Transcriber, L J Rettinger Jr, comments in parentheses. Illegible words or phrases are indicated by ????
During 1917 Hattie is living in a house in Keosauqua with son George F Sommerville who is single and who works various jobs as a paper hanger, ice cutter, painter, etc. Hattie’s husband had died in 1912 after a long illness. Two grandchildren are born during 1917, Virginia Pickett on Aug 15 and Josephine Sommerville on Nov 30.
Children and Grandchildren of Hattie and William Sommerville during 1917 were:
Blanche married to George Morrow and living in Oskaloosa, IA.
Margaret
Io
Van
Cyrene
Edith married John Shaffer and living in Keokuk, IA.
Lenora
Florena
Ruth
George Sommerville living in Keosauqua, IA.
Ruth Sommerville died young
Cleo married to Walter Dorothy and living in Birmingham, IA.
Mildred married to Clyde Pickett and living in Ottumwa, IA.
Virginia
Philip Sommerville married Weltha late in 1917.
Seth Sommerville married Rose
Betty
Josephine
Crete Sommerville died young
Jan 1, 1917
Another year is here. A lovely day has thawed so much. Lenore and I went down town. I got me a new pair of shoes. Made some calls. Lenore went home this evening.
Jan 2
Was a bright morning but clouded up for rest of day. I washed, had to dry my clothes in the house. Went to see “Lazy Bee” at the Opera House. Sure was good.
Jan 3
Bright morning but clouded up again. Ironed. Ruth and Florene come on evening train. They have been to Cedar Rapids and Ottumwa and are on their way home.
Jan 4
A miserable day. Cloudy and dark and drizzly. We have been at home all day. George and Florene have nearly taken the house down.
Jan 5
Lovely bright day. We made several calls and went to town. I got me a new dress. We sure have enjoyed the kids visit.
Jan 6
A nice day. The girls went home this morning. Miss them. Took me the rest of the day to get my house cleaned up. George is not well.
Jan 7
Beautiful day but cold. Did not thaw any. Went to S. School and Church. Mrs. Day and I called on the sick. George has tonsillitis.
Jan 8
A lovely day. George is better. Wrote letters all morning. Went to the annual Church meeting tonight. A big crowd had a nice time.
Jan 9
Cooler today. Am not feeling very well. George went down town today.
Jan 10
A very blustery day. Has tried to snow all day. I washed and dried my clothes in the house. Went to the church to a lecture by Mr. Perkins.
Jan 11
Is very cold today. I ironed and cut out and almost made me a dress. Went to prayer meeting.
Jan 12
A real blustery day. Trying to snow. Went up to see Mrs. E. Manning this afternoon. Wrote two long letters tonight.
Jan 13
Bright and cold. Worked the buttonholer on my dress and did some patching. Went up to Jennie’s tonight.
Jan 14
Cold. Went to S. School and church both times. Mrs. Perkins was out. She has been feeling badly for a few days.
Jan 15
Have not done very much today. Sewed a few carpet rags. Am crocheting a rug of them.
Jan 16
Cold. I washed this morning. Went up to see Mrs. Perkins. She is better. Went up to Jennie’s tonight.
Jan 17
Ironed this morning. Sewed some more rags. Went to hear Mr. P. lecture tonight.
Jan 18
Been cloudy all day. Afraid it will snow. Been sewing & reading. Went to prayer meeting. Band have a concert tonight.
Jan 19
A nice day. I cleaned up all of my house this morning. Went to Crest this afternoon. Went to the social at the church tonight. A good crowd. Had a nice time.
Jan 20
Nice winter day. I attended court all day. Tonight went to the Opera House to the second of the Lecture course. Clouding up.
Jan 21
Had quite a snow last night. Turned to rain and was so warm. The streets running with water. Went to S. School & church. Also went to Bugler to church. The wind is blowing and is cold tonight.
Jan 22
Clear and cold. Went down town this morning. Had company all afternoon and evening.
Jan 23
Lovely day but cold. Went to town. Cleaned my house up good. Expected Blanche but she did not come.
Jan 24
A very nice day but cold. I washed this morning . Blanche come this evening. She is real poorly. Went to the lecture tonight.
Jan 25
Very nice weather for time of year. We were home all day and evening.
Jan 26
Nice day. I ironed this morning. Sewed this afternoon.
Jan 27
Nice again. I baked cake & pies and cleaned up this morning. Went to Hal Brown McDonald funeral. Afternoon. B. (Blanche) went to Drs.
Jan 28
A lovely day like spring. I went to S. School & church. Had company in afternoon. Also went to see Bon.
Jan 29
Very nice day. Thawed so it is pretty muddy. Geo. went to Oskaloosa today. Blanche & I went to the Dr. She is taking treatments.
Jan 30
A very nice day. Bright and crispy. We have crocheted all day. Had several callers. Geo. come home this evening.
Jan 31
Snowed & rained and froze until it was very slippery. I went to the church to hear Mr. Perkins last lecture.
Feb 1
16 below zero this morning and the wind is blowing hard. Went to Guild at Mrs. Perkins’. I helped entertain.
Feb 2
Still very cold. 18 below. Crocheted some today. Blanche and I made a couple of calls. We went to the Drs. this evening. The ground hog saw his shadow.
Feb 3
Not quite so cold. I ironed this morning. Not feeling very good. We had several callers today.
Feb 4
After 12 last night it began to snow and blow. Has been a real blizzard all day. We had no church or S School.
Feb 5
Bright and not so cold. Geo and Blanche went to Keokuk this morning. Millie come on evening train.
Feb 6
A very nice day. Millie and I have had a good visit. G (Geo.) & B (Blanche) come home this evening. I washed today.
Feb 7
A very nice day. We ironed and visited all day. The girls went up to Alaudiari awhile.
Feb 8
A light skift of snow but the Sun come out and was a nice day but cold. Blanche & Millie went home this evening.
Feb 9
Been a very nice day. I gave my house a good cleaning. Worked hard all day. Am tired tonight.
Feb 10
Nice but cold. Have not done much today. Was up at Mrs. Shepherds awhile. Had callers in. Talked to Blanche at Doud’s.
Feb 11
Bright but cold. Went to S School & church this afternoon. Mrs. Day and I went to see the sick. Went to church tonight.
Feb 12
Been cloudy part of the day and cold. I washed this morning. Been crocheting this afternoon.
Feb 13
Been a lovely day. I had a letter from Geo. M (Morrow) asking Geo. (Sommerville) & I to come up and take charge of things while they were away. Mrs. Day & I went calling this afternoon. Spent the eve at Mrs. P. (Perkins)
Feb 14
Lovely day. I ironed and washed another wash. Getting ready to go to Osk. (Oskaloosa) Made 3 aprons, patched, and did a lot of other work.
Feb 15
Cloudy today. Went down town. Got me some rubbers. Packed my valise. Been busy all day.
Feb 16
Oskaloosa. Arrived at 12:15 today. Geo. M. (Morrow) was to meet me. B. (Blanche) looked bad. The rest are well. Io came home tonight.
Feb 17
We have all been busy today. Cleo come at noon on one train and Geo. on next and Clyde and Millie on evening.
Feb 18
We all was at home all day. Had a big dinner and a jolly time all day. C (Clyde) & M (Millie) went home on the 9:25 train tonight.
Feb 19
A bad day. Rained and froze as it fell most of morning. We have washed, ironed & sewed. Had callers. Cleo went home this afternoon.
Feb 20
Cloudy most of day. We have done a little of everything. The soldier boys come home this evening. Was a big crowd out to welcome them.
Feb 21
Was misty this morning but cleared up and was nice. Geo. & Blanche started to Rochester this morning. Have been busy all day. Had a woman here to work. Geo. (Sommerville) & C. (Cyrene) have gone to show.
Feb 22
Been a very nice day. We have been very busy. Had a woman to help. Lent starts today. Am tired tonight.
Feb 23
Cold and clear. Mrs. Moon worked again today. Io come home. Did not get here until 12 tonight. Train 4 hours late. M & I (Margaret & Io) went to a show.
Feb 24
Colder today. We have been busy today. Have had a house full every night so far. Cyrene & I went to town this afternoon.
Feb 25
A lovely day. I have been home all day. The most lonesome day I ever seen. Am going to bed early.
Feb 26
A nice day but cool. I washed some this morning. Been busy all day again. Cyrene and I went to see Mrs. O’Conner this evening.
Feb 27
Been a lovely day but cool. Worked hard all day. Margaret and I were invited to Mrs. Durbin’s for tea this evening. A nice time.
Feb 28
A nice day. Have worked hard. Swept upstairs. M. (Margaret) & I went to a show tonight. Sure was good.
Mar 1
March sure come in nice. We do the same old work here every day. M. (Margaret) & I went down town and got some muslin and other things.
Mar 2
Another nice day. I cut out Cyrene some Teddy bear suits and made one. Also myself an apron.
Mar 3
Colder this morning. Had a skift of snow last night. Io come home this evening. We were all at town.
Mar 4
Cold today. I don’t feel very good. Did not sleep much last night. Cyrene and I went to see Mrs. Wear this afternoon.
Mar 5
Not quite so cold today. Had a letter from Geo. (Morrow) today. Blanche was operated on Sat. 3rd. Stood it all right. Feel so relieved.
Mar 6
A lovely day. 52 above zero. We have been very busy. Cleaned upstairs. I baked cookies. M. (Margaret) and I went to the library this evening.
Mar 7
Bad today. Tried to snow. I washed some this morning. Made me an apron.
Mar 8
Been nice but cold. I ironed some and finished a book. I got my clock from Cleo’s today. Is sure a nice one. Was better all evening.
Mar 9
A lovely day. Washed all morning. Girls and I went to town this afternoon. Went to theater to see “Daddy Long Legs”. Was good.
Mar 10
Pleasant but cooler. We cleaned all up today. Had quite a rain & hail storm tonight. Girls got caught in it.
Mar 11
Cooler today. Cyrene, Io, & I went to the First Presbyterian church this morning. Heard a good sermon. Read some of afternoon. Had a spell with my stomach tonight.
Mar 12
Snowed, rained & hailed and so dark can hardly do anything. I have felt miserable all day. Mrs. Johnson come this evening.
Mar 13
Rained most of the night and most all day. Sure is dark & dreary. Worked hard today.
Mar 14
Nice but colder. We swept all the up stairs today. Margaret, Cyrene and I went to the opera house to see “Maggie Peppers”. Sure was a good play.
Mar 15
Very nice today. Had a card from B. (Blanche) She is doing nicely. I had company this afternoon. Am 60 years old today. P. K. come this evening.
Mar 16
Rained most of the day. The roof leaked here and we had a time of it. Io did not come home this evening. To bad.
Mar 17
Cold and bad. The sun tried to shine a little. Margaret went to a big party at Penn tonight, Cyrene and I went to town and the library.
Mar 18
Been bright all day but cold. I have been at home all day. Lottie came in this afternoon. Wrote letter rest of time.
Mar 19
Bright and nice today. Phil went to work out at Penn college.
Mar 20
Another nice day. This afternoon Margaret and I went to see “Little Miss Geo. Washington”. Sure was cute. Geo. (Sommerville) went tonight.
Mar 21
Sure is a nice day for first of Spring. Geo. (Sommerville) and I swept up stairs this morning. He went home this afternoon.
Mar 22
Nice today. I have swept and baked today. Wrote letters this evening. Has clouded up and is thundering and lighting.
Mar 23
A nice day. We cleaned up all the house today. Mrs. Moon helped. Geo. (Morrow) and Blanche come home tonight. She looks pretty well.
Mar 24
Nice day. We have not done very much today. Had to talk too much. Cyrene is feeling poorly.
Mar 25
Lovely today. M. (Margaret) went to S. School. Io and I got dinner. Cyrene is miserable. G & B (Geo. & Blanche) -took her to the hospital to be examined. They left her there. Have not passed an ????.
Mar 26
Nice day after all the threatening weather this morning. Cyrene is about the same. Blanche is doing fine.
Mar 27
Nice day. Cyrene is about the same. I was at the hospital with her today. Geo. & B (Blanche) are there tonight. Mrs. Monon came today.
Mar 28
Lovely day. Cyrene seems a little better. Mrs Monon went home this afternoon. Millie come on this evening train.
Mar 29
A lovely day. B & M (Blanche & Millie) went to see Cyrene. She seems better.
Mar 30
A nice day. Millie has been making her a silk skirt. Cyrene is about the same.
Mar 31
Not so warm today. Io and I went to town. I got me some vests and dresses. Io got a lovely silk dress. Wore my new hat. We were all at home tonight.
Apr 1
Cloudy all morning and wind and spit snow most of day. Been home all day. Cyrene they say is some better. Blanche doing very well.
Apr 2
Very nice day. This afternoon B (Blanche) and I went out to see the new college. Went to see Cyrene. Also went down town. B, M, (Blanche, Millie) & I went down to Huia’s this evening.
Apr 3
Cloudy this morning. Rained some about 10 o’clock. Phil worked over time tonight. Made supper for B, M & I. Went over to Mrs. Blar’s this evening.
Apr 4
Began to rain about 5 o’clock and has kept it up all day. I was to go to Ottumwa but did not on account of rain. Don’t know what I’ll do.
Apr 5
Ottumwa. Arrived here at noon. Not looking for me. Last evening we went down town. Had a public patriotic demonstration. Sure was a crowd out. Later went to a picture show.
Apr 6
Lovely day. Millie and I went to town. I got me a silk waist and a few dishes. Millie went to lodge. C (Clyde) & I staid at home. Going home tomorrow.
Apr 7
I got home at 8:30 this morning. Began to snow just as we got here. Kept it up all day. About 4 in. deep. I found every thing all ok at home.
Apr 8
Lovely bright day. The snow is about gone. Went to the church. The S. School had their concert. Very good. Went to church tonight. War, War, is all you hear.
Apr 9
Nice day. I worked all morning. Had a lot of callers. Went to town. Got a sack of flour, a new skillet and a lot of other things.
Apr 10
Nice day. Been busy all day. Went to town again. Got some seeds.
Apr 11
Cloudy. Sprinkled several times but finally cleared up. I washed. Worked out a little. Had a small fire. John Minnich’s shop.
Apr 12
Bright but the wind is cold. I ironed this morning. Another fire at noon. Burned part of roof off of Lawson’s. I worked out awhile. All in tonight.
Apr 13
Looks nice but the wind is cold. Worked so hard today. I took down all the alley fence also the middle one. Going to build new. Trimmed bushes and raked. Hard days work.
Apr 14
Not very warm but I worked out from 6 until 6. Burned all the trash. Looks better. Geo. put in the fence posts. Am so tired tonight.
Apr 15
Bright but cold. Went to church both times. This afternoon Mrs. Day and I went to a funeral at Christian church.
Apr 16
Cloudy and cold. This morning began raining about 9 and rained most of the day. Went down town. Got wire for alley fence, seeds, and groceries.
Apr 17
Bright and warm today. Worked out all day. Geo. put up the wire today. Set out 50 strawberry plants today.
Apr 18
Nice today until about 5 when we had a big rain with some hail. I put out the middle fence today and did a little of everything.
Apr 19
Clouded and rained some. Is so cold. Have been fixing over a waist. The Perkins was down awhile. Ruth (Shaffer) is 14 years old the 18th.
Apr 20
Is real cold. Too cold to have my garden spaded. Cleaned up my house good and sewed some.
Apr 21
Very changeable weather. Too cold to work out. I am making a skirt for Anna Cochrel. Don’t feel very good. So stiff and sore.
Apr 22
The sun has shone all day and has warmed up. Went down town. Sent B. (Blanche) some plants. Sewed some and worked out some.
Apr 23
Lovely day. Had my garden spaded today. Put in potatoes and everything else. Geo. & Birt. worked all day.
Apr 24
Another nice day. Couberly & I did a little of everything today. Geo and Birt got their onion in today. 7 miles long if they were in a line.
Apr 25
Awful cold and cloudy. Rained last night. I did a big washing. Am so stiff & sore I can hardly go forward. Word Cyrene is not so well.
Apr 26
Cloudy and cold. I ironed this morning. Went to Guild at Mrs. Overman’s. Began to rain just as it was out and kept it up all night.
Apr 27
Has rained all day and is cold. Cleaned the drawers of one dresser. This afternoon I patched. Was up at Mrs. Shepherds awhile this evening.
Apr 28
So cold am afraid my things will freeze. Been patching most of day. Letter tonight. Cyrene is no better.
Apr 29
Is real cold. Sun has tried to shine a few times today. Went to S School & church. Went to the M E Church. Was a rally they gave the boys that leave for the war. A good crowd and good speeches.
Apr 30
Began raining about seven o’clock and has kept it up all day. Quite a show with it this afternoon. There were about 600 went to the depot to see the boy’s off and it was pouring down. Do hope May will come in bright.
May 1
The sun shone today but is cold. Sewed some today. Went to Lun Crary’s to a cemetery meeting this evening.
May 2
Cold and cloudy. I washed some and got my clothes dry. Went out to see Mrs. Savage this afternoon. Has begun to rain this evening.
May 3
Rained all night. Cold and cloudy. Finished the little shoes and sent them. Let was up and spent the afternoon.
May 4
Rained again and snowed some this morning. Been working in guilt pieces. Spent the evening with Jennie.
May 5
The sun has shone today but is cold. Cleaned up my house good. Worked some out of doors and tonight I am sore, stiff, and sick all over.
May 6
Cold and gloomy. Went to church this afternoon. Went to the Opera House to hear a Russelite speak. To church again tonight. I have felt pretty good today.
May 7
A bright lovely day. Had a big frost last night. Worked out all day.
May 8
Another nice day. Boys went to the farm today. Went down town. Got paper for my sitting room.
May 9
Been changeable today. Picked up all my kindling I cut up. Planted some more beans and lettuce. Had a few minute shower.
May 10
Bright all morning. I washed. Afternoon papered my summer kitchen. Had a big rain this afternoon. Went to prayer meeting.
May 11
Bright this morning. Clouded up and had a little shower about 2 o’clock. Sun come out for rest of day. I set out tomato plants today and finished planting.
May 12
A lovely day. I swept, scrubbed, and ironed. Went down town this afternoon. Got 1 doz. tin cans. Had to give 60 for them.
May 13
A lovely day went to S School and church. In afternoon made a few calls. Went to church this evening.
May 14
Been rather hazy all day. Cleaned one closet and took things out of my room. Callers tonight. Took a silk dress to make tonight.
May 15
A lovely day. I cleaned 2 bedrooms today. Am just about all in tonight.
May 16
Beautiful day. Begins to seem like summer. I did not sleep any last night. Hardly able to move today. Cut out a silk skirt and got it partly basted.
May 17
Another nice day. I have sewed all day. Went to prayer meeting tonight.
May 18
Lovely again today. Am still sewing. Awfully tired tonight.
May 19
Nice again. A shower would not hurt things. Got my dress and waist done. Looked nice. “The Birth of a Nation” is played here tonight.
May 20
Lovely day. Not quite so warm. Went to S School. Been home all day. Mr. Perkins preached at Birmingham today. Is sprinkling some this evening. Hope it will rain.
May 21
Rained all night and all day. Blanche took Cyrene to Rochester today. Hope to find out what is the matter with her.
May 22
Damp and cold. Made a waist for Mrs. Shepherd today. Took a silk skirt to make.
May 23
Sun is shinning and is warmer. Made my silk waist today. Went to the Open Hour to see the children’s program. Sure was good. The play was tonight. Did not go.
May 24
Warmer today. Been sewing. Geo. sit up at McBethr. He is very low. The graduates had their program tonight.
May 25
Cloudy and not so warm. Worked what I could on the silk skirt. Hoed some this evening. Geo. got a hen & 20 chickens tonight. Raining again tonight.
May 26
Sun shone today. I worked out all morning. Mowed for the first time. Finished a silk skirt. Had several callers.
May 27
Cloudy and cold all day. Went to S School and memorial services and to Capt McBethr funeral this afternoon. Was no church tonight Wrote to Phil & Seth.
May 28
Cleaned the front bed room and closet today. Harvey cleaned the rug. Am so tired. Feel like I never could do.
May 29
Washed this morning and finished putting things in place. Went to the Cong. Church to hear a woman speak form Turkey. Rained all evening.
May 30
Rained last night and all day today. A few went to the cemetery. I sent a few flowers. Never was such fine flowers before. Speaking was in OH. I did not go. Heard from B. (Blanche) They are at home.
May 31
Nice when I got up but soon clouded up. I washed and got a few dry. After noon I took everything out of front room. Had Harvey awhile to work. He tore off the paper and washed windows.
Jun 1
Rained so did not get much done. Waiting on Geo. to paper.
Jun 2
Rained again. Geo. put on about half of the paper. I cleaned the woodwork in kitchen.
Jun 3
Sun shine today. Went to S School & church both times.
Jun 4
Washed this morning. Geo. went to his truck patch. About 11 o’clock it began to rain an awful rain. The road was a river. Geo did not get in until night. Cleo & Phil come in the downpour.
Jun 5
Rained all night and all morning. Geo finished the papering and Cleo & I got the room fixed up. Another awful rain tonight. The river is very high.
Jun 6
Rained terribly last night. The folks that were at the Open House had to wade home. We got all fixed up today. Another little shower tonight and has cleared off. If it only lasts.
Jun 7
Thank goodness the Sun has shone all day and it is warm. We have sewed part of day. Went to prayer meeting.
Jun 8
Cleo washed this morning & I went to cemetery. Rain come up and we had to hurry home. Had quite a shower.
Jun 9
We ironed and worked hard all day. Cleo went down to Dorothy’s for a few days. This evening I was up at Mrs. Shepherds awhile.
Jun 10
Sure a lovely day. I went to S. School. The children had a concert today. Sure was good. Went to see Mrs. Brown this afternoon. Church tonight.
Jun 11
Nice today. I began work at 6 o’clock in the garden and worked until 6. Geo. was at his garden all day. Sure am tired. Looks like rain.
Jun 12
Rained hard last night. I moved out in summer kitchen today. Am all through house cleaning now. Two men were drowned up at Pittsburg today. Boat upset. Simply pouring down rain.
Jun 13
Sewed some this morning. Went down to Dorothy’s this afternoon. Cleo (daughter Cleo Dorothy) and I went down town to see the river. It is very high. All over the bottoms.
Jun 14
Nice Day. I partly made Ollie a dress. Sewed over at Sylvia Wilson’s this afternoon. Cleo and I went to the picture show tonight. River still rising.
Jun 15
Another nice day. I worked out all day. Got my yard and garden all cleaned up. Looks nice. Am so tired tonight.
Jun 16
Nice morning. I cleaned up all my house. Cut out and partly made another dress for Ollie. Had a little shower. Cleo went to Keokuk. Found the body of one the drowned.
Jun 17
A lovely day. Went to S. School and church. The Chautauqua begins today. Don’t think will go this year.
Jun 18
A lovely day. I washed this morning. Got a hen and 24 chicken this morning. I went to Chautauqua this afternoon and night
Jun 19
Another lovely day. I ironed, went to town. Went over to Days and helped Birt iron. Was there for dinner. Went to Chautauqua. Such a good lecture. Word come, Will Duckworth died last night.
Jun 20
Lovely day. Sewed this morning. Went to Chautauqua. Was good. Cleo come back this evening and Ruth come with her. We all went down town this evening.
Jun 21
Beautiful day. I went to the funeral this morning. Such a big crowd. Cleo went to Birmingham. Ruth (Shaffer) and I to Chautauqua. We did not go tonight. Both had the headache.
Jun 22
A nice day. Ruth and I went to Chautauqua. This morning was the spelling contest. Afternoon the graduation of 8th grade pupils. Did not go tonight.
Jun 23
A nice day. Went to Chautauqua in afternoon and evening. This finished it up here. Been very good.
Jun 24
Lovely day. I went to church. Ruth did not go as she was not well. We both went at night.
Jun 25
Nice day. I washed and went down town. Sewed some. Had callers. I got 5 gal. of cherries.
Jun 26
Hot today. Put up my cherries.
Jun 27
Cloudy this morning. Rained last night. I ironed this morning. Had a hard electrical storm tonight. Mr. J B Day died this evening.
Jun 28
A very nice day. After the storm, got 2 gal. of goose berries. Mrs. Day and I went up to J B Day. Ruth and I went down town. Also went to prayer meeting.
Jun 29
A nice day. Canned gooseberries and huckleberries. Also got 5 gal. of cherries and canned them. Went over to Day’s this evening.
Jun 30
Nice day. Cleaned up the house and I made Birt a kimono apron and Nellie a dress. Florene come on evening train. Ruth, she, and I went down town.
Jul 1
Rained some last night and was cloudy until noon. Cleared off nice. WE all went to S School and Ruth and I to church. Mrs. Day and I went out to McCoulough. Birt and girls a walk.
Jul 2
A very pretty day. Canned gooseberries. We all went down town to see the show parade. Let took the girls. Ruth and I took Florene to the depot. She went home.
Jul 3
Not so hot today. I washed this morning and ironed this afternoon. Ruth and I are going to Douds tomorrow.
Jul 4
A lovely day. Ruth and I went to Douds on morning train. Blanche was there to meet us. We had a royal time. Found Cyrene about the same. Come home on evening train.
Jul 5
Nice day. Not done much today. Ruth, Mrs. Day, and I went up to Day’s garden and then to the band concert.
Jul 6
Had a hard electrical storm until 11 o’clock. I sewed mowed part of yard and then went up to Mrs. Wilkerson’s this eve.
Jul 7
An awful hot morning. I finished mowing the yard and pulled weeds. Ruth and I took a walk this evening in upper part of town.
Jul 8
Nice day. We went to S. School and church. Home all afternoon. Went to church tonight. Mr. P. (Perkins) sure preached two fine sermons.
Jul 9
Nice day. Did a big wash this morning. This evening we went over to Mrs. Day’s and seeded cherries for her.
Jul 10
Ironed this morning and went and canned 17 quarts of cherries for Mrs. Day. She had sick head ache. Geo finished papering for Mrs. Wilkerson today.
Jul 11
A nice day. Made a white comfort for Millie today. Geo went to the country to paper. Got 2 gal. of raspberries canned. 6 pt.
Jul 12
Nice day. I made 6 pt. of jam, canned a jar of beans, made some pillow slips. Went to Guild at Mrs. Stricklings. 38 there. Went to prayer meeting. Had a nice shower.
Jul 13
Had a nice rain and looks like we might have some more. I finished a skirt for a girl and been sewing some. Are 3 cases of typhoid in town.
Jul 14
Nice day. Cleaned up all my house. We went down town in afternoon. Made a call. Spent the evening at Mrs. Day’s.
Jul 15
Lovely day. We went to S School & church. In afternoon Mrs. Day & I went up to Zeeglar’s. Had a nice time. Went to church in evening.
Jul 16
Fine morning. I did a big washing. Geo. come home sick. He is working too hard. Had an awful hard rain this afternoon. Heavy hail in some places.
Jul 17
Nice day. Ironed this morning. Sewed some. Am making a dress for Ruth.
Jul 18
A very warm day. This afternoon Mrs. Day, Mrs. Zeeglar, Ruth, and I all went to see Geo’s garden. I tell you it was some walk. We were all dead tired tonight.
Jul 19
The hottest day so far. I am so stiff & tired. Have not done any thing today. Ruth did not get up until noon. Geo. went to the garden to work.
Jul 20
A nice day. I feel some better but still stiff. Not done much of any thing.
Jul 21
Another hot day. Give my house a good going over. Ruth & I went to town. Went over to Day’s tonight. Birt & Nellie come home.
Jul 22
Hot. Tried to rain some but failed. Went to S School and church. Home all afternoon. Went to church Tonight.
Jul 23
Cloudy this morning but has failed so far to rain. I washed and got my clothes dry. Been crocheting today.
Jul 24
So hot. I ironed this morning and did some patching. Went down town. Went to see Let. Sent Millie some things. Went auto riding. Quick storm came up and we hurried home.
Jul 25
Hot. Lay around all morning. Birt came over and we made two pair of baby shoes. Spent the evening with Mrs. Wilkins.
Jul 26
Awfully hot. Read most of morning. Made a pair of booties in afternoon. Ruth & I spent the evening at Mrs. Perkins.
Jul 27
Very hot today. I canned beans this morning. This afternoon I went to the Rest Room to work at Red Cross. Spent the evening at Flaudea Day’s.
Jul 28
Awful hot but a good breeze. Went to the Court House part for a Red Cross auction. Had a big crowd. Made about $250. Awfully tired.
Jul 29
Hot. Went to S School and church. Home all afternoon. Went to church in grove at evening. Mr. P. preached.
Jul 30
Hot and dry. Did a big washing and cleaned up all the house. Mrs. Day, Ruth, and I went up to Mary Miller’s and spent the evening.
Jul 31
Very hot. We ironed and lay around rest of day. Was so awful hot. Went up to Mrs. Day’s in evening.
Aug 1
Showered a little last night and has been cooler today. Seems good. Went to the church to a lecture tonight.
Aug 2
Still cooler. Have read most of day. Went down town to the band concert. Got word that Io & Cyrene will be here in the morning.
Aug 3
Warm again. Cleaned the house good. The girls come. Cyrene is looking fine. She & Ruth are having a big time. Io and I went down town.
Aug 4
Still warm. Did not do much of any thing. We all went down town and up to the grove to the Guild Carnival. They cleared $20.
Aug 5
A lovely day. I took Cyrene to the Osteopath Dr. this morning. He don’t think she has consumption. We were home rest of day. Lo Paice’s had a boy this morning.
Aug 6
A nice day. Have not done any thing but rest. The girls sure are having a good time. Things are sure lively. Io and I went down town.
Aug 7
Had a good rain last night. I was sick all night & today. The girls went to Douds this evening. Ruth went to the train with them. Seems still tonight.
Aug 8
Nice and cool. Ruth & I did an awful big washing today and then cleaned all the house good. We are so tired tonight.
Aug 9
Had a good rain last night. We ironed today. I made a gallon of pickles. Is real cool tonight. I am not feeling very well.
Aug 10
A little warmer this morning. Salted pickles. Canned some. Did some sewing in afternoon. Got a letter from P. K. He was rejected. (by Army)
Aug 11
A nice day. Worked hard all morning. Had several callers this afternoon. The Day’s was over this evening. Mrs. Overman started to Calif. Today.
Aug 12
Cool. Has rained some this morning. Went to S School and to the ME church tonight.
Aug 13
Rather cloudy. I made 8 quart jars of pickles and 5 doz. of dilli. Ruth was up at Mary Miller’s all morning.
Aug 14
Cloudy today. We washed and got our clothes dry. Made 2 gal. of kraut. Not feeling very good tonight.
Aug 15
A lovely day. We ironed this morning. The afternoon we went to the Grove to old Settlers meeting. A good crowd there. Had a telegram this evening that Millie has a daughter.
Aug 16
Is hot again. Worked out of doors most of morning. Rec’d an announcement card of Virginia Harriet Pickett. Went down to the concert tonight.
Aug 17
Warm. I did a little pickling this morning. Went to the Rest Room to the Red Cross work. The Guild was in charge today. Ruth & I were up at Jennie’s.
Aug 18
Hot again. Hoed & Mowed and cleaned the back yard. We went down town this afternoon.
Aug 19
Still hot. We went to S School this morning. Home rest of day. Ruth got a letter to come home.
Aug 20
Cloudy. We did a big washing and ironed part of it. Ruth & I made several good by calls. She went on evening train.
Aug 21
Cloudy but no rain. I cleaned all the house. Made pickles, canned kraut & elderberries. Went down town. Took my shoes to get fixed.
Aug 22
Hot today. I washed again and ironed. Duy my potatoes. Went down town. Put away my dried corn. 1 gal. Don’t feel very well.
Aug 23
Hot and dusty. Jussie Shaffer and her little boy from St. Goeui’s come this evening. So glad to see them. We went down town. Am tired tonight.
Aug 24
Pleasant today. We started to the cemetery at 8 o’clock and made 5 calls. Are going to the band concert tonight. Sure am tired.
Aug 25
Very windy and rather cool. Jess & Hal are visiting over the river today. I have worked so hard today to get everything in order. Am going to Ottumwa tomorrow.
Aug 26
Ottumwa. I arrived here at 10:30. Got my dinner and went to the hospital to see Millie and baby. She is so cute. Went home to get supper for Clyde. Am so tired.
Aug 27
Cleaned up Millie’s house and got dinner. Brought her home this afternoon. Had several callers. Baby is so good.
Aug 28
Thank goodness it has rained most of the day. We needed it so badly. The baby is so good. Sleeps all the time.
Aug 29
A lovely day. Had our washing done. Had company today. Dot Scott & baby from Sumone. I went up town. Got a bed for baby. Her Uncle Geo. (Sommerville) gave it to her.
Aug 30
A nice day. We worked hard all day. Changed things around to make room for the babies bed. I washed some. Had so much company. We are all tired tonight.
Aug 31
Been a busy day. For dinner we had Jule Landis from Chicago. Mrs. Scott from Sumone, and Mrs. Jess Shaffer & boy from St Louis. Besides callers. We are all tired tonight.
Sep 1
Cloudy and tried to rain some in evening. Today I made some chili sauce, some chow-chow, and some plum jelly. Am tired tonight.
Sep 2
Nice day. I got up early and let the rest sleep. Kept baby this afternoon while Millie went calling.
Sep 3
Rained off and on all day. We washed and got our clothes dry between showers. Clyde has gone to lodge and we are going to bed early.
Sep 4
Rained most of morning. I ironed. Millie went up to town this afternoon. The baby was so good. We are tired tonight. Clyde went to lodge.
Sep 5
Nice day but awfully hot. I went up to town this afternoon. Got my winter under clothing and some stockings. Millie & I went to the carnival tonight.
Sep 6
Oskaloosa. I come here today. Found Geo. & M. (Margaret) sick. They are very nicely fixed in their new home. Have the headache tonight and am tired.
Sep 7
Rained again last night. Cleared up about noon. Blanche & I went up town and to a picture show, “The Little American”. Io come home this evening. It is real cool this evening.
Sep 8
Home. Left Oskaloosa at 10:30 for Ottumwa. Staid there until 4 and got here at 6. Found everything all OK. Was tired and went to bed early.
Sep 9
Have been home all day. Did not try to do much and did not feel like going to church. Read all afternoon. Wrote letter tonight. Looks like rain tonight.
Sep 10
Cloudy and cold. I cleaned the front of the house. Everything was so dusty. There is so much to do. Am so tired tonight.
Sep 11
Still cold. A slight frost but did not hurt anything. I did a big washing. Went down town and have worked hard all day.
Sep 12
Not quite so cold. I have canned beans, corn, tomatoes. Made apple jelly and some butter. Made pickles so I am very tired tonight.
Sep 13
Some warmer. Worked awfully hard today. So much to do. Went to prayer meeting.
Sep 14
Warmer. Cleaned up this morning and have sewed this afternoon. Was up at Jennie’s tonight.
Sep 15
Has warmed up a good deal. I ironed this morning. I finished my piano scarf I was making for Mrs. Perkins birthday and took it up tonight.
Sep 16
Been hot today. Went to S School and church. Wrote letter this afternoon. Went to church tonight.
Sep 17
Nice. I made pickles. Washed some for George and been busy all day.
Sep 18
Threatening. Wish it would rain. Still canning and pickling. I ironed Geo. clothes and packed his suit case. He is going to Chicago.
Sep 19
Cloudy. I mowed the yard. Will be the last time this fall. Geo. got off. Lonesome. Went to Guild at Wilson’s. Mrs. Day and I spent the evening.
Sep 20
All kinds of a day. Sun shine & rained some. I finished up pickles today. Made a jar of kraut. I went to prayer meeting.
Sep 21
Lovely day. Gave my house a good cleaning. Put away fruit. Worked hard all day. 41 men went to war from this county. Awful crowd in town.
Sep 22
Another nice day. I worked hard all morning. Baked some. Went to town. Is real chilly tonight. Going to bed to keep warm. 8:20
Sep 23
Lovely this morning but chilly. Went to S School & church both times.
Sep 24
Lovely day. I did an awful big washing and cleaned up everything. Am awfully tired tonight but went to the Opera house to a play.
Sep 25
Nice this morning but clouded up and looks like rain. Did my ironing and this afternoon went to the rest room to work for the Red Cross.
Sep 26
Rained last night and has kept it up all day and looks like it might all night. I put in most of day writing letters.
Sep 27
Cleared off and is nice & warm. Not done very much today. Went to prayer meeting.
Sep 28
Nice day. I have been moving out of the Summer kitchen. Getting ready for coal. Am so tired. Going to bed early.
Sep 29
Been a chilly wind all day. Feels like fall. Got 4 tons of coal today. Went down town. Have to do my own marketing. Spent the evening at Mrs. Days.
Sep 30
A bright day but the wind is chilly. Went to S School and church. We had none tonight so went to the M.E. Mrs. Day and I spent the afternoon at Mary’s. Aora Ream has a little daughter.
Oct 1
Chilly. I set my oil stove in the house. I made 6 pt. of chili sauce and canned my peppers. Went to town. Am dizzy tonight and don’t feel very good. Cloudy tonight.
Oct 2
Rained some last evening. Cloudy this morning. Today is the county picnic at the county home.
Oct 3
Real chilly. Moved out my stove and got it blacked. I have tried all day to get some one to help me.
Oct 4
Had a killing frost last night. I cleaned my sitting room. Rolled the rug up until I can get some one to help. Been married 41 years today. Went to prayer meeting.
Oct 5
It is real chilly. Done a little of every thing today. No one to help yet. Went up to Flaudia Day’s this evening.
Oct 6
Bright but chilly wind. Got a boy to work today. Picked 3 bu. of apples. Cleaned the rug and put up the stove.
Oct 7
Nice this morning but turned cold and cloudy. Went to S School and church both times. Wrote several letters.
Oct 8
Cold. Worked hard all day. Canned ½ bu. of peaches. Cut up ½ bu. of apples for vinegar. Am so tired.
Oct 9
Cloudy but sun shone part of time. Also rained some about noon. I did a big washing and a lot of other things.
Oct 10
Cold & cloudy. Real wintry. I ironed and fixed around. Am going to Cedar Rapids tomorrow. Went down town.
Oct 11
Bright & cold. 14 below zero this morning. Been working. Washed some. Cleaned 2 chickens. Am sending Cleo one. Made a fruit cake. Birt & I are baking it in her oven.
Oct 12
Oct 13
Oct 14
Oct 15
A lovely day. I am still at home. I took sick with one of my dizzy spells and did not get to go. Millie come down. I got up yesterday. Am awfully weak. We are talking of going to Keokuk tomorrow.
Oct 16
Oct 17
Oct 18
Oct 19
Oct 20
I come home from Keokuk this evening. Had a nice visit but Friday I was sick so thought it best to come home. Millie will stay a few days yet. Wilk Roberts died this morning.
Oct 21
Was nice this morning but clouded up and looks like rain. I have been at home all day. Am feeling better. Birt was over awhile. Been writing letters.
Oct 22
Cloudy & cold. Rained some. Also snowed some. I cleaned up my house and went down town and went to see Mrs. Roberts. Millie is coming in the morning.
Oct 23
Cold & windy. Went to the train to meet Millie. Baby and I come down in the bus. Went to the funeral this afternoon. Afterwards I went up to see Mary Miller & her new baby.
Oct 24
Millie and I did an awful big washing this morning. I went to the train. Geo. come home today. Was gone 5 weeks.
Oct 25
I don’t feel very well. Cleaned up my house and lay around rest of day. Began to rain this afternoon and is still at it.
Oct 26
Rained all night but cleared off this morning. I did my ironing this morning.
Oct 27
Rained in the night but nice today. I baked cookies & pies and worked all morning. Went over to Day’s awhile. Am not feeling very well.
Oct 28
Been cloudy & blustery all day. Went to S School & church. Read this afternoon. There is no church tonight. Mr. Perkins is not very well.
Oct 29
Rained last night and turned to snow. And has snowed all day. Mostly melted as it fell. A real winter day.
Oct 30
Sun has shown part of day. Pretty chilly. I washed this morning. Also washed a pair of flannels. Went up to Jennie Wilkin’s tonight.
Oct 31
Is real chilly. Worked all morning. Went to Guild this afternoon at Nell Jeril’s. 35 there. Was over at Day’s tonight. Quite a few trick treating.
Nov 1
Cloudy. Spit snow some. Geo. & I raked up leaves & burned and covered up things. Been downtown twice. Went to prayer meeting.
Nov 2
Had quite a surprise last evening after I got home from prayer meeting. May Janaison from Moultin come on the train. Was so late. Had a nice visit. Am going to make her dress.
Nov 3
A lovely day. Have sewed all day. Went to the church. A Rev. Johnson preached. Was good. A mariak it was Friday night. We had church.
Nov 4
Another nice day. Looks like we might have some good weather. Hope so. Went to S School & church both times. Went up to Mary Miller’s this afternoon.
Nov 5
A lovely day. Sewed all day on Mary’s dress.
Nov 6
Another nice day. Sewed this morning. Went to the Red Cross meeting this afternoon. Was up to Mrs. Shepperd’s. She come home. Also over at Phyliss’ this evening.
Nov 7
Lovely today. Sewed so hard all day. Am so tired. Wrote to Blanche & Cleo. Jim Fickey is very low tonight.
Nov 8
Been foggy all day. Made May’s waist today. Went to the Opera House to the second “Lecture course entermist”. Sure was good.
Nov 9
Still foggy. I finished up May’s sewing today. Sent Betty a dress. She is 2 years old today. Tired so am going to bed early.
Nov 10
The fog lifted this morning and the sun come out. Just like sprint. Cleaned up & baked this morning. Mrs. Day and I went to see sick folks this afternoon.
Nov 11
Lovely day. Went to S School & church. Went to cemetery and to see the sick this afternoon. James Fickey died this morning.
Nov 12
Foggy and a mist. Almost rain. Have not done much.
Nov 13
Still foggy. Not doing much. Just a little crocheting
Nov 14
Still bad. Do wish it would clear up. Looks a little lighter.
Nov 15
Clear and warm this morning. So I did a big washing. Had a big Y.M.C.A. meeting at Opera House. Raised $1771 (or maybe $17.17)
Nov 16
Still bright. I ironed. Went down town. Today is Lenore’s (Lenora Shaffer born Nov 6, 1899) birthday.
Nov 17
A nice day. Not done much of anything. Mrs. Day and I made a few calls.
Nov 18
A lovely day. Went to S School and church both times. Was over to see Mrs. Boyer. Wrote to Seth.
Nov 19
Nice day. I cleaned up my house and sorted over some clothes. Was over at Mrs. Day’s.
Nov 20
Lovely day. I washed. Also washed my windows and baked cookies. Was tired and lay around all afternoon.
Nov 21
A very warm day. I ironed and sewed on my dress.
Nov 22
Not so warm today. Finished my dress and went to the Rest Room to the Red Cross work. Went to prayer meeting. Getting colder.
Nov 23
Cold today. Mrs. Day come for me before I had my breakfast. Birt is sick. Was there most all day.
Nov 24
Did my own work and have been at Day’s most of the day. Birt is real sick. Has the grip.
Nov 25
A lovely day. Mr. Day come for me this morning. Mrs. Day was down. Flauidia come and we have had our hands full with both of them. Awfully bad.
Nov 26
A miserable day. Drizzly and snowed some and cold and windy. Day’s are both better. Was over there most of morning. Sewed some this afternoon.
Nov 27
Foggy and cloudy but not cold. Been sewing.
Nov 28
Has been a very good day. I went down town and got a few things. Went to the Opera House tonight to a show. Sure was a crowd there.
Nov 29
We have almost forgotten how the sun looks. It is not cold and we never had better roads. We had a nice Thanksgiving dinner. Was up at Perkins’ tonight.
Nov 30
Still cloudy and a little cooler. I washed a few things and cut out some sewing.
Dec 1
Still cloudy. Sewed all day. Spent the evening at Mrs. Wilkins.
Dec 2
Cloudy. Went to S School and church both times. Got word today the Seth & Rose has a girl. My 9th granddaughter. Was born the 29th of Nov. (Josephine Sommerville)
Dec 3
Cloudy but not cold. Finished up some sewing and am sending a bundle to Seth’s baby.
Dec 4
Cloudy but not so cold. I washed and my clothes blew dry. Scrubbed and baked cookies so am real tired tonight.
Dec 5
Cloudy and about noon began to snow. About 1½ in. so far this morning. Was Guild this afternoon at Mrs. Perkins’. I was on the committee to serve.
Dec 6
Snowed about ½ in. more last night. Was the coldest so far this winter. I was up to see Champ. He is sick. So many are having grip. Went to prayer meeting.
Dec 7
Cloudy again and is expecting snow. Do hope it won’t snow. Geo went to Wilson’s to work. Am making me a calico dress. Wrote to Isaac this morning.
Dec 8
Was 10 below zero last night but the sun shone today. I finished my dress. Cleaned up my house.
Dec 9
Spiting snow again and wind is blowing fierce. Went to S School & church. Wrote letter & read this afternoon.
Dec 10
A very decent day after the storm. I went down town and got some gingham to make an apron & a sack flour.
Dec 11
Awfully cold. Washed some. Cut out Betty 4 aprons. Also a dress for Josephine. Geo. come home from the country.
Dec 12
Still cold. Put in an all day sewing. Snowed some last night.
Dec 13
Still cold. Been sewing. Went to prayer meeting.
Dec 14
Snowed some more last night. Finished up my sewing. Cleaned up my house all over. Birt was over tonight.
Dec 15
Worked hard all day. Began snowing at noon and is still at it yet tonight. About 6 in. now. A small fire at Mrs. W. McIntusher.
Dec 16
A lovely sun shiny day. Went to S School & church. Did not go tonight. Have written 5 letters today.
Dec 17
Bright. Thawed quite a bit. Worked button holer in Betty’s apron. Made an apron for Mrs. Perkins. Went down town. Received my Xmas from Phil. A nice brassy lamp.
Dec 18
Dark & cloudy. Thawed all night. Washed and dried my clothes in the house. Made a comfort this after noon. Am awfully tired tonight.
Dec 19
Tried to clear up today. I ironed. Made candy this afternoon. Awfully tired.
Dec 20
A very pretty day. Worked hard all day. Birt come over and we made cream candy. Got word Millie would be here tomorrow.
Dec 21
Sure has been a pretty day. I have spent the day getting packages off. Also cleaned 2 turkeys. Went down town. Wrote 2 letters and some cards.
Dec 22
Cloudy but not very cold. Have worked hard all day. Went down town. Millie & baby come this evening. Train was 2 hours late.
Dec 23
Cloudy but warm and nice. We went to the S School concert. Took Virginia. She was so good. Millie went at night and I kept baby.
Dec 24
Cloudy. Millie and I sure have put in a days work. Was over at Day’s tonight. We are all tired.
Dec 25
A lovely sunny Xmas day. I got several presents & lots of cards. Clyde came this morning. We had a good dinner. C & M went home tonight. Am so tired.
Dec 26
Stormy. I have put in the day cleaning up my house.
Dec 27
Lovely day. I washed some. Went down town. Went to the Opera House tonight to see “A Wise Bob”. It was silly. Had a good house.
Dec 28
Awfully cold. 15 below. I ironed and sewed some. Tired and don’t feel very good.
Dec 29
Sure is cold. Snowed some last night. Phil come last night. Phil come on evening train. He informed me he was married the 10th of the month.
Dec 30
Cold this morning. I went to S School and church. When I got home P. K. & wife were here. They had been at her sisters so I got dinner and we had a very social time in afternoon.
Dec 31
Not quite so cold. P. K. & wife went to here sisters this morning. Will be back here tomorrow. Was all morning getting cleaned up. Good By old year.