Mamie Frazee Diary
Prologue
by Rick Taylor (1999)
by Rick Taylor (1999)
Once upon a time two of the best farms in Salt Creek township were located on the ridge just south of Chandlersville. These were the Frazee and Moore farms. These farms are the setting for the diary of 18-year-old Mamie Frazee who was visiting her relatives here in August, 1895 with her family.
Mamie Frazee's father, Nathan, was born and raised in Salt Creek township. He was the oldest son of Lewis and Mary Jane Neff Frazee. Nathan moved to Clark County, Missouri, in the early 1870s and married Nellie Reed there in 1875. Their children were Mamie, Edna, Noila, Nathan (Natie) and Leila.
On their visit to Ohio they stayed at Lewis and Mary Jane Frazee's big frame farmhouse that stood on the west side of Big Muskie Drive in what is now a large wooded area just south of Chandlersville.
They visited back and forth with Nathan's sister, Catherine Moore and her husband Ai, and their children, Lewis, May, Ada, Lorena, Anna and Frances. They lived one quarter mile south in what was later commonly known as the Moore sisters red brick farmhouse that is yet standing.
Another sister of Nathan's was Mary Eleanor who had married Robert Clapper. They had a son, Ralph, at the time of the diary, and later had two more children, Hazel and Everett (Happy) Clapper.
Nathan had a younger brother, Lewis C., who is mentioned in the diary just once. He was not in good standing with his father Lewis. He had married Hattie Stanford at about the time the diary was written. They had a son who was born and died in 1896. Their other children were Goldie and Lewis.
Thus there were three generations of Frazees' with the name of Lewis. Lewis (the third) never was married and thus the Frazee name wasn't carried on in Salt Creek township.
In Missouri, however, the Frazee name is still perpetuating. Nathan and Nellie Frazee had a son named Nathan (Natie), and Natie had a son named Nathan. His son and grandson were also named Nathan. So thus far, there have been five generations in Missouri named Nathan.
This begins the diary of Mamie Frazee of Wayland, Missouri.
Mamie Frazee's father, Nathan, was born and raised in Salt Creek township. He was the oldest son of Lewis and Mary Jane Neff Frazee. Nathan moved to Clark County, Missouri, in the early 1870s and married Nellie Reed there in 1875. Their children were Mamie, Edna, Noila, Nathan (Natie) and Leila.
On their visit to Ohio they stayed at Lewis and Mary Jane Frazee's big frame farmhouse that stood on the west side of Big Muskie Drive in what is now a large wooded area just south of Chandlersville.
They visited back and forth with Nathan's sister, Catherine Moore and her husband Ai, and their children, Lewis, May, Ada, Lorena, Anna and Frances. They lived one quarter mile south in what was later commonly known as the Moore sisters red brick farmhouse that is yet standing.
Another sister of Nathan's was Mary Eleanor who had married Robert Clapper. They had a son, Ralph, at the time of the diary, and later had two more children, Hazel and Everett (Happy) Clapper.
Nathan had a younger brother, Lewis C., who is mentioned in the diary just once. He was not in good standing with his father Lewis. He had married Hattie Stanford at about the time the diary was written. They had a son who was born and died in 1896. Their other children were Goldie and Lewis.
Thus there were three generations of Frazees' with the name of Lewis. Lewis (the third) never was married and thus the Frazee name wasn't carried on in Salt Creek township.
In Missouri, however, the Frazee name is still perpetuating. Nathan and Nellie Frazee had a son named Nathan (Natie), and Natie had a son named Nathan. His son and grandson were also named Nathan. So thus far, there have been five generations in Missouri named Nathan.
This begins the diary of Mamie Frazee of Wayland, Missouri.
Tuesday • August 20, 1895
We left Wayland, Missouri, on the 11:30 train for Keokuk, Illinois. Had to ride in the calaboose [jail car] as the train was full and we were bounced from one side of the car to the other. Ate lunch when we got to Keokuk.
Then Edna and I went up town. Edna bought a shirt waist set and black satin tie. We met papa [Nathan]. He gave us money to get ice cream sodas.
He then went and got the children and brought them up to see the parade. He got them each a soda. While standing there we saw Arthur Quick, Mr. and Mrs. Harris and Lee Coe. Then we saw Main's Parade, and it was good, especially the calliope. Then started for the depot and got there about five minutes before the train started.
It was not long till we were speeding on our to Peoria. Met four ladies and two gentlemen from Keokuk. Two of the young ladies names were the Misses Manson and Lowry. We had such a nice time that night. We had about an hour's visit in Peoria.
We then sped on to Logansport, Indiana and thought we would have to change cars there, so woke up the children and started to leave the train when they said we did not have to change [trains].
We then settled ourselves for the rest of the night. Miss Hanson and I took our hair down and braided it. An old colored man came on the train with a basket of peaches, and he said, "Nice soft peaches." We had that for a byword.
Then Edna and I went up town. Edna bought a shirt waist set and black satin tie. We met papa [Nathan]. He gave us money to get ice cream sodas.
He then went and got the children and brought them up to see the parade. He got them each a soda. While standing there we saw Arthur Quick, Mr. and Mrs. Harris and Lee Coe. Then we saw Main's Parade, and it was good, especially the calliope. Then started for the depot and got there about five minutes before the train started.
It was not long till we were speeding on our to Peoria. Met four ladies and two gentlemen from Keokuk. Two of the young ladies names were the Misses Manson and Lowry. We had such a nice time that night. We had about an hour's visit in Peoria.
We then sped on to Logansport, Indiana and thought we would have to change cars there, so woke up the children and started to leave the train when they said we did not have to change [trains].
We then settled ourselves for the rest of the night. Miss Hanson and I took our hair down and braided it. An old colored man came on the train with a basket of peaches, and he said, "Nice soft peaches." We had that for a byword.
wednesday • august 21
We ate breakfast about sunup. Then we fixed our toilets, for we were nearing Columbus. Arrived there about 10 a.m. Our Keokuk friends left us there as the excursion was to Columbus and they were delegates there.
We were there 1½ hours and washed and combed our hair, also ate our dinner. Left Columbus at 11:30 and arrived in Zanesville about the middle of the afternoon, and at Chandlersville, the end of our trip at 4 p.m. Noila left her red silk bag on the train here.
Went to Uncle Chapman's [Nathaniel Chapman, age 85, and his wife, Mary, 81]. Papa met several old friends on the way.
Papa opened the door and went to the kitchen where [the Chapmans] were sitting and there was a time, of course. Papa went [back] to the depot and sent a dispatch about Noila's handbag. Papa was looking for some little boy to go up [on the ridge] and tell the folks we were there, and someone said, "There is Grandpaw [Lewis Frazee, 79]." Mama, [Nellie, 52], Lelie [age 5] and I [Mamie, 18] went up in the buggy with him. Papa [Nathan, 54], Natie [age 7], Nolia [age 10] and Edna [age 17] walked up [to the Frazee house on the ridge].
Arrived at father's old home about 4:30 p.m. Grandma [Mary Jane, 72] had to take a good cry. Three of Aunt Kate's [Catherine Moore, 47] youngest girls [Rena, 13, Anna, 11, and Fannie, 7] were there. They stayed for supper and then went home [to the adjoining Moore farm]. Edna went over after a bucket of buttermilk, and they [the Moore sisters] all came back and stayed till bedtime. This was Fannie Moore's 7th birthday. We retired early.
We were there 1½ hours and washed and combed our hair, also ate our dinner. Left Columbus at 11:30 and arrived in Zanesville about the middle of the afternoon, and at Chandlersville, the end of our trip at 4 p.m. Noila left her red silk bag on the train here.
Went to Uncle Chapman's [Nathaniel Chapman, age 85, and his wife, Mary, 81]. Papa met several old friends on the way.
Papa opened the door and went to the kitchen where [the Chapmans] were sitting and there was a time, of course. Papa went [back] to the depot and sent a dispatch about Noila's handbag. Papa was looking for some little boy to go up [on the ridge] and tell the folks we were there, and someone said, "There is Grandpaw [Lewis Frazee, 79]." Mama, [Nellie, 52], Lelie [age 5] and I [Mamie, 18] went up in the buggy with him. Papa [Nathan, 54], Natie [age 7], Nolia [age 10] and Edna [age 17] walked up [to the Frazee house on the ridge].
Arrived at father's old home about 4:30 p.m. Grandma [Mary Jane, 72] had to take a good cry. Three of Aunt Kate's [Catherine Moore, 47] youngest girls [Rena, 13, Anna, 11, and Fannie, 7] were there. They stayed for supper and then went home [to the adjoining Moore farm]. Edna went over after a bucket of buttermilk, and they [the Moore sisters] all came back and stayed till bedtime. This was Fannie Moore's 7th birthday. We retired early.
thursday • August 22
Ate our first breakfast at Grandma's. Edna helped Nellie Moore [the hired girl] wash the dishes; I made the beds. We were sitting in the sitting room, and someone said, "There is Aunt Eleanor." [Mary Eleanor Clapper, 38, a younger sister of Nathan's].
We all stepped out on the porch when she drove up, and you ought to have seen how surprised she was. Papa was feeling so bad he did not go out. She had her baby, Ralph [age 3]. We had never seen him before. He has red hair and is so sweet. When she came in, Papa said he did not feel too bad to get up and kiss her.
After dinner we all went up to Aunt Kate's [at the adjoining farm] and the first thing Papa did was to get a large stick for Aunt Kate, but he said he didn't believe he would whip her. She told us of one birthday [she was observing her 48th that day] when she had stayed in her room all day, but she dropped some beads our the window and had to go down after them, and Papa slipped up and gave her one good whipping.
We then [now] had all the grandchildren together [of Lewis and Mary Jane Frazee]. I was the eldest and Ralph the youngest, and we were the only red-haired in the family.
They all went back to Grandma's but Edna, Nolia and I. We stayed at Aunt Kate's for supper, and we had a big time. About 7:30 we started back to Grandma's. All our cousins went with us.
When we got there, we saw a light in the front room, and May [16] and I were together. She told me Nellie Moore was going to have company that evening. We slipped around to the front porch to see if he had come. She stepped out and caught us. Nellie asked me to go across the road with her, and we went and sat down on a rock, and while we were there, he came. She introduced me to him and I went where the others were. His name was Ab Smith.
May, Ada, Rena, Fanny, Edna, Anna, Noila and I went around the house and were sitting on the grass and just laughing fit to kill, when Nellie heard us and slipped out and caught us. He had not come then and we were waiting to see him. After he came, we went around in front and sat on the grass, and Fanny slipped up and knocked on the door.
Mamie's annotation: (When he came, the rest of the girls heard him, and they went and sat down in the front door, and no one could get in, and they all got up and just stood there.)
While we were sitting there, Lewis Moore [age 17] came and got Cedar cones and threw them against the door one at a time, and then we all laughed as hard as we could. Then Aunt Kate's [children] went home. Don't know what time Nellie's beau left. Our first day's fun.
We all stepped out on the porch when she drove up, and you ought to have seen how surprised she was. Papa was feeling so bad he did not go out. She had her baby, Ralph [age 3]. We had never seen him before. He has red hair and is so sweet. When she came in, Papa said he did not feel too bad to get up and kiss her.
After dinner we all went up to Aunt Kate's [at the adjoining farm] and the first thing Papa did was to get a large stick for Aunt Kate, but he said he didn't believe he would whip her. She told us of one birthday [she was observing her 48th that day] when she had stayed in her room all day, but she dropped some beads our the window and had to go down after them, and Papa slipped up and gave her one good whipping.
We then [now] had all the grandchildren together [of Lewis and Mary Jane Frazee]. I was the eldest and Ralph the youngest, and we were the only red-haired in the family.
They all went back to Grandma's but Edna, Nolia and I. We stayed at Aunt Kate's for supper, and we had a big time. About 7:30 we started back to Grandma's. All our cousins went with us.
When we got there, we saw a light in the front room, and May [16] and I were together. She told me Nellie Moore was going to have company that evening. We slipped around to the front porch to see if he had come. She stepped out and caught us. Nellie asked me to go across the road with her, and we went and sat down on a rock, and while we were there, he came. She introduced me to him and I went where the others were. His name was Ab Smith.
May, Ada, Rena, Fanny, Edna, Anna, Noila and I went around the house and were sitting on the grass and just laughing fit to kill, when Nellie heard us and slipped out and caught us. He had not come then and we were waiting to see him. After he came, we went around in front and sat on the grass, and Fanny slipped up and knocked on the door.
Mamie's annotation: (When he came, the rest of the girls heard him, and they went and sat down in the front door, and no one could get in, and they all got up and just stood there.)
While we were sitting there, Lewis Moore [age 17] came and got Cedar cones and threw them against the door one at a time, and then we all laughed as hard as we could. Then Aunt Kate's [children] went home. Don't know what time Nellie's beau left. Our first day's fun.
friday • August 23
After breakfast, Anna came over and brought Edna's and my parasols [lightweight umbrellas used by ladies] that we left over there last night. Grandpa killed a sheep this morning, so we will enjoy the nice mutton chops. I sent my first letter to Missouri yesterday, and it was to Dora M Quick. It was a small letter.
Papa went to Chandlersville with Grandpa in the buggy. He called on his old girlfriend, Mary Jane [Herbert]. After we had supper, Grandpa went after him.
All Aunt Kate's [children] came over but Lewis. May and Ada stayed for supper. Nellie asked me to pass the bread, there was only one piece on the plate. I took it, and while she was getting some more I slipped it on her plate and took another piece. She did not know till I told her. I wiped the dishes for her and broke a saucer.
Then we all went with her to milk, and I was milking one cow and she another when she rolled over on the ground, and I sat there and said ha ha, but pretty soon I saw she was crying, so I changed my tune. The cow and stepped on her foot. She said she knew it had taken off three toenails.
Uncle Merrill Crumbaker came by [he had married Lelia Frazee, another sister of Nathan's, but she died March 6, 1891, of consumption at age 36]. Then he told her [Nellie] to wait until he came back, and he would carry her to the house.
Then Edna, May and Nolia went to Aunt Kate's for butter, and Ada and I helped Grandma put the clothes away, and Ada helped me put Edna's and my clothes away. The girls all came back and stayed till dark. We then retired to be ready for another day's work.
Papa went to Chandlersville with Grandpa in the buggy. He called on his old girlfriend, Mary Jane [Herbert]. After we had supper, Grandpa went after him.
All Aunt Kate's [children] came over but Lewis. May and Ada stayed for supper. Nellie asked me to pass the bread, there was only one piece on the plate. I took it, and while she was getting some more I slipped it on her plate and took another piece. She did not know till I told her. I wiped the dishes for her and broke a saucer.
Then we all went with her to milk, and I was milking one cow and she another when she rolled over on the ground, and I sat there and said ha ha, but pretty soon I saw she was crying, so I changed my tune. The cow and stepped on her foot. She said she knew it had taken off three toenails.
Uncle Merrill Crumbaker came by [he had married Lelia Frazee, another sister of Nathan's, but she died March 6, 1891, of consumption at age 36]. Then he told her [Nellie] to wait until he came back, and he would carry her to the house.
Then Edna, May and Nolia went to Aunt Kate's for butter, and Ada and I helped Grandma put the clothes away, and Ada helped me put Edna's and my clothes away. The girls all came back and stayed till dark. We then retired to be ready for another day's work.
saturday • August 24
This is a busy day. Nellie is going home this afternoon. She baked pies, and the crust is a little thick and tough. May came over this a.m. to help with the work. Just as soon as the dinner was over Nellie went home. Grandpa took her and broke down going up the big hill, but was able to get home with a little mending. After supper, Papa, Mamma, Nolia, Natie and Leila went over to Aunt Kate's. Lewis [Moore] and I milked, and May and Edna washed dishes. We then went to Aunt Kate's. Lewis went to Chandlersville. May came back with us and stayed all night.
sunday • august 25
Our first Sunday in Ohio. I helped Grandma get breakfast. After breakfast, May and I milked the cows. Then I made the beds, and went in the wash house and took a good bath. I then got ready for church. Wore my dimity¹ dress and leghorn² hat.
We went to church in the wagon as there were so many of us and had lots of fun if it was Sunday. There were Papa, Lewis, Nolia, May, Anna, Edna and I going down, and you ought to have seen the people look at us. After church we were introduced to quite a number of people. I sat with Lewis [Moore] coming back and made him hold my parasol over me.
Ada [14], stayed home and helped Grandma get the dinner. Aunt Kate's girls went home and changed their dresses, and they all came back for dinner. All we cousins ate at the same table. Ada and I washed the dishes.
Uncle Ai [Moore, age 54], Aunt Kate, Papa and Momma went after Rhetta Roberts [the new hired girl]. Did not get back until dark.
Uncle Merrill and I milked the cows, and then I got ready to go to league. I wore my blue skirt and blue flannel waist and brown hat. I rode Birdie [Grandpa's pony], and the rest walked, and how the people did stare at us. Noila went to sleep, and she rode behind me up home. Lewis, Uncle Merrill, May, Ada, Rena, Anna, Rhetta, Edna, Nolia and myself were the ones who went. Birdie shied several times going home. They all went home. I think I have put in the day pretty well.
We went to church in the wagon as there were so many of us and had lots of fun if it was Sunday. There were Papa, Lewis, Nolia, May, Anna, Edna and I going down, and you ought to have seen the people look at us. After church we were introduced to quite a number of people. I sat with Lewis [Moore] coming back and made him hold my parasol over me.
Ada [14], stayed home and helped Grandma get the dinner. Aunt Kate's girls went home and changed their dresses, and they all came back for dinner. All we cousins ate at the same table. Ada and I washed the dishes.
Uncle Ai [Moore, age 54], Aunt Kate, Papa and Momma went after Rhetta Roberts [the new hired girl]. Did not get back until dark.
Uncle Merrill and I milked the cows, and then I got ready to go to league. I wore my blue skirt and blue flannel waist and brown hat. I rode Birdie [Grandpa's pony], and the rest walked, and how the people did stare at us. Noila went to sleep, and she rode behind me up home. Lewis, Uncle Merrill, May, Ada, Rena, Anna, Rhetta, Edna, Nolia and myself were the ones who went. Birdie shied several times going home. They all went home. I think I have put in the day pretty well.
1. Dimity: a thin cotton fabric, white, dyed, or printed, woven with a stripe or check of heavier yarn
2. Leghorn: a hat made of straw, often having a broad, soft brim
2. Leghorn: a hat made of straw, often having a broad, soft brim
monday • august 26
Rhetta and I milked this morning, and I have been writing in my diary. Mamma is getting ready to wash, and I am going to make the beds. Papa and Uncle Merrill have gone to Uncle Ai's to get water. Natie is spending the day at Aunt Kate's.
I went down before dinner to look at the barn, and I saw Uncle Lewis [Frazee, age 36. He was the youngest brother of Mamie's father Nathan and this is the only time he is mentioned in the diary.]
Nolia was in the cart and was asking him his name. He asked her what her name was, but she would not tell him. Just then the bell rang for dinner, and Grandpa put Lelia on his back to ride to the house.
When we came in the house, Edna was playing on the organ, and Grandpa took Nolia's fan in and fanned her. It was too funny to see him.
I have now fixed my hair down down my back, and I am going to take a horseback ride down to Chandersville. Papa and Uncle Merrill are trying the new harrow¹ and then are going after water. They have brought up six barrels full. Edna and I went with them after dinner and such fun as we did have. I jumped out of the wagon and caught my skirt and tore it off the band. Papa had to help me down. After that I took the ride to Chandlersville.
When I came back, I went to Aunt Kate's. I came back from there, was getting ready to change my dress, when Papa called me and said that Grandma wanted me to go to Aunt Kate's for butter. I saddled Birdie, and Rena came back with me.
After supper, Edna, Natie, Noila, Anna, Ada, Fanny, May and Lewis came over to Grandma's. Lewis had a sack over his back with a watermelon in each end. We all went in the parlor. I was the organist, and we sang till we were all hoarse. Then all went to the dining room and Anna and Nolia had a romp.
I went down before dinner to look at the barn, and I saw Uncle Lewis [Frazee, age 36. He was the youngest brother of Mamie's father Nathan and this is the only time he is mentioned in the diary.]
Nolia was in the cart and was asking him his name. He asked her what her name was, but she would not tell him. Just then the bell rang for dinner, and Grandpa put Lelia on his back to ride to the house.
When we came in the house, Edna was playing on the organ, and Grandpa took Nolia's fan in and fanned her. It was too funny to see him.
I have now fixed my hair down down my back, and I am going to take a horseback ride down to Chandersville. Papa and Uncle Merrill are trying the new harrow¹ and then are going after water. They have brought up six barrels full. Edna and I went with them after dinner and such fun as we did have. I jumped out of the wagon and caught my skirt and tore it off the band. Papa had to help me down. After that I took the ride to Chandlersville.
When I came back, I went to Aunt Kate's. I came back from there, was getting ready to change my dress, when Papa called me and said that Grandma wanted me to go to Aunt Kate's for butter. I saddled Birdie, and Rena came back with me.
After supper, Edna, Natie, Noila, Anna, Ada, Fanny, May and Lewis came over to Grandma's. Lewis had a sack over his back with a watermelon in each end. We all went in the parlor. I was the organist, and we sang till we were all hoarse. Then all went to the dining room and Anna and Nolia had a romp.
1. Harrow: an agricultural implement with spikelike teeth or upright disks, drawn chiefly over plowed land to level it, break up clods, root up weeds, etc.
tuesday • august 27
Well, I have an ironing to do today. Papa is sick this morning. Uncle Ai is upstairs, talking to him. I helped iron and watered Grandma's plants. They are so pretty.
We have been playing Parchesi all afternoon and have just stopped at 6 p.m. We ate a watermelon this afternoon. Uncle Ai and Aunt Kate have come over to spend the evening. I wrote a letter to Herbert Smith this morning. It is raining now. Mr. Ab Smith was this evening. All of Uncle Ai's children were here. Grandpa got out his dollars worth of candy out and divided among us children. Anna stayed all night with Noila, and I slept with Rhetta.
We have been playing Parchesi all afternoon and have just stopped at 6 p.m. We ate a watermelon this afternoon. Uncle Ai and Aunt Kate have come over to spend the evening. I wrote a letter to Herbert Smith this morning. It is raining now. Mr. Ab Smith was this evening. All of Uncle Ai's children were here. Grandpa got out his dollars worth of candy out and divided among us children. Anna stayed all night with Noila, and I slept with Rhetta.
wednesday • August 28
We are all ready to go over to Aunt Kate's and spend the day. Lewis came over in the carriage after us. Mamma, Natie, Lelia, Nolia, and I went over first, and then he went back after Grandpa, Papa, Rhetta and Edna.
Just before dinner, Grandpa and Uncle Merrill came over in the buggy and drove Birdie. We had a lovely dinner. After dinner we played Parchesi. It began to threaten rain, so Lewis put Birdie on the buggy, and I took Grandma and Rhetta home.
About 5 p.m. Lewis brought the carriage and took Ada, Fanny, Lelia, Anna, Nolia and me up to the highest hill [High Hill] in Ohio. Papa, Mama, Rena, Uncle Ai, Aunt Kate, Edna, May, Natie and Lewis went up on a big hill. After taking in the scenery, we all got out and gathered snail shells. Then Ada, Anna, Fanny and I started, and when we got there asked Grandpa if we went up to Grandma's, and he said all right.
Grandma and Rhetta were eating supper. While I was upstairs changing my waist and putting away my shells, Natie came bouncing in. He had run all the way. When we started back, he ran and beat us back to Aunt Kate's.
They are getting supper now. I am sitting on the stairs writing with my hat on. May is coming with the milk. She milked while we were taking our ride. It is now threatening rain. We are all at Aunt Kate's tonight.
Just before dinner, Grandpa and Uncle Merrill came over in the buggy and drove Birdie. We had a lovely dinner. After dinner we played Parchesi. It began to threaten rain, so Lewis put Birdie on the buggy, and I took Grandma and Rhetta home.
About 5 p.m. Lewis brought the carriage and took Ada, Fanny, Lelia, Anna, Nolia and me up to the highest hill [High Hill] in Ohio. Papa, Mama, Rena, Uncle Ai, Aunt Kate, Edna, May, Natie and Lewis went up on a big hill. After taking in the scenery, we all got out and gathered snail shells. Then Ada, Anna, Fanny and I started, and when we got there asked Grandpa if we went up to Grandma's, and he said all right.
Grandma and Rhetta were eating supper. While I was upstairs changing my waist and putting away my shells, Natie came bouncing in. He had run all the way. When we started back, he ran and beat us back to Aunt Kate's.
They are getting supper now. I am sitting on the stairs writing with my hat on. May is coming with the milk. She milked while we were taking our ride. It is now threatening rain. We are all at Aunt Kate's tonight.
The elevation of High Hill is 1,220 feet. Campbell Hill is the highest point in Ohio at 1,550 feet.
thursday • august 29
I am standing and writing at a window in the front room. I slept with Ada. We all slept in the south room upstairs. Natie slept with Lewis.
We are going to Cumberland this morning. Grandma's bell just rang for breakfast. Uncle Ai just came and asked if I had written about the sun being risen. The sun is up behind a little cloud. May is standing beside me and laughing fit to kill. May says breakfast is just about ready.
We ate our breakfast, and uncle Ai took us in the carriage to Grandpa's, and we were ready to take the train to Cumberland. I wore my blue dimity. We had to wait 1½ hours at Chandlersville [for the train].
Well, we are here. The scenery was beautiful coming here, and hills to be seen on every corner. There is just Uncle Theodore [Frazee], Cousin Aggie, and her daughter Nelle. Nelle is a fine musician. She was out in the country giving lessons when we got there. She has now come back and is helping her mother get dinner. They had such a nice dinner.
Before dinner, Cousin Nelle took us in the parlor and left us there to amuse ourselves. They have a square piano.
The Chandersville baseball boys came down on the same train we did and are going to play the boys here. But it is raining so hard they cannot play. Well, they say the rain is over, and the sun is as bright as it can be. Cousin Nelle played and sang for us this afternoon. She has a beautiful voice and plays so well. She put on a red and white pin stripe silk shirt waist and black skirt this afternoon and looked real nice although she is not pretty.
Well, we have had supper. Nelle intended taking us to ride, but it is raining very hard. Dear old Grandma went with us.
We are going to Cumberland this morning. Grandma's bell just rang for breakfast. Uncle Ai just came and asked if I had written about the sun being risen. The sun is up behind a little cloud. May is standing beside me and laughing fit to kill. May says breakfast is just about ready.
We ate our breakfast, and uncle Ai took us in the carriage to Grandpa's, and we were ready to take the train to Cumberland. I wore my blue dimity. We had to wait 1½ hours at Chandlersville [for the train].
Well, we are here. The scenery was beautiful coming here, and hills to be seen on every corner. There is just Uncle Theodore [Frazee], Cousin Aggie, and her daughter Nelle. Nelle is a fine musician. She was out in the country giving lessons when we got there. She has now come back and is helping her mother get dinner. They had such a nice dinner.
Before dinner, Cousin Nelle took us in the parlor and left us there to amuse ourselves. They have a square piano.
The Chandersville baseball boys came down on the same train we did and are going to play the boys here. But it is raining so hard they cannot play. Well, they say the rain is over, and the sun is as bright as it can be. Cousin Nelle played and sang for us this afternoon. She has a beautiful voice and plays so well. She put on a red and white pin stripe silk shirt waist and black skirt this afternoon and looked real nice although she is not pretty.
Well, we have had supper. Nelle intended taking us to ride, but it is raining very hard. Dear old Grandma went with us.
friday • august 30
It rained hard in the night, although the sun was shining very brightly when we got up. It is now clouding up a little. We have had breakfast. Had some of the nicest biscuit and sugar molasses. Before dinner Edna and Nelle played a game of croquet at Miss Emma Zoller's. Edna's partner's name was Fred Glass. Then Nelle and I had to go help and get dinner. Edna and Fred Glass and Wes Ward and I played. Mr. Ward and I beat.
The Miss Zoller was going to recite for us, so we went back to Cousin Aggie's. The name of one of the pieces was "Asleep at the Brake". She spoke about a farmer's daughter who had attended college, and it was so cute. She then went home as she had a class in elocution. She studied at Pittsburg two years and will graduate this year.
Nelle then came down, and went over to have another game of croquet. Nelle and Mr. [?] and Mrs. Harry Stevens and I. We beat them. He was very nice and very nice looking. Mr. Harry Elder and Mr. Fred Glass are both school teachers. Mr. Elder is a spendid cook. He came to Nelle's the other day, she said, and made apple dumplings and ate dinner and Nelle said the dumplings were lovely.
Miss Emma Zoller went with us to the train. She is such a sweet girl. As we came from Cumberland to Chandlersville we passed through a large tunnel. Lewis Moore was at the train [station]. Uncle Ai took us up home, and I am feeling so cool and comfortable in my wrapper. Supper is over. Papa, Lewis and I played Parchesi.
The Miss Zoller was going to recite for us, so we went back to Cousin Aggie's. The name of one of the pieces was "Asleep at the Brake". She spoke about a farmer's daughter who had attended college, and it was so cute. She then went home as she had a class in elocution. She studied at Pittsburg two years and will graduate this year.
Nelle then came down, and went over to have another game of croquet. Nelle and Mr. [?] and Mrs. Harry Stevens and I. We beat them. He was very nice and very nice looking. Mr. Harry Elder and Mr. Fred Glass are both school teachers. Mr. Elder is a spendid cook. He came to Nelle's the other day, she said, and made apple dumplings and ate dinner and Nelle said the dumplings were lovely.
Miss Emma Zoller went with us to the train. She is such a sweet girl. As we came from Cumberland to Chandlersville we passed through a large tunnel. Lewis Moore was at the train [station]. Uncle Ai took us up home, and I am feeling so cool and comfortable in my wrapper. Supper is over. Papa, Lewis and I played Parchesi.
saturday • August 31
We went down to Cousin Billie Frazee's and spent the day. Lewis came after us, and we called at Mr. [Francis] Moorehead's, [the dentist]. And then called at Uncle [Nathaniel] Chapman's. We then came home.
Aunt Kate, Rena, and Anna were there, and they stayed till bedtime. Papa, Lewis, Edna and I had a game of Parchesi¹. Lewis came out first, Papa second, myself third and Edna fourth. We then had a romp all around. Uncle Merrill asked us to take a buggy ride tomorrow afternoon.
Aunt Kate, Rena, and Anna were there, and they stayed till bedtime. Papa, Lewis, Edna and I had a game of Parchesi¹. Lewis came out first, Papa second, myself third and Edna fourth. We then had a romp all around. Uncle Merrill asked us to take a buggy ride tomorrow afternoon.
1. Parcesi (or Pachisi): a board game, originated in ancient India, in which four players advance four pieces each along a route on a cross-shaped board toward a center square by throws of cowrie shells or dice.
sunday • september 1
Our second Sunday in Ohio, and we intend going to the Presbyterian church [in Chandlersville, where the Church of Christ now stands]. Edna, Nolia, Natie, May, Rena, Anna and Fanny went to Sunday School, and I am about ready to go to church. I am going to wear my black skirt and silk waist.
Lewis [Moore] came and Grandpa, Papa, Mamma and Lelia went with him, and I went in the buggy with Uncle Merril. We drove Birdie. Uncle Merril took me to church.
May and Rena came and sat with us. Mr. Tannehill preached. After church Uncle Merril and I went out and stood in the shade. He introduced me to Charley Robinson. May and Edna rode home with me. I drove.
Aunt Kate and Ada stayed at Grandma's and got dinner. Papa took the girls up to Uncle Ai's and they changed their dresses, and Uncle Ai came back with them. We all ate at the first table except Grandma, Aunt Kate and Ada. While they were eating, May, Edna and I washed all the dirty dishes and pans.
We all got ready to go to High Hill. Lewis, Ada and I sat on the back seat going, and Uncle Merrill, Edna and May on the front seat. Ada stopped at home and changed her dress, and I ran around the house and got a handful of little blue grapes. Then we were away for High Hill.
It was up one hill and down another all the way there. We passed Poverty Point. We saw Uncle Stamen Neff and then drove down to see Cousin Sarah. We saw them draw up water on four wheels run on wires from the spring. We then started on our way back to Grandmaw's. Edna dropped her handkerchief out several times to get to stand on rocks as large as a room and just level with the ground, or to gather some little thing along the road. She dropped her handkerchief out when we passed some peach trees, and she and May got their hands full. We went to Christian Endeavor [at Chandlersville] and enjoyed it very much.
Lewis [Moore] came and Grandpa, Papa, Mamma and Lelia went with him, and I went in the buggy with Uncle Merril. We drove Birdie. Uncle Merril took me to church.
May and Rena came and sat with us. Mr. Tannehill preached. After church Uncle Merril and I went out and stood in the shade. He introduced me to Charley Robinson. May and Edna rode home with me. I drove.
Aunt Kate and Ada stayed at Grandma's and got dinner. Papa took the girls up to Uncle Ai's and they changed their dresses, and Uncle Ai came back with them. We all ate at the first table except Grandma, Aunt Kate and Ada. While they were eating, May, Edna and I washed all the dirty dishes and pans.
We all got ready to go to High Hill. Lewis, Ada and I sat on the back seat going, and Uncle Merrill, Edna and May on the front seat. Ada stopped at home and changed her dress, and I ran around the house and got a handful of little blue grapes. Then we were away for High Hill.
It was up one hill and down another all the way there. We passed Poverty Point. We saw Uncle Stamen Neff and then drove down to see Cousin Sarah. We saw them draw up water on four wheels run on wires from the spring. We then started on our way back to Grandmaw's. Edna dropped her handkerchief out several times to get to stand on rocks as large as a room and just level with the ground, or to gather some little thing along the road. She dropped her handkerchief out when we passed some peach trees, and she and May got their hands full. We went to Christian Endeavor [at Chandlersville] and enjoyed it very much.
monday • September 2
This is wash day and I helped Mamma wash. The children all started to school this morning [in Chandlersville]. I took a sick spell and took a nap to get rid of it.
Just before dinner Grandpa came with the new girl [hired help]. After dinner we did our ironing. Aunt Kate came over and stayed all afternoon. Then the children came home. Nolia had went to school with them.
I started to walk over with them when Lewis [Moore] caught up with us. He was riding Bill, and I got up on the fence and got on behind him and all of sudden old Bill began to buck. I had a good hold on Lewis, and Nolia said to Lewis, If you don't let her off, I'll knock your head off! I just sat there and laughed.
I read Thaddeus of Warsaw till supper was ready, then May, Ada and I went to milk; took a bucket apiece. Had Rena stay and help Aunt Kate wash the dishes. We had a cow apiece. May was milking away and all of a sudden her cow began to buck, and then she kicked the bucket over. May rolled over and Ada, too, and both their cows ran away. I just sat on my box and laughed (not very hard for me to do). May said my mouth was spread from ear to ear.
They got their cows [back] and at last we finished milking, and when we got around the barn we saw a horse at the front gate. It was some young boy from above someplace, and we put the milk on the stairs and ran around and sat on the porch.
Aunt Kate told May to tell him to bring his fiddle over and have some music. But May wouldn't do it, so Uncle Ai asked him. Then we put the milk away. After that, May, Ada, Rena and I went to feed the calves. Rena and I hid in a stall, and then we ran away to hide from them. They ran to the house. May and I were fastening up the chicken coops, and Ada and Rena came over to help us. We sat on the stiles for about an hour and then went upstairs and to bed.
Just before dinner Grandpa came with the new girl [hired help]. After dinner we did our ironing. Aunt Kate came over and stayed all afternoon. Then the children came home. Nolia had went to school with them.
I started to walk over with them when Lewis [Moore] caught up with us. He was riding Bill, and I got up on the fence and got on behind him and all of sudden old Bill began to buck. I had a good hold on Lewis, and Nolia said to Lewis, If you don't let her off, I'll knock your head off! I just sat there and laughed.
I read Thaddeus of Warsaw till supper was ready, then May, Ada and I went to milk; took a bucket apiece. Had Rena stay and help Aunt Kate wash the dishes. We had a cow apiece. May was milking away and all of a sudden her cow began to buck, and then she kicked the bucket over. May rolled over and Ada, too, and both their cows ran away. I just sat on my box and laughed (not very hard for me to do). May said my mouth was spread from ear to ear.
They got their cows [back] and at last we finished milking, and when we got around the barn we saw a horse at the front gate. It was some young boy from above someplace, and we put the milk on the stairs and ran around and sat on the porch.
Aunt Kate told May to tell him to bring his fiddle over and have some music. But May wouldn't do it, so Uncle Ai asked him. Then we put the milk away. After that, May, Ada, Rena and I went to feed the calves. Rena and I hid in a stall, and then we ran away to hide from them. They ran to the house. May and I were fastening up the chicken coops, and Ada and Rena came over to help us. We sat on the stiles for about an hour and then went upstairs and to bed.
tuesday • september 3
May and I slept together, and May said I had a death grip on the covers, and every time I turned over, I took them with me. I kept her busy all night trying to keep part of the covering.
As soon as I ate my breakfast, I went over to Grandma's for we go to Salt Creek [Clay Pike area] today. I wore my silk waist and black skirt. We went to the Sunday School Convention [at Salt Creek Baptist Church].
After church, saw Cousin Chris Neff. He introduced me to our cousins of Norma Miller of Emporia, Kansas, and Cousin Carrie Neff. We ate dinner with Cousin Rye Neff, and after dinner Norma and I, Edna and Carrie took a walk. (We had gone through a wilderness going up to Salt Creek church).
Cousin Norma then introduced us to Cousin Grace Smith, and her Cousin Miss Smith. We all went in the church together. We left before the convention was over and went to Cousin Mary Smith [wife of George Smith and daughter of Sam Neff] and took supper and saw their old Indian woman [Mrs. Jane Harris]. She is 78 years old that they know of. Just before supper Grace came, and after supper Cousin Will.
After supper we went to Cousin Rye Neff's, [the Washington Neff farm more lately owned by Millard Grear] and stayed the night. I am writing in the moonlight. There was an eclipse of the moon, and we all saw it. They woke me up to see it.
As soon as I ate my breakfast, I went over to Grandma's for we go to Salt Creek [Clay Pike area] today. I wore my silk waist and black skirt. We went to the Sunday School Convention [at Salt Creek Baptist Church].
After church, saw Cousin Chris Neff. He introduced me to our cousins of Norma Miller of Emporia, Kansas, and Cousin Carrie Neff. We ate dinner with Cousin Rye Neff, and after dinner Norma and I, Edna and Carrie took a walk. (We had gone through a wilderness going up to Salt Creek church).
Cousin Norma then introduced us to Cousin Grace Smith, and her Cousin Miss Smith. We all went in the church together. We left before the convention was over and went to Cousin Mary Smith [wife of George Smith and daughter of Sam Neff] and took supper and saw their old Indian woman [Mrs. Jane Harris]. She is 78 years old that they know of. Just before supper Grace came, and after supper Cousin Will.
After supper we went to Cousin Rye Neff's, [the Washington Neff farm more lately owned by Millard Grear] and stayed the night. I am writing in the moonlight. There was an eclipse of the moon, and we all saw it. They woke me up to see it.
wednesday • september 4
After breakfast [at the Washington Neff place on the Clay Pike], we all went over to call on my great-uncle Sam Neff [the present residence of Thelma Daily]. Cousin Chris [Neff] came over after breakfast and said he was very sorry but he would have to go to Zanesville. He got back while we were eating dinner.
Uncle Sam came over and stayed till we left. Chris went over and got his flute, and he played for us. After dinner, Cousin Chris, Norma, Carrie, Grace, Edna, Nolia, Papa and I all sang out of the Gospel Hymns, No. 5. Then Nolia and Edna spoke for us. Grace came over for dinner.
After we had finished our concert, we got ready to go home. We went the hill road and had such a pleasant ride. Came through Chandlersville. Got home before the rain. After supper grandfather [Lewis Frazee] and I had quite a chat.
Uncle Sam came over and stayed till we left. Chris went over and got his flute, and he played for us. After dinner, Cousin Chris, Norma, Carrie, Grace, Edna, Nolia, Papa and I all sang out of the Gospel Hymns, No. 5. Then Nolia and Edna spoke for us. Grace came over for dinner.
After we had finished our concert, we got ready to go home. We went the hill road and had such a pleasant ride. Came through Chandlersville. Got home before the rain. After supper grandfather [Lewis Frazee] and I had quite a chat.
thursday • september 5
After breakfast Nolia and I had a game of Parchesi. I came out ahead. Came upstairs and helped Rhetta make the beds, and I am going to sleep now. It is raining. We intended to go to Uncle Chapman's (He is deaf and uses a big horn). Don't know if we shall or not. Well, it cleared up and we went to Uncle Chapman's. We had a pleasant time.
After dinner, Edna and I are going to visit the school. But it rained. At last cleared away. So Cousin Eleanor Kelley [daughter of N. Chapman] said we had better to as we might not have another chance. So we went and stayed about a half hour and then we came back to Uncle Chapman's.
Uncle Merrill [Crumbaker] came after us and played two games of croquet with Edna and Rhetta and the other with Nolia and May, and Edna beat both times. Uncle Merrill went to Chandlersville and got a violin string, and all of Uncle Ai's [children] came over and we had music. All the girls went out in the dining room while Edna was playing with him, and we put on old coats and hats and went around to the front door and marched through the parlor.
As we were going to Uncle Chapman's [earlier] Lewis [Moore] was standing in the Post Office door, and he gave me a letter. It was from John Chapman and he has written a parody of "Sweet Marie." Uncle Ai's [hands] are threshing today. Aunt Kate made 18 loaves of bread.
After dinner, Edna and I are going to visit the school. But it rained. At last cleared away. So Cousin Eleanor Kelley [daughter of N. Chapman] said we had better to as we might not have another chance. So we went and stayed about a half hour and then we came back to Uncle Chapman's.
Uncle Merrill [Crumbaker] came after us and played two games of croquet with Edna and Rhetta and the other with Nolia and May, and Edna beat both times. Uncle Merrill went to Chandlersville and got a violin string, and all of Uncle Ai's [children] came over and we had music. All the girls went out in the dining room while Edna was playing with him, and we put on old coats and hats and went around to the front door and marched through the parlor.
As we were going to Uncle Chapman's [earlier] Lewis [Moore] was standing in the Post Office door, and he gave me a letter. It was from John Chapman and he has written a parody of "Sweet Marie." Uncle Ai's [hands] are threshing today. Aunt Kate made 18 loaves of bread.
friday • september 6
We got up with the intention of driving to Aunt Eleanor's, but Grandpa wanted to use the horses, so he took us to the train [station]. Grandma went with us, and while we were driving down Main St. [of Chandlersville] the train whistled. Papa whipped the horses, and we got up and hurried out and the conductor was in the [depot] office writing. Papa asked if he had time to get tickets, and he said "yes."
When we got to Carlwick, Papa, Edna, Nolia, Natie and Lelia all walked up [to Robert and Eleanor Clapper's], and we waited at the station till Uncle Robert came after us. I drove Flora up, and he walked. They thought we were coming in the big spring wagon.
Aunt Eleanor had a lovely dinner [she was a sister of Mamie's father, Nathan] and I did enjoy it for everything was good. Aunt Eleanor is getting supper now.
I wrote Dora again yesterday. I put in the afternoon reading. I was worn out. I wore my blue skirt and flannel waist and was about smothered. I thought I could not get in valise [traveling bag]. It was locked, so Aunt Eleanor gave me a waist of hers to put on. It turned out that my valise was not locked at all. I had just put on the waist when Edna went to the valise, so I put on my own waist [upper garment]. Edna and I slept in the front room.
When we got to Carlwick, Papa, Edna, Nolia, Natie and Lelia all walked up [to Robert and Eleanor Clapper's], and we waited at the station till Uncle Robert came after us. I drove Flora up, and he walked. They thought we were coming in the big spring wagon.
Aunt Eleanor had a lovely dinner [she was a sister of Mamie's father, Nathan] and I did enjoy it for everything was good. Aunt Eleanor is getting supper now.
I wrote Dora again yesterday. I put in the afternoon reading. I was worn out. I wore my blue skirt and flannel waist and was about smothered. I thought I could not get in valise [traveling bag]. It was locked, so Aunt Eleanor gave me a waist of hers to put on. It turned out that my valise was not locked at all. I had just put on the waist when Edna went to the valise, so I put on my own waist [upper garment]. Edna and I slept in the front room.
saturday • september 7
I spent today reading Ladies Home Journal, Chicago Ledgers, and Demorest magazine. We had another good dinner. While we were eating, Papa and Robert [Clapper] came. They had been to Zanesville. Papa had a large watermelon.
After we got the dishes done, I took my hair down to comb it. And Aunt Eleanor took the scissors and cut a lock. After that we carved the melon, and then got ready to go to the train. While Uncle Robert was getting the horses ready, a train whistled, and Papa says, "Yonder comes the train." I started to run, and they said it was the local [train]. Grandma, Robert and I went down in the buggy. We had to wait nearly an hour [for the next train].
The folks were not at the [Chandlersville] depot when we got there, and Papa started to go up and get a rig for us to go up in. Then he saw the children on the platform and came back and said if we could not take care of them we could walk up [the hill]. So we started and got as far as Fogel's [the Paul and Marilyn Brosie residence] and saw grandpa coming. So we got to ride up after all. Edna and Nolia walked up. We had a game of croquet after supper and I beat. [Note: Mamie Frazee had one wooden leg. She had gotten in the gears of a pole sweep when she was a small girl which crushed her lower leg forcing amputation].
After we got the dishes done, I took my hair down to comb it. And Aunt Eleanor took the scissors and cut a lock. After that we carved the melon, and then got ready to go to the train. While Uncle Robert was getting the horses ready, a train whistled, and Papa says, "Yonder comes the train." I started to run, and they said it was the local [train]. Grandma, Robert and I went down in the buggy. We had to wait nearly an hour [for the next train].
The folks were not at the [Chandlersville] depot when we got there, and Papa started to go up and get a rig for us to go up in. Then he saw the children on the platform and came back and said if we could not take care of them we could walk up [the hill]. So we started and got as far as Fogel's [the Paul and Marilyn Brosie residence] and saw grandpa coming. So we got to ride up after all. Edna and Nolia walked up. We had a game of croquet after supper and I beat. [Note: Mamie Frazee had one wooden leg. She had gotten in the gears of a pole sweep when she was a small girl which crushed her lower leg forcing amputation].
sunday • september 8
I intended going to church, but did not go. I took a bath and combed and curled my hair and stepped out on the porch, and a spring wagon drove up, and here were cousins Wash, Rye, Carrie, and Norma to spend the day.
We did have the best time. Cousin Chris wanted to Smoke and we wouldn't let him. He asked me to answer his letter when I got home, and I promised I would. We had so much fun at the table laughing at Papa and Cousin Chris. They were the last ones done eating, and we kept passing things to them till we had everything at their end of the table.
After they left, May, Edna and I combed our hair, and I put on my white Swiss waist and blue skirt (and I had a letter in the back of my waist). I rode Birdie, and the rest walked. They were May, Edna, Rhetta and Lewis. I had a time coming home. There were some boys who were acting kind of smart, and I guess they thought I would ride along with them, but they got left. Uncle Merrill gave me a bottle of perfumery and a bottle of lozenges today.
We did have the best time. Cousin Chris wanted to Smoke and we wouldn't let him. He asked me to answer his letter when I got home, and I promised I would. We had so much fun at the table laughing at Papa and Cousin Chris. They were the last ones done eating, and we kept passing things to them till we had everything at their end of the table.
After they left, May, Edna and I combed our hair, and I put on my white Swiss waist and blue skirt (and I had a letter in the back of my waist). I rode Birdie, and the rest walked. They were May, Edna, Rhetta and Lewis. I had a time coming home. There were some boys who were acting kind of smart, and I guess they thought I would ride along with them, but they got left. Uncle Merrill gave me a bottle of perfumery and a bottle of lozenges today.
monday • september 9
May, Edna and I slept together last night. We washed this a.m. and got it out early. Anna came over and would turn the wringer for me. Aunt Kate's are all coming over this afternoon, and we are going to Mr. McClelland's funeral [James McClelland, age 28].
Just after dinner Uncle Theodore Frazee [Old Lewis's brother] and Nellie Squier came. They had not had dinner. Grandma fixed dinner, and as soon as they ate, they skipped out.
Papa, Aunt Kate, Mamma, Edna, Rena and I went to the funeral. May was all ready when Aunt Kate came over, and we waited for her to come, so Papa drove over, and Ada hunted and hollered for her. She was not to be found. So we went without her, and when we came home May was at Grandma's. A bumble bee had stung her on the ear, and it was very red.
They all stayed for supper, and the girls then went home to do the work. This is the evening that our visitors were coming, and they did. Mr. Charley Robinson and Ed Robinson, Misses Jean and Ella Chambers, Mary Moorehead, Maggie Rose, and Mr. and Mrs. Carey Herbert. We had a fine time, such a pleasant evening. After they left, Edna, Noila and I went home with May.
Just after dinner Uncle Theodore Frazee [Old Lewis's brother] and Nellie Squier came. They had not had dinner. Grandma fixed dinner, and as soon as they ate, they skipped out.
Papa, Aunt Kate, Mamma, Edna, Rena and I went to the funeral. May was all ready when Aunt Kate came over, and we waited for her to come, so Papa drove over, and Ada hunted and hollered for her. She was not to be found. So we went without her, and when we came home May was at Grandma's. A bumble bee had stung her on the ear, and it was very red.
They all stayed for supper, and the girls then went home to do the work. This is the evening that our visitors were coming, and they did. Mr. Charley Robinson and Ed Robinson, Misses Jean and Ella Chambers, Mary Moorehead, Maggie Rose, and Mr. and Mrs. Carey Herbert. We had a fine time, such a pleasant evening. After they left, Edna, Noila and I went home with May.
tuesday • september 10
Edna and I came home early and helped do the ironing. After dinner, Aunt Kate's all came over and stayed till supper time. May and Ada stayed till after supper, and Edna, Nolia, and I went home with them again and we had lots of fun. Played Backgammon and Parchesi. They all played Blindman's bluff and I Spy. I did not play but watched on.
Rhetta [Roberts] moved over to Aunt Kate's this evening and is going to stay there and go to school at Chandlersville. After Ada and I had gone to sleep, May and Edna jumped on us and woke us up.
Rhetta [Roberts] moved over to Aunt Kate's this evening and is going to stay there and go to school at Chandlersville. After Ada and I had gone to sleep, May and Edna jumped on us and woke us up.
wednesday • september 11
We did not get up till the sun was way up in the sky. I wrote John today. I helped Ada wash the dishes and then helped May clean lamps. Then we played Parchesi till time to come to Grandma's. Just before we started, we ate a watermelon. I came over bareheaded as I did not wear anything on my head last night. Ada held a parasol over me. They are playing croquet. The girls did not go to school today. Uncle Merrill brought us silk handkerchiefs and music.
thursday • september 12
I baked a cake for Grandma today and it was so nice, a wonder. It was a lemon jelly white cake. Papa went to Zanesville to the fair today with Grandpa. Uncle Ai, and Lewis [Moore]. They were caught in the rain coming home. Mamma and the children went to Aunt Kate's.
This afternoon, Uncle Merrill took us to town [Chandlersville] to visit the school. I had a funny picture, and I put it behind my fan and made the children laugh. At recess he [Uncle Merrill] came after us and we took a ride to Freeland and going there Edna and I got out and drank out of a natural spring. It ran out of an iron pipe.
Coming home, Edna dropped her handkerchief on purpose and went in a coal mine. She came out, gave the car a little shove, and it went in and she just hollered at Uncle Merrill. Well, we had a fine time all around.
This afternoon, Uncle Merrill took us to town [Chandlersville] to visit the school. I had a funny picture, and I put it behind my fan and made the children laugh. At recess he [Uncle Merrill] came after us and we took a ride to Freeland and going there Edna and I got out and drank out of a natural spring. It ran out of an iron pipe.
Coming home, Edna dropped her handkerchief on purpose and went in a coal mine. She came out, gave the car a little shove, and it went in and she just hollered at Uncle Merrill. Well, we had a fine time all around.
friday • september 13
Uncle Merrill asked Grandpa if he was going to use Birdie and he said "yes, I am going to Rich Hill." So May and Edna asked if they could go along with him, and he told them they could. How delighted they were. Edna got a package of ginger snaps, and May put some pears in her sleeve, and away they went.
Uncle Merrill then got a horse and buggy at Chandlersville and took me for a ride, and it was a ride to be sure. We went by way of High Hill and back to Salem [Methodist] and Mt. Zion [Presbyterian] churches. We were on what is considered the highest hill in Ohio, and we stood and looked over the surrounding country. Can see the Appalachian mountains. We passed a spring. It was so high that the pipe ran two or three feet above the ground, and I got out and held my head under it and drank. We saw a phantom horse and buggy, and we missed the road here and started to Cumberland. We passed over the [O.R.&W.] tunnel and then went toward Rich Hill and then down to Chandlersville. We had intended calling at [Issac] Robinson's and [Robert] McIntire's, but they were not at home. The girls had a big time and I enjoyed my ride.
Uncle Merrill then got a horse and buggy at Chandlersville and took me for a ride, and it was a ride to be sure. We went by way of High Hill and back to Salem [Methodist] and Mt. Zion [Presbyterian] churches. We were on what is considered the highest hill in Ohio, and we stood and looked over the surrounding country. Can see the Appalachian mountains. We passed a spring. It was so high that the pipe ran two or three feet above the ground, and I got out and held my head under it and drank. We saw a phantom horse and buggy, and we missed the road here and started to Cumberland. We passed over the [O.R.&W.] tunnel and then went toward Rich Hill and then down to Chandlersville. We had intended calling at [Issac] Robinson's and [Robert] McIntire's, but they were not at home. The girls had a big time and I enjoyed my ride.
saturday • september 14
May and Ada stayed all night with us last night. Today is May's [Moore] 16th birthday. Edna woke up and was trying to whip her. Papa heard her and came in and whipped her. We washed and I went upstairs to change my hose and I started to put May under the bed, but she was so stout. So Edna and Ada came and helped and we had all we could do to put her under. I had to hold her down while Edna and Ada pulled her out.
Well, a man came this morning to take our picture [a family portrait]. We went down to the barn, all of the family and Uncle Ai's and Grandpa and Grandma and our family. They all went home after dinner.
Uncle Merrill took Edna and me down to Mrs. [Alice] Given's, [a sister of Merrill] as we were invited there [in Chandlersville] for supper. We had a nice time. While Mrs. Given was getting the supper, we went down to the tennis court [in Lil' Texas], and Mr. [John] Given, Uncle Merrill, and Edna played.
When we came back Edna did her shopping. Supper was ready when we came back, and everything was so dainty and nice. Florence [Given] is so pretty, but Kenneth [Given] is my boy. [The Givens ran the drugstore in Chandlersville]. After supper Uncle Merrill went up after May and Ada, but they would not let them go. So he came back, and we went to the Misses Chambers' [the present residence of Lawrence and Adeline Eck, which was then Dr. Robert Chambers residence] to spend the evening. They were Mr. Herbert and wife, Charlie and Angie Robinson, Maggie Rose, and Mary Moorehead. We had a lovely time.
Well, a man came this morning to take our picture [a family portrait]. We went down to the barn, all of the family and Uncle Ai's and Grandpa and Grandma and our family. They all went home after dinner.
Uncle Merrill took Edna and me down to Mrs. [Alice] Given's, [a sister of Merrill] as we were invited there [in Chandlersville] for supper. We had a nice time. While Mrs. Given was getting the supper, we went down to the tennis court [in Lil' Texas], and Mr. [John] Given, Uncle Merrill, and Edna played.
When we came back Edna did her shopping. Supper was ready when we came back, and everything was so dainty and nice. Florence [Given] is so pretty, but Kenneth [Given] is my boy. [The Givens ran the drugstore in Chandlersville]. After supper Uncle Merrill went up after May and Ada, but they would not let them go. So he came back, and we went to the Misses Chambers' [the present residence of Lawrence and Adeline Eck, which was then Dr. Robert Chambers residence] to spend the evening. They were Mr. Herbert and wife, Charlie and Angie Robinson, Maggie Rose, and Mary Moorehead. We had a lovely time.
sunday • september 15
We did not go to church today. The girls came over and have been here all day. We went to Endeavor and church this evening. May, Ada, Rhetta, Minnie, Lewis and I rode in the buggy, and we got to see sweet little Ed. Aunt Kate stayed all night at Grandma's, and Fanny had the croup.
monday • september 16
We are fixing to go home today and ironed and packed our trunks. Uncle Merrill gave me a handkerchief that belonged to Aunt Leila [his late wife]. Edna and May went to Chandlersville and got caught in the rain. Uncle Merrill went after them. Papa came in and gave me a letter I had written to John Chapman, and he had forgotten to mail it. May just gave me a card. We got all our things packed. Aunt Kate and Rena stayed the night.
tuesday • september 17
We were up bright and early this morning. The girls came over early. Uncle Ai came in his carriage to take part of us girls to the train [station]. All the girls went down with us. Part with Uncle Merrill and part with Uncle Ai.
We were there in plenty of time, so May, Ada, Edna and I went to tell Mrs. Given goodbye. She was washing the dishes, and Kenneth and Florence were only partly dressed. Mary Jane [Herbert] came over and bid us goodbye.
We then went to the train [station]. Ed Robinson came down before train time, and we had lots of fun talking. Then the train whistled, and I bid them all goodbye. Ed came and told me goodbye. We were then on our way home, and left poor old Grandma.
We passed by Aunt Eleanor's [at Carlwick] and I was at the window and waved my handkerchief. She was on the porch and recognized us, and Papa hollered at her [his sister]. She brought little Ralph to the edge of the porch, and he waved his little hand.
At the Zanesville depot there were two ladies, and they had a large St. Bernard dog, and he was a monster. And another lady had a dog about as large as a kitten nearly grown.
We left for Newark at 9:45 a.m. and changed from one car to another going to Columbus. Arrived there at 11:30. Going from Zanesville to Newark had to ride in the smoker [coach] and it was not very agreeable, though some of them had manners enough not to smoke.
When we got to Columbus we found we would have to wait until 8 p.m. or after so ate our dinner. Then Papa took Edna, Nolia and me up on the electric car to the state house, and we had a nice time going through it. Papa was one of Lincoln's bodyguards¹. We also saw the flag that Papa was under. We also registered and wrote on a desk used by Edward Tiffin, first Governor of Ohio 1803 to 1807. We then went up in the dome, and I thought I should never get up [the stairs]. It was up and around every step you took. There were a good 180. We cut our names on the window sill. Papa had cut his there about 40 years ago.
We then walked about three and a half blocks to where an old schoolmate of Papa's had a grocery store. He did not know Papa, who had not seen him for 40 years. We then came back to the depot, and then the rest got on and rode as far as the streetcar went. We all got ice cream sodas as we went to see Mr. Stevens. Martha Young is with us. There were about 18 young ladies from the deaf and dumb asylum. They were not all deaf and dumb. They were going home and it was interesting to watch them. We were talking to a young gentleman, and he said we would be doubly paid to visit their asylum.
We still have a long time to wait. Papa and Mamma have gone after an ice cream soda. Well, at last we are started [on the train] and we are crowded. To be sure. Edna got up to speak to Mama, and a boy and girl came in, and she asked if that seat was taken, and I said "Yes." He said that he didn't know that there were reserved seats.
We then started and I came very near getting my everlasting by having my head out the window. Looking back I saw a policeman waving and hollering and at last saw it was me he was talking to. I only got my head in till we passed a large pillar which was so close to the car it would have taken my head off, I suppose.
We were there in plenty of time, so May, Ada, Edna and I went to tell Mrs. Given goodbye. She was washing the dishes, and Kenneth and Florence were only partly dressed. Mary Jane [Herbert] came over and bid us goodbye.
We then went to the train [station]. Ed Robinson came down before train time, and we had lots of fun talking. Then the train whistled, and I bid them all goodbye. Ed came and told me goodbye. We were then on our way home, and left poor old Grandma.
We passed by Aunt Eleanor's [at Carlwick] and I was at the window and waved my handkerchief. She was on the porch and recognized us, and Papa hollered at her [his sister]. She brought little Ralph to the edge of the porch, and he waved his little hand.
At the Zanesville depot there were two ladies, and they had a large St. Bernard dog, and he was a monster. And another lady had a dog about as large as a kitten nearly grown.
We left for Newark at 9:45 a.m. and changed from one car to another going to Columbus. Arrived there at 11:30. Going from Zanesville to Newark had to ride in the smoker [coach] and it was not very agreeable, though some of them had manners enough not to smoke.
When we got to Columbus we found we would have to wait until 8 p.m. or after so ate our dinner. Then Papa took Edna, Nolia and me up on the electric car to the state house, and we had a nice time going through it. Papa was one of Lincoln's bodyguards¹. We also saw the flag that Papa was under. We also registered and wrote on a desk used by Edward Tiffin, first Governor of Ohio 1803 to 1807. We then went up in the dome, and I thought I should never get up [the stairs]. It was up and around every step you took. There were a good 180. We cut our names on the window sill. Papa had cut his there about 40 years ago.
We then walked about three and a half blocks to where an old schoolmate of Papa's had a grocery store. He did not know Papa, who had not seen him for 40 years. We then came back to the depot, and then the rest got on and rode as far as the streetcar went. We all got ice cream sodas as we went to see Mr. Stevens. Martha Young is with us. There were about 18 young ladies from the deaf and dumb asylum. They were not all deaf and dumb. They were going home and it was interesting to watch them. We were talking to a young gentleman, and he said we would be doubly paid to visit their asylum.
We still have a long time to wait. Papa and Mamma have gone after an ice cream soda. Well, at last we are started [on the train] and we are crowded. To be sure. Edna got up to speak to Mama, and a boy and girl came in, and she asked if that seat was taken, and I said "Yes." He said that he didn't know that there were reserved seats.
We then started and I came very near getting my everlasting by having my head out the window. Looking back I saw a policeman waving and hollering and at last saw it was me he was talking to. I only got my head in till we passed a large pillar which was so close to the car it would have taken my head off, I suppose.
1. On October 8, 1862, while fighting in the Civil War, Nathan Frazee was wounded in the left hand. The army surgeons wanted to amputate the hand, but he refused to allow it and carried the bullet for 8 months until he got a furlough. He then went to his home where the family physician cut the bullet out. His hand was left crippled enough that he could no longer play the violin, but otherwise he had good use of it. When Lincoln's body was lying in state in Columbus, Ohio, Nathan was one of the President's bodyguards. — per Jim Frazee (Mamie's nephew/Natie's son)
wednesday • september 18
We changed cars at Logansport, Ind., and we were not so crowded from there to Peoria. About daylight I went to sleep and look a long nap. When I awoke, I washed and combed my hair, as we were nearing Peoria. We arrived at about 9:15 a.m.
Then took the Adams streetcar for Cousin Lee Miner's [home]. Cousin Eleanor saw us coming and came to meet us. The girls were at school. There were two ladies who came to take dinner, Mrs. Ellis and Mrs. Shaw. Just before dinner the two girls came. After dinner we went to the cemetery and had a good long walk, got a drink at the spring in the cemetery. We got back just a little while before supper. I put Ida's wrapper on. Ida and I slept at the Durham's.
Then took the Adams streetcar for Cousin Lee Miner's [home]. Cousin Eleanor saw us coming and came to meet us. The girls were at school. There were two ladies who came to take dinner, Mrs. Ellis and Mrs. Shaw. Just before dinner the two girls came. After dinner we went to the cemetery and had a good long walk, got a drink at the spring in the cemetery. We got back just a little while before supper. I put Ida's wrapper on. Ida and I slept at the Durham's.
thursday • September 19
May came over at about 7 a.m. and woke us up. After breakfast, we had a game of croquet, and Ida and I beat. We then went up in the city. Went in four or five stores as the girls wanted to get shirt waists and did not find any that suited.
Then we got on the wrong car and went to West Bluff instead of East Bluff. We came back, went home, and now are going to play a game of croquet. I did not play. Papa played with Ida, and they all beat Edna and May.
It wasn't long after dinner till time for us to start for the depot. Cousin Lee went with us to the train. The girls went to the train with us.
At 4:10 p.m. we are about ready to speed away to Missouri. We had to go in the smoking car from Hamilton to Keokuk and at Keokuk got in the train going to Wayland, and it was the nicest train we were on during our trip.
I was the first to see Wayland, and the first to get off the train. Lon, John and Herbert were at the depot. John and Herbert came to meet us, Herbert in the wagon and John in the carriage. Papa and Mamma and the children got in the carriage and Edna and I rode down in the wagon with the boys. They were driving mules, and the fun we did have.
Arriving at home we found things just as we had left them and Grandma Owens well. She kept house for us. This was the second time. We were all glad to be at home, although we couldn't have had a nicer time than we had in our month's visit in Ohio. But then, "There's no place like home sweet home."
— Mamie Frazee
Then we got on the wrong car and went to West Bluff instead of East Bluff. We came back, went home, and now are going to play a game of croquet. I did not play. Papa played with Ida, and they all beat Edna and May.
It wasn't long after dinner till time for us to start for the depot. Cousin Lee went with us to the train. The girls went to the train with us.
At 4:10 p.m. we are about ready to speed away to Missouri. We had to go in the smoking car from Hamilton to Keokuk and at Keokuk got in the train going to Wayland, and it was the nicest train we were on during our trip.
I was the first to see Wayland, and the first to get off the train. Lon, John and Herbert were at the depot. John and Herbert came to meet us, Herbert in the wagon and John in the carriage. Papa and Mamma and the children got in the carriage and Edna and I rode down in the wagon with the boys. They were driving mules, and the fun we did have.
Arriving at home we found things just as we had left them and Grandma Owens well. She kept house for us. This was the second time. We were all glad to be at home, although we couldn't have had a nicer time than we had in our month's visit in Ohio. But then, "There's no place like home sweet home."
— Mamie Frazee
Epilogue
by Rick Taylor (1999)
by Rick Taylor (1999)
Now for the conclusion of the story about the Frazee and Moore families. But first, how did the Frazees get to Missouri in the first place?
Lewis Frazee Sr. had an older brother, William Freeman Frazee, who went to Missouri in the 1830s and bought a large farm. Following the close of the Civil War, Lewis Frazee's son, Nathan, traveled to Missouri to visit his cousin Samuel, who lived next door to his father, William Freeman Frazee. When Nathan found out that they no longer wanted the farm, he made them an offer and they accepted.
In the meantime, Nathan met Nellie Reed, who was a sister of his Cousin Samuel's wife. They fell in love, and Nathan got a Missouri bride for his newly-purchased Missouri farm. Nathan died in 1918 and Nellie died in 1928.
One of their daughters, Mamie, who penned this diary, married Joseph M. Wood, and they had four children. They were June Wood, Lelia Cronyn, Mary Nell Hale and Prof. Joseph N. Wood. Their mother, Mamie, died in 1967 at age 90.
Mamie's brother Nathan (Natie) married Edna Eberheart, and they had four sons. They were James, Robert, Harry and Nathan. Nathan has a son and grandson, both named Nathan, living in Waverly, Iowa. Thus five generations have been named Nathan.
Even though the Frazee name continues to perpetuate out west, the Frazees have died out in Salt Creek Township in Ohio. Old Lewis Frazee lived to be 88, and he died in Nov, 1904. His wife, Mary Jane, had died in 1897. Lewis Senior's son Lewis Junior then got the farm and occupied it.
Lewis Jr. and his wife Hattie (Standford) raised two children, Goldie and Lewis Christian. Neither children ever married. Their parents died on the old Frazee farm, Lewis in 1938 and Hattie in 1942. Goldie died in 1946 and Lewis C. died in 1971 at 72.
The old Frazee house burned down after being burglarized in 1960. The whole farm has grown into a forest wilderness.
Now for the story about the adjoining Moore farm. It had once belonged to Nathan Frazee Sr. and then to Christian Neff. Then Lewis Frazee bought it back and in 1884 sold it to his son-in-law and daughter, Ai Barber C. and Catherine Moore. They raised five daughters and a son on this farm.
Ai Moore had a stroke in 1901 that left him partially paralyzed. He died in 1908 at age 69. His wife, Catherine lived to be 96. She died in 1943.
None of the five Moore sisters were were married, and they inherited and farmed the Moore farm their entire lives.
Anna Moore was the first to die in 1946. May died in 1959 and Ada died in 1968. The remaining two sisters then moved to Columbus where they died, Frances in 1970 and Rena in 1971.
Their one brother Lewis F. Moore, married Cleffie Jane Mansperger in 1902. They moved in with Lewis Frazee Sr. and took care of him until he died. Then they had to move out. They then moved into another house on the back of the Moore farm. In 1912, they bought a farm in Pleasant Valley in Perry Township.
They raised nine children there: Esther, Edna, Mildred, Mabel, Dallas, Delma, Marion, Glenn and Shirley.
Dean Stewart, the son of Esther Moore Stewart, bought the Moore sisters' farm in the early 1970s. He then bought the adjoining Lewis Frazee farm. Dean plans to restore the old Moore sister's brick house in the near future. And so ends the remarkable story of the Frazee and Moore farms and the 1895 diary of Mamie Frazee.
Lewis Frazee Sr. had an older brother, William Freeman Frazee, who went to Missouri in the 1830s and bought a large farm. Following the close of the Civil War, Lewis Frazee's son, Nathan, traveled to Missouri to visit his cousin Samuel, who lived next door to his father, William Freeman Frazee. When Nathan found out that they no longer wanted the farm, he made them an offer and they accepted.
In the meantime, Nathan met Nellie Reed, who was a sister of his Cousin Samuel's wife. They fell in love, and Nathan got a Missouri bride for his newly-purchased Missouri farm. Nathan died in 1918 and Nellie died in 1928.
One of their daughters, Mamie, who penned this diary, married Joseph M. Wood, and they had four children. They were June Wood, Lelia Cronyn, Mary Nell Hale and Prof. Joseph N. Wood. Their mother, Mamie, died in 1967 at age 90.
Mamie's brother Nathan (Natie) married Edna Eberheart, and they had four sons. They were James, Robert, Harry and Nathan. Nathan has a son and grandson, both named Nathan, living in Waverly, Iowa. Thus five generations have been named Nathan.
Even though the Frazee name continues to perpetuate out west, the Frazees have died out in Salt Creek Township in Ohio. Old Lewis Frazee lived to be 88, and he died in Nov, 1904. His wife, Mary Jane, had died in 1897. Lewis Senior's son Lewis Junior then got the farm and occupied it.
Lewis Jr. and his wife Hattie (Standford) raised two children, Goldie and Lewis Christian. Neither children ever married. Their parents died on the old Frazee farm, Lewis in 1938 and Hattie in 1942. Goldie died in 1946 and Lewis C. died in 1971 at 72.
The old Frazee house burned down after being burglarized in 1960. The whole farm has grown into a forest wilderness.
Now for the story about the adjoining Moore farm. It had once belonged to Nathan Frazee Sr. and then to Christian Neff. Then Lewis Frazee bought it back and in 1884 sold it to his son-in-law and daughter, Ai Barber C. and Catherine Moore. They raised five daughters and a son on this farm.
Ai Moore had a stroke in 1901 that left him partially paralyzed. He died in 1908 at age 69. His wife, Catherine lived to be 96. She died in 1943.
None of the five Moore sisters were were married, and they inherited and farmed the Moore farm their entire lives.
Anna Moore was the first to die in 1946. May died in 1959 and Ada died in 1968. The remaining two sisters then moved to Columbus where they died, Frances in 1970 and Rena in 1971.
Their one brother Lewis F. Moore, married Cleffie Jane Mansperger in 1902. They moved in with Lewis Frazee Sr. and took care of him until he died. Then they had to move out. They then moved into another house on the back of the Moore farm. In 1912, they bought a farm in Pleasant Valley in Perry Township.
They raised nine children there: Esther, Edna, Mildred, Mabel, Dallas, Delma, Marion, Glenn and Shirley.
Dean Stewart, the son of Esther Moore Stewart, bought the Moore sisters' farm in the early 1970s. He then bought the adjoining Lewis Frazee farm. Dean plans to restore the old Moore sister's brick house in the near future. And so ends the remarkable story of the Frazee and Moore farms and the 1895 diary of Mamie Frazee.
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