Tag Archives: 1960s

Roscoe – July 24, 1969

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Letter transcription:

Dear Bonnie, Dave, Debbie & Kat [the feline variety]

I started making notes and stuff on the 17th of July so if the dates seem a little off please excuse. We have our car and have just a few more than 300 miles or should I say 500 km. It runs well, the horn blows either in German or English depending on who it is pointed toward – more universal sounds. It smells like a new car (universal smells).

We met and visited with a Cousin Fritz Pyser, whose mother was a Yegerlehner. We will see her and possibly others of the clan on Sun. On Mon. & Tue. we will head back to Stuttgart to send the car to West L. We spent some time in Baden Baden – stayed one night there before going to Basal. Stayed in Basal 2 nights and now are in Muri, a small town near Bern. Right now we are watching a German TV “What’s My Line.” Seeing it is OK but it isn’t the same as hearing also (needs more universal something). Somehow I got on a universal kick. Just a passing fancy.

We were walking along the street with Cousin Fritz and we stopped at a store window. He was pointing at something in the window and I saw a little pile of where a dog had been. I guided Gladys around and he came so near cutting his foot (not really cutting) that I got a bunion just twisting my foot sideways and backwards in my shoe trying to guide his foot in the right direction. I never did look back so have no way of knowing the final results. I could write a story and make the title “The Case of the Scrambled Pile or Did He?” Another pretty universal sight was one Gladys & I saw on a street in Basal. A character who had had too much, was walking in front of us. He zigged & zagged. We were not sure of getting around him without an affair – but Gladys came to the rescue and pretended like there was something in the window she wanted to buy – in the window a shot gun & a pair of boots – anyway the trick worked. We didn’t see him again.

And speaking of sights – you should see the bed covers. About

[page 2] a 6 inch layer of eider down in a huge pillow slip like affair. The first morning when I awakened & still a little fuzzy I looked over toward Gladys and this think cover “sorta” balled up in the middle made her look like she was not 6 mo. pregnant but like she had 6 pregnancies all in one (I said I was a little fuzzy). I jumped out of bed to palpate and found she was lying on her stomach and the big pile was the down all in a bunch. What a relief? She didn’t seem to be complimented when I told her she stuck up that high in the back. What a sight!

As we were passing a bank just at closing time there were scores & scores of girls coming out – all in very short skirts. Surely those skirts had shrunk during the day. I just don’t believe they looked like that in the a.m. – maybe the girls grew during the day. Did we have to come to Switzerland to see no skirts? You dirty old man! (Omit the work old please). We did see several old Cathedrals in some of these old towns. Many of these churches were built before America was discovered and they are still in use today. Our cousin in the country told us his combination house & barn was approximately 200 years old and it looked & smelled every bit of it??

(much later)(one week)

Things seem to happen and time passes and this is one week late. We went back to Sundelfinger & made arrangements to ship the car back. We are not in Karachi – despite the hot & stuff we are very comfortable on the 8th floor of the Intercontinental Hotel. It is fully air conditioned but outside it is only fully. The first rain in 2 years fell the day before we arrived. Now there is mud & dust where before it was only dust. Our airline Lufthansa furnished us with a car to get to the Hotel. It took us 25 minutes to make the trip. Needless to say they also furnished us with a driver. The streets here for the most part are not named or numbered. We contacted some people from the church business management and they showed us around town & some country. The streets are wide enough but some are very rought & the traffic is right handed. There is a constant water shortage, so not many green lawns but there are several trees. Like many of the streets in this part of the world there are people & more people. There are so many I’m sure they can’t all get home in one day. It takes two days to make it. There are some trucks, many taxi cabs, many camel carts, many just plain cars & lots of small carts with cute little asses hitched to them. Not the rounded & pink as you might think but they are grey & have long ears. Many of the stores, etc., have English signs. We were in the old city. Also in the Banking & industrial areas. Gladys

[page 3] took many pictures & I’m sure if one looks at those he will not be unimpressed with the conditions. However, the smells won’t show in the picture.

We were told by our acting guide that there is a minimum wage low for the skilled labor. They must be paid about 50₵ per hour – but no law for the unskilled laborer. Those people get paid approx. 35 to 50 centers per day., but for each job the employer must hire two men, one to work while the other one rests – so it costs the employer 70 cents to $1.00 per day.

Across the street from our hotel is a large building that does have a nice lawn & it is being mowed by 4 men. Three pulling & one pushing. The mower is a reel type and is approximately 20 inches wide. So one might say it is a 4 or 8 man power.

Hope you are the same

R.S.Y.

P.S. If John, Lea & Bob come while or after you get this it is for them also. The missionaries have given us the V.I.P. treatment which we have appreciated. I think they do not get as many visitors as some places. One of the family has a son and daughter going back to the States next month to attend college near Seattle. They have relatives in that area. Their oldest son was with us this morning. He had his camera and we both were snapping picture. The father had to park his car and get a paper from a government office so Dad and Jack (the son) and I walked along and I think we captured some good shots. Just hope the pictures turn out ok.

Love Mother

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/06/19/roscoe-july-24-1969/

David’s Diary – July 21, 1969

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Monday, 21 July 1969

Pretty groggy this morning—Bonnie was out of it too—so I fed Debbie breakfast—before 9:00. It was a slow day—suffered from the after effects of being up so late. Off and on during the morning watched Debbie, tuned in CBS news, tried to nap. Also one of the first things: bathed, shaved. After noon I paid more attention to the TV—about 1:50 the astronauts blasted off from the moon. In the afternoon Bonnie, Paul, Marty went to waterski; I took Debbie on my back for a walk—took pictures. Late in afternoon kept close to TV for rendezvous + docking—also saw CBS half-hour film of clippings from many science-fiction films. After supper stayed with Debbie while Paul + Bonnie again went waterskiing; relaxed on porch, visited with Marty + Mrs. Stoner. About 10:15 message to call Don McGaw: Alan Federick messing up parsonage; we will go home tomorrow; packed; OBLO about 12. Θ

Tuesday, 22 July 1969

Up by 8:00—again after being awake until late the night before (coons again); we had breakfast, packed, changed a flat tire, then got on the road by 9:30. Stopped about 30 miles from Massachusetts for lunch—had sandwiches at a picnic table—Bonnie drove most of the way across the state, I drove once we got to 128. We arrived in Rockport at 4:00. Alan wasn’t here, so we had a chance to look over the house. He hadn’t made any great messes since Don + Lawry cleaned up. He arrived; we had some difficulty being natural + civil—but haven’t yet mentioned Don’s phone call to us. He brought suppers for us from Anchor Inn. About 6:40 his friend arrived with station wagon; evening was spent moving his things from our basement to his house. He informed us of his plans to marry Diane. After getting home about 10:00, had coffee, relaxed. Bathed; OBLO 11:20.

Wednesday, 23 July 1969

A lost day; felt weary and lethargic. Up about 8:45. Did so little today that I can’t remember exactly what I did do. Spent time at my desk in the A.M. Called Dr. Uhlinger to arrange time for pastor-parish committee meeting. Spent time with Newsweek when it arrived in the mail; spoke to Hazel Brady on the phone about storing our things with her. Bonnie went grocery shopping—we had a late lunch after she got home. In the mid-afternoon I borrowed Crowell’s trailer to haul the trash barrell [sic] to the dump. After I got home again, Bonnie got me to helper [sic] her to clear out the far back room over the kitchen. She began painting; about 6:00 I went to Gloucester to get fried chicken for our supper; watched CBS news—and at 7:00 saw live broadcast from Apollo 11. Did some painting in the back room; about 9:00 went to the Patriquins; home about 10:30. bathed; OBLO c. 11:30 Θ

Thursday, 24 July 1969

Dr. and Mrs. James R. Uhlinger in front of their Melrose home. This photo came in their 1968 Christmas card – Received Dec. 17, 1968 in Rockport

Another lost day as far as studying is concerned. Up about 8:30. Had breakfast—went to my study—but just sat in a dull stupor for a while. Bonnie went to get more paint for the back room. I helped on this later in the morning. At noon I turned on the TV to watch the splashdown of Apollo 11. Alan arrived to pick up his mail and go to the bank. He left while we were having lunch. I watched the Apollo coverage until the astronauts were aboard the carrier and welcomed by President Nixon. After this I shaved, went to church to change the wayside pulpit; went to lumber yard for supplies for the back room. When I got home I went to work—I am covering the chimney in the room with py [sic] board. We had supper about 6:30. Then rushed off to movie: Faces, at 7:00. Picked Debbie up at Patriquins afterward. Home about 10:30. Very weary, OBLO, 11:15.

Friday, 25 July 1969

Up about 8:30. After breakfast turned my attention to the carpentry work in the back room. This took a major part of the day. Winnie Gamage came over at mid-morning to see what we were doing. I had to make one trip to the lumber yard. The mail man brought a letter from Prof. Nineham at Cambridge granting permission to attend lectures. Had lunch around noon. While working on the back room about mid-afternoon, Pat Harry called from Alan Federick’s. There is a great struggle going on between the two—with Diane Nancekevill being the 3rd party. Pat called twice in the afternoon and once in the evening. She’s quite discouraged. We too are concerned with Alans whirlwind fall for Diane. I hope Pat can prevail over Alan—but it appears doubtfull. Supper about 6:30—at 7:30 saw Ted Kennedy explanation of the car crash; worked at my desk in the evening; wrote to Kennedy that he shouldn’t resign; wrote also to two realtors in Cambridge, bathed; OBLO.

Saturday, 26 July 1969

Up by 8:30. Had breakfast, shaved, then went down to the church—Church Fair today. Stayed for a wild, and then came home. Very weary today—had energy only in bursts. About 11:00 went back to the church, then came up again later to get  Bonnie +  Debbie—we had chicken for lunch at the church. When I saw Alan Federick—after a brief chat with him, and has he was leaving, I rushed up to the house and phoned Pat. Napped. By 4 o’clock Pat called me again—she thinks she’s lost Alan, but will stay as long as possible. I worked on my sermon. We had supper around 6:30. Watched NBC news—the box of moon rocks from Apollo 11 was opened today. After supper I went to church to change wayside pub; finished sermon, worked on bulletins—then worked on getting service ready, painted in back room; bathed, OBLO, midnight.

Sunday, 27 July 1969

Up about 8:00; breakfast, shaved, practiced sermon, off to church at about 9:35. Over 30 in church—a very cloudy gloomy day. Communion, preached on the moon landing and its actual lack of effect on human nature. Home about noon; Bonnie had lunch cooking in the electric skillet. After lunch I planned to nap, but I picked up John Updike’s book Couples, and became engrossed in it—read all afternoon in fact. About six we stopped to have supper; Bonnie had painted the floor in the back room, then read and napped. After supper I got into good clothes again. About 7:20 left for Riverdale church for the hymnsing—at least 30 present. This broke up shortly after 8:30 and I was home by 9:00. Not in the mood to go to work on German again—so read further in Couples. Shortly after 10:00, Θ. Then we had a drink, got ready for bed. OBLO, 11:00.

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/06/18/davids-diary-july-21-1969/

David’s Diary – July 14, 1969

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Monday, 14 July 1969

Up about 8:20. Shaved right after breakfast. The morning was spent loading the car—part of it done in drizzle. Before leaving town we had to get gas and change wayside pulpit. We left town about 11:50. We stopped for lunch at the first rest area on the Mass Pike. Bonnie drove for a while, but I did most of it. About 4:00 we crossed from Mass into NY. We finally arrived here at the Stoner house at the Silver Bay YMCA camp about 7 o’clock. We had supper, chatted, got Debbie off to bed. The[n] Paul + Marty, Bonnie + I went out for a while in their Sail Boat. Not a very big boat, but fun. The water was very quiet—almost no wind. A very restful place; we were back to the house about 9:45—I got ready for bed—very tired; off to bed by 10:30. Θ

Tuesday, 15 July 1969

A long tiring day. We were awake about 4:00 AM—raccoons outside the window trying to get open the garbage cans. Debbie was awake too. Finally we had to give her the morning bottle; I was awake, so studied German from 5:30–6:30. Sleepy, went back to bed, did get some sleep until 9:00 AM, got breakfast; felt lousy. A very slow morning. Finally got to German, but I was still suffering from loss of sleep and ran into difficult German. After lunch and more work on German, Bonnie + I went out in the sail boat with Paul + Marty; went swimming—had a grand time. Back about 5:00; Grandma took us all out to eat. When we got back, Paul wanted to water-ski, we went along, but only he skied. We got back to the house about 9:30. Visited; I study [sic] more on German; bathed; off to bed; lights out 11:15.

Wednesday, 16 July 1969

Up about 8:30; had a very good night, so was rested. After breakfast watched the launch of Apollo 11—held Debbie in my lap for her to see the rocket take off—with the manned landing on the mood scheduled. Finally got around to German, although I turned the TV on again at 11:00 and 12:15 for news of Apollo. After lunch I worded steady [sic] on German until 3:30. Then we all (4) went sailing and swimming—another beautiful day on the water. We were home by 6:00 another 30-45 min. of German; had supper, watched CBS news, then at 7:30 Mr. Stoner, Paul, Bonnie + I went waterskying [sic], i.e., trying to teach Bonnie, then me. After about 8 tries, Bonnie couldn’t really get up—but I manage [sic] to succeed with 5 or 6 tries. Came home exhausted by 9:30. Relaxed, visited, had snack, but then returned to German about 11:00. But not for long! OBLO[1], c: 11.25

Thursday, 17 July 1969

David’s brother-in-law, Paul, on his sailboat, April 1969

Up about 8:00; after breakfast set to work on German—Bonnie went to waterski with others. I tried to spend most of the day on German. But it was uncomfortably warm today and I ran into some very troublesome passages—so progress was slow. After lunch I kept working until about 2:30. Went to the beach to photography [sic] Debby with Marty + Bonnie. Came back to the house and worked on German until about 3:30. Marty, Paul, + I then went across the lake (sailed) to the swimming place took pictures—Bonnie went with Mrs. Stoner + Debbie to the beach again. We were home by about 5:45. After supper returned to German while Bonnie + Paul went to waterski. Watched CBS news 7:00-7:30. Studied rest of the evening with many interruptions; finally bathed after 11:00. Then spent a little more time on German; OBLO, 11:45.

Friday, 18 July 1969

Was up about 8:00; went to work on German after breakfast. Wasn’t feeling too hot—went back to bed for a few minutes. After getting up again, returned to German. About 11:00 I stopped to shave, eat lunch, pack our things into Paul’s car. They returned from sailing about 12:30—and within a half hour we left for Schnectady. Bonnie, Debbie, + I dozed on the way. Not too long after arriving I got to work on German again. Then when Paul got the van, we started loading Paul + Marty’s things into it from the garage. When we had it filled we stopped for supper + to watch the news. Then we went to their house; after unloading went to look at a refrigerator. Returned home, reloaded, back to the house again—Bonnie came too—Debbie left with Marty’s brother Bob. Home again snack, bathed off to bed 12:15.

Saturday, 19 July 1969

Couldn’t get sleep—Debbie groaning and lousy bed; at 12:45 went downstairs—slept most of the night on the couch. In the morning after breakfast helped Paul load the van again. Then stayed home with Debbie while Paul, Marty + Debbie [sic; should read Bonnie] went to the house. Slept some in the meanwhile—late in morning went to grocery; at 12:30 fed Debbie. Was eating my lunch when others returned about 2:00. By three they had returned; I stayed with Debbie—at 4 o’clock watched Apollo 11 telecast from moon orbit. Then fixed supper for the group. They returned by 6:00. We had supper. By about 7:00 we got on the road for return to Silver Bay. We got here about 9:00; sat around chatting until about 10:15. Debbie enjoyed herself playing in the living room; off to bed—LO c. 10:45.

Sunday, 20 July 1969

A long, exciting day. Up about 8:30. After breakfast, I got to work on German—took a photo of Paul with Debbie on his back. Just before 11:00 turned on the TV for moon coverage. Kept pretty close to the TV all day—did get a few German sentences done—but paid attention mostly to the TV. Had a brief lunch—but watched TV closely from then on. A very exciting moment as the spacecraft neared landing—and set down—at 4:17:40 EDT. We had supper, after learning that the walk on the moon was advanced several hours. Stayed at the TV all evening. About 10:00 Armstrong + Aldrin began moon walk. The TV pictures from the moon were amazing. We could clearly observe the maneuvers and wanderings of the astronauts. Of course saw Nixon’s call to the astronauts; finally tore myself away from the TV about 2:30;  OBLO 2:40.

[1] My first use, apparently, of this acronym, meaning “off to bed, lights out.”

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/06/17/davids-diary-july-14-1969/

Gladys – July 11, 1969

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Letter transcription:

Written from notes taken in flight from Chicago by R.S.Y. copied for you by G.R.Y.

Hullo, July 11 – time unknown –

According to what our captain just told us we should be approaching the western edge of Greenland. As near as I can calculate it is about 10 PM E.D.T. It has been dark for some time.

I feel if I’m going to write I should do it today because we really have nothing to do but shift from cheek to cheek to avoid “tail bone trouble.” Our flight on good ‘ole Allegheny was uneventful. Left Lafayette on time and arrived in Chicago on time. We did have a long wait in Chicago as we knew we would, but after we boarded Lufthansa, the delays one hears about these days at the crowded airports was apparent. We waited approximately twice as long as the flight from Lafayette to Chicago. We inched along to the runway just like leaving Ross-Ade stadium after a football game. The captain kept us informed of the details. The plane got very hot – the air conditioning didn’t seem to be working. Reminded me of a certain Dr.’s office, at the Health Center after the thermostat has been rudely attacked by nurse with screwdriver in hand. Incidentally the plane is cold right now and I do feel very much at home with the changes. (My nurse is chronically at war with the thermometer.)

The plane is loaded to capacity and one hears many foreign tongues. How much more simple it would be if we all spoke a universal language? One can hear however certain universal sounds if he cares to listen – such as a belch, a laugh here & there and a shrill scream of a child now and then, expressing pain or joy or just plain “cussedness” (and off the record) there are a couple of kids in the seats just ahead of us who should get a “knuckle sandwich” if they do not stop shifting their seat backs from far back to forward. They are bothering my good composure. Their giggling, is also a part of the universal language – come to think of it a “knuckle s.” is also a bit of universal language when administered in the correct maneuver to the most advantageous location.

It is now 11 PM (E.D.T.) I think our dinner is over – had steak – shrimp cocktail – cream with nuts to top off meat. We have been shown the breakfast menu. The entire flight – not counting the runway waiting time – is between 7 & 8 hrs. & needless to say non-stop. Just about the same time as a working day at Student Health Center. So now I must get my nighties on and two glasses of water for my dentures – one for upper and one for lower before retiring.

Just heard another few universal language sounds, a couple of sneezes and a cough or two. I rather think in a short time the universal sound of a snore or two will be heard and every

[page 2] language knows what that means. There are many more sounds and a few smells which all languages understand, but just use your imagination.

Now it is morning “I think” – The sun is coming up at about 2:30 a.m. according to my watch – we are mixed up and that is a universal something. Nothing more exciting, except the little boy in the seat in front of me. He must be sitting on a pair of rubber balls the way he bounces, or maybe a Pogo stick.

Hoping you are the same,
RSY

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/06/16/gladys-july-11-1969/

Gladys – July 9, 1969

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Letter transcription:

118 Juniper Court
West Lafayette, Ind. 47906
July 9, 1969

Dear David and Bonnie,

Just hope those pictures get here before we leave, your letter came yesterday. Dad got the schedule rearranged for this week, so we are going to be leaving on Friday instead of Saturday. I asked the travel agency about flying from Boston, but was advised against that since there has been some difficulty with planes getting into airports. They thought we had better just leave from O’Hare. Dad doesn’t have to work tomorrow, but since July 10th is the last day of the special rates for tours, all seats were taken, but we did get seating for the 11th. The lab report on Dad’s skin was OK. His face has just about recovered and his black eye is entirely gone. However, he did have some discoloration for about two weeks.

We went to Champaign Thursday evening and to Indianapolis Sunday morning, since we had a long weekend. We wanted to see Mark before leaving – he has power of attorney for us and John and Lea and Bob wanted us to come over before leaving. I am beginning to feel like I am about ready to go. Have the bags just about packed and hope I have thought of everything we will need while we are away. Since it has been so cool here most of the time and I had a letter from the woman I have been corresponding with in Switzerland telling me that it has been cold and rainy there, I am taking two wool suits with me. I remember three years ago I was not quite warm enough while we were there, so this time I am going prepared. This morning it was rather cool here, but by noon I had the air conditioner upstairs on and now we have both on. It is so humid and since we are on daylight (Eastern – that is) savings time, it stays light here until about 9:30. It is eight o’clock now and the sun still has some distance to go before setting.

I am enclosing a copy of our itinerary for your information. We will write to you from time to time, or send you cards. I found the cards after you left that were misplaced on my desk. I had put everything on the basket behind the adding machine and the cards being slick, had slipped off and were behind the filing cabinet.

Sandy Corbin was married last Saturday, but we didn’t go to the weeding since we were in Champaign. Her picture is in the Journal-Courier tonight. She was quite a beautiful bride. From the account in the paper, it was quite a large affair. Had an invitation to attend a shower for the bride to be of Jim Johnson, Nancy Dickman. They are to be married the weekend after we return and the wedding will be in Michigan, so I rather think we will not be going.

We plan to return August 18th, so we can talk to you before you leave about money. When you will need it and how much. Will you keep your checking account in Rockport, or how will you handle your money? If you won’t need it until after the first of the year, how will we handle that?

The enclosed letter was opened by Dad by mistake. I am sending it on, though I hardly think it would be necessary. It has been on my desk for some time. Forgot to send it the last time I wrote.

Love Mother

Ck. for $5.00 – the extra $5.00 is for something for Debbie’s birthday

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/06/15/gladys-july-9-1969/

David’s Diary – July 7, 1969

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Monday, 7 July 1969

Up around 9:00 as I recall; had a small breakfast of toast and coffee. Had no fever today, but my bowels were still very runny, so I ate little—broth + toast, ice cream, jello, coffee. Spent the whole day on German again. Didn’t spend all my time with Noth, but managed to get two lessons done in the grammar book. Had to take a break in mid-afternoon—to avoid a headache. Bonnie went shopping early in the afternoon. We had supper around 6:30—watched CBS news. Went back to German, arrived at a stopping point about 8:30—at which time we took pictures—tried to get family portraits; took about half a dozen. Then I got back to work. Allen called from Canada in a.m.—won’t be back till late tonight. I stopped studying about 12:30; bowels much improved. Bathed; snacked; off to bed; lights out 1:30.

Tuesday, 8 July 1969

Up about 8:45 after Θ. Had breakfast; greeted Alan when he arose—he arrived home about 2:00 AM. A slow morning. I walked to the post office—but felt winded and weak because of my weekend illness. Relaxed for the most part in the morning, although on towards noon Alan + I did get down to German. We had lunch on the table outside. After lunch we began going over my translation of Noth. After a while Alan became sleepy. He nap[ped] while I translated. About 4:20 (after I had relaxed for a few minutes) he woke up, drove to P.O. +  to Gloucester, then when he got back we went back to work on German until supper; watched CBS news; about 7:30 to 8:30 we worked on German, then he went to write letters; I translated until about 9:30 when we went to Patriquins. Showed some slides (box 18). Home about 10:30; bathed; worked on German until about 12:15; off to bed; lights out 12:25.

Wednesday, 9 July 1969

About 8:30. After breakfast Alan and I worked on German out in the yard—that is reading my translation for him to check. The morning was marked by the departure of two of our kittens. Bonnie took them to the Animal Rescue League in Gloucester ( to be adopted).  But we hated to see them go. After lunch I shaved, then got back to work on German. Alan was waiting for Pat Harry [???] to call from Kennedy Airport in NY—she did about 3:00—she was catching plane for Boston. Alan left for Logan. Bonnie, Debbie +  I went to Gloucester to make our travel reservations for Europe. Back home I wrote letter to David Watson. Had supper, then Bonnie + I went to the show, “Closely Watched Train”  at Little Arts Cinema. Afterwords picked up Debbie at Patriquins, headed home, wrote letter to Gary Myers—phone calls from Alan, Diane Nancekevill, Don McGaw; worked on German more; bathed; off to bed; lights out 12:30.

Thursday, 10 July 1969

Gladys holding Debbie, March 1969

Stayed in bed rather late this morning; wasn’t up until after 9:00. Shaved immediately after breakfast. Wrote letter to the chairman of the Divinity faculty at Cambridge requesting permission to attend lectures. Went to post office and to the bank, to give Jean Crowell $50 check for Fund For Reconciliation. Came home, begin fixing fire in outdoor fireplace—began cooking chicken. Relaxed; Allen and Pat didn’t arrive until 12:45—at which time we ate. After lunch Bonnie + I left them alone in the picnic area. I tried to nap some, wrote letter to Mrs. Myers. Then we all had tea + pie together; after they left I was utterly exhausted. But I got to work on German; at 6:30 watched CBS news; had a snack supper. Got to German again after 8:00. Spent most of the evening on it with some interruptions—but made good progress. Bathed about 12:15; off to bed, lights out 1 AM.

Friday, 11 July 1969

I’ll today at 9:25 went to work immediately on German without breakfast. Interrupted only briefly by the mail man. About 11:30 Allen called—he and Pat would arrived [sic] in about an hour. I shaved, then returned to German. When Alan + Pat got here we had lunch, I went back to German then for a while. Then Alan and I went over my translation. This was done by about 3:00; Bonnie +  Pat had gone shopping in Gloucester. Alan napped + I took Debby on my back and went to visit Grace Harris [?] + Mrs. Rich. Home about 4:00. Chatted with Bonnie + Pat. Shortly after Alan left, Bonnie got supper while I worked on German. After supper we went to the show at Little Arts Cinema: “Stollen Kisses.” This was out a[t] 9:00; picked up Debbie at Patriquins. Home again; read for sermon; then back to German; stop to bathe; off to bed; lights out at 12 after Θ.

Saturday, 12 July 1969

Up at 7:50; got a cup of coffee and went right to work on German. Worked pretty steadily until mail man came; he brought slides, which we viewed. I then shaved; went to the church then went to Patriquins to borrow the slide screen. Came home, had lunch. After this went to work on sermon; had to do some reading; finished this about three. Went down to see you Mr. + Mrs. Patience. Home by 3:45. Went back to work on sermon until finished. Typed first side of the bulletin stencil; fixed supper, watched NBC news (Sat.) + other show. Then went to see Rip Hannibal. Took slides up to show. Was there for about 2 hours. Home by 10:00. Then we went to the Patriquins; showed them the new box of slides; had a snack, visited. Shortly after 11:00 came home, called Don McGaw about preaching next Sunday; finished bulletin; worked on service; bathed; practiced service; off to bed, lights out 1:38.

Sunday, 13 July 1969

Felt Debby’s first tooth today   Up about 8:40. Very weary. Shaved, had cup of coffee. Went to the church. Almost 40; preached on Second Isaiah. Home about 11:15; helped with lunch. After lunch Busseys came over briefly to get water. After they left I tried to nap successfully. Played with Debbie for a while. Rested more. About 4:00 I finally got to work on German.—but I didn’t do very much—too weary. Tried to nap again; had more success.  Up about 6:00; Don Magaw called with his sermon title, hymns, scripture for next Sunday. We had supper, then I typed up most of the bulletin stencil. About 8:20 Lloyd Starrett came over to confer on our wills + trust fund, copies of which he had sent us through the mail. He left about 9:30. Then we set about preparing to leave tomorrow. I finished the bulletin + attaching directions; cleaned up my study; packed briefcase;  packed suit case; bathed; off to bed, lights out 12:30.

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/06/14/davids-diary-july-7-1969/

David’s Diary – June 30, 1969

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Monday, 30 June 1969

Up shortly after 9:00. Didn’t get much accomplished in the morning. But I did get to work on German. The mail man brought copies of my will from Loyd Starrett—very long + technical—Bonnie managed to plow through much of it in the afternoon. After lunch about 12:30, went back to German—completely by [sic] 2 page quota by 3:15. Then Alan and I went out to measure the picnic table for repairing it. We made a trip to the dump, then to Building Center in Rockport + Gloucester for redwood planks. Came home, worked briefly at the remains of the old table, then I fixed supper since it was fish. We ate about 6:30, listened to CBS news. Then sat in the yard—I studied, after a fashion (German) came in about 8:45—we went to Patriquins—(not Alan) then came home about 10:30. Listened to music briefly with Alan; bathed, off to bed; Θ, lights out 11:35.

Tuesday, 1 July 1969

Up shortly after 8:00—had trouble getting to sleep last night—up  still at 1:00 a.m. So it was hard to come alive this morning. But after breakfast I got to work on German. Bonnie was off for the day on a shopping trip—Alan went into Cambridge. I made some progress in the morning on German. Then took Debby with me to get groceries in Gloucester—mainly a chicken. After getting home—made preparations for supper—feeding Debby +  myself set to work on the picnic table—Alan assisting  (he got back about 1:00). We worked on the table the greater part of the afternoon. Bonnie got home after 4:30 (Alan went to Gloucester to pick her up at Becky Busseys’).—I finished work on the table–fixed supper. Barbecue chicken at the outside fireplace. After supper we sat in the yard—all  bushed. Shortly after 8:00 I got back to work on German. Spent the evening on this—read translation with Alan too; stopped to bathe about midnight; off to bed; lights out 12:50.

Wednesday, 2 July 1969

Up sometime around 9:00 after Θ. Got breakfast and set to work on German. By noon I had done about a page—but there were several interruptions—e.g.  mail man brought more slides, which we viewed immediately. After lunch we began getting ready to go. About 2:00 we finally left for Wellesley—we were off for Robert Peek’s—that is, his parents home at 11 Fells Rd.—they are “house-sitting”. We arrived about 3:15—and shortly thereafter we all headed for nearby Norris pond. Went canoeing—and swimming; Debby seemed quite fascinated. Bob and I did some “bobbing” [?]  on the canoe and both landed in the water. About 6:00 we came back to the house and began working on supper—grilling steaks outside. We had a pleasant supper on the back screened porch. Relaxed, visited after supper—Debby did a lot of walking; about 10:15 we began heading for bed; bathed; to bed, lights out 11:12 [after  ???? book on Queen Elizabeth].

Thursday, 3 July 1969

Debbie, April 1969

Peek’s blasted dog Thor begin getting restless about 4:00 a.m.—on the porch beside the room where we were sleeping—so we were disturbed. Got back to sleep after Debby had to be fed. Got up as Peeks we’re leaving—about 7:30. We got ready to go and got on the road about 9:00. Stopped on the way to do the shopping, but we were home by 11:00. Looked through the mail, mounted the baby-gate we bought; relaxed, got lunch—after I made a quick trip too little store—we ate lunch outside on the picnic table. After lunch I was weary—so I napped. Got sound sleep. Up about 3:30. Shaved, went to see Mrs. Leary. When I got home I finally got to my German. Made some progress by supper time—had supper around 6:30—CBS news; relaxed, had coffee with Alan out at the picnic table. Then sorted, dated, numbered the slides which came yesterday; viewed them + duplicates which came today; finally to German for rest of evening; stopped to bathe about 12:00; more on German; off to bed, lights out 1:05.

Friday, 4 July 1969

Got up about 8:20—had breakfast then set to work on German—determined that I would get caught up, which I did, about 2:30 or 3:00 this afternoon. Stopped around noon to eat and shave. After I stopped German, I went out into the yard and read in preparation for my sermon on Isaiah. Stopped about 4:00—few minutes before; dressed, then took Debby with me down to Millbrook Park to visit several of the elderly; didn’t stay long with each one. Saw Parsons, Martin, Anna +  Alvina, Leary, Bate. Home by 5:00. The Busseys came over and we had a cook-out in the yard. This was over about 7:00—at which time I did more reading on the sermon—while Bonnie +  Becky (+ her friend) went to watched [sic]  the parade; I was drowsy, napped. At 9:00 we went to watch Bonfire—really big blaze—took pictures; home about 10:30, bathed  off to bed.

Saturday, 5 July 1969

Up about 8:30 after Θ.  Didn’t bother with breakfast, but went to work numbering and writing out descriptions of the slides to go to Bonnie’s folks (via my folks). Got them boxed up; about 10:00 went to the post office, changed wayside pulpit, home again—got to work on German. Had a light lunch around 12:15, shaved, got back to work on German about 1:15, after taking several pictures of Debby (B+W). Worked on German until after 3:00, then did the bulletin (typed stencil)  very lethargic—beginning to feel ill. Worked on German until 6:30—Watched the news, had supper, back to German. Then set to work on the sermon; running temperature of 100.4—diarrhea. Ugh! Finished sermon, ran bulletins off. Worked on the service—not feeling too hot—rather week; practiced sermon; more German for a few minutes; off to bed; lights out 12:25.

Sunday, 6 July 1969

Didn’t sleep very well—so didn’t feel very well when I got up about 8:30. Still sick, had small breakfast, shaved, left for church. A sizable crowd—Merlin + Becky Levering were in the congregation. I preach [sic] on I Isaiah—with a 101° temperature; I left during the singing of the last hymn.  (Homer Orne gave the benediction.) I didn’t want to expose myself to people. Came home, went to bed. Leverings had lunch with Bonnie—I stayed upstairs didn’t even see them. After they’d gone Bonnie brought me a bowl of soup. Later I got dressed and sat in my chair—worked on German all day long—with few interruptions—mainly to go to the bathroom—the diarrhea continues unfortunately. Didn’t eat much all day so I am rather weak and hungry. But made good progress in German despite my ill health; bathed; small snack, OJ + toast; off to bed lights out 12.

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/06/13/davids-diary-june-30-1969/

David’s Diary – June 23, 1969

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Monday, 23 June 1969

Up about 7:30. Shaved, packed; Kent Millard picked me up, we arrived at Fisk Church about 9:00. The Vietnam resolution was one of the first things on the agenda. Amid a tangle of parliamentary maneuvers it passed, relatively easily actually. No controversial matters—other than it—came up in the morning. Had lunch with Jim Bussey + Charlie Whitford. In the afternoon there were attempts to adjourn the conference to another day—since Bishop Mathews was in New York until this evening. During a roll call on the issue, the Ornes + I  left for Rockport. We were home by 5:00. It was good to see Bonnie + Debby again. Debby doing much better walking. Alan Fererick arrived from Montreal—he’ll be with us for a few days. We had supper together—early in the evening  Bonnie + I went for a walk along the beach—Alan stayed with Debby; came home, relaxed, visited, showed slides; slowly prepared for bed; bathed, off to bed, lights out, after Θ+, 11:15.

Tuesday, 24 June 1969

Up by 8:00. Had breakfast, during which Sarah Orne called me about the death of Mary Olsen; I shaved immediately and went to see her husband. Spent the morning with him; after leaving him about 11:00, dropped in to see the Ornes, then home again. Worked at cleaning up my desk, had lunch. After lunch my post-conference fatigue was making itself felt—wanted a nap. I stretched out about 1:30—didn’t come to until about 4:00. Had coffee with Alan who is still here. Worked further at my desk. Bonnie got home with groceries, which I unloaded from the car. More work at my desk, fixed supper. After supper I became involved in getting slides ready to be sent in—for duplicates and prints for our folks, Stoners, Alan. After this sat talking with Alan on theology, listening to music; bathed, off to bed about 11:30—lights out after Θ+, 11:45.

Wednesday, 25 June 1969

Up before 8:00–had breakfast; by about 8:30 I was working on German–after being away from it since Friday. I was able to spend most of the morning working on it–stopped briefly when the mail man came. After lunch around 12:15 Alan and I began to work on my German translation. He got very sleepy. While he nap I have a cup of coffee, read some in Newsweek, then worked further in German. When he got up he had to finish letter + go out; so I finally got around to starting Fund For Recon. Letters. When Alan returned we worked further until about 5:45. Then we had supper. –Scared Alan  Bonnie + I dropped Debby off at Patriquins and went to see For Love of Ivy at Little Arts Cinema. At 9:00 went to Patriquins for mug-up. Came home about 10:00; visited with Alan. Bonnie went to bed; Alan and I listened to records; bathed; off to bed, lights out 12:12.

Thursday, 26 June 1969

Debbie in playpen, March 1969

Up before 8:30. After breakfast Alan and I worked on German and finally caught up with my translation. Then for the rest of the morning I tried to concentrate on German, but there were interruptions. After lunch I got to work in earnest on getting the Fund For Reconciliation letters finished—wrote 24 in all—didn’t want to mimeograph these notes of thanks. Walked with Alan down to Curtis’ to get envelopes. We invited Jim + Becky Bussey over for supper since we were having turkey. Early in day I handed Alan Cradle of Erotica—he’s been pining away over Dianna in Montreal. Alan, Jim + I discussed church, atheism, the term God—I don’t know whether Jim is still an atheist. After Jim + Becky left Debby did some extensive walking around the living room—really doing very well. Late in the evening I finally got back to my desk; prepared funeral service for tomorrow; bathed; off to bed; lights of 12:17.

Friday, 27 June 1969

A hot, humid, slow day. Up about 8:20. Had breakfast, then got to work finishing preparations for the funeral service. Went to the post office to mail all the Fund For Recon. thank-you letters. Interruption in my desk work when the mail man came. Late in the morning—napped, around noon actually. Got up and had a simple lunch; shaved; dressed and left for the church. Arrived about 1:20. Service began at 2:00—very hot and humid; as I was preaching I could feel the drops of perspiration running down my back; went to cemetery for committal service. Home in about 3:00; very soon we went to the beach, were joined later by Allen, who had gone to Brandeis. Returned home, chatted with Alan in the yard; bathed supper—felt very weary; reclined in the living room—spent the whole evening there—Bonnie cutting out cloth—and we all hearing records. This took the whole evening, very enjoyable; off to bed, lights out c. 11:45.

Saturday, 28 June 1969

Another very hot, humid day—about 90° by 11:00 a.m. Up about 9:00—wasn’t a day for accomplishing much. In the morning I managed to get the bulletin done; Allen is trying to lose weight. He did sanding on barbecue grill in the hot sun. After lunch I got to work on my sermon finally. Wrote about half of it, then all four of us drove over to Mal’s in Allen’s car—top down. Got groceries—also bought lawn chair and an air-mattress for use in the water. Shortly after we got home, Alan + I  went to the beach—water very cold—but we got a little used to it—and it was very delightful floating around on my mattress—he has one too. Returned home—bathed, had a salad supper—then returned to the yard in our new chairs—Debby in playpin [sic]. She enjoyed putting her head to the floor of the crib and looking at me back through her legs; lazy evening; worked on service; off to bed, lights out 11:35.

Sunday, 29 June 1969

Up about 8:00; had breakfast, shaved—unhurriedly. Left for church about 9:35. About 40 at the service—I preached on the events of the Conference last week. Home by about 11:45. After lunch I got to work on German after being away from it for a day or two. Worked rather steadily until about 4:00—got almost 2 pp translated. We all went to the beach—had a delightful time floating on my air raft. Alan photographed me on it reading a book! We were home by 6:00—went about fixing supper—which we had about 7:00. By 8:15 I was back with German. During the evening Alan came in (to my study) and we went through my German translation. Debby is getting much better at walking—went from coffee table in living room to the front door. This evening she got a bump on head + a small cut. We don’t know how—but she wasn’t phased by it. Bathed at 10:45; off to bed; Θ, lights out 11:15.

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/06/12/davids-diary-june-23-1969/

David’s Diary – June 16, 1969

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Monday, 16 June 1969

Debby 10 months old. Weary after yesterday’s meeting—in bed until after 9:00; Θ before arising; breakfast—rather slow in getting around to German, but by 10 o’clock, with several interruptions (phone calls, picture taking, etc.) I had made some progress. Lunch, shaved; worked further on German. About 3:30 went to call on Gazella Dodd then at 4:30 to see Daisy Jodrey. Home after 5:00; wrote two letters, one to Dr. Beck and another to the realtor in Cambridge which he recommended. Had supper about 6:30. At 7:30 Jim Bussey and Forrest Clark arrived—we had to talk over steps to be take[n] to help get Fund For Reconciliation money for Gloucester needs. This lasted until about 9:00; then we went down to Patriquins; saw movie of Debby + George Harris. Visited, came home about 11:00; worked on German; bathed; off to bed, lights out 12:07.

Tuesday, 17 June 1969

Passport came in mail. Debby was awake before 5:00 (!) but she was put downstairs. At 9 o’clock I was gotten out of bed by the phone; Alan Federick wanting to use our basement since he had to move his things out immediately. I worked on German some this morning, but by 11:00 was hard at work for Alan—moving his things—via his car—into our basement. Stopped about 12:30 for lunch, and then relaxed shortly. Then back to the loading and unloading. Didn’t finish until almost 4:00. I got back to work on German, but was very weary. Went to the front bedroom and relaxed, fell asleep. Got up about 6:30. We watched news; Bonnie was late getting supper. We didn’t eat until about 7:30. By 8:00 I got back to work on German. Phone call from Homer Orne. About 10:00—shortly before—I called Kent Millard in Newton Upper Falls—re: conference resolution on Vietnam; worked on German until 11:30. Stopped to bathe + have snack; off to bed; lights out 12:16.

Wednesday, 18 June 1969

Up at 8:35 after Θ. Had breakfast—gave Debby her breakfast while Bonnie got some more sleep. Hadn’t shaved yesterday, so began on this right after eating; while in the process Alan Federick came over with his last load of items to go in basement. About mid-morning I got to work on German; lunch about 1:00, then made progress at German. Took a coffee break about 3:30—at which time Ray + Ellen Stoner arrived from Schnectady. While they + Bonnie (+Debby) went to the Christmas Dove, I went to see Mr. + Mrs. Patience. At 5:00 I walked down to end of Bearskin Neck—to Christmas Dove, in search of the girls—but found them at home. Visited with the girls, had super—got back to work on German while they all went down to the Neck; I stayed home with Debby, studied; Debby walked about 3-4 feet (12 tiny steps); listened to Tom Lehrer when girls got home; snack, relaxed, visited, off to bed, lights out 11:53.

Thursday, 19 June 1969

Debbie, May 1969

Up about 8:35—had breakfast, then while Ellen, Kay and Bonnie went off seeing sights, I worked on German. Made progress until about noon. Stopped to shave and have lunch—about 1:15 we left for Dr. Kline’s office for Debby’s regular checkup appointment; Debby is 28½ inches tall, 18 pounds—we were out of his office by 2:15. Came home, Bonnie again went out with Kay + Ellen—I napped. Very briefly around 3:30 Bob Mezzoff (?) + his wife dropped in to see the parsonage; they served here several years ago; back to German for a while. When Kay + Ellen came back, we showed them our slides—had supper around 6:30. They left by 7:00. We watched President Nixon’s new conference. Just a few minutes after this was over, much to our surprise, Paul + Marty arrived. Spent the evening visiting—showing slides; bathed about 11:00. German—off to bed; lights out 11:55.

Friday, 20 June 1969

Up not too long after 8:00; we all got up and just sat around talking for a while. At nine I went to the store for bread, then we had breakfast. After break [?] I had to tend to doing the bulletin and packing. The others went out for a walk around town. I went to the church briefly, came home, worked at my desk. Around noon shaved, the others returned, we had lunch. About 1:30 they then left for Gloucester to see Busseys. I got ready to go, then worked on German until 3 o’clock when the Ornes came for me. We drove to Natick—Fisk Memorial Church. Registered, chatted with friends—executive session got under way about 5:15—over around 6:00. We had supper at a huge hall of a girl’s school near the church. Evening session 8:00—not very thrilling; over by 9:30. Ornes brought me to the home where I’m staying; bathed, off to bed, lights out 11:41.

Saturday, 21 June 1969

Up about 7:30, shaved, had small breakfast; Mr. McEwan drove me to the church—arrived about 8:30. Nothing very exciting at the morning session; had lunch with George Collis; in the morning there was some discussion among those of us pushing for a stronger Vietnam resolution. The afternoon session was likewise rather dull. At one point Jim Bussey, Dr. Uhlinger + I had an extended chat about Forrest Clark and Riverdale Church. Uhlinger indicated that an interim pastor might serve Rockport and that I could return. Bussey and I talked further—we walked to the lunch hall together—and back. After supper we maneuvered further re: the Vietnam resolution, but the evening session was devoted entirely to a resolution of black requests to the conference. Received with resistance—the older church structure fought it. The session finally ended before 11:30. Ornes brought be out to McEwans; bathed; relaxed, lights out 12:38.

Sunday, 22 June 1969

Up at 8:30. Shaved, had breakfast; about 10 o’clock we left for the church—Mr. McEwan drove me. Didn’t sit in the service with anyone I knew; Bishop Mathew’s sermon was not terribly profound or original—but it was interesting, and not the least bit dull. After service went with Busseys and some others for lunch in Framingham at a shopping center. After lunch goofed off. Came back to church; I very much wanted to nap, but of course couldn’t. The ordination service was at 3:30—lasted until 5:00—it too was interesting. Who knows when I’ll go through the Elders process? After the service I joined the Ornes and we went to the Walnut High School for supper—which wasn’t too good. After supper we wandered back to the church. A suggested business meeting was not held, so I left, since I didn’t care to attend the retirement service; Kent Millard drove me to my room; relaxed, visited with the McEwans in the evening; lights out 11:15.

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/06/11/davids-diary-june-16-1969/

Gladys – June 13, 1969

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Letter transcription:

118 Juniper Court
West Lafayette, Ind. 47906
June 13, 1969

Dear David, Bonnie and Debbie,

I am sending some vitamins for Debbie. Dad brought some he acquired from a salesman yesterday.

Have been so busy since you left, I didn’t even get a card off to you for your anniversary. I presume you arrived back home safely – how would we know since we have not had a word from you. By the way, send me Patriquins’ address. I want to write her a note and there was not a return on her envelope and I don’t remember the name of the street or their house number.

We really had about as good a day as any so far for our celebration on the 25th. Last evening we had a hard rain – I was in the drug store at Wabash Village when it began to rain – without benefit of an umbrella. We had had the air conditioners on all day and this morning the temperature was 60°. I had to make a trip to town and wore a wool suit and light coat. I saw Sandy Corbin this morning – she brought me a box from LeBeau’s. He gave me quite a discount on the gift the people from Trinity are giving the Morin’s for their 25th wedding anniversary. Sandy is getting married July 5th. She is going into the Lutheran church and her boy – I should say fiancé is from Hobart, Indiana, and the wedding is going to be held in the Trinity Lutheran Church in Hobart. I asked her this morning if they had selected their silver and they have – Gorham sterling – the most expensive on can buy. Also very expensive china, but surprisingly, Fostoria crystal. I looked at sterling when we thought about buying something for the Morin anniversary and found that sterling costs almost four times as much as plated silver. I asked Sandy what they have in the their sterling and she said, “So far not one piece.” One place setting costs about $50.00 so I think I won’t get them a place setting. I will probably get them a piece or two or something in crystal.

The last time we were in Kentland we saw the Janssens and Garnette was telling Dad that LaVanche T. brought a young man home with her that did not suit her Dad and he said you either get rid of him, or I will cut you off without a penny – which he did because she wouldn’t. She is staying in Colorado Springs and has two jobs. That must be hard on someone like that who has always had the best of everything. I haven’t seen Dorothy for a long time, so have no idea how she is taking it. She was so wrapped up in their child, I can imagine it is hard on her.

Just had a letter from Dr. Hugh Lormor telling me the person to write to in Karachi for a look at things while we are there. He also said he was sure the McGraws would give us a good tour of Penang. He said he was interested to know that I am Bonnie McGraw’s mother-in-law.

Let us hear from you – we are interested to know how your plans are progressing. We met a man from Stuttgart one evening this week – he is visiting here with his son – and he has invited us to visit with him while there. I think we will spend more time in Germany than in Switzerland this time.

Love Mother

(over)

Debbie made quite a hit with the Kentland people. I gave a redwood planter to Dad for Father’s Day. He wanted to transplant the orange tree I had by the kitchen sink. He was going to put in something so had to give him his gift yesterday.

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/06/10/gladys-june-13-1969/