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4. 1950s
5. 1955

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January 1 - December 31, 1955

(Box 5/Folder 5)

 

January 1, 1955

Beautiful bright day with more snow melting. This evening I had dinner at the Warrens’. Had a wonderful time. And how that girl can cook! I worked at the library – open as usual.

 

January 2, 1955

It was such a sloppy day I didn’t drive to Marshall to church.  I went to church here – & attended Judge Wilcox’s S.S. class since mine is gone. Can’t remember what I did the rest of the day – am making late entry. I want to get a record player for Donna Boyce. I don’t know how to do it.

 

January 3, 1955

Classes started today. Still very sloppy. The only snow left is where the biggest drifts are. Cant’ remember much In evening I took my radio record player to Ruth Johnson’s and compared them. I have decided to get one like hers. That will give me an excuse to give Donna mine.

 

January 4, 1955

Ordered a record player. Got my car & driver’s license. Went to O.C. I talked with Miss Donnell about Friday “termination.” Had a wonderful visit with Dorothy Holcomb. Came home & took Kathleen to Writers’ Club. Am tired. It is raining softly. Record player will cost me 139.50.

 

January 5, 1955

Good shower last night. This evening I was invited to the supper celebrating Donna Boyce’s 16th birthday. Two of her young friends there, Jean Hawkins and a little Latvian girl. I gave her my record player & one duplicate record I had & Ruth Hammond had several duplicates for her. She fairly glowed with happiness.

 

January 6, 1955

John Joseph Mathews was here to talk to Dr. Chapman’s Okla. hist. classes. I attended one session & it was a stimulating intellectual experience. Then His wife, Elizabeth, was there too. Then Dr. Chapman took several of us to lunch. Most enjoyable. Later Mr. Low & I showed them the library. S.S. class this evening as usual.

 

January 7, 1955

They brought my record player this evening but I didn’t keep it because I ordered walnut & got mahogany.

 

January 8, 1955

Chenoweth & Greene don’t know much about their business.  I found out from another dealer. It doesn’t come in walnut. Also the price is $20 more than they quoted me. I was foolish enough to ask them to look it up & they agreed. Wish I had kept still for they deserve to lose money. They finally threw off $10 so it cost me $149.50.

 

January 9, 1955

Went to church & S.S. had a fine class. Played my wonderful new record player all the rest of the day. Went to the Boyce’s & found Donna playing hers. She is so happy with it. It was a good idea for me to get a new one and giver her mine. Good deal for both of us.

 

January 10, 1955

A light snow covered the ground this morning. Every little helps. I learned lovely Joyce Werner is leaving – good job at Illinois.

 

January 11, 1955

Cold day – dark and dreary but no moisture. There will be a party Jan. 19 for Joyce. I am still enjoying my record player.

 

January 12, 1955

Ever since before Christmas the girls in the house (Vesta Etchison and Esther Anderson) have planned to come in and listen to the Messiah. This evening all three (Mrs. Smith also) did. We played all of Part I – also drank coffee. Had a real party.

 

January 13, 1955

We had our Bible class this evening. I was tired but we enjoyed it so much I felt rested. We are starting Revelations. Without being frivolous we manage to do a lot of laughing when we meet.

 

January 14, 1955

I worked till about eight o’clock on an article I am writing for The American Indian. It is due the “middle of Jan.” I got pretty tired but listened to music on my record player and somewhat rested.

 

January 15, 1955

I did some prose hard work on my article and got it mailed before the P.O. closed at noon. This is the last day of classes. Next week is finals. There is some hard study going on around this campus.

 

January 16, 1955

It threatened rain but didn’t. I taught my S.S. class (fine big class in spite of impending finals.) and I went to church. In the evening I had the Hammonds to supper (also Mrs. Bovard). I wanted them to hear my new record player. They liked it.

 

January 17, 1955

Sifting or threatening rain all day. I had planned to go to Lawton tomorrow but decided the weather was too threatening – too much like three weeks ago when I postponed the trip. Right now it is really pouring raining – water running in the streets. Very warm.

 

January 18, 1955

Rained all night, but only .60 in. fell. Then started snowing early in morning and snowed till noon. Soft snow. About 4 in. Just what we need only more. Nice and warm till the middle of the afternoon, when it turned cold. Pretty cold now. Heavy clouds.

 

January 19, 1955

Dark gloomy day. Got a new girl to help me today. Very handsome and capable. Name Mrs. Helen Slack. We had a party at noon for lovely Joyce Werner, who is going to Illinois U. We all ate lunch together in the mural room and gave her a “Merry Widow” record album.

 

January 20, 1955

Coldish day and tonight the wind is banging around the house and getting really cold. It was very dark and cloudy all day. I suppose tomorrow will about finish the semester. Finals all this week. We didn’t have Bible class.

 

January 21, 1955

It didn’t storm as I expected. The morning dawned clear and not especially cold. We had the first clear day we have had for a long time.

 

January 22, 1955

Another clear day. I may finally get to make the Lawton trip next week.

 

January 23, 1955

Took the Boyce family & Pearl’s father Mr. Holderried to church at Marshall. Then had dinner with them. It was a very pleasant day for me and I think they enjoyed it too. The Marshall people were so nice and friendly to them. Saw patches of snow.

 

January 24, 1955

It was cloudy and so again I didn’t start to Lawton. It was a good thing I didn’t because a call came from the president’s office to plan Irving tour.

 

January 25, 1955

W. G. Miller & Col Shirk came up from the City & with B. B. Chapman, Mr. Hesser, Clay Potts, and of course, Pres. Willham and me we planned the night of the tour that will be spent here. Then all of us but the busy pres. had lunch at Stu. Union coffee shop.

 

January 26, 1955

Drove to Arapaho Anadarko & talked with Mrs. Boynton at the agency. Then to Apache, got directions from Mr. Elliott & talked with old Jason Betzinez & wife all P.M. Came on to Lawton & stopped at Star Tourist Courts. Good place. Called briefly on Dr. Hammond & daughter Adele.

 

January 27, 1955

Had a good day. Failed to accomplish anything this morning, but in P.M. drove north of Apache, visited in home of Sam Hauser. Then at Cache Creek Mission (Mr. & Mrs. D.C. Ward, she daughter of Cullisons who founded mission early in 1889. Also, I went to Ft. Sill library & borrowed a book. Took dinner with the Hammonds at Chuck Wagon. Very fine.

 

January 28, 1955

Got some information from the Chaats [?] at mission north of Anadarko. Then stopped at Fort Sill and picked up pictures. Came home by a new road north of Anadarko to Watonga then across to Kingfisher. Came home to find my record player burned up. It failed to turn off the last evening I played it, so was on all the time I was gone.

 

January 29, 1955

Had my record player taken back to the shop. It is pretty badly damaged. This evening I had dinner and spent the evening with the Hammonds – to celebrate my birthday tomorrow – also to tell them about seeing their brother and niece.

 

January 30, 1955

I taught my S.S. class and attended the 11 o’ clock service. Then Vesta Etchison & Esther Anderson took me to dinner at the Student Union to celebrate my birthday. In the evening I went with Pearl Boyce and Paul to hear Dwayne tell of his months in a work camp in the Philippines.

 

January 31, 1955

Neglected to make entry – don’t remember what happened.

 

February 1, 1955

I taught my S.S. Class and attended the 11 o’ clock service. Then Vesta Etchison & Esther Anderson took me to lunch at the student union to celebrate Attended meeting of Writers Club at Mabel Caldwell’s.

 

February 2, 1955

Neglected to make entry.

 

February 3, 1955

Cloudy and raining softly this evening. I was too much of a sissy to go to the Bible class. Had just got my car washed and hated to get it muddy.

 

February 4, 1955

It rained all night last night – more than an inch in all. Was general over the state – “a million dollar [sic] rain,” the papers called it. They say it saved the wheat.  But we need weeks of rain to soak into the subsoil.

 

February 5, 1955

Nothing in particular happened

 

February 6, 1955

I taught my S.S. class and went to church. Called on dear old Mr. Hawkins Hastings in the afternoon.

 

February 7, 1955

Nothing in particular happened. I am getting wonderful help from my new girl, Helen Slack. I am going to Muskogee Wednesday with Idress Cash to observe Bacone’s 75th anniversery [sic].

 

February 8, 1955

I got me some luggage I have needed a long time – a suitcase and a small case for an overnight bag. It co The two cost with taxes $39+. I hope I made a good buy.

 

February 9, 1955

I went to Muskogee with Idress Cash. Had a wonderful visit with Mrs. Foreman. Then we drove out to Bacone, ate barbecued buffalo, and then attended a most moving commemoration service in the chapel. The buffalo has a strong wild distinctive flavor.

 

February 10, 1955

Bible class did not meet. We have finished Revelation. When we looked out at the towns court (Colonial, on Okmulgee) we saw the weather had changed. Sleet soon formed on the windshield, but the defroster soon cleared it. It was very cold and it snowed briskly at times. We returned to Stillwater about eleven. It cleared off but is very cold.

 

February 11, 1955

Clear, bright day but very cold. Nothing much happened.

 

February 12, 1955

Still cold.

 

February 13, 1955

Taught my S.S. class and went to church. Called on the Garretts in the afternoon. It has finally got warm.

 

February 14, 1955

Warm day. My little Cecilia got back an article I had encouraged her to send to American Heritage though it was hardly historical. They said so when they sent it back, but they wrote so fine a letter telling her how good it was that she felt encouraged rather than disappointed.

 

February 15, 1955

This evening I attended the meeting of the writers’ club. Good meeting. Also some fun.

 

February 16, 1955

I spoke to the girls in the honorary journalistic sorority today. Nice group. We went through the cafeteria line and then carried our trays to the mural room for the meeting.

 

February 17, 1955

I attended the Bible reading class. We have finished reading the Bible and are now getting ready to start the Apochrypha. I find it interesting.

 

February 18, 1955

Had pretty good ran during the night and off and on during the day. The ground is still dry down deep but surface moisture helps.

 

February 19, 1955

Pretty cold. Hard pellets of sleet fell this morning. Cleared off this P.M. I am working very hard on an article on Geronimo.

 

February 20, 1955

Taught my S.S. class – went to church. In. P.M. called on Mrs. Wallin at the nursing home and on Mr. Hastings. Bright beautiful crisp day.

 

February 21, 1955

A scoundrel I left work at 10 min. before 5 because I was getting my hair washed. When Helen attempted to close up a scoundrel almost caught her. She screamed and ran to the office and told Mr. Low. She can identify him if she sees him again.

 

February 22, 1955

[No entry]

 

February 23, 1955

 

[No entry]

February 24, 1955

Went to meeting of Ittanaha Indian Club. Kathleen Garrett, the sponsor, couldn’t be there. Fine bunch of young people.

 

February 25, 1955

[No entry]

 

February 26, 1955

Got my record player back – so thankful to have it. And Chenoworth & Green didn’t charge me a cent – just told me they were sorry I had trouble.

 

February 27, 1955

Taught my S.S. class and went to church. In P. M. took Idras [sic?] Cash over to Marshall to pick up some things I needed in the house. Saw the date chiseled on my mother’s side of my parents’ stone. They did good job.

 

February 28, 1955

I am spending most of my spare time listening to my records. I do enjoy that record player.

 

March 1, 1955

Went to Writers’ Club. It was very warm – has been really hot some days recently – preview of a terrible summer I’m afraid.

 

March 2, 1955

[No entry]

 

March 3, 1955

Went to Bible Class (now in Apocrypha) – then to a fine production of “The Winters’ Tale.”

 

March 4, 1955

Went to fine production of “Skin of Their Teeth” by Thornton Wilder.

 

March 5, 1955

Tired. Up too late last night. John & Roberta Gingerich with Robin & Clark came by to see me. They look wonderful.

 

March 6, 1955

Religious Emphasis Week so a speaker for my S.S. class and I got a vacation. Went to church at Marshall. Kathleen Garrett went with me.

 

March 7, 1955

Listened to a REW speaker, but not greatly impressed. Not like Dr. Sittler a year ago. There was a luncheon meeting and one at four for the faculty.

 

March 8, 1955

Lovely weather (only we need rain). Several of us took lunch today with an O.C. high school librarian whose name Dierdorf slips my mind and some students she brought up to see our library.  Dierdorf

 

March 9, 1955

I went to Guthrie to see about homestead exemption. I thought I wasn’t entitled to it but the assessor’s office said I was. (Thank you.) Then I went on to O.C. and read about Geronimo in the newspaper files. Had lunch with Rella Roony – saw Mr. Fraker & Edna. Got a chance to travel on that wonderful new road north of O.C.

 

March 10, 1955

Lovely morning – dreadful dust storm later in the day, hiding the sun, putting a red pall over every- thing.  Went to the Bible study class this evening. Got Mr. Harrison to help help me with my income tax this morning. The new law bothers me.

 

March 11, 1955

Another dusty day but towards evening there was some real cloud mixed with the pall covering the sky. I am afraid to play my records for fear I shall ruin them with the grinding sifting dust in everything.

 

March 12, 1955

Looking above I see we had a worse dust storm a year ago. We haven’t had to drive with lights, this past two days. Today it is over. I cleaned my apartment this evening. It seems good to be in a clean place once more.

 

March 13, 1955

Taught my S.S. class and went to church – wrote letters and listening listened to records all afternoon. We are having a very early spring if it were not so dry.  Even the redbuds are starting to bloom.

 

March 14, 1955

I had a permanent today. Light shower with some hail this evening.

 

March 15, 1955

Writers Club guest night. Edith Copeland gave a wonderful talk on “The American Novel as The Reviewer Sees It.”  I was on the committee and made arrangements for her.  Some of us ate lunch dinner with her at the Union.

 

March 16, 1955

I asked some of the library staff to have breakfast with Edith. I am always so proud of the mental alertness and charm of that group. Then we showed her the library and I saw her off on the ten o’clock bus.

 

March 17, 1955

Went to the Bible class. For some reason I forgot all about it until Anna called – even though I have attended regularly for a year and a half.

 

March 18, 1955

I finally got the writing of my Geronimo article finished. Now I have only to copy it. It is a lot too long I am afraid.

 

March 19, 1955

Mist close this morning but cleared off in big loose clouds before night. I sent off a book autographed to Pres. & Mrs. Eisenhower. The Congressional wives are having a party for Mamie and giving her a book from each state. Naturally I am pleased to think the Okla. delegation chose mine.

 

March 20, 1955

Hard rain last night with thunder. Rained off and on all A.M. Then two lighter showers this evening Everybody happy. Had big S.S. class this morning – more out than on bright days. Even students happy about it.

 

March 21, 1955

Things frozen solid this morning – pane of ice on water puddles. Then about 8:30 it started snowing. Snowed hard all day. It is several inches deep all over the ground. Spring was early – fruit trees all in bloom, also shrubs, even redbud. Grass green. Willows in leaf, elms in full heavy seed.

March 22, 1955

Clear day – snow all melted except on north side. I went to with Anna Oursler to Faculty Club and heard very scholarly lecture by Dr. Levin about Toynbee. Flowers dead, leaves gone, elm seeds hanging brown.

 

March 23, 1955

Beautiful day – the rest of the snow melted. I went this evening to the initiation of Phi Kappa Phi. Proud to see Carl Caskey and Shirley Daniel there. (I guess Carl was initiated last year.)

 

March 24, 1955

Beautiful day – clean sky, bright sunshine. Bible class met with me this evening. I sent off my Geronimo article this morning but I hardly think they will use it. I know it is too long.

 

March 25, 1955

Terribly cold day – the coldest we have had all winter I think. A little cold snow fell. This evening I attended music listening group at Anna Ourslers [sic].

 

March 26, 1955

Clear but still pretty cold. I went to the Wesley Foundation. annual banquet and installation of officers. Lovely service. How I love those fine kids! [It went down to 13ᵒ during this cold spell.]

 

March 27, 1955

Taught my S.S. class. Lucius Hall preached a fine sermon. (Mr. Williams ill with flu.) In P.M. I called on Mr. Hastings and Mrs. Hatcher. Bright day, not so cold.

 

March 28, 1955

Lovely bright day. Got a letter from Anna Tresidder saying her brother Dave dropped dead on New Year’s eve.

 

March 29, 1955

I went to Norman with the college station wagon. Talked with Savoie L. about my next book. He says “Geronimo.” In the evening I heard a very fine concert by two pianists. Noticed redbud blooms – entirely killed. First time I ever knew it to happen in all the years I have lived in Okla.

 

March 30, 1955

The leaves are killed on everything, also the blooms. The elm seeds turned brown and fell off. Trees like arbor vitae are largely killed but one can’t be sure yet.

 

March 31, 1955

Bible class postponed till tomorrow because one of the girls couldn’t attend. They will meet with me and listen to Parts II and III of the Messiah.

 

April 1, 1955

I neglected to make entry. I think this was the day it rained. The Bible class met with me and listened to the Messiah.

 

April 2, 1955

Nothing happened. I am working on a talk for the Stillwater Woman’s Club. The Wesley Foundation is having retreat tomorrow so I shall have no S.S. class.

 

April 3, 1955

Took Mrs. Smith along and went to Marshall to church this morning. Wheat still alive. In P.M. went with Clay Potts & B.B. Chapman to check some things on Irving’s route. In evening heard wonderful Easter music at church – David Thorntosis’s [?] “My Heart is Glad.” Terrible dust storm all day.

 

April 4, 1955

Took Mrs. Warren and her little boys and went out again to check the Irving route. Bad dusty day. No beauty in countryside – so very dry, and everything killed by the cold spell

 

April 5, 1955

[No entry for 1955]

 

April 6, 1955

Last day of school before Easter vacation.

 

April 7, 1955

I took the day off today. Cleaned house but didn’t accomplish much. In evening we had our Bible class and then went to a communion service. Then Mrs. McClure came over and we played the Messiah records.

 

April 8, 1955

My dear friends Anna & Bess Boyce are here visiting Wallace’s family: This evening they all came over for dessert and then we played the Messiah records. I worked all day.

 

April 9, 1955

I worked this morning. In P.M. I took Anna and Bess over the Irving route. It looks like rain.

April 10, 1955

It rained last night and a little off and on during the day. I went to the Presbyterian church because I wanted to hear Mr. Hage preach the Easter sermon but they had a cantanta [sic] instead. I had dinner at the Boyces’.

 

April 11, 1955

Learned that Helen Slack’s baby is in the hospital under an oxygen tent very ill with pneumonia. They had planned a happy Easter vacation and now this.

 

April 12, 1955

Classes began again today. Cecilia is ill – flu. This evening I went to the City to join the rest of the Writers’ Club to put on a program for the Okla. Writers Club. I rode with Wade & Lora Johnson. Bernice De Shon was a passenger also. Fine time but tired. Esther and Percy Porter stopped by.

 

April 13, 1955

The damaged trees and shrubs are barely starting to put out some more leaves. But they are still ugly with the dead brown of their early trial at spring. This is the ugliest spring I ever saw.

 

April 14, 1955

We had our Bible class at Grace De Motte’s – celebrated three of the girls’ birthdays afterward.

 

April 15, 1955

A few of the trees show a very faint green color now. The killed seeds still make the elms brown.

 

April 16, 1955

Very hot day. People said it was 93ᵒ. Went this evening with Mrs. Otis Smith and some other ladies to eat a meal furnished by the Band Mothers at Perkins. Saw Mrs. Hubbard.

 

April 17, 1955

I taught my S.S. class and went to church this morning. In P.M. went to meeting of Payne Co. Hist. Soc. Idress [?] came home with me and we played the Messiah records even tho’ it was after Easter. Helen’s baby is home.

 

April 18, 1955

[No entry for 1955]

 

April 19, 1955

Should be Apr. 26 I went home and spoke at Guest Day of Marshall Woman’s Club. Terrible dust storm. Saw Mrs. Hawkins briefly. A baby (old enough to know better) yelled at the height of his lungs & temper straight thru my speech and about ruined me. In evening I spoke to B. & P. Woman’s Club here. No baby and I spoke better than usual. I think my arbor vitae were killed by the hard late freeze. See Apr. 26

 

April 20, 1955

[No entry for 1955]

 

April 21, 1955

Our Bible class met with Allie B. Wallace.

 

April 22, 1955

[No entry for 1955]

 

April 23, 1955

Very bad dust storm. This is a spring with no beauty. The trees are finally coming into leaf except for parts brown and dead from the freeze. The paper says the wheat in the Panhandle is entirely gone even though it should rain.

 

April 24, 1955

I taught my S.S. class and went to church. In the afternoon Betty came from Marshall and got a few of my Indian things to use at the club guest day where I am to speak Tuesday P.M.

 

April 25, 1955

Apr. 26-27 Dr. Clinton diied [sic] April 26 in Tulsa. Louise Whitham called me. I planned to go to the funeral Apr. 27 but couldn’t manage because of the Irving tour and the probability that J.J.M. could not speak on account of his sister’s condition.

 

April 26, 1955

 

April 19 Entry for Apr. 19 should go here. Went to Stillwater Writers Club meeting at Glenn Shirley’s Nice meeting but group was small.

 

April 27, 1955

We are getting ready for the Irving tour of the OHS. They will spend the night here and it was my responsibility to arrange the program. I had asked John Joseph Mathews to speak but I hardly expected him for his sister was dying of cancer. Today his wife called, said she died today, will be buried Fri. but he will speak.

 

April 28, 1955

Everything is in readings for the Irving tour. J.J. M. is so fine to keep his engagement. I told him not to consider us at all but his wife said he wants to do it. It will be hard and I know they will be very tired. Funeral in the morning, drive 76 mi. & speak here in the evening.

 

April 29, 1955

People on the tour arrived late so dinner started at 8:15 instead of 7. Then Gen. Key & W.H. Miller talked a lot. J.J.M. didn’t start to speak till about 10:30. I am very unhappy about subjecting him to that. But the people were in good spirits and were so anxious to hear him they stuck it out. And when he finally did speak it was fine.

 

April 30, 1955

Tourists visited the library. I did the honors as much as I could, Mr. Low & Mr. Stratton both being away. At noon they had a buffalo barbecue at the rock formation Irving named “Cliff Castle.” I drove out with Idras Cash. Hot windy day. Dust not too bad. In evening had dessert with the Hammonds.

 

May 1, 1955

Shower early this morning – hard but brief. I taught my S.S. class and went to church.

 

May 2, 1955

Hot day and the air conditioning system in the library went bad. Cecilia got her news from John Hay Whitney scholarship and it was bad. I do not know why she failed. I was about sure she would get it. I am very unhappy about it.

 

May 3, 1955

Another hot day without air conditioning, and we can’t open the windows. I learned that Ione Ingle died at Marshall. Like all that family she was greatly gifted; girl and her life was happy and productive in spite of her being crippled. I am sure things were hard for her after her mother’s death.

 

May 4, 1955

May 3 contd’ [sic] I have a sort of cold from breathing dust, so didn’t go to Writers’ Club.

 

May 5, 1955

Another hot day at the library. Outside it threatened rain some but didn’t. I was initiated into Theta Sigma Phi, woman’s journalistic fraternity – national member. Nice of the girls.

 

May 6, 1955

I got pretty dragged out working with sweat running down in rivulets. Miss Graves has sciatica so I went out to see her. She was so bad I thought she should not be alone so I am staying with her.

May 7, 1955

 

I went out to se Miss Graves was in much pain this morning but she got better as the day progressed. I went out to see her at noon and in the evening it did not seem necessary for me to stay; so I didn’t. Pleasant working at the library for the air conditioner is working.

 

May 8, 1955

Mrs. G. sent me some lovely flowers. Nice cool day. I went to church, taught my class. In the P.M. Rachel Williams Patrick from Enid came to see me. She has a fine husband, fine son, Billy, a freshman in Phillips, and a young daughter, Rachel Anne. I liked them much. R. is surprisingly unchanged since I last saw her as a h.S. student in 1923. Hard rain this evening.

 

May 9, 1955

It rained a lot last night; some today but cleared off. Paper tells of heavy rains over the state – even some rivers up. Marshall got 4½ in.

 

May 10, 1955

Lovely cool day. It rained again during the night. I don’t know how much. Rains general over the state. People hope drought will be broken. Dr. Chapman invited Dr. Knight, Dr. Mehnkin and me to lunch with Ex-Gov. Johnston & Mrs. J, Mr. Vance Pres of A.H.T.A. & a college girl at lunch. Very enjoyable.

 

May 11, 1955

Rained softly during the night and nearly all day. Just what we need. I attended a dinner of Phi Alpha Theta and heard Dr. Levin speak about Toynbee. Very fine.

 

May 12, 1955

Sprinkled during the morning but cleared off. In evening I attended the Theta Sigma Phi Matrix dinner. Ilka Chase spoke. A nitwit but a predatory one.

 

May 13, 1955

Bright beautiful day. For the first time this year we are having a taste of spring. We almost missed it.

 

May 14, 1955

Attended dinner at the church in honor of the graduating seniors. (Bless them!) After I got home got telegram Aunt Lisetta died yesterday. Dear Aunt Lisetta! She was in the same condition as my dear little mother and for about the same length of time. She was 91.

 

May 15, 1955

I expect to be away next Sunday so this is the last time I shall teach my class. They are so fine. I do love young people. I went to church (poor sermon). In P.M. I wrote letters to the Tildens and other relatives. Threatened rain but didn’t. Cool. day.

 

May 16, 1955

Cool day. Dear little Aunt Lisetta was buried today. I wish I could have been there. My affection for her goes back to my very earliest memories. Cool day.

 

May 17, 1955

Learned Mary Graves was taken to the hospital today. Couldn’t go to see her because I left my car to have it serviced. Writers Club meeting at Dr. Winslow’s this evening.

 

May 18, 1955

Threatened rain all day. Sprinkled a little early this evening; then began to rain in earnest. I wanted to go to see Miss Graves, but didn’t because I had my car washed yesterday for a week end trip and hated to get it spotted up.

 

May 19, 1955

Rained hard all night and all day today – about 5½ in. in all. Rain all over the state. Some rivers flooding. We had our Bible class tonight – all ten members present in spite of (perhaps because of) the rain. Everybody happy. Had party at noon for Colleen McMullen, who is quitting.

 

May 20, 1955

Today I had planned to drive over to Muskogee to pick up Mrs. Foreman and take her on a trip to Grand Lake, but it rained all night and all day so I didn’t. Floods in places, but it is filling ponds and lakes with much needed water.

 

May 21, 1955

No rain today – or rather just one small sprinkle. It threatened but didn’t actually rain. The sun shone part of the time. Everything lovely. I went to the hospital to see Mrs. Graves. She still has that muscle spasm.

 

May 22, 1955

I had asked Anna Oursler to teach my S.S. class because I had expected to be with Mrs. Foreman, so hating to take it back I drove to Marshall to church. Grace Hammond went along. In the evening John and Estelle Melton took me for interview with “Pistol Pete” at Perkins then dinner at Wellston on the Turner Turnpike. Lovely time. Beautiful bright day.

 

May 23, 1955

Rained this morning. I am getting loose ends all caught up so Al Juhlin can take up my work June 1.

 

May 24, 1955

Went this evening to a shower at Venita Arrington’s for Marguerite Engle, who will marry Wilburn Gilmore June 3. She is a lovely woman. I do not know him. Learned that Savoie Lottinville’s wife was buried today. So sad.

 

May 25, 1955

Rained a little this morning. Thunderous cloud coming up the evening. I learned that Will Ransom died today. He did wonderful art work on my books. I have a troublesome cold.

 

May 26, 1955

Last night a tornado ripped thru Blackwell killing a number of people and demolished a little town across the line in Kansas. Later – Udall wiped it out. 79 killed. I spent the evening with Anna and Bess Boyce, who are here visiting Wallace’s family. I took them to dinner in the Union Coffee Shop and then they came to my apartment.

 

May 27, 1955

The Phi Kappa Phi had their banquet an initiation this evening, and I spoke. I had taken my job rather seriously and had written it all out. It went off fairly well. After I got home I had an attack of migraine.

 

May 28, 1955

Went in the afternoon to the wedding of Ruby Egger (who looked beautiful) and a fine looking boy named Moore. It was in the Catholic church. Spent the evening with Anna Wright, who is here to see her nephew, Floyd Plummer, graduate. This morning dashed to Marshall and decorated graves.

 

May 29, 1955

Learned Poe Williams is leaving. I am not sorry for he is a poor preacher & the students need a good one. I heard his farewell sermon which was better than usual. Took Anna over campus. Then alumni dinner and reception in P.M. Baccalaureate service in evening. Then I took Ann and Floyd and his parents through the library. Lovely cool bright day – cap & gown comfortable.

 

May 30, 1955

Commencement this morning – first time I ever remember wearing cap and gown without sweltering. In afternoon I worked in my office clearing my desk of neglected accumulation. I am rather tired.

 

May 31, 1955

Worked part of the time in the map dept. but Al Juhlin has everything in such perfect readiness to start tomorrow that I thought I was sort of in the way so left. I have had this work seven years and feel a little sad about ending it. But it is a wonderful arrangement to give it to Al, who will do it so well. I went to Writers Club.

 

June 1, 1955

Tired as I always am after Writers’ Club. (We stay up too late.) I am now working in my own office on the fifth floor. Al has the maps and he has made a very efficient attractive arrangement of the furniture so several of his duties will be focused there.

 

June 2, 1955

I am working on a bibliography for the church women’s study course I am to teach. This evening Pearl Boyce visited me.

 

June 3, 1955

Worked more my bibliography. Had dinner at Helen Poulton’s. Other guests, Elizabeth Thomas and Mrs. Geel. Then went to very wedding at Presbyterian church – Marguerite Engel and Wilburn Gilmore.

 

June 4, 1955

I am getting a lot done these days since I am not working on maps. This evening I went to see Mary Graves who is home from the hospital but not all well. We are having wonderful cool weather – bright sun, some clouds.

 

June 5, 1955

Heard new preacher this morning. I think he may turn out pretty well. Anyhow better than Mr. Williams. This afternoon was the wedding of my beloved Pat Hare and Sharon Heckendorn, who were in my S.S. 2 yrs. ago & started courting then. She was beautiful and he looked so handsome and fine. God bless them. The Juhlins were here a little while this P.M.

 

June 6, 1955

The library group had a farewell dinner for me this evening – held prematurely before Mr. Low leaves for Mich. The party was not a surprise. And I expected some pleasant gift as a remembrance – but they overwhelmed me by a piece of masonite luggage so fine I can hardly believe it is mine. I am so grateful to them.

 

June 7, 1955

This P.M. I drove over to Muskogee to take Mrs. Foreman on a trip I have planned for almost a year. It was a lovely drive over here. Nice bright day – everything green and beautiful. There were clouds coming up on Stillwater from the west but I outran them and it is crystal clear here. Mrs. F. looks very thin. How I love her.

 

June 8, 1955

Mrs. F. & I started about 9 A.M. drove thru Tahlequah & up the lovely Illinois River & thru the hills to Jay. Spent the P.M. driving to Grove up to Cayuga and across Grand L. on the Sailboat Bridge. Took Winona Nelson & her father Mrs. Starr along. Had dinner at the Nelsons’; then Mr. N. took us out to Stand Watie’s house. Cool lovely day – even cold this evening – showers all around but missed us. We are at Blue Jay Tourist Cont.

 

June 9, 1955

Came back by Kansas – interesting visit to Oaks Mission & the Vammens. Locust Grove, where we saw Willard Stone, his happy-sensible wife & seven beautiful children. Just outside Muskogee stopped at Nettie Wheeler’s shop and Mrs. F. saw a beautiful Mexican coat – and of course (bless her!) she bought it for me. (I am using my new suit case on this trip also.) Weather really cold. We have a fire and need it.

 

June 10, 1955

Came back to Stillwater this morning. Ran into one light shower. Surprised to find how little rain fell here. Very cold day. Gave me a chance to wear my lovely new wrap to work this P.M. Have a fire in my apartment this evening.

 

June 11, 1955

Very cold day. I need all the time at home. Paper says about 51ᵒ. Looking above I can see how great a mercy it was my dear little mother found relief. If I I shall always be sorry I did not stay by her in those last nightmarish days – at le especially that last night. I did not know she was dying. The doctor had seen her so recently and thought she was as well as ever. Thought she might live that way for months.

 

June 12, 1955

Cold day – fire needed all day except when the sun was brightest in P.M. I went to church (wore my lovely new coat) and heard a very fine sermon. I am so thankful these students at last have a good preacher. This P.M. I took Elizabeth Thomas, Mrs. Geel & the Poulsons over the Irving route from Yale on The country is beautiful. When the car stopped it got warm in the sun. Cold this evening.

 

June 13, 1955

Rained last night but I think not much water fell. Lovely cool day. I had lunch with the Hammonds’. Their regal lilies are beautiful.

 

June 14, 1955

Still cool. I have never seen the magnolia blooms on the campus as lovely as they are this year. Every tiny tree has several of the great rich blooms – and the big trees are breathtaking. I wish Mother could see them.

 

June 15, 1955

I am working on the course on “Indian Americans” I am to teach at the Disciples’ woman’s

retreat next week. Still cool weather.

 

June 16, 1955

Rain last night but light shower I think. Today was warmish but not unpleasant. This evening I went to the Bible class at the Garretts’.

 

June 17, 1955

It rained last night – hard I think tho’ I did not wake – and has been cool all day. It is thundering now. I have worn the lovely jacket Mrs. Foreman gave me every single day since I got it except yesterday.

 

June 18, 1955

Very heavy rain last night – tornado warning, etc. but I slept through it. Met three very fine people today – Orris Carter, now of OU, and his parents of Tulsa. I shall know them enjoy knowing them from now on.

 

June 19, 1955

Rained again last night – hard I think. Nice and cool today. I went to church. Loafed the rest of the day.

 

June 20, 1955

No rain last night – bright and warmish today. Nothing in particular happened.

 

June 21, 1955

I went to Camp Redlands this P.M. where I am to teach a course in “Indian Americans” to some of the woman’s society leaders in the Disciples Church. About fifty here – fine women. Winnie Branen is one. Very hot sultry day – almost unbearable this evening at the meeting in the mess hall.

 

June 22, 1955

I taught my class this morning. I shall have one hour each morning for three mornings. It was not so hot today. Everything is green and lovely out here. The mocking bird sang all night – others all day. We had a very hard rain this evening. Lights went off and we had to find our cabins in the dark.

 

June 23, 1955

I am learning to love this group in a way I should not have believed possible in three days. They are so alert, so earnest, so sincere. Nice cool day – lovely landscape.

 

June 24, 1955

We broke up after lunch today and I came back to Stillwater. A little rain fell just before dawn but not much – and I drove back in a dust storm. Found surprising letter from H. Leake. He is going into Episcopal ministry. Power to him.

 

June 25, 1955

Hot day. I worked at various odds and ends at the library.

 

June 26, 1955

Heard good sermon this morning. Took lunch at the Boyces. Then Pearl went with me to Marshall to take back winter quilts and bring back some boxes for packing. Heard dreadful news at Marshall. Arthur Beeby buried today. Hung himself in the barn. Had been having terrible pain in head. He would never have done it if he had not been somehow ill. Hot day.

 

June 27, 1955

Not so hot – cool this evening. I have been thinking all day of Arthur Beeby and his family. Fine, intelligent, upright, happy people. I know Arthur had no cause, and that he had too much character to do it of himself. There must have been a tumor or something pressing on his brain.

 

June 28, 1955

Lovely cool day – cloudy part of the time. But at about 3 P.M. the electricity and air conditioning went off in the library. It was O.K. till 5 but will be dreadful tomorrow. It will be several days before it can be repaired. I got some white shoes – cost 7 – also a parasol – cost $3.

 

June 29, 1955

Surprise! The air conditioning was on as usual this morning. This evening the Garretts, Mary Graves & I ate together at Cliff’s. Then on the spur of the moment went for a drive and never stopped until under Mary’s guidance we visited Irving’s camp on Wildhorse Creek. I had never seen it. Lovely place.

 

June 30, 1955

Last night [I think this is right date – am making late entry.] I slept all night without my blanket. First time this summer. I have been using it towards morning. Bible reading class at Anna Oursler’s this evening. Very fine.

 

July 1, 1955

I had nice luncheon with Elsie Shoemaker. This evening the Garretts, Mary, & I (this time with me as guide) visited Irving Castle and ate a picnic lunch out there. Lovely countryside. The paper says this was the coolest June in Okla. since 1903. I remember frost May 30, 1903 – forget about June.

 

July 2, 1955

Everyone has gone home for holiday week end but I worked & pretty hard in the library all day. This evening Miss Long took me to dinner at Cliff’s. Then I took her thru the park. Lovely petunias and roses. Arbor vitae all killed by late freeze.

 

July 3, 1955

I went to church this morning and heard a good sermon by our new minister, Mr. Bush. Wrote letters etc. in P.M. Learned dear Mr. Hastings had a heart attack last night. Lois thought he was dead. Her brother is away & she needs him.

 

July 4, 1955

I worked all day at the library. I have wanted to help Lois with her father but she says it would make him think he is ill if I were to stay with him. But he sent word he wanted to see me. I found him quite feeble but O.K. He has a MS he wants me to type. He promised to read it at the Methodist brotherhood but he says he will never do it now so wants it shape for someone to read.

 

July 5, 1955

I typed Mr. Hasting’s MS today and when I took it to him he was sitting in the yard. He was in good spirits but feeble. It rained all morning but not much water fell. Lois was so glad to get the MS copied that perhaps I helped her after all.

 

July 6, 1955

Nothing much happened except that I went to a business meeting of Phi Kappa Phi. The weather is getting hot but it is still a good summer.

 

July 7, 1955

I bought the ticket for my Kansas-Texas trip to teach in mission schools. Also I went to Perkins to have Dr. Freed check me. He found me a perfect human being! Hot day, but it has not reached 100 yet this year. Went to Bible class & reception at the parsonage.

 

July 8, 1955

Not so hot today. Nothing in particular happened.

 

July 9, 1955

I went to visit Mr. Hastings on July 9, feeling sure I should never see that dear old man on this earth again. (It turned out that way for he died on Tues. July 12. He even made an entry in his diary for every day he lived. His July 9 entry told of my visit. His July 12 entry said they had got a cable gram saying his missionary daughter from Brazil

 

July 10, 1955

would be in O.C. “tomorrow,” & that he had passed a good day on the couch. Then his son and Lois helped him to bed and he was lying there conversing and stopped in the midst of a sentence. His daughter did arrive the next day, very sensible, no useless regret at not arriving in tln time.) On July 10 I went to church, had an early dinner at the Boyces then

 

July 11, 1955

they took me to Perry where I took the train. I stayed overnight in Lawrence with a fine Methodist couple named Stewart. On July 11 Dr. & Mrs. Latimer took his wife and me to Baldwin where we went to work at the school. He took me around the beautiful K.U. campus before we left. He is a retired

 

July 12, 1955

faculty member in the medical school. From July 11 through July 15 I worked hard at the school. The requirements are ten fifty-minute periods, which meant two hours at a stretch with a breathing spell between. I

 

July 13, 1955

was greatly cheered by the intelligent alert spirit of the women and the concern they showed over the present destructive policy in Indian administration. The weather was hot, but not hot enough to lower the efficiency of the school. The Baker campus is beautiful, with great

 

July 14, 1955

trees, an old school, poor but greatly loved. I never tasted as good food as they served. It was very dry in Kansas – worse than Okla. – till we passed Emporia. Then everything became miraculously lush and green, but the heat was sultry and hard to take. The

 

July 15, 1955

town and the school went their separate ways and paid no attention to us. I should have liked to learn more of their history – pre-Civil War. Ida and Ralph Arrington drove up to visit my one morning. Ida has gained weight and looks wonderful. On Friday the school closed but

 

July 16, 1955

the teachers and officers stayed over for a Wesleyan Service Guild meeting on Sat. That meant a new group of women. I condensed my course into one hour’s lecture Sat. P.M., but it was so hot it was a total loss. I couldn’t speak and they couldn’t listen. On Sat. (July 16) evening Dr. Latimer came

 

July 17, 1955

after us. They showed me more of the K.U. campus (fine Wesley Found. bldg. in perfect location) – also Haskell. Then they took me to the train. I reached Ft. Worth Sun. morning early, then took bus for Stephenville. It had rained hard at Fort Worth, rained more on the way. Cool

 

July 18, 1955

lovely weather. I reached Stephenville before noon, very tired, & spent a very restful day in the dormitory. Liked Mrs. Todd, the hostess & dean of women very much. Miss Glover of the college Eng. dept. took me for a drive. I was greatly impressed with the fine spirit of the college and its interest in

 

July 19, 1955

our school of missions. Same set-up as in Kansas – Monday July 18 thru Friday, July 22. The weather was delightful. The president attended our assemblies & he & his wife gave a reception for us at their home. The library arranged a special reserve for us and

 

July 20, 1955

added interest through pottery, painting, etc. The women showed the same alert interest and concern, but as the Kansans, but they proved to be much younger and prettier. In fact they were the prettiest group of women I

 

July 21, 1955

have ever seen anywhere, so pretty I cast about for the reason. Some more Texas superiority? Just the right combination of minerals in the soil and a climate just warm enough and moist (not very) enough? I really marveled at

 

July 22, 1955

their beauty. On the afternoon of July 22 I took a bus for Coleman to visit my beloved Jean Day Horne and her husband and children, who live on a ranch southwest of town. This has been in the center of a drouth [sic] area for more years than I can count. It has rained some this summer

 

July 23, 1955

but the grass is gone, every spear, and it is not going to come back. Mr. Horne has reseeded it and it was too dry for the seed to come up, but the only thing is to try it again. He is buying hay from Okla. for his cattle right in the grazing season. Their beautiful live oak

 

July 24, 1955

grove died. When one realizes that these trees are very old and the grass thousands of years older, the condition is frightening. On Sun. July 24 Jean took the children to SS and we drove over Coleman. In the P.M. Mr. Horne’s mother and another lady came out & we had coffee. The Horne children are darlings (Bobby 4½, Marilyn 3½) and Jean is charming and

 

July 25, 1955

bright and fine. Her husband is a very fine person. They have made a good life in spite of the drought. I took an early bus Monday July 25, took the train at Ft. Worth & reached Perry at 7 P.M., where the Boyces met me and took me back to

 

July 26, 1955

Stillwater. I inquired at once about Mr. Hastings and learned of his death. I was very busy at Stillwater all through the week of July 26-30. I called on the Hastings of course, found them in tears but with the

 

July 27, 1955

feeling that the dear old man’s life had been perfect right up to the last diary entry and conversation. I had much correspondence to attend to and details to finish up my work at the library. On July 30 I packed my books, emptied

 

July 28, 1955

my desk, etc. ready to vacate my office. I left with quite a feeling of sadness. I have been very happy for the whole eight years with the library staff, a most wonderful group of people. I have even loved

 

July 29, 1955

my maps, putting them in their trays like putting children to bed. And I loved my beautiful desk and my perfectly arranged office. I had never in my life worked in such perfect physical surroundings as I had

 

July 30, 1955

for the two years and a half I was in that new building. I loved everything about it. Also I shall miss the convenience of constant library service. But it seems better on the whole for me to return to Marshall for my retired years. During the week I attended a library picnic

 

July 31, 1955

On Thurs. & the Bible class, postponed to Fri. (I shall miss the class, too.) On Sun. July 31 I went to church. Then I had the three Hastings women as my luncheon guests at the Student Union. Oh yes, on Sat. I had dessert with the Hammonds.) Then in the evening I had a wonderful surprise. The

 

August 1, 1955

Leakes came for Stillwater business and I had a visit with them. On August 1 I started packing. (And how I hate it!) Good Mrs. Allnut [?] said I could wait till today because nobody will be using the room this month. I finished

 

August 2, 1955

packing Tues. Aug. 2 and Mr. Moore brought me over. He had to load my office and apartment furnishings both. I ate dinner with the Boyces. So nice of them for I was low on food and dishes. We got to Marshall in the

 

August 3, 1955

middle of the afternoon. I had never seen the house so dirty. Last summer was so terribly dry and dusty. I worked as hard as I could getting things in order. It was hard in this hot weather – just moderately

 

August 4, 1955

hot – not like last year. I started with the closets for they had never been straightened up since that terrible hasty break-up whe two years ago when I had to take my mother away. It was not nearly so sad a rearranging as

 

August 5, 1955

it had been then; for then I had to go into all her precious possessions as she had so neatly arranged them knowing she would never see them again. This time it was only going through my own quick sketchy arranging of her things when I moved her two years ago. Even so it was hard. Also I found the hot weather a bad time for

 

August 6, 1955

working on high shelves. After I got the closets straight I started unpacking and cleaning as I went. I got the southeast bedroom (which I shall use for mine) clean and finished Saturday evening. I did not get the rest of the house done until the following Wed. or Thurs. Then I

 

August 7, 1955

cleaned the cellar and got Mr. Weber to haul off a wagon load of fruit jars. I though they should be thrown away because when the basement was flooded (because I turned the cut-off wrong when I left two years ago) they floated around and got dirty lime on

 

August 8, 1955

the hard water deposited dirty mineral on them and I couldn’t scour it off. On Aug. 7 I went to church and the Brysons invited me home to dinner and I had a nice visit with them. Our pastor is away but a retired minister from Perry (a Mr. Hutchins) preached a good sermon.

 

August 9, 1955

Sunday afternoon I called on dear Mrs. Overton, who has not recovered from a stroke and Mrs. Darling who is ill. Mrs. Overton was so glad to see me I made up my mind I would go to see her often, and I did go two more times that week. Shortly after I got home Mr. Adams had a stroke

 

August 10, 1955

and is very low. They finally took him to the hospital at Perry. Also they took Mrs. Darling to the hospital at Enid, where they found she had diabetes. After I got the house straightened up (I think it was Friday) Mr. Congdon made me a long afternoon visit and later the same

 

August 11, 1955

afternoon the Berrys from Stillwater dropped in. I was so happy to see the Berrys. I asked about poor little brave Mrs. Wallen and learned that she died on June 11 (or was it June 12? I think it was 11.) exactly one year after my mother. I was so glad to know she had been

 

August 12, 1955

released from the suffering she has endured so patiently. Getting worse all the time. Her poor little bones were so brittle they broke even in handling her. I think it started twenty years ago.

 

August 13, 1955

I talked to August Burchardt about getting a furnace. In the afternoon I cleared my desk of accumulated letters. Since my house is finally in shape I enjoy my record player evenings.

 

August 14, 1955

I enjoyed church so much today. It was a lovely cool morning. (Later got hot in the sun.) Mr. Hutchins preached a good sermon – also I enjoyed the S.S. class with Della as teacher. In the P.M. I brought Mrs. H up here and she ate supper with me. Then we went for a drive. John Melton called and invited me to go to Anadarko with them tomorrow.

 

August 15, 1955

John & Estelle Melton came by this P.M. and took me to Anadarko Indian Exposition. We also saw the work already done on “Indian City,” a Pawnee earth lodges, Caddo houses, Apache Wickiups, and Wichita grass houses. Young Indian guides to explain. It was all an unforgettable experience. Came back to Ranger Court south of El Reno to spend night.

 

August 16, 1955

 

We drove back this morning – got here about ten. The Meltons left me and went on to Stillwater. I was a little tired but worked some in sorting books, etc. in the porch closet.

 

August 17, 1955

Mr. Weber patched the culvert on my drive. The boards had rotted and the car broke through. I went to WSCS at Mrs. Don Cassiday’s. Nice program. Then Mrs. Draper and I took Mother’s shoes to Mrs. Longs, whose husband is blind. They fit. I got a new battery of Mr. Draper.

 

August 18, 1955

I went to Enid to get my eyes tested. Found they required exactly the glasses I already have. Bought me a new dress to wear when I speak at K.C. Wanted one not so summery as I have been wearing and yet cool. Cost $19.90. When I got ready to start to Enid I found a tire down. (staple in it) – first time since I bought the car 2 yrs. ago.

 

August 19, 1955

I worked most of the day altering my dress. It was 16 instead of 14½, which meant it had to be taken in at the waist and the skirt shortened. Mrs. Lyons called.

 

August 20, 1955

The minister and his wife called this morning. We are very fortunate to have them here. This is their second year with us. The evening Claudia Ahrnsbrak spent the evening with me. I got the porch closet and back porch cleaned up.

 

August 21, 1955

Went to SS and church this morning – heard a fine sermon. In P.M. called briefly on the Branens, the August Burchardts (the young couple and baby away), and poor sick Mrs. Overton. Hotter day than usual – or perhaps the wind was in the wrong direction.

 

August 22, 1955

We had a pleasant shower at noon .7 inch. There was no cloud but a thunder cap, but it kept coming. I hoed a little in the “flower” garden (only one rose bush ad 5 puny peonies left) – this evening – found it nice and wet. August Burchardt and another man came and we planned my furnace.

 

August 23, 1955

I drove to Hennessey and got a tooth filled. Also bought some curtain material for the kitchen and hall closet & blinds for same. Called on the Burchardts – found Jane and baby at home – beautiful baby. The Boyces had car trouble on 51 & so called on me while waiting for a tow from Stillwater. Got half the flower garden hoed.

 

August 24, 1955

Finished hoeing the “flower” garden this morning. Anyhow the fresh clean soil looks nice and one brave standing cypress is full of blooms. It was barely living when I came home but it responds to the water I have been giving it.

 

August 25, 1955

[Account of trip written after my return.] I hardly remember what I did this day. Got ready for my trip. I think I cleaned up part of the kitchen cabinet, but didn’t get it finished.

 

August 26, 1955

Drove to Enid – left my car at Esther Porter’s. Took the train for K.C., where I am to speak Tuesday – went early to visit cousins. Met at station by Burton, Dorine, Nellie. George and Willa & Willa’s nice fat baby came in and visited.

 

August 27, 1955

I can’t remember what we did today except that in the evening we had a very pleasant picnic lunch in one of the parks – an attractive little park – Burton & Dorine, Nellie and George and I. We went in George’s car.

 

August 28, 1955

I selfishly went with Burton out in the country to get Dorine’s parents, the Harrisons, while Dorine prepared a lovely dinner. Then in the evening we all took them back home. Stopped briefly at Dorine’s sister’s (Juanita Young), met Mr. Young. Their 2½ -year-old Sandy had been ill all night. I hope nothing serious.

 

August 29, 1955

It rained last night and this morning [I think this was the day]. I was interviewed on T.V. I think it went off fairly well. Burton & Dorine (bless them) had a corsage sent to me. They enjoyed being in the studio. In the evening we all went to Shirley’s for dinner – Shirley’s babies are very sweet. [Willa and her baby, Joyce, Pearl, Burton & Dorine, Geo. & Nellie, and I.]

 

August 30, 1955

This is the day I came up here for – to speak to the United Council of Church Women. There was a good-sized audience. In fact the main floor of the sanctuary was comfortably full. Burton & Dorine, Nellie & George, and Pearl were there dressed fit to kill. I was so proud of them. I was not too well pleased with my speech, but perhaps it was not too bad.

 

August 31, 1955

I believe this was the day – yes, I know it was – when Burton took me through the post office. It was very interesting. I met his boss, who is very fine, and several other men he works with. I think this was the day Burton and Dorine & Geo. & Nellie showed me the city by night from the World War I memorial, then the pioneer mother and the famous Scout statue.

 

September 1, 1955

Burton and Dorine took me over to Pearl’s and Pearl and I talked our heads off. Shirley came in the evening with her two babies and we all went to an ice cream social at their church – also an invalid woman Pearl loves.

 

September 2, 1955

Spent all day talking a blue streak with Pearl. Pearl looks wonderful – prettier than I have seen her since she was a young girl. Shirley brought the babies and left spent the evening. She is a lovely little mother. Judy is an unusual child and 9½ - month’s old Terry is a little angel. Shirley’s husband works till about midnight.

 

September 3, 1955

Pearl and I talked till late afternoon. Then Burton and Dorine came after me. (Burton always runs a taxi for me.) Then I drove Don’s (Don Dehn) car to take Nellie and Caroline to the “Fish and Chips” where Nellie works and we had dinner. I hardly felt up to driving it to Willa’s so Don took the car and Willa came and took Nellie, Caroline and me to her cute little house. This was my only glimpse of Don. He is fine.

 

September 4, 1955

We went out to the Harrisons for one of Mrs. H’s delicious country dinners. In the afternoon Burton took us all to see a new lake they are making. The Youngs went to the ball game and left Sandy with us. She is 2½ - a lovely dark child, very like Dorine.

 

September 5, 1955

We went to the pa park and saw the statues by daylight, also got view of city from top of World War I memorial. Nellie & Geo., the Halsteads, & I. Then we went to the African veldt at Swope park where we saw a 15-day-old zebra. Lovely little thing with all a colt’s fuzzy innocence and the beautiful stripes besides. Met Shirley’s family there and we found a lovely place and had a happy picnic supper.

 

September 6, 1955

Burton and Dorine took me to the 8:35 train. I reached Enid at 3. Am spending the night at Esther Porter’s. Having a fine visit. It is very dry here – no rain since I left. Things are green and lovely in K.C. but most of Kansas I saw is scorched.

 

September 7, 1955

Esther and I went down town and I bought a new suit and hat. I really jarred loose and spent more than I should. $60 for suit - $8 for hat. I didn’t even need the hat but it looked so well with the suit I couldn’t resist. We went to the hospital to see Leslie Mellick. Came home in late P.M. – found Mr. Adams died soon after I left.

 

September 8, 1955

My house was getting pretty dusty when I left and the past week didn’t help it so I cleaned it today. The Websters called – also several people came on various business. I made all the diary entries for my trip – hope I didn’t make any mistakes.

 

September 9, 1955

Cleaned up my desk of accumulated mail, etc. Mrs. Adams came back home today (or possibly yesterday) from a visit with her daughter. She came to see me and spent an hour so more here. She looks fine, smiles, etc. but tears are just beneath the surface. I will stay with her at night for a while.

 

September 10, 1955

Stayed last night with Mrs. Adams – woke to the sound of thunder. It showered off and on all forenoon – not much water. I worked on kitchen curtains – all done but the tie-backs. This evening the Meltons (bless them) stopped on their way back from Colo. and left me a dishpanful [sic] of fruit and vegetables.

 

September 11, 1955

Cold night and cool day. I enjoyed church and S.S. (Wore a light suit) In the P.M. called on the sick – Mrs. Overton, Mrs. Whiteside, Mrs. Hawkins (well as usual but always in a pitiable condition) – also took Sadie and drove in the country. I am staying these nights with Mrs. Adams.

 

September 12, 1955

Finished and put up the curtains (at least I think so – delayed making entry. Very pretty.

 

September 13, 1955

Went to luncheon meeting of the Marshall Womans Club out at Elsie Schafer’s. Had wonderful time. Hot day. Hard hot wind. But all our nights are cool.

 

September 14, 1955

Drove to Midwest City for 9:30 breakfast at Disciples Church there. Spoke on Indian policy. Spent day in the home of the Spillmans (fine family, fine children, Gene, Patricia Joey). Then went to Nicoma Park and spoke at evening meeting. Staying with Mrs. Hicks near Choctaw

 

September 15, 1955

Drove to El Reno – ate lunch in lovely home of Frances Harrison. Met Katherine Jordan there. Spoke in P.M. in Disciples’ Church – Methodists invited. Drove home – reached it about 6. Hot day. hot winds.

 

September 16, 1955

Hoped a man would come and put in my telephone but he remained invisible.

 

September 17, 1955

[No entry for 1955]

 

September 18, 1955

Went to church (fine sermon) Della absent so I taught S.S. class. In P.M. called on new young couple (Glen & Pat Miller), Ethel Orr, Mrs. Overton, & Mrs. Hawkins. In evening went to meeting at church to work for county local option law on beer.

 

September 19, 1955

Rained most of the forenoon – once rather hard – but not much water fell. Mrs. Whiteside had a stroke this afternoon – is very low, poor old soul. Doit Hearn died in Missouri.

 

September 20, 1955

Mrs. Whiteside died last night. drove to O.C. this morning and spoke twice at First Christian Church to the Xn Woman’s Fellowship at a luncheon meeting, to the guild at a dinner meeting. Spent P.M. with Mrs. Goodwin; will spend night with Dorothy Sharp. Also was with Beulah Wilson. Very hot day.

 

September 21, 1955

Terribly hot day. I called on Mrs. Newlin this morning – found her crippled and ill from a fall, almost blind from cataracts. I drove to Kingfisher in forenoon – ate lunch with Vivian Smith, met Dr. Smith. Fine couple. They took comfortable room for me at tourist court. In evening I spoke to C.W.F. & many visitors from other churches. Too hot to speak well. Met Mrs. Taylor & Mrs. Conn – saw Lula Polsley.

 

September 22, 1955

Ate breakfast with Iris Dean – met her husband and two fine sons. Left at eight. It sp rained all the way – didn’t make ground wet, but slick pavement and I was in a hurry because I thought Mr. Misar would be here to put in my furnace – but he didn’t come. He is a farmer and was busy at home.

 

September 23, 1955

I went went to Mrs. Whiteside’s funeral this morning. The rest of the day I watched for the telephone man but he didn’t appear. I have been waiting for that phone nearly two months. Cloudy day – raining around but not here.

 

September 24, 1955

The telephone man actually came and now I have a telephone. Mr. Misar also came and worked all day on the furnace. The house is a mess of course but I am glad to get it started. Cold cloudy day. Raining softly this evening.

 

September 25, 1955

Rained 1.1 inches by Dick Clark’s gauge last night, then off and on all forenoon. Good church attendance for rainy day. I left before S.S. to get ready for trip to City. Left in rain at 121 1:30. It rained hard after I got here. Staying at Dorothy Holcomb’s. Spoke this evening at Lincoln Terrace Xn Church. Good crowd came out in pouring rain.

 

September 26, 1955

Drove in pouring rain all the way from O.C. to Marshall. Reached here at 10:30. Rain stopped soon as I got here. Not so much here as in O.C. but all went into soil. Everybody jubilant. Mr. Misar ill and could not work today – house in mess. Hole in wall but no furnace. I used electric heater to warm house.

 

September 27, 1955

Brief shower this morning. Mr. Misar was well enough to work this afternoon. I went to the Woman’s Club at Mrs. Featheringill’s

 

September 28, 1955

Mr. Misar worked all day. It rained some this forenoon, then got quite warm. Winnie Branen and I went to Guthrie, where I spoke at a luncheon meeting of the Woman’s Fellowship at the Disciples Church. Grace Goodman there also and we three had a drink together in the drug store.

 

September 29, 1955

Mr. Misar finished the furnace at noon. I cleaned the three north rooms in the afternoon. They look very nice. The south part of the house is still torn up. Warm day.

 

September 30, 1955

Took Mrs. Hawkins to Enid to have Dr. Vandever examine her eyes. Pearl Burchardt went along to help her out of the car, etc. He found a bad ab abcess [sic] on her eyeball – sight of that one can never be restored. He gave her some prescriptions and I am to treat her eyes twice a day. Cool cloudy day. I finished cleaning the house. Planted some tulips.

 

October 1, 1955

Cool, cloudy day, Robert Blaney came and put in two extra wall sockets I had been needing. It didn’t create much of a mess in my recently cleaned house.

 

October 2, 1955

Rained all day. Even so there was a good crowd at church & S.S. World communion Sunday – very fine service. Pearl Burchardt and I took dinner with Mrs. Hawkins. Then I came home and enjoyed my records. Blessed be the man who invented rain coats and galoshes.

 

October 3, 1955

More rain. They are having destructive floods all around, but here it just comes down steadily and soaks in. I have decided to get an automatic water heater. I wrote a review of Francis Hines’ The Nez Perces for N.Y. Times today. (450 words – $45.)

 

October 4, 1955

Rained all night last night and all forenoon – no thunder or wind or driving downpour – just steady, good rain. Cleared a little this forenoon, but at it again this evening. Some Gauges say 5 in. since Sunday morning. I have considerable tramping in it – my two daily trips for Mrs. H’s eyes and my two to stay overnight with Mrs. Adams. Glad for my furnace.

 

October 5, 1955

Cleared this morning. Beautiful warm day. I spoke on Indian study at Xn church here. Fine audience – guests from all Marshall churches, also Covington, Lovell, & Crescent. They had a nice tea at the close. Also they gave me a lovely rayon slip.

 

October 6, 1955

Cool day. I took all the books out of my bookcase and moved it, same, with one of my filing cabinets. Big job. Then I rearranged all the furniture in my study. It took all day, but I like it very much.

 

October 7, 1955

My furnace controls are set wrong. They go off before the house is warm. It was 65ᵒ all morning. I stood it the first hour, then became almost ill. Told August Burchardt and he & Joe Misar & man from office worked on it. It warmed up outside so it was comfortable this afternoon. Bright crisp day.

 

October 8, 1955

Bright crisp day. My furnace is improved but still goes off so the room won’t warm above 70ᵒ. I can stand that till August is less busy. Mrs. Stuerke, Winnie Branen, & Elsie Schaefer were here this P.M. & we all worked on our club program for Tuesday.

 

October 9, 1955

I went to church (fine sermon) and S.S. where I taught a wonderful group of young people whose teacher was absent. In the P.M. I took the Orrs over to see the Stillwater campus and library. Mr. Orr was in the seventh heaven at the sight of all those books. Lovely bright day. Grass and trees beautifully green.

 

October 10, 1955

Mrs. Hawkins was getting so she could hardly see at all so I took her to Enid again (with Pearl to help). The dr. found an absess [sic] forming on her good eye. He was very discouraged but gave her a prescription to try to stop it. The other is getting better – but the sight is about gone.

 

October 11, 1955

Very hot day. This P.M. I went to Marshall Woman’s Club meeting at Mrs. Fox’s. I was on the program so had to hustle, for I am due in Ft. Worth tomorrow Sid Oliver with school bus backed into my parked car. He was very nice, said he would fix it. Soon as meeting was over I drove to Guthrie & am staying with Grace Goodman. I left my car at a garage to have dent removed. Met Margaret Dial at Grace’s.

 

October 12, 1955

Took train at 8:07 – reached Ft. Worth at 12:55. Staying with the Dale Croppers. Wonderful family, 3 fine boys: Mike 14, Tommy nearly 5, Ken in middle. Spoke at a family night supper meeting at Arlington Heights Meth church. It went off well. Then the Croppers showed me all of Ft. Worth – drove till 11:30. Day so hot I wore a summer dress.

 

October 13, 1955

Mrs. Cropper took me out to see some Santa Gertrudis cattle. They were all out of sight but we found 2 young bulls in a lot. I took the train at 2, and reached Guthrie at 6:30. Am at Grace’s again. It is cooler today – bright and lovely. This trip was one of the pleasantest I ever had. I like the Croppers so much.

 

October 14, 1955

I picked up my car (dent all gone) and drove back this morning. Pleasant day but I needed a light coat. Sort of wasted the day, was a little tired and lazy also.

 

October 15, 1955

I didn’t do much today either. Worked at some odds and ends.

 

October 16, 1955

I drove to Guthrie and Mrs. Le Hew took Grace Goodman and me to the Presbyterian Church and with Dr. Le Hew & Elton, Jr. took us to dinner, then out to their beautiful house. I visited the rest of the P.M. with Grace. The weather is beautiful, grass & trees so lush and green as in spring.

 

October 17, 1955

A little cooler today. I took Mrs. H. to see the dr. at Enid. He found her eyes better. In the P.M. Grace & Mrs. Le Hew, who also went to Enid, stopped to visit with me. I had a very pleasant visit. Just as I turned to lock the door as I started to spend the night with Mrs. Adams an attack of migraine hit me. First for 2½ years.

 

October 18, 1955

Very light frost visible on roofs this morning. (It could have frosted yesterday without my seeing it) I drove to the City, spoke at luncheon meeting at Uni. Place Xn Church I at their guild in the evening, also had a recorded radio interview in the P.M. Got through pretty well in spite of last night’s migraine, but feel a cold coming on. Am staying at Mrs. Holcombe’s, mother of Geneva Wise.

 

October 19, 1955

Drove home this morning, cooked my dinner and then to Stillwater this P.M. Did some things in town and spoke to women (WSCS & guild) at Methodist church this evening. I got through O.K. though I feel worse than I did yesterday. My cold is making me really ill. These last two days have been hard since my migraine attack. Staying with Geneva Wise.

 

October 20, 1955

I left my car to have antifreeze put in and some pics to be framed while I spent morning in Library. I enjoyed it and planned to spend all day there, but kept feeling worse, so came home early in P.M. Went right to bed. Am really ill with a cold.

 

October 21, 1955

I stayed in bed all day except to prepare a little soup, etc. for myself. My suitcase, hat, etc. are still in the car; I didn’t bother to unload yesterday. I did take my two trips for Mrs. Hawkins’ eyes. Pearl Burchardt brought me my mail and some groceries. I was supposed to attend a club meeting in Medford today.

 

October 22, 1955

Woke up much better, but so weak I knew I should not take a trip to Okemah tomorrow to speak in John Gingerich’s church, and so I called John. He was very nice. This afternoon needing some employment I started sorting all the photographs, labeling them and placing them in several inherited albums.

 

October 23, 1955

I felt still better but didn’t go to church. Stayed in and sorted photographs all day. I had given so many inherited duplicates to younger members of the family that I came out with two surplus albums. Pearl Burchardt came over this evening and I have one to her. Hot day but cool north wind came up this evening.

 

October 24, 1955

This morning there was a real frost showing on the tops of cars, etc. Not killing, just a light frost.

 

October 25, 1955

[No entry for 1955]

 

October 26, 1955

Mr. Thornton came this morning to do some work in my house – change a door, move the ironing board, etc. He worked all day but didn’t finish. I went to Guthrie and spoke to the WSCS of the First Methodist Church on their Indian study.

 

October 27, 1955

Mr. Thornton finished at noon – house is a mess. In the P.M. I went to the Fiftieth Anniversary celebration of the Marshall Woman’s Club Mrs. Stuerke, charter member, who has had 50 yrs. of continuous membership, was especially honored. Mrs. Deselms of Guthrie an also charter member was there. Other old time members.

 

October 28, 1955

I learned Raymond Winburn would not be here for a week, and so I thought I might as well clean the house. I cleaned it thoroughly and Mrs. Adams came and spent the evening with me and listened to my records.

 

October 29, 1955

Since the house is clean and will soon by torn up again I thought I might as well enjoy it and so I dressed a hen and baked a pie and asked the Brysons to dinner tomorrow.

 

October 30, 1955

I also asked Dick & Della Clark and Stevie to dinner. We all went to church (good sermon) and S.S., and then to my house. They stayed most of the P.M. and how I did enjoy it! Della and Mabel helped me pick out the colors for my walls

 

October 31, 1955

Horrible, warm, windy day. I took Mrs. Hawkins to Enid to see the dr. Her eyes had made no improvement the past two weeks. Ulcers on both. He burned one to see if that would help. If so, he will try it on the other. They pained her badly. She got Mrs. Spray to stay with her and take care of her. Fine, if she only had the money to keep it up.

 

November 1, 1955

I drove to Stillwater this morning to see lovely Kathleen Garrett, who had a cancer operation Aug. 9. (I didn’t know it till recently.) She is fine, but I am afraid she has the sentence of death on her. Beautiful bright day, grass green, timber starting to color, sumac brilliant red.

 

November 2, 1955

I went to the WSCS meeting at the church. When I got home a call came from the Assn. on Am. Ind. Aff. in N. York that Gov. Gary is going to be in a television forum, and they want me to talk to him first for fear he might say something that would be twisted by the termination people. I will try to get an interview with him tomorrow. Hard dusty wind from north – pretty cool.

 

November 3, 1955

It froze ice last night. I called the gov’s office and found he was in Washington. Tried all day to get in touch with him. One complication was that he changed hotels without telling where he was going. Finally they said he was on the way back to Okla. I think that is a mistake.

 

November 4, 1955

I called the last Washington hotel this morning and found the gov. had not left last night, but was on way to airport when I called. I drove to the City – beat him there – tho’t I would stay overnight if necessary. But his exec. Assistant, Mr. Townsend, was very nice; and I found the interview had been recorded yesterday morning! All my work was wasted.  

November 5, 1955

Took Mrs. Hawkins to the doctor. Got the first good news. Her good eye is much better, ulcer receding. (He burned both Monday – I thought he burned only one.) He burned them again. Phyllis came in to stay with her. I sewed all P.M. Finished some underwear. Had supper with the Websters at Mrs. Adams’. Lovely weather.

 

November 6, 1955

Went to church & S.S. Then in P.M. the preacher started a Bible class. There was a good number out. We decided to read Luke – Acts first, then Revelation. We got out at 3:15. I spent rest of evening taking down curtains & pictures, rolling rugs, etc. getting ready to paint walls, sand & varnish floors in three north rooms.

 

November 7, 1955

Cold day. Raymond Winburn worked all day, patching, filling cracks, etc. getting ready to paint three north rooms. Mrs. Adams at Woodward, and so I am sleeping at home tonight.

 

November 8, 1955

Raymond painted the three ceilings two coats, walls of 1½ rooms one coat (mauve pink – I think I shall like it.) I went in the P.M. to guest day of Bethel Boosters Club at Covington. Fine book review by paid reviewer. (I forget name of book & of reviewer.)

 

November 9, 1955

Raymond finished the three rooms this afternoon. Kitchen a golden yellow. I love it. Now for the floors. Ralph Cooper came to visit me, and I got dinner for us and we held trays on our laps to eat. Dr. Parker at Douglas had given him some bad news and I think he needed to tell some relative about it. Cold this morning, but warming up.

 

November 10, 1955

Mr. “Slim” Chapman started on the floor sanding. I spaded the garden. The weather is nice.

 

November 11, 1955

Beautiful day. More floor sanding.

 

November 12, 1955

Mr. Chapman finished the floor, I hurt my back lifting a stove. Joy Miller of the Associated Press called from Denver. I am to meet her in the City tomorrow. Beautiful warm day.

 

November 13, 1955

Drove to the City and spent the day with Joy Miller. In the P.M. I took her out to interview Judge Johnson. I got back at 6 – ate and went to the Bible class at the church. Fine attendance. Lovely warm day.

 

November 14, 1955

Mr. Chapman put the first coat on the floor. I am going in and out thru the bedroom window. The floor looks lovely. Warm perfect weather for painting.

 

November 15, 1955

Mr. Chapman put on the second coat. The floor is beautiful. My back hurt worse today than it has before. This evening the wind turned north and it is starting to get cold. Tomorrow I am going to Woodward to speak in a church.

 

November 16, 1955

Down to 10ᵒ this morning. I got pretty cold before my car heater got warmed up. Last night I suffered considerably with my back – finally aspirin and hot water bottle eased it. This cold drive didn’t make it any better. I attended luncheon meeting & spoke in P.M. Then stayed with May & Cecil Donley. They took me to Boiling Springs Park and to Supply reservoir. Then we spent evening with Dr. and Mrs. Williams.

 

November 17, 1955

Came home this morning. My stay with May and Cecil was a happy experience. She and I graduated from h.s. in same class and I knew him when we were children. They were wonderful to me. I got tired yesterday but got along pretty well. It warmed up a little today. Mr. Chapman waxed and polished the floor today – also varnished one spot that was under the organ.

 

November 18, 1955

Mr. Chapman came and waxed the spot he varnished yesterday. My back hurts pretty bad. It gets worse every day. I had hoped it would soon get better. Cloudy this morning but cleared off. No moisture this spell.

 

November 19, 1955

Lovely warm day. Raymond got Carl Weber to help him and they moved in the refrigerator. Then because of my back (which is worse today than ever) I had them move some things I had ready. We got everything back in the north half and the south half nearly empty.

 

November 20, 1955

Warm windy day. Just after I came back from church Gladys Davis came by briefly with her niece and family. She had been to visit them at Ponca and they were taking her back to the City to join a friend for the drive to Amarillo. She looks wonderful. I drove out this P.M. to see Lucille about Mrs. Hawkins – n.g. My back seems better.

 

November 21, 1955

Mrs. Hawkins’ sight is coming back but she thinks she is not well enough to see the dr. I called him and he said it is essential. So I drove out to Voskuhls – found them gone but through their boy George made arrangements for Bill to take her. Raymond Winburn started painting the south rooms today – or rather patched cracks and got ready.

 

November 22, 1955

Mrs. H. wanted me to go along with her to the dr. Bill took us – she thought he could help her better than I. He found her eyes much improved – burned them again. She had a bad P.M. for I couldn’t stay with her. Raymond painted all day and I had to be here as much as possible.

 

November 23, 1955

My back still pains me so I went to see the dr. He gave me various heating and massage treatments and it improved so much I am disgusted that I didn’t go before. But I am always slow to give up. Raymond finished the painting.

 

November 24, 1955

Thanksgiving day. I spent it at home wiping up spots of paint, etc. My back is so much better I am very happy about it. I should have gone to the dr. before. Beautiful day.

 

November 25, 1955

Mr. Chapman started sanding the floor today. I am sleeping in Mrs. Adams’ house while my bed is down. She is away but before she left she got so she could stay alone. I am glad she is over her fear. When my bed is up I will stay at home now.

 

November 26, 1955

Sanding continues. Nice warm day. My back still bothers me mornings. Is better later in the day because it is warmer I think. Tomorrow I am going to Okemah to speak to John Gingerich’s church.

 

November 27, 1955

Nice morning, then gale with dust from the north swept in about 9. I drove through it to Okemah, could hardly hold the car in the road. Had a nice visit with Gingerichs – spoke in John’s church in the evening. Am staying with Mrs. Pemberton. Pretty cold.

 

November 28, 1955

Drove back to Marshall this morning. Clear but cold. All afternoon Mr. Chapman worked on the sanding. My back is the best it has been.

 

November 28, 1955

Mr. Chapman is ill but he managed to put the filler on the floor. The weather is warming up. My back seems almost well. [I think this was the day Bill Voskuhl took Mrs. H. to Enid. I had to go along.]

 

November 30, 1955

I drove to Stillwater – will speak to Dr. Chapman’s history classes tomorrow. Am staying with Esther Anderson and her sister Mrs. Palmer. It started snowing this evening. and the ground I called on Mrs. Garrett & Kathleen. Kathleen is back at half time work.

 

December 1, 1955

Ground white this morning but most of it melted during the day. I spoke to the classes, also on recorded radio program on the Indian situation. Miserable misty cold day – too cold to varnish after I got home. I became very ill after reaching home – some virus, called “intestinal flu” for want of a name.

 

December 2, 1955

Cleared off this morning. Mr. Chapman put on the first coat of varnish. I was terribly sick all night, O.K. this morning except so weak, lay around all day and didn’t eat much.

 

December 3, 1955

Mr. Chapman put on the second coat of varnish. I feel much better today but still rather weak.

 

December 4, 1955

I went to our church service and after that went over to the Disciples’ church and spoke on the Indian situation. I seldom speak so well. Went home for the dinner with the fine young minister and his lovely wife and new baby. Had fine visit but tired this evening. Too tired to attend Bible class.

 

December 5, 1955

Mr. Chapman fas waxed the floors. an Finished about ten. This is the south half of the house – north half finished two weeks ago. Soon as he finished I started putting the furniture back.

 

December 6, 1955

Still moving furniture. It is a slow process because in spite of all the covering I did to protect things the dust from the sanding has gone into everything.

 

December 7, 1955

Still cleaning and straightening the house.

 

December 8, 1955

Still at it. Washing windows is part of the process. I believe this is the day I prevailed on Voskuhls to take Mrs. H. to the dr. They acted terribly aggrieved. (I had to go along.) Her eyes were improving but for the past two weeks they are worse again. The dr. is discouraged & so am I.

 

December 9, 1955

Got everything finished. The house looks lovely.

 

December 10, 1955

I put up my Xmas tree and started sending out my Xmas letters. Tomorrow the Bible reading group from Stillwater is coming for a meeting with me. Twelve of us. I put in leaves and set the table.

 

December 11, 1955

I went to church & S.S. Then went home and waited for the Stillwater bunch. They arrived about 12:30 with food and we had a very happy dinner together. In the P.M. they we played some of my “Messiah” records; also went with the Websters to Covington where the Bible class is meeting this month. Then I visited and ate popcorn with the Websters till ten. Warm day.

 

December 12, 1955

Most of this week I sent out Xmas letter – neglected to make daily entries. Most of the time I was about sick with a cold.

 

December 13, 1955

I attended a meeting of Marshall Woman’s Club – heard a very wonderful review of a book by Walker by Mrs. Schaeffer.

 

December 14, 1955

[No entry for 1955]

 

December 15, 1955

[No entry for 1955]

 

December 16, 1955

Geo. Thornton and Joe Misar were going to build a cabinet around my sink today but they didn’t appear.

 

December 17, 1955

[No entry for 1955]

 

December 18, 1955

Grace Goodman came up to church & S.S. and then spent the day with me. We had a wonderful visit. I wanted her to stay overnight but she had to leave. In the evening I went to the Xmas program at the church. It was fine. Vera Debo Hasselhorn called from Chicago. It was wonderful to hear her voice.

 

December 19, 1955

Mr. Misar & Mr. Thornton came and raised and changed my sink and worked on a cabinet. They didn’t get through. I had to drive to Crescent for 2 in. of linoleum. The club had its Xmas program but I couldn’t go.

 

December 20, 1955

They finished the cabinet. Now I must paint it. The Websters and their son came over this evening and listened to the Messiah.

 

December 21, 1955

I drove to Stillwater just because I wanted to enjoy the library and my good friends on its staff. I didn’t have nearly enough time. I called briefly on the Garretts, stopped and saw the Howlands’ new house and brought a plant home for Mrs. Overton.

December 22, 1955

This evening I went to the Xmas program at the school auditorium. I marvel at the fine training the children show. Very different from Xmas programs in the good old days.

 

December 23, 1955

Warm day. I painted the cabinet one coat. Am running down every few minutes to see about Mrs. Hawkins. Mrs. Spray, who usually stays with her left for Xmas. Her daughter can’t be bothered – has other plans for Christmas.

 

December 24, 1955

I finished the cabinet. Am still watching out for Mrs. H. It is so warm today I have the doors and windows open and the furnace off. That made it fine for my painting. It is still uncomfortably warm at 7 P.M. 87ᵒ is official record.

 

December 25, 1955

I went to church & S.S. (small crowd); then drove to Stillwater and took Xmas dinner & spent P.M. with Boyce family. Anna & Bess were there from Carmen. Enjoyed it very much. While I was gone Nellie Thomas & June Horsefield came So sorry to miss them. Poor Mrs. Hawkins was alone all day, cold snack at noon. I looked in on her morning noon, & evening.

 

December 26, 1955

Quiet day. Mrs. Spray, who was away three days, came back to be with Mrs. H. this evening. Poor Mrs. H. was left alone all the time except as the neighbors ran in all but the last night when granddaughter Phyllis stayed with her. Jim & Lil McCall & her mother & sister Virginia, from Tenn. came over and listened to the Messiah. It was a great pleasure to hear it with those musically sensitive people.

 

December 27, 1955

I took Mrs. H. to the dr. at Enid. Mr. Webster went along to help. He found her eyes somewhat improved. She has been neglecting those trips lately because they are hard for her. I have been urging her and she has been unwilling. I talked to her very seriously Xmas day – told her it was up to her and I would not urge her any more. So she decided she wanted to go.

 

December 28, 1955

Mr. Thornton cut down some dead trees getting ready to build a new outbuilding. They are my three precious plum trees that died in the terrible heat and drouth [sic] of ’54 plus the late freeze last spring. Weather still warm but not hot like Saturday. I went to open house at McCalls [sic] with Velma Payne.

 

December 29, 1955

It is getting cold today – very dark, gloomy and cloudy.

 

December 30, 1955

[No entry for 1955]

 

December 31, 1955

I am getting ready for company tomorrow. I cleared off my table – I had put all my Xmas cards & letters on it and it was so full I could hardly pack them in. I love these contracts from distant friends. But I cleared them off so I could set it for dinner. I got everything done today I could.