Ohio History Journal

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.

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."

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.

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.