1877-78 NY Woman’s Personal Diary-FULL! 17 Hand-Sewn Pages, Faith & Loneliness
$ 126.2
Description
1877-78 NY Woman’s Personal Diary-FULL! 17 Hand-Sewn Pages, Faith & Loneliness. The diary contains entries throughout 1877 and into 1878 describing Original 1877 diary in well-used antique condition. Cloth case shows expected age wear, rubbing, and light soiling. Interior binding intact with typical hinge wear. Offered here is an original FULL 1877 printed “Perpetual Diary” by a married rural woman in Cattaraugus County, New York, continuing into 1878. This is not simply a farm log. It is a deeply personal, faith-filled, community-centered diary documenting daily life in Western New York in the late 1870s. The writer even hand-sewed 17 additional manuscript pages into the volume after filling the printed pages; a remarkable and personal modification that shows how important this record was to her. The diary contains entries throughout 1877 and into 1878 describing: Sabbath observance and Sunday School (“S.S.”) Regular “Meeting” at “the Hollow.” Sermons by Elder Field. Travel to Lyndon, Machias, Franklinville, and Farmersville Husband working at Mr. Webber’s farm. Selling eggs at “the Center.” Illness in her family and the community. The death of a friend’s daughter (Cora Howe). Named families including Howe, Eastland, Churchill, Thomas, Slater, Robinson, Smith, and Ashcroft. Personal reflections, devotionals, and repeated expressions of loneliness, which was rare in those days. She identifies her daughters: Edith (born October 30, 1859 – turned 18 in 1877) Ethel (born March 18, 1870 – turned 7 in 1877) Her husband is referred to by first initial “G.” Despite extensive research, the diarist has not yet been identified, offering an intriguing research opportunity for genealogists and local historians. Physical Details Original brown cloth folding case with gilt “DIARY” label. Red page edges. 17 hand-sewn additional manuscript pages. Approx. 6 inches in length. Condition Original 1877 diary in well-used antique condition. Cloth case shows expected age wear, rubbing, and light soiling. Interior binding intact with typical hinge wear. Pages show normal age toning. The 17 sewn-in pages remain securely attached. Writing is in pencil and generally legible, though occasionally light, faded, or hurried in places. An authentic and complete 19th-century manuscript with honest signs of use. Has a typical aged-paper scent consistent with 19th-century materials. No strong smoke or mildew odors detected. A compelling and intimate primary source of rural women’s religious and community life in post-Civil War New York. Please review all photos carefully and feel free to ask questions.
