1. Home
2. Life
3. Diaries
4. 1950s
5. 1956

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January 1 - December 31, 1956

(Box 5/Folder 5)

 

January 1, 1956

Pearl Boyce and dear Donna, and my old friends Anna and Bess came from Stillwater and took dinner with me. I went to church & S.S. (fine sermon & fine S.S. lesson by Della) and when I got home they had just driven up. I enjoyed them so much. The air is thick with dust.

 

January 2, 1956

Beautiful bright day and so warm I turned off the furnace and opened the windows. I took down my tree and burned it – put away the ornaments till next year. I always feel sad when Xmas is over.

 

January 3, 1956

Mrs. Spray was called away by the death of her brother leaving Mrs. Hawkins alone, and she has a threatening tight cold on her chest. I thought a man might have more influence so I told the Brysons and Raymond went out and told the Voskuhls. Bill was very deeply concerned and apparently brought Lucile in to care for her mother. Anyhow I saw the car there, so suppose it is O.K.

 

January 4, 1956

I drove to Jay, 200 miles, stopped at Blue Jay Courts. After four went to the home of my good friend Wynona Nelson. Pleasant visit with her & Mr. Nelson & Mr. Starr. Marvelous dinner (Wy. can cook!) Then I went with Wy. and spoke to the women of the Methodist Church. Warm day. I came by Cleveland, Hominy, Claremore and Spavinaw.

 

January 5, 1956

Drove to Tulsa. Came by Langley, crossed Grand Lake on dam. Stopped at home of Berneita Semones . She & I went to her church and I spoke at a luncheon meeting of the women. Spent rest of day at Semones home. Mr. S. is fine – also lovely children (Ester Lynn, Lee, Mary, & Joe). I am very tired tonight.

 

January 6, 1956

Thought I would stay two more days in Tulsa to visit. Went to home of the Jack Emorys. Visited with Frances till noon. Then we met Jane Taylor at Utica center cafeteria for lunch. Then we all spent P.M. at Philbrook and briefly at new courthouse (met Judge Taylor there). Also visited the beautiful new Temple Israel. Warm day. Talked till midnight with Frances & Mr. Emory.

 

January 7, 1956

Frances took me to see Gertrude and her two lovely little girls. I have loved G. since she was four, but this stage is the best of all. Her fine husband came to see me yesterday evening. Then I drove to home of Louise Whitham, had lunch and spent P.M. with her & her sister Mrs. Jane Melton. Then I took Louise to home of Beulah Clinton. Had supper and evening visit. Terribly tired. Cold day.

 

January 8, 1956

Rested fine and woke up feeling like myself. Enjoyed leisurely breakfast with Beulah & Louise. Took Louise home & started my trip back. Thought I would go to church at Stillwater but got there too late. Ate at college cafeteria with Grace De Motte, Graves sisters, & Lyla McClure. Stopped to see Mrs. Garret & Kathleen. Then drove home. Nice day, warmer.

 

January 9, 1956

My house is hardly at all dirty though I have not cleaned it since I moved the furniture back exactly a month ago. Anyhow I clean it up on general principles for the club meets with me tomorrow. Wonderful bright warm day.

 

January 10, 1956

The Marshall Woman’s Club met with me today. Interesting meeting except that we had election of officers and they elected me president. I couldn’t refuse for I have done less than my share of work for that club.

 

January 11, 1956

I drove to Guthrie to talk to the county judge about what could be done in case of an extreme emergency for Mrs. Hawkins.

 

January 12, 1956

I drove to Garber to talk to the women of the Disciples Church. Somehow was not up to par and almost fainted when the room got too hot, but I got through – not too well I felt. Fine group of women, fine interest. Mrs. L.A. McDaniel especially fine. I stayed in the home of minister Rev. Allen Keller.

 

January 13, 1956

I had a nice drive home from Garber this morning. Spent the day writing necessary letters. It is getting terribly dry. The wheat is beginning to suffer. No moisture since that week of good rain the first of Oct – 3½ months.

 

January 14, 1956

I went to see Father Thomas, the Catholic priest, to get an address. He is a fat friendly person who talks a blue streak with great wit and charm.

 

January 15, 1956

I went to church & S.S. this morning. This evening I spoke at the Disciples Church at Crescent. Met some fine people. Am staying in the home of Marthena McConnell, whom I like very much.

 

January 16, 1956

Very cold this morning. I drove back rather late in the morning from Crescent – enjoyed my visit with Marthena McConnell. Hope I may see her again. Learned Mrs. Spray plans to leave Mrs. Hawkins at end of month Mrs. H. has known it a week but told nobody.

 

January 17, 1956

Snowed over the state, not much here, only to make the ground white. I talked to Mrs. H. – told her she had to tell Lucile, or I would (she said she would.). Tried to get her to make plans but she wouldn’t. Too afraid she will inconvenience Lucile. Learned Mrs. Deselms died and funeral today in Guthrie. How I admired that fine young couple in 1903 – now both gone.

 

January 18, 1956

I attended WSCS. Suggested they write to senators opposing confirmation of Wesley D’ Ewart D’ Ewart as asst. secy. of int. because of his anti-Indian policy. They agreed unanimously but asked me to write the letters. I did & got secy to sign & they went into postoffice [sic] late this evening.

 

January 19, 1956

Had pleasant drive to Okeene this evening with August Burchardts. Katherine thought I was to speak at E. & R. church there and they were taking me. But it turned out to be the wrong evening. Date was next Thurs. I had next Thurs. on my calendar but thought she must be right. She was very embarrassed. But I certainly enjoyed the drive with them.

 

January 20, 1956

I went to Guthrie to talk with Social Security man. He thinks I should have pay for last 4 months of 1955. I had though myself ineligible until this Jan. It would be pleasant to have it but I shall be satisfied without. I got 2 red plastic dishpans red mat, and yellow dish rack for my sink. They are beautiful and very convenient.

 

January 21, 1956

I talked to Mrs. Hawkins who will be alone after Jan. 31. I told her the Voskuhls should borrow money and buy out her interest in the farm so she could have money to care for herself. She said they were working on some such plan. I only hope they can swing it.

 

January 22, 1956

The slickest sleet I ever saw covered the ground when I looked out this morning. I picked my way across the street to the church – stayed in and played records the rest of the day. Dark all day.

 

January 23, 1956

I ventured out this P.M. after the mail. It was slick on the ground but on the pavement the sleet had melted by afternoon.

 

January 24, 1956

In afternoon I went to club at Groce home. Fine lession [sic] on the segregation problem by Mrs. Pruitt and Mrs. Pollard.

 

January 25, 1956

[No entry]

 

January 26, 1956

This evening I went with the August Burchardts to Okeene where I spoke at the Evangelical church. Saw Leta Fay Friend happily married to their young minister, Mr. Wilhaus. Also beautiful Bernice Friend and her two children from Geary. Very foggy threatening weather, but I didn’t worry because August was driving.

 

January 27, 1956

Katherine Burckhardt brought me My Six Convicts by Donald Powell Wilson. It was so interesting I sat right down and didn’t get up till I had finished reading it.

 

January 28, 1956

I drove out to see the Drapers. I am hoping to get the Methodist and Evangelical churches federated. They are too much alike to duplicate each other’s’ [sic] work. Dark threatening day.

 

January 29, 1956

More sleet last night but warm enough so ground not slick. Very dark gloomy day. I went to church (communion service) and Sunday school. Stayed in and read the rest of the day.

 

January 30, 1956

Bright beautiful day but rather cold. It seems we never get any real moisture. Tonight I ate pancakes with the boy scouts. It seems the whole town is patronizing them. It was fun seeing them hustling around serving.

 

January 31, 1956

[No entry]

 

February 1, 1956

Snow, rain, and sleet – not much but enough so I thought I would not drive to Guthrie to speak to the women of West Side Methodist Church. I went to our own meeting here and enjoyed it very much. We had a nice, group considering the weather. It is freezing hard this evening.

 

February 2, 1956

The roads dried without melting – there was so little moisture. But this afternoon it got pretty cold. I had intended to drive to Stillwater to the Bible reading class and stay overnight with Grace De Motte but it was so cold and looked so stormy I didn't go.

 

February 3, 1956

It started snowing a nice soft snow in late afternoon, about ½ inch fell. But before bedtime it quit. It seems we just can’t get any moisture.

 

February 4, 1956

It started snowing again this P.M. about two or three inches I judge. It looks as though we might get more.

 

February 5, 1956

I suppose we got about 3 in. of snow. It is soft and even, not drifted – just the kind to do the most good. I went to church this morning – fair attendance for the weather. Called on Sadie Goodnight this P.M.

 

February 6, 1956

Mr. Draper, chairman of the official board of our church, has called a meeting to discuss federation with the E. & R. congregation. I spent some time today spreading the word. The population of our community is shrinking so that it is hard (and useless anyhow) to keep up so many denominations.

 

February 7, 1956

Attended meeting of Marshall Woman’s Club at the schoolhouse. We saw a film showing children’s library service. Heard Charley Winburn died yesterday.

 

February 8, 1956

I don’t remember whether it was the night of Feb. 6 or Feb. 7 that it rained about an inch. Feb. 7 I think. It is wonderful on top of the snow. Come to think of it I’m sure it was Feb. 7. Attended Charley Winburn’s funeral at Disciples Church.

 

February 9, 1956

Nothing much happened. The sun came out this P.M. after threatening rain, snow, or sleet for several days past.

 

February 10, 1956

[No entry]

 

February 11, 1956

Our Methodist district supt. called Mr. Draper on the telephone (party line, 14 families) and laid him out for daring to call a meeting to discuss federation. Mr. D. said as an oil field worker he had never received such a dressing. Soft-voiced, courteous Mr. D. did not back down, finally, got the d.s. to say go ahead with the meetings and to choose a committee to talk with the bishop.

 

February 12, 1956

Lovely day – more at church than during the past few sleety Sundays. In the evening I went with the Websters to the Bible class at Covington. I neglected to say that Grace and Ruth Hammond visited me yesterday P.M. (Feb. 11). I showed them all I had done to the house & they showed me their new car.

 

February 13, 1956

Turn back page. We have needed money in our Marshall Woman’s Club and had decided on a “Come as You Are” breakfast. Suddenly this morning Jerry Schaefer came and started routing us out. We joined in and routed others. Some looked horrible – I was just sitting down to eat and was pretty hungry before we all got together It was great fun. We met Mrs. Murphy, our new druggist’s wife. She is fine.

 

February 14, 1956

Loretta O’Neil took me to Hennessey to speak on Indians to the Enid deanery of the Natl. Council of Catholic Women. Beautiful new church. Fine group of women. Just before the meeting ended their beloved “Father” Levin, newly consecrated bishop, came in. He spoke briefly. He is fine. I can understand why they think so much of him.

 

February 15, 1956

I drove to the A.&M. library, to get some census statistics (showing the relentless decline of population from 1900 on) to show the bishop. Then in the P.M. I stopped briefly to tell the Xn Woman’s Fellowship of a plan to deprive the Osages of their oil & to the WSCS at the Don Cassidays, where I told them also & they passed a res voted to thank Belcher & Steed [?] in Congress for their work in behalf of the Osages.

 

February 16, 1956

We went to O.C. to see the bishop. He is unalterably opposed to federation as a plan that will not work. But he was very sympathetic and understanding and is willing to work with us in whatever we decide – except federation.

 

February 17, 1956

Talked with Mrs. Webster and other about interview with the bishop. Louis Reim, whom I have not seen since he was a kid, now of official board of E. and R. church came and talked with me. Very generous in his desire to cooperate.

 

February 18, 1956

Mrs. Hawkins’ birthday. Pearl & Neoma, her nieces were there, also Izoria Vogt [?] & her husband and several other Enid people. I stayed away to give the day to them, but Neoma came and visited briefly with me.

 

February 19, 1956

Went to church & S.S. this morning. Fine sermon, fine S.S. class (Della, teacher). Went home for dinner at the Clarks. Wonderful visit, Mr. & Mrs. Webster, other guests. In evening, took my car & took the Websters to Bible class at Covington. Went home for coffee with Flora Maloy.

 

February 20, 1956

Went to O.C. this afternoon. Am staying with Mrs. Devore. Met her sister, Dr. George. Will speak tomorrow with the women of Westminster Presbyterian Church.

 

February 21, 1956

Spoke to fine group of guild women at 10:30 meeting, I did fairly well. Coffee afterwards. In evening spoke at dinner meeting of business and prof. women. Seldom do so badly. I was sorry for them. Met very fine woman, Betty Acord, who is program chm. for both groups.

 

February 22, 1956

Had meeting at church and reported on bishop’s advice. One suggestion he made was unacceptable – unjust to E. & R. people. Our group was shocked and somehow never gave real consideration to his other suggestions. So we are exactly where we were.

 

February 23, 1956

I was tired today but in evening drove out and talked with the Drapers about the church. I think it will work out that most of us will simply join the E. & R., which I suspect is what the bishop hopes we will do.

 

February 24, 1956

I went to Stillwater & ate with our Bible reading group in a small room of the college cafeteria; then we read (Leviticus) our Bibles there; then all wen to hear a wonderful address from Carlos P. Romulo, whom I have admired for many years. Am staying with Grace De Motte.

 

February 25, 1956

Spent forenoon at the library – had an especially fine visit with my beloved Helen Slack. Visited the Garretts in the early P.M. Got some flowers for dear Mrs. Overton, and went to see her as soon as I got home. Found she had had a stroke yesterday at 4 A.M. Why didn’t I get the flowers to her sooner?

 

February 26, 1956

Fine sermon. Della not present so I taught the S.S. class. In evening went with the Drapers (and Mrs. Webster) to Covington to the Bible class. Mr. Webster had to stay here with the United Youth Fellowship (young Xn pastor ill) and so I taught the class.

 

February 27, 1956

[No entry]

 

February 28, 1956

Attended meeting of Marshall Woman’s Club. Poor Mrs. Overton is very disturbed in her mind since her stroke. I went to offer my help (if needed) to the family and they asked me in to see her. I was afraid it would disturb her but they thought it might quiet her. I hardly know.

 

February 29, 1956

Went out to ask Elsie Schaefer a question about club and we talked about church all forenoon. Got letter from her good husband that my beloved second grade teacher died suddenly of a stroke.

 

March 4, 1956

Mr. Webster preached a fine sermon. In S.S. I had to teach the young people, so missed Della’s class. In P.M. took Sadie G. & went to Stillwater to hear Stabat Mater. Very fine. Just as I drove into my garage on my return I saw Mrs. Hubbard with her grandson Billy and his wife and baby driving up. So glad I didn’t miss them. We had a short visit. Then I went to the church & taught first lesson on acts [sic]. Fine group, fine interest.

 

March 5, 1956

We are having very hot weather these days. I got some pinks from Mr. Overton and set them out a few days ago. This evening I thoroughly soaked the garden with the hose.

 

March 6, 1956

I went to Enid to talk to the dr. about Mrs. H’s eyes. He still thinks there is a chance he could save them but she dreads the trip so much I think she will let them go. I am doubtful myself. I visited with my dear Esther Porter. She gave me a start of fern. In the evening just as I started back a bad dust storm and wind started from the n.w. Now it is getting pretty cold. I covered the pink’s.

 

March 7, 1956

A sifting of snow, but it blew so hard it didn’t stay on the fields. I attended the WSCS meeting at the church. This evening Raymond B. and Leo Draper called. We are still trying to decide what we should do as individuals about the church. The wind went down this P.M.

 

March 8, 1956

[No entry]

 

March 9, 1956

Nothing much happens these days. We are still talking with each other trying to decide about our loved little church. I joined it myself 54 years ago and it has meant much to me; but the community is getting smaller and there are too many churches here.

 

March 10, 1956

I spent all afternoon listening to the Metropolitan’s Boris Godunaff [sic] on the radio. I have got it for my record player this winter and so it was a great pleasure to hear it. It was in English, and a different version from mine. Cold wind from north this evening.

 

March 11, 1956

Fine sermon but our S.S. group was so small it was almost non- existent. In the evening we had a good time in the class I am teaching in Acts. It was a coldish day. The wing [sic] swung to the north yesterday evening and got pretty cold.

 

March 12, 1956

Really cold this morning. The thermometer said 12° or even 10°. It got warmer before the day was over.

 

March 13, 1956

I drove to Tulsa. Am having a very pleasant visit with the Emorys. Not so cold as yesterday.

 

March 14, 1956

Had lunch with Mrs. Murphy at Utica Shopping Center. Then I spoke to Indian Womans Club in the Student Union Lounge at the University. Mr. Muskrat & Mr. Cobb from the Cherokee Foundation also spoke.

 

March 15, 1956

Drove home this forenoon. It started snowing at Keystone, snowed fairly hard most of the way but it melted as soon as it fell. Will do some good though not much water fell.

 

March 16, 1956

We are still working on the problem of what to do with our church. We love it and hate to leave it but some of us think it time to close it and merge with another. Others can’t bear to do it.

 

March 17, 1956

Dr. Russell our dist. supt. will hold some meetings in our church next week. He was very rude to Mr. Draper when we first talked of federation with E. & R. but has come to understand our problem better.

 

March 18, 1956

Dist. Supt. preached this morning and evening. All our people were out – 47 in S.S. and morning congregation, which is a big number for us.

 

March 19, 1956

Dist. Supt. preached at church this evening. The usual small crowd. August Burchardt and the wholesale man came it [sic] see my furnace. It is falling apart and they are going to give me a new one.

 

March 20, 1956

Dist. supt. preached again this evening.

 

March 21, 1956

Rained about ½ in. last night – some today. We had WSCS at Jack Cassadays’. After service this evening Dist. Supt. held quarterly conference. Very pathetic. The die-hards who can’t bear to close the church were very discouraged at the small amt. of money pledged & the realization most of the leaders are withdrawing.

 

March 22, 1956

Dist. Supt. closed his meeting tonight. He showed a very understanding spirit all the way through.

 

March 23, 1956

I am writing many letters these days, trying to inform the public on the Indian situation. I hope it will do some good.

 

March 24, 1956

Writing more letters. I am working so hard on this Indian business I have not started the writing I intended to do when I left the library.

 

March 25, 1956

Church & S.S. – small crowd – then the Bible class I taught in the evening – small crowd there too.

 

March 26, 1956

[no entry]

 

March 27, 1956

Went to the schoolhouse with club members and attended annual school meeting. Good crowd out. Then we voted (Loren Olmstead & Loren Pollard, candidates) and our club went to Winnie Branen’s for meeting. Was surprised and shocked at Loren O’s dictatorial conduct at the meeting.

 

March 28, 1956

I was reinstated in the Rebekah lodge this evening. I had joined when I was a girl and dropped out. Yesterday and today I planted rose bushes & clematis I had ordered. Mr. Pruitt and 2 of his boys planted a pin oak for me today.

 

March 29, 1956

I drove to Stillwater to use the library. Stopped to see Kathleen Garrett. So shocked at her looks – how much she had failed since I saw her last. Death is on her face. She still teaches but lies down the rest of the time. Her time is short. I hope she may not suffer much.

 

March 30, 1956

Still so shocked over Kathleen that I am sort of numb. I am working on a paper for the Okla. Library Assn.

 

March 31, 1956

Some nice high school boys came and wanted to work. Let them cut out all the dead stalks of the white lilac hedge. Nothing is left but some very young growth. The drought killed all the rest. No blooms for years till the new ones grow.

 

April 1, 1956

Church & S.S. this morning, Bible reading class this evening. It looks as though it just might collect & rain. And how we need it!

 

April 2, 1956

Neglected entries for week of Apr. 2-9. Will try to think back and record it. On Apr. 2 went to Enid, left my car at Ralph Looper’s and took bus for Amarillo. Near Sayre ran into very bad dust storm. (Learned later it had tornadoes in it – did much harm to Drumright, less in other Okla. towns.) Margaret Harper & Luella Reeves met me & took me to Canyon. Staying at Luella’s. Rained at Marshall last night.

 

April 3, 1956

Took things easy today. Visited with Luella. (She is so wonderful.) Had dinner with the Harpers. Hattie Anderson there too. In evening spoke at Presbyterian Church. Nice group there from all the churches. It is a great privilege to be in Canyon with these dear friends.

 

April 4, 1956

Held seminar for small group of women at Presby church at 10 A.M. In fact did it every day. I do not remember which days held which events. I had lunch one day with Miss Richardson, who shows age but is very happy. One evening Ruth Lowes.

 

April 5, 1956

took Luella and me out to the canyon, but we had to hurry back because I spoke to a student group at the Xn-Presby. student center. Other denominations including the Methodists (my own loved group) were there too.

 

April 6, 1956

One evening Luella & I had dinner in Hattie’s lovely apt. with Mattie Mack as co-hostess. One P.M. I visited Lucy Jo Loudder, who is beautiful, and lovely, and intelligent – a remarkable person. I saw the college’s beautiful.

 

April 7, 1956

new library and visited with Elbessa Stevens. Lonnie Babson not there, but she called on me at Luella’s house. One morning we drove out and visited Mrs. Rockwell. Returned to Enid Apr. 7, picked up my car and drove home.

 

April 8, 1956

I went to church & S.S. this morning. In P.M. the Aug. Burchardts took me to Midwest City where I spoke to E. & R. church. Fine group. Fine pastor, Mr. Schneider. On way back we began to see lightning far in north. Wind rose to a gale, dust bad. Sky got worse as we drove into it. Reached home about 10:30. Katherine very uneasy.

 

April 9, 1956

Electricity went off soon after I got home. Learned later high line poles shattered like match sticks, transformer blown over a whole farm. We had a wild night. Everybody in cellars. About 12 the night watchman drove thru town blowing auto horn – couldn’t use siren. At least 2 funnels seen. Much damage between here & Garber. Transformer came Portable electric outifit [sic] came up from O.C. Our power came on tonight.

 

April 10, 1956

I went to Club at Mabel Brysons. Joe Misar put in a new furnace for me. The other was defective and burned out and so the company replaced it.

 

April 11, 1956

I think this was the day we had a heavy white frost. (I am writing late.) But it didn’t kill anything. I suppose the ground was too warm. I went to lodge this evening. Saw very fine initiation ceremony for Chas. Cassidy. Also wonderfully trained drill team.

 

April 12, 1956

[No entry]

 

April 13, 1956

Elsie Schaefer and I drove to Tulsa this morning for convention of State Fed. Woman’s Clubs. Program not impressive, Mrs. Prout [?] of Michigan, who is slated as Natl. Pres. spoke at the banquet this evening. About the stupidest person I ever saw attempting to make a speech. No brains! No brains.

 

April 14, 1956

Sky looked a little threatening (fake alarm) and so Elsie and I drove home without waiting for the morning program. We didn’t miss much I think. I am not at all impressed by this convention. Some of the leaders are fine but too many twitterers in rank & file.

 

April 15, 1956

At Stillwater learned Eliz. Thomas died yesterday Church & S.S. this morning. At 7 min to 12 the fire whistle blew. Flame coming out of the Chev. garage. Firemen could do nothing. It became a roaring inferno – worst fire I ever saw – fed by exploding gas tanks of about a dozen cars (new and used) and driven by a high wind. All over in 40 min. At one Sadie Goodnight, Mrs. Stuerke and I drove to Twin Mounds for dedication of Civil War battlefield. Taught my Bible class this evening.

 

April 16, 1956

Drove to Stillwater for a brief service in the Episcopal Church for Elizabeth Thomas, who will be taken to Michigan for burial. Poor Elizabeth! She was only 52. I loved her very much. Later – I believe – this was the day I bought my kitchen clock – $4.98.

 

April 17, 1956

Drove to Stillwater this P.M. to take part in a Sociology Club panel on present Ind. Policy. Other participants Fannie Beartrack & Mr. Walkingstick. In the few minutes before hand I traded in my old watch (n.g. – he allowed me $10) and $56 for a new watch. Staying at Marie Hatcher’s.

 

April 18, 1956

Had leisurely breakfast, etc. with Marie. Then to library. Had wonderful visit with Mr. Low – the only one I have had since I retired. Didn’t get to see Kathleen – she was resting. Miss Graves told me over telephone she quit work at Easter vacation. Had noon dinner and a wonderful visit with John and Estelle Melton. Tired – skipped lodge.

 

April 19, 1956

Actually stayed home today, only day since April 11 (and on to Apr. 23) without driving to or thru Stillwater. I worked on a paper I am to read at Okla. Library Assn. meet at Pawhuska.

 

April 20, 1956

Drove to Stillwater – arrived at 8:30. Had planned to ride to Pawhuska with the Pattees but too many for one load so Alice Pattee and Helen Donart rode with me. Lovely day. Pleasant drive. Meeting at fair grounds. Heard one of the finest papers I ever heard at luncheon meeting by Patricia Paylore, Aasst. lib. Uni of Ariz. & pres. of S.W. Lib. Assn. P.M. one almost equally fine by Va. Mathews, daughter of J.J.M. [?] Evening barbecue, J.J.M. [?] gave masterly address. Then reception at new library. I am staying with the Russell Fisters. Charming people.

 

April 21, 1956

Enjoyed the hospitality of the Fisters. He is Osage supt., an intelligent, understanding, sensitive person. Told me many things about Osage problems. Mrs. F. young, very pretty a great reader. Loves Chicago, not so happy at Pawhuska. Fine old house, built as agency headquarters in the 1870’s I think. My paper this morning. At noon Mr. Richards, Seattle Public Library read paper. He is fine. Mr. Stratton brought my car back so I could ride with Mr. Low, P. Baylor & Mr. Richards and tell them history. I showed them the Hominy cemetery, etc. Had Pleasant dinner at Union. Am at a tourist camp in Stillwater.

 

April 22, 1956

I did not want to drive back alone after dinner so went to tourist camp court. Was tired – had nice long sleep. Called Mrs. Garrett and she said I could go to see Kathleen at 10. She has failed terribly but talked and smiled and seemed free from pain. When I got ready to go she bade me goodbye very solemnly and started to cry. I couldn’t keep back my own tears and neither could her mother. Her mother followed me to the car and said Kathleen has given up pretending she is well. After my visit I went to the Presby. church. Then drove home. Spent the P.M. writing a letter to Kathleen I hoped might comfort her. Taught my Bible class this evening.

 

April 23, 1956

Mr. Fred Matthews came with a young man he called Jerry to put brick piers to support the pillars on my porch. The wooden ones were pretty and still stanch but I was afraid of termites. He is doing a fine job. Very slight shower last night.

 

April 24, 1956

The men are still working. I went to club at Betty Pruitt’s. I am enjoying my flowers this spring in spite of the drought- lovely tulips, iris, and my old-fashioned yellow rose. I got the rose from Louise Cromer about the time I went to Stillwater and this is the first time I have been here to enjoy it. It is lovely.

 

April 25, 1956

The men are still working on the porch. They are making the lattice work narrower so they won’t rest on the ground. I went to lodge this evening. Small group but I enjoyed it.

 

April 26, 1956

Labor bill $96. The men finished. I set out 6 tomatoes. The men finished this evening. Mr. Matthews did a fine job. They also cut off a root to the Chinese elm – at the dug down & chopped it off next to the tree. Then they reset the brick in the sidewalk and straightened out my walk where it had damaged it.

 

April 27, 1956

I worked all day catching up on my writing (in fact have been doing it all week). We have had miserable dry hot winds the past two days. Everything is wilting. The ground is terribly dry. Sadie Goodnight called.

 

April 28, 1956

Threatened rain but didn’t. Turned very cold this evening. I got Mr. Huffer to cut off a tree root that was bulging the sidewalk dangerously. Then he leveled the walk.

 

April 29, 1956

Went to church & S.S. this morning. Communion service. It made me very sad because I suppose it is the last one I shall ever join in in this church I have loved so long. Bible class this evening and how we all enjoy it.

 

April 30, 1956

Drove to Covington, left my car & took bus to Tulsa. Floy Cobb met me. I went to radio station where Louis Meyer recorded an interview. Then I read paper on experiences in writing Prairie City at dinner meet. of Tulsa Eng. Club. Pleasant occasion – glad to see Mr. G. H. Smith there. Am staying with Floy.

 

May 1, 1956

Nice rain last night – rained off & on all day. Had luncheon at Tulsa Club with Mrs. Guy Woodworth and we discussed a MS she has written. Spent rest of day at h.s. with Floy. Floy very tired and so we stayed home and went to bed early.

 

May 2, 1956

Cloudy & promise of rain all day. Visited library – saw Mr. Gorley – went with Allie Beth Martin to see new branch out east of Utica Sq. It is beautiful. Then had lunch at Tulsa coffee shop with Mrs. Whitham and the mother-in-law of one of her missionary nephews. Came home in P.M. No rain here. Went to lodge.

 

May 3, 1956

[No entry]

 

May 4, 1956

Drove to Stillwater this P.M. Called on Kathleen who seemed in pain – looks dreadful – but smiled & talked. Left my car & went to Tulsa with Elsie Shoemaker to dinner where Argye Briggs was initiated in Theta Sigma Phi. Mrs. B. is fine. Got back about midnight. Staying with Elsie.

 

May 5, 1956

Came straight home this morning. Spent the day reading Mary Santee’s thesis on hist. of agri. school at A.&M. It is fine. I am on her committee when she comes up for her exam May 10.

 

May 6, 1956

Drove to Stillwater, left my car, and rode to Muskogee with John & Estelle Melton. Picked up Mrs. Foreman and drove to Tenkiller Lake. Ate picnic lunch we had prepared. Spent rest of P.M. in home of Mrs. F. Wonderful visit. Reached Stillwater about 9:30. Am staying with Meltons.

 

May 7, 1956

Went down town and bought some comfortable summer shoes and some plastic galoshes. Reached home about twelve. In P.M. went to party for h.s. jrs. & s jr. & sr. girls given by Woman’s Club at Mabel Bryson’s.

 

May 8, 1956

Wrote letters, etc. all day. Our drought gets more serious all the time. It just can’t rain. The wheat still looks well but it can’t continue much longer on the rain it got the first week in October. Mrs. Ray Smith dropped dead in her home.

 

May 9, 1956

High dry wind. Very bad day. If it only would rain. I went to lodge this evening – hdkf shower for Mrs. Webster, mother-daughter party after meeting. During meeting we draped charter for Mrs. Smith. Thus life goes on checkered with sun and shadow.

 

May 10, 1956

Drove to Stillwater this morning. Made a radio recording on Indian policy with pretty Fanny Beartrack. Had lunch with Elsie Shoemaker and Mary Santee At 2 P.M. served on Mary Santee’s exam committee. She did fine. Will receive master’s degree this commencement. Called briefly on poor Kathleen Garrett who has failed shockingly. Very bad day – worse than yesterday – high wind.

 

May 11, 1956

Another bad day. Worst weather I ever saw so early in the year. Attended funeral of Mrs. Ray Smith – longest procession I ever saw. The family had many friends here.

 

May 12, 1956

[No entry]

 

May 13, 1956

Went to church & S.S. this morning. Then to h.s. baccalaureate. Father Thomas preached fine sermon. In the P.M. it actually rained. Almost ½ inch. It seemed so beautiful I went from window to window watching it. No Bible reading class this evening. Members all away from town or something.

 

May 14, 1956

Another rain – nearly ½ inch. I wish we could have had more but this will help. I cleaned my house thoroughly. First chance I have had because of the high winds and dust. So pleasant to live in a clean house.

 

May 15, 1956

Drove to Stillwater to Matrix dinner. Eliz. Toomey, speaker. Very bright and ambitious. Told of her experiences as reporter in the madhouse of Grace Kelly – Monaco wedding. Silly wedding but bright girl reporter. Staying with Graves sisters.

 

May 16, 1956

Before I came away stopped to see Kathleen G. She is very thin but was bright and rested more than usual. Her poor mother can’t keep back the tears except when she is in the room with Kathleen. Very brief lodge so members could attend 9th grade graduation. I didn’t went home instead.

 

May 17, 1956

Wen to h.s. commencement. Young Chinese man from Penang, Malaya was speaker.

 

May 18, 1956

[No entry]

 

May 19, 1956

Special delivery letter came from Assn. on Am. Ind. Aff. asking if I would do the Okla. part of a survey they are making of the Govt’s relocation policy. I said I would. It is an opportunity to accomplish something definite.

 

May 20, 1956

I drove to Stillwater and attended S.S. with Wesley Foundation – wanted to see students I once taught. Then sat with Graves sisters in church and ate lunch with them at Student Union. Then they came over here and I took them around & showed them the standing wheat – short but still lovely. Fine Bible class this evening.

 

May 21, 1956

Book came this morning for me to review for N.Y. Times. Glenn Tucker’s Tecumseh. It seems fine. It will hurry me to review it just now.

 

May 22, 1956

Went to Woman’s Club at Katherine Burchardt’s. Officers for next year installed. I took over as president. We are having dreadful weather again – hot, dry, dusty.

 

May 23, 1956

I worked at writing letters, etc. Went to loge this evening. It threatened looked like rain today. This evening turned very cold – high north wind, thick cloud. It just might rain.

 

May 24, 1956

Finished reading a fine book, Glenn Tucker’s Tecumseh. I am to review it for the N. Y. Times. It really drizzled some today. Not much water fell but it helps the lawn and flowers.

 

May 25, 1956

Beautiful rain – soft, gentle, and adequate – all going down. With yesterday about 1 ½ in. We can use more but this came slowly to do the most good. I sent off my review.

 

May 26, 1956

More rain. I cleaned the house. Such a pleasure to get rid of the dust.

 

May 27, 1956

More lovely rain. This was a sad day for me Mr. Webster preached his last sermon (fine sermon) and several of us are going to leave our church, now at the end of the year. I remember so well the first time I entered it and with my brother was assigned to the children’s S.S. class, and our young parents will come by the adults. It was in the fall of 1899. This evening we had our last Bible class. It was fine but it is sad to have it over.

 

May 28, 1956

Floy Elliott Cobb, who taught here as a very young girl back in 1911-13, came from Tulsa to visit me today and to attend the high school alumni reunion tomorrow. I am enjoying her so much. Sadie Goodnight dropped in to see her. Then I took her in my car over town and pointed out the old landmarks.

 

May 29, 1956

Ida and Ralph Arrington came for a brief visit. They were on their way to the cemetery. I took Floy over the town and thru the country. Then we went to the alumni business meeting in the P.M. and banquet and dance in the evening. Her old pupils were so happy to see her that she was greatly touched.

 

May 30, 1956

I got up at 6:30 while Floy was asleep and drove up to decorate the graves. In the forenoon Ralph, Lula, Melvin, Melvin’s little girl, and niece of Lula’s came by briefly. They had come to decorate all our graves. Floy went home soon after lunch. I did enjoy her visit so very much and for her it seemed a real homecoming.

 

May 31, 1956

Rained a little and turned very cold. Winnie Branen, Betty Pruitt, & I started work on our club year books.

 

June 1, 1956

Another cold day. We did some more hard work on the year book. The wheat is coming in – not the real harvest rush, but the beginning. Trucks lined up for a block before the elevators. It is turning out pretty good in spite of the drought. That good October rain!

 

June 2, 1956

Still cold. And still more wheat coming in. I cleaned the house a little – not very much for it wasn’t dirty now that the dust no longer blows. I am having company tomorrow lovely Mrs. DeVore from O.C.

 

June 3, 1956

Rained last night – good rain except for the harvest. I went to the E. & R. church. Mrs. Congdon and the Brysons went too. The Drapers for some reason were not at church today. It made me very sad to go past the little church that has been mine since 1899. There is a new minister – a retired man from Crescent named Wiggins. No preacher at the E. & R. but wonderful S.S. class taught by Wilmer Schaefer. In P.M. I went to Hennessey & met the bus with Mrs. DeVore. Gladys Cassiday went along.

 

June 4, 1956

Had a wonderful visit with Mrs. DeVore. In the morning we drove around to see the wheat. She loves the prairie as much as I do. In the late P.M. I took her to the bus at Hennessey. On the way we stopped and watched a combine. She was greatly interested.

 

June 5, 1956

It rained again last night. but they started combining before the day Stopped the combining. We spent another P.M. working hard on the year book.

 

June 6, 1956

I wrote letters all day. Winnie couldn’t work on the year book today. In the evening I went to lodge, Memorial service. About sixteen Kingfisher Rebeckas were there. Our own crowd small because of the harvest.

 

June 7, 1956

Very slight rain last night. Wheat continuing to turn out well. A surprise to everybody. We were afraid of a complete failure like last year’s. We finished the yearbook today and I started typing it.

 

June 8, 1956

Drove to Stillwater today to see my poor Kathleen. She is smiling and bright as ever but has failed so pitiably. On the way back a bad looking cloud was in front of me but I drove fast and cut through the north edge instead of the center. It looked bad off the southwest. Later I learned a small tornado struck north of Cresent [sic]. It barely sprinkled in Marshall.

 

June 9, 1956

Cleaned up the house and baked a cake. May have company Monday.

 

June 10, 1956

Went again to E. & R. church. I have never enjoyed a S.S. class as I do this one. August Burchardt taught it today. Bill Shaefer’s mother-in-law very ill. The Brysons, Alice Draper (Leo absent because of harvest) and I all sat together. New minister, Dean Miller, ordained last Sun. Fine young man.

 

June 11, 1956

Met some good friends of last summer’s CWF [?] camp (Mrs. Goodwin, Mrs. Sharp, Mrs. Wilson, Mrs. –) at Draper’s station. I left my car there & we went to Stillwater and I showed them the library. I hoped they would come on to Marshall and visit me in my home, but they had to get back. They live in O.C.

 

June 12, 1956

I finished my typing of the club year book.

 

June 13, 1956

I worked on a review of an awful book America’s Concentration Camps. Then drove to Stillwater to look up some things in the library. Stopped to see Kathleen. She was in her chair while her mother made her bed. Cheerful and alert as ever but so terribly wasted. Nothing to her when she is sitting up. Went to lodge in the evening.

 

June 14, 1956

Wrote another review – or rather a guest column for Tulsa World. Did it so I should have a chance to swat that book. Have been working very hard trying to get started on my survey tomorrow but got letter today of some lectures at Stillwater Monday, and so decided to wait till Tues.

 

June 15, 1956

Had some more work to do on my reviews – also some extra writing – so didn’t get done till afternoon. Then went to work furiously on a new house dress. Paper told us to quit using water only for house.

 

June 16, 1956

Almost finished my dress today (all but sewing on fasteners). Worked pretty hard. Carried 14 pails of water I pumped from the cistern and put on roses, etc. Hoped they might live through while I am gone. Terrible day – high, dry, dusty wind.

 

June 17, 1956

Went to S.S. & church at E. & R. Grace Goodman came up from Guthrie & spent the day with me. After she was gone I tried to do all the things to get ready to start on my survey Tues. morning. Got too tired & found too much to do decided to wait till Wed. Very hot day.

 

June 18, 1956

Drove to Stillwater this morning. Stopped at the Garretts (didn’t see Kathleen but she called to me). Heard lectures on Woodrow Wilson by Dr. Arthur Stanley Link. Ate lunch with history faculty. Dinner and another W.W. lecture at Stu. Union – historians from all over state. In P.M. had lovely visit with Writers’ Club members at Wise home. Am staying there.

 

June 19, 1956

Visited till middle of forenoon with Geneva Wise. Then drove home and spent all P.M. & evening getting ready to start on my trip. No wonder I couldn’t do all of it Sunday after Grace left. My bag is all packed—also my writing- material. Hot day.

 

June 20, 1956

Drove to Anadarko this A.M. Talked with fine young woman (Mrs. Thompson) at agency relocation office. Mr. Ahtone not there. I am convinced they are handling it well. Then I tried to see agri. & home dem. agents for Inds. but they were out. Talked with Mr. Kirk who is in charge of education. He impressed me as pleasant and intelligent.

 

June 21, 1956

Had interview with Mr. Ahtone. Kiowa. Fine. Then went out to Riverside school. Got facts on recent sale of dairy cattle & equipment, turkeys, & chickens. Seems silly to me – or rather seems wicked. Drove to Mt. View to see Robt. Goombi, but failed. Came back & talked to a fbd [?] Kiowa, Mr. Paddlety who works in welfare office. He says some people formerly on relief are doing well thru relocation. Visited Ind. museum.

 

June 22, 1956

Came to Lawton. Talked to Mr. Provence, agri. agent for Inds. Then with Mrs. Provence went out to see some of his Inds. Stopped at cemetery at Post. Oak Mission where Parker family is buried. It will soon be moved to give more room for Ft. Sill gunnery. Too bad!

 

June 23, 1956

Had date for this evening, so sort of waited around. Went up to see Sam Haogous [?] but his hearing too bad. In evening Mrs. Lawrence & Mr. Stevens of state extension service came and took me out to a picnic with her Kiowa people – met one fine family. Then they took me for a wonderful visit with Mrs. Birdsong at Quanah Parker’s house.

 

June 24, 1956

Drove to Mt. View Ind. Baptist church. Services at 11 – a Seneca named Barry E. Songo pastor. Had dinner with the Goombi’s. S.S. in P.M. Greatly impressed with the intelligent spiritually sensitive comments of women in S.S. class. Mr. Goombi is fine – he gave me a shrewd interpretation of Ind. situation. Tourist court at Carnegie.

 

June 25, 1956

Stayed over because Mr. Goombi wanted me to attend a meeting with a man from Wash. – a Mr. Beck. Talked with a no. of Inds. at Anadarko. At meeting Beck outlined a plan to bring industry to Okla. & employ Ind. labor. Inds. very happy about it.

 

June 26, 1956

Drove to Clinton – talked with Mr. Woodrow Wilson. Also with Mrs. Burgess & she took me to Mennonite mission to visit Friezans. Staying in Clinton. She will take me to Hammond camp tomorrow.

 

June 27, 1956

Spent most of the day at the squalid camp talking to Cheyennes there. Came back to Clinton, picked up my car and drove as far as tourist court near Bridgeport. A very frightening wind came up in late evening and we all went to the storm cellar. It rained a little.

 

June 28, 1956

Drove up to Watonga – Indian extension office locked – no note on door. Came back to Geary visited with Jim & Emma Kerr till p.m. Talked with the McElhaneys. In evening Jim took family & me out to Jesse Chisholm’s grave. Am staying with Kerrs. They have fine sons & 2 beautiful granddaughters.

 

June 29, 1956

Drove to Concho this morning- had very satisfactory interviews with Dr. Ponoc & Mr. Ellison. Got to O.C. middle of P.M. So hot I knocked off work. Am staying with Mrs. DeVore. Met her sister & husband, the Bloodworths, also Dr. & Mrs. Langston, their daughter Mrs. Riley, and her fine 13-mo.-old boy. Fine people.

 

June 30, 1956

Woke greatly rested. Had fine interview with Anna Wright. She has fine husband and beautiful daughter, sweet granddaughter. Reached home shortly after noon. Found all my roses alive. There had been 2 rains (one ½ in.) while I was gone.

 

July 1, 1956

Went to E. & R. Church as usual but missed S.S. because they have set the time an hour earlier. Learned Katherine Burchardt ill in O.C. She had an operation which she was recovering from nicely, but it gave her a nervous breakdown.

 

July 2, 1956

Worked hard putting my notes in order and in writing letters. A rain collected but went around.

 

July 3, 1956

More letters, mainly today about the proposed desecration of Poast [?] Oak cemetery and Quanah Parker house by the army’s supposed need for more firing range. Probably it is a lost cause.

 

July 4, 1956

More letter writing. We had a hot dry June and July is continuing. What I spent most time on today was writing to help Mr. Goombi out of a constitutional difficulty of the Kiowa-Comanche-Apache tribal organization.

 

July 5, 1956

I drove to Stillwater to see dear Kathleen. I called the house in the morning and Mrs. G. said four o’clock. I waited till four but she was asleep. I am thankful she can rest. I accomplished a lot during the day – collected notes for a D. A. B. article on W.W. Hastings and best of all happened to find a sectional bookcase in a 2 hand store. I brought it home in my car. Bad dust storm this evening.

 

July 6, 1956

Wrote more letters about various Indian matters. It was hard to keep from dropping everything and rearrange all my books. I have needed more space for a longtime – have books stacked in the porch closet. It is impossible to buy a new book case. They do not make them any more. And all the old ones are snapped up as soon as they appear in the stores.

 

July 7, 1956

I finished my writing and got my papers all ready to start out on the east (Five Civilized Tribes) half of my Indian survey. Bad duststorm came this evening – cyclonic threat of tornado but didn’t form a funnel. Wind intensely hot came with the cloud and dust – got slightly cooler by 10:30.

 

July 8, 1956

Went to S.S. & church at E. & R. Enjoyed it though we all felt limp from last night’s storm of dust and heat. In the evening they had 1^st quarterly conference at the Methodist church – poor little group trying to decided what to do. I couldn’t keep back the tears when I heard the singing – especially when they sang “Take my life, and let it be” etc. Which they practiced as a special member at my baptism in 1902.

 

July 9, 1956

Wrote some more. Went to see the E. & R. pastor and told requested him to ask for transfer of my church membership. Had nice visit with Hazel Hearn Nance who was in my high school class. She is young and vital.

 

July 10, 1956

Cloudy this forenoon – cool all day. So pleasant to have relief from the heat – if it would only rain.

 

July 11, 1956

Went to Stillwater – saw Kathleen, changed tragically since last time – her old smile out of a face that is barely a shadow. Don’t think she will live a month. In P.M. started for Bartlesville. Terribly hot. Staying with Brian and Louise Harpster – Bless them. They took me to see the Price Tower and other sights of Bartlesville.

 

July 12, 1956

Spent morning seeing Mr. Keeler Ty Cobb, and Frank Muskrat. Got ticket for overparking – first ticket I ever got, not first time I overparked. Drove to Jay in P.M. Staying in Blue Jay Courts – Truebloods, owners. Learned the Nelsons are in Yellowstone. Very hot.

 

July 13, 1956

Went around with Watie Goodwin to visit some of his Indian farmers. Talked with a number of people. The poverty of these Cherokees is enough to break one’s heart. Saw cloud in n.w. yesterday evening – learned it was a tornado & did much damage in Miami.

 

July 14, 1956

Learned Nelsons came home last night. Saw a number of people this morning at courthouse – public welfare. Talked this P.M. with Mrs. Chuculate [?], wife of Methodist Indian minister. Had nice visit with Nelsons & Mr. Starr in afternoon.

 

July 15, 1956

Went to church with Wynona Nelson – ate dinner at Nelson home. Dear old Mr. Starr there. Had hot afternoon drive to Stilwell, one of my favorite towns. People at tourist court very nice.

 

July 16, 1956

Talked to Mr. Ames, who is in charge of relocation – also an Ind. names Chaney – and another named Chuculate [?]. Learned a shy boy named Kenny Vann is being sent to Los Angeles on relocation. Called Burton Halsted to meet him at Union Station in K.C., where he has two hour [sic] wait.

 

July 17, 1956

Mr. N Saw Mr. Wofford, who is on Cherokee tribal council. Also Charley Ross and a fbd. pres. of county Credit Assn., from Barron [?]. Also county agent for Inds. – nice boy named .... Drove to Muskogee – staying with dear Mrs. Foreman (Talked to Cherokee woman who fixed my hair at Stilwell.)

July 18, 1956

Spent day at agency in office of Mrs. Hull. They let me see all the records. Also I saw Mrs. Croom about scholarships, etc. and Mr. Herndon about loans. Very good day. Another fine visit with Mrs. Foreman this evening.

 

July 19, 1956

Drove to Holdenville where I am in same good tourist camp where I stayed in ’49. It rained all the way from Eufaula on – fine rain. This coolness is a great relief from the burning heat. Spent P.M. talking to Mr. Feighny to whom I talked in ’49.

 

July 20, 1956

Drove to Seminole and talked with Mr. Grounds. Then went out of my way to Sapulpa to talk with Mr. Frank. Pretty hot and I drove hard & was tired when I reached home at 5. Found we had had no rain & three of my roses had died. Intended to stop at Stillwater and see Kathleen but was frightened at a cloud and raced through.

 

July 21, 1956

Cleaned my house, feeling it was a waste of time, but I can stand only so much dust. And then we had a fine shower this evening – about one inch. A terrifying clap of thunder. I learned later it struck Lonnie Goodnight’s chimney and shattered it but did no other damage.

 

July 22, 1956

Went to S.S. and church. Will transfer my membership (along with several other Methodists) next Sunday. Wonderful cool cloudy day. Rained again this evening but not so much as yesterday.

 

July 23, 1956

Beautiful cool day. No rain, however, and I am afraid it will clear up. I made cake for supper at E. & R. church tomorrow. Tho’t I should use the oven while it is cool.

 

July 24, 1956

Drove out and told Jack Cassiday some of us are joining E. & R. church next Sunday – also Dick & Della Clark. Talked a little to the Drapers. This evening attended reception and “pounding” for new minister on church lawn. Beautiful cool evening, good crowd, all friendly. One of pleasantest parties I ever attended.

 

July 25, 1956

Getting warmer. This evening I attended Rebekah lodge where I was installed as “conductor” and carried out my duties very awkwardly. Perhaps I’ll learn.

 

July 26, 1956

Hot again. I had thought I would drive to Stillwater earlier this week to see Kathleen since I drove thru without seeing her Friday. But I will be there Saturday on way to Otoe-Missouria camp ground.

 

July 27, 1956

Hot again. Tomorrow I am going to an Otoe-Missouria celebration to celebrate passage of Indian Claims Commission Act under which they won $1¼ million. I am representing Assn. on Am. Ind. Aff. For Pres. Oliver LaFarge who can’t attend. There will be dinner with Pres. Willham at Student Union, then drive to camp grounds for program at two.

 

July 28, 1956

Stopped at Garrett home. Learned my dear Kathleen died the night of July 18-19. Began homorhage [sic] Mon. evening, was taken to hospital and died Wednesday night. Her poor mother talked very freely with me. They had no way of knowing where I was. If I had only stopped when I passed thru town I could have seen her and gone to the funeral Sat. morning 9 I went on to the dinner and the celebration. Very tired tonight.

 

July 29, 1956

This is the morning ten of us transferred our membership to the E. & R. church. But the Methodist church still goes on though deprived of much of its leadership. Up to the present we have not succeeded in our attempt to unite the two churches. Everybody at the E. and R. Church was most cordial and pleasant. I know we shall like them, but our decision was hard.

 

July 30, 1956

Just more hot weather. I am trying to catch up on my necessary writing.

 

July 31, 1956

Drove to Stillwater to see Mrs. Garrett. While I was there I had my car washed, waxed, & polished; oil changed and grease job; tank filled. The works. Cost $19+. While there I spent the time in the library – attended farewell luncheon for the Dickys, who are going to O.U.

 

August 1, 1956

Pretty hot weather but I am finding my house so nice and cool – much different from my apartment at Stillwater.

 

August 2, 1956

I marvel at how cool my house is in this severe heat. There is always a cool breeze at night and I have my house open. Then in the morning I close it and it stays cool all day I keep a fan on to circulate the air. Then in the evening I open it up and let in the cool breeze. At night I always need cover.

 

August 3, 1956

Drove to Stillwater for Phi Kappa Phi dinner. Saw my nice boy Tom Moyer among the initiates. Mr. George White spoke on Protagoras (morals etc. are relative) or Socrates (search for truth). Am staying with Elsie Shoemaker.

 

August 4, 1956

When I drove back in the middle of the forenoon I struck such a blast of hot wind and dust when I came up on the prairie (intersection of highways 51 & 74) that I thought I should have my house air conditioned. It was surprisingly cool in my house all day but even so I should prepare Protection against this heat.

 

August 5, 1956

Went to church – stayed at home rest of day. My house is cold but we are having terrible weather – temperature running up to 110° over the state. Probably about that here.

 

August 6, 1956

Heat still bad. Was 112° at Kingfisher. Probably about the same here. My house was cool all day. I typed steadily without getting warm. Finished an article I hope. Harper’s will take about proposed desecration of  Quanah Parker sites.

 

August 7, 1956

Cleaned my house a little anticipating visit from Halsteds Fri. or Sat. Mr. Wahrenberg came and did a little beginning work on my wiring for the cooler.

 

August 8, 1956

Mr. Wahrenberg and August B worked all day on changes in wiring. Then August Burchardt helped him put in the cooler. I went to lodge this evening. Very hot day – hot in house because it was open much of the time.

 

August 9, 1956

Mr. W did some more work on the wiring. (He had cut off one light wire to cellar and closet not knowing it was there.) I am afraid I had the cooler put in the wrong room – too cold in my study, too hot elsewhere. Very bad dust storm this evening.

 

August 10, 1956

Drove to O. C. this P.M. met Mrs. Messner who brought the Halsteds as passengers on a visit she is making her sister. I took them in my car and we drove to Ranger Courts out from El Reno to spend the night. We are all in one cabin having a wonderful visit. Terribly hot this P.M. – cool this A.M.

 

August 11, 1956

Drove to Anadarko. Got place at tourist court. Then visited Indian City  and museum, watched parade (very fine), and attended pageant (fine also) in evening. Very interesting day. Fine visit and rest intervals at tourist court.

 

August 12, 1956

Drove home this morning. Reached here about noon. I had cold fried chicken, cake, etc. all ready. We spent P.M. in visiting. All rather sleepy. It was about midnight when we got in last night.

 

August 13, 1956

We drove to Perry this A.M. The Halsteds wanted to get some pottery to take back as presents. Burton also got (and later installed) a side view mirror he thought I should like on my car. Terribly hot day.

 

August 14, 1956

Mrs. Messner came up from the City and picked up the Halsteds. They got off at 7:30. How I did enjoy them. Burton got a fine promotion recently and so could not take much time off, but we made the best of our short visit. Still very hot.

 

August 15, 1956

Went to lodge this evening. I neglected to make entry and so I can’t think of other happenings.

 

August 16, 1956

I believe this was the day I drove to Stillwater to see Mrs. Garrett. She was not at home and I stayed and worked at the library.

 

August 17, 1956

It is a good thing I got my cooler. This intense heat is baking everything so that the house does not cool off at night as it usually does. It would have been hard to keep the house comfortable all day by closing it up in the morning.

 

August 18, 1956

Young Norman Diboard has been trying to dig a well in his back yard. He happened to see the old pump on my place and got very interested. I told him he could fix it and he did. We got water. Even I am excited about it. Dust storm this evening. Hot as usual.

 

August 19, 1956

It rained about ¼ inch last night and is delightfully cool. Thermometer dropped from 106 to 66. I went to church. Everybody happy. I tasted the water in our well (it is still soily) and I think it is so gyppy nobody can drink it. Norman is too young to remember that our early Marshall wells were no good.

 

August 20, 1956

Sun shone in a blue sky. Really cold today – too cold for comfort. I pumped a lot of water and threw it on the flowers. I never had much hope but Norman had thought if there was water in the well all the neighbors could drink it. We can’t drink the city water or even use it for flowers because an oil company threw salt water in our pond. I cleaned my house.

 

August 21, 1956

The Carl Diedrichs had their sale today and the E. & R. women served lunch. I enjoyed working with them. It was cold again today – really cold. I watered the plants again, though It is nice to have water even though we can’t drink it. I get drinking water in a bottle from August Burchardt’s well.

 

August 22, 1956

I ironed today – fine shirts, etc. that I used early in June and thought it too hot to iron them. Ironed steadily half a day and did not heat up the house. The sun shines warm but the nights are cold. I went to lodge.

 

August 23, 1956

Warm again but still cooler at night. I doubt that it will get up again to 108°, 110°, 114° and such temperatures.

 

August 24, 1956

Nothing happened I guess. I neglected to make entry. Joan Cassiday and Pearl Sample were here this evening while we decided on games for a lodge picnic next week. I am finding my cooler very useful.

 

August 25, 1956

I got good news today – that Harper’s will use my article about the Parker house and cemetery. It may halt the desecration even yet. I went to Covington this morning to see about the final work on printing the club year book.

 

August 26, 1956

Went to S.S. and church. It is very inspiring to be a member of that fine congregation even though I am still unhappy about the poor little Methodist bunch. It is so cool these mornings I don’t use my cooler till noon. I shut the house so the heat can’t get in.

 

August 27, 1956

I worked on the report of my survey of relocation for the Assn. on Am. Ind. Aff. Mr. Sigler died of cancer early this morning – had had symptoms, which he neglected, but became really ill only this summer. Poor Margaret.

 

August 28, 1956

I sent off my report – also a life of W.W. Hastings for the D.A.B. This evening it rained – about an inch, some wind and hail but no damage. It really cleaned the roof but just as I decided the water was clear enough to run it into my dry cistern it stopped raining.

 

August 29, 1956

Clear and bright (I wish it could rain again). It got hot and sultry in the P.M. Mr. Sigler’s funeral was held today in the Methodist church. In the evening I went to family night at the E. & R. church – cakes and ice cream and much good talk.

 

August 30, 1956

Winnie Branen and Betty Pruitt were here to plan our luncheon for the Marshall Woman’s Club Sept. 11.

 

August 31, 1956

Oh, dear. Another dust storm! And after I cleaned my house. A red wind flew hard from the north so thick the sun was obscured all forenoon. Then it cleared off and got rather cool. The Rebeckas had a picnic for the Odd Fellows. Planned it outdoors but had it in the hall.

 

September 1, 1956

Cold this morning – cool all day. I cleaned house (as did all the women). Sewed in afternoon.

 

September 2, 1956

Taught August Burchardt’s S.S. class. (He is delegate to General Synod.) Fine class. I wore my light suit to church but most women wore summer clothes, I am cold blooded. But it was a cold day.

 

September 3, 1956

I am ill this evening. Felt sure I had a fever – so took my temperature. It was 101°. Not bad but I am ill. I can’t imagine why. Warm again. [Later. I had drunk used some boiled water from my cistern. Sent sample to state lab & they said unsafe to drink. I think that was what made me sick.]

 

September 4, 1956

Ill and fevered all night. Spent all day in bed. Warm enough so I used the air conditioner. I feel better this evening as though the upset  were over. [Later, my cistern water was clean but had stood there four or five years. I think that was what made me sick.]

 

September 5, 1956

Woke feeling much better, but very weak! Got a little, stronger towards evening and washed two days’ accumulation of dishes. This evening a bad dust storm came up, but it managed to rain some – I should say ¼ inch.

 

September 6, 1956

Cold day. I lighted my furnace. Thought why freeze just because it is early in the fall? This P.M. a young man named Goodwin who is a grad. student at Harvard came to talk with me about writing a life of Pleasant Porter for his dissertation. This morning I prepared somethings to take to the community fair – antique division.

 

September 7, 1956

Our community fair is in full swing. I worked today on proofs of my Quanah Parker article for Harper’s. No, wrong, I wro did it last night and mailed it this morning. I visited with Margaret Sigler and her handsome son, my beloved Charles.

 

September 8, 1956

I am not getting much done these days – slow about getting my strength back. It is still cold so I use the furnace all morning.

 

September 9, 1956

I taught August’s class again today. From here on he will take over himself. I wore a light wrap at church and noticed some others were doing the same. I used the furnace only until church time. Cool but not cold this P.M.

 

September 10, 1956

The weather must have been just right for I used neither my furnace nor my cooler today.

 

September 11, 1956

First club meeting of year – luncheon at Winnie Branen’s lovely house with Winnie, Verna Rae Schaefer, Betty Pruitt & I as cooks. All members present but Katherine Burchardt, who is away with August. Fine meeting and nice luncheon if I do say so as shouldn’t. Getting a little warm – not bad.

 

September 12, 1956

Sept. 13 – Sept. 12 on Sept. 14 Dreadful day – high wind, dust, heat. The Burchardt’s came back this evening August was delegate to General Synod of church. He was on nominating committee, and put up my name (and won) as member of commission on higher education. I am appalled. All my own experience has been with state schools.

 

September 13, 1956

Sept. 14. Hot day. We are getting into the fall so it is nice and cool at night and early part of day. I used my cooler in the afternoon. Decided to take the church job, partly because I think so much of August, partly because Dr. Harold K. Schilling was elected also.

 

September 14, 1956

Sept 12 It is getting hot again. I went to Stillwater. Did some buying – 2 pr. Shoves, hose, material for pajamas. Went to see Mrs. Garrett – in fact that was my real reason for going. Went to lodge this evening. Very small crowd.

 

September 15, 1956

Terrible day – high hot wind. Some roses I have been trying to keep alive crumpled under it. They were in the shade but when the wind struck it killed the leaves till they hung perfectly dry. Same of clematis – leaves and tender shoots dry and dead. I should have covered them.

 

September 16, 1956

I went to church and S.S. It is hot today but does not do so much damage as yesterday’s burning wind. In the P.M. I went to O.C. with the Stillwater Writer’s Club. We gave a program for the Okla. Writers.

 

September 17, 1956

It was cloudy this morning and some showers formed east of us. I drove to my farm near Okeene and Mr. Krause and I went to Watonga and signed up for soil bank. It seems the best thing to do. The law is political and I am not going to be bribed but it is the law.

 

September 18, 1956

[Got the news Sept. 22 that Aunt Helen died at 10:30 P.M. Sept. 18.]

 

September 19, 1956

Failed to make entry, but I know I went to lodge. Most all this week was terribly hot, often a hot wind blowing.

 

September 20, 1956

[No entry]

 

September 21, 1956

[No entry]

 

September 22, 1956

Cleaned my house slightly (hitting only the high places for it is so dusty a real cleaning is futile) and baked a cake for Mrs. Garrett and Mary Graves are coming to visit me tomorrow. Got word Aunt Helen died – buried today.

 

September 23, 1956

It was cooler today – some clouds this morning. Went to church & S.S. Mrs. G. and Mary came about 11:30. I enjoyed them very much. Lovely people, both of them. It made me miss Kathleen more than ever.

 

September 24, 1956

Worked on an article for The American Indian. Olga Schaefer and Hulda Weber called. I did some things getting ready for club tomorrow.

 

September 25, 1956

Club at Patsy Pollard’s. Good papers but small attendance. Some stayed in town to attend open house for Mrs. Darling’s 92nd birthday. My carload dropped in after we returned from club. Katherine Burchardt rode with me and I found to my distress that she has not entirely recovered from the nervous breakdown that followed too sever an operation in June.

 

September 26, 1956

Should be Sept. 27 Hugh O’Neill died in his sleep last night. It is pretty hard on Romaine. But I have come to believe people on the verge of old age (Hugh in late 60’s) are fortunate when they go quickly. (Sept. 27 entry here. Sept 26 on Sept 28 page.) I sent my article to American Indian. Sept. 27.

 

September 27, 1956

Should be Sept. 28 I baked a cake, etc. Didn’t clean my house much for a hot dust-filled wind blew all day. In the evening Kent Ruth and his sister came from Geary to spend the night with me.

 

September 28, 1956

Worked on my article. In the evening went to lodge. Am staying overnight with Katherine Burchardt because August is at a church meeting in K.C.

 

September 29, 1956

The Ruths and I spent the day on the road, measuring distances, etc. to points of intersect between Mannford and Stillwater for the revised Oklahoma Guide he is working on. Terrible day – high, hot wind and dust. I got tired, no doubt they got more tired than I for they had to drive home to Geary.

 

September 30, 1956

Rally day at S.S. – fine service, but no lesson. Dr. Perry Smith preached. Council consistory council conference meeting in P.M. – dinner at night. A full day. Dr. Smith comes from the council of the general synod – sort of promotion secretary. Weather cooler.

 

October 1, 1956

A book, Across the Cimarron, came for me to review for the N.Y. Times. I spent most of the day reading it. It is n.g. Weather cooler, but how desperately we need rain!

 

October 2, 1956

Worked at correspondence, etc.

 

October 3, 1956

Went to Woman’s Guild at church with Katherine Burchardt. I led the lesson in her place to save her strength. She was happy and completely relaxed. I went to lodge this evening. I was appointed chairmen of the guild’s Social Action Committee. Alice Draper co-chairman.

 

October 4, 1956

Wrote my review but thought I needed a quotation of which I am not sure – So planned to go to Stillwater tomorrow to get it.

 

October 5, 1956

Spent the day in the A.&M. library. Got my wheels & U joint packed and anti freeze [sic] in car. The latter seems unnecessary for I am still using my air conditioner every afternoon.

 

October 6, 1956

Another bad day of wind and dust. But the wind was from the north and all at once this evening it started getting cooler. Hot all day. I got my review off.

 

October 7, 1956

So cool this morning I used the furnace a little while. Warm in afternoon. Mission festival at the church – pot luck dinner (and what a dinner!); then cake, fried afternoon service; then cake, fruit and coffee; then dishwashing. It was five P.M. when we left, I enjoyed it all.

 

October 8, 1956

Earl Casteel came and pumped the residue of water out of my cistern. If it ever rains I will fill it for drinking. An oil company has poured saltwater in our city lake so we can’t drink it. We go to wells and fill bottles, etc.

 

October 9, 1956

Went to Stillwater (took Winnie Branen, Mrs. Orr, Katherine Burchardt) for all-day district convention of woman’s clubs. Fine program. Came home rejoicing because our club won 1st place in clubs under 25 members on its report; rated superior (blue ribbon) on year book and excellent (red ribbon) on press book.

 

October 10, 1956

Sort of rested today because I am to speak at Geary, ninety miles away, tomorrow. Didn’t go to lodge.

 

October 11, 1956

Drove to Geary and spoke to a woman’s club on Okla. history. Had nice visit with Emma Barnes. Same weather – cool in morning, hot in afternoon, wind and dust.

 

October 12, 1956

Got a new book to review and worked on it today – beautiful book but not important historically – “The Old West Speaks.” I needed the cooler today but didn’t use it. Disgusted at needing it this time of year, I have never actually stopped using it the till today. Some days it is not needed.

 

October 13, 1956

August Burchardt came and put the winter cover on my cooler. If I need it now I will get along with fans. May not need it. We had a nice shower this P.M.  First for many weeks. Paper says O.C. has had only 15.34 in. during 1956 and they have had much more than we have.

 

October 14, 1956

Went to church (communion service). Taught my new S.S. class. Wonderful class, from high school graduation [?] 30. Most of them college students. I drove to Tulsa in P.M. – followed a rain all the way over – 2 in. in Tulsa, but no rain at Marshall. Am staying with Floy Cobb. Wonderful visit.

 

October 15, 1956

Spoke at noon meeting to Will Rogers Rotary Club – they wanted history so I told them Quanah Parker story and impending desecration of historic Parker sites by the army. Am staying over – enjoying my visit with Floy. A little rain off and on.

 

October 16, 1956

Drove home this morning. Found it had not rained since Saturday at Marshall. It just can’t rain here. Much of state got good moisture – but not us. Stopped at Stillwater to see the Uzzell’s about a promise I made to speak to their church Sunday. Mr. U. gave me a MS to read.

 

October 17, 1956

I neglected to make entry. Suppose I spent most of time reading a fine book A Sioux Chronicle by Geo. E. Hyde to review for N.Y. Times. Also read on Mr. Uzzell’s manuscript which is a fictionalized account of the Osage murders.

 

October 18, 1956

Drove to Stillwater this afternoon. Met Bible reading class at cafeteria where we ate together, then to Anna Olursler’s for birthday cake and cards in honor of Helen Graves, Mrs. Garrett, and Mrs. Ward. Then Bible reading. Am staying with Grace De Motte.

 

October 19, 1956

Got my review of “The Old West Speaks” all about finished.

 

October 20, 1956

Got my review off and worked a little on a talk on the Indians’ plight under the present administration to be given to Unitarians tomorrow.

 

October 21, 1956

Lovely drive over here to Stillwater in cool morning. Church service was at 10. I spoke better than usual. Then many of congregation and I went to cafeteria for lunch. Then ha an informal discussion at in one of the conference rooms at student union.

 

October 22, 1956

Worked on review of A Sioux Chronicle. Also did much telephoning for club. Elsie Schaefer’s mother died Sunday, will be buried have funeral Tues. at hour of our club meeting. We tried to change date but found too many conflicts.

 

October 23, 1956

Club at Katherine Burchardt’s. meeting small because of Elsie’s mothers [sic] funeral at Pawnee – the three Schaefers absent, also Mary Miller, the minister’s wife. After club Katherine and I drove around on some business for the guild workshop in O.C.

 

October 24, 1956

Also got relocation report from Assn. on Am. Ind. Aff. which I am supposed to work over. It will have to wait till next week. Wrote my review of Hyde’s book, and mailed it . Got letter that Burton and Dorine Halsted, Nellie, and daughter Caroline, and Pearl are coming Friday and will pick me up to spend Sat. & Sun. in the Wichitas. Wonderful! But I could use more time.

 

October 25, 1956

Went to O.C. to workship [sic] of Woman’s Guild – all day meeting. I spoke on Indians to Katherine’s section in the forenoon. Then attended my own section in P.M. I rode down in Rev. Dean Miller’s car. Terrible dust and wind.

 

October 26, 1956

Worked fast and furious to clean out the dust from yesterday. No time to do more than hit high places. They were to come at 2 P.M. and we were to drive to Lawton. But it was 4 when they arrived and so we stayed here. We are all in high spirits having a wonderful time undiminished by my lack of preparation.

 

October 27, 1956

Drove to Cache and on into the mts. to top of Mt. Scott. Saw buffalo and longhorns. Staying in Geronimo Motel. Got wonderful accommodations – two rooms, three beds for $10. Even cooking provisions- dishes, refrigerator, stove – but too tired to use them.

 

October 28, 1956

Drove through mts. again all morning. It rained some. Saw, deer & prairie dogs. Then in P.M. took  Nellie, Pearl, and Caroline through Indian City at Anadarko. Got home rather tired. (No rain here.) Ate bacon and scrambled eggs and got ready for bed early.

 

October 29, 1956

My company left this morning. I put the beds and everything back. Was tired and so didn’t start on the relocation report. (They left without breakfast because we ate all the food last night. Also on the trip.) Cloudy day.

 

October 30, 1956

I worked hard on my relocation report. Will mail it tomorrow morning. It rained last night. I was asleep and didn’t know it. I think less than ½ inch.

 

October 31, 1956

Worked on letters and other business. Went to lodge but we didn’t meet because the town is having a Halloween [sic] party on Main Street for the children.

 

November 1, 1956

Should have worked hard but didn’t. Rather I washed curtains when I should have been writing. Then when I got them stretched I found those in the living and dining room had so many holes I decided to buy new ones. But I put them up.

 

November 2, 1956

Another day of high wind and dust. I didn’t accomplish much in writing. Ironed the bedroom curtains and when the wind quieted a little I put them up. Ordered from Sears Roebuck for the living & dining rooms. Got extravagant and paid $3.98 each. It is turning cold.

 

November 3, 1956

I washed the towels, etc. I used when the company was here – good things I don’t send out. Wasted the rest of the day. Am quite worried over Near East situation – and so in hopes the brave Hungarians will win their freedom. Sprinkling a little.

 

November 4, 1956

It rained most of the day – beautiful soft rain that went straight down. Everybody happy about it. I went to church. Taught my S.S. class but did very badly.

 

November 5, 1956

It cleared up today – beautiful soft clouds rolling back from a blue sky. We wanted it to keep on raining. We got about 1 inch yesterday. I let some in my cistern. I am writing a statement of a good Indian policy for Okla. to be submitted to the Assn. on Am. Ind. Aff. in N.Y. Nov. 20.

 

November 6, 1956

Fog this morning, but cleared soon. I guess our rain is over. I worked hard and got my Indian statement out on the P.M. mail. Not surprised but distressed over the Eisenhower victory. People like his pleasant smile and evident good will and they do not know he has no idea about his supposed job. This is a dangerous time to have no president.

 

November 7, 1956

Nov. 8 – See Nov. 9 Light frost this morning – barely visible on roofs. I drove to Wewoka – beautiful drive – all the trees in brightest colors. Met with Indian (Creek and Cherokee) Seminole) leaders in Sand Creek church. They are asking help in their problems from the Assn. on Am. Ind. Aff. I was greatly impressed by their seriousness. Staying at Wewoka Switch Motel.

 

November 8, 1956

Froze hard – ice on pools. I drove back this morning. Have been wasting most of the time since – straightening house, unpacking, etc. I put up my new curtains. They are beautiful.

 

November 9, 1956

Nov. 7 – See Nov. 8 This morning I helped Katherine Burchardt mail tuberculosis Christmas seals. In afternoon I went to Guild. I enjoy those women very much. Lodge in evening. Very small attendance.

 

November 10, 1956

I really cleaned my house thankful that the dust is apparently over. (I could have cleaned it any day after last Sunday but had no time.) My new curtains ordered from Sears Roebuck are up – and beautiful. I got expensive orlon lace but I expect them to last the rest of my life.

 

November 11, 1956

Taught my S.S. class and went to church. This is the day (in the afternoon) of the every member canvass and so August Burchardt and Don Hoffman called on me – financial pledge, etc. I like the fine system they use in this church. No wonder it is strong.

 

November 12, 1956

Wrote letters, etc. connected with Indian business.

 

November 13, 1956

Woman’s Club met at my house. Good meeting but weather very bad – high wind and dust.

 

November 14, 1956

Made late entry – can’t remember what I did except go to lodge in evening. Oh, yes – I helped Katherine Burchardt mail Xmas seals I guess.

 

November 15, 1956

High cold wind – froze ice and it didn’t melt all day. I went to Stillwater to get a purse – my old one started falling to pieces and I need a decent one for trip to New York this week. Foliage beautiful.

 

November 16, 1956

Frost this morning but beautiful weather. I did some sewing and other odds and ends for my N.Y. trip.

 

November 17, 1956

Beautiful sunny day. This evening August and Katherine Burchardt took me to Perry to the train. It was an hour late, something that seldom happens. I will spend tomorrow in Chicago with Cousin Shirley Worsley and her family.

 

November 18, 1956

I had planned to attend church with the Worsleys but my train was still an hour late. It is cold up here and the trees bare. I spent a wonderful day with Shirley and Ray Worsley and Son John (high school senior). I had never met them before. They are fine people. In the P.M. we saw the Elmhurst Campus. Took night train for New York.

 

November 19, 1956

Reached N.Y. this evening. AM staying at Bla ckstone Blackstone where meeting will be held. Very shabby hotel, though rates are $10 a night. Cold up here. Snow all around Albany. Found much material waiting for me to read before meeting.

 

November 20, 1956

We had our meeting today. I wish we could accomplish some of the things we try to do for the Indians. Meeting was in P.M. In A.M. I went to Assn. headquarters. In evening had dinner at Cosmopolitan Club with Mrs. Joseph Lindon Smith, Dr. Hayes, and La Verne Madigan.

 

November 21, 1956

Started home at 12:50 but freight rain wreck ahead of us held our train up several hours. Holiday passengers very unhappy. I had planned to ride chair car to save money as far as Buffalo, which we would reach in early evening. But it was after one when we got there. Very tired.

 

November 22, 1956

Missed 9:30 train connection at Chicago. Had planned to spend Thanksgiving evening in K.C. with whole Halsted clan. Tried very to make a noon connection, which would have made me late for dinner but brought me there about 9 P.M. Missed that one by 15 min. Called Dorine – sorry to disappoint her – sweet girl. Too tired to look anybody up so stayed in station till night train.

 

November 23, 1956

Good rest last night. Reached K.C. at 7 A.M. Burton met me. Had good visit – and we all slept in P.M. In evening part of Thanksgiving crowd came back to see me – Nellie, Caroline, Willa, & family, Don and family. We ate cold turkey, etc. Then Burton, Dorine, Nellie, & I picked up Pearl down town and drove out to see lights in Plaza. Took Pearl home, visited with Shirley & babies.

 

November 24, 1956

Came home on slow train. The Millers picked me up at Perry. Not too tired, though I was almost dangerously tired that Thanksgiving day in Chicago. August Burchardt’s mother has had a stroke.

 

November 25, 1956

Taught my S.S. class – fine group. Then church. In P.M. at one August had to drive to Crescent to get ambulance to take mother to a different sister’s home Katherine went to take car back & get prescription filled but drug store wouldn’t open till [?] 9. I went along to keep her company. We called on several people and drove around tow in country. Leaves beautiful.

 

November 26, 1956

Don’t remember much I did (writing late) except attend to correspondence that piled up. Also got ready for Club tomorrow.

 

November 27, 1956

Club at Elsie Schaefer’s. Best meeting of year. All members present but Mrs. Fox and Estelle Groce. A tree I sent for came – a pin oak. It is a free replacement for one that failed to grow last spring. I already had a big hole dug. Today turned water on it and the ground was so dry it took 3 ½ hours to fill the hole.

 

November 28, 1956

Nov. 29 – see next page Mr. Huffer planted my tree. It is a fine tree – much better than the one they sent last spring. – McGuar came and bought some coal I had – practically gave it away. He offered me five dollars for fully a ton of good coal. I should have refused but let him have it. Just then another man came after it but I had already “sold” it to McG.

 

November 29, 1956

Nov. 28 – See Nov. 28 for Nov. 29. Don’t remember much except it was a cold day and I went to lodge in evening. I have much writing to do.

 

November 30, 1956

Geo. Thornton came to fix a door and a window screen and my eave trough. And Joe Mesar came to fix a cut-off to the hydrant – also a dripping faucet. I believe Geo. started Nov. 29 and finished Nov. 30.

 

December 1, 1956

I did some more writing – principally an answer to an editorial in the Tulsa Tribune. I hope they print it for  I think their editorial will do much harm. The Atlantic Harpers with my article “Two Graves Oklahoma” is now out.

 

December 2, 1956

Taught my S.S. class and attended church. Took dinner with the Pete Fickens. Then I went down with them to attend installation of Mr. Schnider at E. & R. church in O.C. Had a wonderful time. Warm day. Didn’t need fire till late in evening.

 

December 3, 1956

Geo. Thornton and Oliver Seefeldt started tearing down a tumble-down outbuilding on the back of my lot preparing to build a new one.

 

December 4, 1956

Practiced with Rebeckahs for initiation of Alice Jones and Sally Heydeman tomorrow night. I am conductor and I find it hard to keep everything straight.

 

December 5, 1956

Had good visit and lunch with Mr. Shades at schoolhouse. Went to Guild at church in P.M. In evening we had the initiation. The men are working on the building. We are told a cold wave is on the way.

 

December 6, 1956

It started getting cold this P.M. The radio says we shall have sleet. I was going to take the Millers to see the new A.&M. library tomorrow but after listening to the late weather report at 10:30 I called them up and called it off.

 

December 7, 1956

Cold day – cloudy but little sleet falling. I am sorry I got scared and called off the trip. New building finished. My furnace does not heat the house but August says he can fix it. Geo. Thornton got my building finished.

 

December 8, 1956

Thick white layer of sleet covers the ground. I picked my way gingerly down town after the mail but stayed in otherwise. My house is cold but I am staying in my study, which is warmest.

 

December 9, 1956

It melted some today. I walked to church because my car was sleeted in Mrs. Baugh’s garage, where I put it while the men were working on mine.

 

December 10, 1956

It took a good bit of chopping to get my car out. I drove to Covington to get my Xmas letters printed. The roads are clear now, but the door to Mrs. Baugh’s garage is on the north and the sleet did not melt in the shade.

 

December 11, 1956

Went to meeting of Marshall Woman’s Club at Mrs. Branens. Good paper by Winnie Branen but poor attendance Mr. Stuerke was taken to the hospital yesterday morning – his heart. I am afraid he is in a critical condition.

 

December 12, 1956

I got my Xmas letters and spent most of the day typing special messages on then and sending them out. Warm most of the day but turned colder this evening. I did not go to lodge. Pot luck supper and I did not care for it.

 

December 13, 1956

Meeting of about eighty community leaders this evening in Lions’ Den to work out some plan of community betterment. Fine group of people – faced with apparently insoluble problem – decline of the town and farm population.

 

December 14, 1956

I took Dean and Mary Miller to Stillwater and showed them the library – also lunch in Student Union. We enjoyed it. Threatened to sleet but didn’t. Perhaps in ... Should be Dec. 12. Turned two pages. I got my Xmas letters and spent the day sending them out. It was warm most of the day but turned cold this evening. I did not go to lodge. Too busy. See Dec. 12.

 

December 15, 1956

Mrs. Featheringill and I made popcorn balls and filled netting sacks with them, a few pieces of candy and an orange in imitation of Christmas celebration of long ago – for club program next Tuesday.

 

December 16, 1956

Drove to Stillwater after church to dinner of Bible reading class. After dinner we went to auditorium. Am staying overnight with Lula McClure. Poor brave Mrs. Garrett was with the class, but it must break her heart to think Kathleen was with us last year.

 

December 17, 1956

I got defroster put in my car before I drove home. Somebody stole it some time last summer. It was there last winter – now it is gone. Very cold day threatening sleet.

 

December 18, 1956

Christmas program of Woman’s Club at Katherine Burchardt’s We had an old time Xmas tree – supposedly in the first log schoolhouse in 1891. It went off very well.

 

December 19, 1956

I neglected to make entries several days in here. Jessie Douglas came to visit me – first visit I have had with her since the week after my mother died – and the only visit in my home here. It is wonderful to have her here.

 

December 20, 1956

An inch of rain fell last night. Wonderful! It threatened rain and a little fell all day. Very warm. I took Jessie to Perry to see the pottery plant – then to Stillwater to see the library. Lunch with Alice Hamilton in Student Union. Then to Guthrie where I left her at her cousin’s. I visited briefly with Grace Goodman in Guthrie.

 

December 21, 1956

Worked pretty hard on Christmas letters. I don’t remember anything else. Neglected to make entry.

 

December 22, 1956

I don’t remember much but Xmas letters. I enjoy the ones who come to me but it’s hard work sending mine out. I am sending 200.

 

December 23, 1956

Communion service at church. In the afternoon Pearl Boyce and Donna and Pearl visited me briefly. They are on their way to Carmen for Christmas [ Half inch of rain somewhere in here. Perhaps Dec. 24.] Open house at parsonage in P.M.

 

December 24, 1956

I really finished my Christmas letters. Worked on them all day. In the evening attended the Xmas program at the church.

 

December 25, 1956

Fine Christmas service at church at 10. Then went to home of Clara & Olga Schaefer for Xmas dinner. Other guests: Pete Ficken family & Vergene Shores, Mrs. Albert Schaefer, Bill Schaefer’s family, Geo. Schaefer. I enjoyed it very much. Weather beautiful – bright sunshine, clean sky, so warm I wore thin summer wrap.

 

December 26, 1956

Don’t remember anything except that I went to lodge.

 

December 27, 1956

Went to party at schoolhouse given by senior class for former students. Fine party. Dancing. Mr. Oliver Seefeldt is painting, my garage. Weather almost unbelievably warm.

 

December 28, 1956

Mr. Seefeldt finished first coat on my Mr. Seefeldt finished painting my garage. Still perfect weather.

 

December 29, 1956

I taught my S.S. Still perfect weather.

 

December 30, 1956

I taught my S.S. class as usual and went to church. Weather still wonderful.

 

December 31, 1956

More of this wonderful weather; Mr. Seefeldt painted my new outbuilding the second coat. It looks nice. We certainly had perfect weather for it.