January 1 - December 31, 1959
(Box 5/Folder 6)
January 1, 1959
Beautiful bright day. About half of the snow melted, I drove over and had a conference with Elsie Seefeldt about Guild Work. Snow on road packed and slick – O.K. with careful driving. I took down my Xmas tree and card and decorations.
January 2, 1959
Warm morning- I thought it would soon start thawing but it soon turned very cold. Wind blowing, a few flakes of hard snow falling. Raymond finished painting the floors in my house. The young Alexanders will move in soon as they dry.
January 3, 1959
It was – 5 last night and a hard wind blowing, I doubt that it got much warmer during the day. It snowed some but mostly it drifted what was on the ground. My horse was cold – my furnace could not take it – 68° in my living room.
January 4, 1959
-7 this morning. Sun bright but no melting. Small attendance at church. I taught a dull class – Dean conducted informal service in basement. Impossible to warm main auditorium. In P.M. Dean and Kathie took me to Enid for 2:35 train. It was very late & reached K.C. at 2 A.M. Scheduled at 8:45 P.M. Am in Phillips Hotel for piece of night.
January 5, 1959
Got to sleep not too long after 2 A.M. I got up at 8 and spent all day to P.M. in meeting of Commission on Higher Education of E. & R. Church. Tired, but otherwise O.K. Very good meeting.
January 6, 1959
Got done conference about noon. Ate, packed, checked out – and just then Burton came for me. (I did take a little time to visit with Pearl at Kresge’s one block from hotel.) Am having wonderful visit with Burton and Dorine.
January 7, 1959
Visited with Dorine all day while Burton was at work. In evening we picked up Nellie & George and went to the Hartigs for dinner. They showed fine moving pictures of family, including our dinner in the park last summer when I returned from Europe.
January 8, 1959
Visited with Dorine while Burton worked. This weather is intensely cold – has never let up.
January 9, 1959
Burton took me to 8:05 train on his way to work. It was intensely cold all the way home till after we crossed the Salt Fork the sun shone and a little thawing was evident. Olga and Winnie Shaefer met me.
January 10, 1959
It really warmed up today. No doubt the snow drifts along the fences are melting. Still warm this evening. The snow of Dec. 29-31 fell softly and evenly but the fierce wind of Jan. 2-3 drifted it badly.
January 11, 1959
Warm day. Fine attendance at church. I taught my S.S. class – big class. There was a dinner but I didn’t stay because I was too busy and tired to prepare anything yesterday. In afternoon was yearly congregational meeting postponed from last Sunday. It was a wonderful meeting.
January 12, 1959
I have been having increasing trouble with sore throat ever since I came home. Too much exposure on that train trip to K.C. I guess. Am tired and can’t shake it off.
January 13, 1959
Warm day. My cold got worse but I went to Club in p.m. at Mrs. Fox’s. Shouldn’t have gone. It kept getting tighter on my lungs and in my throat. After I went to bed I got alarmed – went to Pearl Burchardt’s and borrowed some vapo-rub and wrapped my chest & throat up in flannel.
January 14, 1959
My cold not so alarmingly tight after my night with vapo-rub and flannel but I was sick all day. Pearl got my mail. Olga and Hulda came to see me – also Winnie Branen brought me some lemons, etc. also hot pad. Bless them.
January 15, 1959
I stayed in bed most of the day but felt better than yesterday. Olga came again bringing mail and food. Al I only hope she does not take it. It may be flu, though I think I have had no fever.
January 16, 1959
I made up my bed with the spread and stayed up all day. (Hulda, Winnie) and Olga came and I told them I was well, Winnie Schaefer also came for a nice visit. Such good people.
January 17, 1959
Drove down town, got my own mail, went to the bank, bought some groceries. Felt pretty shaky on my feet but O.K. Warm, nice day.
January 18, 1959
Felt pretty good but still weak. Taught my S.S. class & attended church. Slept in PM. Am O.K. except my cough still bothers some. Nice warm day.
January 19, 1959
LaVerne Madigan called and said she needs me in N. York Jan. 31 at meeting of A.A.I.A. directors. In evening attended a committee meeting to plan a new addition to church building. Fine meeting. Weather is looking threatening but still warm.
January 20, 1959
Moisture forming ice on trees, grass etc. – porch very slick but ground wet instead of icy. Wind blowing hard from the north this evening but not really cold yet. I cleaned my house using gadgets of my new vacuum cleaner. Gave it the works. I looked out – it is snowing.
January 21, 1959
Ground covered with snow – not a deep snow, but badly drifted. Very cold today. But it started clearing this morning – big clouds rolling back and the sun has shone most of the day. Very cold all day but I think not below zero.
January 22, 1959
Nice bright day – thawing. I am planning a plane trip to N. York for directors’ meeting of Association on American Indian Affairs.
January 23, 1959
Another nice warm day. Most of the snow gone except in the shade.
January 24, 1959
Warm day. Learned Mrs. Adams was injured yesterday in a car accident. Went to see her – found her suffering greatly from two broken ribs. Poor little thing!
January 25, 1959
Taught my S.S. class & attended church. Nice crowd out. Bright, beautiful spring day. No fire. I went out and did some garden work because I am now very well – have been shut up so much. It made me feel wonderful. Then when I was sitting by the open north window a cold wind suddenly struck. It was 5:10. Now it is cold.
January 26, 1959
Miserable dark day – a little freezing mist but not much. Not terribly cold. Had committee meeting with Mrs. Hada.
January 27, 1959
Dark threatening day – not cold. I went to Club at Winnie Branen’s. In evening Ambre Congdon came to call. Nice visit. I learned that good Dr. Rogers died yesterday.
January 28, 1959
Plane left Stillwater 3:16. Went to Stillwater this P.M. with Elden Grasssman, Louis Reim, and Paul Schler and had very profitable interview with Dwight Stevens about proposed addition to the church bldg. Then they put me on the plane and I went came to St. Louis. August and Catherene Burchardt met me and I enjoyed nice visit in their home. Very foggy here – plane landed by instruments.
January 29, 1959
August left at 3:30 this morning. Catherene and I visited – went down to church headquarters and met people – lovely visit and dinner with Charles and Jamie and sweet little Cindy. Then we all when to chapel at Seminary where man from Ecuador mission spoke. Then Dr. & Mrs. Braun came to the house and I showed my Russian pictures.
January 30, 1959
Catherene took me to my 10 A.M. plane. Reached New York about 2. LaVerne Madigan, Oliver La Farge, and some others, and I had dinner with Mrs. Smith – talked over Indian matters. Also continued talk at hotel – LaVerne, Richard Schifter, and I. Am staying at Adams – 2 E. 86 th.
January 31, 1959
Luncheon and whole afternoon meeting of directors of Association on American Indian Affairs. Very good meeting. Tired this evening. Got everything ready for early start tomorrow – must leave hotel at 7 to catch a plane at Idlewild. Lovely weather – much warmer than down south in Okla.
February 1, 1959
Left N.Y. at 9 – reached Tulsa about 3 – Stillwater at 5:34. Weather so murky not sure plane could land at Stillwater. Louis Reim family met me. Road increasingly slick from Stillwater west. Considerable snow on the ground by the time we reached Marshall. Very cold.
February 2, 1959
Cold all day but not sub-zero. Cloudy and dark. I have much writing, etc. to pick up here at home.
February 3, 1959
Attended S.S. teachers’ meeting at the church this evening. Turned warmer during the day and the snow started melting.
February 4, 1959
Beautiful bright warm day – snow about gone. Attended Women’s Guild at the church this P.M.
February 5, 195[9]
Snowed much of the forenoon – about 2 inches. Pretty cold. Then clouds rolled back and the sun came out and melted most of the snow. Lovely P.M. Group of women met with Mrs. Hada to discuss traffic safety in Marshall.
February 6, 1959
Lovely bright day. Most of the snow is gone. Water went off tonight at 11. And I am having company tomorrow!
February 7, 1959
Water off all day all over town. Big break in main line by railroad. Men worked frantically. Claude Heyer came to get my advice on the report he is making on the Kiowa-Camanche-Apache troubles. Brought along his pretty wife, Eva. Nice day.
February 8, 1959
Water on this morning but whistle blew and they turned it off about 8. Miserable misty day but warm. I taught my S.S. class and attended church. Water finally came on this evening.
February 9, 1959
Miserable foggy misty day but warm. It seems good to have water once more. I have a cistern and that helps, but still it is inconvenient. Thunder and showers this evening.
February 10, 1959
Marshall Woman’s Club met with me today. Fair to average meeting. Nice day It didn’t rain much here last night – tornado in St. Louis. Bad one.
February 11, 1959
I drove to O.C. this morning to meeting of advisory committee on Civil Rights Commission. Bright but pretty cold this morning, lovely in P.M.
February 12, 1959
Cloudy and bad again but it didn’t actually storm. I would have driven to Stillwater except for threatening weather.
February 13, 1959
Still cloudy and threatening but no real storm.
February 14, 1959
It really cleared off this P.M. so that I spaded and hoed in my flower garden. Some of the bulbs are coming up. I spaded one big resurrection lily in two.
February 15, 1959
Nice warm day – even a March wind. I believe the worst of this bad winter is over. Fine crowd at church. I taught my S.S. class. In the P.M. I rode down with Branens to the beautiful Old People’s Home the Disciples Church built 3 years ago at Edmond. A fine project.
February 16, 1959
Warm and more wind. I drove to Stillwater and took care of a number of errands I have been saving up for months. Saw many friends. Stopped and visited with dear Cherrie Garrett.
February 17, 1959
Not much happened. I should have worked but didn’t.
February 18, 1959
Cold this morning – flurries of snow – but sun came out this P.M. This evening I attended the lenten service at the church. Quite a good congregation for a mid-week service.
February 19, 1959
[No entry]
February 20, 1959
[No entry]
February 21, 1959
[No entry]
February 22, 1959
Cloudy misty day but not cold. I went to church- taught my S.S. class. Good crowd out.
February 23, 1959
Nice bright day. I drove to Enid to see Mrs. Hawkins and Esther Porter. Found Mrs. H in pitiable condition – bedfast except when they lift her into her wheelchair and almost blind. Esther is fine.
February 24, 1959
Coffee (and breakfast) of club at Ila Smith’s. Very pleasant occasion. Lovely day.
February 25, 1959
Nice day. Attended lenten service at church this evening.
February 26, 1959
I planted onions in my garden. We are finally having good weather. But there is not a leaf on a shrub, not a blade of grass, not a green weed – like winter in the North. I did find one dandelion blowing on my lawn today – the first one. Even the pests are dormant.
February 27, 1959
Family night at the church. Such a good time we all had. It was sprinkling when we left home and when we came out we saw there had been a nice shower. We needed it. I heard a mockingbird this morning. I am afraid he will starve before spring (and bugs) come.
February 28, 1959
Lovely bright morning. White frost. Mabel Bryson called and asked if I wanted to go to K.C. for the weekend. (Olie’s [sic] baby being baptized.) I did. It snowed on the way up. The ground was white. Dry and warm before we reached K.C. Burton met them and took me home. We went in the evening to visit Dorine’s parents, the Harrisons.
March 1, 1959
Enjoying myself as always with Burton and Dorine. Pearl, Nellie and George here at dinner. Martha, Don, and children, and Carolyn, Kenny and children came in afternoon. Carolyn’s new baby, Susan, a week and a half old. Born Feb. 18 I believe. A very fine baby. Carolyn a little pale but O.K.
March 2, 1959
Burton and Dorine took me to Ollie and Frank’s home to meet the Brysons. We had a pleasant drive home. It seemed to me spring was a little farther advanced in sheltered woodsy places in K.C. than here.
March 3, 1959
Nothing in particular happened. Lovely bright day, but had ice on the bird bath which remained all the afternoon.
March 4, 1959
Felt ill all day but attended Guild at church this P.M. By evening my illness had developed into a bad cold. I didn’t attend lenten service. High wind all day – cold weather predicted.
March 5, 1959
This morning I found ground covered with snow and a furious blizzard raging. Wind whirling and driving – air filled with whiteness. Stopped about 2 and by night was melting. I was ill all day. Didn’t venture out even to get my mail.
March 6, 1959
I felt better but still have my cold. Lovely bright day. Snow all gone but the drifts. But the drifts are really big. The wind drove it so hard.
March 7, 1959
I’m still about sick but better. Another bright lovely day – only the remnants of drifts are still here.
March 8, 1959
Felt bad – taught my S.S. class and came home without staying for church. Some Pawnees were coming or I would have gone to bed. They came in the P.M.– Levi & Cody Horsechief and Chapman. Need help in looking up land titles. After they left got ready for bed at 6.
March 9, 1959
Intended to stay in bed all forenoon but felt so much better I got up. Had fine meeting of traffic group in the schoolhouse this P.M. Bruce Dehn sent me $200 to help buy plane ticket for Nellie. I wrote Burton and Dorine about it.
March 10, 1959
Went to Marshall Woman’s Club at Mrs. Hada’s. Pretty awful program. Some of these turn out bad, and this one did. It has always been hard for me to endure such.
March 11, 1959
Went to lodge. Before we went in the hall saw a lovely sight – a brilliant star hanging on one end of the new moon – just as the afterglow was fading. Learned later it was Venus and that it will be many years before it will be in that position again.
March 12, 1959
Working on copy for the Okla. Indian Newsletter. I have little time to work on it because of other commitments.
March 13, 1959
Baked a cake, made a jello salad, and cleaned the house (which needed it badly). Getting ready for company tomorrow. Lovely bright day, but we need rain badly.
March 14, 1959
Terrible high wind – dust in air – from the north. (My once-clean house!) I drove to Stillwater and got lovely Nives de Leon, student from the Philippines, she spent the day with me and the Branens and Bob Schaefers. We tried to show her around but the weather almost defeated us.
March 15, 1959
The John O’Neills took Nives to the Catholic church and out to their home – then showed her soil conservation and a drilling oil well. (Lovely weather.) The Bill Schaefers took her back to Stillwater. I taught my S.S.class and attended church. In the P.M. Roy Haymans of Chickasha came to see me.
March 16, 1959
I worked on the Okla. Newsletter. Nice day but we need rain.
March 17, 1959
I drove to Enid and heard a most interesting lecture of Phillips Uni. by Acee Blue Eagle. Had lunch with Mrs. Zahl. Acee asked me to meet him because he wants me the foreword to a book he has written. In the P.M. I visited with Dennis Porter at Phillips and called on poor Mrs. Hawkins and on Clara Hamiel in the hospital.
March 18, 1959
Worked on talk I will make with some slides at O.C. Friday at Nelle Thomas’s unit of the Sorosis Club. Also all my clothes are dirty and I worked on them.
March 19, 1959
High dusty wind from the south. I drove to the City this P.M. Am staying with Nelle. The elms here are beginning to show faint green from the seeds. At Marshall they are just beginning to look brown from the blooms.
March 20, 1959
Lovely rain all day. I spoke and showed slides – “The Religious Situation in Europe.” Started home about five. It rained hard most of the way but I reached home before dark. I am not tired. It stopped raining this evening. We need more. I should say we got about ½ inch.
March 21, 1959
One of those days in which I waste time. I should have worked hard all day on my Okla. Indian Newsletter but I loafed.
March 22, 1959
Enjoyed my S.S. class even more than usual. Fine church service. In the P.M. I had a delightful visit with my beloved Grace Goodman, Beth Le Hew, and a Mrs. Vanderwort, also of Guthrie.
March 23, 1959
Worked hard on my Newsletter. This evening teams met at the church annex and then went out to see all the members to receive their pledges on the building fund. I am a member of the finance committee but the teams were all men. I added the pledges. They reported $11,858 – nothing but willing cooperation. Everyone happy – one of the happiest experiences I ever had.
March 24, 1959
I finished my Newsletter and got it in the mail. Am working on a letter to non-resident members of the church giving them a chance to contribute to the building fund.
March 25, 1959
Made stencils of two letters to non-resident church members (young college students and holders of jobs in nearby cities and adult families that have moved away) – Dean ran them and I sent them out. Went to lodge – we meet only twice a month now.
March 26, 1959
Made late entries so forget whether it was March 25 or March 26 that we had a quick hard shower with hail. Probably about ½ inch. I think it was March 25.
March 27, 1959
Sent back Bruce Dehn’s $200. Our plans to send Nellie to visit him were not so good. She can’t get up courage to take the long trip alone. She is so brave and self reliant none of us thought of her feeling that way but she has not had any experience of travel, Good Friday service by Chas. Burchardt. Fine service.
March 28, 1959
Joe Vculek (such a fine boy) graded up the dirt over a new culvert I bought for my driveway. Did it a day or so ago when I wasn’t looking and when I started to drive out it was done. Today I made him a cake. It seemed he pleased. His mother is dead and his father ill.
March 29, 1959
Fine Easter service – communion service. I taught my S.S. class as usual. In the P.M. Clarice Baugh and her mother came to visit me. Also Frances Ficken and I planned May Fellowship Day for Guild.
March 30, 1959
I had a little leisure to do some odds and ends – also worked in the garden. My daffodils, iris, and jonquils and hyacinths are blooming. The elms are getting green with seeds. Grass starting. Such a late spring. Light shower last night. People are dusting their wheat to kill green bugs.
March 31, 1959
I spent the day in Stillwater at the library looking up the documents the Pawnees asked for when they came over to see me March 8. Pearl Burchardt went with me and spent the day with Loretta. Planes dusting wheat again today.
April 1, 1959
Mean windy day. The planes couldn’t dust wheat. I attended Guild – an unusually fine lesson by Thelma Ficken, and very fine devotional by Frances Ficken.
April 2, 1959
[No entry]
April 3, 1959
Spent the day in Stillwater looking up more documents for the Pawnees. Redbud and wildflowers beginning to bloom. Elms faintly green with seeds.
April 4, 1959
Worked all day on the material I got from Stillwater.
April 5, 1959
Taught my S.S. class and attended church service. After church a short congregational meeting was called – unanimously ratified the building plans and authorized the president and secretary to enter into contracts.
April 6, 1959
Lovely day. I drove to Stillwater to show my Russian pictures at a guest day meeting of a Woman’s Club Circle. Had lovely luncheon with Mrs. Schroeder. Mrs. Stuerke was with me. Rather disappointed at the showing of the pictures – too much light.
April 7, 1959
Ida and Ralph came by for a short visit this morning. I was so glad to see them. Then I drove to Stillwater to a club luncheon (Mrs. Means gave me the ticket yesterday) when Mrs. Creighton Brown Burham, author of a recent book, spoke about her experiences as head of the girls’ reform school at Tecumseh. Cloudy and sprinkled a little. Vote on prohibition today.
April 8, 1959
Prohibition lost – end of an enlightened social ideal dating from the advent of statehood. Good rain last night – a little over an inch – the first real rain since last summer. Pretty cold today – cloudy. It will be nice to see the lawns and pastures turn green. Oaks and cottonwoods are starting to put out beds ready to bloom.
April 9, 1959
Drove to Stillwater – oaks and cottonwoods showing yellow fringe of bloom. Attended no host dinner at Union with Writers’ Club, then guest day at Milam Hotel, where Winston Weathers spoke. Very practical talks. Am staying at the Paul Wise home. Sun shone most of day.
April 10, 1959
Stopped this morning to see the new house of John and Estelle Melton. It is beautiful. Also stopped to see Anna Oursler, who has broken her ankle and wears a horrible heavy cast. Got home just before noon. Thin sheet of ice on water this morning.
April 11, 1959
Nothing in particular happened. I showed my rent house to the Atteburys. The Alexanders had expected to stay on at Marshall but later decided to move at end of school.
April 12, 1959
Pretty cold day. I taught my S.S. class and attended church service. Dean preached a fine sermon. Tomorrow I will go to St. Joseph to spring synod.
April 13, 1959
Ice on bird bath this morning. Took my car to Draper’s service station and met Don Snyder & Rev. Bob Hartig from O.C. & Mr. Lewis Wahrenburg from Loyal. Drove to St. Joe in Don’s car. Reached here about 3 P.M. Am staying with Emma Young. Found ground covered with snow thru Central Kansas.
April 14, 1959
Lovely bright crisp day Grace Tilden came after Emma and me and we visited with her and Harry till noon. Then Harry went to Rotary and she took us to a nice place for luncheon. In P.M. Harry showed beautiful colored slides taken on their last fall’s trick (50th wedding anniversary to Hawaii. In late P.M. registered at the church, ate dinner there, heard a fine sermon by Rev. John Flucke, communion service. Got to Emma’s at 10 P.M.
April 15, 1959
Business started at 9 A.M. Rev. Robb. G. Herrmann elected moderator. Best I ever saw in presiding over a parliamentary assembly – lightning quick, keen mind, steered straight through with humor and courtesy but kept to subject. We ate two meals at church. I am on publicity committee and did some very hard work on typewriter at a lull in proceedings. In evening a fine sermon by Dr. Gunneman, pres. of Mission House. Reception afterwards. Got in 10:30. Beautiful weather.
April 16, 1959
Finished business (started 8:30), had memorial service, early luncheon 11:30, started home. I rode back with Dean Miller and Mr. Osmus of Okeene in Dean’s car. Picked up my car on the highway reached home at nine. Cloud coming up and storm warnings out so stayed up till it started to rain. about 10:30. Then it quieted down.
April 17, 1959
Rained about an inch last night. I was tired today and loafed mostly. In evening attended family night supper and enjoyable program at the church. Threatened more rain but didn’t.
April 18, 1959
Rained again last night – then a rather violent light shower with some hail late in P.M. We are very happy about it. We needed rain very much.
April 19, 1959
Cloudy this morning – bright and beautiful with big soft clouds this P.M. I taught my S.S. class and attended church service. Dean announced that he was leaving after July 12. He had already told me during synod – also men at council meeting.
April 20, 1959
Cold day. I should have worked, had much writing to do, but wasted time mostly.
April 21, 1959
Cold dark day. I had my lawn mowed for the first time – grass not high enough but to get the weeds.
April 22, 1959
White frost and ice on bird bath this morning. Went to lodge this evening.
April 23, 1959
[No entry]
April 24, 1959
I saw the mocking bird hopping on my lawn this morning. I wish I had some trees for him to build in but we have had too much drought. Formerly we had song birds all around us here.
April 25, 1959
I recorded this wrong. Happened Apr. 24 Flora Ward’s father took a heart attack unexpectedly at his place of business and died soon after. We had our bible class at Lula McClure’s – will send $10 to heart fund as our expression to Flora. I drove to Stillwater after lunch and got Margherita Neville and brought her over to spend the week end with me. She is a lovely college student who was in one of my classes last year. Getting pretty warm.
April 26, 1959
Took Margherita to S.S. and church and gave a ten-minute report at the church service about my experiences at synod. Carole Grassman took Margherita back in late afternoon. Very hot.
April 27, 1959
Hot day, building up to high wind and dust in the P.M. I took down my curtains and put up summer drapes & took the glass out of my screen doors front and back. I heard the mocking bird singing on Pearl Burchardt’s TV aerial. I am afraid my trees are so badly killed out by drought he can’t find a place to build a nest.
April 28, 1959
Blooms broke out this morning on my old fashioned rose bush. I am going to clock it and see how long it lasts.
April 29, 1959
[No entry]
April 30, 1959
[No entry]
May 1, 1959
Drove to Muskogee – started at 9:30 – hoped to have time for visit with Mrs. Foreman but picked up mail & got flat tire between Kiefer and Glenn Pool, and so my visit was rather short. She has failed much. Had dinner with lovely Dorothy Kaler and her family. Ralph is fine. So are the children staying with Vesta Etchison at Severs Hotel.
May 2, 1959
Spoke and showed pictures at A.A.U.W. luncheon at Severs Hotel. They seemed to enjoy it. We spent much of the P.M. sitting around and talking. Then Vesta took me out for dinner. Soon after we returned a storm with hail hit – not any damage.
May 3, 1959
Went to church, (Presbyterian) with nice cafeteria with Vesta’s sister, husband, and sons – the Hudson’s. A fine family. Called briefly on Mrs. Foreman & then drove home. Soon as I got here the Dwight Ruscos came & spent the evening. Daughter, Alice, very bright.
May 4, 1959
Had good meeting of the traffic safety committee at the schoolhouse this P.M. Spent much of the day straightening up from my trip. Light shower this evening.
May 5, 1959
We still need rain badly. I am reading a very interesting book, The Greatest Gamblers by Ruth Sheldon Knowles to review – it for the N.Y. Times.
May 6, 1959
Had fine meeting at the church – a pot luck meal at which all the churches in town were represented. It may grow into a Council of United Church Women for the Protestant groups. After the meal we all divided and had our regular separate meet afternoon meetings.
May 7, 1959
Finished the book and started writing the review. This evening the Women’s Guild conducted an ascension day service at the church. Very fine service but small attendance.
May 8, 1959
Started raining in the night and rained off and on during the day. About an inch in all, lovely, slow rain. And how we needed it! I finished my review and mailed it.
May 9, 1959
Rain quit during the night – lovely bright day. My roses, peonies, and iris are lovely. This rain was good for everything. About 2 in. August and Catherene Burchardt were in town briefly this morning. Ferrol Butts came to visit me this P.M.
May 10, 1959
Taught my S.S. class and attended church service. August and Catherene here but had to leave immediately. It threatened rain but I forget whether it did or not – am writing late. If it did rain it wasn’t much. I took two huge pink peonies to church today.
May 11, 1959
Lovely day, lovely flowers in my garden, lovely wheat at end of street. My yellow rose is beautiful.
May 12, 1959
Two cars of Marshall Woman’s Club attended guest day of Bethel Boosters at United Brethren Evangelical Church in country. Boresome silly games but their hospitality was O.K. Brief visit business meeting in my house after our return. Bright lovely day but getting hot.
May 13, 1959
Nice cool day. I was chairman of a committee to serve at lodge tonight The two other members faded out but others helped me and it was O.K. I baked date-nut bread to serve.
May 14, 1959
[No entry]
May 15, 1959
[No entry]
May 16, 1959
[No entry]
May 17, 1959
I taught my S.S. class and attended church. Three fine children were confirmed – Danny Rudy. Max Ficken, and Janie Grassman. Very moving service. Then communion. I picked up Pearl Burkhardt & Mrs. Hall and we took quite a drive to see the wheat.
May 18, 1959
The weather is getting hot and dry. Warm high wind from south today. I watered my garden thoroughly.
May 19, 1959
Another day with high wind from the south. My purple clematis is blooming Peonies about done – last buds blighted because of the heat.
May 20, 1959
Hot day but not so windy. Nothing happened.
May 21, 1959
Lovely cool day – some clouds. I went to Enid this morning to see Mrs. Hawkins. (Took Olga Schaefer along.) Found her much better than when I saw her on March 17, but still nearly blind. I stopped at Sears and bought some cheap little throw rugs, a magazine rack, and a chair. Got back at 12:30 and had lunch with the Schaefers.
May 22, 1959
Lovely rain early this morning – a little over an inch & We needed it. Cool day. I told the primary children at Vacation Bible School the story of Maria Martinez and showed them pictures and pottery. As I was gathering up lovely little Judith Seefeldt came in and helped me and as soon as I mentioned Maria she remembered her on TV a year ago. Bright child. Kay II
May 23, 1959
Cool day – cold in fact so that I used my furnace. It was cloudy most of the day but cleared off. Everything lovely after the rain. Wheat ripening fast. The lone last bloom is on my yellow rose. Started blooming Apr. 28.
May 24, 1959
The day for our annual picnic the grass yesterday in Pete Ficken’s pasture and set up tables & chairs this morning. Then a light shower came in and they had to bring everything back and have the service and dinner at the church. But we enjoyed it. Yellow rose has no bloom.
May 25, 1959
I had a migraine attack early this morning. Can’t figure out cause. Took things easy all day.
May 26, 1959
Fine rain last night – about 1 inch, I should guess. Cleared off about noon – lovely, lovely day. Had annual Woman’s Club picnic at Winnie Branen’s – had it indoors because of wet lawn.
May 27, 1959
Went to lodge this evening. I was chairman of a committee to serve refreshments – Doris Rudd and Mrs. Hall helped.
May 28, 1959
Getting dry and hot. Wheat ripening fast.
May 29, 1959
High school alumni reunion. Meeting in afternoon, barbecue served by Clay Potts and dance in evening. Between times I went with Emma and Laura Barnes and Jim Kerr to home of Maggie Wilbur & her husband – then to home of Katherine & Tim Blaney. In evening this wonderful community presented me a plaque planned for March 28 last year but saved for this occasion.
May 30, 1959
I taught my S.S. class and attended chur Got up at 4:30 because so touched and excited about the plaque I couldn’t sleep. Went out very early and decorated graves – a few roses, some lilies, Jap. iris, and tamarisk. Then about nine o’clock Pearly Burchardt and I went back to see the people. Met many old friends. Turned off pilot on my furnace and turned on my air conditioner.
May 31, 1959
Taught my S.S. class and attended church. Had dinner with the Millers. I am going to miss that fine family when they leave. Loafed this P.M. Coolish day – cloudy off and on. People worried Want to start combining tomorrow.
June 1, 1959
A very slight shower last night and cloudy misty weather all morning. In the P.M. the sun came out and some wheat was harvested. But this is not the kind of weather we hoped for. Very cold. I would have used my furnace if I hadn’t turned off the pilot light Saturday.
June 2, 1959
Another day not good for combining. Cold and cloudy. My new chair came today and it is exactly right for my house. It was really an extravagant purchase for it cos $42+ but I can use it all my life.
June 3, 1959
Some combining this P.M. but not good harvest weather. No harm has been done yet but people are anxious to get the grain in. I attended Guild this P.M. Small crowd of course because of harvest.
June 4, 1959
Misted all morning. Sun shone in late P.M., so some combining. So cold all week I would use furnace only I turned it off Sat. My yellow old fashioned rose has never stopped putting out a few blooms – 4 or 5 on it now.
June 5, 1959
[No entry]
June 6, 1959
Best harvest day we have had – though damp in morning. Line of trucks this P.M. reached to highway at east end of Main St. – 4 blocks long.
June 7, 1959
I taught my S.S. class (only 8 there) and attended church. Many people working – rest tired out. In P.M. I drove to Guthrie – am in home of Dr. Lettew – showed my Russian German pics. to young Presbyterian group at country home of the Taylors. Warm day.
June 8, 1959
Beth Lettew took me to O.C. for lunch with Alice Locke. Met her mother, a lovely lady, daughter of Alice Davis. Came back to Guthrie in middle of P.M. and I drove home. Warm day.
June 9, 1959
Gerry Schaefer went to Stillwater Sun. P.M. to get out Filipina friend Nives Leon so she could see the harvest. This morning she took her back and I rode along. Very nice visit on the way with her and Gerry.
June 10, 1959
Went to lodge this evening. Not many there because of harvest.
June 11, 1959
Cora Staton Horsfield and Nelle Thomas came to visit me. Enjoyed them. Or perhaps they came June 10 – am making late entry.
June 12, 1959
I went to Stillwater this morning to attend to various odds and ends. Had lunch with Helen Donart and Richard King at cafeteria. Came home middle of P.M.
June 13, 1959
[No entry]
June 14, 1959
Fine crowd at church – harvest practically over. I taught my class. Children’s Day at preaching service. In evening I attended a meeting to plan for a caravan that will be at the church Tuesday. We sat and talked and laughed and had a visit as well as a meeting. Nice day – cool this morning.
June 15, 1959
I drove to the city this forenoon to meeting of Civil Rights Advisory Committee. This is the last meeting of the year. Nice day – cool in morning but warming up in P.M. We need rain badly.
June 16, 1959
A caravan of church people on a home mission tour (38in all) came to our church – arrived a little after 5. Had dinner. We tried to tell them about our community. Took them around some but the wheat harvest is all past and the country has its semi-desert summer aspect. They drove to Kingfisher for the night.
June 17, 1959
I took my record player to Stillwater to see if it needed a new needle but it didn’t.
June 18, 1959
Nothing much happened. It is getting terribly dry.
June 19, 1959
I am greatly saddened at the news that Acee Blue Eagle (died this morning.) – Later – he died Thursday P.M. June 18. It was a complete shock to me, but it seems he had been ill for some time. Mrs. Abbott called me and said the funeral will be at Tulsa Sunday afternoon. I will go.
June 20, 1959
I can’t miss church tomorrow because it is ground-breaking for new unit. I feel it is so important I want to be there. And driving to Tulsa and back in one stretch would be too hard for me. So I asked Leo and Alice Draper and they said (bless them!) they would take me to the funeral.
June 21, 1959
I taught my S.S. class and attended church – ground-breaking at close. Then we hurried home and I set out a quick dinner and we started for Tulsa. Lynn Post went alone. The funeral was at 3 on the Gilcrease hill. Indian rites as he had requested. On the way back it rained and at Marshall there had been an inch rain. We needed it.
June 22, 1959
Nice cool day. I was pretty tired. (Hope the Drapers and Lynn aren’t, but they are young.) I got ready for Mary and Max Shank who are coming to visit me tomorrow. Everything has. perked up because of the rain.
June 23, 1959
Nice cool day. Mary and Max came in late afternoon. I am enjoying them but Mary is ill. She has recurrent attacks of a cold that kept her down all winter. She hoped her Oklahoma vacation would thaw it out but this morning it struck again.
June 24, 1959
Mary still ill but perked up as the day progressed. She said the trip did not make it worse. That being true I’m glad she didn’t delay the visit for better health. I have enjoyed them so much. They left in the afternoon. Another nice day.
June 25, 1959
I seem tired today – too much dissipation I guess. So I rested Claude Heyer, recently employed as field worker by Assn. on American Ind. Aff., came up from Norman for a conference. Very good. He is fine. Nice cool day.
June 26, 1959
I’m about worn out today – too much dissipation I guess. So I rested. Another cool, cloudy day but today it rained off and on. Not much water.
June 27, 1959
Another cool day. I found my first gladiola had bloomed and others budded. They were planted too late, and couldn’t have bloomed except for the rain and cool week. I picked the one and brought it in to protect it.
June 28, 1959
My gladiola is lovely. I took it to church. I wished I had two so I could put them in vases on the altar. Others are showing color but not bloomed yet. I taught my S.S. class. Dean conducted his last service. I shall miss that fine young family. Cool cloudy day.
June 29, 1959
Our fine minister family left today. I feel very sad about it. The threatening rain (no real water since the one rain June 21) is over now. The sun shone all day and the weather is hot – strong wind, not a hot wind yet. That will come later. One more gladiola.
June 30, 1959
I went to Dr. DeWitt today because my feet are swelling so. He found me O.K. in heart & kidneys, but gave me some medicine to reduce the swelling. It clouded up this P.M. and has been raining softy all evening. Not much water has fallen yet, but I am hoping.
July 1, 1959
The rain last night was ½ in here, 1 ½ in a few miles south of town. Guild meeting at church today. I enjoyed it. Cool day.
July 2, 1959
Really cold this morning – so cold people closed their houses to keep warm. The men are running their plows night and day to make the best of the nice damp ground.
July 3, 1959
Failed to make entry. Nothing happened that I remember.
July 4, 1959
All I remember is that I stayed at home and worked.
July 5, 1959
Taught my S.S. class – attended church. Charles Burchardt, who is taking the pastorate for the summer, preached a wonderful sermon. The Schaefer girls and Alma Friend came home with me to dinner and spent the P.M. with me. Alma brought her projector and I showed my Russian pictures.
July 6, 1959
Sort of dragged around all day. I enjoyed yesterday very much but I find it tires me to have a good time.
July 7, 1959
[No entry]
July 8, 1959
Was getting ready for lodge when I saw it was going to rain. Fine heavy shower – started about 8, quit before bedtime.
July 9, 1959
It rained a little last night but not much. Total was 1.22 in. Pretty good. Really cold today. I started real work on a life of Geronimo. Spent the time reading and sorting my notes.
July 10, 1959
Lovely cool morning – not hot all day. We have had a pleasant summer. I worked on my Geronimo notes. Mrs. Abbott called from Tulsa – is coming over tomorrow to talk about the foreword I am to write for Acee Blue Eagle’s book.
July 11, 1959
Nice coolish day though I did use my cooler some in the P.M. Mrs. Abbot and Carl Woodring came in late P.M. and showed me the mock-up of Acee’s book and we discussed the length and content of the foreword. They told me the details of his illness – cancer of the liver.
July 12, 1959
Taught my S.S. class and attended church. Charles preached – a scholarly sermon but not so interesting as last week. Lovely cool day – sprinkled off and on. I am very tired – too much conference yesterday. I find I tire easily these days – but I was certainly going strong last year.
July 13, 1959
I wrote the foreword (400 words – hard to condense) and mailed it this evening. I could have done it better if I could have kept the manuscript but I suppose that was too risky. If it had been lost there could have been no replacement. Cold day – no air conditioner needed.
July 14, 1959
Lovely cool day – a few sprinkles of rain but we need much more. I have never seen such pleasant summer weather. I am still enjoying my gladiolas – also my day lilies.
July 15, 1959
Lovely rain this morning – straight down, no thunder nor wind. But not enough. I suppose it was about ½ inch. I am getting ready for visit of Ruth Sheldon Knowles and her mother Friday. No air conditioning needed. I have lovely gladiolas.
July 16, 1959
Late entry. I don’t remember anything in particular except that it was a lovely cool day.
July 17, 1959
Ruth called from Duncan this morning saying her college-age son (Porter) and 5-year old youngest were with her and her mother and couldn’t she take me to lunch. I said just more plates – come ahead and they came. Helped me with dinner and dishers [sic] (Porter washed, little Nora helped her mother dry). We all had a wonderful time.
July 18, 1959
I wasn’t even tired from having company yesterday. Still lovely weather. We could use more rain. Some parts of the state are getting too much, but it misses us. It keeps the weather wonderful. Heavy dew and cold every morning. Warms up later.
July 19, 1959
Really so cold I was uncomfortable early this morning. I went to S.S. and church – taught my class – Charles Burchardt preached. Lovely light shower this P.M. – probably less than ¼ inch but the grass and flowers liked it.
July 20, 1959
(Should be July 21) I am working on my long neglected Geronimo project. Lovely weather to write but I’m not accomplishing much.
July 21, 1959
Should be July 20 –> I went to Enid with the Schaefer sisters and Winnie. Saw Mrs. Hawkins. Found her much better than when I saw her last but she is still pretty helpless and nearly blind.
July 22, 1959
I went to lodge this evening – only 8 or 9 there. Another cool, lovely day with rains all around, but not for us.
July 23, 1959
I believe this was the day – it might have been July 22 – when we had a lovely, light shower, really an “April shower” – less than ¼ inch. We need more. Lovely cool day.
July 24, 1959
Lovely cool morning but it got sunny and hot in the P.M. Perhaps our month of “rain” is over. Attended a lovely shower for my beloved Kay Seefeldt at the Xn church ed. bldg. She got many beautiful presents – and richly deserved them.
July 25, 1959
Gentle, kindly Argie Branen died this morning. It brings death pretty close to our block – third house south of mine. He had had a bad heart for many years but was ill only one day. Warm day – sun shone all day with no promise of rain. I think our real summer is starting now.
July 26, 1959
Went to S.S. (August Burchardt taught my class) and church (Charles preached). Had dinner and a wonderful visit at the Brysons’. August and Catherene were there – also Jamie and Charles of course. Lovely cool day – soft rain all late P.M. and evening Probably ¼ inch.
July 27, 1959
Rained all night – seldom have I seen so lovely a rain – soft, no wind, every drop soaked down. Added up to 3.1 in., most we have had for a year. Rained more in forenoon but stopped in time for Argie Branen’s funeral. I couldn’t attend because Claude Heyer was here for a conference – Eva came, too. Lovely cold day.
July 28, 1959
Rained another ½ inch last night Same beautiful gentle rain – just what we needed. Great rolling soft clouds cleared off and sun came out in P.M. Albert Evans came from Stillwater and put my organ in perfect repair. My mother raised turkeys to buy it.
July 29, 1959
A Mrs. Helena Stolba came to spend the morning. She is greatly interested in the life of Pleasant Porter – also his grandson Bill (Wm. Adair) Porter. In the P.M. Benedict Jozhe brought Moses Loco and James Kaywaykla to help me out with Apache history. Wonderful break for me.
July 30, 1959
Nice sunny day – clean sky, clean air – but it got rather hot. I am working on my notes taken from Apache interview – also catching up on correspondence.
July 31, 1959
Lucile May and her lovely blond young daughter (about 13 or 14) came by to see me. Lucile’s mother came along. She looks oldish – which is O.K. for she is only 4 years younger than I. Lucile is slim and very attractive.
August 1, 1959
I worked on the Okla. Indian Newsletter – got a good start and hated to quit. Hot day. It is very dry already – still it is sultry instead of burning hot. And dew at night.
August 2, 1959
I taught my S.S. class and attended church. Charles preached a fine sermon. The new addition to the church is going up fast now after slow start. Hot day but still dew in the morning.
August 3, 1959
I worked hard on the Newsletter and got the first draft finished unless I discover I’ve forgotten something. Dew this morning but hot day. I don’t mind it because of the air conditioner.
August 4, 1959
I got my Newsletter finished but didn’t have time to read it over and mail it. Hot day. And we need rain badly. Grass green, wheat ground O.K., but dry for garden and flowers.
August 5, 1959
Got my Newsletter off this morning. Went to Women’s Guild in afternoon. The new addition to the church is going up fast. We had to meet in the parsonage. Hot day.
August 6, 1959
Spent the day at Stillwater working in the college library. Very hot day. 105° at Hennessey. I suppose about the same at Marshall. On the way home it rained on me by violent gusts – bad storm behind me at Stillwater. I ran into dry ground 2 mi. south of Marshall Later it sprinkled a little here.
August 7, 1959
I was tired today from my Stillwater trip. Didn’t accomplish much. Threatened rain but didn’t.
August 8, 1959
Didn’t get much done. Kept library in the afternoon. Pleasant to see the children come in after books. Lovely cool day
August 9, 1959
I went to church – taught my S.S. class. The new addition to the building is progressing nicely. Nice cool day.
August 10, 1959
I believe this was the day I went to Stillwater and worked in the college library all day. I believe this was the day I took Mrs. Shanks up to visit the Shades family – afternoon and supper. Lovely house – wonderful visit.
August 11, 1959
[No entry for August 11, 1959]
August 12, 1959
I went to Hennessey and got my teeth cleaned (all 7 O.K.). Lodge in evening. We are having wonderful weather – cool nights and mornings, warm in P.M. But how we need rain!
August 13, 1959
[No entry]
August 14, 1959
I cleaned the house and went to meeting of the Woman’s Club. Lovely cool day.
August 15, 1959
Cloudy today – lovely showers this P.M. I should say about ½ inch. I baked a cake. Getting ready for Nellie Dehan, who is coming tomorrow. I picked my last gladiola today. Have had them in my house all summer. About 2 ½ mos.
August 16, 1959
Taught my S.S. class – attended church (Charles preached) Went up to Covington and got Nellie. She came in on the 6:15 bus. Wonderful to have her here.
August 17, 1959
Took Nellie to Stillwater and showed her the college. Picked up Nieves de Leon, who is going to K.C. tomorrow with Bob and Gerry Schaefer on a co-op tour. We returned by way of Perry and visited the pottery plant. The Schaefers came after Nieves in the early evening. Hot day.
August 18, 1959
I took Nellie to the Glass Mts. + Fairview where she lived as a child She found the house where the family lived, also visited with an old schoolmate + I went by way of Enid so she could see the skyline. Very hot day.
August 19, 1959
Nellie and I rested up for the ordeal of Anadarko. Planned to retire early but Nieves didn’t get in form K.C. till 11:30. We are going to take her to the Indian Exposition.
August 20, 1959
Got up early – ate a hurried breakfast and started. Arrived at Anadarko about 9 and fortunately managed to grab a tourist court. No parade this P.M. so we spent the time looking at the exhibits of Indian works. Attended the magnificent colorful spectacle in the evening – tribal dances featured. Hot day.
August 21, 1959
Spent all forenoon at Indian City. Then drove to Apache to visit old Jason Betzinez and his sweet old wife. Nieves greatly thrilled – her first chance to see Indians. Took by to the Schaefers – arrived home about 6. Stopped at Hennessey to get her a Geronimo tumbler. Hot day.
August 22, 1959
Nellie and I stayed at home all day but didn’t exactly rest. She washed and ironed a whole lot of my dresses. (Bless her! I shall miss her when she leaves.) Hot day. It is terribly dry – last Saturday’s rain long forgotten.
August 23, 1959
I took Nellie to S.S. (I taught my class) and church. Charles preached a fine sermon. Directly after the sermon I took Nellie to Covington to catch the 11:45 bus. Not so hot. I certainly enjoyed Nellie’s visit.
August 24, 1959
Got back to work. But I certainly miss Nellie. Wish we lived closer. Mrs. Mackey’s funeral this P.M. I didn’t attend – didn’t know her. My very last gladiola finished blooming today. Not so hot but terribly dry. Got a touch of migraine this evening.
August 25, 1959
Felt bad all day because of the migraine attack last night. It came on without warning in the evening. I guess I did too much last week. I’m glad I didn’t get it at Anadarko.
August 26, 1959
I stayed away from lodge because I was still feeling a little limp from the migraine.
August 27, 1959
[No entry]
August 28, 1959
I believe this was the day Mrs. Englebrecht died in Guthrie. Funeral in Guthrie Aug. 30. I shall not attend because of the heat and Kay’s wedding that evening.
August 29, 1959
Terribly hot day. I cleaned my house, which needed it badly. It is getting terribly dry. Fortunately we still have city water.
August 30, 1959
Bad dust storm just before morning My house is deep with it. I taught my S.S. Class and listened to Charles’ last sermon before he starts back to school. In the evening Kay and William were married at the church. Lovely wedding of a fine couple. Cool and cloudy today – sprinkled some.
August 31, 1959
The whole town was shocked this morning to hear that lovely little Norma Jean Wilson Day was killed in a car wreck last evening and her husband critically injured. She had been here over the weekend to visit her poor old mother, and were on their way home.
September 1, 1959
Legal liquor sales go into effect today – first since the salloons [sic] closed at statehood. I have seen Okla. both wet and dry and dry is better even though not perfect. S.S. teachers’ meeting at church this evening.
September 2, 1959
Went to Guild at the church this P.M. – or rather at the vacant parsonage. There is too much hammering in the church. The new addition is fine. The builder expects to have it finished in a few days.
September 3, 1959
We really got a rain this morning. I should judge almost an inch. It is fine but we need much more. I went up to the cemetery where graveside services were held over the poor little shattered body of Norma Jean. Her husband still in critical condition.
September 4, 1959
I drove to Enid and made reservation for plane trip Sept. 21-22. Went on to town and visited Mrs. Hawkins and Esther Porter. Also did a little shopping – bought some shoes at a frightful price - $13+. Never paid such a price before.
September 5, 1959
Worked hard on correspondence.
September 6, 1959
Sept. 7. Nothing much happened. I just worked hard all day. Spent some time setting up Alma Friend’s projector I borrowed for club tomorrow. Hot.
September 7, 1959
[Sept. 6, 1959 in place for Sept. 7, 1959] Taught my S.S. class – attended church. Roland Ficken preached. Fine sermon, amazingly deep for a boy of his age. Went in P.M. to open house of beautiful new Catholic church. I went with the Schaefer girls and they came in for a visit when they brought me back.
September 8, 1959
Hot day I drove to Stillwater and I got Nieves de Leon for visit to school and club luncheon. She spent 2 hrs. at school. Luncheon at Winnie Branen’s for start of club year. Nieves showed slides of her Mexican trip last spring. Gerry Schaefer took her back.
September 9, 1959
It was cloudy today and sprinkled a little in the P.M. I went to lodge in the evening.
September 10, 1959
Sent off review of I Fought with Geronimo to N.Y. Times. Learned that Louise Spray’s brother died last night. Had been working in Wichita, came home for the week end, became ill Sunday. Was taken to a hospital. It was polio. Died last night. Also learned that Olive Cook who had been taken to the hospital for an exploratory operation is full of cancer. We are so sad about it. Cold day. 50° this morning.
September 11, 1959
Even colder than yesterday. I am working on a lesson I am to give on Okla. history Sept. 18 and a presentation of educational work of church to Rocky Mt. Synod Sept. 22.
September 12, 1959
Another nice cold day. I am working on assignments for Sept. 18 and Sept. 22.
September 13, 1959
Went home & had dinner with Schaefer girls. Taught my S.S. class, attended church – Roland preached. In P.M. went with Schaefer sisters to Enid to funeral of Fred Windler’s father. We all rode with the Richard Webers, Winnie Schaefer went also Cold this morning but warmed up in P.M. – The S.S. classes met in the new building.
September 14, 1959
Drove to O.C. to meeting of State Advisory Committee of Civil Rights Commission. Bought a hat – pretty but cheap $3. Cold in morning, warm in P.M.
September 15, 1959
Worked on talk I am to make at Rocky Mt. fall meeting of synod. Planted tulips in the evening. Just at bedtime a migraine attack. I have not used my air conditioner since the cold weather started Sept. 10.
September 16, 1959
Felt bad all day from migraine attack last night. Too weak to work much. In P.M. I went to Xn church to a woman’s meeting, where Judge Ruth Patterson made fine explanation of wills and probate matters. We have a very fine county judge.
September 17, 1959
Worked on TV lesson for tomorrow and education presentation at synod Tues. – representing Bd of Xn Ed. & Publication and Commission on Higher Education.
September 18, 1959
Drove to O.C., where I met Mrs. McCain and others at TV center. Then gave 30 min. lesson for 9th grade on Plains Indians. Hot, windy, dusty day.
September 19, 1959
Nothing in particular happened. I just worked. Miserable dry wind blowing. I used my air conditioner some in the P.M.
September 20, 1959
Taught my S.S. class. Preaching by a young man from Phillips named Raymond Williams. High dry wind – worse than yesterday. Nelle Thomas and her grand daughter called this afternoon.
September 21, 1959
Another hot windy day in Okla. Drove to Enid, took plane about one – Central to Denver, Frontier to Scottsbluff, Neb. Reached here about 7. Staying with a fine couple. Mr. & Mrs. Wilhelm. He is pastor of church where the meeting will be held. They were missionaries in China, expelled by Communists.
September 22, 1959
Beautiful bright cool day, but a hard one for me. I presented work of Board of Xn. Ed. and Com. for Higher Ed. to whole synod (Rocky Mt.) in morning, to 3 separate discussion groups in P.M. I enjoyed the people but got tired. Plane got to Denver about 10:30 – am in Skyway Motel.
September 23, 1959
Left Denver at 8 this A.M., reached Enid about one. Saw clouds gathering to the north as I came in but still hot and dry at Enid. Drove out to spend the P.M. and night visiting Esther Porter. A very heavy rain came up in mid-afternoon and evening. And how we did need it.
September 24, 1959
Drove home this morning thru rain (rained all night I think). Rained off and on all day – very heavy one this evening. We are all so happy about it.
September 25, 1959
Rained every time I woke up during the night and some in the forenoon. Cleared off this evening. Frogs singing – a sound I have not heard all summer. Altogether about 8 in fell here – not too much but some of it too hard
September 26, 1959
Yesterday and today I worked very hard arranging and cutting clippings for our Woman’s Club pressbook. I got it finished this evening but not in time for it to go out on the mail. Lovely bright day.
September 27, 1959
Taught my S.S. class and heard fine sermon by our student preacher, Raymond Williams. In the afternoon the Schaefer girls came for me and we took a short drive. Saw evidence of erosion damage to fields from last week’s too violent rains.
September 28, 1959
I drove to Stillwater to check some misstatements I found in Lewes [?] Meyer’s Preposterous Papa, which I am reviewing for the New York Times. In the evening went to a baby shower for Mrs. DeWitt. Warm day. Saw eva
September 29, 1959
I wrote my review but didn’t get it sent out. It is raining a little this evening.
September 30, 1959
It rained during the night and drizzled most of the day. Our church women’s guild had planned our retreat at Camp Redlands so about 14 of us braved the weather and went anyhow. My car wasn’t needed and so I rode with Mary Burchardt. The dirt roads were bad but she is a super driver. We enjoyed the meeting.
October 1, 1959
Rained all night and all day. It is not very cold but I am using my furnace.
October 2, 1959
Rained all night and all day – oh, some let-up but not much.
October 3, 1959
Another night and day of rain. Sometimes the showers are very hard. High water and damage all over the state. Stillwater and Guthrie hard hit.
October 4, 1959
I didn’t hear the rain last night but the morning showed it had been very heavy. Mr. Friend measured it at 3 ½ in. His rain gauge show added up to 18 ½ in. since Sept. 23. There were 43 at S.S. – good attendance for such a day. I taught my class. The preacher tried to get here from Enid but was turned back. I had dinner with the Schaefer girls. Rained Drizzled all day. Still doing it
October 5, 1959
It didn’t rain all night and this morning it cleared off. Beautiful golden sunshine, blue sky, soft white clouds. It seemed wonderful. But in the P.M. a shower collected and went around. It only sprinkled here. I washed my summer drapes and put them away and put up my good winter curtains.
October 6, 1959
Another day that started clear, clouded up, but didn’t rain. Oliver Seefeldt put a weather strip on my front door.
October 7, 1959
The Guild women cleaned the church today. I was ready to help but the telephone rang and I spent the whole P.M. on long distance calls (and attempted calls) about sale of the old Indian agency buildings at Anadarko.
October 8, 1959
There was a pot luck supper (and what food!) at the church to give the congregation a chance to meet with the Simpsons of Lewisville, Tex. He is interested in coming as our pastor.
October 9, 1959
[No entry]
October 10, 1959
I kept the Will Rogers Library this P.M. This morning Oliver Seefeldt painted my 4 north windows so I can put on storm windows.
October 11, 1959
Mission festival at the church – I did not teach my S.S. class, combined with Bill Schaefer’s. Sermon by Mr. Williams, pot luck dinner, afternoon sermon by Schneider of O.C. Fine attendance.
October 12, 1959
Fall synod meeting at the church but I was too busy to attend. Got a permanent this morning.
October 13, 1959
Esther Last night or night before We had another rain – not heavy but enough to postpone wheat planting still further. (I’m making late entry.) Went to Club in P.M. I had report on World Refugee Year.
October 14, 1959
Lovely bright day. I am working on a review of two beautiful Catlin books. Fields still too wet to plant wheat.
October 15, 1959
Bright golden day. I worked some more on my review. Tough job. Still no wheat planting.
October 16, 1959
Sent out the review. Loveliest day we have had – warm, bright, perfect. Grass green, wild flowers blooming.
October 17, 1959
Wind turned to the north last night and it is colder today. I cleaned up some of the debris of writing the review and got ready for showing some pictures to a Westminster Foundation group at Guthrie tomorrow.
October 18, 1959
It frosted slightly last night – showed white on the roofs. I taught my S.S. class – heard a very fine sermon by Mr. Williams. A congregational meeting after church voted not to call Mr. Simpson, hoping to get Mr. Williams. I drove to Guthrie, showed pictures to the young people at the Presbyterian Church. Am. Staying with the Le Hews.
October 19, 1959
Beth Le Hew called all the second hand furniture stores to help me hunt a book case. (No new ones. People don’t read!) I found three but none suited me. I also talked with the secretary at the county health office in preparation for the next Guild meeting. Lovely weather.
October 20, 1959
I cleaned my house and did various chores. In the P.M. we had a meeting of the traffic improvement group – the last one – and decided to study a project for bringing foreign students to our community. Lovely day.
October 21, 1959
Last night I asked old Slim Chapman if he could revarnish one of the book cases I saw Monday. He agreed. And so I drove back to Guthrie and bought it. $12.50 and I had a broken glass door put in for $1. I took Claudia along. Lovely day.
October 22, 1959
Held the last meeting (at the school-house) of the committee that has wrought such a revolution in the town traffic pattern. Suggested that the group bring to their the societies they represent the idea of entertaining foreign college students. [This entire passage is crossed out.]
October 23, 1959
Last night I asked old Slim Chapman if he would sand and revarnish one of the book cases I saw Monday. He agreed. And so I drove down and bought I went to Enid and bought a new filing cabinet. Cost $48. I stopped and saw Mrs. Hawkins.
October 24, 1959
The Mistletoe Express delivered the new filing cabinet and I worked hard rearranging my files. The farmers are working very hard putting their fields back in shape for wheat planting after the destructive rains.
October 25, 1959
Taught my S.S. class and attended church. Raymond Williams preached a fine sermon. In the evening the Schaefer girls came by and took me for a drive. We are having lovely weather all the time. But some of the damage fields are still in a pitiable state. Some planting has been accomplished.
October 26, 1959
I worked on various things – for tomorrow, for Wed. etc. – also correspondence.
October 27, 1959
Woman’s Club met at home of Mrs. Baugh. Lovely weather.
October 28, 1959
All day meeting of church women’s guild at O.C. I rode down with Alice Draper. The leaves are lovely but some are still green. Will be more colorful later if it doesn’t frost. Windy day but warm.
October 29, 1959
Alice Pipla came to help me and we cleaned house, especially waxing floors. Lovely warm day – just right for washing windows outside. But rain is on the way, say the weather men. The wheat is nearly all in and most of the farmers would be glad to have it.
October 30, 1959
Alice and I (mainly Alice) finished the house except some of the outside windows. It rained last night – about ¾ in. I should say – and was cloudy and sprinkling all day, not right for washing windows. Cute kids in masks came by all the evening for their Halloween treats. I enjoy them.
October 31, 1959
Failed to make entry. About all I remember is that there were more happy “Tricks or Treats” Hallow-Eeners. It pays to be ready both nights.
November 1, 1959
Taught my S.S. class and attended church. Went home with Schaefer girls. Richard and Huldah Weber there, and Winnie Schafer. It was a celebration of Huldah’s birthday a day or so ago. Some-how I am pretty tired. Forgot most important. Congregational meeting after church, voted unanimously to “call” Raymond Williams as minister till he has to leave for Chicago next fall. Beautiful sunny day.
November 2, 1959
Lovely day. The Inter. Hosp. comee met at the schoolhouse to make final plans for the entertainment of the foreign students who will spend the Thanksgiving holidays in our homes. The town people are showing wonderful spirit. [All of this entry was crossed out.]
November 3, 1959
[No entry for November 3, 1959]
November 4, 1959
Went to Guild – Mrs. Woody, public health nurse, was there with sanitarian – also dist. supervisor from Stillwater. They showed pictures. Good meeting. For several days it has been so warm I have used the furnace only briefly in the morning. But tonight the wind changed to the north and it is getting cold.
November 5, 1959
Really cold today. Everything froze solid. (Before this we had only one light morning frost.) The ice stayed hard on the bird bath all day. Leaves killed on the trees.
November 6, 1959
Still cold – bird bath unmelted. I attended (and took part in) World Community Day at the Xn church. This evening Sid Oliver came and put expensive (and how!) storm windows on the north side of my house.
November 7, 1959
Wind back in south but chilly.
November 8, 1959
Taught my class in S.S. Attended church. Communion service. Fine sermon by Raymond Williams. In P.M. the committee Chas Burchardt appointed for his ordination had a meeting – Bob. Schaefer, Francis Ficken and I – also Raymond W’ms. Lovely sunny day.
November 9, 1959
[No entry]
November 10, 1959
Held a meeting at one o’clock at schoolhouse of new committee to entertain foreign students. They elected me chairman!! Catholic, Disciples, and E & R, churches and Marshall Woman’s Club were represented. At 2, I went to club meeting at Carol Burkhart’s. Warm day. Heard frightening news about Huldah Weber.
November 11, 1959
Attended meeting of officers and heads of depts. of Woman’s Guild at church to plan next year’s work. Went to lodge in evening. Warm day.
November 12, 1959
Warm day but cloudy part of the time. I planted the rest of my tulips this evening. Planted some on Sept. 15, intended to finish as soon as I returned from Scottsbluff but the rain turned my garden into a quagmire.
November 13, 1959
Sometime in the night it started getting cold. Kept getting worse all day, Terribly cold this evening. My storm windows are so nice I decided to have four others. I baked some date bread for Huldah Schaefer and Winnie Branen. Winnie is very tired. Joseph has had an operation but is recovering.
November 14, 1959
Pretty cold this morning but it cleared off and became bright and sunny though still crisp. The Schaefer girls and Richard are desperately worried about Hulal Huldah Weber.
November 15, 1959
Lovely day but still crisp. The ice in my bird bath remained frozen all day. I taught my S.S. class and heard a fine sermon by Raymond Williams. His baby – a boy – was born two or three days ago.
November 16, 1959
Cloudy this morning and wind turned to north and got very cold. Are we to have another bad winter? Last year was enough for me. Got fine letter from Burton and Dorine, Nellie, and Pearl coming for Thanksgiving.
November 17, 1959
Sunny but still very cold. Held meeting at schoolhouse with International Friendship Committee organized last week. Marshall will entertain eight foreign students over Thanksgiving holidays.
November 18, 1959
Still rather cold. I went to Stillwater this evening to the International talent program and crafts exhibit – went with Guy and Carol Burkhart. We met six of the students who will visit in the homes here Thanksgiving.
November 19, 1959
[No entry]
November 20, 1959
Warm day. I washed my four front windows and especially the casings which were red with ground-in dust. I am getting ready to have storm windows put on.
November 21, 1959
[No entry]
November 22, 1959
Taught my S.S. class and heard an even-better-than-usual sermon by Raymond Williams. The men of the church will paper the parsonage and bring the Williams family down this week. Warm day.
November 23, 1959
Lovely day. The International Hospitality Committee met at the schoolhouse to plan our entertainment of foreign students. I baked 3 loaves of white, 2 of date bread – really getting ready for Thanksgiving.
November 24, 1959
I cleaned my house, made a jello salad, and spent much time at the telephone on various details of the foreign students’ visits. The people are showing a wonderful spirit. Lovely warm day. Norma Vogel (bless her) brought me a fine dressed hen.
November 25, 1959
I drove to Stillwater to bring back some of the foreign students. We brought 8 in all from – 7 from OSU, 1 from Phillips. I attended Thanksgiving service at the church in the evening. At 9:30 Burton, Dorine, and Nellie came. Pearl was ill and not able to come. Lovely, warm day.
November 26, 1959
Very happy Thanksgiving day with these beloved cousins. Turkey, pumpkin pie, and everything. It started getting cold and a little snow sifted down. We hope there will be no blocked roads. It is pleasant to think of these foreign students so far from home having family experiences in Marshall today.
November 27, 1959
It cleared off and the day is lovely. The cousins started home in late forenoon. Bless them for coming so far. There was a community supper this evening for the foreign students. It was in the E. and R. church. Also we took 3 of the girls to see the Huffer dairy. Zeenath Rahim of Pakistan is staying with me.
November 28, 1959
Got up at 5:30 to see Zeenath off to the OSU-OU football game at Norman. She is going with our high school band. I took 3 of the young people back to Stillwater this P.M. Zeenath is staying at the Branens tonight. Nice day.
November 29, 1959
Taught my S.S. class and attended church. Nice day.
November 30, 1959
Had meeting of the Hospitality Committee that arranged for foreign students and for the hostesses who had them in their homes. All most enthusiastic about the success of the project. In evening pancake supper at the Church.
December 1, 1959
Spent all day in Enid on a club tour. Arrived about 10 – some shopped while I visited Mrs. Hawkins. Then we had luncheon together and went for a tour through the home for feeble minded. Then meeting at home of Mrs. Griffon. In evening I attended S.S. teachers’ meeting
December 2, 1959
Women’s Guild at the church had its Christmas program. It was good.
December 3, 1959
Mr. Wu, who was the Drapers’ guest Thanksgiving is having visa trouble. We went to Stillwater this evening and talked with him. He is a refugee from both Red China and Indonesia. To return would mean prison, perhaps death. We will try to help him.
December 4, 1959
I wrote my Xmas letter and made a stencil; then took it out to Leona Rudy who will mimeograph it for me. How nice of her!
December 5, 1959
Leona brought my finished letters, I kept the library this P.M. but not a borrower came. Wasted time! Nice weather these days.
December 6, 1959
I taught my S.S. class and attended church. In the P.M. was Every Member Canvass for the budget pledges. Bob Schaefer and Melvin Swaine called on me. I enjoyed them so much I told them I would pledge only one month at a time so they would have to come back. Nice day.
December 7, 1959
Lovely warm day. I even turned off my furnace. I am sending out my Xmas letters. In the evening I drove out to see Roberta Bostick about plans for foreign students during Xmas holidays.
December 8, 1959
The Drapers and I got letters from our boy Wu that disturbed us so much that we called tried to call Sen. Monroney & Tom Steed – both in Washington. So I called Carl Albert in whom I have great confidence. He was away but his exec. assistant said he would see us on Thursday. Nice weather.
December 9, 1959
We called Wu this morning and told him we would take him to McAlester tomorrow. So good of Leo Draper to leave his business and take that long drive. But Mr. Albert himself called and talked with me later and said better meet him at Shawnee Friday. I attended lodge.
December 10, 1959
It sprinkled a little – a lovely warm gray day. I hope the weather stays good for our trip to Shawnee. I am very grateful to Mr. Albert for his helpful spirit. I hope we can work out something for our boy.
December 11, 1959
We met Mr. Albert and he readily agreed to introduce a special bill to admit our boy to refugee status – after he had checked story at Immigration Bureau. His excec. assistant, Chas. Ward, & Mr. Steed’s asst. Truman Richardson were helpful also – fine young men. So tired I went to bed at eight.
December 12, 1959
Yesterday I asked Mr. Albert if he wanted me to write a letter telling Wu’s story. He said yes and I worked on it today. But this morning Wu called and said he wanted to see me before I sent it, and would try to find a way over. I told him there is no bus and I would see him.
December 13, 1959
I taught my S.S. class, attended church, then had committee meeting at 2 to plan Charles’ ordination. Then I drove to Stillwater. There was really no need of a conference with Wu but when his actual life is at stake he wants to weigh every word. It was dark when I started back and I have quit taking long drives at night but my eyes are good and there is really no danger. I found it easy.
December 14, 1959
I woke up at 5:30 so got up and started my final copy of the letter. Got it in the mail, then wrote to Wu. In the P.M. attended a meeting at the schoolhouse to plan for inviting foreign students over during vacation. Fine meeting. Nice warm rain tonight.
December 15, 1959
Lovely rain last night – just right to make the wheat grow. Sprinkled off and on all day. Warm and nice. I went to Club meeting at Ila Smith’s.
December 16, 1959
Good rain last night – just what the wheat needed. Drizzled all day. Warm lovely day.
December 17, 1959
I drove to Enid today to find about plane schedules for a trip I have to take to Pittsburgh the first week in Jan. Rained all night and off and on all day. I hope it doesn’t rain too much.
December 18, 1959
Bright beautiful warm day – perfect after all the good rain. We decorated the church for Xmas – then ate pie and drank coffee. Enjoyed it. Raymond Winburn painted my front windows ready for storm windows.
December 19, 1959
I cleaned my house today and how it needed it. Spent the rest of the day writing. I am behind with my Xmas letters because of time spent helping Wu – but that problem seems in process of solution. Also I have done much writing re Charles’ ordination.
December 20, 1959
Taught my S.S. class – communion service at church. In evening attended the Christmas program at the Xn church. Beautiful bright day. In the evening the carolers sang. I have not put up a tree or Xmas decorations this year. Spent my spare time on Wu and that’s more imp.
December 21, 1959
Another beautiful bright day. But I found it crisp outside when I washed my newly painted windows to be ready for the storm windows. August and Catherene Burchardt called. I was so happy to see them. They are here for Charles’ ordination.
December 22, 1959
Gloomy dark day but warm – some light rain fell. I am still working on the Christmas letters – also a few letters to wind up my part of the Wu business. We are going to save that boy if two good members of Congress can do it.
December 23, 1959
I am getting everything ready for the coming weekend – there are cookies for the reception, food to be prepared for the Burchardts & church dinner, hair to be fixed, etc.
December 24, 1959
A very fine Christmas program at the church this evening. I have been so crowded this year that I have not put up a tree or any other decorations in my house. First time I ever neglected it, but Chas. Burchardt & Chien-Min Wu are more important than a wreath on my door.
December 25, 1959
August & Catherene Burchardt and Dottie and Norm Baguhn are stay I went to church Xmas service at 10. Raymond had the best service I ever attended. I had planned to work the rest of the day but Mabel Bryson asked me to have Xmas dinner with them. Chas. & Janie & Cindy are there. I enjoyed it.
December 26, 1959
August & Catherene Burchardt, also the Baguhns are staying with me. They came this evening. Packed tight in my little house. The Baguhns have their 5-mo. old adopted baby, Becky. She is a fine baby. It has been warm all week and tonight we had a hard, quick spring shower. No fire Not using my furnace.
December 27, 1959
Full day but a good one. I taught my S.S. class. Geo. Schler preached. Big crowd of visitors Dinner and supper at Lions’ Den. Ordination service in evening and reception afterwards. Everything went off exactly right. The whole congregation worked together. All love Charles and Janie.
December 28, 1959
My guests left this afternoon. They were badly crowded in my little house but I at least had good beds for them. They used my place as a sort of base as they called on people, etc. I am so happy to have them.
December 29, 1959
Nice bright day with white frost this morning. A little colder than the warm weather of last week. I have been busy with odds and ends.
December 30, 1959
Another day of odds and ends – mainly getting things ready for the first Women’s Guild meeting of the year next week – which I must miss. Lovely warm weather.
December 31, 1959
Worked all afternoon with a committee auditing the Rebekah books. In the evening drove out to the Bob Schaefers for supper and a pleasant evening with them and their two guests Nieves de Leon and a girl from Iran. Dar Some rain Dark day – a little rain falling.