4 October 1851
Awakened at an early hour, dressed by candlelight, breakfasted also by the same sort of light. The rain pattered down drearily-hardly expected to be able to leave Jacksonville today. Father finally concluded that we must come home.

I rode with cousin (WPM?) and cousin Ann Eliza, drove father to Point Deposit where we found ourselves in full time when after waiting about two hours for the steamer we finally embarked-Cousin A(nn) E(liza) and self walked out to the pier in advance of the others, and enjoyed for a few minutes alone the rain and the wind the foaming waves and approaching boats. As we neared Aurora the clouds became more broken, now and then struggling beams of the sun faintly streamed upon us. I chatted with a couple of Quaker ladies who were very sociable upon common topics-but preserved a strict (illegible) concerning themselves-although I with a simplicity thoroughly American told them who I was and where I came from-and knew as much about themselves, although they dreamed it not. Then I helped a couple of Misses exhibit their verduncy in sightseeing. Besides I had a short chat with a sweet young lady from Cayuga Bridge whose name has skipped my memory to my regret. Walked through the garden to the Aurora House and entered the dreary, deserted and chilly parlor.

Called to the Astor house, encountered Miss Sarah in the hall. It seemed hardly possible that she should recognize me for nearly two years had passed since we had met. Was presented to Miss Cowen of Providence Rhode Island, a lively, witty, entertaining sort of a young lady quite my taste-dined with them. Willy came for us about four P. M. rained all the way home. Found Evander quite ill, Mother also.

8th October-Spent the evening at Mrs. Cannons-saw the Mr.
14th-Rode with Evander to Nelson Morgan's and spent the day. After dinner, Mrs. Morgan and me went to the Carding Mills.
16th Oct.-Evander and self went to Mrs. Robinson's in Scipio, called at Dolly's-Anna and Mrs. Robinson accompanied us as far as Mrs. Russell's. A beautiful day. Evander was much wearied. Wrote to Somebody about this time.
Molly and me went to Mrs. Power's to spend the afternoon, just got ourselves nicely seated when we were sent for at home. Found (Rand?) M. Fell at our house. Mary had just returned from Philadelphia. John came in the evening also F. Miller came to tea-the evening passed quite pleasantly away.

27th-Called to see Mrs. B., found her all upside down ready to leave in the morning. Met the Misses McLaughlin's and Lester.

28th-Mary drove Jane to Auburn. Mrs. Bowen called to bid us goodbye previous to her embarking for California which they will the 11th of November, 1857.

Nov.7th-A. Youn died. 8th-Mary went to Mrs. Toan's. D. Russell came here, was called down to the store twice. 9th-Attended Amesills funeral, rode home with Mrs. Toun.

Nov. 13, 1851. This day our Brother left our fireside to seek a more genial clime in the South. Kind Heaven-grant that health which he seeks may not be denied him-Again we are separated. I too left the home circle-many long months rolled themselves away until I returned to my dear Home. For a few short months we enjoyed it together. How we ought to have enjoyed them. 'Tis absence that teaches us to enjoy the companionship of friends. Now Evander has gone and will be hundreds of miles away-to home soon! May another Spring with its buds and blossoms bring him back like them renewed as it were in vigorous spirits. D. Carmon took him to Aurora; there he took the steamer to Ithica (sic), Erie line to New York.

17th-Lyman, Mary and self spent the evening to Mr. Fells. Stayed 'till near midnight for it to grow light-rode home in great misery of being spilled out of the wagon.
18th-Attended the commencement of the Genoa Academy-a crowded house-whole number of pupils that participated in the exhibition. The closing scene was a dialogue of Parkins by four fellows Thompson Huet_____&______. A part of it was overdone not too much however for the good people of Genoa Village. As a whole I was not as well pleased with it as when acted by T. Atwood Morgan, D. Shephard & G. Campbell in Aurora. A light snow improved the coming home part-met Miss P. Ward.
20th November 1851-Received a paper from Evander in New York.
22-Received a letter from friend S.
24th-Went to N. Bennett, found them not at home, left a note in the window purporting that we would come the next evening. Came home and called on Milton Cuppens (?)-spent the evening.
25th-Molly and self all prepared from head to toe for the storm which was raging without. Sallied out to meet our engagement at Mr. B. at which place we arrived safe. Lyman came for us in the buggy-snow 1 foot deep.
26th-The first sleighs of the season-went to the store twice-beautiful without and cheerful within-painted some.
27th-Thanksgiving Day-Mr. Moss and wife and Johnny too to supper after the table was cleared had a regular play of days gone by nothing more or less then blind man's bluff-have not laughed so much in a long while or been so earnestly merry.
28th-Mother and self went to the store-saw J. Wood-received a paper from brother, mailed Baltimore, MD, a letter from Aunts Paulina and Phebe-all well. And now having written far into the night I will retire so goodbye pen while I rest in the care of Morpheus.
29th-M.and N. Morgan spent the day.
Dec 2nd- Mary went to Mrs. Toan's, Mrs. Cannon, J. and D. and Mr. And Mrs. N Bennett spent the evening.
Dec 10th- Lyman and self went to Auburn-saw Willis and Ed. A letter from E. mailed Savannah Georgia.
12- Mary went to N. Morgan's spent the day. Lyman went to Aurora-sent a letter to E. by Mr. Bevier.
15-Eugene took Lyman to Auburn to School. N. Bennett called.
16-Heard of Seth Robinson's death. N. B. and Lady to tea.
18-Went with Father to Auburn-purchased M. and self (illegible) figured DeLaines, ordered a bonnet made, called at T. Doughteys on our way home. Georgia as ever late when we reached home.
20-Called upon Mrs. Sellin at D. Cannons. Mary and self visited at Mr. Crippen's. (Congden?)
22-Went to Stewart's Corners, sent a letter to Savannah, visited Mrs. Fordyce, met Joe Otis.
24-Butchered 18 swine. Mr. Bennett and Mrs. Crippen (Congden?) and wife and baby spent the evening.
25-Christmas spent at home. Father brought my new hat from Auburn, some such a pine apple in sugar as Christmas presents.
26-Mrs. Toan, H. and L. spent the evening. Mr., Miss and Henry included.
28-M. Wood and I came over, they staid all night, sat up till one o'clock, talked over old times , slept three in a bed. Nears three o'clock when we closed our eyes to sleep. Wrote a letter to E….Jacobs-Brooklyn.
29-Monday morning-J. Wood came over for May. Had an invitation to watch meeting New Years Eve.
31-Wednesday-a rainy dreary day for the closing year.

1852
January 1st-the New Years Day of joy to many, to others sadness, to me of mingled sensations-anxiety and disquietude concerning Evander whose fate we are in an uncertainty about-Gladness because Lyman came home from school-rode with C. Miller from Auburn-A ball to J. Cannon's-our girl went and staid till 3 in the morning-the only one of the family that celebrated New Year's-it went off like other days-to me was never so quiet at home before-something of a contrast to last year's. Then I went to church before sunrise, had a sleigh ride afterwards and I disremember what else filled out the day-'twas beautiful sleighing then.
2-Sewed all day. L. M. and self rigged off for C. Tracy's. Called for the Woods. G. not at home. Mary called. Staid to go with May, Lyman and self-went on-found Miss Sarah at home. In about half an hour May and Mary came without him, he not returning they concluded not to be foiled out of their proposed visit. Mary staid with May the night. Came home and read for Father. Retired at 1 o'clock.
3-Mended carpet, cooked, made monge and dressed for company. J. Fell called in the morning to bid us goodbye.
3 January 1852-Mary came home with May and Jim Wood. Mr. N. Bennett and Minerva came about ½ past 7, Lovina Lyon, Miss Sarah Tracy, Miss R. Fell, Mr. L. Lyon, etc. J. Fell came to bid us all a long goodbye. The evening passed somewhat sadly, yet merry at times. Supper at 10 o'clock. John kissed us all goodbye for California. It seemed too bad the finest young man in the country bound for that distant land away from home and friends, may his golden dreams be realized and a quick return to his affectionate sisters whose absence be it ever so short, will seem long to them at home. Miss L. Lyon. Had not seen her before in nearly two years-changed yet still the same-those round rosy cheeks half gone yet those many fine, loving dimples there. Left about ½ past eleven, did not retire till one o'clock at night. L. L. went home with May, Sarah tempted me to accompany her home.
4-(Lat)? Rises throughout the house. Read Lamartini's History of the Gisondisit's. Eugena carried Lyman part way to Auburn, overtook J. Fell with whom he rode the remainder of the way. Retired at 8 o'clock-slept a long way into Monday morning-wrote to A. E. Woodworth.
5-Monday. Mended carpet and to night writing the accumulated notes of a month. I'm sick, Mother too.
7-Painted today on my sketch of Taghannock Falls. Egbert and W. Jacobs came. Egbert had not heard from Evander which increased our anxiety. He spoke of seeing cousin Elizabeth H. in Brooklyn, left for home in the evening.
8-My painting of the falls again interrupted by the arrival of company. Mrs. A. Rundle and daughter Elizabeth in the evening. David and his wife called for them-rather a good-looking pleasant (ill.) a girl hastily judging. Received letters from Evander just in time to prevent us from Telegraphing south-dated Jacksonville, Florida. Also a letter from my friend S., interesting and comical.
9-Mary, Father and myself attended the funeral of the widow of Deacon Bateman-an excellent sermon by elder Ames. Mr. And Mrs. N. Morgan called to hear Evander's letters read.
10-Mary said Father went to Auburn. Done all the rest of the housework from having given out painting upon the falls. A little late when they arrived home.
11-Eugene took Lane to Riley's, M. and F. called.
12-Monday-being at everything-N. Bennett called.
13-Party at J. Cannon's, father away during the day.
14-Painting again upon the falls. Mrs.L. Morgan called. Avery came for her just as they drove away. Mr. Dunham drove up with his niece and our cousin from Raysville Pennsylvania whom I met 5 years ago. Changed as little as could be expected in that length of time with one who had already reached their prime, bearing a strong resemblance to Mrs. Susan Waters and Mrs, Julia Colgrove, his cousins. Her Uncle a stalwart man of fifty with antique manners, course visage, frankness and warm-heartedness (ill.) the bluntness of his address. He related several (ill.) anecdotes of Crocker and others.
15-Breakfast at the usual hour after which meal our guests departed. H. Haven, H. Toan, M. Kensington and others in. Mother and father spent the evening at Nelson Bennett's.
16-A. Toan and George spent the evening. Father heard at the store that S. was going to California.
17-Just at the setting of the sun, cousin A. and Lyman drove up in great (ill.) half frozen.
18-Mrs. A. Morgan funeral held at the E. Ridge. Cousin A., Lyman, Mary and self attended. Everybody there. In the evening as my brother, cousin, Mary and self were having a cozy chat in the sitting room, myself on a low sitting stool, an attentive listener to a lively and confidential conversation. A rap at the door opened by Mary-Misses M. and R. bowed themselves in quite to my surprise and pleasure. Had not before met K(R)endel within a year and a half. Chatted of various things; California, balls, parties, etc., having their share, ended by inviting M and self to attend a ball upon the 20 ultimo. Accepted upon my part providing nothing more at present that I am aware of present weather providing, etc., they made their adieus at an early hour. But somehow us children could not manage to again unite in the little sitting-the thread of our broken discourse-too many stitches had been dropped.
19-Lymon and C. Anson left at 10 o'clock for Auburn, the weather being intensely cold. Worked an immense washing, hardly finished when Tom Fisher and Mary Fell came. Quite unexpected on his part supposing as we did that he was in the city. Still he had returned intending to go to California-had given it up. The snow drifting so badly he concluded to leave Mary for us to see safely home and return by Smith's Corners. After he had departed, Mary F., and May M. and self wrote a note to May Wood.
20-Father took M. Fell home at noon. J. (not Jim) Wood came in, talked over a lot of news, the most important of which appeared to be an addition to the family at Mr. Nelson Robinson's. V. Grippen called.
21-About half past three o' clock, Mr. Jim Wood made his appearance. M and self made ourselves ready by four. We called out at Strong's, found the road choked to death and were obliged to back out and go through the lots to M's Corners. M. Fell's young ladies were not ready. Had a good warm and all started out in good spirits at sunset. Reaching Col. L's in good season-our note had just been received and consequently we found ourselves unexpected. In time to make ready, one of the children lying dangerously ill, we concluded to go up and have Tom and (ill.) go back to (ill.) F. and spend the evening with us. We met them north of Sherwood but they passed unawares. We drove up to F. and waited till they should return, got set once in the yard. The (ill.) returned when we got a good warm and started back for Fellsdale. Ran into a cutter on the return trip and narrowly missed a sleigh. We spent a pleasant evening there united after all of the mishaps and discomfitures of the evening. Returned home at a late hour by Woods.
22-Mr. Aiken to tea.
23-Finished green dress and etceteras.
24-Mrs. D. Cusman (?) called-pleasant chat. Lexington Green and Remington Toan and others in, went down to the store, had a nice walk-a beautiful day, excellent sleighing, fearful that it won't last.
25 January 1852-A beautiful day-usual routine of household chores from chambers to cellar-dressed for dinner , read R. Fells scrapbook, called to Mr. D. Cannons to see Mrs. C. Sellen. Found them making molasses candy. Staid to eat some. Mrs. Cannons and Mr. (ill.) in, W. E. Miller and brother W. Miller and came home, read scrapbook, ate some apple pie and retired.
26-Monday-washing day, up returns George Slocum, came in as witty and pleasant as ever. Finished Monday work by two. Mrs. Grippen and baby came. Mrs. C. in the evening. Mrs. related some interesting Aurora incidents. After 9 o'clock, visitors having departed, I sat myself down to write notes-having not much to write of real incident-sort of a sad heart, heavy, dreary, unsatisfactory past, uncertain shadowy future. In vain, I sigh for the book of fate to be opened, for the dark mists to lift from the coming days to give me barely one glimpse of my own fate. To know if kind heaven vouchsafes to me a long, happy and prosperous life, surrounded by warm and generous friends or else short and tempest tossed wearing wearily life's clanking chains-but whether my days be long or short, surrounded by darksome clouds or glad sunshine, I will endeavor to throw around a happy influence of a cheerful, hopeful temper changing (the rest is illegible).
28-Called on Mrs. Cannon-a pleasant chat about all sorts of things.
30-Went to Stewart's-J. Moss driving-had a nice ride(ill.). Dressed for the party. Mrs. Fish called, Mrs. Moss and Mrs. Albridge about the inf. the four-horse omnibus drove up in all the agony imaginable. Mr. Mosher came in and in due time we were ready and in motion received various additions to our load along the (ill.) some sixteen young ladies in all if I rightly remember. Mrs. Culver Pierce and _____Rathbuns, Fay, Hixes, Cannons, Miller, Smith, Shordes, Allen_____The party is beyond my powers of description. I enjoyed myself indifferently. I could hardly say as well as I expected-for my expectations are always too high. I formed the acquaintance of Mr. Steuils (?) , sort of an agreeable personage, after his own fashion, Misses Kellet, Willet, Merit and ______I have forgotten, the names and personages inclusive. Talked with S. about California, going to Sea, friendship, and friends "ah-is friendship but a name". The party broke up at 3 but did not get away 'till 6 o'clock. Had one of the rides home, changed our omnibus for a lead colored sleigh a Rathbun's, reached home by 9 o'clock, thought not to sleep any but couldn't help it-slept till one o'clock, , waked by company coming. Mr. Sheldens staid to tea, never saw H. before and seeing him through my sleepy vision all trace of his looks have vanished my memory.
3rd Feb- Mrs. Morgan (Capt.) came whilst we were eating breakfast, remained till after dinner, chatted of her family.
4th-Mother and self went with father to N. Morgan's, called to the Toan's, Hutchinson's, Huff's, did not find M. Morgan at home. M. and me rode home with N. Morgan (Capt.) and Mrs. They called in the evening. M and me called to (undecipherable) and Mr. Grippen's did not find them at home or else going away. A beautiful evening over head miserable.
5th- Washing, mopping, laboring in the morning. Mrs. --- called. Mary and self went to the ----. Eugene came in the morning staid till 11 walked home by the light of the moon upon the snow banks, now and then breaking in, falling down and rolling over the banks.
6th- Lansing Toan called for Mother and self to go to the Nufors (Mosher?). Mrs. Morse, Mrs. Toan and miss went. Saw her shells and other curiosities-a bridal party came whilst we were _________wife, the Moshers ___it rained coming home and was dark.
9th- Mary went calling. Mr. Morgan and Mary called for Mother to accompany them to Mr. Strongs. Mr. Tifft, Mr. Bennett and Minerva came-father went to Strongs also. M. and N. staid and visited with us children till 11 o'clock-wrote a letter to N. Tracy and E.
10th- went with Father to Auburn-poor sleighing. Saw Ed Farmer, chatted over old times, Aurora affairs. Ed said our mutual friend Sarah had changed. I thought he had changed too but tis a changing world. _______ Left the city at half past 3, drove home myself with the same snow and wind.-found Mrs. C. Seller and Mr. T. Seller at home chatted a pleasant hour.
12th- Dropped into Toan's (?) Mrs. C. came and chatted away half an hour. Father came home at dark from Auburn, some new lives-passed the evening with-working cap.
13th- New papers-read them through-perused the life of _____ in Meadly's life, worked cap, wrote Valentines, a scroll for Sarah Atwood and family. Brought my violas which were in the rear into fire. Father and Mother spent the evening to Mrs. Toan-she being sick. Mary grunting with the tooth aike-oh dear- my heart is as heavy as lead-made several resolves-God grant that in the future God may keep them to her. Adieu for tonight.
14th- Mary, Eugene and self spent the evening at the Fells chatted over times gone by.
16th- Mrs. G. Tifft, Mrs. Bennett to tea.
24th- Mary and myself staid the night to Nelson Bennett's-received a letter from Evander dated Savannah.
25th- Came home about 10 o'clock in the morning.
26th- Lyman returned home from Auburn.
27th- Butchered pigs-a very unpleasant day too.
28th- Father went to Auburn. Mr. and Miss Sheldon came, a rainstorm to add to the pleasure-
29th- After dinner, Mr. S. and Miss Mary S. started for home-a pleasant young lady-a wish for a better acquaintance in the perspective.
1st March 1852- Washing day-like to have read Washington's day-a great day written as it may be. After dinner Mr. And Mrs. Robinson and babies, Miss Cowen and D. Russell came.
2nd- our company left and we as usual preferred for more, it being town meeting day doomed to disappointment in the result-had a last view of Friend S. M. from the Tavern.
A lingering look he cast; ____the last.
Ah-I forgot, we did have company-the Finished Dale______done as the hour of a call, highly gentrified, exquisite whiskers, better shape than color though that is even admirable-retired at an early hour.
6th- By a singular coincidence this morning the scattered members of our family appear to be in motion-Evander leaving Savannah for the North, Lyman leaving Auburn with cousin W. Jacobs for home, Father and self leaving home for Auburn to bring him thither-meeting amid way more of my old friends in the city-saw Mr. D. P. Wallis, visited Mr. Clough's studio-was disappointed in the result-the paintings which I saw were not equal to them which I had viewed in former visits to the same studio. Returning from Europe I expected greater things of him- he is an enigma which time must solve for me-some three or four landscapes which I saw of more merit than all the rest-saw several passable pictures in oil at a gilders, called at T. E. Doughty's saw George-bright as ever.
7th- attended church at Scipio Center. Mrs. Charles Fitch invited us to sit with her. Annie Williams, Mary and self staid to both services.
8th- Cousin W. left for house sleeping about worn out to night-a heavy thundershower took off what was left.
12th- after dinner, called into M. Grippens, read the last of the _____Best Deed, Mrs. C. and baby came home with me-sat by the windows reading Railroad Accidents when three gentlemen drove up. Mother went around to the kitchen window and perceived that the one was Evander-the consternation that filled all hearts can be better imagined than described when we saw ___helping him to the house. He reached ___the 9th March on a steamer from the south_______________________near Hawkins Harbor-a sail broke and the cars were precipitated down the back of the Delaware_____of breaking and the ___prevented him from going into the river. Evander escaped with whole bones bruised and jared- minus a hat, 'kerchief and trunk, remained to the station till the next day when he took the five-o'clock train to Owego there fell in company with Mr. Searing, staid the night in Ithica, took the stage in the morning for home. W. Kellt and Mr.Russ brought him home from there immediately sent for a physician, Mary, (the Irish girl) ran in to see him-George Miller_____we did not retire till late-Mary sat up all night.
13th- Evander better. Dr. Fordyce, Mr. Fish and others-an unpleasant day.
14th- Sunday-Miss S. Miller and Mrs. G. Cannon called-I. Wood, Lansing Toan. Miss Pross and ___to see Evander-sort of a dreary, cheerless day.
15th- A busy morning-Mr. E. Miller called-N. Morgan staid to discuss a wearisome day being Monday.
17th-Mr. L. Cannon called to see Evander.
18th- Samuel Wood Willy met with an accident-he was driving-the horse became frightened and ran-he in his fright jumped from the machine and fell under the horses feet, by good luck he escaped with little injury. Miss Strong and N. Morgan called and Bennett.
19th- Received a letter from Miss Rounne, California-also W. Jacobs & Anson Murdock.
20th- A sad day, why should it be, ah! My heart I ask thee why-is it because of the conversation of faithless dress-ah-why should I say faithlessness, no-no-I mistake tis wrong wood(?). Tis sad to know there that you can esteem for this mind well-cultivated pure sensibilities and tastes who can appreciate your tastes (and don't make vulgar expressions about paintings) are capable of acting a fake part ___in this wide world must there be-'tis sad indeed!_____________
To me the future is one dark blank, not one single day of brightness illumes the vast unknown of life to come, that-I could know what the future has in store for me much of good or much of evil-good we hope-but Ah- kind father our cup be evil-full we place ourselves at thy feet, thee who tempers the wind to the ___lamb-have a care for us-we will pine not, we will not waste the future in dreaming over the past, no, we will turn to the coming days with renewed energies and if ought there be to forget or cherish with pleasant memories-amen~

23 March A. D. 1852
Sawing wood-Evander went to the store, snow some inches deep. N. M. and M. Morgan came after dinner. Mrs. G. Smith came for Nelson D. Rundell-called to see Evander.
25th-painted Cascade Bridge on the Erie Railroad.
27-called at Mr. Grippen's-read about the excavating of Wit…phis.
28th- Well, I've brought my notes up to this period and hope they won't remain in the STATUS QUO for the next four weeks or more-but no knowing what I shall do for the time to come. It has been a beautiful day-sunshine and birds warbling, some snow left still, a quiet Monday, quiet except the war which waged within one's heart.
29th- A great washing to do after dinner Mother and Evander went down to Mrs. Toans-a weary, weary day.
30th- a ____unpleasant day-patchwork today in vogue.
31st- last day of March! ___dictated a letter to Aunt Pauline.
1st April-M and Evander went to Nelson Morgan's. M. did not come back-sat up till 11-Lansing Toan spent the evening-M. Remington in.
2nd- Mary came home early in the morning. Got myself ready to go see Mrs. Toan-snow storm________it and dawdled away the afternoon as best I might.
3rd- dressed and walked down to Mrs. Toan's-frozen ground staid the evening-Lansing brought me home-mother up.
4th- Mary and Eugene and Willy went down to Mrs, Toans-N. Morgan brought Evander home.

APRIL
July 11th 1852-more than three months have passed since I took pen in hand to jot down passing events, little can I know remember of the shadowy days that were, but now are gone-ah where!
April-Mrs. Fell and Rachel called staid to tea-chatted of California and Californians had heard from John Fell.
20- gloomy and sad- I would bid adieu to this world and retire to some convent to pass the remainder of life without a sigh for the bright world as some say save the parting from parents and brothers and sisters. In this wide, wide world there is not one heart that beats responsive to my own-once I dreamed but now avoid such nonsense. I've learned to look on the real side of life and that is all doubt, deep and dark (willows?)roll between me, and certainty, my heart remains around the domestic hearth and its joys-but that is not for me-there is no one on whom I could trustingly lay my burden of life but what would cast it back again. Last week of April. Misses Boies (?) and Myers staid the night.
30-Mr. Green and Jennings here. Mary and Rachel Fell had many laughs for the fat boy.
May Day-a bright beautiful day-seeming some like a year ago in Springfield-plenty of wild flowers and a moss pyramid adjoined with shells and redcaps.-
About this time, Mary and self visited at Mrs. E. Fishes. Met Mrs. Roundy (Ronsby?) of Rochester interested with her and the women's rights ideas. Mrs. Ronsby (?) and _____, Miss Fish, Mrs. S. Fish, Alsa and Edwin , Calvin Tracy to tea who said Sarah had returned from Elmira sometime previous.
8th Mary Jennings and Green called-a lovely day.
8th- Mary walked to Mr. Fells. Father came home from Auburn where he had spent the week.
9- Father and Mother went to call upon Anna-did not find her at home, came back to Fells from dinner-brought Mary home. Mr.Green here-P. Purdy called.
10-Father, Willy and Mr. Green drove away the fat cattle.
19-Diantha and Elsa Fish called-left the doll.
29-Evander and Father went to Auburn to see Kossuth-heard him in the 2nd church for a Hungarian band 31 May- Lyman took Father to Auburn en route for Kentucky. Lyman saw Kossuth as he stepped on board the cars for the cast. House cleaning----Painting white-wash.
June 5th- Cousin Anna children and Mr. Robinson were to tea with us.

17th-received a letter from Father written Cleveland saying he should be in Auburn that night or in the morning-Eugene immediately started for Auburn.
18th- Eugene came home at night without Father or intelligence.
19-Evander went to Auburn. Mr. Phelps fixed my teeth.
20-Sunday-Eugene rode to Auburn-came home at night without seeing Evander or hearing from Father. Mr. Dunning called.
21- Lyman, Mother and I went out to Auburn. Evander telegraphed to Buffalo. Met S. Morgan, revived my acquaintances with Miss Mary Wood-heard all about Aurora. Dr. A. Thompson married the Misses Del. & Louisa Morgan in a decline. Met Mrs. Wanzer of Rochester found her most agreeable.
21 June 1852- Called into Clough's studio, chatted about painting and called to Nelson's on our return_______.
22- Father returned about noon after Eugene went to Auburn for Evander who did not know that Father had come home about 11 at night so therefore the disunited family is once more under one roof.
24- Visited Mary and G. at Mrs. Fordyce. Met Dr, and Miss E.-went up to see the new goods ___________
27-Mary and I called to Mr. Ness.
28- Mary went to Auburn came home with _______dresses. Lansing Toan came here.
1st July- A ball at J. Cannons-very rainy night.
2nd- Accompanied Father to Auburn. Met S. M., Miss Wood, Mr. Underhill chatted with and did not reach home till past 11-made tea and supper for Father and me.
3rd- Mary went to Stewarts Co. and I, I, I worked.
4th July-well we had straw berries for tea, straw berries and cream! In plenty too! Eugene took me to Mrs Toan's.
5th went with J. from there to the celebration at Scipio Center. then Sarah Tracy in particular _____sick on our return-Sketched.
6th finished sketching. Mr. And Mrs. Lampkin, Uncle Parker and Cousin L. Halsey came to our house.
7 July Wednesday-whilst engaged in the very useful employment of Latin, ___a carriage was announced as driving up the lane. Behold misses Mary Murdoch and Triphena Halsey-went with them to call on cousin Anna Robinson-a terrific thunder storm passed over-fearful we should not reach home-homeward we had a full view of the magnificent lightening chains-never saw anything to equal it-
8- we had an early dinner for Uncle and Family started for Trumansburg about 11 o'clock A. M.. It hardly seemed as though I had seen them at all when they were gone.
9-Had a horrific thunder and lightening storm. Commenced another letter to cousin Hannah. Blew down our favorite old Willow.
10-Evander set out for Port Byron. ___went to the office . Read some and sewed more.
11- A heavy rain and wind this after noon-cleared off pleasant now-sunshine and sparkling dewdrops, birds warbling-glorious. For my Acking hand, I'll cease writing, not to be obliged to jot for three months from ___________________.
13th- Mary took me to Mrs. Toans, called to see Anna on the way
17-L. took me to Mrs. Cowens.
18th- In the morning, suited myself as to the _________. After breakfast ___ and me went into the garden found straw berries and black raspberries, cucumbers, grapes and goose berries. At o o'clock, L. called for me. Found R. Fell with Mary after R. went home went up to Mrs. Toans again.
23- Mr. W. Rundell and Lady, Mr. N. Lumpkin and Lady came and spent the day-a lovely day too.
25- L. brought me home this morning.
31st- called into the store.

August 7-received a visit from Jennie Foiles (?), Mr. G. R. Fell. I just returned from a three months spent in the city. A pleasant afternoon to me. Chatting N york friends and sight seeing Art Museum, National Gallery, Uncle Tom.
11- Mother and me went over to Mr. Woods. Mary went for his Mother, Misses Ellen Wood and Alaria (?) called. Much pleased with E. Wood-poor child of the sunny south-sympathy draws me near thee-
14- rode home with Mrs. Fell-Mary over to Slocums. Met Miss Phebe Ward-her absent brothers and the one twin in a watery grave. "Down, down many a fathom-thy bones shall repose"-has cast a deep shadow upon her brow-after tea herself and father left.
15- accompanied the Fells to church. Met Miss Purdy, Mrs. Slocum. Introduced to Miss Slocum-disappointed much and why should I be for I was for worth only that she was mentioned to me-it ought perhaps to show that my friend looked at something more than a pretty face. We had no sermon. Rachel Brown said few words and sat down again-and for the life of me I could not tell what she meant to explain. After our dinner, Mr. ___called. Elisha Slocum brought Mary home. Mr. Young came with Miss Hull-went down to the swing- Mr. Young, Mary F. and Miss Hull swung, walked upon the bank of the pond. Mr. ____was going to bring me home when Mary came for me with young Sylvester. Miss Margaret Wood, Miss Lovinius(?) and Miss Ellen Wood visited us . We talked about vegetations of ____of Auburn.
22nd August- Lyman M. and I attended divine service at Scipio Center. Mr. McDowell filled the dark in the morning. Met Miss Polly Rathbun-a genius surely. Tore the fringe of my cape. Went in to Mr. Aikens to get it repaired. Saw P Gallup who very abruptly inquired with whom I was conversing(?) with-went down to the burying ground. Called into Mrs. Morse, Anna and Robinsons called during our absence.
25- went shopping-great shopping with one store.
26- Mr. Williams, Engineer of the Cayuga R.R. called-did not have half a glimpse.
27- had succotash for dinner. Mr. Williams and brother again in town. A ball to Converse's. Henry Haven here-called on Mrs. Win___ with a basket of ripe apples endeavoring to make my call acceptable if possible. I hope not soon again to have to hunt up old notes.
I have written what has happened to me in the outward world but have pened nought of the shadows which float cloud cast across the mind-the dull blank of future time in journeying on to fill up with existence-and is that all is then of life-no aim, no object, no, no, it is not. I live for a nobler aim I trust-painting-yes-I've taken thee to my heart to cherish through the coming years.
28-did not in my early reasons why, kept wake and disturbed in the night by the confusion resulting from and pertaining to a public ball held at our place which as a matter of course none of our family attended. After chamber work was finished assisted in the kitchen (girl having gone home to stay over night) made apple pies, ___the bread, and manufactures apple dumplings for dinner. Assisted in rigging Gothe for Auburn. Trimmed the cape of my ____with lace, ate dinner and read a story in the Rural New Yorker, dressed for a drive with Mary, called on Mr. Fells' young ladies, met there Mr. And Mrs. Hamilton from Auburn, drove to Sherwood, called to Jennie Fisher-not at home-dropped in to see Miss King-found her cheerful as ever and Mr. Bryant ______, poor fellow-his mind is a complete wreck and the little twin girls they are quite pretty.
Called on Mrs. Joseph Otis-did not find her at home but instead met ____friend Neal Smith and Miss Davis of Albany-came home by Smith's Corners. Neal spoke of Sid-said they had just received a letter from him and he sent his respects to us-said he was at Placerville.
We made the "destined to be important place" of Murdock's Corners by sun down-found Mr. & Mrs. Grippen and baby visiting ____Diantha and Miss ___Fish. Had just called Nelson Morgan and Mary drove up and chatted awhile. Engaged a _____-read the literary page of the New York Times and wrote till the hour of retiring.
29- Lyman, Mary and self drove around by Smith's Corners and Wheelers and called to Henry Purdy's and Miss Caroline Slocum & Fred-Misses Sisson, Miss Fletcher, __Wood drove away just after we called. Miss Purdy imagined we had frightened him away, funny. Mr. A. Underhill & Mr. Backes called-found the Purdy's quite agreeable. Made home by ___Father had just returned from Port Byron.
31-Just nicely painting when Mrs. L. Fordyce was announced. Mr. O. Wheaton called to see Father. Himself & son from New York to dinner-quite a pleasing appearing gent of 35-my guessing. Dr. Fordyce came in the evening for Emeline-and so endeth the month of August, 1852.

September 1852
I sewed in the morning upon Mary's silk and fur dress. Betsy and I went Blackberrying. Lyman started for the State Fair at Utica-took the ___-great. __Talcott's Corners found the Misses Fell-at home upon my return. Obtained 12 quarts of berries-heard direct from Jennie Forbes (?) and L. Lyon. Miss L. not married as reported. Jennie at Mr. Pancosts(?) visiting the day we called there from coming home from the city to ___his failing health-had letter from Mrs. Barnes(?) containing an engraving of San Jose California and one from my dearest friend Sarah Atwood of a farm. Home sick-wants me to come and see her. Fran Wood has been in Aurora. Spending some time reading my letter and glad of any excuse to go to bed, Mary read me to sleep-awoke in the night by Serenades beautiful___banjo prominently so-
5- A quiet day at home-could Not go to Church. Have just had supper, had bread & butter, tea, cucumber pickles, ripe blackberrie pie, etc. Headache!!!!___as an item of the day-moonshine I put in the same way.
Almost two months have sped since my note taking of general events has been honored with notes-this night I intend to make amends.
7 September- Mary and I drove Father to Auburn-he intending to proceed to the State Fair-In Gen. Wood's parlor we met Mrs. Farrand, formerly Miss Julia Houghtaling. Met Mr. Bark-exquisite as ever-Mrs. Brownell-also had a pleasant chat with her, called at Clough's studio-did not find him in-dropped into Woodruff's and Wall's-called on Ellen Wood, strolled up East Genesee Street, at the Crockery store met Mr. & Mrs. Charles Fitch. S. Morgan called upon us. Left the city at four for home-did not reach home before 9 in the evening.
9- Mary and I drove to Aurora to spend the day-met Sarah in the hall-the same dear girl as of yore-Tom soon came in from a morning call-how changed 3 years and a half had progressed much. We had met but the recognition was instantaneous. I parted with him a light healthy lad, buoyant spirits, full of hope, pulling at the restraints which his mode of life imposed upon him, longing to be in the great world for himself. He went and now we are met again-before me stands a delicate slender & graceful young man of the world, he has come back in feeling a proud and haughty man, yet I fancied that it was not all artificial warmth when he grasped my hand and strolled with my mind a long way into the past-now in the Athens of America as all to him his mind could not content itself in the narrow limits of Aurora unless it be simply a visit-when shall we meet again, I fancy then there will be another change. Lib Smith called-came in after dinner and spent the afternoon ___ started for home-Sarah rode with us -drove back for a rose root after we had set out. I alighted at the former residence of L. Tucker-very dark by time we reached home-found Mr. & Mrs. Bennett.
11-Father returned from the Fair this evening-went thither by way of Sodus bay with a party from Auburn.
21- Father went to Auburn Today-
22- In the afternoon of this day who should drive up but Cousin W. C. Woodworth, A & W., Calvin and May-a Happy surprise. W. C. W. and Evander went to Union Springs and A. E. W. May Lyman and moi went driving too went by Stewarts at the Office received WCW letter-went to Carvers(?) Corners, back to Genoa and home by way of the Indian Fields. ___W and E had not yet returned.
23- after dinner Mary accompanied them home to Trumansburg.
27- A. Sheldon and gent to dinner.
30- Dolly Anna George came-_____

October 1-
After dinner, Lyman and self set out for Elon Sheldon's -called in Auburn at Wallis'-___told us that S. Atwood was to be married -as proof positive showed me a letter-arrived there about 6pm. Laura came home in the evening. M. Bluefield spent the evening-H. in Albany.
2- I came home in the morning went to ride-I drove Laura L., drove Mary home for dinner at 3-went out to see the ____train go by at four-after tea, homeward-called in Auburn into Jemison's and Wallis-a few minutes after our return, Jerome came.
3- L. J. & I tended Friends service-had three or four sermons, saw Rachel, Miss Purdy. Came home by VosHurdle(?)-made it late.
4- Father went to Auburn.
5- Evander went to Auburn
6- L returned home-we received a letter from WC Jacobs inviting us to his wedding which was to take place about an hour before his letter was rec'd-asking me to be bridesmaid-provoking worry that it should have been delayed.
7- Evander promised me to go out today but was not able to go.
8- Father came home from the city.
9- Lib and Ann made us a flying visit-Lib seems as ever-Anna and Robinson came for Georgia and Dolly.
10- L & A returned home. P. Purdy and sister visited us today
14- received a letter from Cousin WA Jacobs-Egbert staid home only 2 days.
16- Called to the store to see New goods.
17- Visited at Mr. Fells. Met Tom Fisher and Jennie M. Searing and sister.
18- Brother E and me made an early start for Aurora. Reached the Aurora House by ___dropped into the Astor-Met Mrs. A.-told the particulars, went back to wait the coming of the boat-met L. Morgan-some 30 couples came with the Monsieur Spencer from Ithaca-a gay party too-The Episcopal Church was full-repaired to the House for refreshments-could hardly get a glimpse of the bride for the crowd-a ___ and a party card of remembrances was all met-Jennie Richmond when she grasped my hand I could Hear tell her name a tide of 2 years rolled aside and then came to __Jennie R. -ah dear girl-3 long years had passed since we had met-but I find you still the same-came home by Sherwood-called at Sherwood's and Tom and Jennie ____it was too.
19- Busy painting-after dinner who should drive up but WC Ward, sister Mary-a pleasant surprise as we were intending to go Friday to the Lake for her.
20- Father returned from Auburn in the afternoon and in the morning WCW left, LL Eugene returned home today from Auburn after an absence of four weeks with the Engineers at Ithica-they took the steamer and came to the bridge-thence to Auburn-it seemed like home once more to have his own dear self within the circle.
25- B. F. Hall-Mayor of Auburn to tea with also W. Fell, Jones and Mills. Miss Congdon and Minerva called. Eugene came home.
27- Just as expectation had turned into doubt, the Fishers and Fells made their appearance __raining down-it was Rachel and Jennie driving for themselves. With a bright wood fire blazing on the irons in one parlor we passed the evening quite nicely, ah yes! It seemed like old times again to be met with the familiar faces of friends.-the more pleasant seem these reunions as they are rare. So unpleasant that they till morning they left at 9 A. M..
29- __________________________________________
30- So unpleasant we relinquished the idea of spending the evening at Mr. Fishers, reluctantly.
31- Lyman, Mary & Myself attended dinner service at Scipio Center-introduced to Miss Hunt and Miss Lydia Cromwell I met for the first time since three years had passed. I wondered to myself that she could know me for most certainly that period could not have passed without a change-saw Miss S. Tracy and others.

November1- Tom Fisher and Lyman Lyon called-chatted awhile and invited us to Fishers to spend the evening-therefore when evening came ML & Me drove to neighbors Fells-the Misses Fell and ourselves stowed away in an Omnibus -we pressed on-wary mid the darkness and mud to Sherwood-arrived in good time. Lyon fetched his sister and we whiled away the evening 'till twelve quite agreeably and oh! The houseward drive is not soon to be forgotten-made the Murdock's Corners by 4 A. M.
2- Election Day in the whole United States of America. Mr. Congdon and Purdy dined with us, Gen Scott beaten
3- Father went to Auburn.
4- Mrs. N. Bennett spent the day.
5- Eugene came home from Genoa tonight.
13- Eugene home again from Genoa tonight.
20-Eugene home again-the Middleton's from Auburn came-very peculiar-more favorably impresses with the Elder.
21- Today the younger had regards of mine for perhaps they were in Symbiosis___
22- Misters Middleton and E. went land looking in the evening-chatted of painting and the Masters in the Art. The Younger Middleton showed considerable familiarity with the art and the Elder in Music.
23- After dinner, the M's returned to the city.
24- Received a paper from Friend Tom F.-
25- Thanksgiving Day-Ladi(?) a one! Two years today I did not spend it so alone! Then I was far away-hundreds of miles from home amid strangers almost-I was sad because I did not hear from home. Accompanied Miss Whipple and others to a Thanksgiving supper-a bright evening-staid till 9-and came home, sadly, today. I sat painting busily upon a face all day long and weary and when night comes-a happy day will be this be in New England- many a friend will be gladdened with the presence of long absent members and a joyous evening will they pass.
26- Well tonight I feel quite used up-written up-eh? Well I've painted all day long, and sewed and written all the evening' till I weary-it seems lonely-very-and I'll put aside my pen and read myself to sleep.

2 December- Spent the evening at Mrs. D. Cannon's.
3- Well this day is an era in my life and I ___ me and look a long way back away down the vista of years that are rolled adown the never returning tide of time. Shadows there be many and some light spots where hope has for a moment left the gilding of her tone. When I was a child I longed to be a woman grown, then I would dress as young ladies did and go in Society, be one of the gay world-as time passed I had many fancies. I wished to study the fine arts-and that wish I have yet- Misses Ellen & Maggie Wood came over and staid 'till Monday night-had a pleasant visit.
4- Eugene came home
6- Welly took Eugene back towards Genoa- Washing Day.
9- Busily painting-Lib Rundell and brother W. spent the day-received a letter from Cornelia Wylie-answered it too.
10- Eugene went back to Genoa.
11- E. came home- a heavy snow storm-how beautiful everything is.
12- Sunday-I've written to Aunt Paulina today and am now posting up matters.
14-M, Evander and myself went over to D. Woods and spent the evening
16-Lyman went to _____returned Saturday.
18-Eugene home
22-Mr & Mrs Moss and Johnny spent the afternoon
24-Cousin Anna & Robinson came
25-Had a Christmas Dinner and a good visit with Cousin Mary-went up to Fishes
29-Robinson brought Dolly and Georgia.
30-Wellington took Evander to Auburn again.
31-going to ____with the wide, wide world-Heaven ___him! Our band of six is again disunited and when will it be united-Heaven only knows-

January 1 A. D. 1853
-Painted in the morning, amused myself with Georgia and almost anything, just at dark when least expected H. Sheldon and Mary came to make the New Year's Eve merry which it could have hardly been without them.
2- Lyman, Mary, S, Sheldon & Mary attended divine service at Scipio Centre.
3- The Sheldon's left for home. Phelps came and practiced surgery.
5- Mr. N. Morgan and Mrs. M with Mrs. Hamilton called on their way to Mrs. Norris funeral-Mr. Grippen and family spent the evening.
7- Concluded to make a working day out of an unlucky Friday while in the midst of it, Miss Diantha Fish called. Hardly out of sight when Will Fisher, Jennie and Mary Abbotson came much to our gratification-although in the midst of the Washing- poor Will he looks miserable-I hope our ____will soon restore him to health. It seemed a long while since we had met yet how very natural to chat with him again. We had a pleasant day-such a reunion as every six months cannot afford.
8- One week since the New Year dawned and yet it seems very much like the old-the same mild, genial atmosphere-like early Spring-nice wheeling as could be asked. A busy morning preparing dinner for expected guests-instead of having the Mayor of our City to dine with us, the Sheriff of the County was our guest. Mr. Fancher appears very much a gentleman. Misses How, Hall, Williams and Russell came from Auburn and Father accompanied them to Genoa. Eugene came home in time to partake of the evening meal. Father, not before ten, his comrades returning to Auburn after that hour of night.
9- Arose late-waded somehow through my morning's work. Grippen, Eshi, Fish and Sawyer dropped in and then I concluded to post up accounts and I have.
15- received a ____from NW saying she would come when I wrote for her. Eugene came home.
17- took Eugene to Scipio Centre-on our way to Auburn. Father, Mother and self saw lots of folks I know in Auburn. _____told me that Lizz Smith of Aurora was to be married the 9th of February-wrote a letter to Neal and and S. put it in the office for me. Coming home we stopped at Scipio Centre-saw ENGINEERS. Mr. G. E. Beardsley and S. Mr. Beardsley came in and chatted with Mother about old times among other sayings that interested one he said that he intended to marry yet and presumed he should marry some girl of 16. I told him I did not doubt it.
18- Mary & I sewed upon our cloaks.
19- Done the same
20- Mrs. Toan and Mrs. Bennett called
21- Busy making carpet. ____at the sound of sleigh bells and ran to the window to see who was going by. The last time I so done I saw Anson and Lib was the cause of the commotion and in a few minutes Mr. Wylie Cousin A. & Libbie were ushered in to our delight. Well, Cousin John was before me-the real was very different from the ideal. Alphonso and William came up and sung for us. Nancy Dill & A. Grippen I met with an amusing incident in shape of my pocket handkerchief.
22- A bustling morning-head full of calculations and works. The program for the day was finally arranged in the following way. Anson, Lib, John and Mol were to go to D Rundells to spend the day and Lyman and myself to Auburn to meet Miss Neal W. The road to Auburn seemed a thousand miles in length. Went Shopping till 3 o'clock then went down to the depot in the Exchange ____-had to wait some time having gone down for the wrong train but at last the Eastern train came puffing and blowing at a furious rate. I was on hand and scanned the passengers as they alighted. I had begun to despair when Neal caught my hand her ___face was before me-we drove to the Exchange. L and I dropped in to Clough's studio or attempted so to do and then left for Venice. We met ___ and inquired for Eugene-was told we would find him at Scipio Centre-called for him-dear fellow-and were soon home-a gay circle we had all met together. Nor had the day been neglected on Mother's part. Dr. Smith and the Misses Sheldon had dined with them.
23- Sunday morning, hallowed day. About noon, Cousins left for home it being indispensable that they should be there and Neal and I read Uncle Tom's Cabin. D. Rundell to dinner with us.
24- Eugene went to the Centre to join his corps of engineers. This week Mol and I made our dresses.

32- Did not attend church.

(no date) visited Anna Robinson, saw Eugene from the house.
6- Feb- went to Quaker Church saw Miss Purdy and others, came home by Fells and staid to dinner.
8- Dedication at Stewarts-all went-Uncle L Ring and C. Tracy & wife came home with them. In the evening L. R. & I went to the service.
9- They again went to Dedication as continuation of same.
13- tended church at Scipio Centre. J. in Sherwood-the returned Californian was there and many others.
14- A tedious morning-concluded to go to Port Byron-Met H. S., stopped at the temperance tavern and was treated to candy. Drove straight through Auburn. Found Lib at home, Cousin J and Anson soon came-a merry evening. L& M kept us awake most of the night.
15- Concluded to go up to Auburn and go through the State Prison-a delightful sleigh ride and a sad walk through the prisons. Returned to cousins in time to dine upon a roast turkey at two and then wiled away a pleasant evening.
16- Spent the morning in snowballing and glorious rides down the hill, the like of which I don't soon expect to have again. After dinner, L and I went to Mr. Kings in the evening attended the panorama in Port Byron-it was of the Mississippi & lost our way in returning to Cousin's and inquired four times. Still up when we returned after 11.
17- After breakfast started for home, stopped in Auburn, reached Venice about four P. M.
20-Attended morning service at Scipio Centre. Anna and Nelson Clark & Jane Cowen came-were here to tea.
21- First-in the midst of washing Mr. Middleton made his appearance. M & I left Neal and Mother to entertain him and continued our washing.
22- A ball at Glen. Lyman, M. N. & Mr. Middleton went-terrible to think of.
23- Mary did not make her appearance again while Mr. M. staid.
24- Judge Hurlburt to dinner with us after which meal Mr. M concluded to wind his way back to Auburn.
27- Had a letter from Eugene.

1st March 1853
-Town Meeting Day-had a fire in the parlor and in the evening we girls had a regular time dancing and chatting &&.
3-N<M & I spent the afternoon at Mrs. Dr. Fordyce. W. came for us and after I was home and safe in bed Father came home with Eugene-had not seen him in so long-had a good will to get up.
5- Mary and Lyman went to Sennett and Centreport-visiting Neal and I kept good company. E. went to Genoa-
6- I did not go to church.
7- Eugene started for Ithica. Mary & Lyman came home. Dr. Hurd was here and A. Morgan to tea.
10- Father took Cousin Cornelia to Auburn to take the cars.
12-H. Toan visited us.
16-painted-finished Georgia.

A copy of the 1851-53 diary resides in the collections of the
Cayuga County NY Historian's Office in Auburn NY.  
Transcribed 2004, by Tanya Lee Warren of Auburn, NY.

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Joshua & Lyman Murdock Home, Front View.   Photo taken about 1935 by Jane Searing

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