To Nebraska in '57 - Pages 69-89



Page 69

   Closed my bargain with Dick Darling this morning and passed papers we 
are making preparations to go out in the morning to live on it five days 
and then prove up and preempt. Expect a happy time among the musketoes 

   Answered letters this afternoon and in the evening went up to Mr 
Tuttles and had a chatt with him. It is now bed time and I will retire. 
Tomorrow night expect to sleep out at the farm. Good Night

           At the Generals ten o'clock at night 
July 29th 1857

E. F. Beadle

 

   Rock Brook Farm Six Miles

   West of Omaha July 31, 1857.

   On the Big Pappio Creek and Nin-na-bak In township 15 range 12 East 
section 28. North half of South East quarter, and East half of South West 
quarter.

   Two o'clock P. M. Our cabin being finished, preliminarries aranged for 
an actual residence and having had a short nap after lunch I will commence 
to bring down my diary to date:

   July 30, 1857 -- Immediately after breakfast Set about collecting 
suplies for "the farm"  Borrowed a Sheet-iron cook stove of the deacon, an 
old coffee pot, plates, cups and saucers, knives and forks, pepper, salt, 
flour and a little butter of Mrs. Estabrook. Bought a fourteen pound 
chunck of dried beef 7 lbs. crackers, 4 loaves bread, 4 lbs. sugar one 
quarter tea and four pound nails. These we packed into a tea chest adding 
the contents of Mrs. E's cake box.  next we supplied ourselves with two 
blankets and two Buffalo robes, Hickory shirts, the poorest pair of pants 
we had, a revolver a bowe knife and fowling piece. stowed all into the 
lumber waggon of the Generals and with his man Jake for driver started via 
Saratoga  Thermometer at 100. At Saratoga we took in some dozen pine 
boards for roof to cabin and a glazed window sash, also two bottles 
Turners blackbury Brandy. For the information of my temperance friends I 
would state that this brandy is not intoxicating. Is used more as a 
cordial or for medicinal purposes.

   Leaving Saratoga we struck across the prarie intersecting the Elkhorn 
road some two miles from Omaha.  at the first Pappio we succeeded in 
crossing without unloading which we did not expect when we started. Two 
miles more across the prarie brought us to the big Pappio opposite the 
farm or claim. here Mr. Darling, who is to be my witness forded the stream 
and fell three trees across the creek all together, forming a fine 
crossing. In a half hours time we had our lumber packed across and landed 
on the South side of the Pappio together with our supplies  Our Man Jake 
returned with his team, Darling and myself commenced packing our effects 
over to the cabin a distance of one fourth of a mile. Two packloads each 
and we sat down and took our dinner and supper together. After this we had 
five packloads each before our

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lumber was all on the ground. Now came the putting up of the shanty or 
Cabin the one previously erected by Darling never had a roof, and had 
consequently blown down. We worked like men to get up our cabin as the 
muttering Thunder and heavy black clouds at the south and west threatened 
a storm, which would make a shelter comfortable. It was sundown however 
before the roof was on our cabin. This being completed we crossed the 
little brook to where some German people had been making hay on my claim 
and took the liberty of taking what we could carry this we aranged in one 
corner of the cabin and sprad thereon our robes and blankets and 
straightened ourselves out to sleep two as tired men as ever saw the sun 
go down. To prevent sickness from drinking an excess of water we tried a 
little of the Blackbury juice 

   The storm continued threatning with tremendous thunder and vivid 
lightning. It passed arround to the south-west not more than a dozzen 
drops falling on our cabin

   During the night we had a constant Seranade So that we could not sleep. 
The numbers of the troop were countless. Their music was very romantic and 
extremely fine toned, but the multitude of the performers made the whole 
air vocal for miles around. At first we were delighted with such sweet 
music to sleep by, and all would have passed off pleasantly. Had not our 
Seranade troop become to affectionate, and were determined every one of 
them to salute us with a Kiss before they would allow us to go to sleep. 
We allowed a few to try it by way of experiment but they kissed so warmly 
the effect was painfull for a half hour after, and we determined to fight 
them off which could only be done by "smoking them out," and it was near 
daylight in the morning before we could sleep, at all.

   Friday 31 -- Our Serenaders left us about daylight and we improved the 
time until 8 o'clock in sleep when we got up so weak we could hardly 
stand. Put up our stove and made a fire  Cooked a little dried beef and 
made some tea in a large basin, our coffee pot we found leaked. Laid our 
window sash on the tea chest for a table and took a hearty breakfast our 
tea tasting fine. After breakfast walked over to see our German friends 
who were cutting our hay  Mowed a little for exercise The company making 
hay consisted of two men and one woman. the woman used the cythe just as 
well as the men.

   Leaving the hay makers I started of to find the limits of the farm. At 
the South East corner I was met by the German woman of the hay-field who 
came up to see that I was not going to claim a portion of her farm. I 
satisfied her all was right. She invited me to her cabin which was but a 
quarter of a mile South, her land joining mine. I went with her but 
declined going in. Went to the spring and got a drink and borrowing a 
spade started off to find other corners and mark them returned to my Cabin 
at noon took a bath in the creek, a lunch, a snoose and then commenced 
writing  While Dick Darling mowed some grass to enlarge our bed. dug out 
the spring and commenced ditching for a drain from the spring

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   During the afternoon the German woman came to our spring for water for 
the men making hay. she agreed to sell us some milk at night if we would 
come for it to the cabin 

   About four o'clock it commenced as it did yesterday afternoon clouding 
up and Thundering. The wind blew severely making our cabin tremble. It 
rained on all sides of us but not sufficient here to test the utility of 
our rooff which we fear will serve as a poor protection during a rain-
storm  At half past seven we concluded it would not rain here, so we took 
each a loaf of bread and spoon and started for our German neighbor when we 
each disposed of a quart of new milk, sitting out doors with a barrell 
head for a table. Coming home we saw some splendid sights in the way of 
lightning which performed such freaks as I never before saw.

   Saturdaay Aug. 1, 1857 -- Another night of torments from our Serenaders 
has just passed still we managed to get more sleep than the previous 
night, much to the gratification of our tormenters who covered the walls 
of our cabin when daylight came gorged with our best blood, giving the 
cabin the appearance of being ornimented with red beads

   Another trial as cook succeeded most admirably and we had a fine 
breakfast of dried beef with thickned gravy bread, crackers, cake and tea. 
dishes being washed Darling went to work on the ditch while I resumed my 
writing

   Three years ago this day Dick Darling first saw this claim at the time 
there was but one house in Omaha and much of the time for a few weeks he 
was the only white man this side of the Missourie river among the Indians 
then more pleanty than the white men are now. He came out here from Omaha, 
alone to see the country traveled all along the Pappio and fixed upon this 
spot as being the most desireable and lovely any where in this reagion and 
determined to be the possessor at some future day if in his power. On or 
about the 241h September following Darling and a companion came out and 
marked the limits of his claim including all the most valuable portion 
comprising near 600 acres. Since the government surveys were made, last 
summer, he has given 80 acres to one man sold 160 to another and 40 to a 
third in order to piece out each ones claim, he having more than he could 
hold  The original claim was made sufficiently large to be sure to 
comprise in one claim, when surveyed, all that most valuable portion. The 
claim I have purchased comprises three Eighties 240 acres  I can only pre-
empt 160 this however includes all the timber and rock the remaining 80 is 
bare prarie with the Min na bah running through it.  It is preempted on 
all sides and there is no danger of its being jumped. I shall hold it by 
claim club, improving that part, and as soon as the land comes in market 
cover it with an 80 acre land warrant  Thus securiug 240 acres for the 
best farm in Nebraska Territory

   Three years ago the Omaha's village was about six miles below here, and 
the Day Darling first came out here Aug 1, 1854 The Omaha's started on 
their annual Buffalo hunt, passed through this claim within three rods of 
where our cabin now stands. The party went in indian file and were a half 
day in passing each Indian had a poney heavily packed which he lead by a 
lorette or lasso. The

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path they made is visable today and can be followed. in the night. It is 
known as the Omaha Buffalo trail and can be followed into the heart of the 
Buffalo country. This trail of one summer will be visable for five years 
to come. Where they crossed the Alin na bah is a fine gravel foot path and 
is in the shade of some splended elms just the place for a summer house. I 
shall gather some curiosities from the spot. 

   This morning when we first got up we saw six large Swallow tailed 
Eagles sitting on the dead branches of a Black walnut tree. They were a 
beautifull sight. Were to shy to get a shot at with a fowling piece. If we 
had had a rifle we would have brought one down

   Darling having worked at ditching until he was satisfied for the time, 
gave me up my boots he was wearing and I devoted two hours to tracing the 
course of the Min-na-bah and transfering it to paper just as it passes 
through the farm. Found otters in great plenty along the Pappio and 
Minnabah  Should I be here in the fall or winter I could trap enough to 
rig my family out in fur of the costliest kind with little trouble

   The middle and latter part of the afternoon we whiled away in our cabin 
reading, laughing, jokeing, story telling and snoozing. Thundered a little 
toward night but was very distant and threatened no approch in our 
direction. About half past six we took our spoons and a loaf of bread and 
started over to the germans to take our supper of bread and milk. In our 
route we passed over the highest point on my claim if not the highest any 
where in the vicinity. The prospect was grand and sublime unlike anything 
I ever saw or my fancy ever imagined. In a north-west direction the eye 
could follow for twenty miles the course of the Pappio maked by the few 
trees that skirted its banks in every other direction as far as the eye 
could see was a wide expance of rolling prarie, unmolested by the hand of 
Man it lay in silent slumber just as it was left at the creation no signs 
of human life was visible. no looing herd was seen on the hills. no 
tinkling bell of the flock was herd as it wended its way to the foald. no 
tired husbandman sought his cottage on the prarie. no domestic fowl was 
heard to crook or cackle not even the robin or sparrow is known here, no 
sound save ones own breathing is heard. The same stillness characterises 
the morning, noon, and night, you rise with the first approach of light 
and listen until the sun has commenced his march in the heavens. No 
crowing cock saluts the morn, no rumbling wheels or baying watch dog is 
heard. the same continued deathlike stillness prevails as at the beginning 
of time. Who shall mark the change ten years hence in this garden of the 
world? Enough of this.

   Our German friends, (the only family in this reagion) had our milk 
ready, and we were soon on our return stoped at an old camping ground of 
the Omahas and gathered a few limbs to start our smudge to drive of the 
serenaders  Darling cut a lot of grass and soon had a thick smoke poaring 
up which drove off our tormenters. Enabling me to go to sleep while 
Darling kept up the smudge I had the best nights rest yet.

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   Sunday, 2 --Breakfast being disposed of and the dishes washed, I gave 
my boots over to Darling who went to work on his ditch while I continued 
my writing  An hour finished the ditch to Darling's spring a job done 
worth ten dollars to the spring. Being again in the possession of my boots 
I wandered in the Ninnabah exploring among the rocks and trees, found some 
curious stones and a wild turkeys quill. Gathered a lot of pipe clay took 
it to the cabin and manufactured a pipe in true indian fashion, and 
prepared some of the clay to take east with me. While Darling was making 
the ditch this morning I made a pencil sketch of the cabin which I enclose 
by way of illustration. I consider it a master production. 

   We had the promise of a visit from some of our friends in Omaha today, 
waited for them until three o'clock and thinking they would not come we 
started off for a tramp up to a Mr McCardles an Irishman living some two 
and a half miles up the Pappio.  followed the Indian trail to the place 
found the family enjoying themselves over their "Sod corn whiskey" the 
next day was to be election and the polls for this presinct was to be held 
at McCardles including McCardle his four sons, Dick Darling and myself it 
was supposed they woould poll 20 votes in some eight or ten townships. we 
decided to come up and vote. Returning to our cabin we found our friends 
had been there brought with them two bottles of porter which they had 
empted and made a good show on our provisions got out my pencil sketch 
wrote under it and posted it up in the cabin, took out my writing 
materials and wrote a letter calling upon us to "be at the polls the next 
day and look to the rural districts" "Vote for Hickneey" (one of the 
persons who came out) "and our names should be handed down to posterity"  
We regreted very much not seeing them. consoled ourselves by going over to 
the Germans and finishing the last of our bread in a bowl of milk. The 
German walked out on my farm to show me where there is a road to pass 
between us running in a direct line from Chicago, a little town west of us 
to Omaha  Advised with him where I should have some breaking done also 
arranged with him to look after my farm and keep the fire out of the 
timber. all of which he will do as he has cut $100 worth of hay on my 
farm. The land is much better for having the grass cut as it will not burn 
over in the fall or spring and will yield double the amount another year 
he says after all the bottom land has been mowed once I can cut 150 tons 
of hay every season. Bottom land is so scarse here bay is a cash article. 
After a long talk about farming generally &c we parted and I went to the 
cabin when Darling had a good Smudg, so I curled down and had a good 
nights sleep

   Monday 3 -- Got up an hour earlier than usual got the breakfast ready 
and ate it alone  Darling not wishing to get up after breakfast prepared 
our cabin to leave it for Election. Our German neighbor and his man came 
along about eight o'clock when we armed ourselves with our revolvers and 
bowie knives and taking the trail in Indian file started for the polls. 
The Judges of election had not arrived. we here first learned we were 
entitled to two Constables and two justices we accordingly nominated our 
German neighbor and Dick Darling at Constables and one of the McArdles and 
O. P. Ingles as justice.

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   Said Ingles is an old acquaintance of mine formerly in the shoe 
business in Buffalo. About half past nine the Judges arrived and one 
Notary Public to swear them in. Two McArdles and a McQuin were the Judges 
one of them could not write his name had to make his mark in signing his 
affidavit. The Notary Public and the old man McArdle were appointed clerks 
of Election one of this number had to have a deputy to write for him, and 
still he had to keep the poll list. The Ballot Box was an old sugar box 
imported from Omaha for the occasion. it was tied together with a string 
and a hole cut in the top with a table knife while the Judges were at 
breakfast. There was some 500 votes sent out and most of them different 
still it took about an hour to get the votes ready to suit the twenty 
voters. At last the voters were sent out doors and the breakfast table 
dishes and all was shoved up to the door and the polls declared open, and 
I had the great honor of casting the first vote that was ever cast in the 
pappillion district. I am the first man that ever voted in this presinct. 
I had many chances to immortalize my name all of which I respectfully 
declined 

   Having deposited our votes as every honest man who has the good of his 
country at heart should do Darling and myself started back to our claim 
taking with us a man whom I engaged to break up 20 acres of prarie to have 
it ready to put in my crops next spring. Returning I finished the course 
of the Pappio as it crosses my farm and sit down to close up my writing on 
the claim.

   Last evening when we went to the Germans to get our bread and milk we 
noticed they had company who had come three miles from the north west. one 
woman and a little girl about twelve years old I thought I had seen before 
and inquired where they were from and learned they were from the east some 
where and were of german decent. made no further inquiries after they left 
I learned the woman and little girl had been enquiring who I was and where 
I was from.  they of cours got no more information than I did. This 
morning The little girl came to the Election with Mr Ingles who proved to 
be her father. Mr Ingles said his wife told him she saw a man down on the 
prarie she had seen somewhere before. The mystery was now solved they used 
to live in Buffalo and the little girl took the Casket and she and her 
mother used to come to the office for it.  The little girls dress did not 
compair with other children on the prarie she looked like a rose among 
thistles  It seemes go where you will even on the wild praries of Nebraska 
you will find some one you have seen before

   It is now past one o'clock P. M. and I will put up my writing and stow 
away things ready to start for Omaha about ten tonight so as not to get in 
untill after midnight as I have to swear I have lived on my claim five 
days and nights and slept regularly there as well as cooked and eat and at 
this time it is my residence

   Instead of waiting until ten we left at four P. M. and passed around to 
the west to look at some other claims and arrived in Omaha between eight 
and nine at night much to my surprise I only found two letters and both 
those

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were unimport one from Mr De Puy and Mr Hall. Did not sleep well this 
night. 

   Tuesday 4. -- Got up early waited at the land office untill 8 o'clock 
A. M. found my turn would come until tomorrow filed on the land and got an 
attourney to make out my papers. Rode up to Saratoga with Mr Tuttle and 
got my washing and put on a white shirt again. Walked to Omaha got the 
"Home" and "Casket" for August and two important letters one from Mr. 
Gridley in relation to Mr Turners buying the Niagara St property. The 
result of his confab with the Turners was not very satisfactory  Mr. G. 
will see them and write again soon  The Second letter was from E. S. Rich 
to whom I sold the notes I had from Wowzer he says all has now been paid 
excep one hundred a fifty dollars for that he holds Mr. Wowzers note 
endorsed by Mr. Steele. He Mr Rich thinks that we shall neither of us 
loose anything although all the parties who made the note I sold him have 
failed even to Miller, Orton and Mulligan

   Mr Gridley writes discouraging of prospects in Buffalo he says failures 
are of frequent occurrance, that prospects are much better in Omaha than 
in Buffalo. This fact I was before aware of particular to those who had 
capital to do with or to those in business. I have neither business or 
capital and I have about come to the conclusion that this is not the place 
for me this fall and winter more of this at another time

   After tea went up to Mr Tuttles and had a long conversation with him I 
am determined to bring certain matters to a focus and that at once. I make 
an occasional strike here but I cannot stand it to be so idle as I have 
been here. This fall and winter is a better time here for people with money

   Wednesday 5. -- Ten o'clock A. M  I have proved up and got my papers am 
now an owner of real estate in Nebraska Territory am the proprietor of 
Rock Brook Farm. Will now introduce a map of said farm made while on the 
premices and give a description of the same:--

[image caption: ROCK BROOK FARM]

   The Name --The name suggested itself when we first visited the place, a 
few weeks since. The scarcity of stone in the streams in this territory is 
so universal, that a stream filled, as in the eastern and middle states, 
with rock, attracts no little attention and becomes quite an object of 
curiosity. There are many Indian names familiar to the place, that might 
sound more poetical and pleasing to the ears of Eastern peaple, who have 
spent their days among the hills and rocks which characterize their 
peculiar locality. Such names however are not as attractive to us of the 
western praries, who are amidst the Indians and their relics, as the name 
which expresses that which is most rare in our midst, and calls to our 
retentive memories the seenes of our childhood which were spent by the 
"babling brook" 

   Rock Brook Farm, is a name peculiarly adapted to the place as it has a 
brook almost the entire length of which is filled with gravel and common 
rock,

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and brook stone, the like of which I think cannot be found within hundreds 
of miles of this farm 

   The amount pre-empted is only 160 acres and is comprised within the red 
and black lines on the Map. The 80 acres on the west and enclosed with 
black only is held only by claim but being pre-empted as it is on all 
sides I trust I shall find no difficulty in holding it until the land 
comes in market, as few persons can be found that are willing to loose 
their right of pre-emption for 80 acres unless it is very valuable. I have 
pre-empted all that portion which has timber and Rock, and the part I 
think has coal on the balance is naked prarie

   The Pappillon -- This stream which runs through the East end of the 
farm, heads many miles to the north-west and drains an extensive reagion 
of country. The valley or bottoms of this stream is from one to three 
miles wide and the richest portion of this Territory. The Papillon's. and 
Platt valleys are now considered the most valuable, and will very soon 
surpass the Mohawk valley and the valleys of the Wyoming. They are now 
mostly valuable for the grass they yield, which makes the best hay in the 
county about 60 or 80 acres of Rock Brook Farm is bottom land. Of the 
Pappillon's there is three the first or Little, 2d The Big, and 3d the 
west Pappillon ours is on the Big Pappillon a stream at this time fifteen 
to twenty feet across and four feet deep, this is its dryest time. During 
heavy rain storms in the upper country it has been known to rise 17 feet 
in three hours the banks to that depth are very steep. In the the bottoms 
sometimes overflow.

   The name Pappillon is French and Indian means butterfly. It is called 
mostly Pappio and will probably be known only in english as Pappio.

   The Nin na bah  Is very noted among the Indians it is an Indian name 
signifying singing water, or babling watter. From time immemorial the 
indians have camped on this stream It makes about half mile above my 
southwest corner is composed of springs. In an ordinary time there is 
sufficient watter to carry one run of mill stones. there is a good mill 
site on it I think. It drains many thousand acres and in a rain storm gets 
up to ten feet in depth and as much in width. The stone and rock seemed to 
have been depostid by some volcanic action the stone is at least half Iron 
when broken resembles cast Iron more than it does stone

   Black Walnut Grove -- This grove is in a gorge formed by a ravine 
coming down a bluff from the south it is filled and bounded on the east 
with huge sand stone rock and holders this grove was the favorite camping 
ground of the Omahas but not large enough for one fourth of a tribe to 
camp in. Every fall and spring the prarie fires make sad havoc among the 
timber which otherwise would increase rapidly. As it is there is 
sufficient for one family with carefull usage until more is grown. Timber 
fringes the Ninnabah for about a half mile but except this grove it is 
cottonwood and elm

   Turkey foot Rock  This is the largest rock in the grove and forms the 
base of a high bluff and the west boundry of the Ninnabah It is of immence 
size being some 40 feet along the stream and twenty foot high. How far it 
runs into the bluff it is impossible to ascertain. back of these rocks in 
the bluffs

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we believe there is coal if any where in this region. The rock is very 
soft composed of sand which is easily cut with any sharp instrument could 
be removed as rapidly as any clay bank is to soft for building purposes. 
It is carved with many devices by the Indians one of which resembles a 
Turkeys foot hence we give it the name of Turkey foot Rock 

   Pipe Clay Rock -- This rock is the same as the other on the south bank 
of the stream but not as large. At the base along the ninnabah is a 
peculiar kind of white clay from which the Indians mould pipes and dry 
them in the sun useing them without baking. In cutting off chuncks from 
these Rocks, near the base one finds balls of clay as large as a cocoe nut 
in the midst of the rock. This is considered best by the Indians  I think 
the clay valuable. For want of a better name we call this Pipe Clay Rock.

   Skelleton Rock --This rock is of the same formation as the others but 
smaller. the principal feature is the origin of the name we have given it. 
The spring following Aug 1. 1854 Darling went out to make further 
observations on his claim and visit parts he had not before seen. Crossing 
the Ninnabah in the bend and going upon the bluff that covered this rock 
he discovered a human skelliton streatched out at full length its arm 
across its chest every particle of flesh and clothing had disappeared and 
the bones were bleached white. The sight so shocked Darling that he 
instinctively grasped his rifle and placed his finger upon the trigger and 
looked around to see if any one was in sight.  He says had he seen a human 
being he is not sure but his first act would have been to fire upon him so 
strong and strange was his fear at the sight of the skelliton. After a 
little he went up to, and examined the skelliton. through the skull a 
bullet had passed, showing how he come to his death. It was the frame of a 
powerfull man. In removing the skull, the joints were so fastened by a 
glutenous substance, that he turned the body near half over before the 
bones seperated at the joints of the skull and neck. As soon as the skull 
was removed Darling passed his larette through the throat and eye hung it 
upon the pommel of his saddle and galloped into town. This incident has 
caused the name of skelliton Rock to be attached as it is.

   Darlings Spring -- This is named in memory of Dick Darling. he had 
always been so attached to this spring he could not refrain from Ditching 
it as he had previously planed even after it was sold. This he done while 
with me proving up and a hard job it was too

   Omaha Buffalo Trail -- The peculiarities of this curiosity is described 
in my diary under date of Aug. 111

   Having completed my description, I will take a walk and let it close 
the business of the day continuing as usual my diary

   Thursday, 6  Immedidely after breakfast went up to Mr Tuttles who had 
agreed to go out to my farm with me. We harnessed up and in company with 
his brother-in-law started, going by Saratoga we stoped and selected a 
location for the warehouse

   Reaching the claim house we found some one had broke in and stole two 
Buffalo Robes and our beef. We attributed it to the Pawne Indians. We

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wandered over most of the farm. Mr Tuttle and Zoller were both very much 
pleased with it. Seem to think as much of it as I do. We did not reach 
Omaha on our return until four in the afternoon. Brought back all my 
effects from the cabin and sold the cabin on the ground for twelve dollars 
to one of the McArdles who wishes also to preempt 

   About bed time I learned there was to be a danse on the Steamer "Ben 
Bolt" which had come down this day from Sioux City. Hoping to see Miss 
Clark I went down but they were so long in getting to dancing I did not 
stop. Only had a glimse of Miss C.

   Friday, 7 -- Was awoke this morning by Jake coming into my room and 
handing me a letter Mr Cook gave him. It proved to be a bill of lading of 
my things which had come during the night on the Steamer Omaha. Hurried on 
my clothes and went down to the levee where I found all safe and sound to 
all appearances except through a crack I could see some pieces of 
lookinglass The steamer had gone up to Sioux City but left the bill for 
collection the whole amount of which was $64.45 a little cheaper than I 
had expected. The charges from St Louis here was only $1. per hundred 
while from Chicoga to St Louis it was $1.21 1/2 double what it ought to 
have been. Altogether however I am satisfied. I must now find a place to 
store them as it is uncertain when and where I shall want to use them. 
After breakfast went up to Saratoga and devoted the balance of the day to 
some improvements there

   Saturday. 8  Busied myself at Saratoga this forenoon afternoon settled 
my freight bill and done some figuring getting very uneasy and am bringing 
every thing on the square and am only awaiting a letter from Br Frank 
which I shall probably receive within a week, when I shall make some 
decided move. We have to day the Stainers "Hannabal" and "Minnehaha" in 
from St. Louis

   Sunday, 9 -- Another month has passed making five since I left home. 
long as the time has seemed from week to week I cannot realize I have been 
five months away  Why within that time there must be a preceptible 
difference or change in the growth of my children and if I should be still 
other five months before I see them I suppose they will outgrow my 
recollection It is not probable however that I shall be much longer from 
them at this time. If however it was deemed for the best I could remain 
from my family this fall and winter, but as matters have turned out here 
my stay in Omaha is very short for this time

   This has been one of the hotest days of the Season and all we have been 
able to do is to keep cool. This afternoon went up to Mr. Zollers where 
Mr. Tuttle boards spent a pleasant two hours and to dinner with them

   Monday 10  Last night there came up a rain storm accompanied with a 
hurricain which blew down a building I was interested in in Saratoga. The 
frame was only up and the damage will be easily repired  During the storm 
some of our neighbors who were living in temporary shanties became 
frightened, and for better safety came over to the generals and stoped 
until the fury of the storm had passed

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   The Steamer (I can't think its name) came in this morning and brought 
Cooks House-hold goods he not feeling very well I received them for him. 
Went up to Tuttles rode up to Saratoga with him. I stopped until the 
building (which by the way was intended for my private residence, which I 
have not before spoken of,) was raised again. Walked down to Omaha and got 
two letters one from wife and one from R. Adams. Answered wifes and maled 
all of Diary to Aug. 10th 2 o'clock P. M. 
E. F Beadle

   Tuesday, 11  After what I had written yesterday was mailed, I procured 
some nails and repaired the damages on my boxes of house hold goods and 
had them placed in the warehouse to be stored until further orders. In the 
evening helped Cook unpack his things found in one of the boxes the cain I 
brought to this place and on my return left by mistake at Cooks in Flint 
Mich. The steamer Edenburgh came in just at night

   This day I have devoted in part to writing letters to parties east and 
closing up my affairs here, this afternoon started with Mr Tuttle and his 
team to go over to the Bluffs. the wind so bothered the ferry that we 
abandoned the trip for to-day. We have a hot south wind blowing strongly.

   Wednesday 12 -- Went over to the Bluffs with Mr Tuttle spent the day 
without incident of interest, visiting the printing offices

   This night is the opening dance at the Central House Saratoga. Should 
like to be there but cannot as it comes my turn to take care of Dick 
Darling tonight he is here at the Generals sick with the billious fever 
came in from claim hunting last Saturday quite sick. On Sunday we got him 
down here. He is doing as well as can be expected has the best of care

   Thursday 13.  After breakfast walked up to Saratoga to close up my 
affairs there. Never saw Saratoga look so inticeing particularly the point 
where I have been building and sold out last week. Counted 56 buildings 
completed, and others in course of erection. There are many towns east 
that claim importance that have no more buildings than Saratoga at this 
time from the Central House I rode down in the Omnabus, by the bluff route 
or the route where the best buildings are along the edge of the bluff. I 
could hardly realize the change that had taken place directly under my own 
eyes. When I came here in the spring there was but two houses on the site. 
Now there was almost a city graded streets veheacles of all kinds and two 
lines of Omnibuses. The omnibus ride reminded me of the ride from Cold 
Springs to Buffalo except the beauty of the scenery which Buffalo cannot 
compare with

   This afternoon has been very hot  Cook and myself have been on the 
lookout for a boat as Lib is expected every boat. about the middle of the 
afternoon a severe thunder storm come up which has lasted untile evening 
about this time a boat made its appearance at the lower landing on the 
bluff side some six miles below here. It would not of course be up here 
until morning. Cook will probably watch it all night

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   Made arangements to retire early to make up for the lack of sleep last 
night. Got my coat off when Cook came down to get some milk said "they had 
come" Meaning his wife and children I waited for the milk and took it up 
found them all as natural as could be excep Lib was very thin and poor. 
Ella knew me and such a hugging and kissing as she gave me I have not head 
since I left Sophia I think Hatta recollects me but we did not get 
acquainted so as to talk much. I gave some milk undressed her and got her 
to sleep. Lib was tired out she was so anxious to get here after she 
started  She changed conveyance as often as I was obliged to when I cam. 
At Belleview twelve miles below by land but near thirty by the river she 
learned the boat would not reach Omaha that night and she could not think 
of being another night on the boat. So a conveyance was found by one of 
the passengers a Mr. Barkalow, a brother deacon in the same church with Mr 
Cook, and they rode up by land taking Cook very much by surprise when he 
was at supper at his boarding house. Cook having his house all in 
readiness they drove there at once bought some bread I took up milk and 
commenced house keeping the first meal. At about ten I returned to the 
Generals and went to bed 

   Four brick columns of the Capitol and the brick work which rested on 
them fell just at night. the cause I have not yet learned presume however 
the weight was to great for the columns. It will cost a Number of thousand 
dollars to repair the damage

   Friday, 14  Dark cloudy and lowry day  Helped Cook put up shelving and 
regulate  I seemes still more like home to see lib and the children here

   Received letters from Mr. Myers Irwin and my sister Sarah. In Sarah's 
letter which was written the 5th in which she says "Frank wrote me last 
Wednesday that Mate would start for O in ten days" Hear again I heare in a 
round-about way something which I should have understood fully if the 
letter Frank wrote me had not been miscarried. I was in hopes it would 
turn up yet. It is now so late it probably never will and tomorrow or 
Monday I shall probably receive another as it will then be time to get an 
answer from one I wrote complaining of delay which has annoyed me for near 
a month.

   Saturday 15 -- Weather same as yesterday  No mail from the East. 
Steamers "Watassa" "Hesperian" and "Alonzo Child" in this evening. The 
Alonzo Child was not expected until tomorrow (Sunday) night in that case 
she would not have left until Monday noon when Mr Tuttle and a number of 
others would would be ready to go, together with myself provided the 
letter I am expecting should arrive  As it is she will go down in the 
morning and we must await the next chance. The Alonzo Child is a superior 
boat and Makes good time

   About dark a thunder storm came up and it rained in torrents and when 
we went to bed the storm seemed at its height. But what is most unusual 
here during a thunder storm there is no wind the thunder and lightning 
makes up for that. The storm is becoming to terriffic for me to write and 
I will turn in and see if I can sleep.

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   Sunday Morning Aug 16, 1857  Such a terriffic night as has just passed 
I never in my life have experienced an hour after going to bed the storm 
seemed to doubled its violence. The rain did not seeme to come in drops 
but come down in a body so that the ground looked like a lake. roof siding 
and brick walls seemed to be of little use as the rain came in until it 
was near an inch in depth on the floor. The lightning was one continual 
blaze and the thunder come clapp after clapp seeming to roll across the 
roof of the house while it shook and trembled in every timber. Every 
instant I feared the house would tumble as I beleived the lightning was 
strikeing in every direction around us and the next we all feared would 
strike the house. The storm continued thus for about an hour when it 
subsided to a respectable thunder storm such as we have east. the sesation 
was only to get a fresh start when it come on again and so it continued 
during the whole of last night and did not cease raining until after 
daylight.  I cannot conceive where all the watter could have been got that 
fell last night. The first effect of the lightning discovered this morning 
was on the Capitol one of the columns and the work it supported had been 
struck and leveled with earth. There is undoubtedly other serious injuries 
that we shall see when we go out around. We all thought our chances slim 
last night, but have come out right. Afternoon find no further damage from 
lightning walls of buildings have fallen and settled and cellars filled 
with water causing great destruction of property 

   Monday 17  No letters today except one from Cousin Jennie in Indiana. I 
have decided to wait no longer for the letter than until the first boat 
when I shall go letter or no letter  I can travail almost as cheap as I 
can remain here and I have now no business but to wait. Walked up to 
Saratoga this after noon. Another column of the Capitol fell today weather 
cool and pleasant

   Tuesday 18  Still no letter or boat and it is the hardest kind of work 
to wait when one is all ready to go. Yesterday and today people have been 
very busy in putting up lightning rods I think there has been a hundred 
put up since the last storm

   Wednesday 19.  Letters from wife and Frank today all satisfactory. Rode 
up to Saratoga and back with Mr. Tuttle in the forenoon  Afternoon wrote 
letters. No boat yet in sight we are at this time longer without a boat 
than we have been since the boats commenced running this season The time 
seems long and moves slow. One year ago this night I left Buffalo the 
first time to come Omaha.

   Thursday 20 -- Still no boat up today. The "Dan Converse" running 
between this point and Sioux City is down to-day and may go on to St. 
Louis in the moning she is a small cockkle-shell of a stern wheeler I 
shall however be tempted to take passage on her the fare will be no more 
and if the time is longer shall get more corn and bacon and bed-bugs and 
no extra charges.

   Friday 21. -- Nine o'clock this morning rode up with Mr Griffin three 
miles to his farm had a good supply of mellons. received directions to 
purchase and forward seeds and trees. After dinner walked back to Omaha. 
found no boats up. The "Dan Converse" however was just ready to leave 
would wait

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half hour hurried up to F. Gridley & Co's Bank and got a money package I 
was to take east dodged into Cooks, to say I was off and away I went 
Tuttle taking my things to the boat. In an hour after my mind was made up 
I was on board bag and baggage and at quarter after four' we shoved off 
into the "big Muddy" once more to try the uncertanty of this treacherous 
river. It was with feelings of deep regret that I saw the city fade in the 
distance. I have seldom been in a place I have formed such an attachment 
for as Omaha  The evening was delightful and we sped down with the current 
rapidly laying up for the night at a wood yard a mile below Plattsmouth on 
the Iowa side. Our supper was hard and did not tell well for the first 
meal. 

   Saturday 22 -- At daylight got under way and returned to Plattsmouth 
for passengers remained two hours went three miles and run upon a sand-bar 
where we remained until after 4 o'clock P. M. when the Packet "Watossa" 
running between St. Joseph and Omaha came along and was hailed to takon 
three of our number who were disposed to abandon the "Dan Converse"  We 
had all of us worked more or less to help get off the boat but seemingly 
to no effect  The captain of the Watossa came on board and from him we 
learned what we had previously began to fear that the chances were against 
our getting of at all as the boat had run into the wrong channel or what 
seamed to be the channel and passed over barrs which rubed hard with the 
current to assist the water had fallen and to get back seemed impossible  
add to this the Converse had her last stick of wood under the boilers and 
her miserable fare had almost starved us. As fast as the Watossa's small 
boat could carry them the passengers left the "Dan Converse" to the number 
of over forty leaving but about fifteen on board who I think will be 
obliged to abandon at last. The boat was poorly manned and only wanted to 
get to St. Louis to be delivered to her creditors. Some of the passengers 
on the Dan Convers had paid only to St Josephs, ten dollars, while others 
myself among the number had paid to St. Louis, Twenty dollars. Not one 
dime would the Captain refund. all plead and expostulated with him but to 
no effect  It was thought best however to leave and loose what we had 
paid. I was personally acquainted with the clerk and when he saw me 
leaving he called me into the office and on his own responsibility paid me 
back ten dollars with the injunctions of secrecy from the other passengers

   All that were disposed being aboard the Wotossa we left a cord of wood 
for the "Dan convers" and went on our way like a racer

   The contrast from the Dan Convers to the Watossa was like changing from 
life on the plains to the Astor or St. Nicholas N. Y. Although smaller 
than the Dan Convers the Watossa was a perfect palace, and the supper we 
got, which was ready as we went aboard, had an injurious effect on some of 
the passengers who pertook too freely trying to make up for their fasting 
on the Dam Converse

   The Watosa only running to St Joseph we could only pay to that point 
the price was the same as from Omaha, ten dollars making double fare. We 
made a fine run the balance of the day. At night we were many of us 
obliged to

Page 83

take a matrass on the floor but they were clean and without bugs while on 
the Dan Converse we found bed bugs on the table cloth at supper even 

   Sunday 23 -- Got an early start had a delightfull day being cloudy we 
could occupy the Hurricane deck and the ever changing views were charming. 
We laid up within thirty miles of st Joseph. This evening was introduced 
to Mrs. Bloomer of the Bloomer Costume who resides at Council Bluffs. is 
on her way to Seneca falls N. Y. on a visit had an interesting 
conversation of an hour when I took my mattress and straighend out on the 
Cabin floor

   Monday 24  The fog this morning prevented our getting under way until 
eight o'clock so that we did not reach St Josephs until eleven o'clock two 
hours too late for the packet three boats had left this morning had the 
fog not detained us we would have been in time to have made a good bargain 
as the three boats were in opposition

   The Captain of the Watossa who is a perfect gentleman, at a very little 
solicitation, took us to Weston sixty miles further where we found the 
Cataract of the Lightning line  This line runs boats daily between Weston 
and Jefferson City and connects with the R. R. to St Louis fare through 
$13. Some twenty of our number took passage on the Cataract when the 
Watossa decided to go ten miles further to Leavenworth City the balance 
continued on to Leavenworth. The Cataract is a mail boat and must leave 
Weston on time which is tomorrow afternoon half past three. We were Late 
on the Cataract but they got us up a supper after which I took a stroll up 
town. This is the place where the little girl was burried this spring on 
my upward trip. Retired to bead early

   Tuesday 25  Beleive this is wife's birthday. After Breakfast took my 
cane and note book to reconnoitre between Weston an Leavenworth City 
distance by land seven and half miles  Crossed the ferry at Weston into 
Kansas and had a Most delightful walk to Leavenworth City through a 
delightful region of country stoped at Fort Leavenworth on the route the 
soldiers were on parade it was a fine sight  Reached Leavenworth City 
about eleven A. M. rested a short time and then examined the town it is in 
my opinion one of the best points on the river and must be a great city 
unless their high prices kill it

   Here I learn the Watossa overtook one of the boats from from St. 
Joseph. The "D. A. January" who took the Watassas passengers but did not 
leave until about nine o'clock this morning so we shall be in St Louis 
probably a day a head of it as It runs through and we cut off 174 miles by 
R. R. It is now about half past three and it is probable the Catteract 
will be along soon. I have spent the last hour writing up my Diary, and to 
Cook in the office of the "Kansas Herald"

   At 5 o'clock the Cataract came along and I was again rushing down the 
Big Muddy at more than ordinary speed we made Kansas City and laid up for 
the night.

   Wednesday 26 -- A fine day. we made good time, 190 miles intended to 
reach Glasgow ten miles farther but at dark we run on a sand bar and was 
late before we got off. Had a thunder shower this evening

Page 84

   Thursday 27 -- Another fine day. Made Jifferson City in time for the 
train with half hour to spare. The cars left at two o'clock P. M. with a 
full load of passengers mostly like myself eager to join their families. 
If I ever enjoyed or fully realized a seat in the cars it was on this 
occassion  The sensation was very much like that felt in coming in sight 
of the old home one has not seene for years. But as he now beholds it in 
the distance he almost fancies he sees the smiling faces and grasps the 
friendly hands he has so long been seperated from. Yes the sensation 
experienced on taking a seat and getting under motion once more on the 
Cars was like being within sight of home and friends. true it is a 
thousand miles yet, but what is a thousand miles by railroad, distance is 
annihilated and we cannot realize it. I feele I am now almost home  Nine 
o'clock at night found me comfortable located in that best of homes for 
the traveler The Barnum House  Its superior cannot be found in the country 

   As soon as we got into St Louis I could notice the difference in the 
air we breathed. to me directly from the praries of nebraska where the air 
is pure and wholesom, it seemed almost stifling and as the omnibus went 
around from house to house, delivering passengers, through filthy streets 
and lanes, I was forsed to hold my handkerchief to my nose, to prevent the 
stench from sickening me. Undoubtedly I should not have noticed it had I 
come directly from Buffalo. But I had now got weaned from the delicious 
odor of a city

   Friday 28 -- The money I brought for Mr Gridley all had to be exchanged 
at this place which kept me busy until the cars were about to leave. I was 
in time however to take the morning tran at eleven o'clock, and reached 
Sandoval quarter before two P. M. Checked my baggage down to Centralia and 
there being no cars for a number of hours I walked down and reached Hatts 
at a little before four. Found them all well and pleased as well as 
surprised to see me. the first question was where is Mate and the children 
supposing I was from the East and they with me. Before going to Harriets I 
stoped at the post office and got a letter from Mate under date of the 
20th. Harriet and Charlotte have much to say about my rusty appearance. 
they say I look so black and forlorn they are ashamed of me. I have not 
worn a cravat for two or three months. I will try and get civilized by the 
time I reach Cooperstown

   Saturday 29 -- Received a letter from Br. Frank devoted the forenoon to 
writing. afternoon tended baby while Harriet done me some washing. Bailey 
and Tom went out last night on the train to return tonight again

   Sunday, 30 --Visited with Bailey and Thomas. have decided to leave here 
tonight half past nine so as to get into Chicago in the forenoon and leave 
the same Evening should I wait until tomorrow and go up on the train with 
Bailey and Thomas it would bring me into Chicago at midnight.

   Had a supper of boiled prarie chickens which was the greatest luxury I 
have had this season. The conductor on the train I was to go out on called 
here this evening. Said he would fix me through to Chicago

   Chicago Monday 31 -- Arrived here on time ten minutes before nine A. M. 
had a pleasant night slept some. Found Mr. Lyman who was pleased to see me 
took dinner and supper with him. Here I learn that the Reciprocity Bank

Page 85

of Buffalo closed its doors last Saturday. every dollar I have is on that 
bank it is not much but sufficient to pay my fair to Buffalo. I must try 
my chances. A report is in circulation here respecting Mr. Brayman which 
astonishes me. Mr Lyman thinks I am looking like a pioneer 

   Lake Erie on board Steamer Mississippi Tuesday Sept 1, 57  again I am 
rejoiced at being on the clear waters of this beautiful Lake the contrast 
from the muddy watters of the Missourie is delightful. I think at this 
time and for the sake of a little variety I would like to have a little 
bit of a gale on the lake. There is however no prospects as the air is 
still and the sky clear

   Last evening the cars left at 8 o'clock When The conductor came along I 
gave him my check for my baggage and told him how I was situated and I 
would fix it in Detroit Which I did do on seeing Mr Frazer. On reaching 
Marshal this morning before daylight we were two hours behind time. Two 
miles after leaving marshal one of the driving wheels of the Locomotive 
came off and we were obliged to send back to Marshal for a Locomotive to 
come and draw us into Marshal then go out again and bring in the crippled 
engine this detained us four hours so we did not reach Detroit until one 
o'clock P. M. when we were due seven o'clock A. M. We were however 
fortunate in having the Captain of the Steamer on the cars so the boat did 
not leave until our arrival  At 2 o'clock P. M. we were driving down the 
clear waters of Detroit river and by the time dinner was over we were out 
into the lake ploughing toward Buffalo

   I learn today on the boat that the Hollister Bank and White's Bank both 
of Buffalo have failed. Can't tell how true it is I say blessed be nothing

   We have had a delightfull evening which has been enjoyed by large 
number of passengers who remained out on deck enjoying moonlight on the 
water. At nine o'clock dancing was commenced and I retired.

   Wednesday -- 2d  Got up after a good nights sleep at six o'clock found 
we were still some thirty miles out  A slight fog and the smoke of the 
city so enveloped it we could not get a vew of the town until we rounded 
the light house. I remained on the boat until all the passengers had left 
watching for my cane which had been stolen on the boat  was not 
successfull in finding it. Took my satchel in hand and walked slowly up 
the familliar streets to Irwins store found all seemingly pleased to see 
me. Breakfasted and read letters returned from Omaha and one from Br. 
Frank and wife received this morning answered letters and made a few calls 
during the forenoon. Afternoon made some business calls, among which was 
one on the Turner Brothers passed by our house on Niagara Street. Did it 
not look familiar? the door stood open and I was almost tempted to go in. 
I looked in vain for wife and children, they came not to greet me  My 
friends seeme all rejoiced to see me and overwhelm me with questions. All 
have their remarks to make one says "you look like a returned Calafornian" 
another "you are a regular border ruffian in earnest" all agree in saying 
I look thin. I am afflicted with boils sufficient to make any one look thin

   The city looks close and cluttered to me. I presume that is owing to my 
having been where they give more scope to the streets and lay out cities 
on a

Page 86

more Magnificient scale and dont build their houses so high or close 
together. I did not think I looked quite so much like a ruffian until I 
got here to Buffalo where I find every one with their best clothes on and 
their faces and hands look as though they had been out to bleach 

   Lib and Sister Sarah took pity on me soon after I arrived, one mended 
up my coat while the others took some oil and a comb and tried to limber 
up and put my hair in shape  Irwin let me wear one of his cast off hats, 
and thus attired I looked about half civilized I think by the time I get 
to Cooperstown I shall begin to look natural and become civilized so that 
my family may not disown me.

   Spent this evening standing in the door of Irwins store watching the 
people as they pass more particularly the Ladies. they look very 
interesting. I had almost become so accostomed to being a widower that I 
saw little or nothing to attract my attention between the sexes I now 
however, where there are so many facinating creatures pasing every moment, 
am not quite as insensible to the difference and feele quite an in-
clination in favor of the ladies

   Irwin has been so full of his jokes and fun aided by Robert that I am 
myself again and feele like quite a different man have been so longe 
alone, no wife children or relation to speak with  I had become so Morose 
and mopish I was not my natural self  I think I will now fat up if I can 
get rid of my Boils. I find Irwin looking better than I have ever seen 
him. his business is good, and he is cherfull, and now knows how to manage 
the business with ease.

   Thursday 3 -- Did not sleep well last night owing to the pain of a boil 
which bid fair to be a severe one after breakfast went over to Dr. Grays 
had him drive a lance into it less than an inch and then burn it with an 
acostic it felt fine for a short time hope it will kill it with the aid of 
poltices

   Spent the forenoon in business connected with the house and lot. 
Afternoon went out to Cold Springs by way of Niagara, Virginia, Ninth and 
Cottage streets in company with Robert. Met Mrs. Hodge and Mrs House on 
Delaware St. near the church going a visiting. They were rejoiced to see 
me passed on to the house wher Joseph met me on the sidewalk and made such 
a nois Sarah come out to see what was the matter  Had a pleasant hour and 
as many pears as I could eat. Find their new house up the first story. 
Great changes are going on  Mr Wackermons house is up as well as Mr Huns 
the latter is finished. It made me feele lonesome to see the improvements 
all of which are attributed, and I think justly, to my moveing into the 
neighborhood.

   They have commenced paving Main st to Cold Spring the tax on the lot my 
house was on will be about $400. It will be a good investment

   Called on Mrs Halbert. found there a widow of one of Mr. Halberts 
Brothers or cousins her maiden name was Estabrook a cousin of Gen. 
Estabrook of 0maha. She was pleased to meet me so recently from where her 
cousin resided. Returned to Irwin's in time for a supper of broild chicken

   Friday -- 4 -- Found qute a number ready to negotiate for the house and 
lot on Niagara street. ther terms do not however suit me. Received a 
letter from the Turner Brothers which was returned to me from Omaha. said 
letter

Page 87

contains a proposition which I shall accept if I can do no better. 
Suffered severely from my boil all day. Received a letter from Frank 

   Saturday -- 5 -- Figured considerable about the house and lot but as 
yet have come to no terms with any one I have a week left still to operate 
in a few will get disappointed I can assure them.

   Sunday 6 -- Quite cool this morning spent the forenoon in writing 
afternoon took a stroll with Irwin up Niagara st and across to Mr. 
Vanduze's where we took tea, per invitation from Mr and Mrs V. extended to 
me in person this morning by Mr. V. We had a very pleasant walk and chat 
about old times, present times and the future got home just at dusk when 
Irwin and his wife, Miss Myers and Myself took a walk down to the 
steamboat landing. this is the first time I have walked out with the 
Ladies in Six Months

   I find Buffalo desecrates the Sabath as much as any western town I ever 
heard of. This noon a fire company come from N. Y. on the Cars. when they 
were met by one of this city companies and paraded the streets with a band 
of music, and drawing their Engine. This shocked me, in New orleans it 
might do. If the papers are not down on it I am mistaken

   Monday 7 -- Have had a busy day in negotiating with parties about the 
House and lot.  took Mr Hotchkiss up to look at it. It did not look like 
my home or as my home does when my wife presides. Found the grapevine as 
full as it could hold  it is a sight worth looking at. Called this 
afternoon at Mrs. Brown's to see Mrs. Meachem she was on a visit to 
Albany. Feele rather lonesome this evening but not as much so as I did at 
times in Omaha  Am still visiting with Irwin will be a boarder as soon as 
I get employment.

   Tuesday 8 -- Figured up my expencs for traveling the last year and find 
I must hold up as all is now gone and I have no hopes. Believe it my best 
plan to take the $15. it would cost me to go to Cooperstown and use it to 
get to living again. Nothing new today

   Wednesday 9 -- Still figuring about the house and lot but as yet no 
sale. Got the blues some

   Thursday 10 --Letters from Frank and Mate. Thought I had the bues 
yesterday but give it up did not know what the blues was.

   Friday 11. -- Sold ten Dollars Reciprocity Money for five dollars 
currant. My 36th berthday and the most unpleasant one I ever recollect to 
have passed.

   Saturday 12 --New costomers for the house and lot no sale however as 
yet.

   Sunday 13. Received letter from Brother Frank  Heard some unpleasant 
news

   Monday 14  This day visited the orphan Assylum and County poor house. 
At quarter past eleven at night took the cars en route to Coperstown

   Tuesday 15 -- Reached Fortplain at 8 o'clock A. M. started immediately 
on foot towards Cooperstown. Six miles from Fort Plain met Wife and Irwin 
coming in a buggy after me. Arrived at Cooperstown two o'clock P. M.

   16, 17, 18, & 19  Spent in visiting and figuring up some business for 
the winter.

Page 88

   Sunday 20 -- Walked up to the old homestead in company with Br. Frank 
some of the way rainy. Irwins 10th birth day the first spent in this place 
where he was born. 

   Monday 21 -- Figured with Mr. Bolls about engaging for the winter in 
selling patent rights for Camera Box. a supposed improvement for the 
Deguereon operator

   Tuesday 22 -- Started at Seven o'clock A. M. with Br. Frank for 
Franklin to visit our Mother and Sister. Stoped at a hop yard on the East 
side of the Susquehanna one or two miles below Milford Village and took in 
Cornelia Armstrong. Arrived in Franklin village about two o'clock P. M. 
found our mother quite low but recovering from an attack of dysentery 
which had come near proving fatal. concidering all things we had a 
pleasant visit

   Wednesday 23 --Left Franklin village on our return about 10 o'clock A. 
M. Dined at Oneonta with friend Pick  Left Cornelia where we found her and 
reached Cooperstown Six in the evening

   Thursday 24 -- Experimented in taking views with the Patent camera box 
preparatory to going out selling patents

   Friday and Saturday 25 & 26 -- Not important

   Sunday, 27 -- Rode up to Father Penningtons and took dinner took up 
Mate and Sophia. Irwin remained at home on account of a boil on his face. 
Evening walked out with Frank and Cockett.

   Monday 28 --Wife and children left in the noon stage for Alden N. Y. en 
route to Buffalo. Afternoon very lonesome,

   Tuesday, 29 -- Experimented with the Patent Camera Box.

   Wednesday, 30 -- Otsego County Agricultural Fair assisted Brother Frank 
in his store. Had a very busy day of it and a good trade. received $1.50 
for my services, being sufficient to pay stage fare to Railroad.

   Thursday, Oct. 1 -- First frost of the season at this place, ice formed 
in the washbasin out of doors. Walked out of town at seven o'clock was 
soon overtaken by the stage. was the only passenger the first ten miles. 
The sun rose clear and soon dispelled the fog that hung over the Lake. The 
ride along the west side of the lake was delightfull. Still it reminded me 
strongly of the time I left Cooperstown ten years previous in the Month of 
December, with a view -- if the place suited me -- of taking up my 
residence in Buffalo. At that time I was the only passenger the entire 
route to Fort Plain  It was in the midst of a thaw and no snow on the 
ground The roads were in such condition it was not deemed safe to use the 
Coach, and a lumber waggon was substituted. In the center of this waggon I 
took my seat the lone passenger, some of the way moving at a snail pace at 
others going at a breakneck speed. all day through a drizzling rain  At 
Cooperstown I was leaving Father, Mother, Brothers, sisters wife and baby, 
the baby not three months old. But young as it was, it was one of the 
motive powers that indused me to try a new home. And it was with a sad 
heart that I crossed the susquehanna on that morning (the road on the east 
side of the lake was not then completed) not knowing when if ever I should 
recross it to visit my friends and native place. The convenianc of

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travel as well as the expence has greatly changed for the benefit of the 
traveler since that time, and I cannot recollect the number of times I 
have since visited Cooperstown at all seasons of the year and under varied 
circumstances sometimes on business of a commercial nature, sometimes to 
meet with my Brothers and Sisters to gladden the hearts of our parents, 
sometimes with my family and at one time to follow my Fathers remains to 
the grave. 

   The past ten years has been full of changes with me and I feel very 
much as I did ten years ago when I left Cooperstown not knowing if I 
should ever be called on business or by my own inclination again to 
return.  My friends and relatives have become scattered and I am myself 
out of business and unsettled and may take up my residence in the far 
west.  In all the visits I have made to C. during the last ten years, I 
have never left the place as I did at that time until this day. The only 
passenger in the Coach. This fact has tended to make me feele sad and 
gloomy and to ruminate on the past. At about 8 o'clock I bid adieu to Lake 
Otsego and sooner than I expected we wheeled up to the Hotel at Hallsville 
there we took in more passengers and my train of thought was changed

End of the Diary