January 1 - December 31, 1950
(Box 5/Folder 4)
January 1, 1950
Warm, cloudy day, rained this evening. I went to church also S.S. for first time this winter (starting New Year right) J.C. Lytton and his mother called. He is making real progress at the Univ. of Chicago. Also Mr. Albright called to get a book autographed. Then I took tea at the Ourslers – Anna’s brother there from Kansas.
January 2, 1950
Rained last night – wasn’t cloudy today. Grace DeMotte called. This is a holiday at the library and everywhere. I finished tying the last of the comforters I covered & pinned last August.
January 3, 1950
Rained last night and early morning, then changed to sleet and before noon to snow. The ground is white, but it is not intensely cold.
January 4, 1950
Clear and cold. It reached 15° in Enid, 17° in O.C. at the “warmest” part of the day. It didn’t thaw at all here, even in sheltered places. Travel is dangerous, but better than last winter.
January 5, 1950
Another cold day with no thawing. Mrs. Byerly came and talked with me about a paper she is writing for a Quaker magazine. The Byerlys are missionaries at McCord. I like her.
January 6, 1950
Beautiful bright day, not cold. It melted a little, but not much. Probably reduced the driving hazard but increased the walking hazard.
January 7, 1950
More beautiful weather and melting sleet. I went and talked with Mabel Caldwell (fine person!) about the plans we both have to write a history of A.&M. Decided our plans were not in conflict.
January 8, 1950
Bright nice day – more thawing. I went to church and S.S. this morning and that was all.
January 9, 1950
Warm day, slightly cloudy, more slop underfoot. (Dr. Chapman asked me to be on his exam committee.) I have read a very fine master’s thesis by young Amos Maxwell.
It is on the Sequoyah convention.
January 10, 1950
Had interesting interview with Maxwell over his thesis. Got sweet but pitiable letter from Ferrol Butts that her dear old father is ill. We plan to go to see them tomorrow. Joe Rawlins spent the evening with us – and how we enjoyed it! He is taking a week’s intensive work at the college.
January 11, 1950
We drove over to Hayward to see Mr. & Mrs. Ellis. Ferrol was there. They were so glad to see us we were very thankful we went. Old friends are dear. It rained all the way back but we gad the heater, and so it was comfortable. The rain did not freeze.
January 12, 1950
Dark, rainy day – warm. I spoke to at the initiation dinner of Phi Delta Kappa. Met fine young Ramseyer boy who graduated from Marshall H.S. in 1943.
January 13, 1950
Warm day but not raining. The Mr. and Mrs. Melton of O.C. called – fine people, very alert. He is John H. Melton’s brother, a member of the legislature.
January 14, 19[50]
Muriel Wright came up from the city and we went over to the A.&M. studio and planned a recording to broadcast a brief sample of Maxwell’s exam. It will be a public exam tomorrow.
January 15, 1950
I took Miss Wright to the 9:00 o’clock church service. Then we made our recording at the studio. The real exam this P.M. was a wonderful academic experience. Old Central auditorium was packed. Maxwell covered himself with glory. Old Bill Murray was there as a voice from the historical past.
January 16, 1950
Nice bright day. I started writing a paper for Miss. Valley Hist. Assn. It meets at O.C. in April.
January 17, 1950
[No entry]
January 18, 1950
It snowed most of the day, but not hard. The ground was white by evening.
January 19, 1950
The snow is all gone. Nice day.
January 20, 1950
Had a “coffee” in the order room for Evelyn Benton and 2 other girls who are leaving library group. Evelyn is expecting the stork. The other two have husbands graduating.
January 21, 1950
I spoke to Miss Hammond’s library science class this morning. Was shocked to learn that Grace De Motte’s mother died very suddenly Thursday.
January 22, 1950
Foggy misty day. I went to church this morning, to Mrs. De Motte’s funeral in the afternoon.
January 23, 1950
Warm foggy day. This is the first day of finals.
January 24, 1950
Hot day. Established some sort of record for this time of year. But a cold wave is coming they say.
January 25, 1950
Cold this morning and kept getting colder.
January 26, 1950
Very cold day. I attended an A.A.U.W. luncheon at Willard Hall. A man spoke on world federation. Probably can’t be done, but I’d like to see it tried.
January 27, 1950
This was commencement – about 700 got degrees. I didn’t attend because my rented cap & gown failed to arrive. Bright day. Cold this morning, but warmed up.
January 28, 1950
Nothing in particular happened. I am about done copying a MS Mr. Oliver Nelson sent me a couple of weeks ago. Nice bright day.
January 29, 1950
Pretty cold day, sunshine, then cold clouds. I went to church & S.S. Spent afternoon at home. “reading” Edith Wilson’s Memoirs for my mother on her record player.
January 30, 1950
Another cold day, dark and cloudy – sleeting over part of the state. The students are enrolling. Class work starts tomorrow. I sent my Indian report to the OU Press.
January 31, 1950
Another cold day. Classes start tomorrow. Enrolling today. Loretta Holloway came and talked with me.
February 1, 1950
Bright, beautiful day, but crisp this morning.
February 2, 1950
Bright beautiful day, I got my teeth cleaned.
February 3, 1950
Another beautiful day. For some reason I feel very tired this evening.
February 4, 1950
Bright forenoon, but clouded up after dinner. Mother and I took a drive this P.M. I got a tailor to make a skirt to so I can wear a suit lost when the hemline dropped. Cost $19.
February 5, 1950
Warm cloudy day. I went to church & S. S. this morning. Mother & I called on the Garretts this P.M.
February 6, 1950
Nothing in particular happened. I got pretty tired – have been getting more tired for weeks.
February 7, 1950
Another warm day. I was very tired. This evening I went to a board meeting and then a general meeting of the A.A.U.W.
February 8, 1950
Library staff meeting this P.M. – very interesting report on A.L.A. meeting in Chicago. I am going to bed at 8 – tempted to make it 6.
February 9, 1950
Harold Leake took supper and spent evening with us. We enjoyed his visit very much. We miss the Leakes. Dorothy is in Durant and Harold spends all week ends there.
February 10, 1950
Beautiful spring day. In fact we are having lovely weather all the time.
February 11, 1950
Clouds and warm rain all day. I had planned to take a trip to Muskogee with Dr. Belcher & his mother & sister tomorrow but this will spoil it. The Hammonds spent evening with us.
February 12, 1950
Rained off and on. I went to S.S. & church. My car wouldn’t start on the return trip but a man pushed me. That sick battery is about dead.
February 13, 1950
It turned pretty cold today. Nothing in particular happened.
February 14, 1950
Another cold day, but it cleared off and the sun shone this afternoon. Jack and Anne Finley called. Anne has her troubles with the immigration officials straightened out.
February 15, 1950
The weather is warming up. We heard over the radio that Ted Merrill’s hardware at Marshall burned – total loss. We are very sorry about it. Harold Leake called.
February 16, 1950
The car wouldn’t start so Mother and I drove over to Marshall and got a new battery by paying $6 ($1 a month). It was a lovely warm day. We stopped a while with Mrs. Hawkins. I got my old suit coat to wear with the new skirt.
February 17, 1950
I had a nice visit on the street with Ray Beeby. Warm windy day. I wore my new-old suit, the old jacket, new longer skirt. I had to stop wearing it two years ago when the skirts lengthened. The match is not perfect but it really looks pretty well.
February 18, 1950
I bought me some shoes for school – brown walking shoes, cost $9.95.
February 19, 1950
Bright, beautiful day. I went to church & S.S. Grace Goodman came on the 12 bus and stayed till six. It was good to have her. She looks and seems well.
February 20, 1950
I went to Guthrie to get homestead exemption. Stopped at Masonic Home to see my dear old teacher, Mrs. Reed, but missed her. Grace told me yesterday she was there. I had been informed she died years ago.
February 21, 1950
It is quite cold today. Mother and I are reading Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales on the talking book. Strange to say, I had never read them.
February 22, 1950
Crisp this morning, warming up this P.M. Grace De Motte and Elsie Shoemaker called to get me to autograph some books.
February 23, 1950
The Hammond sisters invited mother and me and Harold Leake over to dinner. We had a wonderful visit, but feel a little sad about it for Harold is leaving March 1. He has four months leave, but I do not expect him back. It is hard for him and Dorothy to be separated. I went to O.C. and talked with Bishop Smith about the religious needs of the Indians.
February 24, 1950
I went and talked to President Bennett this morning and gave him a mimeographed copy of my report to the Indian Rights Association. He is certainly nice to me. I always hesitate to take his time but he is always most gracious.
February 25, 1950
Drove to Enid & saw Dr. Duffy. Good report – Mothers’ ear O.K. Visited with Ralph Cooper and his lovely Luciene, and her baby Pamela – also with Esther Porter. Then came on to Marshall. Warm day – wheat lovely, grass showing green.
February 26, 1950
We went to church at home – then to a lovely dinner at the Lions’ Den. We certainly enjoyed it. Then we called on a group meeting at Mrs. Hawkins. They had dinner there for Mrs. Garfield, who is going to the City to live with Minnie. Came back in the P.M. & I went to hear Judge
Florence Allen who is here for Religious Emphasis Week.
February 27, 1950
Cloudy day with thunder showers forming. I made out my income tax report. The college is in the midst of religious emphasis week.
February 28, 1950
I am trying to divide my report to the Indian Rights Assn. into sections for publication. It is hard work. We had nice spring showers last night, today is bright and crisp. I heard Mrs. Don Schooler speak to the A.A.U.W. Very good talk.
March 1, 1950
I heard a lecture to the faculty on the problem of minority groups (negroes, to be frank) in education by a negro, Dr. Ira de A. Reid. Very clever, rather, flippant, I thought. In the evening I heard Dr. Dan Poling. Nothing profound, but his account of his son’s death was very moving.
March 2, 1950
It started snowing this P.M. – soft light snow. It is an inch or more deep – very pretty.
March 3, 1950
The snow was on the ground this morning, but it soon melted. Bright beautiful day. I am cutting my Indian Rights Report into chapters and making other revisions getting it ready for publication.
March 4, 1950
I am working on some revision of my report on last summer’s survey. Cloudy all forenoon, sunny this P.M. Warm. We are having a wonderful spring.
March 5, 1950
I went to church & S.S. this morning. It was laymen’s day & Dr. “Hog” Thompson filled the pulpit. He is fine. Grace & Ruth Hammond took dinner with us & stayed during the P.M. Alice Carlson came over after dinner. She & Ruth got together at “my dinner” & developed a liking for each other.
March 6, 1950
While I was working on the revision of my MS I got a letter from the Indian Rights Assn. saying they will print the report but they decided to have me cut it down to 1/3 its length. This doesn’t please me at all. Bad, windy day.
March 7, 1950
I sent my revised MS to the Ind. Rights people and sent a letter telling them I think it will be a serious mistake to cut it down. I hope I can persuade them. They are good people but confused about the publication job. This is a disagreeable windy, dusty day.
March 8, 1950
The Library Staff Assn. had a dinner meeting. Haskell Pruitt, an ignorant old blow was supposed to show some photographs he had made in Mexico, but his daughter, Mrs. Lee showed them. She is a photographer, too. She is not very literate but charming and the pictures were lovely.
March 9, 1950
I have a new girl working for me this week. Her name is Kathryn Brown, and she is fine. A junior from Duncan.
March 10, 1950
I am writing on assignment a Will Rogers for a school reader. I took the story of a Cherokee boy who came under Will Rogers’ influence and thereby showed good sportsmanship at a calf
scramble.
March 11, 1950
Thunder shower last night. I finished writing (and got off on the mail) my story about Will Rogers for the Silver Burdett readers. I am a little doubtful about it. It is a little out of my experience writing for children.
March 12, 1950
It snowed a little this morning and was very cloudy and cold all day. I went to S.S. & church – spent the P.M. at home.
March 13, 1950
Pretty cold this morning. Some fruit jars of water on the porch were frozen solid and bulged. Sun came out & it warmed up this P.M.
March 14, 1950
Warm bright day.
March 15, 1950
Rained last night.
March 16, 1950
I had planned to go to O.C. to a library meeting – a bunch of us were going – but it was called off.
March 17, 1950
I took time off to go home (mother went along) and pick up some Indian decorations etc. for Woman’s Club meeting on March 28. It was a very disagreeable hot windy day. The wheat is fine.
March 18, 1950
I got myself a lovely pink blouse – paid $8.95, which sets a record for me. Bad windy day – turning cold this evening. I went to showing of “The Seventh Veil [Seal?]” academy award movie. It was fairly good.
March 19, 1950
Pretty cold day with high wind blowing. Glimpses of bright blue sky, but mostly cloudy. I went to church this morning – home the rest of the day.
March 20, 1950
We have struck a little snag in publication of my Indian Rights report by A.&M. – not enough presses and too much of a backlog of work.
March 21, 1950
Mother got a permanent. Dr. Maria Chavez, Assistant Librarian of the National University of Mexico, spoke to the A.A.U.W. She is a very attractive woman, but in a large room I found it hard to understand her. I went with Ruth Hammond and Grace visited with Mother.
March 22, 1950
Warm day. The Library staff had a luncheon at which Dr. Chavez spoke. She talked frankly of her difficulties (too many Mexicans like the directors of the Okla. Hist. Soc.) I sat by her and liked her very much at the close Mr. Low gave her a copy of Footloose – quite a surprise to me as well as her. We looked at the little brick house. I certainly want to buy it.
March 23, 1950
Warm day. Mr. Melton showed me an attractive little house, but it is too far from the site of the projected library building. We feel sure the little brick will be beyond our reach but we are going to make an offer for it.
March 24, 1950
Helped Dr. Chapman in a recording of the a typical Payne County Historical Society meeting. Had a nice visit with Amos Maxwell. He came to show me a letter from Bill Murray.
March 25, 1950
Hot day. We are having a very late spring. I am working in some new material into my Nelson MS. He sent it this winter.
March 26, 1950
Very bad wind and dust. It seems the Great Plains is overlapping once more. I went to church, not S.S. Mrs. Williamson called. The owner put $15,000 on the little brick house – $6,000 more than I think its worth.
March 27, 1950
I am going to Marshall tomorrow to speak to the Woman’s Club about my trip last summer. I am looking forward to the visit with the house folks.
March 28, 1950
Everything was lovely. The women had planned so well – picturesque decorations, lovely refreshments, and a fine, happy spirit of the whole thing. My talk was easy and pleasant (for me). We took supper with the August Burchardts. Mrs. Hawkins was invited also.
March 29, 1950
Got up this morning with a headache. Gradually worked up a little energy and got started back.
Reached here in time to fix myself a little soup and go to work in P.M. I feel rather puny.
March 30, 1950
Nothing happened.
March 31, 1950
Nothing happened.
April 1, 1950
Today is the band festival at Marshall. I thought of going home but it threatened rain a little in the morning. But it turned out to be an ideal day.
April 2, 1950
I went to church & S.S. this morning. We planned to hear the Messiah this evening. But this P.M. we had far the worst hail storm I ever saw. Hail larger than turkey eggs – almost as large as my fist. Fortunately there was no wind, even no lightning. The ground was covered with a sheet of ice.
April 3, 1950
Neglected to make entry. It is easy to spot the cars that were out in the hail. They are dented all over as though struck with a baseball bat. Windshields are broken. Everywhere are stories of the hail. An official.
April 4, 1950
Neglected to make entry measurement is 9 inches in diameter circumference – not one big stone – they were almost uniform in size. Nearly every roof is pulverized – even the tiles on the Meth. Church are shattered. Damage runs into millions. But it covered only part of Stillwater – worst around the college.
April 5, 1950
Went by bus to Muskogee and got some historical maps Dr. Foreman is letting us copy. Had a wonderful visit with those two dear people, who are about the same as last summer. Met Frances Rosser Brown at their home.
April 6, 1950
Feelin’ puny today. Too much dissipation yesterday. I had Easter vacation starts tomorrow. I had planned to work but Mr. Low told me to take time off.
April 7, 1950
Cleaned car thoroughly. I went down town and bought a set of attractive cheap dishes – just right for our little cottage – cost $7.95. Also Mother bo’t 2 pair shoes. Silver Burdett sent me $100 check for Will Rogers story – hence my splurge.
April 8, 1950
I sent to Wards for some silverware I have wanted a long time – more of the $100 check gone. Also I cleaned the house thoroughly. Washed up the new dishes. They are pretty.
April 9, 1950
Went to church & S.S. in morning. Had Elizabeth Thomas & Mrs. Geel to dinner (used new dishes). They stayed most of P.M. and we certainly enjoyed them. Went driving in evening with Miss Long.
April 10, 1950
Terribly windy day – dust in air, which came from Kansas, says radio. I am still vacationing. Will start work tomorrow.
April 11, 1950
The air is full of hammering, and all over town men are putting on roofs. Of course it will take many weeks to finish – meanwhile
April 12, 1950
many houses are at the mercy of the elements. A large share of them leak badly. And the body shops have work piled up for more than three months. I had a little adjustment I wanted done on my hood, & they told me it would be months before they would be done with the hail damage.
April 13, 1950
Men started roofing the Gordons’ big house today. It had wood shingles, which were badly crushed. Unlike most of the houses, it did not leak.
April 14, 1950
They started roofing our house today. It had a composition roofing which was terribly battered. It did not leak, however. Just across the alley the house leaked so badly men got up and stretched a tarpaulin over it.
April 15, 1950
They finished roofing the garage apt. today. That makes all three of our houses here safe. But most of the houses in Stillwater still are unrepaired and it looks like rain tonight. Water poured into some of them in the rain that went with the hail.
April 16, 1950
Rained most of the day but not much water. I went to church in the morning, to Payne Co. Hist. Soc. In the P.M.
April 17, 1950
April 18 Nice rain this evening. I have picked up some shattered pieces of the tile roofs to keep as a souvenir of the hail.
April 18, 1950
April 17 The Library Staff Assn. had a meeting. I always enjoy these.
April 19, 1950
The silver came. It was a really good rain that fell last night. J.C. Lytton came in and talked to me. He is worrying too much about his doctorial exams at Uni. of Chicago.
April 20, 1950
Am in City at Mo. Valley Hist. Assn. meeting. Had lovely ride down with Dr. & Mrs. Lewis, Dr. Chapman & Dr. Reynolds. Am at Biltmore. There have been two sessions and a dinner. Fine papers read. At dinner Dr. Rister read his presidential address. Meeting lots of people.
April 21, 1950
More meetings. I am having wonderful time. Walter Prescott Webb read fantastic paper at dinner meeting. I had Dorothy Holcomb to lunch. Wonderful to see her. Met fine young Dr. Elizabeth Taylor from e.g.a.
April 22, 1950
I read my paper this morning. It dealt with my survey of 5 Tribes. It went over O.K. Had lunch with Dorothy. Bot [sic] fine Indian painting of Carl Sweezy. Came home with the Chapmans. Mother O.K. Kathryn Brown stayed with me.
April 23, 1950
Went to church & S.S. this morning. Stayed in the rest of the day. Pretty tired. Found my pic in the paper this morning as one of six elected to Okla. Hall of Fame. Jim Thorpe, some business men, dean of O.U. school of medicine.
April 24, 1950
Good to get back to work. Five members here for garden meet & tour of campus. They had coffee with us before they left. We enjoyed them very much. Mrs. Stuerke, Mrs. Orr, Winnie Branen, Helen Blaney, Katherine Burchardt. Seemed like old times.
April 25, 1950
I got a permanent – $7.50. (It was about time.) The Hammonds came over and spent the evening. We had a fine visit. I don’t know how we ever got along before we knew them.
April 26, 1950
Talked to Mr. Shades at Marshall – learned lovely little Mrs. De Witt is dead. What will become of her darling children?
April 27, 1950
Max Holloway came in to see us. I love this fine handsome lad. He came to Stillwater to see about enrolling here next year. Mother has been ill most of the day.
April 28, 1950
Mother slept fine last night and woke up feeling better than usual. We are getting a nice rain (no hail I hope).
April 29, 1950
The rain last night was a false hope. It sprinkled with much noise and then quit. It is terribly dry, but threatens rain all the time.
April 30, 1950
I went to church and S.S. this morning. In evening Mother and I went to open house at Grace Peebles’. She has just bought it and is very happy about it. She has another young woman with her.
May 1, 1950
Continue this week – I neglected any entries – we got word from Henry Krause that the green bugs ate all our wheat so there will be no harvest. We had
May 2, 1950
known all along that Blaine County was the worst hit, but we had hoped to have enough for taxes anyhow.
May 3, 1950
[No entry]
May 4, 1950
Mother defrosted the refrigerater [sic] and apparently got too tired. Anyhow she got very dizzy and has been ill all day. Her head aches tonight but the dizziness has passed. I gave her an aspirin and tucked her in.
May 5, 1950
Mother slept fine and feels better today than she usually does.
May 6, 1950
Drove home this morning – spent the afternoon cleaning one of the closets. Found lovely Mrs. Bridal died and was buried this week – also good old Mr. Hearn and Mrs. States. The peonies are blooming but it is terribly dry and so they are rather small. Wheat is short but most fields can make a crop.
May 7, 1950
Missed church – too tired to go after we got here. All clouded over this morning so we left as soon as possible. It rained all the way over – slow drizzle off and on – but we got to the pavement before the roads got very slick. Reached here about 8:30. We picked an armful of lovely peonies – gave some to Mrs. Williamson, the Hammonds, Mrs. Gordon and Mrs. Oursler.
May 8, 1950
We had a hard shower about midnight – lightning bad – we hear it twisted a littles w. and n.e. of town, but little damage. And we certainly needed the rain – hope the Marshalls wheat and peonies got some. We are certainly enjoying our bouquet – great, lovely things. They had just started blooming and we picked all that were out.
May 9, 1950
We can hardly work for looking at those glorious peonies. It threatened rain all day but hasn’t done it yet. A shower is coming up now.
May 10, 1950
Rained all last night, all day today, and still raining. Schussnig of Austria spoke here 2x today – a very fine intelligent person. I heard Mrs. Oursler is very ill.
May 11, 1950
Cloudy today but not raining. Our peonies are still glorious. I went shopping and got a present for dear Ollie Louise.
May 12, 1950
Bright beautiful weather this forenoon – increasingly cloudy afternoon. We wanted to go home tomorrow to clean another closet, get more peonies and attend baccalaureate.
[Loose Insert: Roses are red and violets are blue sugar is sweet and so are you. Anne Whittenburg]
May 13, 1950
Too threatening to risk the dirt roads. The sun shone brightly but there were big clouds that could have collected any time. Mrs. Oursler is very sick.
May 14, 1950
The Strattons and their fine sons took dinner with us. Then in the evening we had a very pleasant surprise visit from Harold Leake. He brought family news from Durant. I went to church & S.S. No rain after all.
May 15, 1950
Met a Mrs. Watson from Wetumka who is greatly interested in Creek customs (but not very bright.) The last peonies were shattered this morning.
May 16, 1950
It still hasn’t rained. I am sorry we didn’t drive home yesterday Saturday.
May 17, 1950
Hot day threatening more rain. Mother and I took a drive. Went west on new hard surfaced 51.
May 18, 1950
[No entry]
May 19, 1950
[No entry]
May 20, 1950
Rained last night. Cleared off this afternoon. Fine old Mrs. Oursler died Thursday – she was ninety, but it was a cancer that killed her. She certainly had a devoted family.
May 21, 1950
Went to church & S.S. Stayed home all afternoon because we had ad in paper to sublet cottage. Only one nibble.
May 22, 1950
Several people came to see house. We rented it to a nice young man named ‘freeney. He and his wife are both graduate students.
May 23, 1950
[No entry]
May 24, 1950
Worked all day at library so I can skip May 31. Mrs. Hobbs brought Miss Jennie Cole a very interesting pioneer of Hennessey, to see me.
May 25, 1950
Hot day. Nothing in particular happened.
May 26, 1950
Very Rain last night – very cold today. They say it will frost in west part of state. I finished my work in the library today. Nice boy brot [sic] back chair he had varnished. Cost $7.50 Name Don Treat
May 27, 1950
Worked at various things – packed a little. It cleared off this P.M. and is beautifully cool and fresh. I doubt that it really frosted anywhere last night.
May 28, 1950
Rained last night. Went to church – not S.S. Then Rain last night – very cold today. They say it will frost in to alumni luncheon at Murray – met Mr. Jarreff, only living member of first class (1896) – then to ground breaking for library (praise be!) then to president’s reception for seniors. Had fine time but tired so skipped baccalaureate this evening.
May 29, 1950
Commencement – huge class, mostly veterans. Very poor address by Judge Vaught Mrs. Rousch and Roy called. I worked hard at packing. Cool day, threatening rain. Poor Mrs. Kear had car trouble & didn’t get here in time to see Roy graduate.
May 30, 1950
Packed all forenoon. Shortly after one Mr. Moore came to move us. We drove by way of Perry to miss road work on 51, but ran into bad road work & blinding dust on 74. Everyone drove with lights. I unpacked a little, but was pretty tired from the hard trip & didn’t do much – I went to the cemetery with roses & white iris.
May 31, 1950
Had coal fire all forenoon. Felt a little languid so didn’t go into housework too energetically I unpacked the biggest boxes. I cleaned the bathroom. It is nice to have a least a clean place to wash.
June 1, 1950
Unpacked some more. Cleaned Mother’s bedroom and put up curtains. It seems nice to have one room clean. So cold we used coal stove. Hard shower this evening – a few hail.
June 2, 1950
Rained this evening – still raining. Had coal fire this morning; then took stove down. Finished unpacking. Cleaned living room and put up curtains. I have never seen the house so dirty before – the result of our dry dusty spring.
June 3, 1950
Cool day – we used electric stove. Cleaned dining room and kitchen – only my room left – also worked on yard. Mrs. Vculek and Grace Branen called (just after we I finished cleaning the rooms.) We enjoyed their visits very much. Rained in night, but bright today.
June 4, 1950
I went to S.S. and church – Mother didn’t feel quite up to it. Nice crowd out. Mr. Kimball is starting first Sunday of conference year. Cold day, but we managed with electric stove. Went for drive in p.m. Country lovely.
June 5, 1950
I spent morning weeding the flower garden – purple clematis, striped yucca, and a clump of pinks are blooming. In P.M. we went to a little Bible study group at Mrs. Duels, Ambie Congdon spent evening here. Another cold day.
June 6, 1950
I cleaned the other bedroom closet. Ralph Cooper came. We had a nice visit. He stayed to dinner. The weather is still cold – very lovely. A very little wheat is being combined.
June 7, 1950
Woke up sick – sick all day. Apparently “Virus X” or “intestinal flu.” Mean windy, dusty day – got warm in afternoon.
June 8, 1950
O.K., but weak. I dusted and arranged all the books preparatory to cleaning my room. Hottish day.
June 9, 1950
Felt perfectly well. Cleaned my room, so all the house is clean now but some cupboards and drawers. Mrs. Baugh called; so nice to see her. Hot day. Trace of rain this evening. A good bit of wheat is coming in now.
June 10, 1950
Rain this afternoon – cool this evening. I didn’t do any special cleaning. I seem a little tired. I did dress a hen. The Hammonds are coming over tomorrow if it doesn’t rain, but I am sure it will.
June 11, 1950
It didn’t rain and the Hammonds did come. It was cool and beautiful. We went for a drive to show them the wheat. About half is combined already. The combines have been stopped by
yesterday’s rain. Some ground is already plowed. I went to S.S. – cut church. The Clems – bless
them! – called this evening.
June 12, 1950
The little Bible reading group met in our house today met in our house today. Mrs. Hawkins stayed and she and George took supper with us.
June 13, 1950
We drove up to Covington this morning to find out bus schedules to Durant – called on the Rogers family. Found Mr. Ellis is ill so in afternoon we drove up again to Hayward to see him. He looks dreadful – certainly can’t live long.
June 14, 1950
We went to WSCS meeting at church – Mrs. Congdon leader, very fine lesson.
June 15, 1950
The Welcome school is having a reunion. I wish I could go – would do it except for Mr. Ellis’s illness. Some years ago he asked me to conduct his funeral.
June 16, 1950
Mrs. Stuerke called and bro’t us some string beans and new potatoes – good neighbor! Made some cookies – will take some to Dorothy Leake when I go to Durant.
June 17, 1950
Drove up to Hayward to see Mr. Ellis. He is delirious – we did not disturb him, but washed the dishes. Dear Mrs. C. and Ferrol seemed glad we came. Gov. Johnston and wife spent all day with visited him yesterday – they talked of Const. Conv., etc. and he got too tired. Perhaps his brain cells are breaking up anyhow.
June 18, 1950
I drove to Guthrie – left car there and rode to Durant with Harold Leake (He was up here on business trip.) Wonderful drive. Saw Tishomingo – Chick. capitol & granite boulders on Pennington Creek. Reached Leake home (and dear Dorothy) at three. Found telephone message that Mr. Ellis died this morning. Will return immediately after my lecture Tuesday.
June 19, 1950
Met Robert Hillyer – very pleasant New Englander (d. Yankee). Then heard him read some of his poetry. Had luncheon, rested at the college. Met Mrs. Gregory (Margaret Doolittle of Guthrie). Harold Leake interviewed Hillyer and me over the radio at four – very good broadcast because of Harold’s smooth technique. We all went to a reception in evening.
June 20, 1950
Gave my lecture at ten – Harold took me to bus station and I started home by way of Atoka, Ada & O.C. Ran into two-inch rain at O.C. – one inch at Guthrie. Picked up my car at Guthrie. When I got to dirt road at Crescent found it dry, but ran into very bad mud 4½ mi. from home. Got stuck once but pulled weeds & got out. Reached home at nine, very tired.
June 21, 1950
Mother and I Drove to Hayward this morning – saw Mr. Kay, the Ellis family’s pastor – planned service. He officiated, conducted worship, etc. Royal Ellis gave incidents of his father’s life. Then I spoke – very inadequately, but it pleased the family – they felt I had said what he would have wanted said. How fine the grandchildren and great grandchildren are! And how tender Ferrol and his brothers are to dear Mrs. Ellis. Mother sat by Mrs. Ellis all the time – she needed her.
June 22, 1950
I was very tired – lay down and slept twice during the day, something I almost never do. But I am thankful that I was able to carry out the request Mr. Ellis made several years ago. Mrs. Baugh & Claudia called.
June 23, 1950
I woke up completely rested. Got my car washed, unpacked my suitcase, washed clothes I used on trip, wrote bread and butter letters. Today the Holloways are having their sale – will go to O.C.
June 24, 1950
Nothing much happened. I got out the water cooler & cleaned, and oiled it. Then Mother decided she’d rather have just the fan. Guess I’ll sell it.
June 25, 1950
Ominous news! North Korea declared war on South Korea, which means Russia has finally attacked the U.S. We may bluff them off – otherwise World War III has started. This is, I think, the most vulnerable place they could have chosen for their attack. I went to S.S. and church.
June 26, 1950
I went to the little Bible reading group. Hazel Lovell gave a very fine lesson. It was at Xn [Christian] church. Ominous events in Korea.
June 27, 1950
I cleaned cellar and did some work in coal house. I have just listened to UN action on Korea – firm action just might stop the Russians. On the other hand this may be World War III.
June 28, 1950
Hard rains last night and early this morning. Between rains, I picked up a chilled baby oriole that had fallen in a pool of water. Warmed him and set him all fluffy and dry in a tree. Also, helped a baby mocking bird to bed. We went to WSCS at Mrs. Barlow’s. Nice meeting.
June 29, 1950
Cool day. I took the opportunity to clean the house. Borrowed Mrs. Adams’ vacuum cleaner and cleaned the living room suite. It begins to look as though our firm stand in Korea plus UN backing may save the day, but the danger is not over yet.
June 30, 1950
We went to Enid & bo’t [sic] dresses & hats – Mother got a beautiful dress for $10.98 – just right for her. Mine cost $8.95 – very pretty. Hats $5 each. It was a cold day – warmed up in afternoon. The country is lovely. Much plowing done – soil in fine condition.
July 1, 1950
Nothing in particular happened. I invited the August Burchardts to take dinner with us tomorrow.
July 2, 1950
We both went to S.S. & church – good congregation – apparently no summer slump. Raymond Winburn a fine supt. Had fine visit with the Burchardts. They bro’t [sic] a guest from Crescent. Fine lady, but I forgot her name. Ralph came too.
July 3, 1950
Cool day. Ralph Cooper came and stayed to dinner. He has been watching the Ficken well, which came in as small producer recently. I went to the little Bible reading group. Fifteen women and two children. Fine service.
July 4, 1950
About ½ inches of nice rain last night. Cool day. This is primary election. We voted early thinking it might rain more. Eulene Gammon called. She looks lovely. They live in Wichita.
July 5, 1950
Delightful weather – cool, cloudy, showers here and there. This evening I went to a new Bible study group organized by Mr. Kimball. He made it very interesting.
July 6, 1950
Cool day. I started to cut down for myself a dress of Mother’s that was always too short for her. Sadie Goodnight called – showed some pics of the new Beckett baby. Pretty child.
July 7, 1950
Finished the dress. It looks fine on me. I wanted to take Mother to Enid to see the dr. but it looked too rainy. Lovely cool weather. We are planning to take trip to K. C. – start Monday. Wanted to go on Rocket but Rock Island tied by strike.
July 8, 1950
Made short trip to Hayward to see Mrs. Ellis. Hurried back because of threatening rain but little water fell. She is very sweet and cheerful but has not picked up much strength since she relaxed from the strain of constant attendance on her husband. Cold day.
July 9, 1950
Another cold day – threatened rain all day but little water fell. I went to S.S. & church, then, called on Mrs. Hawkins in P.M. Mother stayed in trying to keep well for trip tomorrow. Rock Island trains running – Pres. Truman took action on account of war.
July 10, 1950
Hard rain this morning. Roads too muddy to navigate, so postponed trip to K.C. Cold day. We have never had so many birds as we have this year-young orioles, robins, [?] birds, mockingbirds and thrashers all around us.
July 11, 1950
It looked so rainy we started early this morning. Stopped at Ralph’s – had nice visit & dinner. Left Enid 1:45 arrived K. C. 7 – cloudy but no rain. Had nice trip but Mother got pretty tired getting out of train shed. Having fine visit with Halsteds.
July 12, 1950
Sat around visiting. Nellie and the children came this evening and we watched the TV. Nellie looks wonderful. It is such a pleasure to see her so strong and vital. Cold day.
July 13, 1950
Cold day. Used furnace. Had a nice long drive with Burton – saw the Independence sights (Truman home, historic places, lovely old houses) then Westport Landing, Quality Hill, Long
Museum & nhtd. [national historic trail district] in K.C. In evening the whole Halsted family & inlaws – 16 people – came to celebrate Aunt Ida’s birthday. Fine party – buffet supper – watched television. Birthday was yesterday but celebrated today.
July 14, 1950
Had wonderful drive over K.C. – went thru soldiers’ memorial, drove thru Country Club Terrace, Loose park (roses) & best residence sections, had picnic lunch in Swope park. Got home at five, just in time for me, to take dinner at Nellie’s then go for a drive with her and Geo. Billings. Returned at seven and we all spent evening with the Haywards from Beattie. Very cold – 55° this morning – used furnace.
July 15, 1950
Mother had a bad night and I was up with her. She perked up but I was ill all day. Stayed around home till evening about 3 p.m., then drove out to Harrison farm (Dorine’s parents) – had supper there. Fine people. Dorine’s sister Wanda & husband and child came over. I started feeling better in evening – got home c. [circa] ten. Cold day
July 16, 1950
Mother had bad night and today her face droops – lip a little stiff, eyes want to go shut. I am frightened. We had planned to join whole family at Sunday dinner at Pearl’s but I decided it was not safe. Nellie’s family went over, so I hope Pearl was not too disappointed. Cold day.
July 17, 1950
Hard rain this morning-cold day. Mother feels much better but face still droops. We had planned to go to St. Joe this evening, but postponed it. I am worried. Nellie and Donnie and Mrs. Dehn came over this evening. Mrs. Dehn an attractive friendly woman. Cold day.
July 18, 1950
Cold day. Spent time very quietly. Mother rested and feeling much better. After work Burton brought us up here to St. Joe. Dear Aunt Lisetta is very sweet and wonderfully spry. Harry and Grace came over for a few minutes. The drive was very pleasant – got here just at dark. Emma here when we came.
July 19, 1950
Rained in night. Cold day. Had lovely visit with dear Aunt Lisetta. Found out what a coffee toper I am. Aunt Lisetta served sanka and I became violently ill. Grace (good scout!) came to the rescue with some instant coffee, wh with which I can dose myself secretly and privately.
July 20, 1950
Cold day – used furnace. Spent day quietly. Dinner and evening at Harry’s. Had fine visit with Harry and Grace.
July 21, 1950
Cold day – used furnace. Had nice quiet day with Aunt Lisetta. I took wonderful drive over St. Joseph’s boulevards, and parks with Grace. Mother tired again today.
July 22, 1950
Cold day – used furnace. Spent time quietly with Aunt Lisetta. Emma came over for afternoon and to stay over Sunday. Mrs. Littles called. Having nice visit with Emma.
July 23, 1950
Cold day – used furnace. I went to church with Grace. Emma here all day. Harry & Grace spent P.M. here. Burton was coming up for us – had car trouble & Geo. Billings came to the rescue. Pearl had planned supper for whole family. We finally got there about ten. Had nice party, but ready for bed at 12:30. Hard on mother but unavoidable.
July 24, 1950
Got up early and Burton & Dorine put us on train at 9. (Used taxi.) Evidence of wet weather on whole route. Ran into heavy rain at Wellington & Caldwell, but clear at Enid. Ralph met us at train. Drove home quickly to beat more rain. It did rain after we got here. Ready for bed at six.
July 25, 1950
Mother pretty limp today. It rained off and on all night and forenoon. People say it rained here every day last week. It was clear this afternoon. We learned it poor Roy Christian died while we were gone. He was such a fine man with a fine family. Had been ill hampered by recurring illness all his life.
July 26, 1950
Mother not entirely rested. It didn’t rain today but the weather is still cold – we use the electric stove to keep the house warm. I h The WSCS met today. I had the lesson and for once did a good job in presenting it. (So often I am not in good form mentally)
July 27, 1950
Another cold day but the sun shone this afternoon. Mother still not rested. Ralph Cooper took dinner with us. He is hunting a renter for the farm-also watching wild catting activity here.
July 28, 1950
Sprinkled most of day – still cold enough to use electric heater. Mrs. Duel and Dena Kay spent evening here. Mother perked up and felt fine. Perhaps she has needed a little livening up.
July 29, 1950
Mother felt pretty well. Mrs. Lyons called called Had ice cream & cake at the church in honor of the Merrells who are going to Ft. Worth. Had hard rain last night – harder at Enid. Enid flooded – Boggy Creek up in houses & now moving down Skeleton. Families & goods moved from Champlin’s pump station. Burchardts marooned – end of drive under water.
July 30, 1950
Rained more last night. Cold as usual. I went to S.S. and church. Mrs. Hawkins ill. I cooked dinner for Phyllis and Eddie who are visiting her; spent all afternoon with her; called Dr. Parker. Then I had to return to Mother and so Diphane Dishman brought in Lucile to spend the night.
July 31, 1950
First warmish day. I took Mother to Enid to Dr. Duffy. He found pus in kidneys. We got caught in torrential rain as soon as we left dr’s office – some hail. Sat in car, which leaked a little. Then drove to Porter’s to spend night. Mother apparently not seriously harmed. Missy, Bill Creighton, and Dennis all here, but they made room.
August 1, 1950
Rained all night and all forenoon. Cold and of course no heat for Mother. Came home on P.M. train. Put Mother to bed and thawed her out, and she slept and perked up this evening. Used electric heater. Left car in Enid. Found roads a quagmire all the way home. It seems to be clearing off – sun shone a little.
August 2, 1950
No rain today! Sky almost cloudless! Mother feeling the effects of her Enid experience. Mrs. Hawkins better. Talked with Wesley Kimball, who learned yesterday the 45th Division, of which he is a member, will be called out Sept. 1.
August 3, 1950
Another clear day! Mother is really ill – probably the effect of Mondays wetting. I went to Enid on the train & brot [sic] back my car. Dennis had applied top dressing so it won’t leak next time. Mr. Krauss came to see us. Mrs. Baugh called this afternoon.
August 4, 1950
Hard brief shower this morning. No rain the rest of the day. Not so cold as usual. I got a bushel of mixed size cucumbers from Mrs. Hall [Price $2.50]. Cut up 10 quarts of dill pickles. Mother feeling better.
August 5, 1950
Warmer day. Put up 7½ quarts of sweet pickles. Left out a pailful of medium sized cucumbers for bread-and-butter pickles. Claudia Ahrnsbrats & Clara Hamel will start to California tomorrow. I worked on tomorrow’s service – preacher gone.
August 6, 1950
Still cold – threatening rain all day. I went to S.S. & conducted the church service for Wesley. It went off rather well – I never know whether I shall do well or badly before an audience and there is nothing I can do about it. I took Mother for a short drive – she is still far from well. Pearl Burchardt and Mrs. Adams called. We had a fine visit.
August 7, 1950
It really got warm today. The sun shone part of the time. I put up 5½ qt. bread and butter pickles. I went to Bible reading group. Ralph called. Mother much better today.
August 8, 1950
Another warm day – no rain. Ralph hauled off several boxes of tin cans I have been accumulating for years. Because Marshall has no dump ground. Good work! I taught the ministers Bible lesson this evening. Mother still on the mend, I think.
August 9, 1950
Hoed flower garden – first time I could get in because of mud. Warm sunny day. Mother still seems on the mend. I am to take her to Enid for check-up Monday.
August 10, 1950
Cold this morning – warm this afternoon. Looked like rain but didn’t quite do it. I painted bathroom window – worked rather ineffectively at odds & ends the rest of the day.
August 11, 1950
Drove to Covington and talked with the Ellis family about an article I am to write about Mr. Ellis. In afternoon took Mrs. Hawkins out to Lucile’s. Got hot & dry & windy in P.M.
August 12, 1950
Worked on Ellis article. Warm day. Mother slowly improving.
August 13, 1950
Warm day. I went to S.S. and church in morning. Rested and also worked some on Ellis article in afternoon.
August 14, 1950
Hot day. I took my mother to Enid for checking – found kidney infection cleared up. She feels much better than she did.
August 15, 1950
Finished Ellis article and sent it to the family for criticism. Warm day.
August 16, 1950
Cleaned house. Got pretty tired. Warm day.
August 17, 1950
Got note from Etta Mooberry that they will be here tomorrow or next day. Hard shower this evening. Mrs. Duel & Mrs. Baugh called.
August 18, 1950
Cold this morning. I fixed beds etc. for company. They are not here yet – might arrive during night. Mother is staying at Mrs. Burchardt’s. I will stay here to let them in if they come.
August 19, 1950
The Mooberrys came early this morning. They had got off the road and wandered around in the rough country east of Marshall until they finally gave up and spent the night in their car. They are very tired.
August 20, 1950
Rained nearly all day. Even colder than usual. We used the electric heater all day, but it didn’t furnish enough heat to warm us up. We didn’t go to church – just sat around and visited. Etta and her husband not well – George, poor fellow, partially paralyzed from birth.
August 21, 1950
Visited mostly. George Mooberry is the finest person I have ever seen, has a fine mind and a sweet and gentle spirit – bears his affliction with happy unselfconsciousness.
August 22, 1950
I took Mr. Mooberry and George to the top of the elevator. Then I took them over the country where they had been lost. Geo. Had a remarkable map of it in his mind. They came south on 74, missed the Marshall spur, went to 51, east 3 mi., north 1 mi. west 1 mi, north 1 mi. east 1 mi., back west 1 mi. where they spent night. In morning they got directions and drove on in to Marshall. Mr. M. ill this evening.
August 23, 1950
The Mooberrys left this morning. Mr. M. still not well. Mother and I think he has a serious heart condition. I cleaned the house, then in P.M. went to Mabel’s for WSCS meeting. It rained last night, but is bright today.
August 24, 1950
Drove out to Caudle farm and got 1½ bu. tomatoes @ $1. Very fine but some waste because of rainy-weather tendency to rot. I canned 21qts. of the ripest. Will finish tomorrow. Euleene Gammon called.
August 25, 1950
Canned the rest of the tomatoes – 28½ qt. in all besides a good many put away in the refrigerator to eat fresh. This was a good job. Hot day.
August 26, 1950
I did some sewing I have wanted to get at all summer – made my suit skirt looser and made over three nightgowns for my mother. Another hot day but a cold breeze from a rain is coming up now.
August 27, 1950
Lots of rain last night. Pretty good crowd in church – Wesley Kimball’s last Sunday before he goes into camp with the 45th division. We had a dinner for him and Mary in the Lions’ Den. Then the dist. Supt. (name Marble) had a meeting talking of a man to take his place.
August 28, 1950
Put up the stove and packed all day. Brought Mrs. Hawkins here for supper. It didn’t rain. Not so cold this morning – warm this afternoon.
August 29, 1950
Packed all day. Finished late tonight. I am not very efficient this year. Rained hard last night. Wonder if it will tomorrow. Learned Mr. Pearson died Saturday.
August 30, 1950
Attended to all the things that have to be done before leaving. Took dinner with Mrs. Hawkins. Mr. Moore came for our goods at one. Got to Stillwater, unpacked enough to make up our beds. Fine day, bright, cool, no rain. Winnie Cramer called just before we left.
August 31, 1950
Unpacked all day. Got the most of it done. Still I am not very efficient this year. Cool day – no rain – sun shone.
September 1, 1950
Got my hair fixed and unpacked some more in morning. Worked at library in afternoon. Another sunny day, but cool.
September 2, 1950
I went to town and stocked up on groceries, etc. Bought eight sheets we have been needing a long time – $2.69 each. In afternoon worked on Ellis article. Hammonds called this evening. So happy to see them. Bright day.
September 3, 1950
I went to church this morning – took Grace Hammond. Loafed in afternoon. Looked like rain but didn’t.
September 4, 1950
Labor day so library was closed. I got the Ellis article finished. It came very near raining but didn’t.
September 5, 1950
Bright cold day. I had to get new bulb for tail light on car. Found the bracket wobbled and switched light on and off, wearing it out.
September 6, 1950
We have finished a whole week without rain. It was a beautiful bright cold day. I did without coffee today. Have been intending to quit ever since the St. Joseph episode. It didn’t make me as sick as I expected. I worked at the library O.K.
September 7, 1950
Another bright cold day. Beautiful weather but hard on Mother. The furnace is not on and the electric stove does not furnish enough heat.
September 8, 1950
Bright crisp day. I am working hard these days trying to keep my four hours clear for writing. Mrs. Williamson came home this evening.
September 9, 1950
Faculty meeting in the ballroom of the wonderful new student union building. Dr. Bennett said exactly the fitting thing as always.
September 10, 1950
I went over to Marshall thinking I would attend church & bring Mrs. Hawkins back for a visit. But I was afraid it would rain (it didn’t), so came back without going to church. In afternoon I took her over to Hammonds’ & Ruth put her ballad “Oklahoma Boys” down in musical notation.
September 11, 1950
Cold and stormy looking, but no moisture fell. We are enjoying Mrs. Hawkins.
September 12, 1950
Rained off & on all day – pouring this evening. It is pretty cold. We are thankful for the heater.
September 13, 1950
It didn’t rain much this A.M. Cleared off this afternoon. I hope it has quit. I want to go to Marshall. Freshmen enrolling.
September 14, 1950
Rained hard several times last night as showers drifted over. I took Mrs. Hawkins over to the quonset [sic]. Mr. Low came by with the Ralph Hudsons.
September 15, 1950
Rained last night and off and on in the morning. We had a party (or was that Sept. 14? – I neglected making entry at the time?) in the order room for lovely Jean King who is going to be married soon. Ollie Bryson & Scottie Sample called this evening. (Bless them!)
September 16, 1950
Rained this morning. The radio told of a tornado at Sasakwa yesterday evening. I canned 5 qts. of grapes. Stayed away from my writing to do it. It is silly of me to waste my time on unnecessary housework.
September 17, 1950
For a wonder it didn’t rain. The sun shone and it was warm. I took Mrs. Hawkins to church, but she got sick and we had to leave. This afternoon I took her to see the beautiful new Student Union building.
September 18, 1950
I took Mrs. Hawkins to the library & Mr. Stratton made a recording of her ballad to keep in the library files. Then in the evening Mr. Woodworth & Bob Ledbetter came and made a recording to play over WKY at 5:15 A.M. Wednesday. I never saw anybody so happy as she is.
September 19, 1950
Today I took Mrs. Hawkins to Lucille’s. She thought she would stay with her so they can listen to the radio together. Hot day.
September 20, 1950
The words to Mrs. H’s ballad came Very hot day. Hard to work in the quonset [sic] under the roof. I wish I could have seen Mrs. Hawkins & Lucille when they heard the broadcast
September 21, 1950
Cooler day. Some of my beloved Marshall youngsters came in for a time this evening. Scotty Sample, Roy Beeby, Charles Sigler, Chan Duel, J. D. Purdue, Gene Williams. The others had various duties so they couldn’t come. How I hope they won’t have to go to war.
September 22, 1950
Cool day. When I came home this evening Dorothy Leake was here. She and Harold are up on business connected with Harold’s radio job. She stayed only a few minutes. Wonderful to see her.
September 23, 1950
I got word from the Indian Rights Association that they are finally ready to print my report, but they want it condensed a little – 36 instead of 40 printed pages. I cut down one chapter. This evening, we spent at the Hammonds with the Leakes. Had a wonderful visit.
September 24, 1950
I went to church this morning – loafed in afternoon. I was a little tired for we stayed at the Hammonds last night till nearly midnight. This was a perfect day – bright, crisp, beautiful
September 25, 1950
Mrs. Williamson is planning a little party for mother’s birthday tomorrow, one day early because of a conflict. We have conspired to have her go over to spend the evening, and then she will find her friends there.
September 26, 1950
Mother was ill all night and ill all day with a sudden cold. The guests were all coming so we didn’t call it off. She was much better in the evening, so I dressed her and combed her hair and they all came over for about half an hour. Then I put her to bed and soon I joined the party at Mrs. W’s.
September 27, 1950
Mother felt much better today. She really enjoyed her party even though it went wrong. And today Grace Hammond spent the afternoon with her, and Ellen Gordon came over. Ruth Hammond brought her a yellow bowl with 15 roses morning glories. Mrs. Gordon brought her a delicious lemon pie.
September 28, 1950
Mother actually got up and fried the chicken for dinner today. She is very much better. This evening Mrs. Williamson and I attended the annual Lahoma faculty reception in the beautiful Union ballroom.
September 29, 1950
Mothers ill again today – her cold seems to be back in full force. I did what I could and grabbed lunches for myself to eat. This evening Mrs. Williamson and I attended the annual reception for faculty. It was held in the beautiful Union ballroom.
September 30, 1950
I got my MS off to the Indian Rights Assn. This was a happy day on campus. The college defeated Texas in in a dramatic 13:7 game. This evening I went to see the movie of Shaw’s Pygmalion. I am about sick with Mother’s cold. She is a little better today.
October 1, 1950
My cold bothered me so I didn’t go to church. I am not really ill – just miserable. Loafed all day. Mother feeling much better.
October 2, 1950
Cloudy this morning, raining this P.M. and evening – and cold! We have several weeks of warm bright weather. Holiday today because of football victory but I didn’t get one. My cold is much better – also Mother’s.
October 3, 1950
Went to a very wonderful concert by Adolf Busch, violinist, and Rudolf Serkin, pianist. It turned so cold I am almost afraid it will frost. Said to be snowing in Kansas.
October 4, 1950
It didn’t frost, but was cold last night – still cold, I am on a committee working out a program for the meeting of state history profs.
October 5, 1950
[No entry]
October 6, 1950
[No entry]
October 7, 1950
Nothing in particular happened. I spent morning taking notes on early history of A.&M. –cleaned up house, etc. in P.M.
October 8, 1950
I went to church this morning – loafed in P.M.
October 9, 1950
[No Entry]
October 10, 1950
(I guess this is right date – neglected to make entry till so much time passed I forgot.) I went to Lahoma Club reception in order to introduce Mrs. Linscheid & Miss Haney – saw some very interesting pictures of Holland shown by Dr. Harper. Mother got a permanent.
October 11, 1950
Attended A.A.U.W. luncheon at New Hall – heard very interesting talk by Senor Roberto de la Rosa, cultural attaché of Mex. consulate at St. Louis.
October 12, 1950
[No Entry]
October 13, 1950
Heard a very wonderful lecture by Kagawa this morning. He has a completely integrated philosophy of love to God, man, & land. In af After work we drove to Marshall. In evening I attended a stunt night at school auditorium for benefit of Marshall fair. Weather pretty warm.
October 14, 1950
Our house was surprisingly free of dust so this morning I did a little cleaning & we enjoyed a nice looking house all day. In the afternoon I put some new trimming on my green house dress – the old having worn out. Linda Thomas spent the evening with us. Very hot day.
October 15, 1950
I went to S.S. & church, Mother just to church. We have a boy preacher named Glen Miller – a handsome chap, but very shallow sermon. We ate dinner with Mrs. Hawkins. Mrs. Darling & Mrs. Proctor there too. Drove back to Stillwater this evening. Very hot windy day. We brot [sic] back a lovely rose & some marigolds.
October 16, 1950
Another hot day. I heard a lecture by Ellis Arnall. I was disappointed. He made a sincere inspirational talk, no better than anyone could have done. (But I still have great admiration for Ellis Arnall.)
October 17, 1950
[No entry]
October 18, 1950
[No entry]
October 19, 1950
Our dear Grace Goodman came to visit us today. I believe her health is better and that she is recovering her spirits from the blow Oscar dealt her some years ago. Her nephew Dale Schaffer came here to see her. He is an A.&M. freshman.
October 20, 1950
The Home Ec. people are celebrating the fifteenth anniversary of the beginning of their work here. I attended a sort of dedication of a finished unit of their new bldg., then a banquet at the new Student Union, and then a historical pageant at the auditorium. I saw my beloved Helen Burton, and met Edith Mahier, whom I have wanted to meet a long time.
October 21, 1950
Mr. Nelson’s book MS came back from the S.W. Press in Dallas. I am rather unhappy about it. They liked it very much, but decided against it because it was more about Oklahoma than Texas.
October 22, 1950
I went to church this morning. In P.M. took Mother to see one floor of Student Union – all she could explore at once.
October 23, 1950
I got a permanent. It cost $7.50. I hope it improves me to that amount.
October 24, 19[50]
I am trying to figure out what to do with the Nelson MS. Mr. Low is trying to help me. Beautiful weather all the time.
October 25, 1950
Nothing happened. Just another bright beautiful crisp day. I worked and that is all.
October 26, 1950
Oct. 27 Poor Mr. Claude Campbell became ill & was taken to the city hospital, where his mind collapsed also. He became very violent & had to be restrained. This was about two weeks ago. Now he is at the Coyne Campbell clinic in O.C. Now his cousin
October 27, 1950
and cousin’s wife are here trying to settle his things, helping to take him back to Mo, and care for him in a nursing home. Mrs. Hartsock asked a few of us in to meet the cousin’s wife. Mrs. House. She is fine. I am distressed about poor Mr. Campbell, but glad he has such fine relatives.
October 28, 1950
Homecoming Day I saw the parade, which was very fine, but did not attend the game, (Missouri 20, Aggies 0). We are having very hot – not warm – weather nearly all the time.
October 29, 1950
I went to church this morning and in the P.M., a very wonderful lecture on atomic energy by David Lilianthal [sic] in the college auditorium. It was much cooler inside than in the sun, but even there it was so hot the men removed their coats.
October 30, 1950
This morning I went over to the Kezers and Mrs. Kezer gave me some very wonderful material she has clipped and saved through the years on the early history of the college. It is so warm tonight the sweat is rolling off my face in drops.
October 31, 1950
Whew! What a hot day. It is getting dry, too. A very quiet Halloween. One would not know there was such a day.
November 1, 1950
It turned cool today, seems a little cloudy tonight. Nothing happened.
November 2, 1950
Cool day, rather cloudy, and tonight it is raining.
November 3, 1950
Rained all night – was cold with a hard wind this morning. Soon after I got to school it started snowing – snowed hard all morning and was cold and wet all afternoon. Of course it melted as soon as it hit the warm ground. Tonight it is clear.
November 4, 1950
Last night we had our first frost of the season. It came hard and heavy: a white frost on the ground and ice 1/8 inch thick in the oleanders. I had to break the ice with a hammer and at noon it was still there not melted at all. The sun shone all day today.
November 5, 1950
Beautiful bright day. I went to church & S.S. in morning. In P.M. I went to the open house of the new Methodist student center. It was good to see John and Roberta.
November 6, 1950
Another bright day. Apparently the oleanders were not harmed by the freeze. In fact nothing was. Perhaps everything was too full of warm sap drawn up from the warm ground.
November 7, 1950
I got antifreeze in the car and had Berlins Chapman take the oleanders down to the basement. Harold Leake called today. He is spending the semester here tying up various threads to the business, probably will quit for good when everything is tidy. (This is my comment, not his.)
November 8, 1950
Went down town & looked for suit & formal dress but found none. Lovely warm day till 3 P.M. when wind swept up with a cloud of dust, and immediately turned cold. Cold this evening and promise of cold tomorrow.
November 9, 1950
Should be Nov. 11 – skipped a page Mercury down to 19° this morning at O.C. We should have gone home except for cold. Dorothy – bless her! – called & said she and Harold are going to get me a corsage when I am inducted into Hall of Fame.
November 10, 1950
Should be Nov. 12 I listened to church service on radio. Then we ate a hasty dinner & drove to Marshall. It is still rather cold and the house is cold. Sadie Goodnight called at our home this evening. I saw lovely house the August Burchardts have bought.
November 11, 1950
Should be Nov. 9 I turned 2 pages. Cold bright day. Pearl Buck spoke on Asia. She is a wonderful woman, and knows the Orient, but completely ignores Russia because she doesn’t know it. This evening I attended a meeting of the history committee at the church.
November 12, 1950
Should be Nov. 10 I spoke to junior high this morning on Civil War fighting around Stillwater. Mercury down to 22° this morning at O.C. Cold, bright day. Dorothy Leake is in town & this evening she and Harold took supper with us. It was wonderful to have them. My gallery proofs came from Ind. Rights Assn.
November 13, 1950
We got a man from the lumber yard (and hdwe) to fix the plumbing for winter. Then we drove back and I worked this P.M. This evening I attended meeting of the Social Science Club & heard a man lecture on modern art. Silly stuff but good lecture.
November 14, 1950
It is finally getting warm again. Nothing in particular happened.
November 15, 1950
Nothing in particular happened. Tomorrow I am to be inducted into the Okla. Hall of Fame. I am lukewarm in my appreciation of "the great honor,” as they called it when they notified me.
November 16, 1950
Got word that Gladys Davis’s father died last Friday. I went to the City on the bus and stopped at Biltmore. In the evening I was inducted into the Okla. Hall of Fame. A very taudry [sic]ceremony – all show, no sincerity or integrity. It was redeemed by the real goodness of people like the Leakes, who sent me a most wonderful orchid & Mrs. Newlin, who came to see me at the hotel.
November 17, 1950
Didn’t sleep much last night, woke early this morning & thought I might as well start home. Left at eight & stayed 2 hrs. in Guthrie. There I saw dear little Mrs. Reed, who gave me my first insight into what one could do with words when she taught me freshman high school English. Poor little soul – she has had a fall. She is 87.
November 18, 1950
I got home yesterday at noon, worked in P.M., went to Library party in Quonset 20 at night. Had lots of fun at the party. Am pretty sleepy today. I worked at getting illustrations ready for the booklet the Indian Rights Assn. Is publishing of my survey. Warm day.
November 19, 1950
Hot day till the wind swept in from the north about three o’clock. Now it is getting cold. I went to church this morning – heard a wonderful sermon on gratitude by Dr. Stowe. In P.M. went to Payne Co. Hist. Soc., where Dr. Mahnken read a paper on influence of Bryan in Okla.
November 20, 1950
Bright day but cold. Nothing in particular happened expect that
I got my illustrations off the Indian Rights Assn. They are not so good as I wish they were.
November 21, 1950
Should be Nov. 22 Nice bright day. Students all leaving for Thanksgiving holidays.
November 22, 1950
Should be Nov. 23 Mother and I had a most wonderful dinner with Mrs. Geel & Elizabeth Thomas (a turkey so beautifully browned it was a sin to cut it, scrumptious dressing and all the fixin’s) – lovely visit afterwards. Cold bright day & getting colder.
November 23, 1950
Nov. 23 cont’d Stillwater is a very quiet place today. I worked till 12:30 then we went to Elizabeth’s – spent all P.M. there.
November 24, 1950
Down to 10° at O.C. this morning – cold all day. I worked at the library in the midst of a dead campus. This evening I went over to the Garrett’s to meet Mrs. G’s sister Mrs. Bowers. Mrs. Berrigan and Mrs. Uzzell were there. I like Mrs. Uzell.
November 25, 1950
Poor Ellen Gordon fell off the back porch and broke her arm near the wrist – both bones. I called the hospital, then tried to get my car out but hers blocked it in, so Mr. Holland took her. I went out to the hospital and brought her home. She is suffering some but O.K.
November 26, 1950
I went to church this morning and for a change taught a S.S. class. This P.M. I called on our next door neighbors the Whisenhunts – found them very likable people. This evening my beloved Roy Beeby dropped in for a little visit and to ask my help in a report on Indian art.
November 27, 1950
[No entry]
November 28, 1950
[No entry]
November 29, 1950
[No entry]
November 30, 1950
Attended a Pi Gamma Mu dinner where Dr. Lewis made a very informative talk on the Chinese Communists – who incidentally are chewing up our army in Korea.
December 1, 1950
Seems I am pretty tired these days. And what frightening news from Korea! It looks as though this might be the end of everything
December 2, 1950
The annual football duel between A.&M. & OU was fought here today. The OU team is classed by sports writers as the best in the US. But poor little A.&M. stood up to them bravely – even scored twice and held them down to 41 points. This is O.U.’s 31st straight win.
December 3, 1950
I went to church this morning and taught the S.S. class. Loafed in the afternoon. This Korean situation keeps me awake nights and I’m getting pretty tired.
December 4, 1950
Cold day – raining a little this evening. Mr. Corfield brought in half of a 20-member class to see my maps. I enjoyed having them. The rest will come next Monday.
December 5, 1950
Snow, high wind, and intense cold – worst weather I ever saw this early in year. Snow not very deep – just thin covering.
December 6, 1950
Thermometer down almost to zero at different points over the state this morning. I am doing some revision of Nelson MS. He sent me some new material and I am working it in.
December 7, 1950
Still pretty cold. I managed to sleep last night, so felt rested and had the Hammond sisters and Harold Leake here for supper. We had a very pleasant visit. Found my car won’t start.
December 8, 1950
It is warming up a little. Still that Korean situation. There was an Allied Arts concert but I was too tired to go.
December 9, 1950
I had Mr. Hull start my car, and when he tried to charge the battery he found it was n.g. I suppose Wilson Watson at Marshall have so few sales their batteries deteriorate. And my guarantee is at Marshall! But the Delco people gave me a new one, & will make adjustment later. I got Nelson story finished.
December 10, 1950
I taught the S.S. class – heard a very fine sermon by Dr. Stowe. Then in P.M. Mother and I drove home and got the guarantee. It was a lovely bright day, but ponds still frozen hard. We saw Mrs. Hawkins & Mrs. Newell and I visited a few minutes with Claudia this evening. Grace DeMotte & Mrs. Williamson called.
December 11, 1950
I took my guarantee down and had adjustment made on price of my new battery. I hope this trouble is over. I had 2 n.g. batteries from that Marshall firm – bought first in August, 1949.
I mailed my Nelson MS to Arthur H. Clark. Rest of Mr. Corfield’s class called.
December 12, 1950
I relaxed a little and cleared up my cluttered desk. I try to write four hrs. A day. Then I work at the library 4 hours. Then I have other duties to fill the evening – so I can’t attend to my own affairs much.
December 13, 1950
This morning I wrote my Xmas letter & took it down town for mimeographing. In P.M. took Mother to Marshall to the WSCS Xmas meeting. They recently made her a life member & she wanted to thank them. It was at Mrs. Ingle’s.
December 14, 1950
I went back to work collecting notes on my A.&M. history. This evening the directors and officers of the Payne Co. Hist. Soc. Met at the Chapmans.’ Nice meeting but small attendance.
December 15, 1950
I am planning to take Mother to Enid tomorrow to see Dr. Duffy. This Christmas season is enough to break one’s heart with everyone trying all the old loved cheerful customs
December 16, 1950
Drove to Enid, saw the doctor (Mother O.K.), returned by Marshall, where I picked up a few things at the house while Mother visited with Mrs. Hawkins. Got to Stillwater about five. Coldish day – cloudy at first.
December 17, 1950
I went to church in the morning. In the afternoon there was a very lovely coffee at the Lows, which Mother and I attended. I missed symphonic choir concert. The young Hortons called with a darling baby.
December 18, 1950
Nothing in particular happened. The students are badly demoralized over the approaching holiday. They are jumpy anyhow because of their personal uncertainty in these war times.
December 19, 1950
Some trouble developed in mimeographing my Xmas letters so they were not ready till this evening. I went down and got them after work. This will crowd me getting them out.
December 20, 1950
I directed Xmas letters all morning, adding a short personal message to each – got about 40 done. In the evening I wrapped Christmas parcels. Most of my parcels went out this week. These are for personal delivery.
December 21, 1950
I got up at 5:30 and wrote directed Xmas letters all morning. Got off about 50. Neither of my gals is working today. Katherine is A.W.O.L. and Marilynn went home early to spend a precious day with her soldier brother.
December 22, 1950
I went down town and got extra envelopes – finished all but scattered letters and cards. School officially closed at 5 P.M. but most of the students left earlier. Warm, lovely day.
December 23, 1950
Beautiful bright day. I wrote a few Xmas letters and cards. Then went down town and bought a small portable record player ($29.90) and the whole of Handel’s Messiah ($28.99). We enjoyed it all afternoon while I washed, cleaned at the house, etc. Got letter from Aunt Ida that Bruce is in air force. She is heartbroken.
December 24, 1950
I went to church & heard a fine sermon. I burned Mother’s hand, painfully but not seriously, with hot gravy. We listened to the Messiah off and on all day. This P.M. I made cookies to give to some friends tomorrow. Warm day.
December 25, 1950
I sewed this morning while we listened to Messiah; Took Xmas dinner with Hammonds – lovely turkey ‘n’ everything. I took the Messiah records along and we played some of them – also listened to a recorded broadcast of Methodist choir’s [sic] Messiah on KSPG. So warm I drove around without any coat.
December 26, 1950
Went to O.C. and bo’t [sic] me a suit. It is tan and I hope I shall like it. I left it to be altered slightly. There was such a crowd I bought it under difficulties. It cost $44 + tax and $1.50 alteration. Terribly cold day.
December 27, 1950
I worked on a short account of my last year’s work with the Indians which Mr. Woodworth wants to broadcast.
December 28, 1950
I worked at the library this P.M., the library vacation being over. Also I went to the studio and made a recording for the broadcast. The Leakes are here so this evening the Hammonds had us all over for supper. We ate the rest of the Xmas turkey – delicious and had a wonderful evening
December 29, 1950
I worked at the library also went to ask Mr. Low what his tho’t [sic]about my making a calendar for Mr. Leake. He is in favor of it. Then he took me all over the new library. The skeleton is now four stories up. Wonderful view. Cold day.
December 30, 1950
Beautiful warm bright day. I worked as usual in morning. Then in P.M. took Mother for a drive out to Lake Carl Blackwell. The water was the blueist blueist I ever saw it. We sat in the car and looked at it a long time. Two gulls were flying over it. My new suit came.
December 31, 1950
I went to church in morning – wore new suit. Warm day. In P.M. Mother & I called on Marguerita Walters & met her lovely mother who came from Germany last summer. Her husband, Bruce, was home from Ft. Sill so we didn’t stay long. Bruce & his beautiful German wife are fine.