Personal Page of $Name

Anna "Annie" Jacobs

Personal Data:

Item	Date	Place/Description
Birth	20 Sep 1875	New York, New York

Parents:

Parent	Name
Father	John K. Jacobs
Mother	Marie M. Ehlers

Personal Note(s):

Note Number	Note Text
1	[Ehlers Family History.FBK.FBK.FBK.FBK.FTW] Following are a series of letters by Anna. She also was the keeper of a diary which was dated 1898-99. The diary tells of her life working and living with the Eldridge family in Bellingham. It was a prominent family. Later she and her sister(s) started a boarding house on the campus near Edens Hall. Many faculty and staff are mentioned as well as her feelings about events, including the Spanish-American War. Of particular interest was the beginnings of what is now Western Washington University. It also gives an excellent view of life in the Lynden and Clearbrook area in pioneer Washington Territory. Any notes from the diary that could not fit here are continued under her sister, Pauline's, note section. 1. Excerpts of a letter to Laura Ehlers Hunter, December 2, 1934. Raymond, Wa. "Life goes on for us in the same merry way and we have nothing to complain of but much to be thankful for...The folks hope to spend Christmas together. Wouldn't it be fine if the Ehlers and Jacobs tribe, root and branch, could all get together once and spend Christmas together. I'm sure I've never seen Margaret. I saw Jim's children the last time I was was at Mommie's. They all looked good to me and I hope they all have high ideals and love the beautiful and good things of life." 2. Excerpts of a letter to Laura and Mindy (Nancy Dobbs Ehlers). December 19, 1938. Raymond, Wa. "I was over to Celia's and stayed nine days. Ray and Dorothy came from California on a visit and they wanted me to go with them so I did. Celia has a real comfortable home. Pauline stayed at Celia's while we were there as the house where she lives was too cold for the babies. She rode on the school bus. She had four days of vacation and had to go back to teaching Monday after Thanksgiving. I went with her to her school and we stayed there two days and then went back to Celia's. Pauline's school is eight miles from where Celia lives. She has three pupils. She lives in the school house. It has two rooms. A girl stays with her at nights. She is quite well so far this fall and content because she has a school." "Dorothy & Ray are back in California. Had to be there by the 14th as Ray had to go back to work. Dorothy's boys are real cute. The baby is a regular little angel, always smiling and seldom cried. They both had colds while at Celia's and worried us greatly. Dorothy is happy and all wrapped up in her husband and boys and she likes all his folks." "I kept well and able to do a lot of digging to grow flowers. I sold all I had in spite of dull times. There was so much labor trouble here most of the year but now it seems settled and they say all mills and camps will be running by February. I am getting on the same as ever. Have the same renters and with my rent and flower sales I get on alright. The Lord takes care of me." 3. Excerpts of a letter to Laura dated October 24, 1948 from Lynden, Wa. "It is very kind of you to want to send our relatives something. They need milk fat and coffee. They need most everything. I sent a variety of things but I can't get whole dried milk here. One can send more dried things as they are lighter so more can be sent....It is pitiful how people are suffering in Europe and it is our duty to help them what we can. Bill, Frances, Walter & Vera are back from their hunting trip so they have had their vacation. We expect to go to Lynden with Frances tomorrow. Last Sunday Celia, Harry & Wayne came." "Well, we will soon be voting. May the Lord guide our pens that we vote for honest upright God fearing men. I believe in the Townsend Plan and so will vote for those in my district who are for it. These are for it: H. Jones, H.M. Jackson, Thor C. Tollefson but I won't vote for Vic Meyers nor for Walgren but for Langley, Peterson Velleca & Hawley as someone I trust said they are o.k. Most people want good men in office but don't know who they are. Do you know some good ones?" 4. Excerpts of a letter to Laura & G.G. from Anne and Mamie dated January 28, 1960 from Lynden. "This morning who should come by but Mary. She brought lunch or dinner...She is still very nervous. I know how she suffers as I have been thru it...I talked with Adele over the phone this morning and she said she felt fine and her stomach is ok now. She did look bad for awhile. Jim came to see us one day while Adele was on her trip. Isabelle brought him up." "...Mamie is still the same. She can't stand up and may never walk again. I could not get her in a wheelchair as she can't stand alone and I don't dare lift her. She is comfortable in bed and has no pain. I prop her up in bed when she eats and sometimes put her feet on the floor....If Mamie died I would not stay here alone." DIARY---March 30, 1898 to December 20, 1899: "March 30, 1898, Wednesday. I haven't my other diary quite full yet but as the days are marked in it it leaves only a small space to write in so I will write in this one. I must write my surprize first. It was this: I got three letters all at once this evening. One from home, one from Pauline and one from Mr. C. Werner. I knew who they were from before I opened them. Inside of the home letter was one from Mrs. Edwards. I thought she had forgotten me. There were twenty eight pages with all the letters. Mama wrote Julia & I a German letter. I could read it all. Celia said that (St. J.) came home for a visit. I wish I could have seen him, as I haven't seen him since the evening before I went to Blue Canyon. Mr. W. writes that he is well pleased there. Today has been lovely, nice and still and warm. As I had to got to the the lecture this afternoon, and as Nannie was over at Eden's, I thought I would tell Maud, as she went home for lunch, to ask N. if she would like to go with me. When Maud came past again she told me that Nannie would come so I waited for her and we went together. She was going to visit a friend, so as I had time before the lecture, I went with her there. We arranged before I left that we would go to James St. tomorrow but just at supper she telephoned up and said that she had changed her mind so we won't go. The lecture was over the "Fair". I did not get very much good of it some way. Mrs. E. gave me a bottle of ink so now I don't have to buy any." "Friday, April 1--Fools Day. It is now about nine o'clock. I have been reading my letters over again. I have not started to answer them yet. It rained some this fore noon but was nice this afternoon. Yesterday I went on to Nannie's and we were going to James St. but she felt too bad so I spent the afternoon there at Mr. Coopers. Before I left Nannie started to feel very bad so she thought she had better go to Edens to get her things ready and go home. So she came with me when I left. We took the car as she wasn't able to walk very far and to where we were going was quite a ways. This morning I was over to see her. She felt much better. She took the boat for home this evening. This afternoon I went down with her to help her get her belongings. This evening, when I told her good bye, it made me feel lonesome. Ed carried her valise for her. Bob April Fooled me by telling me I had dropped my handkerchief. I have started to make myself a waist." "Saturday, April 2, 1898. It is now about nine o'clock. May and I are her alone. She is writing in her diary now too. Mr. Eldridge is in Seattle. He went on the two o'clock train today. Mrs. E. and Tessa went to the card club. It has been a lovely day and now it is lovely outdoors as the moon is shining so bright and it is so nice and still. This afternoon I thought I would go to see Millie so I went (several lines of German) I also saw Josie. She says they are all well. She isn't as fat now as she was. I went to Millie's by way of the P.O. I thought perhaps there would be a letter for me. The office was not open. I got the children some bananas. Millie was surprized to see me. I had a very good visit. (several lines of German)" "Sunday, April 3, 1898. It now half past five. I am in our room. After I got through with my work, I went out and looked at the flowers awhile. It is lovely out now. It is real still and the sun shines just warm enough. I went to church this morning and hope I can go tonight. His text was taken from the thirty second verse of the 12th chapter of St. John. The morning reading was the thirty third chapter of Ezekil. A man by the name of Mr. Williams joined the church this morning. He had nothing to do but to say yes to the questions. I hope I can stay a month yet, but I may have to go any time. It is now almost eight. I have just gotten back from Edens. I went to see if Carrie was going to church but she was out bicycle riding and didn't come Home in time. I stayed awhile and then came home as Mrs. E. was here alone. While I was reading about six o'clock I looked out the window and saw great clouds of smoke rolling from Eldridges' chimney. Very soon I heard them yell, fire. And when I saw Allise coming over here, I went down and told Mrs. E. Allie had come then so we all ran over there as fast as we could. A number of men and boys came to help. The chimney just burned out. Nothing was hurt but there surely would have been fire if they hadn't poured water down the flu." "Monday, April 4, 1898. It is now almost nine. I read some in my bible and read in the physiology and then meditated awhile on certain subjects. Today has been lovely again. I hope it is nice all week as we are going to clean house. The frogs are singing now. The new addition to the house is all finished. It makes the house bigger. Mrs. E. is playing and singing, 'When the Swallows Homeward Fly'. She plays very seldom. Well, our country seems to be on the verge of war. The papers have been full of it since the wreck of the Maine on March 2. This week will decide it. The United States government would settle it without war if Spain would give Cuba her freedom but Spain has refused to do so. The poor Cubans have suffered enough. If war does come, I am sure the U.S. would get the best of it and also secure Cuba her freedom. The good cause most always wins. I am learning or have almost learned 'Thanetopsis' by Bryant. Not all of it but the part that is in the literature. I learn all the pieces I take a fancy to and then repeat them to myself when I am washing & ironing and other times when I am in the mood. (several lines of German)" "Tuesday, April 5, 1898. It is now nine. I have been looking through some of my journals this evening. I was going to start a letter but didn't get started. We started to clean house but did very little as we could not get the beds out. We will start for sure tomorrow if it doesn't rain. A tramp came here this noon for something to eat. I hope they don't start to come. It has been cloudy but nice. (several lines of German)" "Wednesday, April 6, 1898. It is now almost eight o'clock. Mr. and Mrs. Eldridge have gone to Dickersons to play cards. May is now playing on the piano. I love to hear her play. Well, this morning the first thing I heard when I woke up was the rain. It just rained part of the fore noon and was very nice the afternoon. But it spoiled the day for cleaning house. This P.M. I went to the lecture. I got more good of it this time. This was Dr. Teel's last lecture. There were only give there to hear it. While going through town the minstrels were playing and just as I got to where they were, they started to march. And lo! and behold!, I had to go almost the whole length of town with them. They played the band and marched. They marched through the street. There were crowds of boys and men of the sidewalk. They were the ones I had to walk with. I was so afraid people would think I was following them (the minstrels) so I 'banished' my notebook (or rather carried it where it could be seen) so people would not think I was following the band. I got the good of the music anyway. I went to see Annie but only had half an hour to stay. I know Thanetopsis now but can't say it very fast yet. I learn pieces so I will have something to think of when I am alone." "Thursday, April 7. It is now after eight. This morning the wind woke me up. We started to clean house though. We got the bedrooms & parlor cleaned but the carpet will have to be put down yet in the parlor. Messer Eldridge & James whipped the carpets. It rained some today but by showers, so did not hinder our work. I haven't gotten a letter from Julia for quite a while so am anxiously looking for one. I hope when I am called they will give me three days of grace to make ready for my departure." "Friday, April 8, 1898. It is now after eight. I just came up. A man papered the dining room today so we couldn't finish the room. I cleaned two rooms upstairs. May & Mrs. Eldridge worked downstairs. This morning dawned very clear and nice but before noon a cold wind started to blow. It rained some this afternoon. The weather is very changeable in this country." "Sunday, April 10, 1898. It is now after nine. I have just gotten back from church. I went to the M.E. Church this morning. Rev. McD read for the morning reading the 118 Psalm and gave his sermon from the 5 chapter of I have forgotten which book. But is was very good. The singing was fine and the church was decorated very pretty. This afternoon I made up my mind that I would go to Millie's. We had dinner at four. May helped me wash the dishes. I started from here at five minutes after 5 o'clock. I took her Julia's letter. When I got there, Morris came to meet me. I saw Mrs. Clark too and talked to her a while. Millie said there were quite a number of people who came to town from Clearbrook every week. I thought that perhaps I could get to ride out with someone and visit at home for a few days. I expressed my thoughts to her and she said she would see some of the people from C--as they passed and ask them if I could ride and send me word by Arthur. Now I just wish I could go home for a few days as when I leave I will not get the chance. I got a letter from Julia yesterday evening. She passed her examinations and can stay. She is on night duty now. I dread when my time comes but perhaps it will not be as bad as I think. It has been quite nice today. Yesterday it rained all day but cleared off just at sunset." "Monday, April 11, 1898. It is now almost ten. I have just finished a letter to the folks. May and I are alone. Mr. and Mrs. E have gone to Dickerson's to play cards. This morning it was raining and I thought it would rain all day but about 10 o'clock it cleared off and was just fine. I had quite a big washing but it got dry. I will now have to go." "Wednesday, April 13, 1898. It is almost eight o'clock. May is playing some pretty pieces on the piano. Mr. and Mrs. E have gone to Purdy's to play cards. Last eve there was a card party here. We sat up until twelve and after we went to bed May nor I slept any. Or, very little after we got to bed. I suppose it was the coffee we drank. I felt quite sleepy a while this P.M. Messer Styatt & Learning were here for dinner. I didn't have to wait on the table and I was awful glad. I started to write to Julia last eve but didn't finish it so wrote the rest this morning. I sent her a five dollar bill in the letter. I went to the lecture this P.M. I started from here at one as I wanted to do some shopping. I tried to get some cloth like the sample Julia sent me, but could not. I tried at six stores. I stopped a little while at Annie's. Then I went back to the Labor Exchange to ask Mr. Pangborn when his people would be coming to town as I would like to ride to Clearbrook with them. He said they were in yesterday. He is going to telephone up when someone from C---comes in. I hope or wish that I could go tomorrow as I will have to come back Wednesday next if I go this week as Mrs. Eis going to have the card club here Thursday after tomorrow. I got myself a pair of slippers today for forty eight cents. While I was in the store who should come in but Mr. Fullingin (several lines in German). When I was almost home I saw Johnnie & Joe Cocren. Poor little boys. They were as ragged as can be. I am here alone now. May has gone over to Edens. I guess I will play awhile. When I was playing, I heard a knock at the door. It was Carrie. She stayed a little while. May is back now. It is almost ten." "Thursday, April 14, 1898. (many lines of German) May, Maud, Ollie & Nettie went on a fishing excursion to Whatcom Falls. It looks something like it will rain. I hope it will not rain as it will spoil their good time. Well, when they came home this eve they hadn't a fish but they had a good time." "Saturday, April 16, 1898. It is about half past seven. I have just put the finishing touches to my my to Mrs. Edwards. It rained. Started, I mean, late this afternoon but is not raining at present. I waited patiently all morning for a telephone from Mr. Pangborn or a note from Millie telling me to telephone to him and see as he might have forgotten. I didn't like to so May did. Mr. Lockheart answered the telephone and, oh, how disappointed I was when May said that he said a wagon left for Clearbrook this morning. You can't depend on anybody. I wanted to go so bad today so I could come back next Saturday but fate was against me. I suppose now I will not get to go. Mr. and Mrs. E are going to the card club this eve. I will go down and stay with May & write a letter to Mamie. It is raining again now. May and I sat up till almost twelve. I wrote to Mamie and then I went to the piano and played and sang." "Sunday, April 17, 1898. It is now after three. I am in our room. I went to church this morning. Mr. Brown talked on the subject of homeless children. Rev McD read the morning reading which was the twelfth chapter of John. He also led the prayer. Poor Mrs. McDermott looked so frail and worn. Mr. and Mrs. Dickerson & and Mr. and Mrs. E are now, while I am writing, watching the little ducks. Mrs. D has a camera with her and she has just take their picture. Mrs. E is going to try it now. We are not going to have dinner until five. May had dinner with Tessa and after they had it they went to the cemetery. Maud went, too. It is now after eight. We have all just come home at fifteen minutes of seven. I stopped playing & singing and went over to see if Carrie would go to church at Grandma's. May came to the door when she saw me and told me that Carrie was out riding. I stayed there a while and then went to Edens and I have just gotten back. Carrie had a buggy ride and I don't blame her for not coming home in time for church. I was disappointed though. I wish I could go alone. I just hate to be so dependent . Well, when the mail came this eve I got a letter from Julia. She is getting along just fine. I hope I succeed as well. I am so glad she likes it there. I mailed Mrs. Edwards & Mamie's letters this morning while on the way to church. My eyes hurt me now and this evening one of them got red. I don't see why they hurt. Olive Edens has the Measels they think. I saw her and I think she has them alright. I had a good time awhile this eve singing hymns. I just love them." "Monday, April 18, 1898. I have just finished reading a letter I got from home. It was very good. Mama wrote us a long German letter. This afternoon I went to Millie's. I left her reading Julia's letter. This morning Prof. White came here to ask Mrs. Eldridge if she would teach in Mr. Selby's place tomorrow. She is going. Mr. S. has to be at the trial. They are going to have it out in court. It is too bad. I hope I soon get a chance to go home as I may have to go to Seattle soon. I wish I could go tomorrow. I do not feel very well this evening. Most of the time when I start to eat my meals I get dizzy. I did tonight. Today has been lovely. I hope this weather lasts. Hadleys are here this eve. Came to play cards." "Friday, April 22, 1898. Since I wrote in here last, I have been transported home and now I will write for the time I haven't written. Well, Wednesday morning about eleven o'clock, while I was upstairs, I heard the phone ring. Mrs. E answered it, of course. It was Mr. Pangborn that telephoned to me saying that Mr. D. Pangborn was in town with his wagon and would leave at half past twelve. Mrs. E came to the stairs and told me that I could go home. I told her that I didn't like to leave her just when she needed me most. She said it was alright for me to go and have my visit. I gave in, of course. I had only an hour to get ready in so I had to get ready in a hurry. Mr. James got me a bundle of current branches. Mrs. Brand got in the car. We started to talk. She said that she didn't have a girl yet and if I could get her one. Well, when I got to the Labor Exchange, I had to wait an hour and a half. Mr. P had a big load of bricks and other things. Where the road turns for home who should be standing there watching for a wagon but Mrs. Carfee! She asked to ride so Mr. P stopped for her to get in. Not very far on, another woman, Mrs. Prouty, wanted to ride so she got in. The wagon was pretty well loaded. We three walked a little while because we wanted to. Mrs. Prouty got off at Ten Mile. We got to Lynden some after six. Mrs. Carfee got off there. Mr. P thought it would be later when we got to Lynden but as it was so early, he thought we could get home alright. So we went on. We got to the mill at half past seven. There was a man there and he helped Mr. P unload the brick. While they were unloading, I went and stood by the nice big fire that was there. Got warm and watched the stars. We got home at a little after eight. Miss Pangborn got our supper. Fred Boyer was there. He had a phonograph and so gave us some songs. In the morning I started for home after nine. Mr. P went with me to the trail. I got all wet. It started to rain before I started so the bushes were all wet. So, of course, I got good and wet. When I got home Mama saw me first. They were surprized, of course. Margie Pangborn has the measles. I slept in the same bed with her. I hope I don't get them as I might be called to Seattle any time. Today or this morning Celia and I got ready to go to Clearbrook and visit some of the people. We first went to Hagins. There of them, N, C, E have the measles. We stayed awhile and then went to the store. I think I will have to stop here and go to bed. Paul won't give us any rest. I'll go on with the rest tomorrow." "Saturday, April 23, 1898. It is now a little after eight. I will now finish writing. I am sitting by the front window. Celia is playing on her accordion now. Well, from the store we went to Hintons to take Laura a few things. She looks real bad. She has the consumption. Maud was down with the measles. We only stayed a Little while and then went to Mindy's. We stayed there until three o'clock then went to the Morris'. Mindy went with us. We stayed until half past four. Celia and I were real tired when we got home. We walked very slow all the way. I did not get to see. It rained some while we were going from the store to Hintons. Today has been nice all day. I found lots of four leaf clovers and I found a seven leaf clover also. It was the second one I have ever found. (several lines of German) This evening Papa got a letter from Cousin Carl. I wish we could write German, too. Friday we got a letter from Pauline. It took 4 cents to send Julia's letter. War with Spain has just started." "Sunday, April 24, 1898. It is now toward evening but light yet. Celia is playing on the organ. It has been a very sultry day. Quite warm. Celia and I went to church. (many lines of German) There were quite a number at church. I was in the bible class. Mr. Pangborn is a very good teacher. The preacher, Mr. Buck, had a very good sermon and I told him so, too. (many lines of German) It is getting dark so I'll stop and sing awhile. I went to see my tree this evening." "Monday, April 25, 1898. It has rained all day. The sun is shining some now. I wrote my part of Pauline's letter this P.M. (German words) My eyes feel better now. I am now going to play hymns." "Wednesday, April 27, 1898. I am again by the front window writing. Celia is playing. Today the weather has been nice. Yesterday it rained some in the A.M. Yesterday Celia and I went to Clearbrook. We visited at Lotties & Elders. Then we went to see Mrs. Heathers. She isn't able to walk very much yet. It is too bad. From there we went to Pangborn's. We stayed there until the cow that owns a lamb came home. We saw the lamb suck the cow. That would be quite a shot for a Kodak. We sent a letter to Pa yesterday. My journal came yesterday. Miss Pangborn gave me some forget-me-not plants. I planted them today. Margie is able to be around now. Mr. P. isn't going to Whatcom until next week. So I will have a longer visit than I thought. The boys sheared the sheep." "Thursday, April 28, 1898. It is now about dusk. Celia is reading. I have been reading in my journal. Mama had the sick headache. She has been in bed since three o'clock. It worrys me that she has the headaches so much. It has been nice today. A little while it blew cold though. This morning, when I was getting a pail of water, who should come along on a horseback but George and Precon. I talked to them a little. (some German words)" "April 30, 1898. Saturday. It is now half past eight by our clock but it is too fast. I am sitting in the old rocking chair by the window which fronts the road here in the kitchen. Papa & Mama are in the room, too. The boys are at the barn and Celia, poor girl!, is in bed. She has the measles. We noticed it last night. The boys are deathly afraid that they will get the measles. They were talking about it all the time (some more German). Al Morris was here this fore noon. He came with a note from Uncle Henry and a pair of his father's shoes. He is over the measles. It has been a lovely day. I swept and dusted the house. Mama helped me with the kitchen. Celia couldn't help us. I hope she doesn't have it hard and I hope I don't get them. Yesterday we went to Clearbrook. We did our trading and ten went up to Hagins for a while. We got to ride as far as the Kings with Perry Heathers. Mrs. Hammell rode too. She told us that Mrs. Tilton is very sick yet and they have no one to help sit up at night. Mrs. H. stayed there Thursday night but she could not stay longer as her little son, Harry, has the measles and she had to go home. I wish I could go and help the Tiltons but I do not know whether I can go or not. I do not feel well myself. Perhaps I'll be better tomorrow. This afternoon I took a roam in the woods. I always enjoy it. I wrote on a number of fungus and gathered some cedar & ferns (some German lines). It is getting dark so I'll skip writing and go to bed. The trees are just lovely and so is the grass. If people were as nice as nature but alas." "May 7, 1898. Celia's birthday. It is now half past seven. I am writing this in the kitchen. Fred is sitting by a window opposite me. His eyes are beginning to hurt him so perhaps he is getting the measles. Celia's face is all covered with red spots now. Mr. Velanta was here this morning and he told us that Mrs. Tilton is dead. It is too bad. It will be so hard for them all. I am very sorry that I could not go to help them but now it is too late. I hope they come and tell us when the funeral will be. I think it does one good to go to a funeral once in a while. It makes one think. I always go when I can. Such is life. One never knows when their time will come to die and all should be prepared but the majority are not ready. It has been quite warm today. Almost too warm. Everything is so lovely outside. The forget-me-nots that Miss Pangborn gave me is starting to bloom. I will now go out and water a few plants. Mama is out with the bucket now. I read some in Lori's book, 'The Royal Path of Life.' It is just fine. I wish I had one like it. I'll go now sure." "May 2, Monday, 1898. It is now after eight by our time. This fore noon Al came up for the shoes. He told us that Mrs Tilton would be buried at two o'clock. I asked him if he would wait until after dinner then I would go with him. So he waited. He went as far as Smith's and then he went Home and I went to the store. The door was locked and I had to wait a while out on the porch. While I was standing there Mr. Tilton came past. I asked him how Bertha was but said no word of consolation as I knew not what to say. I went to Lottie's and stayed there until we went. Mrs. White went came there too. I got acquainted with Mrs. Bryon. Quite a crowd out. The songs were, 'Near My God to Thee; Blest Be The Tie That Binds; Take Me As I Am.' The text was taken from the 24th Chapter of Ecleasties, the 18th verse. Poor little Olie took it hard. So many people cried too when they saw how hard Olie took it. Poor Bertha is sick in bed with the measles and a dreadful cough so she could not be at the funeral. I wanted to go to see her but didn't have enough time. I went to see Oliver's grave. The rose bushes and other things we CONTINUED UNDER CELIA JACOBS' NOTES

Note Number

Note Text

[Ehlers Family History.FBK.FBK.FBK.FBK.FTW]

Following are a series of letters by Anna. She also was the keeper of a diary which was dated 1898-99. The diary tells of her life working and living with the Eldridge family in Bellingham. It was a prominent family. Later she and her sister(s) started a boarding house on the campus near Edens Hall. Many faculty and staff are mentioned as well as her feelings about events, including the Spanish-American War. Of particular interest was the beginnings of what is now Western Washington University. It also gives an excellent view of life in the Lynden and Clearbrook area in pioneer Washington Territory. Any notes from the diary that could not fit here are continued under her sister, Pauline's, note section.

1. Excerpts of a letter to Laura Ehlers Hunter, December 2, 1934. Raymond, Wa.
"Life goes on for us in the same merry way and we have nothing to complain of but much to be thankful for...The folks hope to spend Christmas together. Wouldn't it be fine if the Ehlers and Jacobs tribe, root and branch, could all get together once and spend Christmas together. I'm sure I've never seen Margaret. I saw Jim's children the last time I was was at Mommie's. They all looked good to me and I hope they all have high ideals and love the beautiful and good things of life."

2. Excerpts of a letter to Laura and Mindy (Nancy Dobbs Ehlers). December 19, 1938. Raymond, Wa.
"I was over to Celia's and stayed nine days. Ray and Dorothy came from California on a visit and they wanted me to go with them so I did. Celia has a real comfortable home. Pauline stayed at Celia's while we were there as the house where she lives was too cold for the babies. She rode on the school bus. She had four days of vacation and had to go back to teaching Monday after Thanksgiving. I went with her to her school and we stayed there two days and then went back to Celia's. Pauline's school is eight miles from where Celia lives. She has three pupils. She lives in the school house. It has two rooms. A girl stays with her at nights. She is quite well so far this fall and content because she has a school."
"Dorothy & Ray are back in California. Had to be there by the 14th as Ray had to go back to work. Dorothy's boys are real cute. The baby is a regular little angel, always smiling and seldom cried. They both had colds while at Celia's and worried us greatly. Dorothy is happy and all wrapped up in her husband and boys and she likes all his folks."
"I kept well and able to do a lot of digging to grow flowers. I sold all I had in spite of dull times. There was so much labor trouble here most of the year but now it seems settled and they say all mills and camps will be running by February. I am getting on the same as ever. Have the same renters and with my rent and flower sales I get on alright. The Lord takes care of me."

3. Excerpts of a letter to Laura dated October 24, 1948 from Lynden, Wa.
"It is very kind of you to want to send our relatives something. They need milk fat and coffee. They need most everything. I sent a variety of things but I can't get whole dried milk here. One can send more dried things as they are lighter so more can be sent....It is pitiful how people are suffering in Europe and it is our duty to help them what we can. Bill, Frances, Walter & Vera are back from their hunting trip so they have had their vacation. We expect to go to Lynden with Frances tomorrow. Last Sunday Celia, Harry & Wayne came."
"Well, we will soon be voting. May the Lord guide our pens that we vote for honest upright God fearing men. I believe in the Townsend Plan and so will vote for those in my district who are for it. These are for it: H. Jones, H.M. Jackson, Thor C. Tollefson but I won't vote for Vic Meyers nor for Walgren but for Langley, Peterson Velleca & Hawley as someone I trust said they are o.k. Most people want good men in office but don't know who they are. Do you know some good ones?"

4. Excerpts of a letter to Laura & G.G. from Anne and Mamie dated January 28, 1960 from Lynden.
"This morning who should come by but Mary. She brought lunch or dinner...She is still very nervous. I know how she suffers as I have been thru it...I talked with Adele over the phone this morning and she said she felt fine and her stomach is ok now. She did look bad for awhile. Jim came to see us one day while Adele was on her trip. Isabelle brought him up."
"...Mamie is still the same. She can't stand up and may never walk again. I could not get her in a wheelchair as she can't stand alone and I don't dare lift her. She is comfortable in bed and has no pain. I prop her up in bed when she eats and sometimes put her feet on the floor....If Mamie died I would not stay here alone."

DIARY---March 30, 1898 to December 20, 1899:
"March 30, 1898, Wednesday. I haven't my other diary quite full yet but as the days are marked in it it leaves only a small space to write in so I will write in this one. I must write my surprize first. It was this: I got three letters all at once this evening. One from home, one from Pauline and one from Mr. C. Werner. I knew who they were from before I opened them. Inside of the home letter was one from Mrs. Edwards. I thought she had forgotten me. There were twenty eight pages with all the letters. Mama wrote Julia & I a German letter. I could read it all. Celia said that (St. J.) came home for a visit. I wish I could have seen him, as I haven't seen him since the evening before I went to Blue Canyon. Mr. W. writes that he is well pleased there. Today has been lovely, nice and still and warm. As I had to got to the the lecture this afternoon, and as Nannie was over at Eden's, I thought I would tell Maud, as she went home for lunch, to ask N. if she would like to go with me. When Maud came past again she told me that Nannie would come so I waited for her and we went together. She was going to visit a friend, so as I had time before the lecture, I went with her there. We arranged before I left that we would go to James St. tomorrow but just at supper she telephoned up and said that she had changed her mind so we won't go. The lecture was over the "Fair". I did not get very much good of it some way. Mrs. E. gave me a bottle of ink so now I don't have to buy any."
"Friday, April 1--Fools Day. It is now about nine o'clock. I have been reading my letters over again. I have not started to answer them yet. It rained some this fore noon but was nice this afternoon. Yesterday I went on to Nannie's and we were going to James St. but she felt too bad so I spent the afternoon there at Mr. Coopers. Before I left Nannie started to feel very bad so she thought she had better go to Edens to get her things ready and go home. So she came with me when I left. We took the car as she wasn't able to walk very far and to where we were going was quite a ways. This morning I was over to see her. She felt much better. She took the boat for home this evening. This afternoon I went down with her to help her get her belongings. This evening, when I told her good bye, it made me feel lonesome. Ed carried her valise for her. Bob April Fooled me by telling me I had dropped my handkerchief. I have started to make myself a waist."
"Saturday, April 2, 1898. It is now about nine o'clock. May and I are her alone. She is writing in her diary now too. Mr. Eldridge is in Seattle. He went on the two o'clock train today. Mrs. E. and Tessa went to the card club. It has been a lovely day and now it is lovely outdoors as the moon is shining so bright and it is so nice and still. This afternoon I thought I would go to see Millie so I went (several lines of German) I also saw Josie. She says they are all well. She isn't as fat now as she was. I went to Millie's by way of the P.O. I thought perhaps there would be a letter for me. The office was not open. I got the children some bananas. Millie was surprized to see me. I had a very good visit. (several lines of German)"
"Sunday, April 3, 1898. It now half past five. I am in our room. After I got through with my work, I went out and looked at the flowers awhile. It is lovely out now. It is real still and the sun shines just warm enough. I went to church this morning and hope I can go tonight. His text was taken from the thirty second verse of the 12th chapter of St. John. The morning reading was the thirty third chapter of Ezekil. A man by the name of Mr. Williams joined the church this morning. He had nothing to do but to say yes to the questions. I hope I can stay a month yet, but I may have to go any time. It is now almost eight. I have just gotten back from Edens. I went to see if Carrie was going to church but she was out bicycle riding and didn't come Home in time. I stayed awhile and then came home as Mrs. E. was here alone. While I was reading about six o'clock I looked out the window and saw great clouds of smoke rolling from Eldridges' chimney. Very soon I heard them yell, fire. And when I saw Allise coming over here, I went down and told Mrs. E. Allie had come then so we all ran over there as fast as we could. A number of men and boys came to help. The chimney just burned out. Nothing was hurt but there surely would have been fire if they hadn't poured water down the flu."
"Monday, April 4, 1898. It is now almost nine. I read some in my bible and read in the physiology and then meditated awhile on certain subjects. Today has been lovely again. I hope it is nice all week as we are going to clean house. The frogs are singing now. The new addition to the house is all finished. It makes the house bigger. Mrs. E. is playing and singing, 'When the Swallows Homeward Fly'. She plays very seldom. Well, our country seems to be on the verge of war. The papers have been full of it since the wreck of the Maine on March 2. This week will decide it. The United States government would settle it without war if Spain would give Cuba her freedom but Spain has refused to do so. The poor Cubans have suffered enough. If war does come, I am sure the U.S. would get the best of it and also secure Cuba her freedom. The good cause most always wins. I am learning or have almost learned 'Thanetopsis' by Bryant. Not all of it but the part that is in the literature. I learn all the pieces I take a fancy to and then repeat them to myself when I am washing & ironing and other times when I am in the mood. (several lines of German)"
"Tuesday, April 5, 1898. It is now nine. I have been looking through some of my journals this evening. I was going to start a letter but didn't get started. We started to clean house but did very little as we could not get the beds out. We will start for sure tomorrow if it doesn't rain. A tramp came here this noon for something to eat. I hope they don't start to come. It has been cloudy but nice. (several lines of German)"
"Wednesday, April 6, 1898. It is now almost eight o'clock. Mr. and Mrs. Eldridge have gone to Dickersons to play cards. May is now playing on the piano. I love to hear her play. Well, this morning the first thing I heard when I woke up was the rain. It just rained part of the fore noon and was very nice the afternoon. But it spoiled the day for cleaning house. This P.M. I went to the lecture. I got more good of it this time. This was Dr. Teel's last lecture. There were only give there to hear it. While going through town the minstrels were playing and just as I got to where they were, they started to march. And lo! and behold!, I had to go almost the whole length of town with them. They played the band and marched. They marched through the street. There were crowds of boys and men of the sidewalk. They were the ones I had to walk with. I was so afraid people would think I was following them (the minstrels) so I 'banished' my notebook (or rather carried it where it could be seen) so people would not think I was following the band. I got the good of the music anyway. I went to see Annie but only had half an hour to stay. I know Thanetopsis now but can't say it very fast yet. I learn pieces so I will have something to think of when I am alone."
"Thursday, April 7. It is now after eight. This morning the wind woke me up. We started to clean house though. We got the bedrooms & parlor cleaned but the carpet will have to be put down yet in the parlor. Messer Eldridge & James whipped the carpets. It rained some today but by showers, so did not hinder our work. I haven't gotten a letter from Julia for quite a while so am anxiously looking for one. I hope when I am called they will give me three days of grace to make ready for my departure."
"Friday, April 8, 1898. It is now after eight. I just came up. A man papered the dining room today so we couldn't finish the room. I cleaned two rooms upstairs. May & Mrs. Eldridge worked downstairs. This morning dawned very clear and nice but before noon a cold wind started to blow. It rained some this afternoon. The weather is very changeable in this country."
"Sunday, April 10, 1898. It is now after nine. I have just gotten back from church. I went to the M.E. Church this morning. Rev. McD read for the morning reading the 118 Psalm and gave his sermon from the 5 chapter of I have forgotten which book. But is was very good. The singing was fine and the church was decorated very pretty. This afternoon I made up my mind that I would go to Millie's. We had dinner at four. May helped me wash the dishes. I started from here at five minutes after 5 o'clock. I took her Julia's letter. When I got there, Morris came to meet me. I saw Mrs. Clark too and talked to her a while. Millie said there were quite a number of people who came to town from Clearbrook every week. I thought that perhaps I could get to ride out with someone and visit at home for a few days. I expressed my thoughts to her and she said she would see some of the people from C--as they passed and ask them if I could ride and send me word by Arthur. Now I just wish I could go home for a few days as when I leave I will not get the chance. I got a letter from Julia yesterday evening. She passed her examinations and can stay. She is on night duty now. I dread when my time comes but perhaps it will not be as bad as I think. It has been quite nice today. Yesterday it rained all day but cleared off just at sunset."
"Monday, April 11, 1898. It is now almost ten. I have just finished a letter to the folks. May and I are alone. Mr. and Mrs. E have gone to Dickerson's to play cards. This morning it was raining and I thought it would rain all day but about 10 o'clock it cleared off and was just fine. I had quite a big washing but it got dry. I will now have to go."
"Wednesday, April 13, 1898. It is almost eight o'clock. May is playing some pretty pieces on the piano. Mr. and Mrs. E have gone to Purdy's to play cards. Last eve there was a card party here. We sat up until twelve and after we went to bed May nor I slept any. Or, very little after we got to bed. I suppose it was the coffee we drank. I felt quite sleepy a while this P.M. Messer Styatt & Learning were here for dinner. I didn't have to wait on the table and I was awful glad. I started to write to Julia last eve but didn't finish it so wrote the rest this morning. I sent her a five dollar bill in the letter. I went to the lecture this P.M. I started from here at one as I wanted to do some shopping. I tried to get some cloth like the sample Julia sent me, but could not. I tried at six stores. I stopped a little while at Annie's. Then I went back to the Labor Exchange to ask Mr. Pangborn when his people would be coming to town as I would like to ride to Clearbrook with them. He said they were in yesterday. He is going to telephone up when someone from C---comes in. I hope or wish that I could go tomorrow as I will have to come back Wednesday next if I go this week as Mrs. Eis going to have the card club here Thursday after tomorrow. I got myself a pair of slippers today for forty eight cents. While I was in the store who should come in but Mr. Fullingin (several lines in German). When I was almost home I saw Johnnie & Joe Cocren. Poor little boys. They were as ragged as can be. I am here alone now. May has gone over to Edens. I guess I will play awhile. When I was playing, I heard a knock at the door. It was Carrie. She stayed a little while. May is back now. It is almost ten."
"Thursday, April 14, 1898. (many lines of German) May, Maud, Ollie & Nettie went on a fishing excursion to Whatcom Falls. It looks something like it will rain. I hope it will not rain as it will spoil their good time. Well, when they came home this eve they hadn't a fish but they had a good time."
"Saturday, April 16, 1898. It is about half past seven. I have just put the finishing touches to my my to Mrs. Edwards. It rained. Started, I mean, late this afternoon but is not raining at present. I waited patiently all morning for a telephone from Mr. Pangborn or a note from Millie telling me to telephone to him and see as he might have forgotten. I didn't like to so May did. Mr. Lockheart answered the telephone and, oh, how disappointed I was when May said that he said a wagon left for Clearbrook this morning. You can't depend on anybody. I wanted to go so bad today so I could come back next Saturday but fate was against me. I suppose now I will not get to go. Mr. and Mrs. E are going to the card club this eve. I will go down and stay with May & write a letter to Mamie. It is raining again now. May and I sat up till almost twelve. I wrote to Mamie and then I went to the piano and played and sang."
"Sunday, April 17, 1898. It is now after three. I am in our room. I went to church this morning. Mr. Brown talked on the subject of homeless children. Rev McD read the morning reading which was the twelfth chapter of John. He also led the prayer. Poor Mrs. McDermott looked so frail and worn. Mr. and Mrs. Dickerson & and Mr. and Mrs. E are now, while I am writing, watching the little ducks. Mrs. D has a camera with her and she has just take their picture. Mrs. E is going to try it now. We are not going to have dinner until five. May had dinner with Tessa and after they had it they went to the cemetery. Maud went, too. It is now after eight. We have all just come home at fifteen minutes of seven. I stopped playing & singing and went over to see if Carrie would go to church at Grandma's. May came to the door when she saw me and told me that Carrie was out riding. I stayed there a while and then went to Edens and I have just gotten back. Carrie had a buggy ride and I don't blame her for not coming home in time for church. I was disappointed though. I wish I could go alone. I just hate to be so dependent . Well, when the mail came this eve I got a letter from Julia. She is getting along just fine. I hope I succeed as well. I am so glad she likes it there. I mailed Mrs. Edwards & Mamie's letters this morning while on the way to church. My eyes hurt me now and this evening one of them got red. I don't see why they hurt. Olive Edens has the Measels they think. I saw her and I think she has them alright. I had a good time awhile this eve singing hymns. I just love them."
"Monday, April 18, 1898. I have just finished reading a letter I got from home. It was very good. Mama wrote us a long German letter. This afternoon I went to Millie's. I left her reading Julia's letter. This morning Prof. White came here to ask Mrs. Eldridge if she would teach in Mr. Selby's place tomorrow. She is going. Mr. S. has to be at the trial. They are going to have it out in court. It is too bad. I hope I soon get a chance to go home as I may have to go to Seattle soon. I wish I could go tomorrow. I do not feel very well this evening. Most of the time when I start to eat my meals I get dizzy. I did tonight. Today has been lovely. I hope this weather lasts. Hadleys are here this eve. Came to play cards."
"Friday, April 22, 1898. Since I wrote in here last, I have been transported home and now I will write for the time I haven't written. Well, Wednesday morning about eleven o'clock, while I was upstairs, I heard the phone ring. Mrs. E answered it, of course. It was Mr. Pangborn that telephoned to me saying that Mr. D. Pangborn was in town with his wagon and would leave at half past twelve. Mrs. E came to the stairs and told me that I could go home. I told her that I didn't like to leave her just when she needed me most. She said it was alright for me to go and have my visit. I gave in, of course. I had only an hour to get ready in so I had to get ready in a hurry. Mr. James got me a bundle of current branches. Mrs. Brand got in the car. We started to talk. She said that she didn't have a girl yet and if I could get her one. Well, when I got to the Labor Exchange, I had to wait an hour and a half. Mr. P had a big load of bricks and other things. Where the road turns for home who should be standing there watching for a wagon but Mrs. Carfee! She asked to ride so Mr. P stopped for her to get in. Not very far on, another woman, Mrs. Prouty, wanted to ride so she got in. The wagon was pretty well loaded. We three walked a little while because we wanted to. Mrs. Prouty got off at Ten Mile. We got to Lynden some after six. Mrs. Carfee got off there. Mr. P thought it would be later when we got to Lynden but as it was so early, he thought we could get home alright. So we went on. We got to the mill at half past seven. There was a man there and he helped Mr. P unload the brick. While they were unloading, I went and stood by the nice big fire that was there. Got warm and watched the stars. We got home at a little after eight. Miss Pangborn got our supper. Fred Boyer was there. He had a phonograph and so gave us some songs. In the morning I started for home after nine. Mr. P went with me to the trail. I got all wet. It started to rain before I started so the bushes were all wet. So, of course, I got good and wet. When I got home Mama saw me first. They were surprized, of course. Margie Pangborn has the measles. I slept in the same bed with her. I hope I don't get them as I might be called to Seattle any time. Today or this morning Celia and I got ready to go to Clearbrook and visit some of the people. We first went to Hagins. There of them, N, C, E have the measles. We stayed awhile and then went to the store. I think I will have to stop here and go to bed. Paul won't give us any rest. I'll go on with the rest tomorrow."
"Saturday, April 23, 1898. It is now a little after eight. I will now finish writing. I am sitting by the front window. Celia is playing on her accordion now. Well, from the store we went to Hintons to take Laura a few things. She looks real bad. She has the consumption. Maud was down with the measles. We only stayed a Little while and then went to Mindy's. We stayed there until three o'clock then went to the Morris'. Mindy went with us. We stayed until half past four. Celia and I were real tired when we got home. We walked very slow all the way. I did not get to see. It rained some while we were going from the store to Hintons. Today has been nice all day. I found lots of four leaf clovers and I found a seven leaf clover also. It was the second one I have ever found. (several lines of German) This evening Papa got a letter from Cousin Carl. I wish we could write German, too. Friday we got a letter from Pauline. It took 4 cents to send Julia's letter. War with Spain has just started."
"Sunday, April 24, 1898. It is now toward evening but light yet. Celia is playing on the organ. It has been a very sultry day. Quite warm. Celia and I went to church. (many lines of German) There were quite a number at church. I was in the bible class. Mr. Pangborn is a very good teacher. The preacher, Mr. Buck, had a very good sermon and I told him so, too. (many lines of German) It is getting dark so I'll stop and sing awhile. I went to see my tree this evening."
"Monday, April 25, 1898. It has rained all day. The sun is shining some now. I wrote my part of Pauline's letter this P.M. (German words) My eyes feel better now. I am now going to play hymns."
"Wednesday, April 27, 1898. I am again by the front window writing. Celia is playing. Today the weather has been nice. Yesterday it rained some in the A.M. Yesterday Celia and I went to Clearbrook. We visited at Lotties & Elders. Then we went to see Mrs. Heathers. She isn't able to walk very much yet. It is too bad. From there we went to Pangborn's. We stayed there until the cow that owns a lamb came home. We saw the lamb suck the cow. That would be quite a shot for a Kodak. We sent a letter to Pa yesterday. My journal came yesterday. Miss Pangborn gave me some forget-me-not plants. I planted them today. Margie is able to be around now. Mr. P. isn't going to Whatcom until next week. So I will have a longer visit than I thought. The boys sheared the sheep."
"Thursday, April 28, 1898. It is now about dusk. Celia is reading. I have been reading in my journal. Mama had the sick headache. She has been in bed since three o'clock. It worrys me that she has the headaches so much. It has been nice today. A little while it blew cold though. This morning, when I was getting a pail of water, who should come along on a horseback but George and Precon. I talked to them a little. (some German words)"
"April 30, 1898. Saturday. It is now half past eight by our clock but it is too fast. I am sitting in the old rocking chair by the window which fronts the road here in the kitchen. Papa & Mama are in the room, too. The boys are at the barn and Celia, poor girl!, is in bed. She has the measles. We noticed it last night. The boys are deathly afraid that they will get the measles. They were talking about it all the time (some more German). Al Morris was here this fore noon. He came with a note from Uncle Henry and a pair of his father's shoes. He is over the measles. It has been a lovely day. I swept and dusted the house. Mama helped me with the kitchen. Celia couldn't help us. I hope she doesn't have it hard and I hope I don't get them. Yesterday we went to Clearbrook. We did our trading and ten went up to Hagins for a while. We got to ride as far as the Kings with Perry Heathers. Mrs. Hammell rode too. She told us that Mrs. Tilton is very sick yet and they have no one to help sit up at night. Mrs. H. stayed there Thursday night but she could not stay longer as her little son, Harry, has the measles and she had to go home. I wish I could go and help the Tiltons but I do not know whether I can go or not. I do not feel well myself. Perhaps I'll be better tomorrow. This afternoon I took a roam in the woods. I always enjoy it. I wrote on a number of fungus and gathered some cedar & ferns (some German lines). It is getting dark so I'll skip writing and go to bed. The trees are just lovely and so is the grass. If people were as nice as nature but alas."
"May 7, 1898. Celia's birthday. It is now half past seven. I am writing this in the kitchen. Fred is sitting by a window opposite me. His eyes are beginning to hurt him so perhaps he is getting the measles. Celia's face is all covered with red spots now. Mr. Velanta was here this morning and he told us that Mrs. Tilton is dead. It is too bad. It will be so hard for them all. I am very sorry that I could not go to help them but now it is too late. I hope they come and tell us when the funeral will be. I think it does one good to go to a funeral once in a while. It makes one think. I always go when I can. Such is life. One never knows when their time will come to die and all should be prepared but the majority are not ready. It has been quite warm today. Almost too warm. Everything is so lovely outside. The forget-me-nots that Miss Pangborn gave me is starting to bloom. I will now go out and water a few plants. Mama is out with the bucket now. I read some in Lori's book, 'The Royal Path of Life.' It is just fine. I wish I had one like it. I'll go now sure."
"May 2, Monday, 1898. It is now after eight by our time. This fore noon Al came up for the shoes. He told us that Mrs Tilton would be buried at two o'clock. I asked him if he would wait until after dinner then I would go with him. So he waited. He went as far as Smith's and then he went Home and I went to the store. The door was locked and I had to wait a while out on the porch. While I was standing there Mr. Tilton came past. I asked him how Bertha was but said no word of consolation as I knew not what to say. I went to Lottie's and stayed there until we went. Mrs. White went came there too. I got acquainted with Mrs. Bryon. Quite a crowd out. The songs were, 'Near My God to Thee; Blest Be The Tie That Binds; Take Me As I Am.' The text was taken from the 24th Chapter of Ecleasties, the 18th verse. Poor little Olie took it hard. So many people cried too when they saw how hard Olie took it. Poor Bertha is sick in bed with the measles and a dreadful cough so she could not be at the funeral. I wanted to go to see her but didn't have enough time. I went to see Oliver's grave. The rose bushes and other things we CONTINUED UNDER CELIA JACOBS' NOTES

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S.E. Doverspike