John Jay Johns Journal, 1885
From Gauss and his Children
Journal, 1885
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John Jay Johns Journal, 1884<---->John Jay Johns Journal, 1886
January
Jan. 1, 1885. Here begins another year. I say to all my friends and dear ones a Happy New Year in the Lord. May God's richest blessings rest on you through Jesus Christ our Redeemer. Amen. Called on Mrs. Ross with my wife in afternoon.
Jan. 2, 1885. Dr. Johnson told me yesterday that he thought Mr. Martin's lungs were seriously diseased and fears for the worst. He seems to have a complication of diseases and looks badly. I fear he will not be able to preach much more. I called at Mrs. Frayser's in afternoon, room full of young ladies. Mrs. Glenday and my wife called on Mrs. Tanner and Naomi Barron, Mrs. Tanner in very poor health.
Jan. 3, 1885. John Pearce returned home this morning. Joe Parks and Shirley went down to Marias Croche Lake to skate. I called in afternoon on Col. Cunningham, 85 years old and very vigorous and then with William Parks called on Mr. Charles Johnson who is 93 years old. It is our duty to do all we can to comfort and cheer the aged. Mr. Johnson showed us the cane that was made and used by old Daniel Boon. It is black haw wood. It was given to Mr. Johnson by Boone's wife. Mr. Johnson bought and lived many years in the house that Boone and his son built (a large stone house) in Femme Osage in St. Charles County.
Jan. 4, 1885. Sabbath. Brother William Parks preached for us this morning, Mr. Martin is very poorly. children's Missionary meeting this afternoon. This little society is now more than 30 years old, they raise from $2.00 to $4.00 at each meeting for foreign missions.
Jan. 5, 1885. The old people are dropping off. Old man Cut is buried today, 80 years old. Mrs. Kramme died Saturday night. Eleanor Martin came out in afternoon and brought us some Florida oranges just received from Mr. Alexander.
Jan. 6, 1885. Sent for Sunday School papers, quarterlies, hymnals and catechisms. I have a bad cold. I called at Mr. Martin today, he looks very pale and thin.
Jan. 7, 1885. Have a very severe cold in head with some neuralgia, I have suffered a great deal today with my head. A letter from Annie dated 26 December, Fred was sick.
Jan. 8, 1885. I suffered a great deal with my head last night, very unwell today, confined to the house. This is the anniversary of a great event in the history of this country, the great victory under General Jackson at New Orleans. How soon sickness and pain brings us down and shows us our weaknesses and need of help from the Lord. I am a great deal better this afternoon. My wife has a spell of rheumatism in the hand.
Jan. 9, 1885. Mrs. John K. McDearmon and Mrs. Orme called. Mr. Crenshaw died last night and Mrs. Tanner is very ill. We had letter from Arthur today and one from Mattie. I am reading Kiekte's[1] "Hours with the Bible". It is a rich and valuable book, his sketch of Abraham's life and character are a delight.
Jan. 10, 1885. Called to see Mr. Martin this morning, he has had fever every afternoon for several days. The doctor fears it is his lungs. He is in a very precarious condition. We had a letter from Fred today, he is a great deal better. Called at William Parks and had a pleasant hour with him. Saw his daughter, Mrs. Boal, who lives in Kansas. She says it is impossible to keep houses warm there in cold weather, the winds blow so strong. Minnie sent a letter by Doug Martin.
Jan. 12, 1885. Wheat and corn have advanced in price lately, it was discovered that the amount on hand in Europe was much less than at this time last year.
Jan. 13, 1885. Mrs. Durfee not so well this morning. A letter from Dollie yesterday - all well. Mrs. Alderson, Sis Gauss called in afternoon. William Parks and wife and Joe spent the evening and took tea with us. They are immanently good Christian people and the Lord wonderfully provides for them and their large family.
Jan. 15, 1885. I still have remains of cold in head, some catarrh. Eleanor Martin came out in afternoon in snow, her father is no better. Papers report sever cold all over Texas, a great destruction among cattle and stock, a disastrous year in Texas with drought in summer and cold in winter.
Jan. 17, 1885. About 7 o'cl p.m. George and Minnie came very unexpectedly, they had written but we didn't get the letter. How often surprises come to us, either pleasure or otherwise, - they are doing fine.
Jan. 20, 1885. The Kankakee, Illinois Insane Asylum burned up Monday morning -- 17 lives lost. All such institutions ought to be fire proof. Had a letter from Mattie yesterday. The ice men are getting ice from Marias Crochi lake - nine inches thick. My wife and Mrs. Glenday went out in afternoon, called on Mr. Martin, he is about the same, some fever every day - no appetite.
Jan. 22, 1885. My Franklin stove pipe burned out today. Charles Walker and Pendleton of Wentzville made assignments yesterday, a most unexpected thing as to Walker as he was thought to be prosperous. The uncertainty of riches. Snow upon snow. The citizens are taking steps to supply the poor milk needed in this long extreme winter. Letter from Minnie today. I went out with Shirley to College exhibition at Opera House, great crowd, the boys did very well, walking bad, snow soft and slippery. My wife and Mrs. Glenday went out to the Society in afternoon.
Jan. 25, 1885. Sabbath. Last night's papers report an attempt to blow up the British Parliament by dynamite. Good many people injured, terrible crime.
Jan. 26, 1885. Received a letter from Mary Johns[2] at Austin, Texas, very cold there. Mr. Martin not so well, had fever yesterday. I called at Mrs. Frayser's - Mrs. Rufner from West Virginia and Mrs. (Dr.) Bates of St. Louis and Mrs. Samuel Watson are there. Good deal of suffering among the poor especially the negroes -- they are so improvident. The people are supplying their wants. Mercury below zero.
Jan. 29, 1885. Met Mr. Alderson's brother today, an old gentleman from Maryland. This day is observed by many churches as a day of prayer for schools and colleges. In the afternoon, my wife, Mrs. Ross, Mrs. Parks and I and others went out to Lindenwood to attend a religions meeting conducted by Reverent Mr. Martin of the 1st Church, St. Louis. It was an interesting meeting, Christian colleges are a blessing, many of our best men and women have been converted in our colleges.
Jan. 31, 1885. No letter from our Texas folks for 3 weeks. Old Mrs. Kisinger died today, happy release from much suffering. she was an humble, devoted Christian woman, Mr. Kisinger is distracted greatly, they have been married 54 years.
February
Feb. 1, 1885. Sabbath. Dr. Irwin preached for us this morning. "Good words and good deeds live forever."
Feb. 3, 1885. Letters from Arthur and Lizzie, all well - they had a long rainy spell and cold. Mrs. Kisinger was buried today, she was a very good woman, always at church when able and always gave some out of her poverty. A very sad thing occurred in the Prairie yesterday. Mrs. Mary Vincent was shot accidently by her son. Her knee was completely shattered and had to be amputated, she is a good woman, I have known her from a child. Mr. Martin much worse today. Weather still freezing.
Feb. 4, 1885. Reverend Mr. Wilkie came up from St. Louis yesterday to see Mr. Martin. Mr. Martin was so unwell and nervous he saw him only a few minutes. Eleanor Martin was out in afternoon to see us. She talked about her father's condition and wept freely. Monthly concert tonight but walking bad.
Feb. 5, 1885. Dr. Irwin told me today that he had a talk with Mr. Martin today and that he was fully aware of his condition and entirely reconciled to it. My wife and Mrs. Glenday called there this afternoon, he had a fainting spell about noon that alarmed them very much.
Feb. 6, 1885. Kartum was reported in the evening papers in the hands of the rebels and Gordon either killed or a prisoner.
Feb. 7, 1885. I wrote to Miss Kate Myers today. My wife and Mrs. Glenday went out to Mr. Alexander's. I called on Mrs. Sidie.
Feb. 8, 1885. Sabbath. President Meyers preached for us today. George and Minnie came to the McDearmon's last night and to dinner with us. They returned to the McDearmon's and went back to St. Louis this morning. Children's Missionary meeting this p.m. The last evening papers report General Gordon killed by the rebels at Kartum. His death will be mourned by all civilized people, he has had a great career. All the world is looking to the English army in Egypt and anxious for the fate of Gordon.
Feb. 11, 1885. Mr. Alderson called after tea to tell about a Dr. Lawton who cures cancer and rheumatism. Went out with Mr. Alderson to French town to see Dr. Lawton about Julia Martin's case. He professes to cure severe cases of cancer and rheumatism. Saw Mr. Martin this afternoon, is growing worse.
Feb. 14, 1885. I had a long talk with Mr. Gauss about his going away from this place. He thinks all things considered it is best for him to move with his family to some place else and settle on a farm with his boys or family, he is too old and blind to continue in business longer. His boys want to farm and raise stock. His removal will be a great loss to us and the church here.
Feb. 16, 1885. Reverend Mr. Barrett preached for us last night, we had better congregation than expected and a good sermon on Christian life and hope, the foundation of joy and peace. He left this morning. Mr. Alderson and Reverend Mr. Luther called on Mrs. Durfee this morning.
Feb. 17, 1885. Henry, a negro man, that I raised, brother to Cely and Syd, came to see us today. He lives in Illinois near Chicago, is a blacksmith, is well off.
Feb. 19, 1885. Mr. Martin is growing worse and weaker, has been in bed two days. Great deal of suffering among the negroes because of the extreme cold winter.
Feb. 20, 1885. Drs. Farris, Brank and Hollifield came up today to Mrs. Martin's. They spent half hour with him before noon, came with me to dinner and in afternoon called to see him again. Their visits were gratifying to him. He has not been out of bed for 3 days, is very weak. Grace triumphs in his case.
Feb. 22, 1885. This is the most memorable day in our national annuals - Washington's birthday. The completion of the Washington monument celebrated yesterday. Our kitchen chimney burned out this morning. It is always alarming. Miss Laura Watkins was very sick last night and was to be married this afternoon. A great many railroad accidents reported -- caused by the severe cold and many fires occur through the country. Reports from Egypt very discouraging to England.
Feb. 24, 1885. I called on old Mrs. Custer at Mrs. Watkins. Miss Laura Watkins is still sick. Mrs. Lindsay has a sale of all her personal property today.
Feb. 26, 1885. My wife stayed all day at Mr. Martin's. They sent for Afra and Ed. They came in morning.
Feb. 27, 1885. Mr. Martin died last night at 8:45 p.m. My wife and I were there and witnessed the final scene. It lasted only about 30 minutes, no struggle, but past off easily. He leaves five girls at home. Eleanor and Daisy have nursed him with great tenderness. They bear the loss with great fortitude. They are left utterly penniless but the covenant keeping God will provide for them. They have a great many warm friends here. Douglas is getting a good salary and can help them. Dr. Martin is 58 years old, has been in the ministry 36 years and has been pastor of our church over 14 years. He was a good preacher, helf [sic]forth the great doctrines of the Gospel with great clearness and force and commanded the respect of all classes in the community. A life well spent and his reward is on high.
Feb. 28, 1885. Doug Martin came down today. Reverend Thomas Watson came to preach Mr. Martin's funeral sermon. The ladies are draping the church today. Called to see Mr. Watson at Mr. Gauss's this afternoon, he has been in poor health for weeks.
March
Mar. 1, 1885. Sabbath. This is a solemn and memorable day in our church. The pastor who has preached the gospel so faithfully for more than 14 years is to be buried from the church at the hour he was accustomed to preach to us -- this is his last sermon to us from the grave. There was a great crowd of people at funeral today, all classes and denominations. Mr. Watson preached a very able sermon on the interview of our Saviour with Martha on the resurrection. The Christian has a new life, given him by God, a spiritual and eternal life. Dr. Irwin, Mrs. Wm Parks and Reverend Mr. T. C. Smith took part in the services. Mr. Smith and Mr. Parks took dinner with us.
Mar. 2, 1885. Had a talk with Douglas about what would be done with their family. He is determined to keep them together here. They will remain in the parsonage until the church needs it. What a happy thing for them that he can do it. We had meeting of the session in church tonight to take action on Mr. Martin's death. Jack and Doug Martin are making catalogue of their father's books today. I collected money to pay his funeral expenses.
Mar. 4, 1885. This is memorable day in our history. President Cleveland is to be inaugurated today -- the first democratic president in 24 years. He has not been a politician and was elected because of his honesty and firmness in his official capacity as governor of New York.
Mar. 5, 1885. Dr. Irwin came to the church last night after prayer meeting to help put a price on Mr. Martin's books. Read President Cleveland's inaugural address this morning. It is admirable in tone and matter, has the clear, strong democratic Jeffersonian ring -- honesty, economy, and faithfulness -- the government belongs to the people and must be administered for the people. Had a new front gate hung today by Mr. Bates.
Mar. 8, 1885. Sabbath. Dr. Reasor of St. Louis preached in our church in exchange with Dr. Irwin. Had a congregational meeting - a paper adopted by the session on Dr. Martin's life and death was read by Reverend Will Parks, the church to continue with their regular church contributions. In afternoon went to William Parks where he baptized his two grandchildren - William and Lizzie Boal's children.
Mar. 9, 1885. Received a letter from Lizzie today, they have fine health. Eleanor Martin gave me two books of her father's -- The Two Parsons and Life of John Randolph of Roanoak. Wheat in bad condition.
Mar. 11, 1885. Tom Pearce came down today to get pay for the sheep that dogs killed 1st day of March. He looks very well. Mary is expected home from Carrollton Saturday.
Mar. 13, 1885. Frank Kirkpatrick, and old citizen, died suddenly this morning, James Towers, another citizen died yesterday, 5 miles west of town.
Mar. 16, 1885. Mrs. Glenday sick this morning. The eclipse of the sun apparent when clouds part occasionally about noon. Received a letter from Fred, everything prosperous and one from Minnie, no house yet.
Mar. 17, 1885. Mrs. Glenday in bed and I am still suffering with cold. I have remained in the house all day. Not well and so cold out. My wife is suffering a good deal with face-ache from cold. Miss Julia and Maggie Frayser called in afternoon and also Mrs. Allen and Annie.
Mar. 18, 1885. Mrs. Ross, Eleanor Martin and Sis Gauss called in afternoon. My wife quite sick, cold and pain.
Mar. 20, 1885. I testified on the affair of the dyke at the eastern pier of the bridge on the current of the river washing the St. Charles bottom lands. Mrs. Pourie called.
Mar. 22, 1885. Sabbath. The Reverend Dr. Monfort, the editor of the Presbyter and Herald, preached in our church morning and evening, took Dr. Irwin;s place. He has been on a visit to California and New Orleans and went up last week to Fulton to see Dr. Robinson, his old classmate. He is 74 and Dr. Robinson is 77. I used to see Dr. Montfort when I was at college at Oxford 45 years ago. He preaced two very good sermons. George and Minnie took diner [sic] with us, they have rented a house.
Mar. 23, 1885. Called to see Mr. Alexander who is sick, in afternoon called to see Ellen Johnson, colored, about her pension papers and then stopped to see Reverend Mr. Turner, Methodist minister, colored. He is a large, fine looking copper colored man.
Mar. 24, 1885. Saw August Cruse yesterday, he thinks most of the wheat is killed. The farmers are very much perplexed what to do - whether to get spring wheat to sow. Some think the winter wheat may yet come out and they are afraid of spring wheat - hard to get the right seed and then it is very uncertain in this latitude, the prospect is very gloom, the weather is so dry and cold. In the year 1864 we had something similar and a very fine crop of wheat was raised. Rhaker also thinks wheat gone.
Mar. 25, 1885. This day, forty-one years ago I came to this place. Forty years brings a great many vicissitudes to most families. The Lord brought me to good land and has greatly prospered me in the main. My blessings have been very great, temporal and spiritual. Death has taken six dear ones to the Heavenly Home and ten of us yet live though many of them are scattered far away. When I came to Missouri I had very poor health and for some years after but for a long time I have been stronger and health generally good. I would raise a memorial to say hitherto hath the Lord helped me. And I must say that me dear wife has been a great help and comfort to me. I have a severe attack of neuralgia in head today. I wrote to my cousin, Tom Johns, today.
Mar. 27, 1885. Wrote Rutherford Douglas today. Had several orders for Mr. Martin's books today. Douglas Martin and I sent off several packages of books this afternoon, Eleanor Martin was out to see us.
April
Apr. 3, 1885. Some war in Central America led by Barrios, a rebellion in British America. The French War in China causing great excitement in France -- change of ministry. A threatened war between Russia and England in Afghanistan and the English war in Egypt. Shirley had easter egg party today, the Parks, Martin children, Ed Irwin's and Rob Bruere.
Apr. 5, 1885. Sabbath. This is called Easter Sunday. Though there is no Bible authority for its observance, yet is strictly observed by all Catholics and Episcopalians. It certainly celebrates a glorious event, the resurrection of our Savior on which rests our whole christian system.
Apr. 8, 1885. Postal from Mary Pearce saying she expects to come down with Mary Morgan tomorrow. Eleanor came out. Called at Mrs. Frayser's this afternoon.
Apr. 10, 1885. A postal from John Pearce saying his mother was sick and could not come. Settled with August Cruse for last year rent today. In afternoon rode with Robt Pourie out to Garvin's and then to Mrs. Durfee's farm and by John Lindsay's the wheat on Mrs. Durfee's farm - lower field is about half a stand and in spots. Talk of war between England and Russia. Grain up.
Apr. 12, 1885. Attended the funeral of old Mrs. Allen, Jimmy Stewart's mother-in-law.
Apr. 16, 1885. Went up to Troy Tuesday to Presbytery and returned today. The meeting of Presbytery was not full, Farris and Watson absent. We had a very pleasant meeting and dispatched business very rapidly. Troy has improved since the railroad was built. The church there has prospered under the ministry of Mr. Fansteal. I stayed at the LaClede Hotel with Mr. Campbell of Dardenne. Mr. Buswell is the Proprietor and keeps a good house, his wife is a pleasant lady. Reverend T. C. Barnet and his elder, Mr. Edmonds, stopped and took dinner with me.
Apr. 18, 1885. Received letters from Arthur, Mattie and Minnie. Saw a fire extinguisher tried downtown today. A big fire was started in full blaze and was put out instantly by it.
Apr. 21, 1885. Mrs. Custer and Mattie Watkins called in afternoon. Laura Watkins was married yesterday to Captain Ball. Old John commenced making fence behind the stable.
Apr. 23, 1885. Mells Kersman ran the line between Mr. Gauss and me. I wrote to Drs. Quarles and Charles about a situation for Eleanor Martin as Art Teacher. Mary Pearce, Kate and Mary Morgan came down this morning. Mary has been sick for the last two months. I called in Dr. Johnson this evening to see her, she is very weak, no appetite.
Apr. 24, 1885. Received a letter from my old friend Niles Saunders of Kentucky today. He speaks in the highest terms of Reverend Mr. Tate as a preacher and pastor. Old John finished the fence around the stable. Called on Mrs. Waters and Charlesworth.
Apr. 26, 1885. Sabbath. George and Minnie came on early train, look well, they seem delighted with their housekeeping. Sank killed a big cat last night. Reverend Mr. Baldsin preached for us today.
Apr. 27, 1885. Put a new plank cover on shed over cistern. John commenced fence between Mr. Gauss and me.
Apr. 29, 1885. Old John finished the back fence between Mr. Gauss and me. The Lindell Hotel in St. Louis was injured by fire last night. The war cloud darkens between England and Russia. I still have my neuralgia and my wife is a good deal troubled with rheumatism, Eleanor M. came in afternoon.
May
May 1, 1885. Met Bro. Wm Parks today, he will preach for us Sunday Deus Vohn. He proposed that we invite ReverandMr. Beale of Potosi Presbytery to preach for us Sunday week. Mary and the children returned home this evening. She has wonderfully improved in health since she came down.
May 7, 1885. Went to St. Louis early Tuesday (5th) as grand juror in the U. S. District Court, stayed all night with George and Minnie that night. They have a good house, comfortably furnished and pleasantly situated on Compton Avenue. Wednesday morning called at Dr. Joe Moon's massage establishment on Olive Street. Stayed with my old friend Dr. Farris last night. He and his wife are alone. Dr. Dick Farris is practicing medicine in Illinois, Daisy is there visiting and Ed is in Boonville. My wife, Mrs. Glenday and Shirley went to St. Louis this morning and I met them at noon at Mrs. Deneny's (Milliner). They expect to stay tonight with George. Came home on early train, after supper went to the parsonage to see Mr. Taylor Martin who came last night. He will remain and preach for us Sunday. I have to return to St. Louis in the morning.
May 10, 1885. Sabbath. Reverend S. Taylor Martin preached for us morning and evening. He is a very fine preacher. In the morning his text was "Cast the burden on the Lord and he will sustain thee" a most comforting sermon to christian and at night "If ye believe not Moses and the Prophets, neither will ye believe the one rose from the deat. It isn't the want of evidence, but the want of inclinatioin that leads men to reject Christ". Rev. Taylor Martin, Douglas, Eleanor and Daisy came to tea.
May 15, 1885. I called at Robert Parks' in afternoon. Sold some books of Mr. Martin's to McCluer and his sister, Mrs. McCarty.
May 16, 1885. Called on Reverend Mr. Boale at Wm Parks. Called with him on Taylor Martin at the Parsonage. Martin has concluded to remain another week so as to be in St. Louis tomorrow (Sunday) week. Mr. Boale took dinner with us. Shirley went with a fishing party. Parker and Garvin, to Lake on Prairie.
May 19, 1885. Attended a religioos meeting at Mrs. Watson's at night, a consecration of the new house to God.
May 22, 1885. The Reverend Mr. Tate of Kentucky came this morning, I called on him at Mr. Alexander's, in afternoon and rode with him around town. He is a pleasant man, He preached last night, his manner is poor but sermon good. We had a letter from Lizzie and Mary today.
May 24, 1885. Sabbath. We had communion in our church today. Eight girls from 12 to 16 years old joined our church today. They all belong to the families of the church and all belong to Eleanor Martin's Sunday School class. Mr. Tate preached a very fine sermon. Attended Mrs. Franzs' funeral in afternoon.
May 25, 1885. Mr. Tate stayed with us all night. I feel drawn to him as a warm-hearted, earnest consecrated man. I made several calls with him today. He leaves tonight for his uncle's in Callaway County, Col. Isaac Tate's.
May 28, 1885. We called at the Parsonage after Tea. Eleanor has some very pretty paintings of her own for the Art Exhibition at Lindenwood. Letter from Mary saying the wheat is nearly all dead, that is generally the case -- such a failure of wheat was never known before in this country.
May 30, 1885. Went out with my wife and Mrs. Glenday to the Art Exhibition at Lindenwood, some fine pictures. Eleanor Martin has done some fine work in drawing and painting. WE went to Lindenwood again this evening to the Art Exhibition and an entertainment of the Junior Class, a burlesque of the senior class. Met George and Minnie there, quite a large crowd.
May 31, 1885. Sabbath. We had no preaching in our church today. The Baccalaureate sermon by Dr. Irwin is to be preached today in the Jefferson Street Church. George and Minnie took dinner with us and tea, too. I went over to McDearmon's in evening. Heard Reverend Joe Pritchett in the Methodist Chruch at night.
June
June 2, 1885. Attended the funeral of old Mrs. Isaac Moore in afternoon. Eleanor Martin came and took tea with us. Attended one of the Lindenwood meetings at the church tonight to hear the address of Reverend George Martin of St. Louis on the origin and development of free thought -- on the subject of religion, science and civil liberty -- Rennaisance.
June 3, 1885. Lindenwood commencement, great crowd and many from St. Louis -- 13 graduates.
June 4, 1885. Attended an exhibition of the St. Charles College students at the opera house last night. The boys did very well. Secretary Bayard was in St. Louis yesterday on his way to Columbia State University commencement and thence to Kansas. Shirley and I expect to go to Wentzville today.
June 5, 1885. Went up to Wentzville yesterday. Found Mary's family all well. She still complains a good deal. Their crops are bad but Tom has managed it miserably, oats look well. I am greatly discouraged about them. They have so little thrift and management. Saw Dr. Brooks and Mr. Bridal on train returning from Fulton in the interest of Westminster College. Elected Mr. Findley professor of Moral Philosophy.
June 9, 1885. Received a letter from Lizzie today. Mary and Bonnie were there on a visit to Percy. Mrs. Orrick called this afternoon. I attended the wedding of Bettie Akin and Reverend Mr. Tucker at Methodist Church this afternoon. I was at the marriage of her father and mother 30 years ago.
June 10, 1885. Got 4 pigs from John Lindsay today about 6 or 8 weeks old. Called at Wm. Parks in afternoon.
June 12, 1885. Eleanor Martin got a telegram from Dr. Quarles today saying she was elected principal of the Preparatory Department in the Elizabeth Aule Seminary at $450 per annum. She is anxious to continue her art studies at Lindenwood another year and I went out to see Dr. Irwin about it and he will give her emplyment half day in teaching so that whe can go on.
June 14, 1885. Sabbath. George and Minnie came to dinner and spent all afternoon. She is feeble, they are perplexed as to whether to give up their house for the summer and Minnie remain up here. No servant and her health poor. No preaching in our church today, attended Jefferson St. Church. Wrote Dr. Quarles.
June 23, 1885. Received a letter from Mattie saying she would leave Philadelphia on Thursday and be here on Saturday. I have just finished reading the life of Oliver Cromwell by DiAubigne. What a wonderful man he was, he was a great warrior, a great statesman and an earnest Christian. He was specially raised up by Providence to do a great work for civil and religious liberty in England. I am now reading a life of Phillip Henny by his son, Mathew Henny, the commentator. What a holy, useful life was his -- a bright shining light in his day -- 1650.
June 24, 1885. A postal from Elden Cowan tells of Jacob Brown's death last Sunday. George and Minnie went to housekeeping again in St. Louis today. Eleanor Martin came out this afternoon.
June 26, 1885. The two Presbyterian churches here have been considering the plan of employing one pastor and worshiping alternately in the two churches. They are both so weakened as not to be able to support a pastor alone. Some in each church are averse to it but the postion of Mr. J. E. Stonebraker in our church is so decided against it saying he will leave and go to the Methodist Church if it is carried out. This is a big responsibility to assume as it will defeat it. The prospects look dark.
June 27, 1885. This day marks another milepost in the journey of my life -- 66 years old today and here I raise a memorial and say hitherto hath the Lord helped me. I have so many reasons to praise my God for His great Goodness to me and mine. Mattie and Shirley Borden came this morning. Both look well.
June 28, 1885. Mr. Garvin told me at Sunday School he would remove to Fulton, Missouri. This greatly weakens our church. We are in great straits what to do about a pastor. We are not able to support a man and family. I pray the Lord to lead us out of this trouble. Attended the Jefferson Street church today.
June 29, 1885. Rode down to Frenchtown to Mary Schumpe to get her for George and Minnie.
June 30, 1885. I rode with Mr. Alderson to Maria Croche and by Mrs. Durfee's farm. Harvesting wheat.
July
July 2, 1885. Received a letter from my cousin, Tom Johns of Virginia. He has lost one of his eyes and the other very weak. His daughter, Alice, is very low in Lynchburg. Rhaker, my teneant, came to see me today about trouble with Mr. Shafer about a turning row between them -- bad blood between neighbors for a very little matter. Went to the Prairie this afternoon with the two Shirleys. The corn on my place looks very fine. It is the first time I ever saw the farm without any wheat, nearly two hundred acres in corn. Proposed to my tenant to lease it for the next year, from March 1886 at $7.00 per acre.
July 3, 1885. House belonging to Kesling was burned up last night about 11 o'cl. Hoffman in giving the alarm was thrown from his horse and dangerously hurt on the head. Sent a bundle to Mary by old Mrs. Gleason, George and Minnie came on accommodation train.
July 4, 1885. A big celebration by the Germans today. They are great people for parades, music and beer.
July 5, 1885. Sabbath. We have no preaching in our church -- a very unhappy state of things, our people are scattered. I attend the Jefferson Street Church.
July 7, 1885. Got a letter from Mary Pearce and postals from Taylor Martin and Reverend Mr. Howiser. Saw Mrs. Tom Pearce in afternoon, she came down from Wentzville today. Tome is talking of farming in partnership with Joel Carr.
July 8, 1885. In afternoon rode with Mr. Alderson down the river where the dike was built last winter. It was put at the wrong place too high up, it does no good in the bend below where the river has cut must. It has cut some below too.
July 10, 1885. Got a postal from Mary Pearce. Mrs. Glenday was sent for, Mrs. Tanner dying. Shirley Borden went to a part[y] at John McDearmon's/
July 11, 1885. Mrs. Tanner died about 10 o'cl last night. I rode up to her wedding at Femme Osage about 35 years abo. Dr. Tanner was my physician at that time. He was a very sprightly man but he got to dissipating and in a few years died in Memphis, Tennessee, she was a sincere, modest good woman.
July 12, 1885. Sabbath. I went to the Episcopal Church and heard Mr. Hunt, their new preacher. In afternoon, attended the funeral of Mrs. Tanner.
July 14, 1885. Called on Mrs. Watson in afternoon -- with all her failings which render her unhappy and unpleasnt to others I believe she is a Christian. There are a good many unhappy and unlovely Christians. Met Mr. John Judge Judge [sic] on the Street today, he still lives in Cincinnati. His father came to this place from South Carolina about the time I did, 41 years ago. He was then the richest man in the County. He finally became poor before his death -- bad management, bad speculations and dissentions in his family.
July 15, 1885. Saw Sam Alderson today, he lives now in Ohio. Mattie and Shirley Borden went to St. Louis to visit George and Minnie. Dr. Irwin's fine horse was stolen last night.
July 17, 1885. Dr. Irwin's horse and the thief were taken above Warrenton. Mr. Stonebraker called with Rev. Mr. Howison who is to preach for us tomorrow. Mattie rode to cemetery with Sam Alderson.
July 19, 1885. Sabbath. Reverend Thomas W. Howison preached for us today on walking with God. He is a very good preacher and a very pleasant man. He made a very favorable impression on our people. He came over and took tea with us. Sam Alderson was at Westminister College with him and called to see him after tea.
July 22, 1885. We received a letter from Dollie yesterday. Lizzie has been quite sick, and attack of her old trouble in stomach. I wrote a letter to my old friend and cousin, Thomas Johns of Appomattox, Va.
July 23, 1885. Mrs. Clark's (Eugenia Watkins) child died this morning and they asked to attend the funeral this evening at 6 o'cl. I conducted the funeral service. At such a time how comforting the words of Jesus. "Suffer the little children to come unto me". Mrs. (Dr.) Johnson and Mollie Wells called after tea. General Grant died this morning at 8 o'cl.
July 24, 1885. The papers are full of General Grant's life and death. I wrote to Lizzie today, it has been a month since we heard from Fred. The sermon of Sam Jones, the Georgia Evangelist, now at Plttsburg, Missouri, excited a good deal of attention and criticism. He says very rough things but he is a man of good deal power, is in dead earnest. He reaches some people that the regular ministry does not.
July 25, 1885. Shirley Borden went to a picnic, moonlight in the country. I had an attack of diarrhea. Mrs. (Col) Cunningham died this morning, she is about 73 years old.
July 26, 1885. Sabbath. Heard Sam Alderson preach both morning and night in the Jefferson Street Church, he has improved as a preacher. Doug Martin took tea with us. Attended the funeral of Mrs. (Col) Cunningham as pallbearer. Reverend Mr. Snow conducted the services in the Methodist Church. He made some good remarks on the immortality of the soul - death made only a change of existence, the body was the tabernacle of the soul here -- in heaven there is house not made with hands, the soul's identity and individuality not changed and of course no recognitioin in heaven.
July 27, 1885. I rode down to Wm. Shafer's with Mr. Alderson to attend the funeral of his little girl, 7 years old. Large concourse of people. Minnie remained with us for awhile, George went back to St. Louis. Mattie and Shirley Borden leave this afternoon for Philadelphia. They have been here a month. These annual visits are very pleasant, this world is changing scene, coming and going, meeting and separating until the final adieu and we pass to that land where no changes take place, an unchanging state of bliss.
July 28, 1885. Called at the College at the Teacher's Institute and then at Wm. Parks and then at the Car Shops. Received a letter from Arthur, fine prospects for crops and business. In Afternoon, went with Mr. J. E. Stonebraker down the river bottom by my 40 acre tract and by Mr. Watson's place. George and Minnie took a ride and lunched in the woods and got back at 10 o'cl.
July 30, 1885. Received a letter from Mary Johns at Austin. Heat intense, sky looks like brass. Began taking ice from Dugan. Rain is on the way though.
August
Aug. 2, 1885. Mr. Thomas Watson preached for us today. Large audience, grand sermon -- on the cross of Christ. Dr. Briscoe and boys came with us to dinner. George and Minnie go up to Kansas City today. I wrote a postal to Miss Kate Myers of Boonville to know if they had heard from Fred lately.
Aug. 4, 1885. Received a letter from Mr. Howison saying he would come to preach for us Sunday. My wife and Mrs. Glenday called on Martin girls, Mrs. Salveter and Lizzie Rood called here.
Aug. 5, 1885. Yesterday the funeral of General Grant began at Mc[G]regor, the funeral oration there by Dr. Newman, full of the most flttery, then there is a grand funeral display all over the country to end in New York on the 8th. Grant, without any great military or other talent, was successful because he had great resources and his energy was completely exhausted. His administration was full of blunders and official corruption. He aspired to a third term which no patriot would do. While he had no serious moral defects he had serious weaknesses, he accepted gifts from any and everybody and sought to be a man on very equivocal terms and in partnership with very dishonest men.
Aug. 6, 1885. Received a postal from Miss Kate Myers today, saying they heard from Fred two weeks ago and all well. Shirley went up to Wentzville this evening to stay until Saturday evening. Mr. Gauss has bought land near Columbia, Missouri. His leaving is agreat loss to our church and neighbor.
Aug. 8, 1885. Received a letter from Fred today, the first for six weeks. They were well -- mails miscarry. They had been to camp meeting in the Sabinal Valley and expected to attend a protracted meeting in the Neuces Canyon by Mr. Jacobs, Presbyterian preacher at Uvalde.
Aug. 11, 1885. Mr. Howison and I called at Mrs. Roos', Mrs. Pourie and Mrs. Frayser's. Saw Dr. Goodrich in town, told me he was broke and would give up everything -- the times are so hard, failure of crops. It would be great deal better if he had given up the land years ago. Mr. Howison called on the Misses Goebel, they wish to join the church, their conversion is wonderful as they belong to the class of infidel Germans. But through the influence of our pious girls they have been brought in.
Aug. 12, 1885. Mr. Howison called on Mr. Salveter's family and took tea with Mr. Jos H. Alexander. Also called on Mr. Gauss, Mrs. Gallaher, Mrs. Custer and the Martins. Mr. Howison has agreed to supply our church for 12 months, beginning 1st October. He returns to Fulton today.
Aug. 14, 1885. Mary Pearce came down unexpectedly today to attend some business for Mrs. Tom Pearce. She looks a great deal better. Shirley, John Pearce and rode down to prairie in afternoon. I received a letter from Minnie, wrote to Lou Morgan. Mr. Stonebraker borrowed by surrey to go to camp meeting.
Aug. 16, 1885. Sabbath. No preaching in our church today. Though it is much more pleasant to have our own church and preacher, yet I suppose it is good for us sometimes to be thrown among other Christian people in their churches. The real oneness of Christ is a blessed truth.
Aug. 18, 1885. Received a letter from Mattie at Fall River, she is now in Philadelphia. Mr. Bates is putting new roof on north side of parsonage. Wrote to Mary Johns, Austin. Received letter from Lou Morgan. Received several orders for books from Dr. Martin's library. Had broken rocks put on my walk.
Aug. 27, 1885. Received a letter from A. Campbell of Huntsville, Alabama, saying that Cousin Mary Riuce was dead and that she had willed most of her property to Bishop Lay of Maryland. She was about 84 years old. She had been infatuated for years with Bishop Lay. I went out to see Mr. E. C. Cunningham, he has been quite unwell for a week, coughs badly, bronchitis, heart disease. Mrs. Harrington and Julie Frayser called on us in afternoon. Great deal of talk in Post Dispatch about railroad discrimination against St. Louis -- constant hammaring at it will probably correct it. The threatened strike will probably be averted by concessions to the railroad magnates.
Aug. 29, 1885. Shirley went with Dr. Irwin, Ed, E. and Joe Parks and others over to Creve Coeur Lake this morning. Daisy Martin, my wife and I went over to see the Bruere house in afternoon, good house, fine yard and garden with good deal of fruit.
Aug. 31, 1885. Had some cement put on where the back buildings join the front to keep the water out when the rains come and where the back porch joins onto the kitchen and wash house by Mr. Bede. Took some fine grapes and pears over to J. K. McDearmon's to be canned and jellied by Mr. Orrick for Minnie and George. Theo and Eugene Gauss left today for Cooper County in wagons. Mr. Gauss sold his residence to a German named Stermer for $3,520, a terrible sacrifice. Received a letter from Fred. Great religious interest there among Baptists and Methodists.
September
Sept. 2, 1885. Colonel Emmons died in Leadville last night. I went to my farm and Mrs. Durfee's in afternoon with Shirley and Bob Bruere, Mrs. Rheker sick and sickness at Dierker's.
Sept. 3, 1885. Met the new Professors in the St. Charles College today. They brought a young Japanese boy to attend the school. Japan has made wonderful advances in the last 25 years in Christian civilization -- nearly everybody reads there.
Sept. 5, 1885. Called at Professor Jones' this afternoon and took his son over to the church to look at the books in Mr. Martin's library. Met Prof. Myers and Prof. Procter. Colonel Emmons buried this afternoon, no religious services. He was not a member of the Catholic Church and no Protestant minister was asked to officiate.
Sept. 10, 1885. Sam Alderson's town in Ohio-Washington C.H. was torn to pieces by a cyclone, Storms and cyclones in different parts of the country. Louise Martin feel [sic] from a horse and had her shoulder out of place.
Sept. 11, 1885. Went with Shirley to St. Louis Exposition. Took some chickens, butter, eggs, grapes and pears to George and Minnie. The Exposition is fine, everything of the finest in every department of human invention and skill. In afternoon, Minnie, Shirley and I went to Lafayette Park. Shirley was greatly delighted in rowing on the lake. At night we saw the illumination in front of the Exposition and George, Shirley and I went to see the siege of Paris. That is a wonderful thing. You have no idea that you are in hall, looking at a painting but you seem to be in an elevated place looking out on the acutal scene for miles around in every direction. We stayed at George's.
Sept. 12, 1885. This morning Shirley and I went down to 4th Street and took a Pine Street car for Shaw's Garden, very windy and dusty. We rode six miles to Tower Grove and walked and walked through that to Shaw's Garden. Every kind of flowers, plants and trees are here in beautiful order. The wet summer makes everything look fresh. We returned to the city just at 12 o'cl and just as it commenced raining. Got dinner and then went to Rarr's to meet Minnie. she and Shirley went to an amusing play and I rested at the Laclede Hotel until car time and we came home on early train. Found them all well at home and what a sweet place home is. Here is rest, quietness and companionship and love.
Sept. 14, 1885. Old Mr. Lindsay, an uncle of Clem Lindsay died last Saturday. Saw old Judge Barwise in town today, he is 84, very strong and active though he has had a cancer on the ear for a year. The Martins moved out of the parsonage today, Louise and Julia spent the day with us.
Sept. 18, 1885. Having the parsonage repaired, two rooms papered and ceilings whitened. Saw Dr. Page who formerly lived here but now in St. Louis. received a letter from Mr. Howison. He expects to be here today and commence his labors tomorrow.
Sept. 20, 1885. Sabbath. Mr. Howison preached this morning and evening. We hope the Lord has sent him to us to do a good work.
Sept. 21, 1885. We had a letter from Annie and Mattie too. They are having great religious interest in Fred's region. He is thinking of joining the Methodists as no Presbyterian Church likely to be in that region for a long time. Annie says she cannot join them, but will work with them. Received a letter from Mrs. Mary Johns, all been sick with Dengue Fever which has prevailed in Austin. Also a letter from Cousin Lou Patton on the will of Cousin Mary Rice. She thinks it ought to be broken. A letter from R. H. Miller in Virginia on same subject. I wrote to her and a lawyer.
Sept. 24, 1885. Lottie Stonebraker was married yesterday. I went over with Mrs. Wm Parks and Miss Mattie Reed to meeting of Presbytery at Mizpa church in St. Louis County. We had a delightful day, a very full meeting of Presbytery, Wm Paxson, Moderator. A Northern Presbytery in the Indian Territory sent charges against Paxson for distributing tracts and preaching the doctrine of the annihilation of the wicked. Presbytery referred the matter to common judiciary. Reverend Thomas Watson preached an able sermon in forenoon. They gave us a fine dinner in the basement of the church. We returned in evening, received a letter from Cousin Lou Patton about the will of Cousin Mary Rice.
Sept. 25, 1885. Mrs. Watson called in afternoon and Mr. and Mrs. Luther. Miss Aurelia McDearmon spent the afternoon and took tea with us.
Sept. 26, 1885. All the elders and wives were invited to Mr. Stonebraker's to take tea and meet Mrs. Howison. We had a very pleasant evening. Mrs. Howison is a very good looking and very agreeable lady. Received letters from Cousin Lou Patton and Shelby Walker and a lawyer about the will of Cousin Mary Rice. Received a long letter from R. H. Miller today about the will, wrote lawyer in Huntsville.
October
Oct. 1, 1885. Wrote to Mary Pearce, John J. Walker and R. H. Miller on the Cousin Mary Rice will. We had a meeting of the session tonight to talk over the interests of the church, the best mode of conductin[g] prayer meeting, visitations, etc. I go[t] a letter from Miller of Mississippi about the will of Cousin Mary Rice. Shirley has been sick for two days, chills and fever.
Oct. 5, 1885. Mr. and Mrs. Howison went over to the parsonage to begin housekeeping today. A man by the name of McElroy called to get him to conduct funeral services for his wife at 10 o'cl a.m. Rec'd letters from Fred and Annie and Dollie, Fred is taking a decided stand in religious matters, superintendent of Sunday School and leading prayer meeting.
Oct. 8, 1885. The St. Louis Fair and Exposition drawing great crowds, weather good. Strike of the Street car drivers very inopportune. Vice President Henricks in St. Louis. I am reading a book by Reverend Timothy Flint who came out here from Massachusetts in 1816 as a missionary, lived five years in the Point Prairie below town, traveled a great deal in this state, Arkansas and Louisiana. He is a fine writer and gives a very interesting account of this western country at that time.
Oct. 9, 1885. The strikers are giving a great deal of trouble in St. Louis. It is an outrage when men refuse to work for certain wages to raise riots and prevent other men working and stop the street cars running in a big city at a time when thousands of strangers are in the city.
Oct. 11, 1885. Sabbath. Mr. Howison preached in morning from the Command of Moses at Red Sea to go forward. The Christian must go forward in the path of duty no matter difficulties in the way. The officers of the church as leaders hav great responsibility -- forward is the watch-word for all Christians in all things. In afternoon a children's meeting. Mr. Howison preached to them on fearing the Lord, keeping the tongues from evil -- very good. Professor Campbell walked home with us, he is a Scotchman by birth, educated in Tngland at Rugby, spent some years in South Africa as missionary.
Oct. 12, 1885. Received receipt from Shelby Walker and Shagrin, Huntsville, Ala., for $25.00 retainer fee in the Mrs. Rice case (will). A terrible murder was committed near Wentzville this County a few days ago by a farmer named May on a man named Webb, he shot Webb in ambush and then brained him with his gun because Webb wanted to marry his daughter. Completed reading Timothy Flint's book, Recollections of Mississipi [sic] Valley, he endured great hardships in traveling up and down the river in flat boats, and sickness with his family. He was a highly educated man and seems to have been a man of good spirit, trying to do good -- perhaps a little visionary.
Oct. 15, 1885. I walked out Jefferson Street. John Atkinson is laying foundation for his house near Mrs. Ross'. Two houses building near Salveter's -- cottages. I went to the Creamery. Young Mr. Goebel was married today.
Oct. 16, 1885. Wrote a letter this a.m. to Mary Johns about the pardon of Light Cunningham by the Governor of Texas. Received a letter from Mary Pearce today, they are doing well. Mrs. Fielding and Madge called to see us this afternoon.
Oct. 17, 1885. A menagerie came to town today and the boys are greatly excited. Saw more drunken men in town than for a long time.
Oct 19, 1885. Received a joyful letter from Fred giving account of his religious experiences of late. He has a new baptism of the Holy Spirit and a new consecratioin of himself to God's service. He is superintending the prayer-meeting and Sunday School. He and Annie are doing a good work in that new and destitute field.
Oct. 20, 1885. Received a letter from Louisa Morgan today inclosing one from her Aunt Mary Thrall nee Woodruff. Mr. Ezra Overall is back from Kansas City, He thinks Sam Jones is a great preacher.
Oct. 22, 1885. Received a letter from Claude Johns about the pardon of Light Cunningham. Called on Mrs. Ross, Mrs. Miller and Mrs. Snyder near Mr. Salveter's and asked them to come to church. Called with Dr. Johnson at Mr. Sherman's and at his father's, old Mr. Johnson, now 93, still in good health and quite sound in mind for such age. Saw Bates Frayser today. Let Mr. McIlhenny have my buggy on trial. Went down to car shops to see Snyder and Miller to ask them to come to church.
Oct. 25, 1885. Mr. Howison preached on the institution of the Sabbath, its perpetuity and the universal moral obligation to observe, man and beast need it. Regular Indian Summer weather.
Oct. 27, 1885. Mrs. Durfee went to St. Louis on early train with Mr. Howison to visit George. Received a letter from Mattie. She and Mr. Borden were to take a trip this week to Gettysburg, Pa., thence Harrisburg, to Luray's Cave in Virginia and to old Point Comfort.
Oct. 29, 1885. Mrs. Durfee returned from St. Louis last night. George and Minnie taken up with the great Thomas concerts. I called on Dr. Thomas in afternoon.
Oct. 30, 1885. I went with Mr. Alderson to see the Box Factory, they are making a great many boxes, gobacco boxes and hominy boxes. Eleanor Martin called late in afternoon, she goes to St. Louis tomorrow to hear the Thomas concert matinee. Papers report great floods in Virginia.
November
Nov. 2, 1885. A letter from Blanche Gauss today, all well. Received a letter from Shelby Walker and Shagrin Attorneys in Hunsville, Alabama, saying that the former will of Cousin Mary Rice was all right and if this one was broken, that would stand and therefore useless to proceed further. Wrote to them to stop and to Cousin Lou W. Patton. Received a postal from Mattie at Luray's cave in Va., They are having a delightful trip. The street car strikers, Knights of Labor, arrested for dynamiting cars.
Nov. 8, 1885. Sabbath. Mr. Howison preached on the duties of ruling elders in the church and what qualifications for the office. A song service for the children in afternoon.
Nov. 9, 1885. Eugene Gauss in here removing some things to their new home in Boone County. We called on the Martins after tea. Eugene Gauss called to see us and bit us farewell.
Nov. 10, 1885. Mrs. Allen called after dinner. I rode with Mr. Alderson in afternoon down the bottom where they are sawing logs for Box Factory. Mrs. Glenday went with Mrs. Gauss and Sis Gauss to St. Louis.
Nov. 12, 1885. Long letter from Mattie giving an account of trip through Virginia, Luray's Cave, Natural Bridge, Richmond and old Point Comfort. A Postal from Lizzie saying all had had Dengue Fever, all well again. Spent the afternoon at Mr. Gauss'.
Nov. 13, 1885. Mercury 30°, this is the coldest morning we have had. Had a good deal of pain in back of my neck and head -- took electric shock and relieved me -- rheumatism. Mr. and Mrs. Howison came to tea and we afterwards went to Reverend William Parks on a session visitation.
Mov. 14, 1885. Great fire in Galveston, Texas yesterday. George and Minnie came to supper, it has been two months since they were here, they are very well.
Nov. 15, 1885. The yesterday evening papers report that war is decared between Servia [sic] and Bulgaria. Wrote to Tom Johns at Appomattox Court House, Virginia, called on Mrs. Watson in afternoon.
Nov. 19, 1885. Called at Mr. Gauss in afternoon. Session of church met at Mr. J. H. Alexander's tonight. His daughter Emily and children and husband, Jack Martin, go to Florida next week. Met Prof. Meyers this afternoon and he showed me quite a number of letters giving Mr. Campbell a very bad character.
Nov. 23, 1885. Received a letter from Fred today, all well, religious matters take up a great deal of it. I met Mr. Wilson, a brother of Mrs. Frayser today, he is 72 years old, from West Virginia and going to Texas to find a home.
Nov. 24, 1885. Sam Jones, the Georgia Evangelist, is preaching in St. Louis. He is a rough man, full of earnest zeal, bold and fearless in denouncing all forms of sin in the church and out of it. He makes a deep impressioin wherever he goes. His labors are blessed greatly.
Nov. 25, 1885. Daisy Martin called in the morning. Dierker sold Mrs. Durfee's corn at 30¢ per bushel. That is cheaper than corn has sold for years. Wheat is still down too. Eleanor Martin came to tea. The Misses Goebel came from St. Louis for Thanksgiving, were at Prayer Meeting last night.
Nov. 26, 1885. This is Thanksgiving Day all over the land. This is a recognition by all the state and national governments of our dependence on God for all our blessings, temporal and spiritual. We have a great deal to be thankful for as individuals, by society as a people, health, abundance and liverty, civil and religious. Vice-President Hendricks died suddenly yesterday evening. This is a shock to the Democrat party and the whole country. How often death takes the men in Presidency and Vice-Presidency. We had a pleasant Thanksgiving Day, a good sermon by Mr. Howison in the Methodist Church, they took dinner with us and then at 4 o'cl we went to the Barton and Mamie Fielding wedding at the Methodist Church and after supper Shirley and went to an entertainment at Lindenwood. Received a letter from Mattie today.
Nov. 30, 1885. Called in morning on Mrs. Ross and to see Mrs. Hudson. The Elders and wives took tea with Mr. and Mrs. Howison this evening. I called on Mrs. Kramer and Mrs. Sidie. Received a letter from Tom Johns today, he gives an account of the death of his daughter, Alice.
December
Dec. 2, 1885. Had my chimney cleaned out in afternoon. Mrs. Gauss and Mrs. Custer called and Miss Lucy McDearmon and Mrs. Orme called in afternoon. Eleanor Martin called a few minutes.
Dec. 3, 1885. Shirley and I went to St. Louis today. We saw George at the office of the Post Dispatch a few minutes. Spent an hour with Dr. Farris and went to Centenary Church at 10:30 o'cl to hear Sam JOnes by Sam Small preached. He is one of Sam Jones's converts and has been preaching a very short time. He is a cultured man and a graceful and forcible speaker. Heard a talk from Sam Jones at 2:30 o'cl at the St. John M. E. Church. Received a letter from Mattie and Louisa Morgan. Her two sons, John and Rob, have recently been converted and joined the Methodist Church near them. She considered it best to join the same church as her church, Presbyteian is too far off to attend. I praise the Lord that these two boys have been brought into the church.
Dec. 8, 1885. Shirley had his foot cut a little with an axe and he is kept from school today. Saw Theo Gauss today. The evening papers report death suddenly of W. H. Vanderbilt in New York. The Liberal party have carried the election in England.
Dec. 9, 1885. Killed my hogs today, four of them, and cut them up this evening. Eleanor Martin and Miss Overstreet took tea with us. A box of articles came today from Mattie for the Christmas market.
Dec. 11, 1885. The Gausses are packing up finally. Old Winnie Lindsay called this noon, she is a colored woman we have known for years. The Elders and Minister will meet here tonight. Eleanor Martin came over with a picture she has painted for Mattie.
Dec. 12, 1885. Mr. and Mrs. Gauss came over to bid us farewell. It was a sad parting after living side by side in the most intimate and friendly relations for nearly forty years, all our children raised together and some intermarried. Take them all in all they are the best family I ever knew, the most sincere, the most kindly and liberal in Christian causes. It will be but a few years till we all make our last journey to the Heavenly Home. May the blessings of God go with them to their new near Columbia, Missouri. Sis Gauss took dinner with us. Charlotte Shaw called. Shirley went to the Marias Croche lake to skate. Doug Martin has returned.
Dec. 15, 1885. We received a postal from Mattie saying she had sent a dress to Eleanor Martin. I called at Martin's in afternoon. Wrote Mary Pearce and sent some books to children by McRoberts.
Dec. 17, 1885. Tonight the ladies Sewing Society of our church have a Christmas market at the Opera House.
Dec. 19, 1885. The Christmas Market was a great success, made about $170.00, a great many things were sold and a good many people present. Called on Mr. McDearmon in afternoon.
Dec. 21, 1885. Mattie sent by Express today some books for Shirley's Christmas and a presant to Doug Martin and Madge Fielding's wedding. Attended the funeral of old Mrs. Yosti today, aged 79.
Dec. 22, 1885. George came up in forenoon to attend the wedding of Doug Martin and Madge Fielding this afternoon. My wife, Mrs. Glenday, George and I went to the wedding at 3 o'cl p.m. Good many present, pleasant affair. I hope it will be a happy marriage. George came home with us and stayed till 8 o'cl.
Dec. 23, 1885. I sent Mary Pearce some calico and and stockings, candy and money today by Mr. Grantham. Eleanor Martin came over this afternoon. I am troubled a good deal with rheumatism in should[er] and neck.
Dec. 25, 1885. This is a clear bright Christmas Day. All that is good and bright and happy in our lives and our homes comes to us through that blessed Redeemer whose birth the Angels sang about on the plains of Galilee nearly 1900 years ago. I have seen now six and three score Christmas Days. I blessed the Lord for all his goodness to me and mine. Letters from Arthur and Mattie today. A Postal from Ellen Cowan. Mr. Howison dined with us. I went over to Wm Parks in afternoon.
Dec. 27, 1885. Sabbath. This is the last Sunday of 1885. How faster than a weaver's shuttle does time fly. In the morning Mr. Howison preached on the Birth of Christ and at night on the 2d coming of Christ.
Dec. 29, 1885. Took electricity for rheumatism today, I have been troubled a good deal lately with rheumatism in my shoulders and back of my neck. Resalted my pork this morning. Saw Mr. Garvin today.
Dec. 30, 1885. Wrote to my cousin Tom Johns, Appomattox Court House, Va. Eleanor Martin and Madge Overstreet took tea with us.
Dec. 31, 1885. This is the last day of 1885. This year like most others has been filled up with births and deaths and marriages, with accidents to life and property, many deaths among distinguished men. The land has been prosperous, health and large abundance of provision for man and beast, some stringency in money matters and want of employment by laborers. Religious matters have made marked progress in the foreign missions and in revivals at home. The Lord has been good. Received a letter from Mary Johns at Austin, Texas, says Claude is not well. Great excitement there on account of the numerous murders committed in last months and no clue to them. Saw old brother Vardeman and John McDowell, a former citizen, now of Lincoln County. Daisy and Aphra Martin called. It is now nearly 10 o'cl p.m. and we bid farewell to the good year 1885, the Lord be praised for his goodness to us during days, weeks and months.
Source:
Source: Location of handwritten original unknown. Transcription and excerption by Florence Johns. Transcribed to softcopy by Susan D. Chambless, June, 2001.
Notes
- ↑ Cunningham Geike wrote a great many religious works in the 1880s, 90s and later, including a multi volume work entitled "Hours with the Bible". The first several volumes were published in 1881. John Jay Johns' handwriting was pretty bad and worsened with his failing vision, and Florence didn't have the Internet for instant research. In her letters to Minna Reeves, written while she was doing this work, she mentions using maps and various other reference works. --SDC
- ↑ I believe this is JJJ's sister-in-law, wife of his brother Alfred Johns.
