1934-1936 Diary of a Fiercely Independent 59-Year-Old Divorced Worcester, MA Working Woman

On offer is the diary of Bertha Marion (Reeby) Whittle Harford (1875-1955), a bright, energetic divorced Massachusetts bookkeeper who is dedicated to her work, her adult daughter, and her community. 

While Bertha does not share her name, substantial context confirms that this is her diary. Bertha was born in Worcester, Massachusetts to parents Richard and Clara (Brown) Reeby. In January of 1906, Bertha married James H. Whittle (1857-1940) and together they had one child, Doris Evelyn Whittle (1906-2009). James was almost 20 years Bertha’s senior and had five children from his previous marriage, some of whom Bertha references in her diary. They divorced in 1917 and Bertha worked and parented Doris alone 1947, when she married Frederick Harford (1874-1955). Bertha spent her career working at Worcester Stampede Metal Company, where she began in 1912. She also either owned or managed a rental cottage. 

Bertha is a voracious writer. Though she writes in a 5-year diary, her entries are long and there is only space for her to keep the diary for three years. She works full time, is heavily involved in her church and community, travels regularly, keeps up on politics, and is very involved in the life of her single adult daughter, Doris, a teacher. Some excerpts give the flavour of her writing: 

“Have been at the Wor. Stampede Metal Co 22 years today. Altha and Mr. Billings congratulated me. Evening went to Ms. Ernest Bennett to see moving pictures of Egypt and Palestine” [Jan 22, 1934]. 

“Friday and my birthday 59 years and I had quite a number of cards and  a very nice…scarf from Doris. In the evening our Club night at Mrs. Goffe’s and she had a fine repast for us. It was quite a cold day and night” [Feb 2, 1934]. 

“It was thawing this morning bit its not far from zero tonight. Such quick changes! I bot a taupe shade dress (wool) today for $4.88. Sent 2 letters to Alvah from P.O. in Franklin Sq. Man came and installed motor in our new elec refrigerator” [Feb 23, 1934]. 

“...This is election day for governor of Mass and senator and other offices. It looks like Mass is Democratic from now on” [Nov 6, 1934]. 

“...Mr. Cole came for the key to cottage and paid the bal of $30. Alma Fox sent me some green peas from their garden. She wanted me to have them as I took them some cherries” [July 11, 1935]. 

“Thursday, worked hard at office making out 36 checks and other work. Played bridge at Meda Fox’s and won booby prize. Mr. Peterson finished repairs on hot water pipe…” [Oct 10, 1935]. 

“...Voting day for mayor and school committees. Have worked hard at office. There was a big fire on James St. which lighted up the sky. Republican candidates have won. Cookson for mayor” [Nov 5, 1935]. 

“Children’s day at church a good day. Susie Lawton, Mis Spencer, Doris and I went to look around Harvey Lawton’s new summer place in Rutland. Good house, but rather poor location, I think” [June 28, 1936]. 

“...Had some nice Xmas presents. Had dinner at home and then in PM went to Homestead Ave to see Mrs. Pickles. Took Eva Ingelham down to Miss Colby’s on Coburn Ave. Then drove over Berwick St. and saw the lights. Went over and saw Ruth Gilchrist’s presents” [Dec 25, 1936]. 

For a social historian, this diary offers a detailed look into the independence, daily tasks and lifestyle of a single and thriving older woman in the 1930s who has carved her own path with great success. It is fascinating to contrast Bertha’s diary with other woman-written diaries of the same era as the differences are vast. 

Measuring 5.5x4.0 inches, this diary contains 365 pages and is 100% complete. The cloth cover and binding are in good condition as are the pages. Writing is legible.