ELEANOR L MACRAE

1940s Pair of Diaries Handwritten by a Wealthy Toronto Area Woman

Greater Toronto Area, Canada, 1944. Hardcover. Offering two 1940s handwritten diaries by 61-year-old Eleanor L. Macrae, which provide an outstanding look at life in urban Canada during and immediately following World War II. Macrae's entries are lengthy and detailed, portraying daily life during and after the war as part of a well-off family for whom service to “King and Country” was considered a given. Inside the front cover, Macrae has noted the names of her family members who were at war: her son Donald, serving in the Royal Navy (HMS Diadem) , and his two brothers serving in the Royal Canadian Navy, Bill on HMCS Penetang and John (Bubs) on HMCS Sudbury. “Damp & Cold -- threatening rain or snow. Up to shop in the morning and busy taking down Christmas tree -- went to Gwyn Cornell’s for tea with Lallie Pullen. Delighted to hear from her of Hugh having been awarded the OBE for his services in the Navy. Sis, Mont & I went to see ‘Young Mr. Pitt’ at the Gregory” (January 5, 1944). “Very happy letters from Bub & Gilly. Having a wonderful time in Victoria. Bub is to be in Vancouver working on Victory Loans and making speeches in war plants etc. Filling in his time til his ship is ready” (April 18, 1944). Despite having three family members in combat, she writes the following: “Thanksgiving Day ... Mont had planned for an all day sail but as the weather looked bad they called it off ... Had our Thanksgiving dinner... A very happy day & a lot to be thankful for” (October 9, 1944). The 1946-50 diary is actually a hardcover lined notebook in which she made dated entries. It begins on March 1, 1946. The entries cover the time period of March 1946 through December 1950. Macrae writes in a chronological order but entries are not made every day. Often there are gaps of several days or weeks. However, taken as a whole, they provide an excellent overview of Macrae’s life in the immediate aftermath of WWII. “Up early getting ordering, etc done. Pat & Sis looking at farms in afternoon. Had an early lunch then Mont & I off to Toronto to Gordon Wright’s wedding. Enjoyed it very much. Saw a lot of the younger relatives from Ancaster. Afterwards, Mont & I had dinner at the King Edward & came home” (March 2, 1946). “Bill & Holly married seven years ago today in Port-of-Spain Trinidad. Went over & looked after the children while H went to have her hair done. Children stayed all night with us as Holly and Bill went to the Yacht Club ball at H. M. C. S. York” (February 18, 1949). “Went to Toronto on 12: 20 bus. Shopped & home with Mont. Fun prowling around with my Christmas cheque to spend! Got a new clothes dryer. The tumbler type. $1,850! Awful price but I always wanted one” (January 16,1950). At the back of the journal are four pages listing a variety of dividend cheques received. Ephemera includes transaction receipts for stock purchases, birth and death announcements, and photographs, among other things. Eleanor L. Macrae was born in 1883 in the Hamilton, Ontario, area of Canada. Through family and marriage, she was related to prominent members of Ontario’s early society. The Heritage, a large stone mansion, whose ruins now belong to the Hamilton Conservation Authority, was constructed by a direct ancestor, George Leith. The mansion eventually passed to Leith’s daughter Alma Leith, who married the grandson of a Scottish Earl, Stair Dick-Lauder. Alma Dick-Lauder wrote historical articles for the Hamilton Spectator, which were later published in book form. There is a photograph of Alma Dick-Lauder in the ephemera accompanying these journals. Macrae’s husband was Albert Montye Macrae from Oakville, Ontario, a wealthy community west of Toronto. His family was successful in business and finance, and Montye was no exception. Eleanor’s journal records a number of stock and bond transactions carried out through Macrae & Company, a brokerage firm in Toronto. The 1944 diary measures 8.5 inches by 5.5 inches, contains 365 pages, and is 100 percent complete. The cover, binding, and pages are all in good condition. The 1946-1950 diary measures 9.5 inches x 5.5 inches, is 160 pages and 95 percent complete. The cover is in fair condition, but the binding and pages are good. This group of journals and the accompanying ephemera offer a wonderful look at life for a well-off woman in the years around World War II in a prosperous community in Ontario.; Manuscripts; 8.5" x 5.5" ; 365 pages. Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0010045

Catalogue: 20th Century Diary

Keywords: History 1940s Southern

ELIZABETH HELEN MAHON

1951 Detailed Travel Diary of a Halifax Woman’S Train Tour Across Canada and Into the Western United States

Regina, Seattle, Vancouver,, 1951. Softcover. On offer is a wonderfully detailed description of a classic train trip across Canada in the middle of the 20th century, often reading as a love letter to Canada as it was shortly after the second world war, as the baby boom was in full swing. The journal belonged to Elizabeth Helen Mahon (1926-2020). Mahon was born and raised in Halifax, Nova Scotia, graduating from Dalhousie University with a B. Sc in 1948. She worked in public health and as a registered lab technician. She married Ronald Curtis Lewis, who passed away in 1964, and in 1993 she married Ernest Cavanaugh, who passed away in 1994. Elizabeth had three children. After leaving Halifax, Elizabeth lived in Amherst, Dartmouth, Toronto, Brantford and finally settled in Cornwall, Ontario. Elizabeth was devoted to the United Church and an active member of the UCW. She was also a long-term member of the Canadian Federation of University Women (CFUW). In 1951, Elizabeth was 25, apparently dating her would-be husband, who she calls “Curtis”, and working in public health. She embarked on what is often seen as the iconic Canadian experience – travelling across the vast expanse of Canada by train. On this trip, she was accompanied by her aunt. She travelled west to British Columbia and then south to the United States, stopping in Seattle before heading back east through Montana. Some of the many places Elizabeth stops, tours and discusses at length in her diary include Montreal, Winnipeg, Regina, Edmonton, Banff and Lake Louise, Vancouver, Victoria, Seattle, Yellowstone (Montana). She does indicate that she travels to Chicago on her way back to Halifax, but her record cuts off after the Montana leg of her journey. Helen’s descriptions are well written and offer an excellent perspective of Canada as it was, as well as some nice insight into western USA. Mahon often stopped in cities where she had friends or family and described local tours or excursions she took which adds a richness of detail to her journey. The following examples will illustrate not only the images and impressions of what she wanted to capture but also her descriptive writing. Note that these are just excerpts. Her entries are very long and chatty. : “Soon after leaving Newcastle came to Bathurst and to the Bay Chaleur and saw the Gaspé Peninsula very clearly. High hills looking quite purple with green fields just like squares at the foot and little white dots where there were villages. Some places looked like sheer rock” [June 10]. “...Returned over the Henri Mercier Bridge in heavy traffic and came through west part of Montreal. Many of the Indians from the Reserve work on bridges because they are surefooted at high altitudes. Many work on bridges in New York and Montreal. Return to their little shacks on weekends in big cars…” [June 11]. “...There are a great many very tiny homes, poor looking but almost no tenements in Regina. Saw many different foreign churches, Greek Orthodox, Ukranian…Romanian…Saw many of the buildings of the crown corporations such as Saskatchewan Gov’t telephone Insurance, power etc…Many wooden sidewalks in Regina” [June 18]. “... As we climbed higher above Lake Louise the lake became a deeper color. It really is turquoise, clear when you are beside it but seems to be a solid color as you get higher. Came to a little lake called Mirror Lake. From there we could see the Little Log House way up above. So we kept climbing…” [June 27]. “...The bus brought us direct to Banff Springs Hotel. We really felt “ritzy” in our room which is huge. If this is what the cheapest ones are we wonder what the more expensive ones are like…then we went to the Town to get mail at the Cascade and take the chair lift up Mount Norquay. This chair life is really wonderful the way you just float to the top of the mountain. The view was superb. We looked down on the Town of Banff, the Banff Springs Hotel and right down the Bow Valley the way it flows toward Calgary. Mt Rundle is really a beautiful mountain and no picture I have seen does it justice…went to look around the hotel and discovered an illustrated lecture on the Rockies being given in Mt. Stephen Hall…” [June 28]. “One of the first places we noticed was Butte Montana. Rather a barron looking town from the train…Plateau land, rolling hills, no trees, lots of sage brush, then all of a sudden this ended and there was flat prairie…we disembarked at Three Forks for Yellowstone…the bus took us to Gallatin Inn…This iss a very nice inn run by the Milwakee railroad…” [July 7]. Also included with this diary are 20 black and white photographs. The pictures are of individuals and small groups who obviously were important in her life. One has the annotation “Anna”. Anna was with Elizabeth on this trip. For a social historian, this diary offers a fine overview of what Canada looked like through the eyes of a a young woman on her first trip across this vast country. For a gender studies program, it points to the changing roles of women in Canadian society, prompted by the enormous changes in society as a result of WWII. This small travel journal measures 6.5x4.0 inches and contains 108 pages. It is about 90% complete. The covers and binding are in good condition as are the pages. The handwriting is quite legible. ; Manuscripts; 8vo 8" - 9" tall; 108 pages; Signed by Author. Good+ with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0012240

Catalogue: 20th Century Diary

Keywords: Canadiana Tourism

CATHERINE ELIZABETH MEIER

1903-1905 Diaries and Ephemera of a Talkative Indiana Quaker Mother of 11 Keeping House and Keeping Busy in the Community

Indiana, United States. Softcover. On offer are two diaries of a woman describing in great detail life in the mid-west at the end of the 19th century. The author of the diaries is Catherine Elizabeth Meier (1854-1934). She was born near Bucyrus, Ohio to parents George and Catharine Keller, and raised in Indiana. In 1874, she married John Conrad Meier in Randolph, Indiana. John had emigrated from Bavaria, Germany in 1870. John C Meier was a baker by trade and, after moving from Cincinnati, took over the successful grocery business of his father-in-law, George G Keller in Winchester. Catherine Meier's father had emigrated from Germany before she was born, and Catherine was literate in German. She was a Quaker and an active member in her church community. Winchester had a high percentage of German speakers and Quakers in the local population. Given the Quaker influence, Winchester became a very important stop-over on the Underground Railroad – the secretive route that spirited runaway slaves from the southern states to Canada and freedom. As the mother of 11 children, Catherine Meier had a very busy household and her diaries reflect this. Somehow she finds time to write daily, keeping extremely detailed notes of all that happens to her, her family, and members of her community. Some excerpts follow: “Am very nervous. Did not sleep well on account of Edwin not coming home. Where could he have spent this cold stormy night? My are is better. I cut 2 underwaists for myself, then a waist for Clifford, got all done but the buttonholes. Minnie did the other work. Alma complains of too much appetite. Had a nice soup for dinner. Willie Tisher was here to dinner. Father had me write a letter to S. C. Cramer and send the money for the periodicals. A letter from Hugo. Pa heard that Edwin was going to St. Louis to join the national guards. I pray God be with him! Father told me Aunt Christine broke her wrist” [Feb 16, 1903]. “Minnie rinsed and hung the white clothes up before going to work. I then washed two lines full and the girls double blanket. Beans and a little salad for dinner. I then rested 15 min, then Troy and I went to the farm and planted the lettuce, it was 4 1/2 when I got home. Irene and the Sanders girls went to the woods. After supper went to Eastmans & Prices 5 minutes. Then to the store. Mrs McAllister was here to see about her hat. Alma and Minnie did the ironing. Edwin went to Muncie this morning, he said to hunt work! When will he be back and when will he settle down and do right? Bertha Marlatt married Ira Macy” [Apr 29, 1903]. “I washed dishes until time to dress to go to Union City to the funeral of Geo Lenkensdorfer. At the train I met Mr and Mrs Guthiel, Wm. Lenkrensdorfer and three daughters and Mr and Mrs Hirschand Mrs Study & Karl & George. Heard a good German sermon. Came home about 5: 30 PM. Irene had dumplings for dinner. Pa had 5 loaves of bread ready which I baked, also baked a cake and three apple and teo custard pies. Bathed the boys early. I was almost too tired to undress for bed. Mary Meier Blizzard had a little son” [Aug 29, 1903]. The pace doesn’t change two years latter as she records her daily life in 1905.“Another year begun, who will see the end. Today was warm as spring. At 5 to 9 I started to the farm to get cream. I had not enough to supply. Wineland came to town to his cousin to dinner. I baked 11 pumpkin, 2 apple & 2 mince pies. Had potatoes beef & turnips for dinner. I took a nap then read in Tennison which Minnie gave me last night. After supper I started to mothers but met Minnie who said mother was going to bed so I returned & went to church to hear the cantata “Nativity”. The church was full. They received a collection of 40 dollars” [Jan 1, 1905]. “I got up at 5 1/2, wrung the clothes from the boil. Then the others got up. Had fried potatoes for breakfast. It took me till noon to get the washing done. At 11 1/2 it began to rain, the clothes were not all dry. Wineland was here to dinner. Has beans and pork. I was too tired to wash dishes. Had little help from the men. I laid on the bed and dozed and rested, then took my work and went to Mrs. Hopkins. Grace & Bernard came from school to stay all night. Pa baked 6 loaves of bread, a coffee cake and lots of doughnuts. Hugo pulled teeth for Mrs Sallie Smith. Past 10 and still raining. Some water in the cellar” [May 11, 1905]. “I was sore from head to foot from yesterdays work. If only Pa would give me a bit of sympathy. How much easier all would go! ...” [Nov 28, 1905]. The 1905 diary has a very thorough cash expense record for January through September, giving a very good picture of the costs of many of the daily items needed and used by families at that time. Accompanying these two diaries is a collection of nearly 4 dozen newspaper clippings and ephemera. These also include some invoices for various products she and her husband purchased and a lovely black and white photograph. Although it has no information on it, it is not unreasonable to suggest that this is a picture of Catherine Meier. For a social historian, this is a simply excellent look at the daily life of a busy mother at the beginning of the 20th century. It is simply stuffed with the details of everyday life. For research in Women’s Studies, these two diaries are a superb illustration of the daily life and routine of a very hard-working woman coping with the challenges of raising a large family at that time in a small mid-western community. It would be an excellent addition to any reference collection depicting that time and that place for ordinary women. A genealogist would find the countless references to family friends and neighbours a valuable source of information. Both diaries measure 6.75x3.0 inches. Both contain 365 pages and are 100% complete. Both diaries are in Fair condition with obvious signs of age and loosening of the spines/pages. ; Manuscripts; 16mo 6" - 7" tall. Fair with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0012254

Catalogue: 20th Century Diary

Keywords: Homemaker ' Experiences Motherhood

CHARLES L. MERRICK

1925 Diary of Charles L. Merrick, Whose Family Farming Legacy Dates Back to 1714

Wilbraham, MA, 1925. Hardcover. On offer is a fine diary of successful farmer Charles L. Merrick of Wilbraham, Massachusetts, in the early years of the twentieth century. Merrick was born in 1902 and lived his life in Massachusetts. He passed away in 1995 at the age of 93. Merrick is part of a multi-generational family that has owned Merrick Farm in Wilbraham since the original land grant in 1714. The farm business continues to this day in the hands of his grandchildren and great grandchildren. At the time the diary was written, Merrick was 23 years of age. The diary tells us he had graduated from college and was a member of a fraternity, most likely Theta Delta Chi. At the time of writing, he was working for a company (possibly family-owned) that produced, among other products, sashes. This diary gives an excellent look at the life of a young man just beginning his career. “Very hot. Pa, Dick & I went to Amherst after some business in Amherst. Saw Whitcomb, Daly & Olds about the young books. Got some stuff at the house, left Dick and went to [...] to see the Starkweathers. Thunder showers. Home about 8: 30. Took a look at the strawberry festival. Multigraphed 400 copies of Frat. Letter to Alumni” (June 1). “Quite hot. To office. Some late. Finished warehouse records. At 2 went to see John Murray & Geo Cassidy about Friskdale proposition. Cassidy offers $12,000 & about $1,500 cash and $3,000 in good 2nd mtgs. Looks ok to me” (August 18). “To office. Shipped quite a lot of heavy sash. My back nearly broken” (August 20). “Cloudy. Not too much stirring. Paid off mortgage of $5,000 & then settled payments etc with Mr. Cassidy, finishing all papers; thru with Fiskdale except $6.36 on Taxes” (September 14). This small diary measures 6 inches by 3 inches and contains 122 pages. It is approximately 70 percent complete. The cover, binding, and pages are all in good condition. Several pages have either had a portion cut out or been completely removed from the diary. The handwriting is legible. The notebook contains an extensive list of contacts and, in many cases, individuals’ location details. It offers an outstanding look into the early life of a man who would build on the legacy of his forefathers in central Massachusetts. It is also an excellent source of personal data for people living in this historic part of New England. ; Manuscripts; 6" x 3"; 122 pages. Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0010049

Catalogue: 20th Century Diary

Keywords: Llewellyn Farms 1920s United States American Farmers Americana

DORIS CUTHBERT METZLER

Original 1960s-1970s Collection of Diaries Handwritten by Doris Cuthbert Metzler of Michigan

Dearborn, Michigan, 1960s-1970s. Hardcover. On offer are five diaries written by Doris Cuthbert Metzler of Michigan between 1968 and 1978. She was 57 years of age at the time the first of these diaries was writtenIn her diaries, Metzler details her family’s daily life, as well as specific medical issues that she and her husband, Richard A. Metzler (Dick) , as well as other family members, faced over the years. The 1968 diary is replete with medical references, especially regarding her mother Minnie (age 82 at the time). They detail the type of care that was offered to this elderly woman who would, in fact, pass away the next year. “M. Went for walk and stumbled over rise in sidewalk by tree in front of our house. Fell flat, skinning her knee and banging the side of her head on ground. Well padded. Getting lame in evening so took hot bath and to bed at 9: 45” (December 23, 1968). “V. Bad night. Lost about 4 hrs sleep, hrd to get breath, pain severe. Didn’t call me. Young Dick came in about 12: 30 and they talked, so thought she was ok. Slept toward morning. V groggy today” (June 18, 1698). “DEA Sports night (volleyball & swim). Organ lesson. CU meeting Dick boat meeting” (October 15, 1968). There is a six year gap between the 1968 diary and the next one written in 1974. In that time, there has been a decline in Doris’s husband Dick’s health. She makes a number of references to Alpha Delta Kappa, the education sorority she belongs to, as well as the Credit Union, on whose board she serves. “Wet. Did not bike to ch. Dick a little off color. No appetite. Some chest tightness. Dug up some plants” (September 29, 1974). “Money for ADK Init. On Nov 23. Must be to Vicki Ridge today (5: 50) ” (October 24, 1974). The three remaining diaries continue in the same vein: general observations about Doris’s life and work, increasing details about her husband’s health, and information about Doris’s community activities in the credit union and sorority. “Merve & Harriett dinner here w/Gladys, Ann, Les & Val – had baked stuffed chinook and roast venison. V. G” (November 9, 1975). “Trainable Speech picnic w/ Maxine & her kids” (May 1, 1976). “Dick still not feeling too well. Heart irreg. No appetite. Gets very tired with little exertion” (December 11, 1978). Metzler taught Speech and Language Pathology in the Dearborn Public School system for thirty four years. Her obituary notes that parents of her students referred to her as "the teacher with the wonderful smile." She was an early member of an honorary sorority of teachers called Alpha Delta Kappa. Each diary measures 5 inches by 3 inches, contains 183 pages, with cover, binding, and pages all in good condition. The 1968 diary is 90 percent complete, the 1974 diary is 85 percent complete, the 1976 and 1976 diaries are 70 percent complete, and the 1976 diary is 75 percent complete. Metzler’s diaries offer an excellent look into the world of middle-class America at a time of tremendous growth in the United States, and provide a very clear picture of how the role of women in American society had evolved. The diaries also hint at various approaches and treatments to medical ailments of the time. ; 5" x 3"; 183 pages. Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0010048

Catalogue: 20th Century Diary

Keywords: Association History 1960s

HAROLD JACK MILNES

1932 Sea Scout’S Diary Chronicling His Journey Around Cape Horn and His Life As a Busy Teen Upon His Return to Wisconsin

Menomonie, Wisconsin, AT Sea, 1932. Softcover. On offer is a superb journal of a young Wisconsin man's 1932 adventure around Cape Horn as a Sea Scout, and his experience speaking about his trip upon his return. In 1932, diarist Harold Jack Milnes (1915-1995) , who went by Jack, lived in the Lake View area of Menomonie, Wisconsin. He was a 16 year old Sea Scout at the time of his writing. The Sea Scouts is part of the international Scouting movement that focuses on boating and maritime skills. As part of their program, Milnes and some fellow Sea Scouts had an opportunity to travel from the midwest by train to San Francisco and board the steamer SS West Mahwah. They sailed with the West Mahwah south to Panama, traversed the Panama Canal and continued on a journey that took them completely around the South American continent via Cape Horn. After high school, Milnes attended the University of Wisconsin (Stout Campus). Upon graduation he became a teacher, married Marjory Steiner Milnes, and served as a Sergeant in World War 2. Upon his death, Milnes bequeathed $1.4 million to the University of Wisconsin-Stout in the form of The Steiner Milnes Scholarship. Milnes keeps a very detailed record of his trip for a teen boy who was very busy experiencing the world for the first time. His first entry is on May 25, 1932, and it reads: “Omaha Made friends with the Conductor and Brakeman. Hit every bump in the road but will sleep better tonight”. Two days later, he boards his ship, the SS West Mahwah, where he writes: “Arrived San Francisco and went directly to the docks. Sail on the West Mahwah which weighs 3,586 tons empty and 9,000 tons loaded” [May 27]. They slipped May 31st and his great adventure was underway. He was no mere passenger but worked, standing watches, polishing brass, washing and darning, etc. On their trip south to Panama, he experienced their first storms and sea-sickness. They traveled across the Caribbean and then south: “Scott and I moved in together. We put a bunch of new shelves in and some new hangers. We have to live in suit cases partly for the rest of the voyage. Today we crossed a streak of muddy water in the ocean that extended as far as we could see. [ ] said it was the mud from the mouth of the Amazon” [July 1]. Soon he crossed the Equator and was initiated into the Kingdom of Neptune as sailors have been for centuries: “Initiation today. We were led out to King Neptune blindfolded. He said a lot of hooey and then gave us to the doctor (their chaperone from context) He covered us with monochrome and then the barber shaved us. He painted our face with grease and for good measure covered the rest of us with it. Then we had the kiss the holy stone. They pushed us backwards into a tank of water and called it quits” [July 4]. They stopped at harbours such as Bahia, Rio de Janeiro, Montevideo and Buenos Aires, touring around and taking in what had to be exciting and exotic sights, sounds and smells: “Doc Thompson, Mr. Peterson Jack & I went ashore we went through one of the open markets Then we took an elevator up about 500 ft to the town. We rode a street car to the end & back for a cent and a half. Doc bought a monkey two marmosets and two turtles. He gave then to me to take home” [July 9]. The voyage north up the west coast of South America was uneventful and they arrived in San Francisco on Sept 13th. He spent a couple of days there before beginning his trip west: “...We saw the tallest man in the world. He was 8 feet 91/2 inches tall... Saw ... Bing Crosby in person at the Fox Theatre” [Sept 14]. He makes regular notations about weather and weather phenomena. By late September he is back in school, recounting his great adventure. He also speaks to several other groups. The balance of the entries for October through December are full of the busy day-to-day events of a teenage boy's like school, girls, activities with friends. An example of a post-trip entry follows: “I talked at the East School Mothers Club. Caucus for class officers. I’m Pres. Jeanette Vice Pres…I did a good job of engineering. Hope it works. Bud, Paul, Janet, Marlys, Red, Jeanette Hanson and Stewart were over. We sang till 9: 30. Had a dandy time. Are going to form a singing group” [Oct 18]. A geographer or historian would find this a very interesting description of ports and routes, especially through the eyes of a 16 year old. It is great plot material for a short story Researchers looking for climate data and observations tied to specific periods and/or geographic regions would find this data to be very useful in looking at trend lines or making comparisons with weather patterns today. This is especially the case as Milnes traveled a long distance over a very large and diverse area. This travel diary measures 5.5 inches by 4.5 inches and contains 83 pages plus memoranda. It is about 90% complete. The leather cover is in good condition and all pages are intact. The handwriting is clear and legible. Overall G. ; Manuscripts; 24mo 5" - 6" tall; 83 pages; Signed by Author. Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0012233

Catalogue: 20th Century Diary

Keywords: Seafarers

UNDINE BUTLER MOUSO

1914 Diary of a Missouri Christian College Junior Who Would Later Spearhead the Theta Gamma Tri Delta House and Run Camp Nagawicka

Oklahoma, Missouri, Christian College, Oklahoma City, Columbia, Missouri, 1914. Softcover. On offer is the diary of a Missouri Christian College student who would go on to make an impact in the world of sororities, and become a teacher and camp director. Most importantly, this diarist was widely known to be a pretty wonderful person. The author of the diary is Undine Butler (later Mouso) (1894-1971). She was born in Missouri but moved to Oklahoma, where she attended Oklahoma City High School. At the time of writing, she is 19 years old and enrolled at Christian College in Columbia, Missouri. Following graduation, Butler attended the University of Oklahoma and pledged Tri Delta, becoming a beloved member and advocate for the sorority. She was known as a “driving force” that built the U of Oklahoma Theta Gamma chapter house in 1923 [TriDelta HistoryIT]. She went on to become the sorority’s first state alumnae president. Undine worked as a math teacher at Classen High School in Oklahoma and camp director at Camp Nagawicka, Delafield. In 1946, she married Colonel Frank William Mouso. He sadly died only nine years later. There is no record of any children, nor of Undine remarrying. Undine keeps her diary sporadically through junior year of college and for the first two months of her senior year. She’ll go through several days or weeks writing long, newsy daily entries, then abandon the book for a while before picking it back up. She writes between January 1 and October 23, 1914. She then scrawls a couple small notes in November. Her diary is filled with insights into the life of a bright, lively young woman attending a religious college. Some excerpts follow: “Oh dear! The kids had more fun out of poor old Lydia to-night! She has developed the most terrible habit of visiting Helen every evening after dinner. Helen got tired of it, so this evening when she heard her coming, she poured a pitcher full of water on her through the transom. Oh! She looked so funny but it sure made the old girl mad! She was just soaked! ” [March 6]. “The Christian Symphony Orchestra gave a concert this evening. It was very good - but. Sad to relate, they wouldn’t let us talk to our lovers afterwards, so that spoiled the whole thing, of course! ” [March 23]. “Cut Bible this afternoon and helped decorate the Gym for our wonderful “Rural Party” and it certainly was one grand success! About two-hundred fellows came dressed in overalls and we just had loads of fun in our aprons! Janice, Fred, Bernus and Johnny were all out. I am writing this in the window by the moonlight! ” [May 8]. “Well I have seen two College commencements today! Christian had hers this morning and it was so pretty with everyone dressed in the white silk gowns and caps. Says good-by to dear old CC this afternoon and got into Mexies about 7 o’clock. Bernice met me at the train and after taking me out to the house for dinner, she with several of the other girls took me out to Hardin to the Commencement. I saw Miss Barks out there. And although the exercises were very pretty we both congratulated ourselves on being CC girls” [June 2]. “Oh dear! I am just too happy! I know something is going to happen! Left K. C. This AM. Met Ethel Taylor in Centralia also on her way to Christian and together we pulled in to Columbia again. We came out to the College and found most all of the other girls already here. Jewell and I have Rooms 41 and 43. They are very pretty and pleasant. Went to dinner and for the first time sat at the Senior table. I can hardly realize that I am a senior. The old girls entertained informally for the new girls this evening. There are not so many new girls this year but they seem to be very sweet girls but oh! How grand it seems to be back with the old girls! Crowd of us went to Lorena’s room and visited until after lights and now I’m burning a candle” [Sept 17]. “The lights have winked so I must hustle to bed! We have just come from Miss Hall’s room. She had all of the Seniors down for hot chocolate and wafers after the lecture and we just had loads of fun! “The Lecture” was given by Jane Adams, the founder of Hull House and it was extremely interesting to me. I had the honor of being one of the ushers who didn’t arrive in time to “ush”. Jewell, Hazel, Ruth H and Ruth N and Anne were the other ushers” [Oct 22]. This diary is a sheer delight to read. Undine is so joyful, so very alive as she comes of age, builds friendships, meets boys and gains independence. Undine’s diary provides an in depth look at the Christian college experience just as America was about to change forever with the onset of World War 1. It also paints a clear picture of the roles and expectations placed on young women in the southern USA at the time. The diary measures 5.5 inches by 4.5 inches. It contains 365 pages plus memoranda. It is about 30% complete. The book is in good condition. Covers are in good condition but binding is loose. One page (without writing) appears to have been torn but otherwise the pages are intact. Writing is exceptionally clear and legible. Overall G+. ; Manuscripts; 24mo 5" - 6" tall; 365 pages; Signed by Author. Very Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0012226

Catalogue: 20th Century Diary

Keywords: 's Studies

OFFICERS OF THE IMPROVED ORDER OF RED MEN, MARYLAND TIOGA TRIBE

1919-1936 Set of Significant Ledgers of the Improved Order of Red Men Midland, Maryland Tioga Tribe No 126

Midland, Maryland: Improved Order of Red Men Tribe. Hardcover. On offer are two historically significant ledger books spanning 10 years, maintained by Chiefs of the Improved Order of Red Men of Tioga Tribe No. 126 in Midland, Maryland. PLEASE REQUEST FULL BIO ON THE RED MEN FROM SELLER (excluded due to word count restrictions). The first ledger spans 1919-1923 and the second covers 1931-1936. Each ledger contains the annual Roll of Chiefs, where attendance is kept for each weekly meeting. This is followed by hundreds of pages of meeting minutes, wherein the intimate detail of the tribe’s attendance, discussions, motions, officer nominations, elections and tribe finances are meticulously recorded. Excerpts follow to give the flavour of the ledgers: “...Moved and Sec. Charles Bevidge be suspended from all rights and privileges of the order carried. Moved and Sec we porospone [sic] class initiation until Dec 30 on account of Indusstrial condition. Carried…” [Oct 28, 1919]. “...Moved and second Bill of Brother Jas Albright for one load of cal be received and paid. Carried. $4.25. Moved and second that a committee of three be appointed and work in conjunction with the other lodges to see about getting a doctor on committee Bro Harry Sulser John Laslo James Albright Motion carried” [March 16, 1920]. “Brother McGee reported on Halloween social to be held between Red Men and Ladies Bible class. The committee desires that the Red Men get up an entertainment and Ice cream and all members are requested to bring a parcel post” [Oct 18, 1921]. “Council fire was kindled for the purpose of burying our deceased brother William C. Muir. Sachem appointed. Bros Lindsey, Baiman, Leese and Sarage as pallbearers. Brother Muir died at the age of 81 years Sunday evening July 23 at 5: 30 o’clock” [July 26, 1935]. “This was a special meeting held in celebration of the 37th anniversary and 204 Washington birthday celebration. The order’s Washington Birthday Ritual was used. The slations were filled as follows: [long list of names and positions of tribe members]...At the close of the Ritualistic Service brother Taylor was called on and he read a history of the Tribe, after which the Tribe adjourned to partake of a Banquet prepared for the occasion. Dart Ball (? ) and the other amusements were indulged in” [Feb 22, 1936]. “Committee reported having visited Black Hawk Tribe at Westerport. That an open air District meeting will be held in Westernport Sat Sept 19 carried. Carnival committee reported progress…Moved and Sec Resignation of Bro Hunt be accepted and his successor elected. Moved and Sec we go into election of Jr. Sagamore carried…. Moved and Sec we paint the outside of building for Carnival. Carried” [Aug 6, 1936]. The ledgers are absolutely brimming with names of Officers and Members of this Red Men tribe, making them as interesting to a genealogist as they are to one who studies fraternal societies, Maryland in the early 20th century, or the Red Men more specifically. The ledgers measure 9x14 inches. They each contain hundreds of un-numbered pages. The pages ledgers are custom printed for the Red Men by Labor Saving Lodge Books in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. They contain handwriting on most pages, filling in the printed fields. There is tipped in ephemera and extra pages, particularly in the second ledger. Both ledgers show signs of their age. Pages are in tact but the spines are loosening and the cloth hardcovers are beginning to crack and peel. Writing is legible. Overall Fair++. [Note: Ask seller for a link to the 19th Century ledger of a New York tribe of the Red Men being sold separately]. ; Manuscripts; Folio 13" - 23" tall; Signed by Author. Fair with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0012221

Catalogue: 20th Century Diary; 20th Century Manuscript; 20th Century Rare Book

Keywords: Secret Brotherhoods Colonists

ELISABETH (BETTY) TOWNSEND OTTO

1938-42 Energetic, Jam-Packed Diary of a Freewheeling 20-Something Who Is All About the Nyc Life

New York City, New York. Hardcover. On offer is an excellent, jam-packed 5 year diary describing in detail the life of a young working woman in New York City from ages 27 through 31. The author of this 5-year diary is Elisabeth (Betty) Townsend Otto (1911-2009) , born in Buffalo, New York. According to her obituary, she was the daughter of the late Dr. Jacob S. Otto and Elisabeth Townsend (Wheeler) Otto. After attending schools in Buffalo, New York, Betty worked for ten years in the 30s for Standard Oil of New Jersey, which later became Exxon Corporation. Returning to Buffalo, she was employed at Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Western New York. After purchasing a home near Long Island Sound in 1961, where she could swim and enjoy the beach with her friends, she became a lifetime resident of Old Saybrook, Connecticut. Her ancestors included the late Augustus Seymour Porter of Buffalo, who in 1838 became Mayor of Detroit and then served as a U. S. Senator from Michigan until 1845, and the late Col. Peter Augustus Porter of Niagara Falls who fought in the Civil War for the Union and fell near Richmond on June 3, 1864 while leading the 8th New York Volunteer Heavy Artillery troops in the battle of Cold Harbor. Elisabeth’s entries are detailed and she fills all the lines every day. Her focus is on living it up in New York, and she therefore mention many locations across the city. Some excerpts follow: “Work as usual. All of the girls had lunch at Eliz Driscoll’s. I came home on 5: 03. Mother & Dad arrived. I had cocktails for Dad and dressed. There was the first dance of the season which was fair. I danced with Captain Howe, Russel Cook, Mr. Babcock and Mr. Forsbay. In bed at one” [July 1, 1938]. “Worked as usual. Lunch at Automat. Marketed on way home. Wrote to Dad & Mother. Got dinner, played piano and listened to radio after reading” [Nov 17, 1938]. “Listened to radio, read paper, finished letter to M & D. Played piano. Had light lunch. Called on [ ] at Barbizon and found her out Went to movies at Lowes 42nd and saw “Trade Winds” & “The Girl Downstairs”. Came home, got supper, listened to radio and read paper” [Feb 19, 1939]. “Took my time getting up. Went over accounts with Dad. Swam. In afternoon, Dad & I played golf at Hubbard Heights & enjoyed it. Took a dip. Dad and I had cocktails. I sat on porch after dinner with [ ]. Came to room at ten. Heard Roosevelt’s war speech. France & England declared war with Germany to help Poland” [Sept 3, 1939]. “Lunch as usual. Lunch at Millworth’s. Shopped. Marketed on way home. Got dinner & washed stockings. Went by car to Business & Professional Women’s meeting at St. Georges. Came home at 10: 15, to bed 11: 50. Real summer weather” [June 4, 1940]. “Work as usual. Lunch at Orange Bowl. After work went to 5 & 10. Dinner at Eliz Hynnes. Stopped at Bloomingdales. Came home, listened to radio, played piano and knitted. Wrote to M & D at office” [Nov 28, 1940]. “Up at nine. In morning Ma & I shopped and marketed. I got 2 hats and a suit. Lunch at [ ]. We went to Boston Symphony concert which was very good . Came home. Got dinner. A. E. Bondman came. We talked and listened to Roosevelt’s speech on lendlease bill. A. E. Went at ten. I read papers and played radio, retired at 12: 30 [Mar 15, 1941]. “Worked as usual. From 12: 30 on most all heard FDR speech & Congress declare war with Japan. I lunched at drug store. From work did Christmas shopping at Bloomingdale’s. Went to [ ] for dinner. Listened to radio & knitted. Came home at 12: 00. In bed about one” [Dec 8, 1941]. “In morning typed at Red Cross after taking Jonathon to vet for deworming. Lunch at Howard Johnson’s with Mary Halloman. Came home. Mother left with Mrs. Smith for 3 days at Basses. I did errands, went with Dad to 2 calls. Dad and I dined at Westbook’s, went to baseball game and Toronto beat Buffalo 2-1…”[June 29, 1942]. This is an outstanding record of a young woman who has built a successful life during the war years of the mid-20th century. Full of details, for a historian or researcher into Women’s Studies, it offers an excellent look at the changing roles of women in American society. This diary’s heavy New York theme makes it an outstanding piece to enhance an NYC-themed collection. Measuring 5.5x4.25 inches, this diary contains 365 pages and is 100% complete. The cover is a pebbled leather. The leather is intact but is well-worn. The accompanying clasp is intact as well. The binding is in good condition as are all of the pages. The handwriting is legible. Overall VG. ; Manuscripts; 24mo 5" - 6" tall; 365 pages; Signed by Author. Very Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0012235

Catalogue: 20th Century Diary

Keywords: ' Experiences '

RUTH M. PAU (RUTH MUI-KANG HSIA)

1930-1931 Diary of an ILL-Fated Chinese Educator and Newlywed, Educated in America, Settling Down in Shanghai to Support Her Husband’S Career and Have a Child

New York, St. Paul, Minnesota, Singapore, Shanghai, China, 1930-1931. Hardcover. On offer is the two-year diary of Ruth Mui-Kang Pau of Foochow, China, who spent 13 years in the United States, completing her education in St. Paul, Minnesota and New York City. During that time she also met and married her beau, Dr. Jiu-Ching Hsia, before returning to China to start their adult lives. Ruth kept this diary during the first two years of married life, during which time the couple visited Singapore and settled in Shanghai. To learn more about Ruth and her husband, Dr. Jiu-Ching (J. C. ) Hsia, and their tragic love story, please see BIO NOTES below. The diary begins on January 1, 1930, with Ruth and her husband in Singapore visiting her parents: “Singapore early A. M. Very sick…Taxied to father’s. Hard time to find place. Tears in father’s eyes all day. Saw mother in back room…In bed all day. Called Dr. Hotel in P. M. ”Later in January, Ruth and J. C. Board a boat to Shanghai, China. They are hosted by a Dr. Wu and his wife. Dr. Wu sees patients in the front of the house while they live in the back. Ruth tours Shanghai with Mrs. Wu and other women. J. C. Gets acclimatized to his new job, and they go house hunting. Ruth does a nice job describing her first weeks in Shanghai: “Peking Rd. - dirty with furniture stores on both sides…shops so small and packed full. Furniture and no one to work…in P. M. We went to Ave. Joffre [Huaihai Rd] to look for cloth to make me a warm Chinese dress. No success…” [January 27, 1930]. By spring of 1930, J. C. Is thriving in his new job as Shanghai Sales Manager of American Aluminum Ltd: “$650 worth of foil! He’s taking orders quite often now. Am very glad for him. He…has persistence. Went to have Typhoid shot - 2nd one…” [May 17, 1930]Ruth consistently records J. C’s sales proudly throughout 1930, and often notes how much money he makes as well as the amount of aluminum he sells. Sadly, the heart condition that would ultimately kill Ruth is already causing issues: “...I became sick after they left. May be from working in hot kitchen. After lying down for 20 min, my heart was still beating 120. J. C. Carried me upstairs! ...” [May 18, 1930]. Ruth and J. C. Struggle with a problem many adult children who are educated abroad face: their parents asking for money. As Ruth and J. C. Are just starting out, this is a challenge for them: “...Letter fr. S’pore, still asking for money and said we must do it rt. Away. Made me sore. Father thinks we have the money and are just keeping it. Told J. C. To explain to Mr. Lee our condition and that I was trying to find work etc. ” [May 26, 1930]. The requests for money are compounded by relatives coming to stay with the newlyweds, such as J. C. ’s uncle, who stays for months and causes Ruth much financial stress. In July of 1930, Ruth writes that their bank suddenly closed - fortunately they did not have much money deposited - averting catastrophe for the family. Ruth works for the Wu family’s restaurant until she gets a job teaching, which is her chosen field. She and J. C. Both work and Ruth does the majority of the homemaking. In February of 1931 Ruth tells her diary she is pregnant. She is high-risk due to her pre-existing heart condition. Ruth spends most of 1931 feeling awful, and her physician is not comfortable with her pregnancy or the thought of her labouring: “April 13, 1931 - “Cold almost done. To sch. Again after [ ] vacation. Made appt. With Dr. Arllerton (? ) for 5: 30 [ ] J. C. Could go with me. Saw her. Tall, grey haired…woman. Not friendly. “We’ll let you go on with this pregnancy. [ ] she’d affect you. We can terminate it at any time. You’ll need artificial help in delivery. ” Not wise for me thru labor. Heart bad. Muscles of head strong. ” [April 13, 1931]. Early pregnancy is tough on Ruth. Her Memoranda for April 1931 reads, in part: “Heart very bad. Extra beats. Sometimes missed a beat or two. Even J. C. C’d [sic] hear my heart beat when lying beside me in bed”. Ruth continues working at the school as long as possible, but finds it challenging. She always keeps up with the news of the day and notes : “...Have to work now because I have to head home so often [] finding it hard to breathe. Usually I do nothing during 1st part of A. M. Paper today says [Thomas] Edison died yest. [sic]! J. C. Brot [sic] home package fr. Sarah- blankets [ ] etc. He also had $5.32 worth of paper, brushes etc. For this classmate of his who wrote him a long time ago that it was his duty to support the family! J. C. Sent $ in May” [October 19, 1931]. Ruth’s final entry is on October 22, 1931. Her son, John I-Sheng Hsia would be born four days later, on October 26. We know that Ruth dies of her heart condition in March, 1936. Ruth’s diary is a treasure. It is a treat to follow a young couple with such a rich Chinese-American history [See BIO NOTES BELOW] and experience the first two years of their newlywed life. Ruth and J. C. ’s story is one of enduring love, hard work, hope and perseverance. A must-have for anyone who studies the experience of international students moving back to their country of origin after graduation, as well as a deep look into the life of a woman with chronic illness who fights for a normal life against all odds. Ruth does not write every day, but when she does write it is in a tiny but legible hand and very descriptive. Ruth keeps this diary from Jan. 1, 1930 through Oct. 22, 1931. The 5-year diary measures 5.5"x4.5", has 365 pages plus memoranda sections and is about 25% complete. The cover is a soft leather and is intact with some signs of wear present. Pages have some age toning present. There is a clasp which has been opened and no key. The spine is in fine condition though the pages are pulling away from the spine but still intact. Overall G. BIO NOTES ON RUTH M. PAU & DR. JIU CHING (J. C. ) HSIA: Ruth Mui-Kang Pau (1901-1936) was born in Foochow, China 1901, and later lived in Singapore with her family. In 1916 she traveled to the United States with her teacher, Dr. Ruth E. Atkins, under whom she had studied at the Suydam School for Girls at Malacca in the Straits Settlement, China. Ruth and Dr. Atkins traveled on the SS Nipon Maru from Nagasaki, Japan. They arrived at a port in San Francisco, California and made their way to Dr. Atkins’ home in St. Paul, Minnesota and lived with Dr. Atkins. Ruth completed St. Cloud Teacher’s College in 1923, a Bachelor of Science from the University of Minnesota in 1927, and a Master of Arts in Education and Psychology from New York University in 1929. While in graduate school, Ruth met her future husband, Dr. Jui Ching (J. C. ) Hsia. Dr Hsia was also born in China. He came to New York for graduate school and completed his doctorate degree in education at Columbia University. On August 29, 1929, Ruth and Jiu Ching married in St. Paul, Minnesota. Dr. Hsia had an exciting job offer as the Shanghai Sales Manager of American Aluminum Ltd. Following their wedding, Ruth and J. C. Honeymooned in the United States and set sail for Asia in October, 1929. They would first stop in Singapore to spend time with Ruth’s parents, before heading to their final destination in China. In 1931, Ruth gave birth to a son named John I-Sheng Hsia. Sadly, Ruth suffered from a heart condition and passed away on March 6, 1936, before John I-Sheng’s fifth birthday. Ultimately, both John I-Sheng and his father returned to the USA, with the support of Dr. Atkins. John I-Sheng would become an engineer, graduating from MIT and would marry Constance Ross Turner, a Harvard graduate and architectural designer. Ruth would have been so very proud. ; Manuscripts; 24mo 5" - 6" tall; 365 pages; Signed by Author. Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0012003

Catalogue: 20th Century Diary; 20th Century Manuscript; 20th Century Rare Book

Keywords: Minessota

ARTHUR OSGOOD PHINNEY

1938 in Depth Work Log Book of Episcopal Reverend and Youth Leader Arthur o. Phinney on Running Youth Programs, Church Recruitment and More

Watertown, MA, 1938. Softcover. On offer is a notebook used to record notes on his work, kept by the National Director of a large, Episcopal church-based youth program in the mid-20th century. The notebook belonged to the Reverend Arthur Osgood Phinney (1892-1978). Phinney was an Episcopal Archdeacon and National Executive Secretary of youth programs within the church, running camps and conferences. He also traveled frequently to the 80 dioceses across the USA, promoting new methods of Christian education. Prior to his work in the church, Phinney served in the US Army in France as an ambulance driver in the American Field Service. He married Lucile Flagg, and together they had three boys: Frederick, Arthur and William. At the time Phinney kept this notebook, he was National Director of the Order of Sir Galahad, having been elected in 1937 [SEE NOTES ON THE ORDER OF SIR GALAHAD FOLLOWING LISTING]. On the cover of the book, Phinney has listed priorities related to his youth department: “NY Leader’s Meeting…Lecture for…School…National Galahad Conference June 9, 10, 11 1939”. The notebook provides a comprehensive look at Phinney’s work in the year 1938. It is not always linear, as he clearly used this as a work journal. A large portion is devoted to his youth ministry as Director of the Order. It contains names, addresses, guidelines for various aspects of his ministry, etc. He makes extensive notes about the projects he is working on for the youth programs for which he is executive secretary. Some topics he notes include Counsellor Training, Provincial Officers Addresses, Camp Director’s Seminar, Suggestions for [Camp] O-AT-KA 1939, [Objectives of the] Dept on Youth Divis of Mass, Wednesday Afternoon Conference (notes about what the youth would be interested in and topics to cover) , Leadership Training Group, What is Expected of [Youth] Members Outside of the Church, Evaluation Charts, Pamphlets, Youth Rally, and so much more. This journal is full of Phinney’s notes about how to run youth programming in the year of 1938, looking toward a summer of youth camps in 1939. His notes are in-depth, lay out expectations of the youth, teaching plans, plans for executive meetings, and state the purpose of his ideas. It is clear from this book that Phinney was deeply devoted to helping young people be good Christians and this book demonstrates how he did this. This journal could be used by any organization to guide the development of successful courses and programs for youth. One small example is how he outlines a detailed curriculum for a Leadership Course for youth. While this section is many pages, an excerpt is provided where he notes General Requirements For Christian Leaders: “a) Consecration to the task, b) Social adjustability, c) Some special skill, d) Some way of self-evaluation plus a method by which others may evaluate his work”. The final eight pages of the notebook contain a lecture to Canvassers for the Church, which he gave at The Church of the Good Shepherd in Watertown, MA in 1938. He addresses people who go out from their parish into their communities to recruit or enroll members. He openly draws from sales ideas of his time – a time that was well-known for door-to-door sales. For a social historian, this notebook offers an excellent tool to compare principles of youth organizations in the 1930’s with those of today. The challenges regarding youth were very different in 1938 but no less daunting. Of course one thing a social historian would note immediately is that there are no references to girls – they were invisible. ABOUT THE ORDER: The Order of Sir Galahad was an organization for Anglican and Episcopal boys and men, founded in Boston in 1896 by the Reverend Ernest J. Dennen. The Order's activities were structured around Galahad in Arthurian legend. It was a well-structured organization and its purpose was to reach boys at a time when the club idea loomed big in a boy’s mind. It’s goal was to interpret religion to boys in the forms of recreation and other interests. Twelve years later, to aid in that goal, Dennen established a camp in rural Maine called Camp O-ATKA. Today, 113 years later, Camp O-AT-KA continues to flourish and is the oldest continuously-run residential summer camp for boys in the United States. It is located in Sebago, ME. This notebook measures 8.0x5.0 inches and contains 122 pages. The notebook is about 80% complete. The covers are in very good condition and the spine is wire-coil bound. The pages are in good condition and the writing is legible. ; Manuscripts; 8vo 8" - 9" tall; 122 pages; Signed by Author. Good with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0012229

Catalogue: 20th Century Diary

Keywords: Minister

DORA J. BRADBURY PINKHAM

1910-1914 Diary of a Remarkable Mount Holyoke and Columbia Graduate Who Would Make History As Maine’S First Female State Legislator and Senator

Maine, Usa, 1910-1914. Hardcover. On offer is the five-year diary of Dora J. (Bradbury) Pinkham (1891-1941) of Fort Kent, Maine. Dora kept this diary while completing her undergraduate degree at Mount Holyoke College (graduated 1913) and her Master’s degree at Columbia University (graduated 1914). Less than a decade after graduation, she made political history and became a pioneer for women in politics in the state of Maine (see BIO NOTES following the diary description). Dora’s entries throughout her post-secondary education show her to be devoted to Christ, her music, sport, and expanding her mind. She attends lectures outside of school hours on a range of topics, studies incessantly, is an available friend and daughter, and makes space for her passions for music and sport when possible. She seizes opportunities, such as joining the college debate team. It is no wonder she made a political splash a few years later and changed the landscape of Main politics for generations of women to come. Everything Dora writes in her college years offers a window into the woman the Sun Journal would describe, in 1923 when she entered the Maine legislature the following way: “[She has] a cheery smile, a laughing kind of voice, can see a joke and is decidedly human in every way”. At the tender age of 18, Dora was already keeping an eye on politics: “A Democratic landslide. First Dem. Governor elected in 30 yrs, when this Plaisted’s father was governor…” [Sept 13, 1910, Dora is referring to the election of Governor Frederick William Plaisted, whose father had been governor from 1881-1883]. “Election day - College vote. Wilson 43, Roosevelt, 180, Taft, 160…the results of the real election. Wilson’s landslide! Took Jennie Lewis to the Senior-Freshman [reception]. Good time” [Nov 5, 1912]. She does a nice job describing student life at Mount Holyoke College. Her time there was focused on academics, music rehearsals (she played the banjo, of all things, and was in glee club) and performances, hockey and Christianity: “Rev E. Paddock spoke in chapel on “as your day is so shall your strength be”. Hate to think I won't see him again for a year or maybe more. English Exam in A. M...Not so bad. Studied Math in P. M. In little room D. H. Botany in eve. Postcard from Sadie” [Jan 31, 1910]. “Mountain Day…Miss Bridges invited all her advisees to breakfast…the Holyoke ranges, 23 peaks, miles ? Took us over 3…Home at 4: 30…” [Oct 12, 1910]. “Structure paper back. Favorable criticism for which I was wisely prepared by Miss Lester. “Good understanding ... Discrimination and rigor of thought “. Mission committee meeting at nine. Was able to play hockey today” [Oct 13, 1911]. Dora completed her Master’s of Arts at Columbia in only one year and she seems to be too busy to keep a diary for much of it. As her career at Columbia ends and her professional life begins, she is sure to record it: “Went to work! Everybody very nice to me. Lots of nice oldish men there, wildly interesting young woman next to me, Miss Miladolfsky. Went to work on lowly wages…got so I could turn the crank quite some. Requires too much thought! ” [May 11, 1914]. “Studied an hour and a half and did exam…all over now! Doing proof-reading in the office - very tiring” [May 21, 1914] This diary is a gem. Through it we learn the roots of a brave, bold and unique woman who chose to enter politics as a Republican in the early 20th century. Learning about the ambitious, hardworking, engaged young woman Dora was allows us a window into who she became. This diary is also a precious piece of history for those interested in the earlier days of Mount Holyoke College and Columbia University. DORA JULIA BRADBURY PINKHAM BIO NOTES: Dora J. Bradbury Pinkham was born in New Limerick, Maine, and raised in Fort Kent. She married Niles Pinkham, a lumber industry executive, in 1917. Following graduation she briefly taught at Madawaska Training School. A long-time member of the Republican State Committee, she ran for state legislature and, in 1922 she defeated two-term Democrat William J. Audiber. Pinkham was the first woman to win election to the Maine’s legislature. Remarkably, Pinkham was not only a Republican but also a “Yankee Protestant” while her district was known to be “overwhelmingly Democratic, Franco American and Catholic” (Potholm, 2011, p. 115). While she was a one-term member of the legislature, she made an impact, passing five of six bills she sponsored in the Maine House of Representatives. In 1926 her political star rose higher when she became one of the first two women ever elected to the Maine senate. Following her two terms in the Senate, Pinkham served as special secretary to Maine Governor William Tudor Gardiner. She was very active in her community and the state serving as the local Chairman for the Red Cross. There is much information available on Dora Pinkham, but this article from the Sun Journal helps the reader to know who Dora was as a person as well as a politician: https: //www.sunjournal.com/2023/01/22/when-dora-pinkham-took-office-as-maines-fir st-woman-lawmaker-a-century-ago-the-journal-predicted-a-lot-more-by-2023/ The diary measures 7.75 inches by 5.0 inches and contains 365 pages. The covers have separated from the spine. The pages are in good condition. Dora writes regularly in 1910 through 1912, her entries becoming more scarce in 1913 and she only writes in May of 2014. The diary is about 65% complete. The handwriting is legible. Overall Fair. ; 12mo 7" - 7½" tall; 365 pages; Signed by Author. Fair with no dust jacket .

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Book number: 0010311

Catalogue: 20th Century Diary

JOHN NELSON PITTS AND MINNIE R. WELLS PITTS

1913 and 1924 Diaries of a Farmer and His Wife Exploring the Male and Female Perspectives of a Tough Life of Work and Community in Wayne County, New York

WAYNE COUNTY, NEW YORK, BUTLER, WOLCOTT. Softcover. On offer are two diaries, written just over a decade apart by a Wayne County, New York farmer and his wife. The pair of diaries present the busy and thankless lives of early 20th century farmers from both the male and female perspective. The authors of these diaries are a husband and wife duo, John Nelson Pitts (1875-1961) and Minnie R. Pitts (nee Wells) (1874-1957). John was born in Butler, New York and lived near Wolcott, New York for his entire life, dying in Huron. Minnie was also born and spent her life in Wayne County. They married in 1904 and did not have any children. The 1913 diary was written by John, when the couple is in their late-30s. The 1924 diary was kept by Minnie, when they are in their late-40s. John’s 1913 diary details the day-to-day workings of his farm. His entries are short and sweet, but very consistent. He writes every single day in 1913 and adds additional notes about his work days in the Memoranda section. Some excerpts of John’s diary follow: “Cloudy & squally. I picked up around the A. M. And we cut wood this P. M. Snowy in the eve” [Jan 27, 1913]. “Fine and cool. I sowed grass seed this A. M. And helped Elmer cut wood P. M. ” [Apr 9, 1913]. “Fine and cool. I [ ] the orchard and helped Elmer in P. M. We Minnie and I went and got the new rake. Fine eve” [July 15]. “Fair and warm. I cut corn today for myself. Minnie helped this P. M. Cool eve” [Sept 19, 1913]. “Fine and cool. I husked corn and chores. Min washed and is cross” [Nov 25, 1913]. Minnie’s 1924 diary is equally as consistent as John’s. She writes every single day and her entries are very detailed. She is the quintessential farmer’s wife and it is plain to see that she is a very busy, hard-working woman. Some excerpts follow: “Cold this morn 6 above zero. Bright all day. Cold west wind. We over to G. Fowler’s this A. M. And I washed this P. M. - J cleaned out smoke house” [Feb 18, 1924]. “Snow squalls and flurried all day. Wet and nasty time. I made birthday cake for John on his birthday tomorrow. M and Lewie here in P. M. And I passed a lunch. Fire in furnace felt good” [Apr 20, 1924]. “46 [degrees] this morn – fair today and cool. I washed, picked cucumbers and stuff from garden. Wella boys called at noon. Deetz’s goods came this P. M. 5 truck loads. J. Plowing and drew some hay. Still cool this eve” [Sept 4, 1924]. “Rained all day today – J choring around & he & Chas fixed she to put roosters in – J put hogs in pen in P. M. And I crocheted. Chas laid down in P. M. Dixie cow has a little calf this eve” [Sept 30, 1924]. For a social historian, these two diaries give an excellent look at how this couple managed their farm. It also shows very clearly the division of labour and the clear gender roles of the people involved. For a Gender Studies program, this would be a very good illustration of how these played out at this time in rural America. The 1913 diary measures 5x3 inches and contains 182 pages. It is 100% complete and is in overall Fair condition. The 1924 diary measures 5.5x2.5 inches and contains 52 pages. It is 100% complete and in overall Good condition, save for some staining on the pages. ; Manuscripts; 8vo 8" - 9" tall; Signed by Author. Very Good .

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Book number: 0011140

Catalogue: 20th Century Diary

Keywords: Farming Family

MARVIN WILLIAM POPKIN

1929 Diary of a Teenage Boy Scout Who Would Eventually Storm a Beach in Normandy and Become a Respected Pennsylvania Entrepreneur

Reading, Pennsylvania, PA, 1929. Softcover. On offer is a rare deep dive into the mind of a teenage boy in the interwar years through the jam-packed Boy Scouts of America diary kept by 15-year-old Martin William Popkin (1914-2008). Popkin was a 15 year old boy who was born in New York and grew up and lived in Reading and Allentown, Pennsylvania. He joined the Boy Scouts when he was 14 and his diary keeps a careful record of his accomplishments. In his later years, Popkin became the editor of his high school newspaper in Reading. He became an Eagle Scout and later on an extraordinary photographer. He had the good fortune to be able to travel the world, visiting 110 countries throughout his life. When World War II broke out, he joined the Army at 28 years old in November, 1942. He was shipped off to England on the Queen Mary. Marvin participated in the invasion of Normandy at Utah Beach. On December 31, he was honorably discharged as a Captain in the corp. Of engineers. After the war ended he settled in Allentown where he built a successful surgical supply business. He had one daughter named Marjie. His diary is chock full of the things that would matter to a 15 year old boy – things like school, social life and fun activities. However, Popkin spends a great chunk of his time working toward his Boy Scout badges and working. He records the badges he receives and when he reaches new ranks in the Boy Scouts. He also reports on his work and income on occasion. Some excerpts follow: “Up at 8: 30. Went over to school and then up to Sr. H. S. Sat around and talked to girls. Ate lunch and watched ‘kids’ practice senior play. Saw B. Miller. Ate supper and went to Troop 13’s meeting. Was put in Lion patrol. Was to meet with Leaders. Came home with Russell Shull. Went to bed at 10: 05” [Jan 21]. “Got 70 in Latin. Got sent to detention for throwing rubber. Played baseball. Determined to become Life Scout. In bed at 12: 00” [May 9]. “Got up and put on my new suit Its a close knitted gray. Went to Philadelphia. Stayed at the Weinrachs. Had a nice time. Athletics won the World Series Had a good ride home. In bed at 10: 00” [Sept 15]. “Walked 6 1/4 miles. Had to run 2 blocks Had my basketry paper signed. Passed remainder of Athletics Badge. Am now a Life Scout. Have 39 Merit Badges. In bed at 9: 30” [Nov 6]. “...Am satisfied with this year for my health and that of all my scout advancement & I hope my next year school work will be much better and I hope I pass all my subjects. Am glad I was able to keep diary and hope I will continue to do so. I am thankful for a [ ] of success” [Dec 31]. The diary also has nearly 100 additional pages of Boy Scout memoranda. These include first aid tips, signaling, information about plants and wildlife, safety on the road, etc. Popkin has added notes to some of these pages including keeping careful track of his finances, and adding notes about the Boy Scouts. For a social historian, this diary provided a detailed look into the life of a 15 year old boy during the inter-war years. While we have a lot of diaries written by young women, a complete and consistent record of a young gentleman is less common, particularly given how legible Popkin’s writing is throughout! This diary is detailed and shows how important the Boy Scouts youth program was to this teenager. It opens a fascinating window into a world so often closed to adultsThe diary measure 5.0 inches by 2.5 inches. It contains 122 pages and is 100% complete. It also has many many more pages of information and explanations, as one would expect in a Boy Scouts diary. The covers are in good condition. The binding is intact but loose and there is wear damage on the spine. The pages are in good condition and the handwriting is legible. ; Manuscripts; 8vo 8" - 9" tall; 122 pages; Signed by Author. Fair with no dust jacket .

Katz Fine ManuscriptsProfessional seller

Book number: 0012224

Catalogue: 20th Century Diary

Keywords: American Man'

PEGGY PUGH

1986 Detailed Diary of a Visit to Cold War Ussr (Soviet Union) Kept by an Observant Louisiana Educator

Moscow, Russia, Ussr, Soviet Union: Cold War Russia, Soviet Union, USSR, Travel Diary, 1986. Hardcover. On offer is an interesting travel journal of an American couple who travelled to the Soviet Union during the Cold War, a time of intense circumstances between the USA led by Ronald Reagan and the Soviet Union, led by Mikhail Gorbachev, the General Secretary of the Soviet Union. The author of the journal is Peggy Jean (Andrews) Pugh (1929-2003) [SEE BIO NOTES FOLLOWING LISTING]. In February 1986, she and her husband joined a tour group to take a trip to the Soviet Union. This was a time of intense negotiations between the USA and USSR. The Soviet government had changed and the Geneva Summit of Nov 1985 had successfully concluded. Rhetoric was toned down (no more talk of an ‘evil empire’). The U. S and NATO had proposed a joint reduction in conventional force levels in Europe. It was into this geopolitical environment that the Pugh’s decided to visit the Soviet Union. The first eight pages of the journal include Peggy’s detailed explanation of their journey to the USSR. Which occurred on February 23-24, 1986. Her group flew from Houston, Texas to Leningrad (St. Petersburg) via New York and Shannon, Ireland. Once in the USSR, Peggy immediately begins to describe life in the Soviet Union by way of explaining her hotel accommodations: “...We had been counseled about facial and toilet tissue. The one lacking and the other interesting, so we came prepared…overly so. The Cosmos was also built for the 1980 Olympics houses 3,500 guests. Internal shops - Barioshka sell every souvenir from full length mink to hand crafted baubles. There are only foreigners in the shops. Apparently Russians are discouraged (see later note) from shopping there. No one else is…some of the hotel’s restaurants serve only foreign guests”. Peggy lists highlights of her trip as including a Moscow city tour, Pioneer Palace, Bolshoi Theater, and Moscow Metro. Once in the USSR, with their group, they toured the city before going on to Leningrad. Unfortunately, the tour was not without its issues: “...Tanya informs us, much to our great dismay, that the Communist Party is having its congress - a once each five years occasion. The entire Red Square Kremlin area off limits to the city’s million every day foreign and USSR guests. Moscow has a population of 8.5 million. We had looked forward to forward to that tour…”. The tour began in earnest on Feb 25th. Peggy describes what her group eats, the weather and what she sees and learns in her travels. For example, on her first day touring, she states: “...The weather is bright and beautiful, very cold…We learned a lot about the Communist Party - the Soviets - the congress, history and architecture…went to lunch Cabbage soup, salad, big entree and ice cream for dessert…we were back on Nicoloi’s bus headed for a Freindship Palace and a “Round Table” discussion with 3 Russians…and an incredibly smooth moderator who could look one straight in the eye and claim that Gorky Park was not allowed in teh Soviet Union because it would make Russians hate Americans…Russians - even young ones - really do talk about the Revolution…”. On February 26, Peggy’s group tours Moscow where she learns about the educational system in the USSR. On the 27th she visits the Moscow Metro and the New Maiden Convent. On Feb 28 and March 1st the group was in Leningrad. The diary ends abruptly midway through her March 1, 1986 entry. Peggy is a great diarist, describing the people she sees and meets, the vibes in the areas where she visits and comparisons between life in the USSR and the USA at the time. This diary provides excellent insight into life and tourism in the Soviet Union at the time. BIO NOTES: Peggy Jean Andrews was born in Louisiana in 1929. After graduating from Amite High School and Northwestern State College, she married Henry Quinton Pugh (1921-2012) and they settled in Lake Charles, Louisiana where she began a long and successful career in education. She went on to receive her Master’s degree in Education from McNeese State College and was promoted from teacher to school administrator. Henry worked for the Port of Lake Charles authority, eventually becoming Assistant Port Director. The diary measures 7 1/4" x 6 1/4". It is in very good condition with no rips, tears or bends. The hardcover, spine and pages are in tact and attached. Peggy has written on 35 pages, legibly in ink. VG. ; Manuscripts; 12mo 7" - 7½" tall; 35 pages; Signed by Author. Very Good with no dust jacket .

Katz Fine ManuscriptsProfessional seller

Book number: 0012215

Catalogue: 20th Century Diary

Keywords: Era Communism