Miami, Saline, Missouri, a history of 1903 through the diary of Wilbert S. Myers
The Diary of W. S. Myers
1903
Miami, Saline, MO
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[Transcriber's Note.....W. S. Myers kept three separate books in 1903: 1)his daily diary; 2)notes in what he called "Events in my lifetime;" and 3)the final year of the baby book he kept for Robert W. Myers. If there was additional information in the latter two works, I have added that to his daily diary entries below. MLD]
JANUARY
Thurs., Jan. 1.
This morning was a real pretty morning �.for the New Year! I invoiced and packed away the Xmas goods this a.m. ($25). Cyrena was up to the Store this a.m., to see me about a �Surprise Party� for Kate at our house tonight. It�s all okay with me. I�m always ready to help them out. So Cyrena, Emma and I gave Kate a surprise party tonight for her 17th birthday. It was a �chafing-dish� party and sixteen young people attended. Those present were: Mamie Grady, Flossy Bishop, Lottie Greenabaum, Cora Wood, Mary Haynie, Cyrena, Kate, Erskine Taylor, John Elder, Claude Coleman, Syd Wheeler, Dr. and Mrs. Wheeler, Angie, and Emma and myself. There was some snow and rain tonight but all seemed to have a nice time. My back gave me fits tonight, but still I very much enjoyed the party. Mary Haynie and Kate spent the night. Emma and I retired at 2 a.m.
Fri., Jan. 2.
Snow, rain and sleet most all day. I have been working on the �memorandum� for Lem all day, to take to St. Louis next Tuesday with him�.to buy some new Spring goods for us. Trade was fair today, $26.
I got home tonight at 6 p.m. Robert got his first package through the mail today, from Spearfish, South Dakota. It was a nice box of fine candy from his Aunt Ruth, and also a nice little letter from her.
Sat., Jan. 3.
Today has been all sorts of a weather day. Trade, though, was fair, $75. This $42 over that of last year on this day. The roads are rough, so not very many in town. Remember the party at Bishop�s Hall tonight. Emma came up to the Store to go, but came back home with me.
Sun., Jan. 4.
I didn�t get up until 7:30 a.m. I helped Emma, attended my Sunday School, came home and kept Robert while Emma went to her Church. I cleaned out our secretary of letters, papers, and books. We spent the eve at home. It snowed about � inch this evening. Cyrena was here awhile. I went to Mrs. Peterman�s this eve, late, and got some milk so we could have oyster soup for supper. We retired early.
Mon., Jan. 5.
We got this a.m. at 6:45. The sun was only out for a few moments today. Trade was nice, $46. I cleaned off all of our files today. I got home tonight at 6:30. Emma and Robert were uptown for a little while this afternoon. W. H. Wheeler, Sr., resigned his position as �Cashier� at the Bank today. F. McBurruss is now the "Cashier" and George P. Wheeler his his assistant.
Tue., Jan. 6.
I was up at 6:15 this a.m. Today has been cloudy most all day. Lem left this morning for a long �two-month�s trip.� He is going to Arkansas, Old Mexico, Colorado, and California, among other states. Emma�s uncle, Joshua Reynolds, took dinner with us today. Miss Lou and the Dr. had us come down tonight to eat some good cream that Cyrena had made for us and them. It was fine!
Wed., Jan. 7.
Last night certainly was a windy night. Trade, though, was very nice today. It was spitting snow some today at noon and also this eve. We got quite a good deal of cleaning done today at the Store. I�m now ready to go to work on the books in the a.m. Emma and Robert were at Dr. and Miss Lou�s this eve and tonight, so when I went down they made me sit and eat a hot supper. It was good, too, I tell you! I gave
Angie a little icon bank today, like Robert�s.
Thurs., Jan. 8.
Today has been a real pretty day, but cold. I have been working on the books all day (my first days work on them since Lem left). Jno. And Jobe worked on stock today. Papa dined with us today. I got home tonight at 6:15 p.m. Emma had fine �batter-cakes� tonight for supper.
Fri., Jan. 9.
Today has been a pretty day, but very cold. Emma and Robert went across the River this a.m., on the ice, to spend the day with Mary Burruss. I took dinner at Mary�s. John Hamner was at the Dentist Office very near all day. James W. Weir came in today.
Sat., Jan. 10.
Today has been, in part, a very pretty day, but somewhat cold. Trade was only fair, $76. It snowed this eve, about two-inches, and is yet coming tonight. I balanced up all our books tonight at the Store before coming home. Emma and Robert were at Miss Lou�s tonight. I brought Robert home on his sled from Miss Lou�s.
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At right is a photo of Robert Whitmore Myers, age 2 1/2, on his Christmas sled, Miami, M0, 1903
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Sun., Jan. 11.
It was three-degrees above zero this a.m. Cold. I was up at 6 a.m. and done lots of work and helped Emma. Then I attended Sunday School. Emma had the following here today, for dinner: Dr. Wheeler and Miss Lou, Cyrena, Kate, Angie, George and Blanche and Alice, Mable Carpenter, Lelia and Pauline (Wheeler), and Mary Haynie. Aunt Courtney and Nora helped Emma. Mable, Cyrena and Kate stayed for supper. Then Emma attended Church.
Mon., Jan. 12.
This was the coldest morning yet�..4-degrees below zero. This certainly was a cold, cold day. Though Emma and I attended the �Weir and Burruss� wedding. We had our dinner at noon, then went across the River, on the ice. We walked over. They were married at 2:20 o�clock. Then we all went to the Station with them and saw them off on the train. Miss Lou kept Robert. We got home at 6:15 p.m.
Tue., Jan. 13.
Today has been pretty all day�.real warm and the ice melting. Robert Dunlap put up 8 and 9-inch ice yesterday. Casebolt and Ayres are putting up ice today. I worked on the books all day. We got in lots of new goods this eve��shoes, hamburgs, laces, and whites. Emma and Robert were uptown this eve and came home with me tonight. I was at Miss Lou�s today, at noon, and fixed two shades for her.
Wed., Jan. 14.
This has been a pretty day. Trade nice, $50. We got in a lot of new goods again this a.m. Papa dined with us today. Emma and Robert were uptown this eve. I worked tonight until 9 p.m. Lovely, lovely night.
Thurs., Jan. 15.
Today has been lovely. Trade was nice all day. Emma, Robert and I dined at Mary�s today. Also Rettie and little Margaret were there. Rettie brought us some nice sausage. I got home tonight at 6:30 p.m.
Fri., Jan. 16.
Today has been a gloomy day, and the roads and crossings have been awful. Trade, though, was very nice. I made a gingham and hamburg lace display in the window this a.m., and also a sign this eve. I also made a sign for �Davis and McDaniel.�
Sat., Jan. 17.
In part this was a pretty day, but the roads have been so bad that not many were in town. Trade, though, was very nice today. John Hamner went to Kansas City this eve, so Emma helped us out. I thought Emma was going to get to go, but she got left. Blanche sent me a fine supper tonight.
Sun., Jan. 18.
I was up at 7:10 a.m. It was cool today, but not cold. I attended Sunday School, and also Church with Emma at the Baptist Church. We called on Mrs. Hamner this eve and also Mary for awhile. We went to the Store a few minutes also. Cyrena brought us a fine bowl of cream tonight and stayed awhile. Emma went to Church again tonight. I got a nice letter from Lem, in Texas, today.
Mon., Jan. 19.
Today was a real pretty, bright day. Trade was fair. John got back from Kansas City today, at noon. I went down to see Chas. Kruger today (this eve). Mr. Jacob Burns is very sick. Emma and Robert came up to the Store this eve and came home as I did.
Tue., Jan. 20.
Today it snowed some, but still not enough to amount to anything. I wrote a long, long letter to Lem this a.m., at San Antonio, Texas. I also made a few other little orders. Trade was very nice all day. Caddie Greenabaum was over tonight awhile. I brought Emma a new wrapper, tea-jacket, also sheeting and domestics tonight as I came home.
Wed., Jan. 21.
Today was a very pretty day after all, though this a.m. it looked a little threatening. Trade was nice today. I have been working on stock some today, also the books. I got my glasses back from Marshall this a.m. Emma and I took supper at Miss Lou�s tonight and stayed awhile. Then she and the Dr. went to Prayer Meeting.
Thurs., Jan. 22.
Today, in part, was a very fair day. Trade, though, was slow. I have been working on the books all day, drawing off a balance sheet. I pasted a good many items in my scrapbook tonight. Cyrena and Kate were here awhile.
Fri., Jan. 23.
This morning was dark and gloomy, then about 10 a.m. it commenced snowing and it kept at it all day. There is about 6-inches on the ground tonight. Trade was fair today. Emma and Robert went down to Miss Lou�s this eve and stayed until I got home. I sent Cyrena and Kate their rubbers and things up to the school. I was up to Mary�s awhile tonight. Remember the talk with G. T. Taylor this eve!
Sat., Jan. 24.
The sun came out and took quite a good deal of the snow away today. Trade today was fine, $106. Though, not many were in. Emma sent me a fine dinner and I got to eat it hot!! I got home tonight at 9:30 p.m. Nora and Robert, also Angie and others, were out coasting this eve, down in front of Miss Martha Venable's.
Sun., Jan. 25.
Up at 7 a.m. I attended Sunday School and took Robert with me. Then I left him at Mary�s while I attended my preaching and Emma went to hers. Robert gave Mary one of his photos on a sled this a.m. He also gave one to Caddie Greenabaum. Emma and I were uptown awhile this eve, then we went down to Miss Lou�s awhile. Emma played for the preacher who was there. Mabel Carpenter, and George, Blanche and little Alice were there, too. I went to Church tonight and Aunt Courtney kept Robert.
Mon., Jan. 26.
Today looked a whole lot like rain, but it didn�t come. John was at home all day, sick, so Jobe and I were busy all day. Trade was nice, but these roads are awful��muddy as muddy can be! I mailed three little pictures of Robert today, on his sled�..to Mrs. Burns, Mrs. Weir and Miss Overly. Emma and Robert were uptown and came home with me tonight.
Tue., Jan. 27.
It was gloomy all day. Trade was fair. Caddie Greenabaum and Mr. Skelton, also Miss Mollie Bell and Mr. G. G. Hawkins were married today. I got home early tonight. These roads are awful�.so muddy! I finished up my scrapbook tonight�.all of my pieces.
Wed., Jan. 28.
The sun was out a little while this eve, but most of the day was gloomy. I made a �Rural Route� sign today and I also printed two other signs this eve. Emma and Robert were at the Store this eve. Emma called on Ida Royar Wheeler this eve. Emma and I picked a lot of pecans tonight.
Thurs., Jan. 29.
Papa is 75-years old today. Emma had a nice dinner for him today. We had Mary and Lewis here also. Robert ordered him a �watch charm� but it has not come yet. It has turned 11-degrees colder today since 7 o�clock this a.m. The roads are very near impassable�.awful! I worked awhile tonight. �Davis & McDaniel� left their old stand today and moved down to the Brown Building, by us.
Fri., Jan. 30.
Today has been a very pretty day, but the roads are so awfully muddy that very few can get into town. I have been working on getting statements out of the way today. Mary Myers sent me a fine supper at the Store.
Sat., Jan. 31.
Today has been a very pretty day overhead, but the roads are still so muddy that very few have been in. Trade was nice, though, considering�$78. This month has been the largest sales month we have ever had for a January. We beat last Jan. by over $188. Emma sent me a nice dinner. I got home at 9:30 p.m. It was cloudy and dark out.
FEBRUARY
Sun., Feb. 1.
Up at 7:05 a.m. Robert and I attended Sunday School. Then we went over to see Grandpa (Myers). We went to the Store and then to Bob Dunlap�s where we heard the �music box.� Then home. Emma had such a cold she stayed home today. We all took a walk up to the Store this eve, then up to the corner and then around to see George and Blanche, and Mabel Carpenter. Then they came home with us and stayed awhile. We did not go to Church tonight. Emma is not very well.
Mon., Feb. 2.
Groundhog Day! Today has sure been a real pretty day, all day. I suspect the groundhog saw his shadow. Trade nice. Jobe and John have been working upstairs all day. I have had all I could do downstairs. I paid off a lot of bills today. Emma and Robert were uptown this eve. I got a nice letter from Lem today.
Tue., Feb. 3.
There was sleet and rain all last night and most all day today. Trade, though, was very good considering, $26. I wrote an ad today for the newspaper and three locals. I also printed a sign for our new hamburg scheme, with a rug. I brought fresh oysters home tonight for supper. I wrote Lem a long letter this eve, to Los Angeles, Cal.
Wed., Feb. 4.
It sleeted, snowed, and blowed all night! It is also very cold! It was slick as glass out most all day. Though trade was very nice. I got home tonight at 6:15 p.m. I have not felt the best in the world. I made 147 tickets this eve for our �hamburg contest� that opens Saturday a.m., for one month. While playing with Emma's kitchen cabinet this morning, Robert had the flour bin clover slam shut on his two fingers, next to his little finger, on his right hand.
Thurs., Feb. 5.
Today has been a very pretty day. It has turned quite a good deal warmer which has made things awful muddy and sloppy. Trade, though, was very nice all day. John and Jobe got the upstairs all done by this eve and it is now in fine ship-shape. We gave Robert's photo (sitting on his sled) to the following persons today: Aunt Mary Myers, Caddie Greenabaum, Mrs. J. W. Weir (Mary Burruss), Mrs. M. L. Burns, Miss May Overly, Mrs. Willie Hays, Miss Emma Parsons, Mrs. C. G. Vaughan, Mrs. Jas. Long, and Miss Mary Haynie. We got in a few new goods this eve. I have an awful cold. Don�t feel well at all.
Fri., Feb. 6.
This has been a very pretty day and trade was fine, $49. We opened our �hamburg contest� this eve. The winner gets a rug. There were a good many people in town. Emma and Robert went down home tonight, so I went down and the Dr. and Miss Lou made me stay and eat supper. Then I helped Emma with her invitations, for her little entertainment next Friday eve. Oops�..I said �Emma,� when I meant �Cyrena.� George Jackson was over to see Kate tonight.
Sat., Feb. 7.
Today has been a gloomy one most all day. And trade has been awful dull, only $31. Very few in town. The roads are awful rough and it was snowing fine all eve. I got my pedometer today. I put it on at 5:20 p.m., and in 5-hours time at the Store and on my way home, together, I walked
1�-miles.
Sun., Feb. 8.
Today was part pretty and part gloomy. I had a terrific headache this a.m., but I attended Sunday School and also went to Church with Emma, to her Church. Cyrena was here a long while this eve, also Kate. Papa dined with us today. Cyrena and Emma went to Church this eve, to practice, and Robert and I went to the store for awhile. Kate and Angie stayed with Robert and I while Emma and the rest of them went to Church tonight.
Mon., Feb. 9.
Today has been another real pretty day, but, as the roads have been so bad, our trade today has not been rushing......but still fair. Jobe was at home sick today. I have been selecting wallpaper all day. Emma and Robert were uptown this eve.
Tue., Feb. 10.
Today has been a very bright day......but these roads....trade knockers!! I worked on the wallpaper this a.m. John commenced winding laces and hamburgs today. I made a dry goods order this eve, by freight. Cyrena was here awhile this eve. John brought me a fine piece of cream pie tonight. Little Robert went to sleep again tonight before I got home.
Wed., Feb. 11.
Today has been a very pretty day, though trade has been quiet. The roads are still awful. I made an
"anchor emblem" for Cyrena today. Robert and Angie were uptown this eve. Emma and Robert were down to Miss Lou's tonight.
Thurs., Feb. 12.
Gloomy all day. It turned colder today. Trade quiet. I cut seventy-seven red hearts for Cyrena today. Emma and Robert spent today at Miss Lou's. Emma helped her all day long with the baking. I was down there for awhile tonight. I took the anchor and ribbon to Cyrena tonight. I commenced work on my own private book tonight at the Store. Got the sales up for today on my book.
Fri., Feb. 13.
Cyrena entertained her class tonight. I draped the pink and green ribbon over the table today at noon, and hung the emblem - the anchor - over the table for her. They had a fine supper for her and we all had a nice time. Emma and I surprised her this eve with a dozen fine carnations. Today has been gloomy all day. Trade was awful quiet. Jobe and John got all the hamburgs wound and finished up all the laces today. We got home from Dr. Wheeler's tonight at 11:30 p.m.
Sat., Feb. 14.
Today has been gloomy all day. Trade, though, has been very nice, but not very many in town. There was a "masquerade party" at Hamner's tonight. I made a crown for Cyrena to take this eve (though she did not get to go after all). A big snow fell this eve from 3:30 to night. I got home at 10 p.m.
Sun., Feb. 15.
I got up at 7:15 a.m. It snowed all last night and all day today, up to 5 p.m. Emma and I attended her Church for preaching this a.m., but I didn't go to my Sunday School. It was too bad out. The wind was blowing snow all day. I took Robert down to Miss Lou's this a.m., on his sled. I would judge that the snow was a foot deep. Bro. Davis and Kate spent the afternoon with us, and took supper also. Tonight was still cold and snowy.
Mon., Feb. 16.
Today has been one real gloomy, cold, day! Trade, though, was very nice....$32. The River blocked here this eve, at 4 p.m., for the second time this winter. I came home at 5:45 p.m. and surprised Emma and Robert (though they saw me coming and John had phoned them). So....they hid in the closet from me. Little Robert gave them away, though, in the closet by calling, "father!"
Tue., Feb. 17.
Last night was the coldest night and today was the coldest day this winter.....13-degrees below zero. Trade, though, was very fair. I commenced working on the hamburg book today. Emma and Robert were at Dr. Wheeler's tonight, so when I went there they made me stay for supper. Cyrena and I fixed some popcorn afterwards.
Wed., Feb. 18.
Today was bright and pretty all day, but it was 8-degrees below zero. Trade was only fair. It was too cold for many to come in. John and I worked on the hamburg book all day. Emma was up to Lelia May's for awhile this eve. Robert was down at his grandma's. Emma got Robert a harp and some candy this eve.
Thurs., Feb. 19.
Today has been a real pretty day. Trade was nice all day. The roads are getting nice, so people can come to town. Rettie and Margaret were in awhile this eve. Emma and Robert were uptown this eve awhile. I got a load of kitchen wood from Mr. Robert W. Haynie this a.m......also a load of wood from a darkey.
Fri., Feb. 20.
This has sure been a very pleasant day. Trade nice. Mary Myers is real sick this eve. Emma went up for awhile. I brought Robert home this eve and Emma came afterwards. Rev. W. L. Barber was here when we got home. He is going to stay with us on this visit.
Sat., Feb. 21.
Today has been a real pretty day, but trade has been very slow. Not so very many in town. As Bro. Barber was with us, I went home to my dinner and supper. I got home tonight at 9:30 p.m. Mary is better this eve. Miss Lizzie Hamner is waiting on her. It is cold out tonight.
Sun., Feb. 22.
I was up at 6:30 a.m. It was lovely all day. I attended Sunday School and also Church. I went over to see Mary for awhile. Our Church smoked so today that we had to use the M. E. Church tonight. Bro. Barber was with us all day today. Cyrena kept Robert for us while we attended Church tonight. It was a good deal warmer tonight.
Mon., Feb. 23.
Bro. Barber left us this morning. Today has been gloomy most all day, but trade was very nice. John and I commenced work on our "lace book" today. Emma and Robert were up to see Mary this eve. They stayed there and came home with me. "Nettie" had seven little baby pups tonight.
Tue., Feb. 24.
Today has been a real pretty day. Trade was nice, too, most all day. John and I have been working on laces all day, for our book. The ferryboat, "Commodore", sunk this eve, as the River broke up for the second time this year and smashed the boat. Robert has been unwell all eve. Mary Haynie was here this eve and took supper with us.
Wed., Feb. 25.
Today I finished up my hamburg, lace, and white goods book. I got it all now in fine shape. Today trade has been fine. Robert was very unwell again today. I got home early. Cyrena and Kate were here for quite a little while tonight.
Thurs., Feb. 26.
Today has been gloomy all day. It commenced to rain and blow this eve at 5 o'clock. Mrs. Geo. Kieffer was buried here this eve, at 2 o'clock. Trade was nice all day. We had a big sale on rubber goods. Robert was a good deal better this eve. Mrs. Jno. G. Guthrey moved here first load of furniture here last eve. I have a severe sick headache this eve. I commenced on Lem's "memoranda book" for new spring goods this a.m. Cyrena was at home, sick, today.
Fri., Feb. 27.
Today has, in part, been a very gloomy day. Though trade was very nice. The roads, though, are very muddy. The country people can't get to town. Bob Dunlap's "Show" did not get here this eve, but will be here for tomorrow night. I have been working on the books most all day. Emma has a very bad cold. Robert is about well again.
Sat., Feb. 28.
This has sure been one cold, windy, disagreeable day, and the roads are awful! There were very few in town today.... $46 day. Though we have run ahead this Feb. over that of last Feb. Emma went to the "Show" tonight and Nora kept Robert at the Store with me tonight. Cyrena came home with Emma, Robert, and I tonight from the Store.....cold and dark.
MARCH
Sun., March 1.
I was up at 7 a.m. Very cold, but real pretty out. I took Robert up to Sunday School in his wagon this a.m. (though we didn't have any, after all). So we went over to see Grandpa Myers. Emma attended Church and I took Robert down to his Uncle Jesse's Store, to see "Nettie's" seven little pups. He thought they were real cute. Emma and Robert and I were down home awhile this eve. I also went up to the Store awhile this eve. We were all at home tonight.
Mon., Mar. 2.
Today was, in part, a very pretty day. Trade was very nice, though not very many in town. I have been working on Lem's "memorandum" all day, fixing it in book form. I came home tonight feeling awful bad, my back aching so that I can hardly stand up. Mrs. Hays gave Robert a chicken tonight.
Tue., Mar. 3.
Today was gloomy and chilly all day. Trade, though, was nice. I finished and bound Lem's "memorandum book" today. Mary got the trunk of fruit that Lem sent her today. The fruit certainly is fine. She sent us a nice basket of it. Emma and Robert were uptown this eve and Emma got Robert three new dresses for Spring.
Wed., Mar. 4.
Today has been a summer-day! It has been very warm out. Trade, though, was not very brisk. I done some work on my own book this eve....for the first time in ages. Emma has a dreadful cold. We want to commence cleaning the downstairs at Store in the a.m., if the weather is still good.
Thurs., Mar. 5.
This has been a gloomy day all day long, and trade very, very dull. We did commence cleaning house in good fashion this a.m., and will try and finish up in good shape tomorrow eve. Rev. Stevens, the Baptist Preacher, died this eve. Mrs. Willie Bishop's husband and Mary Haynie were here for awhile tonight. I sold Lester Whitaker my pedometer today, at noon.
Fri., Mar. 6.
Today has been a sure-enough Spring Day! It was pretty and bright out and very, very warm. The roads, though, are so awfully muddy that the country people can't come to town. Jobe, John and I have been cleaning house all day long and we have also had Frank Jakes helping us all day. We got everything done this eve at 7 p.m. O!...How tired I do feel. I ate supper at 8:10 p.m. Rev. Stevens was buried this eve at 4:30 p.m.
Sat., Mar. 7.
Today was a real pretty day. Trade was very nice, though the roads are still awful......knee-deep to a horse. We had an $86 day. The hamburg rug contest closed tonight. We sold 568 3/4 yards, and the sale of 568 1/2 yards got it, by Mrs. Jno. Sibley. I balanced up my books tonight and got everything in fine shape for Lem. I got home at 10 p.m. Ida Bristoe died this eve.
Sun., Mar. 8.
I did not get up this morning until 7:20 a.m., as we were about out of fuel. Also, the roads are so horribly muddy we did not attempt Sunday School. Emma and I attended her church, though I had to leave with Robert. It was a lovely day, all day. Robert and I went to see Uncle Webb today at noon. He is very sick. We took a long walk this eve, and to see Lewis who is also sick. Cyrena and Kate were here awhile this eve. Emma attended Church tonight.
Mon., Mar. 9.
This has been all kinds of a day. Trade has been very nice. Lem got home today, at noon, from a two-months, three-day trip. We put down new oil cloth behind the counter today. Emma and I sent Uncle Webb his breakfast and dinner today.
Tue., Mar. 10.
Today has been a gloomy day, all day. Trade, though, very fair. We had a nice shower last night and some little drizzle today. I got to have a short talk with Lem this eve.
Wed., Mar. 11.
Today has been a real pretty day. Trade, though, was dull. I worked on the books awhile this eve, but my back got to hurting me so bad that I just had to come home about 5 o'clock and lay up.
Thurs., Mar. 12.
This has been one lovely, lovely day. I have been at home all day and feel much better this eve. Emma went uptown for me this eve and got the meat.
Fri., Mar. 13.
I was at the Store all day today until about 5:30 p.m. And, as Emma and Robert were uptown, I came home with them. My back was hurting me again today. Trade was not very brisk. The roads are too muddy for anyone to come to town.
Sat., Mar. 14.
Today was gloomy and foggy. Then, about 3 p.m., the sun came out for awhile. I came home at 11 a.m. as my back was still hurting. I worked on my sales book today. Kate and Mary Haynie were here for awhile this eve. John Hamner quits us tonight, lacking one week of a year's work.
Sun., Mar. 15.
I got up at 7:30 a.m. We did not have any Sunday School this morning. Emma and I were at home all day, except for a little while this eve. Mr. and Mrs. C. V. Davis, Cyrena, Kate, Angie, the Dr. and Miss Lou were all here this eve. Angie took tea with us. We did not go to Church tonight.
Mon., Mar. 16.
Today has been a very pretty day, and trade nice all day. I worked on the books all morning. Lem had a talk with G. T. this a.m. I took wood from home up to the Store this a.m. Mrs. J. F. Burruss, Flora, and Mersell(?) spent today with Emma. Emma and Robert and I took a walk tonight, and down home awhile.
Lem has been in the dry goods business twenty-two years today. I have been in the business for 16 years (on the second of this month).
Tue., Mar. 17.
This has been a lovely day. Trade was nice all day. I went through our slipper dept. today. Lem worked on the machines today. Myn Burruss and Mary Haynie were over tonight and stayed quite awhile.
Wed., Mar. 18.
Today, for awhile, it looked as though it might rain, but this eve it cleared up. The new ferryboat got here this eve at 5 p.m. Trade today was very fair, though not very many in town.
Thurs., Mar. 19.
There was heavy wind and rain here last night, and it has been gloomy and rainy all day. Trade quiet. Very few in town. Lem and I made up a "shoe list" today. I paid off a lot of bills today. Emma made some fine candy this eve. I got home at 6:30 p.m. and brought Robert a big orange.
Fri., Mar. 20.
It was 7-degres below the freezing point this morning. I had a load of wood taken from our woodhouse to the Store today. The sun was out for awhile today, but it was very cold. Emma and Robert were uptown this eve and came home as I did. Aunt Courtney and Nora stayed with Robert while Emma and I went to hear Miss Morse at Dunlap's Hall.
Sat., Mar. 21.
Today has been a real pretty day. Trade very nice. We got in a big lot of wallpaper today. I got it all checked up and marked. I got home tonight at 10 p.m. I bought me a new hat today, one of the new shapes. Mrs. Myn Burruss was taken sick this eve. A little girl baby was born to her, but only lived a few minutes.
Sun., Mar. 22.
Today has been a real pretty, bright, warm day. Emma and Robert went to Sunday School with me this a.m........also to Church, and tonight again. Bro. Barber was here this eve awhile. Emma, Robert, Susie Vaughan, Mabel Carpenter, Cyrena, Angie, and I all walked down to the River this eve to see the new boat. Then we went up to the Store awhile. Lem and George Burruss took Frank and Myn's little infant and buried it this a.m., at the Christian Graveyard.
Mon., Mar. 23.
L. A. Myers and W. S. Myers left for St. Louis this a.m. This was the writer's first trip to St. Louis. Will be back on Saturday morning.
Tue., Mar. 24.
I done my first buying in a wholesale house this morning, at St. Louis. It was in Hargadine McKittrick's Dry Goods Co.
Wed., Mar. 25.
St. Louis, MO..... I went by myself in the city for my first time.
Thurs., Mar. 26.
St. Louis, MO......I was out to the Worlds Fair Grounds all eve, then the Union Depot at night.
Fri., Mar. 27.
St. Louis, MO......left for home tonight. Didn't sleep very much coming home. I bought Robert a nice box of candy, a football, and a nice white kid cap.
Sat., Mar. 28.
Home again this a.m. We had a very nice day at the Store. I got home tonight at 10 p.m.......tired, sleepy, and worn out!
Sun., Mar. 29.
Cyrena slept with Emma last night and I slept on the lounge in the dining room. I did not get up until 7:30 a.m., and I did not attend Sunday School. I spent all day at home......resting. Mr. M. L. Burns was here this eve, also Cyrena and Jess. We left Robert asleep tonight with Miss Lou while we attended Church at the Baptist Church.
Mon., Mar. 30.
Today has been a real pretty day. Trade nice all eve. I have been working in the wallpaper dept. all day. I worked tonight until 10 p.m. Emma raked the front yard and put in her sweet peas this eve. She and Robert were at Miss Lou's tonight.
Tue., Mar. 31.
Today has been a real pretty day. Trade very fair. Not very many in town either. I raked a little in the back yard this a.m. Emma has done all the rest of the yard cleaning. Lem was down to Dr. W. H. Morris' this eve. I finished our wallpaper book this eve.
APRIL
Wed., Apr. 1.
This has been a lovely day all day, though a little windy. We got in most all of our new goods today. We have been busy all day. I worked tonight until 10 p.m. I am tired and worn out. Little Robert and I buried three little kittens this a.m.
Thurs., Apr. 2.
Today has been a real pretty day. Trade was very nice most all day. We worked again tonight until 10 p.m. Jobe and I had to come home in the rain tonight. Emma and I had a time tonight getting Robert home from Miss Lou's, as it was raining so hard. Angie was 8-years old today and Robert gave her a pretty string of beads this eve.
Fri., Apr. 3.
We had hard rain and some wind last night, also snow.....1.32". But the sun came out this eve and took it all away. Trade very slow.....hardly anyone in town. We worked again tonight until 10 p.m. Lem bought Bank stock this eve and was elected as one of the "directors' this eve. Cyrena and Kate at a big party out a Vanmeter's tonight.
Sat., Apr. 4.
This has been one real pretty day! Trade fine. Emma sent me my dinner, also my supper. She was up and helped us wait on trade this eve. We couldn't wait on all of it though. I got home at 10:15 tonight.....tired and worn out. I gave Emma one of the new "grape belts" tonight.
Sun., Apr. 5.
Today has been a lovely day, though very windy. Robert and I attended Sunday School this a.m., and also went to Lem's, then to Store, and then home. Cyrena and Angie took supper with us and Kate took dinner. Emma went to Church this eve, so Robert and I walked to the River, up to the Store, up to the schoolhouse, then back to Wood's. Then we went up to Dunlap's to see Hallie and Elbert, then home. We went to Church tonight where Robert had a spell and we had to come home with him.
Mon., Apr. 6.
Today has been a very pretty day and trade was fine all day. We have had all we could attend to. As Elbert and Hallie took supper with us and spent the night, I came home at 7 p.m. and stayed.
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At right is a photo of Isaac Myers and his great grand-dau., Harriett (Hallie) Dunlap. Little Hallie, born April 17, 1902, is the daughter of Elbert Dunlap, MD, and Hallie Hudson. Previous diaries of W. S. Myers revealed that Elbert Dunlap was one of his best friends and that Hallie Hudson was his niece, daughter of his sister, Lina and husband, Hiram T. Hudson.
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Tue., Apr. 7.
Today has been another pretty day and trade was nice all day. We have had all we could do all day long. Emma and Robert spent today out at Rettie's, with Hallie, Elbert, and them all. They got home tonight at 10:30 p.m. Emma and Kate came up to the Store after me tonight.
Wed., Apr. 8.
This has been a very pretty day indeed. Trade has been very fair. I have worked upstairs all day and up to 9:15 p.m. Got it in good shape. Mr. J. H. Noonan's house burnt today at 12 o'clock.....came very near taking Mrs. Switzer's house as well. We took all of her things out and the fire damaged them some. I raised $28.25 this eve and will make it $30 by the morning. Emma is at Church practicing tonight, so I got little Robert and came on home.
Thurs., Apr. 9.
This morning was real pretty, but this eve was cloudy. Though trade was nice all day, $103. I worked tonight until 10 p.m. Emma was up at Clara Kile's tonight, practicing. So after she was finished she came down to the Store after me. It sprinkled some while we were coming home.
Fri., Apr. 10.
We had a hard rain last night....1.78 inches. Lightning struck E. S. Casebolt's barn and killed a horse of his. Today trade has been fine. I have done quite a good deal on decorating the Store today and tonight. I got home at 10 p.m. There is lightning and thunder tonight.
Sat., Apr. 11.
This has been one real pretty day, and trade was just spendid, a $233 day. That made $300 more this week than this week a year ago......over $400 on the month. Emma and John helped us out this eve. Lots of people were in town. I got home tonight at 10:30 p.m. Lovely, lovely night. Mr. Harden brought "Jerry" home this eve.
Sun., Apr. 12.
"Easter"...I got up at 7:10 a.m. We had a fine time with little Robert looking for Easter eggs, his first time. I attended Sunday School, but did not attend any Church service today. I kept Robert all day. I was up to the Store this eve awhile. Mrs. B. sent us some fine cream tonight. Cyrena also brought us a fine bowl of cream tonight.
Mon., Apr. 13.
I got up at 6 a.m. Then I went down to the stable and cleaned it out and got things all fixed for this summer. Lem worked on the hat dept. today and I worked on the notion dept. It rained some this eve. It was gloomy and cool all day. Trade, though, was very nice. Home at 8:30 p.m.
Tue., Apr. 14.
Up at 6:30 a.m. and raked part of the back lot this morning. Rettie and Margaret were here today and spent the day. It was gloomy and cold all day, also windy. I worked tonight until 8:45 p.m. Then Cyrena and Bess Noonan came in for me to take them home, which I did.
Wed., Apr. 15.
Up at 6 a.m. and finished raking the back lot....also around the woodhouse. It was gloomy all day and trade was only fair. Jobe put down a brussell carpet at Geo. Mullen's this eve. Lem sold five carpets to Henry Bure this eve. I worked tonight until 9:30 p.m. It was drizzling rain and dark out.
Thurs., Apr. 16.
This a.m. I got up and cleaned out the woodhouse. Today has been mostly a gloomy day. Trade, though, was nice. We got a new "price-marker" today, so I have been busy all day. I worked tonight until 9:30 p.m.
Fri., Apr. 17.
We commenced again today our regular "Friday's cash sale days." We have been busy all day long. Trade fine. Emma and Mary Haynie came by the Store tonight and came home with me. I got Robert a little set of garden tools today. Dave Reynolds shaved me this eve.
Sat., Apr. 18.
Today has been one very, very, disagreeable day.....all day! It blowed and blowed all morning. Then it clouded up and rained most of the evening. Still....trade was nice, $176. I got home tonight at 9:30 p.m. It rained on me coming home and was very dark out. Sherman Brown washed our buggy off this morning.
Sun., Apr. 19.
I got up at 6:30 a.m. The sun was out lovely for awhile. Emma and I, also Robert, went to Sunday School. Then we went out to Rettie's to spend the day. The roads were muddy (as it rained so last night). Rettie had a fine dinner for us and ice-cream for a finish. We started home at 5:30 p.m. It got cloudy and began to thunder and lightning, then soon it came down, so we had to stop at Miss Emma Parson's for 1/2 hour. At last we got home but the rain was still coming down.
Mon., Apr. 20.
Today has been a very pretty day and trade was very nice all day. Mary Hooper died this a.m., at 3:30, at Mr. W. H. Wheeler's. I made a display of the school work this eve in our window. I took Imogene Webster and the Bond children home from the Store tonight, from the practice hall.
Tue., Apr. 21.
Today has been a real pretty day and trade nice. Mary Hooper was buried this morning. All the Stores closed for her service. I fixed a "Graduate Board" this morning and put the class colors on it. I also did a little printing, on the typewriter, on the schoolwork for Prof. Hitchborn. I worked on the shoe dept. tonight. Robert and Nora fell out of the stable loft this eve.
Wed., Apr. 22.
We had a heavy frost last night. Though today was pretty and bright all day and trade was nice. Papa took dinner with us today. Aunt Courtney kept Robert for us tonight and Emma and I attended the 1903 Class Play at the Hall. It was good!
Thurs., Apr. 23.
This morning was pretty and clear, but this eve was cloudy. Trade was nice all day. Lem was down to the Mullen's today, putting down carpets. We had all we could handle this eve. Rettie and Margaret came in this eve and spent the night with us. Aunt Courtney kept Robert. Papa sold our old home place this a.m., to Mr. Jno. Hooper, for $650. Cyrena Wheeler graduates tonight.
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At right, and on down the page, are members of the faculty, administration, and the Board of Education for Miami Public Schools, 2002-03. These articles were cut from the Miami News and pasted into the scrapbooks of W. S. Myers
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Fri., Apr. 24.
Today has been windy most all day and the dust very bad. Trade was nice, though. I finished up the shoe side tonight. I kept Robert and Margaret at the Store tonight, with Nora, while Rettie and Emma went to the Hall for the "closing exercises" of the school. L. W. Haynie bought the Vaughan Place this eve, the place where we first lived, $800.
Sat., Apr. 25.
I got up this a.m. and done my regular work. Then I put in two rows of late peas. Trade was nice today most all day. Rettie took dinner at Mary's today. Mary and Lewis were over tonight. I got home at 10:30 p.m. Trade today was $186. Jesse Wheeler bought George Wheeler's residence yesterday, $550.
Sun., Apr. 26.
I got up at 6:45 a.m. A lovely day. I attended Sunday School and also Church. Jim came in after Rettie and little Margaret this eve. Papa and Syd Wheeler took dinner with us today. George and Blanche Wheeler were also here. This eve, while going to Sulphur springs, going down the hill here at the slaughter pen on this side of the big bridge, Old Jerry stopped real sudden and threw Emma and Robert out of the buggy. But neither one was hurt.
Mon., Apr. 27.
I got up at 6 a.m. I cut a few weeds in the garden. Today was dusty and gloomy, but trade was nice all morning. It was dull in the afternoon. Mrs. J. B. Cunningham, Emma's sister, came from Excelsior Springs this a.m. George and Blanche broke up housekeeping today. They are over to Dr. Wheeler's for awhile tonight. We all played "Flinch" tonight.
Tue., Apr. 28.
Today has been a very windy, dusty, disagreeable day. Trade was very nice, though. I worked upstairs all day. I have things in fine shape now. Taylor Casebolt gave us a nice box of strawberries today. We attended the "School Banquet" tonight. Aunt Courtney kept Robert and Angie tonight. Taylor gave us a nice supper and we got home at 11 p.m.
Wed., Apr. 29.
I went over and stuck Mrs. Hays' peas this a.m., as she is out in the country. Today was gloomy, rainy, and cold. It is raining hard tonight. Geo., Blanche, and dau. Alice, also Mrs. J. B. Cunningham, were here tonight and took supper. Geo. and family spent the night with us. It rained hard most all night. We played Flinch until after 11 o'clock.
Thurs., Apr. 30.
Cold! It spit snow this a.m.. The fire has felt good all day. Trade was nice most of the day as there were a good many in town. I changed things around in the Store today and fixed up one window display. Emma and Robert were uptown and came home with me. Mrs. J. B. C. went home this eve.
MAY
Fri., May 1.
We had a heavy frost last night. It was very cool this morning. Today was a busy day with us all day. This April was our biggest spring month's business we have ever had, over $2400. Mary Haynie, Emma, Robert and I all went down to Miss Lou's awhile tonight.
Sat., May 2.
Today has been partly pretty, but very cool. Trade, though, has been fine all day long. I got home tonight at 9 p.m. I gave Cyrena a little box tonight, of a few little gifts for her trip. We all had two good games of Flinch tonight and I beat both times. I also gave Katherine a Chatelaine pin this eve.
Sun., May 3.
I was up at 6:15 a.m. Cold! Robert and I attended Sunday School, then went to the Store until noon. We were also down to the graveyard for a while after Sunday School. Harry Myers [Newt's son] was here awhile today, after dinner. Emma, Robert and I started out to see Rettie, Jim and Margaret, but met them coming in, so we went on out to see Dave Reynolds and his wife. We got home early. Dr. and Miss Lou were here awhile tonight, also Cyrena. I kept Robert and Angie tonight while Emma attended Church.
Mon., May 4.
The "bells" woke me up at 12:30 this a.m., and the alarm was given for the lumber yard on fire. It was Jim Vaughan's "Implements and Lumber Yard." I woke Frank Burruss up and Myn came over with Emma and Frank and I went up to it......but no further damage. I retired again at 2 a.m. Then I got up at 6 a.m. Today was real pretty all day. Trade nice. Robert rode from town all the way home with me on Jerry. I had Jerry shod today. We were all down to Dr. Wheeler's tonight, playing Flinch.
Tue., May 5.
Gloomy and rain all morning. Trade somewhat quiet. I have been working on stock all day. I done some changing around of things at Store. Geo, Blanche, and little Alice, and Cyrena, all left this evening for the Indian Territory. Emma and I gave Robert a little red wagon for his birthday present on tomorrow. He will be three-years old. The Dr. and Miss Lou, Angie, Kate, also Mary and Luttie Haynie were here tonight to play Flinch.
Wed., May 6.
Little Robert is three-years old today. Emma and I gave him a wagon, and Angie gave him a little basket with two big oranges and candy in it. Dr. Wheeler gave him a dime. I worked over three of our showcases today. Trade was only fair. It was gloomy and not many in town. Emma, Robert, and I were over to Mr. and Mrs. L. W. Haynie's tonight, to play Flinch.
Thurs., May 7.
I was up at 6:15 a.m. It rained a little bit early this morning. Today, though, has been a very pretty day, and trade was very nice. We got in a lot of dry goods this eve. G. N. Jackson was elected as asst. cashier of the Bank this eve, in Geo.'s place. I gave Emma some pretty, large, pearl buttons, for her waist today.
Fri., May 8.
This has been a real pretty day all day, and trade was about all we could handle, $77 ($64 cash). Papa went out to Rettie's this eve....to stay with her awhile. I put up two curtain poles for Myn Burruss this a.m. We were down to Dr. Wheeler's this eve, playing Flinch.
Sat., May 9.
Today has not been a very busy day at all.....though we sold about $105. It began to rain a little today at noon, but it only lasted a few minutes. Emma took Anna Wilson out riding this eve. They brought me home to supper. I got a box of strawberries for Emma this eve. Emma mowed the front yard today.
Sun., May 10.
I didn't get up until 7 a.m. I attended Sunday School (Robert and I). Emma attended her Church. Robert, I, and Mary drove out to the new brick yards for awhile. We took dinner with Jesse and Lelia Wheeler. Bro. Davis was there also. We then drove down to the Sulphur Springs and came home by Davis'. Emma attended Church tonight and I kept Robert.
Mon., May 11.
Today has been, in part, a very gloomy day. Trade, though, was nice. We sold $88 today. This is Gussie Edmonds' birthday. I was up this eve and she gave me a big saucer of ice cream and a plate of cake. I sold her mother $70-worth of Brussell carpet (velvet) and ecru-lace curtains this eve. Emma and Robert were up to the Store this eve and came home with me.
Tue., May 12.
I got up at 6 a.m. and worked in the garden. Emma helped me put in two rows of peas and beans this a.m. I also put out one-dozen tomatoes and 29 cabbage plants. I made me a lot of new pea-sticks today. Emma and Sunnie cleaned the parlor and the parlor bedroom today. We put down new matting in both rooms (40-yards). I also got four white shades....two for the parlor and two for our room. We also got a new mantle drapery. Wib Burns gave Robert two great big books today, to cut out pictures.
Wed., May 13.
Up at 5:15 a.m. today. I fixed four rows of peas this a.m. and cut 1/2 of the grass in the front yard with the lawn mower. Emma and Sunnie Taylor cleaned the hall and our room today. Frank Jakes shook our carpets for us. Emma and Nora cut the other half of the yard this eve and I finished it this eve for them. I hurt my finger, too. I have been fixing a window display at the Store today......will finish it tomorrow.
Thurs., May 14.
Today has been a real pretty day....for a change! I finished my yard this a.m., but also outside of fence. Emma and Sunnie finished the house cleaning this eve. Lem went fishing this eve. Trade was very nice this afternoon, but dull this morning. I made a "sign's" window display this eve. I had Jerry clipped this eve.
Fri., May 15.
Today has been a real pretty day and trade nice all day long. Emma, Mary H., and Robert were down to Sulphur Springs this a.m. There were also out to Aunt Ruth's this eve, with Kate. Robert got a letter from Cyrena today, from Okla., I. T. Emma got one from Mary Weir. Rettie sent us a nice jar of cream this eve. Emma, Robert and I went down to Dr. Wheeler's to play Flinch tonight.
Sat., May 16.
Today has been a very pretty day and trade was fine all day. There is also a good trade tonight, $171 ($102 of it cash). It clouded up this eve and rained some. Uncle John took dinner with us today. Remember our scare in the buggy with "Jerry" in the back yard today at noon....about the bed.
Sun., May 17.
I was up at 7 a.m. and got our first lot of ice this a.m., from Bure, for this season (50-lbs). It has rained most all day long. It rained so hard this morning that I did not go to Sunday School. I spent all day at home. Emma dressed Robert up in pants this a.m. and I took him up to the Store with me. Everybody that passed stopped him! We took a long walk this eve.
Mon., May 18.
There was a hard rain this a.m. Trade today was fine all day long. I printed a big, long, sign for Syd Taylor this eve. Rettie, Lottie, and Ella Greenabaum, also Syd, Kate, and Angie were here tonight.
Tue., May 19.
We had .22-inch of rain last night.....though today has been real pretty all day. Trade was fine all day long. I did not get home tonight until 8 o'clock. Mrs. Hays took breakfast and dinner with us today. Papa also dined with us.
Wed., May 20.
Today has been somewhat cloudy. Trade, though, was very fair. I commenced getting a big lot of remnants out today, for our big Sale.....June 3, to June 13. Lem left for St. Louis this eve....it being our third trip this season. Miss Lou, Angie, and Kate were up tonight to play Flinch. Jobe put down Mrs. E's brussel carpets this eve.
Thurs., May 21.
John Hamner commenced work for us again this a.m.......for 3-weeks.
Fri., May 22.
I had Robert's hair clipped all over, for the first time, this eve.
Sat., May 23.
Lem got back from St. Louis this morning. We had 1.93" of rain this eve in about 1-hour-and-a-half.....also some hail and some hard wind.
Sun., May 24 to Wed., May 27.
(no entries)
Thurs., May 28.
John Hamner and I were out tonight until after 11 o'clock, signing and tagging the town for our "Great Red Ticket Sale" from June 3 - 13.
Fri., May 29.
Lem was out on F. R. D. #1 all day today, signing the roads for our Sale. I printed a big sign for the front of our Store this eve. Emma washed the buggy this morning and then she helped me work the garden tonight.
Sat., May 30.
It rained all day long. I was up at 5 a.m. and worked most all my garden over. Trade was quiet today.....very few in town. Cyrena came home this eve, having been away 24-days.
Sun., May 31.
It was dark and gloomy all day long......the longest and most lonesome day I ever spent. Mr. H. Mertens, Sr., was taken sick this a.m. and died within one hour. Emma, Robert, and I were down to Miss Lou's awhile this eve. Mrs. Hays and Mary Haynie were here awhile tonight.
JUNE
Mon., Jun. 1.
I worked at the Store tonight on the remnant business. The Missouri River is on a big boom. People are leaving the bottoms.
Tue., Jun. 2.
The River is getting higher, 3 1/2 " higher here now than it was in 1881. So many, so many people were down to the River all day, watching both it and all the people as they leave the bottoms.
Wed., Jun. 3.
I am 32 years old today. Rettie and Papa took dinner with me. We have had all we could handle at Store all day. Emma helped us out this eve. This is our first "Red Ticket Sale" day, a $226 day.
Thurs., Jun. 4.
Today was another good day at the Store, considering the River....$99.26. There are lots of people here today, to see the River. We went up to see the River from the schoolhouse this eve. [See the Miami News account of this flood at the end of this diary....MLD]
Fri., Jun. 5.
Today was real pretty.....actually NO rain! The River began to fall this a.m.....3 1/2". Emma and Robert were uptown and walked home with me this eve. Harry Myers went back home to Marshall this eve. Mary Haynie was here tonight and we played Flinch.
Sat., Jun. 6.
This has been the first really pretty day for weeks! We were busy all eve. Emma helped us this eve. We had a $117 day.
Sun., Jun. 7.
I was up at 6:45 a.m. Robert and I attended Sunday School, then Emma and I attended the M. E. Church. Newt and [his daughter] Floy, were over this a.m. Emma, Robert and I drove down to Mrs. C. G. Vaughan's this eve, to see the River. Mary Haynie and I, also Emma, walked down to the River this eve. Mrs. Haynie was here awhile tonight.
Mon., Jun. 8.
Jobe stayed at home this a.m., as his wife has been sick. John was out to the farm this eve, with his mother. We have been real busy all day. Emma, Robert, Mrs. Hays, Cyrena, Kate, Mary Grady, also Myn Burruss and Taylor all went down to "Bookers" after strawberries this eve. I helped Emma tonight, to cap two crates of strawberries.
Tue., Jun. 9.
I got up at 5 a.m. and took the buggy down to Mill Creek and gave it a good wash. Emma put up 44-pints (two crates) of fine strawberries today. Mary and Lewis were at Marshall today. I moved 1/2 of our yard this eve and cut the grass outside of the fence. Emma was at Church tonight to practice for Sunday.
Wed., Jun. 10.
I was up at 5 a.m. and worked in the garden. We were busy all day at the Store. I had Geo. Thomas (col'd) haul a load of nice sand for Robert to play in.
Thurs., Jun. 11.
I was up at 5 a.m. again and worked in the garden. I fixed little Robert a little well and put frames up for him to play sand-well with. He certainly has had a fine time with it...all day! Rettie sent us some fine ice-cream, by Mary, this eve.
Fri., Jun. 12.
I got up at 5 a.m. and finished my garden. I got it in fine shape. I also cleaned out the cellar, ridding it of water and mud. Lem and Mary went to Marshall this eve. They used our buggy. Emma and I took Anna and Geo. Wilson out driving in the trap this eve.
Sat., Jun. 13.
Tonight closed "Myers Bros. Red-Ticket-Sale." It was one of the biggest and most successful sales we ever had.....$1,509.44 (for the two weeks). Today was the largest sale for a Saturday that we ever had....$266 (mostly cash). We had a big trade up to 10 p.m. tonight. I am tired and worn out!
Sun., Jun. 14.
I got up at 7:45 a.m. Rettie and Jim called us up this a.m, to come out and spend the day.....so we went! We had a nice time and a fine dinner.....a very pleasant day. Emma and I attended the Children's Day exercise tonight.
Mon., Jun. 15.
We got a telegram this a.m., of George's (Wheeler) illness. We got the Store all straight today, to commence invoicing tomorrow. Dr. Wheeler left this eve.
Tue., Jun. 16.
I was up at 5 a.m. and washed the buggy and harness all off. We commenced our invoice this a.m. I printed two signs for the front of Store today. I put our name on the safe. I mowed the front yard this eve. Cyrena, Kate, and Mary were here tonight, playing Flinch.
Wed., Jun. 17
(no entry)
Thurs., Jun. 18.
Emma and I went to Marshall today. We took dinner with Newt and Mattie there. I had my eyes treated this eve. Coming home we got caught in a storm, just as we did before on a trip to Marshall. We stopped at Rettie's and spent the night.
Fri., Jun. 19.
We came in from Rettie's this morning and I stayed at home until noon and washed our buggy real good. I made 8 stakes for Rettie's sweet-peas this a.m. and fixed them for her.
Sat., Jun. 20.
Trade was dull today. Lem bought a lot of lumber today from a man who came down the River.....a lot of good, fine lumber that came out of the big flood at Kansas city. We sold 1/3 of it this eve.
Sun., Jun. 21.
Mama has been dead 18-years today. It rained so this a.m. that I didn't go to Sunday School. I spent the day at home. Mrs. Hays, Rettie, and Ella were here this eve. We went down to Miss Lou's for awhile tonight. Mary sent us some fine raspberry cream tonight.
Mon., Jun. 22.
(no entry)
Tue., Jun. 23.
Emma helped us invoice this eve. Jobe was at home, sick, all day.
Wed., Jun. 24.
Jobe still at home, sick. Emma helped us invoice this eve. We took a drive late this eve. Mrs. Hays, Cyrena, and us all played Flinch tonight.
Thurs., Jun. 25.
Jobe was still at home, sick, today. I was up at 5 a.m. and washed the buggy. Then I fixed the pea vines and cut some grass in the backyard. Papa dined with us today. Emma was up and finished invoicing the hamburgs for us this eve. It rained some little this eve. Trade was slow today. We finished invoicing the downstairs this eve. Mary Haynie was here awhile tonight. I kept Robert and she and Emma went down to Miss Lou's.
Fri., Jun. 26
(no entry)
Sat., Jun. 27.
I was up at 5 o'clock. I finished my back yard this a.m. We finished our invoicing today at 11:30 a.m. Trade was very, very quiet today. Emma got a check for $9.57 today, from the "Vaughan Estate." Her first.
Sun., Jun. 28.
I attended Sunday School, then went out to Rettie's this eve. Emma went to Church and I kept Robert tonight.
Mon., Jun. 29.
(no entry)
Tue., Jun. 30.
Mr. and Mrs. Haynie, Mary, Emma, and I, left for the "Discharge" this a.m., at 6 o'clock. None of us got a bite! We were back home at 11:30 a.m. We had a nice time, though. It is the first time we left Robert asleep in that way.
JULY
Wed., Jul. 1.
Dr. Wm Uty's Drug Store burnt tonight, at 10 p.m.
Thurs., Jul. 2.
Emma, Robert and I went to Marshall this a.m., at 5:45. I had my eyes fitted with glasses. We came back by Rettie's and took supper. Came home in the moonlight. Willie Cresap was over there.
Fri., Jul. 3.
It rained good this eve. Cyrena went to Excelsior Springs this eve. Katherine went last eve. Mrs. Hays, Mary Haynie, and us all played Flinch tonight until 10 o'clock. Mary H. and I won.
Sat., Jul. 4.
It rained most all morning. Trade was dull most all day. I commenced on a new hammock for Emma and I today. Emma, Robert, and I took supper at Miss Lou's. Emma took Robert up to Bro. Crockett's tonight to a little fireworks display. He enjoyed it very much. I brought him a lot of fire-crackers today, at dinner, and he, Nora, and Angie just had a good time all eve.
Sun., Jul. 5.
I was up at 6 a.m. I helped Emma and then we all attended Sunday School. Robert and I came home after S. S. and froze a freezer of cream. Bro. Davis and Mary Haynie were here for dinner. We spent the eve at home. We took a walk, late, just before Church. Robert and I were over to see Lewis for awhile tonight.
Mon., Jul. 6.
Nora quit us this morning for awhile, as she is not feeling well. Today has been hot all day. I worked on my hammock this eve. Emma, Robert and I drove out to Lemmon's grove this eve, to the little picnic that the Misses Sweeney and Webb had for their Sunday School classes. Myn and Frank, also Cyrena, were here tonight. Cyrena got home from Excelsior Springs.
Tue., Jul. 7.
I finished Emma's new hammock today. Emma, Robert and I, also Mamie Haynie, Dr. Wheeler and Angie, went fishing up to "the old Discharge" this eve. It was Robert's first time. We took our suppers....left at 4 p.m. and got home at 10 p.m. It was a lovely night. We caught a total of 8 fish....small.
Wed., Jul. 8.
Today has been a real hot day. Trade was dull. Cris Wright tore down our #2 and commenced on a new one for us. I kept Robert while Emma attended Church. Emma gave me a nice coat and vest today. It should have been here on June 3rd, but was delayed by the flood. It is so pretty and fits me to a dot.
Thurs., Jul. 9.
Hot of the hottest! It is 95-degrees in the shade. Emma and I, also Robert, drove out to Rettie's this eve and stayed until 11 o'clock. We took supper and had "lemon sherbet." It was fine and refreshing. A lovely, lovely night.
Fri., Jul. 10.
This is the hottest day so far.....97-degrees in shade. This was a dull, quiet day as to trade. Cris Wright finished our new #2 today, at noon. Lem, Mary and Lewis all drove over to Marshall this eve in Hightower's new surrey. Emma, Robert and I drove down to Sulphur Springs tonight. I made a nice hammock for Miss Lou today.
Sat., Jul. 11.
Today has sure been one dull, dull day. Very, very few in town! It rained some little this eve, late. I got home at 9 p.m. and we played Flinch at Dr. Wheeler's until 10:15 p.m. I got three games.
Sun., Jul. 12.
I was up at 6:30 a.m. I helped Emma. We bought ourselves a new 3-qt. freezer last eve, so we dedicated it this a.m. Little Robert went to the Christian Sunday School this a.m., with Angie. Emma also went, and I went to mine. Jas. Reynolds took dinner with us. He, Cyrena, and Mrs. Hays were here this eve. Emma, Robert and I took a drive, late. Emma went to Church tonight.
Mon., Jul. 13.
(no entry)
Tue., Jul. 14.
I was up at 4:45 a.m. and mowed our front yard. I have been feeling some pain all day, with my back. I took a drive this eve, up to Ish's and walked down to the River's edge ,after Emma, who had been there fishing all day. I took Robert with me.
Wed., Jul. 15.
Mary Haynie, Emma, Angie, Robert, Jobe Hanna, and self went fishing this eve and took our suppers, but we did not get a bite. Had a nice time, though. Little Robert enjoyed it...sure!
Thurs., Jul. 16.
Today was warm all day. I have not felt at all well. Trade was awful quiet....very few around. Mary H., Emma and I played Flinch until 10 p.m. We had a nice rain late this eve.
Fri., Jul. 17.
(no entry)
Sat., Jul. 18.
Lem was away all day, across the River.....hunting a coal man. Trade was very fair today....$74. Not many in town. I got home tonight at 11 p.m. I got a dog collar and a chain today for Robert to put on his "shepherd dog."
Sun., Jul. 19.
Miss Rena Bolton and Miss Maude Burns came this eve to pay us a visit. I worked with "Jerry" all day. He has been "water bounded" and I spent all eve down in Mill Lot with him, standing in water. Wm. Andrews came today to visit Lem and Mary.
Mon., Jul. 20.
We had an awful wind and lightning storm tonight.....also heavy hail and 1.25" of rain. Mary Haynie, Maude, Rena and Emma and I played Flinch tonight until after 10 p.m.
Tue., July 21.
Today has been a real pretty day. Trade very fair. Lem's man commenced on his coal mine today. Mrs. B. had a big card and game party tonight. We were not "in it."
Wed., July 22.
Rettie came in today and brought Alice Hudson and they spent the day with us. I gave Alice a nice white fan. Trade was very nice today. Lem commenced work on his coal mine today.
Thurs., July 23.
Miss Rena Bolton left us today and went around to Miss Anna Garnett's to stay awhile. Maude, though, is still with us. Mary Haynie, Emma and I played Flinch tonight and I did not get a game.
Fri., July 24.
Today was very pretty and trade was nice all day long. Lem and Mary entertained tonight, in honor of their company, Mr. Andrews. Emma, Robert and I put up signs tonight and went to Sulphur Springs.
Sat., July 25.
Today has sure been a dull one, though very pretty.
Sun., July 26.
I was up at 6 a.m. and helped Emma. We all attended Sunday School. Emma, Robert, Maude Burns, and I went across the River and spent the day with the Burruss'. We came back at 5:30 p.m. and drove down to Mrs. C. G. Vaughan's for supper. We had a pleasant day and eve and had lots of good things to eat.
Mon., July 27.
Emma, Robert and I drove out to Rettie's tonight and took supper. We got home at 10:30 p.m. I finished 106 cloth signs this morning, for "Myers Bros." (18" x 45")
Tue., July 28.
I posted the books up today, for Lem. I am going to draw off the balance sheet commencing tomorrow, if nothing happens. I took a drive tonight and posted signs.
Wed., July 29.
I mad a "balance sheet" book today, to draw off list of our accounts on. I also commenced on the accounts. Took a short drive this eve, after supper, but it was so awfully dusty.
Thurs., July 30.
(no entry)
Fri., July 31.
(no entry)
AUGUST
Sat., Aug. 1.
[There was no entry in the diary on this date, but the following article appeared in the Miami News: "A son was born to Mr. and Mrs. Lex McDaniel (Maude Wheeler), at Kansas City, Saturday, August 1, 1903. They have named him Kirk, after the wellknown citizen of that name at Gilliam, J. R. Kirk, a brother-in-law of the mother. The above intelligence was received in a telegram to grandfather, W. H. Wheeler, of this city, and he is all puffed up with pride!"]
Sun., Aug. 2.
Dr. Morris, at last, died this morning, at 8 a.m. Papa dined with us today. We went to Sulphur Springs this eve.
Mon., Aug. 3.
I got off 134 statements of our accounts today.....ready to mail.
Tue., Aug. 4.
Dr. Morris was buried at Bethel this a.m. Dr. Wheeler and Miss Lou used our buggy and horse. Robert got a little black dog this eve from Mrs. Gus Smith, near Slater, but he did not have it an hour before it got away.
Wed., Aug. 5.
Emma and I went out on a hunt, with Robert, to find his dog. But, we couldn't find him. But Miss Joy and Lulu Wheeler, also Annie Noonan, brought him in this eve. They found him caught up in a fence out at Haynie's. His name is "Ring." We had a hard windstorm tonight and lightning. We were down to Dr. Wheeler's a long while tonight.
Thurs., Aug. 6.
(no entry)
Fri., Aug. 7.
Emma, Robert and I went out to put up signs this a.m. We put up a big sign on Mrs. Akerman's barn this a.m. (21-feet long and 3-feet wide). Mary Haynie was over tonight and we played Flinch until 10:30 p.m. It was rainy and blowing hard so she spent the night with us also. Emma had a letter from Cyrena today.
Sat., Aug. 8.
The Rev. Ollie Davis' mother is at Miss Lou's for a little visit. We were down there awhile tonight and played Flinch. Very few in town today.....trade quiet, $56.
Sun., Aug. 9.
We all attended Sunday School and Emma attended her Church. Robert was not feeling very well this morning.
Mon., Aug. 10.
Emma, Robert and I went out to Rettie's this eve, to stay until Thursday eve. Got there at 5 p.m.
Tue., Aug. 11.
It was rainy and cold all day. We spent all day in the house.
Wed., Aug. 12.
We went to Marshall this a.m. and had Robert's photos tried again. We took a dozen this time. Then we got caught in a big rain and had to wait at Ming's Hotel. We got back to Rettie's at 5 p.m. "Old Jerry" got caught in a wire fence tonight at Jim's.
..............................................................................................................
At right is one of the photos of Robert W. Myers, taken August 12, 1903, at Marshall, MO, by Calvert. This was one of the "dresses" purchased by Emma on Mar. 3, 1903 (see diary entry).
..............................................................................................................
Thurs., Aug. 13.
We left Rettie's for home at 3:20 p.m. and got home at 4:45. We went to the Mill Creek to wash our buggy. Then I finished it up at home tonight with the chamois, and Robert ended it by putting the buggy whip in the cistern.
Fri., Aug. 14.
We got some fine ripe peaches off of our tree in the backyard today.
Sat., Aug. 15.
(no entry)
Sun., Aug. 16.
Robert attended Sunday School with Angie this a.m. Today was gloomy most all day and we spent the day at home.
Mon., Aug. 17.
(no entry)
Tue., Aug. 18.
(no entry)
Wed., Aug. 19.
The Misses Lucy Burruss and Willie Cresap spent the night with us and we played Flinch until 11:30 p.m. We had our first watermelon tonight. It was fine, too....I must say!
Thurs., Aug. 20.
The Presbyterians had a little picnic for the children this eve, at Mrs. Joe Wilson's. Emma made a freezer of cream and took Robert and Lewis out. I went out for supper. Papa put some wood guttering on our wood house today, at noon.
Fri., Aug. 21.
Emma put up one bushel and a half of fine peaches this eve. I got them for her from Mr. Mall's.
Sat., Aug. 22.
Very few in town today. Trade quiet. Lem was at the coal bank all day long.
Sun., Aug. 23.
I attended Sunday School. Bro. Thomas of Marshall, MO, preached for us this a.m., and p.m. Emma, Robert and I went out to Aunt Ruth's after Church and spent the balance of the day. Then we came home after supper. Mrs. J. W. Wheeler and baby spent the night with us.
Mon., Aug. 24.
(no entry)
Tue., Aug. 25.
Jobe and I commenced house cleaning this a.m. We had a little shower last night.
Wed., Aug. 26.
Jobe and I commenced house cleaning yesterday a.m. and we finished the downstairs this eve. We had the biggest rain we ever did have at any one time here for years....3.95" last night.
Thurs., Aug. 27.
There was a heavy rain again tonight, also wind and lightning. We were down to the Dr. Wheeler's. Emma, Kate and I went to the Methodist Supper tonight in all the storm. We got wringing wet, too!
Fri., Aug. 28.
Little Robert went with Angie up to the M. E. Church this a.m., to eat ice-cream.....as it rained so hard last night he did not get to go. He was at the Store a long while this a.m., and this eve also. We took him up this eve and had ice cream as he wanted it so bad.
Sat., Aug. 29.
Very few in town today. Trade quiet. Mrs. J. W. Hawkins brought Robert a cute little Maltese kitten today. The band played for the second time this eve. I got home at 9:30 p.m. We played Flinch for awhile with Emma, Miss Lou, and the Dr.
Sun., Aug. 30.
It was cool all day. We all attended Sunday School and Church. Bro. Barleir (?) preached for us today.
Mon., Aug. 31.
I left Miami at 9 a.m., for St. Louis.....my first trip there by myself. I took dinner at Moberly. I got into St. Louis at 6:30 p.m. I took the 18th Street car for the Wellington Hotel. I got lunch at "Moser." Then I took a stroll and wrote a letter to Emma. I retired at 10:30 p.m.
SEPTEMBER
Tue., Sept. 1.
I got up at 7 a.m. and got a shave and ate breakfast. I took a stroll to "Barr's." Then to Brown's and R. J. & Rand shoe houses, where I bought shoes. I got lunch, then went to E.& W. Dry Goods Co. Then to Hargadine McKittrick's... I bought dry goods there. I strolled again tonight and saw G. T. T. at Laclede. I retired at 10:30 p.m.
Wed., Sept. 2.
I was at Ely-Walker's all a.m. and at H. McK. Dry Goods Co. all p.m. I took a stroll tonight and had fresh oysters. I retired at 10:30 p.m. I wrote to Emma and Robert and also had a letter from both Emma and Lem.
Thurs., Sept. 3.
I was up at 6:30 a.m. I worked hard all day and got no dinner. I was at Hargadine's all day long. I bought neckwear at noon. I went to the Grand tonight. I got a letter from Emma and Robert this a.m. and I wrote them tonight.
Fri., Sept. 4.
I finished at Hargadine McK.'s. I bought hats and gloves, also clothing and jewelry novelties. I went to a show tonight and retired at 11:30 p.m.
Sat., Sept. 5.
I went to "Bry & Bry" this morning. Then I went to Butler Bros. for Xmas goods. I met Louise Miller on the street. I was out to the World's Fair Grounds all eve. I met Jim Long at Oak's Candy House and we went to the show at Olympia. Bed at midnight. Kate, Emma, and Robert went to Marshall today, to stay until Monday eve. They stopped at Mrs. Walker's, and took Robert to the Show, where he saw the animals and the funny clown.
Sun, Sept. 6.
I left St. Louis this a.m. at 9 o'clock. I got home at 5 o'clock.....awfully lonesome. Emma and Robert were at Marshall. I went up to Lem's awhile tonight and also down to Miss Lou's awhile, having walked home with Cyrena......ate ice-cream.
Mon., Sept. 7.
Jobe at show today. Emma and Robert at show also. I done some work today at Store. Emma, Robert, Cyrena and Kate did not get home tonight until 10 p.m.....in the storm. Dr. Wheeler bought Miss Lou a new buggy today, at Marshall.
Tue., Sept. 8.
I have done a whole lot of work and changing around at Store today. I fixed the mirror up....over the show case this eve. The Miami Public Schools opened today. I gave Emma two nice stock collars and a nice lace collar, Robert a tricycle, and Emma, Robert, Lewis and Angie, each, a box of nice candy....all from St. Louis.
Wed., Sept. 9.
I came home from the Store tonight at 10 o'clock.....sick as a horse!
Thurs., Sept. 10.
I was in bed with a fever all day. I had Dr. Wheeler come by this morning.
[Note: From Sept. 11th to Oct. 8th, there is this note in W. S. Myers' Events of a Lifetime......"This was the longest time I have been away from the Store in my life, 27-days. I was at home with "bilious fever," my first time with a Fever.]
Fri., Sept. 11.
(in bed with fever)
Sat., Sept. 12.
(in bed with fever)
Sun., Sept. 13.
(in bed with fever)
Mon., Sept. 14.
(in bed with fever)
Tue., Sept. 15.
(in bed with fever)
Wed., Sept. 16.
Sat up awhile today. My fever is going down. I ate a little toast for the first time in 6-days.
Thurs., Sept. 17.
Out of bed. Not much fever.
Fri., Sept. 18.
No fever today, but...O!..my head!!
Sat., Sept. 19.
Suffered all day with headache. Had little rest since midnight. Robert started up to the Store by himself today, and met cousin Lewis. Lewis took him up to the Store where he got the tricycle that I bought for him in St. Louis.
Sun., Sept. 20.
Feel better today, but awfully weak. Still have a good appetite.
Mon., Sept. 21.
Better....but weak.
Tue., Sept. 22.
I took a ride down in the bottoms this eve and then uptown and got a shave. Pretty warm out.
Wed., Sept. 23.
We spent today out at Aunt Ruth's. Still feel awfully weak.
Thurs., Sept. 24.
Cool....so stayed at home all eve. But, I was up to the Store awhile this morning. We took supper at Miss Lou's tonight and stayed awhile. I shaved myself for the first time this morning, with my new safety razor.
Fri., Sept. 25.
We went out to the "Coal Bank" this eve, and then drove out to see John Sibley's new house. I was up to the Store awhile this eve. Robert went up to the Store this morning, by himself, to get me the Miami News.
Sat., Sept. 26.
I thought I was going to the Store today, but it rained most all day so I spent the day at home. I took supper at Dr. Wheeler's and played Flinch. I shaved again with my safety razor and it is all "okay."
Sun., Sept. 27.
Emma and I went to her church this morning. I took a ride up to Mary's and saw them and Newt for awhile. And then we drove to Rettie's, but they were not at home. So we got some apples and got home by sunset.
Mon., Sept. 28.
I went to the Store this morning and spent half-a-day. I had to stay at home this eve because I had a fever of 101-degrees. I felt very weak and chilly all eve and my head hurt quite a good deal. Emma got her a blue "snowflake skirt" this morning.
Tue., Sept. 29.
I am feeling weak, so did not attempt the Store again today. I shaved for the 3rd time with my safety razor this morning and I like it fine. My highest fever was 105-degrees while I was real sick.
Wed., Sept. 30.
I had the worst spell with my head tonight at about 7 p.m., that I ever had before and I hope I never will have it again! I sent for Dr.Wheeler.
OCTOBER
Thurs., Oct. 1.
Today is the great "Fancy Work Day" at Mr. Taylor's. Emma was up awhile this eve. I have been so weak all day that I had to sit down most of the day. It was a lovely day.
Fri., Oct. 2.
I have felt better all day. Emma went uptown for me this eve. Papa was over to see me awhile this eve. It is so awful warm out.
Sat., Oct. 3.
I still awful weak and have little appetite. Emma had to change me four times last night, from my night sweats. They are awful. I was down to Dr. Wheeler's awhile tonight.
Sun., Oct. 4.
Emma attended her Church this a.m. and tonight, and heard the new preacher, "Rev. Comstock." They employed, or hired, him tonight for the 1st of Jan., 1904. He and Prof. Hitchborn, also Geo. Wilson, were over to see me this eve.....also Mrs. Scott. Angie stayed with Robert tonight. Emma had ice-cream for us today and fried chicken. It was good!!
Mon., Oct. 5.
Emma drove me out as far as Mr. L. W. Haynie's old farm this eve, and then to the Store for awhile. Mary Haynie and Cyrena were up tonight and we played Flinch. Angie was here and played with little Robert. Emma got a horn for Robert this eve.
Tue., Oct. 6.
It was dark and gloomy all day. It rained hard this eve. Mrs. Hays and Mary Haynie were over this eve and we played Flinch all eve. Papa was over for awhile this morning. Mary Haynie came over again tonight and we played Flinch until 10:10 p.m. I got five out of ten. We then had a hard storm so Mary stayed all night.
Wed., Oct. 7.
My night sweats were so bad last night that I again had to change four times in the night. This morning I cut out a good many Miami News items. Emma took me uptown this eve and I spent the eve there.
Thurs., Oct. 8.
I went over to Mrs. Greenabaum's this morning and put up a package for her. I spent today uptown, my first day for a month. Mary and Lewis, also Mary Haynie, were over tonight and we played Flinch until 9:30 p.m.
Fri., Oct. 9.
I was up to the Store again today. I had very little "night sweats" last night. Robert went out to Aunt Ruth's with Cyrena this eve, and lost his little white cap. Cyrena, Katherine, Angie, and Bettie Reynolds were here for awhile tonight.
Sat., Oct. 10.
A big crowd of school boys and girls went to Columbia this a.m. Today has been lovely. I was at the Store all day, up to 6:30 p.m. We had a very nice trade today. Mary Haynie was over tonight and we played Flinch until 9 o'clock. William Ryan's house burnt this afternoon. It was insured for $400.
Sun., Oct. 11.
Emma, Robert and I attended Sunday School and I got chilled good. Papa took dinner with us, also Lewis. Lem and Mary were out to Rettie and Jim's today. No preaching in town today. Emma, Robert and I drove down to Mrs. J. W. Hawkin's this afternoon, our first time. We got cider, apples, celery and butterbeans. We got home at sunset. Roads very rough.
Mon., Oct. 12.
I went to the Store at 8:30 a.m. and felt pretty good. Trade was nice all morning, and heavy this eve.....all we could handle....a $99 day. I sold Mrs. W. H. Nichols forty-two yards of carpet at 60-cents a yd. I got home at dark, feeling tired, cold and weak.
Tue., Oct. 13.
I was at home, sick, again today. I felt so awful I didn't go to the Store. Papa was here this eve, also Dr. Wheeler.
Wed., Oct. 14.
At home sick, but sitting up most of the day. Mr. Peterman was here awhile this eve. Also Mary Haynie came over and spent the eve. Emma had some good oyster soup for dinner. Miss Lou and the Dr. were here awhile this eve. Forest McDaniel and Bess Taylor were married today.
Thurs., Oct. 15.
At home sick. Today was gloomy most all day. Mary Haynie and Mary Myers were over this eve and played Flinch with me. Emma went to the Store this eve, as Lem had to go to Marshall. Myn and Frank Burruss, John Haynie, also Raymond Edmonds and John Burruss....all went camping until Sat. eve.
Fri., Oct. 16.
At home sick. A very pretty day. Miss Lou and the children spent today out to J. C. Reynolds', so Dr. Wheeler took dinner with us. We played Flinch 1- 1/2 hours before dinner, then Emma, Mrs. Greenabaum, the Dr. and myself played Flinch until 5:30 p.m. Emma and I washed all the dishes after supper.
Sat., Oct. 17.
At home sick. Windy, cool, though pretty. Mr. Lyon's sow is now hauling the balance of my 12 cords of wood that I got from Mrs. Hamner. Emma went to the Store this afternoon and took my place again. Mr. Peterman was here this afternoon. The "campers" got home at noon.
Sun., Oct. 18.
Emma attended her Sunday School and Church this morning. I stayed at home and kept little Robert. Lewis was over for awhile. It was a lovely day, though only 34-degrees this a.m. Emma, Robert and I called on Mr. and Mrs. L. W. Haynie and Mary, also down to Dr. A. A. Wheeler's this eve. Prof. Barnett and wife called on us. Dr. Wheeler and Miss Lou and Angie were up tonight and we picked out a watch for Kate.
Mon., Oct. 19.
Emma took me up to the Store this a.m and I spent the whole day. I feel very good tonight, though a little tired and weak. Lem went to St. Louis tonight. Mr. Lyons finished bringing my wood to me.
Tue., Oct. 20.
Today was real pretty, though trade was awful dull. Mr. Jake Burns moved into the Edmonds' new brick building today and they took his old store down.
Wed., Oct. 21.
Today was real pretty and warm. Papa took dinner with us. Mary went to Marshall this a.m., to attend the big Baptist Convention being held there. So, with Lem in St. Louis, Lewis spent the night with us.....his first time. We played Flinch.
Thurs., Oct. 22.
Today has been cool, but pretty.....though dusty. Trade nice. Emma was up to the Store this eve and worked on the books for us. Mary got home from Marshall this eve, late. Papa dined with us. We were down to Miss Lou's tonight awhile. F. McB. and wife are at Kansas City tonight.
Fri., Oct. 23.
Miss Lou and Lelia May went to Arrow Rock this morning. Today has been a lovely day and trade very fair. Lem got home from St. Louis this a.m. and brought the cloaks with him. He also brought Robert a box of candy.
Sat., Oct. 24.
Today was real pretty all day, though very dusty. Trade only fair....not very rushing. Emma helped us awhile this eve. I stayed at the Store until 6:45 p.m., then went home to stay. After supper we went down to Dr. Wheeler's and played Flinch until 9:30 p.m.
Sun., Oct. 25.
I got up at 6 a.m. and helped Emma. Then I shaved and got ready for Sunday School, which we all attended. Then we drove out to see Mr. and Mrs. James Long, where we spent such a nice day and got a fine dinner. It was a lovely day and we got home at 6 p.m. We had supper and I kept Robert, who was asleep. Emma attended her preaching. Newt and Mattie were over today.
Mon., Oct. 26.
Today was real pretty, but very cool and dusty. Trade was $112 today. Joe McBride and Jno. Hawkins commenced on my wood pile today.
Tue., Oct. 27.
Today was pretty all day. Trade was very nice all day. Dr. Wheeler and Papa took dinner with us today. Miss Lou and Lelia May got home this eve from Arrow Rock. Dr. Wheeler bought Angie a cloak this a.m. I made some display racks for shawls and facinators this eve.
Wed., Oct. 28.
(no entry)
Thurs., Oct. 29.
The dust today.....O! My! It was awful. Trade was real nice, though, all day.
Fri., Oct. 30.
This a.m. was pretty and dusty, but this afternoon was partly cloudy with rain, late. Trade was fine all evening. John H. and Joe McB. finished cutting and putting away my wood this eve....6-1/2 cords. I worked until 7:30 p.m., the first night I have worked since getting sick. Emma got good and wet unhitching the buggy this eve.
Sat., Oct. 31.
Today has been partly gloomy. Trade was slow this a.m., but fine all eve.....$222 today. This month's expense with me has been the heaviest since I have been in business. I got home tonight at 9:45 p.m. Nora brought Robert up to the Store this morning and I bought him his first ready-to-wear overcoat, a blue medium shade, with a black velvet collar and belt. There was a Halloween Party tonight at Dunlap's Hall.
NOVEMBER
Sun., Nov. 1.
I was up and helped Emma at 6 a.m. We all went to Sunday School. Emma attended Church and I kept Robert. Papa took dinner with us today. Mrs. Levitt (Myn Gray) came to visit Mary last eve. I commenced quinine again at 12:15 p.m., as I feel pretty bad. Cyrena was here awhile this eve. It was gloomy most all day.
Mon., Nov. 2.
I was not feeling very good this a.m., so I did not go to the Store this morning......nor did I go this evening. Papa took dinner with us again today. He rode "Jerry" over to Rettie's this eve, to stay a few days.
Tue., Nov. 3.
I went to the Store this morning. Jobe went out home today, to see his sister married. It rained some this a.m. Cyrena and Kate were up tonight and we played Flinch.
Wed., Nov. 4.
It rained last night and this morning. Trade was only fair today. I changed a window display this eve. I brought little Robert an orange at noon, and bananas at supper. I sold Cyrena and Katherine a fine fur, each, this a.m. One for $11.50 and one for 13.00 = $24.50. We were down to Dr. Wheeler's tonight, to play Flinch.
Thurs., Nov. 5.
Today has been partly gloomy, though trade was very nice.
Fri., Nov. 6.
Papa stayed all night with us tonight. We all went to the Show at Dunlap's Hall...."Polk Miller." It was fine. We took Robert with us for the first time. He acted nice, but went to sleep.
Sat., Nov. 7.
Today has been a real pretty day. Trade was fair all morning, but this eve we had all we could handle. I did not get home tonight until 9:30 p.m. Little Robert was up to the Store this a.m., with Angie, and got a blue cap to go with his little overcoat.
Sun., Nov. 8.
I got up at 6 a.m. and helped Emma with the work and we all went to our Sunday School. It was a nice, pretty, warm day. Emma attended Church both morning and evening. I kept Robert. We took a walk down to the graveyard this eve. Angie was here tonight.
Mon., Nov. 9.
Today has been very pretty. I came home at 12-sharp and we had dinner. Then I helped Emma and she left for Kansas City at 2 o'clock, to visit Mrs. M. L. Burns (she and Cyrena went). They will also hear "Melba" sing. Emma will be home on Friday. Little Robert and I will stay with Miss Lou.
Tue., Nov. 10.
The "Methodist Children" of the Missionary Society gave a big Flower Show tonight, at Dunlap's Hall. Robert and I took aunt Kate, cousin Magg, and grandma Lou to the Show. We got home at 9 p.m. and played Flinch awhile. I retired at 10 p.m.
Wed., Nov. 11.
Robert and I took Aunt Kate to the Show tonight, at Dunlap's Hall....."Lindsey's Musical Comedy Co." The free dog jumping show, outside, was good, but the other show was poor. Remember our time getting Robert home and asleep!
Thurs., Nov. 12.
Katherine and I played Flinch with Miss Lou and the Dr. tonight, and we only got one out of five.
Fri., Nov. 13.
Emma got home today, at 11 o'clock, from Kansas City, having spent 4-days there. Robert and I got along nicely at Miss Lou's, though, of course, it was awful lonesome. It was the first time Emma ever left Robert for a few days. She got to hear "Melba" sing.
Sat., Nov. 14.
Today has been a lovely day. Trade $154. There was a big North & South Railroad Meeting this eve. They raised $6,100 of the $15,000 this eve. I got home at 9 p.m. We played two games of Flinch down at Dr. Wheeler's before coming home tonight.
Sun., Nov. 15.
I was up at 6:30 a.m. I helped Emma with her work and we all attended Sunday School. Robert went with Angie. Neither of us attended Church. It was dark, cool, and gloomy all day. We took a walk up to the Store this eve, then spent tonight at home.
Mon., Nov. 16.
Today has been, in part, somewhat gloomy. Trade was only fair. I worked on the glove dept. some today. I went home with Emma and little Robert at 6:30 p.m.
Tue., Nov. 17.
I went to the Store this a.m., though I was not feeling well at all. I worked awhile on the glove dept. then came home at noon and stayed the balance of the day. Emma went up to the Store this eve and worked for me. Then Emma took Katherine to the Show tonight at Dunlap's Hall and I kept little Robert.
Wed., Nov. 18.
I was at home all day today. I am suffering with my back. Emma put two "Alcock's Plasters" on my back this morning. We spent the day together at home today. They found Joe McBride (col'd) dead this eve, at 5 o'clock, in Dr. Grady's stable. It is said he was dead-drunk. He was the one who cut our wood for us this winter. Uncle Webb, who also cut our wood last winter, died soon afterwards. Isn't this strange?
Thurs., Nov. 19.
I was at home this morning. It was a lovely morning, but cold. I went up to the Store this eve and stayed awhile while Lem went out to the coal bank. I came home early.
Fri., Nov. 20.
I was at the Store all day and worked on the books for Lem. I sent Robert's photo to the Ladies Home Journal this eve, as per their request. I came home early. It is cold tonight and I have a dreadful cold, too.....I tell you!
Sat., Nov. 21.
Today was partly gloomy and trade was only fair. I came home tonight at 5:30 p.m. John Hamner went to work for us this a.m., until Christmas. It looks as if it will snow tonight.
Sun., Nov. 22.
I was up at 6:50 a.m., as I was not feeling well. Emma got up and done my work. I have not felt well today at all.....laying around all day. Lem and Mary were here awhile this eve. Elbert and Hallie were also here this eve for awhile and ate lunch with us tonight. Emma did not go to Church tonight, but stayed with Robert and me.
Mon., Nov. 23.
Emma done my work for me again this a.m. I did not go to the Store this morning. I did go up to the Store this eve and helped clean out both of the windows for our "Thanksgiving Sale," which is tomorrow and the next day. First time we have ever had a "two-day-sale."
Tue., Nov. 24.
Felt fine this a.m. I went to the Store at 8:30 a.m. We got so busy that I phoned for Emma and she got Aunt Courtney to come and get dinner for us, then Emma helped us the balance of the day. Papa kept Robert for us this eve. Trade was fine all day.....$354. Lem made me come home at 6:30 p.m. We had fried oysters tonight.
Wed., Nov. 25.
Another pretty day, and I feel good! Emma and I went to the Store early and were kept busy all day. Emma, Robert and I took dinner at Mary's, though I did not get to go until 2:45 p.m. O!...That good soup and hot biscuits! I was so tired and hungry you don't know how good it was to Wib!! We sold $447 today. These two days were our largest ever "Thanksgiving Sale."
Thurs., Nov. 26.
THANKSGIVING DAY!
I was at the Store awhile this a.m. and this eve. We took dinner down to Miss Lou's today, and, I must say....it was about as good a dinner as I ever sat down to. I was so hungry and everything tasted so good. We played Flinch awhile, before and after dinner.
Fri., Nov. 27.
I went up to the Store this a.m. and felt fine, but at about 10 o'clock I began to get sick, so I came home at noon and went to bed. I had a fever of 103-degrees. Mary Myers was here awhile this eve. Also Mary H., Cyrena, Kate and Angie.....and Dr. Wheeler.
Sat., Nov. 28.
I was so weak and sick this morning that I remained home all day. Mary Haynie, Emma and I played Flinch awhile this a.m., then again this eve. Miss Lou joined us. Also Ethel Hanna was here awhile tonight. Cyrena and Kate were here this eve, and Myn Burruss this a.m. I suffered a long while tonight, then the pains eased and I went to sleep at 10 p.m.
Sun., Nov. 29.
I felt so weak this a.m. that I did not get up until 8 o'clock. Emma did my work, then she and Robert attended Sunday School and I cleaned up the dishes for her. It was gloomy and windy this morning. Kate was here all eve with us and she and Emma went uptown late this eve and got me a can of fresh oysters and Cyrena came up and we all had fried oysters for supper. Emma attended the Young People's Christian Endeavor this eve at 6 o'clock, that was organized last Sunday eve. Miss Lou sent us a fine cream pie for our dinner. There was a trace of snow this eve.
Mon., Nov. 30.
I had intended to go to the Store this a.m., but between Papa and Dr. Wheeler coming in, they made me stay at home.
DECEMBER
Tue., Dec. 1.
I went to the Store this morning. I felt much better and I worked on the books all day. I came home early. Remember "the crowd" that went down to Jim and Susie Vaughan's tonight, and what a good time we all had. It was a "masked crowd."
Wed., Dec. 2.
I was at the Store again today and feel all okay. I spent the day mostly in changing things around and I finished curtaining our back porch today, at noon.
Thurs., Dec. 3.
Mag Woodson, Cyrena, Kate, also Mary Haynie, were here tonight. They made candy and we played Flinch to a finish! Today was pretty, but cold. Rettie and Jim had a little boy who arrived yesterday.
Fri., Dec. 4.
Cold and windy. I didn't get up until 7 a.m. I went through our Xmas goods today and ordered a few more this eve. We dressed Robert up this eve in a little suit and waist and he wore it down to Grandma's tonight. Miss Lou gave us a big plate of good sausage this eve.
Sat., Dec. 5.
I was at the Store this morning at 8 a.m. Today was real pretty, but cold. Trade, though, was very brisk...$90. Emma and Robert were up and came home with me at 6 o'clock. Mary Haynie was over tonight and we played Flinch for awhile.
Sun., Dec. 6.
I was up at 7 o'clock. I did not go to Sunday School, but let Emma and Robert go and I done the work for Emma. It was a lovely morning. Emma, Robert and I drove out to Rettie's this eve, to see the new little boy...."Jackson Harry Long." [note: The actual name was "George Jackson Long," as we will see later....MLD]
Mon., Dec. 7.
The "Woodmen" had a big Oyster Supper tonight in the old Brown Building. A big crowd attended. Kate and Angie took supper with us tonight and stayed and played Flinch with us until the rest of the family came home. Remember the Dr. getting in a "stew" as to Nee's "beau" ...and I had to take Katherine home for awhile to stay with Nee. [NOTE: Because little Robert couldn't say "Cyrena" he called her "Aunt Nee," thus she is often called "Nee" through the rest of the diaries......MLD]
Tue., Dec. 8.
I was at the Store all day marking and putting away new goods. Trade was dull. Mary H. was here tonight and we played Flinch until 9 p.m.
Wed., Dec. 9.
Today was cold and snowy. I commenced changing things around at the Store today, for Christmas goods.
Mary Haynie was over awhile tonight. They found "Col. William Redd" (col'd.) dead in bed this a.m.
Thurs., Dec. 10.
Today was gloomy all day. Trade was not very brisk. Papa was over for dinner and fixed our writing shelf. It snowed fast most all eve. Remember the "Jerry hunt" tonight and Emma's scare. Kate, Nee, and Angie were up tonight and we played Flinch and Muggins.
Fri., Dec. 11.
Today was pretty , but cold. There is a good snow on the ground. We finished putting out our Xmas goods this eve. Emma was up and helped me out. Col. Redd (col'd) was buried this evening at 2:30 o'clock.
Sat., Dec. 12.
Mr. Jim Hisle took "Jerry" out to Jim Long's for me this a.m., to spend the winter. Rain, snow, and sleet.....wind and cold....all day long. The temperature dropped 10-degrees in 7 hours-and-a-half today. There was hardly any trade. John and I fixed a hdkf's rack at the Store today, in the center....octagon shape. Emma and Robert up tonight and came home with me. Dr. Wheeler up tonight and played Flinch until 10 p.m.
Sun., Dec. 13.
Today has been very pretty, but ...O!...My!...how cold! It was 3-degrees below zero this morning. I stayed in the house all day. Emma went to Sunday School and Church and I done her work for her. Robert was not well. He was at home all day. He wore his little new suit and new shirt-waist that Emma has just finished for the first time today, at noon, for awhile. Katherine was here awhile tonight and went to Endeavor and Church with Emma. Robert went to sleep and I spent the night, writing, at home.
Mon., Dec. 14.
Today was sure cold. Trade was only medium. I spent today fixing things at the Store and came home early. The Missouri River blocked here late this eve.
Tue., Dec. 15.
Today was real pretty, but still very cold. Trade slow....not many in town. Lem phoned us early this morning....of Mr. Hiram T. Hudson's marriage on last Thurs., at St. Louis, to a widow, Mrs. Hiens (sp?). Dr. Wheeler, Miss Lou, Angie, and Mary Haynie were here tonight and we played Flinch and Muggins until 10 p.m. Jesse Wheeler gave me a nice 1904 pad-calendar today.
Wed., Dec. 16.
John went out to the farm today. We got in the balance of our Christmas goods today. Trade nice. Mary was out to Rettie's today. Papa dined with us today and I sold him a suit this eve.
Thurs., Dec. 17.
Today has been real pretty and nice. Lem was out to the coal mine all day today. I didn't feel at all well this eve so Ben Reynolds brought me home in his buggy this eve. We got everything in good shape now for Christmas. Robert and Emma were uptown this eve.
Fri., Dec. 18.
Partly gloomy. I fixed 10-sticks and banners for the Baptist Christmas Tree, with the word "Santa Claus" on them. They are for the musical entertainment at Bob Dunlap's Hall tonight. Emma took Lewis and I stayed at home with Robert. We bought Robert his first suit today....$3.50.
Sat., Dec. 19.
They moved the old Post Office from the Bank Building, which has been there for years and years past, to the Edmond's new Store tonight. It was gloomy all day....sleet and rain. Trade was very, very dull. It was so bad out that very few got in today.
Sun., Dec. 20.
I was up at 6:30 a.m. and helped Emma. We all attended Sunday School, but did not go to Church. It was real pretty all morning. Emma and I attended the "Young People's Meeting" tonight and then attended the Church service at the Baptist Church. Robert stayed with Angie tonight.
Mon., Dec. 21.
I was at the Store all day, though not feeling at all well. I went down to Dr. Wheeler's for awhile tonight.
Tue., Dec. 22.
At Store all day. It was very pretty out and trade was nice. I got home at 6:15 p.m. Dr. Wheeler was here tonight and we played Flinch until 10:15 p.m.
Wed., Dec. 23.
Gloomy and raining most all day. Trade only fair. I brought some fresh oysters home tonight for supper. O!...they were fine!
Thurs., Dec. 24.
Christmas Eve! It was real pretty all day, but the roads are pretty muddy. Trade was about $160....not near as good as last Xmas eve. The Baptist's and the Presbyterians, together, had a "Christmas Tree" tonight. Robert and Emma attended. Emma got a plate from her school class. Robert got a "top" from Mary Haynie, and a sack of candy and an orange from the Sunday School.
Fri., Dec. 25.
"Christmas Morning." Dark, gloomy and cold....but no snow! This was Robert's first "real Christmas." O!...the things.....the things.....he did get! Too many entirely! He wore his first real own new suit uptown with me this a.m., that Uncle Lem and Aunt Mary gave him. (I took his other suit back that we got him last week). We took dinner at the Dr.'s. I stayed there all eve, until 12 p.m., as Emma went to the "Young Girls Party" at Mrs. M. F. Bates. Here is a list of Robert's presents: an automobile, a big silver drum, some whirling dogs, a book and a watch from Angie, a dog whistle, a bass horn, oranges and a bucket of candy, and a $1 bill from his Grandpa Myers.
Sat., Dec. 26.
Today was real pretty. Trade, though, was awful as the roads are just almost impassable. Very rough. Emma and Robert were up this eve, so we went home early. Rettie sent us in such a nice box. We all were certainly blessed this Christmas.
Sun., Dec. 27.
I was up at 6:30 a.m. and helped Emma. We all attended Sunday School. I went over to see Papa for awhile, then Robert came. Then we went on a social call and had a fine dinner with Dr. Wheeler's family, at Jesse and Leila Wheeler's today. We had Robert and Pauline's photo taken. Then we called on Lem and Mary and also Papa again. Then home. Emma attended Church tonight and Angie stayed with us. Robert wore his new suit today for the first time, that Lem and Mary gave him for Christmas.
Mon., Dec. 28.
I didn't go to the Store this a.m., but stayed at home and helped Emma. We attended Annie Woods' wedding at her home this a.m. Emma had the "Fancy Work Club" to meet here this afternoon. They decided to have a party here on the night of the 31st. Cyrena, Kate, Emma, Robert and I went around to Miss Mary Haynie's tonight.
Tue., Dec. 29.
Very pretty, but cold. I worked on my Sunday School Book all day. John and Jobe took down our decorations this eve. There was a "candy pull" out at S. O. Grady's tonight. Emma and Robert were uptown and came home with me tonight, at 5:25.
Wed., Dec. 30.
Today has been a very fair day.....warm! I made me a new weather book today, for 1904. Emma, Robert and I were at Miss Lou's tonight. We played Flinch until 10 p.m. Dr. Wheeler carried Robert home, asleep. Cyrena and Kate were at Mr. Al Ayers tonight.
Thurs., Dec. 31.
The Fancy Work Club entertained here tonight.....24 present. It was a lovely night.....a nice time and a nice supper. We retired at 1:30 a.m. Remember Dr. Wheeler's horse & buggy exchange tonight. This is the last of 1903!
END OF 1903
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ADDENDA
CHRISTMAS 1903.....List of presents given us and each other
Emma, to Wib......a suit and a basket of oranges
Wib, to Emma.....a brown hat and a box of candy
Robert, to mother...a pie knife
Robert, to father...a perfume bottle
FROM OTHERS... TO EMMA AND I
Miss Lou to Emma........a book
Cyrena and Kate to Emma....fancy apron
Angie to Emma......coffee plate
Lelia to Emma....a pin cushion
Kate to Wib.....stock cards
Miss Lou to Wib.....chix and pie
Mary Myers to Emma......fancy apron
Mary Myers to Wib......a traveling case
Rettie to Emma......a fancy plate
Mary Weir to Emma.....doilie
Mrs. Hopkins to Emma......two pictures
Lem to Emma, Wib and Robert.....oranges and nuts
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From the Miami News of June 5,1903...
WORST OVERFLOW IN YEARS
The worst overflow in sixty years is now raging over the flood plain of the Missouri River. The bottoms, above and below Miami, and those of Carroll County on the opposite side are almost entirely submerged.
At 4:00 p.m., Tuesday, the water was 17-inches below the highest stage in 1881, from measurements by Mr. Isaac Myers who marked the height of the flood in that year. At 7:30 a.m., Wednesday, the water was 3-inches above the highest in 1881, and at 9:00 a.m., it was 4-inches above.
At 4:00 p.m. it was 10-inches full above the mark of 1881 and rising more slowly than for several days. The rate was less than an inch an hour. At 8:00 p.m. the water had risen two inches more. At 7:00 a.m., Thursday, the water was 14-inches full above 1881, but apparently at a stand. The rise was only about two inches during the night. At 1:00 p.m., the gauge was 15-inches above 1881 and the water was at a stand.
The people from the bottoms have taken refuge on the bluffs at hospitable farm houses and in the homes of Miami. No fatalities are known in Saline County, but William Lybarger and wife are thought to have drowned in Carroll County. This report has not been verified.
The loss of property is immeasurable. A greater part of the live stock was removed to places of safety,but many hogs are lost. Hundred of acres of growing wheat and corn are ruined, and houses and corn in cribs badly damaged.
There are a few places in the low lands where the water has not entered the houses. The door yard of J. F. Burruss, opposite Miami, is still above water. There are probably a few residences in the lower bottom that are still dry, and possibly one or two just below Laynesville.
The gasoline ferry boat, operated by Messrs. Bedgood, has done effective work in removing families, household goods, and livestock. On Tuesday this boat became unmanageable and went over the dyke opposite town. No damage was done and the boat was soon in operation again. A gasoline famine is feared and the town has been canvassed to find enough to supply the boat. A tank arrived from Slater, Wednesday.
The boat reached G. N. Hill's residence barely in time to save his stock, Wednesday afternoon. The water was on the backs of his horses and cattle. His hogs were lost, as were several hundred others on the Carroll County island. Later in the evening, George Hopkins' goods were brought down from the upper bottom. Thursday morning the boat went down the river and brought a load of hogs owned by Robert Chilcott, Charley Wheeler, and others. There were a number of hogs that they couldn't reach.
A dispensation was secured by wire from the government inspectors at St. Louis, Tuesday, to take out the steamer, Castalia,which has been lying at the wharf for some weeks. Capt. A. K. Ruxton agreed to act as pilot, and John F. Webb as engineer. It was impossible to get up steam until so near night that the effort was abandoned.
Matt Rader, Dean Harper and George Walden came to Miami from the Station in a skiff, Wednesday morning. Water was 8-inches deep in the Wabash Depot. The only signs of railroad tracks are the telegraph poles and the ends of ties where the railroad embankment has washed away and ended them up. In the stores at Miami Station the water had reached the top of the counters. There have been no trains on the Wabash since Monday at 11 p.m.
Hundreds of people have thronged the river bluffs this week and watched the progress of the flood. Such a view is rarely presented in a lifetime. On the levee the water is well up between the brick warehouses and abreast of the old well. Wednesday morning it was about a foot below the government bench mark at the corner of the mill warehouse.
A meeting of citizens was held at Bishop's Hall Tuesday afternoon to provide relief for the people of the neighborhood who are suffering from the overflow. Dr. A. A. Wheeler presided. Lists were placed at the stores of G. T. Taylor, Roe & Casebolt, Davis & McDaniel, and Ayres Bros., where people could register who had room for refugees in their homes. A committee consisting of Rev. W. H. Crum, G. T. Taylor, J. D. Snelling, C. V. Davis, and J. H. Hooper was appointed to look after the relief work. All who desire to aid in this commendable work should apply to this committee.
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