Diary of Hannah Marsh Inman
September 1 1854-December 31 1855
Manuscript Collection, Worcester Historical Museum, transcribed by Holly V. Izard January 2 2000
General Information about Hannah Marsh Inman:
Hannah Marsh Inman (? - ?) and husband Francis Henry Inman were Quakers from Rhode Island. They married in 1840 and removed to Worcester in 1849, where Francis found work as a clerk in the iron and steel business of Joseph Pratt & Company. In 1855 he was made a partner.
Like most middle-class wives in the mid-19th century Hannah spent a good portion of her time tending hearth and home. Also like many others, she actively participated in the world around her, attending reform lectures, meeting with leading abolitionists, attending a woman’s rights convention in Boston and the Worcester Women’s Anti-Slavery Sewing Circle meetings.
Note: She spelled names somewhat irregularly and she omitted punctuation entirely. The names retain their various spellings but punctuation has been added for readability. Where words cannot be decoded I have inserted [word unintelligible]. In some cases her spelling is clear, but the words do not make sense. They are followed by [sic].
Hannah and her husband are Quakers from Rhode Island. They removed to Worcester where her husband pursued a career in manufacturing. Hannah recorded going to anti-slavery lectures and discussion groups, joining the anti-slavery sewing circle, attending a woman's convention in Boston, as well as hearing many other speakers and musical performances. She also kept a record of her daily rounds of domestic work, callers, family visits, and books read.
Sept the 1 1854
1 At home all day doing a little of all sorts. George and Edmund left at night for Southbridge. Quite rainy.
2 Baking day. A call from Mr. and Mrs. Wheeler. PM cleaned the wood house. Worked until night. Very tired.
3 Sabbath morning head feels very bad, not energy enough to go to meeting. The rest all gone and I am left alone. Miss Farnum called at noon. Evening went to the Hall. Subject, Be not weary in well doing.
4 Washing day. Very busy all day. Evening took a short walk with Francis.
5 Ironing baking and boiling. Very warm indeed. PM James O. Inman here to tea. Evening went out to the common music.
6 Headache. Remained in the house until night then called on Mrs. Goulding. PM the Boys went down to Mr. Lincoln's. Evening a very hard thunder shower. Katy had company. Thus endeth one more day of my life.
7 Some cooler this morning. PM went to the Boston Depot to see a lady, did not find her. Called on Mrs. Ware, found her quite unwell. Edward Marsh here to tea, stayed all night. 8 Took the cars with Edward for Sterling Camp meeting. Arrived there in season to attend the love fest. Mrs. G, Mrs. Ward, Mrs. M. joined us at 12 o'clock. Returned in the evening train.
9 Baking day as usual preparing for the Sabbath. PM E. called on his way home.
10 Very stormy all day. At home Albert sick with teethache and Wille worse than that. We was as cross as H[ell] and as for myself I could not think a thought nor read. Understandingly a gloomy day.
11 Washing and cleaning all day. A call from Mrs. Reed and Sister. So tired tonight taht I feel very irritable indeed.
12 Ironing and baking. PM a call from Mrs. Barber. Francis came with a carriage and carried me over to Doracss. Very pleasant time.
13 Preparing for company. Mrs. Ware spent the day. PM Mrs. Cutting , Mrs. Moesly, Mrs. Starr, and Mr. Starr here to tea, very social company.
14 Francis gone to Boston and I am putting the house in order. PM a box of grapes came from home by express. Mrs. Ward and Mrs. Barber came, went to Mrs. Goulding's to tea. Commenced raining and rained all night.
15 Making jelly of grapes, very dull. PM went out to do some shopping. Called on Mrs. Colwell. Eve reading.
16 Baking day again with a great many other things. PM a call from Mrs. Barber and another lady. Evening attended the antislavery meeting.
17 Went to the hall, heard Wendall Phillips. A very good discourse indeed. PM to the City Hall, heard 2 or 3 speak.
18 We all know what comes after Sunday. PM Charlotte Bond here to tea. Evening went home with her. On our way back called on Mrs. M. Very tired indeed.
19 Ironing, making peach pies and chicken soup. PM O[liver] A. Inman came.
20 Making peach preserve. Oliver here. PM Mrs. Barber, and Sibil Worcester here to tea. A call form a lady and little girl. Eve we went part way home with them.
21 Baking meat pies in midst ton? of it company came from Westb[wd unclear], Scituate, and Connecticut here to dinner. PM went out shopping and then to the Depot. Came home oh so tired. Evening called on Mrs. Strong.
22 Finishing some pieces of work. Called on a poor family. PM Katy went to assist her cousin. A call from Ann and Miss Farnum. Two ladies out soliciting for the Bazaar.
23 Baking day, preparing for company with headache. PM two ladies called. After they left went to bed. Oliver and Matilda came in the 6 o'clock train to make a visit.
24 Sabbath Morning went to the hall. PM to Mr. Hale's church. Evening to the hall again. Subject, where with shall a young man cleanse his ways. It was very interesting indeed.
25 Brings washing with all the rest. PM went out shopping. After that visited the Antiquarian Hall.
26 Ironing and boiling, cleaning chamber. Oliver and wife left at night. Very bad cold, did not go out at all. Sick at night.
27 Ezekiel came for me to go over there. PM came home, found a lady here. Lewis Thompson and wife came to dinner. Eliza March and O.A. Inman here to tea and a call from Mr. Morris. After tea went to the Bazaar with Francis and Eliza. Headache all night.
28 Sick this morning, could not go out at all during the day. Eve a lady called to get boarded.
29 Very busy this morning. PM Charles Burns came and a call from Sarah P. Thompson. After they left went out [and] bought a table and glass. Evening Agnes Pender came to board with us for a while. After tea we all went to Horticultural Hall, a very fine display of fruit and vegetables and the flowers were splendid.
30 Baking day has come again and company with it. James' wife came in the 9 2 train. Oliver soon after. Both here to dinner. PM James came to go to Horace's. Left about 5.
October the 1 1854
1 Sabbath day. Francis and the boys went to Friends meeting. The rest of us at home. Evening went to the hall, heard a horse sermon.
2 Washing day. Oliver came in the morning, PM Mrs. Comstock and two children form Providence. A call from Dorcas and Mary Ann. James and wife [invited?] Oct 4 here to tea. E. Bacon all night. Oh, so tired what shall I do?
3 Preparing to go down to Rhode Island. PM two callers took the cars at half past 4 for Wilsonville. Found Simeon badly hurt by the kick of a horse.
4 We started for Burrillville, arrived there between 10 and 11, found them all comfortable. PM we all met at brother George's, all but one from Providence. Mother here to dinner.
5 Started for home with Warner. Came as far as Simeon's, stopped to dinner then took the 2 o'clock train for Worcester. Arrived safe, found Francis at the Depot. A call from Mrs. Worcester and daughter, also Mrs. Larned, Mrs. Comstock, and Charles Burns. Evening we had music, vocal and instrumental. Thus endeth one more day.
6 Another day has dawned with all its cares and labor. A call from Mr. Larned. Mother came to make a visit. Dorcas and Charles to spend the day. A call from James and Mrs. Comstock. PM Ezekiel and John Daniels came and Miss Farnum. Evening the two Ezekiels came.
7 Baking day again. Mother, Charles, and Horace here to dinner. PM left for Paxton & for Northbridge. A call from Mr. and Mrs. Drydon, Mrs. Comstock and two children. I am so tired, what shall I do?
8 Did not go out at all during the day. Evening went to the hall. A very good discourse indeed. No one here today.
9 A very hard day' work. Oh that I had strength to do all that is required of me to do. Simeon came, stayed all night.
10 Baking day again and ironing. Very tired and dull indeed. Brother Simeon left this morning. PM Mrs. Worcester and daughter here to tea. A call from Mary and baby, also Mr. Pearson. Thus ended another day.
11 Headache this morning and gloomy. A call from Mrs. Morse of Grafton. James Osburn here to dinner. PM some better. A call from Mrs. Dudly and daughter and Miss Cately. Evening passed in reading. Kate gone to a wake.
12 Mother came from Paxton on her way home. Oliver came in the 2 o'clock train here to dinner. They both left in the 4 [o'clock] train. After that I went to see Mrs. Moesly and Mrs. Clemons, both sick. Francis came after me. Evening went to see the picture at the City Hall. The girls to the concert at Brinley [Hall].
13 Sewing. PM went to Grove St to carry Sibel's dress. Called at Mrs. W's, a call from Mrs. Reed.
14 Baking day again. Edward Marsh called. Evening reading. PM very rainy.
15 Went to the hall. Heard Mr. Fiske, subject, Watchman, what of the night. The remainder of the day and evening I passed in reading.
16 Washing day again. A call from Sarah Thompson. Evening went to the City Hall to hear O.S. Fowler.
17 Very dull and gloomy. Edmund Bacon came. PM Sarah T. and Mrs. Randall, Mrs. Maccarty, and E.B. Eve, reading.
18 James Osburn called. Mrs. Blake came to invite us to Mr. Morse's. E. Bacon came after his dog. PM went there to tea and spent the evening.
19 Repairing old clothes all day. A call from Simeon. Evening reading. Girls gone to lecture.
20 Baking mince pies and bread. A call from Mrs. Barber. Katy washing. PM went to see Mrs. Moesly. Called on Mrs. Ware and Starr. E. Bacon called. Evening reading. Girls to lecture again.
21 Baking squash pies and apple also. Katy ironing. PM went to Grove St again. Evening to the City Hall to hear Mr. Perry on Popery.
22 Attended meeting at the Hall. Subject, the inner light. It was excellent. PM to the African Church. Evening to the Hall again. Remarks on the Convention held in Philadelphia last week. Sibil Worcester here to tea. A call from Mr. and Mrs. Barber.
23 Washing day again. Simeon, Oliver, and James Osburn here.
24 Went out to carry my bonnet. Called to Mrs. Worcester's. Evening sewing. Very tired. Ironing and baking and boiling in the morning.
25 Cleaning house until noon. PM we went out with the boys to get them some clothes. A call from Mrs. Ellis. Eve put down carpets. Another call.
26 Roasting turkey and sundry other things. Mrs. Worcester here to dinner. PM a call from Miss Farnum. Mrs. Marsh and daughter came for a visit. Evening went to the levee, came back [and] found brother George here.
27 George left this morning for home. Mary out shopping. PM we went out together. Evening they left for home. Very tired indeed.
28 Baking day again. A call from Mrs. Worcester. Eve went to the advent meeting. Eliza and Agness gone home.
29 Attended Friends meeting in the morning. PM at home. Evening to the hall, a very good discourse. After services went to the City Hall to an AntiSlavery discussion.
30 Washing day has come again and a rainy one too. Evening attended a lecture on Geology. Very interesting indeed.
31 Most sick. Went to bed. Feel rather better this afternoon. Let Katy have five dollars and 372 cents. Evening to lecture.
Nov the 1 1854
1 Repairing boys' coats. Katy cleaning. PM went to Miss Farnum's. Evening to the lecture very bad cold indeed.
2 Ironing very large this week. Eliza called home, a call from a lady and baby. PM Mrs. Oday came to wash windows and blinds. Mrs. Pierce from Milbury here. Mr. Wing of Northbridge called. Evening went to service[?] of the Old South Church, a perfect jam, no satisfaction at all in going to such a place. 3 Cleaning house again. Hope to get through today. A call from Mrs. Ware, also from Mrs. Milton Earle and Mrs. Southwick.
4 Sick headache all day. Baking in the morning. PM went to bed sick.
5 Head very bad this morning. PM rather better. Mrs. Worcester here. At noon went out a little while. Evening at home.
6 Washing day again. In the midst of it Uncle John Meader and family came [&] H. Thompson and a lady from Manchester. Uncle on his way to a [blank]. Eliza came this morning. PM they left in the 4 o'clock train. An invitation to a wedding to Northbridge. Evening attended the lecture.
7 Baking and ironing. Doct. Southwick's wife came in the 9 2 train. I went with her to Miss Farnum's. PM both here. Went to the Depot with them. Evening took the boys to lecture. Thus endeth one more confused day of my life, toothache thrown in which is very amusing.
8 I feel very irritable indeed this morning, being awake with the teeth ache half the night. PM went out with Mrs. Baker to see a sick woman. Evening to the lecture. Enjoyed it very much indeed.
9 Baking again. I am weary of well-doing. Alone all day repairing a coat for Francis. Evening went to hear Henry Ward Beecher.
10 Baking bread and pies. Company from Northbridge. Mrs. Wing and little boy, Mrs. Breed and daughter, and H. Thompson. PM we all went to E. Daniel's, spent the afternoon and evening.
11 Baking cake and squash pies. Mrs. Wing came to take the 11 train down. PM went to the City Hall to an entertainment for parents and children. After went to Mrs. Ware's, stayed until the evening lecture, the last of the course. Very interesting.
12 Still raining. At home all day. Evening Mr. and Mrs. Baker and Harriot here. Francis to the Hall.
13 A very large wash today. Raining vary hard all day. PM a call from H. Thompson on her way home. Eve at home.
14 Baking bread and pies and boiling dinner. PM went out shopping. Mrs. Taylor called while I was gone. Eve at home. Retired very early.
15 Ironing and boiling pie meat. PM tied a comforter. Evening sewing. Warner called. Preparing to make mince pies. It has snowed all day.
16 Cleaning this morning with headache and teeth ache. PM went out shopping, bought a dress. Came back to the poliece [sic] room. Stayed a few minutes, came home. Teeth ache all night.
17 Baking some in the morning. PM went to bed. Evening I cannot describe what I suffered with my teeth but I have every reason to be grateful for so good a husband. He tried his best to relieve me.
18 Feel very bad this morning form the effects of the morphine. Tried to finish my baking but gave it up. PM vomited smartly and went to bed. Evening rather better, slept very well through the night.
19 Feel quite like myself again, and thank my Heavenly Father for it. Went to the Hall, heard a very good discourse from Paul's writings, Prove all things, hold fast that which is good. Evening went again, subject, free action.
20 Washing day again with all the rest. Very tired indeed. PM finished a book from the Library. Evening attended Doct Bointon's lecture with Francis and the boys.
21 Ironing and baking. PM cleaning woodhouse, mending some. Evening to lecture again, very interesting indeed.
22 Katy ironing and I am mending and picking up rags. A very gloomy day. Eve took the Omnibus with Francis and Wille and went to lecture.
23 Baking cake and chicken pie. PM settled with the girls and paid Katy 14 dollars and 63 cents. Went out to the auction room, came home with the teeth ache. Put some morphine in them. It effected me very unpleasantly indeed.
24 Baking mince pies, very tired. Rested in the afternoon. Evening Mr. and Mrs. Goulding and son were here, very social time. Left at 10.
25 Baking bread, brown [&] white, and cake, and boiling dinner. PM cleaning until night. Eve so tired I was a cross as H[ell] and Francis says as 2 of them put together.
26 Attended meeting at the Hall, a thanksgiving discourse. Very good. PM went to the Old South Church. Evening to the first Baptist, heard Mr. Waland, 2 baptised.
27 Washing very early this morning. PM ironing some. Eve to lecture. Went in to Horticultural Hall a little while.
28 Ironing and baking again. PM a call from Dorcas. Mending for Albert [wd unintelligible] until dark. Took a walk to Mrs. Worcester's, had a ride home. Evening at home mending stockings.
29 Finished Albert's waste. PM preparing to go to Southbridge, the girls bound for home. Went to the depot a quarter to 4, waited until 5 before the train came. Arrived there about half past 7, very tired indeed. Snowing and raining all day and eve.
30 Pleasant but very cold and windy. Francis and Mary went to church. I remained in the house all day. Very dull indeed. Evening Mary had company tea at 9 o'clock.
1854
December the 1 1854
1 Took the stage at 7 for Charlton. After a very rough and tedious ride arrived in time for the cars to Worcester. Came home, found Haty with a good fire which was very acceptable. PM washing some and sewing some, eve writing and reading.
2 Baking and cleaning all day. Evening reading. Another has ended with all its cares and toils which are very numerous as every housekeeper knows.
3 Went to the hall to meeting a discourse on Marriage. Very good indeed. At home the remainder of the day. Company in the evening. Storming severely. Francis went to hear the remainder of the morning's subject.
4 Washing day again. Company left in the 11 o'clock train. PM sewing some. Eve to lecture with teethe ache that is enough for one entertainment.
5 Ironing some. Headache all day. PM Haty gone, had to cook for tea. Eve doing nothing but ache.
6 Washing some and mending most of the day. Evening teeth ache for amusement, retired very early.
7 Lavinia came at 8 to work. Went to the dentist, had three old roots taken out and one decayed one. Dorcas here to dinner. Evening Horace and Ann came. We all went to the concert at Brinley Hall.
8 Lavinia here all day sewing. PM a call form Miss Farnum. Went on to the Street to do some shopping. Eve Francis gone to lecture. Set up until 11 o'clock, very tired.
9 Baking day. Lavinia left this morning. Very busy all day. Eve reading.
10 Went to the Hall to meeting. Albert Kelly and wife here to dinner and supper. Went to the City Hall afternoon and evening.
11 Oh such a washing is enough to discourage anyone. Worked until most night. Eve reading.
12 Baking cake and boiling dinner. Company from Wilsonville [Rhode Island] PM. Left at 4 for home. Feel very gloomy. Oh Father in Heaven guide me through life and at last receive me in to thy rest.
13 Ironing and mending. PM boys gone to the rehearsal preparing for the Christmas tree eve reading.
14 Lavinia came this morning to finish my work. Sewing all day and eve a call from Miss Clark and Mrs. SomethingCI have forgotten.
15 Still at work on dresses. Oh how tired I am of it. Evening Dorcas and Ezekiel here. Lavinia left tonight.
16 Baking and cleaning all day. Evening sewing.
17 At home all day reading queecly [sic]. Lavinia here to dinner.
18 Washing day again. PM reading. Eve the same.
19 Doing a little of all sorts. PM a call from Charles Marsh. After he left went to Mrs. Fales's with Mrs. Band, Miss Cenedy [Kennedy]. A call from Miss C.
20 Sewing. Eliza out. Finished work. PM went out shopping. Called to Mrs. Worcester's. Sibil came home with us, stayed all night. James and Nancy where to dinner.
21 Left about 10. [sic] Preparing to make mince pies. PM a call from Mary Mann and cousin. Evening George Stiness came, went to lecture with us, stayed overnight.
22 Baking bread and pies. PM George left in the 4 o'clock train for Springfield. Eve to hear John P. Hale.
23 Finished my baking. Horace and family here to dinner on their [way] to Rhode Island. Simeon and Hannah here. PM Mary Mann and cousin came for me to make a call. Ann and family left at 4, then called on Mrs. Larned. Took tea with Mrs. Goulding and spent the evening. Francis and Agness came. Very pleasant time.
24 Storming. Went to meeting in the morning. PM roasted a turkey with all the other fixings. Eve went again.
25 Katy gone all day. My work was very hard. Evening attended a Christmas festival. Very pleasant time. I cannot say now that silver and gold have I none, for I have a little of both now presented in the form of a gold pen by my very kind husband. Also a book for which I feel very greatly indeed.
26 Kate came to wash. Warren here to dinner. PM sewing some. Kate left about 5. Evening reading.
27 Sick headache, kept [to] the bed most of the day. Evening better.
28 Kate came to clean her room. PM Eliza left bag and baggage. Lessons that we learn from experience we are apt to remember some time.
29 Alone all day putting things in order. PM went to the high school examination. Evening Mr. Fay came with a girl for us. After they left we went to the City Hall to hear Cas M. Clay.
30 Baking day. Kate came at 9 to iron, Joanna at 10, another girl on trial. PM took the Omnibus, went to Summer St, came back to the City Hall, spent the remainder of the afternoon and evening. 31 At home all day busy all the forenoon. PM reading some in Ida May. Eve went to meeting, a very good discourse indeed on the closing up of the old year.
1855
January 1 1855 Monday
1 Monday morning brings washing with all the rest, sick headache thrown in. PM feel rather better. Went out shopping, bought a cut of cloth, paid 3 dollars and 49 cents, handkerchief 50 [cents], lace 16 [cents]. Came home with teeth ache. Found Miss Farnum and niece had been waiting ro me. Evening boys gone to a party, Agness to Milbury. Francis and I were left alone for the first time in a long while.
2 Joanna ironing and boiling dinner. Paid 6 cents for C [sic]. PM Mrs. Starr and Moesly came, [they and] their husbands here to tea and spent the evening, very pleasant time. Agness came home in the 6 o'clock train.
3 Head and teeth ache all the day. Tied 2 comforters with the help of Agness and Joanna. PM Mrs. Worcester came here to tea. Went to bed sick. Oh my head. Father give me patience to bear all that may come upon me.
4 Feel rather better this morning. Mrs. Pratt called [and] invited us to tea. PM Agness left for home in the 4 2 train. Mary Moesly came with 2 bottles of catchup [ketchup]. Went to Mr. Pratt's at half past 5, a very pleasant company.
5 Washing some and sewing. Evening attended the Antislavery lecture given by Theo. Parker of Boston. [title: AThe Influence and Prospects of Slavery@]
6 Baking day again. Joanna Ironing. PM cleaning. James and wife came, went to Ezekiel's. Eve at work on a comforter.
7 At home all day. PM Francis and the boys went to Friends meeting, then to Ezekiel's home to tea. Eve reading.
8 Washing day again, rather gloomy. PM went out shopping, purchased coffee and tea pot with other articles. Paid 12 dollars and 57 cents. Evening went to hear Henry W. Beecher, a crowded house and capital lecture. 25 cents for tickets and 10 for book.
9 Ironing and baking meat pies. James and wife came for a visit. PM Horace and family called on their way home. Dorcas and John came to spend the afternoon and eve a call from Mrs. Lincoln. Ezekiel came for Dorcas and Jonny.
10 Cleaning some and sewing. James and wife gone out shopping. A call from Lavinia. Eve reading. Francis and James out until 9.
11 Company left this morning in the 7 [o'clock] train. A call from Miss Mclain with an invitation to Mr. Starr's to tea. PM accordingly went, very pleasant time. Mr. and Mrs. Moesly there.
12 Sewing some. Joanna washing. PM a call from Simeon, also Mrs. Reed. Head ache all the evening.
13 Sick all day. Baking some. Went to bed forenoon and afternoon a call from Mrs. Barber. Evening rather better.
14 Went to the Hall in the morning. At home the remainder of the day reading, Mrs. Stow's Sunny Memories of Foreign Lands.
15 Washing day has come again. PM carried some clothing down to Pine Meadow for Mr. O'Connor, another bundle to Mrs. Oday.
16 A very large ironing, both of us at work. PM sewing.
17 Preparing to make mince pies. PM went out shopping, bought yarn, shoes, and gloves. Paid for yarn and hose 1.42, for gloves 62 2 cents and 25 [cents].
18 Very rainy all day, doing a little of all sorts. Evening sewing. Francis teaching.
19 Sewing all day and evening very tired indeed.
20 Baking mince and squash pies and bread. PM a call from Mrs. Goulding and Thayer. Eve attended a lecture at the City Hall by Leo to the Roman Catholics.
21 Went to meeting this morning. Heard the Rev. Mr. May of Syracuse, New York. Evening attended an AntiSlavery lecture, very good indeed.
22 Raining very hard all the morning. Edward Marsh here to dinner. PM left for New York in the four o'clock train. Went to see Lavinia, on my way home called on Mrs. Tabor.
23 Sewing all day. PM a call from Miss Farnum. Evening went to the City Hall to hear Leo.
24 Joanna ironing. PM took the Omnibus at 4, went to see Mrs. Worcester, found her rather better.
25 Sewing. PM Francis carried me over to Mr. Larned's, spent afternoon and evening. George Marsh here, stayed all night. A call form Matilda.
26 Lavinia came to make boys pants. George left in the 11 [o'clock] train. Very stormy all day and evening.
27 Worked all day about house baking and cleaning. Lavinia left at night. Francis went to see his mother. Evening went to lecture.
28 Attended meeting in the morning. At home the remainder of the day, and eve reading Margaret Davidson's biography.
29 Washing day. PM Matilda came back, went to the Depot with her, saw Mr. Talor. Called on Mrs. Reed. Evening sewing.
30 Lavinia came to alter my dress. PM Dorcas came for me to go to Milton Earle's, accordingly went. On my return bought a pair of boots, paid 2 dollars for them. Cloth 1 dollar and 9 cents, thread 12 2 cents.
31. Doing a little of all sorts. PM Ezekiel came after me, spent afternoon and eve. Francis came to tea, quite a company. Two callers. [23 dollars and 10 cents penned at the end of this entry with no explanation.]
February the 1 1855
1 Sewing. Ann here to dinner. PM Miss [name not intelligible] here. Evening went to lecture, subject Young America.
2 At home all day sewing. Evening preparing for Saturday.
3 Baking day. PM a call from Mrs. Ware. Evening at home.
4 Attended meeting morning and evening, subject, everywhere and in all things I am instructed.
5 A very busy day indeed. PM a call from Mrs. Goulding. Eve went to concert for the benefit of the Orphan's Home.
6 Very cold indeed. Spent the day at Mr. Ware's. A large company in the evening, very social time. Two callers.
7 Preparing for quarterly meeting, a little of all sorts to do. PM Warner came, stayed all night.
8 Went to meeting. Aunt Abigail and Albert Kelly and wife here to dinner. PM brother left for Boston, the rest for home. Headache all day.
9 Sewing, Joanna washing. Storm. Evening attended an AntiSlavery lectured delivered by Frederick Douglas, very good indeed. [title: AThe Genius and History of the Anti-Slavery Movement@]
10 Very pleasant. PM had a beautiful sleigh ride to Paxton, returned about 9 in the evening.
11 Went to meeting morning and eve. Mr. and Mrs. Starr gave us a call. Nancy Prowly came to make a visit.
12 Washing day. PM went out shopping, bought 2 yards of linen, paid one dollar. Chair cover, one dollar, thread 16 cents. Evening went to a large party to Samuel Colton's, all had tea, fine time.
13 Very dull this morning. Nancy and self covering chairs. PM called on the Mrses Larneds. Evening at home.
14 Sewing in the morning. PM attend the AntiSlavery Circle. Evening at home. Paid one dollar and 12 2 cents.
15 At work on shirts. PM a call from Simeon. Very stormy.
16 Still storming. Sewing all day and evening Francis and Albert attended the Antislavery lecture.
17 Baking and boiling until noon. PM sewing.
18 Nancy left this morning. Paid her two dollars and 42 cents. Attended meeting. Subject, let me fall into the hands of the Lord but let me not fall into the hands of man. PM a short call from Doct. Martin. Francis and boys gone out to walk. Evening to the Hall again.
19 Joanna washing and I am doing house work. PM sewing.
20 Ironing and baking. A call from Doct. Clark's wife and child. PM one from Adeline Bradford of Grafton. Mr. and Mrs. Ware, Mr. and Mrs. Griffin, also Mr. Moesly and wife and daughter here to tea. Evening went to Mr. Moody's to a social gathering, very pleasant time indeed.
21 Putting the house in order. PM sewing.
22 Joanna sick. I am washing and cleaning house. PM very tired indeed.
23 Ironing. A call from Mrs. Larned and child, one from Mrs. Wheeler. PM Mrs. Worcester and daughter here to tea.
24 Baking and boiling until noon. PM went out shopping, bought one dozen of napkins, pd two dollars. Four yards of crash, fifty cents, lace sixty-three cents, a call form Ann Daniels on her way to Rhode Island. A call from Miss Farnum and niece. On my way home called on Mrs. Hathaway. Evening at home.
25 Attended meeting at the Hall. PM to Mr. Adams's. Eve at Home Commi[wd unintelligible].
26 Washing day again. A call from Horace. PM from Ann on her way home.
27 called on Mrs. Goulding. Warner here to dinner. Heard from all my friends. Evening reading the life of Burns.
28 Very busy, up to my eyes in lard. PM invited down stairs to tea for thef irst time. Music by Miss Barber. A call from Mrs. Colwell, very pleasant.
March the 1 1855
1 Attended an auction sale of crockery both morning and afternoon, made some purchases amounting to three dollars. Evening attended a lecture before the Lyceum delivered by the Rev. Mr. Chapin of New York City. Very good indeed. Received a letter from Doct. Se[unintelligible]. [Bought] Joanna a pair of shoes, 50 cents, yarn 18 cents.
2 Making soap. PM went to the funeral of Doct. Bassett, after to the AntiSlavery sewing circle, a goodly number out.
3 Baking and boiling. PM went to the Library, then called on Miss Farnum. Came home so tired I did not know what to do with myself and Francis gone to Rhode Island.
4 Headache all day. Attended meeting, came home, went to bed, very lonely.
5 Head still aching. Doing nothing all day. PM went to bed sick.
6 Some better this morning. PM went to Mr. Moesly's to tea. Came home [and] found Willie quite sick, put him in to a wet sheet.
7 Willie rather better today but sick myself, pain in my head and neck. Finished writing to Doct. Southwick's wife. PM a long call from Miss Farnum, Mrs. Moesly also from Mrs. Starr and sister.
8 Head rather better. PM went to the Depot to meet Olay[?] Thompson and family, from there to the cemetery [where] his little boy is entombed. They returned to the house with us, left in the 4 o'clock train.
9 Wille rather better, baking some. PM went to see Mrs. Rowly at her daughters, stayed to tea.
10 Baking again, attended the funeral of Ruth Earle. Doct. Toby and Mary Farnum for speakers.
11 Attended meeting at the hall, subject, Superstition and Idolatry. Very good indeed. Evening the same. Father in Heaven guide me in the way Thou wouldst have me go is the dire of thy child.
12 Joanna washing and I am doing house work all the morning. PM at home sewing.
13 Ironing. PM went out, bought a tea pot, paid 50 cents.
14 Baking bread and sewing. PM spent the afternoon and evening with Mrs. Goulding. Francis came to tea. A call from Doct. Martin, very pleasant time. Also Mr. and Mrs. Hall.
15 Morning doing a little of all sorts. PM took the Omnibus for Concord at [not given]. Came back at half past 3. A call from Miss Kennedy. Sewing until tea time. Eve reading.
16 Baking pies and fresh fish. PM went to Doct. Harris's office. Had eight teeth taken out. Very painful all the afternoon and evening. Paid Joanna 50 cents. 17 Rather better this morning finishing my baking, and boiling dinner. Joanna has company, came yesterday. At home all day. PM let Joanna have 5 dollars. Received a few lines from Jonny Stiness.
18 Attended meeting morning and evening, subject, Atheism, very good.
19 Washington day again. PM sewing.
20 Joanna ironing, had company, left in the midst of it [and] went off with them, which rather disturbed me being human yet [thought not finished]. Harrison Batchelor here to dinner. PM a call from Mrs. Griffin.
21 Baking mince pies and bread. Finished a piece of work. PM a call from [unintelligible] Mr. Brooks of Pascoag [sic], after he left I went to Mrs. Thayer's to tea. Husband came after me.
22 Called on Mrs. Strong, found her better. A lovely morning this and yet I am sad. Father guide me though the day, let me never from thee stray, give me self control that I may make others happier around me. PM Mrs. Worcester, Mrs. Goulding, Mrs. Morse and little boy here to tea. After they left I went to Mr. Griffin's to spend the evening, very social time.
23 Doing a little of all sorts. PM went out shopping, made two calls, came home very tired indeed.
24 A large baking and company to dinner. Evening attended the Nonresistant Convention, an address by Adin Ballue, very good indeed.
25 Attended through the day and evening very much interested in the discussions. They had for speakers William L. Garrison, Henry C. Wright, Steven S. Foster and wife, Mr. Higginson, and some others.
26 Very dull this morning. A call from Simeon. PM one from Miss Kennedy.
27 Ironing and boiling dinner. PM Lucy Bacon came to make a visit. Evening all went to the Soiree at the Hall. Little Ida May the white slave was there from Boston. Went and had two teeth filled.
28 Baking all the forenoon. PM went out to make calls, a call from Mrs. Cutting. Eve at home.
29 Went with Lucy to spend the day with Mrs. Phettiplace. Evening at home.
30 Company to spend the day. Mrs. Moesly here to tea. Evening all went to lecture. Sick all day and not very happy.
31 Saturday has come again with all its cares and toil. PM went out shopping with Lucy. At 4 o'clock she left for home. Evening attended Solomon Northrop's lecture. Thus endeth another day of my short life.
April the 1 1855
1 Sick headache all day, did not go out at all, very gloomy. The words of the poet came to my mind, AO for a something more than this to fill the void within my breast.@
2 Went to the funeral of Mrs. Wheeler, she strangled herself at the Hospital. PM sewing. Eve Francis reading Ruth Hall.
3 Sewing and writing some, eve reading.
4 Attended the funeral of Mr. Perry, Prof. of Music. After made some calls.
5 Fast day. Horace and Ann here to dinner. PM writing to Mrs. Southwick. Evening Francis reading Ida May.
6 Joanna washing and I doing a little of all sorts. PM attended an auction at William Tabor's, evening reading.
7 Baking and ironing. PM went out, bought lace 4 2 cents, came home very tired. Eve Francis reading.
8 Attended meeting at the Hall morning and evening. Called on Mr. and Mrs. Hathaway, very pleasant.
9 Washing day again. PM sewing. Evening went to the closing lecture before the AntiSlavery society delivered by Senator Sumner, the very best of the season.
10 Preparing for company. PM Mrs. Goulding and daughters, Mrs. Starr spent afternoon and evening. Their husbands here to tea.
11 Sick all the forenoon. PM the 11th day better. Finishing of some work.
12 Busy all the morning. PM went to sewing circle. Evening Francis reading.
13 Repairing a dress. PM went with Francis shopping, very tired.
14 Baking day again. PM sewing.
15 Attended meeting morning and evening, subject, self culture.
16 Joanna washing. 8 o'clock went to Doct. Harris's, spent the forenoon. PM went again from there to Mr. Stow's, bought a dress, paid 7 dollars and 65 cents.
17 Went again to Doct. Harris's. Took up one carpet. PM went over to Dorcas's, stayed to tea.
18 A man came to paint. PM another to whiten. I went to Mrs. Thayer's to have a dress fitted. Came home, ripped a carpet to pieces, and took up two other carpets. 19 Two rooms papered. PM a call from Miss Farnum and niece. All up in arms.
20 Washing curtains and carpets. PM cleaning all the afternoon. Evening Francis putdown the sitting room carpet. Very tired indeed. Raining all day.
21 Baking and boiling all the forenoon. PM went on the street, bought a dress, 1 dollar and 12 2 cents, oil silk 25. Evening called on Mrs. Thayer to see about a dress.
22 At home all day headache. Eve rather better. Went to meeting, enjoyed it very much.
23 Washing and cleaning. A call from Lavinia. PM sewing some on a dress. A call from Mrs. Barber.
24 Went to try on my dress. PM doing a little of all sorts. Evening attended a social gathering at Doct. Harris's on Main Street.
25 A lovely morning as ever dawned. PM went out on business. Evening quite a large fire on Washington Square.
26 Francis left at half past 6 for Athol. I went to see about my dress. Came home at 12, a call from Mrs. Ware. PM went to the sewing circle. Took dinner with Mrs. M., tea with Mrs. Ware. A very cold rain storm.
27 Joanna cleaning windows. PM we took [cleaned] the woodhouse. Husband came at 3, very glad to see him.
28 Baking all the morning. PM cleaning. Mrs. Holman, Mrs. Tabor called in the midst of it. Eve very tired indeed. Mrs. Reed here.
29 Attended meeting morning and evening. Very much interested. Text, who art thou O great mountain, before Zerubbable thou shalt become a plain. A letter from Mrs. Southwick.
30 Brings washing with all the rest. PM called on Nancy Rowly, found her very sick with fever.
May the 1 1855
1 Sick headache all the forenoon. PM rather better. Evening went to see the Tableaus. The Boys had a very fine time out maying, gone until 4 o'clock.
2 Paid Joanna 10 dollars this morning. My head feels very bad. PM a call from Mrs. Starr. Joanna out until 7 o'clock.
3 Very busy all day making up lost time. Evening went to Brinley [Hall] and back again.
4 Preparing and baking mince pies. A call from Ann. Four o'clock went to see about my bonnet. Called on Nancy, found her some better. Eve went with Francis to hear Mrs. Webb read, very much interested.
5 Lavinia here dress making. A lady here to tea.
6 Attended meeting morning and eve. PM a call from Sarah Wall. Husband and self called on Nancy Rowly, found her better. The 6 day of May will be remembered.
7 Washing day with all its cares is here again. PM went with the Boys to Mr. Wares for pants. Eve at home, boys to a party.
8 Fixing a bonnet. Joanna ironing. PM writing while the wind is blowing and rain is falling, and three boys singing disputing and whittling all going on together. Eve doing nothing.
9 Mending some. Putting the house in order and finishing my letter. Carried it to the shop at 4 o'clock to be directed. After that called on Miss Farnum, not at home.
10 Sewing. PM went out shopping. Bought a pair of shoes, paid 1 dollar. Met with three cousins. Evening went to hear Mrs. Webb read.
11 Attended Friends meeting at 9 o'clock. PM Caroline Farnum here to tea.
12 Baking some, sick all the forenoon. PM after tea called on Nancy Rowly, found her much better.
13 At home all day and alone most of the time. PM commenced writing to Sibil. Evening went to meeting, enjoyed it very much. Text, the 39 psalm, first verse, AI said I will take heed to my ways that I offend not with my mouth.@
14 Finished my letter. Doing some housework. PM took the Omnibus for Grove St, called to Mrs. Worcester's on my way back, not at home. Returned at half past 5. Eve sewing.
15 Baking mince pies and bread. PM went out to see about my bonnet. Came home at 4. Soon After James Bacon came, stayed over night.
16 Sewing. James left at 11:15 for Waterford. PM a call from Mrs. Pourse. Joanna flying round like an elephant from morning til night. A call from Mrs. Strong and Mrs. Manson.
17 Finishing a dress. Warren called. PM went after my bonnet. Did not like it at all. Saw Mrs. Goulding. Went home with her, took tea, came home very gloomy.
18 Quite unwell all day. Sewing some. PM went out, bought gloves and hose, 1.50.
19 Commenced baking. Lavinia came to work. A call from Edward Marsh, Mrs. Goulding, and Mrs. Hall. PM paid 2 dollars 30 cents for bonnet, 75 [cents] to L., 14 [cents] for cloth. Eve a letter from Lora. 20 At home all day. Evening felt rather better, went to meeting.
21 A call from Mrs. Farnum. Matilda came in the 9 o'clock train to make a visit. Eve we went to the City Hall to see Miss Delia Webster. Paid 25 [cents], and [at] 8 came home. Could not sleep for the pain in my back til 2 o'clock.
22 Ann came for Matilda. Sewing some. PM a call from Mrs. Foster, Mrs. Reed, and Miss McLane. Evening attended the Floral Concert. It was a beautiful sight to behold.
23 Headache. A caller with an invitation to dinner. Did not go. PM called with Mrs. Reed on Delia Webster. Eve at home.
24 Sewing all the forenoon. PM went to the AntiSlavery sewing circle, quite a gathering.
25 Finishing some work. PM at 4 o'clock attended the funeral of Katy Blake. Eve very gloomy. Received a paper called The Practical Christian.
26 Baking all the morning. Expect company. PM called on Mrs. Worcester, came home on the bus.
27 Attended meeting, from there to E. Daniels', Oliver and wife came home with us. Eve to the hall again.
28 Very dull this morning. PM went with Matilda to Mary Larned's. They left in the 4 o'clock train for home. A call from Mrs. Aldridge of Clappville. Here to tea, evening reading.
29 Sewing all day. Eve went with Francis to Mr. Starr's, very pleasant call.
30 Ironing and boiling dinner. PM went out, bought a shawl, paid 4 dollars for it. Mrs. Ware came with me to tea. Eve went part of the way home with her.
31 Baking. PM spent afternoon and evening with Mrs. Ware. Commenced reading fashion and famine, very much interested.
June the 1
1 Not well this morning. Sewing some. Reading and cooking some. Variety is the spice of life.
2 Sick headache all day. PM a call from Mrs. Reed.
3 At home all day. Evening rather better. Attended meeting, enjoyed it very much.
4 Washing day. PM trying to write a little succeeded at last. PM Agness here to tea, spent the evening.
5 At home all day, evening called on Mrs. Goulding and Mrs. Thayer, rather out of sorts. 6 Francis carried me to the funeral of Mr. Clemence's child. After went to see Mr. Bean's house. Came home sick with headache.
7 Baking this morning. PM sewing. Eve reading Summer Among the Lakes.
8 Picking up and sewing. PM Mrs. Worcester here to tea, went home with her. Sibil trimmed my bonnet. Francis came after me, a very pleasant walk home.
9 Baking this morning. A call from Ann on her way to Newport. PM went out shopping, bought four combs, paid 50 cents, 1 doz pearl buttons 10 cents, oil silk 12 2 cents. Evening sewed.
10 Attended meeting, a new minister from Bolton. PM went to the Old South Church, heard Mr. James. Subject, the family, the school, and the church.
11 Joanna washing, I am sewing. Evening we called on Mrs. Cutting, a very social time indeed.
12 Ironing and baking. PM cleaned the attic. Eve went with Francis to Penemans, bought a pair of shoes, paid 75 cents. Home a call from Horace and Ann on their way.
13 Sewing. PM took the children, went out to New Worcester. Called on Mrs. Darling. Stayed to tea, very pleasant time. Came home at 7, found Mrs. Reed and Mrs. Starr here. Mr. S. came after her. A call from Mrs. Dudley. Bought handkerchief, $1.00.
14 Head rather dull this morning. Joanna washing, I doing a little of all sorts. A call from Mrs. Reed.
15 Took the cars at 7 with Francis for Boston, bought some things, came home very tired. A lady called.
16 Baking day again. PM Charles Burns came for a short visit, a call from Mrs. Crane, a letter from E. Jones, and one from mother.
17 Attended meeting morning and evening. Subject, natural religion. I enjoyed it very much. Francis quite unwell, did not go out at all.
18 Washing day again. PM a call from Mrs. Foster. Rather gloomy evening at home.
19 The articles we purchased in Boston arrived this morning. Sister Bacon came in the first train to make a short visit. PM went out shopping with her. Mrs. Deets here to tea. Eve a call from Mrs. Worcester. [scrunched in out of sequence is: a lady came, Mary Du(not finished)]
20 Sister sick with headache. A call from Mrs. Goulding. PM Mrs. G. again, Miss McLain, Miss Farnum, Mrs. Larned, Nancy Rowly, Warner, wife and daughters, Mrs. Deets, Joanna [had]two callers. Sibil very sick all day.
21 Rather better this morning. Mary gone to the water cure. PM all took the omnibus for shopping. Warner and family left about 5 for home. A Call from Mrs. Hall and daughter from Lowell. Eve from Mrs. Reed. Very tired indeed.
22 Went out with sister Bacon to finish trading. She left in the 11 [o'clock] train for Grafton. A call from Mrs. Henry. PM Nancy Rowly came, stayed all night. A very fine shower in the evening.
23 Baking all the forenoon. Nancy left this morning, let her have 3 dollars. PM putting the house in order. Also sewing on the carpet. Eve took a walk with Francis, called on Mrs. Goulding.
24 Attended meeting in the morning. At home the remainder of the day.
25 Up at 5, helped wash until 8, then went to work on the carpet. Finished at 6 o'clock in the evening, very tired indeed.
26 Cleaned house until noon. PM Francis put the carpet down, Joanna helping.
27 Ironing and baking some. A call from Mrs. Reed and niece. Eve called on Mrs. Starr. Came home found Simeon here.
28 Very dull indeed. Brother left about 9 for home. PM took the omnibus, went to Mrs. Worcester's, came home at 7.
29 Doing a large washing of colored clothes, some white, very warm indeed. PM took a nap on the sofa. After tea took a walk with Francis. Called to Brown[?], bought a brush, 1 dollar and 50 cents.
30 Baking and ironing and the warmest day we have had. PM sick all the afternoon. Eve two callers. Received a letter from Lora Southwick.
July 1, 1855
1 At home all day, did not know what to do with myself it was so warm. I could not read or write, tried first one room then the other, but all to no purpose. Between 7 and 8 we went out to walk. Oh how cheering the green fields did look to me after being shut up for two days in a hot house for it is nothing else.
2 Washing day. Took one carpet, cleaned the room, put down a straw one. PM sewing some, accomplished a good day's work.
3 Sick all day, took cold.
4 Headache all night, and today went to Quinsigammond. Did not stay long. Came home [and] went to bed. Thus passed my fourth of July.
5 PM rather better. Took the omnibus, went up street, bought cloth for boys. Paid 1 dollar 87 2 cents, 25 to Joanna. Mrs. Worcester came home with me. Mrs. Starr, Mrs. Mosley called. I was out to Mrs. Goulding's. They came there. We went part of the way home with them.
6 Sewing all day. PM Mrs. Barber here to tea.
7 Baking in the morning. PM sewing. Rainy all day.
8 Went to the hall. PM to Friends meeting. Eve took a walk with Francis and the Boys. Called to Mr. Moesly's.
9 Washing some and sewing. PM went with the boys to the Indian Circus.
10 Ironing and baking. PM went up to Mr. Wares to see about clothes. After tea to the shop.
11 Rainy all the morning. A call from Mr. and Mrs. Harris on their way to Providence. PM all bright again. Went with Mrs. Goulding to Mr. Starrs to tea. Francis came after us, very pleasant time.
12 Sewing for boys, PM for self. A call from Horace and Ann. Evening all went to a party to Anthony Chase's, a very large company, refreshments at 10 o'clock, came home about 11.
13 Another tune this morning. Headache all day, so much for indulgence. Evening took a walk with Francis.
14 Baking. PM went out on the street, bought 4 yards of cloth 32 cents. Paid Joanna 4 [unintelligible]. Evening Horace came after us, all went to Paxton.
15 About 10 we went on to Bumskit [sic] hill, there had a fine view of the country for many miles around. It was beautiful. Returned to W. at night very tired.
16 Lavinia came to work, very warm. Sewing all day.
17 Excessively warm today. Lavinia left after dinner. A call from Mrs. Reed. Evening called on Mrs. Larned, came home very tired.
18 Finishing a dress. After tea went out with Francis to walk.
19 Mrs. Thayer here to breakfast. Two other callers. At work on pants. After tea went down to Mrs. Deets to carry something for her supper. Eve heard some very good singing.
20 Sewing all day, very tired indeed. Evening called on Mrs. Reed.
21 Baking. Miss Farnum spent the day. PM sewing.
22 Attended meeting at the hall, after went to E. Daniels.
23 Sewing for boys. PM went to Mrs. Curby's, came home in the rain. Two callers. 24 Sewing all day. So tired at night could not sleep.
25 Boys left this morning in the 7 o'clock train for Burrillville [Rhode Island] to make a visit. Father in Heaven watch over them and keep them from the evils of life, is the earnest prayer of an unworthy mother. Guide me oh Father that I may guide them. Evening attended a social gathering at Mr. Higginson's house.
26 Baking in the morning. PM went with 19 others out to Mr. Foster's in Tatnuck. We had a very fine time indeed, notwithstanding the rain poured in torrents both ways and spoiling my dress thrown in.
27 Making a cot bed. PM commenced my cape. Eve called on Mrs. Drew.
28 Baking and boiling beans, peas, beets, and so on. About 4 went over to Mrs. Worcester's, stayed to tea.
29 Attended meeting at the Hall in the morning, at home the remainder of the day.
30 Washing and sewing, a letter from Lora and one from Sibil saying she would meet me in Providence on Wednesday morning. Answered Lora's letter, very tired.
31 Preparing to go, not well at all today.
September the 1 1855
1 A general baking and boiling day. Lucy Bacon came to go to camp meeting. PM went out with her.
2 Attended meeting at the City Hall in the morning. PM to the Methodist. Evening to hear Mr. Spear of Boston.
3 Joanna washing. I am doing housework. Hannah Fowler and Sarah Wheeler called. After dinner went to see the corner stone of the Mechanics Hall laid but did not succeed. Mrs. Goulding came home [with] us. 4 o'clock went to the Depot with Lucy. Paid 6 dollars and 50 cents for a Girandole.
4 Ironing and baking cake, very dull all day. Eve took a walk to the shop.
5 Doing a little of all sorts. PM went out with Francis to look at stoves. Eve Mr. and Mrs. Starr here.
6 PM attended the sewing circle. Evening went to Brinley Hall. Bought a pair of shoes, paid 1 dollar 12 2 cents.
7 Dressing a chair. Hannah Fowler here to dinner. Sarah Wheeler came after tea. 8 Baking squash pies. Lucy Bacon returned from camp meeting. PM took the 4 o'clock train for home. After tea went with Francis over to Ezekiel's.
9 Attended meeting at Mr. Hales. Francis gone to Paxton. Mrs. Worcester and daughter here to dinner. Headache all day.
10 Sick this morning. PM a call from Miss Farnum. Evening one from Dorcas and Johny.
11 Ironing and mending. PM went out shopping, bought cloth, paid 2 dollars.
12 Sick all day.
13 Head still aching. PM rather better. Went to the AntiSlavery circle, came home sick, paid Joanne 2 dollars and 12 2 cents. A call from Mrs. Reed.
14 Better this morning, cutting out work. Edmund Bacon here. PM took the omnibus, went to Mrs. Worcester's.
15 Baking day. PM went with Francis to get boys clothes. Bought a spencer for Albert, paid 3 dollars and 75 cents.
16 Attended meeting at the Hall, enjoyed it very much indeed. After tea took a walk with my family. Called on Mrs. Ware.
17 Washing day again. PM reading. 5 o'clock called on Mrs. Goulding, from there on to the street.
18 Doing a little of all sorts all day. Making tomato preserve.
19 Took the cars for Boston. Attended the Woman's rights convention. First session was addressed by Mr. Higginson of Worcester and Mrs. Dell of Canidy. PM quite a number spoke. Evening Lucy Stone, Blackwell, and Wendall Phillips. Very interesting indeed.
20 Morning Antoinette Brown. PM did not understand the names. Evening Ralph Waldo Emerson, and a poem by Mrs. Oaks Smith of New York.
21 Came home in the half past one train, arrived safe to my family.
22 Baking day has come again. PM went out to the library. So tired I did not know what to do with myself.
23 Attended meeting at the hall, at home the remainder of the day. Enjoyed it very much.
24 Sick with a cold. Father guide and direct me for I am weak, but Thou art strong. Oh help me all my journey through.
25 Rather better this morning, preparing to bake mince pies. At home all day. Very busy indeed. 26 Baking and boiling dinner. Evening went to the Bazaar, did not enjoy it at all.
27 Sick all the morning. PM feel rather better. Paid Joanna 3 dollars. Evening went to the baby show, quite interested.
28 Dorcas here to breakfast. Went out with Francis to get boys' clothes. PM Horace and Ann here to tea. Dorcas also. Went with her to the Bazaar.
29 Very busy all day. Evening went to Miss Alice's for patterns. Very tired indeed.
30 Francis took us out to Auburn to spend the day, very pleasant time.
October the 1, [18]55
1 A hard headache all the morning. Lavinia came to work.
2 Mr. Rice came for Lavinia, her sister sick. Finishing off some work.
3 She came back about ten o'clock.
4 Sewing. PM went out for sundry articles for boys.
5 Doing a little of all sorts. PM out again for trimmings. Eve Francis gone to Ratification meeting.
6 Making soap, baking, and cleaning. Eve Charly came to make a visit.
7 Attended meeting at the hall. Mrs. Worcester and daughter here to dinner. Lavinia called in the evening.
8 Charly went to E. Daniels'. Washing and putting the house in order.
9 Ironing and mending. PM Miss Farnum and Mrs. Reed called. Evening all went to the levee. Very pleasant time.
10 A day of confusion. A man came to whiten cleaning closet. Susan and Edward came in the midst of it to make a visit. Eve Mrs. Goulding and daughter here. Mr. G. came after them.
11 Went to ride. PM out shopping, then home with Mrs. Goulding to tea.
12 Baking. A call from C. Farnum and another lady. PM Mrs. Goulding and Mrs. Worcester here to tea. Mr. G. came after her.
13 Edward came. Susan went home with him. PM called on Mrs. Starr, stayed to tea. Eve at home.
14 Attended meeting in the morning. PM a call from Dorcas. Mr. Wasson preached for the first time.
15 Washington & scalding brine. Charly here to dinner on his way home. Unwell today. PM a call form Mrs. Reed. Evening all picking barberrys.
16 Ironing and baking. PM went out shopping, bought a cr--b cloth for curtains, three pairs of hose, paid 14 dollars 74 cents. Eve Mrs. Barber called, called on Miss Webster.
17 Headache all the morning. Joanna cleaning house. A call from Miss McLain. PM Warner and wife, their minister, and Miss Stedson came. The two ladies spent the night with us. After tea called on Mrs. Trask, then to the Convention.
18 Miss S. left this morning, Warner and wife after dinner. Mr. and Mrs. Comstock and children called. Very busy preparing to make mince pies, a large washing. Thus endeth another day of toil.
19 Baking bread and pies. PM went out shopping, bought four cloths, paid 7 dollars and 62 2 cents, two pairs of hose, one dollar, yarn 25 cents. Mrs. Starr & Mrs. Moesly called during my absence. Evening at home, very gloomy. Father guide me and at last receive me to Thyself.
20 Ironing and baking, cleaning and so on through the chapter [sic]. PM went for my bonnet, paid .50. Mother came in the 6 2 train to make a visit.
21 Attended meeting at the hall, a very interesting discourse indeed. PM Dorcas came for mother. At half past three attended the funeral of Charles Ware. Evening to the hall again.
22 Putting the house in order. A call from Mrs. Dana, three from Miss Mc[incomplete]. Mrs Barber, and Miss Delia Webster here to tea.
23 Sewing. PM went out to get curtain fixtures, paid one dollar & 16 cents, one pair of socks 58 cents, called on Mrs. Goulding on my way home.
24 Very rainy all day. Finished off some work. PM Francis at home hanging curtains, both very busy.
25 Sweeping and dusting. After that baking. Mrs. Wheeler and Mrs. Aldridge came. PM went to Dorcas' with her. Mother came home with me.
26 Mr. Wheeler and family, Horace and Ann here, took a ten o'clock breakfast, three to dinner. Mother went to Dorcas' to say all night. Very tired indeed.
27 Preparing for more company. Dressed and roasted two turkeys, baked bread, cake, mince and apple pies, steak, and vegetables. Sweeping and dusting, ironing and so on. Mrs. Wheeler came in the morning. PM William Thompson and family, six in number, came on their way to the west. Mother, Dorcas, and James came about 3 o'clock.
28 All attended Friends meeting in the morning. Uncle Williams and wife went to Dorcas', stayed overnight. Francis came after me, after the afternoon meeting, there to tea. Mother and Mrs. W. came home with us.
29 Mother and Mrs. W. left in the 7 [o'clock] train. Sick headache, with washing, baking, and boiling. Two here to dinner. PM all came back, went out with aunt Louisa. Passed the evening very pleasantly.
30 All left this morning in the 10 o'clock express train for Muscatine [sic]. We bid them farewell, perhaps for even in this world, but trust we may meet where farewell will be heard no more. A call from Mrs. Reed, evening paring quinces.
31 Making quince and apple preserve, baking some, ironing, and so on. PM a call from Mrs. Fales and Mrs. Barber.
Nov the 1, 1855
1 Doing a large ironing. Went to Mrs. Ware's on business, called on Mrs. Starr on my way home. Making quince jelly. PM Albert Kelly, wife and child came, very tired.
2 Washing again and making marmalade. PM went out, bought a pair of sandals, paid 75 cents. Eve at home.
3 The cares of today are too numerous to mention. Worked until half past 5. At night so tired I could not sleep.
4 Attended meeting morning and evening. Text, God made of one blood all the nations of the earth, very good indeed.
5 Repairing coat and pants for F. Busy most of the day.
6 Mending most of the day. PM went to Lorings to see about a boiler.
7 Washed a quilt, baked cade and bread. PM went to Mr. Ware's to see about boys' coats. Very tired indeed. Dorcas here to breakfast.
8 Helping wash. A call from Lavinia. PM making a pair of pants for William Herbert. Evening same thing. Also eve a call from E. and D., a letter from Lora.
9 Baking bread and pies. PM Mrs. Cutting here to tea. Evening went with her to the first AntiSlavery lecture of the season given by John P. Hale of New York. Very good indeed.
10 Baking day again. PM sewing some. A call from Mrs. Curby. After she left went to the library, on my way home called on Mrs. Goulding.
11 Attended meeting morning and evening, enjoyed it much. 12 Writing to Lora. PM sewing. Eve the same, reading a little before going to bed.
13 Baking bread, writing some. PM went out, bought hose yarn and other things, paid one dollar and 59 cents, 15 for Joanna. Evening Mr. and Mrs. Starr came, a very social time.
14 Baking mince pies and boiling dinner. PM sewing, eve reading.
15 Headache all the morning. PM cleaning house. A call from Mrs. Ware with an invitation to spend the evening with them. Accordingly went. Mr. Starr and wife, Mr. Drew and wife, Mrs. Moesly, and Mrs. Parker the medium [sic] were present.
16 Washing some and cleaning. PM went out, bought a piece of oil cloth, paid one dollar 25 cents. Evening mrs. Wing and Hyrena Thompson came, stayed all night.
17 Oh, what a confused day. Company, baking, ironing, and a pair of pants to finish off. PM a call from Mrs. Taylor. Eve sewing and reading.
18 Attended meeting in the morning, at home the remainder of the day. Evening writing to Sibil.
19 Helping wash. PM finishing my letter. Two callers. Evening Francis copying the journal part of it for me.
20 Mending pants. PM attended the funeral of Oliver Harrington. Came home sick with headache.
21 Better this morning, doing housework. PM went out, bought the boys' shawls, paid ten dollars for them. Evening sewing.
23 Doing a little of all sorts. PM called on Mrs. Trask. Evening attended a lecture delivered by Horace Mann of Ohio, very good indeed.
24 Baking day again. PM a call from Mrs. Ellis, went to the Library. Evening reading. Joanna gone until ten.
25 Attended meeting morning and evening. Subject, first Retribution, second, Ecclesiastical causes of Irreligion. Enjoyed it exceedingly.
26 Helping wash some and mending the remainder of the day with my feelings so tired I did not know what to do. It is very hard to be amiable at all times.
27 Baking mince and apple pies. A call from Mrs. Ware. PM a long and pleasant call from Mrs. Caldwell. Evening Mrs. Trask came to make a visit.
28 Baking again. PM went out with Lydia. Evening called on Mrs. Goulding.
29 Took the 7 o'clock train for Grafton with Mrs. Trask and the boys. Francis came at 12. All came home in the 6 2 train, a very pleasant time, a call from L . T. and H. 30 Mrs. Trask left this morning for Clappville. I am putting the house in order.
December the 1 [1855]
1 Baking bread and meat, cleaning the attic. PM the woodhouse, very tired.
2 At home all day. Joanna left this morning. Evening attended meeting.
3 Doing alone a very large washing. PM Joanna came for clothes. A great relief to have her gone.
4 Baking plain and fruit cake. PM ironing. Eve very tired indeed. Francis and Albert gone to lecture.
5 Baking bread. Cooked sausages and oysters for dinner, Horace and Ann here. PM a call from Mrs. Shepperd. Evening went to hear the Boon Children.
6 Boiling and baking mince and apple pies, washing some. Mrs. D. came. Eve Lewis Thompson and Hyrena came.
7 H. took the cars for Manchester. Lewis left at 11. PM went out girl hunting, called on Mrs. Caldwell and Mrs. Stapels. Eve went to the City Hall.
8 Baking and cleaning. PM Ann came, left at 4. [At] 5 went to Mrs. Ellis's to tea, came home at 9 very tired.
9 Attended meeting in the morning, at home the remainder of the day.
10 Washing. A girl came to get work. PM she came at half past 2. A long call from Mrs. Thayer.
11 Ironing and baking. Warner here to dinner. PM mending some. Eve Francis reading.
12 Doing a little of all sorts. PM Mrs. Caldwell here to tea. Evening went to lecture, a very full house, but so dull I did not enjoy it at all.
13 Ellen washing. Headache this morning. Mrs. Worcester to dinner. Evening went to lecture.
14 Baking mince pies and bread. Ellen left after dinner. A call from Mrs. Barber.
15 Boiling dinner and baking brown bread and squash pies. PM went with the boys to hear the Boon Children. Eve at home.
16 At home all day and evening, most sick.
17 Sick headache, with washing. PM rather better
18 Ironing, a call from Lewis Thompson, one from Mrs. Fay to see about a girl. PM three more. Evening went out with Francis to get a girl.
19 Most sick this morning. Bridget Bety came on trial. PM sewing some, a lady called. Evening Mrs. Perry came for us to go to the [AntiSlavery Sewing] circle, a full house.
20 Cleaning all the morning. A call from Mrs. Willmath and daughter of Providence. PM called on Mrs. Starr, from there to Mrs. Moesly's to tea. Evening all went to lecture.
21 Doing a little of all sorts. Evening out with Francis very late.
22 Baking and cleaning, very dull indeed. PM laid down. Eve reading.
23 Attended meeting in the morning. PM went to the Spiritual Circle. Evening a call from Mr. Tabour and wife, a lady with them. Both boys sick, up with Willy till after 12, up at one.
24 Albert quite sick this morning. Willy rather better. PM Bridge gone to Westborough to visit her sister.
25 Boys better. This morning baking pies. Both gone to the hall, evening all went to the Christmas tree, a very pleasant time.
26 Cleaning closet alone. PM B. came back at four o'clock. Eve went to Mr. Nickerson's.
27 Very dull today. At work on Francis' old coat. PM a call from Mrs. Seagrave. Evening Francis gone to lecture.
28 Finished the coat. PM reading some, evening sewing.
29 Baking day again, boiling dinner. Mr. and Mrs. Richardson came to make a visit.
30 At home all day. Nancy and husband left after breakfast. Willy sick all day.
31 Washing. Willy some better. PM a caller. Mending. Eve sewing. This day ends another year.