Edited by
DARYL E. JONES
JAMES H. PICKERING
A Young Woman in the Midwest:
The Journal of Mary Sears, 1859-1860
Born in Greenwich, Massachusetts on
March 31, 1838, and trained as a music teacher,
Mary E. Sears was twenty years old in
the winter of 1859 when she began keeping a
journal of her daily thoughts and
activities while emigrating West to join family mem-
bers in Ohio and Illinois. During the
following two years she recorded a multitude of
experiences which span both distance
and social class: they range from her trials as a
rural schoolteacher in Rochester,
Ohio, to a tornado in the newly settled railroad town
of Amboy, Illinois; from the gala
social whirl of antebellum Columbus, where she
toured the Statehouse and heard a
speech by the Honorable Stephen A. Douglas, to
daily routine in a mud-chinked log
cabin in Pana, Illinois, where hogs ran free in the
streets. Accounts of soapmaking,
lectures on abolitionsim and spiritualism, Republi-
can meetings, "sugar eats,"
and other mundane affairs of the last century also appear
in the journal.
Yet the small pleasures of Mary's
life were eclipsed by hardship and sorrow. Victim
of a weak constitution and chronic
illness which led to her death in Amboy at the age
of twenty-five, only two years after
the last journal entry, Mary found little respite amid
the drudgery of frontier life.
Repeatedly she endured the shock of losing close friends
and relatives. Rendered in pencilled
jottings whose careless penmanship itself suggests
inner turmoil, her gripping accounts
of death bed scenes lend credence to the startling
mortality statistics of the
nineteenth century. Still, like the village church bell tolling
the departure of a loved one, a sense
of resignation broods over Mary's highly charged
descriptions of spiritual crises-a
resignation born of her deep faith in a God who "or-
dereth all things aright and doeth
all things well." Interesting, well written, and in the
last analysis emotionally stirring,
the journal of Mary Sears offers present day readers
insight into the struggles of a
sensitive, introspective, and compassionate young woman
striving to come to grips with the
hardship of life in the nineteenth century.
The history of the journal itself is
incomplete, though it apparently devolved to
Lucius Sears, Mary's younger brother,
following her death on May 8, 1863. Lucius
eventually settled in Lansing,
Michigan, and it was in his home more than a century af-
ter Mary's last entry that the
journal ultimately surfaced.
In its entirety the journal runs to a
length of one hundred nineteen pages; for this
Mr. Jones is Assistant Professor of
English at Texas Tech University, and Mr. Pickering is Professor of
English at Michigan State University. The journal is in
the possession of Professor Jones.
215
216
OHIO HISTORY
transcript, however, entries have
been selected on the basis of notable historical, cul-
tural, or dramatic interest. Mary's
handwriting is legible, but several words may be
variously read. The original
spelling, capitalization, and punctuation have been re-
tained, but in the interests of
clarity complete dates have been added to the entries. On
the inside front cover of the journal
a note appears in Mary's handwriting which ex-
plains that the journal itself, a
composition book with a mottled cardboard cover, was
purchased in Oberlin on January 26,
1859; apparently, then, entries prior to this date
were originally recorded elsewhere
and subsequently copied into the journal. These en-
tries begin in Rochester, Ohio, on
New Year's Day, 1859.1
Journal commencing with the
1st Jan. 1859. Rochester, Ohio.
[January 1, 1859] Today begins the New Year, a bright beautiful morn.
trust the
year may pass as pleasantly: am with
Carrie and hope to spend much of the time
the coming year in their pleasant
family.2
I was rather unfortunate in getting a
fall off the doorsteps this morning, which
makes me feel rather blue. hope I
shall not be so luckless again this year.
As I look forward into the coming year,
I feel that it should be devoted to
personal improvement, and with God's help I hope to make great
advancement in
the Divine road. I know I have a work to
do and duties to perform, and O for a
High hand to guide me in the path of
duty and point out the work for me to do! I
trust in all I do or say I may have the
glory of God in view, and with that in view, I
trust this year may indeed be a happy
one, and at its close I may feel that it has not
been in vain that I have lived, may my
aim be to live "nearer my God to thee, even
though a cross it be that bringeth
me...."
[January 29, 1859] Jan. 29. This indeed has been a very busy week with me,
one
which will doubtless prove of importance
to me, either for good or evil. I trust I
have not acted rashly nor
inconsiderately. therefore hope it may prove of benefit to me.
On Monday the directors of the School in
this district came to engage me to take
the school for two coming months, having
had occasion to discontinue the school
taught by Mr. Dudley their former
teacher: and after asking the advice of my
friends present, I consented to take it
at $18.00 per month for two months. I was at
once filled with hopes and fears, but
trusting all in the hands of God, I came to feel
that all would end right, that for some
wise purpose it was so ordered that I should
go into the school. and so I hope and
trust, knowing and feeling that God is able to
support and strengthen me, and crown my
efforts with a blessing. I know I can do
nothing of myself, but with God on my
side I shall do valiantly. again I pray fer-
vently for His blessing on my labors
which lie before me, and may I be prospered in
my School!
On Wednesday Oscar went with me
to Oberlin to get a certificate for teaching.
quite a pleasant day but very ruff
traveling. and oh, how tired I was, when I had
reached home after a ride of forty
miles!
1. Little is known about Mary's life
prior to this time. She receives no mention in local histories of
Greenwich, Massachusetts, although the
Sears family is listed as one of the prominent families of the
town. Greenwich officially ended its
existence on February 14, 1938, when it was flooded to become part
of the Quabbin Reservoir. An
interesting, albeit nostalgic, view of the valley where Mary grew up is
found in Francis H. Underwood, Quabbin:
The Story of a Small Town (Boston, 1893).
2. At this time Mary was staying with an
older sister, Carrie, wife of Oscar Clark. The Clarks were
then living with Oscar's parents in
Rochester, Ohio, but in later years they moved to Lansing, Michigan,
where Oscar entered the lumber business.
Mary Sears Journal 217
Spent several hours in Oberlin, went
about the village some, liked its look and ap-
pearence very much. Went before members
of the Faculty of the college to be ex-
amined. Prof. Cha's Penfield was the one
who gave me the certificate (I had read of
him in the "memoir of Helen Cowles
of Oberlin." he was her step-brother). a very
fine gentleman too:3 I gained
a certificate for two years, one of their best, this was
more than I expected.4 but
thanks be to God who I know assisted me in my en-
deavors to do well. And with a heart
lighter of one burden I returned home.
[January 30, 1859] Jan. 30. Sabbath day. spent at home,
would be glad to attend
church but have not the privilage, so
improve the time at home in reading, and trust
I may be the better fitted for the
duties of this week for having seen this day.
[January 31, 1859] Monday eve. In
school one day, oh, my feelings at this time!
school appeared very well, but I see that
'twill not be any easy task to put and keep
them all in shape. the commitee came
into the school this morn and stayed untill
noon. they made some very good remarks
to the pupils which I hope may prove
beneficial to them. I feel that I have a
great work to do and I would seek God's
blessing to accompany my efforts for
good, as I know of myself I can do nothing.
came home tonight with a violent head
ache and feel near sick. however trust the
morrow will find me better, and I will
hope for the best. and I feel quite sure that
God will assist me and bless me, since
He says in His word that all who ask in faith,
shall receive. and I am willing to trust
in His mercies and leave the result with Him
while I will earnestly strive to
discharge my duties.
[February 1, 1859] Tuesday.
Second day in school. about 35 scholars present.
sometimes am almost ready to give up in
despair when I again think all will be well,
if I labor to do my duty. So I will
continue trying, trusting the event with God.
find many errors and faults which I hope
in time to overcome in my pupils. most of
them seem quite willing to try to do as
I wish them. hope I may win their love and
esteem, so that all will yield implicit
obedience without using severity. I want
to get along peaceble and without any
trouble....
[February 13, 1859] Sabbath 13.
Another holy Day! how I rejoice that I am per-
mitted to enjoy its light! would that I
could go up to the house of worship and lis-
ten to the divine teachings of Christ's
servant! but that privilage is denied me for
the present, so I will be content and
learn how to appreciate such privilages when I
do again enjoy them.
Some how I have felt unusually sad
today, yes, have even indulged in tears, which
I have not often allowed myself to do
since I left home. I much wish I could step in
my loved home tonight and greet the
family group. I greatly miss the family wor-
ship. yes the reading of the holy
Scriptures and singing with prayer, which we ever
united in at Home I miss. 'twould
really seem a treat to hear the voice lifted in
prayer.
[February 14, 1859] Monday. Last night Carrie was taken sick about
midnight.
3. Charles H. Penfield, stepson of Henry
Cowles, grew up in Oberlin and graduated from the College
in 1847. Helen Cowles was a member of
Oberlin's Preparatory Department and Ladies' Department
from 1848 to her death in 1851.
4. In accordance with an 1853 revision
of the Ohio general school law of 1849, teaching certificates
were granted to those applicants who
possessed good moral character and who passed examinations in
orthography, reading, writing,
arithmetic, geography, and English grammar. Despite Mary's assertion
that the certificate awarded her was
"one of their best," all certificates granted by the county Board of
School Examiners were valid for two
years anywhere in the county. Nelson H. Bossing, "The History of
Educational Legislation in Ohio From
1851 to 1925," Ohio Archaeological and Historical Publications,
XXXIX (1930), 301-302.
this morning I went to school leaving her quite sick. hoped to find her better at noon, but no, they said she was worse, at night no better, midnight no better, and I began with the rest to be alarmed. sent for another Dr. and to our joy her suffer- ings were soon lessened and a little daughter was born unto them, about six o clock Tuesday morn. Carrie as comfortable as could be expected.... [March 12, 1859] Saturday March 12. I am glad this week is to an end. how sick I am of living or staying! [March 14, 1859] Monday the scholars began to see what they could do. oh, how
218 |
Mary Sears Journal
219
trying they were. to provoke me the boys
brought a mouse into school to disturb
us. As I could not learn which
one did it, and knowing all had some to do with it, I
punished all the boys which
greatly offended some and their parents.
[March 15, 1859] Tuesday they grew worse. I spent the night to Mr.
Bush's.
time passed pleasantly, for again we had
a sugar eat.5 which is quite new to me. I
like Mr. Bush's family very much....
[March 18, 1859] Friday. the boys and some the girls destroyed my
ferule re-
fused to obey me etc. etc. completely
disheartened I went to Mr. Peets, one of the
directors, to spend the night. very
unpleasant stormy night myself about sick.
[March 19, 1859] Saturday.
Directors in School-terrible times-expelled one
boy. no School this afternoon, felt
almost dead when I reached home....
[March 27, 1859] Sabbath 27. Almost started for church today but it
looking so
much like rain we finily gave it up, and
sure enough it has rained and the day has
passed away at home. have had great deal
to do so have not rested as I would have
been glad too, but I hope when I get out
of school that I can feel a little more free,
and enjoy the day of rest more. have
today read some sermons upon the "immor-
tality of the souls of the wicked, or
unbelievers" and "the second death," and
learned many new ideas, some of which
look very reasonable and I intend to look
into them more ere long. This begins the
last week of my school. happy shall I be
when 'tis all over with. I almost dread
to enter upon the untried scenes of the week.
however I go relying wholly upon God's
Omnipotent Arm for strength and I know I
cannot fall while he sustaines me. What
could I do had I no Heavenly Father to go
to for assistance and trust in for aid!!
O how much we have to be thankful for! I
should ever rejoice that He has deigned
to bless me thus far and given me a way
whereby I may come to Him. O for a
thousand tongues to speak His praises! ...
[March 30, 1859] Wednesday.
some things rather trying but not trouble. this
day is the last before I am 21 years of
age. yes another year has rolled away since
my birthday, and oh, what changes! but
all dealt in so much mercy! through what
scenes I have passed and what trials
met! but God has neither left me nor forsaken
me. He has been my Rock my strong
Defence and Refuge in times of trouble!
what a debt of gratitude I owe Him! Aye!
my tongue can never half return thanks
for all His ways of mercy with me. how I
have been brought on my way in life! ...
[March 31, 1859] 31st My birth day, 21 years old today! what an
important era
in life! which way will my barque be
steered for the future? I feel that this is one
harbor in the voyage of life from which
I must sail: and my course be directed either
upward or downward God help me to see
aright and direct me according to His
pleasure. then I shall avoid the rocks
and shoals which may lie in my course. I
want more of Christ in my soul to give
me life and strength to combat with the
things of this world for I know my self
is perfect weakness, and I would abide in
Christ alone for protection. I feel to
rejoice and praise God that I have ever been
the recipient of His bounty and favor
How good the Lord has been to me through
all my life! and is His ear heavy that
it cannot hear or His arm shortened that it
cannot save in days to come? no, thanks
be to His name, He is willing yea rejoices
to bless those who seek His face and
favor and may I in all my future life be often
found before the mercy seat with a
petition. It has been a most lovely day the sun
shining warm and pleasant, the wind
rather boistrous, but all calm at sunset. so
5. "Sugaring off," or the
process of boiling down maple syrup, usually occasioned a party. Commonly
called "sugar eats," these
parties were highlighted by the serving of maple sugar or candy.
220 OHIO
HISTORY
may my life be calm and happy the coming
years...
[April 1, 1859] April 1st Lovely day without. my school closed today.
so I was
happy, though some I was sorry to part with. Committee
present gave much praise
to teacher and spoke of the improvement
the scholars had made in their studies.
said nothing had been left undone
by their teacher, thought it the best school they
ever visited &c, &c, &c.
Scholars all pleasant and happy, all did well, the day
passed happily to all I trust. so closes
the term where so much has arisen to disturb
my repose; "all is well that ends
well." happy! happy!! Merry tonight! what a
weight of care, responsibility and
fearful apprehensions are lifted off my heart! ...
[April 10, 1859] Sabbath day
again how strange to me to have the Sabbath come
and go and no meeting any where near I
do most sincerely hope it may never by
my lot to settle way off in one side of
the world away from every body & every
thing. I do desire the privilage of
attending public worship and hearing the sound
of the church bell once more, for I have
not heard the Sabbath bell ring but once
since last Nov. in my own native town
what a heathenish country! think they need
missionaries here as much as in any
other barbarous country. no meeting steady,
occasionally a Universalist preacher in
the school house! which meetings I sometimes
attend, because I cannot get any where
else and do want to get out somewhere.
Though I do not believe their doctrine
by any means and some times my con-
science reproves me for listening to
what I do not believe to be true, however I can
hear and remember all that is good, if
any, and forget the rest.
[April 16, 1859] Saturday 16th. another week has gone. I can hardly see
anything
that has been accomplished though I have
been busy about something all the while.
made some calls and received some and
Thursday eve. attended a public lecture
subject-slavery-very good, any way I was
glad of an excuse to get out doors again.
I never saw a place so completely shut
out from everything as this is. I am thankful
my home is among civilized people at
least....
[May 16, 1859] Monday went into School found all bright and happy, 23
in No.
expect more soon. I pray God's blessing
to remain with me and may this term be
pleasant and profitable to all: I will
try hard to do my duty and act wisely in all
cases and with Christ for a Helper I
believe all will work well.
[May 17, 1859] Tuesday things
pass pleasantly and if they could remain so how I
should love my school....
[June 7, 1859] Tuesday in School again, petty trials to tempt and try
me. oh! for
strength and grace to enable me to do
right.
[June 9, 1859] Thursday, very much tried in school, almost
discouraged, then
something whispers in my ear "fear
not God is on your side." so courage is strong
then and my spirits revived....
[June 15, 1859] Wednesday no school-went to Huntington to "Common
School
Convention." 700 present. great
times marching &c. &c. dinner in the woods. ad-
dress delivered then, when the wind blew
so high that scarcely anything could be
heard. when part had received their refreshments,
but before all had, a heavy
shower came upon us, which made all
hastily seek shelter anywhere. Messrs Hub-
bard, Elder, Bradner &c. threw a few
branches hastily together beside the fence un-
der which our company found
shelter, so I did not get wet at all, though most did
get very wet, and my clothes were much
mashed. merry times in that temporary
shanty, with plenty of cake and
lemonade. After the rain was over we came out
all right marched with the others
after the music, formed in a ring and was served
to nuts & candies, on
account of damp ground and thin shares Hubbard, very
Mary Sears Journal
221
thoughtful, provided me a provision box
to stand in, which kept my feet dry and my
health from exposure. great times
generally all around. reached Cousin Lymans
about 4 o clock. Coz. Andrew took me
home in the evening, when I found myself
very tired though quite pleased with the
day's exercises. Thursday, Friday & Sat. in
school, everything passed off very well
considering-so another week has gone....
[June 27, 1859] Monday.
beginning of another week and rather dubious at that.
quite a jargon in the other room this
morn, and tonight a regular "tongue to tongue"
between them and Oscar and Carrie. think
they treated O. & C. inhuman and I can
never think as well of them again. I
really pity poor Oscar, as I do any one who has
to put up with such abuse, especially
from one's own family, ten thousand pities that
Oscar ever tried to live here with his
family, but I earnestly hope the time is not dis-
tant when he will go from here and know
what it is to live happily and peacably.
And I hope it may never be my lot to
live with anothers parents. so long as they are
able to take care of themselves, they
had better, & when they become helpless then I
am willing to take care of them as well
as I can. But it has certainly caused Oscar &
Carrie many unhappy hours just by living
here with that family. I also hope all are
not dispositioned like them. if they
were I should pity the world more than I now
do, and deplore more still the faults of
mankind.. .6
[July 25, 1859] Monday. Quite glad to hear from the Committee that,
though
with much hesitation, they would let me
off when this week was done. Expected to
be in school today again, but the
funeral of Mrs. W. being at the schoolhouse, I am
excused from this days labor there. very
warm. attended the funeral, large con-
corse of people, very impressive and
solemn occasion, as she was cut down in lifes
prime with little preparation after
leading a wild idle life, only about 22 years of
age.
Several calls on Carrie after services.
the Committee sent me word I might be ex-
cused from returning to school at all
again, since they had learned that most of the
scholars were coming down with the
whooping cough, &c. how welcome the news! I
almost danced for joy, as did Carrie
&c. now I feel free again, believe I shall soon
regain health & strength and be
young again Surely I have been led in a way I
know not of, and my course has been
marked out by an unerring hand. I will trust
in Providence more fully in future,-God
assisting me-and seek more constantly to
be guided only by His will who doeth all
things well....
[August 15, 1859] Monday morn.... have rec'd a letter from Mrs. M. Ayres
of
Columbus inviting me to visit them, and
think I shall soon.
[September 3, 1859] Sept 3rd. For three weeks have been very busy; tending
sick
baby some, getting ready to visit
Columbus &c. &c. &c. And now have arranged to
leave for C. next Tuesday, since I hear
that Warren will be here soon for me to ac-
company him to Amboy;7 busy
time indeed all round! feel pretty well tired out, not
having rested but little since baby came
down with whooping cough, but think I
may find it some time. Carrie worn down
too but hope now the babe is gaining she
may also....
[September 5, 1859] Monday very busy, all things arranged for a
start tomorrow.
Oscar to carry me to the depot at noon.
6. This entire page was erased,
suggesting that Mary had second thoughts about her entry. Never-
theless, it remains legible.
7. Warren, Mary's older brother, was at
this time residing in Amboy, Illinois. Warren and his wife, the
former Nancy Ives, eventually moved to
Burlington, Kansas, where Warren established the firm of Sears
& Wattles, Druggists.
222
OHIO HISTORY
[September 6, 1859] Tuesday night,
after a pleasant ride of about 90 miles arrived
in Columbus city safely. Mr. Ayres met
me at the depot and conducted me to his
residence on Town St. No 167, where Mrs.
Ayres extended to me a friendly greet-
ing.8 pleasant chat through the evening.
Mr. Hall's people called in a while: every-
thing nice and tasty about the house.
find them living in good style. among the
first, retired to rest,-have had a
delightful day, pleasant without and within hope
to enjoy my stay with them, as doubtless
I shall. And with a grateful heart and joy-
ful tongue I offer thanks to God for all
His Mercies, and seek my pillow.
[September 7, 1859] Wednesday. delightful day-A.M. visited the State Prison
(where Mr Ayres has business) much
interested in viewing it from top to bottom.
it contains nearly 900 convicts. with
feelings of mingled horror and pity I viewed
them. some, their very looks condemned
them, while others seemed to almost lan-
guish for pity and sympathy.9
In the P.M. visited the State house or
Capitol, and listened to an address from the
Hon.(?) Stephen Douglass, untill quite
tired10 then went shopping some, met sev-
eral New Englanders to whom Mrs. A. gave
me an introduction. returned home-
calls from Mrs. Hall & daughter,
Mrs. Stone &c. &c.
I must not omit to mention Miss Nellie
Merrill a lady teacher in the Gram School
of which Mr. Train is principal. boarder
of Mrs. Ayres, who is really interesting
and good I know I shall like her, though
she is not the Nellie M. I use to know-Mr.
A. took us to ride about the city some
delightful drives I think out into the coun-
try-
[September 8, 1859] Thursday.
Awoke at 5 o clock this morn, and accompanied
Mr. Ayres to Market. very amusing
and interesting scene for me, as I had never
seen anything of the kind before. it
gave me a good relish for breakfast, after which
I wrote letters, played upon the eolian
&c. P.M. shopping, receiving calls &c. &c.
Evening accompanied Mr. Ayres to Armory
Hall to hear the Spiritualist Miss E.
Harding upon subject given by members of
the ordinance, which was, "The Soul of
Man whence and what is it? and what its
destiny after death? do all animals pos-
sess the same never dying principle?
quite interesting and ably handled, doubtless
quite familiar to her. I do not by any
means endorse her views yet I gained some
new ideas: still, think the less of such
a person hears the better for them.11
[September 9, 1859] Friday A.M. Rode six miles into the country with Miss
Hat-
tie Hall & Brother, very pleasant
ride and fine times. passed through a good lay of
8. Mr. and Mrs. A. W. Ayres. In
partnership with Mr. Hall, mentioned in the following line, Mr.
Ayres owned Hall, Ayres & Co., carriage bent work
manufacturers. Lathrop's Columbus Directory,
1860-1862 (Columbus, 1860), 36.
9. Mary is referring to the State
Penitentiary, the third prison built in Columbus. Located on West
Spring Street and completed in 1834, it
was originally designed to house 500 convicts; in later years, how-
ever, the growing number of inmates
necessitated several expansions. Inventory of the County Archives
of Ohio, No. 25, Franklin County (Columbus, 1942), 30.
10. The most prominent political leader
of the time, Douglas drew a sizable crowd. As the Ohio
Statesman (Columbus), September 8, 1859, reported, the
"Little Giant" delivered his address from "the
east portico of the State House where a
stand had been erected, and where Maier's Band were dis-
coursing excellent music to the assembly
in waiting, which covered as compactly as people could stand
the elevated flagged space, which is
about two hundred and fifty feet long by about eighty feet wide. The
vast steps and rotunda, the windows and
every nook and corner of the east side of the State House, were
also filled with ladies and
gentlemen."
11. In a brief account of Emma Hardinge
Britten's lecture at Armory Hall, the Ohio State Journal (Co-
lumbus), September 9, 1859, reported
that it was "very well attended" and that Miss Hardinge "handled
the subject chosen for her with ability,
and to the satisfaction of the audience."
country, which from the crops should judge were very productive farms: after we re- turned I wrote a letter to Carrie before dinner, after which, with Mrs. Ayres called on Miss Hall, then went shopping, pleasant time-was introduced to many New Englanders, some who were acquainted with friends of mine. Then went to ride with Mr. & Mrs. Ayres, about the city &c. Evening spent at home. Miss Merrill's friends-Mr. & Mrs. Childs from N. York state here, time passed pleasantly withall. [September 10, 1859] Saturday, very rainy and unpleasant. had expected to go 20 miles into the country, but now the idea is given up, so all visited the state house, from top to bottom, even up more than 100 steps, to the top of the tower from whence a delightful view of the city & surrounding country was presented to view, which well repays one for the fatigue of ascending. visited all the different rooms. was introduced to all the state officers, Gov. Chase among the No.:12 The senate & Representative Hall are magnificent: center chandelier of each cost $1800. four smaller ones in each costing $1200 a piece; curtains to windows $80 each: indeed the whole building is elegant, one of which Ohio may well be proud.13 Was very greatly interested in view of it. and description as given by Mr. Cole, secretary of state, who aided us about the Capital.14 Mr. Childs people left at 2 o clock p.m. though very rainy, and I spent the remainder of the day in reading, writing &c. &c. [September 11, 1859] Sabbath day, Attended Sec'd Presbyterian Church-Rev.
12. Salmon Portland Chase, governor of Ohio from 1856 to 1860. 13. Mary's awe typifies popular reaction to the new Statehouse. Building commissioners who affirmed that the "degree of civilization and knowledge prevailing in a community is always clearly designated by its works of art, and by none more than its architecture," had spent lavishly in an effort to erect a State- house whose "beauty and grandeur" would "comport with the dignity and wealth of the state." Still, this monument to civic pride was not immediately completed; though it was opened to the public on January 6, 1857, spiralling costs brought construction to a halt on November 15, 1861. Expenditures at that time totaled $1,359,121.45. Ohio, Executive Documents, "Annual Report of the Superintendent of State House 1861," (1862), Part 1, p. 326. 14. Mary was misinformed. Addison P. Russel, a Republican, served as Ohio's Secretary of State from 1858 to 1862. Edward Howard Gilkey, The Ohio Hundred Year Book (Columbus, 1901), 425. 223 |
224 OHIO
HISTORY
Morris pastor,15 preached
from Psalms 128: P.M. addressed the S. School. evening
at home Abell Hall in a while to chat.
[September 12, 1859] Monday. wrote
letters, and commenced hemp mat for Mrs.
A.; P.M. went shopping & calling.
evening attended party at Dr. Lords-Super-
entendant of Blind asylum16-some 40 or
50 present. mostly of the Professional
class, time passed pleasantly. Supper
consisted of cold Turkey, smoked meat,
bread, biscuit, butter cheese, peaches
in cream, fruit cake, white-jelly-assortment
cakes grapes, pears, ice creams, tea,
coffee, water &c. &c. Returned home past 10
o clock.
[September 13, 1859] Tuesday Morn
at home, work on mats, singing-playing
&c. P.M. went to ride with Mr. &
Mrs. Ayres, visited green lane [Green Lawn]
cemetery, three miles South west of the city, delightful place
for the silent repose of
dreamless sleepers. being a natural
forest thickly studded with elegant marble
monuments raised in memory of the
departed. evening spent at Mr. Halls very
pleasantly indeed.
[September 14, 1859] Wednesday A.M.
visited schools in com. with Miss Merrill
Mr. Train Principal of Gram. School, she
assistant. Misses Treat & Dunbar Teach-
ers in High school Miss Vance in
intermediate department. much pleased with all.
at home to dinner then accompanied Mr.
Ayres family to the county fair grounds-
two miles east of city. large collection
of people, pleasant times then rode around
the city down to State Prison, saw all
the prisoners march in companies to supper of
brown bread and water, I could but pity
them, though they may be deserving such
treatment, after supper, saw them all go
to their cells where they were confined for
the night, poor erring mortals, by their
own folly shut out from the world and
doomed to share the felons portion:
should it not be a warning to those who as yet
are within the reach of mercy!
[September 15, 1859] Thursday busy
all day in making silk dress, with help of a
good dress maker finished it in time to
dress for company in the evening, invited by
Mrs. Ayres. very pleasant social time.
enjoyed it much, retired to rest feeling very
weary and fatigued.
[September 16, 1859] Friday. A.M.
on the Fair grounds. P.M. making ready for
party in the evening given by Mrs.
Ayres. larger than last eve. a very merry lively
company 40 in number, excellent oyster
supper first of the season, every thing nice
and pretty, passed of well.
[September 17, 1859] Saturday, with Mrs. Ayres made some calls in the
morning
visited the different asylums in the
city, then rode to Goodell Park, two miles north
west the city, gathered flowers there
&c. rode around by state prison home, took an
early dinner where Mr. Ayres carried me
to the Depot on my way home. after a
pleasant-and I trust profitable sojourn
of two weeks in their pleasant family, which
will ever be remembered by me with
pleasure, and gratitude for their kindness in
making every thing so pleasant for me: I
like the city of Columbus much, almost
wish I was engaged in teaching school
here: such an excellent opportunity is of-
15. Edward D. Morris, pastor of the
Second Presbyterian Church, was renowned for his eloquence.
He is best remembered for a moving
address delivered in June 1861 in which he paid tribute to the life
and services of the late Stephen A.
Douglas. Francis P. Weisenburger, Columbus During the Civil War
(Columbus, 1963), 9.
16. Asa D. Lord, Superintendent of the
Blind Asylum, had previously served as Superintendent of Co-
lumbus Public Schools (1852-1856). Jacob
H. Studer, Columbus, Ohio: Its History, Resources, and Prog-
ress, with Numerous Illustrations (Columbus, 1873), 354.
fered for me to improve in keeping good society, attending instructive lectures &c. &c. &c.-After a pleasant ride reached Rochester about 6 P.M. where Oscar was waiting for me. and told me Warren had arrived from Mass. and waiting for me: found all well at Carries and glad to see me again: felt very tired, almost sick so re- tired to bed early. [September 18, 1859] Sabbath. Though sick, yet got ready and went to Hunting- ton to church and to see brother Warren and family. spent the P.M. with him at Cos. Lymans, took tea at Edwards. then went to Rochester, carrying the idea in my head that Warren was to leave on Thursday for Ill, and I must accompany him. which idea Oscar & Carrie were slow to endorse.... [September 22, 1859] Thursday. Awoke early found it raining hard, but all the house was astir so of course I must move also. went below, found all at breakfast, thinking I should not be able to go, had not aroused me, but with a few mouthfuls of food hastily swallowed, I soon made myself ready to start with the rest. all was in a hurry, no time for any thing. now glad I had so long a chat with O. & C. last evening. was too much excited to tell how I felt, so reluctantly we bade each other good bye and started for the depot. Oscar taking us there-very muddy and un- pleasant getting there, but once there, we soon bade adieu to Rochester the mighty engine rapidly whirling us onward. At Grafton Station we were detained four hours, and to while away the time I wrote a little letter to friend Selah:17 chatted with those likewise detained and thus the time passed: took some medicine here. and soon the train west arrived when we immediately left for Toledo, where after a pleasant ride-though I was too sick to enjoy it much, we arrived about three o clock P.M. Again were soon "singing through the forests" passing into Indiana &c. should have enjoyed it all much if
17. References elsewhere in the journal suggest that Selah was a suitor whom Mary had left behind in Greenwich. 225 |
226 OHIO
HISTORY
well, and now Warren and Nancy did every
thing to make it pleasant for me. At
La Porte stopped to supper, and about
midnight reached Chicago. stopped at the
Mussorit house, rested very well
and next morning felt some better, though could
not get along very well without the
Jamaca ginger which Warren has with him of
which I have taken several times on our
way thither: left Chicago at 8 o clock A.M.
very pleasant riding over the prairie,
something new to me, liked it much: arrived in
Amboy, past 1 o clock P.M. Friends at
the depot to greet us. went to Warren's Fa-
ther Ive's to dinner,18 rested
some time then came to Eliza's home with her. soon
Myra & Husband came in. Chauncey Julia,
&c.19 all glad to see me, as I was to see
them, felt very tired, at an early hour
went to rest.
[October 1, 1859] Hardly able to be about Saturday. did not go to church
on
Sunday. Monday only able to drag about.
all anxious to have some thing done for
me, and with over persuasion went with
Eliza to see Dr. Adams,20 on Tuesday P.M.
He gave me medicine. thought I should be
better soon came to see me on
Wednesday-Thur, Friday & Saturday. I
have no appetite and feel most miserable
generally Most feel the ague is
about me,...
[January 15, 1860] Jan 15. Attended church at the Congregational today.
lis-
tened to an excellent discourse this
morn; subject: the different kinds of religion-
four in No. viz. of Form, of Feeling, of
Sentiment and of Principle, each defined and
explained, very interesting and
instructive; Subject this afternoon-the Prodigal
son-; Speaker not smart as the one who
spoke this Morning.-went to Warren's to
dinner, & took supper with Chauncey,
came back to James' in the evening....
[February 8, 1860] Wednesday.
After dinner went with the crowd to Rocky Ford
to attend the Sewing circle at Mrs.
Dutchers. a very large company present, all ap-
peared to enjoy it exceedingly, remained
there untill after eleven o clock, arrived
home little past midnight, almost dead
from fatigue ...
[February 14, 1860] Tuesday;
Several calls. I called on Myra, made her a present
of head dress. Evening, attended
Donation Party at Baptist Church, nice times,
very tired; was also invited to attend
"Leap year party" at "Passenger house,"21 but
preferred the Donation party;
home 1 1/2 o clock....
[March 10, 1860] Saturday.
March 10. been very busy all this week; lovely
weather. Called on Myra Monday evening;
Tuesday evening went with them to
Methodist Donation. very pleasant
company, but I got very tired and we came
home before ten o clock: rested all day
Wednesday, then in the evening went with a
company of young people to a
"Supprise Party" at Dea. Luce's; very nice place to
go and visit but some of the company
rather boistrous and rude so I wished myself
at home; took a severe cold and have
suffered from it ever since. Friday spent the
day to Chau's: Saturday, callers in
evening Miss Bennett & Mr. Chase here to sing.
18. William E. Ives, Warren's
father-in-law, settled in Amboy in 1854. Recognized as one of the city
fathers, he signed the township charter
on December 30, 1856. Ives was the first practicing attorney in
Lee County and served as mayor of Amboy
from 1861 to 1863. Anthony J. Becker. The Biography of a
Country Town: U.S.A. (Amboy, 1954), 113.
19. In Amboy, Mary resided with an older
sister, Eliza. and her husband, James F. Powers. In addi-
tion to James and Eliza and Warren and
Nancy, Mary's family in Amboy included another older sister,
Myra, the wife of Charles J. Matthews,
and another older brother, Chauncy, who was married to the for-
mer Julia Mason.
20. Richard F. Adams, physician and
politician, was one of Amboy's most colorful citizens. Frank E.
Stevens, "Forgotten Statesmen of
Illinois: Richard F. Adams," Journal of the
Illinois Stale Historical
Society, XXII (January 1930), 625-640.
21. The Passenger House, the railroad
hotel, was the last regular hotel in Amboy; it was destroyed by
fire in 1875. Becker, Biography of a
Country Town, 107.
Mary Sears Journal 227
Eliza not able to sing with us. will not
go to church tomorrow, for which I am sorry.....
[March 15, 1860] Thursday. Went
with James seven miles into the country after
a hired girl. quite a pleasant ride out,
but very tiresome back, and felt completely
exhausted before I reached home. In our
ride we passed over the ground once fa-
miliar to the Prairie Banditti who then
infested this part of Ill. and occupied the very
house we called to, everything looked
forbidding and repulsive in the extreme, tho
years have passed since they were
compelled to flee-some of them suffering the
penalty of Law while others fled none
knew whither:22 also passed the house occu-
pied by the widow of a man who was
doomed to be hung for the murder of a young
lady. and while lying in Prison awaiting
the execution his wife visited him carrying
to him a razor, with which he put an end
to his miserable life, by cutting his throat,
thus escaping the fulfillment of the
law. many other incidents connected with our
ride making it interesting,
though giving rise to bitter thoughts....
[March 28, 1860] Wednesday,
Called on Myra, went with her shopping, then
home: evening at the Baptist
Social held at the Basement of church. very pleasant
company; ice cream & cake for
refreshments.
[March 29, 1860] Thursday, Went
to Mrs. Badgers stopped untill after dinner:
returned home found company here-evening
went with Eliza to call on Mrs. Levi
Ives, spent the evening pleasantly.
[March 30, 1860] Friday. Mrs.
Phillips & Miss Underwood visited here this P.M.;
evening attended "Philomathean
Society"23 at Mechanic's hall; exhabition very
good.
[March 31, 1860] Saturday, The last of the week and month, and first of
my
twenty-second year: yes! another day, week, month, and year
has flown-whither;
Who can tell what changes may be made in
the coming year One year ago, I
knew not where I might now be, neither
can I tell my destiny one year hence: I may
be sleeping in Death's embrace.-God
grant my grace and strength for what ever
may await me in the future. I find much
in the past for which to give thanks, and I
trust I am grateful for all God's
merices to me, in restoring my health in such a
measure: in giving me kind friends and
sparing me many trials which others are
called to endure....
[April 3, 1860] Tuesday, James called the Dr. for Eliza last night. she
not able to
sit up today. thinks she will be
confined today. her demonstrations of distress
make me very nervous and she strongly
urges me to go to Mr. Merrigold's visiting
this afternoon: soon after dinner he
came for me I went, enjoyed my visit much:
excepting constant thoughts of Eliza's
sufferings troubled me: evening, attended
"Institute Lecture"24 with
Chs. Merrigold. not very deeply interested in the lecture;
on reaching home, found a little
stranger had arrived about half past six o clock:25
was then quietly resting in the arms of
one of the ladies present: Eliza was very
22. The prairie banditti, also known as
the "Bandits of Nauvoo," were outlaws who used the small vil-
lage of Inlet, Illinois, as their base
of operations from 1840 to 1850. The man responsible for their cap-
ture and dispersal, United States
Marshal Edward Bonney, recounts his adventures in The Banditti of the
Prairies; or, The Murderer's Doom!! A
Tale of the Mississippi Valley (reprinted,
Norman, 1963).
23. Amboy's literary club.
24. The agenda of the Teachers'
Institute, a professional conference, typically included an opening ad-
dress on the state of the profession,
the reading of pedagogical papers, literary recitations, and evening
socials with singing and refreshments.
25. Herbert Francis Powers, the only
child of James and Eliza, died September 10, 1860, two weeks af-
ter Mary's last journal entry.
228 OHIO HISTORY
comfortable, more so than I expected to
find her: they say she was very sick for a
few hours: then became very comfortable.
[April 4, 1860] Wednesday: at
home with Eliza all day: she wished me to attend
the "Teacher's Institute"
convened here this week: but I preferred to be with her:
and do all I can to make her
comfortable; and thus in a measure return some of her
kind attentions to me since I came here:
in the evening attended Lecture: found
her very comfortable on my return home:
she seems much pleased with her dear
little baby boy, and doubtless
contemplates many bright hours in the future, should
both their lives be spared, and the babe
appears quite healthy and well....
[April 5, 1860] Evening: Attended last Institute lecture, which was
good, the best
of all I have listened to this week.
after which all were invited to Hon. J. C. Jacobs,
to spend the remainder of the evening
and partake of refreshments prepared for
them. about 200 went. time passed
pleasantly. refreshments consisted of coffee,
tea, sandwiches, three kinds of
cake, apples raisons, oranges, &c. a lovely evening
and to close with the brass band played
Home sweet home. returned home very
tired indeed after so much
excitement....
[April 7, 1860] Saturday. Soon
after getting in bed last night I heard Eliza groan-
ing in distress: arose, dressed, came
down and found her in great agony from acute
pain in her right side: I feared it was
in her Tumor but she thought not: Mary26 and
myself did everything we and she could
think of with but little effect. I was very
anxious to call the Dr. but Eliza said
no, as he was not very well she would get along
without him if possible: but she grew no
better, and about one o clock we call
James up and sent for the Dr. she found
some relief before morning but she still
suffered greatly. I then went to rest,
leaving Eliza in the care of Mrs. Wallace, who
when I arose told me E. had suffered
intensely all the while and more or less lost in
mind: She knew me seemed glad to have me
near her, as I truly was glad to be.
Large numbers called to see her, but few
were admitted to her room, as the greatest
quiet was needed on account of her being
so exceedingly nervous, from extreme suf-
fering. The Dr. informed me that her
recovery was very doubtful, the tumor
being the occasion of all her present
distress. (Just as I feared at first) oh who can
imagine my distress when he told me
that! The whole truth burst upon me!!
friends came and gathered around her
bedside; she often spoke the name of
"James" and "Mary,"
but took little notice of anything. the good Dr. kind and at-
tentive called often through the day and
did all in his power to alley her pains and
distress: but relief was only temporary.
the cause could not be reached as he
kindly and frankly told us. still he
hoped, and so did we all; we prayed that "if pos-
sible, this cup might pass from us:" we earnestly
besought God to bless the means
used for her recovery and spare her to
us yet a good while.27 night came-many
kind friends and neighbors came to
render some assistance. nothing was left un-
done: Dr. Adams came in during the
night, closely watched the effect of his medi-
cines: but on Sabbath morn hope had
almost died in the hearts of many. We see
but too plainly that she had greatly
failed during the night, a film now partly
clouded those lovely eyes of blue and
they told me she would ere long go from our
gaze, but I could not believe! I prayed
and hoped that as God in the most extreme
moment did restore to consciousness our
dear Father when all thought him dying:
26. Mary Osborn, the housekeeper whom
James had hired on March 15, 1860.
27. At some point in Saturday's entry,
possibly here, Mary temporarily discontinued her account; internal
evidence indicates that she resumed it
on Tuesday night, April 10, without noting it as a separate entry.
Mary Sears Journal
229
so now was he able to make His power
manifest, and we earnestly pleaded that so
He would do: nothing was left undone. we
made her comfortable as possible, but
such a burning infammation and
fever in her tumor and bowels, nothing could
make her easy-I shall ever remember with
pleasure how delighted she was with the
ice & ice water we continually gave
her, she almost felt that it would cure her-even
in this last moment. I did not leave her
bedside for any length of time; twas with
bitter tears I obeyed their command to
go out and "at least, drink a cup of tea." I
told them the time seemed too
precious: I could not for a moment
loose sight of
her dear face: though her extreme sufferings
almost chilled my hearts young
blood-would that it had-! all the
brothers & sisters remained with her, while her
dear grief stricken husband, almost
disparingly, sat at her head, administering every
kind loving attention in his power:
-they tell me many, even to above a hundred,
called to see our dear Eliza during the
day, and many remained with us to assist.
Eliza was unconscious to appearance much
of the time, but always recognized the
voice of her dear James, (as she
so often called him), and to his questions to her
readiness to go home to Jesus, she would
reply in monosyllables, of ready "happy,
yes, yes, happy" was Jesus calling
for her? "yes, calling, calling," when a heavenly
smile would light her countenance: ah!
what a sweet consolation to the stricken
friends to hear from her own lips the
words, "ready, willing"! She could with diffi-
culty get breath, or swallow what was
put into her mouth, and continued to vomit,
quite often, with great distress, very alarming
matter of a dark green color: which-
since I have learned was a most sure
index of mortification. -O how terrible it ap-
pears when I think of it, her sufferings
were so great, so much more than she made
manifest-. About four o clock
P.M. she seemed to arouse somewhat. and calling
for each of us by name bade us farewell
and kissed us; then was soon lost, in mind,
Julia being the last who came to her:
she was too far gone to recognize, and did not
bestow upon her the parting kiss; O I
knew then that she must go from us. God
had indeed called her; and in mercy had
granted her consciousness enough to rec-
ognize us for the last time on earth;
for this we will praise Him, for twas indeed a
consolation to hear her once more call
our names so sweetly and smile so gently, as
she said "dont weep for me dont
weep"-aye dear Eliza, and must we give thee up
so soon! can we not hear thy sweet voice
in singing more on Earth? and will thy mild
blue eye beam brightly on us no more? oh
sweet sister, can it be thus, that God's
decreed? She continued to fail gradually
through the night: still hope lit up my
heart as they told me she was more
comfortable about 11 o clock and with much
persuasion I consented to go to my room
and lie down for a while, but we had not
been there long, when they called us,
saying she was evidently sinking fast. I could
not realize it! but oh twas too true; I
bent over my loved Eliza and kissed her. her
lips moved a kiss in return, e'en though
she could not speak; I begged of the Dr.
(who had so kindly remained with us all night) to do something
more: I urged and
implored with my arms thrown around him
that he would do something more for
the poor sufferer; he replied, "all
had been done that could avail anything, twas not
in the power of man to shield her from
death's stroke"-I knew it and felt it, yet
could not believe, and thus we labored,
watched, mourned and wept untill half past
five o clock in the morning of monday
when they told me her spirit had departed; it
could not be! so gently had her spirit
fled: her breath growing shorter and fainter
untill she gasped once-twice-thrice-and
was no more! -O the sorrow of that
hour who can tell! for the first time in
my life I bent o'er the cold remains of a dear and
near friend and relative! ne'er shall I
forget!! Soon, kind friendly hands turned to
230 OHIO
HISTORY
perform the sad duties of arranging the casket
for burial-now that the jewel was
taken home to God: I begged the
privilage of arranging her hair for the last time-
'twas granted me-and with feelings
undescribable Sister Myra and myself combed
and placed those golden tresses just as
she always wore them: then-covering her
marble brow with kisses and tears, we
left her again in the hands of kind ladies: -a
terrible thunder storm last night and
still raining today-yet every one was good and
kind in assisting in all things-now the
solemn bell-which so oft had called dear
Eliza to church and to sing, in mournful
notes told the villagers she had "gone
Home to die no more," and was now
singing far sweeter songs, then e'er was heard
on earth-yes she had passed away-as all
things must!! Toward evening-accord-
ing to her request-a Post Mortum
examination was made and the tumor taken
from her side; larger than my head,
weighing 101/2 lbs, parts of it all ready mortified
and going to decay. but by seeing it we
could judge a little of what she must suf-
fered for years before her death, and
doubtless would have suffered much more had
her life been prolonged: we marvel that
she lived so long as she did, and was ever
so cheerful and happy while suffering so
extremely constantly, but God ordereth all
things aright and doeth all things well.
The Tumor is to be preserved and placed
in the Medical College at Chicago, and a
minute account of its character, formation,
and location published for the benefit
of the world and good of those who may be
suffering likewise: - - So monday
passed, the saddest of all days I ever knew!
what pen can in the least shadow forth
our feelings and thoughts.! it all seems
more a dream than reality-would that it
were but a dream-! but little sleep for
any of us on Monday night-and
Tuesday-must we lay her away, deep in the dark
damp earth today! so they tell me, and
preparations were made for the funeral at two
o clock P.M. the saddest of all tasks-to
dress in black for my lovely sister's funeral.
prayer at the house at one o
clock-procession formed and marched to the church-
house crowded to overflowing-sermon by
Rev. Phelps of Lee Center-Elder Miller
being absent-excellent-music by the
choir-"Mt verono, China & [space left
blank]." Revs Brodenax & and Martin also present and
assisted in the services.- -
Then procession of carriages, forty in
number; slowly wended their way to the cem-
etery "Prairie Repose," where we were to leave the
precious clay: O twas sad, sad, to
lay her in the cold ground I could not
endure the thought, begged of them not to
do so: but oh, I see them lower her down
down into that deep dark vault, from
whence she returneth not again to us!-!
the choir then sang "Unvail thy bosom
faithful tomb"-in the tune
"Ward" the Minister said a few words-I know not
what-and we turned to go, as I heard the
cold earth fall upon her coffin hiding her
forever-in this world-from our view. we
reentered our carriages and slowly re-
turned homeward-with hearts almost
broken, and eyes blinded from weeping:
-reached home about six o clock.
-everything passed with solemnity order and
decorum: all gratitude and honor is due
to Messrs Chase and Barrell who were the
Directors for the occasion: -the table
was already spread when we came home,
and a broken circle gathered around it.
Chauncey & Julia remained with us
through the evening. Ada stayed all
night with me; duty compelled the others to
return to their homes. so this solemn
day closes....
On Sunday, April 21, only twelve days
after his wife's death, James developed a fever
accompanied by severe pain in his
right knee. Undoubtedly aggravated by grief over
Eliza's death, his condition rapidly
worsened, and within a few days he began to suffer
acute pain in his stomach and lungs.
Dr. Adams diagnosed the ailment as erysipelas
Mary Sears Journal 231
but was unable to relieve his
patient's suffering. By Thursday, May 3, death appeared
imminent, and-the family gathered at
James' bedside.
[May 3, 1860] He signified his desire to make his will and dispose of
his property
to his mind, consequently 'twas written
as he directed, and he with almost super-
natural strength, sat up in bed and
wrote his own name; The dear motherless babe
he gave into my care and keeping-to be a
mother to him-to love, care and do for
him as my own: a precious gift surely!
and may God in His wisdom give me pa-
tience grace and knowledge sufficient to
do my whole duty to him! and may he live
to be a blessing to us all and an honor
to God! great respnsibility rests upon me! too
great for me to bare without God's
sustaining hand-! His property left to the
babe-little Herbert Francis-and myself,
after the discharge of all his debts, and the
payment of $5.00 to each of his Father's
family: not an hour after he signed his will,
he called to be raised up, brother Chau.
raised him, he still called "lift me up, up,"
and so saying his countenance changed
and angels did, I trust, raise his spirit "up
up" to meet his loved Eliza. and
our hearts were again left to mourn....
[June 3, 1860] Sabbath. At
Cong. church this morn. Rev. Bragg of South Brook-
field, Mass. preached for us. liked him
well. I played for the choir, am to do so
while I remain in town. Afternoon,
attended Episcopal and sang, then evening
went again to hear Rev. Bragg, as the
choir wished me to be there to play, but al-
most sorry I went, as there came up an
awful thunder storm, which so disturbed me
that I scarcely heard one word he spoke.
[June 4, 1860] Monday, Have this morning heard of a most appalling tornado
which passed two miles north of here,
carrying away every in its path, clearing a
space of 40 rods or more, blowing down
trees, fences, crops, barns, houses &c &c
and destroying lives of all kinds of
beasts, with several persons-the most terrible of
anything that ever occurred in this
country.28 hundreds are flocking to the ruins to
see and assist if need be: never knew
such a sympathetic spirit as prevades the
whole village today, every one feels an
interest, each one makes it his own case, and
acts accordingly-terrible in the
extreme: went over to Dr. Adams' to see if he had
returned from the sad scene, that I
might learn the particulars, but he had not yet
returned: all medical skill was needed
among the dying and wounded: Warren and
Chau & Nancy went to see the ruins
today I could not leave the babe to go. -Mr.
Beach called this eve. to invite me to
take a ride tomorrow morning out among the
ruins, in company with Miss Bennett-glad
of an opportunity to go.
[June 5, 1860] Tuesday morn.
went with Beach, Miss Bennett & Nancy to ride,
started at 5 o clock, returned a little
past eight. lovely morning and a beautiful ride.
enjoyed it much: and with the exception
of being well tired out, feel much better for
having gone. I never saw or heard of
anything which would compare in any degree
with the awful apalling scene presented
to our view, through the whole course of the
storm so far as we rode-which was
several miles, in some places not enough of the
house is left in sight to tell what
'twas composed of or where it stood and to listen to.
the story, as told by those who shared
in the peril, is heartrending indeed, I cannot
keep it out of mind. we visited all the
grounds: and walked among the ruins of
some fine residences; the losses of some
are 4000 and 6000 dollars-as Judge Wood
28. The tornado touched down north of
Amboy on June 3, 1860. One of the more devastating dis-
asters in early Illinois history, it
received brief mention in the History of Lee County, Together with Bio-
graphical Matter, Statistic, Etc. (Chicago, 1881), 354.
232 OHIO HISTORY
& Mr. Martin Wright, Preston &c.
&c.-what a sad spectacle fruit trees torn up by
their roots and entirely stripped of
their foliage, shade trees twisted into every con-
ceivable shape or broken entirely down,
ground plowed up by the wind-horses
cattle & sheep killed without No.
Last night citizens called a meeting to assist the
suffers, appointed committee to solicit
contributions and they are out today; and
meet with fine success every one gives
with willing heart and hand.
I am thankful tis in my power to bestow
some good gift upon them. wish I could
do more. but every one seems to feel it
duty to help, & I hope a plenty will be had.
[June 23, 1860] Saturday June
23. Busy day & week these, sewing for baby &c
&c, with many calls and lots of
other things time all occupied have written a few
letters: every one still earnest for
those who were lost in the tornado; ...
[July 4, 1860] Wednesday, not
feeling well at all. callers today, as 'twas the
glorious fourth. had to make an extra effort to be smart-got up
a big dinner.
Myra Charlie & children and Geo.
Porter were here to dine with us. very nice time
indeed; after tea went with Nancy to
Myra's to eat ice cream, then went to Method-
ist festival a while; saw the wide
awakes come out in torch light procession
which was nice, came home quite early,
for I worried much about baby....
Depressed by the deaths of James and
Eliza, and fatigued by her new role as foster
mother, Mary decided to follow the
advice of family members that she leave the child
behind in Amboy and visit friends in
Pana, a newly settled community in southern
Illinois.
[August 14, 1860] Tuesday.
Packed my trunk for Pana, went down town shop-
ping. then called to say good bye to
Julia. wanted to see baby but could not get a
ride over there. heard from him, is
well. well tired out I retired early, slept a little
while, when Warren & Nancy and Chau.
came in to see me: they laughed & talked
untill near car time, then went home;
Myra made me a cup of tea, after which
Charlie started with me for the depot:
cars soon came and 15 moments of one
o clock A.M. I said good bye, and the
cars started: none aboard with whom I was
acquainted, save the conductor,-Mr. John
Henry-a resident of Amboy-chatted with
him occasionally, which whiled the,
otherwise, weary hours away: before I reached,
La Salle-about 30 miles-I began to be
weary and wish myself in Pana or Amboy-
very tired indeed, but soon livened up a
little as we neared a long bridge, which they
said was over Illinois river-little did
I once think I should ever see that river-:
passed on through Bloomington-a fine
place, where the State Normal School is lo-
cated, like the country about here much,
reached B. about 41/2 o clock, passed on
through Wapella to Decatur where we
stopped to breakfast, at 7 o clock, then pro-
ceeded to Pana, arrived at 81/2 o clock.
found Coz. Zelo29 at the depot waiting for
me: Mr. Henry very kind to me all the
way for which I returned my thanks: Pana
not so much of a place as I expected to
find: dont think it looks pleasant. Team
soon ready Zelo and myself started for
their home, 11/2 miles from
town on the wild
prairie; over a most miserable unseemly
road through deep ravines, up ruff steeps &
down into desolate vales: glad when he
halted before a little log house which he in-
formed me constituted their home. Hattie
looked natural as life, only little more
browned or tanned, glad to see me, and
soon we were chatting like on days of yore:
exceedingly tired and weary I soon laid
down to rest, remained on the bed most the
29. Zelo and Hattie remain unidentified.
Mary Sears Journal
233
day: Hattie gave me frequent doses of brandy,
which kept my spirits up. their log
house consists of one room 16 x 24, and
a small shanty kitchen; a bed quilt enclos-
ing one corner of their large
room constitutes a buttery or pantry, in another corner
is suspended a blanket, behind which is
a flight of steps into their chamber under-
neith which a clothes press is
formed for hanging articles of clothing: room car-
peted. good set of chairs, table,
trunks, &c. comprised the furniture of the room.
three windows and two doors.
[August 16, 1860] Thursday. Road
on Hattie's little pony, a little ways on a walk.
think I shall enjoy my visit much; not
yet rested from my journey: my back troubles
me so much. wish I could regain the
strength of back again. Some of their neigh-
bors called in. neighbors not very
plenty. Sent a letter to Myra....
[August 18, 1860] Sat. Mrs. Greenman called. have rode horse back, twice
a day,
can now pace a little a good pony
for me so steady.
[August 19, 1860] Sunday. Cloudy
and cool compared with the few past days:
thought of going to church but could not
get a team: Zelo started with horses to get
a wagon, horses got away, could not
ketch them again soon as they have a wide
prairie to roam over. gave up going to
church: read, and wrote in journal, so day
was spent, after tea, went with Hattie
on horseback two miles to visit the cemetery,
though it looked little like one to me,
but very few graves, each enclosed with ruff
board fence, some very good tombstones.
came and went directly across the
prairie, up high bluffs through deep ravines, & was
completely tired out before we
reached home. cannot ride much on
account of my back. too tired to rest much
tonight.
[August 20, 1860] Monday. A.M.
Sewed some on dress for my baby: very warm
all appearance of a shower, after
dinner, a hard shower of rain wind and hail;
never saw the like before, house
trembled and quivered. rain came down in tor-
rents and came through every crack and
crevice of the house; we were not long in
vacating the house proper and taking
shelter in the shanty kitchen, with everything
moveable in the room, expecting every
moment when the windows would come in:
never was so terrified by a thunder
storm as now. almost paralized with fear & ter-
ror. a perfect flood of water covers the
ground. hail stones in abundence came
pat-pat upon the roof of the shanty, and
the whole trembles and quakes. shower
lasted an hour. then rained more steady
with little or no wind or hail: but oh what
a leaking place: every thing drenched in
rain, every dish in Hattie's pantry filled
with water. beds wet. carpet soaked in
water &c. &c. but the house was nothing
compared with the havoc made of
vegetation: vines and corn stripped and demo-
lished, must certainly be a great loss
to the farmers. melons & cucumbers look as if
they had been pelted with pebble stones:
the ground looks as if a flood had swept
over it. never witnessed the like
before.
[August 21, 1860] Tuesday. A.M.
wrote a letter and cut melons for my part.
P.M. went with Hattie to neighbors-Mr.
Scotts-visiting. they are new comers also
into these dark regions.
live in a little tiny bit of a house, finished off very well,
everything looks neat and tidy. Mrs.
Scott a nice woman-no children-we had a
good supper, though she made many excuses & apologies
for her "Succor Supper"
which consisted of beautiful sweet potatoes
of their own raising, beaf steak, excel-
lent wheat bread & butter &
cheese, good tea, preserves, tomatoes, pickles & two
kinds of cake. all good-went through
their garden to see the desolation caused by
the storm. -rode home horse back while
Hattie & Zelo walked by my side. some
awful places to get through, water all
most reached my feet. -had an excellent
234 OHIO
HISTORY
visit, but returned quite tired out-
[August 22, 1860] Wednesday.
Zelo to work upon their house, putting up pantry,
&c. Hattie busy baking, and I am
writing. Hatt. thinks her home looks doleful:
but I quite enjoy the hubbub. after
dinner we got ready went (Hatt. afoot I on
horse back) to Mr. Scotts, for Mrs.
Scott to go to town with us. all poured into Mr.
Scotts large wagon, with his miserable
horse attached, and started about three
o clock, pleasant ride-that is fun a
plenty-do not think Pana a pretty place. every-
thing looks dirty and rowdyfied; called
in all their stores. poor apologies I think.
hogs in the street: and stagnant pools
of water, very offensive indeed: rec'd a letter
from Myra. sent word to them I should
return on Saturday-Providence willing.
arrived at Mr. Scotts about six. would
make us stop to tea. had prairie chickens
broiled, sweet potatoes &c. &c.
then rode home on horse. most tired to death: a
hard pain through side and back: wish I
could obtain relief from that.
[August 23, 1860] Thursday. All
in a hubbub again but glad to think they can go
forward and finish their house. to get
out of the noise, Hattie, Mrs. Scott & myself
went to visit Mrs. Greenman: a very
pleasant visit, enjoyed it much, but such awful
roads to get there I became frightened
to death almost, and got exceedingly tired
besides. did not get over it in all
night....
[August 26, 1860] Sunday. All
made ready to attend church, went in their large
wagon; but very few out to church today:
a young man preached a very good ser-
mon with congregational singing which
made all pass off much like "western meet-
ings" yet I was happy to be able to
attend church at all. Afternoon at home: time
spent in reading and conversing upon
biblical topics some, and some upon the van-
ity of worldly people, the sin of pride
and extravegance &c. &c. so passed the day
and with singing, reading eating melons
&c. passed the evening. we all retired at
an early hour, that we might get rested
ready for an early start in the morning, as I
must go home tomorrow. Mary's last
entry.
Two and a half years later, on May 8,
1863, Mary died and was laid to rest beside
James, Eliza, and the infant Herbert
Francis in the Prairie Repose Cemetery at Am-
boy.
Edited by
DARYL E. JONES
JAMES H. PICKERING
A Young Woman in the Midwest:
The Journal of Mary Sears, 1859-1860
Born in Greenwich, Massachusetts on
March 31, 1838, and trained as a music teacher,
Mary E. Sears was twenty years old in
the winter of 1859 when she began keeping a
journal of her daily thoughts and
activities while emigrating West to join family mem-
bers in Ohio and Illinois. During the
following two years she recorded a multitude of
experiences which span both distance
and social class: they range from her trials as a
rural schoolteacher in Rochester,
Ohio, to a tornado in the newly settled railroad town
of Amboy, Illinois; from the gala
social whirl of antebellum Columbus, where she
toured the Statehouse and heard a
speech by the Honorable Stephen A. Douglas, to
daily routine in a mud-chinked log
cabin in Pana, Illinois, where hogs ran free in the
streets. Accounts of soapmaking,
lectures on abolitionsim and spiritualism, Republi-
can meetings, "sugar eats,"
and other mundane affairs of the last century also appear
in the journal.
Yet the small pleasures of Mary's
life were eclipsed by hardship and sorrow. Victim
of a weak constitution and chronic
illness which led to her death in Amboy at the age
of twenty-five, only two years after
the last journal entry, Mary found little respite amid
the drudgery of frontier life.
Repeatedly she endured the shock of losing close friends
and relatives. Rendered in pencilled
jottings whose careless penmanship itself suggests
inner turmoil, her gripping accounts
of death bed scenes lend credence to the startling
mortality statistics of the
nineteenth century. Still, like the village church bell tolling
the departure of a loved one, a sense
of resignation broods over Mary's highly charged
descriptions of spiritual crises-a
resignation born of her deep faith in a God who "or-
dereth all things aright and doeth
all things well." Interesting, well written, and in the
last analysis emotionally stirring,
the journal of Mary Sears offers present day readers
insight into the struggles of a
sensitive, introspective, and compassionate young woman
striving to come to grips with the
hardship of life in the nineteenth century.
The history of the journal itself is
incomplete, though it apparently devolved to
Lucius Sears, Mary's younger brother,
following her death on May 8, 1863. Lucius
eventually settled in Lansing,
Michigan, and it was in his home more than a century af-
ter Mary's last entry that the
journal ultimately surfaced.
In its entirety the journal runs to a
length of one hundred nineteen pages; for this
Mr. Jones is Assistant Professor of
English at Texas Tech University, and Mr. Pickering is Professor of
English at Michigan State University. The journal is in
the possession of Professor Jones.
215