John William Sterling Journal: January 1853-December 1858
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
John Sterling Papers
MS 1097
Box 1
Folder 6
Transcription 1853 through 1858
Flyleaf
“Put not off till tomorrow what can be done today.”
Mr. John W. Sterling from Stratford, Conn.
Presented by his mother for a Christmas present, 1853
1853 Journal
Jan 1, 1853 Today is Saturday the first day of the new year. I received the book which I am now writing for a journal as a Christmas present and I intend to write down the principle events that happened. David Ogden has been spending the past week with me. I have enjoyed myself very much and we have been playing around the house and have had splendid time and Jimmy Mitchell has sometimes played with us.
[Transcriber Note: There are many misspellings in the early Sterling journals. These spellings have not been changed. Also his handwriting at times is very hard to decipher as it is the writing of an eight-year-old child when the journals begin.]
Jan 8, 1853 Today being Saturday Papa and I went down to Grandpa’s barn and worked nearly all
the forenoon. Then we went up to Wheelers mill with one bag of corn and one of rye to be ground
together for our horse because he is so old that he can’t bite it very well.
Jan 13, 1853 Today is snowing very hard and the people can’t hardly get along the street. Mr. F.
Beardslee had a sled drawn around the streets making a path. Me and Papa have been making a sled
for the snow is up to the fences and the mail did not come this morning and Delia is printing a book
and I must tell the name of it and its name the house that Jack [built?]. It does no good to make
paths for when you do the snow will come and cover it up and when Ann Lynch went out this
morning she tumbled down and cut her knee and as how got before her and she said that he got
before her and me and papa went down to the barn and I found that it was pretty hard work so papa
was going up to the shop and so he push me down and [unknown word] me over.
Jan 15, 1853 Today is saturday the slaying continues very good and the wether [sic] is very mild for
winter. Papa took all us children a sleigh riding and we did some errands for mother and I spent the
rest of the day in the front room and then I went to slide downhill and Cordelia is not going to
school any more and Miss [name illegible] says that she must come to school some pleasant day. I
have just commenced Smith English grammer. [sic] I am in Decimal fraction. I generally do a portion of
my sums evenings. I am almost through my spelling book.
Jan 21, 1853 A delightful day the snow which fell last week is still upon the ground and sleighing
is tolerable good. Papa and I went to Bridgeport in the sleigh last week. General Pierce who is to
be made President in the spring was travelling on the railcars with his wife and his only son the cars
upset and the little boy 13 years of age was kill instantly. General Pierce took up his son and his hat
fell off and he found his head crush and his father and mother grieve for him very much.
Jan 22, 1853 A fine day. Papa took all the family except my sister sleigh riding. We stopped at the
new house for mother to look at it to see that all the shelves were put in the right places in the
cubbords. The new house stands directly by the Episcopal burying ground. Uncle Henry has a
singing school every Saturday night. Aunt Sarah receives 2 letters a week from Mr. Beach. They are
sometimes written with red and blue and sometimes with black ink and people think they are going
to get Married. Kitty has read the Bible and obtained the $1 that mother had promised and I am as
far as the first Kings.
Feb 5, 1853 We are expecting Mary and Martha and Hal Flagg to spend this afternoon with us. We
have had two rainy day during the past week which have taken nearly all the snow off the ground. It
is now very muddy. Last Saturday Cordelia and I took tea with Jimmy Mitchell. Mother has had
company two afternoons during the past week. Mr. Sedgwick and Miss Upson took tea with
us last evening. I had much pleasure in talking with Miss Upson. She is my teacher and we all like
her very much indeed. I am in the begining of interest in grammer. I have learned the Declension
of verbs. Mother has had a letter from Sister. She is rather homesick.
Feb 7, 1853 Yesterday being sundy I read 10-12 verses. I am over 2 II Chronicles. Kitty gave me
some pens and I made handles and a stand to put them in and I am now writing with it.
Feb 10, 1853 A very fine day. Father Mother and Aunt Sarah rode to Bridgeport. Ann Lynch has
lived here one year yesterday. We had a little company last evening. Mother has had Mrs. Flagg her
favorite here. Uncle Henry Plant has cuts [?] this winter instead of mother.
Feb 12, 1853 A very fine day indeed the sun shines beautiful. Papa and myself rode to Bridgeport. Libby Booth came here to make a visit for Kitty.
Feb 26, 1853 I have been sick this last week with a swelling on the back part of my mouth over my
tooth. My face has been very much swelled and it has caused me much pain.
March 2, 1853 A fine day it did rain yesterday and day before. Mr Beach arrived this evening from
Marcellus. He has come to take Aunt Sarah for his wife so by and by we will call him Uncle
Beach. Mama has already got 3 kinds of cake for the wedding. Mr. Beach is staying at our house.
March 4, 1853 Mr Beach and Aunt Sarah are at Uncle Henry’s. They have a man making some
boxes for their furniture. General Pierce inaugerted president today he is a Democrat and he was
elected last fall.
March 8, 1853 Aunt Sarah got married to Mr. Beach. Papa says that the wedding went off
beautiful. I made a immage of a lady of snow and a little dog. Grandma Judson family and Uncle
Henry Plant and Mr. and Mrs. Russell and Uncle Ogden were at the wedding. Mr (illegible name)
married them. Uncle Beach and Aunt Sarah went in the ten o’clock train to Marcellus.
March 15 A very fine day but it is very cold. My sister Cordelia Sterling’s birthday is very near and
then she will be 7 years old. My sister Catherine is writing her composition. She began to write
first when she was 10 years old and she is now 11.
March 22, 1853 The weather is very fine and the sun shines beautiful like Spring. We feel very
lonesome without Aunt Sarah and sister Sarah, but we expect Sister Sarah soon.
March 25, 1853 Today being exibition and examination to my sister Catherine. Composition was
readed by Emeline Potter from Chicago. They had some splendid pieces to speak at the exibition
which was in the evening we had a snow squall at noon.
March 28, 1853 Catherine my sister is writing a letter to Uncle John Plant. She has written 3 pages
and one half. We are all going to Bridgeport today.
March 30, 1853 Uncle Daniel Sterling died today. He was taken worse very suddenly though he
has been sick as much as a year.
April 1, 1853 We have had a very pleasant time April fooling. Sister came home yesterday. She
brought me a beautiful writing desk. She gave Catherine a beautiful hymn book and she gave
Cordelia a dry slate and a book.
April 4, 1853 I am now writing in a thunder shower. This is the first thunder shower we have had
this season. This is Election day. The Democratic had the greatest votes. It has rained nearly all
day. We have now very pleasant times since Sister came home. Papa was moderator at the town
house after diner Papa sent me after some peanuts.
April 5, 1853 Very unpleasant day it did rain all day. Tomorrow we are invited to Cousin Frederick
Sterling’s wedding. He is going to be married to Miss Barnam.
April 6, 1853 This morning it began to sprinkle a little first and then it rained at different times
during the day. It was 2 o’clock we were just going to the wedding and then it began to rain and then
we could not go. We have had an unusually large number of April showers this month. I do not
remember when we have had so many before.
April 14, 1853 Quite a rainy day, thunder showers at half past 4 o’clock. Sister Sarah expects
company this afternoon and the grass looks very green after these showers. We have two or three
bushels of apples in our cellar. Miss [name illegible] Booth expected go to New York this morning.
Papa and I generaly go out to the barn directly after breakfast and cut hay with a cutting machine.
April 15, 1853 Today being Friday a very fine day. I have been assisting Papa at makeing fences.
April 23, 1853 A very fine day indeed. Danny Holden and his mother went down to New York this
afternoon at 1 o’clock he came Thursday night yesterday we took tea with grandmama.
April 25, 1853 very unpleasant day
May 3, 1853 Very pleasant day it has been very pleasant during the past week or so. We have had
weights put in our two parler windows. Mr Vance has been doing the work. He is now enlarging
my room.
May 4, 1853 Very unpleasant day large drops this morning but still I think that it will rain.
May 5, 1853 Very pleasant day the sun is up bright. I think that Issiah Norris [name illegible] about 12 years old
will come to see me at Norwalk on the New Haven railroad. The bridge was opened and the cars
going at the rate of 20 miles an hour. The cars going so swift it gave a leap to the weather [?] side of
the bridge fell down in the water and bringing along the locomotive, baggage car and two passenger
cars the watter was about 15 feet deep.
May 9, 1853 Kitty is 12 years old today. I gave her 12 kisses. On the 12th of May is my birthday.
May 10, 1853 My birthday is very near. I expect that I shall have good many [?] gifts.
May 12, 1853 I am 9 years old today. Mother gave me a present which was a bible to look out the
text with. I expect one from Delia.
May 13, 1853 Very pleasant day the sun has came out bright. This afternoon I am going to see
Jimmy Mitchell. They are building a addition to there house. Our apples have lasted to this day. I
am delighted with my new room. I think it the pleasants in the house. We have a new red carpet
and [illegible] for our dining room.
May 16, 1853 Very pleasant day. The sun is out bright as most days. Uncle Ogden came up today.
I found my knife the other day.
May 117, 1853 Yesterday and today has been the warmest days this summer. Kitty is sick today she
has a earache. I feel very sorry for her.
May 19, 1853 Very unpleasant day. We went to Bridgeport and when we got there we went to a
store and bought ice cream and then came home. Miss Polly Tomlinson is building addition to her
house in the NW part.
June 1, 1853 Fine growing weather. This is the first day of summer.
June 2, 1853 It is 18 years today since my Grandmama Plant died.
June 3, 1853 Very pleasant day. Sister Sarah spent the day in New Haven.
June 4, 1853 There was a very severe thunder shower last evening. There were 2 very hard claps of
thunder which appeared very near us. One of them struck Mr. (name illegible) pole in his yard.
June 9, 1853 Very pleasant day. We have had very pleasant days after the last thunder shower. I like
my room very much. I have been employed in the shop making things for my sisters.
June 11, 1853 Very pleasant day. The summer is up to [heat?] and 2 acres facing to the sun.
June 13, 1853 Very pleasant day I have enjoyed myselve very much. I think my room looks very
well. Papa and Mother and Kitty are going to Marcellus.
June 15, 1853 Papa and Mama and Kitty have gone to Marcellus. They started in the 10 o’clock
train. Nobody but my selve and Sister Sara and Delia stayed home.
June 24, 1853 Very pleasant day. Rather windy this morning. Mr Mitchell house is improved since
he has built addition to it and now it looks very well.
June 25, 1853 Today being saturday all the family went to Bridgeport but sister and she had a
headache. Miss Bourrel [?] rode up with us and is going to stay over sunday.
June 27, 1853 Very unpleasant day. Rain rain rain. I don’t see as it will ever stop. In my
arithmetic I am over to [illegible].
July 4, 1853 I had 4 pct of firecrakers. Jimmy Bonnel spent the day with us and his sister Dianther. I spent a very happy day.
July 7, 1853 Very pleasant day. The sun is very hot. I expect to hear people struct by the sun it is
so hot. Miss Polly Thomer our next nabior. She gave me a shilling the other day.
July 12, 1853 Very hot day. The pears are most ripe. School begins on the 18th. We took a ride
this morning. Pappa is getting in his hay.
July 16, 1853 Very pleasant day. 2 or 3 showers in the afternoon. We rode to Bridgeport in the
morning. We left Sister at Cousin [name illegible] Bunnell’s. Cousin Thomas died this morning.
Monday school begins.
July 23, 1853 Very unpleasant and rainy day. I have been making a bow gun. [?]
July 27, 1853 Very pleasant day. We rode to Bridgeport this morning. Sister Sara to New Haven
with two other [ladies?] from New York. We have had some rain for the last two days.
July 28, 1853 Very pleasant day. Sister Sarah returned this morning.
July 29, 1853 Very pleasant day. We expect some company who have been staying at New Haven.
July 30, 1853 A fine day. Mother and myself went to Aunt Mary’s. Papa has gone to a fishing
excersion. I hope that he will have a pleasant time.
Aug 8, 1853 Fine day. Today Papa received a letter from Aunt Cornelia. She is in California.
Aug 9, 1853 Very pleasant day. Aunt Ann spent the day with us.
Aug 11, 1853 Very pleasant day. Aunt Cornelia. I bought a fishline.
Aug 12, 1853 Very pleasant day. This morning the thermometer was up to 80 and at 1 o’clock it
was up to 91. Last night it was the hottes night in this season. The mosquitoes are very bothersome
indeed.
Aug 15, 1853 Very pleasant day this morning the barometer was up to 88. I have been absent from
my Sunday School class but once this summer. I resite in a question book to Miss Burton. Uncle
Sherwood is building a large house in Pequonik. Aunt Ann broke up housekeeping in the spring
and boards at the Stanly house in Bridgeport. Sister Sarah and Catherine are taking French lesons of
Professor Edwards.
Aug 17, 1853 I was prevented from going to school this afternoon by the rain. it rained
tremendously this morning. We have had very severe rains this summer. We are afraid some
sickness will come after this. There is a few cases in the sothern part of the town. We have an
addition of ducks. Cousin Matilda came up yesterday.
Aug 19, 1853 A fine day only it is so hot. Tomorrow is the anaverssary of my parents marage. I
hope we will have a pleasant time. We are going to have it in the front room. Papapa and Mama took
tea with Mrs. Walter. Myself and Kitty attended the party at Mrs. Charles Booth’s.
Aug 20, 1853 A fine day only it is so hot. Aunt Mary gave me a pie. Which I think we will have it
for sunday. At half past 6 the celebration took place. We had cake, pineapple, almonds, peanuts and
peaches. My dear sister Delia has got a bad coal.
Aug 23, 1853 Very pleasant day only it is so hot. David Ogden has just arived from New Haven
and we expect him to spend some days with us. We expect to have some fun. His mother is staying
over to Grandmama’s.
Aug 27, 1853 Very pleasant day. David Ogden is staying with us yet. We have had some fun with
Jimmy Mitchell.
Aug 31, 1853 David Ogden and his mother returned to New Haven.
Sept 3, 1853 Uncle Holden and family came up and are staying with Grandmama’s. Cousin Eliza
stayed at our house.
Oct 3, 1853 Today is Monday I believe. It is a very windy day. Yesterday I stayed home from
school. Miss Burton my sunday school teacher gave me a book. For my good lessons and
punctual attendance. My sister Sarah returned from New York on Friday. I have neglected my
journal for a long time. Cousin Eliza has been staying here for 2 weeks. Sister Sarah has been
staying at Grandmama’s for a week.
Oct 4, 1853 Very pleasant day indeed. Early this morning it was very cold. Father and myself
picked at the grapes. Our peaches lasts us yet, many trees are not yet ripe. Vacation began
yesterday and will last for 3 weeks.
Oct 5, 1853 A fine day. All the family rode to Bridgeport this afternoon and mother bought me a
black cloth overcoat which cost $5.00. The streets in Bridgeport are very dusty and the wind high.
We expect Grandmama tomorrow. She has been staying at Uncle Holden’s for 3 or 4 weeks in G--.
And Uncle David has been staying most of the time with us.
Oct 6, 1853 Very pleasant day. For the last 4 days we have had an exceeding high wind.
Grandmama has arrived with Cousin Elizabeth. Cousin Elizabeth went to G--- to fit Mary her
sister off to school at Mount Holyoke. We have got peaches in abundance and today mother has
made some peach sweetmeats. We have dried a large quantity for pies for winter. Last week and
this we have had some pumpkin pies which are very fine.
Oct 7, 1853 Very pleasant day indeed. Mr. Tompkin arrived from Marcellus. He is the clergyman
who preaches in that place. We expect Aunt Sarah and Uncle Beach today or next week. I assisted
Mrs Tomlinson an old lady in walking in the street and afterwards payed her a visit.
Oct 8, 1853 Fine fall weather. I called on Mrs. Tomlinson again and stayed. We have no apples to
gather this fall for the worms in the spring destroyed them all. We gathered enough apples to make
1 pie. Aunt Ann, who has been boarding at the Stanly house all summer long, has gone to
housekeeping.
Oct 11, 1853 A very pleasant day indeed. We had a thunder shower last night. I slept through it.
Kitty and Delia made a house of some shingles which they got out of the shop. Mr. Tomkins went
down [?] this morning. Uncle Henry offered him $3.00 as a present.
Oct 12, 1853 Very pleasant day indeed. Only it is cold. But there are a great many black clouds
today. We had a great time [illegible] the horse today. I guess he felt quite well. I have not been to
see Mrs. Tomlinson today. Mr. Charles Tomlinson her son and his wife were there saturday. Mr.
Frank Armstrong presented us some shugar caine.
Oct 14, 1853 A fine day. We had our carridge today. The rooster continues around the points west.
Oct 18, 1853 Very pleasant day indeed. We have got fine fall weether. Since I wrote my journal
Uncle David has got marred and arrived with his bride last friday night. Aunt Sarah and Uncle
Beach and Cousin William T. Plant arrived from Marcellus. The two former went to Cheshire.
Oct 20, 1853 Very pleasant day indeed. Uncle Beach and Aunt Sarah returned from Cheshire
yesterday. We have had some shelves made for the dining room and for Kitty’s room and also a set
for my room.
Oct 24, 1853 Uncle Beach Aunt Sarah and Cousin William went in the 10 o’clock train to New
York. It rained slightly when they went the storm increased and towards evening it blew almost a
hurricane. School commenced today.
Oct 27, 1853 Very unpleasant day indeed. It is very damp. Mr. Robert Booth was married
yesterday. Papa has got his barn floor full of corn.
Oct 30, 1853 Rather a unpleasant day. Aunt Mary has had a headache all day. She was oblidge to
come out of meeting this morning and stay at home this afternoon.
Oct 31, 1853 Very pleasant day indeed. We have got in all our quinces and have made all our
quinces sweetmeat. Lalety Papa has got 3 sets of shelves 1 for Kitty’s room one for mine and a
set of shelves also for the dining room.
Nov 5, 1853 Very pleasant day indeed. I have been over to see Aunt Elizabeth. I am invited over to
Jimmy Mitchell this afternoon. The frost has remained on the ground.
Nov 21, 1853 Rather unpleasant day. I am going to New York today. I hope I will have a pleasant
time.
Nov 22-23, 1853 Rather a pleasant day. I got home last night. I had a very pleasant time. I believe
I must tell you my journey through New York. First I got out of the cars and took a omnibus and
rode down to Uncle Holden’s. After I had eat my dinner we walked down two streets and took a
omnibus and rode down to the chrystal Pallace. We stayed there till 6 o’clock. Then we took a
stage and rode down to Uncle Holden’s. Then we had our supper and went to bed. Towards
morning there was two fires. I will trace my journey on to the second day. After we had our
breakfast we went all over the Bible house and then we went into an [illegible] and then we took a
ride in Uncle Holden’s coach. All the rest of the afternoon it rained and so we stayed in the house.
Next morning we went down to the battery and then all over a ship named Edwin Forest. And then
we had our dinner and came home. We reached Stratford at half after 7 o’clock.
Nov 26, 1853 Very pleasant day indeed. I am invited over to Aunt Elizabeth’s to tea. I was invited
over to Grandmama’s yesterday to dinner. I had a very pleasant time of it. We went down to Henry
Booth’s yesterday.
[date uncertain] A fine day. It rained last night which I was very glad of because we had 10 pear
trees set out in the garden and spruce trees in the yard.
Dec 4, 1853 Rather a unpleasant day. I have been in most all the morning putting up my things in
the new room for mother to clean. The streets are very dry and the weather mild.
Dec 8, 1853 Very pleasant day indeed. We have very warm weather indeed. We have not had a
snow storm yet nor a severe rain. We expect Uncle John and his wife and his baby John Henry.
Dec 16, 1853 Uncle John and his wife and his baby John Henry have really came. We are very glad
to see them.
Dec 21, 1853 Very pleasant day indeed only it is so cold. Cordelia has got a very bad cold indeed
which I am very sorry for. We have got very warm weather for Dec. I fell down on the ice and cut a
gash on my right tempel and as soon as I came into the house mother took me down to Mr. Mcewen and then I had to have a plaster on it.
Dec 23, 1853 Very unpleasant day indeed. It has rained most all day. Uncle John and his wife and
their baby John Henry has been making us a visit. Uncle [name illegible] and his wife Aunt
Cornelia are in California yet.
30th Winter has really come. We have got very deep snow. Sister went to New York this morning.
We had no school yesterday on account of the snow. This evening the snow is falling fast.
Dec 31, 1853 It is much milder today than yesterday but quite cold. Father and myselve had to
make the paths although the snow quite soft. We took a sleigh ride this afternoon and bought me a cap worth 75 cents. I attended singing school in the town hall
taught by Mr. Rich of Bridgeport; he charges 13 cents a lesson and each schollar buys a book which
he charges 6 cents for. We have had two mariges in the family. Aunt Sarah’s and Uncle Beach’s
and Uncle David and Lizzie. We have all enjoyed very good health during the past year for which
we are very thankful. On the whole we have spent a very pleasant year and we hope the next will as
much so.
Farewell to the old year, 1853
1854 A new year called 1854.
Jan 1, 1854 Rather a mild and pleasant day considering the snow. Last night the snow fell very fast
indeed for it covered up all our paths; there has been 4 snow plows drawn by horses through the
streets to make paths for people going to church and we had a pretty large number in church on such
a snowy day. Cordelia stayed home from meeting. We miss Sister Sarah a great deal.
Jan 4, 1854 The snow has been quite deep. I had a sleigh ride today. The paths that was made are
very hard indeed and I have had a great many slides on them.
Jan 6, 1854 Mother was 38 years old yesterday and I gave her 38 slaps on her back. It is a very
pleasant day indeed only it is rather slipery. David Ogden spent 2 days over to Grandmama’s and
went home this morning in the 10 o’clock train.
Jan 7, 1854 A very pleasant and mild day. The snow has thawed today on the south side of the
house. Papa and I rode to Bridgeport today and it was rather poor sleighing. I saw 12 prisoners
going off to prison in a sleigh. I attended singing school this afternoon.
Jan 11, 1854 Very pleasant day indeed. I went to doctor’s this morning to have him look at my eye
and he put a piece of silk on it over some salve to stick it.
Jan 14, 1854 Very pleasant day indeed only it is windy. I went to skating this morning. I am going
to singing school this afternoon. Jimmy and I have had some fun this afternoon playing tag around
the house. I have read through the Life of Alexander, which was my Christmas present and now I
have commenced the Life of Hannibal.
Jan 20, 1854 Rather unpleasant day. Sleet and rain fell all day long. Kitty took this morning. We
have just heard of the San Francisco, a United States ship and it was a very sad disaster, 250 lives
was lost.
Jan 21, 1854 Rather a unpleasant day. I am going to singing school this afternoon.
Winter [written as heading on top of page]
Jan 28, 1854 Cold and clear. No snow. I have neglect my journal for the last week, but mean time
nothing has occured very important, it has been rather a stormy week, some snow and hail. Papa
has made a large quantity of soap for shaving and for washing hands. There is here and there a pond
in the street and it is perfect delight to slide on them when I am [illegible]
Feb 4, 1854 Clear but cold. Sister has returned from New York and was there 5 weeks. I expect a
pair of skates next week. Sister brought me Mansion of Happiness. Kitty and Cordelia each a ring.
Feb 8, 1854 A very chilly day indeed. Snow is almost up to your knees it is so high. The streets are
almost in a flood. I got wet feet this morning and so I stayed home this afternoon too pay for it. I
have been painting this afternoon and playing Mansion of Happiness. Mother received a certificate
from the tract society and she has been made a life member of the tract society.
Feb 18, 1854 A very cold day indeed. Cousin Eliza came up to Stratford yesterday afternoon with
Grandmama and when I went over to Grandmama’s after her carpet bag I found Aunt Elizabeth
there. Aunt Mary was sick today and so mother has been down there most all the time. She is very
[illegible]. Mother returned home this evening and brought the news that Aunt Mary had a fine son
weighing 7 pounds. I am very glad that Aunt Mary has got a son for I shall have somebody to play
with.
Feb 20, 1854 Cousin Eliza is still staying with us. Sister had the young ladies to spend the evening
with her. Captain Norris came in this evening and engaged our new house by Aunt Mary’s for a
year.
Feb 23, 1854 Cousin Eliza returned to New York today.
Feb 26, 1854 I commenced getting today. Fine day mud and snow.
Feb 28, 1854 Mother and myself went into Mr. Mitchell’s and to Aunt Mary’s this evening.
1854 Spring [written large on top of page]
March 1, 1854 A fine lovely spring day. The sewing society met here today. Yesterday the blue birds met here.
March 7, 1854 A fine day but mud deep. Cousin John W. Sterling, who has lately returned from
California, came up today with his 2 sisters. I am very busy preparing for the Examination. I have
begun Tominson’s New Practical Arithmetic today.
March 8, 1854 A warm fine day. Uncle Holden and Uncle Ogden and Aunt Kate and Aunt Ogden
came up tonight. We have drinks.
March 11, 1854 A fine day. Papa has got 2 men for sawing wood. He has engaged 7 rooster and 3
hens. We have been clearing out our hen house and making ready for our hens and a rooster next
week. He has engaged them of a man named Capt Brothwell, who lives down by the river and he
used to keep our boat in good order last summer. We are going to keep our 7 chicks and our hens
and roosters in the same house and are going to keep them there 4 or 5 days. Mr. Wheeler’s down
by our new house is almost done and is very large indeed, but not so large as Mr William Booth’s. A
girl by the name of Ann Lynch has lived with us for 2 years. Sister’s most trusted friend
now is Jane Wilmot and she is going to Bridgeport to board next Wednesday. Dr. McEwen
vaccinated on the 8th Mother, Kitty, Cordelia and myself.
March 15, 1854 A very lovely day indeed. Aunt Cordelia arrived this morning with her 2 little girls
Julia and Kitty. One was 7 and the other is 8, they are very small children indeed.
March 16, 1854 The morning pleasant and afternoon cloudy with a few drops of rain. Cousin
Rebecka came up this morning with her little baby in the cars and went home with Sherwood
Sterling. The greater part of the day the baby slept in Cordelia’s crib. Cousin Rebecka thinks that
she shall name him Cornelius.
March 17, 1854 This day is celebrated by the Irish as St. Patrick’s Day. Aunt Elizabeth had a little
party which Father and Mother attended.
March 18, 1854 A fine day and the wind tremendous high. This is Cordelia’s birthday and she is my
chief playmate yet she is 8 years old. She wears her hair backward from her forehead and confined
to an India rubber comb which mother bought her last August.
March 22, 1854 The sun arose this morning and after 1 or 2 o’clock this afternoon the clouds came
up from the East and West both and filled the sky, so at little before 7 o’clock snow came from the
heavens and is now filling the ground. Mother and I have had some conversation in the front room
and all the conversation was privet. Father and Mother and Cordelia went to Bridgeport this
morning and bought Kitty a pair of earrings [words scratched through] and I think that they are very
nice.
March 23, 1854 Another unpleasant day. Examination and Exhibition is very near for it is
tomorrow and I hate it and I am very sorry that I do to.
March 25, 1854 A very pleasant day indeed wind high. I have stayed in the house most all day. I
went in the shop this morning with Father. He is going to get a new boat of Capt Norris. There was
an examination yesterday and in the evening there was an exhibition.
March 27, 1854 A very pleasant day indeed. Today is the first day of vacation and it will last 3
weeks, that is to the 17th of April.
March 28, 1854 A very pleasant day but it is as cold as Greenland almost.
March 29, 1854 Rather a cold day but milder. All the family except Sister Sarah went to Bridgeport
this afternoon in our carrige. Sister Sarah received a worked handkerchief from mother. My sisters
Kitty and Cordelia and myselve received a present too and the name of Kitty’s is Cleopatra, of
Cordelia’s Charles the First and of mine, Xerxes the Great.
March 30, 1854 Rather cloudy this morning and it has rained nearly all the afternoon. I made a
little furnace this morning with two chimneys and then I put in some shavings and got a match and
set it a fire. I have not been out this afternoon only in the shop a few minutes. For the last fortnight
it has been very windy indeed.
March 31, 1854 Rather a unpleasant day, cloudy and rainy. The snow is almost gone. Our hens lay
eggs finely. Tomorrow is the 1st day of april or April Fool Day. Ann Lynch continues to reside here
yet. Papa made me a bow and arrow this morning. Papa and myself have been in the shop most all
the forenoon. Papa expects his boat next week. I hope it will suit him. Tomorrow I expect to
have a good time of April fooling persons.
April 1, 1854 Today is April fool day. I have been making Maria, Aunt Mary’s girl, a
little book and I hope that she will learn to write. I april fooled Maria, Aunt Mary’s girl,
12 times this afternoon but I could not april fool Aunt Mary for she is too spry. It has been sort of
raining all day long. Monday is election day. I expect to have a good time a eating peanuts Monday
afternoon. Father is a going to be moderator. Uncle David and Aunt Elizzepeh Judson
returned home before twilight this evening.
April 3, 1854 Today is election day. I went after [name illegible] later this morning. I am almost
through my Question Book at Sunday school.
April 10, 1854 A day sometimes like April Fool day. I feel sorry to skip over so many days. One
reason I have not wrote sooner is because I have been playing and working most every forenoon.
April 14, 1854 Rather a unpleasant day. At 1/2 past 8 o’clock this evening a snow storm began.
Today is fast day. I went to church this morning and to the prayer meeting this afternoon. Aunt
Cordelia came up this morning and spent the day with us.
April 16, 1854 Sunday A deep snow upon the ground many persons came to church in sleighs.
Very cold and unpleasant.
April 17, 1854 It is very cold and unpleasant.
April 22, 1854 Rather a unpleasant day in the morning sun up a little while this morning and then it
began to rain very hard and has done so all day.
April 27, 1854 It is a clouding up very much rain came in a fore noon and was very destructive in
New York there was a perfect tornado and a sinkships tearing roofs off of houses and rain turned on
sky all the evening. Thunder showers all day long one clap struck very near us.
April 29, 1854 Chilly and unpleasant a light thunderstorm last night.
Sunday Very unpleasant day. There has been a great freshet most every where. It has been a great
deal of damage done in Derby for it has taken away the bridge. A man was drowned this morning
and besides the current was so great that nobody has seen him yet. logs, furniture &c has floated
down the river a great deal of it has gone into the sound.
[Transcriber Note: No entry for Sterling’s 10th birthday on May 12th, 1854]
May 22, 1854 You must excuse me from not writing since last I saw you. The reason why I have
not written is partly because I forgot it and nothing has happened worth writing. This morning Papa
put his new boat into the water and has gone a chumming and has got very good luck.
May 23, 1854 I have been aquincted with some boys and girls a staying at Mr. Brooks our
Postmaster. Their last name is Horner and the boys names is William and Robert Horner and the girl
Annie Horner. Their mother is gone to Europe on a visit and Mr. Horner is in bosten where he
resides and are very nice people.
May 26, 1854 There has been no freshet as that rain in Derby prophesied. It is a very windy day
indeed I seen the eclispe at 9 oclock 19 min afternoon it began to grow dark 6 oclock 36 min
June 1, 1854 A very pleasant day indeed. There is a lecture tonight. and has got some company of
some [illegible]. Chas Mitchel has got some hens. Mrs Mitchel has just came in. We have got our
oil cloth painted today.
June 11, 1854 A very pleasant day indeed. The wind is very high indeed.
June 14, 1854 A very pleasant day indeed. I went after flags tonight. The sky is not very clear
tonight. I expect that we are going to have a very hot summer.
June 29, 1854 A pleasant day. This is almost the last day of school. I shall be delighted when
vacation comes. There is a balloon going up in Bridgeport on the 4th of July 1854 in Bridgeport. I
do not want to go over and see it.
June 30, 1854 Rather a unpleasant day. Rain this morning. I hope Fourth of July will be pleasant
for I want some fun and I expect to have a nice time rain or shine. Today is the last day of school.
Vacation will continue till the 17th of July for 2 weeks. Tomorrow I expect to go over to
Bridgeport. Miss Elizabeth Brown went away in cars this afternoon. I expect to have a very nice
time in vacation.
July 1, 1854 A very pleasant day indeed. I went over to Bridgeport this morning and took Jimmy
Mitchell with us. I bought some fire works and cannons.
July 3, 1854 Tomorrow is fourth of July. I am a going to fire fire crackers all day and fireworks in
the evening. Today is the first day of vacation of which I am very glad indeed. Papa went down a
fishing this morning. Uncle John and Uncle Henry Plant went a riding with our horse and carriage.
Jimmy Mitchell has a fire in their woodburner every Monday. We have 12 chickens now besides
four hens and a rooster. Saturday after tea mother and Kitty and myself walked up to Mrs. Weed
and Willie’s rabbit.
July 4, 1854 A very pleasant day indeed. I have got 5 packs of fire crackers. Me and Lester
Young’s have been firing cannons this morning. Lester Young’s is a going to fire his cannons eleven
times on the 4th of July. The cannons have been firing all night.
July 13, 1854 Very windy indeed which makes it very cool. The wind has been East most all day. I
am afraid that it is a going to rain and if it does it will be a great disappointment to me for I do want
to go a berrying tomorrow morning at 8 oclock with Miss Fanny Brown, Miss Eliza [name illegible]
& Miss [name illegible] & Jimmy Mitchell.
July 20, 1854 A very pleasant day indeed. Aunt Mary, U. Henry & John Plant went to Marcellus
day before yesterday.
July 21, 1854 Very pleasant day. The thermometer stood at 98 degrees in the shade. All my leisure
time during the past has been spent in making mosquitoes nets for our windows. The mosquitoes
for the last few days have almost devoured us. Our cow had a calve today.
July 22, 1854 It continues very hot and dry. We were threatened with a thundershower tonight.
Father has gone a fishing this afternoon. The cholera is in New York and most of our large citties.
July 25, 1854 We have had several hard thundershower. Mrs Elijah Ufford died last night. This is
the anniversary of Father’s [sick?] day.
July 26, 1854 Warm and pleasant day. Aunt Ann and Cousin Holden came up today and made us a
visit. Uncle Henry returned from Marcellus.
July 29, 1854 Jimmy Burrell came up yesterday to spend today.
Aug 10, 1854 My sister Sarah went to New Haven this morning at 10 oclock. Today is very
pleasant but very cold, that is compared with the warm weather we have had.
Aug 12, 1854 The air hot and close -- one week ago today Pa took James Mitchel, Henry Booth,
Kitty, Cordelia and myself down in the sound in his boat. We saw porpoises ten feet long and many
other wonderful things. We had a delightful sail. Yesterday Kittie stuck a needle in her foot. It is
very much swollen, she can’t wear a shoe.
Aug 15, 1854 The mornings and evenings are cool & pleasant, we need rain very much indeed, the
earth is very dry. Kittie is quite sick. Mother has put mustard plasters on her feet. Mr. Robert
Wetmore returned from New Haven with Sister Sarah yesterday. He has spent last evening
and today with her. I attend Mr. Weed’s lectures at the conference room this summer. Cordelia goes
sometimes.
Aug 22, 1854 A very pleasant day. There has been a baby born into this world between 5 and 7
oclock of whom Aunt Elizabeth is the mother and Uncle David the father. We celebrated the 20th
today because Kitty has been very sick.
Aug 26, 1854 We have had a shower this afternoon which scarcely wet the earth. Me and Father
went after bread made out of rye in the midst of shower. it done a little good but not much.
Aug 30, 1854 Fine, cool, pleasant day. Mother and Miss Anna Harves visited the school
this afternoon.
Sept 1, 1854 Mr. Trewick Sedgwick dismissed the school at 3 oclock this afternoon because he had
visitors a hour
Sept 7, 1854 There haas been a general training which consisted about one thousand men in
Bridgeport for the last 3 days. Yesterday was one of the hottest days in summer and Papa gave me
two arrows and a quarter of a dollar if I would stay home because it was so hot, which I was very
glad of. We had a thunder shower last evening.
Sept 17, 1854 A very pleasant and cool day. Rode to Bridgeport this morning and I bought me a
cannon which cost 50 cents. I attended singing school this afternoon.
Sept 22, 1854 During the past week we have had fine cool weather. This evening all the family
except mother went to Mrs. Booth’s to a children’s party. We had a very pleasant time. They acted
charades.
Sept 23, 1854 Very pleasant day indeed. Papa and myself shook all the apples off of the tree which
is 2 bushels.
Sept 30, 1854 A very pleasant day, wind high, I’m temded to go a sailing but the wind so high and
the wind North.
Oct 3, 1854 Rather a rainy day. I expected to go a sailing today, but so rainy I concluded to stay at
home. Me and Father have been fixing the stable floor. I ammused myself this morning by making
jackstraws. Last evening Mother and myself attended a Fernal[?] Tract meeting up to the house of
Mr Weeds
Oct 6, 1854 A very pleasant day indeed. Aunt Cornelia and her little girls Kitty and Julia came up
to spend the day with me having brought them over in the carriage at 10 oclock, they went home at 5 oclock
Oct 12, 1854 The steam ship artic has not been heard of this long time. The artic sunk. There
were 175 of the crew, there were about 200 and so on board.
21st Fine beautifull weather. I attend a sundy school singing school. The girls of the sundy school
have a sewing society every other saturday, today they meet at our house.
Oct 23, 1854 A very pleasant day. Our vacation is ended and school is begun.
Nov 1, 1854 Unpleasant day. We have got plenty of rain. I wish it would stop. I began Latin this
quarter and I am quite a good ways in it - now am very glad I begun it. Father went Wednesday to
New York. This morning he got home.
Nov 11, 1854 Uncle Henry’s baby was baptized last Friday. His name is Henry Tomlinson Plant.
Nov 18, 1854 A fine day, mild and pleasant for the season. The painters have finished our house
blinds and fences now our house looks very nice. Aunt anna and Annett came up this morning and
spent the day with us. I rode horseback this morning, 3 quarters of a hour on Mr. Booth’s little
horse.
Nov 19, 1854 A clear cold day. In the evening we attended the Sundy School Concert. The room
was so crowded they had to go after benches to seat the people.
Nov 26, 1854 Cordelia and myself went to Jimmy Mitchell to tea. I attended singing school this
afternoon and after that I went to court [?] for a few minutes.
Nov 27, 1854 A lovely day. Mother went to Bridgeport this afternoon and bought me a cap $1.25
Nov 28, 1854 A fine day. This evening I carried Mr. Weed a great big turkey as a Thanksgiving
present.
Nov 29, 1854 A half snow storm this morning that is snowed and then melted so that was a great
disappointment.
Nov 30, 1854 First cold we have had this season, clear but cold. Today is Thanksgiving. We all
went to church this morning. Before meeting Sister Sarah and myself went to the depot after Aunt
Ann, Cousin Annet, Cousin Wellen Moore, they to meeting with us and spent the day with us. Mr.
Weed preached about thankfulness.
Dec 1, 1854 The first day of winter, very cold indeed. There is no school today. Mr Sedgwick, Mrs
Caroline and Miss Curtis[?] out of town.
Dec 3, 1854 A unpleasant day. Snowed almost all day, began in the morning and snowed till the
next day. At night the snow was a foot deep. We went to church all day and had a very good
sermon.
Dec 4, 1854 Snow 2 feet deep, some good slaying. I went to hire an fish man who lives down to
the railroad to dig paths.
Dec 5, 1854 School in the morning, but I did not go, in the afternoon I went up as far as the
schoolhouse and I found that the door was locked and I came home.
Dec 6, 1854 Extreme cold weather. Sister went to New York with Mr R.[obert] Wetmore.
Dec 7, 1854 This has been an extremely cold week.
Dec 14, 1854 This week has been as cold as the last. I have used my skates some, but not much on
account of the cold.
Dec 25, 1854 CHRISTMAS DAY Santa Claus broght us a great many Christmas presents.
Mother’s were a worked mat from Kitty and a pair of slippers from Cousin Wellen Moore. Father’s
were Kitty’s first drawing book. Sister a gold thimble and ring, both from mother. Kitty’s present to
sister and one from Aunt Cornelia. Delia’s present was a game from mother and 3 books l from
Mother 1 from sister and 1 from Cousin Annette Moore. Ann, our servant girl, a dress and pair of
gloves, both from Mother. Mine was a book named Romulus from Mother, a little pinball from
Delia, a very hansome portfolio from Mother & dissected map from sister, a very handsome
washrag crocheted. The old year is brought to a close in 4 days.
Good Bye for this Year 1854
Jan 1, 1855 Tolerable warm weather. How quickly time passes away! During the month of
December it was very cold. The snow that fell in the first of the month is on the ground now.
Jan 5, 1855 This is Mother’s birthday. I gave her 39 kisses when I went to bed she is 39 years old.
Jan 8, 1855 This is the anniversary of the battle of New Orleans, warm and mudy.
Jan 11, 1855 A cold day. I went a skating after school. P.M. I went to a place called Fanny Curtis’s
which is two lots across from Captain Benjamin on the Bridgeport road. Just before I got home I
found that Aunt Sarah and Uncle Beach had got home to our house to make us a visit.
Jan 14, 1855 A rainy day. Father and Mother went to Grandmama’s to tea. I went over to Jimmy
Mitchell’s to tea. Aunt Sarah and Uncle Beach went to Grandmamas’ to tea also.
Jan 15, 1855 Dr. Hewit preached for us today, a very fine sermon. One of his subjects was the
woman of Samaria.
Jan 19, 1855 Uncle Beach and Aunt Sarah went to the railroad to return home to Marcellus.
Jan 22, 1855 Rained very hard last night and this morning cleared off, this noon cold and blowy.
Jan 27, 1855 A very cold, awful windy, and the thermometer below freezing a great deal. I spent
this morning in the shop making a sled which I completed with satisfaction this afternoon. Kitty
and Cordelia went to sewing society this afternoon.
Feb 3, 1855 A very pleasant day, which is rather cold or windy. I went a skating this morning. I
expect to go this afternoon and go to Singing School. Mother is very well today.
Feb 10, 1855 A very windy[crossed through] Snow. The girls sewing society met at Miss Booth’s
Feb 13, 1855 The weather quite mild but walking horrible. Mother and myself attended meeting
this evening.
Feb 15, 1855 Weather quite mild and walking much worse. Mother and myself attended the
Thursday night lecture and the subject was Abraham.
Feb 18, 1855 Not pleasant. Sister went to New York yesterday morning.
Feb 21, 1855 We went to meeting this evening. The subject was Abraham continued. I fell down
going to meeting and got myself all dirty and when I came home I fell down again and tore my
pants.
Feb 24, 1855 A awful cold day windy. Aunt Ann More came up this morning went home 1/4 to 5.
Feb 27, 1855 A fine day. We went to meeting tonight and a prayer meeting in afternoon.
Feb 28, 1855 I went to skating tonight, got in the mire up to my knees.
March 1, 1855 We all went to Bridgeport this afternoon except Kitty and myself.
March 2, 1855 Mother got a sick headache.
March 3, 1855 I expect to go a skating. Singing school this afternoon.
March 10, 1855 A pleasant day, very windy indeed. The March wind has really come at last. It is
awful windy. Sewing society met to Mr. Booth’s this afternoon. Jane Plumb was here this
afternoon. Peter, her nephew, is a carving wood.
March 13, 1855 A rainy day so much so that we had no prayer meeting.
March 14, 1855 A rainy day or very cloudy.
March 15, 1855 Another unpleasant day has come but has cleared off in time for Thursday night
lecture.
March 16, 1855 I stayed home from school all day because I had a headache and a cold in my head.
March 17, 1855 A very unpleasant day indeed so that me and Cordelia stayed in the house and drew
pictures. Kitty wrote the genealogy of the Tomlinson family most of which was obtained from Miss
Polly Tomlinson and Mrs. Whetmore [name uncertain].
March 18, 1855 A pleasant day, horrid walking. I wore my new breeches to church. Examination
is most here, I think I shall not miss
March 19, 1855 A lovely day. We expect Sister home tonight. Papa went to Bridgeport and bought
some glasses for the old revelutionary war pictures.
March 20, 1855 Cloudy. Papa went to Bridgeport and bought a slate frame for which he gave a
dollar. She has drawn the picture under Miss Curtis’s care and it is to be exhibited on examination
day (I hope will not fail) Mother attended the prayer meeting. Last Sunday was Cordelia’s birthday,
she was 9 years old. She has not been to school this winter, but is going in the summer.
March 21, 1855 A pleasant day. Sister came home this evening. She brought each of us a present
which was a gold pencil. Mine was the prettiest. Mrs Robert Whetmore came up here with her and
went home in the evening train.
March 22, 1855 Today is examination day. All the exercises went off well. I passed a very good
examination. It is very lucky that all my classes has resited today for then I can play tomorrow
while the rest are resiting. Mother went in the morning and Father all day.
March 23, 1855 A very pleasant day. Examination is today. Mother attended in the morning and
Father all day. Tonight is the exhibition. We have printed tickets so that they cannot forge them.
Mr. Weed attended this afternoon and the scholars thought they did themselves credit. Mr. Weed
this evening also. I spoke a piece named “The Fate of the Indians” and also spoke a dialog named
“From Paul Perry.”
March 24, 1855 Singing school and sewing society too. Cordelia and myself was sick but we
attended singing school.
March 26, 1855 A pleasant day. Martha Flagg came to see Cordelia. Papa made me a bow and
arrow. I kept shooting it all of the afternoon. Cordelia and myself played in the afternoon outdoors
till Martha Flagg came and then we played in the house with her.
March 31, 1855 A fine day. Kate and Cordelia went to tea and I went after Cordelia and myself
went home about a quarter to 8 oclock and then sister came and spent all the evening, our visit was
at Mrs. Russell
April 1, 1855 Today is Solemn Sunday. Mr. Weed preached a home missionary sermon. In the
evening, the church was opened and a converted Catholic preached.
April 2, 1855 Very cold and exceeding high wind in consequence the boys had not a game of ball.
Papa was moderator. The Democratic candidate was elected in this place.
April 3, 1855 HIgh wind today. Uncle David went to New York and I assisted Uncle Henry in
keeping store.
April 4, 1855 Sarah [illegible] Cordelia and myself went to Aunt Mary’s to tea and come home
about dark.
April 6, 1855 Fast day, warm and pleasant. Attended church in the morning and went to walk in the
afternoon. Aunt [illegible] is quite sick and she is threatened with the lung fever.
April 13, 1855 A splendid day. [illegible] had a few young friends to see her in the afternoon. I had
a headache in the evening.
April 15, 1855 Sister and myself stayed home from church all day both us were sick yesterday and
we were sick today, so we stayed home.
April 16, 1855 A pleasant day. Sister and myself are very sick with the flu and suffer intense
pain.
April 21, 1855 Fine lovely day. I have been sick all the past week but I am slowly recovering now.
The Children’s sewing society met here this afternoon.
April 30, 1855 I commenced a going to school this morning. I am better.
May 4, 1855 Cordelia was taken sick today.
May 8, 1855 Cordelia has been sick since Friday or the 4th. I have got well of my cold but I took
another one today.
May 11, 1855 Today is the last day that I am 10 years old and I am eleven tomorrow.
May 12, 1855 Today is my birthday. Mother gave me a present of “Cyrus the Great.” I was very
much pleased with my present. It is pleasant today.
May 24, 1855 A beautiful day but exceeding hot. It lingered all the evening but no thunder. I took
off my waist coat this noon. I have been a very naughty boy and trouble Mother very much.
May 29, 1855 A very pleasant day. The annual meeting of the Association a a consortium [?] which
decided wether Rev. Wm B. Weed of Stratford, Connecticut will go to Norwalk. They were three
hours debating when they gave their decision to go.
May 30, 1855 This afternoon we went to Bridgeport and visited Aunt Cornelia. [illegible]
May 31st We went to Pequonnock [?] this afternoon. Got home at 8:00
June 1, 1855 Papa bought a piece of land of Mr. Batterson down by the railroad. I am in the 1st
class in grammer and Kit is the best scholar in the class so when they choose sides Kit is always
chosen on the side that the 1st choice is.
June 6, 1855 Papa expects to put his boat in the afternoon. I am coming out at three oclock.
Evening: I came home at three oclock but Papa did not put his boat in the river, as I expected he
would.
June 7, 1855 A very pleasant day indeed. Papa and myself took the boat down to the river and
launched it there. We took it down on the little wheels which he bought of Capt Nichols.
June 8, 1855 Mother walked with us down to the Ship Yard. She and Cordelia made some calls in
[illegible]. I bought a quart of clams of old Capt Wheeler.
June 9, 1855 Saturday. Papa took Kate, Cordelia and myself over to Wheeler’s mill with some
corn. In the afternoon, I wrote a composition on Fourth of July.
June 10, 1855 Cool and a very high wind. We have had a great deal of rain this season which
makes Stratford look very beautiful. Mr. Hamilton preached the gospel to us, a very fine minister. I
attended the children’s concert in the church.
June 16, 1855 Papa went down to the river today. For the first time we got some clams and some
[illegible]. The first day in the year that we have not a fire. We had Cousin Julia and Abbie Ogden
and Miss Linsley this afternoon. They took tea with us.
June 17, 1855 Mild and pleasant. A minister from Hampden near New Haven. Went to church in
the conference room with my mother.
June 20, 1855 Mr. Hubbell and Fairchild have brought us some boards and shingles for we are
going to have a new roof and a Corn Garret. They have began at the roof today. They will finish
June 23, 1855 The roof and corn garret was finished today and the barn looks very nice. We have
got two windows in the barn. We went this morning to Bridgeport to get the sashes. We met Cousin
Helen and Aunt Anna in the Omnibus and went to Bridgeport and back again and caught them up
and passed them. Then Cousin Helen spent the day with us. Aunt Ann went back. Aunt Cornelia has
a daughter.
June 24, 1855 Quite a rainy day. Dr. Hewit preached for us. Aunt Cornelia’s baby died today.
June 29, 1855 Very hot day indeed. It seems something like summer now. We have plenty of
cherries now and I believe every one else has too.
July 1, 1855 A very pleasant day. Mr. Noah Porter preached for us today. The Rev. Mr. [name
illegible], a missionary which has preached for the last 5 years in Kansas and Missouri delivered a
lecture in the church.
July 3, 1855 Father, Jimmy and myself went to Bridgeport this morning. We went for firecrackers
of which we got a box and I took half and he the other half of the box. A box consists of 40 packs.
Papa went over to get the two Bunnell girls. Aunt Cornelia is not well yet.
July 4, 1855 Not a very pleasant day, sweltering, sprinkled in the morning. I got up early. I had 20
packs, used 4 of them, sold 6 packs, got 9 left [?]. I went to see the fire works in the evening. Mr.
Orly [?] had a celebration down to Miss Linley’s on the grove. I went there at 9 am and got home 8
pm. They had a table set. We went to the table and eat food.
July 5, 1855 Katy and Julia Bunnell went home today. We were all so tired today that we have not
done much work.
July 7, 1855 Papa has had his hay cut these two days but the rain has pevented it from drying. We
should go to Locust Hill on Sunday but we cant go because it has not been dryed.
July 9, 1855 Hugh Quin made hay in the lots by the Depot. I helped him in the morning.
July 10, 1855 Hugh Quin and Mr Curtiss (whom the people call DP Knocker) got our hay in the
barn today. We expect to go to Locust Hill tomorrow. I hope we shall have a nice time, don’t you
July 11, 1855 We started this morning at half past 7 oclock for Locust Hill, in the cars between
Stratford and New York. We met a very pleasant man Papa and mother know him. Mr. Lewis was
his name. When we arrived in New York, we took the South Ferry omnibus and went to the Ferry
boat and crossed the Ferry.
July 12, 1855 I spent the day with Uncle Holden. I fell off his horse. I hurt myself badly.
July 13, 1855 I spent the night with Uncle Holden. I went home this morning in the boat. The
name of the boat was the Cataline, bound to Bridgeport. We had a very pleasant sail indeed. From
Bridgeport we came up in the Omnibus. Father, Mother and in fact all of us, thought that it was the
most tedious part of our journey.
July 19, 1855 Very pleasant day, best about 7 oclock
July 29, 1855 A very pleasant day. The wind is very high. Papa, sister Kit, Cordelia and myself
went a sailing. We had a very pleasant time.
Aug 1, 1855 Uncle Henry got home this morning. There was a dreadful thunder shower and a
succession of _____
Aug 11, 1855 Saturday. Pleasant day. We got our oats in today. Our corn garret has come in use.
Aug 13, 1855 A elegant. We had Mr. Thatcher for Minister yesterday, he was from Meriden, Conn.
He is a splendid minister. We had a children’s concert last evening. It went off splendidly. Uncle
Henry lead us in singing. Mr. Thatcher is as thick through him as he is broad. He staid at Mr.
Strong’s. Cousin William left us this morning. He has been here 7 weeks. He left us all very
hansome presents.
Aug 18, 1855 Very pleasant day. Father went sailing today.
Aug 21, 1855 Cousin Diantra Bunnell came from Bridgeport to spend a few days with sister.
Aug 22, 1855 Cousin Susan Sterling came to see us.
Aug 23, 1855 David Ogden arrived from New Haven.
Aug 24, 1855 Cousin Dianthan and Susan went home today in the cars and Cousin Eliza Holden
arrived today to spend a month with us.
Sept 4, 1855 Cousin Eliza and sister went today to New Haven.
Sept 6, 1855 Uncle Holden with his family arrived today. Sister and Cousin Eliza arrived from
New Haven and while they were walking with Cousin John Benjamin he had a fit.
Sept 7, 1855 Mother had quite a party, the family friends and the old ladies.
Sept 8, 1855 Mother had another party today comprising the younger people. Today David Ogden
returned home. Since he has been here we have played chess. Both he and we have had a very
pleasant visit.
Sept 9, 1855 I played with Dannie Holden all day
Sept 10, 1855 Very hot day. Mr. Wilhard preached for us
Sept 11, 1855 Excessively hot
Sept 14, 1855 Uncle Holden’s family returned to New York and Aunt Elizabeth with them taking
Hannah, their girl.
Sept 16, 1855 Cousin Eliza returned home after having a very pleasant visit
Sept 22, 1855 Uncle Ogden and Aunt Amanda arrived here from New York or at Grandma’s
Sept 23, 1855 Uncle Ogden preached here today (very good sermon)
Sept 27, 1855 The vessel or rather the schooner was launched here today. There was a large
number there. She went off very nicely. Mr. [name illegible] died today. His body was brought to
Bridgeport.
Sept 29, 1855 We went over to Bridgeport and bought a hat for myself. It was a very nice one.
Sept 30, 1855 Mr. Foote preached for us.
Oct 6, 1855 We have been at work with rye for the last 2 days. We have got at last it hoisted up in
corn garret.
Oct 17, 1855 I have enjoyed myself very much this vacation although it is not past. We cleaned
house or rather cleaned three rooms namely the bedroom, sister’s bedroom and the hall carpet
upstairs. I worked very hard till 12 oclock.
Oct 18, 1855 Very pleasant day indeed. We have had real nice weather for the last week. A week
ago we went to New Haven in the morning in the 10 oclock and got home at 7 oclock
Oct 26, 1855 I have enjoyed myself very much this vacation. We all went to Bridgeport. Kit had
three teeth filled with gold. Cordelia and I went a shopping alone for the first time. Cousin Diantha
was married Wednesday there.
November 26, 1855 Very fine weather now. We have no settled minister yet. We have a new one
every Sunday. Never since my recollection have we had so many apples in our cellar before.
Saturday Mother went to Bridgeport and bought Cordelia a doll 2 1/2 feet long. Cordelia had 1
tooth filled. I had two. We are going to have services on thanksgiving in our church. Cousin
Elizabeth is going to stay at Thanksgiving with us.
Nov 29, 1855 Very windy but very fine weather. Mr. Ogden preached for us today. We had a very
long sermon. I took some dinner to Hugh Quin the man who works for us, his wife is very sick.
But when I came back I found the turkey waiting for me about to be carved on the table. In the
afternoon David Ogden came over and spent the afternoon and the whole of the evening. We had no
school the remainder of the week.
Dec 5, 1855 Sister went to New York with Cousin Elizabeth. She spent 5 weeks very pleasantly
with us. She was on the return home. Sewing Society was here and the Temperance Convention
was held in Stratford.
Dec 8, 1855 Sister returned from New York. Cousin Elizabeth sent each of us an interesting book.
Dec 13, 1855 The weather has been fine and beautiful until this day. The snow commenced falling
last night and is now about 1 ft deep.
Dec 14, 1855 Clear, cold and fine slaying.
Dec 15, 1855 Warm, the snow melting fast.
Dec 16, 1855 But alas for the snow it has vanished all away! Alas! Another rainy Sunday. Dr.
McEwen from New Haven preached for us.
Dec 22, 1855 Very rainy day. I have amused myself today with making Christmas presents. [name
illegible] is dead, she died yesterday.
Dec 24, 1855 Uncle Holden and his family came from New York this evening.
Dec 25, 1855 An awful day especially for Christmas day. Grandmother had quite a family for Papa
and Mama and Cousin Eliza went over there to dine but Danny stayed. Hugh Quin the man who
worked for us, was killed on the railroad. We all felt very sorry for him.
1856
Jan 5, 1856 Nothing worth putting down has happened since I last wrote, only I have been sick for
2 days and this is my 3rd and perhaps tomorrow will be my 4th. We have had awful snow storms,
snow is a foot deep and night before last it froze so hard that you might walk on the snow and it is
so slippery that you cannot stand up without great carefulness. It continues so still. The snow has
commenced again with a very high wind and very fine. Cordelia and I made molasses candy. There
has been no singing school on account of the storm. There has not been a pleasant Saturday for the
last three months. I have been kept in for the last two days and this except for a half an hour.
Jan 9, 1856 Very cold day. It is becoming colder every day.
Jan 11, 1856 It has been intense cold weather for the last two day. Cordelia and myself have been
sliding for an hour after the school. Yesterday Mr. Fredrick Beasley was married to Miss Edmund,
both of this town, by the Rev Mr. Mitchell. Our school term is ended. The boys spoke. School is
going to commence on Monday the 13th of this month. Last week it snowed so high that the men
said that it never was so deep since 14 or 15 years ago.
Jan 12, 1856 It is rather cold.
Jan 19, 1856 It is veery fine sliding down hill at this time. There is a singing school today. I have
been sliding down hill with sister Cordelia and [illegible]. I steered them down.
Jan 25, 1856 Very cold indeed.
Jan 26, 1856 Very fine day except pretty cold. Still the people say they like to froze in bed last
night, but I did not.
Feb 8, 1856 It is kind a snowing now a little. Kitty is 14 years of age and she has just finished Livy
and has read a great many other books. This is the last one. She is going to read. We have a great
many apples and I carry a great many baskets for presents away. The exceeding cold weather
continues.
Feb 15, 1856 It has commenced snowing. Sister is still in New York. I have just learnt the dog to
carry Cordelia.
Feb 22, 1856 Kitty and Father went to Bridgeport and as Kitty was getting out of the slay, she
tumbled right flat down. The only way we account for it is that she jumped on one side of her foot
and sprained it very seriously.
Feb 23, 1856 I have take up my turn now for I got a very [word missing] cold. Cordelia was taken
sick on Thursday with a very severe cold.
Feb 24, 1856 None of us went to church today but Father, for Mother had to take care of us.
Feb 28, 1856 Mother is taking her turn now. She is very sick indeed now.
Feb 29, 1856 Father is taking his turn to be sick now.
March 2, 1856 One seat was vacant in church today. It is the second time it has been vacant since
Father was married to Mother. Our girl is very sick now. Our physician is Dr. [name illegible]
March 6, 1856 Sister came home today. She has been absent five weeks.
March 9, 1856 Mr. Leavitt preached today.
March 17, 1856 Cordelia and I went to school today. Kitty walked to Mrs. Sedgwick’s to take her
drawing lesson. She has been confined to the house for 3 weeks with a sprained ankle.
March 18, 1856 Today Cordelia is 10 years old.
March 19, 1856 It has snowed constantly all day. Mary [name illegible], sister and myself took tea
with Aunt Judson.
March 20, 1856 Warm and pleasant. The snow is melting very fast. Papa and Mama went to
Bridgeport. This is the first time wheels have been used since January. Mother bought a picture
frame for Kitty’s “Voyage of Life”
March 21, 1856 Today is fast day. We went to the prayer meeting. Mr. Mitchell conducted the
services very well indeed. We have smelt a “skunk” around our house very strongly so much so that
the whole house is scented. Cordelia and myself cleaned the shop nearly out and we have left the
rest for tomorrow morning.
March 22, 1856 Cordelia and myself finished cleaning the shop this morning. We worked through
the morning past dinner time.
March 27, 1856 Today has been examination day. None of my classes haas recited today. But
tomorrow all my classes recite. Tonight I am going to speak a piece tonight. Tomorrow is
examination too.
March 28, 1856 As I have said that yesterday was examination, so is it today. Papa says I recited
my lessons very well indeed. Everybody thinks or raataher says that the examination was the best
they ever attended.
March 31, 1856 Vacation has really come at last
April 1, 1856 Today is April fool day. There is much fun in fooling. Cordelia went to Bridgeport
this afternoon to stay 1 night at Aunt Cornelias.
April 2, 1856 Papa took myself over to Bridgeport and brought Cordelia home. She has had a very
pleasant time.
April 4, 1856 Having arrived home safe and sound, I am about like everything, carrying Papa and
myself in the wagon and our old house drawing us went in the mud 1 foot and 1/2 I have had a
beautiful visit in Bridgeport.
April 10, 1856 Nothing particularly has happened since the 4th. We have had beautiful weather this
week. Last night Jimmy Mitchell and myself attended a lecture performed by slight of hand. Papa,
Cordelia and myself rode to the mill. Cordelia and myself rambled about on the rocks and got moss
for Kitty’s basket.
April 11, 1856 I was very much pleased with the performance of slight of hand.
April 14, 1856 I have commended painting this morning and expect to get thrugh by 10 oclock
April 17, 1856 Mr John Beardsley has come this morning to work for us. The business being
joining. We have fixed two cupboards by putting shelves in them and he is making a cupboard or
rather sweetmeat cupboard for mother in the north chamber cupboard.
April 19, 1856 I have painted every morning this week. I have earned $2.00 this vacation, the
vacation being 3 weeks.
April 30, 1856 We have had very fine weather for the last week.
May 1, 1856 Today is the first unpleasant day we have had for a long time. I have been very sick
for nearly a week, we had to call our doctor [name illegible] and he thought I might have an
inflammation of the brain.
May 2, 1856 The rain is falling in torrents and has rained very hard last night, yes!, very hard.
May 9, 1856 Yesterday was a veery bad day. It rained so and today is not much better. Kitty is 15
years old today and she is a very tall young lady.
May 12, 1856 Today is my birthday. I am 12 years old today.
May 16, 1856 Mr. Akin preached for us today.
May 24, 1856 Today is the first warm day we have had for a great while.
May 25, 1856 Mr willard preached for us today.
May 28, 1856 Today it is very unpleasant indeed. Mr. [name illegible] painted the hall today.
May 31, 1856 The sewing society met here this afternoon. It meets every week at different times.
June 1, 1856 Mr. McLain preached for us today. The people seemed to like him very much. We
among the members.
June 3, 1856 I made a boat about 18 inches long the way the carpenters make it which is very hard.
June 5, 1856 Miss [name illegible] and Julia Ogden arrived from New Haven.
June 7, 1856 Grandmama, Abby and Julia Ogden came over here to dinner today, we had a nice
time. Mr. David Lewis, Old Mill, came here this morning.
June 8, 1856 Mr. Leavitt preached today.
June 10, 1856 Mr. Sedgwick took us or all the scholars who wanted to go, a sailing. I did not go.
Lemor Curtis’s child is not expected to live.
June 14, 1856 Mr. Lemor Curtis’s child has died today. They all feel very sorry.
June 12 Mother went to Marcellus with Sister Sarah. Pa rode them as far as Bridgeport and put
them in a boat for New York. They will come back in about a week.
June 19, 1856 Mother and Sister Sarah returned from their visit to Marcellus. They and we home
enjoyed a very pleasant time. Uncle William sent us some maple sugar and gave Mother $1 to buy
more with.
July ?, 1856 Nothing has happened since the last day I wrote except we have had very cold weather
indeed.
July 7, 1856 Vacation commences today.
July 8, 1856 I went over to help Uncle Henry and sold 20 cents worth of goods.
July 9, 1856 I did the same today as yesterday by selling goods to the amount of 2.3 and 3/4. I am a
great help to Uncle Henry.
July 10, 1856 We did the same thing as the preceeding days by selling goods to the amount of 6
amd 2 3/4 cents.
July 11-12, 1856 We sell goods every day increasing by .5
July 13, 1856 Mr. McLain preached for us today. He is surely an elegant preacher indeed. We had
a Sunday School concert tonight and Mr. McLain addressed us beautifully. Father attended this and
the one before with much interest. We think of settling this man, being much superior to any we
have heard.
July 14, 1856 Today is very pleasant indeed. I picked 1 quart and 1/2 of raspberrys this morning,
getting 4 per qt.
July 6, 1856 [out of sequence] Today is Sunday, but nevertheless it is the first day of “vacation.”
July 14, 1856 (cont’d) I have been enjoying myself very much indeed, for I have been helping
Uncle Henry in the store.
July 21, 1856 There is a meeting called for the consideration of choosing whether to give Mr.
McLain a call. The call was unanimous, all but 1.
July 24, 1856 I have been helping Uncle Henry as usual today.
July 28, 1856 Today is Monday and I expected to go to school, but Mr. Sedgwick thought it was too
hot to begin school and so we are a going to have 1 week longer vacation. The corn is drying up on
account of want of rain.
July 31, 1856 We had some thunder showers very heavy indeed last night and this morning.
Mr. Sedgwick has not been very well during the vacation and so he has let us have 1 week more
vacation.
Sept 1, 1856 Very cold indeed.
Sept 3, 1856 I have made a harness for my dog and I have got a 2-wheeled gig for him which he
carries with Cordelia on it.
Sept 6, 1856 Very chilly indeed
Oct ?, 1856 Oh! Splendid day! I am getting along beautifully that I assist Mr. Sedgwick every day.
I like to do it very much.
Oct 7, 1856 Splendid day! There is a fair today which continues 3 days over to New Haven. Very
pleasant weather indeed. Oh! What beautiful weather.
Oct 9, 1856 We went over to the fair at New Haven. It surely was a splendid spectacle to behold.
We went to New Haven in an excursion train. There were 169 people went from Stratford. All of us
became scared for all of us went - but Sister Sarah, who was in Mount Verson visiting. When we
got about 8 miles from New Haven the car broke down. I believe it was the one in front of us. We
were in the last train. We had to put a red flag up to keep the 10 oclock from running into us. You
can imagine what a pickle we were in. Miss Susan Walker was in the cars and she said to one of the
passengers that they were only waiting to have the 10 oclock train give us a little push for 2 engines
were not enough to drag us along. When we got to New Haven the 10 oclock train had to wait till
we had got out. We arrived at New Haven safely. We hired a carriage and rode to the fair. We
stayed in the fair 4 hours then we went in an omnibus and rode as near Uncle Ogden’s as possible.
We bought some cake and arrived at Uncle Ogden’s safe and sound. They prepared a dinner for us,
of which we eat heartily. We then went down to the cars. I jumped into them amidst the crowd.
There were not enough cars to accommodate us all so they had to get cattle cars boarded up at the
sides. We had over 23 cars on and it was estimated that there were about 1500 people in the cars.
We got or rather arrived at Milford in safety. We let off about 1/2 the cars at the junction so that the
bridge was relieved from the heavy weight which would have broken asunder and would have been
rendered into pieces. We arrived home in safety and received a letter from sister. Of which we were
very glad. We all determined never to go in an excursion train again. Papa bought a ticket for Miss
Abbey Lewis who went with us.
Nov 3, 1856 School was to have commenced today, but Mr. Sedgwick had a very bad toothache
indeed.
Nov 4, 1856 Today school commenced. It is election day. Fremont carried it here in Stratford. He
got 208 Buchanan 175 Fillmore 8. Papa voted for Fillmore.
Nov 8, 1856 Today I rode Aunt Lizzy to Bridgeport.
Nov 12, 1856 Cousin Carrie was married to Mr. Stephen Burroughs
Nov 13, 1856 Fine beautiful weather now.
Nov 14, 1856 I commenced Algebra two weeks ago and like it very much. The weather looks like
snow.
Nov 29, 1856 When we awoke this morning we found this out, viz, that it had snowed.
Dec ?, 1856 Oh! What beautiful weather.
Dec 6, 1856 Fine day
Dec 13, 1856 Today is Saturday. Pa and I startted to go to Bridgeport butg we found that Yellow
Mill bridge was taken up and so we had to go over old mill. The traveling was not very good.
Dec 20, 1856 Christmas is coming. We are getting presents ready.
Dec 25, 1856 Christmas Day has come at last, with many and very handsome presents. Papa got a
very handsome present from us children. It was a testament in very large print. Mother got a pair of
buttonhole scissors from Cordelia and myself. She received from Kittie 4 splendid mats. Kittie
received a book entitled “woman in her various relations” from Cordelia and myself and I gave or
rather wrote her a letter in Latin. She received from Mother two books entitled “Milton’s Practical
Works” and “Spencer and His Faery Queen”. From Papa a very handsome napkin ring. Cordelia
received another napkin ring from Papa. From Mother, a portfolio. From Kittie, “Story of
Columbus.” From one, a bedstead, an account book, a lead pencil, some ceiling wax, and a cake of
Rubber. I received a silver napkin ring from Papa, a book entitled “Henry the IV” from Kittie, two
books from Mother, viz, “Life of Whitfield” and “Wordsworth Poems,” which was very acceptable,
especially the last one. From Cordelia a cake of rubber, an account book, some ceiling wax and a
lead pencil. It was the pleasantest day that ever was, but it did not rain any, but snowed slightly in
the morning. I undertook to build a fort, but I did not finish it all.
Dec 31, 1856 Uncle William and Aunt Sarah came this morning from Marcellus to make us a visit.
I do not think they have altered in the least. The snow is quite deep yet.
The end of the year 1856
Good Bye to the old year 1856
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. [name
illegible] 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:
[names illegible]. Miss Dotten sold the tickets. She is Mr. Sedgwick’s assistant teacher at school. I
took two grabs. I kept 1 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 ehas.
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 winte so far. It waas 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 bok 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 know if
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 [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 edged 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 [illegible] palaces. 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 [name
illegible] 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. [name illegible].
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, 1857 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 [illegible] 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 [name illegible] Pluto, the god of the informal regions
[name illegible] 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,
Gliwitz[?].
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 hurry[?]. 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 rigging a ship. I did in 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 DC. The Episcopalians, after a long perseveriance, have
succeeded 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 propsect 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 D, 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 ahs been, although it is not what yhou 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. Gliwitz
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 Ogeden 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. Pas 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 Pequonie.
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 Gleqitz today the 12th. He has got a beautiful little pony.
Sept 15, 1857 I have just been riding with Dr. Gleiwitz -- 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:
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 [illegible] 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 fifth 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 in 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 MontEagle 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 erapids 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, or
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 non Uncle Beach 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 Peckslip[?] 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 Mr. 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 [illegible] or twice with
him when he was buying his horse. But he never paid for the horse. Aft a bill 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
========================
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 sleep for $25.00 -- quite a difference. [name illegible]
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 tableclot 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 and made so 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.
1858
Jan 1, 1858 Cordelia and I went down to meet the Bunnell children. They came.
Jan 2, 1858 We all went down to sail my boat. (We all went to Mr. Sedgwick’s house last night. I
was a waiter, an honorable Just. We raised 53.50 to go to the poor children of New York. We got
home about 11 o’clock. For particulars go to Kate’s journal)
Jan 5, 1858 Today is Mother’s birthday.
Jan 6, 1858 Mother and the two Mrs. Walker went to Miss Bowden’s to tea. Had a very pleasant
time. I have just brought my sled home. It cost in the first place $2.00 and the painting $1.25,
whole cost $3.25. I could not have bought it anywhere for less than $5.00. Charley Goulding
painted a portrait of Washington on it. It is beautiful. The sled is about ___ long ____high and
____wide
Jan 8, 1858 Cordelia had the sewing society here today. It snows like everything.
Jan 9, 1858 Today is Sunday. I went over to the meeting house between the ringing of the bells and
distributed Child’s Papers. Sunday School Concert tonight. Mr. Hamilton is going to address us.
Jan 11, 1858 Today is Monday, rainy as it can be. The rain has taken all the snow off. A very fine
lecture from Mr. Hamilton.
Week A great revival have [incomplete]
Jan 19, 1858 Aunt Cornelia came up here today. What a nice woman she is. The other night Mr.
[name illegible] was chasing some boys who pulled his pockets off and fell down and broke his
nose, a fact though funny.
Jan 23, 1858 The thermometer is down to [illegible], the lowest it has been this year. Have got a
beautiful sled. Have just got some shafts done for my sled. My dog has just been carrying me about
in hay wagon.
Jan 26, 1858 I have to study very hard, take 60 lines in Virgil. I am going to finish the first book of
Aenid next week. I am going to leave off chemistry.
Jan 28, 1858 Mr. Sedgwick sent me at half past eleven o’clock AM to watch when the man should
go over to take the rooster off from the episcopal Church. So when I saw the man go up, I told him
and he let us all out. We then run down the hill as fast as our legs would carry us, which I assure
you was fast running. Henry Wells was in such a hurry that he forgot his hat. The way the men got
up to the rooster was this: they projected a pole from the door in the steeple and then made it fast by
ropes to the inside. It looked like this: When he put the rooster on the ground, it would measure I
should think 3 feet high and the same length from tip to tail. Mr. Lessy[?], the contractor of the
Episcopal Church, offered $15.00 for anyone who would take the rooster down, so John Wheeler,
one of his workmen, did it.
Jan 30, 1858 I have so much to do I can not write this week, but will next.
Feb 1, 1858 What a day!!!! It has been hailing, raining, snowing without any blowing and it has
not stopped yet. The boys are skating to school.
Feb 4-5, 1858 Fine days.
Feb 6, 1858 Today is Saturday. I am really thankful for that. I have left off Chemistry. I liked it.
Mr. Sedgwick said that he had no objection of my leaving it off except the class would suffer --
quite a compliment, but it is not true.
Feb 10, 1858 As I was in my class of Algebra, Mr. Sedgwick called over the number of the scholars
and how many sums each had done. When he came to my number 27, said: 27 - 5 Why! Is twentyseven
going to do more sums than those who have been through the book once? I don’t know, but is
wrong for me to take up all the time about myself: Coloured text
Feb 14, 1858 Today is Sunday. I have got a influenza accompanied with a bad headache. This is
first Sunday I have staid home in a year and a half or more.
Feb 15, 1858 Well enough to go to school.
Feb 16, 1858 My cold is so bad, I had to stay home. First time in a year.
Feb 17, 1858 I staid home.
Feb 18, 1858 Mr. S. asked Kate today how I was. He said he didn’t believe I was sick as him.
Feb 19, 1858 I staid home.
Feb 20, 1858 Although there is no school, I cannot go out.
Feb 21, 1858 Sunday, but I am absent from church.
Feb 22, 1858 First time I have been to school in a week.
Feb 27, 1858 Have been out doors and chopped up a large pile of wood in 2 hours for exercise.
Nothing has been stirring of any importance since I wrote last. Pa just came in with no letters. He
does not seem to get near enough to the fire. He is so cold.
Feb 28 Today is Sunday. Pa is sick in bed. I have been over to Mr. Dayton’s to see if he can go to
Bridgeport after Doctor Horton for Pa is very sick indeed. He said that he came very near dying last
night and he looks as if he would. I never was more frightened in my life, I believe.
Monday --
Doctor Horton has just come. He says, “he is very sick, a very sick man.”
March 2, 1858 Pa has a lame foot.
March 3, 1858 Sewing Society here. Miss Anna Hawes, Alida and Mary Booth admitted to see Pa.
March 4, 1858 Pa’s foot better.
March 18, 1858 Never such a time for I have to learn pieces, dialogues and what not. We are
learning Virgil, 45 lines per day. Pa’s foot is getting bettere. I am so glad. Was there ever such a
patient man? Today is Cordelia’s birthday.
March 20, 1858 For particulars of Pa’s sickness, refer to Kate’s, which of course has it in. Pa rode
out today for the first time. He walks with a cane.
April 1, 1858 The reason I have not written is because I have not had time. My time is spent for
exam, exams. My examination is done. I have passed a good one. I examined one of the Latin
classes.
Evening: I have sold 43 tickets for Exhibition. I spoke 2 pieces, one, Village Schoolmaster --
humorous, other, One Country in 3 dialogues. We sold tickets at 10 cents apiece in order to buy
circulars.
April 2, 1858 Fast Day. Men and boys playing ball down to Mr. William Booth’s. 21 on each side.
April 5, 1858 Election Day. Republicans have beaten here. A great game of ball of which I am a
player.
April 6, 1858 A beautiful day. They all went over to Bridgeport.
April 8, 1858 Jimmie Mitchell has just come over for me to play a game of chess.
April 9, 1858 Jimmie beat me last night, but are even now.
Noon-- I have just come from Jimmie Mitchell, triumphing on the games I have beaten, viz, 4
games of Backgammon (one of which I gammoned him), 1 of Pyramids, and 1 of “giveaway” and 1
of checkers.
April 10, 1858 Great game of ball. I have knocked a number of times.
April 12, 1858 Today is Monday. Playing ball and reading.
April 13, 1858 Playing ball.
April 18, 1858 School begins today. Not very pleasant.
April 19, 1858 I study Virgil, Pegin[?] 4th book, spelling, reading, Greenleaf’s National Arithmetic,
algebra, Greenleaf’s Most Through (Thorough?] Algebra.
April 23, 1858 Studying away hard. I have always wanted Mr. Sedgwick to give us longer lessons
in Virgil, but he has not because the girls did not like it. But now he has told we may. Good!!
Good!!!
May 1, 1858 Today is Saturday and with it work and play. I have been doing chores around the
house &c beside writing a composition, “The Necessity of Fixed Principles.” Have made quite a
good “compo” Have been playing ball around at Mr. Sedgwick’s house. I drew my side in 6 times.
I can play first rate. How nice it is to be “jack at all trades” and “master of all”. I set my steel trap
over to Mr. Mitchell’s day before yesterday and caught a cat. It is most supper time. I must leave
off. We now take 82 lines in the 4th book of Virgil, 83 tomorrow, 84 next.
May 2, 1858 Mr. Swan preached for us today. What a splendid preacher he is!
May 7, 1858 Still increasing in Latin.
May 12, 1858 Today I am 14 years old. I am too sorry to say anything about it.
May 14, 1858 Today is Friday and for Monday’s lesson we take 93 lines. I am getting along in
National Arithmetic finely. I spoke today.
May 15, 1858 Night -- “After mail” I was caught up by some girls so that I was compelled to walk
with them. George Strong accompanied. After we had walked once or twice up and down street we
went Carrie Wilmot’s house and there had a pleasant “chat.” The names of the girls were these:
Julia and Clara Wells, Carrie and Louisa Wilmot. I had a first rate time and all of us enjoyed it well.
But while I was delighting myself and those around me all of them here at home were anxious about
me. Cordelia was crying. Pa was trying to comfort the rest but her own heart was almost broken by
thinking I should be brought in dead!!!!!
May 22, 1858 Rain, Rain, Rain.
May 26, 1858 Charles Talbot gets most awfully scolded in Latin, but he says “I can’t remember the
gender of nouns.” Then that makes him worse. It is the same in Arithmetic, but I tell him, “Charley,
much learning has made thee mad.”
June 3, 1858 Nothing particular is going on. Captain Dayton is getting well. He can get along
quite easily on his foot without crutches.
June 6, 1858 We had Mr. Strong’s nephew to preach for us today, who is called quite smart, but on
account of an anecdote he told, the people did not like him.
June 8, 1858 This afternoon I staid home from school. I had such a headache.
June 9, 1858 Today [ditto marks]
June 10, 1858 This afternoon [ditto marks] Last week we had our posts taken out in the parlor and had Mr. Stratton to plaster it round. So when
he got through, I made some plaster of paris and with it a most beautiful image of a man’s head. I
then painted it and it still remains upon the chimney in the shop.
June 24, 1858 Mother has finally been persuaded upon to let Jimmie Mitchell go in a swimming
with me.
June 25, 1858 Jimmie and I went in swimming again today.
June 26, 1858 Jimmie and I went in swimming again today at 11 o’clock and staid till 1. The water
is very cold, so much so that we were compelled to rub ourselves with our towels, but finding that
was not going to pay, we got on a boat and warmed ourselves in the noonday sun. We first leaping
on the boat, then into the water, passed the hours as pleasantly as possible.
Evening -- Got a very severe headache indeed. I can hardly hold it up.
June 24, 1858 Sunday-- I slept downstairs last night, I was so sick. I shall not go to church.
Evening -- I have just showed Mother my back. It is a sight worth seeing.
June 28, 1858 I am going to sta home from school today.
June 30, 1858 Ditto, ditto, ditto
July 1-2, 1858 I am going to stay home the rest of this week.
July 2, Afternoon -- I think as I feel better I shall go to school, just to see how things get along.
Night -- While I was sitting up in my seat, Mr. Sedgwick came along and wrote on my slate: “Quam
est dorsum?”
to which I replied, “id est valescere et deprivare me pelle.” Applause.
July 3, 1858 Preparing for the 5th
July 5, 1858 Capt Sands some time ago gave the town a cannon which the boys have fired up and
for which a subscription of 26 or 30 dollars has been raised. And the boys have placed the cannon
between Mr. Booth’s and Johnson’s and are firing all the time. There are two fairs, Meth and
Episcopalian. I have been to the Methodist, for they need it more than the Episcopalians do.
Jimmie Mitchell has been with me. The Methodists have hired a band of music which draws away
many from the Episcopalians, but it did not cost them anything for it was taken up by subscription.
They have the tent owned by the Fairfield Co. which is far more commodious than the one owned
by the Gale Coley’s, which the Episcopalians have.
July 6, 1858 Jimmie and I again have been to the Methodists. Both are free.
Night -- George Strong and I have been to the Episcopal. I got home at 10:45
July 7, 1858 Nearly used up
July 8, 1858 Getting better.
July 10, 1858 Have taken a nap every day since the 5th
July 14, 1858 Mother trusted Jimmie and I to cross the river after Jimmie has most skinned his
throat in arguing, but now has obtained the blessing.
July 16, 1858 We crossed the river today.
July 17, 1858 It is clouding up.
July 18, 1858 Sunday unpleasant
July 19, 1858 I picked currents today for sweetmeats.
July 20, 1858 I picked currents today for Wine. It took 8 qts. of currents to make two gallons. I
earned .75 doing it.
July 24, 1858 It is a beautiful day today
July 25, 1858 Mr. Swan preached for us yesterday. We thik of giving him a call, for Mr. Page is
going away.
July 31, 1858 Grade this week has been rather dull for me. I have earned hardly any money. Next
week I must go to school and study like anything and everything. I have been swimming several
times this week.
The Bible Record on the next two pages will last for any number of years.
[Two pages of a suggested daily/weekly schedule for Bible readings]
Aug 2, 1858 Today school commences at the Academy. Cordelia and I go. Mr. Sedgwick has no
assistant as yet.
Aug 3, 1858 I study Latin -- Virgil (and am the only one in it). Greek with Curtis Thompson, who is
23 years old and is fitting for college. Greenleaf’s Algebra (which I am reviewing), spelling,
besides reading and Parsing.
Aug 4, 1858 It seems hard to study after such a long vacation aas we have
Aug 6, 1858 It is rumored that the Telegraph fleet has succeeded. Mr Sam’l Jackson, who is very
headstrong in everything, has said that it would never succeed, but now he uses the strong epithet,
“It is a d___ned humbug. We are near enough our Mother Country.”
August 9, 1858 No more news as yet about the telegraph cable. None in the paper, but the
Mormons and their hostility.
[Backtracks]
July 29, 1858 Today I beg pardon for not writing before about this important thing: the
Consecration of the Episcopal Church takes place. Elizabeth and Susan Sterling, Cousin John
William, wife and sister dined with us, and beside them Kate and Julia Bunnell.
July 30, 1858 Jimmie Bunnell and his sisters went home today.
Aug 13, 1858 Dog days are very oppressive, especially today.
Aug 15, 1858 Today Mr. Robert Booth preached for us. He has greatly improved since we last
heard him.
Aug 16, 1858 No news as yet concerning the Queen’s Message. It is high time for it to come.
Aug 17, 1858 Last night at 12:30 news was received at Washington that the Queen’s Message had
come. The people have been firing all the night in Bridgeport and in New York and New Haven and
all the other cities of the Union. The news has been received with excessive joy.
Afternoon -- We went to school this morning, but Mr. Sedgwick let us out this afternoon. When we
came out of school this morning, we gave a tremendous yell so that the hills and valleys resounded.
I have just come from Mr. Thomas Fairchild’s and have been filling the cartridges which hold 1 lb
of powder apiece.
4 o’clock -- Jimmie Mitchell and I have just arrived upon the Academy Hill (where they are going to
fire the cannon) after having a beautiful bath over to Nell’s Island -- a beautiful place to swim --
excepting only the mosquitoes when one is undressing or dressing the Oh! how they bite! The
cannon is now going off and all the bells ringing and I am sitting on the Academy steps with few
other boys listening to the concussion of the atmosphere.
I shall try in the future to be more regular in my writing and shall now say what papers Pa takes &c
The Daily Times, the only daily paper we take is published every morning, Sunday excepted. Price
two cents, served at 12 1/2 per week and six dollars a year.
The French paper “Courier des Etas-Unis” comes weekly -- Pa and Kate read it. The price is four
dollars per year.
The “Observer” comes weekly also. It is published every Thursday, but we always read the
Religious Department Sunday. We pay $2.50 in advance.
Then the “Child’s Paper” comes at .10 per year in this way.
Mr. Geo T. Judson brings about 200 “Child’s Papers” and Messengers and I have to write names on
each one. Only think on 200 and then besides all that have to distribute them and Oh! what a
job!!!!! I have done this now for nearly a year and when the year expires how happy I shall be. The
facts are these: about 11 months ago Mother, who is President of most every society, had called a
meeting for seeing about some business. After they were done talking about their money affairs,
Miss Alida Booth said she could not take them any more, and so Miss Elizabeth Curtis put me in.
Then Miss A. Booth said I was a good writer &c and she would second the motion.
Aug 21, 1858 Today is Saturday and I am trying to write a composition.
Aug 22, 1858 Last Sunday Mr. Robert Booth preached for us. He has greatly improved since we
last heard him.
Aug 23, 1858 I rise every morning as early as I can see and get my Greek and Latin. We take very
long lessons in Greek. Curtis Thompson, who is about 23 yrs old, is the only one who studies this
with me. He was converted this last winter and is now studying for college. He has just entered the
second book of Virgil and I am half through the eleventh. He wears a beard and looks funny in our
seat.
Aug 24, 1858 Up at light studying Greek.
Aug 27, 1858 I forgot to tell one anecdote about Mrs. Lindsley. The night the Queen’s Message
was received, she illuminated her house by putting one tallow candle to a window.
Aug 28, 1858 I neglected to write on the 20th, but I will now. I froze the ice cream and with Kate’s
help set the table. It looked beautifully. Then the whole family were invited into the front room and
we had a jolly time. We expect Mr. [name illegible] to preach for us tomorrow.
Aug 29, 1858 Yesterday Mr. Swan preached for us. We like him very much.
Aug 30, 1858 Beautiful Day, like October.
Sept 1, 1858 Today will be a day to be remembered in days to come. The celebration of the
Atlantic Telegraph Cable. In New York, great preparations have been made and also in most the
cities of the Union. But nothing in Old Stratford.
Sept 2, 1858 We have just learned from the paper that the quarantine haas been burned down by 30
or 40 men and all the patients were turned out upon the grass, even those who were in the last stages
of the disease -- yellow fever.
Sept 3, 1858 Today Mother had a little tea party. Mrs. William Booth, Page, Dougherty, Walker,
Ezra Wheeler and Mr. Mitchell. They had a first rate time. I froze some first-rate cream.
Sept 4, 1858 The end of dog days, but the last is muggy enough. Everything so sticky.
Sept 6, 1858 We have beautiful mornings now, but no one up to enjoy them but myself. We take
very long lessons in Greek now. I have been Mr. Sedgwick’s assistant for this quarter, now about 6
weeks. In the morning I would hear Geography, Spelling, Reading and hear the little boys (Jimmie
Billins, Oliver Talbot, Fred Sedgwick) read or rather show them their letters. In the afternoon after I
have recited my Greek, I hear Arithmetic, Philosophy, United States History, and the little boys read.
I go home at 3 PM.
Sept 7, 1858 Mr. Billins, whose mind is greatly affected, got lost last night. The facts are these: Mr.
Dunbar had taken Mr. Billins to Bridgeport and they had just returned, it being 9 o’clock then. Mr.
Dunbar went into the house and supposed Mr. Billins was behind him, but about 10 o’clock they
missed him and were up till 2 this morning. All the neighborhood having been called up. Finally
Howard Russell found him coming home and he asked him where he had been and he said, “to take
a walk.” har, har, har.
Sept 8, 1858 Mrs Dunbar will have a great party tonight. Pa and Mother have just sent in their
refusal.
Sept 9, 1858 Mr. Sedgwick has hired Curtis Thompson to teach, who will give his whole time to it.
Thereby will get his schooling for nothing.
Sept 10, 1858 It was reported that a man by the name of Prince, who lives the other side of the
bridge, tried to commit a highway robbery but got nicely fixed -- most killed.
Sept 11, 1858 Today it is very close indeed, but I think it will be hotter by and bye. We crossed the
river yesterday. By we I mean Jimmy and myself and went in swimming. I can swim about a rod or
two. Jimmie Mitchell and I wrote the names on the Child’s Papers last night and shall distribute
them this morning. There is quite a wind blowing up.
Sept 13, 1858 Pa took a cold tonight and we hope it will be nothing serious for Kate must go to
New Haven day after tomorrow to boarding school.
Sept 14, 1858 Pa is sick in bed., quite sick. I shall go after the Doctor if he is worse. But I must
return to yesterday’s date again. One or two men have a paper on which there are twenty shares for
the old Episcopal Church, that is, each man who pays $5.00 has one twentieth of the Church, but is
compelled, after he has sent his man or himself to pull it down, to grade his part of ground -- I guess
they will get it graded!!!!!!!!!!!! Well, yesterday they commenced at the old steeple. In the first
place they put a strong rope through the highest trap door and made it fast to one of the large
timbers. They then haul the other end thrugh a pulley which is fastened around one of Mr. Johnson’s
elm trees with a rope.
And now they are ready to pull it down but the fates have ordained that one man should be hurt --
namely Geo Hubbell, who lives down in that old black hut by “Grannie Fairchild’s” who has such a
lazy streak running through him he can hardly live and support his numerous family. The way he
was hurt was thus: he was standing on the side of the rope that lies towards the street and pulling
with all his strength when the rope that was fastened around the tree gave way and the block struck
him square in the mouth. Fortunately, Dr. John McEwen was there, who removed him in his
carriage to his wife and family. Three times they tried to pull it over, but it fell not until the men had
cut some of the posts entirely through, then it came, but not with as much of a crash as we thought it
would. It looks like this:
The very end went into the ground five feet!! This took till 11 o’clock when our old bell at the
Academy let forth its peal into the dusty air and we were called to school.
We are most through Sophocles Greek Grammar now. Tonight I went down after Doctor Schroder
for Pa.
Sept 15, 1858 Pa is a little better this morning, but not well enough to go to New Haven today.
Mother and I will go to New Haven if it clears off, but there is no probability of that. Oh! how it
does rain!! Kate feels quite back as she can not go to New Haven.
Sept 16, 1858 We got Mr. Allis, our man, to take Kate, Mother and myself down to the depot where
we embarked for New Haven. We started at the hour of 7 AM and reached New Haven at 7:30. I
then procured a carman to take Kate’s trunk up to Mr. Robert’s, while we walked. Finally we
reached the house and found Mr. and Mrs. Roberts. We staid about 5 or ten minutes when we
started for Uncle Ogden’s, whom we found engaged with a minister, but his interview was broken
by our reception. I saw David and had quite an interview with him. We talked about college
matters, of course. We staid about 1 hour and Uncle Ogden accompanying us, we removed down to
the principal hat store in the city and I bought me a cap which I like very much. We then entered a
book store where I bought my “Anthon’s Jacobs Greek Reader” which I shall begin Monday.
Sept 17, 1858 Today is Saturday and we are all sitting by the fire. Pa is better but will not be able
to go to Church tomorrow.
Sept 19, 1858 Today is Monday and I have learned my Greek lesson -- 3 lines. Curt Thompson
studies with me. They are working at the church again today. Smash is written on everything and
destruction of every board.
Sep 19 -- Afternoon -- We had first rate lessons in Greek, but it is hard. Last Friday I commenced
reviewing the last 8 books in Virgil, leaving the first 4 books because I had read them before.
Sept 20, 1858 I take 6 lines per day -- a pretty good lot with Greek too
Sept 22, 1858 We collect all Grandma’s children up here tomorrow to see about dividing &c
Sept 23, 1858 Today’s cars have brought all the folks.
Sept 24, 1858 They all are busy about dividing.
Sept 25, 1858 9 o’clock -- I am over to Grandma’s helping them pack or rather tie up a looking
glass. Uncle Holden is as mad as possible at Aunt Amanda for delaying. I fear he will swear -- he
in such a frenzy.
Sept 26, 1858 Aunt Julia and I went to Bridgeport. I did some money business for Uncle David and
then drove her around to make some calls. Then I came home all alone. I had a nice ride eating
dates.
Sept 29, 1858 We are getting along nicely in Greek. It is pretty hard.
Oct 1, 1858 I have just finished reviewing my Virgil, that is the last 8 books, taking 600 lines per
day. Monday I shall commence [illegible].
Oct 2, 1858 Today is Saturday. I have just finished writing my composition. I expect to go to
Bridgeport this morning and bring Uncle David home.
Afternoon -- I took Jimmie Mitchell over to Bridgeport and left him there. I got a pair of pants cut
and had a nice ride till 4 o’clock with Aunt Eliz
Oct 3, 1858 What an awful preacher -- Mr. Dudley
Oct 4, 1858 Today I commence Sallust all alone. We are getting along finely in Greek.
Oct 6, 1858 A beautiful day.
Oct 7, 1858 The folks expect to go to New Haven today, but will be disappointed. I am afraid for it
is clouding up. Cordelia’s heart is most broken because she can not go to New Haven.
Oct 8, 1858 I woke them all up this morning and I guess they will go at 10 o’clock.
Noon -- I find myself all alone eating dinner and some candy and peanuts in the sugar bowl, so I
conclude they have gone.
Afternoon -- I shall go to the cars at 5
Oct 9, 1858 Today the comet reaches its perehelion: how bright it will be!!! Yesterday I went to
school as usual and was quite disappointed in not finding the folks in the 5 o’clock train.
Oct 14, 1858 The quarter is most ended.
Oct 15, 1858 Today is Friday. Our school closes today. I never knew a quarter pass before with so
little anticipation of the end. During the quarter I with Curtis Tompson have learned Sophocles’
Greek Grammar besides reading 5 pages and one half in Anthon’s Jacobs Greek Reader. I reviewed
Greenleaf’s Algebra to Annuitys, read 3 or 4 books in the Aenid, then reviewing the last 8 and the
quarter being not yet ended I read 17 sections in Sallust and besides all these my principal studies, I
had Parsing, Reading, Spelling, and 4 classes to hear regularly and more at the beginning of the
quarter.
Oct 15 & 17, 1858 I took some of Uncle David’s folks to Bridgeport. I also helped Mr. Sedgwick
and Uncle David to measure a place for the church.
Oct 18, 1858 I did not have time yesterday to write the news, but I will strive to now. Yesterday
Mr. McEwen got his ladder ready and with the aid of Mr. Gypson ascended the inside of the steeple
up to a little door when a ladder was erected bound around the spire with cords. Then another was
raised and bound around in the same manner. Finally Mr. McEwen rose triumphantly above the feet
and minds of men and beasts and yet condescended to place his nose beneath or rather under the
rooster tail. He then, as if disgusted with the perfume, quickly knocked the rooster above him when
he fell into my hands, the first to receive him. Immediately I untied the rope and carried him into
Uncle David’s cellar kitchen. Today I took Uncle David to Bridgeport.
Oct 19, 1858 Today I took Uncle David to Bridgeport.
Oct 20, 1858 I go a riding every day. I like to drive Uncle David’s horse.
Oct 21, 1858 Mr Tailor’s raft is not around here yet.
Oct 22, 1858 Great tide in the river, a vessel run aground.
Oct 23, 1858 How quick the vacation passes.
Oct 24, 1858 Mr. Northrup preached for us today. He is quite a smart young man, but a good deal
of brass about him.
Oct 25, 1858 Today is Monday. Very cold.
Oct 26, 1858 The pulling down of the steeple is the talk.
Evening -- Early this morning they commenced sawing off the kingsposts. About 11 o’clock this
morning they commenced pulling on the rope, but without any avail. But finally it settles, takes the
bell frame and lets the bell fall 2 feet upon the hole by which you ascend the belfry. And now it
totters and at last brakes its bonds and falls upon its side and brakes everything all to pieces. It fell
differently from the Episcopal steeple. This morning the Association of Fairfield East met at the
Conference Room but adjourned long enough to witness the downfall of the steeple. It was our lot
to entertain 2 ministers, or rather one minister and one deacon. The former’s name was Mr. Coe,
and the latter’s Deacon Baird. I have as relics one of the posts around the bell and an ornament
under the dead lights. They are trying to fix the bell, but it will not be ready for installation. Today
has been very cold.
Oct 27, 1858 Never was a more beautiful day for Installation. Not quite so cold as it was yesterday.
But they can not ring the bell for its frame is all broken. Mr. Sedgwick and two of Mr. Charles
Curtis’ men are working at it. Cordelia sat up gallery. And I think she must have been much elated.
This afternoon I harnessed Uncle David’s horse and went up town to the cellar upon which Mr.
[name illegible] house is to be raised next week.
Oct 28, 1858 Today I made two rulers out of the church and expect to make more tomorrow.
Oct 29, 1858 Very pleasant day. I made two more rulers today. The longest is about 2 1/2 feet long
while the smallest is only 1 1/2 feet long and the other two between. I have oiled them and they
look quite pretty. I shall varnish them.
Oct 30, 1858 Today is Saturday. Mr. Tailor (the man who is to move the church) has brought all his
ways but they are not under the building. But today has been so rainy, they have not been able to
work upon it. The stone steps to the steeple door have been removed. The ways lie all along the
sides of the church and also near the ends, so there is no way of access, only in a round about
manner.
This afternoon I went down to Mr. Robert Dayton’s to mend my suspender. I also made a box with
14 partitions so as to hold every sort of [illegible].
This is the last day of vacation. How quickly it passes!! I shall endeavor next quarter to study as
hard as I did last.
Nov 1, 1858 Today school commences. Mr. Sedgwick has me up in his chair writing off the names
of the scholars.
Nov 2, 1858 Some of Mr. Tailor’s timber has come.
Nov 3, 1858 The men are getting away the under priming in some places so as to set the screws.
The sills of the church are completely rotten that have to put large blocks in their place.
Nov 4, 1858 The church men are setting screws. Uncle Beach and Aunt Sarah came today.
Nov 5, 1858 The church men are setting screws under the middle of the church. They are also
placing long timbers under the church so as to hold up the floor.
Nov 6, 1858 Mr. James Booth is bringing stones for the new church.
Nov 7, 1858 Mr. Swan’s first sermon! What a contrast between his and Mr. Page’s. We had a paper
from Mr. Page some time ago containing his first sermon at Perry, which was full of boasting and
pride and of course flocks of people wanted to read it. So it had to go, but when it came Mr.
Talbot’s turn to have it, it was destroyed in this manner: Mr. T. went down to New York and forgot
to send the paper home as he promised, but immediately he wrote to [name illegible] to bring it up
to us, which he did, but coudl not get in, so he folded it up nicely and laid it upon the mantel piece
and the next morning the servant used it to kindle her fire!!
Nov 9, 1858 Uncle Beach and Aunt Sarah and Mother went to New Haven to see Kate, who was
very glad to see them.
Nov 10, 1858 Last night I went to the cars after Mother and Aunt Sarah, who came without Uncle
Beach, who went up to Cheshire to see his folks.
Nov 11, 1858 Uncle Beach came from New Haven today.
Nov 14, 1858 Uncle Beach and Aunt Sarah have heard Mr. Swan twice and they like his preaching
very much. We all attended the funeral of Mr. [name illegible].
Nov 15, 1858 Today Uncle Beach and wife went home having made a very pleasant visit. They
remained with us 11 days.
Nov 16-17, 1858 The men are working at the church, but it is not moved yet.
Nov 19, 1858 Mother and Pa went to Bridgeport today and the former bought a new hat
Nov 21, 1858 Mr. Swan preached today.
Nov 22, 1858 It rained all day.
Nov 23, 1858 The rain washed away all the snow that was left.
Nov 24, 1858 Morning -- We expect Kate tonight. I rose as usual and studied an hour by
candlelight.
Nov 25, 1858 Last night Kate came and how glad she was to see us and we her. She looks as red
and as large as ever. Today is Thanksgiving and what an elegant sermon! Its subject was principally
on the power of the silences. It was beautiful. There was more thought in it than in all of Mr. Pages
put together. It was grand. One wanted to think of it a week before he could penetrate all the deep
thoughts. We all went to church, which was not moved at all. How slow and lazy are the men. One
of whom is 6 feet 4 inches in height, but is as indolent as any of them and they all swear dreadfully.
Ed Tailor is the best of all. He is good natured and has a fancy mustache and his upper lip and a
little bunch or two under his whiskers are slightly yellow, his teeth white. John, the Irish carpenter,
keeps to his work all the time. Wyley is a long haired fellow full of wind. Mr. Taylor, the head
workman or contractor rather is quite an easy man. Milton, the tall one, and Ed are both cousins
and nephew of the contractor.
Now for our dinner. What a splendid goose. It weighed 14 lbs!! We had 3 kinds of pie, yes one
other kind too. And so many other things which I cannot now mention.
Nov 26, 1858 Pa and I took a walk up to Mr. Carter’s house where was an auction. We bid for
nothing, but came home just in time to witness the first moving of the church. The church looks on
the floor just like this with one exception, it looks a great deal better, but anyway, you can get a little
knowledge of it by it.
The two outside lines are the ways on which the building is placed. The timbers running parallel
with the width of the church are placed underneath the building so as to keep the floor up which is
very rotten. Underneath these cross timbers shoes as they call it are put, which are graced on the
under side. Then two jackscrews one at one corner and the other one on the other and then they
screw. The building moves quarter of an inch at a time.
Today I did not go to school. Hardly anyone went, it being the day after Thanksgiving.
Nov 27, 1858 How the church moves! You can see all of Mr. David Dayton’s shop now.
Nov 28, 1858 Today is Sunday. It snows quite hard. If it continues, Kate will not go to New Haven
tomorrow.
Nov 29, 1858 I am up this morning as usual and the snow is a foot deep in some places and more
shallow in others. I have been around to the depot to see about the trains. Kate is determined to go
and I suppose she will. I have made all the paths and Pa and Kate have just started for the depot.
And while I am writing this, which was before sunrise, my pen slipped out of mouth and made all
these little blots while I was pulling the window shade down.
Dec 1, 1858 I took my new large sled on which a portrait of Washington is painted to school and it
went ahead of any on the hill.
Dec 3, 1858 They are moving the church quite fast.
Dec 4, 1858 They are moving the church quite fast and have now got it almost to the destined place.
Dec 5, 1858 Today is Sunday
Dec 6, 1858 Mr. Wm Peck and James Booth with help are digging the cellar of the new church.
What a beautiful green it would make
Dec 9, 1858 Cordelia and I took our dinner to school today. It was very rainy.
Dec 10, 1858 Today it continues raining. I have just come in from the shop, having been busily
engaged in mending Cordelia’s basket through which a mouse made its way to the bread and butter.
Dec 18, 1858 Pa and I arrived at the depot in time to witness the arrival of our Dear Sister Kate’s
return to Stratford. She was just in time to shake the “doughnut pot”
Dec 24, 1858 The Methodists hold a Fair in the basement of their church. All was confusion,
uproar and tumult. The young men threw fried chicken, cake upon the wall, floor and seats. I was
disgusted and after I had bought some little trinkets and candy started for my home. Kate was
beaued home by Robert Sedgwick accompanied by his sister.
Dec 25, 1858 Today is Christmas!! What a happy day!! Rose late this morning, it being about 5:30
AM when I came downstairs, but I did not look into my stocking or any of the rest’s till the whole
family was assembled. The presents were as follows:
Kate had:
An album -- from Cordelia and myself
A pair of worsted undersleeves from Cordelia
A very handsome bracelet from Mother
Cordelia had:
A very handsome locket from Mother
A book “Richard the Third” from Kate
A handsome gold stud from myself (and a lot of candy)
Mother hadn:
A very beautiful tidy from Kate
A very beautiful cord and tassel from Cordelia and JWS
Pa had:
A very beautiful set of studs from his three dear children
I received:
Splendid gold sleeve buttons from Mother
A book entitled “Diary and Correspondence of Amos Lawrence” from Pa
A handsome pair of worked slippers from Kate
A handsome Congress knife from Kate and Cordelia
After breakfast, I went over to Miss Polly’s and showed her and the folks my things. Methodist Fair
continued this night. Some fighting and need of a Constable. Carrie Sedgwick came this morning
to practice on our melodeon preparatory to playing on that instrument in church, Miss Anna and
Eliza Hawes being on a visit in New York. Charley Booth has spent this week at Mrs. Walker’s.
Thus passes the old year. May the new year increase my knowledge, my formation of good habits,
and make me better in every possible manner!!!!!!
<comments />
