froze again this morning. Maud taking up the curtains off the parlor carpet ironed the lambrequin and put it and curtains away till the rooms are cleaned. Voltie plowed again 2 lands. Sr brought in two big pails of sap. I sent a letter to Dr Turnock. Maud went calling on her friends the Niles family. Evening mail, two Whigs, Agriculturist, Heralds, Another April Hearth & Home, a letter from Grace and one from Watson. We churned �138 Saturday 16 April 1904 Wind North this morning with snow. Voltie set two hens and another hen wants to set. We now have 70 eggs setting. Miss Davy here giving Maude music lesson then went with the Niles to W.G. Woodmans visiting. Voltie plowed. Sunday 17 April 1904 Froze up morning. I read History of England nearly all day comparing Greens History with Dickenson they agree very well. Maud goes to church a very good turn out to day. The preacher preached fire and brimstone. No visitors to day. �139 Monday 18 April 1904 A dirty day. Wind [illegible] Maud took up the dining room carpet and hung it on the line. Cant do much more cleaning for the weather is miserable was going to make out all the butter prints but Alice Michea came for vinegar. Voltie put the horse in the stable and she staid till evening. She worked stitches on my crazy work cushion over lent her some book Dickens history of England, Lorna Doone & 3 New thought magazine. little Esford was with her. V gave her carrots and she drove away down the road home again just as the sun was going down behind a bed cloud. Tuesday 1904 April 19th Of all disagreeable weather this is the worst. Snowing hard and furious with ground white for a while, then wind North wind & cloudy. Spoor here with asscesment [sic: assessment] Lorna with him. Wonder if she ever means to bring home our book "Sewards travels around the world". I sent 10 cent for flower seeds to the Mystic Co. I think it is all a mistake, a myth they promise to much �140 river full of floating ice acres and [illegible] of it, brown colt fell [illegible] a harness; he has got that well [illegible] up now. Voltie went for the [illegible] [illegible] & Rod, came home with him and [illegible] [illegible] Charley Noisy; been drinking Wednesday 20 April 1904 An awful day for weather snowing and blowing all day and drifting wind N.W. Dreary and dismal last night the river froze over from shore to shore. I finished the butter 38 lbs for market and one for Jack. This weather makes me very lame. Voltie working in shop all day; only he whitewashed the the sitting room. I sorted and straightened up all the corner litterature. Maud cooked & washed dishes. Irene B washed the separator and wiped all the dishes. Maud churned and I took care of all the butter. I’ll be happy when winter is gone. �141 Thursday 21st April 1904 A smiling sunbright day warm and cheering though the ground in morning was frozen quite hard. Maude cleaned her bedroom thoroughly. Voltie plowed. In evening Miss Davey here staid till 9 pm. V went home with her. Charley & Rod here in evening it was so hot he couldnt stay very long for I was baking bread. Dad brought in one pail full of sap and ice. �142 Friday 22nd April 1904 A beautiful day. V set the tomato plants out in the sun. Maud cleaned all the woodwork in little sitting room and dining room and cleaned my bedroom. I done all the cooking and washing dishes and separator. Evening mail Herald, Dispatch, two Vickerys firesides two Hearth and Home and a letter from Turnock. V and dad [illegible] for the Browns skiff. V rowing it up [illegible] black colt. Saturday 23rd April 1904 Arose at four. V going to Kingston [illegible] to board the 1/2 past 8 am boat for V drove the black colts 38 lbs butter, [illegible] Chamber I done house work and took afternoon boiled sap now got 6 [illegible] till 10 pm waiting for V but he [illegiblel] �143 Sunday 24 April 1904 [page torn, right margin, missing text indicated with *] A mild day but getting cloudy * alone all day, no visitors. V came at * got left in Kingston and staid * and Bob. Bob Reid too staid * A very pleasant evening passed * and reading. V got his experiment * staining and hardwood finished * $2,00 and our wall paper from * Paines. Raining hard towards evening and heavy all night. Voltie again kindled a fire in coal stove. Monday 25 April 1904 Coudy. Cool this morning. A very fine day somewhat Voltie and dad drawing manure on the potato ground. V and Maud papered the small sitting room so we didn’t get to bed till 12 midnight. �144 4 Sunday 3rd March 1906 [sticker: Continued, Date 1906] [right corner torn, missing text indicated with *] A cloudy dismal day neither rain * Bare ground except an abundance of ice every * cat might slip on it; no service in church to * The roads are terrible for traveling. Maud is getting dinner While we are at dinner, Frank Woodman and George Smith Woodman came over the ice from U.S.A. gave us all the news and ate dinner here. Geo went down home and brought the horse up intending to lead him across the ice. V went with them to help him but when they were in the channel they found the ice so poor and full of holes that they turned back. [illegible] hired man, Woodard came a little while before sunset from up the island where he has been courting the widow Cavelry and hastened across the ice. said "he must go or they would think he had got in a hole. Voltie watched him with the glass as long as he could see him to see that he hadnt get in a hole. Whitmarsh come about 4 pm [illegible] rode down as far as Montgomerys with Lancaster the English prelate �145 Monday 5 March 1906 [left corner torn, missing text indicated with #] # this morning. Frank & George # accompanied by old C.W. Voltie drove up the island # McDonalds, with a grist for hog feed, left it there and returned in # dinner. Maud and I sort a peck of beans # clear. North door squeaking, North wind. Tuesday 6 March 1906 I write several letters one to Nellie Brooks, one to Belle, one to Grace, one to Capt Cummings, one to Wall, one to Rachel. Hannah Flynn here to say Capt Cummings want R to cook on the Wolfe Islander the coming season. Maud cleans all the floors. Sr bottoms chairs. Voltie works in shop, my left foot ancle and leg feels cold and stiff. Evening Voltie goes to post office, "Dispatch", "Madame", "Household guest" a letter from Grace, Chase Almanac & that is all Wednesday 7 March 1906 A cloudy morning. 2 deg below freezing. Voltie gone to the villiage and will cross if he can. He drove up on wheels no sleighing no snow �146 Wednesday 18 March 1906 Tuesday 13 March 1906 [left corner torn, missing text indicated with #] # Weather about same as yesterday. # and I had a fine visit. Evening set the # going till 11 Oclock pm. A little feathery snow this morning but soon cleared up. Wednesday 14 Belle and the children went home; started about 10 a.m. A raw cold wind blowing from the East. Oh the lonesomeness of the house since Belle went away. Evening no phonograph this eve instead Voltie & Whitmarsh after sawing great logs for firewood go putting corks and lead on fish nets. Thursday 15th March East wind. Trying to snow; a few light feathery flakes. V working in shop making leads for fish nets and bobs to float the nets, then shoed a horse. After supper Fred helped him saw wood till he jamed his finger. Then V put leads on nets till bed time. Maud got a bad cold. Sr sorted beans. I worked on Mauds cushion and helped cook and wash dishes and so ends the day �147 10 a.m. Sunday 11 March 1906 [right corner torn: missing text will be indicated with a *] Ground froze quit hard last night * this morning. Dont get up very early, we * now got done with the mornings work. I * bread & graham bread, washed dishes a great lot * pots, pans, kettles, scour knives & forks & spoons * makes beds, sweeps & dusts. V. F and Sr reading Maud went to church, scant audience. No horn to day so Lillie Woodman asked Maud to sing which she does. After dinner, Maud goes up to Niles and I bake the bread and wash dishes, men folks all read. Oh such a long lonesome sleepy sunday, so very hot in kitchen. I open the door and in rushes 5 cats, grey striped spotted black and white. Well I’ll let them stay in awhile. Maud came in time to help get dinner. Whiled away the evening in reading. Monday 12 March 1906 A very good day some snow this morning about like a feather, froze. V drew wood from Dailys wood and while we were at dinner Belle came bringing Charlie & Henry & the phonograph. So excepting the meals everything was put aside for music and a visit �148 [top & bottom right corners torn, missing text indicated with *] Friday 16 March 19 A half cloudy day, no snow. V and Sr drawing wood sled len * Greggors down to Woodmans for hay. Fred * home to villiage to night going to walk. Maud * a bad cold I gave her some hot whiskey. I guess * her head ache poor little girl. I try to do all I can which is not much with a cane fo a supp * After dinner gone again for more wood from Dailys. Evening snowed. V went for mail, gone only a few minutes. Herald, Hearth Stone, Good Litterature, a letter from Ethel Dixon & a postal from Nellie Brooks. 12 eggs. Saturday 17 March 1906. A bright cold morning, a light snow on the ground. Voltie gone to Dailys woods for a load of wood. Another calf which makes two. Not going to raise it; tis to small. I’m so afflicted with * and cold feet. I can scarcely get around * with the support of a cane. Voltie has come * for another load of wood. �149 Sunday 18th March 1906 A very fine day but a cold morning, froze last night sat up till nearly 11 pm reading; we arose at 7 am and had a quiet peaceful sabath day. Maud went to church in afternoon; going to start a revival meting here begins tomorrow night. Fred came in time for supper. This is Beatrice birthday 19 years old to day. 13 eggs. Monday 19 March 1906 Froze again last night; very cloudy and dark around the horizon, looks like snow storm. Maude undertook the washing but only suceeded in putting them in the tub. Bill McDonel came for beans and consequently staid to dinner on account of having to sort the beans. Sr, Voltie & yours truly picked over a peck of beans while Maud finished the dinner. Beginning to snow. Voltie finished one net and hung up another to put on corks and *. Bed time snowing fast and furious & 8 eggs. Tuesday 20 March 1906 �150 Sunday 1st April Sun bright shining, but froze last night Dont look much like spring for tis chilly enough Coal nearly all gone. Voltie and Fred at the shop. I guess Voltie has forgoten to cool and turn the eggs and trim the lamp. Now they have gone away some where, dont know where. Wells Sr put the last of the coal in the stove at 15 minutes past 10 am. Voltie and Fred have been down the shore looking for clamshells V had forgoten all about the incubator but he trimed the lamp and turned the wick to high and the thermometer had risen to 107 deg. Maud went to church in pm but no preacher there. We had raspberry short cake for dinner and boiled eggs for supper. A clear sunset, a hole down through the ice. Monday 2nd of April Another frozen morning but clear. I am very lame this morning not only in my back and knees & hips but my right arm in shoulder is very lame; experienced difficulty in dressing myself but helped wring the clothes. I washed dishes, separator, cooked the meals. Maud done big washing lines full, we washed a quilt; only 8 eggs to day our hens dont lay very well. 26 hens all young pullets. �151 Tuesday 3rd April 1906 Ice breaking up and floating down stream. A clear bright day sent a letter to Grace. Maud has to work to hard for she has done all the work to day, poor dear Maud. I wish I could get around and help more. V went over to fix Dailys fence where they drew wood through. Mrs Daily came over and V lent Merritt a bag of potatoes, sold her a peck of beans, gave her two bottles of catsup and a can of tomatoes and a peck of apples. Evening mail a lot of advertsing matter, a letter from Irene Halliday, McClures magazine, Farmers Dispatch Wednesday �152 [bottom right corner torn, missing text indicated with *] Thursday 5 April 1906 froze again last night, clear looks like rain off in the South. V works in shop all am and in afternoon draws stone. Sr splits and piles wood. Maud weaves rags for rugs while I sow [sic: sew] them on. We making a a rug for Grace. This is the eleventh day for the incubator hatch. Evening every body reading except Irene, beginning to snow. Fred fixed the separator all right. Wednesday 4 April V worked in shop and drew stone. Whitmarsh climbs top of the fence looking for V & stretching * up like a gobbler, till at last he discovers Voltie * down he jumps and away he runs to the * where V is drawing stone. Sr splitting a piling * Friday 6 April 1906 Awoke this morning to find the ground white with snow but it soon disapears and at 11 am not a sign of snow to be seen. V draws stone awhile early this morn on stone boat. I sent a letter to Grace by Wells Sr sorted a pot of beans to cook quite a hay �153 30 March 1906 Friday A cloudy dirty looking morning. We had just washed our dishes and had done morning’s work done when "Merrit & Jane" came visiting, staid nearly all day till it began to rain. I made a strawberry shortcake for dinner and Mrs D entertained us with piano music (hymns) and at last they went home then we prepared for making pumkin pies &c, rains quite briskly for a short time and that ends it. Saturday 31st March 1906 A frozen morning, clear sky, North wind, bare ground an ice bound river, and hoping and hoping for spring made cookies, pumkin pies, loaf cake, boiled meat, baked bread. V and F out sawing logs and working in shop. Voltie tested eggs in incubator found some bad ones. I commenced a piece of lace little Helen Brooks petticoat knit two scollops. Whitmarsh smoked so much he made himself sick but I think cider had a bad effect too. �154 Friday Froze again last night. Voltie at home all day working in shop most of the time. We dont send any mail to day. Fred going to the villiage after school, on skates if he can get there which is doubtful for the ice is very doubtful and shaky. Maud and I have a very busy quiet time getting the meals and piecing at the gritts. [illegible] sits by the stove most of the time squirting tobaco spit on the floor and stove; a very mild day no snow ground bare as October. Evening mail. Herald, American Home (a good for nothing paper) The Herald, picture of Queen Alexandra, her grand children and dogs, a beautiful picture, the very best the Herald ever sent out; a letter from Helen Brooks which I was well pleased to get—and I think that [illegible] Voltie went for the mail, and then went to [illegible] to inquire if there is any traveling on ice by the [illegible] for V is anxious to go to Kingston to get a [illegible] for the hogs ten of them. He returned at 10 and found no one home but Johny. The rest of the family had [illegible] Dignams for an evening visit. While V was at OBriens and Geo Rattrays man came and they and Johny played cards �155 10 am Sunday A dirty rainy day. Sr and Voltie go to the funeral; no body came from over the river, crossing must be very bad. There was not so great an attendance at grandpa Geo Woodman’s funeral as would have been had the weather been favorable. Rev Mr Morehouse preached the service. Rev Mr Roadhouse was present and said something also. Mr Dignam Sr came home with V & Sr and had a glass of cider and ate dinner with us. As it is a fast day he would eat no meat. V fried eggs and he ate three. They were fried in meat gravy; The gravy for potatoes was made with fried meat drippings, the beans were cooked with pork, and he didnt know how much beef there was in his mince pie but when done eating he said "I thank God I’ve had a good dinner". He had no breakfast this morning, he stoped a couple of houses and visited with us and then buttoning close his over coat he went home, (walking) with umbrella unfurled over his [illegible] A dark gloomy afternoon and evening. I thought [illegible] had blocks enough to finish the quilt but not yet [illegible] few more. Voltie painting Rubes buggy tongue [illegible] �156 Fred gone to the village. walked up through the mud. Sent by Jim for separator oil, rotten Stone, and mailed a letter to Grace Evening mail, Herald, a lot of advertising matter, and a letter from Gladys. Saturday 7 April 1906 A frozen morning river full of floating ice sun bright. Voltie leveled the front door yd and made two flower beds. Maud and June made chocolate cake, cookies, pumkin pies and bread and baked apples. Maud cleaned floors. Sunday 8th April 1906 A bright sunny day. Maud abed. I gave her big dose whiskey sling guess that will cure her. V helped me do up the dishes and separator and we are cooking hocks and turnips and carrots for dinner. V set the table for dinner An extinct hive. V took the honey from about 20 or 25 lbs only four hives left. Whitmarsh came about 4 pm bringing villiage news. Louis Farish in the asylum. Melville [illegible] .. dead &c, etc �157 Monday 9 April 1906 Wind North, cloudy, dark in South. This is fifteenth day for the incubator hatch. It rained then snowed. Whitmarsh forgot his umbrella and walked home through the rain. Voltie went on the other place to cultivate and worked till it began to rain about ten a.m. then came home. 7 little [illegible] in the icehouse Whitmarsh & Voltie setting up fish nets. �158 Wed 24th Feb 1909 A very rainy day ground nearly bare again rain falling continually all day. I patched a pair of pants for V. Voltie working in shop all day. Phoned for for Will Davis to drive to H Halliday to bring Irene home. Frank W here. W Niles called on V at the shop where V is making boat ribs Davis brought Irene home at 10 p.m., tied his nag, came in and warmed himself by the coal stove and then drove home to the villiage 14 miles. �159 Thursday 25 Feb 1907 A clear cold day wind N.W., ground hard frozen and bare nearly. Voltie drew hay for R and curried her pork & hen feed. Ray McIntyre came over and went up to see Wall Niles. Voltie went out to try the ice, found it good enough for a horse in evening. V., M and Stella Taggart, John Murray on ice skating till 11 pm while Irene, Ray and Harold Dignum staid here till Voltie & Maud rehearsed. Friday 26th February 1909. A fine pleasant day. Sr drove to Clayton on ice. V drove over with Irene to Marjories. Ray went home after breakfast. Maud cleaned floors and made a cake. Grandpa bought 10 yds of plain blue calico for Irene a dress, a pair of shirts for himself and a pair for Voltie, 2 quarts of syrup. Lib sent me a years subscription of Hearth stone. Stella came down from school ate supper with us and V & M & Stella went skating over to Marjories. V drew two bags of potatoes. �160 hand sled sent Irenes dress cloth cloth over to Marjories. Stella came back stoped awhile and V skated home with her to Morgans. Charley Halliday & Riff drove here for Charleys oats. Perhaps he is going to smuggle them. If he does he will make a mistake. Saturday 27 Feb A cloudy morning not very cold. V drove to Kingston on the ice stopping a Morgans for Stella who is going to go with V as far as the villiage. Went up in covered cutter. O how I hate to write this. He came back drunk. Terrible Terrible My poor boy drunk. Sunday 28 February 1909 A very fine day. V and M skated across the river to Arthur’s found them all there hadnt moved yet. V skated home. Lib and Van came bringing me some sourkrout. V saked across for Maud. Had a fine �161 Monday 1 day of March 1909 A fine day. V gone to Kingston with grist for hog feed and to get lumber sawed came home after dark, drunk Tuesday 2 Wednesday 3rd A cloudy windy day. Voltie gone to W.G. Woodman for the remainder of his wood bought logs ash log for for waggon tongues sent to Cape by Geo Niles for my scrap book. V went over to Rachels to get her hair dye money, but instead she sent the money for bread and snuff. V & I dressed two roosters for her after dark to carry to market �162 Thursday 4 March Inaugation [sic: Inauguration] day for President Taft. Roosevelt steps down and out, a north windy day wind blowing hard all night. Sent Grace a few things. Maud finished making sheets and pillow cases. V went Graces to dinner. Got the lumber sawed for wagon tongues, he bought corn meal and rolled wheat. bought snuff and bread for Rachel. Snowing hard all pm ground white. Friday 5 March 1909 A very fine day. Rachel came over for her bread and — V carried her home on sleigh and drew two loads of stone to finish or help build the cellar wall. Evening mail is New Thought, Herald, letter from Grace, Rachels Peoples home journal, Prinning Phones to V, Morality Morgan and John Murray came for Stellas over shoes or rubbers. One New Thought missing. January number lost by this terribly mismanaged post office of Woodmans. �163 Saturday 6 March 1909 Very fine day. Voltie drew two loads of straw & two loads of stone for the cellar. Maud made bread, cookies, cake, boiled pork, cleaned floors. Wells Sr cant do much, he is old and his health not very good. Laura Dignum phones to Maud. Sunday 7th March 1909 No one here this day except our own selves, and so nobody came nor any body went. The snow falling constantly and continualy all all day every thing, tree, shrub, roofs, fences earth ladened with snow wherever the snow can settle. Every thing outdoors is ghostly white, but we are comfortably smugly warm while we read read read. �164 �165 Thursday 11 March 1909 A very fine day. Jerry Murphy and his son Stuart here assessing. V bargained for an oak tree to get the logs sawed into lumber. �166 Friday 12 March 1909 Charley Dixon came over to day and we were extremely pleased to see him and hear from the folks at home and know that they are all well. Saturday 13th March 1909 Voltie went to Kingston accompanied by Charley. They started 7,30 am, drove to Murphys woods and while sawing and felling the great oak and it proved to be hollow. They sawed and cut another oak and falling lodged in another tree but with the combined effort of Jerry, his sons, Voltie & Charley they succeeded in dislodging it, trimed it free from limbs arrived at last in Kingston saw mill and then at Horns for dinner at 2 pm faint, weary and hungry. V eats to heartily, came home quite early tired, ate pea soup a big bowl full. �167 Sunday 14 March 1909 14 and arose this morning sick from the effects of over feeding and hard labor but never would give in and go to bed but pokes around all day. Monday 15 March 1909 Charley Dixon went home from here this pm started about 1.30. V not very well he drank a full bottle of Fowlers Extract of Wild strawberry without any result. �168 Monday 15 February 1909 Arose at 1/2 past 6. V intended going to K with oak log to get sawed for boat ribs. It rained and snowed all day thermometer down to zero. V drew hay for R and worked in shop the remainder of day. Irene & Maude made cakes, cookies and fried cakes. Sr sorted beans for market and to plant. I mended V pants & Louise done helped wash dishes and done as she pleased. Wm Gillespie went to Kingston for an opperation [sic: operation] for appendicitus. Evening visitors Mrs Dignem & her children Herbert, Tom, Harald and Danra & wee Alden McDonald, John Flynn & John Murry & Mrs Redic and Compos and Stella Taggart and Mabel Morgan and Mary Bulger and Frank Woodman and Emma Woodman and Ethel Reid. It was three Oclock am when at last we went to bed and our visitors went home in a great Northern snow storm. �169 Tuesday 16 February 1909 Stormy morning and storms all day. Maud cleans the floors after the exit of our visitors. V went over to Rachels to feed her cow; The day passes away quietly with howling wind and fierce snow storm, the very first snow drifts this winter, all the mail this day dont amount to much only one post for Maud. Wednesday 17 Feb 1909 A clear day wind west & cold. The girls (Irene and Maud) want to go to the dance at the villiage and they go. V hitches up before the cutter and they go up on the ice but before he goes V hitches up and drove over to R and carries Louise over there and looks after her stock. I write letters to Belle & Grace also send to Pugsley and Dingnan for books with soap wrappers. �170 Saturday 13 Feb 1909 A fine day. Arthur Vincent came over, carried Belles’ pickles and some potatoes. Sunday 14th A nasty dreary dismal day rains and snows. We read and doze most of the day. V went over to R to feed her cow. Had late meals to day. Evening Voltie popped corn. �171 Thursday 11 February 1909 A fine day. Snow spoiling the ice for skating some snow lightly covering the ground. V gone to Kingston to day with a load of oats. Came home to late to eat supper with us so we kept it warm on the warming oven. Friday 12 Feb 1909 A fine day. Voltie working all day in shop ironing at Wm Gillespie’s sleigh. William Gillespie helping V all day till 9 Oclock pm. Sent to Park for flower seed ,70 cts. Evening mail, Herald, Good Litterature. �172 Tuesday 16 Wednesday 17 March 1909 St Patrick’s Day �173 Thursday 18 March 1909 Beatrice Halliday Schram 22 years old this day. Friday 19 �174 Saturday 20 Sunday 21st March 1909 A fine day. Ray came over. Maud staid all night at Rachels came home at 10 am staid to dinner. �175 Monday 22nd March 1909 A fine day. Ray & V drawing hay from Rachels. Stella came from school as to make us a little visit and stay all night, found the walking pretty soft and mudy. V tapped our few trees. Tuesday 23rd March 1909 A beautiful day, warm and bright, a robin singing in the apple tree. Maud washed and cleaned floors. Hung all the clothes on the veranda line. �176 Wednesday 24 March 1909 A long time ago since I wrote in my diary some times I think I’ll never write again in a diary but I like to; wish sometimes I had always kept a diary since childhood. The day is very mild for March, 40 deg above zero. Cloudy all day looks like rain; more bare ground than snow. V filed Dignums cross cut saw. Harold came for the saw this morning. Ray helping V work in shop. Sr out doors most all day. R came over to dinner. Gave her fried cakes, milk, popcorn, pork (just a few slices). Wallace N is trapping for muskrat. Maud fried cakes and stewed raisons. Frank here using our telephone. Maud got a bad headache went to lie on the lounge awhile, slept, got up much better & helped put the supper on table. Evening V & Ra played checkers, we retire early. Most forgot to say One year ago this day Wellie was here, came across early this morning and staid with us over night. Edy Bates burried one year ago this day. Dear Edy Bates. �177 Thursday 25 March 1909 Oh what a nasty mudy raining slopy weather, ground bare with dirty patchs of snow; brook running like a mill dam. Ray wants to go over the river but cant cross for weather and danger of getting in, so he and V are boat building in the shop. Sr mending old harness in kitchen. I should think the harness mending would sometime be done but it goes on the year around. Tis 9 am jsut through with dishes, knives, forks, pots, pans, pails & sundries. Now I have to go immediately and pick over beans for dinner, a very interesting job. So here goes I. Well beans are cooking. Wellie crossed over the ice from us a year ago to day. We watched him as long as we could him a little black dot away on the other shore. V went across with im. last night dreamed of Will and Harry Watson �178 Friday 26 March 1909 Dear Marjorie. Ground covered with 3 inches of snow this morning, dreary dismal outlook. I never have been to Mary Woodman’s but dreamed I went there, drove there in buggy. V went with me. How very beautiful everything was as we drove along the road, trees, flowers, singing birds and I so free from all care. Wind west and cold, an open spot in the ice above the house. Ray went across to the U.S.A. this morning. V working in the shop Letter from Grace & the herald. Saturday 27th March 1909 Very good day. Frank Woodman here speaking through the telephone about his enjine [sic: engine]. V working on boat. Maud made cake, bread, baked beans. I pieced on quilt. �179 Sunday 28 March 1909 A fine warm day quiet. Maud went to Rachels. Sr reads all day. V goes over to R’s to see if she has any wood. I read and get the meals and wash dishes etc. Tomatoes coming up. Monday 29 March 1909 A very fine day sowed more tomato seeds. Frank W gone to Kingston this morning crosssing to town very poor crossing with only one horse. Rachel came over this morning before breakfast brought me some magazines. Maud popping corn this am. I ought to write a lot of letters to Grace, Belle, Will & Watson and others. Sat up late reading. Maud not very well. V working in shop at day after chopping wood for R. R wants to keep bees. Dora Bates’s baby sick had Dr for him. �180 Tuesday 30 March 1909 Cloudy warm day 40 deg in shade. Maude got head ache and lain down. V working in shop all day. Sr tinkering old aggate wash dish trying to solder it "Simple Simon" or old Josiah Allen which? We are boiling sap on the stove and I get the meals and piece on quilt, sow few flower seeds, water and count the tomatoes plants, 53 new ones just came up out the ground. No mail to night except one letter for V telling him the berry baskets are at Corbett’s. Tuesday 31st & last day of March A clear bright & warm, snow most all gone; boiling more spa on the stove. Maud washing. V working shop, he went down to Franks to see how the new drill works. Guernsey & Wm Gillespie eating dinner at Frank Woodmans. �181 Wednesday April 1st 1909 A beautiful bright warm day. Rachel came over to breakfast and for hen feed. V working in shop all day. Grandad gathered the sap but Franks kids had been before him and had drunk about half. Heard Clayton is burnt. Hubbard house and all. Maud washed on Wednesday that is this day. I done house work, and pieced on quilt. Maud went over to Rachels for calico scraps. Thursday 2nd April 1909 A beautiful warm day, snow all gone but one dirty patch left this side of the grainery. V working in the shop again all day. I done house work and pieced on quilt. �182 Friday 3rd April 1909 A fine warm day looks like rain in the South and hazy. V set the bees out door 7 hives all alive and fine, one came in and stung me. Maud brought the clothes in and washed them again for the bees had them pretty well spotted. Maud is mad about the bees dirtying the clothes. I baked beans and Maud made custard. Sr patched his pants I wrote and sent a letter to Belle and sent one to Grace and a few lines to Mrs Ranous about Dodds Kidney pills. �183 April 1909 Sunday 5 A beautiful day no rain quiet & peaceful. Clarence Percy here. I wrote a long letter to Will but guess I wont send it now I’ll wait awhile. Monday 6 April 1909 A beautiful warm day. Clarence Percy here ice cant get aross the river. He discarded his relatives, they are so very dirty and filthy, cant visit them tho that is his purpose here on the island. He is helping V clean seed grain if V can ever get the time from working on the neighbors more old waggons, drills and tongues to make and repair than ever. He worked last night till [illegible] pm (this is Tuesday) Henry Halliday here for dinner and seed peas. �184 Tuesday 7 April 1909 Warm and hazy nor rain. Clarence Percy here yet V went down to Geo Gillespies to borrow his (Geo’s) ensilage cutter. We expect Frank and his gang here to dinner. Tis 1/2 past 9 am work all done up, dishes washed and beds made, sweeping done. Maude has a lame back cutting corn here. Wednesday 8 April 1909 Corn cutting done here to day with corn cutter and enjine [sic: engine] �185 Thursday 9 Friday 10 �186 Saturday 11 Sunday 12 �187 Monday 13 Tuesday 14 �188 Wednesday 15 Thursday 16 �189 Friday 17 Saturday 18 �190 Sunday 19 Monday 20 �191 Tuesday 21 Wednesday 22 �192 Thursday 23 Friday 24 �193 April Saturday 25 1909 Saturday Voltie went to the villiage and to Kingston didn’t get home till nine pm X stupid April Sunday 26 1909 Wind blowing half a gale but notwitstanding all that we had to have visitors from over the river. Ray McIntyre not contended with bringing himself but brough along a great hulking bull of a fellow named Belenger who is working for Frank Schrum and wants to be a ring prize fighter. Wind blows so they have to stay all night. Wall here and Tom Dignum in the evening. �194 Monday 27 27 Tuesday 28 28 �195 Wednesday 28 1909 April Thursday 29th A very fine morning but soon became cloudy gathering for a storm. Granddad [sic: Grandad] and Maud went to Kingston on the boat. Wal drove over to dock while V helped me get breakfast. R came over and helped get dinner and staid till towards 4 pm then she walked home. Wallace drove to the docks. Grandad brought home a dog a nine months old pup. �196 Tuesday 21st September 1909 A long interval between writing in this diary, many an event incident have occured and passed on forever since the last record. This a beautiful autumn day. V digging potatoes over on R’s. Wells Sr gone to the cheese factory. V gone to the dock for coal instead of digging potatoes. Maud ironing starched sclothes. Emma preparing for school and I am while I still continue to make apple preserves. �197 Friday 30 April 1909 A bad rainy day. Wallace went home after breakfast to help clean house, paper and paint. Voltie worked on nets all day. Mr Ranous no better going to hopsital tomorrow. Some river pirate pushing at the foot of island. �198 �199 �This document would not be possible without the editorial contributions of the following people: Ann Hopkinson, Markeeta Rosenow, Ella Deering, Eric Irvine, guest_user, and Queen’s University Archives � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Collection Subject The topic of the resource 19th and 20th Century Rural Ontario Diaries Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Courtesy of Queen's University Archives Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1887-1922 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Frontenac County, Wolfe Island, Ontario Table Of Contents A list of subunits of the resource. Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1887 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1888-1889 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1889-1897 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1890 March - June Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1893-1895 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1895-1899 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1896 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1897-1898 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1898 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1899 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1899-1900 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1900 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1902, 1906 parts of Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1902-1909 parts of Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1904-1905 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1907 & 1918 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1908-1919 parts of Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1911 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1913 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1913-1914 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1915-1916 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1916-1917 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1917-1918 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1918 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1921-1922 Language A language of the resource English Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1902-1909 parts of Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Courtesy of Queen's University Archives Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1902-1909 parts of Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 20th Century, Frontenac County, Wolfe Island, Ontario Date Created Date of creation of the resource. August 23rd, 1902 (p. 33) Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Collection Medium The material or physical carrier of the resource. Typed Transcription UG Transcription Progress Scripto transcription progress Done transcribed https://ruraldiaries.lib.uoguelph.ca/transcribe/files/original/c44fcbb509c197c5d1a3dc387afae6ca.pdf caa636f228c6699d336754c6233c757b PDF Text Text Irene Dixon Bamford parts of 1902, Diary Transcription 5034_4-1-14 �Metadata FromThePage export of 5034_4-1-14 from Irene Dixon Bamford made on 2026-02-11 14:35:17 UTC. itemTitle: Parts of 1902 and 1906 date: 1902-1906 Title: 5034_4-1-14 Description: Item is a diary. Created On: 2024-01-11 17:48:56 UTC In Scope: true Uploaded Filename: 5034_4-1-14 �1 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Partsof 102 and 106 1902-1906 [stamp] Queen’s University Archives Locator 5034.4 Box 1 File 19 �2 Parts of 1902 and 1906 �3 Date 1902 & some 1906 [upside down in bottom right corner] ReRead ’76-’84 �4 Monday 24 Feb 1902 Bob Reid slept here last night. He and Voltie hopped out of bed this morning at 1/2 past 2 O’clock am and hastily swallowing a cold lunch hitched old Jess before the dog cart and drove to North shore to rim his pike nets - 4 of them, and returned at 7 pm. I didn’t get up till 1/2 past 5 am. The boys returned in time for breakfast. The ground is very soft after the rain so wet that planting will have to wait till pm, in mean time V & Bob break the black colt to drive Very Interesting �5 Monday 24 1902 A Cloudy thick morning and rains in pm. Voltie and his father fill the ice house. Jim O’brien getting out ice too, for himself. Young Brigeland here to dinner. A man from Kingston here this pm and bought our fowl they came to $4,55. V gave me the money and I gave him two dollars back to buy groceries �6 Tuesday 25 Feb 1902 Arose early so Voltie can go to Kingston. K drove up with the bob’s on the ice, didnt get back till after dark brought coal and groceries for him self & I pork, sugar, rolled oats, soda &c I dont feel very well. Voltie ate dinner with Grace. Maud done big washing and hung them all on line together with 5 new sheets & 6 pillow slips to bleach. Grace sent the dried punkin, a can of chow chow and a can of preserved tomatoes. I sent her Reggies napkins & a book "Lady of the lake" and print for a dress. �7 Wednesday 26 Feb 1902 A soft warm day. Wells went early this morning with Voltie to Hickory drove down on the ice, came back & worked around all day fattening pitched hay in the barn. Then went over there, and pitched hay off stock. Snow settling. In evening he went back over there and let her know he was going to K tomorrow and she could go if she wants too. Wells goes to bed tired out. I not very well took a nap in pm. �8 Thurs Feb 27 1902 A thick fog this morning cant see from here to the river, clears away towards noon and the sun comes out most brilliantly warm, the big snow banks are settling rapidly. Wells gone to Kingston on the ice. R going with him to get clothes for mother to go out to Wills. Maud gone over to stay all day with Grannie and I am alone with the cat and dog for company. I sow tomato seed in a box, bake pies cake, boil meat, bake bread and dont feel very well �9 machine going away round the road to Dighams. Niles came for cucumbers. I help Rachel churn butter wont gather come home at sunset found Grace, Maud, Marjorie and Tom & sitting for the garden party at Geo Ranous. When Voltie came home from threshing Oh Dignams the gals rode down in dog cart while Arthur and Tom walks. �10 Tuesday 3rd Sept 1901 A fine day. Wind South. V gone to Hickory to secure his job - rode down with Ewoodmans hired man. Tom Chatteron plowing for V. Arthur cutting ensilage corn Maud, Grace and I doing the washing. Marjorie went to the post office for me with a letter for Flora Bamford. Rachel came over with letter to post for Will’s folks. I sent Arthur with it Made me promise I’d go there this pm. dont want to go but I will try and get there Eli I get there. On the way met young abbot, Wm Woodman and threshing �11 Feb 28 Friday 1902 A cloudy morning rained some thawed all night. Wills came at 5 pm brought load of lumber, set sleigh box on top of lumber and stuck himself and Rachel on top of the lumber in the elivated sleigh box going shimpy on hard trading for horses after unloading R’s groceries and our few things, he hitched horse to light bobs and took Rachel and her groceries home and brought Maud home. We have supper all ready when they return. Wells Sr very tired and lame but has to do all his chores alone. he goes to bed early. I sit up till 1/2 10 pm. Maud get sore throat . V & I doctor her with Kerosine and fat pork. �12 Friday 28 February 1902 Comenced [sic] this on opposite page The work in this house is endless and I’m not very well but will pull through all right I believe. I hear Maud working away at the breakfast dishes and must help her now. Maud sent to the comfort soap company for a book, Ivanhoe sent 10 cts and ten trade marks. Wells volunteered his service to carry the letter to post and went through slush across field. We are mending socks and stockings to day. Wells went to post office received the Whig and family Herald & a leeter from Grace. I doctored Maud for sore throat. �13 Saturday 1st March 1902 Thawing now every day, partly cloudy partly sun but slush and mud knee deep and over shoes every where - dirty pools and puddles of water and disapearing snow banks covered with dirt. Wind N.E. dark clouds hovering all around the horizon. Wells went over and pitched in hay for R. and she sent over two lbs butter. Maud cleaned the floors, and swept & made beds & cooked and washed dishes and baked beans washed the churn & set it away till spring. Maud found her lost ring for which I’m very thankful for it was her mothers weding ring. Wells drove down for Voltie and brought home Volties skiff. Supper ready when they come. Lennie Paterson here till 10 pm. �14 Sunday 2 March 1902 Rain all day. Voltie broke the sabath by fileing the saws. No one here to day. We read and doze and get the meals. No service in church to day. Not a rig on the road. Evening Maud pops corn. Voltie reads "The man from Glengary" and "Robery under arms". �15 Monday 3rd March 1902 A cloudy dismal morning mud, bare ground, long streaks of dirty snow drifts, a sad S.W. wind. Voltie got up at 4 went back to bed slept till 5, arose again put his box on the sled after going to barn for it. I held the lamp in the door while he cut a walking stick and away he goes down on the ice to Hickory before V goes he builds the fire and I get breakfast after Voltie goes. when breakfast is ready I call Wells Sr and then I call Maud. comenced a dress for Maud. Growing colder and freezing. Wells can’t put hay in barn on account of wind. �16 Tuesday 4th March 1902 [written upside down] Maud went to post office sent a letter to Grace, she went again at eve only the whig and some advertising letters. A fine morning but rather cold, froze hard last night and the river fine for skating. Wells drove to Millens Bay for Kerosine 6 gallons, asked for Syrup but the store keeper had none, had dinner ready when he returned. Maud cleaned floors and worked. I put the flower and Mauds skirt and baked beans and made cake. P.M. Wells went over to tother place to pitch hay for the cow. Shell came for Maud to go skating. Maud went. Evening Inez came for Maud and they all went skating till 10 pm. Maud, Inez, Shell, Byron, Irvine, Jack Niles, Len Patterson, Len came here for skate straps. �17 Wednesday 5 March 1902 A cloudy morning rather cold and frozen; Wind North. Wells gone to Kingston drove up on the ice with one horse (old Nell). He gone for a pig box &c. The horse races are in Kingston to day. The Woodmans are going. Heard Percy Gillespie is in Kingston Hospital sick with apendicitis. Had an oppration [sic]. Heard Belles children have whooping cough. Heard Arthur Knapp is at Wellies. The clouds look like a snow storm. Wells came at early dark Lenonard Patterson [sic] rode down with Wells. Charley Woodman to Reids. Leonard makes us an evening visit gave us some chocolate caramels. I had dinner all ready when Wells returned and we had a jolly cozy evening Len helped Wells do the chores. Maud and Irene served most all day. Rachel came over and Maud went to post office for R. She received a letter from Wills Topper and they have moved to Depauville. �18 Thursday 7th March 1902 Ground frozen hard this morning, a fine morning. I finished Mauds dress and away she goes on skates up to Mrs Niles for buttermilk and I make buckwheat cakes and try some of the new syrup which is fine. Wells drew a load of wood from Lindy’s island. A little before tea time Geo Darling and his man drove in here. I was afraid they would want to stay all night. But no they went to their old stopping place Geo Gillespie. He shook hands very cordially and wanted to bring in another cady of tea. I said no we have enough left from the one we have now to last another year, but all the same he insisted upon bringing in another caddy. I said go to the barn and see Bamford "all right �19 he said he would, and away he went and while he was gone to the barn, I took the occasion to empty his tea caddie thinking he would want to take it along with him as he always had done before. I had 10 qrts and over in a big tin pail which was full to over flowing and another qrt dish full besides. Darling was gone a long time at the barn and at last he and Bamford came to the house, Darling came lugging in another big caddy and I asked. What is that and he said sugar! granulated sugar for you to make taffy; and I thought it was sugar and was pleased although I though Wells was very extravagant, and Wells came in, in a moment after and I said "did you take that caddy and he said rather sheepishly "yes! but we can sell it. I said you are buying sugar to sell. Sugar! why it is tea! I thought of old �20 Josiah Alen. Well I said do you know how much tea we have left from last years purchase "No." I said, well here it is and brought forth the pail full and the qurt full beside. Wells Sr looked astonished. Darling’s man said ’For God Sake’ and Mr Darling said Oh that tea lasts too long. Any way he examined it, perhaps to make sure it was the same he left here a year ago, he said This is the genuine article, and said, put it back in the can and keep the can till I call for it. So now we have two caddys of tea sitting side by side in the pantry - but the astonishing thing about the whole business is this. Wells Sr said before Darling came for we were expecting him that he would only pay for what tea we had used and he should take the remainder back. �21 and what unaccountable spell he worked upon Sr, while at the barn. I dont understand. It is that soft insinating way of his. I think he would wheadle old Satan into a bargain. He came half whispering to me and said "Does Grace ever say any thing about me?" I said Oh yes Mr Darling she often speaks of you. We urged them to stay to tea but kindly thanking us they proceeded on their way. Before leaving he told us "Mr Niles had taken another caddie of tea, same quality same quantity. Maud, Shell, Inez & ByronIrvine & Len Patterson out skating till 9 pm �22 Friday 8th March 1902 A frozen morning. Wells Sr draws wood from the island. I bake beans, cookies, 3 currant pies and lots of other work, cant think of everything and it make no difference if it is never recorded. remember sending to the post office 2 letters one to Briggs seed company and one to JH Sutherland and must send away again this week for more seeds &c �23 March Saturday 9th 1901 A windy chilly & very disagreeable day, wind North. Sr draws wood from Lindy. Bob Reid helping him both Friday & Saturday. I looked all day for Grace & Bob and baby but all in vain. I dont think now they would be foolish enough to start out on such a day. They may have come as far as Charlies and staid for a visit. Wells started at 4 p.m. and drove to Hickory for Voltie, coming back just at dark and we have supper on the table and we have a cozy time all to ourselves. V brought up a strip of N.C. Pine with which he is going to make a book case of odd scraps and pieces which the carpenters have rejected. �24 Sunday 9th March 1902 New snow on the ground, This morn which came last night. A fine day somewhat Cloudy. We did not arise quite so early as usual being Sunday morning. After breakfast. Voltie goes over to see his grandmother and after waiting for a long time for his return to dinner we ate our dinner without him. After dinner Maud picks up dishes and clears away the table and then goes up to Mrs Niles to practice singing hymns with Shell. Towards evening Voltie packs his box and his father, again, takes him back to Hickory and we are left alone once more. Maud comes home just before dark. Shell coming nearly all the way. Evening visitors Lenardo and Bobilo (Patterson & Reid). Thawing nearly all day. �25 Monday 10 March 1902 A fine warm morning thawing. A frosty morning. After breakfast dishes washed, Maud picked over beans. I’m tired doing without butter, milk or eggs. Our neighbors on every side of us have all three. I cook the last of our beef to keep it from spoiling. Wells Sr pitching hay & straw in barn all fore noon. I cut out my wrapper. Maud made an apron. I tore off another sheet and in evening cut carpet rags. Maud reading Vagrant wife. Sr goes to to bed at 8 pm. Maud and I go at 9 p.m. forgot to say I partly wrote a letter to Mrs Grace and one to box 114 Kingston, Ont & forgot to say Maud went to Mrs Niles for sweet milk. Geo Morgan sale came off to day. Going to sell every thing and go west where Jim & Bernard are. Wall Niles is helping Alex Livingston move. �26 Tuesday 11 March 1902 The day commenced very fine but ends up very nasty with rain, dirt and mud every where. Sr goes to foot, drives down on the ice - gone to get some old bob sleigh irons, that Ed R had given Wellie before he moved to New Hampshire; only got the irons off one sleigh the wind had blown the other off on the ice. Rachel here came for M and to go to post office to mail a letter to Will and stays till Mauds return. I send a letter to Grace and one to PO Box 114, Kingston, Ont. Maud washed clothes I washed Volties shirt & all the socks and stockings and put V old pant to soak in tub. Wells goes over to see about the wood and goes to spaffs for hen feed but got none. �27 Wednesday 12 March 1902 A dirty nasty morning and rain cloudy all day but warm for March door open part of the time. Irene washed the pants, Maud made molasses cookies and after dinner I sewed on my wrapper. Maud got supper and we wash dishes and the evening passes quietly away, forgot to say Wells went over there to see about the wood and brought home some vinegar to charge his electric belt for he has a very lame back. Maud and I practice hymns on piano. Evening Maud reading as usual. Sr in kitchen smoking his pipe. I cut carpet rags. Grannie says she knows there is a letter from Will at the post office if she only could get it heard wild geese holler honk honk �28 Thursday 13th March 1902 A cloudy rainy morning, snow nearly all gone with here and there the remnant of a dirty snow bank. The wind changed this morning from South to North. There are but few people who do not get angry when assailed by the anger of others; They appear to do so from sympathy and alow the sunlight of their good nature to shine forth in all its glory which, will surely disarm your antagonist and shame will take the place of anger P.M. weather still contineus disagreeable. We bake more beans and Maud and I sew on my wrapper. Wells has gone over there to see about wood, snow falling but disapears as fast as it falls strong wind from the North. �29 Sunday 14th October 1902 A beautiful day sunlight bright and clear ground bare with a patch of snow here and there and far between. Rachel came over for tobaco and for Wells to draw a load of wood from Spaffs which he done and also cleaned out her cellar drain. She had been to mail a letter and expected one from Wills folks but got none. Inez came bringing Maud a piece of Jean Gordon’s weding cake which Shell had sent Inez, helped Maud wash dishes. I did not sleep much last and am so sleepy. I can scarcely ope my eyes. Sent a letter to Muriel and to comfort for art table cover and also sent away for hair restorative for V. I thought I’d take a nap after dinner but couldn’t sleep & got up and went to work. A very bright warm sun all day. �30 forgot to say I subscribed for Muriel the little magazine called "Comfort". Sr trying to get pitchfork out of the broken handle but rusted in so cant move it. Maud mended herself a pair of stockings. Wells and Albert Joy dont get along very well since he was hurt on the ice boat. Mail. Kingston, Herald, Comfort, Papers from Science College, a letter from Wells Junior, one from Grace and one from "[Hugh Dalton|Hugh]]" (Dalton & strange). I sent to Comfort for "Art Table Cover" - a letter to Muriel. Hair Restorer Co, Wells sent 3 letters one to J Gotham, one to Capt Denis and one to Liby Simmons which is 12 cts for postage to day. �31 Saturday 15 Marach 1902 A fine day. Wells drawing manure. Tom Chatterton came down to day from Charlies, rode down with the mail. He brought us two pails of water - and, informed us that Marjories was at Henry’s and wants to get down here she been there since the sale at Geo Morgan’s. Maud cleaned floors and had every thing shining. I made two pies and one cake and 4 loaves of bread. Wells drove to foot for Voltie, gone long time stoped on way and choped wood for R & tried all along the road to get hen feed for her but got none �32 Sunday 16th March 1902 A warm morning, mud every where. Wells went over axe in hand to chop wood. Henry drove in here bringing Marjorie. Voltie and Tom had gone to Franks so no one at home and Henry didn’t know where to put his horse for our stalls are full. "5 horses standing in the stable" so Henry said. I sent Maud to tell him to put his horse in the cow stable, which he done. Then after visiting a few minutes with us, he walked off down the shore somewhere and came back at 8 pm. The rain came pouring down and wouldn’t take off his overcoat. Voltie went to barn with him and he hitched up and he drove away through the rain in his top buggy through wind and rain. I break the sabath by cooking for Voltie cookies, pies and bread. �33 Monday 17th March 1902 A dirty windy morning. Wind S.W. Maud and Marjorie washed. Tom reading all day. Wells as usual went over to see about wood "Over there". I write a letter to Grace and in the evening we have visitors. Shell Niles, Wallace Niles, Dave Reid so we have quite a party in the parlor when we include Voltie, Tom, Chattertown, Maude and Marjorie. You understand Voltie did not go to Hickory although he arose early, by his father routing him out and he went off down the shore, valise in hand, and just after dinner he came back and reported no crossing between the foot and Hickory on account of ice have up and jamed in on shore. I gave him dinner and then V and T cleaned the sand out the bottom of Voltie’s skiff and Voltie went up to Mrs Niles and bought each (ie V & I) a lb of butter and he gave me 27 cts in change for postage. �34 Tuesday 18th March 1902 A froze up morning, wind North. Voltie arose early didnot stop to breakfast but took his hammer hand which he made yesterday and his lb of butter and Tom started to drive him to the foot but went no farther than Snub’s, for the roads are so rough and hard frozen. Maud went to post 2 letters one I sent to Grace and one to Pugsley’s for book. Bessie McDonnel came home with her and staid till mail time. The girls had a great visit with Bessie who is quite a "piano player" for never has taken any music lessons. I washed the under garments belonging to our men folks. Evening mail Whig, American woman, Flower seeds from Briggs Toronto. Marine record, account Book from Dr Pierce Buffalo. Evening visitors Dave Reid, Len Patterson, they occupied the parlor again together with Marian, Maud & Chatterton There is an organ in the parlor, and your are welcome every evening to Maggies Murphys home. May Ranous came here for mission money. I gave her 25 cts of V’s money. I did not like too, gave it in V name but I’ll pay it back again. �35 Wednesday 19th March 1902 Maud, again slept on the couch last night. I slept with Marjorie while Tom Chat sleeps in our bed room. Wells came from the stable last night just before retiring for the night and brought the joyful news that old muley has a calf. About three Oclock am the dog gave me a call to get up and let him out. I obeyed the summons and after waiting in vain for 1/2 hour for his dogship to come I went back to bed shaking with cold and left him out the rest of the night. A cold morn so cold the water froze in kitchen a fierce heavy wind blowing from the North all day. Chatteron complaining of a headache & couldn’t eat much breakfast. Too much cold wind in that glass eye of his yesterday while going up and back from Charleys but he braces up and helps Grandad draw manure all fore noon and now they have ground their axes and gone "Over there" to chop wood. Maud and Marjorie fixes �36 to chop wood. Maud and Marjorie fixes Tom’s bed up stairs and pick over beans. Maud made a sheet & sewed it up wrong. Marjorie picks over raisins for tea. Thursday 20 March 1902 The weather much warmer. Tom & Sr made saw horses to saw the wood on using cross cut saw. Grandad & Tom saved and split a big pile of wood. Maud cleaned floors PM. Mararet [sic] went visiting over to R. Wells Sr went looking for his old pig all along the road to Jr’s old place and back up to Franks where he found her and drove her home. Maud cleaned the ceiling in pantry; it looks fine. Rene made molasses cookies. After supper Maud went over to K’s to come home with Marjorie and promised to come home before dark but staid instead. Walace came down to make an evening visit. After awhile our daughters came home escorted by Leanardo & Bobilo and they stayed in kitchen all evening. �37 Friday 21 March 1902 A mild day. Tom got headache again this morning but I doctor him with various remedies and he chops more wood & splits. Sent Maud to post office with letter for Pansy seed free then sent her to Niles for buttermilk and to get a dollar changed so I could send for seeds. I sent to Park for vegetable seed. 4 cts for this day’s postage; looks like going to rain. We got a lot of work to do this spring. 3 dresses to make, house cleaning to do. Friday eve 21st March Maud & Marjorie went to Mrs Niles making an afternoon visit and staying till nearly 11 Oclock pm. There were Len & Nellie Patterson & Bob and Dave Reid and Marjorie. Wells & Tom chopping splitting and sawing wood at the door. Wall and his father went across �38 for George but he had not come. Wall brought me a letter from Jen which had been missent to the corners. Evening mail "Sltenheim Medical dispensory" a book "Black Bird Hill", "Whig", Herald & 4 medical diaries & two letters for Wells Sr. But no letter from Grace, the one bit of mail which I was looking for. I washed 8 towels and a table napkin �39 Saturday 22 March 1902 A beautiful bright warm day. The river is nearly covered with great masses of ice which is rapidly melting away beneath the fierce rays of the sun. Wells & Tom chopping & sawing wood. The wood pile is constantly growing larger every minute. Marjorie reading & making cushion. Maud cleaned all the floors, Marjorie polished the lamps. I made bread, cookies, baked beans, got the meals and washed dishes, and washed V’s under shirt & two towels and popped a pan full of corn. Wells Sr drove down to foot for Voltie. Evening visitors Shell Niles, Wall Niles, Bob Reid, Dave Reid, Len Patterson & Nellie Patterson are all in the Parlor with Voltie and Marjorie and Maud & Tom Chat. Lenard brought his fiddle. �40 Sunday 23rd March 1902 A beautiful day. I set the plants out this morning on the veranda. Voltie read "Glengary" and "Robbery under arms". I washed all the dishes. Maud & Marjorie go to church and Tom Chat (Chatterton) goes too. Bob Reid called here on his way to church and he and Voltie arranged for The girls and Tom came from church. Voltie & Thomas go over to put R’s bees out, and dinner stands waiting for them. At last came back bringing honey in a pan, we have some for dinner. Three little events of the day nothing particular to record only the most common trivial every day happenings over Wish I hadn’t got to cook cookies for Voltie and pie too ought to have done it yesterday. �41 Irene baked two pies (currant) and another pan of cookies (molasses). Evening visitors Mrs Niles & Inez, Dave Reid & Lennie Patterson. Mrs N stays till nine pm, then she and Inez go home, all our young people in the parlor. Voltie, Marjorie, Maud, Patterson, Reid, & Tom. Will Snub boils sap all day if it is Sunday. Bobolo and Leonardo have appointed their sugar party down to Rob Ranous Wednesday evening I dont believe they will have any for I dont believe they have money enough among them all to buy the sugar. Any way they didn’t leave the parlor till Voltie told them to go home for it was bed time. �42 Monday 24th March 1902 Clear and bright ground frozen Wind north. Voltie arose at 4 am, called Tom to drive to the foot with him. But grandad got the start of him and hustled down stairs, and away to the barn- mad too. Voltie not pleased with his father for so doing; but he shoulders his valise and goes out to the barn and they drive off, Voltie to be gone another week. I dont know how we are to get along with Sr and Tom. Voltie says he couldnt keep the best man in the world and Tom only working for his board at present. I have breakfast all ready on their �43 Sr return but I am sure to call Tom down stairs again before he gets back or the divil would be to pay. Well he came raising about "them d-d tramps and bums", and as "a soft answer turneth away weath" I soon quieted him. Well I felt as though I had been on a spree for a week and lay down from 10 till 1 am then arose and had dinner on the table at 12 Oclock sharp. This burning the candle at both ends is killing. Well Maud started in after dinner to finish the pantry, While I go up stairs ransacking the old papers to the tables so Maud could finish cleaning and every thing looking like bedlam when in the midst of the work and confusion �44 Shell appeared upon the scene wanting Marjorie & Maud to go with her down to Franks to see the "baby". She said she had called for Nelly P but as she couldn’t go she called for our girls - I said Margaret could go but Maud had to finish cleaning the pantry. Shell said "O let Maud go we wont be gone long" I said Maud knows her duty but I shall not refuse to let her go, not thinking she would think of going but they both went with Shella leaving everything looking like trinked. They were gone three hours but Shell didn’t see the babies, they were both cutting brush on the 75 acres and their names are Bob and Dave. Shell was disapointed �45 and I scolded for running off when she ought to been home. Well Keranhapuckame had the buisness all arranged and planned for Maud & Margaret to go with her over to Joy’s tomorrow. I vetoed that bill straight. Lennie was down to borrow "terbacker". Wells tried to start the plow but the frost not yet out the ground. A beautiful sunset but freezing. I most forgot to say "our hens has broke loose". Two new laid eggs. We saved mulleys milk to day for the first time. Wells chopped wood for R. he said she had fallen over a piece of old pail hoop and hurt her knees pretty badly. Tom & Sr gone to bed at last. No evening visitors. Tom brought in a box of dirt for dahlias. �46 Tuesday 25th March 1902 Another white frost this morning a beautiful spring day. I pare potatoes and get the breakfast going then mix the bread and set it to rise, skim milk and make porridge for calf and carry it to the barn to seethe calf. Margaret wrote a letter to her mother and then we have breakfast- Grandpa cross at the dickens, couldnt finish the soap this morning. I get the soap and cut a chunk off the cake soap with my hands all dough but he washed without it; then he found a little slop in the calf pail says he "has to leave it in the stable or it is always filled with slop" called Tom, "Ike in bark". He is always mad if there is a young �47 man or boy around. He reminds me of an old rooster; he dont want any young cocks around especialy if they are not Bamfords. Rachel came came over for steelyards going to weigh honey. Left her paper and letter for Maud to mail. I gave her three cents. I sent to Lupton for books sent a letter to Grace and all her litterature. I bake bread. I wish T Chatterton would leave the table after meals insted of leaving with both arms on the cloth gossiping and gabbing at Maud and Margy and whistling. Margarat done her own washing and chot a shirt. Maud went to post office and from there to Mrs Niles for a sailor waist pattern. May the Divil take Chatterton. I want to ask a question but must wait till �48 T goes out after dinner. I cut out a dress for Maud. Maud does the dishes. Marjorie irons clothes. Sr and Tom draw straw and manure from the cellar way and front of house and then plow. Mrs Niles began cleaning house. Sent Maud to Mrs Niles again to buy butter (one lb). Found Shell preparing to go up to Wm G Woodmans with Wal & Geo & Louise, and Bob Reid and Dave Reid, leaving Maud & Marjorie and Lennie out. Assessor here just at sundown "Marjorie feels slighted" M & M went to post office. Lennie invited them to the sugar party and is going to take them in buggy to the party. Evening mail A letter from Grace and a letter �49 from Muriel also received the little table cover from "Comfort". Maud & Marjorie went over to R’s to make a little visit for the coast is clear of young men, all gone to Wm G’s except Len and he has gone to the foot to invite to the sugar off. After awhile Tom goes too. The girls return about 1/2 past 8 pm acompanied by Tom and here is the best of it. When Dave Reid found out that M & M were going to R’s he declined the invitation to go up the island and went to R’s instead accompanied by Charlie Woodman who dresses up very fine for the occasion in his best Sunday go to meeting suit. Like any other �50 old widower he wants to flirt and court. He begins to feel like a young colt let loose in the spring time. He has forgotten how only about 6 months ago he was bawling so loud about poor pen you could hear him half way to the villiage. Marjorie has just told me that after Wall begged the honor of taking her to the villiage ball on Easter Monday eve, he asked her to be released from his promise by telling her "if she could get any one else to go with her to the ball, she had better accept for he (Wallace) may go away. He went �51 Wednesday 26th March Read the "Comfort". A hot clear day like June. Tom plowing. Wells putting a plank platform around the well. I am doing house work getting dinner and helping Maud on her dress and Maud is slower than tar in January. Marjorie and Maud are fixing for the sugar party. It’s nothing but fix and run, fix and run all the time! Marjorie "Oh Dear I’m afraid we cant go" "Charlie wont let Len have the buggy". All the same about 7 pm Lenardo drove up in Charlie’s old dog cart and the three pile in some how and away they go to Bob Ranons to the sugar party. I retire about 1/4 to nine pm. Forget to say Wells went a over there too chop wood. �52 Thursday 27th March 1902 A fine morning some what cloudy. Sr builds fire. I call Tom. Margy comes out early (after going to bed at half past one) think her grandpa is going to drive to the villiage and she is very anxious to go home. I venture to ask Sr if he is going up this morning and in a great state of excitement he says "Going up! Going up! Good G-d! Did you think I was going to start at noon without my breakfast" and I answer "Good G-d No! I dont care if you never go, only Margaret wants to go home and he said no more, but went to the barn to cool off. At breakfast he is as pleasant and "chipper" as a humming bird. The cause of his not going is this. Last night he went to Frank’s to borrow Franks buggy but Bob �53 Reid was going to go to the sugar party with it and it would be to late to get it in the morning. Well after awhile the girls set their tongues wagging about the party and I had to listen till I was sick and disgusted. Oh well I’ll skip all that details of Charlie Woodmans performance and Leonardo’s attention to Margaret and jealousy of Maud. Len went up to see if Majorie can go up tomorrow with the mail. Rachel came over with her assessment bill and and order for things. They have her taxed for a hundred acres of land and her age 45. Wells chops wood for them "over there". �54 Friday 28 March 1902 looks very much like rain but after dinner Marjy packs her valise and Maud helps her carry it to Mr Woodmans. Len & Maud "dont speak as they pass by". These days Maud has asked Len for her old ring; After Marjorie was done Maud began to tell me about Shell hugging & kissing the Reid boys till I command her to "shut up"! under penalty of not going to another folderal in a year. Guess I’ll move out. Maud goes for the mail Whig first & second part Herald & a college science letter. No other letters. Wells went to Frank’s for buggy. He is going up tomorrow rain or shine. I think it is about �55 time for we are nearly all out of eatables no pork beans, butter or anything else. Wells goes over and chops and backs wood for them "over there". I get every thing ready for early start tomorrow morning. Dave Reid going up with Sr. I sewed on Mauds dress. Wells Sr not very well nor has he been for a long time but he never will give up but slaves right through every thing. He will come to a halt some day. �56 Saturday 29 March 1902 Didn’t sleep much last night but lay with one eye open, didn’t want to sleep after 4 am, arose at that hour sharp; it is raining but I get breakfast and Sr goes to the barn to feed & harness old Nell and just as I’m taking up the breakfast for Sr, a rap at the door and in walks [Dave Reid|D Reid]] who also eats his breakfast here. Sr has a very bad cough & cold and Reid is coughing and I gave them honey, at last they start off in the rain. Sr with 3 or 4 over coats on D with one and an umbrella. I call Tom he is sick & eats no breakfast & goes back to bed and sleep all fore noon a very disagreeable rain nasty day �57 Thomas gets up to dinner eats hearty does a few chores and goes for Voltie. Maud washes & cleans floors. I finnish Mauds dress which is very pretty. Rachel came over for turnips says she is all out of everything eatable; no pork or meat of any kind, no potatoes, no beans but has honey, flour, butter, eggs. I gave her a mess of potatoes and a basket full of turnips and some bread. Said she would kill a hen only mother wont let her. said she "dissent" cause mother would cry". Oh Oh the foolishness and crazyness of it all. Voltie came home first and it is nearly 9 O’clock pm before Sr comes. We had been looking for him a long time and Voltie had hung the lantern on the gate post for it is Egyptian darkness outside 20 times we go to the door and look out �58 at last he came with bags and bundles and boxes and I have a good hot supper all ready for him and we all have a cozy pleasant time. I dont think he is very well but he got some medicine to day, but he has got it mixed up with to much whiskey. I offered him my dollar Voltie gave me to buy pork which he took, and put another dollar with it and bought it all in pork at 11 cts per lb. Voltie brought home a fish which he caught in net that he had taken down last week - a pike. He caught 4 one for himself one for old Marshal and one for Ed Marshal. �59 Easter Sunday 30th March 1902 Did not rise very early this morning. I was the first out and dressed. Voltie next and he built the fire. next Sr then Maud, and last Tomas. Windy day North not very cold. Voltie pottering around the shop broke the sabath several times. Quite a fine day for Easter Sunday I cooked 7 eggs all we had. Maud went to afternoon service. Preacher took up a collection for contingent fund. Voltie dont go back to night. I made him a pie and bread and cake and after all are abed I mended 4 pairs of stockings for Voltie on Sunday evening. Black cow has a new black calf �60 Monday 11 Oclock 30 March 1902 Arose a few minutes before 5 am. called Voltie out of bed. I hustle to get his breakfast that he can get on the road towards the foot. Voltie bustles around and helps Tom gets out this time befor Sr and we all ate breakfast together and away T & V goes driving ol Jess. Grandpa mad because Tom didn’t tie old Jess tail up. Call him inkinbark, behind his back though mind you, not to his face. After breakfast I wash the dishes Maud washes the kitchen ceiling with hot water. I sew an old apron folded several times on the brush of the old broom (sewed it with twine & sale needle) and Maud mound on a chair with this weapon and a pail of hot water ’cleans the ceiling all right for �61 white washing. I cook beans and bake molasses cookies and have dinner on the table at eleven: Gave tom soda & water & away he goes to the field to plow. By dinner time Maud has white washing nearly done in kitchen. Sr says Tom eats too much meat & too many biscuits. Sr went "over there" to chop wood. Found them eating breakfast. After dinner Tom helps white wash the kitchen the second time. I am sleepy. Mankind likes to see the home and every thing very clean, bright, tidy but our kitchen shelves and windows are a curriosity shop. In cleaning up, this is what is represented. First window. One plug of tobaco, 2 old pipes, and old heel plate, one file, a box of foot ease, a rasp 2 screws, 6 large nails, 8 shingle nails, a pair of spectacles and case, and an old harness buckle and piece of an old leather strap �62 The shelf back of the kitchen stove represents - two pairs of wool mittens, two pair of old buck skin mittens, three kinds of almands, the conservative platform speech of Mr JP Whiting K.C. M.P.P., more nails, straps, bolts, whet stones, knife sharpener, a box of matches, an old case for a morchaum pipe, the wood box has been spit in till it stinks worse than a skunk, and the old spittoon was turned out doors reeking with poisonous filth. Are men neat animals? How can they be when they are a set of smoking, tobacco, chewing, spitting, swearing, - Oh Lord is it sinful these filthy habits and stubs of burnt matches, tobacco ashes &c &c. I partly write to Muriel & mix up the spoons. �63 April 1st Tuesday 1902 March has marched out and April has steped in. Not a pleasant day either; cloudy chilly, a little snow a little rain and at intervals it neither rains or snows. Tom finished plowing towards the road and now after dinner is plowing behind the hogpen. I finished Muriels letter and send them all (Jens, Muriels, Mauds) to the post office by Maud. Sr gone "Over there" to chop wood. Sr says he knew it would rain this morning when last night he heard Tom sing and whistle so loud. Says Tom dont clean the horses legs clean enough, and dont clean their manes, and dont clean out the corners of the horse stable. Maud cleaned (finished) the kitchen looks fine. Friday eve mail Whig, Marine Record, Parks Floral guide, Womans home Monthly, Templin’s seed Book, 5 sample copies of Vickery’s Fireside Visitor and Templin’s pansy seed & Parks vegetable seeds, a letter from Grace a letter from "Hugh" �64 Wednesday 2nd April 1902 A wet chilly morning, Rained all night, tub running over and rains this morning with occasional flurries of snow. Maud washes clothes. I get the breakfast, take care of the milk, wash breakfast dishes, cook beans, look over the flower and vegetable seeds, and write in the diary. Wells Sr has a very bad cough, rotten auld cough: and he had better begin doctor for it now. He says tom is a fool - dont know as much as Charley Gloyd; throws the wood in the wood box end ways; Never had any bringing up &c. Tom has gone some where- Woodman’s I guess. Sr said tom could have found work enough if he �65 looked for it; hog pen to clean out and beans to thresh and clean up. Tom comes back from visiting the Woodmans just after dinner. Grandpa angry when he saw Tom coming. "Kenbarks, d-d fool shure to come back to his meals-if he had staid home we would have cleaned out the cellar". Sr fixing (or making) a grindstone frame this a.m. one he picked up out the mud & straw, "Over there" when he was banking the house last fall says if R knew it she’d raise H-l though he gave it to Will and all the hangings a long time ago. So much profanity is demoralizing to the bearers it sinks into the soul. They are now going to clean out the cellar and then throw coal ashes around the well. R in trouble again. This time it is poor Len Patterson. She came over yesterday saying she had turned �66 him out. He went there with Bob Reid. Len asked to buy honey & she wouldnt neither sell or give him a taste or smell of honey. She said he "got mad and talked very vulgar. She called very hard names said it was the old Patterson nigger that was in him & said Margy & Maud ought to feel very proud to have the honor of being driven to the party by a nigger coachman. R went over to Bob Reids barn and related her most eloquent speach [sic] which she had made over here against Len & Bob of course, in turn related it all to Leonardo yesterday in Samy’s barn in presence of Tom. The boys making game of her all the time te he and laughing. I dont feel very well & go to bed early. �67 Thursday 3rd of April 1902 No rain this morning. Wind North ground fozen. Tom plowing. Wells went "Over there" to chop wood. Found R mad; she received a letter from Jen. Last night or one of the children stating that Aunt "Mary Anne" is coming out there to stay an indefinite period of time, which Rachel says is all a sham a fraud, so they have an excuse for not coming for Grandmother and R says she has taken care of her just as long as she is going to and furthermore says she is going to write them the nastiest letter they ever got and Wells says I shall not keep her said he always cared for his own father and mother and thinks John & Will should do the same and I dont know what to do about it. She get nearly all their living carried from �68 nearly all their living carried from here now; flour, kerosine - well I’ll not begin to innumerate or specify each article the list is two long. We cook beans again. Maud irons the clothes. I sow flower seeds, Japanese Morning glories, Verbinas, astors, Pansys. R went to Samy’s for a bag of oats came from there, here. had an egg in her hand and two apples in her apron. The egg she had picked up in the barn yard but at first pretended she had brought it from home to buy a yeast cake with. The apples Aunt Ruth had sent to grandmother. She blowed around awhile about Jen & old Mary Anne said she had just mailed a letter to Will giving him to plainly understand she is not going to endure this thing any longer. I gave her beans, cake, �69 and yeast cake and flour. Evening Tom goes up to Sam’s and stays till bedtime. April 4th Friday 1902. Forgot to say Sr went Sams barn for the bag of oats and bagged them over on his back to Rachels. 4th warmer this morning. Wind south. Birds singing in the grove and orchard. Maud went to Samy’s to borrow envelopes. They had ony two which they want to use. I sent her to Rachel though surely could get them there for she writes to Wills folks all the time but she didn’t have one. I never could get any thing there. After Mauds gallop around the country for envelopes, I find 2 fine ones here at home and note paper. No place like home after all. Tom plowed this fore noon and then turned the old team into the stable and helped Sr dig post holes till dinner. �70 Friday 4 send to Park for Flower seeds. time which we had at 1/2 past 11 am. I ask Tom "what will I get for dinner and he replies "Any old thing will do for me this is Friday dont yer know!! I make a big pan full of nice biscuits and he filled his anatomy with them (and syrup) if any old thing would do. After dinner he dresses up and goes to Woodmans and rides up with the mail- going to the dance at the villiage dont yer know. In vain we look and watch for Voltie. Maud beginning to fear he may not come at all. I try to reasure her of the certainty of his coming. At last Sr goes out to the stable and hitches up old Bess ready to start for Voltie when behold �71 we saw him coming away down by Frank’s gate. I hurry around and get supper and after a lot of fixing and fussing they get started at last, driving old Nell hitched to the dog cart and so ends the day. Wells went for the mail Whig, a letter from Mr Watson to Maud & a lot of pictures he sent her - daubs, Herald, a letter from Grace and a lot of trash from Vickery’s Fire Side Visitor. �72 Saturday 5 April 1902 A hard working day for me. Didn’t mop floors, but am very tired when night comes. Tom came just as I had dishes washed ready to drop down into a chair a few minutes to rest my weary old self, but had to get an extra meal for him, but didnt feel like clearing away the dishes but Tom scrabbled them up some Wells waited up a long time for Voltie and Maud & at last went to bed. They came about 1/2 past nine having stoped at Charlies. Maud cold and tired. I started to carry the lantern to the barn for Voltie but met him coming for it, and after he came in, he & Maud had to eat and at last we get settled and come to roost. �73 Sunday 6 April 1902 We dont arise very early this morning and I dont feel much like work but weary and troubled with a kidney trouble pretty bad, but dont tell any one. but I work around all day. I am obliged too. I make pie and cake for Voltie and he has two loves [sic] of bread. V varnished his skiff and put her in the water going to row to Hickory to night. The weather looks like a bad storm dark clouds all around the horizon. V starts just at sunset & after we have had our supper Tom going with him to the river to help him put the skiff in the water. Len came down just stuck his head in and went too. Tom came dodging back for his coat and away he runs again to the river where Len is waiting for him and they go down to Reanons’ Geo and stay till 11 pm. Forgot to say Maud goes to church wears her new dress. �74 Monday 7 April 1902 This is monday but I dont feel much like washing but manage to help get the meals. I ought to wash the old overalls but dont. In the evening Shell and Inez are here then came Bob Reid and I was much surprized to see Voltie come in and Len P close behind him. Voltie brought two big pike and my new books (Greens history of England 4 volumes) and a new level and other things which he had sent to Sears & Roebuck for. he changed his every day wearing apparel and went into the parlor where Shell, Inez, Bob & Maud were, Len and Tom were in the kitchen. Tom soon went home. �75 Tuesday 8 April 1902 A terrible day and all last night it rained. Voltie went away early in the skiff went to Hickory. I arose 10 minutes to 5 am and got breakfast for all, and Voltie started away before the wind began to rise only he had a light head wind to row against till he reached his destination but before noon the wind increased to a gale from the North and howls all day; towards night the rain begins to fall and continues all night. Rachel here for Wells to make her fence - 20 rods were fence. I gave her things no matter what. Tom goes to post office brings the mail and then goes bacak and stays out in Samy’s barn till 10 pm. Mail Whig, Good Litterature, Park Magazine & lot of advertising trash. I send again to Park for more seeds which makes the third time this spring. I sent Maud to post letter. �76 Wednesday 9 April 1902 A terrible wind blowing from the North cold, chilly, cloudy and dreary. Wells and Tom clean out the cellar with water from the well this forenoon. I got dinner at 1/2 past 11 am. We churn for the first time with the dosher 1 PM. Wells goes "over there" to chop wood. Tom plowing in the field. Maud reading. I go fast asleep in chair by the stove. I made a cream drop cakes. Tom in evening reading last days of Pompei till after all are in bed. At last I hear him carefully going up stairs softly closing he chamber door after himself. �77 Thursday 10 April 1902 Arose at 1/2 past 4 and hustled around as if I was sent for. Sr is gone to Kingston went up on the boat. It is her first trip to this dock this Spring. I called Tom out & Maud. I send Grace’s Valise and a little piece of butter. I dont know how she will like it for it has not been worked over. Tom drove to the dock with Sr then came back milked the cows, fed the calves, brought two pails of water and is now plowing. Maud is taking up the dining room carpet after she went down and got some juniper for me. As I am writing this, R comes for tobaco and tells a great story of privation and want. Her cow not coming in, hens lays and egg a day, no bread, no flour, no meat, no butter, no "terbackle", no beans. She has got No ’pertaters’, no milk, no buttermilk �78 3 big cards of honey, some vinegar some horse radish. I gave her buttermilk, tobbaco, butter, 6 potatoes from our few, all the cold meat, and all the cold potatoes (a dish full) said she had a few turnips which she carried from here last Tuesday and Grandmother is crying because she had no tobaco and &c. I am going to send Maud over there with some flour this afternoon. says Wills folks dont write any more and she dont understand why. I think "the why" is on account of her impertinent letter she sent a week or more ago. Tom not doing much to day only loafing around- going to take an easy time now the �79 "bass" is gone. Along towards night he begins to hustle to get ready for the dock. It seems an interminable length of time before the come-pitch dark and I send Maud out with the lantern. Soon Sr comes hugging in a great box of groceries which he deposits on the table. Said he called at Rachels and left them a plug of tobaco 10 cts. I told him "they would want some thing more than terbacker to chow" He said he did not care a dam. Well I said ’Come along to your super’ so he and Tom ’sat’. He said Bob Reid and Dick Irvine are madboth of them, mad as the devil. I asked, What for? He �80 said because George Border had come from the west and brought a nose on his face bigger than either one of theirs. After supper he smokes and tells yarns. Maud & I wash dishes. Tom sits up reading till I drive him off to bed. Forgot to say Maud took up the dining room carpet and mopped the floors all through. �81 Friday 11 April 1902 A very fine day, warm, steam & vapor arising from the plowed ground. Sr says tom didn’t do two hours work yesterday and didnt tie up the surley cow’s calf last night and it sucked the cow dry. Wells & Tom are building fence up "forninst’ Uncle Sam’s. Mary Woodman has just gone past, drove down- I dont know whether to Rachels or Alvira’s. I sent a letter to Park, one to Wells Jr. Maud sent a letter to her father. Wells sent one to Pelo for irons of some kind which was sent down from Borbits and left in Kingston. Junior and Tom building wire fence. I made a bed and sowed lettuce set out geraniums & a rose bush & washed some cloths. �82 Thursday 2nd April 1902 ginger, mustard, 1 yeast cake, 6 bars comfort soap, 1 bottle vanilla, 1 cake chocolate, pens, needles, 2 darning needles, whiting, 1 gal floor paint, 6 lbs oat meal, 1 pt turpentine, 1 bottle sprain cure, Almonds, rivets, washers, whiffle tongues, tobaco, soda, grass seeds, clover seed, pea seed, beet seed, turnip seed, beans seed, three varieties horse shoeing, horse keeping, boat fare, paid a horse keeping debt 15 cts, 1 box note paper �83 Sunday 13th April 1902 Monday 14th April 1902 �84 Monday 14th April �85 Tuesday 15 April 1902 �86 Wednesday 16 April 1902 �87 Thursday 17th April 1902 This morning looked very much like rain and did rain a little. Arose at 4 Oclock, so sleepy could scarcely stand but had to to get them started on the road to Kingston. Clouds cleared away at 10 am. The sun shines clear all day. Dinner ready by eleven Oclock, call tom after dinner, put up a lunch for Grandmother who is "over there" all alone all day, and send it over by Tom, sent bread, butter, fried potatoes, chicken pot pie, with gravy, cake, crackers & cheese. Worked hard all pm and so tired can scarcely walk but skimmed milk, wash pans, boil potatoes, make custard & cake, set table and have every thing �88 on the table when they come bringing groceries, flower pot with geranium in bloom, varnish and wall paper, cloth, pocket purse & corsetts, ribbons, candy. Wells says he is going away 15 days- going with Captain Griffin on the Mom Eagle. �89 Friday 18 April 1902 Set a turkey to day or a hen on turkey eggs 10 eggs. �90 Saturday 19 April 1902 �91 Sunday 20 April 1902 Rained in morning but cleared up. Maud goes to church. The minister comes home with her to dinner. The Rev Mr Wheatley. We have a big roasted fish for dinner, a pike which Voltie had kept on ice for the occasion. So we called it the preachers fish. Voltie caught & brought it up from Hickory last Wednesday evening. After his Rev is gone I churn so Voltie can have butter for himself on Hickory. Tom went over the river in V’s skiff - went over to Quinn Beadles visiting. John Niles his hired man here in the eve. Maud went to Mr Niles and staid till 1/2 past 9 pm. V went after dinner to chop wood for R. Tom sits up till 10 pm writing to, I dont know. �92 Monday 21 April 1902 A cloudy, chilly morning sprinkles of rain on door stops and ground. Maud took up the small sitting room carpet and then began washing. I washed dishes and got dinner. Tom working in field. Wish the onion seed was sowed. hope I’ll get our flower seeds tomorrow evening. I wash all the under clothes and put Chatterton’s old black shirt to soak in a tub of water. Tom again sits up till after bed time to write a letter to Marjorie. cold and Windy all day rains quite hard towards eve. Tom set rain barrel �93 Tuesday 22 April 1902 A fine morning warmer Wind S. I write and send a letter to Kate Knapp. I dont send the letter Tom wrote to Marjorie. I am afraid to let Maud mail the letter for there is row enough going on now at Charlie’s over so insignificant a person, even as poor tom for Charlie is afraid tom is after his girls and if Charley should get the mail and the letter should fall into Charlie’s hands he never would rest contented till he knew the contents of the letter and who it was from and then there would be another row in the family for Charley is quite sure attention to his daughters is an injury and a damage to them therefore I have retained the letter. �94 till I see Bell when I will put in her hands. I ought to have written to Belle inclosing the letter to her and I will do so at once though I will not get an oppertunity of sending it till Friday. I finish washing - wash toms old shirt & socks, shirts for V, & Sr, a pair of pants for V. Maud after supper goes early to the post office. tom carries brush for the bed he sowed at noon. Tom sowed onion, radish, parsnip, beets seed an a space of ground about 8 feet long and two feet wide soed them nearly all in one hole. No seeds come from Park yet. We get the Whig & another bundle of old "Vickery Fire side Visitor" (the Fire side Visitor is most to frequent these days" & Wmans farm journal, Shell & Inez & Bob Reid here. �95 Len didnt come. Had to drive Tom off to bed again. sat up read read and then have to call him every morning. Tom and M dont very well agree. Maud met with a serious though laughable accident just after her return from the post office which is not tellable here. �96 Wednesday 23rd April 1902 Looks like a fine warm morning. Wind S. thought Id go over to Rachels but clouded up and began to rain so concluded to stay home it soon cleared up thought once more I’d go "over there" but while I am preparing to go the wind began to rise and continues to gather force till at last it is a howling gale of wind from the SW and cold as March and I stay home and work all day at your house work. Maud washed her blue skirt and three petticoats and done a big ironing and so the day passes on till evening. No visitors to night. Tommy �97 sits up reading till after we all go to bed. Thought I wouldnt drive him off this time. Soon after I go to bed I hear him tramping around in the pantry I suppose he is after canadian herb pills for he takes them on the sly every oppertunity. Sylvia and Sammy came for Charlies gobbler. Maud went to help them drive him home but he wont drive but started for Franks. �98 Thursday 24 April 1902 Some what milder than yesterday but cold yet. Wind SW. I made the discovery of tomasses night prowling. He snoops into the cupboard and ate all the pie & all the cheese and two big pieces of cake and then took pills as he has done several times before. He eats like a hog at table and then stuffs himself by stealth and he is very cold too. He wears wool under shirt and drawers heavy over shirt, a sweater, and �99 two overcoats and a pair of mittens while working in the field. all this time Rachel was here to day wants buttermilk, linnament, butter, and wants her fence fixed right off. Says Shell Niles is the silliest fool- dont know anything says Shell calls Old Mary Farr "Aunt Mary". Mr Niles, last Thursday gave Rachel a bag of potatoes took her to the dock and back home again. Went to Richardsons as security for her for seed oats and yet to R he is old John Niles and his family are fools. She says Shell is silly -dont know any thing says he calls old Mary Farr Aunt and �100 told her father, coming over on the waggon that she had churned that afternoon, though I cant see what there is silly or flat about churning or speaking about it. If it is I am silly and flat nearly every other day. Well tommy has left us because he couldnt cudgel the poor old mares all he wanted to. Sr heard the blows away down by the river, where he ws building fence, and came where tom was pulverizing and took the cudgels away from him, all broken and twisted and told tom to put the horses in the stable and go hoe strawberry vines but instead of doing so he came to the house and changed his apparel and has cleared out some where. I saw him go off up the road walking as fast as if he was kicked behind. Maud and I get supper, wash the dishes, do all the chores and go to bed. So good night. �101 Friday 25 April 1902 Arise at 6 am. No tom here to call out of bed this morning. Sr working in field all day with horses, cloudy & chilly in pm. I sow all the sweet pear and begin to get supper when Maud comes back from Mrs Niles where she has been to carry some popy seed and exchange gladiola bulbs. Mrs Niles sent me a bowl of sourkraut which Mrs Maloney had sent some over today to Mrs Niles and I cooked it for supper. Maud went for the mail. Whig, Herald, a package of flower seed from Park, and a whole floral out fit, a letter from Grace, and a letter from Mr Watson. Charlie said he gave the letter I sent Belle directly into her own hands which is well and very kind of Charley and a favor which I appreciate. �102 26 April Saturday 1902 Wind South not very cool but rained quite hard in the night. After breakfast I hoe a few strawberry plants wouldnt stay out to hoe any more for the ground is damp and I have on slippers. It soon begins to Thunder and rain begins to pour at intervals, the wind rising to a gale shifting to the west and growing colder. Whew how the wind howls. Poor Bob and George & Wallace. I hope they are safe in harbor to day. Tis a terrible to be a sailor and Sr is going away next 8 day of May. I made cake and currant pie for Voltie but he will not come home to night. I heard tom is at Morgans �103 We set a turkey yesterday on 15 eggs and this pm Sr said the turkey is off her nest. Sunday 27 April 1902 Voltie came home at 10 am popped in unexpectedly; he walked up from foot having left his boat in Will Gillespies boat house. T Chot came in with V. Grandpa just came in from "Over there" where he has been as usual to chop wood. He and Tommy dont speak. I dont feel very well. I go to sleep while writing and make long black marks on the page. Maud went up to help Shell sweep the Church before service and after dinner, and the dishes are washed, goes to church. Tom after shaving and fixing himself up very fine, plastering his hair down to make it lay smooth and twisting and turning around to see how he looks behind, goes to church to get a ride up with Mr Wheatley our preacher. �104 Voltie made himself a carpenter apron (having worn out the old one). Bob Reid here all evening. I go to bed and leave them all sitting there laughing & te he ing at last I tell Maud to pare the potatoes and go to bed which she does and soon all is quiet and I sleep till morning. Monday morning 27th April 1902 When I got up 1/2 past 4 & get breakfast and make cakes for V. & pack in his valise with two loaves of bread, pie, butter, cakes, potatoes, &c and he starts out with the valise swung over his back on an axe handle that Sr had made for Bill McFaden intending to walk to the foot; but his father heads him off out near the barn and tells him to mount into the dog cart and he will drive him to the foot. Sr had been out to the stable and hitched up on the sly. �105 Well Maud is in a terrible way about starting off for subseribord [sic] for Parks Magazine, flower and vegetable seeds. I begin to think Maud was born for canvassing buisness [sic] for she has a gift or tendancy that way, always wants to get out on the road with books or newspapers or something and now it is flower seeds. I said go right along. The day is fine, do as well as you possibly can but dont let the sun go down on you before you return, and away she has gone down the island. Sr is plowing here by the house, plowing & swearing, I know he kept from swearing as long as he could, but old Jess mare dont want to plow. Maud helped churn before she started out on her mission, swept, made beds and helped wash dishes. While I was washing the churn I glanced out the window and �106 saw a tall black object coming up the road which proved to be Rachel bringing a pail and some newspapers she had borrowed & a currant bush. She wanted butter, buttermilk, kerosine and any thing else she could get. Poor old Rachel she looks like the but end of hard times and she appears to be just what she is hard up and broken down, not a decent shoe to her foot or a decent garment of any kind to wear, only one old cow that is going to come in some time she chasses and runs after ducks but I think she is happy why not I wish she had all the fire wood she needs �107 27 May Tuesday 1902 Just one month ago this day since I last wrote in this book called diary and we are, thanks to God all well. Grace came home the first of May bringing Reginald, and went home again the 22nd of May. Johny came to see us the 18th of May stayed only a few hours and then went back down to Geo Gillespies to cross the river with Ed Bates. John came across with Ed and Dora in the morning. We only had 16 Plymouth rock eggs to give him. Will and Charley came over 11th May on a very fine day they could stay only a few hours. Bell & Beatrice were here the same day for a few hours and Rachel came over too. We bought a milk and cream seperator the 9 of May Listes and Spoor brought and set it up the evening of the ninth. Voltie �108 came home the same evening for which I was very glad. I gave them their supper. It was a very cold day and evening. May has been a very cold month with few exceptional day. I know we arose the next morning, the 10 of May to find everything froze up hard all vegetation as stiff as an iron bar, ice an inch & half thick on tubs and barrels froze all along the shore. The 25 & 26th of May were beautiful days, warm and sunny. The fruit trees trees are all in bloom now but the weather has changed again and it is colder, dark wind clouds from the S.W. Sr has this month built a chicken coop we have 9 small turkeys and more hatching. We are milking 4 cows. Bob Reid �109 worked for Voltie and V paid Bob a dollar and ,50 cts for strawing the potato ground and Sr has to dig down among the straw to find a hole to drop a hill for potatoes. I am trying to see how much butter I can make each week by this seperator. Evening mail brought us Whig, Marine Record, a letter from Belle, a letter from Johny, and a letter from Mauds Aunt Amanda. It is raining at night fall evening. I read a story to Maud and Wells from Barce’s monthly. Wells seperated the milk this morning and evening �110 Wednesday 28th May 1902 Maud slept with me last night. It was too cold and chilly to go up stairs. The day is cold, almost enough to snow and drizling rain all day. Wells Sr after doing the chores, plants potatoes all day in the straw. He says Voltie ought to hire one more d-d fool and then quit hiring for that would be three times and out. I churn, bake bread, cook beans, drop cakes & johny cake, sow Parks star flower seed. The cat had knocked off the box of sowed ornamental pepper seed. We gathered it up and found only two sprouted. I planted them over and sowed more seed and transplanted a few more plants. Evening read to Sr & Maud �111 Not copied yet 1901- 15 page Sept 1901 - 3-4 pgs in to 1902 1901 - between Fri 8th 1902 & Sun 9th Mar 1902 �112 This is start with Sat 9th Dates are confused but write exactly as is �113 Thursday 29th May 1902 A day of wind from S.W. Whew! how it blows. Sr planting. I get breakfast and wash all the breakfast dishes and Seperator complete, made a pie for dinner and washed a few things, ie V’s underclothing, 2 dresses for me and an apron for. I planted one big hill of Japanese Navy sent to Sears and Roebuck for a sample book of wall paper last Friday 23rd of May 1902. Suppose I have got to churn Spose I have to write to John. Sr planting all day. Potatoes, corn and "pumpkin" seed. Maud ironing churned all right. Evening read in Winner to Maud and Sr �114 Friday 30th May 1902 The weather fine again. Sun warm and bightly shining. Wind hushed and gone to sleep. Got a terrible pain in my back but have got to work all the same doctored it with R.R.R. and Van Horns linament bathed in hot water and finaly tied a big long wool stocking around my back and went to work. I wrote 4 letters this morning. Johny, Belle, Dr ConnellDentist, and Charley Woodman requesting him to take the Universal self instructor to Belle allright I made a corn meal baked pud for dinner. �115 26 June Thursday 1902 It began raining last night at 6 pm and rained all night. barrel and can full of water this morning. Got Maud out early to go to market. Wells said he would only put the bovines in the barn and milk when he returned from the dock! instead! he carried the pails to the stable, milked all the cows, seperated the milk, ate breakfast, caught the horse and I a hustling around all the time to get them started at last! they get under way only to get as far as the hill. When behold the boat was just starting out front the dock and so Sr turned about and sent Maud with the butter all the way to Marysville to go to Kingston. And Oh such a day! Wind! Ye howling huricanes and gales! blowing all day with a clear sky after 8 am �116 this has been a terrible month for wind and rain if we get one day of quiet summer like old fastioned [sic] peacefulness and bright warm sunlight, we think it a great treat but the meadows and pastures are abundant and luxurious and potatoes and most everything gives great promise of a bountiful harvest. Dear Maud I wonder how will she get over to the city and back again to day, she had 28 lbs of butter yesterday. There was a picknic on Henrys Hallidays point. Maud went with the old mare and buggy taking Ethel & Lottie Dixon with her and did not return till 9 pm evening while Rachel came over wanting for �117 them to return. The wind blew all day yesterday but not nearly so hard as to day. yesterday pm I rolled the churn out on the veranda and churned there. Maud has returned; went and came by way of Hallidays. I have not written in this diary in a long time. This is the 16th day of Aug 1902 and the last written was June 26th, 1902. Many an event has transpired since that time. I invited Watson to stay away and not make his annual visit for which he launched out into a terrible rage frenzied with anger. MaudsAunt Maude has made us a two weeks visit & gone back again to Shannonville. Little Dick Patterson was drowned. Pete Patterson came up and �118 carried Nellie home with him to Vermont. Dick was drowned the 7 of Aug 1902 through Frank Woodmans carelessness. Aug 14th Maud and Amanda went to Kingston this morning. Maud going to Market with 28 lbs butter and Amanda going home. I am expecting Mrs Brooks by this evening’s boat and we have made great preparations to receive her. Grace stays another week to help me entertain her But she didn’t come and I sincerely hope she never will. Voltie is binding oats & Sr is setting up bundles nearly all day. I churn out on veranda �119 Friday 15th 1902 A day of peaceful blessedness; no visitors. To keep breakfast hot for, while they snooze in bed till 8 pm. V binding oats, Sr setting up bundles. I churn in cellar. Evening mail Whig, Herald and a letter from Mrs Brooks excusing herself for not coming Thursday evening. Wants to come in Sept and bring Brooks, a gun & fishing tackle. What a happy event that woud be - for them. but I object as I am under no obligation to her, or Brooks, who I have never seen. I shall inform Mrs Brooks that we dont receive any more company this summer or autumn and then she will be angry like Watson. �120 Saturday 16 Aug 1902 A very good day but cool. I churned in cellar butter cool and could be made in a roll all right. Voltie finished binding and V & Sr set up all the oats in pm. In am they finished drawing the wheat and stacked it behind the barn. A shower but not long. Maud cleaned all the floor. Grace saved for Maud and helped get the meals. After seperating milk & supper Voltie drove over to Spaffords for the old black pig - returned at 9 pm. I’m so sleepy and go to bed early. Reginald helped me dig potatoes for dinner. �121 1902 Done 1906 Remains �122 Sunday 17th of Aug 1902 A cool cloudy morning. Voltie, after breakfast and seperating, gathered in the fish net in the pm a lot of dead fish and one cat fish which he threw away, together with all the dead ones. Voltie goes in buggy to Belles accompanied by Maud and carrying them a sample of his apples and potatoes. Sr brought in one cucumber from our vines this morning. There has been no rain to amount to any thing since two weeks ago this day (Sunday). 4 years later to 1906 ↓ �123 Tuesday 23rd of January 1906 This morning very warm, no snow not a flake to be seen any where, no ice in the river, wind blowing half gale from South. gulls flying in from the lake. V helped get breakfast and after breakfast went over to Daily’s to chop and saw wood. Kent coming across from his place to help V. Maud washed some things. I made or prepared mince meat. Maud and I churned. I dont think we will churn again till the cows come in or separate any more milk. Raining hard. V came home through the rain clothes wet. V went for the mail gone longer under the circumstances that I should think he would. Dignams want to buy Spaff place but Spaff wife want sign off �124 The reason V didnt return earlier the mail had not arrived. Not much mail these days. Dispatch Agneautist, Letter for Maud from Rena James and a postal from New Thought. Maud and I sent 4 letters this morning; one to Nellie Brooks, one to Comfort soap, one Maud sent for a ring and one for a pin neither one of them good for any thing. Sr plowed to day only 3 eggs to day. Wednesday 24 of January 1906 Colder this morning but very quiet, sun bright and clear, no snow nor ice yet. V after breakfast took his axe and dinner basket and away he goes over to Dailys to chop & saw wood two miles he has to walk. Kent helps him �125 while Maud & I were washing the breakfast dishes, Arthur and Marjorie came. Old Green Farr brought them across and Art gave him $2,50 on demand; after dinner Sr let Art have the bay and milk wagon to drive up to Charlies. V came home after dinner while Kent went up to Phinkess’s Mrs Niles came down and brought her Knit quilt to show me. Well I have done very little work this day but visit. We thought we heard the whistle of the ferry boat at our dock. Voltie goes over to investigate and finds the boat at the dock, a fine star lit night. Thursday 25 of January froze a little last night but the sun shining warm and clear Voltie gone up on the steam boat �126 To Kingston with a grist of hog feed. The sky is so clear there is not a cloud to be seen; not any churning to do, no separator to wash. Our new teacher going to leave; to lonesome away off down here; she is an old maid and has the "rheumatism". She thought (if she staid) here she would board at Barry’s but when she went to see about boarding there, but after seeing Mrs Berry and looking her over, she concluded she didn’t like the looks of her, and was more anxious than ever to get away. V said Mrs Barry resembles the cartoon of an old Jew woman, Sr said she looks like a Poleax. It has been a long time since I have seen her. She was not remarkably hansome then beside they watered their milk and �127 and skinned it and had to pay 70 dollars for doing so and taking them and their wrong doings alltogether, they are not very popular. Friday 26 January 1906 A beautiful day sunlight clear froze a little; a white frost ground all bare, river all open, no ice only a thin scale along the shore. Voltie gone over to Dailys to chop wood. Kent helping. I’m troubled this morning with cold feet and rheumatism and drowsiness. We are to have a new teacher a Mr. Whitmarsh from the villiage. Evening mail Herald, a book from Comfort, a letter from Grace. Look on third page �128 The powerful solvent properties of distilled water are well known. Hence to sum up:- the most rational modes of keeping physical decay or deterioration at bay and thus retarding thus retarding [sic] the approach of old age are avoiding all foods risk rid in the Earth salts using much fruit especially juicy rum cooked apples and by taking daily two or three tumblers of distilled water. Nothing causes old age and wrinkles so rapidly as lack of exercise properly balanced: that is the strain on one set of muscles being relieved by the use of others to balance. This causes exhaustion and the tired condition that follows to keep the bones full of rich fluid and healthy, must exercise daily. �129 March 4th 1902 Posted 3 letters 6 cts from our dock to Kingston with a grist of hog feed. Ruth Wolcott here for bee smoker. I patch V’s pants and cut quilt blocks for Maud Saturday 27 A beautiful day warm sun shining cleary. Wind South. but light. Margaret and Arthur came accompanied by Irene and CharlesSr, Charley goes to Niles for their boat and putting up sail they all embark for the other shore landing at Sand Bay. Charley goes up to call on Uncle Jim Gloyd and �130 found the poor old man walking or hobbling around on two crutches for support. he wants R to come over and keep home for him. Charley came back and ate dinner with us. Voltie and Kent chopping wood in Daily’s woods. Kent here to supper & carried home on his back a peck of beans. I made molasses cookies, two mince pies, baked beans and boiled a piece of beef. Irene went home with Margaret. Sunday 28 January 1906 A warm still day cloudy and looks like rain. Quarterly meeting a great turnout. Rev Cornell assisting Rev Moore House. Maud gone to church. We expected the new teacher Mr Whitmarsh but he didn’t come. Inez came down for a little visit growing a little colder. �131 Monday 29 January 1906 Froze last night quite hard, heavy frost on the windows. Thermometer down to zero. Sun clear and bright no snow, river steaming a little. Maud made doughnuts and baked beans. River lightly skinned across with thin ice. V & Sr draw a load of wood from Daily’s and then draw, after dinner, hay from stack to put in the barn. Maud baked apples. I piece on quilt and write letters. Evening passes pleasant by reading &c. The wind blowing fierceley from South. �132 Tuesday 30 January 1906 Wind blowing a gale all night from South, the water roaring and dashing on shore. morning cloudy & looks like a storm. Wind South. Dont storm but a dreary dismal day. Voltie went to Dailys woods to split wood. Sr carried for me three letters to post one for Grace, one Gladys, one Parkleys & Dingman and from the post office went over to Daily’s Woods and cut a load of wood. No snow, no rain, no ice but dreary, cloudy and dismal. Voltie came late. Said Whitmarsh came down with Kent. Dispatch, Kingston News, 3 Park’s floral magazines, New thought, a letter from W.F. Watson. Maud received a letter from Huffman �133 Wednesday 31 January 1906 Awoke this morning to find it raining a nasty day wind south. V gone to Woodmans to help them butcher, came home to dinner and after dinner chopped the heads off 16 fat chickens which we scalded and picked for market, then I put up the eggs, wrote out the order for groceries. Mr Whitmarsh our new school teacher came to board an unofensive looking young man, wearing a fur lined coat and a broken nose; his name is Fred, he appears to be quite intelligent &c. After supper Voltie drove to dock with grist came back and ate supper �134 then he and Maud prepared themselves for OBriens dance which they attended, walking there accompanied by Whitmarsh. Sr goes to bed and I proceed to sit up as long as I have a mind to which is nearly 10 pm and had and was just going to get into bed when V came back with McDonell & Kelly for cider. the trio going into cellar, drinking to their souls content and carrying away a gallon to refresh themselves at the dance. Next morning another couple came for more cider & V sold them a dollars worth. They returned from the dance at 10 minutes to 3 Oclock am. They, V, W & Maud lay down for 1 hour then we all arose and prepared every thing for market chickens, eggs &c Sr and V drove �135 to the dock expecting to find the offenders there but after waiting in barn for the appearance of the boat every neighbour returned to their home. Voltie taking his poultry in Chad Woodmans wagon with Chad’s hogs and drove to the village and from there went aboard the boat to Kingston, stay in town one hour, come home at 7 p.m. brought pickled olives and peanuts, sugar, soap, sundries. Evening practice writing by the trio spencerian method Friday 2nd Feb 1906 16 deg bellow zero this morning which is a sudden change from warm to cold; river streaming like a cauldron; if the bear sees his shadow to day twill be on bare ground. The sun shining clear. V walked axe in hand to �136 Daly’s wood to split wood. We cook beans, bake apples, make drop cakes &c Voltie came home in time for supper but was tired and didnt go for the mail. February 3rd Saturday 1906 After breakfast Voltie goes for the mail. A letter from Muriel & Herald & North Western Agriculturist. Then after doing a few chores takes his dinner basket and axe and walks over to Daily wood to split and cord stove wood; working all alone, wind blowing and begins to storm snow, river frozen clear across. Maud cleans floors, made pies (apple), polished the kitchen stove. Sr chores around. Whitmarsh reads & whistles. Nearly 4 pm I wish V would come home at last he comes, tired after splitting �137 he comes, tired after splitting rock elm all day. Sunday 4 Feb 1906 Dont get up quite so early this morning. Weather colder a miserable dreary day. Wind blowing a gale from the South East all day, cloudy. We all read most of the time, growing colder towards night and so passes the day. Only four out to church to day, no preacher, river frozen over. Monday 5th Feb 1906 Colder this morning 16 deg below zero but clear. Our men drove to Dailys for a load of wood sled length. I picked over a peck of beans. Evening V and �138 Whitmarsh goes to Obriens conclude the school business in regard to hiring the Teacher. The teacher brings home a catalog of the school library which proves to be only childrens story books including a few of Coopers & Dickens &c Tuesday 6 February 1906 A clear cold morning 18 below zero. They think the ice is good for a man to walk across to the U.S.A. At 1/2 past 10 am Voltie walked across to Quinn’s drawing the kerosine can on hand sled, returned at half past 4 pm with kerosine, oil, a coat for Sr, tobaco, a pair of shirts for himself and a lb of coffee. The teacher brought us a book from the library "The last of the Mocachins by Cooper. V ate dinner with Horace Dodge �139 Wednesday 7 February 1906 A clear cold day. Voltie & Sr hitched up after V ate a lunch and drove over to R’s intending to drive back on her place for a load for R, but instead Sr choped up some old fallen apple tree limbs enough to last a day or more, and Voltie walked over to Daily’s woods where he remained all day splitting and cording wood. he returned at night fall tired and hungry. Evening time after tea Maud & Whitmarsh go to call on neighbor Niles family but finding the door locked and no one at home, they soon return and Voltie helps me wash dishes & we read, pare potatoes for breakfast [illegible] for bread. �140 Thursday 8th February 1906 Not quite so cold this morning and though the sun is shining the atmosphere is misty. V took his dinner and axe again this morning and gone away to Daily’s woods. Maud is washing and I, club in hand am trying to get dinner and make a batch of cookies but is terrible hard work my left hip and leg is very painful every step I walk and I’m afraid I’ll never be any better of it. Whitmarsh has gone to his school. I suppose he met with a great disapointment last night when he looked in the commode and couldn’t find his "pot". I wonder if he thinks we are going to empty thundermugs after him? when he hired his board here that was not included in the bargain. continued on 4th page from this one. �141 Tuesday 25 Feb 1902 Voltie went to City brought home 5 lbs sugar 1 qt whiskey, poor stuff 1 pk onions beautiful red 1 box of note paper 1 doz fish - herring 11 lbs fat pork and gave me three for shortning 2 cans of syrup, gave me one 1 lb soda & 5 lbs rolled oats 6 bars of comfort soap 1 Bottle of black ink Voltie bought none paper and envelops 4 volumes Greens History of England �142 Friday 27 of Feb 1902 Wells went to Kingston & bought cheese & a load of lumber 2 lbs figs Irene 6 lemons Irene 5 lbs rice 1 pins Irene Radway’s R.R. a peck of beans a coal shaker 10 cts with 10 comfort trade marks Tuesday 4th March - 6 gallons Kerosine Wednesday 5th - 2 gallons of syrup 6 towels 6 lbs currants 1 box sodas 1/2 bush beans 1 broom 30 cts 6 March Thursday another cady of tea 29 lbs from George H Darling, Landsdowne March 9th 2 bags of potatoes fromJ Niles. �143 March 29th Wells Sr bought 18 1/2 lbs pork - Irene paid for half 10 sugar 1 lb ginger 1 lb soda 1 box yeast cakes 1 yd of elastic 1/2 bush beans - V paid for half 3 lb whiting 5 lb rolled oats 1 box soda biscuits 2 lb cheese April 9th 2 bags of potatoes from Niles April 10th 12 lbs rolled oats 20 lbs sugar �144 Thursday 17 April 1902 pork $1,00 2 lbs cheese 5 lbs currants 3 lbs lard 47 cts 5 rolls wall paper & 12 yd bordering 1 box Iron tonic pills 25 1 pair corsetts 50 1 yd black ribon 12 candy 10 Flower geranium 20 Purse 20 Puff comb 15 2 1/4 yds muslin .30 1 letter .02 �145 continued 8 Feb 1906 2 jew beddlars [sic] and Louis Larrish and Jerry Hunt came wanting to stay all night but dont keep any such gentleman, two great louts Hunt & Larish been to Cape Vincent to a ball on an ice boat, got left here by a lull in wind. They carried a load of strong drink aboard their anatomy which spoke for itself Friday 9th February 1906 14 above zero this morning. cloudy looks like storm of some kind. sent Nelly a post card. Grace a letter. Maud sent to comfort for a ring. I sent Wells Jr two papers "Agriculturist & �146 the jews staid to Sam’s. Wells sold them old iron which came to $1,15, he gave the money to me. Dont know where Hunt & Larrish went & dont care. Voltie gone again this morning for chop, split and cord. Sr drawing wood sled length. Voltie came a little earlier than usual. Geo Rattray & his father & Kent went over river drawing our sled. Kent & Geo gone for oil. Mail a letter from Grace, one from Gladys, Herald, a magazine called Madam. I sent Grace a letter. Maud sent one to Rena James and Toronto for a ring. Saturday 10 February 1906 Arose early that Whitmarsh can go up with Jack Niles. He goes. We bake and cook all forenoon. A very good pleasant day �147 towards night Bob came down with Jack Niles. We sat up late, visited and read. Sunday 11th February 1906 A pleasant day. Mr Rattray called here on his way from over the river; he been to Rob Percy’s visiting. He staid till church time. The preacher here to dinner the Rev Moorehouse a fine man. Whitmarsh returned. Frank Woodman came too. Voltie engaged a passage for Rachel across the river with Frank. Frank drove across from the U.S.A. in buggy and drove back in buggy. R met Frank down by Frank’s old place and went across with him in buggy. Voltie down on ice watching �148 then while they go over the ice is cracked badly. Well I’m glad R is safely over the river. She has not been here in over a month. She went home one evening after she had come over to stay all night pretending she was mad at Maud when Maud had not given her any cause for the smallest offense no not any cause whatever. Well I dont care! She is only punishing herself. Monday 12 February 1906 A fine day. Voltie & Bob walks over the ice to Gloyds to pay Rachel for her old candy cupboard, that she has sold the school section for a school library and "also to pay the tax on Lindys for land & school tax. They return in time for dinner. Whitmarsh does not make a start for school very early he had better be careful. �149 or OBrien and Barry will be watching. After dinner Voltie and I dress 17 chickens for market. Robert weighs each one as soon as it is picked. Evening V, R, & Whitmarsh go to OBriens to play cards & have an evening visit. They return at 10 pm and go immediately to bed. Maud mixed the bread before retiring. Maud slept with me. Tuesdday 18 February 1906 The most beautiful day of all the winter, like a spring day in April. We arise early and tie the chickens necks and get everything ready for market. I send 8 1/2 doz eggs which V sold for 20cts per doz at Hendersons �150 Robert goes home too. I am sorry to see him go. Robert is a good boy. Wells Sr hitches up and drives over for Rachels canned tomatoes and puts them in our cellar to keep them from freezing 9 or less. V comes home quite early, ate dinner with Bob & Grace. V went for the mail but not much, two little books from soap factory and Dispatch etc Wednesday February 14 1906 The weather this morning is changed from Spring to February winter snowing and blowing. Whitmarsh buttoned close his fur lined coat and turned up the collar and away to the school house he went. V at home tinkering in the shop all day. Sr sitting by the stove nearly all reading Dispatch and now they are out milking and doing the chores and the storm is �151 raging and blowing heavy from the North. Thursday 15 Feb 1906 A light snow on ground this morning; a clear day. Voltie at home tinkering in shop and pm partly shoveled the saw dust out of ice house. Wells Sr again complained of shortness of breath. Irene fixes Sr coat sleeves and pieces on quilt & makes too punkin pies, washes dishes etc. Maud works around the house makes beds & sweeps. Samy & Ruth here for Voltie to help bush out a road across the ice. Voltie helped the Woodmans over, but bushed no road. Jack Niles here in pm wanting V to go to Geo Niles to play. V wouldnt go but staid home and read the [?] in Shelly. �152 Friday 16 February 1906 A beautiful day. 8 deg above zero in early morning. Whitmarsh in kitchen whistling something I dont know what it is. There is no time to it only a noise; He is an incessant whistler. I wish he would stop his noise for that blow mouth of his is anoying. V cleaned ice am and pm cut 30 cakes of ice finished reading the Cenci in Shelly. Grandad sat around the stove most of the time jawing and reading the almanac. He dont like Whitmarsh’s bugle call. I sort beans and wash dishes &c. Frank H drove over again on wheels; he going to fiddle for the dance at St Lawrence to night Chad Woodman going to the dance sent a letter to Muriel. Evening mail, Herald, a letter for Maud from Irene and a ring �153 Saturday 17 February 1906 A warm cloudy morning 20 deg above zero, Wind South & looks like rain. Whitmarsh up dressed and whistling. Grandad up dressed in the kitchen swearing very low about that "d-d whistling fool" Whitmarsh puts himself inside his fur lined over coat and goes down on the ice where V & Jack Niles are getting out to fill the ice house and awaits his oppertunity to catch a ride with some one enroute for the villiage and soon hops on Will Gillespie’s conveyance and goes off up to the villiage. Jack N here to dinner. Maud makes doughnuts and I fry. They got the ice all in before dinner. 30 big cake �154 We read till bed time. Voltie reading Shelley. A beautiful star lit night. Alice Rooseveldt married to Tony Easter Sunday 18 day of Feb 1906 A warm cloudy morning looks A like snow or rain. Sr drives over to see Dordane. Quinn Beadles hired man comes over visiting; big burley Milton Woodard here to dinner and brags about himself. He has now gone to church he went before Maud did. Sr has just returned and says Dordane will not live long and that Horace has had another shock. Snows some I write a long letter to Grace. Monday 19 February 1906 A cloudy warm morning snowed some in the night. Wells goes across the ice comes home at 5 pm says Dordane died at 2 this pm. Eddy Bates here and drank cider in the cellar. V �155 gave him 2 bottles of catchup tomatoes. Evening Inez came there The Dignums, Mary, Tom, Lance D & Sadie Murray they stay till midnight. Warm and thawing Voltie shod the brown horse. Tuesday 20 February 1906 A warm cloudy morning, we arose early. Sr gone to Kingston. I send a letter to Grace. Maud sends one to Irene. Voltie helping Niles fill ice house. Teacher gone to school. Maud & I alone. Maud cleans floors. Voltie came home at noon to do the chores. Two men drove in here to inquire the way across the ice to U.S.A. Maud dont feel very well. I cook beans and pare potatoes. Sr came early couldnt get a dentist to fix his teeth. Belle & Charley went to town, drove ahead of Sr, saw Bob and gave him the letter. �156 Wednesday 21st February 1906 Awoke this morning to find the rain falling, ground bare. V and his father started to walk across to Dordane’s funeral. Sr with creepers on. V had to turn back and get his skates for he couldn’t stand up so much sand and water. Maud & I here alone piecing quilts. Maud gets us a lunch a good cup of coffee etc. V came in time for his dinner. Sr came later and had had his dinner at Vans. The weather clears up a little after dinner. Thursday 22nd Feb 1906 A beautiful day; sun brilliantly warm 30 deg above zero, ground bare of snow. It froze a little last night. Voltie takes hand sled and skates across to River view for Kerosine 6 gallons after dinner. Maud goes �157 skating Eddy Bates comes across on skates and Dora too. Eddie here drinking cider evening time. VoltieMaud & Whitmarsh walk over to Dignams for an evening visit came home at 2 pm ice roaring and cracking all night. Friday 23 February 1906 froze again last night, a white frost. day clear and frosty. We pick the last of our chickens to day 10.30 am the chicks are picked ready for market. Mrs & Mr Daily have been here. Daily gave Voltie money to pay in the bank at Kingston and left a barrel for V to fix. They going to make maple sugar. Voltie gave her a drink of cider. Sr thinks the rats will not trouble or destroy. �158 Dec 4th 1902 Voltie 6 lbs up to date while Whitmarsh is here for he is more noisy than a gobbler or a guinea fowl. George Obrien gone to River View on skates this morn. Volta goes to OBriens to inquire if he is going to drive the North shore tomorrow; if he is Voltie wants to accompany him for our side (South) has proved unsound for driving on ice, and out there is strength in numbers they, with Geo Rattray will try the expedition together. The verdict is, if there is hard freezing, they will drive up on ice if not they take the road on wheels. Old man in a pucker about Whitmarsh; noise & wants to know if F.W. is going to send up for new records. I’m quite sure Sr’s old records will never be worn out while he lives Ie for fault finding. Oh I wish he would go visiting for week somewhere. �159 Saturday Feb 24th 1906 Arose at 5 am. Maud & Voltie got breakfast. I tied the chickens necks poor things, running around yesterday small and plump with. all their feathers on, and now bare and in the market basket with their yellow legs sticking up, well tis the last Voltie has going, drove away up the Island on wheels. Barometer 60 deg above zero in the shade, sun pouring down its fiery brilliancy on the ice, ground bare, crows holding council meeting in the cedars. Whitmarsh exchanged a cap for a hat and accompanied by the dog and two cats has leisurely sauntered off down the shore & grandad Sr has gone to roost sunning himself on the �160 [Various additions and entries mostly illegible] �161 �162 �This document would not be possible without the editorial contributions of the following people: Ann Hopkinson, Ella Deering, Jonathan Panuelos, Eric Irvine, MaryV, and Queen’s University Archives � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Collection Subject The topic of the resource 19th and 20th Century Rural Ontario Diaries Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Courtesy of Queen's University Archives Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1887-1922 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Frontenac County, Wolfe Island, Ontario Table Of Contents A list of subunits of the resource. Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1887 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1888-1889 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1889-1897 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1890 March - June Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1893-1895 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1895-1899 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1896 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1897-1898 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1898 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1899 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1899-1900 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1900 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1902, 1906 parts of Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1902-1909 parts of Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1904-1905 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1907 & 1918 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1908-1919 parts of Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1911 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1913 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1913-1914 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1915-1916 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1916-1917 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1917-1918 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1918 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1921-1922 Language A language of the resource English Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1902, 1906 parts of Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Courtesy of Queen's University Archives Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1902, 1906 parts of Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 20th Century, Frontenac County, Wolfe Island, Ontario Date Created Date of creation of the resource. February 24th, 1902 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Collection Medium The material or physical carrier of the resource. Typed Transcription UG Transcription Progress Scripto transcription progress Done transcribed https://ruraldiaries.lib.uoguelph.ca/transcribe/files/original/efaf25da14325e4fe7d0c9f5f1064fba.pdf 7f4b3055f300b9b419d4cd77261a08be PDF Text Text Irene Dixon Bamford 1900 March to May, Diary Transcription 5034_4-1-12 �Metadata FromThePage export of 5034_4-1-12 from Irene Dixon Bamford made on 2026-02-11 15:39:52 UTC. Title: 5034_4-1-12 Created On: 2024-01-11 17:16:18 UTC In Scope: true Uploaded Filename: 5034_4-1-12 �1 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary March - April - May 1900 1900 Queen’s University Archives Locator 5034.4 Box 1 File 12 �2 [on the side] Bess read [/on the side] March . April . May 1900 �3 �4 Hurrah For Old New England Date 1900 R 900 This is our own, our native home though poor & rough the be The home of of many a noble soul The birthplace of the free We’ll love her rocks and rivers Till death our quick blood chills. Hurrah For old new England And her cloud cappt granite hills Cho Hurrah for old new England and her cloud cappt granite hills, Hurrah for old New England and her cloud cappt granite hills Shall not the land Th’o poor she be That gave a Webster birth With pride step forth and take her place With the mightiest of the Earth Then for his sake whose lofty fame our fartherest boundaries fills We’ll shout for old New England and her cloud cappet grante hills Chorus They Fell us of our freezing chine our hard and rugged soft which hardly half repay us for Our spring time care and toil yet [strikethrough] merry [/strikethrough] gaily sings the merry boy. As his homestead farm the tills Hurrah for old New England and her cloud cappt granite hills. Chorus Over �5 Others may seek the western chime They say tis passing fair. That suny are its laughing skies and soft its balmy air We’ll linger round our child hoods home Till age our warm blood chills Till we die in old New England and sleep beneath her hills Chorus Hurrah for old new England and her cloud cappet granite hills, Hurrah for Old New England and her cloud capped granite hills. . shoes running shoes fixing, 50 25 V sent 5 dollars Arthurs coat 1,25 shirt 50 40 stockings 25 cap Elastic, 10 braces 10 ————– $2,60 Paint 3 qrt cans at, 85 cts $ 0,95 5 Wall paper ,25 2 curtains. 70 24 yds bordering 48 calsomine 20 ——$5,18 ,50 Fare for Maud & Grace �6 Come Over The moonlit Sea Oh come o’er the moonlit sea The waves are brightly glowing The winds have sunk to rest And the tide is gently flowing My bark is on the bay and it only waits for me Its silken sails will throw Their shadows over the sea All is still save The echoing song or the distant boatman rowing Though bright may beam the moon Moonlit waves are more en-dearmy [sic] (second time) tide is gently flwoing. My bark is on the Bay And it only waits for me Its silken sails will thro their shadows oer the sea �7 We sold 4 doz eggs to Keys before V went sailing? Thursday 26 April 1900 8 lbs butter at ,16 cents per pound $1,28 2 1/2 doz eggs 2 98 _ ,28 Thursday 3nd May 6 lbs butter -16 ,96 3 dozen eggs 11 ,33 Thursday 10 May 8 lbs butter at 18 cts per lb $1,44 Thursday 17 May 7 lbs butter 18 cts $1,26 Thursday 31st May ,, 18 lbs at 18 cts #3,24 Thursday 14th Junes 21 lbs at 19 cts 3,99 cheese money 15 June $2,40 " " 30th June $4,48 " " 15th July $4,16 " " 31st " $4,23 " " 13 Aug $3,00 [crossed-out] butt [/crossed-out] ,, [crossed-out] 20 [/crossed-out] cheese money $2,00 butter money 12 lbs at 25 per lb $3,00 �8 Thursday 26 April -00 5 sugar 20 8 1 soda cow brand 5 2 sunlight Soap 10 Whiting 5 pepper 5 Black thread 5 paid freight an bags 52 & boat fare 25 7 for lunch 5 for car fare 1,28 pens 3 c. butter. 1.28 96 1,44 pootaqe 2 c eggs 28 ——— 1.56 1,26 carter 5c = total $1.49 3,24 7. balance 3 99 —– $12,17 butter Thursday 2nd May 00 $11 04 onions —— 23,21 25 lbs Flour �9 [sideways] 3 [music notes] [music notes] [music notes] 8 [music notes] [music notes] [music notes] 7 �10 May 2nd 00 25 lbs Flour 50 " " Onion setts 20 Paid 11 cts for Grace lost letter at the Soo May 10 5 sugar .25 yest ,5 Oatmeal ,10 currant ,25 two pairs stocking ’25 Elastic 1,0 Note paper 10 Soap 1.0 bananas 1.5 Candies 10 ——six cents to Arthur $1,45 6 —$1,51 Sold old iron to the amount of 6,00 dollars half of which wellie took for his share Grace brought home to me $1,15 cts and I have a two dollar order and V sent $5.00 order �11 Half lb tea 13 5 brown sugar 20 5 rice 25 2 lbs granulated sug 10 2 bars soap 10 [crossed-out] 10 [/crossed-out] 6 lemons 10 bottle extract 10 5 pak garden seeds 25 —12 3 5 letter 10 — $1,33 Thursday 31st May 00 25 lbs Flour ,50 brown sugar 20 granulated 25 Sodas biscuits 25 oranges 6 lemons 6 23 soap 10 summer savory seed ,05 1/4 lb ved 13 baking soda 05 —1,76 28 May paid Niles 60 cts for potatoes " " Mrs Niles 20 " " butter —,80 paid �12 [music notes] seethee sun how we love to see thee when the day is done 1 How we love to golden evening 2 be it ours thus brightly virtue’s course to run ours to sleep oo sweetly all our labor done 3 Thus we wish in childhood. While we gaze or theo, wish our heavenly pathway like thine own may bee [music notes] crochet hook and cotton .13 Arthur shirt cloth .15 Overall cloth ,23 Note paper 05 for me Slippers me an old things cant wear them ,50 2 spools Thread 10 street car fare and bananas 08 postage on letter 02 potatoe, from Niles 30 paid Arthur 03 —– 1,49 1 76 —3,25 �13 24 May two boat fares ,50 Grand stand ,10 tee cream ,30 —,90 brought home $1,08 — $1,98 Thursday 14th June flour ,50 5 sugar ,25 yeast cakes ,05 note paper .10 oat meal .10 soap .10 coffee 20 tea 13 paid Jen: ,10 matches 13 —1,66 by Will Dixon from the Cape box sodas .20 " " " cakes ,12 Thursday 21st June cheese ,25 baking powder ,15 5 sugar granulated 30 sent to Park for flower seed ,25 �14 Thursday 25 June -00 Sent to Kingston by Grace my $10 dollar order for things for we Could’nt get the chees check that day wash Tub & board ,95 10 lbs granulated sugar ,50 1/2 tea ,15 25 lbs flour 50 nutmegs ,03 ginger 05 soap 10 corn meal ,15 potatoes ,25 twine 05 —freight on potatoes 5 cts 2,73 05 — 2,78 �15 for maud 6 yds dress cloth at 14 ... ,84 5 yds cotton at 8 cts... ,40 corsets ... ,50 1 1/2 ribbon ... ,18 buckle ... ,25 paper pins ... 03 spool white thread ... 06 boat fare ... 25 — for dress yoke ... 07 —[crossed-out] 2 45 [/crossed-out] fixing Arthurs shoe ... 25 —2,83 for groceries ... 2,78 paying for order ... 03 express Order for Loranto ... 2,75 postage ... 04 — $8,43 18 July borrowed $2,00 of Voltie for sugar and fruit cans 10,00 8 43 — 1,57 �16 Bought with cheese money Thursday July 5 1900 sugar granulated white. $1 one dollar oat meal. ,10 cts Brown sugar 25 mailing two latters ,04 Boat far ,25 one Straw hat ,15 Potatoes 25 — 2,04 $1,63 Thursday 12 July 1900 cakes and a loaf of bread 10 25 lbs Flour ,55 Starch ,04 soap ,10 yeast cakes ,05 oat meal ,10 note paper ,10 Boat fare 25 mailing 2 letter ,04 3 lbs [crossed-out] lakon [/crossed-out] bacon ,30 — [crossed-out] 1,53 [/crossed out] [written sideways] ,13 cents due Voltie [/written sideways] �17 Bought butter of Mrs Niles Volties Two lbs at 25 cts per lb ,50 money another lb butter Volties ,25 Thursday July 19th 1900 paid thompson ,90 25 lbs Flour ,50 1/2 cloth lemons ,13 sugar 1,50 soda biscuits ,16 2 lbs cheese 25 3 " bacon 30 2 lard 20 toilet soap 10 1 lamp chimny 08 rolled oats 10 table cloth 88 towels 15 fruit cans 80 Boat fare 25 — stocking 6,30 13 stockings — mail one letter 6,43 2 letter — one bar soap 6,45 5 soap — tea 15 6,50 15 tea — �18 6,65 4 15 3 29 — ,87 Thursday 2nd August 1900 Syrup ,15 Flour ,55 Soda ,05 4 1/2 porpk at 10 per lb ,45 1/2 tea ,15 2 lard .20 rolled oats ,10 2 bunches onions ,10 Soda biscuits 16 lemons 13 soap 10 white thread ,05 arthur 1,50 envelopes ,05 ,16 —- pens ,05 0 ink 05 1,66 Mauds purse 10 Maud cash 25 1/2 doz pans ,60 — 3,29 �19 Aug 9th 3 bars soap 15 1 box yeast 5 1 lb tea 30 5 brown sug 25 box cornstarch ,10 1/2 doz lemons 13 bough 25 lb flour & lost it, grocer covered half 28 1 lb cheese. 13 Volties money for groceries —$1,39 28th Aug 25 lbs flour ,55 __ 3 lbs lard ,30 5 brown sug ,25 " granulated ,30 4 heads cabbage ,10 baking powder ,10 corn beef ,50 onions ,10 tea ,15 letter paper ,05 market basket ,15 soap ,15 — $2,70 balan on picture ,32 cents — $3,02 $1,39 303 — $5,41 ,4 mail 2 letters going to V on groceries $5,00 [on the left side] 10 10 50 30 5 15 — 1,20 [/on the left side] ��20 [on the top left] 4 55 4 23 — 32 16 35 —5c [/on the top left] [on the top right] 150 120 — 2,70 ,16 cts [/on the top right] [main part] V’s money bought 2 lbs muton— 1 bottle Fowlers Extract wild strawbey ,35 Lent Wellie $3,00 dollars which was afterwards turned on threshing for Voltie excepting ,50 Paid Dr Buchanan $3,50 Volties money paid for John’s pitchers 4,55 Thirty two cents of this money belongs to Volty Mauds glasses V’s money $2,50 Thursday 20th Sept -1900 mustard seed ,05 teakettle cover ,10 chillies ,05 cauliflower ,05 onions ,08 corks ,08 tumeric ,05 skirt pattern ,05 4 gallon crock ,55 — my cheese money $2 dollars $1,08 mailing two letters ,04 — $1,12 �[sideways] 5 soap ,10 10 sugar ,60 baking soda 05 fruit cans 47 Allspice 05 — mustard 1,32 — $1,72 owing Thompson $1,42 M Roches tonic $1,00 [/sideways] �21 Voltie ssent $5.00 lost found " " " $13,50 cts [strikethrough] lost [/strikethrough] found " " $12.00 " " 15.75 9 " " $16,00 " " $21,84 " " $21,50 5.59 $7,00 $23.00 $10.00 $17 00 $14 00 $10 00 — 18 6,09 186.59 �22 Paid out Volties money sent home 39 35 23 39 10 35 25 17 25 — — — —4 14 40 35 paid Wells Jr $5 dollars. Two of this was cow money for Arthur 3,50 $14 00 milk can 1,40 2 50 Mauds glasses — 11,50 balance Phillips for bells and hoes 2,57 Mrs Jimy for Turkeys 1,50 [indecipherable] just marked out the mistake June 00 Thursday 28 Paid Geo Seas[sic] on acct $15 dollars. cow money " " Vincent Ockley & sous [sic] on acct $5 dollars cow money Thursday July 5th Paid to McCrossie $15,75 on note July 12 finished paying McRossie, & took note Aug 2nd Arthurs boots $1,50 shirt cloth ,16 Aug 50 dollars to Kirk Patrick & Rog Rashbun company $1,64 For threshing $2,50 cider barrel $1,50 paid Rube $5,25 paid Mills $10,00 [written sideways] 101,01 105,59 101,01 —4,58 3 00 — $ 1,58 I cant account for [/written sidways] [written sideways] 3 3 50 1,40 3,00 1,40 2,57 — �6,97 3,50 — 10,47 1 50 — 11,07 3 — 12.00 3 Wells 3,.50 arthur 1.40 milk can 2,57 Phillips 1,50 Turkeys 15,75 McRossie 1,66 Arthur 52,84 at home 13,50 lost 1,69 Galloher 1 50 McRae 2 10 boller to Mcrossie [/sideways] �23 Wednesday Monday 28th February 1900 The weather looks very favorable for a storm Wells Sr drives To Kingston in cutter accompanied by Dordane who goes as far as Bells To visit for The day. Wells Jr drives To Kingston with sleigh- gone To mill. Voltie with axe in hand walks away across The ice to Dodges woods to chop wood carrying his dinner. The snow begins falling about Ten O’clock and continues Thicker and faster ’Till The we cannot see The other shore Will Charley and George Piller runs acrosss with the ice boat for Voltie and come home just before dark. Wells & Dane arrive in a little while after Saying "Wells has gone home long before them and also bring The news That Robert and grace are at Henry Halliday’s Wells Sr brings sugar cheese soda biscuits buckwheat flour &e The night sets in stormy and dark �24 [on the side] [[Wells|Wells Sr]] says nothing like this storm since old Joy died 80 years ago Dont suppose Will has much wood. [/on the side] Thursday 1 March 1900 The stormiest day of all The winter Snowing and blowing from the N.E. Bob and Grace at Henry Halliday’s; been there. since Tuesday. Not much wood in wood box and Too story to stand out and saw wood to day. Maud is polishing lamp chimneys. Wells reading Whig, Voltie reading Thelma. Dordana rocking. Arthur twisting a string around The back of a chair. Whew! how the wind blows and snow flies- cant see the barn and scarcely see the l wood pile. P.M: storm increases To a gale — a blizzard snow in great pyramids and drifts every where Voltie has great difficulty in wading Through the drifted snow to the river for water. and has to work his way into the pasture and around by the back gate. Our west door snows up and East door froze up and piled with snow inside the Kitchen. �25 Friday 2nd March 1900 This morning the wind hushed and gone To rest but the snow still continues falling and snows at intervals nearby all day The great heaps and drifts of snow are tremendious. Last night Dordane doctored her eyes with potato poultice and they are not much better; her eyes are so red and sore They are just awful- am afraid she will soon be blind Irene washed a few Things Maud cleaned floors. Rene made four pies baked beans The men only done the chores. Voltie shoveled away the snow that the cattle and horses could go to the river to drink. Wells Sr nearly lost his temper over The coal scuttle because he has to fill it. Poor old man! Will Ges Pillar & Charley here This evening with the violin which Will plays accompanied by Voltie on The piano while the young fry play old maid with cards Arthur while playing cards whistles, sings drums with his fingers on the table, nods, shakes and tosses his head from side to side, grins and twists his face into all sorts of grimaces- showing off - I told him to stop but he would’nt I’d like to slap his face. �26 Saturday 3rd March 1900 A brilliant sun shining upon The dazzling whiteness of snow. Wind S. W. not cold Will and Geo Pillar walked to J Niles to get passage for George to Kingston carrying Geo’s luggage between Them and in a short time after came lugging it back again and both got stuck in snow and fell down. Several Teams out breaking roads, horses falling down and floundering in the snow. Wellie’s, Morgan’s, Joy’s, Rube’s Woodmans teams all out After going home. Will came back & walked across to River View on snow shoes for groceries Irene does more washing Maud cleaned floor’s Towards night Wellie drove up for his aunt Dane Cloudy in the West; two sun dogs I very tired. Maud & Arthur wash dishes. Valtie finishes Thelma. I eat a lunch, and retire to sleep the sleep of peace and conTenTment Good Night �27 Saturday 4 March 1900 Awoke this morning To find the sky over cast and snow falling thick and fast. Wind S.W. and not very cold Wind changed To North & then south Except Bob and Grace home to day if the roads are passable. Mr Spofford Joy and Geo Rattray drove across the river and while coming from the church to the river both horses fell down in the snow and Geo & Spaff shoveled them out. Voltie reading Oceans Storry No mail for any of this family not even a news paper- Whig or Herald. and W S has only the "horse doctor" book to read after dinner I slept and dazed in The rocking Chair Ought to write to Nelly more than Two weeks since received a letter from her. Began writing to Nelly. Don’t know when I’ll finish. No Visitors to day only our own solitary family �28 Monday 5th March 1900. A very good winter day. but cold on hands and feet Maude makes all beds sweeps and afternoon commences washing. I cook and wash dishes. when To the door drives Henry bringing Bob Grace Marjorie & Berry Gibson. Shell & Inez came earlier. After stopping awhile. Henry home again taking Bessio and Marjorie with him. Shell wouldnt wait and go up with Henry but preffered walking up with Inez a circle around The sun which indicates a storm I go to bed at nine Oclock and sleep the sleep of the just Voltie and Bob sit up later reading �29 Tuesday 6 cook until thick Best water [sic] while cooking �30 cucumber pickle eo c cc [strikethrough] Wednesday 7 [/strikethrough] slice 2 quart cucumber 2 " onions 2 " green tomatoes 1 large cauliflower put together in with Brien[sic] & stand over night cook up in Brien & drain in colander take 3 quart uinged cup flour 1/2 poud mustard too cups sugar 2 teaspoon turmic use a little v inegar to mix then stir together with real wincer[sic] �31 Sunday April 15 1900 A very fine day Voltie discovers the Niles driving home and goes up there and soon returns with his package of new blue clothes his watching uniform which upon opening the parcel he is disapointed to find no buttons and the button holes are set to far back and concludes to take them back to the taylor fix over Then V goes up to James O’brien to Team if he will pasture our young calves or 2 year olds- Could’nt- and goes from there to George Morgans and neither can he pasture our young cattle so V proceeds to George Morgan Senior’s where he partakes of an Easter Supper of ham & eggs and bottle ale cake ted & e & e I wait up for him [upside down at the bottom] Friday 9 [/upside down] �32 Saturday morning 14 April 1900 Awake this morning to find Wells Junior gone from home I am sorry but he had to go April 1900 Good Friday 13th Arose this morning before 4 am Got breakfast for Wells Voltie and Harry Card Wells and Voltie load in the trunk and they drove away through the misty morning around the churchcorner they go Well its is not like going to South Aftrica �33 [strikethrough] Saturday [/strikethrough] Monday 16 April 1900 Voltie plows the garden covers the well north plank & opens the cellar way works around all day till Towards night then bob Reid brings his mare here and they drive to the village with V’s buggy and harness V taking his navy blue suit back to Howland for the button holes are made in the wrong place V & R. R. going to the Easter Monday Ball at the village Wallace went and took Shell with him to the Ball Wellie plowed here to day �34 Tuesday 17 April 1900 Arthur built the fire. Wellie plowed with gang plow which does good work. No more sap trees stopped running. I finish writing to Johny and mail the letter Then write for Shelly Maud goes to Niles’ to exchange white thread for black Shella came down gave her the said letter, Maud and shell go to the post office only the Whig. beginning to rain paitiently looking and watching out the window for Voltie to come down with Rube and Mary a dark rainy evening. All the house hold retire but myself and I am thinking of going when in walks Voltie encumbered with a basket of groceries two hoes a roll of wall paper for Eveline and others sundries like two or three pair of shoes and &e Ten lb sugar and a pound of tea a paper to tomato & a paper of cabbage seed a letter for Maud 2 for Grace 1 for me Bob writes for V to come and immediately so he is going to start for Buffolo imosront[sic] �35 Wednesday 18 April 1900 A clear morning after the rain of last night. Voltie after picking up and packing his trunk has gone to Kingston to board the train for Buffalo tomorrow Wellie drove to the ferry with Voltie Wallace came down to see Voltie off. A long time Voltie will be gone if we all live. Arthur made a wheel barrow to wheel away the dirt from the cellar way done all the chores and put the colt in the barn. We dont expect Wellie home Till Tomorrow morning It rains thunders & lights and foggy No cold. Wind South grass starting green Arthur built the fire This morning Expect Spafford’s sugar party will be a failure though Spafford drove over for Shelly �36 Thursday 19 April 1900 Arthur built the fire this morning Wind South and chilly river full of ice floating down stream a steamer o some kind this morning working her way up through the ice Wellie came up this morning. Said he returned last night at 10 Oclock p.m. and that Voltie staid at the village last night They called at Belle’s a few minutes Maud Washed Grace finished Mauds "pints" and made Arthur a shirt and Maude a dress Irene sowed tomato seed three Kinds Lester drove in here again inviting to a sugar party & said not one but. Shell there last night. I go fast asleep while writing in my diary. Arthur works like a tow head. Grace sets a hen on 13 eggs a big steamer goes up this afternoon, black one from Ogdensburg Maude made a clothes pin bag all night rained a little this morning Junior building a fence Arthur went to Wellies for the garden rake to make a cabbage bed. we lett Arthur go to Joy’s sugar party and back at 20 before 2 a.m. over a hundred there. �37 Friday 20 April 1900 A fine day scarcly any wind Wellie plowing in the field Grace sewing Maude moped floors Will and Charlie running nets off the high rocks. George McDonel drove in here with a box of eggs for Cappt Rothwell Wants to get them "sat on." Wish he had kept them home The grass is growing green Received a letter from Notty from Kingston about Those eggs Whig and Herlad Grace goes to Evelines after dinner and stays till after dark & I go to Wills after tea A sugar party at Burnham Well goes ther to fiddle Saturday 21 April 00 Jen goes to J N to stay all night. Gomy[sic] to K tomorrow & so out home Ecpect the minister tomorrow to dinner we accordingly make a currant pie and a chocolate cake Grace mops the floor Maude sweeps and dusts all the rooms Looks like rain �38 Sunday 22nd April 00 A lowery morning rains some but and much Very warm Maud goes to church His Reverence and daughter came to dinner A quarrel on the church porch bettween R Reid and Wm Robinson and in afternoon a fight bettween the two villians down in Franks pasture The seconds were Charley Wooddman for Reid and Perley Burnham for Robinson. Result Reid got a black eye and Robinson a bloody nose Shell made us a call. A drowsy day. Monday 23nd Apr 00 A foggy morning warm but a fair day Mr & Mrs Spafford Joy had to dinner & stay nearly all p.m. they were very good to bring us a two quarts of maple syrup Spafford took homee a quantity of raspberry bushes (Marlborough) Shell made us an evening Call W took up the dining room carpet and Maud went to school Maud pulled the Tacks out the carpet in Graces rooms looks like rain again this evening 20 past nine pm going to bed �39 Tuesday 24 April 00 Wind North rather cool a fine growing time. I sent a letter to Voltie Grace sent one to Robert Wellie ate dinner with us and cultivated our garden this morning. Will here for rosin to make grafting wax Grace straightened out the three rooms over the parlor. I dont think we will get our house cleaning done before the last of May. A sugar party at Horns this evening Will & Charley going. Will going to fiddle Arthur learning to cultivate A letter from Voltie from Chicago one from Robert The Whig and free man Grace cleaned Three rooms up stairs her own room and two smaller rooms �40 Wednesday 25 April 00 A fine day Wind North Wellie and Arthur working in field all day Grace finished cleaning chamber Maud at school Will came over for apple sprouts to grafts. Irene churned and made 8 prints for market. and made soft soap for cleaning house rooms by boiling hard wood ashes on the store thereby extracting the lye from the ashes the soap is of an excelent quality Irene baked bread and prepared all the meals Mr Niles & Shell came down in the evening but Grace had gone to bed. Irene put up the butter after dark. �41 Thursday 26 April 00 A fine day Wind West and cool Arose this morning at half past 4. and made Grace a cup of tea and some toast Arthur goes with Grace to carry the butter Grace gets a ride from the corners with Mr Geo Gillespie. Eveline goes to Town to day I did not sleep any last night so took a nap to day Dear little Maud cleaned the floors I took a thorough bath. Grace walked all the way from the dock this evening Will here for more grafts Arthur droped potatoes for Wellie this a m and in p m. hitched Jess to the stonebod and drew two bags of potatoes from Mr Niles’ Grace saw Belle in town to day with butter one market Bell bought two flowers a coleus and hyderangia �42 Friday 27th April -00 Wind North cool W(?) like the warmth of the Kitchen range to day No open doors. Arthur cultivating by the church shed Wellie here preparing to sow grain Arose little after fire a m worked without ceasing. Slept well last night. Maude home from school to day I washed towels and white washed the ceiling in the Kitchen the Artist brought Gladys picture to day and I consider it a very fine work of art I took the frame that was on it at two dollars and I am now [strikethrough] owng [/strikethrough] oweing him $2,75 cts Arthur gone to Rattray’s for hog feed Maud gone for the mail and neither are back yet Arthur came with a bag of feed a night Maud came with mail a letter from Voltie one from his father and two advertising envelopes one for wire fence one for paints, Whig & Herald with notice that they sent the last paper this mail if subscription not renewed Arthur and G cut a bag of potatoes ready for planting �43 Saturday 28 April 00 A fine day. A warm rain would be very benificial Will gave me some fish Dear old Will good brother, Wellie working here to day Arthur helped Wellie in the field all a on After dinner and I had cleaned all the fish I and Arthur planted 12 long rows of potatoes Grace moped floors and Maud swept dusted and arranged all the rooms Arthur was afraid he would not get time to do the chores properly blustered around & said he didnt know which chore to first begin. and finished all chores before sundown and went wills for beeswax found Jen at home she came home with John Niles Sunday 29 April. A fine cool day we hustle around for we are expecting Eveline & the children pu for dinner but we watched in pain and I went to bed Grace and Maud get dinner and call me up: after dinner dishes washed I go back to bed and am sleeping soundly when grace agains me Saying Eveline is coming so up I got again [strikethrough] and [/strikethrough] am glad to see them and they stay to tea and we [strikethrough] hang a [/strikethrough] jolly visit only Welly Joos[sic] home and takes Hubert with them. Welly & Hubert come up again along the shore and after staying a while they all go home again, wacking down the shore �44 Monday 29th April 00 A clear day weather hazy; wind south I half sick but have to work all the same arise get breakfast skim milk wash pans and strain milk and set it away away as usual After breakfast I cover 4 long rows of potatoes Tired out so rest a while. hard work cleaning house this spring. George William came and visited a while about the South African war and Roman Catholicism and has now gone to J Niles’ Arthur works for Wellie cultivating Grace and Maud [strikethrough] white wash [/strikethrough] clean woodwork and paint kitchen Wind North and cool Wind West in pm and blowing a harricane Jen Woodmans clothes flapping in wind all afternoon �45 Tuesday 1st May 00 Cool morning no rain and a warm rain would be a grand thing for the Earth Though farmers are hoping the rain will stay away till after they get all their seed grain sowed, by the appearance of the weather at present they need not worry Just wrote to Voltie and his father Arthur cultivating for Wellie again to day Well we are taking things quite easy to day so far I know we ought to wash and do lots of other different Kinds of work but I cant understand why it is we have to be always hurrying and hustling through This life Never since I can [strikethrough] remend [/strikethrough] remember have I ever seen one day of entire freedom from worry and care of work If I sit down for a few minutes I am always thinking I ought to be doing something else cleaning cellar patching washing darning cleaning door yard hoeing in garden pulling weeds and every thing else perplexing and then in my mind I go traveling over to John’s thinking he is whaling away at work and Flora the same Then away I speed on fancys wings to Belles wondering what she Charley and the youngones may be doing but I know she takes life more quietly with a spice of humour mixed with it �46 be but I know she takes f life more quietly with a spice of humour mixed with it Wednesday 2nd May 00 This is 19 hundred and no year, so, the century begins next January. The day is warm close and hazy Grace and Maud wash dishes and do up the mornings work I rip up a lot of old garments for patches and carpet rags After dinner Maud and Muriel go for flowers in Gillespie’s woods. I churn and make 6 prints for market. Grace is going to Kingston Tomorrow to stay a week. Wellie, to day sold the old iron to Spaff for $6,00 six dollars and gave us three dollars Arthur gathered enough old rubber to come to 30 cts Arthur cultivating at Wellies I ripped up Graces dress skirt going to have it altered After supper Grace went to Evelines a little while and Maud and arthur went down to accompany her home. Wellie came after dark to clean seeds oats at the grainery. Will called after dark on his way home from Niles’ where he has been grafting and house painting Charley and Ethel came after dark for butter print Muriel came up to help Hubert carry the boiler home. Eveline going to wash �47 Thursday 3rd May 00 A dreary dismal day wind North and verey cool, cloudy. looks like rain. Strong wind Grace gone to Kingston this morning to stay a week with Mrs Gaskin. Eveline gone To Kingston this morning c selling calves at $5.00 per head Grace carried To market six lbs butter and Three dozen eggs. Arthur cultivating for Junior. Lots of work to be done. which shall I do first? A great washing To be done but to heavy work to bring water from the river. Dining room to be cleaned, and two bed rooms down stairs, parlor curtains to be washed, pantry to be cleaned, & cellar to be cleaned, Kitchen floor to be painted, & another coat of paint on Kitchen wall. all our garden to be made. whenever we get one piece of work done I will draw a line over the top of each I am glad Eveline can go to Kingston on the Boats It will benefit her health �48 Friday May 4th -00 A cold, raw, chilly day. with snow squalls. Every man which I have This day seen wears an overcoat buttoned close. Wellie sowing grain in feild wearing and overcoat I washed some things; towels, curtains, napkins, aprons and many other things besides. but have only began cant get water. Wellie came for oats: a man came to buy calves skin; we had none. Dick Spoor came To measure the well; going to bring a pump next Thursday. He said the ground in Kingston around Fort Henry was This morning white with snow I heard to day That uncle William Smith has passed over to the other Shore, He will meet all his brothers and sisters gone before him and his father and mother. Only my mother and aunt Hannah now left and note: (84 according to birthday of 1815 on their monument) mother eighty three years old the 18th of last December I heard to day that Mrs Alec Doctuer is not expected to live: had a stroke of appoplexy followed by a parilytic shock, yesterday, going up on the pierpont to Kingston. and is now in the Hotel Dieu. Arthur cultivating for Wellie [written sideways at the top] Will Dignams came very near running over Muriel and killing her only for Will [/written sideways] [at the top] Dixon he would have done so but Will snached her from [/at the top] [sideways right side] under his horses feet where she had stumbled and fallen [/sideways right side] [written sideways at the top] Alvira Burnham working all afternoon at Harolds grave —A postal for Grace addressed to Mrs Rev Gaskin saying there is a letter in that address �at Sault Ste Marie and if she will send a two cent stamp it will be forwarded to her I send a letter to Voltie [/sideways at the top] �49 Saturday 5th of May 00 A cold, windy, snow squaly day. Arthur cultivating for Wellie Maud hung the clothes on the line and brought them in as soon as they are dry. Terrible weather for May Sun shining clear in afternoon squalls working around the westward wind blwoing strong and steady This is the day old Jess jerked me off the back door step on to the stones hurl both my hands and brused. my knees and broke my spectacles but broke no bones. Coldest May day I ever saw and dry no rain Arthur comes home to suppper. We set a hen on 14 eggs alone all day Till evening Jen and Will & Charley came over dark �50 Sunday 6th May -00 Another cold dry day with high wind West. I sent a letter for Rev Mr Weeve to Sault Ste Marie Nich for Grace’s unstamped letter. Organized a Sabath School to day in our church Maud attended service. Annie Horn called here on her way to church for their towel which had been left in Grace’s market basket. �51 symptoms Monday 7 May 1900 - cold day cold enough to freeze I worked around all fore noon after dinner painted the second coat on the kitchen wall Wellie working in field getting ready to sow grain Tuesday 8 May 1900 A very fine warm day done washing Wellie putting in grain here all day. Two letters from our absent ones Wells Sr and Voltie. The clothes on the line look white and clean awake in the night to hear the North wind blowing a harricane and expect they will be all mud in the morning Mrs Niles and Shell and Inez here this evening a letter from Wells Sr and one From Voltie �52 Wednesday 9 May 00 Churned and made butter for market 8 lbs washed carpet rags and dried them on the bushes. very cold and windy had to bring in the clothes from the line and wash some of them over again for the wind had blown them down to the ground so washed and hung them all out again Thursday 10 May 00 Arose early this morning and sent Arthur to the deck with butter He drove Jess and the dog cart R went too going to cook for Whitneys Till after the 24 of May. Maud ironed and cleaned floors Muriel & Hubert called on their way home from school for the white wash brush Then Muriel came up again and brought me some milk pans 3 only all they could spare Grace came home to night from Kingston cold as the chickens Wind North �53 Friday 11 May 00 Weather somewhat warm wind South bright sunlight Wellie finished sowing grain here to day. furrowed out the potatoes land to plant Maude & Grace not very well Rotherwells chicks hatching wish Voltie never had allowed them to have been brought here. Arthur cutting potatoes in the house, makse so much noise I wish he would go out doors and stay there spilling the potatoes all over the [strikethrough] house [/strikethrough] floor Maud scrubbing herself taking a bath A letter from Voltie and one from John D.B. �54 Saturday 12 May -00 A very fine day Arthur picking up stones at Wellies working with teams I and Grace and Maud planted potatoes in field planted sweet corn in garden and a short ton of potatoes Flora Dixon came over and brought me sweet peas and I gave her flower seed Maud made flower bed under the window Grace cleaned pantry wood work and floor Maud moped Kitchen floor. After Arthur got his chores all done I let him go to Wills to play with Charley and he staid until 10 oclock pm �55 Sunday 13 May 00 A beautiful warm day Maud went to Sabath school and received and received her first paper I wrote a long letter to Johny and then. walk over to Wills to see mother and while there, up came a grand thunder and lightning storm it rained beautifully. Jen had fried fish fine cookies and cherry preserves and new bread for tea and I was very hungry and enjoyed my evening meal to hearts satisfaction Arthur came to see why I did not come home but the road is a running brooks mother Will and Jen and all the children urged me to stay all night but I would’nt so Arthur drove over for me with old Jess and while trying to get in the buggy by steping in to a chair the chair tipped over and I fell and raked the sKin off both my legs so went home bruised and angry. Grace done my shins up in salve and rags but both legs smart like fire a burn �56 Friday [strikethrough] 19 [/strikethrough] 18 May 00 a cool day I white wash over head and Grace paint Kitchen doors windows frames and wainscoating bombay red; a very dark color Maud goes to school Art work for Wellie No letters this mail for any of us Grace somewhat disapointed although she has received two letters from Bob this week but- her money order she did not get Saturday 19 a windy day but clear. Grace finishes painting the Kitchen. Maud shits up the Kitchen floor and Irene cavomme[sic] the ceiling and churns p m Maud goes with Shell to Miss Irvine’s for a music lesson Evening cold and chilly Arthur pulverizes the garden with rake and hoe and we sow sweet peas for flowers �57 Saturday 20 of May 00 A very fine morning sun light and warm a delightful sabots morn trees just bursting into leaf Maud goes to saboth school and church and [strikethrough] Mau [/strikethrough] Grace goes to church and Arthur and I get dinner Afternoon grows colder and the wind sweeps down from the North a cold backward spring Wellie came up a little while. And not see any of Wills family to day Monday 21st May -00 A cold day. Wind N.W. and rain squalls Maude goes to School. Grace paints Kitchen floor which tires her completely poor girlie. Arthur and I make garden and sow seeds with the little drill, beets, carrots, turnips sage Arthur transplants three roots of rhubarb and plants some pop corn. Tom Dignam drove in here for the little seed drill- said Wellie lent it to him, we have only had it home 24 hours for the first time in a year, but he got it He may as well take it as any other irishman Maud thumping away at music lesson �58 1900 May 30st The Last of the month except tomorrow Monday have not written in a week, but I we have finished painting Kitchen and papered dining room The whole family went to the 24 May and as the whole family consints of Grace Maud & Arthur and your humble servant The humble servant staid home Muriel came up and staid with me all day: Grace walked home from the dock and was sick all the rest of week Arthur got the pouts all week after going to Kingston So he goes to Wellies to cool off. I am tired of boys of his timber Grace made him a near pair of pants yesterday. Edith Dixon came up to see her grandmother. Wellie set the pump and now we have fine cold water Eveline came up Monday when Wellie set the pump, and staid all day. �59 Thursday 31st May 00 Alright warm day Light South wnid. Artemus drove to dock with Grace With Jess and dog cart came back and says Will Dixon wants him to help run fish nets at foot of Island So after breakfast he goes to help Will. Maud and I do house work, scrub the cellar, Maud mops Kitchen I hoe in garden. I send 18 lbs butter to market Maud & I pick 4 qrts of dandelion blossoms to make wine �60 Ethel Leeman Orphans home Union Street Kingston On Canada Emma Leeman St Lawence Po Wolfe Island Ont Canada Edith Leeman St Lawence Po Wolfe Island Ont Canada Ethel M Leeman St Lawence Po Wolfe Island Ont Canada �61 Prince Patrick of York. London April 5 It is that, by the desire of Queen Victoria. The son that was born to the Duke and Dutchess of York, Saturday, will be christened Patrick. O, Paddy, dear, and did you hear The news That’s going round? The shamrock blooms as ne’er before All o’er The Irish ground; The Queen has come to Dublin Town And right o’Top of ’that, She telegraphs the Duke of York I call the baby Pat! She might have given to the Duke The choice of several names: For instance, Mathew, Mark and Luke, And John and Joe and James; And Jacob, Isaac, Abraham, But no- instead of that, She telegraphs the Duke of York To call the baby Pat. �62 She might have wished the boy to bear Some Scotch or English name, Some chieftain of the mighty past That fills the trump of fame; But Scottish names she put aside, And English- Think o’ ThatAnd turning to the Emerald Isle, She said, "Let’s call him Pat"! O Paddy, dear, ’tis very clear The shamrock’s blooming right. So let’s be wearing of the green And dance a jig to night; The Queen has come to Dublin town And right o’ top of that, She telegraphs the Dublin of York, To call the baby Pat! -New York Mail & Express. and the Kingston News �63 Dandelion Wind One gallon of dandelion blossoms picked when the sun shines. Pour over them one gallon of boiling water. Let this stand in a cool place for three days, then put it into a pocelain lined Kettle or one of agate ware, and add the rinds of three oranges and one lemon cut fine. Boil the mixture fifteen minutes, then strain through a fannel bag, and add three lbs of sugar, and the pulp of the oranges and lemon. When luke warm add two table spoonfuls of yeast and allow the mixture to stand one week in a warm place then strain again, and let stand three weeks, when the wine will be ready for boiling. This combines the flavoring of the best wine with the well Known medicinal properties of the dandelion. �64 at Cape Will mailed for me 3 letters ,06 I am owing Will ,08 cents I am owing Voltie $2,37 mary marjorie Halliday marjorie Halli m Wolfe Island Wolfe Island �65 cast on 44 stitches and Knit across plain 1 ros st 1, kn 3 (over, sl1, n, bind one, over k 3) 5 times, 0 sl 1, n b 1, a, k1 2 p 2 tog, op 2 tog, op 2 tog. 2n row o 2 p 2 tog o p 2 tog o p 2 tog rest plain & alternate 3rd row sl 1, k 3, o, k1, (0, K1, on K1k n 5 times) ok 1 o k2 o2, p2 tog , op 2 tog op 2 tog. 5 row S 1, K1, n, (o, k5, o, sl 1, n, b1,) 5 times, o k 3, ok2 o 2 p 2 tog, o p 2 tog, o p 2 tog. 7 row sl 1, k 2, (o,n,k1,n,o, k1) 5 times, o or k1, n, o k2, o2, p2 tog, op2 tog, op2 tog, 9 row sl 1, k3 (o sl 1, n, b1, o, k3) 5 times, o sl 1, n, b 1, o k 3, o 2, p2 tog,o p 2 tog, o p 2 tog 11 row Sl 1, k2 n (o K1, o, n, K1, n,( 5 times o, sl 1, n, b1, o, K3, O2, p2 tog, o p 2 tog o p tog. 13 row Sl 1, K 1, n, (o K3, o, sl1, n, b1,) 5 times, o k 3, o, k4 62 p 2 tog o, p2 tog, o p 2 tog 15 row Sl 1, l2, (o, n, K1, n , o K1) 5 times, o K 5, draw over 4 k1 16 row all plain [sideways] 21 34 21 50 — 43, 34 41 00 — 2,34 1,66 000 ,68 Maud Watson St Lawrence P. O. ON [/sidways] �66 I. D. Bamford 1899 Lookout on str North Wind of the grate northen S.S Line �67 Grace D. Bamford. Grace D. Bamford. Grace R. Bamford Irene arthurs shoe 90 1,66 5 arthur 2.5 fare — 1 96 5 postage 000 2, 07 �68 PHOTOMOUNT PAMPHLET BINDER Manufactured by GAYLORD BROS. Inc. Syracus, N. Y. Stockton, Calif. �69 �This document would not be possible without the editorial contributions of the following people: Vivian Zhang and Queen’s University Archives � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Collection Subject The topic of the resource 19th and 20th Century Rural Ontario Diaries Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Courtesy of Queen's University Archives Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1887-1922 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Frontenac County, Wolfe Island, Ontario Table Of Contents A list of subunits of the resource. Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1887 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1888-1889 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1889-1897 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1890 March - June Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1893-1895 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1895-1899 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1896 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1897-1898 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1898 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1899 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1899-1900 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1900 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1902, 1906 parts of Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1902-1909 parts of Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1904-1905 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1907 & 1918 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1908-1919 parts of Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1911 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1913 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1913-1914 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1915-1916 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1916-1917 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1917-1918 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1918 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1921-1922 Language A language of the resource English Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1900 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Courtesy of Queen's University Archives Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1900 Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 20th Century, Frontenac County, Wolfe Island, Ontario Date Created Date of creation of the resource. March 1st, 1900 (p. 24) Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Collection Medium The material or physical carrier of the resource. Typed Transcription UG Transcription Progress Scripto transcription progress Done transcribed https://ruraldiaries.lib.uoguelph.ca/transcribe/files/original/15104d9578954590a3569e244dd3f4d7.pdf fd8a87fe5a1ddbd6360e896cca853b86 PDF Text Text Irene Dixon Bamford 1899 August to 1900 January, Diary Transcription 5034_4-1-11 �Metadata FromThePage export of 5034_4-1-11 from Irene Dixon Bamford made on 2026-02-11 14:35:12 UTC. itemTitle: August 30th 1899-January 18, 1900 date: 1899-1900 Title: 5034_4-1-11 Description: Item is a diary. Created On: 2024-01-11 17:30:14 UTC In Scope: true Uploaded Filename: 5034_4-1-11 �1 [File Folder] Irene Dixon Bamford Diary August 30th 1899-January 18, 1900 [Stamp] Queen’s University Archives Locator 50034.4 Box File �2 August 30th 1899 - January 18, 1900 �3 Re-read ’76 - ’84 �4 Wednesday Aug 30th 1899 A very hot day & dry smokey #3 [stamp: Date 1899 Sealed with Gulfwax] Interesting Thursday Aug 31st 1899 [left margin tape has covered writing down the entire page] A beautiful dry hot smokey day. Grace goes to Kingston 8lbs butter at 25¢ per pound. Hubert came up for me said his ma is sick and wants me so [?] hitches up Bess and away I go and find [her] in bed with pain in side and shoulder cant move. So I doctor her with burdock leaves & hops & vinegar & salt She gets better towards night and can [get] up and walk some but it would [not] mattter if she was going to die why [?] would have to suck and maul her around and [?] thin as a skeleton. I churned and [?] the butter [?] down cellar and set top the cellar steps and the cellar [?] �5 Re-read ’76-’84 Friday 1 September 1899 Stay with Eveline all day she is better but will persist in doing work but I keep her quiet as possible. A fine day. Willie working for Geo R. They are threshing for Niles. Saturday 2 Sept 1899. A fine day. Stay with Eveline all day and help her all I can. Eveline gets well to fast: her ambition greater than her strength poor dear girl. We fill a straw bed at the stack with new threshed oat straw and then Eveline & the children and I go to the garden to see the vegetables—cucumbers, tomatoes, melons, squashes, beans, corn, pumkins, cabbage carrots, potatos, Eveline leads Dan to [tape covering bottom of page, covering last lines of page] �6 Sunday 3 September 1899. 3 A fine day Arthur came for me last night with Bess and the buggy. Sorry to leave Eveline but always happy to come home. Monday 4 Sept 1899 A fine dry day. Wills children carrying all their water from the river and drove their cows to the concession to water. �7 Re-read ’76-’84 4 Tuesday 5 Sept 1899 A cool morning. Grace goes to Evelines to pick cucumbers found her sick in bed so staid [sic] and done the work and took care of her. Babcock picks the cucumbers. Frank Woodman threshing peas in field with their old horse power. Wednesday 6 Sept 1899 A fine day but cool. Grace went this morning to wash for Eveline gone till 2 o’clock pm. Came back bringing Evelines butter which I work out the brine and make 6 prints, and a piece which I send back for Arthur. Irene churns and make 8 lbs for ourselves. Grace just going to take a nap when behold! Jen & Mary Anne come over visiting and so we had to gossip and music and get extra tea. Mary Anne has a fearful bad cold in her head and a cough. Jen carries away her apron. �8 5 Thursday 7 Sept 1899 A very fine day. Arthur drives to the dock with Grace—8 lbs butter for us and 6 for Eveline. Willie sends Babcock to draw Volties grain to scow he works here all day and I get his dinner and tea. Arthur having a high time to day. I churn for supper and milk three cows. Maud goes canvasing for "Family Herald & Weekley Star" gets 4 subscribers. Arthur drives to dock at sundown. Grace comes home after dark bringing sugar, onions. John brings the grist for the boys and flour from the mill. Mary Anne Duggin goes home this morning. Jen goes to Kingston too and they all meet in kitchen of the Pierpont. R says she is sorry she ever said any thing about Bob said it was said in ignorance but the better way would have been to have said nothing for words once spoken can never be recalled, they are there for eternity, they may be forgiven but never forgoten [sic], speak well of every one or dont speak at all. �9 Friday 8 September 1899 A warm morning, clouds moving southward, cows all here lying on the point. Sun shining out through clouds. John Babcock assisted by Hubert and Arthur cleaning and drawing oats to the scow at dock. Dick Larush Passt. Maud at school didn’t want to go. Charley Dixon came over at noon stays and turns mill 2 hours. Arthur got a spell don’t like to work very prankish. Bob says keep him away from the grainery for he hinders work. Muriel came up bringing a basket of flower cans and getting subsribers for the "Ladies World". She has six subscribers already. Muriel says Ethel told her mamma (Eveline) that Grace pd. 30 cts for butter yesterday. Grace got 25 cents only. Grace sold E’s butter on market "Don’t cher know". Shell came down to practice her music on piano. Ethel & Lottie came over and brought the drippings that R. gave Grace yesterday on the boat. Asked Ethel about the price of butter said he told Eve so for Jen has said it was 30 cts in market. Work at grainery goes very slow pretty near 4pm and only 1 Load �10 Grace has to go to grainery to help clean grain. A warm quiet day. We make peach preserves. Grace sends Mrs G a postal about those cucumbers for mustard pickles. It looks like rain. Ethel said her grandmother is sick, they brought a basket for apples and piled it full. Babcock worked at clearing oats for Wellie & Voltie till after dark. Arthur & Hubert went with John B to the dock. Mail a letter from Voltie with order for $25 dollars, a letter from Rathbun Company, one from May Wormwith, Whig, Family Herrald, 2 papers from Dick Brown England. Saturday 9 September 1899 Wind North a cold morning. The first one out is myself with fire built and bread mixed. We have our breakfast, I wash dishes and clean pantry. Maud fixes the house rooms all up tidy and cleans floors. Grace & Arthur digs potatoes. We think & believe our potatoes have been dug by thieves afraid we will not have enough for Winter. I saw wood & get dinner. A beautiful day clear cool but dry �11 8 Sunday 10 September 1899 A fine day very warm and dry, arose at 6 A M. I employ most of the day writing letters. Write a long letter to Dick Jackson, London, England. Grace takes a long nap on the couch in parlor then gets dinner. After dinner I walk over to Wills to see Gran. Charley came out to meet me and when nearly there. Bernard Morgan & Flora McDonel passed us in Buggy and after saying how we do said they were going down the island for a drive and were coming to our house when returning homeward. Found Wills folks well and Jen baking the greatest lot of bread and buns. Flora & Bernard after a short drive came back and stoped at Wills and we all staid to tea. And Oh my what a spread! hot buns & butter, honey, plums, preserves, pumpkin pie, lemon pie, pickles & port, cream and sugar and a powerful cup of tea then Bernard, Charley & Will went & milked the cows & fixed the fence. And of course Maud came over as usual. Flora, Jen and I drive over here home in Bernards buggy leaving Will, Bernard and Charley to follow after with Maud & Flora in the rear. When we arrived at home we found Wellie & Eveline and their children here with Grace and Arthur and we had a very �12 social time till 11 pm. Eveline and Wellie and kids went home earlier got to bed about 12 midnight circle around sun Monday 11 September 1899 A cloudy morning sprinkled several times during the day. Arthur drew a barrel of water for Grace to wash, done great washing; all the lines full. Maud at school. Hurbert at school. Arthur draws a barrel of water for hogs and picks up apples. I milk 2 cows and Grace gets breakfast. Arthur and I clean cider mill and try to make cider but dont know how the mill works at all so leave it in disgust; afterwards put the plow in the machine shed, feed the hogs and come to the house again. Tuesday 12 �13 10 13 Wednesday Thursday 14 Sept 1899 Arose at 4 am. Another market day carrying butter for Eveline and ourselves and apples and nuts for young Gaskin Jack. �14 11 Friday 15 Sept 1899 Arose this morning with the consciousness of having to go to Kingston to the dentist. I dont like it but I’ll go if Dr Daily pulls my off. Lisa fine day wind south and breezy roads fine and hard as asphalt. At one pm Arthur drives to door with Bess and I mount in and away I go. Bess on trot pass to vehicles on the road, one Mr Dick Irvine. Examine all the orchards along the road. Apple crop poor, saw some men plowing in field a few turnips growing & tomatoes ripening. When in sight of Bells knew they had threshing machine going in full blast so horse did not go to Kingston tomorrow. Saturday 16 Bell arose early got breakfast for threshers, had hard work to get Mac McClaren up to breakfast. Threshers staid till after dinner, ate nearly all the big roast of beef. Isadore Simons went home mad, because some of the intelligent white irish called Isadore a "nigger"!! After dinner we employ the remander of the day washing dishes, cleaning up the rooms. Belle glad they are gone had them 4 days with boys 8 horse power and the homliest dirtiest lot of men I ever saw �15 12 Sunday 17 A pleasant day looks like rain after we get the breakfast work done and beds made. Charley goes over to brophys point for nuts. Joe said no one to get my bill he has a hundred qts. The girls and Charles junior went along & picked some from their one tree by their garden. I read most all day and time passes on. Monday 18 Sept 1899 The warmest september day I ever remember as hot as August and no wind. Charley threshing for Brown. Marjorie, Beatrice, Irene & Charles Jr at school. Belle done (and me too) lot of talking to day about several things. Belle makes her catsup (tomato) 30 bottles; fine gave me a bottle, and peppers. After school Bill goes away down towards the river where they have a garden and brings potatoes, great yellow cucumbers for sweet pickles and water melons. R going to [?] over her head expecting her intentions of picking all the nuts. [print faded - illegible] �16 13 Tuesday 19 Sept 1899 Awoke this morning to find the rain pouring but I’m going Cityward all same so after breakfast V and I start for the villiage driving Bess over the mudy roads and through the rain. Call at Griffins and order Bess shod forward drive to Costello’s and round to the back door as here we alright and proceed in doors and are very cordialy received by Mr and Mrs Costello. Mr C cares for the horse, and Mrs C invites us to a hot cup of coffee and a substantial lunch of toast, bread & butter, cake, grapes &c. Afterwards admiring the paneling of her rooms, the flowers, the antics of her kittens when the pierpont arrives at landing and we go on board through a wind and rain and after a few minutes proceed to the lower regions of the domicil of the cook where we are invited to another breakfast but decline with thanks, Arrive in Kingston and is [illegible] Proceed to the market for tomatoes, [illegible] 70 to 80 cts per bushel we dont buy. next go to [illegible] from there to Haines and Pocket where Bell buys a pair of rubbers and then to the bank where she gets [?] cashed for $25 dollars and then to [illegible] dentist where we wait two hours for customer [illegible] sit in dentist chair and bare all my teeth pulled out but one [illegible] �17 Wednesday 20 Sept 1897 Awoke this morning to find the rain tumblng down in great force: all the same I’m going home after breakfast. Charley hitches Bess before the buggy and Bell and I pack my articles onions, tomatoes & aggate [sic: agate] ware and other duds and I bid Bell & children good bye and drive out the big gate. Bess very ambitious when she found she was headed for home but stoped her trot before reaching the school house and walked every step of way home like going through porridge, roads all water and mud. Passed several milk wagons on the road and children going to school. Wind North and chilly. I arrive home at 1/2 past 11 am. Waited at the gate till Maud ran up to open gate to let Bess through: found Grace washing and found that I had left all my summer savoy and peppers at Bells but I am so glad to get home. Willie away up the Island threshing for darkie Wells. Charley Halliday gone to the city to day. Afternoon I wash dishes and cook tomatoes for catsup and Jen and Wall Niles came and Grace gone to Evelines to see about the pickles and Hubert & Maud came bringing Eveline back. �18 15 Thursday 21 Sept 1897 The same old thing get out at four am. Arthur catches tons and Grace loads in more baskets than usual. A basket of butter for us and one for Eveline, a basket of crab apples for Mabel G, a basket of apples for Nellie Grey and Arthur going home to visit for the day carying [sic] a small basket of apples and nuts to his little sister Florrie. Maud drives them to the dock. Afterward Maud and I milk cows in stable. I scratch around and get a little wood to start fire when Will and Charlie come over & Will chops wood enough to last all day. Maud feeds hogs and I send Maud to Jen’s for fruit strainer and to Aunt Ruths for vinegar and make 10 bottle of tomato catsup. Maud milked all the cows at evening. Will came over and fixed the strap to harness and drove to dock for Grace and her things. Grace today paid in office Kirk and Rod $106 dollars $7,40 cts to Rathbun Co 10 to McDowel. sold the butter 11 pounds on Market, bought all her own groceries & other things sold Eveline butter and bought more groceries and things. bought all Jens. Hubert called on Nellie went up to G’s ate her and super on the Pierpont. Shell & Jen then went up to day. Shell says she (Shell) is very proud Oh my �19 16 Friday 22 Sept 1894 A very fine day. Grace goes to Evelines to make mustard pickles carrying all kinds of spices, onions and vinegar. Hubert & Muriel came up for their groceries, sugar, tea & spices. After a while Muriel came back for Maud to go with her to Sam’s for vinegar but they had none for her and were sorry for Aunt Ruth had let me have all they had to spare so I sent them up to Mrs Niles but she has none. A very good outlook three great orchards Niles, Bamfords and Woodmans, and barrels of cider made from the three orchards every fall and not vinegar enough among the trio to make pickles. I suppose the barrels leaked at the tap. Oh well cider is more proffitable [sic: profitable] than vinegar, cant drink vinegar very well and cider slips down very easily. Well I told Muriel if they could not get any from Rube, Grace and Eveline may have the vinegar I am keeping for cucumber catchup. Arthur brings in 6 eggs which makes over 10 dozen laid down for winter. I make pumkin pies and use two eggs for pies. I wrote a letter to V and one to Sr. Evening mail Whig, Family Herrald, two from England, News of the World and comic, a letter from Voltie, one from Bob, postal from �20 17 [Page has faded making many words illegible, these will be indicated with a #] Saturday 23 Wind north and cool but a very pleasant day. After breakfast Arthur hitches up Bess and Grace drives to Rubes for vinegar and then to Evelines to finish making mustard pickles. I send Maud and Arthur for hickory nuts and grapes, down by the cedars and I do up the dishes, # milk, churning &c. I look out the kitchen window—and a cow in here making straight for the orchard. I drive her out, dog gone after nuts too soon take another peep out; cows all in the road, and then go on Niles’ meadows. I cant go for them. When Willie came back from driving grain to dock, stops and drives them off their meadow then up the road they go; some one dogs them back to the # then Samy dogs chase them down the road then I go for Arthur and Arthur and Prince dog them home again and I continue down to the nut trees. A fine harvest of nuts if only gathered. Arthur comes home to feed all the hogs, but couldnt Maud gets dinner. M make a discovery, that Grace in our abscence [sic: absence] has been home and carried off our three 1 gallon crocks. Arthur and Maud were still # had been here till they furthermore discovered a small bag of # and a lot of geranium cuttings for flower pots soon after # comes home bringing the three jars filled with beans and # off the grapes and puts them in layers with sugar & pickles and a [remainder illegible] �21 18 Sunday 24 Sept 1899 A rainy morning. Wind South and blowing didn’t get up this morning till nearly 7 am. No fire in stove: no wood & first thing done cleaned out fire place and ash, pm then skimmed all the milk remaining in cellar; by this time my precious family were well out of bed. Arthur fed the hogs. Grace went to milk. Maud & I went after apples, through the orchard, the wind blew down about 2 bushels of all kinds then I choped wood & built fire. Grace came in and got breakfast. I washed pans and strained milk. Grace cleaned up the nut shucks from the floor (over a bushel). Grace and Maud washed dishes. Raining pouring, wind blowing the leaves from the trees ground covered wtih falling leaves like November. I suppose we will not have any visitors to day. I think Grace & Maud are gone to bed have not seen any thing of them in two hours. Arthur shucking nuts most all day, fire in stove gone out. One Oclock pm. Wallace �22 19 Monday 25 Tuesday 26 �23 25 Wednesday 27 Thursday 28 �24 Friday 29 Saturday 30 �25 22 Sunday 1 Monday 2 �26 23 Tuesday 3 Wednesday 4 �27 24 Thursday 5 Friday 6 �28 25 Friday 6 Oct 1899 A fine day warm as June, colored carpet rags and was sitting on the veranda sewing and winding balls. She brought the summer savory. I left them at her house and pepper and beans and Graces handkerchief and citrons. Saturday 7 Oct 1899 Grace and Bell gathering nuts and apples and grapes. Bell picked the grapes for me. A beautiful day warm and lovely weather. �29 26 Sunday 8 Oct 1899 A very fine day Belle and Grace drive to Wellies to make a visit leaving Charles Junior here, they staid till 3 pm and then came back & Bell loaded up and went home— pumpkins, squash, apples, hickory nuts, &c &c. We had a rooster for dinner. Monday 9 Oct 1899 A beautiful day. Will & Jen and Charley went to the bay for kerosine, we sent for 6 gallons oil is 12 cts per gallon. �30 27 Tuesday 10 Oct 1899 A fine warm day Wednesday 11 Oct 1899 A beautiful day warm and clear. Grace, Arthur and Maud gathered apples 3 barrels. Willie came in evening from threshing & cleaned up two bags of wheat for mill. Arthur helping with Lantern then Wellie carried his bag to the dock in the dog cart and put our bag in the buggy. �31 28 Muriel went to Kingston. I colored rags. Thursday 12 Oct 1899 A beautiful warm day arise at 4 am. Arthur drives to the wharf with Grace. Maud sweeps, makes all the beds, cleans floors and after dinner we three drive to Evelines for pumpkins and coming home I stop at Wills sending Arthur home with buggy. Maud & I quarrel and so Maud walks home. Charley and Jen bringing water from the river to get supper. The boat comes in late on account of the Marysville fair. Friday 13 Oct 1899 A very warm day sun bright, weather hazy. I write to Voltie. Grace sewing and doing housework. Arthur gathering apples and nuts. Hawk catching our chickens in the orchard. No letters from any one. �32 27 Saturday 14 Oct 1899 Saturday is a beautiful fine warm day wind South, grass growing fresh and green. Washed towels. Maud went over to Wills to gather autumn leaves to press. Cloudy towards eve with a little rain. Jen came over in eve to learn to point lace & Charley and Will came too. Sunday 15 Oct 1899 A beautiful warm day while still but the leaves are falling. Maud goes to Evelines and to church. Grace goes to bed. Irene does the work. But Grace poor girl has to get most all the wood, we are thankful for the fine warm weather for we dont require much wood. �33 30 Monday 16 A clear fine day and warm as June. Jen came over to get sewing done, night gowns and night caps full of complaints about the neighbors, wants to move but cant. Tuesday 17 Oct 1899 A clear bright day wind south, blowing at a gale. I write to Wills. Maude & I gather hickory nuts in the grove, a pail full. Grace sewing after dinner. I spend the afternoon unsnarling and winding a skein of carpet warp. �34 Wednesday 18 Oct 1899 A very fine day rained in the night, barrel 1/2 full of water. Wind South. Maud got tooth ache - churned, pared apples, to dry. Grace carried the carpet balls and warp to Mrs Niles and then drove to Wellies for the pickles but couldn’t bring them home in buggy. Will, James & crossed the cross cut saw and then went to W’s to thresh. Willie threshing for Morgan. Grace knitting petticoat trimmings. Shell Niles, Wills youngones drawing their cattle to the concession to water A beautiful warm month of nights and the river like a mirror. �35 32 Thursday 19 Oct 1899 A very fine day. Wind South Thanksgiving day throughout Canada. Arthur drove me over to Wills had a fine dinner & after dinner Mrs Morgan came and Mrs M & the children and myself went back in the brush for bitter sweet berries. To decorate the house at Christmas time. I colored some carpet rags for Jen and we stayed to tea and such a grand meal I dont get every day. There was mashed potatoes done in cream and butter, stewed chicken & briskets stuff & gravy, rolls & peach preserves, bread & butter, cookies, jelly cake, and muffin ring cakes, and chow chows, cream and tea,—before supper we had wine & cake which spoiled my appetite. Mr Morgan after dark came for the Mrs and Arthur came for I didn’t know as I was sure of a good nights rest after eating so much but but I took a big dose of soda water and went to bed and slept the sleep of the just & the righteous without any consequences. �36 33 Friday 20 Saturday 21 �37 34 Sunday 22 Monday 23 �38 35 Tuesday 24 Wednesday 25 �39 35 Thursday 26 Friday 27 �40 39 Charley with two masks an Irishman & a negro October 31st Tuesday 1899 A cloudy morning beginning to rain. Rains nearly all day and rains so much at evening, we don’t send Arthur for the mail. Grace does the ironing and gets wood for night She and Arthur fills the wood box. Welly finished threshing for Rattray to day. The party at Wellingtons must prove a failure and Briben cant come for Mary to take her to the party. Irene picks the last of the annuals (flowers) for Grace to take to her friends in Kingston. Rained so hard in evening. Arthur did not go for mail till morning. �41 40 Wednesday 1 Nov 1899 A cold rainy day preparing again for market churned and make 13 lbs butter in evening, dress 4 fowl for market. Grace cleans chamber Arthur goes for mail and get seven letters 2 from V, one from Sr, one from r.G. one from Bernard one from Johny one from Laura John writes that Mrs Lindley has a paralytic stroke. Thursday 2 Nov 1899 Rise at 4 am get Grace’s breakfast put up the fowls in basket (the flowers and butter in basket last night) and Arthur drives to dock. A cold morning and a cold day We did not know what we could do for wood but Arthur filled the wood box full as high as it could be piled and plenty of chip at night. Arthur drove to dock for Grace but she didn’t return, but sent a note that she going to stay all night in Kingston to do her shopping tomorrow, she sent home two rockers and the parlor cutains. Grace send word that she will come down with the mail. �42 41 Friday 3 Nov 1899 Awake this morning to find Grace gone but we pass a very pleasant day. Cloudy towards night looks like rain. Maud and Arthur hurry evening and get the chores done early. Arthur helped wash the dishes and then at 7 pm away they go with the lantern clear and brightly burning for Grace and the mail and Irene and the dogs are left alone. They are gone a long time. I peer out in the darkness to see the lantern or hear some friendly sound or more lanterns flitting up and down the road chasing each other from the church down to our barn like a will o the wisp having a ghostly dance. Ten oclock when they come and for a wonder Grace was with them but they were obliged to run for the rain began pouring down the walk. �43 42 long behind time on account of Miss Obrien stopping at the ferry for music lesson. Mrs Obrien stoped at the ferry to have her leg doctored, she broke a bone in her ankle two weeks or more ago climbing apple trees the fat old fool. She went once this summer to St. Anne shrine for some sort of a "complaint". She was mad because Grace wanted a passage home with them said the horse couldn’t carry Grace & Min. Oh no but the same horse could drag Min and the Old "Rhinoceras" to the villiage. Well Grace bought her dress and other fixings at Steaceys At 11 pm we went to bed forgot to say Wellie came up and drew us some wood from below the cedars, knocked out old cedars stumps &c All our young folks were in the road playing tag each with a lantern. �44 43 Saturday 4 Nov 1899 It is well for us all Grace included that Grace came down with the mail for the rain is a steady downpour all day, but we have wood and pass the day very comfortably. We didn’t hurt ourselves with work to day. Grace arranged the parlor and put up the new curtains. Evening time Will & Charley came over with the new books, Will is agent for very fine books; wish we could buy them. �45 44 Sunday 5 Nov 1899 Raining this morning but clears away so Maud goes to Sabath school and quarterly meeting. A.K.. goes too and Sunday peace and quietness has come to stay for a couple of hours. I write to Dick Brown and Grace goes upstairs and to bed just before dark. Frank Woodman A.K. = Arthur Knapp �46 45 Monday 6 Nov 1899 A fine Monday wind S.W. Grace done big washing while I sewed another ball of hit and miss. Charley came over for X cut, it is down to Wellie. Wants to borrow steelyards it is down to Wellies. Wants to borrow a spool of white thread No. 40. He got it. Wants (if I have it to spare) 18 lbs of flour which they are owing Mr. Niles. He says trade the flour on a half bushel of beans which we bought of Will a while ago and which they have already had 32 lbs. So after dinner I weigh the flour (sent A for steelyard) 18 lbs and Maud & I with flour and a quart of kerosine (which we owe Mrs Niles) and a ball of carpet rags & proceed to the Niles mansion where we find Mrs N. �47 46 working our carpet having at last got Mary Woodmans carpet out of the loom. 32 lbs flour 18 lbs flour = 50 lbs flour is I guess enough for 1/2 bushel of beans. Evening sunset clear and fine with a new moon 2 days old some what cold and not much wood so go to bed early. Wellie to day sold old red cow and the yearling bull & Molly. �48 47 Tuesday 7 Nov. 1899 A fine day. Wind South but cool; not much wood in the box this morning but Arthur had picked up a good lot of chips so we got our breakfast all right. Arthur mad because he had to milk and hit the cow with the milking stool. That was worse than pounding the cow stable door with a club last Saturday morning because it could not stay open on account of wind blowing it shut as fast as Artimus opened it but he soon got all right again and borrowed Mr Woodmans milk waggon to draw gravel to put around the door. Irene raked off the yard and moved the plants into her bedroom. Maud learning to sew on machine. Grace went out to get wood for night when Wellie drove in here and chopped wood. The sunsets bright and clear. �49 48 Wednesday 8 Nov 1899 A beautiful day warm sunbright but hazy, grass growing green. I write to Voltie. Wills, Wellie saws down and splits the ash tree and stayed to dinner and Charley too. After dinner Arthur borrowed uncle Sams milk cart and drew more gravel and then drew the ash wood. Maud cleaned pantry and kitchen floor. Grace done housework, churned and pack butter &c Thursday 9 Nov 1899 Arose at 1/2 4. Irene going to Kingston. Arthur drove to the dock, morning being very dark & foggy, burning a lantern all the way, found only lantern on the dock which was Wellie’s. A great lot of freight to be carried aboard, cheese, pork, grists, apples, eggs, butter and the neighbours gathered around. Boat came late from Gananoque on account of fog. Pierpont blew the whistle at intervals all the way from our dock to Kingston arrived there at 11 am. Went directly to the �50 49 post office but found I could not get the order cashed for it was in Grace’s name but it was all right with the dentist, gave him the order which he accepted for Grace to sign next Thursday. Thursday 30 Nov 1899 A long time since I have written in my diary many events have transpired but am thankful to write "Nothing very alarming except that Mrs Catherine Rattray is very sick and not expected to live long. She is afflicted with a cancer. Grace’s dressmaker has come and gone this morning through the dark and rainy November morning—had to carry a lantern to find the way to �51 50 the wharf. During the present month we have a plowing bee, 8 teams and their drivers. The neighbours were good to help us. Charley Woodman, Frank Woodman, Robert Reid, Percy Gillespie, Welly & Jack Niles & Herbert Dignam & Geo McDonel. Welly and Will butchered for us a week ago. Sold one hog and salted the other. We have not suffered for fires yet. Grace bought one bag of coal which lasted a week. The weather has been unusually warm all through the month of November. The cows getting a good feed of grass every day, only one fall of snow which �52 51 did not last long. Rob Ranous and a Miss McMullen were married this month and a son born for Mr & Mrs George Morgan Jr. Jen had a quilting but I could not attend but she had most of her relatives from off the foot of the Island, the Micheas & Gillespies and Nesbits and Mrs. W.H. Woodman & Mrs Frank Woodman. My mouth been sore all month cutting teeth so late in life does not agree with me very well but "They Say" I’ll get used to them. Hope so. Frank Bamford and Jim Maloney came for school tax on Lindas 85 cts paid and receipted. Frank came over again and went to Kingston. �53 52 Mrs Niles wove our carpet which by the help of Will and Welly we stretched over the dining room floor and under the coal stove. I colored rags for Jen violet, green, and red. Ought to have answered Bernard Morgans letter but never have up to the present date. Sent Johny letters & new papers but no returning answer yet. Will Ranous and wife have adopted a baby. Did not receive any letter from Voltie Tuesdays mail and am disappointed. Wellie came to day and chopped us wood & Arthur & Maud picked up some from away down below the cedars on goose point so we are well fortified against the weather for a time. �54 55 Friday 1 December 1899 This is the first day of the last month of the year 1899 and not a very pleasant day, barometer falling but not very cold day. Grace sewing. I chop mince meat & apples and "stone raisons". Grace sewing all day. Evening pleasant in door but rainy dark & windy outside. Arthur mad & refused to go to bed but we manage to get him started at last. Will went up the Island this morning canvassing for subscribers for his new books. Wellie gone to Rattrays butchering 3 hogs for George R came home at 3 pm. Our mail came late tonight. We received two letters from Voltie, the latest date 27 Nov one from RG one from W.F.W. but none from Wells Sr. The Whig, Montreal Star, Christian Guardian & Christian Herald. �55 54 Saturday 2nd Dec 1899 A dirty rainy morning but not cold. Wind S. Wellie came up and chopped us a lot of wood. Maud washed a few things and cleaned pantry and kitchen floor, sent Arthur to Mrs Niles to buy 10 cts worth of vinegar. Wallace sent me a gallon of vinegar but would not take pay for it. Wall is a good generous boy. I prepared the mincemeat already for pies. Grace made cookies and sewed. Wallace made us a short visit in pm. Gave Wellie a bottle of homemade wine and some candy for the children all I had to give. Hubert brought me some sour krout which is a feast indeed. A windy squally night. Grace, Arthur and Maud go after dark and bring in all the clothes from the line. �56 55 wringing wet. Arthur as usual put the dogs in the barn but our noble prince managed to get out and whined and barked and fought other dogs all night in the door yard & barn yard. And I sat up till 9 oclock pm reading the history and origin of dogs, their education and training. Their good & bad traits of characters of all kinds and sort of dogs mastiffs and curs, blood hounds, collies, newfoundlands, St Bernards, Esquimoux, deer hounds, fox hounds, grey hounds, bull dogs &c &c &c and then I was anoyed by the dogs all night and several other nights previous. If I was in command I’d keep no dogs & tiny is a bird yip yip to get out & yip yip to get in who hears �57 56 Sunday 3rd December 1899 A quiet half cloudy day, not cold, grass green and growing. A most remarkable autumn for fine weather thanks be to God. Will came over awhile said he came home long after dark last night, footed it all the way from the villiage. He stayed all night friday with Belle’s family & has has 20 subscribers. Bell takes 2 books. Grace has gone over to Wills to dinner and from there to Evelines. Flora & Ethel came over to visit Maud & Arthur went over to visit Charley. Maud hung the clothes on the line this morning then went to Church evening. Maud & Arthur gone down to Wellies both lasted to come �58 57 some cutter. Grace and I am alone [???????] Monday 4 December 1899 Awoke this morning to find the ground covered with snow and not much wood and no coal but we are well. I build fire in kitchen stove. I mend Arthurs sweater and pants and mend stockings. Arthur twisted the ring out of the stove hearth with a stick which he ought to have laid to his back. always breaking something. Wellie came up and got wood for us. Wellie’s got a bad cold. Grace fixing a dress for Maud & Maud is ironing all the clean clothes. Cloudy all day looks like more snow but not very cold. Wellie Sr came �59 58 then rapped loudly on the door and I bawled out "come in" and the door was reluctantly opened by some one and behold! our old gentleman presented himself life size and though we were looking for him each day for a week, he came rather unexpectedly at last but none the less welcome. Grace & Maud flew around and soon prepared a hot meal as he had not broken his fast since leaving Watertown at 8 Oclock pm. Well we sat up till 11 Oclock talking �60 59 Tuesday 5 December 1899 A cold morning. frost on window and snow on the ground and a dark threatening horizon, but awake to find one of our dear absent ones safely at home and I am glad. The day passes uneventfully away with the usual rotine of getting the three meals and making a few mince pies. Grace sewing for Maud. Arthur choring around. We hope to get a letter from V to night and K9 too. Wells went over the river to Van’s for his trunk. Wellie went with him rowed back through a snow storm No letters from Voltie nor from K9 �61 60 Wednesday 6 December 1899 A lovely morning the snow over a foot deep on the level and snowing as hard and fast as ever it can fall. Every tree, and branch, & twig and bush, and shrub covered and loaded down with snow. the every barn and house roof covered deep in snow. We shoveled enough snow from the coal box cover to fill the tank and kettles with pure snow water - the trees and shrubery are beautiful in their dress of pure white the river is obscured weird misterious veil of falling snow. Arthur out door wading in snow to his waist after cattle and horses and he thinks it is great fun while not a beauty. �62 61 wind disturbs the scene, all nature stands motionless except fast falling snow not very warm not very cold. P.M. the storm partly clears the sun shines fair and clear, a slight wind sends the snow tumbling from the trees, soon clouds over again. Wells Sr put on his every day attire and prepared for the battle of domestic care. firstly he put Jess in stable but young Jess he could not manage for she has not been broken to the halter and is wild so she ran around barn and cantered & bounded across the fields of snow at will. Then Sr put all the young stock in the stables, choped wood, brought water, fed cows, brought his old cutter out, hitched Bess up and drove down the road and over to dock (or near there) found the snow so deep couldn’t get through. Grace sewing all day for Maud. Arthur shoveled snow paths to barn and river Irene churned made 7 prints for market. �63 62 cooked and washed dishes. Charley came over to see his uncle Wells to pay his respects a complimentary visit. Maud cleaned kitchen floor &c &c &c and so ends the day and we go early to bed for we must arise betimes 4 O’clock. Grace & Sr going to the City Thursday 7 December 1899 Arose at 4 this morning bustled around and got breakfast for all hands; very dark morning and cloudy. Arthur went to the dock to drive the team back carrying a lantern. Will came home last night from a canvassing tour, walking through the snow. The snow this morning is sticking to the lower branches of all the trees. Uncle Sam’s orchard looks ghostly in its dress of white. Maud is writing to her papa would very much to know where Voltie is now a long time since he went from there �64 63 Arthur whistles and sings so much it is tiresome and disgusting. Make and fry cakes and melt snow to wash clothes. Wells Jr has a tough time getting wood for stove. It would be a fine—a satisfying move, to move into the woods. Ah a man that has to be always on the watchful for fuel morning noon and night. "Well, I’ll have to look around somewhere today and get some wood: dont hardly know where I’m going to get it." 3 Oclock pm growing colder. Wind N.W. freezing looks dark and stormy and winter is here in earnest after all our recent warm days and green fields, and Arthur our little man of all work digs some oak limbs from under the snow and bravely chops wood enough to fill the wood box then brings water for night after melting snow enough to fill the tank and boiler so we can wash the clothes tomorrow, milks 4 cows and fills their stanchions and waters horses & cows, feeds 5 pigs and then brings Bess to the dock for Grace and her father and Arthurs boots are not good but �65 64 have holes and his feet are wet and cold—a pair of Volties old boots he left home last spring, poor Arthur. I’m sorry for him, for he is so uncomplaining. Maud swept and straightened the rooms. We made fried cakes and mince and apple pie and sauce for supper. Arthur drives to dock for Sr & Grace, snow drifted in roads, Sr walked home all right but foot sore, had supper all ready. �66 65 cooked & washed all the dishes Wells kindled a coal fire which brought on cheers and warms all the room and the hearts of all the family. Evenings mail, a letter from Laura Joslin, 2 from Voltie, "Herald & Star", "Whig", "Christian Guardian" War news is that the Dutch are whipping the "Dickens out of the English" good for Uncle "Paul". Beat them back old man. Dont let the Englishers enroach [sic: encrouch] into your little Republic and rob you of your country & homes and gold mines and diamonds. They already own enough of this Earths surface, much more than they can keep clean There is a darkest England as well as a darkest Africa �67 66 Saturday 9 December 1899 A bright day. So went to the villiage for coal, drove Jess & Bess This first time Jess been in harness since last May and she thought because she had not been in harness so long that she was superanuated and balked accordingly and as Bess dont like to drive double there was war declared instantly. But we soon brought them around all right and they drove home a load of coal at night. Sr had 4 shoes set on Bess and called at Charlies going & coming. We churned, put the clothes all on the line, cleaned floors and swept all the rooms and done general house work. Will came in the evening with his Canvassing Book, left it here for Sr inspection and then went to Niles to meet Jen and Charlie who have preceeded him. �68 67 Sunday 10 December 1899 Weather moderate cloudy wind S, clothes out on the line, dry enough to be gathered in. Wells Sr reading "Herald and Montreal star". Arthur poking his mouth full of pop corn. Grace reading while Maud combs Jens hair. The house quiet no sound except the ticking of the clock and Arthur munching pop corn. Never since Arthur came here, have I ever seen him take a book in hand to read. I think he hates books as a cat does water. I suppose I ought to write Watson and Bernard. I’m sometimes tired of writing to [ ?] of my own family Wells examined Wills books. Will came over & stays a while. Wells promises to take a book. hope he will. Our turkeys this morning are gone Cont tell �69 68 Monday 11 December 1899 Arose at 6 a m Wind south raining, snow nearly gone all mud. Was going to wash but rains heavy so finished writing to Miss Watson. Wells Sr fixing up around the barn. Arthur puttering around. Grace ironing. Maud washes dishes and helps cook. Irene make mince and apple pie. V will be at home in less than 9 days. A long winter before - us hope it will be a pleasant one. 1 pm sun shining out from behind a dark rain cloud. Charley brought Jens coloring for me to do - but, cant color to day. �70 69 Tuesday 12 December 1899 rained all last night; snow all gone not a sign of snow any where. The flat this side of Consession covered with water. Wind on the rampage all the time. Only wish Voltie was here. I color for Jen and send a letter to Watson Otawa. Grace sewing, Wellie didnt come up to day. He started to go to get wood from the north shore (Me and Will) but the wind and rain coming on they turned back again. No letters to night only one from Helen Watson, none from Voltie or Robert. Will’s book co sent him a letter adressed Rev WC Dixon Oh the days are lonely enough �71 Wednesday 13 December 1899 The month is slowly passing day after day goes by and Voltie does not come yet. We heard from him up till the sixth of December 7 days ago, expected a letter last night but was disappointed. Wind blowing fiercely from SW - churned and made out butter for market and washed dishes. Grace fried cakes and helped around the house. Maud puttered around too. Grace up last night at two fixing R.R.R. for Maud for she has got the belly ache. Oh this is a stormy month of wind snow and rain. The ground as bare as June and grass is green since the snow went off. The cows and horses can pick their living out in the fields. I think �72 71 Geo Niles has come home - just now saw a man with a long overcoat go up along the shore to Niles. The wind is howling and Grace is gone down to Wellie’s: another dark squall arising in the South. The clouds are blue black like ink. Voltie wrote he would come home before the 20 December or about that time. Sr fixing fence all day, he cant find things: he cut the rib and I have it cooking in the pot. The white cap waves are chasing each other today, while the river is is blue, green & purple & mud color along the shore. Wind blew a half gale all last night. Cant get any trace or word of our turkeys. Grace went down to visit Irene and cheer her up a bit & carried her a bag of dough nuts. brought back a pail of pickles. Arthur went down in eve to accompany Grace home �73 72 Thursday 14 December 1899 Arose at 4 am. Sr kindled the kitchen fire. (The fire in coal stove went out Tuesday night). I got breakfast for all hands. Arthur drove to dock. ground frozen some in night. Cloudy wind north but not heavy, snow lightly falling. Arthur thought he would get Maud out to milk but failed. Charlie came over to get subscribers for good litterature but I have no money & never do have any. Evening Arthur drove to dock came back bringing Bob G with him leaving Sr to walk with Will & Voltie. Wellie Sr stoped at Wills and we �74 73 waited a long time for Sr to come and at last sat down to the table when they, Wells & Will came in with each a bottle sticking out of their pocket and very funny. It is surprising how foolish men can talk when drunk. Silly senceless twaddle. Old Jim Barrie came to All of Bery’s to night, came down on the boat this pm RG said V would soon be home. Ill be sure when I see him walking in Friday 15th 1899 A clear cold bright day frost on the north window in kitchen. A heavy fall of snow last night wind blowing and snow drifting. Sr drove to the dock for hog feed and lumber Arthur, Will & Willie �75 74 went too. Arthur in Marts old overcoat which comes clean to his heels and Sr old muffler on. Nellie sent her Christmas offerings last night and I received a letter from V mailed from Sault Ste Marie Dated 9 December 6 days ago. Nelly sent a small Christmas token to Belle and Jen but nothing to Eveline who has done so much for her �76 Saturday 16th December 1899 A cold morning river steaming snow on ground. Afternoon warmer those picture frames came to day came rushing in with an old womans picture in frame said it was mine. The picture looks like the d—l in distress I am disgusted that I was such a fool as to patroning such sharpers. Grace paid them for the daub $200 it will do all right framed on a horse collar and {bring, being ?] for the stable to —— Wish V was home �77 78 Grace is cooking for the preacher who is going to dine dine tomorrow with the Bamford family. Im sorry it is going to thaw. Wish Voltie would come Sunday 17th 1899 December Wind South, raw, chilly day. A night thaw. Maud went to church. Cloudy weather. His Reverence dined with us today. fine good man He got a cold. gave him a couple of lemons to make hot drink for his cough on going to bed. he said he had always drank hot buttermilk for cold �78 81 but I thought lemons would be better. Said he had drunk some hot whiskey once by mistake. I said it wouldnt hurt him any. B.G. asked the preacher to marry him. next Thursday at two Oclock. Wish V would come. Oh lord why dont he come! It didnt choke Bob any to ask his reverence in my presence to tie the knot but he came very near choking, he blushed and stamered like a school boy. �79 82 Monday 18 Decenber 1899 Walls Sr and and R.G. went to the city to day and Jen went up. Drove over for her this morning. I wash the clothes and Grace puts them on the line to dry. W Sr comes just after dark bringing Bella home with him and Jim came and we all had my dinner together. Will and Charley came over & go home with Jen. Didn’t bring in the clothes. Wells brings wine, brandy, club whiskey and old rye. Lemons, bananas, grapes, oranges, mixed nuts and onetionary by the quart. Bell brought the ladies cake which she had made three weeks before. �80 83 Tuesday 19 December 1899 Awoke this morning to find the snow all gone but a patch here & there and clothes flapping in the rain. Went and pinned down them on line the best we could and Bell baked for the wedding and frosted the cake. Voltie dont come, got discouraged and went to bed had been abed about 10 minutes when Grace came to the bedroom door and said "Voltie is here." Well I never will say how rejoyced I was to know that Voltie was home again after 8 long weary months gone on the lakes. He had crossed the river in a punt but claims the flat covered with water up at the �81 84 Wednesday 20 December 1899 A very fine day. Voltie & Wellie go over river for Volties trunk and tow Geo Lidy’s punt home and Voltie drives to the villiage taking Belle and Katheleen home leaving Grace Junior behind. Tis long after dark when they start for the drive up the island and wind blowing sharp from the South so they carry lantern which leaks oil and goes out. Stop at Archie Barrys and bring a lantern. Roads all mud arrive at Charlie’s at 11 p.m. Sat up late to prepare the family for tomorrow’s wedding. Voltie stays all night at Belle’s. Belle set the table before going home �82 Thursday 21st December 1899 Arose at the usual hour find the weather very fine but not a flake of snow to be seen any where. This is Graces wedding morning and we expect Charlie and family here by nine O’clock. They came at ten O’clock am, 8 of them before Belle, came Jen to help carve and cut. Next came Will, Charlie & Flora. Then Wall Niles abd Shell Niles. Then Wm G Woodman & family, 6 of them. Next came the Reverend Mr Wase. Then Carl brought a load from Kingston, Bob’s father and mother, Mr & Mrs Gaskin, Mrs Charlton and Bob himself. Then Albert Charlton groomsman, May Wormworth bride’s maid Next two of Bobs cousins �83 86 Dunlop and Gowdy then Voltie and Laura Davis and last came Muriel. Geo Niles & Wellie, Eveline and the two little boys. Hubert & Clyde although invited didnt come. Came nearly forgetting Henry Holliday & Bessie Gibson. Geo Niles had to go to Kingston to get him a suit of clothes for he is going to marry Louise Dixon. The presents were many and very beautiful & costly. Well tis evening and they are married and gone on their "Lower" and �84 87 Friday 28th December -99 Month nearly gone and I have not written in this diary since 21st December. Wednes & Thursday snowing fast and furious. ground snow covered every where. Yesterday V & Sr went to Kingston. Friday evening received a letter from Grace & Bob Brooklyn. Wednesday V & Junior butchered beef for us and pork for Wells Jr. Jen came over to day and I colored green for her carpet. A letter or card from Nelly Guy she cant come down to visit us; going away to Montana to marry Brooks. �85 88 Saturday 29 or 30th December 1899 Cold dismal weather; river steaming. Will and Charley here. Wm going to Niles for hen feed. Charley came for Jens green carpet rags and butter milk. June prepared mincemeat for pies and washed clothes, such as towels, stockings, tablecloth. Maud done parlor, dining room, and chamber & cleaned pantry and kitchen floors. Evening terrible cold and we all gather around the coal stove in the dining room and enjoy a season of conversation and reading ie Wells Sr, Voltie, Maud, Arthur & "yours to command." Sunday 31st December 1899 This is the last time or day 1899 will be written for the year of A.D. while the Earth continues on its orbit around the Sun. And another such a day for storm. I do not remember since my advent on Earth although may have seen many like this one. Very cold, snowing, blowing & drifting from the North all day. V was going to drive down for E and the children and call for his grandmother but the storm prevented him. How dreary and cheerless is the appearance of the landscape. The old St. Lawrence �86 89 seen through the storm looks dark and frowning. We alone all day not a visitor. Maud gets the tea and washes dishes. Monday 1st of January 1900. The weather is moderate this morning, not nearly so cold but cloudy, the snow gently falling. Volty drives down to Wellies for Wellie and his family to spend celebrate this first day of 1900. They came and had a good time & went home at dark. We had oysters, stew, and mince pie, beef & potatoes, cheese, cookies, Christmas cake, hot buns & butter, gravy &c &c. I think Eveline enjoyed herself most thoroughly and also the little ones. While Wellie & Voltie employed their time in the shop making a sleigh. This is election day sure. The candidates for council are numerous. Geo Gillespie, Snub Woodman, Tom Murphy, Job Watts Briceland, Billy Card are a few whom are striving with might & main to secure the coveted & lucrative office and also for the high honor of the distinguished title "Councilor". �87 90 Tuesday 2nd Jan 1900 A snowy day. Voltie gone to the villiage for coal. started early Will going with him going to cross the ferry to the city to look after his books. I am sleepy. Sr. soldering old tin slop pails. Arthur playing in the kitchen with the dog. Maud studying cook book. 3rd Jan 1900 Wednesday Louise & Geo married at Ed Rattrays Thursday Shell came down in pm to learn embroidery Friday Jan 1900 Sr went to villiage in Cutter sent Belle been come county. Belle sent me big piece of cheese, weather soft Saturday a most beautiful fine day sun brilliant and warm & thawing. The sun sets in dark cloud bank Sunday 7 Jan 1900 A rainy dark day wind South and blowing. ice all broken and swept away by the heavy wind lonely day I write to Edna Quinn �88 Tuesday 9 January 1900 Arose at 4 this morning for Voltie is going to Kingston on the half past nine boat and when returning will stop at the villiage dance this evening and come home tomorrow morning �89 92 �90 93 �91 94 Friday 12 January 1900 A stormy day. Snow falling fast and furious. Irene done washing and hung them on the line. Maud done general home work. Voltie working in the shop on sleigh. Arthur at school. Wells Sr doing chores and building fires, river again frozen over this morning. Arthur at school. Nelly Guy married this day of our Lord 1900 at Montana USA to one William Brooks, Oh dear girls must be scarce in Montana and she wanted a husband pretty bad to go so far. Well Do hope she is happy & always will be. Saturday 13 January 1900 A mild snowy day sun peeping out between clouds now and then. Voltie working in shop. Sr hitches up and drives to Geo for some tools to make window sash. Maud cleans pantry & kitchen floors. Will went to Kingston with G Niles Sr. Went about those books but was again disapointed. No books at the express office. Muriel came up to iron the calico patches Herbert came too. Sent them home rejoicing with some patches. Hubert came too. Sent them home rejoicing with some patches and their Auntie Grace’s old bustle filled with apples. Arthur accompanies them home. Sat up reading till 1/2 past 10 Oclock pm. Maud ironed in the evening. �92 95 Sunday 14 January 1900 A snowy day but not cold. After the dishes are done Maud goes to Eveline’s to skate with Muriel & Hubert. V & A follow after I had dinner nearly ready when they return; they came up on the ice but the snow is fast covering the ice which will soon spoil the skating. All reading except Arthur who never reads anything. Arthur feeds his part. We get tea after dark and go to bed at 1/2 past nine Oclock after reading the War papers & "beside the Bonnie Brier Bush". A lonesome day wish Bob & Grace were here at home. Monday 15 January 1900 cloudy. looks like snow or rain. hazy & not very cold. James Michea died today of inflammation of bowels. Poor boy. he leaves a wife & five children. Arthur gone to school. Voltie working in shop on sleigh has it nearly done. Irene patched Arthurs pants. Arthur & great swearer, uses big oaths when outside the house. Will came over to borrow soap and boiler; boiler at Juniors. Will saw Bob and Grace on the Pierpoint. Will didn’t get his books yet. Maud pottering around today. Maud experimenting in the cake making. Arthur at school. �93 96 Tuesday 16 Jan 1900 A cloudy day looks like snow. I wash all the shirts and drawers for our men and hang them on the line. Voltie & Bob Reid go to the dance at the villiage with Bobs horse and Volties cutter and harness and we are more lonesome than ever. James Michea burried or laid in the vault today. 82 rigs in the funeral procession Arthur at school 1/2 day. Wednesday 17th 1900 Arose at 7 pm when just as we were getting breakfast. Voltie and Bob Reid returned from the dance at the villiage. After breakfast Bob & Voltie went to bed and slept till half past 11 Oclock. Wellie came up. I didnt do much work only tried to churn and butter wouldn’t come so turned the cream out into a pan and washed the churn. Arthur at school. Irene darned Arthurs mittens after dark. �94 97 Thursday 18 January 1900 Arose at 7 a.m. Weather changed to warm wind South and thawing all day. Set tubs under the eves & full of water in short time, cloudy and looks like rain. Think the snow will all go off again. Maud choped apples and beef for mincemeat pies. Voltie choped down one of the twin hickories on the flat for wood and then cut another small tree in cedars & from there went to Frank Woodmans to bargain for hay. He did not return till nearly one Oclock pm. We got an other dinner for Voltie. I was afraid he had walked up on the ice and droped through. no ice to walk on any where. Arthur at school. �95 Many a day has gone since then. When one day to Kingston I had been and as the Pierport was returning home and standing by her dock alone I heard a sigh and looking up what met my eye Old Geo McKenzie ghost I swear alone in the gangway standing there �96 PHOTOMOUNT PAMPHLET BINDER Manufactured by GAYLORD BROS, Inc. Syracuse, N. Y. Stockton, Calif. �97 �This document would not be possible without the editorial contributions of the following people: Ann Hopkinson, shashathree, carol ann, Ella Deering, MaryV, Judi , 2alina, Ben W. Brumfield, Giovanna Lim, Reagan MacMillan, Lisa Bremner, Sheila Hewett, and Queen’s University Archives � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Collection Subject The topic of the resource 19th and 20th Century Rural Ontario Diaries Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Courtesy of Queen's University Archives Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1887-1922 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Frontenac County, Wolfe Island, Ontario Table Of Contents A list of subunits of the resource. Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1887 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1888-1889 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1889-1897 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1890 March - June Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1893-1895 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1895-1899 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1896 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1897-1898 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1898 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1899 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1899-1900 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1900 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1902, 1906 parts of Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1902-1909 parts of Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1904-1905 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1907 & 1918 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1908-1919 parts of Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1911 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1913 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1913-1914 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1915-1916 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1916-1917 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1917-1918 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1918 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1921-1922 Language A language of the resource English Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1899-1900 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Courtesy of Queen's University Archives Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1899-1900 Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 19th & 20th Century, Frontenac County, Wolfe Island, Ontario Date Created Date of creation of the resource. August 30th, 1899 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Collection Medium The material or physical carrier of the resource. Typed Transcription UG Transcription Progress Scripto transcription progress Done transcribed https://ruraldiaries.lib.uoguelph.ca/transcribe/files/original/5716f0e665e0cb414426758cfb23e0c5.pdf 97e1831c1d856455f384769e3acd6b6f PDF Text Text Irene Dixon Bamford 1899 June-August, Diary Transcription 5034_4-1-9 �Metadata FromThePage export of 5034_4-1-9 from Irene Dixon Bamford made on 2026-02-11 14:35:16 UTC. itemTitle: June-August 1899 date: 1899 Title: 5034_4-1-9 Description: Item is a diary. Created On: 2024-01-11 17:32:12 UTC In Scope: true Uploaded Filename: 5034_4-1-9 �1 [File Folder] Irene Dixon Bamford Diary June-August 1899 [stamp] Queen’s University Archives Locator 5034.4 Box 1 File 9 �2 Been Read June - August 1899 �3 Reread ’76-’89 �4 Sunday 14 June 1899 A hot cloudless day am thinking of drouth [sic] but hope not. Wellie came up and stayed a while, lent him a Berralds and a boat. Grace and Maud went to Church & sunday school. Arthur stayed home. Had soiled his clothes so had to stay home. Evening Maud went to Mr Niles with a note for Wallace go to the express office for Grace. Most of the youngsters out this beautiful eve driving. Frank, Emma and Grace in one buggy. Wallace, Marnie Bolton and Minnie Woodman driving in W N’s buggy. Lewis, Joy & Mary Gordon in another. Bob Reid and Hattie Joslin in another. Will Robinson, Maud Gillespie & Lilly Woodman in another. Frank raced and drove by them all hollered and yelled, made more noise than a tribe of indians. I wrote a letter to Wells Sr just to say Grey Gillespie & Bessie Gibson out driving too also Perley Burnham and Hannah O’Brien. Monday 12 June A breezy hot day. I worked at the flowers nearly all forenoon. Maud at school. Wish Artemus was there too. To meddlesome by half unmannerly and noisy wants his own way about everything. I dont believe I like him very well but he helps feed boys and fill dirt boxes. �5 Wallace has gone over the river, think he has gone to Cape Vincent. �6 �7 I have to churn this afternoon. Churned and weed in garden. Wellie told me that his grandmother had lost the sight of one eye (right eye). Wallace came at eventime and brought the box of candy that Voltie had exported through from Buffalo but no picture yet. Grace went with Wall down to Franks and Artemus draged [sic] out the big rocker, fixed it up with cushions, and putting on his over coat, drew the chair in the doorway and with Tiny in his arms comfortably seated himself to the exclusion of any one passing in or out and was quite angry when Maud forced her way out. Telling her to go clear aroung to the other door and not bother him, and only this afternoon was much put out when Grace asked him to drive the horses into the pasture, refusing to go: at last when forced to go, like a baulky horse he went with fury both horses on the run dashed through the gate frightening the colt which jumped through the wire fence beside the gate and �8 tore a piece of skin completly off his neck leaving it on the wire fence which our young hero brought to the house. I think he’ll take a trip to the city Thursday and not come here again. Tuesday 13th June 1899 I walk over to see mother and about her blindness find them all right enough, mother reading with one eye and two pair of glasses. Rachel loaded to the brim with dirt about Bob Gaskin, poor old Rachel wonder will she ever possess common since [sic]. I think she is passed that period to old now to begin to learn any thing but filth. She rolls it like a sweet morsel under her tongue. I’m sorry she is not pure and clean to bad, to bad. Wednesday 14 June 1899 A warm day. I churn and make out 16 lbs of butter for market and dress two hens. Bill & Mary come over to go to Kingston tomorrow �9 Thursday June 15th June 1899 A fine morning arose at 7 AM. Maud drove to dock with Grace and Mary Winsmill in buggy. Bill caught a ride with Niles. Maud and I work hard all day preparing for company. Arthur drove to dock in evening, boat arived [sic] late. Grace came bringing Helen Watson for a weeks visit. Mary and Bill came back bringing nothing but again stay all night. A cool evening, rained some. Friday 16 June 1899 I churn and work in Garden. A fine day, plant more pot corn for hens to scratch out. Bill and Mary go over to Wills visiting because the wind blows so they cant cross, came back and crossed that night. �10 Saturday 17 June 1899 Grace cleans floors. I work in garden. Sunday 18 June 1899 In evening Grace takes Helen W for a drive to foot. A beautiful day, breezy from South (and come to Eveline’s). Grace, Helen Watson and Arthur went to Church and Sunday School. Irene worked around all forenoon & went down and looked at my garden and found that the hens have once again scratched up all the pop corn which Artie and I planted on Friday. Monday 19 June A very warm morning. Grace drove to ferry acompanied by Miss Helen Watson and they ate dinner with a Miss McCartha came back to Belles and stayed to tea and arived at home 10 pm. Will took Jen and Charley across the river to pick berries for Gloyds strawberries per box, rowed back and rove to the village with Rachel. R going to cook for Briggs. Wellie came up and cultivated bushes and potatoes, looked after the pigs. I work awhile in garden as usual. �11 19 June 99 Afternoon 5 pm been working all time since dinner. All the others taking an after dinner nap except noisy Arthur and I. A very slight thunder shower this morning but clears and the wind blowing strong breeze from the West. There I am in my bed room going fast asleep in chair. It blows so hard, one of the flower pots was blown from the stand. I sent a letter to Sr and one to Voltie. Hubert came for Vinegar and brought me a piece of factory cheese. Wellie came for the churn and gave him churn full of lettuce & lemons and a bottle of pickles. Hubert came early for butter for breakfast. Arthur pulled mustard. Maud went for wild strawberries. Wednesday 21 June 1899 A cool dry day, clouds come trooping up from the west covering all the sky. Wind blowing from the West. I churned and make 17 prints for market. Helen teaching Grace to do embroidery. �12 Thursday 22nd June 1899 A fine morning, arose at 4 put up the fowls, got breakfast and Helen Watson, Maud and Grace started for the dock enroute for Kingston. A circus in town. Arthur brought water, fed dogs, scrubed [sic] pantry and kitchen floors, then after dinner, Arthur hitched up Bess and we drove to Wellie’s to make a call. Arthur killed a hen for a pot pie. At night we milked the cows, fed the hogs and then Arthur hitched up Bess and drove to the dock for Grace and Maud. Grace came home bringing pea soup, candy and dates. Friday 23rd 1899 A fine day, thunder and lightening in the night, some rain; but not much. Grace sewed for herself making a shirt waist and a shirt for Arthur. Irene hoed and worked in garden. Sold Ruth Woodman a pound of butter 16. John Dixon and Jen came over and stayed all evening. John came for mother to go home with him but she says she will not go. Letters from Wells Sr, 2 from Voltie, 1 from Robert, one from Watson. �13 Saturday 24th June 1899 A bright clear warm day. Grace sewing for her grandmother. Sold a pound of butter to Wellie & 2 pounds of butter to Jen Woodman. We set cabbage and tomato plants. Maud went for strawberries only got a few, all dried up. Got to wash by the river, wish it would rain. Sent Mrs Woodman lettuce. Arthur doing all kinds of chores, good boy. Maud cleaned floors. 25 Sunday June 1899 Maud and Arthur went to Sunday school and church service. Grace dont go but takes a long nap two of them, brother John came back and ate supper with us. Said he put a quarter in the contribution box. �14 26 Monday June 1899 27 Tuesday June 1899 �15 28 Wednesday 1899 A fine day: after dinner Grace, Maud and Arthur drive up to the picking in Geo Woodmans Grove. It sprinkles quite a shower. They came home early, admittance for children under 13 to the dinner table 15 cents. Charley Dixon went to the table with 15 cents for his dinner but Charley Woodman drove him away because he didn’t have 25 cents. Charley Woodman! a good Christian hog. I have made a mistake in the date yesterday All the above transpired. To day Wednesday it rained all day. Eveline drove to Kingston through the rain. 29 June Thursday Grace gone to Kingston to market with butter 15 lbs. I had sold Eveline 1 lb and Samy’s folks 1 lb. I am not very well and go to bed. Maud and Arthur cleans up the house but I had visitors all the same. Mary Woodman,, Irene Hengie and her little daughter Hazel and her husband came and I got their dinner for them and enjoyed the visit in good faith - from here they went to Wills, found Jen gone to Kingston but paid their respect to their grandmother. �16 30 Friday 1899 1 July Saturday 1899 �17 2 July Sunday 1899 3 July Monday �18 7 July Tuesday 1899 Artimus and I drove up to Bells for Marjorie to come home with me and help milk the cows while Grace goes to Kingston to visit the Gaskins for a week. This is a queer old world any way. It keeps one on the [pump?] all the time to keep up the race for others, but I enjoy the drive, find every thing most beautiful all along the road, grain crops are fine. Drive around by John O’Briens arrived at Bells at 8 am. 5 July Wednesday A fine day. Grace preparing to go to Kingston to stay a week. �19 6 July Tuesday 1899 Arose at 1/2 past 4 this morning. Every thing in readiness for Grace to go to Kingston to be gone a week leaving me and the three youngsters. Marjorie is good tempered but I expect a good deal of sparring and picking at each other by Maud and Arthur. When Arthur goes to the dock for the groceries I go to Wellies and stay till Arhtur returns. Did not know but Mrs Watson would come but happy to know he didn’t come, sent 13 lbs to market of butter. 7 Friday July 1899 A very fine day but Arthur and Maud kicked over the traces first thing lowered Mauds temperature all right but Artie holds spite longer, but willing to help only finds it hard to bring so much water for the hogs so I help bring water from the river. Mail Whig Montreal Stx and Herald and a letter from Helen Watson. �20 July Saturday 1899 The girls clean the floors. A very hot day. I wish it would rain. George Williams drove in here this evening with Wellie and took old Jim horse away. He will get wet for it looks like rain and a fire fly in the window curtains. 9 July Sunday 1899 A very wet day and last night from 7pm till 2 am it thundered and lightened [sic] awfully chrash [sic] after crash of thunder accompanied with briliant flashes of lightning and then continued to rain all night. So we are never forgotten; in our dire distress for rain, it came pouring down in plenty filling boiler, tub, all the pails. What a saturating the Earth did get, now potatoes, corn and every garden will grow: a long lonesome Sunday, wood scarce and wet so burn a scuttle of coal. I read to the children Maud, Marjorie & Arthur �21 Monday 10 July 1899 A fine day after the rain. Maud done a big washing lines full of clothes. I hoed the garden and popcorn. Arthur & I set out cabbage plants till dark. The girls pick a bowl of berries for tea. Tuesday 11 July 1899 The girls done a great ironing and picked berries enough for 2 two quart cans. Our flowers are begining [sic] to bloom poppies, &c. Will working for Niles. Wellie working for Rattray. Evening mail a letter from Wells Sr, Devolson, Miss Kate Knapp a postal from Grace saying she is going to Ogdensburg Thursday a postal from Nellie Grey saying what a grand time Grace is having and how sweet she looks and how she takes the shine off the "Miss G’s" (Nellie ought to have said the Misses G) but better have not said any thing about it, it sounds foolish, silly. I sent Grace a letter from home. �22 Wednesday 12 July 1899 A fine morning. 5 minutes to six when I arose at nearly six. Maud & Marjorie finish ironing and pick berries. I hoe a few potatoes. John Coxall here to borrow a pig box. John told me that Frank Woodman’s cows - ten of them, he (John) drove out of our grain this morning and drove them into Franks pasture and shut Franks bars that Bob Reid had & sent left open when Bob drove out last night. I wrote Frank a note. Wellie "blowed" Frank up. Frank at dark was again driving his cows home from out the road. Will McDonel Sr came for 4 pigs, sold them for 11 dollars per pan. We going to buy feed for the others. We put all our cows in the stable to night. Thursday 1 July 1899 A bright breezy day arose at 1/2 past 5, called the youngsters. They turned the cows out the stable and milked them in the barnyard and then drove them into the pasture. They had been in pasture about ten minutes when Charley Dixon came over to say he had just driven old blue cow & the black one out of the grain. I gave Charley a boquet for the dinner table and told him to come back and get some berries. He came brining me three new laid eggs. Arhtur cleaned the pig pen which is horrible filthy. Fell and hurt my hip while pulling weeds for the pigs so I am very lame. Will went to bay for tobaco bought a lb of butter of me. Irene churned. Dont make much butter. �23 Friday 14 July 1899 Wellie came last night for the buggy and express order from Voltie, $16. Eveline is going to take it to Grace in Kingston for Grace to get the money for it to pay Rattray. We put the cows in the stable again last night. I didn’t sleep any last night in such pain from falling couldn’t rest; but I went down cellar this morning and skimmed the milk and washed the pans and got the breakfast. Arthur don’t like to work only as he is ruged and pooped; The blue cow in the grain again and he wouldn’t have known it if John Coxall had not called to him, and after he has been told so many times to watch that cow. Marjorie is cleaning pantry floor and the steps. Wess didn’t come and I’m so glad and so is Maud. We never want to see him again. �24 Saturday 15 July 1899 1899 It rained at evening timie and all night but caught no water for the tub and boiler were not set out. Sunday 16 July 1899 Grace was going to drive up with Marjorie but the rain prevented. �25 Monday 17 July 1899 Grace after picking a few quarts of berries for Belle drove up to Bills with Marjorie and returned bringing Grace home with her. Tuesday (1899) 18 July �26 Wednesday 19 July 1899 Thursday 20th July 1899 Arthur drove to dock this morning with Grace only carrying 12 lbs of butter. A warm cloudy lonesome day. Two youngsters, Arthur & Gracie both troublesome and noisy: if only Arthur here it would be all right but Grace is a terror. After the work was all done I took the hoe and went to the tater patch to hoe taters. �27 Friday 21 July 1899 A fine breezy day, wind South. Grace washes a few things and I hoe potatoes. Evening Mail Whig, Herrald, & Saturday Evening Post. A letter from Voltie and one from John with a letter from Mrs Lindley and a few lines from Flora. Grace received a letter from Bob of course. I was so tired couldn’t read much but went to bed and slept soundly all night. Saturday 22 July 1899 A fine day. Grace cleaned floors while I churned and made butter prints 2 for Mrs Woodman and one for Eveline. after working around the house went to hoe potatoes and hoe till supper time. And go to bed tired enough after washing dishes. �28 Sunday 23rd July 1899 A clear cool day, wind North and breezy. Arthur and I alone nearly all day. Grace drives to Bells for Maud taking Gracie with her, came back towards night bringing Gracie back with her and Beatrice also. Charley Dixon came over for ice cream freezer and ice. I had no freezer but he got a pail of ice. Arthur and I picked a few raspberries for tea. Grace came early bringing Maud, Beatrice and wee Grace came back again. Mrs Niles came and Inez & Lulu Niles, a homely young one of Geo Niles. Wallace came to & he and Grace went over to Wills for Ice Cream. Monday 24 July 1889 Grace sick this morning of indigestion. After yesterdays Debauch of driving up to Belles through the heat, eating hot yeast bread and honey with ice cream at Wills & then must be so flat as too smoke a whiff or two of Well’s dirty cigar. I have read somewhere that sickness is a disgrace and I believe it. I and Maud done big washing and hung them early on the line, cooked, hoed & cleaning. Sold Frank Woodman a pound of butter but Geo Snub but no money forthcoming. I may never get it; Will Dixon went to Millens bay this morning. Let Arthur go with him didn’t get back till 1/2 past 10 am. Will �29 a jug of cider of H Dodge and crackers and cloth. Wellie is drawing in Wells hay. Grace abed all day, a very hot day. Tuesday 25 July 1899 A breezy day from the south. Wellie here plowing out potatoes. Arthur pairs greened the potatoes and cut burrdocks but he dont like to work but likes pan cakes and all the green apples he can get. Well’s mad, says "what the deval [sic] do you keep so many young ones around for, send three of them home and lower your family expenses about half. I guess he is right. Grace is better and is sewing making Irene a waist. Irene washed more clothes and hung them on the line. Maud done big ironing and cleaned up the parlor &c. My flower garden is fine. �30 Wednesday 26 July 1899 Another hot day. Sold John Coxall one pound butter for Samy’s folks 23 cts, churned and made 8 lbs butter for market. So warm could with difficulty make it out, wish it would rain. Hand cleaned the chamber. Arthur lazy ickle boy a nuisance, wants to eat all the time between meals. Grace had to hide the cookies. I wish he was in Kingston, wont have him around another summer if all is right. I dont believe I mean what I write about Artimus poor little imp got no mother, pretty good boy after all only sometimes I loose [sic] patience. Thursday 27 July 1899 A very warm day. Artemus drives to dock with Grace, Beatrice, Maud & I work around all day (& also Arthur) preparing to receive our city guest Mrs Gaskin. I and Arthur clean cellar and platform door, steps to cellar more and arange [sic] all the flowers. Arthur drove for them. Grace came limping. The lovely Mrs G Well how do I like her? Will �31 tell you much better at the close of her visit. Watson & Ben came too but stoped [sic] all night at Wells. Friday 28 July 1899 Grace hung the hammock between the trees and our guest with book in hand comfortably took to the hamock [sic] and read and slept to her hearts satisfaction after dinner. Mrs G and Grace wandered off down among the raspberries, came back with a bowl of berries for tea and then drove to the foot of Island, came back at bed time. Wesley Watson & Ben came this morning and his gabble gabber is going all day. Ben is sick, ate so much to fill himself up. Saturday 29 July 1899 A fine day. After breakfast Grace drove to village with Miss G taking Beatrice & Gracie home and after posting letters drove back to Bells where they stay till 5 pm then drove home bringing Irene with them for an indefinite length of visit. Wallace came in evening and gets acquainted very fast with Miss G. I think when she calls me in the parlor and tells me that Will Niles is putting his arm around her. Watson and Ben gone to bed. Ben pretty sick. Asked Watson what he drags that young kid around for �32 Sunday 30th July 1899 A fine day. After breakfast Maud and Irene go to Sunday school. Grace and Miss G go to church service. Watson tries to get passage for himself and Ben with the preacher but fails. After dinner Grace and Miss G drive to English church service taking Ben and Watson’s bag with them while Watson gets a ride to the church with Percy Gillespie and from church gets a passage with his Reverence (Mr Dibbs) who drops Watson, Bell and the bag at Bells. There they stay all night. Ben was sick all the time even when he left here. But I enjoyed Watson brief visit with his Biology and Botany. Wish I was the happy possessor of the Botany, the price of the book one dollar. Lazy old Watson can have it but not I. Wallace here again this evening and Will & Charley. Miss G cant sing, cant play. Watson raked. Verona people bald headed, low immoral beastly set so said Wess. �33 Monday 31 July 1899 A fine day. Wellie reaping & binding oats. A novel sight for Miss G never before having seen any farming done. Wellie wouldn’t stay to dinner nor to supper. Aunt Ruth sends Viola for two lbs of butter. Charley Woodman bought 1 lb butter, 23 per lb, dont have to take butter to market any more - sell it all to our neighbors dont make much anyway. Grace, Miss G and Wallace make ice cream in the cellar, old blue tail gets in the grain so many times I cant keep a record - keeps Arthur on the pimp. Grace invited Shell and Jen Gordon Wall and Jack to ice cream. Wall came of course but Shell scorned the invitation by going instead to visit Mary Farr Joslin all right Shell Niles. Jen Dixon sends over Charley for butter - one lb and send a two dollar bill. We couldnt change so didn’t get pay for butter. �34 Tuesday. A fine day for the 1st of August 1899. Wellie finish binding oats in the field, he came in and I introduced my son Wells to Miss G. After breakfast, Grace & her guest visit Eveline and stay to dinner. Jr eats his dinner here. After they return at 1 oclock pm by invitation. They drive up to Wm G Woodmans for a visit where Miss G has a delightful time for Wm & Mary make the visit very entertaining by a description of Watson’s bride, the marriage and the brides trosseau and also told Grace that Watson has obtained the Marysville school for the remainder of the year. If true there will be a sequal [sic]. They had for tea hot rolls and honey. Mrs George Woodman very sick. Wednesday 2nd August 1899 A cool day but bright and clear. Weather very dry, roads terrible for dust, pastures brown and bare enough every cow in the country going dry. Will Young ones carry water from river now every day. Wellie working home to day. After dinner Grace and Miss G driver over to Breakeys to deliver a letter to a youong lady boarder named Miss Watson which had been given to and an �35 opened by Maud by mistake. from Breakeys, they drove to Montgomerys for an afternoon visit. They return at sunsest and without ever coming into the house go to call on the Niles family. They found Shell and Gordon on the river in skiff where they proceeded to remain till "we sins" returned home accompanied by Wallace and Jim Maloney who stayed till 10 oclock pm, and of course we have to get up early tomorrow morning, boat leaves our doct at 1/2 past 5 am. Viola here for butter churn and send Maud with it. Sam pays for Franks butter that Frank got a week ago. Thursday 3rd August 1899 A fine day. Get up at 4 and hustle, a heavy fog envelopes every surounding [sic] object like a shroud. But Arthur gets out and hunts around for Bess to drive to dock at last with bundle and baggage and great bunches of flowers. Arthur drives away with them, good bye. I’m glad you are gone. This has been a tough week for me but I’m alive and kicking all right: haven’t been so happy and free in a week. Grace didnt’ want to go to town today but was afraid �36 to go for binding twine bought 4 more for Voltie and two for Wellie which makes ten balls altogether all paid for with Volties money. Mab is a good girl enough but crude, unrefined, no accomplishments whatever, dont play piano, dont sing, not artistic by way of any kind of crochet, knitting, needle work, no painting or drawing, cant dance but at same time would like to assume a great many high bred airs. No substantial solid reading, only novels, but a good common neat home keeper and as near as I can learn this is the first time she ever was away from home. For all that Mabel is a good girl but is sadly deficient in fine training. There is nothing like good books which elevate the mind with a certain amount of travel for a girl and again a determined persistence in self culture which certainly will work wonders by unfolding the mind to the beauties of art and especialy nature in all varied forms for our heroin has not even a common delight in flowers, that great source of pleasure to most common minds. But how i have anyilzed [sic], criticised. I ought to be ashamed of my �37 self but who will ever see my old diary. They were all so very good to Grace when she visited in Kingston. Oh well, I like her herself. Tis night again. Grace is home once more. The Wormwiths came down this pm to board at Brekey’s. Twelve boarders there now. Friday 4 August 1899 A fine day. Grace done a big washing. Wellie binding wheat till 4 pm, then went home. Arthur setting up bundles. Grace towards night fall drives over to Breakeys. Brings Miss May Wormwith home with her. I am pleased to see her. Have not seen May in long time: find her as pretty and dainty and refined as she was two years years [sic] ago. The little aristocrat. Wallace put in an appearance and though acquainted with May seemed as abashed and awed by her presence as though she was a princess. Well our guest stayed till 10 pm. When Grace drove back to Breakeys with her accompanied by Wallace to drive the horse home for Grace. Grace promising to take May to church �38 Sunday. I churned a few lbs butter. Voltie wrote that those pictures are now at the Cape. Saturday 5 August 1899 A fine day except the west wind is blowing a gale. When just as we had our Saturday work all done and Arthur setting up wheat, Belle drove down home with old Dan hitched to the double buggy bringing Charles Jr, Gracie B & Cathline going to stay all night. Sold Eveline a pound of butter. Eveline sent cucumbers and eggs. Eveline good girl. Jen sent Sylvia down for a pound of butter and to accomodate her. I churned after dark and sent Maud with it all right 23 cents. At last all abed and asleep then Charles Jr, the night walker all unconscious of himself came and crept into bed with me and never awoke till 9 o’clock am and was much surprised to find himself in a strange bed. PS We had our first mess of green corn to day. Sunday 6 August 1899 A hot day, a scorcher. Arose at six am and get breakfast for nine all told. No one offers or makes a move about going to church. �39 to day. Oh no but Graces new hammock is put out for the pleasure of the Kidds and it gets a racket of course: dirty from soiled clothes and dirty shoes with broken cords and drawn warp. Oh it is a pretty looking thing now. There never yet was anything around this home but had to with stand a siege for of course every thing here is public, for the remark was made that Grace bought that hammock for the "quality" and of course the quality used it and now - well are right. Well after dinner. Bell became drowsy and went to bed. Grace went to bed and I dozed in the rocking chair on the veranda while the quality were quarelling and destroying the hammock, 5 at once. While I was comfortably sleeping in chair. A little sprite said "aunt rend mama wants to get some butter milk to make a Johny cake and looking up saw it was Lottie Dixon and impatient at being disturbed and so sleepy. I requested Irene to go down cellar, get the buttermilk telling her where she would find the crock on the back shelf and to �40 give Lottie all the buttermilk there was in the jar so Irene went down and took the cream jar from the table and emptied all the cream in to Lotties pail, which she took home at once to make Johny cake, when I as usual went to skim milk. I found the cream pot empty and by inquiring about the affair found that Irene had done the buisness [sic] and I immediately sent Irene over for my cream and behold Jen sent me back a 1/2 teacup full having used the rest for cooking purposes, cakes, cookies, Johnie cakes &c. Belle started for home about 4 oclock bag and bandbox leaving Irene behind. Wills folks mad because Bell didn’t carry her grandmother up home with her. After Bell was gone Grace drove over to Breakeys and took May out for a drive down the island and back again. May was coming home with Grace to stay all night while I was washing the milk pails who should present himself but his reverence Mr Weese, then I cast all care and work aside to talk with his reverence till 10 pm when he took leave for Mrs Niles to stay �41 over night. Grace drove in just as the preacher left and so we go to bed. Grace tomorrow going to the villiage [sic] for groceries for Wellie is going to draw in grain and build stack Tuesday Monday 4 August 1899 A dry day, wind North. Arose at 1/2 past 5 am found old bue and 5 of Franks horses in Volties oats. Set Prince on the cow chased her around and around the fence and away up by the church and there she stood still and let the dogs bark all they wanted too till Arthur went with Rachel and drove her out into the pasture. Then Grace sent him for Bess to drive to the villiage while Bob Reid was driving Franks horses out the grain. And Arthur thinking Bess was in the grain too, caught Frank’s old mare Doll and put her in the stable and gave her hay and oats, and discovered his mistake when he went to put the harness on her. Bob Reid called �42 to him when he was leading old doll out the oats, asking him what he was leading old doll for. But Arthur said it was Bell so Bob said no more. Arthur has just come back from Wellie’s where he has been to set up grain. Wellie came bringing the binder and waggon. Wellie is going to draw oats this pm. Maud and Irene gone over to Wills for our gobbler. He broke loose again. I dont know what proffit in trying to raise turkeys, from one gobbler and two hen turkeys we have got one little turkey. A woman is fishing here in front of the house sitting in a skiff & guess it is Alvira Burnham by the rig she wears and old tattered straw hat. Maud, Irene, Arthur and I do all the chores. Grace come at sundown could not get beef or scarely any thing close Tuesday 8 Auguast 1899 No rain, dry and cool. The face of nature is perishing for water. No rain of any account since 9th of July. Wellie drawing and stacking oats and wheat clared the field of all the bound grain. John Babcock helping him. After dinner �43 I walk over to Wills to see grandmother, find Wellington and Perley repairing the bridge where Rob Ranons had met with, what nearly proved to be a serious affair by his fast driven team breaking through plank, upsetting the waggon, throwing Bob one way and one of his horses falling down in harness, but after all done only badly shaken up. Found Mrs Niles at Jens sewing; making the little girls dresses. Jen & Mrs Niles have learned the art of cutting and making garments of a Mrs Haskins a "widdy" from Gananoque who is traveling around giving instruction in the art. A good thing for Jen, price $2.00 dollars with a chart. Stayed to tea: had taken Irene with me, found Inez N. There also at sundown Maud and Arthur came and so the noise which had been tremendious all afternoon, now became an uproar, a perfect pandemonium. Several vehicles passing up and down the road. Grace among the rest with Miss Wormworth from Breakeys going to Bamfords to visit for - dont know how long time. Wolfe Island has become a very unsafe place to live in especialy [sic} �44 in summer time, from invaders, city town. I walk home in evening, cool dusky and quiet, with millions of stars looking down upon this old dried parched earth with uncommon brilliance. Letters none only the Whig & Saturday Evening Post. Wednesday 9 August 1899 Clear cloudless day, wind North and pleasantly cool. Wellie & Babcock working at Wellies. Mrs Wormwith lies in bed quite late, consequently has breakfast alone and then while embroidering a patch swings in the hammock. Our poor little flower garden all dried up, sweet peas, phlox, asters, poppies. The day passes away like its uneventful predecessors excepting the children bring few pails water to water the flowers and Grace and May go driving and call upon Mrs William McDonel Jr of the Cheese factory, after which the return gossip awhile and retire for the night. Tomorrow morning we must arise at 4. Grace going to Kingston. John Coxal here after dark for a pound of butter. �45 Thursday 10th 1899 Aug A beautiful cool day. Arthur drove to dock with Grace. Miss Wormwith staying with me and proves to be a very companionable young lady and accomplished and gifted. Music painting, drawing are among the few acqirements a good litterary scholar. I work around all day cookign and doing general house work. Arthur turns the cows in ealry. Maud is going to drive to dock and is in hurry to get there. So they are going to get the milking done in time but old blue won’t stand so they chae the poor old beast all around the cow yard and then she comes through the gate and goes dashing through the front yard and they succeed at last in putting here in stable but will not put his head in the stancion: after they had whaled her long enough. I ordered them to turn her bck in pasture and let her go which �46 they did. When Grace came old blue was as docile as a lamb and gave nerly a pail full of milk. Miss W and Maud drove to dock for Grace. Grace paid Loucks $9 dollars for V & took the note. Laura John is come down from Woodstock to visit her uncle Almon. Suppose she will visit us next. Friday 17 August 1899 A day of extreme heat. It is so sultry dont feel like work. Men surely must suffer in the harvest field to day. Wellie is working for Geo Rattray. I churn about six lbs of good butter. Grace makes ice cream. Dr Stewart drove down to visit Miss Wormworth and stays to tea. Mrs Niles came accompanied by Miss Irwin, dirty and barefooted they stay for ice cream too. Dr S took the girls driving then and goes back to the villiage after dark. Mrs N should train that young daughter of hers to better manners or leave her at �47 home. After Grace & May return from their drive with Dr Stewart they go partly home with Mrs N through weeds and stuble. [sic] Grace requesting Inez next time she came down to wear shoes and stockings. May replying that she wanted to only "Ma was so darned stinking proud she wouldnt let her". Saturday 12 August 1899 Wellie binding oats here to day. A hot dry day, wind South. We all work steady and hard enough all day, except May who reads nearly all day. Arthur, Maude & Irene shock oats till the heat drives them homeward. The drought is a horror. Wellie says the boys are going this evening to cut peas by moon light, Will Robinson, John Babcock, Frank W and Bob Reid. I gave Wellie a lunch at 5 pm. Viola came for butter and paid 40 cents. Bernard came on his wheel. Joh Coxall came for butter. Wellie came for butter and then Will R & John Babcock came to cut peas but so dark cant see so John Coxall �48 entertains the company till 10 oclock when each take their butter and go home. Im sure I never saw May Wormworth laugh so much, as at John Coxall’s performance and so ends Saturday 12 Aug 1899 and we all go bed. Sunday 13th Aug 1899 A clear dry day. Grace and May go to church, go around the road by Samys. John Coxall runs out the gate dressed in a new suit and walks to church within them. Next thing after dinner, Grace & May drive to the English church and by the time I get the work done and dishes washed back they come again bringing Lill Runion with them. Miss Quinn having rode down with Bernard Morgan from the villiage as far as the english church where Bernard espied our rig and deposited Miss Quinn in our buggy till church service was closed. Well after supper Grace drives over to Breakeys with Miss Wormworth her visit here for the season being ended. Lill went also and after the dishes are washed and milking done, I get breathing time of an hour or �49 So, having worked hard all day think Ill not wait for Grace, but guess I go to bed when in wheels Bernard with Lills valise strapped to his bycicle [sic] and is here talking Regiopolis a whole hour before Grace and Lill return when they adjourn to the parlor to drum on piano and haw haw and tee hee till 11 pm when Bernard takes leave Monday 14 Aug 1899 Wind North, dry cool, no rain or any sign of rain. The earth brown, garden all dried up. Wellie binding oats. Hubert & Arthur setting up oats. Wellie wouldn’t stay to dinner. We had sucotash. Lill reads, sleeps, eats and thumps on piano. I churn this morning before breakfast. Grace up stairs taking a nap. Lill in hammock. Wellie after noon gets Arthur & Maud and Grace all out setting up oats. Maud �50 mad because she has to go. Irene dont want to go either. They say they’ll wear their shoes all out, and think so too. Arthur works like a hero. Wellie finishes binding for this year and summer 1899 and puts the binder in the machine house and then Wellie and Arthur set up all the oats in both fields which takes till after dark. Vill been working for Niles all day calls here on his way home. Piano drumming makes me tired. Dont believe I like music any more tis like an old song - worn out. Tuesday 15 Aug 1899 Another dry hot day. Wind North. Wellie working for Geo Rattray and affected with a tormenting great boil on his leg. Will worked half day for Niles and then rowed in Niles boat across the river looking for those pictures which makes 10 times we have expected to see them landed on this shore. I have no hopes of seeing them now. Grace and Lill went with him. Lon Dodge was going to the Cape �51 last night. Will and Grace came back as usual. Dodge found the freight house closed. Offered Will $1.25 to go to Cape Vincent. Cant go for he working for "by tunder" and Wall gone rowing one of Halliday’s boarders. Will brought cider and went back for 2 gallons more. Wellie going to have a moonlight bee cutting peas. Nobody came to the bee but Will & Wellie. Frank couldnt come his wife sick got hay fever. John Coxall says "Carty’s wife sick alle com" - "Franks wife sick allee com - no good". Evening visitors, Mr Wormworth, Miss Wormworth, Mr C Gill & Bernard Morgan and of course Miss Quinn. A great contrast between Miss W & Miss Q, Miss W below the medium size, dark, plump, black eyes & and hair, brilliant acomplished, quiet manners, Lady like, Warmly attached to her few friends, retiring not putting herself forward. Miss Q is tall, thin, very fine complection if her health was good, abundant chestnut colored hair, free in manner to familiarity making friends with every one, mind shallow, no depth. Eyes �52 pale blue and weak. Poor Lill, good girl works hard in Crumley’s store till she looks like a ghost, accomplished needle woman at dressmaking, millinery, mantle making &c, wants to marry but bestows her attentions equally upon Bob Ramons or Bernard Morgan or whatever young man happens around. We got supper for Will, Wellie, Charley, Arthur, Lill and myself, Maud & Irene. The Wormworths and Gills & Bernhard went home by moonlight on their wheels, long before our midnight meal of thanks for the [phrots?] of Northern Wave. Enclosed in Graces letter Trent sends Bob a note. Wednesday 16 Aug 1899 No rain, dry hot scorching weather. The inhabitants along the shore of old St Lawrence ought to feel gratefull that they are privileged to look upon its vast volume of water as it unceasingly flows onward day after day, idle tourists in fishing boats lazily drift drift [sic] up and down along the shore. Lill and Irene gone down to Wellies visiting and sewing. Grace washing. Im roasting a hen for dinner. Wellie cutting peas. Little colt got cut in barbed wire yesterday, poor thing �53 Wells Jr will not stay to dinner goes home: has so many hogs to feed: we prepared good dinner roast fowl, potatoes, gravy, boiled corn on cob, rice with cream and egg, with white frosting buns & butter cookies. Lill dressed in her bathing suit goes bathing along with Arthur, Maud and Irene H. Lill (poor Lill) looks like a "shite poke" or mud hen if she dont get some fat on those bones of hers whe will not stay on earth long time. Grace took a long nap after dinner, While Lill sat with me on veranda and told me how the young men admire her beauty, how one young man told some other young man, that Miss Quinn is the best looking girl he ever saw. After tea Grace takes Lill out for a drive to the foot of the Island and I write letters to Voltie and his father. �54 Thursday 17 Aug 1899 Another day of blazing heat, a scorcher. Grace, Lill and Arthur embark aboard the Pierpont. Lill going to stop at Halliday’s which leaves Maud, Irene Jr & Irene Sr at home. Maud drove the trio to the steamboat and then we fed hogs bringing part of the drink from the river. Irene Sr milked 2 cows, Irene Jr one & Maud one. The flies torment the cows by thousands. I milk 3 cows at evening. Grace came home bringing no one with her for a wonder except Arthur. Wellie went to Kingston to day for first time this summer. Friday 18 Aug 1899 A dry hot day, wind south. Will working for Niles. Grace cuts and makes June’s cape: my shoes are to small. I patch Irenes dress and apron, she is going home tomorrow. I patched her apron in twenty places and then more holes not �55 Sylvia Woodman came for butter one lb, dirtiest butter cloth ever saw, looks as though Samuel Roswell had moped [sic] the floor with it. Mail Whig, Herrald, Ladies World letter from Sr, one from V, none from _ A postal from WFW saying he is at Otaway Normal school. Saturday 19 Aug 1899 Another dry scorching day. I work all fore noon wash some clothes, churn &c. After dinner Arthur, Irene and I drive Bess to Bells cant drive fast, so very hot with scarcely any air stiring, find every farmer out working at the harvest which is a bountiful one this year, some reaping, some reaping & binding, some drawing and stacking, some cutting peas (a heavy crop this year), one man was plowing through ground dry as powder. Leaves are dropping off trees and drying up. Henesey’s orchard all drying up but the grain harvest is grand every where. Arrived at Bells about 1/2 past 3 pm, found Bell and children well and very scantily �56 attired on account of heat. 3 hired men working at Charleys harvest and and [sic] he off rowing his mothers old boarders when like a man he ought to be at home tending to his work. Old Aunt Margaret cant walk a step nor lift a hand but sits propped up in chair like a dead body groaning with pain, and keeping boarders yelling out her household orders in that high pitched squeaky voice of hers "There fly around now", "Pare these apples", "Come bring that water here see what these hired girls are doing . They aint doin a thing..Aunt Mary Saunders says she wishes Margaret would die and get along out of the world before she (Aunt Mary) goes home to Buffalo and then all this turmolt and bedlam about boarders would stop and her grasping avericious hogishness would end for this world any way. Well has staid till after sun set and drove home by moonlight arriving at 10 pm, found the family of 2 up (Grace and Maud) and Jen here. We met and past six rigs coming down one lighted bycicle and passed by Geo Rattrays new steam thresher drawn by 8 �57 A hot dry day, hottest of the season, thermometer 99 in shade, the smoke and heat is suffocating. We scarcely light a fire all day no [raind?] not a [grehpys?]. Oh the heat is intense, guess I’ll go down cellar and cool. Bernard came for butter 2 lbs at 25 cts per lb. Grace and the youngones were just going to drive out for a breath of cool evening air when BM drove in so while I was getting the butter, Grace drove with Bernard and Maud and Arthur drove after them with Beas Monday 21 Aug 1899 Hot dry but breezy fro South. Barometer falling past change. Wellie here drawing and stacking. Babcock helping him. Maud went to school this morning. A powerful wind blowing for an hour or more, kicks up a terrible dust all over the country for two hours or more scattering apples but sand �58 Tuesday 22 Aug 1899 A hot dry day, no rain for a long time. Grace done a big washing, lines full. Grace, Maud and Arthur bring part of the water last night. yesterdays and blew the peas away over in Franks pasture and Wellie & Babcock are drawing and stacking every thing to day finished at 4 pm, harvesting all done. Wednesday 23rd Aug 1899 Hot dry day. Babcock came up after dinner for buggy. Eveline going to the villiage [sic] for groceries. Expect the threshers there on Saturday. Muriel and Clyde came up to stay all after noon till Eveline’s return. Arthur goes down and stays with Hubert to watch cows. Eveline come back at 8 pm and brings me a letter from Belle which is an eye opener surely �59 Thursday 24 Aug 1899 A cloudy morning arose at 4. Grace going to drive to the villiage and Hattie & Laura meets her at the road and goes with her. The great Cathoic pickine at the villiage to day. Grace goes across to the city and sends down the groceries for the threshers dinner Saturday and Phillips sends down the coal stove at last & Wellie drives over to it and he and Babcock puts it together as well as they know how but so much fixing it. Cloudy in morning but clears. Well Grace comes home at three am Friday morning leaving Hat and Lorie at the road wher e she picked them up in the morning. Friday 25 Aug 1899 A scorcher of a day, no rain but dry and hot. We expected the thresher here tomorrow and have cooked beef and stewed pumpkin for pies but Arthur came back from Wellies and said the machine has broken down, smashed the Concave and have to go for repairs so not be here tomorrow. Grace ironing and putting up the curtains ironed all day. I churned. �60 Saturday 26 Aug 1899 A dry hot day. Wind south. We work all fore noon like dickens. After dinner Grace hitches up Bess and drives once to Henrys Hallidays for Miss Anna Chapman (one of Hallidays Boarders) who is going to visit. Belle and Grace is requested to come up and help entertain the young Lady from Washington D.C. Oh- I’m angry. Grace is always going and entertaining. Oh for the good old days that are gone forever. George, Wellie & KWM came and finished putting the coal stove together. Will said he has been acro? Sunday 27 Aug 1899 The day hot dry and lonesome. Maud, Arthur and I are alone all day except Frank Bamford stoped here for a few minutes on his way home from JN’s. Maud went to Church and sabath school. Grace returned home just after dark. She would have come earlier but she drove in to Mrs Hallidays with Miss Chapman and staid to tea and ice cream. Grace brought a letter from Voltie and the Saturday post which she brought from the villiage. We were just going to bed when Will, Jen and Charley came. I suppose they came over to see the new stove says she was 40 cans of fruit. �61 Monday 28 Aug 1899 The day intensly [sic] hot wind North, no rain yet; all vegetation near dead and dried up. Maud at school. Irene churns. Wellie at Dignams threshing. Cattle wading in the river and standing to their backs nearly all day. So hot Muriel came home from school at 1/2 past 2 pm, not very well; been eating black cherries. We expected the threshing machine here to day or this afternoon but it did not come. (continued from this page in Book #3-18 Tuesday 29 Aug 1899 A hot dry scarcly [sic] a breath of air stirring. Sent Arthur to Wellies to learn when the machine would set up. couldn’t tell our beef not very good or enough of it for the men. Arthur and Hattie ran down two hens and chopped of their heads. Irene scalded and striped off their feathers in double quick time - when dissecting them for the dinner pot found them full of eggs. Two ready for lay so packed them with the others for winter. The machine came limbering along after dinner and all hands here so busy �62 [back cover with seal\ Red Rope Magazine Binder Manufactured by Gaylord Bros. Inc. Syracuse, N.Y. Stockton, Calif. �63 �This document would not be possible without the editorial contributions of the following people: Ann Hopkinson, Eric Irvine, MaryV, carol ann, and Queen’s University Archives � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Collection Subject The topic of the resource 19th and 20th Century Rural Ontario Diaries Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Courtesy of Queen's University Archives Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1887-1922 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Frontenac County, Wolfe Island, Ontario Table Of Contents A list of subunits of the resource. Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1887 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1888-1889 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1889-1897 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1890 March - June Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1893-1895 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1895-1899 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1896 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1897-1898 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1898 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1899 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1899-1900 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1900 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1902, 1906 parts of Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1902-1909 parts of Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1904-1905 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1907 & 1918 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1908-1919 parts of Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1911 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1913 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1913-1914 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1915-1916 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1916-1917 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1917-1918 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1918 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1921-1922 Language A language of the resource English Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1899 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Courtesy of Queen's University Archives Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1899 Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 19th Century, Frontenac County, Wolfe Island, Ontario Date Created Date of creation of the resource. June 14th, 1899 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Collection Medium The material or physical carrier of the resource. Typed Transcription UG Transcription Progress Scripto transcription progress Done transcribed https://ruraldiaries.lib.uoguelph.ca/transcribe/files/original/00e81ffade486a57f5d93fa7655b2f04.pdf 6610b90732c72aeb771ab1a373b897a2 PDF Text Text Irene Dixon Bamford 1898, Diary Transcription 5034_4-1-8 �Metadata FromThePage export of 5034_4-1-8 from Irene Dixon Bamford made on 2026-02-11 14:35:15 UTC. itemTitle: April-October 1898 date: 1898 Title: 5034_4-1-8 Description: Item is a diary. Created On: 2024-01-11 17:31:48 UTC In Scope: true Uploaded Filename: 5034_4-1-8 �1 [file folder titles/dates] Irene Dixon Bamford Diary April-October 1898 [Queens date stamp] Queen’s University Archives Locator 5034.4 Box 1 File 8 �2 B - read April - October 1898 �3 �4 5 Tuesday 5 April 1898 A raw chilly day. Rachel came over to get a letter indited to Mrs Hill Lafargeville. Did not want to write it. Finally consented but posponed [sic] it till tomorrow R stayed to tea. Maud went to post office Returned letter to Sr. and newspapers from [?] and the Whig. 6 April Wednesday 1898 A chilly morning. Wind N.W. Grace has a boil on her arm. Maud went to School. Teachers are going home tomorrow for Easter hollidays [sic]. Devolson drove over for grandmother. This is the first time she has been here in two years. Volty arranged his pig pen and put the pigs in two seperate pens and after dinner plowed. A chilly evening. Maud got a half pail of sap from the trees. I wrote a letter for Rachel to Mattie Smith Hill. �5 Thursday April 7 1898. A fine spring day. Wind N.W. Volty drove to dock with Grace, six doz. eggs for market and 5 doz for Eveline. Volty plowing between here and Uncle Sam’s. Maude an industrious little girl all day Irene cooked and washed dishes. Maud went to the dock with Volty this evening. Will and Charley went to the nets found one perch which they put back in the river. V ran the net this morning and got two perch which I cooked for dinner. George Niles went away to day. V brought Mart and Geo Horn’s photoes [sic] from the boat. Evening Grand mother telling ghost and witch stories to Will, Charlie, Voltie and Maud. �6 Friday 8 April 1898 A very fine day froze last night. I work all day at cooking & washing dishes. Wm Willmill and Mary came and stopped at Evelines. Wolmill came here after stoping at Will Dixon’s. came upon the road and talked with the boys where they were blowing. Granny reading all day; after dinner Maud went to Wills visiting stay till mail time: A letter from Sr and one from Mart to senior and two from the Rathburn Co. Frank, Will and Voltie playing cornets in kitchen, a great imprvement since last fall (Charlie here too Jim and Wall were here also. fire in coal stove gone out this morning �7 Saturday 9th April 1898 A beautiful spring day. Voltie plowed till 3 Oclock. Will came over and they went to Marysville to band practice. Frank and Will Robertson drove up to the village. Will going home for Easter. Wells Jr came up to get blacksmith done. We have maple syrup for supper which I expect will be the last of the season. V carried 3 doz eggs to the village. This is a poor pen. Sunday Monday 11 April 1898 A beautiful spring day. Volty finished plowing the big field. Maud and I sowed cabbage and two kinds of lettuce, cooked and done house work. Muriel and Hubert came up and brought butter, dutch cheese and 4 pans. Volty & Wallace go spearing fish in evening. Frank and Will Robertson here the eve. Maud went to Wills for yeast 10 delay and V and Wall not come guess I go to bed. �8 Sunday 10 April 1898 Made a mistake in writing. Mondays work for Sunday. Sunday a beautiful warm day. After dinner Maud and I go to the cedars to look for may flowers when I return. I am very tired so li down while Maud and Flora get the tea. Will goes over to L Dodges for corn comes home at sunset all night. Monday 11 April 1898 �9 Tuesday 12 April 1898 A fine day, warm day. V cultivated field for wheat. Will run his nets got fish. We had fish for dinner. V and Wallace speared the biggest ell [sic] measured over a yard. Grannie finished reading the Mountain mystery. Rachel went to V visiting. Leo’s Border came called here on his way to Spaffords from no one knows where, hes been missing for a time. Maud and Flora went to the snow woods for flowers but got none. Wednesday 18 April 1898 A pleasant warm dry day. V sowing wheat. Jr here cultivating in the wheat, ate dinner here and worked till 5 Oclock pm. Hubert here all day and helped Maud pick up chips. Grandmother picking over peas. Maud and Muriel go to Burnhams woods for May flowers, came back in time to help set table. Frank Woodman here in evening. Would like to do something beside house work but can get no time. Will gave fish 2 a sucker and pike. �10 Thursday 14 April 1898 A cool pleasant day, clouds gathering from the South. Barometer falling. Wind N.E. and brisk. Wellie helping V this am, ate dinner here and then went home. V fixed an iron for Frank 25 cts. Granny has finished the "Mountain mystery" 600 pages and is now reading "In Buncome County" after sorting peas. Hubert came up for his gum and mittens. Will gone to Kingston on Pierpont. I brought water from the dinner river Friday 15 April 1898 No rain, cold chilly wind from North. V preparing ground for sowing grain. Granny reading Buncome. Volty, Welly and Will doctoring Jess for colic all p.m. Thought she’d die but better toward night. Wellie came again in evening and stayed till bed time. Will here and V and Wm practiced their music lessons till 1/2 past nine We read in evening papers that war is declared between US & Spain. Maud goes to Eveline’s to get her apron stitched �11 Saturday 16 April 1898 sent 5 doz eggs. A fine day, no rain. V run the nets and got 2 pike and a sturgeon on a Will and Charley came shortly after and in the other nets and got a pail full of perch. V planted potatoes all am and pm fited pea ground till 4 Oclock pm then done chores and he and Frank go to Village to practice. R came over and brought soap, gave her a mess of potatoes and beans. Sunday April 17 - 1898 A fine day, wind South dry, no rain. Awake this morning to find Grace at home. Belle and the children awake to find her gone. V and G came last or this am at 2 Oclock within the week. Eveline has sent milk, buttermilk, butter, apples dutch cheese &c &c. Maud went home with Muriel and Hubert. Grace went to church. after church Grace went to Evelines from there to Wills. Jen and Will coming home with Grace and Maud. I get supper for Granny. V and I evening practice Jen, Will and Frank Woodman. I write a letter to Flora Bamford which I will finish later on �12 [hand scribed in pencil] 1948 1897 55 Monday 18 April 1898 A very fine day but dry cannot wash for the wash tub has nearly fallen down. V, and G, take the tub to river, put it in the water and fill it with stones. Grace and Maud sweeps the door yard. Grace has pain in side and hes down 8 hours. Set a hen on 18 eggs. Lottie brought seeds, top onions and melon seeds. Tuesday 19 April 1898 A cloudy morning looks like rain. Grace washes all forenoon lines full of clothes. After noon Grace and Maud drive to Belles with Bess and dog carp carrying vinegar and strawberry plants plants &c Irene washes aprons and other things, comes on to rain. Reuben called here leaving his skiff on shore, been up to Montgomery to pick up the fragment of his buggy that was broken yesterday when his horse ran away after wrenching himself free from the gate post where Rube had �13 hitched him. Volty cultivating in peas through the rain. Rain continues all afternoon and evening. Grace and Maud do not return home this eve as they intended. In the evening rains so fiercely that V does not go for mail but toots his horn instead. 20 April 1898 Wednesday morning, a cloudy morning but no rain, wind South and rising and cold. V plowing by the Church. Wellie came for grain to grind and sow. Went from here to Rattrays with double team and waggon to get grinding done. Maud and Grace return at 10 a.m. V works in field till 3 pm then goes to Wellies to help butcher. Belle sent me beans, pork, buttermilk and cream and some very choice flower seeds, gourds and purple morning Glories. Grand has no tobac and she is going to travel right off. Grace set a hen on 10 eggs. A cold raw April day a letter from Jess rec’d �14 Thursday 21st April 1898 A cloudy morning, wind hushed and gone to sleep after last night blowing half a gale. Grass growing and bright green covers our yard. Volty gone to Wellies early this morning to drive him to the dock. Wellie going to carry one pig to market. The apple trees are budding leaves. A rainy day. Rube came for his buggy top. Volty drove to the dock for Wellie. Edna sent me silk scraps and a beautiful bouquet of flowers the "royal George". Heard this evening that there will be a battle fought between U.S.A and Spain after V came home from the dock and done the chores he went to Ma Jr V to help them move their coal stove. A brilliant star lit night. After a day of rain and record squalls. �15 Friday 22 April 1898 A cloudy morning, began to sprinkle rain as Maud started for school. Rachel came over and brought salt and borrowed the garden rake. Grace went home with her for soap, yeast, cakes and sweet peas for Belle. After dinner Grace white washed the kitchen and cleaned part of the wood work. Ethel came over for starch and whiting. Grace used all tthe whiting. Grace made cookies and Irene made pumpkin pies, rained all afternoon. Jack Niles drove to scchool house for teacher and Moz and Maud came down with them. Volty and Wallace moved our coal store into the closet. Saturday 23rd 1898 April A soft mild morning, Wind North and light, warm enough to comfortably in garden field or yard. But Grace, Maud and [?] work within doors, cooking, cleaning kitchen, washing, wood work. After dinner and dishes washed, Grace and Maud raked the �16 front yard and burnt the rubish [sic]. Grace cleaned out the little arbor for flower beds and for the hammock. Wellie came and brought me butter, took Voltites skiff and rowed to Riverview for kerosine. Will and Charlie ran the nets, got a basket full of small fish (perch), gave me 6 fishes and gave Geo Gillespie some fish. Geo Gillespie here for raspberries bushes. Devolson transplated two plum trees (yellow egg). V goes to band practice, taking Jim Morgan with him from Rob Smiths. Will Dixon goes up with Frank Woodman came home at 1/2 past 2. I did not sleep very well. Volty heard potatoes falling in barrel down cellar; arose to investigate, found nothing - Spooks. A sun dog S of sun. V went to A Joslins for hay. 2 hundred Sunday 24 April 1898 Did not arise till late this morning. Grace and Maud had breakfast nearly ready when got out, rainy morning, wind North and cold. Grace and Maud go to church. Hattie Joslin came home with them ate dinner �17 with us. Grace goes home with Harriet and stays to tea. Rubin there. Hattie came over with Grace. R came over and stayed till late. Maud goes with her as far as Frank’s gate. I got supper. Cook eggs and boil potatoes. Evening visitors. Will Robertson, Will Dixon, Jen Dixon, Charlie Dixon. They stay till bed time. All go together Monday 25 April 1898. A cloudy, chilly day. Strong North wind. Grace and V arise early, breakfast, ready by 6 am. V goes to JN’s for seed drill. Frank came to borrow - something of V don’t know what. V working in field all day. Grace goes to Ev’s for our track puller came back, brought butter. Grace took carpet off dining room floor, done big washing hung them all on the line then made a garden bed for onion sets, multipliers and set them out . I cook beans, potatoes. and turnips made �18 aunt cakes. I borrowed sugar of Eveline. Lizzie H at E’s making E a wrapper. Grannie picking out sugar peas for Will. Lottie and Louise came over to bring their grandmother’s wardrobe and ask her when she is coming home, as they were instructed. Evening buglers. Will Dixon, Frank Woodman; practice till 10 O’clock p.m. Dry cold weather. Maud goes to SCHOOL. Will brought me a piece of butter. Tuesday 26 April 1898 Weather cool. Wind North and heavy. Grandmother picking sugar peas for Will, Maud gone to school, Grace moped [sic] dining room floor and is now writing a letter to Laura Joslin. Irene patching overalls for Devolson while he works in field. After dinner Grandmother reads "Romance of two Worlds". Wellie came up with team for grain. Lottie came over for white work finish. V finished the grain fields before the barn and cultivating by the Church. Grace lying down awhile. Grace is taking at �19 Our garden flower seeds came this eve. up carpet on sitting room floor. Grannie gone to bed in eve. V went to Wills with the horn blowers after going to JN to borrow a horse. Wednesday 27 April 1898 A chilly day, wind North. Irene sowed flower seeds. Grace worked carpet and sewed the east bed room carpet for the chamber. Maud at school. V with the Niles horse and Jesse is putting in oats. Grannie reads and goes to bed. Rachel came over for vinegar. Flora came after school and brougth butter milk and sugar, and we had pancakes for supper. WE go to bed early. There is no visitors. Knit or crochet 2 cross lambrequin went to W Boudreaus for [?] Thursday 28th April 1898 A cold chilly morning wind North. V went to JN’s for oats bought 4 bushels oats and JN offered to lend a horse to finish putting in the oats. V run fish net �20 got one perch and a pickerel which I dress for dinner. Granny’s reading and smoking. Cold and cloudless. Hubert came and brought butter. Friday 29 April 1898 sow indoor seeds in small boxes and sow flowor [sic] seeds, Phlox, Selocia [Celosia] and others. After dinner drive to Wellies with V to help E butcher three hogs for market. �21 Satuarday 30th April 1898 A fine day. Wind North but warm. Levi Border here to dinner. We read war news to the old man, poor old fellow going to get a fortune. Never will get any thing. Sunday 1 May 1898 A fine day. Grace went to Morgans in skiff with Will Robinson. Bernard Morgan here all afternoon and evening. Rachel here to dinner and supper. Will went over the river with Dev’ skiff went to dodges, went to carry Mr Levi Border across the river. Grace and Maud went to Church. Charley here too. Wellie here for exchanging milk cans. Van Bamford and Lib at Wellies all p.m. �22 Monday 2nd May 1898 Some what cloudy. Grace washed. I set the wormwood plant that Will gave me in the grove. Maud gone to school, made 3 boxes for gourds, had evening visitors. Viola Davis, Will Dixon, Frank Woodman here to practice music with Volty, Charley, Dixon here too. Dec plowed our flower garden and plowed and cultivated ground for potato planting. Charley brought me flowers from the woods. Tuesday 3rd May 1898 Rainy night and morning, cloudy all day and cool. Every thing looks like spring. Wheat up and growing. V all through sowing potatoes for seed in the s barn. I sowed Daisy and Aster seed & gourds. Grace got a bad cold. I sent 30 cts to Park for flower seeds, for Eveline, made pickles. Grace sewing carpet. I filled lounge tick with husks. Eveline sends lard by Maud last night. Birds are gaily singing. No letter from Wells. �23 Wednesday 4 May 1898 A rainy drizzling day, cold too. Clears up a little in afternoon. Devolson repairing fence down by Franks line. Welly here. I borrowed 6 cts for postage. Grace ironed all the clothes. Grace went to E’s for buttermilk. E sent us more butter. Eveline is a good girl. Thursday 5 May 1898 A cloudy day, weather cold enough to snow. Think it will snow. Wind north. Brought all the plants and pans of sowed seeds in door. Left them out last night for the first time this spring. Nearly ruined poor "Lilly bell". Dee drawing out manure. Grace taking up and tacking down carpet. Charley and Will here fixing hoes. Maud at school. Grandmother here reading all day "terbacker" all gone again. Charley came in for matches for Devolson �24 and told her there is a cigar stub out in the shop. Rachel gone to market with butter. No milk or butter for us yet. Devolson removed an apple tree which bears a sweet red apple, its is doubtful if it ever recovers the shock of transplanting. V fished for the shovel by Jack Light after dark then he and Frank went spearing, gone till 1/2 past 12, caught 1 eel, 1 sucker, 7 small perch. Very cold so brought in all the plants and seed pans. Friday 6 �25 Saturday 7 Sunday 8 �26 Monday 9 Tuesday 10 May 1898 So long ago since last wrote to in this diary nearly forgotten what transpired for a whole week past. We received letters from Wells and Dr Watty. We expected mail from Park seedsman but was disapointed [sic] Grace went for the mail. �27 Wednesday 11 May 1898 A beautiful warm day but afternoon windy and squalling from South. V planted potatoes all a.m. then washed the dirt from the buggy that had been on the buggy since last fall. V and Wm D left for Marysville band practice at 4 O’clock. They came home at 1 am through mud, wind and rain. Wednes evening Will, Volty & Charley went spearing for ells [sic] and got 6 ells and a sucker besides breaking the eel spear. Thursday 12 May 1898 Wall Niles here for eggs to get a loan. A rainy morning. V drove to dock with Grace with 17-1/2 doz eggs which she sold for $11.58. Rain cleared away about 12 oclock noon day. Maud home from school all day on account of rain. Volty slept 4 hours. Will Robinson here for post auger. Holly gone to Kingston too Drove to dock for grace. She didn’t get the money on the post office order. �28 Friday 13th May 1898 A fine morning. Afternoon breezy. Grace cleaning wood-work in dining room. Mrs Niles here for eggs got 15, paid 9 cts doz for 15. Irene came with her. Lollie came over to make an all day visit. V planted potatoes this a.m. and pm drew manure on corn land. Wind West and cool. Expected Eveline sow seeds but they came not. Saturday 14 May 1898 A fine day but this is a house of busy working from early morn till dewy eve. Will & Voltie start for band practice at 3, going to get there. Eli in time for marching: sent Marjorie a little note of thanks for those flower seeds the dear little girl. �29 Sunday 16 May A fine day and warm. After breakfast Maud and I wash the dishes and then go to Wills, found them all well. After dinner we all go to the back woods for flowers, found a heifer out there with a fine calf, a black and white bull calf. Came back, rested awhile and then came home. R came too. We had our tea at home so we read awhile, rest ourselves and all retire to rest peacefully Monday 16 May 1898 A fine warm day: Wind S and mild. V finished drawing names on potatoe ground. After noon plowed the ground for planting. Grace washed big washing and hung them on the line and one bed quilt. Irene does general house work and sows a few flower seeds. Grandmother read novel and then goes to bed. Will and Charley over here setting fish net. Rachel and Flora here for greens. Maud goes to school. �30 S Tuesday 17 May Wednesday 18 �31 Thursday May 19 1898 A rainy morning all the same. Volty drives to the dock with Grace. Friday May 20 1898 Grace papering up stair. Maud at school. I doing kitchen work all a.m. Grandmother reading James sketch book. V planting potatoes. After dinner and the dishes washed, I went to Evelines with V who is going to plow corn ground for Wellie. We stayed till after supper. Rachel stoped [sic] us on our return trip saying she coming over to stay all night for Grandmother has ran away while I am gone and came home again? Geo Williams is there also and acordingly [sic] she came over and also Marjorie who had [?] came down with the mail and surely when one goes another comes. But it is all right. �32 Saturday May 21 1898 A delightfully warm day south wind. Warm weather fortells thunder showers. Every tree, and all vegetation is so green with growth, that it more resembles the luxuriourance [sic] of the south land than Canada. A new milk cow today. Grace cleaning chamber ie papering, painting dining room floor tacked the carpet on the chamber floor. V, WallN and FW gone to band practice. A buisy [sic] day of labor all around the men were here selling bazar tickets. Grace bought one "Sister Mary Mabel" Sister Mary Thomas" from the house of providence. Sunday May 22 1898 A heavy thunder shower this morning. Every thing delightfuly fresh after the rain. V came home 1/2 past 2 a.m., slept till 7, done the chores in the rain, went gain to bed. Clears up fine at 10 am. Our orchard white with blossoms, the flower seeds coming up very well especialy those from England that my dear Helen gave me. Tarks seeds not so good. Grace making a lemon pie for dinner. Walked over to Wills �33 with Marjorie and Maud in tow. They were just eating dinner found John Niles Sr there getting his hair cut. We went to the woods ie Rachel, Will, D., Charlie D., Flora D., Ethel D., Lottie D., Louise D., and Majorie & Maud and myself, gathered wild flowers and Will dug ferns which I brought home. R & C came home with us: tea ready when we arrived: am very tired and we all retire early. Looks very much like rain. Monday 23rd May 1898 Arose at 1/2 past 5 a.m. raining hard. Go to the barn for potatoes and build fire and have breakfast nearly ready when Volty and Grace and the two youngsters get up. another heavy shower then clears up and the south wind blows a half gale from South all day. Marjorie & Maud go school. Grace washes all the clothes - sow some more flower seed and set out ferns and flowers. Our relatives from over the way were intending to cross over here to �34 go to Kingston tomorrow but wind and waves prevent. Fortunate for me. Another baby at Digmans next yonger than Laura. After school Maud goes to Wills for popcorn to finish planting a piece commenced. Two men here from Clayton to buy cattle. didn’t buy any. Tuesday 24 May 1898 Grace and Voltie drive to the villiage [sic]. Starting early to embark on board of ferry boat enroute for Kingston. Wolfe Island brass band are going to play to day in town. American soldiers and Canadian soldiers to day marching side by side bearing the Stars and Stripes aloft through the streets of Kingston, together with the Union Jack floating in the breeze. The Kingston 14 regiment band "Star spangled banner". Then the "Yankee lads" play "God save the Queen". Voltie came home at 12 midnight. Grace stoping [sic] in Kingston till Thursday. V drove her. She came home alone without bringing visitors but brought flowers from Mrs Marshalls flower garden when she went to call on poor Helen Watson �35 Saturday June 11th 1898 Nellie has been and gone. Maud has been and gone and much has transpired since I last wrote in this diary. Battles between United States have been fought, victories won. I don’t remember much which transpired between 24 and 28th of May which was on Saturday which was the very day that young Fred McKood, and Miss Reas who teaches school in the [?] school house came blundering in here while they were out airing themselves on the river, found no one at visible home except Grace who was scrubbing the dining room floor. Dont relish the uncerimonious [sic] visits of city clerks and school marms so early in the day. Saturday evening of the same day I drove up with Voltie (when he went to band practice) to Belles, found them well and pleased to see me, or appeared to. Belle and Charley were out milking the cows. The children were in doors taking care of the baby. Kathleen �36 well we had tea and went to bed. Arose early next morning, a fine morning. People going to church we admired the flowers in yard. We enjoyed a quiet sabath [sic] day. Callers - Miss Richardson teacher and two little Fosset girls, Hazzle and Hattie 30th Monday the children went to school till 3 O’clock p.m. when they came home and then we went to Browns woods for ferns (Beatrice, Fred and V). Belle printing butter for market. Charley drawing stone for a bridge. 31 Tuesday arose early. Belle going to Kingston to market while Beatrice and I do the work and tend the baby who is not very well - got a cold and is teething. About 10 Oclock. Grace and Marjorie came bringing Muriel with them. Grace and I get dinner, and supper while the children have great time playing. Then Charley drives to villiage [sic] for Belle and she comes just in time for supper. We have bananas for tea, about 5 Oclock p.m. We start on our homeward journey bringing little �37 Grace home with us who seems to enjoy the the drive along the beautiful country roads as much as the rest any of us. Home at last just as the sun is setting. Home home sweet home. how bright fresh and green is everything. I forgot we stay at the Wetmore place and gather flowers from the old deserted garden. Evening visitors Jimmie Morgan, Will Dixon, Charley Dixon, Rachel, Dick Jenkins, Frank Woodman, Will Robinson, at last they all go to Franks to blow horns. Rachel & Charley go home and Grace, Maud and I go to bed! 1 June Monday Grace worked. V plowed corn and potatoes. Thursday 4 June Volty and Grace go to Kingston. Volty carried the 5 hogs to Burnside and finished paying for his buggy. A sick sow, lost all her pigs. Rachel came over. Wellie & Jim Obrien here doctoring the sow. They came again in evening. Voltie & Grace came home from F’s bringing Maud Guy with them a regular old home span sort of girl �38 I forgot to mention that Voltie went up to the villiage [sic] Wednesday eve and Belle sent me some butter which I most thankfully received. 6 Saturday evening Voltie drove to the villiage in dog cart, drove Jess, Will Dixon goes with him. I sent Belles pail home with some lettuce and onions. 7 Sunday Grace went to Villiage with Maud Guy taking Gracie with them when they met Belle & Charley and all their youngones enroute for Mrs Margarette Hallidays, so they transfered Gracie to their carriage which fully completed the family load. Charley, Belle and six youngsters, 8 altogether quite fine family turnout. Well to proceed. Grace left Maud at Marysville enroute for Kingston and met Nelly at the wharf and brought her home with her for a weeks visit bringing her photography aparatus [sic] and her painting and music and presto change between she and �39 and her sister Maud. Nellie brought breezy animated vivacious [sic]. Cant work while Nellie is here, only get meals and chat & ramble around. 8 Monday Nelly stayed home and painted a drape. Shelly came down to invite her to her home. Wallace came twice to day. 10 Tuesday An excursion to day to day [sic] to Picton on the steamer. Arrives for the benefit of the Wolfe Island Brass Band. Our boys toot their horns to day for the excursion 20 of them. Will Dixon & Maud Watson with the lunch basket go in dog cart. Voltie, Grace & Voltie go in covered buggy, they got started at six am and return at 11 pm, report a fine time except for a heavy shower of rain. I forgot to say that on 9th Wednesday Nelly took 4 photographs and then went to Mrs Niles and stayed till 4 Oclock. Came home had tea and painted till dark. Grace went to Evelines for Bread for sandwitches [sic]. V drove down the �40 rhubarb rubarb Thursday 9 Nelly went to Evelines at 9 stayed till dark. Grace went to dock to meet young Mahood who was coming down to make a visit but he did not make his appearance and I’m glad of it. Dont want to make the acquaintance of any more city clerks. Grace went with Wallace in Wallaces new buggy to dock then came to Evelines and walked up home with Nellie, stoping at Franks for Rubarb. V mowing door yard with scythe, Wallace here again inviting ours to a dance at Jim OBriens tomorrow eve. Dont think they will attend. Friday 10 Cloudy day but Nelly takes pictures, twelve altogether of different views of the river and orchard, house and grounds in general. We all had our pictures photoed, dogs and horse and all. Cleaning out the cemetery to day, about 20 men and women at work. Saturday 11 Some what rainy. We arose at 4 get breakfast and then Grace drives with Nellie to the dock for Kingston and she goes this afternoon from there to Belleville. Well the �41 the day passes quietly on. Rachel and Flora come over & Grace cuts and makes Flora a print dress. Volty hoes potatoes. Irene weeds flower garden and transplants flowers and tomatoes. Rains nearly all p.m. and all Saturday night. R & Flo stay all night. Will and Charley go fishing by the high rock. Sunday 12 June 1898 A cool cloudy breezy morning, Ground heavy with moisture after last nights rain, a fine growth of all vegetation. Potatoes nearly in bloom, apples give great promise of abundance. It looks fair for a boutntiful harvest of all kinds of vegetables fruit and grain. Half past 12 pm R & H gone home. V gone to bed. Grace gone to bed. Maud reading "Our Bessie" and I’m hungry as a wolf. To day the Rev Cornell preached his last sermon and why are ours not at church. I must now hull those strawberries for our dinner. Evening visitors W.D. = Frnak W, Dick Jenkins �42 13 Monday June 1898 A fogy [sic] morning, clears up at 11 am. Volty went to Jr for crow bar, carried them tomato plants, brought crow bar and peppermint plants. Grace sewing, making Marjorie a dress. Maud pulling mustard. Irene churned and done dairy work in general, made pickles Tuesday 14 June 1898 A fine day. Grace Maud and V pulling mustard. Most forgot what done. Grace went to Evelines from the post office, letters from Bob G., a postal from Nellie Guy from Belleville. V commenced making Franks buggy box. Frank and Jim Morgan drive her in buggy and sit in buggy talking to Y till 10 pm. Grace & Maud come at 10 pm �43 A letter from W Sr which Grace gets from the villiage post office. Wednesday 12 June 1898 A heavy wind from the North nearly all day. I churn and get ready for Grace to go to market tomorrow. Maud goes berrying, got a pint. Grace sewing for Marjorie. Grace changes her mind and goes to the garden party instead so will not go to K tomorrow & goes up with Wm D and V in buggy, leave here at 4 pm and Maud and Irene are alone, ate every thing clean for supper, no bread in house so bake biscuits for suppose they will come home hungrier than hounds generaly do come that way. Thursday 16 June 1898 Willy goes to Kingston, bought a new table. A very good day after the garden party they came home at 4 am tired and hungry for after blowing their horns tired and driving so far 14 miles, his R never offered them any refreshments not as much as a piece of bread or a glass of water. Dibbs will go dry for music a long time before any of the band plays for him again. V hoes potatoes after rising at 8 am. Grace slept all pm. Evening Wallace brought us a mess of fish, transplanted flowers again and weed carrots. Frank & Wallace here. Will D goes to River view �44 Friday 17th June 1898 A warm day, wind South, a gentle breeze. Gace washed a line full of clothes. Maud at home. V hoeing potatoes this side of the marboroughs. Irene churns and makes 17 prints for tomorrow market. Rachel here inviting V & G to a dance at their house this evening! Poppycock. Don’t believe they will go. If Grace goes she must stay home from going to market tomorrow. Maud went before breakfast to Evelines for soap. Saturday 18 June 1898 �45 Sunday 19 Mon 20 �46 Tuesday 21 Wednesday 22 �47 Thursday 23 Friday 24 �48 Saturday 25 Sunday 26 �49 Monday 24 Tuesday 25 �50 Wednesday 29 Thursday 30 �51 Friday 1st July Saturday 2 July �52 Sunday 3rd Wind South blowing a gale all day. Belle wind bound at Gloyds. Charley came for her. Went home without her. Beatrice and Charley were north him. Niles went across this morning to carry Mrs Farr across. Wallace over there too went back again after bringing Grace home last night. Monday 4 A cloudy morning looks like rain wish would rain, need it very much but no rain falls for us. V goes early across the river for Belle borrowed Niles skiff gone two hours. Grace drove home with Belle, Gracie & Kathleen. Came home at 8 pm �53 Tuesday 5 A dry cool day no rain Wednesday 6 A hot day & a cloudless sky, made 13 lbs butter for market & churned in the cellar. V "cookin" hay �54 Thursday 7 July 1898 Another hot day wind South, sky cloudless. Grace gone to Kingston. Maud drove her to dock with Jim horse and the cart. Will Robinson helping V draw hay all day. Laura and R gone to dock gone to K L and Billious stayed all night with J and E. Friday 8 July 1898 No rain. �55 Saturday 9th July 1898 No rain Sunday 10 July 1898 �56 Monday 11 Tuesday 12 �57 Wednesday 13 July 1898 Thursday 14 July 1898 A dry hot day. Maud drove old Jim to dock (or started to) just below Wills broke down dog cart. Grace transfered her butter & eggs to Wm Gillespie cart and then got a seat in Geo Ranions vehicle. Maud not satisfied with her trip. The breakage did not fulfil her expectation of a pleasant drive to the dock. Will fixed the cart. Maud a good girl & worked all day. Maud again drove to dock at night fall for Grace. Mr Watson and Benjamin came to make their annual visit. �58 Friday 15 July 1898 The weather excessively hot. No rain every thing drying up, pastures brown and burnt. Grace and Maud gather raspberries in the scorching hot sun, breezy wind North. Awake this morning to find Wesley and Benjamin Watson here. Voltie and Will draw a big load of hay from Mr Niles that he (Niles) had given to Voltie. p.m after dinner. V tinkered up all around, made pigs trough, ground scythe. W.L.W. turned the grindstone. �59 Saturday 17 16 July 1898 Another dry hot day. Wind South. Volty cutting barley with a Scythe. We churned, cleaned floors & windows, preserved berries, and worked all day. W.F.W & Son go visiting Wills folks. Voltie at 5 p.m. starts for Marysville carrying Belles vinegar to her and I send a letter to Wells & a note to Belle, a postal to Mrs. Quinn We have peas for dinner and raspberries. 18 July 181798 [?] Sunday a dry hot day. W.F.W & family went to church. Voltie let Hazle take the dog cart. Will and Charlie came over for it. We slept late this morning nearly 7 O’clock. V came home at 1/2 past one a.m, brought a piece of beef from J.M. also a piece of beef for Uncle Sammy. Sam came for the beef bringing a five quart pail to put said beef in. �60 Monday 19 18 July 1898 No rain. Tuesday 20 19 July 1898 No rain. �61 Wednesday 21 20 July 1898 No rain, so warm can scarcely make buttter prints have to use ice freely. Old W.F.W. mad "Going to thrash Maud" The old lunatic. Thursday 22 21 July 1898 No rain so hot. V dont work in field, every thing scorching and burning up. The butter hardened with ice but all out of shape some prints look like pancakes, but Grace sold it for 20 cts per lb. a scarcity of butter on the market. Poor old W.F.W. went home this morning. I believe he is insane. Grace bring Victor Quinn home with her. �62 Friday 23 22 July 1898 Another hot day. No rain or sign of rain, a hot cloudless day. Voltie and Will draw our barley and then Voltie goes over and helps Will draw and stack his barley. Eveline sent Muriel up with some honey. Grace sent E some butter. Grace & Maud went to Eveline’s. I sent E a plant. Mail - a letter fro W Sr & a postal for Maud from W.F.W. and the Whig. The Stars & Stripes floating over Santiiago. Saturday 23rd July 1898 No rain. A strong breeze from South. V goes to the Ross place for a load of wood taking Victor Q with him.I write to Sr �63 24 25 �64 26 27 �65 28 29 �66 30 31 �67 Aug 1 1898 2nd �68 3 4 �69 5 Aug Friday 1898 A dance at Almonds this Evening. V and G and LD and Maud W attend. V gets a dollar for playing the Violincello. Frank a dollar and H Joslin a dollar. Grace is going to the villiage to go to Kingston to stay with Kelly till Tuesday. 6 Aug Saturday 1898 Dont arise very early after Almonds dance. V gets up at 7 but Grace, Maud and Miss L Davis lie in bed till 9 a.m. Little Grace Halliday sleeps with me and makes a racquet about "my Aunt Grace". I want her mom I’m very glad when morning comes. Well along towards night Grace starts out again taking Laura Davis and Gracie H with her and the house settles back to its old acustomed [sic] place once again. V drives up to the villiage with Frank W Grace goes up with buggy. �70 7 Aug Sunday 1898 A fine day. V came home late 3 a.m. We are alone nearly all day that is Volty, Victor, Maud and I. V had a long nap. This morning I called him at 8 a.m. , late milking the cows. We had a fine dinner at 3 p.m. Evening visitors were Mrs Niles, Shelly Niles, Irene Niles, Wm Dixon, Jen Dixon, Charley Dixon, Dick Jenkins and Frank Woodman 8 Aug Monday 1898 A very fine day but warm. Eveline and the children come up on the waggon with Wallie after Voltie had been down all there fore noon and and [sic] helped Welly finish his harvesting. then Welly and Volty finished up here but worked till after dark. Uncle Levin Border came and stayed to supper and stayed all night, he is going across the river to live says Spafford turned him out door. Hubert lost himself behind the ice house where Eveline found him alseep after a great deal of anxious look and calling by E & Mr Victor, Maud, Muriel and Volty and I �71 9 Aug Tuesday 1898 Will came this morning took V’s skiff and rowed Uncle Levi over the river. Will stayed on all day and worked for Horace Dodge and come home after dark. Volty works all day for the Niles. Grace rode down with Jim Morgan on meat cart. Grace bought 15 cts of beef of Jim. I was two shirts for V & some towels. 10 Aug Wednesday Churn and make out nine lb pounds of butter for market. Volty digs 4 bags of potatoes for market after working half day for Niles. McDowels agent called here. �72 11 Aug 1898 Thursday A hazy close hot day. Voltie and Grace goes to Kingston. I churn and patch. Victor watches cows and pick up potatoes. Maud skims milk and washes pans & draws milk. Jen & Charley here in evening for ice. Jen brings home my butter print and gets her own V paid 5 more on the P which makes 10 paid on it. 12. Aug - 1898 Friday A fierce wind from South all night: blew the front door open with a bang. Blowing to day. Hazy. V and W Jr gone for a load of wood from the Ross place. The ground this morning covered with harvest apples. Mrs Robinson (from Frank’s) came with the swill pail. Grace crocheting doiyles [doilies]. Irene patched Victor’s shirt. A cow had a calf this morning. the black and white cow. �73 13 Saturday 14 Sunday �74 15 Monday 16 Tuesday �75 17 Wednesday 18 Thursday �76 19 Friday 20 Saturday �77 21 Sunday 22 Monday �78 23 Tuesday 24 Wednesday �79 25 Thursday 26 Friday �80 Thursday 29 September 1898 27 Saturday A beautiful day. Arise early put butter in basket 17 lbs send a basket of sage. E come from Burnhams where she stayed all night. Maud home to day from school. The girls work very well. A nap for me this p.m. 28 Sunday Friday 30 Sept -98 A fine warm day like July. Cut and sewed carpet rags. V dug potatoes and pm went to Wills to cope house John Dixon here all afternoon. V came home at dark and brought 2 band pictures one for sis and one for Wells Jr Evening visitors Maggie Scott Frank W. Grace milked the cows at evening. V drove out with Edna and then drove home with Scott: got to bed at last 12 midnight- a beautiful moonlight night. �81 Saturday 29 Monday Oct 1st 1898 Have not written in this diary since the 12 of Aug. This is very warm, all the doors and windows wide open. River still, no wind. Churned in cellar: butter very soft. V digging potatoes. Ed picking up a party at Van’s to night for Frank. he 22 years old to day. E & M go to Franks for crab apples. Grace finished J.K’s dress 30 Tuesdaygoing to take or send them tonight. Edna & Grace & Voltie drove to Village to band practice. Grace carries Gracies her nigh gowns and drove up wtih Wallae from Wm Ranons. Sunday 2 Oct 1898 A bright warm day, breezy. They came last night at one a.m. They arose 1/2 past 7 O’clock a.m. �82 31 Wensday [sic] Thursday 1 No town �83 �84 [back cover with attached seal] Red Rope Magazine Binder Manufactured by Gaylord Bros. Inc Syracuse, N.Y. Stockton, Calif. �85 �This document would not be possible without the editorial contributions of the following people: Ann Hopkinson, Queen’s University Archives, and MaryV � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Collection Subject The topic of the resource 19th and 20th Century Rural Ontario Diaries Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Courtesy of Queen's University Archives Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1887-1922 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Frontenac County, Wolfe Island, Ontario Table Of Contents A list of subunits of the resource. Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1887 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1888-1889 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1889-1897 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1890 March - June Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1893-1895 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1895-1899 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1896 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1897-1898 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1898 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1899 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1899-1900 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1900 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1902, 1906 parts of Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1902-1909 parts of Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1904-1905 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1907 & 1918 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1908-1919 parts of Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1911 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1913 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1913-1914 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1915-1916 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1916-1917 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1917-1918 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1918 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1921-1922 Language A language of the resource English Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1898 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Courtesy of Queen's University Archives Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1898 Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 19th Century, Frontenac County, Wolfe Island, Ontario Date Created Date of creation of the resource. April 5th, 1898 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Collection Extent The size or duration of the resource. Typed Transcription UG Transcription Progress Scripto transcription progress Done transcribed https://ruraldiaries.lib.uoguelph.ca/transcribe/files/original/b1e65dbef3076360239de26ccfd103ff.pdf 878e7b96c1cda36e6d019071f9aa33b0 PDF Text Text Irene Dixon Bamford 1897-1898, Diary Transcription 5034_4-1-7 �Metadata FromThePage export of 5034_4-1-7 from Irene Dixon Bamford made on 2026-02-11 14:35:14 UTC. itemTitle: 1897-1898 date: 1897-1898 Title: 5034_4-1-7 Description: Item is a diary. Created On: 2024-01-11 17:31:25 UTC In Scope: true Uploaded Filename: 5034_4-1-7 �1 [File folder containing originals] IRENE DIXON BAMFORD DIARY 1897-1898 [stamp] Queen’s University Archives Locator 5034-4 �2 B-read 1897 - 1898 �3 �4 Mrs wells Bamford with L.Watson Kingston Public School Scribbler [stamp] 1987 & 1898 [imprint of unidentified school possibly Grant Hall Queens U] Manufactured by McAuley, Cit Book Store 136 Princess Street, Kingston �5 Grace H Bamford St Lawrence PO Wolfe Island Ontario [random scribblings] �6 �7 My dear Papa I received your letter some time ago and was grieved and shocked to hear of poor dear Gordons death. I’m sorry for dear Aunt Mamie and Grandma too and aunt Helen but he is in Heaven now with his father. I can never forget the last time I was there and what a pleasant time we had playing games. Marjorie went with me once. We will see him again some time in that beautiful summer land where there will be no snow or pneumonia. what will poor aunt Mamie ever do but grandma says the Lord can heal her broken heart. Uncle Wells came home on Christmas day like a big Christmas present to us all. Martin came home a week earlier. Martin brought me as a present a beautiful celluoid work box with thimble cissor [sic] &c complete and presents for Grace, Volty and Grandma. Edna Quinn at Christmas time gave me a moroco case for holding letter paper, envelopes, pen holder, blotting pad &c all fill Nelly Guy sent me a flower pot holder. Grace gave me books and other things and we had a Christmas dinner and Wells came. Miss Gordon is our new teacher. �8 I have not been to school since she began teaching, but am going Monday. The weather has been so rough and the walking mudy [sic] beside. I helped Grace, for Grandma fell and sprained her ankle two weeks ago. and she cannot step on it. The river is free from ice on our shore but Volty and Wallace Niles walked across down by Mr Horns, day before yesterday on form ice but the ice is gone now. My health is good. I never was so fat as now. How is your health and what made you sick when you last wrote and are you teaching and how are Benny & Willie dear little brothers and Ma. Give my love to them all and Dear Grandma and grandma Craig and family. From your loving daughter Maude L. Watson �9 Friday 21st Jan 1898 A soft drizzly day. Grace done big washing and hung it all on the line. V carried Rattrays coal home. [letters from Mrs Watson saying his mother on going to bed I slipped and hurt my ankle some ached after going to bed. Saturday 22nd Jan 1898 A cloudy soft day quiet. I’m sitting by the stove yet. Grace finished washing clothes and moped kitchen floor. Mrs Morgan and Mrs Souve came with Geo Morgan to get a sleigh tongue fixed stayed till dark. Voltie ate a hasty little supper and walked to Morgans to go with Jimmis to Marysville to band practice. Wells Sr brought in the clothes from the line. Wallace here and after supper they went (Mart & Wall) to W Burnhams to see Miss Scott & Fanny McLocklin. Mart came in very carefully at 11 a.m. Shell here for Mart & Maud to go skating with herself & Wallace and Jack Jr.Maud came in with her dress wet behind where she had fallen on the ice several times. �10 Thursday 27 Jan 1898 A clear cold day clouds toward night for a storm. Leonard Staley stayed over night. Grace went to Kingston with Leonard after dinner to get more cloth for her dress & coming back to villiage and going from there with the load to Mores to a band concert and dance. grows colder towards night but V & Will D hitch up and drive to Morgans. Mrs Niles, Shelly & Wallace come here and Mart, Maud & Edna go skating while Mrs N and me visit. Friday 28th Jan 1898 An extremely cold morning. Volty came [illegible] 4 oclock pm. Mart Sunday 23rd Jan 1898 Rained and snowed nearly all last night. Volty didn’t come home till to day at 1/2 past one pm. V and Jim stoped at Charlies and stayed all night. A soft warm day a quiet peaceful day. V and Mart gone up stairs to bed. Grace lying on lounge asleep cloudy half snow half rain. Maud reading. The dogs are sleeping too. Wells Sr sits by coal stove reading and looking out the window at the weather. �11 Friday 21st Jan 1898 A soft drizzly day. Grace done big washing and hung it all on the line. V carried Rattrays coal home. letters from Mrs Watson saying his mother on going to bed I slipped and hurt my ankle some ached after going to bed. Saturday 22nd Jan 1898 A cloudy soft day quiet. I’m sitting by stove yet. Grace finished [illegible] Monday 24 January 1898 Colder this morning & freezing. V butchered a beef cow very fat & killed 12 roosters. Grace & Mart dressed them for Market. Will and Wells Jr helped Volty. I finished the rug. Grace made fried cakes, and baked bread. Volty went to Wellies for team and stayed to supper, came back and went down to Franks to blow horn. �12 [Page is a duplicate of Page 10] �13 [Page is a duplicate of page 11] �14 [duplicate of page 10] �15 Saturday 29th Jan 1898 A very cold day. Bucks baby is dead. Frank Woodman is sick sent for doctor B. Mrs & Mr Woodman there got measles or scurvy all broke out. Grace cooking and doing Saturdays work. Edna dressing Muriels doll. Volty cut holes in ice and bushed out a road to Lindas Island. Will Dixon and Volty drove to Marysville to band practice, drove up and back on ice. Lizzie did not come courting on Monday. V carried Frank apple jelly, pickles and catsup. Sunday 30 Jan 1898 Wm & V came at 2 am. Will very cold warmed himself before going home. A clear bright day and cold. Wells Sr goes to Wells Jr to make a visit and carried the doll to Muriel came back and called to see Frank and visited awhile with Samy & Ruth. The Mores party had no fiddler but the turkey and hams didn’t spoil. Henry down to Niles courting �16 Monday Lizzie came this morning through the storm covered with snow. Grace cooking. Edna & Lizzie cutting and sewing. Wells Sr shoveling coal in the stove till it is hot as an oven. Mart whistling and Grace te heing. Frank better no measles only scurvy eating musty pork. 1st February Tuesday 1898 An old fashioned snow storm. The dress is finished and Mart has taken Lizzie home. Henry is down don’t think he went home since Sunday, if storms like this tomorrow the ball will be minus a few dancers from here. Wednesday 2nd Feb 1898 A very cold day. V & M & Jr go to [Lindas Island|Linday Island]] [sic] for wood drive double team on ice & at two leave for the villiage in sleigh driving Dan and Dick. Edna mops and then she and Grace get supper. I can step on my foot by using a cane. Old Mrs Gillespie no better. A quiet peace full evening. Wells Sr telling stories of burried money being found by dreams. Edna reading Queenie Hetherton. Maud reading Swiss family Robinson. �17 Thursday 3rd Feb 1898 A very cold bright morning morning [sic]. Our dancers came at 7 am cold tired & hungry and had had both horses through the ice just up by Elly Woodmans. Grace dress around bottom frozzen they were not in long. Volty and Mart fished them out. Then got Elly out to put a bush to the hole. They come just in time for breakfast. V and M with pant legs frozen stiff to their knees. Grace gone to bed. Mart gone to bed. Volty in blacksmith shop shoeing horses. Friday 4 Feb 1898 A cold day but warmer than yesterday. The weather divided between sunshine and snow storm. Nothing particular occurs to day. Ethel D here came over with Will & Charley. We persuaded Will to let her stay awhile. Will has a very good horse and an old cutter and he can now get all his wood and drive the children to school. Rev Diggs gone down to see old Mrs Gillespie. Saturday 5 Feb 1898 A stormy day of snow. Wellie and V gone to Kingston in sleigh carried beef and potatoes to market. Rachel and Will drove to Kingston in V’s cutter gone for groceries. �18 Mart doing Wellie’s chores and ours. Mart does a great deal of whistling & Edna a great deal of humming which is somewhat distracting and anoying when so long continued. Wills’ horse ran away but done no damage. Rachel and Will rode home with Welly. Welly brought our grist and two bags of coal. V stoped at the practice and came home in cutter at 2 a.m. [Welly|Wellie]] brought back V’s bay. Charley W sorry to have it. Sunday 6th February 1898 A brilliant cloudless day a heavy fall of snow on the earth, dazzlingly white everywhere. The monotonous whistling still going on at short intervals. Will and Charley, Voltie, Grace, Edna & Maud are sitting around the kitchen stove te heing as usual. Mart stops just long enough to whistle. 7th Feb 1898 Monday. Grace does big washing. I wash a few clothes. A good day for hanging out clothes. Father goes to Clayton to see about selling the Island but fails to make a bargain: gets 55 yds factory cloth, 34 print, 9 yds husk ticking and 5 lb batten, comes home early. A harness pedler stays all night. V and Jr and Mart bring wood from the Island in the evening. The whole company go to the oyster supper at William G’s. V & GD & Edna & Mart and JohnNiles Jr and Em Morgan rides up home �19 Tuesday 8th February 1898 Came home at 2 Oclock Grace finished washing Wells bought a new harness, traded an old one for it. Forgot to say Joe Baker was here yesterday peddling tea, bed springs and mattresses, and wall paper. Volty got a severe cold but draws wood from Lindas Island. Frank came for V to go to the villiage to the band practice waited till dark ate supper here: V came but such a bad cold and need of rest stayed at home. Frank went up alone. Wednesday 9 Feb 1898 A soft warm morning; rains No wood to day from the island. Volty and Wallace Niles go up to Kingston start at 2 pm come back and stop at Garden island to the bad concert. At 4 pm another load leaves the door. Grace, Edna, Hattie Joslin, Will Dixon, Mart & Will Robertson, Frank gone up with Jim Morgan and the house is lonesome and quiet once more �20 Thursday 10 February A soft warm morning, fog so thick cant see the barn. Charley Woodman gone to Kingston started at 6 am. Wells Sr came in from barn says they are coming for I hear Mart whistling, they came at 7 am. Wallace drunk, came home with them, think the boys had all been drinking. They drove to Franks where they deposited Wallace till he sobers up. Hattie went to bed, slept till dinner time. Mart went to bed after sitting around with his head hanging down on his shirt front, pipe bottom side up in his mouth, eyes read as coals which speaks bad for Martin: Grace and Edna sitting up to make Graces’ masquerade dress for tomorrow evening but after dinner tired nature asserts itself and they both tumble fast asleep and I drive them both to bed. Edna didnot sleep long but was out in short time and sewing again. Grace laid till nearly supper time, after supper the girls sewed till 10 pm. Poor dear little Edna the best child living. Volty went to Kingston for a masquerade suit did not get any going again early tomorrow morning. �21 Friday 11 February 1898 A warm morning, a slight freeze last night. Grace and Volty start at 1/2 past nine am for the villiage. Volty going to Kingston again. Grace going to stop with Belle till time to go to the masquerade. Welly came up gave him eggs. Very quiet after they are gone. Mart works on the ice boat. Edna makes her dress waist. Evening mail Whig &c. Go to bed wind blowing a gale from South at bed time snow fast disapearing. Saturday 12 Feb 1898 A rainy muddy nasty morning with fog: river ice looks dark and dangerous. Volty and Grace come at 1/2 past 7 well pleased with the masquerade. Old Mrs Hitchcock danced with short dress and red stockings. Perhaps she wants to marry. V and Grace sleep awhile. tried to churn cream no good butter wont gather. Send to Niles and buy 25 cents in butter. Tried a few cakes without sugar, work on rugs &c. Wallace & Geo call here on their way to Franks to make an evening visit. The ground �22 is as bare of snow as April. Sunday 13th February 1898 A brilliantly beautiful day like paradise. Earth nearly bare of snow yet there is driving on ice. Edna, Maud & Martin go to church. Charley & Henry drive down here bringing Irene with them to stay awhile. Henry & Charley here to dinner. Shelly & Miss Gordon make us a long call. Charley goes at 3 pm taking Grace & Martin with him. Grace enroute for Nelly Guy’s Valentine Party tomorrow evening. Shelly & Miss Gordon go at the same time for Miss Scott is at J Niles. Edna, Irene, and Maud are gone out walking perhaps gone to Wellies. Voltie gone upstairs to bed. Sr out to the barn. IreneSr alone remains in full posession of the house if we dont count the dogs. 4 pm growing cloudy: looks like a rainy time again. How very quiet still & lonesome the house is with only Tiny lying under the table fast asleep. Not so much as the buzzing of a fly to disturb the stillness only the tick tick of the clock as the hours creep along towards nightfall. �23 Monday 14 February 1898 A breezy morning wind South. Froze a little last night sunlight over all the earth but not brilliant, ground bare with a patch or blotch of dirty snow here and there. Arose at 1/2 past six, got breakfast, very tiresome work. Maude and Irene noisy and but then Maud swept dining room and kitchen. Volty & his father working in the shop. I mixed biscuits and bread, scoured, churn, cooked beans. Evening Volty goes to Franks to practice; Jim Morgan followed on after calling for Volty. Will there also. Tuesday 15 February 1898 A threatning morning, looks like rain or snow. Wells Sr after waiting awhile for Wells Jr starts for Kingston with old Jim and cutter. Wind rising & about noon begins to snow fast & furiously & continues to storm all afternoon till bedtime followed by an all night storm of wind and snow. Will and Welly out with ice boat on river. Rachel came over for Grace to finish her dress skirt but Grace in Kingston. Will drove here for her at 5 pm. through a snow storm. Wells Sr came just after dark but not Grace �24 Grace sent a postal threatning to come home but the threat failed to keep. I am disapointed but not surprised Perhaps it is all right. Only for little Edna, work and house hold buisness [sic] might suffer. Wednesday 16 February 1898 A half stormy half sunshine morning wind blowing snow flying. Edna moping Volty working in shop. �25 Friday 1898 February 18th A soft warm cloudy morning raining a little. Welly came with a load of grain to get ground and after loading on V’s potatoes for Cummings started for Kingston driving upon the ice. Charley & Will brought Rachel over here in cutter came again to get her dress made. Edna making it, gave her vinegar. Will drove for her taught her to crochet a block for a rug. Wellie came at dark bringing Grace with him, rode down on a load of coal and provender enveloped in her fathers mackintosh covered with ice from the falling rain. sent Maud & Irene to Niles for buttermilk but had none. Geo Darling here bought more tea. Saturday 19 February 1898 A stormy morning of rain & snow. Sr made gain this morning about his horse blankets laying out doors all night wet. It is only his things that are destroyed he notices so he pitched into Volty for a row but Volty having a great command and control of his temper answered him cooly and rationaly and reasonably as a good son ought to �26 but after all such foolish elecution of temper and authority on the paters part is very unwise in a man of his age towards his children or any one. Wind blowing nearly all day. Volty went to bay for kerosine. Edna and Maud out on ice boat with Will Dixon went as far as Morgans. In evening V went to Frank’s to practice. Edna made Irene a night dress. Wellie and Volty partly filled the ice house, a party at Morgans this evening. Will and Jen there. Sunday 20 February 1898 An icy rainy day very quiet very pleasant a dark dreamy cloudy day. Wells Sr cooking potatoes on stove for his callers Mr Sullivan and Miss Andrews from Morgans came down on ice boat Monday 21st February 1898 A stormy morning and a stormy day of rain, ice & snow, trees and earth and buildings fences and everything covered heavy with a coat of ice. Wind North. Edna made my paint dress. Grace done general house work. Irene played. Maud cleaned the lamps. Grandpa done as he pleased. Volty worked in shop and I finished a rug. �27 Tuesday 22 February 1898 Another stormy day snow falling fast, all day, Grace washing. Volty working in shop. Edna went through the storm to the post office. Irene learning to use crochet needle. Maud helping around. Grandad choring around and doing as he has a mind to. Irene Sr very lame to day, but helped get dinner. We have about ninety hens and get only from 3 to 6 eggs per day. Wednesday 23rd February 1898 A snowy morning but soon clears up and the sun comes out once more. Wells Sr hitches up Jess and drives to Gananoque, drives behind Charles Woodman and Frank Woodman. They both come home early. Volty and Frank drive to Marysville and return at 12 midnight. Mart came home with them. Thursday 24 February 1898 A stormy morning increasing in volume towards night. V & Jr sawing ice. Wellie slips in the ice hole. Volty fished him out. Wellie went home wet to his waist. He lost the long handled shovel in the hole. After dinner V tried to get it by grappling but couldnt �28 Grace cut and partly made her new print dress with Edna’s help. Sr worked on his sled. In evening Jim Morgan drove here with his bugle enroute for Frank’s. Volty went with him to Wills, found Will and Jen had driven down to see old Mrs Gillespie, then the two buglers drove to Franks. Two beautiful brilliant sundogs either side of the sun proclaims another storm day (the sun shining out through storm clouds at 3 pm) dark clouds in south like thunder cloud in summer tme. We hull corn. Expected Charley & Belle but think storm prevented. Friday 25 February 1898 A snowy morning, snow fallings so heavily can scarcely see uncle Samy’s barn. Volty butchered 10 roosters for tomorrow market. Sr fixed the stove pipe. Earth completely covered with snow. Charley & Belle drove down home bringing the two youngest children with them. Carley leaves Belle & the little ones to visit and returns homeward accompanied by Rachel and Irene. The house in a hubbub from chicken picking and cooking. A letter from McDowell concerning the piano threatens to make trouble. Wish we never had seen the thing. Will & Charley here in eve & Morgan sleep on lounge. Bernard Morgan reports the death of bishop Cleary �29 Saturday 26 February 1898 Cloudy morning with some snow but very mild. Sun comes out about 10 am and is a lovely day after all the stormy ones. Volty and Grace start for Kingston at 7 am. Charley and Frank & Will Robinson go to the city. Several teams go up to day driving up on the ice. Will and Charley drove over here in their cutter after going home. Wills horse ran away, ran up the ice. Charley & Wills followed on and caught the horse and came driving back again in great state. Belle swept and cleaned floors. Maud washed dishes. Irene Sr cleaned pantry shelves. Mart brought water. Sunday 27th 1898 A very fine day, froze last night after Grace & Edna and little Gracie drove up to Morgan’s for sweet milk for Belle’s baby. Volty drove across the river with Belle & baby Kathleen. V drove back after dinner at Mrs Gloyds. Wellie went across with him. They found no difficulty in crossing. Mart and Edna and Maud went to church. Edna went to English church with Will Robinson. Mart with Perley Burnham and then drove home with Perley and stayed till 10 pm after returning from �30 the other side drove up to Mahoneys stayed to supper and returned home at 11 pm. Bernard here in afternoon went home long enough to do the chores then came back accompanied by Mabel for an evenings visit. Ethel here for sugar. Will R here but didn’t stay a long time. Al Percy and wife over visiting at uncle Samy’s. Monday 28 February 1898 last day of month A beautiful bright day cloudless. Earth spottersly [sic] white, warm in sunlight, froze last night. Maud at school, Grace washing Edna cooking & washing dishes. Irene darning stockings. Sr mending bags. V working in shop. Mart choring around. Little Gracie singing, Maggie de tows are in de tovey. Greenfield here again about the Rogers affair. Im sorry for Sr and for all of us & only for trust and forth in the Feud that never forsakes. I dont fear what the hand of mortal man can do. After washing the dinner dishes Edna walked to Wellies to stay all pm. V and FW gone up on the ice to the practice. This evening Grace & Martin gone to Willies. �31 Tuesday 1st March 1898 A fine day Bright clear and warm, the ground beginning again to look bare. Sr gone to Marysville for coal drove up on the ice. After dinner V hitched up to go over for Belle but instead drove to election with Welly, afterwards drove across to llGloyd]]s for Belle. Wellie going with him. Maud walked to school and back at even’. Sr came at sundown. Edna comenced Maud’s dress. Wednesday 2nd March 1898 A beautiful day warm and bright. Wells Sr drove to school with Maud and from there went to Al Joslins, came back to dinner. Mart & Voltie and to Al Joslins chopping bee. Voltie drove to Wellies with Belle and the two little ones, the baby got a cold. Wellie brought Belle home at dark. Edy Bates moving his furniture across the river to the corners. Ed going to be married the 16th to Dory Gillespie. Grace & Edna walked to Evelines and rode to Al Joslins with Willie Robertson, a dance at Al’s girls stayed till eleven came home with Dick Halliday. �32 Thursday 3rd March 1898 A beautiful day, warm. Baby got bad cold applied a poutice of pork and onions to the little lungs, gave her honey and goose oil. Wells Sr and Voltie gone to Kingston sent for emulsion of cod liver oil for Kathleen. Took care of of [sic] her while Belle and little Grace went over to see their Grandmother. Wells Sr came home at dusk having had a tooth pulled which continued to ache all evening. Voltie stayed at Villiage to band practice came down with Will D in cutter at 12 midnight, not much housework or any other kind done these days, visit confusion and play and cook the meals. Sr drove to school with Maude. Friday 4 March 1898 A beautiful day bright & warm like May. Charley drove down for Belle bringing Rachel back again. Belle began early to gather her belongings in order to be ready for a departure for home. A rooster and honey and a basket of books and a bag of papers &c &c. welllies, sourkrout [sic] and mince meat, from home eggs, vinegar &c &c. A letter from Jess Reid from Seattle. A dance at Will’s, G & E & M & Martin go came here at midnight, a poor affair no supper, all the Horns there. V didnt go only drove over with the girls �33 Saturday 5th March 1898 A fine day sun shining clear. Wind S.W. Wells Sr gone to Rosier to pay the taxes on Linda’s island. Voltie goes with him. Edna cleans up the parlor. Wells Jr gone to Kingston, drove up on ice. Grace cooking—forget what Maud done. Sunday 6 March 1898 A very fine day warm cloudless. Grace & Edna drive to Morgan’s for butter, find Florence & Sullivan there just arrived. House not in good order. Came back. Edna, Maud & Martin go to church. Grace gets dinner—After dinner Grace goes up the Island with Will Robinson to Belles, comes back at 9 pm. After dinner Jim Morgan puts in his appearance. Then come Dave Mahoney, they all stay to supper. After supper, Frank Woodman comes and stays till bed time: at last all go home and we get settled in our beds once more sleeping the sleep of peace and contentment such is life. A lovely moonlight night �34 Monday 7 March 1898 A beautiful bright cloudless day snow fast disapearinag. Grace washing. A tinker came and repaired the organ worked at it all day till bed time. Maud at school. Mart walked across the river to Dodge’ and from there went to Cape and home before dark. Volty went to villiage drove up on ice came back at 12 midnight, we put the tinker in the boys bed. Mart slept on lounge. Volty had to stretch himself as well as he could on the couch in parlor. We have all got a cold in head or some kind of distemper "Epigootic" Wells calls it. I know my head and eyes ache badly. Tuesday 8 March 1898 Grace & Edna put quilt on frames. A beautiful day which is the 12th day of warm brilliant suny weather. Edna drove to school with Maude. W Sr & W Jr drove to Gananoque—went with cutter & 1 horse, started at 30 m past 7, arrived in Gananoque at 9 am bought a horse and back here for the mid day meal. I’m ever to Belles—why is it always so �35 Wednesday 9 March 1898 Another soft warm sun light but rather hazzy. Maud at school. V preparing to go to the villiage to the Presbyterian concert we are quilting. Voltie and Edna tapped trees to day. R came over for Ink, rode on sled home. Wellie driving. V came home at two am. Thursday 10. A fair warm day, snow nearly gone, no crossing, ice rotten with the sun shining on it so long day after day. We took the quilt off the frames. Mart took 16 pans to Wellies they going to tap Frank’s maples, ground so soft didnt tap. Will tapped Dignams maples. Maud at School Friday 11 March 1898 A fair warm day wind East, ice full of holes, open up by Morgans. Dev here for broad axe. Dev milking 7 now �36 cows we bound the quilt. Maud at home, roads all mud. V & M sawing wood. Grace, Maud and Edna sitting on the wood pile. Our cats all sick, have fits. beginning to rain towards night. Wind South, rained all night, ground bare. Volty & Mart husking corn. Put another quilt on frames and quilted in evening. Saturday 12th March 1898 A dismal fogy day raining nearly all time, wind South. After breakfast Grace & Edna quilted, Maud and Irene washed dishes. no more maple syrup making this spring, frost nearly out the ground. After dinner Irene washed dishes. Maud cleaned floors, Grace and Edna quilted. Evening—Volty takes the horns & lanterns and goes to Franks through the fog. About two hours after Jim Morgan follows. J.M. stays all night at Franks. Wells reading in evening. Mart, Edna, Maud, Grace are reading in kitchen. So passes away another day never more to return. Sunday 13 March 1898 A rainy morning ground bare, ice in river breaking up. Gulls flying down the river from the lake which foretells a gale of wind., warm South wind and rising. Channel open �37 Frank & Jim Morgan made us a call, didn’t stay long. Will Robertson called in eve didn’t stay long but Will R and Mart went to Will Dixon’s where they had warm maple sugar. We went early to bed. The wind blowing half a gale dark and cloudy. Monday 14 Marach 1898. A clear bright morning wind S.W. hauling to S. river clear of ice from shore to shore, warm, Wellie here cleaning grain, Wells Sr fixes churn, Voltie cuts brush in the door yard. Grace & Edna quilt. Irene darning socks, Maude washed dishes and pares potatoes and makes a excusion to the cedars. I think if it is a good day tomorrow, Maude will attend school in evening. Grace, Maude & Edna go to Mrs Niles’ to visit. Bamford Sr sends to N’s to buy butter. They return at 1/2 past nine pm and bring some sweet apples and a borrowed spool of white thread, No 36-300 yd. Wm Robertson makes us an evening visit. Frank Woodman started the plow today. �38 Tuesday 15th March 1898 Wind N froze last night clear and bright, ground bare, river rolling broad and blue. Ed Bates came over to day, going to be married tomorrow. The girls took the quilt off. Sr, Mart & V trying to move the machine house up to [this section quite redacted, indicated by #] There is no # # #, # # #. There is no # # # # #. poor # he is to # #. I suppose the # goes # with them when they are in # #. such a # of # would bring a smile to the face of a stoic Grace & Edna going to Evelines this p.m. sap running well. Ebin Bates sick with pneumonia. Will R, J Morgan, W Niles here this evening Wednesday 16 March 1898 Wind blowing all night from East raining this morning, it looks like a bad morning the weding. clears up by 10 am sun come out bright. Rev Dibbs drives down through the mud and marries Eddy Bates and Dora Gillespie: towards night drives back again. Volty captured 8 ducks (wild) cooked two for dinner had maple syrup and biscuits. Finished moving the machine house. Wallace here started out �39 Monday Sept 97 with Gun, going to serenade Edy but Mart with more sense wouldnt go so W stayed the eve and they all played some game at cards at which they all exploded with laughter similtainously [sic]. It began to lighten [sic] and thunder and Wallace went home. The other youngsters sat up and sugared off. It continued to thunder and lighten heavily nearly all night. We caught a tub of rain water. Spring birds are merrily singing early this morning. Wells Jr came up for corn husks and brought us a nice piece of fresh pork. Thursday 17 March 1898 A beautiful morning after last nights showers. The birds are singing this morning robins and wrens. Jim Morgan has a bee shingling the school house V gone to the bee. Martin carried E a few eggs. Edna making Graces wrapper we cooked the third last wild duck for dinner sowed tomatoe seeds to day. Volty came at sun set. V the only man at Jims bee. V ate dinner �40 at Morgans. Jim Morgan called here for V to go to Franks to practice their music. Jim stoped all night with Frank. V came home about eleven p.m. Friday 18 March 1898 A clear rosy morning, warm, birds singing. The ground froze last night which makes the sap run again. Muriel came up with her dress and apron to stitch. Wellie & Voltie went to Geo Rattrays to get provender ground and V carried some corn to grind for Johny cake & came back to late for his dinner till we got him a dinner. Wellie dined with Geo R. Hubert came for Muriel. Grace gave them bread & butter & maple syrup. Edna, Maud, Harriet & Hubert went to the cemetary and found a pansy in bloom, (yellow) & left it there in peaceful solitude. Beatrice is eleven years old to day. P.M. 4 Oclock cloudy & looks like rain again. Volty & Martin set a 2 fish nets. V & E & M gathered brush, carried it to shore & had a big fire after dark. G & M went to N for butter and to the post office. Mrs Scott returned with them, sayed [sic] awhile, M went home with her. Frank W & J Morgan here also. Easter day is always the first Sunday after the full moon, which happens upon or next after, March 21st & if the full moon happens on Sunday, Easter day is the Sunday after; so that by this arrangement Easter may come as early as March 22nd or as late as April 25 �41 Saturday March 19th 1898 A cloudy morning and raiining most of the day. V & Mart went to the nets, but got no fish. Mr N went to Kingston. V repairing bellows. Wellie here. Flora here for yeast cake. Frank Woodman here in evening. In the kitchen horn blowing expected Jimme but he came not. Edna moped kitchen floor. Irene washed dishes and made scrap books. Edna & Maud picked a pansy from Charles Woodmans grave. A thunder & Lightning shower after dark. E & M went to Ns for the balance of butter 2 pounds. Sunday March 20 1898 A half cloudy day, Wind S and blowing half a gale. Quiet, all are reading minds at peace with all created universe to quiet, to still which causes droziness. Evening V, M. G & E. preparing to go calling on Mrs Dignam, when V comes in and reports a sick cow at the barn & after doctoring her awhile again prepare for the evenings visit, when who should walk in but FW, WR, and WN and when one youngsters are ready to depart, they invite our callers to accompany them, and two accepts but [Frank Woodman|F]] prefers staying away from Dignams, so remains and Sr entertains him with various tales & anecdotes �42 untill he goes home at 9 pm. Our night travelers return at 1/2 past eleven, hungry I think by the clattering I hear in the pantry and so ends the day. Monday 21 March 1898 A very fine day rather cloudy. V plowing down next Franks line fence. Irene counted the eggs 12 doz and after dinner Sr started in buggy with eggs driving up as far as Charleys going to stay all night and go across to Kingston tomorrow morning on steamboat. Martin has just returned from across the river where he had been to corners for letters for himself, he carried a letter from the Post to Windmill & ate dinner there. William Winmill sending Sr a letter. Flora here brought home yeast. Mart and G go to Evelines for soap came back and after that they all dance in kitchen & N goes up in skiff to Marysville. Tuesday 22 March 1898 A cloudy windy day South. Grace washing. Volty plowing. Grace got sore throat. Mart choring around bringing water. Maud at home, E been here 8 weeks this day scuffling again in kitchen. M kicked E & hurt her didnt mean too of course but had to apply a mustard poutice at 12 midnight. Grace got a sore throat too. Sr came home after dark 7 pm �43 Found the roads very rough. Mrs Morgan requested to come down in buggy, but could not accomdate her brought milk pails for Welly & sugar, brought 10 yds toweling, 8 spools white thread and groceries, sold the eggs for 11 cts per doz at Bakers. Wednesday 23 March 1898 A cloudy day after wind & rain all night, a quiet morning. Mart & Volty went the fish nets found no fish, wind sprung up and had to come home without bringing the net. V plowing with the new mare. She rather friskey before the plow with old Jim for pard. The te he ing going on in the kitchen again this afternoon. Mart making good bye calls at Will, Wellies & Franks. Maud, Volty and Edna gathering roots and barks for beer. E scraped the bark off and threw the bark in the stove thinking the wood was the part to make beer. The day cold bleak cloudy & cheerless. Wind North. Evening Mart goes home with Wallace to make a good bye visit. Thursday 24th March 1898 Arose at 4 am got breakfast and V drives over to the dock with Mart & his father. Mart going to Chicago. W Sr �44 hires 25 dollars for Mart payable in three months. V plows all day. Rachel comes over & stays all day, froze last night. 3 pails of sap is the result. Wells Sr bought a two wheeled Vehicle & a tank for the shop store. Friday 25 March 1898 A very fine Morning. Froze last night more sap to day. V plowed all day. Wells Sr drove out in his new dog cart drawn by old Jim gone till 4 Oclock at the foot of island. Misses Mable Morgan & Laura Sauve honored with a visit, stayed till nine pm. George came for them. Frank here too, sang and played on piano. no letters only Whig. Saturday 26 March 1898 looks like rain. V plows till 3 pm then V & Frank start for Marysville dont return till 2 am. cook and do Saturday’s work. Will didn’t go. Jim wanted to go but no way to go. Anne Horn, Hattie Joslin here. more sap, one perch 22 eggs. Sunday 27th 1898 A cloudy day begins to rain toward night. V and Edna go to the net but no fish, 28 eggs Sr goes to Wellies. E and M go to church. Wellie here for tack pullers. �45 1898 Continued from this page in April - October 1898 book Monday 28 March 1898 A rainy day and rained in the night. Expected Lizzy but she didnt come. Tuesday 29 March 1898 A chilly day after the rain to wet to plow. A sugar party at A Joslins this evening. Maud and Edna visiting at Evelines this afternoon. Volty set out bushes. Grace washed. Wells Sr brought in the clothes after dark, wind blowing hard. Wednesday 30 March 1898 A very good day, dressed 3 roosters for market. Lizzie Horn here sewing for Grace, walked home at sunset. Volty and to Marysville. Will goes up with Frank come home at 1/2 past 2 am. Edna visits Shell. Maud visits at Wills. V plowed till starting for Marysville. Thursday 31 March 1898 A very good day rather chilly. Wells Sr, Grace and Edna go to Kingston. Maud and I worked all day. V plowed they came home all right. Volty drove to the dock for them in the evening. Jimmie came and Volty went with him to Franks to practice where they met. Will D, Mr and Mrs Woodman are keeper �46 Friday 8 Oct 1898 A windy day from South. R here washing all day. Flora and Maud went in garden and picked nearly all the tomatoes for Wills folks and the rest are nearly destroyed by the hens. Saturday 9th October 1897 A very cool day in am. pm warmer. Voltie & Grace finished digging potatoes in the berry field. R come over for her clothes which hung on the clothes line all night. Maude & I moped the floors and cooked the meals. After dinner Maude & Grace went for nuts while Irene prepared the supper. Ed W & JDB went to Marysville to the band practice. Wm D & Snub W. went to Marysville to band practice. Cold and dry Wind north. Irene made tomato ketchup and apple jelly. �47 Sunday 10 Octobe 1897 A clear bright day, chilly, wind North. The water in tub froze to thickness of window glass. The season is extremly dry, no rain for a long time. The pastures are dry and brown. The trees are many colors, nuts are ready to fall from the shucks, flowers are dead and frozen, a blue haze or smoke pervades the air and forest fires are raging and destroying property and lives in many places. We kept our beds till 1/2 6 this morning. V built coal fire then Wallace came and stayed awhile & W & V went up island in boat to ask the boys to a husking. Will here a while. Maud gone over to Wills. Ed Weaver here. Grace went to church. Flora came this morning for their bread which V had brought from the villiage. two loaves. Then came Lottie for the other two loaves. Wind West & cold �48 �49 Saturday 6 November 1897 A traveling damsel calls here just at night and stays over night. a loquacious vivacious piece of humanity. She wouldn’t be up to her business if she were otherwise. A traveling agent. Sunday 7 Nov awoke this morning to find a stranger, a young lady tramp to stay over Sunday. She hails from Sydenham and her name is Miss Aleda Woodruff pedling patent right to make imitation of Russian lamb fur or cloth. She knows Mrs Naylor. She keeps house for Brown a half breed Widower with a lot of children. �50 Monday 8 Nov 1897 A chilly raw day. Wind N cloudy rain now and then. V husking corn. Girl went down Island contracted buisness [sic] with Nesbits came back at sunset tired out with long walk. Will and Jen here and Wallace & Miss Woodruff. Cornet playing this Eve. Tuesday 9 Nov 1897 A rainy duty day cold. The girl did not go out on the rampage to day saved for Grace. Wednesday 10 Nov Churned and made butter for market 14 lbs. Girl sewed for Grace. Evening visitors, Wallace, Niles, Shelly Niles, Frank W & Will Robertson �51 Thursday 11 Nov 1879 V drove to the dock with Miss Woodruff and Grace. Maud & I had a time cleaning & picking up after last nights company. A rainy stormy day. V done chores and working in shop. Wallace here & Ed Weaver & Frank Woodman. V drove to dock for Groceries. Grace stayed in the city. Jim Morgan here to supper and stayed all night. Volty drew a load of Wood from the Ross place. The minister & wife called here intending to stop for a visit but as I & Maud were alone, they went away Friday 12 Nov 18 1979 V butchered our pork. Wells Jr & Jim Morgan helped him and then went to Wellies to help Wellie butcher his pork. Wallace & Ed Weaver helped V carry the pork down cellar in the evening. �52 Saturday 13 Nov We cleaned all the floors and moved the dining room table to the kitchen. Sunday 14 Nov 1897 A very fine day for a Nov day. Wallace came and Geo Farr. After dinner V and Wall went over river to Sand Bay with Geo Far. Came home at sundown. One duck which they use for a model to paint after. Evening visitors Wallace, Shell, Edith Pike, Will Robinson, Frank Woodman. Day visitors, Muriel, Hubert. Will’s children here for their cows. �53 Monday 15 Nov 1897 A dark cloudy dismal day looks like rain. V gets the corn stalks stacked at last. Wellie here cleaning a grist, drew it to the dock then went home, came back and helped V with the corn stalks. V went to JN’s to help Wallace run grain through the mill so Wall would help V with the stalks. Ed Weaver here in evening for V to mend his drum (snare drum). Churned. 16 November 1897 Tuesday A rainy day. Wind S and warm. V cut and salted the pork. I wrote a letter to Sr. A tribe of boys here as usual at the shop. Will Dixon here for Sug & brought home a bread loaf, sent Granny a piece of pork. V making a platform for the stove. Grace not home yet. Will Robinson shot & killed V’s pet black bird. Jim Morgan ate dinner here. Frank Woodman here and borrowed a piece of pork. Baked bread. Grace came home with Wallace from the dock. A letter from Katy �54 Wednesday 17 Nov 1897 A very good day. Maude went to school. V worked for Jim Morgan on Frank W’s hog pen. Churned and done general house work. Charley Dixon came & Hubert & Muriel. Evening visitors Will Dixon, Will Robinson, Frank Woodman, Jim Morgan, Ed Weaver, Wallace Niles, Johny Niles Jr, Shelly Niles, Edith Pike, Geo OBrien, Minnie OBrien, Hannah OBrien. band practising with cornetts and drum Jim Morgan ate supper with us. Thursday 18th Nov 1897 A clear cold day; frozen ground. Volty & Frank W drove home Rattray’s bull after V returned from the dock where he had carried the oats to grind for the cows, he is going to fat, and then he plowed nearly all day. Grace helped husk corn for the hogs and cooked the dinner. Maud at school. Grace finished setting a quilt together. Moved the stove out from the corner. The helpers were Will Dixon, Will Robertson, Frank Woodman, WalaceNiles, Jim Morgan, Geo Farr, Ed Weaver, Jack Niles, Charley Dixon, Volty, ShellNiles & Edith Pike. Those young heathens managed to break the piano stool and a lamp chimney. �55 Friday 19 Nov 1897 A snowy day and wind blowing from the East. Welly came up for Grace to go down and help Eveline Tie a quilt comfortable. Eveline sick. Wellie crossed the river after dark for Dr Buchanan. V went for Mrs Morgan. ground white with snow. Saturday 20th Nov 1897 A mild day after the storm of yesterday & last night. Eveline’s baby born this morning 1/2 past 1 on Volties birth day. Voltie rowed up with Mrs Morgan and shingled the hen coop. V & Will Dixon go to Marysville to the band practice. Churned. Cutters out on road this morning, snow disapearing towards night. �56 Sunday 21st Nov 1897 Sunday. Wind S and warm been blowing all night. snow all gone this morning. V came home at half past one a.m. Ed Weaver here. V cutting Ed hair. Send Maud to Wills with head cheese & sausage. Jim Morgan stoped long enough to peep in the window. Wellie here for me but couldnt go. Hatties bean brought her down from Charlies. she is going to work for Eveline. Monday 22nd Nov 1897 Monday 22nd Nov 1897 Not a very bad day, cleaned all the out side windows and washed towels and aprons. Grace at Wellies yet. Hattie came up to Wellies this morning. My birthday. �57 Tuesday 23rd Nov 1897 A half fair day cold. Wellie came for me to dress and wash baby. Then rowed across for Dr B then brought me home and went home and then drove B down island on a collecting tour. Dr got nothing then Jr rowed Dr across the river. V gone to Morgans to chop a load of wood started at two didn’t return till 8 pm. sent Charlie Woodman for him, met him coming home. Wednesday 24 Nov 1897 Wind S.W. and cold blowing a gale. River whtie with crested waves. Grace came home this morning. V gone to Morgans for Wood. Wellie drove up for me. Went down dressed and washed the baby, came home & had a good supper, a warm fire in stove: wind blowing a harycane [sic], went to bed early and slept all night several fires in distance. Thursday 25 Nov 1897 A cloudy day. Wind South. Arose at 1/2 past 4. Plenty wood for stove this morning. Had breakfast early ready before remembered Grace is at home. Then called her. looks like snow or rain. �58 26 Nov 1897 Friday Wellie drove up for me again went down washed and dressed the baby. The wind blowing a gale and increasing. Stayed at Evelines all night. Wind lulled towards night. Wellie plowed & V plowed. Eveline has a head ache. Do all can for her. Relieved towards night. Sat up and W. Jr made her bed. Alvira came towards eve brought apples, Talman sweets, baked, some taste like kerosine 27 Saturday Nov 1897 At Wellie’s this morning, stay all day & all night. Made 1 apple pie, 1 berry pie, 1 custard pie. Hirams Joslins wife, Isabella, came and stayed nearly all afternoon. Wellie made Evelines bed, then he came up home and he & Volty worked in shop till 11 Oclock pm. The baby is a week old. �59 Sunday 28 Nov 1897 A very good day for the season. Edy Bates & Eben Bates & Frank Vanalstine came across this morning. After breakfast Hattie went home and to church. Irene got the dinner, washed and dressed the baby &c after church. Hattie came home accompanied by Miss Maitland a very odd young Lady who stayed awhile and then went to Wellington Burhams (her boarding place). Wellie brought me home in waggon. Hubert and Muriel coming to Found Vanalstine 29 Monday Nov Wind blowing a harricane [sic] this morning. Dont believe the boys got across last night after Edwards court ship so late at Gillespies. Vanalstine did not leave here till 10 pm. 30 Friday �60 Friday 1 Dec 1897 Worked hard all day churning & making out butter for market, butter hard frozen, had to cut it and thaw it by the stove, made 27 lbs. Thursday 2nd December 1897 Arose early 1/2 4 and hurry around to get to the boat. Maud and I work all day. Maud expected a new music book but got none. Grace carried 27 lbs butter to market. sold it at 16 per lb. 3rd Friday �61 Saturday 4 Sunday 5 Grace Monday 6 Nov �62 Tuesday 7 Nov Wednesday 8 Nov Thursday 9 Nov arose at 3 am. V going to Kingston on Pierpont, walked to wharf and carried a basket of fowls and shats to be barn dried, 4 lengths of stove pipe & the baritone cornett. Irene fed hogs but Jr came up and done the chores. Grace is better. V came home at nearly 8 pm. J Morgan here in eve and after supper they go down to Franks to blow horns. V come back at 11 pm at last the house is quiet and all is well. Geo Niles came home to day, came on Pierpont. Friday 10 Nov 1897 A cloudy day, sun shining out now and then. V plowing but drove to dock for wheat from Rosedale wreck. A dance at Horn’s. Moved the stove coal again. Callers WmD-W.N.-FW.-WmR -J Morgan Ed W. & P Burnham. No letters only from Hannah �63 Saturday 11 December 1897 A rainy day. Wind South and blowing. The boy’s cannot go to Marysville this afternoon which is a sad disapointment to them. V at the shop working at something or other. Grace taking carpet off stair steps and tidying up the rooms. Maud at her music lessons. Irene churning and the rain falling, filling the tubs and pails, not cold but a sad dreary out look. Evening. The horn blowers are here again in full force viz Will Dixon, Jim Morgan, Frank Woodman, Wm Robertson, and V.B. blew till 1/2 past 10 then pedro’ed till 1/2 past 11 pm. F.W.s horn made my head yank, Ed Weaver walked to Marysville got done with Woodmans. Sunday 12 December 1897 A quiet cloudy day. A gentle north wind with scarcely a ripple on the river. Wallace & George Niles came and stayed awhile then Geo proceeded to B Horn’s and after doing the chores Volty & Wallace went across the river to H Dodge’s returned at 8 pm. Evening guests Wallace Niles & Will Robertson. V went to Jr for stove pipe. �64 Monday 13 December 1897 A fine quiet morning a very light wind & North, sunlight peeping through the clouds at intervals. We are washing. We were up fitness this morning, ate breakfast by lamplight. Maude gone to Wills for soap. V gone to A Joslins with pig crate came home and plowed the remainder of the day. Will D went to River view for shingles, nails & bought 5 gallons for Welly. Evening visistors NONE. Grace & I washed and brought water from river. A lovely day more like June weather than December Tuesday 14th Dec 1897 A rainy morning, wind N.E., mudy raw morning. We have a fire in coal stove but scarcly any wood for kitchen stove. Sr not home yet. Voltie plowing all fore noon. Afternoon goes to Morgans for wood Mid day. raining steadily, tub, boiler and pools overflowing with water. Shell N came down for sage. Dried a pumkin and fried a pan full of cakes. Grace folded the clothes to iron. V brought them in last night at bed time. V working in shop all pm. Evening all the horn blowers go to Will D. �65 Wednesday 15 December 1897 Get out early this morning. V does the chores at the barn & milks the cows. After breakfast V goes to Uncle Sams for big kettle and the mail [illegible] for wood toward the dock. Knockee out [illegible] old stumps, enough to heat water for butchering and also keep the kitchen stove going two days. Butchered 5 hogs—helpers were Will and Frank & Jimmie and Wellie. Evening visitors were Will and Jen. Jimmie came back stayed all night, and helped V do the chores. A very fine day for out door work. Thursday 16 th Out of bed at 4 am. Jim helped V do chores and load the hogs for waggon for market. V gone to K & Jim gone to K and Niles gone to K. Will & Charley here, gave Charley a pumpkin. Wellie came up & done chores. A cloudy day all mud. Wind S. The wreck of the Rosedale was towed down by here to day in charge of three tugs, was towed stern first constantly pumping. Volty came 1/2 past 7 pm. Expected the father but he did not come. �66 Friday 17th Dec 1897 Ground slightfully frozen this morning. V plowing. Grace washing. Irene finished rendering the lard. Hubert & Muriel came for the hard soap V got for them in K and the curry comb. cloudy very little wind North. Wish & hope Wells Sr will come home to day. Maude taking her music lesson. A heavy fall of snow in pm. Good sleighing. V had to stop plowing for snowstorm. Will here to tea. Jimmie Morgan & Wallace came and Voltie went with them to Franks, Wells not home yet. Saturday 18th December 1897 A cloudy morning. Ground white with snow. Wells may come to day—hope so. wind west and moderatley cold, Growing colder, clouds clearing away. Will walked to Marysville. Martin came home this pm. Card brought him down in the evening. V & M go up to J.N’s �67 Sunday 19 December 1897 The coldest night and morning yet this season. Froze in kitchen. Left all the bulbs in kitchen on the shelf; the dirt frozen around them but the plants are all right. This must not happen again. Think the white Geranium is done for froze stiff as a stick. Wallace came down and Martin and Grace & Wallace went to Wellies, after they all were gone Charley came down bringing Rachel and Will, left them at home and came back and stayed to dinner. Directly after dinner he went home. Mart came up from Jr with Wallace and went home with him. Stayed till evening. Evening visitors Frank Woodman & Wallace & Shell came home with Martin. 11 Oclock saw them outside the door enroute for home. Grace came home at sundown Monday 20 December 1897 A stormy snowy day. Mart and Voltie went to Morgan’s Ross place for wood. We churned. Afternoon Voltie went to help Will butcher pig. After doing the chores Voltie & Mart went down to visit Frank. Evening visitors Will & Charley came to blow horn but no one here to blow with. �68 Tuesday 21 December 1897 A clear cold day afternoon warmer. V borrowed a bag of coal of Niles, went up in boat for it. Then V went to Charley Woodman wood bee. Sent a letter to Johny as a Christmas greeting. After dinner Mart went to the bee and from there went with Geo Niles to Al Joslins to a party. Al not at home gone to John Songcist. Frank and Jimmie here blowing with V. Will not here. The boys went to the door and in concert tried to blow him over here. Grace ironed clothes &c. Made pumpkin pies. Wednesday 22nd December Work hard all fore noon making out 20 lbs butter for market. Grace, V & Will D and Frank W all go to Marysville—boy’s going to play for the concert. Grace going to K on the 1/2 past 4 boat going to dentist and stay all night with Nellie. �69 Thursday 23rd December 1897 A cloudy morning. Arose at 4 to get breakfast for Jesse Reid & Martin, both going to Kingston. V arose late nearly 8 o’clock. Maud and I work all day. Churn bring down the lounge cook &c. V drives to dock we expect the father to come home with them but he cometh not and I’m not aweary. Wellie went to Kingston. Jesse came first rode with Niles. Christmas presents from Edna, Lill, Nellie. Friday 24th December 1897 A clear very cold day, windows thickly covered with frost. River steaming. Jesse Reid at noon crossed the river. V drove to Wellies for a plank. Grace fixing the room anddressing Muriels doll. V and M working in shop. Bamford not home. Winter grand bright beautiful and severe, sometimes gloomy. The Earth has yielded up her offering of bountious abundance and and now snow covered, frost bound, V came home at 1/2 1 this morning & present from Maye to Grace. �70 Saturday 25 December 1897 A thick morning, snowing, river steaming, cold, wind blowing, from South, white caps rolling. Chicken roasted for dinner. Wells Jr came home just after our Christmas dinner. Glad to see him home once more. He came as a Christmas present here but not for me. Mrs Adams sent a present to your humble servant. Mrs W.B. Sr a pair of shells, art decorated most beautifully. In evening Grace and Mart went to Mrs Niles, sttayed till 9 pm. V went to Frank’s, found no one home, waited awhile then came home. Sr brought V a gold watch. Mrs Adams is the fathers paramour Sunday 26 December 1897 A cloudy still day not cold. If the sun would out it would thaw. Sr reading Utica Globe. Maud gone to Wills visiting. �71 Monday 27 Dec 1897 Tuesday 28 Dec 1897 �72 Wednesday 29 Dec 1897 Thursday 30 Dec 1897 A dirty, windy, rainy, snowy, day, slush slush everywhere. Shell Niles 16 years old to day: going to have a birth day party. �73 Friday 31 Dec 1897 A quiet cloudy day looks like snow. I’m laid up with sprained ancle [sic]: almost believe it is broken—hope not. Wells made Wills folks a visit this forenoon. Hubert & Muriel came up with Wellie. ancle painfull. Did not sleep any last night. Grace finishing the washing. Mrs Morgan came to get a horse shod, stayed to supper and till 8 pm. Bob Robinson here till late. Saturday 1 Jan 1898 A long lonesome tiresome day, laid up in bed in latter part of the day. Evening visitors two Morgans here to supper, Bernard and Jim. Bernard stays till late 10 or more, wish he’d go home. Will came over. Well and Voltie played on bugles and at the same time Grace entertained B.M. with piano music and as I am between the two kinds of music each playing different airs at the same time. We are charmed. Forget Shelly here nearly all pm. Sunday 2 January 1898 Sun rose clear, a fine morning, but soon clouds and snow �74 falling thick and fast. Mart goes to church. Wallace comes home with him and stays to dinner and nearly all p.m. Monday 3rd January 1897 Election day. Will gone to election, our boys stayed home. School open to day at lower school and here. Mrs Gordon boards at Niles. Volty working on Ratrays bobs. Welly came up. Tuesday 4 Jan 1897 Cloudy snowing some. A dance at Horns. Grace, Volty, & Martin go with the Niles load. Welly came and brought wormwood. Jimmie Morgan came in evening with his bugle & disapointed to find all gone to Horns’. Wednesday 5 Jan 1897 This day like the preceding I sitting a cripple by the stove with foot on small chair. V think he ought to go to the �75 practice at Marysville but stays at home instead. Frank and Jim go to the practice. A moderate day looks like a storm. Voltie works on bobs. Thursday 6 Jan 1898 A stormy day. Rachel came over going to stay till after E Weavers dance at the ferry. V worked on bobs. This day same old thing. No ice in river. The river has frozen over and thawed broken up several times. Friday 7 Jan 1898 A beautiful fair day in afternoon. Wall & Grace go to Belles to supper and from there To Ed Weavers dance in McLarens hall. Bernard came to invite to a raising tomorrow (Saturday). G Niles & L Horn & Hattie J & Jim Taylor & VoltieMartin & Will Dixon and Frank Woodman gone to �76 Ed’s dance. A letter from John and Flora. Saturday 8th Jan 1898 A cloudy morning toward noon. It rains a big body of ice floating down and lodged from shore to shore. Our youngsters came home at daylight and went to bed. Grace has a slight cold, finish the chair cover. Wind blowing a gale from South. Grace arose at two pm and worked till bed time. Sunday 9th 1898 January A clear bright day not cold, ground nearly bare. Grace has a bad cold. lies on lounge nearly all day. Rachel & Maude get the meals. The boys shot a duck will pick and cook it tomorrow. Wallace came and stayed a short time. the ancle [sic] is a little better, river clear. next day duck no good, threw it to the cats and they had a cat fight & quarrel over the duck and we had a stewed rooster instead of duck. �77 Monday 19 Jan 1898 A fair day, warm, river frozen across but no good: a quiet day Wells Sr banked the front of house. Bernard Morgan here and invited V to a raising a log horse barn. Volty went. My foot may be better but swelled yet. Rachel here. Grace much better. Martin doing chores. Maud cleaned lamps and helped wash dishes. Welly drove to our school with Muriel & Hubert this morning. Will’s children made a start for school too, going to Section No 8. Mr Pedro at Will Dixon’s playing Pede Tuesday 11 January 1898 A fine day, bright, clear and cold. Wind North. Voltie and Wallace cross the river on ice down by Horns on jam ice. Wallace gone to St Lawrence for medicine for his father (Mr Treders) Wellington, Mr Horn and Lizzie came across too. They are the first foot passengers this season. In Evening Wallace came down on skates. Coming around the point, he broke through and wet one foot. after drying feet, Wall & Martin went to post office and then Martin went home with Wallace to play with Mr Pedro. Grace washed Rachel hung out the clothes �78 Mart went to Geo Rattrays to mill. Volty in evening shelled two bushels of corn for mill. A black cloud rising in South. sewed rugs and knit lace for Belles. Wednesday 12 Jan 1898 A rainy morning ground all mud with dirty streaks of snow and ice scattered all around. V drove to Geo R’s with corn and brought home the ground provender, wheat, peas, corn and oats a mixed mess. Welly here shoeing horse, raining hard, clothes all hanging out. P.M. Rachel went home, drove home with Welly. George and Wallace here this evening playing pede with V & Mart. A bad time for Dany Hughy’s dance. Thursday 13th Jan 1898 A cloudy morning. Wind N ground covered with snow. Welly drove to school with children. River ice broken from shore to shore, bad crossing from Marysville to Kingston. Two weeks to day since sprained ankle. Frank came home today been gone since Weavers dance, said he never drank so much whiskey before. �79 Friday 14 January 1898 A cloudy day, not cold. Maude carried letters to post: sent one to her father. Mart and Grace went to Marysville to workmans ball. Maude & Wells Sr got supper. No letters only for Sr. V working on bobs. Saturday 15 Jan 1898 Stormy day of snow which will make fine sleighing. Mart and Grace came at 1/2 past nine this am. Wills butchered another pig. Charley came for a butcher knife. Grace slept from 12 noon till five. Mart slept from 10 till three oclock pm V. working in shop on Geo Rattrays bob sleigh, snows fast and evenly: no wind a north [?] All went to bed early. Welly came up for kerosine said Muriel & Hubert are sick with cold Sunday 16 Jan 1898 A beautiful winter day, clear bright cloudless: the fields are spotless a dazzling white blanket of snow covers the earth & every roof and clings to the trees. Wind cold and north very little wind. Sleighs are cutters and out on the road, going up and down road. Mart went to church and from there went �80 Mart didnt come home with the others this morning stayed to go to the Cape to dance. May Wormwith Grace E Bamford 185 University Avenue Kingston Ont Mrs Geromind Feb 15 30 lbs sugar 25 lb salt 1 pk onions 1 1/2 doz currants lemons 2 lb cheese baking powder broom diamond dye cardinal & green �81 [printed inside cover of diary including advertisements] Boston Fur Store George Mills & Co 170 Wellington St 170. Furs and Mantles Furs and Cloaks Mantles, Latest Styles, Coaks, Lowest prices The Boston Hat Store Noted for low prices The exact spot to get your Boots is at Abernethy’s, 127 Princess Street, Offord’s old stand. The low price shoe George Mills & Co’y 170 Wellington Street Noted for Low Prices Nobby Hats Sole Agents in Kingston for Celebrated Marsland Stiff and Soft Felt hats. Boys School Caps. 15c., 20c., and 25c. Empire Typewriter $55 Visible Writing, Strong Manifolder. It will pay you to see it before buyig... Columbia & Hartford Bicycles Good Repair Shop. J.R.C. Dobbs & Co., 44 Clarence Street �82 [back cover of diary with manfacturers stamp] Red Rope Magazine Binder Manufactured by Gaylord Bros. Inc. Syracuse, N.Y. Stockton, Calif. �83 �This document would not be possible without the editorial contributions of the following people: Ann Hopkinson, MaryV, Eric Irvine, Vivian Zhang, and Queen’s University Archives � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Collection Subject The topic of the resource 19th and 20th Century Rural Ontario Diaries Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Courtesy of Queen's University Archives Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1887-1922 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Frontenac County, Wolfe Island, Ontario Table Of Contents A list of subunits of the resource. Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1887 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1888-1889 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1889-1897 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1890 March - June Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1893-1895 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1895-1899 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1896 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1897-1898 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1898 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1899 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1899-1900 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1900 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1902, 1906 parts of Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1902-1909 parts of Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1904-1905 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1907 & 1918 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1908-1919 parts of Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1911 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1913 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1913-1914 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1915-1916 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1916-1917 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1917-1918 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1918 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1921-1922 Language A language of the resource English Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1897-1898 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Courtesy of Queen's University Archives Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1897-1898 Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 19th Century, Frontenac County, Wolfe Island, Ontario Date Created Date of creation of the resource. October 9th, 1897 begins on p 46 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Collection Medium The material or physical carrier of the resource. Typed Transcription UG Transcription Progress Scripto transcription progress Done transcribed https://ruraldiaries.lib.uoguelph.ca/transcribe/files/original/d3b50bb7b7efd958876722b8402a518b.pdf 58a27758c7cae9b274d8f7dbbf85901b PDF Text Text Irene Dixon Bamford 1896, Diary Transcription 5034_4-1-5 �Metadata FromThePage export of 5034_4-1-5 from Irene Dixon Bamford made on 2026-02-11 14:35:09 UTC. itemTitle: 1896 date: 1896 Title: 5034_4-1-5 Description: Item is a diary. Created On: 2023-10-03 13:03:00 UTC In Scope: true Uploaded Filename: 5034_4-1-5 �page_0001 [Queen’s University Archive File Folder] Irene Dixon Bamford Diary 1896 1896 [stamp] Queen’s University Archives Locator 5034-4 Box 1 File 5 �page_0002 1896 �page_0003 �page_0004 [seal: R Date 1896 Sealed with Gulfwax] Continued. 3 [binding tape has obscured the writing on the left margin, it will be indicated with #] #kes his leave, going to call on Yonger #lks & from thence to uncle Sammy’s. Tonight we would be alone this eve #t not so evening visitors Frank Woodman, Ed Weaver. Leather land #yed pedro till eleven P.M. Leather # all night. Thursday 6 Dec 1896 Cloudy wind #South 7 Oclock this morning # I call Devolson. Leatherland # stays till 12 noon day and after a # cordial hand shaking all round # leave again for Kingston # at uncle Sammy’s for his # ’sack instead went to Niles to # his dinner and thence to Geo Gillespie # evening we are alone quietly G poped # full of corn �page_0005 Monday 7 Decr 1986 warm morning. Awoke this morning to find the ground white with snow. A sort of wierd [sic] ghostly morning. The trees and shrubery were never so beautiful in leafy month of June, though more lasting, than this morning when when every tiniest branch is drooping under the pure whitening of snow. Saw Leatherend peg leging off up the road this morning. Will and Devol went to run nets but got nothing. Wellie went to Niles for his tools V called at Margans for cutter fills . I got to churn and work over butter, butter no good, cream no good, threw 6 pans of milk and cream to the hogs. �page_0006 Tuesday 8 Nov 1996 [illegible scribblings] �page_0007 Wednesday 9th Dec 1896 A day of all work, butter and Fowls to dress for market. Voltie goes to Niles and buys a rug for Nellie which I will give her for a Christmas present, sending it tomorrow. Maud sick with quinoa. A dirty day cloudy and looks like rain and does rain like jehy before dark and after dark. Thursday 10 Dec 1896 A lovely day after the rain of last night. We arose at 4 breakfast ready in a few minutes after the fire is built and they load on their batter and turkeys, 14 butter and 3 turks leaving Maud and I alone & Maud is sick with sore throat. Will drove the team home from dock and stayed awhile and told ghost story. I work hard all day, stew and hang up pumpkins. Bamford bought a new stove to day and Wellie, Will, Voltie & friends set tarp. Brought Morgans groceries in basket basket. �page_0008 Thursday Dec 10th Almond Joslin here to dinner. Will came over and helped put up the stove pipe. Friday 11 December 1896 A fine day. Arose at four a.m., routed the family, got breakfast early and V gets on the road at half past six a.m. enroute for Kingston with the cattle which he sold Burnside Wednesday. Welling & Perley & Percy Gillespie also drive cattle and they all go in company to Marysville. Devers wanted the boys to drive his cattle but "got left". Maud quite sick with tonsilitis quinsey. School teacher came after school to make a visit. Jim Morgan came for his tea. Frank here too in evening. V came after dark. Saturday 12 December 1896 A warm day, very fine for December. Maude better to day. Grace scoured pantry floor with brush, made cookies. I worked all day except showing Alice the mistery [sic] of lace knitting. Jim Morgan rowed down with a skiff for his basket of groceries and V helped him carry the basket to the river. V plowed in afternoon. Uncle Samy plowing with 2 teams all day. �page_0009 8 Sunday 13 Dec 1896 A fine quiet day cloudy all day and looks like a rainstorm. Miss Foley here. Will here too & Wells Jr, Grace & Will popped corn. Maud better much better. Would like to go over and see mother but the roads are muddy so Will says. V towards sundown goes to Wills for kerosine. Monday 14 December 1896 A beautiful clear sun bright day. After breakfast Voltie goes to corners for oil. C Woodman goes with him. Took R Percy’s rig. V brought 10 gallons for himself. C & Devolson ate dinner at R Perceys. R Percy not at home. Returned at 1/2 past one p.m. �page_0010 9 I fell and nearly broke my neck, the veranda post saved me by the hand of providence, I scaped. Sustained a doubled and twisted wrenching of the back and hip beside bruising shin rather badly. Good for rheumatism. V brought Maud rock candy and lemons. Miss Foley stayed with us till this morning. Grace washed clothes. W Sr puttying glass for double windows. A beautiful sunset - and moonlight night. Moon in second quarter since Friday. V plowed after he came back from the corners, every furrow turned now will not have to be done in spring. Geo Niles and [Johny Niles|[John Jr Niles]] called here on their way to Wills to play pedro, John Sr having preceeded them. After supper V accompanies them to Wills. Johny Niles brought Grace a letter, an invitation from Mary Dignum to visit her tomorrow eve with Voltie Saying Miss Foley will be there too �page_0011 10 Tuesday 15th December 1896 A cold frozen morning, ground bare and a very cold day: frost on windows, water in washdish frozen & bilged. I am not quite so lame as yesterday. Patched vest and pants for Voltie, finished the lace for the apron & worked it and partly sewed it on. W Sr preparing double windows and cellar window. V drew wood from old orchard, apple trees that the heavy winds have blown over. Grace cleaned chamber and white washed her bedroom. Will here this evening. I made head cheese. Maud had a fit of pouts, poor dear Maude. Wills little ones at school to day. They must have been very cold, poor little dears. A very cold night and river steaming cloudy. Grace ironing this eve after making two underwaists. Well thank God we are warm and comfortable this night. V couldnt have crossed the river this day. �page_0012 11 Thursday 27 Aug 96 A fine day. Grace & Maud Harry & Fred & Marjorie all go to Kingston leaving Voltie and I at home alone. Didnt send any butter to market this morning, butter too soft. Friday 28 Aug 96 Wednesday 16 December 1896 A clear cold day, ground bare and hard frozen. Samy butchering. Ed Weaver here for butcher knife. Wellie called on his way to get his pay of Niles for carpenter work. Got nothing. Niles going to pay him some tomorrow. W Sr fixing over an old bedstead. Wellie and Voltie cleaning a grist for milk to send to Kingston tomorrow. I got to churn and make out a little butter for market. Jesse Reid came back with the other fisher from �page_0013 12 Saturday 29 Aug 96 way back Jesse Reid here to supper. Rachel came over for butter print. I going to use it, sent Charley & Flora in evening for print. Volty this evening gone with Reid to Niles to play pedro. Ground bare no snow. Maud had nose bleed. Reid came back with V to stay over night. Sunday 30 Aug 96 Thursday 17 Dec 1896 A gloriously fine day cold still and sunbright. Arose at 4. Jess Reid stayed to do the chores. Such a talker his tongue is like a bell clapper that is continualy ringing. Dont like him the dirty fraud. He goes down cellar often for cider. He is drunk on cider and he’s on the loungue snoring. Oh I could write a chapter about this day will some time. �page_0014 13 Monday 31 Aug 96 Tuesday 1 September A very good day. Voltie went to foot of Island for wood but got none, some body had taken it all. �page_0015 Wednesday 2 September 96 Churned and made 45 lbs of butter for market. Charlie came over for butter print. Voltie gone to Kingston: started horse back borrowed Cavalry’s covered buggy, returned just after dark. Jim Morgan here: bought some beef of him. Jess Reid drove up the cows and Jess and Leatherland milked all the cows which was a kindness indeed. V paid the 2.50 R.V.R. �page_0016 15 Thursday 3 September 96 Raining from South quite warm weather so much so that the butter is soft, but Grace takes 39 lbs to market which she sells for 18 cts per lb in bulk leaving 6 lbs home. A very rainy day filling the large milk can in short time towards evening clears up. A wet day for their carnival in Kingston. Ferry boat does not leave the city till 6 p.m. and nearly nine when Grace arrives home with V from the dock. Saw Harry in town and called on Harry’s grandma and aunts. Maude stays home on account of rain. Jess Reid here most of the day. Letherland helped Voltie milk this morning. Voltie drove hoe Cavalrys buggy. �page_0017 16 Friday 4 Sept 1876 A beautiful cool day after the heavy rain storm of yesterday. Maud at school and learning very well: going to keep her at school every day when the weather is fine. Our work to day is preserving pears, churning and general house work. Plenty of work to be done those days in doors and out. Orchard loaded with apples to be gathered and the finest of them stowed way in the cellar in barrels, some made in cider & many dried besides giving to our numerous friends. And there are potatoes corn and turnips to harvest, pumpkins to dry, sweet corn to dry &c &c &c. Mail. a letter for Harry and the Whig. V goes over to Mr Dignam’s to get Herb to help dig potatoes tomorrow. Vitsitors Jess Reid here this evening for leads and sinkers. �page_0018 17 Saturday 5 September 1896 Herb came over to help Voltie dig potatoes. Dug till noon, rain came pouring down. Reid came over & the boys all go to the shop (after sitting in house awhile) where V has been at work a long time. Raining all p.m. quite steadily. Our house work is churning, working butter, cleaning floors, digging corn, patching V pants. Want to wash a few things but Will has got our wash tub with fish nets in. Maud ciphering in redirections. Voltie milked all the cows 9 of them for Charlie. drove in here from the foot of island and Grace went home with him. Charlie had been to Clayton to look for a pot or valise belonging to a Mr Gibson whom Charlie is rowing. Wind South. Maud went to Wellies for a potatoe fork. Charlie Dixon & Flora here at dark through the rain for yeast cakes & apples. Wellie here this a.m. worrying over our business troubles. Says Nick Mosier been cleaned out on account of his debts �page_0019 18 Sunday 6 September 96 A cloudy squally looking day. Wind blowing fresh from South West and increasing to nearly a gale towards night. Reid here all a.m. Wallace N made a call and they all talk fish talk. V goes over to the other orchard. Reid goes with him. Maude and I walk down through the orchard as far as the old maple. The trees are binding under their load of apples this year. Return to the house and get dinner ready just as V comes back from the old orchard. After dinner Reid comes back and stays till bed time. Henry H brings Grace from at dark. Very glad she came. �page_0020 19 Monday 7 September 96 A beautiful day breezy from South. Grace washing. Greenwood here and served summons on Bamford in favor of Tom Hatfield: but I dont care how things goes now days. I’m content: my children are big enough and old enough by God’s help to take care of themselves. Voltie digging potatoes in the orchard. Will & Jess R are fishing. Lottie, Ethel, Muriel and Hubert here. Wellington, Burnham and Perley are here cleaning grain at our grainery. Churned again to day. �page_0021 20 Tuesday 8 September 96 A beautiful September day warm and bright. The pastures and meadows green as in June. Churned again to day Voltie digging potatoes. Maud at school. Dont know what Welles is doing. Reid here talking to Voltie all afternoon & says grandmother is better. Voltie gone to Wellies: when came back said he been cooning. A letter from the Gov says he is not very well. I’m sorry. Wednesday 9 Sept 96 Arose at 1/2 past 5 am another lovely day: churned again, mushrooms are plenty. V, digging potatoes. Noon very warm, butter somewhat soft. Wellie drawing grain (pease) for J.N. Maud at school. Mrs Niles and Shelly made us an evening call. �page_0022 21 Thursday 10 September 96 A delightful day - afternoon extremely warm and cloudless with scarcely a breath of wind: river like a mirror. Grace gone to market with 88 lbs butter. Maud at School. Will & Reid fishing. Voltie digging potatoes. Irene churned again and worked very hard and am so very tired. Rachel came home this evening on the ferry Boat accompanied by a young maid of the forrest. Reid gone to the Cape with Weaver: came home on the square. Jen & Eveline went to market with butter. This is the Princess tess trip. Sold butter for 18 cts per lb. Friday 11 September 96 A very fine day just breezy enough to be pleasant, clear and cloudless and warm. Leatherland here to dinner. Maud finished potatoe digging. Maude at school. �page_0023 and Jess Reid went to the Cape in Niles skiff. Wind strong from North, sailed up & rowed home. Returned 1/2 past nine p.m. All abed but I. A very hard pull from the Cape against heavy sea. Voltie wet from head to foot, bought a fine pair boots, said Mrs Harnny had a stroke to day. Sunday 13 September 96 A windy morning. Wind North. Very glad to find Voltie home this morning. We are alone nearly all day, towards evening Grace goes over to Will Dixons accompanied by Maud. Voltie milks all the cows. Wallace came to make us an evening call. Soon Grace came back bringing Rachel & Ansan Maricle a full blood squaw from Deseronto. Then came Jesse Reid and Will Dixon and Wallace stayed also till 10 Oclock Had night mare Sunday night 2 Oclock V woke me up. �page_0024 23 Monday 14th September 96 A warm day. Wind S churned butter soft. V makes a barrel of cider vinegar. Sarah Gillespie came up and cut and made my dress skirt, went home at dark and will not be back till Friday. Maud at school. S.D. Woodman & George Williams went with Weaver in the yacht across the river to Millens Bay. Tuesday 15 September 96 Wind North, weather delightfuly pleasant. Maud at School Voltie making cider. Grace getting the meals and working on Mauds dress. Irene not well, sick all last night (eating to much green corn) lots of work to be done this day: churning, canning tomatoes, making catsup. Went to bed awhile. Jess Reid here. Rachel and the "abrigonie" [sic] visiting at Evelines. Voltie churned. Grace took care of butter. This swarm like bees in June. �page_0025 24 Wednesday 16 September 96 Dont fell very well but work all day, churn and make 32 prints for market. Rachel, Jesse Reid and Mrs Marrickle gone to the Cape with fish in Niles skiff. Came home at dark towing behind Weavers scow yacht. Rachel got a new dress ready made Thursday 17 September 96 Grace and Maud gone to Kingston. Sent 32 pounds of butter to market. Voltie and I alone all day. V went to Niles for his beans that he had threshed in Niles barn. V churned. Irene worked hard all day, cleaned floor & washed. Rachel and the squaw went to the city. Pierpont makes her first fall trip. We had to get up at four this morning for the boat comes in at six sharp with old McKenzie for spouter. Grace brought home a basket of peaches. Watson came home with Grace (enroute forSyracuseMicheal Corneil �page_0026 Friday 18 Sept 96 A mellow yellow warm hazy day. Wind S. V repaired his skiff with coal tar: perfume not pleasant. Jesse Reid borrowed the skiff and has gone to the Cape. I gave him his $190 dollars, glad he has it some how I dont like him. Ignorant unprincipled and vicious. Rachel here a few minutes & carried home a part of water. V fixed his punt. Will cleaning fish at river. Sarah G finished my dress and gone home. Maud at school. Saturday 19 September 96 Awoke in night to find the rain pouring down & a rainy morning and a sunny day. Harry Watson here and cannot go over to Dr Buchanan to day. James Morgan stays all night & ate breakfast with us this morning. Will & Charles here this morning and borrowed our big basket. Irene churned. Grace & Maud doing housework. Voltie working in shop all a.m. makes an apple dryer. Grace cooks corned beef, potatoes & cabbage for dinner and custard pie. �page_0027 26 Sunday 20 September 96 A chilly morning but fair, not much wind this morning. Harry & Voltie ate dinner at Wellies and Harry goes across the river with Mr Maloney’s boys in skiff. Voltie comes home at milking time driving home the cows. River is rough this afternoon, a strong wind from the West. Rachel and Jen came over and stayed till after supper. Monday 21 Sept 96 A cool day but fine. Grace got a cold and sore throat. Reid came across river this am wind blowing strong from S.W. Maud at school. Voltie cutting up corn. Grace and Irene make tomato catsup and can sweet apples and churn. Grace, Voltie & Maud gone to prayer meeting and I am alone with the dogs for company this evening. �page_0028 27 Tuesday 22 September 96 Wind North. A very chilly day. Churn in kitchen. Grace trying a log cabin quilt. Jess Reid here visiting nearly all afternoon wish he’d go home. Churned. Maud at school. Voltie making cider. Wednesday 23rd September 96 Rather cold day. Wind North. Churn and print butter for market 30 lbs. put up a bag of apples to give away besides a loaf of bread, a lb of butter, a can of new milk: send Maud early in morning to Wills for the print & Jen & Will after it in evening. A chilly evening. We put up the butter in the baskets and get every thing ready for morning. Maud at school this day. Did not attend church this evening. �page_0029 28 Thursday 24th Sept 96 Rather a nasty morning raining. Get out bed at four clock. Grace to Kingston to market 30 lbs butter Carries Mrs Piggott a bag of apples and a small private basket besides. Voltie bought a bushel of tomatoes of J Wilkinson and brings them on Waggon from dock & two apple barrels. Grace bought a new 6 chairs $400.00 Maud stays home from school, church steeple raised today. Friday 25 Sept 96 A mild day, broken clouds. Wind South. A fine autumn day. Pickling and canning nearly all day. Maud home. There is no school today. Teacher gone home. Voltie fixing the waggon. Grace washed small washing & got dinner, afer dinner went to Mr George Gillespies to see Dora, found her better. Dr Buchanan there. �page_0030 29 Saturday 26 September 96 A cloudy forenoon. After dinner Bell, Charley and their children came down home. Charley went home leaving them here. Rain comes pouring filling tub in a short time. Grace got a bad cold. Jess Reid helped Jim, Devolson milk which was a favor for Grace. churned. Sunday 27 September 96 A dull rainy day but we are comfortably and happy and noisy, the children cant get out door much to day so wet but they venture for a few mushrooms. Evening visitors Jess Reid and Florence Morgan and Wallace Niles �page_0031 30 Monday 28 September 96 A very fine day quite mild and sunny. The little girls attend school 4 of them. Skim milk, churn, sweep, make beds and get dinner, soup for dinner. Voltie & Wellie gone to Kingston in waggon started late but came home quite early. Grace had to go over to the grange for cows. Mr Niles came for cider mill and made us a call. Tuesday 29 September 96 A very mild calm day. Voltie early this morning rowed Belle and baby Grace across the river to Mrs Gloyds. Marjorie, Beatrice & Maud gone school leaving Charlie & Irene here at home. Wellie makes us a call and feels much better after going to Kingston about their office business. Irene B does house work. Grace gets dinner and irons clothes and starch and irons J.D.’s shirt and her white dress. Reid and Weaver gone �page_0032 31 to Cape Vincent with fish. Our youngsters are all going to Beads point, Hickory Island to a party at Hicks 2 Oclock p.m. Cloudy, warm just a breath of air South. Weaver & Reid just returned from Cape. Voltie went to Wellies for a barrel of swill. I am writing while I sit on veranda beginning to rain just as the party embark for Hicks, bids fair for a a nasty night. Wednesday 30 September 96 Rain pouring all night in torrents. Wind blowing heavy from North. Came home at half past 4 o’clock am. Weaver tumbled them all out, leaving them to get home best they could in a drenching rain storm and wind strong enough to lift them off their feet. Voltie stays aboard to help Weaver down to Joslins bay with the yacht. Florence comes in with Grace. Will Niles, George �page_0033 32 & Jim & Bernard Morgan & Mabel & Alice go home in skiff and nearly get swamped. With great anxiety I await Volties return. About daylight he comes thank God. Wet, cold and hungry: none of the party having had a morsel to eat since leaving home last night. Grace & Florence devoured a loaf of bread, 1/2 lb butter and an apple pie. No female women to greet them on their arrival at the grand ball only male men Rick’s body guard. But Oh it was providential and I am thankful. At half past 5 wind changed to South and tore things right and left. Such a gale of wind seldom calls here, the river white and flying spray, unroofing barns, demolishing others, uprooting trees, taking every apple from trees, weakening ever obstacle in the way, waves on river running 20 feet high and dashing on the rocks shore with such tremendous force, the water was thrown above the tall cedars �page_0034 32 on the high shore. Weavers yacht turned bottom side up rolling the engine clean out in the the mud. Thursday October 1896 A quiet morning. Gloyd’s (ie James & Charley) brought Bell and Gracie home and a grain bag full of litterature. JamesDevolson drove with Grace to the dock. In afternoon Bell and Gracie went visiting to Wells Children at school. Belle much worried about the storm and the trip to Beads point. �page_0035 34 Friday 2nd October 96 A cool day. Belle gone to Evelines accompanied by Marjorie and Gracie. Beatrice crying to go. Children picking up apples gathering nuts, mushrooms. Voltie shingling for Niles. Will and Reid here for team to draw fish from dock. Belle came home tired out carrying Gracie Saturday 3rd October 1896 Not a pleasant day, chilly. Charley came for Belle and the children couldnt carry all their apples and tomatoes and forget their chicken. Voltie and Wellie working for Niles repairing his barn. Henry Halliday at Niles making cider. Drove here for Bells apples ought to have taken three instead of two. Voltie & Jim OBrien went to bay for oil. Jesse Reid here in evening also Collfer and another lad wanting the skiff to go to Bay: dog made a row. �page_0036 35 Sunday 4th October 1896 An autumn day very cool & dull. Jesse Reid here. Malony’s boys brought Dr Watson over. Very quiet after Belle and her children go home but we are seldom alone. Frank Woodsman here. Will Dixon here and they all drink cider. Oh well not very quiet Sunday after all. Monday 5th Oct 1896 A cloudy day. Wind North. Our house is never free from visitors or our guest chamber free from a sleeper. Harry W here. Jesse Reid here. Indian here camping in our cedars. Voltie shingling Niles barn. Wellie threshing for Breaky. Grace and Reid chasing a chicken. They yet work on church steeple. Wellington Burnham here. �page_0037 36 Tuesday 6th October 1896 A cloudy spotted kind of a day over head. Wind North, moderately cold or weather medium or merly [sic] straddle of the fence. Voltie drawing manure all day. Maud at school. Irene churned, skimmed milk, strained milk, washing milk pans & made jelly. Grace sewed. In evening Voltie went to J Niles and played poker till 10 p.m. Ed Weaver called for V this evening to go tomorrow to Marysville to play baseball but he will not be such a dunce. Wednesday 7th October 1896 Wind North changing to west. A rainy morning and rainy cheerless chilly day. The woods are turning crimson golden scarlet and a sunset brown, and bronze green, most beautiful. Churned and made thirty two lbs of butter for market. Jesse Reid and Will Dixon here Ethel brought home the butter print. The pasture is green as June. Grace �page_0038 37 finished my dress and I put it on. Maud at home washing dishes and writing a letter to her father. A base ball game was to be played to day at the Ferry and a dancing in the evening. Grace washed a few things. Voltie had a D-l of a time looking up his razor. A nasty dirty afternoon weather. Well I must get up and skim the milk. Glad the milk is in the pantry. What hurry hurry worry the days are from morning till night. Henry out of bed when one could sleep an hour or two longer with so much comfort. Henry to get the milk skimed. Henry to get breakfast. Hurry to wash milk pans and strain milk, hurry to churn. Come hustle around and get the chow chow going Come Maud hurry up- get ready for school. Come hurry and get the dishes washed, and get the dinner and then more dishes to wash again, an interval of making jelly or catsup or preserving then more pans to skim, empty and �page_0039 38 wash, another meal to get more dishes to wash and if you can catch a little time between each mentioned job why there is sewing, darning, patching, apple and pumpkins to dry and saying must put a quilt on the frames. next week sure come put wood in stove and make a rousing fire or the bread will run over and step around now for the floor, chairs and windows must be cleaned. and I’m sure we will have to do a big washing tomorrow. and about entertaining visitors. I’ll keep dark and not say one word Well now this is only in door work. �page_0040 39 Thursday 8 October 96 Slept out bed at 7 am, a cold cloudy dark morning been raining all night. I drove to dock with Grace and Harry. Maud at home. Eveline and Will Dixon gone to Kingston. Eveline carried her carpet rags to the city to have her carpet woven. Maud works well all day. Wellie came up after breakfast. Muriel and Hubert are with him. Voltie and Wellie go to Geo Gillespies to thresh. Wellie came back and the children go home with him. V goes with Jesse Reid to help him run his nets and load the fish in to the waggon and draw them here. Jesse helps draw manure and milk the cows. Eddy Bates ate supper with us and then they go to the dock for Grace. �page_0041 40 Friday 9th Oct 1896 A very fine October dewy & Wind N V and W Jr thresh for Geo Gillespie. Jesse and Wall here. John McDonel here for bags. Maud and Grace go for hickory nuts after dinner. Irene makes chow chow. A letter from Bamford he is not very well. A letter from Mrs Naylor Brown. Ed Weaver here a few minutes this eve. McGlynn came down to see Wall & Jesse Reid about fishing. Go to bed early and have a most refreshing sleep all night. Saturday 10 October 1896 Another beautiful day, Wind N. V gone to thresh for Geo Rattray Leatherland gave us a call this morning. Jesse came for them to draw their nets home from Breakey Bay obliged to haul them out the river easily. �page_0042 41 this morning started at 4 p.m. Reid couldn’t catch the white mare & had to go back home for Will to do the catching. Wish Leatherland would go instead of standing holding door open all day. Grace cleaning floors. Maud washing breakfast dishes. Irene baking chow chow, worked over butter & churned. Reid came over in the evening for V to go to Niles to play "pede" he calls it ("pede") But Reid was here earlier in the day & not well pleased because I had lent the skiff to McCuen, Flynn & Mrs Dignam when Reid was anxious to go to Cape Vincent with fish. I had forgoten all about it for Will or Reid didnt ask for the boat. So they cleaned what fish the had on hand and put them on ice. Working yet on steeple. Eddy’s last day on steeple. Now going to work for Dignam. Wind blowing quite strong from N at eventide. �page_0043 42 Sunday 11 Oct 1896 Quite a pleasant day. Wind N Arose at 1/2 past six a.m. Hustled around & helped get breakfast, skimmed milk, washed pans, strained milk, washed pots and Maud washes breakfast dishes and then Maud and I walk over to Wills. I’m very lame but manage to get there after awhile. As I was leaving my own door. I met Jess Reid coming in. Well I found them all well and comfortable only no wood, only what the children pickup out back and no water except carrying it from the river which is awful hard work to get wood or water. I had fine visit and had chicken pot pie for dinner and sweet apples preserved whole and as our appetites were ravenous we enjoyed our dinner. Reid & V came also to dinner and after a time or two Grace came, she having been down to Evelines and called at Niles on her return trip. Jess Reid here this evening. Grace got a pain in shoulder. Will �page_0044 43 and Charlie accompanied Maud & I home. Grace having gone home before us so we all had a little toast, coffee & cider and good night. Monday 12 Oct 1896 1/2 past 5 a.m. Wind North and strong breeze: cold but not freezing a dismal melancholy autumn day cloudy and threatning storm. Pastures green as June and cows doing well, flow of milk much better than earlier in season. Voltie gone threshing for Geo Rattray. Grace not well but trying to wash: brought some water and obliged to lie down while Jesse Reid here all a.m. an incesant talker but brought 4 pails of water, fed the hogs and brought in wood and now has gone home to help Will dig potatoes. Will & Charley had the team to draw wood. Jess was very kind. John Niles Sr plowing all day. Jesse & Voltie went to J Niles to play pede. Irene churned 12 lbs of butter. Jess drove �page_0045 44 home our cows. Wellie here too Clarence Emma want you to come down and bring mort with you from Edith Tuesday 13 Oct 1896 A raw windy day. North wind. Partly cloudy. Voltie threshing for Geo. Rattrays. Jesse Reid here. Maud home from school to day. Wellie here came up for waggon to draw wood. Grace sewing for Maud - making Maud a dress and finished it. In evening Maud and Grace go to post office. Hattie Joslin Miss Abott, Will Dixon and Wallace Niles came back with them. A chilly eve Jess Reid ate supper with us & then Reid and V went to John Wilkinson’s and played pedro. V came home at 1/2 11 pm. �page_0046 45 Wednesday 14 Oct 1896 Quite a fine day warmer than yesterday. Thought we were gong to have company for a skiff rowed directly here from over the way, which proved to be Mr Gloyd bringing two women across. They had great difficulty landing at the consession [sic], the women went to J Niles and James Gloyd rowed home again. V drawing corn and sorting and bagging apples for Belle and barreling some for himself. Jess Reid went to Cape Vincent with their last load of fish for this season returned quite early. Tomorrow Reid and Will depart for "Devil Lake" fishing and hunting. Jesse Reid here this afternoon and again this evening. If I should express my mind in this diary about a certain individual it would not be a very pleasant reflection on paper. June pares apples for drying. Maud at school. Grace sweeps , dusts, mops, gets the meals. Irene churns and prints 29 lbs for market. V retires early & so ends the day. Painting the church. �page_0047 46 Thursday the 15th of Oct 1896 The loviliest [sic] Oct day I ever saw and last evening there was was the loviliest sunset: bright crimson, purple, scarlet and gold and the reflection on the water of our little bay was enchanting lasting till daylight was gone. Voltie gone threshing for Ed Rattray. V drove to the dock with Grace, carrying Bells apples and a basket of posies and a few apples for Kelly. Jess Reid & Will Dixon started this morning for their fishing tour. Well I wish them good luck and success. Painting church and building new chimney. Maud gone school and I alone all day. every thing so quiet so peaceful when was I ever all alone before. The house is still except for the buzzing of the flies in the window. Once in a while a day like this alone is enjoyable but I think I would grow tired of the monotony of day after day: but I always was fond of soltitude if not to prolonged �page_0048 47 Miss Foley here to tea and after supper Miss Foley & Maud go over in waggon with Voltie to the dock and they do not return till after 8 p.m. A letter from Belle and a bag of provisions, pork, squashes & carrots. Lent Miss Foley some books, 3 of them. Jen came home to day. Friday 16 October 1896 A cloudy morning and rather cold but not freezing. V gathering apples Wind West. Still painting the church steeple white, slate, green, red the mineretts are black. Churned. Grace made V a shirt. Maude at school: cold and certain mild clouds all day. Dignam people has a dance this night. I got a cold. Evening mail - The Whig & a letter from Dr Watson. �page_0049 48 Saturday 17 October 1896 Another autumn day more clouds than sun shine, not freezing but cold. Voltie drove to the dock for the dry goods box and the barrel of cement: rolled his barrel of apples together, 12 barrels in all. After dinner V drew manure out to the field. Grace washed a general washing and cleaned floors. Maude washed dinner dishes and went to Wills for horse nails. Wellie here for waggon to draw his potatoes that White is digging for him: they are the spaff Joy potatoes. Irene paired more apples to day. Still painting the church and taking down the staging after them. �page_0050 49 Sunday 18 Oct 1896 Mother, Voltie & Maud gone over to Belle’s. Mother going to remain for a weak [sic]. So I will write in her diary when I think of it. This day a very disagreeable one. Sun under clouds, and wind blowing cold from West. Snowed a little last night. I stay alone all day. Voltie & Maud come home about 3.30 p.m. In morning, Wellie & Wallace Niles here a few minutes Monday 19 Oct 96 Voltie & Grace arise at 4.30 in morning. Grace gets breakfast and milk 4 cows, have breakfast a little after six. Then Maud washed dishes & goes to school. Grace scims [sic] milk, prepares to strain. Voltie goes to Woodman to thresh in forenoon he finishes �page_0051 50 Sunday continued Voltie’s shirt then after dinner works over butter and churns a big lot of cream. then sits down to write in this diary in a hurry? takes butter out of the churn. I am all alone again today with the exception of flies & two dogs & dozen cats. When we arose, the ground was frozen with a heavy white frost, the wind was West. later it changed to South, the sun shone out bright, warm nearly the whole day. Men still working at church tearing away staging and the chimney or rebuilding it. I cant tell exactly which. Voltie came home from Woodmans early. Wells Jr & Bob Ranons came with him. �page_0052 51 Tuesday 20 1896 The wind blowing a gale from south, Maud gone to school. We did not arise so early as usual on account company last evening. The Morgans, four of them, Miss M Foley, F Woodman, Rob Ranous, Will Niles & C hella, Geo Farr were here and danced until elevan [sic]. Voltie threshing after dinner at Woodmans come home for his supper in forenoon. Wellie, Eddie & Voltie drawing up grain for Scow, all here for dinner. I saw in evening while V goes for mail. No mail tonight. V & Maud peel pumpkins. �page_0053 52 I prepare churn for cream at noon. V churns. I work over the other butter, then take care of the nut butter, stitched Maud’s dress & fit her a petticoat, make a cake for dance at OBriens tonight. Wallace Niles came down this morning before breakfast asked me to go to dance. So Maud & I are to have an escort, very kind of him. Miss Alice Foley & Florance Morgan are over Watertown, N.Y. were to come home today. But wind blowing so heavy from South West cant come. cleaned the floors. 22nd 1896 Oct Thursday Did not arise until 7 oclock after dance feel sleepy, got home at 3 in a.m. Windy cold from West. Granpa �page_0054 did not go to Kingston today. the 1st Thursday since the boat started in spring. Make breakfast at 8. V goes to Niles for cider mill. Maud lays in bed until all hours in day. got out at 11 a.m. Wallace Niles came down after dinner, helped V make cider. E Bates here too. Frank W drove in here for drink cider, another dance tomorrow eve at A Joslins. Geo home getting it up. Grace cleaned Ma’s bedroom and done general house work. Eveline & Wells both went to Kingston today. Hattie keeping house for her. �page_0055 54 Friday 23rd Oct 1896 Wind South, rather nice day. Maud gone school. Miss Foley came home last night from Watertown via Kingston. Walls Jr here this morning went to Niles for flour and carried home cider mill. Voltie repairing thing around farm in fore noon, after dinner drawing his potatoes to the cellar from barn. Grace did house work, swept all rooms, cooked, washed dishes, took care of milk, & helped milk, made jelly, baked beans & write in Ma diary. Flora came over brought home tea Aunt R borrowed. In Eve Voltie & Wall go to Joslin’s dance. Rachel came over a stayed with Maud & I, rec’d letter from Ma N & Laura V.Y. �page_0056 55 [top margin] Jaune Morgan here likes night playing pedro until 10, ate his supper here & helps with drinking jug of cider. Saturday 24 Oct 1896 In morning quite nice then clouds up & rains a little. Wind West after noon quite pleasant, great squalls of wind. Aunt Rachel stayed until after breakfast. Voltie gets home from dance 4 a.m. arise at 6. Grace gets up 5.30, builds fire, gets the breakfast then milks. Voltie shoeing horses most of day. G churns, bakes bread & does all Saturdays work. Sunday 26 Oct 1896 Wind still West quite pleasant out. We did not arise vary [sic] early, after breakfast V goes to the marsh. F Woodman & E.W. arrive here all day smoking setting in the way. Miriam gone home �page_0057 56 Frank stays for supper, just as we were going to eat, D Mahoney came so we waited and he took tea with us, stayed the evening. F W went home, a lot of cider found it way down the boys throat and so on & so forth. Monday 25 1896 Oct. Wind South. Sun bright a very nice day. Maud gone to school. V drawing manure. Grace churns, make cookies and all kinds of work. Alice Foley came home with Maud from school. Alice helps M wash dishes while G milks after supper. Jim Morgan comes to play Pedro & drink cider. Grace pops corn �page_0058 57 dont go to bed until nearly eleven. Tuesday 26 1896 Arise a 4 a.m., milk cows, get breakfasat, help saw wood, eat breakfast at 5.30. Maud & Alice do their breakfast at 7 a.m. Voltie brought 6 pails of water. then went to Kingston via Marysville. After Alice & M are gone to school, G goes to washing, wash all day, all lines full, bushes full & some clothes on fence. Most a beautiful day, river like glass all day. G brought 10 pails water from river, milks 7 cows at night. Jim Woodman down for two lbs butter, had no way of weighing so guessed it. Great Horse trots to villiage to-day. �page_0059 58 Wednesday 27th at Belles Thursday 28 at Bells �page_0060 59 at Bells Friday 29th at Bells Saturday 30 �page_0061 60 Sunday Nov 1 Came hoome fro Belles to day. Charley brought me. Martha Irvine laid in the vault to day. Charley drove in to Irvine yard and we drove down behind the funeral procession. We found Miss Foley here. Charley stayed to dinner. When he went home Miss Foley rode in buggy as far as Morgans consession [sic] road. Rachel here a while. Monday 2nd November A beautiful autumn day. Voltie mixing cement for the wall. Wells Jr went to J Niles to do some carpenter work for him, found the folks gone to the Card Ranous weding except John Sr - so came back and help V. Mary Farr (Widow) there keeping house for shower. Hank drives down for Shell to go to wedding. �page_0062 65 Tuesday 3rd November 1896 Wells Jr working for Niles all day. No soap cant wash. Wednesday 4th November 1896 A warm hazy morning like Indian Summer. Got out bed 1/2 past four a.m. V commenced plowing and butchered 2 turkeys and 8 chickens. Grace and Irene dressed them for market, churned and made 20 lbs of print butter for market. Rachel here and brought the quilting frames home again, not doing enough. Rachel & Will drew wood from the McClary place. Charlie and Maud at school - great spelling match. V working for Nile carpenter at �page_0063 62 Thursday 5th November 1896 Arose at 4 Oclock a.m. Raining fast. Voltie & Grace milked the cows. Ma tied the turkeys and chicks and put them in basket, then print up the butter for market. Thought they never get started, cant find any thing. V’s neck tie missing, cant be found, had to look and hunt around for socks. V taking his new clothes back. Too small. Found coat and vest in the clothes press and pants hanging on a nail in mothers bedroom. Had to look around for whiffletrees, load a grist to put on the waggon, eat breakfast finally at 6 Oclock, got under way through rain and mud. Will drove over. When Will drove team back, said they just arrived in time for the boat. A rainy nasty day. Half sick all day pain in back, but work all day like jehu. Maud home from school and helped me work. Maud brought water and I clean floors. Supper waiting when �page_0064 65 they arrive safe and sound. Will drove home the cows and put them in stanchions. Harry came home from Kingston enroute for St Lawrence N.A. X 7 p.m. A heavy and temendous storm of wind began just after they came in from the boat, blowing a hurricane and raining all night. Friday 6th November 1896 A wild wild morning Wind S and blowing a tempest. Harry never before saw the reiver so rough and the rolling waves dash so high against the shore. A chilly day and we are glad to gather around the kitchen fire. We take our time and dont work very hard to day. Maud home from school. Grace poped [sic] corn white as a snow drift. A letter from Dad and the Whig is all our mail. McKinley presedent [sic] of the United States my dear native Rand, my eyes behold the [illegible] the shore �page_0065 64 [random scribblings] 1/2 1/2 1111111 1 1/2 Saturday 7th November 1896 A quiet day after yesterday’s wind storm. V rowed across the river with Dr Watson nearly noon when he came back. Brought from Gloyd’s a tub of picklelill’s for Belle. We smouged some for dinner. Very good. Harry by request called at Charles Woodman’s to see the sick baby, little Pearl. Malony’s drove Dr W to the Bay to report before driving to St Lawrence hamlet. V plowed all p.m. Grace cleaned floors, a peaceful happy day. V drove to Wills for cabbage 75 cts to pay. Sunday 8th November 1896 A sad quiet lonely day sombre and dreary out doors. A typical Nov day. Shell and Inez came while Grace went down to see little Pearl Woodman. Thinks she has consumption. Sylvia Woodman Sr there �page_0066 65 Monday 9 Nov 1896 A medium day. Voltie plowed and Wells building barn for Niles. Maud at school, cleaning cabbage for sourkrout. Grace and Irene cut nine heads cabbage into the barrel and wait till evening to finish. Will & Charley came over to help make krout but Wall Niles came and they all left and went to Wills to play pedro and left the cabbage to take care of itself the kitchen. V came home at 1/2 past 10 pm and found us all abed for we had no wood to build a fire and he went down on shore for wood and got around to his own bed at 12 midnight, took the small clock up stairs to get out of bed by old clock, ran down or stoped. got out bed at daylight. �page_0067 66 Tuesday 10 November 1896 V plowing and drawing wood from Devilo’s. Grace and I got cabbage ready for the barrel and cut it up (at night) with knives on kneading board and old kitchen table (I.O.) V and I did the cabbage. A letter from Capt W.B. Wednesday 11 November 1896 A very nasty a.m. raining hard filling tube in short time. V in shop shoeing old James. Will & Charley here. Will telling some of his back woods experience. One was about the man that was very friendly and well acquainted with her Royal Majesty Queen Victoria Sovereign Ruler of England and Empress of India. �page_0068 65 Thursday Nov 12 1896 Market day but Grace stays home. no butter for market to day - packing it in crock. Grace done big washing and all on the lines. Will gone back to the woods and lakes to day. Ed Bates came across riv to day. Said by CrimasDr Watson was driving down the river road as if he was sent fore in hurry and Buchanan driving the opposite direction like all [?]. Jen Dixon, Sylvia Woodman Sr and Frank Woodman went to Kingston. F.W. & J.M. & E & W. here paying [sic] cards till 9 p.m. Grace drove over to dock with V, carried apples to Capt Allen De Rush here drinking cider. Lottie here got V & Harrys clothes from them. V clothes all right but coat sleeves not right. V coat sleeves to long and too small at the top, got to go to the shop again. V drew wood from Devero’ Friday 13 November 1896 A drizzly half rain, half snowy day. Wind light from all points of the compass. N. E. S & W Not cold. Voltie shot two wild ducks which we roasted for dinner. Volt plowing this a.m. Going to kill a pig this p.m. Wellie working on Jonah’s barn but is coming down to help V butcher. Maud at school. The clouds look dreary and heavy with rain. Think V will get tired of waiting for Jr to heave in sight. Wellie here killing �page_0069 68 continued half Irene pared 3 pumkins to dry. Grace knitting and skiming milk. Very chilly raw day. Wind North. Clouds dark, low and rolling along from North to south ward. Cows broke in straw stack again last night. Evening. V and G after discussing the matter conclude to make Dignams an evening visit accordingly. V borrowed F.W.’s buggy and hastily doing the chores and speedily getting supper they depart for Dignam’s leaving Maud and I alone to clear the table and wash the dishes and entertain ourselves till bed time. At last every thing is finished, dishes put away, hearth and floor swept and a cheerful fire burning brightly in stove. Maud remarking how warm, cheerful and cosy we were. Maud reading her lesson to Grandma while she knit the lace for the Christmas apron as a gift to Grandma Dixon. Prince and Tiny are comfortably snoozing, each on an old rug which Maud has spread for them. When rap rap rap upon the door anounces an unwelcome visitor and �page_0070 69 by request Maud timidly advances to the door which upon opening a young man enters dressed in the height of fashion, his neck enveloped in a white muffler, his head covered with a very close fitting cap which by way of greeting he makes no attempt to remove. After saying good evening, and offering a chair of which he seems to take no notice but standing like one confounded or dazed. I make the discovery that I am addressing Mr Herbert Dignam and I forth with proceed to inform him that his people are honored by evening guests, that Grace and Voltie had gone to their place for a visit. Why, said Herb "George Morgan told me Bamfords folks were having a dance to night" Well said I, this does not look much like it does it, and there upon he took his departure. With the fire replenished we were once more comfortably settled. �page_0071 70 Maud reading Daffy down dilly when rap rap rap once again assails the door which Maud again proceeds to open, which this time admits the genial smiling face of Jimmy Morgan which I have no difficulty in recognizing. Where are all the folks asks Jim in his hearty off hand way. Gone to Dignams replied I. Come and please be seated. "Why I was told you were having a dance here to night and as I was at the Post Office and while so near thought I’d come in awhile" ’Sorry James you are disapointed James said I but we have no dance here and dont know as we ever will have. Well, said Jim, "I’ll go home and read the Whig (which he was carrying in his hand.) and there upon he took his departure. One more Maud and I are quietly engaged each in our respective work. Maud saying I wonder who’ll come next. �page_0072 71 when rap rap rap again thunders at the door, and Maud who has again commenced reading about old Mr Foil once more goes to the door saying Oh dear and upon being opened in walks Florence Morgan, Miss Foley, George Morgan, Bernard Morgan and a young Mr Lerush with whom I was duly made acquainted. Well I began by this time to think there was most assuredly going to be a dance at Bamford as Mr Lerush carried a fiddle case under his coat sleeve. Surprize and disapointment at not finding V & G at home was plainly shown in their manner but they were made as welcome as the flowers in May inviting them to be seated and disencumber themselves of their wraps "Florence remarking" Well we have got left this time" another saying "Guess we’ll go home "Oh no" said the hostess "you can dance just as well though I think I’ll not set the stove our door to night, so after sitting awhile in scilent [sic] disapointment �page_0073 72 they made a merry jest of it and laid aside their overcoats, caps and mufflers. Mr Lerush began to draw the fiddle bow and I cleared away the chairs and all other movable obstacles and Geo and Miss Foley danced a whirlagig but Bernard and Florence made no response and they worried out 2 long hours and at last concluded to go home. I politely said I would invite them into the parlor but we had not yet set up our coal stove and the rooms excepting the kitchen were very cold to invite guest into for an evening’s entertainment but though the kitchen was warm and cozzy it was hardly the place for a party as over head were suspended baskets of pop corn, dried apples and pendant strings of yellow pumpking drying on the poles and long traces of pop corn hanging on the wall besides two bags of feathers &c &c. at last they took their departure and I came to understand that my surprise �page_0074 73 party was a failure and Maud, the dogs and I are alone and and tis over the moonlight and allmost midnight & time Maud & I were abed two hours and a half ago. Saturday 14 Nov Great fun over to Dignams music, wine & cakes but Saturday work must be done so we fly around and bake, mop floors, churn and iron after awhile I am informed that V & Grace going up to Morgans to make an evenings visit & as the evening is quite mild I dont object. V saying he would walk as far as Niles, and invite Wallace and Shella to accompany them. About two hours after going the wind commenced blowing from south, and before midnight increasing to a gale and as it is Saturday eve, think they ought to be home by one Oclock a.m. Wind blowing fearfuly, cant sleep thinking perhaps they have started for home in the skiff and have been overwhelmed, swamped by a tremendous breaker after awhile began to think V should be here if G had to stay at Morg’s all night. When the dogs anounces their safe return and I find they walked all the way up & back together with Wall & Shell �page_0075 74 Sunday 15 Nov 1896 I think this is a very lonely day Wallace Niles here awhile this a.m. Walls and V lunch and then go down the Island in Niles buggy to invite to a dance at Will Dixons tommorrow evening. Grace, Maud and I alone all the balance of the day. We breakfasted at 9 Oclock this morning and went to bed early. I didnot sleep much last even. I found Geo Farr was here with Wall but went home and across the river. Monday 16th A very fine day. V digging turnips all day. Wind blowing hard from South. A dance at Will Dixon’s to night each girl got to carry their own supper. Great preperation [sic] for the dance. L. Lerush, Jim Morgan, Wallace Niles, Shell Niles and Geo Farr called here to go with G & V. Maud crying because she cannot go to the �page_0076 75 dance which on account of the cider from Uncle Sammy’s about 12 Oclock midnight they Morgans began to feel like old Ireland at Election time. Jim Morgan pitched into Lew Lerush and James Morgan backed by his brother Bernard Alowasius tore the shirt of Lerush and the neck ties and collars flew in all directions with hair, black eyes and bloody noses, after being put out door again renewed the combat in the mud. they rolled each other over and more hair, blood & mud and oaths noise and hard names and they kept it up till the party dispersed Jim sneaking of to the scow with Lerush. Tuesday 17 Nov V and Grace came home from Wills Dixons about 4 am accompanied by Mary Dignam. Well before they settled down for a nap I learned that there had been a grand Irish row and nearly all the company were participants in the fight and all the Morgans had blackened eyes, broken noses and bloody faces. Whiskey and cider in plenty. Mary D stayed nearly all day and the conversation was principally about the party, what this one done and that one said. How Bernard made an ass of himself. Micke Hensey, John Coffer and Friendship had a row on their own account. �page_0077 76 Wednesday 18 A fine warm day. Wind South doors open to the weather all day, very mild like Indian summer. V drawing turnips all day. I try to get butter churned and print made early, couldnt do it. Rachel here sewing on machine. Shell Niles here for books. Inez with Shell. wrote a letter to Bamford. Very disagreeable weather this evening. Wind blowing half a gale and raining, pouring in torrents. Volty drove over to Dignams with Grace & her butter and a grist for the logs and for the house. Thurday 19 Nov Not so very bad day after last night storm of wind and rain. Voltie plowed all day. Grace gone to Kingston only 20 lbs butter this week. Been filling jar with butter for winter. Maud and I work all day cleaning up pantry and drying pumpkins beside we washed, ironed, moped pantry and kitchen floors. V milked cows early and goes to dock for Grace and we have every thing ready on the table for tea. �page_0078 Continued - Wallace and Geo Farr gone to the back woods and lakes of Canada fishing, carried with them a barrel of fish nets, guns, ammunition &c &c Friday 20 Nov 1896 A quite pleasant Nov day. Grace cooking all fore noon for a surprise party at Bells this eve. We get dinner early, and Grace fills her "basket with apples, pie & cake and goes aross the fields to Uncle Sammy’s, and goes up with the mail as far as Berry’s Corners, and walks the rest of the way carrying the basket which must have been very heavy. I think it must have been a surprize to Belle and the children when they saw her come in so unexpectedly, the company were not many only V, and G, & Shell, Frank, Ed Weaver, Geo Morgan & Alice F, Hank & Dick Halliday, Lewis & Dick Lerush and Hanks’ lad Jim Hunter. Rachel came over awhile. Maud and I alone all the evening and all night. Maud at school. A letter from Wells Sr �page_0079 78 Gr GBamford Saturday 21 Nov 1896 West wind and and a snow storm, first of the season, snow falling thick and fast, fields and trees covered white with snow every where. how wintery. Voltie trying to get the turkey and chicks in to the hen house. Wellie went to Niles came back stoped long enough to help V move coal stove in place and set it up. didn’t get up very early. V slept till 1/2 past 6 a.m. Grace sleeping till 10 a.m. V took Shella to the party. Sunday 22nd November 1896 A cold wintry morning, fields and trees covered with snow far and wide. Not much wind North. Sleighs and cutters flying over the road all day. We expected company, but said �page_0080 79 party of "one" did not put in an appearance. We did not cry over it but rather rejoiced at our happy disapointment at least mother Rena did although we all looked, and Volty even went to the door and called aloud to our guest "But he cometh not and we were not aweary" on his account. But another came with "Pa’s son in law" who became very much "awearied" himself while awaiting for "Hunk to conclude his long evening courtship at Jonar’s and was just on the point of retiring for the night when Son in law Hank drove to the door. Supose Dignams were sadly, not glady, diapointed and "Mary was awearied for he came not" �page_0081 80 Monday 23rd Nov 1896 A breezy day, ground white with snow far and wide. Maude at school. V drove down to Wellies in cutter for saw steelyards and brought back a bottle of Kerosine. Cleaned the hen house, sawed the old cherry tree for fire wood. Frank W helped him after dinner. V goes up to help Frank make a stable door. Slightly thawing. Quarterly meeting held here this afternoon. Sun shining Wind South & blowing. Dark in the North Barameter high but falling. Wellie & John Burnham here for big kettle and butcher knives. Going to kill pigs tomorrow. A dance tomorrow night at Mike O’Briens. V drove for Maude and Wills childrens but met them coming from school. Bernard got a bad face Wind blowing strong from south to night and rain on the windows. �page_0082 81 Tuesday 24 Nov 1896 Wind South, raining and thawing all night: awoke this morning to find the ground clear of snow and the pastures and meadows green as a May day. V plowing. Rachel here for flour in exchange for cabbge. Rachel is quilting for Mrs Lib Pillar . We patch, churn, knit lace. Maud writing the story at the "Deserted villiage" Voltie goes to the post office. Only a letter for Grace from Miss Stella Healy Buffalo. Maude has a fit of tee hee hee. Wednesday 25 Nov 1896 Arose at 5 Oclock a.m. & ate breakfast by lamplight. V done all the chores and is plowing. Maude gone to school. Wind North and wind blowing & hailing raining which think will end in a rain storm Which turns to frozen �page_0083 82 Knitted Quilt rain which makes it very difficult to stand or walk. We were surprised to see Harry coming in just before dinner and pleased to see him Harry coming over to see Charley Woodmans little girl who died this afternoon. Grace mended H’s mackintosh that he had torn on the wire frence. Rachel came over just at eventide for the butter print. Grace gone down to Charley Woodmans to help them, and Voltie also went this evening and Maude and I are again alone. Sat up till nine Oclock not much fire and rather uncomfortably cold Sat up reading a Novel Little Wee Wiffe tay Miss Rosa Nauchelle Carey. To sentimental, but Hugh Redmond is a character drawn true to life. �page_0084 83 Thursday 26 November 1896 Grace & Voltie came home this morning from D Woodmans at 4 Oclock and went to bed. I arose at 7 build a fire and got breakfast well under way when V gets up. Earth and trees covered thickly with ice completely encased. Maud gets up early enough to eat her breakfast and starts immediatley to school. The weather proves to be delightfully fair Sun shining out warm and clear from a cloudless sky. Scarcely a ripple on the river. The ice dropping from the trees in showers as the warm sun light loosens it and the grass is green again. Can & tub soon filled with water as the ice rapidly melts on the roof. Grace arose at 9 and is now washing a few things. Jen & Eveline gone to Kingston. Thanks giving day throughout the United States and Canada Flora came over to bring the butter print get the shortning. �page_0085 84 Friday 27 November 1896 Wind blowing strong from South all night, got up at 1/2 past 5 Oclock a.m. went immediatley and brought in the clothes from the line raining some. Grace, Voltie and Maud go to the funeral. Raining hard as can pour down. Procession past along the road in the rain. Mary & Herbet brought Grace home in carriage which is a kindness and a favor. They stay and eat dinner with us. Al Joslin, Rube McFadden, Wellie come home with V and go to the cellar for cider and then go home without coming in to the house. Herb and Mary stay till towards night then go home. Grace got a bad cold. Roast wild duck for dinner, which our guests will not partake of as it is Friday. Night very dark and cloudy. Finished the lace this eve. �page_0086 85 Saturday 28 Nov 1896 A chilly day not freezing cloudy and a little rain this morning, cleared up and Voltie plowed all day. A letter from Fred S. Maud went to Evelines and brought Harrys group of photos of the McGill Medical graduates. No kerosine. Made candles which give very good light. Grace cleaned floors and washed a few things. A letter from dad- in Chicago- dont know when he will come home. Went after dark and brought in the clothes from line. Sunday 29 November 1896 A cold morning arose at 7. Wind North. froze hard last night, frost on windows, cloudy nearly all day. A very quiet sabath, no one here. V & G & M & myself alone all day. I wrote a long letter to John. Grace wrote to her father and Maud gave the letter to The Rev Mr Cornell to post early tomorrow morning. Grace wrote two more letters this eve, one to Stella and one to Alen. �page_0087 86 Knitted Edging Cast on 20 stitches & knit across plain 1. Slip 1, k1, over twice, p2tog, k1*k2 bind (sl the first of the last two sts over the 2nd) k1 bind, k1 bind, k4 sts in next stitch thus k1p1 k1p1 repeat from * k1, O twice, p2tog, k2 2 row S1, k1, O twice, p2tog, k12* O twice p2tog, k2 3 row Sl1, k1, O twice, p2tog, k1*k4 in next stitch k2 bind, k1 bind, k1 bind, repeat from * k1, O twice, p2tog, k2 fourth and sixth rows - Like second Fifth row like first row 7 row, Like third row eighth row - With the empty needle take up three loops on the side or along the lower edge that has just been knit, throw thread around needle to make a stitch, p1, k2 stitches in next stitch, thus (p1, k1), over twice, p1 �page_0088 87 Ninth row - Over twice, p2tog, k2, O twice, p2tog turn letting the 20 stitches remain on needle, knit the six stitches back and forth like ninth row until the strip has 15 loops on the side. drop the last loop at the outer eddge each time across. 10 row - Take up 14 loops on the needle that has 20 stitches long the edge where the 6 stitches were just knit back and forth. k1, sl. this stitch on left hand needle and turn 13 loops off on this stitch, draw thread up close knit two tog, k1, over twice, p2tog, k12, O twice, p2tog, k2 11 row Like first row to 20th stitch, k3tog, turn 12 row knit back, like second row except slip1.k2 then over twice &c 13 row Like third row to 20 stitch, k2tog. turn 14 row Knit back like 12 row 15 row like first row to 20 stitch k2tog turn 16 row knit back like 12th row 17 row like 3rd row to 20th stitch, k2tog, drop last st. 18 row like 2nd row except sl 1, n then O twice &c repeat from 1 row �page_0089 88 Shella Challa Chella Niles St Lawrance May Wormwith 185 University Ave Kingston Ont. May Wormwith G Grace D Bamford G Monday 30 Nov 1896 Wells come home to us unexpectedly. Bill Card boy brought him. Cold day, Wind north. Volty intended to go across the river for oil with Niles but John failed to put in an appearance. Maud at school. J.N. Jr called here for the stone boat. John N Sr came here in morning called on his way to Wellies �page_0090 2 Friday 4th December 1896 Wind North Cloudy ground covered with snow. V drove to dock for coal. W Sr built a fire in coal stove which we enjoy right royally. Will came over and Charley too. Related some of his ghost adventures. Jess Reid going to stay in the Wilds of Canada all winter. Grace [illegible] Tuesday 1 December 1/2 past 7 Oclock am when we arose. A very cold morning, half sunshine. Water froze in our dish. Snow squalls. V gone over Devero’s for wood. Wells Sr gone Wellies & Wills to make his annual visit. Wellie called here on his way to J. Niles to finish a job of carpentering. Make 16 lbs butter for market. Geo Niles came home to day from sailing. �page_0091 88 Shell Challa Chella Niles St Lawrance May Wormwith 185 University Ave Kingston Ont. Wednesday 2nd Nov dec 1896 Cold day wind North, frost on the windows. Voltie shot 5 turkeys for Market. G & I dressed them. V drew wood on rails. W Jr came up and called on his way to Jones. more carpenter work being done to his barn - floor laid &c. Well we at last got 5 turkeys in the basket for tomorrows marketing, butter put on the butter basket ready for morning. V in evening went to Wellies for [?] waggon but [illegible] Eveline goes to her brothers wedding at Micheas leaving Wellie and children home �page_0092 [repeat of page 90] �page_0093 52 years ago 1896 [numerous scribblings, various names, addesses etc] Grace D Bamford St Lawrance Wolfe Island Ont. Gr from Racd D DGBD Graca D B Rac Graca D Bamford Grace D B in Graca [continues in illegible scribblings] �page_0094 89 Thursday 3rd November December Arose at half past four, rather cold looks like a storm. Get breakfast and then Wells Sr, Voltie, Grace & Maude start for the dock on the old pumper. Ma is going to see a specialist eye doctor at wades for a pair of spectacles and going to her Grandma Watsons from there leaving me alone. Began snowing before they reached the dock, snow falling so thick and fast cant see to the road. Wellie comes back with team and does the chores, brings two pails of water and goes home leaving me plenty of wood and water. I clean pantry shelves, wash all glasses, run candles. Wellie coming at 3 O’clock p.m., done more chores, put cows in stanchions and goes to dock for V & G & W Sr & M. Well I’m tired. This diary is continued on page 3 �page_0095 [scribblings with various names & additions - most of which are illegible] �page_0096 [back cover of diary] [manufacturing stamp] Photomount Pamphlet Binder Manufactured by Gaylord Bros, Inc. Syracuse, N.Y. Stockton, Calif. �page_0097 �This document would not be possible without the editorial contributions of the following people: Ann Hopkinson, MaryV, Patricia Roussel, Eric Irvine, and Queen’s University Archives � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Collection Subject The topic of the resource 19th and 20th Century Rural Ontario Diaries Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Courtesy of Queen's University Archives Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1887-1922 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Frontenac County, Wolfe Island, Ontario Table Of Contents A list of subunits of the resource. Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1887 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1888-1889 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1889-1897 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1890 March - June Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1893-1895 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1895-1899 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1896 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1897-1898 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1898 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1899 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1899-1900 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1900 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1902, 1906 parts of Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1902-1909 parts of Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1904-1905 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1907 & 1918 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1908-1919 parts of Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1911 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1913 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1913-1914 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1915-1916 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1916-1917 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1917-1918 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1918 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1921-1922 Language A language of the resource English Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1896 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Courtesy of Queen's University Archives Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1896 Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 19th Century, Frontenac County, Wolfe Island, Ontario Date Created Date of creation of the resource. December 5th, 1896 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Collection Medium The material or physical carrier of the resource. Typed Transcription UG Transcription Progress Scripto transcription progress Done transcribed https://ruraldiaries.lib.uoguelph.ca/transcribe/files/original/79c8deb2ac2ad69d8d5f4b88844af989.pdf 242101d407c65a2fe7e8071d1dc10175 PDF Text Text Irene Dixon Bamford 1895-1899, Diary Transcription 5034_4-1-10 �Metadata FromThePage export of 5034_4-1-10 from Irene Dixon Bamford made on 2026-02-11 14:35:10 UTC. itemTitle: Parts of 1895-1897-1899 date: 1895-1899 Title: 5034_4-1-10 Description: Item is a diary. Created On: 2024-01-11 17:29:06 UTC In Scope: true Uploaded Filename: 5034_4-1-10 �1 [file folder titles/subjects] Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Parts of 1895-1897-1899 [Queens date stamp] Queen’s University Archives Locator 5034 Box 1 File 10 �2 Parts of 1895 - 1897 - 1899 �3 �4 21 July 1st August 1895 Saturday 30 Jan 1897 A clear bright day, cold, the ground white with snow far and wide Wells Sr gone to Kingston with double team. Both Wellie and Will butchering beef. G cleaned floors. Maud insisted in going to Mr W for the mail came back crying with cold feet; a letter from Kirk on Roy wanting money on the 75 acres. I think they’ll have to wait. A Whig, my correspondence went to press to late Jen. W had sent first expected a letter from John but got none. Wells came early at 6 pm brought Wellies over shoes No 7 think they are too small After dinner W Jr and V went to the island for wood, found the ice poor �5 Sunday 31 Jan 1897 A cold clear bright morning sun rising in a rosy red sky; trees covered with a heavy white frost Edy Bates called here on his way to Church. We gave him Dr Watsons parcel. Will & Charlie here Dick holliday made us an Evening visit �6 2 August Friday 1895 A very fine morning Wind South & breezy. Grace done big washing we washed two quilts. Thursday 4 February 1897 A clear cold morning I & W Jr drawing wood from Linda. W Sr gone to Clayton for Calico. Maud will have to stay home to day from school. Grace sewing on her dress shaker flannel from Kingston chrushed strawbery color Wills little ones walked to school this morning and home again at night Jim Morgan here to borrow a rip saw borrowed 1 of Wellie I clean part of the pantry shelves dont feel very well Sr came home bringing 98 yds cloth �7 Friday 6 February 1897 a fine winter day. Wells Sr drove with Maud to school I cleaned pantry shelves and warms coating. [crossed-out] V & W Jr drew wood from Lindas [/crossed-out] V cleaned ice house and shop worked Wells went for Maud and carried Wells little ones home. Rachel got a bad cold or cough. Tomorrow V is going for the Dr for her. A dance to night at Dignam’s V & G attended. A big methodist crowd down from the villiage �8 Saturday 3 August 1895 A breezy day cloudy looks like rain. Grace brought in the clothes early this morning. Wellie here to lunch with us. Voltie & Wellie drew this forenoon the barley, only two loads a heavy crop. Had shelled beans for dinner golden wax. After dinner Maud and Beatrice go to Wellies for peas and then go to Wills for fence wire staples. Rachel at Wellie’s for cucumbers &c. Saturday 6 February 1897 A rainy day V and G came home at 3 A.M. Cant go for Dr to day. A regular downfall of rain. G moped [sic] floors and went to bed after dinner; had a long nap & after coming home from Dignums slept 4 hours in the morning �9 Sunday 7 February 1897 A cloudy half drizzly day & snow all slush and water can scarcly go a foot from door without getting feet wet. Dont expect visitors to day. Grace popped corn at three Oclock came Minnie OBrien & Miss Staley teacher & stayed to tea and till 9 Oclock pm. Came down in cutter. Evening visitors Minnie OBrien, Agnes Staley, Will Dixon, Wallace Niles, and Frank Woodman �10 4 Mauds Monday 8 February 1897 A cloudy soft day froze a little through the night but soft and sposhy & slush every where "An exchange of residence to day between Frank Woodman and Charley. Frank moving one way from home & Charley moving home. Up and down the ice the horses fly with chairs, beds, and all household goods. Wells Sr drove to school with Maude and went again at close of school & drove in to it. Barries with Ruth roads are terrible Wellie came up with sail for Grace to stitch Volkie gone visiting this evening at J Niles. �11 Tuesday 24 March 1897 Wells Sr drives with Maud to school and then drives with me to Wills where I stay all day till Sr drives to Wills with Wills children. Rachel got a cough. Grace washed a few things. Sr calking the front. Sr is hoarse. A fine day but cloudy towards night. Froze some in night, growing colder from N air George and Wall Niles here playing pede till after 10 Oclock p.m. �12 5 Wednesday 10 February 1897 A beautiful day. Grace cooking for O’Briens dance which takes place this eve (Michael). All go in sleigh. Frank, Wall, Voltie, Grace & Agnes Staley & Will Dixon and stay till 5 Oclock AM. Growing colder before morning �13 Wednesday Thursday 11 Feb 1897 �14 6. 12 Friday �15 Saturday 13 February 1897 V gone to Kingston for Miss Quinn to take her to the ball at Marysvillesent 10 lbs butterCharley drove down with Belle and children and went home again leaving Belle and the children here. V came after dark with Miss Q well what a jolly house full �16 7 Sunday 14 A fine day wind blows some from South But Charley comes down, stays till after dinner and Belle and the little ones pile into the sleigh and are well covered from wind with blankets and robes and away they go towards home. Grace popped corn �17 15 Monday A very fine Day. Grace and Lill prepare for the ball at Marysville I,m,b,a. I’ll be glad when its done for V drives for Miss Staley all going in sleigh Volty, Wall Niles, Grace, Aggy Staley & Lill Quinn. They pick up Bernard Morgan on the road and take him too �18 Tuesday 16 After the ball is over Came just at sunrise breakfast nearly ready. After breakfast V drives with Miss Staley to School house. Grace, Miss Quinn go to bed and sleep till dinner time. V takes a nap too. Daily visitors Frank Leatherland, Dick Spoor and a stranger, Wall Niles, Shell Niles, Will Dixon, George Morgan, Mabel Morgan. At evening time they all go (except Wall, George & Voltie) to tea meeting. Will, Geo & Voltie give us a musical entertainment at home which is very fine. Our stove pipe burnt out this morning after breakfast. �19 Wednesday 17 February Snowing this morning. Verandah floor covered an inch with snow. Wells Sr after thinking the matter over a while goes to Kingston for sill lumber and other building material. Frank Leatherland called here on his way to Kingston and is as polite and darling as ever. Dick Halliday here for V to go with him and invite for a dance at Bells next monday eve. Devers Breakey drove here to see V for some thing. Wall Niles Drove in here for Miss Quinn to accompany him in cutter to Wellies. Will here a little while. Grace went to sleep after dinner awhile. Got up and cleaned floors. Wellie here for butter. Weather shimpy and soft. Evening visitors Will Dixon, Wall Niles Shell Niles, George Morgan, & Jim Morgan, Agnes Staley, Ed Weaver, Miss Quinn. Danced in kitchen & Grace stood over the hot stove and popped corn for them till she is �20 9 Agnes Staley, Ed Weaver, Miss Quinn. Danced in kitchen & Grace stood over the hot stove and popped corn for them till she is nearly fainting with heat. They stayed till midnight. I wish the fools would stay home. Oh Lord how long. Thursday 18 Feb 1897 A cloudy morning looks like snow or rain. V gone to Kingston with Miss Quinn. Wells drove to School house with Maud & Miss Staley. Grace sick in bed with erysipelas and cold brought on by over exertion and dancing. A social at Burnhams this Eve. V returned at 5 pm. Evening visitors. Wall Niles, Henry Halliday & Rob Ranon sold 10 lbs butter today at 16 cts per lb to Wards. �21 Friday 19 February 1897 Froze last night. Grace better this morning. A thin veil of clouds cover the face of the sky but soon the sun came out clear and bright. Maud walked to school this morning. V and Jr put straw in the barn. V going for Maud and Miss Staley. Will gone to corners for Kerosine for Jr and to get the Dr for R. Sent Rachel cod liver oil. Voltie drove across the river after supper with Miss Staley and Grace to Capt Bogarts. �22 11 Saturday 20 February 1897 A mild day. Grace over river. Maud and I do saturday’s work, wash a few things. Jim Morgan here after dark for Volty to iron off his cutter fills and stayed in the shop till nearly one am infringing on the sabath, got nervous & called Sr out of bed to see what was trouble and he went out angry. Wind blowing a gale from south and the washing hanging on the veranda line and I afraid to go out in wind for my throat sore can swallow with difficulty. V brought them in at one am. �23 Sunday 21 February 1897 A pleasant day after the storm. I bake mince pies and rub the dirty spots on the floor. Volty drove to Hallidays from there. V & Dick drove to Bells. V returned at 3 pm then drove to corners for Grace and Staley. They all returned late again. Sr went to Wills to to [sic] see how Rachel is getting along. �24 12 22 February 1897 Monday Volty drove to school with Miss Staley and Maude. Jim Morgan here to for V to finish the cutter fills. L Larush and Miss G Davis came down on ice boat, ate dinner here and banged away on the piano till the snow storm from the North hurried them off. Next came Dr Watson on his return trip from Doctoring Rachel who has a bad cough. After putting his horse in barn and visiting awhile he hitched the old mare to the cutter and started & got as far as the turning point at the concession when the cutter slowed around upseting and tumbling the Dr out, the horse got away from him and is gone no one knows where. Back came the Dr to the house bringing one robe and blanket. When V returned from driving Wills home �25 home from school. V and his dad and Harry started with double team in pursuit of the runaway, tracked her as far as Ed Rattrays and there she took her way towards Clayton across the trackless ice. V & dad drove to Rob Percey’s where they deposited Dr Watson, a sad but wiser man. V promising to trace the fugitive early this morning. Horse, cutter, robes, medicine box, all gone of [sic] on a tour through a blinding snow storm from the north. V got a new addition to his cold. Sr ceiling the kitchen. The storm has ended the dance at Bells this eve - good. Our dissipated youngsters will get a nights rest. �26 13. Tuesday 23rd February 1897 This morn the storm has abated - no wind but the horse track so filled no use looking for it. Voltie gets or borrows J.N.’s bobs and goes over river for saw dust. Sr ceiling kitchen. Sr drove with Maude to school. Clouds appear like breaking away and becoming clear again. Wellie here for butter and cleaning up a grist for mill. paid. Buchanan was over looking for his rig but had not found it yet had been to Clayton and Gananoque but no clue. Dick Halliday here this eve, says going to dance at Charleys tomorrow night for Dick has bought the oysters. Aggy gone home with Shell to stay over night. �27 Wednesday 24 Feb 1897 A fair morning sun shining out clear for a while. A blustering time with wind and snow at noon Guess Dicks oysters will not spoil. I hope they can go this pm and get the job done with at last. Heard this am by way of Irvine, that Buchanan’s horse cutter medicine box &c &c are safely found with some man below Clayton. For Harry’s sake I’m glad Charley Woodman gone to Gananoque to day. Our stove pipe burnt out again to day at noon. V and Grace to Bells to dance all night taking boiler and milk, mince pie �28 14. Thursday 25 February 1897 Came home at 9 and tumbled into bed once more. After an other nights dancing slept till 1/2 past 10 am. Sr went to school with Maud and then drove Jess to Kingston. Will here to dinner. Another invitation to a dance tomorrow night at Keever’s and one in Kingston. There was one last eve on brad point. Rachel out of doors to day walking around. Rejoice in your heart Oh young man. and be merry but remember for all these things thou shall surely be brought into judgement. Aggy Staley came home with Maud and stayed all night. Sr rode his lumber down with All Joslin and he followed on with cutter �29 Friday 26 February 1897 A very good day. Voltie drove this morning to school with Chris Staley and Maud. Sr finishing ceiling in kitchen. Den Paine drove in here to make a visit. Wellie here a few minutes: its the same old talk about Balls and parties and dances and one next Monday night at corners. Grace sewing on my dress waist &c �30 27 15. Saturday Volty gone to Kingston drove Jess. A very fine morning when he drove away. Wellie gone to Gananoque to mill. After noon blinding wind and snow squalls. Worried about Wellie think Devolson will come as far as Charleys and stay all night. Charley and Ethel came over for some thing forgot. Will came over and said Wellie came at 3 pm. Will stay awhile and wonder of wonders V came home bringing two Quinn’s home with him Lill Quinn & Edna Quinn. Am I glad to see them? not much I’ve had visitors enough for awhile. Gave them their supper and they giggled and teehee’d and yelled and talked and laughed all at same time. rather loud for a city belle I think. �31 Sunday morning 28th February 1897 Awoke this morning to once more find our domicil invaded by the enemy. A blow to peace and quietness more loud talk and high laughter giggles & yells of nonsencical [sic] side splitting mirthlessness. Oh for a refined quiet ladylike demeanor. The day is fine and is spent in cooking and eating, cutter riding, ice boating, calling on the Niles and Eveline. In evening W. Dixon, Wall N & Will Niles visit us. more noise, more banging on the piano, more loud laughing that speaks the vacant mind and kept up till 11 O’clock. No one can sleep till after 12 O’clock. Lill is a methodist. �32 16 Monday 1 March 1897 After breakfast and hand shaking all around and adieu’s and good byes V came to the door and they tumble in to the cutter and are duly tucked into the robes and blankets and V drives away again Cityward with with [sic] Lillian and Edny and with a long drawn breath of releif [sic]. I turn to washing dishes and Grace to sewing Sr drives to school with Maud. Will Dixon trying to get up a dance at his house before the 3rd of March when Lent begins and like a last forlorn hope if he cant dance to night he’ll dance at his house tomorrow night till 12. After noon stormy. wind blowing great guns and snow flying so cant see an inch from your nose and while I’m thinking V will not return, he walks in looking like a snow drift having driven all the way from Emerson in a snow storm �33 Tuesday 2nd March 1897 A tolerably decent day. Storm abated at midnight snow drifts this morning like hills sun partly shining finished writing and sent a letter to John. V at J Niles this morning helping fill Niles new ice house, came home after dinner and gone to Wellie’s to help W Jr put straw in barn. Will called here after going a way with Charley & Flora to school then he went home to get wood. Aman Chatterton getting ready, washing her clothes going to leave Sams & going to the Bellville [sic] home next Tuesday. Maud home from school. Grace washing a few things &c. Sr putting mouldings on kitchen. Evening mail a lettter from Dick Brown. Grace a letter from Glen and Miss Wormwith. �34 Wednesday 3rd March 1897 A storm of rain ice fog and some wind. Wills’ children gone to school. Maud at home. Grace making herself a dress and working on her piece quilt. Wells Sr moulding the kitchen doors and made new end pieces for the quilting frames. Volkie working in shop all day. Will here this afternoon. We were much disturbed by a strange dog last night a wailing and howling around the house like an narly [sic] banshee. Volkie caught the dog and put him in the cow stable. I gave him his breakfast this morning and he is gone away. Well this is all only the weather is dismal. �35 4 March Thursday 1897 A day of brightness snow every where resembles highly polished marble. V drove to school house with Maud and then drove up the ice with the tramp dog and found it belonged to Morgan. From there he drove to Wm G Woodmans for elm lumber for sleigh raves. Drove for Maud. Miss Staley came home with them and after supper Volkie hitched up old Nell and away they drove to Wellys to visit till 1/2 past 11 pm. The dog again visited us last night at 11 Oclock disturbing the whole household and Volty in particular. �36 5 Friday March 1897 A thick hazy morning looks very much like rain. V trying to bend sleigh runners in the tank soften them I mean. Will came over while George Darling here to day rain came tumbling down. V went to Frank W’s this eve and played pedro with McNealy. We took another can of tea 30 lbs. This morning V drove to school with Maud and the teacher �37 6 March Saturday 1897 A fine day. cold freezing ice every where river like a mirror in the sunlight. Charley & Belle and Mary Murphy & little Grace came down and stoped [sic] long enough to warm and then drove over to Gloyds and the corners leaving little Grace here. While gone Belle brought me the scrap book’s 3 of them. They said [Jim?] yesterday ran away. Will and Wellie here. Voltie went with them to the corners for kerosine and more medicine I supose. Belle got present for Flora came over for butter milk. �38 19. Sunday 7 March 1897 A beautiful day but cold. V drove over to Wills with me to see R and mother got there before breakfast. Johny Bamford our own Johny drove over for me toward evening. He came from Limerick to day. We drove around by Wallis’s the driving on the ice is beautiful every where. The ice boats were out in force to day. Anne Chatterton came to Wills to day, wants to go over the river. I caught the neuralgia in ear & face to day. Found Agnes Staley here to day when I returned from Wills. Will and George Morgan here in evening, dont get to sleep till after 12. G and A talk and laugh till 1 am �39 Monday 8 March 1897 V drives to school with Aggy and Maud, Aggy not coming again in three weeks. �40 20 Tuesday 9 March 1897 �41 Wednesday 10 March 1897 A rainy morning but clears away. Sr drives to school with Maud. I quilt nearly all day. Volty not well but reads most all day. Grace does house work. Ed Bates and John Barnham here and Welly and they saw wood for Vi in the evening. Pat Loban here for to cut wood tomorrow for O’Brien. Wells sr told Pat V couldn’t go. Ed Bates here in evening playing checkers with V. Flora came over for tea �42 21. Thursday 11 March 1897 A fine clear morning Welly & Jess go to Kingston on the ice, on a sled, with two horses. Wellie gone up for lumber to ceil his kitchen. Ed Bates went also. Will here for buttermilk. Grace and I finished the quilting of Belles present she gave me 4 or 5 years ago. Volkie better reading one studying all day. Grace done house work. E Bates went to Kingston with Jr. Received a letter from Nelly Woodmans teams (Franks and Charley’s got in ice by Morgans point. Niles drove across the river for saw dust for ice. Sent K a scrap book. �43 Friday 12 March 1897 Wind east and rain falling nearly all day. Snow rapidly disapearing [sic] ground nearly bare of snow. Wind hauls around to west and freezing hard at night. Wind blowing at gale. Wells went to Samy’s to post a letter and was treated to a glass of cider. V reading and studying. Maud stayed home from school. I began making a new scrap book. Grace cleaned chamber floors and moved the lounge upstairs we churned and bound the new quilts. �44 22 Saturday 13 March 1897 A very fine day. W Sr drove to Kingston on the ice with one horse. Came back before night dark brought candy, soap, clothes pins and three papers. via the Artica Globe, War cry and Saturday Whig. Maud goes to post Office for the Weekly Whig & goes skating all the afternoon still on the ice too. The ice yachts are out to day in force about 20 or more pass down the river on Their way to Kingston to the racing contest to day. V reading Shakespeare and doing the chores. Aunt Rena done several things which didnt amount to much. Wellie, Hubert and Muriel here. Flora and Charlie here. Grace done all the cleaning and made cake and cookies in the Evening. G & M went to pay Mrs N a visit. W Sr says Lil Watson and E. Quinn & her dada in K. Old Mrs Watson sick �45 Sunday 14 March 1897 All day A great snow storm sweeping o’er all the land. With great difficulty Sr brings water from the river 2 pails full. Cattle will not go to river to drink All is quietness and peace within the home to day. A clean hearth and warm fires and reading- galore. Grace and Maud getting dinner. We we eating dinner when once more the alarm, the stove pipe is burning out, and at this time it nearly proved to be most serious. It took V and his father with a pail of water and climbing the roof on the lader [sic] in this blizzard of a snow storm to lay the fire flue once more. Afraid, some time, the house and all our household goods will go up in smoke and no insurance. Something has got to be done there has warning been given so often that it is folly to let this go on any longer. �46 Aug 24th Saturday 1895 Wellie & Voltie helping Mr Niles draw oats, after noon it rain drizzled all fore noon, guess Niles oats got wet for they loaded oat right through the rain �47 [part of page missing indicated by ?] Sunday 14 March 1897 [?] great snow storm sweeping o’er [?] with great difficulty Sr [?] the river 2 parts full [?] to river to drink [?] peace within the [?] hearty and warm fires [?] Grace and Maud [?] dinner Monday 16 Match 1897 A bright beautiful day Maud at school then Sr drove for Rachel. R stayed till Sr drove from School and then took R home. Grace washed big washing & hung on the line. V painted kitchen yally and brown. Wellie here awhile. Wellie got a bad cold. V not well. Will worked on N’s ice house. �48 25 August 1895 Sunday A beautiful clear warm day after last nights heavy rain storm. grass and all vegetation bright and green. Grace & Voltie went to Carlton Island returned at sundown. I alone nearly all day. Maude, Charlie & Flora went to church. Evening visitors George and Florence Morgan & Miss Foley teacher. �49 Sunday 14 March 1987 [page has been torn and much is illegible and indicated here as a ?] snow storm sweeping o’er [?]with great difficulty Sr [?] the river 2 parts full [?] to river to drink [?] peace within the [?] and warm fires [?] Grace and Maud [?] dinner �50 [page torn - much of the entry is not visible and indicated here with ?] 26 Aug [?] way [?] laughter [?] down the island and [?] 15 miles to G Gillespie’s [?] go afterwards drove over [?] R made Niles a �51 Sunday 14 March 1987 [page has been torn and much is illegible and indicated here as a ?] snow storm sweeping o’er [?]with great difficulty Sr [?] the river 2 parts full [?] to river to drink [?] peace within the [?] and warm fires [?] Grace and Maud [?] dinner Tuesday 15 16 March 1897 A fine day bright and warm finer than yesterday In evening froze last night. V drove over the river came back at 3 - carried Mrs G a piece of beef �52 27 Wednesday 1617 March 1897 Grace preparing to go to the ball at the Cosners, prepared nearly all day, going with Wall Niles only she didnt go. Wallace flunked out under pretence of a bad cold. Glad she didn’t go with Wall,- or glad Wall sneaked out which is a providence to Gracie D Bamford. [] V had better not dance just now V drove to school for Maud and Agnes Came home with them,-which is fine. and And the evening passes away all night with music and laughter merriment. Sr drove down the Island and tried to hire out the 75 [] to G Gillespie & Rosen but no go. Afterwards drove over the river to R R[]. V made Niles a visit. �53 Thurday 18 March 1897 A very fine morning Wells drives to Kingston on the ice and Irene goes with him as far as Belles. Thawing all day. Bamford gets back to Charlie’s at 4 1/2 pm and Marjorie comes home with us Belles house is fine but a chance for great improvement. B Sr went to land office always trouble there, more money more money more money & more & more more more �54 28 Friday 19 March 1897 A fine warm day wind south. Earth mostly bare of snow. V drove to school with Maud & Marjorie and went for them again at 4p.m. Grace washed clothes, a line full. Wallie & V pitched straw in barn. Sr done chores and brought water and nodded over his newspaper. Churned. Grace skips across the field to mail a letter to Helen Watson, Kingston. A soft warm day winter disapearing [sic]. A robin on the wing and crows galore. A foggy morning and foggy nearly all day �55 Saturday 20 March 1897 A day of mud melting snow fog and a thunder and lightning shower. Grace cleaned the floors. V painting and cleaning the kitchen. Wells doing chores and brought some water. If we had a cistern! it would prevent many weary steps and waste of time. Margaret & Maude visiting all day. I the evening Volty went to J N’s to play pedro. Came home at 10 p.m. all in bed long ago but I. �56 29 Sunday 21 March 1897 A fair day sun shines out now and again, ground is bare and dirty, and more mud than yesterday. A sleepy quiet day. reading is the business of the day. Alone all day - no visitors to day. Within the space of 6 lines I have writen "day" 6 times - 7 times 8 times in all on this page. George Gillespie drove up on the ice to church this afternoon Monday 22nd March 1897 A fine spring day thawing all day snow gone except a few patches here and there. Will called here on his way to Morgans for his iceboat. Ed Bates crossed the ice on foot this am. Wells Sr walked to Breakeys for window sash. Found Mrs Hodgers there, wanting to get over the river enroute for Rochester. V making moulding for kitchen. I wrote to Nelly �57 Tuesday 23rd Marach 1897 A beautiful morning, spring birds are singing. Will and Volty are painting the house outside. "Sams’ boys are shingling their barn. Wells Sr brought in 15 eggs to day. V taped [tapped] 3 trees & Maud and Marjorie are gathering the sap at night. 1/2 past 4 pm Clouds gathering dark, looks like a storm. I cleaned part of the pantry woodwork. V & Wall & George this eve gone to Wellies to play pedro V came home early at 9 pm. Wednesday 24th March 1897 A stormy day - rain from the north. We are not working very heavy to day. Will came over towards evening and V gave or paid Well 20 lbs pork and 50 lbs of flour. Sr reading and V reading Shakespeare �58 30 Thursday 25 March 1897 A dirty day half rain half snow all day Charly came over for Wells. Sr to go over there and brought over the basket and pillow slip that Will had Thursday a fine warm day. Voltie drove to dock with Grace - going to K market with butter adn eggs yesterday Walls Sr went over. Sr brought in 18 eggs to day �59 Friday 15 May 1896 Rained a smart shower last night. Nearly all trees in leaf. Wind south, warm. Sarah Gillespie here making M and a dress. R here with cider jug. Voltie goes across to D Bedalls for cider for Wellies Stone Bee. Expected a litter from Wells. Bid got more. Will attempted coming here but went back. to weak yet from Rheumatism. Received the flower seeds at last �60 31 Saturday 16 May 18 Wind blowing hard from South. I sowed garden and flower seeds, carried dirt and filled boxes. Grace cleaned all the flowers and helped get dinner & after dinner finished Mauds dress so Maude could go with V & G. to the litterary [sic] circle. �61 Sunday a quiet sleepy dreary day no one here till evening except Wellie came for his mail in am and stayed about an hour. Morning cloudy and rained a little shower. Evening visitors Mrs. John Niles and Shelly. Evening wind blowing from S.W. and cold �62 1 September 1895 Monday 18 May 1896 Wind South West, a strong breeze partly cloudy. A sort of sickly sunlight & cool AM. V plowed corn land on grange pm, plowed for corn at home in raspberry field. Maud at school. Flora here for sage for Lottie, said Will is much better. Irene churned and washed some things. Grace made pies and cookies & sowed on carpet. Tuesday 19 May 1896 Jen came over and stayed a time or two till eve. Jen & Grace went to see Dora Gillespie who is under the doctors care. Dr Watson �63 20 Wednesday May 1896 A cool day for rain. People longing for rain. Churned and made 24 lbs of butter. 1 Thursday May 1896 Fine cool weather, good for butter. Grace gone to Kingston with 24 butter [?]. Maud working will and peas or good luck. V visit set tomato plant and hop time. Bell had a a tick pulled nor rain. Will ate dinner. �64 2 22 Friday cool after the very slight shower in the night with thunder but the ground is dry. G & I sewed carpet and churned. V plowed for corn. Rachel here in evening. No letters from Bamford Mr Merry Frank Caine Grace D Bamford Alf Rainwell Halen Grey Harvey Joslin Cliff Milne Geo Gates Mr Merry �65 23 May 1896 Wind North strong breeze cool Weather dry general complaint throughout Ontario, no rain. Grain looks badly Apples trees in full bloom. V preparing to plant corn. Maud helping Will run fish nets in front of house, this is Saturday and lots of work to do. �66 3 Friday 26 March 1897 A very good day as compared with yesterday. G washing a line full of clothes. Will painting house for V. Voltie painting kitchen floor. W Sr doing chores. Maud and Marjorie playing and boiling sap in a tin pan. Welly came up for ground provender & said Muriel & Hubert got a bad cold. V helping Will paint outside this afternoon. �67 Saturday 27 March 1897 A fine day. Grace cleaned floor. V and Will painted house. Agnes came at 10 O’clock. Maud & Marjorie visiting and teasing to go to Wills. Sunday 28 March 1897 A bright fine day. Agnes, Voltie and Grace and the family in general are reading. After dinner Grace took a nap and then walked to Wellies and stayed to tea. Wallace here a while. �68 4 Monday 29 March 1897 A beautiful spring day. Agnes and Marjorie & Maud gone to school. V gone to Devero’s bee—dock building. Will painting outside house. Wells Sr gathering sap and eggs. Gracie washed big washing and after dinner went to Wellies for yeast. Wellie here for old milk can to draw sap in taped 22 of Frank W’s maples. �69 Sunday 15 January 1897 A dull cloudy day. Earth bare and mudy. A quiet day not much wind, gently breezy from South. Grace gone to bed again after sleeping 12 hours last night. V gone to Wells Jr for hay knife. W Sr reading. Guess Maud has gone to bed too. dont hear any thing from her. Well I suppose I’ll have to get dinner for it must be nearly 12 noon �70 �71 Monday 9th January 1899 A freezing cold day all nail heads inside the house white with frost, ground nearly bare but no wind. Sr drove to school with Maud. she rode home with the Niles family. �72 Tuesday 10th Jan 1899 A fine day ground bare feezing cold Maud at school. Grace done big washing and hung them on the line and clothes bars. V brought most all the water. Dady brought the rest. �73 Wednesday 11 Jan 1899 A beautiful day but cold freezing cold. ground bare. Voltie and Charlie Woodman gone to Kingston drove up on the ice. found the jam ice a formidable obstruction to their way started at 8 am, arrived in K at 2 pm, returned home at 9 pm. Voltie sold his pork to Green at 5 1/8 lb per V subscribed for Saturday Evening Post. �74 Thursday 12 Jan 1899 A most beautiful day. Grace brought in and ironed the clothes. Voltie went over to to the Island to bash a road to draw wood & went to see Mr & Mrs Gloyd. she gave him honey and lent him a book. Wells Sr painting window sash. Mr G came down to day from Kingston. Will here & Charley �75 Friday 13th Jna 1899 Cloudy morning weatherall moderate. Welly, Voltie & Gaskin gone to Linda’s for wood. Wells Sr put the outside window by the kitchen stove in this morning. Maud staying home this morning for a headache a good excuse. Mr G brought Maud a new pair of skates. Maud is studying arithmetic. Will and Charley came awhile Will and Grace praticing music in parlor. Will brought me some coffee. Will Robinson called to say good bye. Frank an Charley Woodman gone to Kingston on the ice, ground bare. At 4 Oclock Voltie, Mr Gaskin, and Grace start for the villiage, driving on the ice. V going first to pilot Mr G who is new to the ice road. A pleasant home evening. �76 Saturday 14 January 1899 A rainy morning and Voltie and Grace at the villiage. It rains all a.m. clouds break and partly clears at two p.m. sun shining out. Wells Sr out to barn working and doing chores nearly all day. I cooked and washed dishes. Maude swept, dusted and moped floors. Saw one cutter flying down the river on the ice, a single horse driven by one man. Tis 20 minutes to 3 oclock and V & G have not yet arrived. "Hope defered maketh the heart sick" I ought to be hardened to watching and waiting by this time. They return safe and sound at 1/2 past four and the rain commenced pouring down as they were coming ashore at the concession and some how Bers succeeded in breaking cutter fill. V unhitched her from the cutter and Grace led her to the house while V drew the �77 cutter to the barn by hand which was very hard work for the ground is bare and very mudy but all is well that ends well and they are safe home again and the rain comes tumbling down. V & G dont sit up long but go to bed before supper. Sunday Morning 15 January A dull, mudy, cloudy day. Grace has another nap. Irene tries to read but goes to sleep. Wells Sr reading. Maud thumping on piano. V goes to Wellies & comes back in time for dinner at 2 p.m. Wellie came up for salt. Charley & Will here. Maud tried the new skates. The ice not very smooth for skating Charley tries the ice. Read aloud in the evening. Jack Niles came after dark and brought Sr a letter from Jim Gothum �78 Monday 16 Jun 1899 Saturday 26th Nov 1898 V goes to Marysville and from there to Kingston, with the band to play at the consecration of the Archibishop Gauthier. A very cold stormy day. Jackie Niles came and done all the chores, choped wood and brought water. Will came in evening with Dick Jenkins and milked the cows. �79 Sunday 27th Nov 1898 A clear cold day after yesterday and last nights storm. V came home from Marysville at two Oclock am. Jack N came down to do the chores but found V at home. V obliged to work all day went to Wm D’s for stove pipe and finished putting pipe together, built a coal fire, took up the calves and drove them home, fed hogs, cleaned stables, milked cows. Wallace here for borrow dog cart, going to [illegible] to see his sweet heart. Will came over and in evening Bernard made us a visit till nine Oclock. Grace has a slight attack of toothache. �80 Monday 28 Nov 1898 A beautiful day, snow rappidly disapearing. V butchered his hog. Will & Welly, & Jenkins helped, then Will drove home and brought his second pig to butcher here. Jen and Charlie coming too excepting Welly, all here to dinner. Jen mad because grandmother returned home again wanted she should stay here. Jen going to clear out and take Flora with her; going to Maryanne’s. R mad too so for (poor old lady) 29 Tuesday 1898 A pleasant day considering the lateness of the month, snow has again disapeared except in the burrows and along the fences: a circle around the moon all last night wider than three cart wheels. Wallace N gone to the Cape with fish. V having a very small bee drawing fertilizer, from the stable yard. W.N. will not be here. Maud mopped. The remains of Sylvia Woodman Woolcott brought home to day: No bee. Wellie in am butchering for Wm Rattray. pm getting out wood. �81 from the river over by the Ross place. V helping W. Jr. Monday 16 Dec 1899 A fine day. Sun brightly shining. Froze last night but weather not cold ground bare ice good for drawing loads. V gone to McFadens with pig. Maud at school. Grace washing clothes. Voltie & Grace has received an vitation to Geo Morgans weding. A day like latter part of April. Voltie says he has a pain in his right lung. Frank & Charles Woodman gone across to see Dr Buchanan. F got a lame back & Chas got gripp. Voltie in evening goes down to see Frank but does not find him at home. �82 Tuesday 17 Jan 1899 A warm bright day no wind but very light breeze from south. Ground bare of every vestige of snow, mudy. Grace ironing and practicing on the piano. Maud at shcool. W Sr fixing outside window in parlor. V at shop working on his own sleighs. V early gone to bed. Will & Chas here to bring a note from Armstrong a oyster party tomorrow at villiage cmb a Friday 3rd December 1908 hall, came dressed in uniform ie Will, Frank & Devolson Wed 18 Jan 99 V drives over to Wills. I go to see the family. After dinner Wm & V and F drive to the Villiage on ice, Jenkins goes with V. They return at 4 am not cold but freezing ice boating but bare ground, a clear sky. Jim OBrien came down to cross the bay for oil He called for V but V not home. Sr drove for me �83 Saturday 4 Dec 1898 A lovely day. V & W Jr gone all day to North shore getting wood from out the river. Frank Bamford came over to day. Sunday 5 December Not very cold but cloudy. Ground bare. Grace not very well. Will Dixon and Dick Jenkins here. Wellie went across to Millens Bay in Niles skiff. Wall N here. Dave Mahoney came. Evening visitors D Mahoney, Maggie Scott, Wall Niles, Frank Bamford. A snow storm from the North. D Mahoney goes home at 10 pm. Maggie stayed all night. Wall went home in snow storm. Snow and blow all night. V built another coal fire. �84 Monday 6 December 1898 A snowy morning. Earth white with snow. Wind N changing S at noon and blowing, not very cold, snow and rain. Frank Bamford went home at noon. Voltie put in three storm windows and put a bottom sash in pantry window. Grace abed all day with a very bad cold. Maud and I do the house work, try the lard, clean pig’s feet, churn &c. No visitors to day. Voltie drove to the lower school with Maggie Scott in dog cart. Geo Rattray drove in here to see about his bob sleigh. OBrien hired man. Murphy drove in for pig box. Voltie goes early to bed. Grace gone to bed. �85 #1 - 1098 Thursday 19 Jan 1899 A very fine day, ground bare, no snow, a winter drouth [sic], ice very good. The cutter turned over last night when V was returning home at 3 Oclock am and V and Jenkins tumbled out and jamed V’s Cornett pretty badly. Maud at school. Friday 20 Jan 1899 A fine day, no snow no rain, bare ground. Maud at school. Letters from RG and Helen W, the Whig but no post. �86 Saturday 21 Jan 1899 A cloudy day but warm, no snow but Volty goes to the villiage for his grist. rain and snow squalls all pm. V started for the villiage after dinner and returned at 5 pm accompanied by R Gaskin in another rig. They are wet, cold and hungry. Will here when they came & Charley too but they soon get warmed with hot peppered cider and a warm supper. Sunday 22 Jan 1899 A very good day, warm enough, no snow, ground as bare as your hand. Irene cooks chicken for dinner. Grace takes long nap. RG reads. Sr reads. Voltie goes to Junior and home again. In evening Grace & R.G. goes to W Jrs on the ice, stay till half nine and return on the land; we all go early to bed, forgot to say We were honored with the company of Miss Scott (teacher) and Miss Hattie Joslin. Hattie asking V to take her to St Lawrence NY Tuesday eve next at a dance. C nonsence. �87 Monday 28 Jan 1899 Arose early. After Breakfast R Gaskin leaves for Kingston drives like Jehu hurrying to get to the city by nine Oclock am. After dinner Grace & Volty drive to the villiage and to Kingston ate dinner at Quinn’s, bought the bride a weding present, called on R.G. at the Grand Union and again crossed to Garden Island to the weding of Miss L. Sauve and Geo Morgan which this morning was selebrated at the R Catholic Church, Marysville. Levi Banter here to dinner the old man is foolish; has lost his mind. Tuesday 24 Jan 1899 No post. Wherd [sic] how it rains this morning and our youngsters not home yet from the weding. Maud wants to go to School but weather not favorable. Maud sweeps and cleans up the rooms, mops pantry and around the coal stove. Voltie and Grace return from the wedding at 2 p.m. bring Laura Davis with them equiped for another dance over the way at St Lawrence but D not having slept for 6 hours they stay home. F. W. here wish he’d stay home this time made us call on his way to Rattrays. Lottie here for soap. �88 Wednesday 25 Jan 1899 A beautiful day, clear but cold, ground bare, no snow this month so far. V went to River View for Kerosine. Laura Davis went too. V sets two shoes on Bess. After dinner V drives to villiage for coal & Laura goes home to the villiage with Volson, they drive up on the ice with two horses before the sleigh. Maud went to school but returned; no school. Teacher sick with gripp. I’m writing from a new bottle of ink. Wellie & Hubert here for a few minutes. I’m a very poor writer, used to write quite a decent hand. Devolson returned early in evening with a load of coal. �89 Thursday 26 Jan 1899 Wind South this morning. A little snow on the ground this morning like a heavy frost. Sun shining out clearly part of the time. Maud at home teacher got grippe. Voltie went to OBriens to send for spangles for his masquerade costume. OBrien going up to City. Grace fixing Maudes old blue waist. �90 Friday 27th Jan 1899 Fixing all day for the masqurade at the villiage. A very cold day but they leave just after sundown, clear crisp and cold. John Coxall called here on his way from Napanee, stayed 1 1/2 hours, talk, talk all e can. Another big fire in Kingston this morning. The Saturday Evening post came this eve with a letter from Martin to Voltie. �91 Saturday 28 Jan 1899 A blustering morning snow from South, squally Grace & V returned home from masquerade at about 9 am. V milked cows and went to bed. Grace didn’t wait for any thing but went to bed immediately and slept till after 3 p.m. V slept till 1/2 past 2 p.m. M cleaned floors - made pies. Grace arose and prepared the evening meal some of the house plant froze last night. The rose scented geranium froze stiff. �92 Sunday 29 Jan 1899 A beautiful clear day, a brilliant sun high over all the earth, no sleighing yet. V gone to exam the ice to Linda’s. Bernard M here, came down from the post office, fine driving on the ice along the shore. Wellie called on his way from the post office then came Will & Charles. G came 3 1/2 p.m. A fine evening. R.G. stays all night. Sleeps in the Big Chamber. Hope he will not freeze. �93 Monday 30 Jan 1899 A snowy blustering morning wind south. We rise early so Bob can start for the city. Clears up at 10 a.m. V & Sr working in shop. Maud at school: caught a ride with the Niles family of pupils and teacher. Geo driving. Voltie went to Wellies to get him to help draw wood form Linda’s isle but Jr going to help Geo Rattray butcher 9 hogs tomorrow. V came around by Wills with Frank and visited with them 1 1/2 hours. Will and Charley making Morgans an evening visit. Florence better from grippe. Geo Sr at home. the bride Laura at home on garden island sick with grippe. The old folks ball at the villiage this evening 25 cts dance, all the youngsters from the foot attend except ours. �94 Tuesday 31st January 1899 This is mail day. Expect the Saturday Post to night. A beautiful day, brilliant no wind. V & Wm drawing wood from the Linda’s. Maud at school caught a ride again with the Niles. Grace washed and hung the clothes on the line and bars. V drew the coal box from the shop and set it under the kitchen window next to Samy. Sr emptied the coal from the bags which were in the sleigh into the coal box. In evening Grace & Maud went for the mail. V went to Franks. �95 1st February, Wednesday 1899 A fine morning. Grace and Volty go to K on the ice in double sleigh going to get 900 lbs of coal from the villiage. Grace gone for her fancy dress ball out fit. begins to snow at 3 pm. Wellie here cleaning a grist. Maud went to school, walked there When M returned from school she brought in the clothes from the line. Will here too helping and went to J Niles for a grist. Retired at 10 pm. Sat up reading all about the cultivation of oysters in Saturday post. K & G came at 11 pm. Grace having been to Gaskins for tea. Bob brought her across to the villiage. V & Grace came down the ice midst haze and snow. �96 My dear Helen Please accept my sincere thanks for your beautiful X’ms gift which for a few moments (on first receiving) I was at a loss to understand its usefulness but of course you will understand and pardon my rusticity but I tryly [sic] appreciate the ornamental design and daintiness of so useful an article and have placed it on the wall beside the mirror where it has a very decorative effect and yet I have given you nothing in return for your kind and loving remembrance. But I will and dear Nellie how can I ever find words to express my gratitude to you and your dear good mother and sisters for the pleasure Grace received while visiting your city home. I think she has entered most freely into the minute details of her visit and the kindness bestowed upon each member of your family and your aunties Mrs Pannell and Mrs Berry and Nellie. I thought �97 I would realy like to get acquainted with your aunty Barry. I know I should love her dearly for I do already. But we may never meet in this world, who can tell. While sitting here writing I look through the window, and the thought occurs to me, is this realy winter, the 7 of Jan, and warm as May and not a snow flake any where to be seen except a little mound of snow by the church shed covered with dirt and am thinking what sort of description block the novelist would paint his scene in words. He certainly would make a most exquisite picture of it, mud and all. I like the Sea Lions by Cooper which Grace sent home at Christmas time. I would like you to read it Nellie and recommend to your reading all of his works for several reasons. firstly they will bring your atlas into use and will help now in that important branch of study more than any other writer that I know at present beside enlarging your love of nature in all its lofty grandeur his writings are thoroughly American. What �98 I mean is his stories takes in the whole vast continents of North and South America and again their are so moraly pure and elevating. I am glad to think that when you return to dear Old England you will have an English Country home. Not in a crowded noisy roar city like London or Manchester or any other great or small not even a suburb but rural England the very sound is charming. "Away from the toil of care men warm Away from the haunts of vice and sin" Were lines written by Mrs Moody, sister of the Hon Mrs Norton while making the back woods of Canada her home for a short time. She has written a book describing life in the Canadian Wilds, have you read her poem "The Sleigh Bells" It is exquisitely beautiful. Even when Mr Moody’s business called him home to England it was with regret she left. �99 Sylvan home where many a night she has listened to baying of the wolf and the resounding stroke of the axes as it laid low some old monarch of the forest, as she writes. Loud sounds the axe redoubling stroke on stroke, On all sides around. The forest bears her oaks headlong, midst echoing groan, then rustling, crackling, crashing thunders down" Did you ever watch the falling of a tree? I think not. Did you ever notice that the theme of all poets is Nature. Scott Wordworth, Goldsmith’s deserted villiage, Grey’s Elegy in a counts Church yard, Long fellows Hiawatha. Oh I love my country home, the still quietness of a sabath morning in spring time when the orchard is white and pink with bloom and the oriole has built her nest like an indian babys cradle suspended from �100 1st October 1895 branch of hawthorn swinging with every breeze; a cradle for the birdlings and the St Lawrence some times the mirror of every crimson and golden cloud at sunset. Thursday 2nd February 1899 A brilliant 2nd of Feb Candalmas day. The Earth white with Snow far and wide. Will & Wells Jr drove to Kingston on the ice. Maud at home to day. Grace making her ball dress. Yesterday Devolson bought a new axe and to day Wells Sr is making a new axe handle for the new axe. Weather warmer eaves running. Nelly G has a new bean I ought to write to Nellie. �101 2 February �102 Friday 2nd Feb 1899 I wrote to Nellie G. 12 pages. I was so intent upon my letter that I scarcely noticed the weather, wrote 12 pages closely writen. the snow softly falling to day, no wind. Wells Jr., Volty, Will Dixon and Charley Dixon gone across to Dodges walked over on the ice. I watched them long time but at last they disapeared in the dim snowy distance. �103 Saturday 4 of February 1899 A working day of all kinds and Maud down with Grippe. We cook (Grace and I) wash, mop, bake, take Sc goes to Kingston returns just after dark brings glass, putty, darning needles, harness needles, common sewing needles. V pair shoes, new lantern and a new teapot and coffee. �104 Sunday 5th February 1899 A fine day for visitors. First instalment Bill Winmill, Mary WinMill, Joy Lee, Della Lee, Nina Lee, R Gaskin drove down from Kingston. Morgan load drove in about 3 pm. Bernard, Lizzie, Florence, Mabel and Maggie Hayden They sang, played, danced as usual. Charlie Dixon and Stanley Woodman here also. At last all are gone except R.G. he came to stay all night and he stayed. Maud pretty sick all day with La grippe. �105 Monday 6 Feb 1899 A brilliant day, moderate, weather snow every where. Voltie and Robert gone to foot for oats. Bought them of Rent. Sr putting glass in storm windows. Maud is convoalesent [sic] a.m. Glad of that. Half past Bob just drove off up the ice to Kingston. A meeting at the church this afternoon. Cant find my crochet work mislaid somewhere. Voltie in evening reading Quo Vachs. Irene finished reading Dickens "Cricket on the hearth". Maud got nose bleed. �106 Tuesday 7th February 1899 Another Brilliant day; weather moderate but below freezing point W Jr and Will drawing wood from Dodge’s. Voltie and his ftahter drawing wood from Linda’s. Maud much better. Grace sewing on her organdie. I wash dishes and cook. Grace washing and preparing for the c.m.b.a tomorrow eve at the villiage. After dinner V and his father go to Linda’s for another load of wood. Maud sat at table and ate dinner with us. Maud singing which we hail as a good sign of convalescence. �107 Wednesday 8th February 1899 A blustering morning wind N and snowing, but notwithstanding and neverless Grace and Voltie get ready and once again drive off up the ice to Marysville and Kingston going to the c.m.b.a. ball which leaves Maud, myself and W Sr alone. I cook and do general house work enjoy a pleasent evening and go to bed at 10 pm leaving the clothes hanging on the clothes line. �108 Thursday 9th February 1899 A cold morning wind blowing from West all night, frost on the windows. Volty and Grace come home at 8 am enjoyed their party immensely. Wall & Shell at the dance too but no Morgans , no Dave. It blusters and blows all day, snow flying and drifting like a march day. To end up as a finish the kitchen chimney took upon its self to burn out, black smoke and flames rolled out top like a furnace. V went on roof with water, poured it down the chimney which caused steam and smoke to belch out worse than before. W Sr says tis three deg colder than last night and think it is too for white frost on window panes like snow. �109 Friday 10th of February 1899 A clear cold day. Frost on windows all day. Gave Maud a thorough doctoring again for Tonsillitiss [sic]. Frank W here for coal. Will D here to dinner and helped V put up a grist of wheat for mill. Sr cleans and oils harness, only one little pig left of five and guess that one will die. Winter pigs no good. I almost believe grippe has me this time sick all day. Evening intensely cold. Volty went to Wellie’s for his team to drive tomorrow to Kingston. Will going too, going to Glenvale to see Jen. Frank Woodman called here, to borrow a bag of coal, Frank going to married a week from Wednesday to Emma Reid. �110 Saturday 11 February 1899 A clear bright piercing cold day. Voltie and Will gone to Kingston this morning. Will going to Glenvale. Maude is better much better. I better too. Grace working hard all day or, I should say buisy [sic]. Sr doing chores all day. Evening not so cold as morning. We go to bed at the usual hour, after Grace has set the table and made coffe for the boys, keeping it hot on the back of coal stove. The boys come at midnight with their grist of flour, beef, and other groceries. V and R.G. eat their supper and retire at one Oclock am. �111 12 Feb 1899 Sunday A clear bright day warmer but frost on the windows not yet gone. V fills the flour can and then R and V and Sr finish and draw the sleigh to the barn to unload the flour which they put in the shop and over head on platform. Grace gone to church, boys reading, Sr oiling the clock, Maud reading. Wellie came for his mail! Wish our family would let Wellie’s mail remain in the office. They sent the children for theirs and found none in the office, to bad. G & r 1/2 p 10 pm �112 Monday 13 February 1899 Colder this morning wind north and cloudy. Voltie gone to Franks to help hang folding doors. Bernard Morgan drove here with young souve and double team. Going to draw hay from Samys which the Morgans has bought of Sam to feed their stock. Bernard wanted Devolson to help draw hay with our team. Tis dreary winter far and near. Volty broke ice and cutting ice G & r till 1/2 p 10 pm. Morgans didn’t come, revival meetings commenced this eve Tuesday 14 February 1899 A clear brilliant day some what milder. Wells drove to Clayton drove across and then down the road. V tried the other saw, it stuck in the ice but affter dinner V loosened the saw and cut a block of ice for a starter. R reading Quo Vadis, Gracie cooked and washed dishes. Rene patched �113 Maud pared apples and moped kitchen floor the ground every where white with snow. Wells returned from Clayton all right except with ticking and (print 40 yrds ticking 10 yds). Grace and Bob went for the mail from there to church. 10 pm all retired except B who sits up reading. Wednesday 15 February 1899 A rather a cold morning wind. S.W. Wells goes to Gananoque to pay Acton, comes home early bringing buck wheat, flour, sodas, candy and 2 spools black thread No 40. Welly and Will and Charley here to put ice in the ice house but blusters so did not to day. �114 16 Thursday February 1899 Charley came for me to go home with him. Found Belle very sick with Grippe. Sarah Simons there and an old fellow named Dan that chops wood. A ryan girl there too. 17 Friday February 1899 Awoke this morning to find my self at Belles though didn’t sleep much last night kept fire all night, old Dan went away this morning. I washed, baked and cleaned floors and waited on Belle. Sarah came again to night and gave Belle another treatment of sweating and poulticing. �115 18 Saturday Belle much better this morning. I clean floors again and cook and bake Clear bright. 19 Sunday a long some day. Wish I was home. Ever so humble there’s no place like home. �116 20 Monday 21 Tuesday �117 22 Wednesday 23 Thursday �118 24 Friday A bright clear day. Charley helping Muriah Sammons draw in straw. Children at school. I try to go to the pump for water but get my feet wet so much mud and water so come back. Belle goes for oats and succeds but her boots are covered wtih mud. 25 Saturday at Bells My poor dear girl done big washing and cleaned the floors looks like a storm. Beatrice and I hung out the clothes all mud around the house. Charles Jr walking on plowed ground with his father’s rubber boots on, fell down in the clay mud. Seat of his pants all mud and boots all mud to the tops. Charles Sr gone to Kingston to mill. �119 26 Sunday February 1899 Charley brought me home and little Gracie came home with me. Rob G here when I arrived. Charley stayed till after dinner. Learned that Mr. & Mrs Gloyd had been here yesterday visiting. Mrs G brought me some honey. 27 February Monday 1899 Cloudy nearly all day we dont do much more than cook and wash dishes. Grace Halliday a good little girl. Bob went home this afternoon drove off up the island. Wells Sr fixing doors and windows, ground all bare weather soft. V tinkering around the shop. snowing after Robert left hard. Hope he will get home all right. �120 Tuesday 28 Feb 1899 Wednesday 1 March 1899 �121 Thursday 2 March 1899 Friday 3rd March 1899 �122 Saturday 4 March 1899 A threatening morning cloudy. Wells Sr drives to Kingston on the ice gone till night fall. Bob comes home with him driving close behind him, a spotted brochon. Will Dixon drove Wellies team up for Jen Riley Burnham & Miss Scott drove up with him. Sunday 5 March 1899 A quiet day. G.B. not well yet got a very bad cold. Maud and I get the meals. V ready, the rest of us visit, relates stories and anecdotes, and so the day passes away towards night the wind rises and shakes the house. Grace pops corn. M and I get tea. �123 Monday 6 March 1899 Frozed quite hard last night a fine day after last nights fearful wind. After breakfast Voltie & Bob start for Kingston driving on the ice After getting started B ran back for V’s old gauntletts and had the due misfortune to tear his storm coat on wire fence. Maud at school. Charley and Belle drove down on wheels bringing the children. Grace sick with worms. Evening visitors Shell, Miss Gordon, Frank Woodman & Will Robinson, Bell and her children. Teusday 7th 1899 Cloudy, Wind N, blowing half gale all day. Weather just at freezing point. Will & Voltie taking Belle across to Gloyds on Will’s ice boat. Maud at school. Charlie, Gracie and Kathleen here. Auntie Gracie carrying Kathleen to keep her quiet till her arms ache. Voltie & his father working in shop Flora Dixon came over to see the children stays all day. �124 Wednesday 8 March 1899 A cold bright day. Wind N ground bare and frozen. Voltie drove with Belle, myself & three youngest of Belles over to Wills to make a visit. Voltie butchered the old sow. Will helped him Charley D over too after butching V and Wm and Chas go to Micheas for turkeys but to small, dont want them. V drove for us at 6 pm had a fine visit and a good dinner. Received a letter from [John|Johnie]] with his photo inclosed. �125 Thursday 9 March 1899 Snow falling fast all am but it will not last long. Warmer this pm, eves running, a tub full of water. V & Wm went to Kingston drove up on ice: returned at 1/2 3. V brought Grace cloth for a blouse very pretty. Charlie drove down for Belle and the children came before dinner and they all went home, driving across the island and so up the North shore home. Wm gave me some herring. I made pickles. I was sad all forenoon but thank God I feel much better in mind. The Lord is my Shepherd I shall not want. Wells Jr went down the Maud looking for hay but found none. at Burhams �126 Friday 10 March 1899 This morning the ground covered with snow, which by middle of pm had again disappeared froze last night, a white frost covering the earth, trees, fences & every bush. Grace finished her blouse this morning and made one for me and a blue apron for herself. I cleaned the red cupboard and the lower part of the butter cupboard and the inside cellar way, wash dishes. Maud stayed home to day. Snog came down and brought buttermilk. Muriel & Hubert at school. Welly carried them: a letter from Rogers for V and W Jr. V burnt them in the coal fire. Grace & Maude went to post office. Maggie Scott and Hattie Joslin came home with them. G rec’d letter from B. �127 Saturday 11 March 1899 A cloudy, soft-day. Wind south thawing all day. Geo Gillespie drove up to Kingston on the ice. Grace cleans floor and sweeps chamber. Irene washes clothes a line full. Grace made a cake. After dinner Voltie hitched Bess before the dog cart and drove to the villiage by the viz of the road, ice poor and roads mudy. Maud has a slight cold sent Belle her music book and Grace’s apron. My Shepard will supply my need Jehovah is his name; In pastures fresh he makes me feed, Beside the living stream. �128 Sunday 12 March 1899 A dark wet night followed y a rainy, mudy, dark, foggy, cloudy, windy morning. Weather could not be much worse. 11 Oclock am and V not home yet. said he was going to stop at Charles’ all night. The roads must be terror to horses and wheels. dont know as V can get home. The house very quiet. Sr writing letters. and I’ll write to Johny. Wallace Niles came after dinner stayed all after noon till 4 Oclock. Bed time and Volty not here yet. �129 Monday 13 March 1899 Volty came last night after 11 Oclock bringing Bob with him. Bob lost his horse Saturday night after band practice driving from Charlie’s to the villiage to Charlies. Horse broke through or droped through in a fishing hole; got the horse out but the horse died last night at 6 pm. This is a fine morning froze by night. Boys are up at breakfast time. Volty gone to Franks to to fix the hog pen. Sr at the barn. Grace reading. Maud reading. B reading. �130 14 Tuesday A gloomy day for B didnot. Maud at home Evening visitors young Mrs Geo Morgan, her brother and Mabel. They came at half past 8 p.m. stayed till 10 p.m. �131 Tuesday 14 March Ground frozen last night. Jen came over after dinner stayed till after supper. Evening time Grace, Voltie, Bob and Maud visit Mrs Niles return at 11. Jen remained till Will and Charley came for her. A gay time this p.m. W Sr and V working in shop. Mr Niles up to the city to day said he met Charley going for the doctor little Gracie. �132 Wednesday 15 March 1899 Froze this morning. Maud gone to school. I washed a few things towels, sheets, shirts and other things. cloudy and stormy raining hard towards night, ground full of water and mud every where. Volty drives to school for Maud and carries Muriel and Hubert home in dog cart. A pleasant lonely quiet day. V fixing Frank Woodmans old waggon. G & F’s Dick and Lydia married to day. �133 Thursday 16th March 1899 A sun bright day after the storm of yesterday, froze hard last night. Wells Sr gone to Kingston drove the dog cart up the road, ice no good now for traveling though. Bob is trying it on skates. Grace and Maud getting dinner. Nelly here for rick & waggon going to draw hay from Michea’s. Wellie has bought two tuns of hay of Michea. Maud at home not doing much but went to Samy’s for eggs. I wrote a letter to Jess. Wells came home just after dark saying little Gracie no better had two Doctors for her to day. �134 Friday 17th March 1899 A fine day only not much traveling on ice or in roads. Grace sent by mail to inquire about little Gracie. Majorie writes that she is no better. Bob and Grace go to Bells for butter, walked on ice. Grace irons the clothes. Maud to school. Evening visitors are Will and Jen, Frank Woodman, Geo Niles, Wall Niles, Shelly Niles, Miss Mary Gordon, teacher �135 Saturday 18 March 1899 A stormy day, a Northeaster snowing all day. Bob and Grace went up in Volties top buggy. Voltie walked cross lots, going to band practice at villiage. Grace going to stay at Belles till Gracie is better. Frank and Will intend going up this evening to band practice but storms so guess they cant go. A stormy gloomy evening and night. Think Frank and Will didn’t go to Marysville. Wills, Maud & I here alone. Eveline sent by V. 11 lbs butter for groceries. �136 Sunday 19 March 1899 Snow covers the earth this morning Wind N.E. rained in the night and this morning. 11 Oclock am and V not home. The house quiet. Maud reading. Sr watering the horses. We are anxious about little Gracie. Dreamed (last night) that she was dead. Volty came after long watching out the west window and said Gracie is better he wanted to hear the Dr’s verdict... and now I can cheerfully get supper for our hearts are relieved of a load of bitter doubt and care. Will came over for his tobaco that V brought him �137 Monday 20 March 1899 A cold windy day, (West wind,) the snow flying across the icy clear crust of snow which froze hard sunday night. Windows covered with frost. Wellie came for his groceries. John Coxall here too and also Frank Woodman.. J Coxall relating his experience to Charlie W’s on account of their filth and untidiness. Evening visitors Robert Ranous and Harry Davis drove here with cutter just after sunset and stay till 10 p.m. [Harry Davis|Harry D]] stays all night wants a sailing berth Voltie complaining of palpfsitation [sic] �138 Tuesday 21st March 1899 A bright morning. Wind N/ Volty and his father go to Macheas for a 1/2 tun of hay. After dinner Volty and Harry D go to the north shore for river wood. They met Ranous’ Co and H. D. goes home with them. I get an early supper. V shaving himself. He going to Kingston tomorrow if dont storm. Clouding over for a storm good sleighing now and cold the house quiet still and lonesome �139 Wednesday 22 March 1899 Voltie this morning goes to Kingston going to the land office and get him a bottle of Dr Agnews heart cure. I clean the pantry shelves and wash all the dishes and Maud and I washed out quite a washing and Maude hung them on the line. Will came up from Franks for Volties cornet and musick. Wm & Frank Woodman going to the villiage to band practice. A cloudy gloomy day wind North looks like a storm. Wellie & Will draw wood from Geo Morgan Sr. Geo M got blood poisoning. Frank W drove to the villiage with our sleigh, wants to get a man or boy bat cant get one. �140 Thursday 23rd March 1899 Voltie came this morning at 3 O’clock am, he had paid Rogers 10 dollars which his father had given him. V stoped at Charlies going up in morning and after band practice. Called again Found Bob there. he came on Tuesday going to stay till Saturday when he will bring Grace home. little Grace better but very weak and thin Awoke this morning to find the rain pouring down, tub full, and boiler too. wind South but hauled West. Thunder and lightning this morning. Clouds break away in pm but snow squalls chase each other V brought white sugar. Belle sent me a dozen new laid eggs and some butter. V brought home Dick’s Violincello. Maud ironing. I bake bread, make cookies cook beans and stew currants for pies. �141 24 March 1899 Friday A very fine day. Reverend Weese here to dinner. Still holding revival meetings. Wellie brought me more butter. Wellie went to church and also Maud, sent Eveline the Quassia cup �142 Saturday 25 March 1899 A beautiful day light & wind, the snow fast disappearing. V butchered his pig. Wellie helped him. Charley and his dog here with the sled. Maud and I done Saturday’s work all right. Let will D have one hundred lbs flour. V going to the villiage to band practice. Expected Grace and Robert home to day but not come yet and nearly four Oclock p.m. may come yet. Miss Gordon and Maggie Scott visiting Eveline this pm looks like a storm in the south and did snow this saturday night. �143 Sunday 26 March 1899 A fine day S wind. Grace and V came home at 2 am expected Robert with them but he went to Kingston Saturday morn. Grace abed till 11 am. arose long enough for her dinner and then went again to bed. Niles here awhile. V went with Wal as far as Wellie’s then came back to Franks and then returned home. revival meeting in church this evening. Frollick preached. V carried Sr a piece fresh pork �144 Friday 1st November Wind South breezy, sun looking down on Earth through billowy clouds and chilly. Voltie began plowing on the grange to day for the first time this autumn. Last nights rain may have softened the ground some. I wrote a letter to Bamford. Ethel Dixon sick and Grace has gone there to see how she is, and stays so long. I think perhaps she & Rachel have gone for butter sweet berries. Well I put some more wood in the stove to keep the fire cooking our dinner. �145 Monday 27 March 1899 A fine day the snow disappearing. Maude goes to school. V & his daddy working in the barn or shop. 12 noon time and nothing transpired for to day worth recording. Grace & V practicing music On eve Franks and Voltie practice on violin & violin cello till 1/2 past eleven p.m. �146 Tuesday 28 March 1899 Arose at 4 am hustled around and got his (Wells Sr) breakfast, he going to Kingston. froze last night. Robert came down, (just after dinner) to make us a last visit for a long time 8 months perhaps. We are sorry he is going away. but if his life is spared he will return again and then ___ Well in evening Robert and I have a long talk about ____ I’ll not write our conversation and betray his confidence even to my diary only I’ll say this, Rob is a good boy. Wells came at dark bringing grass seed, candy, yeast cake, soap &c �147 29 March Wednesday 1899 A stormy morning snowed in the night and still snowing and blowing from the west. Rob bids his good by at 1/2 past 8 and Maude goes in cutter with him as far as school house. Grace takes a nap on the couch in parlor. Wallace came down and made us a visit, lent him a book the "Sea Lions". This is the last evening of our revival. Wellie here in evening. �148 Thursday 30th March 1899 A fine day after the storm of yesterday. Frank W ate dinner with us. Voltie & Will go to Franks to practice their band music. Grace broke sewing machine needle. V borrowed one from Eveline, borrowed a pound of butter from Jen �149 Friday 31 March 1899 A soft bright day, snow going away, plowed ground dirty and fare, water running across flat through the ditches. Maud at school. Will helping V saw wood at the door with cross cut. No tobaco over to Wills. Grace sewing for Maud. Irene made cookies and pies and drank bowl of cider which made me step light �150 Saturday 1st April 1899 A bright day, ground frozen. Sr goes to City driving dog cart. Went for grass seed and a pair of shoes Adams is manufactoring for W. Sr. Irene does the disagreeable buisness of mending old garments and over coat for Sr and also a shirt & a dress for Maud. Grace irons clothes Maud cleans floors. Our mop is an old broken down thing comes to pieces every swipe across the floor. I arrange the Saturday posts for Bob; I’m going to send them next week: W Sr came home early brought grass seed, shoes for himself, letter paper for me, sewing machine needles for Grace, soap, matches &c. John Coxall here playing checkers with V. then came Jen and Will - horn blowing. I gave Jen my white apron with knited lace. �151 Sunday 2 April 1899 A clear cold frozen morning, the ice is still covering the river land locked from either shore but no crossing, patches of snow every where in drifts: West wind but earth mostly bare. Belle sent me butter by her father when he came home; little Grace is much better. The dreariness of this long lonesome day will be ended. How can I best keep my resolution. Grace is napping as usual of a Sunday afternoon. Our spotted cow is sick. Snow squalls are frequent to day. Maud went to Evelines for baking powder . Evening time Wallace our only visitor and stayed till nine Oclock. �152 Monday 3rd April 1899 A very pleasant morning ground somewhat frozen. Voltie and Grace and Maude preparing for the grand concert at the villiage this evening. Tis a band concert and ball to raise more money to pay the ballance of the band debt. After dinner they get started. Will Dixon and Maude in dog cart. Voltie and Grace in the top buggy. Frank and Mary Gordon in Franks top buggy. Towards night, Wall Niles drives to the concert in their old open top buggy and Sr and I are left alone till evening when we were entertained by a visit from John Coxall who stayed till nine Oclock. At 10 I went to bed. A clear starlight night, beautiful �153 Tuesday 4th April 1899 A lovely morning. Sun bright and clear all day. Will came alone at sunrise and he left the ball at 3 this morning. I get breakfast and wash all the dishes At 9 Oclock Wallace comes bringing Grace as far as their gate and she walks to the house from the consession. Voltie and Maud came next, and then Frank & Mary G. Grace received a letter from Robert last night. Bob begings his letter by addressing Grace as "My dear Wife, I suppose he immajines she is or will be and so adresses his letter to see how it looks at the beginning of his letters. Grace, Maud & V took a nap. Grace slept till three Maud till _ Voltie 3 hours. Shell came bringing me buttermilk Inez came too. �154 Wednesday 5 Dont know done to day forget Thursday 6 April 1899 A fine day but windy. Mrs came after dinner and made us a visit all afternoon and stays all night. �155 Friday 7th April 1899 A rainy morning, rains all day steady raining so hard couldnt go for the mail. Saturday 8 April 1899 Volty went for the mail this morning through the mud after the heavy rain of yesterday. A letter from Miss Mabel Gaskin, The Herald, Whig. Maud moped floors. V has a lame arm cant work so reads the polar and tropical world. �156 Sunday 9 April 1899 A very fine day. After breakfast Grace and Maud wash dishes and I employ nearly the whole day writing to Nelly concerning poor Frank Kane who is about to enter a monistary in San Francisco and even now has become a teacher in a monstery Wallace made us an afternoon visit. Grace took a long nap. Evening Grace wrote to Bob and his sister. Monday 10 April 1899 A fine day. Wind South Grace washed. I finished writing to Nellie No visitors the day passed of very quietly and pleasantly. The ice still hangs in the river though the Channel is open. The snow all gone. The ground this morning covered with white frost. Maud at home. Too mudy to go to school. I churned a bit of white butter. �157 Tuesday 11 April 1899 A very fine morning air hollow which indicates rain. Volty put in a horse with Frank and drove to the villiage. They are going to the city. Frank going for a hired man. V going to see about a bank note which is due. Grace cleaned the sides of kitchen all around. I sorted and burnt a lot of old papers from out my bed room. Muriel made us a visit, and brought butter nuts & butter. Wells Sr done all the chores. Wells Jr here going to post letter for garden and flower seeds. Grace and Maud went for the mail. Mr Woodman says that Mr Devolson and Mr Defranklin are not coming home to night and by Swan they had better move to the villiage at stay there for their minds are there all the time and where their minds are their bodies ought to be. A letter from Bob and he wrote that another was missent so Grace received a postal from Washington saying my letter is there. Wednesday 12 April 1899 A cloudy rainy day. Wind South Voltie and Frank at the villiage where they have been since yesterday evening. Frank stay over night, waiting for John Reid to come across. John Reid is going to work for Defranklin this summer. �158 Thursday 13th April 1899 A fine day. Wells Sr trimmed apple trees all day. Friday 14th April 1899 A very fine day. Voltie plowed part of the day. Irene colored rags for carpet. Grace ironed all the clothes. Wells Sr drew brush out the orchard. Lettters Grace one from Bob, Herald and Whig. Miss Gordon, Miss Scott, Frank Woodman & Bob Reid and Jen and Wellie here in evening. �159 Sat 15 April 1899 A fine warm day. Wells goes to Kingston for groceries, came home just after dark bringing Marjorie home with him, brought Wellies groceries. Wellie here in evening from Geo Rattrays finished Geo’s kitchen complete built it, plastered, it build chimney. Wallace Niles here too in eve. Irene sewed carpet rags. I sent Maud over to see is Grannie would come over if V drove over for her. Maud and Grace cleaned the floors. A very pleasant day. Voltie plowed all day Sunday 16th A cold raw day wind North and river clear of ice. Voltie drove over for his grandmother. She came without any breakfast. R turned her out and abused her so she said. Voltie got cold in his head yet but much better. I write to Edna after dinner. Maud & Marjorie go to church. Grace read the "Wide Wide World" and writes to Robert. Will and Charley here awhile. �160 Monday 17 April 1899 A fine day. Grace washed, Grannie reading. Maud & Marjorie at school Tuesday 18 April 1899 fine morning. At the breakfast table this morning, came to the sudden conclusion that I would avail myself of the oppertunity to drive up to Belle with Voltie as he is enroute for Kingston so went But to late for Boat, which went at 8 a.m. so V came back at noon time for dinner. I helped Belle and we done a lot of talking and our conversation was very interesting to ourselves. V took a mop before going to the litterary concert at the villiage. �161 Wednesday 19 April 1899 A very fine day warm Belle washed and Irene helped do the house work and talked all fore noon made bread served rags, the children at school. After dinner Voltie came from the villiage and we came home & had a pleasant drive, found all well at home. Thursday 20th April 1899 A beautiful day The steamboat comes in to our dock for the first time this spring morning, none of our family went up but Wellie. Voltie drove over for the new seeder and other things. While V was away to the dock, Loyd Card drove down and brought him a telgram from Bob to come to Buffalo and I set up till 12 o’clock aranging, planning and getting his thing in �162 Monday 25 Nov 1899 A stormy day ground frozen hard. Snow falling fast, fields covered with snow with the burrows marking a dark line through the pasture. Next summer I hope to see it all planted to seed house beans. Grace is washing. We have washed only a few clothes in two weeks on account of storm and rain and cold disagreeable weather. Wellie came for milk this morning. Says another calf is afflicted with lameness. Voltie gone to foot of Island for wood. Afternoon, snow storm turned to rain storm raining heavy clothes all on the line and wind blowing half a gale all night. Grace out at 10 pinning clothes on line, some on the ground. Frank Woodman here all evening ate supper with us and went home in rain at 10 Oclock PM preceeding �163 Friday 21 April 1899 A beautiful day & Voltie left home this morning; his father drove up with him, and went across to Kingston. V went to Buffalo to go sailing on the lakes. Grace received a letter from Bob. Wells received word to watch out for a telegram and be ready to start any time. The young folks are all here again this eve except Shell and Wallace. Saturday 22 April 1899 A fine day warm and bright. Wells Sr working around getting ready to go away. I churn a little butter, sewed carpet rags & made Johny cake for dinner. After dinner Marjorie & Maud took each a basket and went to the Wetmore place for Lilly of the valley. Ed Weaver come which is a good opertunity for M.H. to go home. Ed waited for M.H. to come at last sent Grace to hurry her along, she missed them for they went to dignam wood for at last they came but Grace could not find them. Marjorie sat at home with Ed. �164 Tuesday 26 November 1899 Wind South blowing a gale all night rain pouring in torrents, clothes twisted on line every way this morning. Cleared away after breakfast so Voltie went to the grange to plow snow & ice all gone but wind howling Tremendous rain and wind squals nearly all forenoon. V came back home just in time to escape getting drenched but Frank and Charlie get the whole broadside. Clears up again at noon & Voltie & Wellie plow till dark. Grace finished Gracies little hood. I finished a pair of stockings for Beatrice and began a pair for Marjorie. Grace finished Mauds dress. Wind hauling to Westward and is colder at dark. Maude a very good girl all day. Barometer stands very low at 29, letters from John, Dick Brown, Wells note from Folger $25 dollars paid. �165 Sunday 23 April 1899 A cool morning wind north, which has driven all the ice to the American shore. The grass is springing green but rain is needful. We are alone this morning except Grannie is here, been here a week this day and Voltie has gone went away Friday. Irene has a very bad cold. Went to bed & slept when I awoke found the house so very quiet & no one here except grannie and Wells in the kitchen reading. Grace and Maud at church commenced dinner before their return. Maggie Scott and Will Robinson came with them but did not stay a long time: a fellow named Little wants to hire here all summer but we dont want him. Pm went to bed again awoke & found Will and Charlie here. Mary Gordon came up from Burnham’s & stoped for tea. Grace went home to Niles with her and stayed awhile. A row bettween Mary & Shell. �166 27 Nov Wednesday Wind West, cold & freezing. Boys plowing. Ed Bates picking his turkeys for market. Maude at school. Grace lining and finishing baby Grace’s hood. Grace got a bad cold. Johns letter announces the arrival of a girl baby. John is pleased and so are all of us. Dear old John. Maud at school. Monday 24 April 1899 A clear day but wind North and breezing. Gran abed till after breakfast. Maud at school. Grace washing. Wells Sr fixing fence. Wells Jr cultivating for wheat. Irene doing general house work pm. Sr cultivating. Jr sowing wheat with seeder, 14 eggs to day. The young people going down the road this evening make of noise. Miss Scott, Miss Gordon, Miss Niles, Mr F Woodman, Mr R Reid &c &c �167 Tuesday 25 April 1899 Looks this morning like rain but proves a failure. The river a calm all day. Irene sowed phlox, snap dragons, morning glories and two other kinds. Sr cultivating. Jr worked sowing wheat this am and went home 1/2 past 11 a.m. Grace took up the dining room carpet and stair carpet, dining room out side window cleaned, kitchen windows and sitting room window, Maud at school. Maud trying to learn kniting. Gran reading "Jeremiah at the centennial or worth Fair. Irene darned socks, cut carpet rags and grated horse radish and several other things. Letters 2 from B, one from V, one for W Jr., Northern transporation Co, Whig, Deering, Sat port, Song Book old Favorites. Grace gone with the rest of young trash down to Burnhams, came home at midnight. Said All Joslin is married this evening to Mary Farr. �168 Thursday 28 Nov 1899 Arose early this morning. Grace gong to Kingston on Pierpont. Sent 13 lbs to market butters 18 cts per lb. Wind blowing strong from south all night but hushed at day break, a very fine day. Milly Woodman died this morning. Voltie went to Kingston with Charley W to get things for the funeral. Jen went up on the boat this morning to go to Mrs Pillars taking the three youngest children with her. Our cattle breaking in here. Irene fixing the fence behind the hay stacks. Sam Woodman driving around the fields in his buggy to head the cattle off with his dogs. Drove them out at last and put the bars up. This evening Voltie is at Mr Woodmans. Maud went to school. Grace not very well. Boat could not stop at Hallidays water so low. A beautiful evening with clear moonlight some gone to sleep. Wellie plowing all day. �169 Wednesday 26th April 1899 A clear morning Wind N all day: wrote a letter to Voltie and washed a breadth of carpet. Gran reading. Grace wrote to Robert. Wells Sr cultivating up by the church. Maud went to school, little Sylvia Woodman commenced going to school to day. Wellie working at home to day. Hubert and Muriel went to school today. Thursday 27 April 1899 A clear warm day. Wells Sr & Grace went to Kingston to day on the Pierpont. Grace saw Nelly, Lill, Edna and called on Mrs Gaskin. a very light Wind North River like a mirror all day. Maud stayed home from school. I churned, fed hogs, milked the cows morning & eve get 6 meals. Wellie worked here in pm. Wellie want I should keep on account his time. I sent V’s a letter, first letter. Grace sent B and Charley Dixon turned out of school today. �170 Friday 29 Nov 11199 A fine warm day. Sarah came this morning to finish sewing for Grace, finishing her dress and making Gracie’s jacket. Voltie plowing. V ate dinner at Wellies, after dinner I went to see mother and the children and Rachel—waked over and found it rather muddy. Had a pleasant visit, had soup for supper which was excellent and came home at sundown with Voltie on the waggon. Voltie, Ed Bates, Grace & Sarah Gillespie gone to Mr Woodmans this evening. Maud has been at school. Wellie plowing too. A fine moon light evening but looks like rain—very warm. Letter from Bamford—going to make another inp. from Chicago to buffalo & back to Chicago �171 Friday 28th April 1899 A clear cloudless day no rain for a long time. The dust follows the pulverizer across the plowed field. Wind South and blowing a stiff breeze. Wells Sr & Wells Jr working in field with five horses. Sr pulverizing with 3 horn & Jr seeding. I cut a pail of potatoes to plant. Grannie fell and skimmed her nose but she didn’t hurt her tongue it wags as much as ever, about an old broach that Jen has got that belongs to her, and about Charley poor Charleyso unsused by the teacher. I wash another breadth of carpet and plant a pail full of potatoes. Wellie worked all day. Sr worked with three horses before the pulverizer till 6 oclock when Lloyd Card drove down for him with a tellegram to go to Millwaukee straight. So he packs up and goes away the last words to me were "Now be sure and go to the dentist. The flower seeds from Moore the �172 Saturday 30 Nov 1899 Cold again. Wind North & freezing. Milly’s funeral at 10 Oclock am. George Niles came home to day. Wellie plowed part of the day. Voltie, Grace & Maud go to the funeral. Sarah stayed home and sewed on Graces wrap. Wallace Niles helped. Voltie drags hay from stack and pitches up into the barn. Maude went to Rachels to get me two eggs and made a little visit. Rachel sent me two books. A clear bright cold day and evening. Grace, Voltie & Sarah went over to Digmans to visit this evening, returned at 1/2 past 11 p.m. I very sleepy and go to bed at 11 pm after making a rousing fire in the stov. Last I remember as I am partly asleep is Grace coming in with the lamp to see if I am asleep, the little round smiling face looking down & saying ma are you sleeping �173 Saturday 29 April 1899 A clear day no rain but getting very smokey. Awoke to find Maude, Grace and I alone excepting Gran. Wellie came while we at breafast. Maud and Grace digging out, sweeping, dusting, washing windows. No rain in 17 days. The farmers dont wish for rain now till their grain is sowed. Will and Charlie came over to dinner. Charley went back for soap. Told C I would teach him arithmetic lessons & geography. Wellie worked here 1/2 day past he employed going to McFadens for oats but got none. Afternoon he worked at home. Miss Scoot & Miss Gordon here awhile. I planted more potatoes and sowed mixed flower seed. Wellie says he has hired young George Woodman and he is coming here on Monday. Wellie came up after dark and got a few potatoes to plant. Muriel came up for vinegar. �174 Tuesday 1899 December 1st This morning lie in bed till 7. A very cold morning Wind South. After breakfast Sarah went home charging Grace $2 dollar only, which Grace paid and then we are alone all day, but I make a few fried cakes and bake the bread. Reading Iron Watchman. Towards night I send Maud over to Rachels with some cakes. In evening reading a story by Mrs Mary Jane Homes entitled Meadow Brook. Like the story exceedingly, well for light reading. �175 Sunday 30th April 1899 A smoky sun bright day, warm, Wind South. Rained a few drops in the night and thunder this morning but no ran in 18 days. Though the grass is green and I’m so sleepy. Maud gone to church came home accompanied by Will, Charley & Flora. Evening Wallace came down and stayed till 9 pm. Monday 1 May 1899 George Snub came to work & worked 1/2 day, plowed place for a few garden beds and by the berrie bushes for potatoes. Thundered and rained in afternoon. Irene washed a few things. Grace painted pantry. Maud at school. Rachel went across the river to Mrs Gloyd’s. Maud went to Niles for fish. Charley went to school to. Miss Gordon all come home through the rain Miss Scott & Gordon here twice after school. �176 Monday 2nd December 1895 Did not sleep very well till nearly time to get up, for one of the cows was thumping and whacking her horns against the house back of my bed trying to eat all the hay from the cellar window. Arose at six to find the rain pouring down, my tub overflowing with soft rain water, about 10 a.m. our rain changed to a snow storm and snowed all day, ground white again. George and Wallace made us a visit. Charlie Dixon here through the storm for their parlor stove oven door. Charlie brought me some krout. Maude a very good girl washing up the breakfast and dinner dishes. Grace finishing her coat. I bottle the wine. As I look out the window what a dreary prospect and no kerosine or matches in house first Voltie goes to Mr Woodmans but they have none and then to Mrs Niles and they have none �177 Tuesday 2nd May 1899 A quiet partialy cloudy morning rained some in the night. 15 past 5 when we arose. Wanted to go to Evelines but cant go Irene sowed pansy seed. Grace sent letters to Robert & Voltie. Mail received letter from Voltie, A letter from Robert, Ladies World, Saturday evening post, Whig and a postal from Martin, the nursery man Continued (see next pages of this book also) from this page in other book 1899 Marked #2 �178 Tuesday 3rd December -95 A beautiful clear cold morning river steaming, Wind N.W. but quiet. Voltie & George Niles gone to Millens bay for kerosine. Nellie here this morning and went too. Wallace gone over the river for their oil which Mrs Niles bought at the corners. Charley Woodman drove in here for a yeast cake and his sheep which will come down and run with our cows. sent a letter by Voltie to his father and one to John by our post office. �179 [top part is repeat of previous page] 3rd May Wednesday 1899 Wind blows fierce and cold from the North all day, keep closed doors to day. Men working in field but I dont work much. Wellie up looking for the trees to set but cant find them, so gave up; found them at last burried in the cedars, mice had knawed them. Told me R had been slandering Robert. Will came over and told me the same. I am not surprised or hurt by any thing. R says its only her nature to slander every one, poor old fool �180 Wednesday 4 December -95 A cold day. Voltie drawing wood from Port Metcaff. A pedlar called here. Our stove pipe & chimney burnt out. pipe red hot, danger of house catching fire. after a while we succed in stoping the draft and build a fire in the kitchen and ate dinner there. Maud frightened and says how will we get the piano & organ out. Thursday 4th My 1899 A very fine morning clear and bright. Arose at 4 am. Wellie came early and drove over to the dock with Grace, 9 doz eggs and 5 lbs butter and five doz egg for Eveline. I done all the chores and cooked for Wellie & Will. Grace came home and brought a little boy to chore around. Arthur Knapp Grace & I sent letters to V and Robert. �181 5 May 1899 A fine day. North wind but not cold. Grace paints pantry ceiling blue. Irene washes carpet and Arthur helps since it at the river. Grannie reading all day. Wellie & Geo W. work till night. Geo stays all night again. Evening Will & Charley are here and all are out on verandah airing themselves. Evening mail a postal from Nettie Naylor inquiring about Lissy. Grace received a letter from Robert. Irene one from Wells Sr & one from Watson. A package of newspapers from Voltie, Whig, Montreal star, and Family Herald. Miss Scott & Gordon were kind and good to bring me Sr’s letter. Will brought me soap. �182 Thursday 5 Dec 1895 Snowing nearly all day. Wellie & Voltie drawing wood from Port Metcaf. Grace cleaning pantry. Wells Jr ate dinner with us had chicken pot pie for dinner. Eveline & the children at her fathers for a days visit. Magret home from school, stormy and cannot go. Ed Bates went to Kingston. Voltie drove for him at evening time. Ed bringing for Voltie blacksmith’s coal & horse shoes and horse shoe nails. 6 May Saturday 1899 A bright Spring day. Wallace gone the villiage for shrubery & dont know how we will get ours. Grace finished painting the pantry ceiling over head. Wellie Sr and Geo Woodman working here all day. Arthur a pretty smart little boy active and willing to help. Geo Woodman plowed by little flower garden. Irene washed �183 and hung out a few clothes, towels, aprons, and tablecloth sent Maud to wellies with a little bundle. 7 May Sunday 1899 A beautiful bright day, a cloudless sky. Excepting once we have had no rain since the 12 of April. The wheat is beginning to show green, Irene wants to go to Evelines but dont know as I can. Grace, Maud and Arthur are gone to sunday school and church. Poor dear old Grannie. �184 Friday 6 Dec 1895 A perfect winter day clear bright & cold. Wind South West and river steaming, sending up clouds of vapor which float away to the N.E. Earth covered white with snow far and wide. Winter has begun early. Wells Sr not yet home. Voltie & Wellie drawing with two teams wood, from Port Metcalf. Eddy Bates here for Volties oars. Ed going to Clayton to meet with his lodge the Order of O.F’s. Will stoping here a few minutes to warm, he related the sad mishap which occured to Rob Michea while on the Pierpont enroute for Kingston. Poor unfortunate Rob lost a twenty dollar bill which he had just demanded of his sister Lizzie Woodman in order to get it exchanged in the office that he might get two dollars which Lizzie was owed him. Grace is washing. A fine star light evening. Voltie working early and late with no help. Evening visitors Wallace, Frank, Jim Morgan, John McDonnel. A letter from Wells Sr & one from the Merchants Bank for Bamford demanding $4.50 �185 �186 Saturday 7 December 1895 A cold morning. Wind in the bright hauled around south not blowing very hard. Our clothes all on the line this morning. Voltie brought them in before breakfast. Voltie goes again this a.m. for more wood & drew a load of logs. Wallace came after dinner and helped V saw up a log. Grace irons clothes, cleans floors, made pies, cookies. Irene bakes bread. A cold raw cloudy Windy half snowy day. Maud is eleven years old this day. I wish we could get a letter from Martin. A dark dull evening looks like rain. My faith looks up to thee Thou Lamb of Calvary Saviour Divine Now hear me while I pray Take wash my guilt away and may I from this day Be wholy thines. �187 �188 Sunday 8 December 1895 Wind North. A cold morning, river looks like a boiling kettle all day, fog rising from its surface and glittering in the clear sunlight. People going to church wraped in warm furs against the slinging cold. Will not yet home. Wells Sr not yet home. Jen and the little ones not yet home. This is a dull day, in a very dull place, in a very dull season of the year, with very few convenience of life. If we wish to cross the river the everlasting roar and tumble of the old St Lawrence with cold northern blasts prevents we can only look across to the Heaven blessed land of promise beyond. If we wish to go to Kingston, we can go once a week by rising long before daylight of a Tuesday morning & going over to the dock on a buck board through the mud or on the sleigh bumpty bump and hurry up or �189 you’ll get left and this privilege is ours only twice more this fall and then & then we must arise yet earlier and the horses must drag a waggon or sleigh 14 miles in time "to get the first boat across to Town so we may get home again the same day. No matter if we do start at 4 a.m. and get back to our starting place at 8 p.m. All the same we have been to town if we only have brought home with us a pound of tea and ,50 cts worth of sugar perhaps a plug of tobao and we have been to the office and paid the Taxes. Monday 9th A very pleasant day. Ma gone to Wills with Nellie, Grace & Maud alone in the house. Voltie doing work out the barn before noon, in the after noon he & Wallace gone to Wills to chop wood, then they come �190 back & go across the river with beans. Get back at dark. Charlie same for Ma, after she came from Wills and she goes home wtih him to stay with the children while Belle goes to K. Tuesday 10th A very good day, the wind blows a little the river steams. Mr McDonnell & Algina came back from across the river, they went over yesterday with our boat. Gina got her tooth pulled. I did nothing more than house work. Charlie & Flora here. No mail to night Wed 11th A very cold Wind North blowing very hard. Wells Jr came up & Wallace Niles came down & help Voltie move the �191 stoves. This stove in the dining room, all gone to pieces so they brought in the kitchen stove, Pike all moved eaten. Voltie killed 6 chickens for market tomorrow & I picked them & try to churn but butter dont come so leave it. Gord Burnside here for cattle. Frank down in the evening. I go to bed at 9 o’clock. Maud over at Wills for the night Sunday 12th Awoke before 4 o’clock in the morn, call Voltie he builds a hot fire, the wind blowing a perfect gale from the North. We eat breakfast at 5 o’clock concluded not to go to the boat for fear she would not come in �192 Voltie & Wellie goes with the cattle. Voltie only goes as far as the Debters hill, Wellie goes all the way to the ferry. the boat did not call at Breakey’s so those that went "got left". Voltie tanked the house Went for Maud. I finished churning. The boys got home from Kingston about 8 p.m. Will & Sam Nesbitt came from the woods rode down with Charlie Woodman Friday 13th So very cold the boys freeze their faces This day is a little warmer the Wind is still in the North but not much to be cold. Voltie shoeing horses. Wellie came up & brought boat to V. I started to clean the floors �193 Will. Sam Nesbitt & Charlie came. Will gives a great description of his trip after they go. I clean the floors & get dinner, my feet so swollen with chilblains I can not get any shoes on so as to wear them. Our cellar froze last night, the coldest night yet. Sunday 15 December 1895 Charlie bought Irene & I home in cutter not so very cold Wednesday, Thursday & Friday were awful days wind North blowing a hurricane and cold as a western blizzard. Belle picked and dressed poultry for market but boat didnt come to the wharf on Thursday morning But they drove up on Saturday as lovely a day as I ever saw. �194 in December: Warm clear sky and every tree, bush & shrub so white with frost that the Earth looks like paradice or fairyland It makes one rejoice to have and behold the soft peaceful splender and beauty of Nature. Little Grace was good all day. Charley and Belle came home at 6 p.m. Well came home but I was sorry to leave Belle. It seems but a little while ago since she was a tiny baby herself and now tis nearly 12 years since she went away to make a home for herself and now has a family of 5 little ones. As time rolls on it unfold things most wonderful. Changing changing always changing. I’m glad tis so glad I’m growing old. I thought to find Wells Sr home when I came but he not here yet. �195 �196 Monday 16th December 1895 Rather cold yet so this day we prepare for Kingston. Wells not here yet we think he’ll come home tomorrow with Grace and Wellie. Tuesday 17 Arise at 4 a.m. Grace and Wells Jr start for Kingston at 6 am and return at 6 pm, raining quite hard but clears away some towards eve. Grace bought me a pair of felt slippers. Wells not come, wish he’d come. �197 �198 �199 Friday 20 December 1895 Wells not home very strange. no dont even hear from him nor Mart somehow I think we may never hear again from Mart. Voltie this evening went for the mail. thought we’d hear from Wells but no letter from him only the terrible news that Will Irvine is drowned this morning about 10 am while fishing. �200 Saturday 21 Dec 1895 A beautiful warm day clear. Wind East changing to South, ground bare: not a vestage of snow anywhere, all our house doors open nearly all day. Voltie working in blacksmith shop. Will & Charlie here cutting up their beef which hangs in our barn. Wells lend them a beef barrel. Irene B wash and mend Irene Halliday’s clothes. Grace makes Irene N an apron. Wells Sr not home yet. I wish he would come home and Maud too. Evening Voltie gone to J Niles to borrow buggy to go tomorrow to the funeral which is held in the episcopal church at 10 a.m. We were surprised by Wells Sr suddenly coming after dark when we had been looking for him all day. Glad to see him once more hale & hearty. A rainy night. �201 Sunday 22 Dec 1895 A very damp morning. Wind South. Grace & Voltie go to the funeral. Rube McFadden drove in here accompanying them from church stayed to dinner. After dinner Wells Sr went down to Wells Jr’s and came back by way of Wills. A soft cloudy day all mud is the ground and bares brown. Pines & cedars are the only green thing to be seen. June went home and to church. Wallace Niles here this evening. Monday 23 Dec 1895 A soft warm cloudy morning, river quiet as a mirror. Voltie plowing. Grace getting dinner. Wells Sr meandering around doing just as he likes, walked over to Wills and came back through the rain. Voltie drove home from plowing through the rain. Raining all evening and nearly all night. �202 Tuesday 24 Dec 1895 The sun arose clear this morning after last nights heavy rain. Very warm like a fine May day. Very light wind South. Voltie & Wellie plowing. Grace washing. Wells Sr doing nothing. A treated him to grape wine, beef & potatoes for dinner. Maud expecting Santa claus. Boys came back from plowing and have gone gun in hand in the boat up to the marsh fishing for wood & hunting game while the day is so very fine: thinking there may not be another one like this day for getting out wood again this fall or winter. Woodmans Boys plow all day. Grace went to mail 3 letters, one to Belle, one to Nellie and one to Quinn. W Sr says this is a day weather breeder. I hope all its children may be as mild. We have to keep open doors this day. �203 Tuesday 25 December & Christmas day 1895 A beautiful warm sunlight morning but ground all bare as August and mudy. Grace thinks she’ll go to Mr Geo Gillespies if Belle & family do not come home. But they came and very glad we are to see them as they drive up to the door with three seats filled. 7 of them and their grandad. (Wells Sr) goes out to the buggy and liftes each youngone out little Charlie bringing his toy gun with catrages. Irene with her doll and Beatrice with her (gold) watch & chain, gifts from Santa Claus. Oh what a noisy happy lot they are long may they have an undivided family and Belle was made happy by a gift from Grace of a warm wool Facinator. Oh Lord we thank thee for thy manifold blessings and little Maud with her Christmas �204 toys of dishes, dolls, game, nuts, candies, &c. Wellie came up for a while but we have not seen any of Wills family to day. Our fine morning changed to rain before night. But they went home comfortably leaving at three p.m. well wraped up & carrying an umbrella leaving Beatrice behind for a week or more. All Barries hired man plowing today. Thursday 26 Dec 1895 Rain tub most full of water this morning, cloudy and windy. Voltie plowing. Wellie here this morning. Wells Sr went to school meeting. J Niles elected trustee. Stove pipe caught fire again. have a tough time with fire & smoke, knock the pipe all down, wind blowing half a gale. Voltie and Grace once more clean the pipe and put it together again. Raining again quite hard wind howling all p.m. �205 Friday 27th Dec 1895 Rain pouring down nearly all night . Wind howled around from South to West. Awoke this morning to find the ground covered with a little snow very much resembling a heavy white frost. Ground frozen some but not hard enough to prevent plowing. Voltie plowing and think Wells is too. Wells Sr dont do much. there is not much to do. Grace makes apple pie for dinner. I darn socks and cook beef and beens [sic]. Sun shining very clearly, & not very cold. Millions of stars were out this morning. After dinner I go over to Will’s on old pumper, roads all wind and mud. As we pass Uncle Smith’s domain (which is his no more) we saw the Woodmans plowing with three teams, turning up the mud in fine shape and Mr. �206 Woodman in the road leaning on the fence and watching the boys turning over the furrows of his new possession. And days "by swan that fence will have to be moved for tis right in the way " and so Laura’s garden fence has to be pulled down. Voltie called for me at sunset came home to find Wells Sr had gone over the river to be gone all night. I forgot to mention Charley Easton here to dinner: came to invite G & V to a dance at John Nesbit’s given in honor of Sam Nesbit. Will & Charlie Dixon came home with us to help V do the chores and stay to tea, then they go to Nesbits to the party leaving Maud, Beatrice and I alone till 1/2 past 5 a.m. Great fiting of cats on veranda & turn Lind [their dog] on them and they scat. A letter from Mr Watson to Maud & I �207 Saturday 28 December 1895 A fair day with here & there a cloud floating away to Northwest. Wind South W: Ground bare. Voltie didn’t plow this day only worked at the cow stables and put brine on the pork &c. Wells Sr not returned from his visit over the river. Wellie came up this morning looking for his mail. Expecting a letter from the Adirondack. The weather is very good & temperature warm [Random names by different handwriting, perhaps Maud Grace D Bamford A A H Beatrice Halliday Sunday 29 Dec 1895 Did not rise very early this morning, after seven a.m. A bright day: river glittering and dancing in the sunlight, warm, ground bare and windy. Wells Sr yet over the river. Shell Niles & John Niles Jr came after dinner stayed awhile. Shell thumped on the piano and then they went home. �208 Voltie went to Wellies and to Wills, came back in time for dinner said Rachel is coming over to tea but she didn’t come. A fine moon light night. Sabath passed of very quietly M. Monday 30 Dec 1895 Wind East & warm. Voltie plowing. Wells Sr not home yet. Don’t know what keeps him but time unfolds all things. Grace washed and hung clothes out before noon. Woodman’s are threshing with machine. Irene made mince pies for dinner. Not much wind, river very calm, cloudy & looks like rain. Wells Sr came in as we were getting up from dinner, been visiting all this time among his various friends and relatives over the way, besides going to Clayton, Saturday �209 Maude & Beatrice gone to Mrs Niles to help celebrate Shell’s birthday and now they are gone. The rain comes tumbling down in fine shape. Wish those youngones had not gone Uncle Sam’s has stoped threshing on account of the rain. Rain drove Wellie and Voltie home from the field. After dark Jack Niles came with Maud & Beatrice bringing lantern & guide them on the way. Tuesday 31st Dec 1895 A terrible wind blowing all night from the S.W. Voltie got up at 1/2 past 3 a.m. and went to look after the skiff and punt which he found nearly afloat and the punt filled with water, so he came back for a pail to bail with and then fastened the clothes on the line more firmly. Well if last night was a bad one the day is worse. The old St Lawrence is in a living rage bashed into �210 fury indescribable. The billows roll up like hills of water and the river is white with flying spray which soars, rolls and tumbles on the shore with a sound like thunder all day long, snow flying. Wind wrenched Niles barn door off. Niles cattle stood in stable all day and horses too except the colts are all day running in out door yard. Our cattle turned out longe enough to drink. Freezing quite hard in p.m. V went to J.N.’s to borrow tea. Frank Woodman came down to make a visit, found V gone so didn’t stay long. just after night fall in walked Mr Hiram Davis looking for voters, his supper and nights lodging and breakfast and he gets all and welcome. They sit up till 10 p.m. spinning yarns of various kinds. I get sleepy and go to bed. barometer very low, below 29, two full �211 moons this month—The first and last of this month. A New Year Wednesday 1st Jan 1896 Bamford Sr built the fire this morning. Wind yet blowing, ground bare, weather more mild. Davis gone this morning electioneering down the Island. Wellie here this morning for butter, gave him three lbs. Sun shining out with a sickly wind all day. V went to Mr Rattrays for our cheese. A new year dance at Wills this evening in Honor of Sam Nesbit. A full methodist attendance. A brilliant moonlight evening with the firmament clear of clouds. Our dancers come home at 4 a.m. �212 Thursday 2 January 1896 Wind South, bare ground. Wellie drives in here for pig feed and cheese. Beatrice and I go home with Wellie on jumper, found Renbe McFaden there eating dinner while waiting for Wellie to come and cut his hair. Eveline washing and not expecting visitors. Nor was Hubert expecting company but cried bitterly because Beatrice had come till his eyes were red & swollen "Afraid of girls" he says. Some day he’ll not be afraid of girls, more the pity. Weather growing colder. Ed at a well stoning bee at Nesbits. Bamford Sr came down towards night. I intended to return home but stayed all night. Will & Charley at W Jr’s in the evening. Lazzy Bates came home after dark. Friday 3rd Jan 1896 Stayed to Wellies till after dinner then Wellie brought Bee and I home again on jumper. Cold and Wind �213 hard from N.W. Gave W. Jr a piece of pickle p. found V at J.N—gone to help Geo saw wood in the woods but proved so cold didn’t saw but came home and after supper went for the mail. Got the Kingston Whig and two letters for Eveline from Rochester. Well here in evening says he had a letter from Jen and must meet her in Kingston tomorrow. I lend him the umbrella for Jen and the little ones. Not much kerosine for the lamps this evening. E Bates at Geo Gillespies working on his boat and so stays to a party at Horns given in honor of Sam Nesbit. Saturday 4 Jan 1896 A cold morning river steaming but not much wind. Voltie & George Niles gone to Millens Bay �214 for kerosine. V says if the wind blows he will not return till the crossing is good. Well the wind does blow and I’ll not worry for the Lord is merciful & good. Charley & Flora came for kerosine but we have none for them. They were very cold so after warming themselves, they went home leaving their bottle behind them till V comes back from River View. Ed Bates came up for V to help him pitch hay in the stable but he went to the Bay. We gave Ed the letters for Eveline. Frank Woodman here for shingle nails. Clear and growing colder. I’m sorry for Jen and the poor little ones this night if they come down from Marguerites in the waggon. Towards night Charlie came again for oil. But Voltie & George not come and we do not expect them thoug [sic] we keep looking out across the river throug the cold fog that arises from the �215 water. Dark night settles over the bare and frozen Earth, the River is hiden from view and now I know they’ll not return to night. Sent Charlie to Wellies for kerosine. Wells Sr builds a fire in the coal stove which is cheerful and brightens the rooms. Wells Sr does the chores alone for the first time since he came home. We enjoy a very pleasant evening, only V is not here. This is the first time he was ever weather bound across the St Lawrence. Finished Marjories stocking and knit a long way on the second one and read page after page in the U. S. History. At nine Oclock pm hear the rumblings of waggon wheels on the hard frozen road which tells of the home coming of Wells Jr, Will, Jen and the children and we sang our prayers, go bed and to sleep. �216 Sunday 6 January 1896 A clear cold morning. Wind N.W. river freezing and vapor rising in clouds a mile high into the sky but closing in with new ice which will soon prevent the rising steam from escaping and then we can see across to the U.S. my own native land, mine by birth right and conquest. Voltie & George yet over the river this morning, weather bound and ice bound. Cows not milked since yesterday morning. Grace playing on organ awhile then goes to the piano plays the "Lament of Lady Isabell in East Lynn" beautiful but mournful. Wish Voltie was home. Wellie came up bring our groceries on sleigh, drives home again, comes back and milks the cows & says Jen & the children came near freezing so they had to stop at Mr Fossets and will stay there till weather gets warmer. Will hurt his knee and arm. Will gone with Wellie’s Team & Niles �217 buggy for Jen & their children. River frozen over sun seting [sic: setting] clear & cold. O cold Canada, the hearts of thy people are warm and generous. No kerosine had to go to bed by the light of the coal fire in sitting room and a wood fire in kitchen. Heard the buggy drive down the road, suppose tis Will, Jen & the children. Monday 6 January 1896 A clear cold (intensly cold) morning. St Lawrence froze from shore to shore. Wellie came up walking on the river from his house to do the chores. We were pleased to see Voltie across the ice from down below Linda’s island with Geo Niles. After dinner V & his father go to election held at the house. �218 school house. Wells Sr walking & Develson skating up the ice. Learned this morning that Will, Jen and the children were obliged to stop twice coming down from Fossets, once at James McDonalds and at Mr Geo Ranous’ to keep from freezing. Ground bare every where and hard frozen not a flake of snow any where to be seen. Came home from Election after sunset. A clear intense cold night wind North and breezy. Frank Woodman here this evening also John Flynn, Frank to report election; Flynn for tobaco. �219 Tuesday 7th January 1896 as cold or colder than yesterday turning black whiskers and earlocks to a snowy white with frost. Seeing is surely believing and therefore we must believe that Uncle Sam Woodman is threshing with the 10 horse power this cold day. Clouds gathering for a storm. A fine snow falling sifting down like meal. Voltie & Wellie gone threshing for Uncle Sam mittened and muffled for and Arctic winter storm. Another new milk cow this morning. A cold time for calves. Indoors all is warmth and pleasantness. Our work is getting the meals, washing dishes, baking bread, setting buckwheat cakes, knitting. Maud and Beatrice transfering pictures on transparent paper from the Spencerman drawing book Voltie goes for the mail, a letter from Harry �220 one from Donald Frasier, two newspapers, "Hours at home", & "Sunshine". A cold night. Voltie a long time at the barn looking after the stock. Made a dozen candles. B.R. Wednesday 8th January 1895 Another cold morning. The ground covered with the snow of yesterday. The Woodmans are yet thresing. W. Jr & Devolson help thresh in p.m. Eveline sent as a present to me a beautiful new skirt which was a very pleasant surprise. But its just like Eveline to be thoughtful of, and good to others. Irene churned and made 7 butter prints and sent Eveline 3 of them. Shelly here this P.M. Grace & V went to Mr Niles in the evening and found the boys i.e. Geo & Wall had gone to Horns and Mrs & Mr N gone to Wills. therefore G.D. visited with Shell and Ina and Jack while Voltie in company with �221 Frank W and Ed Weaver went calling on Old Mrs Flynn. A dance in progress at J Wilkinson’s Friday evening of this week. V & G came home at 1/2 9 p.m. A circle encircles the sun which indicates a storm. Thursday 9 January 1896 Weather more mild: Snow fast falling. This morning ate breakfast by candle light. Wells Sr Wells Jr & Devolson cross the river on ice. Sr going to Clayton and Jr & V going for the kerosine and possibly may go to the Cape. I finished Marjorie’s stockings which makes the 4th pair I have knit for Bells children. Grace cleans floors. Wallace N here: �222 Friday 10 January 1896 Rachel came over to day and brought a quantity of cloth for a quilt. Saturday 11 Jan 1896 A very pleasant day. Grace swept and dusted all the rooms, parlor, sitting room, dining room pantry, bedrooms, kitchen. Beatrice & I go with V in cutter on the ice to Wellie’s to see the things Ada sent Eveline from Rochester. E pleased with the new books and Muriel with her doll. �223 BB Sunday 12 January 1896 A very quiet Sabath day, all resting and reading except Irene B reads nor rests all day. V & G intending to carry Beatrice home in cutter but storm snows and blows so from the South they stay home till after dinner when V drives over home with Beatrice. Rachel wanting to go home but stays all night for her boots are very bad for walking. Monday 13 Janurary 1896 Temperature of weather moderate (or medium) Cloudy with dark masses of clouds lying of to Southward. This is writen before breakfast which is nearly ready. Our men waiting a few minutes. After break fast �224 Wells Sr goes to OBriens to get two shoes set on Jess’s hind feet. V working in the shop. Wellie brought up the grist. Gave Will H flour. Will Winmill came across the river looking for straw. Straw is $8 dollars per load. Hay from $16 to 18 dollars per tun. R went home on the sleigh with Wellie. Winmill ate dinner with us. Will & Charlie came over & Voltie helped Will rig the bat winge sail to the ice yacht and away the skim over the the St Lawrence. Began snowing about 1/2 past 3 pm faster than ever so thick the snow is falling can scarcely see the base. Wellie here and went home on the ice through the falling snow after supper. V went to Jr’s on the ice and stayed till bed time scarcely any wind. D Breakey drove in here to engage W.D. to assist him while plowing �225 Tuesday 14 January 1896 Arose early. Breakfast by candle light. Wells Sr gone to the Ferry for coal. gone all day brought home sugar, onions, coal, raisons. Maud went to school this morning. Went with Wells as far as the school house. Spent the fore noon writing letters. Wrote to Mrs Lindley & Watson. After noon worked in pasture. Frank down here running nets for fish. Welly and Ed up here awhile. Welly & Voltie sawing wood for night. A clear fair day growing colder freezing. Wednesday 15 January A fair winter day. Ed Bates here helping set sturgeon nets. Wells Sr drove with Maude to school went to OBrien’s came home and drove to J Niles with a bag of coal we have been owing him for a year. W sold �226 John Flynn a cow for 21 dollars. Devolson drove over for his grandmother, soup for dinner. Grace patching my block dress. I cleaned cupboard in pantry. Wellie started for the Adirondack mountains to day. Grace & Volty going to the Morgans this evening. Went—drove Jess. She kicked scared and nearly broke the cutter coming home, stayed till eleven p.m.—nearly midnight when they return. I sleep on the couch. Sleep warm enough but miserable. Thursday 16 Jan 1895 Awoke this morning with a lame back. Wind South and cold, cloudy looks like snow with barometer pointing fair. Bamford Sr at OBriens getting cutter irons. V & Ed Bates running fish nets a fine pike. Grace makes mince pies, cookies & biscuits. Slept up stairs on the slat bed. �227 Friday 17th January 1896 A fair winter day, snow not deep any where. Charlie Woodman here at the black smith shop. Charlie W & Will Dixon help Voltie butcher beef. I churn and make butter prints for market (8 prints). We dress 8 turkeys for market and get every thing ready for tomorrow’s market: my back so lame can scarcely walk. Sleep on lounge. Saturday 18 Jan 1896 A very fair day. Volty, Grace and Will Dixon gone to the city on O’Brien’s bobsleigh and return after dark bringing Nellie Guy with them. Maud & I work like split all day doing Saturday work, pantry & dining room scrubed, swept, made beds, cooked and by the time they arrived from the city had everything in shining order, parlor, sitting room, dining room, bedrooms, and �228 pantry. Wells Sr cleaned the kitchen but I’m tired, but all is bright, warm and cozy with supper on the table and they come ladened with good cheer and bright faces, after tea the visit begins in earnest. Nell & Voltie play the piano. Well 12 Oclock midnight all retire for the night. Sleep on lounge. Sunday 19 Jan 1896 A snowy morning. A dreary prospect without but happy and contented heart’s within doors to stormy to go to church. [Lauett?] visiting and reading all day. Voltie drives over to Wall’s taking his grandmother home but they set up so late at night. Frank Woodman came down and stayed all evening. Sleep in south bedroom. Monday 20 Jan 1896 A fine winter morning weather moderatley fine. Wells Sr goes to Kingston to pay some small bills and returns early E old Bates account carried by Will drives to Maryville with a load of potatoes for Baker. Nell and �229 ate breakfast at 1/2 past nine. City style I suppose. Grace got a bad cold. Wells Sr comes home before dark bringing cough medicine for Grace, and a great package of candy which is joyfuly accepted by the young folks. Set up late again this evening for tomorrow Nellie has to return to the city. Well Marjorie came home from school with Maude bringing her school books and clothes in a basket. She came down with her father when he came to OBriens blacksmith shop, dear little Marjorie is not gong to be cheated of her visit, Beatrice & Irene having made theirs. Sleep on lounge. Tuesday 21 Jan 1896 A fine winter day cloudy and warm coast driving on the ice going to Kingston with heavy loads of hay. Davis & Will Allen with each a toll house & brick �230 ice. Devolson drove up to Kingston on ice taking Nelly home. McKinn & Connely here to day staying last night at Charleys and have drove back there to stay over night again. V came home at night 6 Oclock p.m. Wells drove to school for M & M. Sleep in my own bed. Wednesday 22 January 1896 A beautiful winter day somewhat colder. Wind North bright and clear good sleighing. V drove down the ice for Sadie. She going to make Grace’s ball dress. McKinn & Donely here to dinner, went as they came. V carried M & M to school on jumper. George Niles drove for them at evening. A party small and select at Mr OBriens this evening. G & V attended but when V drove down for Dora too She could �231 not come, having evening visitors and Mrs Gillespie sent Sade a note saying she didn’t like her daughter to attend dancing parties. So S like a good obedient disapointed child, stayed home. The party dispersed at 12 midnight. Sleep on lounge. Thursday 23rd January 1896 A dull cloudy day Wind N.E. Sarah finishes G’s dress. V, George and Wallace bush a road form here to the U.S.A. by the elem [sic] tree below Beadles. Sarah finishes Grace dress. Sleep on the lounge. �232 Friday 24th January 1896 Raining and freezing: ice on every thing, trees bending under their load of ice. Sarah is obliged to stay all day which does not appear to be very disapointing, she reads and makes a small wall which is very pretty. A letter from Flora and one from Nelly Guy with V’s photograph proofs. M & M stay home to day from school on account of rain. Will here awhile. Evening in parlor. Piano playing by Grace . [Wailying?] by V & S at 10 pm I succeeded in driving them all to bed. I sleep on lounge �233 Saturday 25 January 1896 A soft snowy day. Eaves running a tub full of soft water. Voltie drove to Mr Gillespies with Sarah. R came over for butter milk (walked over). Will & Charlie running their pike nets caught a big sturgeon in a pike net which was a surprise. R brought some [illegible] and dried corn. A row at the lower school. M & M studying arithmetric and sewing carpet rags. I’m very sleepy. Grace cleaning floors. I tidied up the pantry shelves Voltie from his nets took 6 perch and one sucker. W. Jr here got a cold in head. Voltie in the evening went to C.M Woodman’s to see Frank about going to the U.S.A. Ball at [illegible] with two horses, in order �234 �235 �This document would not be possible without the editorial contributions of the following people: Ann Hopkinson, carol ann, Alexandra Holmes, MaryV, Vivian Zhang, Ella Deering, Ben W. Brumfield, Jane Phillips, Queen’s University Archives, and Eric Irvine � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Collection Subject The topic of the resource 19th and 20th Century Rural Ontario Diaries Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Courtesy of Queen's University Archives Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1887-1922 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Frontenac County, Wolfe Island, Ontario Table Of Contents A list of subunits of the resource. Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1887 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1888-1889 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1889-1897 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1890 March - June Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1893-1895 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1895-1899 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1896 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1897-1898 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1898 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1899 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1899-1900 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1900 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1902, 1906 parts of Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1902-1909 parts of Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1904-1905 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1907 & 1918 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1908-1919 parts of Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1911 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1913 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1913-1914 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1915-1916 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1916-1917 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1917-1918 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1918 Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1921-1922 Language A language of the resource English Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Transcription, 1895-1899 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Irene Dixon Bamford Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Courtesy of Queen's University Archives Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1895-1899 Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 19th Century, Frontenac County, Wolfe Island, Ontario Date Created Date of creation of the resource. August 1, 1895 Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. Irene Dixon Bamford Diary Collection Medium The material or physical carrier of the resource. Typed Transcription UG Transcription Progress Scripto transcription progress Done transcribed