Transcriber's Notes This diary has been transcribed by Sheryl Williams, Curator of the Kansas Collection, Kenneth Spencer Research Library, August- December, 2018. I have transcribed Jennie Simon's entries exactly as written. She used very little punctuation, and her entries, written in a small notebook, flow from one entry to the next without the breaks I have provided for ease in reading. Her handwriting is small, and some pages are faint, and hard to read. When I could not make out a word I have indicated (unreadable). When I could guess some letters of the word I followed the undecipherable part with (?). When she used initials for a name and I could figure out who she was mentioning I have filled in the rest of the name in brackets, as in L[ouis]. Jennie Bessie Simons Diary, 1880, Transcription page 1 No 39 Diary and Weather Items Hodgeman, Kans. June 2, 1880 Jennie B. Simons Julia M. Simons page 2 June 2nd 1880 Father Julia Collie and myself planting rice corn on my claim all day. Etoile Housekeeper Louis foot so he cannot walk & Gracie stays at home. We had corn bread and a very little bacon for our dinner when I came home found none of the little ones had eaten anything since morning how sad I felt- I cooked these small pieces of meat and fried four eggs all I had for supper a little thickened gravy. Last of tea was our supper poor Father and dear little ones how sorry I am for them. Doesn't pay to deprive ourselves of so much to save our farms I have no money and nothing scarcely to eat-what shall I say Our Father who art in Heaven give us this day our daily bread. I feel more sorry for others than myself must try to pawn something tomorrow. How sad I am. God in mercy forgive my unbelief and help us that we may know thou hast not forgotten us June 3 Father and Julia went to office and to the ranche after sour milk Etoile and Collie planted with me until Father came up with the horses and some luncheon of sour milk and johnny cake with a little butter on it we skimmed from the buttermilk. Grigsby came to see if Father would take a load of brooms to Dodge or (Dodge or is crossed out) Spearville a distance of 80 miles for $2.00 and he paid them (unreadable) their expenses. Father agreed to do so next morn. June 4 Father went to Quances after brooms I rode with him to Grigsby's to borrow a little flour until he came back. Got 6 � pounds then C[ollie] and I went to the timber claim to plant. When we had planted all rows Julia came out for me as Etoile she feared was sunstruck I came home and she got better I worked at my sewing in the house which was quite a privilege. June 5 Julia, Collie and I worked hard planting all day finished our piece just got home as Father came from Spearville with two dollars he got a sack of meal 4 lbs of meat- a bar of soap paper of soda salt paid a debt at Hermers of 23 cents weighed 20 cents worth of crackers and cheese some of which he divided with us after he got home Cold and chilly. Julia worked with a shawl tied around her all day I with a sack around too cold without we were busy at work page 3 June 6 Sunday warm and pleasant- I travelled about nine miles for milk and to the post office. Got no milk as Mrs. Temple was away from home as she generally is. Father is writing to bro Joseph. I am too tired and discouraged to look on the bright side of anything June 7 Father furrowed out with the horses Etoile Collie and I planted all day Johnny cake is all the bread we have Julia keeps house and always has supper ready when we come home. June 8 Julia, C[ollie] and I planted sugar cane all day as before. Etoile kept house. Julia and Collie have gone 3 miles for sour milk for supper and I am going to make mush while they are gone. Oh when shall we ever again have the comforts of life I am trying to help put a crop on Father's timber claim to help him save it. I am sad to see these poor children suffer for proper food. We set a hen June 9 Father marked, and Julia, Collie and I planted on father's timber claim very warm indeed nothing unusual transpired 10th Warm but strong south wind. Julia Housekeeper and E[toile] and I planted all day very tired all of us A pack of ponies 850 passed before we had got out of sight. This morning two men called for breakfast nothing to get for them or Julia would have got them some so much for being hard up little fannie the dog and Collie caught a rabbit and Julia dressed it for breakfast for tomorrow 11th All went into the field and finished planting father's 5 acres some men drove up as we did and wanted to buy some bread but I could not sell any as I had no flour to make any our dinner was clear johnny cake and water. We went 3 miles for sour milk and to buy one lb of butter page 4 but she had no sour milk or butter I asked for syrup but she had none finally I bought about 3 pts of milk paid 10 cents she gave me some pickles and vinegar poor children went to bed hungry father and I ate some mush and milk and Julia then saved some of the 3 pts for the childrens breakfast 12 Father and I and Grace went to Himers a little store 5 miles from here to pawn some of my jewelry for flour but she said no we had 25 cents we went 1 � miles to buy a little butter for supper. A neighbor the night before told us butter was 11 cents a pound she asked 20 so I bought� pound for 10 cents and got about 2 qts of buttermilk. We took supper of johnny cake, butter and buttermilk and were thankful but- we had so little 13 Sunday father and I went to Mr. Temples for sour milk and 1 pound of butter for 11 cents. She gave us sour milk but could sell no butter this was before breakfast 14 We went to see a man about trading our cow coming in theist of Aug for one giving milk now and coming in on Jan next. He wanted $7.00 to boot and our cow's calf besides but must wait until he saw our cow first. We took dinner with them and came home with nothing for the poor children I got them some mush fried each one an egg and they ate some very sour milk and went to bed but before this Julia started for the post office 5 miles distant on horseback. Collie went to look up Cleopatra and found her little dead colt We were all very sorry. I was was very blue and discouraged but knew it was wrong to murmur too much I washed a tub full of clothes then started to meet Julia as it was after dark. I met her she had got a registered letter from Uncle Harrison with $10.00 in it and other news of encouragement I was ashamed of my unbelief and unfaithfulness Dear Father how much comfort he is to me and how I love to hear him pray?? little grace prayed that God would send us some flour Father mailed a letter to Joseph page 5 June 15 Very pleasant- Father Collie and I went into the field and buried Cleo's colt. brought her up and picketed her we went to Vernon store spent $2.25 - for sack flour 60 cts worth of sugar soap 10 starch .OS worth crackers as we had had nothing since morning. Julia Collie and Etoile gathered a nice lot of green grapes for canning with nothing to eat- only we gave them a few crackers when we got back about five oclock. Then took Louis and Gracie from Mrs Temple and the rest home got supper and now all are to bed or preparing for it but me. We have not had any flour in the house for about two weeks except 6 � pounds I borrowed. We went one mile out of our way to buy 2 � pounds butter price 10 � June 16 Julia, Collie and Louis planted on Joseph's timber claim to save it Father furroughed out Etoile was sick I gave her a sweat then was taken with severe pain in my side could hardly stir- but just after they came from the field I got better June 17 I worked in the field with the rest Etoile was some better June 18 Collie and Louis went out to get the horses and found Jimmie(?) had a nice little colt- then we all went to work again planting The night before we had a little shower June 19 Etoile,Collie father, and Louis and I planted hard all day Julia worked in the house 20th Julia and Etoile went to see Mrs. Grigsby's baby born the 4th� The rest stayed at home Very dry and hot and windy. Butter gone we have nothing to eat butter bread and a little sugar Oh how hard it is to keep soul and body together Monday 21st All worked in the field planting Sugar Cane. Mrs. Grigsby wanted me to come down to her house and do the work while her husband was page 6 gone. I started early this morning to Mr. G[rigsby] came home at night- unexpectedly Very warm and strong south wind. 22 Very Warm Strong South Wind. I arrived home about 11 oclock after doing up the work at Mr. Grigsbys all planted on Uncle Josephs timber claim and finished the 5 acres Etoile hard pain in her Bowels Tonight very cloudy looks like rain but no one can tell when it will rain by signs in civilized countries out here mamma went to Temples for sour milk and some sweet for Etoile When she got back Etoile was better. 23 Went to Vernon got 6 pounds butter at 10 ct 2 sacks of flour 1 of meal 3 lbs sugar little rope traded over 5 dollars worth 24 Father and I walked about 7 miles to see Mrs Andress to see our cow and hire another - got caught in the rain and staid all night. Had mush and milk for supper. 25th hired the use of a young cow for.75 cents a week and father and I got her most home when the children came out to meet us she got frightened and run way back most home to Mr. Beaurman's herd Father was thrown down his finger hurt Collie Julia and I went after her found her about 3 or 4 miles away but could not get her back- sent Collie to have father fetch the team but C[ollie] could not find page 7 the horses Julia and I waited for them at Mr. (Cunningham's ?) from 1 until 5 then walked home I then walked two miles and back to look for the horses but did not find them 26 Father and I got the horses and went to Beaurman's herd for her but could not and had to wait another day and felt sad and discouraged. 27 Today is Sunday but we thought best to go and get the cow as we told them to tie her for us at night-we went after her and brought her and picketed her got some seed for chickens from Josephs as we had to have something for them to eat got supper milked and only had about 3 pnts all asleep but me I am blue don't think people ought to work on the Sabbath if they can avoid it God looks at our hearts don't feel I have lived as becometh a Christian today 28 went 3 miles for milk and to the post office got a card from Prindle got no milk. 29 Father and I went after horses found Queens head all swelled up with rattlesnake bite put soda on it and mud but at night it was no better thought she would get better in the night or she would die 30 horse alive but no better kept mud on her Father and Julia got some remedies gunpowder yolk of an egg and salt. Gave her some ammonia. Mrs. Grigsby put some ammonia down her she seems worse July 1 Horse alive but very bad hope and trust she may get better feel very bad Queen is better than she was this morning sucks a little meal and milk and drinking water We all hope she will live. Boyd passed along he had page 8 walked all the way from Dodge says soda is the best thing for rattlesnake bite Cloudy but no rain warm and clear tonight nothing done but chores and tend to sick horse. Teams all the time passing for Colorado July 2 Warm and dry I have helped about the chores after dinner father plowed his garden and sowed (unreadable) sorghum. Etoile Collie and Louis went with him to help plant but he plowed it and then got water from Grigsby's to wash with Julia and I served and worked in the house as Julia and Collie wanted to go to a picnic tomorrow three miles from here Etoile has no shoes and father nothing suitable made to wear as I work outdoors so much I have little time to sew horse is better I am very thankful to Him who hears our feeblest cry Oh that we might always do just right and trust in the Lord. July 3rd Warm Julia and Collie went 4 miles on foot to a picnic but came home thinking it did not amount to much not as good as our picnic last year when they were entertained by speaking and singing. Etoile and Louis and Grace Grandpa and I stayed at home E[toile] had no shoes I washed and helped attend to Queen who gets along slowly but I hope she will live Today is the 14th anniversary of our marriage and Oh how I miss my darling husband but I am anxious to live for my childrens sake and to comfort father who is so much comfort to me but hope I shall meet him in heaven and my dear mother. How different I am situated now from page 9 fourteen years ago Then we were gay and happy with sister Julia and family in Wilmington Ill now sister and brother both gone and I am here in the far west with father and five dear little ones suffering all the privations of a frontier life beside in a land that that has been suffering a terrible drought for two years All asleep but me and I must soon go as I am very tired. July 4 Today is the anniversary of our glorious National independence Warm and pleasant. I received a package of temperance papers also Collie brought two letters for me one from bro Dr the other from sister Laura and my niece Jennie we are glad to hear from our friends it makes our hearts lighter and I feel thankful for all the blessings we have. July 5th Father and I wrote to the Dr and I to Mrs. Andress on business. We went to the ranch intending to go to Vernon but the Pawnee Creek had risen so high on account of the hard rain that we could not cross. Water stands in all the draws. Queen pulled her picket last night- and went off. I found her feeding and left - her face is considerably swollen now we have no butter or meat or sugar I am thankful to God for all the blessings he has bestowed upon me but- oh how I wish he would cause me to get my pension that I might make father and the children comfortable. page 10 July 6th Father and I broke a little on fathers claim with Bird (?) and Minnie. July 7 Went to the ranche And the creek was so high we could not go across retuned went to Marena they had no flour or meal or meat I bought 2 lbs of sugar and 2 of mackerel I got supper- partly cut fathers pants out and it was too dark we mailed one letter to H and Lone to Aunt Seymour(?) one to Mrs. Clark one to the Dr one card to Mrs Andress at Marena July 8th Father and I broke on his timber claim with Cleo she was hard to drive and broke the plow but I am thankful it is no worse & when we came home had supper all ready gotten by the little girls with a nice cake in honor of my sweet little boys birthday One is 9 and one is 6. 9th We have been plowing all day. The stock are having nice feed since the rain and plenty of water in the draws. I am thankful for the blessings I have that God remembered us and all our wants although so very small 10th plowed all day and felt much worn out 11th Sunday Collie went to the Office no mail 12 plowed all day& Collie (unreadable) finished fathers timber claim I was never glacier to finish any piece we had broken the handle to our plow several days before and now we must break a (unreadable) 13th Went to Vernon nothing to eat for several days but bread and milk and fresh eggs once in a while. a very little sugar but everything used up this morning and I had only $1.61 to get anything with and pay a debt of .20 I got one sack of flour $1.50 then lacked .09 of paying him but he was very kind and trusted me for 6 lbs butter box matches little page 11 sack of salt - I now owe him 60 cts. We called at Mr. Temple's to keep out of the rain and get the girls who were left there to fish got 3 very small ones we had a nice rain came home with water standing in the road 14th I have stayed at home worked on father pants Father and Collie sowed & digged in some sugar cane for feed on fathers new breaking. Etoile not very well I am sitting up to bake my bread all the rest are in bed set a hen at night 15th Father and Collie finished sowing cane over the timber claim I finished pants sewed on my dress and Julia and I covered a-parasol I had had long before I was married. 16th I went to the post office received a letter from good bro & sister- Harrison and Harriet- said they had plenty of rain was afraid the wheat would be impaired heard Edith Gowdy had died and left a little baby 3 weeks old 17th I washed a few things used up all the soap a herd of ponies stayed all night close by here. 18th Father has written to Joseph and I to NW Fitzgerald rained last night- night before last and a shower today plenty of rain here now 19th Went to Nelsons and picked up a load of chips and wood Father and Louis crossed the Pawnee at Adams and Julia and I walked to the office and back a distance of 8 miles - almost on an empty stomach as we had scarcely anything since morning after dark when we got to the office we were so hungry we eat the new corn stalks then got home long after dark supper was waiting and all asleep but father I mailed 3 letters one to N.W. Fitzgerald one to Joseph and one to the Dr. Now we are almost out of flour. page 12 July 20th At home it rained last night- and was (unreadable) and rained some during the day. I sewed & baked all my flour July 21 Pleasant and sunshine. Father and Etoile went to Vernon got 26 lbs flour 1/2 gal syrup 40 soap 25 rope in all I think $2.10 22nd July Julia and father went down to fathers house and brought his bed clothes I sewed. 23rd Collie rode down with mail carrier for mail could not cross the creek 24th Julia and I sewed & Julia got her lesson in Arithmetic. Father went to Weares to see about relief 25 Collie rode to office got no mail we all read and spent the day 26 We went after cherries at the dry run called at Mr. Robinsons and father called upon several families to see about relief. Very pleasant grass very green many persons are going away but the country looks lovely in its fresh robe of soft green July 27th Out of flour and meal & meal except a very little don't know where the next will come from 28th Nothing but hominy and milk I sewed father after trying several places borrowed 10 lbs of meal 29th Nothing but hominy and milk to eat 30th Father borrowed 10 lbs of meal of Mr. Temple we went after some more cherries feel pretty blue Father went to Hermers to get some flour and meal but he would not trust Feel rather sad Today is good bro Harrisons 52nd birthday. 31st Father borrowed 15 lbs flour of Mr. Wilson found Mrs. W with a young baby but very kind and pleasant He tried to get some at Weares but he would not trust when father came home hungry with the flour page 13 he raised the sack and swung it to Julia who stood watching him for joy. He who knew so little of being deprived of the comforts of life until he came into this state of Kansas. Aug. 1st A lovely lovely summer day only too warm for comfort. I rode to the office and walked back Father and children had a call from Mr. Hansen of the Hodgeman Agitator and Mr. Humbolt they admired our horses but had no money I guess to buy them Oh how I wish I could sell one of them we need money so much. Aug 2nd Father went to Vernon and got trusted for one sack flour about 25 cts worth of sugar I should think although we called for SO cts worth a box of matches. I stayed with Grace to dinner with Mrs. Grigsby. We had biscuits and butter dutch cheese a few Kansas string beans & (unreadable) coffee. This is to show how people fare in Kan. I relished it for we have very little butter at home. Aug. 3rd Father and I wrote to Harrison and Louis had a call from a soldier in the regular army to look at our colt, Lightning, for a friend in Garfield (?) he said. Aug 4th Father and Collie went to see about cutting our millet. I worked at sewing. The children studied their lessons. Father mailed the letter to (unreadable) I sent a postal to (unreadable) today Aug 5th Father went to Mr. Robinsons about fixing the plow Collie went to Mrs. Andres to see if our cow had come page 14 in we all staid at home I baked and ironed to save wood the children worked and studied. I felt very blue. I was afraid Collie's horse would hurt him because her colt was left at home when father came home he said some had more trouble than we did, said Mrs. Willson a lady he had met about a week ago with a young baby living 8 � miles from here was dead died suddenly I was very much shocked and saddened she left the children a girl 12 a boy 4 and a baby one week and a husband who seemed most distracted. I tried to be thankful that death had not crossed our door but my dear husbands loss will always be heavily felt by me. Aug. 6 Father and I attended the funeral a very respectable and sympathizing crowd of people were there a sermon preached by Elder Newcom from Amos - 4 & 12 Prepare to meet your God. Aug 7th The weather is lovely save to those whose hearts are full of sorrow Father went to Mr. Robinson and to Marena for him I made a pair of pants for Collie beside other work the children studied their Arithmetic. Aug 8th Went to Mr. Grigsbys on my way to the post office found he had called for my mail and I returned soon as they had a houseful of company Mr Temples family I think it a poor time to visit on Sunday I mixed up all my flour and made three loaves of bread and butter and sugar no eggs only very few a day we set another hen yesterday our hens all sit late oh how hard it is for me to live hand to mouth not knowing even knowing where our bread is coming from It seems dark to me but I think some good will come out of this if none of us actually starve I am so sad and fretful sometimes page 15 I hardly know what to do with myself but will try and do as well as I can and trust the Lord for the rest 12 Grandpa and Collie went to Browns Grove to get trusted for something to eat - got nothing and no mail borrowed 14 � lbs flour and 14 � meal of Mr Quance 13th Fixed the well rope and getting ready to go to Larned. Grandpa went to Mr. Robinsons 11th Grandpa Mamma and Collie started for Larned. Etoile Collie Louis and I staying alone bucket- rope wheel and all fell in the well. I took Princes rope off him and hooked it all out at night. Deaf and Dumb man came and picketed Prince 14th Deaf and Dumb man came and held cow while I milked and tended Prince 15th - Collie and I done chores all alone cow kicked at me five times and I sit down and cried. Grandpa and Grandpa and Grace came home before noon but Mamma stayed at Larned and worked at the Larned House I cried page 16 and cried I hate to have poor little Mamma work out and be domineered around I had a great deal work out myself 16th Drizzling rain and then hard raining this afternoon Today is Sunday wrote to poor little Mamma 14th Collie went to the post office after Grandpa came back from Mrs. Andras and he learned our cow had come in she came in Friday had a little bull calf Collie was out in an awful rain I was awful worried and cried and took on but after the storm he came home safe and sound he was not wet he had staid at Mr. Grigsbys and she had given him mush and milk. He got a letter from Uncle Louis with 2.00 in it and a promise of 150 dollars in 10 days he is coming out here first of September 17th Grandpa Collie and I went after the cow she is just as fat as butter and just as handsome as a picture we took dinner at their house I forgot to write that when Grandpa came home from L[arned] he had 2 sacks of flour 1 sack of meal 25 lb sack of Graham 40 cents sugar page 17 18th Grandpa and I went to Vernon to spend 2.00 and get the mail when we returned I bought 10 cts salt 25 cts beans 1.00 butter 10 cts writing paper 1 box bluing for ink 50 cts well rope came back no mail wrote a postal to Uncle Louis Grandpa and I wrote to Aunt Belle 19th The cow gives bloody milk out of one tit it rained steady late last night Grandpa walked over to Mr Robinsons to see if he could cut the millet 21st Friday Grandpa and I went to the office we wrote to Mamma. The mail did not come in the creek was so high. I felt disappointed I expected to hear from Mamma 21st I was taken sick in the night and was sick all day Grandpa and boys got a load of wood at Nelson whitman 22nd Sunday I am better Today Grandpa wrote to Uncle Louis and Uncle Harrison. They are awful good men and I love them and I will always be good to my friends page 18 23rd Grandpa and I went to the office. I received a letter or postcard rather from Mamma she is not well she works so hard. I am afraid I wish she was at home. I sent her back a card 24th I worked very hard Etoile in addition to our usual housework washed ironed mopped washed windows and door and cleaned up generally Grandpa went over to Mr. Robinsons Mrs. Butts youngest boy 3 years old has the typhoid fever 25th Mr. Robinson came after me to come and stay three days and nights but I could only promise to stay tonight. The child is not expected to live Grandpa has gone to draw Mr. Robinson a load of wood I was sick last night but it was some string beans that relaxed me so and Grandpa was the same way Grandpa is going to the office tonight. We are all well I am very thankful for there is so many page 19 sick around here 26th Mr. Robinson could get no one else to stay with the sick child and I was obliged to stay for I could not be so cruel as to leave the woman with her child alone when he was liable to die anytime he is awful sick 27th I am still at Mrs. Butts. Mrs. Robinson has tramped all over but can get no one to help her I will have to stay tonight Collie came over to get my horse for I rode Bird horse back. Grandpa wanted to use the bridle I had he tried to cross the Pawnee Creek but could not 28th Grandpa came after me I sent word for him to he went after Mrs. Heimer to come in my place but could not get her so old Mrs. Robinson came. I went home and went after the mail could not cross the creek. I have to go back to Mrs. Butts tomorrow morning page 20 29th Grandpa and I went to the office no mail 4 men had ate breakfast at our house (bread and milk) and willingly paid us 60 cents Grandpa and I went to Wearis and bought 40 cts worth of Dried apples when we came home we eat dinner and Grandpa took me over to Mrs. Butts the child I could see had failed 29th I have made some mistakes in dates but today is the 29th Grandpa came after me I can leave my work at home no longer I came home Mr. Butts arrived home soon after I left 30 At home to work all well this afternoon went to post office got a postal from Poor little hardworking mamma she wants to stay 2 weeks more if Possible 31 At home working I wish I could hear how Buddie Butts was page 21 Sep 1 At home looks like rain At night rained quite a little and the wind blew Terrible Sep 2 Mr. Ward came over this morning and told us Buddie Butts was dead and wanted us to go after the coffin at the grove we went 7 miles of the 10 and was informed they did not keep coffins there we went to the office no mail Cleo got cast on her stomach while we were coming up the creek we got her up all right for Mr. Ward was with us and she was not hurt- anyway I dont know when the funeral will be Sep 19th Sunday all at home mamma still away toiling for bread for her children. We are out of flour and have to eat rice corn. Last week we tended to sorghum on Uncle Henshaws (?) timber page 22 claim cutting and carrying it to mill 4 miles from sorghum field. We have been to the post Office Mon Wed Fri every time for 5 weeks. Uncle Louis has wrote a spell ago and promised to send $150.00 by express. We have had hot winds that turned the (unreadable) we have got no one to cut the millet Oct. 15th It has been a long time since I have written in this diary I have been away working for six weeks at Larned something I never had to do before but it seemed best at the time I worked hard and had some unpleasant things to put up with besides being away from Father and the dear children but I think it will be an experience in my life that will be for the best I have been home nearly three weeks and worked out in the field with father and the little ones every day except this week 3 days. We had rainy weather then yesterday we worked but today the wind has blown and it rained some and was very cold and snowed a very little just enough to call snow or it was sleet The 20th of this month we received $50.00 from Louis page 23 We are anxious to sell Lightning to fix our house and barn and relieve us of present necessities We received a letter from Calli W a good little girl I have written one letter to Louis since I came home I am glad to be at home with my dear family again 16th Father Etoile Collie and I worked on Drs timber claim cutting cane. The weather was cold and rain but we felt we must work Julia Louis and Grace stayed at home kept house and gathered cow chips to burn Julia got dinner for Elder Newcomb 17th Today is Sunday we all staid at home as usual pleasant and warmer Today is the 63rd anniversary of my Dear fathers marriage so well remembered by him. Julia went to the office but got no mail I forgot to say that the 15th in the middle of the storm Collie discovered a skunk in the barn and was much frightened for fear he would bite something or somebody Father took a pitchfork and went after him into the privy where he had taken refuge Stuck the fork into him and then we could kill him no other way than to heat water and scald him which we did until he was most dead then father chipped him into while Collie held him with the fork 18th Worked in the cane weather cool Elder Newcomb called staid to dinner also Mrs. Butts. Glad to see them but felt sorry to leave my work. Father came from the mill and saw them a short time brought two letters one from sister Belle one from Mr. Barto glad to hear of Ors prosperity and Mr. Barto wished me to come and page 24 take care of his sick wife as he could get no one around there very difficult for me to leave as I work every day in the cane 19 Pleasant Father went to the mill We worked in the cane 20 Father went to mill with one load Etoile and Collie worked with me Julia and Gracie kept house and gathered stuff for fuel (unreadable) buffalo chips lovely day we got dinner for a man from Col He paid me 40 I told him it was too much but he said no then I went into the field and worked until after dark. I am thankful for the blessings I have life and health for myself and family although we all work very hard hope the dear children and father will have it easier before long Nov. 8th Most eleven oclock over two weeks since I have written in my journal I have worked about every day since I wrote before in the field up to last Thursday when I gathered fuel with father and the children Then Friday had Mr Acritit (?) family here I used(?) them well though they are not much company for me last Saturday father got some folks to partition the barn as our stock stay out most every night because we have not our barn fixed no hay but came (unreadable) then the weather is nice For this time of year. Mr. Robinson fixed in three windows for us which made it very pleasant after waiting so long to have it done. It cheered me very much to have them fixed for it has been pretty dark the same night a man and boy with some cattle stayed overnight and bed their horses I charged .90 which I wish wishing someone would come that I might buy my girls some calico dresses which will only cost .8 � for 16 yards last Sunday we spent quickly as usual and I could hardly see where the day had gone to Some of the past two weeks I have felt page 25 pretty sober but today a large herd of cattle passed here and they gave us a little heifer calf 2 months old that was tired out I was thankful and feel quite cheerful for all my blessings and that I can see Gods hand in so many things Father and the boys picked up a load of wood Julia and I picked cane seed up until 4 oclock when we did our chores and this evening I have cut out two little undergarments for precious little Gracie a chemise out of a flour sack a pair of drawers out of hand(?) cloths I saved while at the (unreadable) Little Louis went to bed with a headache I am afraid he works too hard he is only six and works about every day already and is very smart and ambitious. I hope he will be well in the morning he is an excellent boy and oh how his mamma loves him Father is very busy all the time and has too much care I hope god will ever be with us and do what is for our good. 9th last evening it commenced raining and rained all night and a fine rain all through the day. everything looks blue no barn for stock a cold house poor clothes etc 10th Father and boys got another load of light wood and brush very difficult to cut to cut it on the banks of the creek the girls and I worked in the house and helped do chores 11th Mr. and Mrs. Grigsby brought us up a load of squash and pumpkins and Mrs. Grigsby spent the day I intended to cut cane or pick rice corn but the children except for Grace went with Grandfather and picked a load of rice corn and got supper and father took Mrs. G[rigsby] home and bought 2 bush of beans page 26 We received a letter from the Dr wishing me to send him a photo of himself as he was going to have some taken from it Nov 30 About two weeks ago Mr. Grigsby helped father one day fix the barn so we could so we could put everything in except lightning we had no halter for him and we dare not leave him in the cow has no place fixed for her we have kept the horses in the barn about one week the weather was so cold we have had (unreadable) winter weather for three weeks with occasional snow storms snowing only a few inches my two little calves died I was sorry but am glad I have had no greater loss It takes about all our time to get wood pick rice corn get stalks and do the chores I feel sorry to think I have so little time to work in the house and teach my children Collie and Louis only 9 and 6 years of age help do the chores attend to the horses chop wood and work like little men I hope they will grow up good men a blessing to their mamma an honor to the world and my girls do all they can Dear father is a blessing to us all we could not live without him last week we had a letter from sister Harriet how glad we are to hear from her we all work hard and sometimes get discouraged but God has said As thy day is so shall thy strength be we have been without flour for one week nearly or we baked the last one week ago no meat and very little butter plenty of excellent sorghum syrup about 6 gls of milk a day to day we bought a sack of flour paid $1.40 for 50 lbs � gal kerosene paid .85 a gal. pretty cold today Dec. 1st Very pleasant Father and the children cleaned out the barn I cleaned the floor in the house and baked we picketed the horses out- the first- for over a week page 27 the children worked hard Julia Etoile and Collie writing in the evening Louis was too tired and sleepy Dec. 2nd Pleasant Father and I got a load of wood and were very comfortable Julia melted snow and hurt herself lifting God is good to us he remembers us in a great many ways Dec 3rd received a letter from Louis or card in Chicago we got a load of fodder and corn Julia went with us Dec 4 Got a load of wood very pleasant until we started for home when in three miles of home it thickened up the wind blew terrible cold the moon was hid we feared the children could not get 3 young horses in the barn. We saw a light at the window when we were a mile away We got home all worked hard the children got the stock in and we were thankful 5 Pleasant but cold picketed the stock got our chores done early had a strong cold wind in the evening Dec. 5 very pleasant Dec. 6th quite pleasant but cold Father Julia Etoile and Collie got a load of rice corn I washed Louis cut wood Gracie helped her mamma 7th I finished washing Collie cut wood the girls and father got rice corn 8th Father Julia and Etoile got rice corn very pleasant 9th Pleasant got rice corn 10th Father Etoile Collie and I page 28 got a load of rice corn Julia staid at home and worked The weather was very pleasant about out of flour. Oh I am so tired of being pinched. Julia taught the children writing this evening and I heard Louis read he was so tired he dropped asleep when he was reading poor children no time to study only in the evening when they are so tired Dec. 14th The 1st I have written this week very pleasant father got one sack of flour box of matches 2 spools of thread 11/2 lbs of meal Saturday which took all my money except 3 cts Monday we got a load of wood Julia went to the Grove 10 miles on an errand horseback and earned millet for the horses as father said he would take the payment in millet the girls and I got a load of rice corn while father and Collie were getting a load of millet Louis and Grace staid alone until Grandpa went 2 � miles and got the load of millet I think they done well for children only 6 and 4 years old got our chores done early Louis read and wrote Julia Etoile and Collie studied Arithmetic E[toile] and C[ollie] are almost through their books J[ulia] studies a higher Arithmetic I am sorry father has so much to do for he is too tired at night He is an excellent father I hope God will bless him and we will all try to be better I am too impatient. Dec. 15th Father Julia Etoile Louis and I all got a larger load of rice corn we all done the chores except Julia got supper The children studied writing Julia and E[toile] Arithmetic Louis and Grace read I worked out some hard examples in mental Arithmetic for Collie All the children were tired out and pretty cross I am too impatient but will try to do better poor little children work hard and study in the evening when they are tired. 16th Father was tired out The children except Grace went with me and got a nice load of rice corn 17th Julia took my place and went with father and Collie for a load of fodder I partly made two pairs of pants for the boys 18th Father Collie and I went for a load of brush page 29 (unreadable} Julia made her a pair of drawers and partly made Etoile a pair 19th I forgot to note that we received a letter from sister Belle with their family pictures we were very glad a saucy letter from (unreadable} and Joss men I owe 7 or 8 dollars friday morning I went to the office today no letter from bro L who said he would send me some money he own me by the 6th of this month and would be here in two weeks no letter no more flour most all mixed up little meal and some rice corn meal Mrs Grigsby gave me three cents today in the house besides Graces 10cts - I rode to the office with the mail carrier and walked home distance four or five miles I feel rather sober but- God knows what is best� Oh I hope I can send Julia to school soon and find time to teach the little ones except In the evenings Jan 3rd The last two weeks has been very cold for 4 or 5 days we hardly saw the sun one week we went three times to the office got wood done chores Mr Ward came over said our colts had damaged him we gave him a load of corn for the trouble We have waited for money and none came we have lived for corn bread for nearly two weeks Christmas chicken and corn bread Julia and Etoile made candy and popped corn for the children Santa Claus did not come here New Years Julia and Etoile walked 3 miles to get some money a man owed us to buy flour as our meal was almost gone no money but they came home and took the team back went back and he let them have a sack of flour yesterday Julia went to the office on Bird got a letter from Harriet page 30 and a package for father New pants vest and undershirt from Land H Jan 4th Father and I got a load of wood children done the work at home Jan 5th Father and I got a large load of stalks then Julia and I got a small load as fodder was too dried out very pleasant Jan 6 Another very severe snow and blow storm we all felt discouraged Jan 7th Very cold day we staid at home and tried to keep warm Jan 10th Father and I got a load of wood and the good little children done the work yesterday I went to the office on foot and brought some rice corn Mr. Grigsby gave me home it was poor but we were out of flour and meal except flour enough for (unreadable) once I was tired and very much discouraged I cried and felt as if only trouble was before me a large family and very cold weather and nothing to eat We went out we saw a man Mr Whitman he was kind told us to come to his place and get a load of brush I felt better hearted tonight My dear little Collie felt unwell with pain in his stomach I hope he will be better in the morning for his mother thinks a great deal of her little man 9 years old who works hard everyday like a little man Lord help us all 11 Father and I got a large load of brush children done the work Collie hurt his wrist no money no flour quite pleasant 12 Today is lovely bright warm sun Father and Louis gone to sell 2 little calf skins to get flour I borrowed little Graces 10 cts to buy thread with page 31 Father picketed out the horses before he went away everything seems to enjoy the sunshine Julia Etoile and Collie are cleaning out the barn I am alone in the house with Grace, Mr Ward has been here for 5 gal of sorghum I measured out one gal and wait until Saturday or one week from Saturday for our pay Jan 21st I have not written for some days This week so far has been a busy one as usual mon we got a load of brush tues I walked to the office got a registered letter from Harriet with $15.00 in it from good sister H[arriet] who knew I had waited so long for my money from L[ouis]also some packages one for father a lb of tea some cotton cloth for me and package for Grace and Louis with some little stockings all felt- thankful when the mailman told us there was one at the office for us all and expected my money form L[ouis] but were sadly disappointed when we found it was from H[arriet] instead of L[ouis] but we were very thankful Wed we all went to Mr Wrights paid him 2 gals of syrup towards what I owed him got his advice about fixing the barn and his promise to help fix it by coming tomorrow Thurs went to (unreadable) got 1 sack flour 1 sack meal� gall kerosene two slate pencils 10 cts machine oil all came to 2.35 today we went to Mr Heriles(?) bought $1.00 worth of poles to fix barn got part of them took dinner with Mrs H(unreadable) who was very kind got home found the children had done up their work nicely we have heard most all the lessons as the children all study at home what time they have in the daytime and finish their lessons in the evening except my little man Collie can't find time except in the evening because his work keeps him busy through the day we hope he will make all the better man for his care and work when he is so young being only 9 years old we think we have got good children we mailed a letter to Harrison this morning. we are reading aloud from Somers in the Army page 32 23 this week we have got our barn fixed paid Mr Wright for two days work 1.70 I owe him 5 cts he fixed one half of it- said he would trust us for poles to fix other half Jan 30th rather pleasant picketed our stock and read some 31st Father and I got a load of wood pretty cold day Feb 1st Father went to town meeting pretty cold Grandpa and Julia got a barrel of water to wash with Etoile and Collie got their lessons 2nd Very warm and pleasant father and I got a large load of cane for stock. Then I commenced washing Feb 3rd warm finished my washing moped and helped Julia and Collie about their lessons father Etoile and Louis went for a load of wood got the horses down as they were not shod I felt bad and frightened when they told me hope nothing serious will come out of it Feb 4th Very windy and cold today Mrs Butts and Lily visited us today Father went to Mr Weares bought one sack of flour kerosene 2 lbs of sugar some soda all came to $2.00 I forgot to mention that last Friday we received a letter from Wm (?} with $5.00 enclosed he had heard we were hard up and sent it to us He is a good boy I hope God will bless our dear friends who are so good to us. last week we also received a letter from Joseph and one from Dr I have now a letter to answer to Joseph one to Wm one to Hone to my little niece Jennie Wickey or rather her mother I should have said and one to dear Mrs Clark tonight I have written a card to Mr David Ahright one to Mr Barto also sent a letter to Dr G (?) yesterday Feb 5th went to take Mrs. Butts home got a sack of flour from Mr Ward who owed us and now owes us .90 looks like rain Feb 6 The ground is covered with snow we were glad we had wood and enough page 33 to eat Feb 7 from this time until the 12th has been almost continual stormy with one or two days that was rather pleasant overhead but the 12th father and I went for a load of wood as we were out-and about it would not last until we returned. We paid him in sorghum. 13th rather pleasant 14 Stormy again all feel blue 15th very cold but pleasant- obliged to go after wood to cases(?) and pick up brush in the snow only got enough to last a couple of days 16th Julia and Father went 2 miles south to Mr Robinsons to get some millet - as we were out of wood - and they and several others were out- orhad been Julia heard there was a school that was wanting a teacher she thinks of applying when the going is better 17th Father and I got another load of (unreadable)shall pay him l gal of syrup part of it is brush children kept house done the chores well as they always do we had a letter written to Bro Wm ever since the 10th not mailed 18 Father and I got a load of millet at Watsons paid at the rate of $6.00 a ton 19th very pleasant but cold all staid at home mailed a letter to Wm 20 Very pleasant and mild it has thawed some We have had a halter on Lightening for one day I have written to Mary Wickey also a letter to my friend Mrs. Clarke also to Joseph we have had no mail for one week mails have been delayed on account of storms 21st Very pleasant and warm but wet underfoot Father Julia and I went to Mr Grigsbys got two letters one from the Dr and Belle one from sister Laura Collie is studying Grace has read her lesson in 4 and five letters or words of 4 or 5 letters spoken her page 34 piece Louis has gone to bed sold Mr Wilson 2 gal syrup we got a load of wood. on (unreadable) 22nd Pleasant and warm, Father and Collie went to Weares bought 1 sack flour 50 (or 5.0) lbs meal soap matches went to the office received one letter from good sister Harriet and 4 packages from Laura and H (or Flo) a dress and undergarment 2 spools of thread 2 combs and� lb tea from Flo A dress for Julia and a pair of stockings for father and Collie We were very thankful I hope I shall be able to pay some of their kindnesses I hope God will bless them I have been washing all day Julia and Etoile did Collies work out doors My precious little Grace is five today and oh how her mamma loves her Julia made a cake this evening in honor of Graces birthday 5 years ago today I well remember my darling husband was alive. I hope I shall one day go to him when my life work is done. 23 very frosty scarcely seen the sun today. Very wet and muddy Father and I went for a load of wood children staid at home, this evening they got their lessons and I did up the work for Julia to study we have used up our corn several days ago and are waiting to get money to buy feed for the horses I thanked the Lord tonight for what he has done for us and will trust him for the future hoping we shall soon be supplied with what is necessary for us 24th Father and Julia went to Mr. Butts left a letter for Mr Silva also took 2 gal of syrup to them very warm father did not wear an overcoat 25th Pleasant Let all the horses loose but grace all staid at home Today is Dr Goudy s birthday I hope he is happy today 26 Father and Etoile went to Mr Robinson Mr and Mrs Grigsby visited here. 27 very pleasant let the stock loose except Lightning and Prince saw the grass had started 28 father and I went after brush wrote a letter to Laura The Sheriff called for the taxes page 35 March 1st very Pleasant and warm let all the horses loose. I cut out a wrapper for myself children got their lessons had the door open nearly all day it was so pleasant Collie and I went to the timber claim for the horses March 2 Pleasant- let- all the horses loose Mr Grigsby came here and wanted Father to go to Larned for him but after he went home we had a small snow storm and it all disappeared the next day Mar 3 Father and I got a load of wood at Mr Whitmans then I went form the hill to the office but got no mail I called at Duncans and Grigsbys Mr G[rigsby] thought he would go to L[arned] Monday Mar 4th Father and Julia went about 9 miles to Mr Mudges father collected $7 owed us The air was cold and raw Julia saw Mr Mack in regard to a school Mar 5 Father and Etoile went to Weares Julia and I washed got a sack of flour and 2 bush corn for horses and a little millet from Grigsbys. Mar 6 It has snowed all day and tonight it is a wet rain All staid at home we are almost out of cane stocks How are we to get a long in our destitution but-the Lord has had mercy upon us thus far and I don't think he will forsake us. The children take turns in reading the bible at- prayer time which I think is very nice hope God will take us through our trials and perplexities Our timber claims are to be seeded this month and I cannot see how we are going to accomplish all this without - God help no I am thankful for all our blessings but we all feel sad Mar. 7th Father and I went to Duncans for some millet - but we had no money and he talked as if he had none to sell It has snowed some but is clear and nice tonight Tomorrow we expect to go to the sugar mill about 5 miles to get some cane we left there in the fall page 36 as our last resource we came home and the dear little boys had out and brought in a large load of wood How much I think of those precious little men only six and nine years old The girls had did what I told them had supper going and tonight I bless the Lord for the darlings he has given me and excellent father I feel like saying All's well Julia wrote to Mr Mack in regard to a school Father a postal to bro Hand last night I wrote a postal to Lawrence for seed I feel as if I could not be as happy in any place as with father and the children at home. 8th Father and I went to Simpsons and got some corn we found a poor load the children sent off our mail thawing nearly all day 9th Pleasant and thawing all day very wet underfoot Father let all the horses out loose except Prince I mended all day we had a chicken for supper Julia examined the children C[ollie] and E[toile] in Arithmetic Geography and spelling their average was nearly the same She is a good girl to help her brothers and sisters 10th very windy all at home I cut out the undergraments for the girls out of bags mail carrier from the Marena office 11 still very windy mail carrier stoped here and fed his horse we ripped and washed an old coat that had been left year one years ago to make Collie one as he has none fit to wear the mail carrier brought a pension letter from OK Clarke nothing satisfactory in it 12 very windy and cold but Father Etoile and I went down to cases for wood called at Mr Sanborns page 37 Mar 13th Pleasant no snow to be seen horses all let loose but Prince and he picketed Father Julia and Grace went to the post office got a letter from good sister with one dollar in it and a new apron for me also some papers from Lake Co. Ill one stated the death of an old acquaintance by a railroad accident which is sad also that Father Simons was still alive Our feed was gone and we had to go on to fathers timber claim and cut a load of stocks I sent a letter to N H Dunnell MC in regard to my pension Oh how anxious I am to get one Julia wrote to Aunt H from the office a postal 14th Today would have been my dear mothers birthday I often find myself wishing her back to earth again It was so hard for me to give her up. It has been cold and windy Father bought 14 bags of broom corn seed of Quance for $2.00 paid $1.00 down and the other to be paid in 10 days the dollar was one Harriet sent us yesterday Our flour was all baked yesterday have meal enough to last a few days I cut out a coat for Collie out of a coat - old coat- I had extra pieces in it where I had to piece at-beside a great many darns Children got their lessons except Louis and Grace have been neglected today. Father has wrote a letter to bro Louis. 15 It is cloudy we had quite a hail storm Father and I commenced plowing the garden then we took E[toile] and L[ouis] and went to the timber claim and got some old stocks for the horses and found some cane seed. We got a card from the seed house. 16 It has been very pleasant and warm Father Julia and I went to plowing on the timber claim. We left E[toile] and L[ouis] to pick page 38 up cane seed on fathers claim a mile from us we plowed six rounds Julia and I plowed 3 rounds and let father lay down in the wagon box Julia drove and I held the great breaking plow she drove nicely and we were very proud to think we could plow without fathers help we went to the claim and help the children load in their seed and came home Collie and Grace kept house Collie chopped all the wood watered prince and the cow and picketed her they were good children and I love them better than gold and silver and precious things. All abed but me and I am going now. 17 Julia and I plowed on my timber claim all alone L[ouis] and C[ollie] cut rice corn stalks for fuel E[toile] and Grace staid at home father borrowed 13 lbs of flour from Quance and went to the office and got a letter from good sister H with $10.00 in it we had had no bread but corn bread to eat since the day before at noon God has remembered us again 18 Father and Julia and I plowed driving Cleopatra Father plowed 5 furrows and Julia ? driving a young horse Collie cut stalks and E[toile] and L[ouis] and I staid at home It looks cloudy it snowed some this evening It seems as if winter would never be willing to leave us again 19th Father went to Weares bought 2 sacks flour 1 gal kerosene 25 lbs meal paper pins $3.50 Collie and Etoile and I cut stalks and picked up seed then father and we loaded up and went to my claim E[toile] and C[ollie] cut (unreadable) Father and I plowed six times around we had a call from Mr Wilsons son and another man pretending to want to buy a horse but we were afraid he wanted to jump our timber claims or for some mischief. All abed but Julia and I Mar 20 rather cool this afternoon it thundered and lightened is cool tonight Collie rode with the mail carrier part way to Wearis to get some flour we left there for Mr Quance walked over five miles I was not very well we have only a few sticks of wood and tomorrow I must plow with Julia Oh my lot seems hard but I page 39 try to be thankful for the dear children and father and other dear friends I often feel anxious for fear I will not train the children rightly I can't hardly endure to punish them it seems harder for me than them 21st Julia C[ollie] and L[ouis] went to my timber claim with me j and I plowed then C commenced learning to drive for sure we did remarkably well L[ouis] and C[ollie] cut rice corn stalks for fuel then went a mile on fathers and cut fodder E[toile] and little Grace kept house cleaned hen house done housework got wood and worked hard at home father walked 2 � miles and back to get a man to help plow his claim we are all very tired. I hope we shall have our health preserved to help ourselves and trust the Lord for the rest 22 J[ulia] and I have plowed all day Louis cut stalks for fuel E[toile] and C[ollie] picked up some seed Grandpa and precious little Grace kept house we came home by starlight this morning I felt so sad to think of the privations and hard work of my poor children I could not keep from tears Oh Lord prosper me that I may give the comforts of life to them and poor father and thou shalt be praised 23 C[ollie] and J[ulia] took turns plowing with me Etoile picked seed Louis corn stalks and seed Father and Grace staid at home I came home helped about supper and did up the dishes as the children were so tired 24 Father went into the field with us helped plow a little cut- corn stalks C drove for me E[toile] and L[ouis] picked corn stalks and seed Then we went to fathers claim and got some stalks after cutting them for the horses I with all the family are very tired and I feel discouraged for I cant get the money owing to me and have to deprive my family of so much and work beyond my strength 25 I was not well staid at home father and I finished my claim and commenced on his cool wind 26 dear Julias birthday 14 years old warm and pleasant Frank and Nelson called 27 very warm don't need fire only to cook with Collie went to the office got a letter for himself from his friend Frank Clark father one from Joseph and I one from Dunnell which I will answer tonight Julia a card from Mr March horses all out but Prince hope nothing will happen bad to them page 40 Mar 28th C[ollie] and J [ulia]) went after horses but found none I put or planted some acorns on fathers timber claim and mine and Dr. rather cold wind Mr Quance called gave us some turnips feel rather blue Mar 29 Horses came home last night Father and I went to office got a letter from Harriet told us some sad news in regard to L[ouis] he has failed and I fear caused H[arriet] too and I have lost$ too we bought feed for horses and flour and meal for family at Wearis brought home stalks to burn 30 Father and I plowed E[toile] and C[ollie] picked up seed 31 mailed a letter to Uncle H C[ollie] and J[ulia] plowed broke our whiffle br(?) E[toile] and L[ouis] picked seed and set a hen Apr 1st Mrs Band (unreadable) called father and I plowed Apr 2nd Father and I finished his piece and brought home seed and fodder J[ulia] and E[toile] cleaned the house and set another hen weather moderate Apr 3rd rather cool I found I had left- or lost a box of matches I went to Mr C and borrowed some before breakfast- got a letter from Laura and answered it and sent it by the mail carrier today rather cool fire is comfortable Apr4th cool in the morn Father and I went on my timber claim Father went one round to get me started I went 4 rounds alone then we went to fathers claim where C[ollie] and L[ouis] had cut stalks for fodder loaded an went home for we expected Elder Newcomb and wife to dinner we waited until two then ate but before our table was cleared they came we got dinner for them He read us a good sermon and went away This eve... I tried to sew on a dress dear sister H[arriet] sent me one year ago Grace and L[ouis] asked for more supper C[ollie] cried to go to the fort for tree seed felt bad for he had no boots and I had not made his coat I cut out of an old one e tried to study and often called upon me to help in her Arithmetic J[ulia] wanted to read from a good book I gave father a lunch then we had prayers all went to bed but J[ulia] who staid up with me a little while I am ashamed of my fretfulness and m(unreadable) at my lot but I pity the dear little ones and father who are deprived of so much because I cant get a sum of money away to me I fear it is lost God forgive me and all of us and help me to bear all things in a Christian manner thankful for the dear children and father page 41 Apr 5th I harrowed on my claim Father and the boys cut stalks for fuel Mrs Butts got 1 gal of syrup making 2 gal. Mr Ward came for seed Apr 6th cool wind I harrowed and finished mine and went six times around fathers father and C[ollie] cut fodder Julia went to Mrs Butts we carried most 15? to Mr Ward's Etoile and Grace kept house Our cow is gone I hope we shall find her. Mailed a letter to Dr. Gowdy yesterday Apr 7th I finished harrowing fathers tree claim and got some fodder and corn stalks to burn The wind has blown cold all day 8th Julia and I Father and Collie rose early to go to Hodgeman as Julia wished to be examined for a certificate we were going to ride with the mail carrier we were ready when he came along but he could not carry us we took off our things and I washed 9th little snow last night rather cool J[ulia] and I went to Hodgeman or Jetmore and both were examined with two other teachers We liked the Superintendent I think we will both get a good certificate Julia being only just fourteen was not entitled to a certificate for the account of her age but will get one A man was waiting to hire her if she got a certificate she will have to wait until her papers are examined by the board. We staid all night at Mr Byers(?) also called upon Mrs Hann. 10th Quite pleasant we got home felt very happy over our examination and the success we had met with although our flour was most gone got a letter from H that made me sad 11 Father and children got a load of chips to burn and a load of fodder J[ulia] and I staid and worked in the house. Cold raw wind. 12 Last night we had a little snow and it has been a cold disagreeable day the horses have all been in the barn today we were nearly out of flour only 23 cts no (unreadable) as I have expected money all winter and now lost what I expected. I thought father better see Mr Robinson and see if he would let us have a sack of flour and a little salt (unreadable) as he wanted some syrup Father went and I went with him we traded 155 cts worth page 42 we told Mr R[obinson] we would trust him and did a while ago now he has returned the favor to us. Last Sunday we attended meeting a Mr Britts a good sermon. Today is my birthday and Julia tried to get as good a supper as she could because it was my birthday 13th Father got 10 bush rice corn and 1 bush peanuts on (unreadable) of Mr Weare 14 Collie and Etoile and I went to Ft Larned after seed found none went to Bartos staid all night- he told us to go near the grove and get cottonwood cuttings we got some on Mr Deacons got home in the evening felt discouraged and blue 16 we put out 387 little trees on mine father marked it-very warm. Julia received our certificates while I was gone mine a 1st grade hers a second because she was so young and had no experience in teaching Her examination entitled her to a 1st Grade but as she had never taught and was so young received a second Grade expects to teach at Spearsville for $15 a month and boarded 17 All at home warm and pleasant 18th put in all 1000 trees on mine with the little ones help Father plowed at the house 19 The children C[ollie] and E[toile] and L[ouis] put out between 2 and 3 hundred on fathers claim Father and I commenced plowing on the 5 acre lot at the house Julia done the work Mrs Ward and Hal came after syrup 20 Father and I plowed rained 21st Julia went to the office a card from Mr Baird and a letter from Dunnell cant get my pension unless I can get the surgeon evidence I feel discouraged It rained 22 Julia took a gal of syrup to Mrs Butts and spilled part of it in the buggy 23 Father plowed most all day alone I washed a little sewed some we had our last cornbread for breakfast rice corn boiled for dinner and some beans with a little milk in them for supper Mrs Butts owes us for 2 � gal of syrup and we must get some flour tomorrow Collie went to Weares to tell page 43 him his Grandpa could not pay $4 he had agreed to pay him and if he could not wait another week he was short and crusty he also got a letter from Sister H[arriet] saying they would come here soon. We were glad hope they will do well here. Mr Wilson called here father intended to try and borrow money of him to pay Weare he bought one gal of syrup 24 Father went to Marena for some flour Julia Etoile and Grace went with him as far as Mr Butts The boys and I staid at home Loui was so hungry I cooked an egg for him he divided it with Collie then made a little candy I eat a little rice corn I had biscuit and a couple of eggs a piece and had a comfortable supper we have 29 chickens we all feel rather sad and discouraged a debt of $4 to pay and no money to do it with Oh Lord do help us we beseech thee Julia had another school offered her at Marena today 25 very pleasant and warm father plowed alone E[toile] and L [ouis]and little Grace planted rice corn with me Collie took Mr Grigsby scorn 5 � qts cane seed tried to borrow $5.00 to pay Weare but he said he could not spare it We think he could Mr Newcomb called here Father and Julia took Lightning behind the wagon and picketed him out near where we plowed he behaved quite well we were glad it was as well. We had a hard blow and little rain last night Little five year old Grace told her brother Loui six years old while planting corn with him to work good and he should be placed among the stars 26 Very warm and pleasant Etoile Collie and L[ouis] planted rice corn Father plowed Julia and Grace kept house and made a little garden We are unable to buy garden seeds Oh I wish I could have the comforts of life but I bless the Lord for all my blessings E[toile] and C[ollie] got their Arithmetic lesson at noon and Louis read and Grace. page 44 Apr 27 1881 Today is my darling Etoiles birthday 12 years old today and she has planted corn all day with me Julia helped us after dinner Collie went after the cow but could not find her we came from work after dark and had to bake bread for supper and do baking after supper all abed but me and my last loaf is done Collie brought a young rabbit 4 miles on a horse he is so fond of pets dear children I hop God will bless my precious children and make their pathway in some respects more smooth than mine. And Father I hope will God will bless him and his fathfulness. Oh how sad and blue I felt when I thought how poor we were and how many perplexities we had I hope God will take care of Harrison on his journey and his family and all my relatives and save us when we die I feel sad because I am unable to pay some small debts Etoile wrote a letter and mailed it today to Gen Grant 28th warm and pleasant Father plowed went to the blacksmiths got the three horses feet pared and plow sharpened took a gal of syrup to pay him found the cow at Mr Prindle's Father and Collie took dinner there Julia planted with me until noon then Etoile and Louis planted corn with me until night 29 pleasant but cool this morning Father plowed and Etoile and I planted rice corn. I am thankful for all the blessings I have but I cant help being troubled about a great many things I am so poor Julia wrote to Mr Waters to hear about her school today. The grass is green and our stock except the work horses get their living and have for two weeks everything looks lovely if those that had my money other property had done right by me I should be very comfortable right now The ground is in good condition for plowing and as Father a man most 76 is plowing alone while I am planting one neighbor has planted 35 acres and others probably done as well a great deal of garden is in we have no money nor garden seed page 45 Apr 30 The last day of this month Father plowed and E[toile] C[ollie] and L[ouis] planted rice corn until afternoon when the wind came up and portentious clouds made their appearance we hurried come put out our team Collie got Prince C[ollie] and L[ouis} went after the cow which was picketed J[ulia] and L[ouis] planted in garden May 1st warm in morning cool and cloudy towards night we had only bread enough for supper Father and I went to the office and got a sack of flour Stokes had sent us we paid 10 cts bringing it up It seemed like a hand of Providence that Mr Stokes. was so kind still I am so wicked I feel bad because we have no means to pay our debts I hope I shall be able to pay my honest debts before long because it is such a trial I received a postal from Sheldon wanting Julia to teach May 2nd rained all day sew on aprons May 3 rain nearly all day Father and I went to Nelsons for a load of brush took him a gal of syrup now Ii owe him one more Julia rode to Spearville to see about her school Mrs Waters was teaching out she engaged another May 4 Father and C[ollie] went to Weares got some garden seeds and plowed in afternoon E[toile] and I cleaned house May 5 Father plowed and I finished cleaning and washed for Julia May 6 Father plowed and the girls and I ironed and sewed in the house May 7 Julia and I went to Mr Bairds found them very nice family Father and children planted garden May 8 Today is my dear father's birthday He is 761 arrived home stoped at Mr Kindals And took dinner Mr Baird also I found them very pleasant people Yesterday Mr Matteson took Lightning home with him for a few days flour most gone I called at Marena on my way home to see if they had accepted my proposition to teach their school They promised to let me know by Thursday morn they wanted a cheaper teacher if they could get one I almost hope I shall get it for I need money so badly I feel rather blue and sad tonight still am not unthankful for the blessings I have I am impatient page 46 Julia commences her school at Mr Bairds district tomorrow morning gets $15 a month and boarded at Mr Bairds I hope she will do well {This section is very faint until Oct 26) May 9th Mr Ross called to see about getting Julia to teach his school May 10 Father and I went to see if we could get trusted a few dollars worth at Weares as we had only flour enough to last for supper but he said no He could not take care of anybodys family but his own we went to Mrs Armstrong four miles to borrow some money but no she had none on hand but she was ladylike and kind but oh how my heart ached I could not see why I lived. On our way home with heavy heart we called at Mr Quances our nearest neighbors (but a family who had taken (unreadable) from me some time before me and were very hard and oppressive (to me)) but father asked for to borrow 20 lbs for a few days not knowing where it would come from Mr Quance invited me in there we learned that there had been State relief at Larned Spearsville and then we felt cheered up 11th Mr Duncan Simpson and Grigsby came along said the relief was to be distributed at Spearsville thursday so we started for Jetmore to have the necessary papers and were obliged to stop at Mr Hanns, atty and editor found them pleasant people 12 went to Spearville found the state agent I think his name is Holloway or Hollowell a friendly man we received about $15 worth it rained on our way and we stopped at Mr Sheldons at (unreadable) I found Mrs Sheldon a nice friendly little woman 13 started for home got to Marena found they wanted me to teach their school stopped at Mr Hayes for dinner and commenced page 47 school in the afternoon with 8 pupils 14 taught school 15 thought I would walk home but the river had raised in the draw and I came back. 16 taught as usual nothing uncommon to note 17 taught 18 taught and walked home to see my family they were all glad to see me I did all I could for them and went back in the morning I boarded through the week at Mr Keyes May 23 I commenced boarding at Mr Haines staid here two weeks except I went home Friday and helped (unreadable) little Etoile housekeeper I afterwards boarded two weeks at Mr Wm Keyes found them very pleasant and kind to me with three nice bright scholars for me I now am boarding about 2 � miles to Mr Langs found them very pleasant and kind but the creek came up and I go to Mr Hamms this time they receive me very cooly and they don't like to board me although they send four scholars and have not boarded their time out I manage to finish up the week I now go a week to Mr Bartos 2 � miles find them tolerably pleasant rather plain fare I now go back to pleasant Mr Langs for another week then board another week to Mr Keyes I now go to Mr D(unreadable) a german family whom all look upon as though beneath them but I thought I would go a few days and please the two little children they send if their ways were different from ours and the walk was a long one but I went there found page 48 them very kind willing to gratify my slightest wish Then I thought it was best to be kind to everyone and despise none without it was for some wrong I then finished up my time at Mr Hamms although they were very cool at times before school closed try to be more friendly Father brought Julia from her school the day when my school closed I went home that evening and set up all night to get the little ones ready for coming to my school the next day but in the morning the rain poured down This was July 29th� We had a rainy morning but it cleared off in the afternoon for my scholars nearly all had some nice little piece to speak then I called upon my four youngest children commencing at Louis little seven year old boy to speak Mothers Fool (?) which he spoke nicely then Little (unreadable) by Grace five years old then Collies piece Charge of the Six Hundred which was nicely done Then my little Etoile twelve years old Oh why should the spirit of mortal be Proud nicely spoken Julia Grandfather Mr Henson (?) and Mr J Heyes(?)? were our guests Now about the 1st of Aug we hired a man to mow for us 9 days then father and the children with my help put it into stack Julia attended one at middle branch during this time also went to Mr Bairds collecting her school money after deducting the account had $38.25 out of $45 he had but we page 49 could do no better I had taken up one month of my wages and could not collect any more but before this money came we sold our beautiful Lightning for $120 then I paid up debts bought shoes for us all fixed up my harness and bought other things necessary for the horses bought a cow for $35 after looking to or three days about the last of Aug Mrs Waterman came and staid two weeks with us we made a dress for her we gathered plums and grapes and made them up attended another Institute (?) and I was chosen as one of the Committee to arrange a programme for one in Nov Mr Baird wished me to teach school I told him I would teach for $20 a month for 4 (?) months (unreadable) 16th [Sept?] Father and Collie go to the office to meet Belle and Jennie we were very glad to their precious letter (unreadable) so wise and dear Belle she seemed like one of our family We had traded Black Tiger for another Horse and $50 and Belle (unreadable) little (unreadable) brought it to me then we took her to town Sept 20 so to take the cars at Larned Staid all night at the Larned house The next day I paid for (unreadable) page 50 and lodging and went without myself until I bought some crackers father would have went without but I told him to get his breakfast I put a Homestead on his land and bought lumber for the house and barn to be fixed and paid the carpenter and .75 I had owed him for two years. We stoped at Mr Waterman the 21st and they spoke to me about teaching their school I told them I would drop them a card if I would and I went home worked very hard for the home I staid collected another months pay of my summer school and Friday morning the last day of Sept Julia and I started to Larned to the teachers examination to be held the next day we staid at Mr Watermans they were very kind and seemed glad to see us we here met a Mrs Smith who was going to be examined she rode down with us and we found her a pleasant lady we were (crossed out) was examined at did better than I expected but as our Institute lasted right after five oclock we had to wait at Mr W until Monday when he took me to town and I received my certificate then Mr Waterman took me to several directors and friends in the district and introduced me and I had to go page 51 home to get ready to come back in time to commence school the next Monday we worked hard although Julia was not well and started Sunday about noon and arrived here the 9th of Oct at 11 oclock at night but Mr Ws people were kind and as they could not let us have a room until Friday night we were not settled before Sunday. I commenced school with 13 scholars the 10 of Oct in a very pleasant and comfortable house with everything nice and convenient Last week we had two more new scholars things passed on place smoothly until Thursday evening when I when I was asked to come and see one of my little scholars who was very sick I started right off in company with Mrs Waterman I feared the child would not live I staid as late as I could as I was not needed but in the morning the news came that she died at 10 oclock after I left They wanted me to not have school as she was to be buried that day I went and helped to prepare her for the grave with a sad heart thinking how I should page 52 feel if one of my darlings were taken from me [Oct} 27 (?) we washed and sewed and worked very hard my arms pained me terribly I had forgotten to say I was obliged to sell a yearling colt to pay a debt of less than $4.00 and borrowed $5 beside a few days before I came here I lent one of my neighbors Mr Grigsby $5.00 to be paid in ten days Last Sunday Mr Waterman told me the district had objected to my having some of my children stay with me and go to school also he did not want little Grace here only on a visit I felt very sad and sorry for my children who expected to have an opportunity to come after Christmas for mrs W spoke in the first place about my children coming here she is afraid there will be too many in the house I pay 1.50 a week and I think it is enough Mr Waterman has appeared very cold I don't know why I have tried to be kind and make myself agreeable This morning she brought me in part of a rabbit dressed 4 sweet potatoes and some pickled beets which was very kind Julia feels bad at so much coolness for she has been treated like a lady as page 53 she deserves she thinks it strange that Josie dont invite her in when she has Co it seems like ignorance or meanness on Josies part but never mind it is better to suffer wrong than do wrong Oct 23rd 1881 Oct 24th taught school one new scholar Oct 25 cool and looked like rain in the morning pleasant in afternoon had no fire I have a pleasant school Our supper was bread and jelly Bought a qt of milk after supper wrote in Lucys Autograph 26th taught school nothing particular to notice 27 (crossed out) Only we called at Mrs Hallets when we got most home met Emma (one of my scholars) who wanted us to supper with them I cut a pattern of a cloak for her 27 Taught school and took tea with Mrs Griffin and finished cutting the cloak She was very kind it makes one feel happy to meet with people who are kind 28 was (unreadable) to Mr Hallets took tea with them staid part of the evening and had a present of a goose finished nearly a mitten for Grace and sought some Examples in Philosophy and Arithmetic for Julia Sometimes ones head feels clear and heart lighter page 54 29th rather misty this morning Julia went to town and did a little traiding for me I cleaned my floor baked and ironed in the evening my throat began to feel sore I took a few little remedies put a cold cloth on it and went to bed it felt bad but 11:30 this morning was better now it feels bad again I hope it is not going to be serious Mrs W acted rather cool but I tried to be pleasant and after a while she was very kind and good It is always best to not let little grievances disturb us too much We had a letter from dear father and the precious children That God would bless them all and make everything as pleasant for them as is for their good is my prayer 30th Today is Sunday (crossed out) I taught as usual Nov (unreadable) It has been nearly a week since I wrote school affairs moved along nicely I had two new scholars I have two teachers as my pupils Friday we had speaking and then spelled down Julia spelled the school down and done it fairly and beautifully She chose sides with Lucy a girl of 16 who drew all her scholars except one from her then Julia spelled against her whole side and done nicely Lucy said her side had the hardest words which was unjust for Julia spelled every word they missed It is bad to be envious I have spent the day with little Grace as Julia called upon a lady by request who lost her little daughter page 55 this evening we have written to father and the children to Prof Baird and a card to Dr Gowdy. I must retire and rest for my duties this week hope our school will get along nicely hope everything will be pleasant for me. Nov 7th Two more schollars one 20 one 18 Nov 8th three more new schollars Nov 9 cold and rainy we got wet and everything was disagreeable Mr Waterman brought me a pail of water and one of coal Nov 10th snow on the ground and cold our first snow this season Mr W[aterman] took us to school and brought us back Nov 11th Mr W[aterman] brought us from school School spelled down Charles W[aterman]and George Hallett chose both sides went down on the same ward 12th I moped ironed some and finished Mrs As dress Josie spent part of the evening with us Julia was not well but studied some I worked examples in Arithmetic 13th Sunday how I wish I could see father and the children at home it has been very pleasant and sunny today Oh how anxious I am for my children to grow up to be honest and true at all times be true to yourself and you can page 56 wrong no one. 14th School as usual I have nothing particular to note through this week only the teachers were 9unreadable) not to go home sorry they can't go more often 19th Julia went to town got a letter from Harriet 20th Sunday pleasant Bertha took supper with us wrote to father played on the Organ in the evening 21 Bertha went to school today everything agreeable 22 Scholars did well in lessons 23 All things were pleasant 24 Thanksgiving we all should feel thankful for all our blessings Julia and I baked and sewed and did a nice days work as we were not invited out Josie went to Mr Jenkins to see Addie home but she did not come Julia staid with her mamma 25 Lessons well learned school passed off pleasantly 26 we moped and sewed all day and did well Mr Grigsby to supper a line from home to pay $22 for meat 27 Sunday Julia and Grace took supper with Mrs Waterman I wrote to father I was going to iron some needed articles when Mrs W[aterman] said it seemed a common occurrence when I resolved if my example was bad I would try and iron in the morning Dec 18th I have not written for a long time I have been teaching My school is quite page 57 prosperous. We have no snow on the ground It looks some like a storm but I am sitting without a fire. I shall go home in one week more for a vacation of a week My school has been in session 10 weeks and Julia only lacks two pages of being through her Arithmet The little ones at home have to help themselves as well they can but I shall give them a chance after awhile Grace will commence the second reader tomorrow. Larned Jan 1st 1882 The old year has gone with all its lights and shadows never more to return Oh how the years roll on I am alone Julia and Grace have gone home Julia to return soon I hope and precious baby Grace I fear I shall not see again until school closes and the time seems long The time in school has passed off page 58 pleasantly until vacation. I closed for a week vacation I looked for dear father after us Friday He is so prompt not withstanding the roads were bad after our recent snow storm I waited Saturday and Sunday and until Monday eve when I thought the roads were so bad he would not come and told Mr WI would commence school tuesday would send the scholars word and did so had every family except one told and went to school fifteen schollars came among them Charley Waterman a young man nearly 20 years of age. When he got there instead of coming in school influenced 3 others to go away and not come for a week he being the oldest influenced the others I was very sorry to see them influenced and thought him very unmanly and unkind I came home at night but said nothing to his folks as I supposed they understood it all Josie their daughter came home and tried to make her mother think Julia had said her brother lied which she did not - well instead of the mother coming to me with an apology for her sons behavior gave me the cold shoulder as people say as if I was the page 59 offender in not pleasing her son and began to talk to her family about myself and daughter being unprincipled as Julia passed through I could hardly believe she meant us for I could not think of anything Julia could be blamed for as she had did nothing. My wise little daughter thought I better speak to Mr Waterman as he was a director and see what all this rumpus was about, vulgarly speaking. I saw him out door as I thought best to speak to him alone. He said he thought I ought to have seen how many would come before I commenced school said he had no objection going if there would be enough scholars that he would not compel his children to go but advised them to go. called upon another one whose boys had been influenced away he said he thought it would be best to have no more school that week. I think he was conservative and wanted to please the Watermans. His wife is a nice woman he may be good but I don't like to see people always astride of the fence. I went to school had eleven scholars. Mr W[aterman] kept Josie out to make themselves disagreeable or have their own way page 60 I kept school Wednesday and told the children we would have no more until tomorrow although I could not go home to my little lambs I forgot to say when I was talking with Mr W[aterman] out came his wife said She thought I was unprincipled when I had promised a holaday (sic) that my affairs had nothing to do with the school. And turned to Julia who stood near me said you said my boy lied I am done with you(unreadable) Julia did not reply as she thought she was (Mrs W[aterman]) in no frame of mind to reason but that when she retuned would (unreadable) Charles It was not so At night we came home very sad when to our delight we see father had come out of such sad news My beautiful Cleopatra had fallen down in coming up a slick bank and could not get up father had some hopes of her but yesterday the man who takes care of her said she was no better. I am afraid I shall loose and she is worth more than all I shall earn this winter and spring I hope the Lord will restore her as good as ever for he can if he thinks best I feel to trust the Lord today and hope I shall live nearer to him each day through my life. I thank for all my blessings and shall page 61 try to trust him for everything in future I hope he will take care of my family in my absence and that no accident or evil may happen to any of them and will comfort them all I hope my dear Julia and L[ouis] may get here all safe soon. I hope God will bless those who are kind to us and I must try to do right by those who make us feel so unhappy The past week has been an unhappy one but I hope joy will come in the morning. page 62 This is Mrs. Jennie B. Simons Diary written in her own hand and don't you forget it. While she was teaching school & putting on style and agony.