Martha Ballard's Diary, December 23 - 26, 1807

23 4
Clear. I have been at home. Wilm Ballard Came here about Sun Sett, informd us yt his uncle Samuel Pierce was Drownd laSt night, malloncolly to hear. Cyrus went to his Brors, finds it is a reallity. Son and Daugt Lambard and mr Stevens here. a mr Noles from hamden here on Business. at home. Son and Daugt Lambard here. we had news that Saml Pierce was Drowned yesterday.  
24 5
Clear. I have been at home. at home.  
25 6
Clear. it is Crismas Day. I have done a fortnits wash and was Calld to Son Jonas. he was in great Distress with his arm which he hurt by a fall from his hors last tuesday. I put a poltis on it. Hannah was very ill. I attended to them through the night till after [4] this morn. at Son Jonas, he and Hannah very unwel.  
26 7
Clear. I had a very ill turn at my Sons but got [brkfast] and helpt Some about the [sic]. Polly Brooks there aftern. my Son and Hannah were Some more Comfortable this [nt]. at [Ditoes]. Funeral of Saml Pierce.  

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