This is a virtually complete transcription of the York Factory Journal 1784-85 by Alex Nicol.



" A Journal of the most remarkable Transactions and Occurrences at York Factory from 15th September 1784 to 11th September 1785 by Mr Humphrey Marten Chief"
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" York Factory Journal ? 1784a5 Kept by Humphrey Marten chief factor for the Honorable the Hudsons Bay Company Containing Principal occurrances & transactions done and hapning at York Factory aforesaid commencing September the 15th 1784 and ending Sept. the 11th 1785."

Sept. 15 1784
" Wednesday A hard gale at NNW cloudy weather made up the packet but it blew too hard for the long boat to go down."

Sept. 16
" Thursday A hard gale at WbyN variable more to the north. early this morning sent the longboat on board, and at flood both longboats and the yawl came up. sent sent one longboat down with stones & wood loaded the other. it blows too hard for the yawl to go down. Robert Wilson late taylor at Severn House was obliged to be left here on account of extreme Illnefs."

Sept. 17
" Friday A Brisk gale at SW fine clear weather. at seven this morning Captain John Richards took leave and went for the Ship. sent the longboat down with stores, wood, fresh venison and vegitables. Three Indians whom I hired and paid in part to carry your Honors intentions and a few necefsarys inland, set off for Cumberland House."

Sept. 18
" Saturday Wind SW blows fresh and warm. At eleven AM the Sea Horse was under way and about two PM out of sight. I pray God to give her a happy pafsage to the Port of London. part of the Men cleaning the House. three in the long boat the rest salting provisions. recieved 1000 lbs of venison."

Sept. 19
" Sunday A hard gale at NNE with rain hail and snow with sleet. the Indians I sent to Churchill Factory on Captain Richards arrival returned with the duplicates for York and Severn houses, and Albany and Moose Forts. the longboat came to the House. recieved 600 lbs of venison."

Sept. 20
" Monday In the morning a fresh gale at NbyE clear weather, afternoon blew strong at SW cloudy weather & rain. Sent three men to cut grafs. Robert Wilson very Ill. my Self not well, the rest stowing away part of the Cargo salting provisions and other necefsary Jobs."

Sept. 21
" Tuesday Wind in the morning SW in the afternoon WbyN and rain. the Men emp'd as yesterday. recieved 300 lbs of venison. The Indians that brought the venison on the 18th & 19th Instant returned, the weather was too bad for them to go away before."

Sept. 22
" Wednesday Wind East blows fresh, a hard frost last night. sent eight men to sprigg & raft home firewood. Guthrie and one Man at the pitsaw. Cooper and Armourer salting provisions. Taylor at work for the Men. my Servant and Wilson under the Surgeons care. one attending the sick. Locky stowing away Naval Stores. one Cooking. We are in all but 25 Men including Sick and boys."

Sept. 23
" Thursday Wind SbyE clear fine weather till six PM when rain. Mefs Ballenden, Locky with the Cooper and armourer drying Blankets Cloth &c, the rest as yesterday."

Sept. 24
" Friday Wind WbyN moderate weather. the men employed much the same as yesterday. several Indians a hunting geese."

Sept. 25
" Saturday A brisk gale at SW fine clear weather. a hard frost last night. Guthrie and one at the pitsaw, the rest getting timber to the pitt. the Wooders came for food and to make Bread."

Sept. 26
" Sunday Wind NE cold weather recieved 960 lbs of venison. several Indians came in with geese. all hands salting provisions."

Sept. 27
" Monday Wind in the morning variable SEerly; in the afternoon NbyE much snow last night and part of this day. William Bews was brought from the woods having cutt and bruised his leg badly Wm Sinclear ran a large roasting hook into his right wrist. Wilson a little better. Armourer mending hunting guns. Guthrie and Folster at the pitsaw. Cooper making pailes. Taylor at work for the men. one attending the sick. some of the goose hunters came into take trust; my Self and two with them. one Cooking one writing seven at the woods; three at the hay Island."

Sept. 28
" Tuesday Wind SW raw cold weather & cloudy. the Men employed as yesterday. All the goose hunters came in to take trust. trusted most of them, the totall of geese recieved this fall is 1096. recieved 140 lbs of Venison, and 200 lbs of fatt."

Sept. 29
" Wednesday Wind WbS clear weather. Mefs Ballenden and Locky with the Armourer and Cooper drying Blankets, Cloth &c. the rest employed as on monday last. sent eight Indians to haul the Seine got 100 lbs of fish for which I gave them 2 gallons of Brandy."

Sept. 30
" Thursday A Brisk gale at North, cold weather. unrigged and laid up the long boat. the tradesmen and sick as on monday last."

Oct. 1 1784
" Friday Wind NW cold raw weather. the Armourer jobbing. Taylor at work for the men. Bews, Wilson and my Servant under the Surgeons care. Guthrie fixing shelves in the Surgeons cabbin. Mr Ballenden the Cooper and one man fixing battens to the Beams in the lower warehouse to put sundries on. one Cooking one writing seven at the woods. three at the hay Island. eight families of home Indians pitched (for they have no Canoes) for their winter quarters they intend to build Canoes before they come down and Consequently will not be in at the Spring hunt of geese. At the House are now remaining, One old blind man, one lame of both legs, five Widdows and nine Orphans."

Oct. 2
" Saturday Wind NE with showers of Sleet. the wooders brought 6 floats of firewood. the Haymakers brought their things home."

Oct. 3
" Sunday Wind NbyW fine weather. Divine Service for the day."

Oct. 4
" Monday Wind West by South fine weather. three persons under the Surgeons care, the rest getting wood up the bank recieved 140 lbs of Venison several Indians came in to be trusted which most of them were."

Oct. 5
" Tuesday A Brisk gale at SW exceeding haizy weather. a strong smell of fire up the river. in the morning took up the launch, and at Flood sent all the Boats for hay, made a platform and stowed it away. several north river Indians came to take trust. and one Family to go when the Season permits to go with the Packets, or any other duties that may be wanted."

Oct. 6
" Wednesday In the forenoon a fresh of wind at WbN after which light airs NEerly fine pleasant weather. In the morning all hands getting timber to the Sawpit, at Flood sent all the boats for hay. James Batt having strained his back have four men unfit for duty. recd 50 lbs of fatt."

Oct. 7
" Thursday Light airs at West by South till noon them blew hard at NEbyW Bews, Wilson, Batt, Sinclear and Garroch under the Surgeons care. sent all the Boats for hay it blew to hard for their return. All the Indians except the Old Blind lame, Widdows & orphans 22 in number went for their winter quarters."

Oct. 8
" Friday Variable winds moderate weather.Early this morning the Boats returned with hay, unloaded them and sent them for more, they returned to late to be unloaded. Guthrie Magnus Flett and two men at the pitsaw."

Oct. 9
" Saturday Wind WbN fine weather stacked the hay brought yesterday and got timber to the Sawpit. four men under the Surgeons care."

Oct. 10
" Sunday Wind SW fine weather Divine service for the day."

Oct. 11
" Monday Wind variable from WbyN to NEbyN fine weather. sent eleven men for hay. Guthrie Spence and two men at the sawpit. Taylor at work for the men, the rest digging a hole to bury part of the Strong beer in. the boats returned with hay, unloaded them then got stones and wood to the lime kiln. Batt able to do a little work."

Oct. 12
" Tuesday Light airs West by North moderate weather. Armourer jobbing. Taylor at work for the Men. Bews Wilson and Sinclear under the Surgeons care. Guthrie Flett and two men at work at the Sawpit eleven men getting hay home. finished it and stacked it over the buried beer. one writing. the rest variously employed."

Oct. 13
" Wednesday All last night a hard gale at NW variable to NbW with much snow & very cold. eight men preparing for the woods. two for hunting, the rest employed variously within doors."

Oct. 14
" Thursday Wind variable from WSW to NW raw cold weather with flights of Snow. my Self and three men went to tenshilling creek to try for fish no luck. Men? Ballenden and the Cooper serving eight men eight weeks provisions for going to fall timber & plank and firewood. Bricklayer and five men setting the lime kiln. Guthrie and Flett? roofing the Carpenters shop. three under the Surgeons care. the Taylor at work for the Men. Armourer jobbing one Cooking."

Oct. 15
" Friday Wind variable NWerly cold raw weather. All hands employed much the same as yesterday. recieved 120 lbs of fish."

Oct. 16
" Saturday Wind variable from W to NNW sharp weather much Ice in the River. sent eight men to the woods. sent four men to bring the boats back which they did. three under the Surgeons care. Armourer jobbing. Bricklayer tending the lime kiln. Guthrie bad with a pain in his bowels. Flett planing boards. one writing. the rest variously employed."

Oct. 17
" Sunday Wind West by South fine weather. Divine Service sutible to the day. too much Ice in the river to get the hunters away."

Oct. 18
" Monday Wind WNW sharp weather the River very full of Ice. the Armourer and Bews at work at the Forge. Guthrie and Spence getting their Tools in order. Bricklayer with the spare hands taking up the Steps leading from low water to the top of the Bank. Taylor at work for the Men. Wilson and Sinclear somewhat better."

Oct. 19
" Tuesday Sharp weather wind W a little snow last night. Bricklayer, Armourer & Cooper, with three labourers drawing the lime kiln. Guthrie and Magnus Spence roofing the Carpenters shop, the rest as yesterday."

Oct. 20
" Wednesday Wind W by South clear sharp weather. the Bricklayer with those mentioned yesterday Skreening the lime and houseing it, the rest as yesterday. my self with three Indians a hunting and setting rabbet snares."

Oct. 21
" Thursday Wind SW clear fine weather. the Smith and Armourer making falling hatchets. two sawing boards. Bricklayer and one man reparing fire places. Taylor at work for the Men. Guthrie making window frames, the few others variously employed six Rabbets and three partridges to day."

Oct. 22
" Friday Wind and weather much the same as yesterday. the men employed the same. the South Channel of this river set fast."

Oct. 23
" Saturday Wind WbyN sharp weather the men employed as on thursday last two rabbets to day."

Oct. 24
" Sunday Wind West North west blows hard with frequent flights of Snow. Divine Service for the day."

Oct. 25
" Monday Wind NNW very sharp weather this channel set fast but did not stand, at the house but a mile above it, it is fast from side to side, which is 24 days sooner than last year. the Smith and Armourer making a grate Iron. the Cooper and Magnus Flett at the pitsaw. Guthrie and the Bricklayer jobbing. Wilson & Sinclear under the Surgeons care. Taylor at work for the men. one Cooking the rest cutting firewood."

Oct. 26
" Tuesday Light airs variable from WbN to NNW sharp clear weather the Men as yesterday."

Oct. 27
" Wednesday Wind WSW mild weather the Smith and Armourer making Ironwork for doors &c. Guthrie making window frames. Spence and Grimbester sawing boards, the Taylor at work for the Men. Wilson and Will. Sinclear under the Surgeons care. one writing. eight at the woods two hunting the few others variously employed."

Oct. 28
" Thursday A fresh gale at SbyW warm weather. this Channel clear of Ice as high as the mile Bluff, the men as yesterday. recieved five partridges."

Oct. 29
" Friday Great part of last night and this day till noon much rain, in the afternoon snow and sleet. much Ice driving into and out of the river. wind variable from E to NNW. no alteration in the mens employ."

Oct. 30
" Saturday Light airs variable from SbW to WbyN very mild weather. the men still the same."

Oct. 31
" Sunday Wind variable from WSW to NEbyE very mild weather. Divine Service for the day. recieved five partridges."

Nov. 1 1784
" Monday Wind West SW warm weather. Wilson much better, Sinclear still ailing and not able to do anything. All the rest getting timber to the Sawpit, and bringing plank & boards into the yard; this channel clear of Ice as high as the mile sand."

Nov. 2
" Tuesday Wind and weather as yesterday. early this morning launched a boat and sent her with four men to afsist Mr Lockey and Robert Tonnant in getting their things to the French Creek, where they are to hunt & fish. Magnus Flett and one man roofing the new Cookroom. Bews and one forging sundry sorts of Iron work for the cookroom. the Taylor at work for the men. one Cooking one hunting, no game to be seen, the men returned with the boat."

Nov. 3
" Wednesday Light airs variable from WbyS to WNW foggy mild weather. Four men at work on the roof of the Cookroom. Wilson able to sew a little, the rest as yesterday."

Nov. 4
" Thursday Light airs variable from WbyN to NNW with a mild light fog & moderate weather. the Smith and Armourer making of trapping hatchets Guthrie, Flett, Grimbester and Mckimie at work on the roof of the Cookroom. William and Isbester at work for the men. eight men at the woods. two at the hunting tent one writing. one hunting. one Cooking. two brewing, the rest cutting firewood."

Nov. 5
" Friday Wind variable from WbS to SbyW the weather thickish occasioned by the Steam that arises from the open water, this Channel being still open as high as the Mile sand. the men employed much the same as yesterday. at night had a Bonfire as usual. recd nine partridges to day."

Nov. 6
" Saturday Wind SW cloudy heavy weather. Isbester cutting out coats for trade, one washing various articles the rest as yesterday. Henry Garroch and two men came from the woods for Sleds."

Nov. 7
" Sunday Wind SWbyW fine clear mild weather. Divine Service for the day. the wooders returned to their tents."

Nov. 8
" Monday A Brisk gale at NNE the weather cloudy and heavy. the Smith and armourer at the Forge. Guthrie Mckimie Flett and Grimbester making stalls for the Cattle. Isbester and Wilson at work for trade. Sinclear still bad one writing one Cooking, eight at the woods & two hunting."

Nov. 9
" Tuesday Wind variable from ESE to NE with rain and Sleet, the men as yesterday."

Nov. 10
" Wednesday Wind ENE thick warm weather. at night much rain. sent Mr John Ballenden and an Indian to the woods, he hath instructions to inspect what hath been done and what ought to be done, and give directions accordingly. the Smith and Armourer forging falling hatchets. Carpenter making window frames. Cooper and Bricklayer planing staves for sleds. Taylors at work for trade. one writing the rest cutting firewood. Sinclear very Ill."

Nov. 11
" Thursday Light airs variable from EbyS to NE very mild weather. the Men employed as yesterday. Mr Ballenden returned, he says, the wooders have sprigged and gathered in heaps wood sufficient for a Winters firewood, and that they have began to fall timber which tho' but small is handy to get out. he counted about 200 pieces. this channel opened as high as the Mile gully, much Ice drives in with the Flood tide."

Nov. 12
" Friday Dark close calm weather. the men employed s yesterday."

Nov. 13
" Saturday the weather as yesterday. the men employed as on wednesday last. Sinclear still bad."

Nov. 14
" Sunday Light airs variable all round the Compafs. my Self farr from well."

Nov. 15
" Monday Light airs at NWbyW cloudy heavy weather. Smith and Armourer forging falling hatchets. Guthrie and Flett making window frames & sashes. Taylors at work for trade. Cooper and Mckimie sleds, one Cooking one writing. Sinclear and my Self not well, the other cutting firewood."

Nov. 16
" Tuesday Light airs all round the Compafs. thick dull weather, occasioned by Sea roak. this Channel at low water quite clear of Ice, the Men as yesterday."

Nov. 17
" Wednesday No alteration in the weather or mens employment."

Nov. 18
" Thursday Light airs variable from N to SEbyE a clear skye over head, but very thick all round the horizon. two men brewing the rest as yesterday. recieved five Partridges."

Nov. 19
" Friday A light breeze at NE very thick rime from Sea steam. all the trees and Willows are so loaded with it as almost to be laid flatt which renders walking and hunting extremely dangerous. two men tunning beer, the rest as monday last. Robert Tennant brought 40 lbs of fish. James Banks came from the Woods to inform me that himself & James Spence could make no hand at sawing plank, ordered him to try? Tho. Robinson."

Nov. 20
" Saturday Exceeding disagreeable weather. a nasty stinking wett fog and no wind. Robert Tennant returned to his Tent. recd one fox from the Surgeon, the Men variously employed."

Nov. 21
" Sunday Light airs Nerly dark heavy dull weather. Divine Service for the day."

Nov. 22
" Monday Wind NEbyE thick dull weather. Armourer cleaning Musquets. Bricklayer & Cooper making sleds. Guthrie and Flett doing sundry Jobs to Mr Ballenden cabbin. Wilson & Isbester making coats for trade. Bews jobbing two writing two hunting abroad. 5 partridges and three Rabbets to day."

Nov. 23
" Tuesday Wind variable from SSE to SW tolerable weather. the Men employed as yesterday. nineteen partridges to day."

Nov. 24
" Wednesday Wind SW sharp clear wholsome weather. the Men employed as on monday last. at high water this Channel quite full of Ice, at low water quite clear of it."

Nov. 25
" Thursday Light airs variable all round the Compafs the weather cloudy. the Men emp'd still the same."

Nov. 26
" Friday Wind Easterly dull heavy weather. the Men employed as on Monday last."

Nov. 27
" Saturday All last night a hard gale at NE with much snow, both which still contines; the men cleaning the House & Cabbins and recieving provisions, this Channel still open as high as the mile sand."

Nov. 28
" Sunday Wind East by North with some snow. Divine Service for the day."

Nov. 29
" Monday A fresh gale at NbyE cloudy weather. Armourer and Smith jobbing. Guthrie and Spence at work in Mr Ballendens cabbin. the Cooper and Bricklayer making sleds, the Taylors at work for trade, two writing the rest hunting cutting firewood & Cooking. nine partridges to day."

Nov. 30
" Tuesday A fresh gale at EbyN a low drift with cloudy weather. Guthrie and Flett at work in my room, the rest as yesterday."

Dec. 1 1784
" Wednesday Light breezes at ENE till noon? when it blew very fresh with cold cloudy weather. no alterations in the mens employ."

Dec. 2
" Thursday Wind South exceeding sharp weather. this Channel intirely frose over. Guthrie and Flett and work in the Surgeons cabbin. the rest employed as on Monday last. Mr Lockey brought 120 lbs of fish with two red foxes. recd 16 partridges."

Dec. 3
" Friday Weather in the morning clear afternoon cloudy, and very sharp indeed. the men employed as yesterday."

Dec. 4
" Saturday A fresh gale at NE clear untill ten oClock AM, then snow and drift, in the morning the men employed as before, afternoon they recieved provisions. Henry Garroch came to inform me that 77 plank of two Inch, nine of one inch, with two inch boards had been sawed, that they had found more good building timber and had felled some logs made some pits for sawing and got logs to them. recd 28 partridges."

Dec. 5
" Sunday Exceeding cold weather, tho cloudy wind WNW Divine Service for the day."

Dec. 6
" Monday Wind NNW drifting cold weather. The Smith and Armourer forging various things for factory use. Guthrie & Flett jobbing. the Taylors at work for trade. the Cooper and Bricklayer brewing, two writing eight at the woods, two abroad hunting, two writing the rest cutting firewood, Wm Lockey and Henry Garroch returned to their Tents. recieved four partridges."

Dec. 7
" Tuesday Calm clear weather, and very sharp, the men employed as yesterday."

Dec. 8
" Wednesday Wind NbyE snows and blows hard, the weather sharp indeed. the Smith and Armourer mending a Steel trap, Guthrie and Flett sawing plank. Taylors at work for trade. Cooper and Mckimie making Sleds two writing one Cooking, one cutting firewood. recieved 12 partridges."

Dec. 9
" Thursday Wind West clear sharp weather the men employed as yesterday. recieved four partridges."

Dec. 10
" Friday Wind SW variable to West the weather exceeding sharp, no alterations in the mens employ. recieved three partridges to day."

Dec. 11
" Saturday Wind West a clear Zenith but a very thick horizon the weather intensely sharp. the men recieving provisions. Robert Tennant brought seventeem rabbets and 20 lbs of fish. four men came from the woods for food and to bake bread."

Dec. 12
" Sunday Wind WbyN variable a little to the northward, fine clear weather, in the evening blew fresh with snow. Divine Service for the day."

Dec. 13
" Monday Wind variable northerly the weather somewhat milder. the Smith and Armourer jobbing. Guthrie and Flett at the pitsaw. Taylors at work for trade. Cooper blocking staves for inland rundets, the rest cutting firewood cooking and tending the Cattle, 14 partridges to day."

Dec. 14
" Tuesday A hard gale at NbyWest with much drift. All hands employed as yesterday. recieved six partridges."

Dec. 15
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. the Men employed as on monday last. three partridges to day."

Dec. 16
" Thursday Light airs variable clear fine weather. All hands still employed as on monday last. recieved 18 partridges. two Indians came in from the Eastward with 29 marten skins, 3 foxes red, one whole and four half beaver skins and a few rabbet skins also 46 lbs of fish, they exchanged two foxes for two deer skins to make snow shoes with. a strong proof of the scarcenefs of the latter animals."

Dec. 17
" Friday fine clear calm weather. the Indians of yesterday went away. sent a little brandy and tobacco to their Tentmates. the men employed as on monday last."

Dec. 18
" Saturday Light airs Nerly exceeding sharp weather. the tradesmen employed in their several callings. the rest opening and cleaning the watering and victualing holes. taking out & putting in food. Henry Garroch, John Taylor, Nichol Spence and James Spence came from the Woods, we wanting their afsistance till after Christmafs. Folster Banks Robinson and Sebastane stay two saw plank &c till thursday next."

Dec. 19
" Sunday Light airs at NbyW the weather so cold can hardly hold the pen though close to a good fire. Divine Service to day."

Dec. 20
" Monday A fresh gale at NNW the weather so cold that English brandy not fifteen feet from a good fire is as thick as oil, and a quart pot that is filled with it should any of it run over freezes strongly to the table tho facing the fire at five feet distance, if the pot with the Brandy in it is left to stand a few minutes, a large wine glafs of Brandy will run over the edge of the pot; the tradesmen doing what work the weather will permit, the rest cutting firewood."

Dec. 21
" Tuesday Wind and weather as yesterday the men employed the same except two whom are brewing."

Dec. 22
" Wednesday Light airs at North a low thick mist from the Steam of the Sea water, which is exceedingly pierceing to those parts of the body that are exposed to it. All hands doing what the weather will permit, but chiefly employed in cutting firewood."

Dec. 23
" Thursday Wind NbyW the weather more moderate. the four men mentioned to stay at the woods on saturday last came home, as did the hunters with nine Rabbets and 20 lbs of fish. nine Indians came in paid a part of their debts, they are very hungry."

Dec. 24
" Friday In the morning clear fine weather and calm, in the afternoon, a stiff gale at Nby W with much drift & snow, the men recieving provisions &c for Christmafs holidays. recd 23 partridges."

Dec. 25
" Saturday A hard drift all last night and to day until 3 PM the wind NbyW Divine Service sutible to the day. I humbly wish you Honorable Sirs the Comp. of the Season."

Dec. 26
" Sunday fine clear weather wind Wby North Divine Service as usual."

Dec. 27
" Monday SW moderate weather. the men at various pastimes. recieved 21 partridges."

Dec. 28
" Tuesday Wind NbyW exceeding cold weather. recieved 20 partridges."

Dec. 29
" Wednesday Wind North and as cold as ever I felt it, very thick weather. recieved nine partridges."

Dec. 30
" Thursday Wind and weather as yesterday. I am now writing only four feet from a good fire, yet the Ink freezes in my Pen."

Dec. 31
" Friday Wind N very sharp weather."

Jan. 1 1785
" Saturday Light airs at SW clear fine weather. I humbly wish your Honors the Compliments of the Season. recieved 26 partridges. gave directions to eight men to prepare for the woods."

Jan. 2
" Sunday Wind and weather as yesterday. Divine Service for the day."

Jan. 3
" Monday Light airs at SSW till 7 PM when it blew fresh at NbyE with some drift. hired two Indians to go with a packet to Churchill Factory eight men preparing for the woods. Armourer and Smith jobbing Taylors at work for trade. Cooper blocking staves for Inland rundlets. two brewing. one hunting at home. two getting ready to go to the French Creek. Sebestane bad with sore eyes, the rest cutting firewood and doing other necefsary Jobs."

Jan. 4
" Tuesday A hard gale at NEbyN with snow and drift, the men employed much the same as yesterday."

Jan. 5
" Wednesday Wind NE cloudy warm weather blows fresh with snow. Guthrie and Flett at the pitsaw, the other tradesmen employed as on Monday last. the rest opening and clensing the Watering hole and Victualling hole, shovling snow and other necefsary Jobs."

Jan. 6
" Thursday Wind SW very warm for the time of year, clear weather. Sent eight men to the Woods, four of whom to saw plank and boards, the others to haul firewood and timber to the bank edge for rafting. sent two Men to the French Creek to hunt; Armourer and Smith jobbing. Cooper blocking staves for inland rundlets. Taylors at work for trade. one making pegs to pack inland tobacco. two writing and Cyphering; the rest cutting firewood & Cooking. sent a pacquet to Churchill Factory."

Jan. 7
" Friday Blows fresh at NbW with some snow and drift. the Men employed much the same as yesterday. recieved six partridges."

Jan. 8
" Saturday Wind Nerly very sharp weather a low drift. the men employed as on wednesday last. recieved five partridges."

Jan. 9
" Sunday Cloudy sharp weather. Divine Service for the day."

Jan. 10
" Monday Wind WbNW and very sharp weather thick till noon. Armourer & Smith jobbing Guthrie and Flett at the pitsaw. Taylor at work for the Men. Cooper blocking Staves for Inland rundlets. Sebestane bad with sore eys, the rest cutting firewood and Cooking."

Jan. 11
" Tuesday Light airs variable from West to NNW moderate weather. the Men as yesterday recieved fifteen partridges."

Jan. 12
" Wednesday Wind SW blows fresh clear weather. no Alteration in the Mens employ."

Jan. 13
" Thursday Dark heavy weather wind SbyN the men employed as on monday last."

Jan. 14
" Friday Wind NbyW very thick and ? cold weather. Guthrie and Flett preparing to go to the woods. eight Men there already. two at the hunting tent. Smith and Armourer jobbing. Taylor at work for trade. Cooper blocking staves for inland rundlets, the rest cutting firewood. recieved seven partridges."

Jan. 15
" Saturday Wind and weather as yesterday. the Men employed in opening and clensing the Watering and Victualling holes. recieved ten partridges. the Wooders came for food & to bake bread."

Jan. 16
" Sunday Wind WNW very sharp weather. Divine Service for the day."

Jan. 17
" Monday Wind NE thick rime from Sea Roke, sharp weather. Sent Wm Guthrie and Magnus Flett to the woods eight Men there already. two at the hunting tent. the Smith and Armourer jobbing. Cooper blocking Staves. Taylor at work for trade. Sebestane bad with sore eyes, the rest variously employed. recieved eight partridges."

Jan. 18
" Tuesday Wind WbN exceeding cold weather. the Men employed as yesterday."

Jan. 19
" Wednesday Wind and Weather the same as yesterday. All hands cutting firewood. Two families ten Indians came in very poor and very hungry."

Jan. 20
" Thursday Wind SW with thick rime exceeding cold disagreable weather. the Men employed as yesterday."

Jan. 21
" Friday Wind WSW clear sharp weather. no Alteration in the Mens employment. recieved six partridges."

Jan. 22
" Saturday Wind SSW cheerful weather the men opening and cleaning the watering & and Victualling holes. nine Men came from the woods for food and to take up the great Sled to haul timber on."

Jan. 23
" Sunday Light airs at SW clear mild weather. Divine Service for the day."

Jan. 24
" Monday Wind SbyW sharp weather. nine Men returned to the woods. one there already. two at the hunting tent at Stoney river. two hunting near home. one Cooking, the rest cutting firewood and other necefsary Jobs. sent three Indians to hunt partridges over the North River."

Jan. 25
" Tuesday Wind and weather much the same as yesterday. four men leading the hearth in the mens Chimbly, the rest as yesterday."

Jan. 26
" Wednesday Wind NbyE very sharp weather. the men employed as yesterday."

Jan. 27
" Thursday Wind East fine clear weather the Men cutting firewood. recd 17 partridges."

Jan. 28
" Friday Wind NE very sharp weather the men employed as yesterday."

Jan. 29
" Saturday Wind WNW exceeding thick sharp weather. All hands opening and cleaning the watering and victualling holes. Robert Tennant brought Seventy one partridges."

Jan. 30
" Sunday Wind WbyN intense cold weather and very thick. Divine Service for the day."

Jan. 31
" Monday Wind NNW the weather dreadfully cold. Ten men at the woods. 2 at Stoney river about 17 Miles off on the Eastern shoar. Cooper blocking Staves for Inland. five falling firewood near the house. Geo. Gun bad with a Sore leg. one hunting. Seven Indian men, three Women and one child came in pretty well gooded."

Feb. 1 1785
" Tuesday Wind NE very cold weather the men as yesterday traded a part of the furrs brought by the Indians yesterday, but they are too eager for drinking to trade all."

Feb. 2
" Wednesday Wind South exceeding sharp with some snow. finished trading with the Indians. I recieved from them 386 made beaver in which but 100 Marten skins. Bews mending Indian kettles. Cooper blocking staves. Armourer mending guns, the rest as monday last."

Feb. 3
" Thursday Wind SbyW close warm weather the men employed as yesterday."

Feb. 4
" Friday Wind variable from SbyW to NE blows with snow moderate as to cold. Ten men at the woods. two at the Hunting Tent. six falling and hauling home firewood, the few others as wednesday last. recieved ten partridges. the Indians of monday went away. Sent by them presents to several uplanders. the Indians went for Churchill Factory the 6th Ultimo returnd with letters and a few articles from that place. my Self bad with the Gout in my left hand and right foot."

Feb. 5
" Saturday Wind NbyE moderate weather. the Men opening and cleaning the Watering and victualling holes and cutting firewood."

Feb. 6
" Sunday Dark heavy weather wind SW sent an Indian to the woods to bring home Robert Wilson to go to Severn should he think himself strong enough."

Feb. 7
" Monday Wind SSW fine clear warm pleasant weather. Robert Wilson came from the woods to go to Severn. the Taylor at work for one of the Men. the Cooper making strechers for Marten skins, the rest falling and hauling firewood. recieved 17 partridges."

Feb. 8
" Tuesday Wind and weather as yesterday. the Men employed the same busy in getting ready a packet for Severn and the Bay."

Feb. 9
" Wednesday Wind South by West very mild weather untill eight oClock at night when the wind shifted to the NbyE and raw Cold. all hands falling sprigging and hauling firewood. sent four Indians to the Eastward to hunt partridges."

Feb. 10
" Thursday Wind NW and very sharp. Robert Wilson and two Indians set off with letters for Severn and the Bay."

Feb. 11
" Friday Wind variable from S to W sharp clear weather. all hands falling hauling and cutting firewood recieved twelve partridges to day."

Feb. 12
" Saturday Wind N close thick cold weather the Men opening and cleaning the Watering hole and victualling hole. Wm Lockey brought 100 partridges. six of the wooders came for food."

Feb. 13
" Sunday Wind in the forenoon SbyW and moderately clear, Afternoon, the Wind NbyW blew fresh with much sea roke."

Feb. 14
" Monday Wind West north West moderate weather. Mr Locky and the wooders returned to their Tents. five falling and hauling firewood. one Cooking. one washing, the few others cutting firewood. recieved ten partridges."

Feb. 15
" Tuesday Variable winds and moderate weather. the Men employed much the same as yesterday. recieved six partridges."

Feb. 16
" Wednesday Wind variable from W to ENE the weather thick and cold. two men a grinding hatchets, the rest falling and hauling firewood, with sundry other necefsary Jobs. recieved ten partridges to day."

Feb. 17
" Thursday A fresh gale at West very sharp clear weather. the Men employed as yesterday. the Indians came from the Eastward with 240 partridges. recieved 19 from home hunters."

Feb. 18
" Friday Wind WbyN clear weather & very sharp. the men doing what the weather will permit and forces us to have fireing. An old blind Indian died on the plantation, a reputed Son of the late Mr Thomas White, another very bad."

Feb. 19
" Saturday Wind variable from SW to NEbyN clear weather and exceedingly sharp, the Men opening cleaning taking provisions out and putting provisions into the Watering hole, after which cutting fireing and recieving provisions. 22 Indians getting necefsarys to pitch away and seek for food. It is with much ado I can get them to go away. All country food being so scarse; as it is I am forced to give them 14 days provisions and promise them further afsistance in case of necefsity, or they would not venture to Leave the house."

Feb. 20
" Sunday Wind N cloudy weather a little snow. Divine Service for the day 22 Indians pitched away, have now on the plantation Seventeen, Old, lame, Widdows and Orphans whom if forced from the house must most certainly perish."

Feb. 21
" Monday Clear fine weather wind North the weather moderate. James Batt strained his Back. the Cooper and one building hogstys, the rest hauling and cutting firewood. recieved ten partridges to day."

Feb. 22
" Tuesday A fresh gale at NNE thick heavy weather. Taylor at work for the Men the yesterday."

Feb. 23
" Wednesday All last night and this day a brisk gale at NNE with some snow. the weather being too bad for the Men to work out of doors they are employed in cleaning the Cabbins and House, and cutting a little firewood."

Feb. 24
" Thursday Heavy dark weather wind NE not very cold, two men building an hogsty. two diging a grave for an Indian that died last night. the rest falling firewood. recieved four partridges to day."

Feb. 25
" Friday A light breeze at N cloudy mild weather. two men building a hogsty; the rest falling and hauling firewood, cooking &c."

Feb. 26
" Saturday Very fine weather wind N by E thawed a little in the middle of the day. Robert Tennant brought 130 partridges and two Martin skins. Folster came from the woods for some provisions they could not haul up last Saturday. the Men at home variously employed."

Feb. 27
" Sunday Wind SW mild clear weather Divine Service for the day."

Feb. 28
" Monday A Brisk gale at North with some drift. Robert Tennant and William Folster returned to their tents. Two brewing. Cooper and Smith jobbing, the rest hauling firewood Cooking &c."

Mar. 1 1785
" Tuesday wind NW and sharp clear in the morning afternoon cloudy. the Men employed as yesterday. recieved 8 partridges."

Mar. 2
" Wednesday Wind variable Eerly clear fine weather. the men employed as on monday last."

Mar. 3
" Thursday Wind variable from SW back to East by N the weather moderate & clear. Cooper blocking Staves for Inland. the Taylor at work on coats for trade. nine men at the woods. two at the hunting tent. five hauling firewood to the house two writing two hunting one Cooking NB we are in all but 24 Men."

Mar. 4
" Friday Wind ENE and very sharp thick weather, in the afternoon clear. the men emp'd as yesterday. recieved eleven partridges to day."

Mar. 5
" Saturday Wind NNW exceeding sharp weather. eight men came from the woods for Food. the men at home opening and cleaning the watering hole and victualling hole, taking out and putting food."

Mar. 6
" Sunday Wind WSW sharp clear weather Divine Service for the day. recd nine partridges."

Mar. 7
" Monday A fine breeze at SW and sharp until noon. The wooders returned to their Tent. Cooper blocking rundlets. Taylor at work for Trade. one Cooking. two writing, the rest hauling firewood. Sent Sebestane to the woods to relieve John Taylor who is not well."

Mar. 8
" Tuesday Wind SW clear moderate weather. the men employed as yesterday. Jn Taylor came home troubled with a spitting of blood. recieved ten partridges to day."

Mar. 9
" Wednesday Light airs variable from ENE to SW clear fine weather, thaws a little in the middle of the day. the Men as monday last. recieved three partridges to day."

Mar. 10
" Thursday Wind variable Nerly cold weather. no Alteration in the Mens work."

Mar. 11
" Friday Wind and weather much the same as yesterday. the Cooper blocking rundlets. Taylor at work for trade. one Cooking. nine at the Woods. 2 at the hunting tent the rest cutting firewood. Mr Lockey brought 150 partridges."

Mar. 12
" Saturday Wind West clear fine weather tho sharp. the Men in the morning opening and cleaning the Watering and Victualling holes, afterward employed as yesterday. the Indians that went with Wilson to Severn on the 10th Ultimo returned, all well."

Mar. 13
" Sunday Clear sharp weather wind North. Divine Service for the day. Mr Lockey returned to his Tent."

Mar. 14
" Monday Wind NW by West sharp weather. Cooper blocking rundlets for inland. Taylor at work for trade. two brewing. one Cooking. two writing, the rest cutting firewood. two Indians arrived with letters from Churchill Factory."

Mar. 15
" Tuesday Wind SW the morning clear afternoon thick cold weather. the men employed as yesterday. Sent to the Woods for William Guthrie who is wanted to over haul the planes to see if we can spare any for Churchill."

Mar. 16
" Wednesday Wind NbyE clear fine weather. four men cutting and falling wood for the lime kiln. Taylor at work for trade. Cooper making inland rundlets. one Cooking one writing two hunting. Guthrie came from the woods."

Mar. 17
" Thursday A Brisk gale at SW thawd a little. the Men employed as yesterday. recieved 15 Partridges Guthrie returned."

Mar. 18
" Friday Wind SW warm cheerfull weather. the men employed still the same. The two Churchill Indians sett off with letters and stores for that place."

Mar. 19
" Saturday Wind NbyW sharp weather. the Men opening and cleaning the watering and victualling holes with sundry other necefsary Jobs. One Snow Bird killed to day."

Mar. 20
" Sunday A fresh gale at NbyW and very cold. Divine Service proper for the day. part of the Indians that went away the 20th Ultimo came in with 290 partridges. 10 do. killed at the Factory."

Mar. 21
" Monday Exceeding sharp thick drifting weather. too cold for the Indians of yesterday to go away. Armourer mending Indians guns. Cooper making rundlets. the Smith & one making trapping and falling hatchets for inland. Taylor at work for trade. one cooking. two cutting firewood. nine at the woods. two at Stoney river a hunting. one picking oakum."

Mar. 22
" Tuesday Wind N blows fresh freezes excefsively hard. too sharp to work out of doors. two men picking Oacum, the rest as yesterday."

Mar. 23
" Wednesday Wind NW blows hard. the weather terribly cold. all hands employed as yesterday. the Indians of Sunday last went away, they took eighteen pounds of powder &c to hunt partridges over the North river. gave them flour oatmeal &c as per the provision book."

Mar. 24
" Thursday Wind NW the weather thick and very sharp. the Armourer jobbing the Cooper making rundlets for inland Smith and mate forging falling hatchets for Inland. Taylor at work trade, two picking oakum one Cooking the rest cutting firewood."

Mar. 25
" Friday Wind NW clear sharp weather. the Men worked 'till eleven AM then had Divine Service for the day."

Mar. 26
" Saturday Wind NbyW exceeding cold. the tradesmen employed in the various branches of their businefs the rest cutting firewood. Robert Tennant brought 180 partridges 20 of which netted. the Wooders brought part of their things home; on Saturday next they will have finished."

Mar. 27
" Sunday Wind West the weather a little milder.Divine Service sutible to the day."

Mar. 28
" Monday A Brisk gale at SW weather much milder, and clear. the Hunters & wooders returned to their several Tents. Armourer cleaning hunting guns. Cooper trufsing rundlets. Smith and one at the Forge, one Cooking. two writing, the rest picking oakum. recieved 21 partridges."

Mar. 29
" Tuesday Wind till noon SW afterwards NbyE the weather part clear part cloudy. the men employed as yesterday. William Appleby Peter Wildrage with an Indian arrived from Severn House."

Mar. 30
" Wednesday A fresh gale at NbyE raw cold weather and clear. two men cutting firewood the rest as yesterday. recieved 12 partridges."

Mar. 31
" Thursday Wind NbyW raw cold weather. the men employed still the same. Sebestane came from the woods to go to Severn in the room of Wildridge, the latters time expiring next Shiptime."

Apr. 1 1785
" Friday Wind NbyE fine moderate clear weather. The wooders brought all their things home. the Armourer cleaning and repareing hunting guns. Bews and one at the Forge. Cooper making inland rundlets. Taylor at work for inland. one Cooking. two picking Oakum."

Apr. 2
" Saturday Light airs at NbyW pleasant. Mr Lockey brought 120 partridges, eighty of which netted, recieved also from the Indians that went away the 23d Ult, 560 ditto, the men variously employed."

Apr. 3
" Sunday Light airs at North moderate weather. Divine Service to day."

Apr. 4
" Monday Wind WNW clear moderate weather. Mr Lockey returned to his Tent. William Appleby, Wm Sebastane and an Indian set off for Severn House. The Armourer cleaning and repairing hunting guns. Cooper & two men washing casks for geese. Guthrie mending wheal barrows. Flett & one man sawing timber into plank and weather boards. Taylor at work for Trade the Smith and one at the Forge. two writing the rest with the great sled getting snow out of the yard cooking &c. the Indians of Saturday went away, gave them bread Oatmeal &c as per provision book."

Apr. 5
" Tuesday Light airs Nerly fine weather. Guthrie doing sundry jobs in the Surgeons cabbin, the rest employed as yesterday."

Apr. 6
" Wednesday A Brisk gale at SW thawed a little in the middle of the day. Five men getting necefsarys ready for the fourteens goose Tent, loaded the great Sled, the rest as on monday last."

Apr. 7
" Thursday Wind variable from SW to NNE great part of the day cloudy. sent 13 Men with the great Sled to the fourteens. Guthrie and one Man at work for the Surgeon. Taylor at work for trade. one writing. one Cooking; the rest variously employed, at one PM the men returned."

Apr. 8
" Friday Wind SWbW clear weather thaws much. All hands employed as yesterday."

Apr. 9
" Saturday A Light breeze at NbyW cloudy moderate weather with a very little snow. Armourer cleaning Muskets. Cooper making rundlets for inland. Guthrie and one man at work for the Surgeon. Flett and one at the pitsaw. Taylor at work for trade, the Smith and one forging several sorts of Ironwork. two writing one Cooking, the rest shovling snow. recieved 200 partridges from Robert Tennant and an Indian."

Apr. 10
" Sunday An easy breeze at SW pleasant weather until noon when an hard gale sprung up at NW with much snow and drift not very cold. Divine Service for the day."

Apr. 11
" Monday Light airs variable Nerly with a variety of weather, and some snow. Armourer cleaning and mending guns. Cooper blocking rundlets. Guthrie at work for the Surgeon. Flett and one at the pitsaw. Smith and one at the Forge. two brewing. two writing. the hunters of Saturday returned with whom I sent three Men to bring home some Cordage found on the Eastern shoar, the Indian also returned to his Tent."

Apr. 12
" Tuesday Light airs at N the weather part clear part cloudy very cold. Guthrie hewing timber, the rest as yesterday. recd 5 partridges."

Apr. 13
" Wednesday Wind North freezes hard with showers of thick snow. The hunters brought all their things home, and the three Men I sent for cordage, returned with three sled loads. The Armourer cleaning musquets. Cooper making rundlets. Guthrie & one man hewing timber. Flett and one sawing boards. Smith and one cleaning the Stove. Taylor at work for the Surgeon. two writing. one hunting, the others getting snow and rubbish out of the yard, a family four Indians came in for the goose hunt. recd 7 partridges."

Apr. 14
" Thursday A fresh gale at SW thaws a little in the Sun but freezes hard out of it. The Men employed as yesterday."

Apr. 15
" Friday A Brisk gale at SW the weather clear until ten AM when heavy & cloudy. four men getting timber into the Yard. two making rope yarns, the rest as yesterday."

Apr. 16
" Saturday Wind NNE freezes hard. All hands employed much the same as on wednesday last. Twenty two Indians great and small came for the goose hunt."

Apr. 17
" Sunday Wind variable Nerly fine clear sharp weather. Divine Service for the day. a report is spread that two ducks were seen to day. In the evening loaded the great Sled with a Boat for the fourteens goose tent."

Apr. 18
" Monday A fresh gale at SWbyW sent eleven english and two Indians with the great Sled to the fourteens, they returned before noon. The Armourer cleaning & mending hunting guns. Cooper and one brewing. Wm Guthrie and Folster hewing timber. the Smith shoeing the Horse. Flett and one sawing Timber. Taylor at work for one of the Men. one Cooking two writing."

Apr. 19
" Tuesday Wind NNE moderate weather. Banks Guthrie and Folster hewing timber. three men making rope yarns and Foxes. one sewing canvis shot bags for inland. One Cooking the Indian hunting goose hunting feast. two with Mr Ballenden stowing Cloth in trading room. the Smith and one jobbing the rest employed as on monday last. the Horse unfortunately fell as I was going to ride him by which my right thigh and leg with other parts of my body are I fear badly injured."

Apr. 20
" Wednesday Wind in the morning variable from NW back to SW and from thence back to NNE where it stood with a light flight of Snow. One man making & mending fishing netts, the rest employed as yesterday. all the Indians but four pitched for the goose tent. one of the Indians that stays is in a dying condition incapable of doing the least office for herself consequently the others stays to attend her."

Apr. 21
" Thursday A moderate gale variable from S to SWbyW thaws much. Armourer cleaning guns. Cooper making rundlets. Guthrie and two men hewing timber. Magnus Flett and one at the pitsaw the Smith jobbing. Taylor at work for the Men three making rope yarns, the rest with the Bricklayer cleaning the lime kiln. My Self bad with the bruises I recd on tuesday last by the falling of the Horse."

Apr. 22
" Friday Clear fine weather with the wind at SouthWest till ten AM when it flew round to N and blew very hard with a great flight of Snow. the Woman mentioned on tuesday last died. no Indian man being on the plantation set two English to dig a grave for her, the men variously employed."

Apr. 23
" Saturday Wind variable SWerly the weather part clear part cloudy snow in small showers. All hands but my Self who am very Ill exercising small arms."

Apr. 24
" Sunday Wind variable all round the compafs the weather as yesterday. My Self too Ill to perform Divine Service."

Apr. 25
" Monday Wind NNE clear weather not cold. The Armourer cleaning and repareing hunting guns. Cooper trufsing rundlets. Guthrie planing boards. Folster and Banks hewing timber. Flett and Robinson sawing timber. the Smith & one jobbing. Taylor at work for the Men. the Bricklayer and one breaking lime stones. three making rope yarns, the rest bringing Slabbs into the Yard Cooking and writing."

Apr. 26
" Tuesday Wind variable Nerly with some snow. the Men employed as yesterday. my Self very Ill by the bruises I received where the Horse fell with me."

Apr. 27
" Wednesday Wind NbyE with snow in the morning the rest of the day clear. two families came in for the goose hunt. James Spence under the Surgeons care, the rest as yesterday."

Apr. 28
" Thursday NNE winds thick snow & drift fell till noon clear weather in the afternoon and the weather fine. Armourer cleaning guns. Guthrie not well, the Smith and one man straightening spikes. Mr Lockey went to the French Creek a fishing, got two small Jack he says the Ice is more than five feet thick the rest of the Men hauling firewood and setting the lime kiln. recieved from Indians four paddles and two pairs of Snow shoes."

Apr. 29
" Friday A light breeze at SbyW with fine cheerful weather. the Men employed much the same as yesterday. my Self very Ill. the Indians brought seven pairs of Snow shoes."

Apr. 30
" Saturday Light airs at South clear fine weather. All hands till noon employed as yesterday after which time cleaning cabbins and recieving provisions. Several Indians came in for food, no geese flying nor other game to be got, gave them eight days. my Self confined to my bed. several snow birds seen to day."

May 1 1785
" Sunday Wind and weather as yesterday. sent three Men to the fourteens to pitch the goose Tent, and haul brush and firewood to it. more Indians came for food, gave them eight days."

May 2
" Monday Wind variable from SbyE to WNW blows fresh, cloudy at times. the Armourer cleaning Musquets. Cooper making rundlets. Guthrie and one planing boards Bricklayer and one attending the lime kiln. the Smith and one straightening spikes. Flett & one man finish'd at the sawpit, All the timber being worked up. Taylor at work for Trade, the rest variously employed. the men returned from the Fourteens. One goose and four swans seen to day."

May 3
" Tuesday Wind variable all round the Compafs with light showers of Rain. Sent Mr Lockey and Robert Tennant to the Fourteens to serve powder Shott &c for the goose hunt. Smith and one making rings for the Hogs noses. Bricklayer and one breaking Lime Stones. Magnus Flett repairing a boat. the rest employed as yesterday."

May 4
" Wednesday Wind NE clear pleasant weather. All night a thick Fogg; Bricklayer and six Men drawing the lime kiln and slacking the lime. three Men hunting. One duck and three partridges, the rest employ'd as yesterday. several geese seen to day. recd three pairs of Snow shoes; Three families came in for the goose hunt."

May 5
" Thursday Wind variable from NNW to ESE moderate weather. Bricklayer and afsistants Skreening and houseing lime. recd three ducks to day."

May 6
" Friday Wind WbyN blows fresh cold weather. The tradesmen employ'd in their several callings. the rest doing sundry necefsary jobs, the Indians of the 4th instant pitched for the goose tent."

May 7
" Saturday A hard gale at E dark cloudy weather. all hands securing things on the plantation and bringing the boats close to the House for the general safety in case of a severe Deluge. also set the lime kiln and cleaned Cabbins."

May 8
" Sunday Wind variable Easterly at first little wind soon after blew a storm with much rain. many Indians came in for Food. nither fish, flesh or fowl to be gott. much water on the South Channel ice. this Channel ice breaking up at the mile Bluff."

May 9
" Monday A Fresh breeze at ESE with raw cold drizzling rain till noon when flying clouds. Armourer cleaning musquets. the Bricklayer attending the lime kiln. Mag. Flett and one man reparing the boats. Guthrie and one man planing boards. Cooper making pails. Smith jobbing. Taylor at work for Trade. one making fishing netts, the rest heaving snow out of the Gardens. the Ice pretty high at the mile sand."

May 10
" Tuesday Wind ESE variable to WSW mild weather the Men as yesterday."

May 11
" Wednesday Wind NW blows fresh with frequent showers of Snow. Early this morning the channel Ice blew up in many places, a breast the Factory, and at half past Seven AM the whole body of Ice was in dreadful agitation, at nine the water came within ten feet of the House in front, and close to it at the back. the Ice drove on the plantation in great quantitys, a part of the new inner hoisting place was broke, the rail broke and side part a little lifted. the whole would have been carried away but for a thick strong bank of Snow rubbish laid before it. the lime kiln entirely under water also the tops of the West stockades. which now stand rather low. several large fields of Ice drove into the Creek. one of which about forty yards above the House measured forty five feet long twenty one broad and fourteen feet high. the rapidily of the Ice in Mid-channel with the cannon like noise it made was truly Awful. at half past nine it stopped; the lower Ice being too strong for it to force a pafsage. at noon the water was fallen about ten feet. much Ice is left on the plantation and much more would have been left, but for the ruins of the Old Batteries. the Cooper not well, the rest preventing as much as pofsible the Ice from doing damage. recieved three pairs of Snow shoes."

May 12
" Thursday A Stiff gale at NbyE raw cold weather in the night some snow. the River full of heavy Ice from side to side the Water much fallen. the Armourer cleaning Cutlafses. Guthrie and one Man partitioning the Smiths Shop off from the Carpenters. Cooper not well. Smith straightening Spikes. M Flett and one repareing a boat. one making Spunyard one making netts, the rest variously emp'd."

May 13
" Friday Wind and weather much the same as yesterday. the Tradesmen employ'd the same the rest Shovling snow. the water still keeps falling tho Remains exceeding high and certainly rests on the bed of the River. find the lower slip entirely broke to pieces."

May 14
" Saturday A Stiff gale at N the weather part clear part cloudy and very cold. the Men till noon employed as yesterday then cleaned Cabbins &c and recieved provisions. the Cooper able to do duty my Self exceeding Ill with bruises and Erysipelous and the Gout. several Snow birds seen to day. no Alteration in the river Ice."

May 15
" Sunday A fine breeze at NNE warm clear weather. the River Ice in gentle motion several time to day, but cannot yet force a pafsage down. Thank God we see clear water a little above us."

May 16
" Monday Calm fine weather 'till two PM when a hard gale at E dark heavy weather. At six this morning the lower Ice gave way, and we had a clear Channel as low as two Miles below the House but on both shoars, on the Flatts and Islands great quantities of Large Ice is left piled piece upon piece to an extraordinary hight and in such a dangerous manner as to render it impofsible to get a Boat into the Water. The tradesmen employ'd in their several callings, the rest taking up the strong beer which was buried last fall under the hay-stack, and cutting & clearing Ice away from the plantation."

May 17
" Tuesday Wind ENE A fresh gale with cold foggy weather. Armourer cleaning Musquets. Guthrie and one partitioning off the Smith shop from the Carpenters. Cooper at work on Pailes for Severn House. Flett and one repareing a Boat. the Smith jobbing. Taylor at work for Trade. two brewing. Garroch making Spunyarn, the rest variously employed. the Mouth of the River full of Ice, a few Wayways seen to day."

May 18
" Wednesday Wind NbyE & NbyW a Stiff gale with clear foggy weather, last night much snow. Men employed as yesterday."

May 19
" Thursday Wind NNW raw cold drifsling weather with rain, no Alteration in the Mens employe."

May 20
" Friday Wind variable from EbN to WNW with gentle showers of rain. Bricklayer plastering the log Tent. four men getting lime, sand and mixing mortar for him. all the rest emp'd as on tuesday last."

May 21
" Saturday Wind variable from WSW to ENE blows fresh thick weather. The tradesmen employed in their different callings, the rest cleaning Cabbins &c till noon when recieving provisions. This Channel clear of Ice a farr as we can see the South channel, Flatts and both shoars loaded with heavy Ice."

May 22
" Sunday In the morning calm pleasant weather in the afternoon a hard gale at NbyE with much rain. many white whales in this Channel but we cannot get a boat in to go after them."

May 23
" Monday Wind Nerly with much rain and blows very hard, much snow last night, a very great swell in the River. Armourer cleaning cutlafses. Bricklayer and afsistant 4 in number making mortar. Cooper trimming Inland rundlets. Guthrie and one man at work Cloacina. Smith and one man making baills for pailes. Magnus Flett at work on a boat. Taylor at work Trade, the rest making spunyarn, picking oakum and other necefsary Jobs."

May 24
" Tuesday Blows very hard at NbyW with snow, hail and Sleet till noon when some what milder. All hands in the morning all hands as yesterday, in the afternoon the Men cutting down Ice to get a Boat into the River."

May 25
" Wednesday Wind and weather more moderate than yesterday.sent a boat and five men to tenshilling Creek to try for fish they got ninety pounds. the Armourer and afsistants cleaning guns. Bricklayer and Afsistants at work for the Log tent. Cooper trimming rundlets. Guthrie and one Man as before. Flett and one at work on a Boat. Smith and one making Spikes, the rest various."

May 26
" Thursday A fresh gale at WSW clear cheerful weather. sent two men to lay at the French Creek a night or two to try for Fish, also five men to try for fish at tenshilling Creek. the latter returned with forty punds and a little firewood the rest employed as yesterday. recd 90 lbs of Venison."

May 27
" Friday Wind and Weather as yesterday. five men diging the garden, the rest employ'd as before."

May 28
" Saturday Wind variable from SbE round to WNW with Snow and Sleet. the men till noon employed as on wednesday last, in the afternoon recieving provisions and cleaning Cabbins. The men returned from the French Creek with only four pounds of Fish."

May 29
" Sunday Very heavy squalls at NNW much snow and Sleet, and very cold. my Self dangerously Ill, can only move my left Arm."

May 30
" Monday Blows fresh at NbyE with cold cloudy weather. Armourer cleaning trad'g guns. Bricklayer and three men plastering the log Tent. Cooper trimming rundlets. One man rabbeting two Inch boards. Taylor at work for the Men. Smith straightening spikes. the rest with Magnus Spence caulking the Roof of the South Shop. recieved 130 lbs of Venison."

May 31
" Tuesday A Strong gale at NbyW freezes very hard, cloudy weather. the Men employed as yesterday got 20 lbs of Fish. the Shoars and banks are so crowded with Ice prevents us from rafting the timber home; the geese being gone the Indians came in from the back of the Island. paid them for the hunt and sent them to look for deer."

June 1 1785
" Wednesday Wind variable from NW to SE clear pleasant weather. the Smith making of rivets for the Cooper, all the rest employed as yesterday. recieved ten pounds of Troute."

June 2
" Thursday In the morning a Strong gale from SW cloudy weather in the afternoon blew strong at NE with rain hail and Snow. a smoak being made over the River sent a boat in which came over Mr Lockey and Indian Men from the hunting tent to the Eastward they have killed 240 geese which with 286 killed on this side make 526 geese in the whole, a Poor hunt and consequently a dear one; this is always the case when geese are scarce. The men employed as on tuesday and wednesday last. eight helplefs Indians came to the House for support."

June 3
" Friday Variable winds from West N West to SSE with heavy squall of Rain, Sleet & hail. sent the Eastern hunters away. Smith making Staples, the rest employed as on Monday last; an much heavy Ice still on both shoars and the Flatts."

June 4
" Saturday Wind and weather as yesterday. All hands variously employed as the weather would permit."

June 5
" Sunday Wind SSW pleasant warm weather. Two Canoes came to trade middlingly gooded. traded their goods and gave them Brandy Tobacco and a few other Luxsuries as presents to their friends up Country. They several Canoes will be down soon, as they have not traded one Marten skin I fear the Interlopers have been with them tho' they strongly deny it. They inform me of the the death of one of Indian home hunters. Swallows seen to day."

June 6
" Monday Wind and weather much the same as yesterday. Sent 5 men with a boat to the Woods for two Inch boards, brought 60. the deluge they say hath not done much harm where the timber is, but that the firewood hath been drove some what in. Guthrie doing several jobs in the upper warehouse. Armourer cleaning guns. Cooper jobbing. Bricklayer and one taking down the chimbly of the Chiefs old cookroom. Smith making staples. Magnus Flett and one man caulking the roof of the Smiths & Carpenters shop but cannot make it light. Taylor at work for the men. Two canoes of north river Indians came to trade. traded with them and gave them tobacco & brandy for their Friends. these Indians were in in the winter and paid theur debts. some of their Friends I hope to see soon. recieved 120 lbs of Venison."

June 7
" Tuesday All this morning a strong gale at NE with a raw cold continued rain till noon when clear. the people when the weather would permit employed as yesterday. my Self a little better."

June 8
" Wednesday Wind variable from NbE to WbyS dark cloudy weather. Bricklayer and one man laying the foundation for the new Cookroom. three men gethering stones for it. the rest employed as on monday last. the Indians of Monday last went away. recieved 140 lbs of Venison, also 40 lbs of fish."

June 9
" Wind NE raw cold unwholsome weather. Frose very hard last night. Guthrie making framework for the new Cookroom. sent two men a fishing got 14 lbs the rest as on monday last."

June 10
" Friday A hard gale at NEbyE and a great flight of Snow. it lasted from three in the morning till ten ditto, after which small rain. Guthrie making pipe stems. Bews making staples for the launch. Armourer cleaning guns. the rest with Mr Ballenden overhaulling & restowing goods in the log tent. The banks shoars &c of the River are still too much loaded with Ice to raft home either Timber or firewood, or even get any stones."

June 11
" Saturday A very hard gale at NEbyN exceeding cold weather. a great fall of snow uncomfortable weather. As the men cannot work out they are doing sundry necefsary Jobs for themselves within doors. 5 Canoes of Bungee and three of North River Indians came to trade middlingly gooded, But have not a Martin skin. recd 60 lbs of Venison."

June 12
" Sunday Much Snow last night and cold, a little warmer to day. 7 Canoes of home Indians came to trade well gooded in Beaver but very few Martins. my Self a little better tho still confined and very weak."

June 13
" Monday Light airs variable from SW to NW with fine weather till 2 PM when the wind flew round to NNE with cold fog and some Sleet. Traded with the Indians of Saturday. As the old Leaders are all dead made one Captain and three Lieutenants and gave them the Usual presents. Armourer mending Indians guns. Cooper trimming rundets. Guthrie, Flett, Mckimie and four Men at work on the new building. the Smith jobbing. the Taylor at work for the Men. three men whealing ground into the yard to raise the ground that hath been washed away by the Deluge. one at the gates four in the trading room, the rest variously emp'd."

June 14
" Tuesday A Continuance of dark heavy weather with rain and Sleet. too bad weather for the Indians to go away, or to trade with the others. No garden seeds are yet sown, nor even a mefs of nettles to be got. The Carpenters at work on a temporary Cabbin in the lower warehouse for Mr Tomison. Mr Ballenden and five men overhauling and tying up furrs. traded with the Indians yesterday, nearly Eight hundred made beaver, in which 14 indifferent martins Only, the rest of the Men employed as yesterday."

June 15
" Wednesday Wind NE dark cold weather the Indians of Saturday went away. the Indians of Sunday paid their debts. it amounted to 210 made Beaver. I think they have as much more but will not trade it till they have had a heavy debauch. the Men at home two being fishing employed as on Monday last much Ice still remain on the Shoars and Flatts."

June 16
" Thursday Light airs variable from EbN to South. dark weather till ten AM when a little Sunshine, but the wind flying to NE the weather became cold and cloudy. Two men scalding inland rundlets for drawing off brandy. two at work in the gardens. sowed a few seeds, the rest employed as yesterday. a Canoe of north River Indians came to trade poorly gooded and have no one Martins, they say 7 Canoes will be in soon."

June 17
" Friday Wind NNE dark cloudy weather and exceedingly raw cold, traded the Chiefest part with the home Indians, but the weather is so cold they will not yet part with their Beaver Coats much rain this afternoon. the men employed much the same."

June 18
" Saturday Wind NEbN blows fresh rain all last night and most part of this day. Ten men getting ready to raft home Timber. the rest variously employed within doors."

June 19
" Sunday Much rain all last night and to day. Wind NNE Prayers to day."

June 20
" Monday Much rain with heavy squalls of wind all last night and to six this morning, when the wind Settled at NbyE and the weather clear'd up. Sent ten men to the woods to raft home Timber. Guthrie the Bricklayer and two Men at work on the new Cookroom. Armourer overhauling guns. Taylor at work for the Men. Flett jobbing. two at work in the Gardens. one tarring Bouys. Two writing one Cooking. one with the Horse bringing in mould."

June 21
" Tuesday A Brisk gale at NNE clear weather. the men employed as yesterday. seven canoes of home Indians and two of North river Indians came to trade pretty well gooded with beaver, but very few Martins. recieved 40 lbs of beaver flesh."

June 22
" Wednesday Wind Westerly fine weather. All hands employed as on monday last."

June 23
" Thursday Wind variable till noon from SEbyE to SSW the weather warm with Muskeetoes thick enough. in the afternoon the wind got to its old Point at NEbyN blew fresh with a low fog on the South Channel. Traded with the Indians of Tuesday 496 made beaver in all; no alteration in the mens employe. much Ice still on the Flatts & south shoar and not a little on this."

June 24
" Friday Wind NNE with much rain the last 24 hours. the Men variously employed within doors."

June 25
" Saturday Wind NbyE much rain until noon, the weather cold. the wooders came for food and returned. the Men at the House variously employed. the weather too bad to get the Indians away."

June 26
" Sunday Wind NbW variable to E clear warm weather. trusted several Indians, and in the afternoon 79 Indians great and small went away. Muskeetoes thick."

June 27
" Monday Light airs SWerly hott weather. packed and stowed away 20 bundles of whole and half parchment beaver, and got a few deer skins out to day."

June 28
" Tuesday Wind S fine basking weather. the men drefsing and packing a few deer skins with other necefsary Jobs. our men killed three small bucks and a small doe in the River a breat the Factory weight in the whole 240 lbs as it was a hard job gave the Men one gallon of Brandy. The woods brought 14 Floats of Timber with beacons for the River sparrs &c. much Ice still on the Flatts and shoars."

June 29
" Wednesday In the morning an Easy breeze at WSW heavy flying clouds. Muskeetoes very thick. At 2 PM it blew a mere hurricane. part of the West range of Stockades was blown down the House shook much. the Thunder was loud and the lightning strong with some rain, a large smoke about five miles to the Westward of us and another to the South. gott about 400 plank and boards up the bank. much Ice still about us and much in the Offing."

June 30
" Thursday In the morning a brisk gale at West and clear afternoon light airs at NW with dark summer clouds. all hands getting the timber up the bank and resetting the Stockades in the Afternoon Muskeetoes so thick as to force the men from their work."

July 1 1785
" Friday Light airs till noon at NbyE sultry weather, afternoon blew hard at North a very high tide and exceeding cold. great quantities of Ice sweept off the Flatts and shoars by the Tide. the Men finish'd getting the timber up the Bank. 303 pieces of all sizes recieved 120 lbs of Venison killed by the Men. the Indians I sent to Cumberland House in the Fall returnded, they did not gett to the House till Aprill but skulked at a Canadian house up the North river about 200 miles from this place, the Masters name is Bolton with him is Louis Primo and six Men besides occasional afsistants. the deprived this place and Churchill of about 2000 made beaver in good Furrs and many martins. had we men and a Carpenter with Canoes an house should be errected as close as pofsible to them. Butt this is at present unfortunately out of our Power."

July 2
" Saturday Light airs variable from N to E pleasant weather. the men variously employed. pack'd what coat and scrap beaver we have as also the few small Furrs. the whole but 3023 made beaver."

July 3
" Sunday A Brisk gale at NNE and in the afternoon very cold Divine Service for the day."

July 4
" Monday A hard gale variable from Eby South back to NE dull cloudy cold weather. Armourer overhauling drawing? and reloading factory Arms. Bricklayer and one at work on an Oven, and Chimbly, two drawing off brandy for inland. Guthrie at work for a door for the log Tent. Flett and one repareing the long boat. Smith jobbing. Taylor cutting out Caps and mittens for the mens winter use. four men repareing the Sawpit much damaged by the Ice. two setting netts for fish the rest examining and stowing away provisions."

July 5
" Tuesday All last night and most part of this day a hard gale at NE with an almost continual heavy rain the Men variously emp'd within doors."

July 6
" Wednesday Most part of this day a heavy scudd flying from NE whence it blew hard and very cold. Fire is as necefsary now as at Christmafs. All the Indians went over the River. Armourer and Smith jobbing Guthrie & four men repareing the landing place of the launch which is much damaged by the Ice. Taylor mending the Marque, for the reception of your Honors Inland Servants, the rest of the men variously employed."

July 7
" Thursday Wind NE All this morning a close heavy Fogg. Afternoon clear exceeding cold weather. sent two to look at the Netts at tenshilling Creek, no luck. three men packing tobacco for Inland, the rest as Yesterday."

July 8
" Friday A brisk gale at SW very warm weather. Took a boat to try for fish not one to be got. the men employed as yesterday. It is surprising to see great Numbers of birds called loons that are lying dead on the Shoars starved for want of fish to eat. There is now a large body of Ice in the offing which spreads from the North to the Eastern shoars further than the Eye or glafs can reach."

July 9
" Saturday Wind in the morning SW In the afternoon a gentle breeze at NE my Self and men over hauling every thing in the log tent. three packing tobacco for Inland. two at work on a boat. two at the launch two at Bricklayers work. Taylor at work for the Men, the rest variously employed. recieved 246 lbs of Venison."

July 10
" Sunday Wind variable from NE round to East South East, fine weather. Divine Service for the day. An Indians brought a few damaged and Stage Furrs to trade, traded and went away directly."

July 11
" Monday the wind variable from SW round to NbyE and back to NW much rain and some lightning. the Armourer reloading muskets. Cooper trimming casks. two Bricknoggin. Guthrie and four men putting down the launch. Flett and one repareing the long boat, she was much damaged when run down by the Sloop last shiptime. the Smith and one making large staples for the launch. four men packing tobacco for inland, the rest packing deerskins and a few other skins with Castoreum."

July 12
" Tuesday A Brisk gale at NE with a thick bad fog. Guthrie and 9 Men putting down the Launch, the rest as yesterday."

July 13
" Wednesday Frequent heavy weather Squalls NEerly with rain at times and very cold. At five this morning Mr William Tomison, George Hudson with 29 English and 39 Indians Great and Small arrived with upwards of Six thousand made Beaver from Inland. All hands busy on that account."

July 14
" Thursday A hard gale at NE in the morning a close heavy fog. till 9 AM when much heavy rain and very cold. All hands busy in regard to upland affairs, a large body of Ice in the offing."

July 15
" Friday Wind NE fog and rain all this day. The men employed as yesterday. Your Honors Servants who Contracts are expired, extremely extravagant in their demands, not say Insolently? bold in their language."

July 16
" Saturday Wind NEbyN All last night and to day an almost continued heavy rain till noon then the weather tho' cold more moderate. All hands employed about upland affairs."

July 17
" Sunday Fluttering variable winds, the weather moderate and some times clear. Two Canoes arrived with furrs belonging to Your Honors from Inland, and one without any thing. Have now forty five Indians to feed besides fifty five English."

July 18
" Monday Light airs variable from SW to NW warm comfortable weather. Carpenters making Steps for Beacons. Bricklayer and one whealing earth in to the yard in order to pave a part of it. Smith making hinges for Inland. two Cook'g. four grinding Oatmeal sent three men up the river to look for deer. Taylor at work for the Men from Inland. Several under the Surgeons care. Their disorders I do not examine into, the rest all packing goods for Inland. Truth it is 300 yards of old Canvis was Indented for, truth it is not 100 was recieved and truth it is we are obliged to use Vittery which much too thin to prevent damage to the Cloth and other goods that must be often landed when paddleing tracking, trading Canoes through Rocky or broken grounds, or over long carrying places."

July 19
" Tuesday A Brisk gale at NNE moderate weather the men employed as yesterday."

July 20
" Wednesday Wind NE with foggy heavy weather and blew very hard. no Alteration in the Mens employe. nothing fresh to be got which goes hard with most of Your Honors Inland servants as also with all the Indians."

July 21
" Thursday In the morning a fresh gale at NE with a bad Fog and cold, in the afternoon the weather clear, and lefs wind. Muskeetoes exceeding troublesome. Part of the Men packing inland furrs and part packing goods for inland, and not a small part under the Surgeons care, with swelled legs, swelled hands &c."

July 22
" Friday Wind variable from SbyE to NE and moderate paid several Indians for bringing furrs down and to carry goods inland. two Canoes of whom set off for Cumberland house. three Indians came to the North river with a few deer Skins and forty pounds of dryed Venison. the men employed much the same as Yesterday."

July 23
" Saturday Wind NEerly in the morning Foggy afternoon clear. the Men employed as yesterday. the north river Indians went away as did 10 Canoes of Indians for inland with trading goods. sent 9 men to sett five fathom sand becaon, and lay two Bouys, but the boat driving to low, the beacon was sett on the stoney shoal, the Ice thick in the offing, and a few pieces within the mouth of the North River."

July 24
" Sunday Light airs variable from SbyW to NbyE and NNE moderate weather 'till four PM when Sultery, as it was till midnight yet a strong Icey skye in the Offing. took a boat with Mr Robinson, Mr Tomison and four men for a little recreation up the river."

July 25
" Monday In the morning calm and Muskeetoes intolerable, hardly pofsible to do anything for them. at ten oClock AM a hard gale at NE and very cold. All hands filling the Copper for brewing and at work for inland."

July 26
" Tuesday A very hard gale at NE s fast driving fogg and Extreme cold weather. the tides full two feet higher than usual at this time of year at Spring tides. the men that brewed yesterday tunning the beer, eight more men getting stones and timber into the Yard for building a Cooperage, the rest packing goods for inland, Cooking, at work in the garden & under the Surgeons care."

July 27
" Wednesday Wind variable Nerly the weather more moderate. The Armourer, Smith, Cooper, Taylor and five factory men at work for Inland, as are most of the men that came from thence. Bricklayer Guthrie and one man at work on and for the Cooperage. two at work in the Gardens, the rest stowing away Furrs and other necefsary Jobbs, the last gale hath carried away the lower Beacon."

July 28
" Thursday A fresh gale at N moderate weather. Sent nine men to set five fathom sand beacon which they did not do on account as they say of there being too much wind and too great a Sea to do it, the rest very dilitory in gathering things ready for Inland."

July 29
" Friday Light airs at NE moderate weather. Sent nine men to set five fathom hole beacon which they did and returned, the rest of the Men variously employed."

July 30
" Saturday All the morning till ten oClock and all the Afternoon from two oClock a thick close Fogg, which hindered us from setting the lower beacon or laying any Bouys. the Men going Inland pitching their canoes, getting their Provisions and other Necefsarys packed. the Armourer Smith and five men at work for Inland. the Cooper mending trading rundlets. Guthrie and one at work on the Cookroom. Taylor at work for the Men Bricklayer and one Man laying the Foundation of the Cooperage. three grinding Oatmeal & Cooking, the rest at work in the garden."

July 31
" Sunday Wind NE the weather part clear part foggy. sent nine Men to set the outer Beacon which was prevented by the Fogg."

Aug. 1 1785
" Monday Light airs variable from E to NE till till ten oClock in the Forenoon when a fresh gale, the weather warmish. At five this morning Mr Wm Tomison, George Hudson, Magnus Twatt, Malcholm Rofs, Magnus Flett, Wm Flett Junior, James Spence Senior, James Spence Junior, Magnus Annell, James Gray, Edward Wishart, Mitchell Omen, James Tate, Magnus Spence, James Sandison, John Sebestane, James Borwick, John Irvine, Andrew Corrigal, George Rofs, William Copeland, James Morowick, James Johnson, John Kirknefs, Robert Davey, John Flett, James Flett Senior, James Flett Junior came out 1783, William Sanders, Hugh Lisk, James Banks, William Folster, Thomas Robinson, in all 33 Men with 19 Women, two young Lads and a few Children set off for Inland. Charles Isham stays on account of Illnefs. William Flett Senior and James Banks for bad behavior and Wm Omen for refusing to go up as his time expires; Sent Wm Lockey with three Men to lay Bouys the rest cleaning the Yards, Cookroom, and House. 79 Indians home gaurds great and Small came from over the River. Gave them a treat of Bread, Prunes, Barley and Brandy. Your Honors will please to observe that Men and Boys now at the Factory are no more than 22."

Aug. 2
" Tuesday Wind variable SW to EbyS with thunder and rain. Muskeetoes so numerous as to render it dificult to write. one Man at the gates. 7 getting drift wood, the rest setting the Lime kiln, and other necefsary Jobbs, traded 240 lbs of dryed Venison, and 100 lbs of beat meat which is the lean flesh of the Deer beat small."

Aug. 3
" Wednesday Wind North most part of this day the weather cold and foggy. The Armourer cleaning hunting guns. Taylor at work for Trade. Bricklayer and two attending the lime kiln. 7 Men getting drift wood. two at work for the roofing of the new Cookroom."

Aug. 4
" Thursday Wind NE with fog at times part of the men packing deer skins, part getting driftwood with other Necefsary Jobs."

Aug. 5
" Friday Wind NE moderate weather in the Evening calm and muskeetoes intolerable. Sent Mr Lockey and ten men to lay the lower Beacon which they did, and then Seven went in the Cutter to the Fourteens for geese and to bring home the Boat hauled there in the Spring. at night three men came up in the long boat. Charles Isham under the Surgeons care. one Cooking. Bricklayer Jobbing. two writing and finishing the Overhaul. We have had Six Netts down these 5 days without any Succefs, no Deer are Stirring, nor anything but ducks to be gott. shall send some Indians a hunting tomorrow."

Aug. 6
" Saturday Wind NE pleasant weather. Mr Lockey came with the geese and boat from the fourteens. All hands variously employed."

Aug. 7
" Sunday Light airs variable from SE back to W by South. in the morning heavy showers of rain, afternoon a light sprinkling. Muskeetoes intolerable."

Aug. 8
" Monday Variable fluttering winds, Wind Southerly. Sent eight Men to the Woods to raft firewood. Taylor at work for the Men. two writing the rest overhauling and Stowing away various articles. recieved 80 ducks from Indians."

Aug. 9
" Tuesday In the morning the Wind SWerly with much rain. At noon the wind NNE and blew very hard. Armourer mending hunting guns. Bricklayer repairing a fire-place. the Carpenter fitting up the Cook-room. Smith cleaning trading hatchets. two writing. one at work in the garden. one Cooking. Taylor at work for the Men. Please to observe we are but fourteen Men and Boys at the House. recieved 90 ducks."

Aug. 10
" Wednesday Wind variable from NW back to NNE weather in the morning cold and cloudy, afternoon clear and moderate. the Men as yesterday. Henry Garroch came from the woods with a burned hand. recieved 120 ducks and 20 geese."

Aug. 11
" Thursday Light airs variable from NW to NE fine weather. took a boat and three men to the Woods to see how things go on there. find the Men very dilitory. Garroch and Isham under the Surgeons care, the rest as on Tuesday last. recieved 40 geese."

Aug. 12
" Friday Wind SW fine warm weather. two men painting the cook room the rest employed still the same. the Wooders brought 6 small Floats of Poplar. recieved 62 ducks & eight geese."

Aug. 13
" Saturday A fresh gale at SW moderate weather. All the English and 12 Indians getting the wood up the bank, after which Served provisions. recieved 80 lbs of Venison and 22 geese."

Aug. 14
" Sunday A fresh gale SWerly the weather part clear part cloudy with rain. At five this morning a Vefsel was seen in the Offing at an anchor, and at tide time she worked up? abreast the point of Marsh having made the Severn Sloops signal, the Wooders return'd to their tent, Garroch, the Taylor Isham and my Self not well."

Aug. 15
" Monday Calm most part of the day afternoon a light breeze at NNE variable to E. The Severn Sloop came abreast the Factory. Mr Falconer came on shoar, and informed me his Cargo amounted to upwards of 6000 made Beaver. Drummon Moad extremely Ill was brought on shoar. I am sorry to hear Daniel Cumming and Andrew Harvey were both drowned on the 14th July both said to be good Servants. the few Men at home variously employed. hired two Indians to go with letters to Churchill."

Aug. 16
" Tuesday All last night and part of this day a hard gale at NE with much thunder lightning and rain the latter came down in Torrents. at 10 AM the wind veered to ESE with squalls and Showers. Eight Men at the woods. Armourer jobbing. Bricklayer tending the kiln. Guthrie mending a Window, the rest recieving and stowing away part of the Severn Cargo Drummond Moad extremely Ill. Isham and Garroch much better."

Aug. 17
" Wednesday Variable wind all last night and blew very hard with much rain till 3 PM when the wind settled a NWbN and both wind and rain abated. the Armourer cleaning guns. Bricklayer attending the lime kiln. Guthrie making Scyth handles. Taylor at work for the Men one cooking two writing Garroch Isham and Moad under the Surgeons care. the doing sundry necefsary Jobs. recieved 36 ducks."

Aug. 18
" Thursday A light breeze at NWbyN Pleasant weather. my Self and three men Attempted to get to the woods but the wind failing prevented us, the rest employed as yesterday. Drummond Moad who was landed here the 15th Instant departed this Life. two Inds. set off with letters for Churchill; recd 26 ducks."

Aug. 19
" Friday Variable winds from NNW to East cool weather. Two men diging a grave and buried Drummond Moad, for as he had long lingered under an internal decay, and strong sumptoms of hasty putrifaction. the Surgeon said the sooner he was interred the better. My Self three English and two Indians went to the woods to see how things go on there and give directions for their further proceedings, the rest of the Men variously employed. The Severn Sloop sailed for five fathom hole but brought up about two Miles from the House. recd 260 lbs of green Venison and two geese several Indians went off for the deer hunt."

Aug. 20
" Saturday Wind variable almost all round the Compafs weather in the Morning warm afternoon cool. the wooders and one Slooper came to bake bread. part of the Men making Willow fenders for the Longboat, part salting Venison and part putting Willows and Stones to stop a dangerous Chasm in the Front of the Bank before the House."

Aug. 21
" Sunday fluttering variable winds. Att 10 AM a thick fog which hindered us from seeing the Sloop but did not reach the House. the Wooders went away. Mr Falconer came up in his boat, and in the Afternoon return'd to the Sloop . my right Ancle still very lame. five Canoes of home Indians went off for the deer hunt, and one to hunt geese &c."

Aug. 22
" Monday Wind Easterly with a little rain. Armourer jobbing. Bricklayer planing boards. Guthrie making Scyth handles. Taylor at work for the Men. John Taylor attending the Cattle one Cooking two writing two under the Surgeons care. eight at the Woods."

Aug. 23
" Tuesday A Smart gale at ENE cloudy weather, in the morning foggy, and in the afternoon very cold. The wooders came for afsistance, the firewood being drove on shoar at the Mile Bluff. shall send all the hands we can muster to night to gett them off. the men as Yesterday."

Aug. 24
" Wednesday Wind variable from NE to East with much Fogg. The men up best part of the night with the firewood, and at Eleven AM got the Float under the Bank when all the Men with eighteen Indians men and Women got a part of it up the bank. this forenoon heard several Guns, but as the Fogg was thick could not see the Sloop make any Signal."

Aug. 25
" Thursday At ten this morning saw the Sloops Signal out for a vefsel being in the Offing. At 11 heard three guns and saw the Sloop make the Ships signal that there is water enough for the Ship to come into five fathom hole. John Taylor Samuel Isbester and Charles Isham under the Surgeons care. The rest with the Indians getting the Wood up the bank. at high water the Ship got into five fathom hole."

Aug. 26
" Friday A fresh gale at NE cold cloudy weather. the Men putting things in order to recieve the Cargo. at Eleven AM Capt. John Richards arrived at the House with your Honors Packet. Entertained the following Servants Viz.
1 James Smith Taylor 5 Years at £ 12 each
2 Gilbert Duncan ? 2 Years at £ 8 and 3 at 10 each.
3 Wm Rich 2 at do. ? do. each
4 John Cathnefs Taylor 2 at £ 8 each 5 Years.
5 John Jones Armourer 5 Years at £ 25 each
6 Matthew Barrow Labourer do. at 8 do.
7 James Bushland
8 William Corrigal
9 Malcolm Groat
10 Alex. Robinson
11 Laughton Taylor
12 Robert Sinclear
13 William Allen
14 John Allen
15 Edward Brown
16 Thomas Hay
17 William Groundwater
18 Peter Sebestane
19 John Sticklayer
20 Beeky Gaudy
21 Peter Brown
22 John Wood
23 John Ballenden
24 John Irving
25 John Linklater All Labourers all for five years and all at £ 6 pr Annum each
26 also Abraham Melville Lab. 5 Years at £ 10 each."

Aug. 27
" Saturday In the morning a fresh gale at ENE cloudy cold weather. the Men cutting wood, firewood for the Ship. the Sloop and long boat fell down to the Ship got ready a packit for Churchill and drawing off brandy for Inland, much Ice in Sight."

Aug. 28
" Sunday Wind ENE dark cloudy weather. The Sloop and Longboat came up unloaded the latter and sent her away also took part of the Sloops cargo out. sent a packet to Churchill. entered on our books Mr Joseph Colen and Mr William Moore."

Aug. 29
" Monday Variable winds and some times calm moderate weather the Men cutting wood for the Sloop and doing sundry Jobs relative to the Cargo. two Canoes came from the North river almost starved. recd 59 ducks."

Aug. 30
" Tuesday Wind SW warm pleasant weather the Longboats came up were unloaded and went for Stones, recieved 72 ducks sent part to the Ship. 2 Indians arrived with letters from Churchill by which we understand Your Honors Ship Prince Rupert arrived at that place the 22d Instant."

Aug. 31
" Wednesday Wind and weather as yesterday. the Sloop came up unloaded her in part. Ten men prepareing to? go with Captain Richards to get the Shallop off, rollers and other things being ready."

Sept. 1 1785
" Thursday In the morning wind SW much thunder with a heavy louring? Sky. Mr William Locky with nine men and eight days provisions were sent in a boat to land on the Eastern shore from thence they are to proceed by land to the place where the Shallop and longboat lays with orders to make a Smoak as a direction to Captain Richards to land at the proper place. at the turn of the Tide the longboat fell down the River with every requisite we could provide to facilitate the getting both off the Shore, but the Wind flying round to North East and thick Fog coming on, the long boat returned and Captain Richards was prevented from proceeding in his Yawl to direct the proper methods of getting one or both off. the rest of the men afsisting in stoning the Ship and in unloading the Sloop."

Sept. 2
" Friday Wind variable NEerly moderate weather. at nine this Morning Charles Isham, William Flett Senior, Malcholm Groat and John Irving set off with trading goods & Letters for Cumberland House, the Churchill Indians returned. ten men over the River, the rest variously employed. at 9 at Night Mr More brought word that the Long boats rigging getting foul of the Ship the boat overset; the Boat and two cask were saved. We shall search the Shoars to morrow for what may be drove up the river. a Family of Indians came in from the Eastward almost Starved."

Sept. 3
" Saturday In the morning Wind SW fine warm weather afternoon much rain thunder and lightning, the wind North. the Cutter and longboat came up with eleven cask found along shore which fell out of the longboat. two Men returned with letters from CR. they went from hence the 10th August. two Canoes Bungeese came to take debt and brought a very few Summer beaver."

Sept. 4
" Sunday Northerly winds moderate weather. unloaded the Sloop and one longboat the Ship officers came on shore. sent 5 Men to examin the Flatts and Eastern shore for seven Casks not yet found belonging to our Cargo. this is hard to be deprived if 13 Casks of Beef and Pork besides other articles in three Shiptimes."

Sept. 5
" Monday Wind SW fine pleasant weather put all the homeward bound Cargo on board the Sloop unloaded the longboats and all fell down the river. Discharged from your honors Service James Carmicheal, Peter Wildridge and John Mckimie also John Taylor. recd 300 lbs of Venison and 20 lbs of Fatt."

Sept. 6
" Tuesday A Smart gale at SW warm fine weather unloaded the longboat & sent her to the Ship the Captain went down in order to go to our ten men that were sent from hence on the first Instant. he took with him Garroch and Tennant but no Shipwright. the rest of the men variously employed."

Sept. 7
" Wednesday Very heavy rain last night & this morning till 8 AM when it cleared. both long boats and the Sloop came up unloaded them and sent the long boats a stoning recieved 1700 of Venison which tho lean is very acceptable. also 40 lbs of fatt. sent 112 lbs to the Ship and 70 lbs to the Sloop, salted a part. at 3 PM saw a Smoke over the River, sent the cutter to the French Creek soon after an Indian brought word the Capt. was there with our men & disired another boat to be sent over which was done directly and at 11 at Night the Captain came to the House in a filthy pickle."

Sept. 8
" Thursday Wind Southerly cloudy louring weather. the Smith at work for the Ship. the Taylor at work for the Capt. the rest putting part of the Severn Cargo on board. a few north river Indians came to trade a few beaver and deerskins. traded with them shall pack the Skins tomorrow many of them being to wet to pack directly."

Sept. 9
" Friday A Brisk gale at SW till noon when the wind flew round NW by West with heavy showers of rain with thunder and lightning. Packed 248 made beaver. sent all the Severn Cargo on board. the long boat came up unloaded her and sent her away. Discharged from your Hon. Service Wm Oman. I humbly hope you will pardon me Gentlemen for informing you that ever since the Ships arrival besides Mefs Falconer and Moore I have had Capt. Richards and seldom lefs that 2 or3 Gentlemen of the Ship at my table which consequently reduces the tea Sugar &c as also the Butter exceedingly."

Sept. 10
" Saturday A hard gale at NW with rain at times all hands employed on Ship and Pacquet affairs."

Sept. 11
" Sunday Wind SW fine clear weather. Discharged from Your Honors Service Mr William Locky being just going to make up the Pacquet I will conclude with wishing prosparity to the Honble Hudsons Bay Company both by Sea and Land and health and happinefs to each Gentleman of the Honorable Board.
May it please your Hon.
Your ever dutiful and
gratefull Servant
Humphrey Marten
Since writing the above two Long boats came up for Stones and the gale at SW hath so encreased that it blows exceeding hard. The Wood taken by the Ship this Year amounts to the 3 Middling floats, or as much as hath cou'd? eight mens labour for a fortnight to get down."



B.239/a/84



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