Hilda's Diary

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Hilda's Diary is a day-by-day "real time" recording of the 1897 diary of my maternal grandmother, Hilda Satterlund (later Hilda Satterlund Wenz). She was 18 at the time. The diary commenced on January 1 and ended abruptly on July 15. To begin reading, scroll down to the very bottom for the first entry.

Hilda was the daughter of Swedish immigrants, who came to the US around 1870. Her father, "King" John Satterlund, was a powerful figure in North Dakota, both in the state capital of Bismarck and in Washburn, the small town 40 miles north of Bismarck that he co-founded.

When the diary opens in January, Hilda is living with her two younger sisters, Lulu and Florence, in the family's Bismarck home. Meanwhile, her parents, John and Charlotte Satterlund, and her baby brother Floyd, are living in Washburn. Her father helps her to find a job as clerk in the state capitol; later she becomes a teacher in one-room school some distance from both Bismarck and Washburn.

The diary reveals very little of Hilda's interior life but day by day, her prosaic descriptions take one back in time to a person who begins to seem very real and very present.

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- Betsy

PS I still have a few more pictures and scans to add to Hilda's Diary, but the text is complete.
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"Books I Have Read"

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In one of the back pages of the diary, Hilda recorded the books she had read during the time she kept the diary.

Books I have read

Doris Fortune - Authors

Ourselves and Others - Trumbull

Les Miserables - Hugo

House of Seven Gables - Hawthorne

David Copperfield - Dickens

Aunt Jo's Scrap Bag - Alcott

Stories from Shakespeare - C & M Lamb

Esther - Carey

Delivered from Afar - Brown

A Shepherdess - Amelia Barr

Feet of Clay - " "

Wooed and Married - Carey

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Notes:

1. Doris's Fortune was written by Florence Warden. I cannot find the full book available online.

2. The link to Stories from Shakespeare may take you to a later edition than the one Hilda would have read. It seems to have been reprinted as recently as the 1930s.

3. A Border Shepherdess: A Romance is the full title of the book called "A Shepherdess" by Hilda.

Thurs. July 15, 1897 Wea. hot

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It is very nearly hot to-day. I did not have any ambition to do any thing (but, I seldom have). Read some and sewed a little. In the evening it got cooler. Went over to the ranch with Mr. and Mrs. B. Could not find the cattle and came home quite late. Mr. B. entertained us by talking of old times. “Fond memories of the past.”

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NOTE: This is the last entry in the diary. Did Hilda suddenly tire of writing and never go back? Did something upsetting happen and she couldn't bear to write anymore? Or did she lose the diary, only to find it again years later?

July 15, 2009: There is a book list in the Memoranda area and possibly another note or two. I will post those soon and will also return to post a few more scans of pages and photos at relevant parts of the blog. While it is nice no longer to have the daily obligation of posting an entry, I am very sad to say goodbye to my grandmother's 18-year-old self. I do have a set of her letters written to my grandfather when they were engaged but living in separate places... She was in her early 30s at that time. A new transcription project?

Betsy

Wed. July 14, 1897 Wea. warm

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Another very warm day. We did not get up before late and so had a late breakfast. Did up the morning work and took it easy. The folks came home about three, tired and hungry and we got them a lunch and then bathed. I quizzed them about home. Alta said they were all planning to go camping soon.
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Tues. July 13, 1897 Wea. cool

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George and I rode horse back over to Billow’s ranch and Geo. milked the cows, from there we went over to Mrs. Casper’s. I spent the afternoon there visiting. After supper Lizzie and I rode over to Mr. Reuter’s and visited and hour or so. Came home after dark but it was full moon and I enjoyed the ride ever so much.
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Mon. July 12 1897 Wea. warm

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All the folks except Kit and I and Chas. went to Washburn. Kit and I went over to Mr. Wismuller’s Had dinner and visited till about three o’clock. Came home and lounged for a while and when it got cooler did some baking but it was almost all a failure. Kitty and I sat up till about 12 waiting for the folks to come back.
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Sun. July 11, 1897 Wea. warm

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Some warmer to-day. We went to church and such a school-house to hold services and poor me had to do the singing which of course was simply grand! Kitty had dinner ready when we got back. Tried to read and I don’t know what all to pass the time away but it was hard work. This evening we got hold of some books and just read.
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Sat. July 10, 1897 Wea. cool

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Mrs. Miller, Kitty, and Alta started for Coal Harbor this morning to do some shopping. I kept house and took care of the baby.

The Rev. Mr. Hardenbrook was here for dinner and I received some of those “loving smiles of his. Just after we had our supper the folks came back all tired out. I got them their supper and they felt tired enough to retire.
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NOTE: Hilda left out the closing quotation marks.
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Fri. July 9, 1897 Wea. cool

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Quite pleasant – a cool wind blowing. Alta, Clifford, Kitty and I betook ourselves in a lumber wagon and went calling. Went over to Mr. Nygaard’s and had a good dinner. From there went and called on Countess Eisentraut and she entertained us in her own quaint way. Got home about six and found Mrs. Miller hard work ironing.
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Thurs. July 8, 1897 Wea. warm

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Felt quite well to-day but it was so very warm. I did intend to go visiting but on account of the heat I thought I had better lounge around at home. Mr. Miller came up from Washburn and reports all quite well. The folks were quite surprised about my runaway. Must get a move on me to-morrow and go out.
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NOTE: This entry “Mr. Miller came up from Washburn” indicates that Hilda is neither in Washburn nor in Bismarck. She seems to be staying with the Millers.

Wed. July 7, 1897 Wea. cool

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It stormed quite hard last night and could hardly sleep. Have been sick all day and have done nothing to-day but lay around. I feel better this evening and so I suppose I will be all right to-morrow. I want to do some visiting this week but have not got very far yet.

Went to bed quite early.
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Tues. July 6, 1897 Wea. warm

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Got up quite early to-day and again went over to the ranch and was all played out when we got back as it was so very warm but toward evening it got cooler and looks as if it will rain all evening. My eye is still quite swollen and gradually turning yellow. I don’t think I will go home till I am better looking.
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Mon. July 5, 1897 Wea. hot

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Got up at six o’clock and went over to the ranch with Kitty to let the stock loose. We drove around on the prairie and did not get home till 12:30 and tired and hungry as bears and relished the chicken dinner we had. Went over again in the evening and Alta went along. We went in bathing and was frightened and soon dressed.
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Sun. July 4, 1897 Wea. warm

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Sunday in the country is a long day without a doubt. We read, laid around, teased each other. My eye was swollen up so bad that I could hardly see and felt rather stiff too. Alta and I went for a walk and got some flowers. Most of the time we wandered around looking at each other and wondering what to do with ourselves.
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Note:
Hilda makes no mention of Independence Day.
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Sat. July 3, 1897 Wea. cool

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This has been quite an eventful day. Alta and I started for Brush Lake for the picnic this morning and went well till about eight miles away when part of harness came unfastened and away went the horse. Upset us and then broke loose from the rig. Mr. Billow was working at his ranch and seeing the horse came over and picked up things and
see memo

continued [on Memoranda page toward back of diary]
and sent us on to the picnic. There were only a few there – came home about 7 o’clock. The result of our runaway was a broken top, and my bruised face and side. Alta was all O.K.

Note
Brush Lake is about 30 miles northeast of Washburn.
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Fri. July 2, 1897 Wea. warm

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Stayed home all day and had a long nap this afternoon. I was hemstitching a handkerchief part of the time. This evening we sat around and talked.

I forgot about the picnic dinner we went to to-day at the School house. Had some splendid chicken &c. Quite a fine time. It was the last day.
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Thurs. July 1, 1897 Wea. cool

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This morning Kitty and I went over to Ros Nelson’s for some meat. Driving over this prairie does not agree with me and I was very nearly tired out when we got home. It is so very warm that it is hard work to live. It looked like rain but it cleared up again. Alta and I are thinking of going to Brush Lake the 3d.
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Wed. June 30, 1897 Wea. warm

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I got August’s horse and hitched up and came out here to Turtle Lake. I am going to stay too for a while and have a good visit [looks like “visek”]. I felt quite tired after the ride. Alta and I went after the cattle on horse back and I guess will feel stiff enough to-morrow.
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Tues. June 29, 1897 Wea. warm

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Washed some this morning and then talked about going out to Turtle Lake with Kitty. I tried to make out my school report but did not get very far before I gave it up.

This evening Kitty and I went for a walk and while sitting by the river we saw the Mandan go down.
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Mon. June 28, 1897 Wea. warm

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Court met to-day and of course that meant lots of work for us or for those at home. I went out and finished up my school. It was rather a tiresome day. Came home about six o’clock and found the house full of people and every one hard at work. I suppose I will have to to do the work in the morning.
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Sun. June 27, 1897 Wea. rain

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It was raining and gloomy all day. There were a lot of the people came in to attend Mrs. Samuelson’s funeral. Mr. Hardenbrook did not come down until quite late and so made it late for all. We had no S.S. on account of the funeral. The house is full of people for Court this week and don’t know where to put them all.
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Sat. June 26, 1897 Wea.

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[no entry]
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Fri. June 25, 1897 Wea.

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[no entry]
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Thurs. June 24, 1897 Wea.

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[no entry]
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Wed. June 23, 1897 Wea.

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[no entry]
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Tues. June 22, 1897 Wea. warm

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It was very warm. Tried to work but it was hard work as it was so warm. Bixby was sentenced to three years for jail breaking. That will save Kitty going into court. I want to go out with Kitty to-morrow if I can [rustle] an outfit to go in.
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Mon. June 21, 1897 Wea. warm

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Went out to school and finished up school. It was warm and dissagreeable and was glad when I was through. When I came home the house was full of people. Kitty was in town so I went down there and spent the evening. We went for a walk and had a good talk. I feel quite tired or lazy or something.
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NOTE: Hilda misspelled the word disagreeable.
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Sun. June 20, 1897 Wea. warm

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Baardson’s were invited over to Holtan’s for dinner and I took Annie over. I got home about two o’clock and felt cross. Went to S.S. in the afternoon and then came home and loafed around. It was very quiet and did not know what to do with ourselves. In the evening went to church and after wards took a walk. Mr. Clemmer, our conductor, came to-night.
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Sat. June 19, 1897 Wea. warm

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Did not get up till about nine o’clock. Got home about eleven and found the folks in the midst of house cleaning. I went to work, beat some carpets and puttered around. Mary Baardson is sewing for Mrs. A [H? W?] and I took her home to-night. We had a great chat going out to-night. Did not go to bed until late.
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Fri. June 18, 1897 Wea. cool

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Last night I went to Holtan’s and got a team to take us to the picnic. There was quite a crowd of us in the woods. It rained a little but just enough to make it cool. We played games &c. Rode to the school house with the children and came back and stayed all night at Mrs. Anderson’s. I feel most awfully tired. I jumped rope and played like a girl of 9 years old instead of 19.
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NOTE:
Hilda was born on Sept 18, 1878, so she would not have turned 19 until September of 1897. It is unclear why she would have written "19" -- did she feel 19 already and just made a mistake in what she wrote? Did she have to pretend to be 19 in order to teach? Did the 1878 birthday, documented in so many places, get "changed" for some reason?

Thurs. June 17, 1897 Wea. cool

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It was nice and cool to-day as a result of last night’s rain. School work went so much better. We – that is five schools – are going to have a picnic to-morrow and the children seemed quite pleased over it. The worst of it is some have the measles. Was kind of lonely this evening – strolled around and tried to amuse my self by sight seeing.
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Wed. June 16, 1897 Wea. warm

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Had eight pupils and to break the regular routine I had three callers Annie Baardson, Elsie Holtan, and Cora Peterson. Cora’s mother had twins – a boy and a girl – Cora seems to be quite well pleased over the event.

Finished my book and think it was quite good.

Mrs. Sheldon and Mrs. Olson were here for supper. We had a fine shower.
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Tues. June 15, 1897 Wea. [illegible]

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This was the dullest day I have had without exception. Only four pupils, warm and I felt so sleepy that it was dangerous for me to sit still very long. In the evening after school went up to Ben Johnson’s and the children were playing outside. Went from there to Herred’s. Nettie has been quite sick and Willie is sick now. Very nearly read all of Feet of Clay by Amelia Barr.
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NOTE
Hilda had recently read another book by Amelia Barr.
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Mon. June 14, 1897 Wea. warm

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This was a dreamy day in the school room. Only eight pupils and very warm. No one felt like studying. Flo came out with me but tired of it in the morning and she went down to Sheldon’s and spent the afternoon coming for me in the evening. Took her to town and came home or as far as Sheldon’s. Staid there all night and talked till about 11 PM.
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Sun. June 13, 1897 Wea. warm

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It was very nearly as warm to-day. Sat and gossiped most all morning with the exception of studying my S.S. lesson. Not very many at S.S. Flo and Willie had a good time this afternoon. Mrs. W. and I sat on the porch and talked and drank lemonade. In the evening went to church but could not keep my mind on the minister – have lost faith in him. Went for a nice moonlight stroll.
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Sat. June 12, 1897 Wea. warm

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This I believe is the warmest day we have had this summer. I could not do a thing. Florence came home this evening and the rest of the family will be home Thursday. Mrs. Welch, Flo and I took a walk to the river and tried to get cooled off some. Read quite a bit after I went to bed.
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Fri. June 11, 1897 Wea. windy

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The wind blew quite hard and it was real warm. Some of the children looked as though they were going to soon have the measles. Went home this evening and worked in the office. We were in a great hurry to get through as the band boys had another social. My shadow was sold this time for $1.85 to Hank Richards. Got home about twelve.
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Thurs. June 10, 1897 Wea. nice

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After school I went over to Baardson’s. Annie was washing but soon stopped when I came. Had supper there and it tasted good as I was hungry. After supper we drove down to Mrs. Peterson’s. They have their house all painted and quite cozy. They were all sick with the measles and poor Cora had her hands full. Enjoyed my ride home in the even.
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Wed. June 9, 1897 Wea. [illegible]

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Went to school and went through the same old routine of work. Mrs. A. went to a gathering at the minister’s and so she left a nice lunch for me on the table. It commenced to rain shortly after I got back. It rained quite hard. I read till I didn’t have any thing else to read and then I took a walk over the prairie.
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Tues. June 8, 1897 Wea. nice

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It was quite pleasant to-day. Read this evening and wrote some. After wards I took a promenade around. It seems kind of lonely now when I haven’t any studying to do. It seems queer, I keep thinking I have something I ought to do. I am very nearly out of reading matter too and don’t know what I will do for the rest of the week hardly.
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Mon. June 7, 1897 Wea. nice

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Drove to school this morning. Papa gave me an old lame pony. The one I had last week was kind of a run-a-way but this not by any means. Papa passed by the school house just as school was out. I very nearly read all of A Sheperdess by Amelia Barr, it was real good. Took a little walk after I was through and then went to bed.
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NOTES:
Hilda misspelled "shepherdess" without the "h." Full title of the book: A Border Shepherdess: A Romance of Eskdale (1887). Read about Amelia Barr.
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Sun. June 6, 1897 Wea. cool

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It does not seem as though we have had any summer yet. There has hardly been a day yet but we feel comfortable with wraps on. Read some this morning. Went to S.S. and then went to see Mrs. Wallin but she was not at home. Wrote a letter to the folks. Went to the church in the evening. Poor me has to lead the singing.
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Sat. June 5, 1897 Wea. nice

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Made my bed and picked up a little and played lazy the rest of the morning. In the afternoon went to Teachers’ Reading Circle. Got up a program for Institute and got a dialogue and your humble servant will take part and that saves me from taking any other part.
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Fri. June 4, 1897 Wea. nice

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Feel some better, school work went better any way. Drove up to Mr. Johnson’s with my warrant to get signed and then to Sheldon’s and talked picnic. From there I went to Mr. Berquam’s and got my warrant cashed. I drove over to Mrs. A’s and had supper then drove into town. Got my certificate and am ashamed of the grade. Worked in the office.
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Thurs. June 3, 1897 Wea. cool

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I got up with a bad head ache and was in hopes the cool air would make me feel better which it did for the time I was out but I felt quite bad in the school house. I hurried home and read and finished my book and repeated last nights remedy and hope it will have better results so I won’t be so cross.
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Wed. June 2, 1897 Wea. rain

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It poured down again this morning when I went to school. This is something badly needed by the farmers. The crops are looking very poor but I hope this will help matters out some. Came down to Mrs. Anderson’s to-night. Read quite a while in Elsie Dinsmore then warmed my self – drank a cup of hot water and went to bed.
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NOTE
Read about Elsie Dinsmore.
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Tues. June 1, 1897 Wea. rain

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Drove out this morning to my school. It was quite nice then but toward noon it began to rain and kept it up in good style. I took Johnson’s children home and then Berquam’s. When I left there I had to face the rain and I guess it will be funny if I don’t have a cold or probably will be sick. I stopped at Olson’s as I did not want to unhitch.
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Mon. May 31, 1897 Wea. windy

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It was quite nice early this morning. We went out to the grave yard and oh! how the wind commenced to blow and dust fly. I waited on the table for dinner and then went down to the ware house and saw some one peeping over the crowd. Had a short program in the Court House but it was not much good. Most of them went home toward evening and it seemed good to have quiet again.
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Sun. May 30, 1897 Wea. windy

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We did not get up before late. Spent a kind of quiet day. Annie baked very nearly all day getting things ready for to-morrow as that will be Memorial Day. Mrs. Hultberg came up and we all sat on the porch and listened to the band play. Waited or helped the girls at supper time as there were quite a few here.
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Sat. May 29, 1897 Wea. windy

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I did not get through until about five o’clock and felt quite tired. Henry said I got 75% in Arithmetic and I feel quite elated over the fact. I tremble for Cora. There were a lot of us in the sitting room and we talked and had a merry time. Kitty is still here as her baby has the measles. We had one of our old time talks.
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Fri. May 28, 1897 Wea. cool

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Quite cool to-day. We went tremblingly into the Court House this morning. All I could manage in the morning was Arithmetic and I-I th-think I squeezed through. The examination does not seem so very hard. I made a regular “dunce” of my self in the printing office to-night – but crying is a woman’s failing any way so I suppose it could not be helped.
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Thurs. May 27, 1897 Wea. windy

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Drove into town this evening too. There were women folks all over and they pretty nearly drove me crazy. Mrs. Welch, Miss Edburg, and I went up to the school house and worked cube root and talked history till we thought we knew it all – I don’t think. Had lots of fun in the evening teasing Henry about the questions.
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Wed. May 26, 1897 Wea. windy

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Blowing as usual. After school I drove into town. Got in shortly after five. Old Billie [Biller? Billa?] fairly flew. I heard Kitty and her cousin was down at Mrs. Hultberg’s and went down and saw them.

In the evening I worked Arithmetic until eleven o’clock. I don’t know how I can ever repay Mrs. Welch for helping me. If ever a woman had done good in a town she has and she commands everyone’s respect too.
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Tues. May 25, 1897 Wea. warm

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It was warmer than usual. Being invited to supper at Mrs. Olson’s of course spent most of the evening there. Talked quite a bit with Mr. Anderson. Helped Ralph to ride his wheel and got along splendidly. Had a fine supper. Talked a while after supper and then came home and studied most of the evening. I bothered my brain about Arithmetic this evening.
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Mon. May 24, 1897 Wea. windy

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It was very windy and cold. Had a fire in the school house. I felt so tired this evening that I went and laid down and had a nap. I slept about two hours. Then had my supper and went to study. Studied Civil Government and Arithmetic. Examination next Friday – time is passing fast and the more I study the less it seems I know. But I will have to get through some way.
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Sun. May 23, 1897 Wea. windy

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Got up at seven and did not go to bed before two o’clock and was just played out. Waited on about 60 for breakfast alone and about 10 o’clock I went to bed and slept about three hours. In the afternoon I went to S.S. and in the evening went to church and heard our new minister. I think we will like him.

Spelker was at church but you never would have thought he had been a minister.
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Sat. May 22, 1897 Wea. wind

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Got up at six and studied for a short time then went to work. Forty six men came from Bismarck to start a K. of P. lodge. Had four tables set for supper. Hilda Sheldon helped wait on the table. Set for 46 for midnight supps and had to borrow dishes all over town to get enough. The wind blew a perfect gale and [three? those?] men that drove up were pretty well tired out – also horses.
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Fri. May 21, 1897 Wea. windy

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Of course taught and in the evening when I got back to Mrs. A’s I packed and piled off for Washburn. The wind blew so hard I stopped at Sheldon’s over night. (I guess I am absent-minded) for a short time. Did not have to go to the office to-night and tried to study but Cora came and she hindered more than she did good. However finished the history and am very glad of it.
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Thurs. May 20, 1897 Wea. cool

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Quite cool all day. No mosquitoes around. I have studied quite a bit. I did expect to stay out here till Sat. morning but papa told Mrs. A. (she was in town) that there would be a lot at the house & I must be home. Of course work, work and I ought to work on exams.

I had to laugh at Mrs. A. scolding the cows. I wish I could have had a phonograph and taken it down.
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Wed. May 19, 1897 Wea. fog

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There was a very heavy fog this evening but it cleared away by noon and was quite pleasant. I thought probably we would have some visitors this P.M. so had a sort of house cleaning at school but none came. Olson and Mr. Anderson came over for supper. Mrs. A. had a big chicken supper. Of course I had to entertain Mr. A. and Mrs. A. thought surely I had made a hit and is trying to encourage it.
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NOTE:
Mr. Anderson may be Mrs. Olson's brother. Possibly he could be Mrs. Anderson's brother, if Anderson was her maiden name as well as her married name. Or he could be Mrs. Anderson's brother-in-law. In an earlier entry, Hilda noted that Mrs. Anderson had invited Mrs. Olson and "her brother"; the pronoun referent was unclear.
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Tues. May 18, 1897 Wea. rain

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It was raining and quite cold when I went to school. Mrs. A. had me invite Olson’s over for supper to-morrow night! That will mean a night off from study and I can not stand that very well now. Studied about four hours this evening. I sat out side for a while studying but the mosquitos were so bad they drove me into the house. It was quite pleasant though this eve.
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Mon. May 17, 1897 Wea. very warm

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Got up before six and got ready for my trip to school. It has seemed a very long day. In the afternoon and the evening it has blowed, thundered and tried to rain. I studied quite a bit but do not feel I accomplished much as I felt so restless. I guess mostly on account of the weather it looked so bad sometimes.

Mrs. A. is going to give supper for Mrs. Olson and her brother Wednesday evening so that will spoil one evenings study.
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Sun. May 16, 1897 Wea. warm

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It was quite warm to-day. Wrote a letter to the folks and picked up some around. Talked with Mrs. W. the rest of the morning. In the afternoon went to S.S. and then went up stairs and sat on the porch and listened to the band play. In the evening we went down to the river with Mr. R. and then we had a boat ride. I rowed down to the island with Mr. R. and Mrs. W. rowed back. We enjoyed it ever so much. [Hilda added a few lines in shorthand]
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Sat. May 15, 1897 Wea. nice

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Got up quite early and talked fire till you could not rest. Kitty went home this morning. Mr. Spelker came up this evening.

I spent seven hours at hard, hard study. Mrs. Welch helped me and we had hard work to keep from talking.

In the evening, Mrs. W. and I went down to the river for a walk. Mr. Richards was there and he went up after the oars but Nils Larson and Gaylord had got them before and went for a ride. Never even asked us – but they new better!

Note: Hilda wrote "new" instead of "knew."
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Fri. May 14, 1897 Wea. nice

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Quite comfortable. Finished up my first month of teaching and I like it splendidly. I believe that I would like it better than office work. Went home this evening and on the way down I saw Mr. Sheldon told me that Bixby had tried to enter Spelker’s house but Kitty and Mrs. S. scared him away with an empty revolver. At 3 he came again and set fire to the house and they pulled things out and yelled fire but they did not get any one down till it was nearly out.
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Thurs. May 13, 1897 Wea. very cold

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This is the coldest spring! The 13th of May and I have my winter under wear and heavy dress on with jacket and fascinator and still very nearly froze on my way to school. Ralph’s brother came up to visit and brought a wheel with him for R. and he was a happy boy. Mrs. Olson came out and gave me a box of straw berries so I had simply a grand treat!

It is extremely cold this evening.
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Wed. May 12, 1897 Wea. cold

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It was somewhat better to-day, it did not rain but it was cold. Ralph very nearly froze. Mrs. A. had such a good dinner to-day that I made a “pig” of myself and do not feel any too well. Last night Ralph came after we had gone to bed to borrow kerosene and he brought a letter for me from Lulu and such a funny letter. Poor Flo I guess had to give up Frankie dear for Cecil at last.
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Tues. May 11, 1897 Wea. rain

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It has been stormy most all day. Just after I got home this evening there was quite a little shower came and did not have time to unhitch. Tried to study but somehow could not get mind down to it so gave up and took a little walk. There is not an english paper or book hardly on the place so if I tire of studying I have to content myself with star gazing and dreaming.
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Mon. May 10, 1897 Wea. bad

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Got up about 6:30 and got ready for school. My mackintosh came in very handy as it rained and blew so hard that I could hardly stay in the buggy. I was pretty well chilled through by the time I got home or to the school-house. School went off all right. This is my fourth week. Mrs. Olson was here to get Mrs. A’s cattle for the herd and I ran like a good fellow helping to get them to-gether.
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Sun. May 9, 1897 Wea. nice

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This has been a lovely day. I wrote a letter to mama in answer to one I received this morning. Floyd has the measles and this is the most “measley” town that at present – everyone has them. Went to S.S. I have a class of boys just now. As Ella has the measles I had to wait on the table. In the evening went down and Kit and I had a good long walk and a good long, old-fashioned chat as in the happy days of yore. Hee hee I found out something.
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NOTE:
Hilda seems to be at her parents' home in Washburn this weekend. On April 25th, Hilda's mother had left Washburn and gone to Bismarck, presumably to stay with Lulu and Florence. Presumably she is still in Bismarck as of May 9 and had sent a letter to Hilda in Washburn.

Sat. May 8, 1897 Wea. blow

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The wind blew very hard to-day – went down to see Kit and could hardly get back. Mrs. Welch tried to help me with my studies this afternoon but did not accomplish much as we would go talking about something else. Cora came in and had supper with me. Henry was in too and of course we tried to be very entertaining as it will be for our own good. Went over to Mr. Haugberg’s store and blew myself in on a new red tie.
-
NOTE:
Re "Haugberg" - Earlier in the diary (May 2), Hilda mentions a "Mr. Haughery." Could the "Haugberg" written here actually be "Haughery"? Both names are real names, and in a Google search, both names can be found in North Dakota.

Fri. May 7, 1897 Wea. fair

-
To-day being Arbor Day it was rather a busy day for school marms. This one taught in the morning and in the afternoon each of us took a “farm” and planted all sorts of things. It blew quite hard so I was just black with dust and was glad when got to Mrs. A’s and got some of the dirt off. Went home. Kitty was down at Spelker’s and went down and had a visit with her. The boy is quite large. Worked in the office. Got a new mackintosh but do not like it.
-

Thurs. May 6, 1897 Wea. nice

--
Quite cool this morning but warmer toward P.M. Studied very nearly all evening on History with exception of taking a little horse back ride after the capital – cattle I mean – I must be absent minded. Oh! yes, Mrs. A. and I sawed some more wood.

Have been reading over some that I have written and parts seem rather silly – what will it be a few years from now? That is a question.
--

Wed. May 5, 1897 Wea. cooler

-
To-day I put on a light waiste and pretty near froze – such is Dakota weather. I am trying to teach my kids something for Arbor Day which is Friday, and we intend planting some tree seeds &c, I washed my head and also washed the dishes as Mrs. A. went to Washburn and so spent the evening alone. Did not study as much as usual.
-

-

Tues. May 4, 1897 Wea. warm

-
Having a heavy dress and it being a warm day, I felt rather uncomfortable but as soon as I got here at Mrs. A’s I changed my attire. Being only “women folks” here we two “old” cronies had to go out and saw wood but it was not very hard – rather do that than be bothered with those “pesky men” [Hilda added a few lines in shorthand.]
-

Mon. May 3, 1897 Wea. warm

-
It has been very warm to-day at least it seemed so to me. I felt so tired when I got here to Mrs. A’s I just took a lunch and laid down and had a nap and felt better. After supper I studied and took a little walk. It seems so queer to be out alone here on the prairie with only one woman. [Hilda added a few lines in shorthand.]
-

Sun. May 2, 1897 Wea. nice

-
Wrote some letters and talked over last nights entertainment. Mr. Haughery bought my shadow for 60¢. Mr. Wahl got Mrs. W. and paid 1.80. August and Mrs. W. have been laughing so knowingly at me all day but cannot see what it can be exactly. Went to S.S. in the evening went down to the river. Dr. came and took us for a boat ride. [Hilda added a few lines in shorthand.]

NOTE:
Re "Haughery" - Later in the diary (May 8), Hilda mentions "Mr. Haugberg's store." Could the "Haughery" written here actually be "Haugberg"? Both names are real names, and in a Google search, both names can be found in North Dakota.
-

Sat. May 1, 1897 Wea. nice

-
This was one of the nicest days and I have been quite busy. Cleaned up a little in the morning. In the afternoon studied and then Mrs. W. and I went up to Mrs. Mann’s [Morris’s?] and got cream and freezer – got the boys to-gether and we made three freezers of ice cream and expect to have a good time. [Hilda added a few lines in shorthand.]
-

Fri. April 30, 1897 Wea. nice

-
This has been the shortest school week. I could hardly realize that it was Friday. I got home about six and found that papa had gone for lumber. I had a long chat with Mrs. Welch – I like her ever so much. I worked over in the office until 11 o’clock. There are quite a few people at the house – several travel men – one Mr. Rathman – ahem!
-

Thurs. April 29, 1897 Wea. windy

-
It was not blowing quite so hard to-day. Mr. Olson went to town and I was in hopes of getting some mail but I got none. He said Papa had gone to Bismarck and I have been wondering what for and when I get the least thing to worry over I most certainly do so.
-

Wed. April 28, 1897 Wea. blow

-
I wonder when this wind will let up. It seems to last forever. The farmers are all busy putting in their crops.

Felt tired this evening but school work went all right. I never feel much like studying in the evenings but that is all there is to do and must do something and when I think of exam it gives me the “shivers.”
-

Tues. April 27, 1897 Wea. wind

-
Still blowing! and came home fairly sailing. I guess my big sleeves make very good sails as Billie seemed to travel faster. I do not feel very well this evening but crammed some Physiology and Civil Government into this poor cranium of mine. As the wind was real cold this evening, I took Billie into the barn and after my walk I feel better.
-

Mon. April 26, 1897 Wea. wind

-
Got up at six and started out for my school. Got there in time. Came home and it was pretty hard work as the wind was blowing a perfect gale. I was pretty hungry and Mrs. A. had a good supper prepared and I partook freely. Studied for quite a while and tiring of that read stories for a change – of course love stories.
-

Sun. April 25, 1897 Wea. nice

-
Got up at six and wrote that letter over about 20 times before I got it correct. Mama went to Bismarck this morning with Mr. Wallin. Mr. and Mrs. Nygaard came down from the Lake. In the afternoon went to S.S. The wind blew so hard that we could hardly get up to the school-house. There are about 40 that attend.
-

Sat. April 24, 1897 Wea. nice

-
Papa has got a typewriter and after going over some of my studies with Mrs. Welch I got at that and wrote letters for papa. I worked on one, which had to be absolutely correct until 10:30 and then I got so nervous writing it over and over I gave it up and so I suppose I will have to get up at about six in the morning and finish.
-

Fri. April 23, 1897 Wea. rain

-
A lovely morning. Everything seemed fresh and nice. Crocuses every where to be seen. I finished my first week of school and have come to the conclusion that I will like it very much – if only I can keep on. I drove home but stopped at Mr. Sheldon’s a while and found Mama there. Got home about seven o’clock and first thing I had to do was to go over to the office and work until 10 P.M.
-

Thurs. April 22, 1897 Wea. rain

-
Still raining this morning and cold. In the afternoon the wind commenced blowing hard. When I got home Mrs. A. had a big dinner ready for me and I ate and was merry. After supper studied to my heart’s content in quietude. I hope it will not rain to-morrow as I want to go home and suppose there will be some letters there for me.
-

Wed. April 21, 1897 Wea. rain

-
For a change we had some rain and it made it kind of bad to have to go out and ride. It cleared up some by this afternoon and when I came back Mama and Mrs. A. went to town. Mrs. A. got home about nine o’clock and I went out and helped her unhitch. I studied most all evening and will have to go to bed early as I have to be up in good season in the morning.
-

Tues. April 20, 1897 Wea. nice

-
Last night my beautiful plug slipped the rope over its head and I guess went home. Had to walk to John Olson’s - a mile – and Ralph drove me to the schoolhouse. Got through school all right but in the morning one of the girls brought me a letter from her mama giving me some advice and slandering some of the children whose parents I suppose she is prejudiced against. Ralph went into town and got me a pony.
-
NOTES
1. It may have been Joe Olson rather than John Olson - hard to read.
2. In a hidden pocket of her diary, Hilda saved two unpleasant notes from the interfering parent.
3. See an entry in Betsy's Boxes for information and images about the school and a scan of the note from the advising mama.

Mon. April 19, 1897 Wea. nice

-
Eastern people would certainly have thought we lived on the frontier if they had slept in the hotel last night. Four or five drunken cowboys came upstairs about midnight and serenaded the house by playing the guitar and singing (?). Of course felt very much rested. Started out for my school at 7 a.m. Mama rode with me to Mrs. A’s. My rig was a buggy minus a back and dash board & a plug about 17 years of age or probably sweet 16. I had 11 scholars. Real nice school & nice teacher.
-
NOTES
1. Did the Satterlunds own the hotel?
2. The "(?)" was Hilda's.
3. Mrs. A. = Mrs. Anderson, with whom Hilda would stay while teaching.
4. Per Merriam-Webster dictionary, a plug is " an inferior often aged or unsound horse."
-

Sun. April 18, 1897 Wea. windy

-
Last night about midnight it commenced to blow very hard and almost thought it would blow the addition that is being builded to the house away. I feel the effects of my horse back ride and stir around rather slowly. Went to S.S. and it being Easter Sunday we all received eggs. Packed some things that I intend to take out to my school. Am going to stay at Mrs. Anderson’s.
-

Sat. April 17, 1897 Wea. nice

-
Thinking it was best to get my contract at once, I asked for a rig. The horse I was to have was out on the prairie so papa saddled up a cayuse and away I went. I rode for about ten miles but could not find them. Rested a while at Sheldon’s and got home about 2 o’clock and felt tired. Saw Miss Edberg and Fleda Sandy – both school marms and both freckled & I will soon be ditto.
-
NOTE:
1. Per Encyclopaedia Britannica, a cayuse is a "North American wild or Indian-tamed horse, descended from horses taken to the New World by the Spanish in the 16th century. The name comes from that of an Indian tribe of eastern Washington and Oregon that was known for the small horses it bred."

2. To see a copy of Hilda's temporary teaching permit, visit this entry in Betsy's Boxes.
-

Fri. April 16, 1897 Wea. nice

-
Mrs. Welch invited me up to visit the school and as I wanted to learn a little went up in the morning and afternoon. She has a large school. Hilda Sheldon came up with me in the P.M. Cora came in from her school. She says she has 17 pupils. Mrs. W. suggested getting up a social and so spent the evening talking it over.
-

Thurs. April 15, 1897 Wea. nice

-
We intended to get up early but did not – it was 7:15 before anyone got up. Dr. came 8:30. It was real pleasant riding in the morning but toward afternoon it got windy. The roads were pretty bad and the 40 miles always seem so long. Got home about 7 o’clock. Found the folks all well. Floyd came and met me on the road and was glad to see his “big sister.”
-
NOTES
1. Hilda was heading to Washburn, 40 miles north of Bismarck, where her parents and younger brother Floyd lived. Apparently, younger sisters Florence (~14) and Lulu (~16) stayed in Bismarck. It is not clear whether they were left to supervise themselves. Floyd would have been about 5.
2. Dr. was Dr. Forbes, apparently of Washburn, who gave Hilda a ride up to Washburn. Not sure what type of carriage they would have ridden in.
3. Hilda was getting ready to teach at a school near Washburn.
-

Wed. April 14, 1897 Wea. nice

-
Packed some things. Studied some and baked three pies so the kids would have something to eat. Florence Gage came over and spent part of the afternoon. She wanted to give Flo or Lulu music lessons but the girls did not want to. The girls went to prayer meeting or were supposed to but Flo S. & Flo G. took a stroll with some young gent. (?)
-
NOTE:
The question mark was written by Hilda.
-

Tues. April 13, 1897 Wea. nice

-
We were surprised to see the sun shining again this morning. Studied quite a while this morning and after noon. This evening Dr. Forbes came down so I will be going up with him Thursday morning and to-morrow I will have to pack my “goods and chattles.” The girls went down to a business meeting of their Y. They expect to soon give a reception.
-
NOTES:
1. "chattles" was Hilda's spelling.
2. "Y" may refer to YPSCE, Young People's Society of Christian Endeavour.
-

Mon. April 12, 1897 Wea. rain

-
Still raining and cold. I baked bread and studied history till I have the French and Indian wars down “pat.” In the evening I received a letter from Mama and one from the “girls.” Amelia said that Hattie had a baby so that it was “Aunt Laura” now and hosts of others have additions. Also Aunt has been sick and Eli has the blues. I wish I was there to give him a good slap.
-
-

Sun. April 11, 1897 Wea. rain

-
Quite a change in the weather this morning. Raining quite hard and regular April weather. Lulu and Johnnie went to church. Florence and I did house work and read “Pizzaro’s, Adventures & Conquests.” It was quite interesting. I stayed home in the evening also. The girls and Johnnie went Y.P.S.C.E. and church and old maid as I am, I hugged the stove and read.
-
NOTE
Y.P.S.C.E. = Young People's Society of Christian Endeavour.

From Wikipedia:

The Young People's Society of Christian Endeavour was a nondenominational evangelical society founded in Portland, Maine, in 1881 by Francis Edward Clark. Its professed object was "to promote an earnest Christian life among its members, to increase their mutual acquaintanceship, and to make them more useful in the service of God."

The First Christian Endeavor Society was formed in 1881 in Portland, Maine, under the direction of Francis E. Clark. The society was formed in order to bring youth to accept Christ and work for Him. The youth were shown that the church cared for young people. The Society enabled youth to express themselves while participating in useful tasks. It stressed a devoted, evangelistic spirit that was expressed in the Christian Endeavor pledge. Christian Endeavor created publications for youth, devised youth programs, and sponsored events. Christian Endeavor was maintained through private donations that often came from youth.

… The organization expanded rapidly as it grew from a single church society into a world movement. By the end of the 19th century, Christian Endeavor was in the headlines of many major American newspapers. Christian Endeavor took up many causes without apology; it was influential in supporting the temperance movement in the 1920s, as CE stood for family values. Christian Endeavor began extensive publications in 1886. World conventions were held to address major issues. In 1887, Francis E. Clark was elected president of the United Society, and in 1895 he was chosen as the World President of the Christian Endeavor Union. The admirable Clark held this position until his death in 1927.
-

Sat. April 10, 1897 Wea. beautiful

-
Snow banks are disappearing fast. A pleasant day for Cora to start out in. She got started about 11 o’clock. We cleaned from top to bottom of the house. I went down town this P.M. with Flo G., saw Mrs. Baardson and went with her and called on Adeline at the Hospital and on Mrs. Smith. Went to Mrs. B’s and had supper and chatted most all evening. Went to bed quite early for a change.
-

Fri. April 9, 1897 Wea. nice

-
Cora was making preparations to go home. Her uncle came down and Ross and Louie are going up with her. Next it will be poor me going up to that wilderness and try to pound some sense into those “country jakes” but I guess this is not a very appropriate way for a would be school marm to talk.

Florence Gage came over and spent the evening, sang &c.
-

Thurs. April 8, 1897 Wea. nice

--
Cora of course had to go to the dentist. That is getting to be a rather monstrous business. In the evening we tried to study some but we got into a rumpus which ended up in Florence having a good cry and did not accomplish much in that line, I mean studying but I hope I did in the other. I baked bread and it seems that in never get any that is decent. I pity my hub [a few words in shorthand].
--
NOTE
"Hub" may be "husband" - she pities her poor husband to be because of her inferior breadbaking skills!

Wed. April 7, 1897 Wea. windy

-
Lulu came home after school with Eleanor and said that it was reported Mandan was flooded so we all went down below the depot but the water had gone down some so came home. I had packed most of my things and got a letter from mama not to take the stage but that a tram would be down after me. I wonder when they will come and I hope soon
-

Tues. April 6, 1897 Wea. Fine

-
Got up quite early. Cora did up all the work and I went to the dentist. It was lovely to take the walk. It seemed as though spring was really here to stay. Dr. filled four teeth and polished all and did not mind it much. but the bill I did – only $8. It is Lu’s turn next but I guess she will have to wait a while. Lu went to the river again.
-

Mon. April 5, 1897 Wea. nice

-
Another beautiful day. The ice broke in the river and gorged toward evening and I suppose Mandan will be right in the swim right now. Lulu and Eleanor Logan walked down to the river and were all tired out. They said there were crowds of people down looking on.

To-morrow I have to go to the dentist but thank goodness I haven’t very many to fill.

Cora is having a hard time with her teeth.
-

Sun. April 4, 1897 Wea. lovely

-
Got up too late to go to church which of course is nothing new. Read most all day. In the evening We all went to church but there was a poor congregation and a poor service.

I suppose a week from to-day I will be at home preparing to go to my school. If I don’t pass I don’t know what I will do. I keep worrying about it all the time, and most certainly that will not help matters much.
-

Sat. April 3, 1897 Wea. con

-
It has been kind of conglomeration of weather – snowing, raining &c. I made a general over hauling in the kitchen and pantry and removed some dirt and scrubbed quite a bit. In the afternoon fooled around but felt quite ambitious this evening and studied but Cora had the tooth ache so did not want to work much. Stayed up so late it will be hard work to get up to-morrow.
-

Fri. April 2, 1897 Wea. [illegible longish word]

-
Were right in the midst of studying to-day but had one interruption, Mr. Baardson came over with some new pictures. I bought a splendid one of the bridge. In the afternoon we went down town – Cora had some teeth filled and I sat and read most all of the time. I hope my teeth will not be as painful as hers.

The snow is disappearing quite rapidly and I do not think that any one will be sorry as it is one of the worst winters for 12 years.
-

Thurs. April 1, 1897 Wea. cloudy

-
To day being April Fool’s day we of course were prepared for almost anything. First about six Cora came thundering down stairs and said it was eight and it did not work. We got a good joke on Florence – wrote a letter in Miles’ name for her to meet him on the Pres. corner with Ella. At 7:30 Flo and Ella were off and just as they were looking for the boys, Lu, Jack, I yelled “April fool.” Lu gave us cotton stuffed dough nuts.
-
NOTE
Not sure what "Pres. corner" is.

Wed. Mar. 31 1897 Wea. cloudy

-
The girls went to prayer meeting and seemed to have an awfully funny time. Cora and I were down town in the afternoon and had some boys dodying the corners, it was quite amusing. I wrote some letters on the typewriter for papa and sent them up but it is so hard telling when he will get them as the roads are the same as ever.
-
NOTE
"Dodying" cannot possibly be the right word, but that's what it looks like.
-

Tues. Mar. 30 1897 Wea. cloudy

-
Cora is planning to go home as soon as the roads are better for at present the mails can not go up or down on account of the water under the snow. We are trying to do some studying. In the evening Lulu powdered, penciled or and dressed up in tights and paraded around the streets, I mean the house. She looked real sweet and of course the rest of us kids had to go through the same except the tights.
-
NOTE
Hilda seems to have left out a word. She seems to have written "powdered, penciled or and." Not sure whom Lulu was dressing up as.
-

Mon. Mar. 29, 1897 Wea. nice

-
The snow has commenced to melt now and hope it will keep on. I heard a meadow lark and some crows. “Puttered” around with house work most all day. In the evening Cora and I put in good four hours in grammar and I am sure we both learned a lot.

Flo and cousin Jack went down town. Flo met Burt Bogru (Lu’s old fel” and he was drunk, he gave her quite a scare.
-
NOTES
1. "Bogru" seems unlikely to be the actual name but that's what the word looks like as Hilda has written it.
2. The mixed up punctuation (parenthesis, quotation mark) are Hilda's.
-

Sun. Mar. 28, 1897 Wea. nice

-
The girls went to church and S.S. Johnnie came down yesterday and he is dreadfully tanned. It seemed to me that I cooked most all day. I dictated and Cora wrote a “cracker jack” letter. I wonder what the answer will be. In the evening went to church but it was awfully poor. Flo came home with some one but would not tell who it was.
-

Sat. Mar. 27, 1897 Wea. lovely

-
Another ideal day overhead but very bad underfoot. Washed. Cora and I went down town in the afternoon. Got the mail and Cora got a letter which I made her let me see and I had to console the poor girl. Did some shopping for the Washburn folks and went up to Baardson’s. Saw proof of the Washburn school. Floyd looks awfully sweet and more than ever like Arthur.

C & I debated in the evening about the letter.
-
NOTES

1. Did Cora receive a letter from Rovig?

2. "The Washburn folks" would be Hilda's parents, John & Charlotte Satterlund, and their youngest child, Floyd (Hilda's little brother).

3. "Proof" would refer to a photo, apparently of children at the school in Washburn. Arthur was Hilda's brother who died not long before Floyd was born.
-

Fri. Mar. 26, 1897 Wea. nice

-
When the girls came home from school they said they had a good time at the debate. Cora made a break and made her “maiden speech.”

This evening we went to a social given by the Baptists. Did not have very much fun as I was almost a stranger. Bought a doll for 15⊄ - a little beauty. Almost all the boys bought one. Cora was sorry she did not go as Rovig flirted with the girls rather freely.
-
NOTE
1. Was Cora still in school? I had thought not, since she seems to be more of a peer to Hilda than to Lulu and Florence. Also, Hilda earlier mentions that Cora is studying to pass the teaching exams, like Hilda herself.
2. A little note in the "Bills Receivable" section of the diary shows that Hilda received $1.50 from a "Cora Peterson." Probably the same Cora (since the only other Cora Hilda refers to in the diary is a "Cora Strauss." Possibly Cora Peterson is related to the "Mr. Peterson" Hilda mentions once or twice. There is a slight possibility that Cora is some sort of cousin on Hilda's mother's side, since Charlotte Satterlund's maiden name was Peterson; however, Charlotte was not originally from the Bismarck area so it seems unlikely her relatives were nearby.
-

Thurs. Mar. 25, 1897 Wea. nice

-
Still nice weather. Same old story – studied some. Louie came over and chatted a while and L said he heard down town that Papa was appointed Deputy Warden. In one way I hope it is so, another I do not.

We girls had a great time gossiping and telling stories and building castles in the air – which of course is one of my failings.
-
NOTE
Not sure why Hilda felt conflicted about her father's possibly having been appointed Deputy Warden... possibly because he was already involved in so many other endeavors (political, industrial, and more) and thus neglected his family?
-

Wed. Mar. 24, 1897 Wea. nice

-
We are having plenty of nice weather and it is melting some.

The girls wanted to go coasting but I suggested that they stay home one night. We all studied – Cora and I studying for exam. All I think of is to be able to pass now that I have taken the school. I do not know what I would do if I fail and have to give up my school – I suppose put my head in the sand like an ostrich – which I resemble a good deal in__
-

NOTES
The last word is possibly meant to be "indeed." It begins with "in," has something that looks like a "d" and then there is a line that trails off. Not sure if Hilda meant she looked like an ostrich because she was tall.
-

Mon. Mar. 22, 1897 Wea. cold

-
It is some colder to-day. Cora and I went down town in the afternoon, went in and saw Adeline – she expects to go to the hospital as soon as her father comes down. We then went to Mr. Baardsons and visited a while. Mary was home not feeling very well. Mrs. B advised me to teach and she seemed to feel quite sure that I would pass. I suppose I will have to make the trial.
-

Sun. Mar. 21, 1897 Wea. cold

-
It is some what colder to-day. The weather looks undecided. We did not go to church in the morning. Lu and Flo went to C. E. and church in the evening. Cora and I stayed home. I am getting most awfully lazy if that is possible.

We had quite a trio this P.M. Flo soprano, Lu alto, and your humble servant – tenor. Scrumptuous – I tell you!

NOTE
C.E. was likely short for Y.P.S.C.E., or the Young People's Society of Christian Endeavour. See the April 11 entry in the diary.
-

z

Sat. Mar. 20, 1897 Wea. nice

-
We got up pretty late to-day – however we managed to do the ironing and do some baking but it was hard work to get at it. Flo wrote a letter to mamma and Lulu and Cora wrote or worked on algebra. I finished my handkerchief and it looked real sweet. We all went for a swim and feel fine.

Flo went to the dentist for the last time & bill’s only $22.
-
NOTES

1. "Went for a swim" is likely a whimsical way of saying they took baths. No matter how nice the weather in March, it couldn't be warm enough for an actual swim. (Furthermore, I don't know if anyone actually swam in the river.)

2. $22 was a lot of money in 1897, so perhaps this remark was mildly sarcastic.
-

Fri. Mar. 19, 1897 Wea. nice

-
Stayed home all day. Worked on my ‘kerchief and read a great deal of “Green Mountain Boys” and I think it is fine – it is a war story of 1775. We stayed home this evening and all read and enjoyed ourselves. It seems nice to be alone and not be bothered with “pesky men” and having to have meals on time etc. We do not half realize what a good time we are having.
-
NOTES:
This excerpt taken from the Bennington Museum website:
In 1839 Judge Daniel Pierce Thompson wrote his most famous work of fiction. Printed locally in 1840 and nationally in 1848, his novel, The Green Mountain Boys, served to educate the nation about Vermont’s early struggle for independence. Supposedly created from first-person accounts gathered by the author in his youth, this romantic and patriotic tale follows the fictional Captain Warrington and his trusty sidekick Selden from the land wars with New York through the capture of Fort Ticonderoga and the War for Independence. As a Green Mountain Boy, Warrington, based almost completely on Seth Warner, takes part in many of the early Vermont legends and interacts with such historic personages as Ethan Allen, Remember Baker, Ira Allen, Thomas Chittenden, and Benedict Arnold. In addition to action, the novel also features a love story between Selden and Alma Hendee, the daughter of a retired British army captain and based on the author’s own daughter by the same name.
-

Thurs. Mar. 18, 1897 Wea. nice

-
As it was so nice to-day Lulu and I went and called on Mrs. [Uen? Wen? Illegible] and Mrs. Green. I got some linen and intend hemstitching some handkerchiefs – in fact I started some for me this evening and I got along beautifully. We spent a splendid evening – all industrious. Flo was studying up for an exam. Mama sent me some questions. I want to teach but am afraid of the exam.
-

Wed. Mar. 17, 1897 Wea. lovely

-
This was another ideal spring day. I stayed in all day until evening and Cora suggested a walk and we went down to the P.O. and also went down and got some rubbers. People were wearing green badges in honor of the day. When I got back Ella Fortune was here and wanted Florence to go to a supper and dance and I said - nil. Then Flo. Gage came and they all went to Prayer Meeting.
-
NOTES
1. Rubbers = galoshes
2. Green for St. Patrick's Day. Interesting that it was even observed in North Dakota in the 19th century.
3. The word "nil" is a guess - the actual word is hard to read.
4. Ella is probably the sister of the boy Jim Fortune, with whom Florence was caught by Papa.
-

Tues. Mar. 16, 1897 Wea. lovely

-
This is a beautiful day. Such a contrast to what we have had. I wrote and pasted in my scrap book. In the evening read till about nine and then Albert and Martin Holton and Ross came up. Albert had just come back from the east. He looked quite “citified.” I guess Cora does not know which she liked or likes the best, Albert or Rovig. They stayed til 12 pm. Sh! My!
-
NOTE
Hilda probably meant 12 am (i.e. midnight).
-

Mon. Mar. 15, 1897 Wea. bitter cold

-
We had an awful time to keep warm this morning, it was so cold. The water works are froze and no school. In the afternoon the girls went down to the little school houses and visited. We spent a lovely evening writing talking drawing etc. I am a regular old granny. I like to spend nice quiet evenings at home.
-

Sun. Mar. 14, 1897 Wea. still

-
It is rather sharp to-day. Did not go to church this morning. Rovig came up and spent the afternoon. He said he had a letter from Jim Fortune in St. Paul and he wished to be remembered to us. Ahem!

Went to M. E. Church in the evening and heard [Halsten L?] from the orphans home in Fargo. Flo was mad at me because I did not let her walk home with Frank.
-

Sat. Mar. 13, 1897 Wea. nice

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Johnnie, Lulu and Florence went over to Prof. Moore’s last night and report a good time. Cora and I had a great old talk last night when the kids were gone.

We cleaned and worked in good style to-day. Florence went to the dentist. She has only one more trip to make. It will be a fine bill to pay.
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Fri. Mar. 12, 1897 Wea. stormy

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Did some house cleaning. Lulu and I fixed our blue dresses so they look “slick.” Cora visited school to-day. She was going to the Pen. but did not as Mr. Rovig did not come after her. We had lots of fun over it at her expense.

Five years ago to-day since Arthur died. I was in Fargo then sick in bed with the rheumatism.
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NOTE
Arthur was Hilda's little brother, the youngest child at the time. Floyd was born not long after Arthur's death.
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Thurs. Mar. 11, 1897 Wea. cold wind

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Although quite stormy I commenced to wash. I rubbed all the clothes in the machine. When the girls came home they said there was no school to-morrow on account of teacher’s exam and was sorry I commenced [them? then?].

Florence had to do all the evening work. Lulu and Johnnie went over and spent the evening at Mr. Gage’s. I stayed up till 12 o’clock baking bread.
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Wed. Mar. 10, 1897 Wea. nice

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I wrote eight letters. Papa went home to-day noon with Mr. Falconer. I went down town and wrote three letters on Mr. Williams’ typewriter. It went off fine. Went in to Mrs. Lambs and disposed of $12. Received three letters Marion, [Reitz? Rutz?], and Mamma.

The girls are mad because I won’t take them to the show to-night. Johnnie and Lulu went down town this evening.-
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Tues. Mar. 9, 1897 Wea. nice

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We have a little change to-day. It is melting some. I went down town it was awfully hard walking in the deep snow. I went in to see Selma and got some books from her to read. I suppose I ought to study instead but it is hard to get down to work. I have a lot of letters to write for papa.
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Mon. Mar. 8, 1897 Wea. mild

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It is very still and snowed a great deal. Tom Christian [Christiaan? Christians?] and Even [?] came up. They helped Casselman down with his horses and things. They leave to-night for Virginia. I can almost bet that Larry will never stay there long.

Prof. Moore is going to give a social to the C. E.’s next Friday night and the girls say [illegible] because his wife is gone.
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NOTE
C.E. was likely short for Y.P.S.C.E., or the Young People's Society of Christian Endeavour. See the April 11 entry in the diary.
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Sun. Mar. 7, 1897 Wea. warm

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Cora and I went to church this morning. Mrs. Veeder came over and then Roy came from with a team and they went home. August Johnson came up and spent the evening. We ate candy and he helped me write some applications for a position. I hope to goodness I will get it. August is going home to-morrow and will assume the position of auditor. I tell you I feel proud of him as he is one of “our boys.”
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NOTES
1. Hilda apparently left out a word when she wrote "Roy came from with a team."
2. The word “auditor” is not written clearly but no other word seems plausible.
3. Presumably, the applications were for teaching positions.
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Sat. Mar. 6, 1897 Wea. snowing

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I feel tough to-day both from staying up so late and also on account of sleeping three in a bed as Mrs. Veeder was here. Mrs. V. and Roy went over to Bouchers & we have spent a very quiet day. The girls had a great time at the Cap. yesterday. They have been talking the “fellow” subject until it is stale or is that possible?
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Fri. Mar. 5, 1897 Wea. bliz

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The last day of the session and so it was quite busy. Enrolled four pages and got it all OK. Took lunch up there. Mrs. V., Roy, and I went up in a hack. In the evening, the “kids” all came up. It was quite exciting. They pushed back the clock, threw paper etc. I collected most of the autographs of the clerks and Mr. G[illegible] wrote a piece of poetry. Did not bid goodbye to anyone as I never like that business. Got home about two and almost upset in the hack.
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Thurs. Mar. 4, 1897 Wea. lovely

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As it was a nice day there were a great many visitors up to the Cap. There were some hot discussions on the Penalty Clause and the Sargent at Arms was commanded to make order.

Mrs. Veeder stayed with us over night. Had to go up and work in the evening. [illegible] Martin Holton was up and spent the evening. Played games etc. Did not feel much like entertaining as I felt cross and tired. McKinley is President.

NOTES
1. The Penalty Clause may have referred to (alchohol) prohibition law.
2. Hilda wrote "Sargent" instead of "sergeant."
3. From Wikipedia:

William McKinley, 25th President of the United States
In office March 4, 1897 – September 14, 1901
Vice President	Garret A. Hobart (1897-1899) None (1899-1901) Theodore Roosevelt (1901)
Preceded by	Grover Cleveland
Succeeded by	Theodore Roosevelt

McKinley would be assassinated in 1901.
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NON

Wed. Mar. 3, 1897 Wea. cold

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As usual, cold. Went to the Cap. and got a ride home with Mr. Casselman to-night. Brought home two letters for Papa. One was from Prof. Moore about Florence. I hope the scolding she got will do her good.

Cleveland does not have long to stay in office now.

Mrs. Veeder and Mel came over to-day and visited the Capitol.
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Tues. Mar. 2, 1897 Wea. mild

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I did not intend to go to-night but Roy got a comp. and so went. It was fun but rather long. Cinderella was excellent for a pack of little tots. Did not stay for the dance as it got so late.
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Mon. Mar. 1, 1897 Wea. mild

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It is not as cold to-day. Papa did not go to the Cap. to-day. He is going to try and get me another job. Only another week left of this one. The kids are going to Mr. Hughes ent. to-morrow night but guess I will stay home.

NOTE
ent. = entertainment
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Sun. Feb. 28, 1897 Wea. cold

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Cora and I went to S.S. Stayed home all day. In the evening, went to a Union meeting at the M.E. Church. Seven men spoke on temperance. They were all very good. Miss Preston also spoke. Mrs. J. O. Smith of Casselton sang two beautiful songs. Jim Fortune saw Florence home & Papa caught them in the “act.”
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NOTES

1. S.S. = Sunday School
2. Union = Women's Christian Temperance Union
3. Jim's last name is nearly illegible but in other entries, it appears to be "Fortune."
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