|
The Morrell Diary
Fragment of a diary of Rev. Alexander H. Morrell,
covering the period May 17th 1882 to July 6th 1882
Part 2
Transcribed by Jeffrey Brooke-Stewart. May 2007
Tue. June 6th 82 G.W. Steere and Bro Mowry visited and as I am informed arrange [arranged.
JBS] with Bro O'Brien some of his business matters.
The weather seems now much more settled and warmer.
Tonight the S.School met to sing in preparation for the S.S. Concert next Sab. night at 71/2.
In spite of my efforts to the contrary I find myself anxious, uncomfortably so, as to the
outcome of that effort, for several unusual reasons. But I will hope for the best. Put in more
seeds today — in garden.
Lizzie [AHM's wife. JBS] started for Prov. RI by stage today noon.
|
|
|
Bill from Seth Mowry for painting the Meeting House, outside and inside, and for making repairs, dated 1883 and
1884, during the pastorate of Rev. Morrell. From church files.
|
|
Wed June 7th 82 Mr brother of Geo White, Fenner White,28 etc, was buried
today from the Cong Ch in Chepachet. Services by the pastor Rev Johnson. Text "Lo teach us
to number our days" and a brief talk and a prayer — no singing. Mr W — was insane for more
than 30 years.
Thurs. June 8th Mrs Morrell left for Providence by stage for Depot at noon today. Weather
warm, gardens taking a fresh start.
Mr Sloucom [clearly the Slocum mentioned earlier. Perhaps AHM was not sure of the
spelling. He uses both versions over the next pages. JBS] of our village died today. His
death had been expected for days past. During more than a year past he had been failing in his
mental powers untill [sic] his reason had left him.
The burial services of Rev. J.M.B — on the 17th page are of special interest.
Whiskey Bond Extensions — frauds etc below at this page.
[Here AHM has pasted news cuttings from the Evening Bulletin of June 6
and 7 concerning the bond issues and the funeral of Rev Brewster. JBS]
The death of Mr Sloucom, today, June 8th, it is presumed may be quite soon followed by
several others — Viz: Mr O'Brien and A. Smith. Two other cases cannot probably hold
out many months. Viz: Mr. Taylor and Mrs. Smith each having a cancer.
I have not a little care in regard to Mr. Sloucom's funeral services if I should be called
upon to conduct them. They are to be on Sab. next and the house will be full. He was not a
Christian. In such cases the minister is often tried sorely to discern what to say. But it is not my
custom to flatter nor denounce on such occasions. Called at family of Mr. Sloucom tonight. His
son from Prov. RI was present and who on behalf of the widow and daughters desired me to
conduct the funeral services at 1 P.M. on Sab. the 11th inst — to which I assented.
Fri 9th June 82 About house — put wood in shed. Mrs. Morrell and Lide returned from Prov
tonight — weather warm. Garden growing nicely — made preparations in part for Mr. Slocums
Funeral.
Saturday June 10 82
This AM the sky is overcast — clouds favor rain soon. Experienced a hard useless night
— last night.
Am feeling poorly today — but having mental labour. To do my will must push my
flagging energies to the tasks which my heart likes to perform.
I have on this page, placed an article explanatory of the Egyptian Question.
[AHM has pasted a page from the June 9th Bulletin concerned with the near
bankrupt state of Egypt, brought about by the 'reckless prodigality of the Khedive -
Ismail Pasha.' I do not know why this was of such interest to AHM. JBS]
Sab. June 11 1882 The curtains of night are about. (81/2 PM) and I am alone in the quiet of my
study, reviewing the events of the past day.
1. The morning was raining. The shower began before 10 O'clock PM last night.
Our Sabbath school as a consequence was not quite so well attended as usual. It was voted by
a large majority to postpone the SS concert to 5 PM next Sabbath.
2. At 1 1/2 PM I conducted the funeral services of Mr. Charles Allen Slocum29 at his residence
in our village. (Simeon Sweet30 superintending the funeral) Select music led by Walter A Reede
with Miss Marcia Arnold31 at the instrument.
Pieces sung:
1. "We Shall Sleep, but not Forever"
2. "Gathering Home, one by one" and
3. "Sweet Bye and Bye"
My text was Ps 48:1 "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." I found it
easy speaking although I had, with special anxiety anticipated this service. I then read a prayer —
an address to the mourners bringing in all the service within the limits of an hour. The house was
filled, while many remained outside. The following facts in regard to Mr. S. and I think it
worthwhile to record,
He was born in Exeter RI 1805 Mar 3rd
His age was 77 years 2 months and 19 days.
He lived with his wife more than 50 years
He had been a resident of Chepachet 47 years
The last year of his life, his reason gradually gave way, until for some weeks before his death he
lost all command of his rational powers.
I dined by invitation at Tafts Tavern, with relatives of the diseased [sic].
At 5 PM our praise and prayer meeting was well attended and especially interesting.
|
|
|
Bill to the Church from Simeon Sweet, mentioned in the Diary entry for June 11. From church files.
|
|
Monday June 12 82 Just in from early work in our garden waiting up [upon JBS] the biddies [a
term for hens. JBS] and feeding a pig I had the wisdom or folly, to purchase on Sat the 10th
inst. Her age is 7 weeks and some days. Her name is "Betty" so have we decided in memory of
a pet and partner of the same gender, years since presented to Mrs. Morrell as a gift from Pres.
N.C. Bracket of Storer College Harpers Ferry West Va. and which proved to be not a small
favor to us. Paid for "Betty" $3.75
For the present, her quarters are in a very comfortable enclosure for the hens and which
appears to be quite satisfactory for her pig's life. The hens sometimes gaze and poise
themselves as if reverently contemplating the mysterious characteristics of their wingless
featherless and four legged companion! Thus far, however, "Betty" is master of the situation
walking leisurely about uttering self complacent ejaculations; peculiar to the family of animals to
which she belongs.
Wind is from
the west this morning, refreshing but too cool for vegetable growth. The sky is clear, and the
bright sun beams bathe one with their genial influence as if it were the breath of the Lord.
After a fair rest last night, I am feeling to rejoice in rather more than my usual vigor for
Mondays and that I was so highly favoured with strength and confidence during the peculiar
responsibilities of yesterday — funeral of Mr. Sloucom.
|
|
|
The Chepachet Free Will Baptist Church parsonage where Rev. Morrell lived from 1881-1885. The house still
stands in its original location just to the east of St. Eugene's Church. Courtesy of Edna Kent.
|
|
Supor- of Sayles and Valentine Mills and his lady were at 5 PM service last night. He
has been in town some two months. I hastened to make his acquaintance. He expressed a
desire to make further acquaintance with our people. I shall soon call at residence.
9 1/2 PM, called on Rev Johnson this PM. He has quite an extensive "hot house" for
fruits and flowers, also a large garden and hen establishment and seemed to take pleasure in
showing to me the varieties and extent of his operations in these branches of business. We
arranged for the service of the 4th Sabbath in the month, — as follows. Capt Cyrus Sturdivant
who is to visit us to speak at our ch at 12 1/2 PM and be with us at the 5 PM services and speak
at the Cong'l House at night - both congregations to follow him. I enjoyed a very pleasant call
on Rev J indeed.
A young man, Mr. Edward Atkinson, whose marriage with Miss Mary A Sweet, I
officiated at Dec 11th 1882 [should be 1881 JBS] came his first trip with fish and other
products of the sea, and some of the land on a peddling tour. We purchased clams and fresh
Macker [mackerel JBS] of him, and trusted him good fortune, since his marriage (he's one of
our congregation) He has felt as he would like to get out of Bar Tender in one of the liquor
selling hotels of Chepachet and now he has taken the step, and feels much encouraged in his
new line of business. He expressed to me freely of his desire to attend church and he is, I think,
quite thoughtful on the matter of his duty to God. His wife is not a Christian, a member of the
Sab. School, and he now hopes to be able to attend it with her. He is of Irish parentage, but a
genial pleasant naturally interesting young man. I feel encouraged that he may e'er long become
a Christian. The better part of the community cheer him along in his change of business. He, I
am told has been solicited to open a grog shop of his own but utterly refused the inducements
that have been used to tempt him in that direction. I fancy that the position of this young couple
together with the full attendance of our Praise and prayer meeting and ch are indications of
special good to us as a ch. e'er long.32
Friday PM 7 O clock June 16
The week thus far has passed with unusual apparent rapidity! On Thursday morning at a
little past 8 O clock AM, Christopher O'Brien, one of our members, passed from earth — we
trust to a better world. He is to be buried on Sabbath next from our place of worship at 12
noon. His age was 71 years 5 months and 13 days. I preached the sermon for his wife's funeral
Dec 7th 1881. His will be 7 months and 13 days later than hers! Her age was 76 years.33
The weather has been warmer than before this season and windy and tonight it is safe to
say it is hot!
The S. School concert for 5 PM next Sab. in course of preparation and a rehearsal in
part took place in the ch last night — adding a few to our prayer meeting at the close — 12
person at Prayer Meeting.
I am feeling not a little careful in regard to the funeral services of Mr. O Brien. The
order of the "Sons of Temperance" of which he was a member, I learn, are to come out in
honor of his connection with them.
Sent for Bro A. A. Smith's newspaper of the weist [west? JBS] this week for six
months.
Sat June 17 1882 Weather hot and top of earth dry and roads dusty. Feeling quite ill —
stomach much deranged at each night and day with burning pain — fasting at night for relief. Also
special care in regard to the funeral of Christopher O Brien, a member of our ch — knowing that
the people from both congregations of our town will be present, — also the order of the Sons of
Temperance of which he was a member, are to turn out in uniform or regalia on the occasion. (I
am not a member of the order, nor of any secret organization, nor was I ever one.) Bro O Brien
had not been on speaking terms (so I am informed) with his family (children) and all combined
to make me dread the duties of the day, and feel an unwelcome responsibility. It seems mean to
require any minister to preach a funeral service on such an occasion. I lost sleep over the case
and I felt sick soul and body. I wrote my sermon and remarks for the occasion.
1. Sermon text "And there was no more sea" Rev 21:1
2. Remarks concerning the deceased
3. " to the relatives
4. " to the church
5. " to the Temperance order
Sab. June 18 82
The house was well filled and solemnly attentive. I was raised above fear from the
opening of the services. Rev Johnson was with me, read the scripture and offered prayers. I
think the Lord helped me very much. I was so thankful. I went to the grave with the sup of the
funeral and with his team and his nephew, just in rear of a horse wagon containing the
temperance brothers. They took charge of the services at the grave, Mr Johnson acting as
chaplain. Soon after reaching home rain began to fall. It seemed as if our S. School concert at 5
PM would be defeated, but before the hour the clouds parted and we enjoyed a good turn-out
and a first class occasion — a full house to hear. And thus closed the day of extra cares and
labours and at night I feel much better in body as well as in spirit than I had before for several
days.
June 19 82 Hot weather — found it necessary to keep rather quiet in mid-day heat, my head so
readily feels the heat.
Calls from the teachers - Misses Arnold.34 Both (2) the same sir [sic] name but not
relatives. I learn that they are engaged for next year which will be satisfactory to nearly all, if not
quite our church will be pleased not only that Miss Marcia Arnold is a good teacher, but she is
special help to us in Sabbath school with especially "concerts." She is a good reader.
Tuesday June 20 82 Weather cooler and wind brisk from the N. West. Mr Olny aided me in
'furrowing' for beans and corn a small piece of ground next to my garden. "Lyde" was taken by
Atkinson and wife to Mr Timothy Sweet's for dinner.35 Mr. A. wishes to get the house to live
in, owned by Bro. B Aldrich.
Peddlers
Of various sorts abound. Some fish, clams — fruits, etc. Several large carts with groceries (and I
know certainly) dry goods and many articles and trinkets kept in shops, besides. The [They
JBS] must cut in not a little to the regular trade of the stores. Well this is "free trade," I take it, of
one sort at least.
Rumours
Concerning the sanity matters of Bro O'Brien and his own habits are on flood since his burial, of
a slanderous character. How much truth is in them would be difficult to tell, I felt for a few
hours, sad, in regard to them, lest false or true, at this particular time, bring some reproach on
the Ch and temperance cause. But I have given it all up — I have enough also to care for. This I
cannot change. I better act in regard to those things that I may be able to remedy, that injure the
cause, or to prevent that which threatens to occur. One thing is certain, the church needs some
work in discipline.
Atkinson and Taft
Atkinson has served in the Taft's Hotel seven years. He was married to Miss May A.
Sweet [Mary is the given name used for the entry June 12th, and indeed Mary is the name
on her tombstone. Perhaps May was a nickname, or perhaps this is simply an error. JBS]
of this town Dec 11, 81, but continued to tend bar. That is, sell liquor and do all sorts of work
around the establishment. He was very efficient and his service highly valued by the proprietors,
although his wages had been only 15.00 per month.
For months he had felt that he would be glad to leave the Hotel and especially for the
purpose of quitting the sale of liquors, and that he might have the opportunity of going to
something on the Sabbath. And the arrangement was made with Mr. T to let him go and also
furnish a house and to let him start peddling fish etc.
He had been about it some two weeks, and doing well. Manay [many JBS] friends
patronized him and cheered him on — indeed, we as a Ch felt special interest in him, for his sake,
and for his wife's sake who was a member of our Sabbath School.
Today, Mr Taft took away his house because he refused to go at his call, tend Bar and
do the wash as at former times, on the Sabbath. Mr A said he wanted his Sabbath to go with
his wife to church, and further more, he was ashamed that he sold liquors so long for anybody.
This ungenerous treatment by his old friend he had served so hurt his feelings, very
much, but with true Irish pluck, he is of Irish parentage, he told Mr T he would never go back to
sell liquors for him again, he believed, also, that he was capable of getting a living in some other
way. He thinks Ts object was to take away the house and drive him back into his employ.
Many are the friends of sobriety and of the young man who will aid him, if he needs it.
We have patronized him and shall do all we can to strengthen his purpose.
We learn that in consideration of his early and late extra work and faithfulness, Mt T
gave him the house. This I have learned since writing on the last page. If so, how contemptably
[sic] mean was this liquor seller, to take it from him that, who he acknowledged was his just
due, — simply because he would [not JBS] serve his interest on the Sabbath. The number of
liquor sellers of this day is small, who are not devoid of moral principle.
|
|
|
The Taft Hotel, located at the southeast corner of Douglas Hook Road and Main Street. It was once the home of
Samuel Y. Atwell. It burned in 1913. It is mentioned in Diary entries for May 23 (both entries) and June 11; it is the "liquor-selling" hotel referred to in the Diary entry for June 12, and
is featured in the Diary entry for June 20. Courtesy of the Glocester Heritage Society.
|
|
Wed June 21 82 I was up at 4 this AM after one of the best nights rest for weeks - and before
breakfast at 7 I had planted some 600 hills of beans and nearly a qt of marrow fat peas for late
use. So that now I have my garden the same as all planted. I shall however try to find a place to
put in a few hills of a particular sort of bean — given me by Mr W Neff,36 a neighbour in
service at Mr Warren Arnolds37 - the old fashioned cranberry speckled bean I think my
father used to raise in his garden. I had seen none of these for many years. Not having to speak
at our place next Sabbath (but at N. Situate [Scituate JBS]
In the AM) Capt C. Sturdivant being expected with us here, I do not find it essential to press
my head for study. I find I must give it comparative rest, this hot weather.
And now for the ladies coming off this P.M. - - - -
Before going to the L circle, [Ladies Circle JBS] by the kindness of Mrs White,
myself, wife and Lyde were favoured with delightful ride in her carriage not only to the "circle"
but beyond the reservoir to the residence of Mr. Hopkins, where our good Deacon Isaac
Winsor and wife reside. I found him, as I feared, sick from pneumonia and being a man of
upwards of 70 years we all are doubtful of his recovery.38 Talked briefly with him — and
offered a brief petition on his behalf, all of which he seemed to appreciate and expressed his
feelings on this life — "that whichever way his disease terminated, it would all be well" How
pleasant in the midst of sadness, on our part to know our sick friends can say as much as that.
The Circle
was unusually full today — reckoning the family, 46 took refreshments — the details of the
anticipated strawberry festival Sat night were arranged and an excellent visit 'generally' enjoyed.
Young Atkinson and young Goodman39 were present. Also, Dea, and George W Steere and
Rev Geo. E. Hopkins.
Thurs June 22 82 Weather really hot.
Friday June 23 82 Weather still hot — not feeling so well this hot weather.
Sat June 24th 82 Bro Capt Cyrus Sturdivant came by rail and stage from Prov. tonight and met
with us in festival. [this is the previously mentioned strawberry festival. JBS] This festival was
largely attended. Miss Arnold and Lyde furnished music, Miss Arnold and Low reading. Miss A
two pieces, Miss Low two. Everything provided was sold. The occasion was orderly and all
seemed very agreeable. Mr Wade, presented me with two qts. of
strawberries near the close.40
Our affairs in
their relations to the community seem to be commanding more and more attention — I mean of
Ch and society matters, and I can but hope is a good omen.
Sabbath June 25th 1882 A Hot day — hotest [sic] for the season. Had Parkhersts team and
spoke at N Situate [Scituate JBS] the AM to upwards of forty persons. Text "Whoso offered
praise Glorified Me" I enjoyed a refreshing time.
This Sab
Closes the year (one per month) at this place. So far as any expression is given by the people,
the interest is not a little improved in some particulars. I am desired to continue and I will do so
but not for any stipulated time. [It seems that the North Scituate church was without a
minister. Perhaps attendance had dropped off at some time previously and they had
been unable to pay for a minister. As was common, neighboring ministers had stepped in
to minister to the small congregation. Clearly AHM had agreed to provide the pulpit once
a month for a 12 month period. This period having come to a close, he has agreed to
continue the arrangement - but not for a stipulated time, perhaps to nudge the 40+
congregation to be about the work of calling a minister. JBS]
A young man
By the name is to speak there next Sabbath.
Returning at 1 PM assisted Capt Cyrus Sturdivant in his services in our ch. Rev.
Johnson and his cong were present. And Mr. Johnson41 offered prayer. Bro Sturdivant
gave us some of his experiences in Christian work amongst prisoners. Incidents very thrilling
indeed. A large audience listened with tearful attention.
At 5PM he occupied most of the time in supplementing his AM address.
At 7 1/2 He spoke again. His subject, the conversion of Murphy and others in Portland
Jail Me. The audience was deeply interested.
Collections at our ch for him 3.50
AM. The other ch 5.81
Total today = 9.31
He sold several copies of his life
He gave out an appointment at our ch for Monday night
Thus today passed, I believe in a very profitable manner.
[At this page, AHM has pasted a copy of the program for the Storer College graduating class activities of Tuesday May 30th 1882. He has also written a side note simply saying "church at Hagerstown
organized Sab June 25th 1882." JBS]
Mond June 26th 82
To night Capt Sturdivant spoke in the Ch, F Bap, at 6. Some 50 signed the pledge. Several
new names. We think the cause of Gospel Temperance has received a fresh impulse here. Dea.
S.A. Steere signed the pledge for the first time! An occasion of special satisfaction to many of
us. I feel encouraged that others will follow.
Tues June 27 82 Capt C left us by stage this morning having made it his home with us during his
stay in C [Chepachet JBS] — except taking tea at Bro W. H. Steere's on Mond. PM with me.
One of the untemperate [sic] men of C let us [(use) JBS] his horse and carriage free! Has since
told me he would sign the pledge.
Wed June 28th Hot, about house — not at all well.
Thurs " 29 Fixing panes for window screens, etc
Frid " 30 Meeting House cleaning today — well done — hired Mrs Olney to do our part.
13 at Prayer meeting tonight in the Ch. Guiteau was hanged today at 12
40PM. The Bulletin tonight had full account of the Hanging and I preserve it on the opposite
page. [Guiteau was Charles Julius Guiteau who assassinated President Garfield on July 2
1881. AHM has posted two full pages from the June 30th Bulletin on these next two pages.
There is also an advertisement announcing a reception for Michael Davitt in the Infantry
Armory on July 1st. Davitt was an outspoken opponent of the British treatment of the
Irish - "...he comes to tell us of England's oppression and England's outrages..." JBS]
Sat July 1 1882 Very much needed rain began to fall before 6 PM last night — and still
continues to fall — wind from the south east. Immense good to vegetation must be one of the
beneficial results.
Doves and Peas
One of my village neighbours, has Doves. "Fan tailed white and beautiful. They are voraciously
fond of peas. Very early in the morning and at any other time of the day, Appetite demands they
come into our garden, dig with their bills around a pea just above the serface [sic] down to the
peas itself and "gobble it up." I kindly spoke with the owner as regard to it and he said it was
almost impossible for him to shut them up as the male bird feeds the female while sitting on her
eggs, but was willing to pay damages. I assured him that none would be demanded, but that I
thought with watchfulness on our part, for a week or more, the peas would be out of the way of
the intruders. All seemed pleasant between us.
Thus birds,
Of the different species, are exceedingly destructive to certain grown crops, and do great
damage to people in this vicinity. I honestly think, it is not right to keep them, out loose at those
seasons of the year when they trespass upon the rights of ones fellow citizens. My fancy for
such creatures should not lead me to indulge it at the cost of the time, convenience and
prosperity of others.
Learned yesterday while at Ch cleaning — by William Sprague, that his mother was at
Oakland, and would be at ch on Sab next. She was Sup of our Sab School when I first came
here.
Sab. School
Having the promise of some new scholars, tomorrow I feel, like opening the 3rd quarter of this
year with special zeal and cheerfully hope of success.
[Here AHM has pasted the 3rd and 4th pages of the day's Evening Bulletin, which
includes articles on the "Friend's Educational Conference," "The Planets in July," "The
Irish and Mr. Davitt" and "Education in RI." None of these would have required the
pasting of the entire sheet, so I am not sure what was of such special interest. Certainly
the Davitt note was of interest.
On the next page of the diary, AHM has pasted page 7 from the same Evening Bulletin
with continuing notes on the execution of Guiteau.
And then, on the facing page, are two articles. One describing Guiteau's unmarked
grave, under the heading "To Oblivion." The second article is concerned with the
autopsy findings concerning Guiteau's brain, under the heading "A Good Brain." One
reason why Rev. Morrell may have been especially interested in this story was that
President Garfield, whom Guiteau assassinated, had been a strong supporter of Storer
College while in Congress, as noted in the Free Baptist Cyclopaedia at page 625.
The next page carries Monday's Bulletin description of Michael Davitt's talk. JBS]
July 4th 82 (Tuesday) The past night was cool and was bright and promising comfortable this
morning. But by noon clouds resembling showers gathering might be seen in different parts of
the heavens. At 1 1/2 public exercises were held in the cong'l church. Mr. Sayles presiding,
Rev Palmer, pastor of Day's Ch. At N. Situate was the leading speaker. By invitation of Mr
Valentine and Rev Johnson I was on the stand to follow Mr. P to take some part in the
exercise. I was expected by the chairman to offer prayer but I felt it better that Mr Palmer
should take that part, he being an out of town man. He did so at my request.
Music of excellent quality. Mr W.A. Read vocal and Valentine instrumental leaders.
America and other patriotic pieces were sung — the last "the Star Spangled Banner." Mr Palmer
occupied from 25 to 30 minutes. 1. He outlined the history of Israel at Kadish Barnea and said
that the two reports of the committee sent forward to inspect the promised land, the one
favourable the other disheartening, were representative of the two parties in our own country.
One hopeful, the [other JBS] discouraging. He was inclined to the hopeful side.
Second, he contrasted the present with the past to show how great had been the
progress of the first century of our national life — modes of life — of travel — of papers and books
and schools etc. And since we are a great country, we have much to do and hope for in the
future.
1 We should vote right
2 Promote Christianity
His remarks were well received. He had only brief notes. His mannerism was a little hurried to
make his listener feel as easy in the listening as he should.
In what I had to say,
I first commended the address for
A beauty and sweetness,
Second, recounted some of the facts connected with the Icelandic and Norwegian
discoveries of America as early as from 986 to 1007 AD.
_________________________________________________________
Third, the naming of America by Americus Vespucius [the Latin version of Amerigo
Vespucci. JBS] and the false claim he set up to the discovery of the new world 7 years after
Columbus land [landed JBS] at San Salvidor in 1492. With some facts on the history of
Columbus.
________________________________________________________
Fourth, The 4 periods of our history.
1 Discovery
2 Colonial
3 Revolutionary
4 National
5 Our work for the future
42,000,000 - the next centennial will find us with 500,000,000!
We are what the past has made us. We must make the future.
The selfish farmer who will not plant the ornamental tree, and make improvement
because he and his sons are not to remain at the old homestead, should not [be JBS] our pattern
of improvement as a nation.
After these exercises, the picnic was enjoyed under the beautiful shade trees in the ch
yard — consisting of clam chowder, — ice cream, — varieties of cake — bananas and lemonade.
We the speakers had it "free gratis" Mrs Palmer was also present. She was born in "the
sandwich islands' a missionaries daughter, Mr. P went there to teach and married her. I found a
very agreeable acquaintance with them. She was acquainted with Mr Basset whose father was a
warm and intimate friend of mine more than 30 years since in Hollowell Me.
Tonight the Musical and Literary Entertainment at the Cong. Ch was well attended
although clouds overcast the sky and gently falling rain came on before the hour for attending.
At the close of the exercises in the Audience Room, the picnic of the PM was continued in the
Vestry. Admittance to the Ex — 10 cents.
This notice shows the persons and parts taken in the concert. [And here, AHM has
pasted the Entertainment program. In the diary page margin, he has written;] Miss Lowe
excels as reader and actor. She is small in stature, fairly intellectual in appearance, genial in
spirit, blending modesty with self-assurance most attractively. She is now a favorite of our
citizens. Her first effort in Chepachet was a concert in our ch. She is boarding in the family of
our Bro. James Brown42 2 1/2 miles from Ch and teaching the Dist school in that
neighbourhood.43 Her home is in Providence RI. She attends our meetings and communes with
us. She is a Methodist Church member and yet very catholic in spirit.
|
|
|
The program for the Fourth of July celebration participated in by Rev. Morrell and described in the Diary entry
for that day. From the Diary of Alexander H. Morrell.
|
|
Wed. Morning July 5 82 Rain still falling. It will do much good to the crops. A letter yesterday
from Rev D Powell of Fleming West Va in response to one of sympathy from us in regard to the
drowning of his oldest son in Newburne N.C. Whither he had gone to work in the Printing
office of "The Free Will Baptist" published in that city.
His death occurred on the evening of Sat June 3rd 1882. The affliction is severe but the
Grace of God is equal to the want of the parents in this trying hour. He was an excellent
Christian young man. Age 19 years, 5 mos, and 5 days.
6 PM, by request of Bro. Powell, wrote an obituary of his son for the Morning Star and
sent it forward today noon.44 It has been a day of hard struggle with physical infirmities — head
and stomach bad with general stiffness of all my limbs, and depression of my powers. Felt it
duty to call Bro B Aldrich45 this PM learning that he was not as well as usual yesterday. Found
him better. His ninetieth birthday is the 21 of this month. The last 15 months — the time that I
have known him — has reduced his energies not a little. He will pass to the Better land not long
hence. Rain continues this PM and weather cool enough to require constant fire in our dwelling.
Corn is backward. Haying and hoeing come together this year.
Our church is prompt in paying my salary. The last quarter ending June 30th was paid
today by the treasurers Dea Smith, A Steere = $125.00. Thus I am enabled to keep all my
financial matters in good condition, so that what little credit I ask is most cheerfully granted. I
regard the prompt discharge of financial duties, both on the part of the ch to the pastor and of
the pastor to the public is of first class importance in order to his success in holding the
confidence of the people.
Thurs July 6 82 Delightful day - not hot. Lots of grass sold at auction - O Brien's with
others.
Prayer meeting met at 8 as per time. Some brethren came just after the closing — They
have been accustomed to be late, and on Thursday week since, I told them kindly that I could
not afford to spend 1/2 or 3/4 of an hour of precious time delaying the meeting to accominade
[sic] them. And if they desired the commencement at 8 1/2 I would just as leave it be so, or even
9 PM only let us begin on time, or quite near it. They replied, begin at 8. All were pleased in
regard to it. So I waited until some 7 to 10 minutes after 8 and opened by singing, prayers,
reading brief scripture passages and offering remarks. Lyde, our daughter, spoke. Mr. L
Mowry and Geo. W. Steere only were present besides, but had nothing to say. I closed at
about 8 1/2 and just after the Dea and his brother came. The former did not get out of his
carriage having just visited the P.O. after calling into the village. I confess I was glad we were
through.
The meeting in future shall begin at the time they set and close in season, no matter who is
present or absent.
Fourth of July etc
[Here AHM has pasted the Evening Bulletin of July 5 describing the various local
July 4 celebrations including a detailed description of the Bristol celebration and parade.
JBS]
_______________________________________________________________
And here the diary ends with an index of the previous entries organized by subject.
|
