Beaufort, S. C.

Oct. 1, 1943

Have been here [at Bell  (Sissie) Lawton's, who by that time was blind and alone following Mary Lawton's death] off and on since Aug. 8.  I can't say I like it, [but] what can I do?  It would never do to leave Sissie in the lurch.  I think Rivers is put out with me for staying with Sissie; he and Eleanor do not bother much with us.  It looks like Anne is also put out with me.  She went to college on Sept. 8 and has not written me a line.  Annie came for a few days visit the 21st of Sept.

 

Beaufort, S. C.

Oct. 2, 1943

Looks like rain today.  I will be glad to see Hazel and Jane when they come this eve.  Eleanor has not been to see me since I came from Frogmore. 

 

Oct. 3, 1943

I went to church.  We had communion.  Mr. Lockhart was the rector.  Quite a good congregation.  Hazel took us to her home to spend the day.  LeRoy was sweet and drove us all around the outside of Beaufort.

 

Beaufort, S. C.

Oct. 4, 1943

Madie came in, brought the ______ also Mrs. Marscher and Mrs. Gus Sanders.  Dr. Elliott was buried at 5o'clock P.M.

 

Beaufort, S. C.

Oct. 5, 1943

No rain and so cold.  I did not sleep well last night.  Missed my feather quilt.  Must try to go down town.

 

Sunday, Oct. 10, 1943

Corporal Petterson and his wife left the house yesterday.  She went to N.J.; he will be going either to New River or California Coast.  Sissie went with Mrs. Hull and Madie to see Mrs. Montgomery on Ladies Island.  We expect to go to the Island to dine with Hazel.

 

Oct. 12

I went to the P. O. to mail a letter to John; then on to Eleanor's to get some eggs.  E. brought me home.  After resting I went on to Madie's to get the paper.  Saw Mrs. Raney.  We had a coal fire in the evening.  Had a letter from Anne.

 

13 Oct.

No rain yet.  I see two clouds out in the west; perhaps they will bring rain.  I am hoping Jane will come this afternoon.  Charlotte Fripp came to see me yesterday; tells me her daughter has followed her husband out to California.

 

14th Oct.

My sister is a funny lady.  Gets me all upset about saving a little sugar, then tries to make it up by giving Hazel things; says she will give her the ice cream spoons but bet she will forget.  O God give me patience to hold out.  The Pats came last night; even brought the dog.

 

 

Oct. 15

 

Rivers came in while we were eating breakfast.  He was to do a little business for Sissie.  Just before dinner Mrs. Stuart and Mrs. Bristol paid a visit.  It is hot today.

 

 

Oct. 17

It turned cold last night.  In fact the North-west started blowing yesterday morning.  I hear there was frost.  We were to go have dinner with E. and R. but their oil heater would not work.  Consequently, the house was too cold for us.  I think they ate in the kitchen.  Sissie went to church.  I had to cook chicken and okra.  Went down town with Hazel; did some shopping for the house.  The sun shines hot, but no sign of rain.  The beans will be ruined.

 

Oct. 19 [,1943]

Sissie went with Eleanor and had her hair clipped yesterday.  Mrs. Kirkland paid us a visit, also did Mrs. Marscher and Amy.  Not so cold this morning.

 

22 Oct. [,1943]

This is a warm day.  The sun feels as hot as summer.  I had a warm bath after dinner, laid in the sun on the upstairs porch, went to sleep; when I woke up, I was sweating.  I don't know whether to go to Hazel's tomorrow night or not.

 

Oct. 23 [,1943]

Three months since Mary died.  Sissie seems to be getting on very well; she looks much better.  We heard from Annie today.  She seems to worry about our eating.

 

Oct. 30 [,1943]

Saturday and Hazel will not be able to get here until 4 P.M.  Must be something wrong with the car.  Sissie was in a bad humor today; she was looking for a letter from Annie, but one from Annie came for me.  She did not like that.  Oh! Sissie, one has to have patience with you.  You are a spoiled woman — spoiled from a baby.  No rain, no rain, no rain.

 

Nov. 3 [,1943]

Foster had his arm broken last Friday, poor darling.  He does love so to play football.  We went to town, then to the Bay; had a Coca Cola at Greens.  Madie is better; Florence came today.

 

Nov. 5 [,1943]

Went to Jane's recital last night.  She really played grandly.  Madie is better.  She and Florence expect to go to Florida next week.

 

Nov. 19 [,1943]

Helen Bray lost her baby on the 13th of November.  She died on the 17th; buried on the 19th.  Mrs. Parker died on 15th Nov.; buried on the 16th at 11 o'clock.  My darling Mary came on the 15th Nov.  Stayed until Friday 19.  It was such a comfort to have her; don't think she had much of a time. 

 

Nov. 22, 1943

Mrs. Patch's sister, Ethel, left today to return to Niagara Falls.  She could get no seat on the train.  S[issie] and I went down to the P. O.  Got my batteries.  I am not sure they are O. K.  Had a card from Madie today.

 

Nov. 23 [,1943]

Sissie's birthday; 86 years.  Amy Swarthout had us for dinner; had a lovely cake lighted with candles.  Mrs. Porter Danner died today.  Annie and Edward are to come tomorrow.

 

Nov. 24 [,1943]

Annie and Edward came while I was at Mrs. Danner's funeral, 4:30 P. M.  They stayed until Friday, 11 A. M.  It was fine to see them.

 

Nov. 27 [,1943]

No rain yet.

 

Dec. 2, 1943

It was a little cloudy today.  Madie came from Jacksonville yesterday.  I went over this Monday and carried her a lb. of bacon.  Mr. and Mrs. Davis came to see us this afternoon.  Rivers brought me some corn for my lone rooster.

 

Dec. 6, 1943

Chaplain Lockhart had the service today.  Communion Sunday.  Two nice girls sat in the pew with us.  R[ivers] and E[leanor] carried [us] for a nice ride ; sweet of them.

 

Dec. 7, 1943

Pearl Harbor D.!  May we soon revenge that treacherous deed.  I put $50.00 in the Postal Savings; have $50.00 of what Rivers gave me for the sale of the North St. bungalow.  I fixed Eleanor's pumpkin chips.  Will boil them tomorrow.

 

Dec. 8 [,1943]

One week of December gone, and I have done nothing toward Christmas.  Madie, Mrs. Hull, Mrs. Marscher, and Mrs. Bristol were here this afternoon.  I made pumpkin chips for Eleanor today.  The pumpkin was too ripe; did not turn out a great deal.  Had letters from my darling daughters.  Jane came but late.

 

Dec. 9, 1943

Quite warm today.  I think the thermometer must have gone to 77 or 78°.  We put out the oil heater.  I went down town with Sissie, she to get money to pay taxes; I went to do a little job for Madie.  A horrible thing happened at Paris Island today.  An eight year old girl was found raped and murdered.  No men were allowed to leave the Island.

 

Dec. 10, 1943

Lord, O bring my sins to thee;

Cast them out and make me free.

Mrs. Marscher and Amy, her daughter, came to see us this afternoon.  I wrote Mary, Annie, and John Cathcart today.  Plenty of brilliant sunshine today.  A lovely moon tonight.

 

Dec. 15, 1943

Rain, Blessed Rain!  Looks like we will get enough now.  It started about 2 o'clock yesterday.  Sissie has a cold.

 

Dec. 21 [,1943]

It has been a beautiful day; somewhat cold.  My, we had cold weather last week, and plenty of snow.  Mrs. Marshall brought some nice jelly, sweet of her.  Mrs. B. and Mrs. M. were here this afternoon.

 

Dec. 25 [,1943]

Christmas.  I went to church. Did not hear much, but it was pleasant to be with the Lord in His House.  We had dinner with R. and E. and Hazel, my darling daughter, Joe W. [Walpole, I think] and his Virginia were there.  They were sweet.  Cold; must go to bed.

 

Jan. 1, 1944

A nice New Year.  Sissie and I had dinner of Hopping John, ham, and sweet potatoes, nice coffee.  When we came home, went for milk.  I am going to leave here as soon as she gets someone to come in the house who will take care of her.  I am tired; feel I must have a rest.

 

Jan. 3 [,1944]

Sissie will not talk to me.  It is time for me to leave her.  Had a letter from John and one from Foster and Jean.  Well, life is a strange thing.  Sissie and I never could get on together.  Lord help her.

 

Jan. 8 [,1944]

Sat. night.  My children came to see me.  They are sweet.  We have a couple in the room, Mr. and Mrs. Boyd. Nice people.  Rained all day today, very dark. 

 

Jan. 20 [,1944]

Here I am still.  Looks as though there is no chance of getting away.  Spent Saturday with H. and LeR.  Both had flu but were some better.

 

Jan. 21 [,1944]

Went to the P. O. to mail package to Jean.  Sissie sent —  I am actually sitting in my room by a fire.  Sissie went to bed early; so I brought up two or three pieces of wood to enjoy a fire.  It has been a fair day in regard to sun [but] quite cold.  Must go to bed.

 

Sunday Night [Jan. 23, 1944]

Went to church, heard Chaplain Sneacy, a Methodist minister.  Had dinner at home.  Hazel and LeRoy came in the afternoon.  Mrs. Hull, Rivers, E. and the children in the afternoon; lovely.

 

Jan. 27 [,1944]

Dark and cloudy but no rain yet.  We had six beautiful days of sunshine.  Daphne [Hazel's cook] is sick.  I wish it was so I could go to the Island and help Hazel.  Jane said yesterday her father was not feeling at all well.  I feel pretty good.

 

 

Feb. 13, 1944

This was certainly a very cold day.  Sissie and I did not go to church.  I think it is time for Annie to make some effort to take care of Sissie.  I want to see more of my children.  Sissie is good to me, but —

 

Feb. 22, 1944

I am still with Sissie.  I am anxious for Annie to come so I can go to Hazel's for a rest.  I am wondering what Belle will say about coming here.  This place would not suit her.

 

Feb. 24, 1944

Went to see Etta Foster this aft[ernoon].  Mailed a letter to Daisy and Annie.  Etta said Mittie was not doing so well, was running temperatures.  Quite warm; sat on piazza until 8:30 tonight. Florence Chase and Lena Lengnick called this afternoon.

 

Beaufort, S. C.

March 8, 1944

My dear grandson's birthday, and to think, I did not see him to tell him "Happy Birthday to You.  I sent the dear boy a dollar.  I went to stay with Hazel on Feb. 28th.  Annie got here that afternoon to be with Sissie.  She went back to S[ummerville] on Sat., the 4th.  I came back in the evening.  I am wondering if A. did not find it a task to be here.  Hazel was sweet and thoughtful.  It is lovely to be with her.

 

Beaufort, S. C.

March 12, 1944

This is Sunday.  A foggy, miserable day; quite wet from recent rain.  I will not go to church.  Cannot hear Chaplain Barney preach anyway.  Sissie is very complaining.  Took 4 Carter's pills last night.  I surely pray to have more patience when she is complaining.  My darling Hazel came last night, brought  _______ ice cream and oranges.  Jane went to Columbia for a music contest.  Stayed with Mary Friday night.  Was to come back last night.

 

May 25, 1944

I returned from Frogmore on Monday afternoon the 22nd.  Anne brought Mary and me over in the car.  The Boyds left Monday eve. about 6 o'clock.  Mrs. Marscher came here on Tuesday afternoon, then again Wed. afternoon.  Mrs. Bristol also was here.  Mrs. Hull came later; also Virginia and Gloria.

 

Beaufort, S. C.

March 26, 1944

This is Sunday night.  I did not go to church.  Could not sleep last night; therefore felt dumb when morning came.  Sissie and I had dinner with Hazel and LeRoy, then they brought us to town, picked up Madie and went for a ride by the Air Station.  When we came back, Rivers and E. came in with R. Jr. and Frances.  James Pinckney married Dimples Fonder in St. Helena's at 4 P.M.  Chaplain Barney performed the ceremony.

 

April 8, 1944

We went to church on Good Friday, yesterday,  Stayed there for one hour and a half, then went down town to pay bill and get some groceries.  I had a bad fall in the afternoon on the staircase; hurt the little finger on my left hand.  It is swollen and still hurts.  John's birthday; took the calla, which is blooming, to ornament the grave. 

 

April 30, 1944

Went to church; the Hazel took me home for dinner, such a nice diner.  My darling boy came for me with Eleanor and the children, also that sweet boy Edward Hook.  I must write and tell his mother how beautifully he behaves.. Sissie had dinner with Eleanor.

 

June 1, 1944

Mrs. Fred Ford died Decoration Day, was buried yesterday at White Church in Frogmore.  Mrs. Hull took Sissie and me for a ride.  It was nice to get around and see many new buildings.  Today Jane graduates.  Lord love and keep her.

 

 

Beaufort, S. C.

June 20, 1944

We have some terribly hot weather; some nights it was impossible to sleep.  It is a little cooler today.

 

Frogmore, S.C.

June 29, 1944

I have been here since Sunday evening.  It has been delightful, almost like Heaven after the terrible hot weather in Beaufort and the trouble about leaving Sissie.  Wish I could stay all the time.  Garland Rice died Sunday, 25th, and Mrs. Bailey died the same day.

 

Frogmore, S.C.

July 2, 1944

I have been here a week.  Hope to stay until Thursday, the 6th.  Sissie is with Madie; seems happy and contented.  James came Friday night.  Went back to Clemson today.  He is now a corporal. 

 

Frogmore, S.C.

July 6, 1944

My last day over here.  I am going back to Beaufort to stay with Sissie.  I really believes she wants me.  Hazel and LeRoy have been most good and kind.  Thank God I have them to fall back on.  Florence's daughter was born the Fourth of July.  I pray she will grow up to be a wonderful comfort to her mother.  Madie and Sissie came to see us yesterday evening with Mr. and Mrs. Steven and their son Bobby, who is 13 years old today.  It has been rainy and cool most of the time I have been here. 

 

Beaufort, S.C.

July 23, 1944

One year ago we buried Mary.  It has been a sad time for Sissie.  Last Sunday evening Mrs. Colcock, Etta, and Adelaide took me to have supper with Hazel and LeRoy.  Had fried chicken.  It was a good supper.  Mr. Evans died on July 18, and the funeral was on the 19th.  The body was cremated.  We had diner at home.  Hazel, LeRoy, and Jane went to the beach.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Aug. 1, 1944

I went to Frogmore for dinner Sunday, had a good one.  We took James up the road to hitchhike to Columbia.  He expected to stay the night with Mary; go to Clemson in the morning.  It is very hot.

 

Aug. 13. 1944

This is James' birthday, 18 years old.  God grant he will have a long, happy life and that the spirit of Christianity will always dwell in him.  A beautiful warm Sunday morning.

 

Aug. 18, 1944

A beautiful hot afternoon.  I am at Hazel's; came last night after Hazel and LeRoy had been to Pictures.  Belle is visiting Sissie.  This is the anniversary of my wedding day.  If John had lives, we would be married 52 years. 

 

Aug. 20, 1944

I am still at Frogmore.  It is a beautiful morning.  I do hope the war will soon end as the Allies are near Paris.  Belle will go back to Greenville at 10:30 this morning.  I think I will take a long rest today and not go to church.  In some ways it has been lovely here.  I go home, or that is, back to Beaufort this afternoon.  

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Sept. 2, 1944

This is a beautiful, hot morning.  We had  quite a pleasant August.  I hope that Daisy will get to Bennington [Fort Benning] so that she may see John get his commission. 

 

Sept. 13, 1944

Vic Brown came to see me a week ago today.  My dear children came to see me, Daisy, Thomas, and John, just made 2nd lieutenant, Foster, the big darling, and Jean, who was 14 yesterday.  Oh! how I wish I could have ....

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Sunday, Sept. 17, 1943  [The Journal says 1943 but  the context of the entry and its position in the Journal make it seem highly likely the proper date is 1944.]

 

We went to church.  Hazel, darling child, took us to Frogmore for dinner.  LeRoy was nice, all the time thinking of something nice to do.  Gave us each a box of delightful cookies, which are hard to get in this war time.  Saw Mrs. McDonald in church, a good woman.  New renters came in last night — Mr. and Mrs. Hartmann, both nice.  Mrs. Malchorsky left Friday morning at 6 A.M.  I got up at 5 A.M. and had breakfast for her.  Mrs. Patch left for Chapel Hill on Monday at 11; he left the same day for New River, N.C.  Jane was taken to Limestone, Sunday the 10th, 1944.

 

Oct. 27, 1944

Annie leaving today; came Tuesday.  This is Friday.  I have enjoyed her visit; wish she could stay longer.  Heard from Mr. Patch yesterday.

 

Nov. 16, 1944

Tomorrow James comes home.  On Monday, the 20th, he will have to go to Fort Jackson for his examination.  If he passes, he will be inducted in the army.  It looks like our Jane is engaged to Randy Tiller; he took her to see his mother last Sunday; Jane just 17 years old yesterday.

 

Nov. 24, 1944

Dear Thomas died last Sunday afternoon.  I am grieved about it.  Daisy will miss him greatly.  Mrs. Lockhart came to see us Tuesday aft.  Dr. Lockhart came this morning.  Madie had Thanksgiving dinner with us.

 

Monday Morning, Nov. 27, 1944

Well, I had a quiet day yesterday.  Went to church; heard some of the bishop's sermon.  Then Hazel took us to Frogmore for dinner.  She had turkey and fruit cake.  I could not eat the fruit cake.  Nellie came to see us last night.  It was good to talk to her.

 

Dec. 7, 1944

This is a cold, rainy day.  Madie came on her way to Communion Service.  Mrs. Bristol paid a short visit after service.  We bought wood from Alec Drayton on Sat. Dec. 2nd.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Jan. 5, 1945

This has been one beautiful day.  Cold, but the atmosphere has been delightful and the sunshine bright and beautiful.  Daisy and children came day before Christmas.  Wish Daisy could have stayed here.

 

Jan. 31, 1945

Mary came from Rock Hill Monday before last, stayed until the following Sunday.  It was a joy to see her.  She only spent one day here with us.  It is a beautiful day — just like spring.  Rivers brought us two birds; will have them for dinner today.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Feb. 12th, 1945

Had a nice birthday.  Children and Annie gave me lovely presents.  I went to Hazel's for dinner yesterday.  Florence and the baby, Frances, were there also.  Hazel and LeRoy were sweet, and Daphne had a nice dinner.  Sissie said she had a fine dinner at home.  Mrs. Hartman's friend came from N. York yesterday afternoon.  I don't know her last name; call her Miss Irene.  It is a lovely day.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Feb. 27th, 1945

This is a beautiful day.   February has been truly a spring month.  All the spring flowers are blooming or putting out.  Madie has been in the hospital three weeks last Sunday.  We had a nice dinner with H. and LeR. last Sunday.  Florence and baby were there, both are sweet.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Feb. 28, 1945

A beautiful day.  Almost as warm as summer.  My phone gave out this morning.  Just had it two weeks.  I went to the Post Office to mail it.  Hope I get another before Sunday.  [The "phone" may be her hearing aid.]

 

March 7, 1945

We are having very warm weather for this time of year.  Florence and the baby went to see Madie, who is not doing well at Riverside.  Tomorrow is Rivers Jr.'s birthday; hard to find a present for him.  Sent back the phone which came Sat., the 3rd — no good.  I am outdone on the phone question.

 

March 13, 1945

On Sunday afternoon I went with LeRoy, Hazel, and Florence to Charleston to see Madie who is in the Riverside Infirmary.  She has cancer.  It was a beautiful day.  I enjoyed the trip, but hated to see Madie with no chance of ever getting quite well again.  When I got back Sunday night, found Rivers and small Rivers here for a visit.  So glad to see them.

 

Bishopville, S.C.

April 3, 1945

It is just grand to be up here with Daisy.  Came up the 24th,  Mary came the following Monday and stayed until Apr. 1.  Fred got here Saturday, last day of March.  They started for Alabama Monday, the 2nd.  I will go back the end of this week.  Rivers will come for me.  I have many blessings.

 

This is Sunday morning, Apr. 15, 1945.  Roosevelt died on the 12th, a shock.  I pray Harry Truman will prove a good president.  Florence came on Tuesday, the 10th.  Madie does not improve.  Cancer is getting more prevalent than ever.  I got a new phone.  Hope it will work.

 

Beaufort

May 1, 1945

This is a cold morning, but the sun is shining beautifully.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

May 13, 1945

This is Mothers' Day.  My children have been lovely to me.  I pray that our Heavenly Father will Bless them and keep them from harm.  Madie says that she is better.  God grant it is so.  Florence is wonderful.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

June 8, 1945

We have had some hot, hot weather.  Last night a thunderstorm and a little rain made the temperature most pleasant.  I wrote two letters after cleaning my room and washing dishes.  Then I went to the P. O. to mail the letters.  When I came back it was about time to cook dinner.  Getting out the things I needed from the refrigerator, I had the misfortune to let the water bottle fall and break.  When I told that old sister of mine, she put her hands to her face; would not speak.  One would have thought she had lost an old friend.  Made me feel horrid.  I looked on the shelf above the refrigerator; lo and behold there was the identical match of the old water bottle.  The glass was clean, not covered under with iron rust as the old one.  Many a time I tried to get that yellow stain off that bottle.  Love is a queer thing.  Here I feel it is my duty to stick by my sister, but does she appreciate what I try to do for her, give her well cooked food and make her comfortable.  So sorry Daisy had to have some of her front teeth out.  Looks like we will have some more rain.  We took care of Florence's baby yesterday for four hours.

 

June 17, 1945

I had a pleasant day today.  Went to church.  Then Hazel, James, and Jane took Florence, her dear baby, and me to the Island.  Had a good dinner.  Such a cool, delightful time over there.  Thank the Good Lord.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

June 22, 1945

My darling James just came to tell me good-bye.  After two week furlough, he is on his way back to the army.  God send an angel with a flaming sword to guard him.  His dear little mother; my heart goes out to my baby daughter.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

July 11, 1945

Having plenty of rain since the eclipse of the sun Monday morning.  We did not see much of it as it was cloudy.  It is a beautiful morning, but guess it will soon be quite warm as we are having plenty of hot weather.  Eleanor still in Augusta.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Aug. 11, 1945

Madie was carried to the Beaufort Hospital this morning.  Florence brought Frances for me to take care of until 12:30.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Aug. 14, 1945

I must write it down.  We are not at War.  Grand and glorious!  Japan gave up.  It was announced by the president at 7 P.M.  Thank God.

 

Aug. 23, 1945

Rose Ellis left on the train today after staying with us 1 week.  Eleanor took her to the station.  She was generous to us, giving Sissie $!00.00; to me she made a gift of $25.00.  I am looking for Daisy and Jean this afternoon to spend a time from tonight to Sunday afternoon.  I wish Foster could have come.  I will go to Hazel's with Daisy and Jean.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Sept. 16, 1945

The Hartman's left the first of last week.  I was sorry to see them go.  We have no one in the room.  Madie not expected to last much longer.  Looks stormy; did not go to church.  LeRoy will come for me to go to Frogmore.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Sept. 17, 1945

Madie Walpole died last night at the County Hospital about 3 P.M.  The storm came from Florida, but is not very bad.  No electricity. 

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Sept. 22, 1945

This is a beautiful day but quite warm.  No paper came this morning; do miss it.  So much rain made High Water.  It is said that is the reason the truck did not come from Charleston [i.e., the truck delivering the Charleston paper].  I hope Russia is not going to give the U.S. too much trouble. 

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Sept. 25, 1945

Still very warm.  Heard from Annie.  Edward had a bad accident driving a mountain to see a view.  Brakes went back on him. He should have had better sense than to try to drive that old car around the mountains.  Pity he was not hurt instead of Annie.  No renters yet.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Sept. 28, 1945

We had a couple come in and spend the night; paid $2.00.  That is a help.  Went to see Mrs. Colcock yesterday afternoon; does not look very strong.  Laurie has nice children.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Oct. 5, 1945

Quite dark this morning.  Hope we will not get the storm.  It is reported in Central America in Mexico.  Wonder where James and John are.  Bless them.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Oct. 15, 1945

We still have no renter.  Annie has sent $15.00, but I don't think it will go far. 

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Oct. 21, 1945

This is my dear son's birthday.  I have written on the gift I gave him, "I love you just the same," because I have always loved him devotedly, my only son.  God bless him always.  Rose has come to stay a while, perhaps two weeks.  I hope to get a little rest with my darling Hazel.  Another beautiful day.  God is kind.

 

Frogmore, S.C.

Oct. 26, 1945

Been here since Monday evening.  Now getting ready to return to Beaufort as Rose Ellis goes home tomorrow afternoon.  For some reason I hate to go, but must do my duty by Sissie.  Hazel has been so lovely to me. 

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Nov. 5, 1945

My dear girls came to see me last week.  Mary and Fred came Monday, Oct. 29.  Daisy and Jean came Saturday, Nov. 3.  It was a joy to have them.  Cold today.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Nov. 18, 1945

This is Confirmation Sunday, but I have not heard of a single candidate.  Have been having trouble with phone.  Got a new one but it does not give satisfaction.  Mary is still with Daisy.  Fred down in Ala.  Hope it will all turn out right and Fred will get work.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Nov. 25, 1945

Beautiful day; rich sunshine and not too cold.  We had a very nice Thanksgiving.  I went to service at W.S.O [U.S.O. ?].  Had sermon by Mr. Turner, Methodist preacher.  I thought he could have given us more to think about, but will not criticize.  Jane came for Thanksgiving; just got a glimpse of her.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Nov. 28, 1945

This is John's birthday.  Wish I could give him a hug and a kiss.  God bless him and keep him from evil.  Very cloudy.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Dec. 4, 1945

This is a dark day.  Had some rain.  I went downtown to get Grecius Fresh sausage [?].  I had to pay 46 cts. per lb.  J. B. Thomas died at the Beaufort hospital over a week ago.  He was a friend to everyone, especially the Negroes.  His poor old parents are living.  Hazel will miss him.  Too sorry Mary has to go so far, Murfreesboro, Tenn.  Hope they will like it.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Dec. 16, 1945

It does seem strange why such different dispositions should be thrown together.  It is hard for me to carry on.  How shall we carry on?  My sister has no money except what this house is worth.  She does not seem to know what she will do.  I get so tired of the life.

 

Dr. Lockhart came in on Tuesday of last week.  He seems a good man.  Florence and her Jerry with the baby Frances came Tuesday, the 11th.  I was glad to see Florence.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Dec. 25, 1945

This is Christmas Day!  Dull, gloomy, rainy weather, and my Daisy has to come through it this morning.  Do wish Mary and Fred had brought her and Jean yesterday.  No, they would not take the trouble to unload their car.  So Foster would bring their things down this morning.  I must keep a cheerful spirit.  It will all come out right.  Continue trusting God our Father and his son Jesus Christ. 

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Dec. 31, 1945

The last day of the old year.  It has been kind to me.  All my love ones are living; all well as far as I know.  The two grandsons are still overseas.  God love them and care for them.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Jan. 1, 1946

Cold today.  Wrote to Daisy and Mary.  Miss Kirkland and Nellie came  to see us.  Troll [?] night.  Happy New Year.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Jan. 14, 1946

Cold today.  We have had wonderful weather since New Years.  Rivers came to see me yesterday (Sunday).  I was glad to see him.  He thinks I should be satisfied to stay with Sissie.  I am sure I try to be; also to do all I can for her.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Jan. 28, 1946

This is Monday morning.  It is quite cold.  I have found plenty to do since I got up half past seven.  Washed pajama; a big job.  Had dinner with LeRoy and Hazel yesterday after going to church.  It was a bright morning, sun shining, but guess it will not last.  Jane came Friday night; went back on bus Sunday 7 A.M.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Feb. 7, 1946

It was my birthday.  When I woke up this morning away from all my children, I felt forlorn. Then when I cooked breakfast, made  fire, and Sissie made no mention of the event, I felt more forlorn [than] ever.  No one to say, "Happy Birthday to you!"  When the mail came such sweet cards and money to buy something for myself.  But best of all was my darling Hazel's thoughtfulness.  She got Peggy to keep the P. O. and came for my benefit to cheer me.  Then took us for a treat.  Then such a lovely dinner.  I was made a new woman.  Thank God for my children.  May he bless them forever.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Feb. 20, 1946

What a day!  This morning about 10 o'clock, we heard Dr. Lockhart was dead.  I knew he was a sick man. Had called to see how he was getting on Tuesday afternoon.  Mrs. L. gave no encouragement regarding his condition; she, too, had flu.  I had no idea he would leave us so soon.  A good man gone.  I loved him.

 

Annie came with Miss Kirkman and Mrs. Flannagan; spent 24 hours with us.  Saw very little of the ladies.  They were born in the North.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Feb. 27, 1946

Daisy took me to Charleston on Saturday, the 23rd.  Had my feet manicured.  The lady was very gracious, a native of Cleveland, Ohio.  I stayed with Daisy on the Island until Sunday when she and Jean took Annie and Edward back to Summerville on their way home.  A wind storm started up before daylight in Beaufort.  (The same wind storm drove a ship which was dragging anchor into the Cooper River bridge, slicing off the East End.)  It worried me greatly as I feared the limb of a tree might fall on the car.  I can't say I was so glad to get back here.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

March 18, 1946

Went to church yesterday.  We still have no rector.  Mr. Frame read the service and delivered a sermon composed by an eminent Divine, "Who is My Neighbor?", based on the parable of the Good Samaritan.  It looks like Mary has to move again.  Poor child!  Just settled in St. Petersburg, Fla. with a good house and her own furniture; to have to pull up, and no telling where they will go.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

March 29, 1946

It seems to me I miss Dr. L. more and more.  I often think of his face; he was  not handsome, but he was beautiful.  To look at him you knew he had fought many battles in his mind by prayer, and [with] God's help he had won.  Well, he had finished his work, but I wish God had seen fit to let him live a little longer.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

April 7, 1946

Hazel went to Charleston with LeRoy and James, so we had dinner at home this Sunday.  Surely missed going to the Island.  Cloudy this morning but turned out a beautiful afternoon.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Apr. 13, 1946

Yesterday was one year since Roosevelt's passing.  Truman has done the best he could with the Congress opposing him.  It is quite cold.  The sun is shining today; guess it will soon warm up.  Kate Pinckney and her mother, Mrs. Annie Walpole paid us a visit last evening, staying until 10 o'clock.  Mr. Horace Walpole, Kate's father, was a first cousin of LeRoy's father.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

May 1st, 1946

James is on his way back in the army; is to report at Fort Bragg today.  I surely hated to see him leave for that 18 months more in the army.  Foster left yesterday for a camp in N. J.; will soon be sent overseas, we fear.  But why worry!  The Boys want to see something of the World.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

May 12, 1946

This is Mothers' Day.  If I only had all my children with me, that would be the best present of all.  God bless them!

 

June 2, 1946

Well, it looks like I will get to see Mary in St. Petersburg.  Daisy will come tomorrow.  We start the next day.  Rivers and family went to see Anne graduate from Furman University.  Do not know if they have come back yet.  Frances will graduate from Hi. tomorrow night.  We have renter.  Came in last Tuesday, June 28 — Blanche and Peter Sansa.  Hope they will stay.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

June 27, 1946

Daisy, Jean, and I started June 4th to drive to St. Petersburg to see Mary.  We had a good trip down, arriving at 10:15.  Mary and Fred were not at home, but we made ourselves at home, knowing she expected us.  She and Fred came in a short time later and gave us a hearty welcome.  We stayed until June 11th, getting to Beaufort June 12th as we had spent the preceding night in a road house near Savannah.  The weather following our return was intensely hot.  We were glad we got out of Florida before it started. Sissie got back from Summerville June 17th.  Susie Colcock Ganson will be leaving Beaufort next week to live in Washington, D.C.  William Colcock had a son June 15, 1946.  My dear grand daughter Frances graduated from Beaufort High June 3, 1946.  My oldest grand daughter, Anne, graduated from Furman University June 4, 1946.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

July 22m 1946

Florence and the dear little Frances went back to Florida on Saturday, the 20th; had been with LeRoy and Hazel four weeks.  I hated to see them go and missed them when I went to Frogmore yesterday when Hazel gave us such a fine dinner.  Daphne had gone off for the weekend.  Mr. Batchelder died last Wednesday; how she will miss him.  Quite warm this morning.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

August 7, 1946

It is wonderful that the colored people around Broad River Farm do not forget me.  Ellis came last week bringing okra.  Gus Goodwine came today; brought okra and Irish potatoes.

 

Beaufort, S. C.

Aug. 13, 1946

This is James' birthday.  Happy birthday to you, James.  May you have many more.  God bless you.  I love you!  You are my dear grandson!  This is a beautiful morning.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Aug. 24, 1946

Went to Fishers by 9 A.M. to get oleo; price 35¢ per lb.  Then to P. O. to get 5 lbs. sugar Annie sent us, dear Annie.  — 11:15.  It is raining hard.  Good thing I got out early; we are having much rain.  Hope Daisy has John at home.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Aug. 29, 1946

It has been a long day.  I have not felt so well.  It has not been a very warm day.  I hope John is home with his mother; nearly two weeks since he landed in Seattle.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Aug. 31, 1946

Amy Lewis' wedding day.  Cloudy, cold.  We went to look at the presents yesterday evening.

 

Beaufort, S. C.

Sept. 1, 1946

I went to church this morning.  Had a nice service.  The text was Luke 9 - 18 verse.  Went to Amy Lewis's wedding last evening.  A lovely wedding; the Bishop married them.  Went to Beau Sam and Emma Frances' wedding at the Baptist church.  I am tired out.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Sept. 7, 1946

I was invited to Mrs. Bristol's birthday party, but as Hazel was coming to help buy groceries, I declined.  Julie Morrells gets married tomorrow.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Sept. 19, 1946

A year yesterday since Madie Walpole left us.  We have been having dark, gloomy days; i.e., mostly in the mornings.  I am looking for Daisy, John, and Jean on Sept. 21.

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Sept. 30, 1946

Mamie Varn died this morning.  Will be buried in Bamberg tomorrow morning at 10:30.  I will not go to the funeral. 

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Nov. 1, 1946

October was indeed a wonderful month for sunshine.  We had very few days that were dark.  This week has indeed been a wonderful one for company.  On Tuesday evening Col. Riches came from Bamberg to attend a Brotherhood supper.  He brought with him my Mary, Emma Jones and her sister Annie to see me.  I surely enjoyed having them; wish they could have stayed longer than the evening.  We had Little Rivers and his friend DuPre Jones here for two nights; that is, Rivers stayed two nights, DuPre one. Yesterday Willie McLeod came and brought his sister Min and our Rosa Ellis.  It was good to see them.  I am looking for Mary and Fred Sunday

 

Beaufort, S.C.

Feb. 7, 1947

This is my birthday [the 84th], but that old Sissie is not aware of the fact.  She is so concentrated on herself; nobody else counts.  Oh! what is one more year added to an old lady's age!

 

Bed Time:  I had a Happy Birth Day!  My children were all good to me.  And my daughter, Rivers' wife, gave Sissie and me a grand Birth Day's supper.  My darling Hazel came at 9 o'clock to see me.  What a lovely thing.  God bless them all.

 

The following poem and the comment  below  were apparently added several days after the entry of Feb. 7, 1947 (perhaps on Feb. 15— i.e., the date given for  John Allison Lawton's funeral — or later), although  no break is indicated in the Journal.

 

            One step I see before me,

            'Tis all I need to see.

            The light of heaven more brightly             shines

            when Earth's illusions flee.

 

            I know not what awaits me

            God kindly veils my eyes,

            And every day in every way

            I sing He knows, "He Knows."

 

            **********************

 

As a child I saw in my fathers carriage house a wonderful coach to be drawn by two horses.  The cinchman [?] took the horses; now had I the opportunity to examine the coach.  When I married John Wingard Varn, I saw in truth Good, forever the farmer, a fine two horse coach, but there were ______.  Never had I a drive in either of those two fine coaches.  [The handwriting in this intriguing paragraph is particularly hard to decipher, especially the  sentence about John Varn!]

 

John Allison Lawton was buried today, Feb. 15, 1947

 

Beaufort, S. C.

March 1, 1947

After about two months of sunshine, the rain has come.  It is most welcome.  My dear Daisy and her two children, John and Jean, came last week and stayed until Sunday morning.  Annie paid us a short visit indeed — 26 Feb.  It was good to see her, and she is looking well.

 

March 26, 1947

I am still in Beaufort.  It is a beautiful day, plenty of sunshine, but how the wind blows!  Makes it feel quite cold.  I am feeling like I can still work.

 

Beaufort, S. C.

March 31, 1947

This has been the windiest March I have ever experienced, but the month is going out like a lamb — not even a breeze.  My darling son sang the Palms yesterday, which he has done for many Palm Sundays.  He sand wonderfully, and it was a joy to me.  What a blessing are all by dear children.  Hazel gave us a grand dinner as usual on Sunday, yesterday. 

 

Beaufort, S. C.

Apr. 8, 1947

This is John's birthday.  He has been gone from me 7 years.  I still miss him.  We had a lovely Easter; the weather was beautiful all day.  I wish I could have had all my children with me; there were only Hazel and James with Rivers and his children.  Dear Eleanor was sick with the flu.

 

Beaufort, S. C.

Apr. 15, 1947

The Diocesan Convention meets in Summerville today, lasts two days.  I hope Annie has nice delegates with her.  Jane got in trouble staying out late.  I hope Hazel and LeR. fixed it up when they went up there Sunday.  Rivers gave us a nice ride Sunday; went to see Roy Attaways at the Poor House.

 

Beaufort, S. C.

Apr. 30, 1947

This has been an unpleasant month; much rain; [at] the first plenty of wind, and a good many dark days, but on the whole vegetation has come out pretty well.  My grandsons will soon start for home.  God bless and keep them.  Mittie Colcock and Catherine Seabrook paid us a nice visit yesterday afternoon.

 

Mothers' Day

May 11, 1947

Daisy was at Mary's, also her darling children.  Foster got home yesterday from Germany, and the dear boy looks so well and handsome.  Mary had everything so nice and tasty — darling Mary.

Beaufort, S. C.

June 13, 1947

On May 7th we started our holiday.  My sister spent hers with Annie; I went to Bishopville; had a good restful time.  Daisy was grand to me.

 

*********************

 

The following entry is not dated and was written on  a page of the note book that had been torn out and stuck in the back of  Journal  V.

 My mother was a lady!  As a girl she loved dancing and fun in general, but she had a father, a Presbyterian Elder, who restricted her inclinations.  When she married, she was put into the position of caretaker of souls and bodies of many slaves.  She was of a most conscientious turn of mind; consequently, it irked her when the slaves showed little care about being Christianized.  The babies came fast; not knowing much about raising children, half of them died.