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Text
Hiram Fain
of Rogersville
His Diary
Edited by John N. Fain
The original of the diary is in the East Tennessee
Historical Society Collection in Knoxville, TN. Copies
have been placed in the Archives of Appalachia at
ETSU in Johnson City and the Rogersville Public
Library.
�Unpublished Work
Copyright 1994
John N. Fain
�Hiram Fain of Rogersville
•
His Diary - long version
1850-1870
Edited by John N. Fain
Beginning on June 15, 1850 and ending February 28, 1870 be kept a diary in a bound book (8 x 10"). The first few
pages also contain a record of births and deaths in bis family through 1880 comparable to what is usually put in a
family Bible.
Hiram was born May 19, 1807 as the third child of Nicholas and Sallie Gammon Fain. Hirams brother Richard Fain
was born in 1811 and bis wife Eliza kept diaries over a span of 50 years. The diaries are quite different as Hiram
tended to record the daily weather while Eliza recorded what the preacher said at church. While Hiram was older than
Richard be married 10 years after bis brother Richard married Eliza. Hiram married Sarah Petty on April 5, 1842 in
Fayette County, West Tennessee. Sarah was born in Northampton County, North Carolina on February 12, 1819
and the book says her maiden name was Sowerby. Springvale the borne of Hiram Fain still stands two miles East
of Rogersville along with the springbouse mentioned in this diary and a slave cabin on the old stage road (11 W
business) but across the road are two automobile dealerships.
Hiram and Sarah had children as follows:
An infant son born at George Powel's tavern on January 24, 1843 who died on February 21,
1843.
Ernest Fain was born on January 29, 1844 at Richard Pain's house in Rogersville."The
thermometer was 6° below zero". Ernest was married on March 30, 1869 at about 7 a.m by Rev.
R. S. Mullins at Bartlett, Shelby County "Tennessee to Sallie Anna Glover born on January 25,
1848 the daughter of Joseph S. and Lucy Bug Glover. They had a son Clarence Bartlett born at
Springvale, Hawkins Co. Tennessee on November 8, 1869. Frank Ernest Fain their second child
was born Nov. 27, 1873 at the home of his wifes father at Bartlett in Shelby County, Tennessee.
Lucie Fain was born on October 9, 1846 in the Bank House, Rogersville and married on
November 15, 1876 to Henry Smith at home (Springvale).
Nicholas Fain was born on August 6, 1849 and died on October 30, 1863 at Springvale (see
remarks about his death on the next page from the diary)
Ida Fain was born on December 21, 1851 at Springvale, Rogersville.
Sallie Fain was born on Sunday night April 9, 1854 at Springvale and married on January 15,
1880 to Powel Fain (a first cousin and child of Richard and Eliza Fain).
Cornelia Fain was born at Springvale on January 2, 1857 and died on November 15, 1863. (see
remarks about her death on the next page).
1
�Thomas Fain was born at Springvale on April 6, 1861 and died on December 10, 1863 (see
remarks about his death on the next page)
Deaths
Our son Nicholas Fain died on October 30, 1863 at twenty minutes before four o'clock in the
evening at our house, Springvale, Hawkins County Tennessee after an illness of three days of
diptheria, and was buried on Sunday the first (1st) day of November 1863 at the Second
Presbyterian Church in Rogersville, Tenn. he being fourteen years, two months and twenty four
days old. He was in his right mind to the very last moments of his existence, and expressed a
perfect willingness to die. To the question asked him by his mother, if he was willing to die, he
answered with a smile yes and said he was going to Heaven. His mother told him, he would go
where there would ne no more sickness, pain or trouble, nor be no more wars. Yes he said this
would be glorious. He showed no fear or dread of dying. he often said the Lords Prayer and dwelt
on "thy will be done". He was a brave and noble boy - of a higher order of intellect and a very
active temperament. His loss is deeply felt and missed by every member of the family. It is so
destroying to given one up so young and promising. It has created a void in our family circle than
can never again be supplied. He is in that grave from which none return.
Our daughter Cornelia Fain died of diptheria at our farm Springvale, Tennessee on Sunday
morning at nine o'clock on the fifteenth (15th) of November 1863 being six years, ten months and
sixteen days old. She was buried at the Second Presbyterian Church in Rogersville, Tennessee on
Monday evening the 17th of November. "Suffer the little children to come unto me and forbid them
not; for of such is the Kingdom of God.". This blessed text gives us an assurance that our sweet
little child is gone to heaven to join the song of angels in the choir of heaven forever.
)
Our youngest child, a noble boy, Thomas Cross Fain died on Thursday evening the tenth
(10th) of December 1863 of diptheria at Springvale Tennessee ten minutes after three o'clock being
two years, seven months and four days old. He was buried at the Second Presbyterian Church in
Rogersville on Friday evening the 11th of Dec. 63 after sun set. He was layed beside his brother
and sister who had just gone before him. Jesus "took them up in his arms, put his hands upon
them and blessed them". Tomy's organization, both mental and physical was of a high order, very
rarely equaled. When laid out in his grave hubiliments he looked the very picture of a sweet child
asleep. he was asleep in the arms of Jesus and angels guraded his spirit through the dark vale of
death to heaven, there to dwell forevermore. "He was one of those bright, loving children, who
shed sunshine around their path and joy and gladness" to all the household. He was the pet of all.
On two blank pages in the book between the family records and the start of the diary was the following written in
pencil and by a different hand.
Mr. Campbell's recipe for curing ham given to me B. L. Fain, Aug. 24 1921 at Mr. Campbell's house at the same
time he gave father this book.
Use a barren with hole in the side near the bottom. Have plug to fit the hole, pack hams in dry salt in the barren and
leave for four or five days. Take plug out ofbarrell and wash all salt and blood from barren. Replace plug. Fill the
barren with a brine strong enough to float an egg. Weigh hams down, leave in brine for five or six weeks. Remove
hams, wash and drain. Put about thirty gallons of water into a kettle, put about three double handfuls of red peppers
(break them up) into the water. Let the water come to a boil. Dip each ham into the pepper tea and leave for a few
minutes, lay ham on board to drain. When dry hang and smoke to amber color. After smoking lay hams on a board
and cover with black pepper then cover the peppers with com meal. Wrap in paper and place in bag then hang in
cool smokehouse.
2
�1850
Springvale 21st October 1850
Left home this day for Northhampton
County, North Carolina in company with Robert D. Powel who is taken a
drove of horses for sale. My business to North Carolina is attend as agent
for the heirs to a small estate of Lucy Sowerby deceased, my wife's
sister. The property came from her grandfather Nicholas Tynor deceased
by deed of gift to take effect at his death.
Saturday October 26, 1850 (snow) Crossed the Iron Mountain in Grayson,
County Virginia amidst a snow storm. It has snowed some during the night
previous and continued to snow all this day. In the evening it was very
cold with a severe wind.
Sunday October 27, 1850 This morning snow on the ground 2 inches deep,
cleared up during the day and more moderate after this all the way. Some
days nearly warm enough for summer.
Sunday November 10, 1850
Hendersonville.
Left
Robert Powel with
the
horses at
Monday Nov. 11, 1850 Got this evening to E. J. Peebles Esq. and stayed at
his house and Mr. Boones until I left for home. While there I sold the Negro
man Jerry to Mr. Boone for five hundred and fifty dollars ($550). I directed
him to sell the land at public sale on a note of six months, bearing
intrerest from date. No title to be made until payment is made - approved
security required.
December 4, 1850 Parted with Robert Powel this morning at E. J. Peebles.
I went to Garrysburg to take railroad for home. Went to Weldon this
evening on the Petersburg accomodation train. At this place paid my
passage to Charleston. S. Car. - $10.00.
December 5, 1850 Left Weldon at about three a.m. and reached Wilmington
about I p.m. and went immediately on the steam vessel Gov. Dudley and
soon got under way. Went down the Cape Fear river about 24 or 25 miles
before reaching the Atlantic ocean about sundown. The vessel went out to
sea, the first time I was ever on the "Deep Blue Sea".
)
3
�December 6, 1850 Reached Charleston a little before the middle of the
day. We should have got in by 7 this morning but the time was lost at sea
by a fog. The Capt. lay by until the fog dispersed. When the fog cleared
away we had a fine view of the Sea. There were around us some 15 or 1 8
vessels which came to view as the sky brightened.
Saturday Dec. 7, 1850 We left Charleston on the railroad around 10 a.m. fare to Augusta was $4. Stayed in Augusta till Sunday night about 9
o'clock (I was taken sick on yesterday) for Atlanta - fare $5, which we
reached the next morning about 9 o'clock. At Atlanta Georgia paid fare to
Chattanooga which we reached about 7 o'clock at night. I still continued
quite unwell and had to stay in Chattanooga for a boat until Friday when I
did get on board the Ellen White for Knoxville with a crowded boat.
Monday Dec. 15, 1850 Got to Knoxville this morning- Saturday. I got a
horse and left Knoxville about 11 o'clock in company with Wm. Alreeen and
Loony Gammon who came with with me on the boat from Chattanooga.
}
Tuseday December 17, 1850 On Tuesday evening nearly night I got home
having left home Monday 21st October 1850.
1851
January 1, 1851 A white heavy frost this morning, ice. The day was
tolerable pleasant
January 14 Last night quite cold, a heavy white frost this morning. Brother
Richard started for Clinch last evening. The day beautiful and sun shining ..
January 18, 1851 Brother George and Hiram Payne stayed last night with
me. A very cold morning and heavy frost last night. The day very cold.
George went home.
January 19, 1851 Last night was the coldest and the most severe freeze
this year, white frost in the dining room. The sun has come out, but still
quite cold. In the evening moderated a little.
4
�January 28, 1851 Cloudy this morning and sprinkling rain. Brother George
came over yesterday. Brother John with Isaac Allen came last evening.
February 2, 1851 This morning cloudy. Mr. Mat Haynes stayed last night
with us. John went with Mr. Haynes to Sneedwille. Richard went with
Major Herd to the same place. It sprinkled rain in the morning and in the
evening set in for a steady rain.
February 5, 1851 This morning cloudy - some frost with a little freeze.
The day got nearly clear with a west wind. I went to town this evening and
was initiated into the Lodge of 1.0.0.F.
February 11, 1851 It commenced raining at 9 p.m. at night, stopped during
the night this morning cloudy and cooler with a little sprinkle of snow.
Richard started over the mountains on yesterday and was to go a few days
with George and the horses. George was to start from the store this
morning.
February 16, 1851 Free George commenced working for me this morning at
the rate of $8 per month. The day sunshiney.
March 5, 1851 Planted Irish Potatoes in the garden this evening.
Fain and Wm. Gammon came to Richards last night.
Mrs. E.
March 13, 1851 Some frost this morning and a little cloudy. I was last
night at the 1.0.0.F. A beautiful day, cloudy again in the evening. Sarah
went today to G. R. Powels.
March 14, 1851 A heavy frost this morning and quite cool. Sarah came
home this evening.
March 28, 1851 This morning quite cloudy. Finished yesterday sowing the
field near the house with oats. Thomas Fain Jr. stayed with me last night
and started home this morning. The day cleared up and was very pretty.
Sunday April 6, 1851 This morning nearly clear and cool sunshiny day.
Wife and myself went to church today to hear Mr. Rogers preach.
)
5
�April 11, 1851 A little frosty and somewhat cloudy this morning. The day
pretty and sunshiney - planted the new ground patch in corn.
April 18, 1851 Frost this morning. The day mostly sunshiney - commenced
planting corn this evening in the Knob field.
Sunday April 20, 1852 Easter. Cloudy this morning and quite cool. The day
mostly sunshiney and quite cool, quite cloudy at sundown. Brother George
got out this evening having come from Copper Ridge yesterday.
April 25, 1851 I went on yesterday to George's store at Copper Ridge and
returned this evening.
April 23, 1851 Frost this morning. Sweet potatoes planted on the 23rd .
The day mostly sunshiney.
April 26, 1851 This morning cloudy. On yesterday a Mrs. Smith from Beech
Creek was put in jail charged with murdering her child. The child was
found on last Wednesday hid in a tree top with its throat cut, where it was
supposed to have been about nine days. Her husband went in Capt. Powel's
company to Mexico and died there consequently. This was a bastard child
but she denied having a child. The day warm.
April 27, 1851 (Sunday) This morning quite cool. The day clouds and
sunshine with considerable wind. I was sent for to old Mr. Sensabaughs to
draw his will, he being quite sick which I have done for him.
May 1, 1851 The sun shines out this morning with the prospect of a fair
day. Mostly clear, cold and windy. Brother George went home this morning.
Joseph Rhea took the cast of my wifes mouth this morning for the purpose
of setting in some teeth.
May 2, 1851 This morning quite a heavy frost and ice. It is quite cold. It is
thought the fruit is killed and corn and potatoes bitten.
June 18, 1851 Quite cool this morning. Brother George came over
yesterday and stayed last night with me. Started for Knoxville today and
got as far as Doctor Cockes. Very hot day.
6
�June 19, 1851 Reached Knoxville. This day very hot.
June 23, 1851 Left Knoxville this morning and got to Dandridge.
June 24, 1851 This morning at 2 o'clock attacked with dysentery.
June 25, 1851 Stayed still in Dandridge, better this evening
June 26, 1851 Started for home and reached here this evening .
June 27, 1851 I feel a good deal better this morning although I trailed 4 2
miles yesterday in a very hot sun. I found brother George here.
July 4, 1851 A fine pleasant morning. Brother John started yesterday to
Greene County. The day passed off without any celebration of any kind in
the county.
July 9, 1851 Bro. George who came over the night before went home
yesterday. Bro. John left this evening for Rogersville campground. Got in
all of my oats today
July 12, 1851 On Sunday morning Nicholas run against the window in the
upper room of the porch at store and made a very bad cut in his forehead,
with which he has suffered a good deal since. One eye so swollen as to
close it up entirely.
August 13, 1851 Nicholas appears to be a good deal relieved of his hurt.
Heavy clouds in the evening with thunder.
September 8, 1851 A heavy fog this morning. The day warm. George Hale,
James M. Horde, C. J. McKinney, William Miller and Jacob Miller met for
the purpose of valuing the lands belonging to my fathers estate according
to agreement among the heirs. They value the land 619 acres to be worth
$5,700 at least $700 more than it would bring in cash. That part of the
lands south of the stage road containing about 202 acres was set apart for
John H. Fain and valued at $1,300 leaving the balance of the land at $4,400
which is a great deal more than it would deal for in cash.
)
7
�Sept. 13, 1851 A heavy fog this morning. Gillenwater came early this
morning for me to go to John S. Brices, he being very sick. I went and found
he wished his will written which I wrote for him in accordance with his
direction. The day very hot.
Sunday September 14, 1851 This morning pleasant, but bids to be another
hot day. This last week has been the hottest week I can recollect of our
having in this county in this month. It has been more oppressive than
August. In the evening clouded up with lightning and thunder sprinked rain
a few minutes.
October 9, 1851 The day cleared up and was quite warm, in the sunshine.
Commenced putting in wheat yesterday and finished all the ground broken
up today. The weather is dry and the ground so hard that we had to stop
ploughing.
October 11, 1851 Red clouds this morning. The day quite warm and a little
cloudy at sundown. I bought this evening of Peter Clepper five steers for
$51.50.
December 12, 1851 A large white frost this morning. The ground froze
hard, clouded up during the day and quite cold. This day had the remains of
my mother and father taken from their places of burial and put into a new
grave side by side in the graveyard of the New Presbyterian Church. The
coffin of my mother was in a good state of preservation considering the
length of time since she was buried. The bottom of the coffin was
perfectly sound. Both coffins were full of water. There was nothing but
the bones of my mother except a little hair. We intended to have Brother
Nicholas remains also moved to the same place but nothing could be found,
bones nor coffin. A complete decay seems to have taken place with him.
Dec. 20, 1851 This morning cloudy and not quite so cold. The wind
continued during the night to blow considerably. Before one o'clock this
morning my wife was taken unwell and before two gave birth to a girl
weighing 10 1/2 lbs (Ida). Mrs. Wax was present. The day a little more
moderate, mostly sun shining.
8
�December 25, 1851 This morning cloudy with indications of fallen
weather. Bro. John got back yesterday evening from Dandridge. Commenced
raining soon after breakfast and continued to do so most of the day, still
raining tonight.
1852
Sunday January 4, 1852 This morning nearly clear and some frost and
freeze. Last evening Joseph H. Earnest, Nancy McCarty and one child, Eliza
R. Powel and 2 children, George R. Powel and John H. Fain came to my house
and stayed last night. They all went away today. The day mostly sunshine.
January 16, 1851 Still cloudy and windy this morning. Joseph Rhea came
this morning and put in a set of teeth for my wife. Sun shone out and the
snow melted off a little during the day.
January 19, 1852 Last night the coldest of the winter. This morning a
little cloudy. Everything that could freeze froze up. In town I understand
the thermometer was this morning 70 below zero. The day exceedingly
cold. The sun shone out but dimly.
April 10, 1852 I expect to start today in company with brother John for
Chattanooga. We reached Dandridge on the 11th, went into Knoxville on
the morning of the 13th. Brother John returned home from Knoxville.
I
went on the steamboat Lady Augusta and arrived in Chattanooga on the
15th where I remained until Thursday evening the 20th when I boarded the
steamboat Jefferson and reached Knoxville on the morning of the 22nd. I
remained in Knoxville until the 24th when I took the stage and reached
home on the morning of the 25th.
April 28, 1852 Rained a good deal last night and still cloudy this morning.
Rained during the day. Mrs. Smith was tried in the circuit court for killing
her child. The court this morning acquited her of the charge but public
opinion believes she is guilty.
Sept. 14, 1852 Samuel Shaver with his family started to move with his
father's family to either Arkansas or Missouri.
9
�Sunday October 17, 1852 Very cool this morning and cloudy. The day
pleasant. I went to town to a sacrament meeting in the New School church.
A large number present. The church full.
October 18, 1852 Cloudy this morning and still quite cool.
pleasant. Brother John came home this evening. I learn from the
Register of the death of John Fain of Dandridge. He died on
instant at his residence in the 75th year of his age. He was truly
man.
The day
Knoxville
the 11th
an honest
1853
April 10, 1853 This morning cool and a little cloudy; commenced planting
corn this morning. I received today intelligence through a letter from
William Gammon to brother Richard of the death of our stepmother
Elizabeth Fain. She died at William Gammons in Blountville on Saturday
the 9th of April and was to be buried at the Presbyterian church in
Blountville on Sunday the 10th at 3 p.m.
April 19, 1853 A horse ran off with a buggy and upset near the Branch
with young Stills and his wife in it. She was hurt a little.
April 25, 1853 Brother Richard's infant boy child died last night before 12
o'clock and was buried this evening.
May 19, 1853 This morning a little cooler. Mr. Netherland's son John died
on yesterday and buried today. This is my 46th birthday.
May 31, 1853 This morning not quite so cool. Mr. Heiskell's house in town
was burned during last night. It was thought to have taken fire by leaving
some ashes in a keg on the porch. The furniture was saved.
June 5, 1853 The morning clear. The day very hot, cloudy in the evening.
went to church in town today with most of my family to a sacramental
meeting at the Second Presbyterian church which was packed with people
to its utmost capacity. Service had commenced and the Rev. Mr.
Mccampbell was praying when a post in the lesser story with a glass
lamp that had been put there to prop a sleeper broke thus breaking the
10
�lamp making a good deal of noise in the fall and gave the congregation a
scare. Many thought the gallery and some that the house was falling which
caused a great rush to the doors. Many jumping out of the windows to the
injury of persons and children though I have not heard of any seriously
injured. Brother John jumped out of the highest window and is perhaps as
bad hurt as any unless it was a young lady who jumped out of the window
and it is said has sprained her ankle. The meeting was again commenced at
the First Presbyterian Church. It caused a good many to go immediately
home from serious injury which was received in the rush made for the
doors.
June 29, 1853 Brother John died this morning at a quarter past four of
consumption at brother Richard's house. He had been sick for some time
but the last week he sunk rapidy and during the whole night was dying. He
sunk quietly down to the grave having his mind to the last and with a f u 11
knowledge that he could not live. There was present at his death brother
Richard and wife, Brother George and sister Nancy McCarty and George plus
myself.
June 30, 1853 Brother John was buried today at the New School Church in
Rogersville. Service was performed in the church by the Rev. Mr. Sawyer.
June 31, 1853 This morning cool. Samuel Fain son of Thomas from
Dandridge came last night
Sept. 12, 1853 Samuel Gammon commenced boarding with me this morning
and going to the academy.
October 5, 1853 I went to town last night to hear a lecture on physiology
and mesmerism. The manifestations were very interesting. Cousin John
Fain from Jefferson with his sister and Martha Brazelton from the
institute came this evening.
October 27, 1853 I started the morning of the 14th in company with John
Fain for Knoxville via Dandridge. I reached Knoxville on the 16th. I went as
a juryman in federal court. I was drawn as a grand juror. The jury was
discharged on the 25th. I started for home the same day and got home on
the night of the 26th. Considerable snow feel in Knoxville on the morning
11
�of the 24th. The day was cold and very unpleasant.
December 25, 1853 Christmas. This morning I judge to be the hardest
freeze of the season. On yesterday cousin John Fain of Jefferson came out
with his sister Mary and Martha Brazelton, Mary Taylor, Cate Evans and
sister.
1854
January 27, 1854 Rained all last night and still raining this morning. The
Earth seems to be full of water. Old Mr. Sensabaugh stayed last night with
us.
January 28, 1854 A hard freeze last night and clear this morning. The day
sunshiney but coo . I went to town today and found the road dreadful bad.
The pond by Col. Hale's so deep that to get along at all it is necessary to
go through Mrs. McKinney's field. The river is said to be out over the
bottoms taking away a great many rails and doing much injury.
January 29, 1854 This is Ernest's 10th birthday. He is now going to the
McMinn Academy in town.
March 2, 1854 This is the day fixed for the organization of the Bank. I am a
candidate for cashier and was elected without opposition. Wm Hutchison
president and Henry Wax, clerk.
March 12, 1854 I went to town on Monday morning last and did not get
home until last evening.
March 13, 1854 Went to town after breakfast
March 14, 1854 Came out this evening
March 19, 1854 I went to town on Monday morning and did not get home
until Saturday evening. The week has been cold and unpleasant.
March 27, 1854 Brother Richard got home from taking a drove of horses to
North Carolina last evening. He left on February 3 in company with Miller
and White. Mrs. Shanks came out last Sunday and stayed all week. I went to
12
�town to the bank this morning.
April 1, 1854 Saturday I came out home this evening having been in town
all week. William Neal and Ellen Anderson came out with me.
April 9, 1854 Raining a little this morning. Sam Gammon started for
Sullivan this morning. At a quarter before 11:00 at night my wife gave
birth to a girl child. Eliza Fain and myself all present. Mrs. Wax came
afterwards and Mrs. Shanks later.
April 10, 1854 Sarah seems to be doing well this morning.
April 11, 1854 I came out last night. Sarah still doing well.
April 15, 1854 I came out again last night and then again this evening and
found sisters Nancy and Eliza.
April 21, 1854 I came out home this evening and found my wife and all the
children but Ida and the baby sick with chicken pox
September 3, 1854 George finished yesterday putting wheat in the fie Id
above the house. C. Spears returned yesterday from Knoxville and reports
cholera there with several deaths.
November 5, 1854 Sam Gammon left on the 2nd. He went to town and took
the stage the next morning for Blountville. Two of my young cows died and
when I came out in the evening another heifer was down and died by night
making a total of three in two days. The causes of which I have no notion
as they were all in good order fat enough for beef
Monday Dec. 25, 1854 A heavy fog this morning so heavy that you could see
but a little distance. This continued damp and foggy, a mist falling all day
like fine rain and at night still misty. George Powell and wife and brother
Richard and wife took dinner with us today. I went to town in the evening
and returned. Rain is very much needed to swell the creeks and rivers. The
river is said to be lower than ever before known. It it almost impossible
to get grinding only a few mills that can do any grindings.
13
�1855
January 1, 1855 This morning cold with a large white frost. The day
pleasant and sun shiney. A most beautiful day for New Years Day. A good
many persons in town today being county court day. When I came out in the
evening I found my sister Nancy at my house.
Sunday January 14, 1855 Cousin Sam Fain of Dandridge came out with me
last night and will remain until tomorrow morning.
Sunday January 21, 1855 This morning cloudy and warm feels like a spring
morning. Rained a little last night. Sallie is quite unwell and has been for
several days. I think is is principally cold.
February 3, 1855 George R. Powel and his wife (sister Eliza) started this
morning for Memphis and New Orleans.
March 12, 1855 Sister Eliza and George Powel got home yesterday morning
on the stage from New Orleans.
)
March 19, 1855 (Sunday) A great deal of rain fell last week with storms
of wind, rain with thunder and lightning. The river has at last got up and it
was said 120 boats had gone down. I did not get out home from Monday
morning until yesterday evening. The organization of the New Board of
Directors at the Bank took place on Thursday and I was elected without
opposition as cashier for 12 months.
April 16, 1855 Raining a little this morning. Warm and beginning to have
some of the appearance of Spring. This morning the peach trees in bloom
and the meadow begins to look green. Commenced planting corn today
April 19, 1855 Finished planting corn today. Both days very warm . Sarah
and the children
May 19, 1855 This is my birthday, being forty-eight years old. It doesn't
seem to me that I have lived so long.
Sunday May 20, 1855 This morning clear and a little cool. I find
14
this
�morning that the woods are full of locusts. Their music can be heard in
every direction.
Sunday May 27, 1855 A little cloudy this morning. Chancery court
commenced in town in the morning.
May 29, 1855 Mr. B. Neal came out with me this evening. From him I
learned some of the particulars of the great calamity that happened in
Scott County Virginia on Wednesday the 23th at an affair of Henry Cains.
Thirty eight persons were poisoned by arsenic which was supposed to be
put into a bowl of custard.
May 30,. 1855 It was reported that several of those poisoned have already
died and many more, it is expected, will die soon.
Sunday June 12, 1855 Last night Jas. Johnson and his sisters had their
house burned with most of their things. The fire was supposed to be
accidental.
June 25, 1855 Cloudy this morning with thunder in the distance. It
sprinkled rain a little and we commenced cutting wheat today.
May 26, 1855 Finished the large field of wheat leaving the small lot to
cut.
July 11, 1855 The candidates for Governor - Johnson & Gentry spoke in
town today. There was a great many people out to hear them. I could not
get out.
Sunday July 25, 1855 On yesterday William McAlister, his wife and 3
children from Nashville came to brother Richards (the women were
sisters).
July 20, 1855 William McAlister's family started yesterday for Sullivan .
August 10, 1855 By todays mail a letter from Mr. Caldwell to Mr. Rogan
gave information of the death of James P. McCarty at the coppermine in
Virginia. He died on Monday the 6th with Typhoid Fever (his wife was
_)
15
�Hiram's sister).
August 24, 1855 William McAlisters family came to Richards on
Wednesday and on yesterday William Gammon and his wife and two
children came.
Sunday August 26, 1855 On yesterday the boys took down the old stable.
September 2, 1855 Hugh Fain of Blountville came to our house I ast
evening. He is out buying cattle. Very hot today in the sunshine.
September 10, 1855 This day Ernest started to school to the Academy. In
the evening Sims Carlile came out to board with us.
September 16, 1855 There has been for some time a good deal of sickness
in town and still many cases. It is said to be Typhoid Fever.
November 6, 1855 This is Thanksgiving day. The morning clear, cold and
heavy with white frost. Quite a hard freeze last night and the night before.
November 16, 1855 Killed 12 hogs on Wednesday the 12th.
Christmas 1855 Raining with morning with a prospect for a rainy day. It is
in fact a very gloomy morning. It continued to rain with but Ii tt I e
intermission all day in the evening quite hard, towards night the wind rose
and it was much colder. Near after night it is blowing pretty hard, very
dark, cloudy and still raining a little. Sisters Nancy McCarty and Eliza
Powel plus George Powel and brother took dinner with us today.
December 26, 1855 This morning very cold, everything froze up and
continued to freeze during the day. Some snow fell during the night.
December 27, 1855 The coldest morning this winter. I stayed at the bank
last night.
December 28, 1855 Not quite so cold this morning, sleeting and rained a
little during the day. I came out home this evening.
16
�1856
January 1, 1856 A hard freeze last night, a little cloudy this morning.
Some sunshine during the day and thawed. My wife, self, and several of the
children dined at George R. Powels today. Brother Richard, sister Nancy
and others were there.
January 10, 1856 This is said to be the coldest morning for several years.
Everything froze up.
January 12, 1856 A very deep snow fell during the night. The greatest that
has fallen for many years - averaged about 10 inches deep.
January 22, 1856 Brother Richard and wife started yesterday for Nashville
by stage. The circuit court commenced its session yesterday in town.
February 24, 1856 The snow nearly gone. I still see some on the hill near
Brother Richards house and in the lower meadow.
)
April 9, 1856 Got about half of the field above the house planted in corn
today.
April 14, 1856 Finished planting corn this evening, the last half of the
field.
April 25, 1856 Sims Carlile quit boarding with us this morning.
April 27, 1856 The last few days have been warm and pleasant. The forest
is rapidly putting on her dress of green and flowers are smiling forth in
their beauty.
May 18, 1856 This morning though still cloudy, has some appearance of
clearing up. Gilman and his wife stayed with us last night, and today have
gone to the alum spring taking with them one of George Gammons and one
of Wesley's children to try the benefit on them for scrofula. This is my
birthday. I am today forty-nine years old.
July 4, 1856 This day eighty years ago our Fathers declared American
17
�Freedom but those patriots that signed the declaration have all passed
away and are now in their graves leaving to their descendants the best
government in the world. Alas for the wickedness of bigotry and
fanaticism the government is now in peril headed by the hypocritical
Northern Parsons who profess to be the followers of Christ but encourage
and excite rebellion and fanaticism arming brother against brother and
setting at nought the precepts of the Bible. Let the prayer of patriots be
that this devil may pass away .
September 3, 1856 Earnest and Lucy started to school today in town, the
first to the academy and the second to the institute.
October 4, 1856 Finished today putting in wheat having sowed near 1 8
bushels.
October 21, 1856 Tom Fain came last night and left this morning for
Knoxville.
October 25, 1856 Tom Fain came this evening.
November 4, 1856 Today has been rainy and stormy. This is the day of the
Presidential Election. The vote has now been cast that will determine the
result. I feel that it has been favorable to the election of Buchanan and
the Union.
November 16, 1856 Finished on Friday last getting in my com. Made a very
poor crop because of the dry summer.
November 19, 1856 I had my hogs killed yesterday and cut up and salted
today.
Sunday December 21, 1856 On last Friday night Asbury Gillenwater got
his house burned and supposed to be accidental.
December 23, 1856 Last night was the coldest of this winter. It is said
the thermometer was from 5° to 1Qo below zero. There was so much ice
covering the river today that the ferry boat could not cross.
18
�1857
Friday January 2, 1857 This morning about half after three o'clock my
wife gave birth to a girl. Mrs. Shanks present. Black head and good size.
Very cloudy this morning.
January 19, 1857 Last night was extremely cold. This morning the coldest
that perhaps has ever been known in this region of the country. It is said
that in several situations in town and with several different
thermometers before sunup it was 160 below zero which is colder than the
memorable cold Saturday. There is I think this difference in that on the
cold Saturday there was a strong wind and this morning very Ii tt I e
consequently those who were more exposed would suffer less than on the
cold Saturday.
January 25, 1857 The last week has been the coldest ever known to any
person living in this latitude. Will be remembered as the cold week. Many
persons have been more or less frost bitten.
)
February 22, 1857 The last week has been as mild as April. This morning
cloudy with a prospect for change of weather. A good deal of ploughing and
preparation for the crops has been done this last week by the farmers.
March 10, 1857 Brother George came out, he got back from Baltimore this
morning.
March 25, 1857 Finished putting in oats this morning. Planted in the
garden potatoes and corn.
March 27, 1857 This morning cold, a little cloudy, mist blowing down the
valley. Abram Gammon and Dr. George Gammon stayed last night with us.
May 1, 1857 The sugar trees look quite green this morning. The poplars are
beginning to put out their leaves. I planted today the sugar cane seed.
May 8, 1857 Frost this morning and quite cool. Planted the lot of ground on
the stage in corn on yesterday. The day the warmest and most pleasant
this spring.
19
�May 10 This morning a little cloudy and warmer. Vegetation is now coming
forward rapidly. The trees are now putting on their green dress. Spring has
fairly set in. A week ago the woods looked black and gloomy. This morning
green and cheerful. The dogwood blossoms and redbuds was seen about the
first of last week.
May 22, 1857 Left home on Monday morning the 11th to visit my relations
in Sullivan. I returned on yesterday evening. I visited uncle John Fain and
the trip was very pleasant having seen a large number of my relations .
June 7, 1857 The last week has been quite cool. It has been necessary
night and morning to have fires. Shepherd Jackson came to my house the
evening of the 4th.
Sunday June 14, 1857 The weather of the last week has been better suited
for the growing crops. The nights have been cool. This morning warm and a
little cloudy. Before 3 in the evening a rain came down and soon the winds
got up and blew quite a storm blowing down brother Richard's blacksmith
shop. A great deal of rain fell.
Tuesday June 23, 1857 The examination of the students of the McMinn
Academy commenced yesterday .
Sunday June 28, 1857 For the two last days the weather has been quite
warm, the first hot weather of the season. There were quite a number of
persons attending the examination of the schools during last week but not
so many as this time last year. A fine shower of rain fell this evening
with a prospect of more.
July 12, 1857 Finished cutting my quaker wheat on yesterday which seems
very good. The white wheat I think will be ready to commence on by
tomorrow.
July 15, 1857
Finished cutting wheat.
July 26, 1857 Last week got all my wheat housed and commenced on the
oats.
20
�August 2 A very hot day, finished cutting oats on Friday. A great deal of
rain fell last week.
August 10, 1857 Started this morning to Knoxville to the southern
convention. Went to Russellville on horseback, took the cars on Tuesday
morning and reached Knoxville about 10 a.m. I found Knoxville filled with
people, met with Major Bartlett and wife on the next morning. They came
home with me and we got home before 12 o'clock on Wednesday the 12th.
August 23, 1857 Major Bartlett and wife left for their home in Shelby
County today. Brother George came out this evening. William Gammon and
wife is at Brother Richards.
Sept. 14, 1857 Uncle Thomas Fain and his son James got here about 9
o'clock in the night. James has come to go to college and board with us. I
am to board him at one dollar and fifty cents per week.
Sept. 20, 1857 More rain fell during last night. The ground seems to be
pretty thoroughly wet this morning. Sister Eliza and Sam Gammon stayed
last night with us. The rain will be hailed with pleasure by the farmer as
it had been so dry for several weeks that everybody had stopped plowing.
Sept. 21 Commenced plowing this morning and found the ground so hard
had to stop. Concluded to sow wheat ground we had broken up in white
wheat.
Sept. 30, 1857 A large white frost this morning. Some towels that was
hanging on the fence was frozen. I fear it will injure all the late corn and
all the pastures will be influenced.
October 1, 1857 A heavy frost this morning. Turned the hogs on the corn
today.
Sunday Oct. 11, 1857 Left home this morning for Nashville, reached there
on the evening of the 14th, left Nashville the morning of the 23rd and got
home on the evening of the 27th. George told me he finished sowing wheat
on the 20th.
21
�Nov. 9, 1857 I weighed some beets and carrots this morning that growed
this year in the garden. The largest beet weighted 8 1/2 lbs and carrot 5
lbs.
1858
January 13, 1858 James Fain started for home this morning, the college
having been suspended. His brother Samuel brought him down the buggy. He
also started this morning for his home in Jefferson.
March 11, 1858 Cousin Thomas Fain came last evening.
March 12, 1858 Cousin Tom started for home this morning
Sunday March 16, 1858
to Col. Hales.
)
Commenced putting oats in the corner field next
Easter Sunday April 4, 1858 This morning warm, pleasant and sun shiney.
My wife and myself went today to the burial of Mrs. Hamilton Carmichael,
a large number of persons present. Done some garden, put in potatoes and
other seeds.
April 6, 1858 Rather cool this morning, clouded in the evening with high
winds. Brother George came over today and I finished planting oats.
April 23, 1858 Planted near an acre of chines sugar cane
April 24, 1858 A large frost this morning and a little cloudy with some
ice. The potatoes have wilted down. I don't think the fruit is injured.
April 25, 1858 This morning the whole face of the Earth is whitened with
snow still falling rapidly. A very strange contrast is now seen. The trees
with their green leaves covered with snow. The green reminds of summer
the snow of winter.
It stopped snowing by 8 a.m when in commenced
melting and nearly all gone by 12.
April 28, 1858 A very large white frost this morning and hard freeze with
ice in a trough back of the kitchen. The larger portion of the fruit is
22
�believed to be killed
May 31, 1858 At about 6 o'clock in the evening there was a considerable
storm of wind and rain. Several limbs was blown off the poplar trees in
front of the house and a large limb off the sugar tree in the meadow.
June 22, 1858 Commenced cutting wheat today. There is some rust in it
which has injured the crop some. Uncle John Fain and cousin Hugh came
this evening. This is examination week in town.
July 21, 1858 Sister Nancy McCarty, Eliza R. Powel, my wife, Nicholas and
myself went today over Clinch mountain to George Fain's store and
returned the same day.
July 22, 1858 Sister Nancy and Eliza stayed last night with us and started
for their homes this morning.
July 28, 1858 A tremendous heavy rain fell this evening. It commenced
before 7 and deluged everything with water. More rain fell than it has ever
done before since I have lived here. The branch was high enough to wash
down the foot log and the lot fence which was never done before. The
spring house inundated, it rose so quick that the milk and cheese was lost.
In fact large branches seemed to be running in every hollow. There was a
strong wind blowing up the valley with considerable thunder and lightning.
Sept. 17, 1858 I went today over the Clinch to George Fain's store and
returned in the evening.
Sept. 24, 1858 Went today to Seth Armstrongs in the upper end of the
county on business of Major Bartlett and returned the same day.
Sept. 26, 1858 For several nights past a comet has been visible just after
night. It appeared just in the gap of the knobs, low down in the horizon.
Tonight it is a little further west and higher up in the heavens. The ta i I
extends towards the East and very bright.
Sunday October 3, 1858 The comet has for the last week presented a very
brilliant appearance, its tail broad and bright.
23
�Dec. 31, 1858 John Hill was to be buried in town this evening. He died of
cancer.
1859
Saturday Jan. 1, 1859 The Rev. Mr. Park and lady, Gen. Hale and lady and
Hamilton Hale dined with us today. John Burns died last night.
Feb. 20, 1859 On Saturday Earnest got home, he having gone with his uncle
George Fain's horses as far as Thomas Fains in Sullivan. I sent off with
him my horse Charley and he sent me a sorrel horse.
May 8, 1859 This morning about 3 o'clock Annis Poats little boy died. He
had been sick for more than a week. He died in a convulsion.
May 9, 1859 McCarty Poats was buried today at the new school church. The
day very warm, cloudy in the eveing and rained a light shower just after
night
May 17, 1859 Mr. Hicks from Clinch came over yesterday to cut wood for
me, his son was with him.
June 21, 1859 Commenced harvesting this morning - cutting wheat - at 20
min. before 11 a.m. commenced raining and lasted for 20 minutes raining
very hard. At noon another rain came on when for 15 minutes it fell in
torrents overflowing the spring house and making a large creek in the
yard. I fear it has injured the corn fields by washing. This is also Sallie
Fain's examination day where the children have gone. It is now half after
12 thundering and threatening another rain.
July 4, 1859 This morning very cool I was told in town that there was a
change of 360 in the thermometer since yesterday evening. The day
continued quite cool. I commenced this morning to cut my oats.
August 19, 1859 Mrs. Cross, mother to my wife and Mr. Shelton and his
wife, half-sister of my wife came today from West Tennessee for a visit.
24
�Sept. 5, 1859 Nicholas started to school today to Campbell Edmondson's at
the Ebbing and Flowing Spring schoolhouse.
Sept. 9, 1859 This morning Mr. Shelton and his wife started for home.
Yesterday Mrs. Shelton bought a horse of Edge Camphill at $140 at four
months. I went his security on the note.
Sept. 19, 1859 James Fain, who came on the 16th, started for home this
morning. My wife with her mother Mrs. Cross started for Fayette County.
They left in the hack and expect to take the train this evening at
Russellville.
Oct. 7, 1859 This week thus far has been delightful weather, nights cool
with foggy mornings and sunshiney days. My nephew Hiram Fain was
married on yesterday evening to Bettie Lyons daughter of David Lyons. The
affair was at my brother Richards last evening.
October 23, 1859 A little frost this morning, not co cool The sun is
coming out pleasant and bright. Yesterday was quite cool, cloudy and
windy . Mrs. Shanks stayed until this morning and went away after
breakfast. Jane Mitchell came out yesterday evening. Tomorrow will be
five weeks since my wife left home.
October 29, 1859 My wife got home today. Her half brother William Cross
came home with her. We were all rejoiced and the children were in perfect
ecstacies at the arrival of their mother as she had extened her trip much
longer than she expected. Two of Mrs. Bartlett's children died while she
was there, the youngest and the third child.
October 31, 1859 Ernest was thrown from a horse this evening hurting his
right wrist very badly and bruising or scratching his face a good deal.
November 6, 1859 The days have been sun shiney and smoky - true indian
summer. I went over to Clinch on last Friday. The atmosphere was so filled
with smoke that the view from the mountain was very limited. We went
to town today to hear Saumel Rhea, the missionary to Persia preach. He
made a pretty and interesting sermon on his mission but failed to convince
me that it is a duty of the people to support foreign missions.
25
�November 23, 1859 William Cross started this morning for home. Ernest
went with him to the Gap to bring back the horse.
1860
March 18, 1860 Nicholas was taken sick yesterday and is worse today. He
has been complaining a little for some days ..
March 19, 1860 Nicholas is worse. I sent for Dr. Walker to see him today.
March 22, 1860 A large frost this morning. Nicholas continued bad all last
night. I have sent for the Doctor this morning.
March 25, 1860 The weather has been cold and windy the last two days.
Nicholas is no better. Dr. Walker was out yesterday morning. He says it is
fever. Today Nicholas had a bad day of it and Dr. Walker was out this
evening.
March 26, 1860 Still cloudy, windy and cold with ice this morning.
Nicholas rested pretty well last night and was easy through the day. In the
evening he had a small passage from his bowels and soon after the hurting
in his bowels commenced.
March 27, 1860 Nicholas had a
morning very cold and cloudy
gave Nicholas an injection and
of hardened feces - some very
bad night of it. Pained nearly all night. This
- hard ice. Dr. Walker came out today and
he passed out of his bowels a large amount
large.
March 29, 1860 Nicholas complained a good deal during last night. He
seems easier this morning and is now sleeping. Dr. Walker was out to see
him today.
March 30, 1860 Nicholas rested tolerably well last night but it is quite
uncertain whether he is any better. Doctor Walker out to see him today.
March 31, 1860 Nicholas slept very well last night. He was pained in the
evening. I planted a small lot of corn this evening in the lot next to Col.
26
�Hales. Dr. Walker was out to see Nicholas today.
April 2, 1860 Nicholas was quiet all night and slept most of the time. he
is still sleeping this morning. He was kept under the influence of opiates
all day.
April 4, 1860 Nicholas seems rather more feeble this morning. He suffered
less today than any day since he has been sick. Dr. Walker out today.
April 7 1860 Put a blister on Nicholas last night. He suffered a good deal
during the night. He seems quiet this morning. He was pained some in the
morning, easier in the evening. Dr. Walker out a dinner time. John Bell
came out and did a little surveying for me today.
April 9, 1860 Nicholas only rested tolerably last night. I commenced to
put in corn this morning in the field near the Knob. Dogwood blossome
were seen yesterday. The swallows and martins have made their
appearance.
)
April 10, 1860 I finished corn
Nicholas in the evening.
this morning and Dr. Walker out to see
April 13, 1860 This morning again cold and clear. Nicholas did not sleep
but little last night and was up to 3:00 this morning. He then went to
sleep and is still sleeping. Pained a good deal during the day and was
worse after night.
April 14, 1860 Nicholas had a bad night of it. It is now four weeks today
since he was taken sick.
April 23, 1860 Nicholas rested well last night and seems improved. This
morning he put on his clothes and walked out on the porch.
May 6, 1860 Nicholas is slowly improving. He went to town yesterday with
me riding behind. His has been the worst case of sickness I have ever had
in my family.
May 12, 1860 Eight weeks today since Nicholas was taken sick and he is
27
�still quite feeble and far from being well.
May 19, 1860 This is my birthday making me 53 years old. There was on
yesterday evening a heavy hail storm on the river.
June 6, 1860 Ham Hale and his wife, Mrs. Clairy of Athens and Miss
Humphries of Knoxville spent the day with us.
)
June 13, 1860 William Kinkead who is not expected to get over his present
sickness sent for me today by his son-in-law. He wanted, if it could be
done, to make some disposition of his property or was rather afraid that
the disposition he had made would operate to the injury of his daughters
shares. He said he had made the will and had, as I understand it, made
deeds of his lands to his sons and had given to his daughter notes of hand
that he had taken for the sale of personalities and this arrangement was
based upon an amount of indebtedness, he he supposed he owed but which
he now supposed, owing to a bill filed in chancery court against him,
might be greater than when he made the division to his children. This suit
had deranged his plans. He was desirous that if more was to be paid out of
his estate, that it should not work any injury to his daughters. He said
that his will was not worded to suit him but he did not say what that
portion of the will was. He also said he had signed a deed for the church
property on his lands some time ago but that it did not express his view in
the matter as he wanted it. That he wanted it to be a Presbyterian church
to be held by old school Presbyterians.
Sunday June 24, 1860 We finished yesterday evening cutting our quaker
wheat. The heads seem good but there is , too little on the grains and will
make but a poor turnout.
July 1, 1860 Last week was the examinations in town. As usual the
weather was very hot. The conclusions of the examinations were very sad.
Mrs. Wilson, wife of the principle of the female college, died on Thursday
evening the closing evening of the examinations. On Tuesday evening last
we finished cutting my wheat .
July 4, 1860 There was no celebration of any kind in town. The rail road
gave a free ride to the people. It is said there were more than 1000 people
28
�carried on the road. A very heavy rain fell in the evening.
July 14, 1860 Finished yesterday cutting my grass and putting it up. I have
all my grain wheat and oats in the barn . The weather last week has been
extremely hot and dry. The com is suffering for rain. Everything looks dry
and parched.
August 12, 1860 A good deal of rain fell last week. It was to late for a
good deal of corn, but to most of it and the pastures it will do a great deal
of good. John Fain son of John and his wife stayed with us Thursday night
and is still at Richards.
Sept. 28, 1860 Cloudy this morning. I went today to John Simpsons at
Bulls Gap and found that he had died at 5 pm on yesterday. He had been sick
for some time with an attack of fever.
Nov. 6, 1860 The election for President takes place today. The day
pleasant and sun shiney. There was great excitement in town today. A
great many got drunk. Some of the know-nothings behaved very badly as
they went to the poles armed with bludgeons and weapons.
1861
Jan. 1, 1861 This morning is perhaps the coldest we have had this winter.
Everything frose up hard, the snow and frost upon the trees and fences
with the sun now shining upon them presents a beautiful but mournful
appearance, which accords with my own feeling which is sorrowful when
contemplating the past and reflecting on the future. To think that this
mighty nation of ours, second to none while united, is now dissolved by
that hydra-headed monster fanaticism, that has in ages past destroyed
everything that was good, everything that advanced the prosperity of the
people. It is the power used by tyrants to destroy the people and take from
them their rights and liberties. Our brethren of the free states having
drunk deep of this infatuation have determined to deprive the Southern
States of their rights under the Constitution in the election of a black
Republican President under the forms of the constitutution by a large
majority of the people for the very express purpose to bring the federal
government in conflict with the rights of the Southern States, setting
29
�aside the decision of the Supreme Court of the United States and the
Constitution. South Carolina feeling that her rights are to be no longer
regarded in the Union has called a convention of the people which has met
and unanimously passed the ordinance of Secession and is therefore no
longer in the Union. I trust the God who stood by our fathers in the times
of the Revolution for the course they have taken and it is my prayer that
"Our Father who art in Heaven" and who rules the universe may guard and
protect us of this republic from the horrors of Civil War and that
fanaticism and its attending evils shall yet be governed by counsels that
will save this great republic from destruction. May God in his infinite
wisdom save and preserve us as a nation to his honor and glory. It is now
only to the great God our father that we can now look for the preservation
of this nation from the bad counsel of men that are imbued by ambition
and fanaticism. 0 God save our country from awful calamity.
The day continued sun shiney and moderated. A good deal of snow melted
off, but clouded in the evening.
January 4, 1861 This is the day set aside by the President for fasting and
prayer in consequence of the evils that is likely to fall upon us as a
Nation. It is my prayer that he who rules all things may avert the evils
that are upon the nation and out of it bring great good not only to our
people but to the benefit of the oppressed everywhere. I pray that the aim
of the English Aristocracy to perpetuate their own power and privileges by
destroying our great American Republic may be frustrated and their own
tyrannical power crushed. Oh that from the present gloomy prospect you
may build up a more enlightened and Christian people in this our loved
republic which shall by its influence on the nations of the earth unloose
the shackles that have been put upon the people by tyrants. This is asked
in the name of him who died on the cross that the inequalities of mankind
might be forgiven.
Jan. 13, 1861 On yesterday James Fain and Samuel Fain and his wife came
on their way to Jefferson. This last week I have been quite unwell and am
still so from cold or something else.
January 15, 1861 Rained all night and most of the time very heavily and is
still raining very heavily this morning. The ground and ditches are full of
)
30
�water and it seems like a flood. Our branch higher than it has been for a
long time. It washed out the milk in the spring house during last night
January 24, 1861 Dr. Walker came out to see me this evening. He thought
my lungs effective.
March 24, 1861 I commenced this morning taking the hypophosphite as
prepared by Dr. Churchill which was sent me by Rev. E. A. Wilson from
Williamsburg, NY.
April 3, 1861
discontinued
commenced again this morning.
taking
hypophosphite on Sunday and
April 6, 1861 This morning before 6 o'clock my wife gave birth to a boy
child. The morning cloudy. The day continued cloudy and windy with an
occasional sprinkle of rain. The child weighed 11 lbs.
April 20, 1861 A frost this morning and ice. Nearly clear so commenced
planting corn today. There was ice in the rain trough up to 1O a.m. In the
evening we had sunshine but was cool in the shade. I was in town this
evening and the news brought by the passengers was of an exciting kind.
The report is that Massachusetts was sending troops to Washington to aid
old Linkhom in his tyrannical and wicked attempt on the South. The troops
had reached Baltimore when they were attacked by the Baltimorians and
many of they were killed and the balance made prisoners.
April 21, 1861 Still cloudy this morning but no frost. War is now upon us
having commenced last week in the Harbor Charleston where the results
were in favor of the southern arms. Our forces took Fort Sumpter which
surrendered on the 13th. May the God of Heaven protect us as it did for our
fathers of the Revolution and give success to the cause of truth and
justice which is our cause.
May 7, 1861 Col. Haynes made a secession speech in town today.
May 9, 1861 Judge Patterson in town today to try the negroes charged
with killing Ergo Kite, his daughter and Mrs. Polly Hayms and daughter and
31
�burning up the house which took place last week.
May 11, 1861 A heavy fog this morning. The volunteers of Capt. Fulkerson's
company start today. I have five nephews in the company. Rained during
the morning and continued all day. Two of the negroes charged with the
murder of Ergo Kite were found guilty and sentenced by the judge to be
hung the 12th of next month.
May 17, 1861 This morning quite cool. Brother Richard started to Nashville
to enter upon the duties as Commissary General. The day pleasant.
June 1, 1861 Chancery Court adjourned yesterday evening. Richard being
absent I acted as clerk for the week. There was a good many decrees
entered up.
June 8, 1861 This is the day in which the election takes place that will
determine whether or not the state will become a member of the Southern
Confederacy. There is a great excitement in this county and all over the
state. I went to town and voted for separation and representation. Brother
Richard got home this evening from Nashville.
June 11, 18611 James S. Fain came last night and was married this
morning at about 10 o'clock to Nancy Janes Mitchell at his fathers in town.
The ceremony was performed by the Reverend Mr. Campbell. I attended the
ceremony.
July 7, 1861 The comet still appears at night north of us more brilliant
than any I have before seen. It is said to be the Charles the 3th comet and
that it has been 300 years since it was last seen.
July 28, 1861 A little cloudy this morning. This day week was fought the
heaviest battle near Manassas in Virginia that ever took place in North
America between the Federal and Confederate armies in which the
Confederates were victorious routing the Federals and driving them back
on Washington with great slaughter. Our armies loss was heavy, but theirs
much greater.
32
�July 28, 1861 This day by proclamation of Davis President of the
Confederate States has been set apart as a day of thanksgiving and prayer
to the almighty for the great victory obtained by our army on last Sunday.
We all feel that our Father in Heaven has signally protected our armies and
that our great success has been vouchsafed to us in this great battle for
our right, liberty and for Christianity. Glory to God in the highest to him
be the praise and glory and God should there be any national sin against us
as a nation turn our people to the forgiveness and removal of the sin and
Oh Heavenly Father be our shield and our protector in this our day of
trouble. We in great humility bow our hearts to you and ask thy kind
protection to our troops, make them Christian soldiers and when the hour
of danger is nigh unto them save them from the ruthless hand of the
invader and bring them in safety to their friends and homes and let peace
again dwell in our land. May the sword be turned into ploughshares and war
and battle no longer be known in our lands but may all be at peace
worshipping and giving thanks to him who hushes the storm and says to
the sea be calm and it is so. Most Heavenly Father take . us all in thy
especial care, guard over us and save us from danger and Oh God be pleased
to watch and guard over all my household, save them from calamities and
finally save them for Christ's sake. Amen
August 9, 1861 Started to Knoxville.
August 10, 1861 Returned home and Col. Topp of Memphis came up with
me. Brother Richard came from Nashville.
August 31, 1861 This morning just after daylight there was an earthquake
sufficient to shake houses and make the windows rattle accompanied with
a rumbling sound like distant thunder. The sound appear to be in the east
and lasted but a very short time. The day was a beautiful day.
Sept. 15, 1861 (Sunday) I left home on last Monday after dinner for
Sullivan County. I staid that night at Martha Wills, the next evening at
uncle Thomas Fains. I visited amongst the relatives being at Blountville
one night and reached home yesterday evening coming from cousin Thomas
Fains leaving his house that morning.
Sept. 21, 1861 Robert Powel was brought to town this morning a corpse.
33
�He was killed near Barboursville KY by Lincolnites in an ambuscade. He
was buried today. Rev. Mr. Campbell preached a sermon and Mr. Heiskell
delivered an address. A large number of persons were at the burial.
Sept. 29, 1861 A large white frost this morning. it was said in town on
yesterday evening that the river was higher than it had been for thirty
years and still rising. Almost every sort of thing is going down - houses,
stacks of hay, corn and pumpkins, some hogs and a horse. In fact on its
surface the river has every sort of thing.
Oct. 12, 1861 Cousin Abram Gammon came to Richard's on Thursday
evening quite sick. Sowed the last of my wheat yesterday in the lot on the
road to town.
November 7, 1861 During last night the Lincolnites burnt the railroad
bridges - one across the Holston at Union, one across Lick Creek and
attempted to burn the bridge at Strawberry Plains.
November 17, 1861 On last Tuesday I started with an expedition to
Watauga bridge in consequence of a report having got to town that the
Lincolnites were attempting to burn that bridge . Our company was
commanded by Capt. McClellan. By the time we got to the Gap we had some
75 or 80 men pretty well armed. We went on to midway and there met the
up train and were informed that there were troops enough at the bridge to
protect us. I then returned home.
Dec. 3, 1861 A hard freeze this morning. The day mostly sunshiney, but
continued cold. Killed a part of my hogs today and a beef. Washington Fain
with his family and his brother Nick came to my house this evening.
1862
January 12, 1862 Brother George came to my house last evening from the
army in Kentucky and is quite unwell. He got to town the evening before .
January 20, 1862 I started this
negroes of Franklins and Blevis
morning for Morristown
34
to sell the
�January 21, 1862 Got home this evening from Morristown. A few negroes
had been sold at very high prices.
January 25, 1862 We all feel a deep gloom in consequence of learning the
reverse of our armies in Kentucky at Fishing Creek and the loss of the
gallant Zollicoffer. There is the general belief that the reverse was
caused by the treachery of Crittenden who lately had been given the
command of our forces. The battle was fought on this day a week ago, the
particulars of which has not yet reached us, but enough is known that is
was disastrous to our forces they having to retreat across the Cumberland
river thereby losing a large amount of our stores with most of the cannon.
February 9, 1862 I got a letter from Sullivan County yesterday giving an
account of the death of uncle Thomas Fain. He had been lingering for some
time. He was truly an honest man. He acted always from principal, never
interfered with others. - a Christian man. His life has been such as to
justify the belief that he has made a happy exchange and that our loss is
his gain. Malice cannot charge him with wrong.
)
February 22, 1862 This is the birthday of the great and good Washington.
it is also the day set apart for the inauguration of the President Jefferson Davis of Mississippi having been unanimously elected he entered
upon the duties of his office for six years. On Monday morning the 10th of
this month I started to Knoxville and reached the same in the evening. I
went to Knoxville to help brother Richard in his commissary office.
Since I left home our armies have met with terrible reverses, with great
loss of life and loss of prisoners in the surrender of Fort Donalson. All
accounts agree that the conflict was the most bloody of the war with the
loss of large amounts of government stores and the disgrace of losing our
capital.
March 30, 1862 The black mare had a colt last night. It is a bay with black
mane and tail.
April 3, 1862 Last night our springhouse was broken into and all the mi I k
and cream was taken. The lock was also taken off.
_)
35
�April 7, 1862 I started for Knoxville on A.G. Fain's business in the
commissary department to arrange and fix his books and make out
quarterly returns.
April 17, 1862 Got home from Knoxville just after night having left
Knoxville at half after 11 am.
April 24, 1862 I handed to Jas. R. Pace, county court clerk
David Sensabaugh who died last week.
the will of
June 11, 1862 Started to Knoxville on the 6th on the business of R. G. Fain
and returned this evening. Ernest came home with me from Flat Creek
bridge where his company has encamped he being quite unwell.
July 1, 1862 For some days fighting near Richmond has been going on
between our armies and the Federals. Thus far we have been successful.
Telegraphs up to yesterday think the Barbarians will be compelled to
surrender. The loss on both side will be heavy.
)
July 2, 1862 The fight commenced before Richmond on the 26th between
our troops under Gen. Lee and the Federals under Gen. McClellan and was
still being continued up to last dates. All of the series of engagements
have resulted in our favor and it is believed that the main body of the
enemy's forces enveloped our lines, so that he will not be able to escape
and our hope is that he has already been crushed out. The slaughter on
both sides have been terrific. We pray to our Father in Heaven that the day
will soon come when there will not be left on our Southern soil a single
Northern barbarian to pollute our soil or molest our homes.
July 27, 1862 Finished cutting grass last week and got most of it up.
Cousin Samuel N. Fain came here today having stayed with Bro. R. last
night. He went to town this morning.
August 22, 1862 My son Ernest came home this evening and returned to
camp on the 26th.
October 22, 1862 My son Ernest started this morning for camp having been
at home since the 5th. His company is now at Chattanooga. My nephew
36
�George Powel died this morning after a long illness.
November 23, 1862 Ernest came home today sick from Bridgeport, AL
December 15, 1862 A great tragedy occurred in town today. John G. Bynum
was killed by John D. Riley. They had had some difficulty about Riley's
enrolling Bynum as a conscript in the morning. In the evening Bynum was
on horseback and redo up towards the bank when Riley fired on him with a
double barrel shotgun. Bynum fell from his horse and afterwards w hi I e
lying down shot 3 times from his revolver, one shot taking effect on
Riley's leg. Bynum survived but a short time after he was shot.
December 30. 1962 Ernest started in the rain for his regiment now at
Cumberland Gap. Sam Fain and others went with him. The day was rainy
and unpleasant. It is reported that abolitionist forces occupied Blountville
yesterday.
1863
)
Thursday, January 1, 1863 This morning a large white frost and hard
freeze. The day was pretty and sun shining. Various reports as to the
abolition force are in circulation. It is reported that they encamped at
Robert Netherland's yesterday evening and intend coming to Rogersville
today.
January 2, 1863 Another large frost this morning and hard freeze. The day
mostly sun shiney. I learn today that the abolition army crossed Clinch
Mountain at Louncy's Gap and camped at Elijah Anderson's last night and
this morning. They started in the direction of Kentucky and are supposed
to be at least 2000. They burned the bridges across the Holston and
Watauga and took all the good horses they could find.
January 4, 1863 We have news of a great battle having been fought near
Murfreesboro, TN on the 31st between our forces under Gen. Bragg and the
Abolition Army commanded by Rosencrans in which our troops were
victorious but with the sacrifice of many of our gallant men who inflicted
a tremendous loss on our enemies. For this triumphant victory we give
praise to the almightly and pray for him to shield and protect us in this
37
�our day of trouble and need and at an early day bring this unnatural war to
a close and give us our rights and liberties and make the Southern
Confederacy a nation of Christians.
February 17, 1863 My wife went to town yesterday evening for the
purpose of going this morning to Mossy Creek. She returned this evening
without going in consequence of the unfavorable report of the weather. I t
continued to rain slowly nearly the entire day.
February 22, 1863 Last night was a continued rain and still very cloudy
this morning. This is the birthday of that greatest of all mortals - General
Washington. If he is allowed to look on scenes that are now transpiring in
this the land of his birth and greatness he cannot but be surprised and
mortified to see one section of these he had been instrumental in giving
liberty and government making war on the other for the purpose of
enslaving the white race to free the Negroes and that with the most
barbaric and cruel war known in the last century.
March 27, 1863 A large white frost this morning, very cold, ice. I fear the
peaches are killed. The ground froze on top. This is the day set apart by the
Proclamation of President Davis as a day of fasting, humiliation and
prayer for the people of the Southern Confederacy. I went today and heard
delivered a most excellent sermon by Reverend Mr. Robinson at the 1 st
Presbyterian Church. The text was the 13th chapter of Romans from the
1st to 6th verses .
April 7, 1863 The black mare had a colt last night. She was in the meadow
and had it in the Branch. It was found dead in the Branch this morning.
April 26, 1863 Got home today about 1 o'clock from Cumberland Gap and
brought Ernest with me. He is sick with jaundice, has been complaining for
some time. This was the first time I was ever at the Gap. It is strongly
fortified. It will be difficult to take.
May 10, 1863 We learn that another fight occurred not far from
Fredricksburg at a place called Chancellorsville in which our army was
again victorious. Stonewall Jackson was severely wounded but very few of
the particulars have been received.
38
�May 19, 1863 This is my 56th birthday being born in 1807. This morning
quite cool which has been for several mornings past.
June 17, 1863 My son Ernest started this morning for his regiment at
Cumberland Gap. Nicholas went with him to bring the horse back.
July 21, 1863 A very hard rain fell last night. This day two years ago the
great battle of Manassas was fought since which our armies have been
victorious on many hard fought and bloody fields.
August 23, 1863 George Merryman's daughter Jane was buried this day.
The weather has been extremely hot for several days and dry. Corn is
suffering very much. I left home on the 2nd and returned on the 17th. I
went down to Knoxville the morning of the 4th and returned in the evening
to the plains. We learn that the 63th Tenn. Regiment left the plains on the
21st and now learn they have been ordered to Kingston. This I as t
information was not correct as the regiment joined Bragg's army.
Sept. to Nov. of 1863. I left home the 8th and went up the country. The
Yankees it was then said was at Morristown. I returned home on the 30th.
The next day a Yanky squad came to town and I went up that evening to
Henry Watterson's and stayed all night. The next day I returned home but
on the next day the 3th of October I left home again and went to Eldridge
Hord's that night and stayed there until the 5th and went that day to Col.
Isaac Anderson's and Wednesday the 8th went to Cousin Thomas Fain's and
stayed until the 19th and was there during the last fight at Blountville
which was on the 14th. I stayed the 19th at Mr. Corran's near Bristol and
on the 20th went to Mrs. Jane Vance's in Virginia. I returned to Tennessee
about the 26th or 17th and got back to Thomas Fain's on Thursday the 29th
and next day went to Mr. Neals. On the 31st I went to Bristol and the same
evening went to Baker Dunn's and made that my headquarters until the 4th
of November.
On the 2nd of Nov. I met with Fain Powel near Bristol. Col. Heiskell's wife
was with him. He had just come from Rogersville and informed me of the
death of my noble boy Nicholas who had died of diptheria on Friday evening
twenty minutes before four on October 30th 1863. His sickness was about
three days. On Wednesday the 25th of Nov. I had heard that my sweet little
)
39
�girl Cornelia had died also of diptheria on Sunday morning the 15th of Nov.
at 9 o'clock and was buried on Monday beside her brother Nicholas in
Rogersville at the 2nd Presbyterian Church. In the brief space of my
absence two of my children were taken from me and layed in the silent
tomb.
During my absence the Yankees held undisputed possession of the country
and marauded all over it destroying the property of Southern men. A
Yankee brigade camped round my place and injured me very seriously using
my grain, cattle and burning my rails. They put a great many Southern men
in jail and otherwise treated the pople very badly making a cruel and
uncivilized war such as a civilized nation would not wage.
Nov. 30, 1863 This morning Gene Ransom's forces camped on stage road
and left this morning in the direction of Bean Station.
Dec. 9, 1863 This morning about three o'clock my son Ernest got home
from the army to spend a short time with two soldiers of his company.
)
Dec. 10, 1863 My son Thomas Cross Fain died this evening at 10 minutes
after three o'clock of diptheria. Tomy was a noble boy. He had the best
physical and mental developments of any child I ever saw.
Dec. 11, 1863 We buried our sweet little boy Tomy this evening between
sundown and dark at the burial ground of the second Presbyterian church.
The Rev. Mr. Robinson prayed at the grave. We had to return and leave him
no more to see him.
Dec. 25, 1863 This is Christmas day but that joyousness which has
heretofore ushered in the day is gone. Three of our dear children that was
with us at the last one, have been but recently layed in their cold graves
and we never shall see them more. Yes, Nicholas our noble boy, Cornelia
our sweet songstress and Thomas whose bright smile gave us so much of
joy are not here. They join us no longer in the holiday. They are now
entering their voices with angels in Heaven, nevermore to sorrow.
_)
40
�1864
Friday, January 1, 1864 It has been far from being a happy new years day
to me. My misfortunes of the last year has been so great, almost more than
I can bear. The greatest is the loss of my dear children. They are gone to
the grave and on this day we do so much miss them from our family
circles. We shall no longer hear their voices, in the greetings of the day
leaving a sad void in our home circle.
Jan. 5. 1864
Ernest started today to his regiment now at Morristown.
Jan. 6, 1864 Ernest came back last night, could not get across the river.
He started again this morning and it snowed on up to about the middle of
the day.
Easter Sunday April 27, 1864 A large white frost this morning. Ernest got
home last evening about dark. The day sun shiney and pleasant until late in
the evening it clouded more like a spring day than any before of this
season.
April 28, 1864 Cloudy this morning. (this is followed by 5 blank pages and
the next entry is a year later)
1865
Saturday May 13, 1865 Started from Cousin Thomas Fain's for home
where I had been staying, got home the same evening. Col. Parson had sent
me word to come home as I should be protected.
Tuesday June 27, 1865 Started for Mossy Creek having made an
arrangement with Col. Sam N. Fain to clerk for him. Had considerable
difficulty to raise four dollars to pay railroad fare. I got to Mossy Creek
factory same day, commenced working for him as clerk on Thursday
evening June 29th 1865. On Monday July 3, 1865 went to Knoxville, Col.
Sam N. Fain went with me where took the oath of allegiance before Wm.
Heiskell commissioner of which the following is a true copy:
41
�United States of America,
United States Commissioners office, Knoxville, July 3, 1865
I William Heiskell, commissioner of the Circuit of the United States for
the district of East Tennessee do hereby certify that Hiram Fain Senior of
the county of Hawkins and state of Tennessee, whose genuine signature is
signed to the amnesty oath here following did on this day and year
aforesaid, freely and voluntarily take and subscribe said oath before me in
accordance with the President's Proclamation of the 29th of May 1865.
Given under my hand and official seal the day and year aforesaid.
(Signed) Wm. Heiskell, comm. circuit court of the United States District of
East Tennessee
I Hiram Fain Sen. do solemnly swear in the presence of Almighty God that I will henceforth
faithfully support and defend the constitution of the Unites States and the Union of the states
thereunder; and that I will in like manner abide by and faithfully support all Laws and
Proclamations which have been made during the existing rebellion with reference to the
emancipation of slaves so help me God.
Returned July 4, 1865 to Mossy Creek. Paid Wm. Heiskell $2 for his fees.
On Saturday August 19th 1865 I came home on my way to Bristol on
business of the factory. Left home on friday the 25th and reached the same
evening Tom Fains. On the 27th commenced to Blountville and the 28th to
Bristol and back to Blountville the 29th, to Tom Fain's on the 30th and got
back home of the 5th of September. Started for Mossy Creek in company
with Perry Powel and Mr. Joseph Russell who were on their way to Illinois.
We got on the railroad at Whitesburg the same evenming and back to Mossy
Creek. On Friday Oct. 20, 1865 started for home which I reached same
evening.
November 1, 1865 Having rented out my farm to Col. Walker with a view of
going to Memphis we finished packing up our things and all the family
went to town this evening: my wife, Ernest, Lucy, Ida, Sallie and myself.
We started this morning from Rogersville in the rain in company with
sister Eliza Ruth Powel and her family on their way to Georgia and my
family to Memphis. I parted with them on the train at Mossy Creek. They
all went on. I returned to the factory. My sister and her family parted with
mine at Cleveland. The train was crowded with passengers moving away
)
42
�from violence and oppression.
Went from Mossy Creek on Tuesday Nov. 28, 1865 to Knoxville to attend
the Federal Court having been indicted as order to the cause of the South.
I returned on Nov. 30th, then went back to Knoxville on the 7th of Dec and
returned next day to the factory. I went back to Knoxville on Dec. 10th and
returned the next day.
1866
January 8, 1866 Started for Hawkins, stopped with F. W. Taylor that night
and the next day got to Col. Walkers and was at home on January 10, 1866.
Left home for Mossy Creek on Monday January 15, 1866 and stayed at Ham
Carmichael's and the next morning the 16th started at daylight and got
back to Mossy Creek the same evening Wednesday 31 Jan. 1866. Left Mossy
Creek, got on the train about 12 o'clock and got to Memphis on Friday at
about 11 a.m. The same evening (February 2) went out to Mr. Bartlett's the
next day. On Saturday February 3 went to Mrs. Cross, got there about 2 p.m
where I found my wife and several of the children. On Wednesday Feb. 7th
went to Matthew Rhea's, the next day the 8th to Somerville, in the eveing
to Mr. Parker's (10th), returned to Mrs. Cross on the 20th, to Major
Bartletts (21st) to Memphis and next to R. F. Looneys.
1867
Tuesday evening February 13, 1867 My wife and myself went with our
daughter Lucy on board the steamer St. Patrick (Capt. Berry) on her way to
Bolivar County, Mississippi where she is going to teach a school being
employed by Mr. Joe Boyd in whose case she travels. The boat is a fine one.
She met on the boat with Miss Bond and her brother, also Captain Carmack.
April 9, 1867 After much disappointment and entire failure in my efforts
to procure employment and finding those that promised most assistance
did nothing to aid me I concluded to return home. On the morning of
Tuesday, April 9, 1867 left Major Barlett's in the rain with my wife, Ida
and Sallie. We took the Memphis train and went to Col. R. F. Looney's and
stayed with him until Thursday evening the 11th.
43
�At 6:40 we left Memphis on the Memphis and Charleston Railroad for home,
my wife and two of my children with me. The other two Ernest and Lucy
being left. Ernest at Bartlett, he being depot agent and Lucy still in
Mississippi teaching. We reached Rogersville Junction on Saturday morning
about 2 o'clock. We got safely to Rogersville about 5 o'clock in the
evening, the next day Sunday the 14th about 11 a.m got home. All rejoiced
at our safe arrival with Ida and Sallie greatly pleased.
The cost of the trip from Memphis to Rogersville: railroad fare to
Knoxville $65.35, from Knoxville to Junction $9.25, from Junction to River
$3.00, wagon to town $2, tavern bill at R. Junction $4, drayage in Memphis
for trunk $1 making $84.60.
Instead of finding my place improved as I expected, I found it more
dilapidated than when I left, Col. Walker not having complied with his
contract to pay a reasonable rent for the first year in improvements on
the farm. It is a sad reflection, that hordes of Northern Vandals should
have come down upon us without cause, robbed and brought poverty and
distress everywhere, leaving me like many others in extreme poverty and
this in my time of life, when it is hardly possible for me to start again in
life.
Sunday April 28, 1867 Ida brought my old man Kit home from Mr. Carmack.
May 2, 1867 Thursday evening we took our first meal since our arrival at
home to ourselves all being present my wife, Ida, Sallie and myself in the
old dining room. I had made an arrangement with Col. Walker by which we
were to occupy a part of the house: the dining room, the parlor and the
room over it. Up to this time we had been eating with Col. Walker. I
furnished part of the provisions - some flour and butter.
Wednesday Oct. 2, 1867 Col. Walker and family moved out of my house.
Oct. 3, 1867 Col. Walker took balance of his things out of the house. Gus
and family moved out of the kitchen.
Nov. 16, 1867 Very much to our gratification our two absent children
Ernest and Lucy arrived at home. Lucy to remain and Ernest to return.
)
44
�Nov. 19, 1867 Our son Ernest started this morning at half after 7 o'clock
for Bartlett.
Nov. 30, 1867 (For the first time since March of 1864 Hiram starts
commenting about the weather - editorial comment) Rained last night and
a hard freeze this morning the day cold.
Dec. 15, 1867 A large snow on the ground this morning, having fallen
during the night and still cloudy this morning and very cold.
Dec. 22, 1867 Cloudy this morning and mild. Yesterday as warm as a spring
day. The latter part of the week mild and cloudy. News received yesterday
of the death of old Mrs. Powel and that her corpse would be brought here
for internment.
Christmas 1867 Sprinkling rain this morning with heavy clouds. We are at
home this morning, but Ernest and Lucy. the latter is in town and Ernest in
Shelby County of this state. My wife and Sallie went to F. M. Fulkersons
and Ida to her uncle Richards to dine. I remained at home alone. The day
mostly cloudy and warm with occasional sunshine.
)
Dec. 26, 1867 Rained heavily during last night, with thunder and lightning.
My wife and Ida have gone to town to attend the burial of Mrs. Powel. She
was to be interred this morning. The day warm with occasional sunshine.
Mrs. Powel was buried in the Old School Church burying grounds. She died
in Illinois and her remains were brought here by Son Perry.
December :27, 1867 All the children Lucy, Ida and Sallie are in town
stayed for a concert. My wife and myself all that at home. This morning
again warm and a little cloudy, like a spring morning.
Sun. Dec. 29, 1867 Still cloudy this morning and a little cooler. It has been
warm and sultry for several day. Perry Powel called on us a little while
this morning. He starts home tomorrow.
Dec. 31, 1867 A deep snow on the ground this morning which averaged 8 to
10 inches. Rainy and freezing as it falls on top of the snow this morning.
_)
45
�1868
January 1, 1868 This is a gloomy morning to commence the year with.
There is now no longer any joyousness for our prospects for the year is as
gloomy as the morning. All my living family is at home this morning
except Ernest. The day continued cloudy and very unpleasant.
January 6, 1868 Rained during the last night and still raining this morning.
Continued to rain all day and still raining at bedtime. Lucy has been for
several days quite unwell with cold and sore throat. Joe Walker came out
this evening to see her and cauterized her throat.
February 14, 1868 Another cold morning and hard freeze. The sun came out
brightly and a good deal of snow melted today. I commenced to plow today
in the field above the house for corn.
February 16, 1868 The day mostly sunshiney then cloudy and sprinkling
rain a little. Old Brin had twin calves this morning.
March 15, 1868 Very cloudy this morning. Lilac bushes and other shrubbery
on the grounds are putting on their green leaves. It thundered some during
the morning and a shower before noon.
March 17, 1868 Still cloudy this morning. The sun out a little while. About
8 a.m heavy clouds, wind and rain began and it continued showering pretty
much all day. I received today from Ernest a box by express containing
four extra fine peach trees, two are Hales Early and four Concord grapes
one of them for Wm. Carmack as a present.
March 18, 1868 Quite cool this morning and a little cloudy. Considerable
wind during last night but the day bright and sunshiney. Cool in the
morning. Put out today the peach trees and grapes vines sent by Ernest.
Two of the peaches in the yard and two in the orchard along the wall. The
grapes were put in the garden. Stephen Spitser moved today to the cabin
put up by him.
March 20, 1868 rained a little while this morning and windy during the
46
�latter part of the night. Some sarvice trees and a peach tree in the orchard
in bloom this morning. The day continued cloudy, cold and windy with in
the evening occasional flakes of snow.
March 26, 1868 Cloudy again this morning. Vegetation is coming forward
rapidly. The sugar trees begin to look green. Rained a light shower in the
morning.
March 29, 1868 Rained a little this morning. I think vegetation is now as
far advanced as it was last year at the middle of April. Peach trees are in
full bloom and several kind of trees and shrubs are putting on their greens.
The day was mostly rainy.
March 31, 1868 A large white frost this morning. The day bright and
sunshiney. So the last day of March went out like a lamb but with a Ii t t I e
wind in the evening.
April 6, 1868 A large frost this morning and ice. The rain trough froze
over. The ice as thick as window lights - ground froze. Those that I have
talked too think most of the peaches are killed.
April 22, 1868 A little frost this morning. The sun in getting up clear. The
catbirds made their appearance today.
May 1, 1868 This morning pleasant but a little cloudy. The day mostly
sunshiney and very pleasant. This is the first day of the year we did not
have fire.
May 7, 1868 An immense quantity of rain fell last night. My branch high
enough to float the foot log out of its place.
May 19, 1868 The sun is getting up clear. The morning quite cool. This is
my birthday. I am today sixty one years old.
June 6, 1868 The day hot, in the evening heavy clouds made their
appearance with thunder in the distance and strong wind, raising the dust
in clouds and about 5 the rain commenced coming down quite heavy and
continued with but little intermission until near night. The wind blew
47
�down some of my wheat and some grass in the meadow.
June 11 , 1868 Considerable fog this morning. The day warm and sunshiney.
Mrs. Joseph Russell, Mrs. Sevier, Mrs. Hale, Miss Penelope Neill, Miss Ella
Walker and Major Stringfield were with us this evening and stayed until
after supper.
June 24, 1868 Another cool morning and a little cloudy. I went to town
this morning and agreed with Mr. Shields to draw off all the accounts on
the Simpson books for which he promised to pay me liberally.
June 25, 1868 Still cool this morning and a little cloudy. Commenced to
cut my wheat in the meadow, finished by dinner time.
June 26, 1868 I went to town this morning and commenced to work for Mr.
Shields. Brought out some of the books of the Simpson's and commenced
writing after dinner at home.
June 30, 1868 This morning warmer and a little cloudy. Powel Fain with
his hands commenced to cut the wheat in the field next to the Knobs on
yesterday and finished this evening.
July 4, 1868 A little cloudy this morning. The day very hot, about night
some thunder and lightning and a very little rain fell. This day the
Democratic Convention meets in the City of New York. I pray that God may
bless its action and that great good may result to the country and that the
party now in power, who have betrayed the people and are destroying the
Constitution with the libertys of the people shall soon be put down and
that peace and plenty will again smile on us.
July 10, 1868 The morning warm with some fog. Powel Fain commenced
with hands to cut oats in the field I rented him.
July 17, 1868 Another warm morning. Corn is beginning to suffer for rain.
The day excessively hot. Sam Gammon came this evening.
July 31, 1868 Quite a fog this morning and cloudy. Finished getting in my
hay from lower meadow. Dick commenced hauling in hay for spring
48
�meadow. We have had this month more extreme hot weather than has been
for many years.
August 12, 1868 Still cloudy this morning. Mrs. Fulkerson spent the day
with us and my daughter Sallie went to Sulphur Spring to stay with her
aunt Eliza Ruth a few days.
Sunday August 30, 1868 This morning warm, sultry and cloudy. Eliza
Heiskell and Liby Rogan stayed last night with us.
Sept. 5, 1868 A dense fog this morning. No rain today. My son Ernest got
home this evening at which we were all rejoiced.
Sept. 7, 1868 Raining again this morning but very little rain fell today.
Ernest had a chill today and considerable fever. Joseph Gammon and wife
here today.
)
Sept. 26, 1868 My son Ernest left us this morning on his return to Bartlett.
I was up before day and saw two Jack O'Lanterns. They were in the lane
leading to R .. G. Fains . I first saw one, then it appeared double after
remaining some time. One of them went along the road by my brothers
stable and the other went out. When I first saw them I thought some
person was carrying a large torch.
October 5, 1868 Still a little cloudy today. I signed today a quit claim
deed to my sister Eliza R. Powel for the tavern property in town.
Nov. 5, 1868 I fell off the fence today receiving a bad hurt. My shoulder
and neck bone seem to be injured.
Dec. 6, 1868 This morning still cloudy. I received a letter from brother
George last night, dated 29th. It was the first I had from him since the
War. He was at North Middletown, Ky. I also got one from Ernest.
Dec. 25, 1868 Christmas snowed some during the night and the ground is
nearly covered. Several took dinner with us today. Mr. Fulkerson and 2
daughters, my sister Nancy and E. R. Powel with some of their families and
others.
_)
49
�1869
Friday, January 1, 1869 The New Year opens on us with sadness. Our
prospects are gloomy, indeed our republic destroyed and the little left to
the Southern people will soon be swallowed up by robbers in the way
taxes.
January 5, 1869 My nephew Hiram Fain died this morning at his own house
at 4 o'clock with hemorrhage of the stomach. He was taken on last
Saturday morning and vomited a large amount of blood.
January 17, 1869 A little frost this morning and cloudy. Mrs. P. S. Hale
stayed with us last night.
January 19, 1869 This morning still cloudy and cold. Today Cheutaro
served a summons on me to appear next Monday at the circuit court at the
instance of Dix Alexander as security (I suppose) on the bond of R. G. Fain
as C & M (clerk and master).
January 24, 1869 A large white frost this morning. I saw F. M. Fulkerson
today and spoke to him to attend to suit D. Alexander has brought against
me and thus on R. G. Fain's bond as clerk and master.
February 2, 1869 Ham Hood and Wm. Tipton stayed last night with me. They
were hauling bacon to town. It rained most of the day.
February 22, 1869 Raining this morning, continued showering during the
day. This is the birthday of the great good and patriotic George
Washington. He did more than any other man to free the American People
from the tyranny of the British and what is lamentable is that the
Southern People who did more to sustain the government as formed by
Washington and his compatriots are now enslaved by Northern Fanatics and
the republic destroyed.
Sunday March 28, 1869 Easter Again cloudy this morning. Some of our
peach trees nearly in full bloom. Rev. J. Bachman stayed last night with us.
50
�March 31, 1869 Frost this morning. The day pleasant and mostly sunshiney.
My son Ernest came home this evening bringing a wife. He married Sallie
Ana Glover at Bartlett, Shelby County, Tenn. His mother and sisters gave
them a small party. Several young folks were present. All seemed to enjoy
themselves until about 12 when the party broke up. The ceremony was
performed by Rev . Mr. Mulins at about 7 a.m. on yesterday. They soon took
the train and got home at about 5 p.m.
April 5, 1869 A large white frost this morning and hard freeze. The day
continued cold, windy and mostly cloudy. Ernest was quite sick all day, had
a chill of fever. Sent for Joe Walker to see him.
April 11, 1869 The sugar trees and others are beginning to put on their
green coats. It is believed most of the peaches are killed. Heard a martin
on Friday last.
April 26, 1869 Still cloudy this mnorning,. The cat bird made his
appearance this morning. I see it stated in the Knoxville paper that my
uncle John R. Fain died on Sunday morning the 18th at his son-in-laws
(Samuel Mitchell) in the 83rd year of his age.
May 4, 1869 Ernest, his wife Ida and Sallie with other went to the Nise
today.
May 14, 1869 Still very cloudy this morning. I have been quite unwell for a
few days and no better this morning. The day cold, rainy and windy - a
little snow came down for a short time.
May 19, 1869 Still cloudy this morning. This is my 62nd birthday. The day
was cool with some wind and mostly cloudy. Nancy McCarty (my sister)
came in the evening.
May 31, 1869 This morning cool and a little cloudy. The day quite warm in
the sun with a breeze during most of the day. Bro. Richard and wife, my
wife and myself went to sister Eliza's today and remained most of the
day.
)
51
�July 4, 1869 A little cloudy this morning. Our people have forgotten the
principles announced in the Declaration of Independence by our forefathers
and are constantly loosing their liberties in a Radical Congress .
Commenced raining about 1 p.m. and rained with occasional interruption
pretty much all evening.
July 7, 1869 Lucy got home today about 12. She brought with her Ida,
Mariah and Rebecca Earnest. They got to town yesterday evening. Tate
Earnest is also along.
Sunday July 11, 1869 A warm morning - a little cloudy. yesterday
Robison's Menagerie was exhibited in town. A great many people white and
black went to town, commenced going before sun up. In the evening Ben
Ross was brought to my house in a stupor of drunkedness. This morning i t
is mostly gone off .
July 14, 1869 Lucy left home this morning to return to her school at
Jessie Earnest's in Greene County.
August 5, 1869 I went to town today and voted for Senter.
August 7, 1869 In the evening nearly a total eclipse of the sun (about 6
p.m.) lasting about 5 minutes. Stars were seen, chicken went to roost. It
was a very striking phenomena of Nature.
October 12, 1869 Raining lightly about daylight. Rained during the day,
towards evening got quite cold. Ida and Sallie started to school at Female
College in town .
November 9, 1869 Raining this morning and cold. Ernest's wife gave birth
about 12 last night to a 7 month old boy child. Dr. George Gammon present.
The day was dark, cloudy and drizzly - an unpleasant day.
November 19, 1869 Cloudy this morning and some freeze last night. My
daughter Lucie started this morning for Jesse Earnest's in Greene County.
She goes to teach his children for 5 months going up on the railroad train.
52
�Christmas, Dec. 25, 1869 Some freeze last night, but quite cloudy this
morning - commenced to sprinkle rain soon after breakfast. My children all
from home this morning. Ida, Sallie and Ernest in town to attend a concert
at the Institute last night. Lucie in Greene County at Jessie Earnest's
where she is teaching school. Ernest got home this evening along with Ida
and Sallie.
1870
Saturday, January 1, 1970 Raining a little this morning. A slight freeze
last night. I pray for the kind guidance and protection of our Heavenly
Father for myself and family throughout the present year, and sincerely
thank him for the many undeserved favors during the year that has just
past. Oh Father lead us in the strait path that leads to glory and to eternal
happiness hereafter for Jesus sake, Amen. The day continued cloudy and
moderated in the evening.
January 11, 1870 Brother George came this evening from Kentucky where
he had been staying for several years
January 26, 1870 Sallie started yesterday going to school to institute. Ida
has.. not gone for more than two months and lost a good deal of time
previously by toothache or neuralgia.
February 28, 1870 The wind continued through last night and continues
this morning and still cloudy.
End of diary with half a page blank on the inside back cover of this bound volume
which was started 20 years previously. The book was 5/8th of an inch thick and
its dimensions are 8 l /2 by l 0 l /2 inches. The pages are bound in board with
leather corners and spine but with a marbled paper cover front and back. The
book was not recycled from some other use but consisted of blank pages of
good quality paper which has yellowed some with age. Some of the entries are
in ink and all are still legible. Most of the diary is reporting the weather and was not
transcribed unless there were other items of interest on a particular day.
j
53
�
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Hiram Fain Diary Transcript
Description
An account of the resource
The Hiram Fain Diary Transcript, held by the <a href="http://www.etsu.edu/archives" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Archives of Appalachia</a> at East Tennessee State University, consists of a transcript of the diary of Hiram Fain that contains Fain's observations between October 21, 1850 and February 28, 1870. In the diary, Hiram Fain relates his day-to-day activities including planting and harvesting at Spring Vale Farm, legal activities such as preparing wills, working at the bank, and caring for livestock. He also describes weather conditions, astronomical events, an earthquake in 1861, the sale of slaves, the illness and death of family and friends, and local events and news. In his daily accounts during the Civil War, Fain notes the news received from battles and federal activity in East Tennessee, providing insight into the difficulties experienced by Confederate sympathizers in East Tennessee following the war. The diary was transcribed in 1994 by John N. Fain, and the original diary is held by the Calvin M. McClung Historical Collection in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
Fain, Hiram
Source
A related resource from which the described resource is derived
<a href="https://archives.etsu.edu/repositories/2/resources/276" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hiram Fain Diary Transcript</a>, Archives of Appalachia, East Tennessee State University
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1850-10-21 to 1870-02-28 [diary]
1994 [transcript]
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
The Archives of Appalachia at East Tennessee State University provides access to the materials on this website for the purposes of research and education, provided that proper citation is used (e.g. [identification of item], [identification of collection], Archives of Appalachia, East Tennessee State University). Any commercial uses of the materials or any uses that exceed the limits of fair use and other relevant statutory exceptions require the permission of the Archives of Appalachia and the copyright holder(s). It is the user's obligation to determine and satisfy copyright or other use restrictions when publishing or otherwise distributing materials.<br /><br />Compressed (low resolution) files are available on this website. Requests for accessing uncompressed (high resolution) versions of this material can be sent to the Archives of Appalachia.<br /><br /><strong>Items in this collection are presented for their historic and research value. They may contain content that some viewers will find objectionable.</strong>
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
ETSU Archives of Appalachia: AppMs-0463
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Hiram Fain Diary Transcript
Description
An account of the resource
The Hiram Fain Diary Transcript, held by the <a href="http://www.etsu.edu/archives" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Archives of Appalachia</a> at East Tennessee State University, consists of a transcript of the diary of Hiram Fain that contains Fain's observations between October 21, 1850 and February 28, 1870. In the diary, Hiram Fain relates his day-to-day activities including planting and harvesting at Spring Vale Farm, legal activities such as preparing wills, working at the bank, and caring for livestock. He also describes weather conditions, astronomical events, an earthquake in 1861, the sale of slaves, the illness and death of family and friends, and local events and news. In his daily accounts during the Civil War, Fain notes the news received from battles and federal activity in East Tennessee, providing insight into the difficulties experienced by Confederate sympathizers in East Tennessee following the war. The diary was transcribed in 1994 by John N. Fain, and the original diary is held by the Calvin M. McClung Historical Collection in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
Fain, Hiram
Source
A related resource from which the described resource is derived
<a href="https://archives.etsu.edu/repositories/2/resources/276" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hiram Fain Diary Transcript</a>, Archives of Appalachia, East Tennessee State University
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1850-10-21 to 1870-02-28 [diary]
1994 [transcript]
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
The Archives of Appalachia at East Tennessee State University provides access to the materials on this website for the purposes of research and education, provided that proper citation is used (e.g. [identification of item], [identification of collection], Archives of Appalachia, East Tennessee State University). Any commercial uses of the materials or any uses that exceed the limits of fair use and other relevant statutory exceptions require the permission of the Archives of Appalachia and the copyright holder(s). It is the user's obligation to determine and satisfy copyright or other use restrictions when publishing or otherwise distributing materials.<br /><br />Compressed (low resolution) files are available on this website. Requests for accessing uncompressed (high resolution) versions of this material can be sent to the Archives of Appalachia.<br /><br /><strong>Items in this collection are presented for their historic and research value. They may contain content that some viewers will find objectionable.</strong>
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
0463_diary