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An Odyssey of a Trio of
Yeager Brothers
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This diary was recently submitted by Robert
Yeager III - a huge thank you for sharing your family treasure with Marion
County researcher.
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Introduction: This
diary/journal was given to me by my Father’s sister, Aunt Jo, who was a
daughter of the Robert (Bob) Yeager who was one of the trio in the journey.
John Redd Yeager
Also, she gave me the wedding ring belonging to her grandmother, Emily
Pollard Brown, wife of John Redd Yeager. Aunt Jo and her sister, Lillian had
done some rudimentary research into their Yeager genealogy and planted a
seed of interest in me which did not germinate until about 15 years after
her death in 1986. Then I jumped in and, with a lot help from others, traced
our lineage back from me into Mo, then in KY, and finally in the colonies to
Germanna Colony II, VA in 1717 (all documented). Our immigrant, Nicholaus
Jager was born and lived in Falkenstein, Germany before coming to the
Colony, VA.
This diary has always
intrigued me but I could only read bits and pieces which made me more
desirous of understanding it. It sort of surprised me to learn I was living
with a lady who had a knack for deciphering such things. The writing was
very good but 122 years had deteriorated the paper and writing. Margery, my
wife spent hours with a magnifying glass and a dictionary, and a minute
amount of help from me, finally got it all done except for a couple of words
which were either very colloquial or names of places that no longer existed
as that name at least.
I hope that this effort
helps people doing historical or genealogical work, besides supplying some
pleasure and amusement.
Sincerely,
Robert Lee Yeager III
Email: [email protected]
[email protected]
Fax
# - 1-662-843-8411
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Time Period
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June 17, 1884
through July 23, 1884
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Where
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From Palmyra,
Marion County to Willow Springs, Howell County, MO From NE MO to S.
Central, MO
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Mode of
Travel
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Two Horses,
covered wagon and a carriage
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Purposes
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Seemingly, 3 or
4 purposes: a. checking out farm land, b. looking into teaching
jobs, c. possibly seeking adventure
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Who
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1. Edward Rufus Yeager, b. 22 Jun 1856, 28 yrs. old, oldest and
author of this diary/journal
2. Robert Lee Yeager I, b. 1 Mar 1863, second eldest, my (Robert Lee Yeager, III)
later to become my Grandfather. Probably, as a result of this trip,
bought a farm and fathered 6 children in Howell Co. Also taught
school in Howell Co., d. 7 Feb 1911. Left a widow and 4 young
children, but that’s another story
3. James William Yeager, b 21 Aug 1865. Not very long,
maybe 5
years after, J.W. (Uncle Billy) went out West and worked on
railroads, surveying mostly, but some other actually on the train.
He was out there until his brother died in 1911, then came back to
Howell County and married his sister-in-law, Emily, the widow with 4
young children and they stayed married until she died in 1941. He
lived with Robert Lee Yeager, II (my father) and our family until he
died in March 1955.
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Diary/Journal
of E. R. Yeager 1884
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Tuesday,
June 17, 1884
Fully
equipped and fully prepared to enjoy some life on Tuesday morning in high
spirits. We, viz. R.L, J.W., and E.R. Yeager start on our long anticipated
trip to Howell Co. MO. Bidding adieu to home friends (and the girls we left
behind) we are soon on the road to experiencing for the first time the life
of an immigrant. About 8 a.m. we reach the “city of flowers”. We here
find a primary election taking place in the straight Democrat ticket. Bros.
finish voting. At 10:00 we leave Palmyra and In 2 hours we lunch at South
River Spring. After dinner we pass through West Oly (Ely?) a charming city.
Turning West through Ralls comes on Marion and Ralls being within 4 miles of
Monroe only having traveled 22 miles. Stretch our tent and bed about 10:00
enter the arms of Morpheus. Hunting a stream to camp made us so late. Our
first experience camping out and are well pleased. Bob installed Cook or
Chief of Commission and Will, hostler. Going to have rabbit for breakfast.
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Wednesday
June 18
Gone
from home and forgot my pillow. Did not rest as well as could wish. Bed too
short. Stopped in Ralls, ate breakfast in Monroe. Our rabbit is o.k. Arose
at 4:00 o’clock and pulled out at 6:15a.m. Entered Marion City at 8:30 and
purchase corn and mail a postal. Here met Ed Longmire whom I had not seen in
a long time. Pass through some fine prairie on our way from Monroe County on
our way to Monroe City to shrinks or Elizabethtown also called Indian Creek
on the banks of which we enjoy our noonday meal consisting of Old Virginia
home grown bacon. After our repast we sit n the shade enjoying a cigar while
we hear the “band”“Bob and his guitar’ Pull out at half past 1 on
our way to ‘Honda(or Florida) distance 8 miles. Here or near here we
intend pitching our tent for the tonight Having a dandy time do not decamp
until two. Bound for *Honda and find rough traveling all afternoon. Several
hills which boys call “Boston Mountains” of Mexico.
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Thursday,
June 19
*Honda,
a very nice and business like town has two flour mills, one saw mill, &
saw & flour mill combined. Did not rain as expected. For breakfast ham
and fried eggs “boss eating.” At 7 am. we resume our rough and rocky
road to Mexico. Find some rough roads until we strike the prairie. At noon
we lunch at what is called Elmo creek a-—prong of Salt River. We fish some
and bring out a few minnows. At two p.m. push Southward and in a short time
strike Adrain line. Like its land better than Monroe County. Crops look more
promising. At 6:30 we tire out having gone today upward of 20 miles. Are
about 5 or 6 miles from Mexico. Looks like rain. Grazing here is too good to
last always.. stayed out today till noon. Old Vizgilly getting mighty slim.
Go to bed early and stay our first night in Asidrain Co.
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Friday,
June 20
Have
gotten the sleeping business down to a fine point now as we took but one nap
and all night long rain. Arise about 4 o’clock and make breakfast of quail
on toast, good coffee etc. Quail, broiled and seasoned-Well, good enough for
a king. Bread nearly out. I must wash dishes and then onward to Mexico. Feel
at home now sitting back in my easy chair washing dishes. 6 a.m. down to
Mexico about 8 and a half o’clock and now supposed to find a business like
town.
A
real lovely place with quite a city like air about it, 3 or 4 livery
stables, 2 or more banks and good streets. Court House in the square and
stores all around it. A number of nice residences and one or more factories,
one a soap factory. Had our horses shod and renew our gubbly of meat Leave
at 10 o’clock on our way to Jeff City via Fulton. Hear of good fishing in
the Auxvasse river distance 16 mile which we want to reach by night about
noon lunch at a spring 5 miles from Mexico. Our old ham which stood by us
which has been growing bountifully less, vanished. Being much refreshed we
at 1:30p.m. push toward Auxzvasse hoping to get fish for supper. Roads
splendid. This afternoon we are advance again to Barret’s great show at
Mexico. We leave our wagon, buggy and hones with bills and as we pass
through Auxvasse we laugh to see the natives stare. Old gray headed man
enters into the merriment as we cry the show at Mexico. Big, little, old,
young, they all will go to the show in Mexico. Auxvasse is small R R station
with half dozen stores. Soon come to Auxvasee worn out go into camp for the
night rain pouring down. Tried to fish some- water too muddy. Ground wet and
everything damp, but we put in a good night’s sleep and woke up much
refreshed.
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Saturday
June 21
A
bright morning and dense foggy. Squirrel for breakfast and good coffee this
time. Nothing of interest to record. A little after 7 we are on our way to
Fulton. So far do not like Calloway country. 12 miles from Auxvasee to
Fulton. Find road very heavy this morning from rains. Cross the “Boston
Mountains” of Calloway. We meet everybody going to the show in Mexico the
result of our extensive advertisement yesterday. At 1:30 we hold in suberbs
of Fulton and take lunch consisting of bread, butter and water. Old Shep
still with us and proves a faithful old watch dog. Have a glimpse of Fulton
from our temporary camping ground. We shortly pass throon the extreme limits
to spend the Sabbath. Our horses pretty
well
tired so lay over tomorrow and start fresh for Jefferson City Monday. Go
through Fulton about 2 p.m. and see the Insane Asylum, A large and
commodious building. Also deaf and dumb institute. Hunted up and down and at
last succeded. A business place of 2000 inhabitants. After passing through
and taking in the sights we searched for and uide for suitable camping
grounds, but in vain. Push on to Middle Creek distance 5 miles. Here we camp
by “the branch” and stretch out tent just in time for the rain which
comes pouring down. Big steak for supper. Delicious! Slept soundly and all
well until the sun came creeping through the crevices of our tent reminding
us that it is time to getup.
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Sunday
June 22
Wake
up on Sunday morning to find we have camped by a daisy little girl of
Callaway county. We call her Daisy Carrington of Middle Creek. Beef steak
for breakfast. Wash and dress up to go to church and hear our first sermon
of Calloway county. A regular Methodist sermon. The people stare and Bob and
I put on dog. I see my kids puffin a cigar and Bob strutting around making
more than a few mashes. One was so much affected she had to leave the house
and about 6 more went out with water to throw in her face. Bob is terribly
sorry for her. We come back to camp. I see Miss Daisy— tip my hat and make
a mash. Banter Bob to take some of my birthday cake to her and after
promising to, backs square down. Wants me to send my cake to the Old maw,
but nary time. I ain’t around sending cake to “old maw” this year.
This is leap year. I write my card compliments of the Marion Co. boys and
Bob grows weak in the knees and shows the White Father. Finally we effect a
compromise by my writing “please accept a piece of my birthday cake with
comps of E.R.Yeager.” He braves up starts off whistling to keep up courage
and delivers my cake, and berries come back with a big yarn a yard or two In
length about what Daisy said about my being too forward & c & c
& c. That ‘s all o.k. then asked why we didn’t come for cream to go
with our berries. So much for my Daisy girl of Calloway Co. until tomorrow.
This mornings discourse takes from l9~~ chapter of St. Matthew. Expected to
have steak for dinner but found when going to cook that it was N. G. I am 28
years old today. My cake and raspberries go finally. Observe the Sabbath day
except for boiling our ham of shoulder which is a case of necessity.
Rained
after coming from church and eat dinner in wagon. Can’t wait till tomorrow
to record the result of my cake episode. Turn the laugh on the boys when the
old maw hands me a loaf of light bread and a glass of jelly nicely wrapped
up and a button hole bouquet which attached by dainty fingers is a card with
compliments of A.E. Carrington wishing Mr. Mosey man happy birthday. Boys
fire a pistol and make on wagon bed a long mark for the daisy girl of
Calloway Co. I score one for the girls if all be like daisy Carrington. Read
some In Testament and retire early hoping for an early start for the Capital
of Old Missouri.
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Monday,
June 23rd
Got
up about 41/2 a.m. prepare breakfast Pull up stakes get things to rights and
start for Cedar City distance 18 miles. Heavy roads after rain of yesterday.
With many regrets having to leave “Daisy” my darting girl of Calloway.
Slowly we wend our way until we come to a farm house where peeps through
window upstairs another daisy who waves her hands in reponse to waving my
old straw. Quite a flirtation with quite a pretty girl. After going up and
down a few hills we come to what is laid on our map as New Bloomfield but
what I would call a dirty hole in which live a few whites, negroes &
hogs- more especially coons and pigs. Pass on to Herbinia a very cosy little
station on C & A R.R. We are told it is 2 miles to a stream of water by
one and 2 and a half by another & so on.
We
finally descend the Boston Mts. Of Cal. and come for noon by a little branch
which I term Willow Creek. After lunch it poured down rain and now we are in
our wagon waiting for it to stop before going on to Cedar City, distance two
miles. Rain soon over and we pull through mud to Cedar City, which we find
to be a dirty little hole with no accommodations. Drive on to an excuse for
a ferry boat managed by a cut throat set who tax us $1.75 for ferriage. Are
now in Capital of great state of MO where we pay well for everything. We got
4 loaves of bread for 25 cents where in Mexico we got six. Everything else
proportionately high. Enquire road to St Thomas & soon are hunting a
camping place amond hills of Cole Co. Go South 2 or 2 and half miles and
come to branch. We are late getting to bed and must sleep on wet ground. The
Morcass(?) river only short distance ahead. Did not know it until we had
pitched. Got a letter from Father, our first mail from home.
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Tuesday,
June 24th
Were
tired out last night but after good nights rest and bread butter broiled
meat and coffee are much refreshed and ready to resume our march over what
we term the Boston Mountains of Cole County. Light my cigar and prepare to
wash dishes in our frying pan. Pull out at 7 o’clock over the rough and
rocky hills over the “Germany of Cole county. Come to a house with sign
“Lager Beer. Tried to get some water. No go. Got some beer as substitute,
but we don’t like it. Too dutchy. After traveling 2 miles over a miserable
road we reach Osage river and after several yells to ferryman across the
river and waiting an hour he finally puts in an appearance in a tub of a
boat rowed by hand. We after a while get across . first the buggy then the
wagon. A “daisy boat” and a daisies ferry maw. Osage quite a stream.
Steamboat went down yesterday. It is 10 o’clock now and homes as well as
ourselves almost starved. Feed and prepare our noon day repast Kill a brace
of quails which will be served for breakfast Last of birthday cake for
dinner. For the first time some of Daisy’s light bread, and buffer, and
jelly. It is simply immense In the extremity. Only 4 miles to St Thomas so
say the natives, but it takes us all Evening to get there. See some fine
wheat on our way hither and Bob runs across an expert for Excelsion . St
Thomas which is to Dutchland what Strausburg is to Germany binder.One saloon
& 2 or 3 stores, boarding house etc.etc. and large church going up. Cows
on common os St. Thomas. While we pitch our tent the buxom lassies far and
wide around look with wonder on. Everyone gives the word “a circus has
come to town” From appearances think this is the seat of
Catholocism.Evidently the name would indicate such. Supper fried eggs,
butter our purchase at St Thomas bacon bread and coffee. Our second night
among hills of Cole Co.
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Wednesday,
June 23rd
Just
before retiring last night the natives attracted by our music and singing
come flocking into our tent stareing , grinning. One fellow who is an
awfully good driver and awful good company for the girls Being a regular
box. Whole of town in exstasy because of forsooth of a little music on the
guitar. We load our ‘six guns” for bear (for dutch) and soon are
snoozing away. Wake up this morning and all is serene. Quail on toast for
breakfast fried eggs again and little black dutch lass sits by the window
casting sheep eyes at us apparently regretting our departing. Another Cole
Co. daisy. Ha Ha
Pull
up stakes at 7 o’clock and off to Pulaski County. Soon change our minds
about going through Pulaski Co. and will go via Vieanna in Harris to Rolla
in Phelps Co. Are told it is a much better road than via Waynsville. Eat
dinner In Harris Co. after passing over some comparatively good road and
crossing over what is known as Sugar Creek. Some splendid wheat in the
lowlands and everybody harvesting. Think of my Cal daisy as I eat the last
of her jelly. Jelly out little bread and ditto butter, ditto pickles and
meat Running short and nearest town 15 miles. At 2 p.m. (when Bob and Will
finish their geography lesson) we slowly climb the hills of Harris towards
the county seat via Vienna. Pass through some better county this afternoon
and pretty fair crops. See some best wheat that have seen this season. Am
not much in love with Harris though. Black Jack scrub oak and rocks. Cross
what we call Willow Creek Time to camp but no drinking water. Push on till
we come to Spring and branch 8 miles from Vienna where we go to camp out in
the hills of Harris Co.
Mush
and meat and coffee for supper and the lady gives us a pound of butter and
promises to make us some bread. Tired and hungry and do ample justice to our
meager repast Have been in 3 counties today from Cole through corner of
Osage into Harris. Sleep soundly up early Eat hearty meal of mush & eggs
& soon begin another days travel. The good lady failed to show up on
bread question as she was called from home last night Hope to make a raise
at Vienna. At 7 o’clock ready to pull out on
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Thursday
June 26th
The
little creek we crossed yesterday and dubbed Willow Creek proved to be
little Marias. We bump hills and down until about 10. We cross the Marias
river proper and then strike the town of Junna? A sickly puny excuse for a
town where we can find no Corn no cheese no bread no nothing. We become
disgusted and finally turn our backs so insignificant a little place. Push
on to Gasconade 4 miles distance to reach when we cross Boston mtns of
Maries Co. Being out of bread we get a farmers wife to make us some biscuits
and they are sooners Great big soggy India rubber fellows of huge dimension.
We drive on a pulley and tackle ferry Boat and thus span the Gasconade after
which try our 3 stony biscuits but no go. They will last a long time. Bob
and Will try to fish some but no luck. Are now 18 miles from Rolla Phelps
County. From where I sit in the wagon I see two of Maries Co. daisies
plowing corn with their gloves on. I mark they are kind of girl I’m going
to get me in Howell County for a wife. Travel all afternoon on a kind of
ridge. Very good road. Some patches of fine wheat & corn. Am aiming for
Spring Creek by night Meet a man moving from Arkansas who passed through the
section of country we are going to. Speaks in glowing terms of land on
Jack’s Fork Texas Co. Likes Texas better than anything he’s passed
through. We go into camp on a branch Near boundry line of Maries and are
about nine miles from Rolla. While unhitching, one of our horses gets its
forefoot in bridle rein Rears & plunged & falls upon wagon tongue
and breaks it. Blacksmith Shop near by & soon have It repaired. Our
rations getting pretty low. None of us could eat the hardtack biscuits for
supper. Even old Shep became insulted because we offered him some. Want to
get a square meal when we reach Rolla. Our meager supper being disposed of
and everything made secure for the night we retire to rest having put in a
good day’s travel it being a cool and cloudy day.
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Friday,
June 27th
Up
early but do not get off until rather late. Bound for Rolla we start off in
fine spirits and after crossing Spring Creek twice we are within boundry of
Phelps county. Ascend and descend what we think are part of Ozark mountains.
As we near Rolla some lovely country. Get to Rolla about 11 o’clock and
replenish our stock of groceries. Bread and c c. Pass by Rolla School of
Mines a nice imposing structure.Write postal home and start South on road to
Houston Texas County. Come for noon at a small branch in edge of town and
relish some good bakers bread & butter once more. We lay in a good
supply of provisions here as we will be out of civilization 2 or 3 days.
The
train comes in while we let our team and the boys are awful glad to see a
train of cars once more. It seems as natural as life after being out in the
brush so long where the steam cars are an unknown quantity. Having taken
wrong road we turn back to town and purchase more bread and c. Want to be
sure and safe about bread question as Hardtack goes against the grain.
Nothing of particular interest until we call a halt at Rock Springs about 10
miles South of Rolla. Here we go into camp to spend our first night in
Phelps co. A good camping ground and fine Spring out in the Wilds? of
Phelps. We give our dinner box a thorough going through and cleansing. Our
grease bottle broke and runs over everything but soap and water is the
remedy.
Beef
steak, good butter and bread and excellent coffee give us a square meal once
more. More to which we do ample justice after being Two days on hard
“tack”. Go to bed tired out and put in good nights sleep. Old Shep kept
watch faithfully all night and a man coming to Spring for water has to go
around him. Could not do without Shep.
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Saturday,
June 28th
Slept
late this morning as we were unusually tired last night. Kept our steak in
Rock Spring all night and butter also and both are as fresh and savory as
could wish. After a hearty breakfast has braced us up we prepare to bid a
final adieu to the hills of old Phelps. We have good roads being on a ridge
all the way to Houston so say those whom we have “tapped” as we call it
when we stop a fellow and put questions to him. After going a mile or more
we pass from Phelps into Dent county. Are much better pleased with land than
in Phelps. Not so broken. Soon come to he little town of Lecomas, rather a
P. O. store, blacksmith, mill and 4 or 5 dwellings. The miller mistakes me
for an old fanner going to mill and cries “hem, here, old man is the mill.
Crack my whip at him and drive on. Pass on see nothing of interest until we
come by house and in road two men talking. One has farm to sell and is
anxious. Wants us to go 6 miles to look at it 165 acres for $2300. and cow
he has for $1800. as there is some crooked mess behind the scenes. Don’t
like Dent well enough to purchase.
Stop
here in shade to lunch. Have been looking for our first deer for two or
three days but nary deer yet. They say there are deer among these hills but
are very scattering. Will saw an old “Billy goat” in the road and so
excited was he and so sure he saw a deer that is was all Bob could do to
keep him from shooting it Bob says he had “Buck ague” and was about to
shoot with no cap on gun. No “deer’ but plenty of “dears” In the
brush and hills. After dinner try to get some corm from the man hoping to
lay over till tomorrow, Sunday. And we drive 3 miles to another house but he
too is out. Will camp here till Monday not by branch this time but by pond
close by a house. Just 2 miles from Houston-Texas county. Ho?? some of old
Mans cherries which I am trying to dispose of. Must feed lightly tonight and
tomorrow to make our food hold out until Monday. More anow. Each of us wash
out a shirt a piece & handkerchiefs. Our first experience in wash tub
but must have a clean shirt for next week hence make a virtue of necessity.
Two daisy girls pass by our camp and they are daisies. Maybe will see them
at church tomorrow. Bob gives natives a serenade on guitar and they think it
grand. Sup early and retire to rest at a late hour. Boys spinning big yarns
to those gathered around our campfire. We sleep our first night in Dent
county having as we thought everything secure before bedtime but on.
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When we woke up 10 and behold our
horses have gone and left us. Boys tied Frisky securely but let loose other
two as is our custom. Boys strike out before breakfast on their trail &
have not returned at this writing. I am alone in camp awaiting their return
with much anxiety as without our team we are “swamped” Hope they may
shortly overtake them and bring them back all o.k. The first serious trouble
we have experienced. Further developments will be recorded in due time.
Since boys left in quest of horses, have cleaned up dishes, washed and
shaved and donned my Sunday clothes and reared back in my chair against a
big tree while writing these lines. I feel perfectly at home. See people
passing going to Sunday School-some in wagons, some on horseback and some
footback. Behold the fair sex plodding through dust on their way to S.S. Had
hoped to get a knock down to some of them at church but our team skipping
out makes that out of question. Must write my first letter home now. More
soon. About 12 o’clock the boys return with horses having found them tied
at Lecoma at a Post Office 12 miles distance from our camp. Tired out and
hungry the boys do ample justice to several slices of “Old Red” for
dinner and clean out our Rolla jelly. After dinner write a long letter home.
Bob charms the boys with music and then goes swimming. I go down to call on
old man (really to see his girl) and jaw him a while. Bob and Will make a
mash on girl and Bob goes down and gives her lots of music and sings love
songs to her, his Dent county “daisy”. Won’t compare with my “daisy
jelly girl of old Calloway county though. Read some in Testament, put on my
traveling clothes & prepare for tomorrow’s joumey. This has seemed a
long Sunday some way, but our first among the wilds of Dent Co. Retire
rather early hoping to get a good night’s rest and be off soon in morning.
Have no supper on Sunday night but will make up for it at breakfast time. As
we go to bed music by the frogs rend the air with melodious sounds. In
morning we must with many regrets bid a final adieu to “rattling
daisies” of Dent Co.
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To have seen the final farewell
given by Bob and Will to their girl of Dent this morning was an affecting
scene to an eye witness. For her they had formed quite an attachment she
having fed them all Sunday eve on cherries and taffy. After leaving our camp
in Dent we in a short time are in the limits of Texas co. Stop and purchase
corn of a lady who is desirous of selling her farm. Drive on to Licking and
get there about 11 o’clock. A small town with a post office, a few stores.
Mail a letter home and go south and camp for noon about 3 miles from
Licking. Are on the West Plains and Houston road. Nothing of particular
interest to record. Like Texas co. so far better than any we have passed
through through yet.
This
afternoon pass through some of best of this county. Good wheat but corn not
looking well. Hear of some cheap farms for sale and can say that so far
Texas comes up to my expectations. About 4 o’clock we enter the pineries
of this county being the first time we have ever seen a pinery. We are told
they are not properly pineries of Texas co as East and West of us there are
several saw mills in this section and lumber is very cheap indeed. We pass
on a few miles seeking water for our horses until we find a pond owned by
Uncle Billy Hamilton a very genial old gentleman who comes down to our camp
after supper and chats us awhile furnishing much information relative to
this and Howell co. Are about 7 and half miles from Houston county seat and
take our first nights sleep in county of Texas. Comparatively good roads so
far.
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After breakfast and gussying up
this morning we soon are on the road to Houston. Our road runs all the way
through timber land and here and there may be seen a piece cleared up and
put in wheat rye, meadow or corn. Small houses or rather cabins are stuck
around promiscuously and people living in them seem to be rather an indolent
people not possessing the “get up and go” as they should.
Farms not much improved and
farmers mostly about 20 years behind times. Soon we cross a river known as
Brush Creek and then are in city of Houston. Stop at Spring to water, drive
through town to a grove of trees situated in edge of city where we camp for
noon, a spring near by. Houston a very nice little town, county seat of
Texas co., has several stores, post office and about 160 or 175 inhabitants.
A
very nice school building is going up here and nearing completion. People
seem to be friendly and sociable. After our lunch we drive through town
again to get upon road to Cabool having decided upon this route. This
afternoon we have driven over some terrible rough country & miserable
roads. Rocky, Rocky, Rocky up a hill and down another and so on. Do not like
this part of Texas as it is too broken. After leaving Houston and going
short distance we cross Piney River of inconsiderable size. Go a few miles
further and cross Elk creek-a small stream. Talk of camping here, but It
being a bit early decide to drive on to Piney which 154 miles distant we
must recross. Drive until 7 o’clock & not respring. A man riding by
tells us it is yet 2 miles off and 4 miles to Cabool. Wanted to camp by this
stream & try to fish but our team is tired out. We have come quite far
enough for today, considerably over twenty miles. Tired out and weary we eat
our humble repast of bacon & bread not having been able to purchase a
nickel’s worth of butter nor a single egg in city of the “capital
city” of Texas county. Retire to rest early to sleep our 2nd night out in
the wilds of Texas where black jack & rock are the predominating
features.
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Not
very early risers this morning. Breakfast a little past 6 o’clock upon
mush fried, meat & meal gravy. Had last of our coffee for breakfast.
Must try to lay in a new supply at next town. Slept sound on rocks last
night and this little stream may be known as “Rocky Branch” in as much
as we know no other name so will see. We could hear horses all night long
treading on rocks as grazed around our tent. About 7 a.m. having washed
dishes and gotten everything to right once more we pull out upon our rough
and rocky march to Cabool distant 4 miles. Drive over some of roughest kind
of roads and finally after going what seems to us eight instead of 4 miles.
We come to Cabool a business go ahead little place on K. City, Springfield,
Memphis R.R. It Is a great shopping place for lumber, the principal Interest
here being near the extensive pineries of Texas and Douglas counties. Cabool
is in South West corner of Texas co. and bids fair to make quite a place
being at present only 2 years old. We inquire the way to Mr. Maupin’s
& after going a short distance from town lunch near a spring. After
dinner we pusue our journey through the woods until we find ourselves in a
regular pinery for first time. It is a pretty sight to see a grove of pines
turning skyward, several feet without a limb. We are now in Douglas co &
pass by Fisher Saw Mill which does business on a large scale. Have much
difficulty in finding our road to Mr. Maupin’s there being so many lumber
roads leading in all directions. After going over roughest roads we have yet
traveled we succeed in finding Mr. M’s camp. Find him and family greatly
pleased to see some one from Old Marion co. Sleep in bed first time for 2
weeks and eat one square meal. Will stop here a day or two and rest up. Will
go to Mr. M’s saw mill tomorrow. Talk until after 10 and then see how
sleeping In house once more goes.
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Slept good and after eating a
hearty breakfast stir around some & then get ready to go to saw mill
about 2 and half miles distance. Hitch up my buggy and Mrs. Maupin and I
drive over some terrible roads to the pineries where we see the saw mill in
full blast See some long and real large pine logs turned in a few minutes
into lumber. See here a daisy of first water and chat of course. Stay at saw
mill all evening and watch them turning logs into lumber. After 6 p.m. drive
back to supper to which we do ample justice. Mr. M. entertains Marion co.
delegation with his lively jokes and conversation until a late hour and then
we retire to sleep soundly to wake up in the morning for the 4th. There is
to be a big time at Cabool tomorrow to which we will all go.
The
girls here dress in green with yellow bonnets and carry shoes in hand and
put them on when they arrive at their destination. We want to take it all in
and see native women chew tobacco.
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This
is the fourth, the glorious 4th and the natives will celebrate in full. All
will go. Anvils are firing, fire crackers are popping throughout the camp
and there is a full demonstration. I sit around all morning and after dinner
while preparation is being made to go to Cabool. They start to witness the
fireworks and enter into festivities on the hour. I am feeling unwell and
stay at home to rest up. Let Will have my buggy and primped to kill he takes
his Douglas co. girl to see the 4th of July. I go down to the store in
afternoon and gas the storekeeper and smoke a cigar. A daisy comes in and
she is awful mad because her fellow failed to come to take her to 4th. She
is a good one a fair specimen of native “daisies” of Douglas co. A
pretty moonlight night I roam about the woods until 10 o’clock enjoying
cool of evening. About 12 all come home tired out and sleep a few hours. And
this morning look like they had been through a steir. I’m glad I did not
go to enjoy the glorious 4th.
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Breakfast
this morning at a late hour as the 4th of July got away those who were
foolish enough to go. Read awhile in morning and go down to store and sit
awhile. It Is very warm and rain is badly needed. Some appearance of rain.
Nothing of interest to record. Will and Mrs. Maupin go to sawmill this
morning in two horse wagon. Will and a native girl ride in back seat &
have a glorious lime eating peaches. Have lots of fun out of Will about his
big buxom girl. In afternoon Bob goes down to Fishers Mill to get some corn.
Then we go to Maupin’s mill to get buggy shaft fixed, but am not able to
do so. Come back and see some more native girls. Eat our supper joking Will
about his buxom daisy Beacham having lots of fun. Go to bed early have a
good night’s sleep and wake up late to find it is
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Breakfast
at 7 o’clock, sit around and talk awhile then repair to our wagon to
“fix up” a little and prepare to spend my first Sunday among natives of
Douglas co. About 10 we all attend Sunday School at a little log house away
out in brush of Douglas co. I drive through woods and get lost in brush two
or three times. Are but few people in attendance and no not one whom we more
particularly went to see. A lady conducted S. School in absence of
Superintendant. Have singing and of course I join in too and sing. Sunday
School out we go back to enjoy a good dinner, In afternoon we, E.L. Maupin,
Mr. Gant and myself hitch to a spring wagon and drive us to North Fork of
White River to look at some of the farms. See some good land and some good
crops, several little saw mills. Stop at a log school house & now comes
the fun. We find there will be a singing school and now is our chance to get
a sight of natives. Here comes the teacher singing book in hand, Saus coat,
Saus vest and big red shoulder brace to hold him erect. Now he takes his
stand up the floor and will lead the natives in singing. Do re sol ml fa
utters our teacher in a high key & all beating time with their fans and
feet moan in chorus. “Hands up and feet down” cries the teacher no.1.
Now # 2 will lead the choir
through some intricate pieces of vocal music. No. 2 a great big six footer
in his shirt sleeves and wearing coarse plow shoes which is pants lack a
foot of reaching now faces his pupils. Oh how he can yell and sing. Watch
him brat the air trying to keep time. Immense! Oh the girls! They are
daisies. Dresses come about to knees, pink hose, and combination suits of
many colors. How they giggle and sing and stare. I look at Bob, up my hat
and laugh. Maupin chugs him in the side & he comes near laughing out Now
closing song& then teacher says remember the “appointment” for
Sunday. “We have a powerful good time” as the natives would say and
continue our drive over the lofty spurs of the Ozarks. See more good land
and more rough country. Get back in good time & Bob gives us some music
on his instrument. Then eat peaches and cake which after our long ride ate
very acceptable. Talk until 9 o’clock when we retire hoping an early start
in morning for West Plains. Our stay in Douglas co. a very pleasant one is
now at an end and reluctantly we must push on.
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Up
and bright and early we eat breakfast. We get things to rights preparatory
to pulling out. With many regrets we must bid farewell to friends &
natives of Douglas. Now comes the crisis. We say goodby to all and then
leave Maupin camp far behind. Mrs. M. gives us nice fresh lightbread for
which we return many thanks. Having spent 4 days pleasantly we take our
departure for West Plains. Nothing of interest to record out here at 10
o’clock. Have a new shaft put in my buggy, the old one having played out
While I wait for it I go to the “dining hall” and eat a 35 cent dinner.
It is two p.m. before we get off from Cabool. We wend our way through Texas
until we strike Howell County. Pass company’s saw mill and from there go
on to Willow Springs. Willow Springs, a town of saloons, s small station on
K City, Springfield & Memphis R.R. Go south 2 miles and camp for night
by a pond and a well of good water. Sup heartily and find our bread
splendid. Sleep our first night In Howell cc. An passing down Hutton valley
and see some fine cultivating land.
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Sleep
late this morning as we were pretty well tired out last night not having
traveled for so long that we are out of practice. Rested well and after
breakfast we feel much refreshed. Have rabbit bread and butterjelly, coffee
& c & c to which justice is done. Grease up and start out at 8
o’clock. Some more of Hutton valley’s fine crops and at 9 o’clock we
pull up at a station on railroad known by name of Ramhorn. A spry little
place where are piles of lumber ready for shipment. It is quite warm &
water not very plentiful. Some have to haul the water which they use. Ride
on inquiring for place where we may find water for our horses until a while
before noon we hear of a good spring where we stop just at 12 o’clock hot,
parched and hungry. Here we lunch on light bread and butter sprinkled with
sugar. Our side of bacon played out this morning at breakfast having lasted
well. Are now just 10 miles from West Plains which we hope to reach by
night. Started from home just 3 weeks ago today and our journey Is near
complete. Democrat convention at Chicago today and will get me a paper
containing particulars of it at West Plain tomorrow. After lunching and
resting at what we call Lone Spring we about 2 o’clock move on toward W.
Plains. Travel over a ridge until within 3 miles of W. P. we descend into
Howell valley where we see some more fine crops & good farms. We move on
slowly until we come in sight of West Plain. Cross the Railroad track and
now are in the valley city of Howell. Find West Plain to be a live town with
a business boom. They claim 1500 inhabitants and it is improving all the
time. Some good country around it and it bids fair at no distant day to be
quite a city. WE drive to P.O. and get two letters from home. Go to city
spring and get water and then drive to a grove nearby where we go into camp
for a few days to prospect a little. Beef for supper again and are hungry
enough to eat it even if it is a little tough. A beautiful moonlight night
and we watch the daisies come for water at a spring which is being converted
into a well. I’m not sleepy so can not sleep until after 12 o’clock.
Trains go whistling by all night long. Old Shep stands guard and we load up
for bear. All serene when we fall asleep.
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Our
first night in city of West Plains. Beefsteak for breakfast and find our
supply of bread out. Drive up town in buggy this morning and make some
purchases. Find this quite a business place but a little dull just now. It
is very warm and dry in the county and rain is badly needed. I saw on street
some of Palmyra acquaintances, Mr. Hiram Rhodes for one. Went to drug store
& saw Glover Lewis and Tobe South. Am glad to run across some one whom I
know. Come back to camp & look over Palmyra Herald which I got from P.O.
Mailed a postal home. Will cuts Bob’s hair and then mine. Does a real good
job. Now it is noon & we dine for first time in W. Plain. Wash dishes
& clean up then read some & brush up clothes. Boys go up town to
look around & come back very much discouraged saying everyone whom they
met gave this town a hard name. There are some hard ones here no doubt and
we will keep our eyes open. Have learned nothing definite yet but will not
give up. In morning will try again to look up something. Looks something
like rain tonight and we prepare for it
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Just about supper time last
evening a stranger camping with his family Near us comes to our camp and
engages in conversation. He is from Montgomery co. well equipped and is
traveling for pleasure and health. Seems to be a real nice man and travels
every summer visiting Spring in Southern Mo. Breakfast this morning at 6
o’clock. About 8 Bob and Will strike out on horseback in search of a farm
to rent Are going somewhere up near Barnhan distance about 12 miles and I
all alone in a strange place am having a “happy lonesome” all by myself.
First part of morning read some in Herald. 11 and one half prepare my
noonday meal of bacon fried & boiled eggs ,boss coffee & c & c.
First
meal all alone since I left home. In evening a gentleman who lives near me
comes over to spring and we have a short chat. He sends me West Plains
Journal and Gazette also the locals of which I peruse for a few minutes. Old
Shep and I will stand guard tonight if Bob and Will do not return which I
think doubtful. A very pleasant day so far today. Got my supper early and
clean the dishes. Get out a cigar, rear back and take a smoke and get out
Bob’s guitar and make natives think I can play. Go up to spring, take a
stroll in moonlight& wait for boys return. They come in about 10
o’clock tired and worn out. Learn of some land to rent and also some
Government land to homestead. A very cool night and lack cover to keep warm.
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Up
in time for scanty breakfast. Nothing of interest to note yet. Did think
about going into country to see about school but too late before can get
off. This has the appearance of being a hot day as it is right warm this
morning. Purchase sheaf oats for our horses. Send to wash woman for our
clothes and loaf around remander of morning. Lunch at 12. Our first fried
chicken goes splendidly. Managed to find some butter at last in the valley
city. After dinner Bob and I go in quest of school about 6 miles East of
town. Saw directions in two districts but was unsuccessful in securing a
position. Saw some of best farming land we have seen in Howell co. and now
we have much better opinion of its farming facilities than before. Back in
time for supper and are hungry enough to eat heartily of” Old Red”
(bacon). So far are well pleased with Howell and think it healthy. Nights
are very pleasant for sleeping —in fact most too cool. Howell is rough but
no more than I expected to find it. Boys think some thing of homesteading
one hundred & sixty
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·
Saturday, July 12th
Put in a good nights sleep and
this morning are up early and breakfast at six o’clock. Fried chicken
don’t go very badly and good coffee braces a fellow up for the day. After
breakfast drive around and take in the town. Was somewhat disappointed not
finding it as large and substantial a place as had expected.Spend remainder
of morning washing shirts, kerchiefs & c & c a healthy job too.
Second washing since we left home and when we are through we are hungry
enough to eat a big dinner. In afternoon lie around and read some and gas
those coming into our camp asking them about Howell Co. They curse Howell
for everything you can think of. Got St Louis Republican this morning
containing convention news. Sup quite early. Beefsteak once more. Oh, but we
can eat like wolves since we have been leading a camp life.
Music
on guitar. After supper wash up and change of clothes . Will goes down to
chat an old Scotchman who pulls in this eve and camp is near.
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Sleep
late this morning and after breakfast dress up and go to church at N E
church. Hear another regular Methodist sermon by a good Methodist brother
who thinks he can preach but I do not. See Mr. H. Rhodes at church and go
home with him to dinner. Glad to see someone I know. In afternoon go to
singing school at N. Methodist church and sing and hear natives sing. Come
back to camp and the boys have a lively time with some little daisies who
come to spring for water. They laugh, scuffle and squeal throw water on each
other and carry on generally. Bob gets a bad case and asks one Julie
Alexander to go to church with him. She accepts and he dresses up and calls,
but the old lady has a say so about it. I hitch the buggy and attend
preaching at night at Methodist church. Watch for Bob and grl to come. Here
comes Bob, but no girl. Old lady gave her veto I guess. Come back to camp
about 10 tired and sleepy. Crawl in bed and soon am snoozing away and
dreaming of daisy girls of West Plains whom tomorrow we must leave behind.
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Sleep
too late this morning but stir around lively and get things together and by
eight o’clock we are off. Am going back to Barnham 16 miles distance to
look at some Gov land. Drive 8 miles with naught of interest until noon we
camp by a pond for lunch. We renewed our supply of bread before leaving town
and now for dinner we try some of it with the last of our glass of jelly
purchased in W. Plains. We now are again on time road and wagon tire comes
off and causes some delay. Get into a man’s orchard and “hook” some of
his powerful good apples. Are not but a short distance from our Lost Camp
Valley, our point of destination. A mile or two further and we are in sight
of Government land . Stop at Mr. Dempsters for water and chat him awhile. A
very communicative and friendly old gentleman who gives us much information
and wants us to settle near him also to rent his valley farming land. Shows
us best 160 acres of Gov land just 13 miles from Barnham and we camp on it
and in morning will go over it. Pitch our tent on what may yet be our
homestead and prepare our frugal supper and soon are wrapped in slumber.
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Up and make preparation for
breakfast. Very much appearance of rain and before I finish we finish our
meal the rain comes pouring down driving us into our tent for shelter where
we snugly tucked in. Enjoy our meal and ft is still raining. We are all now
in our “canvas home” Bob sleeping, Will reading and I making the few
brief notes of our camp life. Are thinking seriously of homesteading this
one hundred sixty if it is all as good as our present camping ground. Want
to go over it as soon as the rain ceases. This old gentleman seems willing
to render us any assistance he can and we think if it is not already taken,
we may try it. A fellow already has up a shanty but do not think he has
taken out paper yet. Will try to get ahead of him with Dempster’s help as
he wants good neighbors and he don’t think much of this fellow. And still
it rains. Lone Corner is the name of this valley with its surroundings. Our
chief trouble is in locating the land finding the number & c. Cook our
dinner in tent as it Is pouring down and smoke nearly blinds us.
Eating
must go on however if nothing else is done. Quits raining after 3 and Bob
and I go down to Dempsters and from there to Barnham to see one puddle who
can tell us something about land. Find B a pretty rough little place. Hear
of a school near here where they will pay only thirty dollars . Will have to
study about teaching for $30.00 after getting $75. Come back to camp,
prepare supper, a scanty one too, not being able to buy even eggs or a
little grease in Burnham. It has cleared up and farmers of Howell are glad
to have had such a fine rain. Crops needed it badly indeed. Retire early to
put in another nights good sleep in “Lost Camp” valley, Howell co.
Missouri. Will look over Government land in morning to find a homestead.
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Awful
lazy this morning having slept until six o’clock. We are getting lazier
every day it would seem. Something in the climate as one of the natives here
expressed it. After breakfast, Will with gun goes out hunting but no luck.
Bob goes with some man to try to find boundry line of this 160 acres of Gov.
land which we have selected. Come in about 11 and prepare dinner, a plain
dinner too, as our supply is nearly out I take a nap after dinner lying in
the shade. Bob and Will having gone to water our homes and look over the
land a little. Will comes back and goes up to Burnham to get something to
eat as we are just out. Bob goes out and cuts a few saplings preparatory to
homesteading. I hang out bed clothes and make things look a little like we
are living here. Lack a few old barrels to scatter around, but Bob is going
to put up a few poles for a stable which I guess will answer quite as well.
Will go to W.Plains tomorrow to see about homesteading this quarter section.
A new programme for supper, Flap Jacks turned over without a knife. Just
give skillet a lift & over it goes. Fresh buttermilk from our
neighbor-first milk of any kind since leaving home. Bacon too, eggs once
more. Looks like rain tonight
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Arise
at 4 o’clock and breakfast at half past 5. Bob and myself at 6 exactly
start for W. Plains in buggy to try to homestead our claim. 16 miles to W.
Plains by 10 o’clock we are once more in the valley city. Bob sends off
the money but cannot find whether there is a previous claim. At post office
we find letters from home. One from home enclosing draft for $60. which is
very acceptable indeed. Go to W.P. restaurant for dinner and find our horse.
Loaf around till 3 or 4 when Bob telegraphs to Ironton to find out
something& then strikes for camp. I wait for reply go home with H.
Rhodes and have a good nights rest once more in a bed. Go down to look at
his stockyards. After supper have some music on organ by Miss Belle Rhodes.
Then go up town, loaf at Glover Lewis drug store until bed time. It seems
kind of nice to be eating and sleeping in a house once more. They talk of
cuffing a watermelon in the morning and I guess I’ll be there when that
Melon cholic event event transpires. I will run up to Burnham on train
tomorrow eve where boys will meet me with buggy.
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After enjoying a good night’s
sleep I dress and wash, ready for breakfast. After breakfast Mr. Rhodes and
I sit out out on front porch and talk until business calls him away. I read
a letter from home, then go up town and stay till noon. Go in the new Court
House here, a nice brick structure and make acquaintance of some of co.
officers. Read Dispatch through. Mr. Haynes from Ironton signing failed to
give me no. Of Township and
range. After dinner Mr. R and I go to Depot and send another message nos. T
& R. A dude of an apeston?? as impolite and hateful as can be says NO
loafing In office. He needs taking down a little. Am still waiting a
definite reply before going out on the train this eve. Take supper about 6
o’clock and go down to depot to take train. No reply yet.
Board
train for Burnham at 7 and in half hour are at Burnham where Bob meets me in
buggy. Drive to camp and are tired enough to go to bed. Will tied oats for
old man this eve for cows to feed upon. Our program for tomorrow not yet
made out Made some acquaintances in W. Plains today but learn of nothing of
interest
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Do
not feel much like getting up this morning so sleep until boys announce
breakfast. Eat but little but will be allright when I stir around some.
Finish letter to father and Will will mail It at Burnham as he is going up
to look for a job on RR or hauling lumber, Bob and I keep camp and load up
for native whom we think might try to bluff us or drive us off of his claim.
We are not easily scared he will find if he or his pals come monkeying
around our camp. I write awhile this morning until dinner is sounded which
just now is more congenial with my feelings than writing. Dinner over, Will
goes down to tie oats for old gentleman and —maybe to spark his girl as
she is a great big fellow. Bob and I lounge around until it clouds and
threatens to rain. When prepare for it in double quick time and none too
soon as it comes pouring down. A hard rain and badly needed too. We are as
cozy as could wish in our tent while rain comes pouring down as music to our
ear lulling us to sleep. Here we talk laying plans for future until after
rain when Bob goes for feed, returns, and off to Bumham to replenish our
empty larder. Gets back after dark, too late to see to get supper so must
lunch on bread and butter. Read a telegram saying this section had been
presented. Re we no wiser now than before as no one Is living on it
according to requirement Don’t know what do next.
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We awake at a late hour to find
this Sunday the Holy Sabboth day. For a change we have for breakfast this
morning slices of shoulder with fried eggs. I do not feel first class so lie
around all day without dressing up or putting on any clean clothes even. We
dine at a late hour. Don’t know the hour as our time keepers both run
down. In afternoon I read some in New Testament scriptures and then try to
prepare a correspondence for the Marion Co. Herald. Mr. Dempster comes up
with Will when he goes down after oats and chats us awhile. Old gentleman
fixed for us and looked for us for dinner & was much disappointed that
we did not come. Didn’t know that or should have gone down as he has a
“daisie daughter”. Am going down right soon.
Boys
try to make some mush. Fail and turn it into Johnny cake. This has been an
awful a “powerful” warm sultry day being more pleasant after sundown. We
go to bed to sleep soundly & dream of native girls.
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Finish my newspaper article this
morning while boys are eating breakfast Bob starts for W. Plains in buggy to
see Mr. Hynes about contesting this native’s claim as he is not living on
the land and never has been that any one knows of. Before starting however
Bob sees an old turkey and young ones up road. Fires a shot and the old one
falls but failed to get a young turkey. Old one too tough to cook but hope
to get one of the others when they come around her as Wilt with gun in hand
is watching. Gives it up though and comes to camp, putters around then goes
to get some fresh water. Gets some of Mrs. D.s good buttermilk for dinner.
Turns flap jacks without a knife, and butter & gravy are served for
dinner. Take a good nap after dinner and mosey around rest of evening
wishing for something to read.
Bob
comes into camp about 6 P M from West Plains with some good news. Homestead
papers have come and everything is all o.k. Feet in fine spirits on strength
of it Mrs. Dempster Is honored with a call by Bob & I get knock down to
her daughter “Frankie”. Mrs. D gives us an oven and lid to bake our
bread with some cooking apples. Go to bed early to dream of our new home
that is to be. Our suspense over.
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Get
up soon enough this morning but breakfast late as we have some trouble with
our flapjacks. Old gentleman comes up to camp just as we finish and gives us
a long chat At 9 o’clock hitch up buggy and start out to see about a
school. I turn to right as directed after leaving main road go a hundred or
more yards when to and behold I come to our tent before I know It. Too late
to start out to see about a school so alight and spend morning and part of
afternoon patching my briches. Boys quit cutting sapplings and gone to
cutting big lumber on Homestead. Preparing to make bin to hold some oats
bought this morning of Mr. Dempster. A new wrinkle for dinner viz baked
apples with sugar on ‘em. And they are boss. Boys still trying to shoot
some wild turkeys which hang about our camp. Write two postals this eve and
Bob and myself go up to Burnham to mail them & get flour. Supper in the
night
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Our
first biscuits for breakfast Almost a failure. After breakfast I start out
bright and early to hunt up school. After a mile or two after bumping over
rocks I come to Dan’s schoolhouse in edge of Hutton valley. The man I
wanted to see not at house. Go to Hutton City about 4 miles from our camp
where I arrive about 11 a.m. and put at Hutton Valley Hotel. This is a small
but neat village with 3 or 4 stores, P.O. and nice school building. Go
through building which is newly furnished with modern style of desks. Am
much pleased with surroundings and think I can secure the position as
teacher at $40.00 per month. Loaf around after dinner making good many
acquaintances and at 4 o’clock start for camp and get in after 6. Find
boys have pulled up stakes and are camped on proposed building site a very
desirable location. Boys hear today they want teachers at Willow Springs. I
will go to see about it this week. Will is quite unwell and has been all
day. A hot day.
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Addendum
This addendum is compiled to
answer some of the questions following the
rather abrupt ending by Uncle Edward Rufus Yeager. I am sure he attained his
goals of giving a rather complete account of his and Grandfather Robert’s,
and Uncle Billy’s adventures and escapades traveling the length of MO.
Edward Rufus Yeager was teaching
school in Palmyra, MO at the time he wrote the journal, and was out of
school for the summer of 1884. The next public account I have of Ed is the
census of 1900, which showed him 43 years old, unmarried, living with his
Father, John Redd. There is one record that precedes the census. The
Palmyra, MO Directory of 1892 lists Ed as county Treasurer. I have found no
record of death or marriage. He was not in any 1910 census.
James William (Uncle Billy)
Yeager left, evidently, for Colorado, not many years after this trip. The
earliest I find in the many railroad-related pieces of paper, he left, is
1892 which shows him as a licensed Railroad Fireman. The dates on the many
papers, cards, receipts, etc. run all the way up to and including 1903. That
is about the year his brother, Robert, was realized as having a terminal
lung disease.
Uncle Billy left many, many,
cards, passes, lodge membership papers. Most of the items are very fragile,
faded and hard to read.
Based just on the quantity of
papers relating to “The Denver and Rio Grande Railroad”, I could presume
he worked for that company most of the time. He had passes and obviously saw
a lot of the West According to the cards, he worked for The Florence and
Cripple Creek Railroad. There are many passes for travel over the west.
Also, he was a member of “Odd Fellows”club. When it was obvious his
brother, Robert, didn’t have long to live and other tragedies struck,
James William (Uncle Billy) moved back to the Willow Springs area. In 1909
or 1910, Robert and Emily lost a 13 year old son to meningitis. Grandmother
was left with 5 children ages from 7 to 14 years old with no way to support
them financially. To make a long story short, Uncle Billy married Josephine
Sibley Yeager, his sister in law, and stayed with them and they farmed the
rocky little farm for a while. Then Uncle Billy and a younger brother,
Benjamin made a railway trip to the MS Delta and bought a 480 acre cotton
farm which still had a lot of uncleared land on it. This farm is stilt here
in Bolivar County and my son Robert Lee Yeager, IV is the fourth Yeager to
own and farm it. It has been totally cleared of trees for many years now and
vastly improved. Every acre is under irrigation and we raise mostly rice and
soybeans. I completely dropped cotton farming about 20 years ago. I
digress.... Anyway after they bought the farm, Uncle Billy moved to MS with
his family a year or so later. They rented the land for maybe two years to
another individual. Uncle Billy farmed the cotton with the Share-crop System
which was not good for anybody. Meanwhile my Dad had lost his job with the
RR during the depression. Dad moved all of us (Mother and 3 children) in
1935 from Natchez, MS to the Yeager land in Bolivar County. There we stayed,
went to School, went Into the Army in 40’s, finished MS St Univ. in 1950.
My wife, Margery and I got married in 1949. In 1953 my dad had had 2 heart
attacks so I came to the farming operation while Margery taught 1st grade.
Here we have been in Bolivar County, MS from 1953 to the present day.
However we both were raised in Bolivar County, MS.
Robert Lee Yeager, I, who
eventually became my Grandfather was another teacher/farmer. I do not know
if the place he farmed in Howell County, MO was the place they homesteaded
or not. Robert married Josephine Belle Sibley in Palmyra, MO, May 5, 1891,
Just 7 years after their odyssey. I have never found much info on
Grandfather in that interim between the big trip and the marriage to my
grandmother-to-be in 1891. Family history (no documents) has it that he
taught x number of years In Marion County, MO and then moved to Willow
Springs, MO, taught school and farmed and fathered a big family (6), 4 of
whom reached adulthood. Children of Robert and Josephine Belle who reached
adulthood: John, WW I, died in vets hospital in LA due to TB, contracted In
Army, Lillian taught High School English in several states, Josephine,
usually got a job teaching Home Ec. close by. They both graduated from LSU.
Except for a few years Aunt Jo in the Red Cross In the 1940’s., they were
always close to each other. My father, Robert II worked several years for
the Y&MV railroad, then in 1935 moved to Bolivar Co., MS and farmed
until he died in 1955 of a heart attack.
CREDIT: Full credit and
thanks go to my wife, Margery Bays Yeager without whom this would never have
been published. Nobody but she could read the 122 year old faded, sometimes
distorted writing in the Diary. She spent many long hours with a magnifying
glass and typing, looking in dictionary to see if that word was really a
word. AN ALMOST SUPERHUMAN EFFORT.
Published & edited by: Robert
Lee Yeager, III, whose ancestry goes through the 2 Roberts prior, then John
Redd Y., then Elijah Y, then Adam II, Adam I, then our immigrant from
Germany in 1717, Nicholaus Jager of Falkentstein, Germany.
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