Nixon Journal II, part D, May 2, 1884 - October 31, 1884
William Thomas Nixon (b. 20 Nov 1846, d. 15 August 1915) was a prominent minister, lawyer, and court official in Lawrenceburg, Tennessee in the late nineteenth century. In 1868, at the age of twenty-two, he married English immigrant Elizabeth G. Parkes. The following year, he was elected as the re...
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Journals, scrapbooks, and diaries Nixon Journal II, part D, May 2, 1884 - October 31, 1884 William Thomas Nixon |
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Journals, scrapbooks, and diaries Lawrence County (Tenn.) ; Personal narratives |
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William Thomas Nixon (b. 20 Nov 1846, d. 15 August 1915) was a prominent minister, lawyer, and court official in Lawrenceburg, Tennessee in the late nineteenth century. In 1868, at the age of twenty-two, he married English immigrant Elizabeth G. Parkes. The following year, he was elected as the representative for his district in the Tennessee State Legislature, where he served until the end of the 1870 term. That same year, he was admitted to the bar in his native Lawrence County. In 1871, he was appointed clerk and master of the chancery court of Lawrence County, a position he held for several decades. Nixon was educated at Cumberland University in Lebanon, Tennessee, where he received a degree preparing him for the ministry in 1875. He was ordained by the Cumberland Presbyterian Church on South Military Street in Lawrenceburg, where he served as the minister for a number of years. He and his father, Colonel George H. Nixon, were instrumental in bringing the first railroad to Lawrenceburg in 1883. In October 1884, Nixon co-founded the Lawrence Democrat, which survives today as the Democrat-Union, Lawrence County’s oldest continuously-operated newspaper. An avid writer, Nixon kept a regular chronicle of his day-to-day life, of which two volumes are known to have survived. The Nixon Journals are accounts of his daily activities between 1879 and 1885. He records his business transactions, news and gossip from the town, as well as major events from his family. As a minister, his journals also contain careful records of the sermons he preached, the funerals he conducted, and the marriages he officiated. The original journals are the property of the Lawrence County Public Library in Lawrenceburg, Tennessee. In 2010, the Lawrence County Public Library partnered with the Digital Archive Department of the Florence-Lauderdale Public Library in Florence, Alabama to digitally scan and transcribe the journals. The project was completed on Nixon’s 166th birthday, 20 November 2012. |
| title |
Nixon Journal II, part D, May 2, 1884 - October 31, 1884 |
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Nixon Journal II, part D, May 2, 1884 - October 31, 1884 |
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William Thomas Nixon |
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William Thomas Nixon |
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https://cdm15947.contentdm.oclc.org/digital/collection/journals/id/815 |
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http://cdm15947.contentdm.oclc.org/utils/getthumbnail/collection/journals/id/815 |
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1705472865686519808 |
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Nixon Journal II, part D, May 2, 1884 - October 31, 1884Lawrence County (Tenn.) ;
Personal narratives William Thomas Nixon (b. 20 Nov 1846, d. 15 August 1915) was a prominent minister, lawyer, and court official in Lawrenceburg, Tennessee in the late nineteenth century. In 1868, at the age of twenty-two, he married English immigrant Elizabeth G. Parkes. The following year, he was elected as the representative for his district in the Tennessee State Legislature, where he served until the end of the 1870 term. That same year, he was admitted to the bar in his native Lawrence County. In 1871, he was appointed clerk and master of the chancery court of Lawrence County, a position he held for several decades. Nixon was educated at Cumberland University in Lebanon, Tennessee, where he received a degree preparing him for the ministry in 1875. He was ordained by the Cumberland Presbyterian Church on South Military Street in Lawrenceburg, where he served as the minister for a number of years. He and his father, Colonel George H. Nixon, were instrumental in bringing the first railroad to Lawrenceburg in 1883. In October 1884, Nixon co-founded the Lawrence Democrat, which survives today as the Democrat-Union, Lawrence County’s oldest continuously-operated newspaper. An avid writer, Nixon kept a regular chronicle of his day-to-day life, of which two volumes are known to have survived. The Nixon Journals are accounts of his daily activities between 1879 and 1885. He records his business transactions, news and gossip from the town, as well as major events from his family. As a minister, his journals also contain careful records of the sermons he preached, the funerals he conducted, and the marriages he officiated. The original journals are the property of the Lawrence County Public Library in Lawrenceburg, Tennessee. In 2010, the Lawrence County Public Library partnered with the Digital Archive Department of the Florence-Lauderdale Public Library in Florence, Alabama to digitally scan and transcribe the journals. The project was completed on Nixon’s 166th birthday, 20 November 2012. William Thomas NixonFLPLLawrence County Public LibraryMay 2, 1884 - October 31, 1884Image/text pdfNixonIImerge4.pdfPaper DocumentEnglishPart of the Lawrence County Public Library collection; Part of the Florence-Lauderdale Public Library collection Contact the Florence-Lauderdale Public Library for permission to use.143
Friday May 2. 1884.
It rained last night and as the ground was
too wet I did no gardening as I intended. I
wanted to plant squash and cucumber, but it
will do next week. However I employed my-self
in the office. Took 2 Depositions, Buchanan’s
and Smiths in the Martha S. Williams idiot case.
Did some bench work and copied a Bill, making
in all $3.25. The day has been warm but
over-cast. M.J. Richardson is having a front
veranda built to his store house. Spenc’s[sic] new
house is progressing fast and promises to be
quite nice and convenient. Had a settlement
Celia with Celia Widmer last night and found after
making a correction of one corset at 75¢
that I owed her up to May 1st $ .
Wind S.E. warm, Ther. 68.
Saturday May 3. 1884.
Was employed in the office on deposition
of Tidwell until 4 oclock[sic]. Came home
and planted some cucumber and nutmeg
melons. Rec’d $18.15 from J. Clayton on his first
land note which paid it in full.
Knight Knight is chargeable with $2.25 in mdse
at Guinns & Stewarts.
Father in town and had me to write
some letters for him – to Eastwood & J. Leach.
Weather as fine as one could wish, but too
much rain. Wind S.E. and cloudy. Ther. 70˚
1st Sab. in May. 4th Day 1884.
Attended our S.S. this morning – went thro'
the usual lesson, which, by the way I had pre-pared
somewhat better than usual, and as we
got out so late I went on home instead of
to church. Found Lizzie sick and spent the
entire afternoon with her. It rained in
the evening and also at night fall.
144
Monday May 5th 1884.
Attended in the office all day, with
the usual round of duties. Made out
a report in Ford vs Ford.
Paid on Simms McDougal’s a/c 6.00
leaving bal. due him of $4.15.
Got a Bu. of Irish potatoes from the Con-vent
for fixing watch
Ground too wet to work in garden. Wife
still sick, but not bad. She has Just
taken some calomel. A blind musician
gives an entertainment in Court house to-night.
Bass Sowell and I walked over to
R. R. trestle this evening.
Wind S.E., colder somewhat, cloudy. Ther. 60˚.
Tuesday May 6. 1884
Wife has been sick all day with something
like a bilious attack. I attended at office
until 11 o’clock and there came home and
remained all the evening. I went into
sanitary measures around my premises
and cleaned up the cess-pool by Kitchen door
and also by our porch and wheeled off
the filth in the back garden. I put up a
sink and pipe for Kitchen refuse and slops
and provided a bucket for slops from our
rooms, and now one more thing and I
think we will be clean – Yes two more,
one is to clean out and cement the cellar
and clean out from under our houses.
These I must attend to when I can
get the time. The wind has been from
the West all day and rather cool.
I hope my wife will soon
be over her sickness as nothing dis-tresses
me more than to see her
suffer in any way.
145
Wednesday May 7. 1884.
I have been hard at work all day. I had
Frank Wolz to help me and we commenced by
filling in the cess-pool, which I excavated yester-day,
with debris from old brick-kiln. We then
cut potatoes and planted 5 rows in East lot.
put the balance and pea nuts except a small
square north of old brick-kiln where we put
in 16 rows more potatoes. I used about 2 gals.
of acid phosphate sowed broad cast on this
and some on the five rows first planted.
After this throwed[sic] up 4 rows for sweet potatoes
pulled the slips watered and set them out. I
threw up the ridges and also ran around the
4 rows of early corn. and also irish potatoes
in north garden. Every thing looks flourishing
and unless an untimely frost do nip my
“vegetables” think I will make a fair “crop”.
The wind has been in the West
and cool all day. Cloudy tonight and still
cold, though I do not think it cold enough
to frost even if clear.
Paid Frank this evening 50¢. He also
got some sweet potatoe[sic] slips but do not
know how many. He will count them and
tell me.
Thursday May 8. 1884
Last night after I had made up my entry
Geo Mester Sr. came over and borrowed $5.00
He goes to Nashville to bring his unfortunate
daughter home.
I have spent the day forenoon at the
office and after noon in garden. Put out 2
more rows sweet potatoe[sic] slips. The wind
still continues N.W. and cool. Attended a
meeting of Bd of Drtr’s tonight. Nothing
of importance transpiring.
146
FRIDAY MAY 9. 1884.
We did some more gardening today. Planted
double row m. fat peas and main crop of
squash and cucumber. I put in 9 hills of
watermelon in brick yard hole. Plowed over
irish potatoes in vegetable garden and put
out 1½ rows tomatoes and 2 more rows
of E. Cabbage. With it all I am fairly
“done over”. I forgot to say we hived a
swarm of bees. I “whirled in” and made
a hive in a Jiffy and Knight put them
in. The wind has been from N.W. all
day but warm enough. Weather clear
with Thermom 68˚.
Mrs Bentley paid me the $5.00 borrowed
money this evening.
Over to see Spence’s new house this
evening which is going along rapidly.
Saturday May 10. 1884.
Had Frank with me until noon. We
planted corn in back-garden and 3 rows
of peas. This took us until quite noon,
although there were but a few rows, but it
had all to be manured[sic] and covered with a
hoe. In the afternoon I got shaved and
went over to R.R. cut, and rested up.
Moved books & papers up stairs ready for Chan. Ct.
2nd Sab in May 11. 1884.
Attended S.S. this morning and preached at
11 from 1 Cor. XV 34 to 58 vs. Staid[sic] home all
the evening and rested. Preached 7 Oclock[sic]
from 1 Cor XV. 58. Home and to bed. Tucker
L. Bentley died this morning at day break.
He died of heart disease. He was Cir. Ct Clk.
147
Monday May 12. 1884.
Our Chancery Court met this morning and gave
me plenty of work to do. Had Mr. A.L. Robertson
to dinner with me. He paid me some money
in McDonnold vs Chisholm & wife. I allowed
1/6 th of the $100. pd Hughes as atty fee and 1/6th
of $147.00 the wild lands money in Wayne
Co. and he then paid me $189.00 cash taking
up his note.
Tucker Bentley was buried today
in cemetery. Quite a crowd out. The day has
been quite warm.
Tuesday May 13. 1884.
Have been busy in Court room all day. This
is about all the entry necessary.
Mrs Fath I gave Lena 5$ gold piece to pay her mother
This pays all but 35¢ of her a/c.
S.A. Carrell Jr. is still insisting on the unfair
ungenerous proposition of me paying him
$100.00 on Coon Creek place. He slipped in
and got an unfair and dishonest hold
on the land and proposes to blackmail
me. I want to make an entry of it
here to perpetuate the matter. No honest
man at heart would propose what he does.
Wednesday May 14. 1884
Am busy these days all the time in Chancery
Garret Court. I paid J.W. Garrett on Cooper G. & Co a/c
this evening $10.00 I must look into this
a/c. I have been paying & paying until I
must see into it. Henry & Stewart in from
Columbia. It turned quite cold in the
night last night and has been so all
day, though not cold enough for frost.
The wind has been in the North all day
Thermom. 60˚. Wind N. Quite cool.
148
Thursday May 15th 1884.
Still busy in the Court; however had some
spare time this evening and Mr. Meek and
I walked over to rail road cut and examined
the work.
Uncle Wm. Busby in town and took dinner
with us. Mother in from home, took dinner
with Bro Henry and stays all night with
us.
F. Wolz Frank Wolz came over this evening and
I paid him $2.00 on his past labor.
Knight Knight bought a new bed-stead from Mr.
Collis for $2.75 which is charged in his a/c.
Paid McKey $104.17 in McDonnol vs Chis-holm
& wife in court, and $20.00 on his fees
as former shff. in Carrell vs Miller. Bal
$4.00 due him.
Promised to loan Mr Spence $40.00 tomorrow
to pay his tin bill.
We all walked over to depot tonight to see
the train come in and had a ride on the
coach while they were switching.
The wind still continues from the North
and the weather cool.
Geo. C. Taylor came in on train from Columbia
Friday May 16. 1884.
Our Court adjourned this morning until
Friday next. Geo Taylor came in and want-ed
me to pay in to Co. Ct the $57.00 due from
me in case of Gilmore vs Trautman. I
Geo C. Taylor saw Gilmore and he said there was no
20.00 order to pay out and that if I paid in he
certainly would hold it until an order was
entered. Taylor said he had advanced his
client who was entitled to the fund $20.00
I proposed to pay him this am’t if he
would agree that I should deduct it
from the amt I was to pay into Court.
149
which he agreed to and signed a receipt which
stated this fact on Ex Dock.
W.C. Spence I loaned Mr Spence $40.00 and took as
$40.00 collateral a $75.00 note on R.W. West with
P.G. Austin as security. He says he will
return it in a few days.
He got this to pay his [??] Bill on new house.
Knight Knight got a new mattress at McDougal and
Collis’ $4.75 chg’d in his a/c.
The day has been somewhat warmer. I was
up to depot again tonight. Jones, the agent came
in with his new wife. The boys rang the bells
and the train blew lively.
#
Saturday May 17. 1884.
I have spent the day in resting up. Since the
adjournment of court my eyes have hurt me and
so I did nothing but walk around today and
attend to minor duties. Lena went home last
night and didn’t return as she was sick and
has been all day. Something like a bilious attack.
The Methodist 2 days meeting commences
this evening with service at church. George has
sick-head ache.
Sunday May 18. 1884
As usual attended our S.S. this morning, but
my class was small. Went to Meth. Church
and heard a sermon from Farris. Spent the
evening at home and heard the Northern
Methodist presiding elder at night – Bro
McNeal. Am somewhat tired and
sleepy. The day has been pleasant
and cool.
150
Monday May 19. 1884.
I haven’t done much today, as I
did not feel like any exertion.
Father and Minnie came in on the
train from Nashville. Went down
to church and Rev. J.H. Strayhorne preach.
Revs W.H. Hughes & J.M. Jordan came
on train and Joined in the meeting.
Bro. Farris proposes to protract it.
I sold $2.00 of the mutilated coin
put in the [court??] by M.M. Powell in
Foppe case to Hindman the Jeweler
for $1.60. The day has been cool
and windy. The railroad embank-ment
was finished across Pulaski
Street this evening.
Tuesday May 20. 1884.
I helped Capt Deavenport survey the lot of
Cannon Mrs. Bentley’s known as the Marsh lot
W.C. P. note Bro William pd me Drft on G. P. & Co Nashville
$20.38 which goes as a credit of Cannon note
of this date. I mailed this Drft to Jno D. Flautt
Cashier Giles Nat. Bk. this eve to close a/c. I
must look into the matter of my a/c at
that bank. Attended service today and again
tonight. Rev. W. H. Hughes preached this A.M.
and Rev. J.M. Jordan tonight.
The day has been somewhat
warmer than usual and the sky overcast
and it looks like we might have rain
Father and Minnie got in from Nashville
last night after I had made up my entry
for yesterday. There were 3 penitents at
the altar tonight.
Work on R.R. crossing is going
on finely and they will finish up this week
I think.
151
Wednesday May 21. 1884.
The pay train came down this morning at
10 O’clock. I had a talk with Dr Harvey in
regard to moving the old house below Henry’s
lot. He said he had given it to Buchanan
if he B. would tear it down and move it away.
I see he has commenced it this evening. Bro.
Henry went up on pay train this a.m.
Jo. Hovelmeyer paid up the cash in case of
himself vs his children. Capt. Deavenport
informs me that W.A. Stewart will file a Bill
against Henry attacking the conveyance to
Laura. Henry is in a crisis. He is largely
in debt and I see no way of his paying
out. He has managed badly.
Thursday May 22. 1884.
Attended in office nearly all day and but
one business transaction of any importance.
I paid Jno Schade $4.00 on my individual a/c
and $6.00 Leamon’s cash in Connor vs Chaffin
to be paid to Jno S. Jr. We are needing rain
very much indeed, and it has some indica-tions
of giving us some soon. P.G. Austin Jno.
Austin & Henry Kirksey built the old house which
Buchanan had torn down. It was built about
35 years ago. Out protracted meeting closed last night.
Friday May 23. 1884.
Chancery Court met this morning and ad-
Journed about 10 o’clock until August 11.
I moved my books and papers down stairs
and employed the evening in indexing and
getting off a memorandum of business to
be attended to.
Went over R.R. cut and saw
them use dynamite in blasting rocks. The
work will be finished inside 2 weeks
Our babe Leonard grows finely every day.
152
Saturday May 24. 1884.
Outside of some business transactions
in the office not much to record. The
weather threatens rain which is needed
very badly. Frank Wolz and I had a
running up of a/cs this evening and I
find a mistake which I must call his
attention to.
4th Sabbath in May. 25th. 1884.
I heard my S.S. class this A. M. on the
lesson of “Liberal giving”. After the lesson
I preached from Ecclesiastes IX v 28. I
then came home to my dinner of straw
berries and other good things for all of
which I was thankful I trust. After
tea went up to Bro Wm’s. and walked
through the garden which is fine.
We had a good rain this evening but
we need more.
A train load of darkies went up to
Mt Pleasant to Baptist Association
Monday May 26. 1884.
I put in nearly the entire day in my
two gardens. I made up sweet potatoe[sic]
ridges, set out 2 rows, ploughed out the
corn and worked around among the veg-etables
generally. I planted a row of pole
beans and stuck those already growing.
The ground was in fine tilth and
worked well. I sent Mrs Bentley 130
sweet potatoe[sic] slips and with what I
set out it cleaned up the entire bed.
The garden doesn’t look as well as it
usually does but well enough considering
the bad and backward spring.
Father Henry & Wes in from Columbia tonight
Henry brot[sic] my Bank Book and Wes Gamble’s Rec’t.
153
Tuesday May 27. 1884.
Lizzie and I got up at 4 this morning and
took the train for Columbia where we have
spent the entire day dining at Guest House.
We left the house with Celia and children.
with instructions to make the best of things
for the proposed birthday entertainment for
Joe Rogers – his 18th birthday. We are now
Just in and find they have managed remark-ably
well. Ice cream frozen, cakes baked
and every thing in tip top order. The guests
are Belle Hagan, Rose Stribling, Gertie Thomas,
Mildred Harvey, Chancey Spaulding, Joe Kennedy
Tom Parkes, Joe Rogers, Ferd. Bentley.
Our Bill of Expenses at Columbia were as follows
Mdse at Frierson & Mays 14.20
1 Pr. Gloes[sic] 1.25
1 Parasol. 4.00 1 Dress 2.50 6.50
1 Hat 60. 1 Bbl Flour 6.50 7.10
Bus fare 1.00 Hotel .70 1.70
$30.75
Wednesday May 28. 1884
Spent the day in watch fixing and tracing
land titles. Bro Henry has sold all his lands
to W.J. Whitthorne & Co. I put in my iron ore
bank, (1/2 int) bo’t of D.L. Kelley, at $500.00.
Mary goes to Nashville tomorrow morning
with Aunt Minnie. Gave her for expenses $20.00
J.T. Craik down this evening looking up
R.R. matters. The weather has turned quite
cool with wind from the North. My garden
looks very bad and scarcely anything is
growing.
T.D.D. I paid T.D. Deavenport $3.00 this evening towards
$10.00 I am to pay him for Dr Herbert in the
Couch land matter.
154
Thursday May 29. 1884.
F. Wolz I had Frank Wolz to tear down and com-mence
to re-build the lane fence on the West
side. He got all the posts set and will finish
tomorrow. I paid him on what I owe
him. $2.00
Leaving bal. due him, not including
today’s work. $2.90
He owes me 1 Days work for sweet potatoe[sic]
slips.
Lena asks for an advance in wages to the
am’t of $1.00 making 3.50 pr. mo. which
Lena we do not feel able to meet and will, on
the 12th try to do without her.
I paid her on wages this eve $6.00
Minnie and Mary came in this eve from
Nashville where they went this morning
starting at 5:30. Mary laid her in a
lot of nice things. Her Bill was $20.00
The weather continues remarkably cool
with the wind from N.W. almost cold enough
for frost.
Wife and I went up to see Mrs McClain
the Dr. and Miss Alice this evening. Mrs
McC is quite low. We walked around the
premises, saw the chickens and new hen
house. They are fixed quite convenient.
Friday May 30. 1884.
Carrell Jr. and I compromised the Coon
Creek land matter today, by me giving
him my note on due bill for $100.00 and
he making J.B. Foster a quit claim deed.
The amt I agreed to pay him is “blood
money” such as I do not want. He
is a man without a conscience.
F. Wolz Frank finished up new fence this eve-ning.
I do not like it, but hope
it may last some time as it has been
155
very expensive. W.P. Ingram returned me
Henry’s ck for 60$ unpaid. I do not know
what to do about it.
Saturday May 31. 1884.
The month gone! Another one added to the roll
of those gone of 1884! This makes five of them.
Time flies! The older we get the swifter seems
its flight. I haven’t much to record. Capt
Deavenport with his boy Tom and I with
my boy George went fishing about 11 O’clk
and returned near 6 P.M. which, with
getting ready nearly consumed the day.
We tramped to Parkes pond around by the
Hope factory and home. I was the new
planing mill of Parker & Harvey for the
first time this evening. It is situated at
the ford of the creek below Tom Dunn’s.
First Sab. in June, First day 1884.
The usual round is the record for today. I
went to our S.S., heard my class and then
home. Our usual order was interrupted by
a committee from Methodist school proposing
a pic-nic.[sic] We appointed a similar committee
on the part of our school It is proposed to go up
the R.R.
Old man Stanford Clayton preached at the
Methodist Church but I didn’t go to hear him.
Dr. E. McClain called this evening and spent
the entire evening with us which is something
unusual for him. He also called on Prof.
Barnes. The weather threatens rain.
Calf Eddie Parkes drove up our cow “Beauty”
this evening with a nice calf. We are
all as proud as punch and Leonard too.
He is the milk drinker on this place.
156
Monday June 2. 1884.
Quite a crowd in town this morning
as first Mondays usually bring them.
Uncle Wm. Busby here also. A convention
was held in Court house – Democratic,
so-called – N.M. Hollis chairman. Del-egates
were appointed to Nashville in-structed
for Bate for Gov. A pretty mess
politics are in in the state. Men who
do not Know what Democracy is are
running the party.
Mother, Cousin Augie and Min went
up to Columbia this morning, and a
nice fix they are in, as a dispatch came
in this evening that a wreck had oc-curred
on the road somewhere near
Sandy Hook and it is not likely they
will get in before tomorrow. Wes Briley
recd orders to fire up and run with
his engine to the wreck. I was up when
he started.
We had a slight sprinkle this evening
and a prospect for more at this writing
Our cow “Beauty” and calf seem to be
doing finely.
Paid Dr. Neal Bal of of his Judgt against
C.G. Stewart’s estate in am’t $42.75 I
paid H.B. Sowell $20.00 of it before. Dr.
Neal promises to refund if it is nec-essary.
as he brings up a question that
will change the present prorata.
157
Tuesday June 3rd. 1884.
Worked in the office all day until about 4
P.M. when I came up and had Knight help
me set out 4 rows of cabbage plants. We had
some rain last night and some today but not
enough to thoroughly wet the ground.
Mother and Min got in with Cousin Wes from
Columbia this morning at 3 a.m. and as it
was raining they remained at depot in the
coach until morning. Mrs Carrell was with
them. Mother’s “lark” didn’t pan out much.
Nothing new in the town.
Wednesday June 4. 1884
I am proud to state the fact that we have had
a fine rain last night and today. It came
Just right – slowly and gently. Not much
to record as not much is doing now. I
passed the day in my office attending to
various duties. A.J. Hays came up from W.
Springs and brought his wifes[sic] rec’t for $90.00
bal. due her on her interest in Johnson lands
$40.00 had been previously paid to her. Henry
went to Columbia this a.m.
I put out some of Costar’s Rat exterminator
tonight in my cellar. My garden looks well.
Weather cloudy wind S.E. Ther. 69˚.
Thursday June 5. 1884.
More rain! It rains every half hour
without any trouble. I rec’d a letter from
G.E. White containing $10.00 the am’t I agreed
to accept on the divorce matter of Mrs Mary
F. Pennington.
I set out 75 or 100 lat[sic] cabbage
plants. Not much doing in the town.
Hindman is going to leave for Ills. I
have traded for his lathe and crystals.
158
Friday June 6. 1884.
More rain today, in fact we had the
hardest shower that has yet fallen.
W.C. Spence moved into his new house
today, although not finished. I have
attended in office all day but nothing
of any importance transacted
News comes of the nomination by the
Republican convention in session at
Chicago of Jas G. Blaine for the presidency.
Wind S.E. and warm. Ther. 70. The
garden looks well. I have a splendid
prospect for irish potatoes.
Saturday June 7th. 1884.
I made a trade with W.L. Hindman,
the Jeweler, this evening. I took his
lathe and glasses for $15.85. I assumed
to pay W.A.G. J.M. Gilmore Co. Ct Clk
7.00 and paid Hindman cash $8.85
He goes to Ills. he tells me.
Paid Geo Goedeker on a/c 2.50
The rain has ceased and the weather
is fine and growing. The weeds grow
too, faster it seems than do the veget-ables.
Lizzie and I walked over
to R.R. Trestle after tea this evening.
2nd. Sab. in June 8th day 1884
I preached this morning at 11 after S.S.
from Phil.1.27. Home and staid[sic] the
entire evening. No service at night on
a/c of rain. Dr. & Mrs. Harvey gave me
$10.00 this morning, I suppose for my
services in preaching. May the Lord take
notice of the kind feeling and act. I
wish them long life and peace.
159
Monday June 9. 1884.
F Wolz I had Frank to commence sawing palings
for front fence today. He sawed until about
3 oclock[sic] when a rain came up and stopped
O Richter him. Richter delivered the posts for front
fence this morning. I did not count them
but will. I will also get the Bill of
lumber for palings.
Miss Louise presents her Bill for Mary’s
music to date $20.35. Must get it up
as she goes away soon.
I took about 40 lbs of honey out of my
blue stand this evening. It was fine and
Leonard had his share.
We had another heavy rain this evening
coming down in great sluices.
They are finishing up the road bed from the
depot to the cut this side the creek. They
will commence track-lay maybe next
week. My garden grows finely.
Bro Wm got home last Saturday night
from Nashville
Tuesday June 10. 1884.
If I hadn’t promised myself to make a daily
record I wouldn’t write anything tonight. The
day has been devoid of interest. The day has
been “stale, flat and unprofitable”. The wind
and clouds have been from the North and cold
all day – drizzly and uncomfortable. Some
little office business. Wrote to Will Shannon to
come up and settle his divorce costs $19.65
Tommie Harmon came in last night on train
and took supper with us. He stays a few days
I reckon Tom is still O.K. The weeds grow
and no mistake. Bro Jim Kinney, Kate
and Miss Belle Kinney came in on the train
tonight and went out home. They will
stay until Monday next.
160
WEDNESDAY, June 11th. 1884
J. B. Stacey C. & M. at Pulaski made sale of
the Chairs corner lot in town today to
E.McClain & W.H. Dustin at $811.00.
The Glen Mills tract to Chairs at 750.00
Sold well I think.
Nothing done in the office worth the
mentioning. Our babe was sick last
night and neither Lizzie nor myself
slept much. He is better today.
Our school examination commenced
today. I did not go over.
More rain and drizzly weather.
They will finish R.R. by Saturday
G.T. Hughes in town.
Thursday June 12. 1884.
Wm Blue I paid Wm Blue in full of a/c $5.00
This squares all matters between us.
Spent the day in my office, but not
much done. The laying of track goes
on and will cross Gaines Alley tomorrow.
White, the old contractor on Buffalo cut
is track foreman. Craik came down
this evening and went south. Some
more rain today.
Paid old man Boulier $1.50 in full of a/c.
Friday June 13. 1884.
Spent the entire day at home working
in garden, plowing out potatoes & “goobers”
F. Wolz Frank Wolz worked for me today and
I paid him cash $1.00
Miss Louise I paid Miss Louise $10.00 for Mary’s
music. Her music school is out.
She had a rehearsal at academy
this eve. Lizzie went.
161
Saturday June 14. 1884.
Frank Wolz put in until 4.15 on front fence.
F. Wolz I paid him cash 50¢. I also employed Sam
Beckham for the evening at 40¢ pd him.
They crossed Pulaski street with R.R. track
today. Lizzie and children went out to Mothers
this evening. Some more rain.
Mrs Moore, our school teacher, called on
me this evening. She is going away and
wants her pay. I referred her to Mr Dustin
our Treas.
Sunday June 15. 1884
It has rained nearly all day and I have
staid[sic] in doors. No S.S. and no church service.
Bro Jim and Kate in to see us in the evening.
Monday June 16. 1884.
George got off to Culleoka this morning with his
Aunt Kate. He was “full up” with his antici-pations.
Jonas Springer was married in
town today to a Miss Belew.
I married a couple at Mester’s hotel today at
12 Oclock[sic] – Mr John Murray to Miss Maude
McAdams, both of Lewisburg I think.
I gave S.A. Carrell Jr. an order on Mr.
Spence today for $40.00 which goes as a
credit on my note of $100.00 to him “blood
money”, Shylock money, pound of flesh
money on Coon Creek land matter.
Frank Wolz and Sam. Beckham worked
on my front fence all day. I hung the
gate. Sister Laura was blessed with a
new son today at 11 oclock[sic]. Bro Henry
was absent but got in tonight at train
time. Capt Craig of Waynesboro came
over from hotel and spent a pleasant
hour with us.
162
Tuesday. June 17. /84.
Frank Wolz finished up new front fence
by noon today. I helped some. I like
it and hope it may last as long as
the old one. The old one was put up
in 1871 and in taking up the old posts
I find on the bottoms of some the saw
cuts.
I put out this evening 194 celery
plants and plowed out the corn in
the North garden before dinner.
“Loafed” around home a good deal
this evening. The engine and a
train of flats loaded with cross ties
crossed Pulaski street for the first
time this morning.
[in pencil] 1884
1868
16
Wednesday, Thursday Friday and
to-day which is Saturday June 21/84.
Last night Father, Henry & Lizzie (Centreville)
Nixon got in on train. Father has a bad
carbuncle on back of his neck. Lizzie staid[sic]
all night with us.
Joe Rogers left this morning for home
in Alabama.
Yesterday I paid Edmondson & Hukills
a/c $8 63/100 in full. Will trade with them no
more. Don’t like their way of doing.
The last two or three days have been re-markably
warm.
Was busy today in my office taking
depositions.
Paid W.H. Dustin my balance on assess-ment
for school which was $15.00 $10.00
of which I had paid previously leaving
$5.00 and my 3 mos school Bill.
163
Monday June 23. 1884.
The day has been remarkably warm. The Thermom-eter
stood at 83˚ in the shade at 5 Oclock[sic] this eve.
I attended at the office during the morning
and spent the afternoon at Father’s. Wife and I
with children went out in the buggy. Father
is suffering agony with an immense carbuncle
on his neck. Noah, Florrie, children, Miss Belle
Kinney, Cousin Lizzie Nixon and all of us made
quite a party.
I paid Mrs Widmer $2.50 last Sunday
on butter and egg a/c.
Cousin Wes. went to Columbia this morning
and back at 3 on pay train.
Tuesday June 24. 1884
This is my Lizzie’s birthday. She is 36 today.
I have been in “partnership” with her now for
nearly 16 years and am yet entirely satisfied. She
is all the world to me. May the Almighty spare
us many more happy years. I wish her many
happy returns of the day. I wish I had some thing
nice to give her.
Have spent the day in the office but nothing
done worthy of record.
Hughes & Whitthorne with Geo Childress came
in on train tonight. P.& R. Wright in town all day
and here tonight. What connection their presence
and Whitthorne’s coming has will appear later.
164
Wednesday June 25. 1884.
Attended in office until 2 Oclock[sic] when
Henry & I went out home in a livery
buggy to see father. I dressed his car-buncle,
washed it and put on plaster
of Basilicon ointment
Capt Deavenport and I have arranged
for a fish tomorrow.
Sister Laura is quite sick. Was over to
see her this eve.
It threatens rain. Weather quite warm.
Thursday June 26. 1884.
Capt Deavenport, Noah Hancock and I
went to Eagle factory fishing today and
spent the entire day. We caught 12 trout
among us and got back by sun down.
We had a good day and would have had
finer sport but for scarcity of minnows.
Friday June 27. 1884.
Have spent the entire day in my
Bate office. I made Maj. Bate a deed for
lot No 248 in German Addition today.
There are some errors in the matter
of the sale which I must have corrected
at next term of the Court.
Weather warm and threatens rain.
Sam Beckham whiling away time
trying to white wash my front fence
Have, I think, arranged matters with
Bro Henry to meet over draft in Bank
of Columbia $80 and some cents - 27¢.
Father still improving – carbuncle
doing well.
Knight saved a swarm of bees today.
R.R. track laying progressing South of
town.
165
Saturday June 28. 1884.
Have been in office all day but not much
done. An unfortunate affair occurred between
myself & Bro. Henry today which I regret
exceedingly. It was about $60.00 that he had
borrowed from me. He abused me more
than I thought he could. I dislike exceedingly
to have a permanent rupture, but with H’s
temperament I think it best for me that
it be so. I shall have no further transactions
of any business nature with him. I wish
to put it down here that I employed no
harsh or ungentlemanly words to or with him.
I feel easy in my conscience about the whole
matter.
5th Sabbath in June 1884.
--29. day.—
Bro Wm. being sick at home I opened and
conducted S.S. Not many in attendance
Have spent the rest of the day at home
except a few moments over at Mrs Bentley’s.
We had a good rain yesterday evening
and some this morning.
Wesley finished his contract on Saturday
last and moved his traps up to town.
Monday June 30. 1884.
Spent the day in duties at the office
and in working some at the bench.
Cousin Wesley went to Columbia this
A.M. on R.R. matters. Made arrangements
with him to pay the Bal. due Bank of
Columbia $82.15. $70.00 of this amount
is what I have loaned Henry and for
which favor I received a cursing and all
manner of abuse that could possibly
be heaped on one much less a brother.
Day warm and threatening rain.
166
Tuesday July 1. 1884.
Have been busy all day taking
depositions.
Had Frank Wolz helping me ½ Day
hoeing out peanuts and sweet potatoes
Wife went visiting this morning and
afternoon. No telling where she has
been.
Lizzie Nixon, Miss Belle Kinney & Minnie
stay all night with us..
Weather warm and cloudy.
H. Nixon Paid W.J. Nixon $82.15. and of my
over-draft at Bk. of Columbia $70.00 of
this amt I pay for Henry Nixon.
Wednesday July 2. 1884.
I received a package of clock springs and one
watch chain ordered, the latter, for Dr White
at Eagle Mills, from Lodwick & Nolting Cin. O.
Exp. C.O.D. & chges 5.55.
Nothing doing in the office and not much
any where[sic] else. We had two fine rains this
evening. Had Knight to run over pea-nuts with
harrow and then turn on them with bull tongue
which will put them in good condition
The garden looks finely and all the vegetables
are growing luxuriantly.
Minnie, Miss Belle and Lizzie Nixon went
out home this evening—they took dinner
with us and afterward went to factory.
The day has been remarkably warm and
the rain didn’t cool the air any great deal.
I sent off an order for some tools and things
needed in the Jewelry line to Kearney & Swart-child
Chicago Ills. this evening. Ordered
the goods sent C.O.D.
Rec’d a letter from Joe Rogers and sis Mattie.
167
4th. July 1884
Capt. Deavenport and I, feeling patriotic took
our rods and minnow buckets and put in the
entire day fishing between Parkes’ factory and
mouth of Coon Creek. Our success was quite
inferior as we caught but one fish during the
day and Capt caught it. We came in about
6 oclock and pretty well worn out but
feeling that we had done something for the
country in not boring an audience with a
speech. Capt D. is mighty good company. We
don’t talk much. I am not satisfied with
the success and mean to try it over on the
same ground.
July 5. 1884.
Had Frank Wolz to cut weeds in front yard
and flower garden and hoe cabbage. Had
Knight to plow out the part of peanuts
left over on account of the rain this week.
Also had them to hoe over the corn. For
myself have been busy working at Clocks
and watches all day.
We have just had a fine
rain (8 P.M.). My garden grows finely.
Miss Belle, Minnie & Lizzie came in for a
drive and are caught in the rain and stay
all night with us. No news in the town.
Saturday [“atur” struck through; “un” written above] July 6. 1884.
Attended S.S. this A.M. Heard Maj. Sykes
in a S.S. lecture at 3½ P.M. and spent the
remainder of day at home. Our babe
is fretful and half sick with diarrhea.
168 289
98 1/2 Monday July 7. 1884
387 1/2
Have been busy all day first with
one duty and then another. Office
work and other duties. Henry Nixon,
my brother, took occasion to curse and
abuse me in a shameful manner
again today. It is useless to write out
the circumstances. Suffice it to say it
was because I told a gentleman the
truth in regard to some lands H.N. was
proposing to sell him.
I heard Maj. Sykes lecture on
temperance at C.P. Church tonight.
We had some good music—violins
and organ. Our babe not much if
any better.
Some office transactions but
recorded at office. Miss Belle Kinney
with Coz Wes. for escort went home this
A.M. to Culleoka. Coz. W. will bring
George back with him.
Tuesday July 8. 1884.
Spent the day in the office. Paid
Mr Jno Cocke on old hauling a/c
the sum of $15.00 leaving Bal due
of $4 75.
George got in from his Aunt Kates
with Coz W. all safe and sound. He
was glad to get home. The day has
been somewhat cooler.
Mary & I went to depot to meet
George but the train was so far behind
time that we came home and waited
for him. An accident to train of
a small kind detained them on
the road.
169
Wednesday July 9. 1884.
We have had a fine rain this eve.
A car load of pic-nicers went up on
early train to enjoy (?) the day at Hudson’s
spring. Bro Jim Kinney came in this
evening and stays all night with us.
Rec’d the pkg ordered last week from Kear-ney
and Swartchild Jewelers Chicago
Paid Coz Wes. $3 00 the amt of expenses to
Culleok[sic] and for some other small things.
Father’s carbuncle improves slowly.
Have worked some on watches today
Had Dr McClain in to see our babe this
evening. The little fellow has fallen
off dreadfully. George has put in
the day “with the boys.”
Thursday July 10. 1884.
Quite a posse of witnesses were summoned
and in attendance in the case of Kidd vs
Crane and the day has been taken up in
taking depositions. Bond Esq. of Columbia was
here. Made some money at watch work.
Walked down this evening with Capt D.
and Dr. Harvey to look at the new planing
mill. The day has been rather warm. I
think I will go to Nashville this week or
early next.
170
15
Tuesday July 16. 1884.
I made no entry for Saturday and Sunday
and yesterday I went to Nashville and staid[sic]
all day getting in at 9:30. and tired. Today
I have attended in the office all day.
J.B. Bond of Columbia was here taking
depositions in Kidd vs Crane. We had
some rain today. I preached twice last
Sabbath.
Wednesday July 16 1884.
Paid Capt Deavenport $2500 of the
fund in case of Y.M. Hudson vs
Rankin, O.&Co. Took rec’t. Did some
office work and some bench work
Clock I ordered from Lodwick & Nolting at
Cin. Ohio a regulator clock to be shipped
by Express C.O.D.
Mrs Harrison (nee Lillie Bentley is
down on a visit from Nashville.
Tom Pks[sic] with Lizzie Nixon and Tom
Meredith with Minnie went fishing
today. You bet no fish was in danger.
Thursday July 17. 1884.
Nothing worth recording has occurred
in my history to-day. W.A. Edmiston
and I painted a sign for George Goedeker
today and I done some watch work
It has been quite hot all day. I have
rec’d 15¢ and paid out nothing.
171 171 171 171
171
Monday July 21. 1884.
For Saturday’s entry I should have said
that the School Co met and selected Prof
B.F. Davis of Sawdust Valley Maury Co. to
teach our school. I also should record that
I voted for Mr. Abernathy of Giles Co. thinking
him the better teacher, though I may be wrong
and hope I may be mistaken.
Clock I rec’d Saturday the clock ordered from the
firm of Lodwick & Nolting Cin. O. $14.20
Today I paid to Tom Meredith
W.C. Parkes $2500 on the order of J.E.R. Carpenter which
Note closes am’t due Carpenter. I paid this in
a ck or draft furnished me by Bro Wm.
to go as a credit on Cannon note assumed
by W.C. Parkes for house and lot.
I telegraphed Prof Davis this morning
that his proposition to teach our school
at $80.00 pr. mo had been accepted.
Tuesday July 22. 1884.
I have been somewhat busy in the office
during the day. Thos Dunn attached all the
goods belonging to Sam Brown today and had
them turned over to me and I advertised
them to sell on 2nd Aug. at public auction
Sam Brown is following a “strange woman”
and whiskey and left Thomas in the suds.
He is security for him to about $250.00.
R.R. A terrible accident happened on the
accident railroad today near Mt Pleasant in
which Jno. D’Lee the engineer was killed
Ed Stribling the fireman was unhurt. We
were all very sorry to hear of DeLee’s
sad death as he was a nice, kind hearted
man.
The nights are quite cool now and fine
for sleeping. I do some watch work
Drill along occasionally. I ordered a drill
from American Tool Co. Cleveland O. yesterday.
172
Friday July 25. 1884.
There has been very little to record since
Tuesday, as one day has been almost like
the one preceding. I have been in the office
all the time but no transactions worth
recording. Mr Hughes came in from Columbia
on Wednesday night—his little daughter
Emma Clare with him. I have collected
but little money and spent but little.
I ordered a Bbl cement from E.W. Gamble
at Columbia yesterday.
Our babe Leonard grows quite fast in length
but not much in “sizeness.” He can say
“dare ‘tis” quite plainly and is a little
tyrant. George stuck a nail in his
foot a day or so ago and has been
housed and limping ever since.
Father is able to be about again after a
long siege with his carbuncle.
Prof. Davis came in Wednesday and
helped make out school circular which
I mailed to Marshall & Bruce to have 500
copies printed. Prof Davis had the misfortune
to lose his horse on the trip.
Saturday July 26. 1884.
We had Tommie Parkes, D.E. Rose & cousin
Wes. to tea with us — ice cream and cake.
Lizzie Nixon & Minnie with us. They seem’d
to enjoy it all around.
F. Wolz Not much doing in the town. Pd F. Wolz $150
Sunday July 27. 1884
Bro Hurlburt preached for our congrega-tion
today — a real good sermon. He took
dinner with us. I staid[sic] at home all the
evening. It rained about night
173
Monday July 28. 1884.
I got 2 loads of Brick from Mester today
1 4.80 1.320. I had Mr. Merediths team
hauling all day. [??] hauled the bricks
2 loads of sand and a Bbl cement from
depot. I am fixing up my cellar. I
had Tobe Grimes col'd helping: pd him .60¢.
Paid Mr. Meredith $1.00
Made 75¢ at bench work. Sam Brown
has returned full of futile wrath. He
had better take things coolly. No news
in the town.
Tuesday July 29. 1884.
Frank Wolz worked for me all day. He put
brick floor in cellar and cemented it all over
about an inch thick which I think renders
it rat proof. He also walled up open space
around the steps. Paid him cash $1.00
Paid Exp. Co. $7.60 on Drill from Am. Tool Co.
Cleveland Ohio and 30¢ frt on Bbl cement
from Columbia. Paid Jim Beckham 40¢
for Bu. lime. Have been busy with all
this nearly all day. Rev. A.M. Gillespie
from Savannah in town this eve.
Wednesday July 30. 1884.
Attended in the office all day and did
some work at home in fixing shelves
in the cellar, and this is about all the
days doings. We have had copious
and frequent rains these latter days
and the crops of corn are growing finely.
The wind has prevailed to a considerable
extent and has done some damage to
the corn. My garden looks quite well
and furnishes us all we can consume.
Our babe grows and is quite healthy.
174
Thursday July 31. 1884.
This morning a messenger came up
from the 3rd district with the news that
Col. A.T. Dobbins was dead. The messenger
stated that he died the night of the 30th.
or Wednesday. I was not up when he
came ― Mr. David Powell. As I had promised
Col. D. some years ago that I would preach
his funeral, and so to fulfil[sic] my promise
I saddled Old Nell and started. Quite a
storm of wind and rain came up on the
road when 8 miles from town, but we
stopped at Rias Wilburns until the worst
was over and arrived at Col. D’s late res-idence
at 2:30. I found an immense
concourse of people and the Masonic lodge
in session. I preached a sermon and
was followed by Bro. McConnel. He was
buried with Masonic honors. I started on
the return trip with Wilburn and Mr. Goad at
5:30 and made it home completely worn
out at 11:30. Found the storm had blown
down several trees in town and one of my
trees in front yard. This distance from
Lawrenceburg to Col Dobbins’ is all of
18 miles and a rough road to boot. I
was glad to get back but tired you
bet. Col. D. requested me to say in my
discourse, which I did, that in all his
life he had never taken a chew of tobacco
had never smoked a pipe, never drank
a drink of whiskey and had never sworn
an oath.
175
Saturday Aug 2. 1884.
Celia I paid Celia Widmer today $20.00 on wages
I ran up the a/c and if I was correct this leaves
about $175 due her. I must balance it up
and see whether I was right or not. I rec’d
my Express matter from Kearney at Chicago. Bill
$545 I have been quite busy all day
with the auction sale of Sam. Brown’s
goods. W.A. Edmiston was auctioneer. I paid
him $200 which I think was well earned.
The sale amounted to about $18860 I
remember this as the exact amount. I am
quite tired with the day’s work, and am
glad tomorrow is Sunday.
Sunday Aug 3. 1884.
Attended S.S., heard my class and then
heard Bro Farris on the doctrine of human
depravity. Quite a party came down on
the excursion train from Columbia and
Summertown. Spent the evening at
home only what time wife, Leonard
and I were at depot watching departure
of train; and it was hot too. We came
home in “a muck of sweat” and resolved
not to go any more hot evenings.
Monday Aug 4. 1884.
A large crowd in town and I have
busied myself nearly all day dis-tributing
school circulars and talking
school talk. The Bill poster for the
Circus was busy putting his show Bills
for the 11th and the gaping greenies
stood around watching. Lizzie Nixon
(Centreville) stays all night with us.
Noah Hancock and cousin Cynthia
came down yesterday eve and were
in town this morning.
176
Wednesday August 7 1884.
I made no entry yesterday because it seemed
to me nothing transpired worthy of recording
only that Bro. Jim Kinney came in and staid[sic]
all night with us.
This being election day every body[sic] is
full of that but outside of this nothing is
transpiring. The weather which has been
quite cool is turned somewhat warmer.
Bro Jim staid[sic] with us Monday night & last
night and went home this morning.
Cooper and Johnnie Meek in town. Also
Rev. A.M. Gillespie
Celia went out to her father’s last night
and staid[sic] until 3 oclock this morning.
Sunday Aug 10. 1884.
I made no entries on the days inter-vening
between today and Wednesday
last owing to the fact that I found
nothing worthy of record.
Signs in nature begin to warn us
that soon the time of the “sere and yel-low
leaf” will be here. How rapidly
time goes on! But a short while ago
and it was “rosy leafy” June. So runs
our lives away.
I preached this morning in our
Church from Gal. V & 24. Had a good
congregation and preached extempore.
The day has been quite pleasant
and enjoyable on account of it being
cool. Cousin Cynthia came in from
home and stays with us some.
The circus wagons of Stowes show
came in this evening ― as usual they
violated the Sabbath to get here from
Waynesboro, having exhibited there yes-terday.
177
Monday August 11. 1884.
Our chancery court met this morning and
commenced the transaction of business but
owing to the crowd and the excitement about the
circus, we adjourned until tomorrow morning.
Mrs. Bentley and Mary took their subscription
papers for the benefit of the two churches through
the town and secured a handsome subscription
They deserve a good deal of praise. They were
quite exhausted by noon but felt well re-paid
in having raised over $3500.
Bro Jno W. Howard took dinner with
us today. George, our boy, has put in the
day hugely. He has been eaten up with
excitement and has spent his money in
a hurry
Mary Lizzie kicked all her good fat in
the fire tonight by going to the circus tonight.
Work all day for the church and all
night for the devil. These things will
not mix. “Ye cannot serve two masters;
either ye will love the one and hate
the other or ye will hate the one and
love the other.” I wonder how she thinks
about it. I love my children and
would do any thing[sic] for them, but I am
in hopes they will look at things always
from a moral and Christian stand point[sic].
I don’t think any one[sic] serves God or the
right or purity by going to dances or
circuses or immoral shows.
Paid Wm [Tripp??] $1.20 for wood. Also spent
45¢ out of church fund. 1.65
178
August 14. 1884. Thursday.
I have been very busy with the ad-journed
term of our chancery court since
my entry on Monday.
Not much time for outside matters. I
J.W. Parker paid Chas Schade $1000 on J.W. Parker’s order
to me. This is charged on Parker’s a/c and
goes to my cr. on his lumber a/c against me.
Mary L. and Mrs Bentley got up their hands
and cleaned up the two churches today.
They say there were piles of dirt in each.
Made a wood contract with Wm Tripp
today for 20 cords wood delivered all corded
up for $150 pr. cord.
Bro Jim Kinney staid[sic] with us last night
and left on this morning’s train. He had
been below.
Saturday Aug. 16. 1884.
Prof. Barnes’ babe died of cholera infantum
last night about 3 o’clock and was buried in
our cemetery this evening at 5 o’clock. Dr. McC.
was there when it died. I was there up to near
12 oclock. I conducted the burial service. I
deeply sympathize with them.
Our chancery court adjourned on Thurs-day.
3rd Sab in Aug. 1884. 17th day.
I heard my class in S.S. and then went
to Methodist Church and tried to preach for
Bro Faries from 1 Cor. XIII & 10. I didn’t have
my matter arranged and digested and so
made a flat.
Our babe has been sick nearly all the
evening and have just given him some
medicine. Think it nothing very serious.
179
Monday Aug 18. 1884.
Circuit court day and the usual crowd
Expressed
in town. I mailed $107.00 to Alexander Spain
Guardian for his children Booneville Miss.
I received and delivered J.H. McKey’s new
watch today costing him $19.00. I have been
quite busy all day at watch work. W.H.
Hagan who has been down for some two years
with rheumatism was brought on his bed into
my office today. He will never recover. He
and Alex Carrell had some talk about a
settlement between them. Carrell said it was
private and he would not go to Dunn or Dustin
nor anywhere but Hagan’s house or somewhere
where they would be to themselves.
F Wolz Frank took the top off the old green house
and run up part of the wall for the cellar
preparatory to building a house over it.
I had Tom Meredith’s wagon to haul me 2
pieces of loads of sand today and one load
of bricks
Craik down from Columbia — Depot being
painted.
Thursday Aug 21. 1884.
One day has been just like another for the
last two days. Capt Jo. H. Fussell delivered
a temperance lecture in C.P. Church last night
and a good one too.
Frank Wolz worked on new wash house
today.
Democratic primaries for delegates to the
Congressional Convention in Franklin on
27.
Fannie Helton (formerly Beckham) died
this evening at 7 oclock. Child birth
fever.
The weather is quite hot. Cousin Cynthia
and little Annie stay all night with us.
180
Saturday Aug 23. 1884.
Not much doing these days. Frank Wolz
finished up the pillars for new wash
house. Dr Spottswood and daughter Anna
came in from Pulaski yesterday eve-ning
and will stay with us a few days.
Sunday Aug 24. 1884.
Attended S.S. as usual this morning
and preached in my church at 11 o’lck [sic]
from St John XII:26. Spent balance of
day at home.
Mrs Lockhart who has been with her
sister Mrs Bentley for about a month
left for home this evening. Weather
quite warm.
Monday Aug 25. 1884.
Convention to send delegates to Congressional
Convention at Franklin on hand.
Parker J.W. Parker and I went over our a/cs
this evening — I owe him about $1500
Schade Paid Schade on his a/c 5.00
leaving a balance due him of $2.25
Wm Tripp has hauled me 6 cords of wood
Tripp to date @ 1.50 amounts to 9.00
I paid him Cash this eve 500
Bal due him 4 00.
Paid JH. McKey some fees out of T Dunn
and Sam Brown fund amtng[sic] to 9.50
181
Tuesday Aug 26 1884.
Parker I paid Mr J.W. Parker’s order on me today
favor Mr. Richter through Peter Cocke $10.00
This goes to my credit on balance due to
Parker on lumber bills.
I received another watch makers tool today
a pivot lathe for which I paid $5.70.
It cost me a good price but I didn’t see
how I could get along without it.
Dr. and Anna S leave for home tomorrow
morning. The weather is quite warm.
Thursday Aug 28. 1884.
I ordered a gold pen from Lodwick & Nolting
Cin. O. for T.E.M Lean which came in today
and he expresses himself well pleased.
Jno Simms, Esq. Gilmore, Prof Davis and I
went over to school house this morning and
helped Ed. Wilson hang the bell on the roof
of the Academy. I did some work on watches
this morning and some engraving also
Mother sent for me at 3½ this eve to go out
and fix the pump which had gotten out of
order which I did after some hard and hot
work. We had some talk about unpleasant
family affair. The weather is exceedingly
warm and dry. Hindman thinks of leaving
in a few days maybe tomorrow.
Celia with a lot of young men & women
went out to her father’s today to enjoy a
picnic with ice cream and cake.
182
5th Sabbath in August 31st day
1884.
After our S.S this morning I preached
to a rather small congregation from
Rom. VI & 23. Our S.S. was augmented
today on account of the Methodist school
being with us. The storm on Friday night
last wrecked the Methodist church—made
a total demolish of it, so that it is dan-gerous
to go near it. The weather which
has been quite warm since Monday is
much cooler. Mrs Harmon, our new
music teacher came in last Thursday
night.
Monday Sept. 1. 1884.
The first business in order this morning
was to go over to the Academy with Messrs
Spence, Gilmore, Simms, Stewart J.C.& Parkes
I opened the term with a scripture lesson and
prayer and then a few remarks by myself
and Bro Wm. The school opens well.
J.P. Rogers Joe Rogers came in from home this A.M.
to attend school. He came over from Pu-laski
with Miss Mamie Deavenport in a
buggy.
Wash house John Fritch and Chas. Schade commenced
work on new wash house this morning
Our children commenced
school this morning.
183
Friday Sept 5. 1884.
Since Monday John & Charlie have worked
on wash house, and are getting along real
fast. Tripp has hauled some more wood
and I have paid him for the first 6 cords
all but 25¢
I rec’d today a $1000.00 S/d on Phila to be
paid to Nick Gunselmann for a/c P Peiter
sent me by Jno B. Luccock Kimbolton O.
I gave the Drft to Mr. G and took up Peiter’s
note due Aug 31.
Outside this not much done. Cousin Cynthia
staid[sic] all night with us Wednesday night
and little Annie last night, and She, Min
Mary & Cynthia all go up to Columbia in
the morning.
On Tuesday night last Mary sold her calf
to Mr Brown for $10.00 cash and she is
going to “Jaunt” it out.
The weather still continues dry and hot.
Had a talk with Prof Barnes this evening
He goes away soon — probably to Florida.
Music Mary took her first music lesson from her
new teacher, Mrs Harmon, this morning.
I mean Monday morning.
I was over and heard her play this morning
She is a brilliant performer.
I made a silver medal for the primaries
this evening
Hindman went to Columbia Wednesday
morning.
184
Monday Sept 8. 1884
Among the business transactions for the day
I may mention that Marion Riddle was
in to see me in regard to execution in the
Shff’s hands against him for $12.95 He
promises to pay when his cotton is gathered.
Prof Barnes Prof Barnes owes me $14.25 on rents for
which I drew an order on him in favor
of J.W. Garrett our school treasurer. This
is merely for collection as I owe the school
Co nothing. Prof B. will leave in a day
or two.
Mr Smith who lives on the Gunselmann
place buried an infant at grave yard[sic] to
day.
I with the assistance of Jno B. Simms, Mr.
Spence & J.M Gilmore put up the monument
over little Joe’s grave today.
Tripp I paid Wm Tripp .25¢ bal due him on
the first 6 cords of wood.
Wrote G.T. Hughes this evening saying
I would either send money or note on
Saturday.
Mary and Minnie came in from
Culleoka on this evening’s train.
They went up Saturday last.
Wednesday
Sept 10. 1884.
I paid Jasper Clifton on shingles $10.00
Bal. due him $800
Paid Jno Fritch on building new
wash house $10.00
Paid Wm Tripp on 6 cords wood @ 1.50
50¢ leaving bal. due him $8.50
Wife and Leonard went out home
and spent the day. I didn’t go out.
The weather still continues warm & dry.
185
Friday Sept 12. 1884.
I hired Jasper Neeley’s team today with his
son Charles for driver. The price is $2.00
The first thing we did was to haul a
load of rough ceiling to planing mill
and brought back 514 feet of flooring.
Planing This last I bought at the mill.
Mill Hauled gravel and rocks enough to make
a walk from back porch to new house
and a good job I count it
I paid Sam Beckham 50¢ on his work
yesterday. This I charge to John Fritch.
I owe him and Jim Helton, the first a
bal of 50¢ and the latter $1.00 all of which
is chgd to Jno Fritch as they helped to
cover new house.
Shingles I also got 3 bales shingles which I am
to pay Jasper Clifton for.
I have worked hard all day and am
tired.
Jim Burns boy died this evening.
Tuesday Sept. 16 1884
Had Tom Merediths wagon to haul my
ceiling from planing mill. Jno & Charlie
commenced on the ceiling after making
a sash yesterday for the cellar window.
The window sash came in from Columbia
yesterday. I haven’t got the Bill yet,
though they will cost me about $200
for the 3 windows.
I paid Jno. Fritch $1000 in gold on contract
for new house.
Tripp I paid Tripp $500 leaving a balance of
350 due him to date.
186
Wednesday Sept 17. 1884.
About all the entry necessary is
that Bate & Reid spoke in the C.H.
today. Lizzie and Mother went.
Wednesday Sept. 24. 1884.
I have made no entry in my journal
for a week because I have been out of
ink. Since my last writing several things
have been done which I will proceed to
record. Last Sabbath was our daughter
Mary’s 15th birthday which she spent
out at Mother’s with her aunt Minnie.
Monday I got ready for raising my back
porch floor and dining room, and having
procured a Jack screw Jno Fritch and Charles
Schade got to work on Tuesday and heaved
prized and wedged and finally got the whole
thing level. They then tore up the old porch
floor and put down the new one, finish-ing
up this eve. They finished the new
house last Saturday.
I had a settlement with Jno & Charlie this
evening and our a/cs stand thus:
According to contract I was to pay them for
building the new house $40.00
This amt I chge myself with $40.00
For the front porch 3.00
“ Celing[sic] 4 00
47.00
For 2 days work each on porch floor &c 6 00
53 00
Cr. by cash. 20.00
“ “ “ 8.00
“ “ Amt pd Helton & Bkm 2 00 30.00
“ “ Amt knocked off 23.00
1 00
Which leave bal. due them $22.00
at this date which I am to pay as
soon as I can.
187
I employed W.A Edmiston & Dan Hill to white
wash new house and half of old kitchen. Up
to yesterday (Tuesday) Edmiston had worked a
part say 2/3rds of the day and Hill finished
up the job today. I paid Hill cash in full $2.00
Today Revs M.A. Maxey & HG. King
took dinner with us, on their way to Presbytery.
Bro Maxey came in last night and stayed all
night at Collis House.
I need a letter from Tifton
the owner of the old Burdith field enclosing
$10.00 draft to pay Taxes.
Paid Jasper Clifton on shingles $1.00
Frank Wolz dug potatoes yesterday and
today. We are putting them in the new
house and finer potatoes I have never raised
FRIDAY, SEP. 26. 1884.
F. Wolz Frank Wolz finished digging irish potatoes
this evening. Counting all, the good, bad
and indifferent I have about 30 Bushels.
I have housed them in new house.
Mrs Bentley commenced the erection of
her barn this evening. I got a few rocks
from her the other day which were worth
something to me and I must pay her for
them. The new porch floor is O.K.
The town seems alive on the new newspaper
question and will send for press &c Monday.
No rain of any consequence yet.
Min in town and took dinner with us.
Cassiday & Jones returned from Louisville.
Mester plastering his new dining room.
188
Saturday Sept. 27. 1884.
Was busy in office nearly all day at first
one duty and then another.
Cousin Wesley came in from Nashville
tonight. Mrs. E.L. Saxon, the organizer of
temperance unions, came in on same train.
She lectures tomorrow evening in C.P. Church.
Sabbath Day Sept. 28. 1884.
I preached this morning after S.S. from
St Mark VII & 34.
Mrs Saxon lectured to a good audience at
3 P.M. She is a “talker.” She also lectured
at night. Both good lectures. Minnie took
dinner with us. No rain yet.
Monday Sept 29. 1884
Have been very busy in office all day.
Col Stribling left for Athens to see about
our printing press this A.M.
Visited school room this morning and saw
how things were moving.
Wednesday Oct 1. 1884.
Col. J.L. Stribling got back from Athens last
night. He bought the old outfit of the Athens
[Post.??] and brought it with him — $280.00. We
rented the Harvey store room on south side of
square and moved the office in there. We
telegraphed tonight for Mr Field to come from
Athens to set up and print the paper. We
have all been busy today arranging mat-ters
connected with the paper. The company
named the paper the “Lawrence Democrat.”
Richter Mrs. Bently paid me $500 on the 700 feet
of lumber gotten from Richter @ 80¢ $560
leaving balance of 60¢. She wants some
more planks for her barn.
If it doesn’t rain soon everything will
189
be burned up. I worked in the office all day
and at the bench some.
Wm Brooks, C&M. at Lexington and wife came
in on the train from Louisville tonight. They go
out home and stay a day or so.
First Sab. in Oct. 5th day 1884.
Our S.S. was not as well attended this morning
as usual. Ed D. Patterson from Savannah gave
us a neat little address. Ed took dinner with
us yesterday. He is a candidate for the state senate
and will speak here tomorrow.
Rev P.A. Sowell presiding elder for this district
preached a good sermon at 11 A.M. on conscience
and Bro. Duncan from Clifton circuit preached
at night. I read a burial service at the grave
of Jim Heltons babe this evening at 3 o’clock. His
wife died some few weeks ago.
Monday Oct 6. 1884.
The day has been pretty well taken up
in running the newspaper and hearing the
speaking. Warren Smith came in last night
and spoke in the Court house today as did Ed.
Patterson. Ed. was too much for him with his
“pamphlet.” I think Ed. will prove more than
a match for him in debate.
Saturday Oct 11. 1884.
Since Monday Mrs. Harmon, our music
teacher has resigned and gone home — left us
in the suds. On Thursday She gave a musicale
at our house and on Friday night a concert closing
her school at Mr. Dustin’s residence.
On Thursday last we got out the first issue
of the “Lawrence Democrat” and considering all
the circumstances a very creditable one too. To
do this, however both Col. Stribling and myself
had to do any amount of drudgery and hard work
190
I have been so busy about getting out the
paper that I have hardly had time for
anything else.
Cousin Wes. was sick with chill and had
the doctor to see him last night.
Celia I paid Celia $10.00 this evening which left
$3.00 due her at the first of the month so her
a/c says. I haven’t cast up so as to see whether
she is right or not.
Judge H H Harrison and S.F. Wilson spoke to day
in the Court house.
We had a shower last evening the first of
any consequence since July 21.
Bro Wm. went to Nashville Monday and returned
Friday.
Cousin Willie and Bettie Brooks left for home
on Thursday evening.
Tuesday Oct 21. 1884.
The ink has been out of pocket for some time
and so no entries have been made.
Boulier-Corn I had Tom Meredith’s team today and sent it
out to Simonton place rented by Boulier this
year and had one load of rent corn hauled in:
I looked at it and thought it about 2½ Bbls—
hardly 3.
Clifton I paid Jasper Clifton $325 on shingles today, leaving
a bal due him of $3.75 as I owed him $7.00
New House I rented the new house to the Holts, watchmen
at depot by the month for $850 pr. mo.
No rain of any consequence yet.
191
Wednesday Oct 22. 1884
Worked down at office all day at first one
thing and then another.
Fritch I paid Jno Fritch on balance due him and
Chas Schade for work on house $10.00
I paid Gus Stewart for two days work for
me on corporation streets $1.50
He is to work two more days for me.
The weather changed last night and it was
raining this morning and at 6. tonight it
is clear and cold enough to frost.
Sam Busby Samuel Busby commenced boarding with
us last Monday. He is attending school
I am to board him at $7.50 pr. mo.
O. Richter Frank Wolz got from O. Richter lumber to
the amt of $14.17
which goes as a credit on Richter’s note to me
Wolz and Mester for his residence lot.
Frank and I had a settlement this morning
and Frank owed me $430 which he paid
me in cash. I afterwards sold him $3.00
worth lumber, leaving him due me $2.30
Thursday Oct. 23. 1884.
Worked in the office on a/cs today and also
in getting out the paper—the newspaper.
Gus Stewart worked for me on corporation
work. I owe him for it .75¢
Last night we had a heavy frost and
it has been cold all day, and will give
us another tonight
Celia has a beau tonight — Mr Smith.
192
Saturday Oct. 25th ’84
Not much outside of routine work done
during the day.
Boulier I rec’d another load of corn from the land
up Military road about 3 Bbls.
hauled by Mr Boulier. I sold him my
two calves this evening for $400 each
Tripp $800 Paid Wm. Tripp all I owe him
on wood by a balance of $3.20
to date.
Paid Gus Stewart on road working for
corporation $100 owe him 50¢.
Knight Knight is to be charged with Box of pills
25¢
We had another severe frost last night.
Quite a party went to Louisville last night
Oct 31, Friday. 1884.
New House The Holts moved into new house on
Thursday of last week. Mrs Barnes
still occupies the house with them. Well
this ends the fall months. Now for winter!
Have been busy at office all day.
Joe went home today driving old Nell to
one of Tom Meredith’s road wagons.
Knight hilled up celery. Some sweet potatoes
dug and housed.
Weather fine. Borrowed 50¢ from Sam Busby.
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