Fritz, Hal, Grace, and of course, Jeanie.

A Mather In-Law’s Diary from the 1880s: Part Three

In his first entry, James Floy wrote that he would include “family incidents” in his diary.  And so he did, recounting events and accomplishments in his children’s lives.  He begins with a father’s appreciation…

September 10, 1888: “…I wonder do children realize how much of happiness their society affords to loving parents, and what a break their long continued absence makes in our heart life.”  [September 10, 1888]

Of his elder son Henry (Hal): “…And so was one of the pleasantest events of our lives—The weather was delightful, Middletown was beautiful, Hal’s health improves every day…And our dear big boy has finished his College Course and is A.B.”  [July 1, 1889]

Of his younger son Frederick (Fritz): “At the Communion Service this morning, Fred, our Fritz, was admitted as a member of St. James Church…I believe him to be thoughtful and conscientious, and to have well weighed the important step he has today taken.  Truly the Lord has greatly blessed us in our children…” [December 2, 1888]

Of his youngest daughter Grace: “This evening Daughter Grace had her Birthday Party. It was a Success.  Progressive Jackstraws, Flowers and Music, Ices and Creams, Large cake covered with roses and surrounded by fifteen candles.  Twenty as sweet Lads and Lasses as ever grew…” [December 21, 1888]

Of his elder daughter Jane (Jeanie): “My dear daughter Jeanie is today twenty-one, and well do I remember the morning Mrs. John R. Crane met me at the foot of the stairs, and…said ‘I congratulate you Mr. Floy on being the father of a sweet little daughter.  Ah” she was very little, and now so tall and stately…” [February 7, 1889]

Four years later, on October 12, 1893, Jeanie would become Mrs. Stephen T. Mather.

Jane Thacker Floy and Stephen Tyng Mather