“Some crook is found in every staff; And every grain must have its chaff; Without their weeds no garden plots; The sun itself as ugly spots.” THE STANDARD DAILY REMINDER 1927 PUBLISHED in U.S.A. by THE STANDARD DIARY COMPANY CAMBRIDGE, MASS. The life that has suffered most can best interpret it. Saturday, Jan. 1, 1927 Phyllis came home from New York and told me that R. N had said he wd heiraten She bro't me a beautiful green gold lorgnette from Brother. She had her diamond ring reset. Sunday, Jan. 2, 1927 Lautier, Dept of Justice Edward Lawson Nelson N1686 David Houston Main 6000 Campbell Johnson N1054 Walker Pot 1667 Garnet C Wilkinson M6036 Jones U10402 West Hamilton Monday, Jan. 3, 1927 Started to type the auto which I began more than a year ago- I shall finish typing what Ive already done then put it in some shape to send to Mr Jenkins of Little & Brown. Monday, Jan.10, 1927 Went for my massage Tuesday, Jan. 11, 1927 Saturday, Jan. 15, 1927 R N called P up on long distance about 1 AM, but she had gone to a game at H.U. and had just returned. She said he had been in Canada with a patient and had not received her letter, that he didn't intend to neglect her. I wd have given a great deal if she had been here. How I wish she'd get settled in life. Won 1st prize at Tassie's Brent- a lamp. Sunday, Jan. 16, 1927 Called on Rebekah with Fortunes & Mrs. Baud. Her sister has died suddenly. Monday, Jan. 17, 1927 Typed some-- Ordered flowers from Powell's for Mrs. Scott, Rebekah's sister. Gave my check for $100 for National Headquarters- Wednesday, Jan. 19, 1927 Was never happier in my life than when I gave Mrs. Betheune my check for $100 for National Headquarters. I, the first president of the National Association of Colored Women was the first to pledge $500 for National Headquarters and the first to give a check for $100 after the building was selected. Spent the day with Mrs. Burroughs with Mrs. Betheune & had a delightful day. We talked about plans and discussed the problem, of course- Mrs. Evans 2nd prize Thursday, Jan. 20, 1927 Wrote only a few pages on my auto. Went to Mrs. Evans' bridge at 1 and won the 2nd prize a pongee teddy. Entertained the Sat Club-7 tables. Saturday, Jan. 22, 1927 Worked hard all day getting ready for my party. Had creamed oysters, potato chips, pickles, stuffed celery, sweet pickles, ice cream & peaches, tea & cake. Sunday, Jan. 23, 1927 Leslie and I cleaned up, washed the dishes. Invited Gwendolyn to breakfast. Met Mr. Johnson editor of Opportunity and told him about my experiences trying to get things published. Monday, Jan. 24, 1927 Wrote some. Exchanged the stockings for Mrs. Simmons and Mrs. Scott. Bought some jewelry greatly reduced went to Center Market and bought some supplies. Tuesday, Jan. 25, 1927 Typed some. Wednesday, Jan. 26, 1927 Miss Stetson of Barton Art Studio came to see me this morning to advise me with reference to the colors in which my rose wood set should be upholstered. She thinks the 2 old [Carolina] Eastman chairs (reproduction of those made in King Charles I time) in the hall shd be upholstered in blue or red [damask] reps, the sofa in damask with tan background or blue having colors of the rug. Hangings in parlor sh'd be old gold or yellow on each side of window. Take out ginger bread over doors. Change mantel in reception hall. Dining room gray or tan with Chinese rug-(gray) Marquisette curtains. Cream library. Red chairs big & little-leather- Returned Boks Turch Thirty to Cong. Library Thursday, Jan. 27, 1927 Typed a few pages then went to Mrs. Norwoods to a Bridge party. Won no prizes. Friday, Jan. 28, 1927 Typed a few pages. Went to pay $25 on mortgage "You'll pay off the whole said the clerk next month, when he saw me looking at my papers. Yes, and I want all the papers", I said Saturday, Jan. 29, 1927 Washed towels & underclothes with Leslie before breakfast. Swept the whole floor downstairs. Looked over some papers - clipped them. Went to Loews Columbia & saw "Scarlet Letter" with Mrs. McAdoo. Read Revelry to night. Received letter from Mrs. M. M. Copeland, Baltimore asking me to answer her letter stating whether I can speak Mar 20- Wired her night letter I can. Attended reception Otelia Cromwell gave Blanche Wright Nelson I went to Georgia Douglass Johnson's Clark Smith came in crazy. Sunday, Jan. 30, 1927 Planted ivy in window boxes & cleaned up. Read Revelry. With with Perry + Mrs. Howard, Hon James G Carter, Mr. + Mrs. Brown on long automobile drive. Discussed China's triumph over the British, France's lack of Race Prejudice & Took a delightful automobile drive with Mr. + Mrs. Perry Howard. Mr. + Mrs. Alonzo Brown, Ben Davis of Atlanta + Hon James G. Carter ex-consul to Madagascar. Finished typewriting my manuscript at 330 Monday, Jan. 31, 1927 Wrote hard all day and finished typewriting the manuscript of my auto as far as I've gone. How will it read? Qui le sait? Called up Ben Davis of Atlanta + told him I wanted to write for his paper. He told me to send him something. Tuesday, February 1, 1927 Read the first part of my manuscript. It is so disappointing! I had to stop. Bot the black satin dress Phyllis selected at Jelleffs for $25 & a new pair of shoes at Palais Royal. Wrote checks for Gas, Electric Light, Jesse Powell, Annapolis Light, J.F. Manning & Kann. Helen Curtis Bridge party No prize Wednesday, Feb. 2, 1927 Worked on manuscript. Did a little better than yesterday. It doesn't sound so bad. Mrs. Scott (Emmett) Thursday, Feb. 3, 1927 Fixed the girdle and the hem of my new dress bo't at Jelleffs this morning and went to Thos.. Scotts Bridge Party. Won no prize. Did nothing on my manuscript. Friday, Feb. 4, 1927 Have pd off the 326 T St trust placed on it without my knowledge The bank returns $21.60. Worked on manuscript some. Received a letter from the Equitable Cooperative Bldg Assn saying I had overpaid the account. I went to the bank and they gave me $21.60 the amount I had overpaid. I told the big tall man what I thought of him and referred to the "little fat man." Bo't a pr of silver slippers. Mrs. Houston Saturday, Feb. 5, 1927 Returned papers to window seat - an awful task - Ordered flowers for Mrs Osborne at Carson's. Called on her & Mrs. Powell who wasn't home Sunday, Feb. 6, 1927 Worked around the house - Went to dinner - Wrote letters to the Colemans, Anna Root, Janey - Mrs Cornish of Cambridge who asked for a sketch of my life - Monday, Feb. 7, 1927 Wrote some on manuscript. Went to Mrs Bauduit's at night Mrs. Glenn called Phyllis up to talk about going to the Blue Bird party Blue Bird Dance Tuesday, Feb. 8, 1927 Talked to ?Annozean Marie Wilson, Daisy Glenn & Jennie McGuire about Phyllis going to the Blue Bird dance with Billie I told them the facts and denied I had anything to do with their living apart. Wednesday, Feb. 9, 1927 Returned silver slippers, tried on shoes I bought at Palais Royal, tried to exchange but in vain; went to Thomfordts to order shrimp and bot things for the party tomorrow night. Matron's Thursday, Feb. 10, 1927 Entertained the Matron's tonight. Phyllis didn't wrap up the pitcher and glasses and I got the score all wrong because she told me she had not added but had added the first two scores + I got the 28 scores wrong. The women had to wait for the prizes. Had shrimp salad, olives, pickles, cream and cake. Speak at John F. Cook School Friday, Feb. 11, 1927 Spoke at John F Cook School on Negro Soldier this morning Miss M.E. C Wilsons prin told the teachers I appointed her. Went to the funeral of Mr. Lucas Perry Howards fatherinlaw. Wrote out my talk for tomorrow night. Spoke at Shadd-Nalle Testimonial Saturday, Feb. 12, 1927 Go to see Monroe Trotter Studied my talk for the Nalle Shadd Testimonial to night Did very well. Good dinner and good speaking. Monroe Trotter called me up and asked me to come to Neils 906 T to see him. He wants me to preside at the Douglass home tomorrow to celebrate his birthday and talk on Lynching at the White House and speak at the meeting Monday night Sent Mary and Leon a box of candy. Sunday, Feb. 13, 1927 Went to home of Frederick Douglass to celebrate Douglass birthday. I spoke. Mrs Julia West Hamilton presided altho Trotter has asked me to take charge of the exercises yesterday. I am not to speak to the Pres. on Lynching either as Trotter had planned. Gwendolyn told me about her trouble at Howard Uni. Speak to Pres. Coolidge on Segregation Monday, Feb. 14, 1927 Went to Met. Bap. Church to meet with Equal Rights League. Went to White House with the League. Frazier Miller & others spoke about Segregation, Lynching the imprisoned soldiers & I was presented to the President by Frazier Miller. 46 Tuesday, Feb. 15, 1927 Went to luncheon at National Woman's Party. Sat at table with several women physicians Drs. Cole, Lawrence of Phil and Gombrel. Dr. Lawrence and I [went] talked about Japan where she has lived. She said Lafcadio Hearn finally hated Japanese because after he became naturalized they reduced his salary in the University. Mrs. Golden was not at home but I left my dress to be fixed over. Sat in President's box at the Wednesday, Feb. 16, 1927 Belasco By merest chance I read in the morning paper that John Cumberland had dramatized Pickwick. I c'd not get a seat at the matinee near enough to hear well in the parquet so I took a seat in the box where I cd see & hear well, being right over the stage. A woman who sat in the box with me began to discuss the race problem having no idea how near she was to the real thing. Had a meeting of my Committee on publicity, well attended & interesting. Phyllis cd not get permission to go to New York Feb 21,Monday, so we'll go Friday, 25, after I attend a meeting on Peace in Philadelphia. 48 Mrs. Fry- Mrs Waller Won second prize at Mrs Frys Thursday, Feb. 17, 1927 Typewrote some this moring Went to Mrs. Miller's bridge party in the afternoon, won second prize at Mrs. Fry's at night- a little lustre sandwich set. 49 Friday, Feb. 18, 1927 Typed till 12:30. Bo't fish and took Martha to see Beau Geste this afternoon at the National. It was very fine indeed. Called on Mrs Fortune who fell & cut her head. Finish correcting first 30 pages Saturday, Feb. 19, 1927 of confessions. Downtown in morning Began to read my manuscript for final correction before sending it to Mr Jenkins of Little,Brown & Co. About 2 P.M. Added the motion made by Federation to have me write my reminiscences and something about the Christmas boxes Mother used to send. Finished correcting about 10 and wrote Mr. Jenkins a letter. Am very happy indeed that I have gone thus far. I hope Mr. Jenkins will approve of it. 55 Thursday, Feb. 24, 1927 56 [*Leave for Phil at 9. attend the American Friends Service Com. Leave for N.Y. at 8:30*] Friday, Feb. 25, 1927 Left for Phil at 9 AM. Tried to find the Aldine Press after reaching Phil to see about a lot Berto bo't with a set of books. C'dnt find it. Owen of the Messenger spoke a fine speech. Addie Hunton, her daughter Mrs. Carter spoke. Shepard MC. I spoke a while. Meet Phyllis at 8:30 and went on to New York. Brother met me and told me about his housekeeper. I was greatly surprised. I tho't he was alone. Went home in a cab. [*New York*] 57 Saturday, Feb. 26, 1927 We all remained in the house Phyllis was waiting for a phone call. I heard all about her visit to New York during the holidays. [*New York- Brooklyn-*] Sunday, Feb. 27, 1927 Dined with Mrs. Swift. R did not see P. Spent the evening with Brother. Read my Jeff Jackson story to him. He read me a chapter from his new book which is ready to be published. We both have "literary bees in our bonnets", no doubt inherited from our mother. We spent a very pleasant evening talking about our literary ambitions. [*Receive letter from Herbert Jenkins of Little Brown & Co Was encouraged*] Monday, Feb. 28, 1927 Went to see Paul Kellogg of the Survey. He cant take any more stuff but recommends Brandt & Brandt 101 Park Ave. Went to Century Magazine saw Miss Sloanes, not Mr Howland, the editor. Went to see Mr. Uzzell but he was too busy to talk with me, told me to come tomorrow and will charg $15. If I cant pay that much, he will charge $10. This morning Brother handed me a letter from Mr. Jenkins of LIttle Brown & Co in the first mail. It was most encouraging. "I have just read with the greatest interest the first four chapters of your autobiography. I have no criticism to make at the present time of your work. I feel that you have related the story of your early life in a most natural manner & I assure you that the information you have supplied about your parents and grandparents is most illuminating. I feel that you can not be too frank in revealing yourself and these chapters give promise of a successful book. 70000 words is sufficient. Shd your material extend to 75000 words it will be quite all right. I have confidence to believe you will be able to hold the attention of the reader to the end. New York. Leave at 12:35 A m for home Tuesday, March 1, 1927 Went to Scribner's and talked with Mr. A.S Dashiell. Left my manuscript on Being a Colored Woman with him and asked him to accept it. Had, a very pleasant chat. Took my watch to Mr. Schwab 40 W 48th St and left it to be repaired. Went to see Eugene Kinckle Jones who was out. Phyllis had her throat and lungs examined by a physician Anna recommended. He said she did not have T.B. But I have my doubts. Had dinner. Brother bro't us down in a cab to the station. We took a berth for Washington. Robert suggests that P get her Wednesday, March 2, 1927 freedom immediately. Reached home this morning from New York. Began to typewrite my manuscript after taking clothes from dress suit case. Finished 5 pages. Am determined to work on Confessions in dead earnest. Robert came to see me this evening and suggested that P had better get her freedom right away. He will have Cobb come to see me Friday. Thursday, March 3, 1927 Typewrote five pages today. Wrote to Mr. Jenkins asking him to return the first 30 pages of the Confessions. Robert did not call me, but I called him to ask about Cobb. He said Cobb wd come to see me about the proceedings to be instituted between 5 and 6 Friday. Jackson came to tell me he had been completely exonerated by the Discipline Committee of the Medical School. He thanked me for what I did for the whole set who were involved. It is a shame that such a big mountain was made out of such a small mole hill. Cobb came to see me about Friday, March 4, 1927 getting something for P. Typewrote nearly all day. Have finished 17 pages of manuscript I am copying and wrote the Four Chapter on Oberlin. I fear I am making The Book too long, but it will have to be cut down when finished. I am getting along famously. I am at last doing the thing I have wanted for years to do and have not succeeded in starting. Cobb suggests Virginia where he got a divorce for Maud Hawkins. It will take a year. Mrs Mayer Saturday, March 5, 1927 Called up J.R. Riley lawyer, Annapolis to ask about Md laws. There must be a continuous separation of 3 yrs. That settles Md. Was very unhappy at Mrs. Mayer's party. I felt everybody knew about P's affair at Howard. Sunday, March 6, 1927 Went to church. Was very unhappy and nervous. P and I went to dinner together then we went to the Lincoln Theatre and saw a rotten picture 66 Monday, March 7, 1927 Typed all day nearly finished 10 pages. Attended a meeting of the Committee for the Prevention of Delinquency and Crime. Talked to Martha about Gwendolyn & Howard Uni- told her how G had been misrepresented. Robert came to see me and promised to hurry Cobb up. 67 Tuesday, March 8, 1927 Have written page 70, copied 40 pages since last Wed. Went to the dentist after 1. Teeth need attention. Took Phyllis to see Don Juan and heard the vitaphone for the first time. Will Hays speaks and acts and gestures just as natural as if he appeared in the flesh. Wednesday, March 9, 1927 Typewrote 10 pages today. Rebekah- Won 2nd prize- 3 hdkfs. Thursday, March 10, 1927 Typewrote 10 pages Jessie Parks Saturday, March 12, 1927 Cleaned out the basement It was black from the New River Coal. 2 tons of it. A fearful job. Saw Campbell Johnson about news from Delinquency Committee. Only typewrote two pages 72 Sunday, March 13, 1927 Typewrote 10 pages of C of CW because I cd not do my stint yesterday. Dined out. Phyllis, Gwen & Jackson went to Zoo. Pete did not go. Called on Mrs Perry Howard after rotten Movie at Lincoln with an unspeakable vaudeville. 73 Monday, March 14, 1927 Typewrote on C of CW. Had dinner at Penguin Club in honor of Pickens. Daisy Glenn took Marie Wilson and me in her car. Had awful experience in jam to hear Clarence Darrow at AME Church Policeman pulled me into church after fearful struggle thru thick crowd. Wonderful speech. Met Pickens as I was going to Dentist. He phoned me and called me Mary, will leave his book for me. 74 Ex-teachers meet Tuesday, March 15, 1927 Finished C of CW to day. Had meeting of ex teachers at 8 Rosetta Kirk Williams & Guy were present. Washed hair 75 Wednesday, March 16, 1927 Mrs Beverly fixed my hair from 9:30 to 1:30. Cdnt work on Con-Alas! Went to doctors for Electrical treatment. He thinks it's better. I do too. About 8:20 Mrs Glenn's little friend called up to invite me to play cards. I phoned no- my hair was shampooed & still wet Mrs. G herself begged me to substitute for her. I wore P's hat & played I did not know she was entertaining the Blue Birds! Etta Young Thursday, March 17, 1927 Jessie Parks Friday, March 18, 1927 78 Saturday, March 19, 1927 Baltimore 79 Sunday, March 20, 1927 82 Page Wednesday, March, 23, 1927 Ella Young 83 Thursday, March 24, 1927 Gave Phyllis $400 Friday, March 25, 1927 Phyllis is heels over head in debt- and I gave her $400 today to pay them. It is a great hardship for I have to pay my taxes $141 this month. That means $600 at one clip. Took Examination in School of Politics- Jones asks me to contribute to Saturday, March 26, 1927 Afro American and other papers. Wrote my examination paper in New Willard today-Easy. I answered several questions asked by C.A. Harriman. Even he did not know that the U.S. bought Louisiana from France. 86 Sunday, March 27, 1927 87 Monday, March 28, 1927 Correted manuscript. Received diploma from School 88 Tuesday, March 29, 1927 of Politics - Divorce - Sent manuscript to Afro Amer Corrected manuscript this morning but could not find 3 pages of it. They have completely disappeared. Went to get my diploma from School of Politics. Mrs Lightfoot congratulated me. Went to the dentist. Bot bikes for All Star Cast in Corrected to Page 80- Mr Hill bro't paper on divorce. 89 Wednesday, March 30, 1927 Typed practically all day. P 106_ correcting manuscript. Went to see Sorrows of Satan with Martha heard Schuman Heink on vitaphone. Saturday, April 2, 1927 Worked on manuscript of Confessions. 16 Chapters. 140 pgs 1) Why I wrote my autobiography (1) 2) My Family 6 3) Early Childhood 16 4) Parents Send Me to Oberlin 30 5) I enter Oberlin College 40 6) Pleasures During College Course 51 7) I go to Memphis, Tenn. 59 8) I go to Wash. D.C. to teach 68 9) I go Abroad 72 10) I study in Germany 81 11) In Europe with Mother & Brother 90 12) I leave Berlin 102 13) I Return to United States 113 14) Commissioners of Nat Cap appoint me Member of Board of Education 120 15) Work on School Board 129 16) National Amer. Woman Suffrage Association Invites me to Speak. Sent 140 pages of Confessions registered to Herbert F. Jenkins about 3 PM Sunday, April 3, 1927 Speak at 3rd Bap Church Made changes and additions in manuscript worked hard till about 2 P.M. Wrote a letter to Mr. Jenkins, put it & manuscript in box and registered it. Happy Day! Hope it is all right. I think it is. Now I'll start the last half of the Confessions. Spoke on Woman's Night at 3rd Baptist Church. Pretty well not much. Wonderful chorus. 94 Monday, April 4, 1927 Jones Afro-Amer 95 Tuesday, April 5, 1927 Attend School of Music Exercises at Howard Uni- Chapel P sings Wednesday, April 6, 1927 Sent article to Afro American Phyllis sang to day at Howard Uni Chapel. She also played. She did very well but stood side wise. I sent an article to the Afro-Amer to night. Sent 5 articles to Brandt & Brandt 101 Park Ave N Y Thursday, April 7, 1927 Set of Won 2nd prize at Virgie Washington's linen embroiden Leslie slips out and returns at midnight. Sent Jeff, Venus, Not What They Seem, Phyllis Wheatley and Progress & Problems of Colored Women to Mrs Nannine V Joseph of Brandt and Brandt to day. Promised to let them have all of my work, She doesn't know whether she can place it. As Rebekah was bringing me home from the party last night I was sure I saw Leslie coming down S St. I looked back when I stepped from the car & the girl crossed the street. Phyllis said L had not gone out. She came down to talk to me and see my prize. I went to Leslie's room. She was not there As I called to P to tell her so, L spoke downstairs. She had gone to revival with Martha Branch and returned at midnight. She has probably done that before. Friday, April 8, 1927 Went to Cong. Library. Read press Comments on my work. Looked over Bookman Am making notes to finish Confes Bought black silk for coat 2 3/4 @7=25.25 1925 and 3 yds lining @2 6 Saturday, April 9, 1927 2525 Bot black corded silk @ $7-2 3/4 yd $19.25 975 3 yds lining @$2 $6.00 3500 1 1/2 yds black & white monkey fur @650 $9.75 Cdnt find a coat ready made that I wanted that was not too high. Decided to make it. Phyllis went with me. Tuesday, April 12, 1927 Worked all day around house. Gwendolyn Bennett entertained her card club tonight. Sent letter to Mr. Jenkins Wednesday, April 13, 1927 Too tired to work. Rested a bit after arising at 6 to wash the dishes and set the house to rights. Thursday, April 14, 1927 Wrote a few pages on the Nat. Asso of Col Women- Not much. Attend Nat League of Amer-Pen Women- Art knows no barrier of tongue or race. Friday, April 15, 1927 Heard Mavis McIntosh speak. Deeply impressed by what she said. One cant be an author and a salesman at one & the same time. She is an agent to market manuscripts. The Mc Williams Manuscript Service- 112W42nd New York City. Heard Mr. Deming Civil Service Commission on Newspaper reporting. AU was asked, does the mule ever kick you Sane. No but he sometimes kicks where I've just been. Somebody said It is better to travel hopefully than to arrive. Heard May Folwell Hoisington on Poetry. Fine She lives in Rye, N.Y. Chair Nat. Poetry Contest. Writers advised Saturday, April 16, 1927 10000 collored college graduates 45000 churches. 28000 have incompetent ministers. 1 colored doctor to every 3000 col people 1 col dentist to every 20000 Wednesday, April 20, 1927 Went to Interdenominational Ministers Alliance in the afternoon Howard Uni. Judge Oratorical Contest Thursday, April 21, 1927 Sent 7 page letter to Jenkins After mature deliberation I decided to express my opinion to Mr Jenkins, Little Brown & Co and I wrote him a 7 page letter. A Judge at Howard University oratorical Contest. Saw Audie & back of Billie's head. Gave Kellem second place. 1 PM Effie Simmons Friday, April 22, 1927 Attended meetings of N A of Colored Saturday, April 23, 1927 College Women Attended luncheon of College Women at which Dr Young a Chinawoman spoke. I talked to him about Gen Chiang Kai Shek and Kuomintang. He said that party believes in Democracy, Socialism and Equality. In the afternoon I led the discussion after Father Galliher spoke on Interracial relations. I said the Catholic Church is following the Protestant Church in segregating colored people. I said I liked the Cath Church. My mother was a Cath. There was a most interesting discussion and the women complimented me greatly after the meeting. Mrs Cook of Baltimore & Memphis said I had so much charm,grace & poise Plymouth Church 8 P.M. Sunday, April 24, 1927 Was very tired this morning, looked thru some papers and dozed. Spoke at Plymouth in the evening. Had fine audience. Rev. __________ of Pittsfield Mass attended the service said he was glad he remained over and told the congregation they had heard something scholarly and profound. Monday, April 25, 1927 Out all day. Went to Boure's there. There till noon. Went to Velatis, send Mary 2 lb box of candy- a birthday card and a check for $20. Went to Dr Anderson's then to Mrs. Bond's card party, had fine score and bro't home 3 linen towels. Mrs Lee 1 PM Friday, April 29, 1927 Monday, May 2, 1927 Washed my hair. Mrs Beverly put the tonic on it. Worked some straightening up the library in disorder on account of my effort to arrange papers,letters,manuscripts programs, newspaper articles and everything else relating to my career. Highland Beach Tuesday, May 3, 1927 Mr & Mrs Bond took me to Highland Beach. The lawn is doing well. Told Loudon Pinkney to make me a walk 50 ft wide. The dogwood tree in front was beautiful in blossoms. Wednesday, May 4, 1927 Mrs Beverly fixed hair in the morning. Mrs Hilyer- 1st prize Pink shade. Thursday, May 5, 1927 Ellen Perry Friday, May 6, 1927 Tessa Saturday, May 7, 1927 [Institute West Va.] Baltimore Sunday, May 8, 1927 Bond Tuesday, May 10, 1927 Mrs Armond Scott 2 PM 2 Wednesday, May 11, 1927 Republican Women Audie Thursday, May 12, 1927 Lewis 1st prize- electors room (small) Attended session of National League of Republican Women. Mrs Cromwell, Mrs. Bond and Mrs Lee came as delegates from our Women's Republican League. Women greeted me cordially. There were fine discussions. Invited Mrs George Williams, Mrs Lampkins,Rebecca Stiles Taylor, Majie Griffin and to lunch. There were 6 at Miss Burrough's lunch room. Mrs Virginia White Spiel compliments me on my address in Friday, May 13, 1927 Berlin Attended sessions of the Conference morning and afternoon. Had 7 delegates to lunch to day. I thanked Sec'y Wilbur for his letter in our defence after he had finished talking to us. Told Dr. Work, Secy of Interior he had not only "entertained" us, as he had said he w'd do, but he had informed us. Mrs Virginia White Spiel paid me a great compliment during he speech. She had been saying that so many colored women were accomplished. Pointing at me she said There sits a woman who was the only woman from the US who cd address a convention in Berlin in 2 languages. She didn't tell me she cd do it but the newspapers blazoned it broadcast. Leave at 6:55 for Charleston W. Va Saturday, May 4, 1927 to deliver address. Went to White House. Discussions at the Conference were most interesting Mrs Alvin T Hert lunched at the Y.W.C.A She spoke to a group of women afterward and told us we shd be patient. I said we had been and asked her is she didn't think so. I had to repeat the question several times before she replied. Finally she admitted we had been. She then stated emphatically she had tried to get something for col women to do and had failed. She looked at me and pointing her finger said "I want you to believe me Mrs Terrell, when I say I have tried". She referred to the delegates as "girls" when she presented us to the president Several women spoke about Institute, West Va- Address 500 students Sunday, May 15, 1927 this when we returned to the Y, and requested Mrs. George Williams to tell her we objected to being called "girls". Mrs W promised to do so. I reached Charleston at 6:40 this morning & was met by Mary Webb Lane who entertained me in her cozy little home. Addressed about 600 students and citizens. The "soror" who introduced me said when she referred to me, one of the boys remarked "Mrs Mary Church Terrell? She's dead, isn't she?" The students seemed to enjoy Taking Things for Granted. There was a reception at Mrs Curtis and I met several who had heard me at Institute (18 or 19 yrs ago) & elsewhere. Institute, W. Va Leave at 7:55 for home Monday, May 16, 1927 Visited the school this morning, had dinner at the dormitory in the teacher's dining room , talked to the Delta Sigma Theta girls, then went to Mrs Curtis' to attend a reception given by the Homemaker's Club. Refreshments and a good time with the women. Called on Mrs James of Charleston who entertained me 10 yrs ago. Mary Webb Lane had postponed getting a lower berth for me till the last minute bc Charles Mitchell had secured one and left it at the ticket office for me. A narrow escape indeed. Reached home at 7:40 Tuesday, May 17, 1927 Miss Childers tells me to see Wednesday, May 18, 1927 Wilkinson about P's credits. I called on Blanche in her new home this afternoon. It is very cosy and comfortable and pretty. B does not look well. I tremble for her. Called on Mrs Webb, Mary Webb Lane's mother & told her what a nice time I had in Institute with her daughter. Then I went to see Miss Childers to talk about P and tell her I would try to have her do better work. She then told me Wilkinson, the Registrar, had said he cd not find enough points for P. I went to see him and he said he c'd find only 13 points & P sh'd have 15. The St Johnsbury Vt diploma w'd do no good. I was very much worried, I feared it was a move to prevent P from getting her degree. Thursday, May 19, 1927 I went to Howard University today Narka Rayford 2 PM Friday, May 20, 1927 Charles Lindbergh left New York to fly across the Atlantic at 7 52 this morning. I pray he may reach Paris safely. Show Dr & Mrs Mordecai Johnson Saturday, May 21, 1927 my house at Highland Beach Lindbergh flies across the Atlantic! Guy took me to the Bay today so that I might show my house to Dr. Mordecai Johnson and his wife. His three children were with him- a girl and two small boys. They liked it very much and want it July till the middle of Aug. I ordered lumber to lath the side of the house and to fix the porch. Spoke to students of Howard Uni. Sunday, May 22, 1927 Mrs Norwood's Monday, May 23, 1927 Went to Highland Beach Saturday, May 28, 1927 Guy Friday, June 3, 1927 Went to Chapel to hear Phyllis rehearse. She did exceedingly well. Wrote to Brandt & Brandt for "Being a Colored Woman in the United States. They did not send it with my other manuscripts. Phyllis ill with a bad cold. Saturday, June 4, 1927 Go to Narka Rayford's Won first prize a tournament. Phyllis had a heavy cold this morning and took castor oil. She was too ill to rehearse this evening at 6:30. Miss Childers was in despair When I went to the chapel at 6:30 and found P was not there my heart sank. Where is Phyllis she asked? "Home sick in bed" I replied. She begged me to have P's throat treated- keep her quiet, not let her have company and talk. Baccalaureate Sermon- Phyllis wears gown in which her Sunday, June 5, 1927 father delivered his commencement address 43 yrs ago. Phyllis throat was better this morning but I did not know whether to let her go to the Baccalaureate sermon or not. It poured raining about an hour before the sermon then cleared up and the sun shone bright. P looked beautiful. She wore her father's gown- the one in which he delivered is Commencement address at Harvard 43 yrs ago. Marie Wright was there. Monday, June 6, 1927 Howard University Chapel this morning to hear Phyllis practice for the recital. She did splendidly considering her bad cold. Miss Childers was pleased. She has urged P to have her nose and throat treated for a long time. So have I. P will heed nobody will not even take the tonic which Dr. West gave her. Went to the stores to get some supplies. Looked after flowers for P's recital tomorrow night. Phyllis Gives voice Recital Tuesday, June 7, 1927 Phyllis did splendidly tonight. She looked lovely in a green taffeta over which there were three lace flounces with several sprays of pink embroidered flowers on the skirt and one on the shoulder. She knew her songs perfectly. Everybody was surprised that she gave a recital in voice I that she was going to give a recital in piano everybody said. Marie came to see me and took dinner with us and stayed all night. Phyllis had many beautiful flowers. F.E. Parks helped decorate the Stage nicely. He had Brooks bring palms and bought some flowers also. He was provoked because I wd not let P come home in his open car. Wednesday, June 8, 1927 Everybody is congratulating me on Phyllis' fine recital. I was very much pleased I saw Lindbergh to day Saturday, June 11, 1927 Go to Blanche Wright Nelsons I went to Republican Headquarters and saw Lindbergh pass up the Avenue. He is truly a hero in every sense of the word. He looks younger than 25 and has remarkable poise. Went to Blanche's house this afternoon to attend a small function she gave for Mrs. Crawford. Sunday, June 12, 1927 Went up to Dupont Circle to see "Lindy" at the Temporary White House, about 10 minutes walk from home. I saw him come out several times and then Pres and Mrs. Coolidge, Lindy and his mother had their pictures taken on the front steps I went to 16th St & S this afternoon and saw him on his way to Walter Reed Hospital. I can not see enough of him. I am a Hero Worshiper. Highland Beach 177 Sunday, June 26, 1927 Went to Highland Beach by train. Guy met met me. My back gives me a great deal of trouble. I can barely bend. 178 Return to Monday, June 27, 1927 See next page- Wrote on that 179 Tuesday, June 28, 1927 page by mistake- Reach Highland Beach at 3 * Wednesday, June 29, 1927 Return with F.E. Mrs Parks and Phyllis at 10- Send release to Norfolk J & Guide Phyllis phoned F.E. she wanted to come home so as to get ready to go to Atlantic City. She did that after I reached Highland Beach about 3 I then decided I wd return with them, since Leslie was with me at Highland Beach and there wd be no one with Phyllis in our Wash residence. I knew that wd create a great deal of gossip. Phyllis leaves with F.E. for Thursday, June 30, 1927 Atlantic City Early this morning Phyllis left for Atlantic City with F.E. Parks after they took me to the station. I went to Highland Beach to finish painting and getting the house in order. 182 See Page 181 Friday, July 1, 1927 Highland Beach Saturday, July 2, 1927 Eula gives party for Mrs. Fortune Leslie and I mopped the entire floor downstairs. I was very tired but I went to a party which Eula gave to Mrs. Fortune. I had a "set to" with Eula Highland Beach Sunday, July 3, 1927 Big crowd here- Mary Downing came to the house. So did Giff. He has returned from Georgia to see Phyllis. Highland Beach Monday, July 4, 1927 Monday, Sept. 26, 1927 Spent the whole afternoon with Michel Jones. He advised me to write to each paper and ask for a contract. Wednesday, Sept. 28, 1927 Dined with Mrs. Bauduit to day. She had a friend from St Louis, Mrs Gordon, well to do running her husband's undertaker's establishment He died several years ago. She told me things about Idlewild that surprised me. The beautiful cottages have no electricity [ ] bad. Mrs C S Smith has $10000 cottage which she will sell for $7000 She has to go to town in a motor boat. There is a dense forest across the road from her. Wrote Mary I wd start a wk from Saturday Thursday, Sept. 29, 1927 Sent my release to the Norfolk Journal and Guide. Wrote to Mr. Young asking him what he did with my matter he did not use. Wrote to Ben Dans, Atlanta Independent & to Vann. Friday, Sept. 30, 1927 I am working on letters clippings and papers, trying to put them in some kind of order so that I can find them. Saturday, Oct. 1, 1927 Worked hard all day on the letters, papers and clippings. It is an endless task! It must be done, however. I want to find a letter I wrote to Senator Burton in Berto's behalf, showing how keenly I felt the way he was treated by the Senate who refused to confer him because he was colored. Dr. Wells takes me to Highland Beach. Sunday, Oct. 2, 1927 Dr. Wells with Mrs. Wells, Mrs. Francis and a man plus myself started to Highland Beach at 11:30. I put cayenne pepper on all the beds and cuts to keep the rats away. Daisy Coleman stayed here to day. I knew nothing about her coming. I found the door open when I returned from Highland Beach. Pete Johnson was nearby waiting for her, she said. Went to the Lincoln & saw Rin Tin Tin. It worries me to see such a highly trained dog. One of the features referred to colored people as darkies. Worked a little on my letters and papers. Monday, Oct. 3, 1927 Worked like a fiend all the morning and finished with the letters, clippings and papers. Nearly finished- not quite. I believe I can find things better & quicker than I did before. All of my personal clippings are in the 3rd drawer in a long green envelope and a yellow one. Very special letters in two large envelope in window seat. Articles I wrote for newspapers in small box with cover- manuscripts in box beside it- Clippings arranged by Doggett in same window seat. Think I have decided how to make blue dress. Leave for Chicago at 7 PM Satirday, Oct. 8, 1927 Addie Whitfield helped me put away my papers and pack. Leave Chicago for La Crosse Wis Monday, Oct. 17, 1927 Reach La Crosse Tuesday, Oct. 18, 1927 Address Worlds Purity Federation Friday, Oct. 21, 1927 Speak at Methodist Church Sunday, Oct. 23, 1927 in morning. Presbyterian at night. Leave La Crosse for Chicago. Reach Chicago Monday, Oct. 24, 1927 Dinner with Mr & Mrs Jesse Binga Sunday, Nov. 6, 1927 Leave Chicago for Memphis 6:15 PM Monday, Nov. 7, 1927 Dinner with Mr & Mrs. Robert S Abbott. Reach Memphis Tuesday, Nov. 8, 1927 Leave Memphis for Washington Saturday, Nov. 19, 1927 Arrive home- Monday, Nov. 21, 1927 Leslie is suspended from school Tuesday, Nov. 22, 1927 I phone to Green's Employment Agency Friday, Nov. 25, 1927 Get Leslie good place. Go to Sat Night Club with Mrs Saturday, Nov. 26, 1927 Dumas. Win 1st prize- Telephone Cover Leslie goes to live with Mrs. General Monday, Nov. 28, 1927 Ely. Leslie returns for her clothes Wednesday, Nov. 30, 1927 Leslie leaves for Governor's Thursday, Dec. 1, 1927 Island N.Y. Attend meeting of Nat Rep. Com Tuesday, Dec. 6, 1927 at New Willard, dinner at Whitelaw & Alta Clark's Send letter to Matron's Bridge Club- Wednesday, Dec. 7, 1927 Dr. Wormley lances my gum- bad tooth. Must stay in house. Won 1st prize at Ella Perry's- Silver bread tray. Friday, Dec. 9, 1927 Write on Auto all day. Dean West will send me Howard Boy to tend furnace. Went to Mrs.(Ellen Brown's-No Prize) Perry Howard's-No Prize Thursday, Dec. 15, 1927 (After Mrs. Brown's party) Went to Mrs. Ellen Brown's afternoon Club. No prize- Friday, Dec. 16, 1927 After Mrs. Brown's party I met Phyllis and we bought Xmas decorations. Came home loaded down Left my purse lying on a counter. After several trips back and forth recovered it. Sat up till midnight putting papers into sofa. Monday, Dec. 19, 1927 Got Anna pair of silver candle sticks, Annette a silver plater pyrex dish. Went to Bowns. Tried on blue crepe dress. Got dinner. Phyllis and I wrapped the presents from 5 till nearly nine and took boxes to big post office. Memphis box- Mary's,Laura's, Tuesday, Dec. 20, 1927 Mrs. Beverley fixed my hair. Cleaned up bed room. Arose early & went to store to get washing soda and supplies. Went to movie with Phyllis to see Roman Novarro. Suddenly she left. She said she was going to see Mrs. Johnson but she went to the Lincoln. Took things to Bowie. Wednesday, Dec. 21, 1927 Wrote on International Congress. Got dinner. Went to the dentists. Washed my hair in morning. Dr Wormly lanced my gum. Sent him a check for $10 a token of appreciation. Thursday, Dec. 22, 1927 Wrote up International Congress of Women till 1. Made celery soup. Cleaned up room. Wrote letters to Philip Randolph, L.S. Cole of Phil,Myrtle Foster Cook, Van Court, Miss Smith of Boston. Got dinner, rested and Cleared out drawer in desk. Saturday, Dec. 24, 1927 Bo't some presents at the stores. Sunday, Dec. 25, 1927 Went to NY Ave. Presbyterian Church, heard fine singing. Phyllis and I went to cemetery to put a wreath each on Mother's and Berto's grave. Dined with Prof & Mrs. Bauduit. Opened our presents right after breakfast. Monday, Dec. 26, 1927 In bed all day with bad cold Took 2 T castor oil - Took alcohol bath at night went to Mrs. Fortune's Bridge Party won 1st prize pretty linen guest towel Tuesday, Dec. 27, 1927 Phyllis and I went down town before breakfast (about 9:15) She bot a pr of shoes 6 1/2 aaa at Woodward & Lathrops for 6.75 - I bot two mats for Mrs. Bond. We went to see "Love" based on Tolstoi's Anna Karanina - Cooked roast of Lamb - P invited by Mrs Parks to dinner - I look Blanche her present (cut glass dish) went to Miss Camile Wickerson's recital Dr & Mrs Dumas brot me home - Introduced to the Delta Sigma Theta Thursday, Dec. 29, 1927 Convention Won 2nd prize at Mrs. Bauduit's Attended Delta Sigma Theta Convention this morning. The members were in a hot discussion about an amendment which the President had not sent out but which they all wanted to vote for. I told them they cd do anything they wished to do in an emergency. The Constitution is not bigger than you are I said. They were glad I suggested voting for it and placing on record that altho the president had failed to send amendment [had not] [been sent] out two mo's before the Convention as the Constitution directs, they were voting for it because they did not feel the members sh'd suffer because the president failed to do her duty. Many of them thanked me for the suggestion. Attend Delta Sigma Theta dinner. Friday, Dec. 30, 1927 and dance Phyllis and I went shopping. I bo't an orchid evening dress at Jelleff's and a black one satin trimmed with gold and silver cloth. Bo't a pr of shoes (black) at Hechts and a suit case. Billie was at the dance. P told me she was not going to let any other man enter her life. She doesnt know what she wants Saw the New Year come in at Saturday, Dec. 31, 1927 Mrs Dumas' Arose late this morning. Tired from last night Phyllis went to Isabel Halls and came to Mrs. Dumas' later After the New Year P told me she did not want the paper we had talked about. She says B had asked her to go with him He did not tell me so. She does not know what she wants. Memoranda Bartell's Familiar Quotations Memoranda Lau Buckner, Tinner Barton Art Interior Wilson Paper hanger Watson Carpenter Lanahan Plumber Transcribed and reviewed by contributors participating in the By The People project at crowd.loc.gov.