Bill Henderson has provided the following transcription of a copy of William Edwards' diary for 1854 that belongs to Gail Northcott of Calgary. Permission to make the diary available to visitors of this web site has been granted by Gail Northcott's brother, Gary Myers. This page may not be reproduced for other than personal use unless permission has been obtained from Gail Northcott or Gary Myers. If you enjoy these diary passages, you may wish to obtain issues of the Chateauguay Valley Historical Society's Journal which include transcriptions of diaries from people who once lived in the area. 
This diary provides wonderful glimpses of like in the region in the mid-nineteenth century. Outside of operating his farm, William Edwards also acted as a land surveyor in the area and he mentions a number of residents of the area for which he provided his service.
William Edwards was from Dundee, Scotland, arriving in the Huntingdon area in 1832. William was born September 18, 1823 and 31 years old when he wrote the diary entries. His wife was Mary Gordon Edwards and she was 23 years old on December 6, 1854.
His parents were 60 and 55 yrs respectively in 1854. Her parents were 65 & 63 respectively in 1854.  Clark was 18 years old in 1854 and most likely Mary Gordon Edwards' brother. Charles and Anna Gordon were 31 & 57 in 1854. Daniel Gordon was 25.

Jan 1, Sunday
At Russeltown, attended church at the "Flatts". Took dinner at Father's with Charles and Anne. Remained at Father's all night.
Mon. 2
Left Father's after breakfast. Went to Russeltown. Charles and Anne took dinner at Mr. Gordon's, engaged in the afternoon shooting at a target.
Tues 3
Went to the corners expecting a letter from W. J. Coffin, Esq. Did not get the letter. Mary and I took dinner at Mr. Fathems. Returned to Russeltown in the eve.
Wed 4
Assisted Mr. John McFee to get up wood. The wind blowing strong from the south which carried off the greater part of the snow. So much so as to leave the road bare and spoil the sleighing.
Thur 5 - A slight frost in the morning. Started for my Father's, met my Mother and accompanied her to the Flatts, when she went to church. Went with Mother to Anne's took dinner after giving Mother a Scotch Convoy to Mr. Gordon's.
Fri 6 - In the morning received a letter from Mr. Coffin instructing for me to act as wood agent for the M & N Y RR Co. Started with Clark and got to Hemmingford at noon. Met J.A. Gordon, had an interview with Mr. Dow. Went to Caughnawaga in the evening. Took down seven cars of wood, unloaded two and left the remainder to cross over the river. Commenced loading at J. Stevenson's.
Sat 7 - Brought down eight cars of wood and unloaded them at the _____Shed, Caughnawaga, three cars from Hemmingford, four from Creighton's and one from Browns.
Sun 8 - At Caughnawaga took a Ramble through the village, spent the greater part of the forenoon at the Engine House, seeing the process of cleaning out an engine. The afternoon occupied in reading, a very lonesome place, and a cold day.
Mon 9 - Started from Caughnawaga at 8 O'clock 20 minutes, brought down eight cars of wood, one for the steamboat, unloaded the remainder at the Tower Shed, 4 cars from Hemmingford, the remainder from Johnson's. Got in at eight o'clock.
Tues 10 - A very stormy day started with the train, but there being something wrong with the engine (the flower head broken) which made it impossible to proceed. We had to return. The steamboat got aground during the storm in the morning. In the afternoon assisted in trying to get her off but without success.
Wed 11 - By Mr. Nelson's orders collected the men in the morning to assist in getting off the steamboat. Kept them employed until noon, assisted in trying to get off the boat in the afternoon but without getting her to move.
Thur 12 - Four of the men at work at the steamboat got orders from Mr. Nelson to take men and go to Hemmingford and load wood, only got three who worked all night in very heavy rain, loaded 3 cars for which I allowed them a days pay each.
Fri 13 - Four men assisting at the steamboat went up with the Passenger train along with 3 men to load wood an Hemmingford, sent down four cars of wood with the freight train, went to Caughnawaga with the last train from the south, returned with the freight train to Hemmingford.
Sat 14 - Sent down five and one half cars of wood and one half cars of boards for repairing the steam boat with the freight train. Loaded four cars and the men carried wood to the track. Went to Russeltown in the evening.
Sun 15 - At Russeltown until about three o'clock when it commenced snowing and in fear of a storm started for Hemmingford at which arrived in the evening.
Mon 16 - At nine o'clock 45 minutes, the engine got to Hemmingford Station, loaded seven cars of wood, hauled them to Caughnawaga unloaded all at the tower shed, ten men at work, the wood having to be carried about 40 feet.
Tues 17 - Brought six cars of wood from Johnson's station, unloaded them at the tower shed, twelve men at work, there is a great deal of time lost carrying wood from the yard to the track.
Wed 18 - Hauled six cars of wood from Johnson's Station to Caughnawaga, unloaded four cars at Upper shed, one at the Water House and one at the Engine House. 12 men at work, got to Caughnawaga at eight o'clock
Thur 19 - Hauled six cars of wood to Caughnawaga, three from near the province line, one from Hemmingford Station and two from Johnson's, unloaded two at upper shed, two at Tower Shed and left 2 on the cars.
Fri. 20 - Hauled six cars of wood from Johnson's Station to Caughnawaga, unloaded one car at the upper shed and left five for the use of the steamboat and to cross the river.
Sat 21 - Detained at St Isidore until 10 o'clock by the freight train - snowstorm. Advised by Mr. Dow to follow the passenger train. Hauled four cars of wood from Johnson's, unloaded two at Caughnawaga, left 2 for steamboat or to cross the river.
Sat 22 - At Caughnawaga a very cold day rambled down through the village to the point the remainder of the time reading.
Mon 23 - Hauled four cars of wood from Johnson's to Caughnawaga - detained a t St. Remi Station 1 and 1/2 hours waiting for the freight train in the evening. Left 2 cars for the steamboat or to cross the river, unloaded 2 cars at the tower shed.
Tues 24 - Detained at St. Remi in the morning until 10 o'clock. Hauled 4 cars of wood from Johnson's to Caughnawaga, unloaded at upper shed. Detained at St. Isidore 1 1/2 hrs in the evening by the freight train. A very stormy day.
Wed 25 - Did not haul any wood owing to it being too great a distance from the track and the railroad being very much drifted. Did not take out the engine, went home in the afternoon, Emma being very sick. Got a ride with Clark who has been down with James (Keith) Gordon Jr.
Thus 26 The engine in the house all day repairing. Attended an auction at Reed Millers. Made a bargain with Charles Collson for 10 or 15 cords of wood at 3/6 per cord. Got back to Mr. Gordon's in the evening. Snow falling throughout the day
Fri 27 - The engine in the forenoon. Hauling snow in the afternoon. Took 4 cars to St Remi and three to Johnson's. Brought two cars of rails from Johnson's to Caughnawaga, got to Hemmingford in the morning and Caughnawaga by the freight train.
Sat 28 - Hauled five cars of wood from Johnson's, unloaded 2 at St. Remi, left the other 3 on the cars at Caughnawaga for the steamboat or to cross the river.
Sun 29 - At Caughnawaga went down through the village in the afternoon. Saw the Indians trotting horses and playing ball. A raw cold day with strong east wind.
Mon 30 - Hauled five cars of wood three from Johnson's and two from near the line north of Hemmingford Station, unloaded 3 at the tower shed and left two for the steamboat or to cross the river.
Tues 31 - Hauled eight cars of wood from and near Johnson's Station. Unloaded 4 cars at St. Remi Station and 4 at tower shed Caughnawaga.

Feb 1 - Wed - Hauled eight cars of wood from and near Johnson's station to Caughnawaga, left all on the cars for the steamboat or to cross the river.
Thurs 2 - The engine hauling snow from the side tracks at Caughnawaga went to Montreal in the morning to gain information about the wood contract. Enquired of Mr. Nelson who got in a passion and said that I had no business with the contract. Went up to Hemmingford to measure wood with the passenger train.
Fri 3 - Hauled five cars of wood and one of rails from Johnson's. Unloaded three cars at the lower shed, left the other two for the steam or to cross the river.
Sat 4 - In the morning got up as far as Johnson's. Discovered a tier of the engine trucks broken. Thought it was not best to haul wood. Drew some poles on one car from the swamp south of La Pigeonierre for an Indian, one car of wood by the freight went to Russeltown in the evening. Got there at 11 O'clock.
Sun 6 - At Russeltown all day. Attended church in the morning, spent the afternoon at Mr. John McFee's.
Mon 7 - Left Russeltown early, walked to Orr's and got a chance with Mr. G. Fiddis the remainder of the road. Measured wood at Hemmingford, went to the Province Line to measure wood but the parties had not got it all hauled. Lodged at Hemmingford.
Tues 8 - Left Hemmingford by the first train for Caughnawaga, saw Mr. Nelson who gave me orders to discharge my men and give them their time and to take my own time to the office and get my pay. After telling him that the company engaged me and not him he went off ordering me to get my men and clear out the slip which I did not do. Loitered about Caughnawaga the rest of the day.
Wed 9 - Went to Johnson's Station by the passenger train to look after the wood delivering on the line. In the afternoon got instructions from Mr. Nelson to haul saw logs from LaPigionierre to Moore's Junction and wood to Caughnawaga next day.
Thurs 10 - Hauled four cars of wood to Moore's, four of wood from Johnson's a ton of freight from St Remi to Caughnawaga unloaded one car of wood at the Engine house the rest for the steamboat or to cross the river.
Fr 11 - hauled five cars of wood to Moore's, two cars of boards from Hemmingford and four cars of wood from Johnson's to Caughnawaga, the wood left on the cars for the steamboat and to cross the river.
Sat 11 - Hauled six cars of logs to Johnson's and five to them to Moore's, two cars of boards from Hemmingford and two of rails from Johnson's to Caughnawaga. Did not haul wood as there was none drawn up at the side track
Sun 12 - At Caughnawaga.
Mon 13 - Hauled three loads of logs to Moore's, 4 cars of lumber from Hemmingford, 3 of wood from Creighton's and 2 of wood from Johnson's to Caughnawaga, left them on the cars for the steamboat to cross the river.
Tues 14 - Hauled three cars of logs to Moore's Junction and five cars of rails from Johnson's to Caughnawaga. No cars for hauling wood.
Wed 15 - Snow storm last night, followed the passenger train hauled five cars of logs to Moore's and one car of lumber from Hemmingford to Caughnawaga.
Thurs 16 - Hauled one car of freight from Caughnawaga all three of logs from LaPigionierre to Moore's. Hauled the passenger train from Johnson's to Moore's Junction and back.
Fri 17 - Hauled three cars of logs to Moore's Junction, and two of wood from Johnson's to Caughnawaga, also one of lumber from Hemmingford. Got in at 1/2 past 2 O'clock. The men worked on an extra quarter of a day at the turntable.
Sat 18 - Hauled three cars of logs to Moore's Junction and one of wood from Johnson's to Caughnawaga. Went home in the afternoon. Five men at work clearing snow from under the turntable.
Sun 19 - Left Russeltown about noon and went with Mary to my Father's. Attended church in the evening.
Mon 20- - Left my Father's and got to Hemmingford early in the day. Hauled five cars of logs to Moore's three of lumber from Hemmingford and two of wood from Johnson's to Caughnawaga.
Tues 21 - Hauled three cars of logs to Moore's three of lumber from Hemmingford, two cars of wood from Johnson's and one of wood from Creighton's to Caughnawaga.
Wed 22 - Hauled six cars of logs from LaPigionierre to Moore's , one of stones from Hemmingford, two of wood from Johnson's and one of wood collected along the line to Caughnawaga
Thurs 23 - A very heavy snowstorm, the men dug snow in the forenoon, in the afternoon the engine went to Moore's along with the passenger engine to assist in clearing out the rail road track.
Fri 24 - The engine and men were engaged all day hauling and digging snow at Caughnawaga side tracks.
Sat 25 - Hauled 4 cars of logs to Moore's, 3 cars of lumber from Hemmingford, 1 of freight and 2 of wood from Johnson's to Caughnawaga. Went to Russeltown in the afternoon.
Sun 26 - Left Russeltown in the afternoon and got to the Corners in the evening. Snow commenced falling in the afternoon and continued throughout the night.
Mon 27 - Measured wood on the line from Hemmingford Station to Johnson's. Went to Caughnawaga by the Express, met the Montreal & New York at the south end of the Indian Woods, at sunset. The men all engaged shoveling snow.
Tues 28 - Brought down the stockholders to the annual meeting. Detained three hours by the engine sticking in the snow sent to Caughnawaga for the Montreal to haul her out in the afternoon. Drew snow with the engine.

March
Wed 1 - Hauled snow all day from the yard at Caughnawaga in the Evening brought down for cars of lumber form Hemmingford and one of freight from Johnson's to Caughnawaga. The engine broke on this trip and had to be laid up for repair
Thurs 2 - Hauled 7 cars of logs to Moore's Junction, 2 cars of lumber from Hemmingford 2 of wood from Johnson's with the New York to Caughnawaga
Fri 3 - Hauled 6 cars of logs to Moore's Junction and of wood from Johnson's to Caughnawaga with the Plattsburgh a little the fastest riding ever I had on a rail road.
Sat 4 - Loaded one car at Johnson's with 2 men, of wood, four men assisting to get wood over the river in the Steamer Champlain, went to Russeltown in the evening.
Sun 5 - At Russeltown all day, went to church at the Flatts
Mon 6 - Measured wood at Hemmingford Station and Brownlees, loaded 2 cars of wood at Johnson's and got them brought down with the Passenger Engine to Caughnawaga unloaded the wood on the wharf to be taken across by the Champlain Steamboat. The superintendent would not let the Moore's haul logs.
Tues 7 - Measured wood at Hemmingford in the evening hauled 10 box cars to Moore's Junction for the Champlain and St Lawrence R.R. Co. also 1 car of wood from Johnson's to Caughnawaga with the New York.
Wed 8 - Went to Moore's Junction with the Passenger train. Hauled 5 box cars for the S & St. L. R.R. Co, had one man as brakeman, snowing very fast in the evening , thawing.
Tue 9 - Hauled 6 cars of logs to Moore's Junction, 4 cars of flour from Moore's and 4 of lumber from Hemmingford to Caughnawaga with the Montreal. The men were all engaged shoveling snow. Still thawing very fast
Fri 10 - Rainy day. Hauled 4 cars from Brownlees and one from Johnson's. Unloaded 2 cars at St Remi and the other 4 under the shed on the wharf. Got orders from Messrs Scriver and Nelson to go to Montreal as a witness on a law suit between Co. and Roy
Sat 11 - Went to Montreal by the first train. Saw the lawyer who wanted me to examine the place with one or two others and return on Monday. Got back to Caughnawaga in the evening. Hauled 5 cars of logs to Moore's, 2 of wood to St Remi and 2 to Caughnawaga, unloaded at the shed on the wharf. A slight frost last night but the snow melting very fast with the heat of the sun.
Sun 12 - At Caughnawaga, warm weather, snow going off very fast. Engaged the great part of the day writing, took a ramble down through the village in the evening. Had a call from Mr. Nesbitt, delivered up all the tickets to him that were in the desk
Mon 13 - Went with Dr. Williams and Examiner Taussvine Roys farm and then to Montreal in the last train. Did not give evidence as the case was adjourned until next term went to the theatre in the evening. Hauled 7 cars of logs to Moore's and 4 cars of wood from Johnson's to Caughnawaga. The steamboat commenced carrying over cars, left the wood on the cars for the boat or to cross the river
Tues 14 - Left Montreal by the 1/2 past 8'oclock train for Caughnawaga, went up the line by the Passenger train to Johnson's, hauled 2 cars of freight and the Sarehegan from Caughnawaga & 3 cars of logs from LaPigionierre to Moore's and 3 cars of freight from Moore's, 1 of lumber from Hemmingford, 2 of rails and 2 of wood from Johnson's, one of poles from Savages and 2 of rails from LaPigionierre to Caughnawaga.
Wed 15 - The engine had to haul the passenger train. Measured wood from Creighton's to Johnson's in the evening. The engine hauled two cars of freight from Caughnawaga and 5 of saw logs from LaPigionierre to Moore's. One car of lumber from Hemmingford to Pigeonierre and 1 of lumber from Hemmingford and three of rails from Pigeonierre to Caughnawaga. Very heavy thunder in the evening.
Thurs 16 The engine hauled the passenger train to Moore's and back. Measured wood from Hemmingford to Moore's junction. The St Remi hauled freight to the way stations
Fri 17 Hauled 2 cars of logs from Johnson's to Moore's and 1 box car from Moore's to Hem. 4 cars of Brownlees wood and one of Bells. One car of rails from Johnson's and 2 of rails from LaPigeonierre to Caughnawaga. Measured wood at Hemmingford and Johnson's.
Sat 18 - Hauled 5 cars to Moore's and 2 to Hemmingford, 5 of them from LaPigionerre and 2 from Johnson's. got to Hemingford before the passenger train was due owing to very heavy wind, the steamboat did not cross the river until 1/2 past 2'oclock, did not get any wood loaded. Left Hemmingford at 5 O'clock.. Hauled 2 cars of rails from Johnson's to Caughnawaga. Went to Russeltown in the evening.
Sun 19 - In Russeltown all day. Called on Chas. And took tea at J. McFee's.
Mon 20 - Hauled 7 cars of logs from La Pigeonierre, 2 from Johnson's and 2 left at Hemmingford. On Sat to Moore's, the car of wood from Kingsborough's, 1 from Brownlees and 1 from Bell's, also 2 of Telegraph poles from Johnson's to Caughnawaga, got back from Russeltown in the morning, went with the passenger train from Hemmingford to Johnson's. Cold day.
Tues 21 - Hauled 1 car of way freight and 4 of freight from Caughnawaga & 2 of logs from Johnson's to Moore's, loaded 2 cars of wood at Browlees, the engine was sent to St Lambert's for repairs, self and men came from Moore's to Caughnawaga by the passenger train. A cold clear day. The passenger engine came to a standstill above the St Remi until they could get up steam.
Wed 22 - Hauled 4 platform cars to LaPigionierre, had to return to Caughnawaga, the engine wanted repairing. 1 car of stoves from St. Remi to Caughnawaga, started at 2 o'clock with 3 cars for Hemmingford, met the passenger train at St. Isidore with 5 cars of rails from Johnson's and 1 of stones from Hemmingford. Hauled 4 cars of lumber and 2 of wood from Hemmingford and 1 of freight from St. Remi to Caughnawaga. A calm, cold day. I was troubled with severe headache after dinner.
Thurs 23 - Hauled 1 car of freight to St Remi, 3 cars of logs from Johnson's to Moore's, 2 cars of freight from Moore's of wood from Brownlees, 3 of rails from Johnson's and one of wood from Creighton's. Measure wood for O'Brien. A stormy, disagreeable day.
Fri 24 - Hauled 2 cars of logs from LaPigionierre and 3 from Johnson's to Moore's. 3 cars of board from Hemmingford, one of wood from Brownlees, three of rails from Johnson's and 2 of wood from Corcorron's to Caughnawaga. The passenger train hauled 3 cars of boards from Hemmingford to Caughnawaga. Saw my Father on his way from Montreal. Strong wind, snow commenced falling in the evening.
Sat 25 - Hauled 1 car of freight from Caughnawaga to St. Remi, 1 1/2 cars of logs from LaPigionierre to Johnson's (left the 1/2 car) and 2 cars of logs from Johnson's to Moore's. Hauled 1 P&M. boxcar of freight from Moore's and 3 M & NY of rails to Caughnawaga. This being a holiday the men did not work, got Mr. Fathem's horse and went to Russeltown in the evening. High wind and very cold, some small drifts on the road.
Sun 26 - At Russeltown all day. Clark and Mrs. Gordon went to see Mrs. Main who was very sick yesterday. Clark returned today and left his Mother. Very cold and snow flying in all directions.
Mon 27 - The R.R. tracks at Caughnawaga drifted over with snow from two to six feet deep. The engine did not go out in the morning until the passenger train time, when it was joined on behind the passenger engine . I went to Moore's, did not get back to Hemingford until 4 O'clock. Hauled 1 car of freight from Hemmingford, two of rails from Johnson's and one of rails from LaPigionierre to Caughnawaga. Had not time to load wood. Got back to Hemmingford in the morning.
Tues 28 - Hauled 6 cars of logs from Johnson's to Moore's. 1 car of freight from Moore's, one car of wood from Quinn's, two of rails from Johnson and three of wood from Corcoran's to Caughnawaga. A cold day, snow drifting in the track, one man oiling cars and one acting as fireman on the Caughnawaga from Moore's. Switching one and one half hours in the evening at Caughnawaga.
Wed 29 - With the Canada, hauled one car of freight from Caughnawaga to St Remi, five of logs from Johnson's to Moore's, 3 cars of rails and one of wood from Johnson's, one car of wood from bells and 2 from Corcoran's to Caughnawaga. Measured wood from Fathom & Brown. A clam day with very severe frost. I have a very bad cold and sore throat.
Thurs 30 Hauled a car of freight from St. Remi & Hemmingford, 3 cars of logs from Johnson's to Moore's, one car of wood from Flynn cut, one car from Johnson's with stones, 3 of wood from Bells to Caughnawaga, also 1 one car with boards for Hemmingford to LaPigionierre and 1 car of wood from Breaulto to St. Remi. A pleasant day, snow melting by the sun. my cold is no better and some difficulty in swallowing.
Fri 31 - Hauled freight to Hemmingford 4 cars of logs from Johnson's to Moore's, one of freight from Moore's, 2 of wood from Quinn, and 5 of wood from Creighton to Caughnawaga, examined fence gates at Hughes's, cut and measured wood at Hemmingford. A beautiful day with slight squalls of snow. My cold is a little better. Settled all my board bills on the line up to this date.

April
Sat 1 - Attended at the court house in Montreal to give evidence in a case between the R.R. Co. & Toussaint Roy, was not called on, returned to Caughnawaga in the evening. The engine and men were employed all day by Messers Bowie and Melvine loading at Bells and Melvine. Hauled down 10 cars loaded with rails and pickets got to Caughnawaga at 9:PM. A strong south wind, snow thawing very fast.
Sun 2 - At Caughnawaga all day and a very lonesome place it is. Went down to the engine house in the morning and back in the house the rest of the day. Hard frost in the morning, milder in the middle of the day when the sun shone, in the evening quite cold and clear.
Mon 3 - The engine and men were employed all day loading rails & pickets for Messrs Bowie and Melvine, with the exception of hauling 9 cars of logs from Johnson's to Moore's. hauled 5 cars of rails from Johnson's and two of rails from LaPigionierre, also one car of freight from St. Remi to Caughnawaga. Attended at the court house in Montreal and gave evidence in a case between the R.R. Co. & Roy. Returned to Caughnawaga in the evening. Snow going off with the sun. cold in the evening.
Tues 4 - hauled one car of poles from Hemmingford for the crib at Lachine, one of wood from Brownlees and four of wood from Orr's South of Johnson's to Caughnawaga. Measured wood at Johnson's and on the line from that to Hemmingford in the forenoon, in the afternoon measured all the wood that was prepared from Hemmingford to the Province line. Snow thawing fast by the heat of the sun.
Wed 5 - Slept at Hemmingford last night. In the morning received a letter from Mr. Dow with instructions to haul stones, hauled 1 car of poles for tribe at Lachine, 4 cars of stones from Odell's ledge and 2 of lumber from St. Remi. Measured wood on the line from Hemmingford to Johnson's. Got orders from the President to get down wood to Caughnawaga as fast as possible. A very warm day for the season.
Thurs 6 - Hauled freight to St. Remi and Johnson's, 1 car of stones from Odell's, 1 of stones from Burns, one of wood from Fathems, four of wood from Creighton's and 1 of Hog poles from St. Isidore. Measured wood on the line from Creighton's to Johnson's, saw Merritt Gordon on his way to Montreal, who told me all were well at home. Told the President yesterday that I would finish this week. Very warm day, heavy rain in the evening.
Fri 7 - Hauled 1 car of stones from Hemmingford, 1 of wood from Brownlees and 5 of wood from Johnson's to Caughnawaga. Went to Montreal by the passenger train. Left my book in the office and gave them notice that I was to quit tomorrow. Saw Merritt and James in Montreal, spent the evening with them at Mr. Lloyd's. frost in the morning, quite warm throughout the day.
Sat 8 - Left Montreal in the morning in company with Merritt and John Perry, got my compass at Prices and brought it as far as Hemmingford Station. Saw the president who wished me to come back in the course of 8 or 10 days to measure the remainder of the wood on the line of R.R. Got to Russeltown in the evening, frost in the morning, warm throughout the day, frequent showers of snow and rain. Evening - heard frogs for the first time this evening. Hard frost for the season and clear warm day.
Sun 9 - Did not go to church, being tired and the roads very bad. A light fall of snow last night. Cloudy and dull all day. at J. McFee's in afternoon.
Mon 10 - A light fall of snow last night which went off in the afternoon. Cloudy and slight showers of rain until noon in the afternoon. Cold and disagreeable. I was employed reading the greater part of the day.
Tues 11 - A very hard frost last night, clear and pleasant all day a beautiful time for making sugar. Reading the Siege of Vienna in the forenoon. In the afternoon went with John McFee in his double wagon to St. Jean Chrystostone. Road very bad, the Flatts overflowed near _______. Returned in the evening.
Wed 12 - After breakfast went up through the woods to Wm O'Neil's who was busy sawing sugared off in the house. After dinner went to my Father's, took a walk to the sawmill and through the pastures. Saw the horses and sheep, after supper came across the woods again. Got back at dark. A good sap day and quite warm.
Thurs 13 - Went up to Reed Miller's in the morning, looked over matters and things and assisted him to make sugar. Saw John & D. McNaughton returning from Hinchinbrook. After dinner called on Daniel Gordon and with him spent the afternoon. Returned home in the evening.
Fri 14 - In the morning called on Anne who I found ready to go to St. J.C's (chrysostone) with George, got some articles at the Flatts and got back at noon. In the afternoon cleaned my rifle which had got very rusty having been laid aside all winter. Spent the evening at John McFee's. weather the same as yesterday. Sap running in the afternoon.
Sat 15 - in the morning, went to see Burk's Establishment, but turned back before getting there. In the afternoon took a walk with Malcolm McFee up through McCourts, Balls, & Merritt's sugar works. Sap running very fast. Frost at night and clear pleasant and agreeable throughout the day. Spent the evening at J. McFee's.
Sun 16 - cold in the morning, went to church at Russeltown Flatts, saw my Mother who came up as far as Anne's in the afternoon. Saw D. McFee at Johns where I spent the P.M.
Mon 17 - Left very early and got to Hemmingford at 1/2 past 8 O'clock. Measured wood on the R.R. Line from Hemmingford to Flynn's Cut in Moore's. In the evening wrote receipts in the store and left them with Hiram Scriver. Hard frost at night clear and pleasant through the day.
Tues 18 - Measured wood from Hemmingford to Bells. Went back to Hemmingford in the wood engine. Took dinner at Scriver's, went to Montreal by the passenger train, put off at the Exchange Coffee House. Met James Gordon, who was going to Russeltown next day. Went to the Ball Alley in the evening, weather same as yesterday.
Wed 19 - In the morning, made purchases for the house, called at the R.R. office and left my book containing the measurements of wood, received my pay for March. Left Montreal by the train with J. A. Gordon, detained by the ice at Lachine. Got to Hemmingford at 10 O'clock, hired a wagon to go as far as Orr's, walked the remainder of the way to D. Gordon's where I found Mary had removed. Slept at D. Gordon's. J. ????
Thurs 20 - When to St. Jean Chrysostome to get a deed of my place from Mr. Miller. Took dinner at Mr. Gordon's and got back to Daniels in the evening. Left the deed to be sent to registry office by the notary, weather the same as on tues. Slept at Daniel's. Ploughing commenced by McCarthy, the first I have seen.
Fri 21 - In the morning arranged things in the house, left with Mr. Millar, J.A.G. & Miss Manning for Hemmingford. Bought a stove and other small articles and got back at 11 PM. The engine St. Remi and Passenger cars were seized by the sheriff at Moore's. J.A. G. was detained at Hemmingford until 4 o'clock. Slept at Daniels. Freezing tonight, warm all day.
Sat 22 - Made a commencement at housekeeping, had things set to rights so that we had dinner by noon. Chopped wood for the stove, had a visit from Mr. & Mrs. Gordon and Merritt. Measured 10 cords of wood got out by Mr. Colson and paid him, called on Jas. Manning, who is very sick. Weather same as yesterday.
Sun 23 - went to church with Mr. Miller at Russeltown. Heard Mr. Campbell. Had a call from John Perry, D. Parkham, Nelson Manning and Clark. A beautiful day but freezing at night.
Mon 24 - Attended a sale at A Sawingatis, bought two cows for J.A.G. also a box stove and bed for self. Could not drive the cows home because it was late before the sale was finished. Got home about 10 o'clock. A light frost last night, beautiful day. Dinner at Mr. Wingatis, Tea at Mr. Sweet's.
Tues - 25 - Employed gathering stones, repairing fences and C. dropped a stitch in my back which made it very disagreeable work gathering stones. Purchased a table and bedstead of Mr. Miller. Had a call in the P.M. from Mr. & Mrs. DG. A beautiful day, the pastures look green, appearance of rain in the evening.
Wed 26 - in the morning sent two boys after the cows purchased last Monday. Commenced raining when they got to Merritt's they returned. Cut wood in the forenoon, in the afternoon had a call from Mr. & Mrs. M.F. Took tea at Daniel's with them . Raining at intervals all day, quite warm. Mr. Manning spent the evening with us.
Thurs 27 - Rain in the morning, snow commenced at 8:AM and continued throughout the day. It fell about four inches besides what melted. Daniel went after the cows and got home in the evening. Cut a little wood and blistered my hands.
Fri 28 - got up early and had breakfast by 1/2 past 5 with the intention of drawing a line for Mr. Montgomery, but it commenced snowing again at 5 o'clock and continued until the middle of the afternoon. Snow about 8 inches deep, did nothing the remainder of the day.
Sat 29 - Raining when we got up which continued all day. Clark & M. McGilton spent the afternoon with us and could not get away owing to the rain until near night. Cut firewood and loitered about the house and foundry. Plenty of snow on the ground yet.
Sun 30 - A beautiful day, the sun shining clear and the snow all gone before night. Mr. Gordon sent Mathew up with the horse and wagon for us to go down to his place. Saw Charles and Anna. Got home about six in the evening. A few flying showers through the day but very warm. Grass looking green after the snow
May
Mon 1 - rain in the forenoon in the afternoon clear and pleasant, gathered stones in the morning. In the afternoon dug stones on the place that I had cleared and it looked worse than when I began.
Tues 2 - warm and clear weather with light showers occasionally. Employed in digging stones in the forenoon, in the afternoon drew stones with Daniel's oxen until tea time. Built a portion of stone wall on the east side of the garden. Had a call from Anna and the Perham's
Wed 3 - Ploughed the garden part with the assistance of Mr. Miller and his horses, turned up more stones to the surface than was there when I commenced drawing. Built stone wall in the evening. Transplanted rhubarb roots that I got from Mr. Sweet. A beautiful
warm day.
Thurs 4 - Started early to draw a line in the west part of Russeltown, the parties were preengaged so that we could not commence before tomorrow, had my boot mended and got home a little afternoon. Transplanted white and black currants and English gooseberries bushes. Mary planted flowers a warm clear day
Fri 5 - Drew lines on lots No. 1 & 2 in the second range of Russeltown, saw snow two feet deep in one place in the woods, a very warm pleasant day. A light shower at noon. Got home at tea time, very tired and foot sore Was at the south west angle of the county of Beauharnois for the first time.
Sat 6 - A very stormy cold blowing day with occasional showers of snow. Had a call from Richard Sweet at noon. Wrote the original of the survey done yesterday, went up to the lines with Mr. Miller, had part of a game of ball at "Youngs" got home at tea time. Very cold
Sun 7 - the cold weather continues but in a worse from, the ice was an inch thick on still water this morning wind blew a perfect hurricane and continued until near sundown. Called on Daniel & Nelson, had a call from Clark, spent the greater part of the day reading, heard May repeat Christ's Sermon on the Mount
Mon 8 - started after breakfast for the other side of the hill. Called at Wm O'Neil's. Got dinner at my Father's who is to send them over day after tomorrow. Got home at 5 o'clock tired after my week. Mary and the Millers visited at her Father's and at J McFee's. Cold wind but warmer than the past days.
Tues 9 - In the afternoon, washed all the apple and plum trees with weak lye for the purpose of killing the vermin who were eating the buds. In the afternoon got seventeen plum trees from James McGill, which I transplanted around the stonewall, the first very warm day of the season. I was very tired after my days work.
Wed 10 - Commenced preparing the ground for a garden, found it very stoney just under the surface, dug a piece over with the pick, twelve by fourteen feet from which I got about loads of stones. John Head brought over the potatoes from my Father's. Took tea at Mr. Miller's. a very warm day. A light rain from three until six
Thurs 11 - Sowed two beds of onions, one of lettuce and tomatoes and one of beans and red pepper, partially prepared the next tier of beds, after dinner went to Young's: to see the Seigniore. Could not pay him my portion without paying for the whole lot. Went to the _______________to see cows, did not buy them. Got home at dark, a warm beautiful day.
May 12 - Planted potatoes, onion and mush and watermelons, also about a bushel of potatoes, a beautiful warm day, the Maple Trees beginning to look green, grass so far advanced that cattle can live without hay.
Sat 13 - In the morning made a handle for a shovel, dug over a square for squashes and peas, planted them in the afternoon and cut wood in the evening, watered the seeds planted. The warmest day we've had in the season. Mary Allen got back from visiting her Father in the afternoon.
Sun 14 - At and about home all day. Gathered a mess of greens, the first in the season (cow slops) or colibage) strong wind a beautiful warm day.
Mon 15 - Intended starting to Hemmingford Corners in the morning but the day being warm I waited until tomorrow to ride with Mr. Manning. Corrected my chains, worked in the garden and carried 20 rails for fencing west of the board fence. A light shower last night.
Tues 16 - Left home about 9 o'clock with J & A Manning, got to Hemmingford at 3PM. After dinner measured wood from the _____to the Province Line for Messers Forsburgh Dennison & Ringsborough. A warm day, beautiful day. Saw Daniel Ryan planting corn and others preparing their land for it. Slept at Sriver's
Wed 17 - Started at six with the train for Johnson's. after breakfast measured wood from there to near the north side of Hughe's swamp for Messers Doyle, Bell, McGill and Connell. Got dinner at ell's and then walked back to Hemmingford. My feet got very much blistered, so much so that I could scarcely walk. A very strong south wind, fire running and doing much damage. Warm and clear.
Thurs 18 - Started at six for Montreal, arrived at nine, after setting the wood measured last night down in the book which I had left at the R.R. office. Went to Trish's after dinner. Rambled downtown, called at Mack's, met Rutherford, left Montreal at six, arrived 1/2 past 8. Rain commenced early and continued until 4PM. Clear in the evening. Slept at Sriver's.
Fri 19 - Started from Sriver's at 4 o'clock, got to Sweet's before breakfast. Picked up my harness and other traps and borrowed old gray to draw my wagon up as far as Father's sent Gray back with C. Byers, left the wagon at Father's to be sent over tomorrow evening. Walked home after dinner. Took tea at Mr. Miller's. Mary visited at Mr. Regg's. did not get home until midnight. M. Allen went to Mrs. Gordon's.
Sat 20 - Done hardly anything in the forenoon. After dinner went to Moses Greer's auction. Purchased a few trifles for one dollar, came home about five. Found cousin Adam Gordon, who had come from New York. Chatted with him until after supper. Hoed the potatoes, onions. Weather same as yesterday. Spent the evening pleasantly with Adam.
Sun 21 - Had a call from Mr. & Mrs. J. McFee, brother George and John who brought over my horse and wagon. Adam left with them with the intention of going to Father's. We expected Mother but being unwell, she could not come. A cloudy day. Rain in the evening. Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Gordon over in the evening.
Mon 22 - Drew stones off the garden with Mr. Wrights team. In the afternoon went to Jamestown. In the morning engaged Louis Jenneau. After tea drove to Mr. Burns with James Manning. Made purchases to the amount of 35. got home at midnight. A clear day. Wind from the west, cold in the evening.
Tues 23 - Started very early for Hinchinbrook. Drew a line to divide the east half of Lot No. 41, 2nd range, between Wm. Hanney and Andrew Tracey, only got it through the first time. Went home in the evening. A beautiful warm day. The mosquitoes biting so as to be disagreeable.
Wed 24 - In the morning made out the Process verbal of yesterday's survey. Left home at 10 o'clock. Finished the line commenced yesterday. Hanney would not sign the Process Verbal for fear he would not get land on the west side of his lot from McMullen. A clear warm day. Got home in the evening.
Thurs 25 - Every appearance of rain in the morning. Got to Hinchinbrook at 8:00 when it commenced raining and continued throughout the day. Got home in the evening. Had Mr. Wright's team yesterday, hauling stones.
Fri 26 - Left home at half past six and straightened the line between lots No. 43 & 44, 2nd range. Hinchinbrook got the line finished at 4 P.M. assisted Mr. Oliver to plant corn the remainder of the day. Saw this afternoon an eclipse of the sun. it was the first I remember ever seeing. Lodged at Oliver's. A clear warm day after yesterday's rain.
Sat 27 - Started from Oliver's at 5AM for the Gore, reestablished the old line between Lot No. 5 & 6 in the 8th Range. Hichinbrook got through at 7PM and got home just after dark. Found A. Gordon who had come over yesterday afternoon. Heard Mary had been at work in the garden. A beautiful day, flies biting very bad.
Sun 28 - Adam went to church at the Flatts and returned in the evening. Had a call from Mr. & Mrs. M. Gordon & Mr. & Mrs. D. Gordon and Clark. Expected my mother. She did not come, her foot paining her very much. A beautiful day, cloudy in the afternoon.
Mon 29 - Adam took horse and wagon to the Summit for his luggage and got back at noon. Assisted me to plough with Mr. Miller's team until tea, after which he went over to Father's. Mr. Miller drove his horses about an hour to plough in the morning. I could not get along alone amongst the trees. Planted two bushels of potatoes after tea. A very warm day but a light wind.
Tues May 30 - in the morning assisted Mr. Miller to pack up his goods and chattels, sold him my rifle for 84/ and took my pay in odds and ends. After dinner had Mr. Miller's team and with the assistance of Clark and Adam got everything brought over, stove & bed stead set up and things in general set in order before tea. Adam went down to Anna's in the evening. A beautiful day. Cool in the evening
May 31 - A white frost on the ground this morning which froze some of our cucumbers and melon vines. Had Mr. Wright's team ploughing until 3 o'clock, lent Mr. Manning 4 loads of manure, planted three rows of potatoes onions that I got from Mr. Miller, prepared ground for carrots, went to Merritt's with Daniel & Mary. Mrs. D returned with her Mother in the evening, covered all the vines, clear day but quite cold.
June
Thur 1 - A light frost which did no harm around here. Planted 2 1/2 bu of potatoes that I got from Mr. Miller and 1/2 bu. of red potatoes. Felt very tired. A beautiful day warm and clear.
Fri 2 - Planted three bushels of potatoes. Mary's Father & Mother were here all day. Mr. & Mrs. Manning in the evening. Watered the garden just before dark. A very warm clear day, the ground very much in want of rain.
Sat 3 - Planted 1 bu. Of potatoes, a small quantity of corn and two rows of sweet corn, sowed carrots. I observed the grubs at the potatoes onions and on examining them found a great many. J. A. & Merritt were here at noon. Mr. Miller loaded his boxes and left for Mr. J. Priests. Very warm day.
Sun 4 - Went to Russeltown chapel and heard Mr. Campbell preach. Broke one of my wagon shafts. Mary came home with Angeline. After dinner rode with Daniel in the double wagon to Mr. Gordon's. Got home before dark. Clear and warm.
Mon 5 - Planted 1 pt of white beans and paid of potatoes and a lot of cucumbers sprouted. What potatoes I had left, I left them in the shed in old boxes, hoed the early potatoes, cut firewood and spliced the shaft of my wagon. A very warm day, a shower in the evening.
Tues 6 - Left home after breakfast and got to Hemmingford at 10 o'clock. Made preparations to draw the line on the south side of the R.C. church ground. Got finished before sundown. Took supper at Mr. Brackinridge's and slept at Sriver's, rain commenced at dark and continued throughout the night. A beautiful warm day.
Wed 7 - Took breakfast at Sriver's. the rain continued until 10 o'clock. Drew and established the lines around the corner lot for W.B. Johnson before noon, the rain again commencing and continued until three. Drew the lines on a piece of land for G. Irwine, rain in the evening. Mother set out 115 cabbage plants. Slept at Mr. Brackinridge's.
Thur 8 - Drew the Process Verbal of the surveys done yesterday and got them signed before noon. Heavy rain all the forenoon. Seeing no prospect of dry weather, started for home after dinner. A Scotch Mist falling all the afternoon. Transplanted squash vines, heavy rain throughout the night.
Fri 9 - Very heavy rain in the morning which continued until 10 o'clock. Light showers remainder of the day. Our heifer calved sometime during the night. Repaired the windows, grubs cutting the cabbage, cucumbers and potatoes.
Sat 10 - Occasional showers throughout the day. Had a call from Mr. McFee, gave them the heifer calf. Made a spout for the sink and engaged repairing matters and things about the house the remainder of the day. Set out tomato plants in the evening where I planted cucumbers.
Sun 11 - Went to Church at the Flatts. Took dinner at Mr. McFee's and tea at Mr. Gordon's. Called on Daniel Gordon who I found very sick, having had the Doctor just before. Cloudy in the forenoon, clear and warm in the afternoon.
Mon 12 - After breakfast went to Anna's, left Mary, took Adam to the village. Bought milk dishes, got corn ground, took dinner and tea at Anna's and then home before milking time. An extra warm day and no wind. A slight shower about midnight.
Tues 13 - Started early for Hemmingford. Went by Father's, got to Sweet's at 11 o'clock. Stayed for dinner. Got to Mr. Marlin's at 5 A.M. Made arrangements to draw a line for him tomorrow. Very warm and sultry in the evening. A very heavy thunder and lightning, light showers. Slept at Mr. Marlin's
Wed 14 Drew a line on Lot No. 12, 2nd Range crown land for J. Marlin and Warner. Finished about 5 o'clock. A pleasant day not too warm, thunder and lightning in the evening. Slept at Mr. Marlin's.
Thurs 15 - Drew a line between Lots No. 54 six 3rd Range Clergy Reserves, also commenced a line to divide lot no. 4 2nd range C. Reverses. A beautiful day, thunder and lightning in the evening. A light shower just before we quit work which wet us to the skins. Slept at Thomas Fyles.
Fri 16 - drew a line to divide the east half of lot no. 2, 3rd range Clergy reserves equally, had six men employed a just got finished at sundown. A very warm day, the flies biting very bad. Slept at Kyle's.
Sat 17 - finished the line commenced last Thurs. Took dinner at Mr. Niles, got my horse shod by Mr. Goughs and arrived home after sundown. A beautiful day, cool in the evening.
Sun 18 - After dinner drove down to Mr. Gordon's, saw Charles & Anna there also. John & Eliza got home in time for milking. Called on Mr. Manning in the evening. Saw Mr. Sturgeon on his way home from Huntingdon.
Mon 19 - Started early to my Father's after Plaster of Paris, went with Adam fishing. Caught 7 in about 3 hours. C. Gordon, C Parham and George followed after us but we did not see them after dinner. Brought Mother home with me. Mr. & Mrs. R. Sweet had spent the afternoon with Mary. Squally in the morning, the rest clear and mild.
Tues 20 - Hoed early potatoes, corn and beans. Mother went with Mr. Manning as far as Mr. Gordon's which left me more time to work. A beautiful day but very warm watered the garden in the eve. Our well getting short.
Wed 21 - Hoed the potatoes, planted 29th May. Also cabbages, squashes and a few more of the beans and the potatoes planted 5th June. A very warm day, wind in the east.
Thurs 22 - Transplanted 15 cabbage plants planted cucumbers, hoed the remainder of the beans, pulled weeds out of the potatoes and watered the garden in the evening. A cloudy day but no rain.
Fr 23 - Hoed potatoes the greater part of the day, intended drawing a line for D. Parham but the morning being cloudy and slight showers occasionally, I did not go. In the morning Mary seized with a stiff neck which troubled her very much all day. After nine clear and fair.
Sat 24 - Drew a line between the lots of Willis Roberts and Daniel Parham, finished by 3 o'clock. Gathered strawberries along with Mr. McFee and Angeline. Tea at M. McFee's, got home. Watered cabbages in the eve. Cloudy in the morning but quite clear after 9PM at dark a light shower with thunder.
Sun 25 - At home all day, had a call from Clark, in the eve gathered a barrel of strawberries, a beautiful day, quite cool in the evening.
Mon - 26 - Left home early, went by the Hill, saw my Brother James who accompanied me so far as Mr. Horn's. measured a piece of ground on lot 160 4th range. Commenced raining at 3PM and continued until eve. Got to Mr. Sweet's before dark. Quite wet.
Tue 27 - Left Mr. Sweet's after breakfast, commenced a line before noon between the lands of Dunlap and Maxwell, got finished at sundown. Slept at McNaughton's. saw Mr. Dow who said that there had been from 15 to 20 cases of cholera in Montreal that day. Quite warm and clear. G. Harvey hoeing potatoes.
Wed 28 - Laid out a piece of ground for Mr. Gough west of the part already occupied by him, very heavy rain before noon, also another shower at 4 o'clock. Found James E. at O'Neil's and came home over the Hill which we reached after sunset. Very warm day.
Thur - 29 - Got notice to attend at "Young's" for Militia Muster, drove up with J.E. after dinner. Too late for drill, had two games of ball, got home by tea time. Mr. & Mrs. D. Gordon were here. Shot 8 squirrels, went over with D. in the eve. A beautiful day clear and bright.
Fri 30 - Jr. Harvey hoeing potatoes but owing to rain commencing at an early hour not much hoeing done. Kept him engaged chopping wood under the shed. J.E. went down to Anna's with the Stage. Catherine went with him. Hoed cabbages in the evening.
JUL
Sat 1 - Hoed potatoes, melons and cucumbers, finished hoeing the first time, a very warm day, clear and sultry. Emma was taken very sick about the middle of the afternoon. We think she is teething, our well got short of water.
Sun 2 - Emma is still unwell. Gave her castor oil Mr. & Mrs. McFee called to see us in the afternoon. Very warm weather. Had to carry water from Mr. Manning's and Mr. McGill's, which is a very hard job.
Mon 3 - After breakfast went down to get my horse shod at Mr. Tittles, took Mary to her Father's, got home in the evening, saw John McNaughton who told Charles had got a contract on the Montreal & Bytown R.R. and that he Charles wishes me to go with him next Mon. very warm.
Tues 4 - Clark came up last night and we started early for Entriville to beat the races. Enjoyed myself very much, got home at 11PM, tired and sleepy. A very warm day afternoon the wind blew a hurricane, got a young pig from Mr. Gordon yesterday.
Wed 5 - Hoed potatoes and corn the greater part of the day. Clark engaged shooting squirrels. In the eve. Drove up to Mr. Milne's, the shoemaker and left my measure for a pair of boots which is to have ready next Monday. Very warm and sultry, no wind.
Thurs 6 - Took Mary and Katherine as far as her Father's. went do draw a line on the east side of the English River, got through with it the first time and was 31 ft astray, it being 5 o'clock, we quit for the day, got home at sundown, the flies were biting bad all day.
Fri 7 - Started early and finished the line began yesterday, got home before Tea time. Hoed beans in the evening, the warmest day in the season, watered the garden in the eve. Had peas large enough to use.
Sat 8 - Hoed the remainder of the beans, cucumbers, melons and cabbages, weather same as yesterday, only cloudy and showery but none of the showers passed this way. Watered the garden in the evening.
Sun 9 - After breakfast, went with N. Manning on foot to see Merritt but he was not home. After tea drove Mary up to Wm. Brodus and back and then drove N.M. down to Merritt's, got the news from the East, had a call from J. M. Gilton and wife, took supper at N. Manning's. A beautiful day, not so warm as yesterday. A few drops of rain.
Mon 10 - Had Edward Harvey hoeing in the forenoon, the ground being so dry quit at noon to commence again after we get rain. The afternoon cut briers west of the house, preparing to build stonewall, had a call from Mr. & Mrs. McFee on their way to and from the lines, clear and cooler than yesterday.
Tues 11 - Made road with the briers cut yesterday, laid the foundation of the stone wall on the line between N. Manning and me, commenced drawing stones but broke the stone boat, had a call from Kath and Charlotte McFee. Very warm showers north of us.
Wed 12 - Engaged weeding potatoes in the forenoon, went with N.M. to the corners from thence to the Lines on my way back left my wagon with the wheelwright to get it repaired, got my boots from the shoemakers, a warm day with a strong wind, had new potatoes.
Thur 13 - Did nothing in the forenoon. After dinner went after my wagon which cost 15/ for repairing. Promised to draw a line for Gendreau in Jamestown on Saturday next. In the eve weeded potatoes. Very dry weather. The crops suffering for rain.
Fri - 14 - After breakfast went down with Mary to Her Father's. took dinner there and tea at J. McFee's. Mr. & Mrs. Main got to Mr. Gordon's before tea. A very warm day. Watered the cabbage in the evening.
Sat 15 - Started early for Jamestown and drew the line between Lots No. 7 & 8 in the 6th concession. Got home at 5 o'clock. Mr. & Mrs. Main, Mr. & Mrs. Gordon and George Edwards came in the evening. A very hot clear day.
Sun 16 - Mr. & Mrs. Gordon and Mr. & Mrs. Main left after breakfast. Amos Manning was very ill throughout the day. Clark came up in the afternoon and George went off with him in the evening. A warm day.
Mon 17 - Weeding potatoes in the forenoon, in the afternoon cleaned the carrots and cabbage, watered the garden.
Tues 18 - Drew two barrels of water from Condy's well and one from the spring at the Potash Works. Had a call from P. McNaughton on his way to and from the Agricultural Meeting. Took care of Emma whilst Mary washed, went down to J. M. Fee's on horse back in the evening, weather same as yesterday.
Wed 19 - Adam Gordon came here after dinner. Had a call from the Missus Borders, Fulton Johnson and Henderson in the evening and also R. Fulton & N.M. this was said to be the warmest day of the season and by some the warmest day they ever felt. A nice shower in the eve.
Thurs 20 - Hunting squirrels all forenoon, in the PM weeding potatoes. Adam left after tea, had Mr. & Mrs. D.G. at tea, a light shower in the eve. Very warm all day with showers yesterday and today saved 2 barrels of water. Had tomatoes for dinner.
Fr 21 - Hoed 4 rows of potatoes before breakfast, went with N. Manning to a sale of hay at Struthers Farm, bought none, looked at Freeland hay, got home before tea. Hoed potatoes in the eve. Breeze from the N.E.
Sat 22 - after breakfast went with N & J Manning and took hay to Cutonshaws and also bought 2 acres on D. Tolman's farm. After dinner took Mary over to W. O'Neils, saw Charles and Anna on their way from the Rock. A very warm day, a light shower, got home in time for milking.
Sun 23 - At home all day, had a call from Mr. & Mrs. J. McFee, Mr. & Mrs. C Gordon, Angeline, Daniel and Amos. A beautiful day had green beans
Mon 24 - Assisted N. Manning making a hay rack in the A.M. after dinner went down with Mary to Charles and took tea. Made purchases at Struthers, picked cherries at Mr. Gordon, and got home at dark a beautiful day, all vegetation suffering for want of rain.
Tues - 25 Engaged weeding potatoes in the AM after assisted N.M. to rake hay, a very warm day. Made arrangements to commence haying at Tolmans tomorrow.
Wed 26 - Went to Tolmans with J Manning and 3 of N. Manning's men, engaged mowing until 5 o'clock and then raked 26 cocks. Got home at dark very tired. A beautiful day with blowing strong from the west.
Thurs 27 - Started after breakfast with J. Manning and raked the remainder of the hay cut yesterday. Had 27 cocks, got home at 1 o'clock, after dinner went to the election, gave my vote for the first time. Did not get home until after dark a fine day
Fri 27 - Assisted N. Manning to mow in his lower field, went to the Corners in the eve to hear how the Election had got on, saw Mr. Cantwell who had been at Durham, he said Dwitt had 158 majority.
Sat 29 - After fixing matters and things about home, went to the Rock, had a picnic on wild pigeons and other eatables brought by the parties. Appearance of rain in the morning, very fine day but warm
Sun 30 - Slept late, had very little time for fixing matters and things before time for church. Heard rev Mr. Milligren preach, got home at 4PM, had a beautiful day. Not too warm, no rain yet.
Mon 31 - Started after breakfast for Tolman's along with J. Manning and two men. Mowed all day, very warm and sultry.
AUG
Tues 1 - Raked with J. Manning the hay cut yesterday a very light shower in the afternoon, but not enough to lay the dust. M. McGilton and Clark had been up and left an invitation to attend the wedding tomorrow.
Wed 2 - Mowed at Tolmans with J. M. until 5 o'clock, went from there to Mr. Gordon's, B. McGilton and Angeline got married at Chateauguay, spent a pleasant evening and got home at 10 o'clock.
Thur 3 - At home all day, unwell. James Manning and P. McGrotty drawing hay from Tolman's. Drew 4 loads for Tolman and 1 each for James Nelson and me. A warm day, fire running on the Black River and at Campions threatening to do mischief.
Fri 4 - J. Manning and I raked the hay cut on Wed and some that was cut last Mon. got done at 5 o'clock. Fire still running and doing mischief. Several buildings said to be burned on B.R.
Sat 5 - Drew hay with J. Manning 2 loads to Tolman and 1 to Nelson, James and I went to the Corners in the eve with J.M. to measure a piece of chopping for Youngs but was too late, was quite unwell in the evening, quite dry and clear.
Sun 6 - unwell all night, but better in the morning. Had a visit from the Miss Main's. warm and clear with strong west wind until 3 PM when we had a thunder shower which wet the ground about 1 inch. Clear again at 6PM
Mon 7 - About home in the forenoon, pulling weeds, measured copping for N. Manning, cut hay in front of the house in the afternoon, assisted J. Manning on the McGill place. Mr. & Mrs. B. McGilton came up on the stage. A cold day for the season after the rain.
Tues 8 - Helped J. Manning to rake on the McGill place, in the afternoon went to D. Gordon's mowing bee, Mary and the Miss Mains went to her Father's and got back in the evening. A beautiful day but cool. B & Angeline went to the B. River and back.
Wed 9 - Mowed and raked on the Tolmans place along with J.M. and Nelson's man. We engaged two men to mow tomorrow. A warm day, he Miss Mains went home and Mr. & Mrs. mc went home
Thur 10 - At Tolman's with Manning and 11/2 days of Nelsons men. Had the men that promised to come yesterday finished mowing & raking. Drew 1 load for James and one for me. A very warm day.
Fri 11 - Finished drawing hay from Tolmans, 1 load for Tolman 1 1/2 for Nelson and 2/3 for me. Did not finish til 5 o'clock. A light shower, just enough to damp the hay about 4 o'clock, the remainder of the day warm and clear.
Sat 12 - A shower about daylight. J. Manning & I bought peas from Daniel Gordon. Mary & I went over to my Father's and had a very pleasant visit, got home at dark. A clear warm day
Sun 13 - Went to the Methodist Church Quarterly Meeting day. W. Broders Youngest child was buried in the afternoon. Mrs. Gordon came here into the evening. We got a very light shower on our way to meeting. The remainder of day clear & fair.
Mon 14 - In the morning went with N. Manning to accompany the remains of H. Struthers to the Russeltown burying grounds. Took Mary on the way up. Rev Mr. Milligren preached from the Tex "to die is gain". Had a call from Mr. & Mrs. And Miss McFee, Mother, sisters Anne & Mary, Mrs. Burke, J. Perry and J. Oneil. A cold day.
Tues 15 - Drew the peas bought from Daniels in the forenoon and in the afternoon thrashed them out. Had only a light shower in the afternoon for about 1 hour. Clear in the evening.
Wed 16 Cut hay on J. A. Gordons farm on shares. Had a man from N. Manning's moving grass. Very light. A cold day for the season with high wind.
Thurs 17. Raked the hay cut yesterday. Had a man from N. Manning's mowing. A warm day, clear and fair. Miss Duncan and Mrs. Lovejoy spent the afternoon with Mary.
Fri 18 - Finished mowing, racked and cocked the hay cut yesterday and today made a horse for sawing wood with weather same as yesterday with high wind.
Sat 19 - Took Mary to the shoemaker to get her measured for booties. Had a call from Mr. & Mrs. Merritt Gordon in the afternoon. Drew my potion of the hay cut on J. A. G's farm. In the eve. Assisted by Amos Manning.
Sun 20 - Went to church at the Flatts. Left Emma at her Grandmother's. took dinner there and tea at John McFee's. Angeline came home with us in the evening. A very warm day with high wind, fire running in a gust, many places through the country.
Mon 21. In the forenoon building stone wall on the line ________N. Manning's. Afternoon pulling weeds in the garden, had a call from Charles Gordon & J. Sawyer. Mary was taken very ill about 10 o'clock P.M. Got Mr. & Mrs. Manning over. She was a little better at midnight. Clear & warm.
Tues 22 - Mr. & Mrs. Manning went home about 2 a.m. Mary very ill at times and other times easier. In the eve. Sent for the Dr. who came at 9A.M. left the medicine. She still continues very ill. Picked tomatoes, weather same as yesterday.
Wed 23 - About 2 A.M. sent Amos Manning after Mrs. Gordon, Miss Duncan sat up until Mr. Gordon came. Mary was a little better. Mr. Gordon & Mr. McFee came here about noon and they left in the eve. Cloudy & appearance of rain.
Thurs. 24 - Cleaned the peas and took care of Mary the greater part of the day. Cut wood etc. a clear day and quite warm.
Fri 25. Went with James McGill to Hemmingford to see hay. Got back at dark. Weather same as yesterday. Mary is getting quite smart. Saw Hiram Wellsie late from Iowa. Heard from Reed Miller.
Sat 26 - Assisted A. M. to poke a colt. D. G. told me my horse broke down the fences. Took him home and shut him in the stable. Went to draw a line for Miles the Cobbler in the afternoon. Mary complaining a little when I got home. A very misty or smoky day.
Sun 27 - Drove Mary & Angeline down to their Father's. Mary got quite unwell at home at 4 P.M. got the Dr. in the eve. Mr. & Mrs. Manning and Miss Duncan assisted in taking care of Mary. A beautiful day but rather cool. Peter Wright broke his leg in the eve.
Mon 28 - Mary got a little better about 2 A.M. & continued improving all day. Mr. & Mrs. Merritt called about noon and Mrs. Lovejoy in the afternoon. I was up to the eyes in business housekeeping & taking care of Emma. A beautiful day. The Dr. called before dinner.
Tues 29 Attended Mary who was up and down the greater part of the day. She was complaining a considerable. Made a yoke for the horse, had him shut up in the stable since Sat. I am getting to be a good cook and dairy maid. Fine day.
Wed 30 - Cooking & nursing all day. Getting tired of housework. Had ripe watermelons. A beautiful day.
Thurs 31 - Mary a little better and I went to Little's and got the horse shod after dinner. Mary got tea in the eve. For the first time since the 21st. had a light shower last eve which made everything look green.
SEP
Fri 1 - Made a frame for bed curtains, intended measuring J. Hales meadow in the afternoon. A light rain prevented me going. Had a call from Clark and Benson after noon. Clark is coming tomorrow to shoot pigeons. Emma was quite sick all night.
Sat 2 - A Scotch Mist all night. Not much rain. Clark came after dinner. Shot several times at pigeons but killed none. Got 3 black and gray squirrels. Had a heavy shower at 4P.M. Emma still unwell.
Sun 3 - No rain during the night. A light shower in the morning. Searching for the cow until noon. Did not have her last night. Had a parting call from Benson and Angeline also a call from Mr. & Mrs. D. Gordon in the evening. Very warm & clear.
Mon 4 - Measured John Hall's meadow on the Hill. Helen McGill came and commenced work after dinner. A warm day.
Tues 5 - Went to the Norton Creek to measure and draw a line for Mr. Maher, he could not get help not having finished haying and harvesting so we put the work over for a time. Got home at dark. John Campion got married to Miss Castels today. A very very warm day.
Wed 6 - Cut cornstalks and picked plums in the forenoon. In the afternoon went visiting to J. McFee's and Mr. Gordon's. Got home in the eve. Very high wind and heavy rain. All clear at 9 P.M. got the cow and milked after the rain.
Thurs 7 - Got plums at J. McGill's and assisted in preserving them after dinner went hunting. Got no game. A cool day after last night's rain. J. M. gathering plums for Montreal Market
Fri 8 - Started after breakfast for Mr. Sweets, arrived at 10 1/2 got an application for insurance from Messers Horn & Sweet. Spent a pleasant P.M. home after dark. Commenced raining at 9 P.M. and continued all night.
Sat 9 - Cut firewood and prepared applications and sent them to Hantingdon by post. Went with N. Manning to Ames and got home at sundown. Rain abated at 9:A.M. the remainder clear & warm. Cool in the eve.
Sun 10 - Could not get the cow last night. Found her after breakfast near Capt McFee's, had cabbages for the first time this season for dinner. Called on Mrs. Manning in the eve. A clear day but quite cool.
Mon 11 - Started after breakfast for the rear in Norton Creek. Delayed at the village. After dinner drew a line between the lands of Robert & John Kees and John Gleason. At home we had a severe hoar frost, not hurting the green crop.
Tues 12 - Slept last night at John Kees, in the forenoon traced the concession in the rear of the Norton Creek Range, in the afternoon drew a line between the lands of Robert & John Kees. A clear day and cool enough for work. There was not any frost last night.
Wed 13 - In the forenoon drew a line between the lands of James O'Kelly and Michael Waters. After dinner drew a line between the lands of Michael Waters and Michael Ryan and slept last night at John Kees. Weather same as yesterday. Exchanged horses with John Kees and gave him 42/b with my horse for his_________
Thur 14 - Slept last night at Michael Waters and was very much annoyed with bedbugs or other vermin. In the forenoon drew a line between the lands of Michael Ryan and Malcolm McRae. Rain commenced about 11 o'clock and continued. Started after dinner for home, got very wet. Found Mary at her Father's, got home about sunset.
Fir 15. It continued to rain all night and until about 8 o'clock this morning when it abated. We had a Scotch Mist until noon, when it cleared up. Went over to my Father's, got Mr. Jackson to shoe my horse after getting home cut wood until dark.
Sat 16 - Started after breakfast and drew a line of lot No. 202, 5th range in Hemmingford between Moise Geroux and Antoine Perrin. Took tea at C. Gordon's and got home at dusk. A cold day for the season, cold and windy.
Sun 17 - At & about home all day. After dinner went with N. Manning to his upper place to see his orchard. Brought home my pockets full of apples. Emma has got a very bad cold and diarrhea which makes her very restive. Quite cool a light frost last night.
Mon 18 - Started early for Norton Creek to draw a line for M. Maher and another for John McGill, the parties were not at home after waiting until 2 o'clock. Left for home. A very hard frost last night which killed the cucumber vines and part of the potato tops, a beautiful day but cool. Got home at dark. (his 31st birthday)
Tues 19 - In the forenoon cut wood, made a new cross bar for the wood saw and other fixtures about the bar. In the afternoon drove down to Merritt's and took tea. Light showers during the afternoon and very heavy rain after dark. The fore part of the day clear & pleasant.
Wed 20 - the weather continued all night and until 8 A.M. when it cleared up. Cold & windy, went with Nelson Manning to Robert Mannaghs sale and purchased a few articles. Saw James A. Gordon who came from Scriver's this morning. Got home at dark Quite cold & hungry not having had dinner.
Thur 21 - Started early and drew a line on lot 60 Edwardstown between Gleason and Petit Tash. Did not get home until 9P.M. a cool day but clear & pleasant. Mary had a call from Her Father & Mother & her brother James and his wife on their way to Potsdam.
Fri 22 - At home all day. Commenced to make a new reach and perch for my wagon. Assisted at the Foundry when they were casting and bending plough handles. Nelson and Amos went to Malone to see the horse races and the execution. A beautiful warm day.
Sat 23 - Got the wagon finished after dinner. Made a whip stock, had a call from J. A. Gordon in the eve, he back to his mother-in-laws to spend the night, a clear warm day. High wind at night. Made a bargain for a piece of land on the south side of the road for fifteen dollars.
Sun 24 - Attended church at Russeltown Corners in the forenoon. In the afternoon went with J. A. Gordon and N. Manning to Royal Thompson's. Took tea at widow Manning's in the evening. Clear warm & sultry.
Mon 25 - After breakfast, Mr. J. A. Gordon and Mary drove to Mr. Gordon's and J. A. G. & I went on foot. Took dinner and then drove to Charles. Saw his Mill operations. Made up our account of extra work done on G.T.R.R. last fall. Took tea at Charles's and got home a 9 o'clock. Had several heavy showers during the day.
Tues 26 - Started early for Hemmingford to attend cattle show in company with N. Manning. Gave J. Parham a ride from Manning's. Circulated and saw what was to be seen. Took dinner at Tothams. And a late dinner at W. Scriver's. A very warm day but clear and fair. Slept with K. Nesbitt at Scriver's.
Wed 27 - Drew lines on the lands of M. Patton, C. McDermid, N. Proper & Jas. Kennedy in the evening drew the Process Verbal. A long days work did not get out of the woods until dark. A very warm day. Slept at Nelson Propers with C. McDermid.
Thur 28 After breakfast set two boundary and had the Process Verbal signed, got the horse shod and went to Wm Kennedy's in Sherrington. Commenced his line after dinner and got to the backpost at sundown. Slept at Kennedy's with Alec Kennedy.
Fri 29. Corrected the lines drawn yesterday and continued it to the Tacolli River. Got back to the house at 2 o'clock. After dinner went to Oliver Lyttle's and remained there all night. A cold wind all day which made a coat very comfortable.
Sat 30 - Measured a piece of ground on the west end of lot no. 3 in the 5th range. Bland lands to Oliver Lyttle, finished about 10 o'clock after dinner started for home. Delayed a little at Scrivers and arrived at home about dark. Clear & cold. A hard frost last night.
OCT
Sun 1 - After breakfast called on Daniel who has been quite unwell but was getting better. Went to N. M. nursery and got apples. Set down work done during the week in my field book. Had a call from two Canadian _________. Gauthem A. artificiale a pleasant day.
Mon 2 - Cut wood in the forenoon, in the afternoon took Mary & Emma to Dr. Payne's to get advise. He gave 6 powders to be taken morning & eve. Assisted N. M. to butcher a sheep. A cloudy blustering day. No rain.
Tues 3 - Cut wood in the A.M. Clark & young Jas. Gordon came up to shoot squirrels went with them awhile in the P.M. Mended my harness and gathered butternuts. Clark, Jas & Dr. McCarrol left here at dark. Strong wind all day. Light shower at dark.
Wed 4 - After breakfast went to the fair & St. Jean Chrysostome. Spent the day there and got home at dark. Intended going to the creek to work but the parties were not ready. Promised to go on Mon. next. Light showers, hardly enough to lay the dust.
Thur 5 - Cut wood and gathered butternuts. Got 16 pails full that had been blown off with the wind. Took the tomatoes in and the pumpkins for fear of frost but the wind continued to blow all night. No frost.
Fr 6 - Started before sunrise and got to Devines on the English River before 9: o'clock to draw a line, the parties were engaged threshing and did not expect me so that they could not attend to surveying. Got home at dusk a warm clear day.
Sat 7 - Engaged all day at making the accounts between C. Gordon and myself on last fall's work on wood shed. Emma is getting better is very cross and peevish a beautiful clear dry warm and pleasant. Circus at Chateauguay. Heard that the cars run through to Plattsbury again today for the first time since spring.
Sun 8 - Took Mary to Church at the Flatts, left Emma at her Grandmother's. took dinner at J. McFee's, got home about sunset. Last night the foxes took seven turkeys from Jas McGill & us. A cold cloudy day.
Mon 9 - Intended going to the Beech Ridge to work but it commenced raining about 4 o'clock and continued short intervals throughout the day.
Tues Oct 10 - Started early and got to the Beech Ridge at 10 o'clock Did not commence until afternoon. Drew the line between lots No. 19 & 20 on range N.W. of Beech Ridge. Could not find the rear line so that I had to leave the line drawn unfinished. Slept at B. Francis. A pleasant day. Clear and cold.
Wed 11 - Traced out the line in rear of lots no. 11, 12,13,14,15 in Range N.W. of Beech Ridge, finished at 4 o'clock and then went to St. Remi to be on Land forth cars to Montreal next morning. Spent the eve at Duncan's. Slept at the St. Remi house. A beautiful day.
Thur 12 - In the morning found Charles & others at St. Remi, the cars did not come until 10 o'clock. Got to Montreal at 1/2 past 11. saw James Gordon, could not get our affairs settled as Mr. Ross was in Upper Canada, got back to St. Remi after dark.
Fri 13 - Slept at St. Remi house last night and started after breakfast with the intention of drawing a line on the Beech Ridge but could not agree with the parties about the price, filled out an application of insuring Mr. Mahers property. Got home in the evening. My horse quite unwell. Not able to trot any.
Sat 1 - Got D. Gordon's mare and went with Mary over to my Father's. Mother was gone to Church but got back at 3 o'clock. Took down a swarm of bees to take home. Aim to get Father's old mare tomorrow and let mine have a rest for a week. Got home before dark. Rain commenced after dinner and continued.
Sun 15 - Rain continued all day. Intended going to church but did not like taking my horse out in the rain. After giving her medicine had a call from Clark, Daniel & T. Saunders. George came over in the eve. With the old mare and stayed all night.
Mon 16. Left home after breakfast and got to the Creek at noon. Commenced the line between the Bean River Concession and the rear of lots on Beach Ridge and ran 10 ______ and found the posts, a hard frost this morning after the rain. Day clear & cold, slept at Mr. Hrama's.
Tues. 17 - Continued the line drawn yesterday to the Bean River road. Did not find a post on the route. Set temporary posts at 5 ______ and six feet for each lot. Henry Rooney refused paying his share, a light frost last night. The day mild and clear. Saw John McGill and examined Mr. Wheatley's mill. Slept at Francis.
Wed 18 - Corrected the line drawn last Tues.week to the post set yesterday. Went to draw a line for Fontine & Curry, found neither of them at home. Corrected a short line in rear of Dr. Livingston's lot and got home at dark. Mild & clear with noon cloudy with light showers in the afternoon.
Thur 19 - Drew a line on the V.E. side of lot no. 22, 4th range, Russeltown, found a post in front but did not find one in rear. Gave it the just measurements to according to the deed. Got home at dark. This was the coldest day of the season. Made arrangements for digging potatoes tomorrow, weather permitting.
Fri 20- Dug 10 pails of potatoes. Had James Harvey assisting. Hard frost in the morning. A fine day almost equal to summer. Charlotte Mcfee came up in the afternoon.
Sat 21 - Had James Harvey and Potva digging potatoes in the forenoon and in the afternoon Potva finished digging the potatoes and J. Harvey cut firewood. Had a call from the Missus Borers, Miss Fulton, Miss Howard, James Allen came in the evening and stayed all night. A beautiful day.
Sun 22 - Went to church at the Flatts. Mary stayed at J. McFee's with Emma. Took dinner at Charles, tea at Mr. Gordon's, got home at sunset. Had a call from Mr. & Mrs. N. Manning and D. Parham in the eve, J. Allen started away before breakfast. A beautiful day almost equal to midsummer.
Mon 23 - Started for the notaries with Charles deeded his land in Russeltown back to him. Intended drawing lines on English River range, but sold my wagon to Charles for $40.00. Had no conveyance for my tools so returned home in the eve. Weather clear & warm.
Tues 24 - Split wood in the A.M. went to Russeltown Fair with J. Manning. Came home at 4 o'clock with J McFee, gave James McGill $50.50 for his wagon and cart with two boxes. Brought the wagon home in the eve. To be ready for an early start tomorrow morning. Almost uncomfortably warm.
Wed 25 - Left home early, got to St. Jean Chrysostome at 9 A.M. drew a line between the land of R. Moore & A. Dernarson lots 22 & 23 English river Range. A beautiful day, very warm slept at R. Moore's.
Thur 26 - Left at daylight and went to Divine's, the parties not home, did not commence until after dinner, divided lot no. 9 English River Range south of Georgetown. Finished at dark. Wrote the Process Verbal after supper. Slept at Widow Devine's. a light frost in the morning weather same as yesterday.
Fri 27 - Left Devine's after breakfast. Went to measure lot no. 19, 3r5d range, south Georgetown one of the parties not at home. Commenced at noon, measured the lot and drew the Process Verbal in the eve. Slept at Scobie's rather uncomfortable quarters. A very warm day.
Sat 28 Left for home after breakfast. Got to a village at 10 A.M. left at noon, took dinner at Mr. Gordon's. got home at 4P.M. split some wood etc. etc. weather equal to midsummer.
Sun 29 - Attended church at Russeltown. Quarterly meeting. Had a call from Mr. Gordon, Mrs. McFee also from Chas. Horn and P.S. Christoffer Byers, brought over my horse and took the old mare home. A very warm day.
Mon 30. In the afternoon preparing to start of Elgin. Left home after dinner, got to McFarline's at dusk. A very warm day slept at Daniel McFarlin's.
Tues 30. - Commenced after breakfast to draw a line to part of 100 acres to Alec Grahams, scaled Mudor Oak Creek and drew the line 1.5 claims. Occasional showers throughout the day. About 5 P.M. had a very heavy shower which lasted until dark slept at D. McFarline's.
NOV
Wed 1 - Finished the line commenced yesterday to Trout River, scaled the River in front of Graham's lot. Had to add 21 links to the breadth and got finished at sunset, heavy rain last night and light showers to day but not enough to detain work. Cooler than yesterday. Slept at D. McFarline's.
Thurs 2 - Commenced to layoff 100 acres to Dan McFarline Junr. Sealed Mudor oak creek & Trout River & started the line at sunset. Cool & comfortable day to work. Slept at D. McFarline's.
Fri 3 - Got the line commenced last night. Finished at 2 1/2 P.M. began to draw the Process Verbal for the two lines drawn. Got ready for signing at 8 o'clock. Received my pay and had everything ready for an early start tomorrow morning. Quite cool and windy. Slept at D. McFarline's rain, last night.
Sat 4 - Left D. McFarlaine's after breakfast. Called on E. _______
who promised to bring me some money in a few days. Got home about 2 P.M. cut wood for tomorrow. This has been the coldest day we have had this season. The roads were frozen all day. A few flakes of snow flying occasionally. Had the pleasure of sleeping at home.
Sun 5 - At and about home all day. Had a call from N. M. before noon. D. Gordon called in the P.M. went over to N. Mannings in the evening. Had a glass of cider. Cold & windy.
Mon 6 - Cut wood and hauled two cartloads of manure to bank the house. In the afternoon went with Mary to Charles', got home at dark. At 8 P.M. went to a dance at Merritt Gordon's. danced twice and got back a little after midnight. A very cold blustery day. Had a light fall of snow after dark.
Tues 7 - Raining in the morning when we got up, had James Harvey sawing wood. Split wood until 10 A.M., started for the east part of Hemmingford, took dinner at my Father's, when I got to Sweet's, rain commenced , put up for the night, saw a very large deer that J. Hamilton shot. Weather clear & warm in the eve.
Wed 8 - Started from Sweet's after breakfast got to Naffer's at 10 A.M. found the parties not in a fit state for work. Was invited by Mr. Hay's to spend the night with him. Weather very cold and windy. Slept at Mr. Hay's with John McFee.
Thur 9 - After breakfast went with Mr. Hay's to Nappers, set posts to part 2 acres in superficies of the north side of lot no. 1, 5th range, Crown reserves. Took dinner at Napper's, went to Mr. Marlin's, got 5 bu of lime, thence to Wingates for the store bought last spring. Slept at Scriver's, weather continuing cold.
Mon 10 Left Scriver's after breakfast. Got the barrel bought at Mannagh's sale and was home at 1 P.M. did nothing but unload the lime. Weather moderating a little.
Sat 11 - In the morning rode with O. Parham to C. Gordon's and with C. Gordon to the auction at McIntoshes. Bought books which I sent home with N. Manning, George and I followed on foot, we had a few light showers throughout the day and evening.
Sun 12 - Heard the Rev Mr. Paul preach at Russeltown Flatts, took dinner at Mr. Gordon's and got home at 4 P.M.. George went to church with us. Mary stayed at her Father's with Emma, weather mild and thawing out the ground. The road's quite safe.
Mon 13 - Started for Montreal at 2 A.M. with N. Manning & C. Gordon at St. Remi in time for the cars, paid R.R. fare for the first time on that road. Got to the St. Nicholas House at 11:30. circulated through town the remainder of the day. J. A. Gordon came after dark, very heavy rain in the morning, clear & fine afternoon.
Tues 14 - Went to the Grand T R.R. office several times looking for Mr. Storke, but could not find him. Attended an auction at the square at Nelson's monument. Left Montreal at 4PM and got to St. Remi. Had a game of cards at Mr. Duncan's and slept at Tassies. Day clear and fair rain and dark.
Wed 15. Left St. Remi after breakfast, could not get along very fast - the roads being very bad. Detained owing to A. Rossies wagon breaking down. Did not get home until after dark. Mary had just got home from her Father's. Snow falling slowly all day, but melting as fast as it fell.
Thur 16 - In the forenoon split wood and regulated matters and things around the house. In the P.M. assisted D. Gordon at raising a shed at his barn. Snow fell about 2 inches last night but the greater part of it went off throughout the day.
Fri 17 - Left home after breakfast on horseback. The roads being very muddy. Drew a line between lots 2 & 3 on the range in rear of English River con. Edwardstown. Robert & Stewart No. 2, Peter Mass No. 3, finished at 4:00 in forenoon, afternoon snowing. Slept at Mr. Stewart's.
Sat 18 - Drew the line between lots no. 2 on the range in rear of English River concession Edwardstown S.E. part of No. 1, Turcot No. 2, Robert Stewart in the forenoon. Very disagreeable owing to the snow on the brush in the P.M. clear and pleasant, got the line finished at 2 & home at dark.
Sun 19 Did not go to church owing to the road being bad. Had a call from Charles Adams, Richard Sweet, N. Manning, Daniel Gordon and Wife. Mary was quite unwell with a pain in her side. Weather cold but not freezing.
Mon 20 _ Mary still complaining with her side. She did not rest well last night. In the A.M. banked the house. After dinner went to McGills store on the B. River for candles, commenced freezing last night and continued all day, clear.
Tues 21 - Split wood in the morning. Mary went to her Father's with U. Mannings, cut cabbage and pounded it for sour crout. Went with Mr. McNider and filled two applications for Wm Saunders, took supper at Mr. Gordon's, brought Mary home in the eve. A beautiful day, the roads quite hard frozen. Mr. McNider lodged with us.
Wed 22 - Started early along with Mr. McNider and made out applications for J. McGill, Richard Dunn, Peter Pollica and 2 for Wm Cain. We did not get home until midnight. Dinner at Young's, supper at Pollica's. Snow commenced about 6 P.M. and continued until 9P.M. about 4 inches.
Thur 23 - Left home early with Mr. McNides and took applications for J McGill, Richard Dunn, Peter Poblica and 2 for Wm. Cain. We did not get home until midnight. Dinner at young's. Supper at Pollica's. snow commenced about 6P.M. and continued until 9 P.M. about 4 inches.
Thurs 23 - Left home early with Mr. McNider, and took applications from Frederick Broder, Scott Broder and Dr. Payne. We intended going down the B. River road to the village but we were out of applications and returned home after dinner. Mr. McNider went home and I cut wood. Weather mild and snow melting very fast.
Fri 24 - Assisted Mr. N. Manning butchering a cow which I had purchased half of, my half weighed 239 lbs of beef and 21 1/2 lbs of rough tallow. Snow almost all gone before dark. Rain the eve. Water in the well so we could dip a pail full for the first time this fall.
Sat 25 - In the forenoon cut wood and drew a load of sand from John McFees, brought Mr. McFee up with me, bought a quarter of a hog from J. McGill and salted it and the beef in the P.M. The frost all out of the ground and the roads quite soft. John McFee came up and spent the eve. With us. Showers afternoon.
Sun 26 - Went to the Methodist Church in the A.M. lent my Father $10.00 in cash and have him Mr. Barret's note for $10.00 and interest from July 1850. May & I went with N. M. down to Mr. Gordon's and back for a ride. Got home before dark. Occasional showers throughout the day and very high wind.
Mon 27 - Engaged cutting wood in the A.M. In the P.M. mixed plaster for the Buttery and cut wood. A cold day - the roads getting a little hardened with the frost. Promised to draw lines for George Fiddis on Wed and for a Frenchman tomorrow who is to bring my compass from the village.
Tues 28 - Looked over the line drawn on Lot no. 22, 4th range, Russeltown in the A.M. In the P.M. cut a little wood etc. Etc. weather moderated a little.
Wed 29 - Started early for Mr. G. Fiddis, , drew a line to part off 50 acres from the N. end of Lot no. 84, 2nd range, Hemmingford. Got through at sunset and home after dark. Had a call from James and the Miss Broders. A beautiful day, roads frozen a little.
Thur 30 - Started early and got to Mr. Fiddis at sunrise. Drew a line to part off 100 acres on the e. side of the remainder of lot no. 86, 2nd Range, Hemmingford. Finished at sunset. Weather pleasant in the morning. After 9 o'clock the wind blew a perfect hurricane with a snow storm. Very cold. Took dinner at Wm. O'Neil's.
DEC
Fri 1 - Cut wood in the forenoon. In the P.M. assisted Daniel to kill our pig. Mr. & Mrs. D. Gordon spent the eve. With us. A very cold day with wind not blowing so hard as yesterday. A Frenchman was found dead in his cart this A.M. on B.R. Road, supposed to be frozen.
Sat 2 - In the forenoon drew a line between lot no. 1 and 2, 4th range, Russeltown. Afternoon cut up the porker and repaired the windows to keep out the cold weather. Still very cold.
Sun 3 - Mary went to church along with her Mother and I remained at home all day. Cold in the forenoon. Snow commenced falling at 11 A.M. and continued all day.
Mon 4 - Cut wood under the shed at odd times during the day, assisted Mary in making shoes for Emma, an accident happened to the cow at N. M.'s barn. Still snowing, commenced drifting after dinner. The mail went up with a sleigh for the first time this season.
Tues 5 - Cut a little wood in the A.M. In the P.M. plastering the holes in the house. Clear in the A.M. and until 3PM when it again commenced snowing & drifting continued all day and very cold. Did not see a team on the road today.
Wed 6 - Engaged shoveling snow and breaking roads with N. Manning all A.M. after dinner went with N.M. to Contwell's store after tea and other necessarys, cut a little wood in the eve. Weather moderated with slight falls of snow throughout the day. (Mary's 23rd birthday)
Thurs 7 - Did nothing in the A.M. Was unwell all night. In the P.M. got Mr. McGill's cutter and drove Mary down to her Father's, also drove Mr. Gordon to Charles. He was not at home. Came back and got home at dark or a little after. Snow falling fast all day and in the eve the wind blew very hard and continued all night.
Fri 8 - Assisted James Manning in the Foundary for which he is to give me a plough point. A very cold stormy day. The road drifted full and almost impossible. Cut a little wood in the eve. The coldest day in the season as yet. D. Gordon & N. Manning had their ears frozen.
Sat 9 - In the A.M. Cut wood at the house, after dinner went to Mr. Fulton's to take an application for insurance but Robert was not at home so that nothing was done. A very fine day with every appearance of a storm. A light fall of snow in the eve. The mail that should have come yesterday did not come until today owing to the roads.
Sun 10 - At home all day. Did not go to church owing to the roads not being broken out. Warm and pleasant a good many sleighs passing in the P.M. Slight falls of snow.
Mon 11 - Left home after breakfast with D. Parham. Called on Charles and got to Mr. Morgan's at noon. Commenced a line on Lot No. 23, 1st range and ran 15 chains. Spent the eve with Messers & Mrs. Tee at Mr. Morgan's and slept there. A pleasant day with a light fall of snow afternoon.
Tues 12 - Continued the line run yesterday to the Province line. Was 15 ft astray, corrected it back 15 chains. A fine clear day but cold, snow about 12 in deep in the woods. Was quite unwell after getting to bed last night but got better in the morning. Slept at Mr. Morgan's.
Wed 13 - Finished the line by 11 o'clock and got to my Father's for dinner. Brought my cutter home. Father came with me to D. McClean's and Mick Dolley came home with me. Mary had been at L. Main's with Mr. & Mrs. McFee and Mrs. C. Gordon and returned a short time before me. A warm day, rain in the evening.
Thur 14 - Assisted D. Gordon to butcher a cow, cut wood in the evening. A cold day but warmer towards evening.
Fri 15 - In the forenoon went to St. Jean Chrysostome for oats and flour. Got home at 10 o'clock after dinner drove up to Mr. Conwell's and made out an application for him. A beautiful warm day. Snow thawing very fast. Freezing little in the evening.
Sat 16 - Cut wood the greater part of the day. In the evening drove down to J. McFees and took supper with Mr. & Mrs. D. M. Gordon, Mr. & Mrs. F. Parham, got home at 11:PM. A beautiful day and not too cold
Sun 17 - At home the greater part of the day. Took a drive with N. Manning to Mr. Ames and back. Did not go to church owing to the horse being smooth shod. A very cold day. Clear and fair.
Mon 18 - Left home after breakfast. Took an application from Robert Fulton, went to the post office. Got the horses shoes removed by J. Wright. Home by 10 o'clock, cut wood and in the evening drove to Mr. Gordon's and had a goose and turkey supper. Weather same as yesterday. Got about two inches of snow last night.
Tues 19 - Engaged making a hen coop and patching up the stable to keep out the cold weather. Clear and calm but I think it froze the hardest of any day this season.
Wed 20 - Cut wood in the forenoon. After dinner went with N. Manning to my father's for sled runners. Brother James came there from Quebec. Not so cold as yesterday. Found Mr. McNider waiting for me when I got home.
Thurs 21 - Started early with Mr. McNider. Made a great many calls, took one application from Cole McFuard, put up for the night at Stewarts English River. Warm & pleasant in the forenoon. In the afternoon a snow storm and very cold.
Fri 22 - Left Stewart's before sunrise and came round by the creek (had my nose frozen). Took dinner at C. Gordon's, got home at 3P.M. where I found Mother, James & George, had a pleasant visit with them the coldest day of the season. Thermometer 40 below zero.
Sat 23. Drove Mr. McNider up to Mr. Arne's. got back before noon. Found Mr. & Mrs. Gordon, Master & Mrs. McFee, Mr. & Mrs. McGilton and Clark had a good chat over matters and things. Cut wood in the eve. Almost as cold as yesterday. Warmer in the evening.
Sun 24 - Mary & I went to the Stone church with Mr. & Mrs. Manning. Heard Mr. Ritchie preach. A very slow speaker. After dinner had a call from Clark & T. Saunder's. A great change in the weather since yesterday. Occasional showers of rain and snow.
Mon 25 - Christmas Day. Went over to my Father's and met all the Edward's Family except Tay, had a very pleasant party conducted on Main Law principles. Got home at 10 o'clock. Heavy rain last night continued all day. Snow falling in the evening.
Tues 26 - Cut wood in the forenoon. After dinner went to C. Gordon's called at Mr. Gordon on the way down. Saw Mr. & Mrs. Main and Mrs. Toomas, spent the eve at Charle's. Got home at 10 o'clock. The thaw still continues, freezing a little in the eve.
Wed 27 - Commenced making a wood sled. In the afternoon had Hugh O'Neil at it but he had rather much whiskey in him to be of much use. Had very heavy rain this morning still thawing and a very thick mist. Had a call from Mr. Main and family on their way home.
Thurs 28 - Continued assisting Hugh O'Neil at the sled. Clark drove Mr. Toomis up and went home immediately after. The day still continued snow, not going off very fast.
Fri 29 - In the A.M. finished the sled of H. O'Neil. Went home in the P.M., cut and drew two loads of wood from J. A. Gordon's lot. Rather a cold day. High wind and hard frost at night.
Sat 30 - In the AM assisted N. Manning butcher a cow in the P.M. cut the wood drawn yesterday. C. Gordon drove Mr. Toomis up to Chateauguay. A beautiful day, but cold.
Sun 31 - In the AM, went to church, heard Mr. Wilson preach. Had a call from Mr. & Mrs. N. Manning and O'Parham in the afternoon and evening. A very pleasant day. Cold & clear with west wind.