Horace Purdy Journal January 1869 Entry
11pgs
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 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
Horace Purdy Journal April 1869 Entry
11pgs
APRIL 01 THURSDAY - Pleasant but a little cooler. I have worked in the shop. I mailed for Gussie a letter to her sister Harriet in New Haven. I received a letter from George. He has left Yonkers on account of Mr. Waring changing from fur to wool hatting. He is now boarding at 74 Claremont Avenue in Brooklyn and working for Prentice. He asks if his name is alright on the list here so he can vote. I wrote a reply and mailed it saying that he is alright and we want him here if possible. I also dropped a line to Henry Day (who bought my store in New York) and enclosed an application to the Travelers Insurance Company of Hartford to make his life insurance policy payable to me in case of his death, the policy for which I hold as security for his notes given in payment for my store. I sent it for he and his wife to sign jointly as the policy is in favor of his wife. I bought a shad at 20 cents per pound for the first time this season. It was a North Carolina shad. While in the street, Dr. Brown told me that $5.00 would be given to George if he would come home to vote. I came home and wrote another letter to him stating the fact. Charles Hayes, our boarder, gave Gussie $13.00 towards his last month's board. APRIL 02 FRIDAY - I have worked as usual in the shop. It commenced raining about 6 o'clock this evening. Joseph R. Hawley spoke this evening for the Republicans at Concert hall. Victor Benedict was at the meeting and after Hawley stood up and made an open declaration of Republican principles, denouncing the sham democracy of the present day and stating that if his life was spared until next Monday, he should vote for impartial or Negro suffrage. The meeting closed at 10 o'clock when I walked up West Street with Marshall West. Edmund Allen offers me $3,000 for my place. APRIL 03 SATURDAY - Pleasant. I have worked in the shop. Rheumatism is troubling me considerably, but so far I have kept at work. In the evening, I attended the Republican Caucus at Concert Hall. We nominated for representatives, Walter Bartram and John Tweedy. Henry Fanton, the grocer, ran for a time ahead of all the others. Perry, E. S. Davis, L. Brewster, and several others had a respectable number of votes for a time. After the caucus, a large number went up to L. J. Jackson's to present him with a picture of the first reading of the Emancipation Proclamation by Abraham Lincoln in the presence of his cabinet ' size 25x40 in walnut and gilt with cross bands and ornamental corners. It is a fine thing; price, $65.00. I did not go up but saw the picture at Swift's earlier in the evening. I bought a dozen oranges of S. Holmes, corner of Main and Liberty Streets and came home. APRIL 04 SUNDAY - Cool. At noon and a portion of the P.M., we had snow squalls. Aside from this, the sun shone brightly. Father Griswold preached this forenoon. Gussie went to hear him and I stayed homer with Georgie. She came home in time to let me go to Sunday School. After school, I came home. I feel miserable with rheumatism. About 6 o'clock P.M., Susan Brayman called to see Gussie. Later in the evening, Henry Hinman came in to give Gussie Mrs. Stone's address. She then wrote to her to see if she would come to help clean house. She wrote to Southbury where we last knew her to be. APRIL 05 MONDAY - Pleasant. Election Day. George came home by the morning train from Brooklyn. I met him at the train. I borrowed John Tweedy's horse and took him with his traveling bag up home. From there, I took him to the Court House where we both voted. We then went up to the Post Office and then we came home to dinner. At the Court House, I bought 10 Colorado pens for 25 cents. I gave George 5 of them. Just before dinner, I had a talk with Father Griswold about selling my home. He advises me to do so if Edmund Allen will take it at $3,000. If so, he promises to build me another place which will cost $2,000. I went down to the polls again in the P.M. Later in the P.M., I met George uptown. I gave him the $5.00 promised to defray expenses coming home to vote and will get it again from John Tweedy or Dr. Brown. I saw Henry Day who also came home to vote. I went to Norwalk with George and Day to talk with them and returned again on the evening train. I let George take my N.Y. & N. H. railroad commutation ticket at Norwalk to see if he could use it and thereby save $1.30. When I came home, I was in a bad condition from the rheumatism. When I got home, I found John Bouton at the house waiting to see me to make out an estimate of a house as I am thinking of building if I sell my house. When he left and I tried to eat a little, I retired, feeling about used up. APRIL 06 TUESDAY - Pleasant. I got up feeling miserable. On my way to the shop, I called at the Post Office and Dr. Brown gave me the $5.00 I advanced yesterday to George. I tried to work at the shop but could not and had to give up and come home. On my way home, I stopped to see Edmund Allen. He is still in earnest about buying my house, though I have not yet set the price. I bought ## dozen lemons and when I got home, I made some hot lemonade for my cold. In the P.M., I drew up a plan for the house Father Griswold contemplates building for me if I sell the one I am now living in. The result of the election yesterday was the election Walter Bartram as our representative. John tweedy our other one, was defeated by only two votes, which gave it to Dr. James Baldwin, the Democratic nominee. Our majority (republican) can only be figured at. We elected our Governor Marshall Jewell and have a majority in both branches of the legislature. Bill for back dues for the Hatters' Association sent me by the Secretary, Edward Coday - $2.00. I did not pay it. APRIL 07 WEDNESDAY - Pleasant and warm with the exception of 2 or 3 showers which were short thought it rained quite hard. I am feeling better and have worked all day in the shop. John McNamee called the shop this P.M. to raise the price of finishing velvet hats. We voted to raise them 50 cents per dozen where they were not pounced before coming to us. Mr. Crofut declared that he could not give it and sell the hats in the same market as the Jersey manufacturers and said that if we insisted on having the advance, we could get up what we had out and then stop. This effected a reconsideration of the vote which resulted in going to work at our old prices, viz, $2.50 for all coarser than No. 5 and $3.00 for No. 5 and all finer. While we were at tea about 7 o'clock, Henry Hinman came in and sat with us until I went into the street. While in the street, I saw John Bouton while in Swift's store. I gave him the plan of the house I drew yesterday to estimate the cost of building. The body of Mrs. Clark, the last of those destroyed in the Kohanza disaster was found yesterday about midway between the lower railroad bridge and the factory pond below. After coming from the street, I went over to see Robert Cocking about the pieces of glass he wants to buy at my old store in New York now occupied by Henry Day. While over there, Mrs. Cocking poured a glass of wine for Robert and me. Before retiring, I wrote a dunning letter to George Quien for the $2.25 he owes me for framing a testimonial. APRIL 08 THURSDAY - Pleasant excepting a shower in the P.M. As I went to work this morning, I mailed the letter I wrote last night to George Quien. I have had work all day in the shop. Gussie has been down to Susan Brayman's to have her help her make some shirts for me. Susan came home with about 5 ## o'clock and stayed to tea. She found Mother up to Mother Griswold's visiting. She came down to make us a visit, but Gussie being gone, she went up there. After tea, Gussie went up home with Mother and got George's clean clothes for me to take to the city tomorrow. While she was after them, John Bouton came in to give me an estimate on building a house which father Griswold thinks of building for me. I went downtown with John. Before returning, I called on Ed Allen and offered my place for $3,000 with the privilege of staying until next spring before giving possession. He is to think of it and let me know. APRIL 09 FRIDAY - I have been to New York. I expected to have some money from Henry Day on the note due yesterday but the person from whom he expected the money is dangerously ill and he could not under the circumstances get it. I collected from Benjamin Ryder, $1.35 for a sample frame I made for him. I called on Tibbels about the bookkeeper's situation for William Hayes. It looks doubtful about his securing it. I also called at Gilbert Bennett's in Pearl Street near Fulton to collect $.92 balance due for framing a picture of his factory at Georgetown, but he not being in I did not get it. I brought home Egbert Gilbert's looking glass and delivered after tea. I got the money, $3.25, which Day told me to put in my pocket towards what he owes me. I brought home two bananas. I bought for the Sunday School 9 Judd's Lessons for every Sunday in the year. APRIL 10 SATURDAY - Pleasant. I worked in the shop until about 4 P.M., then came by way of Griffing's Coal Office and paid him an old coal bill which has been standing since October 1867. The amount with interest was $43.60 which I paid to balance the account. I also gave his son, Charlie, $20.00 on account. I then went down to the Pawn Brokers and bought a quart of oysters. From there I went down to Albert Sherwood (who keeps the jail) to see if he could cash an order for me, the amount being $17.00. He could not do it. I went to market in the evening. APRIL 11 SUNDAY - The day has been pleasant thought this evening there is an appearance of a storm. I went down to Sunday School at noon, returning with Georgie after the session. Gussie stayed to communion in the P.M. After tea, we went up near father Griswold's barn to look at the ground where he thinks of building a house for me if I should sell mine. Gussie then went over to Robert Cocking's to see his wife who is sick. We both stayed at home in the evening. APRIL 12 MONDAY - I worked in the shop until about 4 P.M., then having done all I could get, I came home, stopping on the way at Jones & Hoyt to see about sending Henry Day's life policy to Hartford to have it made payable to me in case of his death. Mr. Jones not being in, I concluded to defer it until he gets home. He is expected this evening. Before tea, I did a little towards cleaning out my cellar. I attended teachers' Meeting in the evening. After the meeting, I did some marketing and came home. APRIL 13 TUESDAY - Pleasant. I had work in the shop until a little after dinner when I finished and came home. On my way home, I left henry Day's life insurance policy at Jones' office to have it sent to Hartford to have it made payable to me in case of his death. When I came home, I changed a part of my clothing and took a walk back into the street and up Balmforth Avenue to see Widow Leach's hose which has been offered for sale at $3,700. I came home to tea about 6 o'clock. Sister Harriet Purdy called about 6 o'clock and stayed to tea. After tea, I went over to Mr. Pond's for a small bottle of ink which he gave to me. Louise also took teas with us, Mother Griswold's folks being away. Gussie and Louise went in the evening to a temperance lecture in our church. It is a jubilee with the temperance organizations here. After the lecture, I believe that they are to have a festival at their hall over benedict & Nichols' store. I locked the house and went down to the Post Office, called at Swift's store for a few minutes and came home, walking up West Street with Luther Potter. APRIL 14 WEDNESDAY - Pleasant. I have had work all day in the shop. After tea, John Bouton and wife called, he to see Father Griswold about building a wood house. Frank stayed with Gussie while John and I went into the street to do a little marketing. APRIL 15 THURSDAY - Pleasant, though it froze some last night. I have worked all day in the shop. Came home with the headache. Mother Griswold having company to help her quilt, Gussie was there to tea. So Charlie Hayes and I went up to tea also. I not fully able to go into the street, Gussie did all the marketing. I lent Charles Hayes $2.00 until next Tuesday. The 'Aurora Borealis' was very luminous this evening, covering the whole heavens. There seemed to be a center directly over my head from which it radiated in flashing streaks. There was a similar wonder before the War of 1861 to 1865. Whether this is an omen of another dire calamity or not, I cannot say, but it is truly wonderful. John Bouton and his carpenters today commenced building Father Griswold's woodhouse. APRIL 16 FRIDAY - Pleasant and warm. I had work in the shop until a little after noon when I came home, stopping on the way to get Henry Day's life insurance policy which Jones sent to Hartford to be made payable to me in case of Day's death. This I hold as security for the $600.00 which he owes me for my store which I sold him in New York. I cut the edges of my door yard walks and raked them off this P.M. After tea, George Fenner called and I went with him to see Mr. Pond about his boy (Fenner) entering school next term. Mr. Pond was not at home so I went with George to Borough Hall on White Street to see him. When I returned from the street, I found John Brayman at the house for a call. Before retiring, I went up and showed Henry Day's life insurance policy (which I have been having made over to me) to Father Griswold. APRIL 17 SATURDAY - No work the shop. Before breakfast, I went down and mailed a letter to Henry Day 68 Carmine Street, New York. Before coming home, I bought a hoop for Georgie for 15 cents. After breakfast, I went down to the shop. Cyrus White cashed my account so that I could come home and wait until be paid home. I spent the forenoon in trimming my apple trees. I took the noon train and went to Georgetown to get 82 cents from Edwin gilbert, the balance due me for framing the photo of his factory. He showed me around his factories where I saw for the first time, I saw wire pulling, misc. cloth weaving, hair curling and glue making. I took the next up train arriving in Danbury again at 4 o'clock. Harriet Purdy was on the train going down on her way to New York. She left one of her bundles with me to bring down with me the next time I go to the city. I finished trimming my trees before night. I stayed home in the evening and let Gussie go to the market. I rained before dinner and until about 1 o'clock. It was a refreshing shower without thunder. Pleasant again in the P.M. and in the evening. APRIL 18 SUNDAY - Pleasant and warm, the finest day we have yet had. I went down to Sunday School and returned after the session with Georgie. Harriet Mills came home with Gussie to tea. While we were at tea, Father came in for a visit. After tea, Georgie and I took a walk, stopping a few moments sat Clark Beers on Montgomery Street, thence through Stevens Street, stopping at Mr. Francis' new house and going through it with Mr. Francis. The on our way home in West Street, I stopped at Mr. Swift's gate and talked with him a short time. Our old preacher, Mr. William Hill, preached this morning and evening. I did not hear him, not being on time this morning and Gussie went this evening. I stayed home with Georgie. APRIL 19 MONDAY - Before breakfast I wrote and mailed a letter to Henry Day about a small looking glass in an oak frame for Clark Beers, also a gilt oval with an eagle top center ornament for Mr. Swift. Went to the shop, but there being no work, I came home and spent the day by commencing gardening. I planted peas, two rows of potatoes and two rows of onions. I forked over my asparagus bed and uncovered strawberry plants. Also cleaned out our rain water hogshead. In the evening, I returned for Father Griswold a pair of hedge shears and went to market. I brought for Father Griswold from the Jeffersonian Office a lot of printed circulars for distribution to his preachers on the south Long Island district, giving his appointments for 3 months to come. It has been very much like summer today, a little muggy in the morning but hot through the day. I bought ingredients for grafting wax. APRIL 20 TUESDAY - No shop work. Gussie and I cleaned the front chamber. I made grafting wax, and bought a small tub for whitewash for Mr. Pond and myself. I spaded garden enough to plant my 'Champion of England' peas. Towards night, it showed signs of rain. About 5 ## o'clock, it commenced to rain a little. It acted more like April showers than a settled rain. Gussie, Louise and Susan Brayman went in the evening to the downtown school exhibition at Concert Hall. I stayed at home with Georgie. APRIL 21 WEDNESDAY - It rained hard last night. Sunshine and showers this forenoon, but pleasant in the P.M. I had work in the shop until after 3 P.M. I came home by way of the jail to see the keeper, Mr. Sherwood, about $17.00 he owes Henry Day which Day turned out to me. Sherwood has not yet received his pay from the County. When he does, he will pay me. Before tea, I set out in place of where our old ones died some strawberry plants. I went to market in the evening. Gussie went to Sewing Society at Saul Bailey's. Louise stayed with Georgie while I was in the street. I got my hair cut before coming home. Harry Ledger's remains were today brought from Norwalk and buried. APRIL 22 THURSDAY - Pleasant but cool. I went to the shop in the morning, but there being no work, came home, stopping at the Post Office and talked for some time with Dr. Brown, the Postmaster, about the prospect of his being reappointed as Postmaster. After dinner, I started to see Henry Hurd about the order about I have from Henry Day to collect $6.72 from him but did not find him at the shop. I then went to the Bartram & Fanton Sewing Machine Factory to see if they could pay me the $5.00 from George Brockett, but they could not pay off yet, and therefore, I could get no money there. From there, I went to the shop and made arrangements for Ed Hunniston to draw my money on Saturday if I am not there. I then went up home to see Father who is about sick and gave him the ## pound of tobacco that Harriet left with me for him. I got around home about 6 o'clock. In the evening, I went to market. Before coming home, I saw Henry Hurd and collected $6.72 which I put in my pocket as he desired and endorsed the same on his note of $300.00 which was due on the 8th inst. I stopped a few moments in Concert Hall to see the velocipede riders. APRIL 23 FRIDAY - Pleasant. I have been to New York. I saw the Olympic Theater on fire. It was so extinguished that no outward signs of a fire were left visible. I brought home a looking glass in an oak frame for Clark Beers and delivered it before coming home to my tea. I also brought the 8x10 gold oval (national design) for Swift which he ordered some time ago ' price to the trade, $2.50. The oak frame for Beers was $2.00. I am to bring him an arch top gold looking glass next week when I think he will pay for both. I came to Norwalk on the 3: 45 train which gave me about an hour at Norwalk. I wanted to see Charles Purdy who works at the lock factory, but the factory was closed when I got there. APRIL 24 SATURDAY - Pleasant and warm. No work in the shop. In the forenoon, I dug up two dwarf pear trees which were dead in my yard and tore out the sink upstairs and plastered up the hole through which the waste pipe ran. After dinner, I went down to the shop, but Ed Hunniston, who I had requested to draw my pay for me had gone. So I came home and spent the remainder of the day in whitewashing upstairs. In the evening, I went to market and brought home a 3 lb. shad. O. H. Swift paid me for frames I made for him; the balance due me was $8.53. I received a note from Sigler Brothers, 131 and 133 Mercer Street, New York requesting me to pay a bill which was enclosed ' amount $10.15. My account says only $7.16. I tried to buy a key to match the one belonging to the outside door at the foot of the stairs, but could not get one. Gussie went to the milliners for her hat, but it did not suit her, so she went over to Mrs. Bradley's and they together trimmed it over again. While she was over there about 10 o'clock, we had a thunder shower. APRIL 25 SUNDAY - Pleasant but windy and cooler than yesterday. I went to church in the morning. The presiding elder, Brother Osborne, preached. After Sunday School, I came home. After tea, Gussie went to the funeral of Widow Minor, who was before marriage, Eliza White. Father came down this P.M. with a letter for me to take to New York next time I go to Harriet with $2.00 enclosed. I am to leave it at Mr. Bogle's store, 83 Barclay Street. Just before evening meeting, I took a walk over to John Bouton's. I returned in time to attend church. Brother Crawford preached. APRIL 26 MONDAY - I went to the shop in the morning, but there was no work. I took a ride part way to Brookfield with Luther Potter to get a melodeon. The day has been pleasant and warm and I enjoyed it much. I took a letter from the office for Charles Hayes from Charles Purdy from South Norwalk. I then came home and spent the remainder of the day working in my garden. I planted beets and vegetable oyster. I also set out two rows of strawberry plants and dug a part of the flower borders. While we were at tea, Mrs. Bradley came in. Gussie gave her some flower plants. I helped her carry them home and then went to market. I took a letter from the office from Fanny from New haven where she has gone to help Harriet move into her new house. APRIL 27 TUESDAY - Pleasant and warm. I have worked all day in the shop. Before tea, I dug over and raked the flower mound in front of the house. As soon as this was done, John Gray came for some strawberry plants. I helped him dig them before taking my tea. Gussie cleaned the room which our tenants used for a kitchen upstairs. I stayed at home in the evening and let Gussie go to market. I sent the letter by her to mail which Father brought down Sunday afternoon for me to take to Mr. Bogle's store in New York next time I go to the city. The letter is for Harriet and he enclosed $2.00. It being uncertain about when I should go, I sent it by mail. I also sent by her a root of horse radish to be left at Mr. Holmes' store for Widow Fred Starr. I promised it to her last evening. Thunder and lightning during the evening, and at 10 o'clock as we were retiring, it commenced raining. APRIL 28 WEDNESDAY - A beautiful day. The rain last night was light. I went to the shop this morning, and finished off the remainder of a dozen hats. There being no more to do, I came home, stopping on the way for some sugar and a small piece of lime to finish whitewashing what was our tenant's kitchen upstairs. Before dinner, I went over to Mrs. Maddon's to do some grafting for her. She for the last two years has been wanting me to do it. I grafted three trees for her, putting in 38 scions in 18 stocks. I finished for her about 3 P.M. I then did my whitewashing upstairs, after which, I spaded up a piece of my garden for a bed in which I put parsnips, carrots and a few radishes. It was about dark when I finished. Charles Purdy came up from Norwalk today and called for Charles Hayes while he was at tea. I stayed at home in the evening and let Gussie go to market. APRIL 29 THURSDAY - Stormy. It rained hard most of the day until about 4 P.M. I went to the shop in the morning, but there being no work, I came as far as the Post Office where I sat and talked with Dr. Brown until the mail came and then I came home. I finished grafting for Mrs. Maddon in the P.M. She paid me $1.20 for what I did. After this, I put up frame work for my grape vines. I set out some cabbage stumps. In the evening, I went to market. APRIL 30 FRIDAY - A heavy frost this morning. Mr. Pond and myself have been to New York today. I went for the gold looking glass frame for Clark Beers, but it was not done. I went with Mr. Pond to A. T. Stewart's and other places for a carpet. He finally bought of Stewart. He bought 50 singing books, 'Love Garden' of Mason, wallpaper of Ruckle & Trainque, 83 Sixth Avenue; also 60 feet of gilt molding, one inch wide for ceilings in place of bordering for wall paper, this I bought of Grayson in elm Street, near Browne. We took dinner at eh St. Charles Hotel. Brother George Starr was on the train coming from the National Sunday School Convention at Newark, New Jersey. Fanny was also in the train from Norwalk, coming from New Haven where she has been helping Harriet to move.
1869-04