FANNY MARIA HOYT BEAN

1893 + 1895 Diaries of the Widow of a Prominent Massachusetts Reverend Whose Children Are Grown and Who Is Enjoying Her Golden Years in New York

New York, United States. Softcover. On offer are two diaries dating from the late 19th century in New York City. The author of these diaries is Fanny Maria Bean (1837-1919). She was born in 1837 in New York City to Seymour Hoyt and Fanny Stevens. In 1863, Fanny married Reverend David Marks Bean (1832-1884). Together, they had four daughters: Annie, Susan, Elizabeth and Grace. The family lived in Massachusetts where David was a Minister for 16 years in Everett, Webster and South Framingham. In 1867, Reverend Bean represented Everett in the Massachusetts legislature, and after concluding his ministerial career in 1879, he was Superintendent of Framingham public schools. He then moved with Fanny and his children to Colorado in an attempt to treat his lung illness, but he died in 1884. Fanny eventually moved back to New York, where she remained until her death. The diaries cover 1893 and 1895. Fanny Bean is not mentioned by name but a number of context clues clearly identify these diaries as having belonged to her. She was 55 and 57 years old when she began her diaries. Fanny was obviously a well-educated woman and her entries, though often brief, are well written and paint a picture of a busy life [Note: There is evidence of a Fanny M. Hoyt attending Rutgers Female Institute from 1850-1853 but we are unable to confirm this is the same person as she would have been too young to be in university]. Some excerpts of her diaries give a sense of the flavour: “[ ] S & B to N. Y to see the procession of sailors & ships of navies in Hudson R…” [Apr 28, 1893]. This is a reference to a parade of 37 warships in an international fleet that visited New York City Along with two squadrons of U. S. Navy cruisers and gunboats, squadrons of ships from Great Britain, Italy, Germany, Brazil, Holland, Russia, and Spain also participated. The peaceful collection of ships was a minor diplomatic triumph as many of the nations present were fierce rivals. “Susie's wedding day – at 12 o’clock in church – to Lawrence Grey – all went off beautifully – the floral decorations fine both in house and church – about 25 here to celebration – Bridal party left at 1: 32 – almost 3 I went and laid down feeling exhausted” [June 27, 1893]. “56 years old! All my dear children remembered me with loving cards and gifts. I spent much of the time in writing in A. M. And P. M Thus far the Lord hath led me [ ]” [Aug 19, 1893]. “...Distressed to learn one of my S. S (Sunday School) scholars sentenced to prison for theft” [Jan 19, 1895]. “Very chilly and windy. Making collar for B. B, H & I to dinner at Dr. Ryders – Mr. & Mrs. Ridell and mother there too – very nice time- many meals here for the time being” [Mar 28, 1895]. “Lovely and cool. 58! 10 pretty and useful gifts. 2 P. M. Treated myself and all to a ride to Newfield and Springdale – about one hour – lovely” [Aug 19, 1895]. The 1895 diary also contains detailed lists of Fanny’s expenditures, which helps the researcher understand her lived experience. These diaries are a terrific look into the life of a widow in New York whose children have grown and who is making her own way in the late 19th century. Both diaries measure 6.0 x 3.5 inches plus memoranda sections. They are both complete and in Good condition. ; Manuscripts; 8vo 8" - 9" tall. Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0011133

Catalogue: 19th Century Diary

Keywords: Retirement 19th

THOMAS ELWOOD CLARK

1849 New Hampshire Teen Boy’S Academic and Creative Writing Kept While at Indiana University

Bloomington, Monroe County, Indiana, New Hampshire, 1849. Hardcover. On offer is a fascinating 19th century journal with an academic slant kept by a young American student. The diary was kept by Thomas Elwood Clark (1834-1909). Clark was born in North Carolina to parents William Clark and Louisa Worth, He married Nancy Goodrich (1835-1882) on ? ? October 5, 1862. They lived in Indiana, where they raised their four children, Mary Louisa (Love) , John, Nellie, and Miriam. Clark was a merchant who owned a shop. It seems Clark was enlisted and fought in the US Civil War, but this is not confirmed. According to online records, Clark was 15-years-old at the time of this book’s writing, and according to census data, his family was still living in New Hampshire. However, there are notations in the journal that imply he is at “Bloomington IA University”, which is Indiana University. On the first page of the journal, Clark writes that the journal is “Commenced on the 1st day of May, 1849 in the town of Bloomington, Monroe County, I. A. ” There is no obvious explanation for this seeming discrepancy. One might guess that Clark was sent to Indiana for summer school or early university admission. He does settle in Indiana and build his life there as an adult. This book is filled with fascinating academic notes written in a stunning copperplate script. Clark both writes his original thoughts and copies pieces of content in this book. The book opens with a summary of the state of cholera in the USA, goes on to list several “questions for polemics”, followed by a question of polemics selected and answered by Clark himself (he provides his opinion on the question, “are secret societies a benefit to mankind? ”). He copies impressive poetry of the time and creates and writes his own poetry and prose. Clark makes careful notes about the fine arts, languaging (a section on alliteration and how Latin contributes to English, for example). Clark makes notes about how to complete various mathematical calculations, and so much more. Some excerpts from the book follow: “Read this my friends, when I’m away/And calmly think a youth this day/Long sat, o’er look in moody dream/Wishing, praying some music theme/Would be obedient to his call/And store the mind’s love vacant hall/So, on this page a youthful name/Might stands a record free from shame…” [Excerpt of a poem by T. Elwood Clark, July 4, 1849]. “...Are secret societies a benefit to mankind? ...As it has been their imperative duty to promote the cause of virtue, alleviate suffering humanity, and fortify the bullworks of secret [institutions]. I say all those thus engaged have nobly served their day and generation and although their effort was but a feeble one yet many a disconsolate being as helped the cause which brought the hoped relief…. ” [Excerpt of T. Elwood Clark’s response to the polemic question, n. D. ]. “There are Three Thousand Six hundred and Sixty Four known languages now in use in the world. Of these, Nine Hundred and Sixty Seven are Asiatic. Five Hundred and Eighty Seven European and Two Hundred African. And the rest American dialects…” [copied by T. Elwood Clark]. “The cholera is very bad at present. Washington Davis Co. Is deserted. There were seventy five deaths there yesterday. Nine reported here this morning. Two are dead…” [Aug 1, 1849]. For a historian or an education researcher, this small journal gives a picture of the type of topics and questions that were considered worthy subjects as part of a young person’s education. While many reflect the times and current knowledge, it is interesting how some still hold relevance to debates today. Measuring 7.5x6 inches, this journal contains 148 pages and is about 35% complete. For its age, it is in quite good condition. There are wear marks on the hard cover, especially the corners. The binding is secure but loosening and all pages are intact. The copperplate script is legible. ; Manuscripts; 16mo 6" - 7" tall; 148 pages; Signed by Author. Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0012219

Catalogue: 19th Century Diary

Keywords: Composition Academia

ABIGAIL (ABBIE) BROWN SHAW COLE

1859-1869 Diary of an Upper Class Virginia Woman Absorbed in Religion, Culture and Her Social World, Unaware of the Turmoil Brewing Around Her

Richmond, Virginia, 1859-1869. Softcover. On offer is a fascinating diary of an intelligent, musical upper class woman dating from the immediate years before the outbreak of the Civil War in the United States. The diary was written by Abigail (Abbie) Brown Shaw Cole (1823-1906). Written primarily in 1859 and 1860, when she was aged 36-40, Abbie does make one entry in 1869. Abbie was born in Providence, Rhode Island, to Oliver and Sarah (Jenckes) Shaw. Her father was a musician and composer who composed hymns and songs including “Taunton”, "Bristol”, "Arrayed in Clouds of Golden Light," and "The Missionary Angel." In 1846, Abbie married Hanun Wilbur Cole. Together they had three children: John Hanun Cole (b. 1848) , Caroline Minna Cole Chapin (b. 1850) , and Charles D’Urban Morris Cole (b. 1861). The family moved around a fair bit, living, at various points, in Providence, Rhode Island, Richmond, Virginia, Cambridge, Massachusetts and New York City, New York. The family was wealthy. Hanun Cole was a successful merchant and scholar, his family having owned merchant ships. Both male children, John and Charles, would go on to become lawyers. Charles would attend Harvard and become one of the organizers of the Morristown Civic Association. Abbie’s diary paints a remarkable picture of a wealthy, mostly worry-free life in the antebellum south. She dotes on her young children, promoting their music and language lessons. She is forever socializing and traveling (having a live-in servant means total freedom for our Abbie! ). She is deeply religious, attending St. Paul’s church services and missionary meetings regularly. She reads voraciously in French and takes Italian lessons. She practices the piano religiously, a talent she picked up from her late father. Abbie’s diary opens on January 1, 1859. At the time she is living in Richmond, Virginia. She begins reflectively, discussing her ongoing grief about the loss of her father: “Last night I felt very sad as it was the anniversary of dear Papa’s death. In thought I went back to the night he so sweetly went to sleep - 10 years ago! I read over some of his favorite Psalms and entries very early”. [Note: Oliver Shaw died Dec 31,1848] Additional excerpts of Abbie’s diary give a flavor of her entries: “... Lesson in French and Music immediately after breakfast. Mrs. B sent a carriage for me…pleasant times. Was delighted to get at last a long satisfactory letter from Jane. A sweet letter indeed. Oh how glad I am to get it! Wrote to Johnnie. Little pet” [Mar 17, 1859]. “My wedding anniversary! Wrote Mamma. Reading “L’Amour” by Michelete. Much impressed with it” [Oct 8, 1859]. “... Gave Johnnie his first lesson in singing and on the pianoforte – a sweet voice he has. Wrote dear Mamma…wonder what reply she will make of it ... [Oct 18, 1859]“Reading ‘Germaine’ by About [Edmond]. Delighted with it…. John reads well after reading “Compensation”. [It] rained. Stopped at home. And glad with opportunity…practiced two hours” [Feb 17, 1860]. “Preparing to leave in the ½ past 3 train for P[ortsmouth]. Mama wonderfully well and in good spirits. Had an unusually interesting reading in Ruckin’s with Miss Eaton. Our last…bless the dear child of light and purity. Trunk all packed by 12…At 3 left. Promised to write” [Aug 9, 1860]. Unfortunately, the life of a wealthy woman in the mid-1800s isn’t all pleasure. The following entry is an example of the struggle Abbie faces having a husband who is not as present as she wishes, with an acute awareness that she is powerless to change things: “...Hanan out again. I should be so happy if we could spend Sundays more socially. I have an idea of how this most peculiar day should be spent. But I never yet realized it. Johnnie went (? ) about Joseph and the servant children. He and I read the three first chapters of Job Eng. Heard [Bishop] Hopkins at St. Paul’s. ‘What shall it profit a man if he gain the whole world and lose his own soul’” [Oct 30, 1859]. [NOTE: She quotes Mark 8: 36 here in reference to her concerns about her husband]. Abbie does not write every day. She writes regularly from January to October of 1859 and picks up again in January of 1860, writing fairly regularly until the end of August, 1860. We know she had her third child, Charles, in 1861. She makes one entry on Sept 28, 1869, when Charlie is eight years old. The entry is titled “Charlie’s duties” and lays out how Abbie wants his days to run. An excerpt from that long entry follows: “Rise at few min before seven…read bible and be down to breakfast at ½ p. Seven…go to the bathing room at fifteen minutes past eight. Go to school…” At the back of her notebook, Abbie records money spent on various items such as writing paper, car fare, clothing and more. She also makes some notes of bills paid and the date of payment. This diary provides outstanding insight into the world of a woman so wealthy she is untouched by the usual challenges of 19th century life, and so immersed in her children, friends, church, arts and culture that she has no need to comment on the massive changes happening in the world around her. The notebook measures 6.0 inches by 8.5 inches. It contains 120 pages and is about 44% complete. The cover shows evident wear marks from age. The binding is sewn. It is extremely loose, The front cover of this softcover book is hanging on by a thread (to the point that it may detach during the packaging and shipping process). The pages are intact and the handwriting is reasonably legible. Minor age toning. Overall Fair. ; Manuscripts; 8vo 8" - 9" tall; 120 pages; Signed by Author. Fair with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0011120

Catalogue: 19th Century Diary

Keywords: Pianist

ANNA BELL (ABELL) CORNUE

1877 Diary of a Very Young, Well Written and Social Wife of a Wisconsin Hog Farmer

Wisconsin, 1877. Softcover. 589.99On offer is an interesting post-American Civil War farming diary, kept by Anna Bell (Abell) Cornue (1856-1882). At the time of this diary’s writing, Anna was 21 years old and had been married to her husband, the farmer Melvin E. Cornue (1848-1922) from Alden, Illinois, for over three years. Anna would die in her 20s, at her mother’s residence in Geneva, Wisconsin, only five years after she wrote this diary. After Anna’s death, Melvin would go on to make a name for himself in Wisconsin, opening a general store in 1888 and working as an assessor and justice of the peace. At the time of her writing, Anna and Melvin are living in Wisconsin near Geneva, and Melvin is running a hog farm while Anna keeps house. She writes complete daily entries from January 1-March 24, 1877 and one week’s worth of entries in mid-May. Her entries are intensely local, painting a picture of life on a midwestern farm around 150 years ago. Melvin sells their hogs and takes great care of their horses. Anna keeps the house and makes detailed notes about both her and Melvin’s work days. Some excerpts: “Was a clear cold day wind in the north west. Melvin and I went to Geneva. I was bundled so I did not get cold. Ma and I went up town. I got me a new strainer and ma got me a wash board the snow being so thin in the road the sleighing is getting pretty rough but we have had nice sleighing for so little snow” [Jan 2]. “Valentine’s Day but that doesn’t interest me much now. Was a bright morning and quite warm thawed quite a considerable..... Melvin hired the carpenter to build the barn today Mr. Austin from Alden $120. I am glad it is let at last. I baked things up today” [Feb 14]. “Was a nice bright day but quite cold NW wind M went to [ ] with oats I washed…I cleaned the shanty and baked some. M got home a little after 4. In the eve, Melvin cleaned up another load of oats. I churned. Vina and the baby are over home. Minnie came up here after some milk and spoons. I wonder if we are going to have spring now” [Feb 26]. “Got up in good season and got ready to go to G. Melvin had a load of feed and small grist went out back and the snow was perfectly awful deep before got to road broke a whiffletree and M put on a line and we finally got to [ ]” [Mar 15]. For a historian, this diary paints a picture of a simple life lived in in rural America mid-19th century. Her entries are complete and, taken as a whole, paint a fairly clear picture of life in those early days. This 1877 diary measures 6.0 inches by 3.0 inches and contains about 183 pages. It is about 25% complete with thorough daily entries from Jan 1-March 24. The covers are in good condition. The binding is only slightly loosening and all pages are in good condition as well. The handwriting is legible. ; Manuscripts; 16mo 6" - 7" tall. Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0011075

Catalogue: 19th Century Diary

Keywords: Couple Farmers

JOHN CUTTS AND ELIZABETH SPERRY CUTTS

1889-1895 Incredible Diary of Husband and Wife Iowa Pioneers with Details on the Workings of Their Farm, Move to the City, Connections to Neighbours and Life in Central Iowa

Grundy County, Grundy Center, Fairfield, Lincoln, Iowa. Hardcover. On offer is a remarkable diary kept daily for over six years by the heads of one Grundy County, Iowa’s pioneering landowning farming families. The authors of this expansive diary are John Cutts (1847-1905) and Elizabeth (Libbie) Sperry Cutts (1852-1912). When their diary begins, the Cutts family live and farm in Fairfield Township, Grundy County. In Libbie’s obituary, she is called “one of the pioneers of the northern part of [Grundy] County” [Evening Times-Republican, 1912]. In late 1891, the Cutts move to the city of Grundy Center for John’s work at Libbie’s brother’s creamery. [FOR MORE ON JOHN & ELIZABETH CUTTS SEE BIO NOTES AT END OF LISTING]. The diary, which covers October 1, 1889 through December 31, 1895, is kept for the first 18 months by John, before Libbie takes over on April 20, 1891. John’s entries focus on his daily tasks, his farmhands, their work and movements, and his business dealings in and around Grundy County. He also comments on his wife and children’s activities. Libbie’s entries also provide details on the farmwork, woman’s work of the day, news on the children and extended family, John's trips for work, as well as connections within the community. This combination of perspectives provides a broad longitudinal view of the life of a central Iowa family at the turn of the century. The Cutts land was bordered by the Hammerlings, Thayers, Wynegars, Thompsons, Krogs, and Elliotts. Throughout the diary the camaraderie and reliance on these neighbours and others is highlighted through frequent mentions of business and personal interactions. The family travels regularly for work and social engagements. Some of the many Iowa locations they discuss include New Hartford Iowa, the NH Mill, Grundy Center, Cedar Falls, Parkersburg and Egan. Some excerpts give a sense of the flow of the diary: “I ploughed all day. Lewis tinkering fixing hogs we pulled some apples had one big sow die think it cholera had 4 pigs die. SPW [Wynegar] took his 2 colts out of pasture” [Oct 5, 1889]. “Had hard wind thunder and lightning and rain in night…Louis here. I hired him from January 1st to Nov 30, 1890 to pay him $168. Henry gone off with his sister he home about 4PM cold…” [Dec 29, 1889]. “Nice day. Pearl and I went to N. Hartford. I eat dinner at J. Paulger. Pearl at Fred’s. I got milk cheque of F. Wells for $70. Home abt 5PM quiet windy. [Mr. ] Converse came out late at night here all night” [Dec 31, 1889]. “Henry took Pearl to school. Snowing. Henry choring he took Libbie to F. Hemmerling to Sociable then to Danville…Laid all day. Libbie rode home with H. B. Elliott” [Nov 4, 1890]. “...I drove Bell to G. Center and commenced to work for J. H. Sperry this afternoon. I went and hired Jap to work for me. I to pay him 14 per month. Henry went to N. Hartford got 200 feet of lumber for fencing. Henry brought Bet home from Dr. Wicks” [April 13, 1891]. “Had our sale today Cloudy and raining cleared off about 11 o’clock and by noon quite a crowd was here. HL Lam and Will Mu got here about 10 o’clock sold all the loose stuff before dinner Sold the horses the first thing after dinner they sold as follows…” [Oct 8, 1891; preceding a full page entry on the sales of horses and cows including prices and who they sold to]Note: The rest of October, 1891 is dedicated to meeting with potential renters for their farm, selling off their possessions and animals before they finally moved to Grundy Center on November 6. The month they sell off their possessions is chock full of names of Iowa citizens and prices of goods and animals. “A nice bright day. This is Joe’s birthday. He is 7 years old. He had a little party his teacher Mrs Granmeyer was here. Mary and Gilly here” [Feb 25, 1892]“I was over to Linda’s all night. They have another girl born about 1o’clock. Mrs. Keen takes care of Linda” [March 8, 1892; this entry refers to the birth of her brother James Herbert and his wife Melinda’s fourth child, Alice's]. “...Got telegram that Uncle [John] Paulger died yesterday. Fred Hemmerling here for dinner and supper staid all night - John to Lodge” [March 19, 1895]. This diary is a goldmine of information for any researcher interested in late 19th century farming, business, family life, land ownership, or any other aspect of life in central Iowa. Following this family for over six years through their diary entries is a treat for anyone interested in human development, gender roles, and community connection. BIO NOTES: John Cutts (1847-1905) was born to parents Joseph Cutts and Mary Hobson in East Retford, Nottinghamshire, England. He immigrated to the USA at age 22, initially farming and boarding with another British immigrant, John Paulger (1825-1895) , and his family in Lincoln County. He soon bought land in Fairfield Township, Grundy County, Iowa and farmed the land. In 1873, he married Elizabert L. Sperry. They raised their two children, Mary Pearle (1874-1945) and Joseph Ray (1885-1914) in Fairfield Township until moving to Grundy Center in 1891 so John could work for his brother-in-law, James Herbert Sperry (1858-1942) in the creamery business. John was a member of the Masonic Lodge and the Methodist Church. Elizabeth (Libbie) Sperry Cutts (1852-1912) was born in Jackson, Wisconsin to parents Lewis Sperry and Celestine Fuller. She was the eldest of four children and remained close to her siblings, as she discusses them and their families throughout the diary. Libbie was a member of the Eastern Star order and the Methodist Church. [Note: the 1880 census indicates Cutts had an adopted a son named Charles from Canada, but this name does not appear anywhere else]. The diary measures 12.5x8 inches. It is actually a large ledger-type book with 201 numbered pages. While a few pages have been torn out, the remaining pages are all filled with entries, for over 190 pages of content. The Cutts have indicated the date on the left margin of the pages. The book itself shows signs of age. The pages are held together by twine and have completely detached from the spine. The spine and hardcover are otherwise in fair condition. The writing is legible cursive. Overall Fair. ; Manuscripts; 8vo 8" - 9" tall; 201 pages; Signed by Author. Fair with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0012266

Catalogue: 19th Century Diary

Keywords: Landowners Genealogical 19th

SAMUEL DRESSER

1859 Manuscript Diary of a New Hampshire Farmer Engaged in Community Advocacy, His Church and Supporting His Aging Parents While Running a Bustling Business

Sutton, New Hampshire, 1859. Softcover. On offer is a fascinating little journal that is absolutely packed with insight into the lived experience of a mid-19th century New Hampshire everyman. The diarist is Samuel Dresser (1796-1868). He was born in Chester, New Hampshire to the senior Samuel Dresser (1763-1859) and Sarah Story (1774-1869). In 1835, Samuel married Sarah Eaton (1800-1878) in Sutton, New Hampshire, where they would settle and farm for the remainder of their lives. They had three children, Lucretia (1836-1858) , Franklin (1840-1845) and Leonard (1838-1930). Sadly, when he kept this diary, only Leonard was still alive. Lucretia had died of consumption only five months before he began this diary, and Franklin died in childhood. Samuel is a fascinating individual. He is a successful and hardworking farmer, a devoted husband and father, and an extremely engaged member of this community. In his diary, he discusses political engagement and advocacy, and historical data supports this, with many petitions to the government of New Hampshire that Dresser was involved with available to view. His elderly parents are still alive at the time Dresser kept this diary (his father would die a few months after the diary concludes) and he is working diligently to find them secure housing in their later years, including petitioning the government for support. He farms his own land and also the land of his wife’s family, the Eatons. It seems their fields are very close together. He also keeps close tabs on his community, regularly noting citizens who have passed on or come to visit. He is also very involved in his Church and it seems he helps coordinate Sunday School programs. Some excerpts give the flavour of Dresser’s writing; “Capt William Kendrick dies at the age of 75 yrs 4 mos 10 days of a long and painful illness supposed to originate from a cancer in the bowels” [May 4]. “Commenced the pasturing of 1 two yr old heifer and 3 yearlings for Mr. John L. Chadwick. And also 1 yearling steer for Mr. F. Rogers. A fine rain commenced – rained most of the afternoon and the night following” [May 9]. “Started an a petition for a town meeting to be on the application of Samuel Dresser Sen. The said town meeting will probably take place June 18th, 1859” [May 28]. “Raining. Nathan Eaton came here into the place about the 13th of this month to his fathers. He has been over the country much and even to California for Gold and has been prosperous” [June 17]. “Still somewhat raining. [Argued? ] with Bro. Luther for the support of Father and Mother through their natural lives. I am to pay him $75 per year while they both may live after the decease of one of them one half of the above sum” [June 21, the next day his parents would move in with the Luthers]. “Mr. Cummings of Franklin came with Grave Stones for Lucretia Anne…Paid Mr. C. $10.00 and 12.00 more will be due, to be paid to Mr. Watson of Warner. Rain in the afternoon” [June 8]. “Cool and windy. Carried wool to S. Shepherd of…London 40 lbs. Came at 42 per lb. 16.80. Carried father down to Luthers. He is more feeble on the whole than ever…. Got in two small loads of hay just at night…Mrs. David Morgan and a little boy came here and returned” [July 23]. Dresser is an eloquent writer who is able to communicate a lot of information in few words. While his diary is brief, his daily activities are so varied and interesting that his words provide a lot of insight into everything from community organizing to familial relationships within New Hampshire, the tragedies of early deaths and the experience of professional farming. For a social historian, this journal offers an excellent look into life in rural America immediately prior to the outbreak of the Civil War. For a genealogist, this journal contains numerous family references that reach as far away as Ohio. This small journal measures 6.25x 4.0 inches and contains 24 pages. The booklet is not a diary per se but rather a “Counting House Almanac”. The booklet was meant to be used as an account book for individuals who had accounts with L. S. Learned in Cambridgeport MA. The cover is a heavier brown paper and is in good condition. The booklet is bound with thread and it is in excellent condition as well. ; Manuscripts; 8vo 8" - 9" tall; 24 pages; Signed by Author. Very Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0011177

Catalogue: 19th Century Diary

Keywords: Death

MARGARET MELICK HALL

1897 + 1910-11 Quaint Diaries of an Ohio Mother and Descendant of Knox County Pioneers Who Writes Religiously Until the Day She Dies

Jackson Township, Knox, Ohio. Softcover. On offer is a pair of diaries kept by the granddaughter of two Knox County, Ohio pioneers who lived her entire life in Jackson Township. The author is Margaret (Melick) Hall (1839-1911). She was born to parents William Melick (1806-1878) and Sarah Beatty (1808-1888). Margaret’s grandparents were David Melick (1784-1867) and Hannah Hankins (1789-1853) , who were the “second settlers” in Jackson Township, Knox County, Ohio, arriving there in 1810. Margaret married Allison G. Hall (1835-1912) , a farmer, on March 9, 1865. Margaret married Allison after the death of his first wife, Harriet (1842-1861) , who was Margaret’s younger sister. Together, Margaret and Allison had five children: Eldora Ella (1868–1956) , Major Grant (1873–1943) , Addie (1878–1963) , Eliza (1880–1966) and Earl (1884–1887). Margaret keeps her first diary at age 58, writing daily and filling the book from cover to cover, from Jan 1-Sept 15, 1897. She begins her second diary at age 71. It covers May 21, 1910-April 14, 1911. Margaret keeps the diary herself until March 24, 1911. She died on March 25 at 4: 00 am, and her diary was immediately continued by one of her daughters, with the first entry by her daughter written the very night of her death. Margaret's writing focuses on the daily happenings in Jackson, mostly as they relate to her husband and children. She touches on her own work as a farm wife, her church and social commitments, local gossip and news (she seems to record the deaths of everyone in town! ) , and her husband’s farming. As a member of the Melick family, Margaret has close ties to Jackson’s early history, and she frequently discusses her interactions with other Melicks. Some excerpts give a sense of her writing: “This is another cold day…we washed. Ally and Bill husk corn in the barn. Bill went to town and got coal oil. Charley Darings had a baby berried [sic]” [Jan 27, 1897]. “...Mages was here Eva was making her black dress. Warden come over him and Mage put a new floor over the well and fixed the pump. Elle and I went out to Rob Melick’s to see their boy Frank he is bad sick” [Feb 13, 1897]. “This was a warm day. Ally went to mill. I went down as far as Add’s we was there for dinner we got word that our carpet was done. Ally went back to town this evening to send the money to the man for weaving of it he lives at Vernon. Silva Wolf had a new girl baby” [April 24, 1897]. “...I sowed some turnip seed we killed a chicken for Lide to take to the Rainrock picnic” [Sept 2, 1910]. “...Mrs. Bender got Lides dress done before. 30 C. Ell and Lide took Mrs. Bender to town. I went to meeting . Blanch Mavis died” [Nov 15, 1910]. “...We butchered. Tom Warda Ret and Andy Mavis helped we killed three hogs” [Nov 28, 1910]. “...Lide is gone to town she took Ell down to go to Utica on the hack. Tomorrow she is going to John Howel’s to work. Lide got home before dark. Down to zero this morning” [Dec 10, 1910]. “...We baked bread and pies and got dinner and supper. Lids made popcorn balls. We got 8 postcards for Christmas 4 from Major and 3 from Ell” [Dec 24, 1910]. “...Sarah Hall and Will Melick was here this afternoon a while. Rol Hall was here to get [money] to hire Sims to preach next year. Mavis was here to rent corn ground. I churned. Lide got dinner” [Jan 9, 1911]. “This was a nice day it was cold 8 above zero. Addie come up home this morning went back. Lids…painted some here to day [written by Margaret on March 24, 1911, the entry is then continued by one of her daughters after her death at 4am on March 25th]...Dear Ma died to-night I don’t see how we can…went down to to Mavis the doctor come…Dale…and Mavises come”. The remainder of the pages are filled by Margaret’s daughter. Here is her entry from just after Margaret died: “...Rick Allen, Jose Blue, Leander M, Mrs. Byne, Wardies and Toms, Rubes, Mack, Addy and Frank was here in the PM. Dave Blystone, Sarah and Baeck, Sally and Grace, Elsie Allen went to Utica after Ell and Mages. At midnight, Jim Melicks, Leases, Glenn Blues Elie Allen was here” [March 25, 1911]. The diaries are both softcover composition books. They measure approx 8x7 inches and 8x10 inches respectively. The 1897 diary is in good condition save for expected age toning, bends and minor tears. It contains 74 pages and is 100% complete. The 1910-11 diary is in fair condition with some small rips to the cover and some tiny loss to the edges of about half of the book (approx 1mm loss which does not impact readability). Unfortunately, it appears an insect has gotten to some of the pages. The insect damage impacts entries from Jan 20, 1911 until the end of the diary. Varying small holesinterfere with some minimal content from Jan 31, 1911 through the end of the diary. Pages 61-69 are impacted most with approximately 6 words on each page being unreadable. Context is not impacted. Please request photos from seller if this is of concern. The diary contains 72 pages and is 100% complete. [Side note: on one page in the 1910 diary it seems a previous owner of the diary was using it for genealogy research as they have underlined some names in blue pen and noted some dates in blue pen above Margaret’s writing. This does not interfere with content]. ; Manuscripts; 8vo 8" - 9" tall; Signed by Author. Fair with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0012270

Catalogue: 19th Century Diary

Keywords: Pioneer Settler Adult

EMELINE KNIGHT

1874-1876 8th Grader’S English Composition Book Kept While at School in Harvard, Massachusetts

Harvard, Massachusetts Mass MA, 1874. Softcover. On offer is a fine example of a student's English composition notebook dating from the 1870’s in Massachusetts. The owner of this notebook was Emeline Knight (1861-1937) of Harvard, Worcester, Massachusetts. The daughter of Jonathan Preston Knight (1823-1891) and Relief Phelps Dickinson (1826-1902) , Emeline was the third of four children born to her parents. She also had a half brother named Preston (1846-1916). Emeline lived mostly with her siblings throughout her adult life. She never married or had children. Records show that she worked as a teacher. This English composition book was kept when Emeline was 13-years-old, in 1874. The work in the book provides fascinating insight into the strict academic standards students such as Emeline were held to during this time period. The first several pages of the book contain a list of corrections Emeline must make on her written work, and includes one piece of writing she has done with those corrections implemented. Following this are three compositions that appear to be originals by Knight titled “The Beauties of Nature”, “A Storm at Sea”, “The Study of History”. This is followed by a poem (no title). At the end of the composition book, Emeline has written a short story called “Death Doomed” in 1876, two years after her initial entries, as well as copied a poem by someone named “Alice”. The highlight of this composition book is a fascinating, lengthy futuristic piece is titled “A Visit To Harvard in 1996”. Emeline notes that she copied this composition from a newspaper but changed the name of the town to Harvard, where she is from. The composition/article provides a fascinating look at gender roles in the 1870s. In the story, a mysterious stranger says, “Come thou O child of fancy and I will show thee the works of a hundred years; Thou knowest what Harvard is today it is thine to know what it shall be in 1996”. With that, the author is in Harvard, MA in 1996. The story goes on to marvel at all that has happened in a century. An excerpt follows: “... Turned to observe the passersby. Swiftly they hurried along the street or entered the shops of trade but I noticed that nearly all were women. Here and there a wan looking man might be seen leading a little child or wheeling an infant’s carriage with a look of almost maternal solicitude resting on his haggard cheeks; …”The piece then goes on to describe a role-reversal that is both amusing in its description and prophetic concerning societal changes that would occur in the United States over the next century. In one exchange with a woman she meets, she comments on this and received this blunt reply: “'Do you not know' she said, that someone must remain at home. It is nearly time for dinner and who should get it if not the woman! ”Taken together, this composition book is an education in proper spelling, grammar and punctuation as imposed in the late 19th century. It also provides insight into the writing capabilities of an 8th grader during that period of time. The copied story about Harvard in 1996 is an asset to a Gender Studies or Women’s Studies program in exploring how the role of women was viewed in the 1870s. This small notebook measures 7.75x7.0 inches and contains 72 pages. The cover and binding show signs of their age with some small tears on the spine and loosening of the pages. The pages themselves have age toning.. Emeline has filled 33 pages of the book with writing in a very legible cursive hand. Overall G. ; Manuscripts; 12mo 7" - 7½" tall; 72 pages; Signed by Author. Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0010056

Catalogue: 19th Century Diary

Keywords: Student Teenage Angst

MAMIE A. ?

1891 Diary of an Popular, Active and Responsible Young Brooklyn Woman

Brooklyn, New York, 1891. Softcover. On offer is a very interesting diary of a fairly well-off woman living in Brooklyn, New York in 1891. The diary was printed for W. G Hitchcock & Co who were importers and manufacturers located in New York City. It was presumably sold or given out as an advertising piece. It is full of advertisements for a wide variety of products. The author is a woman named Mamie A. [Lous? Ivans? ] of 483 1st St, Brooklyn. Unfortunately after attempts to determine who our diarist is, we were unable to do so. We do know that she was a young Brooklyn woman who was extremely social and entertaining many callers, both male and female. She does not seem to work, rather tends to her home and cares for family and friends, including an ill relation named Charrie and another relation named Gussie whose “days out” are recorded regularly in Mamie’s diary. In her diary, she records the daily events in her life including visits with friends, errands done, shopping, family matters etc. From context, she appears to be rather well-off as her family retains a servant. “Today looks like rain. Mrs. Bettie Burr was here to luncheon. Kelsey, she and I met Dr. Burr and wife at South Ferry and all went on board the “State of Nevada”. Dr. B and wife returning home with us…” [May 12]. “Had a hard shower last night but it has been a beautiful day, unusually quiet. Gussie has had a holiday consequently I have had lots of work to do…” [June 4]. “Allie and I came home and Allie made white waist for me. Paid Allie $2 for sewing. Hanna and I called at “Lululs”, Carrie and Mag drove up” [June 24]. “Met Mr. Barber on Bridge train as I was going over to NY. Mr. Burr returned from Lewis River” [Sept 28]. “Pa is quite sick with rheumatism” [Oct 13]. “Cousin Lib came up, Charrie went home with her. Beautiful day. Mr. Faulkner called this eve” [Nov 6]. “Charrie & I went shopping. Went to dancing school with K” [Nov 28]. She mentions the names of several well-known ships that were part of the international commercial shipping industry“Wrote to George. Carrie, Mrs Colman & Bula were on board the “Parthia”” [Mar 11]. “George wanted me to go on board the ship today but as Capt. Sere is sick with mumps. I was afraid to venture as I never had them” [Mar 13]. “George sailed today for San Francisco in the ship “Parthia” This is first voyage…” [Mar 18]. For a social historian, this diary offers a look into the world of a comfortable, middle-class woman in New York City near the end of the 19th century. For a Gender Studies program, it certainly provides a picture of the life experiences of some women at this time. It also offers a link to the days of the great sailing and steam ships that were the backbone of international commerce. The diary measures 8.0 inches by 5.25 inches and contains 52 pages. The covers are in good condition and the binding is intact. This diary is perfect-bound across the top of the book. The pages are also in very good condition. The diary is 90% complete and the handwriting is legible.; Manuscripts; 8vo 8" - 9" tall; 52 pages; Signed by Author. Good .

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Book number: 0011073

Catalogue: 19th Century Diary

Keywords: Sickness Recovery 's Experience

GILLIS JAMES MCBANE

1862-1865 Sensational American CIVIL War Diary of an Indiana Man Captured in Combat and Sent to the Castle Thunder Prison with Additional 1882 Content of His Trip West en Route to Moscow, Idaho

Longsport, Indiana, Tennessee, Richmond, Virginia, Walla Walla, Washington. Hardcover. On offer is the remarkable American Civil War diary of Gillis James McBane (sometimes McBean) (1829-1914) , an Indiana man who served in Company G, 73rd Indiana Volunteer Infantry from July 19, 1862 through July 1, 1865. In this detailed diary, McBane writes of repeated combat under the Union colors. He fought in some of the most brutal battles of the Civil War including The Battles of Stones River, Decatur, Perryville, Athens, and others. He was captured in combat and sent to the notorious Castle Thunder Confederate prison. Sometimes starving, other times pushed to the edge of utter exhaustion, he recorded it all in this diary. [SEE BIO NOTES AT END OF LISTING FOR MORE ON MCBANE]. McBane begins his diary two days after enlisting in his birthplace of Longsport, Indiana, and maintains it (sometimes intermittently) until 10 days after his honorable discharge. He then picks the diary back up in 1882, a few years after the death of the brother with whom he lived, and writes of his journey west to Walla Walla, Washington, which is where he lived briefly before moving to Moscow, Idaho, buying land along Potlach Creek and living out his days as a respected community member. The bulk of the diary is focused on his service in the Civil War. He describes life in the camps, on the march and, crucially, being in combat and the terrible privations suffered after he was taken prisoner. His descriptions could be text to accompany Matthew Brady’s iconic, stark photographs of death and destruction in the Civil War...and then there are the remarkable descriptions of the battles themselves. ? ? On December 31, 1862, McBane was taken prisoner at the Battle of Stones River in Tennessee. It was a battle so bloody that within 20 minutes of fighting, the 73rd regiment lost one-third of its men. He records in detail the battle, his capture and his journey on foot and train with his fellow captors and guards to Castle Thunder Confederate prison in Richmond, Virginia. He was sent from Castle Thunder to Libby prison just a week before being transferred to the Union-controlled parole camp at Fortress Monroe, where he was assigned work as a cook and carpenter. He was sent to re-join his Regiment in December, 1863. In 1864 he served in Nashville and in 1865 he served in Alabama, where he was mustered out in July. The depth and quality of McBane’s entries cannot be overstated. Some excerpts are presented here to give the flavour of the diary, though excerpts do not capture the gestalt of this terrific piece. “...We marched at 6 a. M. Went through the battlefield. The ground was covered with the dead. The hospitals was all full of dead and dying. We then marched in line of battle and heavy firing on our right and left. Went into camp at 2 p. M. Rain all afternoon. Co. G went out on picket. I took charge of the outside post of Co. G. We built rail pen and covered with fodder. I laid down and tried to sleep. Too cool and wet” [Oct 10, 1862]. “Still finds us traveling slow. 30 miles from Richmond. Had one fight in my car last night. Rained all night. 11 a. M. We are now laying 13 miles from town waiting other troops to leave before we enter town. We arrive in Richmond 3 p. M. March up Main Street and stood at Rockett’s [Landing] and stood in the ranks till they find some place to put us. 6 p. M. Now we go into old tobacco factory (Castle Thunder). Plenty tobacco. Draw rations, ½ loaf bread, little beef, mess of. In squads of 20. Cold” [Jan 16, 1863]. "Up early. Cold. Could not sleep. Walk the floor till daylight. Bought tin cup, paid 4 loaves of bread. The day spent hunting body guards. * Rumors [that] Illinois and Indiana [were] going to secede from the Union, clipped from the Cincinnati Enquirer. Cheers the secesh. Gloomy day. I was detailed to bring grub at night. A general row took place with the prisoners. New General in command of prisoners. General starvation" [Jan 22, 1863]. “Go out to recapture 500 prisoners. Rained hard all day. Could not overtake them. March all night in rain. In camp 11 p. M...Go out on picket 9 p. M. Struck tents and take train for the recapture of Athens and arrived midnight in the vicinity of Athens [Alabama]. Picketed till day break, then advanced. The few Rebs skedaddled on our approach” [Sept 27-28, 1864]. “Co. G on picket at 2 p. M. [Brigadier] General [Abraham] Buford [of Forrest’s command] with 4,000 attacked our picket and drove them in. We fell back to the fort [Fort Henderson] and skirmished until midnight and it raining hard. At daybreak (the 2nd) the enemy opened out on us with four pieces of artillery. We responded with our two. We kept up a brisk cannonading until 11 a. M.. When General Buford sent in a flag of truce for our surrender but was answered no. And repulsed by our inferior number (500) and driven from the field. We put out our pickets to bed” [Oct 1-2, 1864]. “Indianapolis. Great solemnity prevails over the death of President Lincoln. Be it remembered the President of the U. S. A. Was assassinated and died this 3 o’clock a. M. Indianapolis in drapery. Speeches at State House at 11 a. M. By Gov. Morton, Gov. Wright, McDonal at 10 p. M. Took train for Dixie. Arrived at Jeffersonville next morn 6 a. M. ” [April 15, 1865]. For a collection focused on the American Civil War, this diary is an outstanding, firsthand description of the daily events in the life of a Union soldier. For anyone wanting to own an authentic piece of American history, this diary takes you into and through some of the most pivotal events in the history of the young Republic. This diary would also be of value to anyone interested in Indiana or Idaho history, as McBane was a resident of both great states. Please note that McBane does not record his name anywhere in the diary. Contextual clues directly point to this being McBane’s diary. This diary measures 6.0x3.75 inches and contains 122 pages. The spine is loose and the front cover has detached from the spine. The binding is glued and sewn and is completely intact as are all of the pages. The pages are in good condition and the handwriting is quite legible. Overall Fair. Provenance: purchased directly from the collection of Sally Ivey, American manuscript collector and podcaster. Ivey partnered with "Spared and Shared", a historical website featuring manuscript transcriptions, to transcribe only the Civil War content of this diary and it is currently published. Sally Ivey has featured this diary on her “Diary Discoveries” podcast, which is available for download. BIO NOTES: Gillis James McBane was born in Logansport, IN in December of 1829. According to a number of published sources, including an article on his passing in the Idaho’s Daily Star-Mirror, McBane was “the first white child” born in Longsport. He joined the Union army on July 19, 1862 and served until July 1, 1865 when he was honourably discharged. Following his discharge, he continued to live in the Logansport area until 1882, a few years after his older brother Thomas (1823-1878) died, when he decided to follow the American dream of heading west. Recorded in a second portion of his diary, he travelled by train and ferry to Walla Walla, Washington in 1882. After a brief stay there, he moved Moscow, Idaho to a piece of land he had purchased. Never marrying or having children, he lived the remainder of his life there, passing away in 1914 at the age of 84. He was a member of the IOOF Lodge No. 36, Cresent Encampment, No. 12, of the Rebekah Star, No. 15, and also of the Major Anderson Post No. 5 of the GAR. ; Manuscripts; 16mo 6" - 7" tall; 122 pages. Fair with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0012251

Catalogue: 19th Century Diary

Keywords: Wartime

IDA J. OLMSTEAD

1898 Detailed Diary of a Perceptive Wife of a Prominent Orwell, New York Farmer

Orwell, New York, 1898. Softcover. On offer is the diary of the wife of a very successful farmer and businessman in upstate New York in the late 1800s. Strong context clues including names of all family members, locations, dates and more indicate this diary was written by Ida J. Olmstead (1858-1915) and covers the year 1898. Ida was born in Michigan and moved to Orwell, New York in 1876, when she married Arthur Erastus Olmstead (1850-1926) [SEE BIO NOTES AT END OF LISTING FOR MORE ON OLMSTEAD]. They had two sons, Frederick Lorin and Orimell Brown (who she calls Orra). Ida was 42 the year that she wrote this diary. The following entries will give a flavour of the life she experiences: “Rained hard all day. Went to Sandy Creek to G. A. R* and W. R. C*. Meeting, a very nice time. Got home before dark. Got pretty tired” [Jan 12]. [The GAR is the Grand Army of the Republic. WRC was the Woman's Relief Corps, the official women's auxiliary to the Grand Army of the Republic]“A nice day and evening. Col. A. D. Shaw spoke in evening at church. G. A. R. And W. R. C. Went in body. Had a reception at hall after lecture. A fine time. A good turnout” [Feb 8]. “Pleasant. Claudia gone to her sisters child’s funeral. Just got word Uncle Anson very sick. Orimel and Arthur went on 11 o’clock train. He died at 6 o’clock P. M. Rained in night” [Mar 15]. “A nice day. Arthur went to Watertown on morning train, home in evening. I went down to Mrs. Nat Stowell’s to birthday club. She is 43 years old. Orra got face filed with powder in eve. Frightened me very bad. Did not see him till morning” [Apr 13], “Orra very bad off. Dr. Low came and did what he could to relieve him. Has a very bad face, eyes swollen shut. Don’t think eye sight is effected. Cannot tell for sure” [Apr 14]. “22 years ago we were married at Clinton Michigan. Arthur went to Utica on morning train and I went down to Camden to spent the day. Home in evening. A very pleasant visit” [Sept 16]. “Pleasant. Went to Richland in afternoon to see Roosevelt pass through on special train. Went to hall in evening to social for Reverend Davis” [Oct 28]. For a social historian, this is an outstanding chronicle of life in rural upstate New York. Ida Olmstead is a perceptive observer and keeps a very good record of people and events. This would be a very good reference work for a Women’s Studies program as it details her daily life and by inference, the lives of her many acquaintances. For a genealogist or local historian, her diary is full of the names of friends and acquaintances, many of whose families would still be resident in the community. BIO NOTES ON ARTHUR E. OLMSTEAD: Olmstead came from a family that was quite well-known in the community. Arthur Olmstead’s father Orimel was a successful farmer and businessman who also served as a county official. At the outbreak of the Civil War, Oramel Olmstead raised a company for the 110th New York Infantry Regiment. He served himself. Our informal research has turned up an interesting story concerning his service. His son, Melvin, was serving in the 24th New York Infantry Regiment. He was seriously wounded at the Battle of Bull Run. He lay on the battlefield for 3 days before being discovered. Unfortunately, he died of his wounds. When notified about this, his father Orimel, travelled to Manasass to retrieve his body and bring it home. Returning to his Regiment in Baltimore, he fell ill and his wife rushed to his side to nurse him but she became exhausted. Administered opiates by a physician to relieve her fatigue, she fell into a deep sleep and never woke up. Orimel Olmstead was subsequently invalided out and returned to Orwell to carry on with his life. He died in 1884 at the age of 78. His son Arthur Erastus Olmstead (1850-1926) carried on his fathers dry good business and farming. In time, he ended up owning over 700 acres of farmland, running 2 successful dairy operations, a chair factory, a cheese factory and an iron works. He was active in his community serving as town clerk and assessor. He was also active in the GAR – The Grand Army of the Republic which was the largest and most important veterans organization made up of former Civil War veterans of the Union army. The diary measures 6 inches by 3.5 inches and contains 183 pages. It is about 95% complete. The cover is a soft maroon leather and is in good condition. The back cover has parted slightly from the cover. A pocket on the inside back cover has come apart, mostly due to the adhesive drying out. The pages are in good condition and the handwriting is legible. ; Manuscripts; 8vo 8" - 9" tall. Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0012230

Catalogue: 19th Century Diary

Keywords: Women' Mother

CASSANDRA SWASEY STEVENS

1882-1885 Diary of a Rural New Hampshire Matriarch Richly Detailing Daily Life in Belknap County

Meredith, Belknap County, New Hampshire, United States, 1882-1885. Softcover. On offer is a fascinating, hand-made diary that was written in 1882 in rural New Hampshire by a middle-aged woman from a well-known New Hampshire family, who marries a prominent New Hampshire Colonel, businessman and politician. Substantial internal context clues clearly indicate that this journal was written by Cassandra Swasey Stevens (1818-1901). Cassandra was the descendant of two important early New Hampshire families. On her father’s side, Cassandra was a descendent of Ebenezer Swasey, and on her mother’s side she was a descendant of Daniel Ladd. In 1846, Cassandra became the second wife of Ebenezer Stevens, a prosperous local blacksmith and businessman. Mr. Stevens was a Colonel in the New Hampshire militia and also served as a Justice of the Peace. He was one of New Hampshire’s electors for “Honest Abe” Lincoln in the 1860 election. [SEE BIO NOTES BELOW FOR MORE ON EBENEZER’S BUSINESS, MILITARY AND POLITICAL CAREER]. The Stevens family lived in the village of Meredith in Belknap County, New Hampshire. Cassandra S. Stevens and Ebenezer Stevens were parents to Alice S. Stevens (1849-1935). Ebenezer also had three children from his marriage to his first wife, Therina Stevens (nee Osgood) , who died in 1845. At least one of his children from that marriage, Celestia, lived with Cassandra and Ebenezer. Cassandra kept this diary from 1882 to 1885, when she was 64 to 67 years old. Entries are not made for every day but there is a flow to Cassandra’s writing and the effect is to give a very good, overall sense of life in this northern corner of rural New England. In the opening pages, she describes how this little book was made by her uncle. After her uncle passed away, she took it and, excising several of her uncle’s pages, used it for herself: “I have just taken this little blank book made and once used by my dead uncle Tim Ladd as a diary. I had cut out what he had written fearing it would some time meet the eye of those that do not love his memory as I do” [Mar 14, 1882]. The opening entries describe her intense worry for her adult daughter, Alice, who is in the late stages of pregnancy, and references Alice’s husband, Henry William Lincoln, about whom she only refers to as “Mr. Lincoln”: “Pleasant sunny day though cold and sleighing bad as usual at this season. Mr. Lincoln just called. Says all well at home. I shall feel so relieved when Alice gets through her confinement…” [Mar 14, 1882]. She recounts an accident with her horse when returning from a visit to Alice: “We have just returned from Alice’s. Went up after meeting. Very bad sleighing, half bare ground and Billy fell down and broke the shafts and frightened me very much…” [Mar 19, 1882]. Alice gives birth to a daughter named Mary Alice on March 23, 1882, and Cassandra goes on to enjoy watching Mary Alice and her siblings grow up: “Mr. Lincoln brought by Alice, Eben [her grandson]…and dear baby [Mary Alice] down this afternoon. The first time the dear little one had been down. Cassandra [her granddaughter, one of Alice’s older children] stayed down last night. It was the annual Rail Road meeting today…” [May 29, 1882]. She recounts the deaths of many member of family and of the community and it is clear she is affected by these: “Received a letter from Mary this morn saying that Mr. Stowell is very sick and the Dr. Feared the worst. Had advised sending for Alice. Oh dear! God help poor Celestia and the girls…His brother Charles is with them which will be a good help and comfort to Celestia, I think…” [Feb 10, 1883] [BIO NOTE: Mr. Stowell refers to Edward Stowell, who was the husband of Cassandra’s step-daughter, Celestia]. “A day to remember. Mr. Stevens went to Laconia. Came home on the noon train about two o'clock. Mrs. Wiggin called, and brought a Telegraph dispatch to him saying "Your brother hung himself today about noon." …Fanny was the first to find him hanging in the barn, and took him down herself. It had been barely 1/2 an hour since he was out of her sight. It must have been a sudden impulse for him as he ate his dinner and then just went down to the barn and done the awful deed…So much sickness all around us, and so much death." [Mar 15, 1883]. [BIO NOTE: Paul Stevens was Ebenezer’s baby brother, born in 1818. Fanny was one of his sisters]. Cassandra is a staunch Republican, which makes sense given her husband’s political involvement (see BIO NOTE below). She writes of her disappointment when Democrat Grover Cleveland gets elected President. Cassandra’s last entry recounts a visit from her daughter and grandchildren and also references her husband, Col. Ebenezer Stevens: “Mr. L, Alice, [ ] and the children and Stella [ ] all came down to church today and stopped to supper. Cass was here – came down yesterday. It was her grandfather’s birthday – 75 years old. She brought him a lamp shade and the other children sent him a cake. Celestia and Mary both sent him handkerchiefs and collars…” [May 10, 1885]. This is an outstanding piece of local history. For a historian, it is rich in detail of life in this small rural New Hampshire community in the late 1800’s. It is also a superb resource for genealogists who are researching New England families. Her warmth shines through and her journal is easy, pleasant reading. It is no surprise, then, that the University of New Hampshire has a substantial collection of Ebenezer and Cassandra’s diaries, which cover years not covered by this diary. EBENEZER STEVENS (1810-1901) BIO NOTES: Ebenezer Stevens was an active Republican, interested in militia matters. He became a colonel and a brigade and division inspector. He served three years as an elected selectman and held the commission of justice of the peace. He was a Presedential elector for Honest Abe Lincoln in 1860 and a selectman of Meredith, New Hampshire during the Rebellion. A devout Baptist, he was connected with the Free-Will Baptist Church as a trustee of the New Hampton seminary. He was one of the incorporators and served as president and treasurer of the Meredith Mechanic Association; one of the incorporators and trustees of the Meredith Village Savings-Bank; one of the directors of the Belknap County Bank, Laconia, and also a trustee of Laconia Savings-Bank. This journal is handmade, using trimmed pages and having a cover made out of a larger sheet of heavier paper folded to form a cover. The pages were then stitched through the cover. It measures about 6.25 inches by 4 inches. The diary is in very good condition, It contains 88 pages and is 100% complete. The handwriting is quite legible.; Manuscripts; 16mo 6" - 7" tall; 88 pages. Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0011152

Catalogue: 19th Century Diary

Keywords: 19th Abraham

MARK SAUNDERS [SOMETIMES SANDERS] STILES JR.

1889 Remarkably Detailed Manuscript Diary of a Waldo County, Maine Public Official, Farmer, Land Surveyor and Family Man

Brooks, Jackson, Waldo County, Maine, New England, 1889. Softcover. On offer is a diary that delves deeply into a year in the life of a multitalented, bright and community-minded man, the Hon. Mark Saunders [sometimes Sanders] Stiles Jr. (1845-1926) , a prominent figure in the history of Waldo County, Maine. SEE BIO NOTES AT END OF LISTING FOR MORE ON STILES JR. From his first entry, Stiles is an exceptional diarist, which is incredible given the amount of multi-tasking each of his days required - where did he get the energy to write it all down so completely? He is detailed, often noting his friends and colleagues’ full names (a treat for those interested in genealogy in the Brooks region! ) , and provides great insight into his work and social life - a very thorough picture, rare for a male diarist of this time. He is also a meticulous financial record keeper, with 12 months of his income and expenditures recorded in the back of the diary. Since Stiles was such a busy man with hands in so many pots, his diary provides great insight into the work of an elected official, farmer, surveyor and family man. A real treat. Excerpts give the flavour of this impressive diary: “No snow on the ground, very nice wagoning and a beautiful day. I am in Belfast today. The Dec turn of the C. C. Court closed yesterday and the Dec. Adj. Turn begins today. The new member of the board is with us - Mr. C. D. Wilson. A new organization is made up today. I was elected as Chairman of the board for the ensuing year. Accepted an invitation to a turkey dinner with Mr. O. G. White the retiring Co. Treasurer. Mr. Payson went also. Mr Payson, Mr. T[ileston] Waldin (Clerk of Courts) and myself bought a couple trimmed rocking chairs for Mr. Thompson the retiring C. C. ” [Jan 1, 1889]. “We met this A. M.. Have had Osborn’s man up to see about taking up the carpet on the Court room, and cleaning and replacing it but decided not to do it at present. Visited the jail P. M. Decided to go to Augusta and consult with the C. C. ’s of Kennebec Co. In regard to tramps etc. Wrote letter to them & also wrote invitations to the boards of several other counties to meet us there” [Feb 13]. “Went to Brooks this A. M. And carried a smoked ham and 8 doz eggs. Got 10 cents for ham and 12 cents for eggs. Got some medicine for father at the Dr. ’s. Called at Mrs. Edwards and made a bargain to build her part of our line fence for $5.00. This PM I sharpened posts enough and selected the top poles for the above fence and then bored some (planks? ). Went up to school meeting at 4 o’clock and they chose L. Rich moderator, M. S. Stiles for Clerk, G. W. Harty, school agent. Voted to have summer school begin the 1st Monday in May and the third Monday in Aug. Voted to build a wire fence around the schoolhouse” [Mar 23]. “Lizzie and Lula went to Belfast with me today, they to witness the dedication ceremonies of the Odd Fellows building, and I to attend to some county matters. We the C. Comis - went to see about the painting the Court House and repairing the gutters on same. A. E. Nickerson came to us and wished to consult about State Constable Partridge’s bill for services being cut down by us. We heard Partridge and Nickerson early in the afternoon. Lula sat for some pictures to day. We stopped at this city this eve to a concert by the band of Boston (open air) and then went up to Frank Clark’s at City Point for the night” [Oct 31, 1889]. “L. D. Moore came here about noon and engaged me to go down & do some surveying for him tomorrow. I went up to Spragues and got my deed of his place and paid him a bond for a deed. The payments are to be made to me $100 per year and int annually til the 5th year which will be $50 & int. Got Frank Fogg to let his boy come to help me tomorrow” [Sept 22, 1889]. “Mr. Sprague helped Isaih [sic] plow for me, over in “Texas” yesterday and today - breaking up. I had several letters to write and I went to Brooks to mail them A. M. This P. M. I went up to J. W. Wallace’s and notified him to appraise the Estate of Mrs. Ann Ricker. They are to do it next Tuesday. Called at Mary Reickeis and made out some Guardian papers. I also loaned her $45.00 and took her note on demand and intrust” [Oct 31, 1889]. This diary would appeal to anyone interested in the inner workings of a local county commission, a legacy farming family, and New England in the 19th century. This diary is also interesting to those who focus on male diarists of the 19th century, as the nature of Stiles’ clean cursive and his commitment to long, descriptive entries is quite unique. BIO NOTES: Mark S. Stiles Jr. Was born in the town of Jackson, Maine, to parents Lydia Kingsbury and Hon. Mark S. Stiles. Mark Jr. Followed in his father’s footsteps, with the elder Stiles serving as a well-loved county commissioner and a selectman of Jackson. When Stiles Sr. Died in 1889, he was the oldest living person in Jackson. Stiles Jr. Married Elizabeth Jane (Lizzie) Hanson in 1885. Together they lived near Brooks, Maine. They had a daughter, Lula and a son, Robert. Stiles Jr. Worked in land surveying and also ran a farm. He was elected to the Waldo County Commission, becoming Chairman in 1889. This diary measures 6.0 inches by 3.5 inches and contains 365 pages plus Memoranda and Bookkeeping pages. It is 95% complete, only missing about three entries. The cover, spine and binding are all in good condition, though the pages are loosening, they are intact. The handwriting is in black ink and highly legible. ; Manuscripts; 16mo 6" - 7" tall; 365 pages; Signed by Author. Good+ with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0010059

Catalogue: 19th Century Diary

Keywords: Government 19th

UNKNOWN MEDICAL STUDENT

1868-1869 Manuscript Notes Chronicling Lectures of Trailblazing University of Michigan Medical Professors Dr. Sager and Dr. Palmer

Ann Arbor, Michigan, University OF Michigan, Michigan Medical School. Hardcover. On offer is a terrific, jam-packed manuscript journal filled with hundreds of pages of notes kept by a diligent medical student at the University of Michigan, detailing months of lectures given by two of the medical school’s renowned professors, Dr. Abram Sager (1810-1877) and Dr. Alonzo B. Palmer (1815-1887). In this excellent manuscript, the medical student has filled approximately 291 pages plus the front and back covers with notes from lectures they attended between November, 1868 and mid-January, 1869. More than half of the book is filled with notes from lectures given by medical school Dean and Professor of Obstetrics, Dr. Sager. The rest of the book is chock-full of notes from the lectures on general medicine and hygiene given by Dr. Alonzo B. Palmer. To learn more about Sager, Palmer and the University of Michigan Medical Department of the late 1800s, see BIO NOTES following the listing. While we do not know who the student note-taker is, we suspect it may be Dr. Charles Tanner Bennett who graduated from the U of Michigan medical school in 1871. There is a signature that we think could possibly be C. Bennett in the front of the book. Our medical student has recorded about two months of lectures from obstetrics and pathology, medicine and hygiene. The lectures given by Dr. Sager are about pregnancy, labor, birth, postpartum, newborn care, and obstetrical complications. The lectures given by Dr. Palmer are from his Pathology, Practice of Medicine and Hygiene course. The Hygiene course was eliminated in April, 1869 so this student would have been in the last class to receive these lectures, assuming it was a full-year course. A sampling of topics covered in the obstetrics lectures include signs of pregnancy, superfetation, syncope in pregnancy, Phthisis pulmonalis, apoplexy, movements of the fetus in utero, extrauterine gestation, fetal assessment, parturition, conduct of labor, dystocia, rheumatism of the uterus, fecal obstruction, deformities of the pelvis, uterine rupture, monstrosity, postmortem, and so many more. The medicine and hygiene lectures cover many topics including superexcitation with change of function, inflammations, healthy nutrition, tuberculosis, fevers. Malaria, cholera, typhoid, yellow fever, influenza, diphtheria, and much more. Notes on each large topic contain sub-topics, discussion on diagnosis and intervention. Interventions include a variety of treatments from medicines to nutrition. There are a few medical recipes in the book, such as the ingredients for hydrocephaloid: “Brandy, ammonia, wine, quinia [quinine extract]”. There is a partially removed page at the back of the book that lists the three reasons why alcohol should be used in the treatment of ailments. An excerpt: “...Whenever the nervous system is exhausting itself by an acuity in excep[tion] of other functions... When it will enable a person to digest more food than without it…”. This manuscript of medical notes provides exciting insight into the lecture style and topics covered by two of the University of Michigan’s pioneering medical faculty. This book would be an excellent addition to the collection of anyone interested in 19th century American medical education, obstetrics, general medicine and infectious disease. It is also a valuable piece of University of Michigan’s history. BIO NOTES: Dr. Abram Sager (1810-1877) was born in New York State. He had a background in botany and zoology, having graduated from Castleton Medical College. He began his time at the University of Michigan in 1842 teaching botany and zoology. In 1847, Sager and his colleagues Dr. Zina Pitcher and Dr. Silas H. Douglass worked together to establish the Medical Department at the University of Michigan, The department welcomed its first students in the Fall of 1849. Dr. Sager was assigned to the school’s department of Obstetrics and Diseases of Women and Children. He acted as both professor and Chair of the department. Dr. Sager was also the elected Dean and Secretary of the U of Michigan Medical School from 1868-1875. He resigned as Dean and became Emeritus Professor due to ill health. Dr. Sager was married to Sarah E. Dwight (1818-1893) of Detroit and together they had eight children. Dr. Alonzo Benjamin Palmer (1815-1887) was born in Ostego county, New York. He taught Medicine and Pathology at the University of Michigan’s Medical Department beginning in 1852. In 1864 he was appointed Professor of Pathology, Practice of Medicine and Hygiene. The course in hygiene was discontinued in April, 1869. From 1869 to 1880, Palmer’s title was that of Professor of Pathology and Practice of Medicine. Dr. Palmer was Dean of the Medical Department beginning after Dr. Sager’s departure, from 1875-1879 and 1880-1887. Notably, Dr. Palmer was the Dean who oversaw the admission of women into the U of Michigan Medical Department in 1870. As well as his impressive career at the U of Michigan, Palmer was also president of the Michigan Medical Society and an instructor at both Berkshire Medical College and Bowdoin. Dr. Palmer was married twice, to Caroline Wright (1821-1846) and to Love Maria Root (1837-1901). He does not appear to have had any children. The hardcover book 8x6 inches. It contains 141 pages of obstetrics lectures and 150 pages of medicine and hygiene lectures, plus notes on some additional endpages and on the inside covers. There are about 5 pages that have been intentionally ripped by the student (no missing content) and one page at the end of the book appears to have been torn out altogether. While showing typical signs of age and wear, the binding is loose but intact, all pages are accounted for and the covers are fading but intact. The spine is chipping significantly but is holding up. Overall Fair to Good.; Manuscripts; 8vo 8" - 9" tall; 292 pages. Fair with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0012277

Catalogue: 19th Century Diary

UNKNOWN

1859 Diary of a Young Ohio Woman Who Takes on the Planting at the Family Farm, Socializes and Travels Around the Region

Ohio, United States, 1859. Softcover. On offer is a very detailed diary written by a mystery woman living and working planting fruits and veggies on a farm near Oberlin, Ohio in the mid-19th century. The author of this diary is unknown. From context, we can determine that she is a young woman, living and working on her family’s farm. Her passion is for planting and she talks of it regularly. A treat at the back of the diary in the Memoranda section is her notes about her annual planting, listing the peaches grown on each tree, the types of pear and apple trees and their locations on the farm, her raspberry yields and more. While our author uses the first names of her family and friends regularly, she never names herself, and there are not enough clues to find her. Despite the mystery, our diarist does a tremendous job of describing the life of a young woman who has embraced her role on the family farm and her young adult social life. Her entries are detailed and quite full. She writes well about daily life, planting, farm tasks, travels, friends and family.. These excerpts will give the flavour of the rich detail contained within the diary: “Weather warm. Sun shines like spring. Last Saturday broke chain I was making. Lorain went up to Adamses to hire out and William was here to[o] to get him. Mr Cawls here wants to get the Theological department in Oberlin endowed. John is back here to work today” [Feb 22]. “Mr. Finley and his wife came here this forenoon stayed til forwards night. Margaret went home with them. There is a drunken coot of a young man after Sarah and they don’t like it. Mrs. Alrop here” [Apr 28]. "Very warm some wind, Feel bad as girls caught some cold. I was out showing Uncle Mills about planting some corn and beans. The wind blowed some. We took a ride at night to town. Showed him the place" [May 4]. “Cold and I have sat in the house all day by the fire wind blows and rained last night somewhere I guess but not here yet. Commenced taking [ ] yesterday. I [ ] up my dinner owing to drinking home made beer” [May 19]. “Cool and windy need fire. Feel pretty well today. Had radishes and lettuce for first time. Mr. Long and William came up here. THey brought me a couple of [] that’s red and yellowish. Sirens in town today” [May 20]. “Cleared off warm in afternoon. Lydia Mary Anna Frisbee and Lofy went on the noon train for Oberlin. Father made quite a fuss to get off and the got there ½ an hour too soon. I had green peas for dinner and picked some cranberries. Mr Lond brought me some ripe cherries” [June 1]. “Rather cold ground is froze some. Father has gone to Fremont on a special jury. Mother got some cuttings of house plants at Mrs. Lords. Mary Ann got a package from [ ] She sent me some chocolate” [Oct 10]. For a social historian, this diary offers a very good look inside the daily life of a farm family from the perspective of a young woman immediately prior to the outbreak of the American Civil War. This diary measures approximately 4.75x3.0 inches and contains 122 pages plus memoranda. It is about 80% complete. The covers are in good condition with some evidence of wear along the edges. The binding is intact and the pages are in good condition. The handwriting is generally legible. Overall Fair to Good. ; Manuscripts; 32mo 4" - 5" tall; 122 pages. Fair with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0012244

Catalogue: 19th Century Diary

Keywords: Gardening Female Authors