January 1863

1. New Years Day. A fine though very cold day. An unpleasant thing today had grieved me much. I must guard better in future. Miss Hale, Miss Mackey spent the night here. Miss Brewer, Clark Shackleford sat till bedtime. Cold night.
2. Very cold. We killed four hogs today. Mrs. and Miss Finley spent the day here. Lizzie and her sister spent it at Mr. Hale's.
3. Cloudy and warm. We dried away our lard and ground sausage-meat. Julia Hale paid off her husband's note of $12.25 today. Miss Kate and B. went to church today. Few persons there. A soldier spent the night here.
4. 1st Sabbath. Cold day. L. and B. went to church. I am quite unwell today with a cold. M. has a sick headache. The girls went this evening to Mr. Patterson's.
5. Very cold. I am much better this morning, went with Virgil to see Mr. Dupree about getting corn. He asks $2 per bushel, which I think out of all reason. I did not engage any, as we think we can make out, on what we have. There never was so much extortion known of before, yet I did not expect it of him. Passed a pleasant day with the family whom I have long wished to visit.
6. Rainy day. Remodeled a dress. Bought Dick's corn.
7. Variable weather. L. preparing to go home with her sister.
8. Very cold. The girls started early this morning to meet the boat at Dublin. It came and they went on board, but I fear it will be night when they reach Perkin’s landing. Mr. McNeely came about 2 o'clock for Kate. His wife, he says, is no better. Thinks she is wasting away with consumption.
9. Hat making. Pleasant day. C. Shackleford returned from Ga. bringing the remainder of my rolls. He also brought letters from Mary and Maggie. They had a serious time Maggie wrote, with sickness, but now are getting up again. She sent me a present of stocking yarn. Joseph has returned to his company tho’ not well yet.
10. Rainy morning, and rained all night, I think. O. spent the night with Mrs. Brewer.
11. 2nd Sabbath. Clear and beautiful day. O. had the misfortune to get her foot burnt this morning, but not badly, I hope. Y. went to Cedar Hill to hear M. Lucy preach. This has been a quite serene Sabbath day with no one present, but our own family. I enjoy such days so much. It reminds me of old times.
12. Pretty day. Hat-making. The old man, who stayed here last week returned tonight. He says they are having rough times there with the union men, and deserters from the army. They are going to resist the law and have already killed two men, and are plundering the secession party; this is what I have long feared, that a Tory Party would be formed which will be more dreadful to us than the Yankees.
13. Cold morning. The Boat brought us wounded soldiers and the news that our army at Murphreesboro after whipping the enemy, had to retreat to Shelbyville on account of the Yankees reinforcing. Several of the 19th are wounded; it was a great battle, our killed said to be 8,000 while that of the enemy was 5 times as great.
14. Cloudy. I went over to see Mr. Patterson this morning, who is going to rejoin his regiment. We sent Thomas's shoes by him. I went this evening to Mr. Hays's; a blistering day and night, wind from the South west.
15. Still high winds. I planted onion buttons and lettuce seed this morning; a great deal of rain today, I fear the waters will get up, which will be an advantage to the enemy, as they can then run their gun boats.
16. Excessively cold. Hat-making. Light snow falling.
17. Still very cold. C.’s foot mending a little.
18. 3rd sabbath. As white a frost as I ever saw. It looks like snow. I and O. passed the day with Mrs. Rudd and daughters, an unusual thing for me to do on the Sabbath; I think it far from right. A small place on my forehead which I hurt at least ten years ago and which has been well for nearly five years, has been feeling sore for a day or two. I do not understand it; Mr. Warren's negroes stayed here tonight on their way to Dublin. Something warmer.
19. Cloudy with east winds. Hat-making. O. weaving.
20. Rainy. A great deal of rain last night. Some appearance of fair weather this evening: M. Mackey called today.
21. Cold and cloudy. I went with Virgil to Hale's and settled Columbus's and my own account with him; I paid $42.67 for C. using his own money. J. Trippe came after me this evening as Virginia is sick. She has a boy. I went and found her and babe doing very well; her sister-in-law is sitting with her.
22. Pretty day. V. and babe doing very well. John hauling rock today from the mountain
23. Warm. Working on my dress. J. fixed his fire-place today. His father and sisters called this evening.
24. Colder. V. had a chill this morning and a high fever today, which I do not like much, I received a letter from T. He is near Vicksburg in in good health. The enemy are making savage attempts to take that place, it is the only place we have now on the Mississippi. May they fail to do so.
25. Fine weather. V. better. Mrs. Morgan sent to John today to get him to see Marcellus, about going into the service for a month in Mr. M.’s place, as she is sick and alone and wishes him to come home. I hardly suppose M. will go, as he must soon go in his own place, Mrs. Lybass came to see us.
26. 4th Sabbath. Fine day. V. and babe getting on very well. I went this evening to see Mrs. M.; Mrs. Harnal about the [?]
27. Warm. M. came down to see me about his going. I do not like for him to go, but he must do as he likes; he then went to see Mrs. M., and made an agreement with her, she is to bear expenses and give him $30. He came back and J. returned home with him to prepare him to start in a few days; I was sorry to leave Virginia. Found all well at home; rainy night, breaking cornland.
28. Still inclement, Virgil took B. down to stay awhile with V. She is not so well this morning as the babe troubled her last night a good deal. Making a shirt for M. Commenced snowing this evening. Very cold.
29. Extremely cold. We killed our two last hogs. We have now over 1600 lbs. of pork, enough to do us, I hope. Finished the lard and sausage-meat today. Snowing a little today
30. Still very cold. Preparing thread for the loom, which O. bought last week at Mr. Hale’s who got it in Tenn. She gave $14.40 for enough to warp 60 yds. of cloth. Also getting M. ready as he speaks of starting tomorrow. I ironed and marked his clothes this morning. I much doubt his being received in Mr. M.’s place, who is a very stout man. He is plowing today
31. Cold and somewhat cloudy. Marcellus went early to Mr. Morgan's and brought the horse he is to ride to Tenn. Then after an early dinner he bade us farewell and started; it is a long journey for one so young to take by himself. Ah me! how dreadful are the times when one so innocent as he must go into camps and suffer for the guilty. May the Lord go with him, and shield him from all evil and danger. Today two months ago, we took our last look at poor Columbus the victim of war. it may be that we have done so with Marcellus, but the good Lord forbid. May he return to his home in health and peace. I warped 20 yds. of thread this evening. I am sorry that I could not attend the missionary meeting to be held today at Yellow Creek.

February 1863

1. 1st Sabbath. Rainy day. I think of M. in his mountain journey for he intends crossing Sand Mountain today. He feared the creeks would get high. A soldier called to warm this morning. He belongs to a Cavalry company, who are collecting deserters and rendezvous at the Camp ground. John brought B. home. Sis and the babe are getting on finely, they say.
2. Clear fine morning. I sent Virgil and Dick to get cedars to set out at Columbus's grave They brought 16 fine ones. We set them out in two rows. We also set out several rows of fruit trees there, as we wish to have a grove. I visited Mrs. B. I warped 25 Yds. of thread this morning. Getting cloudy.
3. The ground covered with snow, and severely cold. If M. has good luck he will end his journey today. It must be severely cold where he is. He has had a bad time of it indeed.
4. Cloudy and cold. Commenced snowing again this evening with high winds from the east; a bitterly cold night. O. called at Mr. Phipps's and Mr. Hays. The people are getting jubilant now with the thought of an early peace. It is thought the French government will be compelled to recognize us soon as her people are in great distress and must have cotton.
5. The deepest snow I have seen for several years, at least 4 inches. The boys went rabbit hunting and found our missing sow and shoats. They are very thin, it is hardweather on stock that have no shelter. We are well situated in that respect for ours are well sheltered. We have a lamb, but it is in its house, Safe from the windy storm and tempest.
6. Very cold and cloudy. Much surprised this evening by the arrival of Lizzie and her brother, bringing her babe a corpse. It died on the 4th after a severe illness. The Drs. could not tell what ailed it, but a head disorder, I suppose. It never was well, and it probably never would have been. Miss J. Patterson stayed with us tonight. Bitter night.
7. Still cold. The snow melts but only in exposed situations. Mr. Hudgens making a case for the coffin, Mrs. and Miss Hays here. Mr. Hays superintends the digging of the grave. We shall not bury the child today. Heard today that the Conscript officers has taken J. Trippe but hope it is not true; he has offered himself twice, and been refused on account of being near-sighted, it is hard to take him now. The Miss Hale's spent the night with us.
8. 2nd Sabbath. Something warmer. We this morning buried the babe by the side of Columbus and shortly afterwards L. and her James left, taking B. along with them. The Miss Hale’s left also. John came to dinner. It is true he is conscripted and has to start Thursday; is not pleased at the idea at all. V. wants me to come on Thursday and help her sew; the snow is melting fast today.
9. Still cold. O. and I put in a piece of cloth today and commenced weaving. Warmer.
10. Cloudy and getting warm. V. and I. went down to Johns. Miss Mountain, Miss C. Trippe, also there. We got through with the sewing. Virginia and her babe doing well, but V. is much depressed with the idea of John leaving; the snow is melting fast. Mr. Neely dined here; John spent the night here; he is trying to find Capt. Echols.
11. Pleasant I settled with Mr. Brewer, who is also conscripted and has to start tomorrow. The people of this vicinity have got up a petition to E. Gardner to detail him back as our blacksmith; there will be none in less than 5 miles.
12. Warm with hard rains today. Mr. Clark the tax collector spent the night here.
13. Clear and pretty day. I paid my tax this morning and also that of Thomas; Marcellus arrived this evening in good health. The Major would not take him in Mr. M. place, who wished to came home very much; his wife also will be disappointed. Thomas 20th birthday.
14. Cloudy. Mrs. Finley sent for me this morning but I cannot go. I sowed beets, radish, and cabbage seeds. O. spent the day at Col. Hale's. Stephen is mending. Our people are still gaining victories over the enemy, but they have finished their canal at Vicksburg and are running their boats. Our forces are ready for them, whenever they want a fight.
15. 3rd Sabbath. Rainy.
16. Cloudy. I went to Mr. Finley's; spent the day. Mr. Neely came here this evening. A night of incessant rain.
17. A close rainy day. I fear we will have a great freshet.
18. Another night of incessant rain, I think. Mr. N. left this morning. some appearance of fair weather.
19. Pleasant weather. I got out my cloth today.
20 Pretty day. We drew in another web of cloth and resumed weaving. Fine day. I hope we shall have good weather awhile now.
21. Commenced raining again this morning. Mrs. B. sent for me. She gave birth to a son, a fine boy too; Mrs. Hays, Mrs. Rudd, there.
22. 4th Sabbath. Getting windy and cold. A great deal of rain has fallen and the waters are up high. O. spent the day at Mr. Patterson's.
23. Very cold.
24. More pleasant. B. and L. came today by the Boat. She left her mother in better health than usual; I sowed peas and other seeds today; J. Trippe also came down in the Boat. He has now his third discharge, but it will hardly save him from the next conscript officer. Pretty evening. He is sick.
25. Fine morning, but commenced raining this evening. The 27th anniversary of my marriage. Went to see Mrs. B.
26. Inclement weather. Commenced shirt-making.
27. Still rainy. The earth is now full of water and farmers have little chance to prepare for making a crop.
28. Still rainy. Did not go to Yellow Creek today. The smallpox is said to be in Centre now. I fear it will yet spread over the country in spite of vaccination.

March 1863

1. 1st Sabbath. Clear this morning and windy. B., L. and M. went to church; no preaching. O. unwell with cold.
2. Pretty weather. O. still unwell. Making shirts for Marcellus.
3. Cloudy. B. and L. spent the day at Mr. Hale's. They heard that John Trippe is very sick with pneumonia. Virgil's birthday and the 4th anniversary of Virginia’s marriage.
4. Very cold. Virgil took B. down to stay awhile with V. John is much better, but still quite sick. I finished weaving.
5. Still cold. L. and myself spent the day with Mrs. Truitte very pleasantly. O. suffering with tooth-ache. Warmer.
6. Rainy. I commenced a basket of vine-leaf. O. better today.
7 . Still rainy and warm. A storm of wind tonight with thunder and lightning. M. went to Centre. Finished my basket--a very nice one.
8. 2nd Sabbath. Showery. Virgil went after Berenice; O. and L. went to Mr. Patterson's this evening. B. and V. returned. John is better, but Virginia is sick with diarrhea; I fear it will go through the family . A stormy night, the Heavens ablaze with lightning.
9. Still rainy. The earth is flooded with water; commenced sewing for Virginia.
10. Still inclement. The waters are getting very high.
11. Some appearance of clear weather. Heard of the death of Stephen Hale. B. and L. went to see how they are getting on at John's. Found J. and V. both up, but the negro girl sick, I and Miss Brewer went to Hale's this evening. M. and L. sat up there tonight with the corpse.
12. Clear and cold. B. and Virgil attended the burial this evening. Hat-making.
13. Very cold, Had house-cleaning. Miss B. called.
14. Clear and warmer. Mr. Neely dined here. B. and L. went to Mr. Davis's to attend at Shady Grove tomorrow. Planted potatoes today. O. has toothache.
15. 3rd Sabbath. Cloudy and warm. Spring like weather.
16. Clear and pretty day. We put our bacon down in ashes. I planted onion buttons today.
17. Fine weather. We put in a piece of blanketing for Marcellus, who will soon start to the army. Bedded our potatoes.
18. Fine warm day. I went to Patterson’s this morning and got some money changed; went to Mr. Hays this evening and settled with him.
19. Very warm. Heard of the death of Robert Espy's child. The girls went to the burial this evening. Commenced planting corn; Columbus's birthday, but he is not here to see it. Two years ago he arrived here from La. for his last time.
20. Rainy and getting cold. Made a blanket for Marcellus .
21. Still cloudy. B. and O. went to Cedar Hill to attend quarterly meeting. Only one preacher in attendance.
22. 4th sabbath. Still cloudy. O. and L. and the boys went to the meeting. Still but one preacher; good congregation. Went this evening with B. and L. to visit the graves of my mother and sister. This sabbath two years ago, I visited them in company with Columbus,
23. Showery. O. went to Mr. Truitte's this evening. B. and L. to see Mr. Patterson, who has returned from Vicksburg on account of bad health; he brought a letter from T., who expects to be at home the last of the week; the health of the army is said to be good.
24. Still showery. A storm of wind this evening with heavy rain.
25. Clear and cool. Got out my cloth. Received a letter from Margaret Espy today. They are in good health at present
26. Clear pretty day. B. and L. spent it at Mr. Finley's. O. came home this evening--had a pleasant visit.
27. Fine day. A fast ordered by the president; no preaching near us; I went this evening to see Mr. Patterson; he looks badly.
28. A great deal of rain last night, and still rainy; a letter from Thomas; he will not be at home for some time yet. The Yankees are leaving Vicksburg which they have found to be impregnable and will concentrate somewhere else. May a higher power turn them back to their own country and leave us in peace which is all we desire.
29. 5th Sabbath. Cloudy with high eastern winds and cold. O., and B. and M. went to Col. Hale's to see James, who is just returned and will soon leave again for the seat of war. I spent some time today reading over old letters of my old friends Mrs. Price and Mrs. Smith; while thus engaged I was buried in the past amid pleasant recollections of my young years; it would take many volumes to record all that has passed since that time. A traveler spent the night here.
30. Showery and cold. Capt. Echols called for an hour or two. He was not ready to settle the claims of Columbus, and does not know when he will be as the business has to be transacted at Richmond.
31. A real March day. Windy and cold. M. went with L. to Wilson's to examine a new kind of spinning wheel. O. went this evening to see Mr. Patterson. L. did not like the wheel.

April 1863

1. Clear pretty day, but windy. M. trimming and setting out apple trees. He will now soon have to leave the peaceful employments of home for the unhealthy and degrading life of a camp; for it seems there is not prospect now of peace soon, as the Northwest on whom we depended has failed for this time at least. The girls were sent for to Col. Hale's tonight and went.
2. Pretty morning. I sowed seeds. O. preparing thread for the loom. I never knew the wind to be higher than today.
3. Clear and cool. B. and L. and J. went to church. Elder Goss preached. I handed $5 to Capt. Truitte for Elder Hood.
5. 1st Sabbath. Pretty day. B., L., V. and I went to church. Few persons there; I went with L. to see Mr. P. this evening. He is better. Thomas arrived tonight in good health.
6. Clear and windy. O. drew in her cloth today. A year ago this afternoon Columbus was wounded at the battle of Shiloh; this evening a gay party passed by his place of rest, unthinking perhaps, who lay there, and who was once as gay as themselves; it consisted of three Miss Mackey's, Miss Hale and our own girls on their way to attend a party at Capt. Truitte’s.
7. Getting dry. The girls returned this morning much pleased with their party. They dined here, and went to see Mr. Patterson.
8. Clear and windy. Mr. Davis came to hear from his brother at Vicksburg; we planted red Irish potatoes in the garden this evening.
9. Still clear and cool. Hat-making. A few days ago B. received from Miss Cornelia Prier, a cousin of hers with whose mother I was very intimate in youth, and with whom I corresponded in after years; this young lady never heard of B. till the 29th of March, when her mother was led to look over my letters, a similar impulse led me on that same day to read over her letters. Strange coincidence! that friends so long parted should be moved in the same way at the same time.
10. Clear and cool.
11. Getting dry. Parson Nicholson spent the night here.
12. 2nd Sabbath. Cool morning. Virginia and family came today. John is looking very badly and has a bad cough; he has to attend at Gadsden on the 14th as the board of army surgeons meet then to decide who shall go into the service. He has a hard time with them. The baby is the finest kind of a child. They went to preaching at Cedar Hill with our young folks. They left Vivia here, as Sis is to go with John to Gadsden.
13. Pretty day. I went with T. and L. to see Cousin Agnes today; found all well. Rain tonight.
14. Rainy day. Set out cabbage plants this evening.
15. Cloudy. O. and I hat-making.
16. Clear pretty weather. Our salt came today. I get 73 lbs this time. Planted our I. potatoes today.
17. Pretty day. Hat-making. Miss Hays visited us this evening. Heard today that the Board again refused John, which I suppose will be final until some new card is turned up. Mrs. Truitte came to see Thomas, and hear from her husband.
18. Fine weather. The trees are putting out very fast now. T., L. and C. went to Shady Grove; finished corn planting. Also planted a good deal of sugar-cane.
19. Beautiful morning. M. went to Shady Grove. John came for Vivia. Still looks badly. The board dismissed him for three months; rain this evening. Mr. Davis sent M. and O. home. T. and L. went to Mr. Thornton's. I went to Mr. Hays's this evening.
20. Pretty day. Hat-making. T. and L. came home this evening.
21. Fine weather. Vegetation is coming on rapidly; T. and L. started to her mother's. Mr. Hays came today and sheared my sheep; had a fine turnout of wool. B. went to Col. Hale’s.
22. Cloudy. Miss Finley, Miss Gray, who is a relation of mine, spent the day here. A pretty rain today. Making pants for Marcellus.
23. Fine day. Mr. Patterson called this morning. On next Sabbath at 3 o'clock -Columbus’ funeral is to be preached by Elder Hood. The girls went this evening to Mr. Stimpson's.
24. Pretty weather. This afternoon Thomas and Lizzie arrived. It is thought her Mother cannot survive much longer, she is now not able to sit up any and is fast sinking. M. waited on Dr. Sparks and paid my bill for C's sickness---$32 in all.
25. Fine day and a busy one to us, as the boys are going to start on Monday and we must get them ready today; we packed Columbus trunk for them. (T. having lost his). I am strongly reminded of the time when I packed it before in ‘59. A La. soldier spent the night here. The Miss Hale's the afternoon.
26. 4th Sabbath. Beautiful day. Mr. and Mrs. Davis came this morning. Elder Hood, John and Sis to dinner; we all went to Yellow Creek and Elder Hood preached the funeral sermon of Columbus from Hebrews 9th Chapter 27th verse. “And as it is appointed once to man to die, but after this the judgment;” he made a good discourse to the largest congregation I have seen since the war commenced. He also spent the night with us. Commenced raining tonight. I am much grieved to part with M. who is such a fine boy, to perhaps sicken and die in camp-life, or fall in battle. May the good Lord forbid, and bring them to their home in peace ‘ere long.
27. Rainy morning. The boys left early, Dick driving them in a light wagon to Oxford where they will take the cars. They wish to reach Jacksonville tonight; it was a serious thing to see M. start, but then he is with his brother, and I ought to be contented. If they can only have health. I will be contented. Clearing off this evening, but hard rains again tonight.
28. Still inclement. A letter came today for T. from Dr. Garland, tie superintendent of the Military Academy at Tuscaloosa, to whom T. had written proposing to get M. into the school at the next sitting of the board which will be on the 5th of June. The Dr. thinks there is no doubt of M. getting the appointment and advises that he should not enter the service till the decision of the Board can be known. Too late, for M. is before this a member of 31st , I presume!
29. Showery morning, but clear by 12:00. Dick got back and says it rained on them nearly all the time; was in a storm on Monday night; I went to Hale’s with Mrs. B. this evening to see about getting copperas; I forwarded the letter to T. today.
30. Fine day. O. took L. down to Dublin, at which place she took the Boat for her Mother; a great deal now to do, in the garden which looks finely; hat-making; we sent off by M. what hats we had on hand and must replenish our stock.

May 1863

1. Beautiful day for Mayday. The young people have a picnic on the mountain today. B. and O. went. Had a large party. Miss O. Finley was crowned queen of May, had a pleasant time.
2. Fine weather. Went with B. to Yellow Creek; few persons there. I little thought when I lay down that ‘ere the Sabbath dawned my peaceful slumbers would be disturbed by a cry of war, but so it was. Peggy, a hired woman at Patterson's came about 3 o'clock to tell us that the Yanks were at their house in large numbers, had taken their horses and were very insolent; this is dreadful; we lay down no more for we expected them every moment, but as a merciful God would have it they did not come.
3. 1st Sabbath. A fine morning. Additional news of the devastation committed by the enemy; they burnt everything Mr. Blount had except his dwelling, took his mule and was there overtaken by Forrest's Cavalry and an action took place between them; the Yanks ran wild and were so hotly pursued that they could not tarry long in this vicinity; they took every mule Mr. Finley had, also Mr. Truitte's and then went on and burned the Iron works , which has been lately largely improved; they are now at Chattooga river, and we hear the booming of cannon, for our men have again overtaken them; nearly every man in this neighborhood has followed after them; the desolating scourge burst on us all in a moment. Later. Some of our citizens have returned and bring the welcome news of the capture of the enemy 4 miles above Cedar Bluff at the Widow Lawrence, there they had stopped to refresh themselves. 1400 prisoners are taken, and the horses and mules recaptured. O. and Miss Hays spent the night with Mrs. Truitte, who is alone---Mr. T. having gone after his mules.
4. Warm. B. opened her school this day at Yellow Creek. A. Espy, who is at home on furlough called.
5. Still warm. O. came home this morning. Mrs. T. is much excited this evening, sent runners to tell us the Yankees are at Dr. White’s--15,000 strong and will pass through here tonight; all is dismay and confusion; people hiding their property; the few men who are left here will conceal themselves for it is said they are hanging all between 15 and 45. V. lay out, Dick also. I cannot say I was much alarmed, but I looked for them every moment. The night was bright moonlight and passed peacefully.
6. Warm. B. went to school, but soon returned. A boy came to tell her the enemy are at hand; a gentleman passed, who contradicted it. The day passed quietly; it is now supposed to be the trick of some union men below here to frighten the people. The Lord forbid they ever should come here again. Turning cool.
7. Very cool and cloudy. We learn that no such army were in the country at all, but it was the diabolical prank of the union people; our men who went to Rome for their stock have not returned. John came tonight. The people in his neighborhood were much excited.
8. Still cloudy, but no rain, and very cool. I started a letter to James with $15, which I had collected of Jacob Tucker, by Mr. James.
9. Clear and pleasant. Our men have returned from Rome without getting their stock. Col. Forrest giving them the broken down cavalry stock instead. This is bad, but I suppose it might have been worse. I went to Mr. Phipps’s and bought spts. of turpentine.
10. 2nd Sabbath. A beautiful serene May morning. M. nature reposes blissfully and seems to reproach the warring spirit of man for the confusion now prevailing and the devastation now committing. O. and Virgil went to Sabbath School at Cedar Hill which is being organized there. Virginia came with the baby and little negro-boy; we went to preaching this evening at Cedar Hill.
11. Dry and warm. Mr. Patterson called; I made a season and set out cabbage plants; engaged in weaving.
12. Warm. I went with Mrs. B. to Hale's to see about our thread, for which we sent bacon to get at Boswell mills, Ga.; They rasceled us, and only sent a little thread, paying money for the bacon; I got 2 bunches which cost me 14 dollars each; times are hard indeed, but may they be no worse; Mr. Davis has got home, I learn, but has sent no letters from the boys; there has been hard fighting at Vicksburg, Gen. Tracy killed, and Col. Hanley taken prisoner; this is bad for T. and M. as he was their friend. Gen. Van Dorn, also killed in a duel it is said.
13. Still dry and warm.
14. Very warm. O. unwell with neuralgia.
15. Cooler. I am not well myself. B. went home with the Glenn children to visit till Mon.
16. Still dry and cool. O. quite unwell today; we set out slips this evening by watering I visited Mrs. B.
17. 3rd Sabbath. Pretty morning, we found our best lamb dead this morning and it was the finest I ever saw; a considerable loss now that wool is worth $3 per lb. Virgil went to Sabbath School; John came with Vivia bringing the mule home.
18. Cool and no prospect of rain; Mr. Patterson called; a letter from the boys dated 3rd. They were well and M. was at the convalescent camp. T. not liking for him to go into a battle as he is undrilled. Gen. Tracy was killed on the 1st and Col. H. was wounded and in the hands of the enemy. They were still fighting. B. received a letter from Miss Price.
19. Still cool. I got out my cloth today. Wrote to the boys.
20. Pleasant. Mrs. Rudd went with me to Mrs. Morgan's to get wool; she holds her wool at $4.50 per lb. I got 1 lb. at $3. A letter came from the boys dated the 10th. M. has entered the service; he writes they had a tiresome time getting there; they are now at Warrenton near Vicksburg; not much to eat, and in front of the enemy, but in good health; God help them; how I would like to send them something good to eat; it is peculiarly hard on Tibby, for he never knew privation before; Thos. can favor himself a great deal.
21. Pleasant day; Mrs. Perkins who is a second cousin of mine, and Mrs. Finley, spent the day with us; had english-peas and beets today.
22. Still cool. O., who has not been well for some time, had a right bad spell this morning, complains of her throat very much and is otherwise much affected by cold; much shocked to hear of Col. Hale being burnt out last night; his commodious dwelling, kitchen and smoke-house all destroyed. He thinks it the work of an incendiary; either of the union men or deserters; there are plenty of them hiding on the mountain; I fear much mischief will be done by them. Commenced mixing wool and cotton, for the boys summer clothes.
23. Still dry. O. seems better today; we set out slips by watering.
24. 4th Sabbath. Clear and fine morning; a rain would be so acceptable now; still it is good for this wheat; the dry weather; no rust yet; news from the south that there never was so much wheat made before for the cotton lands are now in grain; it is thought there is enough made to supply the confederacy two years; B. and V. went to Sabbath-School and church. Mrs. B., Mrs. Isham here this evening.
25. Pleasant day; commenced spinning the mixed filling. O. improving but has a bad cough and is very weak.
26. Still dry. News by the boat that they are still fighting at Vicksburg.
27. Dry, but pleasant weather. Miss Rudd visited us this evening.
28. Wind from the east, another excitement; a body of negroes passed Patterson's today, and the citizens are after them; commenced raining this evening and it is welcome. B. dismissed her school till Monday.
29. Still rainy. I warped my thread today. O. not much better of her cough, and does not gain strength much.
30. Showery. Mrs. Truitte spent the day here. She had Mrs. Kyle's little boy with her; quite a pleasant child; Mrs. T. has no children of her own; sent a few things to the Hale family; advices from Vicksburg to the 23; the Yankees have made several assaults on the city, but was repulsed every time; with great loss too; a desperate attempt will be made to get that place as it is all they lack of having the entire length of the Mississippi. A mess of beans today.
31. 5th Sabbath. A beautiful morning. All nature seems revived, and vegetation which has been taking root deeply during the dry weather, is now growing most rapidly; accounts from all parts of the country state that the wheat never was finer; V. went to Sabbath-School; O. much better; Miss M. Shackleford called.

June 1863

1. Fine day. O. and I drew in our jeans and commenced weaving; it is very pretty; moon eclipsed tonight, but did not see it.
2. Pleasant weather. I let Mr. Patterson have a mule to convey a refugee from Corinth to Wills Valley; there are plenty of them in the country now; hunting homes; having had to flee from the Yankees.
3. Still fine weather; I never had a better garden; I think of M., who, while we, have so many vegetables, is doing without any, or anything else good to eat; I fear. Would the Lord strike confusion into the hearts of our enemies, and turn them back to their own country. Mrs. Hays spent the evening here.
4. Pleasant. Mr. P. called this evening; he thinks our wheat will be ready to cut on Monday. Our oats is also very good.
5. Rainy day. Mrs. J. Baines buried at Yellow Creek today. Virgil went round and engaged hands for harvest. The birthday of Marcellus; may all be well with him today.
6. Cloudy, but as the day advanced became clear, the boys helped Mr. P. and Mrs. B. with their harvesting; did not go to church.
7. 1st sabbath. Pretty morning; V. went to Sabbath-school; the girls to Yellow Creek; Parsons Goss and Hood both there; we finished the testament this morning's lesson; this evening we received the sad news of Tibby being wounded on the 18th of last month; through Mr. Means who was with him in the action; our men were fighting behind trees and there were several boys behind one tree -- M. of the number; seeing a tree not far off where he thought he would be better situated he ran for it, but as he reached it, Means heard him say, "Lord have mercy" and at the same time he fell. When M. looked again he had gotten up, and his next sight of him, was upon a horse and Thomas walking before him; M. thinks by that his wound was slight, but I awfully fear to the contrary; Poor fellow!!! his sufferings are great for the want of water and something that he can eat, if he is alive, what a mercy that Thomas was near at hand to attend to him. I cannot describe my feelings; I do not expect to hear from him soon, as the enemy is between us, and I much fear I shall not hear of him again in life. It was 3 weeks ago yesterday since he was wounded. God help us all. and send our cruel enemies back to their own country.
8. Pretty day. We commenced our harvest today. Mr. Rudd helping, Mr. Truitte, Mr. Hale, Mr. Glenn, Mr. Patterson also sent hands. Our wheat is good, also is our oats, for which I am thankful; I went to Dublin this evening to attend to the storage in V.'s place, but the boat did not come; it came at night and brought corn for soldier’s families.
9. Fine day. I dreamed last night, or rather this morning, that Thomas brought Tibby home in his coffin; when I waked I did not feel glad, as I usually do, that it was only a dream for I feared it was an awful reality. I will try to be patient, and wait a letter from Thomas. Cheering news comes now from Vicksburg, our forces are said to be victorious. Mrs. Nicholson and son spent the night here.
10. A close rainy morning. Our boys cutting oats this evening. Mr. Brewer came home today very sick.
11. Still rainy. A bad time for harvest. O. went round this evening and engaged some hands for Saturday. I went to see Mr. B.
12. Pretty day. Mr. Finley sent a hand today. Finished the seed wheat.
13. Pleasant day. Mr. Hays cut for us today. Mr. B. not any better. It seems we can get no news from Vicksburg. I called at Mr. Hale's this morning.
14. 2nd Sabbath. Beautiful morning. We commenced, as a class, reading the Book of Job. O. and Virgil went to Cedar Hill, from thence O. went to Mr. Mackey’s.
15. Fine weather. Mr. B. is improving.
16. Very warm. Got out my jeans. A fine piece of cloth too. It will have to lie till I hear from Tibby; Lizzie came this evening with Master McNair; her mother is much better. She has heard nothing of T. lately.
17. Warm. Getting cloudy.
18. Cloudy and very warm.
19. Cloudy. Hat-making. Went to see Mr. B. this morning. He is mending fast; finished our oats today.
20. Still very warm. O. and L. went to Shady Grove; A letter came from Dr. Garland dated 9th. He says M. was elected to a Cadetship in the Ala. University; poor fellow! it seems so unfortunate that he entered the service. Lizzie joined the Church today. I sent V. down there to bring the buggy back as we will want the mule tomorrow to convey the rest of us to attend the baptism; our other mule sick tonight; but I hope not much, however.
21. 3rd Sabbath. Rainy morning, but appeared like breaking off, and we started to Shady Grove, but had not gone far when it recommenced raining fast, and we came back and gave it up. It ceased again in a short time and is a pretty day. The girls came home this evening; not much at Mr. Davis's.
22. Fine pleasant day; spent the forenoon with Mrs. Rudd; went to Dublin this evening in company with Miss I. Patterson. The boat brought no news. From the last accounts Vicksburg is in close siege; a fight is also daily expected in Tenn. Making a hat for Vivia.
23. Fine day. O. and L. visited Mrs. Truitte this evening.
24. Cloudy. I visited Mrs. Hale today; they are now in their new house; quite comfortable but not like they have been situated. We are trying to arrange matters in order to get our part of Government salt; showery; the third anniversary of Mr. Espy's death.
25. Still cloudy. O. and myself went to see Virginia. Her children are not well; B. quite unwell with cold and pain in the breast.
26. Still rainy. I fear our grain which is still in the fields will be injured; we are getting much behind with our crops, for it rains so much we cannot work it; I let Dublin out to Mr. Hollis today; he is to give us half the profits; B. no better.
27. Inclement; B. sent and had Dr. Pratt to see her today. He thinks she is threatened with pneumonia, tremendous rains today. Mr. Patterson in this evening.
28. 4th Sabbath. Still cloudy, but cooler; O., L., and Virgil went to Cedar Hill. John and Virginia came today. Vivia is very proud of her hat, which is indeed a very pretty one.
29. Still cloudy and as it is too wet to plow I went with L. first to the tanyard where I purchased upper leather at $1.25 per lb., then to Mr. Howard's where we bought wool at $2 per lb. O. rested none tonight with toothache.
30. Cloudy; O. not any better. She and L. went to Centre to get her teeth drawn, but the Dr. was not at home; they saw a gentleman from Vicksburg, who saw Tibbie after he was wounded and says it was on!y a slight flesh wound, and that they had time enough to get to Vicksburg. This is cheering, for we feared they were prisoners. Showery.

July 1863

1. Still unsettled weather; Dr. Pratt came today and took out three teeth for O. also prescribed for B., who is better.
2. Still rainy; B. still improving; Mr. and Mrs. B. R. Espy and wife here this evening; we were startled again last evening with the news that the Yanks were coming on us, but it; was a mistake; it was our cavalry instead, for which we were thankful, rumours are easily started now.
3. Very warm and showery; B. mending; Mrs. Rudd, E. and C. Finley here this evening.
4. Showery; did not go to church today. Virgil unwell; O. and L. went to Mr. P's this evening; they sent me a fine treat of honey; news from Vicksburg is cheering; our forces are also pushing northwards; have taken several places in Pennsylvania and a general panic has seized the country at their approach.
5. 1st Sabbath. Warm. L. and I went to church; Elder Goss preached to a small congregation; P. called with a letter for Olivia.
6. Very warm. Hard rains this evening. Hat-making.
7. Sultry. Rains this evening. Misses Hale and Mackey spent the night here.
8. Cloudy with showers. Hat-making. Commenced hauling in wheat.
9. Very warm. Finished getting in our wheat. I helped pack it away; it is impossible to hire help now, men are so scarce. O. and L. went to Hale's to a public speaking. Dr. Ralls spoke; he is a candidate for Congress. I forgot to mention receiving a letter from Dr. Garland on the 7th in which he says that it is against their rules to keep open a place for Tibbie. I am sorry, but it may be for the best, heard this evening that Vicksburg has fallen, but hope it is not true.
10. Extremely warm. I visited Mrs. B. this evening.
11. Still warm; a soldier called, barefooted, and lame; we sent him a few miles on his way.
12. 2nd Sabbath. Warm. I went with O. to Cedar Hill. Parson Nicholson preached to a small congregation; it is now thought to be certain that Vicksburg has surrendered; I am anxious to hear farther, and at the same time afraid to hear. Fine rain today.
13. Showery. B. resumed her school. 2 Hat-making; B. went to Mr. Finley's tonight.
14. Still cloudy, and what is strange at this time of the year, quite smoky; it is said that Vicksburg has fallen, the garrison was starved out, having lived for some time on mule meat, and were so weak that they staggered on coming out like drunken men. [Something missing, unreadable]. Poor fellow! they suffered greatly; our officers were allowed to retain their property and our troops marched out with colors flying. Gen. Pemberton made his escape with 200 cavalry before the capture. I much fear he has not done his duty there. It seems that some of our generals are too fond of fortifying cities and then giving them up to the enemy.
15. Clear hot, smoky; I. Reeves came today for Lizzie; it is thought her mother nearly gone; I went this evening to see a traveling thrasher in operation, and to Mr. Hay's to see a sick child.
16. Smoke still continues; O. went to Mr. Truitt's; a refugee from Tenn. dined here; he intends stopping in this vicinity; a soldier also dined here; hat-making.
17. Warm and smoky; visited the child again this morning with Mrs. Rudd; it is much worse and died this evening; the roads are full of Refugees and soldiers; Rome is being fortified. 10,000 troops are quartered there; it is said the enemy have also taken Charleston, and are bombarding Chattanooga; it seems they are straining every nerve to crush us, and the death struggle!e is now to be made; would an all-powerful God stand up for our help, they would yet be put to confusion; but it seems he has given us over into the hand of our cruel foe.
18. Getting dry; O. came home this morning; she had plaited shucks and Mrs. T. made her a beautiful hat and trimmed it quite fancifully; I went to Mr. Hays's to assist in preparing the child for burial; commenced plaiting straw for a hat; Mr. P. called; the girls went to Mr. Davis's.
19. 3rd Sabbath. Still smoky. V. went to Sabbath School; it is very quiet here today with no one but V. and I. I wish it would rain. The girls came back this evening.
20. Warm; I called at Mr. P's and also went to the tanyard; 20 soldiers camped here tonight. I did not like it much, for I have no forage to spare; still I would rather they had it than the enemy, and we are looking for them daily, but may the good Lord forbid them to come.
21. Cloudy and two pretty showers today; two soldiers here tonight; there is great excitement among the people at the rumoured approach of the foe, and the wealthy are preparing to leave, taking their slaves with them; it is said that 10,000 have crossed the Tenn. on their way to Rome and will of course, pass through this county; it would be a great distress to me to have to leave my home and be a wanderer. I have no idea of trying it, but will stay here trusting in God to preserve me and my helpless family from the hand of violence.
22. Very warm; finished Virgil's hat; he is well pleased with it, the excitement increases among the people and I fear that some people will injure themselves.
23. Warm. The neighbors helped us thresh wheat today, but we did not finish owing to the breaking of the shaft. On this day last year Columbus left us for the last time, and when we saw him again he was sick and pale, and did not look like himself.
24. Still warm. Mr. B. worked on our thresher this morning; had house-cleaning today; many soldiers passing.
25. Very warm; finished our wheat; I visited some refugees this evening by the name of Pyron who have stopped in this neighborhood, was pleased with them; Mr. De Lisle, Gen. Harper, Dr. Arlington spent the night here; John and Virginia also came, and about ten to our great joy Thomas and Marcellus reached home. M. is nearly well of his wound, but is pale and thin; he was wounded in the back by a minie ball from a cross fire; the ball came out where it went in, owing to having struck against the spine, which no doubt, saved his life; T. also is very thin and is not well; they suffered a good deal at Vicksburg, but, not so bad as we had heard; the place was surrendered on the 4th July, and they remained then till the 11th before their turn came to be paroled; the army had to march across the state of Mississippi as Johnston was compelled to have the railroad. T. had a horse, and he and M. got on very well; The Yankees treated them very well; how I wish this awful war would end but the prospect is gloomy now.
26. 4th Sabbath. Warm day. Virginia and Olivia and Vivia went to Cedar Hill. Two soldiers dined here; a good many friends came in today to see the boys and hear the news. A fine rain tonight, but not near enough.
27. Very warm; Several in today; we looked for L. by the Boat, but she did not come.
28. Still warm; V. and Dick started to mill at Galesville this evening. T. started to Mr. McNeely's. The girls at Mr. Hale's and Mr. P. came this evening. M. is very languid and is far from being well.
29. Somewhat cloudy. We are needing rain very much now; sowed cabbage seeds; Mr. Truitte called; the boys came from mill; had good luck and got fine flour.
30. Very warm. M. went down to John’s; a shower this evening. Making pants for M.
31. Still warm. M. came home this evening; John does not start to the army till next week. T. came back this evening. L. will be down on the next boat.

August 1863

1. Very warm. T., B., and myself went to Yellow Creek, Elder H. there; but did not preach, as there were so few people; he came with us to dinner and he and T. went to Mr. Truitte's and spent the night. A fine rain this evening. O. sold a dozen hats today at $2 a piece.
2. 1st Sabbath. Cloudy. Our class read this morning beginning with the 14th of Job. It has been some time since M. read this with me. The young people went to church. T. preached to a large congregation. A tremendous rain came on as they came home; M. and Mrs. Pyron, Mr. and Mrs. Davis, Mr. L. Davis, Mrs. Hays and daughters, Mrs. Whitton took dinner here.
3. A very warm day. T. and M. went to the election. Mr. G. Davis came after Olivia to go to his uncle's to visit his sister. M. met Lizzie this evening at Dublin and brought her home; she says the children grieved at her leaving them for they will be lonely now their mother is gone--poor things!
4. Still warm. At work on a hat for Virginia.
5. Sultry; L. and myself visited Mrs. Pyron this evening. O. came home. Thunder clouds.
6. Still warm. Sowed turnip-seed this morning. Rain today.
7. Cloudy. T. and L. started to Georgia to visit the relations there. Mrs. Finley sent for me, and I passed the day with her. People are now holding themselves in readiness to leave the country whenever they hear of the approach of the enemy. I do not feel like I wish to do that, but feel more like trying to stay at home and take whatever Providence may send; I do not know where I could go, or how, with so large a family and no one to lead for us. It will be ruin to either go or stay, I fear. Rainy.
8. Very warm. M. and the girls went to a party at Mr. Truitte's. Parson Goss spent the day here, they are going to move to Georgia; M. returned this evening. Our old dog Neptune was killed today.
9. 2nd Sabbath. Clear morning. Mrs. Pyron here this evening. The girls came home; some soldiers here tonight.
10. Warm. Filled our dryers with peaches.
11. Sultry. At work on a shirt for M. He is improving now in his looks, but he hurt his wound yesterday and it is now sore again. A traveler here tonight. A great rain today.
12. Warm. Made Virginia's hat.
13. Sultry. T. and L. came home this evening much pleased with their Ga. trip. Left the relatives well. Mrs. Mackey spent the day here. A good deal of rain today.
14. Very warm. Making pants for Virgil.
15. Still very warm. Capt. and Mrs. Truitte spent the lay here. T. went to Shady Grove. Parson Goss was assaulted and badly hurt by T. Davis this morning, we learnt.
16. 3rd Sabbath. Sultry day. T., L., and B., and Y. went to Shady Grove. M. returned to dinner. Good congregation, he says; T. preached. Rain this evening. The others did not return.
17. Warm. T. and L. returned this morning. Soldiers called and demanded food for their horses, and I had to furnish it. We refilled our dryers with fruit. Mrs. Pyron visited us this evening.
18. Still warm. Making jacket for Marcellus.
19. Warm. Mrs. P. spent the day with us; O. went home with her. A gentlemen and little girl here tonight.
20. Very warm. Miss Hale, Miss Mackey here this evening.
21. Cloudy. A fast-day appointed by the President; we went to Shady Grove. T. preached to a small congregation.
22. Very warm. Put out more fruit; the boys were arranging things to start back on Monday but orders have come for them to meet at Blue Mountain on the 21st. I am glad of that for one week more will be an advantage to M. whose wounds are not well yet; B. and L. visited Mrs. P. this evening.
23. 4th Sabbath. Sultry. O. B., and M. went to Cedar Hill. Mr. Pyron called this evening. O., B., and M. went to Mr. B.’s this evening.
24. Very warm and dry. Parson Lucy buried this morning at Cedar Hill with Masonic honors. Marcellus and the girls attended; he saw Lieut. Davis there, and their orders now are to start to the seat of war on Thursday. T. came home tonight. Put out our last peaches this evening.
25. Still dry and warm. Rain this morning and getting cooler. Getting the boys ready for their start. Making starch.
26. Cooler. Col. Hale came this evening and T. rented Dublin to him for the use of the Government at which place the tithe grain for this section will be collected; his daughters also came with several gentlemen on their way to Capt. Truitte's. O. went with them. M. went this evening to bid Sis goodbye, on his return he also went to the Captain's, B. spent the night with Mrs. Pyron whose husband was absent.
27. Clear and dry. The young people returned this morning, and after dinner T. and M. took their leave of us and started back to camp; their regiment is to meet at Talladega and as they have not been exchanged yet, it is thought that they will be furloughed back home again. May it be so! They have had a pleasant visit at home for which I am thankful, still I would rejoice for them to return for M. is not sufficiently recovered for military duty. They go with Mr. Patterson. Dick going with them to drive. On this day four months ago they left home. A singular coincidence. May the good Lord bring them back ere long in health and peace.
28. Still warm and dry. Went to visit Mr. Blevins who is sick. Mrs. Pyron here this evening.
29. Nights are cool now, and days very warm. I went to see Mr. Hollis this morning about my syrup, he (agreed ) to do it, and I had to find the kettle; Mrs. Truitte came for O. this evening to stay with her as the Capt. is absent. B. and L. went to Shady Grove taking a coat for Lieut. Hugg.
30. 5th Sabbath. Very cool morning. It seems more like October than August. O. came home this morning and went to Cedar Hill to hear Mr. Neely preach the funeral sermon of Mr. Wilder.
31. Very warm. Busy on the coat which I find a considerable job.

September 1863

1. Still dry and warm. O. went with Miss Brewer to Hale's, and thence to the camp-ground to see the soldiers drill, a fine body of men being encamped there. Mr. Wilson escorted her home; finished the coat.
2. Warm. Went to visit Mrs. Pyron, but found her packing to leave, as they heard this morning that the Yankees are near Lebanon, which makes them unpleasantly near to us. I went to Patterson's this evening; from the news we hear now, the enemy will reach here tomorrow.
3. Still dry and dusty; cavalry are passing almost constantly and it seems they are leaving the country to its fate instead of protecting it; there are none here now, but the enemy may come and find no one to dispute their passage. Finished a lady's hat. M. came home on a 15 days furlough to our great joy.
4. No sign of rain; the root crops are suffering badly; I went with Mrs. Finley to Centre today, which seems strange, as we are looking for the Yankees this evening, but we both had business to attend to, and thought it best to delay not. I wished to dispose of my wheat and beef cattle; I partially traded with Judge Marshall; Thomas came tonight all quiet so far, but our pickets say the Yankees are slowly advancing; when I lie down at night I feel thankful for the privilege and fearful that by another night I may have no bed or home. God have mercy on as and rebuke our enemies. I paid Dr. Pratt $13 for attendance on Berenice.
5. Still dry and warm. We sent Virgil after V. and the children. They came and are in good health; this evening Mr. Hays came to tell us the enemy is getting very near--we considered it best to send our negroes and horses away, consequently, M. and V. went with them to cross the river and stay till we can see farther what to do.
6. 1st Sabbath. Very warm. M. came back this morning. It is doubtful now, whether the enemy will come this way; some may not, but will cross the mountain higher up. May they do so. I am sorry for the citizens however.
7. M. and V. both returned this morning. V. to take Sis and the children home and return to the camp; the news from Wills Valley much the same. Made a pair of Confederate or cloth shoes today; had a shoemaker to prepare soles.
8. Still very warm; V. and the negroes returned this morning. Dr. Green, a refugee, from W. Valley passed here seeking a safer place for his slaves and stock; he is much distressed are are also other he left behind him; he says he is worse hurt with some of his neighbors than with the Yankees for they acted as pilots for the Yankees, a miserable condition for a county to be in, when a part of the inhabitants are leagued against the other part. L. drawing in a piece of cloth. Picket guards are stationed now at every crossroad. Mr. Hale bought my wheat as Government agent.
9. Dry and warm. Two of the pickets came to breakfast; they have heard that the Yankees are at Blue Pond, 5 miles from here. I hope it is not true; Mr. Tucker called today; he says that a negro offered insolence to one of his nieces on Monday; this is not more than may be looked for; I learn that 3 of Mr. Truitte's have left him; no further account from Blue Pond.
10. Vegetation is drying up rapidly; we are needing rain very much now; Lizzie commenced weaving this morning. Dr. Green passed this evening; he says the enemy made a descent on Alpine in Chattooga Ct. and killed and captured the 4th Ga. Reg., which was stationed there. They have a heavy force advancing, but which way they will take remains to be seen.
11. Still very warm. No further news. Jane unwell today. Mr. L. Hale here this evening; he finished paying O. for her horse.
12. Very warm. The Yankee force still at Alpine. It is expected that the picket will be thrown out here; people are excited; Mr. Finley has taken a part of his negroes over the river, and Mr. Truitte is gone with all his family; five of his slaves have left him however; how hard it seems, when people have to leave their homes and all their abundance to the hand of the enemy; Mrs. F. sent this evening for the girls to come and stay with her. B. and L. went; T. went below here to a meeting. O. visited at Mr. Patterson's.
13. 2nd Sabbath. A slight rain last night; very warm day. A quiet Sabbath day, which I have learnt to regard as a blessing. O. and I sat awhile with Mrs. Rudd this evening.
14. Still very warm. Four soldiers stayed here tonight; they are going towards the Yankee camps as scouts. We hear various accounts and but little truth in any, I fear.
15. Still sultry; T. came home today. He has bought a tract of land in Calhoun County for the sum of $2,000.
16. Sent 20 bushels wheat to Dublin today which I sold to the agent at $5 per bushel. I also sent 8 bushel in tithe-wheat, as we now have to give the 10th of all we make to government. I went to see Mrs. B. who is sick. Feeling unwell today.
17. Warm. I have not been much out of bed today. I am taking severe cold; Parson Hood here tonight. We hear the enemy is retreating; it seems that they are hurried.
18. Cooler; I feel better this morning; T. went with the Parson to the mountain. Two of the scouts returned today; they were at the Yankee-camp, but saw no Yankee; They say that they did a good deal of mischief in that vicinity.
19. Very cool which seems strange as it is so dry. T., L. and O. went to Shady Grove; Mr. Wilkes called; B. went to Hale's.
20. 3rd Sabbath. Frost this morning, which I think is earlier than I have ever known it before; M. and V. went to Shady Grove. Several to be baptized there today; it is really cold today; Capt. Nix, and Lieut. Patterson came this morning to inform the boys that they must start to Talladega on Tuesday evening, their company having been exchanged. This is short notice. They also brought the welcome news of the enemy having evacuated Chattanooga and are now crossing the Tennessee river, our troops will doubtless follow as Bragg now has a large army.
21. Very cool. Busy preparing M. to start tomorrow. Thomas will remain awhile longer. Miss Patterson here this evening.
22. Still dry and cool. T. and L. started to Mr. McNeely's this morning; after dinner Tibbie left; he goes with Lieut. Patterson and several others, Dick going to drive them to Blue Mountain. May the Lord go with him, and return him soon in health and peace; five soldiers called, and had late dinner.
23. Cool and dry. Dyeing thread for dresses; it is no light job as so few ingredients can be bought; four soldiers here for dinner; they are passing almost continually.
24. Still extremely dry; the fall crops are cut off; heard from the battle of Chattanooga; our troops were driving the enemy before them and making a fearful slaughter, but it is at the cost of many valuable lives; Lanford Hampton, James Walker, Jasper Mountain, Lieut. Huffman and Lieut. High, of this vicinity were slain of Sabbath evening, at which time the fight raged with its greatest fury; this evening brother Joe Espy arrived; he came to bring R. Espy, who is wounded but not very badly; he confirms the account of the total rout of the Yankees; they had pursued them about 5 miles when Bob was wounded and he passed over the battle ground on his return; the slaughter was dreadful he says; the ground covered with the slain.
25. Cool. J. Espy left early. O. going with him. She has long wished to go, but the unsettled state of the country prevented; T. came after dinner; he got my wool nicely carded which he took to the factory; Mrs. Finley visited us this evening.
26. Still clear and dry; I called at Mr. Rudd's this morning; I am anxious to hear from Chattanooga.
27. 4th Sabbath. Clear fine day. T. went to see R. Espy. B. and myself went this evening to Mr. Hollis’.
28. Dry and warmer. Commenced wool spinning.
29. Still dry. Nothing further from Chattanooga; B. spent the night at Mr. Hale's.
30. Cloudy, with light showers; Rob. Espy dined here; he looks well enough but cannot use his right hand, his shoulder being very sore; It is said that many of our wounded are still on the battle-field; the people of this section starts a wagon tomorrow with supplies to them. We are cooking our mite today, also getting T. ready for his start tomorrow. A good deal of rain tonight.

October 1863

1. Rainy day; I paid to Thomas as Admr. $33.25; after an early dinner he started to Mr. McNeely's taking Dick to bring back the buggy. I wrote to Tibbie by him.
2. Clear fine day. Dick got back today, left all well at the Parson's. The Misses Howard called this evening. I sold to one of them a hat; cool night.
3. Fine pleasant day; I went with Miss Rudd to Yellow Creek; a man by the name of Bates preached to a few people; he is, I learn a refugee from Tenn.; Mrs. Horton, Miss Hale called this evening.
4. 1st Sabbath. Clear cool day. B. and I went to church; small congregation; we now hear that our troops have completely surrounded Chattanooga and will shell the city; several men of this vicinity have just returned the battle field.
5. Fine weather. B. went to preaching tonight at Mr. Hays's.
6. Beautiful day; I went to Mrs. Cumby's this evening to get her to do some weaving for me, but she already has as much on hand as she can attend; she gave me a pair of cotton-cards, which was a great gift as cards are not to be had now; selling at $50 the few that are brought, but I shall amply repay her for them.
7. Rainy day: received a letter from M. by Doc. Hill; he again camps near Demopolis, in a place which is subject to overflow and he says it has rained for two days; his letter was dated 1st October. I wrote to him on that day.
8. Light frost; fine day; making harness for double weaving. Commenced gathering corn.
9. Fine day. A letter came yesterday from a gentleman of Baker o. (state unclear)-he wished to buy a lot of land belonging to the estates in Early Co. There is no one here to attend to him, and besides this is no time to sell land.
10. Fine day. I went to Mr. Hudgens this evening, and called at Mr. Phipp’s to see Mother Echols, who is sick.
11. 2nd Sabbath. Beautiful weather; Visited Mrs. B. this evening.
12. Fine day; went to Mrs. Rudd's this evening to warp my jeans, my bars having given out.
13. Cloudy; drew in my cloth and commenced weaving.
14. Rainy; tremendous rains this evening with wind.
15. Still rainy; ceased raining and I went to the tan yard but got no leather; Virginia came this evening to get help about gathering her crop; it is a bad change but we must try to do it. Mrs. Finley came also, and brought a coat for me to make, hard rains again.
16. Cloudy; worked on the coat; a soldier dined here.
17. Fair and warm; finished the coat this evening.
18. 3rd Sabbath. Rainy with winds; B. went this evening to Mr. B.
19. Clear fine weather; gathering corn; a soldier dined here.
20. Pretty day. 3 soldiers dined here; busy weaving.
21. Warm; I sent the boys and wagon down to help gather Virginia’s crop; got out my jeans; rain this evening.
22. Clear day and very warm; I went again to the tan-yard and this time bought leather; I am to give bacon for it at the old price, the leather at the old price, also.
23. Rainy day; this evening the boys came back without doing much; V.'s crops is very fine; very cool.
24. Cloudy and cool; I molded candles today.
25. 4th Sabbath. Cool; Elder Hood preached this morning at Mr. Hollis's; B. and Virgil attended; I wrote to Tibbie today.
26. Pretty cool; cut clothing for the boys; and commenced making a jacket for Virgil; Mrs. Hampton called.
27. Still cool; Mr. Reeves came today to take Marcellus's horse on an offer made by M. to him nearly two months ago; he, being obliged to leave and not liking to risk the horse on account of thieves offered him to Reeves at 300 dollars; I did not like to let him go at that for it was nothing like his value but so many horses are being stolen I was afraid to keep him; I think Reeves used subtility knowing our situation. He, with all the appointments that are in Hardwick's gift, can stoop to despoil a soldier boy of his only horse. Shame, shame, on all such. And yet the country is full of just such people, going about, seeking whom they may despoil.
28. Cloudy, but cleared off today; Mr. Hollis dined here; Cyrus South an old acquaintance came this evening; he was with Wheeler in his late Tenn. raids; his command camped at Croft's and he obtained leave and came to see us; he is a fine intelligent young man; they captured a great deal of property but had to burn the wagons and shoot the mules; he had several little things and was very liberal, giving to Berenice a portfolio, and to Virgil a pistol worth a hundred dollars; he came in 30 miles of home but did not get to go there.
29. Cold and clear; a good many soldiers passing, Cyrus left this morning; I would have been glad if he could have rested a few days; John Trippe called; he also was with Wheeler, and brought away a good many little things (but valuable now) for there is none in the country to be had; two soldiers spent the night here; rain tonight; weaving flannel.
30. Rainy day; Mr. Walker, an old acquaintance, dined here; he had run from Chattanooga with his male-slaves and is at the Tatum Place digging for coal but finds none; is a government agent; a soldier here tonight; V. came up today for an hour perhaps and B. went home with her.
31. A gloomy morning, cleared off by twelve; cold night; sent V. to cousin James today to get wool but got none.

November 1863

1. 1st Sabbath. Somewhat cloudy; went with Virgil to Yellow Creek; Elder H. preached to a small congregation; went this evening to see Miss Patterson who is sick. B. came home today.
2. Fine warm weather; sowing rye.
3. Clear and warm; finished the rye; two soldiers here tonight;
4. Still warm; I went to Mr. Rudd's to warp our dresses. I sent the boys down to finish gathering V.'s crop;
5. Cloudy and soon commenced raining; we drew in our cloth this evening.
6. Cloudy but no rain today; we were a little frightened tonight by some person being round; looking we supposed for horses; no one here but B. and I and Jane; a great many thieves in the country now.
7. Clear and pleasant; the boys came home this evening; Virginia and the children with them; the baby is walking now; Vivia is very fond of him and calls him "boy" all the time.
8. 2nd Sabbath. Getting cold; V. and B. and Virgil went to Cedar Hill this morning taking Vivia with them. Virgil and I went this evening with V. that far; Mr. Nicholson preached to a small congregation; considerable feeling among the people; colder.
9. Very cold; I find my weaving a very serious job; it is very fine and troublesome; I called at Mr. Hays; I am very anxious to hear from the boys. I suppose them to be at Chattanooga; Lizzie came tonight, her brother John is with her.
10. Still cold; an old gentleman stopped today to rest till morning; we killed a fine beef this evening; Mr. Hays attended to it; I sold all but one quarter at 25 cts. per pound which is the government price; he was worth 150 dollars in all.
11. Very cold; our traveler left this morning; I am sorry that I did not learn his name, he is such a gentlemanly man; had a corn-shucking tonight but got but little done, as the negroes would not work and there was no one to compel them; a soldier died last night at Mr. Hollis's.
12. Still cold and clear; we got our corn in the crib this morning and commenced sowing wheat this evening; we are late with it; but there is so much to do for other people that it could not be otherwise; B. went to H.'s tonight to a candy-pulling.
13. Cold; B. returned this morning; she says James Hale will start back in the morning, to the army; we will cook some provisions for the boys and get him to take it to them; I wrote to Tibbie; I had Mr. Hudgens to make some jacks for my loom and I hope to get on better.
14. Rainy morning; J. Hale came by and took our letters and provisions; I hope the boys will get it, for they need it no doubt, poor fellows.
15. 3rd Sabbath. Pretty day; B. took Vivia to Patterson's this evening; she is a pretty and engaging child with more than an ordinary share of intellect. L. and I called at Mr. Brewer's. He has not been heard of since the battle of Chickamauga; he is supposed to be a prisoner; it is best hope for him.
16. Still fine weather; we are getting on very well with our wheat-sowing; Mrs. Raban returned from Ga. tonight; she brought a letter from O. who says than she is in fine health, and weighs 140 lbs.; that she is enjoying herself very well and does not know when she will come home; she went to Rome on Thursday and had teeth put in on pivots; I fear they will do her no good, for she has tried that once; Capt. Harlow here tonight.
17. Cloudy and warmer; Mr. Reed brought letters today from Thomas and Tibbie; they were both well at that date (1st Nov.) It seems the army is lying inactive now; T. gave me directions for proceeding to collect from government the money due Columbus at the time of his death; the papers which I sent to Echols which he says, he sent to Richmond, having miscarried. I do not believe that he sent them; finished a pair of gloves for Virgil.
18. Fine day; Mr. Reed, who is going to sow wheat here came today; Virginia requested him to bring Vivia home with him on his return; she was perfectly willing to go with him and was busy as a bee fixing to go calling him Papa; I suppose she took him for her grandpa Trippe; we miss her very much for she was in nearly every place and so busy; on this evening last year Columbus reached home for the last time; how short the time seems since then, and yet, a long year has passed. How plainly now I can see him, and how little I thought he was so near his end, poor and weak as he was. He became weaker day by day, yet none of us thought death was so near. God help us, and make us all as ready to go, when our time comes as he was. Mr. R. returned after taking Vivia home.
19. Warm, Miss M. Shackleford visited us this evening.
20. Still warm; Miss A. Phipps, who has been very cross for some time is now trying to get my girls into an epistolary quarrel with her about some ungenerous remarks of her own about my family. She "did for herself" at the commencement of the war by some hard remarks towards the soldiers and has been going lower ever since; still for all that I do not think that she should vent her spleen on us altogether. She should only blame herself, and be quiet; rain all night.
21. Inclement; Miss P. sent B. another communication in which she becomes abusive. I would not take a pen in my hand if I could do no better than she, and she too has been pretending to teach school, B. is tonight preparing an answer in which she does not spare her opinions. I have headache.
22. 4th Sabbath. Clear pretty day; the girls and Virgil went down to see how Virginia is getting along; Mr. Hill called, also a refugee to ask leave to stay in the Tatum house awhile; he says they were fighting a little at Chattanooga when he left. I am entirely alone this evening yet I am not afraid; I often think of the change which has taken place in me in that respect lately, for tho’ the times are more dangerous I am not afraid to be alone. The girls returned this evening, left all well at Virginia's.
23. Cloudy; Mr. Pyron, Mr. Lloyd dined here; I sold them a beef steer which is to be slaughtered at home; B. sent an answer today to Miss Phipps’ abusive letter of Saturday but she would not receive it, but "backed down". I suppose she had accomplished her wishes in getting to abuse Berenice. B. and L. took the whole correspondence to Patterson's and read it, for although B. requested Meda to show it, yet I presume she will not do it. They the Patterson's, said they had not heard of it before.
24. Inclement day; I progress slowly with the dresses; it is the most troublesome thing I have ever undertook.
25. Clear; we killed the beef and Mr. B. sent and took it off it weighed 239 1/2 lbs. at 25 cts. per lb; Mr. Farriss bargained for the other one this evening; I did not wish to part with them as I intended them for work-oxen; but it is said that the pressgang is close by, and they take such things in the name of Government without paying the worth of them. I wanted to save the hides as leather is so scarce. B. and V. went to a party tonight at Mr. Hollis's. Very cold.
26. Clear and very cold; B. and L. went to Mr. Hay's this evening and read Meda's and her letters to them; Mrs. Phipps had already been there with the "famous” Mollie Janes letter
27. Cold harsh day; we hauled corn to the crib today, cloudy.
28. Rainy; a great deal of rain last night; this tine last year we were waiting on Columbus who was fast drawing near his end; it seems but a short tine to look back at it now; his patient uncomplaining visage is ever before me, and seems but as of yesterday; we today learn that they are fighting at Chattanooga; may the Lord give the cruel enemy into our hands, without bloodshed on our side. Got our last corn in the crib today, about 300 bushels.
29. 5th Sabbath. Very cold; the anniversary of Columbus's death; about 2 o'clock will complete one year in Heaven with him, as I firmly believe; I do not grieve that he is gone, for I cannot wish him back here, the news from Chattanooga is discouraging; our forces are retreating I suppose, and the enemy in pursuit. Miss Hale, Miss Mackey, Mrs.Randall (formerly Ella Dupree) here today; the Misses Rudd here this evening, Mrs. Finley sent for Berenice to stay with her.
30. Extremely cold; B. returned this evening; Mr. F. is thinking of again leaving the country on account of the Yankees as he thinks they will soon be all over the country; Miss J. Patterson came this evening; she brought word from Miss Phipps that she is willing to receive the letter that she refused and wishes it sent; B. is not thinking of doing such a thing. Jane says that she was Meda's informant and although she made the girls believe that they (the Patterson's) had heard nothing of the matter, she now confesses that Miss Echols had read the “Mollie Janes letter " to them some time previously. Oh, shame where is thy blush?

December 1863

1. Severely cold; this morning Mrs. John Janes brought 3 letters from Thomas; they contained nothing of much interest except they they were well; rations are short; he says they have had no meat for several days and no prospect of any soon; Sis also, sent me a letter from M. He wishes me to send him a pair of shoes if I cannot get his boots painted. This morning last year we buried Columbus, and today they buried Mr. Howard. Knitting a pair of gloves.
2. Still very cold; I went this evening to see about getting the shoes made, but Mr. Hale cannot make them immediately. This neighborhood is getting full of refugees. I sold some things this evening to some of them; they say, that all they had was burnt at Chattanooga. Mr. Walker’s and Mr. Spencer’s families. People who have been in affluence I suppose.
3. Still cold and clear; making shirt for Mr. Walker. I sent some provisions to the boys by Mr. Hollis.
4. Cold and clear; this I think has been the longest clear cold spell I ever knew; Mr. and Mrs. Pyron spent the night here. Mr. B. looks a little better I think.
5. Cold but getting cloudy; a letter came from T. dated 25th in which he says that he and M. came safely through the battle of the 24th and the skirmish of the 25th. Also did all the boys from this part. This is good news. I went with B., cousin Agnes, and Amelia to Yellow Creek. Mr. Bates preached; few persons there; we make choice of Elder H. for the ensuing year. B. and V. went to a party at Mr. Hay's.
6. 1st Sabbath. Clear and cold; Dr. Wright, who is just from the army took breakfast here; he brought a letter from T. in which he says he will be at home in a few days he thinks; he and M. are tolerably well; they are getting plenty to eat once more, which is also good news. Today our best milk cow got her foot hurt - badly I fear.
7. Clear and cold; we killed the cow this morning as we feared she would not get over it. I am very sorry for we will feel the need of her I am certain. My birthday and it is an unhappy one, for this evening the Officer came and enlisted Virgil into what is called State Service. They are he says, to be stationed at Gadsden to guard prisoners, but I fear it is only a trap to ensnare them into the service. They will have to leave about the first of January. I had hoped to keep my last one a little longer, but it seems he must go too, and encounter all the evils of camp-life. May the Lord go with him, and keep him from all evils, and return him in safety to us. This night four years ago, I sat writing in my diary surrounded by a happyfamily; now all is threatened desolation. Could I have looked forward to what four years would bring on me surely, reason would have left me.
8. A cold rain falling all day; I am not well, for I did not sleep any last night; I can see also that Virgil is much dejected at the necessity of leaving home - poor boy. May the good Lord order it otherwise, and may he be allowed to remain in the nest at home. I received a letter yesterday from O. in which she says she expects to be at home in two weeks; I wrote a letter to her last night but owing to the inclemency of today, I have not sent it off. This is a dreadful night for the poor soldiers who are without tents. What can they do in such nights. May the Lord order a close to this cruel war.
9. Clear and warmer; I finished my dresses to my great joy; T. arrived awhile after dinner in tolerable health; he left M. also in tolerable health; they are now at Dalton; Mr. Hill, Miss J. Patterson came to see him and hear from their friends; we are preparing provisions tonight to send to M. by Mr. Means; F. says they are getting plenty of bread and beef now.
10. Pretty day; a fast day; I went with B. and Virgil to Yellow Creek to prayer meeting but there was but one male member present; was sent some thread to dye red; Mrs. Cumby and daughter called; making up my dress.
11. Pleasant; we killed our last beef today; Mr. M. Davis came to see us; Mrs. Roberts called; T. brought money for the women from their friends in the army.
12. Inclement day; Virgil went to Turkey Town to meet his company and make final arrangements; they are to meet in Gadsden on the 1st day of January. I cannot reconcile this to my feelings; what we will do with no one to attend to business for us I do not know; but that is not the worst of it; so young a boy to be left to himself among wicked men is what troubles me most. Ah, me what a dreadful time this is and no hope for the end soon. But it may be all for the best.
13. 2nd Sabbath. Still rainy.
14. Clear and getting cold; make flannel shirt for Virgil.
15. Cold and clear; V. and I went to Hall's as the tax collector has an appointment there; he did not come however; we called at Mr. Hollis's on our return; we hear good news now, and it is thought to be reliable; that the Yankees are retreating at top-speed, and the cause is utterly unknown to our people; their destination is said to be Bowling Green, Kentucky. May they never return.
16. Warmer and getting cloudy but, as we were ready we killed our hogs. They weighed 913 lbs. the tenth of which we had to give to the government. Mr. Rudd assisted; we had also 3 hands from Patterson's; commenced raining this evening.
17. Very inclement day; Mr. Finley had a sale today of his personal property; as he is going away to N. C. to avoid the Yankees. I wished to attend it but was too busy; finished the lard and sausage meat; turning cold.
18. Very cold and clear; I went with B. to visit Mrs. Finley this evening. They are much distressed about leaving home, and certainly it is bad but they should not repine. They are well off, and are going to wealthy friends whereas I, and many others, have no friends and our children even barely boys, are taken from us and put into the service. There is a great wrong somewhere, and if our confederacy should fall, it will be no wonder to me for the brunt is thrown upon the working classes while the rich live at home in ease and pleasure.
19. Severely cold; I went to Patterson's this morning and warped a web of cloth; T. went to Shady grove.
20 3rd Sabbath. Very cold; T. and Berenice went to Shady Grove, tomorrow he will go to Calhoun and pay the last installment on his land. Cousin Agnes called here. She is in great distress about her son leaving her, and well she may be, for she will be in a helpless condition with her small children and lame son. But so it is. Such as she, must bear it. There is no remedy.
21. Cold day; I went to see Mr. Hill this morning who is very sick. Lizzie helped me draw in my web of cloth.
22. Still cold, busy weaving; tonight Olivia arrived by the boat. She is in good health, and left the relatives all well, she went to Rome on Sunday and had to wait till this morning.
23. Very cold; very busy; the Misses Perkins visited us this evening, T. came tonight but did not bring B. as it was night when he left Mr. Aubey’s, at which place a sale is going on and he was clerk.
24. Still cold and clear; T. went to the sale again, property sells remarkably high; wheat sold today at $13.50 per bushel. He and Virgil went tonight to see Mr. Hill who is though to be better.
25. Christmas day; Mrs. Finley sent for us to dine with her; T., L. and I went; I do not feel much like attending parties but as she is going to leave the country and I may never see her again I thought I would go; I am very busy, too, preparing Virgil to start on the 1st of Jan. to Gadsden. Ah, me! would to God that he might stay at home. I could, I think be perfectly satisfied if he could be got out of that (I fear) wicked company. Mr. H. better. Olivia and Virgil spent the night at Mr. Finley's.
26. A close wet day; making pants for V. O. came home tonight.
27. 4th Sabbath; another rainy day; T. was to have preached at Mr. Hollis’s but did not go.
28. Cloudy. Lizzie sick; we sent for Dr. Mathews and she gave birth about ten; Mrs. Hays, Mrs. Rudd here; B. came home with Mr. Aubrey.
29. Clear and severely cold; T. and I went to Centre to get matters arranged for the collection of what was due Columbus from the government; got it arranged, and came to Virginia’s by 1 o'clock; she and the children came home with us. O. and V. went to a party at Mrs. Brewers'.
30. Still cold; O. and V. went to dine at Mr. Mackey's. L. and her baby doing very well; they have named her Susan Rouslan. Cousin Agnes called today; she is greatly troubled about her son leaving and wishes him to join the Confederate service instead; tonight the young people had a large party at Mr. Finley's. He left this morning for N. C. His wife will go soon. Rain all night.
31. And last day of 1863. A very inclement day; making a jeans hat for Virgil who has to leave next Tuesday by the boat. No one can feel any worse than I do about it, for he is nothing but a child and besides, we need him so much at home. The fear too, that he may be enticed by wicked men into bad habits afflicts me surely. A gentlemen spent the night here who is just from the army and brought a letter from M. He is in fine health and to make himself comfortable in his winter quarters. He very much, wishes to get a recruit so that he can have a forty days furlough, but I fear we will not find one for boys are getting scarce now. In looking over my last year diary, I find that I registered the wish that we might be better and happier a year hence. As to being better I fear it is not the case, and I do not think we are happier, yet I feel thankful that it is as well with is as it is, and pray that it may be no worse with us this day next year.