Sever Severson kept a diary in 1864, writing in it every day from January 1 until September 26, four days before he succumbed to dysentery. He remarks almost daily on the weather and the productivity of his wagonmaking business, and also comments on his travels, local elections, visits to friends and family, his sales, his purchases, and the amount of cash he had on hand.
Sever’s spelling is variable and phonetic, as was common through the middle of the 19th century in the U.S. For instance, instead of “stayed”, he will sometimes write “Stad” while at other times writing “Stayd”, “Staed” or “sted”. Sever also only infrequently used punctuation, leading to confusion in a few cases. To help better understand his diary, I have provided edited versions of his entries.
Although Sever wrote his diary entries in English, his Norwegian education is evidenced in a couple of ways. He commonly slips into the Germanic convention of capitalizing nouns, common in Norwegian orthography until the 1907 reform of the language. He also occasionally slips into Norwegian; for example, on July 10 he writes “at Meeting in John Fjelds Kirke Church” (“kirke” is Norwegian for “church”). In other ways, however, he seems to be pushing himself to break with Norwegian; for example, rather than using the word “begin” (the cognate of the Norwegian “begynne”), he opts to use the word “commence.”
There are many entries along the lines of “L 1 day H 1 day A ½ day”. Sever employed several men to work for him in his shops and on other projects, and it appears these notations were his way of recording the time each man worked on that day for purposes of payroll.
What follows is a first draft of a full transcription. Please let me know of any mistakes you find, or if you can interpret words that I have not been able to understand. Red type face indicates words and names I have not yet been able to decipher. Green type face indicates transcribed words or names for which I do not have full confidence.
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Friday, January 1, 1864 |
intencely Cold 38 Dge below Ziro home all day |
Intensely cold 38° below zero. At home all day. |
| Saturday, January 2, 1864 |
still Cold worked in the shop |
Still cold today. Worked in the shop. |
| Sunday, January 3, 1864 |
home all day | At home all day. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Monday, January 4, 1864 |
Election in B. Earth to rais Money for to get Volunture + got them at Night |
An election was held in Black Earth to raise money to pay volunteer soldiers, which we hired that night. |
| Tuesday, January 5, 1864 |
went to Madison on noon train with the Quota of Volunteers of B.Earth |
Went to Madison on the noon train with Black Earth’s quota of volunteer soldiers. |
| Wednesday, January 6, 1864 |
Com home from Madison to day |
I came home from Madison today. |
| Thursday, January 7, 1864 |
Worked in the Shop on Cutter + Slaight |
Worked in the shop on a cutter and a sleigh. |
| Friday, January 8, 1864 |
Worked all day in the Shop |
Worked all day in the shop. |
| Saturday, January 9, 1864 |
worked in the Shop |
Worked in the shop. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Sunday, January 10, 1864 |
home all day | At home all day. |
| Monday, January 11, 1864 |
Kari Oarler knows a Girl to Sew Pants Vest + Coat |
Karl Oarler knows a girl I can hire to sew pants, a vest and a coat. |
| Tuesday, January 12, 1864 |
sold Coal + Iron for over 20 dollar |
I sold coal and iron for over $20.00 |
| Wednesday, January 13, 1864 |
sold Sleigh Shoes to Andew Thomson on Cr. |
I sold sleigh shoes to Andrew Thomson on credit. |
| Thursday, January 14, 1864 |
working on Cutter | Worked on the cutter. |
| Friday, January 15, 1864 |
Election in Vermont to rais Money + Volunture I at home [finicea] to Cutter from B.Smith Shop + broaght to Paintshop |
An election was held in Vermont, WI, to raise money and volunteer soldiers. I was at home and fetched the cutter from the blacksmith shop and brought it to the paintshop. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday, January 16, 1864 |
Painted Cutter wether Mild Færelandet Received the first number [No day Luis dit] |
Painted the cutter today. The weather was mild. Færelandet [newspaper] received the first issue [No day Luis dit] |
| Sunday, January 17, 1864 |
I + wife + Mary Amos was at Meeting in Vermont + to Daakken on visit good Sleigh rid up & down Wether Faire on hand 95 |
My wife and I and Mary Amos were at a meeting in Vermont, WI, and then went to Daakken (Gulbrand Olsen Docken) for a visit. We had a good sleigh ride there and back. The weather was fair today. $95.00 cash on hand. |
| Monday, January 18, 1864 |
L ¾ day H ½ day A l½ day Painting on Cutter Salled much Ihon Guter + Nuub Rustebakke. & Cow Caffed first heard that Knud Monson was enlisted |
Luis worked ¾ of a day. Halsten and Andrew each worked a half day. Continued painting the cutter. Sold much iron gutter and William A. Nuub Rustebakke. Our cow calved. Today I learned that Knud Monson had enlisted as a volunteer soldier. |
| Tuesday, January 19, 1864 |
Settled with Isaacson in full A.3 hours + paid him 500 rced for work 500 Luis 1 day. H 1 day Andrw went to Madison Streping Cutter to see K. Monson 100.47 Money on hand 100,75 |
I settled my accounts with Isaacson in full. Andrew worked 3 hours and I paid him $5.00 for his work. Luis and Halsten each worked a full day. Andrew went to Madison to see Knud Monson. Stripped a cutter today. $100.75 cash on hand. |
| Wednesday, January 20, 1864 |
Luis 1 Day H 1 day on hand $95 Whether Cloudy worked in Shop at Cutter Letter from John Adams aboght thad |
Luis and Halsten both worked a full day. Halsten worked a full day. It was cloudy today. I worked in the shop on the cutter. I received a letter from John Adams about trade. $95.00 cash on hand. |
| Thursday, January 21, 1864 |
L 1 day H 1 day A 4½ hour Cold Wind + Cloudy Money on hand $100.50 |
Luis and Halsten both worked a full day, and Andrew worked 4 ½ hours. It was cloudy today with a cold wind. $100.50 cash on hand |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Friday, January 22, 1864 |
paid Johnson 75 Dollars borrowed money Cash Cris mass paid wood Sawyer $4.05 bought Flour for 250 on hand $21 dollar L 1 day H½ An ¾ K. Monson at B.E. |
I repaid Johnson $75 for money I borrowed for Christmas. I paid the wood sawyer $4.05 and bought flour for $2.50. Luis worked a full day, Halsten worked a half day, and Andrew worked ¾ day. K. Monson was at Black Earth today. $21.00 cash on hand. |
| Saturday, January 23, 1864 |
sold one Cutter to Batz + one to Lord L 1 day H 1 A 8½ ours Sold one Cutter to Lord on hand $22.19 |
I sold a cutter to Batz and another to Lord. Luis and Halsten each worked a full day, and Andrew worked 8 ½ hours. $22.19 cash on hand. |
| Sunday, January 24, 1864 |
riding out with Kaaeson in a New Cutter |
I rode out with Karlson in a new cutter. |
| Monday, January 25, 1864 |
paid my Tax $28.32 Sent Letter to Buresse + to my Sister Anne Strong Thaw on hand $46ºº sold one Wagon to Lady not delivered L 1 day H 1 day A 1 day |
I paid my tax of $28.32. I sent a letter to Buresse and another to my sister Anne. Strong thaw today. Sold a wagon to Lady, not yet delivered. Luis, Halsten, and Andrew each worked a full day. $46.00 cash on hand. |
| Tuesday, January 26, 1864 |
Great Thaw snow melting fast L.1.d. H.1. A.1. received Letter from Knud Brusveen on hand $49.75 |
A great thawing today, and the snow is melting fast. Luis, Halsten, and Andrew each worked a full day. I received a letter from Knud Brusveen. $49.75 cash on hand. |
| Wednesday, January 27, 1864 |
A 1. H. 1 day Wather warm snow melts on hand $50.ºº |
Andrew and Halsten each worked a full day. The weather is warm and the snow continues to melt. $50.00 cash on hand. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Thursday, January 28, 1864 |
A.1 day H. 1 day in the Evening Lightning + raining home all day + worked in the Shop. on hand $60ºº |
Andrew and Halsten each worked a full day. It is raining and there was lightning this evening. I was home all day and worked in the shop. $60.00 cash on hand. |
| Friday, January 29, 1864 |
Raining + hailing all day L 1 day A 1 day H 1 day painting Cutter + wagon Bad on hand $59.35 |
Raining and hailing all day. Luis, Andrew and Halsten each worked a full day. I painted a cutter and a wagon bed. $59.35 cash on hand. |
| Saturday, January 30, 1864 |
Mild + Cloudy Raining + Snowing all day L 1 day A 1 day H 1 day finiched Striping Catter on hand $56.23 |
It was mild and cloudy today, raining and snowing all day. Luis, Andrew, and Halsten worked all day. Finished stripping the cutter. $56.23 cash on hand. |
| Sunday, January 31, 1864 |
To day Ice all over on the top of the Snow + Skateable all over the Ground in the Evning Snowing + Drifting hard hard Snow Storm in the night |
Today the snow was covered with ice and the ground was skateable. This evening it was snowing and drifting hard. We had a snow storm overnight. |
| Monday, February 1, 1864 |
Monday went to Madison L on hand $125,90 |
I went to Madison today. Luis worked today. $125.90 cash on hand. |
| Tuesday, February 2, 1864 |
to Black Earth Knud Brusveen com to Black Earth in Madison Tueday to Forclosher sel of Land + Lots + K Bot it for $650. on hand $72,37 |
Knud Brusveen came to Black Earth. In Madison tending to foreclosure sale of land and lots. K. bought one for $650.00. Returned to Black Earth today. $72.37 cash on hand. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Wednesday, February 3, 1864 |
today Knud commenced to work + worked 1 Day L 1 day A 1 day H. 1 day all working on Bob Slaigh + long Sliegh on hand 73.44 |
Knud began working for me today. Knud, Luis, Andrew, and Halsten all worked a full day. We were all working on a bobsleigh and a long sleigh. $73.44 cash on hand. |
| Thursday, February 4, 1864 |
Snow thawing working on Sleighs L 1 day K. 1 day A 1 day H 1 day on hand $77.62 |
The snow was thawing today. Continued working on sleighs. Luis, Knud, Andrew, and Halsten all worked a full day. $77.62 cash on hand. |
| Friday, February 5, 1864 |
Windy + Thawing L 1 day Knud 1 day H 1 day A ½ day Recieved Land Money of Lydia Sherman on hand $381.06 |
It was windy today and the snow continues to that. Luis, Knud, and Halsten all worked a full day today, and Andrew worked a half day. Received money for land from Lydia Sherman. $381.06 cash on hand. |
| Saturday, February 6, 1864 |
Clear + Pleasint not Cold we have fenicht Goong Wight Bobb Slaiegs L.1.K.1. A 1. Halsten 1 day |
The weather was clear and pleasant today, and not cold. We have finished George Wright’s bobsleighs. Luis, Knud, Andrew, and Halsten all worked a full day today. |
| Sunday, February 7, 1864 |
Visited Lars Sylfestson an windy + Snowing |
We visited Lars Sylfestson today. It was windy and snowing. |
| Monday, February 8, 1864 |
Windy + Colder S 1 day Knud 1 day H ½ day |
It was windy and colder today. Luis, and Knud worked a full day today, and Halsten worked a half day. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday, February 9, 1864 |
growing Colder at hom L 1 day. K 1. H. ½ on hand 460.50 |
Weather growing still colder. I was at home today. Luis, and Knud worked a full day today, and Halsten worked a half day. |
| Wednesday, February 10, 1864 |
went to Madison received 40 Dollar of Knud Monson sted over night ther |
I went to Madison and received $40 from Knud Monson. I stayed overnight there. |
| Thursday, February 11, 1864 |
went to Milwaukee Wather Mild + windy |
I went to Milwaukee today. The weather was mild and windy. |
| Friday, February 12, 1864 |
left Milwaukee by R.R. at 10 ½ o clock + arived at Black Earth at 5 o clock on hand $154.19 |
I left Milwaukee by railroad at 10:30 and arrived in Black Earth at 5:00. $154.19 cash on hand. |
| Saturday, February 13, 1864 |
went to Sauck Prarey Mill for a Load of Wagon Stoff |
I went to Sauck Prairie Mill today for a load of wagon fabric [“stoff” is Norwegian for fabric or cloth]. |
| Sunday, February 14, 1864 |
Stayd at home all day Wather fine & Snow thawing off |
I stayed at home all day today. The weather was fine and the snow is thawing. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Monday, February 15, 1864 |
at home all day received Freight from Milwaukee 2800 of Iron + 4 Tons of Coal Wather turning Coal |
I was at home all day. I received freight from Milwaukee: 2,800 [pounds] of iron and 4 tons of coal. The weather is turning cold. |
| Tuesday, February 16, 1864 |
at home all day part in the Shops + part in the hous manding Shoes veary Coald Wather turning Cloudy |
I was at home all day today, working part of the day in the workshops and part of the day in the house mending shoes. It was very cold today, and the weather is turning cloudy. |
| Wednesday, February 17, 1864 |
At home all day verry Cold 18 degrees below zerow sent to Waterhouse the Monthelu return of December Last |
I was at home all day today. It was very cold—18° below zero. I sent Waterhouse the monthly return from last December. |
| Thursday, February 18, 1864 |
at house all day Wether Ceeps on pretty Cold At Halvorson an in Town to day |
I was at home all day. The weather continues to be pretty cold. I was at Halvorson’s place and in town today. |
| Friday, February 19, 1864 |
at home Painting over 10 tire Wagonyers Wather growing Mild |
At home painting over ten tires [Wagonyers]. Weather growing mild. |
| Saturday, February 20, 1864 |
went in a Cattar to Dodgeville an then way to Clobrange to viset me Sister Anne stad over in Dodgeville and |
I went in a cutter to Dodgeville on the way to Crow Branch [creek or mine?] to visit my sister Anne. I stayed over in Dodgeville and… |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Sunday, February 21, 1864 |
went fro Dodgeville an ther to Clobrangr + got theare about Dark, put up the horse at Mr. Daleg + Stad at my Sisters house over Night |
I went from Dodgeville to Crow Branch [creek or mine?] and got there as it was getting dark. I left the horse with Mr. Daleg and stayed at my sister’s house overnight. |
| Monday, February 22, 1864 |
stad over to my Sister at Clobrache |
I stayed over with my sister at Crow Branch [creek or mine?]. |
| Tuesday, February 23, 1864 |
went from Clobranch through Minneral Point + through Dodgeville + to Rugels + stoped ther over Night |
I went from Crow Branch [creek or mine?] through Mineral Point and through Dodgeville and then on to Ruggels [stage stop], where I stopped overnight. |
| Wednesday, February 24, 1864 |
went from Rugels after Bracfast + got to Black Earth at 12 o clock Knud arived at at 4 o clock |
I left Ruggels after breakfast and got to Black Earth at 12:00. Knud arrived at 4:00. |
| Thursday, February 25, 1864 |
home all day + Knud commencen to work again Wather fine + Snow melding off |
I was at home all day and Knud started to work again. The weather is fine and the snow is melting. |
| Friday, February 26, 1864 |
Sat Platows Wagon Teirs to day all Wouse |
I set Plato’s wagon tires today. all wouse. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday, February 27, 1864 |
home all dai wather mild Sneow malding away fast rec Letter from Knud Thompson |
I was at home all day today. The weather was mild and the snow is melting away fast. I received a letter from Knud Thompson. |
| Sunday, February 28, 1864 |
home all day Watter windy + Cold taken Likeness I + Knudt Brosveen |
I was at home all day today. The weather was windy and cold. Knudt Brosveen and I had our photograph taken. |
| Monday, February 29, 1864 |
hom all day after noon making Drag teeth in night going to Mazomanie for doctor Tools |
I was at home all day today. In the afternoon I made drag teeth, and at night I went to Mazomonie to get doctor’s tools. |
| Tuesday, March 1, 1864 |
Finiched up 275@ of Drag teeths delivered to Erecson 51 @ + Isaacson 75 @ received Letter from Arne Fjeld |
Finished up 275 drag teeth. Delivered 51 to Erikson and 75 to Isaacson. Received letter from Arne Fjeld. |
| Wednesday, March 2, 1864 |
Priming Woodworks of Wagons + whaffeltrees an working in the Shops |
Priming the wooden works of wagons and whiffletrees and working in the shops. |
| Thursday, March 3, 1864 |
home in the Shop finiching Finlayson Boggy for B. Shop making Staps on Platows Wagon Bott groseries of Lord for $2.20 |
At home, working in the shop, finishing Finlayson’s buggy for B. shop. Making steps on D. Plato’s wagon. Bought groceries from Lord for $2.20. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Friday, March 4, 1864 |
at hom all day working in the Shop Letter from Ole Halvorson |
At home all day, working in the shop. I received a letter from Ole Halvorsen. |
| Saturday, March 5, 1864 |
at home working in the Shops repr Catter for D D Carpenter |
At home working in the shops today, repairing a cutter for D. D. Carpenter. |
| Sunday, March 6, 1864 |
to Day Painting Wagon fo Plato + Boggy for Finlason + making a Plow Beams |
I painted a wagon today for D. Plato and a buggy for Finlayson. I also made plow beams. |
| Monday, March 7, 1864 |
at home Weather Plaesent + Dry |
At home today. The weather was pleasant and dry. |
| Tuesday, March 8, 1864 |
at home repr Waggons + Boggy Weather Pleasent dry |
At home today, repairing wagons and buggy. The weather was pleasant and dry. |
| Wednesday, March 9, 1864 |
Painting + Satting Boxes an Wheels Election in Black Earth to rais 800. Dollar to fill here Quota by Volunters of March Draft |
Painting and setting wagon boxes and wheels. An election was held in Black Earth today to raise $800 to fill Black Earth’s quota of volunteer soldiers for the March draft. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Thursday, March 10, 1864 |
at home working in the Shop at home in the Shop working all day Letter from Ole Halvoreson |
At home, working in the shop all day. I received a letter from Ole Halvorsen. |
| Friday, March 11, 1864 |
Working in Shop at home worked in the Shop repr Cutter for Carpenter |
I was at home today, working in the shop, repairing a cutter for D. D. Carpenter. |
| Saturday, March 12, 1864 |
Knud went home to day Painting Wagon for Plato [indecipherable] Making 2 Plow beams |
Knud went home today. I was painting the wagon for D. Plato. [indecipherable] I made two plow beams. |
| Sunday, March 13, 1864 |
at home all day Wather Pleasent + Dry |
I was at home all day today. The weather was pleasant and dry. |
| Monday, March 14, 1864 |
after Noon walding Tiers at the Shop Busy at Painting + repr Wagons + Boggys Wather Pleasent + Dry |
I welded tires in the afternoon, and was busy at the shop painting and repairing wagons and buggies. The weather was pleasant and dry today. |
| Tuesday, March 15, 1864 |
walding + Satting Tiers + salling Boxes |
Welding and setting tires today, and selling wagon boxes. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Wednesday, March 16, 1864 |
satting Boxes + got 12 Wheels to Paint Shop + making Box of Carpenters Wagon to go to Idahoe with |
Setting wagon boxes today. I got 12 wheels to the paint shop and was making the box for D. D. Carpenter’s wagon that he’s taking to Idaho. |
| Thursday, March 17, 1864 |
Mrs Walker Burial to day Funerrel Sermon of Mr. Tod at Congragation Church at the Shop making Box for Carpenter + Painting Wagon weather windy |
Mrs. Walker’s burial was today. Heard the sermon at the funeral of Mr. Tod in the Congregation Church. Worked in the shop making the box for D. D. Carpenter’s wagon, and painting [another] wagon. It was windy today. |
| Friday, March 18, 1864 |
very Coald wind Ironing Wagon Boxes + Painting Wheels |
Very cold wind today. Worked on putting the iron on the wagon boxes and painting wheels. |
| Saturday, March 19, 1864 |
working a Drag at Black Smith Shop painding at the Wagon Shop very Cold + windy |
I worked on a drag at the blacksmith shop and was also painting in the wagon shop. It was very cold and windy today. |
| Sunday, March 20, 1864 |
To Meeting up Vermont Church + Coald + windy in the Evning at Tamrance Lacture with Methodist Church |
We went to a meeting up in the Vermont, WI, church today. It was cold and windy in the evening. At the temperance lecture in the Methodist Church. |
| Monday, March 21, 1864 |
weather very Cold 3 digrees below Ziro Knud Commenced to work to day (2d time) Painting Wagons + selling one Wheel for 4.25 |
It was very cold today—3° below zero. Knud began working today (for second time) on painting the wagons and selling one wheel for $4.25. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday, March 22, 1864 |
Sister Anne weather growing Milder at the Shop Painting Wagons |
The weather is growing milder. Worked in the shop painting wagons. |
| Wednesday, March 23, 1864 |
received Letter from Sister Anne Weather Clear + growing still Milder at the Shop Painting Wagons |
I received a letter from my sister Anne today. The weather is clear and is growing still milder. Worked at the shop painting wagons. |
| Thursday, March 24, 1864 |
to day bought Isaacsons Candy Store on Stock weather Mild & Clear |
I bought Isaacson’s candy store on stock today. The weather is mild and clear. |
| Friday, March 25, 1864 |
to day the 1st day of Candy trade + sold for $9.14 cent Auction at Carp + Logen + Pack |
Today was my first day in the candy trade, and I sold $9.14 worth of goods. There was an auction at Carpenter, Logan, and Peck today. |
| Saturday, March 26, 1864 |
Streping Wagons weather Mild + godd Halson ¾ day |
Stripping wagons today. Halssen worked ¾ day. The weather is mild and good. |
| Sunday, March 27, 1864 |
at home all day went to Hetter with one haffer to Bull. Cow toak Bull |
I was at home all day today. I went to Mr. Hetter with a heifer to breed with his bull. The cow took the bull. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Monday, March 28, 1864 |
went to Mazomanea to see Mr. Houworth about the old Store after noon Streping Wagon Boxes |
I went to Mazomonie to see Mr. [Henry?] Howarth about the old store. In the afternoon I was stripping wagon boxes. |
| Tuesday, March 29, 1864 |
Setling up the Town account + finiched Strping 4 Wagons Weather wet + rainy + muddy |
I settled up the town account and finished stripping four wagons. The weather is wet, rainy and muddy. |
| Wednesday, March 30, 1864 |
putting Shafts in 3 Idaho Wagon Boxes Weather Cloudy |
Putting shafts in three Idaho wagon boxes. The weather was cloudy today. |
| Thursday, March 31, 1864 |
Working on Drags + drag Irons satting Drag teeth Weather Still Cloudy |
Working on drags and drag irons and setting drag teeth. The weather is still cloudy. |
| Friday, April 1, 1864 |
Speciel Election to day to rais Money for ald Soldiers to get them Creditted to our Town Cloudy |
There was a special election today to raise money for old soldiers to get them credited to our town. It was cloudy today. |
| Saturday, April 2, 1864 |
Feniching to day 2 Drags nomenation for Town officers Weather Cloudy + rain |
Finishing two drags today. Nominations today for the town officers. The weather is cloudy with rain. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Sunday, April 3, 1864 |
To Meeting up to Vermont John Fjelds Church weather Cloudy |
Went up to Vermont, WI, to a meeting in Rev. John Fjeld’s church. It was cloudy today. |
| Monday, April 4, 1864 |
Weather very wet Coald + Rainy all day 1 Proster [præster] John Fjeld home all day + working in Powers Shop |
Weather was very wet, cold, and rainy all day. A minister came to Rev. John Fjeld’s home and was there all day. I was working in Power’s shop. |
| Tuesday, April 5, 1864 |
Town Election to day Mr Haselton Charman Wabb & K Erickson Supervisor |
The town election was held today. Mr. Haseltine was chosen as chairman [mayor?], and Mr. Webb and K. Erickson as supervisors. |
| Wednesday, April 6, 1864 |
Warniching 3 Wagons worked Aloned in the Shop Prist Coniference with Fjeld |
Varnishing 3 wagons today. I worked alone in the shop. A priest conference [was held] with Rev. John Fjeld. |
| Thursday, April 7, 1864 |
working in the Shop after noon Halsen worked receaved Briagh for Candy Shop Cloudy + wete |
Worked in the shop in the afternoon. Halsten worked today. Received Briagh for candy shop. It was cloudy and wet today. |
| Friday, April 8, 1864 |
Cloudy + raney + windy worked in the Shop + traded at the Candy Shop |
It was cloudy, raining and windy today. I worked in the shop and traded at the candy shop. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday, April 9, 1864 |
sold one Wagon to John. W. Fancher for 87 Dollar 20 D Cash + a 65 note on few Months at 7 per cent weather Cloudy + rainy |
I sold one wagon to John W. Fancher for $87: $20 cash and a $65 note for a few months at 7% interest. It was cloudy and rainy today. |
| Sunday, April 10, 1864 |
at home all day weather Cleared off |
I was at home all day today. The weather cleared off. |
| Monday, April 11, 1864 |
Putting on Bowes on Idaho Wagons for Thom Logen + Carpenter Weather veeriable Cloudy + Showry + Sunshine |
Putting the bows on the Idaho wagons for Thom Logan, and D. D. Carpenter. The weather was variable today—cloudy, showering, and sunshine. |
| Tuesday, April 12, 1864 |
to day finiched Topping of 5 Wagons + I put one Axlander on Packs Wagon traded Wagons with Carpenter |
Today I finished topping off five wagons, and I put one axle under on Peck’s wagon. Traded wagons with D. D. Carpenter. |
| Wednesday, April 13, 1864 |
at home all day Commansing Wheels for Plato weather yet onsetled |
At home all day today. Began wheels for D. Plato. The weather is still unsettled. |
| Thursday, April 14, 1864 |
Snowing heavy to day at home in the Shop to work |
It was snowing heavily today. I was at home in the shop to work. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Friday, April 15, 1864 |
Salling Tiers + making Wheels for Plato |
Selling tires and making wheels for D. Plato. |
| Saturday, April 16, 1864 |
working + Wheels + Painting Wagon for Thom Logen |
Working on wheels and painting wagon for Thom Logan. |
| Sunday, April 17, 1864 |
at home all day |
At home all day today. |
| Monday, April 18, 1864 |
went op to Mrs McDonnel + bought a Cow for $22.ºº Dollars + paid $5.ºº Dollars on her |
I went up to Mrs. McDonnell and bought a cow for $22. I paid $5 towards the cow. |
| Tuesday, April 19, 1864 |
fixed Boggy Springs for D Plato |
Fixed buggy springs for D. Plato. |
| Wednesday, April 20, 1864 |
also working at a Bogg Spring for Plato |
Still working on a buggy spring for D. Plato. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Thursday, April 21, 1864 |
Ironing off Wagon Boxes + I Bought a House of Houworth + Mrs Soet |
Ironing off wagon boxes. I bought a house from [Henry?] Howarth + Mrs. Loedt |
| Friday, April 22, 1864 |
the Soldiers of the 11 Wis Regt went to the Seat of War again after 30 days fourlogh sold + contracted off 2 Wagon |
The soldiers of the 11th Wisconsin Volunteer Regiment went back to the frontlines of the war again after 30 days of furlough. I sold and contracted off 2 wagons. |
| Saturday, April 23, 1864 |
to day Streping Wagons |
I was stripping wagons today. |
| Sunday, April 24, 1864 |
home all day D. Plato hath a big fite with Thom Haney |
At home all day. D. Plato had a big fight with Thom Haney today. |
| Monday, April 25, 1864 |
Striping Wagon Boxes |
Stripping wagon boxes today. |
| Tuesday, April 26, 1864 |
satting Skins on Platos Wagon & Makings Wagon box Bottoms |
Setting skeins on D. Plato’s wagon, and making the bottoms of wagon boxes. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Wednesday, April 27, 1864 |
at home working in the Shop Cold wind Nels pae Drag start stad over honite |
At home working in the shop. There was a cold wind today. Nels paid for the drag start. Stayed over [in the shop?] tonight. |
| Thursday, April 28, 1864 |
at home all day |
At home all day today. |
| Friday, April 29, 1864 |
putting runers under a House |
Putting runners under a house. |
| Saturday, April 30, 1864 |
went to Madison to borrow a Kable Chane to move a House with + Bot a bill of Paint |
Went to Madison to borrow a cable chain for moving a house. Also bought a bill of paint. |
| Sunday, May 1, 1864 |
to Meating at the Sckool hous in Vermont |
Went to a meeting at the schoolhouse in Vermont, WI. |
| Monday, May 2, 1864 |
Closing up my Candy Shop + Boxed up the goods |
Closing up my candy shop and boxed up the goods. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday, May 3, 1864 |
gathered 20 yoke of Cattle to move Houses moved one 2 rods + got stuck half way with the other |
I gathered 20 yoke of cattle to move houses. I moved one house two rods [33 feet] and I got stuck halfway with the other house. |
| Wednesday, May 4, 1864 |
working in Shop + went out in the grove + Brought out 20 Plumtrees to plant in garden |
Working in the shop today. I went out in the grove and brought out 20 plum trees to plant in our garden. |
| Thursday, May 5, 1864 |
attended Meeting at Vermont Church + went to R. Bell for Spruce + pine Trees |
I attended a meeting at the church in Vermont, WI. I also went to Robert Bell to get spruce and pine trees. |
| Friday, May 6, 1864 |
got the Seller Dugged priming Wheels + recd my Frieght from Milwaukee |
Got the cellar excavated today. Priming wheels and received my freight from Milwaukee. |
| Saturday, May 7, 1864 |
heavy rain last knight + raining all day |
Heavy rain last night and raining all day today. |
| Sunday, May 8, 1864 |
at home all day weather Cleared up after noon to day |
At home all day. The weather cleared up in the afternoon today. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Monday, May 9, 1864 |
Moving Luises House to day with 20 yoke of Cattle + 25 or 30 mane |
Moving Luis’ house today with 20 yoke of cattle and 25 or 30 men. |
| Tuesday, May 10, 1864 |
Bilding Pig penn + commenc fensing the lots Comm Building Store Saller |
Building a pigpen and began fencing the lots today. Began building the store cellar. |
| Wednesday, May 11, 1864 |
heavy frost last night finsing all day arond Lot 5 & 8 |
There was a heavy frost last night. I was fencing all day around Lots 5 and 8. |
| Thursday, May 12, 1864 |
Taring down the old Stable to day Moving Stables + fencing a Cow yard |
Tearing down the old stable today and moving stables. Also fencing in a cow pasture. |
| Friday, May 13, 1864 |
Working on the Lots + round the House |
Working on the lots today and around the house. |
| Saturday, May 14, 1864 |
Brought home a Cow Messr McDonnell + paid for here $2250 |
I brought a cow home from Mr. McDonnell. I paid $22.50 for her. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Sunday, May 15, 1864 |
Confermation in Rev John Fjelds Church |
Confirmation today in Rev. John Fjeld’s church. |
| Monday, May 16, 1864 |
Shop Meting in Vermonts Church + gathered the Promiss of Oxen of 20 yoke |
In a meeting in the Vermont, WI, church. I gathered the promise of 20 yoke of oxen. |
| Tuesday, May 17, 1864 |
to day the 20 yoke of Oxen com + with them hauled my Store down Town |
Today the 20 yoke of oxen came, and with them I hauled my store downtown. |
| Wednesday, May 18, 1864 |
heard that Arneson Wilson was dead + died at O.W. Williams Hotel at Chicago Iill Kinzie Street 59.& 61 Baking the Lot |
I heard today that Arneson Wilson had died at O.W. Williams’ hotel in Chicago (59–61 Kinzie Street). Baking the lot. |
| Thursday, May 19, 1864 |
tiered out of hard work + not doing much |
I’m tired due to hard work, and I’m not doing much today. |
| Friday, May 20, 1864 |
One garden with Corn + Potatoes I worked in the Shop |
Planted the garden with corn and potatoes. I worked in the shop. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday, May 21, 1864 |
Commencing roling the Store on to Seller weather hot |
Began rolling the store onto the cellar. It was hot today. |
| Sunday, May 22, 1864 |
at home + over to Andrew Lee for dinner |
At home today, and then over to Andrew Lee’s house for dinner. |
| Monday, May 23, 1864 |
Moving the Store on to the Saller |
Moving the store onto the cellar |
| Tuesday, May 24, 1864 |
working in + around the Shop weather growing Colder |
Working in and around the shop today. The weather is growing colder. |
| Wednesday, May 25, 1864 |
Levling up the Store + after that worked in the Shop |
I leveled up the store and after that I worked in the shop. |
| Thursday, May 26, 1864 |
Making Wheels + Salling Tiers |
Making wheels and selling tires |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Friday, May 27, 1864 |
Making Wheels + Salling Tiers |
Making wheels and selling tires |
| Saturday, May 28, 1864 |
Satting 18 Tiers + reparing Wheels |
Setting 18 tires and repairing wheels |
| Sunday, May 29, 1864 |
at home in the Evning going to Madison Wheather hot |
At home today. In the evening I’m going to Madison. It’s hot today. |
| Monday, May 30, 1864 |
in the Morning come in my Cake from Madison got to fellows to dig a well at the Shop + to Carpenter A Lee + J Padrson to move a house from Lot 5 on to Lot 4 to join my old House |
In the morning my coke came from Madison. I got two fellows to dig a well at the shop. I got Mr. Carpenter, A. Lee, and J. Peterson to move a house from Lot 5 onto Lot 4 to join my old house. |
| Tuesday, May 31, 1864 |
Levling up the House moved yesterday + commencing moving up the addission to the Store |
Leveling up the house that I moved yesterday, and began moving the addition to the store. |
| Wednesday, June 1, 1864 |
to day got the addss sion up + conniched it to the Store + satting Tiers |
today got the addition up and connected it to the store and setting tires |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Thursday, June 2, 1864 |
recieved the Front shash door for the Store + Presnece them over + after noon sat 12 Tiers. Letter to Knud Brasven $183.65 |
Received the front sash door for the store today and presnece them over. In the afternoon I set 12 tires. Wrote a letter to Knud Brasven. $183.65 cash on hand. |
| Friday, June 3, 1864 |
Salling Boxes + Salling Tiers satten 4 sats of Tiers after noon putting the Frunt on the Store |
Selling boxes and selling tires. Set four sets of tires. This afternoon I’m putting the front on the store. |
| Saturday, June 4, 1864 |
Painting the Front of the Store salling 4 Boggy Tiers Ole Engenorg Marit Engen com to our Hous |
Painting the front of the store and selling four buggy tires. Ole Engenorg and Marit Engen came to our house. |
| Sunday, June 5, 1864 |
Ole + Marit Engen went hom to day we was over to A Lees Hous for Dinner |
Ole and Marit Engen went home today. We went over to Andrew Lee’s house for dinner. |
| Monday, June 6, 1864 |
Cold wind in the Morning working in the Shop satting 7 Tiers weather Cold & Dry —————– |
There was a cold wind in the morning. Working in the shop today, setting seven tires. The weather is cold and dry. |
| Tuesday, June 7, 1864 |
weather sill dry + Cold nights to day all the Norwegain Ministers Come to Black Earth to Meet at Brodal for the purpos of forming a Senate |
The weather is still dry and cold. Today all the Norwegian ministers are coming to Black Earth to meet at Brodal for the purpose of forming a senate. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Wednesday, June 8, 1864 |
reaming 2 wheels weather hot + Sultry |
Reaming two wheels today. The weather is hot and sultry. |
| Thursday, June 9, 1864 |
weather dry + Farmers ar afraid of Crop Drying up satting 7 Tiers + repr wheels |
The weather is dry and the farmers are afraid of their crops drying up. Setting seven tires and repairing wheels. |
| Friday, June 10, 1864 |
reamming 2 wheels one Spok + satting 5 Tiers weather still dry but Colder |
Reaming two wheels and one spoke, and setting five tires. The weather is still dry but is getting colder. |
| Saturday, June 11, 1864 |
reaming Buggy wheels + satting 7 Tiers weather Still Dry + hot satting on one new Skine on a Wagon |
Reaming buggy wheels and setting seven tires. The weather is still dry and hot. Setting on one new skein on a wagon. |
| Sunday, June 12, 1864 |
Tainded Meeting at Vermont Church Communion tow Ducth Childran war Baptised in our Church to day – |
Attended a meeting in Vermont, WI. At our church communion, two Dutch children were baptized in our church today. |
| Monday, June 13, 1864 |
satting 4 Tiers + commencing Painting on a new Wagon fixing a Sawmill Carvig hook putting lights in the Store |
Setting four tires and beginning the painting of a new wagon. Fixing a sawmill. Carving a hook. Putting lights in the store. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday, June 14, 1864 |
taken to Paint Shop Platos Wagon mixed Paint + painting part of one Wagon weather Still Dry & growing warmer |
Took D. Plato’s wagon to the paint shop. I mixed paint and painted part of one wagon. The weather is still dry and is growing warmer. |
| Wednesday, June 15, 1864 |
Painting Wagon over befor Brakfast making in 6 fiths + satting 10 Tiers 90 degr warm + Dry no rain |
I finished painting the wagon before breakfast, [making in 6 fifths] and setting 10 tires. 90° today; warm and dry and no rain. |
| Thursday, June 16, 1864 |
Striping a Wagon Black Smith worked an rep + new Work |
Stripping a wagon. Blacksmith worked on repairs and new work. |
| Friday, June 17, 1864 |
Letter to A Henry + C 60 Dollars walding Spring + Axel for Plato Varniching Wagon 90 Degrees warm + no rain |
I wrote a letter to A. Henry, and C paid me $60. Welded a spring and axle for Plato. Varnished the wagon. It was warm today—90°—with no rain. |
| Saturday, June 18, 1864 |
salling our one hors Wagon for 70 Dollars satting 12 Tiers after noon + wheel repr 96 degrees hot in shade |
Selling our one-horse wagon for $70. Setting 12 tires in the afternoon and repairing a wheel. 96° today in the shade. |
| Sunday, June 19, 1864 |
Terrible wind + Dust flying like Clouds but a few drops of rain at home all day hot Weather |
Terrible wind and the dust is flying like clouds, but only a few drops of rain. At home all day. The weather is still hot. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Monday, June 20, 1864 |
to day little Clouds a flying but no rain satting 4 Tiers + painted Wagon over Commenced painting Fence. 97 degrees hot in shade |
Today little clouds were flying but no rain. Setting four tires and painted wagon over. Began painting fence. 97° in shade. |
| Tuesday, June 21, 1864 |
Striping Wagon hauling 8 tons of Coal from the Cars, weather still hot + dry not much show for rain in shade 94 degrees |
Stripping wagon today, and hauling eight tons of coal from the railroad cars. The weather is still hot and dry; not much hope for rain. 94° in the shade. |
| Wednesday, June 22, 1864 |
reparing Wheels + salling 4 Tiers weather dry + hot 100 degrees in paint shop in Shade |
Repairing wheels and selling four tires. The weather is dry and hot today—100° in the paint shop in the shade. |
| Thursday, June 23, 1864 |
warnishing Wagon for Handbrege Painting Wagon for D. Plato satting 4 Skines |
Varnishing wagon for Handbrege, painting a wagon for D. Plato, setting four skeins. |
| Friday, June 24, 1864 |
satting 4 Skines filled one Wheel + satting 16 Tiers weather hot + still dry no sign for rain |
Setting four skeins, filled one wheel, and setting 16 tires. The weather is hot and still dry and there’s no sign of rain. |
| Saturday, June 25, 1864 |
Painting Platows Wagon over on Coat Taken Potraits of our 4 girls in one Case |
Painting Plato’s wagon over one coat. Took portraits of our four girls and had them mounted in one case. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Sunday, June 26, 1864 |
at home all day weather warm + Windy in the Evining Clouds raises in the North East + rain is antisipated + aire Smoky as te was fire some way North East |
At home all day. The weather was warm and windy in the evening. Clouds were forming in the northeast. Rain is anticipated and the air is smoky as there was a fire somewhere to the northeast. |
| Monday, June 27, 1864 |
filling 2 Wheels for Ole Böle + satting 3 Tiers for Amann flaten + fixing up Black Smith fire place |
Filling two wheels for Ole Böle and setting three tires. |
| Tuesday, June 28, 1864 |
making Sandbord Righ + today it commenced raining little fixing B. Smith Fire place Striping Platows Wagon weather Cloudy + some rain |
Making a sandboard [righ]. Today it began raining a little. Fixing the blacksmith’s fireplace. Finished stripping D. Plato’s wagon. The weather was cloudy with some rain. |
| Wednesday, June 29, 1864 |
getting a Sore hand rained little but dryd off again working on differnt things in the Shop Thermometer 97 degrees Shade |
Getting a sore hand. It rained a little but dried off again. Working on different things int he shop. The thermometer reads 97° in the shade. |
| Thursday, June 30, 1864 |
rained little last Night + again this Morning Cleared of + Warniching Currige Wagon hot + Suttry hiere man commance to work after noon |
It rained a little last night and again this morning and then cleared off. Varnishing a carriage wagon. Hot and sultry today. The hired man began to work in the afternoon. |
| Friday, July 1, 1864 |
rained good last night + keeps on throug till Noon put new rain on old B/ Wheels + repairing other wheels |
It rained good last night, and it kept raining until noon. I put new iron on old buggy wheels and repaired other wheels. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday, July 2, 1864 |
went to Sauck Prairy Mill to get Wagon Axes for Chasley + my self weather Clear + Cool my Black Smith + Casper sat 17 Tiers |
I went to Sauck Prairie Mill to get wagon axles for Charley and myself. The weather is clear and cool. My blacksmith and Casper set 17 tires. |
| Sunday, July 3, 1864 |
Staed over at Sauck Prare Mill last night went from there 4 oclock in the Morning + got home at noon weather Clear & Cool nights |
Stayed over at Sauck Prairie Mill last night. Left there at 4:00 in the morning and got home at noon. The weather is clear with cool nights. |
| Monday, July 4, 1864 |
sore hand No Calebration in Black Earth. went to Crossplain with A Lee + A Windre + wifes come bak 5 oclock sold one of the Wagon to Plato $125. |
Sore hand today. No July 4th celebration in Black Earth. Went to Cross Plains with Andrew Lee and A Windre and their wives, and came back at 5:00. I sold one of the wagons to Plato for $125. |
| Tuesday, July 5, 1864 |
got a sore hand cant do much rained good to day |
I’ve got a sore hand and can’t do much. It rained good today. |
| Wednesday, July 6, 1864 |
rained little last night. hot + sultry this Morning I Cut my hand open this Morning + feel better now I hav put on Draing Plaster |
It rained a little last night and was hot and sultry this morning. I cut my hand open this morning and I feel better now. I put on a draining plaster. |
| Thursday, July 7, 1864 |
rained goal last Entered some act + right Painting Wagons Ironing Wagon Boxes & Clear again this Evning |
It rained good last night. I [entered some act + right]. Painting wagons and putting iron on wagon boxes. It was clear again this evening. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Friday, July 8, 1864 |
weather Clear + pleasent been Painting Wagons all day satting Skines |
The weather is clear and pleasant. I’ve been painting wagons all day and setting skeins. |
| Saturday, July 9, 1864 |
I Striped 2 Wagons Box + all alone weather warm + Cloudy + rainy |
I stripped two wagon boxes and all by myself. The weather is warm, cloudy, and rainy. |
| Sunday, July 10, 1864 |
at Meeting in John Fjelds S So + wife |
At a meeting in Rev. John Fjeld’s church. [S So] and wife. |
| Monday, July 11, 1864 |
Varniching over 2 Wagons hiere man working on wheels Maret Orsstallen stoled one Dollar out of my Book + we reetook it again |
Varnishing over two wagons. The hired man is working on wheels. Maret Orsstallen stole a dollar out of my book and we took it back. |
| Tuesday, July 12, 1864 |
made hinches + hanged my gate hier man working on Wheels + Black Smith Ironing Wagons |
I made hinges and hung my gate. The hired man is working on wheels and the blacksmith is ironing wagons. |
| Wednesday, July 13, 1864 |
satting op 2 Wagon weather Dry & hot |
Setting up two wagons. The weather today is dry and hot. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Thursday, July 14, 1864 |
repairing the Hay Baron weather hot 90 degrees |
Repairing the Hay Baron today. The weather is hot: 90°. |
| Friday, July 15, 1864 |
hier man satting Skines + Boxes I doing not much sold one Wagon till Peter Pantoon for $85. weather Dry & 94 degrees |
Hired man is setting skeins and boxes. I’m not doing much. I sold one wagon to Peter Pantoon for $85. The weather is dry and 94°. |
| Saturday, July 16, 1864 |
Jobbing at defferet things weather hot and upressive |
Jobbing at different things. The weather is hot and oppressive. |
| Sunday, July 17, 1864 |
rained all last night + thundering + raining this Morning stad at home all day weather very hot |
It rained all last night and was thundering and raining this morning. I stayed at home all day. The weather is very hot. |
| Monday, July 18, 1864 |
satten Boxes + doing sunderies of repairing salling 2 Tier Nels Odenssen arived to Black Earth from Norway + stops with me |
Setting boxes and doing sundry repairs. Selling two tires. Nels Odenssen arrived in Black Earth from Norway, WI, and stops at my house. |
| Tuesday, July 19, 1864 |
Making Vadges + salty Boxes weather very hot 88 degrees writing Letter to Knud Monson Gerorgia |
Making vadges and salty boxes. The weather is very hot—88°. Writing letter to Knud Monson in Georgia. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Wednesday, July 20, 1864 |
satting Boxes + doing other jobs weather Cooler |
Setting wagon boxes and doing other jobs. The weather is cooler. |
| Thursday, July 21, 1864 |
repairing Brakes for Sommensed + Fetters + putting Platform on the Shop wall |
Repaired brakes for Sommensed and Fetters today, and mounted the platform on the shop wall. |
| Friday, July 22, 1864 |
satting 12 new Tiers + other repairs done |
Setting 12 new tires and did other repairs. |
| Saturday, July 23, 1864 |
went to Sauck City for 100 Axeltrees + Brought them in 2 loads I had Platos Team + Mr Chasleys Team + I |
Went to Sauck City for 100 axle trees. I brought them back in two loads. I had D. Plato’s team, Mr. Chasley’s team, and myself. |
| Sunday, July 24, 1864 |
staed at home all day weather warm + heavy looks like rain |
Stayed at home all day. The weather is warm and heavy and it looks like rain. |
| Monday, July 25, 1864 |
Satting Skines + wadging in Boxes weather Dry + 91 degrees hot |
Setting skeins and wedging in boxes. The weather is dry and hot—91°. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday, July 26, 1864 |
satting Skines + Thumble Riws satting in Sckool ½ day weather 95 degree |
Setting skeins and [thumble riws]. Sitting in school for a half day. It was 95° today. |
| Wednesday, July 27, 1864 |
fitting up Spoks + driving Spokes weather 93 degree |
Fitting up spokes and driving spokes. It was 93° today. |
| Thursday, July 28, 1864 |
Making reaming two Wheels + making a Reale Axle for Reaper weather 96 degrees |
Making and reaming two wheels and making a real axle for a reaper. It was 96° today. |
| Friday, July 29, 1864 |
Reaming 2 Wheels + driving Spokes into one weather dry + 98 degrees hot |
Reaming two wheels and driving spokes into one other. It was dry and hot today—98°. |
| Saturday, July 30, 1864 |
Driving Spokes + reaming one Wheel weather dry + 98 degrees |
Driving spokes and reaming a wheel. The weather is dry and 98°. |
| Sunday, July 31, 1864 |
home all day weather warm with thunder Showers |
At home all day today. The weather was warm with thundershowers. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Monday, August 1, 1864 |
Reamed 3 wheels weather Cloudy + not quit as warm as befor |
Reamed three wheels. The weather is cloudy and not quite as warm as before. |
| Tuesday, August 2, 1864 |
Primed over 8 wheels weather |
I primed over eight wheels. The weather is 85°. |
| Wednesday, August 3, 1864 |
driving Spokes fixing Reaper fro Thom Park reenid good a havy Shower |
Driving spokes and fixing reaper for Thomas K. Park. Rained good; a heavy shower. |
| Thursday, August 4, 1864 |
Apointed by A Lincoln Prasidant of U.S. of A this day to fasting + Prayers + humiliation of the Nation I went to John Fjelds Church |
Appointed by Abraham Lincoln, President of the USA, this day to fasting and prayers and humiliation of the Nation. I went to Rev. John Fjeld’s church. |
| Friday, August 5, 1864 |
Cut in Boxes in 6 wheels + driving Spokes in 2 wheels |
Cut in wagon boxes and six wheels and driving spokes in two wheels. |
| Saturday, August 6, 1864 |
making Wagon Box + Seat |
Making wagon box and seat. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Sunday, August 7, 1864 |
at Meeting in John Fjelds Church |
At meeting in Vermont, WI, in Rev. John Fjeld’s church. |
| Monday, August 8, 1864 |
went to Mazomani afor one Tier Commenced noon + walded 8 Tiers |
Went to Mazomonie for one tire. Began welding tires in the afternoon and welded eight tires. |
| Tuesday, August 9, 1864 |
Ironing Wagon Box + fitted skins weather hot 96 degree |
Ironed a wagon box and fitted skeins. It was hot today—96°. |
| Wednesday, August 10, 1864 |
Painted a Wagon over one Coat weather hot 96 degrees went to Jensville at night |
Painted a coat over a wagon. It was hot today—96°. Went to Jensville at night. |
| Thursday, August 11, 1864 |
stad a Jensville last Nightet Started for Madison at 2 + arived at 4 vent op to Madison |
Stayed at Jensville last night. Started for Madison at 2:00 and arrived at 4:00. Went up to Madison. |
| Friday, August 12, 1864 |
stad over ther Last night + got home Moring Train 6 oclock Painted Wagon Box + made Wagon tongai |
Stayed over in Madison last night and came home on the morning train at 6:00. Painted wagon box and made a wagon tongue. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday, August 13, 1864 |
Streping Wagon mad up My Mind to go sout |
Stripping wagon today. Made up my mind to go South to the War. |
| Sunday, August 14, 1864 |
at home all day |
At home all day today. |
| Monday, August 15, 1864 |
taking Inventory of Stock + setling up acounts |
Taking inventory of stock and settling up accounts. |
| Tuesday, August 16, 1864 |
at Noon started for Chikago & St. . Luis |
At noon I started for Chicago and St. Louis. |
| Wednesday, August 17, 1864 |
Arived at St. Louis at 10 oclock + swore in for 6 months servis in the Quarter master department at said place |
I arrived in St. Louis at 10:00 and swore in for six months’ service in the Quartermaster department at said place. |
| Thursday, August 18, 1864 |
Slept on bord on dak the Victorys last night started from St. Louis for Nashvill at 5.30 a.m. sliding along down the River fine |
Slept on deck aboard the “Victorys” last night. Started from St. Louis to Nashville at 5:30 a.m., sliding smoothly down the Mississippi river. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Friday, August 19, 1864 |
laid over last night started again this Morning + slid lizzely along the River at 3 P.m. got stuck on Sandbar did not get of to night the weather thick + havy with little rain |
Laid over last night, and started again this morning, and slid lazily along the river. At 3:00 p.m. we got stuck on a sandbar. We did not get off the sandbar tonight. The weather is thick and heavy with little rain. |
| Saturday, August 20, 1864 |
we lyes on the same Sandbar this Morning the krew worked all last night + this for noon. not off yet at 2 P.M. we got off the Sandbar 20 minuts after 6 oclock with Cries of hurra |
We’re stuck on the same sandbar this morning. The crew worked all last night and this forenoon. As of 2:00 p.m., we’re not off yet. We got of the sandbar at 6:20 p.m. with cries of “hurrah!” |
| Sunday, August 21, 1864 |
laid over last night + wooded this morning arived at Cairo 8 oclock a.m. Cairo is a smart Mirdy Place as we started about 9 oClock a.m. we saw broken guns + Iron Plates + a floting Battery on the Ohio River at said place as we passed Mound City there was gun Bots No |
Laid over last night and [wooded.] This morning arrived at Cairo, IL, at 8:00 a.m. Cairo is a smart, muddy place. As we started about 9:00 a.m., we saw brocken guns and iron plates and a floating battery on the Ohio River at said place. As we passed Mound City, there were gunboats Nos. 51 and 59 and many more steamboats. |
| Monday, August 22, 1864 |
got into Tennesee River last Night at 11 p.M. Ankered over + started again this Morning at 5½ a.m. slid slowly up the River passed manny Gunboats + passed Fort Hanry at 8 oclock last night + Ankered over abov Fort Hanry |
Got onto the Tennessee River last night at 11:00 p.m. We anchored overnight and started again this morning at 5:30 a.m. We slid slowly up the River, passing many gunboats and we passed Fort Henry at 8:00 last night and anchored over above Fort Henry. |
| Tuesday, August 23, 1864 |
started again this Morning + passed the ruins of the Memphis + Louisville R.R. Brige at 5½ p.m. 10 miles from destination on Tenn. River passing 4 Boats The Mucury Duke. Charly Miller + Gipsey. arived at 10 oclock at Johnsonville. that is a stinky windy Place |
Started again this morning and passed the ruins of the Memphis & Louisville Railroad bridge at 5:30 p.m. Ten miles from our destination on the Tennessee River we passed four boats: the Mercury, the Duke, the Charley Miller, and the Gypsy. We arrived at Johnsonville; it’s a stinky, windy place. |
| Wednesday, August 24, 1864 |
Johnsonville is 3 Months old + over 3000 Work man of different work all Goverment Busines started from Johnsonville at 3½ p.m. + arived at Nashville at 11 p.m. lying on the Depot Flor at |
Johnsonville is three months old and there are over 3000 workmen of different trades all working on government business. We started from Johnsonville at 3:30 p.m. and arrived in Nashville, TN, at 11:00 p.m. I’m now lying on the depot floor in Nashville. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Thursday, August 25, 1864 |
at Nashville last night got our Dinner at head quarter Mass room + sent to the Frankline Shops there we was called + put on record had our Supper + was sent to quarters near to the magasine |
Arrived in Nashville last night. We got our dinner at headquarters mess room and we were sent to the Franklin Shops area. There we were called and put on record. We had our supper and were sent to quarters near the magazine. |
| Friday, August 26, 1864 |
head our Brakfast + was called + we went [lafing] op Town doing nothing all day after noon Letter home |
We had our breakfast and were called. We went [lafing] up town. Doing nothing all day. In the afternoon, I wrote a letter home. |
| Saturday, August 27, 1864 |
fornoon went to work at Franklin Shops at Bonding Tiers after noon went to the River Called Cumberland to bath in Co. with Lars Sylaester & Knud Knudson Sorflaten at 5 oclock Mustered in front of the Shops |
This forenoon I went to work at the Franklin Shops bonding tires. In the afternoon I went to the Cumberland River to bathe in the company of Lars Sylaester and Knud Knudson Sorflaten. At 5:00 p.m. we mustered in front of the shops. |
| Sunday, August 28, 1864 |
went op to Post Office + down again to get our dinner went up to the Fort after noon + Staing around the Shops |
We went up to the Post Office and down again to get our dinner. We went up to the Fort in the afternoon and stayed around the shops. |
| Monday, August 29, 1864 |
got to work at Fire No 8 to day worked heard all day |
We got to work at Fire No. 8 today. I worked hard all day. |
| Tuesday, August 30, 1864 |
Commenced fixing op a new Forge or Fire place in the new Shop worked at that all day till 4½ oclock p.M. then drilled till 600 |
I began fixing up a new forge or fireplace in the new shop. I worked at that all day until 4:30 p.m. and then we drilled until 6:00 p.m. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Wednesday, August 31, 1864 |
again working on the Forge got 10 anvil + Bellow. Cavelrere + Infantery going out of Town to meat the Rebels after 4 oclock we Drilled we we feared an atackt by Rable Gen Wheeler |
We’re again working on the forge. We’ve got ten anvils and a bellows made. The calvary and infantry are going out of town to meet the rebels. After 4:00 p.m. we drilled. We feared an attack by the rebel General Wheeler. |
| Thursday, September 1, 1864 |
hangd the bellowses got ready to work made three pair of Tongs two ponches + one hardy. drilled again from 4 till 7 |
We hung the bellows and got ready to work. I made three pairs of tongs, two punches and one hardy. We drilled again from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. |
| Friday, September 2, 1864 |
Commencing to make Chainhook today Drilled again |
Began making chain hooks today. Drilled again. |
| Saturday, September 3, 1864 |
Making Chainhooks + some more Tools |
Making chain hooks and some more tools. |
| Sunday, September 4, 1864 |
writing Letter home John Peterson come over to our shops + went over to Town + home for Supper |
Writing a letter home. John Peterson came over to our shops. We went over to town and then home for supper. |
| Monday, September 5, 1864 |
making Punches one Cold chissle one pair of Tongs + making some more hooks |
Making punches, one cold chisel, one pair of tongs, and making some more hooks. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday, September 6, 1864 |
making more Tools + making more hooks |
Making more tools and making more hooks. |
| Wednesday, September 7, 1864 |
this Morning we was put off on the night List + have to work nights after this day only from 7 till 10. |
This morning we were put on the night list and we have to work nights henceforth, but only from 7:00 until 10:00 p.m. |
| Thursday, September 8, 1864 |
took Sick last night of Diery + head ache laying in the Tant + Stragling rough not able to do anything |
I got sick last night of diarrhea and headache. I am lying in the tent and struggling. It’s rough not being able to do anything. |
| Friday, September 9, 1864 |
got Letter from hoome to day sick of the Dierey got some Medesine of the Doctor in after noon got little better + worked my 3 hours from 7 till 10 |
I received a letter from home today. I’m sick of the diarrhea and got some medicine from the doctor in the afternoon. I got a little better and worked my three hours from 7:00 until 10:00 p.m. |
| Saturday, September 10, 1864 |
this Morning feel a little better getting wors again was put on the sick List went up Town + hardly able to Diery Stopped + took 3 pills to get passage again |
This morning I feel a little better, but I’m getting worse again. I was put on the sick list. I went up toen and was hardly able to walk back. Diarrhea stopped and I took three pills to get passage again. |
| Sunday, September 11, 1864 |
Diery this Morning had a good bath at the new bath house got some soup for Dinner got wors of that + Diery again |
Diarrhea this morning. I had a good bath at the new bathhouse. I got some soup for dinner, but got worse as a result and now have diarrhea again. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Monday, September 12, 1864 |
this Morning went with A Anderson to a Doctor so called the Indian Docta got Medesin of him for $5.00 |
This morning I went with A. Anderson to a doctor who is called the “Indian Docta.” I got medicine from him for $5.00. |
| Tuesday, September 13, 1864 |
feel a little better went up Town + baught some Crakers + in the Evning went to work after 7 till 10 oclock got sick again |
I feel a little better. I went up town and bought some crackers and in the evening I went to work after 7:00 until 10:00 and got sick again. |
| Wednesday, September 14, 1864 |
this Morning bought some Milk + made som Tee + we Drank Tee Milk + eat Crackers + Bread got Orders to go to Atlanta |
This morning I bought some milk and made some tea. We drank tea milk and ate crackers and bread. We got orders to go to Atlanta. |
| Thursday, September 15, 1864 |
Nashville Started from Franklin Shops for Atlanta at 3 ocl went up to Urwins Office + dow again to Chattanooga Depot Train not ready + we made Supper + went to Sleep on the Depo platform |
In Nashville. We started from the Franklin Shops area at 3:00 p.m., headed for Atlanta. We went up to Erwin’s office and down again to the Chattanooga depot. The train wasn’t ready so we made supper and went to sleep on the depot platform. |
| Friday, September 16, 1864 |
2 oclock ths a.m. we climed up on the top of a Fraight Train + Started that way night very Cold we was shiviring of the Cold. arived at Murfreesborro at sun rais |
At 2:00 a.m. we climbed up on top of a freight train and started towards Atlanta. The night was very cold; we were shivering because it was so cold. We arrived at Murfreesboro at sunrise. |
| Saturday, September 17, 1864 |
arived at Chatanooga last Night made Fire on the ground made Caffe this Morning for Brakfast started for Atlanta at 6½ o clock arived at Alton + Stopped |
We arrived at Chattanooga last night and made a fire on the ground. Made coffee this morning for breakfast. Started again for Atlanta at 6:30 on top of the freight cars. Arrived at Alton and stopped. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Sunday, September 18, 1864 |
Started again the same way as befor on hard Tack + Sour belly on the Top of the Cars shaking our sick guts most out in addission to this it Rained more or less all day. arived at Atlanta at Dark & walked up Town to Sleep in a diserted Store I was quit sick |
Started again today the same way as before on hard tack and sour belly. We rode on top of the freight cars, shaking our sick guts out. In addition to this, it rained more or less all day. Arrived in Atlanta at dark and walked up town to sleep in a deserted store. I was quite sick. |
| Monday, September 19, 1864 |
Sleped on th Floor + it was to us a good bed feel little better this Morning but cant Eat + cant work |
We slept on the floor and it was to us a good bed. I feel a little better this morning, but can’t eat and can’t work. |
| Tuesday, September 20, 1864 |
Stayd in the same hous last night Orders was given to pik up our things + moove down to the Shops + we mooved + got in to a good hous near the Shops |
Stayed in the same house last night. Orders were given to pick up our things and move down to the shops. We moved and got into a good house near the shops. |
| Wednesday, September 21, 1864 |
this Morning I found out where Knud Thompson was I started out + found him in Camp about one Mile from the Shops Spant most of the after noon with him |
This morning I found out where Knud Thompson was. I started out and found him in camp about a mile from the shops. I spent most of the afternoon with him. |
| Thursday, September 22, 1864 |
sicker at the Stomack again + the thin Stoff is runing frely lying on my bed most all day the Doctor com + got some Medisin |
I’m sicker in my stomach again and the thin stuff is running freely. Lying on my bed most of the day. The doctor came and I got some medicine. |
| Friday, September 23, 1864 |
Doctor with us today feel a little better this Morning + Diery Chocked a little but feel wery week writing a Letter to Lars to Nashvill commensed one for home |
The doctor was with us today. I feel better this morning; the diarrhea checked a little, but I feel very week. Writing a letter to Lars in Nashville. I also started a letter for home. |
| Date | Diary entry | edited |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday, September 24, 1864 |
Doctor to day the Diery is runing again took 2 Strossy Pills this Morning + drank little Caff + at one small Craker at Dinner I drink a Cop of bean soup + got sick of it sent a Letter home to wife |
The doctor came today. The diarrhea is running again. I took two Strossy pills this morning. I drank a little coffee and ate one small cracker. For dinner I drank a cup of bean soup and got sick from it. I sent a letter home to my wife. |
| Sunday, September 25, 1864 |
went out with Wm Dixen + gathered some blackberry root got the roots washed them + went home to quarters to lai down. after noon Knud Thompson + Hans com over to see me had no Doctor to day |
I went out with William Dixen and gathered some blackberry roots. We got the roots, washed them, and went home to quarters to lie down. In the afternoon Knud Thompson and Hans came over to see me. I didn’t see the doctor today. |
| Monday, September 26, 1864 |
feel sick + uncomfortable evry way Drink little Caffe for Bracfast had Doctor here + sent me back 3 powders |
I feel sick and uncomfortable in every way. I drank little coffee for breakfast. The doctor was here and he sent me back three powders. |
No it can’t end here! What a read. It gets to me and I can’t stop, I want to know what happens next!!!! What is Black Earth? Is it a city? He stopped mentioning about the money after awhile but he sounded like a businessman as well as a hard worker. I’ll wait for the next chapter to appear…Thanks
Unfortunately, his story does end shortly after his last diary entry on September 26th. Just a few days later, on September 30, 1864, Sever died of dysentery and was buried in a small section of the Atlanta, GA, city cemetery that was set aside for Union soldiers.
Almost 75 years later, his remains were disinterred and moved to the Marietta National Cemetery, where he rests to this day. His fifth daughter, Celia, was born six weeks after her father’s death. Thanks to her late husband’s work in creating a sustainable, secure home for his family, and owing in no small measure to her own character and fortitude, Sever’s wife Martha was able to raise all five of their daughters to adulthood on her own. She remained a widow until her death in 1930 at age 93.
More posts on the Seversons will be forthcoming in the weeks and months ahead.
Black Earth was/is a village in Dane County, Wisconsin (Madison is the county seat of Dane County).
COMMENTS, SUGGESTIONS, CORRECTIONS
To the Sever Severson Diary
January 16: Færelandet. Received the first number. Fædrelandet was a newspaper published at Lacrosse WI.
January 17: ….to meeting in Vermont + to Daakken on visit. Google Gulbrand Olsen Dokken.
January 18: Nubb Rustebakke is Nuub Rustebakke
January 22: K. Monson at B. E.
January 26: letter from Knud Brusveen
Feb. 2: Knud Brusveen came to Black Earth. In Madison tending to foreclosure sale of land + lots in Black Earth. + K. bought et (norwegian for one) for $650. com=kom in Norw.= came (past tense)
Feb 6, Feb 6: Halsten
Feb 7: Lars Sylfestson =Lars Sylfestson
Feb 18: at Halvorson
Feb 20: went in a cutter to Dodgeville on the way to Clobrange to visit my sister. Clobrange = Crow Branch, in Grant County WI. There is a Crow Branch creek out that way, and Crow Branch mine. I think it is around Linden. Will check. In the Valdris dialect the l sound is like an r sound to us aliens, if that explains anything.
Feb 23: went from clobranch (= Crow Branch) through Mineral Point + through Dodgeville + to Ruggles and stopped over night. Ruggles was a stage stop. It is near Hyde in Iowa County. Which Google.
Feb 28: taken likeness I + Knudt Brosveen (this name gets spelled Brosveen, Brosven, Brusven, Brusveen…) and Knudt gets spelled Knudt …. in manuscripts and literature It’s a farm in Etnedal.
March 2: priming wood works (instead of pressing)
March 3: finishing Finlayson buggy ….. making steps on D. Plato’s wagon
March 6: buggy for Finlayson. Which google.
March 11: cutter for Carpenter
March 17: Mrs. Walker burial today
March 20: meeting up [to] Vermont church . . . . . In the evening at temperance lecture in the Methodist church.
March 21: Knud commenced to work (2nd time) today painting wagons and selling one wheel for 4.25
(in earlier entry Knud left work)
March 28: went to Mazomanie to see Mr. Howarth (probably Henry Howarth– which google)
March 30: putting shafts (?) on wagons
March 31 working on drags + drag irons…setting drag teeth
April 1, 1864: to raise money for old soldiers to get them credited to our town
April 4: …… 1 præster com (=kom) to John Fjeld. . . . . . around here Priest is catholic. better to translate præster with ministers
April 5: Mr. Haseltein chairman. Webb + K. Erickson supervisors google: Haseltein Black Earth
April 7: Halsten worked
April 11: for Thom Logan
May 5: wet to R. Bell for spruce + pine trees. . . . . = Robert Bell
To be continued
Thank you so much for your help! I’ll incorporate your edits and improvements as soon as possible. I’m impressed. May I ask how you came to learn so much about the 1864 world of a Norwegian immigrant to Black Earth?
I’ve incorporated all of your edits. Thank you so much! Sorry it’s taken so long for me to get back to this.