Journal of Hattie L Sommerville    

1901 Keosauqua, Iowa

Hattie Campbell Sommerville wrote the following journal at the turn of the century. Although it is not a personal diary, it gives us some insight into what life was like one hundred years ago. Hattie was the great grandmother of Larry, Mary, and Millie Rettinger and the grandmother of Josephine Warner.

Transcription of this document is not exactly as it was originally written. I have tried to keep the writers original intent but have leaned more toward readability where possible. One hundred years ago a common practice in writing was to put together a number of related ideas in a sentence and separate each with double or triple spacing. This, of course, makes the material difficult to read. So I have split these long unstructured sentences into smaller complete sentences. Words that I could not decipher are left with best guess in brackets. (i.e. [   ] ) I would very much like to hear from anyone who has a better best guess on these, than the one I have selected. Also Hattie had a tendency to abbreviate peoples names with the first letter followed by an underline. (i.e. E_ ) If I knew whom the abbreviated name referred to, I changed it to the unabbreviated version of the name. If I did not know whom the abbreviated name referred to, I left it as is. Definitions and comments of the transcriber are shown as footnotes.

In reading Hattie’s Journal, I have tried to make some observations about the Sommerville’s and their lives. The following are the things that come quickly to mind. I welcome any others that readers of this journal might like to add. I also welcome any insights into the events described in this journal, which I may have missed.

1.     Blanche and George Morrow are having some sort of difficulty in their marriage.

2.     Hattie is pretty much raising Blanche’s children.

3.     Death was everywhere.

4.     The Sommerville’s were somehow involved with a store. They either owned it or worked for its owners, cleaning chickens and canning fruits and vegetables.

5.     Hattie was an accomplished seamstress and made money sewing for friends and neighbors.

6.     Hattie must have had a foot-operated sewing machine.

7.     Traveling stage plays and shows were very popular up at the opera house.

8.     George’s spells could have been epilepsy.

9.     Hattie was a very religious person.

10.  Ice cream was real popular on a hot day.

11.  Hattie must have been a midwife, a semi-doctor, and nursemaid. When someone was sick, they sure knew who to go to for help.

12.  It’s no wonder Hattie had headaches. She took on all the burdens of the entire community.

In the year 1901 when most of the events in this journal take place, the Sommerville family is living in Keosauqua, Iowa a small town located in SE Iowa.

William (Will) Sommerville is 60 and a Civil War Vet. He was wounded in the Civil War but it is not known if wounds were permanent. From this account it would appear that he had no disabilities.

Harriet (Hattie) Campbell Sommerville is 44 and author of this document.

Blanche Ann Sommerville is 24

          +George Morrow is 25   

Margaret Morrow is 5

                   Io A Morrow is 4

                   Van F Morrow is 2

          Edith M Sommerville is 22

          +Wesley J Shaffer is 32

                             Lenora Shaffer is 4

          George F Sommerville is 20

          Ruth Sommerville died in 1888 at age 4. She would have been 13.

          Cleo Sommerville is 15

          Mildred Belle Sommerville is 13

          Philip Sommerville is 10

          Seth Sommerville is 8

          Crete Sommerville died in 1897 at age 2. She would have been 4.

Notes: Downtown is about 2 blocks away from the Sommerville house.

Dec 23, 1900

Got up feeling so miserable but went to work, cleaned up and baked a big cake frosted all over and then baked 2 small cakes and candied them. Made some candy. In the afternoon Will and I cleaned 9 turkeys. The nicest ones I ever cleaned.

Dec 24, 1900

Did up the work and made an apron. About eleven they brought some more turkeys and after dinner we went to work on them. Cleaned 12 turkeys and four chickens. One was for ourselves. Got it already for baking next day. After supper I baked pies. The children all went to the church for their treat. Wess and Edith come in, and Edith and Millie went to the Christmas choir. It rained some and it got sloppy.

Dec 25, 1900

Christmas. All were up bright and early and were pleased with what they got. Had all the children home for dinner. Also Edith and Jesse Lindel. They all had a good time. I got some nice things. Will gave me one to. Mrs. Morton gave me a fur colonel. Just what I wanted for so long. Bess Manning sent me a brown pitcher. It is so cute. Jess gave me a nice salad dish. Went over to Bennett’s tonight.

Dec 26, 1900

Washed today. It has snowed, rained and the sun shone by spells. Went over to Mrs. Morton’s this afternoon. Went to prayer meeting tonight.

Dec 27, 1900

I sewed this morning. This afternoon I cut out my waist^[1]. Edith gave me made it hair.

Dec 28, 1900

Finished my waist today. The boys both got new shoes today.

Dec 29, 1900

Went to Sunday School and church tonight. Mr. Perkins had a new choir of 11 girls and 6 boys tonight. They done fine.

Dec 30, 1900

A bright sun shiny day. The brightest this month. I washed this forenoon. I went over to Bennett’s. She is very bad not able to talk much. Tom and Nettie was down yesterday. She and baby Ralph staid.

Dec 31, 1900

The last night of the old year. It don’t seem long, but lots has happened. Went up to see how Margaret Manning was this morning and found her not so well. So I staid and helped Bess awhile. Edith came in and we went up to Bennett’s. She is very low. Came here and then went up to Blanche’s. This has been a beautiful day. I hope the New Year may be as beautiful as the day has. So I close the old book and wish the New Year may be a prosperous and a happy one. Goodbye.

Blank Pages

March 1, 1901

March come in like a lamb. Has been nice all day but very muddy. Took a good clean up this morning. Washed windows and washed all my plants. Miss Perkins entertained her Sunday school class this evening. Seth and Margaret were there. Millie and I were over to Mary Bennett’s tonight.

March 2, 1901

It has been a variable day. Sun shine, cloudy and rained some. Today rubs April according to the old saying. Sent my order off for flower seeds and Floral Guide. Baked bread and cake. Dressed chickens and cleaned up for Sunday.

March 3, 1901

Went to church this morning. Blanche and family were here for dinner. Had chicken both roasted and boiled. Had fruit salad. Today Cleo is 15 years old. Blanche and I walked out to Wersi’s after cleaning. The wind almost blew us away. Will Shaffer is not expected to live through the night. His mother came last night. The ice began going out today. Was at church tonight.

March 4, 1901

Have put in a faithful day. Win Bennett come for me just after I got up to come over. Mary was worse. I went and staid until noon. She is awful bad. Will Shaffer died at 2 o’clock last night. He will be buried at 2 tomorrow. The funeral will be at the church. The IOOF will bury him. This afternoon I put the binding on Edith’s black dress. Went up to Mrs. Shonnes and got a Vail. Alice and Bon were here awhile and about 4, I went back to Bennett’s and staid until 9 o’clock. I began to feel tired.

March 5, 1901

Has been a terrible day. The wind has blown a gale all day and it has snowed some and the sun shone some. Worked all day. Went to the funeral this afternoon. It was at the ME church. That makes the second time I have been in the church. Went to the cemetery. It was a cold ride. Wess was not able to come in. Lenore is not well. Afraid they will be sick. Staid at home tonight. I have a headache and am tired.

March 6, 1901

Been a bright sun shiny day but cold. Went over to Mrs. Morton’s this morning. She and I went to Mr. Hales to see his sister that is so sick. Myrtle Bennett was here. Also Belle and Jessie Shaffer. Wess is real sick so they said Margaret is here to stay all night. Cleo has gone to the theater.

March 7, 1901

Another pretty day. I was here this morning. Went to see Mary Bennett this afternoon and also Mrs. Morton. She and I went to prayer meeting tonight.

March 8, 1901

I ironed this morning. Will went out to see Wess. He is better. Edith was here for dinner. I went as far as the depot with her on her way home. Called on Emily Smith, Mrs. Shoves, Mrs. Bess Manning, Mrs. Savage, and Mrs. Morton. Been reading tonight. Wish it would rain.

March 9, 1901

Today has been a cold windy drizzley day. I got my flower seeds today. A nice lot. Cleo got her a new pair of shoes. She earned them herself and is proud of them. Mildred has been up at Ethel Cornell’s all afternoon. Kate French is here and a lot of girls went there to play. The wind is howling and it is raining. Do hope it will rain all night.

March 10, 1901 –Sunday, 1901

It rained all night and off and on all morning. Turned to snow this afternoon and now the ground is white. The wind blowing and it is cold. Went to church. Read this afternoon. Went again tonight. Mr. Perkins finished his story. Mrs. Retcham died at 2 o’clock this afternoon.

March 11, 1901

A very pretty day. The snow is all gone. Baked bread this morning. Cut carpet rags this afternoon. Edith and Jesse were in this evening. Bought Belle in for the 5 o’clock train. George went home with them. He is going to work for Stan tomorrow. Millie and I went up to Bess’s this evening and then to Morton’s. Hope it will be nice tomorrow.

March 12, 1901

Been cloudy and windy all day. I washed and the wind blew my clothes dry. This evening we had our first spring shower with thunder and lighting. Sewed my first ball of carpet rags^[2] this afternoon. My but the wind is blowing tonight.

March 13, 1901

Has been a miserable day. Stormed all day. Ironed this morning and tore carpet rags this afternoon.

March 14, 1901

Another bad day. Was over to Blanche’s most of the morning. Myrtle Drew was down to see about the house. Sewed rags this afternoon. Papa stated today that ex-president Harrison died at 4:45 yesterday. A good man gone. Went to prayer meeting. Such a few there. It is a shame.

March 15, 1901

The sun has shone today but the wind was cold. This was my 44th birthday. Will and I went out to Edith’s and spent the day. Am tired and have the headache. Mildred has [Nevbalgue] tonight. Cried so we give her morphine to quiet her. Hope it will be over with by morning.

March 16, 1901

Has been a very nice day. Have not done much. Had Blanches children here all day. She is all torn up^[3]. Mr. and Mrs. Morton went to Chicago today. I was over to see Mary Bennett’s tonight. All the talk we hear now is small pox. Have the headache tonight and don’t feel good at all. I got a letter from Jo Mears today. The first in five years.

March 17, 1901

Has been a nice day. Did not go to church today. I have not felt well all day and besides Blanche’s folks were all here all day. Went over to Mrs. Johnson’s and the Bradey’s and read them my letter. Millie is staying all night with Myrtle Ellis.

March 18, 1901

Another nice day. Blanche got moved. The children have been here all day. I made Myrtle Ellis a gown this afternoon. Have the headache tonight.

March 19, 1901

Has rained all day. Been sorting our summer clothes. Made Lenora a pair of drawers and finished Edith’s silk cushion. Have felt miserable all day. Can scarcely stand up. Mrs. Mary Smith died today. Poor woman. She has been a walking skeleton for years.

March 20, 1901

Has blowed and snowed all day. A real winter day. Sewed rags all day. Wrote a letter to Frank^[4]. Mrs. Smith was buried today. Bon was up awhile. Millie has gone to stay with Myrtle.

March 21, 1901

Has been a pretty day. I washed this morning. Edith and baby were in this afternoon. Have been reading Casa Braccio. Just finished the first volume. Went to prayer meeting. Myrtle went with me. I read tonight.

March 22, 1901

Ironed this morning. Went up to Blanche’s this afternoon. They have a very nice looking place if they take care of it^[5]. Have a terrible headache. Will have to go to bed.

March 23, 1901

Cloudy this afternoon. Began raining at noon and is still at it. Sowed cabbage, tomato, and flower seeds this morning. Mildred went to Edith’s. Was over to Mrs. Morton’s this afternoon. She got home from Chicago yesterday.

March 24, 1901

Sunday and a rainy one. I do dread rainy Sundays. I went to church. After noon it cleared up. I went to see Mary Bennett’s. I was almost dead with headache, but went to church. It was all I could do to get home.

March 25, 1901

Has been cold and disagreeable today. I have felt awfully. I took calomel pills last night. Made Seth a pair of pants this afternoon. Was over to Mrs. Morton’s tonight.

March 26, 1901

Have felt too bad today to do anything. Got a letter from Belle D Benney today.

March 27, 1901

Been a dull cloudy day. Washed but did not put out but a few things. Patched some and read some. Don’t feel very good.

March 28, 1901

Put out my washing in the morning and I canned all afternoon. Went to church in the evening.

March 29, 1901

Was over at Mrs. Morton’s this forenoon. Went to Mary Bennett’s this afternoon. The weather has changed again. It is blowey, snowy, and rainy tonight.

March 30, 1901

Been gloomy and bad all day. Made carpet rags this afternoon.

March 31, 1901

A beautiful day. The old saying has failed for March. Came in like a lamb and has gone out the same. Went to church. Edith and Jesse come in today. We went to the cemetery this afternoon. It is nice up there. Went to church tonight. Millie led the Endeavor tonight.

April 1, 1901

All fools day has been a cloudy cold day and tonight it is raining. For a rarity been at home all day sewing rags. Mrs. H Manning was over this evening awhile. George started to work for Stan today.

April 2, 1901

Snow on the ground this morning but it turned to rain and has been bad all day. Been sewing rags again. Mrs. Savage was down and I tucked a black silk front of a dress for her. [Wormleys and Phlios] had their 5th annual opening today. They gave carnations.

April 3, 1901

Has been a beautiful day. Washed this morning. Myrtle Drew was down today. Went up to Bennett’s this afternoon. Mary is better. She was out in the back yard. The first time since December. Over to Mrs. Morton’s this evening.

April 4, 1901

Another pretty day. Ironed this morning. Edith and Jesse and Blanche were in this afternoon. Began Cleo’s waist this afternoon. Mrs. Morton and Mr. Perkins were here this afternoon. They want me to go into the church Sunday. I will be voted on tonight so I did not go to prayer meeting. It is the second time I’ve missed this year. Was up to Bess Manning’s and spent the evening. Margaret is still in bed, but better.

April 5, 1901

Has rained all day. A real spring rain. Finished Cleo’s waist. Bon was up and Blanche was down awhile. Went to church tonight. Mr. Perkins preached a good Friday sermon. It was very good. It is still raining and the wind howling.

April 6, 1901

Cleaned up good this morning and worked with my flowers. Baked a cake and colored Easter Eggs for the children.

April 7, 1901

About 7 o’clock last night I was sent for to come to Bennett’s. Went and found Win very sick. Mary and I sit up and done for him until 2 o’clock when he got some better. I lay down but did not sleep much. Come home about 8 o’clock and got the boys ready for school and myself ready for church. I was made a member of the Congregation this morning.

April 7, 1901

It has been a changeable day. It rained a very little early. Then the sun shone and it is now cloudy. Looks like it might rain before night. 25 years ago tonight my father died^[6]. How much has happened in that time. Am going to the Easter concert tonight and to Bennett’s to stay all night again.

April 8, 1901

Staid all night at Bennett’s. But slept. They are better. Come home and cleaned up things. Will and I cleaned off the yard after dinner. Was over to Mrs. Morton’s awhile. Belle Shaffer was here also Georgia Kittle. Went to see Otto Stedger baby. She is very sick. Was over to Mr. M again tonight.

April 9, 1901

Did a big washing this morning. Worked out in the yard all afternoon. Am very tired tonight.

April 10, 1901

I ironed off and on all day and worked out of doors. Will and I filled in and leveled off the street. He put in the onions. Want to put in all we can now. All the children have been at home today. Am awfully tired tonight.

April 11, 1901

Not done much this morning. Was over to Mrs. Morton’s awhile after dinner. I went up to Blanches. Mr. and Mrs. Morrow and Emma were down. Emma had her babies pictures taken. Came home by Stedger’s. Their children are better. Went to Prayer meeting tonight. Today is Ma’s 68 birthday^[7].

April 12, 1901

Have felt bad all morning. Planted some flower seeds today. Mrs. Johnson was here. Edith and Belle were in. We all went downtown. Wrote a letter to Frank tonight.

April 13, 1901

Been a changeable day. Took a good clean up. Had it all to do for Millie went out to Edith’s yesterday and staid all night. Dressed a chicken for the store and one for myself and cut the end of my third finger real bad. Made the boys each a pair of pants and patched. Was downtown this afternoon too. Have the headache.

April 14, 1901

Went to church this morning. Belle went with me. She and Edith were here for dinner this afternoon. We all went to the graveyard. Was so tired but went to church tonight. It has cleared off. Do hope it will stay pretty for awhile.

April 15, 1901

Has been a fine day. We worked outside most of the day. Put in our beets, set out my mums, put in some flower seeds. Will put up my ashes. Mary Bennett was here this afternoon.

April 16, 1901

First thing I heard was rain. It kept up all morning. I made 2 pairs of pillow slips and part of Cleo’s skirt. Blanche come down and we went downtown. She got the girls shoes and new hats. Did not see anything I wanted. Went over to Mrs. Morton’s. Myrtle came home today. Her school was closed on account of small pox. Hope Myrtle is not exposed.

April 17, 1901

The sun did get out today awhile but it is cold. Baked bread and washed Mrs. Morton’s lace curtains but only dried and ironed. I am feeling awfully. Had a nervous chill. Fire company was called out about six to Jim Frazees. He got it out before they got there. My fruit trees come today. They look real nice.

April 18, 1901

Froze ice last night. Expect our fruit is all killed. Washed this morning and finished the curtins. Blanche and family were here all day. Edith and Jesse were in. They brought me some cream. Quarantined the Watkins children today for fear they had been exposed to small pox. Also Myrtle Ellis. Jubilee Singers are at the Opera House tonight. I went to prayer meeting tonight but it was so hot I got sick and had to come home.

April 19, 1901

Have not done much of anything today. Have felt miserable. Was over to Mrs. Morton’s most of the afternoon. Come home and dressed two chickens for the store.

April 20, 1901

Have worked hard all day. Put off my ironing until today so I would have Millie’s help but Blanche sent for her. She had the headache so I had all to do. Baked bread and cake and cleaned up. Am awfully tired tonight.

April 21, 1901

Has been a pretty day. I have felt bad all day. Did not go to church. Edith and Wess were here to dinner. Otto Stedger’s little baby was buried today. She died yesterday.

April 22, 1901

A very pretty day. Washed this morning. Feeling awfully. Haven’t had such a cold all winter as I have now. Going to drink some hot lemonade and go to bed.

April 23, 1901

Ironed this morning. Felt so bad. Could hardly go. Don’t know when I have had such a cold. Blanche came down and wanted me to go downtown. I went. Got me a new hat and Millie too. Blanche got her a gingham dress.

April 24, 1901

Have felt better today. Only my headaches so. We made soup. About 30 gallons. Put out my dahlias and my geraniums. The ones I had in the cellar. Belle Shaffer, Mrs. Brady, and Mrs. Morton were here today. And Mrs. Cornell, she brought sewing.

April 25, 1901

Has been a beautiful day. Been making Millie a dress. The little girls^[8] were here for supper. Went to prayer meeting. Was a good many there.

April 26, 1901

Been sewing today. Got the girls dresses all done but the button holes. Will spaded up two flower beds today. Had my first mess of greens today. Went over to Bennett’s this evening. Mary had one of her bad spells. And Myrtle has had the tooth ache and her face all swelled up.

April 27, 1901

I has been so hot today. Cleaned up all the yard this morning and finished the girls dresses. The girls were in this afternoon. Edith and I went downtown. I got Millie’s and my hat today.

April 28, 1901

A beautiful Sunday. Everything looks so nice. The trees are beginning to flower. Went to church. Belle Shaffer come to dinner. She had come in to go to church. Millie and I went over to Bennett’s this afternoon. Went to church tonight.

April 29, 1901

My but it has been hot today. Worked in the yard awhile. Will spaded. Mrs. Morton’s flower beds. Went to the church to get my carpet. It was worse worn then I thought. But took it as I had promised to. Blanche’s family were here to dinner. Sorted out rags this afternoon. Put out my geraniums tonight.

April 30, 1901

Worked hard all day. Cleaned my two closets. Put away my carpet rags and sorted over things. Planted the rest of my flower seeds. The sign was right.

May 1, 1901

A nice day. First we washed the clothes. Then we washed a quilt and blanket for Mrs. Morton and one for myself and pants and overhauls. Got the cupboard all cleaned out on the porch and the summer kitchen all cleaned and almost papered. Got the rest of my carpet today. The children were all out. May [basketing] tonight.

May 2, 1901

Cleaned up this morning and went to sewing. Made two shirts and part of two more. Also tucked a waist for Myrtle Ellis.

May 3, 1901

Was cooler this morning but it got hot. Ironed this morning and hoed some. Edith and Lenore come in and stayed all day. All my neighbors have been in today. Went over to the Doctors office with Mrs. Brady. She is very poorly. Heart trouble. Set out about 75 cabbage plants tonight and some tomato plants. Is cloudy. Do hope it will rain. We need it.

May 4, 1901

Worked out of doors until ten. My garden and flower bed look nice. Watered them tonight. Put out my foliage plants today. Finished Cornell’s shirts, baked bread and a cake. Sewed my sitting room carpet together. Wess and Edith are coming in for dinner tomorrow. Bess was down this evening.

May 5, 1901

Rained a nice little shower this morning and then cleared up so people could go to church. I did not go. Blanche’s family were here to dinner. Also Edith and Lenore. Blanche and Millie went to church. I went tonight. Preached a good sermon.

May 6, 1901

Rained off and on all day. Just what we needed. Made my carpets today. Set out some plants this morning. If I can’t wash in the morning I will clean my siting room. Was over to Mrs. Morton’s tonight. Mrs. Valentine was there. Had a splendid time. She is such good company.

May 7, 1901

Rained again today. I cleaned my sitting room and bedroom. Am awfully tired.

May 8, 1901

Another hard days work. Cleaned the boys bedroom and got my cook stove moved out. Wish it would clear up so I could wash. Got a letter for Ella today.

May 9, 1901

Tried to clean up today. Washed an awful big washing and then cleaned the dining room. Got the carpet down and all the things back in the big cupboard. The commencement exercises are tonight. Am so tired and stiff. I can’t hardly go tonight.

May 10, 1901

Ironed this morning. Cleaned the cellar and put away all my flower pots and cleaned up around. Am almost done cleaning. Will be so glad. Belle was here to dinner. She went to Ottumwa on the 5:00 o’clock train. School was out today. Been nice all day until this evening. It rained. Had two accidents today. Mrs. Garrett an old lady 84 years old fell and broke her hip and Roy Drew got kicked by a horse pretty badly.

May 11, 1901

Been a pretty day. Got all done with my cleaning just after dinner. Mary Bennett was here awhile this afternoon. I went over to see Roy Drew. He is some better and will get well, I guess. Was over to Mrs. Johnson’s. Mrs. Wildin gives a party for Cleo tonight. Millie has gone. Don’t know what time they will get home. Wess and Edith were in tonight. Got Lenore an express wagon.

May 12, 1901

A very pretty day but chilly. Went to church. Took Margaret and Io. We all went to Blanches for dinner today. Went to church tonight. It is very chilly and afraid it will frost.

May 13, 1901

Had a big frost last night. Did a big washing this morning. Jess and Edith were in. Edith and Blanche and I went downtown. Edith got her a gray dress, a skirt made, and a new hat. Blanche got a black skirt and I got Cleo a light gray skirt. Will is building a new front porch. Morton’s come here from Bloomfield today. Brought George some [Belgium Hair].

May 14, 1901

Fixed our front porch. It looks lots better. Ironed some. Went up to Blanches this evening.

May 15, 1901

Finished ironing. Went up to Bess Manning’s and stayed quite awhile. When I came home Blanche and children were here to stay all day. We made ice cream this afternoon. The ME Social is at Fowlers tonight. Will went to work for George Manning yesterday.

May 16, 1901

Worked in the garden all morning. Belle Schaffer come down at noon and went back on the five o’clock train. Maggie Stedger called today. She goes home tomorrow to Colorado Springs. Went to prayer meeting tonight.

May 17, 1901

Hoed over the rest of my garden this morning. It looks real nice. Made two shirts for Lelorya Cornell today. Went over to Bennett’s this evening. Edith was in this afternoon. Millie went home with her.

May 18, 1901

Spent all the morning straightening up and patched and fixed up everything. Went over to Mrs. Manning’s awhile. This evening, Mrs. Morton and I went up to Mrs. Valentine’s and Mrs. Walker’s to see the Rambo and Dorothy Wilkin. Dellas baby is so big. A nice baby. She looks like the Kettles I think.

May 19, 1901

Been a very pleasant day. Some cooler than it has been. Went to church. Margaret and Io went with me and come home to dinner. Mr. Wilkin was here with Dorothy. He is so proud of her. Went to church tonight. Philip went to sleep.

May 20, 1901

Cleaned my parlor today. Took up the carpet as there was moths in it. Have got all through cleaning now and so glad. Millie took her ninth lesson today. Am awfully tired tonight.

May 21, 1901

Did an awful big wash today. Cut out Edith’s dress this afternoon. It rained some today and is so cold tonight. Am going to bed to get warm.

May 22, 1901

Did a big ironing this morning. Got Edith’s skirt all put together this afternoon. Feel awfully tonight. My leg hurts.

May 23, 1901

Rained hard last night. We set out plants this morning. Finished ironing. Jess and Edith came in and Edith and Millie and I went downtown. Got me a skirt waist and Phil some shirts. After they went home I went downtown with Mrs. Morton and got me a new dress skirt. Had a strawberry short cake for supper. Millie and I went up to Blanches. Her new carpet is real pretty.

May 24, 1901

A drizzling rain this morning and this afternoon and tonight it is cold. Have to have a fire. Hope it will clear off. If it doesn’t it will freeze. Made me a tea jacket and begun Lenore a silk hood.

May 25, 1901

Went to the grave yard this morning. Come back here and cleaned a chicken and baked a cake. Got dinner. After noon I knitted on Lenores hood. Wess and Edith were in town tonight. We are going out there tomorrow…

May 26, 1901

A very pretty day as there was no church. We all went out to Edith’s all day. Had a splendid dinner. Made ice cream in the afternoon. Went to church this evening. Will went with me. Mr. Perkins preached a memorial sermon. It was real good. Got weighed today. I weigh 185 lbs.

May 27, 1901

Monday. Cut Phil out three shirts and made one. Also made me a pair of [shanes]. Went to Blanches this afternoon and helped her cut her new carpet and hemmed half of it and sewed one seam. Will and all the children but Cleo have gone to the theater. There is a show here all week. How I dread it. Today would have been my baby’s birthday. 4 years old. George and Blanche have gone to the theater and left Van here.

May 28, 1901

Got up with a headache this morning . Did not get to bed last night until after 12. The old show lasted so long. So I did not wash. Have cut and made my brown dress skirt today. Millie and I went over and stayed awhile with Myrtle Ellis.

May 29, 1901

Washed today had it all out by 9 o’clock. Cleaned up the yard. Finished Lenore’s hood and patched this afternoon. This evening Millie and I went to the cemetery and decorated the graves. Edith and Jesse are in and went up to. They will be in tomorrow. Georgia Duckworth was married to Doctor Knight.

May 30, 1901

A very nice day. Decoration day. Edith and Jesse were in and stayed all day. Edith and I went out this afternoon. It was nice and the speaking was good. I took Margaret and Io. Will and the boys went to the theater. Millie and I went to prayer meeting. It was a very interesting meeting. Mr. Perkins and Mr. and Mrs. Valentine gave an account of their visit to Burlington to the Association.

May 31, 1901

Ironed this morning and baked bread. This afternoon went to Mr. Perkins to meet Mrs. Fresby, a missionary woman. She is a good talker. Was up to Mrs. Savages this evening. All the children went to the theater.

June 1, 1901

Has been cloudy today. So in hopes it will rain. Worked out of doors all morning. Have all my transplanting done. Now my garden looks nice. Mrs. Valentine and Mrs. Dawson called today. Will and all seven of his children have gone to the theater tonight. It is the last night and I am so glad. Wish it would rain all night. We need it so badly.

June 2, 1901

A nice morning. Went to Church. Staid at home all afternoon. Not feeling well but went to church again tonight. Thundered this afternoon and tried to rain but did not make it. Seth has been in bed almost all day. Is about sick.

June 3, 1901

Has been hot today. Went over to Mary Bennett’s this afternoon. Mrs. Emo came home to day. Blanche has been married five years today.

June 4, 1901

Washed today. A big washing. Thought it would rain so I cleaned out the cistern.^[9] But no rain. This evening Stan and Bess Manning come by and took Millie and I a buggy ride. Went out to Edith’s. It was fine.

June 5, 1901

Rained last night and this morning and so glad. We needed it so badly. Made Phil 2 shirts and a pair of pants today. Tonight Millie and I went up to the ME Church to the Epworth League Convention. The electric lights went out and left us in the dark. Sat until they could run around and get lamps. It was 14 years today since Blanche and Cleo fell in the cistern.

June 6, 1901

Has been a pretty day. Ironed this forenoon. This afternoon I went to the League Convention. It was good. The sermon by U.S. Smith was good and the singing was grand.

June 7, 1901

Been cool all day. Yesterday it snowed in North Dakota. Was up to Bess’s this morning. Sewed this afternoon. Blanche got a lot of new furniture today. Mrs. Drew and Ray were here tonight.

June 8, 1901

Been cold all day. Feels like it will freeze tonight. Cleaned up this morning and baked a cake. Sewed some this afternoon. Feels like freezing. Have got the blues awfully bad. Wish I was dead.

June 9, 1901

Have had the headache and the blues all day. Have not been any place today. We had a good rain this afternoon. Just what we needed. Think we will have more before morning. Began getting milk from Bess today.

June 10, 1901

Rained and hailed early this morning. Been awfully warm. Rained some this afternoon. Will went out to Wess’s to paint today. Went up to Blanches this evening to see how it looks since she cleaned.^[10] Looks real nice.

June 11, 1901

Washed today. It has been awfully hot. Went downtown. Got me a new tea jacket and some lace. Went to [Georgie Kittlic] sent by her for McCalls fashion book. Jess and Edith were in. They took me up to the grave yard. Took Belle’s flowers up.

June 12, 1901

I ironed today. Blanche and Children were down all day. Had quite a thunder shower this afternoon. Myrtle just brought me over some ice cream. It was so good.

June 13, 1901

Has been a hot day. Sewed some. Myrtle tucked her a waist. Bess and babies were here this afternoon. Millie went out to the farm with Margaret this evening. Will came in tonight. Want to prayer meeting. Had quite a crowd tonight.

June 14, 1901

Another awful hot day. Made Cleo’s skirt and began my skirt waist. Got 7 gallons of my cherries just at supper time. Had to put them up. It was ten o’clock when I got done. Am tired.

June 15, 1901

Another hot day. Washed and ironed some today. Baked bread, pies, and cake and put in the afternoon sewing on buttons and patching. We all took a swim in a tub. Edith was in this eve. Took me for a little buggy ride. Blanche went out home with her to stay all night and tomorrow.

June 16, 1901

Has been a nice day. Warm but a good breeze. I went to Sunday School this morning. Also church. Went over to Mary Bennett’s this afternoon. She looks awfully bad. Had new beets for dinner. Went to church tonight.

June 17, 1901

A nice day. Went downtown this morning. Got some insertion^[11] and some toweling^[12]. Came home and cut out my Mother Hubbard^[13] and made it and wore it up to Bess’s tonight. Blanche and children were here for supper.

June 18, 1901

Got up before 5 o’clock and went to washing. Just got all the white clothes on the line when it began to rain. But the sun came out and they got dry. Sewed on my waist in the afternoon.

June 19, 1901

Began ironing at six o’clock. Ironed until half past ten and got sick. Margaret and Io were here to dinner. Bess brought down two dresses for Margaret and wanted them made. Will went to Wess’s to paint, George went to Bonaparte fishing, and Cleo to Blanche’s so the little ones and I are alone tonight.

June 20, 1901

Been awful hot. Have made Margaret Manning’s dress. The girls were in today. George got a big fish last night. Went to prayer meeting. Millie went with me.

June 21, 1901

Had quite a rain early this morning and so much thunder. Sun come out and it has been awful hot. Finished Margaret Manning’s blue dress and cut out the white one. Will came home today. He is done painting. Girls were in tonight. Mrs. Crowell died today. Will be taken to Ottumwa for burial.

June 22, 1901

Was hot this morning. Sewed today. This is Seth’s birthday. 8 years old. It also would of been my fathers. He would have been 69. Had quite a rain this evening and considerable wind. Mrs. Akey died today.

June 23, 1901

Has been a terrible hot day. Went to Sunday School and Church this morning. Edith and Wess come in but did not stay to dinner. Cleo went home with them. Went to the funeral at the Christian church. Oh but it was hot. Went to church tonight.

June 24, 1901

Another hot day. Have sewed all day. Got all of Bess’s work done.

June 25, 1901

Got up at 4 and got to washing early. Had a big one. After dinner Margaret Manning dresses up home and sat there all afternoon. Went to Mary Bennett’s this evening. She is very poorly. It is awful hot tonight. Was 97° today.

June 26, 1901

Terrible hot today. 97°. Ironed all fore noon. After, I rested. Cut out and made me a tea jacket. All but the sleeves. Went down to the store tonight.

June 27, 1901 –The hottest day so far. Bess and babies have been here all day. We made lemon ice and then let it all melt. Went to prayer meeting.

June 28, 1901

Awfully hot today. Finished my skirt waist sleeves. Cut and almost made Mary Garrett’s baby’s dress. May Jamison was here today. Girls were in. I went a riding with Edith.

June 29, 1901

Awfully hot today. Finished my dress and made Philip a shirt waist. Wess and Edith come in tonight. Edith took me a nice buggy ride.

June 30, 1901

The last day of June and a very hot one. Sun up to 103°. Went to Sunday School and Church. The Sunday School had quite a treat. Ed Irish treated us all to ice cream between times. Blanche and family come in after dinner and took Will and I out there. Had ice cream. Was so good. Brought us home after supper. This evening the girls and I went to see Mary Bennett. She is very poorly.

July 1, 1901

The hottest morning I ever saw. Got up at 4 and went to washing. Had a big one. I feel give out all over tonight. Belle Shaffer was down today. Had a good rain this afternoon. Wish it had of kept on all night.

July 2, 1901

A terrible hot day. Temp 101° today. Ironed all morning. Made Seth’s 4^th of July suit today. Edith was in. Cleo went out to work for her. She could not get anyone else. Will has worked for Wash Davis today. Have a lot to do tomorrow.

July 3, 1901

Worked all morning. This afternoon was over to Mrs. Morton’s. She had a reception for Mrs. Haghes of Ohio and Mrs. Steckle of Bloomfield. Had a nice time.

July 4, 1901

(No entry)

July 5, 1901

The glorious fourth is over. Began about 3 o’clock. Got my work done early. Wess and Edith come in early. We went downtown and seen the parades. Was a big crowd. It was so hot. Just after dinner Ed Shafer come and said Jess was sick and Edith and I got ready and went a flying out. At 9:15 she had a ten-pound boy. She was very bad. Staid all night. Come in this morning. Feel tired. Did not sleep any. Stan and Bess Manning come by and wanted me to go out to the farm this evening. Had a nice ride. Am tired.

July 6, 1901

Washed some and finished my weeks ironing. Feel bad. Got the headache. We all went to Blanche’s for supper and had ice cream.

July 7, 1901

Quite a change. It is cool and nice today. Went out to Jessie’s to wash and dress the baby and it was real chilly. This afternoon went over to Bennett’s. Had ice cream. Philip was ten years old today. Tonight the ME Sunday School had children’s day. Took the little ones and went. Word was received today that Mrs. Funk was dead. Will be brought here tomorrow for burial.

July 8, 1901

Been cool and nice today but have felt miserable. Took a general clean up this morning. Mrs. Cornell was here all afternoon. Was over to Mrs. Morton’s this evening.

July 9, 1901

The hottest day so far. Reached 108°. Washed this morning early. Millie went swimming tonight. Philip went home with Wess and Edith. Going to work tomorrow. Got a letter from Frank today. Yesterday I got a box of cuttings, he sent me from the Royal Gorge^[14]. Set them out tonight.

July 10, 1901

Ironed this morning but did not do anything the rest of the day. Went over to Mary Bennett’s. She was awful bad Tuesday night. Has been the hottest day in 10 years. Phil got hurt today. The horse he was riding fell onto him. A wonder he was not killed.

July 11, 1901

Not been, by one degree, as hot today, but I have felt it was . Done nothing either but sit around.

July 12, 1901

Another hot day. Have not done anything. It is too hot to work. Made sherbet tonight. Was so good. Went over to Bennett’s. She is some better. Penders buried their baby today. One of the Sherods twins was buried.

July 13, 1901

Rained a little twice today. Then got as hot as ever. Will and I weeded out the garden. Made ice cream this evening. It was nice. Edith took me a ride tonight. George Morrow went of Douds today. Blanche has not come home yet.

July 14, 1901

Been a very nice day. Went to church and Sunday School. Went to see Mary Bennett this evening.

July 15, 1901

Been hot today. Have not done much. To hot to wash. Margaret is still here. Don’t know what has become of Blanche.

July 16, 1901

Got up at five. Did an awful big washing. Went downtown. Got 40 yards of muslin. Also bought me 3 new rockers. One is for Will’s birthday. Went up to Bennett’s to spend the evening. Vence and Jennie were there. Vence and I went up to the grave yard. We had a nice visit. Had ice cream.

July 17, 1901

Ironed all morning. Blanche come home this morning. Mrs. Morrow^[15] came with her. Mrs. Morton and Bess were here this afternoon. Went up to Blanche’s this evening. Sherods other twin baby was buried today. Looks some like rain. Do wish it would.

July 18, 1901

A terrible hot day. Ironed all morning and had callers besides. Got me some [junket] tablets today. Got my new rockers home today. They are nice. Will liked them. Went a walking this evening with Blanche and Mrs. Morrow.

July 19, 1901

Am tired to death tonight. Been a hard day on me. Today was Will’s 60^th birthday and all the children and grand babies were home. Also Mrs. Morrow and Jessie and her new baby. 18 in all. Will liked his new chair.

July 20, 1901

Another hot day. 106° in the shade. Washed and cleaned all morning. Stitched Mrs. Morton’s dress this afternoon. George had one of his spells last night. Fell and skinned his face all up. Has stayed at home all day.

July 21, 1901

The hottest day. 110° in the shade. It is awful. Went to Sunday School and Church. Been all afternoon and night so far trying to keep cool. Wrote to Frank. It is too hot to go to bed.

July 22, 1901

Been up to 114° today. What shall we do. Mrs. Morton and Mrs. Eno were here quite awhile today. Jess was in with her little baby. It is sick. Am afraid she will loose it if it stays so hot.

July 23, 1901

Not quite so hot today but it is just awful. Edith come for me at noon to go to see Dick. He is some better but they will have a hard pull to get him through. Went downtown and got an ice cream soda.

July 24, 1901

Got up feeling so bad. Just as we were done with our work Blanche and family come to spend the day. Had Van’s picture taken. Cleo come home today. Will went out to Edith’s and Jesse’s. Baby is lots better. Had a good rain. Hope it will keep on. Is warm again tonight.

July 25, 1901

Another hot day after our rain. But we are getting used to it. Washed today. Laid around all afternoon and went to prayer meeting tonight. It will be the last for 5 weeks. Mr. Perkins^[16] goes for a vacation.

July 26, 1901

Cooler today. Ironed this morning. Patched after dinner. Edith and Jesse were here in the evening. Edith brought me a new calico dress and Jess brought me a dress and tea jacket. Mrs. Cochrel was here today. Was up to Bennett’s tonight.

July 27, 1901

Not felt well today. Have not done much of anything.

July 28, 1901

A pleasant day. Went to church and Sunday School. The last preaching until Mr. Perkins comes back. Io was here all day. I went home with her this evening. It has tried hard all day to rain. It thundered tonight. Wish it would rain hard.

July 29, 1901

Was nice this morning but is terrible hot tonight. Cut and made Myrtle Ellis a tea jacket. Blanche and children were down and we went and had Margaret’s picture taken. They are going to send it in for that contest. They had Vans taken the 24^th. Edith and Jesse were in. Millie went home with them. They are going to have [thrashers] tomorrow. I feel miserable tonight.

July 30, 1901

Washed this morning first. As it got day, it rained. Was so glad for the rain. It seems more like living since it has got cooler. Have had 13 callers today. Began on Mrs. Morton’s skirt waist. Have some sewing to be done. Myrtle and I have been working together today. Got a letter from Frank today.

Aug 1, 1901

Some warmer today but a nice day to work. Finished Mrs. Morton’s waist and tea jacket. Also made new sleeves for a white waist. Am awful tired tonight. Wrote a letter to Frank to Salt Lake City. Wish I could see the sights he has.

Aug 2, 1901

Has been up to a 100° today. Edith was in this morning and I went downtown with her. Finished Wess’s shirt. Myrtle Ellis went to Moravia^[17] today. Alice was down this afternoon. Edith was in again this evening and we drove downtown. She brought me in some ice cream.

Aug 3, 1901

Been cloudy all day and sprinkled a little. Ironed some this morning. Went downtown this afternoon. Got Millie a blue [coches] dress and some red stockings. Morton’s went away today. It will be so lonesome now. Edith and I went over to Bennett’s this evening.

Aug 4, 1901

Went to Sunday School this morning. Went over to Bennett’s this afternoon. Blanche and family were here when we come back, so after supper we all went to see the pickle factory.

Aug 5, 1901, 1901

A nice day to work. Made a black satin shirt for Wess. Cut out a dress for Millie. Took the headache this morning and has got worse all day. Tonight it is bursting.

Aug 6, 1901

We did a big wash this morning. This afternoon went to the funeral of Leeone Monnett. Afterward went down to Mrs. Smiths. After supper Mildred and I went to Mrs. Leippincott’s and Bess Manning’s. Mr. Joshua Sloan died today.

Aug 7, 1901

Ironed this morning. Blanche and family come and staid all day. Jen Garrett washed Blanche’s and my hair. Mildred and I went down to Jameson’s this evening.

Aug 8, 1901

Felt miserable this morning. Did not go to the funeral. It was a very large one. Edith come in about 9 o’clock and wanted me to go home with her. So I did. Did not get in until late.

Aug 9, 1901

Been cloudy all day. Wish it would rain. Finished Millie’s dress. Cut and almost made my tea jacket. Went to Leaura Davis’ and Mary Bennett’s this evening.

Aug 10, 1901

Ironed some today and finished my tea jacket. Jesse and Edith were in this morning. Wess and Edith were in this afternoon.

Aug 11, 1901

Went to Sunday School this morning. Was up to Alice Savage’s this afternoon. Will and I went to the Christian church tonight. It is real chilly tonight.

Aug 12, 1901

Been warm again today. Just got my work done and Win Bennett come for me. Mary was worse. Been bad all day. I come home just at dark. Am tired.

Aug 13, 1901

Washed this morning. Mary Drew and Jennie Parker were here for dinner. Just as we got dinner over, Win come for me to go over. Mary was bad. Staid until after dark. Got a good letter from Myrtle Ellis today. Had our first melon today.

Aug 14, 1901

Ironed today. Cut out and sewed on Cleo’s red dress. Went over to Bennett’s awhile. She is worse. Wess and Edith were in. Blanche was down this afternoon. It is thundering and is very cloudy. Do hope it will rain.

Aug 15, 1901

Sewed on Cleo’s dress this morning. Went to Bennett’s this afternoon. Mary was some better. Mr. Starr died just before 6 o’clock tonight. Will and I went to hear Mr. Bateman lecture on “Chicken come Home to Roost” at the Christian church tonight. It was just splendid…

August 16, 1901

Canned 4½ gallon cans of crab apples and 4 quarts of butter and one gallon of jelly. Baked bread and served some fresh. At dark Win came for me to go and stay all night . Mary done pretty well the after part of the night. Mr. Manning died at five this morning. Will not be buried until Monday.

Aug 17, 1901

Come home about ten and stayed until after dinner and went back and just got home a while ago. Am awful tired. Mr. Starr was buried today a very large funeral. 55 soldiers and 31 teams. Wrote to Mrs. Morton today. We have had a good shower. Do hope it will rain all night.

Aug 18, 1901

Worked hard all morning though it was Sunday. Been away so much that I did not get to go to Sunday School. Blanches family were here to dinner. We went to Bennett’s after dinner. Just got here before the rain. Had a nice shower. Had watermelon for supper.

Aug 19, 1901

Washed this morning and baked bread and made a pair of drawers this afternoon. Edith come in, and she, and Mildred, and I went to Mr. Manning’s funeral. It was the largest funeral I ever was at. The floral display was elegant. The coffin was a mass of roses. After we left there, we went to see Mrs. Dodson. Don’t think she will live over the night. I got a letter from Mrs. Morton today. She is having a good time. Blanche and children are here tonight. George is gone and she doesn’t want to stay alone. This is the first night of a week’s theater.

Aug 20, 1901

Sewed on Myrtles waist this morning. Went over to try it on. Win brought me home in the buggy. Mary is some better. 

Aug 21, 1901

Sat up all night at Mrs. Dodson’s. She is very low. Have sewed today and made Millie and Lenore each a paper hat. Am tired and sleepy.

Aug 22, 1901

Sewed on Myrtles waist this morning. Blanche and children have been here all day. This afternoon Blanche and I baked 5 cakes. Jim and Leaura Kessling come about 2 o’clock and then Will and family come from the fair. Had them all for supper. Edith and Lenore, E_ and Millie went to the theater tonight. I am so tired tonight.

Aug 23, 1901

Everything was up side down this morning but we got straightened up. The children all went to the fair. I finished Myrtle’s waist. Went and staid with Mary Bennett this afternoon. Edith come in and went to the theater. She left Lenore. She waked up and more then howled.

Aug 24, 1901

What a day this has been. We got up late and had so much to do. Work had been slack all week so we took a general clean up. Van was sick all day. I went downtown in the afternoon. George come home and Blanche went home. Edith and Io were in this evening.

Aug 25, 1901

Felt so bad this morning but thought I’d go anyhow. So went to Sunday School and Church and after dinner went to see Mrs. Dodson and Mary Bennett. Tom and Nettie were here from Milton. I am sick all over tonight.

Aug 26, 1901

Been sewing all day. Fixing up things and have made Seth two waists. Annie Jamison was here a year ago tonight. I sat up with her at John’s. Their baby died the next morning. How time does fly. Will is not well. Been home all day. Mrs. Annie Johnson went insane Sunday and was taken to the asylum today.

Aug 27, 1901

We did an awful big washing today. Baked bread and I had some elderberry pies. Sewed this afternoon. Am tired tonight.

Aug 28, 1901

We did an awful big ironing this morning. Sewed this afternoon. Word come at noon that Belle Drew Bonney was dead. Poor girl. It makes me sick to think of it. A year tonight since Vera Shaffer died. Was over to Bennett’s tonight. She is awful poorly. I hate to go away. Jim and Wallace Kessling were here for supper. Seth went home with them.

Aug 29, 1901

Will write early this morning as I sat up until two o’clock last night at Mrs. Dodson’s. I was too tired but could not refuse. They got here with Belle at noon. I got dinner for all the Ottumwa folks. Belle did not look like herself. There was a big funeral. Had beautiful flowers. Mr. Jeffers preached from “And her Sun went down while it was yet day”. Jeremiah 15-9.

Aug 30, 1901

Will write this in the morning. Services started over here at 1:30. Will brought us to Cantril and Wallace and Seth met us there. Got here about 5. It was terrible dusty. I had the headache so bad.

Aug 31, 1901

Got up this morning with the headache. Have visited all day and eat until I am in misery. Millie and Seth are having a gay time.

Sept 1, 1901

It seamed odd today to hear no bells. Not like Sunday. Leaura got a nice dinner but company did not come until afternoon and there were lots of them come. We had melons and a jolly time. Am going to bed early. It is so still and lonely. No noise to be heard.

Sept 2, 1901

The children and I went up to Dave Abernathy’s today, all day. Had a splendid time.

Sept 3, 1901

Today Leaura, the children and I went up to Will’s for dinner and in the afternoon we all went to Charlie’s. We had a fine time. Got back about five and fixed for the men so we could go tomorrow.

Sept 4, 1901

Today Leaura and the children and I went to Azen to see [Freliet]. We had a splendid time. Am awful tired riding so much. [Quite] away with me. We come home and got supper and I churned while Leaura done other work.

Sept 5, 1901, 1901

Another visit today. J. and Leaura and I went over into Iona, which is about 4 miles from Milton, and visited their daughter, Gertie Short. Had a splendid time. Did not get home until after dark.

Sept 6, 1901

Today Leaura, the children and I went over to Ed Abernathy’s. Lulu was there. We had a fine time. That will surely be our last visit. Tomorrow we go home. Have had such a good time.

Sept 7, 1901

Am at home tonight. We started about 8 this morning and got here at 10½. Found them all upside down. Cleo sick. Van with an abscess on his neck and Margaret was sick all night. George had another fit on the 4^th night. Mrs. Morton is better. Everything is all right and is just as dry as ever. Mrs. Dodson died since I went away. We had a splendid good time but am glad to get home.

Sept 8, 1901

Sunday but I did not get to go to Sunday School. I had so much to do. Got all cleaned up and went to see Mary Bennett. She is better than when I went away. Wess and Edith was here for dinner. Harry Whiler baby died today. It has been smoky all day. Has tried to rain so hard.

Sept 9, 1901

Have put in another hard day. Blanche and children come about 9 o’clock and about ten, Monnie Fisher and baby and her aunt and two children come. So they all stayed here and I had 15 for dinner. They left about half past three. Then it was hurry to get Blanche ready for the 5 o’clock train. She went to Douds. Mrs. Morton is real poorly. She fell to the floor today. Made Phil a shirt tonight.

Sept 10, 1901

Washed this morning. Am awful tired. The wash did not get done until noon. Baked bread and worked around here until 4. Went over to see Mrs. Morton. She is better. Today is Blanches birthday. She is 24. And it is two years since my darling baby died. I want to go to the cemetery tomorrow and take some flowers.

Sept 11, 1901

We have had a glorious rain. It began about 12 last night and has rained a good gentle rain ever since. Ironed some but was too hard running through the rain.

Sept 12, 1901

Was bright today. I finished ironing. Went over to Bennett’s and to prayer meeting tonight. The first for some time. Was a good meeting.

Sept 13, 1901

Washed a big washing this morning. Baked bread and canned 3½ gallons of large beets. Was over at Mrs. Morton’s. Will got ½ bushel of peaches this evening and I put them up.

Sept 14, 1901

Had another rain last night. Ironed this morning again. Baked and made jelly. I have felt miserable all day. One of the great events of the century happened today. President William McKinley died at 2:15 this morning. He was shot on the 6^th by a [  ] socialist.

Sept 15, 1901

Sunday morning bright and nice. Went to Sunday School and Church. Mr. Perkins preached his first sermon on his sixth year. It was a good one to. Edith come in after dinner and Will and I went out and staid until after supper. It is raining by spells tonight.

Sept 16, 1901

It has rained off and on all day. Put up a peck of cling peaches. Made some jelly. Also made two gallons of kraut. Potted my “mums” today. Want to get up all my plants as soon as I can.

Sept 17, 1901

Have put in a busy day. Canned a ½ bushel of peaches. Made a peck into butter. Been taking up and repotting plants. It is so cold tonight. Afraid it will frost. Edith was in and got her new jacket. I cut her a dress pattern. Hope she will get it made all right.

Sept 18, 1901

Got up early this morning. George went to work. We cleaned up the garden this morning and I repotted some plants. Blanche come home today. She brought a lot of fruit. I went up and helped her. Peeled and canned 20 quarts of apples. Got some of her plumbs up. Come home and Will had supper ready. This evening I peeled a peck of pears. It is awful cold tonight.

Sept 19, 1901

Rained almost all day. First a slow drizzle. Sent the children’s dinner to school and I went up to help Blanche put up her fruit. Done a big days works. Went to prayer meeting tonight

Sept 20, 1901

Today finished up my apple butter and was going to do so much and Edith come with her jacket and wanted me to work on it. Did not get it done. We went calling this afternoon and tonight. Millie and I went over to Bennett’s. Dorothy Algier died this morning.

Sept 21, 1901

We washed and ironed today. Made pickled crabs and canned some. Made an apron for Margaret Manning. Edith was in tonight. Today is Brough’s birthday. 38 years old. Doctor Strickling is not expected to live until morning.

Sept 22, 1901

Been a very pretty day. Went to Sunday school and church. After dinner Millie and I went up to the cemetery. Stopped at Bennett’s. Mary is not as well today. Went to church tonight. Such a few there. Don’t see why more don’t come.

Sept 23, 1901

Has been real warm again today. About nine o’clock, I began and did part of Mrs. Morton’s washing. Cut out three aprons for Margaret Manning and made one. Doctor Strickling died last night. Mr. and Mrs. Morton went to Bloomfield today. Stella Streckel is to be married next Wednesday. Blanche sent for me at noon. She had the [cholera merbis]. Cleaned up and got supper for them. Did not get home until 8 o’clock and so tired.

Sept 24, 1901

Been a pretty day. Washed again. Baked bread and made 2 aprons. The children were here for dinner. Doctor Strickling was buried today. The first lecture of the Alumna course is tonight. Was over to Bennett’s tonight. She is some better.

Sept 25, 1901 –Have ironed all day. Am awful tired. Went to the social. Mrs. Valentine come by for me. We took in $450. People were shocked to this evening to hear that Frank Smith had shot himself on Monday. Was found out in a field. He was buried at midnight. George had a fit last night. A year tonight since Ma took her leap^[18].

Sept 26, 1901

Had company today. Edith and Jesse and Mrs. Harry Shaffer of Keokuk. Went to prayer meeting. Had quite a [cract] for us.

Sept 27, 1901

Baked bread and put up grapes this morning. This afternoon the little girls and I went over to Bennett’s. May Trimible and Mrs. Booth were there. The remains of Mrs. Johnson were brought home today. Blanche went to Douds yesterday. Morton’s come home from Bloomfield today. They had been at Stella’s wedding.

Sept 28, 1901

Not felt very good today. Had the headache all night. Not done much. Mrs. Johnson was buried today. May Jamison was here this evening and staid while he went to lodge.

Sept 29, 1901

Another change. It is quite cool today. Went to Sunday School and Church. Took the little girls. After dinner Edith and her sister-in-law come in and we went to the cemetery and then a buggy riding. They come in tonight and went to church with me.

Sept 30, 1901

Still chilly this morning. Blanche come home at noon. Van is poorly and so cross. Got ½ bushel of peaches from Bon. Canned six quarts and made the rest into butter. Went over to Bennett’s. Mary is better.

Oct 1, 1901

The first of Oct. has been cloudy and has tried several times to rain. Finished Edith’s jacket and she got it this evening. Blanche was here with Van. Took him to the Doctor and got medicine. Cut and made me a [culies] wrapper today like the one Jess gave me. Was over to the Morton’s tonight.

Oct 2, 1901

Bright and pretty but chilly. Potted my foliage plants. Blanche come this afternoon. We went downtown. She got the girls a white jacket apiece. I got me a gray cloth dress.

Oct 3, 1901

Been cold today. Washed this morning and ironed and baked bread this afternoon. Went to prayer meeting. Had quite a crowd. Mr. Austen give us a talk.

Oct 4, 1901

Had a hard frost last night. Got some of my plants nipped. Went over to Bennett’s and picked 2 bushels of green tomatoes. Put up 13 quarts of apples. I’ve been married 25 years today. Our Sunday School had a social tonight. Had a nice time.

Oct 5, 1901

Had so much to do. The kids staid all night and Cleo did not come home. Mildred went to a party at Amy Watkins. She drew the prize on the guessing contest.

Oct 6, 1901

A beautiful day. Went to Sunday School and Church. After dinner Will took Millie and I a buggy ride. Went almost to Birmingham^[19]. Was awful nice. Stopped at Edith’s and brought Blanche’s little girls in. Went to church tonight.

Oct 7, 1901

Went to work this morning and green tomatoes took me all day. Edith was in. Belle Lindel come down and they went out. Was going to Bennett’s. Got as far as Starr’s and the rain caught us and we had to come back.

Oct 8, 1901

Was going to wash, but it was raining when I got up, so I put it off. Made Millie a dress skirt. It looks real nice. Was over to Morton’s. The Steckle girls come tonight.

Oct 9, 1901

Cloudy and damp. Sun tried to come out. Washed some but did not hang out any. Went over to Bennett’s this afternoon. Mary is some better. Got a present of a shoe string bag today. Ella sent it from Denver. Is very nice. Bess brought a dress to make for Margaret. Was up for the milk tonight.

Oct 10, 1901

Washed today and then did part of the ironing and cut out part of Margaret Manning’s dress. Did not go to prayer meeting tonight. Had all I needed at home. Will it ever end.

Oct 11, 1901 –Ironed all forenoon. Sewed on Margaret’s dress. Edith and Mildred Steckle were over. Was up to Bess’s tonight.

Oct 12, 1901

All the children went nuting and I had all the work to do. So I did not get my dress done. Baked cakes and bread and canned 7 quarts of grapes. Was over to Mr. B. Got some clover leaf table clothing to make a cushion. One for Edith Steckle. Mildred has gone to stay all night with Blanche. Cleo did not come home.

Oct 13, 1901

Rained this morning but we went to Sunday School and Church. Rained quite hard just as it was out. Blanche and children were here to dinner. Blanche and I went over to Bennett’s this afternoon. Went to church tonight. It has turned so cold.

Oct 14, 1901

A very pretty day. Finished Margaret Manning’s dress. Cut out two shirts/skirts for Corness and almost made one. Been over to Morton’s three times making up for lost time.

Oct 15, 1901

Has been an ideal fall day. Made the Corness’s shirts, potted some plants, and looked over my millenary supplies. Don’t feel very well. Mrs. Manning was over. It is her birthday. She is 66.

Oct 16, 1901

Done an awful big washing today. Blanche and Edith and I went downtown this afternoon. I got Mildred a blue serge dress. Got Cleo a red tam cup. Took my hat to be trimmed over. Am so tired.

Oct 17, 1901

Ironed a big ironing this morning. After dinner I made Phil a pair of pants and then went over to Bennett’s. Went to prayer meeting tonight.

Oct 18, 1901

Was going to do so much today and Blanche and children come so we made Io a jacket. Did not get to go to the reading class. Myrtle Bennett come and said we would go to Milton tomorrow so I had to do some work. Got my new hat. It is real nice.

Oct 19, 1901

Got up real early. Myrtle and I started at 25 of seven. We got there at 9:30. Had a very nice time. I enjoyed the ride very much. Milton is a very nice place so far as I could see in the time I was there. Mrs. Walls was brought here today and buried.

Oct 20, 1901

A beautiful day. Went to Sunday School and Church. Staid at home the rest of the day.

Oct 21, 1901

Not done much today. Cleaned up and sewed a little. It is such beautiful weather.

Oct 22, 1901

Washed today and cut out a skirt for Matte Roresh. Went over to Bennett’s this afternoon. Went downtown with Myrtle to get her a new jacket. Was up to Bess’s and over to Morton’s tonight.

Oct 23, 1901

Ironed this morning. Uncle Tom’s cabin is to be played tonight. Had a parade at noon. The little girls come down as I kept them until night to hear the band. All the boys went to the show.

Oct 24, 1901

Cut out Cleo’s jacket and got it all ready to try on but she did not come home. In the afternoon Mrs. Varner and I went to the cemetery and come back by Bennett’s. Went to prayer meeting this evening.

Oct 25, 1901

Sewed this morning and this afternoon. Went up to Blanche’s tonight. I went to the literature class. I enjoyed it very much.

Oct 26, 1901

Cleaned up this morning and afternoon. Made Millie’s jacket and patched. Went down tonight and got Millie a hat. Paid $1.50 for it. Edith and Wess were in.

Oct 27, 1901

A beautiful day. Went to Sunday School and Church this afternoon. Will took Millie and I a buggy ride. Went up the road to the old Heren place where Edith and Wess are going to move tomorrow and then up to Jesse’s and home. Went to church tonight.

Oct 28, 1901

Done a big days work. Cleaned the two bedrooms. Washed a straw tick and two blankets. Filled two straw beds. Cleaned the closet and packed things away. Am tired tonight.

Oct 29, 1901

Cleaned  my pictures and took things out of the siting room. Went to the social tonight at Mr. Perkins’. Was not many there but had a nice time.

Oct 30, 1901

Cleaned the siting room today. Been cussed and jawed for everything I done. Washed my bed spreads and sheets. Am so tired I don’t know what to do.

Oct 31, 1901

Rained last night and this morning. Cleaned mt parlor today. All done but the kitchen. Halloween tonight. The youngsters are having a gay time. Went to prayer meeting tonight.

Nov 1, 1901

Has been a beautiful day. Washed this morning. Went over to Bennett’s. Mary has been bad again. Baked my bread after I come home. Went to the literary class. Got a book. Blanche and the children are here for all night. Millie and Philip went out to Edith’s.

Nov 2, 1901

Blanche and children staid all day. Ironed all morning. Looked so stormy that in the afternoon we took up all the plants and bulbs and covered up everything. Went downtown. Took my ring down to be stretched.

Nov 3, 1901

Sure enough did storm. Began to rain in the night and turned to snow and is cold today. Went to Sunday School and Church and over to Bennett’s and church tonight.

Nov 4, 1901

Cold this morning. Was up to Manning’s and then over to Parker’s to get her to knit me some mittens. Went downtown and got 6 under vests. Went up to Blanches in the afternoon. Today is Edith’s 22^nd birthday.

Nov 5, 1901

Snowed last night a little. Washed this morning. Washed my carpet and cleaned the cellar. Election today. Everybody drunk. I wished there never would be another.

Nov 6, 1901 –Ironed all morning. Baked bread. Took the dishes out of the cupboard and got things ready to go to work tomorrow.

Nov 7, 1901

Got my carpet down and my stove blacked and up. Got new oil cloth for bath room. Will and George helped almost all day. George had one of his fits last night. I went to prayer meeting. I was so tired.

Nov 8, 1901

Put my dishes all in the cupboard and straightened up. Went over to Mrs. Morton’s awhile in the afternoon. Went to the reading class tonight.

Nov 9, 1901

Baked  bread and washed the windows and done the usual Saturday work. Am all done with my cleaning work. Went downtown and got my gray dress. Was over to Bennett’s. Wess and Edith and Edith and Jesse were in tonight. Millie went home with Jess. We are all going out to Edith’s tomorrow. Mr. Perkins won’t be here to preach. I do hope he won’t leave us.

Nov 10, 1901

We all went out to Edith’s today. Ed and Jess and Bob and May Jamison were there.

Nov 11, 1901

Nice and warm today but windy and cloudy. Did rain a little. Cut and made Bess Manning two flannel skirts today and cut out Margaret’s coat. Want to make it tomorrow.

Nov 12, 1901

Began on Margaret Manning’s coat. Worked all day but did not get it done. My head and back both ache tonight.

Nov 13, 1901

Has been a busy hard day. Jess and baby and Edith and baby have been here all day. Cut and fit Edith’s red waist and have part of it to make. Jess got her a new dress. Blanche was here this afternoon. Van is not feeling well. John Abernathy was married today.

Nov 14, 1901

Washed this morning and sewed on Margaret Manning’s coat. The rest of the day went over to Bennett’s early and staid until prayer meeting time. Then went there.

Nov 15, 1901

Went downtown and got Millie a calico dress and cut and almost made it. Went to reading class this evening.

Nov 16, 1901

Millie did the ironing this morning while I finished her dress. Took a general clean up. Made Seth a pair of pants and went downtown. Got Lenore a china plate for her birthday. She is two today. They were in tonight and Jess too.

Nov 17, 1901

Cold last night. The river is frozen over so the boys can skate today. Went to church and Sunday School today. Mary Johnson was buried today. She died in Ft. Madison on the 14th. Blanche and Margaret and I went to the grave yard and stopped at Bennett’s. Tom and Nettie Grant and Jennie were down from Milton. Went to church. Have had the headache so bad all day.

Nov 18, 1901

Monday Blanche was down all day. I cut and partly make Lenore’s coat.

Nov 19, 1901

A beautiful day. Washed this morning. Sewed this afternoon. Edith and Jesse were in. Was over to Mrs. Morton’s this evening. Am awful tired tonight. Van is 2 years old today.

Nov 20, 1901

Have ironed all day. Craig Manning and Edna Thearn are to be married this evening.

Nov 21, 1901

Finished Lenore’s coat this morning. Worked some in the yard and alley. Went over to Bennett’s and from there to prayer meeting.

Nov 22, 1901

Began raining this morning and has rained lightly all day. Is turning cold tonight. Frank Beer died this morning. Went to literary class tonight. Such a few there. There is a mask ball tonight.

Nov 23, 1901

Took a general clean up this morning. Was just in the mist of it when Geo come and said Io had fell and cut her forehead. I went over there and then we took her to the Doctor to have it dressed. Edith was in this afternoon. Beer was buried today. Was a very large funeral.

2 pages missing

Nov 24, 1901

Went to Sunday School and Church. Wrote a letter to Frank and Ella this afternoon. Millie, Seth, and I went to church tonight.

Nov 25, 1901

A beautiful day. Did a big washing. Went downtown and got me a blue waist and the girls some drawers. Went to Bennett’s and called to see how Mrs. Leippincott was. Mrs. Strecter is very low. Her babe is dead.

Nov 26, 1901

Cut out my dress skirt today. Will have a yard left. The sick folks are better.

Nov 27, 1901

Today we dressed 8 turkeys for the store and one for home. Blanche went out to Rousher’s. Left Io here.

Nov 28, 1901

I believe this is the nicest Thanksgiving I ever did see. George Morrow was here for dinner. Had a nice dinner. In the afternoon, Io and I went to Bennett’s. Io is 4 years old today.

Nov 29, 1901

The girls ironed. I cut out my jacket. Jessie come in and was here for dinner. Went to the reading class. The sick are better.

Nov 30, 1901

People were shocked this morning by hearing Major Brown had dropped dead at 2 this morning. Been sewing all day.

Dec 1, 1901

Went to Sunday School and Church. Was at home all afternoon. Blanche come home. Went to church.

Dec 2, 1901

Got up early. Had all our work done and I sewed ½ hour by lamp light. Worked all day on my dress. Blanche was down. Fit her a waist and cut one for Mrs. Manning.

Dec 3, 1901, 1901

Washed today. Sewed this afternoon. Major Brown was buried at ten today. This afternoon D.W. Fergison was brought here and buried. Was Over at Bennett’s tonight until ten. She was very bad tonight.

Dec 4, 1901

Ironed this morning. Fit Mrs. Brown’s waist this afternoon and sewed. Cut out pants tonight for the boys. Today is George’s birthday. He is 20 years old.

Dec 5, 1901

The first thing we heard this morning was that Mrs. Leippincott died at 11 o’clock last night. It is too bad. Mrs. Harlson died this morning. It seems like there are nothing but deaths. Went to prayer meeting. Had our first snow today.

Dec 6, 1901

Sewed all day on Mrs. Browns tea jacket. Mrs. Leippincott was buried today. Went to literary.

Dec 7, 1901

Worked hard all fore noon. Sewed in the afternoon. Mrs. Harlson was buried today.

Dec 8, 1901 

Went to Sunday School and Church. Blanche and family were here for dinner. Blanche and I went over to Bennett’s. Was no church but we went to practice for our concert. Io spoke her piece.

Dec 9, 1901

Edith come in this morning. We went downtown to get some Xmas things. Finished my dress. Cut out Millie’s. Got the skirt all done but the binding.

Dec 10, 1901

Got up with a terrible headache. Worked on Millie’s dress. Edith and Joe Shaffer were here for dinner. Win Bennett come for me to go over there. Mary is worse.

Dec 11, 1901

Sewed this morning. Had company for dinner. They came just at noon. Mrs. Rich Morrow and Orville. She went to the country and the boy went home. Made each of the boys a pair of pants.

Dec 12, 1901

Has rained all day and so glad. Worked all day. Went to prayer meeting tonight. Such a bad night. So few there. Mrs. Morton is sick. Do hope she won’t get bad. Millie is at Manning’s all night. Made a dress for Lenore. She is so cute.

Dec 13, 1901

Everything is a grate of ice this morning. Has snowed some and has turned so cold. Down to zero. Had to move my plants into the siting room. Mr. Perkins called today. I went over to Bennett’s. She is getting along a little easier. Nina Atins is here. My but it is cold tonight. Did not go to the reading class.

Dec 14, 1901

Washed some and took a general clean up this fore noon. Sewed this afternoon and evening. It was so bad last night. Eleven below. Mrs. Morton lost some of her flowers.

Dec 15, 1901

Not quite so cold today and the sun is bright. Went to Sunday School and Church. Did not go tonight. Have such a terrible headache and one of my old cramps in my stomach.

Dec 16, 1901

Snowed some last night. Had a fire last night. A house on the hill. Josh Johnson lives in it. It was put out. I washed this morning. Begun at ten o’clock and did two washings. Am so tired tonight.

Dec 17, 1901

Ironed this morning. Brought in frozen clothes and dried them. Have cold and am so tired.

Dec 18, 1901

Finished ironing this forenoon. Went downtown this afternoon. Began Seth’s clothes.

Dec 19, 1901

Finished Seth’s suit today. Went over to Bennett’s tonight. The Guild held their sale today and tonight. I did not go.

Dec 20, 1901

Made two shirts today. Went to reading class tonight. Have a terrible cold. Last night was the coldest so far. 14 below.

Dec 21, 1901

Took a general clean up this morning. Sewed all afternoon and evening.

Dec 22, 1901

Went to Sunday School and Church. Mr. Perkins gave each of his class a booklet. Had our Sunday School concert tonight. Had a full house and they all done well. Margaret and Io both spoke and done fine. Has been warming and thawed a good deal.

Recipe for Canned Grapes

Pick of the grapes whole and put in jar.

Take one teaspoon full of salicylic acid and one tea cup of sugar to one quart of boiling water.

Pour over fruit and seal.

Larry Rettinger

210 Poco Vista, Kerrville, TX 78028

Phone: 830-895-3129       email ->    larryrett@windstream.net    

www addr -> www.larrett.com

Last Modified: December 05, 2010 11:07:51 AM