1893 + 1895 Diaries of the Widow of a Prominent Massachusetts Reverend Whose Children Are Grown and Who is Enjoying Her Golden Years in New York

On offer are two diaries dating from the late 19th century in New York City. The author of these diaries is Fanny Maria Bean (1837-1919). She was born in 1837 in New York City to Seymour Hoyt and Fanny Stevens. In 1863, Fanny married Reverend David Marks Bean (1832-1884). Together, they had four daughters: Annie, Susan, Elizabeth and Grace. The family lived in Massachusetts where David was a Minister for 16 years in Everett, Webster and South Framingham. In 1867, Reverend Bean represented Everett in the Massachusetts legislature, and after concluding his ministerial career in 1879, he was Superintendent of Framingham public schools. He then moved with Fanny and his children to Colorado in an attempt to treat his lung illness, but he died in 1884. Fanny eventually moved back to New York, where she remained until her death. 

The diaries cover 1893 and 1895. Fanny Bean is not mentioned by name but a number of context clues clearly identify these diaries as having belonged to her. She was 55 and 57 years old when she began her diaries. Fanny was obviously a well-educated woman and her entries, though often brief, are well written and paint a picture of a busy life [Note: There is evidence of a Fanny M. Hoyt attending Rutgers Female Institute from 1850-1853 but we are unable to confirm this is the same person as she would have been too young to be in university]. 

Some excerpts of her diaries give a sense of the flavour: 

“[ ] S & B to N.Y to see the procession of sailors & ships of navies in Hudson R…” [Apr 28, 1893].

This is a reference to a parade of 37 warships in an international fleet that visited New York City Along with two squadrons of U.S. Navy cruisers and gunboats, squadrons of ships from Great Britain, Italy, Germany, Brazil, Holland, Russia, and Spain also participated. The peaceful collection of ships was a minor diplomatic triumph as many of the nations present were fierce rivals.

“Susie's wedding day – at 12 o’clock in church – to Lawrence Grey – all went off beautifully – the floral decorations fine both in house and church – about 25 here to celebration – Bridal party left at 1:32 – almost 3 I went and laid down feeling exhausted” [June 27, 1893].

“56 years old! All my dear children remembered me with loving cards and gifts. I spent much of the time in writing in A.M. and P.M Thus far the Lord hath led me [ ]” [Aug 19, 1893].

“...Distressed to learn one of my S.S (Sunday School) scholars sentenced to prison for theft” [Jan 19, 1895].

“Very chilly and windy. Making collar for B. B, H & I to dinner at Dr. Ryders – Mr. & Mrs. Ridell and mother there too – very nice time- many meals here for the time being” [Mar 28, 1895].

“Lovely and cool. 58! 10 pretty and useful gifts. 2 P.M. treated myself and all to a ride to Newfield and Springdale – about one hour – lovely” [Aug 19, 1895]. 

The 1895 diary also contains detailed lists of Fanny’s expenditures, which helps the researcher understand her lived experience. 

These diaries are a terrific look into the life of a widow in New York whose children have grown and who is making her own way in the late 19th century.  

Both diaries measure 6.0 x 3.5 inches plus memoranda sections. They are both complete and in Good condition.