1959 Original Handwritten Manuscript Diary by an Avid Rose Gardener in Post-War America

On offer is a 1959 diary by Lester J. Stephens, which offers a fine description of the daily life of America's working class during the post-war boom years. Stephens was born in 1910 and lived his life in Gloucester County, New Jersey. He was married but did not have children. He passed away in 1975. Stephens worked in a manufacturing business. There are few references to his work, but on February 5, he notes this: "Was advised today the Automotive Dept was turned over to me." The primary focus of Stephens's diary is gardening, and specifically his roses. Many entries recount purchases of materials for growing, gardening shows, and various types of roses. In many of his other day-to-day activities, he is attuned to the world of flowers around him: "Olson, Frank Gilbert & I to go to Engles to set up Garden display. Olson and Frank cant go. Taking up 20 2x4's 4 ft long, also 2 corner posts Hallman had made" (February 7). "Watered potted roses in garage, expecting to plant before going on vacation, to make sure dirt didn't fall off roots when pots are opened" (March 16). "I brought home 4 potted bushes that had not developed roots. Perfecta, White Swan, Gold Coast, Summertime. Took them from pots and soaked them in water. With RAPID-GRO. From Brown, Frank got for me a Little Darlin @ $1.00 and a Crimson Glory at 75. Planted them and the 2 I got from the Flower Show Perfecta and Sterling Silver" (April 4). "Sprayed 10 gallons of material used FERMATE (1st time) , DDT and RAPID GRO. All these blend good. However FERMATE leaves a black residue on everything. Ruins look of blooms" (June 6). What stands out in this diary is the authors incredible focus on his roses. This is obviously where his interest and heart lies. This diary measures 5.5 inches by 8.0 inches and contains 365 pages. It is one hundred percent complete. The pebbled leatherette cover is in very good condition and the binding is intact. The pages are in good condition and the handwriting is legible. For someone who is passionate about gardening, and roses in particular, this is an excellent account of the efforts of an avid gardener. Whether its the use of chemicals now banned, or a never ending battle with insects, this would be a very interesting comparison with gardening efforts today, a half-century later.