About

This blog is mainly taken from my Great Grandfather's diary. In 2012 we are in the year 1915, after completing 1916 in 2010 and 1927 in 2011. 1915 is the year that my Great Uncle Norman was born. 1927 is the year that my Great Uncle Roger, was born. 1916 was the year that my grandmother, Annah Lee was born.

My Great-Grandfather's name was Bonnie Elmore and he worked as a clerk or secretary for the old Norfolk & Western Railroad, based in Roanoke, VA. Mary is his wife. Norman is their first born son. The Raines are Mary's parents. Skin is Bonnie's brother along with Jake.

Bonnie's work associates and friends are also mentioned quite a bit. Bonnie does a great job of blending everyday life in 1915 with the mention of some world and USA history as well. I do know from a quick glance ahead that 1915 is going to be quite different as Bonnie did not write quite as much.

After Bonnie's diary entry, I will occasionally make comments, maybe tell a little about life in 2012, possibly some current events, and some musing about the Christian faith.



Sunday, December 26, 2010

White Christmas!

Merry Christmas! This post is all from 2010. I am still planning on starting anew on January 1 with Bonnie's 1927 diary, so stay tuned for a new look, new title, etc. I wanted to write about Christmas yesterday because I realized that I had actually looked back to last year's post to remind me of what happened and I wanted to do that again for next year. For Christmas 2010, we had a WHITE CHRISTMAS! There was snow on the ground when we got up around 6 a.m. I drove down and got Mom and she was here by about 6:15 a.m. We opened gifts and had a wonderful breakfast of sausage/egg casserole and orange biscuits. It was awesome. It snowed most of the day without really sticking to the roads until later in the day. I took Mom home around 4 p.m. It was just a really good day. We didn't spend nearly as much this year because of saving for a cruise in June and I know we enjoyed it just as much! Today is Sunday, December 26 and church has been cancelled because of the snow, roads are slick. So we will enjoy another day at home. Caleb and I plan on watching a couple of soccer games on TV from England!

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

1927 on the Horizon

Don't despair. My blog will return in January 2011 possibly with a new title and a new look. Thanks to my Great Uncle Roger, I have obtained Bonnie's 1927 diary and I will be blogging with that as my guide come 2011. I look forward to seeing what Bonnie is up to 11 years later and of hearing tales about Norman and Annah Lee who will be elementary aged children now. Stay tuned!

Sunday, November 21, 2010

One Year Later

On Sunday, November 19, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cold-Clear. Arose at 7:50. Made a fire. Mary and I went to First Presbyterian church today. We all went to Elmwood Park to review the Bible Class parade. I went over home and ate supper. Daisy Dillman was at Mama's. Papa, Skin and Jake were not at home. Came by Raines' and got "funny" paper. Came home at 8:30 p.m. On Monday, November 20, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Very Warm. Arose at 7:30. Made a fire. Met Mr. Raitt on St. and we walked together to the office. Mr. King of the Knox Construction Company advised us of death of P.J. Millett. Indexed and filed correspondence. I shaved after supper. Read the paper. Skin talked to me on Jefferson St. and gave me a cigar. Retired at 10:30. Quite warm. On Tuesday, November 21, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Warm-Clear. Arose at 7:30. Made a fire. Got to work 8:30. Read "American" Magazine. Also wrote a letter to Denny Lawlor. Got my hair cut. Mrs. R, Aunt Annah and I went down street at 8 p.m. to Democratic parade. Pretty bum affair, but a very large crowd on street. I stopped by Joe Milan's and read awhile, came home at 9:20. Ate cheese. I think we have now completed a year. I started with Bonnie's Nov. 21 entry last year. There may be a brief hiatus while I decide where the blog goes from here. Another year from Bonnie's life? Something else? I don't know, I'll eat some cheese, read the funny paper, and watch a parade and see what shakes out. Stay tuned!

Thursday, November 18, 2010

SNOW!

On Wednesday, November 15, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Snow-Cold. Arose at 7:20. Made a fire. Go to see "Friday the 13th" tonight. First snow of the winter today. Mr. Schick left on #15 for Tazewell. I wore overcoat first time this year. Read my book. Wrote letters for Mr. Wiltsee. Awfully cold. Played with Norman at night. Went to "American" to see "Friday the 13th". Talked to Howard Fisher. Home 10:30. On Thursday, November 16, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cold-Clear. Arose 7:20. Got to work 8:30. Mr. Raitt came in at 10 o'clock. I wrote specifications for Mr. Wiltsee. Papa came to the office twice and stayed an hour. I drew $6 from bank for him. Mr. Wiltsee and Mr. Raitt dictated mail to me this afternoon. Mary took Norman up to her mother's before supper. I read paper at night. On Friday, November 17, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Frost-cold. Arose at 7:20 a.m. Got cigars from Sam. Stopped by and talked to Mrs. Raines. Got to work 8:50. Wrote a letter for Mr. Wiltsee about specifications to JEC. Read my book in afternoon. Submarine "Deutachland" rammed and sunk the convoying tug "T.A. Scott Jr." We stopped at Mrs. Raines at supper time. Wrote to Jack W. Kerrigan. On Saturday, November 18, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cold-Clear. Arose at 7:20. Made a fire. Met Mr. Schick on the street. Bought "American" magazine at Joe's Got to work at 8:30. Got and put on heavy underwear. Lester Steffey played Victrola at office and drove me out in his car. We put the car in garage for repairs. I shaved and took bath. Finished reading my book "w. of B.W." book. Ok, lots of stuff to comment on, even though I am very tired tonight. I was on TV early yesterday morning, for fire safety segment and traveled to Richmond and back today for a "Religious Herald" trustee meeting. Back to Bonnie's diary. Now we know that "Friday the 13th" was a movie being shown at the "American theater here in Roanoke. I looked up the movie and found that it was not a horror movie like we had been accustomed to in the late 20th Century. It was a drama and was based on a novel, which is probably why Bonnie was interested. He probably read the book. The second surprise was the early season snow fall!! Wow! Too bad, no snow today in Roanoke. We also read again about the "Deutschland" submarine that we researched earlier in a post and found that the merchant sub did later become a military submarine used in WW I. Sounds like Bonnie and Mrs. Raines worked things out after their fuss. I guess with he snow, and cold, it was time for the heavy underwear. How about the mention of the Victrola and the car? That's pretty cool.

Sunday, November 14, 2010

Had a little fuss

On Sunday, November 12, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Warm-Rain. Arose at 8:00 a.m. Made a fire. Shaved. Aunt Annah went to church on the car. I rolled Norman up to Mrs. Raines ate dinner and stayed until 6 p.m. We came home on the car. Mary and Aunt Annah made tea cakes and took a "nap". I read the Bible and my book "The Winning of Barbara Worth" We retired at 10:00 p.m. On Monday, November 13, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Warm-Clear. Arose at 7:20. Made a fire. Went to Mrs. Raines. Talked to Mrs. Toombs. Wrote a letter to Geo. Dungliason Jr. and went to station to put it on train No. 7. Mr. Raitt left on No. 15 for Tazewell, Va. Mary and Aunt Annah went up to Mrs. Raines. Mr. Schick and I walked down St. together. I talked to Papa at 2 p.m. Cloudy day. On Tuesday, November 14, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Damp-Chilly. Arose at 7:30. Mary made a fire. Mrs. Raines came down. I wrote to Effie for "Friday the 13th". Got a card from Roy Miller and wrote him a letter. Aunt Annah and Mrs. Raines spent the day with Mrs. Grace Hurst. Rained today-cold. Went to see Capt. Rowan and stayed until 5:30. Had a fuss with Mrs. Raines. I guess we are all human and when you spend as much times with some people as Bonnie and Mary seem to spend with Mrs. Raines, it is inevitable that someone is not going to get along every once in a while. I still found it amusing that Bonnie wrote about his fuss with Mrs. Raines, his mother in law. I wonder what it was about? Also, one advantage I have is that I can take a little peek as to what is ahead. The "Friday the 13th" reference will become a little more clear tomorrow and there is some more excitement as well!

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Comet Theater

On Wednesday, November 8, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Foggy-cold. Arose at 7:30. Mr. Echols came for orders and announced the election of Mr. Chas. Evans Hughes. I deposited $4.00 in bank today. Got money for Mr. Schick. Election undecided. Hughes still leads. Crowds around Western Union office, waiting elections returns. Mary went up home. Mr. Schick went to Welch, W. Va. on #3. Read at night. On Thursday, November 9, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cool-Sunny. Arose at 7:30 Made a fire. Got to work at 8:45. No final result on election. Not much work in the office. I read my book "The Winning of Barbara Worth". High wind today. Aunt Annah rolled Annah Lee up to Mrs. Raines' and Mrs. R came down with her and stayed until 9 o'clock. Norman is 21 months old today. On Friday, November 10, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Warm-Pretty. Arose at 7:15. Made a fire. Got to work 8:30. Election yet undecided. Mary, Aunt Annah and Mrs Raines took the children and spent the day with Mrs. Patsel. I ate lunch at the office and went to "comet" theater. Wrote specifications for Mr. Wiltsee. Read my book. Annah Lee is 10 months old today. On Saturday, November 11, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cold-Clear. Arose at 7:15. Made a fire and got in coal. Got to office at 8:30. Mr. Schick came in. Wrote three descriptions. Cut wood after dinner and took Mary's urine to Dr. Burk's. Came back on car to Mama's and ate supper. Went to the "Comet" and came home 10:15. Papa and Christine went to town for groceries.

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Election Day

On Saturday, November 4, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Frost-Warm. Arose at 7:20 a.m. Mr. Raitt and Bass returned. I wrote for Wiltsee. Paid water bill. Got checks cashed for Messers. Raitt and Schick. Got shirt from Sam and Mrs. Schick's Bank book. I cleaned leaves from yards. We ate supper at Mrs. Raines'. Roy and his mother and Lola went home on #25. I went to "American". Talked to Joe Tapley, came home on car at 11 o'clock. On Sunday, November 5, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Moderate. Arose at 8 a.m. Phoned to Mrs. Seymour about Mr. Raines coming to go to silk mill. I worked awhile this morning. Met Glenn Wygle on street. Introduced him to Raitt. Went to "Dry" speaking at the "Jefferson" theater. Went over home and ate supper there with Everett. We returned hats. I came home at 8:30. Everett came to our house for first visit. On Monday, November 6, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cool-Clear. Arose at 7:20. Got to office at 8:35. Mr. Kerfoot came in office. Went to bank for Mr. Raitt. Also talked to Joe Milan. Papa ate lunch with us and I walked up town with him. Mary went to her Mother's account of illness. I shaved after supper and also washed my hair. Began reading "The Winning of Barbara Worth" Retired at 11:00 p.m. On Tuesday, November 7, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Damp-Cloudy. Arose at 7:15 a.m. Made a fire. Went to the polls to vote, and a scoundrel challenged my vote. Mr. Schick urged me to defend my right of suffrage. I voted for Hughes at 1:15 p.m. Wrote 2 letters for Mr. F.P. Turner. Ate supper with Mary at Mrs. Raines. Harry Raines and I went up street to see bulletins. Came home at 11:30 on St. car Retired at 12:15. Ok, I am very intrigued by this scoundrel who challenged Bonnie's vote. How do you even do that? Apparently I need to research the suffrage laws at 1916 in Roanoke. When he says he voted for Hughes, was that a Presidential election? Also when says that he and Harry went up the street to see bulletins I think that was election results and if my history knowledge serves me correctly and this is a Presidential election then there will be a surprise and the results will be days coming in.

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Got Scored

On Wednesday, November 1, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cold-Windy. Arose at 7:30. Made a fire. Mr. Raitt left on train #15 for Tazewell, Va. Went to deposit Mr. Raitt's check. Paid some bills. Went to station to mail letter for Mr. Schick. Mary went up town. Copied "orders"! Ate supper at Mrs. Raines. Harry, Roy and Lola went down St. I shaved with Harry Raines' safety razor. On Thursday, November 2, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cold-Frost. Arose 7:20. Got to work 8:30. Went by Doris' after pictures. Mary and Aunt Annah took kids over to Mama's to spend day. Ate lunch over home and gave Mama a picture of Aunt Duck. Beautiful Autumn day. Not much work today. Mary and Aunt Annah came home 5:30. I read "The Eyes of the World" Pretty night. Retired 10:30. On Friday, November 3, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cool-Sunny. Arose at 7:20. Made a fire. Got to work 8:40. Went to "Joe's" for cigarettes for JRS. Old man "scored" me for loafing. Mary took supper at Mary Britt's. No work to do. Fine weather. Paid Hugh Hogan $2.00 on account. I got haircut. Bought new book "The Winning of Barbara Worth" Lola came home with Mary. Mrs. Raines came. I shaved.

Sunday, October 31, 2010

Virginia Goes Dry

On Tuesday, October 31, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cloudy-Damp. Arose at 7:10 a.m. Made a fire and cleaned ashes from the fire place. Mr. Matthews drove me to town in his car. Virginia goes dry today. "Halloween". Capt. Rowan reported low. Mrs. Raines, Mrs. Miller, Roy and his wife ate lunch with us today. Very warm this p.m. Paid Off. Took check to Capt. Rowan. Stayed home at night. End of month note: One very warm week in October. Two German submarines torpedoed and sank nine British steamships around Long Branch near N.S. waters on Sunday, October 8th. No lives lost. Blaine stayed at home until middle of October and bought Mama a barrel of flour and other provisions. We all called on Aunt "Duck" on Sunday night October 8th 7:30 to 10:30

Saturday, October 30, 2010

Rogers Pond

On Friday, October 27, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Very Chilly. Arose 7:30. Went to work via Holiday St. and N&W station. Mr. Hill in office. "Little Bob" Boxley also came in. I read "Eyes of the World" all afternoon. "Gas man" came in. I rolled Norman out. We ate our supper at Mrs. R. Mrs. Raines feeling very badly. Aunt Annah and I went to Belmont Baptist Church. Got a telegram from Chauncey Elmore. On Saturday, October 28, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Warm-Clear. Arose 7:30. Made a fire. Got to work at 8:30. Mail light. Read my book "The Eyes of the World". Wrote specifications for W.P. Wiltsee. Mrs. Miller, Roy and wife, and Harry Raines came down at 2:30. I took their photo. Shaved and cut wood. Went to the auditorium at night to hear Carter Glass speak. On Sunday, October 29, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cool-Rain. Arose at 8 a.m. Rolled Norman out toward Roger's pond and silk mill. Also to Mrs. Raines'. Went to office at 3:30 to see Capt. Rowan. I took flowers. Mrs. Cooper died Saturday. Went over home. Read Wash. Post. Everret came in and we changed hats. Raining. I came home at 8:30 and retired at 10:11 p.m. On Monday, October 30, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Raining. Arose at 7:15 a.m. Wrote for W.P.W. Mr. Pitzer in. Took Barometer to Express office. Got candy at Kress'. "Billy" Miller returned to office off his honey-moon. Took 1 film to Geo. Davis. Mary went up St. to change Norman's shoes. I stopped by Mrs. Raines after lunch. Took a bath and shaved at night. Ok, so the Miller mystery comes into a little clearer view now after these entries. Mrs. Miller, is Billy Miller's mother and that is who stayed at the Elmore's for a night or 2, possibly because the honey-mooning couple was at her house. Billy's wife is apparently just called "the wife" at this point. I can see where some of the Elmore's children got their names. I believe my grand-mother, Annah Lee (Mary and Bonnie's 2nd child), got her name from Aunt Annah who gets mentioned a lot in Bonnie's diary. And then today we read about Roger's pond which may not have anything to do with the naming of a later child, but I just found it interesting. I did not know there was a Rogers pond in Roanoke.

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

Render Aid

On Wednesday, October 25, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cold a.m. - Clear p.m. Arose 7:20. Made a fire. Got to work at 8:45 a.m. Mr. Schick gave Mr. Raitt and I cigars. Mr. Laughorn died suddenly. Mary went over to render aid. I indexed and filed mail. Rolled Norman around before supper. We cracked walnuts after supper. I shaved and we retired at 10:30 Windy. On Thursday, October 26, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Very Cold. Arose at 7:15. Mary made fire. Got to work at 8:30. Wrote for W.P.W. W.W. Boxley in. "Flower Day" parade at 3:30 p.m. Talked to Jack Bowdell. Read chapters of "Eyes of the World". Frank Eades came to our office at 5:15 and talked insurance until 7:30. I got home at 7:40. Read the paper. Very cool night. We retired 10 p.m.

Sunday, October 24, 2010

Newly Married Millers

On Thursday, October 19, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Rain-Warm. Arose at 7:20 a.m. Got to office 8:45. Billy Miller to be married today. All our work up. No correspondence. Read "Eyes o' World". Went to see Capt. Rowan-found him restless. Mr. Raitt cleaned up Capt.'s desk. I felt badly all day. Gloomy day. I stayed at home after supper and retired at 9 p.m. Aunt Annah went to church. On Friday, October 20, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Warm-Cloudy. Arose at 7 a.m. Got to work with Webb at 8:30. Mr. Raitt and I cleaned up book shelf and I carried books and files over to "cold storage". Checked 50 cents from bank to see "The Birth of a Nation". Got letter from Frank Fisher. Mrs. R and Harry ate dinner with us. Mrs. R and Aunt Annah went to Academy. I shaved after supper. Cut wood. On Saturday, October 21, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cold-Sunny. Arose at 7 a.m. Got to office at 8:30. Talked to Howard Fisher. Got gum at Joe's. Went to see Capt. Rowan and bought a ticket for Mary to "Birth of a Nation". Wrote statement for W.H. Burke. Mary and I went to see "Birth of a Nation". We ate supper at Mrs. Raines'. Bought candy at Kress'. Saw Jake at Academy. Stayed home at night. On Sunday, October 22, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cool-Sunny. Arose 8 a.m. Shaved. Took a picture of Annah Lee. Read paper and book. Mr. Wertz buried. Rolled Norman to Mrs. R. Went to hospital to talk to Dr. Burks about Mary. Ate supper over home. Read paper and helped Teeny with school work. Came home on 10 o'clock car. Mary and Mrs. R. rolled kids to Mrs. Hurst's. Papa was at home for Sunday. On Monday, October 23, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cool-Sunny. Arose at 7:30. Took dictation about options until noon. Wrote all afternoon. Mary and Norman went to Mrs. Raines after dinner. Mr. Raitt went to see Capt. Rowan this morning. I had mail registered at 6 p.m. Mrs. Miller spent the night with us. Mr. Stultz died Sunday. On Tuesday, October 24, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cold-Clear. Arose 7:00 a.m. Mr. Schick returned from Atlantic City. I went to station to have his trunk sent to house. Wrote for Wiltsee. Feeling dizzy headed. Cut wood before supper. Beautiful day. Mrs. Miller and Mrs. Raines ate dinner with us. Mr. Raitt and I made up Oct. payrolls today. I stayed at home at night and read the paper. It's been interesting following the story of the Millers. Announce the wedding one day, get married the next, and then just a few days later, Mrs. Miller is staying at the Elmore's? What happened? Maybe a different Mrs. Miller, but also there could be more to the story.

Monday, October 18, 2010

The Eyes of the World

On Wednesday, October 18, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Very Cool-Cloudy. Arose 7:20 a.m. Phoned about Capt. Sister said he was better. Indexed and filed correspondence. Read part of book "The Eyes of the World". Billy Miller announced date of his marriage. Rain all day. I bought new pair of tan shoes from Harry Hall, Commerce Shoes. Shaved at night. Mary went uptown at 11:00 a.m. to do some shopping.

Sunday, October 17, 2010

Fainting Spell

On Friday October 13, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Frost-Cold. Arose at 7:30. Made a fire. Went by Joe Milan's and got tobacco. Saw Howard Fisher. Got to work 8:40. Mr. Schick returned. Wrote to Blaine. Not much work. Mary called me up. Also Mrs. Dogan. Sent order to Mama. Ate supper at Mrs. Raines' Went to the auditorium. Talked to Harry and May Crumpacker. Also Everrett St. Clair Home 10:00. On Saturday, October 14, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cool-Clear. Arose 6:30. Made a fire got to work on time. Not much mail. Went to bank for J.W. Raitt. Shriner's parade here today. Cleaned up yard and shaved. Went to Shriner's parade and to the station with Everrett St. Clair to meet Harry Raines. Went to "American" at night and cmae home with Jones Gardner. Very Chilly. On Sunday, October 15, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cold-Cloudy. Arose 8:00. Harry Raines came down and stayed to 12 o'clock. Mary and I took Norman to Mrs. Raines in p.m. Read N.Y. Journal. Took a bath. Ate supper at Mrs. Raines'. Stayed home at night. Didn't go to see Mama. Arthur Moore preached his last sermon at Auditorium. Mr. and Mrs. Raines went over. On Monday, October 16, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cool-Cloudy. Arose at 7:20. Got to work 8:35. Mr. Schick went to Philadelphia for 2 weeks. Not much work. Wrote an application for Skinny. Finished reading "Romance of Old Fashioned Gentleman" Ate supper at Mama's. Papa gave me 5 cents carfare. Watched Coast Artillery Drill. Came home at 10 p.m. Rain and Lightning. On Tuesday, October 17, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Warm-Pleasant. Arose at 7:15 a.m. Capt. Rowan had fainting spell and I caught him and placed him in chair. Took him home in ambulance. Ate lunch at Mrs. Raines'. Bought "The Eyes of the World". Got haircut. Went over to see Capt. at his home. Wrapped razor. Went to drug store for cigar. Read book and newspaper. Aunt Annah went to church. Well, sounds like the revival at the auditorium is over. I don't know who Arthur Moore was. Sounds like Bonnie had some excitement with catching one of his bosses when he fainted at work. I wonder what ambulances were like in 1916 in Roanoke. Roanoke is considered to be the birth-place of the first Rescue Squad/Life Saving crew. Interesting that the ambulance took Capt. Rowan to his home. I am guessing that the ambulance service was not much more than just a ride, a transportation service. I also think that a lot of those early ones may have been run by the undertaker, which I suppose could have been convenient at times.

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Annah Lee Suffered

On Wednesday, October 11, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Very cool-Frost. Arose at 7:25. Made a fire and got in coal. Took a letter to train #1 for Mr. Schick to Mrs. Phillip Goodwill. Blaine left on "Memphis Special" for Little Rock, Ark. Indexed and filed my mail. Took telegrams to Western Union. Went to Mrs. R's for supper. Read paper and stayed in. Annah Lee suffered. Very bright moonlight. Mr. Schick left. On Thursday, October 12, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Frost-Cold. Arose at 7:30 a.m. Got to office 8:30. Capt. Rowan went to funeral of Mrs. Ira T. Colman at Catholic Church. Mr. Raitt came to office at 10:15 a.m. Mr. Schick away. I went to the auditorium to take castoria to Mary for baby. Mrs. R ate lunch with us. Norman cut his finger. Ate supper over home and went to the auditorium. Came home at 10 o'clock. I still don't know what my grandmother, Anna Lee, had wrong with her when she was a baby, but it must have been bad. Also, seems like a really long revival service at the auditorium. Those kids will always keep parents busy. By the way, I looked up castoria and it is a kind of medicine. I would presume that it is like Castor oil.

Sunday, October 10, 2010

Possum Creek Viaduct

On Friday, October 6, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Warm-Cloudy. Arose at 7:30. Indexed and filed correspondence. Wrote rail specifications for Wiltsee. Rolled Norman up to Mrs. Raines'. Mr. Raitt didn't come to the office in the afternoon. Mary and I went to auditorium at night. Mrs. Raines came down. Bought shoe polish. Came home at 10 p.m. Retired at 11 p.m. On Saturday, October 7, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Warm-Sunny. Arose at 7 a.m. Wrote for W.P.W. Capt. Rowan and I went to see the Buffalo Bill parade. Mr. Schick came in. I talked to McLean on street. Went over home after dinner. Went to "American". Also "Bijou" and "Comet" with Blaine. Mama and Christine came down and went to show. Blaine gave Mama money and got barrel of flour. We talked to Joe Tapley at 11:30 on Jefferson St. On Sunday, October 8, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Very Hot. Arose at 8 a.m. Mr. Raines and I rolled Norman to Waverly. Mr. and Mrs. R ate dinner with us. Mary, Mr. and Mrs. Raines and I went to auditorium. Ate supper at home. Mama, Teeny, Blaine, Jake and I went to Fisher's. I came home on car at 10:30. Blaine gave me a dime. Buffalo Bill's show wrecked on Va. Ry. 22 horses killed. On Monday, October 9, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Awfully Hot. Arose at 7:15. Norman is 20 months old today. Completed Mr. Wiltsee's work. Blaine ate dinner with us today. Norman was afraid of him. I shaved after supper. Drizzling rain at 5:30 p.m. Stayed in at night and read and played with Norman. Loam called me up on phone asking about Blaine going away. On Tuesday, October 10, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cooler-Cloudy. Arose at 7:30 a.m. Annah Lee is today 9 months of age. Mr. Raitt and Bass and left on No. 6 to work on the "Possum creek viaduct" All my work up. Aunt Duck spent day with Mama. I went over home at 3:30 p.m. Stayed for supper. Took Aunt Duck's picture. Blaine and I went to church services at auditorium in morning. Very cold after 6 p.m.

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

Revival in town?

On Thursday, October 5, 1916 Bonni Elmore wrote: Warmer-Cloudy. Arose at 7 a.m. Made a fire. Got to work at 8:40. Mr. Raitt has lame back and was late coming. Wrote specifications for Wiltsee entirely all day. Mary and Mother went to morning services at Auditorium. Cloudy like rain. Aunt Annah went to Auditorium. Blaine came in from Selma, Va. I shaved after supper. Ok, so there must be a revival in town at the auditorium? Morning services? Wow. It is fire prevention week here in 2010 and seeing all these notes about Grand-daddy starting a fire just makes me want to remind everyone to check their smoke alarms. Test them once a month and please make sure you have a family fire escape plan.

Monday, October 4, 2010

Mamie

On Wednesday, October 4, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cool-cloudy. Arose at 7:30. Got to office at 8:45 a.m. Mr. Schick away. Wrote all day for Wiltsee. Mrs. Raines ate dinner with us today. Wrote to Chauncey Elmore today. Went over home and ate supper. Mamie and Daisy Robertson came over. I came home at 9:30. Auditorium filled with people at preaching.

Sunday, October 3, 2010

Cussed Out

On Thursday, September 28, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Fine weather. Arose at 7:00. Made a fire. Got to work 8:30. Mr. Schick gave Mr. Raitt, Capt. Rowan and I a complimentary fair and car tickets. Got off work at 12 noon. Rode home in tricycle car with Pete Guerraut. Gave Skin my ticket to the fair and Everett and I went to the picture show. Cleaned up the back yard. Took a cold bath at night. Heavy Rain. On Friday, September 29, 1916: Cloudy-cold. Arose at 7:30. Got to work at 8:30. Indexed and filed mail. Got a card from Bob Elmore and letter from Chauncey D. Elmore. Carter Thompson came to our office. Mr. Schick went to Bedford, Va. to go over church matter. Came back #3, 4:30. I got hair cut at 6:00 p.m. Stopped by Mrs. Raines' Read paper at night and retired at 10 p.m. On Saturday, September 30, 1916: Cool-Clear. Arose at 7:10. Cut wood and made a fire. Got tobacco at Joe Milan's and to work at 8:35. Went to bank twice. Got my check cashed. Talked with Skin about Blaine. Very fine day. Mary and I went uptown and paid some bills. I went to show at night at "Virginia" Theater. Came home on car at 10 p.m. End of month note for September 1916: The fair was reputed to be the largest and best of all. Blaine at home this month on 30 day visit. Very fine autumn weather this month. Infantile paralysis is scaring the people here this month. 4 cases in all. Very hot month. Joint American and Mexican Commission of peace to meet this month. We are worried about Annah Lee's condition. Louis Layman of Troutville, Va. killed in France on August 12th. "Infantile paralysis" reported to be prevalent in Roanoke. Great scare. On Sunday, October 1, 1916, Bonnie Elmore wrote: Very Cool. Arose at 8 a.m. Made a fire and shaved. Went to First Christian Church. Aunt Annah went to spend day with Mrs. Hughes, while ill. We ate dinner at home and took the children up to Mrs. Raines and ate supper. Ruth Edwards and Miss Brooks came over. Aunt Annah, Mr. and Mrs. R went to Auditorium. Harry went on his vacation West. On Monday, October 2, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cold-Clear. Arose at 7 a.m. Got to work 8:30. Paid some bills. Wrote Bob Elmore. Mary went to Dr. Lawson's office with her mother, called me on phone. Mrs Raines ate dinner with us. Got 3 tons coal from Pitzer $12.00. Went to Bank for Mr. Schick at 3 p.m. W.K.B. Steffey employed. Talked Bill Fisher. Mr. Schick "cussed me out" for being late. Stayed home at night and read. On Tuesday, October 3, 1916: Very cool. Mr. Schick left on #1 to go over N. R. H&M Rd. Went out to Mr. Schick's house for legging at 9 o'clock. Wrote specifications for Mr. Wiltsee. Cut wood at 6 o'clock. Mary took Norman to Mrs. Raines'. She and Fannie Miller came down. I shaved and read the paper. Took a bath at 10:30 and retired at 11 p.m. Just quickly: The end of month note for September was interesting. I would really like to know what Annah Lee's condition was. They are really concerned. She was my grandmother and I know that she lived to be in her 90's and was really pretty healthy most of her life that I knew her. So, it couldn't have been anything real serious. Do they think she has this "infantile paralysis"? Also, wow, Bonnie got cussed out by his boss for being late! That was a new one for me. I also got a kick from yesterday's entries when everyone watched the aeroplane flight from the office window as a part of the fair that is in town. Airplane flights in and out of Roanoke are now so common that no one hardly notices. Only when Air Force One is in town doing touch and go's do some people take notice.

Saturday, October 2, 2010

Fair in Town!

On Sunday, September 24, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cold-Sunny. Arose at 7:30. Shaved. Mary and I went to Presbyterian Church at 11 a.m. Went over home at 2 p.m. Blaine and I went to Mountain Park. Ate supper at Loam's. Aunt Annah, Mr. and Mrs. Raines went to Auditorium. Blaine and I talked to Howard Fisher, Jake and Raymond McDermott. I got home at 11 o'clock. Norman cut his mouth on cob. On Monday, September 25, 1916: Cool-Clear. Arose at 7 a.m. Got to work 8:30. Wore my pin-striped suit. I wrote a letter for Everett to H.F. Greenwood. Wrote good many letters. Feeling pretty bad today. Went over home for supper. Left Mama's at 8:30 and went to town. Blaine went to see Mr. Sullivan. I came home at 10:30, feeling badly. On Tuesday, September 26, 1916: Cold and Warm. Arose at 7:15. First day of the fair. Worked steadily and hard all day. Mary and Aunt Annah took the children to see the Edwards but they were away. Cut wood before supper and shaved. Played with Norman until 9:30 p.m. Read the paper. Made a fire this morning. Very chilly. Worked very hard all day. On Wednesday, September 27, 1916: Cool in a.m., Warm in p.m. Arose at 7:20. Got to work at 8:30. Today is second day of fair. We all witnessed the aeroplane flight from the office window. Completed "Track Work" for W.P. Wiltsee. Ate dinner at Mrs. Raines'. Aunt Annah and Mrs. R went to the fair. Norman and I got candy at Hurst's. Mary and I went to Auditorium at night to hear Arthur Moore. Home at 10 o'clock.

Thursday, September 23, 2010

Loafing

On Thursday, September 21, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Very-cold. Arose at 7:30. Mr. Schick away. Wrote mail. Dropped Dr. Hagan. Norm in p.m. Nathan Raitt came to office. Feeling pretty much all in today. All loafing. Fixed my shoes at Mrs. Raines. Mary rolled Norman up to Mrs. Raines'. Mary and I went to tent meeting on Campbell Ave. Mr. Moore presiding. On Friday, September 22, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cold-Warm-Rain. Arose at 7:30. Got to work at 8:45 a.m. Indexed and filed correspondence. Read "At the Foot of the Rainbow". Mr. Schick came home at 4:35 p.m. Went over town and got 2 cigars for Mr. Raitt and myself. Thunder and rain at 5 o'clock p.m. Ate supper at Mrs. Raines and shaved. Came home at 8:30 p.m. On Saturday, September 23, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cool-Sunny. Arose at 7:30. Got to work at 8:35. Bass, Roberts and I carried books over to storage. Wrote only 3 letters in morning. Mrs. Raines, Aunt Annah and Mary took children to Waverly Place. I took bath at Mrs. Raines at 4 p.m. Went to "Bijou" came home at 6:30 and read paper and stayed home at night.

Monday, September 20, 2010

Frost

On Wednesday, September 20, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Very Cool. Frost. Arose at 7:30. Rolled Norman to Mrs. Raines'. Went to station with court papers for Mr. Schick in Lynchburg. Went to Western Union and Dr. Payne's office. Ate lunch at Mrs. Raines' Talked to Skin and Blaine on street. Went over home at 8:00 p.m. and Everett, Blaine and I went down street. Met Skin, Everett and Blaine went to Elk's home. I came home 11 p.m. In 2010, being in Fire Inspector school and 2 jobs, plus a family means no time for adding comments. Just doing good to get Bonnie's entries posted.

Sunday, September 19, 2010

Happy Birthday Bonnie!

On Tuesday, September 19, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Very cool today. Arose at 7:30. Today I am 25 years old. Sent papers to Mr. Schick -Lbg. Finished reading "The Calling of Dan Matthews". Aunt Annah and Mrs. R spent day at Page's. Wrote for Mr. Wiltsee. Went over home at night. Failed to see Blaine. Played with Norman. Came home at 9:30 and retired at 10:30.

Saturday, September 18, 2010

Whole lot of Buying Going On

On Wednesday, September 13, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Raining. Arose at 7:30 a.m. Mr. Schick went to Lynchburg to testify in the "Carrozzo-Carpenter-Boxley" suit. Auntie Airheart and Mrs. Raines took dinner with us today. I shaved at noon. Wrote to Chauncey D. Elmore. Went to M.E. Church at 8 p.m. to 9:30. Bought H.B. Wright's "The Calling of Dan Matthews." On Thursday, September 14, 1916 Bonnie wrote: Rain, Hot-Clear. Arose at 7:30 a.m. Got to work at 8:45. Mr. Schick and Mr. Raitt away. Capt. Rowan and I went down St. at 9 a.m. to see Elks and I took chart to Dr. Hagan. Introduced to Dr. Gills. Met Mary down street and she gave me lunch and 10 cents. They spent day with Loam. I went to "American" Didn't go to church tonight. Dark and raining. Retired at 10:30 p.m. On Friday, September 15, 1916 Bonnie wrote: Raining. Arose at 7:30. Got to work 8:45. Mr. Schick and Mr. Raitt away. Wire from Mr. Schick. May and Mrs. Raines came to office with Norman. Mary bought pair of shoes and gloves, etc. I read the calling of Dan Matthews all day. Mrs. Raines down. Mary and I went to M.E. church to see stereoptican slides of old world cities. Monnlight night. On Saturday, September, 16, 1916 Bonnie wrote: Very cool. Arose at 7:30. Mr. Raitt back. Took chart to Dr. Hugh Hagan. Got a haircut. Norman spent all day with Grandma Raines. Mr. Raines gave him a wagon. Swept yard, raked leaves, piled wood and put up stove. Went to Mrs. R at 8 p.m. and I went to the "American". Bought a new felt hat. On Sunday, September 17, 1916 Bonnie wrote: Cool-Sunny. Arose at 8 a.m. Went to office. Messrs. Schick, Raitt, Silliman and Rowan there. Wore new hat for first time. Mr. Raitt and I searched vault. Auntie and Uncle Bob Airheart came by after dinner. Mary and I took children over to Mrs. R's. I went to depot but Blaine failed to come. Loam, Gwinnett, Jess and I ate supper with Mama and Christine. On Monday, September 18, 1916 Bonnie wrote: Very Chilly. Frank Lakes is 25 years old today. Went to take chart to Dr. Hagan. Also Mr. Raitt's glasses. Received letter from Blaine advising he would reach Roanoke at 5:40 p.m. Christine, Skin and I met Blaine at station and ate supper over home. Wrote for Mr. W.P. Wiltsee. Came home at 9:30 p.m.

Sunday, September 12, 2010

M.E. Church

On Sunday, September 10, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cool-Pleasant. Arose 8:00 a.m. Annah Lee is 8 months old today. Shaved. Played with Norman. Aunt Annah went out. I went over home and ate my supper. Skin drove me home in his car. Mrs. Raines came down and brought some chicken. I went to see slides of Holy Land at M.E. Church from 8-9:30. The moon was so very pretty and bright. On Monday September 11, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cool-Pleasant. Arose at 7:30. Got work 8:30. Completed Mr. Wiltsee's work. Mr. Raitt away. Took charts for baby to Dr. Hagan. Loaned book to Nettie Fisher. Mary rolled Norman up to Mrs. R's. Mrs. Raines came home with her. I went to M.E. church to see stereoptican slides. Beautiful night with bright moonlight. Retired at 10:30. On Tuesday, September 12, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cool-fine. Arose at 7:30. Went to Dr. Hagan's office with chart. Dr. Hagan phoned me at 9:30 a.m. stating baby's condition very good. Not much work in afternoon. Mr. Raitt away. Loam called me up at office. I shaved at night and went to Methodist church. Wrote to Bob Elmore and Aunt Florence Norman's eye is sore today. Took a bath at Mrs. Raines 6:00 p.m.

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Concern

On Thursday, September 7, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Very hot day. Arose at 7:30. Got to work 8:40. Mr. Davenport's condition worse. Indexed and filed correspondence. Went to Post Office and mailed flowers to Grace Woods. Dr. Hugh Hagan came down home to see baby. He ran over child and broke his arm. Got a card from Chauncey Elmore. Talked to Leon Abbott. Sept. 7, 1910 - Sept. 7, 1916 with Mr. Schick 6 years as steno. On Friday, September 8, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Very hot day. Arose at 7:30. Got to work at 8:35. Wrote instructions to engineers and sent out options. Dr. Hagan came down to house. Annah Lee has improved. Got a letter from Lena. Cut weeds from around walks. Mrs. Raines came down after 6 p.m. I shaved and read paper. Very high wind and rain at 5 p.m. and rain at night. On Saturday, September 9, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Arose 7:30. Got to work at 8:45. Mr. Raitt away. Norman is 19 months old today. Jake came down home at 6 p.m. Mary and I rolled Norman to Barber shop and got haircut. Also get him pair shoes. We ate supper at Mrs. Raines and I went to "American" "A Million a Minute". Talked to Edna Myers. Came home and washed my hair 11:30. Today's posts are ones of concern. We had read earlier of Mr. Davenport's paralysis, but now his condition is worse. Who is Mr. Davenport and how did this happen? Also, no details are given on why Dr. Hagan continues to come every day to see "the baby". Later, there is a reference to Annah Lee being much improved, so I am assuming she is the baby, which is what I thought, but what was wrong? Then, Dr. Hagan apparently ran over a child and broke his arm. I am assuming he broke the child's arm. Was Dr. Hagan driving an automobile or something else? Who was the child? I did confirm that "A Million a Minute" was a movie released in May of 1916, but no plot summary was given.

Monday, September 6, 2010

Big Bang Theory

On Sunday, September 3, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Sunny-Warm. Arose at 8:00 a.m. Shaved and went to Belmont Methodist Church. We took children up to Mrs. Raines' at 4 p.m. and I went over home and ate supper. Came home at 9 p.m. Ate watermelon over home and also at Mrs. Raines. Everett ate dinner over home. Sunday was a very fine day. On Monday, September 4, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Chilly all day. Arose at 8:00. Mrs. Wade's gas store exploded and blew Mr. Wade out back door. I cut the grass and Papa came over 10:30. We walked up town. Met Skin and he drove us to Loam's. We ate lunch at Loam's and came home on car. I went to Dr. Conduff's office. Mama and Christine over and Papa for supper. I phoned to Dr. Davis. On Tuesday, September 5, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cool-Pleasant. Arose at 7:20. Got to work at 8:45. Mr. Schick was surprised to see me come in presuming we were in New Castle. Got a letter from Chauncey E. Mr. J.A. Davenport partially paralyzed. Called Dr. Lawson to examine Annah Lee. Wrote a letter to Blaine. Dr. Hugh Hagan came and examined the baby. Mrs. Raines came down after supper until 10 p.m. On Wednesday, September 6, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Warm-Sunny. Arose at 7:30. Got to work 8:45. Went to Post Office. Lester Steffey drove me up Patterson Ave. and back in his "Buick" car. Went to Dr. Hagan's office and talked to him about baby. Dr. Hagan came to the house at 10:30. Capt. W.W. Boxley in. Got letter from Bob Elmore. Brought Norman up to Granny's on street car 2:30 p.m. Ate supper at Mrs. Raines' (Raining). Letter from Myrtle English. So, Sunday was a very fine day and again another double watermelon eating day, which may have contributed to it being a very fine day. Then Monday started with a bang. Bonnie does not tell us if Mr. Wade was okay. I hope he was. Bonnie does not mention going to work on Monday and he spent it with family, which makes me wonder if it was Labor Day. Was Labor Day celebrated back then? Or was it some other holiday? Also, all of the doctor talk but no mention of who is sick at this point. On Tuesday, Bonnie goes to work and his boss is surprised to see him, because the boss does not know that Bonnie and Mary have cancelled their vacation plans to New Castle. I do not know who Mr. Davenport is and why he is paralyzed. We do now find out that apparently the doctor talk is for Annah Lee (my grandmother), but we still do not know what is wrong. On Wednesday, Bonnie has the doctor come to the house to possibly re-examine Annah Lee. Hope she is okay. It is always a big deal in 1916 when one gets to ride in an automobile!

Thursday, September 2, 2010

Happy Birthday Nanny!

On Friday, September 1, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Warm-Pleasant. Mary 21 years old today. Arose at 7:30. Got to work at 8:50. Slow work today. R.R. strike situation much modified. I got a haircut. Got pictures to send away. Got mixed up on money. Sent options to Kerfoot. Paid some bills. Bought a "Grit" today. We came home from Mrs. Raines after eating supper at 9:00 p.m. On Saturday, September 2, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Hot-Rain p.m. Arose at 7:30. Got to work at 8:40. Went to Bank at 11:30 and got telephone checked cashed. Paid bills. Cut grass in afternoon. Rained at 4 p.m. Went up to Mrs. Raines' at 7 p.m. Shaved and took a bath. Mary, Aunt Annah, and Mrs. R took kids uptown. I went to the "American" theater. What is a grit?

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Home with Horton

On Thursday, August 31, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Pleasant-Sunny. Arose at 7:30. Not much work to do today. Walked home with Horton at noon. Got candy at Hurst's. Shaved at 2 o'clock p.m. Received our paychecks today. Mary, Aunt Annah, Mrs. Raines and I went to Mt. Park to see the "Moonlight Dance". Talked to Mrs. Elsie Brown McConnell. Home at 10:30. End of month note for August 1916: August opened up with killing hot weather the first day. Infantile paralysis still raging in New York. Negotiations on between American and Mexican commissioners. Railroads conferring with President over proposed strike. Took my vacation in New Castle this month. Who would have thought that New Castle was a vacation destination? Wow.

Monday, August 30, 2010

Ice Cream

On Tuesday, August 29, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cloudy-Rain. Arose at 7:30. Mary phoned me about trip to New Castle in car. Cancelled trip. Aunt Annah went to lodge with Mrs. R. I went to telephone office for money; talked to Nettie Fisher. Mamma and Christine spent the day with Aunt Duck. I cut grass before supper. Pasted pictures in album. Played with Norman and retired at 10:00 p.m. On Wednesday, August 30, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cool-Hot p.m. Arose at 7:30. Rolled Norman up to Mrs. Raines'. Got to work 8:50. Rode to lunch on car. Harry and Mrs. R ate lunch with us. Miss Cleo Shoffner came in our office and got legal cap paper. Cut grass after supper and all of us went up to Mrs. Raines'. I went to the creamery and got a quart of chocolate ice cream. So, in the post from August 29, 1916, was Bonnie thinking about taking another trip to New Castle, (he just went recently to visit relatives and traveled via train) but this time by automobile? However, Mary nixed that idea I am guessing. I wonder why? I didn't know you could go to the telephone office to get money! Bonnie cuts a lot of grass, I guess I have to in 2010. Bonnie got chocolate ice cream and we happen to have home made peach ice cream in our house here in 2010.

Saturday, August 28, 2010

Watermelon Times Two

On Saturday, August 26, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Fine Pleasant Day. Arose at 7:30. Rode up town in Sam Mason's automobile. Mr. Chas. Silliman in the office. I wrote up agreement. Harry M. Waugh came in and gave Capt. and I a good cigar. Cut and raked the grass from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. Shaved at Mrs. Raines'. Went to "American" and got pictures from Davis. Came home at 11 o'clock. On Sunday, August 27, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Hot-Sunny. Arose 8 a.m. Harry Raines came down. I went to our church at 11 a.m. Mrs. Hilton up at Mrs. Raines'. I took Norman up on car. Ate supper over home. Ate watermelon at home and at Mrs. Raines. Raining and thunder and lightning at night. Mr. Raines began reading "When a Man's a Man". Very hot weather. On Monday, August 28, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Mild-Cool. Arose at 7:20. Wrote two deeds and small bunch of mail. SSt. Staples in, also Mr. Russell. We ate lunch and supper at Mrs. Raines'. Shaved there. Stopped in at Caldwell-Sites and examined books. Very cool at night. Mrs. Raines ran after us coming home and brought Norman's milk bottle. Very cool night. Sounds like the weather is begining to change in 1916 and it also might be here in 2010 as well. I got a kick out of Grand-daddy saying he had watermelon at home and at Mrs. Raines. Caleb had first rec club soccer game today and they lost 6-1. Rachel and I then had eye doctor appointments. Getting my eyes dilated is not my most favorite thing. Went and ordered new glasses, unable to get sun-glasses. Went to the store.

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

Abell to cut grass

On Friday, August 25, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cool-Weather. Arose at 7:20. Mary took Norman up to Mrs. Raines' and to the store. I filed and indexed correspondence. Read "Cosmopolitan" magazine. Talked to Skin about New Castle trip. Also went to garage. Talked to Net Fisher. Wrote to Lena. Cut grass at night and went to Mrs. Abell's with grass. Aunt Annah went to hospital and had finger dressed.

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Caught 2 mice

On Thursday, August 24, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cloudy-Warm. Arose at 7:15. Got to work at 8:45. Pasted pictures in Kodak album. Mrs. Raines came down at night. I cut grass and received a letter from Grover Long from Loqust, N.C. Talked to Frank Lakes. Read a great deal today in the office. Mary rolled Norman up to her mother's. We caught two mice tonight.

Monday, August 23, 2010

Vacation off

On Wednesday, August 23, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Very Hot. Arose 7 a.m. Slow work in office today. Harry Raines gave us some pictures. I got our vacation pictures out of shop. Cut grass at night and shaved. Mary and Aunt Annah took the children up to Mrs. Raines after supper. Mrs. R came home with them. Mary has decided to call off her proposed vacation in Freeman, W.Va. Did Bonnie and Mary take separate vacations? And why did Mary call hers off? I would love to see the pictures. In 2010, this was first day of school for our kids. Lots and lots of forms to fill out tonight. You would think that with new technology there would be a better way to do that.

Sunday, August 22, 2010

Heavy Work

On Tuesday, August 22, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Hot-Sunny. Arose at 7:15. Walked Norman up street. Got to work at 8:30 ahead of others. Wrote 4 letters for Mr. Turner. Heavy work all day long. Heavy Thunderstorm at 5 p.m. Mary, Aunt Annah and I ate supper at Mrs. Raines. Read Papers. Came home at 9 p.m. Wrote Chauncey Elmore, Aunt Mary, Uncle Cliff and Aunt Florence. Nice day here in 2010. Good day at church. Took a nap this afternoon. Went with Grandma to get ice cream and take a ride. Read the paper. NFL preseason game comes on tonight. School starts tomorrow.

Saturday, August 21, 2010

Back Home

On Sunday, August 20, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Hot Day. Arose at 7:20. Chauncey and I took minnows to the creek. Aunt Mary, Uncle Cliff and I took dinner with Aunt Florence Craft. I ate supper at Aunt Florence's. Chauncey came by after me. Sat up till 11 o'clock. Chauncey spent the night with me. Very sleepy. On Monday, August 21, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cool-Pleasant. Arose at 5 a.m. Left New Castle 6:15 - Got to Buchanan 8:25. Waited 7 hours for N & W train #13. Met a boy from Craig going to Troutville. Bought Coca-Cola, cigar, and salted peanuts. Read "Cosmopolitan" at Buchanan. Shaved at night and went by Mrs. R's for Norman and Mary. Took a bath at 11:00 p.m. Read the paper. Severe electrical storm at 6 o'clock.

Thursday, August 19, 2010

Seining

On Thursday, August 17, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Arose at 8 a.m. Robert came to house at 8:30. I took a bath at Mrs. Raines and Mary rolled Norman to station with me. Ate dinner at the hotel in Buchanan. Left Buchanan at 6:30 p.m. and got to New Castle at 9 o'clock. Ate supper, smoked cigars, and spent the night at Aunt Mary Elmore's. Susie Scholtz on train with us. On Friday, August 18, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Very Warm. Arose at 7:00. Went down to Aunt Florence's with Chauncey. Met Patsy Craft's wife and Leslie. Talked to Max at store. Met Byrd Carper. Bob and I watched the boys play croquet. I took pictures at Bel Air. Met Bill Bedinger. Wrote cards home. Ate dinner and supper at Pearl Elmore's with Bob Kelly and Aunt Fannie Elmore. On Saturday, August 19, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Very Warm. Arose at 7 a.m. Shaved and went with Bob and Chauncey to Ed's house. Took pictures. Ed ate dinner with us. Very sleepy in afternoon. Bob left at 4 o'clock p.m. for Cincinnati. Wrote Mary a letter. After supper, "John D" and I went seining from 7 to 9:30. J.D. stayed at Aunt Mary's with me tonight. Mrs. Hampton and Annah went home. I really thought that I could not read Bonnie's handwriting again when he wrote that he and John D. went seining. I tried to make it all kinds of different things, because I didn't know what seining was. When spell-check didn't catch it, I figured out that it must indeed be a word and so I looked it up and found that seining is to fish with a net vertically in the water. The net has sinkers on the bottom and floaters on the top. After finding that out, it made sense that they went fishing. Bonnie is I suppose in New Castle, to visit family with all the Elmore last names we are reading about. I think it is neat that he went through Buchanan, as that is where I now pastor a church.

Monday, August 16, 2010

Sewing a Dress

On Tuesday, August 15, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cloudy Rain. Arose at 7:20. Went to Jett's office. Ate lunch at Mrs. Raines' and shaved. Mrs. Toombs making Mary's dress. Mrs. R, Aunt Annah, Annah and Mrs. Hampton spent day with Mrs. Hughes. I got telegram from R.E. Elmore. We all went to Auntie Airheart's at night. I met Uncle Bob. Ate supper at Raines'. Annah and her mother spent night with us. On Wednesday, August 16, 1916 Bonnie wrote: Raining. Arose at 7:30 a.m. Walked to work in rain at 8:30. Miss Lizzie Linkenhoker called me on phone. Finished reading "When a Man's a Man". Went to station to meet Robert but he came on #16. I shaved at 8 p.m. Esther Lakes came over and sewed some. Mrs. Hampton and Annah down in p.m. We retired at 11 o'clock. In 2010 we have been getting several afternoon thunderstorms with heavy rain. I wonder what kind of dress Nanny is having made? If I haven't mentioned it before we called Mary, "Nanny". There are some Linkenhoker's that currently go to Springwood Baptist in Buchanan, small world I guess. Did the #16 train not come into the station? If not, where did it go?

Saturday, August 14, 2010

New Suit and Picnic in the Park

On Monday, August 14, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Chilly-Cool. Arose at 7:20. Wore new suit and carried my lunch to work. "Deutschland" is reported destroyed. Ate lunch at office and went to "American". Indexed and filed correspondence and wrote up index cards. Aunt Annah, Mrs. Raines, Mrs. Hampton, Annah, Mary, and I and kids ate supper at Mountain Park at 6 o'clock p.m. Came home on car at 9:30 p.m. Jake and McDermott were at Mtn. Park. A big day, as Bonnie wore a new suit to work and took his lunch to work which he didn't usually do. He usually comes home for lunch. The extra time allowed him to go see a movie at lunch time and that allowed him to go for a picnic in the park with his family. The "Deutschland" was a German merchant submarine that we discussed earlier. I don't think it was destroyed on this date in 1916. It may have been captured and/or re-commissioned as it goes on to be a German military submarine with I believe torpedo chutes added.

Friday, August 13, 2010

Watermelon

On Saturday, August 12, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Hot-Sultry. Arose at 7:20. Got to work 8:35. Mr. Schick back. Capt. R.F. Boxley in the office. I wrote Lena, shaved after dinner and cut weeds in back yard. All went up to Mrs. Raines at night. I took a bath there and went up town. Met Howard Fisher and came home at 11 o'clock. On Sunday, August 13, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Warm-Rain. Arose at 8 a.m. Read paper. We all went up to Mrs. Raines' for dinner. Ate chicken. I went over home and ate supper. Papa was there. Mary, Aunt Annah, Annah Hampton, Mrs. Hampton, and Mrs. Raines rolled children out up town. We ate watermelon and came home at 9:30 p.m.

YMCA

On Wednesday, August 9, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Raining. Arose at 6:30. Cut weeds in back yard. Cut my finger on lawn mower. Got to work at 8:45 a.m. Got a card from Chauncey Elmore. Didn't write a single letter today. Mr. Raitt at home in afternoon. Went to YMCA with Harry Crimes and looked at pool. Talked to Nettie Fisher and Mrs. Elizabeth Farley. Norman is 18 months old today. On Thursday, August 10, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Very Hot. Arose at 7 a.m. Got to work 8:40. Annah Lee is 7 months old today. Bought Harold Bell Wright's book "Where a Man's a Man" at Caldwell-Sites. Paid gas bill for Mr. J.W. Raitt. Went to Station. Mrs. Hampton and Annah came in. I brought Norman on car to Mrs. Raines at 2 p.m. Ate supper there. Aunt Lou came home with us. Harry took Annah to "Roanoke Theater". On Friday, August 11, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Sunny-Hot. Arose at 7 a.m. Got to work 8:35. Norman walked to corner with me. Mr. J.I. Zobrist in the office. Mrs. Hampton, Annah and Mrs. Raines ate dinner with us today. I came home on car at noon. Took Norman's sandals back to shoe store. Rained hard in evening and lightning flashed freely. "Buck" Drabbell drove me home in Mr. Hurst's car.

Chauncey and Pie

On Sunday, August 6, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Very Hot Day. Arose at 7 a.m. Went to church at 11 o'clock with Lewis Smith. Went to Bill Beamer's at 4 p.m. After supper we went over home from 7 to 9:30. Mama spoke of Skin being sick. Mrs. Purdy came over. Took Lewis to the office and wrote Andrew Beamer a short letter. Went home at ten o'clock. Ate some pie. On Monday, August 7, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Very Sultry (Rain), Awfully hot. Arose at 7 a.m. Lewis Smith arose at 6:30 and went to Mayhew's store and got some bananas. After breakfast he went to Beamers. Went to First National Bank and got revenue stamp and notes for Mr. Raitt. Didn't write any letters this morning. Grayson Howell fixed light on our front porch and in Aunt Annah's room. Mr. Childress down. Chauncey Elmore spent night at home. On Tuesday, August 8, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Hot-Sunny. Arose at 6:30. Chauncey Elmore wouldn't eat any breakfast. Sent groceries home. Wrote Bob Elmore. Got letter from Frank Fisher and answered it. Mr. Schick left on #3. Chauncey Elmore didn't come home with me. Shaved at 6:30. We went up to Mrs. Raines' at 8:00. Mary gave Mr. Raines $1.00. Got letter from Hamptons about coming down.

Thursday, August 5, 2010

Walk to Bank

On Saturday, August 5, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Hot-Sunny. Arose 7:30. Got to work 8:45. Mr. Raitt came in. Worked on yard in afternoon. Lewis Smith came in on #3 and came down home. We ate supper and went up town to the "American" Theater. Met Jake and Everett. Talked to Everett from 9:30 to 1:30. Walked to 1st National Bank and came home to bed at 11:00 p.m. I am a little confused on Bonnie's times. I am guessing he talked to Everett from 9:30 in the morning until 1:30 in the afternoon. He doesn't always write these things down in order, as I have discovered before. I guess working on Saturday was pretty common back then. Also, a long break in the middle of the day was also apparently common. Bonnie wrote about this yesterday, when talking about the floods. We had strong storms here in Roanoke, on August 4 in 2010 as well.

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Storm

On Friday, August 4, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cool-Pleasant. Arose at 7:30. Got a card from Chauncey Elmore. Violent electric storm today at 2:30 p.m. All streets flooded. I slept until 3:30 p.m. Got to work at 4 o'clock. John Lane in. Told me goodbye. Much mud on streets after the heavy rain. Got my razor from Baley and shaved at night. Mr. Raitt came in from Mullins, W.Va. and Honaker.

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

Phone Out

On Thursday, August 3, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Hot-Hazy. Arose 7:30. Rec'd letter from Prof. E.M. Coulter regarding diploma. Mr. Raitt left for Mullins, W.VA. Sir Rodger Casement hanged in England. Talked to Jake. Sent Dr. Davis $2.00. Paid phone bill and ordered taken out. Wrote up an agreement. Rode to work in car with Ed. Gregory and R.R. Fairfax at noon. Lots of stuff to write about. I would like to know more about the diploma. I do not know where Grand-daddy went to college. The hanging in England also arouses some curiosity. Man, pay the phone bill and then order to have it taken out. I wonder what happened there? I looked up the "Deutschland" leaving Baltimore reference from yesterday and found a long article on Wikipedia about it, which was really interesting. The "Deutschland" was a German merchant submarine that made it through the English Channel undetected and brought trade items to the US. It was warmly welcomed and the crew was even treated to fancy dinners while in America. This was near the start of World War 1 and of course later on, German and US relations deteriorated and the "Deutschland" was even confiscated and turned into a German military U-boat. Lots of interesting stuff.

Monday, August 2, 2010

Tan Shoe Polish

On Wednesday, August 2, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cool-Cloudy. Arose at 7:15. Got to work 8:35. We ate lunch at Mrs. Raines' today. "Deutschland" left Baltimore. Ate supper at Mrs. Raines'. Walked Norman around street. Went home at 8:30 p.m. Read "Pictorial" Review. Work pretty slow in office today. Talked to Jean Brown. Got tan shoe polish. Whew! This has been a busy summer in 2010. I think I am now caught up on missed entries and hopefully can get back to doing this more on a daily basis. I guess in 1916 it was the day to eat at the Raines'. Also sounds like work has been really slow for Bonnie for almost a week now. The "Deutschland" reference interests me because apart from the Elmore side of my family, everyone else is German. I will need to do a little research. What a hoot that Grand-daddy even makes notes of getting tan shoe polish!

Sunday, August 1, 2010

Letters

On Sunday, July 30, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Bright-Pleasant. Arose at 8 a.m. Spread lime. Went to church. Chicken, fried for dinner. Went up to Mrs. Raines' after dinner. Took Norman on car. Read New York Journal and ate supper there. Very hot day. Mrs. Raines and Aunt`Annah went to St. Charles Hospital and came home at 9 o'clock. Didn't go over home today. On Monday, July 31, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Sunny-Hot. Arose at 7 a.m. Went after milk. Went to Telegraph Department. Received a letter from Frank Fisher. Mrs. Raines and Harry ate dinner with us today. Mr. Raitt returned fro Cincinnati. Wrote R.E. Elmore and Myrtle English. Wrote Frank Fisher. Pay day today. Mary and I went to the "American" at night. This has been an awfully hot day. End of month note for July 1916: German submarine docked at Norfolk July 9th. Big parade on 4th. Dr. Gale died. Carranza sends friendly note to N.S. soldiers moving to border. Allies making big drives in Europe. July has not been any hotter than June. Norman has been quite sick with cutting teeth and his stomach. Mrs. Hetty Green, world's richest woman died with paralysis in New York City. Epidemic of Infantile Paralysis raging in New York. On Tuesday, August 1, 1916, Bonnie Elmore wrote: Raining. Warm-Cloudy. Arose at 6:30. Cut grass in front yard. Paid some bills. Last night Mary and I went to the "American" Theater. Mrs. Raines down. Mrs. Huff came in. Bought peaches from Hambrick. Letter from Bob Elmore. Mrs. R down in afternoon. Wrote Chauncey Elmore a letter. Shaved at night. Talked to John Mason about Skin. Today is 2nd anniversary of European war.

Saturday, July 31, 2010

Cake and Ice Cream

On Thursday, July 27, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Raining-Cloudy. Arose at 7:30. Very heavy downpour of rain at 5;30 this morning. Walked to town with Roy Waskey and Clyde Driscoll. No work stirring. Mr. Schick went to Bluefield on train #3 at 4:45. Talked to Skin and Lawrence Sullivan on street about going to Washington. Thunder and dark at 5 p.m. Borrowed sickle from Mr. Raines and cut part of weeds in back yard. Cool. On Friday, July 28, 1916 Bonnie wrote: Warm-sultry. Arose at 7:20. Read "Ladies Home Journal" in office-August. Got whetstone at Humphreys-Webber Store. Brought 10 cents worth of ice cream home. Mary went up to Mrs. Raines' at 5:00 p.m. and Mrs. R came back with her and brought cake. I finished cutting weeds in back yard. Wrote a letter to Bob Elmore at Tip Top, VA. On Saturday, July 29, 1916 Bonnie wrote: Cloudy-damp. Arose at 7:30. Went to post office for Mr. Raitt. Talked to Howard Fisher. Got home to lunch at 3 p.m. Cut grass. Bought lime at Tinnell's. Went to Semones' for Mrs. Mullen. Got tobacco at Mayhew's store. Helped Mr. Brown fix sewer pipe. Harry Raines down. Got card from Skin in Washington, D.C. Also R.E. Elmore. Shaved at Mrs. R at 8:30 took Norman along.

Monday, July 26, 2010

Slow, Sad Day

On Wednesday, July 26, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Hot and Sultry. Cloudy. Arose at 7:15. Met Bill Fisher and got to office at 8:40 a.m. Work slow today. Mary feeling ill. Work in office is very slow today. Mary, Aunt Annah, and kids went up to Mrs. R's at 5 p.m. Electrical rain at 6:30 p.m. Aunt Duck spent day with Momma. I talked to Howard Fisher. Mary came home at 8 o'clock. Retired at 10:30. In 2010 news is breaking of 2 firefighter line of duty deaths in neighboring Franklin County Virginia. A very sad day.

Sunday, July 25, 2010

Sore

On Monday, July 24, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cloudy-Sultry. Arose at 7:20 a.m. Got to work 8:30. Raining today. Feeling quite sore from effects of riding horse in Bedford. Member of Co. F court-martialed. Went by Mrs. Raines' at 6 p.m. and shaved. Read "Woman's World" and paper. Very cool at night and damp. Aunt Annah went to St. Charles hospital in afternoon. On Tuesday, July 25, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Hot-Sultry. rose at 7:30. Met Howard Fisher and got to office at 8:45. Wrote Lewis Smith. Steak for lunch. Wrote mail for Capt. Anderson. Indexed and filed correspondence. Received a card from Bob Elmore. W.B. Bates came in. Rolled Norman around after supper. Talked to Bill Fisher until 7 o'clock in Elmwood Park. Mrs. Raines came down at night.

Friday, July 23, 2010

Trip to Bedford

On Tuesday July 18, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cool-Cloudy. Arose at 7:30. Got to work at 8:30. Very bad headache. Norman feeling weak and "all in". Work was very slack all day. Wrote 3 letters for F.P. Turner. Mrs. Raines and Aunt Annah went to St. Charles hospital at 7:30. I rolled Norman out from 7:30 to 8:30. Shaved at night. Mrs. Raines came down with Aunt Annah and left at 9:30 p.m. On Wednesday, July 19, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Sultry, close. Arose at 7:15. Got to work 8:30. Wrote letter for Mr. Turner. Mary, Aunt Annah, and I ate supper at Mrs. Raines. I took Norman up on car at Noon. Ms. Hurst Blanch Mr. and Mrs. Price Hurst ate dinner at Mrs. Raines'. Mr. Schick left for Wayne C.H. on #3 this p.m. I wrote stuff for Mr. Wiltsee. Wrote Lena a letter about trip to her home Sat. On Thursday, July 20, 1916 Bonnie wrote: Pleasant Day. Arose at 6:30. Rolled Norman to Mrs. Raines' and got vegetables. Spoke to Marjorie Merchent. Got to work at 8:30. Wrote to Frank Fisher. Wrote for Mr. Wiltsee. Talked to Skin. Aunt Annah, Mary and I took kids up to Mrs. Raines' after supper. I shaved and took a bath up there. Woodmen of the World held a parade at night. On Friday, July 21, 1916 Bonnie wrote: Very Warm. Arose at 7 a.m. Rolled Norman out Roger's Pond Road and back. Mr. Raitt away today-fishing. No correspondence. Mr. Schick came back from Wayne. Mrs. Raines and Harry took lunch with us today. Wrote for Mr. Wiltsee. Rain, thunder and lightning at night. Aunt Annah and Mrs. R went to hospital to have finger dressed. We retired at 11 o'clock. On Saturday, July 22, 1916 Bonnie wrote: Very Hot. Carter Thompson in. Arose at 7:30. Got to work at 8:45. Preparing to leave on train #4 for Bedford City. Made up payrolls. Mr. Schick gave me $3 for eggs and butter. Mary phoned to me. Met Edison Lockard on train #4. Walked up town. Met Jess and Luther at Warehouse. Rode to Lena's in buggy with Jess and Louis Smith. Caught in big electric storm. On Sunday, July 23, 1916 Bonnie wrote: Bedford, VA. Very Hot. Thunder. No Rain. Arose at 7:00. Went over to Mr. Fisher's and ate dinner. Lewis Smith there. Met Miss Burroughs and brother. Louis Smith, Andrew Beamer and I rode horses to station and I missed no. 3. Met a Mr. Giles and son and walked up track to Elk"s Home. Came home on #5 at 8:40 with Frank Nelson Jr. and Tom Mayo. Mary sick at night. Kids ate well.

Monday, July 19, 2010

Aunt Annah's finger

On Sunday, July 16, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Raining. Floods over country. Arose at 7 a.m. Dr. Burks came and dressed Aunt Annah's finger. Mrs. Raines came down. I went up there and took a bath. Annah Lee sick. Went over home in afternoon at 4 o'clock (rain). Mrs. Raines came down home after supper. I ate supper at Mamma's and came home at 9 o'clock. Very damp at night. Raining. On Monday, July 17, 1916 Bonnie wrote: Warm-Sultry. Arose at 7 a.m. Went by Mrs. Raines and got paper. Got to work at 8:30. Mr. George Dunglinson Jr. came in office. I filed and indexed letters. Loam came home from Selma, VA. Rain in afternoon. Dark at night with lightning. I rolled Norman up to Mrs. Raines and came home 8:30. Esther Lakes came over and stayed until 9:30 p.m.

Saturday, July 17, 2010

Chickens

On Friday, July 14, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Very Hot. Arose at 7 a.m. Worked steadily all day for Mr. W.P. Wiltsee on "Instructions for Engineers". Completed same at 6:10 p.m. Raining at night. Got home from work at 7 p.m. Aunt Annah and Mrs. Raines went to have Dr. Burks cut Aunt Annah's finger at 8 p.m. I went to station for Mr. Schick to see about chickens. On Saturday, July 15, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Very Hot. Rain. Arose at 7:30. Aunt Annah's finger giving her trouble. Got to work 8:45. Real all morning. Wrote a letter to W.J. Jenks. DeMoss Taylor brought barometer in for Mr. Schick. Rain. Rain. Rain. Mr. Schick away all a.m. Shaved at 4 o'clock. Mr. and Mrs. Raines came down at night and left at 9 p.m.

Friday, July 16, 2010

Norman Cheerful All Day

On Sunday, July 9, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Raining all day. Arose at 8:30. Norman is 17 months old today. Stayed at home entire day. Rained steadily. Ate watermelon. Read N.Y. Journal. Mrs. Raines and Edna LaBrea came down from 7 to 9 p.m. Went with Edna to the car. Very cool today. Norman alright now and was cheerful all day. On Monday, July 10, 1916 Bonnie wrote: Rain-Cloudy. Arose at 7:30. Annah Lee is 6 months old today. Got to work at 8:45. Dode Rowan came in to see Capt. Matched up papers for "W.P.W." Annah Lee is sick today. Dr. Burks came to operate on Aunt Annah's finger. I wrote Leva and mailed Norman's picture. Major E.R. Moore died. Norman talked to me on phone. Shaved at night. On Tuesday, July 11, 1916 Bonnie wrote: Damp-Warm. Arose at 6 a.m. Annah Lee sick Pat Foy came in. Wrote part of "Instructions to Engineers". Aunt Annah received her check from Huntington. At night, Frank Lakes came over before supper. We went up street together and went to the "Comet" theater. Came home at 9 o'clock. Annah lee sick. Retired at 11 o'clock. On Wednesday, July 12, 1916 Bonnie wrote: Very Warm. Arose at 7 a.m. Got gum at Joe Milan's and to work at 8:30. Ate dinner and supper at Mrs. Raines'. Mary and Aunt Annah spent day there. Aunt Annah bought $25 buffet for Mary. I talked to Sam Hartman about camping trip. Mr. Schick left on #13 for Saltville. Mr. Raitt's Aunt went to Cincinnati. Pretty full moon. On Thursday, July 13, 1916 Bonnie wrote: Very Warm. Arose at 7:30. Got work 8:30. Worked steadily all day. Very hot. Frank E. Lakes brought his lawn mower over and helped me cut our grass. Got pair pants from Sam Harbour. Mrs. Hurst, Blanche and Mrs. Austin came down after supper. Frank Lakes and I went to "American" Theater and came home on car at 10:30 p.m. Ok, I know. I got really behind. About 8 days behind. I have made up 5 of those here and will do a couple a day until we get caught up. Sorry, This has been a really busy week with work and church meetings. Also, one computer at the house is not working. Not much time to comment but oil leak has stopped! Also, the buffet that is mentioned in July 12 entry may be the one that is still in our family. Wow! How neat is that.

Thursday, July 8, 2010

Vacation Pictures

On Saturday, July 8, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Warm-Close. Arose at 7:30. Got to work at 8:35. Mr. Davenport came in. Harry Crumpacker showed me pictures of vacation. Cut weeds in back yard from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Went with Norman to Mrs. Raines, shaved and took a bath. Went uptown at 8 p.m. Talked to Jake, McDermott, Howard F and Lawrence Sullivan. Came home on car. I wonder how Bonnie enjoyed the vacation pictures? Caleb and I went next door tonight to see the neighbor's new travel trailer and also got hear vacation stories of their trip out west.

Wednesday, July 7, 2010

Papa in Trouble.

On Thursday, July 6, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cool-Pleasant. Arose 7:30. Got to work at 8:45 a.m. Went to Joe's for tobacco for Mr. Raitt and myself. Wrote letters for Capt. Anderson. Mrs. Magann and Ms. Booze down at night. Mary went uptown and bought kitchenware at Woolworth's I went over home at 6:30. Papa in trouble. Got hair cut. Retired at 10:30. On Friday, July 7, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Hot-Sunny. Arose at 7:00. R.S. Kerfoot in. Wrote letters for Capt. Anderson. Norman is much better today. Mr. Schick attended Dr. Gale's funeral this p.m. I talked to Mazie and Herman Merchant in evening. Cut grass from 7 p.m. to 8:20 p.m. Went up to Mrs. Raines' after Mary, Aunt Annah and children. Retired at 10:30. It sure has not been Cool-Pleasant here in 2010. At 100 degrees today! I don't know what Papa's trouble was in 1916. That would have been my Great-Great, Grandfather. Maybe we will find out more in coming days. I hope everything was o.k. I have been very intrigued by my reading in Acts recently. Paul gave up his freedom in Chapters 24 and following but also gained an audience with people that otherwise he never would have in order to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with them. What about our preferences? Are we willing to give those up in order to follow God's will? Wow.

Monday, July 5, 2010

Parson and Doctor Deaths

On Wednesday, July 5, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cool-Sunny. Parson Burroughs died at Bristol, Tenn. Arose at 7:30. Got to work at 8:30. Got money and letter from Blaine. Took letter to train. Wrote to Blaine. Gave money and letter to Skin at noon. Dr. Jos. Gale died today. I raked yard after supper and went up to Mrs. R after Mary, children and Aunt Annah. I shaved up there. We came home at 9:30. Nice cool night. I sure am glad it cooled off some in 1916 because it sure has not cooled off here in 2010. Very Hot and Dry and the oil spill in the gulf continues, now at day 77. Yesterday was Beth's birthday and we went to see fireworks at Parkway Wesleyan Church where you can see both Vinton's fireworks and Roanoke's. Good day at church. Good to be back after a week at the beach.

Sunday, July 4, 2010

Early Riser

On Saturday, July 1, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Very hot day. Arose at 7:30. Sam Mason drove me up town in his car. Norman continues ill. I paid some bills. Cut some grass. Skin phoned me. Loam and Jake went to Clifton Forge today. Howard Fisher came to the house and cut grass for me. I shaved and we went up town and I paid some bills. We went to "American" theater. Stayed home at night. On Sunday, July 2, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Very hot day. Arose at 7:20. Rolled Norman around. Took bath at Mrs. Raines. Dr. Davis came to examine Norman. Very hot. Bill Fisher phoned. Didn't go home. Read Washington Post and Phila. Press at Raines'. Started home and rain caught us at corner Dale Avenue and we came back to Mrs. R's. Ate supper Mrs. R's. On Monday, July 3, 1916 Bonnie wrote: Very hot day. Arose at 7:25. Norman better. Blair Pitzer drove me to his office in buggy to pay $2.50 - moving. Talked to Howard Fisher and Papa. Dr. Davis called to see Norman. Roanoke Gas Light man came to estimate on moving gas stove. I shaved at night. Went to American at night. Got candy and cigars at Joe's. Came home on car at 10:30 p.m. On Tuesday, July 4, 1916 Bonnie wrote: Pleasant cool. Note from Mexico received. Arose at 5:20. Cut and raked grass. Went with Mrs. R, Mrs. Annie R, and Aunt Annah to see parade. Minnie Sullivan in it. Ate chicken and ice cream at Mrs. Raines for diner and supper. Went over home at 4:30 p.m. Skin drove me to Mrs. R's in automobile. Mr. Raines cut Norman's hair. Governor Stuart in the parade with his staff.

Thursday, July 1, 2010

Raines

On Friday, June 30, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Very Hot. Arose at 7:30. Wrote 2 descriptions. Talked to Jake. Paid off today. Weather fiercely hot today. Big, dark clouds and heavy rain in evening at 5:30. Mr. and Mrs. Raines came down after supper and left at 9 o'clock. I dug up weeds from back yard brick walk. Read until 11 p.m. and retired. Norman continues ill. End of month note for June 1916: Company "F" left Roanoke for Richmond Va. en route to Mexican border. Much excitement and very large crowd at station. June has been rather cold and rainy. Trouble over Mexican situation stirred up. President ordered out all companies of state troops for duty on Rio Grande border. Wow. I am mainly impressed that Mr. AND Mrs. Raines came down to Bonnie and Mary's together. We don't usually see that too much.

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Very Hot

On Wednesday, June 28, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Very Hot. Arose at 7:25. Wrote estimate on Brown's Creek. Carranza released 17 negro soldiers from Corrigal fight. Lt. D. Lightner and 5 men left for Richmond, VA. Rain in evening. Elsie Brown was married tonight. I shaved. Met Skin. Sent food over home. Mrs. Raines down at 9 p.m. Norman very ill and vomiting frequently. On Thursday, June 29, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Very Hot. Arose at 7:30. Got to work 8:30. Norman ill. Harry and Mrs. Raines dined at lunch with us today. Very hot day. Completed work for Mr. Wiltsee. Talked to Howard Fisher at noon. Paris Leslie called me up on phone and ate supper with us. Stayed until 9:30 and left for Mays Leslie's. Mrs. Raines down. Lightning freely.

Sunday, June 27, 2010

Fire Insurance

On Sunday, June 25, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Raining slowly. Arose 8:30 a.m. Paris Leslie called me up by phone. I went to First Christian Church. Talked to Frank Fisher about war. In afternoon we went up to Mrs. Raines'. Loam came by. Also Paris Leslie and Fred Hurst. Read "Washington Post" and ate supper at Mrs. Raines'. Mrs. Raines went down home with Mary and Aunt Annah. Retired at 10:30. On Monday, June 26, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Sunny. Arose at 7:30. Got work 8:30. Wrote "Instructions to Engineers". Paris Leslie phoned Mary he was going to Eggleston. I shaved at Mrs. Raines' at night. She came down. Bob McLellan came down home and we talked over fire insurance. I read until 11:30 and retired 12:00. On Tuesday, June 27, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Very Hot. Negro troopers from Fort Myer came through. Arose at 6:30. Mary and I left home at 7:30 and went to station to see soldiers off. Told Frank Fisher and Capt. Figgott good-bye. Howard Fisher and I met. Also Aunt Dora, Net, Edith and Papa. Large crowd. Mayor Brown and Sergeant Richardson spoke. Cut grass after supper and Mary rolled Norman up to her Mother's Retired at 10:30. Glad Grand-daddy is thinking over fire insurance.

Thursday, June 24, 2010

Mexican trouble

On Thursday, June 22, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Warm-Sunny. Arose at 7:30. Got to work 8:30. Got plug tobacco at Joe Milan's. Indexed and filed correspondence. Mary & Aunt Annah went to Mrs. Raines at 11 a.m. We all ate lunch and supper there. Very hot today. Roanoke militia getting ready to entrain for Richmond, Va. I sat up at home and read until 11 o'clock. Retired at 11:15 p.m. On Friday, June 23, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Cool & Sunny. Arose at 7:30. Talked to Thomas Poindexter and got to office at 8:45. Mary rolled Norman to Mrs. R's at 5 p.m. I came by there and shaved. Talked to Paris Leslie. Took hoe home & dug up grass from around edge of brick walk. Everybody excited over Mexican trouble. I saw skin and gave him 10 cents worth of 1 cent stamps. Retired at 11 p.m. On Saturday, June 24, 1916 Bonnie wrote: Warm-sultry. Arose at 7:30. Got to work at 8:40. Mr. Crawford came in to have me help Mr. Wiltsee out. Heavy electrical storm in afternoon. I cut weeds off walks. Mr. Raines came down and brought eggs, rolls, etc. I went to creamery at 8 p.m., and took bath at Mrs. Raines' and shaved. Mrs. Raines came down from 8 to 10. I read paper until 11 o'clock. It's been rally hot here in 2010 too. Mid 90's. We are heading to beach on Saturday. Oil continues to flow in the gulf. Obama accepts resignation of US army General McChrystal who was commander in Afghanistan. Replaces him with Gen. Petraeus. USA soccer team won game in World Cup tournament in exciting fashion to advance to the next round. Right now, everybody in the country seems to be soccer fans. That is pretty cool, but probably won't last long after the tournament is over. I have been reading in 2 Kings recently. I read the other day about Naaman who was cured by Elisha from leprosy, but he seemed a little upset that Elisha did not meet him face to face and did not tell him to do more than just wash in the Jordan river. Which, he did and he was healed. Sometimes we do that too. We think if God is going to act on our behalf then it should be something big and spectacular instead of just a simple act of obedience on our part. Simply obey.

Monday, June 21, 2010

Patrolman Shot

On Wednesday, June 21, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Warm-Sunny. Arose at 7 o'clock. Shaved before breakfast. Papa came to house. Paris walked to railroad with me. Mr. Schick in office. Patrolman Leverett shot to death by a negro last night in N.E. city. I went over to Mamma's from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Completed Honaker Lmbr. Co. deeds. Wrote index cards. Carranza men and Americans fight. Mrs. Laura LaBrea down. I don't have a lot of time this evening to make many comments but want to do some checking on the Line of Duty Death for the Roanoke City Police officer and the mention of Americans fighting.

Sunday, June 20, 2010

On the border

On Sunday, June 18, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Sunny-warm. Arose at 8 a.m. Papa and Denny Lawlor came to our house. Papa and I went with Denny to station. Came by Mrs. Raines and shaved and took a cold bath. We went up to Mrs. R in p.m. & I met Paris Leslie on Memphis Special 5:40 also Leslie kids. All ate supper at Mrs. Raines. I took nap on lounge. Home at 9 p.m. On Monday, June 19, 1916 Bonnie wrote: Fair-Warm. Arose at 7:15 a.m. Extra paper out regarding Pres't. Wilson sending entire National militia to Mexican border for war. Mr. Schick came to office at 9:15 ill. Roanoke militia mobilizing. Papa came down home and picked cherries and primed porch on front. Ate lunch with us. Met Paris Leslie and Howard Fisher at 6 p.m. Retired 11:15 p.m. On Tuesday, June 20, 1916 Bonnie wrote: Cloudy-warm. Paris Leslie spent night with us. Arose at 7:20. Got to work at 8:40. Mrs. Schick phoned me Mr. Schick ill and would be at office after dinner. Met Paris Leslie at 5:30. Got a haircut and we came home on car. Went to the "Roanoke" Theater at 8:30. Fine pictures. Papa ate lunch at home and painted porch. Paris and I stopped by Mrs. Raines at night on way to town. Came back at 11:00 p.m. More world history by Bonnie. This is interesting for the fact that on May 25, 2010 President Obama ordered 1200 National Guard troops to the US-Mexico border. In 2010, it is to help with illegal border crossings by immigrants. In 1916 The US was close to war with Mexico because of raids by Pancho Villa. Also, in 2010 there is a lot of drug violence in Mexico that threatens to spill into the USA. Father's Day was today. Good day at church. We had an emotional presentation of Father of the year to Don Barger. His family was on the phone. His grand-daughter is in Atlanta recovering from a serious car accident from several months ago.

Thursday, June 17, 2010

Out Late

On Saturday, June 17, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Fair-cool. Arose 7 a.m. Pretty good day in the office. Strung pictures, and carried bucket of cherries to Momma. Ate supper over home. Met Howard Fisher at N&W fountain at 10 o'clock p.m. and he walked to the railroad xng. with me. Also met and talked to Capt. Rowan at Methodist Church. I am not sure what stringing pictures means, but we still have cherries. Seems like Bonnie was out late and not sure why they went to the railroad exchange so late at night. Read today from 1 Kings 18 about Elijah's showdown with the prophets of Baal. What a neat and powerful story. Again rather counter-intuitive as Elijah poured water over the altar 3 times. Also from Acts 11 neat to see how Christianity spread among the Gentiles.

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

Cherry Harvest!

On Thursday, June 15, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Raining. Sent Norman's pictures to Leslies and Loam. Arose at 7:20. Helped Mr. Woodson fix Davenfold and pain him quarter. Mr. Raines came down at night and fixed pantry door and put up center table. He gave Norman 10 cents for his bank. Rained all day. We have been having cherry pies for two days. Filed and indexed mail and copied descriptions. Retired at 10:30. On Friday, June 16, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Damp-Cloudy. Arose at 7:15. Mr. Schick came back from Phila. feeling ill. Walked to work with Cromer Kinsey. Picked cherries. Put strips on screen door to back porch. Mrs. Raines came down after supper and stayed until 9 o"clock. Very dark night. Retired at 10:15. Mary feeling badly. Bonnie has still been busy with home repair chores, or at least getting someone else to do them, which is how I operate too. Wow, I would really like to have some fresh cherry pie. I bet Mary and Mrs. Raines made some good cherry pie and sounds like maybe they could have used some help getting rid of the cherries. Yesterday, June 15, was our 19th wedding anniversary. We went out to eat at Abuelo's and then just enjoyed the kids being at Grandma's. Gulf oil spill still going on. President Obama met with BP officials today and addressed the nation last night. World Cup soccer still going on Spain and South Africa lost today. USA plays again on Friday. I plan to take the day off and watch the game and do yard work. Read today from 1 Kings 17 about Elijah and the widow. Again another example of how following God, through Jesus and the Holy Spirit is often counter-intuitive. We have to learn to lean not on our own understanding but to follow in obedience the voice of God through the Holy Spirit. I think a davenfold is like a couch. When I did a Google search for davenfold, I actually came up witht his blog, as I have mentioned it before in here. That's cool I guess.

Monday, June 14, 2010

Raking

On Wednesday, June 14, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Warm-Sunny. Arose at 7 a.m. Raked front yard. Men papered pantry room. Colored small pictures for Harry Raines. Went to bank and took tax list to Court house. Mr. Raitt absent in afternoon. I raked back yard and side street. Mary and I rolled Norman up to Mrs. Raines and I took a bath. Came home 9:35.

Sunday, June 13, 2010

The Joys of Home Ownership

On Tuesday, June 13, 1916 Bonnie Elmore wrote: Sunshine. Arose at 7:15. Mr. Smallwood fixing porch. V.P.I. Special (2) went to Blacksburg. Wrote descriptions. Men came and paper kitchen and dining room. Went by Mrs. R and shaved 6 p.m. Talked Sam Thompson. C.D.T. in. Re-copied reqsn. for typewriter desk. Mrs. Raines bled. Mary went along. Cut grass and raked yard after supper. There is so much about this entry that I just do not understand today without actually being inside Grand-daddy's head. His sentences today...well, his phrases today are so short and choppy and some just don't seem to go together. Some time I need to put a picture of the actual diary on here so readers can see it. The space is small and I get that, but today everything is very choppy and the pencil writing gets very light as it is written. I will try to intrepret maybe a little a bit, but I will probably raise as many questions as you already have. Something has been wrong with the porch though I don't know what. We have been reading about materials being delivered for that and so today, Mr. Smallwood (funny name for a carpenter) got started on that repair. The V.P.I. special is a train that runs to what is today called Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, VA. This was a special run train that is apparently usually the #2 train. I don't know what the occassion was for today. Graduation at Tech maybe? While Mr. Smallwood fixes the porch there are also men wall papering the kitchen and dining room. Oh, the joys of home ownership. I am a little stumped as to why Bonnie seems to shave and bathe at other places so much, especially Mrs. Raines, his mother-in-law. Sam Thompson is a close friend of Bonnie's and C.D.T. is some sort of work colleague who was in the office today. I remember Bonnie writing a requisition for that typewriter desk before. Reckon somebody lost it? Or did it get denied at the time and so Bonnie is trying again. This last sentence is the one, I just don't get. I don't know why Mrs. R bled, and I don't know where she went that Mary went along. But, while they were gone, Bonnie mowed and raked the yard.