Ohio History Journal

DIARY OF THE REV. JAMES-HANMER FRANCIS,

1837-1838

 

 

EDITED BY WINIFRED LOVERING HOLMAN1

 

James-Hanmer Francis, son of James and Pamela (Welles)

Francis, born in Wethersfield, Connecticut, 28 May 1796, died

in Middletown, Conn., II July 1863, aged 67, and was buried in

Wethersfield.   He was a graduate of Yale University, class of

1826; supplied in various parishes in Connecticut; was the min-

ister at Dudley, Massachusetts, from June, 1831, to June, 1837;

then went on the western trip described in his Diary. He was

minister in Perrysburg, Ohio, from January, 1838, until April,

1839; again supplied in Connecticut and later was in New York

City. He never married.

The Diary, which follows, was kept by the Rev. James-

Hanmer Francis, on his western trip to New York, Ohio, Michi-

gan, Indiana, Illinois and Iowa, of which 1801 miles were made

by horse back. A small booklet of twenty-one double pages,

bound in heavy paper, it bears no title and is not paginated. In

editing copy most of the contractions have been expanded:

July 11th 1837

Commenced my journey to West in the Stage from Hartford to

Albany. At 4 AM we were on our way. Pleasant morning tho. sufficiently

cool to demand an outer garment. Some part of our course with 17

persons on board of the stage, our progress slow. Rode outside until the

rain just at night & in the evening drove me inside. In passing from

Canaan Ct. to Sheffield Mass. the appearance of the country considerably

changed. We passed between two rigdes [ridges] of hills on quite a level

& sandy road. Disappointed somewhat in finding the soil so free from

stones & so level. Egremont is the next town to Great Barrington the

next town has much the appearance of business & thrift, fine buildings. Did

not notice particularly West Stockbridge. Other towns in proceeding thus

1 Contributed by Winifred Lovering Holman, S.B., of Lexington, Massachusetts,

with the permission of the owners, Mrs. Langbourne Meade Williams, Jr., and

Chauncey Devereux Stillman, Esq., of New York City.

(41)

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42      OHIO ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND HISTORICAL QUARTERLY

 

to Albany were Concealed mostly from our view by the darkness of the

night. Arrived at Albany 1/2 past 11 & put up at Western hotel.

12 Rose little past four & proceeded to take a look at the city of

Albany. Quite as large in extent as I anticipated, & from the glance I

cast should judge some of its public buildings to be costly & magnificent.

Hoping to have opportunity to take a more particular observation of this

City, I left as early as I could on the car drawn by horses to Skenectady.

Started at 1/2 p 6 & reached Sk little after 8. Past 10 took boat on the

Canal to Utica.

In Egremont yesterday we passed the quarry where the marble for

Girard College is obtained. Large blocks of ten or 12 tons have been

carried away. Saw a team of 11 horses in a single line used for transport-

ing the marble. Proceed on the canal about 2 1/2 per hour. Rather tedious.

Got time to rest.

13 Have been crawling on our way during the night at usual rate.

between 10 & 11 passed Little Falls; quite a business place, not so neat

as it might be. Has 4 places of worship --   the Pres --                     the Ep --   the

Meth. -- the Bapt. -- 3 Flour Mills --   2 Malt houses --                  2 Distileries, as

much distilled as usual -- 2 Saw Mills -- 1 Paper Mill Several Founderies

& blacksmith

Yesterday in leaving Albany was disappointed in the country--for

miles very poor soil, uncultivated, overgrown with shrubs. Skenectady not

rich soil. Here met Lewis who was settled in Reading keeps the only

female Seminary here. Visited his establishment, from the room of which

took a view of the city & vicinity, the Mohawk & Colleges. Went to the

site of the College, pleasantly situated. Quite an amphtheater like view

is presented from the top of Lewis house formed by the adjacent hills &

mountains.

Met on board the line boat Rev. Mr. Ayre & sister going to Syracuse.

Observed religious service at table & at evening. Capt. Vedder consenting

met also Vedder Universalist preacher, or has studied to be quite voluble

disputant.

Arrived at Utica 7 O clk P.M. found that the stage had gone at 4

toward Trenton Concluded to proceed on foot & went 4 miles that evening.

14 Rose early & continued my pedestrian journey to Trenton where

I arrived about 1/2 p. 6. Found friends which visited PM at Elisha Robbins

where I met Justus Wells son of Christopher & Ira son of Elisha Wells.

Royal Robbins son of Elisha.

15 Saturday. This morning took an excursion to Trenton Falls.

Rain detracted somewhat from the pleasantness of my visit, yet took the

usual round. Quite a grand exhibition of natural scenes. 3 different falls,

which together must be a descent of some hundred feet.

16 Attended worship A.M. at the Baptist heard Elder--rather an

indifferent sermon. P.M. Preached for Mr. Finney Presbyterian at the

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DIARY OF THE REV. FRANCIS                      43

 

other house brother of the celebrated Chas Finney. In the settlemt of

Holland patent are no less than 4 denominations Bap. Pr. Ep. & Unitarian.

3 meeting houses. The latter have none yet sometimes meet. Methodists

all in the neighborhood. Presbyterian C has about 300 members. About

an equal no. of denominations are found in Trenton Village. Proceeded

to E Robbins Sab Eve, & staid there during the night.

17 Rose early & Mr Robbins carried me to Utica in sufficient season

to take the boat for the West 1/2 p 7 AM.

Embarked on board a packet, which moved about 5 miles pr hour.

Not very pleasant company. Card playing & its usual accompanimts. Met

here Mr Frazier City missionary in N.Y. also Rev. A.D. Pollock of

Richmond Va. & Maj. I Bulow & family. The latter going to Avon

Springs. Passed some pleasant thriving villages, but much of the way the

country low & uninteresting. Some marshes.

18 The way similar to yesterday. On arriving at Fulloms basin

Pollock & Lady & myself to a carriage & proceeded across 7 1/2 m. to

Rochester the passage by the canal being 16 m. Fine ride, some 2 m

sandy & not fertile the rest clayey & productive.   Excellent fields of

wheat & grass. At Roch. at 6. Found a passage in a line boat then viewed

the falls on the Genesee in Rochester where Sam Patch took his last jump

worthy of a visit. Started about 9 PM  for Albion, 35 m.

19 July Wednesday Reached Albion at 8. Called on Mr. Doughty

& S Wells & Wm Hart pleasant visit. Sluman has had rather a hard 8

years, gave 12 Dol for his farm could sell for 50. Doughty could sell his

farm for 100. E Wells in Oneida Cty could sell for 50 pr acre Capt

Vedder said last year 3000 boats on Erie Canal & its branches averaging

4 hands to a boat making 12,000 boat men. 2000 have 2 drivers each,

1000 one each making 5000 boys in the employmnt, sad employmnt enough.--

About 7 P.M. started from Albion for Lockport on line boat, full comple-

ment of passengers, crying children &c &c.

20 About dawn this morning it was announced that we were at

Lockport. Stopt at the lower town & left my baggage then proceeded up

the locks & took a stroll about the village It is a place of much business.

Water is taken from the canal, which is fed from lake Erie, sufficient for

every purpose of working the various machinery of flour & saw mills,

manufactory of wool & one saw mill cost $40,000. has two sets of saws

of 10 plates each for planks. There are at least two others for smaller

stuff. The Canal here rises about 61 ft by 5 locks 12 ft each in Close

connexion. These are all built of stone, with massy [masonry?]² gates, a

stupendous work. The canal then for some 2 or 3 m is dug chiefly thro

a rock  Lopt [Lockport] contains 7000 inhab. has 2 Presb--1 Episcopal--

1 Bap.--1 Meth--Chs. one Episcopal building--Univsts hold meeting in

court house. One cotton factory capable of running 4000 spindles but

now works but 2000.

2 Either may have been intended by the diarist.

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44      OHIO ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND HISTORICAL QUARTERLY

 

Arrived at Niagara just before 12 at noon. Proceeded immediately

to view the falls. There is a somewhat interesting view of them on the

east way at a certain point & also of the rapids below 2 or 3 m. After

taking a view from several positions on the Am. side where at one place

we can approach to the very verge of the precipice over which the stream

passes & falls 150 ft we (i.e. Rev E A Frasier & myself) proceeded across

the river. A single hand rowed us across. then wended our way up the

bank to rather more than half its height & went up stream toward the

fall. The view from this side is grand. The proportion of the stream

that falls over the Canada side of Goat Island, is much larger than that

on the other side. One place it must be of considerable depth as it exhibits

its green color This is the first time I set foot on his³ Majesty's dominions.

P.M. went over the bridge on to bath & then to Goat Iland. Some very

fine views of the falls here especially from the tower erected in the midst

of the rapids near the falls. Goat Island contains 75 acres, has a path for

carriages entirely around it, & is cleared of under brush, a delightful walk

From the tower, the rapids for 1 or 2 miles along up from the falls may

be seen, over which the torrent of waters comes rushing with impetuosity.

In looking at the falls from every position which can be taken they seem

not to be so many [feet] in elevation as they are reputed to be, I.E. 160

ft on the Am. & 170 ft on the Canada side. Yet it is owing probably to

the difficulty of calculating the height with the eye. On Goat island at

the side which overlooks the river & of equal & indeed somewhat greater

height than the falls, there are steps for descending called Biddle's steps,

erected by Nicholas Biddle of Philadelphia. In calculating the height by

the steps I made it about 150 ft. From the surface of the island to a

flight of inclined stairs it was 12 ft. Then there were 30 of those inclined

steps of one foot each. Then 90 steps of the perpendicular stair case of

9 inches each making about 68 ft: & then it was all of 35 ft to the surface

of the river; making 153 feet. This probably is not far from the truth.

In proceeding from the foot of the stair case down stream to the lower

side of Goat Island, one may enter under the sheet of water which pours

over the precipice on that side. At no position is one more over powered

by the sensations that are awakened, as he looks at the over hanging

rocks, at the sheet of water which rushes over him & at the abyss into

which it tumbles all agitated to foam  & violence. On the Can[.] side

there is near to the fall, a perpendicular descent by steps to the foot of the

fall, & it is from this point that one may proceed under the shelving rock

& the falling volume of water some distance to what is called the termina-

tion rock. But this cannot be done without being drenched with the spray.

Those who do it have to change their clothes entirely. Preparations for

this are all furnished by the attendant for $1.00 The most entire view of

3 In writing this the writer was in error for William IV of England died

June 20, 1837, and was succeeded by Victoria.

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DIARY OF THE REV. FRANCIS                     45

 

the whole scene is at about half the distance from the ferrying place to

the fall on the Can. side At this point there is a Camera Observa which,

one who looked into it observed, afford this advantage, that all the several

parts are bro't within the circle of a single view, one look of the eye.

In passing over the river below the falls it appeared strange that one man

could so easily row the boat. Tho the water seems all in agitation, yet

the stream is less impetuous than one would suppose

21 July. This morning rose early & with Mr Frasier again visited

the falls for an half hour. Thus at different parts of the day, as well as

at different positions, had the gratification of viewing this wonder of nature.

At 6 A.M. we started in the car for Buffalo Co & arrived just before

8--22 m. In one hour I was wafted out of the harbor on my way to

Dunkirk, where I arrived at one O clk a very pleasant sail in the steam

boat United States. T. Stillman⁴ met me at the moment of landing &

attended me to his home where I was hospitably received. Called with him

on our several Wethersfield friends, lodged at Josiah Smiths.

22 Saturday. Spent the day in visiting &c. Rode to Fredonia 2 1/2

or 3 m. & to W Smiths garden. Learned some few particulars about

speculation mania. One respecting land which Capt Palmer tho't of buying.

It was bo't by Smith & divided up into lots. This land lies 1/2 mile from

the center of the village. Yet one lot with scarcely a house within 1/4 m.

all over spread with stubs, not a foot of it cultivated, size 30 by 120 feet,

was sold for $1000. Stillman gave $1000 for his house & land. Sold 1/2

for 3500. Then exchanged the other 1/2 with the house, for an acre one

mile east & $     to boot

23d Sabbath Preached today twice in Dunkirk. New neat meeting

house, rather small, audience few in no. Baptists meet in Academy in which

Msts sometimes preach. Six PM preached in Fredonia where Wm Bradley

is settled. He is soon to leave requested me to engage as supply. F is

the place where Tomlinson traded & was broken up J Smith has 170 acres

of land, was offered last year 100$ per acre. Enquired of Copp about

Tomlinson, Knows not where he is now.

24th Came this morning from Fredonia to Dunkirk. dined at W

[Smith?], disappointed about a boat obliged to stay til to-morrow. Popula-

tion of Dunkirk 1100.

25th The clouds & wind of yesterday have passed away. The lake

much smoother this morning. About 2 PM embarked in the Danl Webster

for Cleveland. Head wind, slow progress. seasick.

26th Reached Cleveland 1 PM. found no stage to Elyria till to-

morrow morning    Therefore strolled around this city, has about 8000

inhab. considerable building, quite pleasant.  Some business, yet Canal

boats laid up.

4 Perhaps Rev. Timothy Stillman [D.D.?], son of Capt. George Stillman, born

802, pastor of the Presbyterian Church at Dunkirk.

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46      OHIO ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND HISTORICAL QUARTERLY

 

27th July  Pleasant this morning, waiting to start for Elyria. 1/2 p 5

or 6 The stage was ready & on an inexpressbly bad road proceeded at the

rate of perhaps 3 m pr hour latter part of the road better 24 m to Elyria,

arrived there at 1/2 p 11, Took a turn about the streets, quite a flourishing

place, the residence of Mr Ely from W Springfield He has a fine seat

here, called judge, must be wealthy, owned much of the land originally,

place called after his name. Thence proceeded in a waggon to Oberlin,

very bad road.  Now I find myself seated in brother Cowles study in

Oberlin. This P.M. attended a Lecture by Pres. Mahan from text If any

man think that he knoweth anything, he knowth &c. Extempore. He

described the spirit here indicated of obtaining knowledge, that of its rela-

tion to one's self, & the spirit with which it ought to be acquired as a

pupil of the Holy Ghost & for the glory of God. In the evening attended

an interesting exercise of Ladies Society, which was the reading of composi-

tions, subjects previously assigned, some of them very good.

28th Very pleasant this morning. At 11 Lecture by Prof Finney on

pastoral duty. Subject the duty of minister to his family, particularly in

respect to the influence of his wife over him. In some cases she is the

Devil's agent to destroy all his usefulness. Great care should be taken

in selection of a wife. Another topic was order in respect to every thing,

punctuality also. Some good remarks. Extempore. Dined at Pres Mahan's.

Saw there a Mr Parker brother of Joel Parker, who informed me con-

siderably concerning Western rout.

29th Took a horse for Milan. Arrived there about 5 P.M. Brother

Judson had gone to the East. From M went to Norwalk found also that

Brother Newton had been gone some time to Con. Tarried with Rev

David Higgins, an elderly minister from Lyme Ct. Settled for several

years in Bath N.Y. About 3 years since came to Norwalk, a very healthy

active man. His son a judge. His wife a Gilbert from N Haven Ct.

July 30 Sabbath  Preached for Mr Higgins who is supplying the

place of brother Newton. Did not enjoy freedom & energy & life. Third

meeting very small. In evening enjoyed a pleast Conversation with Mr H.

He is acquainted with many things of yore in Con. Knew most of the

old ministers, & related anecdotes of several, especially of Joseph Huntington

of Coventry, who came out a posthumous Unst. Said that he preached an

ordination Sermon in Colchester Ct. at the sttlemt of Mr Cone in the latter

part of life, when he was so intoxicated that he could hardly proceed in his

part of the service.  Apologized afterward by saying that the fumes rose to his

head & confused him.--He had two sons Saml & Joseph, who were both

classmates with Mr Higgins at Dartmouth & Saml afterward at N Haven.

Joseph was a comrad of Burrows,⁵ was separated for misconduct from

Dart. When Saml graduated at Yale, the father told the faculty that Jos

 

5 Was this the notorious Stephen Burroughs? See the Memoirs of the Notorious

Stephen Burroughs of New Hampshire (reprint from Albany edition of 1811. New

York, 1924).

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DIARY OF THE REV. FRANCIS                      47

 

was in a few days to receive his degree at Dart. & as one son was taking

it at Yale, he desired that the other should also have a degree here. Under

this representation the Yale faculty consented to confer on Jos. this honor.

But at Dart. commencemt 1 or 2 weeks after the degree was withheld from

him. The deception was so glaring that the Yale authority struck off his

name.--Mr Higgins was preaching in Ellington, Ct as a Candidate, &

Huntington had an inferior fellow under his care whom he had exerted

himself to have licensed, by the name of John Taylor. Huntington repre-

sented the latter as a very worthy & excellent man. But when he found

that Mr Higgins was acquainted with Taylor he shut his mouth at once,

showing that there was an effort at deception & imposition.--Mr. Higgins

named two men who avered that they had, no doubt of the truth of them

& repeated to account most fully & confidently. But when they come to

change their sentiments, as they did, said they never believed them, not-

withstanding what they had declared.

31st After breakfast returned to Milan & bought Rev. Orson Parker's

horse & with it returned to Oberlin. On my way called on my classmate

Barber, stationed at Florence, whom I passed by, not knowing that he was

there in going to Milan. Reached Oberlin just at sun set. Prepared my

things for an early start next morning.

August 1st Was on my way this morning before 5 for Lyme where

the Huron Presbytery are to meet for special purposes growing out of the

doings of the late Assembly. Called on brother Barber & took breakfast,

& with him proceeded on to Milan where we took dinner, then to Lyme

where we arrived about 3. Presbytery already in Session. Attended it.

Barber their Commissioner reported. Committee appointed to present reso-

lutions. Such were presented disapproving doings of general assembly.

delegates to the convention to be held on 27 inst at Auburn appointed,

Alvan Nash Sandusky City & Mr. Seymour layman. Mr. N preached in the

evening. Put up for the night with a Mr Strong whose wife is Sister of

Jac Lee's wife of Dudley. Very incidentally learnt their connection in

conversation with a daughter of Mr Strong at Mr Stebbens. Mrs. Stg.

had a 1000 inqueries to make concerning her relatives & acquaintance in D.

Did not know her father was dead, tho she had heard from Homer N Y

where she has a sister.

2 Tarried with Mr Strong to day very hospitable.  Learnt some

things about the country, he lives on a prairie the first I have ever seen.

It is some 10 miles in extent & presents a beautiful appearance. Soil is

tolerably good, Clay predominates, when dry is hard, parched & cracks.

The pasture I see is full of fissures. Land good for corn, tolerable for

grain & grass. The illness under which I have labored for a day or two

in consequence of my now mode of traveling on horseback is abating.

Preached a lecture for brother Betts this evening with some degree of

satisfaction to myself.

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48      OHIO ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND HISTORICAL QUARTERLY

 

3 Aug. Prepared some things necessary & at about 3 PM Started

for Lower Sandusky 18 m from Lyme. The latter is 10 from Milan, which

is 10 from Florence, which is about 14 from Oberlin. Horse travels well.

Reached Mrs Hulburd before night fall, presented my letter of introduction

Mr Betts, was cordially recieved, attended religious meeting, made an

appointment for tomorrow eve. to preach. Lodged at Mr David Camp.

4 Friday Spent A.M. in visiting several persons who have been

affected by the protracted meeting & revival.  Herbert A   Reed from

Medina N.Y. formerly of Thompson Ct has held here a protracted meeting

with good effects. This has been a most desolate wicked place, a ch but

no meeting house for Presbyterians. Now some 80 have indulged hope, a

great impression produced, almost all the young women converted, many

united to the Ch. few young men. Mr McKutchen has preached here once

in 2 weeks. They exceedingly need a minister, ability to support & build

a house can be secured. Preached this evening & made an appointmt for

the Sabbath

5 AM    tarrying at Mrs Halburd a very pious humble widow with

5 Children, her hus. was a merchant, lives on the very spot where Croghan

with 70 men repulsed 2000 of the British in the late war.⁶ The remains

of their fortifications on the West & south side are still visible, the trench

& the pickets. It was on an elevation some 60 or 70 ft above the river.

The British Came across the Lake Erie & up Sandusky river. It is    m

from the mouth &   m from Sand. City at the end of the bay.7 Crog. had

but one large field piece but he made made [sic] this operate to the terrible

destruction of the enemy. The latter were obliged to retreat. One expe-

dient was to place a large timber on pins driven into the picketts, & then

when the enemy on the outside laid hold of this to scale as they were in

the trench, those on the inside with poles shoved the timber off, which

falling crushed the men beneath. The places where the killed were buried

is plainly seen. The graves of 12 officers I counted on the bank of a small

ravine. Soldiers are buried together on a little elevation a few rods distant.

The trench is said literally to have been over shoe[s] in blood--This is an

important place in many respects will grow. The great Western road

passes here, the rail road to the west is to be made here & the canal from

Columbus is to terminate here--Orson Parker, Flint, Gennesse Cty, Michi-

gan is he of whom I bo't my horse. Deac. Allison is his father in law.--

An institution by Geo W. Gales from Oneida at Galesboro Knox Cty.

Lower Sandusky is at the lower rapids, in distinction from the rapids

farther south, up the river where is upper Sandusky. Sloops & a steam

boat come to this place. Stevenson's fort is the name of that which Crog-

han defended, on the hill where Mrs. Hulburd house is. 46 members have

been admitted to Ch L Sandusky.

6 The "late war," refers to the War of 1812-1814.

7 The author evidently had intended to fill in the number of miles.

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DIARY OF THE REV. FRANCIS                      49

 

6 Sabbath Preached twice at the S. house, small audience. L.S. needs

ministerial labor unspeakably, has been a very wicked place. Some quite

humble devoted christians. From L.S. to mouth of river 16, to Sand City

18 by land 30 by water. Steam boat comes from S. City has 1100.

7 Started from L Sand this morning after 8. had a parting interview

with Mr. Pierce, Camp & Wife & Miss Lucy Barney. Proceeded on thro

black swamp to Perrysburg. 31 m. a dull monotonous road, little to relieve

except the small taverns once in every 2 or 3 in. miserable enough. No

traveling this season compared with the last. probably not 1/20. Every

thing is stagnant, no money stering. Reached Swan Creek just at dark

4 m from Maumee city which is on the opposite side of the river from

Perrysburg. Each of these places thriving, from 1000 to 1100. inhabitants.

Staid at a miserable hut & lay on the floor.

8 Proceeded on my way in the rain to Sylvania or Whiteford, then

to Blissfield, then to Palmyra, then to Adrian, in the whole about 30

Rained a little all day, reached Mr Wolcotts before 4 Oc PM. One man

said he had been to Pittsburg 60 Steamboats laid up side by side. 3 boats

did all the business on the Ohio river. Land in blk swamp sold for 20 &

then 25 pr acre. One would sell for 16 d. now.

Distances             Aug 9 Spent at brother Wolcott, In the eve at-

Cleveland to

from Elyria               24  tended a prayer meeting. Small no. convenced.

to Oberlin                9

to Florence               14       10 Rode with brother W   to Palmyra & viewed his

to Milan                    10  land, called on Mr. Warner's family, & on Mr Walker

to Lyme                     10

to Sandusky            18       the minister. This village is settled in good part by

to Perrsburg 31           emigrants from   Palmyra N. Y.     Mr Warner from

to Adrian    34                         Cummington Mass. Good society. Fine place to settle

11 Still at Adrian & having a request to tarry over the Sabbath

shall stay. This village & vicinity has quite a population from 10 to 1500.

13 Aug. Sab. Preached thrice to day. Quite an attentive audience.

This will make a fine field for ministerial labor. Ch considerably large,

tho now a no. have gone farther West. Population rather floating.

14 AM1/2 p 10 Left brother W's on my way West. Thro the forest

first part of the road to the Detroit turnpike, road very bad, latter pt thro

oak openings better, 20 m. These openings especially the burr oak openings

are very good for wheat. They are thinly scattered over with white &

yellow & some blk oak, easily cleared. They are said to have been thus

kept thinly overspread with wood by the Indians who burnt them over

yearly for better hunting ground. Some stones along thro these openings

underlating. Road tolerable after coming onto turnpike 18 m to Jonesville,

within 5 m of which went this day.

15 Rose early journeyed on to Cold Water & then other villages as

Batavia & Bronson to Sturges prairie 12 m from W pigeon. Tarried with

a Mr. Hopkins a free will Baptist an admira of Mr. Bradford a Chrystian

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50      OHIO ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND HISTORICAL QUARTERLY

 

preacher. H. hospitable, fanatical, talkative, rather ignorant, adopts ultra

views about non-existance, percation [?], &c. yet in many respects a good

sort of man. Seemed to be willing to do his duty, yet tho once observant

of family religion now does not maintain it.

16 Rain prevented an early start this morning, took breakfast with

Mr H. had somewhat protracted conversation with him. Proceeded to W

pigeon & called on Deac Loomis who is very pleasantly situated in this most

delightful settlement. Called on Mr Warriner P minister, went to the bell-

fry of their meeting house enjoyed a most delightful view of the prairie.

This extensive plain covered with a rich harvest is enchanting. Danl Web-

ster in passing thro' ascended to steeple.

17 Last night a long & terrible thunder storm, as much so as ever

witnessed Designing to day to reach Niles. Left Deac Loomis, about 8,

rather misty, but afterward pleasant. Called on Rev. Mr Stanley at Mott-

ville 6 m from Pigeon. He married Deac L second daughter lives away

from the road in a miserable log cabin. Both have the chills. Proceeded

pleasantly on my journey to-day. Reached Niles about 1/2 p 5 distant from

Pigeon 36 m. Called on Rev A. B. Brown to tarry for the night. Quite a

young man. Son of Brown, Pres. of Jefferson College Penn. Niles is

much of a business place on the St Joseph's river 25 by land & 50 by water

from its mouth, runs here north into Lake Michigan. 1000 or more in-

habitants. White Pigeon so named from an Indian chief of that name

Distances from Adrian to the Detroit road                                                      20

thence to Jonesville                                                                                               18

"           to Cold Water                                                                                       17

"           to White Pigeon                                                                                  40

"      to Niles                                                                                                   36

"           to Laporte                                                                                              30

"           to Valparaiso County Seat of Porter cy⁸                                        29

18 Aug. From Niles journey on to Laporte 3 a m which I reached

about 5 PM. Tarried at a private house, Marsh about 1/2 way from Laporte

to Morgan prarie, log hut.

19 F morning rode on to Mr Jac Blair, 1 m E of Morgan prarie &

6 Et of Valparizo concluding to tarry here over the Sabbath. Large family

of 10 children, very worthy & hospitable. One son recently died at Wabash

College. The father was born in Kentucky has a large farm 6 lots of 80

ac, yet lives in a little log house, away from schools, not having had a

school for 2 or 3 years, no presbyterian preaching often. Many are the

privations of new settlers. No neighbor within a mile, surrounded consid-

erably by marsh.

20 Sab. Preached once at Mr Blair's. Rain prevented a collection.

Yesterday agreed to an appointmt one 1/2 m from Cty seat near Mr McCon-

8 Valparaiso, Porter County, Indiana.

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DIARY OF THE REV. FRANCIS                      51

 

nell at 6 & went over with him. preached at school house few present. Mr

K Talbot lives near by, married Mr McConnells' daughter. Serious diffi-

culties with Talbot, has been silenced by Lawrence association of N. Y.

Presbytery at Laporte disapproved of him Treated his Ist wife bad. She

was deranged. By Mr Blair's a-c a bad man.

21 This morning at Mr. McConnell's 60 m from Juliet.⁹ He has a

large family, appar. a conscienscious pious man, has 160 acres under claim.

A Mr Star in this place will have 3000 bu grain this year. One man in

White pigeon having only 80, will have 1000$ worth of grain, land very

productive.--

Proceeded on my journey after a time of conversation with Talbot,

Reached grand prairie before noon. Wind quite strong from the West &

cool. At eve cold. Went 38 m staid at a miserable Shanty kept by a

Dutchman Mackey, wretched place, horrid accomodations.

22 Got on early. About 11 took breakfast with a most intelligent &

accomplished lady from Pittsburg. Arrived at Juliet before noon, a growing

place has 2 advantages water power & limestone. Went on the river road

to Ottawa 45 m. Staid about 1/2 way. Atmosphere cold & damp, took cold

by traveling in the eve & sleeping in an open house near the river. River

is called Juliet down to Dresden where it receives a tributary & then called

Illinois. Tavern keeper said they ploughed the prairie shallow. River road

not traveled in 1835.

23 At Ottawa at noon. Did not stop. Went on to Peru 15 m. head

of navigation on Ill. Steam boats go there daily. In high water they go

up to Ottawa. Went on from P 8 m across the river toward Hennepin.

24 Early on my way & reached Hennepin before breakfast, at Mrs

Ware where is Rev Mr Cook, who is to settle here in a few weeks. Staid

til after dinner. At 2 started for Princeton 10 m to Rev Mr Farnum. Staid

with him over night.

25 This morn on my way to Wethersfield in Henry Cty. 32 m. a

very new country.

Distances--from Valparaizo to Juliet                                                60

from Juliet            to Ottawa                                        45

thence         to Peru                                            15

"      to Hennepin                                    15

"      to Princeton                                   10

"      to Wethersfield Henry Cty.             32

I have traveled on horse back 467 miles from Oberlin And reckoning

the distance from Oberlin to Milan which was thrice traveled over the whole,

to this place, Weth. Ill. is 517.

26 Aug. Staying for a day or two with Mr Little in Wd. Wrote a

letter &c today.

9 Joliet, Illinois.

• 11
 

52      OHIO ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND HISTORICAL QUARTERLY

 

27 Sabbath. Preached twice at the ch a pleasant Sab. Staid to-night

with Col Sylvester Blish who has recently moved here with his family.

28 Spent to day in looking about the purchase.

29 Going from Wd today to visit friends at French Grove, the Wells,

25 or 28 m from this.-- Arrived at F. G. at dusk -- found judge Robbins

at Mr Wells, a social agreeable man.

30 Spent to day at Wells.

31 Do [Ditto] looking about his farm fine location, good timber.

Sept 1st 1837. Started early this morning for Peoria & Fremont.

Much of the last part of the way to Peoria land broken & sparsely wooded.

Called on Porter the P. minister of Peoria a few moments, learnt from him

about Bascom at Pleasant Grove. Proceeded on 8 m & found Bascom hold-

ing a protracted meeting -- Cyrus L. Watson assisting.

2 Sept. Staid at Pleasant Grove today, attempted to preach this PM.

3rd Sabbath. Something of a congregation to-day. Watson preached.

In the evening, having proceeded to Fremont 4 m preached at the S. house.

4      Tarried at the house of Messrs Thomas merchants, young men.

5      Went toward Springfield traveled about 50 m one prairie of 15 m.

6      Staid last night at a house 10 m   from  S. Rained this morning,

quite muddy, got on before noon. Called on Rev Mr Bergen, took dinner,

found the Ch here holding a protracted meeting Methodists by themselves,

two pres. & Baptist in connection. Whitney minister of 2d Pres. ch. Merri-

man of Baptist Called S Francis who publishes the Sangamon Journal &

Cha^s B & Josiah his brothers from Pittsfield. Allen & Newton brothers of

Simeon are printing his paper.¹⁰

It rained in the morning, concluded to stay in Sp. today, very muddy.

They are building a splendid State house here of lime stone -- Attended

meeting to day & evening. Staid with Chas Francis.

7 Started this morning for Jacksonville 35 m. road muddy, reached

before night called on Prof. Steurtevant, welcome reception.   In evening

took tea with Mr Beecher & wife & sister Catharine, pleasant interview.

8 Rode this morning with Mr. S. West of town, fine country, more

cultivated than any I have seen in Ill. Took tea at Pres. Beechers this

evening. Several citizens of Jack present.

 

10 Hon. Allen Francis, born 12 Apr. 1815, Wethersfield; married 25 Dec. 1838,

Cecilia B. Duncan, etc. He was son of Dea. Simeon6 (Charles⁵, John⁴, John3, John²,

Robert) and his brothers were: Charles, Calvin, Josiah, Edwin and Newton. He

went to Illinois, where with his brother, Major Francis, he established the Illinois

State Journal, which was conducted for 27 years. In 1861, he was appointed by Lincoln,

as U. S. Consul at Victoria, N. A., and took up his permanent residence there;

resigned after 10 years service and engaged in the fur industry; was again appointed

Consul at Victoria, from which position he was transferred by Pres. Arthur, in 1881,

to a similar duty at St. Thomas, where he died 4 Aug. 1887, from injuries received in

a train wreck. It was through this man that Sec. Seward gained information about

Alaska which determined him to enter into negotiations with Russia for its purchase.

Also it was at Allen's home in Springfield, Illinois, that Lincoln met his future wife.

Miss Todd. There is quite an account of Allen's brother, Simeon, in CHARLES E.

FRANCIS, Descendants of Wethersfield, Conn. (New Haven, 1906), 21-22. See also

Adams-Stiles, Ancient Wethersfield, Connecticut (New York, 1904), 344.

• 12
 

DIARY OF THE REV. FRANCIS                       53

 

Distances from Wd to French Grove                                               27

from French G. to Peoria                                              25

from P to Pleasant G 8 thence to Fremont 4                 12

from Fremont to Springfield                                          61

Thence to Jacksonville                                                  35

 

160

Sept. 9. Still at Prof. Sturtevants.

9 Sept. Concluded to tarry over the Sabbath.

10 Sabbath. Preached twice at the presbyterian house. Small con-

gregation especially P. M.

11 Left at 10 this morning for Fairfield about 70 m. [Mendon]

12 Reached Cousin Asaph Francis11 about sun set Staid with him over

night. He has a good location of land.

13 Called on brother Kirby this morning took dinner with him. Also

on Levi Stillman12 Took tea at Stillman at whose house was sewing [sale?]

In the eve. returning to his house found difficulty in retracing my way.

14 Went to Quincy, called on Holmes Saw his brother who kept

school in Dudley. They expect disturbance at their abolition meeting to-

morrow. Mr Benton from Guilford Ct. is going to assist.

15 Staid last night and the one before at L Stillmans. A. M. went

to cousin A. F. [Asaph Francis?]

16 Last night at Elam's A's boarding place. Went with A to town

& took my horse with the intention to exchange him After several trials

concluded I must change with Col. or Deac. Chittendon.

17 Sabbath. At Mr Stillmans. Preached in the log meeting house in

Fairfield or Mendon twice, Kirby having gone to attend Commencemt at

Jacksonville. Took supper at Mr Baldwin's father of A. B. of Springfield.

Mr B. has been here 3 years. Returned to Stillman.

18 Started early this morning & effected my exchange of horses & got

on my way 1/2 p 10--proceeded thro Woodville to Rawell Mill on Crooked

Creek.

19 Got on about 50 m to Canton to Rev Mr Stewarts. Staid for the

night Frost last night as also for 2 nights previous. In Green Cy frost

every month this summer, one last day of Aug. Asaph says one man can

raise 1000 bush. corn. A boy said he & his brother 16 & 17 years cultivated

60 acres which yielded 60 to the acre.

20 Rode with Mr Stewart to Farmington 10 from Canton. Took din-

ner at Mr. Birges. Proceeded on to F. M. Wells at French Grove. He was

not at home gone with Mr Robbins to Peoria. Staid with his family for

the night.

11 Asaph Francis, son of Robert, first cousin of the writer's, born in Wethers-

field, in 1808, and married Sarah-Ann Clark; eventually removed to Mendon, Illinois.

12 Levi Stillman, son of Major Joseph, born in Wethersfield, in 1791, lived many

years in Quincy, Illinois.

• 13
 

54      OHIO ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND HISTORICAL QUARTERLY

 

21 Started at 1/2 p 10 for Wd Henry Cy arrived there after some rain

at sunset [Wethersfield, Henry County, Illinois.]

22 Horse at the Englishman's, self at Mr Howard's, from whom I

learnt of Montrose13 on the Mississippi & concluded to go there. Started a

little before noon & got on to Knoxville. This town contains about 600 pop.

Steam mills. Another with a large wheel for carding, goes by horse power,

horse walking on the inside. Fine grove of wood, on S. & W. abundance

of coal, about 1/2 way between Ill. & Miserier.

23 Started early for Burlington14 but concluded to go by Oquawka in-

stead of going directly from Monmouth to Burlington found I did not reach

B till late even if I could cross Miss Made inquiry at Oq., found a family

by the name of Jamison Presbyterian. Concluded to stay with them over the

Sabbath

24 Sab. Pleasantly entertained at Mr J., had 2 meetings at an un-

finished house of the associate reformed, decent congregation, for the notice.

Many assot Ref. in this neighborhood, a few presbyterians, some Method-

ists, Ch. at Fall Creek & at Monmouth.

25 Sept. Monday rain last night took breakfast at the old Mr Jami-

son, Samuel. The son where I staid is James. Hindered this morning by

the rain, intended to get to Burlington today if possible

 

J. T. Holmes & Sam1 of Quincy

Silas Williams married Caty Widger [?] at Manlius N Y

Distances from Jacksonville to Fairfield                                                                               75

Thence to Quincy & back                                                                                                          30

From Fairfield to Canton                                                                                                            85

Thence to French Grove 25 & to Wd 25                                                                               72

Thence to Knoxville 36 & to Monmouth 20 to Oqua 16                                                 120

To Burlington 14 to Skunk river 10 & back to Wd 96                                                     186

 

To Princeton ³0--to Chicago 106 Mich City 50                                                                 618

26 Started this morning from   Jas Jamison for Burlington.   Was

detained at the ferry. Got over the Missippi just before night & went to

Rev J L Bells 2 or 3 miles from river. Staid there over night & was glad

to obtain a shelter from the rain

27 Designed to go down to fort Madison & then to Montrose, was

prevented by the size of Skunk river, turned back after having received

sufficient information from a young man who had resided 6 months at Mon-

trose. Got over the Missip at Burlington & staid at the miserable Inn &

with the most miserable family of the ferry man.

28 Rose before day & in endeavoring to proceed lost my way & went

13 In Iowa.

14 In Iowa.

• 14
 

DIARY OF THE REV. FRANCIS                     55

 

back to the ferry & waited till day light, then went to Jamison, to break-

fast. Reached within 3 miles of Knoxville, to-day.

29 Cloudy this morning. Stopped a little in Knoxville, got to Wd

in the rain at dark. Staid with Mr. Howard.

30 After much cogitation which way to go concluded to get on to

Princeton & go that way to Chicago, reached brother Farnum's just at

night.

Oct 1st Sat. Preached at P this day

Oct 2 Tho. intending to go on toward Chicago, concluded for a

certain purpose to stay in Princeton to-day. Cald at Miss Lucy Topliff's

school, attended Monthly concert PM. Staid at night with Mr. Dolittle

3 Started on the western road to Chicago cold forbidding weather

reached Paupau Grove. Here come on to the road from Dixon ferry to

Chicago

4 This morning quite misty, yet proceeded on, crossed Fox river

at 5 PM from this 10 m to Napierville, went with the design of stopping

short of that, supposed dwellings as I was told in every mile but last

part of the way none. It grew dark as I traveled on & after passing several

sloughs & despairing of finding a house & discovering stacks determined

to take up beding there for the night. Then after feeding my horse fixed

myself a bed in the stack, rather uncomfortable, especially as it rained

Heavy thunder storm during the night. But as it was warm did not take

cold. Great reason to be thankful to a kind Providence.

5 Started at day light this morning & reached Chicago middle PM

Called on P Taylor & took tea. Called on Rev. Mr. Blatchford in the eve.

Staid at the tavern, tremendous bill

6 Just before noon was ready to proceed on toward Michigan city.15

Am now immediately on the shore of Lake Michigan, my ear almost

stunned with its perpetual roar. 26 m  from  Chicago. Have traveled

beach road

7 Early this morn. was on my way toward Michigan city on the

beach 18 m from last night stopping place to city West. Reached there

about 11. The first house I met up the hill called for some water, went in,

a countenance was presented which I thought I knew, inquired of the little

boy his name, reply Herman Ball, then knew I had then accidentally fell

upon the family of Mr Ball who married Jane Horton. Spent the day &

the Sabbath with them. Mr B is here owns several lots & also has claims

at Cedar Lake 30 m distant

8 Sabb Preached in ch West at Mr Bigelow's who was recently

from Leceister Mass. A brother of his lives in Mch. city who has lived

in Montreal, & who owns property in City Weth.

9 My horse becoming lame, was in doubt whether I could proceed

on my journey, tarried till PM with Mr Ball, then went to Mich city 10 m

15 Michigan City, Indiana.

• 15
 

56      OHIO ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND HISTORICAL QUARTERLY

 

was at dusk at Mr. Bigelow's with whom I staid for the night. Met there

his father & mother, former 81 years old, been here one year, his daughter

is John Nelson's wife Leicester, Mass.

10 Proceeded to day to within 6 m of Niles

11 42 miles from White Pigeon, Started early & reached the latter

about 5, called at Deac Loomis. 12 Rained last night, very heavy traveling,

yet must proceed

Went 12 m to Sturges prairie & staid for the remainder of the day

with Mr Hopkins, an adherent of Bradford.

13 Oct. Started from Hopkins about 9 AM very muddy, passed thro

Jonesville just at eve & went on 4 m.

14 Got on thro Adrian to day, reached brother Woolcott's about

5 PM

15 Sabb. preached at Adrian to day. Staying at brother W.

16 Wrote to J. P. Cowles about my trunk, not having found any

letter from him notifying me that it was sent to Cleveland. Some idea of

going to Detroit to attend Synod of Michigan.

 

Distances from  Mich city to Niles                                             37

to W  pig. 36 to Adrian 100                                                         136

to Dxter & back 80. to Toledo 30                                                110

 

283

17 Waiting at Adrian

18 Started for Detroit but concluded for several reasons to get no

farther than Dexter.  Stayed with Lawrence Meth minister 5 m      from

Lima Center

19 Reached Lima before noon & took dinner with Mr Crossman

P M16 of Lima PM went with him to Dexter & put up with Mr Millerd

merchant, formerly of Aubern native of Pittsfield. 20 Staid Mr M.

21 Do [ditto]

22 Preached 3 times to-day, Morn in hall of tavern, PM & eve in

episcopal house.

23 Started for Adrian this AM staid at Clinton with Rev Mr Nichols.

24 5 m to Tecumseh took dinner with Rev Blood, a very pleasant man

tried to sell horse Reached Mr Woolcott's middle PM. did not find him

supposed he went to Detroit, have concluded to go East with horse

25 Before Sun rise this morn Wolcott came home from Detroit.

Arranged my affairs with him & set out early as possible on horse back

to Toledo. Staid at Whiteford at night. Was here in the even for a few

moments attacked with a painful sensation, head swimming &c but soon

relieved & rest well for the night

26 Early this morn on my way 10 m to Toledo. Snowed quite

 

16 Postmaster.

• 16
 

DIARY OF THE REV. FRANCIS                      57

 

briskly. Boat had just gone when I reached T. Waited till middle P. M.

2 boats came in agreed to go to Cleveland for 5.00. Went on to night to

Huron.

27 Reached Cld. about 2. Went immediately to Mr Aiken's found

my trunk, arranged things in regard to trunk & portmantau, left the

former at Winslow's forwarding Store for Mr. Jas Penniman to take to

N.Y. & started for Austinburg Got out 15 m from Cld to night

28 A little dash of rain early this morn which gave me very unhappy

forebodings soon stopt. Proceeded on very properous Cy. arrived at Joab

Austin's about sun set.

29 Sabb. Very pleasant congregation preached twice, prayer meet-

ing this Eve.

30 Staying at J Austin for to day

After consultation with Lucius Foote concluded that he should write

to Perrysburg & I wait in Austinburg & vicinity for an answer, so I

stayed & preached in Austinburg another Sab. Continued here till Satur-

day of the second week & went to Kingsville 15 m. There recd letters

both from T Stillman & J. W. Smith PM Preached in Kingsville. Con-

cluded to go to Perrysburg tho. the people were urgent I should stay in

Kingsville. On Monday returned to Austins expecting to see H Cowles

but did not see him. Tuesday 14th Nov started for Perrysburg. Reached

there on Saturday 18th Nov. On following Sab. preached P.M. Con-

cluded to remain here during the winter.

From Cleveland to Austinburg 55 to Kingsville 15                                              70

Back to Kingsville to within 16 m of Perrysburg                                                   163

 

233

The whole distance I have traveled on horse back is 1801 miles.

 

 

Commenced boarding at John H McBrides Monday Nov 20th 1837 at

noon at $3.00 pr week

Jany. 25th 1838 left J. H. McBride's before noon

Commenced board at Deac. Allen Hills Jany 25th 1838 at noon Left

Deac Hills & went to Mr Stetsons Feb 27 noon Left Stetson's the 8th of

May

Returned to Perrysburg & to Mr Stetsons to board on Thursday

P.M. June 21st 1838

Left Stetson's for Keyes, Dec 18 1838

Returned to Stetson's Jany 16-39

1838 May 8th During the winter past have been employed at Perrys-

burg attempting with much imperfection to preach the gospel. This day

• 17
 

58      OHIO ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND HISTORICAL QUARTERLY

 

started for Philadelphia in boat Cincinnati. Arrived at Cleveland day light

after a smooth passage on

Wednesday. Had to wait till 2 Oclk to take the stage for Beaver,

10m Traveled all this night. Passed thro. Hudson & took supper at 9 or

10. Could not see the place. Midnight upset the stage. Slept but little

Thursday continued on & reached Poland just at sunset. This night

slept none. Hurried to get into Beaver before the boat went. This we

accomplished by great effort on

Friday just past 8 AM. Reached Pittsburg, 30 m, at 1/2 p the PM.

Had to wait till 9 for Canal boat.

Saturday. Enjoyed a good nights rest last night, as we proceeded

along the Allegany--then we come on the Kiskaminitas--then on the Cone-

maugh to Johnstown. Arrived here on Saturday night or before next

morning.

Sabbath 13 Spent to day in Johnstown a little settlemt at the head

of Canal Navigation. Attended Methodist & heard Bishop Soule of Ohio,

with whom I formed some acquaintance on the boat. A man of good nat1

talent. PM. Heard Grindy of Maysville of Kentucky. Animated preacher.

Lyle of Hunderson, Ky. to preach this evening. Wright also of Ohio,

Methodist to preach this evening in the Lutheran Ch. This & the Pres-

byterian the only Chh.  Methodists have occasional preaching.  From

Pittsburg here 103 m.

14th Started from Johnstown about sunrise on rail road. There are

5 inclined planes on each side of the mountain. On the West in the

course of 26 m 1200 ft descent, on the East in 10 m 1400 ft. The first

level on the West rises 101 in 4 m. The first plane 150 ft--2d level 189 &c.

About 1/2 p I took the canal boat on the Juniata, & proceeded by many &

frequent locks down the Allegany. Quite an agreeable company among

them the Ex-Governor of Tennessee & son. Natural Scenery very different

from that of the west, land more cultivated & more of it on the river capa-

ble of cultivation. The hills often rise abruptly & high above the bed of

the river. Very mild & pleasant weather. Vegitation however is not yet

put forth, trees all bare.

Took with me to the West the following in money & draft

One draft of Phoenix bank Hartford on Mechanic's bank New

York for                                                                                                                                                     200

One draft of Hartford bank on Merchants' bank N.Y.                                                                                 525.64

One hundred dollars in bills of Detroit Michigan                                                                                     100.

In bills of U. S. bank                                                                                                                                           95.

In Specie 4138                                                                                                41.38

In Hartford bills                                                                                              9.00

J. P. Cowles' note                                                                                            126.00

Recd at Lower Sandusky                                                                                                                                   2.00

Do at Adrian                                                                                                   7.40

Recd at Austinburg                                                                                          12.00

• 18
 

DIARY OF THE REV. FRANCIS                      59

 

The sum lent to Wm Wolcott was $725.64 tho the face of the note is

more oweing to reckoning 12 pr ct

 

Expences

Fare to Albany                                                    3.00

Do to Schenectady                                                                              .75

Expenses                                                                                            .72

Fare from Skenetady to Utica                                                             1.60

From  Utica to Trenton                                                                      .13

Fare from Utica to Rochester                                                             4.66

Do from Rochester to Albion                                                             .50

Expences                                                                                            .12

Fare from Alb to Lockpt 56--then to Niagara 75                                1.31

Expences                                                                                            .10

At Niagara 38--25 from N. to B. 75 fare                                            1.38

Fare from Buf. to Dunkirk 1.00 Exp. 9-10                                         1.09

Fare from D. to Cld 200 Expense 84 Fare fr to C 200                        4.84

Paid for horse                                                                                     70.00

Short coat                                                                                          1.75

Horse to Milan 100 Keeping 13                                                          1.13

Shearing                                                                                             50

Expences from Lower Sandusky to Adrian                                          1.26

Expences from Adrian to W pigeon                                                   .85

Saddle Skin                                                         50

Expences from Pig. to Morgan Prar.                                  63

Expences from Mr McCullen Porterville

Porter cty In to Hennepin                                                    2.61

Exp from Hennepin to Princeton & to Wld                                       19

Do   from Fremont to Springfield                                                       86

Do from Jacksonville to Fairfield                                                       43

Repairing Saddle 38 Shoeing 75 Ex 25                                                1.38

At Wld. 50 Knoxville 60-6-50 Wiscon 99                                          2.65

Return to Wld 40 Princeton 20 To Chicago 278                                3.47

From City next to White Pig 164--to Adn 56 port 19                       2.39

M.C. 25 Ex to Dexter 63 from An to Aug 6 7.05                               7.93

Hat 400 From    Austg to Perrysbg 370--25                                       7.95

 

126.76

Add for sums not put down                                         1.54

 

128.30

For horse Take out 30.00                                         98.30

Expences at Perrysburg

Paper 6--4 1/2 yd ct flrd 140 mkg 75 Lamp 31                      2.52

• 19
 

60       OHIO ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND HISTORICAL QUARTERLY

 

Oil can 38 To S E Morse for L Headg pr 200 JF 300                          5.38

Oil 38       Mending shoe 25 Wood 125                                              1.88

Socks 63   Hair Ctg 12--Silk 13     Mending 50                                   1.38

fig 13 pass"

Itinerary of Rev. James-Hanmer Francis

183717

Hartford, Conn.                                                      Morgan, Ind.

Canaan, Conn.                                                        Valparaiso, Ind.

Sheffield, Mass.                                                      Joliet, Ill.

Egremont, Mass.                                                    Ottawa, Ill.

Great Barrington, Mass.                                          Hennepin, Ill.

West Stockbridge, Mass.                                         Princeton, Ill.

Albany, N. Y.                                                         Wethersfield, Ill. [Kewanee]

Schenectady, N. Y.                                                 French Grove, Ill.

Utica, N. Y.                                                            Peoria, Ill.

Trenton, N. Y.                                                       Pleasant Grove, Ill.

Trenton Falls, N. Y.                                               Fremont, Ill.

Holland Patent, N. Y.                                            Springfield, Ill.

Rochester, N. Y.                                                     Jacksonville, Ill.

Albion, N. Y.                                                          Fairfield, Ill. [now Mendon]

Lockport, N. Y.                                                     Quincy, Ill.

Niagara, N. Y.                                                        Fairfield, Ill.

Niagara Falls, N. Y.                                                Woodville, Ill.

Buffalo, N. Y.                                                        Sylvania, Ohio

Dunkirk, N. Y.                                                       Whiteford, Mich.

Fredonia, N. Y.                                                      Blissfield, Mich.

Cleveland, Ohio                                                     Palmyra, Mich.

Elyria, Ohio                                                           Adrian, Mich.

Oberlin, Ohio                                                       Palmyra, Mich.

Milan, Ohio                                                           Adrian, Mich.

Norwalk, Ohio                                                       Jonesville, Mich.

Milan, Ohio                                                           Batavia, Mich.

Florence, Ohio                                                       Bronson, Mich.

Oberlin, Ohio                                                         Sturges, Mich.

Milan, Ohio                                                           Coldwater, Mich.

Lyme, Ohio                                                           White Pigeon, Mich.

Lower Sandusky, Ohio                                           Mottville, Mich.

Sandusky, Ohio                                                      Niles, Mich.

Perrysburg, Ohio                                                    Laporte, Ind.

17 1801 miles of this trip was made by horseback. In 1838 he went to Philadel-

phia; Perrysburg, Ohio; Cleveland, Ohio; Hudson, Ohio; Poland, Ohio; Beaver, Pa.;

Pittsburgh, Pa.; Johnstown, Pa.; thence to Philadelphia.

Ohio was admitted to the Union in 1803; Michigan, 26 Jan. 1837; Illinois, 3 Dec.

1818; Indiana, 11 Dec. 1816; Iowa, 28 Dec. 1846. Iowa was part of Wisconsin Ter-

ritory when the trip was made in 1837.

• 20
 

DIARY OF THE REV. FRANCIS                     61

 

Canton, Ill.                                                            Jonesville, Mich.

Farmington, Ill.                                                     Adrian, Mich.

French Grove, Ill.                                                  Dexter, Mich.

Wethersfield, Ill.                                                    Lima Center, Mich.

Knoxville, Ill.                                                        Adrian, Mich.

Oquawka, Ill.                                                          Clinton, Mich.

Burlington, Iowa                                                    Tecumseh, Mich.

Knoxville, Ill.                                                        Adrian, Mich.

Princeton, Ill.                                                        Whiteford, Mich.

Pawpaw Grove, Ill.                                                 Toledo, Ohio.

Napierville, Ill.                                                       Huron, Ohio

Chicago, Ill.                                                           Cleveland, Ohio

Michigan City, Ind.                                                Austinburg, Ohio

Niles, Mich.                                                            Kingsville, Ohio

White Pigeon, Mich.                                              Austinburg, Ohio

Sturges, Mich.                                                         Perrysburg, Ohio

Winter of 1837 in Perrysburg.

• 21