January 1 - December 31, 1969
(Box 5/Folder 8)
January 1, 1969
Clear Day, warming up, some thawing. I finished Chapt.13.
January 2, 1969
Beautiful sunny day, Much of the snow melted. I worked on Ch. 14. Ramona finished the final copy of Ch. 2. She is treading on my heels.
January 3, 1969
Workied on Ch. 14, Dennis Frank and his wife, Patricia came to see me with Nora Frank. I had not see Dennis since he was a freshman in h. s. He is fine & so is Patricia. In the evening Pat and Ramona came. I enjoyed them so much. Cold day again - no snow melting.
January 4, 1969
It warmed up a little – the sun shone, and some snow melted. I worked on Ch. 14.
January 5, 1969
Taught my S.S. class. In the church service Chad Allen Rudd was baptized. Wonderful sermon, communion service. Basket dinner at the church and in the P.M. The annual congregational meeting. Fine meeting. Paul Schler elected president. Oliver Rudd elected on board.
January 6, 196[9]
Worked on Ch. 14 in Morning. In P.M. went to Stillwater to have my Filipina dress fitted. Tried to buy a coat but failed. Lovely warm day but there is still much snow in ditches, etc.
January 7, 196[9]
Finished Chapt. 14. Have decided to break Chapt. 15 into two, so will have 20 chapts. Warm day.
January 8, 1969
Worked on Chapt. 15 [I must have gone to library Staff meeting at Stillwater & made entry late, & failed to record it. If so I didn’t work on Chapt. 15].
January 9, 1969
There is still snow in the ditches. My dress came in the mail. I suddenly decided to buy a coat I saw yesterday, so dashed over to Stillwater and got it. It is not what I wanted but I need one so badly. Nicely made, will do for rain coat and general wear but not dressy. Got it on sale for 28.80, with tax. Worked on Chapt. 15. Bad day.
January 10, 1969
Put on my new dress and went down for Ramona to see it. She liked it. And so do I. It has been quite a problem, an exotic fabric that I should never have thought of wearing. But it turned out O.K. It snowed this P.M. I worked on Chapt. 15.
January 11, 1969
I don’t remember anything but working on Ch. 15. I’m making late entry. The snow was only a thin skim and it soon left. Perhaps this was the day I finished Ch. 10. Yes, think so.
January 12, 1969
I taught my S.S. class and attended church. The baby of George and Darla Beeby was baptized. I wore my new dress. I like it.
January 13, 1969
Probably Possibly this was the day I finished Ch. 15. Or perhaps more likely I did that on Jan. 11 and worked on Ch. 16 this day. Late entry.
January 14, 1979
I worked on Chapt. 16. In the afternoon went to Club at Madonna’s, Fine meeting. Madonna showed beautiful slides took of the Scandinavian countries. I believe this was the day Pres. Johnson gave his “State of the Union” message to Cong. They gave him an ovation and I was glad. He did his best – if only he hadn’t got mired in that Vietnam War.
January 15, 1969
I worked on Chapt. 16. I believe.
January 16, 1969
Finished Ch. 16. This is really the last half of what I intended for Ch. 15. Now I shall have 20 chapts. instead of 19. Foggy morning, miserable dark day.
January 17, 1969
Worked on Chapt. 17 but didn’t accomplish much. Spent some time preparing Ch. 6, giving it a last reading, for Ramona. Also wrote some church letters. Also tired.
January 18, 1969
Worked on Chapt. 17. We are having miserable cloudy weather. The sun shone a few minutes this P.M. and people are so happy. Oklahomans can’t do without big skies and sun. The weather is not cold – just dismal.
January 19, 1969
Taught my S.S. class and heard a fine sermon. Probably Rev. Bob should not have been there for he thinks he is coming down with flu. I learned this evening that Pat O’Neill is very sick with Hong Kong flu. Was sick yesterday also.
January 20, 1969
Pat pretty sick, says Ramona over telephone. I heard Pres. Nixon’s inaugural address. Very fine. The prayers were awful, I doubt that they rose very high – They didn’t reach even as far as me. I worked on Chapt. 17.
January 21, 1969
Pat still ill, though he seems better by Ramona’s reports. I finished Ch. 17 (formerly Ch. 16.) Did a little preliminary reading of Chapt. 18. Foggy in the morning – misty all th day. That is the sort of weather we are having this month.
January 22, 1969
Pat’s temperature is nor normal Ramona says, so he is over it. Pauline Abercrombie came to see me. I started Ch. 18. Usual fog this morning but the sun soon came out and we had a beautiful bright warm day. People are so happy. But suddenly this evening a cold wind came up.
January 23, 1969
Cold dark day but not storming. I worked on Ch. 18. Pat called me. He is up and around but weak.
January 24, 1969
Worked some more on Chapt. 18. It would be easy to revise these chapters except that they are all too long and I have to condense them.
January 25, 1969
Practically finished Chapter 18. Worked in the library in the afternoon.
January 26, 1969
Taught my S.S. class and heard a fine sermon. Sent my check to make reservation for an Alaska tour. Warm sunny day.
January 27, 1969
Finished Ch. 18. Didn’t start Ch. 19 – attended to requests for information I need in Ch. 20. Attended library board meeting this evening. Miserable misty, dark day – not cold.
January 28, 1969
Still worked on other things than Ch. 19. Attended Club in P.M. at Elnora Cassaday’s. Fine meeting. Miserable dark day. Mrs. Vogel died, also Elizabeth Diedrich’s mother.
January 29, 1969
Worked on Ch. [1]9. Some freezing rain but streets not slick. Mrs. Vogel was buried today but I didn’t attend the funeral on account of weather. Elizabeth Diedrich’s mother had funeral at Perry.
January 30, 1969
My birthday. And people – bless them – sent me cards. The Brysons brought me a beautiful plant and Rev. Bob brought me a jar of plum jelly Ruth made. I worked on Chapt. 19.
January 31, 1969
Still working on Chapt. 19. It is too long and I have to condense and discard.
February 1, 1969
Worked on Chapt. 19. Worked in library in afternoon.
February 2, 1969
Had a fine S.S. class. Communion service at the church hour. The sun really came out this afternoon. We are having miserable dark days.
February 3, 1969
The sun came up in a clear sky – about the first time since the first New Year. And the sky was clear all day. Beautiful! I worked on Ch. 19.
February 4, 1969
Saw the sun come up again this morning but some skimmy clouds appeared this P.M. I finished Ch. 19. Didn’t get much done on Ch. 20 – just some planning.
February 5, 1969
Decided to make 2 chapters of Ch. 20. Didn’t get much writing done. My new Ch. 20 is about Alaska. Rather complicated.
February 6, 1969
Worked on Ch. 20. We are having warm weather this week.
February 7, 1969
Worked on Ch. 20.
February 8, 1969
Worked on Ch. 20, Ramona is treading on my heels. She finished Ch. 13 today.
February 9, 1969
I taught my S.S. class and heard a fine sermon. In the evening we had a birthday party at the church for Rev. Bob. He was completely surprised.
February 10, 1969
Worked on Ch. 20. Beautiful warm spring day.
February 11, 1969
Worked on Chapt. 20 in the morning. Went to Club in afternoon. It was at the Catholic parish house – Margaret Perdue hostess. Beautiful bright warm day. I wore a light dress and no wrap.
February 12, 1969
Just worked on Ch. 20. I am finding it very hard to write. Too much has happened since I wrote the first draft.
February 13, 1969
Worked on Ch. 20. Not much else happened.
February 14, 1969
I finally finished Ch. 20, tho’ I think when it gets cold I’ll smooth it down a little. It rained a little and snowed off and on all day. Dismal. I got a permanent.
February 15, 1969
The ground was white this morning though it was warm and much snow melted. Muddy and dark all day. I started on Chapter 21. My last chapter.
February 16, 1969
I had a fine S.S. class and heard a fine sermon. Our whole S.S. except the adults started to day on its union program – Catholics, Disciples, Methodists, ours. It started off very successfully. Dark, dismal day.
February 17, 1969
I spent the day in Stillwater working in the college library. I didn’t have much luck finding what I needed, I also bought a coat, a sweater, and some bathroom rugs. Didn’t have much luck there either.
February 18, 1969
I worked on Ch. 21 but didn’t accomplish much. I really spent most of the time at some final polishing of Chapt. 20. Also I had to write a club history for a forth coming volume on Okla clubs.
February 19, 1969
Worked on Chapt. 20 21. I got too tired writing my club history yesterday evening – so couldn’t work well today.
February 20, 1969
I worked on Ch. 21 though I didn’t accomplish much. This happened.
February 21, 1969
This happened Feb. 20 To my surprise the ground this morning was covered with snow. It was warm- though dark and dismal – all day and most of the snow melted. I worked on Ch. 21. Feb. 21 was a foggy miserable day.
February 22, 1969
Still on Chapt. 21. These two last chapters had to be left unfinished when I finished my first draft in Nov. So much I am doing now is wh original writing. I finished before the election. Dark miserable day.
February 23, 1969
I taught my S.S. class and heard a very fine sermon. Dark miserable day – some rain falling. Reminds me of the first winter we spent in Oklahoma – 1899-1900 – 69 years ago. My mother noticed it so much I remember. Burton & Dorine called for a nice telephone visit.
February 24, 1969
I worked on Chapt. 21. Having a hard time with it. The sun peeked out a little for a wonder.
February 25, 1969
Went to club at Jane Vaverka’s. I had the program. Showed American history pictures. I didn’t work in the A.M. so I should be fresh, but somehow I was so tired I did a very job of it. The wheat is beautiful.
February 26, 1969
Th The sun came up this morning and shone all day. It seems pretty wonderful. Worked on Chapt. 21 I felt fine all day.
February 27, 1969
Worked on Ch. 21. Thought I should finish but not quite. Cloudy as usual.
February 28, 1969
The sun shone all day. And I finished my last chapter! Yippee! I still have the preface to write.
February 29, 1969
[No entry.
March 1, 1969
I wrote a little on my preface but didn’t finish it – didn’t work hard enough. In the afternoon I kept the library. Warm day.
March 2, 1969
Taught my S.S. class. Heard a fine sermon. Communion service. Dark stormy day. Something is falling – I don’t know whether rain or sleet. The streets look slick.
March 3, 1969
Did a little more work on Chapt. 21 and my preface. Would have gone to Stillwater to library staff luncheon but it looked stormy, so I set bread. Then the sun shone but I had to stay with my bread.
March 4, 1969
Nice day. I worked some more on my book in the morning. In the P.M. went to Guthrie to see the assessor. I called on Mrs. Schrage at the Masonic Home. She is feeble & her mind is becoming confused.
March 5, 1969
Miserable dark day sprinkled most of the time and some flakes of snow fell. I really finished my book today. I feel so free. Now I am reading it for errors.
March 6, 1969
Called on Olga Schaefer and the Webers. I am still working at odds and ends on my book but not slaving.
March 7, 1969
Attended World Day of Prayer at Disciples’ Church. This evening Grace Goodman called me from S. Car. to tell me the Scales’ older daughter is very low with terminal cancer. I am very unhappy about it. Hard shower this evening, with thunder! I carried my MS to the cellar.
March 8, 1969
Surprised to see snow on the ground this morning. Very cold day. But the sun came out in the afternoon. I had a migraine attack this morning. Still reading my MS.
March 9, 1969
Had a good S.S. class and went to church. In the afternoon went with Pat and Ramona to O.C. to see Walt Disney’s “Swiss Family Robinson” and dinner afterwards. Got home early.
March 10, 1969
Cold day. Worked some on my MS – giving it a final reading. In the P.M. went to Enid and planned an Alaska tour with Jayne’s Travel Service.
March 11, 1969
In the morning made cookies for Club. In P.M. we had meeting in which a very able Mr. Kennedy showed a film and answered questions about “head start” in this county and edge of Lincoln. Very fine program.
March 12, 1969
Surprised to see the ground white with snow this morning. All my MS is done except some corrections and changes Ramona is making for me. Snow melted by noon.
March 13, 1969
I worked one hour at the Library library while Ramona finished the MS. Then she relieved me and I wrapped and mailed it. Yippee! In the evening we went to a lovely place off Interstate 35 and ate dinner to celebrate. (Pat was away on business.) Lovely warm sunny day. I hope that is a good omen.
March 14, 1969
Surprised to see snow all over the ground this morning. Worked on putting things in files files, etc. Snowed all day, soft, no drifting.
March 15, 1969
Snowed Cloudy and cold but snow melted some. I wrote neglected letters.
March 16, 1969
Had a good S.S. class, heard a fine sermon. Cleared off in the afternoon and got warm.
March 17, 1969
Lovely warm spring day. I started cleaning up neglected correspondence.
March 18, 1969
Lovely day. Actually two in a row! Frances Peach, Jane Vaverka and I drove around planning a historical tour for “Prairie City” week. Great fun. Then I worked on the historical sketches.
March 19, 1969
I drove to Stillwater and worked in the library. A new government publication has come out about Alaska land. Warm day but windy.
March 20, 1969
I am working on early Marshall history. Another nice day.
March 21, 1969
Drove out to Johnsons home to get Nora to give me the names of children in the Sunnyside sod school. Nice day.
March 22, 1969
Dismal day. Started raining in afternoon. I kept the library Bob Crawford learned that his father had died suddenly in his Florida home.
March 23, 1969
Rained all last night and all day. Had our S.S. as usual. Then we went to Methodist Church for preaching service. It brought back many memories; the day in 1899 when we first went there; the day I joined the church in 1902; the place where our young peoples’ S.S. class met, etc.
March 24, 1969
I wrote letters and organized my income tax for Joseph Branen to fill out. It rained in forenoon, but cleared off in P.M. and got cold.
March 25, 1969
Attended club meeting at Winnie Branen’s. Beth Platt and Karen and Pat O’Hern showed pics of a trip they made to Europe last summer. It is spring vacation at OSU.
March 26, 1969
I worked on slides I have not attended to for several years. Working on all except the African ones.
March 27, 1969
Worked again on slides. Finished all the misc. ones from home affairs, summer institute of 1967, and trip up to Chicago up to Xmas 1968.
March 28, 1969
Learned that the Scales’ daughter died. Started on the African slides, numbered after I came back, but not fully labeled. Eisenhower died today. He had served his country well if only he had not made such a failure as president.
March 29, 1969
Learned that the Scales’ daughter died. Worked on my African slides. Cold day but sunny.
March 30, 1969
Had fine S.S. class and heard a very fine sermon by Rev. Bob. Sweet Julie Verska joined the church. In the P.M. I worked on my Africa slides. Gloomy day but no actual rain.
March 31, 1969
Finished my Africa slides.
April 1, 1969
Wrote letters. Stanley Hitt and Sally Heydeman called. Miserable coldish wind. I washed and had a real fight to hang up the clothes.
April 2, 1969
Much thunder and a little rain last night. Lovely day. My jonquils and daffodils blooms started blooming. Late because on north side of house – this is a late spring.
April 3, 1969
I started my Egypt slides but didn’t get much done – spent time writing letters, also visiting with the Crawfords. Warm day. My daffodils have never been so lovely before. I wonder if it is because the Chinese elms are gone.
April 4, 1969
Didn’t get much done on my Egypt slides. We had the most meaningful community Good Friday service I ever attended. A community service on the lawn between our church and the Catholic. Then a communion service in the Catholic church and a supper in their parish hall.
April 5, 1969
Didn’t get much done. Finally put away my Egypt slides. Worked in the library in the afternoon.
April 6, 1969
Good S.S. class. Beautiful Easter service. In the evening I ate cake with Pat and Ramona and we did much pleasant talking.
April 7, 1969
I went to Stillwater to attend the library staff meeting. Very pleasant. Also I bought a sweater to wear to Alaska next summer. Unpleasant windy day. My daffodils and jonquils are still lovely.
April 8, 1969
Went with the Club to a meeting with Mrs. Griffin. Madonna Enmeier showed beautiful slides of Switzerland and Holland taken by Sharon.
April 9, 1969
Helped a club committee prepare a library exhibit in the Drug Store window for Prairie City Days. There are many interesting exhibits of Marshall’s early history blossoming on Main Street.
April 10, 1969
I worked hard preparing notes for our historical tour. The school plans to hold take all but the small children in three buses – which means three guides – Jane Vaverka, Frances Peach, and me – so I prepared notes for Jane and Frances.
April 11, 1969
The mocking bird is here! I heard him singing as soon as I woke up this morning. Some of our people went out on a caravan to advertise our “Prairie City Days.” I took several pictures. In my spare time I am arranging & preparing a pioneer costume.
April 12, 1969
Getting ready for “Prairie City Days.” I worked in the library in the afternoon in the P.M. I went with Stanley Hitt and put up historical markers.
April 13, 1969
Beginning of Prairie City Days. Many of us wore pioneer costumes to church. The men’s beards are looming up. I taught my S.S. class. Our pastor was away so the Rev. Mr. Welborn preached. I had a basket dinner and enjoyed P.M. program at Xn church. Very fine. Everybody in high spirits recalling early days. Cameras flashing, etc.
April 14, 1969
I put on my long dress, shawl, and my grandmother’s 1890 hat and with Frances Peach & Jane Vaverka took the school children on tours of places of local historical interest. Two tours, 3 buses each took the whole forenoon. Ate lunch at school. In the P.M. I was tired and rested.
April 15, 1969
It rained last night – about ½ inch. I have enjoyed meeting people joining in the celebration. Also work, helping them with the history.
April 16, 1969
Had a nice visit with Edna Erving and her husband Hugh Wilson. I had not seen Edna since we were little girls. This evening the siren warned us of tornado danger. I went to the cellar. No tornado but an inch of rain.
April 17, 1969
Cold day after the rain. The whole town is blossoming out in historical exhibits, early day costumes (and beards!). People are working their heads off but I never saw a community having so much fun. And it has all been good for us. There was a program at the school this evening but I didn’t go.
April 18, 1969
I took a bus load of adults and some children on a historical tour in late P.M. In the evening was an old fashioned box supper and program. I hadn’t planned to go but Stanley came after me to present an inscribed cigarette lighter to Geo. Beeby who started the whole thing. When I got up on the stage (all innocent) they gave me a plaque. I was so moved I could hardly make the presentation to George.
April 19, 1969
This was the climax. Perfect weather. I guided a tour starting at 8:30 (Two others in the morning – 8:00 & 9:00, one, perhaps 2 in P.M.) Then the parade at 11:00. I rode in a covered wagon – an authentic one drawn by mules, just like the one I came to Okla. in in 1899. In the afternoon games and contests. In the evening a street dance. All fine but I went to bed at street dance time.
April 20, 1969
Beautiful weather. My lilac is glorious. I had a rather small S. S. class. Heard fine sermon. People are still happy over the week of celebration. It has been good for all of us. And I – at 79 – am not even tired today. I can’t say as much for the younger people who did the work.
April 21, 1969
Another glorious day. I wrote letters I had to bake bread and Ruth Crawford came and helped me watched me make it. She wants to learn the easy way I use. I enjoy being with her.
April 22, 1969
With Winnie Branen I walked all over the farm where I grew up. Had not done it for 60 yrs. Have been wanting to do it a long time. Glorious day. Somehow it was a joyful instead of a sad experience. I have not even set foot on that farm for 45 yrs. A good way to celebrate 89ers day. We even found the dent in the bank where the homesteader made his dugout. Glorious weather.
April 23, 1969
It rained last night and during the day – almost ½ inch. In the evening I went briefly to a meeting of the Prairie City committees planning for next year. I wanted to thank them, then left. I learned afterwards they worked till midnight writing letters, planning, finishing business.
April 24, 1969
Coldish day. I found three little walnut trees the squirrels planted in my back yard and I planted them where I had the Chinese elms removed along the street. Also I found a perfect snake skin recently shed. Gave it to Pat Beeby for her kindergarten.
April 25, 1969
Drove to Stillwater and Idress Cash took me to see Town and Gown play Frank Gilroy’s “The Subject was Roses.” Very good. Am staying with Idress. Looked like raining but didn&rsquot.
April 26, 1969
Drove home this morning. Got caught in a hard shower. Worked in library in P.M. Another hard shower this evening. Tornado warning over most of state. Dipped near Chickasha and tore up houses & barns.
April 27, 1969
Busy but pleasant day. Started daylight saving time. Had small S. S. class in consequence. Rev. Bob and some of the men at conference so Bill Schaefer “preached,” one of the best “sermons I ever heard. Then I had dinner at Lions Den, guest of Possum Holler rural school (joined with Marshall school 1911). Then that fine “Skip” Cypert from Weatherford came to see me. I like him so much. He wants to write an article – took pics.
April 28, 1969
[No entry.
April 29, 1969
Our club had a guest day luncheon Fine group of guests. The public relations man from the Guthrie job corps came up and they told us about the work. I don’t like that man but have much interest in the girls. Lovely weather.
April 30, 1969
Shocking news. Glenn Dishman fell dead at his home. Poor Dephana! I think he did not know anything was wrong with his heart.
May 1, 1969
Heard from the director of OU Press about my MS. Will send contract soon. Says all but title is “superb.” I called to tell the O’Neils the news. Pat said call it “Sex on the Reservations.” Millions would buy it and if they were disappointed when they tried to read it I’d have the royalty.
May 2, 1969
I went to Glenn Dishman’s funeral. Such a shock to his family to have him die so suddenly. He did not die at home as I heard at first. They found him in his car. His work required him driving around to check wells or something.
May 3, 1969
It rained this afternoon – some quick nice showers. My yellow rose is glorious – also my iris, and my red clematis is starting.
May 4, 1969
It apparently rained a lot last night – probably 2 in. including yesterday. I taught my S. S. class and heard a fine sermon. Communion service.
May 5, 1969
I went to Stillwater to attend the library staff luncheon – but they didn’t have it and failed to notify me. I called on Ruth Hammond. She gave me a lovely dress we thought I could make over. Too small for her, too big for me. I had my picture taken. I hope it turns out well.
May 6, 1969
I worked on my Egypt pics. I have my neglected slides all in order now. Well nearly all. About half a dozen of Egypt left to finish tomorrow. Hard rain this evening.
May 7, 1969
Altogether it rained nearly 2 in last evening and during the night. I attended a luncheon and service for May Fellowship. It was at our church this year. Our women, Catholics, Methodists and Disciples. Then went to a reception at the high school by the Home Ec. girls who had adopted us older women as “grandmothers”.
May 8, 1969
Threatened rain most of the day, Then cleared off and the sun shone. There is some water in my cellar. Mr. Mewherter died late May 6. We learned of it yesterday morning. He was 89. Had been in an Enid hospital about a week. Worked in the Library this P.M.
May 9, 1969
My contract for publication of my Indian history came from the Uni. of Okla. Press today. My beautiful peonies started to bloom. My old fashioned yellow rose is and my glorious. Also my Iris. This is a good spring for flowers. Got a permanent.
May 10, 1969
Attended the funeral of Mr. Mewherter at the Methodist Church. Lovely weather. Rev. Bob preached the sermon. Very fine.
May 11, 1969
Had affine S. S. class and heard, as always, a fine sermon. Lovely day, but a shower came up this evening.
May 12, 1969
Beautiful day. Beautiful wheat. Beautiful peonies, roses, iris, red clematis in my garden and yard. Beautiful trees everywhere. I worked most of the day reading Martin Luther King’s Why We Can’t Wait for a review we I am to give at Club tomorrow.
May 13, 1969
Edmon Low called from Stillwater. So good to hear his voice. He & Mrs. Low are on way to Texas. Invited me to dinner tomorrow at Holiday Inn with others of library staff. I am looking forward to seeing them. I attended club & gave my review. Very tired tonight.
May 14, 1969
Drove to Stillwater, am staying at Holiday Inn. Had a wonderful time at the dinner. My old friends, most of all the Lows. Wore my pineapple fabric blouse with all the fixings – dangling earbobs & all of mother of pearl and soft silver.
May 15, 1969
Uncomfortable at the motel and didn’t sleep much. Drove back this morning. Very tired all day. Raining hard this evening.
May 16, 1969
It rained four inches last night. It has rained or threatened nearly every day but this is the first flood. I went to bed soon after it started and slept through most of it. I have been supplying biographical information and other things my publisher wants.
May 17, 1969
Dismal rainy day. A shower this morning and drizzles off and on the rest of the time. The University Press is going all out on my book. Wants pics and maps. Good news for me but some work. I had not intended to use any thinking it would make the book too expensive.
May 18, 1969
Our annual church picnic, only this year all four were going together, our people, Methodists, Disciples, & Catholics. But it was too cloudy & wet so we had it in the school auditorium. Very nice but outdoors would have been better. The sun came out in early P.M. and everything was glorious.
May 19, 1969
It didn’t rain. Some friends from Stillwater are coming over to see the wheat tomorrow if the weather is all right.
May 20, 1969
The Stillwater friends came, six of them. They brought some food and I prepared some and we used paper plates & had a picnic dinner. Then we drove around and saw the wheat. Idress Cash, Ruth Hammond & her daughter Mrs. Ambruster & daughter, Mrs. Smith and Ruth Gerber.
May 21, 1969
I was tired today but worked on some revision – the last reading – of my manuscript. In the evening my beloved Bess Kurwin called from Dallas. She is coming to see me. I have not seen her for 30 years. A warm windy day.
May 22, 1969
I did a few things getting ready for Bess’s visit. Showed pics of Africa to a good sized group of kids at the library. The beginning of their summer reading program. It is really cold this evening. Did a few things getting ready for Bess. Used my furnace.
May 23, 1969
Just as I was about to start getting ready to drive to Enid and meet Bess she called from Guthrie saying she would come tomorrow on the bus. She is not impressed by the Frontier Airlines. Weather still cold.
May 24, 1969
Drove to Guthrie and met Bess on the 4:05 bus. So nice to see her. Lovely weather.
May 25, 1969
Taught my S. S. class & heard a fine sermon. Bess (with me driving) took me to the Nickerson place on I 35 for dinner. In the p. m. I took her driving over the country to show her the wheat.
May 26, 1969
I had hectic day. Took Bess to 11:15 bus at Guthrie. Then Kenneth Orrell & Joe Misar came and installed a new air conditioner to supplement the one in my study. Benedict Jozhe and Moses Loco came to ask my opinion re a new health organization for Indians. I didn’t know. First hot day of summer I used my new air conditioner. I baked bread for picnic.
May 27, 1969
Made two loaves of bread into sandwiches for picnic. Then we started at 10:00 – our club. Drove to park at Kingfisher, then held business meeting & ate picnic lunch. Then visited mansion of Territorial Governor Seay and an art exhibit in a Main St. store. Hot day. Wheat changed color perfectly.
May 28, 1969
Hot day. I decorated graves (12 of them) in the cemetery. The wheat is quickly turning yellow. I barely got home & cleaned up when Catherine Fulkerson Jabosky and Harold Brown called. Lovely visit. Had seen Catherine only once briefly since she graduated from H.S. in 1915. Hot day. Enjoyed air conditioner. Turned off furnace pilot light.
May 29, 1969
Hot day. Ralph Cooper came to see me. I persuaded him to stay for dinner. In the evening I attended high school alumni reunion. Very nice. Threatened rain but didn’t.
May 30, 1969
Hot day. I didn’t go to the cemetery. Mrs. Stuerke spent the day with me. Her son-in-law brought her up from O.C., then went on to Cherokee, and picked her up on his return. She took me to dinner at the cafe, and I saw many old friends there.
May 31, 1969
Did a little this forenoon. I am having too much pleasant company to get any work done. In the p.m. I kept the library. Then I picked some of my Madonna lilies a filled the vases at the church.
June 1, 1969
We had a storm about midnight – rain, hail, and a terrific wind. Lawns and streets are covered with tree branches. Pickups working all afternoon carrying them off. Branches of my Chinese elm were strewn down the street half a block. I had a good S. S. class & heard a fine sermon, Communion.
June 2, 1969
Cold day. I could have used my furnace if I had not turned it off. I drove to Enid to make new plans for my Alaska trip. Had to eliminate the special tour to Barrow because of full hotel rooms at Fairbanks. Will just go with the party.
June 3, 1969
Another really cold day. But I don’t want to take the trouble to light my furnace. A man from Guthrie got my divan to upholster it. It has been ragged for a year but I was too busy to do anything.
June 4, 1969
Another cold morning but the sun shone in the P. M. and it was lovely and cool. The country is beautiful with golden wheat. Saturday’s storm didn’t hurt it much. I am enjoying my lilies. It rained last night but quietly.
June 5, 1969
Lots of difference between R. F. K. and the cold calculating Nixon. I have been patient with Nixon but my patience is wearing thin after 5 months and not one statesman-like deed. I finished a final revision of my MS, typed a few new pages, changed a word here and there.
June 6, 1969
Waited for my ms to come so I could incorporate changes. Loafed and didn’t accomplish much. Am making late entry but think this was the time. No. That was June 4.
June 7, 1969
My ms came and I worked very hard on it. (I had a number of changes working on the carbon. When the MS came from the Uni. Press I transferred the changes to it.) Got it wrapped ready to mail but P.O. closed in P.M. I worked in the library in P.M. They are now in barley harvest. My Madonna lilies have about quit – only a few left – but my regal lilies are glorious.
June 8, 1969
Very small S.S. class because of combines in field – also small church congregation but fine sermon. In the afternoon I went to the cemetery and took pics of the ripe fields as seen from that hill. It is turning really cold this evening.
June 9, 1969
Teresa came and waxed floor, etc. Got living room finished. Really cold day. Got word that my beloved Ethleen Murrell Busch died suddenly June 5.I have loved her since she came into my class as a student in the late 1920’s.
June 10, 1969
Teresa disappointed me – got some young plan of her own afoot so I largely wasted the day. She did wax floor of dining room. She is fine but sometimes shows her young irresponsibility. After all, she is only 14, but so strong and tall and capable The man brought my newly upholstered divan. It was very nice.
June 11, 1969
I worked on some revision of my Prairie City. Added a new preface and corrected some errors. It will be published in a new printing by Gordian Press.
June 12, 1969
Finished work on Prairie City. Helped Winnie in the library in the afternoon. It rained ½ in. last night with much lightning. (I think this is date. Am making late entry.) I had a migraine attack while I was at the library.
June 13, 1969
Caroline Kline was coming to see the harvest tomorrow, but it started raining this evening, so I told her not to come. No harvest.
June 14, 1969
It rained two inches last night. I worked in the library in the afternoon. It is really cold. I would use furnace, only I turned it off for the summer. Too bad they can’t get into the wheat harvest. I showed Africa pics to Rodney Huffer and his father this evening.
June 15, 1969
Pretty good crowd at S.S. Preacher gone, so we attended Methodist Church. New preacher named Maddox. In the P.M. Ray Hendricks called. In the evening went to a reception at the Bob Schafers honoring Arlin Enmeier, who will marry a Calif. girl Sat. It was so cold I wore a woolen suit to church. In the Meth. church they had the gas stove lighted and that helped.
June 16, 1969
Sunny day. It got hot in the sun. I washed & got warm hanging out clothes in the P.M. I had a migraine attack. I am spending all the time I can planning illustrations for my Indian history.
June 17, 1969
It rained last night and during the forenoon. (Sun came out in the P.M.) This is getting serious. Most of the barley was cut before the first rain. Then just as they were ready for the wheat harvest it began raining. Very little wheat is cut.
June 18, 1969
Signed contract with Gordian Press for new printing of Prairie City. The sun shone all day. Perhaps it will quit raining. I worked on my illustrations in the morning. In the late P.M. drove to Guthrie to visit the Le Hews and Grace Goodman. Lena Hays there also for a brief time.
June 19, 1969
I worked Stayed overnight with the Le Hews and Grace. Very fine visit. Drove back early in morning. Worked in library in afternoon. Some wheat is being combined.
June 20, 1969
The air conditioner in my study quit. I am so thankful I have the other one Showers went around last night but only sprinkled here. I am sure harvest is going strong. I worked on illustrations. Learned that Mrs. Ed Hearn died, she is almost the last of the ‘89ers. Came here as a young girl with her parents & married the young homesteader Ed Hearn.
June 21, 1969
Did a little more work on Prairie City. Worked all P.M. in the library. Got ready for company tomorrow. Got the check from my farm. My wheat turned out well.
June 22, 1969
I taught my S.S. class (small) heard a fine sermon (small congregation); then Caroline Kline and a fine young woman, Sister Mary Ann, came up from Norman and I took them out to the field where Frances Peach was running the combine. Had a fine visit with them. Just before they left in the evening my plumbing clogged.
June 23, 1969
Teresa came and we (mainly Teresa) cleaned my study. In the eveni afternoon Kenneth Orrell started to clear my drain but it started to rain. Heavy rain with considerable hail. Very bad for the wheat.
June 24, 1969
Teresa finished cleaning the house – washed windows, waxed floors, etc. Kenneth got my drain open. It proved to be quite a problem with much digging. Cool morning , but sultry afternoon.
June 25, 1969
I worked on my illustrations. High wind all day, clouds, and tornado alert, but no storm near here. Later – it was really bad in the northern part of the state. I saw the cloud but it was not near us. Wrote on wrong page.
June 26, 1969
I worked on maps. In the afternoon I worked at the library. They are starting a little combining. The high wind helped to dry the fields.
June 27, 1969
Worked on illustrations. The combining is really going once more. A very bad storm north of us, this evening but not here.
June 28, 1969
Learned that Ramona’s father died. I went to see her but she and Pat were gone. Kenneth Orrell and another man removed my dead air conditioner and I took it to Perry, but the man said it was past repair. I had used it about 14 years. The weather is hot these days.
June 29, 1969
More people at church today. Some have about finished their harvest. I taught my S.S. class. A man from Phillips preached. There is still much wheat unharvested and many are in the fields today.
June 30, 1969
I spent the day in Stillwater working at the college library. Saw dear Cherrie Garrett. Her memory has failed greatly since I saw her last. Hot day. It is very dry but much wheat is still unharvested. So dry weather is O. K.
July 1, 1969
Very hot day. I failed to note yesterday that Kenneth Orrell called his Enid supply firm and they told him they had no air conditioner on hand but would have some Thursday. Teresa and I spent the day house cleaning.
July 2, 1969
Teresa finished the house cleaning. Furniture moved, floor waxed, windows and curtains washed – the works.
July 3, 1969
Kenneth Orrell learned his supply firm was unable to get any air conditioner. None will be made till next spring. I called Bob Adams at Crescent and he had none either.
July 4, 1969
Pat O’Neil got his harvesting done Monday. Neither he nor Ramona worked today. In the evening they took me to a lovely place in O.C. for dinner to celebrate the Fourth. The church bells rang at 1:00 P. M. (noon) today. I worked on maps.
July 5, 1969
I called around for air conditioners. None in Perry. Mary Graves found one place in Stillwater with three. I called Bob Adams again and he said he thought he could get one Mon. (Place closed today.) So I will wait on Bob. Then try Stillwater if Bob Fails fails. Hot dry weather.
July 6, 1969
Fine S.S. class this morning. Like old times. Roy Beeby & some others still have wheat uncut but most of the harvest is over. Fine crowd at church. Communion service. Bad looking cloud in the north this P.M. Later we got a lovely shower. We needed it badly.
July 7, 1969
Two pieces of good news. Bob Adams found an air conditioner. No luck in O.C. but found one in El Reno. The tour I am taking to Alaska has added Barrow. So I can go to Barrow after all.
July 8, 1969
Bob Adams’ two sons installed my air conditioner. Now I have a big one for the house and a little one for my study. I shall not need to use the big one all the time.
July 9, 1969
I finished my maps. Am making some changes in my MS after reading Josephy’s Nez Perce book. I got it at the library last time I was in Stillwater.
July 10, 1969
Terribly hot dry weather. I worked at the library in the afternoon.
July 11, 1969
More hot weather. My so-called flower garden is like a rock. I should have watered but neglected it. I worked on reading Josephy’s book. Finished it. Will take it to the library Monday.
July 12, 1969
I worked hard getting ready for company tomorrow. Also I drenched the flower garden. Let the water run most of the forenoon. Kept running out and moving the hose. Changed the MS Nez Perce chapter and mailed it.
July 13, 1969
Busy Day. Taught my S.S. class (nice crowd) then church (fine sermon) & then Caroline & Sister Marianne came. I showed them pics slides of Mexico. Vernon & Roberta Bostick called. Then I gave them a cold supper and we went to the church where Caroline showed St. Michael’s slides. Social hour afterwards. Our church It was at our church.
July 14, 1969
I drove to Stillwater for the library staff luncheon and looked up some things in the library. We have had no relief from the heat and drought. Every day worse than the preceding one.
July 15, 1969
I did a good day’s work on my illustrations. Sent off my maps. I am so grateful for my air conditioning.
July 16, 1969
Somehow I was so tired and weak I accomplished little today except that in the forenoon Sandy Howard and I unpacked, checked, and shelved a shipment of books to our library from the state library.
July 17, 1969
Worked on illustrations and some changes in Chapt. 13. In the P.M. kept the library. In the evening attended a meeting of the library board. Terribly hot day.
July 18, 1969
So tired I am going to bed at seven o’clock. I am so thankful for my air conditioners. I leave the small one on till about midnight, then turn it off and open the house.
July 19, 1969
The air conditioner in my study quit this afternoon. I called Bob Adams and he told me he would come early tomorrow to see it. I didn’t know about its failure till evening – was using the other one.
July 20, 1969
Bob Adams came & said the fluid was probably gone. He was very apologetic. Will send his boys to get it as soon as possible. It rained a few drops last night and has been cooler and cloudy today. I taught my S.S. class (small one) & heard a good sermon. Watched the moon landing this P.M. Tense experience very moving when it succeeded. Time 3:17 P. M. Then watched the moon walk. Enormously moved. Then stayed up till 1:00 A.M. to see if the men were in contact & O.K.
July 21, 1969
I was pretty tired today but I couldn’t go to sleep because I had to help the astronauts. I tensed all my muscles to help them in the lift-off. Truly, I was worried it would have been so terrible if anything had gone wrong. The whole thing has been moving beyond words.
July 22, 1969
I let the astronauts take care of themselves while I slept last night and worked on my MS today. Through all the joy of this achievement I am distressed about Edward Kennedy. I think we have lost our last Kennedy.
July 23, 1969
I am adding new things to my Alaska chapter. Back to Kennedy – I have read only his own brief statement but unless he gives more explanation it sounds like the reaction of a person who lost all his control. Just running away and hiding out. He is the youngest – perhaps never grew up.
July 24, 1969
I worked at the library in the afternoon. Showed pictures.
July 25, 1969
Don Huffer took me to Enid to have my eyes tested. The doctor found the beginning of glaucoma. Bad news. He will have to watch it. Perhaps can check it. In the evening I went with the O’Nealls to dinner and two W.C. Fields shows in O.C. Great fun. It rained a little last night and during the day.
July 26, 1969
Found my air conditioner in place and ready to go this morning. The boys must have installed it while I was gone yesterday. Worked on Alaska chapter.
July 27, 1969
Cool day. Taught my S.S. class and heard a fine sermon. Mrs. Fox was buried this P.M. I didn’t know, so much to my regret I didn’t attend the funeral. I loved her and Billy very much. She was 101, I think the very last of the 89ers. She guarded the wagons on the line while Billy and his cowboy friends went in rode in & staked their claims.
July 28, 1969
Drove to Enid to see Dr. Shields. He found my eyes better. Wants to see me next week. Picked up my plane ticket.
July 29, 1969
Drove to Stillwater to look up some things in the library. These days are not as hot as they were but just as dry.
July 30, 1969
Worked on changes in my ms. on account of things that have happened since I finished it in March.
July 31, 1969
I showed slides of Mexico (also some I took of the live TV pics. of the men on the moon) to the children at the library. I am still grieved about Edward Kennedy. Not presidential material.
August 1, 1969
Attended the wedding of Kenneth Ficken and Mary Ools at our church. Lovely wedding. Got a permanent.
August 2, 1969
Lillian Proctor died in an Enid hospital at 3:00 this morning. The faithful Edith Holloway and Roy Lundy were with her. She has no near relatives – a nephew in Michigan. It rained ½ in. this morning. Not enough but some.
August 3, 1969
Showed some slides of Rome to my S.S. class but the period was cut to about 15 min, so I didn’t get far. Attended church. Fine sermon. Communion service.
August 4, 1969
It rained a little last night and this morning. Hard rain at Crescent. I attended Lillian’s funeral this P.M. at the Methodist Church. She died of lung cancer. A non-smoker but plenty of smoke in St. Louis where she lived.
August 5, 1969
Cold enough this morning to make me wish for a fire. I drove to Enid (wore my coat) and saw Dr. Shields. My eyes have not improved as much as he had hoped. It threatened to rain all forenoon – then cleared off. I am working on my illustrations.
August 6, 1969
We have had cool mornings since the rain. Hot during the day. Still dry. The rain didn’t soak the ground.
August 7, 1969
Worked in the library in the afternoon. Worked on odds and ends.
August 8, 1969
Packed, got my hair washed and set, soaked my flower garden. My surprise lilies are getting ready to bloom tomorrow. The very day I leave! I told Teresa to pick them.
August 9, 1969
The lilies were bloomed gloriously this morning. Gerry took me to O.C. to the plane. I had a magnificent view of the mts. rivers & canyons from Denver on. I was able to identify many geographical features. Came to Seattle. Staying in met party at hotel. Rooming with a Miss Potts from Kalamazoo. She is nice.
August 10, 1969
Took drive in bus over s. w. Seattle. Attended a Presby church but got there late. Very tiresome wait at airport. Uninteresting trip to Anchorage because two women (one bulky and immovable who slept) shut me off from window. Clear beautiful weather here at Anchorage. Very tired – didn’t sleep much last night.
August 11, 1969
Beautiful bright clear day. We took bus tour with live guide. Went over Anchorage, & damage of earthquake was pointed out. Saw Matanuska Valley, & Eklutna Indian Village. Returned in late afternoon, not tired. Will start early to Kotzebue tomorrow.
August 12, 1969
Got up 4:45, then plane 2 hrs. late. So, walked over Anchorage & took pic of a reindeer. Then finally left 5 hrs. late. Crossed Arctic Circle, too overcast to see Siberia at Bering St. Shortened stop at Kotzebue. Came to Nome. Very bad service at expensive North Star. King Island Eskimos danced but my roommate and I went to bed. Plain but comfortable hotel, Nugget Inn.
August 13, 1969
Interesting tour to gold field. Saw dog team, rode on Bering Sea in umiak, saw interesting demonstration of kyak [sic]. Then plane late, late, late. Arlon & Florine Enmeier called at hotel just as I arrived. Love visit with them. Got to bed at 12:00
August 14, 1969
Beautiful bright crisp day. Took bus tour to Portage Glacier. Rode ski lift up Alyeska Mt. Packing up to leave Anchorage tomorrow. This tour is fine for scenery. Lacks depth but I knew that when I signed up.
August 15, 1969
Very tiresome rail trip thru monotonous scrub timber with some mts. at the end. Staying at Mt. McKinley Park Lodge. Going to bed early to start on park tour tomorrow. Set alarm to get up at 2:45.
August 16, 1969
Got up at 2:45, packed, ate breakfast, & started tour at 4:00. Rare luck, clear day (about 20% chance to get one) got magnificent view of Mt. McK., saw caribou, moose, grizzly bears, marmots, ptarmigan. Pretty tired. Then train was late so we got to Fairbanks very late exhausted.
August 17, 1969
Got up early & took plane for Barrow. Very cold (only 30°but seemed much colder because of ice on Arctic) Charmed with Eskimos but it was a hard day. Then our plane was late so we got to our Fairbanks hotel at 2:00 A. M. An exhausted party.
August 18, 1969
My roommate and I slept all morning. Missed tour of Fairbanks. Then took fine tour of Tanana River on a stern wheeler. Bright sunny day. Got to hotel early for a restful evening. Packed to start tomorrow.
August 19, 1969
Traveled by bus on the Alaska Highway from Fairbanks to Whitehorse. Crossed border about 20 mi. before we a lodge about 20 mi. beyond the Alaska-Yukon border. Pleasant trip. Saw a moose cross the road not far out of Fairbanks.
August 20, 1969
Continued our bus travel to Whitehorse in Yukon. Saw impressive peaks beyond peaks of St. Elias Mts. Stopped at Indian Cemetery near Champagne and at abandoned outfitting camp for gold seekers. Raining in Whitehorse.
August 21, 1969
Took narrow gauge railway and crossed mighty mts. to Skagway. Rain and fog obscured view of the most magnificent scenery in my travels. Saw Chilcat [sic] dancers at Klukwan. Staying at Klondike Hotel, Skagway.
August 22, 1969
Toured Skagway, a ghost of its lurid past. In the evening took steamer Glacier Queen for inner passage voyage. Badly disappointed at crowded stateroom. I am going to sleep on upper bunk. Pretty shabby & crowded after short run came to Haines. Saw Chilkat dancers.
August 23, 1969
Bright day Steamer docked at Juneau and we had a bus trip to the Mendenhall Glacier. Glorious. The sun shone and we had a magnificent view.
August 24, 1969
Boat docked at Juneau Ketchikan. We had an interesting tour of the town and of the Indian village with the totem poles. No chance for morning church service but in the P.M. a waiter who is an Assembly of God preacher conducted the service. Awful. Rainy day.
August 25, 1969
Cruised all day. Cloudy. Not much to see. I think it was Aug. 24 whales were in sight but I was in cabin asleep recovering from a bad night, so missed them. I did get a quick glimpse of one later in the P.M. I am sure it was Aug. 24.
August 26, 1969
Docked at Vancouver & took tour of city. Greatly impressed by immense cedars in park – enough lumber in one for 5 room house. Took ferry to Victoria on Vancouver Island. Everything very British in Victoria. Staying at Empress Hotel.
August 27, 1969
Tour of Butchart Gardens. Beyond description. Would have taken plane from Sidney but it didn’t run, so came back on ferry & took bus for Seattle. Interesting drive but all but one of party missed plane connections out of Seattle. I am staying at Swept Wing Inn, best place I have found on trip.
August 28, 1969
Took 7:00 A.M. plane to O.C. which I reached shortly after noon. Got best sight I have had of mts. I flew over. Ramona met me and took me home. Not very tired. Lizzie Dietrich died suddenly. My fme
August 29, 1969
I did some unpacking and went through mail, attended to some business. Find I am rather tired after all. They got 1 ½ in rain and weather is pleasant.
August 30, 1969
Finished unpacking. Had a pleasant visit from Stanley Moore, who is back from Viet Nam and ready to enter college. Later in the store I met his lovely sister. Fair this week end but I didn’t attend.
August 31, 1969
Didn’t teach my S.S. class & nobody had been prepared to do it, so they asked me to tell them about my Alaska trip and I did. Rev. Bob away, so the Methodist campus minister from Stillwater preached. In the P.M. Pat & Ramona took me to O.C. to enjoy some old Laurel & Hardy comedies & to dinner. Very nice.
September 1, 1969
Worked at organizing my mail piled up for 3 weeks. Labor Day.
September 2, 1969
I went to Enid to have my eyes checked. Right one O. K. – pressure down to 19; left no improvement, pressure 25, so dr. said put drops in three times a day & come back in 2 weeks. It rained off and on all day – hard as I was passing Pioneer School. In Mary Stith called from O.U. Press, ready to edit my MS. I will make some changes first.
September 3, 1969
Worked writing on some developments that have occurred since I finished my MS in March. I told Mary to send the MS back so I can incorporate these changes.
September 4, 1969
My MS came this morning. I worked hard all day on adding new material, substituting new pages for the original ones.
September 5, 1969
Worked hard all day on my MS. Got it finished and boxed for mailing. Very tired.
September 6, 1969
Mailed my MS.
September 7, 1969
Taught my S.S. class and attended church. Brief meeting afterward, when pastor’s resignation was announced. I am unhappy about for he had a commitment to stay 2 years. He is a very fine person, except unstable.
September 8, 1969
I baked bread for club luncheon tomorrow. My Alaska slides came. I spent much of the day looking at them. They turned out fairly well.
September 9, 1969
Attended club luncheon. Enjoyed it but our attendance was small. Did not have a quorum. Usually our luncheon is an important social event. This time we fizzled.
September 10, 1969
Worked on illustrations for my book. Learned Oliver Seefeldt had a very serious operation.
September 11, 1969
Worked on illustrations. I called on poor Ida O’Neill at the Crescent rest home.
September 12, 1969
Worked on illustrations.
September 13, 1969
Really ill today. I seem to have let myself get too cold. Today I lighted my furnace. I am going to thaw out. Shower for Marilyn Vogel who was married recently, but I felt too ill to attend.
September 14, 1969
Taught my S. S. class and attended church. In the afternoon I worked at organizing my Alaska slides. The weather is terribly dry – big cracks in the ground.
September 15, 1969
[No entry.
September 16, 1969
Fine rain last night 2 1/3 in. We are all very happy about it. Benedict Johze and Moses Loco, two fine Apaches, came to help me with some of their knowledge of individual Apache prisoners.
September 17, 1969
Not feeling well today. Drove to Enid and had Dr. Shields check my eyes. Right 20 (not bad), left still 25 (no improvement). He will test the side vision Oct. 29 to say if the left has suffered any damage. Meanwhile drops three times a day.
September 18, 1969
Felt fine and worked on illustrations. It requires letter writing. etc. Also much planning. Also worked on slides from Alaska trip.
September 19, 1969
Spent some time checking and numbering my slides from the Alaska trip.
September 20, 1969
Worked on slides. Finished them. Kept the library in the P.M.
September 21, 1969
Taught my S.S. class. Fine class. Heard a fine sermon. Don & Evadean Huffer came to my house after church to hear Svetlana Alli[luyeva] (Stalin’s daughter) on T.V. Then they took me to dinner at the cafe. In the P.M. Benedict Johze stopped by on his way to Chilocco. Learned Grover Dietrich died yesterday evening.
September 22, 1969
Worked on the Club program on Alaska which I am to give tomorrow.
September 23, 1969
Attended club at Madonnas – gave Alaska program – showed slides of natives and told about their land program. The president, Jane Vaverka, had resigned and so they elected me. Everyone else already had an office and I had no such protection. It rained an inch last night.
September 24, 1969
Still working on my illustrations. Lovely weather.
September 25, 1969
Worked on illustrations in the forenoon; helped Winnie in the library in the afternoon. Ramona usually does it but she and Pat are taking a trip to Carlsbad. Lovely weather.
September 26, 1969
More work on illustrations. It requires much correspondence – especially from the Smithsonian, which has become a sprawling bureaucracy unable to manage its business.
September 27, 1969
I even had time to do some sewing this P.M. Oiled my machine which had not been touched for years. Edith Holloway spent the evening with me. Nelle Thomas came to see me. We had a lovely visit. The first time I ever saw her was in the fall of 1899 when my beloved friend Alice brought her little blond three-year-old sister to visit the school – and it rained and all three of us cried over the damage to her new shoes.
September 28, 1969
Taught my S. S. class and attended church. Dedication service for some church improvement as a memorial to good David and Emma Friend – wood paneling and stained glass windows. Alma Friend was there, as were Alwina, Jonathon, and Bernice and their families.
September 29, 1969
Added a little to my illustrations. Then wrote letters. We are having lovely mornings but it gets hot in late P.M. & evening. I use my small air conditioner evenings.
September 30, 1969
Learned that lovely 18-year-old Sharon Davis Streck died died from car accident yesterday. Her young husband is so fine and they were married only last summer. Such a blow to him. She graduated from high school last spring. I did not know her well but she was my adopted granddaughter.
October 1, 1969
Drove to Stillwater and showed some slides of missions to Indians of the Southwest at an evening meeting of the Catholic Altar society. Met the president, Mrs. File, and Mary Graves’ sister Mrs. Gorman. Am staying with Mary. Showed them Zuni and its Reformed & Catholic missions, St. Michaels. Also the school at Rough Rock & the story of Taos’ Blue Lake.
October 2, 1969
Bought some shoes and worked at the college library. Saw Mrs. Bilyou about making over an old suit of mine and a dress given me by Ruth Hammond. (Too small for her.)
October 3, 1969
Tired and didn’t get much done. Funeral of Sharon but I did not attend. I knew everybody would be there, so my presence not needed
October 4, 1969
Worked on material I got from the library Thursday.
October 5, 1969
Taught my S.S. class and attended church. World Communion Sunday. Gerry Schaefer told me Bob and she have been chosen Logan Co. Farm Family of the Year. Asked me to write letter for state choice.
October 6, 1969
Worked on the letter for Bob and Gerry and their boy Ronnie. They don’t come any better than those three. I hope they will be chosen Okla. Farm Family. They must submit five letters of recommendation to back up their story.
October 7, 1969
Copied the letter and gave it to Gerry. I worked hard on it because I wanted to do them justice.
October 8, 1969
[No entry.
October 9, 1969
We have been having warm, even hot, weather all fall. I use my small air conditioner in my study in the afternoon.
October 10, 1969
It is gettin I even found myself with an afternoon’s spare time. I oiled my long forgotten sewing machine and hemmed a dozen napkins. For everyday. My supply was wearing out.
October 11, 1969
It is getting cooler and cloudy. Hellen Cline, who is doing editorial work on my book, called from Chicago to ask a few questions. I liked her voice so well No wonder. She grew up in Hennessey.
October 12, 1969
Taught my S.S. class and heard a fine sermon. Went home for dinner with Virginia Kidd. Enjoyed it. It rained last night and during the day and is cool.
October 13, 1969
Worked a little on putting some new happenings in the last two chapters of my ms. and sent the changes off to Helen. It was really cold this morning, but not freezing. Burton & Dorine called. I think it was Oct. 13.
October 14, 1969
Frost last night, early for frost in this latitude. Hulda Weber is very ill in the hospital in Enid. I am unhappy about her – also her two good sisters, Clara and Olga, and her devoted husband Richard. I found myself with some spare time today and did some needed sewing – made 8 pillow slips & mended a petticoat slip.
October 15, 1969
I showed pics of Kotzebue, Barrow, Nome, & Mt. McKinley Park to Bonnie Roberts’ & Eula Ruth Olmstead’s rooms. Such bright kids and such good teachers.
October 16, 1969
I went to Stillwater for my annual medical check-up. A perfect human being! While I was there I bought two house dresses. Tried to buy a dressed-up dress but no luck.
October 17, 1969
Didn’t work much today. I did spend some time arranging my Alaska slides.
October 18, 1969
I wasted much of the day reading a stupid book. I am a reading addict and there is no Readers Anonymous.
October 19, 1969
Taught my S.S. class and heard a fine sermon. In the P.M. an earnest young couple named Burke came from the University at Norman. He wanted to take some tape recording from me to use on a classroom radio program.
October 20, 1969
Another day I worked on my Alaska pics. Attended Marie Mitchell’s funeral in the P.M. at Xn Church. Poor girl! She was sick a long time.
October 21, 1969
I wasted much of this day again reading that stupid book. Worked some on Alaska pics.
October 22, 1969
Five fr bright sixth graders came to “interview” me on Indians. They help Mrs. Zondler with her second grade, and were learning what to give them. They have a spare period because they do not take band, and this 2nd grade experience is good for them and the children, too.
October 23, 1969
I finished all except a few easy details on my Alaska pictures.
October 24, 1969
I went to Perry to have Dale Wilson’s garage check my car which was making too much noise. They replaced 2 gaskets on the manifold & 2 hoses about to give out. When I drove home it sounded like a humming bird’s wings. I bought 2 house dresses while I waited. Paid $7.00 each. Terrible!
October 25, 1969
Learned that Richard and Hulda Weber were taken to the Methodist rest home at Enid yesterday. I am very unhappy that that fine couple’s Marshall days are over. But there was nothing else to do.
October 26, 1969
Full day at church. Six young people confirmed. Communion service. Sunday dinner in basement. Then Mission Festival sermon by young Jim Chandler who has improved much since the last time I heard him. Then coffee and cake in the basement and a gift shower for Ruth Crawford. The Crawfords are leaving tomorrow. Oh yes, I taught my S.S. class.
October 27, 1969
Very busy day for me. I got report from Helen Cline who is doing ed. work on my book and I worked on some suggestions she made. Then I selected slides for club program tomorrow, and prepared for business meeting.
October 28, 1969
8 club members, Mabel Bryson, inactive, and 5 guests went to have club meeting with Mrs. Stuerke in O.C. We left at 10, ate luncheon in cafeteria (she treated us to dessert). Then I conducted business meeting and showed Alaska pics. I must have got tired for I had a migraine attack when it was over. Those attacks are never very bad. Cold day. I rode in Ramona’s car with Madonna and Maxine. We had a pleasant trip and Mrs. Stuerke was glad to see Marshall friends.
October 29, 1969
Ramona took me to an appointment with Dr. Shields, who wanted to test my eyes to see if any of the peripheral vision was destroyed. I did not know whether the test would bother me with driving back (perhaps dilate pupils) and so Ramona took me. I could have driven back O.K. He just had me look at things. Both eyes proved entirely normal. Also the pressure had improved: right 21, left 22. The left is the one that has not gone down before. It rained all day – hard at times. I am sorry, for Pat has much wheat acreage unsown. He could have finished this week.
October 30, 1969
I am crippled today for I left my typewriter at Enid yesterday to be cleaned and a bad key corrected. I showed Alaska pics to the school children.
October 31, 1969
Still crippled. I called Enid Typewriter Company and they promised to get the machine started today. I had a pleasant visit with Pat and Ramona discussing plans for a trip they plan to Ireland next spring.
November 1, 1969
The typewriter did come on Mistletoe Express. I spent the day on odds and ends I had neglected. As soon as I get a full day I want to use the typewriter in behalf of the Alaska natives.
November 2, 1969
Taught my S.S. class and heard a sermon by a nice boy who is a student at O.S.U. In the evening Burton and Dorine called and I had a wonderful telephone visit with them. Half an hour! I tremble at the toll it cost them. Loaned Edith my steel trap to catch a skunk.
November 3, 1969
I went to Stillwater to the library staff luncheon. I distributed some material on the Alaska natives’ land problem and an encouraging number agreed to write to members of Congress. I bought a dress. Cost $20.55. I needed it badly. Heard Pres. Nixon speak on Viet Nam.
November 4, 1969
I wrote to members of Congress in behalf of Alaska natives. But Elnora Weber, who has been ill, had a birthday and I took the afternoon to go with our church women’s society to surprise her. So I didn’t get the letters finished. Got too tired to write after the party. But I love Elnora.
November 5, 1969
Wrote the rest of the letters – six in all, very carefully written – to chairmen of the committees, our senators and my rep & to Pres. Nixon. Will not date the last will hold it till response to his Viet Nam address tapers off. I also sent material to several friends who will write I hope. Edith Holloway caught a skunk and shot it.
November 6, 1969
This may be the day Edith Holloway killed a skunk she caught in a steel trap under her house. I lent her my steel trap Sunday. Caught him Sun. night but he got away. This time she got up in the night and shot him as soon as the scent erupted. I am making late entry but it was this week.
November 7, 1969
Worked this week getting my illustrations and maps in final shape.
November 8, 1969
I worked in the library in the afternoon.
November 9, 1969
I have worked Taught my S.S. class. Heard a sermon by a part-time man named Stockton – a professional councellor [sic] from Stillwater. He will preach Sunday and spend Wednesdays here.
November 10, 1969
Finished all work on my illustrations except two that I think I shall fail to get. Mailed everything to the publisher.
November 11, 1969
Attended club at Maxine Harak’s Good meeting.
November 12, 1969
Last night Edith Holloway killed a skunk. Set a steel trap she borrowed from me under her house and shot it with a rifle when she caught him. This is the second skunk she caught there. The smell destroyed sleep in both houses. I didn’t get much done today because too tired from sleepless night.
November 13, 1969
A hectic day. I had soaked clothes all night to wash today – and the water went off. I got some questions from Helen Kline who is editing my MS. I worked on that. Then the water came on and I washed. (Didn’t want to let clothes soak while till tomorrow.) Grabbed some crackers and cheese to eat while they were in machine. Then helped Ramona at library. Getting cold.
November 14, 1969
Our first really cold day. Yesterday evening I picked some roses (have been enjoying them all fall) but I doubt that they will continue blooming.
November 15, 1969
Lovely day. And my roses are still blooming – not killed by cold spell. Furnace turned off except in morning. Learned that Mr. Ritchie died.
November 16, 1969
Fine S.S. class. Good sermon by an OSU boy named Rice. It turned cold last night. I drove to Guthrie and made a new will. Another war warm day. There is still one or more skunks under Edith’s house. They made an awful disturbance that almost drove us out of both houses. Edith went out with her gun but the traps were still set last night. But this morning both traps were sprung and no skunks.
November 17, 1969
Warm day. Turned furnace off except a little while in morning. Poor Edith saw a skunk go under her house. Got rifle but too late. Then in the evening he or they almost drove us out of both houses. She got flash light and rifle but the traps and bait were untouched. Once a party of skunks choose to winter home there they will dig their way to it.
November 18, 1969
It turned cold last night. Edith found both traps under her house sprung but empty. I drove to Guthrie this P.M. and had a new will made. No important changes but brought it up to date. I found som [sic] clever stationary with skunk pics on it to give Edith. How she laughed!
November 19, 1969
Warmer, sunny day. I am not so interested in the moon landing of Apollo 12 as I was in Apollo 11. In the evening I attended the annual pancake (and sausage) supper cooked and served by the men at the church.
November 20, 1969
I am writing letters these days trying to enlist help for the Alaska natives in their land claims bill before Congress. I attended a meeting of the library board this evening. Warm day.
November 21, 1969
Lovely warm day. No fire furnace heat, going down town without coat. The town paved the street south of my house. I am very happy about it. My garage opens on that street. “Paved” is not quite right-tar and chet is what they did.
November 22, 1969
I kept the library this afternoon but not a customer came by.
November 23, 1969
I taught my S.S. class and heard a fine sermon. But we need a pastor. Mr. Stockton dashes over from Stillwater and preaches a sermon and darts back. That is all.
November 24, 1969
I called on Sandy Howard’s mother, who is keeping the children and home while Sandy is at Mayo’s. Her husband is with her. No diagnosis yet as to Sandy’s trouble. The mother, Mrs. Atwood flew here from Anchorage Alaska.
November 25, 1969
Our club was to visit the Guthrie Job Corps this morning but only three of us went. We were greatly impressed. There has been much change in personnel of the staff and much improvement.
November 26, 1969
I am catching up on letters etc. My main work on the book is done. I made a few changes in the MS today and yesterday I sent in a belated illustration.
November 27, 1969
I worked at reading a manuscript that came in the mail today from the OU Press. It seems very scholarly but I am not sure of it. Elsie Clem and Ola came to see me this P.M. I was so happy to see them.
November 28, 1969
Finished reading the MS. I am still not sure that I shall recommend its acceptance. I wrote some letters and sent Alaska material to all my students of the Uni. of Okla. institute two years ago. In the evening Pat and Ramona came and I showed my Alaska Pictures.
November 29, 1969
I wrote my report on the MS and got it ready to mail but didn’t get it mailed. I left my report somewhat in doubt. Also wrote letters.
November 30, 1969
Taught my S.S. class (a fine one). A preacher named Burch preached a trial sermon. He has served as an army chaplain, is middle aged, well educated in the Bible Bible and the classics, but I am afraid he is a conservative, even a reactionary. The congregation voted to call him. He will come in January. I was one of 13 who voted “No” but I hope I was wrong.
December 1, 1969
Lovely warm golden day. I went to Stillwater to the library staff luncheon. I showed Alaska slides People seemed to enjoy them. Saw Mr. Hock about my Xmas letter.
December 2, 1969
[No entry.
December 3, 1969
I attended guild luncheon at the church and the meeting afterward. At the meeting Madonna and Luella Reim, with Luella Grassman at the piano gave a beautiful Xmas program.
December 4, 1969
I revised and sent in some more pages of my MS. Things keep happening and I have to bring it up to date. In the forenoon I went with Mabel & Raymond Bryson to Raymonds turnip patch and took pics. Some of the turnips are 28 in. around. I forget how much they weigh.
December 5, 1969
Cold day. I made a loaf of date bread for the Howards Howards. Sandy is returning from Mayos tonight after a successful operation. In the P.M. Vernon Allen came and did some needed work around my house.
December 6, 1969
It rained 1 in. last night. We needed it badly. My Xmas letters came today but I had other writing to do, so didn’t send out any. In the P.M. Ruth Rusco came with Alice and Jerry and Earl to tell me that Dwight died early this morning. I helped them arrange for the burial in the lot with his father and mother.
December 7, 1969
I taught my S.S. class and heard a sermon by Mr. Stockton. In the P.M. Linda & Denise Phelan, Julie Kusik, & Vickye Allen went to O.C. to compete in the state Farmer’s Union speech contest. They all won – four out of ten for the entire state. They will be given a trip to Washington.
December 8, 1969
Dec. 10. Turned two pages I wrote Christmas letters all day. I am trying to enlist help for the Alaska natives. In the evening my S.S. class decorated the Xmas tree. Great fun. Afterwards we ate pie; more fun. It rained last night & this morning. Another inch I guess.
December 9, 1969
Dec. 11. Turned two pages I went to Enid to have Dr. Shields test pressure in my eyes. Both are about 20, which is O.K. I think. Also I took my typewriter to have a screw tightened. Bright sunny crisp day. I got home at noon. Wrote letters all afternoon.
December 10, 1969
Dec. 8 Turned 2 pages. I sent out some Xmas letters. Also did some baking and planning for Dwight Rusco’s funeral. I am going to ask the family to stop at my house to rest if they wish. And perhaps they will be hungry after the long drive.
December 11, 1969
Dec. 9. Turned two pages. Mean misty day. Graveside services for Dwight at 3:00. I am the only one here who remembers the family. We have been close friends since 1899. Dwight’s father died when he was three (1907) and Emily took her three babies to the Stillwater area. I lived in their home when I taught my first school in 1907. They did not stop at my house this P.M.
December 12, 1969
Sent out letters mostly. I am sendin writing a special message on each printed letter.
December 13, 1969
Sent out Christmas letters.
December 14, 1969
Taught my S.S. class. Heard a sermon by Mr. Stockton.
December 15, 1969
More letters. We are having lovely weather this fall. Today was not quite as warm and golden as some of our days but not bad.
December 16, 1969
Finished my letters today except for a few I can’t send yet until I get new addresses as cards come in.
December 17, 1969
The cards for my S.S. class came today. They are beautiful, the Xmas pageant I photographed last year. Last Xmas it was a picture of the church under a red sky, but the colors were so weak I was almost ashamed to give them. Cloudy today but warm.
December 18, 1969
Answered some letters on my Xmas cards. It is like a party to hear from so many people I love but have contact with them only at Christmas.
December 19, 1969
The most baffling experience I ever had. Had finished my washing at the laundry. Loaded it in my trunk & laid purse there & closed trunk. Both car keys in purse – only time I ever had both in purse. I had no idea what to do. Paul Dale Newell easily removed the back seat and got keys. I drove happily home.
December 20, 1969
Kept library this afternoon. Got acquainted with some members of the Kerr family – Kerr children. Mrs. Kerr’s sisters Mrs. Mary Ann Morehead & Marion Powell and two young men. One named Robert Rader (?).
December 21, 1969
Full day and I enjoyed it. Had a fine S.S. class; Mr. Stockton preached one of the best sermons I ever heard (also communion service). In the evening drove out to the Drapers. Madonna & Albert there also. Leo Draper & I showed Alaska pictures pictures (his of a moose was magnificent), and the Enmeiers showed slides of the S.W.
December 22, 1969
I am not terribly busy these days. But some Christmas letters need to be answered. And I have a happy forenoon everyday going through the pile that comes in the morning mail.
December 23, 1969
Another day not very busy. Given to leisurely writing of letters and much happy reading. I seem to be getting sore throat tonight.
December 24, 1969
There was a beautiful Christmas program at the church this evening. Afterwards I drove around and saw the street lights & yard decorations. It gave me a lift. Then I opened my gifts – Irish halfs & perfume from the O’Neills and candy made by Ramona, stationery from my adopted granddaughter, a beautiful carriage robe from Dr. Ruby & Mr. Brown, and a fine attaché case from my S.S. class.
December 25, 1969
Had a beautiful Xmas day at the Bob Schaefers. Winnie S. and Gerry’s sister & husband & son and her father, Mr. Albrecht & his new wife were there. Bob, Gerry, & Ronnie gave me a beautiful Frankoma reproduction of a Willard Stone wood carving. I always wished I could afford one of his pieces, did not even know they had been copied in Frankoma. It is beautiful.
December 26, 1969
A very fine young Creek, Thomas Yahola, and his girlfriend, a Seminole named Joyce Alexander drove clear up from Wewoka to visit me. He had read and liked my Road to Disappearance. I did enjoy their visit. He is so bright and capable I think he will be a writer himself some day.
December 27, 1969
I didn’t accomplish much but writing letters etc. Gerna Phelan died suddenly last night. I talked with her in the beauty shop just a week ago yesterday. She had had some heart trouble, however.
December 28, 1969
Taught my S.S. class and heard Mr. Stockton’s last sermon, as good as the one last Sun. In the afternoon went to Gerna’s funeral at the Disciples Church. Alma Friend came by for me. Then after the funeral she stopped at my house & visited for a while. I worry about Alma since her parents’ death.
December 29, 1969
Found about an inch of snow on the ground this morning. The southern half of the state is snowed under. I worked at writing letters etc., things neglected during the Xmas rush.
December 30, 1969
It cleared off this P.M. and some snow melted. I attended club at the library with Selma De Witt as hostess. In the evening had a wonderful visit at the O’Neills with Henry and Mary Sue Helinghauser as guests. Henry was the young and fine Catholic priest here until he married and went to Ariz.
December 31, 1969
Bright day and much snow melted. Hulda Weber is very ill. Olga and Clara were called to Enid where she and Richard are in the Methodist nursing home.