1929 Simple Diary of a Newton, Massachusetts Widow and Mother of Adult Children
11182On offer is an simple yet interesting diary written by a woman in eastern Massachusetts in 1929.
The author of the diary is Gladys Smith White. Our research has found little biographical information about her. She lived on Chase Street in Newton, Massachusetts and was married to Allan S. White. Allan passed away in 1925 and Gladys passed away in 1954. There is a note in a Newton newspaper from 1921 indicating that Allan had been admitted to hospital, so it is reasonable to assume that he was ill for a long period of time before his eventual death.
Gladys kept this diary four years after the death of her husband. Context suggests that she may have had several older children. Her entries describe the social activities and day-to-day concerns of a woman who had been recently widowed.
Excerpts from the diary follow:
“Waxed the floors, then took a bath and went out shopping. Went up to Rebecca’s and played cards this evening. Had a nice time. Ben was here for supper” [Jan 12].
“Went to church. Mr. & Mrs. Hudson called also Mrs Farlett, [ ] Ben & Ginny. [ ] roommate came tonight. Telegram – Choate house burnt” [Feb 24].
“Virginia still home. Went down to Ben’s for the evening. I went to Minie’s” [Mar 26].
“Virginia, Charlotte and I went down to Minie’s for luncheon & Virginia is to stay the week. I am cleaning the house” [May 6].
“Went down to Franklin with Mrs. Blodgette shopping. Met Janet all to luncheon. Then went home with [ ] and Fred. Had nice dinner with them. We went down shopping again. Got things for Alice’s birthday” [Aug 31].
For a Women’s Studies researcher, this small diary offers an interesting glimpse into the world of a middle-aged woman living in small-town Massachusetts during the 1920s. The daily life of her and her friends is now a world away from that of women today and serves as a clear contrast.
The diary is small, measuring 4 inches by 2.5 inches. It contains 122 pages plus memoranda. The diary is about 40% complete. The covers are pebbled leather and in good condition, as is the spine and binding. The pages are all intact and the handwriting is legible.
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