DIARIES

Lewis Roe Overton diary

1820-1827

Lewis Roe Overton was born December 10, 1800 to Elisha and Ruth (Roe) Overton. He was raised at the original family homestead on what is know known as David Overton Road in Coram. This diary is from his earlier days as an itinerant teacher in the vicinity of Carteret County in North Carolina. He later taught in upper New York State and through the Mohawk Valley. He returned to Long Island in 1830 and began teaching in Bellport, New York. He then purchased a home on Mill Road in Coram.

He was postmaster of Coram for several years. Brookhaven Town offices of Superintendent of Schools 1849 to 1856, Town Clerk 1856 to 1860. Lewis Overton died on January 4, 1872.

This diary was edited by Longwood Middle School students Kristin Difrancia and Christina White. The unedited version can be found at the Longwood Public Library.

December 1820

Monday, 26.

Much excitement has lately been caused from a vague report that the slaves of this vicinity have plotted a conspiracy against the whites and that last evening (Christmas) was to have been its consumation. Many have in consequence indulged the most fearful apprehension for their safety and the strict watch of the patrol and City guard was kept during the whole of last night. No symptoms of insurrection or disturbance occurred. However, it is probable the suspicions were groundless and the report false.

Monday, 2 January, 1821

This day opened a day and evening school in Middle-Street. Afternoon attended the annual slave market held at the courthouse. The scene is revolting to every better feeling of humanity and patriotic freedom. The unfortunate beings are conducted like herds of cattle to a fare and the mingled passicns of hope and fear are depicted on each countenance. Some hoping in a near-compassionate and human master to find a deliverance from unfeeling tyranny and others dreading the chance of falling intothe hands of rigid severity. "Oh, Liberty how is thy alter profanited by those who call themselves thy sons?"…Latin quote. A day, an hour of virtuous liberty is worth a whole eternity of bondage- how pitiable must be the condition of those unhappy slaves who can never hope to enjoy one of natures noblest gifts. The week between Christmas and the New Year is here generally allotted them as a relief from their toll. Some are even denied this short holiday.

February 15,

Have just returned from an excursion thru Hyde and Beaufort County. Find the soil of the latter very fertile and productive forests. The unpleasant state of the roads which are very little improved and at this season of the year literally inundated with water.

February18,

Arrived yesterday at I Borden's seat on this river, where I have engaged to open a family school

June 10,

Very sultry in a ramble through the woods have found the tick very troublesome. Saw the "Seed tick" which is indeed so numerous in the woods that hundreds may often be counted on a single twig or blade of grass.

July 1,

I have found considerable acquaintance with the country people of this vicinity whom I found to differ in society and manners very considerably from the town. The latter are tolerably educated and in many instances refined while the former with a few exceptions are illiterate, uninformed, and from their habits of intercourse with the Negroes, barbarously corrupt in their language and pronunciation. As a general character it may however, be relent in their habits, possess a vigor of mindfind no way inferior to those of the Northern States, with a warmth of temper and among the fair sex a softness on manners exceeding them.

Beaufort, September 20, 1821

Came last week into the village where I have engaged to open a school and have taken lodgings at Mr. S. B. Boolty.

December 10.

`This day completed my twenty first year. May the being who governs the universe of men and who conducted me safely this period of life direct my steps toward the paths of usefulness and virtue.

Smiths Creek Mine. January 5 1822

Have opened schooling the neighborhood and taken lodgings at H.Carraway"s.

Portsmouth, Aril, 8 1822

Closed my school last week at Smith's Creek, when we made fair excursion to this island which is situated on the seaboard and so low that is often inundated with the sea at high tides, covered chiefly with Myrtle, Yanpon and other evergreens.

July 30,1822

Past week attended a Methodist camp meeting at Shepherds Point situated at the Junction of Newport River and Bogue Sound. The auditors were estimated to amount to something less than one thousand (including blacks (Negroes) that held their meetings contiguous to the whites.)

August 1822

This day came on board the Schr Carpenters Son Capt. Williams for New York. This afternoon weighed and ran our anchor have discharged the pilot and are proceeding to sea with a gentle breeze.

Staten Island, August 1822

Have just anchored in Quarantine gound where, having a sick man aboard, we are assured by the health officer that we must remain some days. There are at present about 40 sail of vessels under quarantine of all classes among which I notice one American and one English. Man of War the Brig. Enterprise has also lately anchored from a cruise in the West India Seas. The yellow fever is committing great ravages among the crew and many of them have fallen sacrifices to its virulence.

Sept. 1822

I am assured that the most memorable storm of the 3rd of September last, occasioned almost incalculable damages in this vicinity and that out of nearly sixty sails which were lying at anchor in this bay but two were able to weather it. It is a remarkable fact that these gales or tornadoes commence about the Gulf of Florida and pass with great velocity along the coast of the United States in narrow veins. Dr. Franklin (Benjamin) first made this observation and ascertained that in one instance that it was about twenty four hours in passing from Florida to Maine

August 20, 1822

Have just been with the health officer who has given me permission to leave quarrantine provided I do not pass through New York. Have accordingly taken passage on board a Schr of L.I. Bay... Last evening arrived at Islip and this afternoon greeted home after an absence of about 21 months.

April 4, 1823

Last Sunday and Monday a snow fell here to the depth of two feet... Last Tuesday attended our annual town meeting at Coram. Rode out in a sleigh which was nearly the only vehicle for traveling used on that day.

June 1823

Last week opened a school in the village of Babylon.

New York, November 1823

Last week left Long Island in company with L. H. for this city whence we propose proceeding to the Erie Canal. This river is confined by high and precipitate banks, which in some places bend directly over the passengers head as he passes along the canal, at a height of several hundred feet above him, causing him involuntarily to shudder at the apparent danger of his situation.

Little Falls Saturday 1823

Last evening arrived in this borough where we had the mortification to find our novel and pleasing mode of traveling at an end. The ice in the canal having become so strong as to prevent the boats from proceeding.

December 1823

Engaged in a school in a district a mile west of Little Falls. Among the Dutch whose manners and habits are in some instances familiar from boarding in a number of families. I had a good opportunity of becoming acquainted with them. Found them greatly deficient in a point of cleanliness and mostly destitute of taste.

March 1824

Closed my school in Dutch town and took carriage for Wolcott... Notes of our coachmans' bugle which floated on the ear and announced the arrival of the Stage Coach. Buffalo is pleasantly situated on the mouth of Lake Erie though at the distance of near half a mile from it's margin. It is built chiefly on one street about a mile long. The south end of which stretches to Buffalo Creek which furnishes a very commodious harbor, for it's shipping. The Erie Canal will terminate here and receive a principal feeder from the mouth of this creek.

Nagara Falls, April 10,1824

This morning took stage to Niagara Falls, a distance of about 22 miles. A turnpike is contemplated here which is highly necessary as the road is too rough.

Oak Orchard, County, April 21, 1824

After satisfying my curiosity at the falls, I took stage for Lewiston whence I proceeded to this place, Some distance below the falls we passed a small basin on the American side. Which has been demonstrated the "Devil Hole" derives its celebrity and perhaps its name from the circumstance of a battle fought in its vicinity during the French War, between the French and Indians and the English colonists in which five hundred of the latter were forced over the precipice and precipitated about two hundred feet down the perpendicular bank where they were dashed in pieces!!

April 24, 1824

Last Monday opened a school in village in which I contemplate spending the summer. Oak Orchard is a small village on the ridge road, 38 miles east of Lewiston and 40 miles west of Rochester. It derives its name from a creek so called which runs through it. An aqueduct of exquisite masonry supported by an arch of 60 feet span, conducts the Erie Canal across the creek. The basins and villages along the canal are very numerous and in a few years hence it will probably be lined with flourishing trading villages. The Erie Canal when completed will exceed three hundred and sixty miles in extent and its' completion is contemplated by the close of 1825.

July 5, 1824

Having been attacked with the augue and fever, I shall make arrangements for returning to the Island as soon as possible.

August 5, 1824 Albany, New York

This morning arrived in the City after a pleasant passage per Canal packet and Stage. I spent but one day in Rochester which I found to be a large manufacturing and mercantile town. The Erie Canal crosses the Geneessee at this place through a stone aqueduct of good masonry and resting on ten arches of about 50 feet of span at Montezuma. The canal passes directly through it and appears to have caused much labor. The excavation was performed by means of a scoop net, and the mud excavated applied to the construction of banks which, have become solid and furnish permanent towing paths.

August 15, 1824

Arrived home last week after an absence of about eight months. General La Fayette arrived in New York per packet Cadmus. This illustrious Nobleman, dear to the heart of every patriotic American, was received at our Metropolis with acclamation of joy and gratitude and distinguished honours will await him on his tour through the states and growing Union.

October 1, 1824

The weather during the pass months have been warm and pleasant and farmers have a fine season for seeding. My father is just recovering from a course of Typhus Fever which it has pleased providence to spare him. I have engaged and opened a school in Islip which I contemplate spending the winter.

Tuesday 25. (January 1825)

The weather continues remarkably open and mild. Vessels are continually running in L. Island bay and has been nearly the whole winter.

Wednesday 25.

Spent yesterday in strolling over the Philadelphia city and viewing the Schuykill and the Fairmount water works on that river. This morning crossed over to Hamilton and walked out several miles on the Lancaster road. This celebrated turnpike is a very handsome road and is bordered with neat and highly cultivated farms.

Tuesday 30.

The thorn hedges through the lower part of Pa. and particularly in this state are extremely beautiful and an advanced State in the agricultural improvements. This morning crossed over to Wilmington which, is situated directly opposite Brandywine with which it communicates by Brandywine bridge. It is a pleasant village and the largest town in the state of Delaware.

Wednesday, 8th June

Counties in this state are subdivided into hundreds corresponding with the townships in the northern states. The building here as well as in the eastern part of Pa. are almost exclusively built of stone. A great portion of the original settelers of this vicinity were Swedes, whose descendants composed a large portion of the present population. The Quaker habits prevail here to a great degree, tho a majority who that character have only adopted the peculiar errors and foibles of that society while the more commendable features of their doctrine constitute no part of their practice.

July 5

The anniversary of Independence is not celebrated here and yesterday passed off almost without being remembered as the anniversary of our liberties birth.

November 10 (1825)

On the fourth instant celebration completion of the Erie Canal was celebrated in New York and it is said it was in a grand and imposing manner. For celebration boats entered the canal at Buffalo on the 26 and arrived in New York on the morning of the 4 inst. Having been accompanied from Albany by a number of steamboats.

Tuesday 28

This morning set sail on board the packet Sarah Ann for Philada. After passing the draw bridge at the foot of Market Street, We sailed down the Christina Creek which after receiving the far famed Brandywine, discharged itself into the Deleware River Three miles below Willmington.

Thursday 30.

This morning got on the Steamboat Thistle for N. York where we arrived at 10 or 11 A.M. This city with its 162,000 inhabitants and 100 churches is in a rapid state of improvement which each year obviously exhibits.

Saturday 1, April

Very pleasant. This morning ste sail for Brookhaven where after a very pleasant sail 8 or 9 hours we arrived. We saw between Sandy Hook and Fire Island Inlet 5 whales which were the first I ever saw. Rode to Patchogue whence I proceeded home on foot where I arived at 8 P.M after an absence of more than 10 months.

Saturday July 1

Independence a cemi centenial anaversiary has arrived and great preparations have in many places been made for its celebration-during the lapse of half of a century. Almost all of the veterans of '76 have sunk to the tombs mor lived to witness the liberty and growing prosperity which their sons enjoy. May the all wise director incline us to be grateful for his blessings and whilst we are rising in prosperity and knowledge and refinement may we retain the purity and patriotism of our ancestor and duly appreciate the liberty they purchased.

Saturday 8,

The venerable expresidents, Adams and Jefferson died on the 4th inst the circumstances of their death occurring on the National Jubilee and within about four hours of each other exhibits an unusual and unprecedented coincidense events their ages were respectively 92 and 83 they have left but few of their contemporaries who with themselves gain the liberty we enjoy. Peace to the names of the patriot and the Sage-Chas Carroll is the survivor of the illustrious Senate who signed the Declaration of Independence he yet lingers on the borders of time and is the last visible luminary in that consterlation whose radiant beams once enlightened our political sky.

Monday 9th October

Last Saturday attended a review of Col. Woodhull's regiment mustered at Coram after having satisfied myself with half an hours examination of the motlely assemblage which thronged the premises of "Mine host I was prevailed on to take a stand in the bar".

Monday 6th

Yesterday walked in company with missrs Mulford and Heavens to Poosspaddacka Small Indian Hamlet near Mastic tho once a considerable Indian Village it has depreciated to half a dozen families some of whom are Negroes and Shades. One wigwam only remains. The other tenements being framed These inmates are rapidly diminishing and a few years will perhaps render extinct the last relic of a probably once powerful tribe. Their appearance is that of extreme proverty tho the natural advantages and percular privliges which their locality ejoys would seemed to want the idea that they cannot want the means of substance.

Wednesday 8th

This evening our state election for Governor, lieutnant governor and members of the assembly ect. closed- the polls were opened at Moriches this morning. The electors it is said are pretty nearly divide in their votes for the candidates for governor notwithstanding the fair claims to which the sources of the present encumbant of that office have entitled him.

Monday 20th Saturday

Having a holiday I rode on an unbroken colt "Wild as the winds of the north" after several spills of jumping , plumging, rearing and other maneuvers equally ungallant an impolite, his restless spirit yielded to the switch and he caried me safe home although several bruises on my fingers bare testimony to the violence they had suffered!!

Friday 24th

Last evening the fist session of a debating society recently organized and danominated the debating club of Moriches was held at E. Raynor's. Mr.Clinton is elected governor of New York by a majority.

Thursday 7th

This day has been set apart by our governor as the day of Thanksgiving. It is however little observed in this past evening called in at E. Raynor's where a set had collected for dancing.

Tuesday 10th

This is my birthday and complete my 26th year.

Sunday 15th (1827)

Last evening rode to Capt. J. Smith's where I spent the night very agreeably. Returned this morning to Capt. Haven's where I had spent the day in reading, etc. Evening called on Oakley's in attendance upon some young ladies.

Wednesday 17th

This morning opened the second school house in Moriches the public journals announced that a war has broken out between Spain and Portugal and that England, agreeable to treaty of alliance, is preparing to defend the latter.

Friday 9th Feby

Last evening sat up with the corpse of Mrs. Biggs in company with several young persons, the deceased was the wife of Isaac Biggs of this place is said to have exchanged apparent satisfaction spending the ? long night in the presence of the remains of a fellow creature having just made the transation, is well calculated to impress the minds with lessons of mortality and to show the fragile and perishable nature of the tenement on which we make such momentous calculations and which serves only as an envelope to include the soul.

Monday 12th

Rode to the fireplace in company with Messers Worth Havens and Post heard the Rev. E.King lecture in Fireplace meeting house.

Wednesday 4th

Yesterday attended our annual town meeting at Coram the day was unusually fine.

Friday 27th

Yesterday rode to Drownmeadow the afternoon and evening very agreeable with Mr. Z. Hawkins and family rode to Setauket and returned home via the pond and Westfields.

Monday 30th

This morning resumed by school in Moriches.

Sunday 3rd

Have just returned from the annual meeting of the blacks at Poosapaddack, at which the Rev. Hawkins officiated a very considerable concourse of whites and blacks attended the latter probably prompted to attend from motive of curiosity several tawny natives raised their voices in the corus of praise to the God of the white man and the indian the scene was highly interesting, and imagination reverted back to the period when nights of the bow and arrow of whom these are the lineal descendants pursued, the wild game over the forest of their then undisputable dominions or with the elastic and hideous yells danced their war dances and chanted the Song of Victory and triumph over a vanquished fox.

Monday 2nd July

Last Friday afternoon set sail for Babylon. Strolled over the village till noon when we sailed for Fire Island light house. Whilst at the lighthouse ascended the tower several times and witnessed the operation of igniting- the tower is constructed of Stone and rises on a base of 35 feet diameter to the height of 75 feet to the dome when it has a diameter of 14 feet the form is octagonal it is a revolving light to distinguish it from those of Sandy Hook and Montauk. The lamps appear to be of the best construction and emit a very strong light the wick is drawn over a cylinder of an inch diameter and elevated or depressed by a cylinder.

Thursday 5th

Yesterday the anniversary of Independence was attempted to be celebrated in Moriches tho the want of means ect rendered it less interesting than it might have more than one hundred guns hoever were fired and an ovation delivered by Mr. M Fanning.

Monday 16th

The weather is fine for hay making and harvesting and our farmers are prostrating the well grown grass and spreading the " harvest to the sun."

Wednesday 1st August

This day closed my school in Moriches, L. called this afternoon for the purpose of taking me home.

Saturday 11th

This morning attended the launching of the sloop Missouri and had the pleasure of standing on the deck when she descended into the water a concourse of Several hundred assembled.

Sunday

This morning rode horsed to Fireplace having spent the night there in consequence of a heavy rain. This morning after attendedmeeting at Coram and called on A. M. Overton at Westfield.

Friday 24th

Yesterday and this afternoon attended a review of the officers attached the 32nd regiment. The weather is fine and very favorable to the occasion.

Monday 3rd

Today attended a review of Captain Rayoner's.

Tuesday 4th

Today resumed my school in Moriches after a months vacation.

Saturday

Attended a regiment review at Coram Saw J. Brown and sisters from the west with whom I spent the evening. Last evening returned to Moriches after attending services at Westfeild.

Sunday 2nd

Today heard lecture from the Rev. Mr.Langhton at Coram.

Tuesday 4th

Yesterday called up Westfield. Spent the night at Uncle J.B. Roe's at confirmation of the report of the loss of the Sloop Levity has just reached here the sloop capsized in attempting to cross the Fire Island Bar last Saturday morning. The crew consited Capt. Rode and his son at Mr. Risley and a lad by the name of Ruland. Some of the crew was, seen of the wreck most of the day but no assistance could be given, the crew belonged at Patchogue.

CYNTHIA NORTON

(wife of Dr. Samuel Norton)

From her personal diary

The following excerpt is from Cynthia Hutchinson's diary, a Middle Island resident who eventually married Dr. Samuel Norton. Her diary of 1809, reprinted in the Long Island Advance on Jan. 19, 1952, page 23, provides an intriguing sketch of daily life of Middle Island families.

FOOTNOTES TO L.I. HISTORY

"Beach Parties in 1809, Too"

by Thomas R. Bayles

In 1808, Thomas Jefferson, third president of the United States, was rounding out his second term as the nation's chief executive. Daniel D. Tompkins was serving as New York state's fifth governor, and Long Island was a sparsely settled community in a progressive state having a population of about 900,000 people.

Here are extracts from the diary of one of Long Island's residents, a Middle Island woman (Cynthia Hutchinson Norton) in the year 1808, and the years following:

May 16, 1808--3 men planting corn. It is very late. Luther Case is going to the New Country where he has property.

May 29-- I sat in a cool room and took the ague and had a fit of sickness which lasted until the 29th of August. Remitting fever and ague.

Aug. 29-- Attended singing school and rode horseback. Rev. Moses Swezey preached Sunday. Singing school was held in the afternoon. Mr. Hubbard spoken of as a school teacher.

Sept. 5--Singing school on Sunday afternoon so well attended that those who came late could hardly find seats.

Sept. 28--Mr. Joseph Gerard from new York called. he is paying his respects to Miss Charry Swezey. Loading sloop (probably with cord wood on Sound shore) frequently spoken of.

Nov. 1--Thrashed clover seed. Simeon Hulse died after three weeks sickness with lung fever.

Nov. 5--Funeral of young woman Matilda Yarrington at Coram. There seem to be funerals oftener than any other meeting.

Nov. 6--reading meeting. Few people out. Evening meetings at Coram were very largely attended and frequent and held very late.

Nov. 18--A night meeting was held at the meeting house.

Nov. 29--Paul (probably the indian preacher Paul Cuffee) preached.

Feb. 3, 109--At the schoolhouse in the evening Mr. Allen, who had been hired to preach 4 Sundays, preached.

Feb. 19--Rev. Woolworth of Bridgehampton preached and a number taken into the church. Spinning flax seemed to be the order of the day.

March 17--Papa went to Coram to Republican meeting. Mrs. Gerard expects to move down the river before long.

March 26--Mr. Woodruff read a sermon. Had a full meeting so that they had to remove into the meeting house. (Perhaps they met in the schoolhouse.)

April 7--Daniel Terry of Oysterponds (Orient) called. He has been at Albany on the Assembly two months. He went away in the morning "with the post."

April 18--In the evening Debby and I went to meeting, which was very melancholy, there were but few who did not shed tears. Mr. John Turner and his cousins Isaac and Charry, who we can't expect to ever see again as they are going to move a great way off up in the "new country."

May 21--Mr. Daggett preached in A.M. and went to Fire Place in the afternoon.

June 5--A company training was held at Christopher Swezey's.

June 14--General training. A gala day and women and all went to see it. (In July twin children of Mr. G. Brown died a week apart. the funeral of the second child is thus described.) Just as we got there Mr. Corwin came and made a short prayer and then went to the meeting house. The corpse was carried to the door by its parents, then Debby and Polly Howell carried it into the meeting house. Mr. Corwin preached. After the service Debby and I carried it to the burying ground across from the meeting house.

Aug 3.--In the morning I went to the store and got a gallon of rum. Mr. Petty and Mr. Hulse are to work here today.

Aug. 18--Mr. Brown's beach party took place. Papa went, also old Mr. Joshua Swezey and Harmony and Mr. and Mrs. Wooster. Reached home 11 o'clock at night.

Sun. Aug. 20--Meeting inthe schoolhouse in the evening very much crowded and very warm. Miss Harmony Swezey almost fainted away, it was so warm. Her brother Joshua and her cousin Sylvanus Overton carried her home in a chair.

Sept. 30--Jeffrey Randall's wife died. At the funeral there were so many in attendance that the services were held in the edge of the woods instead of in the meeting house. Mr. Robinson preached. Quilting, knitting and spinning are common occupations.

Jan. 9, 1810--Daniel and Charles Swezey called, going to meeting at Mr. Davis' where Mr. Hallock preached. Mr. Hubbard is school teacher, boarding around still.

Feb. 3-- Mr. Brown came running in and told Papa to get his horses immediately and go after his father and mother. He said their horse had run away and they were both thrown out of the wagon and hurt. He went as quick as possible and brought them back, and then went after the doctor. He came and bled grandfather and believes there are no bones broke. Uncle John went after the horse, which ran to Patchogue. He came back about places.

Men on their way from New York to the eastern part of the island frequently call and stay all night. (Evidently conducted an inn.)

April 3--Vendue of Joel Swezey attended. They are going to move to the new country.

May 30--Jonathan Edwards came and warned us all to training. Cherries were plentiful at Mr. Brown's and Joshua Swezey's place's.

July 29--Papa and Mama went to the carding machine (down the river). Stayed all night and got home the next day.

Dec. 18--Mr. Brown had his barn raised. Charity Hulse married to lewis Ritch.

Jan. 1, 1811--Dr. Norton had a singing school about this time in the Coram school house.

Aprl 23--Mr. Woodruff and family left for the new country.

June 23--Mr. King moved here June 6th. (The Rev. Ezra King, pastor of Presbyterian Church at Middle island and South Haven for over 30 yers.) Mr. King and Mr. Prime of Fresh Pond exchanged pulpits at times.

DIARY OF MINERVA HUTCHINSON

Middle Island

1838-1842

Minerva Hutchinson was the daughter of Benjamin Hutchinson and Betsey (Tuthill) Hutchinson. She was born on Feb. 18, 1798. The family homestead was across from where the Longwood Public Library is located. This diary was copied and edited by Richard M. Bayles. This abstract comes from the collection of Mr. Donald Bayles.

Sunday July 8, 1838 A great number were taken into the church, of the young both male and female. But our family remain in a state of unbelief and doubts. Yet I would believe if I knew what was truth or the right way.

William Homan was drowned in July 1838.

Cousin Samuel Hutchinson and wife visits for a day.

July, 1838. Long Spell of dry weather prevails. Cisterns are low, cattle have to be driven away to water and water has to be carted for family use.

Ironed and mended the clothes & swept & rubbed candlesticks and andirons

July 26, Father planted a few hills of potatoes. Mother picked some pole beans for the first time. At night our rolls were brought home from the machine (carding mill down the river) I began to spin them. Very good rolls. I spun 28 knots.

Aug. 19, 1838 - Sunday Mr. King did not come. I heard he was ill. Mr. Smith read a sermon in the A.M. & Ulysses Ritch in the P.M.

Monday 20th Henry & E. Cherry & Mitchell Petty went to mow on the meadow at south. I washed. We had green corn (suckertash) for dinner.

Tuesday, I ironed and spun the other part of the time.

Mrs. Martha Swezey and her sister Abigail Stevens called. Also Mrs. Sarah Swezey.

Aug. 7, Mrs. Dunns childs funeral at the meeting house.

We all got up early (Aug 14) in the morning. Father & Harry killed a young hog. I got to spinning about sunrise having had breakfast by candlelight

Aug. 16. Sunday. No preacher. Heard that Mr. King had got hurt by falling out of his wagon

Carded mixed wool for stocking yarn.

In the morning I carded again and spun in the P.M.

Aug. 18, 1838- The sun was eclipsed. I smoked a piece of glass to look at it.

Benjamin H. (Hutchinson appears to have the Post Office in 1838.

Mrs Elizabeth Jones died about Sept. 29, 1838

Store goods were brought here by way of vessel to Drowned Meadow. Daniel Petty Sr. died Feb. 9, 1839

Miss Ruth Overton and Wm. Overton were married Mar. 2, 1839

Joseph Davis & Eliza Hallock married March 14, 1839

Wednesday 24th 1839 - I commenced carding cotton bats for a red quilt for mother.

Mrs. Polly Howell died about April 28, 1839.

Mrs. Sophia Swezey died May 16th 1839, after an illness of about 15 years.

Mrs. Susan Petty died May 25, 1839

Sunday P.M.26th- Father, Henry and myself went up in our common wagon to carry the remains of Mrs. Petty to the meeting house. I rode to meeting with her corpse & went in the burying place where may shortly lie.

July 29, 1839. I picked some wool for stockings and in the P.M. father went down to the machine & got our mixed & white wool for stockings carded & brought it home, but our sheared wool was not carded although it was sent to the machine several days before.

Miss C. Bonney died about Aug. 23, 1839, at Wm. Sidney Smiths. She was buried at sunset of that day (Friday) in the M. I. Church burying ground and the funeral was conducted on the Sunday following, at the church. She was 21 years of age. Her sister and the Smith family were mourners.

Mrs. Sarah and Martha Swezey were frequent callers

Sylvanus Overton died suddenly Sept. 21, 1839, buried on the 23rd. at Coram without any sermon.

A great deal of time was spent pealing apples and peaches to dry, and neighbors came in to help for a few hours.

On the night of the 13th of January, 1840 the steamboat Lexington was burned in the sound.

On Wednesday Eve, 15th Jan. 1840 David Crowley 2nd mate of the steam boat Lexington arrived at Uncle Matthias Hutchinson's after having been 48 hours on a bale of cotton in the sound- hands and feet frozen.

Uncle Jeffrey Hutchinson called at the home.

Feb. 2. Snow storm. People went to church in sleighs. Not any neighbor came in to see us.

Feb. 4. Very cold, Brother H. P. froze the ends of his fingers getting wood out of snow.

Jonathan Still died Feb. 12, 1840

Mr. Andrews, Patrick Carroll, John Carroll and C. Davis were peddlers who called occasionally and dined or lodged.

Jeremy Randall died Mar. 20, 1840

I doubled and twisted swingle tow.

Mother made Tansy cake for supper, the first she has made this spring. (April 16, 1840

April 17, planted early peas

Joshua Swezey Sr. married to a widow from Patchogue

Maria Edwards deranged, had watchers

April 18, Nathaniel Hudson had a lawsuit with Smith Roe of Patchogue, at Benjamin Hutchinson's

April 28, Planted Corn

April 30th In the P.M. the stage came along with Mr. David Crowley and he spoke with father and Henry

Sunday May 3, a number baptized in the P.M. Benjamin Hutchinson came along after the stage had gone and rode to the baptism.

Benjamin T. Hutchinson married to Minerva Overton Sunday May 17, 1840

Same afternoon Mr. And Mrs., Overton (Isaac) and daughter called with B.T.H. and bride and had cake.

Same day stage came with G. Solomon driver.

June 4th- Aunt Polly Hutchinson called.

June 6th Samuel Bailey removed tombstones, H.P.H. helping him. (probably the old burial plot of the Brewsters)

June 25, Had peas for dinner

July 4th Cousin Oscar and cousin Matthias Hutchinson visit.

July 11. Blackberries ripe. Green beans for dinner

July 30. Cousin Sam Hutchinson and lady friend visited also Nicholas.

Peggy and Margaret Hulse frequently called.

James Dayton died Aug. 11, 1840

Mr. Backley and B. Terry peddlers also J. Bates, peddlers were numerous and they generally put up at this house.

Mrs. Jershua Hulse died at the home of Mrs. Ellison at south. Sept. 7, 1840 buried at Middle Island on the 9th.

Sept. 22, H.P. left all business to go to Patchogue to a great Whig meeting.

Sept. 23, Father, H.P & B.H. forsook all again to go to Patchogue to a Democratic meeting, did not get home till the evening.

Daniel Brown died of southern fever in Sept.

Cousin Mary and Nicholas Hutchinson call on their way to visit their sister Julia up to her father Hammonds.

Dr. Samuel Norton died Nov. 17, 1840

Jan. 17, 1841 Uncle Rufus Tuthill is 94 years of age today.

Jan. 23 A traveling man Eleazer Overton by name came in and eat dinner.

Mother was afraid of my burning too much wood to scald the geese and we had some controversy first before the water was hot to scald the geese- O that we could enjoy all our blessings with love and peace to season them instead of disputings and contention for the future.

Feb.2nd A vendue (auction) at Messrs. Dayton's

Feb. 5 To disturb our peace Mr. John Buckingham came in somewhat intoxicated and had some strong in a little jug in his jacket and took up a drink more and staid till nearly midnight. Father went along with him for fear he would not get home safe.

Enos Cherry put out one of his own eyes with an awl.

Feb.19, 1841 Elbert Hutchinson born.

Feb. 28, Sunday, our peace was not disturbed by visitors

March 31, 1841 planted peas

Monday April 12th Cold and snow began to fall increasing rapidly. It became more that a foot deep. Snowed Tuesday morning. Mail carrier drove through on horseback on Wednesday, and in the afternoon some sleighs broke the road.

May 1, father went to the funeral of Mr. Jerry King

May 20th, Austin Randall and Mary Ritch married.

May 25th Joshua Swezey's daughter Eliza Ann and a child of Mrs. Owens died of scarlet fever on May 29th.

Amaziah Davis with his musick box called.

June 14, 1841 Mrs sarah swezey hung herself with a rope

June 25, Had peas for dinner

Aug. 8, My mind was disturbed by the appearance of John Buckingham in our house with a jug of rum. Mr. Japheth Smith came to visit father with his strong drink.

Aug. 22, First watermelons of the season.

Philip Homan had a daughter Eliza.

Hiriam Overton son of Davis Overton and brother of Mrs. Samuel Edwards married the widow of Albert Davis (Clarissa) March 1840.

John Swezey is deranged, and his wife had another child May 1840. Aunt Sarah is quite low in spirits at the same time.

Mrs. Higgins was a nurse to women in childbirth

Nov. 25, 1841 Jeffrey Hutchinson (Uncle) went to Smithtown to carry samples of his homemade sewing silk and stockings to exhibit at the fair. Returned next day, in company with Abel Corwin. Left some floss silk with Minerva H. to spin

Dec. 15 Zophar petty died.

Methodist meeting house Middle Island was dedicated Dec. 22, 1841 and a series of meetings was continued in daytime and evenings until the new year.

Jan. 7, 1842 Benjamin Hutchinson worked at the business of making shoes.

Miss Sally Overton died Feb. 26, 1842

Whitehead Hulse came to visit us with his jug of rum.

B.T. had our horse to go to Drowned Meadow after his rum again.

April 1842, Mrs. Isaac Hudson, being sick was carried in a bed on a wagon to her father's house. She died about May 22.

May 1st. Justus Overton died.

Mr. Van Brunt died, Mr. Willis died Whitney Overton died August 12, 1842 Herman Buckingham died Aug. 20, or about

Alfred Ackerly & Angelina Dayton married Sept. 7, 1842

Nov. 11, 1842 A stranger came and took dinner here, who is supposed to have murdered Mr. And Mrs. Smith at Huntington the evening before- 13th inst. On Friday P.M. 18th he was carried to riverhead jail.

Amariah Davis married Nov. 30

Dec. 20th Methodists commenced holding meetings day and evenings continuing nearly five weeks. Mrs. Daniel petty, Sam Overton and daughter, Mr. E Gildersleeve, R.W. Smith and wife, Noah Overton, Japhet Smith, Albert Terrill were hopefully converted

John Gildersleeve and Sarepta Dayton married Dec. 28, 1842

Joshua Swezey Sr. died Feb. 9, 1843. Funeral conducted by Rev Ezra King on Sunday the 12th.

Monday 13th (Feb) and every day through the week & evenings Mr. Hall & Mr. King continued their meetings, although it was some days stormy & quite tedious freezing weather & snow & icy but a great many sleighs & loaded with people went days & nights too. During the week beginning Sunday Feb. 19 they continued their meetings.

A little daughter of Daniel Hulse died, funeral at the Pres. Church, April 2, 1843

Sally Swezey died April 3, 1843

Tuthill Swezey died April 13, 1843

Daniel Dayton (Sr.)died April 24, 1843

Mrs. Han Horn's first son born April 28, or 29, 1843

B.T.H. daughter born June 2nd 1843

Aug. 12, 1843 Wife of Simeon Ritch died, leaving two children.

Diary of Captain William Yarrington

1738-1811

French and Indian War

Coram

Transcribed by

Elizabeth Yarrington Russell

Clara Hoyt Russell

New Transcript by

Carol Russell Law, 1976

The following excerpts are from a diary kept by William Yarrington during the French and Indian War. The unedited copy can be found in the local history room at the Longwood Public Library.

The Coll's staff went up the water on a raft of Batoes to the fort.

Fryday Sept. ye 21st 1759

Fed cattel. Went to Crown Point today. Ye timber for the grait Hospital ye party began it today.

Sunday. Sept. ye 23rd

I went on ye quarter guard. Moses Snow of Coll Fitch's company died ye 23 instant.

Monday. Sept. ye 24th

A boat of mohaks from Sir. William Johnson came to our party this knight.

Tuesday Sept. 25th

This morning ye mohak boat Went to Crown Point to see Gen'l_____ . I hant heard what their Bisniss is. Today Connecticut, Boston and Rhod Island forces moved over to the point and the day allowed to fix tents and treats etc.

Fryday Sept. ye 28.

Nothing remar'l. Camp nues Continues. Some talk that Connecticut Forces Ware to goe the way of number four.

Saturday Sept. ye 29.

Workt gathering of timber for the fort.

Sunday Sept. ye 30th.

It was smelting blustering and cold but not extraordinary for ye season.

Tuesday October ye 2nd.

Today draught first day of provisions. Three of salt and two of Fresh.

Wensday October ye 3.

The ledere from the other point joined the party today.

Thursday October ye 4.

Ye Colonel and the rest of ye party came over today. A searjent and twelve men from the Fort joynde us today.

Fryday October ye 5th.

Today orders to send the sick home. Today a quntity of Government stores sent to camp.

Saturday October ye 6th

The Brig of Ticontirogue Being finnisht fired off her peeses at knight.

Sunday ye 7th.

Today all the sick in the camp set out for home. Ninety-five out of our rgmt. Eight out of our company. Our party rec'd eight days provishams.

Thursday October ye 11.

This morning ye sloop from Ticontirogue went down the Lake to Crown Point.The Gen'l having all things Redy the artilery and the artilery store on bord. the army embarcked for St. Johns leaving none But the workmen that Carried on the Works at the Fort under the Command of Brigadier Ruggles.

Sunday October ye 14th

Sirkee the Post set out for home. Nuse today that our fleet had a brush with some of the French Vessels and drove them onto a rock and Beat up a Challenger.

Thursday Octo ye 18th

The nuse Today is satisfyed that Gen'l Woulf was killed and the Leut Genl and a grait number of soldiers and both the genls of the French army viz: genl MontCalm & Lieut genl.

Sunday, Octer ye 21st

Today his Excellency Genl Amherst returned from his seige to crown point.

Monday October ye 22nd

Today I went to Crown Point.

Thursday ye 25th.

Orders for a detachment of men to make bridges and mend the Rhod to number four.

Fryday ye 26th

Today a Party of all ye Provenshals Forces drue twelve days of provisions and marcht for number four to mend the Rhode and make Bridges for the army.

Sunday ye 28th

The StokBridge Indians marcht of today to their Qurters.

November. Thursday ye 1st.

This morning Massechussett & nue Jersey mans Ris with a resolution to leave the army and disobad their officers' orders. The party at this place when on ye Porraid Dropt their arms at the same time Connecticut and Rhode Island forces was ordered to their arms and maid a grate Turnout. Some of those men was confined and sent to Camp and at Knight the Genl cleard them and they returnd to their duty again.

Fryday ye 2nd.

Nothing Remarb today. This eving about fifty of Coll Willard's men got their packs slung and got aboard of some battoes and rowed across the lake. The Reglers fird on them and dangerously wounded one of their men and they retrnd to shore.

Saturday Novbr ye 3rd

Today it rained all day. Today a flag of Truse came to Crown Point.

Tuesday November 6th

Today John Richardson of Coll Fitch's Company for theft was whipt fifty lashes woll laid on.

Wensday November ye 7th.

This even a party of officers and soldiers of the Seventh Regt from Lake George Fort Edward and Fort Miller came to this post.

Saturday November ye 10.

It being King George's Bearthday the Inglish collours were histed. Was celebrated with an expression of joy. About two of the clock on the afternoon ye cannon was discharged three time and was followed with the discharging three rounds of the small arms and attended with finish of all sorts of musick that camp could afford and Eand the day with grait Burn Fires among almost Every Regt.

Sunday November ye 11th.

Today I save Farnum of Coll Fitch's Company

Monday Novembr ye 12th.

This morning ye Rhode Island Regnt Marched. Today about twelve of the clock one of Genl Gage's Light Infantry for theft was executed.

Thursday November ye 15th.

Things goe on with great expedission. Nothing as yet remarcibul. Camp nues carrys the day. Today our prisoners by a French Flag of Truse was brought to camp for an exchange one for the other.

Fryday November ye 23rd.

Today came out in general orders for Coll Fitch's Regnt to march.

October ye 4th, 1763

Today this fourth day I set out my journey with my wife to Long Island. The chief of that week I was detand at New England in New London. The wind being contirery I went from pillar to poast, from one plase to another till Saturday morning Providence favoured me. The wind being north I went aboard Mr. Griffins boat and was favoured with a remarkable pleasant day, and landed about two o Clock. On Saboth Day Eving I came to my Cousin Corrings and tarried til morning & after breakfast I set out for Coram. We came to Mr. Barkers, the ministers, stopt a ful minits. I was once more Detand by Stopping at Mr. Warren and we had some Rest. Then set out a fresh, it rained some; we quicened our pace, got to Coram about three of the clock and had some joy and gladness in meeting. The remainder of the weak I Spent my time in visting my friends & Conversing about things that was transacted while Each other was absant.

Corum, April ye 8, 1775

Credit By Chash from Mr. Rose

Credit for flax from Thomas Rose

Credit for 5lb flax from Jesse Rose

Credit for one Bushel of oats from Hennery Hulse and noe Shilling

Crdit for eleven sheets of paper from Nathan Rose

Credit for soling my shoes by Fransies Barton

Credit for a pare of Soles for my Shoes from Hennery Sammrick

Joseph Terry Dr. to me for schooling his children 00 10 00

Jeremiah Wheeler Dr. to me for schoolong his childe 00 05 00

Mordicai Hamm Dr. to me for schooling his children 00 10 00

Ebenezer Hamm Dr. to me for schooling his childe 00 05 00

Stephen Swasey Dr. to me for schooling his child 00 05 00

Hennery Summrick Dr. to me for schooling his children 00 10

Reuben Perkins Pirkins Dr. to me for schooling his child 00 03

James Brewster Dr. to me for schooling him 00 2 6

Francis Barton Dr. to me for his schooling 00 2 4

Stephen Barton Dr. to me for his schooling 00 2 4

____Conkling Dr. to me for schooling your son 00 5 0

Diary of Captain William Yarrington

1738-1811

Revolutionary War 1775-1776

Coram

Transcribed by

Elizabeth Yarrington Russell

Clara Hoyt Russell

New Transcript by

Carol Russell Law, 1976

The following excerpts are from a diary kept by William Yarrington during the American Revolution. The unedited copy can be found in the local history room at the Longwood Public Library. The diary was edited by students of the Longwood Middle School.

August 1775.

Two brigs upon the other side of the Point while our men was retreating. The Sloop put out her barge. The Sloop fired their cannon at our boats, our people fired at the barge. The firing increased on all sides a littel spread and fired from the Point and no life lost as yet we know. The Two Brigs laid their corce through the Gait and found the fleet. With discharging a Cannon Each.

Saturday 12th

Grait number sheep and cattel upon their return. It was expected a Tender was porsuing our men. Upon their Return The Whale Boats was pusht off for their Reliveth but their was none their. At Evening orders for ye men at Six o Clock.

Sunday ye 13th

After the men was Porraded and the Boat was Cauld We was ordered to attend Divine Servis Forenoon and After noon. From Timothy 2nd Chapter Third 4 and 5 verses Which Draud the Careictor of Offiser and Solder and a Solemn Address to Offiser and Solder in a particular manner.After Devine Servise the soldiers was porraded, The list Beind cauld we retired to our lodging.

Tuesday August ye 15th.

The Generals Companys in a Batallon was formed With the grenadiers and light infantry upon the Right, marcht Sloe and quick marcht and Whole Betallon was Exercised Together and marcht by drum and fife attended with grait numbers of Spectators which made a butiful apearence.The day concluded with Singing and prayers

Sept. 1775.

And concluded With Three Who saw The Company marcht into Town and Received the Capt's treat. By this time The Solders was Troublesome and we left the Town and Traveld til after Night and The Disperst to our lodging. I lodged at Mr. David Hedge.

Wensday 6.

Rose early in the morning Traveld on. Breakfast at Cousin Hanna Harrys. Stopt at Capt. Hubbards. Exercised. The men marcht in order. Stopping Several times by the way. Got to Mr Griffins about 12:o o Clock. Part of the Company Took Dinner and then Disperst and made the rest of our way home. I my family in Safety. I Thank God for Such a favour.

Thursday 7

After brackfast and Family Duty over went to Work That Day.

Fryday 8th

Visited Several relations and workt That Day.

Saturday 9

Workt Today and made preparations for a march. Towards night went to meeting.

Sunday Sept. 10.

Mr. Gillet preacht at Corum And I and my wife went to meeting.

Monday Sept 11

Workt Some and made a prepation for a march.

Tuesday Sept. 12th.

This morning Left home and went to Corum a according To orders and Time appointed. With wife and Children with me, Exercised the Comp. a Spel, Then Took Dinner at Mr. Daytons, then Exercised a while, we then marcht for Setaukit. Our paks being brought in a waggon we Stopt at Mr. Brewster, Took a Drink of Cider Then marcht to Capt Woodhulls, got their about Sun Down. Exercised the Company & Took a Treat for our pains from Captain Woodhull. And their put up for present quarters.

Wensday Sept. 13

We are in Good Spirits at our quarters a Waitting for our Capt.

Thursday ye 14th.

After Role Caulling and Brackfast Exercised The Company. After Dinner the Lieut and a number of our men went to Maj. Floyd's. He treated us with good language and Drink And let us have a whale boat for pass time to goe to the harbours mouth to Look out for a Sail or our Company. This eving nuse the Capt. was sick and Lieut. Marvin Sent for to march the Company up.

Fryday 15

I went home to my family. Took leave of them after tarrying one night and all friends.

Saturday ye 16

Left home and Came to Setauket at Dinner Time.

Sunday ye 17.

The Company attend meeting at Mar. Woodhulls. The Eastward part of our company Came in to Setauket harbour. The Capt. came to town this eving.

Munday ye 18th.

After our bread was Backt the company poraded and received the majs treat. We Imbarckt aboard, the ankor was Waid, histed sail, left Setauket about Sun Down. Having a light Brese, wind South Sow West Came past Huntington Next Morning.

Wensday 20.

The Company arived at the City of New York at Bateman's Slip about Ten o Clock after the Captain and Lieut. Went on Shore. After their return the Company Landed. Marcht Through the City with Drum and fife and Took quarters in the Barracks.

Thursday 21st

This morning our arms was carryd to the armours, all that wanted repairing. This eving attendednDivine Service at Mr. Gornos meeting. One Mr. Manning preacht, President of Rhode Island Cholledge.

Fryday ye 22nd

Capt. Grinnals Company Marcht out of the City.

Saturday 23

Capt. Johnsons Company Marcht out of the City.

Sunday ye 24

This morning our Capt. Begun to make payment to the Company to the first of September. So the Sabath was ended in that manner.

Munday ye 25

This Day the City was alarmed all under arms to march to Hempstead to Receive Some prisoners and to take Care of the Torrys. Ye Lighthorse And Each Company with their different Liverys which was Butifull to the Eye to Behold. Exercised their Companys and Returnd to their quarters.

Tuesday ye 26th

had the opportunity to see Esqer Jobe from Long Island and gave him the charge of twelve dollars & a lb. of tea to carry to my wife.

Wensday 27 Septer.

Left New York by order of the Congress and marcht tow or three miles from the Barracks and the Company Imbarkt aboard for Albany. The wind Blew to south. Waid ancor, Histed sail and got to top on way and Dropt ancor about one or Two o Clock at Night. The wind and tide being ahead.

Thursday 28th

This morning all hands was Well. Through the mercy of God. Our Captain took thirteen desarters aboard belonging to Capt. Johnson's Company. Belong to our Redgement. Ye wind and Tide Being Contrary Dropt Anker at Anthony's . At ten of the Clock histed Sail and Dropt Anker at New Winsor about Three o Clock that night.

Fryday 29

This morning part of our Offisers went on shore and took Breckfast. When all hands got on board histed sail, went about 6 miles the wind being ahead, put about to Winsor again. Went on Shore that night. our offissers and Some men partook of supper.

Saturday 30th

The Company went on shore for Exercise. The Capt. had the preference more than any company before them. That Day histed sail at Night, lay to.

Sunday, October 1st.

histed Sail about Brake of Day Having a Fresh Brese that Night, got to Albany that Night at the Dusk of the Eving.

Munday October 2nd.

Our Company Reimbarckt and incampt the North part of the city in a large pasture by the Riverside in the Continental Tents.

Tuesday ye 3

Nothing remarkabel Today. One of our men Sent home sick.

Wensday 4

Our men are some of them sick. Went of for home today, two men more. Our men Begin to be sick in this unholsom place.

Thursday 5

We are here in this tiresom place to Lodge on the Cold ground this Night. Collonel Van Scoyik Sent for a gard of a sergint and Six men. The Capt. Sent me to Wait upon his honor. Had the charge of Fifteen prisoners Both Regular and french from St. John's.

Fryday 6

Then was Releaved from gard after stanning Sentry all night. Capt. Hurlbart Came into our Camp Tonight and pitcht their tents.

Saturday 7.

Made preparation for a march, Struck our tents. The Sick men was sent in to the Hospital and a gard sent to the Fort to gard the prisoners. Then put our baggage into the waggins, left Albany Camp. About two of the clock crost the ferry at that flats. Marcht to the New City at the dusk if the eving and staid at Mr. Tillmans. Exercised our men the next morning, marcht after Twelve o Clock, Crost the new fery. Stopt once, tookt Refreshment. put up at a Dutchman's. This was Sunday 8th.

Munday 9th

After breckfast marcht Leaving one Sick man behind. Stopt at Mr. Benjamin's Took Refreshment, marcht to Stillwater, Halted at Liberty, gave three cheers, marcht, rested at mr. Graham's, marcht to Lt. Marvin's and rested ourSelves. took a drink that Leut. Marvin gave us; Our offisers dined at the Doctor's then marcht to Mr. Johnson's and put up that night.

Tuesday 10th

Marcht this morning, lost one man sick, Took breckfast at the Mills, Stopt at MackNeals and Took Some refreshment. Put up at Mr. Ashman's for the night.

Wensday 11th.

We all marcht this morning to the Ferry and took Breakfast, Through the goodness of God we are in health. Crost the Ferry marcht by the Ruins of Fort Edward, made several stops, got to Mr. Wing's that night.

Thursday 12th

Marcht early this morning past by the Halfway Brook, went about three miles from our lodging and kuct (cooked) breckfast. Then marcht to the Lake and pitcht our tents about Two of the clock. It was very Cold Night to lie on the ground that night.

Fryday 13th

General Wooster's troops marcht to the Lake to Day and Capt. Hurlbart's Baggage and gard.

Saturday ye 14th

Capt. Hurlbart's Company marcht to Fort George this day. I assisted at ye General muster master's place or house for writting. Helpt Draw the muster kards for our Company for the Revue and present State on Command and Sick.

Sunday ye 15th

Finnished the business of writeing; just at Night was mustered by the General Muster master. Gen'l Wooster's Company part of them Crost the Lake.

Munday ye 16

This morning got in readiness. Capt. Hurlbart with fife men and myself with bisness to the General at 11 o Clock left the fort. Took some Refreshment at tubal Island, it being a head wind we Lodged at Saboth Day Point that Night.

Tuesday 17th.

Rose Early this morning, got to the landing at about Ten o Clock. Rested ourSelves, we eat Backfast, then walkt up to Fort Ticonderogue. Returnd & Lodged at the Landing that Night.

Wensday 18th

The Capt. set out this morning with Capt. Sedgick and his Brother and Several others. got that Day to Saboth Day Point. Stopt their for that Day and Staid all Night and had victuals and Drink plenty. a number of sick men tarried at ye point.

Thursday Oct. 19

Rose early this morning after a morning drum, got Breckfast, made preparation to goe on board Both Sick and well Left the point at Eight o Clock. Got to Fort George at Twelve o Clock. All Returnd in Safty tho not all well. I was not Well my self by reason of the coald I chetcht in my passage back.

Fryday 20th

I was not well the Last Eving and was some poorly to Day. It has raind Extreem Hard several Days. Their is Know nuse Remarkabel at present.

Saturday 21st

Some men died out of the hospital, a Lieut. and two soldiers. At night brother Isaac went to the hospital being not well.

Sunday, Octoer. 22nd

Orders to imbark for Ticonderogue, got Breckfast, Struck our tents, putt all things on board. Left Fort George at Twelve o Clock in Company with Capt. Hurlbart's Company. Having a fine brese of wind got that night to Saboth Point and incamped.

23 Day.

After Breckfast Early next morning put on Board got to the Landing in the afternoon, pitcht our tents, got some Refreshment for to Stay all Night. Sudding Orders to strike tents and march to headquarters at Ft. Tic. this eving. Part of our Company marcht and incampt at headquarters.

Tuesday 24

In the forenoon recd our provisians for Three Days, regl orders at Night. I attended as orderly Sergeant to take orders. Was not well toDay, at night was quite poorly.

Wensday, Oct. 25

This morning warned, and turned out our men upon the Porade for works. Assisted in Droying a Return of our Company, then was appointed Orderly for the General, tho I was not a bit Well that Day and Rested not well that Night But through the unspeakabel Goodness of God this morning I am Some Better.

Thursday 26th

A general Cort marshall was hold at the Fort today.

Fryday, October 27th

I had the care of the working party. the Cort Marshal sat again toDay at the Fort.

Saturday October 28.

Was orderly for the Day.

Sunday October 29th

Early this morning turnd out the working party, then the gard, then made the Report of the Company present. To Day at Three o Clock Dind with Captain Griffings & Capt. Hurlbart's and Markeys, two colonels, six Captains, Twelve Lieuts & a Docktor and an Adjutant. At Night Receiv'd General orders and minutes of the Court Marshal.

Munday. 30th.

At nine of the Clock our Companys marcht on to the Point to see the marshal law Executed upon 6 Soldiers, which receivd 39 lashes apeace Except one Which was to be Receivd at 4 times being ye graitest in Crime. At night Came in the prisoners from Shambelle to Ticonderogue Being 184 in number, men , Woman and Children.

Tuesday, 31st

Early morning Liet. Riker and a Corporal & 10 men with a Battow (flat bottom boat) loaded with artilery Stores Belonging to Coll. Holm's Regt. Set out for St. Johns.

Wensday, November ye 1st

This morning Captain Hurlbart's Company by order of ye General Struck their Tents & marcht to the Landing to imbark aboard and to cross Lake George & to goe down the Country wiyh the prisiners.

Thursday, Nov. 2nd

This morning Expected to goe to Crown Point Having Leave from ye Coll Providence ordered it otherwise.

Fryday ye 3.

Nuse that Falmouth near Boston is burnt by ye King's soldiers orders.

Saturday ye 4.

Our men Groes Sickly & Duty Exsreamly hard.

Sunday ye 5

it was raney & uncomfortabel For Soldiers to be hear the in Continental servis. Nothing Remb. at present.

Munday ye 6

ToDay I was the General's orderly Sarjeant and Sergt Clark. Took ye orders for ye Company.

Tuesday Novem. ye 7th

The Long expected Express arived at Head Quarters from St. Johns. To the General that informs of ye Taking and Capitulation of St. Johns which was on ye Third Instant of ye month. This eving Capt. Johnson set out for Albany with the Express by order of the General.

Wensday ye 8th

ToDay Capt. Prat's Company marcht to headquarters.

Thursday Nov. 9th

Early this morning the General orders tents to be struck Through ye Commands & all ye Company to Take Shelter in ye Barracks. The prisoners Boats hove in Site from Saint Johns while we were moving our baggage to ye Fort. Being a tedious Storm of Rain and Snow.

Fryday ye 10.

The strorm Continue ToDay and it was over Shoes in mud & mier Having ye Barracks Crowded with ye prisoners Which was 594 which Grounded their arms at St. Johns Besides Woman and Children which were about.

Saturday November ye 11th.

This morning the prisoners Imbarkt, Some by ye way of Skeansbour and some by Lake George With a gard of one hundred men under ye Command of Capt. Mott. the Same morning Captain Griffing and his Brother went to the landing & cross ye Lake and to goe to Fort George & from thence Down the country being lame and not well. In ye after noon the unhappy Misfortain happind. The fort set on fire by ye prisoners as it was supposed in the Time they was hear at ye Fort.

Sunday Nov. 12th

I had ye Care of men main guard in the Fort with Lieut. Thompson.

Munday Nov. 13

To Day Capt. Baldwin's Company came to head quarters. our sick men was Discharged From Hospital and Sent to Fort George. A Searjent and four men. Jest at Night four gentlemen from Philadelphy Came to head Quarters of ye Light horse with four boxes of money. Lieut. Norton went on Command To Day to Skeansborow with 13 men out of our Company to fetch Battows that ye prisoners went down in.

Tuesday Nov. 14.

Lieut. Norton Returned from Skeansborow with the party of men having a Storm of Snow upon his Return.

Thursday ye 16th

This morning took ye charge of the guard under Lieut. Hunter, having a Tedious Cold Night of it.

Fryday ye 17

Lieut. Brunsen from St. John's with a party of Sick men came to head quarters.

Saturday ye 18th

This Day Captain _____ from St. Johna arived to Genl Schuiler with the Express that informs the surrendering of Montreal.

Wenesday ye 22nd.

Today at Eving Came in an Express From Coll. Arnol to the General that informs that Governor Carlton is Blockt up in the River with our gallant boys.

Fryday ye 24th.

To Day I was orderly for his Excellency. Capt. Peck and Capt. Arnold with part of their Company from Crown Point, came by land to Head Quarters.

Tuesday ye 28.

Lieut. Norton Having a permit from General Schuiler Set out for home

Saturday ye 2. December.

This Day Came out in General orders for Capt. Griffing Company thats Now in the Garrison is to move to Fort George.

Monday 4th.

This morning put our Baggage up, got the powder in Readiness. Loaded our stores on sleds with the powder, Went to the Landing, Sick and lame and dragg'd a boat from ye Bridge to the Lake. Put all things on board with high spirits to leave this Northward part of ye World.

Tuesday December 5th.

Got all on board Early to prosecute our journey. Our party of Officers was Majr. Tuthill, Lieut Riker. Lieut Marvin had the charge of 5 prisoners, Three white men and two Indians.

Saturday December 9th.

Our Company is hardly used. Have to keep a guard in the fort & Turned out on fatogue (fatigue) Drawing Batuoes out of the Lake & Live in Barracks Colder than a barn with 24 men round one fire. This a Disappointment enoufe to Discourage poor Soldiers in Their Country's Defense. When Lieut. Marvin had orders from the General to march Immediately With the powder and prisoners to Albany I just hint at Things for I am bound always.

Saturday. December 16.

Traveled on Early This morning, Crost the Ferry at the fields, got to Albany after noon having a harrowing march from Fort George.

Tuesday. December 19.

To Day got my gun Lock Dun, a new Day made.

Munday, December 25th.

Christmust Day, which was a pleasant Day But the Dnow was Deep and I Two Hundred miles or more from home. This Eving a man belong to the City of Albany being overChardg with Liquor was denied Entrance at his master's house, was found Next morning Frose to Dath in a open Room from Home.

1776

Tuesday, May 28

ToDay Received our Cartridge Boxes, Tents and other impliments With our Cartridges.

Tuesday June 4th.

ToDay Captain Griffing Came to the Point. The Company was exercised and formed the Square. I Received a Letter from home that informs me of Difficulties at home.

Thursday, June 6th

I had the oppertunity to see Captain Baly from Setaucket Bound to Sea. Took Dinner with us and he apeared an Enemy to the Cause. He went out ToDay to sea.

Monday 10

Mr. Davis from Coram Came to Oyster Pond, by him I Received a Letter from home and was glad to hear my family was well and all friends.

Tuesday 11th.

ToDay Colonel Garner & Majr Isaacs and Some of the Sagharbour Quality Came to Show Themselves.

Fryday, 14.

The Company Recevid their Cartridges, Likewise Lieut. Smith Came to Camp from Sagharbour with the guns the Committee provided for the Company. The square was formed and Lieut. Smith Treated the Company which paid His Entrance.

Sunday 16.

To Day an Express came to Coll. Terry's from New York with orders to have the Companys to be in readiness at the Shortest warning or notis.

Thursday, August 1st.

Captain Davis and his Ensign is come to our Camp for a season. John Alleebin was brought as a prisoner to our Camp.

Fryday, 9th

Orders given by Coll. Smith that the Stock are to be fecht of the Island.

Monday August 12th

I got to Coram about Twelve o Clock and took dinnerr and got to my own house after Two o Clock. Found my family well to my grait Satisfaction.

Thursday 15th.

Capt. Mulford's Company & Captain Roger's Company Marcht through Coram to Day.

Wednesday, August 21st

I took leave of my family and all friends and Set for Oyster Ponds. I took dinner at Sergt. Brown's

Sonday, 25th

Nues this Eving from New York that our Army Begun the Bloody Ingagement Last Fryday, 23rd of month. After the Regelars Begun to Land our Riflemen Fought the Battel upon Retreat Till They was Being Forst and may the prayer of God's people ascend in Such a hour as this that God would cover the heads of Those that jeopard there lives in so just a cause, and our enemies put to confusion.

Fryday, August 30th.

To Day afternoon the nues arived to Camp of the Battle fout at Flat Bush, the Bold attempt of our unnatural Enemies and the Conquest of our Army. The Soldier of the kind of times come for some asistance for to kill the Enemy was coming for them. Louis Rockwell younger.

Fryday Eveing

The Express came to Captain Roe to have his Company in Readiness to march as quick as possibel. The drum was ordered to Beat to arms immediately. Alarum was fired

Monday September 2nd.

Nuse flue from all quarters which was Day of Confusion and Sorrow to all True Sons of Liberty. The afore was Consulted and Teams was provided for the Baggage.Capt. Davis Joined our Two Companys with his. The Tents was Struc and Carts Loaded. We turned our Backs on our Enemies for the present and marcht Leaving our Dear Friends Behind.

Tuesday September 3rd.

The Companys marcht this morning in four Ranks in a Company aBreast. Got to Southholdtown after noon, had some Spiritous Liquor at Mores, then marcht to the harbours mouth. Vessels was pressed for our use.

Wednesday September 4th.

This morning we Histed Sail. Came to Oyster Ponds While ye Cannon was Brought on Board.

Saterday, September 7th.

The Inhabitans of our deprived Island are Dailey Leaveing There Habitations

Wednesday, September 11th.

Made Sabrook Harbour about Twelve o Clock, marcht up to Camp.

Saturday, 14th.

This Eving John Ruland of Captain Griffings Company was heard to Dam the Congress and swore it was better times under ye King and vented himself against ye cause in many hard expressions for which he was confined.

Sonday, September 15th.

Orders to Strike tents and doe up our Baggage in order to Imbark. All the Companys marcht to the waterside. Capt. Davis' Company & 32 men out of our Company Being 100 men Officers Excluded Imbarkt on Board for Long Island, the Rest of the men staid at Sabrook. A Regimental court martial was held to Try John Ruland of Captain Griffings Company. Found gilty of a mutiny was Sentence to be whipt ninety lashes on the Bare Back.

Thursday, September. 26.

Took Breckfast at Capt. Booth's the cattel was got on Board, we Came to Sail about 12 o Clock. Got to Saybrook. My Capt. was glad to see me & had a good many Welcomes from others.

Fryday 27th.

It is Reported the ministeral army is Imbarking at York. This Eving my wife & Children Came into Saybrook, with some of our affects to my grait joy.

Tuesday, Oct. 22nd.

The Rhode Island Forces arived to this place with Fifty Whale Boats.

Thursday 24th.

The Company Imbarked on Board our Comp went on Board of Capt. Cooper. Coll. Levenston's Detachment of vessels was upwards of 20.

Saturday, October 26th.

Got the vessel of and after our officers Came on board we came to sail at nine of ye Clock. Esq. Youngs and Mr. Lester in a smaul boat from Sterling Came on Board of our vessel. Inform us of Fourty Tories on horseback are ransacking the Island.

Richard M. Bayles Diaries

abstract by

Mr. Donald Bayles

August, 2000

Items from diaries of Richard Bayles

1872

Apr. 15 In Port Jefferson. Sold my shop at Middle Island to Alanson Overton,

" 16 Rode out home with A.J.Parker. Went to work clearing out shop. Attempted to sell rubbish at auction Thurs. - nobody came. Tried again Friday, then Saturday and sold out - about $20.

May 8 Walked over to Old Field this afternoon. Temp. 88 degrees

" 10 Came over to Stony Brook in stage. Very hot - 91. Went out rowing this afternoon with Mary E.H.

" 20 Came over to Port Jefferson. Found Eliza Ann gone out to MI so I stayed and helped Selah.

June 7 Went over and helped the ladies get the stoves down in church.

July 4 Went on picnic with Eastport people up the bay to Floyd's Grove, Mastic - 80 people - two boats. The "Gazelle" carried the party and a smaller sloop took the provisions. After dinner we went over to the beach. Back to Eastport about 6 o'clock. Went to see display of fireworks in evening.

Aug. 31 Went to Port Jefferson with Joe Randall and employed Dr. Burns to pull a tooth. He pulled the wrong one and I paid him 50 cents for the job.

Sept. 4 Went again to PJ and got Dr. V.Smith to dig out the aching tooth. He got the right one and only charge 25 cents.

1873

Oct. 7 Overton has gone to NY and left me in charge of the Editorial dept. of "The Leader". have been trying to furnish the boys with copy.

Nov. 18 Started in storm for PJ. Too late for stage at Coram. Walked all the way over.

Dec. 29 Overton went to NY to get press work done on book this PM.

Cost of book "Sketches of Suffolk County":

7 reams of paper $ 65.10

6 " 54.60

Composition, presswork, Overton 343.50 75 cents a page

Stereotyping 434 pages 151.90

Binding 140.85

Express 4.25

Back stamp 10.00

Printing, binding - 2nd edition 264.00

Total cost $ 1034.20

1874

July 4 My rowboat, which I have been several weeks building, being now afloat, I took it on a voyage of discovery this morning. Rowed around Setauket harbor and called on my relatives until a heavy thunder shower came up so remained all night and came home to PJ afoot.

July 7 Went to Setauket and brought my boat around this morning. Rough rowing near the mouth of Setauket harbor. The 3 masted schooner "Emma Aery" launched this afternoon from yard of CDB & So

" 14 Went on S.S. picnic - 10 or 12 boats. Went with my row boat and took in 5 girls, 2 of whom did the rowing. Location, Cedar Grove, Strong's neck.

" 21 Went out to Mr. Lee's to Bayles family picnic. 50 present.

Aug. 28 Received 250 books from S.W.Green by packet "Jacob Duryee" this afternoon. Second edition.

Sept. 22 Rowed down to Old Field.

Oct. 6 Went to Coram to go to PJ in the stage but the stage didn't wait for me and I walked over to Cumsewog and then rode down the hill on a load of straw.

Nov. 16 Husking corn. First days work at farming I have done in two years or more. Helped pull and cut turnips. Looked over my account with Uncle Edw. for board since June 3, 1872 and find I have been here 41 weeks.

Dec. 3 Canvassing for books Bellport and Brookhaven with poor success.

" 6 Went out in the woods to gather Christmas green. Attended prayer meeting and singing circle in the evening.

" 23 Attended donation at Rev. Woodruff's. Receipts cash $ 66.25.

1875

Mar. 2 Started to go up to Temperance Caucus at LHD's this afternoon. Was too late. ; They nominated me for Town Clerk.

" 31 Republican caucus at Coram today. Nominate J.W.Phillips for supervisor. Cutting ice to get steamer "Brookhaven" out of harbor.

Apr. 7 I am taking lessons in housekeeping - washing dishes, cooking, making beds, etc. The Democrat ticket victorious as usual.

" 14 Whitest looking morning for time of year I ever saw. Snow fell all night and is about 12 inches deep.

May 16 Helped Chris Swezey build a kitchen chimney at the parsonage.

" 20 Finished papering Mrs. King's room today. Old Hugh got drunk down in her cellar where she had sent him to clean out. He helped himself to the cider until I had to help carry him out.

" 31 Commence painting the house for Uncle Edward.

June 2 Went over to Robert Smith's wedding reception this afternoon. Large gathering, about 300 people.

July 20 Came out this morning to Bayles family picnic. Had photographer there but old Mrs. Graham would not let us use the old house for a back ground.

" 25 I created quite a sensation among my friends by shaving my chin. Five years have passed since it was shaved before.

" 29 Attended funeral of Miss Sally Hudson this afternoon, age 84.

Aug. 19---Tried to sleep last night in grandmother's bedroom as my room being turned out to make way for the mason to work. Fought bedbugs until I became demoralized and retreated in disorder to the northeast room where I found a quiet asylum.

Aug. 21--- Finished painting the back roof and picket fence. Happy day, I think I shall retire from the painting business. The job is done,

Oct. 2; - Finished making ink. News of capsizing of the sloop "Syrin" off Conn. shore creates some sensation.

Oct. 3, - Walked with Selah around to Mt. Sinai harbor along the shore and back across the Neck.

Oct. 5; - Rode out (from P.J.) with L H Davis to Coram and walked to Middle Island. Went over to prayer meeting in Mliddle District this evening.

Oct. 13, Walked toward Medford, overtook Ham Smith and rode to Patchogue. Took train to Bay Shore and attended evening session of Suff. County Temperance Society Convention.

Nov. 5; Came out to M.I. with 'Will Randall on hay wagon. Went to the choir meeting at Mrs. King's.

Nov. 6; Pulled most of my crop of turnips. About 15 bushels.

Nov. 13 - Helped husk corn all day and went up to Mr. Pearsall's praise meeting at Coram this evening. Very pleasant time and good audience.

Nov. 17 - Went up to Edw.J. Swezey's and cut a load of firewood for Miriam Hudson. Went without dinner and was tired out. Attended Praise meeting in Pres. church this evening.

Nov. 18 - EIbert Swezey brought wood down and took my turnips, 16 bushels at 15 cents.

Nov. 18 - Helped Uncle Edw. get in stalks this afternoon, Two loads, one for Temmy Hudson and one for George Ritch.

Thursday Nov. 25 - Attended Thanksgiving service M.I. Pres. church this morning. Came over to P.J. after dinner with Uncle Edw. Eliza Ann has daughter born last night. Eckford Robinson returns from Kansas.

Dec. 24 - Shipped 1/2 gross ink to Web by Medford stage this morning. Sent letters to several agents offering book at 1.00 each.

1876

Sat. Jan. 1 - The most beautiful weather for the time of year that I ever knew. Warm and summerlike. Thermometer stood about 90 in the sun and 60 in the shade in the middle of the day.

Jan.3 - I attended a "sheet and pillow case" party at Bentley's this evening. The men are clothed in waterproof cloaks and women in sheets and pillow cases, all masked. The first thing of the kind I ever attended.

Feb. 10 - Bought a watch this afternoon and traded it away in part payment for a coat this evening.

March 20 - Rigged up my costume today and appeared tonight as a Continental in the Old Folk's Concert at the Baptist church this evening. A full house and good entertainment and old fashioned supper afterward.

April 27 Fire breaks out near the railroad this afternoon and burns three houses in the neighborhood of "Dark Hollow". All the men in the village(P.J) turn out to fight it.

May 30 The Suff. County Temp. Convenetion meets here in P.J. in the Pres. church this evening. Saw my old Northville Academy teacher. He was present and addressed the meeting. J. N. Hallock

June 10 Fanning and I walked down to the public picnic at Homan's Hollow this noon. Went aboard the schooner "Copy" and sailed outside the harbor's mouth. Very pleasant sail. Two schooners with about 300 persons aboard.

June 21 Selah and Eliza Ann and children went out to the Ridge this afternoon to attend marriage ceremonies of Isabel Randall and Dr. 'VanHorn

June 23 Attended a meeting at the schoolhouse this evening, (P.J.) for the purpose of organizing a North Side Educational Association.

July 3 Attended the monthly Temperance meeting at Meth. church this evening and afterward helped in getting out the old cannon which had been buried under Mather's lumber shed, and took it over to Brickkiln where it was fired off. A continuous din kept up most of the night all about the streets celebrating the centennial fourth of July. Guns, bombs, steam whistles, and other devices for making a noise are played upon with vigor. The day is celebrated on Brickkiln by oratio, declaration, singing and band music, fireworks and guns. Finished up about 10 oclook at night.

July 21 I came out from P.J. with Coram stage and brought baggage, without any thought of returning.

July 23 A severe hail storm with stones as large as hickory nuts coming down by the bushel and covering the ground. Windows were broken in several houses.

Aug. 1 - Went over to P.J. this morning and made a kettle of ink. Went with Edw.J.S. from his house and returned with Uncle Edw. Delivered 1/2 gross ink to S. M. Swezey.

Sept. 6 - At work all day fixing tables etc. in the parsonage for the Fair. Attended the ice cream and candy table in the evening. Pleasant night. Not large company. Receipts $96.44.

Sept. 19 - Went to P.J. this morning with Uncle E's team and 3 ladies. Saw Joe Randall who was boarded and robbed in Flushing Bay last Sat. morning by river pirates who shot his mate EIisha Davis, (ran schooner)

Oct. 1 - Sidney H. Ritch is with us this morning to lead in singing in church.

Oct. 19 - Mulford Homan's house burned down about 2 oclock this morning.

Oct. 22 - The organ for the church came Saturday. I tried it in the church service this morning for the first time.

Oct. 24 - Alice Davis came down and played the new organ for awhile.

Nov. 2 - Attended the Sewing Society at L.H.D. Coram and the ladies decide to keep the new organ.

1877

Aug. 13 Presbytery meets according to notice and dissolves pastoral relations between Mr.Woodruff and the Middletown church.

Aug. 21 Went down to Yaphank and got a tent and fixed it up for an awning for the Fair at Moses Swezey's today. I attended the ice cream table. Receipts about $ 75.00. Played croquet by moonlight until 12 oclock.

Sept. 6- Went over to Wading River after beach plums with George Ritch's folks. Found great quantities of them on cliffs of Nathaniel Tuthill.

Sept, 15 Cutting up corn for Uncle Edw. every day for several days.

Sept. 25 Benjamin T. Hutchinson died this morning at about 1.30 AM, aged 69 years, 6 mos., 23 days.

Sept. 27 Funeral of Mr. Hutchinson at the church this afternoon. Mr. Woodruff officiates before a full house. Came to East-port. Eckford has the post office and a little store in his front room.

Nov. 11 Middle Island. Grandmother died this morning about noon after an illness of only two or three days.

Nov. 13 Grandmother's funeral held this afternoon at the church. Mr. Woodruff conducts the services. Sermon from text, "l have fought a good fight, I have finished my course etc." A large number of friends are here. Aunt H. and the girls remain and attend to dividing grandmother things and cleaning up the rooms etc.

Dec. 3 Will Davis comes down at evening and engages me to teach the Coram school at $6.50 a week, to begin tomorrow. A young lady teacher has been obliged to abandon it due to the rudeness of the pupils.

Dec. 4 Commenced teaching. My first day passed without any serious outbreaks. Commisioner Mount visits school before noon.

Dec. 20 The Methodist Fair which takes place at Ham Smith's this evening attracts the interest of the children so much that the school is almost deserted this afternoon.

Dec. 22 Went with J.H. Randall and RSO and brought in a lot of Christmas green for decoration for the Christmas tree exercises. Had singing meeting in the church this afternoon and met at Mrs. King's this evening.

Dec. 24 Ordered an organ of Prince & Co. for Edgar Swezey.

Dec. 25 Working all day trimming and fixing up the church for Christmas tree and exercises this evening. The house about filled and everything passed pleasantly.

1878

Jan. 1 At home at Middle Island. Teaching school at Coram. EIlen Swezey and William Hallock married last night. Went to my school today. Old George Green and his "squaw" (Negro Indians) kept New Years too hard yesterday and she laid out all night and froze to death.

Jan. 11 Joe Hudson arrives here today, having been absent from home since last spring on southern voyage.

Jan. 25 Attendance at school has increased a little this week but we have only averaged about 14 pupils.

Feb. 9 'Went to work with the help of Joe Randall and Uncle Edw. and got the church organ back in the gallery.

Feb. 27 Attended the wedding of Irene Lee and John P. Hawkins at her father's house this evening. Mr. Woodruff officiates.

March 3 Mr. Finch preaches and declines the offer of the trustees.

March 21 Had a contest this noon with one of my little girls whom I had sentenced to stand in the chair 10 minutes. With several of the large girls to encourage her, she resisted for about half an hour, but finally fulfilled her programme.

March 23 Went up this afternoon to see the boys play baseball at S.M.Swezey's. Coram and Middle Island played.

April 2 Went to Town Meeting this afternoon. A very large turnout. Pleasant day. 1699 votes polled. Several candidates on the Republican ticket elected. It took the board all night to canvass the votes.

April 9 Came to Riverhead on the noon train. Fell in with a crowd of teachers and went to the Griffin House to board. Attended the Institute this afternoon. Horace Randall died.

May 28 Rode out from Port Jeff with L H Davis to Coram, and stopped there and helped the girls overhaul their melodeon, and walked home to M. I.

June 10 There is no minister to conduct services this morning and I am requested to read a sermon which I do.

June 13 Went up to Edgar Swezey's and played croquet all forenoon.

Jul 4 Went to Eastport and went with about 125 people on a sailing party to the beach opposite Center Moriches Capt. Will Tuttle's sloop "Lucy Ball

July 15 Came back to Middle Island by RR to Yaphank and rode up with Henry Hutchinson.

July 18 Terrible HOT. The two hottest days ever known by the oldest inhabitant. Thermometer went as high as 98, and stood at 96 for 8 hours today.

July 24 Played croquet with Sid Ritch and Robert Overton this afternoon. The funeral of Van Ranselaer Swezey is held at Yaphank this afternoon.

Aug. 7 Came to Greenport and took steamer "Sunshine" to Hartford.

Aug, 9 Came back by steamer to Chester. Terrific blast of rain, hail, wind, thunder and lightning just at night. A tornado at Wallingford. Heard of loss of life and property by the tornado at Wallingford. 35 houses blown down and over 30 persons killed and many others injured.

Aug. 15 Walked down to Deep River and took steamer Sunshine to Greenport and walked up to Southold at night.

Aug. 16 Came by RR to Yaphank and rode with Train most of way home.

1879

Jan. 1 I am here in Middle Island. Have failed to find anything to do this winter. Christmas tree in church. I received presents and made presents to my class.

Jan. 3 Coldest day known in years, 6 to 20 below zero in places about the parish. Milk freezes as it strikes the pail in drops as I milk, and water freezes as it strikes my clothes as I draw it and carry to the animals.

Jan. l9 William Sidney Smith died. Thermometer about zero.

Jan. 23 Attended the funeral of William Sidney Smith, Longwood.

Feb. 20 William L. Davis and Carrie Overton are married this noon. Mr. Youngs, formerly of Yaphank, officiates, and Mr. Allen assists. The bridal party start for a pleasure trip to New York.

April 1 Town meeting is well attended. 1557 votes polled. Six Republican candidates elected. Also the Temperance candidate Wm. B. Rose for Com'r. of Excise. All the rest Democratic.

April 24 Sat up in my chair all night watching the toothache.

April 25 Having put a plaster on my arm I slept well last night, without annoyance from the toothache.

April 29 Went up to the Sewing Society this afternoon at LHDavis' .

May 7 Helped plant corn all day. Finished the piece of about 3 acres. Went over to Mrs. Alonzo Chappels in the evening to attend a select "Sociable". Mr. Allen and I walked both ways and arrived home 12 oclock.

May 12 Mr. Allen and I walked down to Bellport this morning and walked back in the evening, walking all the way. Time 3 1/2 hours.

May 29 Attended meeting of Presbytery for the examination, ordination and installing of Frederick E. Allen as pastor of the Middletown Pres. Ch.

June 19 Wrote to J. N. Hallock asking him to make offer for my remaining copies of "Sketches of Suffolk County."

July 2 A hot day, This afternoon I helped 'Lis Ritch wrestle with a big calf (235 pounds) and tie him to carry to P.J. We found it a heavy contract.

July 4 Helping with the hay all day. Bartlett's cannon is fired several times and small boys shoot off firecrackers and larger ones guns.

July 11 Worked at carting in hay from Mrs. King's lot east of her barn. The last of the haying.

July 19 Commenced making a map of Long Island on muslin, 2yds wide and six yds. long.

Aug. 4 Walked down to Yaphank and paid Roswell Davis 75 cents I had borrowed of him two weeks ago. Picked up eggs and sugar for ice cream for Sunday School picnic, and went up to raising of Moses Swezey's barn frame this afternoon. A party of young people from Artist Lake call for me this morning and I go with them on a straw ride to the Sound shore at Rocky Point. We returned home about five oclock. Pleasant day. (Saturday Aug. 9th.)

Aug. 28 Helped around the threshing machine. Seymour Swezey drives it. I stow away the straw.

Oct. 22 Painting on the church, Seymour, Sam Homan and R. E. Hammond. Received certificate (temporary) to teach school at Eastport

" 23 Came to Eastport and cornmenced teaching school in district No. 20. School seems to have been much indulged in making noise and rather disorderly conduct.

" 29 Received word from Uncle Edw. that the church painting is completed. Wrote to Mrs. Smith and sent her the bills.

Nov. 1 Started to New York by train this morning and called on J. N. Hallock and Eckford Robinson. Stayed over Sunday with him.

Nov. 5 Went to work again at the school after election day holiday. Now have 39 pupils registered.

" 8 Bought a pair of boots of Penney & Tuttle for $5 and a box of collars for 15 cents on credit.

" 15 Working the net machine all day. Finished the piece that was in it, 50 yards.

Dec. 13 Little Tracy Tuttle, one of my pupils, while out on the bay sailing, is knocked overboard, and dies before he reaches the shore.

" 27 Came to Middle Island. The church looks very nice, being being trimmed with green wreaths all around the room. The organ is downstairs.

Board for 34 1/2 weeks owed to E. A. Swezey at $2.00 per week.

1880

January On vacation from Eastport school since Dec. 24.

Feb. 24 Finished my term of school this afternoon. Had a few exercises. Attended "Mite Society" meeting and supper this evening at L. T. Ketcham's

March 4 Finished a piece of net, 60 yards, and got another piece into the loom.

March 10 Packed my trunks to return to Middle Island and came to Yaphank by morning train, and by Howell's stage to Middle Island with trunks and baggage.

April 16 Went up to Fred Swezey's this evening to choir meeting.

May 18 Went up to L.H. Davis' to Sewing Society this afternoon. Paid Uncle Edward, what I owed him on account $66.00

1881

Jan. 1 This date finds me at Eastport, where I have been all fall and winter. Doing nothing at present. There is a snow blockade on the railroad, no trains having been through for three days and snow is about 20 inches deep.

Jan. 5 About 5 inches snow fell during the night so we now have about two feet on the ground.

Jan. 6 A locomotive with snow -plow goes down this morning working their way slowly, with 60 men to dig.

Jan. 7 The evening train came dovvn on time, the first regular train after a suspension of eight days.

Jan. 20 A great many sleighs pass going to an auction at Westhampton, driving across the pond.

Jan. 25 A Mr. Thomas Cushing calls on me this evening, having come from New York to see me about writing a historical sketch of Suffolk County for a work to be published by 'W.W. Munsell & Co.

Feb. 11 Received letter from Mr. Cushman accepting my proposition to write up an article on Suffolk County for $50. to $60.

March 14, Dr. Cushing appears and I go with him to see Pelletreau and we bargain to furnish town histories, my contract covering Brookhaven, 50 pages, and Riverhead 17 pages, for $145.

March 23; I am to work on the road but Edwin (Penney) wants me in the store so hires and pays for a substitute for the road work.

Writing on historical work nearly every day.

April 5; Received $5. from Penney & Tuttle in full for 5 days services. Elbert Swezey and Jotham his son stopped here last evening and stayed alI night.

April 26; Walked up to East Moriches this afternoon to look at the railroad building. About 40 Italians are at work there. They have just commenced today. The grade stakes call for a fill of about 22 feet in John Raynor's swamp and a cut of 10 feet through the hill just west. (Starting construction of railroad from Eastport to Patchogue)

May 28; Finished my historical sketch of Suffolk county which has occupied me about all the time since the first of March. Packed my manuscript ready to send to W.W. Munsell & Co. Shipped by express.

June 18 Finished a piece of net 60 yards 3/4 wide. Spooled, warped and put in another piece of 55 yards, Weaving net most of the time lately.

June 29; Went up and rode on the sand flat cars over the new railroad nearly to Moriches. Settled up board account with Aunt Hulda sinceDec. 1, 1880, 27 1/2 weeks $68.75

July 8; Received letter from Dr. Cushing saying that W.W. Munsell Co agrees to give me $50. to write up Smithtown of 11 pages for their history. I accept the offer.

July 19; Took morning train to Yaphank and Howell's stage line for Middle Island. Found everything very much as it used to be.

July 20; Went to the Town Clerk's office and began looking over some of the old records. Mr. Coleman, one of Munsell's canvassers calls on me and I give him names of some most likely to take the book.

July 24; Attended Sunday School and took the lead of my old class. Attended church in the choir which remains in the corner. Called on Azel Swezey and Temmy Hudson this afternoon.

Aug. 10; Attended church fair at the old town poor house at Coram. A large attendance. Receipts are about $130. A large turnout.

Oct. 18; The old depot ( Manorville ) is moved down this evening from its old site on the country road (just east of Manor branch line) to its new site. The men are working most of the night.

Oct. 19; Trains stop at the new depot today. I go out and help the boys dig away the ditch for a road in to the new depot, west of J.C.Tuttle's

Oct. 31, Went up to Center Moriches and commenced teaching school as principal of the village school. My assistant is Miss Carrie L. Penney. Small school and very quiet. Have pleasant day. Return to Eastport at night.

Dec. 26; Finished my History of Brookhaven town and sent it by express this afternoon to W.W. Munsell Co. Practiced the program with the children this forenoon. Attended the Christmas exercises at the church before a crowded house this evening.

1882

Feb. 4 Sent manuscript Riverhead town history to publishers. Made arrangements this morning for taking the school out sleigh riding. We had two four horse sleighs and one two horse, all loaded. Went to Speonk and back. Started 1.40 PM and got back 4 oclock.

Feb. 21. Received check $45, from W.W. Munsell Co. for writing Riverhead town history.

April 4; Town meeting results in election of entire Democratic ticket

May 24; My school closes today. My desk is ornamented with flowers and the children also make me presents. A large number come to the depot see me off on the train.

Working in the net room most of the days.

July 13; Here at Middle Island. Rode down to J- H Randall's with Uncle Edw. and took Mrs. King. Went up to Coram and called on L.H.Davis this afternoon with 'Liss Ritch.

July 22; Helped Uncle Edw. get in four "jag's" of -wheat and two of rye today.

July 27; I went over with Mr. Allen to the Ladies Sewing Society at William Sidney Smith's this afternoon, Large company present.

July 28, A hot day. Ther. 100 in some places. Took dinner with Mr. Allen and raked oats three hours toward night.,

Sept. 24; Went to work in J H Randall's store. Mr. Walling is sick and Joe is full of business, carpenters at work enlarging store.

Oct 24; J. H. Randall paid me off at a dollar a day for four weeks.

Oct. 28; Went with D.H. Raynor to look over Manorville school and agreed to take the school at $6.50 a week.

Oct. 30; Came to Manorville and began teaching the school with 26 pupils. Got along all right. Boarding at D.H. Raynors.

Nov. 3; Had school out at half -past two and went to the depot to take the train to Eastport. Minutes late so took mail train west to Medford, stage to Patchogue and evening train to Eastport.

Dec. 25; Rode over to Port Jeff. this forenoon with Uncle E, & George Ritch, James Swezey and Eddie Pfeiffer. Wished the people "Merry Christmas" and took the stage to Medford and evening train to Manor.

Dec. 31; At Middle Island. No service in church today. Called at Azel Swezey's this afternoon. Azel opens the church and rings the bell this evening and we have a prayer meeting, though small attendance.

1883

Jan. 5 Left school at 2:30 and went down to Eastport on the train.

Jan. 6 Went up to Moriches this afternoon and back on evening train.

" 7 Walked up to Manor this afternoon over a bad road - the RR track covered with crusted snow.

" 8 Settled board account with Geo. W. Raynor.

" 10 A heavy snow storm is on hand. It falls all day. No school.

" 30 A "party" is held at the house this evening. I went to bed about 11 o'clock but sleep was prevented by the pandemonium of dancing which continued in the room below until 2 o'clock next morning.

Feb. 7 Only 12 pupils at school. Administered corporal punishment to two for the first time this winter.

" 10 Went down to Eastport on PM train to see to my desk which I sent down there.

Apr. 3 Went to town meeting where I am running for Town Clerk on Republican ticket. Not elected. Staid at Middle Island all night.

May 19 Replied to J.B. Beers & Co.'s inquiry that I will write county history for them for $ 12 a week and expenses.

" 24 Went over to Wading River this evening and delivered my lecture ( probably Suffolk County history ) to a good audience in the Congregational church.

" 25 Saw Pelletreau on his return from excursion to the opening of the Brooklyn Bridge.

" 26 Wrote to newspapers to change address to Eastport.

" 28 Closed my school engagement at Manorville.

" 31 Went down to Southampton and delivered my lecture on Suffolk County history in the M.E. church in the evening. I was the guest of W.S. Pelletreau.

June 1 Took noon train to Manor, thence to Hicksville and back to Huntington to attend the North Side Teachers' Associaton. Was the guest of Dr. Sturges.

" 2 Gave a talk on the history of Suffolk County before the Associaton this morning. Came down to Port Jefferson this evening.

" 4 Went over to Setauket this evening and delivered a lecture. Had a full house.

" 12 Packed up my trunk and left Eastport on the afternoon train.

" 13 Took train this morning to New York. Bought a suit of clothes at Baldwin's, cor. Broadway adn Canal St. Took the "Escort" at 6 o'clock up the river arriving at Catskill at 6 o'clock next morning.

" 15 Worked in the County Clerk's Office making a list of the officers.

" 16 Took steamer "Elouise" up to Hudson this morning and crossed the ferry to Athens. Returned to Catskill in the afternoon.

" 19 Pelletreau arrives on the steamer this morning. Mr. F.W. Beers comes in the evening.

July 9 Attended celebration of the opening of the East Shore RR this afternoon.

" 19 Took steamer "City of Hudson" to Albany this morning. Went to the State Library, Secretary of State's office and County Clerk's offfice.

" 25 Looking up matters in the County Clerk's office.

Aug. 4 Have been steadily at work in the County Clerk's office every day for nearly trwo weeks.

" 24 Have spent this week copying a census return of 1810.

" 25 Went to the mountains today. Took train to Palenville and a stage to Haines Falls, Kaaterskill Falls and down the Mountain side turnpike to Palenville and back by train to Catskill.

Sept. 11 Went on an excursion by West Shore RR to Saratoga gotten up by M.E. church for $ 1.75. 400 persons. Drank at the spring and continental dinner.

Oct. 1 Finished my county sketch today and sent it to the office this afternoon by Am. Express - 385 page manuscript.

" 6 F.W.B. arrives this morning. Has employed another man who will relieve me of Cairo.

" 18 Started early on the excursion to centennial celebration of disbanding of the army at Newburgh. Had a tedious time on the return. Reached Catskill at about 2:30 next morning.

" 19 Spent day getting my trunk ready. Took the boat "Kaaterskill" down the river at 6 pm for New York.

" 24 Came up to Bellport to stay ( with Charlie and cousin Alda ) a while to write out my notes of Catskill.

Nov. 17 Finished my Catskill history. Returned to Eastport by evening train.

Dec. At work in the net weaving garret.

" 25 Came with Charlie and Alda to Middle Island to keep Christmas. Folks from Port Jeff do not get out. Bellport folks return. I stay.

" 27 Went to Jo. Randall's

" 29 The Hawkins' sons are out from Stony Brook.

" 30 Rode up to Mr. Lee's to dinner. Returned in afternoon in time to greet Selah ( cousin Eliza Ann's husband ) with whom I rode to Port Jefferson in a sleigh.

1884

Jan. 3 Came out to Middle Island at night with S.M. Swezey.

" 7 Walked to Yaphank this morning. Left by the train. Walked to Manor and took train to Eastport at 3 o'clock. Aunt Huldah had arrived on noon train.

" 8 At work in the net room.

" 17 Received word from D.R. Davis of Coram that I am wanted to teach a singing class at Middle Island.

Feb. 21 Began a wood-house for Aunt H. Framed it and covered it except the roof and made the door.

" 24 Charlie Swezey and Rena Dayton are married this evening.

Mar. 7 Went to Middle Island on freight train. Rode up with Mr. Wm. Sylvester Swezey.

" 15 Middle island is to have a daily mail.

Apr. 14 Took morning train to Babylon to attend Teachers' Institute.

" 18 Institute closes at 3:30 PM and most of the teachers go home. I am elected president of Association. Read my paper "The Aims of Public Education" before the associaton.

May 5 At work moving Aunt Huldah's household goods across to her new house.

" 15 Attended the ceremonies at the "planting" of the Hunters Garden at Brewster's Lots. About 100 present. Clam chowder, eel chowder, and fish and oysters. Band music and badge presentations to cowder-makers.

" 16 Attended the South Side Teachers's Association at Islip this evening.

June 2 At M.I. Called on Aunt Temmy Hudson.

" 12 Uncle Edw. brought Aunt H. and me to Bellport Sta. where we took train to Eastport.

July 16 Took steamer "Sunshine" this morning to Middletown, saw Dr. Cushing, then came down to Chester and found cousin Mills. Stayed at his house all night.

" 18 Came up to Haddam town center and engaged a boarding place.

" 19 Spent all day in the town clerk's office looking over records.

Aug. 2 Got a horse and buggy and drove out around the back part of the town taking observations and notes.

" 4 Went up to Middletown this morning and saw F.W.Beers and several of the men. Made arrangements to write up Essex and went down there to take observations. Returned to Chester this evening.

6 Came down to Essex and stopped at eh nion House while I am taking notes.

" 7 After dinner took the steamboat "Sunshine" to Greenport.

" 8 Came on the morning train to Manor and by afternoon train to Yaphank and stage to Middle Island.

" 11 Went to work indexing my notes and writing letters.

" 27 Took steamer "Sunshine" to Connecticut arriving at Essex about 1 o'clock.

Sept. 6 At work on records. Finished them in the boat shop by the water. Cooler than my room.

" 10 One of the hottest days on record. Nearly overcome by the heat.

" 13 Took train to Bridgeport and took boat to Port Jefferson at night.

" 15 Looked about Port Jefferson today and spent the evening with Sid Ritch.

Oct. 8 All day on Essex. Finished writing the manuscript.

" 13 Worked on Haddam and wrote some letters.

Nov. 8 Mailed several pages more of Haddam history, which is now completed.

" 10 Sent the last pages of Haddam history.

" 21 Spent most of forenoon with Eleazer Overton, getting him started away from Aunt Temmy's. He is on a drunk.

Dec. 1 Went over to Port Jefferson on a load of wood with Eddie Pfeiffer.

" 25 Uncle Edw., Aunt C. and Minnie went to Stony Brook this morning and left me to keep house and take care of things all alone.

" 26 Organized my singing class. There are about 12 persons in it.

1885

Jan. 8 Sent off 500 letters soliciting advertising for my Hand-book of L.I.

" 14 Mrs. Amelia Dayton died this afternoon, after a sickness only since last night.

" 24 Writing on Hand-book.

Feb. 6 I finished writing the descriptions for my Hand-book to-day.

Mar. 2 Went with Sidney Still to look for some one to take goods to Bayport. Helped load a wagon in the afternoon. Engaged John Swezey in the evening to go to Bayport tomorrow. Settled with Danz for Aunt Temmy.

" 3 Helped load and get things away from Aunt Temmy's. She went with Mr. & Mrs. Still. Two loads of stuff went Made all day at work on that business. Got a search warrant for bedding, etc. stolen from Aunt Temmy's.

" 4 Got Marcus Homan, constable, to serve search warrant on Eleazer Overton and get goods belonging to Aunt Temmy. Got a feather bed and bedding.

" 7 Henry Carter came up this morning and took formal possession of his property, late of Nathaniel Hudson's. Paid me for the locks and left the keys with me.

" 12 Uncle Edw. tried his new mare that he got yesterday in trade for "Charlie". Went up to Coram with her and "Sam" harnessed together first time.

" 14 Received subpeona to attend justice court next Saturday 10 o'clock in the case of Eliza Carter vs. Eleazer Overton.

April 15 First sheet of my Hand-book got to press.

" 17 Came down to Eastport this AM. Put piece into the loom, warping it this afternoon

In Eastport working in net room.

May 30 Put in a piece and wove 12 yds. to fill an order for extra large mesh. Looked over account with Aunt Huldah to date. This probably closes net weaving for the present.

June 2 Finished battening the south side of the house. Aunt Huldah paid me $ 30. Wrote a number of letters this evening to parties whose portraits I had engaged for my hand book but cannot use.

" 6 Came down to Eastport this forenoon. Received letter from W.W. Preston wishing an interview in relation to writing county history. Wrote him I would visit him in N.Y. next Wednesday.

" 10 Went to New York this morning. Met Mr. W.W. Preston at the "Christian at Work" office according to agreement. Also met Pelletreau there. Went with him up to Yonkers and stayed the night.

" 11 Came down on steamer this morning to N.Y. Looked through the Astor Library, the New and old City Halls, and took afternoon train to Eastport.

" 18 Rec'd letter from Preston about Putnam County. He finds its history has been written and the writer is now revising. Nothing definite yet.

" 20 Came to Middle Island today, by way of Manor. Aunt Huldah came with me. Spent 4 hours at Manor and chartered Howell's stage to come up with me to Middle Island.

" 25 Got an early start and came by Yaphank station to N.Y., thence to Yonkers, where I arrived about 11:30, met by Mr. Preston with whom I agreed to work for $15 a week and expenses added. I am to assist Dr. Cole in writing the history of the town of Yonkers.

" 26 At work in the Dutch Reformed Church on my writing.

July 3 Made out a day's work and then took steamer "Christenah" to Haverstraw with Pelletreau. Stayed at the house of Hampton Penney, who is a brother of Sidney Penney at Moriches.

" 4 We started out this morning - hired a hack and drove to the "Smith House", to Stony Point, visited the light house, then to Tompkin's Cove, returning to Haverstraw depot (old depot) took R.R. to West Point, looked about the grounds and took steamer "C.Vibbard" to Yonkers.

" 28 Started this morning and went to Port Jefferson, where the Bayles family are holding a picnic at "California Grove". 23 persons there. Had a pleasant day.

Aug 5 Went down to the railroad this afternoon and saw the funeral train with Gen. Grant's remains pass on its way from Albany to New York.

" 6 Received 50 copies of my L.I. Hand-book from the binders, and sent out copies and bills to most of my advertisers.

" 10 Went over to White Plains this forenoon and talked with Preston about Staten Island. Settled my account with him. Returned to Yonkers and left this afternoon coming by way of New York to Yaphank and Middle Island.

" 17 Went to Orient and worked back to Greenport this afternoon, making arrangements for selling my Hand-book. Put up at the Clark House at Greenport.

" 19 Came up to Southold and got Elbert Swezey to bring me on up to New Suffolk and Cutchogue where I took P.M. train to Riverhead.

" 25 Attended the funeral of Mr. A. Van Horn at the church here in M.I.

Sep 1 Took stage and train this aftrnoon and went to White Plains, arriving there at about 9 o'clock, according to request of L.E. Preston received in letter today.

" 2 Came with Preston down to New York, by way of Yonkers where we called at Dr. Cole's but did not see him.

" 12 Went to Coram this afternoon to the Rep. town primary.

" 14 Attended the funeral of J. Orlando Randall at his residence.

" 18 Took 6:35 train this morning to New York. Thence came to Port Richmond, Staten Island by 10:45 boat from South Ferry. Stopped here at the St. James Hotel, which was once called the Continental House, where Aaron Burr died.

" 19 Went to White Plains this forenoon to see L.E.Preston. Visited Washington's Headquarters of the Revolutionry times.

" 21 Came back to Staten Island this morning. Met W.W. Preston at South Ferry according to arrangement, and he came with me. Saw J.M. Clute about copyright of Clute's History. Saw some other parties.

" 22 I went over to New York and went with W.W.P. to call on some parties who have matter pertaining to the history of Staten Island.

Oct 7 Left Port Richmond after dinner. Missed the Greenport train at Hunter's Point and took Port Jefferson train.

Nov 3 Walked up to election this morning.

" 4 Came down to Eastport by way of Yaphank and Manor. Take meals at Edwin's and sleep in Aunt Huldah's house.

" 5 Went to work in the net room.

" 25 Attended the marriage of Thos. B. Lee and Frances L . Smith at Coram this evening. About 60 or 70 present at the wedding.

Dec 18 Funeral of Hampton Overton at the church this forenoon.

" 25 Came on the Branch train to Manor and PM mail train to Yaphank, then walked home. Met Robert S. Overton at Manor. We dined at Capt. S. Raynor's.

1886

January In Middle Island writing history of Staten Island.

Jan. 13 Temp. 16 below zero this AM.

" 14 " " " " Received Webster's dictionary today and sold it to Willet Swezey.

" 15 " 10 " "

" 18 I caught a ride with S.M.S. to Medford and went to N.Y. At night with Prestons talking over Staten Island history business.

Feb. 9 Spring like day. The sleighing is spoiled.

" 16 Bought an organ for Aunt C.

" 27 Blizzard continues all day, a terrible wind.

Mar. 1 & 2 Gale continues

" 24 Rec'd word from Preston. He wants me to come down. Another man is preparing a History of Staten Island and he is scared.

" 25 Went to Brooklyn this AM.

Apr. 2 Daniel Buckingham's dau. Mrs. Frank Terrell buried.

" 15 Sent first 4 chapters of S.I. History to Preston.

" 19 Temp. 76 in the shade this noon.

" 20 Great fire in the woods between Yaphank and Longwood.

" 23 Hot day. Temp. about 80 in shade at noon.

May 3 Hired ground of Willet Swezey at $3 per acre.

" 5 Had ground plowed. 1 1/2 acres of it by Lewis Ritch.

" 10 Funeral of Dr. Baker at Yaphank.

" 15 Planted corn.

June 5 Sent balance of S.I. History to Preston making up to 1058 pages.

" 18 Went over to Jo. Randall's and helped him get his strawberries packed. He sent off 24 crates of 32 qts. each.

" 22 Looked through J.H.Randall's and Elbert Petty's strawberry patches. They show the greatest sights of rich, ripe strawberries that I ever saw. Hundreds of bushels are going to waste because the markets are flat and berries are not worth picking. I sent a crate to Manor by express this afterooon.

" 29 Offering hand-books at 2 cents each til July 10.

July 3 Sent off several packages of Hand-Boooks.

" 9 Sent 100 Hand Books to Livingston for 22 years sub. to "Signal".

" 11 Ulysses Ritch appears at church having arrived in N.Y. Friday from voyage around the earth.

" 22 Pleasant day. Went over to Port Jefferson by way of Patchogue stage from Coram and returned by same means afternoon. Ordered a big book case made and settled with Payne for books sold.

" 28 Pleasant day. Very hot. Went with Mr. Lee's folks, 8 of us in farm wagon, to Joseph Bayles' Mt. Sinai to have family picnic. Not many there. Misunderstanding. We had a pleasant time and returned at night.

Aug. 14 Went bathing this PM in Bartlett's pond.

" 20 Received my book case from Raynor's, P.J. by Lewis Ritch who had Uncle E's horse and wagon to go to P.J. I went up to Squire Davis afternoon and choir meeting there in evening.

" 27 Went to Port Jefferson this morning with Eliza Ann and her children. Uncle Edw. is threshing. They finish today. I return with the horse toward night. Bought a chair for $ 1.15 and some paint and ink materials. Hot day. Mr. Sidney S. Norton was buried at P.J. yesterday. Wm. H. Mott is said to be insane.

Sept. 1 Came down to Eastport.

" 2 Went to work in the net room.

" 3 Finished the piece. Wove 33 yds. of it.

" 15 Went up to Mr. Lee's this morning. Wrote deed and will for Aunt Minda.

Oct. 1 Walked over to Comsewogue this afternoon and visited Aunt Polly and her folks.

" 19 Wrote notices and sent to county papers concerning Historical Society meeting.

" 26 Went to Riverhead this afternoon and attended the permanent organization of the Suff. Co. Historical Society.

" 28 Attended funeral of Lester H. Davis.

Nov. 2 Attended election as poll clerk all day. The first election in Dist. No. 9, meeting at Mrs. Hutchinson.

" 15 Came to Eastport.

" 16 Went to work in the net room. Weaving.

" 17-20 Weaving net. Got out a piece 9 x 9, 1 yd. wide.

" 30 Got out a piece 6 x 9, 1 yd. wide.

Dec. 1 Left Eastport by morning train and came to M.I. by way of Brookhaven and Yaphank.

" 10 At work all day on J.H. Randall's books.

" 11 Wrote a summary history of L.I. for the Brooklyn Eagle Almanac this morning.

" 22 Charlie Howell brought type etc. which I bought of him for $ 5.00.

1887

Jan. 3 Alda and Bertie went home with C.E.Howell stage this afternoon.

" 7 Worked on J.H. Randall's books this afternoon.

" 8 - 21 Work on church records almost every day.

" 18 Ice along the roads prevents traveling. Scarcely a horse seen along road all day.

" 22 Went with Uncle Edw. part way to Port Jeff. this afternoon. I drove back and he walked rest of way. He is afraid to drive horse on account of ice.

" 31 Minnie is 12 years old today and invites her friends to celebrate her birthday by a candy pull his evening. About 20 are present.

Feb. 4 Made drawing of my Chart Board suitable for application for Letters Patent.

Feb. 10 Had my application for patent witnessed and sworn to and sent it complete with $ 15 fee to Washington by mail from Riverhead.

" 23 Came to Eastport via Southern R.R. Went to work in the net room.

Feb.23 - Mar.5 At work most of days in net room.

Mar. `5 Am paid for all my work on net up to date, rec'd $ 20.00

" 8 Return to M.I.

" 13 Bertha Dutcher is spending Sunday with Minnie.

" 17 Work part time at J.H. Randall's store.

" 23 Republican town convention at Coram nominate me again for Town Clerk.

" 25 At J.H. Randall's all day. He gets out into the store some this afternoon having been confined to his room about ten days.

Apr. 6 learned of my defeat in the race for Town Clerk. Hutrchinson's maj. 253.

" 15 N. Munsell's barn burns this forenoon.

" 22 Took train to Brooklyn, stayed all night with Mr. Preston. He wants me to go to Rhode Island to superintend the preparation of History of Newport County.

" 26 Came to Greenport, took dinner at Clark house then took "Manhansett" to New London, thence to Wickford, and steamer to Newport. Stopped at Perry House.

" 27 Took train to Bristol Ferry and Tiverton.

" 28 Met Mr. Cole who is to work with me on history.

May 1-8 In Newport

" 9 I have arranged with them to prepare the history of the County for $ 700.

" 11 Took steamer at night for New York.

June 14 Went to Riverhead this evening and attended the council meeting of the Suff. Co. Hist. Soc. Re-elected corresponding secretary.

July 3 Eddie Topping and his wife Lillie Hawkins came out and returned at night.

" 11 Helped Uncle Edw. get in his wheat, 5 loads.

" 13 Mercury 92. At work early and late weeding and hoeing (in my garden).

" 28 Attended the Bayles family picnic at Mr. Lee's. About 30 there, mostly women and children.

" 29 Funeral of Mrs. Davis (Mrs. Brevoort's mother).

Aug. 3 Edith Davis died this noon.

" 5 The "boys" broke ground digging the cellar under the church - Elbert Ruland, his son Eugene and Lewis Ritch. Part of the furnace arrived.

" 9 Mr. Reed begins the outside chimney of the church.

" 15 The men are putting furnace under the church.

" 19 & 20 Wrote all day for Cynthia Hutchinson on town assessment book. (continued for 7 days at $ 1 a day ).

" 20 Aunt Sally Norton died.

Oct. 6 Went down to Riverhead to County Fair, then to Greenport for night.

" 7 Took "Manhansett" to New London, then train to Willimantic and stopped all night at the Hooker House.

" 8 By rail to Providence, then by steamer "Richard Borden" down the bay to Bristol Ferry, thence stage to Portsmouth.

" 10-13 At work on records in Town Clerk's office.

" 17 Began teaching school at Middle District School with 10 scholars.

" 18 Rec'd word from L.E. Preston that they published Richmond County History. They always said that I was to be employed to read the proofs.

" 22 Went to Patchogue and saw John M. Price with reference to an insurance agency.

Nov. 3 Rec'd supplies and commission for the agency of Niagara Fire Insurance Co.

" 8 Acted as poll clerk at election. 142 votes from this district 91 - Republicans to 51 Democrats.

Dec. 31 Went to Riverhead. Made some purchases and sat for a photograph.

1888

Jan 3 Charlie, Alda and Bertie ( Woodruff ) came at night on way home from Port Jeff.

" 5 Uncle Edw. went home with Charlie & Alda.

" 10 Delivered 1st insurance policy for the Niagara to Cynthia Hutchinson today.

" 21 Went over to Port Jeff. by way of Patchogue stage from Coram. Nearly froze and returned afternoon same way.

" 25 School runs about ten scholars daily this week.

Feb 11 Finished writing an article on Early Whale fishing from L.I. Shore.

Mar 12 The wildest storm of the winter prevails, the wind increasing in fury in the afternoon. All night it blows with the greatest fury that I ever saw. Could not see the schoolhouse at all today, snow is so thick.

" 13 The roads are impassable, snowdrifts 8 ft. high being frequent. The air is full of snow.

Apr 3 Pleasant day for Town election. My name is on the ticket again for Town Clerk, but I do not make any effort, nor ask for any votes.

" 9 Went to Babylon to attend Teachers' Institute - first meeting by com. dists.

" 24 L. Ritch began plowing my garden this afternoon.

May 24 Went up to Sylvester Davis' with Uncle Edw. and James Swezey to help plant corn.

" 28 Received a gold headed cane presented by W.S. Pelletreau, some time since, it having just arrived here.

" 31 At work in J.H. Randall's store

June 8 Edwin Penney died at Eastport, 11 o'clock tonight.

" 11 Received $ 73 from W.W.Preston, balance due on Newport County History.

" 13 Mr. Elkanah Hawkins died at 3 o'clock this morning.

" 14 Answered W.W.Preston's letter asking for proposal for writing history of Windham County, Ct.

" 28 Started this morning for Ohio. Eunice Lee and I came to N.Y. via P.J. RR. Took St. Louis Express train for Sandusky via Hudson River & N.Y. Central. Fare $ 14.80 and $ 3.50 for berth in sleeping car.

" 29 Arrived Buffalo 6:15 and left at 5:40 by Central Time. Reached Sanduskyat 12:45. John and Julia meet us at the depot.

" 30 Rode out with Cousin Lottie this afternoon.

July 10 Went with quite a party of the Davis's to the islands. Put in Bay islands on steamer. Had picnic dinner.

" 11 Started about 5 o'clock this morning for Ornar (?) to visit Cousin Maria ( Brown ). About 26 miles over smooth level country.

" 12 All hands went over to where Susie Newman lives, about 10 miles further, near Chicago junction. There I took the B & O RR about 6 o'clock to M (?) where I took Lake Shore to Buffalo.

" 13 Arrived at Buffalo at 5 o'clock eastern time this morning. Visited Niagara Falls and started for Syracuse about 10 o'clock. Reached there at 3 and took train to Baldwinsville at 6:10. Found the Cloughs all right.

" 14 Visiting the Clough family which consists of Uncle Albert and his wife Eliza and Elizabeth and a hired man.

" 16 Took train arriving Albany at 4:00 o'clock. Took boat Dean Richmond down the river at 8 o'clock PM.

Aug 20 At work in my garden on sage.

" 23 Received my teacher's certificate for 2nd grade for the next two years.

" 27 Went to New York this AM via Patchogue. Made contact with W.W.Preston & Co. to prepare history of Windham Co., Ct.

Sept 3 Started for Connecticut to break ground for the History of Windham County. To Greenport, then steamer Manhanset to New London and rail to Willimantic.

" 4 Stopped last night at the Chaffee House, where I met Holmes, Loomis, Kindberg, and Westbrook, Preston's canvassers. Drove out today with Loomis to Scotland. Saw Miss Jane Gay Fuller. Crossed over to Chaplin and then back to Willimantic.

" 5 Stayed at Hooker house last night. Today went to Plainfield and Central Village. Put up at a historic old hotel, on the stoop of which I sat down in the chair in which Lafayette sat and wrote a letter when he was a guest of the house.

" 6 Went to Putnam, then to Thompson and arranged with Miss Ellen D. Larned to prepare town histories of Woodstock, Thompson, and Putnam. Came to Danielsonville at night.

" 7 Hired Mr. Worden the hotel keeper of the Attawangen House, to take me around with his team. Went through Pomfret and Abbington to Hampton Hill, thence back by way of Brooklyn. Took train at 9:11 tonight to New London, then steamer City of Worcester to N.Y.

Oct 1 Finished cutting up my corn after school.

" 5 Picked a basket of sage at night.

" 9 Mrs. Edward Oakes died.

" 12 Ham Smith died last night or this morning.

" 13 Mrs. Nancy ( widow of Samuel ) Randall died.

" 22 Aunt Jane Edwards died this morning, at Aunt Minda's.

Nov 17 Packed 228 lbs. sage in 5 barrels to send to Van Duzer & Co.

" 24 Went to East Setauket and got deed and paid $ 150 for house and lot of Miriam and Kate Hudson in Middle Island.

Dec 8 Sold the Miriam Hudson place to Willet S. Swezey. $ 165.

1889

Jan. 1 At Middle Island writing history of Windham County, Conn. and teaching at Middle District school (Dist.# 17 )

Feb. 21 Mr. David Thompson died

Mar. 9 began boarding at J.H.Randall's

Apr, 5 start vacation. Van Horn & Ruland are trustees

July 9 special meeting about union of Districts 16 & 17

Oct. 7 began school in Dist. # 16 with 17 scholars

Nov. 10 George Ritch died

1890

Jan. In Middle Island writing history of Providence and teaching in Dist.# 16

Feb. 28 Lester Davis died at Coram

Mar. 10 Oren Mott died

Apr. 1 rec'd notice of death of publisher Willis W. Preston

24 Mrs. Elkanah Hawkins died

May 19 Uncle Edward went to bed - sick

May 30 Uncle Edward died

June 21 was auctioneer for E.A.Swezey estate

Aug. 5 Mrs. Van Horn died

Nov. 9 funeral of Augustus Edwards

" 13 " " Harriet Edwards of Swezeytown

" 16 " " Mrs. Charry Petty

" 21 " " Mrs. Rebecca Swezey

" 27 Thanksgiving dinner at J.H. Randall

Dec. 22 Capt. Wm. H. Brown died at Artist lake

BAYLES DIARIES AND MEMORIES

Selected passages from diaries of Richard M. Bayles

from 1872-1930

with

Some memories of Donald M. Bayles

written by,

Donald M. Bayles

in the year 2000

1891

Building house on land bought from G.W. Ritch

Apr. 26 Aunt Minda Lee died

June 17 Joseph Davis shot himself at Yaphank

" 19 Mrs. Henry Hutchinson died (Katie)

" 26 in store for J.H.Randall

Aug. 27 at work in J.H.Randall store. E. Pfeiffer is sick

Sept. 1&2 drove grocery wagon

Oct. 20 Aunt Huldah Robinson (Eastport) died

Dec. 2 Mrs. Nancy King died (mother of Lydia Randall )

1892

Jan. 1 Alone in Middle Island ( old homestead ) and teaching in Dist. # 16. Have house under way.

" 25 Clifford Randall died

Mar. 18 Everett Swezey died

" 23 started with J.H.Randall for the South

" 29 in Atlanta. J.H.Randall left for Macon

" 30 to Chattanooga and Knoxville

Apr. 2 reached home

Aug. 29 tending store for E. Pfeiffer. His clerk Jotham Swezey is sick.

Sept. 8 sold my house and lot to James A. Brevoort

Oct. 17 began teaching Dist. # 16 with 18 pupils

Dec. 2 Oscar Viertel taken insane this AM. Took him to County house.

" 6 Went down to J.H.Randall's to board tonight

" 29 bought lot of Henry Hutchinson. 1/2 acre.

" 31 began building office on hill lot.

1893

Jan 1 Teaching in No. 16 at Middle Island but boarding at J.H. Randall's.

"11-13 One pupil at school.

" 24 S.E.R. and a man are at the old place pressing straw.

Feb. 4 Florence Rowland came to stay with Lydia while J.H. Randall is gone to Florida. I met her for the first time.

" 7 J.H. Randall starts for Florida.

" 9 German photographer takes view of L.K.R.'s house.

Mar. 7 Charlie Edwards began to work on roof of my office.

" 20 Mrs. Carrie Davis (Wm's wife ) died this morning.

" 29 Took a walk down in the woods with Florence.

Apr. 9 Sunday school organized for the year. J.H. Randall elected supt. as my succesor.

July 13 Florence and I were married today at 11 o'clock AM at Chas. Jones's. by Rev. E.A, Hazeltine. Present; Mrs. Jones, Mrs. Rowland, Charlie and Mattie Jones, Eva, Herbert, Mrs. Hazeltine, Eliza Ann, Alda, Margie, Jo. & Lydia Randall, Carrie Millard, Edna Randall, Bertha Woodruff.

" 31 Broke ground for the foundation of a house on my hill lot, 20 x 24.

Aug 7 Mr. Reed finished cistern.

Sept-Nov. ( entries in diary are very sparse )

Nov 25 Florence and I went to Riverhead and bought a stove.

Dec 2 Went with Florence to Millers Place and got a load of furniture.

" 6 Chas. Woodruff came up and told us of the death of Margie yesterday. Allie went home with him.

" 14 We moved some furniture up to office this morning. I slept in the office for first time tonight.

" 15 I went to Mt. Sinai to see Everett Rowland who is very sick.

1894

Jan. 3 J.H.Randall & Lydia leave for Florida

Jan. 8 letters from J.H.Randall & Lydia from Jacksonville

18 Everett Rowland died - Mt. Sinai

Feb. 16 funeral of Mrs. Polly Randall

17 rec'd tripod and telescope from Gurley - price $ 13

Mar. 5 rec'd word that Lydia Randall had died (in Florida)

9 visit Uncle Elisha King

June 3 new church members - includes 4 Randalls

Aug. 7 tending store for E.P.

13 Henry P. Hutchinson died

1895

Jan 1 On the hill at Middle Island, Florence and I are living in our new house, having moved into it a few weeks since.

Feb 4 Our first born son commenced to breathe and to cry at about 11:50 o'clock to-night. Dr. Baker attended. Our son is named Thomas Richard. Mama Rowland is with us.

" 9 A blizzard is in progress for the 2 or 3 days past. General over the country coldest weather for many years, with fierce winds.

Mar 3 5 members at church admitted: Mrs. Wm.L. Davis, Ed. Pfeiffer, Marcus Homan, Ernest Rand, Orville Randall.

" 25 Went over to Patchogue with Willet Swezey to survey his farm.

May 30 Let pasture about King place house and barn to Ed. Swezey for $ 2.50.

June 3 Newpaper clipping about death of Mrs. Charity Bayless Davis, widow of the late David Davis in Sandusky on June 1. Age 88 yrs. 6 mos. Her husband died in 1879.

" 11 Attended funeral of Mr. John Risley, who died June 9th.

" 20-22 In store for J.H.R.

" 27 On wagon to Selden for J.H.R.

Aug 8 Mrs. Brevoort died this forenoon.

" 20-29 Drove J.H.R.'s wagon.

Sept 12 Brevoort left this morning for his new home in Dutchess County.

" 24 Saw Edel Raynor and his wife (Speonk) about taking Anna Hutchinson. They are favorable.

Oct 18 Went to Miller Place and consulted heirs about selling King place.

Nov 14 Appraisers, R.F. Hawkins, Philetus Phillips, Jos. Hurtin appraised; north side of road $1,200; south side $300. Rental N. side $30, S. side $10. ( the H. Hutchinson place )

Nov. 25 J.H.Randall starts for Florida after marrying Alice R. Davis

Dec. 12 Will Still moved from H.P.H. house

1896

Jan. 29 Aunt Catherine died at Stony Brook ( 2nd wife of Edward Swezey )

Feb. 1 Tillotson died last night a Coram

" 10 In Riverhead regarding adoption of Alice Hutchinson by Frank J. Tuthill & wife.

Mar. 7 Sale of H.P.H. ( Hutchinson ) estate

" 26 Was nominated for Town Clerk

Apr. 13 Adoption of Anna Hutchinson by Raynors of Speonk

" 17 House burns on Hiram Edwards place in Ridge

May 6 Mrs. Lewis R. Overton buried, age 90

" 18 Began building extension to back kitchen

June 27 Funeral of Uncle Wm. Lee

Aug. 6 Delivered deed of King farm to Thos. J. Dixon

Sept. 18 Received new transit

NOTE: Diary entries for next two years are very skimpy

1897

Mar 15-18 Surveying for W.P. Dewey Jr. back of Brookhaven.

" 22-23 Surveying for S.E. Randall at Ridge.

May 22 Made appraisal af Jas. Swezey est. with T.B. Lee.

June 5 Conducted auction for Willet S. Swezey, administrator of Jas. Swezey Est. at Swezeytown this PM.

July 1 Began surveying what is called the "Yankee Lot". ( at Calverton - 3 weeks )

Aug. 13 Helped raise J.H.Randall's barn

Oct 19 Served on jury in Justice Randall's Court this PM.

Dec 23 Sent for Dr. Swezey at night. Son born about 9 o'clock PM.

1898

Apr 30 Surveying woodland for Henry Bosch and Henry Megerle.

July 23 marriage of Edward Pfeiffer and Lizzie M. Swezey

Oct 29 Attended auction sale of movables at Mulford Homan's. Acted as auctioneer.

Nov 8 Attended election as pole clerk. 142 votes cast in 7th District.

Dec. 13 J.H.Randall and wife start for Florida.

NOTE: Years 1899 - 1902 are all in one small notebook.

1899

Jan 9 Went up to Pine Lawn to begin surveying for Hagerman. It is a cemetery that is to be laid out. Hagerman appears on the noon train.

" 17 Went to West Deer Park Sta. and to the tract, surveying Section 1.

" 27 Miss Amelia Smith died.

Feb 14 Roads blocked. About 2 ft. of snow on the ground. No mail or RR. trains.

Mar 6 Began work on my greenhouse on front of horse shed.

" 16 Went up to Pine Lawn surveying.

Apr 3 At Pine Lawn.

" 13 Surveying for Com. of Highways at Artist Lake - taking levels.

May 6-31 At Pinelawn.

July 31 Began surveying for Wm. H. Moffitt near Brentwood.

Aug 26 Went to BayShore surveying for Moffitt. Finished.

" 30 Attended funeral of Mrs. Elbert Swezey this PM.

Sept 11 At Yaphank the blacksmith shop of Alexander Ivison burned to ground Saturday night and also adjoining wheelwright shop of Alfred Ackerly

" 18 working again on Greenlawn Cemetery

Nov. 2 Aunt Jennet Brush died

" 23 J.H. Randall and wife start for Florida

1900

Jan. 5 Dixon's barn burned this morning

" 16 house of J Orlando Randall estate burned at 1 PM

" 24 daughter ( Beatrice ) born to Mrs. Katie Ritch

Feb. 16 began putting up greenhouse

May 8 Mrs. Louisa Overton died this evening ( at Helme's)

June 23 Wm. S. Swezey died this morning

" 29 Edgar G. Swezey died at 3 AM

July 2 Mrs. L.H.Davis died this morning

" 19 Mrs. McMullen died in Daniel Petty house at 7 AM

Aug. 25 Mrs. Charles J. Randall died AM

Sept. 25 James A. Randall died last night

Dec. 13 J.H. Randall and wife start for Florida

" 22 Nathaniel Nelson Munsell died this PM

" 25 The 4 of us took dinner at Mrs. E.G. Swezey's. Miss Emma Norton, E.Pfeiffer and Lizzie were there and Flora served.

1901

Mar. 6 M.I. Post office changed to Pfeiffer's store

Apr. 9 J.H. Randall came home

May 13 Received word that Alda Swezey Woodruff of Bellport died last night ( Richard's cousin )

Sept. 6 Pres. McKinley shot at Buffalo

" 30 James Smith died at Longwood

Oct. 2 Jacob E. Mott died in his farm wagon returning from Bellport

Dec. 3 J.H. Randall and wife start for Florida

1902

Mar. 14 Geo. W. Fry died at Rocky Point

Apr. 5 J.H. Randall and wife return from Florida

June 23 To 49 Chambers St., N.Y. to complete inventory of Fry estate. Expenses $ 3.75.

July 17 Went to P.J. and finished work on inventory G.W.Fry Est. This makes 5 days and $6 disbursements on this matter.

Sept. 17 Ogden Van Horn died on 15th.

Oct 24 Surveying for Ch. J. Randall.

Nov 4 As poll clerk at election all day.

" 15 Surveying for John G. Randall at Ridge

" 22 Auctioneer for Chas. J. Randall.

Dec 10 Completed map for J.G. Randall and sent it to him .

1903

Jan. Tax collector sits at Pfeiffer's - paid taxes

Apr. J.H. Randall and Alice arrive home

Apr. 18 Parish meeting makes call for Rev. Norris

Apr. 19 Rev. Norris in pulpit

Apr. 23 Auction for John C. Fry estate at the lake

June 4 Arthur W. Viertel and Miss Constance B. Barker married last night

Atmosphere is filled with smoke. Unusual phenomenon

June 9 I. Freeman married Geo. Williams Seaman at Artist lake

June 13 Conducted auction of household goods for Samuel S. Davis, Coram

July 9 Rec'd word of death of John H. Hudson on July 7

July 12 Funeral of Alice Ashton

Aug. 8 Went to Setauket to appraise J. Hudson estate (at Norwood)

Aug. 13 Paid E.P. for horse work, etc. to date

Aug. 16 Florence Smith died

Aug. 22 Went to Gerard's, Yaphank and bought wagon load of lumber

Aug. 25 Terrific wind storm about 4 PM blew off apples and pears. Had to light lamp.

Sept. 27 Funeral of Sylvester Davis

Nov. 18 Ordered 10 bu. of potatoes of V.F.Edwards at 70 cents

1904

Feb. 7 J.H.Randall house burned down at 4 AM

Apr. 7 J.H. Randall and Alice arrive

May 16 J.H. Randall starts new house

June 24 J.H. Randall and wife begin housekeeping in new kitchen

June 28 Special school meeting to vote on new school house - 21 no - 5 yes

July 25 Mrs. Minerva Hutchinson died last night

Oct. 26 Lizzie Pfeiffer died last night

Oct. 29 First ride in automobile

Nov. 26 Telephone poles set to top of hill

Dec. 21 Telephone wires led to house

1905

Jan 4 A tempestuous night last night and a small blizzard is upon us.

" 16 Telephone installed in house

" 25 Blizzard & over week of sub-zero weather. Trains and mail do not get through for two days.

Feb 4 Measured lots for Leon Edwards and Geo. Albin and made deeds.

" 18 W.W. Ruland called for his sister B. whose house at Mt. Sinai & some furniture burned yesterday AM.

Mar 8 Attended meet;ing of the Town Board at Pat;chog;ue.

" 9 Planted tomato and pepper seeds in greenhouse.

" 13 Ed. Swezey & Co. are sawing wood for us. Finished about 8 cords.

" 15 Went to Patchogue to see the Town Rep. convention. Got my name before the convention but lost the nomination for Justice.

" 17 Howard Swezey & wife called and made payment $250 on E.A.S. farm. ( Richard's Uncle Edward A. Swezey )

" 20 Made papers - mortgages , etc. for Howard Swezey to Eliza Ann Randall (dau. of E.A.S.) and to Wm.H. Fry. Howard & wife executed them and I delivered deed of the E.A. Swezey farm to him this PM.

Apr 1 Surveyed north line of Mrs. Elizabeth Randall's farm at the Ridge.

" 10 Wallace Ruland executes his constable bond.

" 11 C.J.R. with man to look at Mrs. A.E.S. place. ( Ann Swezey place )

" 12 Mrs. Elmira Swezey called and settled about pond case.

May 1 Fire starts near Miller Place RR. bridge south side of track and runs before a fierce N.W. gale, down to Ridge. Burned 300 cords wood of Gilbert Randall's. We go PM north to fight it. Fire crosses Whiskey Rd. east of Ruland's, comes down east of Bailey Rd. to Lake, crossing Country Rd. east of Foxe's.

" 2 Fires are burning in different directions.

" 15 Dug 1,000 strawberry plants this forenoon.

" 24 Spraying J.H.R.'s apple trees.

" 26 Sprayed apple trees for Mrs. A.E.S. 3 hrs. this AM.

" 27 Mrs. Amelia Deborah Swezey Borland died Thursday the 25th AM.

June 1 Spent most of day on hen coops for Thomas's chickens, which have hatched.

" 24 At Patchogue, witness on Phillips vs. Vanderbilt case before Judge Smith.

" 27 E. Webster Overton died.

July 4 Fixed up the boys' "fort" and hoed strawberries. Had quite a party in the evening at the display of fireworks.

" 6 Hewlett Mott cultivated gardens & plowed peach tree patch.

" 8 At Patchogue on case of Phillips vs. Vanderbilt.

" 16 Fry's horse ran away 10 o'clock PM past here.

" 26 Went to Rononkoma this AM . Surveyed farm of Chas. W. Hawkins Est.

Aug 24 Went to Millers Place on Sunday School picnic with the party. 12 wagons, 83 persons.

" 29 Florence and the boys go to P. Jeff. to make a visit among north side friends for a few days.

Sept 5 Went to Farmingville surveying land for John Domercq. L.E.R. with me.

" 11 School begins, C.D.Lighthall teacher.

" 27 Went to Miller Place to funeral of Uncle Joseph N. King.

Oct 11 Went to survey land of Ham Smith Estate, West Yaphank. They talk of selling for the site of a Sanitorium.

" 16 Finished my map and mailed it to John Roe Smith.

Nov 7 Served as Poll Clerk at Election. 107 votes at the poll: 62 R. 41 D., 2 Pro., 1 Soc.

" 20 walked to J.G. Randall's new house to see about insurance.

Dec. 6 J.H.Randall and Alice start for Florida

1906

Jan. 9 T. Dixon's house and contents burned 11 AM. Mrs. Dixon burned to death.

17 made map for Miller of Mrs. S. land

26 Mama Rowland died

Feb. 4 to Riverhead to search title Ann E. Swezey farm

22 Peter Wenner concluded deal for A.E.Swezey farm

Mar. 1 Mr. Miller arrives on A.E.Swezey place

2 Mrs. Bosch's house burned 3 AM

8 ran auction of Mrs. Ann E. Swezey farm, implements, etc.

Apr. J.H.Randall and wife came home

21 Sidney H. Ritch died at Passaic, N.J.

22 sat with Shep Ritch who is sick with pneumonia

May 4 Samuel W. Silkworth takes title to 60 acre Edwin Hutchinson farm

14 earth shock at 4:30 AM is explosion of powder magazine at Bridgeport

Aug 2 Went to Selden this PM and examined organ for J.F.Byrne in R.C. church. Rec'd letter from Mrs. Graham acknowledging receipt of check in conclusion of farm deal. ( I believe that the old Bayles homestead on Mt. Sinai Rd. had been sold to Graham )

" 7 Elected trustee at sch. meeting this evening.

" 15 The S.S. picnic is appointed to Sound at Woodhull's Landing. Almost 80 on the beach. Pleasant day.

" 16 Went to Riverhead on Robert F. Hawkin's search for C.E. Howell.

" 28 L.E.R. went to M.P. for wood twice. Finished with the 2nd load in evening.

Sept 15 I gathered 19 baskets peaches.

" 6&7 Surveying at S.H.Miller's ( Mt. Sinai ). H.B. & horse, & Thos. with me. (H.B.=Herb. Benjamin)

" 12 Surveying for Thos. J. Smith. H.B. & horse & Thos. ( Thos. was 11 yrs. old )

" 15 Surveyed C.E. Howell west line AM and ran an auction for him PM.

" 23 Mr. Johnston comes to teach school, arrives just at dinner time.

" 24 School begins.

Oct 18 Alice Randall returns home.

" 28 Flora (Dixon) was home yesterday helping Mrs. S. (Ann Swezey ) move into her new house.

Nov 1 We put up the school house bell this AM.

" 5 G.B. Topping 1/2 day slaked lime preparing to build foundation for new bedroom.

" 6 Served as poll clerk. G.B.T. put up bedroom foundation.

" 9-11 At work on (new) poultry house.

" 27-30 Roswell Edwards, L.E. Ritch, & G.B. Topping working on new bedroom.

Dec 4 J.H.R. & Alice leave home for Florida this PM.

" 5 Ed. Swezey sawed my wood - 5 1/4 cords. Paid him $ 4.00.

" 6 Rec'd check for $45 from Eagle for Almanac work.

" 8 Went to Yaphank to survey Krabbe-Iveson line and make deed. L.E.R. and horse.

" 11 Mrs. Elizabeth Norton died, age 91.

1907

Mar. 23 Frank M. Edwards died at Swezeytown

Mar. 30 Mary T. Davis died

Apr. 1 J.H. Randall and wife arrive home

May 12 Funeral of L. Irving Overton at Coram

July 28 E. Pfeiffer and Jennie Overton married last night

Aug. 6 Elected trustee at school meeting

Sept. 9 Funeral of Shepard Ritch

Sept. 14 Prosser's barns burned this AM

Oct. 6 Elsie Viertel in city for her wedding

Oct. 15 Joseph R. Rowland died ( Florence's father )

Nov. 5 Served as poll clerk at election. 77 votes

Dec. 9 J.H. Randall and wife leave for Florida

Dec. 25 Tended store for E.P.

1908

February Working on midway building (connecting office and shop)

Jan.-Mar. Herb. Benjamin working on office extension and back kitchen.

Apr. 6 J.H.Randall and wife arrive (from Fla.)

Aug. 4 Elected school trustee for 4th year

Aug. 19 paid H.B. $ 2.75 for him and his team for day to survey in Rocky Point

Sept. 8 Alonzo P. Homan died at Yaphank

" 11 Ethel Swezey Edwards died ( wife of Victor Edwards )

" 15 funeral of Victor Edwards little boy who died after his mother's funeral

Nov. 3 poll clerk at Election - 166 votes

" 28 paid Ed. Swezey 65 cents a cord for sawing wood

J.H.Randall leaves for Fla.

1909

Jan 20 Went to Riverhead to complete search for Dennis Murphy.

" 23 Nehemiah B. Overton died at Yaphank this AM.

" 25 Surveyed J.J. Edwards 10 acre tract near Whiskey Rd. this PM. L.E.R. helped.

" 29 Went to Patchogue. Had Herb. Benjamin's horse. Paid him $ 1.25 for it.

Feb 4-6 Working on Selden cemetery map.

" 13 With Albert's help printed 6,500 B.Bailey auction of horses, wagons, etc. at Hagen's.

" 15-19 Printing Young's seed envelopes. 25M.

" 22 Attended funeral of Mrs. Louise Still PM.

Mar 27 Worked on a new cold frame between office and shop steps.

Apr 1 Surveyed E. Hutchinson line with J.H.R. - also my west line.

" 2 J.H.R. and wife arrive from Florida.

" 6 At Town election as poll clerk. 165 ballots cast. Rep. ticket defeated.

" 13 Setting strawberries.

May 4 Gardening. Sowed peas, sage, spinach, set onions, planted corn.

" 6 I.H. Smith plowed & harrowed peach orchard. Paid him $2.00.

" 13 Mr. Norris called to N.Y. by sickness of his daughter Katharika (sp.?). She died this evening.

" 18 Went to New York to consult with W.T. Cox about Dyer's and George's Necks, by his request. L.E.Ritch went with me. Isaac Robbins died at Yaphank 12 o'clock last night.

" 20 Ed. Swezey cultivated garden. Paid him 75 cts,

June 11 Wrote G.B.Topping'swill.

July 7 Made map of Sch.Dist. 16.

" 8 Surveying Morris farm AM.

" 11 Discovered some aimal is eating our chickens.

" 13 Found 'coon that has been after chickens.

" 15 Went to Selden this AM to repair organ in R.C. church. Had Pfeiffer's rig.

" 17 Surveying for Roswell Davis at Yaphank on Gerard Road towardSouth Haven.

Aug 1 Went up to cemetery to burial of Mrs. Elizabeth Smith ( wid. of Ham ) PM.

" 3 Sch.eeting elects me trustee again.

" 10 Went to Riverhead on search Daniel Edwards title.

Sept 11 Gathered peaches most of day.

" 20 School begins with Carrie Thompson teacher.

" 23 Thos. goes to Brookhaven on his wheel after school to distribute catalogues. Returns wet and muddy.

" 25 Thos. went with his catalogues to P.J., Mt.Sinai, and Miller Place. Put out 145. Wallie Mott drove for him. Paid him $2.50.

Oct 4 Thos. goes with me to Riverhead, I work in Clerk's Office till evening. At evening we take train to Greenport. Stop at Clark House, and attend moving picture show in evening.

" 5 We take boat at 8:40 AM to New London. PM take trolley to Norwich, thence to Willimantic. Arrive there about 4:30. After supper take R.R. train to Putnam. Stopped at "Putnam Inn", which was once Bugbee House.

" 6 We took trolley at 7:30 down the Quinneboug Valley and trolleyed all the way to New London. Arrive little past 11. Look around city and at 1 PM took steamer "Manhansett" to Greenport. At 7:05 took train up to Riverhead and stopped there the night.

" 7 Thos. takes 8 o'clock train for Yaphank. I work in Clk's office on Bartlett's pond search same as Monday, until train time PM.

" 12 Sch. has vacation today "Columbus Day" a new holiday.

" 15 Frederick Ehlers Sr. died this PM.

" 18 At work writing my abstract of Bartletts pond title. Worked on it till 10:30 PM.

" 30 J.H.R. brought 9 3/4 cords wood. Paid him $ 2.30 a cord.

Nov 2 At election as poll clerk - 76 votes.

" 4 W.C.T.U. meeting at our house PM.

" 12 Cynthia Hutchinson is found dead in her house this AM.

" 15 Went to Riverhead to arrange for proof of Miss Htcinson's willl. I am Executor.

" 16 Went to Patchogue. Met with Trustees about Bartlett's Pond title. Ed. Swezey drove.

Dec 4 J.H.R. and wife start this PM for Florida, to stop in and about city till Wednesday. (Dec. 8)

" 30 Lumber came from Fanning for new building.

1910

Feb. 7 coldest day of winter -2 degrees

" 19 mailed inventory of Cynthia Hutchinson estate to Surrogate

" 26 surveying E.Pfeiffer farm paid L.E.Ritch $ 3.00 for 2 days

Mar. 2 odered bicycles

Apr. 10 J.H. Randall and wife arrived home

" 14 Hutchinson brothers go to C. H. house to look over things left them by Cynthia

May 17 finished setting Miss C. Hutchinson monument. Funeral of Edna Randall Davis at Mt.Sinai.

" 24 Albert went to P.J. on his wheel with Allie Ritch

" 25 Hewlett Mott harrowed and plowed in peach orchard. Paid him $ 2.00

" 27 saw comet first time this morning

June 2 W.R. Fry signed contracts for C. Hutchinson farm

" 4 paid Ed Swezey $ 2.00 to drive to P.J.

July 2 went by auto to Patchogue. Paid Harold Davis $ 2.00

" 13 went to Riverhead. Had M. Van Horn's pony

" 23 making map of C.H. farm

" 24 funerals of Samuel Davis and Mrs. Sarah (Floyd) Edwards.

" 31 went to see ruins of store of R. Davis which burned down about 5 AM

Aug. 2 elected school trustee again

Sept. 5 Thos. and Everett Topping went to Millers Place with peaches

" 6 " " " " Moriches with peaches

" 7 " " " " East Moriches with peaches

" 15 Mrs. Hilliker began teaching in school

" 16 went to Riverhead fair with J.H. Randall Florence, Minerva H., and Mr. Norris also.

" 22 surveying 21 acre tract of C.H. farm

" 30 writing paper "Motive and Method" for C.E. Convention at Eastport Oct.5

Oct. 24 begin work on hen house in orchard

" 27 Johnstone with bi-plane lands in Dr. Van Horn's lot

" 28 many persons at Van Horn's to see Johnstone start flight back to Belmont Park at 1:15 PM.

" 31 begin setting foundation for barn

Nov. 1 John Davis and Lewis Ritch helping frame barn

" 5 put up booths in office for election

" 6 Mrs. Smith Still died

" 8 election at office. I am poll clerk as usual

" 11 Thos. and Albert go to Patchogue and back on wheels

" 26 Thos. went to Brooklyn to enter Kissick's Business School. Montague (Hutchinson) starts with him. Is to go to Cornell for course in poultry raising.

Dec. 5 J.H. Randall and wife leave for Florida

" 7 a foot or more of snow fell

" 28 burial of Capt. Henry Smith

1911

Jan. 15 funeral of Uncle Thomas Bayles at P.J.

Feb. 24 news that Percy Davis was killed in Seattle last night

Mar. 6 J. Percy Davis funeral who was shot

" 10 W.R. Fry died last night

" 12 Thomas, Albert, Lillian Lee, Myrtle Ruland, Martha Smith rec'd into church

" 14 heard that Minerva H. died last night in Willard Parker Hospital in N.Y.

" 30 mailed check tlo Elbert Hutchinson $ 368.33 balance, one third proceeds for C. HUTCHINSON farm.

Apr. 1 J.H. Randall and Alice come home

" 27 J. Butler plowing all day, one horse

May 2 made school trustee again

June 15 surveying north line of Dist. No. 13

NOTE: Most of July spent working on school district maps

July 13 J.H. Randall and wife hurt in auto smash

" 30 Miller family from Freeport at church in 2 autos

Aug. 13 Thos. goes with E.P. (Edward Pfeiffer) on evening train to Brooklyn to go to work in Bread making office and store

Sept. 7 gathered 110 baskets of peaches

" 11 school begins with Miss Martha Rakow as teacher

" 21 many autos pass going to fair at Riverhead. Atwood flies in aeroplane and landed at County farm, Yaphank, gasoline failing

Nov. 7 poll clerk at election in office

" 8 John Murray died last night at Mrs. I.H. Smith's

" 27 J.H.Randall and wife left for Florida

Dec. 11 Willett S. Swezey killed in N.Y. by strikes

" 18 Mrs. Wm. L. Davis died

1912

Jan.. 22 Thos. begins work for E.Pfeiffer in store

Feb. 1 completed school district maps

" 11 Thos. is in P. J. to order auto

" 26 primary election in office - 7 votes

Mar. 30 J.H. Randall and Allice arrive at noon

Apr. 4 Thos. goes to P. J. and brings auto home

" 5 Thos. exercises auto most of the day

Hutchinsons come home from winter in Bridgeport

May 7 school district meeting. Elected trustee again

" 24 heavy thunderstorms 7 to 8 PM. Higgins home struck and burned

June 5 attended funeral of Mr. Higbie

" 11 surveying line between J.H. Randall and C.S. Miller

" 19 Albert finishes exams at Patchogue

" 21 took first lesson steering auto

July 7 Robert S. Overton died at Shoreham

" 25 Mrs. Benj. Hallock died

Ice cream social at parsonage

Aug. 1 to picnic on Sound Ave. with John Wells family

Sept. 18 boys go to Riverhead Fair

Oct.18&19 registration board occupies office

" 22 Thos. goes to N.Y. to buy an auto

" 26 all day at school with H. Randall arranging stove, etc.

Nov. 5 election held in office. I serve as poll clerk. 141 votes.

" 22 Uncle Elisha King died at Kings Park Hospital

" 28 Harold Davis and Inez Swezey married

Dec. 2 J.H. Randall and wife start for Florida.

" 21 Paid Town tax $ 10.73

1913

Jan. 1 Thos. came from P.J. with his auto and returned with the red one.

" 6 Benjamin Davis died

" 27 burial of John R. Dayton

Feb. 2 Daniel H. Buckingham died

" 6 Sam Dare died at Selden

" 12 Albert tries his ice boat

" 15 Little girl born at J. Butler's

Mar. 24 Thos. begins telegraph lessons at Shoreham

" 25 Auction at John Butler's PM. Small company

" 29 J.H. Randall and wife arrived home

Apr. 8 Thos. went to Bridgeport and traded his auto for a motorcycle

" 10 Thos. sells his autocycle to Phil Still

May 6 school meeting. Am relieved of trustee's office after 8 years

" 16 survey line at Ridge between R.F. Randall and G.O.R.

June 5 burial of Minerva Davis

" 30 funeral of Mrs. Mary F. Edwards ( widow of Orlando )

July 15 Thos. goes on picnic to Savin Rock

Johnnie Rowland came from Pueblo, Col.

" 22 Chas. J. Randall died last night at his home in Woodhaven

Sept. 3 sold eggs for 40 cents and peaches for 50

" 11 Albert goes on truck with Miller to Amityville with peaches

" 18 went to Riverhead Fair with Albert and auto

" 20 Thos. went to city and came home with Johnnie

" 23 Johnnie goes to N.Y. to hospital. Thos. goes with him.

" 28 Johnnie came on evening train

Oct. 9 John H. Rowland died at 11:45 PM. Florence and I alone were watching him

" 11 Registration Board meets in office

" 12 funeral of brother John Rowland at the house

Burial at Cedar Hill Cemetery. Fanny Rowland came from Brooklyn

" 15 Thos. and I went to C. Moriches to poultry auction. Did no business. Had auto collision coming away and cut gash in my chin and broke windshield.

" 18 Mr. Tuthill calls to see Thomas about job as clerk in New Suffolk

Nov. 4 election in office

" 25 funeral of Mrs. Julia Gordon, wife of Edw. Gordon at Geo. Prosser's

" 29 J.H. Randall and Alice start for Fla.

Dec. 6 made search of Dixon property since 1896 at Riverhead

" 22 paid Town tax of $ 13.09

" 29 Albert Ackerly died

BAYLES DIARIES 1920-1930

1920

July 11 F.& Thos. start this morning soon after 6 o'clock to go with Ford to Tivoli to wedding of Wilford Still at 5 PM. Will Still goes with them and they pick up Carrie (Thompson, Will's sister-in-law) and Carolyn at S'tn. (Smithtown?).

" 12 Folks return from wedding at about 10 o'clock PM having come via Gr. Barrington, Torrington & Bridgeport.

" 24 Mrs. Elnora Benjamin died this evening at Longwood. (Gertrude's step-mother)

" 28 Went to Brentwood surveying lots 523 and 529 that I surveyed 21 yrs. ago. Albert & Will Still went with me.

Aug 16 Printing all day. Albert works on Harry Still's auto.

" 27 A. & I work on Yaphank sch. dist. map. Sophie Butler and Fred Zimmer called and made transfer of Brevoort place PM for $ 2,000.

" 28 I work on maps of Dist. 18 & finish them. T. goes fishing after coming home from Camp.

Sep 11 A., T. & G. start for auto trip through Conn. & Mass, via Bridgeport.

" 12 F.& I slept in bungalow with Elwyn last night.

" 14 Primary election is held in my new annex building. I am an inspector.

" 25 Surveyed Hagen's farm in part.

Oct. 26 A. helps A. Risley overhaul his auto here - they work till after dark.

Nov. 2 Inspector of election in my rear office. Presidential. 206 votes.

Register in October 1920:

Rudolf Wittschack

Angeline T. Smith

Henry Elfers (sp.?)

Percy Still

Lloyd F. Worley

Beulah H. Worley

Charlotte P. Swezey

Grace M. Ayvad

George C. Dickerson

Wm. H. Wycherly

Willard Downs

" 6 Albert works on Adam Bubb's truck.

" 9 Mr. & Mrs. J.H. Randall start for Florida.

" 17 T. is late home, helping get 41st Div., 600 men, started for Camp Meade, Md.

Dec 10 Printing - A. helping. Rec'd word that Hattie Hulse died yesterday at Bellport.

" 16 Albert works shingling on Miller's old house.

1921

Jan. 7 Albert & I work setting frame of extension of office front. (This would add 4 or 5 ft. to the front)

" 22 Surveyed Randall land.

Apr 16 Albert goes to Patch. AM. witness for Tony (prob. Zebrowski) citizenship.

May 25 Mrs. Morrison finishes her term of school and goes home this afternoon.

June 1 Went to P.J. late PM attend 50th anniversary wedding S.S. & E.A. Randall (Richard's cousin Eliza Ann).

" 16 Edward H. Gordon died this PM.

" 18 Funeral of E.H. Gordon at Frank Davis, Swezeytown. Albert drives car for Nellie Prosser and repairs truck for A. Bubb.

July 17 Folks go to Bay Shore and motor boat ride to Fire Island wth Royal Rowland.

" 18 Albert and I went with side car in the hills surveying Daly land all day.

" 20 A. and I surveyed Edw. H. Smith land for Ch. H. Intemann all day.

" 25 A. went to Patch. to work in Motor Mart Garage.

Aug 2 Special school meeting at evening votes 18 to 10 to favor building new school house.

" 11 Surveyed point land at Coram for Salvatore Covati.

" 18 Hattie Davis died at Coram.

" 19 A. quits garage.

" 22 Albert and I survey land for E.H. Smith - 28 acres at Coram.

" 23 Surveyed land for Wm. H. Wycherly this forenoon.

Sept 1 Lumber from Camp is going by in great loads - heavy trucks, smaller trucks, and a few teams.

" 14 J.H. Randall died this morning.

Oct 18 Went to Yaphank PM to attend 50th anniversary of Yaphank Church organization.

Nov 7 Printing all day. A. helps on the press.

" 8 Election inspector - Polled 225 votes.

Register in October 1921: (I believe these are the new registrants)

Kazmir Szuster, M.I.

Chas. Hallock, Coram

Meta Wittschack ( w. of Wm.)

Joseph F. Mazeski

Ernest Chenel

Emily Chenel

Fanny Szuster

" 15 Albert begins work on RR buildings at Camp.

" 23 Surveying for Grant Smith, Coram on old Hammond farm. (on Mill Rd., I think)

" 26 Kaminski and Flora Dixon sign their transfer of farm. (the former King farm opp. church)

Dec. 2 Funeral of Rhoda Swezey.

" 18 R.F. Hawkins died at Yaphank.

" 20 A. is laid off tonight from his Camp job.

1922

Jan 6 Albert works on cars for Mageski and Mrs. Dixon.

" 10 Thos.. is moved into car for an office. Freight house is being demolished.

" 14 Fire at Camp burns the hospital buildings about 18 or 20 - from 9:30 to 1:30 tonight.

" 17 Albert gets his Saxon together and puts body on.

Feb 9 Mrs. Jones (Sophronia) died tonight.

" 20 Artie Randall's wife Nellie died last night.

" 24 John F. Hawkins died at P.J.

" 25 Poultry chores occupy most of the day.

Mar 9 Albert and I went to Selden surveying land for Washington R. Norton, selling to Wendell Still.

" 25 Albert and I surveyed land for Overton - Borella transfer at Coram.

" 30 The transfer of Ruland 30 acres and 2 acres with house, to Bertha Kaminski takes effect at my office this forenoon.

Apr 11 Rec'd word of death of Edwin Hutchinson at Bridgeport today.

" 15 Thos.. closes his office at Camp Upton today - freight activities to be handled from Manor.

May 3 Attended funeral of Smith Thompson PM.

June 1 Thos. begins work as agent at Millers Place Sta.

" 8 Albert and I made the day surveying R.F.H. farm on north side.

" 27 Mrs. Hagen and the DeRycheres pass title this PM.

" 30 Mrs. Ann Swezey died PM.

Aug 13 Gertrude Van Horn died at Fishkill.

" 16 Attneded funeral Arthur Randall at P.J. this PM.

" 21 Albert begins carpentry work on school bldg. at Riverhead.

" 22 Contract with Brenner for 5 acre Hudson lot.

" 25 A.R.R. comes home.

Sept 4 Teachers Mrs. Hastings and Miss Hiltsley board at Mrs. Miller's.

" 20 Surveying and measuring C.A.H. Bartlett farm.

" 26 Rec'd deed from Mrs. Harper for Baylis.

" 30 Printing AM. Surveying Albert Dayton farm PM.

Oct 18 Thos.. begins work with E. Pfeiffer in store.

" 21 Printing AM. Registration PM. I am on board. Albert at Riverhead AM, gets discharged at noon.

Nov 4 Alice Randall goes to Coram PM. To start for Florida first of week.

" 7 Election in my office again. 176 votes cast. Democratic governor gets 3 more than Rep. candidate.

" 8 Folks except Albert and I go to Patch. evening, surprise birthday party for Violet Van Horn whose birthday was yesterday.

" 9 Albert is working on his radio plant.

" 16 Wrote Mrs. Harper and sent her deed to execute.

" 23 Daniel (or David?) M. Gerard came this noon and took the deed to land of Margaret Harper.

" 25 Delivered deed to F.H.Brenner (Elsie) this AM.

Dec 9 DeRyckere's barn burns 3 PM.

" 11 Thos.. goes to Bridgeport to buy fruit - buys an auto - Ford sedan of 1921 model $ 350.

" 17 Funeral of Ida F. Edwards at church 2 PM.

1923

Jan 19 Went to Riverhead on search for H. Schwebes.

" 20 Mr. Joseph N. Hurtin died early this morning or late last night.

" 24 We attended funeral of Mrs. Schneider at church.

Feb 5 Went wth Roswell Baylis to show him bounds on the Elmira Swezey land.

" 9 Mr. Dixon died during last night, early this morning.

" 17 Albert went up and measured Chas. Edwards land this forenoon.

Mar 1 Albert helps cut ice PM on Half-Mile-Pond - DeRyckere's ice house. Make mortgage for Felecia Kaminski to Flora Dixon. Title of Slyvester M. Swezey place closed today.

" 5 Albert starts to work on the Holtsville sanitarium annex.

" 8 C. Edwards & wife sign their deed.

Apr 12 Finished Yaphank Sch. Dist. map AM.

" 13 Chas. Edwards & wife came down and executed deed to Harris.

" 22 Hicks & Craft are spraying orchards. (the old Hutchinson place next door)

May 14 Alice Randall arrives at her home.

" 25 Surveying Fry farm PM. L.E. Ritch with me.

June 1 Thos. begins at Miller Place RR. station

" 8 Shipped a case of eggs.

" 19 Albert at Holtsville is laid off at night.

" 21 Joseph Franklin Davis died today.

July 3 K.K. meeting on J.C.F. farm last night, said to be 500 iniations.

" 4 I am packing eggs and printing.

" 20 Wrote will for DeRyckere this morning before he goes to hospital.

" 26 Work on map of Walters farm.

" 31 Sold case of eggs at Patchogue at 45 cts.

August Albert & Harry Still work on school house.

Aug 3 News of death of President Harding in San Francisco

" 31 Surveyed Sarah M. Howe tract at Pennaquid, A. and Will Still helping.

Sept 5 Heard that Mr. DeRychere died in N.Y. Sept. 1, and was buried in Calvary Cem. yesterday.

" 8 Sent a case of eggs to P.J. by Thos. who sold them for 58 cts. a doz.

" 10 School began, with Miss Carrie B. Fish, teacher.

Oct 12 Thos. is gathering apples from H. & C. orchards. A. begins work on Game farm pulling stumps this PM. I am printing and clearing up election room.

" 13 Registration in election room. I am appointed inspector again for 2 yrs. We register 351.

Register for 1923

Sidney Balance, Coram

Adele, wife (entry confused)

Henry F. Goozda, Yaphank

Tessie A. Goozda, wife

Noah T. Terry, Coram

Adam Kalenawicz, Coram

HermanSchwebes, M.I.

Louisa Schwebes, M.I.

Christian Wittschack, Coram

Meta Wittschack, Coram

Bert Brower, Coram

Eugene F. Gray, M.I.

Frances Gray, "

Beryl Gray, "

Arden R. Benjamin, M.I.

Wm. A. Edwards, M.I.

Edith Edwards, M.I.

Nov 6 Election. I acted on the board of inspectors - 6 AM to 1 AM next morning. 235 votes cast - largest in the history of the election district.

" 12 Ed. Swezey & co. sawed 6 cords wood. Paid him $ 9.

" 17 Craft & Hicks take off several truck loads apples and clear the ranch here for the season.

" 20 Saw great Zepplin (dirigible) move east this morning.

" 27 The Millers are getting ready to go to Florida.

Dec 10 A son was born to Gertrude and Thomas about 7 o'clock this morning. ( That was me - DMB )

Dec 31 T. begins work in Patchogue ticket office. Florence takes a boarder, Mr. Haig sch. teacher in No. 16.

1924

Jan 14 Finished alphabetical scrapbook of war service men.

Jan 19 Finished writing of names of war service men of Brookhaven except Patchogue - 376 names

" 21 Packed up my War history to mail to Albany.

Feb 19 L. & Anna De Ryckere house burned at 9:30 this evening. Snowing at the time.

Mar 1 A. and I put up signs on Harris land - "Farm for Sale".

" 16 Meeting after sermon to elect a pastor. 63 ballots - 61 for Mr. Gray - 2 blank. Yaphank people joined. Largest congregation seen here in many years.

Mar 20 At H. Vogel's surveying north and east lines. Went to measure George Albin's lot PM.

" 22 T. goes to N.Y. Flower Show,

" 26 A. begins on carpentry job at Sayville.

Apr. 1 Primary election - 69 Rep. and 19 Dem. ballots cast.

" 3 Ran auction for L.E. Ritch PM. Thomas clerk. A. goes to Stony Brook and buys Essex car AM.

" 15 T. digs strawberry plants and goes to Patch. AM to ship them to BayShore.

May 1 Dig strawberry plants with T. We dig 4,000.

" 6 Sch. meeting ev'g - elected trustee for 3 yrs. again.

" 7 Fire in woods burns Ch. Mullen barn PM.

" 14 Funeral of Mrs. Frank Still this PM.

" 15 Went to minstrel show at Community House, Coram this ev'g.

" 26 A. and I went to Riverhead this PM as witnesses for Herbert T. Hopkins in naturalization court. With A.'s car - Essex sedan.

June 2 T. starts work Millers Place RR. station.

" 7 A. helps me measure cauliflower land rented to Larry Kaminski.

" 23 Florence, A., and Gertrude go to Patch. to hear Sousa's Band ev'g.

July 1 Walters and Zebrowski complete their land deal.

" 16 Elywn develops whooping cough. Dr. MacIvor calls to see him.

" 26 F., A. and I started 1:40 PM for P.J. E.A.R. (prob, Eliza Ann Randall) joined us there, boat "Park City" across sound, thence up by Newtown and Danbury, Brewster, to Croton Falls - fine day, fine ride.

" 27 After dinner rode to Purdy's, Somers, Hemlock Dam and then start homeward through Brewster, Danbury, Bethel, Redding, Easton, Bridgeport. Took boat "Long Island" 7 PM to P.J. 8:45, home about 9:30 - had a very pleasant trip.

" 29 Klan meeting at Yaphank on Belle Haven Manor.

Aug. 1 F. and A. go to Easthampton to see the historical pageant this PM. Selah Randall died at P.J.

" 4 Went to P.J. to funeral of Selah E. Randall ( 81 yrs. old ) PM. Many friends ( Randall family ) present.

" 7 Papers in transfer John E. Davis to Mrs. Betrice Greerman executed and sent to Clerk's office for record, dated Aug. 1.

" 22 O'Donnell and W. Zebrowski cll ev'g about transfer of former Still place.

" 25 Make deed for Henry Butler and Ellen Butler, date today, their house and lot, to Elizabeth Conlan of Brooklyn.

" 28 harris and (?) and a professor on soils looking over Harris land.

Aug. 31 Peter Wenner died at P.J. Sta.

Sept 4 Went with E.P taking school census.

" 20 W. Zebrowski closed title to Still house.

" 27 F. goes to Mt. Sinai, funeral of Mrs. Eliza R. Randall, widow of John Randall.

Oct 4 Mr. Haig comes to board before supper.

" 9 A. begins work at Radio plant. ( RCA plant in Rocky Point )

" 18 Registration begins at 1 PM in my election room. We work till 11 PM. 419 total registered.

Register - 1924 ( list in back of 1924 )

Julia Lois Muirhead, Coram

Adam Mahler, Yap.

Richard Sezey, M.I.

Beatrice Ritch, M.I.

John Borella, Coram

Dominico Plate, Coram

Felicia Kaminski, M.I.

Herbert T. Hopkins, M.I.

Elberta E. Hopkins, M.I.

Henry Elfers, M.I.

Vernon Boutcher, W. Yap.

Emma Boutcher (his wife)

Edna Tuthill, wife (whose wife?)

Adam Kalenewz

Sophbie Kalenewz, his wife

Mabel Homan

William G. Gehring, Coram

Hazel Gehring

Nov 4 Election brings out 250 votes.

" 8 A. at Radio AM. T. and Haig and I survey Koschara farm. Hicks & Craft move from their house here for the winter. ( the old Hutchinson place next door )

" 14 Edw. Swezey Jr. is shot by Prinzing, hunting, killed almost instantly at Longwood, mistaken for deer.

" 24 Went to Yaphank ev'g with T. to meet teacher, Mrs. Hendrickson who arrived on 7 o'clock train from Syracuse.

" 25-26 Surveying for Sam'l Webber at Yaphank.

Dec 3 Went to Patch. with B. Scesny to close title for Irene Swezey farm. ( Boleslaw and Anna Scesny, listed in diary under "memoranda" as joint tenants )

" 7 Capt. Henry M. Randall died at Port Jeff.

" 8 D. Ferguson calls to inquire about Hicks & Craft farm.

" 27 Ran an auction of household goods at the Game Farm for Herbert T. Hopkins the retiring foreman this PM. T. is clerk. Sold $ 135 worth. My bill $ 13 for all ex. & clk.

" 31 Millers leave for visit friends and Florida.

1925

Jan 3 A. works at Game farm. Frank Depta calls with his friend who is looking for a farm or house.

" 17 Judge Willard Bartlett died i;n Brooklyn.

" 21 T. has a call to attend ticket office at Patchogue this PM. From 2 to 8 o'clock PM.

Feb. 6 A. begins work on T's bedroom.

" 9 Cora Jones died tonight ( Herbert's wife )

" 13 Work on Bartlett map.

" 20- Ed Swezey sawed 9 cords of wood for me. Shipped case of eggs to S.S. & Co.

" 27 Hector McAlister died this morning early.

Mar 2 Mr. & Mrs. Hicks are at the old house - packed a van with goods to Locust Valley.

" 4 We went to Prosser's and heard ( by radio ) the oath administered by Judge Taft to Pres. Coolidge and the inaugural address about 25 minutes long.

" 7 Studying genealogy ( Howell ).

" 16 Ferguson tearing roof off old Hutchinson house.

" 20 T. & G. go to City Flower Show for the day. The Hutchinson house is down flat today.

" 22 Attended funeral of John Johnson at Coram PM.

Apr 4 Surveying for Interman all day.

" 11 Work on Du Val's map of Barrtlett land.

" 12 Members admitted to church: Mrs. & Mrs. Harold Davis, Grace Toder, and Barbara Schwebes.

" 13 A. begins work at Baiting Hollow rotary camp.

" 19 Mrs. Amelia S. Ritch died during last night.

May 9 Surveying for Adam Mahler, Yaphank - L.E.R. with me all day.

June 6 T. makes extra trip to Patch. with berries AM - great demand for them - 25 cts. qt.

" 7 New church members: Mildred & Elsie Brenner, Martha DeRyckere, Everett Pfeiffer, Harry Mirz.

" 22 T. & G. attend commencement exercises at Cen. Moriches school evening, where Marian graduates ( Gertrude's sister )

" 30 Went to take measurements at Chenel's 6 PM with T.

July 28 Sam. Webber & Kazel call and make contract for farm.

" 31 Began surveying for Wm. H. Moffatt near Brentwood.

Aug. 5 T. begins at Patch. ticket office again.

" 8 A. is so lame does not go to work.

" 28 A. is about the same - very lame.

" 31 Surveying for Rovagna this PM. A. remains in bed.

Sep 15 Primary election begins at 12 o'clock. I am an inspector. Reps. have 69 votes.

" 20 Mr. Gray being relieved by Presbytery lst Tuesday, is no longer pastor.

" 28 Went to Ronkonkoma to the Town Rep. Convention. Rode with Jim Ashton, E. Pfeiffer, Mr. Ashton Sr., and Geo. Prosser.

Oct 6 Rovagnas call, execute deed.

" 9 A. sits up a little while.

" 10 Registration in election room. I am one of the board.

70 Register - 1925 ( list is in rear of 1924 diary )

" 11 A. sits in chair by window - first time in 5 weeks.

" 15 Ran an auction for Mrs. Edward Ashline on the Hirsch place at Coram.

" 27 Rec'd word tht Mrs. CatherineElsebough died Oct. 26th.

Nov 3 Election in my room. 276 votes. We get through 12 PM.

" 11 Chas. Dieffenbach and H. Schwebes contract for farm, to close here Feb. 10, 1926.

" 17 T. starts for Florida tonight from Patch.

" 20 G. had telegram from T. that he arrived in Miami this morning.

" 25 Make deed for Weeks to Neuss, sent to Dr. Wm. this PM.

" 26 A. has his clotheson and sits to meals with us, first time in about 3 months.

" 30 Flora Dixon calls PM and signs her will - Gertrude and I witness it.

Dec 2 John Phillips and Willet Hulse died yesterday.

" 8 Went with Pfeiffer locating bounds on Hurtin farm this forenoon.

" 31 Finished Phillip land maps for Yerk and he called for them.

1926

Typical entries for many days include "Desk work and printing"

Jan 2 F.W. Edwards and S.R. Webber made transfer of 24 acre tract with mortgage.

" 6 Dennis Murphy contracts with A. Kahn and Fife.

" 14 Elbert S. Homan died at New Providence, N.J.

" 28 R.F. Randall's old house burns at 7 PM.

Feb 5 Roads are blocked with snow about a foot deep. No vehicle moves on the road here. A team brings the mail to P.O.

" 9 Snow begins evening and continues through the night.

" 10 A howling blast is on this morning with snow falling and drifting. T. starts for Patch. gets there about noon - leaves car at Medford and rides with a bread wagon. No car passes here today.

" 11 One team goes east this PM breaking road.

" 12 Roads are not broken out much. One sled with team passes, breaking road - a few more move on foot - that's all. RR. is opened to Riverhead but east of there is blocked.

" 28 James M. Ashton died last night.

Mar 3 Elbert Petty called PM about real estate - selling his farm to Marion Van Horn and Violet.

" 11 Larry Kaminski's house burned about 9 PM.

" 16 Isabel A. Homan ( w. of Elbert S. ) died at New Providence, N.J.

" 19 Out with surveyors on Bartlett line PM. an hour. They are finishing today.

" 23 ( Richard's 80th birthday ) Have some birthday cards and Thomas's family and D. Ferguson at dinner with us.

" 24 Wm. L. Davis died.

Apr 5 Gertrude attends funeral of her uncle Edw. Hawkins, Patchogue, PM.

" 17 Alice Van Horn died.

" 25 Elbert S. Ruland died.

" 26 Attended funeral of Sarah Van Horn, PM.

May 29 Mrs. Clarissa Davis ( Cherry ) died today.

June 13 Funeral of Frank H. Tuthill PM.

" 24 A. puts in 7 hrs. setting locks on doors on Kaminski house -- first day's work since last August.

July 2 Surveying on Fry farm at the lake. A. and L.E.R. helping.

" 13 Folks had planned a surprise for us on 33rd anniversary of our wedding day.

Aug 15 F. and A. & others visit the wreck at Calverton that occurred Friday 5 PM ( Aug. 13). Derailed train killed 6 and injured many.

" 27 Went to Ridge and bought sanitary toilets of Orville Randall for school.

Sep 1 Conducted an auction at Van Horn's for the heirs of the 4 sisters; Mary C., Sarah, Gertrude and Alice.

Oct 9 Had coal fire going in election room all day. Registration. 423 names.

" 27 Cahn and Fife call to execute papers with Gordon - deed and release.

Nov 2 Election in my room. Voitng machine is used first time.

" 6 Marcus A. Homan died at Yaphank.

" 10 A. begins work at Ronkonkoma.

" 17 Fine day. went to P.J. and had photograph taken by Green.

" 20 Mail copy to R.C. Craft for notice in his directory. ( copy of photograph )

Dec 7 Had my will signed and witnessed.

" 10 Wm. Caroli died suddely.

" 27 A. is at work helping crate furniture for Buell who is moving to Ithaca from the Game Farm.

" 29 Christopher L. Swezey died this PM about 82 yrs. of age.

1927 During winter months most of Richard's days are spent in his office engaged in printing, insurance matters, or desk chores.

Jan 14 T. goes to N.Y. Auto show.

" 29 T. buys a 2nd hand Ford coach.

Feb 1 Cousin Emeline H. hudson died this PM, East Setauket

" 7 Callers: R.O. Randall, O.B Coomes, H. Schwebes, W. Ruland, J. Borella

Mar 6 New church members are Roy Albin and Mr. & Mrs. Jason Randall.

" 27 Went to burial of Kate Hudson PM at Setauket. She died at Setauket Friday ( mar. 25 )

Apr 5 We hear that Daniel Phillips died a few days ago. He lived about Cape Cod.

" 11 Went to see Wm. Zebrowski about sch. house site this AM.

" 22 G. goes to city to see Helen Brown start for South America. ( she was former dist.16 teacher )

" 25 Guy Du Val and Miss Bartlett call about title search on Bartlett real estate below Granny Road.

" 30 Fife & Lewis Gordon call. ( Fife was involved in Gordon Heights development )

May 24 School meeting ev'g. - the appro'n $ 1,500 passed 18 to 14 for new school house.

June 4 Harry & Ethel call late PM. They brought Elbert Petty and Eunice to Swezeytown to stay awhile. ( Ethel was their daughter who married Harry Suttie )

" 14 F. goes to E. Moriches to wedding of Marian Benjamin ( Gertrude's sister ) to Ernest Darrow.

July 15 T. went to city today to learn new system of bookkeeping of Penn. RR.

" 18 T. & fam. & A. start early trip to Southbridge, Mass. by Greenport and New London boat.

" 19 An ambulance comes from city and takes Beatrice ( Ritch ) to hospital.

" 20 Lewis Gordon & Fife call PM. ( see Apr. 30 )

" 26 Sch. meeting ev'g vote on addition to sch. house lost.

" 28 To Riverhead on Lewis Gordon search - finished it.

Aug 17 Mrs. Chenel calls about school house matter. She and E. Pfeiffer call PM and we make arrangement about the use of her school room.

" 24 Henry Fichtner killed in an auto collision at Medford this ev'g or night, 4 o'clock AM Thurs.

Sep 2 Dedication of new school house in Yaphank in the evening.

" 3 Rec'd notice of death of Cousin Adelaid Jayne at Setauket.

" 6 Grace Westbay and Margaret Duane call PM and execute deed.

" 12 School begins with Miss Drapala in the school house with the 4 lower grades. ( She was my teacher two years later when I was in the 1st grade in the new school house )

" 20 Primary election. Rep. contest on Co. Com. brings 107 votes. Marchant 55, Prosser 52.

" 21 Went with Palmer surveying on Walters farm.

" 22 With Palmer on the Fry property all day.

" 23 Desk work and field work the day on Fry land. Out with Walters & Palmer a while PM.

Oct 4 T. & G. start tonight on trip to Niagara Falls.

" 20 T. & G. start on a trip to Maine.

" 21 Had auction at West Yaphank for Frank B. Tuthill this PM. had Logan Dare run the auction and I clerked.

" 22 Registration in election room begins 1 o'clock.

"Register" in rear of 1927/1928 diary

Nov 2 Alice Randall leaves her house for Coram and Florida.

" 8 Election. Vote 285 - largest this district has ever cast.

" 14 T. & G. start for Florida this afternoon. ( Return Nov. 20 )

" 23 Cousin Frances Lee died this afternoon.

Dec 10 T. and family go to Bronx Park the day. ( Dec. 10 is my birthday - DMB )

" 29 Went to Patch. - subpoena before Referee Pelletreau, Island Prop. Inc. vs Dennis Murphy AM. ( I think Island Prop. was Gordon Heights - DMB )

" 31 I am at desk work. Auto registration applications are frequent.

1928

Jan 5 Many trucks are passing, work on the road construction

" 7 I went to P.J. with E.P to close title to G.B. Topping place.

" 16 Road diggers working in front of us. A. & Leon wait an hour to see them take out big trees on south side of road and then they go to Bellport ( to work ).

" 17 Men working on road out front in great activity.

" 25 Called on Chenel school this AM with trustees, to see conditions.

" 27 A. at Bellport but is dismissed. after 10 months in the employ of Armstrong & Piermann. The house is about finished.

Feb 3 Funeral of Thomas J. Smith is held at he church rthis PM.

" 4 Benjamin Hallock died.

" 14 Special school meeting this ev'g votes $ 19,000 school appropriation. 17 yes. 5 no.

" 23 New scheme of operating schools on part time went into operation.

Mar 2 A. begins work for Jones, on his tea room.

" 3 Had TrusteesConference in office, PM. Inglee was present. We placed the matter of preparing plans & specifications of school house in his hands - no architect.

" 16 A. is at work for Jones on tea room - Dutch Oven Inn. ( John Jones was called "Badger" and was Mrs. Ferguson's grandfather who had been living with them )

" 17 School Trustees at my office. Mr. Inglee shows specifications and plans of school house.

Apr 3 Primary election in the election room.

" 5 A. begins work at Shoreham. T. begins gardening, has plowing done by Hewlett Mott.

" 14 T. sets strawberries at Chestnut Pound.

" 16 Opening of bids for new school house at office 11 o'clock. 6 bidders present.

" 17 Trustees meet and award contract PM. at my office.

" 20 Received word of the death of Bertha Lee and of Mrs. Mary Swezey, widow of Willett Swezey.

May 4 Laying concrete on road in front of our house.

" 19 Mrs. Randall comes home from Florida.

" 24 A. at Shoreham. T. goes to work in the Patch. ticket office again.

June 8 Lively work on the road laying concrete past our place. I spent much time watching the work - about 40 men - trucks and machines.

July 3 overtons execute deed to Plates, Dom. & Ida.

" 12 Edw. H. Smith died at Patch. this morning.

Aug 8 Funeral of Mrs. Elizabeth Davis at the church.

" 26 Gilbert M. Benjamin ( Gertrude's father ) and Mrs. Moseley married.

Sep 12 Heard of death of Joseph P. Dowling a day or two since.

" 18 Primary election in my election room. The district has been divided, and Yaphank has a district by itself after this.

Oct 1 School moved into new school house.

" 3 T. & G. start this noon on a trip to Montreal. ( by train )

" 8 A. bought a Graham-Paige car, for bout $ 1,000, brought it home tonight. ( I bought almost the same model, 10 years later, for $ 35 - DMB )

" 13 Registration in the election room. T. and family go to Bronx Park to see the animals.

" 19 Fife and L. Gordon call. ( see Apr. 30, 1927 ) Inez S. Davis died in Bay Shore hospital this morning.

Nov 6 Election. The new district No. 33 gives 133 for Hoover and 60 for Smith.

Dec 15 Lee house on Millers Place road burned tonight.

1929

Jan 1 Trustees arrange with Roy Albin to teach school $ 1,500 next year 40 weeks and do the Janitor work for $ 200.

" 2 I finish tracing map of Harris land.

" 20 We have closed the church for a while, perhaps till April 1st.

" 25 John E. Davis died at his home, Swezeytown, this morning.

Feb 3 Roy Smith's house burns early this morning.

" 6 Jessie E. Mott died yesterday. ( 73 yrs. old )

Mar 8 Wrote description of farm for Kaminski.

" 22 A. begins work building feed house. ( for Thomas's chickens )

Apr 2 Ethel ( Petty/Suttie ) came this moring and got A. to help her clear up in the Edwards house.

" 15 A. is working on the wall of concrete blocks in front. ( This was to protect the large oak tree which he thought was endangered by widening of the state road )

29 A. begins work at North Shore Beach, Rocky Point.

May 26 Congregational meeting votes 20 - for Mr. Stewart to come as stated supply.

June 2 Quiet PM indoors, but cars are running about 600 an hour passing.

" 10 They picked over 500 qts. ( strawberries ) today.

July 8 T. has bought about 450 pullets of Fienberg - delivered today.

" 18 I am studying genealogy.

Aug 3 Funeral of Miss Clara W. Weeks at Yaphank today.

" 9 T. & G. start 6 o'clock this morning for a trip to Norfolk, Va.

" 17 A. is making foundation for poultry house. Has load of lumber come.

" 20 T. & family and G.M. Benjamin and wife start this morning on a trip to the Hopkins home near Mass. line. ( I think that it was Southbridge ) I am looking over books and pamphlets that have been for years stowed away.

Sept 3 School begins, with Roy Albin and Barbara Drapola, teachers. ( I started the 1st grade )

" 7 Thundershower in the evening. One heavy bolt splits a locust tree of 8 inches diameter on Ferguson premises.

" 22 Fire burned E.S. Still Est. barn, carriage house & 2 corn cribs 3:30 o'clock this morning.

Oct 3 Charles H. Edwards died last night.

" 17 A. works on hen house - finishing up. ( for Thomas )

" 19 Attend Registration, 1 to 10 PM. Total votes registered 294.

" 21 Will Still has pneumonia.

" 25 William T. Still died this morning. ( 61 yrs.old )

Nov 5 Attended election as chairman. 183 votes. Chauncy Howard was struck by an auto, and killed in the road, front of election place.

" 8 Auto accident near M. F. Van Horns this evg. - 2 women killed.

" 13 Went to Pennyquid ( northwest part of Coram ) to look at Wittschack land.

" 16 Alice Randall starts for Florida.

" 25 Elbert Petty died in Brooklyn this evening. ( 74 yrs. old )

Dec 7 We had telegraph from T. this morning received last night - from Key West.

" 18 Work on school district history for Mr. Craft's directory.

" 24 Geniveve Furman ( sp.?) died in hospital at Yonkers.

1930

Jan 18 Trustees discuss driveway at sch. house.

" 21 Gordon & Fife call PM. ( Again )

Feb 10 Went to Riverhead to search records Bertha Kaminski. A. and T. with me.

" 12 LER and A. spent the day surveying Kaminski land.

" 15 Wesley Hallock takes deed to 3 acres from Bertha Kaminski.

16 Elizabeth J. Randall died this morning.

Mar 1 Howard Hicks called and agreed to rental of S. M. Swezey house.

" 3 A. started new job at Speonk.

" 4 Burial of Mrs. Willard Ruland in cem. this PM.

" 10 S.M. Swezey house burned about 2 o'clock this morning. I am at desk work reporting the loss.

" 14 F. Overton an Blomfield of Suff. Mutual came to see the fire ruins of Harris house ( formerly S.M. Swezey ). Romanski, detective from Dist. Attorney's office Riverhead called to see about the fire.

Apr 5 Finished drawing map of Lighting District, Middle Island.

" 16 Special Agent Buck called with gold medal from Niagara president and letter calling me one of the " Old Guard".

" 29 Fire starts at Country Road on Harris land about 1 PM, burns north to Sunshine Farms. Hewlett Mott with 4 others in running past the fire was in collision with another car, upset his car into the flames. Vernon Edwards was pinned under the car and burned to death. 4 who were inside the car got out alive.

May 10 T. and boys go to city to see airplane exhibition.

June 15 Mrs. Ferguson has a son born this PM in Mather Hospital.

" 19 Simon Hulse's wife, Amy, died last night suddenly.

" 20 T. and family & Pete & Marian ( Darrow ) start this morning on their New England tour.

Aug 10 Lightning struck in top of oak tree front of our house - shattered concrete some in wall and road bed.

" 18 Made deed Eunice A. Petty to Louise & Anna Lucas - site of Lee dwelling that burned. (Mt.Sinai Road, Coram )

" 19 Mailed Annual Report Dist. # 16 to Town Clerk.

" 25 T. & G. start on trip down St. Lawrence River.

" 28 In the thunder storm lightning struck the J. Jenson house and burned it down.

Sep 12 Dr. Barber calls to see me - taxes me $ 5.00 - takes blood pressure - calls it 160.

" 16 Primary election in our election room. I am chairman of the board. We finished the returns about 11 PM. The voting place is now to be moved to Coram Community House. Alice R. Randall died at Mather Hospital this AM.

Oct 1 Mrs. Kate Ritch, wife of L.E.R. died.

" 7 The election room is cleared - voting macine & traps are moved to Community House, Coram. A zeppelin air ship passed overhead, westward about 4 o'clock PM.

"Last entry by Richard M. Bayles" is written by Albert at bottom of page

On next page he writes "From here on, notes will be written by Albert E. Bayles, son of Richard M. Bayles"

Nov 1 Last day Pa sat up. He talked quite a lot, AM about his singing days, etc.

" 3 Pa in bed very weak.

" 4 Election Day. Pa passed away tonight at 11:07 PM. He just slept away.

ALBERT BAYLES DIARY

1914-1919

edited by

Mr. Donald Bayles

(The remaining diaries are being transcribed

and will be posted when finished)

1914 (AEB diary)

Jan. 30, Fri. I sent for folding Conley plate camera 5 x 7, model XV, 1 doz. Roebuck Ortho. plates, 1 doz. Du Voll's printing-out paper, tray, ruby lamp and tripod. Total $ 21.84. S.R. & Co.

Feb. 6, Fri. Pa went to N.Y. City (court) and brought my photo things from Yaphank Sta. when he came home at night.

Feb. 9, Mon. I took my first two pictures with my new camera ( our's & Hutchinson's places ). Finished them after supper. OK.

Feb. 21, Sat. I took a snow scene AM and two pictures for Mrs. T.J. Dixon (PM). My first order. Finished them after supper.

Mar. 1 Worst storm since blizzard of 1888

Mar. 24 Started work on new chicken house

Mar. 31 Ed Gordon moved into Mr. Miller's "old house"

June 19 took 3 photos for Mrs. Ann Swezey

July 12 Mr. Hutchinson's two brothers, Elbert and Francis visiting him

Aug. 12 Mr. Benjamin made body for J.H.R's auto to carry peaches

Aug. 14 C.S.Miller got his "White" five ton truck for peaches

Sept. 5 Started Tom's new chicken house, 16 x 40

Albert Bayles Diaries 1930-1939

edited by

Mr. Donald Bayles

1995

MEMORIES OF THE 1930s

Several years ago I prepared a biographical sketch of my grandfather based on diaries that he kept nearly all his life. I also wrote my memories of the war years before they began to fade. So why not fill in the intervening years? This story begins after the death of my grandfather Richard M. Bayles in November 1930. Albert took over my grandfather's insurance business and continued to work the printing press. He did this when he wasn't busy fixing something for someone. My father worked in the Patchogue railroad station from 1 PM to 9 PM so he had the mornings free to engage in other activities. The were several chicken houses on the property and it seemed as though we always had chickens.

I had started my first grade of school in September 1929 at the new East Middle Island School which had just been completed. In fact it was not 100 per cent finished because we had to use the desks from the old school for a while. The school had electricity and running water with flush toilets in the bathrooms. We had none of these luxuries at home.

During my teenage years Swezeytown played a important role in my family. One of my early memories was a birthday party for Mrs. Martha Edwards who died in 1933. Later my father used several acres of her land to raise corn and he also set out several hundred seedlings of spruce trees which he hoped to sell when they got big enough. At the same time he was using several acres in Chestnut Pound for beans, corn and strawberries.

On the west side of what was later Swezey Lane were three fields of 4 1/2 acres each separated by wooded hedges. The east field belonged to George Edwards, the next which we used belonged to Alice Albin and the west field belonged to Hewlett Mott. This was Chestnut Pound which we reached over a farm road that snaked through a long overgrown field from Half Mile Pond Road which then was open only from Swezeytown Road east. There was also a farm road that George Edwards used running north to the Coram-Swezeytown Road which was widened about 1935 and became Swezey Lane. In 1954 while working for a surveyor in Patchogue I surveyed these fields for the site of a new West Middle Island School using diagrams that my grandfather had made many years earlier.

Although my father was employed by the Long Island Railroad as a ticket agent in Patchogue his hours were 1 PM to 9 PM so he had all morning to take care of his farming activities and he liked to get up early in the morning. He never owned a farm but instead he rented fields at various locations. In addition to the Chestnut Pound lot he used three of Lewis Ritch's lots, a couple of acres across the road belong to Mr. Ferguson, another piece adjoining Mr. Pfeiffer's pond, another in back of Martha Edward's house and several acres at the north end of Wellington Farms. I don't know exactly how many acres he used for raising crops but would guess it was about 15 acres. I don't think he ever used all of these lots at the same time.

To pick the strawberries my father would get a crew of girls usually daughters of Ed Swezey whose home was about one half mile south of Middle Country Road on a private road. At that time you received 3 cents a quart for picking berries. During the height of the season in mid June we would be getting about 500 quarts. Later in July my father and I would pick the sweet corn, usually about 1000 ears the first thing in the morning. There were also tomatoes and beans. Three stores in Patchogue took some of what we had and some were sold on a roadside stand in front of our house. But we still had to ship some to the market in New York City. My days during summer were spent hoeing the weeds from the rows of corn, beans, tomatoes and the new strawberry plants that had been set earlier that year.

In 1937 when I was 14 years old I bought a 1928 Chevrolet roadster from Wal Mott for $ 5.00. He had used it as a tractor but it was not running and a good portion of the body was missing. I bought a new coil and got it running and used it in farm fields and wood roads around home until I was able to obtain a driver's license in January 1940. When someone stopped and offered to buy it I asked $10 but the person had only $6.50 so I sold it anyway.

One favorite road to drive my unlicensed car was Middle Island Blvd. although I didn't know the road had a name at the time. It was just a dirt road running through the woods to Whiskey Road and located a few hundred feet west of Mr. Miller's fields. To get there I would drive across Mr. Ferguson's apple orchard just west of our house to Mr. Miller's field. Mr. Miller had a farm road which started at Middle Country Road and ran along the east side of his property about a mile to the north end of his fields. This continued north as just a wood road to Whiskey Road. Just north of his fields there was another unused wood road which ran west to Middle Island Blvd. From there it had been widened to Davis's Pond.

In 1937 I remember there being only one house on Middle Island Blvd. However by 1940 the Estonians started to build houses along there. I guess that I first realized this in 1940 when I had my driver's license and was no longer traveling on Middle Island Blvd. My father was using Lewis Ritchs fields for his corn, strawberries, etc. The north field ran to the north boundary of the Ritch property. One day while hoeing corn I heard the sound of someone practicing their musical scales at some distance to the north. I learned that this was Mrs. Kukepu who was one of the new Estonian families. Her home was about one half mile north of Ritch's field on Middle Island Blvd. and she gave singing lessons. I think that her husband George was a piano tuner. Immediately north of Ritch's north lot lived the "goat man". We teenagers were a little leery of this man as we had heard stories of his shooting at people. Although I spent considerable time in this field hoeing corn for my father I never met the man until over 25 years later when I was surveying the property for Raymond Ritch. I met the "goat man", chatted with to him and didn't find him to be very fearsome.

Written by,

Donald Bayles

December, 2000

ALBERT'S DIARIES

My uncle Albert kept a diary every year from about the age of 15 whereas my father never did. However since we all lived next to each other on the same piece of property Albert was able to keep a pretty good account of every thing that went on. As he sat at his office desk he could see everyone coming and going. I don't know what my parents would have done if he wasn't always close by. He was a mechanic that could fix just about anything so my father never tried, he just called Albert. I guess my father took after his father whereas I don't know who Albert took after.

I have shown some of the entries from Albert's diaries below although I have substituted "Albert" for "I" as though written by a third party.

1931

Jan.7 & 11 - Albert and others drove to Westhampton Beach to see a coal freighter stuck on sand bar. On Sunday the 7th Albert estimated over 1000 cars were at the beach.

Feb. & Apr.- Albert knocked down an old brooder house and salvaged lumber to build a garage for his car. When completed (with concrete floor) he figured the total cost at $ 38.90. On March 18 he started working for Joe Herbert on a house in Commack at $ 7.50 per day. On April 14 a union delegate threw him off the job for being non-union.

May 5 - Tom was replaced by Mrs. Ferguson as School District 17 Treasurer at the annual meeting.

May 8 - The new concrete pavement on the relocated Rocky Point Road through Mr. Pfeiffer's land north to Rulands was opened to traffic.

May 10 - Grandma & Albert drove to Riverhead to the dedication of the new L.I. Historical Society building.

May 31 - (Sunday) Albert reported the heaviest traffic ever on Middle Country Rd (almost 1000 cars per hour).

June 24 - Tom had 300 Rhode Island Red chickens delivered. This meant more work for me.

Sept. 15 - Miss Marguerite Holmes from Westbury arrived to take up the position as new school teacher for District 16. She was 21 years old and would board with Grandma. At a meeting on Sept. arguments were heard for and against dissolution of the school district and it was decided not to dissolve the district.

Sept.25 - The new concrete road from Coram to Port Jefferson Sta. was completed.

October - Albert was voted in as a member of the Coram Fire Dept. There was only a fire dept. at Coram and Yaphank to serve the Middle Island area. Albert was insurance agent for both districts.

Nov. 3 - Harold Davis was elected Supt. of Highways. This was important as he and Tom were good friends and both were active in the church. Later on Tom would lose his job with the LIRR and would be able to augment his income by hiring his truck out to the Highway Dept.

Dec. 3 - Beatrice Ritch was taken to the County Home in Yaphank where she remained in a bedridden condition for the rest of her life.

1932

Apr. 14 - Tom lost his job at the Patchogue R.R. station.

Apr. 23 - Albert emptied their cistern, borrowed some 1" pipe, connected it to Ferguson's well and pumped for about 17 hours to fill it.

Apr.-May The family dug about 5250 plants from Tom's strawberry fields to fill orders for various people. Each spring plants were dug but this year there was one order for 3000 plants.

June - Albert was helping to lay out footings for new Coram Fire House.

June 24 -1200 tomato plants were set.

July 8 - Tom started working at the Babylon R.R. station.

Aug. & Sept. - Albert was constructing a new building for Mr. Pfeiffer to be used as a real estate office. It was located on the N.W. corner of M.C.Rd. and Rocky Pt. Rd.

Sept. - Gus Terry was building a concrete pit at east end of Pfeiffer's store for greasing cars.

Sept. 6 - Miss Holmes started teaching for another year and boarding with us.

Sept.30- The old Thompson house at bottom of hill burned to ground. This is very close to the location of the present library.

Oct. 10 - Laying of the 3rd conrete lane on M.C.Rd. was started at Coram. By the end of the month it had advanced to our place.

Oct. 13 - Tom and Gus Terry took a load of cauliflower to N.Y. market and then drove upstate for a load of apples.

1933

Tom was working at Blue Point R.R. Sta. Albert doing printing jobs on his press and writing insurance. Miss Margeurite Holmes ( teacher of District 16 school ) was a boarder. Not many days passed without visiting or receiving a visit from Gertrude's relatives in East Moriches or Florence's numerous aunts and cousins. Albert spent time making mechanical repairs for various neighbors and sharpening saws. He listened to his short wave radio for broadcasts from various parts of the world.

Jan. 9 - Checker season opened at Pfeiffer's store. There was always a checker board set up at the rear of the store behind the pot bellied stove.

Jan.11 - Nowaski's house on Rocky Point Road burned to ground. Was formerly Eugene Ruland home.

Jan. - Arthur Viertel died at 89. Mr. Bussing was starting to build on east end of Schmierer land ( where Suburban Set dress shop was later located ).

Mar. 4 - Albert listened to inauguration of F. D. Roosevelt.

Mar.11 - Heard about earthquake which hit Los Angeles killing 131 people.

Mar.17 - Tom finished job at Blue Point R.R.Sta. The next day he went with Gus Terry to the city in Gus's truck and brought back fruit and vegetables to sell.

Apr. 7 - Albert and Marion Van Horn treated themselves to some beer which was legal for first time since 1919.

Apr.13 - Tom started working at Babylon R.R. Sta.

June - In mid June Tom was getting about 500 qts. of strawberries from his patch (over 800 picked June 12).

June 16 - Miss Holme's father took her and her belongings back to Brookville. Last day of school.

June 22 - Elwyn graduated from E. Middle Island school.

July 9 - A very short severe storm in afternoon with hail stones 1 1/2 inches long. Small tornado caused very severe damage between Selden and Lake Ronkonkoma.

July - Cousin Lavinia Rackett is 91 this year (not birthday).

Aug. 15 - Funeral for Adam Bubb.

Aug. 17 - Mr. Pfeiffer and Mrs. Dixon married.

Toward end of August Tom was picking about 1000 ears of corn.

Sept. 4 - Clinton Smith (new teacher for District 16 ) arrived to board with Grandma.

Oct. 11 - Rupert Zebrowski cut foot while sawing wood at Pfeiffer's and died at Mather Hospital.

Nov. 7 - At election prohibition was repealed and Harold Davis of Coram was elected Supt. of Highways.

Nov.16 - Mrs. Martha Edwards of Swezeytown died.

Nov.25 - Gertrude, Elwyn and Donald went by train to city and to RKO Music Hall.

Nov. 30 - Thanksgiving Day with turkey on Florence's table for the first time in 35 yrs.

Dec. 2 - Albert bought a Delco electric plant from John Randall of Ridge for $ 35.

Dec. 18 - First electric lights from Delco plant. Previously kerosene lamps had been used.

Dec.29 - First time the temperature fell below zero in years.

1934

Tom working at Babylon RR station. Clinton Smith, the District # 16 teacher, was a boarder.

Jan. 5 - First electric lights from new Delco batteries.

Jan. 23 - Albert got old printing press that had been stored in barn and rigged it to run with an electric motor. Thereafter he periodically converted 110 volt appliances for use with 32 volt current supplied by Delco batteries.

Feb. 4-9 Spell of cold weather. Coldest ever recorded in N.Y. City on Feb. 9 ( 14.3 degrees below zero ).

Feb. 18 - Family drove to West Meadow Beach to view 16" thick ice cakes piled up 10 to 15 ft. high on beach and Sound frozen as far as the eye could see.

Feb. 20 - Blizzard with drifting snow. No train service, mail or school. Jim Ashton plowed open Middle Country Rd. to Coram with his "V" plow tractor with men digging through drifts. School closed for a week.

March - Albert borrows pump and pipe to empty their cistern and then fill it from pipe temporarily connected to Ferguson's well.

May 17 - Albert started doing carpentry work for CCC at Camp Upton.

May 21 - Everett Pfeiffer, Jr. born.

Sept. - No mention of any teacher boarding.

Sept. 2 - Prager's gas station burned down.

Sept.26 - Launching on Cunard liner "Queen Mary" in Scotland heard over radio. Albert often listen over short wave radio for broadcasts from Europe and other distant places.

October - Tom and Albert attended cauliflower auction in Riverhead several times. On Oct. 9 Tom bought a new Chevrolet truck from Behan in Patchogue. The next day he bought 100 crates of cauliflower at the auction and had Gus Terry drive it to the Baltimore market. Almost every other day from then until Dec. 6 he would buy from 100 to 150 crates of cauliflower and have Gus drive the truck to Baltimore or Philadelphia. Often he would return with a load of apples or other fruit which he would sell locally. Some apples were obtained in Loganville, PA.

Dec. 27 - Tom and Gus go to Florida with truck.

1935

Jan. 4 Gus returned from Florida with a load of oranges that my father had bought. From Janary to May he bought a number of truckloads of apples from Baltimore, Loganville, PA, York, PA and Stewartstown, PA. and peddled them. About 160 bu. per load. On these buying trips he used the train as much as possible while Gus drove the truck. My father always kept his railroad pass which usually would be honored on other lines.

Jan.11 - Mrs. Ferguson's father, Hal B. Fullerton died in Pathcogue Hospital at age 76.

Jan. 28 15 - 20 degrees below zero.

Jan. Listened to radio broadcasts from Byrd expedition in Little America.

Mar. Gertrude and Donald took train to Brooklyn and saw Helen Brown Carder and family off to the Canary Islands for their missionary assignment.

April 25 House was connected to new electric line.

May 8 - The Delco plant was sold.

July 29 Aunt Mattie celebrated 84th birthday. Cousin Lavinia Rackett of East Marion is 93 this year. (I haven't figured out the relationship).

Sept. 2 Ralph Thomas, new teacher for District 17, arrives to board with Grandma.

1936

Mr. Ralph Thomas was boarding with my grandmother. He was teaching the 4 upper grades at the East Middle Island school where I was in the 7th grade. Cousin Lide Carman was also boarding with my grandmother. Evenings were often spent next door listening to the radio and playing checkers with Albert and Elwyn. The economy was bad all over and Tom was looking for ways to use his truck to make money. Sometimes he would buy apples from Hallock in Rocky Point and sell them to stores or pedal them house to house.

Jan. 20 - Heard on the radio of the death of King George V of England.

Jan. 22 - " " " " the cermonies and proclamation of Edward VIII as King of Great Britain.

Mar. 19 - Reports on radio of floods in 14 NE states, some places the worst in history.

Mar. 23 - Tom began using the truck working for the Brookhaven Town Highway Dept. three days a week.

April - Tom set strawberry plants out on a lot he rented from Hewlett Mott in Chestnut Pound. He planted corn on Pfeiffer's land by the pond, tomatoes across the road on Schmierer's land and he rented an field of asparagus at Harold Davis's in Coram.

May 8 - Heard radio broadcast from the German dirigible "Von Hindenburg" which was crossing the Atlantic to the U.S.

May 14 - Gertrude attended shower for Elsie Brenner Faron at Watsel Zebrowski's.

May 27 - Heard radio broadcast reporting departure of liner "Queen Mary" from Southampton, England on her maiden voyage to U.S.

June - Between 200 and 300 quarts of strawberries were being picked at Chestnut Pound during middle of month.

June 11 - Tom picked up 240 "N.H.Red" 12 week old pullets at Yaphank RR station and put them in chicken houses out back. These were first chickens on place in some time. During late winter and spring the chicken houses were being made ready with new roofing and other work.

June - Donald took Regents exam in geography at Port Jefferson and got 95%.

June 18 - Graduation exercises at E. Middle Island school with 2 graduates, Edith Ferguson and Vera Depta.

June 20 - Albert shot 3 woodchucks under brooder house in back lot and another the following day.

June 22 - Mr. Thomas left for summer at his home in State College, PA.

June 23 - Albert took Gertrude and his mother to Port Jefferson graduation exercises and dedication in new high school.

July 4 - All attended parade in Patchogue celebrating Suffokk County Tercentenary.

July 6 - Depta's house burned to the ground.

July 11 - Cousin Lide moved to her new boarding place in East Moriches.

Sept.14 - Tom bought peaches from "Bess" Hallock in Rocky Point to sell.

Sept.28 - Tom bought first truck load of cauliflower at auction in Riverhead and had Gus Terry drive it to the Philadelphia market. During October and November he bought about 26 truckloads most of which Johnny Robinson drove to Philadelphia with a few times to Baltimore. An average load would be about 144 crates of cauliflower. The trip to Baltimore took about 8 hours and Tom would travel there by train and buy something to bring back and sell.

1937

At end of January Albert listen's on radio to reports of record floods on the Ohio River. He mentions that my grandmother had seen Chief Sitting Bull in Wisconsin about 1886. My father was working 2 or 3 days a week with his truck for the Town Highway Dept. In late February and March he bought several loads of apples from Stewartsville, PA. He always traveled by train where possible while Gus drove the truck.

Apr. 10 - Tom and Albert took tour of NBC studios in the city.

Apr.14 - Fred Randall returned to Ridge after being in California since he was 18 years old.

May 6 - "Hindenburg" airship disaster at Lakehurst, NJ.

May 12 - Albert spent most of day listening to coronation of King George VI.

June - At mid month Tom's strawberry beds were yielding about 500 qts. a day.

June 17 - Don graduated from E. Middle Island school.

July 17 - Elwyn bought his first car, a 1929 Ford Model A, for $ 35.

Aug. 10 - Don bought his first car for $ 5. It was a 1928 Chevrolet roadster which had been used by Wallace Mott of Swezeytown for plowing his garden until it died.

1938

I was in my freshman year at Port Jefferson High School. The school bus made stops along Middle Country Road and I was picked up next door along with Edith Ferguson. The bus was owned and operated by the Quinn Bus Line from Patchogue and Frank Bright was the driver. If I wasn't out front he would stop and blow the horn. The bus also ran in the evening to special activities so quite often I attended basketball games as well as school plays and other events.

Feb.24 - Gus returned from Stewartstown, PA with a load of 130 bu. of apples that Tom bought to pedal.

May 16 - Elwyn started tending Brenner's store.

June - Picking about 500 qts. of strawberries at mid month. Selling for 10 to 15 cents a qt. on stand and in N.Y. market.

July 14 - Donald had his tonsils removed by Dr. Barber at Holbrook Hospital.

Sept.21 - The most devastating hurricane on record hit.

Nov. - Tom was buying cauliflower at Riverhead auction and shipping it to Philadelphia or Baltimore market on his truck.

Nov. 7 - A total eclipse of the moon.

Dec. 29 - Tom started buying truckloads of cinders and selling to the Town Highway Dept. He hired Tom Eve and Charlie Campiche to load the cinders which were obtained from the Patchogue Electric Light Plant, the Patchogue lace mill and greenhouses in Blue Point.

1939

Feb. 22 - Tom took Don to the Sportsman's Show at Grand Central Palace in the city.

Mar. 4 - Gertrude's father, Gilbert Benjamin, died at his home in East Moriches.

Mar. 9 - Elwyn traded in his 1929 Model A Ford for a 1933 Ford V-8 coupe.

Mar.14 - Rev. Fred Swezey returned a book to Grandmother Bayles. He wrote "Genealogy of the Swezey Family" in 1939.

Mar.22 - Albert baked his first loaf of bread and said it came out OK.

Apr. 7 - Tom was renting a lot from Lewis Ritch and set out about 600 raspberry plants.

Apr.15 - Tom set 1000 strawberry plant at Ritch's. More were set Apr.17 and again on Apr.20. He also had strawberry patches in Chestnut Pound and on Harold Davis property in Coram. He had fields of sweet corn in Wellington Farms and in Pfeiffer's lot.

May 8 - Gertrude started doing housework for Louis Vogel in Yaphank for a two week period. This was during the Depression and money was scarce.

May 15 - Tom went to the N.Y. World's Fair by train.

May 24 - Albert looked over an Army searchlight set up on Coram-Yaphank Rd.

June 19 Albert noted that Don took 4 hours walking home from Port Jefferson after taking a typing exam in high. (I don't remember this at all).

June 21 Gertrude took Don to high school for shop exam.

July 1 - Albert drove Gertrude and Don to historical pageant at Shinnecock Indian Reservation.

July 15 - Elwyn drove Grandma, Albert, Joe Brenner, Pete Goldstein and Don to N.Y. World's Fair - in his Ford coupe.

July 18 - Elwyn drove Albert and Don to Frank Buck's Zoo in Massapequa and then to midget auto races in Freeport. He burned out a connecting rod near Commack on way home, managed to drive as far as Selden and then had to get someone to push him home.

Aug.26 - Gertrude and Don saw "Wizard of Oz" in Patchogue.

Sept. 1 - Albert noted that Germany attacked Poland and took over Danzig early this morning.

Sept. 3 - Britain and France declared war on Germany.

Nov.16 - Tom bought first cauliflower at Riverhead auction and shipped it to Philadelphia.

1942-1945

Longwood during the war years

Albert Bayles diaries

edited by

Donald M. Bayles

Jan. 2001

1942

Jan 4

Mr. Wycherley, in his Willys coupe, was in head-on collision with another car near Brenner's, 6 AM, and was taken to Mather Hospital.

Jan. 6

Mr. & Mrs. Ferguson started for Florida by train, AM, to spend one month there.

Jan. 29

Mr. Louis Busing died at his home here in Mid. Isl., 11 AM.

Feb 3 Rev. Stewart, Albert Ehlers, Charlie Campiche and I went to Patchogue in my car and had our photos and finger prints taken, by Town Police, for our identification as Air Raid Wardens.

Feb. 14

Edith Ferguson graduated from dietetics school in N.Y., this AM. Loring Fullerton was married in N.Y., 6 PM.

Feb. 15

I registered at P.J. High School at 2:15 PM in Third Selective Service Registration for all men between ages 20 and 45 yrs. for military service.

Feb.18

Charlie Campiche and Tom Eve helped Tom haul cinders from Patchogue Electric Light plant and lace mill to Town (Highway) heaps at Mastic, all Day.

NOTE: This was a typical entry for many days.

Feb.20

Don got home from N.Y.U. for week end after hitch-hiking from Patchogue train station.

Feb. 24

I attended first of series of weekly classes for instruction of Air Raid Wardens, conducted by Senior Warden Rev. William Stewart, in our East Middle Island Dist. #17 schoolhouse, this eve. 17 attended.

Mar 1

Edith Ferguson started as student dietician in Meadowbrook Hospital, Hempstead.

Mar. 7

Ed Swezey died last night at his home here in Mid. Isl., where he was born in 1872.

Mar.14

Don went for ride with Norman Stewart to Centereach and Brookhaven, Norman looking for used motorcycle.

Mar. 17

Loring Fullerton left PM to enter U.S. Navy and begin training at R.I. Henry Koroliszyn, Sr., aged 65, died in County Infirmary at Yaphank.

Mar. 30

I called on Rev. Stewart and at Hunters' Inn and at Curio Shop about Civil Defense orders to extinguish Neon lights & signs & seaward & skyward bright lights which might help enemy submarine activity, effective every night beginning tonight.

" 31

Marion Van Horn's first farm tractor, 2nd hand Farmall-12, delivered to him today.

Apr 4

Don missed 10:24 AM train at Patchogue & drove to Babylon with Tom's Chevrolet & took a late AM train to N.Y. & marched with his R.O.T.C. Regiment from N.Y.U. in Army Day Parade on 5th Ave. from 94th St. to 61st St. from 1:30 - 3:30 PM. Don had flat tire on way home from Babylon & got home abt. 9 PM.

" 6

"Badger" Jones, 93 yrs. old yesterday and sick for abt. 2 mos. was taken to CountyInfirmary at Yaphank today. ( "Badger" was Mrs. Ferguson's grandfather )

" 10

I took Tom Eve to Camp Upton to see Paul Eve, his son, who was drafted into the Army last Wednesday. ( Paul Eve was a Brookhaven Town policeman )

" 26 Tom registered at P.J. High School in 4th Selective Service registration for all men of ages 45 to 65 yrs. for non-military defense service.

May 2

(Saturday) Don started his Graham-Paige & drove it around some. It still has 1940 plates on, so he didn't drive it on public roads.

" 5

I took Ma and Gertrude down to our Dist. #17 schoolhouse to register & get sugar ration stamps for all of us. Beginning yesterday, sugar is being rationed at rate of 1/2 lb. per week to each person in U..S.

" 12

Tom & I registered & each got B-3 gasoline ration card for 57 gals. to July 1 for gas rationing which begins May 15.

" 14

I patroled my section from Pfeiffer's to Wycherley's in black-out test from 9:30 to 9:50 PM, as Air Raid Warden.

" 15

Mrs. Ferguson's grandfather, John ("Badger") Jones, aged 93, died in County Infirmary (Yaphank), today.

" 16

Joe Koroliszyn & wife called in office. Joe is going to Greenland or elsewhere for 2 years on defense job building air base, soon.

" 22

I went to Port Jefferson and had physical examination by local Draft Board doctors at Mather Hospital. About 50 other Selective Service men were examined with me.

" 31

Don went to Mastic with Norman Stewart & some others & they rowed across the bay & went wading in Ocean.

June 3

Charlie Campiche & Tom Eve helped Tom haul cinders from Patchogue Electric Light plant to new Catholic cemetery at Coram (Granny Road), all day. (This continued for quite a few days)

" 6

I received my Selective Service "1-B" classification notice from local draft board. Don got four 20 ft. locust poles from former Silkworth land, after supper, for observation tower he plans to build at Aircraft Reporting Post W/o my garage.

" 18

Ma and Grace Pfeiffer went ot Port Jefferson and got permits from Ration Board to buy sugar for canning. Ma was allowed 6 lbs. to July 1st.

July 3 Heaviest auto traffic, ever, late PM & eve., in spite of gas & tire rationing.

" 6 I watched 12 - 2 AM at Aircraft Reporting Post & reported airplane at 1:50 AM, first ever reported between 11:45 PM & 5:25 AM.

" 7

Tom Tovey and Roy Albin went to Governors Island for Army physical examination.

" 9

Rev. Stewart called, in office, abt. enforcing dim-out at Hine's "Hunters Inn".

" 10

I got "A" gas ration stamp book, for 16 gals. per mo. for 1 yr. from July 22, at our Dist. #17 schoolhouse. Big Frank Miller, aged abt. 68 yrs., died this AM, on ground by shack he lived in N/o Pfeiffer's pond.

" 15

Wall Mott shot & killed himself in suicide, at Swezeytown, PM.

" 21

Roy Albin went to Camp Upton to begin his drafted service in U.S. Army today & Albert Ehlers goes tomorrow,

" 24

Tom had 8,100 ears of his sweet corn picked today altogether, the most he ever had picked in 1 day. I patrolled my district as Air Raid Warden during a surprise black-out test from 9:45 - 10:40 PM, and reported flare at Stewart's indicating an incendiary bomb.

" 25

Don has about completed observation tower, except stairs, that he has been building at Aircraft Reporting Post W/o my garage since June 11.

Aug 8

Don, Schmierer, Joe Brenner, Alfred Faron & another boy went to Brookhaven & hauled boat up to Brenner's with Tom's truck for Alfred Faron. Don began building stairs on observation tower. Edith Ferguson & Henry House were married at Ferguson's, abt. 10 PM.

" 18

I patrolled my district in first day light air raid alarm and reported flare indicating incendary bomb back of church, but no firemen arrived.

Sept 14 Ferguson resigned as Chief Observer on Sept. 7 & I have been Acting Chief Observer since, until Mrs. Ferguson took over the job at 12:01 this AM.

" 17

Don Ferguson left for Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia AM to enter Army service as 1st Lieutenant.

" 19

Everett Pfeiffer and I took telegram down to Carrabus, 10:30 PM from Dick who had just arrived at Army Camp in Kentucky.

" 24

Tom took Don to Patchogue to 6:30 AM train for N.Y. to begin fall term of his 2nd or sophomore year at N.Y. University.

" 26

I painted upper 3/4 of headlamp lenses on my car to comply with dim-out regulations.

Oct 4

I saw Jimmy Eagle, home from his ship in Seattle, Wash. on 12 day furlough from Navy.

" 9

I went ot N.Y. on 10:24 AM train from Patchogue& took physical examination for enlistment in Naval Reserve. I passed the exam but didn't enlist.

" 13

I reported to Draft Board # 702 at Patchogue and went to N.Y. with about 94 other selectees on 8:45 AM train & we took physical exam for Army induction at Grand Central Palace. My exam began about 5 PM and ended 6:45 PM. I was rejected for rigid spine. 25 other selectees were rejected.

" 16

I went to Camp Upton and got carpenter job with Post Engineers & worked there all day ( 8 hrs.). Worked in mess hall in group of buildings being re-erected.

" 19

Sam Faron, Allen Swezey & I rode to work at Camp Upton with Billy Eagle.

" 30

I was laid off at 4:30 PM from job at Camp. The others were not laid off.

Nov 5 I talked with Sgt. Paul Eve who is on 10 day furlough from Army camp in Florida.

" 9

I patrolled my district as Air Raid Warden during trial black-out 7:10 - 7:40 PM.

" 11

I took Tom Tovey to Patchogue to local draft board and saw him leave with bunch of other selectees on 8:45 AM train for N.Y. for his 2nd Army physical exam.

" 16

I began carpentering again for Post Engineers at Camp UJpton making wood floors & sides for tents.

" 18

Tom took Tom Tovey to Patchogue to draft board to be taken to Camp Upton with bunch of other draftees to begin service in Army.

Dec 8

I rode to work at Camp with Sam Faron in his car and Sammy Faron Jr., Allen Swezey and Freddie Ruppert.

" 12

I was laid off at 4:30 PM along with about 35 other carpenters. Sammy and Allen also laid off.

" 23

My 45th birthday. Eddie Swezey & Mrs. Foster called on Ma and me at noon and had dinner here. They told us that George ( Eddie's brother ) died at 4 AM today in Greenport Hospital from a fall in shipyard last Thursday noon.

" 24

Sgt. Roy Albin, home on 10 day furlough from Camp Gruber, Okla., called on Ma and me at supper time.

1943

Jan 4

I watched 12- 2 AM at Aircraft Reporting Post. I attended Air Raid Wardens' meeting in our Dist.# 17 schoolhouse, eve. and then patrolled my district as Air Raid Warden in trial blackout.

" 7

Auto pleasure driving is banned after today, beginning this noon.

" 22 Everett Pfeiffer took office as acting postmaster, PM, succeeding Percy Still who resigned as postmster.

" 26

Post office is back at Pfeiffer's store again for first day, since being at Percy Still's gas sta. with Percy as postmaster since Oct. 1940.

" 28

Don went to Patchogue to Local Draft Board # 702 and volunteered for early call in Army draft.

Feb 8 I saw Pvt. Eddie Zebrowski, on 3 day furlough from Army, at Pfeiffer's store.

" 10

Don went to N.Y. on 9:15 AM train from Patchogue, with abt. 120 other draftees, and took Army exam and was inducted into the Army at Grand Central Palace and came home for 7 day furlough.

" 17

Tom and Gertrude took Don to Patchogue at 8 AM where Don joined about 100 other draftees and was taken to Camp Upton.

Mar 12

Western Union phoned me a telegram from War Dept. to deliver to Buniski's, 9:30 AM, that Technician 5th grade Edward J. Buniski had been reported missing in action in N. Africa since Feb.14th. I attended 2nd Aircraft Identification class conducted by Fannie Szuster in our Dist. # 17 schoolhouse.

" 22

Tom went to N.Y. by train for the day and saw Dean Bryans at N.Y.U. about trying to get Don transferred to Engineers in Army. ( this was a futile visit )

" 29

Everett Davis, aged 83 yrs., died in Mather Hospital at Port Jefferson, today.

" 31

Fergusons reported to have sold their entire farm and orchards to Mr. Lentin.

Apr 13

Gertrude took board up to Centereach to Rev. Furman to be painted and have names of Mid. Isl. boys in war service lettered on it.

" 28

Judge Sorenson called late PM and reported Raymond ("Pete") Still was shot and killed on his place at Coram at 3 AM and asked me to take Pete's job as Chief Observer at Aircraft Reporting Post until a new Chief can be appointed.

May 3

Ferguson family moved to Woodbury and Arthur Philips moved their furniture.

" 5

I patrolled my section, as air Raid Warden, in surprise trial black-out from about 8:45 - 10 PM. Rev. Stewart used Coram Fire Dept's old electric siren installed at his place, to sound air raid signals, for first time tonight.

" 11

Another surprise black-out to test new signals.

" 24

Air raid test, 11:30 AM - 12 noon and I went down to Stewarts' to find out about signals, as some were sounding the "2nd blue" before Rev. Stewart had finished the "red", so I didn't patrol my section.

" 26

Fannie Szuster rec'd. her appointment as Chief Observer at Post, today.

" 27

Pvt. Alfred Faron, from Army camp 25 mi. N. of N.Y., called on us.

June 8 I patrolled my section as Air Raid Warden, in black-out test 10 - 11 PM.

" 24

Tom and I set up Honor Roll board, with 32 names of Middle Island men in military service, on lawn, near road, W/o Pfeiffer's house.

" 27

Rev. & Mrs. Stewart gone to visit Norman over week-end at University of Vermont.

July 23

Tom Eve and I helped Tom pick 3,000 ears sweet corn on Tom's patch in N.E. lots at Wellington Farms & took it to Patchogue to Sam Gordon's. I helped Tom pick 1,500 ears of his sweet corn after supper.

Aug 4

Don came home on 12 day furlough from Camp McCain, Miss.

" 18

I called on Freddie Ruppert, discharged from Army abt. 3 weeks ago.

Sept 27

Don home on Army furlough from Alabama Polytechnic Inst. at Auburn where he is assigned to take advanced course in Civil Engineering under Army Specialized Training Program (ASTP).

" 28

Don went to Coram and called on Ray Burns who is home from Kansas where he is training to be Navy aviator.

Oct 3

Mrs. John E. Davis, Sr. died suddenly at her home at Yaphank, aged 68 yrs.

" 4

Our Mis. Isl. Aircraft Reporting Post, W/o my garage, (Observation Post of Aircraft Warning Service, U.S. Amy Air Force ) was closed at 10:20 PM, by Army orders through Chief Observer Fannie Szuster. Post has been in continuous operation since 6 PM on Dec, 8, 1941.

" 7

Tom resumed working, 1 - 10 PM in R.R. ticket office at Patchogue.

" 17 Joe Koroliszyn called on Ma & me early AM. He got home, few day ago, from Greenland where he has been for past 1 1/2 yrs. working as tractor mechanic on U.S. air base construction job.

" 26

Sgt. Roy Albin, who got home last Saturday on 10 day Army furlough from Purdue University where he is studying psychology and statistics under ASTP, called on Ma & me.

" 27

George Keller died suddenly at his home here in Mid. Isl. about 7 AM.

Nov 5

Everett Pfeiffer went to Patchogue and left there 8:30 AM to go to Camp Upton to enter service in U.S.Army.

" 16

Pvt. Everett Pfeiffer Sr. left Camp Upton, PM, being transferred to some other Army camp. (later rumored to be in Coast Artillery at Portland, Me.)

" 18

Tom has leased Pfeiffer's general store and bought the business and stock and took over operation of it, AM. Grace works in store for him and runs P.O.

Dec 4

Bill Sinn ran auction for Tom & Pfeiffer, at Pfeiffer's, 1:30 to 5:30 PM, selling old, shopworn and out of date merchandise from store stock for Tom, and selling old furniture and farming equipment and junk, for Pfeiffer. Sales amounted to $ 115 for Tom and $ 160 for Pfeiffer.

" 12 Everett Pfeiffer home for first time from Army (C.A.) post off Portland, Me., on 36 hr. pass.

" 17

Fred Brenner, Sr. died at his home, 10 AM. He was 65 yrs. old.

" 19

Mrs. Charles S. Miller, aged 68 yrs., died 1:30 PM at Huntington Hospital, after having operation last Friday.

" 25

Everett Pfeifer home from Army post on 56 hr. pass.

" 31 None of us sat up nor went anywhere to see the New Year 1944 come in.

1944

Jan 17

Former Vic Edwards house burned down last night.

" 28

Everett Pfeiffer arrived in N.Y. last night on 3 day pass from Army post at Fort Lyon on island off Portland, Me.

" 31

I attended farewell party in honor of Frances Stewart who leaves for Palm Beach, Fla. on Thurs. to begin training as a "SPAR" in Coast Guard.

Feb 3 Ma called on Mr. Miller & Gwen, who were packing up their furniture, etc. to be moved, at their former home here in Middle Island.

" 12

Sgt. Roy Albin, who got home yesterday from Camp Atterbury, Ind. on 10 day Army furlough, called, AM and I went up to his house with him & fixed his oil burning stove.

" 19

Ernest Randall, age abt. 71 yrs., died in Mather Hospital at Port Jefferson.

" 22 Lottie Wenner, who is staying with Mr. Miller for a few days, called on Ma, PM.

" 29

Post Office inspector Flynn installed Grace Pfeiffer as Acting Postmaster during Everett's leave of absence as Postmaster while he is in Army.

Mar 8 Pvt. Everett Pfeiffer got home last night on 3 day pass from Peak's Island off Portland, Me.

" 9

Gwen Miller Dodge called on Ma & me, PM.

" 16

Daniel R. Davis died at his home in Coram, PM.

" 20

Don arrived home on 7 day Army furlough from Alabama Polytechnic Inst., Auburn, Ala. where he is taking advanced course in Civil Engineering under Army program.

" 22

Gertrude & Don started for Conn. with my car to visit at Allie Ritch's at Wallingford a few days.

" 23

Robert Pinckney, age 63 yrs., died at Sam Faron's at Coram, 5 AM.

" 25 Gertrude and Don got home from Conn. with my car at 2:45 AM from visit at Allie Ritch's at Wallingford since Wed. Don also drove to Hartford 3 times to see his girl friend Dottie while there.

Apr 6

Pvt. Everett Pfeiffer got home last night on 3 day pass from Army Coast Artillery post on Peak's Isl. off Portland, Me. Fannie Szuster has been appointed Acting Postmaster at Yaphank but will not assume duties until about Apr. 15.

" 18

Dr. William Sidney Smith of Longwood & Brooklyn, age 61 yrs., died at his home in Brooklyn last night, early AM.

" 30

EP got home last night on 3 day pass.

May 7

Miss Julia Muirhead was found dead in her bungalow at Coram, PM. Coroner decided she died last night or early AM by suicide by drowning in bath tub. She was 62 yrs. old.

" 10

George Prosser died at his home in M.I., age 77 yrs.

" 22

I wrote letter to Tom Tovey in Italy and to Don in Louisiana.

" 27

EP home on 3 day pass.

" 28

2nd. Lieut. Norman Stewart got home last Thurs. on his 1st. furlough, after graduating as fighter pilot & 2nd. Lieut. in Army Air Corps in Florida last Tuesday and leaves for Randolph Field, Texas, next Wed.

" 29

Army Air Forces observation post W/o my garage officially inactivated and closed by Army.

" 30

I lettered 5 more names on war service honor roll board on Pfeiffer's lawn, late PM & set 2 geraniums in front of it.

June 1

Sgt. Roy Albin got home on 4 day pass from Camp Atterbury, Ind.

" 4 I attended dedication of Honor Roll for Coram men in war service, at Coram, PM.

" 9

State Trooper Casey stopped us at South haven on our way to mastic Beach at 3:30 PM and gave me summons for truck having 1 flare missing and no oil in other one and 1 rear reflector missing. First summons I ever received in my 32 yrs. of auto driving. (Albert was driving Tom's truck)

July 8 Coast Guard Storekeeper 3rd Class Frances Stewart is home on 1st. furlough.

" 21

Don got home on 10 day Army furlough from Camp Livingston, La. late AM. Tom Eve, Don, Clem & Bob Tunell & I picked 3,900 ears of Tom's sweet corn at Wellington Farms for Tom, 3:30 - 6 PM.

" 24

Tom Eve and I took old corner cupboard and fireplace mantel and front, which Don & I brought down last night from old house which was Swezey & Petty ancestral home in back lots on recent Miller farm, over to Mrs. Flora Swezey Pfeiffer's at Patchogue.

" 27

EP home on 3 day pass.

" 30 S

Sgt. Roy Albin home on 10 day pass.

Aug 6

2nd. Lieut. Norman Stewart home for 3 days after flying from his Air Corps camp in Alabama (Maxwell Field) to Mitchell Field, L.I.

" 9

EP home on 9 day furlough.

" 23

Tom got letter from Don, written 6:30 PM last Sat., saying he and 1 other Cpl. in his Co. A, 341st. Inf., at Camp Livingston, La., had volunteered last Thurs. noon for overseas service and were leaving Camp at 7:30 PM last Sat. for a camp in California. Joey Brenner and Johnnie Carrabus reported for military service, AM. to Draft Board at Patchogue, expecting to be put in Navy.

" 27

Howard Swezey, age 76 yrs., died in Mather Hospital, AM.

Sept 5

EP home on 3 day pass.

" 12

Mrs. Viertel, age 96, died at Brenners, 4 AM.

" 14

Hurricane came up coast from S. Carolina and across middle of Long Island and New England and along coast of Maine. Heavy rain from 5 PM to midnight First half hit here with high NE wind from abt. 8:30 to 9:30 PM and second half with much higher 70-80 MPH, NW wind from abt. 10 PM to midnight.

" 20

EP home on 3 day pass.

" 23

Charlie Campiche and Mrs. Ella Ashline were married tonight.

" 26

Tom had card from Don at Fort Ord, Cal., advising of change of address.

Oct 6

Grace Pfeiffer and I took Everett Jr. from Farons to Port Jefferson to St. Charles Hospital, in my car, and left him there for treatment for Infantile Paralysis which Drs. Barber & Robinson decided he has.

" 9 (Monday) EP home for a few days. I heard that Cpl. Allen Swezey arrived in U.S. from Italy last Friday (or Thurs.) and is in Army hospital in S. Carolina from war injuries.

" 10

Sgt. Roy Albin home from Camp Atterbury, Ind. on 3 day pass.

" 26

Lt. Norman Stewart arrived home on his motorcycle from his Army air field in Indiana last night.

" 29 Lt. Norman Stewart leaves tomorrow for Army air field at Lincoln, Nebraska.

" 30

Saw Frank Lyon and learned his brother, Sgt. Wm. Lyon is reported killed in action in France . Also learned that Cpl. Allen Swezey just got home on 15 day leave from Army hospital in Ohio after being in action over a year in Italy and France and being wounded in action in France.

Nov 6

Cpl. Allen Swezey and Petie Goldstein called on me in office awhile.

" 9

EP home on 10 day pass.

" 16

Pvt. Albert Carrabus home on Army furlough

" 21 I mailed Christmas cards to Tom Tovey in Italy and Don in New Guinea.

" 27

I went to Port Jefferson and brought Margaret Obiedzenski and two Depta girls, who missed bus, home from high school, 4:30 - 5:30 PM.

Dec 15 EP home on 3 day pass. SK 3/c Frances Stewart (SPAR) got home on 10 day furlough from her Coast Guard station in South Carolina.

" 17

I brought military service honor roll home from church and lettered 3 more names (making 17 names in all) on it.

" 23

My 47th birthday.

" 28

Frank Hagen, Rob Lyon and Johnnie Archambault called about insurance transfer in Frank's garage business which he's sold to them today.

1945

Jan 7 About 20 people at church. Pvt. Everett Pfeiffer, who got home lst night on 3 day pass from Peaks Island, Me. and Raymond ('Buddy") Still, in Naval officers' training, also at church.

" 8

I talked with Albert Carrabus, who just got home with medical discharge from Army.

" 10

Carleton Edwards called and reported that his father's, George Edwards, house at Swezeytown burned down at 1:30 PM.

" 21 S

Sgt. Roy Albin, home from Camp Atterbury, Ind., on 12 day Army furlough, called here. Pfc. Everett Pfeiffer got home last night on 48 hr. pass from Peaks Isl., Me. and went back tonight.

Feb 3

I saw Pvt. Joey Brenner at store, who got home Thurs. on 15 day Army furlough from Texas.

" 4

Billy Eagle & family have just moved into former Busing house.

" 7

Grace Pfeiffer got letter from Everett today, that he was operated on for hernia at Camp Houze (Hood?) Texas, Feb. 1.

Mar 3

Ma and I attended wedding of E/M 1/C Jimmy Eagle, U.S.N. and Virginia Goldstein, in our church, 4 PM.

" 5

I spoke with Marine Sgt. Stewart Weeks, at Eve's, home on 30 day furlough, just returned from about 1 yr. service on mid-Pacific islands. ( Stewart had married Lorraine Eve )

Apr 1

Attended Easter services at Church. Main room being used for services today and from now on, for first time since services have been held in rear room since Dec. 31, 1944 to save heating fuel.

" 8

Capt. & Mrs. Don Ferguson & Anne & Billy, from Carmel, N.Y. called, 1 - 3 PM.

" 12

President Franklin D. Roosevelt died at Warm Springs, Ga. 4:35 PM.

" 14 I went to store with Grace Pfeiffer to help her get cold cuts & meat for farewell party for Billy Eagle, ( in former Busing place ) who enters Army April 18.

May 8

President Truman made official announcement over radio at 9 AM that Germany had surrendered to Allies yesterday at 2:41 AM European (French) Time, and that today is "VE Day", and European war is ended with orders to cease fighting at 11:01 PM today Central European Time.

" 26

I lettered 9 more names on war service honor roll board on Pfeiffer's lawn, late PM. 53 names on it now.

June 2

Went to Patchogue, shopping, late PM. Couldn't get any meat anywhere.

" 3

I wrote letters to Don, in Philippines, & Tom Tovey, in West Africa.

" 6 Pfc. EP home for first time since Jan. 10 on 10 day Army furlough, from Camp Howze, Texas.

" 15

T/5 Eddie Buniski got home today after being in German military prison since his capture by Germans in N. Africa Feb.14, 1943.

" 16

Grace took Everett to N.Y. late PM, to take train at 3 AM tomorrow to Camp Meade in Maryland, after being home on 10 day Army furlough after leaving Camp Howze, Texas.

" 23

Brenner's place recently sold.

" 24

SPAR Storekeeper 2/C Frances Stewart at church in middle of her 15 day furlough from Coast Guard station in S. Carolina. A.A.C. Lieut. Norman Stewart is due home this PM, after flying back to U.S. from Europe last week.

" 29

I went to N.Y. with others and attended wedding of Marjorie Stewart and Pvt. Neil Watson in Chapel of Madison Ave, Presbyterian Church at 8:30 PM.

July 1

Pfc. Everett Pfeiffer & Grace, 2nd Lieut. Norman Stewart & SK 2/C Frances Stewart at church this AM. Everett goes back to Camp Meade, Md. tonight. Frances goes back to Coast Guard Station in Charleston, S.C. tomorrow. Norman is home from Europe on 30 day furlough.

" 7

T/5 Eddie Buniski, home on 60 day Army furlough until Aug. 25, called awhile AM. First I've seen him since he got home last month from Europe where he was German military prisoner about 26 months.

" 8

Pvt. Joey Brenner, just returned from Army service in France & Germany got home on 30 day furlough last night.

" 16

We received letter from Don on Mindanao, P.I. saying he had been wounded in right arm & right side from Jap mortar shell on July 2 & was in hospital for about 30 days.

" 19

Wilbur Blydenburgh was killed in accident driving Town truck hit by tank trailer truck, at Coram, abt. 4 PM.

" 24

I went to Coram & called on George Edwards, at Carleton's, about insurance on George's new house, started last week.

" 30

Grace (Pfeiffer) had letter from Everett that he is at Army post in Panama Canal Zone for duration.

Aug 4

Cpl. Tom Tovey phoned me from Jamaica, 7 PM, where he arrived 11:30 AM, just released from Army & just returned by plane, via Africa, from Italy where he served about 1 1/2 yrs. in Army Air Corps.

" 10

We heard over radio at 8 AM that Japan had offered nearly unconditional surrender this AM.

" 13

Aunt Mattie Jones died at her home in Port Jefferson, tonight at 10:30 PM. (She was grandmother Florence Bayles's step sister )

" 14

We heard President Truman's announcement over radio, at 7 PM, that Japan had accepted Allied surrender terms, in radio message received at Washington, D.C. at 4:22 PM from Tokyo, via Switzerland.

" 15

Today & tomorrow proclaimed holidays to celebrate Japanese surrender. Wartime rationing of gasoline, fuel oil & canned goods ended today.

" 29 Sgt. Roy Albin, just released from Army after serving since July 21, 1942, got home today and called on Ma & me.

Sept 20

I went down to store to see Tom Tovey who was taken sick there with chills and fever After some phone calls I took him to Bellport and had Dr. Horenstein look him over and then took him to Port Jefferson, in my car, 7 PM, & left him in Mather Hospital for few days.

" 29

I went to Port Jefferson in my car and brought Tom Tovey home from Mather Hospital where he's been since Sept. 20 sick with malaria. Tommy had supper and spent eve. with Ma & me & then I took him home to Al Fackner's place where he stays.

Oct 1

Tom completed sale of his 1934 Chevrolet 1 1/2 ton truck to Schmierer.

" 7 Norman Stewart at church, just discharged from Army Air Corps about week before last. Mrs. Gilbert Randall, age 94, died in Mather Hospital 10:30 PM last night after falling & breaking her hip in her home at Ridge last Tues. night.

" 8

Schmierer started for Florida last night with 1934 Chevrolet truck he recently bought from Tom, which Tom had for about 11 yrs.

" 10

Joey Brenner called on Ma & me. He got home last night on 45 day Army furlough from Camp Jackson, South Carolina.

" 20

Alfred Faron got home last night, just returned from Germany & discharged from Army after about 2 yrs. Army service in Europe.

" 24 Gertrude had telegram from Don, AM, saying he had arrived in Seattle, Wash. from Army Hospital on Leyte in Philippines, last Monday night, & would be at Fort Lewis in Wash. a few days before coming home.

" 25

Pvt. Joey Brenner called on Ma & me to say good-bye, 9 AM, as he leaves at 9:30 AM to go back to Army camp Fort Jackson in South Carolina after being home only since Oct. 10 on 45 day Army furlough which was cancelled.

Nov 1

Tom & Gertrude left at 6 AM & went to Utica by train to see Don in Rhodes General Army Hospital where Don arrived last Mon.

" 2

Tom & Gertrude got back at 1 AM from seeing Don at Utica. Don arrived home on week end pass this evening on train arriving Patchogue 10:15 PM.

" 9

Don came home again on week-end pass from Rhodes General Hospital in Utica.

" 24

Last of Wartime food rationing, except sugar, ended last midnight.

Dec 10 Everett Pfeiffer arrived home, just released from Army after serving last 5 months in Panama Canal Zone & 20 mos. in Maine.

" 18

I talked at store with SK 1/C Frances Stewart, of SPARS, who got home Sunday night on furlough from C.G. sta. in S. Carolina.

" 20

Gertrude and I went to Patchogue and brought Don home from 11 AM train. Don received his discharge from Army at Kennedy General Hospital in Memphis, Tenn., last Tues.

JOURNAL OF VOYAGE OF THE USS KEARSARGE

1865-1866

by

Mate Samuel Davis

Journal of a Voyage

of the

USS Kearsarge

1865-1866

April 7th

I reported to Admiral Paulding commander of the navy yard Brooklyn and received orders to report onboard of the USS Kearsarge lying in the Boston Harbor.

8th

In the forenoon went to see my cousin Alfred Overton in Catherine St. He wished me to come to his house in the evening as I wished to see his wife; But I did not have a chance as I left for Boston in the evening train. Took a sleeping car, arrived in Boston at daylight next morning.

9th

At 9.A.M. reported onboard for duty. The Capt. not being onboard handed my orders to the Lieut.

10th

On hearing of the surrender of Genl Lee to Grant. Salutes were fired from the batteries in the harbor. We joined in the salute by dressing the ship with colors.

11th

It is rumored that Johnson has surrendered to Sherman. It is the whole talk onboard today. Making preparations to go to sea.

15th

At 5:20 A.M. pilot came onboard weighed anchor and proceeded to sea. Weather fine

16th

This day cominced with fog and drizle, but in the evening cleared away.

17th

The weather is clear and cool. Wind NW

18th

clear & cool - wind nw. The vessel roles very bad as she is running in the trough of the sea. A sail in sight standing to the westward.

25th

This day wind North East fogoy. After meredian made the land Azores island and put into Fayal for the purpose of coaling ship.

26th

Coaled ship. A number of officers have been on shore but as I have no money but greenbacks, I have excepted the choice of staying onboard.

27th

12:30 P.M. weighed anchor and proceeded to sea.

29th

Signalized an English merchantman. steaming w (West)

May 1st

Arrived at Lisbon Portugal. Was informed that the Stonewall had left a month previous followed by the Niagara & Sacramento.

2nd

It has been very fine weather today. The British ship of war

"Black Marion" has gone to sea. The Captains of the English fleet have been onboard and visited the ship.

3rd

The King of Portugal has been visiting the English squardron. The fleet recd. him by firing salutes & maning yards.

4th

Fine weather. The English fleet and Portugese bateries have been firing salutes all day. I cannot learn who they are honoring.

5th

Stormy weather. By order of the Captain the officers are to wear crape on left arm for a period of 6 months.

6th

At 9 O'clock AM Frigate Niagara came in the harbor and anchored, fired a salute to the Portugese flag of 21 guns. Which was returned gun for gun from a battery.

The British fleet sailed leaving the Frigate Edgar to convey the Russian fleet to sea that is expected here soon.

7th

fine weather

8th

Stormy weather.

At 9A.M. draped the ship with colors and fired salutes of minute guns for President Lincoln. Also the English and Portugese fleet.

(A minute gun is a salute fired once a minute as a means of mourning.)

9th

This day wet and fogy. coaling ship

10th

At 9 A.M. the Russian fleet entered the harbor.

their names

Alexander Nevesay flag ship

Oleg Frigate

Alinas gunboat

11th

The Russian fleet has the Princes corpse on board. All vessels draped in mourning.

12th

The Russian Minister visited the fleet. Salutes were fired. ship in mourning.

13th

At 1P.M. got underweigh with the Russian fleet and accompanayed them to sea. Also the British Frigate Edgar and a Portugeseman of war unknown to me. After we got outside of the harbor we steamed around the whole fleet and was steaming back into the harbor when the Almas turned about and chalanged us for a race which we excepted. We rounded her again and returned into the harbor to anchorage. The Niagara & Edgar went with the fleet.

14th

Religious services on quarter deck. Surgeon read some prayers from an Episcopal book.

15th

general quarters-fine weather

16th

8:30 A.M. got underweigh and steamed to sea. While weighing anchor, deck tackle parted and hurt four men quite bad.

17th

12A.M. Came to anchor at Cadiz.

18th

Weather fine

19th

Do---- (means the same)

20th

21st

Went onshore and took a look at the place.

22nd

general quarters

28th

Norwegean Frigate came in and fired a salute to the Spanish flag.

29th

Capt. has gone to Madrid.

June 1st

The Norwegian consul visited the ship and a salute was fired.

2nd

Officers of the Frigate visited this vessel.

3rd

Returned visit to the N.

4th

I went ashore to a bull fight saw 28 horses and bulls killed.

8th

Lieut gone to Madrid. Wrote to father, sent the letter by the Barque Maryland. Capt. Clark, Mr Travers gone home.

22nd

Was sailing to central Maria with 2nd Lieut.

25th

Bullfight. Spanish Frigate gone to sea. Fired a salute on leaving the harbor.

28th

At 8 A.M. weighed anchor and left for Gibraltor arriving at 4 A.M.

29th

Coaled Ship.

July 3rd

Weighed anchor an steamed to sea- took up my acts from the date of my orders to this vessel.

4th

12A.M. off Cape Vincent- fired a national salute of 21 guns noon & sundown.

9th

Recd from Stephen J.W. Tabor a letter conserning my accounts.

10th

Weighed anchor and proceeded to sea.

15th

Arrived at Feral Spain and fired a salute to the Spanish Ensign.

16th

4:30 A.M. steamed to sea

18th

Arrived at Brest France, fired a salute of 21 guns to the French Ensign and 7 for the American counsel.

22nd

Recd a dispatch from Adml Goldsborough ordering us to join him at Flushing Holland.

23rd

Got underweigh and made our weigh up the English Chanel.

26th

Arrived at Flushing. The Colrado & Niagara are lying in the harbor. The Adml is to Antewerpe in his tender the Frolic.

29th

The Adml has returned from Antewerpe.

6th

Weighed anchor at 9A.M. and proceeded to sea for a cruise of 30 days in the St. Georges chanel.

7th

The engine has not been working today. Have managed the ship under sail. All hands called as to muster at 4:00 P.M. and the sentence of the court martial of Charles Villala (seaman) was read to all hands. The sentence, confinement in double irons for fifteen days on bread and water with loss of two months pay. Also to be confined to the ship for six months without permission to go onshore.

28th

I have not written anything in my journal in sometime as I have had nothing to write about but the weather which is not worth the time that it would take writing in.

At 12 A.M. arrived at Brest. The French steamer Lafayette from NY came in this afternoon,sent a boat onboard to get some papers.

30th

Coaled Ship.

Sept 24th

The Admirals tender the Frolic came in at 12A.M. & asked permission to anchor inside of us. She was followed by the Colrado which arrived about an hour afterwards. A salute of 21 guns was fired by us to the French, which was answered from the fort. The French Flagship then saluted the Admiral with 13 guns which was returned gun for gun. The Russian Frigate ran up at the fore the American Ensign and saluted the Admiral which was returned by the Colrado.

25th

The Admiral visited the French & Russian Frigates. Was received with a salute of 18 guns from both vessels.

26th

Adml, Fleet Captain, and Flag Lieut. came onboard to inspect the ship. The officers assembled on the quarter deck to receive him. A salute of 13 guns was fired. As the Admiral left the vessel he said he was pleased to see the ship in so good order.

28th

Signaled from the Flag Ship, away all boats armed and equiped. Admiral found a considerable fault with the arms etc.

Oct 2nd

Signalised from the Colrado away all boats armed and equiped. Admiral better satisfied.

8th

Sunday. Weather stormy,no boats left the ship today for the shore till 2 P.M.

9th

At 10 A.M. the Admiral transferred his flag to the Frolic. He is going to visit the different places on the coast of France. At 11A.M. got underweigh and proceeded to sea on our weigh for Lisbon. Weather fine, Left Brest France 9th.

10th

At sea. Today the weather has been very rough. There has been considerable sea sickness onboard during the day. The vessel roles very heavy. Have averaged about 6 knotts per hour since we left Brest.

11th

At sea. Weather very rough have averaged during the day 5 knotts per hour. Fore & Aft sails set.

12th

At sea. It has been very pleasant today. Have averaged 9 knotts per hour. 5 P.M. passed cape Finistry fore & aft sails set. If the weather proves reasonable we shall arrive to Lisbon tomorrow.

13th

The weather has been very warm today. All hands have been airing beding. 6 P.M. spoke an English steamer. She informed us the colea was at Lisbon. If this proves true we shall go fuel. We shall be off Lisbon at 10 P.M.

14th

Arrived at Portugal. Arrived at Lisbon 9 A.M., cleared up decks. We saluted the Portugese flag and Admiral which was returned gun for gun. The storeship National Guard is here. No other American vessel in the harbor. The consul came onboard, saluted him with 7 guns. A British Man of War left for sea at 11 A.M. A number of our officers are on shore, purpose having good times.

15th

Mr Shander & Andrews onshore. I am doing the duty today. I shall go tomorrow. The Captain has read an invitation to dress the ship in honor of the anniversary of the birthday of the Queen of Portugal. I saw one of the mates of the National Guard. He one of them that was on the (USS) Hunchback on the James river last season. 12 A.M. a salute of 21 guns was fired.

16th

Queen of Portugal birthday. At 10 A.M/ I went onshore and took a cruise in the country. In the evening went to the circus. A number of English songs were sung. Stayed on shore all night as I could get no boat to get me onboard. A number of Petty Officers on liberty. Some of them returned happy.

17th

7 A.M. returned onboard ship. Mr Shanders day off today.-Coaled ship. Weather Stormy

18th

Mr Andrews day off duty. Cleaned ship & scrubbed hammocks. A number of letters came onboard today none to me.

19th

Portugese Admiral visited the ship today, a salute of 16 guns was fired. The Portugese Frigate in answering the salute a gun went off accidently and killed two men. I have been onshore in the evening went to the circus. 8:30 men on liberty today each one have a house and having gay times.

20th

7 am came onboard. About two thirds of the men have returned aboard. Mr Shanders day off duty, here for part of the day. Stormy. After pleasant 30 more men gone on liberty.

21st

Mr Andrews day off duty. Weather stormy. Sea James Griffin jumped out of the boat while at the wharf for the sundown boat.

22nd

Sunday: My day off duty. Stormy. No inspections at quarters

23rd

Colrado arrives. General quarters Frigate Colrado came in the harbor and fired a salute. Admiral not on board.

24th

Weather fine. Mail came on board and no letters for me.

25th

Quarters at 10 Am. 3 P.M. went onshore. Came off at 10.

26th

Lieut went onboard Frigate Colrado and took dinner. Weather fine.

27th

Mr Andrews day off duty. Weather fine

28th

1 P.M. went onshore stayed all night at streets hotel.

29th

Mr Shander went onboard the guard to see the mates of that vessel. Recd an invitation to dress ship today in honor of the Kings fathers birthday. Hoisted Portugese Ensign at the main. At 8- at 12 fired a salute of 21 guns. Also the Colrado shiped bugles fifes & drum.

30th

Mr Andrews day off duty. Weather fine. general quarters at 10 AM.

31st

Paid off today. My day off duty. Read letter from Miss Petty.

Nov 1st

Mr Shander went on shore. Weather fine

2nd

Went onshore after the mail no letters.

3rd

Went onshore with mate from the guard. Came onboard at 10 A.M.

4th

Mr Shander off duty. 8 keggs of beer on board of Mr Hoapsis invitation of the officers of the Colrado & guard. About 11 officers in all came onboard gay time till 11 P.M.

6th

23 years as of today. Mr Shanders, Cornwitherse an Andrews onshore

6th

My day off duty. Went ashore with Mr Platt & King. Came onboard at 10 PM.

7th

Nothing of importance.

8th

Mr Andrews & myself doing the duty today. Andrews went to see the Italian opera and wore my beaver hat.

9th

My day off duty. Weather stormy did not go onshore. No boats left the ship. The Admiral is expected here every day.

10th

Portugese officer came onboard and wished us to join with the Portugese squadron in celebrating the anaversary of the death of Don Pedro the 5th tomorrow. Recd a letter from Stephen Tabor 4th auditor concerning my accounts in charge of paymaster Carpenter.

11th

Colors at half mast. Portugese Ensign at the fore. Minute guns were fired from the different Portugese vessels in the harbor. Guns are fired from the flagship & fleet every half hour.

12th

My day off. Weather stormy. Received news of the Shenendoa giving herself up to the English authorities at liverpool.

( The Shenendoah was a Confederate ship that did not learn of the wars end for four months. On the 6th of November 1866 the ship was taken to Liverpool and surrendered to British authorties. The British authorities then turned her over to the United States. )

13th

There is much uneasiness about the Admiral, as he was expected here a week ago. A transport has arrived at Cadiz, I have not learned her name.

14th

Admiral Goldsborough has arrived in the Frolic. He immediately transferred his flag to the Colrado. A salute of 13 guns was fired by the Portugese and several by the Colrado.

15th

The Kings father visited the Colrado. A salute was fired. I have been onshore.

16th

Nothing of importance today.

17th

Have recd orders to get ready for sea as soon as possible and go to genoa Italy. The guard is to stop at gibraltar and get 2 guns for us, used to belong to the privateer Sumpter. Mr Wilson the gunner & myself with 10 men have been to get 2000 lbs powder for saluting purposes at a magazine about 6 miles up the river. 1 of the quarter gunners got so drunk that he was unable to pull an oar. He jumped overboard & came very near going for it. The country is very fine, a great many olive trees along the banks.

I hear today that Mr Hall the American agent at gibraltar died with the chorea. The desease has been raging strong here and in Spain

18th

I have been onshore today for the last time in this place as we sail tomorrow morning for Genoa Italy.

19th

8 A.M. got up steam 12 A.M. Weighed anchor, and put to sea. Weather fine

20th

At 6 A.M. off Cape Vincent

21st

At 9 A.M. passed the rock of gibraltar on our way up the Mediteranean. Making 11 k

22nd

A number of vessels in sight. Making our way at the rate of 9 k

23rd

Weather fine. At 8 A.M. off the island of Iorca 500 miles yet to Genoa. If the weather here proves favorable shall arrive at our destination by Saturday night. We have averaged about 9 knotts per hour. The wind is not so strong as it has been for the last two or three days but continues to blow from the sw. The officers talk a great deal about going to ancient Pallestine before we leave the Mediterianian. I hope it may be so as it would be my choice to see in prefference to any place in the world.

24th

The weather has been very fine today - averaging 9 k per hour. We shall likely arrive at Genoa tomorrow afternoon.

25th

The wind has halled ahead NE by E. Arrived in the harbor of Genoa 7 P.M. shall moor the vessel tomorrow. The pilot tells us that there are a number of American vessels here. 6 & 6 days & hours from Lisbon.

26th

A 8 A.M. hoisted colors & fired a national salute of 21 guns. Also saluted the Italian Admiral with 19 guns. The salutes were returned gun for gun. no officers can go onshore until the vessel is moored. I understand that we are the only American "Man of War" there. The statue of Christopher Columbus can be seen from our anchorage. At 10 A.M. asked permission of the Italian Admiral to moor inside of the breakwater. Which he informed us we could not by sending an officer to inform us. Capt Harell did not like it very well and made up his mind to leave the harbor. He sent word to the Admiral that he regretted his inconvenience to accomodate us and that we should leave tomorrow. The officer soon returned and apologised & said that he was mistaken in the Admirals order and

that they would make a berth for us immediately - hauled into our berth & moored, an Italian boat gave us assistance.

27th

Mr Shander is onshore today. The only officer from the steerage. I understand that this is a very good place for amusement. Shall go onshore tomorrow and see for myself. The ship is very clean. Holy stone decks & ladders this morning. ( Holy stones were used as part of the morning cleaning ritual on wooden decked ships. The stones were cut in the shape of a block, with a rope tied to both ends. A sailor on either ends would run back and forth across the deck sanding it smooth.)

28th

At 10 A.M. Mr Wright & myself went onshore.

Dec 1st

This month opens very stormy. Wrote to P Carpenter

2nd

A number of visitors onboard today.

3rd

Mr Shander off duty. Wrote to Fanny

4th

At 12 A.M. muscians came onboard and played during meal hours.

5th

Recd a letter from granma W dated 30th of October.

6th

Mr Shander onshore. Portugese Frigate came in and anchored along side of us. The Colrado is expected here every day.

7th

In the forenoon all hands to muster on quarter deck and an order read by Lieut Dewey from Admiral Goldsborough that the President had ordered that this day be set apart as a day of thanksgiving and prayer. Dr. Vreeland read from his book of the Episcopal faith & then piped down. The colors of all nations were hoisted in the manner of dressing ship. The Italian Ensign at the mizzens a representation of our being at peace with all nations. A great many visitors have been onboard today in the afternoon. Went onshore, saw the Capt of the genl Mcellean ship, had a good time. (Lieutentant Dewey would later become famous for his defeat of the Spanish fleet at Manila during the Spanish American war. He would later reach the rank of Admiral.)

8th

The consul & his wife have been onboard. Took dinner in the ward room. I have been busy showing visitors around the ship during the day. Mr Andrews onshore.

9th

It has been very cold today obliged to put on overcoats to keep warm. A number of gentlemen visitors.

10th

A number of visitors came onboard today to see the ship. Some of them belong to philadelphia. Placed a letter from Elihue also one from cousin Charry & Alice.

11th

The weather is very cool today. Recd a letter from Alice Miller from Williamsburg.

12th

A great many visitors onboard today a number of them American travelers some good looking girls among them.

13th

My day off duty. Wrote two letters and sent them to E and Charry. Weather cool

14th

Very cool today. The first time that I have been obliged to wear an overcoat to be comfortable.

15th

Mr Paine & myself visited the grato in La Bella de Palla Vicini. It is a very splendid garden. Laid out by Palla Vicini a number of years ago from which it derives its name. We got our pass to visit it in the city of Genoa at a government office. On entering the garden the pass is taken & a guide provided for to show you everything that is to be seen. The walks are laid with gravel & on both sides are rosebushes. The first building we entered was a large house built of marble. In the rooms were China tea setts also setts from Pompei. Hung up on the walls were shields spears & armor used in ancient warfare. The walls of the house were very handsomely painted. I noticed one picture representating the Samaritan woman with Jesus at the well. We then made our way to the top of a hill to a castle. The top of it was much torn to pieces. The inside is very handsome, the floor is a mosaic laid. We then visited a grato or cave which is very large. Congealed water is continuely forming in conical shapes inside while in the cave we took a boat to the palace of Floras where there is a number of statues. Here we registered our names. This palace is surrounded by flowerbeds. There are a great many kinds of trees among them are the tobacco, cork, India rubber, Fin, Olive, camphor, pepper. Floras is said to be one of the family of Palla Vicini & being fond of flowers. I have written to cousin Alice.

16th

A number of visitors came onboard to see the ship. Weather cool.

17th

The weather is very cool, wind blowing strong. A number of visitors and invitations came for the principal officers of the ship to visit an Italian ironclad to be launched. A dispatch from England to Admiral Goldsborough to send a commanding officer and two others to take the Shenendoa to America.

18th

My day off duty. Went onshore played a game of billards & tore the table with cue.

19th

A number of visitors came onboard. Among them was one Mr Stevens of NY and lady.

20th

Coaled ship - Ship is very dirty. Mr Shander onshore.

21st

Weather fine. my day off duty. Have not been onshore. Have had toothache all day. Dr Steward tryed to pull it, but did not succeed.

22nd

Visitors during the day. Nothing of importance.

23rd

Weather fine. Everybody preparing for Christmas.

24th

I have been onshore had a good time with Capt Stetmey and Mayo Cunningham American merchant. The streets are decorated with everything that is green. Christmas trees are numerous. the men are preparing to have a great time. Tomorrow an Englishmen is going to furnish the dinner for $1.50 per man.

25th

This day opens very pleasant. The men decorated the foward part of the ship with the ships colors. The 11 inch gun being covered with the American Ensign gave everything a fine appearance. A musical band came from the shore to supply the music. Tables were set with everything that anyone need wish. All of the officers were invited by the men to dine with them. on one end of the table was placed a chair covered with the national flag for the First Lieut Mr Dewey. On the other end, one simulary decorated for the 2nd Lieut. Mr Wooden. The rest of the officers being among the men. A number of American Captains were onboard, among them was Capt Stettmey, Mayo Cunningham.Mr Dewey after finishing his dinner made a short speach complimenting the men for their good behavior. Toasts were given by many of officers and men such as this. May the time be not far distant when the American Eagle shall pick out the crown of England. A great many American visitors have been onboard. It truly has been a Merry Christmas.

26th

Went to high Mass at midnight. Today the weather has been very pleasant. Comensed painting ship.

27th

My day off duty. Went onshore with Mr King & took a walk in the city.

28th

The paymaster has been to Rome a week returned 4 Oclock P.M. american visitors have been onboard by the name of Russell.

29th

The officers have been excused from watch duty. Coxswains go in charge of the boats. The Capt has been sick at Hotel Smith, is very near well now expect him onboard tomorrow. It is rumored onboard that we have orders from the Admiral to leave here & go to Spizia where the store ships are & then go on a morning cruising.

30th

I have been onshore, came onboard in the sundown boat.

31st

The weather has been very pleasant today.

1866

Jan 1st

It has been very stormy today. no officers have been onshore. Have written a letter to grandmother Woodhull and directed her to answer me at Genoa.

2nd

We have orders to sail from Marseilles but as the paymaster cannot get his money, shall wait a few days. Mr Woodrd been to Milan.

3rd Paymaster has paid off the officers. I signed quarterly accounts had $144.89 due. Recd in cash $58.08

4th

Ship under sailing orders. Took our anchors went out into the Rhodes, wind blowing strong. Went onshore and purchased some pictures. Sent letters to 4 auditors conserning accounts.

5th

9:00 A.M. pilot came onboard. American consul is onboard going to Marsilles with us. 9:45 weighed anchor and tryed to steam out of the harbor. But not having drawn enough to turn around and was obliged to let the anchor go again. Came very near going ashore spining jib boom by running into the breakwater we were about 15 minutes taking our anchor and then steamed out of the harbor. During the day have averaged 8 k per hour. Weather is very fine. Mr Edwards has made himself busy today playing pieces of music that he has learned in Genoa.

6th

At 10 arrived in the harbor of Marseilles. Fired a salute 21 guns moored the vessel. Consul came onboard in full dress uniform.

7th

I have been onshore it is the most splendid place we have visited. Weather stormy

8th

Mr Andrews & Shander onshore. In the evening all of the officers were away from the ship but I. In the fore part of the night about 30 men took French leave. 1/2 of them came back before morning. I was called at 12 O'clock to look out for the men.

9th

I have been off duty. Went ashore in the sundown boat. The vessel has halled out into the Rhodes. Hale storm

10th

The wind is blowing so strong I shall not be able to go onboard today. Mr King & Kefer,Hoops and the pay is also onshore. I have made this aquaintance with an American by the name of Dodge.

11th

The wind is still very high. The pay got a steam boat and took us off to vessel as it was impossible to go off in a small boat. Took off 15 deserters from this vessel and the Colrado. The steamer has returned to us with a number of the officers. Name of steamer Morey we have been informed.

15th

I have been on duty today, busy showing visitors around the ship. The weather is very fine.

16th

A number of visitors to see the vessel - Weather fine

17th

I have been onshore today. I do not think much of this place. Solgiers are moving about the city looking for rebbs.

18th

Have been onshore with Mr Shander. At 9 P.M. the Frolic arrived with dispatches from the Admiral. Have not learned what this is about.

19th

10 A.M. the Frolic left the harbor. Weather fine

20th

At 9 AM all the officers were informed the vessel would go to sea tomorrow at 7 AM & that the officers must all be onboard at that time. At 11 AM recd a dispatch from the Consul at Marseilles stating that they had 6 more men deserters. So we shall likely stay here till we get them. I have been onshore today on duty conserning the bill of health. Weather fine

21st

Have been onshore with mr King. Took a walk in the country. Went to see a girl spotted like a tiger. Returned onboard in the evening.

22nd

My day off duty. Have not been onshore. General quarters. Mr. King fell down scuttle on spa deck & hurt himself so that he will not be able for duty in some time. A number of visitors have been onboard today . Some of them hail from the Southern States.

23rd

Today is a holliday with the Spaniards. I understand it is the birthday of one of the Queens children - the forts have been firing salutes.

24th

Two men have returned onboard from Marsielles deserters. Shall go to sea tomorrow morning at 8: AM. Shipped boatswain mate.

25th

At 8AM took our anchor and proceeded to sea. Kane B. mate and Charles Anderson sea ran away last night. No reward offered for them. My day off duty. Studying French today.

26th

I have been off duty today. Came on watch 12 O'clock tonight. Have averaged during the day 9k running before the wind.

27th

From 12 to 4 AM made 12k. Arrived in the harbor of Malagas at 12AM and moored ship. Boat sent onshore for the Consul at 1 PM. Mr Shander & Paine went onshore in the 8 O'clock boat. Cast the broadside guns loose to fire a salute in entering the harbor but there was too much sea & was obliged to secure them again. no salute fired.

28th

A number of visitors has been onboard today. Some of them rank secessionists. Weighed anchor & left the harbor for lisbon 12 AM. Weather fine.

2nd

Weather fine. Steaming about 10k. 10PM arrived off the harbor of Lisbon. As we could get no pilot laid off untill morning.

3rd

9 AM arrived in the harbor Canadagua & Ives are here. Recd a letter from father, also recd my accounts from S.J.W. Tabor 4th auditor crediting me with $98.11 dollars and ordering the paymaster to take me up on his books from the 1st of march. The paymaster has not given us any money as yet.

4th

Have recd orders from the Admiral to get ready to go to the coast of Africa. Shall sail in about a week if nothing happens. General muster today. Religious services onboard. Have written to father. Mr. Paine on shore.

5th

Have taken onboard stores from the (Ives?) I was onboard of the storeship this morning thet have 4 mates onboard an appear to be very fine fellows. The Minister has visited the Colrado & our vessel this afternoon. A number of letters came on board but none for me.

6th

Have been onshore. Came aboard in sundown boat. Sent letter to father directed to write in three months time.

7th

Have been onshore. It has been rumored that the Lieut of the Canandagua is going to be sent home & our Lieut. Mr. Dewey is to be ordered to take his place. Lieut coming here from the Colrado.

8th

Mr. Shander has been onshore today. Portugese Admiral visited the Colrado. Salutes of 15 guns were exchanged. An invitation was handed.

13th

Today is the last day of carnival. The ward room officers except those on duty are onshore to mask ball. Mr. Dewey has been detached from this vessel to the canandagua & a new Lieut by the name of Ames ordered here from the Colrado. He seems like a fine man.

14th

I have been onshore today. Everything is very quiet. onshore carnival is over. Orders for all of the officers to be onboard at sundown. Ship under sailing orders. Returned onboard at sundown.

15th

10 AM the whole fleet weighed anchor & steamed out of the harbor. The Colrado leading the rest of the fleet following according to rank. The weather is very fine.

16th

I have been off duty today. Have busyied myself reading some of my old letters to pass away my monotonous moments. Have been steaming 7k during the day.

24th

The Lieut wishes the mate of the morning watch to take sights & work them and send them to him for inspection. I took the sight Meridian. Found the ship to be in lat 21,81

by D reckoning 21,80

Long by D reckoning 22,00 SNo Long sight

25th

Lat in 19, 44 Long 23

Weather fine sailing 6 k per hour

26th

Got up steam at 5 AM. Steamed along 9k at 8:30 came to anchor to the island St. Vincent a number of wailers in the harbor.

27th

Comenced coaling ship, took in 100 tons.

28th

Finished coaling ship a number of officers onshore.

29th

I have been onshore. There is not more than 20 or 30 white people in the place. The young Mokies go naked. Went to see the American graveyard. There was a midshipman buried there by the name of Jessie Smith who died onboard the USS Pueblo Dec. 18, 1844. gravestone erected by his messmates.

March 1st

Have gave the ship a thorough cleaning. Holystoned the decks, I ended paintwork etc. At 4:30 PM steamed out of the harbor. A downeast merchantman diped her flag we answered.

2nd

At 8PM came to anchor in Port Psayter Island St. Jago. Fired a salute of 21 guns to the portugese Ensign. This is another niger town. The mess has elected me caterer of the mess. I have laid in a number of stores, 500 oranges, 8 barrels of banannas comprise the fruit. Brig Marshall is here from Boston in a trading voyage. Recd from paymaster 4 lbs. Weather fine 19 36

3rd

I have been onshore, have seen mokies enough. 12 Am orders for all hands to be onboard. 3 P.M. weighed anchor and steamed out of the harbor bound to Serre leone. 6 PM signalised a French Barque painted white. Weather fine, all sails set. Going along 9k.

4th

At sea weather fine

5th

At sea

6th

At sea weather fine

7th

Arrived in the harbor of Syri Leone. Saluted the English flag. The fort answered in halling down the English flag & hoisting the American during the salute which was very uncommon. C ship

8th

have been onshore. There is nothing to see but naked mokies. I have purchased two baskets. Coaling ship.

9th

Visited a Barque took dinner onboard. Coaling ship. Thermoter 90.

10th

The men got drunk and fought very hard. All hands called to quarters to supress mutiny. 15 men in irons.

11th

Coaling ship

12th

Do. Weather fine. M Woodward takin with fever.

13th

Finished coaling. Cleaned ship

14th

3 P.M. left the harbor for Monrovia Liberia. Weather fine. Barometer 90 in the shade.

15th

Court marchalled 4 men for drunkeness & disorderly conduct.

16th

At 12 A.M. came to anchor off Monrovia. Saluted the flag with 21 guns. Answered at 4:00 by a battery.

( This is the last entry in the Davis diary. On March 21st 1866 Mate Samuel Davis died of Yellow Fever. )

Diary from the collection of

Mr. Sherman W. Davis

LIFE ON A CORAM FARM IN 1871

Abstract by,

Mrs. Eleanor Davis Erhardt

Daughter of Daniel R. Davis

William Lester Davis was born in the Davis Town Meeting house in Coram on July 5, 1850. He was one of ten children of Lester H. Davis, a prosperous farmer, innkeeper, and politician.

As an adult he farmed his property on the Coram Mt. Sinai Road, one mile north of his birthplace. William died March 3, 1930.

This diary illustrates the daily life on a typical Long Island farmer of the period.

Introduction written by,

Davis Erhardt

June, 2000

May, 25- Daniel and I have been planting watermelons

26- fixing to plant garden

27- Daniel, Chris and William planted garden. In P.M Chris and Wm. Planted 4 acres corn where it did not come up or was pulled up by crows

29- plowing out corn- Pa went to mill in AM, left his grist and fetched back load of lumber

30- Wm., Daniel and Chris driving team on highway

31- plowing out corn-rain-

June, 1- Carting manure (Chris helping) from around barn so as to be ready to lay foundation

2- Carting manure to Raynor farm for turnips and plowing out corn

3- Wm. and Daniel helped carpenter pull down barn. When finished, helped mason lay foundation of new barn, which we half finished.

5- Helping mason most of day

6- Plowing and harrowing turnip piece

7- Plowing out corn- (Daniel and Wm.)

9- Dank and Wm. Plowing out potatoes and corn

10- Cultivating out corn

12- Dank and Wm. Each went with load of wood part way to Port Jefferson so as to make up a full load. It is very sandy till we get part way over-

13- Went with one load of wood and cultivated a little corn- In P.M Chris and I planted potatoes and spread one load of fish scraps on corn

14- To Patchogue with load of wood and back with load of fish scraps which Chris and I spread on corn

15- greasing harness- In P.M Dank and I have been filling in with sand around foundation of barn

16- Patchogue with load of wood, back with load of fish scraps

17- Dank and I plowing out corn. Finished raising barn without accident

19- Daniel and I went to Patchogue with load of wood and back with load of fish scraps, Chris and I spread on load

20- Spreading fish scraps and cultivating corn

21- Plowing out corn- now high

22 - "

23- " " " and in P.M working in garden

24- Plowing out potatoes. Dank (Daniel's nickname) and I carted 2 loads wood to Town House (Town Poor House in Coram)

Daniel R. Davis

26- Plowed out potatoes- Then Pa and I each went to Patchogue with loads of wood, back with fish scraps

27- At Raynor farm plowing out turnips and buckwheat

28- At Raynor farm Dank and I have been plowing out buckwheat. In P.M. helped carpenters raise rafters of the barn

29- cultivating corn

30- At Raynor farm, made commencement of moving- In P.M Dank and I raked hay, then I mowed more

July-1 Finished mowing field commenced yesterday at Raynor farm- P.M started carting hay cut yesterday. At 4 P.M. Pa and Daniel came up so Dank and I went to raking and Chris and I went carting- not a good hay day

3- Rained all night. Plowing out corn and Potatoes in A.M, in P.M finished plowing out potatoes in A.m., in P.M. finished plowing out potatoes. Set out a few cabbage plants

July-4 In A.M plowing out corn- In P.M Pa and I got in hay left out over Sunday at Raynor farm "fourth of July is an holiday but I have not made it so"

5- plowing out corn

6- Wm. and Elbert Hammond, young man who is helping through harvest sowed buckwheat at Raynor farm- In P.M Wm. And Daniel raked hay

7- Finished harrowing buckwheat and sowed clover seed at Raynor farm- P.M have been raking and binding wheat. Shower last night

8-Raking and binding wheat until 4 P.M- Then Dank and I carted in - 140 shocks. It was all got in the barn today- kept six of us busy-

10- A.M plowing out corn- warm -90

11- At Raynor farm cutting, raking and getting in hay- not a good hay day. Rain stopped them at 4PM

12- Plowing out corn which looks fine and has prospect of being a good crop. PM- Pa went to mowing in swamp. Wm. And Chris raking and carting in hay at Raynor farm- Hay cured fast

13- Wm. And Elbert finished getting in hay at Raynor farm- In PM getting in hay at home

14- Carting in hay- have put in ten loads

15- A.M plowing out corn. P.M- Wm. and Daniel raking scattering of wheat stubble

17- A.M- Plowing and harrowing turnip ground. P.M mowing

18- AM- Plowing out corn and mowing. PM- Raking and carting in hay

July 20- A.M- Plowing and mowing. P.M- Pa, Wm. And Daniel have been raking and carting in hay, -raining a little

21-Pa and Daniel finished getting in hay. Wm. Raking oats at Raynor farm

22- Plowed out corn until dew was off, then went with Elbert to Raynor farm to rake oats- took up 33 shocks

24- Raking oats at Raynor farm with the men. P.M- carted two loads home

25- Wm. And Christopher cradling oats in piping tree lot

26- Rain most of the day- clearing rubbish from around new barn

27- Have been ½ way to railroad with load of wood- Wm. and Chris cradling oats in swamp

28- Wm. And Chris finished cradling at piping tree- P.M raking and binding- brought one load home

31- Wm. And Daniel raking and getting in oats at Raynor farm

Aug. 1- To Port Jefferson with a load of wood- went from there to piping tree lot to help Daniel and Chris rake oats- We each got in a load of oats

2- Plowing ground for turnips where we had early potatoes, P.M harrowing the ground and Chris went to drilling them in- got last load of oats from Raynor farm- Harvest over

Aug.- 3- Wm. Daniel and Chris, threshing oats with machine

Aug. -4- Carting manure for wheat, stopped by rain

5- Wm. and Elbert carting out manure for wheat- 90 degrees

7- carting manure for wheat

8- Elbert and Wm. Carting manure for wheat

9- Carting out manure, made a commencement of plowing oat ground which will be plowed twice

10- Two loads of wood to Patchogue, back with two loads of shells

12- Wm. And Daniel to Port Jefferson where they got 550 bushels of ashes

13- Wm. And Daniel each went to Port Jefferson with a load of wood and brought back 4 loads of ashes

14- Wm. And Daniel to Port Jefferson with a load of wood and each fetched back a load of ashes to the Raynor farm- Later plowed a little in the swamp

16- Plowing the oat ground

17- Finished plowing oat ground and sowed it

18- Plowing for Rye at Raynor farm

21- Wm. Daniel and Elbert have threshed with machines- about 100 bushels. Very dry weather

22- Sowing Rye and later grass seed

24- Fixing a fence at Raynor farm- looking for lost sheep without success

26- Wm. Daniel and Elbert cleaning up oats- P.M carting turf in the hog been and carting away old timbers from around the barn

28- Both Wm. And Daniel to Port Jefferson with loads of wood and back with ashes for the Raynor farm

29- To Port Jefferson with wood and back with ashes for Raynor Farm

30- Wm. And Elbert hoeing turnips at Raynor farm

31- Wm. And Elbert carting turf and leaves in hog pen

Sept. 1- Plowing for Rye at Raynor farm

2- Threshing seed wheat- a good day- never threshed when it worked better

4- Wm. And Daniel to Bellport for salt hay

5- Took about 20 bushels of grain to mill and from there to Bellport for salt hay

6- Wm. And Elbert hoeing turnips and cutting wood in the swamp

7- To Port Jefferson with a load of wood, returned with load of ashes and spread it on the ground where rye will be planted- mowed grass that was cut yesterday

8- Plowing for wheat at Raynor farm in A.M- In P.M Wm. And Daniel spread fish scraps and finished spreading ashes on Rye ground

9- Plowing for wheat at Raynor farm in A.M. In the P.M Wm. And Daniel loaded up the clover- 2 loads- took it home and threshed it

11- Elbert Hammonds time is up and Charles Crosier takes his place. Wm. And Charles cut about two acres of corn

12- Plowing for wheat at Raynor farm, tedious work as the ground is hard

13- Cutting corn was stopped by rain

14- Have been half way to Port Jefferson with two loads of wood. The first part of the road is very sandy- from there on we put on more wood

15- Plowing for wheat at Raynor farm- until 10A.M when it began to rain

16- plowing for wheat at Raynor farm- the ground being wet enough now

18-Wm. And Charles have been cutting corn, 95 stacks, very good corn- In P.M Daniel and Mr. Clark helped

19- Wm. And Daniel spread a load of fish scraps on the wheat ground- then spread 400 bushels of ashes

20- Wm. And Daniel spreading fish scrap and ashes on ground

21- Wm. And Daniel spread a load of fish scraps, then sprouted a few bushes around the hedge- In the P.M cutting corn

22- Wm. And Charles spread a load of fish scraps at Raynor farm- Then Wm. Went to sowing wheat- sowed it both ways and Charles harrowed. Then sowed Timothy seed- A heavy frost last night

23- Plowing for wheat in the swamp

25- Plowing all day with the exception of spreading one load of fish scrap

26- Plowed for wheat until 3 O'clock - halted by rain

27- Plowing and spreading fish scrap and ashes for wheat

29- Plowing and spreading manure, getting ready to sow wheat tomorrow

30- Finished sowing wheat, about 10 acres

Oct. 2- Wm. And Daniel raked buckwheat at Raynor farm and fetched home a load- threshed it in the P.M

3- Pulling beans that we planted between hills of corn

4- Wm. And Daniel carting cordwood and firewood where they intend to clear

5- Carting fire-wood in A.M. Wm. and Charles cutting wood in P.M.

7- Wm. and Daniel carting sand and filling in around the barn. Looking for 10 lost sheep

9- cutting wood with Charles

10- Clearing up around barn and cutting wood

11- carting sand

Oct. 12- Carting sand and looking for lost sheep

13- Killed two shoats- cutting wood in swamp

14- threshing oats

16- Helped butcher 2 shoats- cutting wood in swamp

17- Cutting wood

18- Cutting and carting wood- husking corn

19- carting sand- filling in old cow yard

20- Clearing up around barn

21- pulled a load of turnips at Raynor farm and went to Port Jefferson with them

22- Husking corn in the A.M.- getting in stalks and plowing for rye in P.M

24- Plowing for rye in swamp- stopped by rain. In P.M cleaning up oats 88 bushels

25- Carting manure and spreading for rye in A.M. In P.M Charles helped Wm. get in one load of stalks, then carted sand around the barn

26- Carting sand and plowing for rye

27- Carting sand

28- In A.M. finished plowing for rye then sowed it and Daniel harrowed. In P.M sowed on the grass seed and finished barrowing

30-Carting sand and leveling around barn in A.M. In P.M burning new ground- In evening saw a light in the east which proved to be burning of Mr. King's barn

31- Threshed 30 shocks of wheat

Nov. 1- Cleaning up wheat

2-plowing new ground

3- plowing new ground

4- Chas, Daniel and Wm. pulled a load of turnip and will went to P.J. with them and put them on the packet to go to NY

6- plowing new ground

7- plowing new ground

8- plowing new ground

9- Finished plowing new ground- not sorry for it is very tedious work

10- rain- no work

11. Wm. and Daniel spread shell line on the new ground, plowing and husking corn

13- Wm. and Daniel finished spreading lime, got in one load of stalks, then spread a load of fish scraps on new ground

Nov. 14- Husking corn in the barn on account of rain

15- killed 4 in number- In P.M spread gass lime on new ground

16- husking corn and helping cut up pork

17- Finished pulling and cutting turnips- we raised between 200 and 300 bushels- They turned out more than 400 bushels to the acre

18- sowed the new ground with rye- husked corn

19- cleaning out horse stables and husking corn in barn

20- Husking corn with Daniel and two others

22- Daniel and Wm. putting leaves in hog pen - loaded one load of corn- husking corn

23- Husking corn

24- Helping father cut and stack stalks

25- Husking corn in A.M- In P.M. Wm. and Daniel each carted a load of turnips to Port Jefferson

27- Husking and storing corn

28-In A.M Wm. and Daniel finished getting in turnips- In P.M husking corn

29- Wm. and Daniel stacking stalks

30- National Thanksgiving Day- To church to hear Thanksgiving sermon

Dec. 1- Got 2 loads of stalks in barn- husking corn the remainder of the day

2- Husking corn

3- Wm. and Daniel each carted a load of wood to P.J.

5- Carting sand in cow yard, filling it up so as to get the cows in the yard for winter for it is very cold

6- Working around the barn and yard

7- Husking corn

8- Husking corn

9- Stacking stalks in the barn

11- Work diversified- stacking stalks, removing turnips from barn to cellar, storing corn

12- Threshed 54 shocks of oats

13- Finished threshing and cleaning oats

14- Helping clean up oats in A.M and in P.M threshing wheat

15- Threshing wheat

16- Finished Threshing wheat

18- Pressing hay at Raynor farm

19- Pressing Hay

20- Cleaning up wheat

21- Finished cleaning yp wheat and in the P.M fixing the sheep stables

22- Killing a hog

23- Cutting up a hog, cleaning out stables

25- The school children had a x-mas tree here in the evening- very pleasant

26- Spreading gass lime on the corn ground

27- Spreading gass lime on the corn ground

28- Cutting wood at wood pile, carted one load of old board from around the barn to burn

29- Carted load of wood to wood-pile and cut some

30- Father and Wm. each carted a load of hay (pressed) to P.J. to send to NY

31- Alas a year has gone- Tempus Fuget and we are now to welcome the New Year

Contact with neighbors

March 2, 1871- Attended Davis Norton's funeral in Selden. Dr. Baker took dinner with us. The girls spent the evening with Emma Norton

March 5, 1871- Family attended the funeral of Mrs. Charry Ritch, 80 years old

March 26, 1871- Attended funeral of Thos. King in M.I. church, a large congregation

Political meetings

June 3, - Town trustees met

March 1, - Supervisor of the Town met here for purpose of paying interest on Town Bonds

March 28, -The justices, Supervisor, Town Clerk and other officers of the Town met here with their accounts for this year, and the Democrats of the Town met to nominate their officers

April 4, - Town Election- unpleasant day

May 1, - Justices met here to grant licenses

Nov.- Annual election- Wm. cast his first vote

Activities

March 31, - Wm. and sister Ada attended Divison at Millers Place- had a very pleasant evening and got home about midnight

June 10, - Attended a trial that originated from a horse trade. Went to a circus at P.J. - warm day 90 degrees

Aug. 4, - Went to Patchogue with George Thompson to procure a boat to take a company to Fire Island. Raining hard by spells

Diary from the collection of

Davis Erhardt

DIARY OF A YAPHANK TEENAGER

Francis William Weeks

1883

" DIARY OF A YAPHANK TEENAGER"

Richard C. Chapin

In a quiet country churchyard, located in the center of Suffolk County, lies the body of a 17 year old boy, next to the grave of his mother who died only months before. Francis William Weeks was laid to rest by a loving father, who had, with his devoted wife Mary, already buried three other children in the same consecrated place. Francis would have remained one more unknown teenager in our history, except for the fact that he decided to keep a diary, as his father had done for many years. This is his story.

The first entry in his diary for 1883 was short and to the point: “At midnight W.B. (Will Bishop) and I went to the church and rang the bell. Not a word about the startled community of those who slept. Nothing about the hasty retreat from the church. In fact, the morning brought the usual chores and some skating on the mill pond. In more innocent days, people used to say: “Boys will be boys!”, and leave it at that. The date was January 1, 1883, and Francis William Weeks was almost 16; he and his friend Will obviously greeted the new year with the enthusiasm of the young.

Francis was born the eleventh child of William Jones Weeks and Mary Croswell Weeks. His paternal grandparents were James Huggins Weeks and Susan Maria Jones Weeks, among the early settlers of Yaphank. James, a founder and fifth President of the Long Island Rail Road, was a native of Oyster Bay. Susan, a descendent of the Irish pirate Maj. Thomas Jones, after whom Jones Beach was named, was born in Cold Spring Harbor, in the home now occupied by the Director of the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. Many of her ancestors were settlers of Fort Neck, now Massapequa. Her sister, Eleanor, was the wife of William Sydney Smith, of Longwood.

Francis’ father, William, was educated at the Bellport Academy and Yale University. As a civil engineer, he surveyed the line that now divides Nassau and Suffolk, as well as many of the farms and roads of Long Island. At various times in his life, he was responsible for Suffolk schools and roads, as well as an officer in the agricultural society. As “Superintendent of the Poor”, he was responsible for the building of the first county homes for adults and for children. An inventor, scientist, horticulturalist, beekeeper, and taxidermist, William is said to have named Yaphank, which from the time of the first settlement and up until the arrival of the railroad had been called Millville.

“Our eleventh child was born this morning, Jany. 8th, 1867, at one o’clock, a well formed boy, full head of hair, and without apparent blemish. Weight 9 lbs.” He “was baptized this afternoon, July 7th, 1867,in St. Andrew’s Church, Yaphank, by the Rev’d William J. Seabury and named Francis William Weeks.” So wrote William Jones Weeks in his well kept diaries, as he had done for the birth of each child delivered by his wife, Mary, beginning with Little Susy. Seventeen years later he was to write that “Francis ... died this morning,

Feb. 13, 1884, twenty minutes before 5 o’clock. Brain affection.... We feel his loss to us. The funeral of Francis took place today, Feb. 16th, 1884, at 1 o’clock at St. Andrew’s Church, and he was interred in the family ground. In the bloom of his youth.”

We do not know if Francis kept a diary before 1882, except that he wrote

“No. 6” at the top of the first page of his 1982 diary, and on April 29, 1883 he wrote in large letters: “Begun abt. 1877” “Ended Apr. 30 ‘83” If he was referring to his diary it would indicate that he began at the age of ten. His last entry actually was Dec. 31, 1883. Nevertheless, we are fortunate to have his own account of the last two years of his life, and perhaps the answer to our questions about his untimely death. His days were filled with work, play, walking, exploration, hunting, reading, visiting, and, on the Lord's day, with attendance at Church for the worship of God. He boxed with Will Bishop, they gathered cocoons and butterflies, they skated on the millpond, swam and ran races. They made kites and flew them, they played ball and argued. They weighed themselves and kept a record of their height. We meet a young man who is accustomed to hard work, who enjoys a good time, and who reveals to us in these excerpts from his diary an eagerness for life. Even though his formal schooling appeared to be over, he records many self-study sessions of arithmetic and shorthand, as well as daily reading in various disciplines.

We note that, probably due to poor health (after giving birth to twelve children), Francis’ mother spent her winters in Brooklyn. The family business was headquartered in Brooklyn and a residence was maintained there. Whenever Francis visited he would take extensive walks around lower Manhattan. At one time, he worked for his older brother as a messenger for several weeks during the absence of the regular employee.

1882

Apr. 22nd, Sat. Cut and covered potatoes. Greased the wagon. Harnessed a horse. Wrote. Aft. went to the 2nd lot above the Presbyterian church to play ball, all of the boys present: but, owing to some little dissension, we did not have as good a game as last Saturday. Did not get home to do my work until 9:30. Father, who had been to Wampmissic, did not return until about 10.

Apr. 29th, Sat. 7:00 Ploughed. Went to the station for a barrel of coal. Ploughed in the afternoon. Rubbed the sprouts off of potatoes. 9,000,000,000.

May 23rd, Tue. 6:00 Wet and rainy. Walked over to Grandmother’s for breakfast as usual, and wrote a little with a pencil and read. Helped Father take out Grandmother’s stove and put it in the tub-house. Bound oat straw. Harnessed Gypsy to the blue wagon and took it to Robbins’ shop; rode home on horseback. Harnessed to the other wagon and rode with Father to the station P.O. Harnessed one horse to the blue wagon and the other [“Mink”] to the brown wagon; the latter for Clara and Grandmother to go to Longwood. Drove around the lot while Father mended the fence and so on. Looked at the stars some in the evening; some of them looked as big as the moon.

Oct. 1st to 13th, Occupied with various things. Went to the [Suffolk Co.] Fair on the 6th with Frank Bishop and had a fine time. Father paid my fare. I took two cases of insects, but as there was a larger case there I did not get the premium, but only Honorable Mention. Weight, Oct 7th, 124.

Oct. 14th, Sat. Very heavy rain. Studied Arith. Will & I melted lead and made about 40 bullets in the workshop. Frank [Will’s younger brother] came and stayed an hour or two. He brought Will’s boots, which he wore over his shoes and we had a hard pull to get them off; finally Frank got down on the chopping block and held on to the bench with one hand and a heavy box with the other and I succeeded in pulling them off.

Francis records his sighting of the Great Comet of 1882, with an orbit of 760 years. It was the third and last comet in his father’s lifetime.

Oct. 15th, Sun. 4:30 Father woke us to see the comet in the South-east; it was quite bright and appeared to be about 20 feet long, but it was really 50,000,000 miles.

Dec. 21st, Thu. Skated and worked some. Got some greens for the church....

Dec. 22nd, Fri. Will, C.J.(?) & I trimmed the church all in one day and made it look very well. Walked to the store.

Dec. 24th, Sun. Read. Went to church in aft. Mr. Sharp preached a very short

sermon. Read.

Dec. 25th, Mon. Christmas. 7:00 Skated on our pond. Father gave me a gold pen & $3.00 & I received several other useful presents. Went to Grandmother’s to dinner, Sunday School children came in the aft. & were given gifts of

candy, etc.

Dec. 30th, Sat. Went up to the millpond and skated all of the morning. Aft. cut wood and about 4:00 went to the pond and skated some time until it got quite dark & most everyone had gone off. Waited for Frank & he finally came with a lantern & walked home with me. Stayed for some time to see if anyone would come to skate on our pond; but as they did not, we went to the millpond, where about 10 or 15 young men were skating around in the dark. After some trouble owing to the darkness, we succeeded in getting ashore in the bogs and collecting a large number of sticks & small logs, with which we soon had a large fire going. And when those were partly burnt, some of the boys got several big boxes filled with hay which they put on and lasted some time. But as it was so dark and the fire did not light up very much though it was quite large, we did not do much but stand around and talk. F.B, W.B. & I were the last to leave & we poured the box which had been used as a seat onto the fire which blazed up for some time. Reached home about 10.

1883

Jan. 3rd, Wed. Rode to the station and to the store with father. Went to the woods near the river and cut considerable wood with Will. Edmund Howell also cutting for James Smith. In the afternoon went to the mill pond and skated. Went up to Davis’s and stayed a while. Read a book.

Jan. 4th, Thu. After breakfast I went over to the barn and harnessed Gypsy, shelled some corn and took Father to the station to go to Brooklyn. Unharnessed and cut wood at the woodpile. Wrote this. Went to the store in the afternoon and read a book in the evening.

When Francis writes about the “church”, he refers to St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, built in 1853 by his grandparents in memory of his sister Susan Maria. “Little Susy” was buried on St. Andrew’s Day, 1850, seventeen years before Francis was born.

Jan. 7th, Sun. Read. Took a walk in the woods and had a small fire. Took Grandmother to church in the sleigh in the afternoon.

Jan. 8th, Mon. “16th Birthday” Wt. 135 Ht. 5’5” T.S. Homan came last night with a telegram from Father. Sad news, to meet him at station. Split wood. Went to the station and got Father, when he told me that Mother died Sunday at 6 o’clock.

Jan. 10th, Wed. A great snow storm. Cleared the snow from the barn, etc. and went to the station with Father to send a telegram.

Jan. 11th, Thu. Cleared snow from church paths, etc. to prepare for funeral. Went up and engaged Ed Hammond to toll the bell. Harnessed the horses to the sleigh and rode to the church.

Jan. 19th, Fri. Rode with Father and cut wood on a lot near the Pres. church. Read papers till evening. Julia (older, married sister) said there was a fire; we equipped ourselves as soon as possible, and ran to the place and found it to be Capt. Coomb’s store. Did all we could in all stages of the fire which lasted about 3 hours, till twelve.

Jan. 21st, Sun. Capt. Coomb’s store was all burned; some furniture was saved and four buildings, two barns, woodshed and ice house. Ins. about $8,000. Quite a large fire.

Feb. 14th, Wed. After breakfast we worked up trees in the swamp til 12 o’clock. Practiced writing and read. Went to the store with some letters and had an exciting snowball battle with the schoolboys, about 20, in company with Ben, G. Dew, F.B. Hulse. We finally won and drove them into the schoolhouse. Wt. 138. Read in the evening.

Francis accompanied his father to the Brookhaven Town meeting at the Davis homestead in Coram. The building still stands near the crossroads of Middle Country Road and Route 112.

Apr. 3rd, Tue. Started for Coram with Father about 7:30 o’clock. When I reached there I walked around and hunted for some cocoons, also watched some boys play ball. Numbers there; very pleasant. Saw much. Stayed from 7 to 5:30 in an upper room with the seven or nine Inspectors & 15 other men while the votes were counted.

Apr. 4th, Wed. As they did not finish till 5:30 we came home early this morning feeling rather sleepy, but not much worse otherwise. Unharnessed horse and practiced writing. Practiced shorthand & walked around the pond. N.B. I take care of the stock (two horses & two cows) three times each day, and do the work connected therewith.

Oct . 4th, Thu. Went to the Suffolk Co. fair and inspected the pumpkins, squashes, etc. Also walked around Riverhead some.

Nov. 26th, Mon. Went to Brooklyn on an excursion to the celebration of the evacuation of N. Y. by the British, Nov. 26, 1783. Saw the procession which was 8 miles long.... Heavy rain.

Francis kept a cash account record in the back of his diary. A sampling of one month gives us an idea of the meticulous care given to his finances and some idea of his expenditures. Note that although this month indicates that he received a regular allowance, many other months show that he earned odd amounts of cash for work, for barter, and for game sold. Besides candy, Francis often bought raisins, pies and cake. In summertime, he occasionally bought ice cream. On July 31st he wrote: “Father went to the city. Went to store in aft. & got ice cream at J. Whitbeck’s where Regie (younger brother) and I ate 3 plates apiece.”

Cash Account -- June

Received Paid

4 From Father .50

5 “ “ .50

For Candy .10

“ Hat 1.00 “ Suit from F. 9.75

“ Suit 9.75

6 Debts 1.26

9 Candy .10

Gourd seeds .10

Candy .10

10 From Father .50

15 Accordion Books .28

Stamps .06

Cuffs .05

17 Contributions .05

From Father .50

Unaccounted .71

18 Salt .08

24 From Father .50

25 Collars .20

W., C. R., etc. .36

26 Br’t over 6.88 4.48

27 Found in purse .01

30 Spent .89

Whole amt. 6.89 5.37

Dec. 29th, Sat. Cut wood a little while in the swamp. Went down in aft. to finish a tree and striking harder than was necessary to cut a stick, the axe cut my leg quite bad just above the ankle. Went up and fixed it.

Dec. 30th, Sun. Had to stay in all day on account of my foot. Read.

Dec. 31st, Mon. Read and looked over some Books.

This was Francis’ last entry. He died just 13 days later. The cause of death

was, according to his father’s account, “brain affection”; today we would probably call it infection and blood poisoning .

Notes

Sources include:

Chapin, Richard C., Little Susy’s Church,

A History of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 1988

Hawkins, Benjamin, Francis’ Diaries, given to Enid Tooker for St. Andrew’s Church (copy to be deposited in Longwood Public Library)

Weeks, William Jones, Journals, Jamaica Public Library, Longwood Public Library

Weeks, William Jones, Memoranda (re. births, baptisms & deaths),complements of his granddaughter, Nathalie L. Dickieson, 1980.

The Rev. Richard C. Chapin, who has written articles for the Forum in the past, is retired, living in Montrose, PA. Vicar Emeritus of St. Andrew’s Church, Yaphank, he was also Chaplain of the Patchogue Fire Dept. and Ambulance Co. and teacher / coordinator of Eastern Suffolk B.O.C.E.S.

THE GOLD RUSH DIARY OF FRANK McCREARY

This diary was transcribed and provided by

Mrs. Grace Shaw

Monday 6th today is quite clear we had some pumpkin pies for dinner yesterday and they made us all sick so I will not go to my work untill tomorrow I went agunning awile and looked around the place to see what I could see

Tuesday 7th I started this morning by the broke of day, on horse back to go over to my work the weather looked rather dubious but I thought I would try it, I had not gone far before the rain begain to come down like gehne and the wind blew cane I traveled a bout two miles but the storm was so savere I was oblidged to turn, back as I was returning isaw a kieoter on a head of me, I put the hors on the run after him, I had my rifle with me and tried to get a crack at him, but he run a cross the flats ware I could not go with the horse. I had to go around so he got the start of me, the way he put into it was a caution to the black ducks that was in his way, he had to go trough some water and made a grate splashing, he got around a hill, so I lost sight of him, I soon got back to the house and dried myself before the fire, in the afternoon George Buckelew came over with the scow, and walked over to the house, he told me that Gerow was on board and had a letter and a daguerotype of my Wife and Child no storm could stop me than so we both mounted horsese and put out, but we had to go three or four miles out of our way to see a bout that got a drift from the scow, we then wet over to our shanty take a sail boat around to the scow about three miles up the bay, we arrived to the shanty at sun down after a long and rough ride of ten miles, we got the boat over the bar of the little bay after a hard pull, we then hoisted sail and pushed out, but the wind all got blewed, out by this time, so we had to try the oars, again we met another stop the tide was hard against us that we all could pull could not get the boat a long, so we had to about the ship and go back to the shanty, when we got thire George said he could not go any more tonight and Mr. Allen thought we had better stop all night, the chance began to look small for me to get my letter and daguerotype , but my dander was a little up for George had spent more time in going after his boat than neccssary, and I had set my mind on getting my letter to night, so I was determined to go through if I busted [the horses were tired and so I had to go on foot] , the said it was three or four miles and very bad going, and tried to persuade me from going, after resting a wile and eating a few crackers, I fixed for a start. thay told me the kieoters would catch me, but I told them if all the kie oters wolves and grisley bears in california was in the way and the dival at the head of them all, I would go through, I cut me a cudgel and took my six shooter with me and started off I had a very high hill to go over to begin with, that made me blow a little and that was not all I had many more to shin and dark gulches to go through one hill was so steep I had to over on all fours, but after an hour or twos I reached the old scow, without anany damange only getting my feet a little wet,and seeing a couple of brite eyes in some bushes, but I had the satisfaction of reading my wifes and seeing hers and my boys likeness after looking over a wile, I turned in and went to sleep with a goog will the daguerotype was my new years present from my brother James he could not have sent any thing to suit me better the letter was No 6

Wensday 8th I started this morning at ten oclock for the shanty on foot Horam went over to the ranch house to stay a week or two and recrute his helth. I got back to work at one oclock the prospects looks fair for clean weather, I had to stop at the top of the hill this morning to rest and look at my preasant, it is a grate comfort and pleasure to me

Saturday 11th I been the rest of this week to work on the house Mr. Allen and myself took a walk out on the beach as we ware coming back a drove of cattle was going up the hill near by us when [ the drover was] seeing to his horse thay started on by some bushes one of the cattle gave a dreadfull bellowed a few minutes and appread to be strugeling they all ran over the hill pufing and blowing we had only one riffle with us, so we thought it best not to veture out after them, but would go in the morning to see what was the matter, so we went up early this morning but could see nothing.

Sunday 12th the weather has been clear and pleasant to day I began this afternoon to write a long letter. After supper we heard a wild beast hallow in the woods near where the cattle had frakis last night Mr Allen said it was a Californian Lion well we for got all about that Mr a went to bed and I was writing when I heard something padling a long by the waters edge a bout five or six miles yards from the house. I droped my pen a little quicker and picked up my rifle and poked my head out to see what I could disciver, I could hear the critter run but I could not see him utill he got about a hundred yards off, I then let sliver at him and the way he let himself out over the hill was not slow, it was so dark I could not tell weather I hit him or what it was I think by the size it was a wolfe after hearing the Lion cry and then hearing this beast com so near our shanty made us feel a little skitish

Monday 13th we commeneed tairing down our shanty to put on the roof with. I killed four mice two lizerds and any quantity of spiders and big bugs under the boards our beds laid on after we got the boards all together, we found that thire was not stuff enough to put the roof on so we concluded that we would paack our tools and go over to town, we got everthing secured we started off with the sail boat at noon for the ranche house we arrived just in time for supper and staied thire all night

Tuesday 14th at ten oclock Mr Allen myself and another gentlemen started off in a largr sail boat. when we left the fogg was very thick. we expected it would clear before we got to the creek but as bad luck would have it the fog hug on so thick we thought the tide would be running in so to take us up to San Francisco after we got fairley out of the creek we lost sight of land, and contrary to our expectations the fogg grew thicker and we had no wind to keep stearage way on our boat, the tide was running very strong we could not tell which way exactly . we had a large boat and could not make much head way with oars, it was not long before we began to get in a long running swell which I new was not right for the bay, I told the men that we must be going out to sea or outside of the heads, we kiept heading to the sun and kiept the wind in our eye, Mr. Allen and the other man said we could not be going out of the bay that that the swell owing to the tide coming in our heavy weather out at sea we came in sight of some high land thay said it must be Aingle Island on the south end. I told them it was not the shape of Aingle Island the land was to high I said it must be the high Lands on the east side of the mouth of the harbour. I wanted to pull the boat on shore and go up hill to see our ware abouts, but thay said it would not do to land in the surf that was braking on the beach, it was not long before the land was out of sight again and the swell continued rolling higher and higher and our boat was astern fast enough enstead of going a head Mr. Allen said it must be a fogg bank between us and the land that was his reason why it disappeared so soon. I told him that we would fetch up in a fogg bank out at sea before long the majority was against and ware older men so I had to let them have thire own way, we saw an empty hogshead floating a ways off he Mr. A said it must be the rock near bird Island, near ware we ought to go across the bay, I could think that a rock from laughing, that any man could think that a rock two or three fett a bove the water would be first on top the waves running five or six feet high, and then down in the trough, and be out of the water, we was fortunate to have a good boat and she road the sea beautifully. I caught sight of a small piece of land again but the fogg was so thick we lost sight of it in a few minutes, it was time now to get a little uneasy about our situation, the waves swept our boat along like a feather, we keept getting nearer and nearer the breakers, we could hear them roar over our storeboard bow, the other man began to get a little frightened. they thought it was strange such swells could get in the bay. Mr. Allen said we had better change the corse of the boat and run more over to the other side, we took the oars and pulled all we could, we continued in this way for a hour or so, when we come in sight of some rocks on our right the other land was on the left we run close to them Mr. Allen said he was sure it was the rock near bird island all most oppors it San Francisco, directley another and another rock came in sight untill we found our selves a moust the brakers. we ran close to them as we dared to and rowed a long untill we came to the shore. I was glad to see land a gain and told the men we had keep close to it untill we found a good place to land, Mr. Allen said we would soon find ourselves near San Francicsco and their was no need to of risking the boat in the surf. I told him if he wanted to go to sea a gain, I would go on shore if I had to swim for it the other man begain to deside with me so we keept close to the shore. I put my wifes daguerotype in my pantloons pocket so if I had to swim I could save that. we rowed a long shore I should think about five miles, when we came in sight of the old fort on the south side of the entrance of the harbour a bout this time the wind began to bloe a little and fogg lifted so we could see ware we was, and sure enough we was out sea five or six, I asked Mr A if he beleaved it now he said , I may be whiped if I could belaved it we set our sails and was soon on our was to San Fracisco, I must say I felt thankfull that we was so fortunate as to get out of the scrape so far, for we had a hard job of it, the rest of our trip up the bay was very pleasnt we had a fair brease and clear sky so we could see ware we was going. we arrived to town about five oclock in the after noon all saif

Wednesday 15th I found by looking that the letter I recived from home was No 6 and the one befor was No 4 so I concuded thay must be another letter in the post offace for me I went befor I closed my letter for the mail today, sure enough I found my letter No 5 I came back read it then finished writeing my letter and took it to the post offace I sent the letter No 12 to my wife with a newspaper and one to my brother James

Thursday 16th I think I will go over the bay again this afternoon if the wind and tide is right. I want to see Gerow, I think I will start for home on the first ofnext mounth if I can get off. I went over the bay again this afternoon in the same boat that I went out to sea in. we had a very rough passage the wind blew by squarls, and would knock the boat on her beams end. before we could let the sail go, I got over all safe it was 11 oclock at night when I arrived at the house

Friday 17th I took a ride on horseback over to the old shanty at racktoon straits, from thire to California City and back again to the ranch, Gerow had started to fix up my business I wanted to see hm, but he lift for town that thire, I saw that thire was nothing much that I could do, so made yp my mind to go back to town and get ready to start for home

Saturday 18th this after noon a boat was going to town so I took another trip over to the bay. I arivved in town about 8 oclock in the evening. this time I had a pleasant passage

Sunday19th as luck I would have it I had a boat ship and go ver the bay again, with the row boat to help get the doctor over that has been attending Mr Buckelew, his health is very poor, I think he has got the consumption, very thing is truble and confusion here by the defactulty with the printing offace business. it was low tide when we got in the creek and we had to row against the tide all of the way which made hard work of it, we landed the doctor on a point far as we could get up. one man and my self staid with the boat untill the next tide came in, we went on shore made a fire and roasted so muy important trip to calive in, with a good cooking stove, and plenty of good provisions to eat I keep to work untill

Saturday 25th I beleave I have got to be quite a carpenter

Saturday 25th I started with Mr. Moore the carpenter to go down and finish the house on Rackoon Straits with a small boat with our tools, beding and provenider we have to take up our beds and walk here when we shift our quarters after we got thim we carried our traps ashore and found a place to sleep under

Sunday 26th when we came to cook our breakfeast I found we had forgot our frying pan, so I had to cook our beef stake and pan cakes on a tin plate and outdoors in the wind, at that, I are getting sick of this kind of living and I get back to old York town ware thay have good houses to live in with chimleys, and no fleas, I will be mighty glad, we finished the house on Tuesday morning at noon and was most out of patience and quite out of provisions

Tuesday 28th we went back to california city with the boat we had a hard pull against the tide and over the flats but succeded in getting in by 7 oclock

Wednesday 29th the sloop came over from town, I went over to the ranch house with some others hombreas and staid all night

Thursday 30th we started back again and started with the sloop for town, we got in at sun down. I find Mr. Buckelew is very sick the doctor thinks he has consumption so buisness will be stoped for a while he intends to take a trip down panama in the steamer Republic, I have fixed my bussines with Gerow so I can get off with the same steamer she will sail on Saturday so I will have to be moveing to get ready in time. I have got all my clothing and traps I brought out with me to dispose of to morrow. I have been washing out some shirts for to take on the voyage and it is now 10 oclock so I will bunk up for the night, to get rested for a hard day work to morrow, I found a letter from my Wife which Gerow got from the post offace it was letter No 7 with one inclosed from Father Brush my wife is down on coming to California, I will have a joke to play with her when I get home I will tell her I have come on for her, but guess not to bring her out to the flea Kingdom. This will be the last letter I will receive in California

Friday #1st hard to work getting ready for a start to morrow Mr. BR Buckelew & his brother will sail with me to Chargres, an a MR Smith will accompany me to New York

Saturday Feby 1st the last day in Clafornia the steamer starts at 4 oclock this afternoon every thing is upside down in getting ready for the start off-

February 1st 1851 Account of my voyage home from California. I left San Francisco on board the steamer Republic in company with mr Smith BR Buckelew + brother on Saturday afternoon at ½ past 4 oclock. The fogg was very thick when going out of the harbour. The sea rough outside with fair prospects of sea sickness

Sunday evening 2nd we are runing a long at a fine rate with a fair wind. but rough sea. I am agreeably disapointed about being seasick. I only felt a little squarmish at first but it is all over now. I slept good last night through all the noise and confusion. I can walk the deck quite strait. My being on the water so much crossing the bay has made quite a sailor of me. The weather is clear and could but we will soon run into a warmer climate. by to morrow or next day will make a change, Mr. Buckelew is going to chargres for the benefit of his health his doctor said a warm climate be good for him, his brother goes to take care of him Mr. Smith will go to New York and then to Boanis Aera South America ware his faimley lives. If no accidents happen I think we will have a pleasant passage, it is far differrant to start for home than to go from it. We have a first rate steamer with very good accommadations and I live in hopes of seeing home in 30 or 35 days

Monday evening 3rd we have had a very pleasant day. The sea is quite smooth, and we are runing or 10 knots we have not seen land nor sail since we left port. Nothing but the wide and the blue skye is to be seen, the stars shine bright this evening, with a new moon. The weather is getting warmer very day, it is just warm enough to be pleasant now, in three or four days we will be in Accapulca in Mexico, it will be hot enough then to roast eggs

Tuesday evening 4th fair weather and smooth sea. Our passage so far has been very pleasant. Nothing in sight yet but Mr.B is improving.

Wednesday morning 5th we came in sight of a barren Island called San Bineto, a large number of cow fish is following us they came close along side the steamer. I will take a sketch of the island before we run bye, this afternoon we passed the Nativadad Islands about ½ dozen in number thay are barren and uninhabberted. thay are rough looking places, it is a little over cast today. I enjoy the passage very much and keep good health

Thursday morning Feby 6th we had a melancoly seen a board this morning, an old sea captain a bout 75 years old died last night, and was buried in the sea. He has a faimley in the states and was returning home to see them, but he meet a watery grave, they launched him over board at 8 oclock this morning. He had the dysentarie before he left San Francisco thay sewed him up in sail cloth, tied some cast iron to his feet. The captain read a sermon over the corps and then he was thrown over board} he made but one splash and was all over. The sea rolled on as it rolled before. It was a hard sight but so it must be

Friday 7th we are in sight of land to day, on the northered of Cape St Lucas, we have a beautiful day. The sea is calm the weather is just warm enough to be pleasant we had to lat too, three hours this after noon to fix some of the machinery about the engine, we started again at sun down it is now 10 oclock at night and we are going past the Cape St Lucas about 8 miles off,it is a pleasant moonlight night , so we can set on deck and see the land quite plain. It is a barren mountainious place, not a tree or bush to be seen. I keep in good health and enjoy myself very much. I like it better then when I went out to, Calafornia. It is now getting so I will bid goodbye to the tip end of Calafornia and turn in for the night.

Saturday morning 8th sail oho hoy, a ship in sight this morning on our larboard beam, the first sail we have seen since we left port, a squall is coming up on our starboard quarter , the sea is covered with white caps, and looks angry. The skye is black, we will have wind and rain enough pretty soon, [ afternoon] the squall did not amount to much after all, we had a little rain and wind but it soon passed over. The worst of it went a stern of us, the weather is getting quite hot now, so we are glad to get under the awning in the shade, Saturday night once more- tomorrow will be another long Sunday, but we keep sputtering along each day brings us one day nearer New York, thay will be some happy hombres on board when we get thire

Sunday Feby 9th at noon. we are runing in sight of land this morning , off the coast, we have a good stiff brease with all sail sett. steaming and sailing along at a fine rate the sea is quite rough which makes some of the passengers a little sea sick or a little blue

In the gills, it is much pleasanter when the wind blows in our favour so thay can use the sails. It makes more excitement then when we are just steaming and rolling along so lazy, I have been reading a book on deck, all the mornings, a bout the last war. time seems to pass away very slow, and that makes it very tegous especialy when a fellow is going home, when I once get dar agin you wont ketch this child leaving very soon again. I expect we will get to Acapulco to morrow, I must try and geather som shells for my little wife, as she wrote me to bring her some when I com home, and as I are not very dusty probly som shells and other curiosity will do in the place, any how thay will last longer, the old steamer pitches a bout conciderable, wile I are writing this pepper gram. the bell is tolling for 12 oclock, a bell at sea sounds very doleful, especialy when it rings over the corps of those that meets a watery grave

Monday 10th when I went on deck this morning. I was supprised to see what thay was in the seenery from what I have seen in California, we are runing only two or three miles from the shore, on the coast of Mexico, the hills raises one above the other like the waves of the ocian, I can see the loafty peaks far back as the eye can reach, ridges hill and valleys forming many fanciful shaps, and so unlike the barren hills of California, these are covered with beautiful green trees, of a thousand different shades and collars what would some of my city friends give to behold this seen for an hour, those that are shut up in the brick walls of the crowed citys, how little do thay know how wide this world is made. the weather is very hot now, and the evenings moonlight , which makes it very pleasant I stay on deck until 10 oclock at night walking the decks or laying down on benches, wathcing the bright stars, as the tall mast tops moves gently on one side and the other, the sea is very smooth I can see the coast on one side, and the broad ocian on the other glissening like a large merrow and ends in the distance as if it run of a dam

Tuesday Feby 11th we arrived at Accapulca this afternoon at 3 oclock, after the captain of the port came on board Mr Smith and my self went a shore, we went to a Fandago ware thay was holding a wake over the corps of a little babe, wile we was thire some of the hands from off the steamer came thire and was a little drunk. thay went to dancing and kicing up a row with the Mexicans, thay took it all very well for some time, but the boat man got a going so high, thay was the bold Irish boy and of corse sould lick all the Mexicans in town, the natives colected a few poles and commenced pelting a way, and the way the paddeys left was not slow we bought some bunche of flowers made of shells, by the Mexican Senoritas, and a few shells + lo, I bought me a panama hat the sun is so hot it makes my head ache to wear a cap, when we came from the fandango down to the beach, we found some other rowdies had kicked up another row and was arrested by the guards and put in the scalabose, one of them got a baynot run in his after quarter, and one darkey cook got his head cut a little at the dance, our Captain went on shore got the men out of the calabose, we saw many curiousitys wile on shore, enough to pay us well for our trouble of setting up all night, the Mexicans treated us very well, we went in some of thire houses, and set down to rest our selves, Mr Smith speaks the Spanish language very well so we could talk with them, thay gave us oranges bananas coca nuts + lo the ladys all smoke segars. Thay are mostly hansom and cleavour thay have very small feet and hands thire teeth are very white and even. the most of them have very good teeth, Wednesday morning at six oclock the gun fired for us to com on board the steamer, we bought some bananas and oranges to eat on the passage down, we got on board, and started at 8 oclock for the panama, the steamer Columbia from panama and around cape horn came out the harbour as we went in, we also meet the steamer mail Carolina, three hours ___, she was from panama I suppose she has a letter for me on board. how I would like to get it, just to hear how all was at home. but if I have good luck and health I will soon be with them so I can both see and hear them. it will be a happy time for me if I find my little faimley all well, a collored man died on board the steamer yesterday he was buried at Accapulca the boys that got run at the fandango made a grate talk on board a bout the mexicans coming at them with swords and long knives, a number of small boys came out to the steamer wile in the harbour to dive after money the passengers would through over a dime and the little fellows would dive down after it, the water is so clear that you can see them sweming down in the water after the dimes than catch them in thire hands and put them in thire mouth when thay got thire heads out above the water thire cheeks will stick out with the money they get some of them gets quite a lot of change in this way

Wednesday 12th a pleasant day and smooth sea, we all keep well. Mr Buckelew is getting better he can walk about on deck, he thinks he will cross the Ismus, with us

Thursday 13th very hot no land in sight the fruit we brought with us goes first rate in the morning before breakfast

Friday 14th we are now crossing the bay of Queantipeck the weather continues very hot. no land in sight. the nights are so warm and pleasant I take my blankets and sleep on deck my health keeps very good only I are not quite so fleashery as I was when I left California. the hot climate takes the meat off a little. last year this time I had a party of ypung folks at my house and had just made up my mind to go to California

Saturday evening 15th we have a stiff breaze blowing against us with a heavy sea, so we go quite slow some of the passengers are sea sick. the waves run very high but the old steamer cralls over them like a toad over a tater hill my banannes are getting ripe so fast I cant eat them fast enough I wish I could keep som of them to take home with me

Sunday night Febuary 16th we have rather a unpleasant day to day. the sea continues running very high and the wind blows strong against us. we cannot walk a bout on deck much the steamer pitches about so, I have been laying in my birth most of the day reading and eating oranges, I cannot account for my good luck in not being sea sick, a grate many of the pasengers are at it calling the fishes over the side but a few other old sailors like my self are enjoying ourselves very well, some are singing others spinning yarns and so I think we will reach Panama a bout Tuesday noon, three or four Sundays more on the wide ocian and then I hope to be with my long looked for famliey and friends

Monday 17th the weather is a little calmer to day not much wind and very hot an other man is dieing to day with consumption. I saw some wales spouting at a distance thay do not come very close to the steamer

Tuesday 18th we are in sight of land this morning we passed three sails, we have a very pleasant day, I took a bath this evening in a big tub of salt water

Wednesday 19th the wind blows hard again this morning and the old big pot is all rilled up, but we keep spattering along in sight of land off the point that forms the bay of Opanama, the man that I spoke of the other day that is dieing of consumption is a live yet but no hope of his recovering. The land in sight is the coast of Gautimala, this afternoon we meet a small top sail schooner running before the wind it was a beautiful sight to see ho she road over the rough sea, the wind was blowing quite hard so she was soon out of sight. She was running very fast, we are now begging to get ready to land at panama, we will be in the morning I must write a letter to Gerow to night to send back by the next mail.

Tuesday 20th we arrived at panama at 12 oclock after an hours trouble and confusion, we succeeded in getting off the steamer so good bye to the old republic the good old ship that brought me over well and safe, we had a rough time in getting ashore and had to land on a reaf of rocks a mile from the city gate, this was an account of very low tide, now another trouble was to get the hombres to carrey our baggage up to the hotel, we got enough to take all but one small box and some traps, so I took the box and the rest of our party took the others, and we vamused for the hotel we put up at the Orleans hotel, after we got dinner and the mules engaged to cross the Ishmus, Mr. Smith and my self took a walk a bout town, the city did not look so filthy as it did when I passed through it before, the bells are all worn out or the nigers are to lazey to ring them for I don’t hear them ring much

Friday 21st We started at 5 oclock this morning Mr BRB an SMBuckelew Mr. Smith and myself, we had good mules and saddles with a fair prospect of a fine day we took one pack mule to carry our baggage, we marched very slow and steddy as Mr. B was not that very strong he could not ride fast, we had two guides with us one on a mule and one on foot, we went along first rate the roads was dry and and in good order, not much like it waswhen I crossed last summer, I had some sport with the hombrea that road the mule he went on a head and the baggage mule was tired to his mule tail and I road behind him to spur him up I gave the guide a little conive once in a while and I got him quite biusey so he fell spat of his mule three or four times, but he got a long very well we keep a head of the rest of our party most of the way, we arrived at gorgona on the river at 5 o clock in the afternoon. I had a sweet head ache for my comfort, after supper we engaged our boat and put the baggage in it in order to secure it so the darkeys could not make another bargen with some one else, Mr. Smith and I sleept in the boat all night to watch our trunks

Saturday 22nd we started down by 5oclock in the morning the passage down the river is very pleasant we had an awing over the boat to keep the sun off, I saw a Alligator about 10 feet long the river is very low so the boat tutches bottom in sum places, we keept the hombreas in good trim, with a little brandy so we got along very fast, we made three or four stops on our way down, we arrived at ½ past 8 oclock in the evening . the first boat in town, we took our trunks to a hotel and eat our suppers, took a short walk out on the beach of the old Atlantic , and then we went to bed for the night

Sunday Feby 23rd the steamer Empire city got last night from New York Mr. Buckelew went on board this morning and found his wife and child. She came on with a friend of his, he started off up the river with his famely and those that came with them , for Panama Mr Smith and myself took a walk over the old spanish fort or castle at the entrance, it has been a hansom place once but its most all in ruines now, the sun is very hot, and it is not good for us to walk a bout much, se we must keep still as possible, I saw three natives carring a coffen on a wheel barrow with a dead body in it, this is the way those that are so unfourtanate as to dye in the place are served nailed up in a box and dumped in some hole , it is a hard place here for white people to live the feavor is all most a sure death, a schooher is laying here to take a load of sick men from off the rail road that is building, but few of them will live to reach there homes I are now setting in our room we can see the wide atlantic ocian with the steamers waiting for passangers and the old fort and the Natives town made of low reed houses the crows, buzards are setting settinfg about on the top of the houses the steamer I have my ticket for has not arrived yet she is due to day and will start for new york on the 25th I brought a small monkey to carry home, to let the folks see one of the natives of the Isumus, I have not seen the Elaphant yet. I will get him if I can

Monday 24th I took a short walk this morning about town, the steamer Georger has arrived and will sail at 6 oclock tomorrow morning, so we will go on a board this afternoon after dinner we made the preparations to go on board, the sea was very rough and we had to go about two miles out to the steamer in a row boat it is a dangerous place in such rough weather. We succeeded in getting on board at 3 oclock all saife, my monkey was a little sea sick, he chatters away at me when I feed him if he lives I will have some sport with him when home

Tuesday 25th at 7 oclock this morning we pulled up anchor and started for Havana our first stoping place, the wind blows quite a gale and the steamer rolls very much, I begin to feel a little sea sick, this rough sea is to much forme or any weak srtomucks, however it will do one good I think it will prevent me from getting the charges feaver, so I went on the fore castle ware thire is the most motion to castup accounts it was not long before I began, oh Jisoes, I wish I was in New York, ware thire are no such big waves

Wednesday 26th we are runing past a small islandon our star board bow, the sea is a little smother and I have got over the sea sickness, we have a number of passengers on board that crossed the plaine to go out to Cali__, the poor fellows takes it very hard , to be sea sick, thay say thay may be darned if ever thay go to sea again, this afternoon we saw a steamer at a distance bound for chargres

Thursday 27th very pleasant weather, we have had a little squall of rain and wind every day sene we left panama it rained very hard at Charges.

Friday Feby 28th we passed th south west end of the Island of cuba at 2 olock this afternoon, it is a beautifull place, the land is level and covered with green woods we saw the light house and several habetations, the sea is very smooth and calm

Saturday march 1st we arrived at Hanava 8 oclock this morning. We got a passporte and went on shore, this is a splendid city, went around and looked at the principle places, and then took a coach and went out of town through the gardens and public squares, we went on to of a hill ware ther is a large fort, we could see from off the hill all over the city and surrounding country, it was a beautifull sight, we next returned to the hotel and eat ourdinner, after dinner we took a walk down on the battery it is a bout half a mile land and has a bnumber of fountains and hansom monuments on it in the evening after supper we went to the theatre thay say it is the hansomest in the world but I don’t think it equal to niblows garden the city is lighted with grasshoppers, thay perade the strets night and day the theatre is guarded by horse troops so everything is keept in good order, the Spanish Ladys seldom go out on foot thay all keep thire coach and horses or go carts I should call them, thay are made with two large wheels and long shafts, the wheels are behind the coach and the driver rides on the horses back some of them are coverd with plaited sliver, the driver has long leged boots laced up the side with sliver buckels on the foot. The coaches are all the same shape and size, I wish I had more time I would like to take a few sketches of the different places we have seen the performance closed at the theatre at half past 10 oclock, we walked back to the hotel and went to bed tired enough

Havana March 2nd Sunday. It is very hot today we walked a bout a little to see the fashious of the town in the evening we went out to the masqkeradi, on the public square, the milertairey band played every evening it is a grate holerday here now, I never laughed so much in my life as I did this evening , to see the many diffrent figures thay cut up with the funney dress and costumes, if I stay to morrow night I will get me a dress and have a little sport, I made a bargin with a german chemist at the hotel for a recpt for guilding gold and silver, I think it will be very usefull to me in my trade

Monday 3rd- We have just pulled up anchor for a start so good bye to havana, may we have a quick and safe passage to New York and find all well, the weather is black and stormy this morning, we will take it when we get out side the wind blows very hard from the north east the sea is very rough and the steamer has hard work to get along the sea was braking up over the fort at the entrance of the harbour as high as twenty five or thirty feet, it is the roughest sea I have seen yet, the air is quit cool

Tuesday 4th we have a very rough night of it the sea brakesd up over the bows of the steamer so it keeps the decks wet and sloppy, we passed two vessels this morning, I keep in my berth most of the time we are on deck the spray dashes up so it gives us a ducking of salt water, I have got another pet to take care of, an old man that put up at the hotel with us brought a parrot on board with him but he got so sea sick he could not take care of him so he gave the bird and cage to me, between the parrot and monkey it keeps a buisy attending to them, we are now in sight of the coast of Florada 20 miles of distance

Wednesday 5th this morning is very pleasant the wind has died away and the sea is quite smooth, we passed three or four vessels, no land in sight today

Thursday 6th I had the good luck to have my panama hat stolen last night, many of the passengers has been served the same way, so I took a list of names of those that lost any thing, and entered a complaint to the captain, I spoke to the offacer of the deck a bout it but he played little or attention to it, but the old man had a serch made but could find nothing, but a small pudill dog, he had the fellow put in Irons that took him the weather is getting cool and windy, the steamer is running a long at a fine rate we will soon be in port if nothing happens, we had a hard shower this afternoon and have a fair prospect of long storm

Friday 7th last night was a very dreary and stormy night the wind is blowing a gale from the north east, the sea is very rough, I fear we will have a hard time of it before the storm is over, the old man that gave me the parrot lost his son last night he was 17 years old his mother and father has been to havana for his health but it done him no good this is the sixth child thay have lost by the same disease, the storm keep getting worse our vessel pitches and rolls ver much

Saturday 8th the storm was very severe last night barrels tables chares and everything that was not lashed fast went pitching bout the ship, I sleept between decks in a cot to get out of the cold with a number of others, in the night the sea got so rough it sent our cots a sliding a bout the cabin, most of our cots got smashed, our lamps put out so we could not see one thing from another my cot took a slide across the deck severeral times but would come back to the right place and on it legs. It was the longest night I think I ever saw, the old ship would crack and snap when the sea would strike her, soon as I could see to find any way out I went on deck and got a lantern, I then went below to find my clothes some one place and some another everything was wet cold and mussey enough, all the bottles and decanters in the barroom got smashed, and the contents run out over the deck, old punch had on a long face when he seen his today was all split, we could have got in last night if it had not stormed so hard, thay had to run the steamer out to sea to keep out of danger. The fogg or mist is so very thick, thire is a port of the steamer called social hall ware the passangers goes to smoke and talk it is covered with oil cloth and is very slipery, so when the ship rolls the boy goes pitching from one side to the other, this makes sport for us and keeps us warm, we are heading in to the land now, and will I hope to soon be in sight of the harbour of the good old New York, it looks very dangerous on the water now the wind blows a stiff gale with rain hale and snow, the waves are runing 10 or 12 feet high we cannot stand on deck so we are oblidged to stay below decks, at 5 oclock we made sandy hook after the qurentine offacer came on board we went on shore and got up to the house at ½ past 10. All the folks was in bed, I soon woke them up after interducing friend Smith and talking over the news, we turned for the night

Sunday morning 9th I got up early went to the barbers to get some of my log hair cut off after breakfasting and seeing all the folks and getting my traps from the steamer, I started for the car to go up to the New Castle at 5 oclock in the afternoon, after an hours walk I reached the house any one can emmagin my happiness when I meet those so dear after a long distant separation,

This ends my voyage to California and back again, through troubles, dangers and pleasurs

B.F. Mc Creary

March 9th 1851a

Typed by Brad Bjorndahl

WILLIAM WEEKS DIARIES

1852

January 1852

Thursday, 1st Quite pleasant-mild- ground free from snow- I shot a mark a few times this morning for chickens- was not successful - We dined at Father's- Uncle Sidney & aunt Ellen were there. I carried Susan in a basket in which she sleeps - I took the honey from the hive into which some time since I drove some bees- The bees had deserted it-They did not return to it on Tuesday- I conclude there was no Queen in it.

Friday 2nd Cooler,-I have been at work at the mill room closet

Saturday 3rd Cloudy, wind N.E.- indications of snow. I did more work towards the closet and painted a portion of it- James Weeks & William Seabury returned to New York today.

Sunday 4th It commenced snowing during the night and the snow was afterwards accompanied by rain- This morning the trees were loaded with sleet, and it has been a drizzly and dark day.

Monday 5th The sun appeared to day & some of the ice & snow have thawed. I finished my closet doors and wrote a letter to father

Tuesday 6th Stormy- Rain this morning and snow this afternoon & evening- I have been occupied in putting my grindstone in order-painting

Wednesday 7th Several inches of snow this morning and the sleighing is very good- I went out this morning with my gun and shot a large grey squirrel & a quail- made some covers to protect the friction wheels of my grindstone from water- The stone is now in nearly perfect order. It is 22 inches in diameter.

Thursday 8th Milder- I made a short and unsuccessful excursion with my gun- After dinner took Mary & Archie a short sleigh ride. Gave the mill room closet a second coat of paint

Friday 9th Cloudy, a shower between 11&12 Am- I went to Wampmissic this morning in the sleigh-took an account of all the wood cut by Ackerly this winter, about 80 cords. Mary, Archie and I rode as far as Mordecai Homan's & made a call upon them- Father went to New York with early train & returned.

Saturday 10th A slight fall of snow during the night, the sun rose clear- Afternoon cloudy. I commenced after sharpening my planes upon the construction of a sofa table.

Sunday 11th A slight fall of snow during the night. Another this morning-cleaned up and the sun appeared this afternoon

Monday 12th Colder, Clear, Wind NW increasing all day & very high this evening- I have been at work upon the sofa table- Wrote a letter to Wm. H. Burgess, Father went to New York this afternoon.

Tuesday 13th Cold & Windy Mercury at 15 this morning. Uncle David Jones and Edward K. Bryer came down yesterday- went out to Longwood and spent the night- called here today- and spent the evening at Father's- Father returned home this evening.

Wednesday 14 Cold & Windy- Mercury the same as yesterday-milder this afternoon I nearly finished my sofa table.

Thursday 15 Milder- Thawed- I painted table-commenced a small closet for east room. wrote a letter to Herald respecting art Union signed Humphreys

Friday 16th Cold, frosty - morning, mercury down to 7 & at 9 O'clock. Cloudy & cold all day Calm slight sprinkle of fine snow nearly finished my closet- skated a few minutes on the pond.

Saturday 17 Windy, Cold on account of the wind. I went to Wampmissic & took an acct. of wood, cut by Akerly- also that cut for Father by the Albin's- finished the small closet, and did some other work

Sunday 18 The day was ushered in by a snow storm- Fast & fine, from the N.E. Archie did not sleep well previous to 12 O'c last night- Think he had taken a cold while out sleigh riding on Friday- We gave him a arm bath- he slept awhile & was troublesome again- we applied to his bowels a cloth wet with cold water- This seemed to relieve him & he slept till morning. Continued to snow all day, a cold storm.

Monday 19 6 or 7 inches of snow have fallen- a slight continuation this morning- a cold windy day- I have been painting closet- at work upon the upper room doors- Archie has a swelling upon his head the effects of a fall from a chair a few days ago.

Tuesday 20 The night past was a very cold one- A keen piercing wind prevailing- water froze in the west room- Mercury this morning at 1 below zero-( Though mine is not I think accurate) - It was perhaps colder than indicated by my thermometer- Snow has drifted and we have had no mail from New York this week.

Wednesday 21 Cloudy- Milder- Sleighing good- I commenced making a supportive frame for the bound volumes of the L.I. Star- so as to read them conveniently - Spent some time in thinking about it- Aunt Ellen called here- The cars arrive here to day with the mail-

Thursday 22 Cold, frosty night- mercury at 7 a.m. was 2 below zero- Clear & cold day- I worked awhile at the frame- The swelling still continues upon Archie's head, but we think it diminished.

Friday 23 Cold, sleighing still good- The cars have been much obstructed by snow. I rode to the station at 12 O'c but no cars have arrived from the west today- I finished the frame. Mary and I rode to Swezey's Corner.

Saturday 24 Weather moderating- somewhat windy today- I cut some tins for securing glass in sash- put the glass in the sash for the outside of bee house- I next put a handle to a putty knife & ground it- prepared some putty- put the putty in the sashes & nearly finished- Soon after 6 P.M. Archie fell against the stove in the west room & burnt his left hand quite severely- he cried for an hour- we first put his hand in some cold water- I then scraped a potato and applied the pulp to his hand, while I went to the store for some slippery elm- he fell asleep while I was gone- (about 9 minutes) On my return I made a poultice of elm, milk & sweet oil - & applied it, & changed it again at 12O'c

Sunday 25 Warm and pleasant- Thawing- Mother and I went to Patchogue this afternoon and attended service at the Episcopal Church- Revd Davis preached. We gave Archie's hand another dressing of elm. He slept pretty well last night- At noon we washed his hand & wrapped it in a clean dry cloth-it gives him no pain.

Monday 26 Cloudy with slight showers this forenoon. Clear and warm this afternoon- snow disappearing- I have been occupied in a variety of ways- finished the sash- made a back cushion for sofa table- assisted John in hanging up the hams at Gerard's smoke house- Archie's hand is recovering.

Tuesday 27 Clear and bright- Colder, windy- Capt. John S. Havens (of Moriches) called here this morning.

Wednesday 28 Warm and pleasant morning- Afternoon cloudy. I worked at the closet this morning- This afternoon put new leather to a pair of bellows for father- The one with which I played with when an infant- Father & Mother went to Longwood- Mr. and Mrs. Titus (Bellport) also took tea there.

Thursday 29 Thawing- bright and pleasant- Finished the closet with the exception of the door- Robert Smith & Charles Jones spent the afternoon & took supper with us

Friday 30 Cloudy- Sun came out- Thawed - I went to Wampmissic & took an account of wood cut by Akerly- On my way home I fell in with Uncle Sidney- Robert and Charles Jones at the Oak Island turnout- I dismounted and took an account of some piles of wood measured by them- This evening I attended a lecture upon electric magnetism at the Presbyterian meeting house in this neighborhood. The room was well filled and the lecture and experiments interesting.

Saturday 31st Cloudy- shower of hail & cold mist, chilly wind from the north east- I finished my closet and painted it- Wrote a letter to Burgess and one to E.B. Jacobs- Went to railroad with Robt. Smith,- Charles Jones returned home with the cars- 14 eggs laid by my fowls the month just finished- hail during the evening.

FEBRUARY

Sunday 1st This morning the ground is covered with sleet, cloudy, snowing at 5 P.M.- We were occupied in reading

Monday 2nd Quite cold- clear- slight layer of snow- I was occupied a portion of the day in performing a metallic conductor for the electro magnetism in order to avoid feeling the shock in the arms- I attended a lecture this evening of the Messrs. Swift- but my arrangement did not succeed as i did not make the circuit complete at my hands- heard of the death of Thomas Jones- grandfather's brother.

Tuesday Cold & frosty- moderated- I walked to Swezey's to see the Swifts & had some conversations with them - I invited them to call at my house on their way to the Manor- they did between 11 & 12- Examined my Apiary- I painted closet- next to the pond & skated a few minutes- Ice very rough.

Monday 4th Clear wind from the S.W. snow disappearing rapidly- Last evening it being calm & moonlight - a large hoot owl sat upon the top of the tall hickory tree near the wood shed- I fired at him from the door, but my was charged with fine shot & there was no apparent effect- I wrote a letter to day to the Swifts respecting bee feeding- attended the funeral of John Buckingham, at the meeting house in this village- he was buried in the burial place near Mill's store- Mother went with the early train to attend her Uncle Thomas's funeral.

Thursday 5th Clear- Thawing- I gave Archie a ride as far as the pond-Wrote a note to Charles Jones- Hear from Jacobus that my boxes of hives have arrived at Brooklyn- I commenced the construction of a bedstead for the west recess upstairs.

Friday 6th The ground was frozen this morning- Pleasant till 9 or 10 O'C. I walked to the station to send a letter to E.B. Jacobus- On my way return I went on horseback to Wampmissic and took acct of akerly's wood.

Saturday 7 Pleasant-grew colder towards evening- I worked awhile at my bedstead- Father went to Cold Spring with the afternoon train- I went to the station this afternoon after my boxes of hives which arrived with the freight train soon after 3 p.m.- Carted them (7 boxes) at two loads & put the boxes into the cellar- Archie's hand has fully recovered.

Sunday 8th Clear- Windy - Colder than for several days past- Wind N.W. - We gave Archie a ride through the woods- About 5 p.m. I walked to Mr. Petty's and engaged him to cut me some wood on Monday.

Monday 9th Clear- pleasant-chilly- I wrote a letter to W. Russell- added a little work to my bedstead-repaired Archie's horse

Tuesday 10 Frosty & pleasant- Cloudy and damp- Late in the afternoon - carted four loads of wood this morning cut yesterday by Mr. petty. This afternoon Lester H. Davis called to inquire about bees - I let my bees out today- We all called at the Reverend Mr. Bailey's

Wednesday 11th Rain during the night & high wind from the south west- damp and showery today- I have been occupied with small matters and preparing to go to New York tomorrow.

Thursday 12th It cleared off today & became pleasant - I went to Brooklyn with the early train- Recd some money for wood from the railroad Co, Sent $73 to Mr. W.H. Burgess by express, deposited one hundred dollars with Weeks and Co.- Made some purchases- went this evening to Burton's theatre & spent the night at French's hotel- Father and Mother returned home today.

Friday 13th Quite cold- sprinkle of snow- I did a little more business today- Spent the night again at the same hotel.

Saturday 14 The streets were white with snow this morning, & for an hour or two it snowed severely. At 8:00 I went to Brown's (dentist) at 13 Park Place & had one tooth filled and one extracted- I took my carpet bag & journeyed towards south ferry- made a few purchases at an auction store, called upon Edwards and Platt- then out to Brooklyn- bought some glass of little.

Saturday 14 returned home with the afternoon train- were detained by another train & did not arrive at Yaphank till 71/2 p.m.

Sunday 15 Cold frosty morning & chilly day mercury this morning down to zero- I gave Mary and Archie a short sleigh ride this afternoon.

Monday 16 Snowed during the night and slightly this morning- Archie was troubled during the night and at 12O'c we put a cloth wet with cold water around his throat, changed it a number of times, which seemed to relieve him & he slept well- I was occupied in writing to Capt. peck & Uncle Elbert, at Oyster Bay & also to dr. Nichols- This afternoon commenced putting tools in order to begin upon the hives which I received- put one section together- This evening I gave Archie some syrup of ipecac.

Tuesday 17 I contrived a pair of shears for cutting tin& directed Dayton how to make it- Death of Col. Floyd

Wednesday 18 Clear, windy- snow still lies upon the ground, but not sufficient for sleighing- Mary did our weekly washing

Thursday 19 Cold- mercury at 5 early this morning- I put together 12 sections being 4 hives- I bored some holes & arranged Zinc slides- Aunt Ellen & Amelia called here this afternoon. Hear of the death of Hewlett Hawkin's little boy.

Friday 20 Cold & Frosty 1/2 below zero at sunrise. I did some work in my shop this morning- This afternoon I went to the funeral of Hewlett's child at the village meeting house. This evening gave Archie a warm bath. Mother and Father attended the funeral of Colonel Floyd.

Saturday 21 Frosty this morning- I went to Wampmissic this morning & took account of wood cut by Akerly & also by father's wood choppers- i finished small mattress for the small bedstead- i skated awhile upon the pond - took Father's hams from Gerard's smoke house- Archie was sick at his stomach from having eaten too much today- gave him a wet sheet pack this evening for 3 hours- Completed my 31st year.

Sunday 22nd Fall of snow during the night- rain this morning- Clear this afternoon- occupied in reading- I find my journal meager as it is very convenient for references & shall continue it.

Monday 23 More rain during the night and this morning- sun came out- snow is disappearing-

Tuesday 24th Pleasant and mild, cloudy this afternoon- Archie seems to be recovering- Mary did our washing- I put together the pieces of 18 sections.

Wednesday 25 Was not cold enough to freeze during the night- mild high wind this afternoon. I began the labors of the day copying into one of the blank books- finished at 10. J Hull Osborn of Southold agent for heath insurance called here. Mr. Gerard made a call this afternoon. Joseph H. Titus married today.

Thursday 26 Colder, Clear- Froze, last night - I was busy copying until 10 O'c- Then began upon the sections- made the holes & places for slides in 24 sections and put the pieces together- Considerable interruptions Mr. Osborn called again & with him Anderson Gildersleeve (Carpenter) Osborn wished the latter to examine my sofa table- Susy Smith and Apollas came in & Uncle Sidney called after them - Made an engagement with him to run out Yaphank line- commence tomorrow.

Friday 27 Cold frosty morning- I started to meet Uncle Sidney & was occupied all day in running a line for him- did not finish- we reached Long wood about dusk- I remained to supper & Robert brought me home in a wagon- I feel pretty well fatigued

Saturday 28 Fall of Snow during the night several inches- continues this morning- followed by sleet and rain- I wrote an advertisement this morning respecting Gilmore's patent hive and this afternoon sorted the pieces for the hives.

Sunday 29 Very high wind during the night. I read & did some copying.

MARCH

Monday 1 Cloudy, Chilly. Wind north east- I wrote an advertisement respecting Gilmore's patent hive & sent a copy to the 4 county papers- Finished copying into the books- The number of eggs laid by my hens during the months of February was 128 - (12 hens)

Tuesday 2 Sleet and rain during the night, slippery this morning- This disappeared and it cleared & became colder this afternoon. I put covers upon the books I prepared the other day- Cut out 200 Zinc slides for the hives- put the cross bars upon a dozen sections- cut some fire wood.

Wednesday 3 Cold and windy- more like December than March. This morning I was occupied in putting the bars upon a large number of sections & this afternoon I put sections together and fastened them to the extent of twelve hives. Father went to New York by the afternoon train.

Thursday 4 Still cold- Afternoon indications of a storm- I wrote a letter making inquiries relative to Daniel Weekes who died recently at Shipharbour aged 117 years, inclosed it to the Post master of that place. Put sections together to the extent of 13 hives. Amelia Smith, Susan & Mother took dinner with us.

Friday 5th Snow this morning 3 inches deep- milder, thawed- John Perry (Irishman) cut his foot yesterday. I draped it several times today- I put together 5 hives making altogether 30 hives finished- Father returns home with the evening train.

Saturday 6th Cold Chilly I went on horseback to Wampmissic& took account of wood cut by Akerly & some of Father's choppers- This afternoon I constructed a small trough to contain some syrup for feeding the bees on one of the hives in particular. David Jones came down to Yaphank in the cars, he went to Long Wood this afternoon.

Sunday 7 Clear though too cold to be pleasant- Occupied in reading- This afternoon about 5 O'Clock- I walked into the Asparagus lot & started a hawk from the hedge adjoining the woods- he sat upon a tree not far off- I observed him put his beak as if he had been eating something and immediately returned to the house and procured a gun, (which was loaded) he allowed me to approach sufficiently near & I fired & brought him down- it was a large specimen of Cooper's hawk- On examining the spot whence the hawk flew- I found on of my hens dead & partly devoured-still warm- I miss one other hen from the twelve which has been carried off without my observing it.

Monday 8 Cloudy Cool, milder this afternoon, but appearance of a storm - I went to long Wood & we continued running the line I commenced the other day- we reached the County Road on our random line and returned upon nearly the tree line- did not finish- I reached home early this evening- The missing hen returned early in the morning- she had probably been pretty well frightened and concealed herself.

Tuesday 9th wind from the S.W. rain during the night and a dash of large drops this afternoon. I was occupied drawing a map of the line in dispute between Samuel Hawkins & Father & noting the positions of the marked trees- This afternoon we went to the station expecting to meet S. Hawkins who would decide whether to leave the matter to amicable arbitration or not. His son David came up & stated that they had concluded to leave it to arbitration- and named Dr. Miller as the person they had selected and father named Nathaniel Tuthill. We are invited this evening to a party at Mr. Titus's given in honor of his son and wife.

Wednesday 10 Clear & quite- like spring- Windy- I went to Mr. Titus with Robert Smith Amelia & David Jones. Reached there between 8 &9- Traveling bad - a large number assembled- almost every body present- I reached home about 3 )'C this morning- I went on horseback to Longwood before 12O'C and after dinner continued the line by compass. Returned to the place of beginning about 6 p.m. struck the stake.

Thursday 11th Cool, morning & evening- Clear - I went this morning to make some examinations of the lines in dispute between Samuel Hawkins & Father. The choppers are cutting off the wood upon Hawkins lot- Father, Mother & Aunt Ellen went this afternoon to Bellport to call upon Mrs. Titus, David Jones came from Long Wood.

Friday 12 Cloudy Pleasant- David returned home in the cars, sent to his brother Charles, one of Gilmore's hives- I brought Mr. and Mrs. Robert Hawkins from the station- They have just arrived from Brooklyn- Father and I went down this afternoon to examine the disputed lines- I made a fresh map of it- The Robins have been chirping merrily.

Saturday 13 Warm and pleasant like spring almost like summer- We went to the station at 9 O'clock to meet S. Hawkins & party with reference to the line- The whole day was spent without coming to a decision. Samuel Hawkins did not begin to talk till about 11 O'c- slight showers this morning.

Sunday 14 Cloudy- rain this afternoon- Occupied in reading and writing

Monday 15 Cloudy - Cleared off pleasant We went to the station - Mr. Hawkins & party- tardy as usual- Father made quite a speech and very much to the point- We adjourned at 3 P.m. The arbitrators are to give us their decision next Saturday.

Tuesday 16 Cooler- Pleasant- I wrote a line to Dr. Miller & N. Tuthill stating that I had some further facts to communicate in regard to the lines-I put together 12 sections after preparing for the slides & called with Father to see Mr. Tuthill- I went to Long Wood after my compass.

Wednesday 17- Cloudy-Sprinkle of hail & rain and about 1 p.m. snow fell in large flakes- high wind from N.E.- making a violent storm all the afternoon. I put together 12 sections- The arbitrators in the controversy of Hawkins versus Weeks. Employed J.P.Mills to run out a portion of the old line beginning at the upper end- Mills came out where I anticipated he would (if he obtained at starting, the true course of the line) The arbitrators at once decided in our favor & gave Father a written decision to the effect. Death of Susan Cornelia Peck.

Thursday 18 It snowed a portion of the night and then commenced raining- rain this morning, clear this afternoon- some snow still remaining - I put together 12 sections- some of my bees having gathered very thickly in one of the hives. I scraped some of them out and distributed to the other hives- drew a diagram to illustrate the disputed lines- called this evening to see Edmund Hawkins & explained to him the situation of the lines & cause of the error- also upon John Owen - Mr. Jagger called here to inquire about bees.

Friday 19 Colder- Unpleasant- I put together 12 sections- Wm. Hall called at Father's

Saturday 20 quite cold this morning and like winter towards evening- i went to Wampmissic & took an account of wood cut by Akerly and also of Father's choppers- repaired my flag staves - cut some wood

Sunday 21 Variable- bright, pleasant, chilly- I went with Father to the station after some potatoes (20 bushels) which he had purchased & which arrived on the freight train- this afternoon I went to Bellport & procured a few boards- Mary did our washing- I wrote a letter to Charles Jones- David Brush

Tuesday 23 Rain this morning- I put the bars or slats upon 24 sections- Wm. smith came home for a day or two

Wednesday 24 Colder- Sun appeared for a short time- cloudy- rain this evening- I put the bars upon 24 sections- I removed citrous melons from cellar, they were mouldy and beginning to decay.

Thursday 25. I was occupied this morning in looking over the cultivator respecting bees.- This afternoon Father and I went down to his woodland lot, near Gerard's Road- measured across the lower end- about the same width as the upper- Took an account of wood cut by Charles & Edmund Howell- Then went to the N.W. corner of the land he purchased of Uncle Sidney & put up a stake and bound stone. Father put in one other stone near the Fireplace Road.

Friday 26 Quite pleasant- wind from the south west- cloudy, at evening rain- I constructed a pattern for a casting for a part of my zinc shears. Removed honey and comb from a hive- opened apiary & let out the bees- observed them bringing pollen- probably from the maple.

Saturday 27 Shower at evening - I went to Wampmissic this morning & took an account of wood cut by Akerly and some of Father's choppers. Amariah Davis has been sentenced to hard labor in state prison, for burglary -stealing hens & c

Sunday 28 Clear and pleasant- we remained quietly at home reading.

Monday 29 Cool - Pleasant I went with the early train to New York - made some purchases at auctions- Spent the night at Dr. Seabury's- Dr. Fanning called here (Yaphank) to inquire about bees

Tuesday 30 Afternoon rainy- I spent the night at French's hotel- purchased some sugar and honey

Wednesday 31 Cold Storm- I brought a number of articles- returned home with the afternoon train- number of eggs this month 189

APRIL

Thursday 1 Cool Clear Windy- I have not been very industrious today- called to see Mrs. Meks(?) (the tailors wife) who has recently moved into the place & carried her some honey- Mary hears that her mother is quite ill. Amariah Davis whose name is mentioned on the previous page is the fellow who induced his sister in law to make a false charge against Father (see page 3) but failed in every particular.

Friday 2 Pleasant this morning- afternoon cooler- I wrote a letter to Doctor Fanning of Greenport- sawed off part of a hive which was too large- afternoon I raked off the asparagus tops with a horse rake- Later I took my rod & line & India rubber boots & went into the river below Swezey's - Caught two fine trout

Saturday 3 Cold Windy Father and I went to Wampmissic & thence to Wm. Hall's near the manor station. Hall intends on having an auction to day of some household articles- Is going to Virginia for a while- On our return I went to the woods & took account of wood cut by Akerly & others the past week- Towards night I waded down the river, saw several black ducks, but did not succeed in shooting any.

Sunday 4 Clear but cool- engaged in reading-writing

Monday 5Cloudy, cold, hail & snow storm at evening I went this morning to Wampmissic & removed some boards from an old fence near the yellow house- brought home a wagon load- Father, mother & Mary Seabury went to new York with the afternoon train- I carted two loads of firewood this afternoon & went this evening to the district school meeting. We received letters to day from Mary's Father and her brother Paige, the latter informs us of the death of his Mother on Saturday last.

Tuesday 6 A stormy night of hail and snow- the latter several inches in depth over a coating of hail- continued to snow moderately during the forenoon- i wrote a letter to John T. Hamilton (Oyster Bay) respecting bees & one to Dr. Thompson (Islip) informing him how to procure wax from the old combs- Mary wrote home - Recd a letter from David Carll (Dix Hills) inquiring about Gilmore's hives- This afternoon I went to Coram to attend the annual town meeting- a large number of people present.

Wednesday Clear, snow disappearing- I wrote a letter to John D. Hewlet (Cold Spring) and also to David Carll. This afternoon I painted one of my hives- Father returned home with the evening train.

Thursday 8 Cloudy I wrote to Wm. H. Cook (Bridgehampton) and to A. Croswell (Gilboa), Aunt Ellen and James Smith took dinner with us- This afternoon I rubbed the lime from the woodwork in the west room upstairs, preparatory to painting.

Friday 9 Snow storm this morning- disappeared as fast as it fell - i prepared some putty & stopped the nail heads & this afternoon painted the west room, except floor and doors

Saturday 10Clear and pleasant though windy- Archie was troubled with his cough about 11 O'c last night, applied wet cloth to his throat which relieved him- I went with father this morning to take account of the cord wood, which John Dolan has been cutting for him- whole amount 243 cords cut by John & his boys- This afternoon I finished the painting i began yesterday- The bees out in large numbers- Amelia Smith and Elizabeth Russell called here.

Sunday 11 Warm and pleasant this morning- cloudy this afternoon- Archie was restless during the night- we gave him the wet sheet pack upon going to bed & afterwards a tea spoon of castor oil- After being washed this morning he slept very quietly till 11 O'c- has seemed better today- This afternoon an alarm among the poultry- seized my gun & rushed to their rescue- just in the woods, a hawk flew up & alighted- I shot & killed him (Cooper's Hawk)- On examination I discovered a hen apparently dead, but on my approach she recovered and ran off.

Monday 12 Cloudy chilly- Mitchell was here cutting up my firewood- I puttied the nail heads in the west room floor & some of the crevices- Prepared some paint- did not begin painting until 5O'c- painted one half of the room- John has been putting manure upon the ground west of the apiary- for potatoes- Archie seems to be better

Tuesday 13 Cloudy cold rain storm this afternoon- clear this evening- I finished painting the west room floor- piled some wood under one side of wood shed- prepared 333 lbs. of guano for sowing upon my asparagus- by sprinkling with water & stirring in a large tub (one side of a hogshead)

Wednesday 14 pleasant & spring like the greater part of the day. M. Petty sowed guano upon asparagus field- I have been throwing some dirt about the apiary raising it near the building to make the rain run off- sprinkled some ashes &sowed some white clover seed- went over the asparagus rows with cultivator (once)- Heard the voice of the purple Martin.

Thursday 15 Commenced raining this morning & continued till late in the afternoon. I wrote a note to the editor of the Connector, inclosing $3 for advertising- also to Abel K. Baylis inquiring about peach trees for sale by him- put wire cloth upon five frame for the cellar windows at Father's house.

Friday 16 I went to Wampmissic this morning reached home about t 101/2 O'c- M. Petty began to plow the ground for potatoes. I assisted John between 2 & 3 p.m. in cutting 6 bushels of potatoes for planting- Soon after 3O'c alarm of fire in the woods, smoke could be seen from our house- All hands went- the fire commenced on the line of the railroad, a short distance east of the Hay Road- probably communicated by a spark from the locomotive- It burned towards the south more than a mile - we succeeded in extinguishing it- did not reach home till evening- heard the notes of the wood thrush.

Saturday 17 I put some posts in the ground between apiary & hedge fence to be a protection to my bee hives- removed the bee hives from the house & arranged them on the south side of the apiary- This afternoon cut and planted potatoes- finished planting-planted 9 bushels

Sunday 18 Cloudy, indications of an approaching storm- Occupied in reading- removed some honey from a hive from which the bees have departed- have 4 or 5 others in the same condition- Think the hives were too small, they are some of those which I purchased last fall.

Monday 19 Fitful showers during the night past- I wrote a letter to Baylis for a dz peach trees, inclosed one dollar- also to J,T. Hamilton- directing him how to make Gilmore's hives.- This afternoon removed the soil from the privy & fowl house- L'Hommedieu and brother came here leaving the tool chest of the former- Father went to New York with the afternoon train.

Tuesday 20 Rain during the night continues this morning- I prepared a form for conveying rights to use Gilmore's hive- removed the honey from a bee hive- Waded the river this afternoon as far as the head of Carman's Pond, saw four ducks but did not succeed in obtaining any of them.

Wednesday 21 Raining at intervals- a glimpse of the sun- I wrote a while this morning- carted a load of wood this afternoon- waded the river about a mile- saw no ducks- Recd a letter from D. Carll Jr. about bees.

Thursday 22 Quite cold this afternoon- On examining the deposit where I placed my cabbage last fall- I found half a dozen heads in a sound condition in part- This afternoon carted 3 loads of wood & took a load of stumps up the street for M. Overton who has been digging them in Father's lot- Amelia Smith, James and Apollas & Eliz Russell took supper with us- S.C. Hallock called here this evening, wishing me to write a deed for him.

Friday 23 Cold wind L'Hommedieu and brother Richard came here to work upon my apiary- went through asparagus lot with cultivator. John repeated it and harrowed - some turfs of grass are to be removed by the wheel barrow- Davis Norton called & took dinner- wished to see my arrangements for bees- I wrote a deed for Hallock this afternoon- Recd a dozen peach trees from Abel K. Baylis- planted 5 of them three on the north side of the apiary

Saturday 24 Clear but cool I went to Bellport & procured a few boards- reached home at 11O'c- L'Hommedieu & his brother at work for me- they enclosed the north end of the wood shed with some spruce boards- M. Petty was here cutting up my fire wood- I pay him 25cts a load for cutting into lengths suitable for my stoves- I planted 5 more of the peach trees- Robt. Russell came down with the evening train

Monday 26 Thunder in the southwest- April showers- I leveled the inequities of my garden - painted the north end of the wood shed- did some work at the apiary- I went to the station early in the morning to request the baggage master to procure some shad for me in New York- I went this evening but he had not procured any as they were small, scarce & high.

Tuesday 27 Cool & windy- I went to Wampmissic and took account of wood. I commenced two small closets for apiary- Went to the railroad after a barrel of lime & some cloth- Plowed my garden- wrote a chattel mortgage for Father- Henry Taft to James weeks

Wednesday 28 Slight shower this morning- I finished the closets & put the casings around them- commenced putting on the lath for wall- Mary has been preparing to set out for Gilboa tomorrow- Recd. a letter from Dr. Fanning

Thursday 29 Milder - windy and dusty in New York- Mary baby & I took the train at 71/2 O'c A.M. for new York- arrived between 10 & 11 O'c - went directly to the Catskill boat at the foot of Cedar Street- left Mary there while I went to make a few purchases- I returned and left Mary soon after three- James and John Smith are going by the same boat on their way to school at Davenport in this state- I returned with the 4 P.M. train soon after passing Jamaica- one car ran off the track & was thrown over upon its side, no lives lost, but a number were bruised & one lady had an arm broken - The locomotive was pushing the train& we were going slowly, else more injury would have been done- The freight train also met with an accident, near Brushville within sight of us- I did not get to Father's until 12O'c.

Friday 30 Cloudy for the most part- I have been chiefly occupied in putting on the lath at my apiary- Archie is staying at his Grandmother's.

May

Saturday 1st Cloudy, misty, damp - I wrote a letter to dr. Fanning Greenport- continued to put on lath at the apiary for a short time- At 12O'c went with the train to Wampmissic & took account of wood cut by Akerly, he has been cutting wood far from the railroad & near our east line- I returned with the afternoon train- i transplanted some strawberry vines into my garden also planted some onions.- No of eggs during the month of April is 15 doz- seven chickens hatched & living

Sunday 2nd Morning pleasant, afternoon cloudy- I wrote a letter to Mary- Asparagus begins to appear

Monday 3 Clear and pleasant- windy I finished lathing-painting a dozen sections of hives- Planted some more top onions- Sarah and Maria Russell came down with the evening train & went to Longwood

Tuesday 4 Quite cold & windy morning- Afternoon pleasant- I planted some white onion seed & a variety of seeds in Father's garden- commenced a closet or wardrobe for the north wing upstairs- Robert weeks came down with the noon train.

Wednesday 5 -Clear- warm I wrote to Charles Jones & a line to John Martin (Riverhead) to procure me some hair for walling- I went at noon as far as Swezey's to see a mason who was at work there. I have finished the closet with the exception of a door.

Thursday 6 Clear warm, similar to yesterday - I assisted in planting corn- I planted some hop roots in the ground in front of my house- put two peach trees (balance of the dozen) in front of apiary- I planted some bush-beans & sweet corn- This afternoon Lawyer Wickham & Dr. Preston (Patchogue) called here to inquire about bees/ Wm. Wickham purchased one hive.- This morning i cut some asparagus.

Friday 7 Warm and dry - finished corn planting- I planted a tree (apple) which I grafted 2 or 3 years since a few rods south of my house- Dr. miller called here to see my hives & c- gave him a bunch of asparagus- this afternoon I went on horseback along the railroad line to see if any fires were kindled from the locomotive- A spark from the 12 O'c train caught upon Uncle Sidney's land near Hay Road, but was extinguished without damage by some track repairers- On my return I constructed a box (size of a bushel) to send asparagus to market. Dr. Seabury came with the evening train. While at Wampmissic today I erected bound stones on the n & s sides of railroad & upon the line from stone B to stone C.

Saturday 8th clear- I planted some peas in my garden - I wrote a letter to Wm. Wickham Jr. & also to Dr. Reston next to the P. Office & heard that Mary was walking home from the station- met her upon the Mill-dam - She came from Gilboa alone- She and Suzy- This evening I set two steel traps near my hen coop Last night some animal came and destroyed three of my young chickens

Sunday 9th Cooler- Archie has been out doors, walking about

Monday10th - shower this morning - I have been very busily engaged cutting asparagus & tying into bunches- I sent off by the freight train at 10 O'c sixteen bunches & have cut so many more- Two small boys were here for an hour or two & cut a wheel barrow full of smaller sizes

Tuesday 11th I was up very early & constructed a box (capacity 11/2 bushel) & cut a small quantity of asparagus- This with what i cut yesterday afternoon made 21 bunches- sent it to Brooklyn by freight train- L'Hommedieu was here putting on the green blinds, which he has been making for me, did not finish- painted 33 sections of hives- vegetation has come forward very rapidly within a week- Peach and cherry trees are in blossom- They were all down from Long Wood & took tea at Father's

Wednesday 12 Commenced raining this morning- a fine rain - I was out in the rain cutting asparagus- I put up 12 bunches to day- did not send off any- I walked to the station on the arrival of the 12 M train. Returned home & went to the freight train between 1 & 2 p.m.- My boxes were not returned to day. I constructed a small frame for expediting the bunching of asparagus

Thursday 13 Cloudy- some rain While John cut the asparagus, I constructed a box to contain it- I put up 12 bunches to day & sent off with what I cut yesterday. 24 bunches sent it by the afternoon passenger train. My boxes were returned by the freight train- I carried five bunches to J.P.Mills store & directed it to be sold at 6 cts per bunch. I went to Swezey's to see the mason- There is some possibility of me securing his services. sent a hive and bee mask to Dr. Fanning, also sent a mask to John Divine Hewlet. Caught the animal in the trap last night, but he escaped.

Friday 14. Fair weather- Cut a small quantity of asparagus this morning & a larger quantity this afternoon- I went to the station at 12 O'c & recd the return of my asparagus of yesterday and the box.

Saturday 15 Damp Foggy - sent off by the afternoon train 16 bunches & sold five at the station. Recd a letter from dr. Fanning inclosing $2 for his mask

Sunday 16 - Mary, Archie and I took a short ride this afternoon through the woods - On examining a hive that seemed destitute of bees, I found in it only a queen, all others had perished or deserted.

Monday 17 Pleasant, Cloudy I have been putting some glass windows in three sections on the front and rear of each- went to the station at 12O'c. This afternoon carted a load of sand from Dayton's premises near the Mill pond. cut two bunches of asparagus this evening- could not see very well- wrote to Dr. Fanning.

Tuesday 18 Calm and pleasant I was up early and commenced cutting asparagus- Cut and prepared 18 bunches & sent off a box containing 20 bunches- I went to the station at 12 O'c also on the arrival of the afternoon train by which I sent my box. About 3 p.m. while looking into one of the hives in the back, a bee attacked me suddenly & stung me on the upper lid of the left eye- It swelled considerably & deprived me of the use of my eye- I made some covers to the windows in the hive mentioned above- grandfather Jones drove from Cold Spring to Longwood yesterday alone - the horse wagon

Wednesday 19 Very pleasant- i painted the hive finished yesterday & took some lime out of the ground where it was deposited in barrel some time since & partially prepared it for the wall at the apiary- Went to Father's & planted more garden seeds- pumpkin, cucumber, muskmelon& c- Grandfather came down from Long wood- I cut some asparagus (6 bunches) and carried it to the station at 12 O'c- I was engaged to cut the above quantity - recd returns of that sent off yesterday- The Russells went to Hicksville by the afternoon train, I went to the station with them- On my return I saw very large swarms of bees upon the apple tree near the apiary- I prepared my glass hive & hived them in the top section which was nearly full of bees - I put two other hives in readiness for other swarms- Father went to new York with the early train & returned at evening

Thursday 20 Cooler clear windy - I prepared the hair to mix with the lime. The mason came about 7 O'c this morning & has put the first coat of mortar upon the bee house- he got through this about 5 O'c I have been assisting him and felt much fatigued after he was gone I slaked some lime & strained it preparatory to the next coat.

Friday 21 Morning quite cold -windy I was cutting and tying up asparagus all the morning - sent 23 bunches by the afternoon train- I have planted this afternoon in my garden- watermelon (two varieties) muskmelon, lima beans, sweet corn, cabbage & egg plant seeds.

Saturday 22- Clear and pleasant- The mason came about 11 O'c & at the close of the afternoon had finished the wall of my apiary. Mary made some soap using soda lime

Sunday 23 shower this morning & distant thunder - We remained quietly at home

Monday 24- Rain during the night - sun shone out & 4 hives threatened each to send forth a swarm, but the clouds checked them - I cut 16 bunches of asparagus & sent by the afternoon train,. father and Mother went to Oyster Bay by way of Hicksville as they heard that grandmother Weeks was not as well as usual- This afternoon i have been clearing away the mortar box & filling up & turfing over the hole where I had deposited my lime some time since- feel much fatigued.

Tuesday 25 Clear, Warm - A fine swarm of bees just before 12m- they clustered upon one of the two cedar bushes I put up for them yesterday. About 1 P.M. another swarm issued and clustered near the ground on the south side of the hedge- Grandfather went to new York by the afternoon train. At 5 p.m. I started for Wampmissic on horseback & took account of wood cut by Akerly- reached home at 61/2 p.m.- cut a bunch of asparagus and carried it to the train

Wednesday 26 Cooler, calm I put two hives in readiness- cut some asparagus & carried to Mr. Floyd- This afternoon cleaned out the lime & dirt from the apiary & painted some upon the south side- Archie's sting has nearly closed his left eye- A hen came off with ten chickens.

Thursday 27 Commenced raining very early this morning & afternoon- I have been painting the woodwork on the inside of the apiary- I weighed yesterday the two swarms

Friday 28 Cloudy - damp air from the ocean - some swarms of bees are prevented from issuing by the weather - Father went to Oyster Bay with the afternoon train- Grandmother Weeks died last night- I have been painting & c, about the apiary- Put another hive in readiness- Mary Archie & I rode to the station on the arrival of the late train- Grandfather returned to Longwood with Robert Smith-

Saturday 29 Damp similar to yesterday- I prepared two hives more- Put hinges on the window shutters of apiary- between 1 & 2 p.m. assisted at the building of a barn frame for Edmund Hawkins- I drove to the station at 7 p.m. I expected to find some fish at the station but none came.

Sunday 30 Clear pleasant- high wind from north west- I cut some asparagus & sent to Reverend Bailey- Grandmother's funeral was to be at 2p.m. Grandfather came here from Longwood & will remain all night-

Monday 31st Quite cool early this morning- clear & pleasant - Grandfather started for Cold Spring soon after breakfast- L'Hommedieu has been at work upon the apiary putting up the 2nd shelf & c - about one O'c p.m. a swarm issued & I found them clustered upon a tree near the ground, south side of the hedge- hived them without difficulty some animal entered my fowl house last night & broke six eggs under a hen sitting- I have laid a trap for it.

June

Tuesday June 1 Pleasant, clear _ I have been hard at work finishing my apiary- Father Mother returned home at 12 O'c- a swarm of bees issued about 2p.m.& at first clustered in two divisions about 2 ft apart- I thought there might be two swarms, but they all came from one hive- In a few minutes the bees in one cluster began to fly to the other & I concluded the queen was among the latter & hived this which proved to be correct- About 7O'c I found a weasel dead in the trap- he was caught during the day- It was a small one.- My hens laid during the month of May 226 eggs.

Wednesday 2nd Warm- slight shower- distant thunder- My work when not interrupted has been upon the apiary- A swarm of bees issued from the first hive which swarmed, (May 19th) & after circling in the air they began to cluster upon & enter the hive which contained the swarm yesterday- Thinking these might be a queen with them I removed the top section of this hive to two other sections & was intending to complete the first sections with another top- but the swarm of yesterday rushed forth & all the remaining bees & clustered upon an apple tree- I hived them once or twice & succeeded in making them remain. I examined this mass of bees but was not able to find the queen- I think there was no queen with the swarm which issued to day- The latter went into a number of hives & quite a large number were killed by the bees of those hives.

Thursday 3rd Warm- windy- Thunder shower- Rainbow and glorious sunset- I have nearly completed the apiary, have been painting & c- 3 or 4 swarms of bees are ready to issue but they seemed to be aware of the showers which was approaching.

Friday 4th Showery - I painted a portion of the interior of the apiary- Put the glass in the small sashes near the hives- Recd another letter from Mr. Crossman

Saturday 5th Clear & cooler- windy- I painted the north side and east end of apiary- Put some wood under my shed & hoed in the garden- John went through the asparagus with cultivator- This afternoon he carted 3 loads of wood & I went with him after a fourth- I feel pretty well tired after the labors of the week- The bees in the hive of June 1st have all deserted. I think the queen was lost the other day- another mass of bees came out today & entered a hive from which a swarm had issued & it is now well filled.

Sunday 6 Quite cold- wind from the southwest- Occupied in reading- We walked as far as the river & this afternoon went to susy's grave- some flowers are in bloom there.

Monday 7 High wind from south west- A storm may be approaching- I wrote to Mrs. Crossman. prepared more hives- A small swarm came out of the hive which I mentioned on Saturday as well filled- They clustered upon one of the new hives- I searched for the queen & at length found ir & put her into the section & succeeded in hiving them- a small body of bees afterwards came from the same hive & clustered upon an apple tree- I put them into a section & emptied it near the former & united the two bodies- I also took the comb & honey from an old hive & turned the balance of the bees into the swarm swarm of today- I did not discover any queen in this hive but saw some small patches of comb containing larve- This evening I removed my new hives of bees into the apiary- Mitchell has been hoeing in the rows of asparagus & finished it- E.A. strong & family came from New York to Father's, by the late train

Tuesday 8 Dark stormy - I finished the balance of the 16 hives- they are all in complete order- I have had some extra work in stopping the holes upon the upper part of the back of each section- deeming them unnecessary. Mary washed yesterday & finished her ironing to day- I moved the small swarm into apiary

Wednesday 9th- Clear- high wind from the south west- a swarm of bees about 1O'c p.m.- I split some wood & put some under the shed- made a new tongue for the little cart- sharpened tools & c- Kate Floyd Jones married this evening.

Thursday 10 Violent wind from W. S. west - I have been quite industrious- put together after preparing the holes & c the pieces for 12 sections & painted them- Archie & I walked to the store & purchased a straw hat for him- his first one,- Put some wood under the shed - Mr. Petty was here cutting up my fire wood-

Friday 11 -I carted 4 loads of wood this morning- worked in my garden- prepared some wooden plugs for the hives- assisted in planting the balance of Father's garden-

Saturday 12 - Clear warmer- I commenced constructing an observation hive- worked in my garden. The Strongs left for new York, by the afternoon train- Archie has become a very good horseman & rides his wooden horse at full speed- Mr. Petty cut 4 loads of wood for me.

Sunday 13 - Calm and quite warm - a swarm of bees issued about 1 O'c- Picked some strawberries for supper from the bed in asparagus field

Monday 14 warm - I carted 3 loads of wood this afternoon and labored quite hard as some of the sticks were heavy- a swarm issued between 9 & 10 & another about 12.

Tuesday 15 -Very warm- I planted a few seeds & have been expecting some swarms to issue- worked a little at my observation hive- This morning Father and Mother went to Dr. Miller's to attend the funeral of the Dr's son DeWitt was drowned last Saturday afternoon at Fire Island- M. Petty has finished cutting- has been here all day- Quantity of wood cut this spring for firewood is 15 loads.

Wednesday 16 Very warm - The day closed with a thunder storm- I constructed a hive with a glass at the back of each section- used it in forming a new hive- The top section of my first swarm & two new sections.

Thursday 17 - we were all rather restless last night on account of the moschetoes- This has been another warm day- I painted a dozen hives- some of the first which I put together.- I wrote to Edward's and Platt in answer to a note from them respecting the purchase of some of my bees- a large swarm issued this afternoon. I put a glass in the back of one section - Father went to New York with the early train & returned at evening.

Friday 18- A little cooler than yesterday- I put the new strawberry bed in order-Transplanted the cabbage plants about 80- feel quite tired-

Saturday 19- Pleasant- I worked a short time in my shop- afternoon put the cellar in order- preparatory to moving the cooking stove into it- just at night moved it down

Sunday 20 - Warm- pleasant slight shower

Monday 21 - Quite warm I did get some work upon my observatory hive- This afternoon I attempted to drive the bees out of some of the hives- succeeded in getting the queen out of one hive- used a pair of bellows & tobacco- Mary did our washing- Father and Mother went to Long Wood to drive Chas J. Smith (Mastic) & his bride- were the important guests

Tuesday 22nd High wind - I have been very busy trying to dislodge the bees from the old hives- succeeded in getting the queens out of two hives but lost quite a large number of bees in one of them

Wednesday 23- Cooler - I broke up several old hives but did not succeed very well in securing the queen.

Thursday 24- morning showery- I went with the afternoon train to Greenport- visited dr. fanning- went to see his bees- saw several bee keepers.

Friday 25 - Windy- I returned home with the early train- cleared up about the apiary - went to the station- dr. Seabury & wife & two children came in the cars.

Saturday 26 Clear - About 6 O'c I went to the station in wagon and conveyed the six hives containing bees- went down again to meet the train at 71/2 A.M.- I worked in my garden & again went to the station to convey a dozen empty hives sold to Edwards and Platt-

Sunday 27 Pleasant though windy -This afternoon Wm. Russell & wife and his brother Robert called here.

Monday 28 Clear - I worked in my garden- Mary did washing- Archie thumped upon a hive & was stung in 2 or 3 places.

Tuesday 29 - Cloudy windy warm - I cut off the lower part of two hives (common) in order to make them of uniform height with two others which I design to place in the apiary- wrote a note to Chas Jones- finished observatory hive and painted it- during the night some animal found its way under a coop and destroyed 9 out of ten young chickens- I have set a steel trap for it-

Wednesday 30 warm cloudy - need of rain- Father is procuring his hay this week- I was up about 4 O'c & visited the trap- found a polecat fast by the legs and killed it- I prepared some boxes & shelves for the backs of two hives in the apiary- put them on

July

Thursday 1 Warm, varied with sun & clouds- I cut off a portion of 16 boxes to make them smaller for storing honey- worked in garden to- Reverend Walton & wife came with the 12O'c train & went to Longwood- he married Ann Seabury- The number of eggs in June is 157- several hens were sitting & several with chickens

Friday 2nd Cloudy, cleared off, high wind from N.W.- I took nine old hives to the station and went again at 1 p.m. to see that they were put into the freight train for Riverhead. Some which contained bees last fall and which I promised to return to Terry & Wells. I constructed a platform for some old hives which I think of putting into the Apiary- Drove the bees out from an old hive.

Saturday 3rd Cool, dry, windy - Dr. Fanning called to see me this morning- I put the glass in the observatory hive and then drove the swarm mentioned last evening (a small one) into it- The dr. returned with the 12O'c train- I walked to the station with him - Removed the stove from the westroom- Mary finished a cap for me.

Sunday 4 Pleasant- I fixed the seats in the west room- Reverend Walton had service- quite a number of the neighbors attended- afternoon, Father went to the Middle Island Church to the funeral of Phillip Mills- The swarm in the observatory hive I think had no queen and and were dispersing- a small swarm issued from one of the old hives and this I have put into the observatory hive.

Monday 5th - Rain much needed - I went to Hicksville on the 71/2 O'c train - waited there about two hours then went with the stage to Coldspring, arrived at Uncle David's at 121/2 O'c- afternoon accompanied grandfather and Uncle David's sons to the trotting course of Ezra Smith - returned at evening reflection that the afternoon had not been spent very profitably.

Tuesday 6th - Still warm Assisted Charles to drive out a few swarms of bees- Then Edmund took me in a wagon to Oyster Bay- Saw John T. Hamilton & recd pay for a right to use Gilmore's hive - dined with Uncle Edward- took the steamboat at 5 p.m. and arrived in New York after six p.m. - Left my carpet bag at French's hotel and went to the Bowery theatre to see Lola Montes.

Wednesday 7th- Still warm & dusty – Purchased some small articles & a barrel of sugar- called to see Edwards and Platt & received the balance of money for bees & hives- returned home with the 4 p.m. train – I find that the swarm in the observation hive- have been very industrious

Thursday 8th. - I prepared a suitable place in the Apiary for the observation hive - also prepared the four old hives and moved them into the Apiary- at evening, went to the station after my barrel of sugar. William H. Smith came down with the late train- is not very well – has the situation of conductor on the Hudson River RailRoad – recd. a letter from Mr. Wickham Jr.

Friday 9th. -Warm and dry- did some work for Apiary and fitted up an old tree trough – wrote a letter to Mr. Wickham Jr. – the queen has left the observatory hive.

Saturday 10th. -Warm and dry – I have watered my garden for several nights past – I prepared 10 boxes and placed them on the top of five old hives – Robert Smith (Mastic) and Judge Bill (of Lime, Conn) called to see the apiary this afternoon – instructed the bee trough – began to feed my bees

Sunday 11th. -Cloudy warm – we remained quietly at home.

Monday 12th. -Sultry – an effort at a shower but fails to – ground dry and vegetation suffering for the want of rain – I cleaned up my shop and constructed a bee trough – watered garden – Mary did our wash – Mr. Longbotham called to see the apiary .

Tuesday 13th. -Warm and dry – Archie and I walked to the blacksmith shop – Dayton prepared 3 rods for fastening the apiary windows – this afternoon constructed 2 sets of shelves and prepared 6 boxes and put them at the back of the hives.

Wednesday 14th. -Warm, sun and cloud a light shower which allayed the dust. Mary made a pair of curtains for the apiary and I prepared 2 larger boxes for the bees to store honey.

Thursday 15th. -Warm, dry. The rain of last evening did not penetrate the ground – mere surface. I put the 2 larger boxes on the back of 2 old hives – constructed a small feeder for feeding the bees within the house – Mary prepared 2 more curtains.

Friday 16th. -Warm, cloudy. – constructed another feeder for interior of house – William Smith called and took supper with us.

Saturday 17th. -Commenced raining during the night and continued this morning – a fine shower after the long drought. I put on 4 small boxes – purchased a hive of Gerard from which 2 swarms had gone – there were a few bees remaining and I helped to find a queen for my observatory – I drove them out but did not discover any.

Sunday 18th. -Cooler – we remain quietly at home.

Monday 19th. -Cool, clear and pleasant. I went to the station – saw Egbert Smith’s brother of Charles Jeffrey – he is about going to California – I then rode on horseback to Wampmissic and took an account of the wood, which Hiram Edwards is now cutting – afternoon, constructed 2 small feeders – father went to Wampmissic with Mr. Higgins to measure the wood at the station there. – Archie is 21 years of age.

Tuesday 20th. -Cool night – day pleasant carted 30 wheelbarrows of wood into the shed – writing & c

Wednesday 21st -Clear-hot sun – I constructed a small feeder – this afternoon I commenced boiling the wax form the old combs

Thursday 22nd. -Clear- scorching sun – I finished trying out the wax – constructed a shelf and put on 2 more boxes – Mary drew water – I watered the garden

Friday the 23 -Clear – scorching sun – the ground parched. I constructed a feeder – picked a few berries in the swamp – called to see Mrs. Robert Hawkins who is sick – carried her some honey – went to the pond to catch some perch – caught 9 - I use them to draw the bugs for the young chickens

Saturday 24th -Cooler, calm clear this morning put under the shed 20 wheelbarrows of wood – this afternoon constructed 2 small feeders. A daughter of Henry Nicoll aged 3 or 4 died today at Mastic

Sunday 25 -Clear, present. I arranged the seats in the west room – Dr. Seabury had service at 10 ½ O’c. the room pretty well filled. Susie was baptized under the name Susan Amelia – she behaves very well, made no noise – service this afternoon at 4 pm.

Monday 26- Several fine showers- This afternoon went to Mastic with Father & Mother to attend the funeral of Henry Nicoll’s child 4 years old in June last- Played two games of chess with Dr. Seabury

Tuesday 27 – Clear cooler.- No traces of the rain of yesterday- Constructed a feeder this morning- Took Mary and the children a short ride as far as M. Homan’s-

Wednesday 28 Clear & pleasant. – dry- Constructed a larger feeder for one of the common hives. About 6 p.m. went into the swamp & picked a few berries- Archie was sick at his stomach this morning- I gave him a ride in his cart through the woods- Killed a blacksnake 41/2 feet in length.

Thursday 29 Clear, high wind from sw- put the feeder constructed yesterday in place & began to feed the bees in that hive- Prepared a box also for surplus honey – picked some berries between 5&6 p.m. Grandfather Jones called here came from Coldspring to Long Wood day before yesterday- Robert Jones came down today,- Vegetation needs rain- I have been watering the garden.-

Friday 30 Shower during the night & a little rain this morning- I removed one of the old hives from the apiary & cleaned it out- found some honey,

Saturday 31 – Clear & warm, cloudy towards evening with a sprinkle of rain- assisted John in digging potatoes a portion of both morning & afternoon- they are of fair size, but the dry weather has prevented a greater quantity.

August

Sunday 1 – Pleasant – cool – afternoon Mary & I with the children, rode to Long Wood- number of eggs in July is 126.

Monday 2 – Cool nights- day pleasant- afternoon a fine shower- some hail with it- I assisted in picking over the potatoes, also in digging- Writing an article for the “Plow”- picked a few berries- Robert Jones took supper with us- Arrived by the evening train.

Tuesday 3rd – Cool & pleasant – Afternoon fine shower with some thunder- assisted a while in digging potatoes. Mrs. Kate Jones called here _ I went to the station for grandfather on the arrival of the evening train.

Wednesday 4th morning pleasant, the latter part of the afternoon & evening rainy- Sarah Maria, Mary and Miss Onderdonk called here to visit apiary. They went with Mother & Robert Jones to mastic- John & I picked over the balance of the potatoes- the whole quantity is 50 bushels- I have been copying my article for the “Plow”

Thursday 5th – Cool & pleasant.- Considerable rain fell last night. I finished my article for the plow. 6 pages of cap.- dated it at Clarendon & signed Jesse Humphrey’s – it is a review and commendation of Gilmore’s hive – it is doubtful whether the editor will have it published- Mother had quite a number of guests to supper- I froze some ice cream- Sent off 14 bushels of potatoes by the freight train- hear the price has fallen to six shillings

Friday 6 slight shower, - pleasant – I went to New York with the early train – sold a portion of potatoes for 81 & 5 bu. For 871/2 per bushel- But not being present when they were measured the rascals made only 13 bushels.- I made some purchases and returned home at evening – Robert Jones went home today. I left my communication for the plow at the place where the editor’s office is.

Saturday 7 – several showers, thunder – sun- Grandfather went to Coldspring- I removed a box of honey weighing 4 lbs.- went to the station after a barrel of sugar.

Sunday 8 Cloudy – slight –showery- warm- Father & Mother with Sarah Maria, Mary Ann & c went to Patchogue to church.

Monday 9 Cloudy, varied with sun- thunder showers- went down father’s well after bucket- Wrote to D. Carll Jr. – prepared a small box for the bees- resumed work on the bedstead commenced some time since.

Tuesday 10 morning sunny, afternoon cloudy _ I worked in my shop- picked a few fine berries in the swamp About 12O’c- afternoon went to Wampmissic intending to take an account of the wood not yet carted, but S. Raynor not being there I was obliged to return without accomplishing it. Mary, I & the children rode as far as Mrs. Howell’s-

Wednesday 11 – Considerable rain fell last night- I continued work upon bedstead- removed several boxes of honey- At evening went to the station after Dr. Phillip Jones who went to Greenport today on the excursion train.

Thursday 12 Clear & warm – Dr. Jones & father went to New York this afternoon- I went to Wampmissic & took an acct of 500 cds of wood lying in the woods- sold to the railroad.

Friday 13 Clear & pleasant - I have been rather idle. Carried Dr. Seabury to the afternoon train- Went with Mary & the children to convey Mrs. Phillip Jones to Long Wood. Went to the station on the arrival of the late train after Father.

Saturday 14- Clear & present - At work in my shop- afternoon walked to the store with Archie.

Sunday 15 Clear & pleasant - Mary & I walked out with the children.

Monday 16- Clear, bright sun- I carted a quantity of wood into my wood shed- went in search of some berries, but picked only a few-

Tuesday 17 Cloudy with light sprinkle of rain- I wrote a few lines to Dr. Fanning and to Charles Vail - Carted in some wood- At evening waded down the river expecting to see some wood ducks. - saw only a blue Heron which I would not shoot at- Mary Ann Jones has taken up her abode with us for a day or two.

Wednesday 18 - Cool morning - bright sun Calm & warm- I worked a while in my shop- Mary Ann went to the beach with the Smith's of Long Wood- I removed two boxes of honey, but had the misfortune to shove one of them out of the window of the apiary, which broke the combs & I was obliged to remove them-

Thursday 19 Warm & Clear, dry- I worked in my shop for a while- Mary Ann returned here- James D. Jones is at Long Wood.

Friday 20 Cloudy afternoon appearance of rain- The Roberts of Mastic & their cousins from New Utrecht called here- Dr. Jones called here- For my own part I did not accomplish much.

Saturday 21 No rain- ground dry- I went to the early train to send a basket for some peaches- I finished bedstead & put it in place. Remove the 10th box filled with honey.

Sunday 22. - Clear and pleasant- Mary and I went with the children, a short walk- Mary Ann went to Long Wood this afternoon- Mary & the children rode along.

Monday 23 - Cloudy I prepared a few boards to catch the drippings of rain from the roof of the apiary- Split some boards &c- Wrote to dr. Fanning and to Paige Croswell- Mary not only did our washing but wrote to her Father and brother Kellog-

Tuesday 24 Warm - bright- I painted the bedstead &c- Uncle Robert Weeks & wife arrived at Father's- Charles Howell bought 800 bricks for well.

Wednesday 25 Cloudy - Slight shower this morning- I wrote to Mrs. H. Cook- Removed a large box of honey- the other is also filled- Rain is needed-

Thursday 26 Fine rain during the night and showers this morning- warm and oppressive- Uncle Benjamin Underhill & wife arrived at 121/2 M. - Dr. Seabury & family return to New York - Mrs. Seabury not well.- I constructed some boxes for honey to remove the other large box- Wrote to Farmingdale for 1000 well bricks.

Friday 27- Cloudy - air close & oppressive- I have not been very industrious- On the contrary have felt disposed to fall into man's original sin laziness-

Saturday 28 - Cloudy - showers in the morning- Mary, I & the children took a short ride and came home in the rain - Mrs. Robert Weeks & the Underhills left with the afternoon train, I went to the station early this morning and ordered a basket of peaches- I went after them at the evening train. This was behind time & came up in the midst of a hard rain- Wm. Russell arrived intending to go on to Longwood , but found no conveyancy & invited him to spend the night with me, which he accepted. I had an opportunity to send my peaches as far as Mill's store & from here I carried them home through the mud and rain.-Prepared six boxes for honey

Sunday 29 It continued to rain during the night and has continued to day, with scarcely an abatement. Mr. Russell remained with me..

Monday 30 - Cloudy- Occasional showers- Clear at evening - Russell left this morning with the 71/2 train. - I partially filled a mattress with cloth shearings - painted a ladder & c with other small matters, not worth enumerating- Mary as usual did our washing- a faithful wife in every sense- I removed some of the feeders and put boxes in the place of them.

Tuesday 31 - a fine & clear day- I went to Bellport this afternoon a brought home a load of cedar rails- number of eggs this month is 85.

September

Wednesday 1st - Clear, sun warm - i went to Bellport & procured a load (50) of cedar rails- Put 25 bricks into the head of bedstead for weight- Walked to the station to return a peach basket to the baggage master.

Thursday 2nd Clear, hot in the sun- Archie & I took a walk north of Mr. Mill's in search of bees. found none

Friday 3. Clear, breeze from S.W. Cloudy towards evening- thunder & lightning at a distance - Mary & I with children went to Patchogue _ Mary wished to have a tooth extracted- I had a conical tin vessel constructed in which to mould the bees-wax- sold to Sutton the dentist a recipe for feeding bees for $5.00- We reached home about 2p.m.

Saturday 4 Clear & pleasant.- This morning attended the funeral of Townsend Van-Nostrand- A boy accidentally drowned on Thursday while bathing in a pond at Middle Island.- melted and moulded some wax and made a candle by dipping as an experiment.

Sunday 5 -Clear and very pleasant- Occupied in reading- Mary wrote to her brother John K. Croswell

Monday 6 Clear & pleasant - nights cool- Mary was occupied with our washing- I was engaged in melting wax- About 6p.m.I waded down the river about a mile but saw no ducks- gathered about 30 water-melons from Father's corn field.

Tuesday 7 - Clear & pleasant - I sent an advertisement to Platt of the Long Islander and to David Brush, of the Democrat - I hear since I sent my letter that the latter died on Sunday- Went on horse as far as Overton's store.

Wednesday 8 - Cloudless sky - I constructed two frames for the moschetoe nets for west room windows up stairs- Early this morning I waded some distance down the river- Mrs. Titus, her sister, and nieces- and her son Joseph Henry & wife called here about 6 p.m.

Thursday 9 - The beautiful weather still continues- Father and Mother went to Patchogue- I was occupied in various ways. - Procured some pears from Mr. Mill's trees- Cleaned stove & pipe and arranged them in the west room- L'Hommedieu & brother were here at work upon my blinds which worked badly

Friday 10 - Cloudy- damp. warm - indications of rain- I prepared a contivance for converting the sofa table into a child's bedstead- Repaired castor on Father's table.- Sealed a number of boxes of honey- weighed them- Paid Charles Howell for 800 well bricks- Mary has been very busy preparing for the reception of her brother Kellogg expected tomorrow.

Saturday 11 Warm, afternoon cloudy _ Removed the 21st box of honey- Fastened the two large boxes of honey together & put on a handle for the convenience of removing them. Went to the station at 12. M- Kellogg & his wife arrived- They were married at Gilboa last Thursday morning- Commenced raining this evening-

Sunday 12 Steady rain during the night- Wind south west- showers this morning- afternoon cleared up

Monday 13 - Quite cool, clear, wind from N.W.- Father & Mother Kellogg & wife & I went to mastic _ I procured Mr. Nicholl's boat and rowed Kellogg and wife across the bay- and we went to the ocean- I had considerable difficulty in rowing back on account of the wind.- We reached home about 3 p.m.

Tuesday 14. - Clear, pleasant- We all (except Susy, who remained with mother) went to Bellport and called upon Mrs. Titus.- Uncle Sidney, Aunt Ellen, Robert & Amelia & Father & Mother took tea with us- The bees remain pretty closely in their hives.

Wednesday 15. Cloudy- Showers this afternoon-Occupied in reading, writing & c. M. Petty began to plow a portion of the lot here. Preparatory to sowing wheat.-

Thursday 16. Clear & pleasant - Kellogg & I went out with our guns, but saw nothing worth shooting- L'Hommedieu and brother were here this afternoon & painted my blinds.- Plowing finished and wheat sown- Recd a letter- from Edward K. Bryan in reply to mine, stating that the County reply to mine. Stating that the County Fair had been postponed to Oct.6th

Friday 17, Clear and pleasant - I went to the river early this morning & shot two grey squirrels. we all went to Long Wood to dinner & spent the afternoon- visited Uncle Sidney's orchard, the peach trees are loaded with fruit.

Saturday 18 - Clear and pleasant- Kellogg & I waded the river to the head of Carman's Pond. - I succeeded in killing three Teal afternoon, picked & dressed them. Robert M. Russell came in the late train and informed us of the death of Aunt Amelia (Mrs. Seabury) - she died about 2 p.m.

Sunday 19 - Clear & Pleasant - We remained quietly at home- Father & Mother went to Long Wood

Monday 20 Clear & pleasant - Kellogg & I went very early and waded the river, but without success. Father & Mother went to New York with the early train.- I picked a quantity of small melons (water) & pressed out the juice and boiled it. it seemed to contain too much acid to become a sweet syrup- I drove to the station on the arrival of the evening train- received to day a volume from Mrs. Phillip Jones- written by her Father.

Tuesday 21 - Pleasant wind S.W. - afternoon cloudy- we all went to the sound at Miller's Place. drove along shore quite a distance- Reached home between 2&3 p.m.- we carried a gun with us & shot one wild pigeon.

Wednesday 22- Slight shower during the night- Clear and pleasant today- Kellogg & I went early down the stream. I shot two teal- After breakfast we took a ride to Fireplace & returned on the west side of the river.

Thursday 23 - Pleasant - cooler - I took Kellogg & his wife and Archie to Wampmissic- Towards evening we went down the river but without any success- Henry Floyd Jones arrived & went to Long Wood

Friday 24- Cloudy - Kellogg & I took another view of the stream, but the ducks were scarce. Went to the station at 12 M. after Father who returned - Caleb King & John Brown called & I showed them the Apiary.

Saturday 25- Cloudy _ I wrote a number of forms for granting rights to Gilmore's hive- Towards night Kellogg & I went out with our guns, but in different directions- I shot one partridge & one pigeon- James and John Smith came home and Brace arrived with the evening train

Sunday 26- Considerable rain fell during the night and showery this morning- Afternoon. Kellogg, Brace & I ascended a hill in the vicinity from which we could see the ocean-

Monday 27- Clear, cool & pleasant _ I conveyed Kellogg & his wife and Brace to the station to take the early train for New York - About 11 O'c I started for Wampmissic in order to be there upon the arrival of the afternoon train to meet Mr.. Weeks (auctioneer) who came down with Mr. Blake to take a look at Wampmissic- Father accompanied them from Yaphank station-We spent the afternoon in riding about Wampmissic- Weeks and Blake are spending the night at Father's- Removed some boxes partly filled with honey

Tuesday 28 _ Cloudy - high wind from the south west- Weeks and Blake left with the early train- Occupied for a while in writing- Towards evening went down to the river saw two ducks and wounded one, but it escaped into the bushes.

Wednesday 29 Cloudy - Wind N.W. afternoon clear- I put glass in the backs of two sections- Removed 4 boxes partly filled with honey. Mrs. Henry Nicoll & Miss Thorn called here this afternoon-

Thursday 30- Calm & pleasant _ I prepared a board & painted it to be used as a black board for Archie- Sent letters to Editors of Watchman and Connector- walked with my gun, but shot nothing.

October

Friday 1 - Cool night - Clear & pleasant to day- I was occupied in drawing some designs for Apiaries arrangement of hives & c- Number of eggs in September was 65

Saturday 2 - Clear warm & bright sun- Father & Mother started for Cold Spring with their carriage & horses- I went to Wampmissic with the 12 O'c train to engage a wagon of Mr.. Taft to convey me to Huntington next next week- he has a small one here at the blacksmiths shop- Archie & I gathered some fall Pippins

Sunday 3 -Pleasant - we walked out with the children

Monday 4th Cloudy - afternoon showery Drew a front view of Apiary to contain 8 hives on a tier- Recd a letter from Father informing me that the County Fair had again been postponed- Afternoon I walked as far as Overton's store to inform him that I should not need his horse tomorrow.

Tuesday 5 - High wind from the north west - I went to Wampmissic with the 12 O'c train, having heard a rumor of a swarm of bees in a tree- but when I arrived there, no one had heard of it & so I returned with the next train- towards evening, I waded the river and shot two black ducks but one concealed himself in the bushes and I did not recover it.

Wednesday 6 - Morning Cloudy with slight shower: Afternoon clear-

Thursday 7 - Warm in the sun- I went to the river early this morning- saw quite a flock of ducks, but was unable to approach near enough to shoot any- I cleared away some of the bushes so that I can approach nearer at a future time: I came home with quite a headache- Hear of the death of Mrs. Bailey and her youngest child- The latter died last week and Mrs. Bailey yesterday afternoon.

Friday 8 Rain with thunder & lightning during the night- sun came out warm this afternoon. thunder squall with some rain- Archie has had a diarrhea for several days having eaten a quantity of grapes, seeds and all. I have been somewhat indolent- Towards evening waded the stream a mile or more without success.

Saturday 9 - Cloudy - Archie was improving yesterday, but John gave him some candy (cocoanut) and he was restless during the night and the loose discharges have returned to day. Susy begins to creep- Mrs. Bailey's funeral took place this afternoon

Sunday 10 Dark, Damp & showery - We remained within doors. Archie seems to be improving.

Monday 11 High Wind- Clear - Calm at evening- I went early to the river returned without success- reading & c - Archie better- I find my article upon bees in the Oct. no of the "Plow"

Tuesday 12 - Calm, Clear, cool in the morning - afternoon wind S.W. cloudy - warm. I went early to the river and might have had a shot of some ducks, if I had proceeded with more caution. Walked with Archie as far as the Rail Road- Finished reading Kellogg on Labor & Capitol

Wednesday 13 - Cloudy- Slight shower - went early to the river- shot at some ducks but did not obtain any- went late again in the afternoon & shot two wood ducks- I constructed a wooden decoy duck- Father and Mother returned home from Fort neck.

Thursday 14- Cloudy - rain at evening - I went early to the river, but saw no ducks- shot two fine trout- I made another decoy- Father & Mother dined with us.

Friday 15 Some rain during the night & this morning. Cloud & Sun, with high wind from the N.W.- rather cool- I went early to the river & watched an hour or two, but no ducks came- I cleaned the stove and removed it from the cellar- I went again to the river and waded it for some distance but no ducks to be seen- The wind continues & it becomes colder- gathered my grapes.

Saturday 16 - Wind N.W. & blew like fury all day- Cold - I went again early to the river, but it was rather cool to remain long, if I had shot any ducks I should mention it- I rode as far as Osborn Overton's to inform him that I should want his horse next week. I finished making two small maps for Aunt Eliza Underhill-

Sunday 17 - White frost this morning- The green leaves of many plants have withered- milder chilly air from the south- afternoon a slight shower. Mary & i walked as far as Franklin Howell's-

Monday 18 - Morning, mild & pleasant - afternoon cloudy, high wind from S.W. _ i went to the stream this morning- shot a woodcock & two trout - went again at evening- I swept the cellar - received a barrel of apples sent by Grandfather from cold spring

Tuesday 19 Windy, cloudy, colder at evening- Thunder early this morning and slight rain- Archie is two years old to day- He walked to the mill with me & weighed him - 261/2 lbs. I went with father to the station - he went to New York with the afternoon train. Took Mary & children as far as Mrs.. Petty's while I went after Overton's horse.

Wednesday 20 - Quite cold - no rain- I started quite early this morning for Huntington in order to be present at the fair tomorrow- Stopped at the Branch (Hallock's) & fed horse- Called at J. Lawrence Smith's & dined with him- continued on & passed through Huntington to Lloyd's Neck & reached A.B. Crossman's about sunset- Spent the night- Talked about bees & c- Mrs. C thinks she will adopt my hive-

Thursday 21 Cloudy in the morning, but the day subsequently proved pleasant- I left Crossman's soon after 8 A.M. - Drove to Huntington; exhibited my honey and wax at the fair, which were much admired- sold the six smaller boxes which I exhibited- was appointed one of the judges of the "Dairy"- Under this head were some fine samples of butter.; Went to Uncle David Jones's at Cold Spring & spent the night- There were some fine vegetables exhibited the fair to day & some fine apples & grapes but it was too late in the season for some fruits.

Friday 22- Clear & pleasant - left Uncle David's this morning- drove to Dix Hill's, called to see Miss Jackson (maiden lady) whom I saw at the fair yesterday- I removed two boxes of honey from her two hives- thence continued on as far as David Carll's where I took dinner- examined their bees & c thence continued & called a few minutes at Caleb Smith's at Comac - went as far as Judge J.B. Smith's (Hauppauge) and spent the night.

Saturday 23- Cloudy in the morning- High Wind, chilly.- I left Judge Smith's - called at Milne's and talked with him awhile- Thence passed through Smith Town and arrived at Stoney Brook, before 12 M.- Went to Chas Seabury's and dined with him- he is engaged in the construction of pianos- Called to see Wm. S. and Sheppard Mount- Left here about 3 P.M. and called at Benj Bailey's on my way home- Bailey's stock of bees very much reduced- I reached home soon after 7 O'c P.M.- Mary and the children well- Mrs. J sold seven masks during my absence. Mrs. Richard Smith & daughter Charlotte were at Father's also Uncle Sidney. Aunt Ellen, Wm. Robert and Amelia.

Sunday 24 - Quite pleasant - air chilly- Walked out a little while with the children. Robt. H. Hawkins & wife called here.

Monday 25 - Warm & pleasant. Indian summer _ I took Overton's horse home - Wrote a letter to Judge Smith & sent him a copy of Dr. Thew on "Children & Their diseases" - wrote also to John T. Hamilton. Oyster Bay- Between 12 & 1 O'c went to Wampmissic & with Mr.. Higgins measured some of father's wood & some of mine- Amelia & Rebecca Strong (Oak Wood) dined at Father's- Edward A. Strong & wife also arrived there with the 12 O'c train- I gave Misses Strong a box of honey.

Tuesday 26 - Cooler than yesterday - We received intelligence yesterday of the death of Daniel Webster- Read a biographical sketch of him in the New York Daily Times - this afternoon i whitewashed the ceiling of the west room.-

Wednesday 27 - Frost, chilly- Afternoon cloudy - I whitewashed the ceiling of the east room- prepared some mortar and plastered the space between the east room board & the front of the apiary- to exclude mice & c. went to the stream early this morning.

Thursday 28- Cloudy, warm - Reading & c- made a small map for mother- Mr. & Mrs. Strong returned to New York.

Friday 29 Cloudy- Robert Smith, Amelia, Miss Charlotte & Miss Mary Smith called here- I cut out two brackets for the north end of the wood shed.

Sat. 30 Cloudy - indications of rain- slight sprinkle at evening- Father & I went to Wampmissic & as far as the Country Road- reached home about 2 P.M.

Sunday 31 - Rain during the night - today, showery, damp, misty, murky -mild- occupied in reading - commenced reading the Bible in regular order.

November

Monday 1 Cloudy damp murky - reading & c- did not accomplish much - No of eggs in October is 47.

Tuesday 2 Thunder & lightning with rain before dawn this morning- damp - shower again this evening- afternoon attended the election at Coram.

Wednesday 3 - Clear - high wind from north west- prepared some paint for roof of Apiary- cleansed some paint brushes- Evening went to the village lecture room- Samuel Edward's spoke upon temperance- Mr. Hunting called here.

Thursday 4 - Cloudy - showery - Went to New York with the 91/2 train - Put up at French's Hotel- Called to see Uncle Daniel who keeps livery stable in Bowery near 4 St.

Friday 5 -Drizzly, damp - walked about considerably, and made some purchases- This evening at the hotel saw Edwin Wright a former classmate - Went with Sidney Smith to Mr. Kellogg's house in south Brooklyn & spent the evening- had tooth extracted this morning.

Saturday 6 - Cloudy-cold &chilly - return home with the two O'clock train.-

Sunday 7- Steady rain during the night, cloudy- clear at evening - at 3 p.m. went to church to hear Mr.. Hunting.

Monday 8th Clear, colder, windy - I designed & commenced constructing an ornamental figure for Apiary- At evening walked down to the station - Recd a letter from Hamilton of Oyster Bay.

Tuesday 9 Milder- cloudy- I finished ornament for Apiary & put it on & painted it one coat- Father came from Cold Spring to day he intends spending the winter at Long Wood- I walked to the station but my picture frame & oil which I expected did not arrive.

Wednesday 10 - Considerable rain fell during the night- sun at intervals today- I puttied some nail heads upon roof of Apiary preparatory to painting- prepared some paint - went again to the station, but without success.

Thursday 11 Heavy white frost- I painted the south half of roof of Apiary- I drove to the station & procured my can of oil.

Friday 12 Rainy - cleared late in the afternoon- I have been papering some doors instead of painting them-

Saturday 13 Cold wind from N.W. - I painted the north roof of Apiary - constructed a rabbit trap- Father went to Fort Neck to examine the church there- he returned home again this evening- Mrs. Taft called here- John carted some wood for me-

Sunday 14 - Cloudy- high wind from N.W. snow squalls but no snow accumulated - reading - wrote a letter to A. Croswell-

Monday 15 - Quite cold & high wind from N.W. - found a rabbit in my trap which furnished Archie some amusement- I completed another trap- Put nearly 30 cabbages into the cellar- Gave the balance in garden to H. Taft- replaced a broken window light in South Wing- waded the river 11/2 mile- shot a partridge.

Tuesday 16 -Wind continued through the night - milder this morning- I caught another rabbit Dr. Miller & Dr. Preston called to see my Apiary- They are attending J.P. Mill's wife. Went to the station with Father for a book case formerly belonging to his Father& came from Oyster Bay- I also recd a barrel of apples from Uncle Edward- Aunt Ellen & Susy Smith took supper with us- A window fell upon Archie's hand this afternoon and bruised it considerably. applied cold water to it.

Wednesday 17 - Morning pleasant - afternoon cloudy - Father's hogs were killed - I used the rifle- Replained Father's book case- Mrs. J.P. Mills delivered of a female child last night- She herself remains very ill- Archie's hand seems to be well. I finished another rabbit trap & Archie went with me to set the three.

Thursday 18 Rainy _ I looked over the accounts of cost of house & recorded in my account book - reading-

Friday 19 Cloudy, damp chilly- I finished what I began yesterday-

Saturday 20 Cloudy - cold & windy- I constructed a shelf to be suspended in the cellar.

Sunday 21 - Clear- cool - windy- We hear of the death of Mr. Robert's (Mastic) youngest daughter from Scarlet Fever after a few days' illness- Mary & I called to see J.P. mill's wife- A rabbit in one of the traps this morning-

Monday 22 - A cold frosty morning - Mercury at 20- I went to H. Randall's to meet the collector & pay our yearly tax- Edmund Hawkins rode with me. Samuel H. Townsend called here-

Tuesday 23- Commenced raining during the night & continued to day - I constructed a small picture frame & covered it with paper- The children both caught slight colds today.

Wednesday 24 - Clear, cold & windy - I sent an assessment to the insurance Co. at Saratoga Springs- Put a new sash in window of east room up stairs in place of one which had two lights broken- Archie is quite restless this evening- I cut some wood at woodpile.

Thursday 24 Quite mild & pleasant - Thanksgiving Day- I went to the station & sent by Smith's express for a picture frame which I ordered some weeks ago in Brooklyn- I found some of my stocks of bees taking injury from the condensation of moisture within the hive. I removed two of the plugs at the back of each hive & gave them a circulation of air- I finished reading Reuben Medlicott-

Friday 26 Continued rain - wind S.W. - I was occupied chiefly in arranging the family record- I walked to the station at evening and receiving my picture frame which arrived with the car.

Saturday 27 - Rain during the night - unabated- ceased today- I have been reading & exercising in cutting wood.

Sunday 28 Clear, Cool, windy - reading- Towards evening I walked as far as the swamp in the hills-

Monday 29 - Frosty morning - pleasant- cloudy - We were up very early & Mary finished washing our clothes- I cut some wood. Took Archie a ride in his cart.

Tuesday 30 Frosty - day pleasant - I made some changes to the Apiary, in the boards, which pass along the top of the upper tier of hives-Took susy a ride to the blacksmith shop-Recd a printed marriage certificate of my marriage- from Mrs.. Bogardus-

December

Wednesday.1 Frosty- day mild for the season- I finished what I began yesterday- Wrote to Nathan Burd to inquire the price of a cooking stove for M. Petty- no of eggs in November was 3- the hens have ceased laying-

Thursday. 2 Warm & pleasant- unusually mild for the season- the morning was frosty- John, Father's Irishman left today, his time having expired- the care of the horses and cows devolves upon me, as Father & Mother are going to New York so soon that another man will not be engaged- I opened the front of the Apiary and the bees came out in great numbers. Took Mary & the children a ride- Mrs. Homan (formerly Mary Bishop) whose health is not very good, we invited to accompany us- Mr. & Mrs. Ireland & Miss Catherine Floyd took tea at Father's.

Friday 3 Mild, Cloudy - indications of rain at evening. frosty last night- Father purchased a new bucket. Father brought a pup here for us to take care of this winter, it is one which Thomas Smith sent him-

Sat. 4th Rainy, warm- I wrote two copies of contract for building a church between Father & Edmund petty- The latter came up during the afternoon & the contract was executed- I commenced small set of steps for interior of Apiary-

Sunday 5th Cloudy & damp- occasional showers all day- Reading, reflecting.

Monday 6th Clear, warm & pleasant- Sarah (Irishwoman) left with the cars- Father & Mother are getting ready to shut up their house- They will spend the night with us- I now have charge of the milking.

Tuesday 7th Still mild - afternoon cloudy- Father & Mother went off with the 111/2 O'c train- this afternoon took Mary & the children a ride in the wagon.

Wednesday 8th Violent rain storm during the night- wind from the south- Clear this morning- mild & pleasant- After milking I harnessed the horses and went with compass to run some lines a short distance east of Bellport station for Sylvester Homan- reached home about 4 p.m. took Mary and the children a short ride- Recd a letter from H. Blank, respecting bees.

Thursday 9 Frosty- then mild & summer like, then cloudy- Wrote to H. Clark (Orient)- Finished the steps which I commenced the other day.

Friday 10 Cloudy, mild- Wrote an advertisement for a W. Dayton- Archie & I rode to the station

Saturday 11 - Rain commenced during the night and the day has been dark & rainy- reading

Sunday 12 - Clear- windy- colder- We took the children out for a short time this afternoon-

Monday 13 - Frosty- succeeded by cold rain storms- I rode up the street this afternoon & procured a few subscribes for the Cultivator-

Tuesday 14 -Frosty the sun shone, but the air was chilly. About 11 O'c. I started for Bellport ordered a pair of boots, procured a couple of boards- called at Irelands- could not induce him to purchase a right as they were not less but he loves dollars more- Reached home about 4 P.M.

Wednesday 15- Frosty- day pleasant - I put a quantity of green wood into the north wing-This afternoon commenced painting Father's farm wagon.

Thursday 16- white frost this morning- Cloudy- indications of rain. - finished painting wagon- put some shears of stalks into stable. There is such a constant succession of rains that it is difficult to find a time when the stacks are dry. Daniel Swezey came down to see my apiary but the price of patent seemed to frighten him very much.

Friday 17 - Violent rain during the night, wind S.E. day cloudy, slight showers. The east wall of ice house cased in from the effect of the rain - I wrote a few lines to Father & carried the letter to the station.

Sat. 18 Wind changed during the night to N.W.- I expected a man to remove the stones, dirt & c from ice house, but he did not come- I cleared out the horse stables.- came home & read a while. Harnessed & went to the station - after dinner I went after Topping the mason, but he was engaged & could not come on Monday, but I have engaged two men to assist me on Monday.

Sun. 19 - Wind has ceased- air quite cold- Mary, I & the children called this afternoon at Mrs. Hawkin's.

Mon. 20 - Wind from the south - air mild- Mitchell came this morning to clear the rubbish in the ice house - worked half a day & Wm. Albin came also - but they were deterred from proceeding for fear the walls would fall in- I went to see the collector at the house of Horace Randall - to receive a portion of the tax which had been overpaid by reason of a mistake- Sent a letter to Dr. Nichols, inclosing $1.00 for a book.-

Tuesday 21 - Damp, cloudy, cold, misty-showers- Recd. a letter from James Weeks informing me that he intended coming to Yaphank on Sat. next - Wrote a letter to Father-

Wednesday 22- Clear & cold, about 10 O'c I went to Wampmissic on horseback- called to see Akerly- found him abed & not fully recovered from a drunken spree- his family all absent as it is said he turned them out on Monday night- I reached home about 1 p.m.

Thursday 23 - I went to Wampmissic to meet Father, who came from new York- we reached home at 3p.m.- father is staying with us-

Friday 24 - I assisted Father in taking down a bedstead at his house belonging to Wm. Russell- James Weeks came down today also Wm. Smith- father went to Long Wood to dinner- he has concluded to do nothing with the ice house this winter-

Sat. 25 Christmas- cloudy- mild- Father went to new York with the train at 111/2 )'c- We all went to dine at Long Wood- Scott arrived with the train & was there also- We returned home about 5 p.m.

Sun. 26 - somewhat cold- wind from N.W. - this afternoon we were up the street & Mary called to see franklin Howell's wife & carried her some articles of food.

Monday 27 - Morning pleasant- afternoon cloudy & hail mingled with rain- David & Elbert Jones called here with the Smith's- James Weeks went to Long Wood with them.

Tuesday 28 - foggy, storm- high wind from the south, south west- David & Elbert Jones came from Long Wood & took dinner with us. Mrs. Mills, wife of J.P. Mills died this afternoon-

Wed. 29 - colder - I went to Bellport- took dinner at Mr. Titus's- Mr. Titus decided to adopt my hives.

Thursday 30 - Cloudy, mild - I wrote a letter to reverend Bogardus & enclosed him $5.- The body of Mrs. Mills was conveyed to Baiting Hollow this afternoon-

Friday 31- Cloudy calm & warm- i rose between 5&6 A.M. & after providing for the cows & c I harnessed the horses & soon after seven I started for Baiting Hollow to convey Mr. & Mrs. Mills & Eliza, their daughter to the funeral of John's wife- we arrived there before 11.- Left there on our return about 21/2 p.m. - I feel quite fatigued.

Transcribed by,

Paul Infranco

The William Weeks Diaries

1860

January

Sunday 1- Cold Somewhat cloudy- like snow- Father says the mercury was 4 below zero at 8O'c this morning. I went to the church before 10 O'c this morning & made a fire- At 11:00 I read the service and a sermon for New Year- Only a few present- Father, Mother, Mary & Archie- Dr. Holden & his wife- Mr. Whitbeck- Miss Isabella Hawkins & Robert & Annie, the help at Father's. I gave notice that the church would be closed until further notice.

Monday 2nd Clear and cold- cold north westerly wind- no thawing. I constructed three boxes this morning into two of which I put some earth & set out cranberry plants. Mary & the children went to father's about 12:00 & between 1 &2p.m. I went to the P.O. & thence to Father's where we all dined- The children all have colds and coughs- I kept up fire this evening till 12:oo on account of the cold- mercury down to 6 at 10 p.m. & wind blowing

Tuesday 3rd This morning at 71/2 O'c mercury at 4 below zero- The air during the day was milder than yesterday- I assisted Mary at our washing- Mary was anxious to do it & we had no opportunity to send the clothes to Huldah- I dressed some (2) raccoon skins & muskrat- Archie has been quite sick with his cold.- earache this afternoon- I gave him a partial pack this afternoon & he is relieved this evening- this evening I went to the school house to attend the debating meeting.

Wednesday 4th - Milder- almost calm -commenced snowing between 11 & 12 & continued this afternoon & part of the evening- a light snow of a few inches- I went to the swamp this morning and made some drains to carry off water from the muck-Afternoon, I drove to the station & procured a package of books sent by Mrs. Paige to the children- I shelled some corn, this evening. Mr. White & his wife & daughter Henrietta and Phillip leek came and spent the evening- till after 11O'c - We treated them to ice cream & c - Father came in- wrote for the cultivator & L. I. Star - to be mailed tomorrow

Thursday 5th Clear & cold- no thawing wind north westerly- We did not rise very early- after breakfast I dressed one skin (muskrat) - prepared two others to soften.- went to the P.O. & carried my letters & inclosed subscriptions- I rode back from the store & P.O. with Briant Overton & we stopped at Father's- he wished to inquire about Wampmissic. He is a land agent at present- About 10 O'c I went down into the woods & near the road cut down a pine tree and cut off several 4ft. sticks, which I split- this afternoon I looked over the papers- late in the afternoon Dr. Holden came in and staid some time. - Archie had an earache again this evening- I let him go out for a few minutes- Hally seemed to be sick at her stomach occasionally - we gave her a warm bath this evening & also last evening- She is asleep now 10 O'c p.m.

Friday 6th - the past night was cold- mercury at 4 this morning, probably lower during the night- I looked over the papers - between 11& 12 went into the grove & cut down a tree & cut it into convenient sticks- Dr. Holden called & dined with us - towards evening Mr. Osborn called to make some inquiries about surveying which he is studying.-

Sat. 7th - Milder - cloudy - I dressed two muskrat skins - went into the grove & cut another tree & c- afternoon went to the P.O. - father & Mother went to Dr. miller's and when they returned I took Mary, Susy & Jamie a sleigh ride around by Swezey's- poor sleighing- the children are better of their colds- rain this evening & quite fast.

Sunday 8th - the snow has disappeared- patches of ice here & there - the frost remains in the ground- the sun bright & the day calm -, mild & spring like - bees out- We remained home- very bright moonlight.

Monday 9th - Morning frosty - clear & pleasant - thawing on the surface- I drove to Wampmissic & carried my compass- retraced portions of my west line, where I am now having the wood cut off- on my return home I drove to the P.O. and finally reached here at 3 p.m.- Mrs. Homan (wife of Sylvester Mother of Catherine died yesterday at Patchogue, where one day last week she was thrown from a wagon & badly injured.

Missing Tues. 10- Weds 18

Thursday 19 - The day proved mild - pleasant - the surface softened a little - I went to the pond with the children & skated awhile- old ice and not very smooth- Went to Father's & procured an apple tree plank & this afternoon prepared upon it a form in which to make some strips for sled runners- I went to see Hallock this evening-

Friday 20 - Rather cooler this morning - the day proved pleasant- surface thawing - I took my bucket chains & c to the blacksmith to have snaps put put in the chains & the latter shortened & worn links removed -The children went on the pond to skate - about 12 O'c I drove to Mr. Tuttle's - he was not at home - On my return home, Mrs. Swezey (John) was waiting to have a tooth extracted - removed two- Afternoon, I prepared a steam box & steamed one runner & bent it in the form leaving it to dry.

Sat. 21 - Mild- fresh south westerly wind - surface softened- About 9:00 went to the pond with the children and skated a short time - ice softening- On my return home put on my long rubber boots and went to the swamp - pulled some tufts of grass & prepared some surface drains - Afternoon - With Mary, Mother & the children drove as far as Mr. Tuttle's & made a all - I went to the swamp again and remained till dusk - This evening chess with Mr. Floyd

Sunday 22 - Mild - calm & spring like - This afternoon I walked to the Presby chapel & heard a sermon read - On my way home called at J. week's & engaged his wife to come& sew for us.

Monday 23 - The surface froze slightly during the night- another calm & pleasant day - I assisted Mary at the washing - then went to the swamp both morning and afternoon & with Robert's assistance, carted off turf and muck - This evening, called at the store to procure some articles.

Tuesday 24 - Morning frosty- Afternoon cloudy - I arranged my notes for the evening debate - About 11 O'c I went to the swamp & carted out some muck, also this afternoon, muck & roots- Louisa Weeks came here today to assist in sewing - Mrs. Hallock was here this afternoon & three of her children. This evening went to the school house to attend the debate- Which affords the greater enjoyment, anticipation, or realization? I discussed realization & the question was decided on that side.-

Wednesday - Some rain fell during the night - the day has proved pleasant - About 10 O'c I started for Mastic with Mother in the rockaway - We made a call at Mr. Floyd's & played a game of chess.-

Thursday 26 - Morning cool- day cloudy & prospect of snow- I went to Wampmissic with Father & trimmed a line from stone B to the Rail Road - we finished between 1 & 2 p.m. and returned home - the remainder of the day I felt quite fatigued - towards evening I went to the swamp & brought home axe, fork, & shovel.

Friday 27 -During the night there fell 2 or 3 inches of snow - Today mild & thawing - This evening frosty- I looked over the papers - copied one of my arguments introduced at the last debate- went to Father's - shelled some corn and copied some surveying notes for him - afternoon went to J. Hammond's shop & staid awhile - This evening attended the singing school.

Sat 28 -Frosty - cloudy- Afternoon flurry of snow - I carted some muck & put upon my garden - also this afternoon - I then spread what I have carted to day - This muck was drawn from the swamp last week- I prepared letters for the children (Susy & Jamie) to copy to Mrs. Paige.

Sunday 29 - clear & cool - sun bright - Father & Mother with Archie & Susie went to the Presby Chapel to attend the funeral of Sylvester Homan's little boy who died on Friday of the same disease with his two sisters - Homan has lost his wife & 3 children within a few weeks- This afternoon Ecford Owen called & I extracted a tooth for his little boy.-

Monday 30 - wind southerly - appearance of rain - afternoon the sun came out and the air was spring like - I drove to Wampmissic & inspected the wood, which I am having cut.- reached home between 1 & 2 p.m. - Went to the P.O. - on my return stopped a few minutes at father's - Dr. Oliver Rice, his sister, Miss Mumford were making a call there - Jacob Osborn spent the afternoon with us - I extracted a tooth for him.-

Tuesday 31st Surface froze during the night - to day - mild & thawing - but towards evening, a fresh breeze sprang up from the north east - and the air soon became cold- about 9:00 snow began to fall - I looked over the papers - the children finished their letters to Mrs. Paige and they were put in the mail - Afternoon peter Curran came & carted two loads of muck for Mr. White- I rode to the Post Office with John Carter- I split a bit of white oak for axe handles.- brought the other sled runner from the swamp, steamed and bent it- This evening. attended the debating society at the school house - reached home about 9 O'c

February

Wednesday 1st - The morning opened with cold north westerly wind and snow still falling - 5 or 6 inches fell and drifted - Afternoon clear & cold - I looked over some papers - formed three axe handles, but did not finish them as wood is green. - afternoon went to the P.O.

Thursday 2nd - At 7:oo A.M - mercury 7 below 0 - The day was cold - Afternoon cloudy - I assisted to day in cleaning & measuring 91 bushels of wheat at Father's - It occupied the best part part of the morning & afternoon.

Friday 3rd - Cloudy - Cold - with occasional flurries of sun- I read some - Prepared a pattern & cut some Muskrat skins for a cap - did not succeed very well & put them to soften - latter part of the afternoon walked to the pond with Archie - It is frozen quite hard.

Sat. 4th - Two or three inches slight snow during the night - Today, cloudy - some flakes of snow- I went to the pond with the children awhile this morning - after clearing off the snow the skating was good - after dinner took a short sleigh ride with Mary & the children - On my return extracted two teeth for a Mrs. Swezey from Middle Island - next to the pond again for an hour or so & then called on Mr. Floyd & played a game of chess.

Sunday 5th- Cloudy - wind southerly - thawing some - We remained at home during the day -

Monday 6th - I assisted Mary with the washing - prepared a fur cap - sewed the pieces together & succeeded- afternoon, went to the P.O.- procured a shoulder from the smokehouse at Gerard's - went to Father's and put a batten on the cellar window - quite a tedious operation as the wood was very hard. - This finished the day.

Tuesday 7th - The sun came out bright, mild & spring like - Afternoon I adjusted the cap for drying - went to the swamp & worked a short time in securing turf- at 111/2 went with Father to the station - he started for New York with the train - Afternoon looked over the paper- went to the P.O. & then to the swamp & continued the same work I commenced this morning.- Thomas Homan died yesterday & John Randall the day before- both aged men.

Wednesday 8th - white frost - day clear & pleasant - afternoon cloudy - Robert & I went to Gerard's & took out from the smoke house the larger portion of the hogs - some were left not being sufficiently smoked - This evening Mary & I went to Hammond's-

Thursday 9th - Morning frosty - another mild calm & spring like day - I commenced an article upon the cell of the honey bee - went to the swamp for a short time this morning, came home & went at 11:00 to attend the funeral of Thomas Homan, at the Presbyterian church- at 3 p.m. went again to the border of the swamp. This evening Mary, Archie & I visited Mr. Osborn & his daughter, Mrs. Terry.

Friday 10th A roaring North west wind- cold - this forenoon I went to the swamp & spaded up quite a large surface of muck to expose it to the action of the frost - worked till nearly one O'c - I went down again this afternoon & laid plank for wheeling out the muck on an intended drain- also carted out several loads of muck.

Sat. 11 - Calmer, not so cold as yesterday - Afternoon cloudy & slight sun- This evening I did not go out - Last night between 12 & 1 O'c I was seized with a cold - after applying some remedies, I felt better in the morning & rose & dressed but was again seized with great pain in my bowels - sent foe Dr. Holden - who gave me rhubarb , a tablespoon full to be repeated every three or four hours - I suffered all day - no relief- took injections & c - hot cloth applied to the bowels-

Sunday 12th - The ground was white with snow, which partially disappeared during the day - I did not rest any last night - was up much during the night - pain still continues- continued rhubarb and injections - did not eat anything-

Monday 13th - Milder - the snow has disappeared - I slept but little last night - very restless - pain & c - The Dr. continues his visits - I took some castor oil with a tea spoon full of turpentine - I kept the most of it down, but in about a hour after taking, vomited much of it up- have had occasional turns of vomiting every day - I had to some better discharges from my bowels to day - have eaten a little this afternoon - An application of turpentine externally which burnt me.

Tuesday 14th - A slight rain during the night - morning cloudy, afternoon brighter- I had occasional naps last night - but aching bowels prevented much sleep - felt relieved towards morning- but bowels continue very sore - This has been my most comfortable day- have sat up - lain down looked over the paper & eaten something - taken no medicine.-

Wednesday 15th Morning cloudy - afternoon snow storm set in- I passed rather a restless night - quite severe pain for half an hour. - Today feel sore and constipated - passed the days as well as I could - ate a small piece of chicken breast and some roasted onions- Mary went to the store and procured me some figs of which I ate towards evening.- Dr. Holden called & spent the evening and about 7 O'c I had relief from from my bowels- have taken no medicine (drugs) to day.

Thursday 16 - When the morning came - the snow was still falling and continued this forenoon - Afternoon cleared off . snow several inches deep - about as much as at any time this winter - I slept a little the early part of the night but my bowels were painfully empty and I did not sleep for many hours.- I ate some gruel and eggs for breakfast which refreshed me & I have passed quite a comfortable day - but am weak & some in the bowels - read the papers & made some plammets for the children -

Friday 17 - the weather has become colder during the night & the wind blew freshly from the north west - snow drifted - Today. clear and cold and windy. - I slept a little during the night - some pain & c - passed a tolerable day- looked over the papers - a cot was arranged for me in the west room- as I cannot lie all night & wish to get up & sit by the fire.-

Sat. 18 morning cloudy - soon commenced snow storm & continued till sometime in the afternoon when it commenced raining rapidly- I passed quite a comfortable night & felt better this morning, but after breakfast of rice & steamed bread with butter, I did not feel as well - I commenced arranging my article upon the hexagonal cell.- headache this evening

Sunday 19 - Weather changed in the night - some snow fell- to day wind north westerly - cold - I was obliged to sit up twice during the night- have passed quite a comfortable day- think I am gradually recovering.

Monday 20 - Clear- not very cold - sleighing good- I passed a tolerable night - sat up but once - some pain after lying awhile - Over fatigued & strained my bowels by the work I did on Friday before I was taken & this has been the chief cause of my difficulty - the colic was complicated with it - I have not suffered much today - finished first article on hexagonal cell. - read & c.- rode to the P.O. with father in the sleigh - This with walking out to the wood shed this morning is all that I have been out doors for more than a week.-

Tues. 21 The sun came out bright & warm - Thawing- Father took us all a short sleigh ride - I remained in the sleigh while he was having some of the horses shoes set. - The sun poured down very hot, and when I returned home, I had a sick headache- afternoon, was sick about my stomach - I then took a partial wet sheet pack and remained in it two hours - evening I felt better - To day I am 39 years old.

Wednesday 22 - morning cloudy - slight rain - Afternoon high southerly wind and rain - snow disappearing - I did not sit up last night, although I was not entirely free from pain- I went to Father's & sat awhile this morning & then walked to the P.O. - looked over the paper & this afternoon, made an iron toasting fork for Mary. I have passed a comfortable day, except a slight headache.

Thursday 23 - The ground is now free from snow - mild - calm - cloudy - with occasional glimpses of the sun - I put two new wheels to a little wagon for Hally to draw - afternoon completed and fitted an axe handle & c - feel pretty well.-

Friday 24 - calm & mild - the sun came out pleasantly this morning. afternoon cloudy - I scraped off the thawed surface of some muck heaps on the garden - could not spread all because they were still frozen - procured some bees & compared the antennae very carefully with the size of the cells. - swept and cleaned some dirt from the cellar and arranged some pots of plants near the cellar window. Afternoon - walked to the P.O. - went to father's & shelled some corn - spent a little time in trimming a natural scythe - Mary took tea at Mrs. Hawkins

Sat. 25 - A light snowfall during the night which slowly disappeared to day - clear but cool - I made a trap for playing ball for Archie - completed another axe helve and partly finished a third this afternoon. - towards evening I went to the swamp and carted out a few loads of muck on the line of my drain - This evening walked to White's and staid a few minutes.-

Sunday 26 - Morning frost - clear & cool today- we remained at home - reading -

Monday 27 - Morning frosty - fresh southerly breeze - clear & pleasant - I wrote to H.G. De Forest acknowledging receipt of a pair of skates sent me by him - Mr. Osborn called to get some instructions in the use of Gunter's scale - at 11 O'c I went to the swamp & carted out some muck from the drain - Went down again the latter part of the afternoon.-

Tuesday 28 Another mild & pleasant day - cloudy towards evening - I continued work upon the drain - Wm. Osborn called to make further inquiries - I went to work again the latter part of the afternoon - evening attended the debate.

Wednesday 29 - Cloudy & damp -cooler & mild - I continued work upon the drain & finally before night cut it entirely across - & cut off the water.- After dinner went to the shoe shop, smith shop & P.O.

March

Thursday 1st - Rainy - wind southerly - mild- I wrote part of my article upon the hexagonal cell - looked over the newspapers - Afternoon went to the P.O. & c - nearly finished another axe handle - commenced a small sled for Jamie

Friday 2nd Mild & pleasant fresh north westerly breeze - clear - I wrote a letter to Chas Floyd - went to the swamp & worked at a drain near the upland. also a short time this afternoon - White & his wife came here about 4 O'c & spent the evening , also D.K. Gildersleeve & wife - by invitation - Father & mother also came in & all took supper with us.-

Saturday 3rd - Slight frost this morning - morning pleasant - afternoon cloudy- and rain this evening - I finished the upland drain this forenoon & the water flowed freely - Afternoon H. Overton came for me in his wagon & conveyed my surveying instruments to his house where I regulated his boundary lines - I went to the swamp again and laid some plank & c - Mr. & Mrs. J. Hammond here this evening.

Sunday 4th Clear high north westerly wind - we remained at home - Between 1 & 2 p.m. I went to work upon the tooth which has annoyed me so long the roots alive remaining, and after a tedious and painful operation I proceeded in extracting it in two pieces.

Monday 5th -Clear frost this morning - Today high southerly wind - I assisted Mary at our washing - Then went to the swamp & removed the turf from a strip - Afternoon went down again & carted out muck - also gathered some cranberry plants set out last spring & which the frost had thrown quite out of the ground- Towards evening went to Father's and shelled some corn for the chickens - my jaw quite sore.