January 1865

1. New Year’s Day. 1st Sabbath. Very cold; the ground as white as though covered with snow. B. and C. went to Yellow Creek. Mrs. B. called this morning. We hear bad news now, namely, that Hood has fallen back to Corinth. I am much depressed and dread the coming of the enemy. If it was only the Lord’s will that we could have peace, how thankful I certainly would be. A letter from T. dated 14 Dec. at Corinth. He would start next morning to Tenn, was well, but wrote no news, only that they had gained a splendid victory at great sacrifice. I called at Patterson's.
2. Still cold. Drew in cloth of B.'s. Mrs. Campbell came to see to my blue-dyeing. Capt. F. and some other gentlemen called.
3. Very cold. Unwell.
4. Still cold. Busy weaving.
5. More moderate. The guinea-pig given to me by the wife of the head butcher of Hoods army died last night. It has been ailing some time. This climate was too cold for it or else it was an old one; rainy.
6. Inclement. Finished the cloth. Mr. Thornton, Mr. Wood brought home my kettle today. They gave me 15 gallons of syrup for the use of it. They seem much dismayed at Hood’s retreat, and think the Yankees will soon be on them. Some of them in that bend have an abundance and will not divide with us, who the Yankees have despoiled. Well may they fear them; for they will have to get supplies from them next time as there are none on the road.
7. Clearing off. Very cold. O. took Jane went to see Virginia. Cold night.
8. 2nd Sabbath. Clear cold morning. This day 50 years ago Jackson fought the battle of New Orleans, and gained a splendid victory. It is and has been in the hands of the enemy now for a long time. The girls visited Mrs. Brewer.
9. & 10. Cold. I have been troubled for 2 days with a pain in the left shoulder, and fear pneumonia. Rainy. Hard rains tonight.
11. Still rainy. Drew in a dress for Jane. The waters are high.
12. Clear and very cold. We killed the hogs, we got from James. They weighed 324 lbs. and is nice meat. J. Pulling helped us.
13. Cold. Attended to our lard and sausage-meat. There is not much of either, but I am thankful for what there is. Started a letter to Dennis Butt today. Heard cannon today. Hope the letter may reach its destination.
14. Cold and windy. Finished the dress and called at Mr. Rudd’s and Bishop’s.
15. 3rd Sabbath. Clear and cold. We finished the book of Proverbs this morning. I think it the greatest ever written. B. came home today. V. and the children with her. B. and L. went to Cedar Hill. Mr. Brindly is the preacher this year. Miss I. Patterson visited us this afternoon.
16. Somewhat cloudy. V. came home this morning. B. with her, also Virgil and Dick to haul wood for her and plow her garden.
17. Clear and cold. Spent it with Mrs. Hays very pleasantly. O. went with me.
18. Cold. This morning Mr. Hays sent home my leather which he has had since the 1st of November to make shoes for me. It would have been kinder in him to have returned it sooner I think.
19. Still cold.
20. Cloudy. L. and myself spent it at Mr. Campbell's.
21. Inclement day. I am trying to dye with home raised indigo, but am not doing very well with it. It is the only chance now for blue.
22. 4th Sabbath. Rainy day. Mr. Rains called this morning with letters from Mary and Maggie Espy. They write that all is well. James speaks of coming down soon. He has to enter the service again. Two letters tonight from Thomas. The last dated the 14th. He is not well. They are camped near Tupelo, Miss. He thinks they will go down to Columbus. This is bad, in fact all the news we hear now is bad. What is to become of us?-- God alone knows, and it seems he is shutting us up in the hand of the enemy.
23. Still inclement. Busy with the spinning. Clearing off.
24. Cold and clear. O. went to Col. Hale's tonight. Very cold night.
25. Hard freeze. O. came home this morning. Capt. Hale has orders to conscript the boys over 16. It seems then that V. will have to go and it is a bad chance about getting him a horse. O! for a friend in our time of need.
26. Severely cold.
27. Still very cold. A man thought to be a tory, who stole some leather at the tan-yard was shot, but not killed. L. and B. went to Centre.
28. Very cold. We learn this evening that the man who was shot last evening was taken by some soldiers and hung. I feel badly about this for he was only a boy and not positively known to be a tory. Besides the shot would have killed him they say. He was moreover, supposed to be drunk when he took the leather.
29. 5th Sabbath. Severely cold, and the thickest ice that has been this winter. The girls went to see Lieut. P., who came the other day and brought a letter from T. and Tibbie's clothing, which was sent last summer to Montgomery. Poor fellow! perhaps he needs them now. The Lieut. they say is in fine spirits and says the army is too. Part of it is now on the way to S. C. following Sherman, who is aiming for Richmond.
30. Very cold. L. and J. spent it at Mr. Bearden's very pleasantly.
31. Moderating some.

February 1865

1. Pleasant and getting cloudy. L. and J. went this evening to the tanyard, but got no leather. Called on Mrs. Rudd coming back.
2. Clear and cold.
3. Cloudy. Had house-washing today. Finished Virginia’s dyeing; it is very pretty, I think. Knitting gloves for Vivia. Mrs. Green, Miss Bruce visited us this evening. There is now a flash of hope once more, about peace. It is said that England, France and Spain are going to recognize the South after the 4th March, when Lincoln’s term will be out. They say, and truly, that he is only a sectional president besides, being fraudulently elected. Our vice-president and others have gone to Washington to make peace arrangements. God speed them.
4. Cloudy. B. came home this morning. Sis with her; she has heard nothing of John since he left. Did not go to church today.
5. 1st Sabbath. Rainy. O. and V. attended a marriage this evening nevertheless. The parties were old Mr. Hollis and Mrs. Robertson. The girls went to Mr. Rudd's. O. spent the night.
6. Still rainy. Cousin J. Espy came tonight on his way home. He left Thomas well. He thinks the remainder of the army will go to S. C.
7. Still inclement and cold. Lieut. P. visited us this morning.
8. Very cold. Joseph left this morning. Snow and sleet this evening.
9. & 10. Cold. We killed our last hog today.
11. More moderate. Our folks rolling logs on the ground. We are going to tend on Mr. Finley's farm.
12. 2nd Sabbath. Cold. O. went today to see R. Hampton, who was a prisoner we learn at Rock Island, but it was a mistake for he never saw Rock Island. I went this evening to see Miss Rudd, who has been sick . She is better now.
13. Very cold. I went to see Lieut. P, who started this morning to rejoin his command, also, to Mr. Hollis's to see Col. Hale. Mr. Campbell dined here. Lieut. Miles came this evening. Planted onion-buttons.
14. Sleety and cold. Sis broke in on us notwithstanding with the joyfulness of a letter from M. He says he is in fine health and has been with the exception of one month. He received my letter, which Capt. Jacobs duly forwarded, on the 6th December, which he says was the happiest day he has known for a long time; that he has not suffered much and was glad to learn that I knew where he was. That he is resigned to the will of God, knowing that whatever He permits is for the best. He says his cousin Sam Espy, John Espy’s son, of Tenn., is with him and that it is through his uncle John that he wrote this letter. He wrote several letters to Thomas and received one from him while T. was in Atlanta. He hopes he will get to come home next spring. They are only allowed to write one page; says nothing about Rock Island--- only that the winter is the healthiest time there. This has done us all a great deal of good and the most acceptable Valentine we have ever received.
15. Rain; Lieut. Miles left this morning. Virgil went home with V. this evening. Warped our dresses. Warmer.
16. Cloudy, but pleasant morning. Drew in our web of cloth.
17. Pleasant, but the wind is as high as I ever knew it.
18. Fine day. B. and L. went to Shady Grove; Mr. Rudd called this evening.
19. 3rd Sabbath. Fine frosty morning. Lieut. Miles came and went with O. to Cedar Hill. The girls came back this evening.
20. Fine weather. Busy weaving. Sowed seeds this evening.
21. Still pleasant, but getting cloudy.
22. Light rains today. Finished our dresses.
23. A day of continual rain. The tax-collector has an appointment at Matthews, but I cannot attend. We had a terrible fright today; Susie got choked on a cherry-seed and seemed entirely gone, for several minutes, but Dick succeeded in finally pushing it down her throat when she recovered. She was black in the face, and limber. Capt. F. and Lieut. M. spent the night here.
24. Another rainy day. Making our dresses. I am much depressed when I think of our present situation, tho’ I know I should be thankful that we are as well off as we are, I am much distressed about Virgil for he must leave soon and what we are to do we know not.
25. A day of almost incessant rain; we have not seen the sun for over three days. Hung up our meat thinking it would clear off.
26. 4th Sabbath. Clear pleasant morning. The girls went this evening to see the river; it is high and still rising. Dick worked on Hale's mill-dam.
27. Cloudy. J. Pulling, C. Ellis called. A great deal of rain tonight.
28. Still rainy; wrote to Marcellus, and carried it to Mr. Hollis's, where I obtained a stamp and gave it to Col. Hale to mail tomorrow at Centre.

March 1865

1 Still very wet. Mr. Allen the deaf mute came this evening; he is a man of good education and talents.
2. Rainy morning. Mr. A. left after dinner.
3. Still inclement; Virgil's birthday and the 6th anniversary of Virginia's marriage; tremendous rain with thunder tonight.
4. Sunshiny day and getting cool. Capt. Freeman called.
5. 1st Sabbath. Cold. Went with O. and V. to Yellow Creek. A good many out for the times. Miss J. Trippe and Virginia came up; also the Misses Mopping and brother dined here.
6. More pleasant. Capt. F. took supper here. Virgil, who is of age now for the service has joined his company. This is not so bad as being in the regular war as he can be at home more and will not suffer so many hardships.
7 & 8. Pleasant; commenced raining today.
9. Still rainy. The wind shifted this evening to the west and is getting very cold; high winds with sleet tonight.
10. A hard freeze; this is fast-day and Parson Glazner preaches at Yellow Creek, but owing to the great freeze, I shall not attend. B. and L. went.
11. Still very cold; I went with O. on the mountain to Mr. Williams’.
12. 2nd Sabbath. Clear and moderate; Capt. F. and some other gentlemen dined here; B. and O. went this afternoon to Mrs. Bruce’s.
13. Pleasant; warped thread, and sowed more peas and lettuce and Lieut. M. came tonight. Virgil went to see Mr. Davis about getting a sow and pigs, but did not get any now.
14. Cloudy; the girls making pants. V. and Dick commenced plowing at Mr. Finley’s; commenced raining about 12:00.
15. Still rainy. Lieut. M. left early; tremendous rains tonight. Drew in our cloth.
16. Rainy morning; clearing off this evening and getting cold.
17. Frosty morning; I molded candles; a year’s allowance. I much prefer this way and think a great deal is saved by it. I am anxious for a letter from Thomas. We hear good news, now, from the front, if it is true.
18. Pretty day. Had house-cleaning. L. is preparing to take the Boat tomorrow for her father’s.
19. 3rd Sabbath. Fine day; L. got off early. I went with O. to Cedar Hill to hear Mr. Brindly preach. A pretty good turn-out. He came with us to dinner. Sent to Mr. Dupree’s for sweet-potatoes, but owing to the high water did not get any.
20. Warm. Freeman’s G. met today at Leesburg; they are ordered to report at Blue Mountain on the 25th. I do not like this; for I fear they may be sent to S. C. I feel badly about Virgil going, but hope it may turn out for the best. He cannot get to Thomas now, and he is compelled to do something. O! that this cruel war was indeed over. And all could be at peace at home. Planted Irish-potatoes today.
21. Rainy morning. Tonight to our great joy Marcellus arrived in tolerable health, but the thinnest in flesh I ever saw him, he left the prison on the 15 Feb. and came round by Richmond. He has suffered greatly for he never knew what it was to have a full stomach while he stayed there. They vaccinate all the prisoners, immediately, and M. had a dreadfully sore arm and thought he would lose it. It is nearly well, but withered. At the same time he had the scurvy and tumor on his jaw, which is not yet sound. Their quarters were good, had plenty of coal to burn, and plenty of soap and water and the market was good, but he had no money. Capt. Jacobs wrote to the commandant of the post recommending M., but he paid no attention to it. He is a very barbarous man. The Prison is guarded by negro-soldiers and of course, but little mercy is expected from them. M. walked from Social Circle, a distance of 200 miles. His feet are very sore, having been frost bitten.
22. Clear and windy. Sent Dick, who brought Virginia and the children. V. went to Edward’s ferry to meet the Co., but it did not come. I was glad to see him back.
23. Clear. Bedded sweet-potatoes; I think M. is improving right fast. V. took Sis and children home this evening and bedded her sweet-potatoes.
24. Fair and very windy; news came this morning a large force of Yankees are coming down Wills Valley; we got ready to start off the wagon, but did not do it; as no one else is going we thought it best to wait awhile. Miss E. Patterson, Mrs. Hays, called today.
25. Clear No further news from the valley; how I wish we could have peace. Miss I. Patterson here this evening. The two Mrs. Shaw called to see M.
26. 4th Sabbath. Cold. Capt. F. and Lieut. M. called. The Misses Hale, Miss Mackey and the Misses Rudd here today. M. is improving very fast in his looks.
27. Fine day Commenced planting corn and beans. M. helping. It is a great encouragement to V. and Dick having him at home; the Capt. and Lieut. called to bid us good-bye as they are going away.
28 & 29. Still fine weather.
30. Rain last night and cold this morning. O. went with Mrs. B. on the mountain to Mr. F. Hale’s; Miss Hays spent the day here; showery again this evening with winds.
31. Clear and pleasant. The last of March.

Loss sustained by Sarah R. Espy at the hand of the enemy on June 3 and from the 21 to the 26 of October, 1864:
	June 3rd	Corn--10 bushels
		Oats--100 bundles.
		Bacon--200 lbs.
		One navy-pistol
		One gallon brandy
	October	50 bushels corn, of which I sold 25 bushels to the Confederate army and gathered 25
		Leaving--450 bushels
		Fodder--80 bundles
		Oats--50 dozen
		Wheat--10 bushels
		Rye--5 bushels
		16 hogs and 3 shoats
		Flour--200 lbs.
		Syrup--5 gallons
		1 bushel onions and 2 bushels Irish-potato seed
		6 head sheep
		1 India-rubber-gin-band
		Well-rope and pulley (Cast)
		The fencing burnt around 30 acres of land
		1 feather bed weighing between 35 and 40 lbs.
		3 quilts and an indefinite quantity of clothing taken on the 3rd of June amongst which was men’s fine apparel of broadcloth, satinette and 25 bushels of old corn

 

April 1865

1. Beautiful day; went with B. and Cousin Agnes to Yellow Creek; few persons there two received by a letter; planted bunch-beans and other seeds.
2. 1st Sabbath. Fine day; the girls and M. went to church; Elder Glazner and Mr. M. Davis came to dinner. We learn that the Federals have taken Selma, thereby cutting off our salt-market. This is deplorable.
3. All appearance of good weather; the boys commenced planting of the Finley farm. M. dropping for them. Parson Glazner called this evening.
4. Fine day, but windy; Parson G. called awhile this morning. He had heard of a fight between the Scouts and Tories near Van Buren in which two of our Capts. are said to have fallen. Capt. Cason, Mr. Johnson spent the night here.
5. Fine weather; this morning we were informed that the Federals were advancing on us both from above and below. We sent for the boys in haste, but we got ready to start them off Mr. Larmer came and told it was not so. We were glad to hear it. It frightens me dreadfully to hear they are coming. M. went to Mr. Hale’s and to Virginia;s and I cannot feel thankful enough that he is at home. That he is not wearing his life away in the prison at Rock Island. May all the other poor fellows be released too. Drew in a piece of table-clothing.
6. Cloudy. Mr. Larmer called. We now hear various accounts from Carolina, one of which is that Johnson has captured Sherman and half his army. I doubt this. A good deal of rain today. Remodeled a hat for Jane.
7. Rainy morning. Marcellus returned; left all well. The news of Sherman’s capture came to Rome written on the back of a letter he learnt from Mr. Trippe.
8. Clear and windy. M. went to see Cousin Agnes. I sent Dick with him and got a ewe lamb she had promised me. Getting cloudy again.
9. 2nd Sabbath. A close rainy day. Mrs. Hays stopped awhile out of the rain.
10. Hard rains today.
11. Still cloudy; went with Mrs. B. this evening to P. May, who has just returned from the prison at Camp Morton, Ind.
12. Rainy. Making shirts for Marcellus. O. got out the cloth today.
13. A rain today.
14. Good Friday. Clear. Sowed lettuce seeds this evening.
15. Rainy day. Some soldiers, who camped at Leesburg called; Capt. F. called as he returned. He did not cross the Tenn.
16. 3rd Sabbath. Easter; pretty day. The girls and M. went to Cedar Hill. Mrs. Bearden, Mrs. Whitton, Capt. F., Lieut. M. came to dinner. Parson Price and Brindly spent the night. M. went to Mr. Hale’s and brought a letter from T. dated 31st March. He was taken at Smithfield, N. C. and in good health. Wrote nothing about the war. We now hear that Richmond is certainly evacuated and the seat of government will be Macon.
17. Clear fine day. Some soldiers dined here. We planted sugar-corn and indigo.
18. Cloudy and windy. Capt. F. left this morning. Making hat for Mrs. Howard.
19. Fine day. The spring advancing rapidly and the air is heavy with perfume of a thousand flowers. Roses are opening; the lilies and lilacs are fading.
20. A great deal of rain last night; I went with O. to see Virginia. Found all well; the roads are very bad indeed, and more water on the ground than I ever saw before. We brought Genevieve home with us.
21. Rainy morning. Our boys are disappointed by it in going over the river to the mill.
22. Clear and cool. Capt. F. came today; he thinks that V. will have to go with him to Blue Mountain to report next week. He is compelled to do something, but I feel badly about it. O! for peace that my children could stay at home. Four gentlemen spent the night here. Very cool again.
23. 4th Sabbath. Clear windy day. O. and M. went this morning to Class meeting. She and B. went this evening to see Pamela Espy. Lieut. M. spent the night. The boys and I covered the vegetables as we fear there will be frost.
24. Plenty of frost, but it did little harm; the girls making pants for the Capt. I am making some for M. Capt. F. returned today. I never felt worse, I think in my life. Virgil must leave soon and I am unable to mount him without breaking my team. He has been trying to get a saddle as the Yankees took his, but cannot find one. I cannot be thankful enough for the return of Marcellus, and the great help he has been to us, but still I grieve much about Virgil.
25. Still cool; the Capt. went to Centre; we hear that the Federals are on this side of Jacksonville coming this way. Capt. F. says there is great excitement in C. preparing for their visit and moving out their valuables. They camped last night 8 miles this side of Jacksonville.
26. Fine day. V. tried again today for a saddle without success; he called at Virginia’s. She has had bad news from John. It is supposed he is captured. Several of his Co. have reached home. They say the last they saw of him he was firing at the Yankees and did not come out with them. I am very uneasy about him. Capt. F. left today. He and a part of his Co. will report to Gen. Hill, who is thought to be near Jacksonville. The Yankees went back we learn. He gave V. a furlough for ten days or till he can mount himself.
27. Cloudy. The girls went to Judge Harralson’s. V. commenced plowing corn. The Capt. came back this evening and told V. that they must all report to Gen. Hill before the 1st May or be treated as deserters. I had hoped to have kept him out, but it seems there is not any chance. I think, too, that the cause is hopeless. I fear the South through the influence of her leaders has committed a great wrong. Now innocent people must suffer for it.
28. Cloudy. V. started this morning. I did not feel so badly as I expected for I know there is no help for it. He must submit. The girls came home and informed me that I must pay tax yet. Only the state tax is repealed. I went with B. to Col. Hale’s and turned the matter over to him. Saw a soldier, who says it is true that Gen. Lee has surrendered. His army was thought to be invincible, but numbers can overpower any.
30. 5th Sabbath. Pretty day. Virgil and the Lieut. returned this morning and brought us a fine fish. Went to Cedar Hill this evening. Heard Mr. Brindly preach to a tolerable number of persons. Gen H. orders them to take up all, who are subject to military service. I do not like this. There are too many lying out to be taken on peaceable turns.

May 1865

1. Cool. Capt. F. came today. He is determined to try to carry out his orders from Gen. H. and will start tomorrow.
2. Pleasant. V. went with them this morning; M. and Dick commenced planting at the Finley place. J. Pulling helping them. L. came by the Boat today. Susie has grown a lot.
3. Still dry. This evening V. returned; they arrested several whom they will guard tonight at Rudd’s. V. will not go to Blue Mountain as guard. The Capt. letting him off. The Lieut. spent the night. Finished planting today.
4. Cool and dry. O. and myself both quite unwell with cold. I am much distressed on her account for her health does not improve, still she engages in active employment for she is one who will not be idle. Dick helping plant corn at Mr. Brewer’s.
5. Warm. We are both better of our colds. The girls drew in a little web of cloth. There is a picnic on hand tomorrow, to be held at Dublin, Vivia and Susie have fine times together. They both take to their uncle M. wonderfully; he is very fond of children and encourages them to do so.
6. Pleasant. This morning Capt. F. returned with the bad news of the downfall of the Confederacy, Gen. Johnston having also surrendered and given up the country east of the Chattahoochie river. He did not learn much of the terms of the surrender only, that we are to go back in the Union as we were before the war. If this can be carried out, it will be well for us, but I much doubt it. The young folks feel badly, but finally concluded to go on with their party. Virginia came up this evening. She was surprised to find us all so cast down; the people down her way are rejoicing at the prospect of peace. We were made glad this evening by the arrival of James and Joseph Espy. They left all well at home, think we will have no more fighting for awhile at least.
7. 1st Sabbath. Pretty day. We all went to Church; a good congregation We have had a heavy shock today by the arrest of Freeman’s men, Virgil among them, for arresting the Starlings the other night, and two of the men retained their horse. V. did nothing but help guard the prisoners, but he must suffer with the rest. I think I had rather have died than such a thing to happen to a son of mine, tho’ he was innocent of all intention of wrong and only was obeying the Capt’s. orders. The officers came here to dinner and then took the boys to Centre. M. took V. and Vivia home. Truly, the sorrows of my heart are enlarged.
8. Showery morning. James and Marcellus went to Centre to see how the affair would terminate. They came back this evening with Virgil, and the Lieut. He effected a compromise with Starling and obtained a release. Otherwise they would have been retained for trial, for Starling had a grudge at us it seems and was vindictive. A party of men was here in the lane all the evening. We supposed looking out for the Capt. They left as the boys came. They were only a pack of cowards, who cannot face men so well as women.
9. Fine day. As James has a great deal of work on hand (two shops and his farm) and as we have not crop enough to employ him, we have concluded to let V. go home with James and work with him, it being J.’s wish to have him. I shall be better satisfied, than if he was at home for, from character, this is a bad set they have angered. Olivia goes too, for they came purposely for her. We cut and made a light coat for V. this evening.
10. Fine day. They left early. M. going to Chattooga with them to help them along. I feel crushed to death by this great sorrow, and look to the future with dread for I think we have everything to fear if we are subjugated as I suppose we are. O! how dark looks all to me, and that is to be the end of it. Several gentlemen called today. We made a season and set out more potato slips. M. set in to regular plowing today. What a mercy he is with me. And may it please the Lord for him to remain. His judgement is so correct about business matters and he helps us so much.
11. Cloudy morning. I am not well, having passed a sleepless night. Rain today and getting very cool. Lieut. M. returned without getting his horse; Mrs. Smith, Sallie Espy dined here; set out cabbage-plants.
12. Very cool morning. Col. Hale called. He brought my tax receipts having attended to that matter for me. I have paid $240 and the county tax is still unpaid. He knows nothing definite of the terms of surrender yet. We are busily spinning a well-rope to replace the one the Yankees took.
13. Pretty weather. Dr. Woods brought me a sow and pigs today for which I have to pay corn at the old prices. I have none to spare really, but there is no other way of getting any it seems. They are sorry-looking too.
14. 2nd Sabbath. Clear and beautiful day. Soldiers are passing constantly on their way home. It looks like the war was indeed over, for a time at least. I have fears that it is only a lull in the tempest and will be resumed with a dead fury. The girls went this evening to see Mr. Campbell.
15. Fine day. I went this morning and settled my account with M. Smith, the blacksmith. Mrs. Harralson, Mrs. Bruce, spent the day here. A soldier dined here.
16 & 17. Dry and pleasant.
18. Warm and a good rain today. Set out cabbage-plants. Sent Dick over to Crouch’s Mill today with J. Pulling.
19. Very warm and a tremendous rain tonight.
20. Clear; set out potato-slips; the men are getting home fast now. Dick got back all safe. Heard about the death of Dr. Treadwell, who was killed yesterday by Capt. Freeman. We learn that Thomas is coming round with the wagons; nothing definite yet about the surrender. Our Commissioners are still at Washington over the terms of the peace.
21. 3rd Sabbath. Delightful morning. John, Virginia and the children came up and went to Cedar Hill. B. and M. also went. Mr. Wilder called this evening. Had green peas and mulberry tarts for dinner today.
22. Tremendous rain this morning. L. and Mrs. B. drew in a piece of cloth today.
23. Warm. Lieut. M. called on his way from Kingston whither the soldiers have to go to get their paroles. Lieut. P. here this evening. Also E. Espy. He says that Thomas went by Lincolnton to visit his relations as he was so near them and did not know when he would be in N. C. again.
25. Mr. and Mrs. Neely dined here today on their way to see Mrs. Randall who is said to be in the last stage of consumption. Pleasant.
26. Fine weather. I have headache.
27. All appearance now of dry weather.
28. 4th Sabbath. Cool fine morning. Wrote a letter of O. and Virgil, as I shall have a chance to sent it tomorrow. Miss I. Patterson here this evening.
29, 30 &31. Very cool. The rust has appeared on the wheat and I fear will cut it off. Many people, too, are depending on it for bread, in such case I know not what will be done unless it can be brought into the country.

June 1865

1. Very dry and nights cool. Had Irish-potatoes today, but our garden is needing rain bad.
2. Warm. Made a season today and set out slips.
3. Still dry and warm. Went with B. to church. A little better turn-out than usual now that the men have got home and everything is quiet. A great contrast to this day last year when the enemy were here plundering my house and destroying my property. May they never be here again. Went with L. to see Mrs. Campbell; heard of the death of Mrs. Randall. Had beets today for dinner.
4. 1st Sabbath. Clear and warm morning. The girls and M. went to Yellow Creek. Mr. and Mrs. Davis came home with them. A large congregation, they said.
5. Very warm and getting so dry. M. and Dick constructed rope-works and we made our well-rope. A good one too.
6. Clear and very warm. The boys helped Mr. Rudd cut wheat today. I rode to R. Espy’s this morning. Visited Mrs. Rudd this evening.
7. Still very dry and warm. Mr. Rudd and son, R. Espy, cut with us today; our wheat is very sorry, the rust having ruined it.
8. Still dry and hot. I went with Mrs. R. on the mountain to visit Mrs. Bearden. Had a fine treat of cherries and also of honey. Our boys finished cutting wheat today.
9. Still warm and dry. The girls went this evening to Mr. Bearden’s to take back a spectacle case that I brought home by mistake; a fine shower tonight which never came in better time.
10. Oppressively warm. I started a letter to O. and V. by Mr. Brewer this morning. M. set out slips. Hard rain this evening.
11. 2nd Sabbath. Very warm. No preaching near here. Thomas arrived this evening in tolerable health. He has been taking his time and getting along as he could. People assisted him a good deal. He knows but little of what our conquerors will do with us, but our situation for some years will be a hard one; thinks the slaves are free unconditionally.
12. Still very warm. Mr. Hays, Mr. Copelin called. A great rain today.
13. Cloudy. The boys finished the oats and went into the rye.
15. Showery. Making rye-straw hat for T. On this day last year Marcellus was captured.
16. Excessively warm. This evening a storm of wind and hail followed by the greatest rain I ever saw fall. A good deal of damage done. Parson Brindly spent the night here.
17. Still warm. T. went to Shady Grove. I finished a hat for Marcellus.
18. 3rd Sabbath. Warm day. I went with T. and L. to Shady Grove and to Mr. Davis’s. T. preached to a good congregation.
19. Warm. Set out our last slips this evening.
20. Clear and more pleasant. This evening I took up our estate-papers, which has been buried some time. They are a good deal injured.
21. And longest day. Pleasant morning. Assorted the papers and put them away. Mr. Reeves came today. He says there is no business doing in Centre, at all, nor will, I suppose till the new regulations are set up. No Yankees at Centre yet.
22. Very warm. T. and L. set out slips this evening.
23. Sultry. Helped B. tuck a dress. Mr. R. left this evening. He is going to reside in Rome. B. went to Judge Haralson’s this evening.
24. Still sultry. The 5th anniversary of Mr. Espy’s death. B. came home
25. 4th Sabbath. Warm. We are needing rain much now. No preaching near. B. and I went to see A. Hollis, who has been sick.
26. Still very warm. L. Mackey, who is just returned from prison, called to see us; he has been for 16 months in Camp Delaware, the worst of all northern prisons and looks badly. Can our boys ever forget the dismal prisons where they have suffered so much? He says that Mr. Truitte has come up again and will move back this fall.
27. Still dry and hot. R. Espy brought a coat to make. Mr. Truitte came and spent the night with us. The Yankees have established posts where he lives and from what he says they are severer on the negroes than ever their masters were and allow them less liberty. They all are with their former owners for this year at least. Their freedom will not be ratified until Congress meets in October.
28. Cool morning. Mr. T. left early. Commenced the coat the girls helping me.
29. Very warm again. I finished the coat this evening.
30. Still warm and dry. Sowed cabbage-seeds this evening. Rain tonight.

July 1865

1. Rainy morning. Thomas is going round getting subscribers to a school, which he proposes to teach in this neighborhood.
2. 1st Sabbath. Fine day. The girls, T. and M. went to Yellow Creek. Brethren Glazner, Davis and Mrs. Aubrey came home with them. Miss Shackleford called.
3. Clear warm day. Today I contracted with Jane and Dick to serve the remainder of the year, such being the federal law. I give them their victuals and clothing, the proceeds of their patches and they are to perform their duties as heretofore. The freedom of the negroes will not be ratified until Congress meets which will be in October. Mrs. Brewer here this evening.
5. The warmest day of the year yet. Went with L. down to John’s. All well there.
6. Still warm and dry. Mrs. Bearden spent the day here; Mr. and Mrs. Campbell the evening. Brother Joe Espy brought Virgil home this evening--left all well; O. wrote me that she does not think the pills Dr. P. sent her has done her much good, that she will remain till fall, unless I want her to come sooner. V. has grown in height, I think. He wished to see us he said, I am glad he came, for I want him to go to school every day.
7. Still warm, and no prospect of rain. Wrote to O. this evening as Brother Joe insists on starting back in the morning. B. is going with him for he won’t travel by himself. She will return with Mr. B.
8. Another warm day. They started early this morning. Cut a vest.
9. 2nd Sabbath. Still warm. The boys went to Concord. G. Bearden came to dinner.
10. Warm. This evening Mr. Hale in haste for M. as the Tories are in the vicinity. They have taken R. Hale prisoner until they can find his son L. Hale, against whom they prefer charges of taking their property. M. was not at home, but he could not have gone had he been here, as he has nothing to ride, the mules having been driven to mill today.
11. Showery. Another squad of Federals in this morning--taking up the branded horses and mules. The band captured L. Hale yesterday and compelled him to make restitution. Making coat for Marcellus.
12. Warm. Mrs. Bearden called bringing straw to make Giles’s hat.
13, 14, and 15. Dry but more pleasant; had general house-cleaning. Shower this evening. Visited at Lieut. Patterson’s this evening.
16. 3rd Sabbath. Cloudy. Went to Cedar Hill with M. and V. Mr. Clifton preached to a good congregation. Virginia and children were there. Showers today. Hard rain this evening. T. came home from Shady Grove.
17. Cloudy. Thomas opened his school this morning. M. and V. attending. Mr. R. Thornton came today to see me about boarding his adopted son, whom he wished to attend the school, and to stay here. I was sorry, but I could not accommodate him. He got him in at Mr. Mackey’s, however. T. had 35 scholars today.
18. Showery. I am unwell. Finished G. Bearden’s hat.
19. Very warm. Still not well. Preparing thread for the loom.
20. Sultry.
21. Still hot. Drew in our cloth and commenced weaving. Lieut. P. called. T. had 40 scholars.
22. Still warm. Mr. Hale sent for the boys to attend at the crossroads as they hear that the Tories are coming and wish to make some arrangements about meeting them. Dow Hale having orders from the Federal Commander at Jacksonville to make up a Co. for the defense of this country. G. B. called for his hat. Mrs. B returned today, but B. did not. She is sick of flux. Babe has also had it, but she is nearly well. James’ family had it also.
23. 4th Sabbath. An extremely warm day. M. went to John’s. A. Espy spent the night here. Miss I. Patterson here this evening.
24. Very warm. Made hat for Alfred. Shower this evening.
25. Sultry. Engaged in weaving. Thomas’ school still increases and I think he likes the employment very well. Pretty rain.
26. Warm with light showers. Dick is helping R. Espy on a sugar-mill. Susie sick tonight; gave her calomel.
27. Still very warm.
28. Sultry with a light shower. Susie sick again tonight.
29. Still hot. Susie better. I called on Mrs. B. this evening.
30. 5th Sabbath. More pleasant. T. and M. went to Shady Grove. The negroes also.
31. A very warm day. Getting on very well with my weaving.

August 1865

1. Very warm. The meeting is still going on at Shady Grove; Dick went today. A. Espy came tonight. He starts for B. in the morning. T. has 49 scholars.
2. Warm. Alfred left early. A fine shower this evening; making hats for Mrs. Howard.
3. Still sultry. Finished my weaving. Mrs. Bearden called this evening.
4. Warm. Unwell today and threatened with diarrhea which is very common in the
country; I think I have woven too hard this hot weather.
5. Still warm. We put out a few dryers of peaches this morning. We have but few peaches this year to dry. Our main orchard being turned out by the Yankees. Went with Thomas to Yellow Creek. Brother Davis came to dinner. Shower today. T. went to Mr. Glenn’s to see Mrs. Hendricks, who is very low and wishes to hear preaching; he will preach tonight.
6. 1st Sabbath. L. and the boys went to church. Parsons Glazner and Culberson came home with them. Mrs. H. died yesterday afternoon and is to be buried at Yellow Creek this evening.
7. Went to church today. A good meeting. Berenice got home this evening. O. is improving in health, but there was complaint in the family.
8. Very warm. Put out more fruit today. The meeting increases in interest.
9. Sultry. Went to church. A lively time today and again at night. The house is generally crowded at night. A good many inquirers.
10. Still very dry and warm. I did not go today. Marcellus joined the church today. He professed religion about a year ago, while in prison. Rock Island, is to him a sanctified place. A great excitement tonight. Judge Walden dined with us today.
11. Excessively warm. Refilled our dryers. T. and M. went to church. Parson G., Mr. and Mrs. Davis came to dinner. He preached this evening at Mr. Hays’s. Mrs. H being bedridden. She joined the church this evening. M. sat up tonight at Mr. Stimpson’s whose two children are very low with fever.
12. Still sultry. The night is the most pleasant time to attend church. A great excitement tonight; two joined the church--one professed. Parson and Mrs. Glazner came home with us.
13. 2nd Sabbath. Sultry. Large congregation. Mr. Smith, a Presbyterian preached today. He and his sister-in-law, Mrs. King, came home with us. I went tonight. A good meeting and the meeting breaks tomorrow at the water. Three are to be baptized.
14. Still hot. Mrs. M. left this morning. B. went with M. to the mountain on which the baptism was performed and the meeting broke. I should have liked to have been there, but we all could not go. T. resumed his school this morning. A shower this evening. M. sowed a few turnip-seeds.
15. Still warm. The shower did but little good, the sun shines so hotly; put out more fruit; Mr. Stimpson’s children are on the mend.
16. Sultry; cut a coat for A. Espy and commenced sewing on it.
17. Still very warm. Went with B. to cousin Agnes’s thence to the mineral-springs and dyed some thread copperas in the sediment for Virginia. Called at Mr. S.’s to see the sick children. Both are better, but one is very low yet.
18. Hot. Commenced making syrup at Mr. B.’s for our cane is ready and will not wait. R. Espy being sick puts me out, about the syrup. We made today the best article of it I have ever seen.
19. Still dry and warm. Went on with the syrup successfully. T. and L. went this evening to Mr. Campbell’s.
20. 3rd Sabbath. Dry hot day. Went to Yellow Creek with L. and the boys to hear our old preacher Wm. Minette. He preached the funeral sermon of Mr. Howard and sons to a large congregation. Went this evening to see Mrs. Hays. She is mending. A most atrocious murder was committed last Thursday night on the person of Mrs. Hall, a few miles above Cedar Bluff. Her husband, who has hitherto, a respectable man, has been arrested on suspicion of having committed the crime. She leaves 7 children, one of which, a babe, lay on her arm deluged in blood, but unhurt.
21. The hottest day yet. At work on the syrup. A light shower this evening. T. went to Shady Grove tonight to meeting.
22. Warm; cut our indigo; also cut and commenced a coat for J. Espy.
23. Cooler. We are progressing finely with our syrup making, though we have to boil it in pots.
24. 25. & 26. Still dry, and hot. Finished of syrup boiling for a time. We have our barrel nearly full and several gallons loomed out. It is the best I ever saw. The meeting at Shady Grove is still going on, but we have been too busy to attend; meeting commenced today at Cedar Hill. 1. went to Shady Grove last evening.
27. 4th Sabbath. Warm. John and V. came up to attend the meeting. V. brought her trunk and expects to remain till the close. Mr. Shook, J. Espy came to dinner.
28. Cool mornings now, but so dry and dusty. Went with V. to church today. Mr. Finley, who reached here a few days ago, dined with us; he brought a letter to me from Mrs. F. They are so nearly broken up by the Yankees that they are not able to return here this fall. She is much dismayed at the fatal termination of the war in which she has lost 2 brothers.
29. Still dry. V. and B. went to church. A good meeting. T., who is not teaching this week went with the girls tonight. Our boys are gathering fodder .
30. Light showers. Went with V. to church and spent the day. Mr. F. came and went with the girls to night meeting. Election of delegates to the Convention and administering the oath of amnesty to the men before allowing them to vote. T. went to Centre for the double purpose of taking he oath and voting. He preached tonight at Cedar Hill. A good meeting.
31. A pretty rain today. V. and B. went to morning service, and attended the burial of Willie Stimpson, who died yesterday. The meeting closed.

September 1865

1. Showery. I have made a mistake in my dates, for it was today the meeting closed and yesterday was Election-day.
2. Cloudy. We finished a coat for T. Virgil took V. and children home this morning. T., B., and M. went to Yellow Creek. Parson G. and Mr. B. came home with them. John sent word to me by Virgil to meet him this evening over at L. Cunningham's to see if we can get anything for what he is owing B. and myself. He having left and the creditors are taking what they can get. It rained so that I could not go.
3. 1st Sabbath. Cloudy. M. went to Church. T. and L. to Shady Grove, where T. has an appointment. John and W. Cunningham came this morning. W. C. is willing to let us have anything left there if it suits us.
4. Warm with shower this evening. I met J. T. this morning at the ferry with the wagon. I went to visit Mrs. Adrian, L. to visit at Mr. McGhee while John tended to our business with W. Cunningham. We brought away several things, some of which we have no use for, but it was better that, than nothing. Among them is a gine that we have not use for. We got a cupboard, wardrobe, two bedsteads, a corn sheller, one pair of andirons, an old wheel-barrow. Met John and L. at Mr. Goode's. Marcellus started to school again. V. is helping Mrs. B. with her syrup in Dick's place today.
5. Still warm. Making hat for Mr. Adrian. Gathering peas. Sheared our lamb.
6. Very warm. Sunning wheat; went with B. tonight to Yellow Creek, but Parson G. did not come. A good congregation out.
7. Cloudy; A. Espy came today. I got our kettle, having finished his mill at last. B. &. L. drawing in the loom B.’s dress.
8 and 9. Cloudy with showers; T. went this evening to an appointment on Spring Creek. Hard rain this evening.
10. Sabbath. Still cloudy; Mr. Russel is conducting a meeting over the river but none of us have gone yet; I went this evening to see Tip. Rudd who is in bad health; Parson Neely, & Clifton there.
11. Warm; we recommenced making syrup; a good rain this evening. Olivia came home accompanied by Joseph; she thinks her health is improving, but she does not look well yet; left the relatives all well.
12. Still warm; we went on with the syrup-making, but it is not so fair as our other, the cane being very ripe. O. &. Joseph went to visit Virginia. All well at John's.
13. Warm; syrup-making; they came back this morning; fourra?
14. Still warm; we finished our syrup this evening; B. and Joseph went to Cousin Agnes's. Mr. Finley spent the night here.
15. Very warm; Mr. F. &. Joseph left early; O. preparing wool for a dress; M. went to meeting tonight over the river.
16. Still warm; T. went Shady Grove; had a general house-cleaning. M. went to meeting again tonight; hard rain tonight.
17. 3rd Sabbath. Warm; G. Bearden spent the day here; the young folks went to singing at Yellow-Creek this evening; L. Mackey came with them.
18. Still warm; helping O. prepare the mixed wool and cotton for her dress; not feeling well today.
19. Cooler; still helping O. as it is a serious job.
20. Very cool cloudy day; finished mixing; Miss Mackey, Mrs. Hale came home with the boys from school.
21. Warmer; Mr. Finley called to bid us good-bye & to know if I wished to send letters by him to my relatives in N. C. I finished letters this evening for Aunt Cleaveland & Mrs. Finley. His aunt is the last one of my mother's numerous family of brothers & sisters. I wish that I could see her.
22. Pleasant day; Virgil & Dick hauling rails to rebuild our fencing which the Yankees burnt.
23. Warm; made a matrass this evening.
24. 4th Sabbath. Still warm; went with O. to visit Mrs. Hays; she is able now to be about her business; spent a pleasant day with her.
25. Very warm for the season; visited Mrs. Campbell this evening with Lizzie.
28. Pleasant morning; Virgil & Dick started to mill & the wool factory 25 miles above here, L. went with them, to her Father's. Helping O. with her work.
27. Pleasant; B., O. & M. went to a candy-party tonight at Mr. Hay's.
28. Still fine weather; the boys came home this evening; Dick is very unwell with diarrhea & has been for the last two days; they left my wool for L. to bring tomorrow when she comes with her Father, who will attend the Association at Shady-Grove.
29. Cool nights, but very warm days; I went this evening to see Mr. Jones about getting some work done; L. & her Pa came tonight.
30. Pleasant day; T., O. and myself went with L. and Mr. McNeely to the Association; a good congregation; I attended the sitting of that body this evening at the house; there was preaching at the stand; O. who has not been well lately, had a bad spell tonight; I did not sleep much for her fever lasted all night; I am distressed about her, for it seems that medicine does her little good.

October 1865

1. 1st Sabbath. Very pleasant day; O. better this morning; the boys, B., L., &. the negroes all went to the association.
2. Fine day; went with L., B. & Virgil to the Association; Parson McNeely preached to a large congregation. B. supplied T.'s place in the school.
3. Cool morning; L. went home with her Father; we drew in O.’s dress.
4. Fine weather but so dry and dusty; gathering corn. B. went to visit Virginia and make collection of the patrons of her school last year.
5. Pleasant; I am getting on finely with O.’s dress considering the fineness of it.
6. Still fine weather; Mr. Sandford Smith spent the night with us; it has been nearly 4 years since I saw him; I am always glad to see an old friend and hear him talk.
7. Cool; T. gave his Calhoun-land to Mr. T. in exchange for a couple of mares this morning and then started to take Mr. S. to Jacksonville; I went to the tan-yard this evening but got no leather.
8. 2nd Sabbath. Fine day; Miss M. Shackleford called; John and Virginia came home with B. O. not well this evening. Vivia stays this week.
9. Cool and dry; I went to see Mr. Jones this morning about making. O. some fine shoes and repairing M.'s saddle. M. is disabled by a boil every day.
10. Pleasant excepting the dust; O. not well; I believe she has slight chills every day, as she has fever; making her dress.
11. Very cool night; O. still unwell; went to Mr. Jones's this evening.
12. Fine day; Mrs. S. spent the day here; Marcellus better, O. still feverish every day.
13. Still pretty weather; T. started to Gadsden to take another oath, but heard there was no one there to administer it and came back. He then to meeting on the mountain, B. supplies his place at school. A good rain this evening.
14. Rainy; cut our indigo; quarterly-meeting commenced at Cedar Hill today; T. went to Shady-Grove. O. is getting better.
15. 3rd Sabbath. Cool day; B. and the boys went to church taking Genevieve with them to go home with her parents. Dr. Ralls, whom I have not seen for some years took supper with us. O. better.
16. Still cool; rebuilding our fence.
17. Fine day; Virginia spent the day here, Mrs. Williams, the new bride, and Miss Sue Hale visited us this evening.
18. Cloudy and a little rain. I fear it will be cloudy tomorrow and obscure the great annular eclipse which I am anxious to see.
19. Clear; the eclipse was to me a grand sight, I never saw one of that kind before and will hardly see another. The weather became sensibly colder during the eclipse. Weaving bridle reins
20. Pretty weather; we need rain to sow wheat; Amelia Espy spent day here. At work on my woolen-counterpanes.
21. Still cool; finished the counterpanes.
22. 4th Sabbath. Fine day; I went with O. to see Cousin Agnes, what a contrast between this quiet peaceful day to what this sabbath was last year, when for the first time we heard the roar of cannon at Blount's and the enemy with us all the time.
23. Fine day; and although there his been but very little frost yet the Indian-summer has fairly set in; the leaves are getting yellow and there is that haze in the atmosphere peculiar to this season. Went with O. in the wagon to John's as B.'s patrons has promised her some hogs. I wove this morning a band for the gin-wheel, the Yankees have destroyed our gum-elastlc one.
24. Warm; got but two shoats, and brought them home this morning. Parson Price stayed here last night. Commenced spinning wool-- the rolls are very sorry; I hardly know it is my own wool, but was exchanged at the Factory. Marcellus again badly off with boils.
25. Still clear and warm; one of the shoats got out this evening.
26. Getting cloudy; M. better; Mr. Bouchelle, a nephew of Mr. Finley called this evening.
27. Rainy morning; the dust is once more laid, and people may plow their ground. L. returned this evening, and James and Margaret Espy also. They left all well at home.
28. Cool; had house-washing; R. Espy dined here.
29. Frost this morning. Maggie went with B., O. and M. to Smiths Chapel to hear Dr. Ralls preach. She and Olivia went home with Virginia from church. Cold day.
30. Cold morning; the girls came home; making preparations for O.'s marriage which is to take place to-morrow night. We will have no one out of the family present, however. Bartered for some castings this evening; a thing I greatly needed but had to pay high for; Joseph Espy arrived this evening accompanied by his cousin Mr. Davis.
31. Pleasant; James returned with Virginia; J. Espy went to Centre where J. Trippe met him and returned with him; Thomas performed the ceremony, and we had quite a pleasant little family-party. I feel grieved to part with her for she is all in all to me. She has had entire management of the household affairs for some years and is resolute and untiring. May she be blest with the husband of her choice.

November 1865

1. Beautiful day; Olivia and party left early, Marcellus going with and driving Maggie, James took his oxen; Virgil and Dick going with him to Chattooga river to help him on. What a change is made in the family by her final departure. She has often left before, but we knew that she would return again, now we know that she will never be here again what she has been. Resumed wool-spinning.
2. Commenced raining.
3. Still rainy; Mr. Brewer called to let us know the bridal-party got safely home. He dined there yesterday, had a small party at dinner he says
4. Clearing off cold; finished my wool spinning; Mr. Bouchelle came this evening. Getting very cold.
5. 1st Sabbath. Ice this morning and so cold I did not go to Church; Mr. B., Thos., and Berenice went, Mr. B. left this evening.
6. Still cold; M..returned this evening; left all well; James was so unfortunate as to get one of his oxen killed after getting them home.
7. Fine day; breaking fallow-ground to sow wheat in; J. visited Mrs. Rudd this evening.
8. Fine cool day tho’ we had ice this morning.
9. Still cool; warped my jeans web this evening.
10. Cold; drew in the cloth and commenced weaving.
11. Pleasant; T. brought 2 hogs home he got of Mr. Beck; my jeans is very wide and consequently right hard work.
12. 2nd Sabbath. Pretty day; no preaching; M. went to the singing at Cedar Hill; T. visited at Patterson's this evening.
l3 . Fine day; I must be very busy as I have V.’s harness which she will soon need herself; besides I have a great deal of weaving between this and Christmas.
14. Cloudy; our folks commenced sowing wheat on the Truitte place, G. Whitton plowing for Thos. Commenced raining.
15. A good deal of rain fell last night; I am getting on well with my jeans, making a superior article of cloth.
16. Fine warm weather; our boys finished the wheat sowing.
17. Very warm; I went to Mr. Stimpson's this evening to see about getting a hog.
18. Warm day; T. and L. went to Shady Grove; the boys went to Mr. S.'s and brought away the hog Mr. Jones brought home M.’s saddle this evening.
19. 3rd Sabbath. Fine day; B. and J. went to Cedar Hill; John and Virginia came up; M. barely able to walk with a boil.
20. The finest weather I ever saw; planted a crop of Shallots which Mr. Davis sent me; L. planted peas at the Tatum place where they propose living next year threatening rain this evening.
21. Clear again.
22. Fine day; got cut my jeans today.
23. Warm pretty day; drew in a web of cloth for Sis. It works light and well and will give me no trouble.
24. Cold mornings but warm days. It is said by the "oldest inhabitants" that such an autumn has not been known before. Parson Glazner dined with us today.
25. Still fine weather; turning colder.
26. 4th Sabbath. Fine Indian-summer like weather; spent this day at Judge Haralson’s pleasantly. A fine family; they will soon return to their home in DeKalb Co. The judge is in very bad health.
27. 28. 29. Still fine weather; finished Virginia’s cloth; cold.
30. Very cold morning; went with L. to Centre as I find I must also take the oath of amnesty. Stopped at Judge Walden's, went with L. to Echol’s where she did shopping. Mr. E. went with me to the Provost Marshall's Office where I subscribed to the Oath. Visited Mr. Pratt this evening. Spent a pleasant day. Mrs. W. is a very pleasant woman.

December 1865

1. Warmer; making pants for Marcellus.
2. Warm fine day; none of us went to Yellow Creek but T.
3. 1st Sabbath. One unpleasant thing took place this morning with Jane. She has been giving me trouble for some time. Wished to do she pleased, regardless of her contract. Parson G. and G. Bearden came to dinner. L. had a tooth drawn this evening.
4. Pleasant; drew in a dress for Jane.
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23. I have suffered a long time to elapse since I wrote in my diary; I have been so busy with the winter clothing I have not spared the time. Many things have taken place. Thos. closes his school on the 16th; we have had some very severe weather. It is severe now but notwithstanding Olivia, Joseph, Thos. and Victor came this evening. O. is in better health, and looks better, left all well at home.
24. 4th Sabbath. Rainy unpleasant day.
25. Christmas-day and cold. O. and her company and Virgil went to John's this evening. Jane was married tonight to Aaron a man who formerly belonged to Mr. Ellis. They had license and were married by T. as white people. They will live with Mr. Ellis.
26. Still inclement; the boys returned this morning, Joseph and O. this evening. Busy making M. &. Jane clothing. T. moved today to the Tatum place.
27. Warmer; went with O. to Hale's where they have again a store, it looks like old times. They have sold nearly out they say; we make a few purchases. Calico is 35 cts per yd. and other things proportional. Thomas and Lizzie also came.
28. Clear and cold, John and Virginia came up to day. Miss Roper came also, M. made an agreement with Dick to work here next year. Another hand will work with them and I am to find everything and give him the 6th of the entire crop. M. goes to Georgia to live with James and learn a trade. They start tomorrow.
29. Cold; they left early, Virgil going with them to the river. Miss R. left this evening, and later Jane moved off with her plunder. I could not help feeling sorry to see her go; she has in many ways been faithful and I shall miss her much. Besides, I have no idea that freedom (so called) will be any advantage to her. I must set up now, a new way of life. After having had servants for 50 years I must now be my own servant or subject myself to having a stranger in the family which I do not by any means like. A man who formerly belonged to Mr. Truitte came today to hire himself and wife to me but I could not employ them. Mrs. Truitte has returned to her home, her desolate home, and has found it much devastated tho’, not by the Federals for they did no harm there.
30. Cold cloudy day; I am suffering with toothache, I think B. and I will get on nicely with the housekeeping. The kitchen presents quite a different appearance to what it did during Jane's administration of affairs for she would have it lumbered in an unsightly manner in spite of admonition, and she wasted time awfully too.
31. 5th Sabbath. Still cloudy and rain this evening; my tooth has got well; the last dayof the year. I am thankful for our peaceful condition, for our health, and that it is as well with us as it is in every respect. May we at the close of another year be as well off as we are now.