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1872 Diary of Luman Putnam of Granville
Transcribed by Betsy Shirk - bshirk2002@yahoo.com Formatted and Published by Joyce M. Tice Transcription copyright 2010 Betsy Shirk and Joyce M. Tice 1854 Diary and Introduction. Also access to many more LumanPutnam Diaries |
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| Luman Putnam | Jerusha Bailey, his first wife |
L. Putnam
Granville Centre, Penn.
Bot of Newman and Parsons
Troy Pa. November 13th 1871
Part Two
May
Wednesday, 1
Second day of Last Quarter. Sun rises at 4-59, & sets at 6-56. Moon rises at 2-18 morn.
It was somewhat cloudy as well as smoky in the morning, but there was not any rain. At sunrise the temperature was 44 degrees. The day has been quite cloudy, and part of the time there has been a heavy wind from the south. Towards night it began to rain a little. At sunset the temperature was up to 58 degrees. The evening is quite rainy.
Read a little while in the morning and then went over to Amanda’s to get a paper giving the dimensions of their farm in order to make a plot of the same. Came home and spent some time at plotting it. Two young men from Geneva called to solicit orders for nursery trees. Agreed to take two European Larches, 4 feet high, at $1.00 apiece. In the afternoon worked a spell at a poesy bed and fixtures in the front door yard.
Thursday, 2
Third day of Last Quarter. Sun rises at 4-58, and sets at 6-57. Moon rises at 2-50 Mor.
Considerable rain last night, the morning partially fair. At the time of sunrise the temperature, as indicated by the mercury, was 47 degrees. The day has continued partially fair and there was a sprinkling of rain in the latter part of the afternoon. The evening too is considerably cloudy, and the mercury at sundown was standing at 45 degrees.
Made preparations in the morning, & soon after breakfast went over to Amanda’s to view and appraise the value of the real estate left by the Doctor. Met six other men there who, with me were appointed by the court for that purpose, and proceeded to the discharge of the duties of our appointment. We all took dinner with Amanda and in the afternoon went down and viewed the Pratt lot. Returned home a little before night and I found the Tribune on my table which Mr. Gilman had brot from office. Luman came & staid over.
Friday, 3
Fourth day of Last Quarter. Sun rises at 4-57, and sets at 6-58. Moon rises at 3-18, M.
The morning was partially cloudy and the weather cooler again. At the time of sunrise the mercury had settled down to the mark for 32 degrees. There was a little sunshine in the forenoon but the afternoon was quite cloudy and a sprinkling of rain towards night. The evening is cloudy and cool, with the mercury at sunset standing at 44 degrees.
Spent the early morning in the usual manner, and after breakfast went to work and finished a posey bed in front of the house and then went over the creek into the woods and got some small poles for morning glories and cypress and brought them up to the house. After taking my dinner and resting a spell I prepared the poles and set them in the bed I had made. Mr. Gilman brought the Reporter from the Post Office. Luman started away after breakfast with some cattle for Barclay.
Saturday, 4
Fifth day of Last Quarter. Sun rises at 4-55, and sets at 6-59. Moon rises at 3-44 Morn.
The morning at the dawn was quite cloudy and a little windy. At the time of sunrise the mercury stood at 36 degrees, so there was no frost. The day continued cloudy, and windy and dull, besides being considerably cool until towards the close, and then the clouds broke away & we had a little sunshine. The evening is clear & at sunset the mercury was down to 39 degrees.
Spent a portion of the morning reading, and then commenced to write a letter to Alfred M. Bailey in reply to one received from him on Tuesday last, and in relation to the visit which he contemplates making us in the course of this month. Was hindered so much that I made but little progress. Elon called and remained with me some time in the forenoon, and in the afternoon Harvey hauled over from Amanda’s a quantity of asparagus roots to which I had to give my attention and made a beginning of transplanting them.
Sunday, 5
Sixth day of Last Quarter. Sun rises at 4-54, and sets at 7-0. Moon rises at 4-10 mor.
Froze a little last night, morning was fair at the opening and calm, and the temperature, at the time of sunrise was down to 28 degrees. The day continued fair until the close. The evening is also fair and quite calm. At the time of sunset the temperature had risen to 44 degrees according to the mercury.
Spent the early morning according to my common custom. After breakfast devoted most of the time to reading until the hour for meeting, and then got ready and proceeded to the meeting house at the Centre where I gave my attendence. Br. Greenlaw was present & delivered a discourse. Came home directly after the meeting was concluded and spent the remainder of the afternoon, or much of it, in the library trying to read, but dozed and slept a part of the time. In the evening finished the letter to A. M. Bailey.
Monday, 6
Seventh day of Last Quarter. Sun rises at 4-53, and sets at 7-1. Moon rises at 4-35.
The morning at the dawn was considerably cloudy, and at
the time of sunrise the mercury was standing at the mark for 34 degrees.
The weather continued cloudy fair through the day but
was not very warm. The evening remains fair, and at sunset the temperature
was shown to be 48 degrees.
In the morning read a short time and immediately after
breakfast carried my letter up to the post office. After my return worked
carry off the rubbish & arranging things on the north side of the house,
and after this was done went to work at my asparagus beds again and spent
the remainder of the forenoon at transplanting the roots. After dinner
went with wife up to Isaac’s and spent the afternoon there with others
on the occasion of Abby’s birth day. While there called at the post office
again and got the Reporter Tribune and the Courier.
Tuesday, 7
New Moon at 8-23 Morn. Sun rises at 4-52, and sets at 7-2. Moon sets.
In the morning the atmosphere was a little smoky, but was otherwise fair. In regard to the temperature, the mercury was down to the freezing point, or 32 degrees, at sunrise, but no frost visible. The day continued fair and smoky, and was also considerably warm. The evening is without clouds but continues very smoky. At sunset the temperature was 60 degrees.
Read a spell in the morning before breakfast, and soon after it went to work in the garden, preparing the ground for asparagus. Spent some time with Elon who called in the forenoon, and then worked till noon. Fremont called and staid till after dinner. In the afternoon spent part of the time reading, and the remainder at transplanting asparagus. Wife went over to Amanda’s in the afternoon, having a chance to ride.
Wednesday, 8
Second day of New Moon. Sun rises at 4-51, and sets at 7-03. Moon Sets at 8-22.
The morning was fair except that it was considerably hazy and smoky. At the time of sunrise the temperature was shown to be 46 degrees by the mercury. The day, until towards night, has been fair, and the atmosphere quite smoky and the weather pretty warm. The evening is considerably cloudy as well as smoky, and at sunset the mercury was up to the mark for 66 degrees.
After reading a spell in the morning went to work in the garden again, and transplanted the remainder of the asparagus that I have on hand, and planted the morning glories and cypress on the bed prepared for it in front of the house. Came in and read and rested a spell and then, concluding to go down to the creek and fish a little while, got ready and started out, returning about 4 o’clock with a few fishes. Spent the remainder of the afternoon about the house, reading some.
Thursday, 9
Third day of New Moon. Sun rises at 4-49, & sets at 7-4. Moon sets at 9-23.
There were some clouds at the dawn of the morning, and a very smoky atmosphere. At sunrise the mercury stood at 46 degrees. The day has been cloudy at intervals through the day. The afternoon has been very windy and there was a few drops of rain. The atmosphere continues very smoky. The evening is of about the same character, and at sunset the mercury was standing at 75 degrees.
Worked in the garden some in the forenoon and repaired the roof of the privy. Towards noon came in and read a spell, and then went up to the Centre and got the Tribune from the post office, came home with it and spent an hour or two reading. Harvey having got some more roots of asparagus, worked a spell in the afternoon transplanting. Wife rode over to Amanda’s to stay with Lucella. Amanda gone to Troy.
Friday, 10
Fourth day of New Moon. Sun rises at 4-48, & sets at 7-5. Moon sets at 10-20.
The morning at dawn was a little cloudy, and very much smoky, and considerably calm and still. At sunrise the mercury was standing at 58 degrees. The forenoon was partially cloudy, and the afternoon was considerably so much of the time. The evening is a little cloudy and very smoky. At sunset the mercury stood at 65 degrees.
Read some in the morning & soon after breakfast went to work in the garden at the asparagus ground, preparing the ground & transplanting the roots. Worked at it very busily until towards noon and then Luman came with a scotchman from Barclay, I went in with them. They staid to dinner & then went up the road & got some cattle to drive back. They brot me the Reporter & the Chronicle from the P.O. I finished planting the asparagus.
Saturday, 11
Fifth day of New Moon. Sun rises at 4-47 & sets at 7-6. Moon sets at 11-13.
The morning like several preceeding, was a little cloudy and very smoky. At sunrise the mercury stood at 47 degrees. The weather through the day continued more or less cloudy and remarkably smoky. The evening is about as the day has been with a brisk south wind since the middle of the day. At sundown, the temperature was 75 degrees.
Worked in and about the garden, at repairing the fence on the north side & raking off the rubbish and improving the ground in that quarter, and also trimmed the rose bushes in front of the house. Elon called a short time. Afternoon went down on the flat and caught a considerable quantity of fish – mostly bullheads – out of the little creek. Towards night, Harvey brot me a letter from the post office, sent by Alfred Bailey.
Sunday, 12
Sixth day of New Moon. Sun rises at 4-46, & sets at 7-7. Moon sets at 11-58.
The morning, like all the mornings of late, was a little cloudy, with a very smoky atmosphere. The night was very warm, and at sunrise the mercury was down to about 56 degrees. The day has been considerably calm, & some cooler. There is much smoke in the atmosphere, and in various directions there are forest fires raging. The weather and the ground are remarkably dry. The evening is more cloudy & at sunset the mercury was standing at 54 degrees.
Spent a considerable portion of the morning reading and at the proper time got ready and went up to the Centre and attended meeting there. There being no other preacher present Br. Levi Taylor occupied the time and spoke to the people. Came directly home from meeting and found wife alone, Harvey & his folks having gone up to Ben Saxton’s. Mary & her little girl came down, from meeting & took tea with us.
Monday, 13
Seventh day of New Moon. Sun rises at 4-45, & sets at 7-8. Moon sets tomorrow morn.
The morning was hazy and smoky but otherwise fair. Temperature was down pretty low again, the mercury at sunrise standing at 31 degrees. The day has been partially cloudy with considerable wind in the afternoon. The evening is also partially cloudy and the weather is quite cool again. At sunset the mercury was standing at 48 degrees.
Read a little while in the morning and after this went to work in the garden at finishing up and smoothing off the work I had begun before at the north end. Spent the forenoon in this way, then ate my dinner and at 12 o’clock started off a fishing. Went up the creek this time, and commencing at the head of Taylor’s mill pond went up as far as the head of the race, with about my usual luck. Called at the post office & got the Tribune on my way up.
Tuesday, 14
Eighth day of New Moon. Sun rises at 4-44, & sets at 7-9. Moon sets at 0-39. morn.
The morning was fair and calm, & there was considerable frost. The mercury was down to about 25 degrees at the time of sunrise. The weather has been through the day of about the same character that it has been for some time past. The drouth is becoming very severe, and forest fires are doing a great amount of damage. The evening is not much cloudy, but is very smoky. At sunset the mercury was at 50 degrees.
Took my spell in the early morning for reading a little and after this went out to work in the garden. Removed with the wheelbarrow a quantity of stones that were up east of the house, and below the west side of the garden, then worked a spell on the fence at the north west corner, and then spent the remainder of the day at making beds and and allies, &c. sitting down occasionally to read a little. Luman called on his way to Barclay.
Wednesday, 15
First Quarter at 11-9 Morn. sun rises at 4-43, and sets at 7-10. Moon sets at 1-14. M.
Considerably cloudy as well as smoky at the opening of the morning, and at the time of sunrise the mercury stood at 32 degrees. The day has been as fair as common, but the weather continues exceedingly dry and very smoky. The evening is quite calm, with the moon shining through the smoke. At sunset the mercury stood at 54 degrees.
In the morning went over to get my tape line at Amanda’s, to use in laying out the garden. Spent some time in measuring and establishing the eastern and western boundaries and then went to work on the eastern side and constructed along the line or border a narrow bed, and next it a broad alley. Tried to read some while resting, but slept most of the time, being very tired. Harvey went with his team to Barclay to get a load of hides for Hobart & Porter.
Thursday, 16
Second day of First Quarter. Sun rises at 4-42, & sets at 7-11. Moon sets at 1-45.
The morning was without clouds and was calm, but there was plenty of smoke. At the time of sunrise the temperature was considerably down again, the mercury standing at 30 degrees. The day was fair and quite cool with a cold northwest wind prevailing. The afternoon and the evening were uncomfortably cold as well as very dry.
Spent some time in the morning reading, and then went to work in the garden again. Spent the forenoon at laying out and making some allies &c, then went up to the post office with Albert and got the Tribune and the Chronicle and also a letter from Mr. Atkins, and one from Delos Rockwell requesting my presence at Troy tomorrow. Worked in the garden till towards night & then started for Troy, going over to Benjamin’s tonight. Amanda being unwell, wife went over there in the afternoon to see her.
Friday, 17
Third day of First Quarter. Sun rises at 4-41 – & sets at 7-12. Moon sets at 2-11.
The morning was fair but very smoky, and was considerably cool after a cold night. Frost was not visible for lack of dew, but ice was found on water. The day was calm, and was some warmer than yesterday. The evening was very smoky, and the temperature at sunset was about 46 degrees.
Took breakfast with Benjamin & Lurenda and then went on to Azor’s, Remained there to dinner and then rode with him and Eliza over to town, called on Delos, and at Gustin’s picture gallery, where I bought nine more stereoscopic views, and finally started for home. Came on as far as Burton’s where I called and took supper, & on my way from there called at the Post Office and got the Reporter. Arrived home a little after sundown, and was pretty tired, of course.
Saturday, 18
Fourth day of first Quarter. Sun rises at 4-40 & sets at 7-13. Moon sets at 2-36.
The morning was calm and cloudy and smoky at the dawn, and the temperature was 33 degrees at sunrise, so there was no frost. The day has been tolerably warm, and with a brisk south wind which commenced in the morning. The forenoon was partially fair, and the afternoon quite cloudy with a few drops of rain. The evening is cloudy and more calm, & at sunset the temperature was 58 degrees.
Spent a considerable portion of the morning and forenoon at tinkering and setting up the old clock, it having been taken down for the purpose of house cleaning. After this went to work at making some beds for poesies in the front door yard, and planting them with garden ladies and poesy peas, at which the remainder of the day was spent. Luman came in the afternoon and staid till night & then went up to Valentine’s and perhaps to Troy. Harvey brot the Courier from P.O.
Sunday, 19
Fifth day of First Quarter, Sun rises at 4-39, & sets at 7-14, Moon sets at 1-45
The morning was cloudy at the opening, with rain falling, and wind from the south east. At sun rise the mercury was at 54 degrees. The forenoon was cloudy and a little rainy but in the afternoon the wind changed back to the west, the weather became cooler, and the clouds were partially broken. The evening is considerably cloudy, and at sunset the mercury was stnading at the mark for 58 degrees.
Attended to my dayly bath in the early morning as usual, and after breakfast devoted an hour or two to reading. At the proper time made preparation and went up to the Centre and attended meeting there. Br. Greenlaw was present according to appointment, and delivered a discourse. After the close came immediately home and spent the remainder of the day with the family.
Monday, 20
Sixth day of First Quarter. Sun rises at 4-39, & sets at 1-15. Moon sets at 2-11.
The morning at dawn was partially fair, and calm, and at the time of sunrise the mercury stood at the mark for 46 degrees. As the morning advanced a pretty brisk wind came up from the west, which was followed by clouds that occasionally sprinkled a little rain. The evening is a little cloudy and at sunset the mercury was standing at 50 degrees.
In the morning very soon after breakfast, went to work in the garden at laying it out and making allies, so as to form a plat of diamond shape in the centre, which was accomplished in the forenoon. Afternoon finished the preparation and planted the diamond with popcorn. After this went up to the post office and got the Tribune After reading the Tribune a spell I tinkered about the garden a little more. Luman called & took dinner being on his way to Barclay.
Tuesday, 21
Seventh day of First Quarter. Sun rises at 4-38, & sets at 7-16. Moon sets at 3-54.
The sun rose clear in the morning but there were heavy clouds coming up from the west which soon enveloped it. The temperature was 46 degrees. The clouds soon dissipated and the day was mostly fair. The evening was also fair and was moderately warm.
After reading a spell in the morning went to work in the garden and laid out some ground for beans and peas, and while I was engaged at planting them Daniel Bush came. He staid to dinner, hired Harvey’s team, and then I rode with him, first over to Valiera’s in Smithfield where he he looked at her farm and learned her circumstances, and then we started away, driving back to Burlington and down Sugar Creek to Towanda & staid at the Ward House over night. Went in the evening to see Mr. Codding concerning the purchase and the title of Valiera’s land.
Wednesday, 22
Full Moon at 6-12 Even. Sun rises at 4-37, and sets at
7-17. Moon sets at rises –
The morning was fair and was moderately warm, but it became considerably cloudy before noon. There were thunder clouds in the afternoon, but there was nothing more than a sprinkling of rain until night. There is a moderate rain in progress in the evening, and at sunset the mercury stood at 60 degrees.
Arose pretty early in the morning and took a walk about town alone. Returning, took my breakfast and then went over to Codding & Russell’s store and then went with Daniel and Mr. Codding to the Prothonotary’s office and then Daniel having concluded to go on the next train to Athens, I took my leave of him, had the team hitched up, & at 20 minutes past 8 started, with it for home, arriving at five minutes past 11. Afternoon worked in the garden, and planted the cucumber seed and some watermelon seed.
Thursday, 23
Second day of Full Moon. Sun rises at 4-36, & sets at 7-18. Moon rises at 8-27.
The morning remained cloudy after a night of refreshing rain. The temperature at the time of sunrising was 56 degrees. There was a little sunshine in the forenoon, but most of the day was cloudy and there were several little dashes of rain. The evening is cloudy and the mercury at sunset was at 58 degrees.
After breakfast went to work in the garden and after preparing the ground, planted the squashes, both the summer and winter, and after this spent some time reading before dinner, Harvey having brought the Tribune & the Reporter from the post office. After dinner went up to Mr. Bunyan’s to engage his platform waggon to use during the visit of our Connecticut friends. Brot home some hickory withes and did something towards making a garden fence, besides reading the papers.
Friday, 24
Third day of Full Moon. Sun rises at 4-36, & sets at 7-19. Moon rises at 9-40.
The morning was a little foggy but otherwise was mostly fair. At sunrise the temperature was 44 degrees. The day was mostly fair, and was also considerably warm. There was a light shower in the middle of the day, and in the evening another rain began to fall about bed time.
In the morning worked a little while in the garden, and arranged some things in the library, and then with wife set off for Troy, riding with Harvey. Stopped at Azor’s to dinner, and rode down to Samuel’s in the village, Eliza going with us. Did a little shopping & at night went to the depot to watch for for the arrival of A. M. Bailey & his party from Connecticut. They did not arrive on this train, so I returned to Samuel’s and, with wife, remained over night intending to wait on the trains tomorrow. Eliza returned home.
Saturday, 25
Fourth day of Full Moon. Sun rises at 4-35, & sets at 7-20. Moon rises at 10-44.
A very fine refreshing rain in the course of the night and the morning was partially fair. The day was very pleasant and was moderately warm. The There are some light clouds in the evening and an exhibition of the Aurora Borealis in the north west.
Arose in good season in the morning and took a stroll around the town, and at the proper time went to the depot to meet the morning train from the north, but did not meet my friends. Returned to Samuel’s to breakfast, and after remaining a spell at the house went out again, calling at several places, and finally going to the depot to meet the Niagra express, I found my friend Bailey & his party & took them in Long’s bus to Sam’s where we had dinner. Azor came in the afternoon with his team & took us all to his house where we remained. In the evening Luman and Dr. Hillis came in, making only a short stay.
Sunday, 26
Fifth day of Full Moon. Sun rises at 4-34, and sets at 7-20. Moon rises at 11-37.
The morning was quite fair at the opening but the weather was a little cool after the auroral display of last night. The day was mostly fair and was temperately warm. The evening is nearly free from clouds with another display of northern lights which are quite bright.
Spent the morning at Azor’s with our company until nearly meeting time, and then walked over to the Baptist meeting in the village with Alfred, Azor taking the women in his wagon, wife remaining at the house. Benjamin attended the meeting also, leaving Lurenda with her ma at Azor’s, Mr. Bailey and I riding back with Benjamin. We stopped there till night, Dr. Hillis and Jerusha calling there before we left. Wife and Rhoda and I rode home, and tarried with Benjamin and Lurenda, leaving Mr. Bailey and his wife and two little girls, with their baggage, to be brought down there tomorrow by Azor and Eliza.
Monday, 27
Sixth day of Full Moon. Sun rises at 4-33, & sets at 7-21.
The morning was cool and was also quite cloudy with southerly wind, and in the course of the forenoon there was a little rain. In the afternoon there was a very heavy thunder shower, attended with considerable hail. At sunset the mercury was 50 degrees and there was more rain in the course of the night.
We spent the morning with Benjamin and Lurenda, and with Rhoda until after breakfast, and then Azor and Eliza came down bringing Alfred and his wife and children. After dinner Azor brought us all over home, leaving Eliza at Benjamin’s and he immediately returning. After supper I went up to the post office and got the Tribune. Went out at night & set some tomatoe plants. There was a very beautiful rainbow and gorgeous sunsetting.
Tuesday, 28
Seventh day of Full Moon. Sun rises at 4-33, & sets at 7-22. Moon rises at 0-20, morn.
The morning opened cloudy and there was a little rain before noon. At sunrise the temperature was 30 degrees. The afternoon was considerably fair but there were more clouds in the evening. At sundown the mercury was at 48 degrees.
Finished setting out the tomato plants in the morning and then devoted the remainder of the day to visiting, here at home. Elon made two calls in the course of the day, and also one in the evening. In the afternoon, at the desire of our visitors, we went over the creek and gathered some wintergreen berries, taking along the fishing rod & catching a few small fish. Alfred went up to the post office where he found two letters from his home, directed to my care. Harvey went to Barclay for Lincoln. Luman called on his way to Barclay.
Wednesday, 29
Last Quarter at 9-17 Morn. Sun rises at 4-32, and sets at 7-23. Moon rises at 0-54, morn.
The morning opened fair or nearly so, and at the time of sunrise the mercury was standing at 48 degrees. The day passed off with very few clouds and was only temperately warm. The evening is quite fair, and at sunset the temperature was 52.
After attending to the first business of the morning, met the visitors at the breakfast table, and as soon as the women could get ready afterward we all rode over to Amanda’s where we spent the forenoon. After dinner Harvey came took us all back to Elon’s except Lizzie where we spent the afternoon. At night we all returned to our quarters after a trial of our skill at shooting with a rifle. Amanda came over & staid over night, & Robert & Lucie called in the evening.
Thursday, 30
Second day of Last Quarter. Sun rises at 4-32, & sets at 7-23. Moon rises at 1-23.
The morning was partially cloudy and at the time of the rising of the sun the temperature was down to 36 degrees. The sun appeared a few minutes in the middle of the day but the afternoon was cloudy and there was some rain. The evening is cloudy and wet, and at sunset the mercury stood at 51 degrees.
Pretty soon after breakfast in the morning Harvey harnessed his horses to Mr. Bunyan’s wagon – after he and Alfred had done some repairing – and I, taking the lines, drove it with wife & all our company over to Harry’s, returning at two o’clock in the afternoon, and soon after this Levi Taylor and his wife came down for an afternoon visit, and Julius also was here. After the visit closed Alfred & I rode with Harvey up to the Centre, stopping at the post office where I got the Tribune and the Chronicle, and Alfred got 4 letters from his home in Connecticut.
Friday, 31
Third day of Last Quarter. Sun rises at 4-31, & sets at 7-24. Moon rises at 1-49.
The morning was a little cloudy and the temperature at sunrise was 46 degrees. The day has been mostly fair with a cool, brisk wind from the west. The evening is quite fair, and at sunset the mercury stood at 50 degrees.
Transplanted some lettuce in the garden after breakfast in the morning, and about 9 o’clock Harvey took us all up to the Centre except Lizzie who remained at home. We called first on aunt Polly, then visited the grave yard, then made a call at L. D. Taylor’s and received from the post office the Reporter and a letter from Daniel Bush, then we called a little while on Franklin, after which we went to Levi’s where we spent the remainder of the afternoon, or until Harvey came after us at a little after 5 o’clock, when our visitors returned with us and spent the night.
June
Saturday, 1
Fourth day of Last Quarter. Sun rises at 4-30, & sets at 7-24. Moon rises at 2-14.
The morning was quite calm and fair, and at sunrise the mercury had descended to 34 degrees. The forenoon continued fair but the afternoon was quite cloudy and there was a little rain towards night. The evening is quite cloudy too with a fair prospect of more rain in the course of the night. At sunset the mercury was at 53 degrees.
Started soon after breakfast wife and our company in Harvey’s – Bunyan’s – waggon, and drove over to Elisha Bailey’s – taking Elon along – and after making a call of a couple of hours, returned as far as Julius’ where we spent the remainder of the forenoon. In the afternoon we all according to previous arrangement, went to Robert’s, where Harry & his wife, Julius & his wife, Jefferson & his wife, Miller & his wife, Elon & Alva, and the wives of Norman and O’Meara, were also present. Harvey came for us at night. Alfred & Rhoda went to the Templar’s lodge.
Sunday, 2
Fifth day of Last Quarter. Sun rises at 4-30, & sets at 7-24. Moon rises at 2-3??.
The morning was only partially cloudy and the night passed off without any more rain. At sunrising the the mercury stood at 40 degrees. The day continued fair and was considerably warm. The evening is clear & bright and at sunset the mercury stood at 53 degrees.
In the morning we all made preparation for meeting and Harvey going up with the team, we all rode up to the Centre and attended the meeting except Lizzie who remained with her children. Br. Greenlaw preached. Azor & Eliza were there, and after meeting were invited by Luman Taylor to go with the rest of our compnay to his house where we took tea. At 4 o’clock Azor & Eliza returned to their home and Harvey coming for us, we rode back with him. Luman came towards night from Barclay and tarried, and in the evening Ezra Bailey & his wife made a call.
Monday, 3
Sixth day of Last Quarter. Sun rises at 4-30 & sets at 7-26. Moon rises at 3-5.
The morning was fair, pretty cool, and with a partial frost. At sunrise the temperature was shown by the mercury to be down to 30 degrees. The day continued fair and was tolerably warm. The evening also remained fair, and at the time of sunset the mercury stood at the mark for 58 degrees.
Attended to the first business of the morning as usual, and as soon after breakfast as we could get ready, I started off for Leroy with wife and our company, driving Harvey’s team, and taking Elon along. Called first at Electa’s where we staid till nearly noon and then we drove up to Harvey’s where we put out the team and stopped for a general visit. There was a pretty large company of the Holcomb family assembled there to meet our Connecticut friends. Towards night we hitched up and started for home, arriving in good season. Went up to the store to make a purchase for Rhoda. Found the Tribune & Courier.
Tuesday, 4
Seventh day of Last Quarter. Sun rises at 4-30, and sets at 7-26. Moon rises at 3-34, Morn.
The morning at the opening was considerably cloudy, especially in the west. At the time of sunrise the mercury was only down to 54 degrees. The forenoon was a little rainy and the afternoon was considerably so, and the weather was some colder. In the evening the clouds were some broken but did not clear off.
Got ready in the morning and started for Barclay with wife, Mr. Bunyan & our company, driving Harvey’s team. Azor went with his team & took Amanda & Eliza along, and Levi Taylor went up also with his wife. We stopped with Dr. Hillis. Benjamin & Lurenda came up soon after. Went out in the afternoon to view the novelties, & finally, after Levi & his wife had departed for their home, the remainder of our company with Luman and the doctor, having had a mule train provided for our accommodation, rode into the mine about one mile from the entrance. The most of our company tarried with Dr. Hillis. and Luman.
Wednesday, 5
New Moon 1-29, Even. Sun rises at 4-29, and sets at 7-27. Moon Sets.
The night was quite rainy and windy and so was the morning,
which continued at intervals until the middle of the day. The afternoon
was cloudy, but was towards night became partially fair.
The evening was quite fair and at the time of sun setting the temperature
was 55 degrees.
We remained with our friends in the village of Barclay through the early morning, the most of us taking breakfast with the doctor and Jerusha, made several calls, and finally, – Benjamin and Azor concluding to start for home with their folks – we had our team harnessed and went down to Percival’s at the foot of the plane where we made a visit. In the afternoon we started for home Alfred & I going up the plane on the cars, & Bunyan driving the team. We sat for a picture in our wagon at Barclay, & arrived home before sundown. Luman came down from Barclay and tarried with us over night.
Thursday, 6
Second day of New Moon. Sun rises at 4-29, & sets at 7-28. Moon rises at 8-12.
The morning was very fair and fine, and at sunrise the temperature was about 45 degrees. The weather continued fair all the day through and was temperately warm, but at night it became cloudy and continued so through the evening.
Our company spent the forenoon with us, making preparation to start on their journey to their homes. After dinner I started with them for Azor’s, taking wife and Albert along, and having Harvey’s team. We stopped at Azor’s for the night, according to previous arrangement, but I went with Alfred over to town, taking his baggage to the depot, where he bought his tickets for tomorrow and had his trunks checked for Elmira to be sent along by the first train. We made a call at the post office where he found a letter, called on Sara a moment to let her see Albert who was with us, and then returned to Azor’s & put out the horses.
Friday, 7
Third day of New Moon. Sun rises at 4-29, & sets at 7-28. Moon rises at 9-7.
The night was warm, the morning cloudy, and before 9 o’clock the rain began to fall. The remainder of the forenoon and a considerable portion of the afternoon were quite rainy, and the weather remained cloudy till night, continuing thro the evening. At the time of sunset the mercury was standing at 59 degrees.
Pretty soon after breakfast we had the team hitched up and we all started for town, Azor & Eliza, going with us. He and I walked over, Mr. Bailey driving the waggon. We called at Samuel’s, & Mrs. Bailey and Eliza went out and did some shopping. At the proper time we proceeded to the depot, but the train being late, we had to wait there two hours, giving our friends the parting hand at noon. We returned to Azor’s to dinner, and after the rain had ceased we started for home, arriving a little before night. Made up a fire in the library & spent the remainder of the time reading and chatting with Mr. Gilman
Saturday, 8
Fourth day of the New Moon. Sun rises at 4-29, & sets at 7-29. Moon Sets at 9-56.
Rained some in the latter part of the night. The morning was partially cloudy at the opening and the temperature was 58 degrees at sunrise. The forenoon remained partially cloudy but the afternoon was more fair. The weather continues moderately warm. The evening is more cloudy, and at sunset the temperature was 65 degrees according to the mercury.
Spent the early morning in the usual way, and after breakfast, concluding to go a fishing, went down to the creek and spent the remainder of the forenoon in that manner but with poor success. In the afternoon prepared and hung the picture of the late Alfred Bailey & his wife, which was presented to us by their son, A. M. Bailey, and spent the remainder of the time reading and dozing and chatting with the family. Amanda came over and spent the afternoon with us. Harvey went away last night a fishing, returning today.
Sunday, 9
Fifth day of the New Moon. Sun rises at 4-28, & sets at 7-30. Moon rises? at 10-38.
The morning at dawn was a little cloudy and at sunrise the mercury was standing at 50 degrees. The forenoon was mostly fair and the afternoon was a little showry around us, but with only a sprinkling here. The weather has been pretty warm and at sunset the mercury was up to 67 degrees. The evening is considerably cloudy.
Read a spell in the morning, & then on going into the garden discovered that the yellow bugs had appeared in very large numbers and were rapidly destroying the squashes and other vines. Spent some time in killing them, and taking other measures to prevent their ravages. At the proper time got ready and attended the meeting at the Centre. Br. Levi Taylor conducted the meeting, delivering a discourse. Came immediately home after the conclusion, and spent a considerable portion of the afternoon reading. Amanda was here to tea.
Monday, 10
Sixth day of New Moon. Sun rises at 4-28, & sets at 7-30. Moon sets at 11-14.
The morning was very cloudy and calm with a fine rain in progress. At the time of sunrise the mercury was standing at 66 degrees. Cleared off before noon and the remainder of the day was mostly fair until nearly night and then there was another very fine shower. At sunset the mercury was standing at 57 degrees. The evening is partially fair.
Went into the garden after the rain and pulled some weeds out of the asparagus. Afternoon went up to the post office and got the Tribune and the last week’s Courier and after making a call at Mr. Bruce’s, came home and spent some time reading. After this went to hoeing and weeding the new strawberry bed and worked till the shower came on. Luman & Charley were here to dinner & then went back to Barclay with some cattle.
Tuesday, 11
Seventh day of New Moon. Sun rises at 4-28, & sets at 7-31. Moon sets at 11-46.
There were some clouds in the morning, and the weather a little cooler. At sunrise the mercury stood at 55 degrees. The clouds passed away and the day was quite fair. The weather is warmer again, and at sunset the temperature was 66 degrees. The evening is fair and pleasant.
After breakfast spent some time in the garden weeding the asparagus, and then finding that the yellow bugs were rapidly destroying the cucumbers and other vines, went to work again at fighting them, and doing what I could to stop their mischief. In the middle of the day finished hoeing and weeding the lower strawberry bed, and in the afternoon hoed the popcorn and tomatoes, and spent the remainder of the time preparing a plat of ground for cabbage which occupied my time till dark. In the forenoon A. M. Fleming called & paid $79.44 the amt. of his note which Luman left here.
Wednesday, 12
Eighth day of New Moon. Sun rises at 4-28, & sets at 7-31. Moon does not set today.
The morning opened with a few scattering clouds only and the temperature at the time of sunrise was was 60 degrees. The forenoon was fair and there were showers in the afternoon one of which was quite copious and was remarkable on account of the heavy lightning and thunder that attended it. The evening is mostly fair and the temperature was 64 degrees at sunset.
Resumed my labor in the garden immediately after breakfast and finished the preparation of the cabbage ground and also prepared a bed for beets. Spent some time pulling weeds out of the old strawberry bed, and had another spell at weeding the asparagus. After the shower transplanted sixty cabbage plants. Spent some time in the house reading and resting, being pretty lame on account of my day’s work yesterday. Harvey brought last week’s Chronicle.
Thursday, 13
Ninth day of New Moon. Sun rises at 4-28, & sets at 7-32. Moon sets at 0-13, morn.
The morning was clear and bright at the dawn and the temperature, after the heavy thunder of yesterday, a little lower. At sunrise the mercury stood at 50 degrees. The weather has been fair except an hour or two in the middle of the day, and also quite warm. At sunset the mercury stood at 70 degrees. The evening is quite cloudy as well as warm, and at bed time rain is falling.
Suspended my work in the garden today and concluded to go a fishing. Got ready after breakfast and commencing here at home followed the creek down to John Vroman’s pasture and then returned with a pretty fair mess of fish. Ate my dinner and went up to the post office and got the Tribune and the Chronicle, and a letter from A. M. Bailey, announcing his safe return home. Spent the remainder of the afternoon in the house, reading, and resting and some of the time sleeping.
Friday, 14
First Quarter at 2-23 Morn. Sun rises at 4-28, and sets at 7-32. Moon 0-38 Morn.
The morning is quite cloudy and the weather continues warm. At the time of sunrise the temperature was 66 degrees. Continued cloudy through the day, and as the morning advanced a moderate rain began to fall which continued till late in the afternoon and left the weather cooler. At sunset the mercury stood at 60 degrees, and the evening was partially fair.
Spent some time in the morning after reading a spell, at repairing my fishing rod, and after putting it in good order, laid it up and went to work at pulling weeds out of the old strawberry bed and after this I worked a spell at the asparagus bed. After the rain had ceased towards night, went into the garden again and hoed the peas & set a few brush. After this got ready and went up to the post office and got the Reporter and then attended the commencement of the quarterly meeting at which Br. Greenlaw and Br. Churchill spoke.
Saturday, 15
Second day of First Quarter. Sun rises at 4-41 and sets at 7-29. Moon sets at 1-2 Morn.
The morning was quite fair and the weather considerably cooler. At sunrise the temperature was down to 46 degrees. the day was mostly fair but became cloudy towards the close. The weather has become quite warm again but the temperature was not observed. The evening is cloudy.
Went to work at weeding the old strawberry bed after breakfast and completed it in season to get ready and go up to the meeting. Br. Delmot delivered the morning discourse. After meeting Br. Wilson came home with me to dinner & spent the afternoon with me. At night we hitched up his buggy again and drove up to the evening meeting, calling at the post office where I found the Tribune of yesterday’s date, and the Courier. Br. Sanders preached this evening to a pretty large audience. Br. Wilson returned with me again, and tarried with us over night.
Sunday, 16
Third day of First Quarter. Sun rises at 7-28, & sets at 4-33. Moon sets at 1-27.
The morning was considerably cloudy and at about the time of sunrise the mercury was standing at 52 degrees. The day became and continued until nearly night, and was only moderately warm. The evening, having become cloudy again, retains about the same temperature, and at bed time it is raining a little.
At the hour for meeting in the morning Br. Wilson hitched up his mare to the buggy and I rode up to the meetinghouse with him and after hearing speeches from several brethren, Br. Delmot delivered a discourse to a very large audience. At the conclusion of the exercises, Benjamin & Lurenda with Mr. Loomis & Mary’s mother, and Azor & Eliza with Lucella & Fremont came down with me, & Amanda & Luman were here. After tea we went up to afternoon meeting & heard Br. Sanders, & I then rode to Troy with Azor.
Monday, 17
Fourth day of First Quarter. Sun rises at 4-28, & sets at 7-33. Moon sets at 1-53.
There was not much rain in the night and the morning opened fair and moderately warm. The weather continued fair through the day and was very warm in the afternoon but grew more temperate towards night. The evening is fair and at sunset the temperature was 65 degrees.
Took breakfast at Azor’s and pretty soon afterward walked over to the village, calling first at Grant’s shop where I waited to have my watch repaired. After this called at Delos’ office and spent some time, and then, after going into the shop again, called at Samuel’s, and spending a little time there I took dinner with him and soon after started on foot for home. Took it quite moderately on account of the heat, and arriving at Burton’s called there and spent some time, and after tea rode with him to the Centre and then came on home. Valentine called at night.
Tuesday, 18
Fifth day of First Quarter. Sun rises at 4-28, & sets at 7-33. Moon sets at 2-21.
The morning opened very fair and pleasant, and with the weather a little cooler, the temperature at sunrise being down to 47 degrees. The day continued fair and became quite warm, especially in the afternoon. The evening is also fair and at the time of sunset the temperature was up to 67 degrees.
Went into the garden before breakfast and worked a spell at killing the yellow bugs that seem determined to destroy all our winter squashes. After breakfast worked a little while at weeding asparagus and then prepared & set a few more brush for the peas. Hoed the watermelons and the summer squashes. After dinner went to work at the plat of ground reserved for Swedish turnips; hoing it over and raking off the surface smoothly, and made it ready for planting after it is marked.
Wednesday, 19
Sixth day of First Quarter. Sun rises at 4-28, & sets at 7-34. Moon sets at 2-56.
Another fair, fine morning, with a heavy dew, and the temperature at the time of sunrise down to 50 degrees according to the mercury. The day continued fair and was also very warm. The evening is a little cloudy & continues warm. The mercury at the time of sunset was standing at the mark for 74 degrees.
Worked a spell in the garden before breakfast, hunting and killing yellow bugs, and after breakfast went to work at the turnip ground, and after marking it out, commenced planting the seed, which, by pretty close application I finished before dinner. Rested an hour or two in the afternoon, and then recommenced work in the garden, hoing out the winter squashes, or what there is left of them, and hoing out some of the allies, and then went down to the creek & fished an hour or two. Luman came in the evening and went to bed.
Thursday, 20
Seventh day of First Quarter. Sun rises at 4-28, and sets at 7-34. Moon Rises.
The morning was partially cloudy at the beginning and the temperature was up to 64 degrees at the time of sun rising. The morning clouds were soon out of the way and the day was fair & very hot, the mercury coming up to 99 degrees in the middle of the day or early in the afternoon. The evening is a little hazy, and at sunset the mercury rested at 77 degrees.
Had a spell of killing bugs again this morning and after breakfast set out about 60 cabbage plants. sowed some more cabbage seed, and on account of the heat did not work in the middle of the day. Towards night hoed some in the garden and got some brush and finished bushing the peas. Mary called towards night, and wife rode home with her. Luman departed soon after breakfast. Went to P.O. & got the Tribune, & the Chronicle. Called on Lydia.
Friday, 21
Full Moon at 2-2. Morn. Sun rises at 4-28, and sets at 7-34. Moon rises at 8-26.
The weather was fair and warm when the morning dawned, the temperature being 62 degrees at the rising of the sun. The day was fair till afternoon and very hot, the mercury being up to 96 degrees & remaining there several hours. At 4 p.m. a heavy thunder shower came on & is still in progress in the evening, raining copiously most of the time. At the time of sunset the mercury was standing at 67 degrees.
Did not go into the garden till after breakfast in the morning, and then after having a fight with the bugs took my hoe & went to work. Hoed the cucumbers, & the popcorn, and the peas, and the beans, and then went to hoing out the alleys generally. Took a recess of two or three hours in the middle of the day, & then worked till the shower came on. Spent the remainder of the afternoon in the house. Luman came in the night & departed this morning. Burton brot wife home at night.
Saturday, 22
Second day of Full Moon. Sun rises at 4-28, & sets at 7-34. Moon rises at 9-27.
The morning was quite cloudy at the first, and at the time of sunrise the temperature was down to 54 degrees, and soon after the clouds dispersed so that the day became fair. The weather is a little more temperate but continues warm. The evening is fair, and at the time of sunsetting the mercury rested at 66 degrees.
In the morning, after breakfast went into the garden and spent some time pulling weeds from the asparagus beds. Getting tired of this business I concluded to go a fishing, and, accordingly, made the necessary preparations and started out, but not succeeding very well did not go any farther than down into Frank Taylor’s meadow. After my return went with Albert up to the post office and got the Reporter and the Courier, and spent the remainder of the day in the house reading them and resting.
Sunday, 23
Third day of Full Moon. Sun rises at 4-28, & sets at 7-34. Moon rises at 10-16.
The morning was fair and bright at the dawning, giving promise of a pleasant day. The temperature was a little lower than of late it being only about 45 degrees at sunrise. The continued fair and was quite warm, but did not quite come up to 90. The evening is cloudy & at sunset the mercury at 67.
Found Samuel here upon coming out in the morning, he having been sent for on Lizzie’s account she being sick. He remained through the day. Started for meeting pretty early, and called at Isaac’s on the way. He attended with me. The meeting was conducted by Br. Levi Taylor, who delivered a discourse. Returned home immediately after the close. In the afternoon Harvey drove up to Burton’s and brought Mary’s mother home with him to help about the work, and a little after sundown Lizzie had a daughter born and all appear to be doing well.
Monday, 24
Fourth day of Full Moon. Sun rises at 4-28, & sets at 7-25. Moon rises at 10.54.
The morning opened cloudy and rainy, and the mercury at sunrise was standing at 63 degrees. The rain continued through the day causing a flood in the streams. The evening is also quite rainy. At the time of sunset the mercury was up to 64 degrees.
Spent the morning and the forenoon reading and lounging about the house. Concluding that I would try to write a letter to Mr. Atkins, I went at it after dinner and spent a considerable portion of the time during the afternoon at the writing table. Did not finish the letter and the copy until bedtime in the evening. Sam, having staid at O’Meara’s last night, called here in the morning, on account of the rain remained with us through the day or until nearly night. Did not go or send to the post office today.
Tuesday, 25
Fifth day of Full Moon. Sun rises at 4-29, & sets at 7-35. Moon rises at 11-26.
The night was rainy and it was raining moderately in the morning. At the time of the sunrising the mercury stood at 61 degrees. The rain continued to fall almost incessantly through the day, keeping up the freshet in the streams. The evening too is rainy, and the mercury at sunset was up to 64 degrees.
Found time in the morning to go up to the post office and return before breakfast. Carried up and delivered my letter to Mr. Atkins, and found the Tribune in my box which I brought home. Spent some time after breakfast reading the Tribune, and then, giving it up to Mr. Gilman went to work at writing a letter to Lettie Lane at Jersey Shore. Spent most of the time at the writing table until the letter was finished and copied and ready for delivery. Amanda and Lelia were here today & staid over night. Harvey brought them over Had no other company except Mr. Gilman.
Wednesday, 26
Sixth day of Full Moon. Sun rises at 4-30, and sets at 7-35. Moon rises at 11-53.
Another rainy night, followed by a rainy without any signs of fair weather appearing. At the time of sunrise the mercury stood at 61 degrees. The rain abated in the course of the forenoon but the clouds remained through the day. The evening is partially fair at bed time and at sunset the mercury stood at 68 degrees.
After attending to the preliminary matters of the morning, and concluding to continue the business of letter writing until the list of correspondents are all served, went to work at a letter to A. M. Bailey of Middlefield Conn. as next in order, and and finished and copied it in the course of the day. Took several opportunities in the course of the day to read a little, and in the afternoon went out and picked a mess of strawberries from the beds which we for supper. In the evening wrote until a late hour before retiring.
Thursday, 27
Last Quarter at 4-31 Even. Sun rises at 4-30, and sets at 7-35. Moon Morn.
The morning at the opening was considerably cloudy but without rain, and at sunrise the temperature was 63 degrees. The clouds cleared away and the day has been very fair and fine. The evening is a little cloudy and quite warm. At sunset the mercury was up to 75 degrees.
Directly after breakfast took my seat at the writing table and continued a letter to Mrs. Mary Andrus which was begun last evening. After completing and copying it, commenced writing one to Mrs. Lydia Caywood, and having finished it and the copy before night, wrote a short one to Julius Hall of Stockbridge Mass., inclosing one dollar, and ordering some stereoscopic views of Monument Mountain, & copied it also. After this took five letters up to the post office and delivered them to be mailed tomorrow morning. Luman was here in the middle of the day, and Lathan Andrus and his wife called in the afternoon.
Friday, 28
Second day of Last Quarter. Sun rises at 4-1, & sets at 7-35. Moon rises at 0-19, morn.
The morning was mostly fair at the dawn and the temperature at the time of sunrise was up to 66 degrees. The day has been fair and warm. There were some shower clouds passing around us, but there were was no rain here except a few drops. The evening is more cloudy, and with stronger indications of rain. At sunset the mercury was standing at 76 degrees.
Spent the morning in the house till after breakfast, then went into the garden and pulled weeds a spell from the asparagus beds, then went to the lower strawberry bed and picked off the fruit, pulled the weeds and trimed the plants, then pulled weeds from the poesy beds, and then went up to the Centre and stopped at Bruces until the mail arrived, then from the post office got the Reporter & the Chronicle & brot them home & read them, working in the garden again towards night.
Saturday, 29
Third day of Last Quarter. Sun rises at 4-31, & sets at 7-35. Moon rises at 0-46.
Night passed off without rain and the morning fair. At the time of sunrise the mercury was standing at 6 degrees. the day continued fair until afternoon and then there were thunder clouds passing around us. There was no rain here of any consequence. The weather was quite warm. The evening was fair and at sunset the temperature was 72 degrees.
Principal employment was in the garden. Being disappointed in the cabbag line, having failed to raise any plants and to procure but few, divided the cabbage plat, working over a part of it and planting it to turnips. Besides this did some other work in the garden in the forenoon, in the line of hoing. Towards noon concluded to go a fishing but Br. Champney coming at that time I gave it up helped him put out his horse and feed it and spent the afternoon with him. Lincoln called when I was out and left some pictures. Fremont was here to tea. Br. Champney staid over.
Sunday, 30
Fourth day of Last Quarter. Sun rises at 4-31, & sets at 7-35. Moon rises at 1-9.
The morning was fair and the weather was a little cooler. At the time of sunrise the mercury was down to 58 degrees. The day has been fair and the latter part of it was very warm, the mercury at five o’clock being up to 91 degrees. At sunset the temperature was down to 74 degrees. The evening is fair.
Spent the early morning in the usual manner, and on leaving my room found Br. Champney up and waiting. After breakfast we read some and conversed until near the meeting hour, and then walked up to the meeting house, calling at Isaac’s on the way, but he and Abby were not at home. Br. Greenlaw was in attendence and He was assisted in cunducting the exercises by Br. Champney. At the close Br. Champney returned with me and tarried over again.
July
Monday, 1
Fifth day of Last Quarter. Sun rises at 4-32, & sets at 7-35. Moon rises at 1-39, M.
The morning was fair and the temperature at the time of sunrising was 64 degrees. The day continued fair all the way through except some thunder clouds in the afternoon, with thunder in the distance. The day was very warm. At sunset the mercury was at 73 degrees and the evening is fair and continues very warm.
Concluded in the morning to go a fishing, and after breakfast, made preparation and started off up the creek, having first assisted Br. Champney to get started on his way to Wyoming and Luzerne co.’s pedling medicines. Went up as far as Davis’ west line and fished down into the woods towards the tannery. Took a considerable number of small fish and then, a little afternoon, made my way towards home, being very tired. Called at the post office on the way and got the Tribune, and after arriving at home spent the remainder of the day reading the paper and trying to make myself comfortable, being considerably oppressed by the heat. Luman came in the evening and staid over.
Tuesday, 2
Sixth day of Last Quarter. Sun rises at 4-32, & sets at 7-35. Moon rises at 2-8.
The morning was very fair and pleasant, and the mercury, at the time of sunrise, indicated a temperature of 67 degrees. The forenon was fair and very warm. There were thunder clouds in the afternoon with showers around us, having one smart little dash here. The mercury at sunset was up to about 80 degrees and the evening is fair and warm.
Spent the early morning in the house, & after breakfast went to work in the garden hoing the tomatoes and hoing out the front ally, & the at the instance of wife went to work at fixing a conductor for the water back of the house, producing a spout, for the accommodation of the household, & then having found a little lobster, boiled it and laid it up to dry in order to sent it to Alfred Bailey. Rested a spell in the afternoon, and then went to pulling weeds & hoing in the garden again. Luman left after breakfast to drive some cattle to B.
Wednesday, 3
Seventh day of Last Quarter. Sun rises at 4-33, & sets at 7-34. Moon rises at 2-44.
The morning dawned remarkably clear and the weather was considerably more temperate. At the time of sunrise the mercury stood at 62 degrees. Hottest day of the season, the mercury being up to 100 degrees at noon. The forenoon was fair, and in the afternoon there were thunder clouds and thunder in the distance, but there was no rain here. The temperature at sundown was 76 degrees and the evening is fair.
Remained at home today and the principal business was working in the garden. Hoed out the allies raked and carried off the stones and put them in order, hoed the melons and the squashes and the popcorn, and towards night went to work in the door yard in front of the house, mowing and raking off the grass and transplanting into the poesy beds some china asters that had been grown in a pan. Could not work all the time on account of the extreme heat, and in the intervals of not tried to read some.
Thursday, 4
Eighth day of Last Quarter. Sun rises at 4-33, & sets at 7-34. Moon rises at 3-26.
The morning was mostly fair at the dawn, there being a few clouds around the horizon only. At sunrise the mercury was at 73 degrees. There were clouds and sunshine at intervals through the day, with distant thunder occasionally, commencing in the morning. Towards night an extensive, general cloud came up which gave us a fine shower. At sunset the temperature was 70 degrees. The evening is partially fair.
Read a spell in the morning and then, in order to maintain my independence went out in the garden and worked a spell, and after this went a fishing, getting a pretty good mess without going far and returning by noon. Afternoon went up to the post office and got the Tribune, calling a spell at Mr. Bruce’s to see Wallace and Helen who are there. Came Home and read the Tribune and tinkered a little in the garden to finish the day. Ben and Anna were here today.
Friday, 5
New Moon at 1-29 even. Sun rises at 4-34, & sets at 7-334. Moon goes over.
The morning at the dawning was very fair and fine, and with the temperature at the rising of the sun, of 62 degrees. The forenoon was considerably cloudy most of the time and there was a slight sprinkling of rain. The afternoon was more fair, and there has been no thunder clouds in sight. At sunset the temperature was about 68 degrees and the evening is mostly fair.
Read a spell in the early morning and wrote a spell after breakfast. Concluding to try my luck again at fishing, got ready and went at it, spending the remainder of the forenoon at the creek here near home, getting a pretty mess. After dinner tried to read some but being so drowsy, gave it up and went to sleep. After this went up to the Post Office and got the Chronicle, and a letter from Mrs. Rhoda A. Cook. Came home and read the letter, and looked over the Chron. Drove the cattle off the meadow & at night worked a spell in the garden.
Saturday, 6
Second day of New Moon. Sun rises at 4-35, & sets at 7-33. Moon sets at 8-37.
The morning dawned remarkably clear and the weather, being more temperate, was very pleasant. At sunrise the temperature was down to 54 degrees. The day continued mostly fair, with only occasional floating clouds, & the weather was only moderately warm, and at sunset the the mercury was standing at 63 degrees. The evening too is mostly fair.
Went to work in the garden after the breakfast, and spent the principal portion of the day there. Finished clearing out the asparagus, hoed out some of the allies, hoed the onions &c. on the south border, and hoed out the turnips. After dinner went up to the Post Office but there was no mail matter for me, and brought home a paper box to pack Mrs. A. M. Bailey’s dress in to her by express, and spent a portion of the afternoon in the library reading. Wallace called in the forenoon, and was here to dinner. Wife went over to see Amanda.
Sunday, 7
Third day of New Moon. Sun rises at 4-35, & sets at 7-33. Moon sets at 9-14.
The morning was partially cloudy at the first, and the weather considerably cooler. At sunrise the temperature was down to 50 degrees. The clouds passed off and the day was considerably fair and became quite warm as the sun approached the meridian. At sunset the temperature was 70 degrees, and the evening is fair.
Got ready and attended meeting at the Centre, meeting Eliza on the way who alone with the carriage and was going to see Amanda who is quite sick. Mr. Larcom of Troy was the principal speaker at the meeting by invitation of Br. Levi Taylor who had charge of the proceedings. Returned immediately after the close. Improved all my leisure today in writing a letter to J. K. Pelton, which with the copy was finished in the evening. Eliza called a little while after she left Amanda’s, and while she was here, Percival and Celestia, and Pamela made a short call. Sat up late to finish my letter and have it ready for the mail tomorrow morning.
Monday, 8
Fourth day of New Moon. Sun rises at 4-36, & sets at 7-33. Moon rises at 9-48.
The morning was quite fair and the time of sunrise the temperature was down to 52 degrees according to the mercury. The day was mostly fair but there were thunder clouds in the middle and latter part with heavy showers around us but with only a slight sprinkling here. At the time of sunset the mercury was up to 72 degrees, and the evening is also quite clear.
In the morning finished a short letter to Theodore, ordering
some pictures. Concluding to go up to Valentine’s and Luther’s this morning
started off after breakfast with my letters immediately
after breakfast for the post office, and there finding that Isaac had two
passenger’s already engaged, gave up going that way & returning went
over to see Amanda a spell, & found her no better. Spent a portion
of the day reading, and in the afternoon wrote and copied a letter to Miss
Ellen F. Buell.
Tuesday, 9
Fifth day of New Moon. Sun rises at 4-37, & sets at 7-32. Moon rises at 10-17.
The morning was fair except a little haze around the horizon
and fog in the valley. At sunrise the mercury was standing at the mark
for 58 deg’s. The day has been mostly fair and considerably warm. There
were thunder clouds around north of us, with indications of showers but
this afternoon but there was no rain here. At sunset the mercury was up
to 76 degrees, and the evening is
Started off up the road very soon after breakfast, taking
along my letter to Miss Buell to the post office, and then called in to
Mr. Bruce’s and waiting there until Isaac got ready to start with the mail,
and then went on with him as far as Luther’s. Staid there until some time
afternoon taking a late dinner with them; and then started
of in the direction of home. Stopped in the woods and cut a fising rod
for Albert, and on my way home called a spell at Valentine’s and stopped
at the P.O. but got no mail.
Wednesday, 10
Sixth day of New Moon. Sun rises at 4.37, & sets at 7-32. Moon rises at 10-42.
The morning was partially cloudy, and at the time of sunrise the mercury was standing at the point for 66 degrees. There was a sprinkling of rain commencing early in the day and continuing most of the time until the middle of the afternoon. Remainder of the day partially fair. At sunset the temperature was at 73 degrees and the evening is considerably cloudy.
In the morning, concluding to go a fishing, got ready after breakfast and started off down the creek. Fished down as far as Mr. Barnes’ and returned with a pretty good mess of fish, some of them very nice ones. Got home between two and three in the afternoon and after eating my dinner, being considerably tired, lay down and took a rest and took a nap. After this reads some, and looked around some, and fixed up the posey beds some, and then worked in the garden a good spell, hoing out the allies, and hoing up the weeds generally.
Thursday, 11
Seventh day of New Moon. Sun rises at 4-38, & sets at 7-31. Moon rises at 11-6.
The morning was only partially fair and the weather continues warm. At sunrise the mercury was standing at 68 degrees. The forenoon continued partially fair but the afternoon was mostly cloudy threatning showers. There was no rain here. The weather was very warm – up among the nineties – and at sunset the temperature was up to 75 degrees. The evening is considerably cloudy.
After breakfast went into the garden and worked some time at clearing out the allies and hoing up the weeds wherever they appear. Harvey brought me a letter from the P.O. this morning which came in yesterday’s mail. It was sent by D. H. Andrus of Huron N.Y. In the middle of the day went up to the post office and got the Tribune and spent some time in the afternoon reading it and sleeping in my chair. Towards night went into the garden again with my hoe, and worked there till sundown.
Friday, 12
Eighth day of New Moon. Sun rises at 4-39, & sets at 7-38. Moon rises 11-30.
The morning was quite cloudy around the horizon but was otherwise fair. At the time of sunrise the mercury was standing at 62 degrees. There was a fine little shower in the forenoon, and heavier, thunder showers early in the afternoon. Remainder of the day partially fair. At sunset the mercury stood at 69 degrees, and evening is partially fair.
After breakfast worked a spell at hoing the garden and then made preparation, & taking Albert with me went down to the creek to catch some fish. He soon got tired of it and came back to the house, but I remaining a spell longer brought home a pretty decent mess of fish, mostly bullheads. Read and rested after dinner until the showers had ceased, and then went up to the post office and got the Reporter and the Chronicle, and two letters, one from Mr. Atkins and one from Mr. Hall of Stockbridge. Called on Lydia.
Saturday, 13
First Quarter at 2-52. Sun rises at 4-39, & sets at 7-30. Moon rises at 11-54.
There was considerable fog in the vallies when the morning dawned but otherwise it was bright and fair. At sunrise the temperature was 57 degrees only. The sky soon became overcast with clouds, and clouds and sunshine alternated through the forenoon. The afternoon was more fair. At sunset the mercury was at 68 degrees. The evening is a little cloudy.
After breakfast spent an hour or so about the house and in the library and then went in the garden to work a spell at thinning out the turnips. While at work in the garden Electa an Mahlon’s wife came here for a visit, and wife having gone over to Amanda’s, took their horse and waggon and drove over there and brought her home, and then put out and rook care of the horse. Came in and spent a short time with our visitors, and then went up to the P.O., and having to wait for the mail went in and sat a spell with Mr. Bruce. When the mail came in there being nothing for me, came home & spent the afternoon working some in the garden, & visiting some. After tea hitched up the horse & helped visitors away. Benjamin & Lurenda, & chil. came at night & staid.
Sunday, 14
Second day of First Quarter. Sun rises at 4-40 & sets at 7-30. Moon does not rise today.
The morning was fair except clouds in the horizon and fog in the valley. At the time of sunrise the mercury was resting at 57 degrees, the same as yesterday morning. The day continued fair with the exception of occasional floating clouds, and was also quite warm. The evening was warm and fair, the moon shining pleasantly.
Arose at the usual early hour and met the family at the breakfast table at the proper time. At meeting time Benjamin walked up to the Centre with me, Lurenda having gone over to see Amanda. Br. Greenlaw was in attendence and occupied the stand according to his appointment. Came home directly after the close and visited with Benjamin till after tea and then assisted him to harness his horses to go over to Amanda’s after Lurenda. They called on their way back and invited me to ride home with them, and having some things to send to A. M. Bailey by express, I concluded to go with them, he agreeing to go with me to Troy tomorrow.
Monday, 15
Third day of First Quarter. Sun rises at 4-41, & sets at 7-29. Moon rises at 0-20 morn.
The morning was mostly fair, but the middle of the day was considerably cloudy. The latter part of the day was more fair with occasional shower clouds passing around south, but there was only a sprinkling of rain here. The day has been quite warm. At sunset the mercury was up to 74 degrees. The evening is cloudy.
Pretty soon after breakfast Benjamin had his horse harnessed, to the buggy and went with me up to the borough. Carried my parcel into Newman’s store and got him to put it in proper order, and then carried it across the street and delivered it to Long at the express office. Bought some small articles of Newman and then started with Benjamin towards home. Rode with him till he turned off my road and then I came on home on foot. Stopped at the post office and got the Tribune and the Courier, and a package of stereoscopic views of Monument Mountain I had ordered from Stockbridge Mass.
Tuesday, 16
Fourth day of First Quarter. Sun rises at 4-42 & sets at 7-29. Moon rises at 0-51, morn
The morning was considerably cloudy & wind from the south west. At the time of the sunrising the temperature was up to 68 degrees. Began to rain soon after sunrise but did not continue long. There were several showers in the course of the and some thunder and some sunshine. At sunset the mercury was standing at 73 degrees. and the evening is partially fair.
Remained indoors during the rain in the morning and spent a part of the time reading. After the rain had ceased went out and commenced hoing the lower strawberry bed, but did not finish it. Towards noon went up to the store and bought some crackers for Amanda, and then went into Bruce’s and waited till the mail arrived then came home. After dinner took the crackers and some dried beef that Lurenda sent over to Amanda, and then went to the creek & creek & fished but was not very successful.
Wednesday, 17
Fifth day of First Quarter. Sun rises at 4-43, and sets at 7-28. Moon rises at 1-29.
The morning was partially cloudy with the wind changed to the north west. At sunrise the temperature was up to 69 degrees. The day has been very warm with clouds and sunshine alternating, and with some slight sprinklings of rain. The temperature at sunset was about 76 degrees. There are floating clouds in the evening, but the moon is shining brightly.
After reading a spell in the morning, at the instance of wife, went into the garden and picked a mess of string beans, and then went into the field and dug a pail full of potatoes for the women. Opened a bottle of Spalding’s prepared glue and repaired some books. After this took my hoe and finished hoing the lower strawberry bed. In the afternoon spent a considerable part of the time in the house with visitors. Amanda Shepard and O’meara’s wife came first and and after a little Samuel came. After staying a spell he & Amanda started for Troy, Jenny remaining till after tea. Luman came in the evening.
Thursday, 18
Sixth day of First Quarter. Sun rises at 4-43, & sets at 7-27. Moon Sets at 2-16.
The morning, as usual, was a little cloudy, and the temperature at the time of sunrising was 68 degrees according to the thermometer. There was a sprinkling of rain in the forenoon and in the middle of the day a pretty smart shower. The afternoon has been more or less cloudy, & the latter part was quite rainy. At sunset the mercury stood at 69 degrees, having been above 90 at noon. Evening cloudy.
Devoted a part of the morning to hoing in the garden and then spent some time in the house reading and arranging things in the library. Towards noon went up to the post office and got the Tribune and a letter from Miss Ellen F. Buell of Springfield Mass., inclosing the picture of her brother’s boy, of the age of six years. Came home and spent most of the afternoon in the library reading and dozing. Towards night went out in the rain & transplanted some turnips in the garden. Luman went away in the morning.
Friday, 19
Seventh day of First Quarter. Sun rises at 4-44, & sets at 7-26. Moon rises at tomorrow.
The morning was fair and the weather considerably cooler, the mercury being down to 57 degrees at the time of sunrise. The day has been quite fair and the weather much more temperate than for some time past. At the time of sunset, the mercury had come down to 62 degrees. The evening too is very clear and bright, giving us the full benefit of the full moon.
Spent a considerable portion of the morning hours in the house reading, and then at the instance of the women went out into the garden and picked a small mess of string beans, and after this went out into the field and dug a pail full of potatoes for their accommodation. The remainder of the forenoon was spent in searching for the papers, and arranging my cash account with Luman, & putting it into form. After dinner went up to the post office and got the Reporter and the Chronicle and also a letter from Mrs. Amie Brigham in Illinois. Mr. Bruce & Lydia called this afternoon & staid a little while.
Saturday, 20
Full Moon at 8-57, morn. sun rises at 4-45, & sets at 7-26. Moon rises 8-4.
The morning was very fair and the weather pretty cool, the temperature having become reduced to 45 degrees at the time of sunrise. The day continued quite fair all the way through, and was moderately warm. At sunset the temperature was about 62 degrees, and the evening is a very little cloudy.
Spent the early morning as usual and after breakfast went over the garden pulling a few weed whenever I found them, and then came into the house & after arranging things in the library commenced writing a long letter to Miss Ellen F. Buell of Springfield Mass. Continued at the writing table till afternoon, and then at the instance of wife went a fishing to get some little fish for Harvey to bait hooks with tonight for eels. Worked a spell in the evening at the letter but had to leave it to be finished and copied another day.
Sunday, 21
Second day of Full moon. Sun rises at 4-46, & sets at 7-25. Moon rises at 8-48.
The morning was partially cloudy and at the time of sunrise the mercury was at 63 degrees. The day has been quite cloudy and part of the time there was a brisk, southerly wind. Towards night it commenced raining and continued most of the time till the day closed. At sunset the mercury was up to 69 degrees. The evening is quite rainy.
Spent the morning, both before and after breakfast at the writing table. At the proper time made preparation and went up to the Centre to meeting. The meeting was conducted by Br. Levi Taylor who was assisted by Br. C. D. Ross. The audience was small and the exercises were not protracted. After the meeting was closed I came immediately home and found Amanda here Harvey having brought her over. She is getting better slowly. Lincoln and his wife are both here and Mrs. Bailey has gone, having worked here four weeks. Spent a part of the afternoon copying my long letter to Miss Buell having finished the original in the morning. Amanda and Lincoln’s folks remained over.
Monday, 22
Third day of Full Moon. Sun rises at 4-47, & sets at 7-24. Moon rises at 9-23.
There was a heavy rain last night. The morning was cloudy and the temperature at sunrise was 62 degrees. The most of the day has been fair, but was cloudy towards night, and was considerably windy in the forenoon. At sunset the temperature was 63 degrees and the evening is somewhat cloudy.
Did not go out in the morning until after breakfast, and then the first business was to close up the two entrances to the garden near the house in order to hinder Eliza from going in to do mischief. After this thought I would try my luck at angling and accordingly got ready and went down to the creek, but finding the water too high and rapid, did not stay long. Carried my letter to the post office before my work at the garden fence, and immediately after dinner went up to the post office again but got nothing but the Courier of last week. Spent the most of the afternoon reading Courier & attaching labels to my diaries.
Tuesday, 23
Fourth day of Full Moon. Sun rises at 4-48, & sets at 7-23. Moon rises at 9-54.
The morning was again quite cloudy and at the time of sunrising the mercury indicated a temperature of 56 degrees only. At 10 o’clk it began to rain moderately and continued with slight intermissions, until some time after noon. At sunset the temperature was 63 degrees, same as last night. The evening is very cloudy and dark.
Went into the garden and worked a little while before breakfast, and after breakfast spent some time in the library reading some and writing some, and finally concluded to go out and try the hook and line again. Went up the creek on to Volney’s lot and down into Frank’s meadow, and not succeeding very well, concluded to give it up and returned to the house. After dinner, went up to the post office but found my box empty, the Tribune due yesterday, had not arrived today. Came home and after reading and sleeping a spell, went into the garden and thinned out the turnips & transplanted some.
Wednesday, 24
Fifth day of Full Moon. Sun rises at 4-48, & sets at 7-22. Moon rises at 10-20.
More rain in the course of the night and the morning was quite cloudy. At the time of sunrise the mercury indicated 61 degrees of temperature. The forenoon remained cloudy, and the afternoon was partially fair. The temperature at the time of sunset was 62 degrees and the evening has come off quite fair.
Luman came last evening and was here to breakfast. Had a full supply of eels that Harvey & Lincoln caught last night. Luman went on to Barclay with some cattle. Began to write a letter yesterday to David H. Andrus of Huron N.Y. Went at it again today and in the forenoon finished, & copied it. After dinner went up to the post office and got the Tribune that was due last Monday, brought it home, and looking it over a little while, commenced writing a letter to Mr. Atkins of Middletown Conn., and was busy with it most of the time through the afternoon finishing it at night. In the evening sat up until nearly eleven o’clock to copy it and get the two ready for the mail tomorrow morning.
Thursday, 25
Sixth day of Full Moon. Sun rises at 4-49, & sets at 4-22. Moon rises at 10-46.
The morning was a little cloudy and the weather some cooler. At sunrise the mercury had gone down to the mark for 50 degrees. The clouds were soon dissipated and the day was very fair and fine and temperately warm. At sunset the mercury was at 68 degrees, and the evening is considerably cloudy again.
Made reading the business of the morning before breakfast and after eating carried my two letters up to the post office and put them into the letter box. After calling on Lydia, came home and went into the garden and picked a mess of peas, then picked a mess of summer squashes, and then picked a mess of cucumbers. Took up the Tribune and read a spell, then cut out some selections from the newspapers that had accumulated on the table and put the papers out of the way. A little after 12 o’clock went up to the post office again, waited at Bruce’s for Taylor’s folks to eat their dinner, then got the Tribune & came home & read it a spell, and then after having a short doze, sat down at the table and wrote a while.
Friday, 26
Seventh day of Full Moon. Sun rises at 4-50, & sets at 7-21. Moon rises at 11-12.
Heavy rain commenced in the night and continued in the morning. The temperature at the time of sunrise was 62 degrees. Rain ceased and clouds broke away before nine o’clock and the remainder of the day was tolerably fair. At sunset the mercury was up to the mark for 72 degrees. The evening is quite fair, with a brisk westerly wind.
Wrote some time this morning on a letter to Rhoda which I commenced in the afternoon yesterday. Wrote again after breakfast and a considerable portion of the forenoon. Dug a pail of potatoes for the women and received a call from Mr. Foulke of West Burlington. He went on to the Centre and after a little returned here again and took dinner. After a stay of about an hour he departed on his way to Franklin. Elon also called in the afternoon. Finished & copied my letter, carried it to the P.O. & got Reporter and the Chronicle.
Saturday, 27
Last Quarter at 2-23. morn. Sun rises at 4-51 & sets at 7-20. Moon rises at 11-30.
The morning was fair or nearly so, and the weather a little cooler again. At the time of sunrise the mercury was down to 56 degrees. The day continued fair or nearly so all the day through & at the time of sunset the mercury was up to 64 degrees. The evening is quite fair.
Read a spell in the morning and then went out into the garden and spent some time there looking it over and pulling out weeds whenever I came across them. After this picked a mess of string beans, and a mess of summer squashes, and a mess of cucumbers. Spent some time in the library looking over and arranging my file of letters received which have been accumulating for some time back, and then worked a spell in the front dooryard adjusting matters relating to the posies. Harvey or some one having brought the Courier from the post office, spent some time reading that, and then, in the afternoon, commenced to write a letter to sister Amie Brigham, now living in the southern part of Illinois. Spent most of the afternoon and evening at it, and finished the letter, but did not quite finish the copy and had to leave it to be completed tomorrow morning.
Sunday, 28
Second day of Last Quarter. Sun rises at 4-52, & sets at 4-19. Moon rises tomorrow morning.
The morning came in very fair and bright, but with a lower temperature. At sunrise the mercury was down to 50 degrees. The day was pretty warm notwithstanding this and continued fair. At sunset the mercury was up to 68 degrees and the evening is quite fair.
Arose in the morning at my usual early hour and after bathing &c. sat down to the table and finished copying my letter to Amy and enclosed and got it ready for the mail. A little before eleven o’clock went up to the post office and deposited my letter & then attended Mr. Monroe’s funeral at the meeting house, Alexander Lane being the preacher, Br. Greenlaw being present and assisting, the ordinary meeting for worship being postponed till 3 ½ o’clock p.m. Attended the afternoon meeting at which Br. Greenlaw officiated. Returned home and spent the remainder of the afternoon in the library reading.
Monday, 29
Third day of Last Quarter. Sun rose at 4-53, and set at 7-18. Moon rose at 0-11 morn.
The morning was fair with the temperature much reduced again, the mercury being only up to 53 degrees at the time of sunrise. The day continued mostly fair until about five o’clock in the afternoon when it became quite cloudy within a short time, but partially cleared off again soon after. At sunset the mercury stood at 74 degrees and the evening is considerably cloudy again.
Went into the garden and picked the cucumbers for pickling, and then picked a mess of string beans, and then picked a mess of summer squashes. After this fixed up some poesy works, and tinkered the dog churning power, and then went down on the flat fishing, but not succeeding very well, returned to the house a little after twelve o’clock and found Amanda and Lelia here, and also Eliza and Jenny, and Sara and Freemont. They all took dinner with us, and all departed before four o’clock, except Sara who remained with us. After dinner went up to the post office and got the Tribune, and spent some time reading it. Towards night Valiera called a few moments on her return from Thomas Case’s funeral.
Tuesday, 30
Fourth day of Last Quarter. Sun rose at 4-54, & set at 7-17. Moon rose at 12-44.
The morning remained cloudy, with strong indications of
rain. at the time of sunrise the mercury was standing at the mark for 60
degrees. The clouds in the morning went off without and the proved
to be pretty fair rain, and the day proved to be pretty fair.
The weather continues temperately warm. At sunset the mercury was standing
at 64 degrees. The evening is cloudy.
After breakfast went into the garden and worked a spell. Hoed out the asparagus beds and then came in and devoted some time to reading, after which went back into the garden and worked till noon, hoeing up weeds on the beds and among the vines and in the alleys, and wherever I could find them. After dinner spent some time in the house reading some and writing some, and dozing some in my chair. After this went back into the garden and picked a mess of peas for supper, and then came back to the library and spent the remainder of the afternoon with books and the pen.
Wednesday, 31
Fifth day of Last Quarter. Sun rose at 4-55, & set at 7-16. Moon rose at 1-24.
The morning was quite cloudy, the wind south, and there were strong indications of rain. At the time of sunrise the mercury stood at 58 degrees, and soon after this it began to rain, continuing without abatement until towards noon. The afternoon remained cloudy but there was not much rain. At the time of sunset the mercury was standing at 60 degrees. The evening continues cloudy.
Read a spell before breakfast after attending to the morning matters. After breakfast made some mucilage, prepared some pages in the miscellaneous Scrap Book, cut and fitted for insertion a sufficient quantity of matter to fill forty three pages, and then went to work and put it in, filling the book up to the seventy fourth page. After dinner Harvey brought me from the post office, a letter from Mr. Henry W. Tracey, announcing his desire for a nomination to Congress. Inserted a long biographical notice of the late Miss Catharine Sedgwick in a separate Scrap Book.
August
Thursday, 1
Sixth day of Last Quarter. Sun rose at 4-56, & set at 7-16. Moon rose at 2-10.
The morning was very foggy, and was also quite cloudy. The temperature was some lower than common too, the mercury only showing 52 degrees at sunrise. About nine o’clock the fog removed and the clouds broke away, and the remainder of the day was tolerably fair. At the time of sunrise the mercury was standing at the mark for 70 degrees. Clouds began to gather at that time, and the evening is considerably cloudy.
Worked a spell in the morning, after breakfast at my Scrap Book for receipts, & filled a number of pages with articles I had saved. After this went to work at the old strawberry bed, extracting the weeds and roots of quack grass, and preparing the ground for resetting. After dinner went to work at the Scrap Book, Courier No. 2, continuing till four o’clock, and then went to P.O. & got Tribune & Chronicle, stopping at aunt Polly’s to tea, wife going there in the morning riding with Harvey. Lizzie & Sara to Anna’s.
Friday, 2
Seventh day of Last Quarter. Sun rose at 4-57, & sets at 7-14. Moon rose at 3-05.
It was considerably cloudy in the morning, wind from the west, and weather a little warmer. At sunrising the mercury was up to 69 degrees. The clouds dispersed so that the day was mostly fair. There were thunder clouds in the afternoon but nothing more than a sprinkling of rain until night, and then there was a pretty smart thunder shower. At sunset the mercury stood at 66 degrees. The clouds having cleared away the evening is quite fair.
Worked some time in the morning at filling the Courier Scrap Book No. 2, before breakfast. After breakfast read a little while, and then went into the garden and picked some cucumber’s, and then picked some summer squashes, and after this I went out and picked a mess of peas for dinner. Did not go to the post office today, but Mr. Gilman brought me the Reporter. Read a little while in the afternoon and then went out and worked a spell at the strawberry beds, weeding and trimming. In the evening worked at Chronicle Scrap Book No. 2. Amanda here in forenoon.
Saturday, 3
Eighth day of Last Quarter. Sun rose at 4-58, & set at 7-13. Moon rose at 3-55.
The morning was very fair and nice and the temperature was considerably lower, it being down to 50 degrees at the time of sunrise. The day has been considerably cloudy a part of the time, and especially in the latter part, giving a slight sprinkling of rain. At the time of sunset the mercury was only up to 64 degrees. The evening is considerably fair.
After breakfast, having finished my work at Scrap Books for the present, went to work & cleaned out the library, arranging and putting things away into their places, producing better order. Went out into the garden and picked the cucumbers, for present use and for pickling and spent several hours in the middle of the day at the strawberry beds – principally at the lower one – pulling out the weeds, trimming the plants, and filling the vacancies by transplanting new ones. Spent part of the afternoon reading. Luman came from Barclay in the afternoon, & towards night went on to Troy. Sara went with him.
Sunday, 4
New Moon at 4-49, morn. Sun rises at 4-59, & sets at 7-12. Moon sets tomorow.
The morning was very fair except some fog along the valley. The temperature appears to be getting gradually lower, the mercury standing at 46 degrees at sunrise. At about six o’clock the morning was densely cloudy but cleared off again soon after, and the day has been quite fair and pleasant. The weather has been cooler than common and at sunset the mercury was down to 59 degrees. The evening is quite clear.
After duly attending to my morning matters, sat down in the library and spent some time reading before the announcement that breakfast was ready. On leaving the table returned to the library and resumed my reading, continuing it most of the time until the hour for meeting, and then proceeded up to the meeting house where I gave my attendence. The audience was not large, there being no preacher expected to be present from abroad. Br. Levi Taylor conducted the meeting having Mr. Larcum to assist him. Returned & spent the remainder of the day about the house, with the family, & reading some & sleeping.
Monday, 5
Second day of New Moon. Sun rose at 5-3 & set at 7-9. Moon sets at 8-17.
The morning at the opening was very fair and pleasant, and at sunrise the mercury was standing at 43 degrees. The day was considerably warm and remained quite fair throughout. At the time of sunset the temperature was indicated by the mercury to be 64 degrees. The evening is remarkably fair and pleasant.
Spent some time in the library after breakfast, reading and attending to various other matters of not much importance. After this went out and worked the remainder of the forenoon at the old strawberry bed, digging up the surface and extracting the weeds to prepare it for renewing, and digging out the quack grass with its roots from the border. In the middle of the day went up to the post office and got the Tribune, & a letter from Ellen Buell announcing her intention of coming here for a visit now soon. Wrote an answer, copied it, & at night took it up to the office.
Tuesday, 6
Third day of New Moon. Sun rose at 5-3, & set at 7-7. Moon sets at 8-43. The
The wind being in the south in the morning, there were some clouds making their apparance from that quarter. At the time of sunrise the mercury stood at 60 degrees. The day soon became fair, and continued so, with slight exceptions, until the close. At sunset the the temperature was up to 70 degrees, and the evening is partially cloudy.
Read a spell before breakfast, and also a spell after breakfast, and then went out into the garden and gathered the cucumbers for pickles, and picked the squashes also After this repaired my fishing rod, and then concluding to go out and use it a spell today made preparation and started for the creek, beginning in Frank Taylor’s meadow I continued on down the creek as far as Tom Pratt’s, and did not return until towards night. Succeeded tolerably well. Mr. Gilman brought me from the post office a letter from A. M. Bailey, & a Dutch electioneering pamphlet sent me by some person unknown.
Wednesday, 7
Fourth day of New Moon. Sun rises at 5-4, & set at 7-6. Moon sets at 9-6.
The morning was quite fair, and at the time of sunrise the mercury stood at 58 degrees. The day has been mostly fair, but there were thunder clouds in the afternoon. There was no rain here. The weather has become quite warm again. At sunset the mercury indicated 74 degrees. The evening is quite fair and bright.
Devoted my time in the morning to reading until eight or nine o’clock, then went into the garden and picked a mess of green peas, and after this took my hoe and worked in the garden till dinner time hoeing turnips and digging weeds out of the allies. Luman and Charley came here a little before noon and remained until after dinner. They were on their way to Troy to buy sheep. Went into the meadow after dinner and helped Harvey get up a load of hay. Read and dozed the remainder of the day.
Thursday, 8
Fifth day of New Moon. Sun rose at 5-5, set at 7-5, & is 5 slow. Moon sets at 9-30.
The past night was quite warm, and the morning was very clear and pleasant. At the time of sunrise the mercury was standing at 58 degrees. The day was very warm and the forenoon continued fair. there were some clouds in the afternoon which threatned showers but they passed off without rain. At sunset the mercury stood at 76 degrees. The evening is quite fair.
In the morning went out and picked the cucumbers for pickling before breakfast, and after breakfast sat down and read a spell and then went into the garden & worked at hoing turnips until nearly noon. Went up to the post office and got the Tribune after waiting a spell at Lydia’s brought it home and spent some time reading it, then prepared some trifles to send in the mail to A. M. Bailey, & sent by Charley some garden sauce to Theodore, & then went into the garden & finished hoing the turnips.
Friday, 9
Sixth day of New Moon. Sun rose at 5-6, - Set at 7-4, & is 5 slow. Moon sets at 9:55.
There has been another warm night succeeded by a fair morning. At sunrise the mercury stood at 58 degrees. The day was fair till afternoon and then there were some thunder clouds around about, but there was no rain here, and warm weather continued all the way through. At the time of sunsetting the mercury was standing at at the mark for 77 degrees. The evening is very fair and pleasant.
Devoted a short time after breakfast to reading, then
repaired the Cottage bedstead and then went into the garden and picked
a mess of string beans; and then finished up the forenoon by going a fishing
a little while. After dinner went up to the post office and got the Tribune
Reporter and the last week’s Courier, and devoted some time to reading,
and looking them over. Towards night split some wood, & dug some potatoes
for the women.
Saturday, 10
Seventh day of New Moon. Sun rose at 5-7, Set at 7-3, & is 5 slow. Moon sets at 10-20/
The past night was quite warm, and the morning quite fair. At the time of sunrise the mercury was standing at 64 degrees. The morning soon became cloudy and there was a bright rainbow exhibited in the west. Cleared off again in an hour, and the forenoon was fair. Afternoon there were thunder showers, but there was not much rain here. At sunset the mercury was at 68 degrees.
Spent a part of the morning with my books and newspapers as usual, and then went into the chamber and worked at putting the fastenings into the parlour bedroom windows. Towards noon went up to the post office and got the Chronicle and the Courier for this week. Mr. Bunyan came home with me to dinner, and spent some time. After this I finished the windows I had begun, and worked a spell in the garden. At night Azor & Eliza came & brought with them Miss Buell and Miss Wells, two lady visiters from Springfield Mass. that we were expecting.
Sunday, 11
Eighth day of New Moon. Sun rose at 5-8, set at 7-1, & is 5 slow. Moon sets at 10-49.
The morning was quite foggy, and was somewhat cloudy. At the time the sun rose the temperature was 60 degrees. The forenoon was mostly fair and the weather very warm. The afternoon was quite showery, attended with some thunder. At the time of sunset the mercury was up to 70 degrees. The evening is partially cloudy.
Arose at my usual early hour, washed, dressed, &c, and our company arose in due time for breakfast. After this we spent the time in reading and conversation until the hour for meeting. Ellen and Mary being too much fatigued with their journey to go out today, Azor and Eliza only attended with me. Br. Greenlaw was present and delivered a discourse. We returned directly after meeting and I went into the garden and picked a mess of green peas for supper. Azor and Eliza remained until nearly night and then departed for their home.
Monday, 12
First Quarter at 0-56 morn. sun rises at 4-9, & sets at 7-0. Moon sets at 11-24.
The morning was somewhat cloudy and considerably foggy at the opening, and at the time of sunrise the temperature was 62 degrees. The forenoon became fair or nearly so, and the afternoon, like yesterday was quite showery, but with more thunder, and with a sufficient amount of rain to raise the streams considerably. At sunset the mercury stood at 72 degrees. The evening is cloudy & wet, & creek very high.
Devoted a portion of the morning to reading and after breakfast went out into the garden and picked a considerable quantity of cucumbers, and after that went out again & picked a mess of string beans, and did some other things to help the women along with their work, including some baby tending. At a little before noon went up to the post office, &, waiting there for the mail, got the Tribune and a letter from Mrs. Rhoda A. Cook. Brought them home and spent some time reading them and the remainder of the day with our visiters. Robert called to notify me to go to Towanda next Thursday.
Tuesday, 13
Second day of First Quarter. Sun rises at 5-10, set at 6-59, & is 5 slow. Moon sets tomorrow.
The morning was quite cloudy, and wet, after a pretty warm night, and the wind was south, and the water continued high. At sunrise the mercury was up to 68 degrees. There was a considerable shower in the course of the forenoon, and there were several in the afternoon. The mercury at sundown was was up to about 75 degrees. The evening is mostly fair.
Spent the morning before breakfast in the usual manner, and in the course of the forenoon worked a little while at transplanting some strawberries on the old bed. Spent the principal portion of the time with our visiters, attending to no other business except to chop a little wood for the kitchen. Jesse McKean called a little before noon, and I gave him an introduction to Ellen & Mary. He remained and took dinner with us. Amanda and Lucella came over & visited with us in the afternoon.
Wednesday, 14
Third day of First Quarter. Sun rises at 5-11, sets at 6-58, & is 1 slow. Moon sets at 0-5.
Some clouds in the morning, with warm weather continuing. At the time of sunrise the mercury was standing at 65 degrees. There were clouds and sunshine alternately through the course of the day, and the weather was pretty warm but there was very little rain. At sunset the temperature was about 75 degrees, and the evening is cloudy and a little rainy.
Immediately after breakfast, went up to Isaac’s and engaged him to come down here with his wagon and take Ellen and Mary, with me, up to Valentine’s. We took dinner there and rode back with Isaac on his return with the mail. I called on Adolphus while I was there, and at the post office on my return. Afternon I went up on to the north hill where Harvey was cradling oats, & then down to the creek to gather some herbs with Ellen & Sara, & then I went up on the south hill & picked a few blackberries for tea.
Thursday, 15
Fourth day of First Quarter. Sun rose at 5-12, set at 6-56, & is 4 slow.. Moon set at 0-58, morn.
The morning was considerably cloudy and warm, the mercury being, at the time of sunrise, up to 70 degrees. Cloudy weather continued through the day, or the greater portion of it, and at Towanda there was a long, heavy shower beginning at 4 p.m., and another in the evening.
Started away immediately after breakfast, with Adolphus Saxton and Robert for Towanda for the purpose of proving the Will of Mr. Monroe. Arrived there before noon and registered at the Mearis House where we took dinner. There having been objection made to the probate of the Will, it had to be postponed until after a Register’s Court shall have been held. Made a call at the Argus office, and met several old friends about town. We did not start for home, until about 6 o’clock at night, on account of the rain. I arrived at home a little before 10.
Friday, 16
Fifth day of First Quarter. Sun rose at 5-13, set at 6-55, & is 4 slow. Moon set at 3-15 morn.
The morning was quite cloudy with a continuation of warm weather. At the time of sunrise the mercury was up to 66 degrees. At 6 o’clock it began to rain, and it continued, moderately, and almost without intermission, until 3 o’clock in the afternoon. Between 5 and 6 at night there was a heavy shower, began which continued sometime.
This being the day we had appointed for a trip to Barclay, we got ready in the morning and waited for the rain to cease so that we could proceed. Went into the garden and picked the cucumbers, and went up to the post office and got the Tribune and the Reporter, and then returning spent the time waiting, reading some and conversing. At 3 p.m. I ventured to start. I had Harvey’s team, and took along Ellen and Mary & Sara. We arrived there safely, stopping at Theodore’s, the ladies occupied a room in Luman’s house and I lodged with Theodore. We took our supper there.
Saturday, 17
Sixth day of First Quarter. Sun rose at 5-14, set at 6-53, & is 4 slow. Moon set at 3-15. Morn.
The morning at the opening was very cloudy, but in the course of the forenoon the clouds broke away, moved off, and the day became fair. The afternoon was quite fair and pleasant and the weather was temperately warm. The evening continues fair.
Spent the morning at Theodore’s, and around Luman’s establishment there. We all took breakfast at Theodore’s, and after this we took a walk about town to see the coal operations at the shutes & elsewhere. Met Dr. Hillis who invited me to his house. Went in, and receiving an invitation to come there with my company of ladies to dinner; at the proper time I conducted them to the house and gave them an introduction. After dinner, at the Dr.’s instance, we all, but Mary; who was fatigued; went down to the head of the plain, on the engine & returning, took tea at Theodore’s. The ladies went to their room, & I lodged at the doctor’s.
Sunday, 18
Full Moon at 3-37 even. Sun rises at 5-13, & sets at 6-54. Moon goes over.
The morning was quite fair and the weather was a little cooler than of late. The day continued fair, and also became pretty warm. There were some floating clouds in the afternoon, but none that obstructed the sunshine. At sunset the the temperature was about 73 degrees. The evening is partially cloudy.
Arose at my usual early hour and went out, spending some time walking about before the people left their beds. We all took breakfast at Theodore’s, which is Luman’s boarding place, and not long after this we had our team harnessed, and taking leave of Barclay friends, started for home. A great many men were in the fields at work today trying to save their oats. We arrived home a little after noon, and while unharnessing the horses, I found that one of them was sick, & took him up to Harvey on the hill, but he soon recovered. Found a letter from Mr. Atkins on my table which came on Friday. Went up to the P.O. for Ellen, but found no letter.
Monday, 19
Second day of Full Moon. Sun rose at 5-16, set at 6-51, & is 3 slow. Moon rises at 7-51 even.
The morning was considerably cloudy and not very cool. At the time of sunrise the mercury was standing at 68 degrees. Rain began to fall soon after this period but did not continue long. The principal portion of the day was cloudy and there was a heavy thunder shower south of us in the afternoon. At sunset the mercury had come down from 92 to 74 degrees. Evening fair.
Picked the cucumbers in the morning, spent the forenoon reading and visiting, and in the middle of the day went up to the post office, and having to wait for the mail went into Mr. Bruce’s and sat till it arrived. Got the Tribune and the Courier, and the Chronicle, and a letter for Ellen from her brother Charles which brought for me a map of Springfield city. Afternoon went up to P.O. with two letters for the girls. Luman here to dinner. He went away but returned again in the evening.
Tuesday, 20
Third day of Full Moon. Sun rises at 5-17, and sets at 6:59, & is 3 slow. Moon rises 8-20.
The morning was remarkably foggy, and was therefore quite dark. The weather was a little cooler, the mercury at sunrise being down to 66 degrees. The forenoon was somewhat cloudy after the fog was dispersed, but the afternoon was quite fair and considerably warm. The evening is fair and bright.
Started soon after breakfast on foot for Benjamin’s, and found him quite unwell, he having been hurt by a colt. Harvey came there soon after with his ma and our visiters. He went immediately home and after a little I came on up to Azor’s for the purpose of visiting Mr. & Mrs. Anderson. Remained at Azor’s through the day & over night, for the purpose of continuing my visit with his uncle and aunt whom I found at his house on my arrival but who at night went up to tarry with Hiram, with the understanding that they would return in the morning tomorrow, and remain till 4 o’clock p.m. when Azor will take them to the depot for their departure home.
Wednesday, 21
Fourth day of Full Moon. Sun rose at 5-18, & set at 6-48 & is 3 slow. Moon rises at 8-48.
The morning was partially cloudy and was also quite warm. The clouds soon after breakfast time the clouds gathered and we had a moderate shower. Cleared off and the day was fair till sometime afternoon & then we had a heavy thunder shower. Cleared off again and the remainder of the day was fair. In the evening there were some clouds.
Mr. and Mrs. Anderson returned to Azor’s in the course of the forenoon and spent their time visiting, and in completing their arrangements the journey until after three o’clock when Azor and Eliza started away with them to the depot and saw them take their departure. When they came back Azor went with me down to Benjamin’s and we brought back to his house wife, & Ellen, and Mary; with the intention of remaining until Monday when the girls expect to start for their homes in Mass.
Thursday, 22
Fifth day of Full Moon. Sun rose at 5-19, Set at 6-46, & is 3 slow. Moon rises at 9-15.
There were only a few clouds to be seen in the early morning, and they dispersing soon, the day was fair until some time in the afternoon when clouds came up from the west which threatned a shower, but passed over with only a slight sprinkling of rain. The day was very warm and the evening is fair.
Very soon after breakfast Azor harnessed his horses and I went with Eliza and the two young ladies to West Burlington to show them the former home of their relatives, the Stevens family. We called a short time at Ransom Ward’s and then went on down to the old meeting house to visit their graves in the old burying ground there. In my attempt to turn the wagon at that place I had the misfortune to throw the ladies out, and Miss Wells was hurt somewhat, but we trust not seriously. We returned to Mr. Ward’s to dinner, after this called at Martin Rockwell’s & looked over the old homestead, and having spent the afternoon very pleasantly, returned to Azor’s at night.
Friday, 23
Sixth day of Full Moon. Sun rose at 5-20. Set at 6-45, & is 2 slow. Moon rises at 9-42.
The morning was a little cloudy, and the weather was considerably cooler than it has been of late. The clouds were soon dissipated and the sun coming out the temperature became considerably higher. In the afternoon there were some clouds to be seen but they did not bring any rain. The evening was considerably dark but there were no clouds in sight.
Very soon after breakfast, concluding to walk over to town, started off with Fremont and went over the hill. Went to the post office to get advice concerning a Post Office Order which Miss Buell has received from her brother at home. After this called a short time at Delos’ office, went into Parsons’ and Newman’s store, stopped a while at Pierce’s, and then after calling at Samuel’s and chatting a spell with Amanda, went back to Azor’s, by way of Long’s pond. Spent the remainder of the day about the house, reading some and visiting with the ladies.
Saturday, 24
Seventh day of Full Moon. Sun rose at 5:21, Set at 6-43, & is 2 slow. Moon rises at 10-11.
The morning opened bright and fair after a cool night, and continued fair until late in the afternoon. The close of the day was considerably cloudy but there was no rain . The afternoon was quite warm and cooler again at night. The clouds cleared away in the fore part of the evening, and now at bed time it is quite fair.
Directly after breakfast started away with Fremont for town again. Arriving there went to the post office and got Miss Buell’s Post Office order cashed and then going down to the office of Delos accepted an invitation to ride with him to Alba, he having to attend an arbitration there. After our arrival there I was chosen to fill a vacancy in the Board of Arbitrators and soon after taking my seat the case was settled by the parties and their counsel, and the board was dismissed(?). Went over to the ??? to see Br. Wilson, took dinner with him at his house, & soon after rode back to Troy with Delos, and then ?? returned immediately to Azor’s.
Sunday, 25
Last Quarter at 3-39, even. Sun rises at 5-19, & sets at 6-24. Moon rises at 10-43.
The morning was a little cool and considerably cloudy, and the clouds continued through the forenoon. Early in the afternoon they began to disperse and the sun appeared. The afternoon was fair until about the time of sunset, at which time there was a dark cloud which veiled the sky, and was attended by most terrific lightning and thunder, and violent wind, but with only a little rain. The temperature was 78 degrees at that time. the evening is fair again.
Spent the morning at Azor’s in the usual way, reading some and conversing. At the proper time for meeting Azor went to the village with his carriage and took along with him Mary and Jennie, Ellen and the rest of our company concluding to remain. We spent the most of our time reading until their return. After tea, Azor hitched up his team, & wife & I took our leave of Ellen & Mary & departed for our home, they intending to start from Troy tomorrow.
Monday, 26
Second day of Last Quarter. Sun rose at 5-22, Set at 6-40 & is 1 slow. Moon rises at 11-21.
The morning was quite fair with the exception of a line of fog along the valley. At the time of sunrise the mercury stood at the mark for 59 degrees. The forenoon was mostly fair, but the afternoon was partially cloudy. The weather has been quite warm but there has been no rain. At the time of sunset the mercury was standing at the mark for 68 degrees. There are some clouds remaining in the evening.
Read a spell in the morning, and after breakfast went into the garden and picked and husked my little popcorn and laid it up in the chamber, and then picked and brought in a quantity of tomatoes that were ripe. After mail time went up to the post office and got the Tribune, brought it home, and spent some time reading it. Cleared off the library table, examining the papers and cutting out such articles for the scrap books as I thought proper and packing up and putting away the remainder. Spent the remaining part of the afternoon mostly in the library.
Tuesday, 27
Third day of Last Quarter. Sun rises at 5-23, sets at 6-39, and is 1 slow. Moon does not rise today.
The morning was considerably cloudy at the dawn and was also pretty warm, the mercury being up to 65 degrees at the time of sunrise. Rain commenced early but did not continue long, and before noon the sun was shining. The afternoon was mostly fair and there was no more rain. At sunset the mercury was up to 65 degrees, and the evening is very fair, with hardly a cloud in sight.
Sat down in the morning and read a spell after breakfast, then went out in the garden and picked about a bushel of cucumbers. After this worked a spell at my Harper’s Weekly Scrap Book and then at Lizzie’s request went out and gathered a large pail full of Siberian Crab apples for canning. In the afternoon Amanda was here, and she wanting some, I gathered for her another pail full. Spent most of the remaining portions of the day fitting and inserting articles from Harper’s Weekly into a Scrap Book.
Wednesday, 28
Fourth day of Last Quarter. sun rises at 5-24, sets at 6-36, & is 1 slow. Moon rises at 0-5, morn.
The morning at the opening was quite cloudy and the weather was considerably cooler. At the time of sunrising the mercury was down to 51 degrees. The morning continued cloudy some time, but cleared off in the course of the forenoon, and the remainder of the day was fair, but not so warm as of late. At the time of sunsetting the mercury stood no higher than 58 degrees. The evening is clear and bright.
Arose at my usual early hour in the morning and read some before breakfast. After this went back into the library and continued my work at making Scrap Books. Spent the forenoon in this manner, and after dinner devoted an hour or two to reading, and dozing. Remained about the house some time longer, and then concluding to go out and try my luck at fishing a little while made preparation and went down to the creek. Went up stream onto Volney’s lot, but not succeeding very well, gave it up and returned to the house.
Thursday, 29
Fifth day of Last Quarter. Sun rose at 5-25, & set at 6-33, & is 1 slow. Moon rose at 0-34?.
There were some clouds and a little fog this morning at the opening, with a lower temperature, the mercury at sunrise being down to 48 degrees. As the morning progressed the clouds increased and there was a little rain in the course of the forenoon. The afternoon was quite rainy but it came moderately. At sunset the mercury stood at 59 degrees. The evening is quite cloudy, raining slowly with the wind from the south.
Read a spell in the morning before breakfast and a spell afterward. Repaired my fishing rod and thought I would go a fishing but gave it up finally on account of the rain. Went out to the lower strawberry bed and pulled out a quantity of weeds, and towards noon went up to the Centre stopping at Mr. Bruce’s until the mail was brought in, then went into the P.O. and got the Tribune and the Chronicle, and a letter from cousin Lydia Caywood. Spent much of the remainder of the day reading. Benjamin & Lurenda called towards night.
Friday, 30
Sixth day of Last Quarter. Sun rose at 5-26. Set at 6-34, & is right with true time. Moon rose at 2-48.
The morning opened fair and the weather was a little warmer. At sunrising the mercury was standing at 55 degrees and the wind had changed to the northwest. The forenoon became partially cloudy, and the afternoon was considerably so. There was a little rain in the middle of the day. The weather grew cooler and at sunset the mercury was down to 52 degrees. The evening is quite cloudy, with considerable wind.
Read some in the early morning, and after breakfast went to work at some old newspapers, cutting out such articles as I thought proper for preservation in Scrap Books, and packing up and laying away the residue to sell for paper rags. Towards noon concluded to try the fishing rod again, got ready and proceeded to the creek in Frank Taylor’s meadow, and fishing down stream as far as Tom Pratt’s succeeded in taking a pretty good mess of large dace. After my return went up to the P.O. & got the Reporter, the Argus, & a paper from George C. Buell. Spent remainder of day reading.
Saturday, 31
Seventh day of Last Quarter. Sun rose at 5-27, Set at 6-33, and agrees with true time. Moon rose at 2-46.
The morning was cloudy with a pretty brisk north west wind. At the time of sunrise the mercury stood at 53 degrees. There was a little sunshine in the course of the forenoon but in the main it was pretty cloudy and rough. The afternoon was mostly fair. At sunset the mercury was standing at 58 degrees and the evening is considerably cloudy.
Read a spell in the morning before breakfast, and after
breakfast had another spell of reading. After this went to work at filling
a Scrap Book, into which, after preparing the matter I inserted thirty
five pages. In the afternoon went up to the post office and got the Courier,
returned immediately, and sat down and read an hour or two. Bought a couple
pencils of Mr. Williams a pedler who called this afternoon. Towards night
went into the garden and picked more than a half bushel of cucumbers.
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