Horace Purdy Journal November 1868 Entry
12pgs
NOVEMBER 01 SUNDAY - Stormy all day. I went down to the church at noon, but there was no session of the Sunday School on account of the rain. So Fred Shears and I spent an hour or more at the library putting books in their places and putting numbers on the backs of such as had lost them off. I then came home where I spent the remainder of the day. NOVEMBER 02 MONDAY - Rain and snow all day until evening when the stars shone. I have been to New York. I made frames at the store. I brought home a walnut and gilt 16x20 frame for Egbert Gilbert's soldiers' testimonial. I found George on the Danbury & Norwalk train. He came on an earlier train to Norwalk having walked from Yonkers across to Mount Vernon to take the train. Bell, being at Bethel, she joined us at that place. They both came from the depot up home with me. George took a cup of tea with me. I sold to Walter Bartram an 'Outline of the U.S. Government' while on the train this evening. Henry Hinman moved into our upper rooms today. NOVEMBER 03 TUESDAY - Presidential Election. Snow showed on the ground last evening and did not altogether disappear until about the middle of the forenoon. I worked around home this morning, went up to Oscar Serines's for a half barrel of lime. I then dressed myself, took two of my books, 'Outlines of the U.S. Government' and delivered to Henry Kessler and Rollo Nichols. I then went down and voted. I came home at noon to dinner. After dinner, I cleaned out the woodhouse, cut up some old rubbish, sawed open my old vinegar barrel and found it to be too rotten for any use. I then dressed again and took George and Henry Quien's testimonials down to Saul Kleig's clothing store to be called for. Henry paid me for his at the courthouse - $2.25 - $2.00 for the frame, 15 cents for the card and 10 cents for the nail. I then went down to the courthouse again to hear the vote declared. I was there at 4 o'clock. The polls were closed at 5 o'clock. About 5, the vote was declared. Whole number of votes cast ' 1,654 ' Rep., 889, Dem., 765, Republican majority, 124. I immediately came home and told the news. Henry Hinman paid me $5.00 while I was at tea for his first month's rent. Our Republican majority last spring was 51. George took his trunk and left for Yonkers on the noon train after depositing his vote for Grant and Colfax. After tea, I assisted Henry Hinman to put up window shades and Gussie in putting our small chamber in order, setting up bedstead, etc. I then went into the street, exchanged 2 boxes of paper collars for one at Fleig's, mine not being so good an article and also being an inch too large. I then went to Concert Hall to hear the telegraphic returns form the election. I stayed until nearly 11 o'clock and came home. Walked up with Marshall West. NOVEMBER 04 WEDNESDAY - A pleasant beautiful day. I went to the shop this morning and had one dozen of hats which I finished by noon. There then being no further work, I came home. I delivered 'Outline' this P.M. to Adam Boyd at the sandpaper factory. The cannon was brought out this P.M. and guns were fired over the election. I ran up our folks' flag on their home this P.M. Preparations are being made for a general rejoicing and an illumination over the election of U. S. Grant as president of the United States form the 4th of March next. I went to market in the evening. NOVEMBER 05 THURSDAY - Georgie had the croup last night about 11 o'clock just as we had retired. I got up and went for Mrs. Richards who came over and advised us. We gave him some hive syrup which vomited him and gave immediate relief. He breathed and slept well all night thereafter. I have worked a part of the day I the shop. Not feeling well, I slept on the lounge awhile before tea. I went into the street in the evening and left my watch again with Fanton's man S. G. Bailey, it having stopped. Before leaving the street, there was an alarm of fire. I went sown as far as Saul Wildman's and found that the fire was somewhere on the flats as low down as Bethel and a little west. I returned, helping draw the hook and ladder truck as far as D. P. Nichols & Company. I then bought a pound of crackers and then came home. Robert Cocking came in about 9 o'clock for a roll of salve. Before retiring, I went up to Father Griswold's and prepared in part for illuminating his cupola tomorrow evening, it being a jollification over the election of General Grant as President of the United States. NOVEMBER 06 FRIDAY - Pleasant. I had part of a day's work in the shop. After work, I brought home some partly burned candles of Parmalee for Father Griswold to illuminate his cupola with this evening, it being the occasion of a jollification over the election of President Grant. I put eight of them in each window, making 32 of them in all. I superintended lighting the cupola, also my own house. I hung a picture of General Grant in our parlor window and our folks' flag in another. The Grant and Colfax Legion turned out on parade with torches. After the procession, O. H. Ferry spoke in Concert Hall. I did not attend the speaking. NOVEMBER 07 SATURDAY - I have been to New York. I called on Mason Thorp at his factory at 167 West 26th Street. I wanted to put new frames on his two looking glasses but he does not want it done yet. I made a few frames at the store. Mrs. Fields called at the store and gave me an order for framing. . On the train coming home, I fell in with one named Fitch from Aiken, South Carolina. . He married a girl, by name Lois Coleman, related to Mr. Griffin at Redding Station where he stopped to meet his wife. She has been staying there where he sent her a few weeks ago. He was ordered to leave Aiken by the Ku Klux Klan on Saturday, the 17th of October (I think it was). They gave him until Monday to get away in. He sent his family ahead to Mr. Griffin's. I expected to bring to Mr. Swift ## dozen gold frames 8x10, seal and ribbon pattern, but could not get them in the white soon enough. I took down for Elijah Morris a book on architecture to be called for by his folks at the store. I also took clean clothes for George and left at the store. NOVEMBER 08 SUNDAY - Cloudy most of the day. Gussie went to church in the morning. I went down to Sunday School at noon. It was our monthly concert. I did not stay in the P.M. It commenced to rain as I came home from meeting Gussie wrote to Hattie in New Haven in the evening. NOVEMBER 09 MONDAY - Warm with the appearance of rain in the morning, but it came off pleasant during the day. I went to the shop in the morning (As I went, I took an oil can and a note to Aaron Morehouse in Taylor's Block for Henry Hinman), but the foreman told us that there would be no work for the journeymen until Thursday. I then came home and got in my winter turnips and the rest of my cabbage. I discharged my gun which had been loaded for several weeks and cleaned and oiled it and put it away. In the P.M. at 3 o'clock, I attended a special town meeting at the courthouse to see about exchanging a piece of ground in the rear of Concert Hall for a part of what the steps in front now occupy with the owners of the hall, but the people, believing that both the front and rear, also the grounds on which the hall stands belong to the town and that the stockholders own nothing but the old building that they replaced, refused to grant the request. I have had a headache all day and now feel about down sick. Henry Heinman today gave up and went to bed sick. They fear lung fever. Sunday School Teachers' Meeting in the evening. I attended. As I went , I took my watch again to F. B. Fanton's to his man, S. G. Bailey, who put in a new main spring on the 17th of last month and since then it stops nearly every day. As I came home from Teachers' Meeting, I took a letter from the Post Office for Gussie from her cousin Eliza in California. Before retiring, I copied the minutes of the Sunday School Teachers' Business meeting. NOVEMBER 10 TUESDAY - Misty a part of the day. I have been to New York. Mrs. Randall was on the train this morning going to Pennsylvania. As I went down to the store, I stopped at Phillip Phillip's for two more 'Singing Pilgrims and Musical Leaves Combined'. They are engaged in the Sunday School. I have been very busy in the store today making frames etc. Mr. McDonald's hired boy met me at the station this evening to borrow my gun, I having promised to bring it to him on Mr. McDonald's account as he is going hunting with him. He came home with me and got it. I today was informed that the notice in the paper last week of Henry Young's death was my landlord. Abel Gray, I am told, died yesterday. NOVEMBER 11 WEDNESDAY - Rain until about noon. The locomotive ran off the turntable this morning and delayed us from the regular time ' 6 ## o'clock ' until 4 minutes past 7. . Instead of 80 minutes, the usual time of running to Norwalk, we ran it in 50 minutes including stoppages, the quickest time yet made on this road. J. B. Gibbs of New York, on a wager with Walter Bartram of the Fanton & Bartram Sewing Machine notoriety, started about 10 A.M. from Merritt's Eating House, 78 Ninth Street to walk to Hartford. He carries an American flag with 'Grant and Colfax' on it, also a haversack well stocked with circulars advertising the Fanton & Bartram Sewing Machine Company which he is to circulate in every place through which he passes. He started in the rain with a brass band to escort him up through the city where they left him to go on his way. I sold to Benjamin Ryder a looking glass and delivered to his office on the corner of Broadway and Spring Street. I brought up a half dozen gold 8x10 oval frames seal and ribbon pattern to Swift tonight. I also brought to Louise a No. 2 Longking's Notes. Star light this evening. My birthday. I am 33 years old. NOVEMBER 12 THURSAY - Pleasant but cooler. I have worked in the shop. I took Father Griswold's old broad brimmed hat to the shop with me to cut of the brim and curl it over again and put a spring under the curl to hold it in shape. After tea, I called at Egbert Gilbert's on Division Street to get his testimonial to frame. His wife only knowing where it was and she being out, I did not get it. I went into the street, waited until the mail was opened and then came home. Before retiring, I marked off the Sunday School papers. NOVEMBER 13 FRIDAY - The coldest morning, I think, we have yet had. The day has been pleasant. I had work in the shop until after 3 P.M. I then came home, stopping on the way at Bedient's Photographic Gallery and collected a bill of $4.00 from him for 8x10 rustic frames, a half dozen at $7.50 a dozen. There was 50 cents extra for a carved leaf on top of one of them. As I was going to the shop this morning, Mr. H. Griffing asked me if I could pay my coal bill before December 1st. After work and before tea, I brought some apples down from Father Griswold's barn and put them in my cellar. I got them as pay for picking them for him. There was about a barrel of good picked fruit and a bushel of windfalls. I brought from the shop Father Griswold's hat that I took there for repairs. I brought home my gun from Mc Donald's this morning. His hired boy used it yesterday hunting. I went into the street in the evening. Called at Swift's for $7.50 for half dozen 8x10 gold oval frames scale and ribbon pattern, but he did not pay me. I got my watch from Fanton's and came home. NOVEMBER 14 SATURDAY - Pleasant and a little warmer. I have been to New York. Galen Terry, Mr. Young's agent, he (Young) being dead, called for his rent today. I had a talk with him about the rent, now that Young is dead. So far as I can learn, there is not to be any change in affairs at present, at least. I brought home a piece of bacon with me from the city. Gussie met me at the depot to have me do a little marketing with her. I brought the small looking glass with me for Homer White. NOVEMBER 15 SUNDAY - Pleasant. After breakfast, I went down to church with the bundle of Sunday School papers and returned. Gussie attended in the forenoon. I left Georgie upstairs with Anna and went down to Sunday School. Gussie stayed and came home with me after school. After tea, I went down to church to look for my handkerchief which I have lost somewhere. In the meantime, Gussie went with Georgie over to Andrew Williams in Montgomery Street to see Mrs. Bradley. Mrs. Cocking called in just before meeting time and I walked down to church with her and Louise. NOVEMBER 16 - MONDAY - Pleasant. Before breakfast, I wrote to William at the store ordering a half dozen rustic frames for Bedient the photographer here over Gillette's store. I had work in the shop today. Before tea, I commenced raking leaves off my dooryard. Hattie Mills came in while we were at tea. She took tea with us and then spent the evening. I went into the street in the evening where Bedient saw me and was in a hurry for his frames. I wrote again to William before retiring. NOVEMBER 17 TUESDAY - The weather has been more cloudy today and threatens storms. Before breakfast, I went down and mailed two letters, one to William at the store and one to George at Yonkers asking him for money on what he owes me. I have worked in the shop a part of the day. In the P.M., I finished raking off my dooryard and covered my strawberry beds with the leaves. I then dressed and carried over to George Starr and Daniel each a book which they subscribed for, (Outlines of the U. S. Government'. I did not get my pay, George being out and Daniel not having any money with him. Before tea, I went up to Father Griswold's and took the looking glass out from there old two story gilt frame preparatory to taking it with me tomorrow to New York to regild. While we were at tea, Amos Purdy came for another roll of salve. I went to market in the evening. Gussie attended the Temperance Mass meeting with Anna Heinman in the evening. NOVEMBER 18 WEDNESDAY - To New York. I was late; took a cold breakfast and ran to catch the train. I had just time to stop at D. M. Benedict's and get a pair of rubbers on credit. It was raining so that I need them as my boots were old and leaked. I took an old style looking glass frame of Mother Griswold's down with me to regild. I spent a great part of the day at the store making frames. It rained all the forenoon but very little in the P.M.I squared and framed in walnut a small piece of looking glass (broken) from the old frame I am to regild and brought up with me to Fanny. I also brought a half dozen 8x10 rustic frames for Mr. Bedient the photographer. I left them at Simon's Shoe store. I found Louise at the house when I got home. She stayed to tea, Gussie having gone to the Aid Society. NOVEMBER 19 THURSDAY - Pleasant. I have worked in the shop. I took with me to the shop an 'Outlines of the U.S. Government' for George Sherman which he took and paid me for - $2.00. I have had work all day. On my way home, I stopped at Bedient's and collected a bill for ## dozen rustics - $3.50 After tea, I took our 8x10 frame, 1 ## Walnut with 1 inch gilt inside and gold mounted and corners and sold from it one for sample to Hamelin, to Couch and Bedient. I bought some fish at market and came home. While in the street, I paid D. M. Benedict, $1.00 on account for rubbers bought yesterday morning. NOVEMBER 20 FRIDAY - Cloudy during the day. I worked in the shop until noon then came home and spent the P.M. in preparing mortar for laying up my cellar wall, getting a few stones, etc. Before tea, I went into the street, mailed a letter to Mrs. Holmes at Essex informing her of the finding of her boy's overcoat in the car at Norwalk last Wednesday. I also mailed for Gussie a Danbury Times to Harriet in New Haven. I called at Swift's and got my pay for the ## dozen gold 8x10 ovals, scale and ribbon pattern I sod him $7.50. After tea, (Bell being here) I went up home with Bell and Louise to see Father about helping me repair my cellar wall. I brought home a small basket of my turnips. NOVEMBER 21 SATURDAY - Cloudy and threatened storm all day. I have been to New York. I only ate about half of my breakfast today. I had to run to catch the train. I took down and undershirt to George today. In reply to a note I wrote to him on Tuesday asking him for money, he wrote to William at the store and enclosed $15.00 which I found there today. I went to Philip Philip's today for a 'Singing Pilgrim and Leaves' for Minnie Vintz. I have been pretty busy making frames. I have had a severe headache, but after taking a nap in the New Haven cars, I felt better. I brought home a lot of clock keys, hand bells and springs from the shop to sell to T. B. Fanton. Isaac Jennings sat in the seat with me from New York. Bell was here when I came from the cars and got my tea for me, Gussie being downtown on an errand. I paid Galen Terry $40.00 today on November rent today for Henry Young's estate. NOVEMBER 22 SUNDAY - Cloudy most of the day. A little blustery and threatens snow. I went down to Sunday School at noon. A collection was taken to send to the Five Points Mission to aid in getting up a Thanksgiving dinner for them. $16.93 was taken up, $9.93 from the main school and $7.00 from the Infant Class box which for over a month they have been collecting for that purpose. Gussie came down to the Sunday School and went to the Baptist church in the P.M. to hear the funeral sermon for Pierce Abbott's wife preached by their new preacher, Mr. Hubbard. I came home after school to count and put up in packages the money taken for the Five Points. After tea, I went over to George Starr's with the money as he wants to send it tomorrow. NOVEMBER 23 MONDAY - Pleasant but cool. I have worked all day in the shop. Father has worked for me today rebuilding a piece of my cellar wall. He took tea with Mother Griswold, he being up there at that time for some rotten specked apples. She persuaded him to do so. After tea, I wrote to George trying to get more money from him on his old debt to help me out on December 1st. I went to F. B. Fanton's and let him have 34 clock keys, about a dozen springs, three bells, three pendulums and about a dozen hands for $3.00 in trade. I took a box of 10 packs of envelopes, $1.00, and ten quires of paper, $1.25, one dozen pencils, 40 cents and 15 rubber heads for pencils, 35 cents. I mailed the letter to George, bought a broom for Gussie and came home, walking up with Marshall West. Before retiring, I took some samples of wall molding over to Mr. Pond's for him to take and show to his assistant teacher, Mr. Holmes who wants some to make into frames himself. I took Marshall's hat home with me and heated the brim and set up the curl anew for him and returned it in a few minutes. NOVEMBER 24 TUESDAY - Cool but pleasant. I have worked in the shop. I took Mr. Pond's hat with me to the shop to set up the curl a little more for him. I came home about the middle of the P.M. and cleaned my gun and took it down to Benjamin Rolfe who wants to borrow it on Thanksgiving Day. I received a letter from William at the store stating that Sigler, Wurzberger & Ferguson in Mercer Street have been burned out. Four frames of mine at Wurzberger's to be mounted with composition corners were also burned. Henry Crofut's daughter Delia was married to one Davenport of the firm of Croft & Knapp at Norwalk. Bell came down this evening and brought a hen and 9 chickens just hatched, a present to us if we will raise them. I wrote to William and mailed it in the evening, directing Father Griswold's looking glass to be completed and ready for me on Thursday. I went to market in the evening and took an order from Swift for three frames. NOVEMBER 25 WEDNESDAY - Another beautiful forenoon, but before night, it clouded up. The wind changed to the south and at 4 o'clock, every indication of a stormy day tomorrow, but in the evening, it looked less like a storm. I have worked in the shop. We got paid off today, our pay last Saturday having been deferred until today in view of Thanksgiving tomorrow. I got a damaged hat for nothing and trimmed and finished it. It is the new style, 'Alpine'. After tea, I went to market and brought home a chicken that Gussie engaged of Eli Stone. I waited until about 9 o'clock for the mail, the train being that much behind. I called at Charles Andrews by consent of E. S. Davis and engaged him to furnish what additional pipe is needed and turn it through the thimble into the lecture room and enter the furnace pipe, the present arrangement causing the stove in the Librarian's Room to smoke so that we cannot stand it. I brought a letter for Fanny from the Post Office from Elyria, Ohio from Annie and the children. NOVEMBER 26 THURSDAY - Thanksgiving Day. Rain in the forenoon, clearing away at noon. No shop work. I have been to New York. I went down in the morning and returned at 3 ## P.M. by the 12 ## train from New York. The store has been closed, but I called at William's home at 16 Bedford Street and he went over with me and put a looking glass in the frame of Father Griswold's which I have been regilding and went down expressly for. I left $10.00 with William to do business with. Emma Bartram, the school teacher, went to New York this morning, Jennie Fairweather. She was on her way to Bridgeport. Ambrose Hill was also on the train coming from Brooklyn. Gussie and Georgie took dinner with Father Griswold. Dinner being over when I returned, I ate mine alone after which I set the other looking glass in the fame I brought from New York(it being a two story glass) and left it ready to hang up. I wrote another plain letter to George soliciting money. I went over and read it to Mr. Pond and then went into the street and mailed it. I called at Swift's, got my Harpers Weekly and came home. Before retiring, I mended a fancy black walnut bracket for Marshall West. NOVEMBER 27 FRIDAY - Pleasant. I have worked all day in the shop. My father and family and Gussie's father and family were all here to dinner this P.M. having work in the shop, I stayed until night and ate my dinner alone when I came home. Father and Mother stayed in the evening. I went to the Post Office in the evening. I paid Father $2.00 for mending my cellar wall. NOVEMBER 28 SATURDAY - Cold last night. A white frost this morning. Sarah Bouton, her son Edgar and his wife were on the train this morning going home to Georgetown, they having been up to John Bouton's keeping Thanksgiving. Alfred Targett went to New York this morning also. I have been very busy at the store today making frames. William yesterday rented the upper floor over the store to a man and wife and two children. Van Orden moves out on December 1st. Clark Beers' wife and child came up this evening. They have been down to bury her mother. I bought a passe partout and some mats up for Swift from Handler's. I also brought up the small passe partouts for Alfred Targett. I bought a hymn book for Hattie Brockett at the Book Room. When I arrive home this evening, I found Mother Griswold, Mary Vintz and Louise at the house. NOVEMBER 29 SATURDAY - Sunshine. Some clouds and a little blustery. Gussie did not go to church during the day. I went down at noon to Sunday School and returned again after the session. Through my efforts during last week, we have had the stove pipe changed in the Librarian's Room and carried through the partition to the furnace pipe in the Lecture Room. As it was before entering the chimney in the room, it smoked so that we could have no fire. Now it is remedied, I think, as it burned well and made our room comfortable today. After tea, I drew up anew the Infant Class from Fanny's book into mine. I then went over to Hattie Brockett's with the hymn book I bought for her in New York, a present to her mother. I stayed a short time and then returned about 6 o'clock. NOVEMBER 30 MONDAY - A beautiful morning before daylight but nearly all day it has been cloudy and cool. I have been to New York. Reuben W. Holmes was on the train this morning going to new Haven. He was on the train again this evening going home. I had some conversation with him about buying me out in New York. Jennie Fairweather got on the train this morning at Ridgefield on her way to her school in Yonkers. I had her company down. I helped her off the car at 30th Street while they were in motion and walked with her towards the Hudson River railroad depot as far as 6th Avenue where I left her and took a car down to my store. I have been quite busy at the store making frames. In the P.M., I went down to Tibbels', 37 Park Row, for some Judd's Lessons for the Sunday School and some reward books for the Infant Class. I took a 4th Avenue car from there up to the depot and came home. My commutation tickets expire today from here to New York.
1868-11
Horace Purdy Journal December 1868 Entry
11pgs
DECEMBER 01 TUESDAY - Cold and but little sunshine; it has frozen all day. There were a few flakes of snow to be seen this morning, and I thus looked for snowstorm before night. I have worked in the shop. I took two small passe-partouts to Alfred Targett that he engaged of me. He paid me for them ' 50 cents. As I came home from work, I stopped at Benjamin Rolfe's and got my gun and shot pouch and powder flask which I lent to him on Thanksgiving Day. Though it has threatened snow during the day, the evening has been pleasant, the moon shining brightly. Gussie went to market in the evening. I sent to the Post office by her, four soldier's records to mail to George. I laced some new straps on my old boots before retiring. DECEMBER 02 MONDAY - Cloudy and cold again today. I have worked in the shop. The boys have been skating on the creek below the factory today for the first time this season. After tea, I went down to Swift's for the Sunday School papers, went home and marked them off. After the arrival of the mail, I went down to the Office, Louise staying in the house, Gussie being at the Sewing Society at S. G. Baileys'. DECEMBER 03 THURSDAY - Pleasant but still cold. The ground has been for the past 3 days frozen very hard and has not in the same time thawed even in the middle of the day. I have worked in the shop. Gussie has been up home today with Georgie. She drew him in his old carriage. She left him there with mother and took her muff down to Mrs. John Carpenter to be made over. I received a letter this P.M. from William at the store, stating that Daniel has not yet returned from his Thanksgiving visit in the country. He promised to return on Monday, but has not yet arrived. Mr. Pond came in the evening and we had a long talk about my New York business, the prospect of selling, etc. We concluded that I had better drop a line to Reuben W. Holmes to meet me at the depot on Saturday morning and go to the city and look at my business, which I did and l mailed it when I went down to market. This is the eleventh anniversary of my marriage. DECEMBER 04 FRIDAY - Not quite so cold I think. Cloudy and indicative of snow. I had work in the shop until after 2 P.M. I then borrowed $80.00 of Mr. Crofut. I took his check and went to the Pahquioque Bank and drew it. I then came home and brought our hen and 8 chickens (which Mother gave me) from Father Griswold's woodshed down to our woodhouse. I took down the outside tin leader from the sink upstairs and cleaned it out, it being stopped up in the lead pipe leading from the sink to the outside leader. Gussie bought 10 bushels of charcoal today. While we were in the woodhouse with the chickens, Reuben Holmes called to tell me in answer to a note I wrote to him last evening that he would go to New York tomorrow and look at my store with a view of buying me out. After tea, I went down to the church with lesson books, etc. Henry Hinman went down with me to get our old Sunday School Hymn Books for the Young Men's Christian Association which we have given them. I went to the Post Office and to Crofut's for 6 pounds of cracked corn for chickens and came home. I then went over to the school house with Mr. Pond for some maps he wants to send by me to 654 Broadway, Charles Scribner's & Company which he is returning. DECEMBER 05 SATURDAY - The ground was covered with snow this morning and it has snowed and rained at times all day. I have been to New York. Reuben W. Holmes, who promised to go with me to the city today and look at my store, did not go. The snowstorm doubtless prevented him from coming to the depot so early this morning. I took down to Charles Scribner's on Broadway near Bleeker Street for Mr. Pond some maps which he bought a while ago and exchanged for some others which he has received. I also took some mats down for Swift which Handler made for him and made them wrong. Harriet came into the store about 3 P.M. and brought some pictures for me to frame. She left a bundle of clothing for me to bring to Bell. The trains being blocked at 42nd Street, I left them and went across to 3rd Avenue and took the horse car. This is the second snow but the first that promised sleighing. My commutation having run out, I paid my fare on the Danbury & Norwalk railroad, but on the New Haven, the conductor said nothing to me about my ticket so I did nothing and paid no passage. DECEMBER 06 SUNDAY - Pleasant in the morning but cloudy in the P.M. with the appearance of snow. I went down to church between 11 and 12 A.M. I performed my customary duties in Sunday School and then came home to stay with Georgie, Gussie having gone to the afternoon meeting. I shoveled my paths in the yard this morning, leaving the sidewalk until after tea this P.M. There were 6 inches of snow on the ground this morning. Yesterday P.M. and today has been our first sleighing. Emily Anderson's father, Daniel Anderson, died this morning about 6 o'clock with typhoid fever. DECEMBER 07 MONDAY - Cloudy last night and this morning, it commenced snowing about the middle of the forenoon. It turned to rain before night. I have worked in the shop until 3 P.M. Mr. Daniel Anderson was buried this P.M. at 1 o'clock. Gussie, with her folks, went. George Starr sent his carriage and man to bring home Mother Griswold, Louise and Gussie. A special Sunday School Teachers' meeting to make arrangements for a Sunday School festival exhibition or something of the kind during the holidays. It still being stormy, which with the melting snow made it so bad that but few were present, nothing definite was done. I wrote and mailed a letter to William at the store. An old woman, a distressed object, wife of Simeon Heddy, was today run over and killed by Isaac W. Ives' double team which was drawing lumber. The horses were running away. The driver was also hurt. DECEMBER 08 TUESDAY - Clouds, squalls and sunshine. It did not freeze any last night. I worked in the shop in the forenoon; there being but one dozen, I then came home. Susan Brayman was here to dinner. I went down to the church in the P.M. and got one of the old Sunday School drawers, which were formerly under the seats, and brought home and made some cleats for it, preparatory to putting it up under my bench at the shop. I went into the street in the evening. I waited for the mail and came home with letters for Mr. Pond and one for Bell which I carried up home to her in order that I might hear something from George as the letter was from him. He tells Bell that I must be paid $50.00 per month until I am paid what he owes me, the payments to commence with January, 1869. I got one dozen yeast cakes of Mother for Mrs. Pond and came home. DECEMBER 09 WEDNESDAY - Pleasant but windy. I went to the depot this morning, intending that if Reuben Holmes of King Street came, to go with him to New York to see my store. He did not come, so I went to the shop and worked until about 2 P.M. and came home. Gussie went to the Sewing Society at David Osborne's. I went to the Post Office. Louise stayed with Georgie until I returned. She went home before Gussie returned. DECEMBER 10 THURSDAY - Pleasant but very cold. It has not thawed during the day, though the sun has shone. I went to the depot again this morning to go to New York if Holmes came to go with me, but he did not come, so I went to the shop again today. We had but one dozen each. I finished mine before dinner and came home. After the train left this morning, I went up to Mr. Williams, the Railroad treasurer, and left $45.00 with him to end to New York for my N.Y. & N. H. commutation ticket, the last 6 months of my year ending May 31, 1869. I wrote for the P.M. mail a letter to William at the store. I mailed it and did some trading, molasses, raisins, etc. and came home. In the evening, I went into the street to get my commutation ticket from Mr. Williams which I expected this evening, but did not get it. When I returned, I sorted over my apples for Gussie to prepare for mince pies. DECEMBER 11 FRIDAY - It is still very cold weather with appearance of snow.I went to the depot again this morning, but not seeing Holmes, I went to the shop. Williams, the railroad ticket agent had not as I expected got my commutation ticket for New York. They said my name had been omitted and they wanted my old ticket sent on before they would forward the new one. I left it with Mr. Williams and he gave me a card on which certificate that I had paid him for the ticket which will pass me for the NY & NH Railroad until I get the new ticket. I had work until 2 P.M. when I came home with the headache. Albert Marsh cashed my account and he will draw it tomorrow in my stead. Having the headache, I stayed home in the evening and let Gussie and Louise go to market. Before retiring, I went over to Mr. Pond's and got a list of school books he wants me to get for him tomorrow in New York. DECEMBER 12 SATURDAY - Pleasant but still cold. I have been to New York. I bought some school books for Mr. Pond at 42 John Street. I brought up mats for Swift also, 1 16x20 rustic and gilt and 1 11x14 rustic and gilt. I brought 4 sample frames with mounted gold corners made of 1 inch beaded walnut with one inch inside for Swift and Hamelin Bedient & Couch. After tea, I went back into the street to George Hull's for a new Northern Light Stove grate. I came up West Street with Isaac Jennings, helping him carry some store fixtures. Bell came up from Bethel on the evening train. She helped me carry some of my packages as far as D. P. Nichols' store where I met Mr. Pond and Miss Camp. He then took a part of my bundles. After tea, I went into the street again for a new grate to the Northern Light. DECEMBER 13 SUNDAY - A beautiful winter day; a little warmer. Before breakfast, I let the fire out in the sitting room and put in the new grate I got last night at George Hull's. I went down to Sunday School at noon. It was our monthly concert or prayer meeting. After school, I came home, leaving Gussie to stay in the P.M. Georgie was upstairs with Henry Hinman until I came home. Gussie went up home on Deer Hill to prayer meeting at 5 o'clock. We all stayed at home in the evening. Sturdivant's barn was burned this P.M. over to Beaverbrook. DECEMBER 14 MONDAY - Not so much sunshine today but warmer the wind being south. I have worked in the shop. I finished my work about 2 P.M. I came home and took the 8x10 1/12 beaded walnut frames with one inch gilt inside and gold mounted corners to Hamelin, Couch and Benedict. I had one for Swift also, but it was damaged so I brought it home again to take back with me to repair. I got a vial of acid for soldering at Charles Hull's. I called on Williams at the railroad depot to see if my commutation ticket had come from New York. It had, but it being in the ticket office and that not being open, I am to get it the next time I go down. I attended our regular Sunday School Teachers' meeting this evening at which arrangements were made for a Christmas gathering at the church, a Christmas tree, etc. As I came home from the said meeting, it was snowing a little. DECEMBER 15 TUESDAY - A small snow squall; aside from that, the day has been pleasant and warmer than for some days past. It thawed considerably in the middle of the day. Before breakfast, I wrote to Reuben Holmes of King Street to see if he intended to go to New York and look at my store. I mailed it as I went to the shop. Before night, he called at the house to say that at present he had business and that I need not depend on him as a purchaser for my store. I came from work and found Gussie down with a sick headache. I got my tea myself and cleared away the table. I then wrote to William at the store and went into the street and mailed it. I then saw George Ryder about the time of the First Church holding their Christmas festival for the Sunday School. I called to see what Potter would charge for a piano for our use at the Sunday School gathering on Christmas Eve. I then called on Brother Burch and communicated what I had done to him and we made some arrangements about purchasing the candy for our cornucopia for the occasion. DECEMBER 16 WEDNESDAY - Cloudy most of the day; a little flurry of snow. I have worked in the shop. I started early to mail a letter to George from the Post Office. I went to the depot and got my commutation ticket for the 6 months ended May 31, 1869. Mr. Williams, the ticket agent here, sent for it for me. From the depot, I went directly to the shop arriving there before daylight. I had work all day in the shop. Gussie has been at the church this P.M. arranging for the Oyster Supper this evening under the auspices of the Soldiers Aid Society. I got my tea and Georgie's and we were eating when she got home. After tea, she returned again to be in attendance during the evening. I, feeling too poor, did not go. About 8 o'clock, I went to the Post Office and mailed a letter to William at the store to have him see some of the leading confectioners as to the price of mixed candy by the 40 or 50 lbs. I want it for the Sunday School Christmas Festival. I helped (after returning from the Post Office) Mr. Pond build a snow shovel in his back yard. DECEMBER 17 THURSDAY - Icy in the morning from the little rain they had last evening. It has been warmer and has thawed more today than for some time past. We have had but one dozen in the shop today. I finished mine before dinner and came home. In the P.M., Gussie went down to the church to help clean up from last evening's Oyster Supper. I stayed with Georgie and fixed the lock to the outside door which goes upstairs and put a lock on the drawer I have been making to put under my bench at the shop. I went into the street in the evening. Received a letter from William. I walked up from the street with Charles Purdy and talked with him about going to my store in New York. DECEMBER 18 FRIDAY - Pleasant with the exception of a snow squall in the middle of the day. I have worked in the shop. Albert Marsh cashed my account as I shall not be here tomorrow when they pay off. After tea, I went into the street. I waited for the mail, then went over to the church (where Mr. Lockwood was singing with the children preparatory to Christmas) to see Brother Burch about the candy for the cornucopias for the Christmas tree. DECEMBER 19 SATURDAY - Pleasant but cold. I have been to New York. I took back to the store one of the 8x10 1" gilt and mounted corners for repairs, the corners being broken by a fall. It is one of the 4 I brought up for Hamelin Bedient , Couch and Swift for samples. I called at the book room for the Sunday School Journals, also at Bigelow & Main's 425 Browne Street for 2 fresh laurels for Johnny Holmes and ___Starr. Also at Phillips' for a 'Singing Pilgrim and Musical Leaves Combined' for another Sunday School scholar. I went up to 111 West 30th Street to see Mrs. Field about framing her pictures. She was not at home. I discharged Daniel J. Minnerly, my gilder. I paid Galen Terry my December rent. I called to see Benjamin Ryder about framing advertising placards. I brought an 8x10 oval gold frame with national emblems, eagles, etc., to Swift. After I had my tea, Gussie and Louise went over to Robert Cocking for some celery. I marked off Sunday School Journals before retiring. DECEMBER 20 SUNDAY - Stormy. A little snow about 8 A.M. It soon turned to rain which froze as it came making it very icy. Just at night, it stopped freezing but continued to rain. I went down to Sunday School at noon and came home again after the session. Gussie left Georgie up to Mother Griswold's and came down before school was out and stayed to prayer meeting in the P.M. Mr. Pond subscribed this morning to the Sunday School Journal; I brought the back numbers to him form the Sunday School. DECEMBER 21 MONDAY - Pleasant. I have worked in the shop. I finished my work at noon. After coming home, I went into the street again to look at a stove at J. M. Ives, contemplating an exchange of the one we have in the Librarian's Rom at the church, it being too short for the wood we have to burn. I called at Bedient's Photograph Gallery for a frame I sold to him. The gilt inside having two shades, I am to put in new. In the evening, I read in 'Saturday Night', an advertisement for agents by W. Chichester, 266 Broadway, New York, sample and terms sent free. I wrote to William at the store also. Gussie collected a bill of $7.25 for me in the evening from Swift for frames. DECEMBER 22 TUESDAY - Pleasant. I mailed a letter this morning in time for the mail. From the Office, I went to the shop and took with me a drawer to put up under my bench which I did. I was at the shop before daylight. I had work nearly all day. While we were at tea, Mrs. Bradley and her sister, Mrs. Williams came in to see if I had any pictures to sell. I took Mrs. Williams down to the church with me to look at one I had in the Librarian's Room. I sold it to her; rather she says she will come for it before Christmas. I brought it home with me and cleaned it up for her at my house awaiting Sunday. As we came from the church with the picture, I took an evergreen branch form among the greens brought for Christmas by Brother Bartram and brought it home to make a Christmas tree for Georgie. DECEMBER 23 WEDNESDAY - Snow this morning, but before noon, it came off pleasant. I have worked in the shop. The hat I yesterday finished for Daniel Minnerly, I got trimmed today and brought it home with me. I went down to church in the evening to see how they were progressing with trimming it with greens. I went up to Fanton's Jewelry and Book Store and borrowed until next time I go to New York, A 'Singing Pilgrim and Musical Leaves' for George Davis. I promised one tomorrow which I hope will come. DECEMBER 24 THURSDAY - Pleasant but cold. I worked in the shop until noon and then came home and built a box for Georgie's sled to draw him down to the church to the Christmas festival. I went down and mailed a letter to William at the store and then went to church and assisted in preparing for the festival in the evening. I borrowed George Starr's horse and sleigh and took a letter up to Bell. After tea, I went to the barber's and got my hair cut. From there I went to the church to tend door. We took in $19.20 at the door. The festival passed off pleasantly. Charles Hoyt was dressed for Santa Claus and made fun for all. I borrowed a piano stool of Potter for use at the church. Before retiring, we put our Christmas presents on the tree, dressing it for tomorrow morning and retired. DECEMBER 25 FRIDAY - Christmas Day. We rose late. I went over before breakfast to see Mr. Pond's Christmas tree. While we were eating Mr. Pond came over to see ours. About 10 o'clock. I went down to the church and took the piano stool which I borrowed home to Mr. Potter. I called at Brother Burch's for the candy bill, also for the printing programmes, songs, etc., after which I went to the Jeffersonian Office and paid $6.00. I then went to the Post Office and over to Hamelin's store where I helped him join some frames. I told him of Almark Root (?) to collar (?) his oil for walnut frames. I had a talk in the store with Sylvester Harris about buying my store in New York. I came home about 2 P.M. and we took dinner with Father Griswold. He told me to pay the interest on the note in the Danbury Savings bank up to April next at which time he would see that the note was paid. After dinner, which was about 3 o'clock, I went to Swift's for the Sunday School Advocates. From there, I went over to George Starr's and paid him $15.00 for the 50 lbs. of candy used at the Christmas festival with which he sends a draft to Snow in new Haven for the same. I then, after staying and talking with him about an hour, went to the church and got Father Griswold's old coat which Charles Hoyt wore last night as a part of dress last night when he assumed the role of Santa Claus. After Georgie was put to bed, Gussie and I went over to see Mr. Pond's Christmas tree, and then over to Mr. Seifert's which was lighted with tapers in true German style. Then Gussie started out to see Mrs. Bradley at Andrew Williams' in Montgomery Street. Mr. Pond gave me $17.00 with which to get 3 Chromos (note - Chromolithographs) for him in New York for the school house. DECEMBER 26 SATURDAY - Pleasant. I have been to New York I got 2 more 'Singing Pilgrims and Musical leaves Combined' at Phillip Phillips'. Also a Discipline at the Book Room. I have orders at the church for them. I delivered a letter for H. B. Fanton to Fred Lewis in a shirt store upstairs in Broadway between 8th and 9th Street. I bought 3 chromos for Mr. Pond, 'The Old Oaken Bucket', 'Home, Sweet Home', and 'Sunlight in Winter'. I am to frame them for him which will take about a week. I took Daniel Minnerly back into my employ today. One of the 'Singing Pilgrims', I brought him, I left at Fanton's Store for one I borrowed of him last week. The other is for Sylvester Harris. The Discipline is for Widow Curtis. I brought up the frame for Mr. Bedient which I took down this morning to change the inside. I left it at Hamelin's Store for him. Louise met me at the depot. She came expecting Fanny on the train from New Haven, but she did not come. The Christmas tree was emptied today and the toys given to Georgie and tonight every toy that is capable of being destroyed by him is broken up by him. Before retiring, I went over to Mr. Pond's and reported to him what I had done concerning his chromos. He paid me the balance of the cost of them - $11.00. I commenced a letter to William just before retiring. DECEMBER 27 SUNDAY - Very cold last night and this morning. It has stormed most of the day (snow). I went down to Sunday School at noon after which I came home to stay with Georgie while Gussie stayed to the afternoon meeting. The brood of small chickens we have had in the woodhouse, I this evening, put into the cellar as several of them have died; we think frozen to death. I went to church in the evening. As I went, I mailed the letter I mast evening wrote to William at the store in New York. I came home with Louise. It is warmer this evening. There has only been about an inch of snow fallen during the day. Eleven years ago this night, brother John died. DECEMBER 28 MONDAY - Pleasant and quite warm so that the little snow that had fallen yesterday packed nicely and the sleighing is splendid. I finished my work in the shop before dinner. I stopped on my way home at the car shop to see if William Warren was ready for the book he subscribed for in November, 'Outline of the United States Government'. I had some talk with him about Lottie Keeler's intended husband buying my store in New York. In the P.M., I put Georgie on his sled and drew him up to see Mother Purdy. We stayed a short time and then returned. I brought 10 yeast cakes down for Mrs. Lawson. I then went into the street and collected $1.80 from Bedient the artist. DECEMBER 29 TUESDAY - Cloudy and smoky in the morning. I have worked in the shop. It has snowed apart of the day. In the evening, it was clear and mild, a lovely evening. Edward R. Hunniston, a shop mate, gave me his wife's picture in a frame and directed me to stop at William Bedient's Gallery and get one of himself and frame the both in a pair of frames I had at home, which I did and carried them to Jerry Bonds in the evening when he promises to call for them. I wrote to William at the store and mailed it. I received a bill from D. P. Nichols for the balance of my account, $24.61. DECEMBER 30 WEDNESDAY - I have worked in the shop until about 2 P.M. I cut off a brim for Marshall West, bound and recurled it and delivered it to his store (Mr. Gillette's'). I called on William Warren at the Railroad Paint Shop to enquire if Lottie Wheeler's intended husband had yet returned from New Milford. Williams thinks he may buy my store in New York. I received a letter from William at the store requesting me to come down tomorrow, there being so much work on hand, they want my help. Before tea, I went to the Post Office. Father Griswold and Fanny came home from New York by the evening train. Before retiring, I went up home and killed a chicken for Louise. Fanny bought some toys for Georgie. DECEMBER 31 FRIDAY - Muggy again today; no sunshine but pleasant in the evening. I have been to New York. Marshall West went also on business for Mr. Gillette. I have been hard at work in the store all day. I finished Mr. Pond's 3 chromo frames but did not have time to put them up to bring home. A large fire in 23rd Street near 6th Avenue. Horses burned to death. I paid Mr. Williams the ticket agent $20.00 more this morning toward my commutation ticket for 6 months ending May 31, 1869. I have paid $8.00 since December 1st in regular tickets which per agreement with Williams goes towards the commutation which now leaves $10.00 due. Father Griswold this evening let me have $29.00 with which to pay 3 month's interest on $1,200 at the Danbury Savings Bank. I being out of money, he advanced it to me.
1868-12
Horace Purdy Journal January 1869 Entry
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JANUARY 01 FRIDAY - A severe blowing snow storm. Except early in the morning, it was all day hard round snow mixed with hail. It packs so hard as it comes that one can walk on top of the snow, it being hard as earth. Where it does give way under foot, it is like sand. I have worked in the shop. As Joe Allen went home to dinner, I sent $24.00 by him to pay interest on a $1,200 note in the Danbury Savings Bank. It was closed. I left work before 4 o'clock and found it closed also. In the evening, I gave Father Griswold money to pay it for me tomorrow. I went into the street in the evening and mailed letters for Father Griswold. In the P. M., I bought a pair of rubber boots of the Benedict brothers - $3.25. Mr. Pond came in this evening after I returned from the street and we looked at our accounts together to straighten things up for the commencement of the New Year. He helped me mend Georgie's toy horse and cart. I made preparations for going to New York in the morning and then retired. Edwin Harris lost a child this morning, 3 weeks old. JANUARY 02 SATURDAY - Cloudy, but no storm in the forenoon. A little rain in the P.M. and snow in the evening. I have been to New York. I took four of Bartram & Fanton's placards for advertising their sewing machines to frame as samples. I took them from Bartram's office in Broadway near 13th Street. I packed three chromos, 'The Old Oaken Bucket', 'Home, Sweet Home' and 'Sunlight in Winter' and brought them home in frames for Mr. Pond. I broke one of the ornamental corners getting on to a horse car and shall probably have to take it back for repairs. Charles Hayes came home with me from the city. He is going to work for Joseph Ives. Mother Griswold, Louise, Gussie and Georgie went up to Father Griswold's today on a surprise. They took some good things and made a New Year's dinner. Father Griswold paid my interest at the Danbury Savings Bank for 3 months - $24.00. JANUARY 03 SUNDAY - A pleasant, mild day. I shoveled paths before breakfast. I went down to Sunday School at noon. Charles Hayes went with me. We returned after school to stay with Georgie for Gussie to stay to afternoon meeting. Our dinner was late, about 5 o'clock, after which Charlie and I took a walk. We returned home in time to go to evening meeting. I wrote to William inquiring about my diary which I think I left at the store yesterday, also informing him of Charlie's sucess in getting a situation with Joseph Ives. JANUARY 04 MONDAY - Foggy and a fine rain a part of the time. I have worked in the shop. As I went to work, I went with Charles Hayes to Joseph Ives' to show him where he is to work. After coming from the shop, I shoveled snow off the walk in front of my place and that of Father Griswold. Dr. Bulkely came just at night to see Fannie and Georgie. He left his bill for me - $13.88, but I could not pay it. I went into the street in the evening and having found the piece of the $2.00 bill which I let Dr. Brown, Postmaster, have on Friday at 30 cent discount, I matched it and he paid me the 30 cents discount. A concert this evening under the auspices of the ladies of the Episcopal Church. Father Griswold, having complimentary tickets, Gussie and Louise went to it. January 05 TUESDAY - Cloudy, misty. I have worked in the shop. As I went, I took our wash boiler to J. W. Ives for a new bottom. I finished my shop work about noon, came home and helped Gussie change our bedstead with the one upstairs. I then went down to Ives' for the wash boiler I left there this morning for repairs. JANUARY 06 WEDNESDAY - Colder. I have worked in the shop. While getting Georgie down home from Mother Griswold's to tea, I took a slide on the crust with him. In the evening, Charles Hayes and I went downtown together. I bought a wild rabbit and brought home. It was frozen hard this morning, but it thawed out and was soft and spongy during the day. I have today finished two dozen vicuna, 4 dozen Zepher full stiff jack up California hats. JANUARY 07 THURSDAY - Pleasant and warm. It has thawed considerably making it wet and disagreeable getting around during the middle of the day. I completed my work for the week about 2 P.M., I having earned $12.00, the amount of work allowed for this week. Egbert Marsh cashed my account as I am intending to go to New York tomorrow and perhaps on Saturday also. I brought an Alpine hat up to Marshall West at Gillette's store, but it being too small, I returned with it to the factory again. He will wait a few days and perhaps get another style. One of my employers, Rollo Nichols, gave me $2.00 which he borrowed of me last Saturday P.M. at the 27th Street Depot in New York. Before tea, I went over to Mr. Pond's and took the 'Sunlight in Winter' chromo from its frame (which I damaged in bringing from New York) and wound it with paper preparatory to taking it to New York tomorow for repairs. After tea, Charles Hayes and I went downtown. I did some marketing. After we returned, I went over to Mr. Pond's and he made out a list of books which he wanted me to get for him in New York tomorrow. He gave me $55.00 with which to get the things and pay a bill of $41.00 at Babbitt & Elliott's at 42 John Street. The books, Sherwood's Spellers, I am to get at the corner of John and Williams. JANUARY 08 FRIDAY - Pleasant and warm. I have been to New York. I took down Mr. Pond's frame for a chromo for repairs. I bought 5 gallons of ink for him at Babbitt & Elliott's at $1.50 per gallon. Can cost $1.50, making a bill of $9.00. I found William sick with a quinsy sore throat. Today being his first at the store since last Saturday and Dan having been left in the store, business has been neglected. Dan, having an offer in Hudson Street for more wages, threatens to leave me. I fell in with George Benjamin's uncle George on the carriage coming home. He was formerly a hatter in Bethel. He is now a farmer out west doing well. He has not been in these parts in many years. JANUARY 09 SATURDAY - pleasant but warm. The snow has wasted fast. The streets have been very wet and muddy. I have been to New York. I took a half dozen Sherwood's Spellers and definers for Mr. Pond back to Babbitt's on the corner of John and Williams Streets in New York and exchanged for the Speller and pronouncer. I went to Tibbels' and got two more 'Outlines of the United States Government', also to ____ 381-83 Pearl Street for some walnut molding. I made from it 4 frames, 11x13 for Walker Bartram, 838 Broadway for Sewing Machine placards. I delivered them as I went to the depot. I brought home 2 quarts of oysters from Bleeker Street, near McDougal. Charles Hayes met me at the depot here. Henry Hinman paid $5.00 on account towards rent. I lent Mr. Pond my lantern about 10 this evening to see some ladies home to his house. I bought a diary at Tibbles'. JANUARY 10 SUNDAY - Muddy and soft this morning, it not having frozen in the least last night. We rose late and had New York Oysters for breakfast. Charles Hayes and I got ready in time to go down to Sunday School at noon. We came home and let Gussie go to Sacrament in the P.M. We had dinner about 4 P.M., after which Gussie went up home on Deer Hill to prayer meeting. Charlie and I went to church in the evening. Brother Burch preached a short sermon, after which a prayer meeting. JANUARY 11 MONDAY - Colder. Cloudy all day. I have worked in the shop. I finished my work early in the afternoon and called at John Cosier's office on White Street, then at the Jeffersonian Office to see about getting some Bill Heads printed. I talked with Swertfager, the editor, about the bill I am owing him. As I was passing Mr. Griffing's Coal Office, he called me to see if I could pay the bill I am owing him. I could not do it. I talked the matter up with him and then called at Swift's for the Sunday School Journals and then came home. About 6 o'clock in the evening, it commenced raining hard. The Sunday School Officers and Teachers' Meeting did not come off on account of the storm. I went down with the books but returned again in the rain, getting quite wet before reaching home. JANUARY 12 THURSDAY - Everything this morning was loaded with ice with a thin layer of snow to cover the ground. The sun shone a little this forenoon and made everything glisten with its load of ice. I had work in the shop until about 2 o'clock. I then delivered to William H. Warren an 'Outline of the United States Government'. I am to wait a few days for my pay. I took one also for David Hoyt, but he was not prepared to take it today. I went to Swift's and exchanged a diary with him which I bought in New York. I returned to the street again before tea for cheese, bread, tea and coffee. After tea, I wrote to William at the store ordering some frames made and to have him secure if possible Potter's Cabinet Gilding. Charles Hayes wrote a note to William and enclosed it in my letter. We then went into the street, did some marketing, mailed my letter and came home. JANUARY 13 WEDNESDAY - Pleasant. The ice on the trees looked when the sun rose like silver and gold. A beautiful sight. I have worked in the shop. I finished my work about 3 o'clock. I then helped Joe Kyle, and William Carlson finish up theirs. When I came home, I fitted up again the Lincoln and Washington families to make a triplet with the Grant family. I have for a long time until of late hanging in the parlor. I took two of the frames and sold to Edwin R. Hunniston and today I replaced them. I sold a 'Laughing Cat' today to Joe Kyle. After tea, I took off a little the toe of a 'Shoe Last' for Mother Griswold. Charles and I then went into the street. We called a short time at Swift's Auction and then came home. We then helped Gussie seed some raisins for fruit cake. JANUARY 14 THURSDAY - Pleasant. I have worked in the shop. I finished my work about 3 P.M. I then went to the Railroad Shop and ground down to a point the broken knife given to me last evening by Mr. Pond. I came home but soon returned again to the store for some cheese. Robert Cocking called in the evening and paid me 50 cents for our Post Office box for the coming six months. Charlie and I walked down town with him. I paid Dr. Brown the box rent. I did some marketing and came home. I met James Maynard this P.M. I spoke with him about getting me a customer for my store. JANUARY 15 FRIDAY - Warm; cloudy all day; a little fine rain in the middle of the day. The lower district school house last night took fire from the stove and was badly burned inside before it was extinguished. It took fire about 9 o'clock. I have worked in the shop until about 2 P.M. Albert Marsh cashed my account for me - $13.00. On my way home I stopped at Swift's Store a while. After tea, Charlie Hayes and myself went to market returning about 8 o'clock. JANUARY 16 SATURDAY - A little cooler but pleasant. I have been to New York. On my way to the store, I called at Walker Bartram's office ' 838 Broadway near 13th Street and took two of his sewing machine advertisements for his man, Wilcox. I made the frames but did not have time to deliver them. The chromo frame of Mr. Pond, which a week ago I took down with me to mend the gold corner, being done, I brought it home with me and after tea went over to his house with it and put the picture in it again. I have had the headache all day. Charles Hayes was discharged today at J. W. Ives. I gave William today enough money to make out the $50.00 for this month's rent. As I came to the depot from the store, he came with me to call on Galen Terry, agent for the estate of Henry Young (my old landlord) and pay the rent. I brought a package and a letter from James Hurd to his family in West Street. I called as I came from the depot and delivered it. I also brought a small package from George containing some old clothes which he left at the store for me last week. JANUARY 17 SUNDAY - Pleasant until nearly night when it clouded over. Charles Hayes and I attended Sunday School; we went down about 1 o'clock. Charles attended Chittenden's Bible Class at noon. After school we came home to let Gussie stay in the P.M. After dinner which was about 4 o'clock, Charles, Gussie and myself took a walk up to the cometary. Charlie and I attended church in the evening. Brother Burch preached, after which there was a prayer meeting. JANUARY 18 MONDAY - I went to the depot this morning, intending to go to New York if I found Walker Bartram at the station as he has some pictures at this office for me to frame. He not making his appearance, I did not go but went to the shop instead and worked nearly all day. Charles Hayes has been looking around for a situation today. After I came from the shop and before tea, I started out with him again visiting the hat factories uptown but did not succeed in finding a place for him. I stopped at James C. Beers' as we came home and got four pictures to frame for him. At his gate when coming out, I slipped on the ice and fell pretty hard but fortunately did not hurt myself. This P.M. about 4 o'clock Mother Griswold fell on the ice on her way to Mr. Richard's Shoe Shop. Alexander Pine saw her while she was down and came to her assistance. She hurt herself quite badly. Dr. Bulkely was immediately called. After tea, Charles and I took a walk downtown to market, etc. It has snowed a little. JANUARY 19 TUESDAY - A beautiful morning. I went to New York. A light skimming of snow here, about an inch; in New York, about 6 inches. I bargained with Walter Bartram to frame 6 pictures ' the 'Four Seasons' and 'Night' and 'Morning'. They take an 18 inch circle. He is to have Sperry's polished walnut at $5.00 each. He wants them in about 2 weeks. On the train coming home, I partly arranged with him to give Charles Hayes a situation in his sewing machine factory; he will give me his answer tomorrow evening. JANUARY 20 WEDNESDAY - Pleasant; I have worked in the shop. As I went to the shop, I bought a ___ brush at Parmalee & Sherman's for 50 cents. J. M. Bailey, editor of the Times, sent me a note at the shop requesting statistics of our Sunday School, the names of it officers, number of teachers, scholars, deaths, etc. for publication. He is to publish an article on Sunday Schools embracing the different schools of the town. He gave me too little notice so that the report of our school, if published at all, will be deferred until next week. Mother Griswold is still in bed and not able to be up from the effects of her fall on the ice last Monday. After tea, Charles and I went into the street to see Walker Bartram and get his reply about giving Charlie work in his sewing machine factory. He tells him to come for a while at least. I brought home a piece of cloth from Swift's, 2 yards for pants and vest at 85 cents per yard. JANUARY 21 THURSDAY - Pleasant. Charlie Hayes went to his new business this morning at the sewing machine factory. I have worked in the shop; being behind in my work, I worked until dark. Charles and I went to market in the evening. I wrote to William at the store and mailed it in the evening with one to Gussie to Cousin Eliza in California. I brought home from Saul Fleig's a pair of pants and vest to try on to see how I like them. I think that I shall return them, the pants being too short. FRIDAY JANUARY 22 - Pleasant but very cold. I have worked in the shop. As I took Mr. Pond's milk over to him this morning after bringing it from Mr. McDonald's, he gave me $6.00 more in pay for cromos and frames, leaving now a balance of 81 cents due me. In the evening, Charlie Hayes and I went into the street. I returned the pants and vest I got last night at Saul Fleig's and took only another pair of pants a little larger. Father Griswold went away to New York this morning feeling about sick with a cold. I took home from the shop my drab ___ brush to repair by putting screws in to hold on the top. JANUARY 23 SATURDAY - Very cold this morning. I have been to New York. It grew warmer during the day, so the streets in New York were very muddy though here in Danbury, it has not thawed. On my way to the store, I went to the Book Room for two more copies of the Sunday School Advocates and a copy of 'Two Years with Jesus' Volume 1, which is the first year. I also called at Bigelow and Main's (Bradbury's old place in Broome Street) to see Richard Gilbert. From there, I went to 52 Broadway to see the new apparatus for warming houses by steam in place of an ordinary stove. It is a new invention. It is simply a pan of water heated by an ordinary gas burner. It condenses its steam so that the water is not exhausted. I then went to the store. After dinner, William and I took a deep frame to a customer in Amity Street (Mrs. Plant) and at the house put in it a piece of hair work. The bill was $15.00 which the lady paid before we came away. William and I then went down to Franklin Street to a wholesale clothing store to look at some clothing. A friend of his was salesman there. I thought his prices too high for wholesale so we then went to Baldwin's on the corner of Broadway and Canal Street. I saw some coats which I thought cheaper, but finally came away without buying. I went over to the Bowery to take a horse car to the depot and William walked up Broadway intending to beat me and get to the depot before me, but up at 18th Street, I passed him on the walk, the car I was in getting there first. Charlie met me at the cars here. Gussie went to the surprise silver wedding presentation this evening at Brother Burch's. I brought a small parcel from New York for Hiram Benjamin to his family at Mr. Wilcox's on Stevens Street, which I delivered before I came home. JANUARY 24 SUNDAY - Pleasant and warm. We rose late. Charles and I went down to Sunday School at noon. Gussie came down bringing Georgie with her, his first at Sunday School in pants and the first since last fall in school. Charles and I came home after school with Georgie. Gussie stayed to prayer meeting in the P.M. Father came down as we were getting our dinner about 3 P.M. and wanted me to get 'Graffenburg's Manual of Health' for him next time I go to New York at 139 William Street. Just before dinner, I crossed the street and called on Mr. Sherman who has been suffering for about two weeks with inflammatory rheumatism. After dinner, Charles and I took a walk up to Oscar Serine's new house and on the new street west of White's Pond on Tom Benedict's land. Minnie Vintz called about 6 P.M. to go to evening meeting with Louise. Charles and I attended church in the evening. Brother Burch preached after which was held a prayer meeting. I gave Theodore Bradley $6.00 this morning to give to Saul Fleig to pay for my pants. JANUARY 25 MONDAY - I brought water from Father Griswold's cistern for Gussie to wash with. I have worked all day in the shop. After tea, Charlie and I mended Georgie's high chair by gluing it together. We then went into the street. I did some marketing and then came home. Old Mr. Ely, leader of the Sandemanian Church was buried this morning. 26 TUESDAY - Pleasant but cold. I have worked in the shop. Mrs. James Nichols died this P.M. Bell came down and took Georgie up home with her this forenoon. She came home with him about 6 this evening. Charles Hayes went to the Sewing Machine Factory to do night work this evening. He returned as soon as he finished his tea. I drew a plan of Oscar Serine's house and sent to William at the store by letter this evening. We are trying to find a customer for Oscar. On my way to the Post Office, I stopped to see James Wood who has been sick for a few days. I then went to Market, carried a Sunday School statement to the Danbury Times office for publication, it having been omitted last week in an account of the schools in this town. The editor did not call on me in time for me to prepare it for him. When I returned from the street, I called on Amos Purdy who is sick. John Bouton was over there with some medicine for him. JANUARY 27 WEDNESDAY - Pleasant and cold but warmer towards night. We rose so late that our boarder, Charles Hayes, went to work without his breakfast. As I went to work, I carried it to him with enough for his dinner. I finished my work before night and called on William Warren at the Railroad Machine Shop for my pay ($2.00) for the 'Outlines of the U. S. Government' but he was out of money and promised it next Monday. Mother has been down this P.M. to see Mother Griswold. She stayed with us to tea. After tea, Charles and I went into the street. I engaged for Father Griswold Beatty's double team to go over to J. W. Nichols tomorrow to attend the funeral of Mrs. Nichols. I mailed some letters for Father Griswold and came home. An eclipse of the moon tonight. JANUARY 28 THURSDAY - Pleasant and warm. It has thawed so as to make it quite muddy. I have worked in the shop. I finished my work at noon and then went over to the Sewing Machine factory to see Charles Hayes. From there, I called at John Cosier's shop where he cuts leather, then to T. B. Fanton's to see if my watch was repaired. It not being done, Saul Bailey gave me his to carry while he carries mine to regulate. I then bought and paid for 6 bushels of potatoes at D. B. Nichols which they sent up before night. James W. Nichols' wife was buried this P.M. on Great Plain. Father Griswold's family and Gussie went with Beatty's double team. I gave my tax list again this P.M. it is required for a borough tax. Mr. N. C. Pond's reply and explanation of the reported cruel punishments inflicted under his supervision at the new school came out in the Danbury Times today. The reports were utterly false and Mr. Pond's explanation is perfectly satisfactory to all reasonable minds. I wrote William at the store and mailed it this evening and then did some marketing and came home. JANUARY 29 FRIDAY - Pleasant and warm. The snow and ice has melted fast and it has been very muddy. I have worked in the shop. I completed my work about 2 P.M. and came home. Sarah Purdy was married last evening at her home to Lucius Wildman, Jr. After tea, I went into the street to market and then to the Post Office. JANUARY 30 SATURDAY - It was raining hard when I woke this morning. It soon ceased, however it remained foggy until about noon when it cleared off warm and pleasant. I have been to New York. I took down to frame for J. Clark Beers 4 pictures. I brought home two of them and delivered them after tea and got my pay for them. His Marriage Certificate and a Juvenile Missionary Certificate. I bought in New York, two copies of 'Two Years with Jesus', 1st Series for William Taylor, one copy Longking's Notes, Vol. 2 for Ellen Taylor, 'Singing Pilgrims and Musical Leaves, Combined' for Emily Anderson, 'Outlie of Theology' by Hodge for V. W. Benedict, and 'Graffenberg's Manual of Health' for Father. Also for myself, 13 oranges for 25 cents. JANUARY 31 SUNDAY - Pleasant but colder. To Sunday School at noon. Gussie went to prayer meeting in the P.M. I came home from Sunday School with Georgie. Kohanza Dam gave way this evening and swept away all before it. The bridge in White Street is washed away. After meeting, Charles Hayes and I walked up there to see what had happened. But it being dark, cold and muddy near the bridge where the high water had been but had receded, we came home leaving further news for tomorrow.
1869-01
Horace Purdy Journal February 1869 Entry
10pgs
FEBRUARY 01 MONDAY - Pleasant but cold. No work in the factory on account of the excitement about the great catastrophe, the breaking away of the 2 Kohanza Dams, the destruction of property and loss of life. Eleven persons are missing; five have been found, Fanny Humphrey, old Mrs. Hustead (mother to Charles Andrews' wife), Edward Clark and his wife and child. Bridges are swept away; also buildings. Sunderland's Carpenter Shop near Stevens Street, on the east side of the Barn Plain Bridge was smashed entirely in pieces. Another dwelling at the upper end of Main Street was served in the same manner. Another standing near it (in which was Mrs. Hustead) was carried some distance from its cellar, turned end for end with the lower story entirely torn away. Chase's Carriage Shop was entirely demolished except a small piece of the south end which is alone left standing. In the P.M., Charles Hayes, Henry Hinman and myself went up to see the dams and the destruction caused by the rush of waters in that vicinity. Father Griswold came home on the evening train. FEBRUARY 02 TUESDAY - I have worked in the shop. My work kept me as late as I could see in the shop. It is reported that two more of the children drowned Saturday night were found today between Patch and White Streets. After tea, I wrote to George giving him a brief account of the Kohanza disaster and asking him to name if he could when he can let me have some money. When I returned home, Oscar Serine came in to have me write to William and have me find out about a William A. Wilcox at 32 North Morse Street if such a man really lives there and if he is a responsible man, he having written to Oscar about his western farm. He wants to buy a farm of that description. If he is not a humbug and is genuine, Oscar will go to New York with me on Saturday to see him. Mr. and Mrs. Pond also came in during the evening to hear news if any about bodies being found. FEBRUARY 03 WEDNESDAY - There were about 2 inches of snow on the ground this morning and still snowing. It soon turned to rain, however, which before night partially wasted the snow, the remainder being mixed with water. I have worked in the shop. This P.M., six of the drowned persons who have been found were buried, five of them from the Episcopal Church. The other one, old Mrs. Hemstead, mother to Charles Andrews' wife, was buried from Mr. Andrews' residence. As I came home from work, I took a letter from the Post Office from William, stating that Dan has again been disposing of pictures, etc. without permission. Charles Hayes, our boarder working at the Sewing Machine Factory, was paid off today. When he came home, he paid me $10.00 for board, which with an additional 65 cents he borrowed from me balanced accounts up to last Saturday night. In the evening, Charlie and I went into the street to market, etc. As we came home, it lightninged frequently and distant thunder was soon heard. FEBRUARY 04 THURSDAY - There was no rain last night from the thunder and lightning. I got from Mr. Pond two gallons of kerosene oil for Father Griswold before going to the shop this morning; also I killed a chicken for them. I have worked all day in the shop. I rained some in the morning and during the day it snowed quite hard for a time. Before night it cleared off cold. At noon there was circulated a call for 500 volunteers to assist in looking over the ground between White Street and North Main with pick axes, axes, shovels, ice tongs, etc. in search of the three bodies yet missing from the Sunday night calamity. I went to market in the evening. It grew cold very fast in the evening. FEBRUARY 05 FRIDAY - Cloudy in the morning and cold all day. It finally cleared away so that the afternoon was pleasant with sunshine. I have worked in the shop until about 3 P.M. After coming home, I started out again to George Starr's shop to see Clark Beers about the picture frames I am making for him. From there, I went to the Jeffersonian Office for a paper but they were not yet published, the delay being on account of the Coroner's Jury still in session on the bodies of the drowned at the time of the breaking up of the Kohanza Dam. The editor was waiting for their verdict for publication. After tea, I went to market and to the Jeffersonian Office for a Jeffersonian containing an account of the great disaster. The coroner's verdict was that the persons drowned came to their deaths by the breaking of the Kohanza dam occasioned by the action of the frost. I also went to the barber's and had my hair cut. I received a letter from William at the store relative to a Mr. Wilcox wanting to buy a farm in Iowa of Oscar Serine. Also one from George in Yonkers saying that he is coming home on Saturday evening and that he will meet me at the New Have Railroad depot in New York and that he has $20.00 to pay me on what he owes me. FEBRUARY 06 SATURDAY - Pleasant. Oscar Serine went to New York with me today. I went with him to see parties about buying his Iowa farm. I bought for Mr. Pond 75 singing books, the second book of 'Long Garden' of Mason at 596 Broadway. He sent $45.00, the trade price for them, but I got them for $39.38. He gave me the amount $5.62 for my trouble. I expected to find George this evening coming home from Yonkers in company with Jennie Stewart. He came earlier on the train from New York. Oscar and I went to visit the Velocipede Riding School in 9th Street near Broadway in the same block with Stewart's new store. I was much interested. George came home on the noon train from New York. FEBRUARY 07 SUNDAY - Pleasant. We rose rather late this morning. Charles Hayes and I went down to Sunday School. We started about 11 o'clock. Gussie came down at noon with Georgie. After school, Charles and I went home with Georgie, leaving Gussie to stay in the P.M. Another body of a child was found this morning in Peck's Ditch, making 10 that have been found thus far out of the 10 missing at first. Mrs. Clark and one child yet remain missing. George came down on his way to evening meeting and paid me $20.00 towards what he owes me. He then with Bell went to church with Charlie and Gussie. I stayed at home with Georgie. Later the child was found just below the railroad bridge and not in Peck's Ditch as stated above. FEBRUARY 08 MONDAY - Pleasant this morning, but before night it became cloudy with indications of rain. I have worked in the shop. Not having a full day's work, I got home before dark. The seats in the church were rented this P.M. Not feeling able to take one this year, I did not go to the church. I this morning at the shop paid to Mr. Crofut the $20.00 George gave me yesterday towards the $80.00 I borrowed of him On December 4th. After tea, I went to market and mailed letters for Father Griswold and a Jeffersonian to Alfred Humphry. I brought from the Post Office a letter for Miss Camp which I brought over to Mr. Pond's. William Warren met me on the street this evening and paid me the $2.00 he owed me for the 'Outlines of the U.S. Government'. February 09 TUESDAY - Pleasant this morning and not very cold. It soon however came over cloudy and in the P.M. it snowed a little. I have worked all day in the shop. Jo Kyle brought a dozen brooms to the shop which some of his brother-in-laws make. I bought one of them for 37 cents. Mr. Pond came in just before tea to borrow one of Gussie's old school readers to select from it a piece to read at one of their church socials. He selected 'Goody Blake' and 'Harry Gill' and read it over to us much to our amusement. I went to market in the evening, called at the Post Office, and got Mr. Pond's mail, waited for Oscar Serine to see if he got a letter making it necessary for him to go to New York tomorrow. We then came up West Street together as we came home. Harriet Stevens arrived this evening from New Haven. FEBRUARY 10 WEDNESDAY - Cloudy, warm and muggy. I have worked in the shop. I finished my work about 4 o'clock and came home. I then with a crowbar broke up the ice on my ash heap and with a shovel threw it with considerable ashes into a pile in the garden nearby. After tea, I went to market and bought a ham, weight 12 pounds at 24 cents, also a dozen eggs. I took a letter from the Post Office for Gussie from Harriet Stevens in New Haven, but she arrived here herself by last evening's train, one day ahead of her letter. As I returned from Market while walking up West Street with Theodore McDonald, it snowed quite hard. FEBRUARY 11 THURSDAY - The ground was covered with a light snow this morning. The forenoon was warm and the snow that fell last night was gone at noon. After dinner, it came off pleasant and cooler. I have worked all day in the shop. In the evening, I went to the Post Office and to the news office for the Harper's Weekly which contains the illustrations of our great calamity. 'The Breaking Away of the Kohanza Dam'. I got my package of Sunday School papers and came home. Before retiring, I marked off the Sunday School papers. FEBRUARY 12 FRIDAY - Pleasant. I have worked in the shop. I bought a Harper's Weekly and sent it to Eliza in California. After tea, I went to market. I ordered oysters for tomorrow at Raymond's. FEBRUARY 13 SATURDAY - A beautiful day. I have been to New York. Mr. Pond went down with me. His wife went with him as far as Port Chester where she spent the day and returned home with him by the evening train. As I went to the store in the morning, I stopped at 838 Broadway at Walter Bartram's and got 6 pictures for circle frames. They were imitations of statuary of the four seasons and night and morning. I put them in 18 inch Sperry's pattern polished walnut. They were $6.00 frames, but I did the lot for $30.00 which he paid me when I took the pictures. I brought them with me home. He was with me on the train. When we arrived, I went to his house with him to help carry them on Balmforth Avenue. The freight train due here at 1 o'clock fell through the bridge near Bate's Crossing this P.M. Three cars were run into the river. The engine ran across to the north end of the bridge where it rests on the timbers but off the tracks. One man, a brakeman, was badly hurt. To get home this evening, we had to leave the train cross the stream on a plank and take a train on this side. As the New York and New Haven car was run on the Danbury and Norwalk track at Norwalk this evening, the chain to the brake broke which made the brake useless and the two New York cars were run into the rear of the Danbury and Norwalk train, crushing the platforms of two cars, tearing up seats, breaking glass and running one of the New York cars off the track. Passengers were thrown violently from their seats, but none, I believe, were seriously hurt. The two accidents at Norwalk and up here at the bridge made it about 9 o'clock when the train arrived. FEBRUARY 14 SUNDAY - St. Valentine's Day. I heard blue birds this morning for the first time. I got ready about 11 o'clock to go down to Sunday School and went over to Mrs. Wilcox's on Stevens Street to carry a letter and paper to Mrs. Hiram Benjamin which Mr. Benjamin yesterday afternoon in New York gave me to take to her and on account of the lateness of the train did not deliver as I intended last evening. After Sunday School, I came home with Georgie. After dinner which was about 4 o'clock, Charlie and I went down to the lower railroad bridge to see the horror made there yesterday by the breaking of the bridge and precipitating the cars therein. The engine was extracted from its position about noon and drawn up to the depot leaving its tender still in a bad position. This however, was got out about 5 o'clock while we were there and we rode up to the depot as they drew it up. This morning was pleasant, but this P.M. it has been cold, cloudy and damp and about evening time, it commenced raining a little. I stayed home in the evening. Charlie attended church with Gussie for the first time. FEBRUARY 15 MONDAY - It snowed a little during last night but rained hard this morning. It remained cloudy all day but in the evening cleared off so that a few stars and the moon were seen. I have worked in the shop. I went down to the church in the evening to attend the Sunday School teachers' Meeting, but there was none on account of the bad walking which prevented the teachers from attending. I came up home with Elijah Morris to give him the bundle I brought for his wife on Saturday from her folks. I then returned with him to the Post Office. I bought 2 dozen eggs of Randall & Bradley for 32 cents per dozen and two small pieces of cheese and came home. FEBRUARY 16 TUESDAY - A little frozen this morning; pleasant but very muddy during the day. I have worked in the shop but finished my work before dinner. I spent some time after dinner arranging for a new hat for Walker Bartram. I went from the shop to J. W. Ives to see if I could get a job for Dick Coburn but did not. From there, I went to John Cosier's office where I spent the rest of the afternoon. After tea, Robert Cocking came in to inquire about Mark Bouton who has been applying for his upper rooms to rent out for next year. I went over to see if Mr. McDonald would let me take his horse to attend the funeral of John Bouton's baby but he intends to go himself and use the horse. I then walked down town with Robert and applied to A. Hickok for his horse, but that also is to be in use. I then did some marketing and came home. FEBRUARY 17 WEDNESDAY - Pleasant in the morning. Cloudy with some appearance of storm at noon. Pleasant again just at night and in the evening. I worked in the shop until noon and then came home to attend the funeral of John Bouton's baby about 5 months old at 2 o'clock. After the services at the house I came home, changed my clothes and returned to the shop and finished my work. In the evening John came over to see me about having the wreath and cross which was on the coffin preserved. Later, he sent it over by Henry Hinman. I went into the street in the evening and called to see Charles Carpenter at Scofield's Store about taking for him a letter containing money to his brother John at Manny's Carpet Store, 14 4th Avenue, New York. He gave me the letter which I will deliver tomorrow. FEBRUARY 18 THURSDAY - It was snowing hard this morning. About 9 o'clock, it cleared off and was pleasant and warm the remainder of the day. I have been to New York. The snow all melted away before night in the city, though there is considerable left here in Danbury yet. I went down today to take a funeral wreath to preserve for John Bouton. I took a letter with money to John Carpenter for Mr. Carpenter. I got 2 dozen passe-partouts at J. Handler's for O. H. Swift and brought them up with me. I also brought the pictures I have been framing for Clark Beers ' 'The Great Eastern' and 'Washington Crossing the Delaware'. After supper, a little after 9 o'clock, I went over and delivered them. The bill was $6.00. He paid me $5.00 leaving $1.00 due me. The railroad bridge which broke down last Saturday has been repaired and the trains ran over it tonight for the first time. FEBRUARY 19 FRIDAY - The weather has been squally. Sunshine a part of the time and then snow squalls. I have worked in the shop. I had velvet surfaced hats given me this P.M., the first I have ever done. As I came from work, I bought $2.00 worth of sugar. I went to market in the evening and got at D. P. Nichols & Co. store, John Gray's soldiers testimonial and brought it home and put it in a frame I brought home from New York for E. Gilbert. John, per agreement, left it at Nichols' store for me. FEBRUARY 20 SATURDAY - Pleasant and warmer. I have been at home today, something unusual for me on a Saturday. I took with me to the shop John Gray's soldier's testimonial which I frame for him. He paid me for the frame, but still owes me 16 cents for two yard of cord. I took a new hat (velvet surface) up to Walker Bartram as I came from work. He thought it was rather small, so I refused pay for it until next week after he has tried it over Sunday. I brought home a letter for Charles Hayes from William at my store. Feeling an unusual desire for a glass of cider, I went before tea up to Mother Griswold's and begged a little. After tea, I went to market. While in Randall & Bradley's, Clark Beers paid me $1.00 balance due on picture frames. I walked up from the street with Mr. Pond. I am very tired tonight from working on velvet surface hats. FEBRUARY 21 SUNDAY - A beautiful morning. I went down to Sunday School at noon. After school, I came home with Georgie. In the afternoon, it showed signs of storm. At 6 o'clock there was fine rain and mist. Between 6 and 7 o'clock in the evening, I went over to John Bouton's to call on them, it being the first Sabbath since the death of their baby. I stayed until about 8 o'clock and then came home. We all stayed at home in the evening on account of the storm and bad walking. FEBRUARY 22 MONDAY - Washington's Birthday. Muddy, cloudy and rain in the evening. Gussie received by mail the Danbury Times from Harriet in New Haven. It belonged to Henry Hinman. She, by mistake, took it away with her last Saturday. After supper, Charles Hayes and I went into the street. I did some marketing and then we came home. The new military company has a ball tonight at their armory. Louise came down and spent the evening with us. I wrote to William this evening and mailed it ordering 2 frames for testimonials. FEBRUARY 23 TUESDAY - I have worked in the shop. Rain in the morning and more or less during the day. A heavy fog after dinner. About 5 o'clock P.M. it cleared off with a high wind and cold. Old Mrs. Eames, sister to Mrs. Hurd, was buried this P.M. at 2 o'clock from Mr. Hurd's residence. She died in New Haven last Friday night and was brought here today and buried. I wrote to William this evening and mailed it countermanding the order for one of the two frames I ordered by letter last evening. This evening, I called at the shirt factory to see Walter Bartram about the hat I sold him on Saturday. He wants it stretched a little, it being too small. From there, I called at Swift's store and walked up West Street with him as I came home. FEBRUARY 24 WEDNESDAY - Pleasant but colder. I have worked in the shop. After tea, I went down to the Post Office and to Randall's store for a little chees and then came home. Georgie went to bed feeling poorly from a severe cold he has. We fear he will be sick. George Foot, who has this winter had trouble with his wife (formerly Eleanor Wildman) known by many before her marriage as 'Long Ellen', and declared that he would never live with her again and called her every name he could think of that was abusive, did on last Saturday go with her to Norwalk returning home in the evening (or on Monday) and he does not now deny living with her again. This afternoon, he came the shop with his left foot tied up in cloth, hobbling with a cane having last night badly scalded it with hot tea. The 'old woman' he says dropped the tea drawer on it as she was carrying it from the stove to the table. He will not say who he means by 'old woman'. It is doubtless his wife but he is ashamed to own that he has taken her back again after abusing her as he has. FEBRUARY 25 THURSDAY - Pleasant. I have worked in the shop. As I came from Work, I borrowed at Joseph Ives a pump for pumping off kerosene oil from the barrel for Father Griswold. Gussie went to the doctor's today and consulted him for Georgie and got some medicine. He has not sat up during the day, though the high fever which he had last night is broken and this evening, he appeared better. I held him after he sat well bundled up awhile at the table and ate a little toast. I stayed at home in the evening and let Gussie go to market. She went to Dr. Bulkely's again for another medicine. He told her that he wanted some money from me as soon as possible. Mrs. Bradley called here as she came from evening meeting. FEBRUARY 26 FRIDAY - It commenced snowing this morning about 8 o'clock and continued all day until evening when it cleared off. It snowed very fast. There is 10 inches of snow on a level. I have worked in the shop. William Carlton cashed my account before leaving the shop - $24.00- as I am intending to go to New York tomorrow. I sent up to the shirt factory for Mr. Bartram's hat which he agreed to leave there for me today to stretch for him but he had not done so. As I came from the shop, I bought 3 dozen eggs of Randall & Bradley at 28 cents per dozen. Before tea, Henry Hinman and I shoveled out the paths in the yard and the walk in front. I went to the Post Office in the evening and to Mr. Swift's for the amount of Handler's bill for the last passe-partouts he bought of him. He gave it to me to pay for him as I am to be there tomorrow. Mr. Pond came in this evening to have me do some errand for him tomorrow in the city. FEBRUARY 27 SATURDAY - Pleasant. I have been to New York. I did some errand for Mr. Pond, got for him some small bills at 112 Bowery, exchanged shoes at 29 Spruce Street, bought 1/3 dozen boxes of white chalk at Barnes', corner of John and William Streets. My landlord, Mr. Galen Terry, came to the store to see me about the lease of the store for another year. I deferred an answer until next Saturday. I paid Tibbel's $5.00 on account. The children from Howard Mission, who are to sing here tomorrow, were on the train this evening. They gave us some excellent singing on the train. Gussie's cousin Arthur Griswold from Elyria, Ohio came this evening from Hartford. Edgar Bouton from Georgetown was on the train also. He went to John Bouton's where his wife is and has been for two or three days past. FEBRUARY 28 SUNDAY - A pleasant day, but cold last night and this morning. I went down to the church a little before noon. After the Sunday School session, I came home and Cousin Arthur Griswold went back with me to the church to hear the children from Howard Mission sing who have been this P.M. at our church. All the Sunday Schools in town were there and the church was crowded. Gussie came down at noon with Georgie. He stayed, but Gussie was obliged during the exercises to leave and come home on account of a sick headache. She was not able to get dinner, so I got it myself for Charles Hayes and me. Father came down to have me cut his hair, which I did before dinner. Gussie retired early. I spent the forepart of the evening up to Father Griswold visiting with Arthur Griswold.
1869-02
Horace Purdy Journal March 1869 Entry
10pgs
MARCH 01 MONDAY - Very cold last night and this morning, though the day has been pleasant. I rose early this morning and wrote to William and mailed it before breakfast. I wrote to have him while up to Yonkers tomorrow to have a look around for a store at that place suitable for my business. I have worked in the shop. I had some words with William Carlton about my pay which he advanced for me last Friday and drew on Saturday. He claims to have paid me $28.00 when he only paid me $24.00 the amount of my account. I am certain that he did not pay me $28.00 and he is just as certain that he did. I finally gave him $4.00 with the understanding that it was a present and not for what he claims that I owed him for I owed him nothing. While we were at tea, Henry Hinman came down with a picture of their child for me to frame which I did in a rose and gilt frame, 8x10 for $1.00. I went to the Post Office and the baker's in the evening. When I returned, I went up to Father Griswold's to visit with Gussie's cousin Arthur Griswold. MARCH 02 TUESDAY - A very cold morning gain. After breakfast, Charlie Hayes helped me get a barrel of flour form Father Griswold's barn into his house. I have worked in the shop. Sam Larkey and Edward Stevens were shopped today. We are now having all we can do, so I work until dark. The weather has moderated during the day. It has snowed a part of the day thought not very hard. Charlie ate his supper in a hurry and went back to work this evening at the Sewing machine factory. Charlie was paid off today, it being their monthly pay, so he paid for his last four weeks' board to Gussie - $24.00. A special hatter's meeting at Benedict's new hall to consolidate with the independent and foul hatters, or as we call it, whitewashing them. After a lengthy discussion, the thing was voted down and we came home, I to visit up to Father Griswold's with Arthur Griswold. We came down home about 11 o'clock. MARCH 03 WEDNESDAY - Pleasant and warmer. The snow has wasted very fast. Another such day and the sleighing will be used up. I have worked in the shop. After tea, Edmund Allen called to borrow our breast pump. I went with him into the street to do some marketing. This P.M., I believe, the Velocipede Hall was opened at Benedict's new hall. This is the first of velocipedes in Danbury. MARCH 04 THURSDAY - It has snowed most of the time today, some of the time quite hard. I was last night taken with a severe pain in my head, more severe than the ordinary headaches I am subject to. It was I think, Neuralgia. It increased through the night, so that this morning, I was in such agony that I could hardly endure it. The pain struck to my stomach and caused severe turns of vomiting. A pain also in my back. This all continued until noon when Dr. Bulkely, who was sent for in the morning, came. His medicine produced a change. I improved during the afternoon and a little after 4 o'clock, got up and dressed myself. I ate a little and drank a cup of tea. I felt still better in the evening. This being an opening session of another velocipede school in Concert Hall, Charlie Hayes, our boarder, by invitation of his employer. Mr. Olmstead, went. Admission, 20 cents. Gussie also being in the street on some errands, I was left alone. Father Griswold came down and I had a talk with him about the propriety of selling my home for $3,000 and moving to New York to attend personally my business. We both came to the conclusion that if I could not sell my store in New York, I had better sell out here and go there. The snow storm today has amounted to but little by way of increasing the amount of snow on the ground, it being so warm that it wasted about as fast as it came. General U. S. Grant today takes his seat as President of the United States. MARCH 05 FRIDAY - A very cold morning. I did not get up until breakfast was ready. I felt more like myself, the pain in my back being the worst remains of yesterday. About 9 o'clock, I went into the street, took orders for gold frames of Swift, and had some conversation with him about selling my home or my store in New York in which he spoke of Henry Day who was in quest of a business. I then went to see John Cosier, real estate agent, and left with him my New York business to sell, and if not able to do this perhaps to sell my home so that I could move to the city and attend to business. From there, I called at the shirt factory and got $4.50 from Walker Bartram for a hat I sold him 2 weeks ago. I then went down to the shop and had my account made up and left it with Oscar Serine to draw for me tomorrow. I then came home, stopping at Crofut's for some cracked corn for chicken feed. I got home about 1 P.M. On my way into the street, I met Harriet Purdy coming up West Street. She arrived in town from New York last evening. After dinner, I called on Father Griswold and conversed with him about selling my house or business. We agreed about selling the store if possible instead of my house. Gussie went down to Mrs. Carpenter's and to do some shopping in the P.M. I stayed home with Georgie. In the P.M., I wrote to E. C. Allen in Augusta, Maine for particulars about something at which money could be made, I enclosed 10 cents for a sample. My head feeling bad this evening, I stayed at home and let Gussie go to market. MARCH 06 SATURDAY - Cold and snow until about the middle of the day when it stopped. From about 11 o'clock until 5, it was pleasant in New York. When the train coming home reached Norwalk, it was snowing again very hard. I stopped again on the platform at Winnipauk the same as last Saturday, expecting to see Mrs. Meade with a package of woolen pieces for carpet bags for Gussie and Mother Griswold, she having agreed to meet the train there and hand them to me a week ago. She was paid for them about 2 weeks ago while she was in Danbury. She was not at the depot so that we are as yet without the rags. Charles Hayes went to the city with me this morning. He goes to get a legacy due him at 21 years of age left to him by his father. It may be until the middle of next week before he completes his business to return here again. Charles Carpenter also went down with us on a visit to his brother John. I brought back a large carpet bag for him. His father met me at the depot and took it. I brought up John Bouton's wreath which I have been preserving. I also brought 2 testimonial frames for Egbert Gilbert and Ezekiel Eaton., a discharge too framed for Gilbert. Two Singing Pilgrims and 200 slate pencils for Mr. Pond. My store landlord, Mr. Terry, came to see me today. He wants to rent me only the store at $400.00. I am yet undecided about what I will do. I am about discouraged. I brought a letter and papers for Hiram Benjamin to his wife on Stevens Street, which I delivered before tea. Henry Hinman met me at the cars and helped me bring my bundles. A letter for Father by this evening's mail from Uncle Theodore in Sherman with news of his son Charles' death. MARCH 07 SUNDAY - Pleasant but cold. We rose late. I went down to Sunday School and Gussie up home with Father's letter of the death of Uncle Theodore's son Charles. She got to Sunday School before it was out. At its close, I came home and brought Georgie down from Mother Griswold's where Gussie left him to go up home. After supper, I went over to John Bouton's to tell him his wreath was done. On my return, I called at Egbert Gilbert's. When I returned, I went over to Alex Pine's to get Mrs. Pine to wash for us tomorrow. Her daughter being sick, she could not. I then went to the next house ' Mrs. Redmen's (Irish) and engaged her. I called to see Charles Purdy on my return. Gussie being nearly sick with a cold, we both stayed home in the evening. MARCH 08 MONDAY - Pleasant. Gussie is about sick with a heavy cold today. I have worked in the shop. I attended a Sunday School Teachers' Business meeting in the evening at which we voted $10.00 to Elizabeth Bartram for services t the piano at our festival last Christmas. I being the treasurer of the school paid the amount out to her at the close of the meeting. When I returned home, I found a telegraphic dispatch for me from William at the store. I immediately went down to Swift's Store to see him about Day buying me out in New York. We finally thought that he was now in New York looking at the store and that accounted for the dispatch requiring my presence there tomorrow. When I returned home again, I copied the minutes of the Teacher's meeting before retiring. MARCH 09 TUESDAY - Pleasant. I have been to New York. The dispatch last night was because my landlord, Mr. Terry, put on the door, 'To Rent'. I tried twice to see him today by going to his office at 716 Broadway, but both times he was away. I called on H. D. Clark in Courtland Street in the P.M. I came from the city on the 3:45 train and stopped in Norwalk to see a store. Charles Hayes having completed his business in New York, came on the 4:25 train and joined me at Norwalk and came home with me. I am about discouraged in business. After tea, I went up and had a talk with Father Griswold about business. Before retiring, I wrote to William about the lease of the store. MARCH 10 WEDNESDAY - Stormy, rain. I have worked in the shop. My lungs are sore from a severe cough. Charles Griffin came to the shop and dunned me about money for a coal bill, but I could do nothing for him. As I went to work this morning, I left our jug at D. Nichols for a gallon of molasses which I paid for $1.10. It being muddy, rainy and windy in the evening, I stayed home. MARCH 11 THURSDAY - Pleasant today. Yesterday's rain has taken nearly all the snow off. I have worked hard in the shop. I came home about sick. Received a letter from William stating that Mr. Terry had rented my store to other partners. Gussie today bought a piece of unbleached muslin, 43 and a half yards at 16 and a half cents - $7.21; also a linen tablecloth for $1.81. I went to bed sick after which John Bouton came for his wreath. MARCH 12 FRIDAY - Pleasant. I was sick last night and today. My severe cold is I think passing off by way of my bowels as I was up several times last night. I feel very weak today and have not attempted to work though after dinner I went down to the shop to arrange with someone to draw my pay tomorrow. Joe Kyle advanced it to me and he will draw it tomorrow - $18.00. John Gray gave me Ezekiel Eaton's Soldier's Testimonial to frame. I brought it home and put it in a frame which I had ready for it at the house. MARCH 13 SATURDAY - Pleasant. I have been New York. On my way to the store, I called on Phillip's at 37 Broadway at Union Square for two Singing Pilgrims. Henry Day called at the store to see about buying me out. I had a long talk with him. I made him an offer of $600.00. He will see me again next week and decide. I went to the depot to come home by way of Tibbels' 27 Park Row for No. 1 Catechisms. I partly secured a situation there for William as bookkeeper. I brought home 16 oranges for 25 cents. Griffin stopped meat his coal office as I came home from the depot and wanted me to settle my coal bill. He made some threats if I did not do it before April 1st and I got mad and told him to work at it as soon as he pleased. At the same time, I told him I was doing as fast as I could and would not put him off 20 minutes if I could help it. I arrive home sick, could not eat any supper and retired. MARCH 14 SUNDAY - Pleasant. I went down to Sunday School at noon and returned again after the session with Georgie. I have not felt very well and have kept pretty quiet. About noon, the last missing child of the Kohanza flood was found in the rear of William White's. Its name was Nettie Bothwell. There now remains missing only the wife of Mr. Clark. After supper, John Bouton called to see me. We all stayed at home in the evening and retired early. MARCH 15 MONDAY - Snow and hail with wind and some rain until just at night when it cleared off. I have worked in the shop. After tea, I went to market after writing to William. Charles wrote a line and enclosed with me. Another bill for balance of account I owe to D. P. Nichols. MARCH 16 TUESDAY - Pleasant and warmer. I have worked in the shop. As I came from work, I took from the Office a letter from Mr. Day in Newark stating that he could not raise the money I want for my store until the middle of April or May 1st, but he would give me good security and take possession now if I am willing. I showed or rather read the letter to Father Griswold. He advised me to go down and see about it tomorrow. I went to market in the evening. MARCH 17 WEDNESDAY - St. Patrick's Day in the morning. A beautiful day. I have been to New York to see Mr. Day about buying my store. He agrees to meet me there next Monday and close the bargain by giving notes well secured. One of $300.00 payable April 8th and another of $300.00 payable May 1st. He gives over to me his life insurance policy of $1,000 paid up to next February as security and perhaps his brother as endorser. The notes are given by his wife who is worth money. He is giving his own jointly with her or a separate note as additional security. Called again at Tibbel's about a situation for William as bookkeeper; it looks favorable for him. I brought home 15 nice oranges for 25 cents. Gussie having gone over to Cyrus White's china wedding, she left Louise to wait on me for tea. After tea I wrote a line to William stating what progress with Tibbels', and enclosed a French Looking Glass Plate list which I had home. As soon as written, I went down and mailed it. MARCH 18 THURSDAY - Pleasant. I have worked in the shop. Work is getting dull. We had but 1 dozen today. After work I went over to the Sewing Machine Factory to see Charlie and to get $5.00 from George Brockett which he borrowed of me in New York, but I did not see him. After I came home I carried a testimonial and a discharge which I have been framing over to Egbert Gilbert's. In the evening, we all went to the Sinking Fund Social at the church. Belle was with us to tea and stayed until she got Georgie in bed and asleep when she locked up and went home while we were at the Social. I attended the church tea party for organizing the Sinking Fund Social. I went more to go with Charlie Hayes than anything else for I was tired. So far as numbers and enjoyment the affair was a success. MARCH 19 FRIDAY - Pleasant in the morning, but towards night it threatened storm. I went to the shop in the morning, but there being no work, I went over to the Sewing Machine Factory to collect $5.00 borrowed money of Charles Brockett; he did not have the money but gave me an order on Mr. Rider, the paymaster. On my way home, I took a letter from the Office from William at the store expressing gratitude, etc. for assistance in getting him a situation which I have so nearly accomplished at Tibbel's Book Store , 37 Park Row. Gussie being down to the church, helping clean up after last night's affair, I took dinner with Father Griswold. I helped him trim apple trees and trimmed some for myself also. In the evening, I went to market. E. O. Perrin speaks this evening for the Democracy Against Negro Suffrage. It commenced snowing before bedtime. MARCH 20 SATURDAY - About 2 inches of snow on the ground this morning and still snowing hard. It stopped however before noon and in the P.M. It cleared off fine taking all the snow off before night. I have been home today and worked in the shop. I went to market in the evening and took a letter from the Office for Harriet and carried it to her at Dr. Lacy's. I went to the Express Office and found the bundles of carpet rags there sent from Winnipauk to Mother Griswold. I saw J. C. Beers at Parmalee's store. He gave me an order for framing and looking glasses. I am to get the glasses at 107 Rodney Street, Williamsburg and bring them to Danbury when done. MARCH 21 SUNDAY - Pleasant and cold. I went down as usual to Sunday School and returned afterword, Gussie staying to the afternoon prayer meeting. After tea, Charles and I took a walk over to Clark Beers'. From there, we walked up Deer Hill as far as Keeler's Orchard and then returned home. Charles and I attended preaching in the evening. Brother Burch preached, the subject, 'The Night of Horror. ' MARCH 22 MONDAY - Pleasant but cold in the morning. I have been to New York. I took down a frame to put together and put a looking glass in for Mrs. E. Gilbert, also an order for framing two looking glasses for Clark Beers. I have to send to Rodney Street in Williamsburg for the glass. I today took Henry Day's wife's notes (two at $300.00 each) for my store and his life insurance policy as collateral security ($1,000.00). The first note payable in17 days, due April 8th, the second in forty days May 1st. He took possession today. I put up a half dozen gold frames for Swift. Before retiring, I wrote to George telling him of my sale and asking him for what money he can spare before April 1st. MARCH 23 TUESDAY - The ground covered with snow this morning and raining. I had work in the shop until noon. In the P.M., I went over to the Sewing Machine Factory and presented George Brockett's order for $5.00 to the paymaster which he gave me last week for that amount which he borrowed of me last fall in New York. Mr. Rider, the bookkeeper, not having money on hand, he gave me credit for it and charged the same to Brockett. I will get the money April 1st, their next payday. I then went to the shirt Factory to get a pattern cut for my shirts, but the cutter being away, I could not. In the evening, I went to market and bought one gallon of vinegar of Avery Raymond. Father Griswold came home on the freight train this P.M. In the evening, I called on him and told him of my selling my store. Showed him the notes given and the insurance policy as collateral security. Gussie went over to John Bouton's in the evening. MARCH 24 WEDNESDAY - Pleasant but muddy. I have worked in the shop. The work being limited, I finished mine before night. On my way home, I stopped at the business office of Jones & Hoyt to see about the legal transfer of Henry Day's life insurance policy making it payable to me. I hold the policy, but as of yet, no written transfer has been made to go with the document. In the evening, I went into the street and called at Jones & Hoyt and had Jones make out a form for transferring the policy. Mother Griswold spent the evening with us. The store and dwelling on the corner of Main and North Streets uptown was burned this morning. The building was owned by Mason Thorp and occupied by a Mr. Spencer as a grog shop. MARCH 25 THURSDAY - Pleasant. I have worked in the shop. Alexander Pine's oldest daughter, aged 11 years was buried this P.M. George Davis' wife was with Gussie to dinner. I went to market in the evening. Brother Burch, our preacher, sent a blank to me by Fanny to fill out for Conference with Sunday School statistics. I looked them up and filled out the document before retiring. MARCH 26 FRIDAY - Fast Day. Rainy. I have been to New York. I expected to see Henry Day, but he was not there, he having left there last night for Danbury, so says William. I took dinner with William. I came to the depot about an hour ahead of time, left my satchel and went over to 111 West 30th Street to see Mrs. Fields about her pictures to be framed at the shop. I sat with Ezra Abbott in the car from New York to Danbury. I brought the 8x10 oval scale and ribbon frame home to Swift which I took down this morning to repair the gilt. MARCH 27 SATURDAY - The storm cleared away this morning and we have had a fine day. I have worked in the shop. I went to market in the evening. I called a Griffing Coal Office and promised to pay what I owe him on the 10th of April. After coming from market, I went up to Mother Griswold's and got two pounds of butter. It is worth 60 cents per pound but she only charged me 40 cents. MARCH 28 SUNDAY - A splendid day. I this morning saw for the first time blackbirds and robins. I went down as usual at noon to Sunday School after which I came home with Georgie. After tea, Gussie went over to Mrs. Bradley's and they together went up to the cemetery. Charles Purdy took a walk with Charles Hayes and I took Georgie to walk up in West Street. A meeting in the evening at the First Congregational Church (union meeting) for the benefit of the Female Guardian Society. I stayed at home with Georgie to let Gussie attend. MARCH 29 MONDAY - It commenced raining about 7 o'clock this morning and continued all day, raining very hard a portion of the time. I have worked in the shop. As I came from work, I bought a loaf of aerated bread. Charles was late to tea, so we ate before he came. In the evening, Anna Hinman and Mary Gray, her sister, who is visiting with her came downstairs and spent the evening with us. MARCH 30 TUESDAY - It is still stormy. I have worked in the shop. Prices on Velvet Hats, No. 5 and finer, knocked down from $3.50 to $3.00. No. 7 (which we have not yet had any of) or all coarser than No. 5 to be $2.50. Fred Jennings has been trying to rent rooms of O. H. Swift. Swift called at the shop today to enquire of me concerning him. I, of course, answered plainly. Jennings afterwards, when Swift refused him the rooms, swore and raved fearfully. He threatens to have my heart's blood, etc. This evening, I bought one 8x10 polished oval walnut frame of O. H. Swift for Miss Camp. It was a $2.00 frame; I got it for $1.50. Horace Greeley speaks on the issues of the day this evening at Concert Hall. I had so many bundles bring from market that I came home without stopping to hear him. MARCH 31 WEDNESDAY - A little rain during the day. It cleared off just before night. I have worked in the shop. Henry Hinman moved out form our upper rooms today. He has gone over in the upper part of William Trumbull's home. I stayed home in the evening except for a short time spent with Father Griswold arranging for the payment of our joint note at the Danbury Savings Bank.
1869-03