John William Sterling Journal: January-December 1857

Jan 1, 1857 Today is a beautiful day only it is a little cold. I have just returned from carrying some things to Mr. Sedgwick, which are as follows: 1 dish of citron, 1 dish of grapes, 1 dish of jelly, a very large vegetable dish full of popcorn which I popped, for I can pop very good indeed. They or rather we scholars have made little things to be put in a bag. This bag is called “The Grab Bag” from which everyone grabs for .06. There were 110 things in the bag. Then all the things which cost more than .06 were put at auction. Mr. Russell was the auctioneer. It was a very good one too. Some of the things which cost perhaps .12 1/2 went up and were sold for $2 or $3. By this way we raised $38. Think not this was for a idle or vain purpose. for it was not. We had this to aid the poor children in New York. We gave the $38 to the Five Points House of Missions in Mr. Peases school. The boys each contributed 12 1/2 to get an entertainment with. Miss Alida Booth made the ice cream. The things I bought were for the table. Then we had waitors. You could tell them by the blue ribbons which they had tied on their arm, left. The waitors were as follows: Cyrus G Roberts. Edward Burs, Charles C Booth and Henry M Booth. Miss Dotten sold the tickets. She is Mr. Sedgwick’s assistant teacher at school.

I took two grabs. I kept 1 myself and gave the other to Uncle William. I grabed for myself a jumping jack for him a sheep. I bought a bride’s book at auction for .38 I sold it again for .50 We got home about 10 oclock. Uncle William did not go. He gets up every morning at 6 oclock in the morning and takes a walk before breakfast time.

Jan 3, 1857 It is snowing again. Uncle William wanted Aunt Sarah to go out with him to make calls, but she snow was so deep he took me. We first went to Cousin Nancy’s, then to Miss O. Walker, we had a very good visit indeed, but we did not see Miss Walker, for she was in New York.

Sister Sarah is coming home soon. She is staying at Uncle Holden’s.

Jan 10, 1857 More snow. I wish it would snow hard and be done. Uncle William went home on the 5th, Monday. He says he has had a very pleasant visit. I hope he has.

Jan 14, 1857 Aunt Sarah went home today with her husband. Uncle Beach came on the 6th and went to New Haven on the 7th. Oh! was there a more unpleasant day than the 7th. Oh! was there ever so much wind. They reached New Haven in safety and tried to get up to Cheshire, Uncle Beach’s former place. But they could not for the railroad because it is in the old canal was filled up with snow. They could not get a place to throw the snow.

Jan 19, 1857 Oh! if here is not another storm. It has come again in 10fold fury. Yesterday (Sunday) was the coldest day we have had this winter so far. It was 20 below all day. It snows and blows and blows and snows without any end or length. Oh! if there ever was such a storm. There is no school today.

Jan 20, 1857 I went to school today at 10 oclock. I did not expect to find one, there were not many there. Mr. Seymour Curtis has been making a path around town. The snow has drifted very badly indeed. There has been no cars from Saturday the seventeenth from New York, Bridgeport or New Haven yet or is likely to be. No one has been to Bridgeport in a sleigh as yet.

Jan 21, 1857 Aunt Elizabeth returned today from New York. She has had a very pleasant visit indeed. She brought some Christmas presents, namely: A book entitled “Memoirs of Washington” by Mrs. C.M. Kirkland for myself; for Kitty, a collar, for Mother, a pair of underdrawers; for Delia, a writing desk.

Jan 31, 1857 Aunt Kate and Dannie Holden came from New York last night. The first we hours of it was early in the morning about 1 oclock, in walked Dannie. We were very glad to see him indeed. Today is very unpleasant indeed. It rains or rather hails, stones! Cordelia, Dannie and I went up in the garret.

Feb 1, 1857 It has been very cold. It has cleared up. Very good sermon.

Feb 7, 1857 Almost or rather all the streets are impassable on account of the mud.

Feb 8, 1857 No Sunday night lecture, walking very bad.

Feb 13, 1857 Raining all day long. Raining very hard indeed.

Feb 14, 1857 Today is Valentine Day. Cordelia received a Valentine and I do not know but I shall before night. I shall not give up hoping. During the freshet this week the ice broke up and came upon the railway bridge and most carried it down. It reached Mr. Lucius [name illegible] house, filled his cellar with water and drowned his horse in the stable. A great loss it will be to him, for he has a very fine one.

Today being Saturday, Papa took us children to the mill to see the river. The water has fallen but it is a grand sight. The ice is wedged up one cake on top of another. Here are hills of ice 15 feet above the base of the river, here are valleys and here are level places. It took 3 bridges down. The [illegible] bridge and the largest and all three of them are to be seen upon the ice. One man’s house up to the mill escaped very narrowly without the loss of his house as I will tell you.

We have taken Mr [name illegible] a pie or some sweetmeats every single Saturday evening.

I’ve just got a Valentine and Cordelia has got another. They are from Bridgeport. Doctor Glewitz was in here tonight and played chess with Kit. He beat her.

Feb 21, 1857 The great subject of conversation is building a new church that will cost $12 or $13,000.

Feb 26, 1857 Aunt Cornelia came over from Bridgeport and spent a day with us. We all love her very much indeed.

Feb 28, 1857 Today is a very busy day indeed. I, Cordelia and Kate are all in the kitchen working very hard indeed. Cordelia and I at picking the stems off of raisins while Kate is cutting crullers. She makes pretty good ones, but Mother is breaking her back in both giving orders and performing the duties, which are needful in monitoring the household. An hour later we all may be seen in the dining room. Papa is reading the paper, Mother sewing very hard. Kate lounging on the lounge settee, writing her journal, while Cordelia reads and writes alternately, first at her Hiawatha and next at her journal. I am writing this with blue ink. For the past week I have been making a ship. I am going to make the masts today.

Feb 11, 1857 I meant to tell of the installation before, but I forgot to do it. The services were 3 1/2 hours long. Mother was very sick after it. She had one of the sickest days she ever had, but we cured her up with homeopathy. We gave no great doses, but perhaps 6 little pills. I believe I have nothing more to say. Papa’s [illegible] was cured of his puffing by homeopathy.

March 7, 1857 Grandma was taken very sick indeed this morning. I went after Dr. Glewitz. He came. In the afternoon, she telegraphed to Uncle Holden to come up. Saturday evening Uncle Holden and wife came up.

Sunday morn -- Grandma is well again. She is no more faint. Yesterday she had hot bottles at her feet, head and every other part of body I believe. Papa did not go to church today for he was sick.

March 11, 1857 This morning Mother received a letter from Sister Sarah stating that she was married to Robert Wetmore. Pa and Mother feel very bad that she did not let them know it. I’m afraid that it will injure both the health of Father and Mother.

On March 2, Papa got cold in his foot by getting from a warm bed and stepping on an oilcloth, which you know is very cold indeed. He has not put his foot out of the chair from the 2nd to the 13.

March 13, 1857 We went over to Grandma’s this morning and only staid 2 hours.

March 14, 1857 It has snowed again on top of the same which fell some time ago.

March 15, 1857 Sunday. Mr. eddy from Birmingham preached for us today from John 4:13&14 and Hebrews 7:25

March 20, 1857 We, the scholars of Mr. Sedgwick’s school, have just got our pieces for Exhibition. Mine are “Tell on the Mountains” and Dr. Dodson M[?]

March 27, 1857 Our dialogue and single pieces are all committed and we are to have an exhibition on the 3rd of April.

We (at school) the scholars have given everyone a name, like this:

Edmund Buse Pluto, the god of the informal regions Cyrus Roberts Jupiter Julia Wells Juno Charles Booth Vulcan Mary Caroline Wells Venus C.M. Sterling Vesta J.W. Sterling Mars (sometimes) Neptune Geo Lamb Hercules William E. Allis Cerberus (the 3 headed dog) Henry Russell Cupid &c &c &c

April 1, 1857 Many a person have I made a fool of today.

April 7, 1857 Pa and I went down to New York. He bought me a $50 watch. We bought the watch of “Egart & Son.” Grandma is going to bring it up. I saw enough noise for one good long time. We saw Uncle and Aunt T. Sterling. I enjoyed myself very much indeed. We did not see sister. I saw a great many things worth seeing.

April 8, 1857 I staid in New York till 3.20 PM when I and Pa came home.

April 13, 1857 Our vacation commenced on the 6th. The state has gone Republican. We have had fine weather lately. I received a letter from Cyrus Roberts (who lives at Sharon Connecticut) and also a paper lately.

April 21, 1857 20th Today it has rained very hard. Why! I never saw or heard of such a rain. Mr. Sedgwick did not commence school today as he was wont. I have got a very bad cold but Pa a worse one. He has couple[?] me money for a watch and got me one. It cost $45 but the price was $50. He got me a chain (a ribbon) and a key. The man threw in the buckle; it is gold. My watch is silver and a patent lever. Papa went down to New York with me on the 7th for picking out one. We staid one night and came home on Wednesday afternoon on the 3.20 PM train. We arrived home safely at Stratford.

April 21, 1857 Today looked pleasant, but sad to tell it rained, snowed and hailed and what not. Papa is getting better. Uncle David Judson has been more or less sick for 3 or 4 months. Some day last week I think it was Thursday (today is Tuesday) I took Uncle David, Aunt Elizabeth, Elizzie (the baby) with the girl Mary Jane up to Orinoke[?] to Mrs. Natha Birdsy’s in our close carriage. There we got out and lay down for about 15 or 20 minutes. During this time I gathered some stones, for I am making a museum of minerals. We went home on the same road. After he reached home he asked his wife to read the paper to him. She did and it set him into a chill. Then they put him to bed and called for our Doctor, Glewitz.

April 26, 1857 Uncle David is so weak, nervous that he can neither speak, raise himself in the least, or walk, and also he can not see anyone but the family. School commenced on the 20th and I study Algebra, Latin, spelling, and writing with reading.

May 1, 1857 Oh! what charming weather.

May 4, 1857 Oh! what charming weather. [ditto marks]

May 6, 1857 Pa went down to New York today. We expect him home tomorrow.

May 7, 1857 Today Pa came home. He brought with him a diamond light, a small one for us to see to read with & to study by.

May 9, 1857 Today is Saturday and it is Kate’s 16th birthday. She is quite a large girl or I must call her a young lady.

May 12, 1857 Today is my birthday. I am nearly through [illegible], most to the 11th section in Days old algebra. I am 13 years old.

May 16, 1857 Today is Saturday and a very busy day it is. I have read a great deal today in Washington by Irving. I like it very much. I must go to singing school this afternoon, it is time. Excuse bad writing for I am in a great trouble[?]. This is our last singing school that Uncle Henry will take the lead of.

May 17, 1857 Today or rather tonight will be our last Sunday School Concert while Uncle Henry is here. Mr. Mitchell spoke twice, the first time about rags from which paper is made, the 2nd time about Uncle Henry’s departure. Uncle Henry spoke about his going forth. Page, Rev. Mr. spoke very feelingly concerning Uncle Henry. They sung two or three times but not many were there to sing. The whole meeting house was crowded to excess. Every person was mourning and crying. Every eye was red. No wonder we could not sing, for what a change was about to come over us -- Uncle Henry’s departure!! Uncle Henry was lamented for as much, nay more, than if the dearest sister which earth could nourish, should die. The meeting was as pathetic as could be. I never went to such a mournful spectacle, or rather I never saw such an one.

May 20, 1857 A large (about 20 x 12 inches) handsome Bible was presented to Uncle Henry by the choir. The facts were like these: Sunday before last Mr. Frederick Beardslee[?], just as the people was going out, requested that the choir should remain and raise a subscription to get Uncle Henry a Bible.

May 23, 1857 We have just had a slight thunder shower. Aunt Amanda has just arrived from New Haven to spend a week or two at Grandma’s.

May 27, 1857 The Sunday School Scholars have raised 40 or 50 dolls [dollars] in order to give Uncle Henry a clock. On the 24th they appointed a meeting in the conference room under the pretence of hearing Uncle Henry sing. The meeting was crowded. Uncle Henry came in. Before he had time to sit down, Ed Beers[?] made a speech to him and presented to him the beautiful clock. Then Uncle Henry answered by a very fine speech. Mr. Mitchell then spoke about [illegible] &c after having a hymn. Then Mr. Mitchell made a most splendid prayer and thus closed the meeting.

May 29, 1857 Uncle Henry, Aunt Mary and little Henry started in 10 oclock train for Beloit. We all had great crying spells. We, Kate, Cordelia and myself had our ambrotypes [?] taken. They were taken in a carriage as called placed between Mr. Booth and Mr. Johnson.

June 3, 1857 Lucila Northam and Cordelia took tea in Cordelia’s own room.

June 6, 1857 I believe that Cordelia’s music quarter is up. She can play a few tunes.

June 12, 1857 Pa went to New York in the 6 o’clock train. It has been a very pleasant day indeed but very windy. Pa returned this evening. He gave a present to Cordelia -- two porcelain dolls.

June 13,1857 I believe today or night the comet according to some will strike the earth, but instead of this the telegraphic pole in front of Henry Rogers’s store. In New York there is a civil war. Out West houses, corn, grain, trees &C are blown down. On the Ocean, ships were lost. And a great many other things, which time will not allow me to mention.

June 20, 1857 We have had a very rainy week indeed.

June 23, 1857 Today Mother went to Bridgeport in the cars and Pa, Cordelia and Kate rode after her in the afternoon.

June 27, 1857 Today I went to Bridgeport in the cars -- I never went in the cars alone before this morning! Pa drove Kate, Mother and Cordelia over to Bridgeport. He brought me home again. On the 21st (Sunday) Mr. Thatcher preached for us in the afternoon.

June 29, 1857 Today is unpleasant.

July 1, 1857 Today is unpleasant [ditto marks]

July 2, 1857 Today is unpleasant [ditto marks] I am gigging a ship. I did in ["did in" crossed out] commenced it in the month May. I casted an anchor yesterday and it is very handsome indeed. I had such good luck, I will cast another. I do not get much time to play or work.

July 2, 1857 I casted an anchor for my ship this morning. I am preparing for the Fourth of July. Hoddy Russel and Henry Benjamin have been here to see my anchor. We have been firing off my cannon, my largest one, the one that David Ogden gave me. It is about 6 inches long. It makes more noise or as much as one of these heavy pounders, for its size. There was never such cold weather in July. I am preparing my cannons for the Fourth of July. O dear! I hope that we shall have some pleasant weather tomorrow. I long for a happy Fourth! Utinam haberum felicum dum.

July 4, 1857 I am on the Academy Hill at 5:10 AM firing crackers, the cannon belonging to Joshua Sands, ringing the Academy Bell &C. The Episcopalians, after a long perseveriance, have succeded in making a fair. It is placed between the Episcopal Church and Brick School House. I have just come from there (now 5 o’clock). I have bought a very large number of things. Pa took Cordelia over to Bridgeport to stay a few days. This morning there was every prospect of having an unpleasant day, but, contrary to expectation, it came off beautiful. There has been no hot weather yet -- what a cold summer. Fourth of July I had woolen clothes on.

July 6, 1857 I have been working all day nearly. I have been over to Jimmie Mitchell’s playing chess -- I beat him. Vacation commences today. I picked 4 qts. of cherries today. It is a beautiful day.

July 11, 1857 Today is a beautiful day. Uncle David is getting better slowly. He was moved from his bedroom in a rocking chair to the parlor. He saw the store, but it did not affect him in the least. I have been picking cherries today. I went to Bridgeport yesterday. It is getting to be warmer. I do not like warm weather much.

July 12, 1857 Mr. McLain preached for us today. He gave us two grand sermons. Oh! that we could have such sermons every Sunday.

July 13, 1857 Today is Monday. I am picking cherries again. It is a delightful day.

July 14, 1857 We all went over to Bridgeport. Kate to get her teeth filled, Cordelia to get her teeth filled, I to get a new straw hat, Papa to tend to his business in the bank.

July 15, 1857 Henry & Charlie Booth, George Strong and myself went on a picnic to “pumpkin” ground -- we had a first rate time. Got home about one o’clock. This afternoon I drove Aunt Elizabeth to Bridgeport to get some farina for Uncle David’s dinner.

July 16, 1857 It’s a little warmer than it has been, although it is not what you would call “hot weather.” Took Aunt Elizabeth to Bridgeport. Julia and Abby Ogden came today from New Haven to make Grandma a visit.

July 17, 1857 Julia and Abby, Grandma came over and drank tea with us.

July 18, 1857 Drove Aunt Lizzy to Bridgeport this afternoon. About 1 o’clock I got over a very violent headache -- don’t like to be sick. I drove the Ogden girls all over town. Got home by 6:30

July 19, 1857 It is a beautiful day. Uncle David is improving fast.

July 20, 1857 I do not feel very well. Hot weather is coming I guess now.

July 27, 1857 School commenced today. We have had 3 weeks vacation. I enjoyed it very much. Two nights ago Uncle David had one of his poor turns. His lamp smoked over which she heats his supper. The baby cried and Aunt Lizzie had to see to her (by the way, Uncle David had called here downstairs only a few moments ago to console him). Doctor came to the door (but the door was locked) and Uncle David sent Mary to the door and she, having made a little noise in opening the door, called for the Doctor but he was gone by this time it was about 3 o’clock and Uncle David having had no sleep during the night, sent for the Doctor. He came and gave Uncle David some medicine and finally he got to sleep. Today is not very pleasant. Mr. Sedgwick has 60 scholars -- a large number for summer. I study Latin-Cicero, Days Algebra, spelling, reading, and writing.

July 28, 1857 Today is Thursday. It is a very pleasant day.

July 29, 1857 Today is unpleasant. Last night we had a thunder shower. The lightning was very vivid indeed. It was almost a blaze. It must have been very heavy somewhere. Our school commenced at 8 o’clock AM and closed at 3 o’clock PM

July 30, 1857 Today is Commencement Day at New Haven. Mr. Sedgwick let us have a holiday. He was going to New Haven in his boat, but I guess he did not, for it has rained constantly since this morning (as I am glad to say). I took my drawing lesson this morning as usual (I have taken about every other day for a month.)

Aug 1, 1857 Today is Saturday -- very pleasant

Aug 3, 1857 Have to go to school every day in the week except Saturday and Sunday. I have been thinking about studying Philosophy, but I have too many studies without that. Cicero (Latin) and algebra (Day’s old edition), also spelling, reading and writing. I generally take in Cicero about one page, sometimes more, and at others less. I am at Cicero’s third oration against Cataline. In algebra I am at Demonstration of Theorems. Last Saturday Pa took Mr. Mitchell and Jimmie Mitchell with myself down to sail. We sailed some and then went to Meadows End. I and Jimmie went in swimming (By the way, Jim cannot swim, but I can) while Pa and Mr. Mitchell dug clams. Nothing has happened this week worthy of recording except no very hot weather.

Aug 1, 1857 Grandma was sick last night, but better now. She has got well.

Aug 14, 1857 Grandma got up well this morning but she drank a cup of coffee and it lodged in her chest and caused her a great deal of pain. Then she sent over for Mother to come over. Dr. Glewitz being in New York. She went over and gave her not quite a spoonful of brandy mixed with water. She got rid of this pain. Grandma then turned pale and her mouth being drawn on one side tried to speak (Mother and Aunt Lizzie being frightened sent over George, Uncle David’s man, to bring Pa) but she could not for a few moments. But after awhile she said to Mother, “Catherine you have made me tipsy.” Mother did not think at the time that it was a paralysis, as it proved afterwards to be. She felt better that she could sit up in her chair and did within the half hour before she died. Finally she died sitting up in her chair without a struggle or a groan, while Pa, Aunt Elizabeth and Mary Ann, her girl, were with her. So Grandma has gone.

Aug 15,1857 Today is Saturday. Aunt Amanda and Uncle Ogden came this morning at 10 o’clock. Uncle Holden, his wife, at 11 AM. David Ogden and Dan Holden in the boat (David O has been making a visit at Uncle Holden’s).

Aug 16, 1857 Grandma’s funeral took place today. Mr. Mitchell made a few very affecting remarks and Mr. Page the same. His were very good. Pa is whiter and stiller than I ever saw him before. He feels very bad indeed. Pa thought that Mr. Page made a beautiful speech.

Aug 18, 1857 Today is Tuesday. Uncle Holden and his wife expect to stay here a day or two. Uncle William (we and Uncle Holden and everyone thought that Uncle W. was on the ocean or in Europe) Judson had been in New York 8 or 9 days when Grandma died. It is a very shameful thing (and the family feel it very much indeed) that Uncle William did not write

Aug 20, 1857 Today is the anniversary of Mother’s marriage with Pa. We will not celebrate it for the great reason that Grandma died. We have a great deal of company now.

Aug 26, 1857 We have beautiful weather now. We have had a debating meeting this evening. Jimmy Mitchell, David Ogden, Kate and myself and Mary Hunter being the members there of. The subject was celibacy. I was made President. After we had done debating, we had ice cream. We each were given names: David “Og, king of Bashan”, Jimmie, “Mr Pumes”, Kate “Sharvandasee, fat and larg” I, “Mr Post MD”

Sept 1, 1857 Lizzie Hertins came to make us a visit. She lives in Pequonic.

Sept 5, 1857 Fred and Theo Booth had a little party and of course Cordelia was invited.

Sep 8, 1857 Mother and Cordelia Kate went to Bridgeport to spend the day. Pa bought an Indian Rubber tumbler to drink out of when we go away to Beloit. Yesterday morning sister had the boldness to go to New York. She came up with Robert on Saturday night. They did not go out of the house all day Sunday. She spoke to Ann Sunday night. Monday morning she patted Sancho as he went down the street. He probably knew her. Osborn took them to the depot in his carriage. They passed by our house. Pa and Mother and Ann saw them. I did too but did not know them. She dresses very handsomely indeed.

From the 8 to 14 Sept, 1857 Uncle David has got so that he rides out twice a day. He is improving fast. Their plan for the winter is this - that he and his wife with their two children with two servants to take care of them shall go to New York (as there it is warmer than it is here), through the month of October and thence (as the winter sets in) to go farther south. They expect to go to New York in this way - first to take the cars to Bridgeport and thence in the steamboat to New York. They say that Mr. Brooks is expelled from the Post Office the first of October -- it is bad news for him, I should think. Pa has been marking out with the Society Committee the place for the New Congregational Church. He is Treasurer. They wanted him to be President, but he refused. (What an awful thing it is to be bashful). Mr. Page has been absent all the week at American Board. He returned on the 12th. His youngest child is sick with the dysentery. The dysentery is prevalent now. I went to Bridgeport with Doctor Glewitz today the 12th. He has got a beautiful little pony.

Sept 15, 1857 I have just been riding with Dr. Glewitz -- he expects to go to New York this winter and sell his furniture. Stratford will be very dismal this winter for not only are the New York folks going away but Doctor, Uncle David, Mr. Charles Booth and family and a great many more. The ship builders Mr White and Brother will launch a fine schooner at 10 o’clock tomorrow. This will make the 3 vessel they have built.

Sept 16, 1857 I went to school this morning as usual, but came out at half past 9 o’clock to see the schooner launched. She was launched at half past 10 o’clock this morning. It was a beautiful sight. I went to school this afternoon as usual, recited my algebra and when my Cicero was called out he (Mr. Sedgwick) asked where I was, looking around the school room said to me (I being at my seat) “John, have you got your lesson?” “No sir” said I. “I guess you didn’t think that there would be a school this afternoon did you?” rejoined he. “No sir, I thought you would let out,” replied I. I thought I should get a scolding, but I did not. Alice Curtis is getting along poorly in her studies, I am sorry to say. Neither Asa or she are good for anything at learning.

Sept 17, 1857 It is growing very cold and chilly. I peel and slice a good many apples for drying.

Sept 18, 1857 We have just heard a mighty shipwreck. 525 lives lost!!!! The Central America is her name. She was from California. 200 were saved. It is a very rainy. I have made some water pots for Mother this afternoon. Two or three nights ago 2 or 3 men came into our yard to steal or break in. Sancho barked so that they went away. I heard them talk. They left our front gate open.

Sept 26, 1857 We have made up our mind to go out West if nothing unusual prevents. Uncle David really went to New York this morning with his wife. Uncle David hired a separate car. Doctor Gleiwitz went with them. Everyone thinks getting out from Stratford will do him good. We hope so sincerely. Mr. Mitchell is getting a top put on his chimney and a custom made. There were never such hard times as there are now -- banks are suspending and stocks going down.

Oct 3, 1857 Today is Saturday. Mother is packing. Pa and I went to Bridgeport. Uncle David is more comfortable than he has been. He is going to Charlestown next week on W-- in a steamer with his wife. Elizabeth is going to Aunt Catherine’s and the baby to Aunt Julia’s.

Afternoon -- The baby was taken sick this morning. Aunt Lizzie with her father, Mary, the girl, drove down to Bridgeport. She is going to send Mary down to Uncle David’s so that they can be all ready to sail Wednesday.

Evening -- The child is worse

Sunday -- The child is a little better. Some hopes of her living. I hope she will.

Monday -- The baby is worse. We do not think that we shall go, but Doctor says that we shall do no good if we stay. Mr. Mitchell and Page have just been in here to tell the same things that Doctor and Aunt Lizzie have just told us. We have got our things all packed and shall start on the ten o’clock train if nothing unforeseen happen. I will now copy down from my memorandum book all the events that transpired on my journey:

An October Spent in the West

Monday, October 5, 1857 As I passed the Housatonic River I noticed all the country as far as I could see was hill and valley, trees and stumps. The hills were in the form of a semi-circle and were beautiful. The Housatonic all the way is very shallow indeed. The water as it dashes over the rocks looks as if there some flat bodied monsters trying to stop the rivers flowing.

While Mother and I were talking of what is pretty view of the hills and trees we had, also about Mr. Sedgwick’s school I received two punches on my 5th rib (only protected by my coat) in succession. Hooked around and behold it was a woman who called me to set with her. She said that she knew Mr. Sedgwick and asked all about his school. She told me as we went by a very large handsome barn that a man by name Mr. [name illegible] built it, but cost $3,000. She pointed out to me Mr. Sedgwick’s brother’s house -- a large fine looking house. He keeps a school. The number of scholars limited to 20. I reached Albany about 6 o’clock, went up to the Capitol, the floors of which are marble. Pa got us two rooms which opened on to each other with two beds. We all went to bed, we were so sleepy after traveling one whole day. A man who was very white showed me the Asylum at Rome.

Tuesday, Oct 6, 1857 Reached Suspension Bridge at night, went directly to the Mont-Eagle Hotel, the building that Mr. David Tomlinson (Miss Polly’s brother) was interested in

Wednesday, Oct 7, 1857 We all rode over the Suspension Bridge in a omnibus. The bridge was wonderful. How they ever got those heavy cables across and after that the bridge hung on it I can not conceive. The cars go right over our heads without any noise at all. As I went through Canada, I noticed what straight pines grew there, also the hills, how steep. We could see Niagara Falls from this bridge and also the Genesee Falls from the cars. I had a very pleasant man sit by me. He was a Green Mountain Boy. He was going out west to look him up a place.

Evening -- We have concluded to travel all night tonight. This Vermont farmer (he really was a blacksmith) took a seat by the window in order that I could lie down on his knees. I did so and slept about two hours in this manner. We arrived at Greenbush about 4:30 AM.

Thursday -- We crossed on a steamboat or rather ferryboat to Detroit, got in the Michigan Central and reached Chicago about 12 o’clock noon. We ate our dinner at the Richmond House. Reached Beloit about 3 o’clock in the afternoon. We found Uncle Henry waiting for us. We rode right up in an omnibus to Uncle Henry’s. Pa and Mother staid at Uncle John’s, we children at Uncle Henry’s.

Friday -- We are running backwards and forwards all the time. I have taken quite a fancy to Kittie Plant. I think that she is just like Mother. Jimmie is quite rough. Uncle John is a good deal better than I expected to find him. He looks fat and healthy to me, but is liable to be taken down at any time. Cordelia has a sort of wildness in head, feels as if she was riding in the cars.

Saturday -- Today it is beautiful. The sky is so clear. Uncle John took me a riding today as he did yesterday. Cordelia is about the same perhaps a little worse. Pa feels somewhat anxious.

Monday -- We went down town this morning. Received a letter from Mr. Mitchell which was very gratifying to us.

Tuesday -- We started this morning for home. both families came down to the depot. Travelling all night, we reached Detroit about 6:30 AM

Wednesday -- Reached Niagara about night. Looked at the rapids and other things. It is raining hard.

Thursday -- We hired a carriage $1.00 per hour to take us around the falls. First we went to Goat Island. Followed it around till we stood right in front of the Canada Falls. We all got out under a shed and looked at the falls. I took an umbrella (for it carried tremendously) and went down the bank which is in front of us. Then on to the bridge, which leads to the tower. Ascended the tower and from it could view the Canada and American Falls. Then went up the hill and succeeded to get Kate and Mother into the tower.

Thursday, Oct 15 1857 We went all around Goat Island, thence to the Suspension Bridge, across it (fare for each across the bridge 25), thence to a large house or store in front of both American and Canadian falls. I, Kate and Mother went up in the observatory. After we had all been satisfied, we thought we could take the cars to Marcellus. So we waited about half an hour at the depot and then rode till we reached Rochester. We waited there about one hour trying to find out, in the meantime, if there were any carriages at Marcellus. We could not find out, so we concluded to stop at Auburn, a beautiful place. We reached Auburn at 9:00, went to the American House. Had private rooms, 3 beds in 2 rooms, what do you think of that?

Friday -- I got up early this morning to look around the place. Found it as everyone says, a beautiful city. I saw the State Prison. We started from Auburn about 9:30 AM and reached Marcellus about 10 AM. We got in the stage and reached at last Aunt Sarah’s. They expected us in the two o’clock train. They were very glad to see us indeed as we were them also. We found Uncle William and Aunt Sarah’s talking of our coming.

Saturday -- Cornelia Plant has just drove down here to take Kate and me up there. I drove them both. About noon Uncle Beach drove all of his and my family up to Uncle William's. Uncle William and I had a long talk. About 4 o’clock PM Uncle Beach took Aunt Sarah, Cordelia and Kate and I home. We have just heard of an awful accident which happened about 5 miles from Syracuse on the embankment. It has rained so much lately that it had washed the embankment so much that the rails and tiles gave way. About 3 or 4 were killed and a great many severely injured. One man was found holding his bowels in his hands. One lady we became acquainted with in the cars was in that same car or train. The statement did not say that she was injured. We left this same train at Rochester. Henry and I were running and I stepped on a large stone which sprained my foot badly.

Sunday -- My foot is so bad that I can not walk on it at all.

Monday --Rain, Rain, Rain. We were invited to Mrs. Chapman’s but we could not go.

Tuesday -- It is snowing. I don’t see but what we shall have to postpone our visit to Uncle William’s, but the carriages are all ready, as we shall go. We had a delightful talk before dinner. They had a turkey for dinner and other eatables which were good for the stomach. I staid all night and slept with William.

Wednesday -- We all went down to Uncle Beach’s to dinner. I went down to Uncle Beach’s sawmill and drew the works and machinery on a piece of paper in red ink. I staid at Uncle William’s all night.

Thursday -- I came from Uncle William’s to Uncle Beach’s. He is going to take us to the depot. Mother put into her sachel our maple sugar which Uncle William gave us. There were 3 large junks. At 10 o’clock we reached the depot. But the train did not go till 11:30. Night -- We reached Albany about 5:30 PM. Took the steamer New World, the largest of Hudson, and got a state room, No. 7

Friday morning -- I got up at 4 o’clock to look at the Highlands and Palasades. The rest of the family arose at 6:30 AM. Reached New York about 8:15 AM. Took a carriage across the city to carry us. We at last reached Peck Slip where the Bridgeport was waiting for us. We sailed about 10 o’clock AM and reached Bridgeport about 3 PM. We waited for the train for Stratford and reached at last our own depot. Found Jimmy waiting for us. We were as glad to Ann and Mrs. Gorham and our own house as we would have been to see our own house after an absence of 3 years instead of 3 weeks.

Saturday Last night I went over to the post office to hear the mail read off. Everybody in the whole post office asked me, Well, Johnnie, how did you like the Western country? Would you like to live there? Is he on a farm? When is he coming on? How is his brother John? I suppose you have seen all there is to be seen haven’t you? I did not know people took so much notice of me before.

Saturday, Oct 24, 1857 Hubbell and Curtis have come up and attached Dr. Gliewitz’s property for a debt of 59 dollars, which Dr. had failed to pay for his furniture. Doctor is in New York. He took his horse and carriage with him to New York 2 weeks ago. He came up last night to get a trunk and other things. He went down and George carried his trunk to the depot early.

Morning -- We all went to Bridgeport. It does not rain much.

Monday, 26 Oct 1857 -- Pa, Jimmie and George Trigger are all out in the shop mending a wheelbarrow and putting a new arm in.

Tuesday, 27 Oct 1857 -- Cordelia and I have made it a rule to study one hour or two every day this week. Vacation ends Sunday.

Wednesday, 28 Oct 1857 -- Unpleasant day. They keep a man all the time in Doctor Gliewitz’s house to watch the goods. Doctor’s girl is there. She is most scared to death. The people are saying all sorts of things against the Doctor, especially Dr. Goulding. They are trying now to prove that he has not had a classical education, which of course can not be doubted, for look at his books which he has written. Are trying to say that he is a Roman Catholic because he rode once or twice with him when he was buying his horse. But he never paid for the horse: Left a bill ["left a bill" crossed through] owes Russell 20, Hubbell and Curtis 59 (now more on the cost of his attachment), Mr. Hill, Methodist minister, a very clever man, for a carriage 50. Catholic priest (I don’t know how much but) for the balance, which remains to be paid. Stag $12.00 Printers in Bridgeport 50.00 (Pa $5 for a load of hay). Mr. Hill has just gone down to get his money. The Catholic priest went down Saturday and got his money in gold.

Evening -- Mr. Hill has just returned from New York with 5 ten dollar gold pieces, which Doctor owed him.

Thursday -- Cordelia and I are going to dig a hole for to put ice in. Afternoon -- I and Cordelia have just been out digging a hole about 3 ft square and 2.6 deep. We have covered the hole with boards except a place big enough to crawl out.

Friday -- Pa, Mother and Kate went to Bridgeport. Cordelia and I staid at home and played. This afternoon we went out and dug our hole about 3.6 deep and we put the dirt on the boards which makes a handsome mound.

Saturday, Oct 31, 1857 Unpleasant day. I took my boats down to Mr. Dayton’s to be mended. This afternoon I have been working at my hole in the ground. Am going to draw the dirt up by dog

power, that is

Sunday, Nov 1, 1857 Today Mr. Page preached two very good sermons. We went to monthly concert tonight, very good one.

Monday, Nov 2, 1857 Got up about 5:15 AM to write this and other things. School begins today.

Wednesday, Nov 4, 1857 Mr. Sedgwick has just given me a chemistry. I think I shall like it. Am going to make an air pump.

Thursday, Nov 5, 1857 I have just been finishing the cylinder and piston, so that they will draw water.

Nov 6, 1857 Today I wrote the names of the Child’s papers and Cordelia and I are going to distribute them. Afraid we can not find out half of the seats.

Afternon -- We have come back from the church with about half of the papers.

Nov 7, 1857 Mr. Fred Beardslee distributed the papers, which we had left.

Nov 13, 1857 Pa has just consented to let me keep rabbits. He never would before for he always said that they would get out and eat up all the bark of his trees. But now I have got my dog so well trained that he will draw my boards whenever I wish him to. We drew all the boards which would measure about 100 feet. I am going to shingle it so that the corn can not get in. My pen is about 7 feet long & 3 wide. I made it all by myself. Was I not smart?

Tues, Nov 18, 1857 I have concluded that if I succeed in raising a large number of rabbits I shall need a larger pen, so I am about building another. It is as long as the other, 3 feet wide, 2.5 feet at the highest part and two in the lowest. I am going to plank it. I have engaged a rabbit, but he has not come.

Nov 22, 1857 My pen is finished and I have just come home. I have been at Bob Burritt’s house after my rabbit, but we could find him not, for it rained, so I came home again and got wet through. I then went down to Mr. Tucker’s store after some worsted. While I was waiting, Misses Irma and Harriet Sands came in. They bought some candy and gave me some pig-paste, which was very good. They were about to start for home in all the rain. I then offered to go home after an umbrella, but she wouldn’t let me. But she said that I might to up to Mr. R. Curtis’s if I could and get an umbrella which he offered to her. I then went up to Mr. Curtis’s store and brought down the umbrella and when I came into the store, she presented me with a beautiful large orange. At first I refused the offer, but she pressed me so hard I was forced to take it. I told her I did not want any pay for it, for I did with pleasure, but she said I did not give it to you for pay, but because we liked you.

Nov 25, 1857 Bob Burrit (Wilberforce Burrit) was not at school this morning and I can not help but feel anxious.

Evening -- the boy has come at last with my beautiful white rabbit with red eyes. I have just found out the reason why we could not find the rabbit before. Mary Bristol, a girl next neighbor to the rabbit, called her from the lot and hid her for she had heard us talk about taking her away. I am so pleased with my pen that I must give a picture of it here. So here it is Well, now I must turn to some other incidents in my life.

Dec 7, 1857 Lester Youngs today put his white doe in. I keep all my 3 rabbits in one pen, that is , all together. In my big and largest pen, I have made an apartment of lash[?] (each side is lined so that they cannot gnaw for they will eat wood most as fast as turnips). Between these two pens there is a little slide which I can open and shut, but the rabbits can not go through. I have the advantage over them. Lester Youngs and I made a contract as follows: “Lester Youngs and John W. Sterling do each promise that after the 17th day of November 1857, Lester Youngs shall put his doe with John W. Sterling’s doe in John W. Sterling’s pen. That we shall raise as many litters as possible. Lester Youngs furnishing one quarter of the food or as much as he is able to. That Lester Youngs shall sell them in New York or any other place for .50 per pair (more if he can get it). That one half of the money received from Lester Youngs’ rabbits shall go to John W. Sterling. That one eighth of money received from J.W. Sterling’s rabbits shall go to Lester Youngs. s/ JW Sterling s/ C Lester Youngs Witness Cordelia Sterling

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Dec 10, 1857 Day before yesterday Jimmy and I went down to Uncle Henry’s house and in the cellar we found a very large box, which had some coal and coal dust in it. I gave the coal to Jimmy and he carried it up home for me. I put it in the shop in the northeast part by the window. I have covered it over, have two lids for it. By the way, I have partitioned it, so that the rabbits can hatch their young in a warm place.

Dec 15, 1857 Capt Northam came home from New York a few nights since and told his wife that he could not stand riding in the cars so much. So the husband and wife agreed: but their children could not. So Mrs. Northam promised them that they should have parties and everything else. They were partly subdued, but not entirely. Capt Northam has hired a house in Brooklyn for 3 years. He takes our house till May.

Dec 16, 1857 Capt Northam had partly engaged a steamboat to come up and take his things down to New York for $100.00, but has got now a sloop for $25.00 -- quite a difference. Gussy and Lucia Northam are going to stay here tonight.

Dec 17, 1857 Rose at 6 o’clock. Called Ann. Waked up Pa for he is going to Bridgeport in the 7:30 AM train to tend to some business in the Bridgeport bank. Pa and I got our breakfast at 6:35 but the rest did not till 8:15, a pretty late meal for the first. I bid Gussy Northam goodbye and went to school and when I came home I found Uncle Holden and Mr. Hawley who had come up to prove Grandma’s will. They dined with us. Uncle Holden had some business with Pa and so the two men got Osborn to take them down to Bridgeport. He saw Pa and did his business with him.

Dec 18, 1857 I got up at 5 o’clock this morning. Came downstairs and lighted the Diamond lamp. Learned my algebra lesson and have written from the top of page 73. It rains like everything, but I must go to my rabbits now.

Dec 19, 1857 I am going to make a sawmill, but shall not get it finished in a good while. The water wheel is 8.5 inches in diameter and 10 inches long. It is an undershot wheel.

Dec 20, 1857 Today Mr. Page preached. There’s a strong revival in town.

Dec 21, 1857 Got up at 4 o’clock. I came downstairs, studied till 6:30 AM. Sister Sarah came from New York today and will spend the night with us. I can give no more particulars, but they have been written in Pa’s journal. I suppose I’ll let that be the last book!!

Dec 22, 1857 Pa went down to the depot with Sarah. Paid her passage and waited upon her in the cars. I have finished Cicero. I take 50 lines in the Aenid of Virgil.

Dec 23, 1857 It is a raw chilly day and I must feed my rabbits in a minute. Got up 5 o’clock, came downstairs and went to studying my chemistry and Virgil. It has taken me 3 hours in all to get my Virgil, although I was slow. Now I have got it.

Dec 24, 1857 Mr. Sedgwick today is learning us to scan. We get along with it very nicely. I like it very much, but it is hard.

Dec 25, 1857 Today is Christmas. We had placed all our Christmas presents upon the little table in the dining room with a white tablecloth over it. Pa got a beautiful portfolio from Kate, a lead pencil and piece of India Rubber from Cordelia, and a cunning little matchbox stand so made that you can light a match on any side of it. Mother received from Kate a beautiful tidy, from Cordelia a handsome needle book, from myself 3 nice tubs or pails and a paper cutter. Cordelia received 4 books, one from Kate, the other 3 from Mother, an ivory penholder and papercutter from myself. Kate received a $100 gold watch from her parents, Tenison’s Poems from Cordelia and I and a Latin letter and flower frame from me. I received History of England and Bayard Taylor’s Travels in China, India and Japan from Mother. Ann received a dress from Mother.

Dec 26, 1857 It snowed today, not much fun.

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