March 25, 1901
through
July 29, 1901
(Jesse A. Washburn’s mission journal coves 24 Sept, 1899 to 24 July, 1900)
Luella’s handwritten journal, previously in possession of Fred Washburn, has been given to the LDS Church Archives in Salt Lake City, Utah. Photocopies of the handwritten journal or this typed transcription are available from Larry D. Washburn, SLC, UT.
Monday, March 25
Arose about 6-30. Ate a genuine breakfast and at 8-30 went back to town and arranged to go to Espanola. The day previous we left some things at a house in town and were unable to find the man until the train had gone so we did not get off. At 10-30 we left the waiting room and went to a negro ladies house and hired a room for the day and night. It cost 75¢. We spent the day until 4 P.M. in the room visiting, eating, and reading, etc. Then we went up in town and looked around some. We visited the capitol building in New Mexico which was very interesting to me. Returned to our room as it was very windy. Ate supper and retired at 7. Elder L. slept at the butcher shop.
Tuesday, March 26
Arose quite late. elder L. came before we were dressed. He went and purchased bread salmon and bolony for our breakfast. Ate and then went to depot. At 10-30 we all left for Espanola. Had a pleasant little ride of 1 hour and 45 minutes, when, at 12-15 we reached our destination. We called at the store, P.O. and express office. Got some mail and the express from M. W. and C. containing braid, buttons, etc for Jesse and clothes. Br. Erastus Thompson from Fairview was there.
We all rode over to Bro. Garrison’s with him. Found dinner just ready. After eating we spent the P.M. straightening a room in Sr. Garrisons house and getting our things put in. At night Frank Covey and wife also Bro. Sellers and wife came down and stayed until 10-30 playing and singing. Retired at 11.
Wednesday, March 27
Arose at 7 After breakfast we all prepared and went up to Sister Marthur Sellers where we visited until 4-30. Had an excellent time. In the evening we all went to Mr. Frank Covey’s where we had supper and spent the evening until 10-30. It was cold and windy to go home and Verd was asleep but his papa carried him all the way. We got there at 11. We had a mile to walk.
Thursday, March 28
I done our washing. Got thru at 11. In P.M. we washed Jesse’s clothes and helped Elder Lisonbee clean his. Oh! the wind is blowing terribly and it is cold, cold. I spent the evening fussing around--and retired early.
Friday, March 29
Sister Garrison did her washing and I ironed. Jesse went to town and got some dye. In the P.M. we dyed his clothes. Went to bed early and was tired tho I had done but little.
Saturday, March 30
After washing dishes we pressed Jesse’s clothes which took until 11. We then prepared and went to Sr. Sellers where we had dinner. At I we took the clothes and went to Mrs. Coveys where I relined and bound them on her machine. At 5-30 we returned to Sr. Sellers and had supper. Walked down to Sr. Garrisons and got ready for a dance. Went with the folks. It was held at Mr. Lease’s house. I danced 4 times. Got home at 1 and retired.
Sunday, March 31
Arose at 8 o’clock. Breakfast was over with but we got some anyway. Oh! how cold. This morning Jesse went to S.S. but I did not care to go so just sat around all A.M. He returned at 12-20. We ate dinner and washed dishes. At 1-30 went to meeting. He and Elder L. were the speakers and they surely spoke well. was “powerful” sleepy but still I enjoyed it. When out we went home with Dick Willis, the presiding elder, and had supper. They wanted us to stay all night with them which we decided to do as it was a long way down to our bed and it had been snowing for some time. We retired at 9 o’clock.
Monday, April 1
“All Fools” Day
The ground is covered with 2 inches of snow. In AM. we wrote some letters and at 10-30 went with Br. Willis to Bro. Garrisons where I stayed while Jesse went onto Espanola with him. They returned at 12 and had dinner. Then we rode back to Sr. Sellers. Jesse half soled my shoes and at 4-30 we went to Sr. Lydia Russles and had a nice supper. I felt very bad as I had a bad cold. She made me some cough medicine. Some of the neighbors came in at night and the elders sang some songs. We visited until 10 and then went to back to Bro. Willis’ where we slept. Retired at 10-30.
Tuesday, April 2
Arose rather late as we did not sleep very good. I coughed and Jesses stomach bothered him so much. We ate breakfast and then I took a nap. We wrote some letters, ate dinner at 12 and then returned to Bro. Garrisons. Sr. Garrison had washed our clothes. I sat around with Jesse most of the P.M. Telling tales of fond affection.” At night he dose me up for my cold and put me to bed. I retired early.
Wednesday April 3
Jesse went up to Bit. Russels to help Will raise a wind mill. Verd went with him. I ironed in A.M. and spent the P.M. trimming hats hoping to sell them at Santa Cruz. Jesse came at 4-30. We retired early. He fixed my trunk and I packed it.
Thursday, April 4
when we awoke Jesse was feeling quite rocky and what was still worse he had to leave us for Manassa. Elder Lisonbee went to the mts. on a hunt on Tuesday and as Bro. Willis was going to Manassa with a load of apples Jesse had decided to go along with him. He left at 8-30 and I did hate to see him go. After doing the work Rubie and I took my hats and went to Santa Cruz. It was a bad bad day but we sold $2.00 worth. Returned at 12-30 and ate dinner. Elder L. came at 2-30. He spent the P.M. with us. I recd a letter from George B. inviting us to his wedding. Poor Nervy. I am sory for her. At night I felt tired and lonely so we retired early.
Friday, April 5
“Good Friday”
This is Penitenta day with the Mexicans. At day break you could hear their yells and bells and see them gathering on “Calvery Hill.” At 9-30 Elder Lisonbee came down. He, Rubie John and I went to the Catholic Church to attend services but there was none. We then went up on Calvery and saw their performances a little while but very soon were tired. Then Rubie and I took our hats again and went to Santa Nania where we peddled around until 2-30. We sold one hat for $1.25. Returned home at 3 and ate dinner. Reed. a letter to Jesse from Prest. McRae wanting him in Denver by Apr. 15. Elder L. decided to take the morning train for Manassa so I washed Jesses clothes. At dark we all went up to Sr. Sellers where we stayed until 10 visiting and singing. Went home at 10-30.
Saturday, April 6
Conference Day
Arose quite late. After breakfast did my ironing. Got Jesses grip packed for Elder Lisonbee to take. At 9-30 he came down and I helped get his things ready. We had an early dinner and at 11-30 we bad him adieu and he left for the depot. Oh! how lonely when he had gone. I never felt worse in my life at being left. I just feel like a lost sheep. I went up to Sr. Sellers and stayed all day. Worked on my pin cushen. Oh! it seemed like the day would never go and the wind is so bad I know my darling is having a hard trip but any way I wish we were with him. We were lonely so returned early. Verd cried with his legs until 11. Slept at Sr. Sellers.
Sunday, April 7
Arose quite late. Helped do up the work and prepared for S.S. We all went but Oh! my what a school. There was only about 15 there. I read in the Theo. class with Bro. Sellers and Rodgers. When out went to Sr. Sellers and had dinner. At 2 we returned to the meetinghouse where the same little crowd was for meeting. The speakers were Br. Sellers and Bro. Garrison. Oh! the meeting was dry. When out we returned to Sr. Sellers. Then she and I got in a wagon with John Holterman and Sammie Sellers and went to Sr. Garrisons. We had supper there and stayed until sundown. Went back. I wrote some songs--a letter--then retired. This was the most lonesome day I have spent since leaving home.
Monday, April 8
Arose late. In A.M. cut some shirts out for Jesse and worked on my cushion. After dinner we went up to Betty Coveys where I made them, got thru at 5 so returned to Sr. Sellers. Had supper and retired quite early as I was lonely. There was no mail from Jesse today. What can be the matter.
Tuesday, April 9
Arose quite early, got work all done and at 9 Sr. Sellers and I went to Sr. L. Russels to visit. Sr. S. went home about 11 but I stayed all day. Worked on my pin cushion. Sr. Russel was sick all day. She had to go to bed every little while. I got dinner and washed dishes. Went back to Sr. Sellers at 5 hoping to find two letters. One from Jesse and a pass from Br. McRae, but no, nothing yet.
Wednesday, April 10
Remained at Sr. Sellers all day and worked on my cushion. Was as lonesome as could be no pass comes yet.
Thursday, April 11
I expect mail today sure so will wash and be ready to leave tomorrow. Went up to Coveys on an errand in the morn, came back and got my washing done at 11-30. We were just getting dinner when who should come in but Elders Taylor and Robinson. Oh I how glad I was to see them. No one can imagine. We fixed dinner for us all. Ate and then sang for a little while. At 4 they went over to Espanola for mail. Brot a letter from Jesse but none from Bro. McRae. Jesse has mailed one before but it has not come. They came back just as supper was ready. We ate and spent the rest of the evening practicing on “Captive Jens” and “Home Love.” Sr. S. and I went to Sr. Willis’ while the Elders took a bath. Retired at 11.
Friday, April 12
Arose quite early. After breakfast did the elders washing. Got thru at 11. Sent two letters to Jesse this morning. One to Sanford and One to Manassa. We went to Sr. Willis’ for dinner. Visited until 1-30 then she went with us to Sr. Russels where we stayed until 3. We all took an electric shock and had great sport over it. From there we went to Sr. Garrisons. I packed my trunk and ironed the boys clothes. They went to town for mail but the train was late so it was 7-30 before they returned. No mail yet from the office so I must pay full fare to Manassa. Ate supper. Sang until 10 and retired.
Saturday, April 13
Arose early and began preparing to get off, Mended some and trimmed Sr. G. hat in the morning. We ate dinner at 11 and then with Bro. G. started to Espanola. The train beat us there but it waited 20 m. so we were in time. Got our tickets. I called at Pallards and Bawns stores then we bot an article on and from the Indians who were at the depot. At 12-40 we left for Manassa. Arrived at Antonio at 7. stopped 30 in for supper. Reached Manassa siding at 7-40 Jesse was not there so we all went on to Lajara. Paid 45 cents each. Reached Lajara at 7-55. Found Jesse, Elders L. and Job Whitney there. We all went to Sanford in 2 small buggies and ate supper at Jobs. Went at 9 to Bro. Wm. Coveys where several friends were. Spent the evening until 11-30. Ate peanuts candy and apples. Sang and played and had a good time. Jesse and I talked nearly all night.
Sunday, April 14
Arose very late. Ate breakfast at Ira’s. Helped Jesse fix his reports until S.S. time. Attend SS and it was a fine one. The Theo. class was genuine. We all went home with Br. Wm. Dean for dinner. Had an excellent meal. Sang songs until 1:30 Went back to meeting. The speakers were Marcus O. Funk, Bp. Jensen from Manti and Frank Wilson. When meeting was out we all went to Job. W. where the elders sang and fixed up reports. Ate supper at 6-30 and then Jesse had to leave. Job fixed 2 buggies and Elders L and T, Verd and I went to Lajara with him. The train came at 8 and he had to leave us. Oh! I did hate to see hint go. Worse than ever before I believe. Returned back to Ira’s at 9. Took my trunk up from the depot. Retired at 11.
Monday, April 15
Arose late. The wind was blowing terribly. After breakfast I went over and spent a little while with Jobs wife (Georgie Mitchell). Elder Taylor is off working on the ditch. Elders L, and R. have gone to Manassa. Ate dinner at Julias. In P.M. went to Jobs again and spent 2 or 3 hrs. A little girl has died at Bro. Jones’ with scarlet fever. Ate supper at Jobs. Elder T. came from work at sundown. After supper he went to Ira’s with me and we visited there until 10 when he returned to Jobs and we retired. Jesse reached Denver this morning.
Tuesday, April 16
Arose early. Helped do up the work. Bro. Whitney went for wood. At 9-30 I went to Ceceils mas and spent 1½ hours with her. She was glad to see me. Returned to P.O. but no mail from Jesse. Went to Job’s and had dinner. Played checkers a while. In P.M. some women came here to make clothes for the little dead girl so I went to Julias and helped Elder T. clean and dye his clothes. At 4-30 Elders L. and R. returned from Manassa. At 5 we all went to Jobs and took supper. We spent the evening there until II. singing, visiting, playing checkers, etc. Went back to Julias to sleep. Mamie washed today. There was a regular blizzard all day.
Elder L. returned. Got word of Prest. Cannons to Manassa today.
Wednesday, April 17
Arose late. After breakfast did my ironing. Elder T. and I pressed his clothes. Elder R. went to P.O. and brot letter from Jesse. No pass. He is lonesome as a dog. At 11 Ida Otteson came for Julie and I in the buggy. We went to their house (Aunt Ottesons) also Elders T. and R. went. Had dinner and spent the P.M. until 5 having a good time. Ate supper returned to Julias and found an invitation to go to Bro. Anthon Nielsons to a birthday party for his 25 year old son Erastus. We all went and ate another supper. Sang. Recited and played until 11-30. Bro. Wm Funk and wife (Till) James Dyer and wife (Bulah) were there as well as Bro. Nielsons family and all of us. Had an excellent time. But I missed Jesse.
Thursday, April 18
Arose late. After breakfast I wrote to Jesse. Elders T. and R. came over and we put them to doing fancy work. They made little picture frames. Worked on my cushion and did a little of every thing. I finished the cushion in the P.M. About 5 o’clock we all went over to Bro. Swen Petersons (Mortesons) where his wife Laurette played several songs for us and we practiced them. We ate supper there altho Bro. Swen was at Alamosa. He came just at dark and we left at the same time. Went back to Bro. Ira’s. The ward teachers Bro. John Morgan and Hunt came and stayed until 10-30. We worked on the frames until 11-30. The elders went and we retired.
Friday, April 19
Arose late. After breakfast cut some patterns for Sr. Whitney. Fixed Elders Taylor’s coat. At 12 m. Bro. and Sr. W. Elders T and R and I went over to Frank Crowthers (Mary Olsons) to spend the day. She had an excellent dinner after which the elders began to prepare to go to Manassa. Bro. Nielson sent for a horse and buggy for them and then they wanted me to go. I prepared in a few moments and at 3 we were off. Reached Sr. McCarrolls at 4 and found her gone. Visited Sr. Roush an hour or so. Then went to Sr. McCarols and had supper. Elder L. joined us there. At 8 we all went to Bro. Honeycuts where we remained until 10-30 listening to music etc. Slept at Sr. McCanols. Retired at 12.
Saturday, April 20
Arose at 8. Took breakfast with Sr. McC. and Ida Sellers. At 9-30 the elders all gathered in and we sang visited etc. until dinner time. After dinner I began to prepare to go back to Sanford as Elder L. recd word from Jesse that he looked for me in Denver on Sunday or Monday. At 3 elder Taylor and I left for Sanford. Reached there at 4. Found 2 letters and a ticket from Jesse. Went to Julias and prepared to wash. Gave myself and Verd a bath and then washed. Got thru at sundown. Ate supper and helped do up the work and as I was very tired retired at 8-30. Mamie went to choir practice and Ira and Elder T. went out calling.
Sunday, April 21
Arose quite early. Done my ironing. Ate breakfast. During S.S. I packed my trunk prepatory to leaving. Aunt Cecil's mother came up at 12 and took dinner with us. At 2 Ira took Verd and lout for a drive. Went all over town. At 3 Julia and Sr. Christensen went to Zilla Mortesons (Crowther) to see her. She is in bed with a young baby boy. Her Sister Laura (Holman I think) was there. From there I went to Mary Crowthers and had supper. Went to Ira's at 6 Job and Georgie and Elders T and R were there for supper. After which Ira prepared to take me to the depot. Julia went also. We got badly scared on the way down thinking the train was ahead of time and would leave me but it was a freight. The passenger came duly. About 8 we bad the folks adieu and left for our dreaded journey. Reached Alamosa at 8-15 and waited there half an hour. Verd went right to sleep but I was very restless the seats being uncomfortable. At three we reached Pueblo and from there on had more room so I prepared some first rate beds on the seats and we slept fairly well until 5-30. We reached the noted city Denver at 7 and found Jesse there. We all walked 1 ½ miles to our room. Had considerable trouble in getting our baggage from the depot as a scamp had worked a scheme on me, a "poor country Jake." It cost us 1.00 to get it delivered. We spent the day at our room No. 1016 W. Colfax Ave. the room is very small but I guess we can get along for a little while.
Tuesday, April 23
Arose late. Bot bread, milk, etc. and took breakfast in our room. Remained there until 3 P.M. when we went out in town to get a cape for me but everything was so high we could not afford one. Returned to room at 6 and ate supper. Then went to 202 McPhee and attended MIA meeting. Went home at 4-30. Retired about 10-30.
Wednesday, April 24
Arose late. Ate breakfast at 9-30. Went down in town. Bought Verd a hat and Jesse some pants at the Denver Fair. Returned to room at 202 for a while then to our own. Ate supper and then went out on the streets until 10. Returned to room very tired. Retired at 10-30.
Thursday, April 25
Arose late. Ate at 9-30. Prepared and went to the office. Met several new Elders. At 12 m. we went to Sr. Longs where we had dinner. At 2 we all returned to 202 for Relief Society meeting. Jesse and Verd visited the capitol during meeting. Went to our room and took supper. At 7 P.M. we went to Bro. Divetts to choir practice. Returned home at 10.
Friday, April 26
Arose late as usual. Jesse went to 202 McPhee found Elder Lisonbee who came back with him. We all went to the office for a while then to Mr. Brooks to see about getting some photos taken. At 3 we went to Capitol hill and went all thru the capitol bldg. Oh! it was grand. Saw many wonderful sights. One of note was Kit Karsons rifle with 36 brass head tacks representing the 36 Indians he had killed. Got very tired so at 4-30 we all went to the office. Jesse and Elder Lisonbee went down to the Clio (Elders T, R and L room) and got two large boxes of lunches that was put up in Manassa and Sandford for them. Elders T and R came with us to the room. Took the lunch there and all dined together there. At night we all went to a theatre at the "Tabor Grand" Elder Taylor paid our way. The play was the "Parish Priest" and it was just fine. Play out at 10. Went to our room and retired at 11 being very very tired. Had walked several miles during the day.
Saturday, April 27
Arose late as usual. At 9 Jesse went to the gallery and had his photo taken with the N.M. Elders. There was priesthood meeting at 10 and again at 2 so he was gone all day only just long enuf to come for dinner. Verd and I were alone all day and we were very lonely. I done little odd jobs of mending, etc. to keep busy. At 7 we went to 202 room in McPhee Bldg. where he and Elder McRae practiced on the guitar and mandolin. At 8 we went to an upper room in McPhee Bldg where there was to be a program, dances, Ice cream, etc. for the Elders and Denver saints. We had a fine time until 11 when Verd cried with his legs so we went home.
Sunday, April 28
Arose at 8-30. We had slept but very little as Verd cried most of the night with his legs. Elder L. came and ate with us. At 10-30 we all went to the Woodman hall where we attended SS. It closed at 12-20 and at 12-30 meeting began. Both sessions were very interesting. Meeting closed at 2 and we hastened to our room where we ate dinner and then went to bed. Slept about 3 hrs. At 6 Elders Lisonbee Cox and Clark came in. The former stayed until 7 when we all went to the Woodman hall to meeting again. Elder Taylor spoke well. Good meeting. Closed at 9-30. We went home.
Monday, April 29
Arose at 7-30. At 8 Jesse went to a meeting of the con. presidents at 202. At 10 the Elders all met and had their photos taken. Elders Taylor and Ashton called in A.M. At 1 P.M. Jesse and Elder Lisonbee came and ate dinner and then went back to priesthood meeting in the office. Verd and I were lonely all day. He slept most of the P.M. At night we all attended a theatre, "Held by the Enemy" at the Tabor. It was rather dry.
Tuesday, April 30
Jesse's birthday. Jesse, Elder L. and I went to Sr. Luce's for dinner. They went to 202 and I remained with Sr. Luce until 6. Returned home and Jesse had just come. Retired early.
Wednesday, May 1
Went to Sr. Luces at 8-30 where I done our washing. Took dinner there. At 1 returned to our room and took a nap. In evening we went out sight-seeing. Returned about 8 and after reading and writing a little retired.
Thursday, May 2
Jesse went to the office quite early. He and Elder L. returned for dinner about 10-30. I spent the A.M. cutting out some garments for Jesse and at 2 went to Sr. Mame Stephens to make them. As it was Relief Society meeting did not sew but went to 202 with her for meeting but there was none. Jesse and I returned to Sr. Stephens for Verd. Ate supper there then to our room where we retired early.
Friday, May 3
Spent the A.M. cutting out my black wrapper. Elder L and Jesse came from the office at 12 and ate dinner. At 1-30 I went to Sr. Stephen's and made the garments. Jesse and Verd went to the office again. It rained in the evening. At 6 I returned home. Elders L and Siddoway came in. We went down and sang for Mrs. Wolfe until 9 when the elders left. We retired at 9-30 and soon Elder Taylor came in and bade us goodbye as he was to leave for Wyoming in the morning.
Saturday, May 4
Jesse went with Elder L. who came up and ate breakfast with us. He left for Pueblo at 9-30. I spent the A.M. patching and fixing Jesse's clothes ready to leave them. He came at 1 P.M. and after eating we went to Sr. Philips. I sewed on my wrapper until 6. He and Verd went to town but returned at 5-30. We went to our room and Elders Hansen and Johnson called on us. We read some and I sewed before retiring.
Sunday, May 5
Arose late. Prepared for S.S. which began at 11. Fast meeting at 12-30 closed at 2-15. We went to Bro. Divette's for dinner. Returned to our room at 5-30. Ate supper. Verd soon went to sleep so I stayed home from meeting at night with him. Jesse went and returned at 9-30 then we retired.
Monday, May 6
Jesse went to the office in A.M. and I finished my wrapper. He came about noon and we spent the P.M. packing my trunk, etc. At 5 he took them to depot and found they had to be shipped to Salt Lake. At 6 we went to 202 where the elders held a meeting. It closed at 9-30 and we went home.
Tuesday, May 7
Arose at 5-30. Arranged the room a little and then went to Sr. Stephens for breakfast. Walked to depot and got there at 7-15. Got baggage checked and bad the Elders all goodbye. Oh! Jesse, we do surely hate to leave you. But at 8 we said the parting word and the train rolled onward. At Colorado Springs Elders Jones and Payne left us and at Salida Elders Clark and Hansen left.
Wednesday, May 8
At midnight we reached Grand Junction and when I asked the condr. to put my baggage off at Price he said they could not stop at all there so at 2 they put us off at Cisco and the baggage went on. Oh! I could have cried in earnest as I sat there waiting for the next train. It came at 4 and we got on and went to bed. Slept until 6 when we reached Woodside. Reached Price at 7-15. No one to meet us. Found Hyte there. we went to odds but he was off shearing. At 8-15 I left with Levi Harmon for home. Met Susa and Austin going for us. Got thrown from the buggy going home. Spent the day at ma’s. Several of the folks came in to see us. Went home at night and slept.
Thursday, May 9
Spent all the day until evening at home tearing carpet rags. Kate and Aunt Hannah came down Went to ma’s a little while in evening. Came back and retired early.
Friday, May 10
Tore rags in A.M. Nervy came at noon and stayed until 3-30. Grandma and I went to Aunt Dools and there we found them all busy preparing for a surprise for me. I spoiled their fun by going but still they went ahead. They made ice cream and at dark all the folks came in and we spent quite a pleasant evening until 11-30 eating, visiting, gassing, etc. Returned home quite late and retired.
Saturday, May 11
Spent the A.M. at home sewing carpet rags. At 1 grandma, Verd and I went to ma’s where we stayed until night. Went home. Ate supper and retired.
Sunday, May 12
Went to ma’s and Susas in AM. At noon went to Mames where we had dinner. At 1-30 Susa and I went to Netts. Found Tress and Will there. We stayed until 4-30 then went to ma’s but she was gone. I went home and spent the rest of the day there in the best way I could but it was very lonesome. Bro. Swett came home and spoke in meeting. They said it was nice. I did not go.
Monday, May 13
Austin went to Price after my trunk. In AM. Jim came up and we planted a nice patch of potatoes. He also plowed us a garden spot. Spent P.M. tearing and sewing carpet rags.
Tuesday, May 14
Spent the day fixing the ground and putting in garden. Austin came back but did not get my trunk. Oh! What shall I do without it.
Wednesday, May 15
Wrote some letters regarding my trunk. Hoed some in the lawn. Put in some more garden and went down to ma’s a while.
Thursday, May 16
Went up in town in morning. Borrowed Mames mill and came home and ground horse radish.
At 1-30 grandma and I went to a relief society working meeting. There was a big crowd out and I met several strangers as well as many friends, at 4 they brot in picnic and we ate heartily. This was a surprize for Sr. Harmon who had retired from office. Returned home at 5-30.
Friday, May 17
Cut out some sewing in morning and then went to ma’s where I stayed until 6 evening. Hyte came with my trunk so ma and I hurried up to see it. I unpacked everything and showed them to ma and grandma. She had been to Nervy’s all day. Things were all right. Bp. came down and brot us some groceries and gave me 10.00 to send to Jesse.
Saturday, May 18
Spent the most of the day in putting things to their places. In evening went to Uncle Jodis and filled my bedtick. Retired early very tired.
Sunday, May 19
Arranged the house. Got Verd ready for S.S. and bathed in the A.M. At one went to Lydia’s and had dinner. Stayed there until 4-30. Went home and filled the barrel. Ma and Susa came down from meeting and stayed for supper. They went at 7 and we retired early.
Monday, May 20
Spent the day at home cutting carpet rags putting in more garden and ripping up some of the Elders old coats and pants.
Tuesday, May 21
Done quite a big washing in the AM. In the P.M. grandma and I went to ma’s for an hour or so.
Wednesday, May 22
Cut out sewing in AM. and at I went to ma’s to sew. At 4 Lydia sent for me as Edna Nielsen had come to see me. Went home. Lydia and Edna went up and I fixed supper. Lydia took her home after dark in the wagon. I wrote to Jesse at night. Grandma went to Nervys all day.
Thursday, May 23
Went to the stores in the AM. and got some cloth to sew on. Done the ironing, tore and colored rags and chored around in P.M. In evening dug clover.
Friday, May 24
20 months today since Jesse left home. In A.M. I cut out some sewing, planted flower seeds and watered the lawns. At I went to ma’s and sewed until nearly dark.
Saturday, May 25
Y.M. and Y.L. MIA conference started. Spent the forenoon cleaning up the house and coloring. Done some patching and sewing. At 5 went to ma’s. Susa and EU were there for supper so ma would have me stay. Supper over at 7-30 1 went home. Prepared and went to the musical. When out went over to the dance for about an hour. Quite an improvement since I went away. Nora Oviatt stayed with us all night.
Sunday, May 26
Got up at 7. Got breakfast. Done the work, fixed Verd for 5.5. At 10 went to ma’s, helped get dinner. Noah Guymon and wife were there also Cheney Vanburen. Ate dinner at 1-15 washed the dishes. The folks all went to meeting. Ma was determined I should go but no I did not. Went home at 2-30 just sat around the rest of the day. Took a bath. There came up the most awful rain and hail storm just as the conference people started home. I was as blue and lonely as a dog all the evening. Oh! If I could only see my darling Husband tonight. I know he too is lonely.
Monday, May 27
Nervy came down and Maude came up and we spent the day making paper flowers.
Tuesday, May 28
Made some more flowers. Helped Lydia some to cut and start her skirt and also cut the waist. Dug clover and jobbed around the rest of the day.
Wednesday, May 29
Spent the day working on the white cassimere waist for Mattie. Pa brot the machine up today.
Thursday, May 30
At 10 AM. Austin came for us and we all went to the graveyard and did our decorating. Came home at 1 and spent the rest of the day finishing Mattie’s waist.
Friday, May 31
Made Verd some pants and spent the rest of the day working on Lydia’s waist.
Saturday, June 1
100 years today since Prest. Brigham Young was born. At 10A.M. we went to the celebration. Went to ma’s for dinner. At 3-30 went to the little dance and also watched the childrens races. Went back to ma’s for a while then home and prepared for bed. When I was almost undressed ma came and wanted me to go to the dance so I dressed and went. Stayed until 12 when the dance closed. Retired at 12:30.
Sunday, June 2
Arose at 9. Fast day so did not prepare breakfast. Got Verd ready for school and sent him with Maud. Spent AM. in sweeping, dusting, etc. Called on Kate and Lizzie Y. for a little while. Dug clover for a while. Grandma went to meeting. In P.M. I wrote to Jesse and at 4 went to ma’s where we made Ice cream. Grandma Johnson from Orangeville came down with Neff and Odd from meeting. Grandma Woodward also came. We made two freezer’s full of cream and had quite a feast. Stayed until almost dark. When I got home grandma was there alone. We retired early.
Monday, June 3
Spent the day finishing Lydia’s waist. Nett came over in the P.M. and did some sewing. I got supper and she left about sundown.
Tuesday, June 4
Spent the day sewing. Made several little articles for future use.
Wednesday, June 5
Done a 2 weeks washing and oh! it was a big one. Was almost tired out. Ma and Maine came up a while in the P.M.
Thursday, June 6
Went up in town in A.M. to send Jesse his patriarchal blessings etc. It was 1:30 when we returned (Verd went too). Grandma went to Relief Society meeting. Susa came up and spent the P.M. I started my gowns and then got supper.
Friday, June 7
Grandma went to Nervys for the day. 1 did the ironing in AM. and made my gowns in P.M.
Saturday, June 8
Spent the whole day cleaning up the house. Cleaned walls, ceiling, windows and curtains swept and dusted and changed things around. Went to ma’s for a little while in evening and filled a cushion with cattails.
Sundav, June 9
Arose late. Sent Verd to school. Done up work and bathed. At I went to ma’s and stayed until they all went to meeting. Came home and wrote to Jesse and spent the rest of the day sitting around. Ma and Lydia came up for a little while in the evening.
Monday, June 10
Wrote to Julia Whitney. Done several little odd jobs and in P.M. grandma and I went to ma’s where we had supper.
Tuesday, June 11
Made Verd a waist, ma an underwaist and done several jobs of finishing. In P.M. late went to P.O. as I am looking very anxiously for a letter from Jesse. None came. I went to Netts for a little while and at 7 went home.
Wednesday, June 12
Spent the A.M. sewing and cutting a dress for Mrs. Boothe. At noon Neff came. We had dinner and went to Ma’s where we spent the P.M. No letter yet. What can be wrong? Ab is sick in Price. Maine went last night.
Thursday, June 13
took my bedding and went to ma’s and washed it. She did some of her washing also. We got thru at noon. Had dinner. Susa came down I cut rug rags in P.M. Went home about sundown.
Friday, June 14
Spent the day making Mrs. Boothes waist.
Saturday, June 15
I am 24 years old today. In A.M. finished several little jobs of sewing. In P.M. took my black skirt to rip up and went to ma’s. We both went up to Susas and stayed until about sundown. Well the letter has just come today.
Sunday, June 16
Fixed dinner and had all the folks come to eat as it was pa’s birthday. After dinner some went to meeting but Ma, Susa, Net and I did not. Net went home sick about 4. Susa and ma stayed until night.
Monday, June 17
Grandma and I went to Nervys and spent the day. Worked on her rug while there.
Tuesday, June 18
Done a big washing. Scrubbed the floor. Dug clover from the garden and arranged to make some skirts for Sr. Jacobson.
Wednesday, June 19
Colored carpet rags and got the two skirts cut out and ready to make. Nervy came down in P.M. We had supper before she went home.
Thursday, June 20
Ironed and colored black in the AM Spent the P.M. sewing on the skirts. Oh! what a job they are.
Friday, June 21
In morning took the skirts up and tried them on. Mary’s fit nice but Sr. Jacobson did not like hers. I fussed for an hour or so with it but it made but little difference with her. When I got home Fern was there and said ma was going to Netts and for me to go. I sewed on the skirts until 11-30 and then went. When I got there Nett was gone to Mags and no ma or any one else was there. Neff came and I stayed until 1-30 but no one came so went to ma’s. They were just starting but we decided not to go. Susa was there so we all stayed at ma’s all the P.M. At 71 went home. Grandma and I went buggy riding with uncle Will and wife. At 9-15 we came home and found the house full to surprise grandma. Spent a pleasant 2 hrs. Sand, etc. picnic, etc and they left for the dance. Grandma was sick all night We did not sleep.
Saturday, June 22
Arose late. Grandma was sick all day. Ma came up with some sewing and stayed until evening. I finished my skirts and then helped her. In evening took skirts home. Sewed a few rags patched and darned until bed time and retired. We slept quite well.
Sunday, June 23
Arose late. Had breakfast. Bathed Verd and got him ready for school. Done up work and bathed and then sat around reading and writing to Jesse until about 6 when ma came and stayed a little while.
Monday, June 24
Stamped and began to work some pillow cases. Neff and Ma came for a little while in P.M. Odd got the machine for a day or so.
Tuesday, June 25
Went to ma’s in P.M. took my cases and finished one, had supper there.
Wednesday, June 26
In P.M. went to Susa’s and helped ma sew for Mame. Had supper there.
Thursday, June 27
Cut rug rags in AM. Went to Nan’s a while in P.M.
Friday, June 28
Worked on pillow slip in A.M. In P.M. grandma and I went to Aunt Cecils where we had supper and stayed until dark. Stopped at Roy’s a while on the way home.
Saturday, June 29
Spent the whole AM. up in town to the sale. In P.M. made Mattties waist. Went to Susas a few minutes in the evening.
Sunday, June 30
Spent the day until 3-30 at home choreing around. Went with ma to Aunt Dool’s until 6-30. Then went to Mames to see Ab who was not so well. Returned home at dark. Wrote to Jesse and retired at 10-30.
Monday, July 1
Spent the day at ma’s making a dress for Mame and helping with her baby’s apron, etc.
Tuesday, July 2
Arose at 5 feeling quite rocky. As soon as breakfast was over began washing. Stayed with it until 12. Got so sick that I had to give up and go to bed and at 12-30 the baby was born. Spent the next 9 days in bed in the hottest weather that I ever saw. Neighbors and friends were very kind while I was sick. The 10th day I was up and dressed. The 13 day stayed up all day. Grandma went to Manti today. The baby has a bad cold and is quite sick, Nervy stayed all night with us.
Tuesday, July 16
He is no better all day. May stayed all night with us.
Wednesday, July 17
He is still cross and fretful. Got letter from Jesse. Sent him $16.00. Ma stayed.
Thursday, July 18
Spent the day at Ma’s. The baby is better. Lauretta stayed with us.
Friday, July 19
Nerve came with Matties waist and Lydia with hers and we spent the day fussing with them.
Saturday, July 20
Cleaned the house in the A.M. and in P.M. went to Ma’s. Helped on the girls dresses.
Sunday, July 21
Did not get things straightened until 2-30 as I spent the morning puffing some apricots up fresh. Went to Kate’s a little while in the P.M. Grandma came at 6.
Monday, July 22
Nerve and Lydia came again with the waists and stayed all day. I helped them and put up some more apricots.
Tuesday, July 23
Spent the day at ma’s making me a waist. Did not go home until 8 o’clock
Wednesday, July 24
Spent the whole day out in town. Had dinner at Mames.
Thursday, July 25
Grandma ironed I wrote to Jesse and went up town in the AM. In P.M. picked and pealed some apples.
Friday, July 26
Spent the day putting up apples fresh, making jelly, etc.
Saturday, July 27
Spent the day at ma’s making grandma a waist and myself an underskirt.
Sunday, July 28
Went to S.S. Had dinner at aunt Dools and then back to meeting.
NOTES
Original spelling and structure has been retained so far as readable.
“Grandma” refers to Luella’s mother-in-law, Margaret Ann Johnson Washburn, who lived with them much of their married life.
“Nervy” refers to Jesse’s sister Minerva Washburn Black.
The child born was Jesse Nile Washburn.
There are pictures taken from this mission period. Also, a map of the area covered in Jesse’s mission is included with the “transcription” of his mission journal.
