Martha Ballard's Diary, August 1 - 7, 1802

1 1
Clear fornn, rain with hard thunder ys aftern. mrs Duttun went home this morn. I have had my work to do and Jack Ballard to nurs, he is Coming down with the measels. my famely to meeting, Revd mr Cushman Performd. my arm is very Sore and painfull but I have no one to help me. at home. Jack Ballard here with ye measels.  
2 2
Clear. I am very feeble. Betsy Andrus Came here to help me but dare not Stay by reason of Jack Ballards being here with the measels. Sally Farewell Came from my Sons and did part of my work. my Dagt Came home a little before night, her husband and Shee tarried here all night and took Care of their Son. I got Some rest. at home, very unwell. Jack Ballard Sick here.  
3 3
Clear. my Childn took Breakfast here and went home. Jack pukt up 6 very Larg worms. his marm Came and dind with me, we had string Beens & peas. Jack went home aftern. mr Ballard been Surveying a Lot for Jona which he has Sold to Ebenz Hovey. at home, very unwell. Timothy Woodwdsinfant interd this day.  
4 4
Clear. I have been So well (thro the Great Goodness of the great Parent of ye uneverse) as to perform the busines of my hous. mr Ballard Surveying for Son Jona. his wife, mrss Andrus, Jewels and wido Farewell took Tea here. at home, feel more Comfortable.  
5 5
Clear. I have been at home. at home.  
6 6
Clear. I have been at home. mrs Harington Came and did Some washing. I paid her 1/6. at home.  
7 7
Cloudy and Some rain. I have workt in my Gardin and done my hous work. Dagt Ballard here for Beens. I went there ys morn and Carried her 3 Cucumbers. mr Ballard been on the Collection [business]. at home.  

Source: www.doHistory.org. Transcription courtesy of Robert and Cynthia McCausland.