1057-Steam-Shovel-and-Locomotive-on-Bush's-Hill-on-Silver-Creek-Branch-10-28-1903

1037-Interior-of-office-of-Chief-Engineer-and-Road-Master-(4-18-1903) Self-portrait by Willis Vail (second from right).

Note that Mr. Vail, being a good Quaker, did not use conventionally accepted names for days of the week.  The "plain calendar," sometimes called (more appropriately) the "scriptural calendar," uses numbers to denominate the names of the months and days of the week.  It emerged in the 17th century in England in the general nonconformist movement but became closely identified with Friends by the end of the 1650s and continuously since that time.   Thus, in Mr. Vail’s Journal, “First day” refers to Sunday, and on through the week.  Note also that there are scant references to holy days such as Christmas, since Quakers do not observe special holy days in the belief that each and every day can and should be holy.  Mr. Vail’s Journal uses numbers for months, but I have chosen to utilize month names for easy reading.  David Price

January 2, 1902    
Spent the day in packing to go South.  Father was up and took dinner with me.
January 3, 1902  
 Went down to see J. H. T. this morning, making definite arrangements about going South.  Go next Second day on 1 p.m. train from New York.  Spent the rest of the day in making a lot of blue prints of estimates of the work, etc....
January 4, 1902    
Spent the day in packing.
January 5, 1902    
Finished packing this morning.  After meeting, went to Adelbert Vail’s for dinner, where I staid awhile, then made several farewell calls, seeing Margaret & Sarah Vail, Belle Vail and Kate Shotwell.  Then went down to Cranford for a short time.  Called ast Aunt Maria Howard’s.  She is losing her memory very fast.  Two of her grandsons were there visiting.  Then called Vat Harry Adams.  Aunt Phoebe there.  Went out to Eugene’s for supper and staid awhile in the evening.  There called as Charles Vail’s, ??? and Eva being there also.
January 6, 1902    
After getting a lot of boxes and my trunk to the station, the boxes to go to Pittstown, managed to get off on the 8:46 train for ?Troy?.  Called in the Jersey City offices for a few minutes, and also the New York offices.  Called on Fred Bosworth for awhile and spent a pleasant time.  We left on 1 p.m. train taking Seaboard Air Line to Savannah.
January 7, 1902    
Arrived Savannah about 3:15 this afternoon, arr there three hours late.   Ellis Judd joined us at Hamlet, N.C. this morning.  Judd is one of the directors and a member of the Executive Committee of the Gulf & Ship Island R.R. and is also an associate editor of the Railway Age.  Soon after arriving went to see the terminals of the Central of Georgia Railway.  Found a rather poor arrangement.  Put up at the De Leon Hotel.
January 8, 1902  
This morning went across the Savannah River to the Seaboard Air Line Terminals.  These are new, and pretty well planned, and also the Plant Terminals, but nothing there to interest us.  Left about 3 p.m. nearly three hours late for Jacksonville, where we had about 1 ½ hours.  Thought I would see Father and Evangeline, as they had left New York last 6th day on a Mallory Line steamer.  Left Jacksonville about 8 or 9 o’clock on the Seaboard Air Line for Tampa.
January 9, 1902    
Arrived at Tampa about 7 this morning.  Went to the New ?Aluieria? Hotel.  There took the train for Port Tampa, 9 miles, to see the Plant terminals.  Returned about noon to Tampa.  After dinner Thompson and I walked over to the Tampa Bay Hotel, and spent the rest of the afternoon around the grounds, which were fine.  They have quite an orange grove.  Tried some of the oranges.  Left at 9:20 for Jacksonville.
January 10, 1902
Arrived at Jacksonville about 8:15 this morning.  Saw Father and Evangeline, who were going to St. Augustine on 9:40 train.  We left at 9:25 for Pensacola, where we arrived around about eleven this evening.  Passed through Tallahassee.  Put up at Escambia Hotel.
January 11, 1902
Looked around the L&N docks this morning, and this forenoon took 11:25 train for Mobile, arriving about 4 p.m. on the L&N.  Went out to look at the Southern Ry, and the Mobile and Ohio Railroad docks.  Put up at the Battle House.
January 12, 1902
Went out to L&N docks this morning, and also down to the Mobile, Jackson & Kansas City R.R. terminal.  Left on 1:35 train for Gulfport, the end of the trip 4:15.  Went to J. T. Jones place for the night.  He is President of the Gulf and Ship Island Railroad.  Also met here, T. P. Hale, the 2nd Vice President, E. P. Thomas, Auditor, R. Morgan, General Superintendent, Powers, Secretary, Bowers, General Counsel, L. A. Washington, Chief Engineer, and several others.
January 13, 1902
Spent the day looking around the pier, etc.
January 16, 1902
Went up the road this morning with the officials in Jones private car.  I returned from Star, 142 miles up, the rest going to Jackson to spend the night.  The road runs from Gulfport to Jackson, 160 miles, with a short branch Gulfport to Handsboro, 4 miles.  The improvements contemplated and now being made are dredging a ship channel 7 miles long, 300 feet wide, and 19 feet deep, building piers, dredging anchorage basin 1/4 mile wide ½ mile long, widening cuts and fills, ballasting the road, putting down heavy rail, 75 to 80 lb., putting in some new bridges, building new shops, etc.
January 18, 1902
Yesterday and today around Gulfport getting up information in regard to a ?? extended up to Nov 1st.
January 19, 1902
Writing letters all the forenoon, and part of the afternoon.   Took a walk about two miles west along the shore and back.
January 20, 1902
Went up on the pay car leaving about 6:15 this morning.  Went up the Columbia Branch and on up the main line.
January 21, 1902
Got in Jackson some time during the night.  Slept in the car.  Left about 7 o’clock this morning, coming down to Saratoga, and there up the Laurel Branch, and back and on back to Gulfport, arriving 9:30 this evening.
January 25, 1902
The state legislature and a lot of others came down on special train last evening, and today they were taken over the ship channel.  It started to rain after they left, and kept it up till after they returned when it cleared off.
January 26, 1902
Wrote letters this forenoon.  After dinner, Brewer, one of the men in the auditor’s office, and I took a walk about 1 ½ miles east along the L&N and back along the shore.
February 2, 1902
This forenoon spend in letter writing.  This afternoon, some others and myself took a sail on the Sound.  Did not go out far as it was windy and cold.
February 3, 1902
Very cold this morning, was along the road measuring cuts and fills.  Saw icicles a foot long under coal cars and 6 inches long on engine tenders.  Ground frozen some.
February 5, 1902
A sleet storm this morning, but became warmer during the day.
February 6, 1902
Went up to Feagan and walked on up to Saratoga.  A freight train was partly wrecked about two miles above Feagan, just before I reached there.  It was cleared away before time for train to return.  At Inda, though, there was another one, a work train, and that we had to transfer around, and then ran very slowly all the way in to Gulfport, not getting in till 1 a.m.
February 7, 1902
Today Mr. Thompson, some of the officials and I went out on a tug to near Ship Island to see captains of vessels anchored there, about plans for the wharves here at Gulfport, more particularly in regard to handling coal and lumber.
February 9, 1902
Cold and disagreeable this morning, but quite pleasant this afternoon.  Walked out on the pier and went a ways along the L&N R.R.
February 10, 1902
Very cold and windy.  Quite a good deal of ice found on pools of water.
February 11, 1902
About as cold as yesterday morning.  Went down to New Orleans, leaving here about 6:30, arriving about 9.  Took a ride around the St. Charles & Tulane Belt R.R.  Then walked around Canal St., bought a seat in a balcony to view the Mardi Gras parade.  Had to wait over two hours for it to come along.   After the parade I took Coliseum St. Car to Audubon Park, where there is a fine horticultural hall and immense live oaks.  Returned to Canal St. and bought some photo and engineering goods, then took a ride on the Esplanade and Canal Belt line cars passing the fairgrounds, City Park and the cemeteries.  Saw evening parade which was fine.  Left N.O. at 10 p.m. arriving Gulfport 1:15 a.m.  Had a very fine and enjoyable day.
February 14, 1902
My birth day, being thirty-four years old.
February 16, 1902
Spent at the office most of the day writing letters.
February 18, 1902
Came up to Hattiesburg tonight, and put up at the Commercial Hotel.
February 19, 1902
Rainy up till 8 o’clock.  Then started out on the NO&NE track to junction with MJ&KC, jumped, then followed their line south to where it intersected the Pearl & Leaf River RR, coming back on that to the G&SI, and down that a ways.  In the mean time clouds lifted and sun came out, so started south on the grading of the MJ&KC.  When I got out some four or five miles it started to rain again, and kept it up till 4 p.m.  At 5 it started again.  I put up at a farm house about 2 miles south of Augusta, family named Fuller(?).  Had a good deal of bad muddy walking and through a good many swampy places.  Walked about 18 or 20 miles.
February 20, 1902
Dull this morning and all day, but no rain.  Started out about 2:45 following the grade all the way to end of track, and the tracks for 10 miles to Merrill, the point to which the road is operated at present.  Walking much better than yesterday.  Only a few swamps to cross.  Reached Merrill about 6:10, having walked about 27 miles.  Judd came in on the 8 o’clock train.
February 21,1902
Left Merrill for Mobile at 6:15, arriving at Mobile 8:45.  Thompson was at the station to meet us.  Walked out over the yard and pier of this company, then took car and went up in the city.  Went to see the city engineer, lighthouse engineer, and Army engineers in reference to things at Mobile and Gulfport.  Took dinner at Klosky’s Restaurant.  Judd and Thompson left on 1:25 train for New York.  I then went around the city out Government St., and along Dauphin, visited old cemetery, etc.  Left Mobile about 5:35, 1 1/4 hours late, arriving Gulfport about 7:35.
February 23,1902
Worked most of today on my orchard (?) plan.
February 24,1902
Went up the road and walked from Epps to Ralston.  Got caught in the rain twice.
February 25,1902
Went up the road from Monroe to Seminary 14 miles, measuring cuts, fills. 
February 26,1902
Today went from Monroe to Seminary 14 miles, measuring cuts, fills.
February 27,1902
Rainy, heavy showers, with some hail at noon.
February 28, 1902
On the pier all day, measuring up work done.
March 2, 1902
Driscoll and I went up to Nugent and Landon this morning to get some photos.  Secured several nice ones.
March 3, 1902
Went to Seminary this morning and walked to Feagan.  Returned to Hattiesburg for night.
March 4, 1902
Walked our line from Feagen to Mt. Olive.  Rained all the afternoon, so came home.
March 5, 1902
Walked from Mt. Olive to Magee.  Up to Jackson to stay over night.  Put up at Edwards House.
March 6, 1902
Very heavy frost this morning, the heaviest I think I ever saw.  Went over the line from Magee to Braxton.  Returned to Jackson for tonight.
March 7, 1902
Over the road from Braxton to Florence.  Came down to Gulfport.
March 8, 1902
In the office most of the day.
March 9, 1902
Driscoll and I went to McHenry this morning to get photographs of the big cut just north.  This afternoon mostly spent writing letters.  Attended Episcopal services this evening.  Too much formality to suit me.
March 11, 1902
Finished measuring up cuts and fills on the main line this forenoon.  Spent last night in Jackson, and also today after finishing work.  Went in the capitol, which is an old dilapidated building.  A new one, ??? is being built, a fine large stone structure.  Took some trolley rides seeing the deaf and dumb institution, the blind asylum and the insane asylum.
March 13, 1902
Went up the road with Morgan and Bert Jones, being joined by Washington at Monroe to Star to look at a site of a proposed stone quarry.
March 14, 1902
Very stormy all day.
March 15, 1902
Mr. Thompson returned this evening.
March 16, 1902
This afternoon, Driscoll and I went along the shore east of here and secured some pictures.
March 24, 1902
All the week have been helping Mr. Thompson with his estimates of cost of Louisana & Arkansas Railroad and Natchez, Red River & Texas R.R.  This morning went up to Bond and got a couple of views, and also got one of the Cape Charles from the pier.
March 27, 1902
Came up to Columbia this forenoon.   Spent the afternoon looking around the place.
March 28, 1902
Left Columbia at 6:10.  Wanted to go to Laurel but when I reached Hattiesburg found N.O.& N.E. train very late so concluded to go on up the line.  Last night and yesterday afternoon there had been very heavy rains causing some washouts.  However we got as far as D’Lo.   1 1/4 miles beyond was a washout and water running over the track, so stopped there.  Later on about 30 feet of bank at the end of trestle below Strong River bridge washed out leaving the track hang in air.  Strong River up some 25 or 30 feet on up close to the bridge.  Had two stay here overnight.  No hotel, but one small one, so almost all had to stay in the cars.
March 29, 1902
I did not sleep much, but got along very well.  About six o’clock got out and went back to Strong River.  It had risen a foot during the night, but had fallen some 8" then.  A piece of bank between the train and D’Lo also had washed out, so no chance to run either way.  I concluded to walk down the line, and went as far as Saratoga, nearly 20 miles reaching there about 12:10.  The up train came just then so concluded to go back up.  Coming back the train had to run backwards to Saratoga.  Came on down to Gulfport with no particular trouble.  The Illinois Central, I hear, has two miles washed out, the N.O.& N.E. is not running, and other roads badly damaged.
March 30, 1902
Went photographing along the shore road west of here this afternoon.
April 1, 1902
Today Mr. Thompson and I went up the road to where Pearl River overflows the track.  Almost 4 ½ miles are under water from 6" to 4' or 5' deep.
April 3, 1902
Today Mr. Thompson and I visited a proposed stone quarry site at or below Star.  Took a couple of pictures.
April 6, 1902
Thompson left for Cincinnati, Pittsburg, and I leave today.  This afternoon Driscoll and I went to Mississippi City to get some photos.  The place is not much, and is about dead.
April 12, 1902
Came down to New Orleans this morning, bringing my camera along.  Went out to Audubon Park and Horticultural Hall, obtaining several photos, then returned to Canal St. and took a view along the River, then went to Jackson Square and got one.  Then went to Fabacher’s? Hotel and engaged a room.  Went shopping, bought a suit, straw hat, and various other things.
April 13, 1902
Rainy til about 10:30.  Then went out to old French Market.  Not much going on.  About noon got my camera and went to City Park, then to St. Patrick’s Cemetery, then to Greenwood.  Wanted to get a view in Metarie but was not allowed to use a tripod.  Returned to Canal St. Ferry and crossed the River to Algiers.  Got a view from that side of the River.  Returned and took a view of a steamer along the levee.  This evening attended the First Presbyterian Church.  No collection taken up for a ???.
April 14, 1902
Still dull this morning.  Did a little more shopping, then took my camera and went to the old Basin.  Wanted to get a view in St. Louis Cemetery but was not allowed to.  Went out to St. Rock’s Chapel and Cemetery.  Returning took several street views.  Left on 8 p.m. train for Gulfport.
April 18, 1902
Fourth and fifth days spent on the Laurel Branch measuring up cuts and fills, and today on the Columbia Branch.
April 20, 1902
Staid (sic) around Gulfport, writing letters and printing pictures today.  A very fine day.
April 22, 1902
Went out on the pay car yesterday and today.
April 23, 1902
Came up the Columbia Branch today.  Train almost 2 hours late.  Got off at Alexander by mistake instead of Youngs.  Stay tonight at Lumberton.
April 24, 1902
Went on local freight this morning, intending to get off at Walls and walk back a mile to 63 mile post, but train did not stop and conductor did not get around till some time after, so jumped from train about 66 3/4 mile post as it was going slowly up a grade, and walked back.  Got to Hub tonight, 8.3 miles.
April 25, 1902
Started out a little after 6, reaching Columbia about 10.  Went in a turpentine still and saw turpentine and rosin produced.
April 27, 1902
Driscoll and I went up to Monroe and ??? after some views.  Had a rain about one and one half hours.
April 30, 1902
Went up to Jackson and back.
May 4, 1902
Today Driscoll and I went to Biloxi, taking our cameras along.  Secured a few views.  After returning went out in woods west of Gulfport and got one.
May 8, 1902
Went up to Jackson today.  Less dust than for a long time.  Showers last night.
May 9, 1902
Today went to Laurel.
May 11, 1902
Driscoll and I went out on 9:30 train to Beauvoir, Jefferson Davis’ old house.  Secured a number of views.  It is a fine old place.  Will probably be turned into a confederate soldiers’ home ere long, as means are now being raised for that purpose.  Returned on 3:48 train.
May 14, 1902
Saw two water spouts over near Ship Island today, the first I had ever seen.  They did not last long.
May 16, 1902
Had a terrific wind and rain storm this evening, together with lightening, but little near thunder.  Lightened about every two seconds for an hour.
May 18, 1902
Driscoll and I went to Coat and Saratoga today.  Got a few views.
May 21, 1902
Went out on pay car yesterday and today.  Very hot and dusty.
May 25, 1902
Went to Andrew Thomas’s for dinner.  Supt Morgan and his wife, and Chief Engineer Washington also there, and Mrs Thompson, who boards them.  This afternoon took a three hours sail which was fun.
June 26, 1902
Went to Feagan and walked to Mt. Olive.
June 29, 1902
Today went to Seminary walking to Ola? to see about new rail laid.  Had my camera along and got a few views.  Washington left today to accept position as city engineer of Paducah.
July 4, 1902
Spent today in Gulfport, working most of forenoon.  In the afternoon stopped in at Chas Eaton’s a couple of hours making a very pleasant call.  The day was very quiet here.  Had some friends here in front of the hotel in the evening.
July 8, 1902
This evening there was speaking by two of the candidates for congress from this district, W. H. Hardy and J. Bowers.  Both are nice speakers, and both Democrats.
July 9, 1902
Mr. Thompson returned this evening.  Took supper with him at Jones’s.
July 12, 1902
Went up the road yesterday.  On return were delayed by a freight having a couple of cars off the track above Braxton.  Further down killed a cow.  Between Epps and Elliot ran into a tree that had blown across the track.  Completely derailed the engine, tender and baggage car.  The engine left the track and leaned up against the side of the cut.  Track was torn up and a rail broken.  No one hurt, the engineer and fireman jumping to save themselves.  We did not get away till four o’clock this morning, or until the wreck train arrived from Gulfport, and a passenger followed that closely.  Transferred then and came on down arriving Gulfport past 6:22.  I only slept about ten minutes during the night.
July 13, 1902
Was called in this morning to Jones’s office and after some questioning and conversation I was made Chief Engineer of the G&SI.
July 17, 1902
Third day afternoon, Thompson, Morgan, Marim?, Hale, Koff and myself went up to Jackson in special car.  Next morning came down to Weathersby gravel pit, then by the dirt train taken to Magee, and from there to Saratoga by a freight.  Visited the quarry, etc, then switched on to the Laurel train and went over there and back, and down to Hattiesburg.  Left there about 5 this morning going to Bouie, to look over gravel ground.  Then came on down to Gulfport on No. 1 arriving about 2 hours late.  The tender got partly off the track about 1 ½ miles out.
July 20, 1902
About 9:30 this morning a party gotten up by Capt. Jones went over to Ship Island.  Landed there, spending about a half hour or more.  Then went over to Cat Island but as the water was very shallow for a long way out only Jones, Thompson, and one or two other went ashore.  Got back to Gulfport about 5 o’clock.  Soon after landing a heavy shower came up.  Saw as water spout only a mile or two away.  Had a very pleasant trip.
July 21, 1902
Thompson went home on 11:17 train today.
July 27, 1902
today Haddon?, Driscoll, Brinkley and I went over to Cat Island in the company’s sail boat.  We started at 8:40 with but little wind blowing, which soon freshened.  When part way over a shower to the south of us appeared as if it might come our way, but it passed by, although we got a little of the edge of it.  We put on our bathing suits then to keep our clothes dry.  Arrived at the island at 11, landing at the extreme southeast point.  Walked down the shore a short distance then returned to the boat and ate our lunch which consisted of vanilla wafers, one of cream biscuit, bottle of olives, and a dozen bananas.  Olson had a water melon but did not eat that till in the home trip.  After lunch took some pictures of the party, and waded along the north shore about a mile to some large sand dunes, up which we went, and spent some time getting some views.  These dunes are 50 feet high and composed of fine white sand.  The side away from the Gulf is very steep.  I slid down on. The sand is hard and makes walking easy.  Leaving there walked across to the Gulfside and went in bathing for 15 or 20 minutes, then walked up along the shore to the boat.  The tide had gone down so that the boat was in only 3 or 4 inches of water, so we had to pull it some 600 or 700 feet to get it in water deep enough to sail.  We left at 3:50 and in an hour and a half were in Gulfport.  Had a strong wind from the west so made a straight run not having to tack once.  The water was rough and splashed in a great deal.  Were threatened again by a shower, but it passed by.  Kept our bathing suits on till we got back to Gulfport.  Although it was a cloudy day we all got fearfully sun burnt.
July 30, 1902
Have been up the road the past three days making surveys for sidings at Smith’s Mill, Mendenhall, Magee, Lumberton, and Langfords.  The sun burn is sore, my neck, arms, legs and feet being badly burnt.
August 3, 1902
Invited by Mr Morgan to take dinner with them today, otherwise spent most of the day around the office.
August 5, 1902
Went up to Jackson yesterday, but was delayed by a freight wreck a mile north of Braxton.  It was a head on collision, and both engines were stripped, there are four cars completely demolished, and two or three others damaged.  Only one man hurt, a rib or two broken.  Did not get away from there till after midnight.
August 6, 1902
Went down to Mobile today to see Government Engineers about the channel.  Morgan also going.
August 10, 1902
W. H. Gardner, Jr. from the Jersey Central came today to go to work.  Will place him as assistant engineer at Hattiesburg.
August 12, 1902
Yesterday at Mt. Olive all day, staying in Hattiesburg over night.  Today in Hattiesburg.
August 14, 1902
At the Hattiesburg yard today.
August 17, 1902
Driscoll, Gardner, Haddon and I went out sailing and fishing today.  I caught two catfish and Gardner the same.  I hooked a large fish but the line broke.
August 22, 1902
have been out on the pay car the last three days, arriving here this evening.  Jones was along and the trip was made as an inspection trip also.
September 13, 1902
Cool and windy all day.  Thermometer 63 degrees this morning.
September 14, 1902
Thermometer 57 degrees inside this morning.  On the 1st, moved two houses east of the Gulf View Hotel to R. Morgan’s as they rented that house.  Have very nice accommodations.
Sept ember15, 1902
Thermometer 58 degrees this morning.  A fine day.
October 5, 1902
This morning went up to Wortham and walked back to Lyman, getting pictures of charcoal kilns, sugar cane, wild flowers, and a bridge.  A very fine day.
October 9, 1902
Yesterday and the day before I was up the road, Jackson, Laurel, and Hattiesburg.
October 10, 1902
Had rain all the forenoon, but cleared off towards night.
October 12, 1902
Staid at home today.  A very nice day.
October 15, 1902
2nd day went to Magee and Mendenhall returning to Hattiesburg, staying there that night, the next day and night, coming down this morning.  Last night had a meeting of the hospital association board of which I am a member by means of my position, and was appointed on a committee to see about getting up plans and building a new building.
October 18, 1902
Mr. Thompson came this evening.
October 22, 1902
Went out on pay car 2nd day morning and have been out the last two days.
October 26, 1902
On fifth day started for Memphis on the four o’clock train, in company with Dr. T. E. Ross, B. Mucian?, and R. Morgan, the latter having gone on ahead.  We left Jackson about 12:50 arriving Memphis at 6:30 sixth day morning.  Went to the Gayoso Hotel where we met Mr. Morgan.  Almost nine o’clock started out to visit the hospitals, first calling on Dr. Thornton who planned the city hospital and went there with us showing us all through.  Returned from there to the hotel, getting lunch.  In the afternoon visited the St. Joseph’s Hospital, and were shown around that, after which we went to the Marine Hospital at the south end of the city on the edge of the bluff overlooking the river.  Were shown all in this.  That evening Dr. Ross returned home.  Seventh day morning Marion and I left for Vicksburg about 7:45, about 1 3/4 hours late.  Got supper there I went to the A&V depot, Marion going to visit some friends.  Arrived in Jackson about 10:40.  All rooms at the Lawrence House were occupied so had to take a cot in the parlor.  Came down on 4:35 this morning.  Mr. Morgan left Memphis last night and came down with me.
November 4, 1902
Last fourth day evening the 29th went up to Mendenhall to go across country to look out route for proposed branch line.  Had selected a man Fret B. McCutchon, to take charge of the work.  We left Mendenhall about 7:30 the next morning with the sheriff of Simpson County, E. Magee, as our guide.  About a mile west is a ridge a hundred and more feet high, about which we looked some hours to get a suitable place to cross.  From there a mile beyond stopped for dinner.  We kept down the Strong River Valley to the mouth of Bishop’s Mill Creek.  Returned to Westville to stay over night.  The next morning returned to Strong River and left down the valley to Bush’s Creek 2 ½ miles, then followed it to its head, then passed down the west bank of Silver Creek, crossing from side to side at intervals.  Staid with Daniel Longino, a brother of the Governor of the state at the old homestead.  Next morning returned about a mile and a half up the creek then kept down the east side to opposite Silver Creek P. O., D. L. accompanying us as a guide.  Went across county to Blountville, at which point the Pearl and Leaf River R.R. have their grading, but track still 4 miles out.  Got dinner, then started across towards Hebron, trying to get some one to show us a good way.  Dr. Parker took us two miles up the valley, then a ways up a hollow leading to the summit of the ridge.  Went to Whitesand to H. Griffiths to stay overnight.  Next morning, returned to within 3 miles of Blountville and took the ridge road to Hebron, H. G. acting as our guide half the way or more.  Passed through Hebron about 10:30, and down the valley (east branch of Silver Creek) a short distance then across the ridge and up the same a couple of miles to Waltman’s where we got a good dinner.  From there crossed the west branch of Silver Creek, going up same some distance, then recrossed to junction west of west and middle branches.  Kept up the divide between these and across on the ridge at head of Silver Creek and Rials Creek towards Magee.  Stopped at Dr. Walker’s over night.  Magee left us early 2nd day morning to attend court.  We continued on the divide towards Magee, crossing head of Rial’s Creek and east branch of Silver Creek.  Had also to cross a hollow about 1 ½ miles from Magee.  From Magee kept on west side of R.R. some 4 ½ miles then crossed over.  The road from here to Weathersby is very curved going almost 5 miles to get 2 ½ by the railroad.  Got dinner at Weathersby, then took ridge road west of town to Mendenhall, arriving about 3:15 p.m.  We rode about 115 miles, all on horseback.  I was not near as sore as I expected to be, was getting mostly over it by this time.  Had fine weather the whole trip, frost on some mornings, killing cotton in exposed places.  Got in Gulfport about 10 last night.
November 5, 1902
Mr. Thompson returned here today.
November 20, 1902
Went up to Columbia on 2nd day and hired a team to drive to Silver Creek.  Staid overnight at Oakvale.  Arrived at Silver Creek about noon, met the party there that I had sent out to make the surveys, and went up to the camp at night.  Spent two or three days, until about 1 o’clock this morning when there came a messenger for me to go to Gulfport at once, so left getting to Mt. Olive in time to catch 6:57 train this morning.
November 30, 1902
Returned to Silver Creek camp on the 21st, and came in to Mendenhall on last 5th day, but returned on 6th day, in company with Supt. Morgan and Sheriff Magee to Silver Creek.  Came back to Mendenhall today and on down to Gulfport.  The last few days cold and rainy.  Have had a very fine Fall.
December 2, 1902
Ephriam Vail and his wife came down tonight and I brought them around to the house.  Game him place as Assistant Engineer.
December 4, 1902
Came up to Mendenhall to make preliminary and location surveys for a couple of miles out on the Pearl River Branch.
December 7, 1902
Returned to Gulfport last night.
December 14, 1902
Spent most of the week at Mendenhall going up 3rd day morning.  Went over to the camp fourth day afternoon returning next morning.  Yesterday morning went to Hattiesburg to meet H. S. Jones, Chief Engineer M.J. & K.C. R.R. to ask about their crossing and interlocking plant.  Runyan arrived fifth day evening, and Fred Wilcox yesterday morning.
December 25, 1902
Spent today in Gulfport.
January 1, 1903
Spent today in Gulfport returning to Mendenhall this evening.
Jan 11, 1903
Went over to Silver Creek on Fourth day, spending that night there.  Walked over the line to opposite Hebron, spending Fifth day night there.  The next morning went on to McCutchen’s camp, then returned to Westville, and walked up and down Tanyard Creek and back to camp where I spent the night.  Yesterday afternoon walked in from camp.  Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth day mornings were cold, ice being found, and on the latter the ground badly frozen.  On the 29th of Dec. It was down to 22 degrees and ice half an inch thick was found.
January 13, 1903
Returned to Mendenhall this forenoon.
January 14, 1903
Some little snow during the night.  Went over to camp tonight.  Mr. Morgan going as far as Westville.  Roads very bad.
January 15, 1903
Returned to Mendenhall and came down to Lumberton tonight, meeting Mr. Thompson, Marine?, and Haddon at Maxie.
January 16, 1903
Rainy so came on down to Gulfport this morning.
January 18, 1903
Went down to New Orleans on 3:46 train to do some shopping returning about 10:20.
March 1, 1903
Yesterday Haddon and I moved our room, to a house on 22nd Ave. near 15th St.  Have what was intended for the parlor.  There is no door but curtains hung over the doorway.  No mantel yet put in but the bare brick work.  Last Third day went to Mardi Gras at New Orleans and spent a very nice day.  Took an excursion on the River along the wharves and docks.
March 3, 1903
Today, Lane, Taylor and I drove out about six miles then walked over the line some 4 ½ miles, getting caught in a rain and getting quite wet.  Sent our wagon on ahead to meet us.  On the way home got stuck in a sand hole and broke a double tree so had to walk the rest of the way to Mendenhall, about a mile.  One hind wheel was in under the hub, and the other nearly to the hub.  Front wheels not so deep.
March 26, 1903
Most of the time the last few weeks spent in Mendenhall or on the Silver Creek Branch.  Had a heavy frost last night and the night before.
April 2, 1903
The fore part of the week at Mendenhall and out on the line.  Yesterday in Hattiesburg attending meeting of the Hospital board of directors.
April 4, 1903
Yesterday morning went to Jackson, and from there to New Orleans, arriving about 9:15 p.m.  Went to Fabacher’s to stay overnight.  This morning clod and windy.  Took a trip across the River to see the high water, almost as high as ever known if not the highest.  Below Canal Street sand bags are piled about five feet high on top of the levee, and the water is about half way up that.  Above Canal Street, water is a few inches below top of levee.  Bought a hat, shirt, etc. and came up on 9:25 train arriving Gulfport about 12.
April 11, 1903
Went up to Mendenhall last First day evening.  The next morning Capt. Jones and Morgan followed.  Started out on the line about 1:30, going over it in places to a mile beyond Pinola.  Returned to Westville for the night.  Next morning started out about 6:30 and went to J. C. Bishop’s, and went over this portion of the line.  Went to Shivers and got dinner there, then on to Hebron and out on the line to locate depot there.  Then on to Silver Creek reaching there about 7:45.  Fourth day morning looked around Silver Creek a little and then went to Blountville, looking around some and getting dinner.  Returned and went to Arm, about ten miles for the night, arriving about 7 p.m.  Fifth day morning left about 6:30 and drove a mile and a half in the woods to see about locating depot, then on to McCutchin’s camp, getting dinner there, then on to Columbia arriving about 2:30.  Staid here till 3 o’clock train yesterday making survey and looking over the ground for right of way through the place.  Last night spent in Hattiesburg.
April 18, 1903
Second day morning to Columbia and McCutchon’s camp to stay overnight.  Walked over about 14 miles of line Third day, and on to Silver Creek to stay that night.  Fourth day left Silver Creek about 10:30, and stopped at Thompson’s and Hebron for dinner.  Came to Westville for the night.  Fifth day went over the line from Odom’s to Mendenhall, and remained there that night coming down Sixth day morning.
April 26, 1903
Went to Columbia on pay car on 2nd day morning, then got buggy and went on to McCutchon’s camp where I remained over night.  Next morning stopped at W. J. Armstrong’s awhile and then went on to Silver Creek, stopping at J. M. Armstrong’s for dinner.  Met W. A. Stevenson, general manager Pearl & Leaf River Railroad then locating engineer, King and looked over the ground where they propose to come in to see what can be done towards making joint yard, etc.  Took supper with them.  Fourth day morning came on to Hebron where I met Mr. Morgan, to see about locating Riley’s town and depot.  Staid all night, and started out early for Mendenhall.  Went over most of the grading, getting dinner at Westville.  Arrived Mendenhall about 6 p.m.  I went to Jackson on 9:46 train which was 2 ½ hours late, so did not get in til about 1:30.  6th day morning walked down to Pearl River Bridge, and inspected carefully.  Then back and took Laurel train for the Taylorsville to see about Leaf River Bridge.  Came on down to Gulfport.  Yesterday moved in to a new house along the beach where I had rented.  Ephriam and his wife ??? as well as Connolly and his wife and child.  Connolly is train dispatcher.  Weather very cool the past week.  A little frost one morning up the road.
May 3, 1903
Last First day night went up to Mendenhall and on 2nd day to Leaf River Bridge.  Returning to Mendenhall that night.  Third day went over the work, and came to Gulf.  first Fourth day morning, spending that day here.  Fifth day went out to McCutchon’s camp about 14 miles north of Columbia, spending the night there and returning here on 6th day.  Yesterday visited the Leaf River Bridge.  Are now driving the pile piers for the new bridge.
May 10, 1903
Last Third day went to Mendenhall, and out on the line to Westville.  Fourth day on to Silver Creek, stopping at Hebron a while.  On Fifth day drove to Arm and left horse and buggy and walked over the line as far as located and then on to Columbia about 23 miles all told.  The locating party are now camped at Columbia.  On 6th day staid with party till after dinner, then came on down to Gulfport.  Yesterday went up to see how work was progressing on Leaf River Bridge.
May 17, 1903
Went on to Mendenhall on 2nd day morning to take Mr. Thompson out on the new work going out near ten miles.  Returned to Westville and I walked in to the camp cars.  Left 3rd day morning for Columbia as the location party were through work.  Spent till noon on fifth day looking over things then went to Arm where I staid over night.  Fifth day came on to Silver Creek for dinner, rained most of the forenoon.  Then on to Hebron to see what progress was being made toward laying out the town.  Staid at Riley’s over night, then on to Mendenhall on 6th day and down to Gulfport.  Received a letter from Evangeline yesterday saying Will god drowned in Clear Lake while in bathing on the afternoon of the 7th.  It took nearly two days to recover his body.
May 25, 1903
Was at Mendenhall all day yesterday or rather out on the line, walked about 18 miles.  Came down this morning.
May 30, 1903
Third day evening went up to Hattiesburg, and on over the P&LR the next morning to Blountville.  Met Hale in Hattiesburg, so we came out together.  Drove first to Silver Creek where we met Mr. Morgan, then on to Hebron where we staid over night.  Went over to New Hebron in the morning, then on up the line, and over the new work.  Stopped at W. M. Bush’s for dinner.  Got into Mendenhall so T. P. H. could go down on 4:02 train.  I staid on till yesterday morning.  In Gulfport yesterday and today.
June 6, 1903
Went to Mendenhall last 2nd day night and out over the work on Third day remaining out in Pinola over night.  Rainy on 4th day.  Both days very cool.  Fifth day afternoon went down to New Orleans on 3:45 train.  Went to see Paris’s? “Last Days of Pompeii” in the evening.  Took a room at Fabacher’s hotel.  The next morning bought some things, then came up home, arriving about noon.  Went up to Wiggins this morning.
June 13, 1903
Went to Leaf River Bridge on 2nd day and on to Mendenhall at night.  Third day went with Assistant Paymaster Dunham on the line and as far as Thompson’s and on 4th day on to Silver Creek and back to Mendenhall.  5th out over the work again with R. M., and came down yesterday morning.
June 21, 1903
Last First day evening went up to Hattiesburg remaining over night, then on to Mendenhall Second day morning, and out on the line that day and the next, coming down 3rd day night.  Was here in Gulfport 4th and 4th days then on 6th and 7th days was out on the pay car.
June 28, 1903
Staid in Gulfport on 2nd and 3rd days went up to Mendenhall 4th day morning, and out over the tracks in the afternoon.  Got caught in a heavy shower.  Firth day morning started out at 5 a.m to take R.M. over to Bountsville to catch 7 o’clock train.  I had C. Nelson along to bring back team from Columbia.  From Blountville we went to Oakvale.  When about three miles from Blountville a heavy rain and wind storm came up, which caused us to seek shelter for a half hour.  At Oakvale stopped to see Dr. Stringer about a depot and town site, remaining the afternoon and over night.  Yesterday morning came on in to Columbia, stopping to see W. E. Rogers, about a depot and townsite.  Came on down to Gulfport last night.
July 5, 1903
Went up to Mendenhall 5th day morning and on to Hebron that night to see about the new town.  Went over to the new town in the morning and on back over the work.  Took supper at the camp cars and got back to Mendenhall about 8 p.m.  Yesterday morning went over to the Leaf River Bridge.  They are making fair progress with it.
July 9, 1903
Went to Hattiesburg First day afternoon.  Next morning went to the new hospital, and out to the P.& L.R. and N.O. & N.E. crossing.  Took the ten o’clock train for Meridian, spending an hour and a half, then going on to Chattanooga, Tenn. where I arrived at 10:30.  Put up at the Read House.  The next morning walked around the city a little first getting a guide book, then went north across the Tennessee River bridge, and a mile or so up in Hill City, near Vallambrosa?, then cut across towards Riverside and back to the city by trolley.  Spent some time again in city and then took the trolley for Lookout Mountain Incline.  The ride up the incline by cable was fine but seemed dangerous.  The incline is about 1500 feet long and 1700 feet high.  The last several hundred feet are very steep.  Arriving at the top, I walked to the point from which there is a magnificent view over the city and Tennessee River Valley, although it was quite hazy.  I spent several hours on the mountain, going near Sunset Rock, visiting the Natural Bridge, the war relic museum, etc. which I enjoyed very much.  Walked down the mountain by way of a new road under construction.  Took trolley for the Central Depot where I called to see if a pass had arrived for me, also called at city ticket office for same purpose, but found it had not.  Spent the evening around the city.  Left on 6:30 train the next morning coming straight through to Hattiesburg, and on down to Gulfport.  The country through western Alabama is much more level than I expected and even around Birmingham is not very hilly, the city itself being in a wide flat valley.  From Chattanooga for nearly a hundred miles south the road, the A.G.S., runs along the food of Lookout mountain.
July 10, 1903
Lightening struck a house in Gulfport today, while we were eating dinner.  No one hurt or very much damage done.
July 12, 1903
There is more or less thunder and lightening nearly every day, and some days nearly all day long.  But little close by though.
July 19, 1903
Last Second day morning went over on the Columbia Branch to look over bridges and trestles between Maxie and Lumberton to see about filling in.  Went on up to Mendenhall in the evening, spending 3rd and 4th days there.  5th day went to Magee in the morning and over to Soso in the afternoon, coming down to Gulfport at night.  6th and 7th days spent in Gulfport.  The Gulfport depot burned up about two o’clock on Third day morning.
July 26, 1903
Was out on the pay car on 2nd and 3rd days.  On Fourth day morning went up to Mendenhall, returning 5th day morning.  Yesterday cool and windy, and ???.  Last night was the opening of the Great Southern Hotel.  Had quite a display of fireworks.  I left about 10:15.  Quite a crowd in attendance.  Father left the West on the 1st and returned to Quakertown, taking Wills body with him.  Had burial on the 9th.
August 2, 1903
Gulfport Yacht Club held its first annual regatta yesterday and the day before.
August 9, 1903
Last First day night went to Mendenhall, and out over the line the next day staying at Pinola over night, R. M. coming up on noon train.  3rd day out on the upper end of the work and I came to Silver Creek with Armstrong.  Fourth day morning left Silver Creek about 4:45 and came to Prentiss for train to Hattiesburg.  Went on over to Laurel and then on back home.  Fifth day I went up to Millview and on to Columbia, with Capt. Jones and R. M. on special.  Returned about 3 p.m. Sixth day.  That night went to Mobile with Hale to see about making contact with weather bureau for erecting a signal tower at end of pier.  God home 3:48 train yesterday afternoon.  Had a bad toothache Sixth day evening, all night, and all day yesterday.
August 16, 1903
Last 3rd day went to Hattiesburg to look over new hospital and receive plan, but it was not quite finished.  Also considered about building new freight station.  Fourth day morning went up to Mendenhall with the paymaster to pay off the branch.  God out as far a Pinola that night.  The next morning went on out on the grade, and back to Mendenhall in time to catch train south.  6th and 7th days staid here in Gulfport.
August 23, 1903
On Fourth day was at Hattiesburg to look over and receive the new hospital. 5th and 6th days out with the pay car.
August 30, 1903
Been in Gulfport all the past week.
Sept 5, 1903
Went up to Mendenhall on 3rd day morning and out to Pinola.  Fourth day on to Hebron, and the next day to Silver Creek and return to Hebron, and on 6th day to Mendenhall, coming down this morning.  It has been much cooler this past week, some of the nights being quite cool.
October 4, 1903
A week ago last night I went down to Pass Christian to visit F. B. McCutchon as he had asked me a number of times to come.  I found they were having a family reunion in honor of his Father’s 82 birth day.  On First day I left on the 4 o’clock train for New Orleans, and from this point went to Houston, Texas where I arrived 10:15 a.m Second day, having left N.O. at 9 the night before.  My business was to inspect the electric interlocking signal system now being installed by the Southern Pacific and other companies at that point.  Spent most of the day at the towers.  They were just putting it in operation.  Third day morning left on the Sunset Limited at 6:30, arriving in New Orleans about 6:50.  A pleasant ride through Texas and Louisiana.  It is prairie country most of the way.  Fourth day night went to Mendenhall, and over the line to Silver Creek returning this morning.
October 11, 1903
This afternoon took the train for Long Beach and walked back to Gulfport along the shore.
October 21, 1903
Last 3rd day went to Mendenhall, and on the following day over the line and as far as Thompson’s with the paymaster.  5th day on to Silver Creek, and back to Mendenhall, arriving at 7:30.  While at Silver Creek, received telephone message to return to Gulfport not later than 6th day morning to go to Louisville.  Hence came down on No. 1 on 6th day.  Capt. Jones, R. Morgan and S. D. Boylston left on 11:19 train for Louisville.  Got as far as Birmingham by dark.  In the Birmingham yard, about a mile south of the station, a switch had been left open, and we ran in to a switch engine, and forced that in the rear end of a freight train.  The caboose raised up and one end rested on the boiler of the switch engine.  Both engines were pretty badly damaged.  No one seriously hurt.  Our Pullman conductor was thrown against a seat and had his hip hurt.  I was just getting in bed.  We were delayed about two hours.  Arrived in Nashville about six on 7th day morning nearly three hours late.  They did not run the train on through but waited till 7:50 for the next regular train and attached the cars to that.  In the meantime R. M. and I walked around Nashville some.  He was raised there, so could show me around.  We arrived at Louisville at 12:50 and were met at the station by First Vice President Hinds and General Manager Evans of the L&N and taken to the Pendennis Club for lunch.  Also had the company of Compton and another man from the traffic department.  Leaving here we all went to the office of the President of the L&N to discuss traffic matters, settle the depot question and interlocking plant at Gulfport.  We had expected to leave that night, but found we could not leave till 2nd day night, so put up at the Louisville Hotel.  First day morning I took the eight o’clock train for Mammoth Cave, arriving there a little after 12.  From Glasgow Jct on the L&N a railroad runs to the cave, eight and a half miles, fare, one dollar each way.  This road is very crooked and hilly, as the country is rough.  After dinner about two o’clock went in the cave, in company with a party of thirteen that had driven over from an adjoining county.  We took the long route, going in nine miles.  Took a boat ride on Echo River.  Passed through the Fat Man’s Misery, Purgatory, etc, and on the return trip the Corkscrew.  It was about 9:30 when we got out.  Coming through the Corkscrew cut off a mile and a half on the return trip, making 16 ½ miles in all.  I was not much tired.  The entrance fee for the long route is $3.00.  The next morning I walked down to the banks of Green River about a half mile from the entrance to the cave.  At nine o’clock left to return to Louisville, where I arrived at 12:50.  After dinner R. M. and I took a trip over the Ohio River into New Albany and Jeffersonville, m first time in Indiana.  We left on 9:40 train for Memphis, where we arrived about 9:10 or 3rd day arriving an hour late.  Concluded to stay here all day as the train being late could not make connections in Jackson.  In the afternoon crossed over the Mississippi into Arkansas, my first time in that state also.  In the evening I spent almost three hours in the public library, then went to the station and after waiting a while got in the Gulfport sleeper and went to bed.  It was due to leave at 11:10 but was near three o’clock when the train that takes it arrived.  Came on through to Gulfport, arriving a little after two.   Had a very pleasant trip although I couldn’t sleep well on the train, particularly between Louisville and Memphis, as I had an upper berth, and the road was so crooked and rough, and the train ran so fast that I was afraid of being thrown out.
November 22, 1903
Some cold weather the past week, coldest for this time of year since records have been kept.  Fifth day morning my thermometer in my room was 30 degrees and ice found in my slop bucket.  Sixth day morning was nearly as cold.  Ice formed on still bowls of water.  Was out in the pay car the last two days.
December 20, 1903
Went to Mobile last Fifth day to see the light house engineers about beacon in the channel.  Made some Christmas purchases.  Took dinner at the Great Southern for the first time.
December 25, 1903
Went out on the pay car on 2nd day, and out on the Branch up till last night.  A fine day yesterday, but rainy today.  I have received the following Christmas presents, two cotton handkerchiefs, one silk handkerchief, two towels and two wash rags from Eph. and Eva, a calendar, tie, and pair of suspenders from Father and Evangeline, a tie, two linen handkerchiefs, and tie pin from James and Allien, a linen clothes bag from Aunt Emma, a Christmas card from Aunt Jeanette, and a box of pecans from F. B. McCutchin, and a small toilet case from W. E. Clark.  Also a memorandum book from Fred Starks.
December 26, 1903
Today received a silk handkerchief from Annie Banks and a tie pin from Chas. E. Vail.
December 28, 1903
Today received a scale from Fred B???.  Yesterday and today has been fun.
January 1, 1904
Worked in the office all day, except went to Mt. Olive on 4 o’clock train.
January 2, 1904
Was on the road and over to Laurel today.  Rainy in a.m., quite cold by night.
January 3, 1904
Cold and windy today.
January 10, 1904
On Second day evening went to Hattiesburg, and the next morning up to Mendenhall.  R. M. also going.  Went directly out to the end of the track, and staid at I. C. Alexanders’ camp over night.  Fourth day went to Silver Creek and back to Thompson’s at night.  Fifth day returned to Pinola, and on to Mendenhall, and back home.  Did not get in till midnight as there had been a head end collision between a work train and wreck train.  Both engines quite badly damaged, and one or two cars totally.  Two or three men hurt, one of which I heard afterward had died.  Third day morning was bout the coldest this year.  Ground frozen quite hard and all ponds frozen over.
January 17, 1904
Clark and I went over to Biloxi on 11:17 train.  We walked around the place a good deal taking in most of the town.  Had a magnificent day.
January 23, 1904
Went out on the pay car on Fourth and Fifth days, and attended a meeting of the Hospital Association at Hattiesburg, 6th day.  Very windy on 4th and 5th days and heavy storm on 5th day night.  Great damage in Alabama.
January 30, 1904
Last Third day evening went to Mendenhall.  It had gotten cold during the night and things were pretty well frozen up in the morning.  Started to walk out to Pinola, but met the engine.  Went on out on that and clear to the front; returning to Pinola a little before noon.  After dinner in company with R. H. Adams, I started out for Hebron going by the grading, so as to look over that.  It was a cold chilly and cloudy day.  That night about eight o’clock it began to sleet and snow, and the next morning there was 4 inches of snow on the ground.  We started out for Silver Creek going by New Hebron, and stopping at Grange for dinner.  Continued our trip, but found there had not been as much snow at Silver Creek as at Hebron.  As it was melting an great deal the roads were very sloppy.  Returned to Hebron where we staid again that night.  Sixth day evening it was cold with a little wind from the north.  All he puddles were covered with half an inch or more of ice.  The farther north we went the thicker we found the snow, being eight or nine inches at Pinola.  It was a cold disagreeable ride, and the roads were very heavy.  Went in from Pinola on the train and up to Jackson.  There had been as much snow there, too.  None of any account fell south of Hattiesburg.  It is stated that it was the biggest snow in twenty five years.
January 31, 1904
On the 9:31 train, several of the other railroad officials, a couple of lumbermen and myself went to Mississippi City and on to Handsboro, and there took the launch “Grace” which had been sent around the day before, and went up Bayou Bernard to where we are building a branch line, where we got out and looked around.  Then at noon we started on our return trip, and went all the way down the bayou, and the whole length of the Back Bay of Biloxi, and out in the Sound and home that way.  It made a very nice trip.  A part of the way the Sound was very rough.  Arrived at Gulfport about 5:30.
February 2, 1904
Went to Hattiesburg last night and staid this forenoon then went to New Orleans, and came up this evening.
February 5, 1904
Fourth day morning went to Hattiesburg to see P&LR RR profile, came down on our No. 1 which was over 3 hours late.  Went up again in the evening but was ??? for so returned.  Yesterday morning went up with Capt. Jones, R. Powers, J. H. Thompson to the Silver Creek Branch.  Were shoved out to the end of the track where we remained about an hour when we returned to Mendenhall and spent the night, coming down this morning.
February 14, 1904
I am 36 years old today.
February 17, 1904
Went to Mardi Gras at New Orleans yesterday and had a pleasant trip.  Got back at two o’clock this morning.  The parades were fine.
March 2, 1904
Last Second day spent out on the Branch.  Went up to Jackson and to Durant and over to Starkville to see about an electric road, staying there 2nd day night and most of 3rd day.  Starkville is quite a nice place.  Is the County seat of Oktibbeha county and the Agricultural and Mechanical College is located there.  There are a number of quite nice buildings, some large ones.  The word is projected to run between the town and college, about 1 ½ miles.  Professor Ard, showed me over the ground.  Left Starkville about 4, arriving Durant 9:20, staid there till about four this morning then came on down on No. 1.
March 6, 1904
Was out on the Branch the last three days, going over the contract work.  Had some warm weather the first part of the week, but cold on 6th and 7th days.
March 13, 1904
Last Second day evening went to Hattiesburg.  Third day made arrangements for and took a train of track material to Silver Creek over the Pearl & Leaf Rivers Railroad.  Left Hattiesburg about one o’clock and arrived Prentiss about seven.  Had 13 cars and a new engine which the road is trying.  Twice it ran out of steam, and three times had to take a second run at grades.  Had to get wood three or four times.  All of their trains use wood.  At Prentiss we waited till the passenger train came, then just on five of the cars and carried to near Silver Creek.  The next afternoon returned to Hattiesburg over the P&LR and met Capt. Jones in the evening and went on up to Mendenhall, where the car was placed on a siding for the night.  Fifth day morning we went out to the end of the track on a gasoline motor car, which the company has recently bought.  Walked to near the end of the grading.  Returned to Mendenhall in time to catch the down train.  Went on to Hattiesburg, and staid over night to meet the Board of Trade and other railroad users to confer about having a Union Station.  Came down 6th day night.
March 20, 1904
In the office all the week except over to Lumberton on 2nd day to see about connection with the N.O.& N.E., and out on Silver Creek Branch yesterday.  Our new General Superintendent came in the evening of the 17th.  His name is Geo F. Gardner from the B&RP.  R. M. resigned at the end of last month.
April 3, 1904
Was in Gulfport most of the week.  On the 31st went up on the Laurel Branch in Sullivan’s Hollow region looking up a supposed gravel pit.  Went on up to Jackson.  Today I went around to the Catholic Church, the first time I had ever attended regular services in one.
April 4, 1904
Quite cool again this morning.  Thermometer in our room 49 degrees.
April 10, 1904
Cool this morning.  Thermometer in my room 53 degrees.  Clark and I went over on 10:17 train to Biloxi, and walked from there to Ocean Springs, crossing the Back Bay and going a long distance out in the country to get around some inlets, altogether not far from ten miles.  Got dinner at Ocean Springs Hotel and ten went down along the shore.  There are some very moss covered oaks.  Walked along the shore up to half a mile above the L&N bridge.
April 17, 1904
Cool again this morning.  Thermometer 53 degrees.  No rain last night.  Clark and I went again to Ocean Springs, taking my camera along, and got a number of views along the shore.
April 25, 1904
Left Gulfport for the North on 7th day at 11:30 by way of Cincinnati, by L&N and B&OSW and B.O.  Reached Montgomery about dark, with all vegetation out in full leaf and flower.  Woke up next morning at Bowling Green, Kentucky, and the signs of Spring were not numerous.  Did not take a sleeper.  Arrived in Cincinnati at noon, had 15 minutes to get a ticket and make connections.  Had to change outside Cincinnati at Latonia, as the L&N does not run to the Central Union Station.  The ride from Louisville to Cincinnati was mostly through a rough but picturesque country.  Reached Parkersburg about dark.  Part of the way through Ohio the road runs through a nice level farming country, but later gets in a hilly and rough section, passing through coal regions.  Crossed the N&W at Chillicothe at which point I had been some years ago, 1896, on that road.  After leaving Parkersburg took sleeper as far as Washington, arriving about seven in the morning.  Waking about Point of Rocks, Maryland.  In Washington laid over until one o’clock.  Walked around by the Congressional Library, the Capitol, National Museum, Smithsonian Institution and Washington Monument, at which point I met a young man from Branchville, N.J. Ervin Rec.  We went over to the Treasury and War and Navy departments, in the White House and back to the monument and up in that.  Walked down, through.  Returned to Pennsylvania Ave. and made a few purchases and went to station.  Arrived in Philadelphia about four o’clock.  Went over to Wannamaker’s a few minutes, then out to Swarthmore on 5:16 train.  Howard had moved his office so could not find him.  Aunt Annie is here, but Florence is visiting Sandy Hook.  Howard got here shortly after I arrived.
April 26, 1904
Florence W. Green is just one year old today.  Staid at Swarthmore till 1:33 train then came in to Philadelphia.  Called at Howard’s office there in Wanamaker’s a little while and to Uncle Thomas’s old office but not finding him in went on down to Woodbury about 5 o’clock.  Met Albert’s wife Lizzie and daughter Jeannette, the first time I had ever seen them, also Mary’s husband Henry Schmidt, as I had never seen him.  Spent a very pleasant evening.
April 27, 1904
Left about two o’clock the next morning for Philadelphia.  After buying few things left on 12:01 train for Stockton.  Eugene got on at Lambertville, and went with me.  Went to Mason’s store and telephoned for Uncle Sam to come down, which he did.  It had been cold and rainy.  Aunt Viecie? Was quite complaining.
April 28, 1904
Aunt Viecie? was unable to get up this morning, having so many vomiting spells.  Dr. Fritz came about noon and gave her something that quieted her, so that she felt better.  Eugene and I walked down for the 1:43 train, and he went with me as far as Lambertville.  Came on up to Flemington where I had two hours to wait.  Met Bash? Culver, Asa Bowman, and Jos. Matthews.  Came on up to Pittstown where father met me.  Met Will Tharp and Amy Leance? at Landsdown.  Went over to the farm where father and Evangeline are staying.
April 29, 1904
Staid around the farm all the forenoon and went up to my place in the afternoon with father, and looked over the trees, and fixed things up some in the garret and back room.
April 30, 1904
In the afternoon went up to my place and moved our things from the back room to the room back of the kitchen and did some other things.
May 1, 1904
Around the house all the forenoon.  In the afternoon Lou and Luie Potts called and staid awhile.  Morris and Cora Leaver came about five and staid for supper and spent the evening.
May 2, 1904
This afternoon Father and I called at Howard Vail’s, Will Scott’s, John Trent’s, and Morris Leaver’s.  Over to Lou Pott’s this morning.
May 3, 1904
Went up to my place this morning to get measurements of the house etc. to see about fixing up the place.
May 4, 1904
Left on 7:15 train for Bound Brook, from which place I took the trolley to Plainfield.  Called at Chas. Vail’s store first then around to the silk mill to see Eugene, spending the forenoon there with him, and went with him for dinner.  After dinner called on Aunt Phoebe, and Marietta Adams, Rachel was not at home.  Called on Sadie Hutchinson, Aunt Maria’s.  She has totally lost her memory so she knows no one any more, but seems well physically.  Went to Kymer’s, and saw Aunt Sara Laing, and from there to Whitalls?, but saw only Mary and Lillian.  Called at Adelbert Vail’s before going to Aunt Maria’s.  Several of the children were down with the measles.  Went to Mr. Thompson’s but he was not at home.  Went home with Charles Vail for supper.  In the evening went around to Jenkins’s, Eva’s mother’s, then almost nine took trolley for Cranford.  Found James and Allien? waiting for me.
May 5, 1904
Spent today at Cranford, taking a walk around the place in the afternoon.
May 6, 1904
Went I to New York about 8:30, and went direct to Wood Harmun & Company’s office to see about going out to see my lots.  Another man was expected in a little later to go, so I went out awhile, then returned, and after waiting awhile he came in and we left, crossing the Brooklyn Bridge by trolley, and going to a side street leading to Plymouth Church to an automobile stable, after being there awhile got ready and started out.  Went to my property first.  Found it is very nicely situated, lying about 1 ½ feet above the street level.  Street is not entirely graded, but sidewalk is down.  Trolley only a short distance from lots.  Then went down the Ocean Parkway to near Coney Island to show the other man some South Marlboro property.  Had a very pleasant trip.  Went through Prospect Park both ways.  Returning to the City, called on Fred Bosworth a few minutes, then over to the Central RR. offices in Jersey City.  Returning bought a suit of clothes and made some other purchases, and got supper at a Physical Culture Restaurant.
May 7, 1904
Woke up this morning at Hancock, Maryland.  Left New York last night at 7.  Had a fine ride all day.  The scenery through West Virginia and Maryland is fine.  Arrived in Cincinnati at 5:35 and left on L&N at 6.
May 8, 1904
Arrived in Gulfport 6:19 almost on time.  Had a pleasant ride today, although quite warm.  Woke up this morning in Southern Tennessee, so saw the country from there to Birmingham in day time.
May 15, 1904
Was up on the Branch the last three days.
May 22, 1904
Was out on the pay car yesterday and the day before.
June 4, 1904
Went up on the Branch, Silver Creek end 3rd and 4th days.  The balance of the week in the office.  Had a postal from Father a few days ago mailed in Salt Lake City, while on his way to Vancouver.
June 9, 1904
Went up to Mendenhall on 3rd day evening meeting Gardner and Boyleston on Car 100.  Went out over the Branch yesterday.  Came down to Gulfport last night.
June 12, 1904
Attended some revival services in a tent this forenoon.  This afternoon Clark and I went to Bay St. Louis, and took in most of the town, getting supper at Pickwick’s hotel.  It is not near as nice a place as the other towns along the coast.
June 26, 1904
Went out on the pay car on 2nd day and stopped off at Hattiesburg.  Third day went out on the Miss. Central to Silver Creek and from there on to Hebron, where I staid over night.  The next day went over the work and in to Mendenhall.  Fifth day morning went to Mish and then back to Mt. Olive and above to see J. A. McNair about some right of way, being driven by Elkins from Mish.  Went to Saratoga and took noon train for Magee.  On evening train came down to Pickering and returned to Collins for the night.  Came down to Gulfport Sixth day morning, but returned to Pickering for the night to settle up some right of way matters.  Came back down to Gulfport yesterday morning.  Ephriam and Eva went home a week ago last night, and today had a postal from them stating they arrived all right on Third day morning, finding all well.
July 4, 1904
Last Third day made a preliminary survey at Star for a lint to a stone quarry and on 7th for a line to our Maxie gravel pit.  Yesterday Clark and I went to New Orleans.  Visited Audubon Park, West End, the Barracks and a part of the I. C. Terminals along the river.  Right pleasant day.  Staid in the office most of the day today, writing letters, etc.
July 9, 1904
Went to Palmer Fourth day morning and then on to Laurel and back over our road to Hattiesburg.  Capt Jones and Mr. Gardner came up that night, so on Fifth day we went to Silver Creek over Mississippi Central R.R. and after dinner took team to end of track at New Hebron, where we were met by C. L. Marsh with hand car, on which we went to Bush.  Rode construction train to Pinola, got supper there, and went on to Mendenhall and up to Jackson.  Sixth day morning came down to Hattiesburg for hospital meeting.  In the afternoon came on down on motor car, leaving about two and arriving 7:45.  Got caught in shower at McLauren.
July 13, 1904
First day night went to New Orleans on 6:19 train.  Put up at St. Charles Hotel.  Left on 7:45 train on Southern Pacific for Bowie, La. to see about red pecky cypress trees.  Returned arriving N. O. 5:45, went to office of President and General Manager of the lumber company, and went on to supper with them.  Came up on train arriving Gulfport about 10:30.  Yesterday morning went to Young to see about grading, then on to Lumberton.  McElrath, our team grading contractor took me over.  Went to N. O. on 1:24 train, bought suit clothes and several smaller articles.  Returned Gulfport 9:30.
July 17, 1904
Around the office all the forenoon.  Took dinner with Eph. And Eva.  Walked to Mississippi City along the beach and came back on 6:30 train.  A fine day with strong breeze all day.
July 24, 1924
Went over on the Silver Creek Branch 5th day returning 6th day.  Today went to Scranton on 11:15 train, returning 3:31.
July 31, 1904
Went over to Silver Creek last 2nd day, and to Grange for the night.  3rd day went on to Pinola, going over all the work.  Fourth day morning came in to Mendenhall to catch 5:43 train, which had pulled out of the station before we got there, but stopped for me.  Yesterday and the day before was held the annual regatta of the Gulfport Yacht Club.  Five days for it, too.  Staid around the office most of the day.  Took dinner with Eph and Eva.  Clark and I had expected to go to see Logan, who is ill with typhoid fever, but his parents said he was too sick for anyone to see him, last Second day night they had about given him up.  At last account he was a little better.
August 2, 1904
Yesterday, Gardner, Marim, and myself started for a trip over the road on the motor car, leaving 7:40.  At McHenry we held up quite a while on account of rain.  We started agin and got caught again before getting to Ten Mile, where we waited quite awhile.  We got as far as Baxterville for dinner.  Just as we finished it rained hard, and continued for a half hour or more.  After the rain stopped we tried to start the car but had a good deal of trouble, and finally found the frame was broken, so G.F.S. and I came back on the train, while Marim and Jordan run it home.
August 7, 1904
This afternoon I walked along the shore to Beauvoir returning by train.  Took dinner with Eph. and Eva.
August 17, 1904
Fourth day night went to Jackson with Gardner and Marion and the next morning started out on the motor car.  Came to Mendenhall then went over the Silver Creek Branch to near the end of track.  Staid over night at Magee.  Sixth day morning started out to go over the Laurel Branch.  Got as far as Mize when the babbiting in the front end of the main rod broke, so had to rebabbit the same.  At the same time a car in freight train had been derailed just east of Mize.  As it was afternoon before the track was cleared all but myself returned an came on down.  I went to Service to see about station, etc, and back to Mt. Olive as train missed connections.  The engine had only one side running, so lost time.
August 16, 1904
Last 7th day night Clark and I started to Hickory to see Logan, as he had improved some.  Went to Hattiesburg and to Meridian on the N.O. & N.E. arriving at 1:20 a.m.  Put up at Grand Avenue Hotel.  Had to stay till 11:0r when we took train on A&V to Hickory, arriving about noon.  Found Logan too weak to sit up, and with still some fever, and very thin.  He was very glad to see us.  We left a little after 5, returning to Meridian, and staying till early in the morning.  Train did not leave till about 4:45, one hour forty-five minutes late.  I went up to Mendenhall and out the Branch with Marion and down again last night.
August 20, 1904
Went out on Silver Creek Branch 5th day morning staying at Hattiesburg the night before and going on the Miss. Cent.  Went as far as Grange, staying there over night, and then on to Hebron, to catch 9:10 train to Mendenhall.  We started regular service to this point on the 8th, although the hills are not down yet.  Went to Jackson 6th afternoon returning to Gulfport that night.  Ephriam is laid up and has been for some days, and will be yet for a little while.  Was over this evening.
August 28, 1904
Was out on the Silver Creek Branch yesterday and the day before.
August 30, 1904
A very rainy day, the worst? We have had in a year I think.
September 3, 1904
Fourth day, I went to Laurel.  Fifth day morning G.F.G., B.M., myself went out on a motor car with Jordan to run it.  The car was a road automobile fitted with railroad tires outside of the pneumatic tires.  Went over to Columbia, getting dinner there.  God caught in several showers each way.  On way home at Ten Mile we had to wait awhile for No. 6, and also to fix the machine.  Between McHenry and Perry it play out again, and again at Saucier.  A half mile below it played out again, and again another half mile.  Couldn’t do anything with it, so pushed it back near a mile to Saucier.  I went up on No. 2 to Jackson, and yesterday morning down to Mendenhall and out over C. D. Smith’s work.  Staid at Pinola over night and started out from there 3:30 this morning and walked in to Mendenhall to catch No. 1.
September 21, 1904
I start for St. Louis tonight to be gone till next Second day.
September 22, 1904
Arrived in St. Louis about 6:40 on Fifth day evening.  Went to the Christian Endeavor Hotel and got a room in there went in the Exposition grounds for two hours.  Took ride on Intramural railroad and ride on basin whirls? On launch.  The lighting at night is fine.
September 27, 1904
Visited a number on this day, registering at the Mississippi building which is a duplicate of Beauvoir and at the New Jersey Building which is a duplicate of Washington’s Headquarters at Morristown.  Went in the Pennsylvania building to see the Liberty Bell.  Visited several of the scenes in the mining gulch.  Walked through Educational building then went to Festival Hall to hear Guilment? of Paris play the large organ.  From here went to the Electricity and Machinery Buildings and then to Jerusalem.  This latter I though very interesting, showing so many things in connection with the times of Jesus.  While there I took a ride on a camel.  In the evening spent a short time in the art galleries, then went to the Pike, where I took in two or three of the shows.
September 23, 1904
Went to the Horticultural Building, first, then through the Agricultural Building, from there going into the Philippine  where I spent two hours or more.  Visited several of the Philippine villages and saw natives at work or dancing.  Saw the Visayans, Igorrotes, and Negritos.  These latter two were about naked.  Leaving the Philippines walked through the Canadian Forestry Building, Ceylon Building and then the U. S. Forestry Building.  Owing to heavy rain I was in there much longer than I expected to be.  Then went to the Transportation Building where I spent some time, then walked through the Manufactures, Liberal Arts, and the Varied Industries buildings to the Government Building, where I staid till it closed.  Put some time in the Mines and Metalling Building.  In the evening visited the Pike taking in the Tyrolean Alps, Aviation, Hereafter, Mysterious Asia,  Katzenjammer Kids, Constantinople, Magic Whirlpool.
September 25, 1904
Went down town in the morning and looked around some, and went to a Methodist Church near the station.  Left on the 1:15 train.
September 26, 1904
Arrived all safe and sound after a very enjoyable but tiresome trip.
October 15, 1904
On the 11, 12, and 13th, went out on an inspection trip over the whole road, with Capt. Jones, R. E. Powers, Jackson, G. F. Gardner, J. H. Thompson and B. Mason.  Had a pleasant trip.  Yesterday had a meeting of the Hospital Association at Hattiesburg.
October 17, 1904
Went up on Columbia Branch today, to see about change of line beyond Lumberton.
October 23, 1904
In the office nearly all the week.  Clark went to St. Louis Fourth day morning.  Today L. W. Kolbe, my draftsman, and I got a sail boat and started almost ten o’clock for Cat Island but the wind died out or was so slight that we did not get over 2/3 of the way there.  Turned around and came home getting in at 5.  Had to row the last mile.  Had a very pleasant day.  Nice and clear but rather cool.
October 30, 1904
Was out on the Silver Creek Branch this past week buying right of way between Silver Creek and Columbia.  Closed up about ten or twelve pieces.  Had pleasant weather.
November 2, 1904
Left Gulfport last night and arrived at St. Louis about six this evening.  Went on out to the Christian Endeavor Hotel and after getting a lunch went in the Fair Grounds and on the Pike.  Took in the Galveston Flood and the Cliff Dwellers, and Under and Over the Sea.
November 3, 1904
Today visited the Metal Pavilion, Cement exhibit, Fisheries and Government buildings, the large bird cage, the Missouri, Washington, New Jersey, West Virginia, and Texas state building, the gold stamp mill, the Savannah building, educational building.  In the early evening spent a while on the Pike then went to Festival Hall to hear concert by the Berlin Band which was certainly fine.
November 4, 1904
Today went through the Mines and Metalling building, visited the Model City going up in the wireless telegraph tower, went through Manufacturers, Varied Industries, and Liberal Arts buildings and spent some time in the Transportation Building.  This evening was spent in the Electricity building.
November 5, 1904
Visited the steam fuel and gas building and spent the rest of the forenoon in the Transportation Building.  In the afternoon visited, Mexico, Siam, Guatemala, Nicaraugua, Brazil, Great Britain, France, Sweden, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Japan, Morocco, Alaska, and Forestry buildings.  Also the German Railroad exhibit.  Also the China and Indian buildings.  Visited the Administration building and saw Queen Victoria Jubilee presents and the Ethnological exhibit.  At dark went to the Pike and took in Hagenbeck’s trained animals.  At seven attended another concert in Festival Hall by the Berlin Band, which was fine.  After the concert returned to the Pike making several purchases.
November 7, 1904
Left St. Louis yesterday at 1:15.  At Memphis found the Gulfport sleeper had been taken off.  At Jackson missed connections, so went on to New Orleans and came up on the Coast train.
November 13, 1904
Fourth day evening went to Mendenhall and the next morning to Silver Creek, from where after dinner Armstrong and I went to Arm where we staid over night.  Sixth day settled up three right of way cases and saw about some more.  Went to Columbia, staying there that night, and the next day till 3 o’clock, but could not close up any deals.  Today took dinner at the Great Southern with H. C. Hodges.
November 20, 1904
Third day morning we started out on an inspection trip over the road.  The party was composed of Capt. Jones, Judge Neville, Supt. Gardner, and myself.  Went to Columbia and back to Hattiesburg where we staid over night.  Fourth day went to Mendenhall, then to Silver Creek and return and on to Jackson.  Fifth day Jackson to Laurel, back to Saratoga and home, arriving about 7:40.  Marion was sick so could not go.  This afternoon Clark and I took a walk north of the L&N Railroad to Long Beach, and back along the shore.  A fine day.
December 4, 1904
Have been in the office most of the last two weeks, although on 6th day went to Mendenhall and out on the work a few miles.  On second day at Mish to lay out new station, and on Fourth day at Hattiesburg and over the Laurel Branch.  Rainy but warm today.  Hodges and Mimms, Bowles and Hemingway, and D. C. McInnis were in to see me.
December 11, 1904
Was in the office most of the week, but on the Silver Creek Branch on Fifth day, returning via the M. C. R.R.  The Methodist Conference was held here this week, intended to attend church this morning but was in Captains office till too late.  Went this evening, though.
December 13, 1904
Coldest morning this winter.  Thermometer in my window was 37 degrees.
December 16, 1904
Went up to Mendenhall Fourth day, and out to Silver Creek Fifth day morning stopping off at Hodges Shovel.  Walked down over the line some six or seven miles and staid at F. M. Garratt’s whom I wanted to see about right of way.  J. M. Armstrong came down the next morning, and after a good deal of talking we closed the matter up.  At eleven we left and went to Monticello to the opening of the Branch Line of Railroad to that place.  It was a cold windy day.  Returned to Silver Creek and went on to Mendenhall where I staid over night coming down this morning.  Ice found in all the puddles of water last night.
December 18, 1904
Went down to New Orleans o 3:30 train returning 10:30 last night.  Cold this morning.  My thermometer about 31 degrees at 6:30 a.m.
December 20, 1904
F. B. McCutchen came up today and brought along a box of pecans and some pecan candy.
December 21, 1904
Went up to Wortham this morning to test an Artesian well we are having drilled.  It flowed 25 gallons per minute 36 feet above ground.

Went up to Columbia night before last, returning this morning.  Closed up three pieces of right of way.  Received a Christmas card from Aunt Jeannette and a steel rule and paper cutter from Merchant & Co., Philadelphia.  Warm day today.
December 27, 1904
Last Seventh day went to Jackson on 4 p.m. train, staying til 9:55 the next morning taking there the A&V train to Newton, arriving about 12:10.  Clark met me there, and I went home with him and also Lewis.  Dr. Clark another Brother had also come on the same train.  It was very warm, like spring.  Second day morning, came to Newton to catch M.J. & K.C. train at ten, which I did, and came down to Laurel, where I remained til 4:50, then coming on to Hattiesburg and home.  Clark left Newton at 12:10 went to Meridian and came on down.  Met at Laurel.  I had a very pleasant trip.  The Clarks live out in the country about four miles from Newton, northeast from the town.  It is an old country house.  The following Christmas presents have been received: a photograph album from Aunt Annie and Florence, “Touring Alaska and the Yellowstone,” two pairs socks, and a tie from Evangeline, ten dollars from Father, a Christmas card from Aunt Emma, a tie from A. M. Logan, a book os Sherlock Holmes stories from Fred Bosworth.  A burnt? leather case from Fred Starks, a box of letter paper, a photograph of Eph. And Eva, and a box of candy from Eph and Eva, and a Christmas card and a tie pin from Mrs. Patten.  The First National Bank sent out a pocket memorandum book, and I also got a desk memorandum pad from the American Valve and Meter Co.
December 27, 1904
Warm and rainy this morning but cleared off and is cold this evening.
December 30, 1904
Went to Hattiesburg Fourth day morning, and then over to Laurel, and back to Hattiesburg, and up to Mendenhall.  5th day went to Silver Creek and back and looked around the overhead bridge at Mendenhall, coming down at night.  Cold both days, a good deal of frost and ice.  A little warmer today.
January 2, 1905
Yesterday Clark and I went to Hattiesburg to see A. M. Logan and the rest of the family.  Had a very pleasant day.  A. M. will be healthy enough to return to work by 15th I think.
January 7, 1905
Went to Mendenhall 4th day night, and over to Silver Creek 5th day.  Came in to Hattiesburg on Mississippi Central R.R. and on down to Gulfport.  6th day went to Columbia.  I received the following additional Christmas and New Year’s presents.  A folding steel pocket rule and 5 foot steel pocket tape from the Virginia Bridge & Iron Works.  Some days ago received nice leather pass and card case from the Union Switch & Signal Co.  Today received a box from James and Allien containing a silver pencil, a china collar button holder, pair of garters, and a paper mache’ roast turkey filled with candy.
January 8, 1905
Went home with Eph last evening and took supper.   Also went there for dinner today.  Took a walk to Mississippi City this afternoon.
January 13, 1905
Went up the road Fourth day morning and over to Grange at night.  Rain and thunder and lightening all night.  Went over on to Silver Creek, and out Mississippi Central R.R. and down home last night.  One or two small washouts on main line above Lux.
January 15, 1905
Our coldest morning.  Ther. 32 degrees at 8:30 Last night 35 degrees at 9:30.  Wind all night and day.  Took a walk through Gulfport, North Gulfport, and over towards Bayou Bernard, in all about 7 or 8 miles.  Attended Baptist Church this evening.
January 16, 1905
Ther 25 degrees at 7 a.m.  33 degrees last night at 9:30.   A good deal of ice.  Logan starts in work again today, after having been off for over six months due to typhoid fever.
January 17, 1905
Came up to Mendenhall last night.  Very cold this morning.  Do not think it can be much above 20.  Out to Silver Creek and down over the work south of Silver Creek this afternoon.
January 18, 1905
Came in to Mendenhall this morning and went on up to Jackson, coming down this evening.  Much warmer.
January 22, 1905
A right pleasant day.  This afternoon, Clark, McIntosh, and myself went up to Landon, and walked across to Mississippi City and home along the shore road, arriving a little before seven o’clock.
January 24, 1905
Went to Sanford yesterday to run location to gravel pit property.  Rained a good deal in the forenoon, so we got quite wed.  This morning I received a notice from Capt. Jones that my resignation would be accepted , so went down to see him and had a long talk with him.  He said I had made the Silver Creek Branch cost too much and also the right of way curvey, and thought it would be best for me to go.  I wrote out my resignation this evening to hand to the General Superintendent.
January 26, 1905
Last night the coldest this winter, and in fact the coldest since I have been here.  At 10 p.m. was 27 degrees.  Yesterday morning it was 33 degrees, and was cold all day, with strong wind blowing.  This morning it was 20 degrees and still a stiff north wind blowing.
January 27, 1905
Cold again this morning 27 degrees.  Went to Hattiesburg to Hospital meeting today.  Went on down to New Orleans on 12:20 train, arriving 4:25.  Bought some blue print paper, a shirt, etc.  Came up 9:40.
January 29, 1905
Took supper with Eph. And Eva last night, and dinner today.  Had a hard shower this afternoon.  Took some pictures today and developed them tonight, with two taken last spring at Ocean Springs.
January 31, 1905
Today closes out my time with the G&SI.  McCutchon was here yesterday and today trying to get into things, and I showed him about everything I could.
February 4, 1905
Have been busy most of the time in the last few days packing and getting ready to leave.  Shipped five boxes to Pittstown today.  Took dinner with Eph and Eva yesterday and today.  Dull and rainy today.
February 5, 1905
Went to the Baptist Church this morning with Clark, and from there home with him to dinner.  In the afternoon Hodges and Mimms were in the office and telephoned for us to come up.  They just found out I was loose and after talking awhile wanted me to go with them for thirty days anyhow, so agreed to do so at $200 and expenses.
February 6, 1905
I left Gulfport about 10:45 last night, arriving at Birmingham about four this afternoon.  Laid all the forenoon in Montgomery waiting for Atlantic Coast Line connection.  Hodges and Mimms hadn’t yet arrived.  Went home with W. V. Frierson for supper and to spend the night.  He used to be storekeeper on the Silver Creek Branch.
February 8, 1905
Left Birmingham at 9:15 last night for Ridge Top, Tenn. arriving about 6:40 this morning.  Came to see resident engineer about the grade reduction from Greenbrier, Tenn.  to Guthrie, Ky.  It was raining when we arrived, and about six inches of snow on the ground.  Spent the forenoon in the Engineer’s office looking over the maps and profiles, then after dinner took a freight to Guthrie.
February 9, 1905
Staid around the hotel all day waiting for snow to melt off.
February 10, 1905
Hodges came this morning, so about 9:30 started out in carriages to go along the work done about 2 ½ miles then concluded we could see it all better by walking so walked about 9 miles on to Cedar Hill.  Stopped at Adams Station quite awhile.  We had one long high bridge and trestle to cross, that was rather dangerous.
February 11, 1905
Went to Ridge Top this morning on passenger train and returned on a freight, getting back in time for dinner.  M. Casey left us this morning, returning to Birmingham.
February 12, 1905
Mimms left last night for New Orleans and Hodges and I left at 3:40 this morning for Louisville where we arrived about 10:30, losing over two hours in Bowling Green waiting for main line train.  As soon as we arrived called on the Chief Engineer of the L&N, W. H. Courtenay, and got further information about the work.  Then went to the Louisville Hotel.  Also went around to the General Manager’s office but he was not in.  Rainy all the morning and towards night turned into snow.  About six o’clock went around to the Galt House to see General Manager Starks.
February 13, 1905
Left Louisville at 9 p.m. for Knoxville, changing cars at 4:50 a.m at Jellico.  Arrived Knoxville 9 a.m..  Six or eight inches of snow on the ground, and cold and windy.  Missed connections towards Atlanta so had to stay all day.  Put up at the Imperial Hotel.  Did not go around much as it was too cold.
February 14, 1905
Left Knoxville about 9:30 last evening with the thermometer down to about 8 or 10.  Arrived Blue Ridge, Georgia, about 3:30 in the morning, and then it was two below zero.  Went to bed but on account of the cold could not sleep.  By day it was 8 or 10 below zero.  Nice bright day so snow soon began to melt.  Left Blue Ridge 2:30 for Ducktown, Tenn. arriving 3:30.  There had a two mile stage ride to the town.  The roads were so bad that the driver went through the woods, or was formerly woods.  Hodges went on a couple of miles more to look at some slag dumps from copper smelters, to see about loading on to cars.....