MUSCOGEE COUNTY GEORGIA Journal LaNora Rodgers Gibson 1880 /1883 Contributed to the USGenWeb Archives by: Pat Oelslager roelslager@cfl.rr.com and Gussie E.Reese Parker LaNora Virginia Rodgers(Nora)married Cicero Augustus Gibson(Gus) Dec 1881,their children were: Gussie Olive Gibson(1884) Muscogee Co. James Gibson Lester Gibson Walter Gibson Gertha Gibson LaNora Virginia Rodgers was the daughter of James McCurdy Rodgers ,s/o Adam Rodgers and Nancy Lathan. And her mother was Caroline Amelia Pool,d/o Laban Pool and Winifred Anthony children of James Rodgers and Caroline Pool were: Nancy Winifred Rodgers,1854 Sarah Elizabeth(Lizzie) Rodgers 1856 James Labon Rodgers,1859 LaNora Rodgers, 1861 Eula Lee Rodgers,1870, all born in Muscogee Co.Ga. Some of them are buried at Mt.Zion/Mt. Moriah >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>. This is a type written copy of the journal of LaNora(Nora) Virginia Rodgers.As the journal was written in the years 1880-1883, the paper was deteriorating rapidly. I did not want to take away from the journal by correcting the spelling, as spelling and pronuncation of words have changed over time.So I have left them as they were in the journal. Copied April 2000/ by her great grandaughter, Patricia Nell Reese Oelslager, Lake Panasoffkee,Fl. The page numbers listed are from the original journal She apparently married Cicero Augustus(Gus)Gibson, December, 1881. LaNora Virginia Rodgers and Cicero Augustus Gibson were the parents of Gussie Olive Gibson ,wife of Henry Butler Reese, s/o Thomas Clopton Reese and Martha Olivia Kimbrough Children of Henry B.Reese and Gussie Olive Gibson:: Thomas Cicero Reese, Henry Kimbrough Reese and Olaf Gray(John) Reese. The Journal of LaNora Virginia Rodgers 1880 /1883 (pg 1) Tuesday. August 31,1880 My second journal to this school. As I have a new journal started, I wish that I had something of importance to put at the first but I haven’t anything. When I awoke this morning the wind was blowing very hard, and it was raining some, so I had to put on Buddie’s coat and hat to keep me dry while I was milking. Pa found a chicken dead at the fowl house door that an owl had caught, it was not cold. After I had finished my work, Lucy and myself came to school. We went through with our daily routine as usual. At recess Oscar gave us some fruit which we enjoyed sumptously. When the bell was tapped for dinner, I came home in the rain. Willie Palmer was here,Buddie had cut his hair off. After dinner was over with they went to the school house. Then we proceeded with our evening exercise. N.V. (pg 2) Wednesday,September 1st The weather seemed very unlikely this morning but the sun shone out after a while. The wind did not cease to blow though. I think Lucy must be getting smarter, every morning she goes after a bucket of water, but she always seems so thirsty. I guess that is the reason. We read out chapter in the Testament then recited our Grammar. We recited our Composition lesson before recess. After recess we prepared our History, Geography, Dictionary and a Spelling lesson in the little blue back book for recitation. At noon I came home with a severe headache. After I had eaten dinner and helped to wash the dishes. I returned to the schoolhouse and swept the floor as it was my day to sweep. We recited our Arithmatic lesson before recess , I miss Oscar very much as he and I go to the board to recite , he did not come this eve. After recess the other Arithmetic class recited their lessons. Then our journals(pg 3) were read and school was dismissed. Exa came home with me to stitch some, after she was through she went home. Sister went to Mr. Davids this eve to stay till bedtime, Buddy is going after her, Joe did not go though. Ma went over to Aunt Susie’s, so I must quit writing and go to my” Domestic Afairs”. Thursday Sept 2nd. We arose earlier this morning than usual on account of its being a busy day with us. Sister didn’t get home last night, as Buddie didn’t go after her. The bell had been taked the second time, for reading a chapter in the Testament, when I arrived .After we were through reading . Lucy and mysellf began to recite our Grammar, as the rest had not come , but it was not long however before Oscar came, so he finished the recitations with us. As Lucy says, it is of no use to relate how we proceed with our studies, as we all know how they are every day. We didn’t have a very lengthy recess, At noon I came home after(pg4) waiting a while at the schoolhouse for a shower of rain to cease.After dinner was over with, I helped to starch the clothes and stitched some for Ma, then returned to school. When I arrived Mrs Ely and Lucy were eating their dinner. This was the eve for the patrons of the school to meet and decide whether the school should continue or not.I do wish that it would for I am anxious to go; I see how much I lack for an education and the rest also. We left Pa and Uncle Sam at the school house, they were waiting for Mr. Fortson. School was dismissed earlier this eve, on account of its being taken in earlier that usual. Fri. Sept. 3rd. 1880 I thought I would be later then usual getting to school this morning for sister, I guess thought she would be smart today and scour some, so I thought I would help her a little, I carried the things out, brushed down and drawed some rinsing water. As Eula was sick, Emmie and I (pg 5)went to school without her. Exa didn’t get here in time to recite her Grammar. Lucy and I recited the lesson ?? , then went to work upon our Composition. Exa had come by that time . It was recited the next thing after recess, then our History and Geography. When we came home and had finished dinner the old hen that stays in the garden with a brood of chickens, began to squal very loud, we knew that there was an enemy some where about, so Pa ran and got the gun and went in there, the hen squaling all the while. Pa shot but the eneny fled unhurt, except he had to leave the stolen dinner, he had severly wonded, behind. I guess that somewhat made him feel badly. Oscar and Jimmie came to school this eve. Cousin Anna came after recess, to hear our exercise. Our Compositions were read, then our journals. School was then dismissed, and we put the house in order for singing. (pg 6)Last night Joe Palmer and Gus Gibson called on me. Monday, Sept .6th.1880 I was late getting to school this morning than Ive been since I started. I had more to attend to, sister being gone, I guess I shall miss her very much. Exa and Lucy were reciting our grammar lesson, when I arrived. Anna was later than I. Our recitation were about like they are every Monday morning. At noon Exa went home with me. The bell had been rung when we returned. Our Arithmatic was prepared and recited before recess. At recess Anna and myself went off and had a private conversation with each other. When the bell was I tried to talk Lizzie out of playing with these little girls but she would not hear to it,but went on and played as if she was as small as any of them. When she is larger than myself. She may not listen to me, but I listen to others that speak of her childish ways, and I wish she would quit it, it wouldn’t benefit me any but I’m sure it would her. When the bell was rung I(pg7) passed over some of my lesson in grammar, and we read our journals, (the boys first) and were dismissed . We came home and Eula went home with Lera. I have been sick a week and have missed school, last Wednesday, Mr. David died, and was buried Friday. G.G. and Willie Palmer came over yesterday. Sept .13, 1880. ,Monday It has been so long since I wrote a journal that I scarcely know how to begin. I hurried to school this morning in order to get my grammar lesson before books. Exa didn’t come this morning,neither did Joe, Charlie,nor John. Our grammar and composition were recited before recess and afterwards out Geography and History, Dictionary and Spelling lessons, then we sat down and waited for a shower of rain to cease, so we could go home. In a few minutes Buddie came after us with overshoes, cloak and umbrellas. This eve I hurried through with my arithmatic lesson and caught up with them in what I had missed. Exa came home with me after school to do some stitching. (pg 8)Tues, September 14th The weather was very cool this morning ,some of us had to put on shawls and thicker clothes. Exa didn’t come again this morning, so Lucy and I had to recite our grammar and Composition by our selves again. At recess we had quite a treat, peaches, pomegramates, apple and some red top sugarcane. we ate during all the recess. At noon I came home ,ate my dinner and did a little work before I returned.Exa came a little after the bell had been rung. The weather is much warmier this evening. After recess we recited our arithmatic lesson and while we were reading our journals ,Pa came from town, brought Mrs Ely three letters. Lizzie went home with Anna to spend the night. We came home and I found a show book that Pa had brought which I looked through then wrote my journal hurriedly. (pg9)Wednesday Sept.15th,1880 Pa and Buddie carried cotton to the gin house this morning.To Mr. Fortsons and Cousin John carried his to Mrs Davids when he came back he brought Cousin Mittie to our house. It was the first time that she had been on the ground since she was sick. Exa missed coming to school again this morning. Our morning lessons were recited as usual I believe.At recess I tried to draw a picture in my book.Anna and Lucy amused theirselves by playing base with the children. At noon Eula & I went, started home ,she thought she must see the babie first and I thought I wouldn’t let her, so I held her all the way there but when we got there it was asleep.After dinner Anna came up , I starched the clothes and she and I (pg 10)ate some ponegranates , read some about the show and returned to school. The bell had been rung when we arrived,so I didn’t get to sweep and at recess I forgot it. When school was dismissed we returned home. I did some work for Ma, after a while Cousin Anna come to spend the night. After supper Cousin John came and sit a while.We had some music and retired, it was near eleven oclock. Thursday September 16th We arose before day this morning. “Smart folks,”but the baby woke us up. Cousin Anna went home early. When I arrived at school the bell had been rung. Lucy saw me coming and threw a board out at me. Exa came to school this morning. I think it was time as she had missed three mornings in sucession. (pg 11)Pa carried his cotton to town today. Our morning lessons were recited very well. At noon I came home helped to prepare dinner and after we had eaten I looped Ma a dress,then sprinkled some clothes to be ironed.I returned to school and prepared my arithmetic lesson. At recess Exa went home. Lucy asked her Mama to let her go too, she said she would if she would repeat the rule that she missed and read her journal, but she didn’t do it, so she staid till the rest went. When school was out I came home and ironed.Cousin John had come and carried Cousin Mittie home. Mrs Almond and Ada came by from Mrs. Davids to see her. After supper I sit down and wrote to sister as Pa and Ma are going up there in the morning. N.V.R. (pg12)Friday September 17th 1880 We arose early this morning in order to get Mama and Papa off to Harris by times but they didn’t start until seven oclock. Eula and I then hurried through with our work and locked the house up and went to school.Exa nor Lucy didn’t come this morning. I felt quite lonely when I went to recite a review in grammar and other studies, but Anna was here. After we had spelled we didn’t have anything to do but write. I asked permission to go home and it was granted, so I went and cooked dinner. Buddie had already started me a fire, so it didn’t take me long. When we had eaten, Eula washed the dishes and I wrote my journal. When I returned to school,Exa and Lucy had not come, but it was not long after the bell had been rung when they arrived.We didn’t have any company this (pg13)eve,we didn’t care though. When school was dismissed we stratened the books, and brushed the floor for singing.After we had finished, Exa,Lucy and Ora came by with me,Exa staid all night,, Lucy and Ora went home. Yesterday there were only 26 here. Gus brought Willie ???. Monday Sept.20th 1880 After this journal is written,we have only three more to write.Can we realize that our dear little school will soon be ended. ah! but it is so. Just four days more and our parting will be ore. But we need not look on it as anything serious, as the time has nearly expired, but be thankful that we have improved our time as well as we have. I think we all have done well. I’m sure if we haven’t, it was not our instructress fault for I do believe she has done her part well. If we had only been as faithful as she, we would(pg 14) have a “brag school” as the old saying is(I had company nearly all the while Ma and Pa were gone to Harris.) However we have four days more yet to improve in. If we put the time ,make use of that time,as we should, we will see how much can be learned in a short while. I think I would make a slow housekeeper as I have been one two or three days, I was rather late getting to school this morning, but Exa and I were very smart, if I may say so for we had a great deal to do. Lucy had recited our grammar lesson. My lesson did very well today.At noon I came home and prepared dinner, after we had eaten Eula went back to the schoolhouse, I washed the dishes and Buddie and I were sitting down talking when Pa and Ma came. Anna and Exa went home with Lera. Cousin Anna came up here a little while before sundown, she called Eula to come and keep the cows and dogs off.(pg15) of her, as one cow started at her, I couldn’t help but laugh because our cows are so gentle. (If cows are gentle to home folks that does not keep them from running after strangers. Leist go to bed it is almost 9(nine) oclock. Tis time for honest people to be in bed and give the roques a chance.) this is some of Buddies foolishness,as if it wasn’t all foolishness. Sept 21st, Tuesday Last night at the hour of midnight when everything was hushed in silent repose, the “seronaders” broke the stillness with their sweet music, which awok me from pleasant dreams. It was very much appreciated by me. It had been so long since we had had one,that it seemed that I never had heard such sweet music before, when I first awoke. The schollars that had come had finished reading in the Testament when I arrived. Lucy and(pg 16) I then recited our grammar lessons , we had not finished when Exa came,she parsed one sentence. Cousin John carried Cousin Mittie up to our house to spend the day. My lesson in composition and geography were recited very well, and my spelling lessons were perfect. At noon I wrote Jimmie some copys in his book. Joe and Seremms??? read their journals at recess and went home. After recess we recited our arithmetic lesson and read journals, then school was dismissed. Wednesday Sept. 22nd 1880 I did not arrive at school till they were reading in the Testament. Our lesson in grammar was mostly in ? farsing,composition was strength and geography was a discription of the late wars.They were recited very well. At noon I came home , ate my dinner and helped Ma to wash the dishes.then I took my old letters, sit down and read (pg17)some of them, which always interest me. The little girls has just built them a house, and yesterday they had a feast which, I have no doubt but what they enjoyed it. We prepared our arithmetic lesson before recess. At recess Lucy has so much sweetgum that she could hardly hold it in her mouth. I had a short race after her to get it, the result was she came near swollering it. After school was dismissed, Lucy came by with me to see if I could go home with her, when we reached home Aunt Susie and Olen were there. I went with her, when we arrived there Exa was cooking supper. Lucy went and grabble some ground peas. After supper we sang some and retired. Exa and I didn’t retire to sleep though, until we had talked over our politics. “Politics are going very high with us now. Oct 12th.(pg18) I scarely know how to begin this journal as it is my last. September 23rd. This morning when I awoke I could not imagine what so much noise was about, but I soon discovered that I was not at home, as I staid all night with Exa. I came home after breakfast to help Ma before I went to school. On my way I gathered some flowers to make a boquet. When I arrived at school they were reading a chapter in the Testament. As our lessons were recited as usual. I will not repeat it over any more. When I came home from school Mrs Rees, Mattie, Joe and his wife were here. Lucy didn’t come to school today. Now I will try and say a few words concerning our little school. Some of us have been coming three months and I think the time has been very well improved by some. Of course we didn’t make use of our time as we should, but it was our fault. Which have been kindly (pg19)instructed by our teacher and we must return our many thanks to her for her labor.She has been very faithful and attentive to her students, and I wish her much success in all her undertakings. Now schoolmater let us try and not drop our books altogether, try to push forward and not think we must stop because our “Dear little school has come to a close.” “Fare thee Well.” Sept 25th 1880 This being Saturday eve and I am alone, I will write the breaking up of our school yeaterday. We finished the three first books in the Testament yesterday morning, then we commenced in the first of grammar and reviewed as far as we had been this term. Then we prepared a lesson in Composition and Geography,we(pg20) did not review in them, as we didn’t have time. In the afternoon Ma, Mrs. Harrisen, Sallie Cartledge,Frank and Mattie Rees and Cousin Anna Hill came in. The small division class in arithetic recited first then the fraction and then ours in subtraction of demoninate fractions, we did not review because we didn’t have time as we wished to be dismissed at recess. Mrs. Ely put me up to the board, I thought one of the rest ought to have gone, because they had been going up there for a long time and wouldn’t let me go, but I didn’t care a particle. Some of the journals were very sad, concering our school breaking up. Mrs. Ely talked to us for a while and then dismissed. I couldn’t help sheding a few tears. So that is the end of our Dear little school.(pg21) Last night it was understood between some of us young people of this vicinity to give Mrs Ely and Lucy a seronade, just as school was broken up it began to rain. Anna came home with me to go, we waited till nearly eight O clock for Gus and others that had promised to go, but they didnt come, so we went on, it had nearly quit raining by that time, Anna and Buddie walked ahead and I behind them with my umbrella streched over me, they made me be their waiting maid, open all the gates, next time I bet I will have an escort. Buddie carried my Flutener, when we arrived there,Cousins Mittie, John and Anna also Jimmie Palmer were there, Joe Palmer came after awhile, I gave them some music then we had a nice treat of lemonade and cake, We then played a few games and bid Mrs Ely and Lucy “Good Bye”. (pg22)Wednesday September 29th 1880 It has been longer than I expected before I visited you again journal, but I haven’t found a convenient time until this. Last Saturday night Eddie came up and spent the night but left next morning before breakfast. Ma and Pa also Eula spent the day Sunday with Mrs. Harrison, Buddie went to Sabath school at Bethal, so that left me alone, when I found out they were going I went after Exa to come and stay with me, she came and we had a nice time. We had squirrel, bird ,hoecake, biscuit and several other tricks for dinner. We parched us some groundpeas to eat in the eve. About two oclock Aunt Fannie and Theophilus came, after a while Cousin Anna came, it was not very long then before Sallie Cartledge and Ora came. Mr. Nath(pg23) came about dark and sit until 9 oclock when he and Theophilus left. They met Buddie out in the road, he had been to see Miss Bella Fishacher, she is at Mrs. Davids. Buddie promised her he would carry me up to see her Monday night. Monday morning Buddie went to the show, Pa went and carried Eula with him to see the street show, when he was through with his business, he brought her home.Buddie went in the show. When they were all off to town, Ma and I went to the wash tub. Late in the afternoon I went down to Cousin Mittie and got cousin anna in the notion of going with us to see Miss B.F. .when we had finished supper it began to rain so we didn’t get to go. Buddie had his pictures taken ,cabinet size. Tuesday Cousin Mittie and Anna came up and spent the day.(pg24)Cousin Mittie went home that night, but Cousin Anna staid and went with us to Mrs.Davids, we had a very pleasant time,,,I had to drive all the way up there. They treated us to some nice watermelon. When we came home it was eleven oclock.This morning which is Wednesday,Cousin Anna staid and worked on Cousin Mittie’s dress. Exa came to make some shirts. Ma went to the tub with Sarah to help wash. I starched some clothes and cooked dinner.Exa and cousin Anna both went home this eve and Miss Bella and Vinie?? called on me. I am so sleepy that I can hardly write. Sept 30th I have been lonely this eve, Ma went over to Aunt Susie’s ,that left Eula and myself alone, she sewed awhile then helped Pa dig goobers..,so I remained to reflect upon the past and future. I haven’t much to write.(pg25) Pa came home after sundown and I went to milk. While I was milking Tommie Livingston came, he staid till after supper awhile and then went home. Oct 3rd 1880 Sunday morn Buddie has gone to Bethel today. Eula has gone to Aunt Susie’s and Pa and Ma are both reading, so I must do something to amuse myself, journal I will try to intertain yu awhile. Last Friday I cut and made a pair of pants by two oclock, Jessie and Georgia Fortson came up in the eve to see Eula and brought their dolls. Mr Silas came up to look at Pa’s cows but they didn’t trade. Uncle Sam came while he was here to tell us the Mr Stripling would preach at our little schoolhouse Saturday night. Saturday I cut and made Eula a dress by four oclock. I am getting better in my old age.When I had (pg26)finished, Mrs Dean and Miss Jodie stoped in awhile, they had been to see Aunt Susie,when they left I went down and swept out the school house, while I was shutting the door,Mr. Nath Haines and Buddie came along. Buddie had been hunting.We went to preaching, wasn’t very many there. Anna was there, I told her I saw Gus going down that way and I heard he went on business and they (meaning Gus and Anna) were sitting out on the front colonade by themselves., and I wanted to know what business that was? she laughed and said she knew who told me. I told her I was going to tie up a bundle of fodder out side of our gate so that old “Sigh” wouldn’t pass next time.Mr. Haines escorted me there and back then went home.Cousin Nick Miller came home (pg27)with us and staid all night. I am in hopes they all enjoyed themselves. It was the first time Mr.Calhoun was ever here. Sunday night at half past 7. The young men have just left and I will write some more as I wrote some this morning. While Ma and I were putting away the things after dinner Lizzie Palmer and her Pa came, after awhile Gus and Mr. Calhoun came. We went to the singing ,had a very nice one. Mr.S.Palmer lead for us. We came back Messrs. Nath Haines, Joe and W.Palmer came with us. Eddie came after awhile .We had some pomgranate and ground peas,Gus and I played hulgull, he broke me. Buddie and Mr. Nath left before dark to see some young laddies. The rest have just left. Gus and Mr. Calhoun were riding and the rest walking. I felt real sorry for those mules when they started, the way they did whip them. I guess it was to keep off some pasengers for fear they might break something. Willie carried Mrs. Gibson some cane, (so Anna said).Nora V. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (pg28) Oh! that I could be Ever my dearest with thee And be bound together With strings of buckskin leather. >>>>>>>>>>>>>> “Supposing” 1/ Supposing a man avaricious and old Should come to one jingling his silver and gold. And offer a share of his mamon to me, If I to the sale of myself should agree. I wouldn’t -would you? 2/ Supposing a hero, all bristling withfame, And big with the weight of a wonderful name. Proposed in a monent of bland condescensions. To give me his hand and a little attention. I wouldn’t- would you 3/ Supposing a youth, with his heart in his eyes That shone like the light of the beautiful skies. Should promise to love me through all his life. And begged that I’d be his own dear little wife. Guess I would- wouldn’ you? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (pg 29) Remember me Pie. Remember me until I die. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Dearest, you’ll never know The love I have for you. As down the paths of life we go. Oh! I pray you love me too. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> May love, its garlands around the twine; And joy be with thee friend of mine. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> When you are blind and cannot see. For “misery’s sake”, do think of me. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> “Kiss Me Before You Go” Your way lies over the hill-side, Out in the rain and sleet, Out in the world’s wild turmoil, Where the bustle and business meet; But mine by the noiseless fireside, Where the fanciful embers glow With a changeful life- like motion- Kiss me before you go. My quiet way will be haunted With visions none other can see, Glances more prescious than diamonds, Smiles full of meaning to me; The sound of a welcome footstep, Awhisper thrillingly low,(pg30) Ah! thought will clasp memory closely- Kiss me before you go. For this world is full of mischances, And one of those may fall, That we two ne’er again in the firelight, Make our shadows upon the wall. Oh! then, once more in the parting- Alas! that it must be so- Leave me a fond benediction: Kiss me before you go. Written for me by, Miss Lucy O.Ely >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> My goodness alive, I feel so queer, When you approach, my lovely dear. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> If your love, like the ring, be free from alloy, I accept of your offer with gladness and joy. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> In the temptest of life, When each needs an umbrella, May yours be upheld, By some handsome young fellow. >>>>>>>>>>>> (pg31) My heart is in the keeping of one In Muscogee near a City; Sweetest-gentle man under the sun, So graceful,smart, handsome and witty. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Peace be around thee wherever thou rov’st; May life be for thee one summer’s day, And all that thou wishest and all that lov’st- Come smiling around thy sunny way. May time, who sheds his blight ore all, And daily dooms some joy to death. Ore thee let years so gently fall They shall not crush one flower beneath. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> When absent far from those we love, Is there a charm the heart can fetter? When time rolls on and still we rove. Is there no cure? ah! yes - a letter. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Be candid sir; kind and free. As I have always been with thee. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Thou’ll never find a heart more true Than mine, which plights it’s vows to you. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (pg32 drawing of a girl) (pg 33)Oct 7th 1880 Thursday, half after twelve oclock. I have just come from the spring helping to wash. I haven’t written any in a good while, so I must make up for lost time. Last Monday morning Aunt Susie and Olen came over to spend the day ,in the eve Exa came and brought some shirts to make. About four oclock Cousin Fannie and Cousin Willie came, it was raining some, they went home with Aunt Susie and came back here Tuesday. Cousin Anna spent the night with me. Exa ,the dear little creature, helped me to cook dinner and let Ma stay with Cousin Fannie and Aunt Susie, We had a nice dinner too, it was so good that I eat too much. Cousin Wiley went hunting with Oscar and didn’t come here untill time to go home, he says he is coming back and stay with us some. (pg 34)They went home that eve. Wednesday was election day, Tuesday eve Oscar came over and he and Buddie went over to Cousin Nicks, took supper there and Buddie ,cousin Nick and Cousin Ole Miller went up to the shops. Buddie went home with Gus, and they came back to the shop Wednesay. They voted for Norwood, but Colquit beat 50 odd votes, up there. I ironed untill three oclock that eve, then quit and eat my dinner. Tinie and Cousin Emma went to Cousin Mitties about that time, and stoped here awhile, as they went home. Pa and Buddie didn’t get back untill near sundown. After supper Buddie and I went to see Cousin Anna, sit till bedtime. This morning which is Thursday she went home. Buddie went to town. I thought sure that today was Friday. I don’t know how come me to thinks so. Nora. (pg 35)Oscar went to harris yesterday eve. Last Tuesday nignt when I went to milk it was raining. Eula had an umberrella over her and come up to hold it over me. I had a bucket of slop in my hand, she run against it and knocked some slop in my slipper, it diden’t feel good abit. Oct 10th Sunday morn I am left at home again. Ma and Pa have gone to Mt Moriah to meeting and Buddie has gone to the quartely meeting at Pearche Chapel, so Eula and I were left alone. Lizzie Palmer has come now . I believe I wrote up till last Thursday. Friday was a very unlikely day, rained in the morning. I had to dry the clothes by the fire as they diden’t dry the eve before. Exa came in the eve, did some stitching and then returned home. Saturday which was yesterday, Buddie (pg36)went by and carried Exa to town, we counted grey horses, we counted 50, we counted good many over again, then I diden’t shake hands with the one I wanted to either. Exa had her pictures taken, the negative seemed to be very good. We went in the show, it was very good. I saw several of my sweethearts in town,(I got me a calico dress). I had the pleasure of shaking hands with Mr. Billie Slaten again. He is as pretty as ever. It was past seven oclock when we got home. Ma went to preaching with Aunt Susie, Eula spent the day with Ora. It is now past eleven oclock and I must go and cook some dinner. Sunday night, All the chairs in this room are vacant tonight, except the one that I occupy, and my Flutena is in one. It is so lonely without any company. Sunday eves and nights. No one has been here this eve except(pg37) Lizzie. Ma and Pa came back from church awhile after two oclock. I couldn’t amuse myself otherwise, so I played with Lizzie and Eula, we went after some haws, when we came back I got my Flutena and played some for Lizzie, then she went home and I went and milked. Now I am sitting here by the little table writing to you journal. It seems as it the flies are having a Campmeeting in here, from the racket they keep. Buddie hasn’t come home yet. “ I am lonely tonight love without you.” Tuesday night-Oct 12th 1880 As I have been writing some I will write some in my journal. Yesterday morning Aunt Susie & Exa came over to make a pair of pants and a dress. Aunt Susie was speaking of going to(pg38) Harris Wednesday and wanted her dress so I helped Exa to make it,this morn Exa came back and we finished it today. Eula is going with Aunt Susie. I cut my dress out yesterday eve, Pa brought me a letter from Duck and Oscar, also ma one from Aunt Marie Knight. I have just finished a letter to sister and Duck. Pa got Eula a pair of shoes today.I must close and retire for tonight. “Little Nora V.Rodgers.” “In after years when memories bells are ringing, may one vibrate the name of your true and devoted friend.” Wednesday night Oct. 13th Eula, Uncle Sam and Aunt Susie left for Harris. Exa is left to keep house, it is well I guess that we all should try it some time. She came over & helped me on my new dress. I fitted it myself ,”wasn’t I smart”.(pg39) Aunt Fannie came up this eve. Pa and Buddie hauled up corn. all have gone to bed, except me, Buddie has gone to stay with Exa tonight to keep the boogers from catching her. I can’t write much tonight so “good bye”. “N” Last night was Exa’s birthday. Friday night Oct 15th 1880 Yesterday morning I worked on my dress, Ma cooked dinner, I finished it a while after dinner and Ma took it with her down to Cousin Mitties and worked the buttonholes, so that left me alone, I like solitude sometimes, I enjoy reflection. When the sun was getting low, I went out to milk. It sprinkled rain some, When Ma came back she brought me a letter that Cousin Anna had written to Exa and I. I was glad to receive it for I am always glad to the reception of a letter, makes no difference who it is from(if it is from my sweetheart). After we had eaten supper, Buddie and I went over(pg40) to stay with Exa,had a very nice time,les children.This morn we arose awhile after four oclock. Breakfast was prepared by Exa with a little assistance from me. When we were through eating Buddie and I came home to milk. I asked Pa if they were lonesome by themselves, he said “Yes”, Cousin Mittie came up this eve with Dovie,Buddie and Seranmms??? went hunting ,killed six squirrels. I have been washing and scouring today with the assistance of Sarah, so I am somewhat tired, therefore I can’t write much tonight, Bye Bye, and pleasant dreams. N.V.R. Saturday night Oct 16th What a dreary evening this has been,It has been raining nearly all the eve and is still raining. I diden’t get to stay with Exa tonight as I expected. Buddie went. I flatter myself to say that I know that she is somewhat disappointed, as well as myself. (pg41)This morning I ironed and looped two dresses for myself. After dinner I made a picture frame and brushed some in the house. Pa went to church and went by Mr. McCoy’s to see how they were getting along. Mr. Mc was gone to town. Miss Addie was in bed, she had been up yesterday and went to the dinner table, she thought she took cold. I do hope she will get well, but I am in hopes that she is willing to leave it with her God. Tuesday night. Oct 19th 1880 Do you wish to know what has passed since I wrote last? if so just listen. Last Sunday I went to church with Pa, Buddie rode horseback. The preacher had his new buggy there. Mr. Shirley Palmer brought his wife by here, and left her, he went to meeting and came back with us. It was very cold. Eddie, Jimmie and Mr S.Haines came ,also Mr.(pg42)Rees and Joe, we went to the singing. There was not very many there. I went home with Exa. we staid at her house with the ballance of the children, until after dark when Buddie, Gus,Nath,Jimmie, Eddie and Monk came. We had a very nice time. Monday morning I came home, did my mornings work and carded bats to put in a quilt for myself. That night while I was milking,Exa came and after supper, Gus and Willie came in his wagon with a small violin and a base, they played some here first and we went down to Mr. S.Palmer, we went very fast.We had a very pleasant time and just as much nice cane as we could eat.As we were coming home my chair went backwards with me against Willie and his went back on the base fiddle and bursted it. I guess Willie thought it very awkward in me,but I couldn’t help it, Gus pulled me up. We carried Exa home(pg 43) and Gus and Willie serenades Uncle Sam and Aunt Susie, then we came home. I am quite thoughtless. I forgot to thank Gus for his kindness, in carrying me down there. It was half past twelve when we got home. Today Pa went to town, I carded bats again..A freedman came and started to diging a well. I went over to Exa’s this eve and got one of her pictures. I guess you are tired of reading this so I will quit.” I hope some one is thinking something good about me, as my face is burning so bad” Nora Monday night. Oct 25th It has been a week since I wrote any in here so I must make up for lost time. Wednesday I put in my quilt in the morning and in the eve helped Exa to quilt .Thursday I quilted a little on my quilt in the eve.Duck and her boys,Sister, Theophilus and Mr.George came,they brought cotton. we all went to town. (pg 44)Friday I had my pictures taken, Sister got a necklace.Saturday they went home.We ironed.Sunday Sister and Buddie went to Bethel, Pa and Ma went to Aunt Susies, so Eula and I kept house,or it kept us rather.,In the eve Gus came not long after,Exa came,before sundown Mr Haines and Willie came. When Exa went home Gus and I went to the Orchard gate with her,when we got back Anna and Joe was here. Eddie came after awhile.They all went home. Today Exa came and helped me to quilt. tonight sister and Buddie have gone to Mr. Davids,I staid home to write some letters.I have just finished them, there fore I am cold and can’t write much, not taking time to fix it up in the style that suits me..My ears are burning tonight. I wish I knew whether anyone was always talking about when they burn or not. Nora (pg.45) Novenber 1st 1880 It has been edzackly a week since I wrote any, so I guess I must try to make up for lost time. I have almost forgotten what has passed this last week,up til Saturday anyway. Saturday morning we ironed and in the eve we swept the yards. Buddie helped us. When we had finished, Sister and I got ready to go down to Anna’s.. Gus came about that time so we diden’t go untill after supper. We went by after Exa, haden’t got far before her rubber shoe came off.I cut the string out of my hat for her to tie it on with, when we got there Mr. Nath Haines was there. Willie came after awhile. We had a glorious time again, they brought in as much cane as we could eat again.,after awhile they brought in some cake and lemmonade, which we enjoyed hughly. Joe came back with Exa,and Nath with Sister.(pg46)Exa came home with us.They all stayed all night. It was past twelve oclock.Sunday we all went home with Exa. Buddie went up to Mrs.Davids and Brittie came back with him to Uncle Sam’s. Mr SPalmer and wife were also there, plenty of company. We enjoyed ourselves splendidly, or at least I did. (Judging the rest by myself) Nath and Gus came back with us, Gus promised me a nickel for catching “Old Sigh”, and putting the saddle on for him. They both left before dark, while I was milking ,Willie came,brought us two stalks of cane, that Joe had sent us. We thanked him very much for it.After dinner Buddie and Brittie went to see Miss Bella Fischacher..We quilted today. I have a severe cold today. I dont know where I caught it.Exa came over a while this eve, she has one too. I am getting cold, so I must quit and go to the fire. “Good Night”. N. (pg 47) Sunday night Nov 7th As we haven’t any company tonight, I will write some. I dont have time to write but once a week, and I forget most that passes. Exa and Aunt Susie has been over here part of the week making Uncle Sam a suit and other garments. Exa came everyday except Saturday. I have had a severe cold this week. We made sister and Ma a dress apiece this week. Friday night Gus came down, he and Buddie went to the party at Mr. Keys. He brought me some moss, which I swung on the tree and named it my sweetheart(of course). I am in hopes it will live. Saturday Buddie and Gus started down to Cousin John Mc Murrians ,they haven’t got back yet. Ma and Pa went up to Mrs. Davids and spent the day. Willie, Eddie and Jimmie came after dinner, awhile (pg 48)Brittie and Nath came, it was not long then before Exa, Billie and Sallie came, we had a very nice time. They all left before sundown, then sister and I milked. I came in, read some and listen to Eula read some, now I am writing,scribling or whatever you may call it. I guess Buddie and Gus have stopped somewhere to see their sweethearts. Good by journal. April 3rd 1881 Mr. Chas O???? Columbus,Ga. Miss Mollie Owens Charles H. Owens Esq. “My Own true friend” Two weeks have elapsed since I was made the happy recipient of your sweet and most welcome epistle. You have no idea how much pleasure it affords me toknow that you would condesend to respond tomy poor letters. It seemed that I had a real treat in (pg 49) store, It has been read and reread, and still I love to read it. I dont know as I have any news worth penning that would be interesting to you. All of the family have gone from home today except Eula and I so I will take advantage of the still hours by writing to you. Last Tuesday Miss Savannah Shafner came out to spend a week with us, she came from Pike Ala., last Monday, was on the train that the accident happened, said she say a good many down at ??? but didn’tknow who they were, she was looking in the album and saw Watts and cousin Charlies pictures, said she saw them there. She and Sister have gone up to Mr.Deans to spend the day. Mama and Papa have gone to Aunt Susies. a young man made an engagement with me last night to carry me out to church today, I didnt tell him for certain whether I would go or not, I thought I would have to stay at home, about ten oclock here he came (pg 50) sailing up. Buddie had to go out and tell him how it was, he jumped in and went in my place. Don’t you know I was badly disappointer. This young man never had asked me to ride with him before, it was Jimmie Palmer, Willies cousin. why in the world didn’t you write something about him. He doesn’t know that I have heard from you yet. I hate to tell him for I know he will be disappointed, because he said he was very anxious to hear what you would have to say about him. Laying all jokes aside, I think he is teribly smitten, I had no idea I could influence him so much. I think I could get you married for a little. Let me tell you, we had ten young men to call on us last Sunday eve,one of them was from near Octavie, one from Hood, one from near Cataula and one from Columbus, the rest live in this neighborhood. Some of them came quite unexpected. Mr. Theophilus Murrah came down from(pg 51) Hood, Saturday he and Mr. Zeke Miller form Columbus came out and spent the day. do ;you enjoy such large crowds? I don’t , of course I like to have company but when so many ,I fear some one will think that I didn’t pay them the propper attention that I ought . I can’t talk to all, but I think sister and I chatted them all very well. I am glad to hear that you still have hopes for your Abbeville fellow. You asked me if I didn’t give N? his checks, no I didn’t have the chance. I told you all he would not hunt this mule.,he has mules nearer by that he likes better by far, than this one.I wonder if he is coming the twenty six,(26),can’t you all come up then? I would be so glad to see you.Company has come so I must quit for this time. Monday eve. April 4th.I will try and see if I can finish this,this evening.Gus came yesterday eve, also Messers Nath Haines and Tommie(pg 52)Livingston, we had a very pleasant time indeed,Gus is keeping “Bachelors Hall”, he has been after sister to give him a bonnet to hang on his bed post to make it look like there is a woman about, so yesterday eve she gave him the oldest one she could find,that hadn’t seen any starch in two years, thought he wouldn’t have it, but he put it on and went off with it.Sister told him she bet Anna,his cook,would have it on before long, he said he would bet her ten bales of cotton, she wouldn’t. There is to ba a party at Mr. Keys tonight, he used to live down there somewhere. We don’t expect to attend. Did you get any April fools? I haven’t heard of any yet. I am in hopes that ,that chicken has gotten well of the Cholera, I also hope no other “chickens “ will catch the disease. I must close as I cant find(pg53)any thing else to write. I fear what I have written will not interest you. Please excuse chirography and all errors, my pen is bad and I am cold,alsodo not let any one see it and as you say we will ever be friends.Several month have passed since first our hearts were united by the mystic bonds of friendship and still that the tie is unbroken. May the stream of affection still roll on and bind more closly the love of two dear friends.Write soon and a long letter, as before. Your devotedly. Nora. Apr 30th 1881 Please pardon me for not responding ere this, as I had no news worth relating. I thought I would wait till after decoration day. I had no idea of meeting with you there. I can’t hardly realize it, seems almost like a dream ,was with you all so little. I didn’t know(pg 54) you and Mr. Lee were there until I saw you at the gallery. I was very sorry indeed that I couldn’t bring Miss Carry home with me. I could have brought her home with us, but I couldn’t send her back the next day, as Papa is so busy in the farm now that I couldn’t stop a horse. I am affraid she will think I didn’t want her to come, but I can assure her that I dearly love for my friends to visit me. Although I was not with you all much, it refreshed my memory of my visit down there. I shall be remembered one of the happy epoches of my life. The crowd that I introduced you to, tried very hard to tease me as soon as you left, said I scared you out there ,too many of them. I though perhaps you were going to stay with us awhile was the reason(pg 55) that I introduced you to them. You and Mr. Lee spent the night inColumbus, did you not? I must tell you of the nice present I received that day and who the donor was. It was a nice autograph album ,presented by Mr. George White, it is very pretty. Ive got a bought one now. Wish I was near enough by for you all to write some in it. I have been house keepen this week, (the house kept me)Sister and I take it time about, Mama went up to my sisters, Mrs Murrah last Sunday ,will stay two or three weeks. She lives four miles the other side of Hamilton. Sunday night. Well I will try and finish this tonight. Last night, two young men came in and I couldnt finish. There is one here now but I hardly think he came to see me, so I’ll slip out(pg 56) and write to you.We started our singing this eve, at our little school house, a few yards from here. I do enjoy them so much. I wish it was convenient for you to come over and help us eat strawberries, we have so many now,gathered near eleven quarts one day. I think you are right about the “wise rivalry”. I received a letter from Donie Coleman stating that she had heard that I refused to let him call on me and didn’t know the reason, said she didn’t know as I would find anyone more intertaining than he is,said she guessed that I spent a great deal of time answering Mr.Smiths letters. I guess she had heard that we corresponded, but she was mistaken. The girls that I introduced you to are very anxious to see your(pg 57) picture. Make haste and sent it.Did you all go out to the cemetery that eve? I must close as it is near bedtime, I am somewhat drowsy tonight, twas after twelve oclock when we retired last night. Pleas excuse this badly composed and written letter. wishing you joy and happy dreams, I sign myself as eve, your friend. V.N. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> The next pages (pages 58-59-60-61)are very hard to read, so therefore, I made a typewritten copy of them.P.N.O. /Apr.7,2000. >>>>>>>>>>>>>> enclosed is a copy also of the back inside cover of the journal that includes this short poem. >>>>>>>>>> May wisdon and truth guide you through youth, And catnip and sage cheer your old age. >>>>>>>>>>>>. Also this ::::: Mr.Gus Gibsons bad works /////// >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> There were also a number of pages missing from the back of the journal. (pg 58) 1883 Columbus ,Ga.June 14th. Elder J.C.?W.Henderson Dear Brother: I have been impressed, ever since I joined the Primative Baptist, to write for publication ??? some of the lords dealing with me as I hope. Please excuse my weak manner of expressing it. Where I joined the church, I felt so little and so weak that I could not relate my experience as I desired. I have always felt that there was ???? who wished to know more about. I became very much humbled about my condition in 1879. I knew there would have to be a change made and a great one too before I could be saved. I went to an association in September. I felt that I was deceiving everybody that knew me. Some of the members of the church had something to say to me concerning myself, but I talked to them as if nothing was the matter with me. Why is it that when a person is brought to feel themselves a sinner they don't care to own it? (pg 59) I felt that everybody was being deceived about me, that they thought the lord was dealing with me. When it seemed to me that satan was my leader and the end would be destruction. Dear Christians you all know and can tell my feelings at that period better than I can, by your own experience. There was a cousin of mine who was traveling the same road at that time. It was a great comfort to us both to get together and exchange our feelings. It always seemed that she had better evidence of being led of God than I did. I prayed God forgive my sins. Relieve me of my troubles for they seemed more than I could bear. I don't know as my burden left me at any particular time, I remember one night of being very low down, it seemed that I felt the weight of my sins more than ever.(pg 60) I thought I couldn't ??? that way much longer, but this thought crossed my mind" the darkest hour is just before day.", the next day I remembered telling my cousin that I felt that my sins were forgiven, that they had all been washed and then I wanted to join the church. I promished myself the next opportunity afforded, I would offer myself to the church and see if they would receive me, but where it was offered I was turned back. The thought would come to me that it was all my imagination and I would go on as I had before, enjoy this worlds pleasures and not let such as that bother me. It wasn't long before I wished my troubles back, I felt that I hadn't been chastised enough ,this thought consold one, if it was the lords work, it would be finished, but I had no peace of mind until I did. In j??? the church it was the second Saturday in(pg 61)September 1881, when my cousin and I both went forward and were received at Mt. Moriah church, and baptized the next day. It was a great cross, but thank God I felt that I had done my duty. I feel that there is some others that if they would only do their duty that they would have ??? sweet, peace of mind that came to me after I joined the church, I did not ??? that way long ??? before doubts and fears would come and go, sometimes I can go on my way and rejoicing and feel that I have a great hope, and then again I am affraid that I have never been changed at all. Dear brother, I am a stranger to you in flesh but I hope not in the spirit. My name is Rodgers, I married in December 1881, I want you to pray for me and my husband. I fear I have been too lengthy, if you(pg 62) think it worthy of a place on your paper, please correct all errors,mistakes and publish it, if not cast it aside in your waste basket and I hope all will be right. Your unworthy sister if one at all. Nora Gibson ======================== USGENWEB NOTICE: In keeping with our policy of providing free information on the Internet, data may be freely used by non-commercial entities, as long as this message remains on all copied material. These electronic pages cannot be reproduced in any format for profit or other presentation. The submitter has given permission to the USGenWeb Archives to store the file permanently for free access.