Diaries of Verna Vay (Rogers) Henry

COLLEGE NOTEBOOK. Verna Rogers. BHS 1917 & 1918. My Diary.

Nov 28, 1917, Wed. Today was our last day in school for this week. Everyone is looking forward to a glorious Thanksgiving and most of all to a big game with Linton. We are doing quite a lot of yelling and most of us are real enthusiastic. My! I've had to work so hard all week I've scarcely had time to breathe. My being out of school has thrown me so much outside work to do all at once. Today after school we all lined up and had a snake dance on the way up town. We certainly must have looked comical marching along through the mud and rain. I caught myself frowning at how disagreeable it was to be marching in such weather, when the thought struck me of our unselfish soldiers and of all they are compelled to endure. Then I felt ashamed that I should complain of my lot which was only a trifle compared to any of their hardships. Tonight I read fifty pages in "Adam Beade."

Nov. 29, 1917, Thurs. Hurrah! This is Thanksgiving Day! But dear me, it is raining and I fear it will spoil the Linton game. This morning I worked hard cleaning the house and was only beginning to clean up myself when I heard a familiar laugh as someone opened the living room door and greatly to my surprise, I found it was GLADYS [ROGERS, her sister], who thought to give us a surprise by spending her vacation at home. She is teaching the intermediate grades at Fair Oaks, Indiana. Fair Oaks is about forty miles from Chicago and only about twenty-three miles from the Michigan border. She had intended to spend her vacation in Chicago and not come home until Christmas. We were all very glad she came and had a nice Thanksgiving dinner together. When I found I could not go to the game I was very much disappointed. Later this evening I heard the score was 25 to 13 in Linton's favor. That certainly disappointed all of us but any way, our boys played a good game! Tonight I wrote a letter to my friend at Jasonville, MR. BROWNE - the fellow who owns the Interstate. Later I read in "Adam Beade." I think it is a very interesting book so far as I have read but outside work takes up nearly all my time at home and causes me to neglect my other studies. So much of my time is spent on the road driving to and fro from school.

Nov. 29, 1917, Fri. Here it is the last day of November and cold weather has not set in yet but only think of the cold wintry days yet to come. It hardly seems possible that Christmas is but little over three weeks off. Time will fly fast now. GLADYS [ROGERS] has gone to visit our home school today and study MISS IVA DUKE's method of teaching. The Jasper County Supt. Reported that GLADYS was doing fine work and she simply loves teaching. The country, the people, and the school system of northern Indiana are entirely different from that of southern Indiana. At Fair Oaks there are two other grade teachers besides GLADYS. One is a lady whom we went to school to when we were small. There the High School and grade teachers board at a hotel and have some very jolly times together. The grade teachers there are included in all the High School functions. Sister [GLADYS] thinks the school system there is so far in advance from anything she has ever known here that, after teaching there once, youd never come back here to teach in the grades again. I had intended to visit at Plummer over Sunday but [GLADYS] coming home prevents that so guess I'll wait until another time. Yesterday made me think of last Thanksgiving and recall all the changes which have taken place. I am going to Prayer Meeting tonight.

Sat. Dec 1, 1917. Today is a very busy time with the usual Saturday's work and company expected besides. Tonight we are planning a surprise party for GLADYS because she leaves for Indianapolis early tomorrow morning.

Sun. Dec 2, 1917. GRACE, EVA and VENUS stayed all night with me last night after the party. There were thirty-six here at the party and it certainly was a great surprise to sis. MARY and BOB came by and took me to church. The crowd met there and came home with me and she didn't know they were here until they had followed her through the house to the kitchen. It was a beautiful moonlight night and not too cold for some out of door games. Part of the time we spent playing games in the house and eating popcorn balls and apples. Then we drew for partners and pulled taffy. Such a laughing jolly bunch that it does one good to associate with! All the guests said they didn't know when they had enjoyed a party so. Even the minister, who happened to be at our house, took part in the games and seemed to be having a good time. It was late when the crowd dispersed but a few of our special friends remained for a while afterwards. Women like we five girls sit up for a long time after everyone had gone, to talk over the events of the evening until it was near two o'clock when we finally went to sleep. I can clearly remember that it didn't seem long until morning and we all had that not easily to be forgotten feeling of "the morning after the night before." We had a dreadful time getting GLADYS off to the eight o'clock train and were so excited that everyone forgot to put the chicken on the table until after breakfast had began. We all went to church this a.m. and found there were about fifteen others there who sat with one eye open, because they had attended a party the night before!

Mon. Dec 3, 1917. I've been sleepy all day but haven't seen much chance for sleep. My, but it seems strange to be back at school after our vacation. MISS BAILEY said she had such a good vacation she didn't want to come back. It seemed like starting in all over again to me. Yesterday we had the best time. The folks went down to DEE's (my sister) for dinner and left we girls and BOB by ourselves. FRANK MILLER came home with BOB from church so we four girls had some fun getting dinner for them. After dinner, BILL and FRANK W. came out in FRANK's flivver and took we girls down to GRACE's. HARVEY met us there in his flivver and all of us drove down to VENUS's home at PLUMMER. After dark, ELZA, GERALD and FLOYDs. drove over from WORTHINGTON and we had a very pleasant evening together. I find out that my new friend, FLOYD, is Senior President at the W.H.S. He is quite a nice young man and a good football player. Tonight I must read on "Adam Beade."

Tues. Dec 4, 1917. I went to school today and nothing very exciting happened. At noon I tried to write to FLOYD but was not very successful because the girls were whistling, "For Me and My Gal," and "Back Home Again In Indiana." Tonight I have been reading on my outside work. Got a card from sis today that she had arrived in Fair Oaks ok.

Sat. Dec. 8, 1917. I have been very busy all day. I ironed all morning and cleaned up the house this afternoon. Saturday is always my busy day. Received a letter from BILL HENRY that I would have company tonight but this weather will probably prevent that. I am not going to church because it is dreadful cold and [illegible]. Nothing much ever happens on Saturday out here.

Wed. Dec 5, 1917. Yesterday morning we took up chorus time to cast votes concerning the pie supper and taffy pulling to be given at the Domestic Science Hall Thurs. nite. We voted on the prettiest girl, most handsome boy and the most lovesick couple. We received some very promising candidates for the election. To the great amusement of the school, MATHELE TALBERT slipped up to MISS WILTROUT and asked if the nomination could include the teachers. He evidently had the idea that some of the faculty were pretty, handsome or love sick! Which??? We thought it a great joke! I wrote a letter to Bill at noon, then worked in the laboratory one period this afternoon and afterwards, finished my Physics notebook to hand in. Today I received a letter from CLEO RIDDLE, my old chum. She is in business school at Vincennes and is getting along very nicely. She often regrets that circumstances were such that she could not finish H.S. before taking a business course, but this seemed unavoidable. VEVA FLORY, who was in my class last year, gave up her school work and is back at her former home in Arthur, Illinois, clerking in a store. Tonight I have read several chapters in "Adam Beade." All the folks went to church and I stayed at home all by myself.

Thurs. Dec 6, 1917. I forgot to mention that CARTER has left us to join the colors, and fight for liberty. He left Friday, Nov 29. When the boys told me Sat night that he had gone, I said I didn't want to go back to school with CARTER gone because we'd never have any more fun. He was always simply the LIFE of our Geography classes. MISS HILL said we should put up a star for him because he was brave in going. There has been an American flag put over his desk to prove his patriotism, but somehow, when I see it, I always feel sad because it makes me think he is dead. We had an exam on Physics this a.m. and another on English. I was glad to hear from an old friend whom I visited at Indianapolis this fall. She tells me one of her soldier brothers, who was in the service in Texas a year ago last summer, is now in France, fighting. The other one is at New Port News, Virginia., preparatory to sailing for France. I am so glad that I got to see both of them while they were yet at Fort. Benj. Harrison this Fall. We had been neighbors when we were very small children but had not seen each other for over thirteen years, until I spent about three weeks in Indianapolis just before school began. Tonight I read several chapters in "Adam Beade," and only went to sleep three times! Then I woke up for good and got so interested in the book that I stayed up long after the other had gone to bed.

Fri. Dec. 7, 1917. Yesterday a.m. we awoke to find the ground covered with snow. That makes Christmas seem nearer. This a.m. our clocks had all stopped and we didn't get up until 6:30 a.m. and that made me rush to get ready for school. I did not attend the High School party last night but I could not fail to hear that MARY BLACKMORE was recognized as the prettiest girl and BALLARD SHERTZER the most handsome young man. Hurrah! BALLARD is coming out wonderfully we all think! LELIA CAVENS and JAMES INGLE won the pickles.

MISS MOFFITT gave us a written history exam and an oral geography test today. We all look forward to Monday with fainting hearts because the cards are coming out. Today I received a letter from Jasonville with but little news in it. But the one I got from FLOYD at noon was certainly amusing enough. I do just love to receive and write letters to people who answer promptly and write good newsy letters.

MISS WILLIAMS has been organizing a knitting society at the High School, for the soldiers. The idea is to put in extra time of a morning before class and again at noon between bells. The basement will be fitted up as comfortably as possible for this work. Today an unexpected call came to hand in our Diaries and found mine at home with today's notes not in. I did not go to church tonight either but stayed at home to study and rest up. I am invited to a surprise birthday party tomorrow night for a neighbor boy. There is also a pie supper at the Furnace and church at BETHEL. It certainly seems that it never rains but what it pours.

Sat. Dec. 8, 1917. I have been very busy all day. I ironed all morning and cleaned up the house this afternoon. Saturday is always my busy day. Received a letter from BILL HENRY that I would have company tonight but this weather will probably prevent that. I am not going to church because it is dreadful cold and [illegible]. Nothing much ever happens on Saturday out here.

Sun. Dec 9, 1917. Just finished a letter to a soldier friend. I have been about to freeze all day. It is reported 7 degrees below zero and has snowed about all day. We all went to church this a.m. but there was not many out. I helped mama get dinner and wash the dishes. We had the best baked chicken with dressing and dumplings today for dinner. I am going to read in "Adam Beade" for a few hours and then go to church tonight. Last night I read on it until 10:30 and finished a letter afterwards before bedtime. This cold weather makes me dread my trip to school tomorrow.

Mon. Dec 10, 1917. Today has been a cold, bad day. We came to school almost frozen and remained in that condition until afternoon. However, we only had school the first and second period in the morning. Several of us who stayed for lunch went down in the furnace room. I tried hard enough to read in "Adam Beade" but I found it a difficult task among persons who acted as if they had just gotten out of some insane asylum. We got our cards after school today. My grades were not good as I should have expected. Sometimes I think it's a pity that all of us aren't on to bluffing as we could get good grades too. But after all, it is not the grades which really count so much but the fact as to whether or not we are truly educating ourselves and all our bluffing now will not attain that desire.

Tues. Dec 11, 1917. The school building is some warmer today but we were disappointed in not having chorus practice. Last night I read in my outside book until after ten and got quite a lot done for Monday night. Received another letter from LYONS this a.m. FRANK GRAY asked me if that was another copy of the PLUMMER WEEKLY and I told him it was a semi-weekly now. FRANK sure likes to tease me but he wouldn't like for some of us to tell someone all we knew. MISS MOFFITT gets rather vexed at our geography class today because we laughed so much. She said we were worse than the Freshies and we acted "perfectly idiotic." She said, "I thought I told you the other day where they put people who laugh all the time!" The WENDELL became real aroused and said, "Where was it?" She answered, "Well, WENDELL, I don't need to tell you, for you'll learn soon enough through your own experience."

Wed. Dec 12, 1917. Another cold day. Last night we girls went out to PLUMMER in the car, to a party. We stayed all night with VENUS and had a very nice time. This a.m. we had five miles to drive in and like to never got the Ford going and when we did we couldn't make much time on account of snow drifts. Consequently I was two minutes tardy at school.

MISS MOFFETT broke her ankle last night while sleigh riding. We are all very sorry for her and miss her at school. I finished "Adam Beade" tonight but have not outlined it yet. I am crazy about the story and believe it to be the most interesting book we have read yet. Was surprised today when OLIVE McCARTY and I received letters from our unknown friends or correspondents in Ohio. They are high school students and always tell a lot about school. My letter had some German in it and MISS BAILEY will be the translater of it.

Thurs. Dec 13, 1917. We are having some winter weather now. The weather man says colder and more snow. Such weather may soon end our driving to school. The streets were very slick and icy today. MAURINE, MARY BURCHAM and I went to school together. Part of the time we were in doubt about which directions we were going. I had on high heels with rubber caps on them and I simply couldn't stand on my feet. As we were hurrying along to get there in time for chorus practice, we heard the unladylike phrase of "Oh! Gosh!" and I then realized I was being assisted from my humble seat. We all laughed quite a little. My one consolation was that "only fools stand in slippery places." MR. ACKERSON, the County Agent, is acting as a substitute for MISS MOFFETT. He taught us both history and geography today. We had an interesting class and some fun too. He asked EARL STONE what the "Know Nothing Party," was in History. EARL says, "I don't know!" MR. A. said, "Well, say you'd have made a good member, wouldn't you?" We considered it as a good one. Last night I studied and wrote a letter. Tonight I am going to start on my book review outline. We worked at the library until 5:00 o'clock last night.

Fri. Dec 14, 1917. Welcome Friday - which means a vacation over Sunday. We are all usually glad to see Friday come, not so much because we do not like school (for I do not doubt if most of us had our way of staying at home, going to school or working, that we'd go to school), but because it gives us a change and relieves the monotony of our daily lives. MR. ACKERSON did not come to teach us Geography today so MISS WILLIAMS told ELIZABETH to teach in her stead and for BLANCHE to take down the deportments. ELIZABETH made a good instructor. Tonight seems like a night off when we are not compelled to study. I am going to answer some letters.

Sat. Dec 15, 1917. Today was another busy day with Saturday's usual work and ironing. Besides some sewing. This evening I wrote on my book review.

Mon. Dec. 17, 1917. Old Blue Monday, as we used to say. One day never seems much bluer than another to me although we usually have something in our minds by which we unconsciously connect certain days in the weeks with and which makes that one day seem different from any of the others. We are beginning to think more of Christmas now that it is only a week off. How time does fly! It seems only yesterday that I was a light-hearted child running around over the fields in early spring searching for ripe strawberries. Often I recall passages we studied last year in our essay work. I always especially remember the essay on "Crabbed Age and Youth." They mean more to me now than they used to! I mailed a letter to Jasonville today and received two letters myself.

Tues. Dec. 18, 1917. Last night I worked on my outline until nine o'clock then wrote a letter. Today I heard from CLEO and also from my soldier friend in Virginia. He told me quite a little of Camp life. He is with a Detach of Battery A at Camp Hill. They are located on the Chesapeake Bay and can look out and see the boats coming in and going out. From Camp they can see some interned German vessels. He said they had left their "Rag City" and were quartered in cantonments and it seemed great to live in a house again. His brother who is in France already writes home that he is having a good time and they are treated kindly by the French people. MISS HILL gave the third lecture on absences and tardiness this morning. MR. ACKERSON spent most of the Geography period in telling us about corn and how it should be tested for planting. I tried to do some Christmas shopping after school. I finished my outline on "Adam Beade" tonight and I could almost shout for joy!

Wed. Dec 19, 1917. Today has not been very exciting at BHS. MR. ACKERSON told us some more about corn today. We will soon be expert farmers if he continues teaching us. I've got some work to do at home tonight.

Thurs. Dec 20, 1917. Christmas vacation is drawing much nearer. We are looking forward to it already. Yesterday one of last year's seniors CURTIS WILSON, visited school. BLANCHE and I went up town at noon and happened to meet BILL [HENRY] so we did not get back in time to get our geography lesson. We almost fell over when MR. ACKERSON said we were going to have a little test. We guessed at most of the questions and certainly did miss most of them. I made some Christmas gifts tonight.

Fri. Dec 21, 1917. This is our last day of school until after Christmas. My, but we're all glad. This morning we did not have the assembly study period (a thing which seldom happens except at semester exams). Then again at noon, we had the same privilege and MISS HILL insisted that we have some music so HAZEL played several pieces and some of the girls sang. Then we got MARTLE TALBERT to sing, "Where Did Robinson Cruso Go With Friday on Saturday Night?" We were all laughing when he finished, but felt quite different when he sang the war song beginning, "There's a Little Gray Mother Who Waits All Alone." We got off the last period today because we did not have English class. MR. ACKERSON announced that today was his last day with us. We were real sorry because all us liked him very much. We had chorus work this morning and sang Christmas songs. I've got plenty I expect to do over vacation.

Sat. Dec 22, 1917. This morning I ironed as usual on Saturdays, and this afternoon went to town. CLEO was up from Vincennes and came home with me to stay over Sunday. We may go to church tonight. I finished my Christmas shopping today. This is what DOROTHY said to MAY a little while ago "Ha! Mother, why does Aunt Verna's hands look pretty?

Sun. Dec 23, 1917. Last night BILL and GALE came out and we went for a drive to Worthington and back home by LINTON. We had a very nice drive. We did not go anywhere to church this a.m. Papa is sick today and we had the doctor after dinner. DEE [her sister] and MACK [DUKE] were up this afternoon.

Mon. Dec. 24, 1917. This is Christmas Eve and it is almost eleven o'clock. If I don't go to bed soon, Santa will come and catch me. I have worked until almost 9:00 wrapping and tying up gifts for our Christmas tree. MAY, ORA and DOROTHY ELIZABETH came over last night to spend Christmas and GLADYS came home from Indianapolis tonight. She stopped there on her way home from Fair Oaks. All of the children except ROXEY's will be at home for Christmas dinner tomorrow. We have our gifts all on the tree now and now in the morning little DOT and PAUL will think Santa has been here. We never open our family presents until Christmas morning and always act just like we did when we were children and Christmas came. It is the one big event of the year in our family. Oh, yes, we have a Red Cross card in our window tonight with a candle behind it. It has been such a bad night, not many passed to see it but the principle remains just the same. Last night the boys came out and took us to the Christmas program at SHARKEY where GENEVIEVE's sister teaches. Must go to bed. A Merry Christmas to everyone!

Tues. Dec 25, 1917. Christmas gifts! We have all be having a merry time today. This a.m. as soon as breakfast was over, BOB took the gifts from the Christmas tree and distributed them. We all got many nice presents. Mine were a nice purple silk chiffon scarf, a silk, colored bordered handkerchief, a lovely set of cut glass tumblers, an ivory toilette set with bluebird design, a box of stationery, a nail file and nail buffer, a crochet present, a dandy little leather bound Standard Daily Journal for 1918, and some money and other greetings. Mamma dressed up as Santa but scared my little niece so for fear he would take away her doll and carriage that we had unmasked her. DEE and MACK [DUKE] came up for dinner, bringing more Christmas gifts. We had a nice Christmas dinner with all the good things one can cook. The funny saying of my little niece kept us laughing at the table. She had heard of people who eat so much they bursted and she seemed to fear some one at our house would suffer the same fate. The next day when her father felt bad, she said, "Father fondered yesterday!"

BILL [HENRY] called me this a.m. and said he was coming out tonight.

Wed. Dec. 26, 1917. Papa [SIG ROGERS] is still sick and hasn't improved much. MAY is at DEE's today and GLADYS is trying to sew. I have been working on my history notebook and answering letters. Tonight GLADYS [RODGERS], BOB [RODGERS] and I are invited to a party at MR. DUKE's. We are anticipating a nice time.

Thurs. Dec. 27, 1917. MAY [ROGERS FAINOT] has returned home this morning. There was a nice crowd at the party and we had a good time. We were served with oyster soup and crackers. Of the crowd there were four BHS students (formerly, who are teaching now, another ex-graduate, and three who are at present in BHS). We played the piano and sang and also had quite a number of amusing games.

Fri. Dec. 28, 1917. Mamma [ELLEN DIXON ROGERS] and I washed this a.m. Then Papa, mama and GLADYS went to town this afternoon and bought a new VICTROLIA. GLADYS had given Dad and Mother a check for $75 as a Christmas gift and suggested part of it would be nice in a VICTROLIA. We are all getting a lot of enjoyment from the gift and I believe it is educational as well as a pleasure to hear. The boys at home certainly do enjoy it and love to play it. There is so little one can do in the county in wintertime and with bad weather. But give me summer and the country is the only place!

Sat. Dec. 29, 1917. There was the usual Saturday's chores and ironing to do. Then sis and I both washed our hair this morning. BILL is coming tonight and may bring his soldier brother along. We are going to have oyster soup, cracker and pickles. This evening I made candy and mama made popcorn balls. We also have peanuts and apples for mince. I have taken cold since washing my hair. Oh, dear. I feel bum.

Sun. Dec. 30, 1917. When I awoke this a.m., I realized I had a big siege of tonsillitis coming on. I stayed in bed until afternoon. Mama and Papa went to MT. ZION and the preacher and his wife came home with them to spend the day. DEE also came up. I already know there can be no school for me for days with my throat swollen until I cannot eat nor drink and can scarcely talk audibly. I dread an attack of this kind for I know what it means. Missing school is bad enough without suffering.

Mon. Dec. 31 1917. Nothing but tonsilitus.

Tues. Jan 1, 1918. Tonsilitus.

Wed. Jan 2, 1918. Tonsilitus.

Thurs. Jan 3, 1918. I have been able to sit up some today and feel a little better. I guess my throat has broken and perhaps I can go back to school in a few days. With such severe weather the doctor will probably keep me in as long as possible. Mama is real sick today and yesterday too. Papa and BOB are serving all positions. Papa was sick himself until Sunday. GLADYS left for Fair Oaks Monday. I am anxious to get back to school and make up my work before the semester exams. It means so much to get your daily lessons and make up work too. I must quit and lay down for awhile. I've been up too long now. I fear for my own good.

Fri. Jan 4, 1918. Am some better today. This evening they let me out of doors for the first time since last Saturday. I had to go down to Dr. CRAVENS and have my throat sprayed and get more medicine. BOB and I drove down to the school house after 4:00 p.m. and I got some of my books and assignments. Talked with MISS HILL and find I will have plenty to do before the semester exams begin Tuesday. She acted very nice about my being ill.

Sat. Jan 5, 1918. Slept well last night and have been up all day. Have tried to study most all the time but am not gaining much headway I fear, as I feel more like lying down than sitting up. I have received five letters and some pictures this week. The pictures are of high school pupils in OHIO. My soldier friend writes from Virginia. "When we are not on duty, we find it difficult to pas the time away. But when we do get any reading matter there is always a rush for it. It's bad enough here, but I'll bet we'll almost go insane when we get across with nothing at all to read." This week's news (BLOOMFIELD) gives a small portion of a letter from his brother, CORPORAL FARLEY, who is "Somewhere in France." Thursday I sent for a copy of "Lorna Doone" and hope it comes quick so I can begin reading it.

Sun. Jan 6, 1918. Today is a bad rainy day. I did not get up until real late because I felt bad. BOB stayed all night with WILLIE S. last night. This a.m. they went to church at MT. ZION and WILLIE came here to spend the day. REV. DUSTIN was here also. We had music all afternoon while I was trying to study my Physics lessons I missed. Last night they would not let me out to go to church but BILL came out and we had a good time anyway. All of us are going to MT. ZION tonight.

Mon. Jan. 7, 1918. My! It seems strange to be back at school again after not being there since Christmas. Still I find I haven't much time to spare and I have a week's work to make up and review for exams.

*****
STANDARD DAILY JOURNAL - 1918

Presented to Verna Rogers, December 25, 1917, By her sister Gladys [for Christmas]
For Identification:
My Name: Verna V. Rogers
My Residence: Orchard Farms, Bloomfield, Indiana
My Home Telephone: 3 on 253
In case of accident or serious illness please notify: Sig Rogers, Bloomfield, Ind.
Or Bill Henry, Lyons, Indiana
The make of my Automobile: Chevrolet
Its Number: 161697
My Weight was: 97 and my Height: 5'3"
Gloves: 7. Hosiery: Ladies. Shoes: 4 ½-5

Jan 1, 1918, Tues. A Happy New Year! This little book was given to me for Xmas by GLADYS. I am keeping a diary for English besides this one. I took tonsillitis on Saturday night and have it quite proper by today. This is a bad beginning for a New Year - to miss school. I tried to make some resolutions but felt to bad to think about it even. GLADYS left yesterday for city.

Jan 2, 1918, Wed. I don't know what to think. BILL was here Saturday nite. I certainly was surprised and I have worried about it ever since and still I don't know what to do. If I only knew - but then I always think of last summer and that bothers me so sometimes. I am glad I have dropped her since I've learned some more things. It seems she still insists on being friends the way she calls me up and tells me her troubles. As if I didn't have enough of mine.

Jan 3, 1918, Thurs. More tonsillitus and worse at that. My throat has broke but I'm still pretty sick. Got a letter and some pictures from E. BROWNE yesterday. Oh! You preacher's son! Ha! I am so glad CLEO and I have got to be together and have a good old fashion talk. I know she is one of the dearest friends a girl ever had and I love her for it. GALE and BILL came out on Saturday and Sunday nights. We went to LINTON and WORTHINGTON one time and SHARKEY program on other.

Jan 4,1918, Fri. BOB and I went to town for me to see Dr. this p.m. I got a letter from BILL and one from JIM. I certainly felt silly after I had read both of them and thought of all they had said. One was real serious while I take it the other is only an old friend who is rather lonesome in camp life. I should have gotten both letters the first of the week. One of the letters was real pitiful to me and I don't know what to do. It seems it will take a long time to decide best.

Jan 5, 1918, Sat. I received another letter from BILL and one from CLEO. Bless both of their hearts. They are so good to me. I got a set of cut glasses for Xmas and an ivory toilette set. It was such a nice present but I felt like he should not have spent so much on me when he has to hire a livery rig every time he comes almost. He came out Christmas night too. No one could be any better and I certainly appreciate it all very, very much.

Jan 6, 1918, Sun. BILL was out last night and we stayed at home. I learned what G.S. said and I am not much surprised at anything he would tell to go against me. I could say some things that would harm him enough if I were of a mind to do so. But let him talk for I know BILL doesn't believe one word he says. I was certainly surprised at what I heard I had said since I never knew anything of it before. I feel like I certainly have one true boy friend anyway so I dont mind so much.

Jan 7, 1918, Mon. I went back to school again today for the first time since Christmas. Seems like so much has happened since I got out a few weeks ago. But then, I'm not going to worry any more than necessary. I worried so Saturday nite and seems like that worries someone else so too. My conscience is clear so why should I study on things which are told for a purpose? My actions may have caused me to be misjudged but I am glad of one thing, that is that I am true to myself because I know myself.

Jan 8, 1918, Tues. The semester exams begin today. I sure dread them because I have missed so much and it's hard to make up work. The teachers were very nice tome about it. I cannot believe I will fail for half year but then, "you never know" as GALE says. Guess GALE got a letter from CLEO last week My! Wouldn't JACK raise if he knew that? My opinion is she could do a lot and not be anymore than even with JACK. I am glad she likes GALE for I think he is a fine fellow and so does someone else think so as they are best of friends.

Tues. Jan 8, 1918. The semester exams began this afternoon. We had Phyical Geography. I reviewed last night and then all noon today. I'm so tired studying and writing I feel like I'd like to run off and stay about a month and never see any more exams. Guess I'll go to MT. ZION for change then maybe I can review better tomorrow a.m. as I have to go to school.

Wed. Jan 9, 1918. I reviewed on History this am. and had exam on it this afternoon. It was certainly hard enough. I dread to think of what my grades will be for the semester. For my part, I cannot see the fairness of having semester exams anyway. For if one passes on the monthly work, they should not be expected to remember what they have learned forever. And I don't believe many of those who are exempted from finals could pass them one bit better than those who are not. But then, that is our punishment because we weren't born wise or haven't the ability to bluff well enough.

Jan 9, 1918, Wed. BOB and I went to church at MT. ZION last night. A.D. was there and we sat and looked at each other most of time. It was funny in a way but it set me to thinking about things which I have tried to forget and would be much better off if I only could. It seemed every time I looked up he was looking at me and we acted so queer. What wouldn't I give to just know what he was thinking? I had not seen him for ages. I wonder how his affairs are progressing now but then it's nothing to me!

Jan 10, 1918, Thurs. Had exams all day today. Got a letter from BILL this am. Something new to wonder over today. Ha! I don't see what S.B. could have any connecting in our affairs but suppose I'll know as soon as I se him. Oh, yes, HELEN went down to school with me yesterday and we had a little talk together She is going to start in school Monday and I am sure glad for we can have a good time together and I care more for her than for any of girls who are going already. She told me about RUTH & B.M.

Thurs. Jan 10, 1918. Last night I reviewed until about 10:30 and went at it again before breakfast this morning. We had English and Physics today and both of them were real hard. It seems to me all of our exams have been harder than usual, but perhaps I haven't gotten the work as well too. We Seniors do not have to go tomorrow and my! But I'm glad for I'm so tired of exams.

Jan 11, 1918, Fri. Finished all my exams yesterday and we seniors were out all of today. I'm glad for it has been awful bad. I wrote BILL a big letter last night. Had intended to write JAMES tonight but had too much also to do. Oh, yes, BILL & I went to MT. ZION Sunday nite and not right behind B.S. He and his mother both certainly did take a good look at us but shaw! I should worry! Ha! They don't interest me much. But BILL likes to tease me about it. I had to make desperate threats Sun. nite to make him stop teasing me.

Fri. Jan 11, 1918. I got some new records at McCRAKEN's yesterday and Tuesday we got twenty new Little Wonder records from wholesale company. They are real good. I played them today while I ironed and BOB worked with the meat. We butchered yesterday. Mamma and dad went to church this morning. Today has been a bad snowy day. The snow is getting real deep I found when I took a letter to the mailbox. My copy of "Lorna Doone" came yesterday and I am going to begin reading it tonight.

Sat. Jan 12, 1918. Today is a winter day for sure. The thermometer registers 20 degrees below zero and the ground is covered with drifted snow. It certainly is cold here. We haven't seen a soul all day and the horses and cattle are standing in the barn shivering. Papa says it has not been so cold here for about twenty-three years. I had depended on going to town this afternoon to get my history report at the library but it is simply next to impossible to take a horse out in such weather. Our mailman was not able to make it on the route today. I wrote in my Daily Journal book last night. This morning I did all the housework and read two chapters in "Lorna Doone." I believe it is going to be interesting and I certainly hope so for it is rather bad to be compelled to read books one does not enjoy. I would be glad if we had more time for reading on outside work. When I was in the grades my word was easy for me and I got very good reports. Still, I had plenty of time for reading. I would read every night adn soon I had read all the books in the school library. I was certainly wild about reading books. In fact, I spent practically all of my spare time in that way until I had the measles and after they settled in my eyes I had to give up reading for a long time. And since I entered BHS [Bloomfield High School] we have had very little time to spend at leisure. Sometimes it seems strange to me that as pupils we are expected to do so much outside work, to read news papers, current events, new war books and dozens of other things, when if we put all of our time out of school on our compulsory studies we would no more than master them. I believe we would do better with more outside work and less of school room. I realize in my own work I lack the proper power of concentration. I was not taught to cultivate it when I was younger and now it is harder for me.

Jan 12, 1918. Sat. Today is a snowy bad day. The thermometer is 20 degrees below zero. The wind is something fierce too. The horses and cattle are shivering in the barn. Papa says it's the coldest day we've had since about 23 years ago when they lived at Crawfordsville and it was 20 degrees below here. The snow is blowing about and drifted everywhere. We cannot go to church, it's so bad. And I know BILL won't get to come out either. Boo-hoo! Mail could not come today either.

Jan 13, 1918. Sun. Another zero day but not quite as cold as yesterday. The roads were impassable so this a.m. six men and the supervisor cleared the drifts. I have been in until I'm like a housecat. I got so angry today because I couldn't be out that I cried and wished to God I had been a boy. Boys have so many more liberties than girls, who dare not move without being talked about and criticized. I felt like if I were a boy I'd fight and relieve my feelings. BILL [HENRY] called, he's coming out tonight.

Jan 14, 1918, Mon. BILL stayed all nite last because it was so dreadfully bad and snowy. Had a modern snow bound today and we could not go to school this a.m. MR. DOYLE and his road crew got out and shoveled the road path as BILL [HENRY] & I drove in at noon & I went to the library to get some quotes. We had only three teachers so couldn't have school. DAISY and I went to see poor MISS MOFFET. Froze my feet coming home and had an awful time too.

Jan 16, 1918, Tues. LURA & I got to town at 9:00 a.m. today and was late of course. The snow was some 18 inches deep and the horse could hardly walk as a fresh snow fell last nite. Mamma walked me around and around the room and rubbed my feet with snow and coal oil yesterday. I cried and said I was afraid to rub them and PAUL took it so serious he never even laughed. They always tease me. Ha.

Wed. Jan 16, 1918. Got our cards Mon and I passed ok, had 3 B's for the semester. The teachers were good to me because I'd been sick and missed so much. The weather has moderated somewhat and more pupils are in attendance now. ABI DeVILBUSS and HELEN M. have started in again and so have a bunch of Freshies. The teachers are all here except MOFFETT now. The streets are being cleared. I never did see such a blockade before.

Thurs. Jan 17 1918. All week the trains have scarcely run and we can hardly get our mail. Got a nice letter from BAKER Tues. Said JAMES would probably leave for France soon. Poor boy - but he is very brave about it. LURA and I offered our assistance to WILTROUT yesterday in picking her up when she slipped and fell flat on side walk. I could hardly repress a laugh. Saw G.D. as I was reading BILL's letters.

Fri. Jan 18, 1918. This is PAUL [ROGERS, her brother]'s ninth birthday. I can easily recall when he was born - used to have to take care of him when I'd like to have been playing. Heard CHUCK [HENRY], BILL [HENRY] and ORVAL had a turn over in town today in their bobsled. Rather upset. There's dignity in imagination. The fuel problem is so serious that all unnecessary fires are to be put out. Theatres, saloons, and churches are to be closed in Indianapolis. The worst I ever knew.

Sat. Jan 19 1918. Got a letter from sis yesterday and the told about "their snow." They are worse off than us and Chicago worse yet. Got another letter from BILL [HENRY] today and he is coming tonight.

Sun. Jan 20, 1918. EVERETT and MAC have been here all day. Last nite was a sad affair in a way. Bill says he's going to leave for camp within a week. He promised to see me before leaving.

Mon. Jan 21, 1918. The ELMORE HOTEL burned Saturday nite. Guess it was a sad affair and a great loss. They teased me a lot yesterday but oh, gosh, I felt like indigo blue. All the talk at school is over the fire. Practically every thing in the Hotel was burned and some of the boarders slightly injured.

Tues. Jan 22, 1918. Studied lessons last nite & read in "Lorna Doone." Had an enthusiastic hour's practice this a.m. MISS WILTROUT is sure a good leader and knows her business. Maybe she can teach us blockheads something after all.

Wed. Jan 23, 1918. MISS HILL announced the a.m. and p.m. 30 min study period can be used for pleasure as long as we don't abuse the privilege and make a rough house of it. This really seems like a grand release from prison. Oh! To be free! Our BHS has got to be so formula and dry. We need an awakening. Now we have a little better chance of getting better acquainted.

Thurs. Jan 24, 1918. We are having a good time at new period. Usually have music and singing. Got a letter from BILL this morning. Said he's going to take my advice and stay on the farm some longer. He called last nite to say he couldn't get a rig to come out.

Fri. Jan 25, 1918. Sowing again and slick yet. We have only a little path dug along the sidewalk for the school kids. BILL came down to school with me early today and we had a nice little talk. He is going to EDWARDS PORT today to work. Said he'd write me Sat if he stayed there.

Sun. Jan 27, 1918. BOB [ROGERS] was going to Indianapolis this a.m. as I took him to train, but his partner never came so he stayed here. BILL came out and we stopped in to see MARTHA & HUBERT for our first time. Had a nice talk. Poor kids. Them and me used to have some fun time together and some dreadful times, but oh, you never know til you get married, or so they say. The weather is still awful snowy and slick and cold. A blue blaze.

Tues. Jan 29, 1918. Oh, yes. I got the nicest letter from JAMES Mon. Said, "We're going over in a few days. Must hear from you again before I start." He's been at Newport News, Virginia since the RAINBOW BOYS left New York. Is on a horse transport now. I sure hate to see him go for WARREN and he seem about like relatives to me. Seniors are planning a party and have stirred up the Freshies.

Fri. Jun 28, 1918. I've always heard June was the month of roses and brides and I'm glad my marriage occurs in June too. Am sending out our announcements today. BILL [HENRY] came out last nite and we intended to go down and get our license this a.m. but the car won't run at all. It's raining now and has been almost all nite. Looks like a bad Bride's Day [showers of blessing?] but I've hopes our life will be much better.

Sat. Jun 29, 1918. Well, we had an awful time getting married but we are now and nothing but death can part us. Both of us feel we've done the best thing possible and are very happy together now. Last nite our car wouldn't run so we got MAC [DUKE]'s Ford and BOB [ROGERS], OLIVE [McCARTY], GLADYS [ROGERS] and us drove to REV. SPENCER at SANDBORN and were married. Today looks much better for a sunshiny life for the groom.

Sun. Jun 30, 1918. Today we had a wedding dinner for my family and BILL [HENRY]'s. Eats were swell. Had a fine time. We go to his people's home Tuesday at PLUMMER. I have been there twice before.

Mon. Sep 16, 1918. Commenced picking apples today up home. I am here helping sort. So is CALLIE. Seems queer now we're both married. Later: Dad [SIG ROGERS] had over 1,500 bushels of Grimes!

Wed. Nov 6, 1918. After four long months I will find time to drip a few more lines. It hardly seems possible we've been married so long, but as always, time flies fast or faster now. Ha! Today ironed and helped clean house. We put our white furniture up today. Wonder how long it will stay white? Was over at town Sat. and was sure surprised to learn WADE F. was married, second to tie in our class of engaged Seniors and me first, think of it?

Mon. Nov. 11, 1918. Today is destined to be the greatest day in the history of the world. The Armistace for PEACE was signed in France. Bells have rung, noises been heard all day and people are running wild with joy. Glory be to God - the war is over and Bill is safe, as well as millions of others. This will be the happiest of days for many mothers, wives and sweethearts.

Tues. Dec 24, 1918. BILL and I helped HICKS SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASS with a Christmas market today and came on out home for Christmas. So did MAY, ORA, DOT and GLADYS, ROXIE, EVERETT and LOUISE, DEE and MAC. We have been arranging presents on the tree for Santa like we did when we were children. But "those beautiful days" can never, no never return.

Wed. Dec 25, 1918. Merry Christmas every body got a lot of nice presents from the tree and we had Santa for DOT and OPAL. All we children were here for Christmas because mom begged so hard.

Tues. Jan 8, 1918. The semester exams began this afternoon. We had Physical Geography. I reviewed last night and then all noon today. I'm so tired studying and writing I feel like I'd like to run off and stay about a month and never see anymore exams. Guess I'll go to MT. ZION for change then maybe I can review better tomorrow a.m. as I have to go to school.

Wed. Jan 9, 1918. I reviewed on History this am. and had exam on it this afternoon. It was certainly hard enough. I dread to think of what my grades will be for the semester. For my part, I cannot see the fairness of having semester exams anyway. For if one passes on the monthly work, they should not be expected to remember what they have learned forever. And I don't believe many of those who are exempted from finals could pass them one bit better than those who are not. But then, that is our punishment because we weren't born wise or haven't the ability to bluff well enough.

Thurs. Jan 10, 1918. Last night I reviewed until about 10:30 and went at it again before breakfast this morning. We had English and Physics today and both of them were real hard. It seems to me all of our exams have been harder than usual, but perhaps I haven't gotten the work as well too. We Seniors do not have to go tomorrow and my! but I'm glad for I'm so tired of exams.

Fri. Jan 11, 1918. I got some new records at McCRAKEN's yesterday and Tuesday we got twenty new Little Wonder records from wholesale company. They are real good. I played them today while I ironed and BOB worked with the meat. We butchered yesterday. Mamma and dad went to church this morning. Today has been a bad snowy day. The snow is getting real deep I found when I took a letter to the mailbox. My copy of "Lorna Doone" came yesterday and I am going to begin reading it tonight.

Sat. Jan 12, 1918. Today is a winter day for sure. The thermometer registers 20 degrees below zero and the ground is covered with drifted snow. It certainly is cold here. We haven't seen a soul all day and the horses and cattle are standing in the barn shivering. Papa says it has not been so cold here for about twenty three years. I had depended on going to town this afternoon to get my history report at the library but it is simply next to impossible to take a horse out in such weather. Our mailman was not able to make it on the route today. I wrote in my Daily Journal book last night. This morning I did all the housework and read two chapters in "Lorna Doone." I believe it is going to be interesting and I certainly hope so for it is rather bad to be compelled to read books one does not enjoy. I would be glad if we had more time for reading on outside work. When I was in the grades my word was easy for me and I got very good reports. Still, I had plenty of time for reading. I would read every night and soon I had read all the books in the school library. I was certainly wild about reading books. In fact, I spent practically all of my spare time in that way until I had the measles and after they settled in my eyes I had to give up reading for a long time. And since I entered BHS we have had very little time to spend at leisure. Sometimes it seems strange to me that as pupils we are expected to do so much outside work, to read news papers, current events, new war books and dozens of other things, when if we put all of our time out of school on our compulsory studies we would no more than master them. I believe we would do better with more outside work and less of school room. I realize in my own work I lack the proper power of concentration. I was not taught to cultivate it when I was younger and now it is harder for me.

Sun. Jan 13, 1918. This is another very cold day but not so cold as it was yesterday. Today a few people have been out in these parts. The roads are drifted something fierce. Today although it is Sunday, the road supervisor and six men worked at clearing away the drifts on the Spencer road. The road between here and town has never been broke and I fear we cannot go to school tomorrow. LURA's brother said he did not think they would let her start at all. I have stayed at home now for three whole days and have seen only three people besides our family. I'm beginning to feel like I'm imprisoned sure enough. Last night I read in "Lorna Doone" and then I read again all morning. This evening I've been writing letters. Several times in the last few days I have wondered how a modern "Snow Bound," would seem. It certainly would seem dismal to be cut off from even telephones, telegraphs, mail, and etc. I have some more writing to do tonight.

Mon. Jan 14, 1918. It seems we are "snowbound" for sure this time. This a.m. we could not get out in a buggy at all so that meant no school for me. Monday afternoon the road supervisor and his crew had the road dug through the drifts so I drove to town and got a history report down at the library. DAISY and I went down to see MISS MOFFETT and had a very nice little visit with her. She will probably be back at school before long to teach the History classes and English I. We all think MISS MOFFETT is so kind and nice. No school in p.m. I had to come home in a blizzard from town and froze my feet. Had a dreadful time with them.

Tues. Jan 15, 1918. LURA came up this morning for school and although we tried to give ourselves plenty of time, we did not get to town until 9:00. The last snow had filled up the road again to a depth of about eighteen inches so that the horse was compelled to walk every step of the way.

Wed. Jan 16, 1918. Schoolwork is going on a little more smoothly now, since the weather is moderated a little and pupils can get there. Then the teachers are all here now except MISS MOFFETT. Monday only three teachers were here. The streets have been cleared off quite a lot by snowplows and shovels.

Thurs. Jan 17, 1918. We have had a terrible time all week about trains not running and no mail getting in until last few days. I received a nice letter from DELLA Tuesday, telling me of the severe weather at Indianapolis. She said JAMES wrote he would probably leave Virginia soon for France, because two assignments had already been sent. Yesterday evening as LURA and I came out of VAN METERS store, we met a member of the faculty who upon stepping on the slick icy street, slipped and fell so that both her head and heels touched the street. I rendered my assistance to put her on her feet hardly knowing from the expression on her face whether she was going to laugh or cry. For my part, I could scarcely repress a laugh for it all looked so ridiculously funny. She was quite shaken up and bruised but not so seriously as might have resulted had she not struck my foot in sliding.

Fri. Jan 18, 1918. My little brother is nine years old today. When I look back to the night of his birth as I remember it quite well, it seems that I was a mere child. More snow today. Yesterday afternoon, BILL, CHUCK and ORVAL came over to town in a bobsled. When they turned the Bakery corner, the sled hit a drift and turned over, spilling them in all directions. Some real funny things have happened this week in spite of the weather. The fuel problem has become very serious and all unnecessary fires are to be put out. The theatres, saloons, and churches have been closed in Indianapolis and there is a great coal famine there. Today many of the shops closed for five days.

Sat. Jan 19, 1918. We received a telegram from EVERETT Friday that they were coming down on account of work being closed down for a few days. Yesterday we received a letter from GLADYS written Jan 12, at Fair Oaks. She said they were "snowbound" there then and told of worse conditions at Chicago. I received my second letter from Lyons for this week today. Company is coming tonight!

Sun. Jan 20, 1918. EVERETTs and MACs were here all day. We had music this p.m. It's too bad to be out much more than necessary so I am not going to church tonight. Heard this morning about the ELMORE HOTEL burning. That certainly is too bad and a great loss to the town. I read in "Lorna Doone" Fri. night and some today. I don't find hardly any time for outside work the way the schedule is arranged for I have to study History at night.

Mon. Jan. 21, 1918. Stayed at home last night and studied. The ruins of the ELMORE are a sad sight so see. It certainly is a shame and a severe loss to BLOOMFIELD. The fire and its results are all the talk at school today. MATHEL tells thrilling stories of the fire and how they all escaped. Practically everything in the hotel was burned and some of the boarders slightly injured.

Tues. Jan 22, 1918. Studied and read in "Lorna Doone" last night. I am getting more interested than ever in that story. We had chorus work this morning. MISS WILTROUT is an enthusiastic chorus leader but those who can sing at school won't try so very hard and those who would, like to and can't furnish the music. More work of that kind would be beneficial to our school if for nothing else to break the daily routine and relieve the monotony.

Wed. Jan 23, 1918. MISS HILL announces we are to have the study period before school begins in the morning and again at noon; to have a good time in. This privilege is to be granted us as long as we do not "make a rough house" of it. Most of the students hailed this proposition with delight

Thurs. Jan 24, 1918. We are making use of the "pleasure periods" by singing and playing the piano and having a good time in general. Got a welcome letter this morning and an important call tonight. Have just finished my Physics notebook to hand in.

Fri. Jan 25, 1918. BILL came down to school with me this morning. He is leaving for EDWARDSPORT today. We are still blessed with snowy weather and the streets are slick and icy yet.

Sat. Jan. 26, 1918. Usually Saturday's ironing and work with some extra studying. I always spend all my extra time over Sunday on outside work and getting my clothes in condition for the week.

Sun. Jan 27, 1918. Took BOB to the early train this a.m. but he decided not to leave for another day. BILL came home with us and we drove out to MT. ZION to Sunday School and stopped to see MARTHA and HUBERT for awhile. The first time I have paid them a call since they were married. The weather was dreadful this evening on account of the sleet.

Mon. Jan 28, 1918. Went to school this a.m. real early so I could take the boys to the train. They are going to Indianapolis to work. I received a nice letter from JAMES today. He said, "We're going over in a few days." His division was left at Newportnews, Virginia as a part of the RAINBOW DIVISION, and are going over on a horse transport.

Tues. Jan 29, 1918. Read on my outside work last night. Today was chorus day again. The Seniors are planning a party to be at GENEVA's Thursday evening. It seems to be causing some excitement among the Freshies and they have called a class meeting.

Wed. Jan 30, 1918. More party talk among our class and a few slight disagreements over this and that. Nothing much ever happens at school.

Thurs. Jan 31, 1918. Received word from the boys that they had obtained no work yet. This a.m. we could get no water on account of low pressure and school was dismissed until noon. LUCILE was visiting so some of us who had brought our lunch stayed at the building and had a nice time playing the piano and singing. We had a great stack of music of all kinds as BLANCH and I both had our music there.

Fri. Feb 1, 1918. I forgot to say that MISS NOTA, MISS SHERTZER, MISS MILTROUT and MR. BAUGHMAN entertained us yesterday morning with excellent music. The party at GENEVA's came off well. We went to the show to see, "The Soul of Satan," before the party. The party was strictly Seniors and the eats were great.

Sat. Feb 2, 1918. MR. COX gave a short talk Friday a.m. before school and ended it with a humorous reading. ELNORA VAN METER and MARIE HUDSON visited at school yesterday. Heard from both the boys again today that they were talking very much of going to Sheffield, Ala. To work at camp building. I worked on my Civics all afternoon at the library today. Saw MARTHA and CLEO in town. CLEO has been bookkeeping for her uncle now at Vincennes.

Sun. Feb 3, 1918. The folks went to church this a.m. and I stayed home. This afternoon the young folks of the community were at MR. HEATON's. We went coasting, played rook and had some music. Guess I'll have to get a new book from the looks of this one. So will say so long. Verna.

*****

"School Days: The Double Q Composition Book No. 172." Verna Rogers, Senior Diary, continued, 1917-1918.

*****

Mon. Feb. 4, 1918. It's still cold as blazes this morning. Last night MARTHA, FRANK, PARKER, EDITH and I went to MT. ZION in a two horse open sleigh. My, but it's grand sleighing now but we almost froze coming home.

Tues, Feb. 5, 1918. Received another long letter from BILL HENRY this morning saying they had given up going to Alabama but he'd probably enlist while at Indianapolis.

Wed. Feb 6, 1918. BLANCHE and I are about to figger out some things which have been bothering us. BOB wrote today that they had work and he would not be home for some time.

Thurs. Feb. 7, 1918. School works not so easy this term. We have been studying Browning and his poems. I like all of them and think they are fine. We are taking up "Carlyle's Essay On Burns," now. Blanche and I usually put in most of the noon hour studying on some afternoon lesson.

Fri. Feb 8, 1918. We've had a rainy bad week of it and I've been pretty busy too, but this p.m. LURA and IVA happened in after school and we had some music. Tonight all the neighborhood bunch are coming in to hear the victrola.

Sat. Feb. 9, 1918. Nine boys and three girls were here last night and we certainly did have a jolly time. I played every piece we had and then played a few over twice for them. They stayed until 12:15 and said if I didn't stop putting on new records they never would go home because they were all so crazy about the music. We have the only LOROPHONE in this community so it's quite a novelty to some of them.

Sun. Feb 10, 1918. Papa, mamma, PAUL (ROGERS) and I are going to DEE's (ROGERS) for dinner today. Oh, yes, I forgot to say BILL (HENRY) called up from Bloomfield Friday night and said he's just got in from Chicago, where he'd gone from Indianapolis. My, but I was surprised because I thought he was still at Indianapolis. Instead, he'd come by Chicago to visit his aunt. Guess he decided home was the best place after all. Last night he told us all the news from the folks.

Mon. Feb 11, 1918. The Seniors had a class meeting today and I decided to have a St. Valentine Party on Thursday evening. We are going to try and clean up the disgrace of the ill fated Freshman party. Oh, yes, MISS WILLIAMS and MR. EDMONDSON were chosen by our class last week for our chaperones at parties hereafter. The vote for those two was unanimous. [line missing] when we had our class meeting. We like this new idea so much. For my part I think it is much nicer and only the proper thing to do.

Tues. Feb 12, 1918. The great ABRAHAM LINCOLN's birthday. When we were in common school we always used to celebrate his birthday. Today he was not mentioned and I wonder why!?

We are still planning big for our party. The committees are at work on decoration and eats.

Wed. Feb 13, 1918. Received a letter this morning. BLANCHE, FRANK and we kids are planning some fun for tomorrow night. We've been having some pretty fair weather today. BLANCHE and I went up town at noon and saw CHUCK. I've got plenty to do tonight and some pressing besides.

Thurs. Feb. 14, 1918. St. Valentine's Day! I am going to stay all night at UNCLE JIM's tonight but MERL isn't going to the party. We got off from the assembly two periods this afternoon and worked at the Domestic Science Dept, decorating. VELMA and I also settled the bills and straightened out the grocery order. Got a long distance call last night that someone would be in town this p.m.

Fri. Feb.15, 1918. The party came off well last night. There were twenty-six present altogether and we had a nice time. Refreshments were cocoa, sweet pickles, marshmallows, two kinds of sandwitches [sic]. Eight guests were present and MISS WILLIAMS, MISS BAILY and MR. EDMONDSON. We played games and had some contests.

Sat. Feb. 16, 1918. The Sophomores had a party at OLIVE (McCARTY)'s Thursday evening too. Yesterday morning we were all sleeping in Civics and everyone seemed to have on a funny spell and couldn't stop laughing at every little [page missing]

Week that no Saturdays I should help with the work at home and Sundays weren't made for studying.

Tues. Feb 19, 1918. We began practicing for chorus work to be given by the High School at the Big Patriotic Meeting Friday. We are learning, "Stars and Stripes Forever," now. MISS WILTROUT wants us to learn to sing, "Praise Ye, Jehovah!" and "hit it" when we come to a "praise."

Wed. Feb. 20, 1918. Received a nice long letter this morning and will have to answer it tonight I suppose. We had chorus again today and are coming along nicely. Lessons are getting harder. BLANCHE and I put in a good part of the noon hour studying today.

Thurs. Feb. 21, 1918. Tomorrow is WASHINGTON's birthday and we are going to have a big all day celebration in Bloomfield. Hurrah! We need something to wake up such a dead town. Had hours of work again this a.m. for half an hour, then this evening we took the last period for drilling. MISS WILTROUT called us "children" and asked us to please stand on both feet and not gaze around over the crowd. Ha! Oh, well. We're not such youngsters but I admit we act almost as bad anyway.

Fri. Feb. 22, 1918. WASHINGTON'S BIRTHDAY. My, it seems nice not to have to go to school today. We are to report at 10:00 a.m. at Domestic Science rooms and again at 1:00 p.m. and march to the gathering. There is Farmer Institute here today, also Thursday. MR. HEATH's funeral is at our church this morning. We are off for school.

Sat. Feb. 23, 1918. Yesterday was a big day but we were marched around so and up and down so many steps that I'm about all in today. There was a very, very large crowed in town. So many people I hadn't seen for ages - it seems like a reunion almost. We almost made a grand failure of part of our singing but according to circumstances, as MISS WILTROUT said, we did very well. RUTH, and BILL, HELEN, BILL and I went to the show last night. It was a film of war pictures and was very interesting. Came home in the Flivver. We received $1,1786.58 check for apples today. [Note: Her father was Roland Sigel "Sig" Rogers, the orchardist.]

Sun. Feb. 24, 1918. GEORGE GRAY and his wife, FRANK, BLANCHE and BILL were here for dinner today. We certainly have some time together. Bur poor FRANK and the candy and apples I hope he isn't very sick tomorrow or Ill be to blame. We had plenty of music and singing and some pretty good eats. Took one picture but it wont be good as it was drizzling rain. The kids got lost coming out and came thru the worst dirt road. GALE was out again for awhile.

Mon. Feb. 25, 1918. Oh! It's raining again all day. Sure, because I intended to take some pictures. Everybody has some news to report to me. Ha! I'm afraid I'm getting to be a secret Bureau of Information. We got off the last period today because the water supply would not come on and about ten minutes after we left, it came on again.

Tues. Feb. 26, 1918. We ordered a new Chevrolet today and can get it any time within a few days. My! But I'm glad because we have wanted one for so long and we can have so much enjoyment from it. Papa called BOB (ROGERS) at Indianapolis to see if he liked the idea.

Wed. Feb 27, 1918. Received a letter from LYONS today. This has been a busy day at school. Tonight I must study my Civics lesson.

Thurs. Feb. 28, 1918. Mamma left for Indianapolis tonight. She is going to visit at ROXEY's (ROGERS) and do some shopping. GLADYS (ROGERS) is coming down from Fair Oaks tomorrow night so they can be together in the City. Received another letter from LYONS today. Ha!

Fri. Mar. 1, 1918. Goody, this is Friday and no more school until Monday. Mamma and BOB won't be home until Sunday night, so dad, PAUL (ROGERS) and I will be alone. That means I am to be chief cook and dishwasher for a few days.

Sat. Mar 2, 1918. The busiest day in the week. I have been busy all morning with the housework. Dad and I are going to town this afternoon to do some trading. BILL is coming out tonight.

Sun. Mar. 3, 1918. Dad and I went to church at MT. ZION this morning and PAUL went up to EARL's. DEE called me a while ago and said CLEO and JACK were coming out to see me this afternoon. I have some more outline work to do in "Carlyle's Essay on Burns," that I must do.

Mon. Mar. 4, 1918. Had just finished my outline work yesterday when MURL and his dad, UNCLE JIM and MR. WALK, from MORGANTOWN drove up in the car. They had not gone yet when CLEO and JACK came. BILL came about 7:00 and brought MR. ROLLISON and MR. GROUNDS out with him. We all had quite a nice time together. The folks came home last night from the city.

Tues. Mar. 5, 1918. CLEO went to school with me yesterday afternoon. She was so glad to get back to school and see all her old schoolmates. She is working as a stenographer in her uncle's law office at VINCENNES now and enjoys her work so much.

Wed. Mar. 6, 1918. Mamma got my graduation clothes at Indianapolis, three dresses, hose, trimmings and etc. She also purchased a suit for herself and some pretty living room rugs. We will have plenty of sewing to do now.

Thurs. Mar. 7, 1918. Hurrah! Our car came yesterday, and the folks went to LINTON after it. BOB learned to drive it easily with a little practice. I received a nice letter from MRS. BAKER today.

Fri. Mar. 8, 1918. DELLA said WARREN was in FRANCE yet and had written her to have me write him. JAMES had also arrived across safely and was drowned in the wrecked ships near IRELAND. Oh, yes, BILL and I received our summons to report at the Domestic Science Dept. on Mar. 12.

Sat. Mar. 9, 1918. I have ironed all morning and we are going to drive this evening in our new car. I have been reading some in "Private Peat," at nights this week, and find it very interesting.

Sun. Mar. 10, 1918. Had quite a whirlwind in town yesterday and last nite it turned much colder. We have a trip planned for today.

Mon. Mar. 11, 1918. Yesterday we all drove to MAY's and spent the day. She lives out four miles north-west of LINTON. Had a swell big dinner. Afternoon BOB drove BILL and I up to DOROTHY LACKEY's, then he took MAY's for a drive. We had a very nice visit with MR. LACKEY'S folks, as I hadn't been there for a long time. My little brother kept things lively for us going over.

Tues. Mar. 12, 1918. We went to church at the Methodist Sunday night. Last night I had some outside work to do and lessons to get as usual. Our assignments are getting harder and longer, too. It's study, study, study from daylight until dark, and then study some more the next day.

Wed. Mar. 13, 1918. Last night I stayed in town and we went to the party given by MISS WILLIAMS and MR. EDMONDSON, for the Lit. Intp., Current History, and English IV classes. Everyone had a very nice time, and today everyone is sleepy.

Thurs. Mar. 14, 1918. The fireworks promised for yesterday were postponed and a most interesting magazine story was read to us instead. Quite a delightful surprise. The story was of the KAISER's view of his life's work, and his repentance. I mailed a letter to WARREN this morning, to "Somewhere in France."

Fri. Mar. 15, 1918. Before many more Fridays now, school will be out and I don't know whether I will be glad or sorry. When I think of being out of school it makes me feel bad, because I realize our class will be separate, some of us perhaps forever. Our class seems to be more closely united now than ever before. Last night I embroidered on my new dress. Received a letter from LYONS, this evening. We have some new LOROPHONE records we are trying out tonight.

Sat. Mar. 16 1918. ROBERT took the MEASLES Thursday, French kind, so I suppose we'll all have them. ROWENA broke out with them at the party Tuesday. Some more school kids have them.

Sun. Mar. 17, 1918. Went to town yesterday evening and then stayed all night with OLIVE (McCARTY) and she came home with me today. We went to Sunday School at the Christian church and BOB drove down after us. Sunday School is being reorganized at BETHEL today.

Mon. Mar. 18, 1918. Yesterday, MARY and OLIVE (McCARTY) were here for dinner and in the afternoon, BILL (HENRY), HOMER and BOB came out. We went for a joyride and VENUS and HARVEY came out home with us, then we took a lot of pictures and went joy riding again. We had a big race too.

Tues. Mar. 19, 1918. Sunday nite, we six had the car and went to church at MT. ZION. Oh, goodness, I don't know when I have laughed so much as I did at that crazy HOMER last Sunday.

Wed. Mar. 20, 1918. My, this is a busy old school week. Ive got enough to do to wear a wooden man out. Two notebooks to be in and exam week too. The assignments dont seem to be getting any easier either.

Thurs. Mar. 21, 1918. Hurray! This is the first day of Spring and Summer is coming. Oh, deah! This weather gives me the spring fever - not only me but all the pupils and teachers too, I think. But we'll pay up for pretty March weather!

Fri. Mar. 22, 1918. Got a long-distance call last nite from LYONS and a letter this a.m. Wrote to CLEO after school today. Oh, yes, BOB got his pictures taken at Indianapolis. They are swell too.

Sat. Mar. 23, 1918. Our beautiful weather is turning out not so beautiful today. I wrote ELIZABETH yesterday about taking a course in millinery this summer at the City. I'm so anxious to go to a millinery school because I don't care about being a teacher. I was going to learn to drive today but it's too cold for me, guess we'll go do some shopping.

Sun. Mar. 24, 1918. We had a guest Saturday nite -wasn't it funny about the folks from TERRE HAUT? Well, it sure was anyway. Got some new grey shoes yesterday and some more purchases.

Mon. Mar. 25, 1918. Sunday afternoon, BOB, OLIVE, BILL and I went down to VENUS's. HARVEY was there - of course - and we had a very jolly time. Went for a drive over to LYONS and I had the mostest fun. We passed where OSCAR BOGARD lives. One certainly has a hard time in getting something to eat at Lyons. We had quite a laugh about BILL's sandwitch. That poor, crazy, crazy waiter - what a wonder he has been in EVANSVILLE long since.

Tues. Mar. 26, 1918. OLIVE was sick Monday a.m. and could not come to school. Well, no wonder, after all she ate yesterday. We had the car again Sunday nite and went to SOUTHSIDE MISSION. [Report] Cards out yesterday "FLUNK, FLUNK, FLUNK." We all went down!

Wed. Mar. 27, 1918. It's began to look like spring again and I am glad. This weather and school together has about gotten the best of my nerves already. Oh, yes, last week a fellow from Danville was down to advertise their school to we Seniors. Several of the kids talk favorable of Danville for the summer term.

Thurs. Mar. 28, 1918. My! But I've got a sore jaw. Had a tooth pulled Tuesday and he took out a piece of bone. Guess I'm a big enough bonehead without it tho. MISS WILTROUT was sick again so we had no chorus today.

Fri. Mar. 29, 1918. Friday's come once more. Goody! MR. BRANSTETTER died last night and will be buried Sunday at TULIP. So many kids were gone from school in our class this afternoon. BLANCHE, PAULINE, EVA and VELMA are sick. More measles at school this week. Think I'm taking them myself or else have spring fever. Got a couple letters this week from TERE HAUTE. Company gives us a surprise. Ha! A bunch of drafted boys left today and we went down to see them off. Heard CARTER was on his way "over there."

Sat. Mar. 30, 1918. Ironed all morning and went to town this afternoon. A busy old day for us all.

Sun. Mar. 31, 1918. A HAPPY EASTER! This is a lovely Spring day.

Fri. Apr. 5, 1918. Mamma and I are going to LINTON for MAY's this p.m. and do some shopping. We have two exams today and are going to have a LIBERTY DAY Programme. CLEO was worse yesterday so they sent for JACK and he went this morning. Poor dear. I wish I could do something for her.

Sat. Apr. 6, 1918. Have had a time all day the kids. PAUL just runs wild when DOROTHY is here. The paperhanger was here this week so we've had a lot of straightening up to do today. MAY's, mamma and I went to town this afternoon and it rained before we got back. Am expecting someone tonight. Tomorrow is our Church Day here.

Sun. Apr. 9, 1918. MAY, ORA, DOT, DEE, MAC, BILL and DUSTIN have been here all day and a time we've had. Drove to town right after dinner with BOB. Came back and folks took MAY's to LINTON. Are headed for church tonight I guess.

Mon. Apr. 8, 1918. Sleepy! Oh, gee! This new time is certainly rushing business. But I like school much better by it. Got a letter from BAKER Saturday saying JAMES had landed safely in France.

[End of Red School Diary, 1917-1918; begins Blue Book, Second Diary]

Tues. Aug 20, 1928. "Happily Ever Afterwards." 10 years later. In the excitement of getting married, etc., this little book was never finished but just ended like all good stories, "and so they were married and lived happily ever afterwards."The thought has come why not jot down some of after affects since we all know the story only had just begun! Aye! Aye!

Sept. 1918: Clothing allowance: Rose colored hat-$1.98, brown shoes-$6.00, brown hose-50 cents, taffeta dress-$11.03, corset-$3.00, veil-50 cents, union suit-$1.00.

Wed. Oct 1, 1930. Living in PLUMMER again. Children going on bus to LYONS CONSOLIDATED SCHOOL. BILLY [WILLIAM ROGERS HENRY] in 5th yr and BETTY [ELIZABETH LAUREL HENRY] in 3d. How time does fly. A year ago in July, RUSSELL died from operation and six weeks later, ROBBY. GLADYS was home this fall with her three babies for an extended visit. First visit in several years, poor kid. The silver lining doesn't show thru much for her as well as some more of us.

Thurs. Oct 2, 1930. Weather COOL. Yesterday was PA HENRY's and ROXIE [ROGERS]'s birthdays. Up home Monday and ROXEY ill for a week. Talk of hospital and operation soon. VIVIAN in LINTON HOSPITAL with ruptured appendix operation. One's world gets all shattered. BILL [HENRY] running for [GREENE COUNTY, IN] County Recorder. In another month we will know whether or not he is successful. I am so anxious about BUN MITCHELL and RUPERT FIELD, two of his buddies also.

Tues. Nov. 7, 1930. Well, the Election is over at last and every County Democrat was elected except poor RUPERT [FIELD]. How terribly sorry I feel for he and LULU [FIELD]. Feeling sorry for them, being left out, just about spoils our victory! BILL led the County ticket with a majority of 2,700 votes. Here's hoping times will be a little better for us as this election does mean steady pay at least.

Tues. Nov 8, 1932. Rainy. Today another election. This time a full county Democratic ticket was elected as well as The National ticket. Roosevelt-President & McNutt-Governor. How hard we have all worked for it. MRS. BRAMBLE, County Vice-Chairwoman, MRS. SHEETS-Democratic Club president, MINA ROLLISON-Rich Twp. chairwoman and all the rest. A big landslide with all county candidates a majority of 2,000 or more. HURRAY!

Tues. Nov 29, 1932. Tonight we members of Alpha Class entertained our mothers at a lovely dinner and party which had a shower for MARY ROGERS as a fitting climax. It was said by many to be the loveliest party they ever attended and one they will long remember. Forty-six were present. What a wonderful class of girls MARY HENDERSON and I have built up as teachers - with their cooperation.

Sun. Dec 7, 1941. Pearl Harbor. What news. Pearl Harbor was bombed last night or this a.m. by the japs. I hate war and can you imagine the people "slaughtered"?

Fri. Sep 3, 1943. World War II. Hello. Been quite a spell since Dec 4, 1932, when I last wrote in you, little blue book. The story of the happy years we expected were ahead did not materialize. Instead, BILL's term of office was the old story of politics, which has lead to our separation a year ago and my filing for divorce, which comes up next month. Such is the way of the world and those days in between we will not dwell on. Going to the city [ST. LOUIS, MO], to work soon. Renting the house and giving up housekeeping for good. BILLY [HENRY] is Tech. Sgt. in Army Air Corp at Macon, GA and BETTY [HENRY], to marry a marine soon and live at LaFayette. So long again for now.

NOTE: From 1943 until her death, Verna was employed with the U.S. Army Finance Department, in St. Louis, Missouri. She visited her daughter Betty and family in Tampa for two weeks at Thanksgiving and had been home less than a week. On the night of December 22, 1950, with work backlogged and the holiday schedule approaching, Verna worked late into the night to catch up. It was late when she left, very cold and snowing. She took a shortcut through a small, well-lit park between her office and her apartment. It was here she was attacked, robbed and strangled to death. The next day, a portion of her new red coat contrasting with the whiteness of a large bank of snow piled behind a billboard, led strangers to her body. Many clues were obtained from the crime scene, but Verna's killers were never apprehended. Her remains were returned home to Indiana, and in January she was buried in Grandview Cemetery, Bloomfield, Indiana.

Submitted by:Sue Bodishbaugh

Last updated 22.10.2009