January 1 - December 31, 1949
(Box 5/Folder 4)
January 1, 1949
Nice day, but I stayed at home and worked. I finished my MS but for some last minute entries to be made after I hear the A. & M. & OU football results. J.C. Lytton called. He is home from University of Chicago.
January 2, 1949
Lovely bright warm day. Mother and I went to church. Then went over to the Leakes and listened to music. Then took Mother for a drive.
January 3, 1949
I went to the city and bought a very lovely coat – just rabbit, but doesn’t look it. It cost only $69, which with tax was $84.18. I am very happy about getting it so cheap. It is a miserable cold day threatening snow.
January 4, 1949
A few flakes of snow fell last night and it was pretty cold this morning – about 15° I guess. But it cleared off before noon and got to be a lovely day, but still crisp. I went to business meeting of A.A.U.W.
January 5, 1949
Back at work again. The weather is still bright and beautiful with the snow melting. There was none of the cloudy weather that usually follows a bright melting day.
January 6, 1949
Beautiful day. I talked again with lovely, blond Mrs. Walters, who is a German war bride. She has charge of the Diesel library at the college.
January 7, 1949
Nothing much happened. I am making a map for “Oklahoma” – in fact finished it this morning. Mr. Ransom will do the actual drawing.
January 8, 1949
Warm day but rather cloudy. The Hammond sisters took supper and spent the evening with us. We enjoyed them very much.
January 9, 1949
Cloudy day. I went to church & S.S. Mother stayed at home. In P.M. I started over to Leakes.’ To listen to music, but my windshield iced over within a block or two, so I came back. Mr. Leake came over and got me – has new contraption to prevent icing.
January 10, 1949
Storm all over the state. Round pellets of snow fell last night and today – about two inches deep. Cars have a hard time getting traction. I took the bus – thought I’d let the driver worry.
January 11, 1949
I saw a car run into a truck on Main St. This morning everything was covered with a glare of ice. Driving is hazardous, walking embarrassing. I took the bus again. It is pretty cold, too. The campus is breathtaking in its white beauty. The pines especially make great soft rosettes.
January 12, 1949
Warmer with some sunshine, but not enough to melt the ice on the trees. Stillwater is completely cut off from wire communication with the outside world. The newspaper has to rely on the radio. The trees are lovely. Every pine needle stands out separately with its white covering. I used the bus again.
January 13, 1949
Bright beautiful day. All the ice dropped from the trees, and much of it melted from the streets. I can’t get my garage door open, so I still take the bus. It is threatening rain tonight.
January 14, 1949
Dark, sloppy thawing day. I finally got my car out of the garage. For two days now I have been making a record of legislative action for the use of the president.
January 15, 1949
Rained last night – two hard showers this morning – beautiful, warm, bright afternoon – lovely clear night. This rain must have done much good to the land and the crops. It has been very dry for months.
January 16, 1949
Cold day & colder tonight. I went to church but mother didn’t. Then Alice Carlson took dinner with us. In the evening we and several others of the library staff had a buffet supper at the Low home. We spent a delightful evening.
January 17, 1949
Down to 14º in Stillwater this morning. To me that’s cold. The Nelson book came back from Knopf, so I wrote to Savoie about it. I hesitated to send it to him for he has a bunch of professional readers who for some reason are hostile to me.
January 18, 1949
Snowed last night and off and on all day – about six inches, soft and even. It was warm and nice. I drove out through it this morning to the college to hear a lecture buy one of the editors of Harpers – Merle Miller. Very clever, not too deep.
January 19, 1949
Cold all day. I went to Wesleyan Service Guild this evening. Nice supper, nice service. I enjoyed it. Impo Henry is president.
January 20, 1949
I spoke to University Dames this evening. Fine group of young wives, but crowd small because of important basketball game. Fine girl named Joy Bortmas took me out there. Cloudy all day – thawed very little.
January 21, 1949
It thawed very little. The snow is packed on the streets as hard and slick as ice. The only way to control a car is to drive so slowly one can sort of herd it in the right direction.
January 22, 1949
It started melting this afternoon. It was dark and cloudy all day, but didn’t actually start raining till this evening.
January 23, 1949
Mr. Copeland told us he is going to San Antonio. Rained all night and practically all the snow was gone this morning. It was cloudy and misty all day – but warm. It is certainly good to be rid of the snow. I went to church this morning. Then we took dinner with the Leakes, listened to the Philharmonic and then Harold read the life of Dolly Madison.
January 24, 1949
Turned cold last night with high wind blowing. Pellets of sleet (or snow) fell till the ground is covered an inch deep – like white sand. It is about 18° but seems colder.
January 25, 1949
More of the round pellets fell during the day. They are about two inches deep. It is hard for a car to pull through it. I couldn’t pull into our alley from the north where it is uphill, but backed out and came in from the south.
January 26, 1949
Warmer, but not melting. The pellets of sleet are about four inches deep all over. I sent my Nelson MS to the OU Press. Knopf didn’t want it – too local in interest, he said.
January 27, 1949
Sleet and rain last night put a coating of glass on everything. Then before noon it started soft beautiful snow – about two inches. Then it cleared off – bright sky, fleecy clouds. And now they say another storm is coming.
January 28, 1949
Graduation and baccalaureate both in one day – 573 got degrees. Rev. Wright of Tulsa preached this morning – good sensible sermon, not very profound. Dr. Hosler, Supt. of U.C. gave address this P.M. – less profound. It was terribly cold, about 17° at noon. No snow fell and the sun shone some, but the wind blew.
January 29, 1949
Sun shone all day but it didn’t melt at all. This is the coldest day we had. A bus and about 30 cars were stalled in a drift east of Enid. The people were O.K. – went to farmhouse etc. – but cars were there all night. It was 19 hrs. before snow plows freed them. Many were A. & M. students.
January 30, 1949
Cold all day. The paper said it was zero at 10:30 when they went to press and of course it got colder. It didn’t warm up at all during the day thought the sun shone. I went to church – stayed home the rest of the day. I listened to the Philharmonic by myself. [It was 7° at 3:30 a.m.]
January 31, 1949
It was 18° this morning, but rose to above freezing shortly after noon, and really thawed some this P.M. The sun shone most of the day. I think I have found a better apartment, but am afraid to count too much on it. Supposed to be vacant June 1, but apparently will be now.
February 1, 1949
Thawing today but the snow is still deep. Mr. Cross dug my driveway down so I could get the door open and get my car. We rented the apartment. The location is fine; it has three rooms; and there is a furnace. I took Mother out to see it. I told the Crosses and they were very nice about it.
February 2, 1949
It thawed some, but the snow is still deep. I worked all day at the library so I could have some extra time to move.
February 3, 1949
Bright, beautiful day – still much snow left. The paper says it was the coldest and wettest January in the history of Stillwater. We plan to move tomorrow. I dread the work.
February 4, 1949
I packed and we moved today. So happy over new place. Dr. Chapman carried all the boxes, etc. Snow thawing but I got stuck in the drive and had to be pushed, and the man who moved us got stuck and had to shovel out. Our furnace is fine.
February 5, 1949
Thawing today, but drive still so blocked I didn’t try it. I straightened up the house and it is certainly nice. When I got it done I called the Leakes to help me rejoice. I had kept the moving as a surprise. They were almost as pleased as we.
February 6, 1949
Frozen solid this morning and so slick I walked to church. This afternoon asked the Hammond sisters to come over and see the new house. I had kept it as a surprise to them, too. I made apple dumplings. It thawed all afternoon but much snow remains.
February 7, 1949
Thawed this afternoon but there is still considerable snow. It was a great relief to cross the street to the campus instead of driving over the icy streets.
February 8, 1949
This morning for the first time things were not frozen. Most of the snow is gone now. It is pretty cold tonight. I went down town and bought some necessary things for the house.
February 9, 1949
We are having bright clear days and the snow melts in the P.M. Most of it is gone now except in the shade. The streets – now clear – are terribly damaged by holes made by freezing and thawing under the snow. The Leakes sent us a lovely cyclamen.
February 10, 1949
The snow is still packed solid in the shade. I am still so happy in the little cottage I can hardly contain myself. Every day Miss Gordon adds something new to our comfort. Today it was bathroom and kitchen curtains.
February 11, 1949
It was warm today, but some of the snow still lingers. This evening Mrs. And Miss Garrett called, and Mrs. Williamson came over for a little while. We had a delightful evening.
February 12, 1949
I went down town and got two throw rugs for Mother’s bedroom. It was warm today, but turned cloudy – and rainy. Then about 8 o’clock in the evening the wind struck very hard. Then it began to get cold.
February 13, 1949
We find we had a bad storm last night – demolished a farmhouse northeast of town. Just in driving to church I saw the porch torn off one house, several holes torn in the roof of the Catholic church, and one section where trees were terribly broken. . This afternoon it sleeted hard pellets and the ground is white. It is very cold. Dr. Chapman called.
February 14, 1949
More in the paper about damage done by Saturday night’s little twister. It continued sleeting hard balls last night – three inches deep by morning. It thawed some during the afternoon.
February 15, 1949
Another bright, beautiful day. Nothing in particular happened except we went to a dance program on the Allied Arts and it was n.g. More snow going.
February 16, 1949
Another afternoon of thawing. Most of the snow is gone except in the shade. Everything is running water. I attended the dinner and meeting of Wesleyan Service Guild. Fine dinner and good fellowship. I was the leader of the meeting – subject, Hawaii. Apparently the meeting went off rather well.
February 17, 1949
(no entry)
February 18, 1949
I went to the City with Mr. Low (returned on the bus) to hunt pictures. Had pretty good luck. Saw Ralph Hudson, Stanley Clark, Gilbert Hill, R.G. Miller. It was a hot day, but a little snow still lingers in the shade.
February 19, 1949
We went down town and got some very attractive material for a slip cover for Mother’s chair. We have it over here with us.
February 20, 1949
We should have gone home today and got some things we have been needing ever since we got our new house, but it was a dark stormy day. It sleeted only a very little here, but some parts of the state reported dangerous roads. I went to church this morning, Bishop Carson preached – revival services this week. I listened to music at the Leakes this P.M.
February 21, 1949
(no entry)
February 22, 1949
I went to an executive board meeting of A.A.U.W. this evening at Mrs. Welch’s We plan to go home tomorrow if the weather is good. We want to take some things back and get others. We have wanted to do it ever since we moved.
February 23, 1949
Cloudy this morning. The weather man predicted no rain but we were afraid to trust him. And it was a good thing we didn’t for it rained most of the afternoon. [Later – Stillwater paper says it rained .19].
February 24, 1949
Beautiful warm day. I took Mother for a drive this evening. Gilbert Hill was here on the campus and he brought me some fine photographs. It was certainly good of him to do it.
February 25, 1949
Coldish day, cloudy and threatening rain so much we were afraid to try the trip home. I took Mother to have her hair trimmed.
February 26, 1949
It threatened all day, so again we didn’t go home. I hope it will be so we can go tomorrow. Brysons invited us to dinner after church
February 27, 1949
Rained last night – no chance to go home. Today is Mr. Copeland’s last Sunday, but he didn’t preach at 9. It was T.Z. Koo – wonderful speaker. Also at S.S. Dr. Milliken spoke. I listened to music this P.M. at the Leakes. Grace Goodman called up.
February 28, 1949
Very white frost – they had to scrape it off their windshields. Cold and bright this morning, clouding up this P.M. I heard John Oliver Nelson give fine talk to faculty on “Religion in Higher Education.” The students are turning out in droves to hear these “religious emphasis” speakers. Sent off chair to cover.
March 1, 1949
Snowed all day great soft flakes. Most of it melted but the ground is white. The Leakes took supper with us. In the evening I went to A.A.U.W., where we listened to a religious emphasis speaker named Copeland – a very poor stick.
March 2, 1949
The chair came back today. Mrs. Armstrong did a wonderful job making a slip cover for it. She charged only $5 material cost $16 – cord $.50 – hauling $1.50. Total $23. We called on the Crosses. Cloudy, dark day – not too cold. The Leakes came by to see the slip cover. I saw our good Marshall pastor – Bill Hestwood – on the street. He started going to college here this semester but we haven’t made connections. He missed only one day these terrible roads.
March 3, 1949
We plan that delayed Marshall trip tomorrow. Warm sunny day, the first we have had for so long we had almost forgotten such exists. And for the first time since before Xmas the weather predictions are favorable.
March 4, 1949
Bright spring day – terribly rough roads. We enjoyed the trip thoroughly. Saw Mrs. Hawkins, Pearl, Claudia, Bernice, Raymond[,] Bill Oliver, Ted Merrell & Sally Heydeman, and watched the band march. Carried home bed, brought back pillows, pictures, tidies, etc. House looks fine.
March 5, 1949
Some more spring weather. We are getting ready for discussion of Round Mountain battlefield site at meeting of Payne Co. Hist. Soc. Meeting tomorrow. This evening Bob and Billy Horton came for dessert and spent the evening. How we did enjoy them.
March 6, 1949
New minister at church this morn: Dr. Stowe. Not so charming as our beloved Mr. Copeland, but an even better preacher – intellectual background better. Then Chapman, Melton, Muriel Wright and I went out to supposed battlefield site. Met Gardiner & Trickett from Tulsa. The P.M. Meeting discussed evidence. Chapman and Miss W. ate sandwiches with us & I took her to bus.
March 7, 1949
I was very tired today. Bill Hestwood took dinner with us, but he has solid classes so his visit was short. He took home two boxes of superfluous stuff. Such a fine young man!
March 8, 1949
Weather sort of cloudy and threatening. I made a brief call on Mrs. Williamson this evening.
March 9, 1949
Several hard showers last night, and snowed most of the day. I never saw such big flakes – like snowballs. Some of it melted on walks, etc. but the grass is white. Cold this evening.
March 10, 1949
Cold this morning. I went to Guthrie on the bus and attended to the tax assessment and homestead exemption. Saw Grace Goodman. Poor girl! She has been ill with her heart. I had a nice visit with her.
March 11, 1949
Got teeth cleaned this morning. This evening took Mother for a long drive. The grass shows very faintly green – also the wheat, which was delayed by the long dry fall.
March 12, 1949
Heard Carl Sandberg [sic]. Was impressed by his all-embracing humanism, but he seemed to have a little trouble thinking of words, and in articulating them as though he were very tired or ill – or even intoxicated.
March 13, 1949
To church and S.S. this morning; radio listening at the Leakes this P.M.; then a long drive with my mother. This is a cloudy day. We would have gone to Marshall today only for that.
March 14, 1949
Attended wonderful concert of Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra with Dorothy Leake. When we got out of the auditorium we found the wind had turned to the north and it was pretty cold. (Dorothy and I found a great contrast between our usual radio listening and the real thing.)
March 15, 1949
I went to meeting of the Writers’ Club as a guest. Found it very interesting. There was Mrs. Bishop, Mrs. Childs, Miss Pierson, lovely Miss [Burris] – did I forget her name again? – Mrs. Engle, Miss Caldwell, and Mrs. Bumgartner. Mrs. B. can really write.
March 16, 1949
Nothing much happened.
March 17, 1949
Rained a little and got pretty cold.
March 18, 1949
Bad news from Nelson book – rejected by OU Press. Bright day – had a wonderful trip to Tulsa with the Leakes and Mrs. Bum. Mrs. B. is the wife of an Englishman who has come to take charge of the Diesal laboratory. She is very interesting. We visited Philbrook where Miss Field took us around and Gilcrease where Mr. Hargrett did the honors. Gilcrease will be opened in May.
March 19, 1949
Nothing in particular happened. We did see a house, a miserable wreck, which a real estate agent tried to high pressure into buying for $9,000. Jessie and Mrs. Douglas are coming tomorrow.
March 20, 1949
Had a wonderful visit with Mrs. Douglas and Jessie. They got here about nine. I took them to see the Veterans’ Village and showed Jessie the maps. Then Jessie and I went to church. Alice Carlson came in the afternoon – which made it perfect.
March 21, 1949
Rained off and on during the night and a little today. This evening the wind rose and it is very cold. I shall hear Dorothy Thompson speak tomorrow. I have admired her a long time.
March 22, 1949
I enjoyed the dinner. It gave me a lift to see my friends in formal dress – the only time this winter. I am not so sure about Dorothy Thompson. She may be right, but I doubt it. Warm day.
March 23, 1949
I was tired today, so tired I did not use my ticket to an Allied Arts concert.
March 24, 1949
Windy day. I took Mother for a drive after school. It was nice by that time, and is a lovely evening. Probably there was a dust storm at Marshall. Plums are blooming, but spring is very late.
March 25, 1949
Went to O.C. with the Leakes & the Burns and Lou Emma Breckinridge to see the greatly-Oscared “Hamlet” with Lawrence Olivier. And it was so shallow it was disgusting. Movie brains are not up to it. It rained off and on during the day here and in O.C. apricots are blooming.
March 26, 1949
It cleared off about noon and has been a beautiful bright day with a clean blue sky. I hope it will be nice tomorrow for Grace Goodman is coming.
March 27, 1949
Had a very nice visit with Grace, but we are worried about her for she is far from well. In the afternoon we drove around and looked at houses. One was a very good buy – a solidly built brick with oak woodwork throughout for $9,000. But it is not for us. Too big.
March 28, 1949
Grace went back to Guthrie this morning. I really do not think the visit tired her. And it was good to see her. I took her down to catch the nine o’clock bus.
March 29, 1949
Went to meeting of A.A.U.W. council. I have not been a useful member of that group this winter.
March 30, 1949
Got very bad news from Jessie Douglas. Monday Mrs. Douglas woke up with a bad headache, and soon became unconscious. I am so glad we got to see her. I am afraid this is the end. And last night Canton was swept by a tornado. I hope Dr. and Mrs. Rogers are safe.
March 31, 1949
We looked at the house we liked best when we drove back Sunday. It is very well located, has six rooms, is well built but nothing nice, and is priced at $9,000.
April 1, 1949
We got the bad news about Mrs. Douglas. She died yesterday morning without ever regaining consciousness. Will be buried Sunday at 2:30 just two weeks from the time we were all enjoying our visit together.
April 2, 1949
It was snowing when we woke and snowed most of the forenoon. The grass was covered with white, but on the bare ground it melted. This is the day of the Marshall band festival. We had planned to go if the weather had been good.
April 3, 1949
Threatened rain all day but didn’t. This is the day of Mrs. Douglas’s funeral. Exactly two weeks ago at that very hour we were all sitting and taking [sic] – Alice was here too – and it was just like old times.
April 4, 1949
I worked hard getting my pictures ready to send Savoie. He is really ready to start. This P.M. I got a helper, a very intense little girl from South Africa married to an American G.I. She is very homesick. These international marriages are hard. Name Anne Finley.
April 5, 1949
I worked hard another morning on the pictures. It is a complicated job deciding on locations, captions, etc. Heard a speech so poor it was disgusting at the Library Staff meeting – by Dean Thomas. Went to A.A.U.W. dinner this evening. Heard wonderful lecture by Dr. Oglesby.
April 6, 1949
Billy Horton – bless her! – came and spent the entire afternoon with my mother. Mother greeted me so happily when I came home. Billy had gone into the kitchen and helped with the dishes.
April 7, 1949
Really warm day. I went down town and got two slips and a pair of shoes. The shoes cost $9.98 or just about twice what I paid for an identical pair in Stillwater a little more than two years ago – when we had price control. Mrs. Cross called. We were so glad to see her.
April 8, 1949
I am pretty tired these days – my work in keeping up with the legislature is too hard. I have had Mrs. Finley to help some this week, but both of us can’t catch up they transact business faster than we can record it. This evening Mother and I went to a music listening A.A.U.W. group at the Hammonds.
April 9, 1949
I was too tired all day, but worked hard. It rained a little and threatened more. We would have gone home if the weather had been better.
April 10, 1949
I thought I would rest today so didn’t go to church. Mrs. Wilson called this afternoon. I went over to Leakes’ and listened to music on the radio.
April 11, 1949
I saw a Margaret Webster production of Macbeth. It was very fine. My mother is laid up with a catch in her knee. I put her to bed when I went to the play. Dorothy Leake used Mother’s ticket.
April 12, 1949
Mother had another bad day with her knee. She wants to exercise it, but I finally prevailed upon her to rest it. Saw a very wonderful production of Hamlet – no scenery, poor stage, but real interpretation. Certainly different from Olivier.
April 13, 1949
I managed to convince Mother she should rest her knee, so she lay and sat around most of the time. It got so she could walk pretty well by night.
April 14, 1949
I took Mother to Smith clinic for a scaly place on her face. We were turned over to Dr. Nelson, who seems very nice. He gave her a prescription for her face, and found her blood pressure high, so I will take her back next week.
April 15, 1949
We drove home for Easter vacation Things are finally getting to look like spring – redbud and plum blooming along the creeks. When we got up on the prairie it was really lovely with the wheat so green. Nothing like that in the rough country around Stillwater.
April 16, 1949
We had a very happy day at home. I cleaned both closets, spent some time down town meeting friends, then took Mother for a drive on some of our favorite roads through the lovely wheat. Saw Sadie’s beautiful new house.
April 17, 1949
How we did enjoy the church service, meeting old friends, etc. In the afternoon I enjoyed a nice visit with the Stuerkes. Then Mother and I went for a lovely drive. Put a great armful of lilacs on the graves at the cemetery.
April 18, 1949
Drove back by way of Guthrie, so we could leave Mother’s doll with Grace Goodman for Eighty-Niners’ Day. Worked this P.M. Grace is feeling better.
April 19, 1949
Had a very nice dinner party at Mrs. Holt’s. I certainly did enjoy it.
April 20, 1949
Nice day.
April 21, 1949
I took mother to the doctor again. Her blood pressure is still up – about 210 – but there is a big difference between systole & diastole – which is good. He prescribed some medicine.
April 22, 1949
Eighty-niners’ day. Mrs. Hawkins came over with Bill Hestwood to spend a few days. This is a beautiful day – really warm this evening. The first warm day we have had.
April 23, 1949
I worked at various things. Sent my Nelson manuscript to the Arthur H. Clarke Company. I hope it turns out O.K. Really hot.
April 24, 1949
Church this morning – fine sermon by Mr. Stowe. Then I took Mrs. H. for a drive over the campus & veterans village. I went to the Payne Co. Hist. Soc. this P.M. – had fine meeting. This is another hot day – bright and pretty though.
April 25, 1949
Not quite so hot today. The lawns and trees are greening up beautifully. These last days worked wonders. Mrs. Hawkins went home today. She is a dear little thing. Got news that poor Mrs. Brabb is dead.
April 26, 1949
Went this evening to A.A.U.W. executive council meeting. Got some real inside history of the struggle on the part of some branches to decide on acceptability of members after society decides eligibility – meaning keep out Negroes.
April 27, 1949
Good shower last night. (At least I think that was the time; I delayed making my entry.)
April 28, 1949
I am not so tired as usual. I have worked too hard ever since I tried keeping up on those legislative matters early in Jan. But Anne is helping me and now we are able to do it without working at such high tension.
April 29, 1949
Again had a little slack time, so am not so very tired. I have been too busy for nearly four months – working at highest possible tension.
April 30, 1949
Nothing much happened. I worked hard on that complicated Round Mountain article.
May 1, 1949
The Davises and Mrs. Goodman called briefly. We went to a concert by the college symphonic choir in the afternoon.
May 2, 1949
Had a lovely drive with Mr. Melton and Mr. Harold Straughn out to the supposed battlefield of Round Mountain. I came back from running up and down the creek entirely fresh and rested.
May 3, 1949
(no entry)
May 4, 1949
(no entry)
May 5, 1949
Mother got a permanent. It cost 7:50. She says it is better than the one she got last year.
May 6, 1949
Nothing much happened. We are going to Tulsa tomorrow to spend the week end with the Rawlins family.
May 7, 1949
Rained last night Drove over to Tulsa with Mother this morning. Am visiting with Lorie Beth and Joe and Ruth Ann. It is wonderful to see them.
May 8, 1949
Rained last night. We took a wonderful drive up through the green hills to the FP Ranch. Went through the Woolaroc museum – saw many buffalo, deer, etc. on the grounds. Mother got pretty tired going through the museum.
May 9, 1949
Had lovely drive back to Stillwater. The weather is cool now. I hated to leave Lorie Beth and family for they are being moved back to Shreveport and I may never see them again.
May 10, 1949
I went to the university with Mr. Stratton, Miss Phelps, & Mr. Shelby in Mr. S’s new Buick. Took Mother along and left her with Grace Goodman and the Davises. Am attending meeting of Okla. Lib. Assn. Heard very fine speech by Dean Taylor (I think that is the name) of OCW.
May 11, 1949
Finished up the convention and had a lovely drive home. Mother reported a very good visit at Guthrie. As for me I met several fine people: Esther McRuer, whom I had known in college, Alice Marriott, and then in Guthrie Lucille Langston.
May 12, 1949
The weather is warming up. In about one more day it will be hot again.
May 13, 1949
Went to Pi Gamma Mu dinner with Ruth Hammond while Grace H. visited with Mother. We heard a very superficial lecture by Dean Thomas of the School of Commerce, who depends on personality to cover up intellectual deficiencies.
May 14, 1949
Mother & I Went down and busted ourselves on wedding presents for two very special girls – Betty Congdon and Gertrude Emory. It rained some this morning. I should have liked to go to Marshall for H.S. baccalaureate of a class I greatly love. I finished my “Round Mountain” article.
May 15, 1949
The Hortons called – showed us their brand new Ford. Hard rain last night – no chance to get to Marshall. I went to church & S.S. while Mother listened on the radio. I loafed in the afternoon. In the evening we had a very nice surprise visit from the Gingerichs – Their newest girl is “Robin.”
May 16, 1949
Amarillo wrecked by tornado yesterday. It was on south side far from Gladys and Katherine. We are having unsettling weather here – showers this afternoon.
May 17, 1949
Had nice visit with Velma Payne, who spent the middle of the day with us. We love Velma.
May 18, 1949
Very hard rain last night. Tornado hit the edge of Meeker yesterday evening. I got permanent – cost $7.50. Hope I’m worth it.
May 19, 1949
Terrible electric storm overhead last night – could have turned into a tornado on the instant. It kept me from making a trip this evening to Blackburn with the Leakes – unwilling to leave Mother alone.
May 20, 1949
More rain last night. And every morning the radio reports more tornadoes. Mother and I took supper and spent the evening with the Hammonds.
May 21, 1949
Got new dress in Enid – paid $15. Rain here last night – report of tornadoes this morning. I took Mother to Enid to see Dr. Duffy because her blood pressure is up – nearly 200 he says. For a wonder it didn’t rain. Beautiful day. The wheat around Enid is the finest I have ever seen in Okla. except the year my father died.
May 22, 1949
Lovely day – tornadoes have passed on to Ill., Ind. Etc. I went to church. Loafed rest of day. Pretty tired from yesterday’s trip.
May 23, 1949
[I made no entry here. I do not remember the Stillwater weather, but I think this was the day when the terrible hail wiped out some of the fields around Marshall. And it was wonderful wheat.]
May 24, 1949
We drove out for a brief visit with Walter and Betty Thomas at the Veterans’ Village. It seemed so wonderful to see them I can hardly understand why we let the whole year go by without.
May 25, 1949
Regular flood this evening with considerable hail. The lights were off about two hours but came on as we were getting ready for bed.
May 26, 1949
Okla. Hist. Soc. met here today – a very wonderful meeting thanks to the enthusiasm and careful planning of B.B. Chapman. John Melton spoke on the battle site – Gaston Litton on archives. Both covered themselves with glory. “Hog” Thompson gave a very entertaining after dinner speech.
May 27, 1949
Hard shower this morning – no hail, no threat of tornado. I did some revising of my “Round Mountain” article to include some things I learned yesterday.
May 28, 1949
The Lawrence Lindleys were here today. They are very fine people. He was once the supt. of the Friends’ school at Shawnee – then at Wyandotte – so they are almost Oklahomans.
May 29, 1949
Rained all night – threatened all day today. I went to church – heard a fine sermon by Dr. Stowe. We took dinner with Mrs. Wilson & Norma Jean; then called on the Crosses. Mr. Cross fell from a roof and hurt his back. Baccalaureate services this evening – mediocre sermon.
May 30, 1949
For once it didn’t rain. Very good commencement address by Sen. Clinton P. Anderson – 1200 degrees – very inspiring sight.
May 31, 1949
Finished packing. Distressed to find that man I had engaged to haul things can’t do it till Thursday P.M. – so had to load some things in car. Got too tired and couldn’t do much when we got home about noon. I did clean my bedroom & unpack some boxes. Distressed at ravages of last Monday’s hail in fine wheat around Marshall.
June 1, 1949
Today I took down the stove and finished cleaning the house – all but the kitchen. It seemed so nice we called Pearl over to see it – then Claudia came over and we had a nice little visit in clean surroundings.
June 2, 1949
Spent most of forenoon weeding flower garden. It looks nice. Then the man came with the goods -- $12 to haul. I unpacked some. Also cleaned kitchen.
June 3, 1949
Took Mother to Enid to doctor – blood pressure down to 150. Shirley Doak called on us. I did a great deal of unpacking, but didn’t get it finished.
June 4, 1949
Unpacked some more. Most of the work is now done. If only it would stay clean till I come back.
June 5, 1949
I went to S.S. in morning also to Iln [?] Church because Bill has gone to conference. Took dinner with Mrs. Hawkins. Then Betty’s wedding and reception. The uplifted faces of the couple as they came down the aisle –
June 6, 1949
Drove out to Muskogee and out to Bacone to meeting of Nat’l. Fellowship of Indian Workers. I got pretty tired. Hit a calf in the road. It didn’t dent the car, but the calf looked a little dented.
June 7, 1949
Hard rains this P.M. & evening. I have met several people who will help me in my work. I went to town and got my hair fixed. Took along Ethel Montour of Rochester, N.Y., a very interesting Mohawk.
June 8, 1949
I had a very fine conversation with the Lawrence Lindleys. I am enjoying these meetings very much – am much impressed by the ability and sincerity of the Indian members.
June 9, 1949
Took supper with the Foremans. Bless them! Cable came off my battery driving in and my car stopped. Colored boy repaired it temporarily. Had a hard rain this evening while I was at the Foremans.
June 10, 1949
Another very fine day at the conference. These Indian leaders are certainly fine. In the P.M. I went in and got Mrs. Foreman and brot. her out to see the arts & crafts. Also got new cable for car & new cotton dress.
June 11, 1949
Finished conference and drove up to Vian where I am staying in the big house of a very lovely Cherokee lady, Mrs. Wilson. It poured all forenoon.
June 12, 1949
Rainy day. Mrs. Wilson and I drove out to Sycamore Church. Then in P.M. I went to drive Mrs. Harris to Redbird Smith community.
June 13, 1949
Very hard rain this P.M. Mrs. Harris & I had planned to go to Even Shade for Bible school but roads too bad, so drove around & visited people in the valley. Very profitable day.
June 14, 1949
I went to Sallisaw & talked to welfare woman there. Then came back & talked to the school supt. Mr. Traw – very interesting. For a wonder it didn’t rain bad today.
June 15, 1949
Went with Mrs. Harris out to Redbird Smith community – talked with his descendants, walked past stomp ground. No rain.
June 16, 1949
No rain Went with Mrs. Harris over terrible roads to Evening Shade community – then got poor little woman and took her to Sallisaw for Wasserman test.
June 17, 1949
Not a very profitable day – went to Gore to see a Mr. Whisenant but missed him. Then went to Dwight Mission with Mrs. Connoley. No rain
June 18, 1949
Had fine conversation with Mr. Foreman Carlile in charge of vet farm program. Then came to Muskogee & found room at John W. Porter home 525 South 14th, phone 819.
June 19, 1949
Met Fred Watsons and son Bobby. They are here for Cumberland Presby. Gen. Assembly live at Columbia, Tenn. They wanted to see Inds. So we went to Vian, picked up Mrs. Wilson, & rode in Mrs. Harris’s jeep up to Creek Baptist Church in Evening Shade nhbd. – enjoyed meeting & friendly hospitality of the Inds. Hard rain up as far as Vian.
June 20, 1949
Went to the agency and found Supt. Roberts very sincere and intelligent and co operative. I waited all day on some material he gave me.
June 21, 1949
Worked again at the agency.
June 22, 1949
My proof finally came for “Oklahoma,” and I am reading it. Hot day for such hard work!
June 23, 1949
It rained last night, and so I had a cooler day for my proof reading. I am still having trouble with my publisher’s desire to write my book.
June 24, 1949
Hard shower this forenoon. Beautiful cool day for hard job of proof reading. I am reading it the second time. There were so many typo. errors I was afraid of missing some.
June 25, 1949
I worked hard another day on my proofs. I finished the second reading and started the third. The galleys are full of typos.
June 26, 1949
Went to church this morning. Heard a wonderful sermon by the preacher whose name is Finis A. Crutchfield. The rest of the day I read proof, and started my letter, which is in the nature of an ultimatum to the University Press.
June 27, 1949
Sent out my proofs. Then worked at the Agency, but was too tired to accomplish much. Very hard rain before daybreak.
June 28, 1949
Good day’s work at the Agency. Hard shower this morning. Nice cool day.
June 29, 1949
It was rather warm today and I was tired. Didn’t get too much done.
June 30, 1949
Hot day. The tribal leaders had a meeting in the office – not the chiefs, but their deputies. I met a Mr. Maytubby, who lives in Muskogee. I was greatly impressed by Charles E. Grounds of the Seminoles and John F. Davis of the Creeks. Fine Indians both.
July 1, 1949
Hot day. Worked at Agency. Met a very wonderful young Ind. – a Baptist preacher named Marcellus Williams, a brother of John Davis. I have met some fine people at the Agency – Marie Hayes, a Miss Croom and a Mrs. Hull – all Cherokees.
July 2, 1949
The agency is not open Saturdays, and so I spent the day organizing my notes. It was very hot until a rain threatened in the late afternoon and now it is delightfully cool.
July 3, 1949
Went to church this morning. Spent the afternoon in the beautiful Honor heights park.
July 4, 1949
Special delivery letter from the University Press. It seems I lacerated their feelings a little but I am not going to be treated as something lower than a freshman writing a theme. It rained several times today, and was nice day to work.
July 5, 1949
Came up to Tahlequah this morning – spent day with Ames, Miss Portia Vaughan (music) and the Hunts at Sequoyah school – also weaving center. I am at Tahlequah Motel – a good but expensive tourist court. Hard rain this afternoon.
July 6, 1949
Drove up to Stilwell early today. Went around all day with Mr. Kennard – also Dr. Weeks. Met a number of Indians. Hot day – got rather tired. Am staying at very pleasant hotel.
July 7, 1949
Spent morning driving around with Mr. Kennard – also Dr. Weeks & a Miss Wyatt (I think). Saw early Baptist church – “Breadtown” – also Watts – visited Inds. Drove back to Muskogee – very tired, but spent very profitable trip. Hot day.
July 8, 1949
Spent day working at Agency. Mrs. Elizabeth Cosgrove (Williams) called this evening. She feels a little frustrated because she has not published all she would have liked. Rain last night.
July 9, 1949
I worked at home. Part of the time I corrected proof on my “Round Mountain” article for the Chronicles. Pretty hot day.
July 10, 1949
Heard two wonderful sermons by Dr. Takuo Matsumoto, who was in Hiroshima when the bomb fell. I drove over to Gore in the heat today to see a man, but because of a slip I missed him.
July 11, 1949
I was pretty tired today – and weather very hot. I quit early and bought me a dress for $18.51 (including tax and 1.50 alteration). It is real silk – very pretty.
July 12, 1949
Showered a little today and cooled off this evening. But I am still pretty tired.
July 13, 1949
Nice cool day. I finished my work at the agency and planned to leave tomorrow, but Mr. Roberts advised me to see a woman at the courthouse who is out of town today; therefore I shall stay over.
July 14, 1949
Worked some more at the Agency after all. Saw many people in town. Had a short visit with the Ira Williams family. I had not realized they were here. I called on the Foremans. I am afraid I shall never see them again. It almost broke my heart to smile and take my leave.
July 15, 1949
Drove over to Wilburton (cool day, thank goodness) where I am stopping at a decent but most horrible hotel – the worst I ever saw, in fact. I talked with Pres. Dunlap of E. Okla. A. & M. and was taken over the Wilburton project by a very nice Mr. Conley. Met a fine old Indian named Labor & his white wife.
July 16, 1949
Came down to Durant – cool day, and I am not at all tired. Stopped at Savage Tourist Camp for a night – very fine. Called on Chief Bevin but learned little. Stopped to see Dorothy Leake – found Harold and his mother there. My hat blew out of car & another car ran over it on the road so I bought new one here $3.50.
July 17, 1949
Went with the Leakes to a barge on the Buncombe arm of Lake Texoma, where the Univ. of Okla. has a barge carrying on fish research. Saw interesting things – had a ride in motor boat – saw Camp Little. Saw college campus and site where Leakes are building house. Spent evening with the Houstons – the Leakes took me.
July 18, 1949
Day started bad. Drove up to Atoka to meet Mr. Anderson by appointment, but he never showed up. Then in P.M. went to Ind. office, talked with Mr. Wilson, and went out to a colony of Miss. Chocs. around a Baptist church. Then called on the Downing family at Atoka. Son Fred was there and we had a most wonderful visit (Was with Mrs. Manning).
July 19, 1949
Went out with Mrs. Manning to visit some of the loan clients. Then drove to Chickasaw church 100 years old and talked with some of the Chickasaws. Came back and am spending night with Dorothy Leake.
July 20, 1949
Drove to Idabel starting at Hugo to see the Firebaughs. I got very tired. Went out with Mrs. La Grand (a grand person) to visit some Choc. spinners. It was so interesting I got rested. Am in pleasant tourist cottage.
July 21, 1949
Went out with Mrs. La Grand to her class in beadwork northeast of Hugo. None of real Inds. there – much interest on the part of white “Inds.”one of whom, Mrs. Jefferson, is starting a shop in Hugo.
July 22, 1949
Rained and got cool. Went out with Mr. Robinson and Mr. Rogers to visit loan clients. Met several up and coming and some just starting Indian families.
July 23, 1949
Rained several times today. I drove to Wheelock & saw Mrs. Black – also drove out to old stone church. Meant to see Germanys this P.M. but they are in O.C. Did many “catch up chores in the cabin.
July 24, 1949
Hard rain most of the day. Went to St. Matthews Church, east and I think south of Broken Bow, with the Firebaughs. Was deeply impressed with the seriousness of the Indians and their love for music. Enjoyed their rippling Choctaw – “trippingly on the tongue.”
July 25, 1949
Drove to Atoka, stopping along the way to see Pub. Welfare people at Hugo & Antlers. Nice and cool threatening rain this morning, but it has not rained here. I talked with Mr. Hampton Anderson this P.M., which was my reason for coming here.
July 26, 1949
Sick all night – found out later it was because I opened door to car stall and tar smell was overpowering. Breakfast helped and a cloudy day. I drove to Holdenville and spent afternoon going over Kallihoma project with Mr. Feighny. I am going to bed at seven – have a fine cabin with overhead air conditioning.
July 27, 1949
Had wonderful night’s sleep in best tourist court I have found – slept 11 hours. Had fine morning with Mr. Feighney – spent P.M. rather unprofitably at Wewoka. Talked with Mr. Holmes – found him rather satisfied as things are.
July 28, 1949
Came to Okemah this P.M. & spent it rather unprofitably with Miss Littlejohn & Rev. Hill, a Creek. Spent forenoon in courtroom at Wewoka – also talked with Mr. Grounds and a fine Seminole girl named Factor.
July 29, 1949
Just about even 2,000 mi. on speedometer Drove home – arrived about 11:30. Found the page proofs of my book got here the same day I did. But I didn’t open the package. Very hard rain this evening – and it has been dry here. I am glad I got here before the roads got muddy.
July 30, 1949
Worked all day on my proofs. Some of the most objectionable editing was taken out, but a little still remains. How I have fought for that book! It rained most of the night last night. Got a little warm this P.M.
August 1, 1949
Worked some more on the page proofs. This weather is delightfully cool since the rain.
August 2, 1949
Finished the page proofs and sent them out by Mistletoe. I found eleven places – and probably thirteen – to which I object, but most involve only a few words.
August 3, 1949
I worked on my index all afternoon. This forenoon I had some other things to attend to – one was the map, another some slight revision of an article for R. Hudson.
August 4, 1949
Worked hard all day at index. We are having delightfully cool weather for this hard job. Tried to start my car and the battery seemed dead.
August 5, 1949
Finished the index slips and started sorting them. I wish I did not have the nagging worry about the objectionable editing.
August 6, 1949
Had to buy a new battery – cost $20. The last one was $12 I think. I worked at putting the index together. It got rather warm this afternoon.
August 7, 1949
Went to S.S. and church, and how nice it was to see everyone. Took mother for drive in afternoon.
August 8, 1949
I worked hard again on my index. It rained a little this evening. Beautiful sunset.
August 9, 1949
Finished the index all but copying. It rained hard several times today.
August 10, 1949
Took Mrs. Hawkins to Douglas. Worked hard on the index – planned to get it copied and off today. Called Miss Stith and found all our differences regarding editing are resolved – also that there is no need to get index there before Saturday – so slowed down.
August 11, 1949
Got my index off on today’s mail. Now my troubles with that book are all over.
August 12, 1949
Washed all the dirty things I brought back from my trip – also did some alteration on mother’s dresses. It got hot today – first hot day for a long time.
August 13, 1949
Sewed some more – also loafed – a new experience. Hot day – looks like rain tonight. Raymond Bryson called to give me a magazine and stayed to visit.
August 14, 1949
Went to church & S.S. Drove out in P.M. to see dear Dorothy Clark who will be married Sat. – left gift. In evening Leta Fae Friend and Eugene Braun called. Wonderful young people.
August 15, 1949
Started to write belated report to Ind. Rights Assn. but a man came with some very fine Hale peaches at $2 a bu. We bought 2 bu. & canned 44 quarts. (using plenty of water). I never saw peaches so easy to can.
August 16, 1949
Canned the rest of the peaches – 55 qt. in all. Then I wrote my report and got it off on mail this afternoon. After that I loafed a while.
August 17, 1949
I worked all day sending off pictures I didn’t use in my book. They came back from the publisher yesterday evening. I had borrowed from many sources so now I returned them today.
August 18, 1949
Mrs. Adams wanted to go to Enid to get her eyes tested. They pained her till she couldn’t drive so she asked me to drive for her. It was wonderful to drive her new Plymouth.
August 19, 1949
Got material to cover three comforts I went to Enid to take my mother to Dr. Duffy to be checked – also got my eyes tested by Dr. Vandever. Dr. V. also looked at Mother’s eyes but there is no help for her. This summer she has been “reading” talking books.
August 20, 1949
Dorothy’s wedding day. Bless her. I cut out and partly made a new house dress. It takes longer to make one because I always have to spend time planning. But this time made me a pattern and hereafter will cut them out and sew them up.
August 21, 1949
Went to church – rather to S.S. – no church because Bill was called away by the death of his sister’s husband in a plane crash. Grace Goodman and Marilyn and her two fine baby sons were here. Then we took dinner with Mrs. Hawkins and had a nice visit.
August 22, 1949
I finished my dress today. It is really pretty – a green print trimmed with some white embroidery from the scrap bag.
August 23, 1949
Worked at comforts I went to Enid and got my glasses. I went out into a beautiful new world and I have felt a lift of spirit ever since. I had not known I needed glasses so badly. The change had been so gradual. Mr. Krause called
August 24, 1949
I worked on comforts – also went in the afternoon to the WSCS at Mrs. Hamiel’s – had a fine time. Mrs. Hawkins came in and we talked over an attempt to get old age assistance for her.
August 25, 1949
I finished sewing up all the covers for the comforts. Then I ripped up the ragged cover from an old comfort and pinned on the new one. The cotton is soft and fine and clean.
August 26, 1949
I tied and bound the comfort. It is beautiful – really the most beautiful I have ever seen. It is not an old one made over but a new comfort. The cotton is as good as new. But we had used that worn-out comfort 25 years.
August 27, 1949
I got a gas pump put in my car. Some gas had leaked back – Mr. Wilson said it could catch fire. I got another comfort all finished but tying. Also I wrote a careful letter to the Welfare Dept. about Mrs. Hawkins.
August 28, 1949
Went to S.S. & church then had fine dinner and visit in Adams home. Then I took Mrs. Hawkins out to see Lucille and Bill to tell them to explain to welfare people the complicated situation of their undivided assets. When I got back my battery cable shorted and took fire. I left car on Main St.
August 29, 1949
Car O.K. this morning – got new cable. Put up the coal heater, packed the books and writing things, the bedding, and the clothes. Will leave August 31 if practicable. We are having a lovely cool Aug.
August 30, 1949
I finished packing all except what must wait till morning. We drove up to the cemetery – beautiful up there. This evening Mother finished “reading” Prairie City on her new record player for the blind (and near blind). It rained a little last night.
August 31, 1949
Phoned to man who hauls us and found he couldn’t do it today. Good thing, for we had a shower. We went to Mrs. Hawkins’ and I made the last comfort all but tieing [sic]. It is really cold. We have had a fire in the coal heater all evening. I think the rain is over.
September 1, 1949
Moved to Stillwater. We got here at three, but the man who hauled load had tire trouble and didn’t arrive till about six. Unpacked bedding and hung up clothing. Forgot to have gas turned on & so ate cold lunch. Very cold day but used electric heater.
September 2, 1949
Used electric heater all forenoon. Unpacked most of load in forenoon. Went to library and found my key unavailable but some carpenters were working in Quonset so I unpacked and checked a box of maps that came during summer.
September 3, 1949
Couldn’t work in (Quonset) library because locked. Finished unpacking and cleaned up debris. Wanted to buy some throw rugs but didn’t get around to it. Did look at some. The floor is freshly varnished and the old davenport rejuvenated.
September 4, 1949
Rained all night and part of morning. I went to Presby. Ch. (Meth preacher gone), where I sat by the Ted Prices. The Leakes were here for dinner. Then we went to their house & listened to radio and for a long drive in their beautiful new De Soto. Wonderful visit with them. We shall miss them sorely.
September 5, 1949
Wrote letters, etc. and washed. Holidays, so-called, are good for getting work done.
September 6, 1949
Bought Mother and me new hats – $6 each. Also got three rugs – $10.95 each for 2, $6.95 for the other. Worked at maps in the afternoon. Warm beautiful day.
September 7, 1949
Looked for filing case – two firms had them ordered, but not here yet. Worked at maps in P.M. Helped mother make some carrot cookies for the Leakes who are starting for Durant at 4 A.M. tomorrow.
September 8, 1949
Rained this forenoon Mr. Low, who has been at a library meeting, returned today, and he showed me a very nice spacious place upstairs in the Quonset that he has prepared for me and my maps. I am very happy about it. Worked at moving
September 9, 194
Finished moving my maps to the new place. Had good help. Roy Hauch – fine boy. In the afternoon (can’t think of his name) feature writer of Oklahoman came to see me and almost talked my arm off. [Vinson Lackey.]
September 10, 1949
Finished a comfort I had all done but tacking. Worked around house all day. We are having beautiful weather. Found about a house for sale on Ramsey $10,500.
September 11, 1949
Went to Presby. church this morning. Then Jack and Anne Finley took dinner and spent afternoon with us. We enjoyed them very much. Drove by the house. It looked very nice.
September 12, 1949
We looked at the house. It is nice, but not well planned. Much larger than ours, but with less space. Lovely back yard. Very hot day but nice shower this evening.
September 13, 1949
Nice cool – almost cold – day. I thought we might get a call from the real estate man. We couldn’t pay all cash for the house but he thought he could get man to finance it. But he didn’t call.
September 14, 1949
Surprised very much when it started raining in the night. Rained all day. Students coming to campus to enroll. Mrs. Williamson called this evening. She has taken the garage apt. where John Harper lived last winter.
September 15, 1949
Cloudy all day but I don’t remember that it rained. Mr. Doty told us of another house on Knoblock. It looks nice, but is a little far away – price $8,700.
September 16, 1949
We went through the house and it is exactly what we want – a real buy – but it is six blocks from library site. I can walk it now but will have to drive when I am older.
September 17, 1949
Looked like rain but didn’t. Mother and I went down town to have our absentee ballots notarized – also told Mr. Doty we thot house too far from library site.
September 18, 1949
We went to Methodist church – 11 o’clock service – church packed at both services. It is a pleasure to see all the students out. Called in P.M. on the newly-wed Chapmans, then Hammond sisters. On verge of rain all day but only sprinkled.
September 19, 1949
(no entry)
September 20, 1949
I had no lights on my car – also (though I didn’t know this, so must have just got that way) generator wasn’t charging. Paid $23+ to get it fixed.
September 21, 1949
Mother and I attended dinner and study program of Wesleyan Service Guild. Not very interesting – most of the capable members absent.
September 22, 1949
Mother and I are listening to Shirer’s Berlin Diary on talking book for the blind. She is eligible since she has not been able to read for about nine years. But she will not play the records – too much effort in her feeble health – so I have to play them for her. Anyhow it is easier for me than reading aloud.
September 23, 1949
(no entry)
September 24, 1949
Learned of President Truman’s announcement that Russia has the atom bomb. (Too busy to hear it on radio yesterday) This may be the end, but I can’t help it – none of the decent nations on earth can.
September 25, 1949
Drove to church at Marshall; then packed up some things, brought them back, and unpacked them. Surely enjoyed meeting the friends at church.
September 26, 1949
Went to courthouse and used law library Worked as usual. Bright beautiful day like all the days of this delightful fall. I am trying to invent a system of cataloguing maps.
September 27, 1949
Mother’s birthday. I surprised her with a little present – a water set. She happened to mention the fact to Mrs. Gordon, and that dear old lady hurried home and baked her a mince pie. Then in the evening I asked the Gordons and Mrs. Williamson to help her eat ice cream and birthday cake and they gave her a lovely plant. Special election today.
September 28, 1949
At the election yesterday Prohibition was upheld by a substantial majority and a bond authorization carried for buildings at public institutions. Mother and I had already cast absentee ballots. Lovely day.
September 29, 1949
Pres. spoke at convocation about summer in Europe All seven of my beloved M.H.S. freshmen here in college spent the early evening here. Then when the girls had to make the dormitory 8 o’clock deadline I put on my long dress and Ruth Hammond and I attended the Lahoma reception while Grace H. stayed with Mother.
September 30, 1949
Nothing much happened. Tired this evening. Lovely weather this fall.
October 1, 1949
Worked around house in forenoon and did week’s shopping. Tried to write in P.M. but many interruptions.
October 2, 1949
Mother and I went to church this morning. In P.M. called on the Garretts and the Crosses. Mrs. Williamson called this evening.
October 3, 1949
I went to a concert by four negro singers – Homer Smith’s Melodaires – good singing but some very tin-panny piano numbers.
October 4, 1949
It rained today. This evening I went with Mrs. Williamson to a registration coffee of the A.A.U.W. Went down town and bought filing cabinet for $64.25.
October 5, 1949
My filing cabinet came this morning. I took out the drawers to move it around – found it went best in corner behind kitchen door – then couldn’t get them back.
October 6, 1949
Warm day. The man who sold me the cabinet had to come out and put the drawers in. I am checking magazines for the Union List supplement.
October 7, 1949
I am working hard four hours every day on my report for the Indian Rights Association. We are having hot weather.
October 8, 1949
Worked at my report till mid-afternoon. In evening went to library picnic at Miss Graves’ – lovely warm night. Even Mother didn’t get cold. Had wonderful food. Then some of us saw pic “Mr. Deeds Comes to Town”
October 9, 1949
Got up late (It was after midnight when I got home from show) – I went to 11 o’clock service. Mother didn’t go. In afternoon I took Mother driving and we went to the park and saw the flowers. Hot day.
October 10, 1949
Nothing in particular happened. It rained a few gusts of big drops last night and today it is cooler.
October 11, 1949
Another nice cool day. We are enjoying a bouquet of roses and some trailing morning glories the Hammonds gave Mother. They are wonderfully generous with flowers.
October 12, 1949
Mr. Doty called to say the price of the nice little house has gone down to $8,200 or possibly $8000. We like it but concluded it is too far.
October 13, 1949
had asked the Marshall freshmen to meet with me, but I guess the boys forgot it in the intervening two weeks. Anyhow only the two girls came and Chan Duel. I was a little disappointed, but probably they do not need hometown contact.
October 14, 1949
Nothing in particular. I am working hard on my Indian Rights Report every morning, on checking magazines for Union List of Serials in the afternoon.
October 15, 1949
We drove home – found a funeral in progress at the Methodist Church. Bruce Crossfield had killed himself because his long-suffering wife had finally left him. People are pretty badly shocked about it. Mrs. Henry Seefeldt also died this week, very suddenly of a stroke. We went to the cemetery and I cleaned up our lots.
October 16, 1949
We went to S.S. and church at home (Mother just S.S.) The Olmstead sons and grandsons were out in force. I spoke to Earl, Merritt, and Ivan. Kenneth was there, too, has become a very fine man. Bill preached a really good sermon.
October 17, 1949
Back at work. Nothing much happened. The library staff – bless them! – are planning a celebration when my book comes out. Dr. Dale is going to be the speaker. Ruth Hammond is in charge.
October 18, 1949
Anne Finley was here briefly, mentioned casually that she was having trouble with the immigration authorities. I called Dr. Oglesby and he promised to help her. Then she trembled and shed some tears, and I found she had been terribly worried.
October 19, 1949
I saw Anne at the library – I often do, in fact – and again in her relief at having some help in her immigration troubles, I saw how terribly worried the poor child had been. Some fool official despot had threatened to deport her – and she saw herself separated from Jack, and sent back home.
October 20, 1949
Hard showers today. My Okla. – Foot-loose, etc. came out today. It is a very attractive book, but has some typographical errors. In fact the big initial letter of the first word of the first sentence is wrong. If the publisher had done some good editing instead of trying to rewrite it, it would have been better.
October 21, 1949
Hard rain last night. My MS came back from Arthur H. Clarke. Good – would like to publish but costs too high – perhaps would consider it later if costs come down. Mother and I went out with the Hammond sisters to see the house decorations for Homecoming. Very clever.
October 22, 1949
Had dinner with Dr. H. E. Thompson of original A. & M. faculty. Dr. Chapman invited several of us. Saw the Homecoming floats from a ringside seat on Mrs. Gordon’s porch. Some very beautiful, some very clever. Fine crisp day for game – everyone in holiday mood. And then K.U. defeated Aggies 55:14. People came away in droves before it ended.
October 23, 1949
Started raining before we got up – rained off and on all day. I went to church – Mother didn’t because of rain. Church packed in spite do weather. Very fine sermon. I loafed all afternoon. Feel relaxed and rested. Was pretty tired at end of week.
October 24, 1949
Rained all day. This is a lovely fall with rains coming just right.
October 25, 1949
Mother got a permanent. Cost $7.50. Bright nice day.
October 26, 1949
I spoke to history fraternity. I forget the Greek letters – on my last summer’s work. It was at the home of Dr. Griffin. It seemed to go off rather well.
October 27, 1949
Nothing much happened.
October 28, 1949
Went to Shaw chorale concert. It was very fine. Mother did not go. I went with Mrs. Williamson. We are having beautiful weather every day.
October 29, 1949
Yesterday finished my report to the Indian Rights Association all but copying. Today I started copying but had rather bad luck getting started.
October 30, 1949
Surprised us by raining. Looks like cold weather in the offing. We put the oleanders in Mrs. Gordon’s basement. I went to church – heard fine sermon. Mr. & Mrs. Ola Rogers of Cleveland called to talk over historic sites.
October 31, 1949
Slight frost showing on the roofs. Bright, beautiful day. The Library Staff Organization (bless them!) is sending out invitations to a dinner celebrating my book.
November 1, 1949
I am reading the new book aloud to my mother. I think all the sparkle was taken out by various changes and some indefensible editing.
November 2, 1949
Whitish frost, not killing, this morning.
November 3, 1949
Marilyn Hill started working for me today. She is bright as a dollar, quick, deft, eager, a jewel of a girl.
November 4, 1949
Everything is stirring with expectancy over the new book. Everyone entering into the most generous excitement.
November 5, 1949
Wrote to Savoie & told him I felt the book was damaged by changes. My book is released today. Very fine display in Mr. Hinkel’s window. I had the satisfaction of giving away my free copies and some I bought.
November 6, 1949
Bright beautiful day like all our weather this fall. I went to early morning church service. Very fine review of my book by Edith Copeland in Oklahoman, one by Elizabeth Thomas in Stillwater paper.
November 7, 1949
Went over and gave Pres. Bennett a copy of my book. Had a very nice visit with him. He has a powerful – a Churchillian – intellect.
November 8, 1949
Well tomorrow is the great day. Katherine Metcalf and Montye Keeter [?] are coming from Amarillo. Got telegram this morning.
November 9, 1949
Katherine & Montye came – also Jessie Douglas. I was going to let one of them sleep on the Davenport, but Alice Carlson took Jessie. The dinner was perfect. I have never been as happy over anything. Dr. Bennett called off a trip to Tennessee to be there. Mother was in fine trim & everyone was nice to her. Alice & Jessie were here all the time till we had to go to bed – then they left. I am very grateful to the Amarillo girls. Their drive was 800 miles. The weather was so perfect we went to the dinner without coats.
November 10, 1949
The Amarillo girls left at ten this morning. I think they enjoyed the whole thing. Everybody was cordial to them and they were given big white chrysanthemums as special recognition.
November 11, 1949
The Library Staff (bless them!) is still rejoicing because everything went off so well at the dinner. It was one of those really perfect gatherings where everything was exactly right.
November 12, 1949
I worked on my report to the Indian Rights Assn. but I am a little tired today – just caught up with myself over Wednesday’s celebration. I guess. Cloudy and threatening.
November 13, 1949
I went to the early church service. Then in afternoon went to college radio studio, and Mrs. Woodworth, John Melton, and I made plans for a radio broadcast on the anniversary of the Battle of Round Mountains. Lovely weather.
November 14, 1949
I got a permanent – cost $7.50 My friends at the library are still congratulating each other and me over the success of Wednesday’s dinner.
November 15, 1949
Mr. Woodworth, John Melton, and I met in the studio and made a recorded program. It will be used over WKY at the unearthly hour of 5:15 – over KSPI at 9:45 Sat. He played it back. I always think my voice sounds awful.
November 16, 1949
I went to the Allied Arts play “A Hasty Heart.” It was very good – light but moving.
November 17, 1949
I am getting some lovely letters from people who like my book.
November 18, 1949
Met young Mr. Agnew of the history faculty. He is fine. I surely like some of these men in the history department.
November 19, 1949
Listened to broadcasting of recording we made Tuesday. It was broadcast over WKY yesterday at 5:15, but I slept – then today on KSPI. My voice sounds very aged – which I am, only I don’t realize it. Adele Traver called up. We drove to Marshall – spent evening visiting Claudia.
November 20, 1949
I went to church at Marshall – Mother didn’t go. We found that the dist. Supt. Had driven the Hestwoods away & sent them to Hunter. Everybody heart-broken, including the Hestwoods. The new minister preached his first sermon today – fine young fellow named Wesley Kimball. He has a wife and three babies.
November 21, 1949
I got my report to the Indian Rights Association finished. I liked it very much when I finished writing it, but this evening I read it aloud to Mother and it sounded pretty dry.
November 22, 1949
I sent out my manuscript. It took most of the morning making a few changes and getting it ready to send. Thanksgiving holiday starts tomorrow – extra day on account of football victory Sat.
November 23, 1949
Pretty quiet day at the college. I worked as usual – (libraries don’t have vacations) but took time off this morning from writing and bought an electric heater for Mother’s feet – cost $7.95
November 24, 1949
No celebration for us except that in the afternoon we took a long drive east on 33, then north through Ripley, then back on 51. Cloudy day.
November 25, 1949
I didn’t work at the college. The day was so bright and beautiful I took Mother out to Lake Carl Blackwell. The trees are nearly bare.
November 26, 1949
(no entry)
November 27, 1949
Fine old Mr. Hastings and Miss Lois Hastings took dinner with us. We had a very nice visit. I went to church at nine o’clock. Mother didn’t go.
November 28, 1949
(no entry)
November 30, 1949
(no entry)
December 1, 1949
I spoke on my summer’s survey to Business & Professional Woman’s Club. Had a rather hard time because of noise in the place – Edgewood – by other diners. I feel I did very badly – too much of a struggle.
December 2, 1949
Mother and I took dinner and spent a very wonderful evening with the John Strattons and their fine little Tad. The Terry Martins also were guests – very charming and interesting people I am glad to know. Our stove exploded and singed Mother’s face and hair – could have been serious.
December 3, 1949
I wrote a sketch for the college to send around in its Xmas publication. Also wrote my annual Xmas letter. Mrs. George Pock came to see me on business. She is a very bright lively little person. I taught George when he was 9.
December 4, 1949
Mother and I went to the eleven o’clock service – people packed in all the seats and extra chairs filling every aisle. In the afternoon I went to a committee meeting (Eva Wright chairman) to plan a dinner for the Wesleyan Service Guild.
December 5, 1949
LeRoy Fischer and Agnew called this evening. They are going out on a personal evangelism team and called on us because we are Methodists. They are fine boys. I think a great deal of them. I am so glad we have them on our faculty.
December 6, 1949
Mrs. Wilson spent P.M. with Mother. Harold Leake called up and we had a nice long telephone visit. It was good to hear him. We have missed the Leakes sorely this year. He is living here, but of course spends all his spare time in Durant.
December 7, 1949
Grace Hammond visited with Mother while Ruth and I went to Phi Gamma Mu. It was an initiation and dinner. Mr. Low spoke – very fine – told about library. It has turned cold this evening.
December 8, 1949
Went to concert of Oklahoma Symphony Orchestra. It was very fine. It was cold today and a few flakes of snow fell. Mother was the guest of a church group at Mrs. Gordons.
December 9, 1949
Dreary wet day but little moisture fell. I got my Xmas letters, which Mr. Hinkel printed. It saves writing.
December 10, 1949
Dreary wet day, little water. Head ached all day but I did send out some of my Xmas letters. Jack and Anne called this evening. Nice kids.
December 11, 1949 (turned two pages)
Mr. Radiker (sp?) stopped in & talked fine young fellow. Hard wind blowing, clearing sky. Mother and I went to church at 11. In P.M. I went to Wesleyan Service Guild tea at Dr. Coles’ – then to an A.A.U.W. tea at the Berry home. Enjoyed both.
December 12, 1949
Miss Kathryn Lang & Mrs. Kezer came in this evening to get some books autographed and we had a nice visit. I surely like the Kezers. I sent Nelson MS to Zuni [sp?] Press in Dallas.
December 13, 1949
Pretty cold day, but clear and bright and warmed up by afternoon. Two nice little freshmen Vanette Marshall & Patricia Ellison came by for me to autograph a book for Miss Stout. We had a nice visit.
December 14, 1949 (turned 2 pp. – left blank here)
Very cold day. I spoke to a group of Langston students on research methods. Mother went along and we had luncheon with a faculty group. Very fine people except ignoramus President Harrison. This evening I was on a committee serving Wesleyan Service Guild.
December 15, 1949
I was very ill last night – stayed in bed most of forenoon. I was tired last evening from helping dinner – then ate too well, especially plum pudding. I feel O.K. this evening.
December 16, 1949 (right page at last)
This evening I went to a birthday party Pres. Bennett (celebrated two days late.) Very fine. Senator Kerr spoke – good speech. Senator Thomas made some ignorant remarks.
December 17, 1949
Rained a little, cloudy all day; I sent out Christmas letters. Ida Arrington’s Xmas box came today – candy, a cake, and nut meats (Bless her!)
December 18, 1949
I went to church at 11 – Mother didn’t go. Cloudy but cleared off – beautifully. In P.M. we went to college symphonic choir. They sang Bach which leaves me cold. Last year it was the “Messiah.” We went for drive afterwards. This evening I put up some Xmas greens.
December 19, 1949
Pretty day. Nothing in particular happened except Xmas in the air. Oh yes, my beloved Loretta Holloway came in and talked to me.
December 20, 1949
Nothing in particular happened. I am getting most of my Xmas letters finished and mailed.
December 21, 1949
Last night it rained the first real rain for many weeks. Then it sleeted. The trees are beautiful with gleaming ice, but travel is safe because the ground was warm enough to melt it. But the day is cold.
December 22, 1949
Bright and cold. The campus is a fairyland with the sleeted trees sparkling in the sunshine against a blue, blue sky. This is the last day of school before vacation. The youngsters will have ideal weather for their drive home.
December 23, 1949
It is getting warmer today – sun bright, ground well soaked with the rain. This is a very quiet town. A very few students use the library but not many. Miss Shoemaker brought me a beautiful poinsetta [sic].
December 24, 1949
I cleaned the house, made cookies, etc. We went over and saw the Hammonds’ beautiful tree. I got the last of my cards and letters out.
December 25, 1949
I went to church at 9. Then we listened to music till 2, when we went to take dinner with Elizabeth Thomas & Mrs. Geel. Mrs. Williamson went, too. We had a very nice time. Came home after five. It is a very nasty day.
December 26, 1949
We drove to Enid. It was bright but very cold. The heater made it comfortable. From Perry on there were traces of snow – sleet around Covington. At Enid the ground was white. We are at the Percy Porters enjoying it. This evening Ruth Scott & Charlotte Kretch called.
December 27, 1949
Esther Porter asked in some of my old friends for tea – Beulah Smith, Ruth Scott, Lestie Mellick, Helen Stuart. Charlotte couldn’t come – so glad I had the visit with her last night.
December 28, 1949
I took Mother to Dr. Shryock and he used the Xray on a rough place on her cheek that might have grown into something worse. Then she has been troubled by a beating in her ear so we asked Dr. Duffy. He said it was a “mold” or “a moldy growth” whatever that is. Gave us drops and said to see him in two months. Warmer.
December 29, 1949
We drove to Marshall, took dinner with Mrs. Hawkins, picked up some things in the house, and came back to Stillwater. Roads very rough and crooked – had not been dragged since the rain a week and a half ago.
December 30, 1949
I worked at the library this afternoon. Then went for a small tea at Mrs. Cash’s She is fine. Also the Garretts were there. And I met Mrs. Rena Brittain, and another lady whose name I can’t remember. Had a fine time. Dark day.
December 31, 1949
I finished a lot of Xmas mail, etc. It started raining early yesterday evening, rained much of the night, and some today. Warm.