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Alfred A. Benitz | Page last modified: |
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Alfred A. Benitz | Page last modified: |
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Transcription:
Transcribers’ Notes: As this diary was hand-written, certain liberties were taken in formatting the text to this page:
No names were withheld to protect any innocence. (Transcribed by: René A. Benitz.)
Contents
S.S. Arizona - Oakland to PanamaOakland, July 28 - 1874.
This is our last day in California, as we start tomorrow. I arose this morning
at about six o’clock, and went to the butcher this morning. I took two pills
this morning, and one last night. After breakfast I went to the Grocery store.
This forenoon I took my pistol a part, but could not put it together again, so
I paid 10¢ to the machinest to put it together
again, leaving me .45¢ We carried all the trunks,
etc, down stairs this morning. This afternoon I had my hair cut, and mother
gave me .35¢, making me 80¢.
This afternoon I helped to tear up two carpets. After supper I went to the
post office, and also bid good bye to Beels. At eight o’clock I went after the
“Boys’ and Girls’ Weekly,” but as it had not yet come, I went again half an
hour later. Williamses came this evening, and I and Charley walked up Broadway
with them, and bid them farewell. There were a good many visitors here this
evening. It was a very disagreeable day.
Pacific Mail Steamship Co.
San Francisco docks
Brannan Street, c.1864
the 2 trans-Pacific paddle steamers are unidentfied.
(Source: Bancroft Library, Univ. of California at Berkeley
via Wikipedia)
Wednesday July 29- 1874.
Off the coast of California on the Steamer ‘Arizona’. I got up this morning at
about quarter to five, and put on my sunday clothes. Today we commenced the
trip to South America, Before breakfast (6:30) I helped to carry trunks to the
sidewalk to be taken by the express wagon. Before breakfast I wrote a very
short letter to Mr. Howard, and then took it to the post office. Willie rode
on the express wagon to San Francisco. Before eight o’clock we all walked to
the depot, and then took the 7:50 train and steamer for San Francisco. I and
Frank walked to the steamer ‘Arizona’ while the rest rode in a hack. I and
Frank and Herman are going to sleep in one room, No. 5. About an hour after we
came on board, many of our friends came to see us. there were Mr. and Mrs. Flatt, Nettie and Dr. Verhave, Harvey
Burdell, Dr. and Mrs. Burdell, Mr. and Mrs. Shussler and Bella Welham, Annie
Menges, Mr. Sharp, Mrs. Delgar, and Mr. Behrens, Mr. Helmke, Mr. Parker, and
Theodore Hardwig. Dr. Cole is going on the same steamer, and the steamer was
crowded with his friends, and he also had a band playing. At twenty minutes
past twelve o’clock, the steamer cast loose from the wharf, and a cannon was
shot on board, and then we slowly steamed out of the Harbor. Good bye Oakland
and friends; never expect to see you again. We passed Ft. Point at ten minutes
past one, and through Golden Gate twenty minutes past one. We passed Pescadero
about three o’clock. We have been up to the present time (4:P.M.) in sight of
land, and have felt no symptons of sea sickness. At about two oclock they had
dinner and at six, supper. They have very good things to eat. After supper I
and Josephine walked about the deck, arm-in-arm. At about seven a school of
porpoises followed the steamer, they are very gracefull fishes as they jump
out of the water. Their color is brown on top, and white underneath. They
general go two by two, and they followed the ship nearly an hour. We also seen
two whales spouting in the distance. Towards night the sea is getting rougher.
At half past eight I came to my room, after waiting a while for a lantern. I
am going to sleep on top, Frank in the middle, and Herman underneath. It was a
very pleasant day, and they all say it couldn’t have better for the beginning
of a voyage.
Daughter Josephine’s 1874 Album includes pictures of some of the people listed above.
Thursday, July 30.
When I got up this morning (6:40) we were out of sight of land, and have been
up to this time (10 A.M). I slept pretty well last night. Before breakfast (8
A.M.) I and Charlie walked about the steamer. After breakfast I read the “Wild
Oats” on deck. Before dinner I sat on deck and read “Boy’s and Girl’s Weekly.”
At twelve o’clock the steamer had gone 250 miles, and was in latitude 34° 02´
and longitude 121° 02´. After dinner I walked around the steerage, and looked
at the engine, and then I held some worsted for Josephine. Afterwards I walked
around a while with Charlie, and then heard a man play on the piano. I seen a
couple of more whales blowing in the distance this afternoon. At four o’clock
precisely they had a false alarm of fire to train the chinamen what to do in
case of fire. They rushed to the boats, buckets, and squirted with the hose
into the sea. Nothing of notice occured before supper. After supper I walked
around the lower deck with Charley, and then I walked alone a good while, and
then I went into the parlor and heard Hammercity play on the piano. I went to
bed at half past six. We received our eating tickets today. We all sit
together on one table. It is getting warmer today, though the sun hardly
appeared
Friday, July 31 - 1874.
10:20 A.M. Off the southern coast of California. I got up this morning, after
a restless night, at half past six, and then walked around the steamer with
Charlie, Before breakfast I seen a flying fish skimming above the water for a
distance of about fifty feet. It had four wings or fins; two above its tail,
and two at its shoulders, and it was about eight inches long. This forenoon I
walked around, read “Harpers Magazine,” and seen the captain take the
observations. At twelve o’clock we had run 261 miles in the last 24 hours, and
were in latitude 30° - 25´ and longitude 118° - 08´. The Arizona burns forty
tons of coal per day. This afternoon I walked around the deck, and also read.
At five o’clock we had a supper consisting of – clam soup, deep sea
water bass, roast beef, tea and cake, and mush
melon. After supper I walked around the upper deck, until 8 o’clock when I
went to bed. It was a moderately cold, the sun not coming at all. At about 10
o’clock A.M. we were oposite the boundary line of Mexico and California,
though we were out of sight of land.
Saturday. August 1. 1874.
Off the coast of lower California, 4th day at
sea. I got up this morning at seven o’clock, and eat an orange. At half past
eight o’clock we had a breakfast, consisting of – Beef steak, sausages, fried
rice, and coffee. This forenoon I seen some more flying fish. At noon we were
in latitude 27° - 17´ and longitude 115° - 15´ and had run 246 miles in the
last 24 hours, making 757 miles from San Francisco. This forenoon I passed in
sitting on deck, and walking around, and after dinner I read – “the Knights of
Pythia’s” or “put up.” They flying fishes have
no wings only fins. They jump out of the water and the winds blows them along,
like a kite. They can stay out of the water as long as their fins are wet. The
afternoon passed very lonesomely; this thing – is getting very monotonous,
Nothing in sight but water and sky or fog. This afternoon was very hot, but
this forenoon was rather cold, without any sun, After supper I walked around a
while, and then looked at some papers,
Sunday, August 2nd 1874.
Off the coast of Lower California. I went to bed last night at half past
seven, and arose this morning at about eight after a restless night, and
walked about the ship with Charlie before a breakfast, which consisted of
Beef-steak, sausages, omlets, and tea. At 10:30 A.M. they had divine service
on board, but I did not attend. They stretched the awning across the upper
deck this morning. At noon we had run 260 miles in the last 24 hours, making
it 1017 miles from San Francisco, and were in latitude 24° - 07´ and in
longitude 112°. This afternoon I lounged around upon the upper deck. At about
seven P.M. the wake of the steamer was covered with phosforescence, it looked
like the stars, and was very pretty. After supper I went on the bow of the
steamer and heard some young men singing. There was a hot south wind this
evening. It was a very hot day. I bought an apple for 5¢
today, leaving me 75¢.
Monday, August 3d 1874.
In Gulf of California. We are in the Tropic zone today. It was dreadful hot
last night, and I did not sleep much. I arose this morning at about seven
o’clock, and eat an orange before breakfast. I put on my linnen coat and
slippers today, as it was very warm. This forenoon I walked and sat upon the
upper deck. At noon we had gone 244 miles in the last 24 hours, making it 1261
miles from San Francisco. This afternoon I lounged about the deck, and also
tried to sleep in my bed, but not succeeding in that I fell aseep in a chair
on deck. I felt a little seasick this after noon and vomited a little after
supper. It was a very hot day.
SS Arizona’s
sister ship SS Montana
Wooden side-wheeled steamers built for the Pacific
Mail Steamship Co., both launched 1865 & scrapped 1877
2,676 tons, 318 feet
(Source: Univ.Wyoming, American Heritage Ctr.)
Tuesday, August 4th 1874.
Off coast of Mexico. 7th day at sea. I got up at
about seven o’clock this morning, and eat an apple before breakfast. I bought
2 apples yesterday from the barber for 10¢
leaving me 65¢. This forenoon I laid on a bench on
deck; as I feel sea sickish today, and after supper I vomited a little, I eat
a very little the whole day: Beefsteak at breakfast; soup at dinner, and roast
beef at supper. After supper we met the steamer ‘Montana’ from Panama for San
Francisco. Our steamer stopped, and a boat was lowered to deliver the mail,
Before dinner we saw a great many porpoises around the steamer, The whole
after noon I laid in my bunk. At noon we had run 265 miles in the last 24
hours, making it 1526 miles from San Francisco, and were in latitude 18° 54´
and longitude 104° 48´ It was a very hot day.
Wednesday August 5 - 1874
Off coast of Mexico. 6th day at sea. I slept last
night on top of the cover as it was so hot. I put on very little clothing
today: thin pants, shirt, linnen coat, and stockings and slippers. This
forenoon and after noon I did nothing particularly. We had supper at 4 o’clock
this afternoon instead of five. We were in sight of land all day yesterday,
and today we could see the hills very plainly. At noon today we had travelled
255 miles in the last 24 hours, making it 1781 miles from San Francisco, and
were in latitude 17° - 05´, and in longitude 100° - 46´. This evening we
arrived at Acapulco: at five o’clock we entered
the very muchly hidden harbor of Acapulco, which was guarded by a light house.
We came to anchor at about half a mile from the town. As soon as the steamer
stopped the harbor officials, came around the ship and then the passenger
boats, and fruit canoes. The canoes were hollowed out logs, and were propelled
by the Mexicans and indians with paddles. Permission being obtained from the
captain, we got into a boat and were rowed to the town. Josephine, Willie,
Frank and I went on shore. Previous to going mother gave me $1.00 making me
$1.05. We had to pay 50¢ apiece for the passage to
and from shore. We immediately walked up the town, and then around it. We were
followed by a great many boys and girls who wanted to sells us flowers,
shells, small parrots, squirrels, and fruit. I bought a string of shells (10¢)
which I gave to Johnnie, and then I bought a basket full of shells (25)¢,
and then afterwards I bought some aguavas (10)¢
We seen two ruins of churches, destroyed by earth quakes. The streets are very
narrow, about 10 to 20 ft. wide. The roofs are generally covered with tiles or
were thatched. We seen several naked little boys, and they all have very white
and even teeth. We seen several tall trees with cocoanuts on them. The town is
guarded by a large low forth, in front of which
were many large live oaks. Every thing looked very green; quite different from
California. When the cannon sounded, we got into the boats, and were rowed
back to the steamer, We were on shore about 45 minutes. On the steamer I
bought 20 oranges for 25¢, and a couple of bananas
for 10¢, leaving me altogether 35¢.
At about 7:30 P.M. the steamer steamed out of the harbor again. The harbor of
Acapulco is nearly land-locked, and when we were in it we could not tell where
the entrance was. It was a hot day; 85° Fahrenheit when I got up.
Thursday August 6 - 1874.
Off coast of southern Mexico. It rained a good deal last night. This forenoon
I listened to others talking, eat oranges, bananas, and drank lemonade. At
noon we had run 215 miles in the last 24 hours, and were 1996 miles from San
Francisco. And were in Latitude 15° 23´ and in Longitude 97° 30´. This
afternoon I did nothing particularly. After supper I staid up on deck. I did
not eat much the last three or fours day for my
health. At about noon we ran into a heavy rain which lasted for about an hour.
It was a pretty hot day.
Friday August 7 - 1874
I arose this morning, after a restless night, at about 7 o’clock, and eat an
orange before breakfast. This forenoon I principally read the “Jolly Joker”, a
borrowed paper. At noon today we had run 247 miles in the last 24 hours,
making it 2243 miles from San Francisco. And were in Latitude 13° 38´ and in
Longitude 93° 39´. This afternoon we seen several whales. At noon today we
were off the isthmus of Tehauntapec. At about eleven o’clock it rained again.
This afternoon I laid on my bed, read “Days Doings”, and did nothing. After
supper I went on deck, and heard the people talk on religion, and then stayed
in the dining room. It was a moderately hot day. Nearly all the workmen and
waiters on this steamer (Arizona) are Chinamen.
Saturday August 8 - 1874.
Off coast of Central America. Frank’s bunk broke down last night, so he had to
sleep in the dining room. When I got up this morning, we were in an awful
thunder storm. It thundered very loudly for about an hour, and it lightened
very near the ship. This forenoon I read some papers, and this afternoon I
studied Spanish a little while. After supper I read a charming story in
‘Harper’s Magazine. It was a pleasant day, not too hot or too cold. At noon
today we had traveled 225 miles in the last 24 hours, making it 2468 miles
from San Francisco, and were in Latitude 11° 47´ and in Longitude 90° 19´
Sunday August 9 - 1874.
Off coast of Central America. 11th day at sea.
When I got up this morning I had a fearful head ache, and from it I was sea
sick all forenoon, and threw up a great deal. Before breakfast I eat an
orange. At 10:30 A.M. I attended divine service; the surgeon only read some
chapters out of the bible. The whole afternoon I lay on my bed, and tried to
learn the Spanish numerals; I nearly know them now. At noon today we had
travelled 205 miles in the last 24 hours, and were 2673 miles from San
Francisco; and were in Latitude 10° 03´ and in Longitude 87° 19´. We had a
very good dinner at five o’clock: I had roast pork, oxtail soup, ice cream,
pudding, cream pie, cakes, etc. After supper I walked about the deck, and
heard some boys and girls talk and laugh near my room (No. 5).
Monday - August 10 1874.
Off coast of Central America – Pacific Ocean. 12th
day at sea. I arose this morning at about seven o’clock, and eat a couple of
oranges before breakfast. We were in sight of land all day: woody hills. I did
nothing particularly this forenoon and afternoon. We were expecting to meet a
steamer today, but none came. Expect to be in Panama tomorrow night. I went
and got Mothers blanket and pillow for her this afternoon, for which she gave
me 15¢, making me 50¢
At noon today we had travelled 250 miles in the last 24 hours, and were 3123
miles from San Francisco. And we were in Latitude 8° 09´, and in Longitude 83°
34´. We met the steamer “China” about 8 P.M. We sent a rocket up, and fired
two blue lights, but did not stop. The other steamer was far off and replied
by setting a blue light off. This even There is
an amateur minstrel troupe on board, and this evening they sang songs, and
recited poems etc. They winded up by singing “Auld Lang Syne”. They were
finished at 11:30 P.M., and at time I went to bed. It was a very hot day.
Tuesday August 11 - 1874
Off In Panama Bay before Panama. 13th
day at sea It rained hard all forenoon. And thundered and lightened too; but
we staid under the awning. We were in Panama Bay all day. Before dinner we
seen two large whales near the steamer, and many porpoises. At noon today we
had run 266 miles in the last 24 hours and had gone in this voyage so far 3389
miles. This afternoon I took a sleep until 4 P.M. on my bed. We were in plain
sight of land all day. It appeared woody hills. At 4 P.M. we commenced to see
the many islands before Panama. And soon we could see the P.M.S.S. co’s
Workshops. At about 5 P.M. we could see Panama, and at six o’clock we
coul dropped Anchor three miles from Panama. We
have charming scenery arounds us: a large green island less than 100 yds.
behind us. and islands with houses on to the left of us. As we we were coming
in a United States man of war had a band playing “Mollie Darling” which
sounded very well on the water A few boats came around the steamer. And at
about 8 P.M. a half a dozen officers of the Richmond came aboard.
Panama City, 1850’s
from the sea
Large building & dock at right are the Panama Railroad’s Pacific Terminal
Panama City, 1850’s
RR Terminus, from land
(Source: www.thepanamanews.com)
Wednesday August 12 - 1874.
Panama Harbor on board of S.S. Arizona. This morning early: 4:30 A.M. I could
see the natives in their boats, hanging around the steamer. Long before
breakfast, a large flat boat came alongside, and an engine on a boat alongside
of that and began unloading the steamer of its wine casks, and hides. This
morning they all, but Charley and I went to Panama: part in boats, and part in
the little steamer; but when they came back again this afternoon they gave
very discouraging reports of the town: of its uncleanliness, and its high
prices of everything. At about eleven o’clock I and Charley and two girls got
a native to row us to an island where Louisa ____ lives, for $1.00 for all,
and back again, We walked along the shore and picked shells up until we got to
Louisa’s house, where we went in for a little while, and then with her we
walked through the cool, thick, woods to another part of the beech. We then
walked back again to the boat, and then the native rowed us back to the ship.
The trees were very low, and close together and
so where there was no path, it was imposible to go through. We missed our
dinner in going to the island, but I made it about even by eating a very
hearty supper. When I came home I fished from the side of the steamer and was
rewarded by catching a large cat fish – about a foot long – which I gave to a
Chinaman. It rained a little before supper. It was a warm day.
Thursday, August 13 - 1874.
In Panama Bay, before Panama, on board of steamer ‘Arizona’. I was up this
morning at about seven o’clock, and watched them unload the steamer, before
breakfast Rhight after breakfast I got a boat
to take I and Johnnie and Herman to the nearest island; where we walked along
the beach, and tried to find shells. We walked along, until we got to some
large rocks, where were some little ponds, where we got some star fish,
sea-eggs, and live shells, and then we were rowed back again. I took off my
boots and stockings in going after the shells in the ponds. When I came back
again Willie and Mr. Hamerstede who had hired a row boat, took me into their
boat, and I helped to row to the island where Louisa lives. We walked along
the beach to the other island and then back to the boat and then we rowed back
to the steamer. I climbed up to the steamer on a rope. We were just in time
for dinner. This afternoon I did nothing particularly: laid in my bed, and
fished a little. A good many rumors are afloat, respecting our departure: some
say we are going tomorrow at 11 A.M. others say Saturday 5 A.M. and others,
Monday. Mother went to Panama in the steamer today, and came back before
supper. It was a hot day. It rained a good deal this after noon.
Friday, August 14 - 1874.
In Panama Bay before Panama, on steamer Arizona. I did not do any thing today.
This forenoon we were going to hire a boat, to ride around, but could not get
any. This afternoon I staid on the upper deck, and watched the others knock
hats off. This evening the Brass band, and officers of the frigate ‘Richmond’
came aboard, and played a little, while the others danced. The minstrel troupe
on board, also gave an entertainment: consisting of songs, and recitations.
They continued until 12 o’clock, when I went to bed. We are to go across the
isthmus of Panama tomorrow morning early. It was a very hot day
SS Acapulco
Trial Run - Oct.1873
Description of Accomodations
(Source: New York Times)
Saturday, August 15th 1874.
On board steamer Acapulco before Aspinwall. The
gong sounded for us to get up this morning at half past four, and we had
breakfast at five. After breakfast we all went on a little steamer, which took
us to Panama. They landed us at the Company’s warehouses, which was also the
depot for the Panama R.R. In getting out of the
steamer
The soldiers to prevent us from smuggling things in, lined the steamer to the
depot. The cars started, and we were whirled to Aspinwall a distance of 47
miles, which we made in 2 hours and 45 minutes. I stood on the platform most
of the time. The road runs through forests, swamps, luxuriant vegetation, etc.
We passed a few clumps of houses, here and there; most were covered with
leaves etc, and others were tiled. At quarter past ten we arrived at
Aspinwall, where the Acapulco laid. As soon as
the cars stopped a great many niggers crowded in to carry our baggage, and
they were very bold. We walked to the Acapulco, which laid at the wharf, about
100 yards from the depot. The Acapulco is an
iron steamship, screw propeller, of 3000 tons, and is about a year old. It is
a magnificent steamer, and is a great deal prettier than the other steamer.
TIty hase
white sailors, and black waiters. I and Charley are going to have one room No.
45. Before dinner Father, Willie and I went into Aspinwall to buy some oranges
and limes. It is a very miserable and stinking place. Nearly all the
inhabitants are niggers, and they are very impudent, We went up one street and
down another. We went into a saloon and had a drink of iced lemonade. There is
one large two storied stone building, it is 300 ft. long. Most of the stores
are fruit stores, and saloons, We got 50 oranges, and 100 limes, and then
returned to the steamship and had dinner. Mother gave me 40¢
after dinner, making me 90¢. After dinner I and
Johnnie went into Aspinwall, and walked around the town, and I bought some
cakes for 10¢, leaving me 80¢.
While we were in the town, it began raining very hard, and so we had to wait
about an hour, before we could get on board again. The rest of the afternoon I
walked about the wharf and seen them loading the steamship with Bananas, and
canned salmon. After supper the steamer started for New York. It was a hot
day. It rained while we were ashore 8 inches. Once more on the sea.
Sunday, August 16 1874.
In Caribbean Sea, per Steamship Acapulco. When I got up this morning I was
quite sea sick, and threw up a good deal this forenoon, and right after
supper. I laid down in my room at about 11 A.M. until about 2 P.M. so missing
my dinner. This afternoon I staid on the upper deck, and laid down on the
benches. We were out of sight of land all day. At noon we were 191 miles from
Aspin—
Monday, August 17 - 1874.
In Caribbean Sea, per Steamship Acapulco, I got up this morning at about six
o’clock and eat an orange before breakfast. I did not do anything particularly
all day, but lay around the deck. At noon today we had gone 240 miles in the
last 24 hours, making it 431 miles from Aspinwall, and were in Latitude 15°
40´ and in Longitude 76° - 31´ This evening, long after supper, I was half
laying down, on a bench on deck, when I suddenly fell asleep and when awoke
again, I could not find my hat again; and I
suppose the wind blew it off into the sea. It was a hot day, but very windy
all day, it was a head wind, and kept the steamer back all
good deal
Tuesday, August 18 - 1874.
I got up this morning at about six o’clock, after a good sleep, and eat an
orange before breakfast. This is the 3d day at
sea. This forenoon I laid about the deck. I wore Charley’s straw hat this
forenoon, as I had no more hats, but this afternoon a sailor found my hat on
deck and gave it to me; so it was not lost. At noon today we had travelled 248
miles in the last 24 hours, and were 679 miles from Aspinwall, and were in
Latitude 19° 20´ and in Longitude 74° 26´. This morning early we were in sight
of San Domingo, and this afternoon, of Cuba. This afternoon I laid on a bench
on deck. It was quite rough this evening, and the steamer rolled a good deal.
This evening a booby alighted on a mast, and a sailor climbed after it, and
caught it. After supper I laid on the deck, and then went down to the parlor
to hear the minstrel troupe perform. They have the sails up all the time now.
August 16 - 1874.
Latitude - 11° 57´
Longitude - 78° 01´
Distance travelled. 191 miles
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Aug. 17 - Latitude - 15° 40´
Longitude - 76° 31´
Dist travelled - 240 miles
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 431 miles
Aug. 18 - Latitude - 19° 20´
Longitude - 74° 26´
Dist travelled - 248
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 679 mils from A–
Aug - 19. Latitude - 23° 52´
Longitude - 74° 24´
Distance gone 273 miles
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
952 miles from Aspinwall.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Aug. 20 - Latitude - 28° 36´
Longitude - 74° 35´
Distance gone - 285 miles
1273 mils from Aspinwall
Aug. 21 Latitude - 33° 06
Longitude - 74° 29´
Distance Gone 270
Aug. 22 - Lat. 38°
Long. 74° 10
Dist gone. 296
Dist from port.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Captain Seabury of Arizona.
Commodore Gray '' Acapulco.
Captain
Wednesday - August 19 - 1874.
Off coast of southern Florida, on Steamship ‘Acapulco’. 4th
day from Aspinwall, 21st day from San Francisco.
When I arose this morning (6 A.M). it was very quite, but after breakfast it
got very rough and the steamer rolled very much. I staid on the upper deck all
day to keep from getting sick, but when I went down to wash for lunch I
vomited right off. At noon today we had run 273 miles in the last 24 hours,
and were 952 miles from Aspinwall. We were in sight of
land some islands today, At noon we were in Latitude 23° 52´ and in
Longitude 74° 24´. It rained several times today. This evening I staid on
deck.
Thursday, August 20 - 1874.
Off coast Alab Georgia, on Steamship ‘Acapulco’
5th day from Aspinwall. 22nd
day from San Francisco. It was not so rough today as yesterday. This forenoon
I staid on deck, and seen them play cards. At noon today we had run 285 miles
in the last 24 hours, and were 1273 miles from Aspinwall, and were in latitude
28° 36´ and in longitude 74° 35´. This afternoon I laid down on deck, and in
the parlor and tried to sleep. After supper, which by-the-way consisted of
‘turkey, greeen turtle, pudding, cakes, and ice
cream, and nuts, I walked up and down the deck, and heard the ladies sing. It
was a pleasant day.
Friday, August 21st 1874.
Off coast of South or North Carolina, on Steamship ‘Acapulco’,
6th day from Aspinwall, 23d
day from San Francisco. W I did not sleep very
well last night, probably the result of eating too much for supper. This
forenoon and afternoon I did nothing particularly, tried to sleep in the upper
parlor, and sat around, etc. At noon today we had run 270 miles in the last 24
hours, and making it 1543 miles from Aspinwall,
and were in latitude 33° 06´ and in longitude 74° 29´. This evening I sat on
deck with the rest of the family, and sat
walked around. The sea was very smooth today, as smooth as a glass. It was a
delightful day, pretty hot.
SS Acapulco
ship’s manifest
Saturday. August 22 1874.
7th day from Aspinwall and 24th
day from San Francisco. On Steamship Acapulco off coast New Jersey. Last night
we were off Cape Hatteras, and it was pretty rough, but as I was in bed I did
not feel it much. I was up pretty late this morning, but I was in plenty time
for breakfast. We seen a good many sailing vessels in the distance today.
Expect to be in New York tonight. At noon today we had gone 296 miles in the
last 24 hours, (pretty good run) and were in latitude 38° and were in
longitude 74° 10´ This forenoon and afternoon I laid about and heard the
others talking. This afternoon I got windy and rained hard too, This evening
we had turkey and ice cream. This evening we seen several lighthouses, a sign
of being near New York. After supper I walked up and down deck, and then went
to bed at about 8:30 P.M.
Busch’s Hotel
Hudson & 3rd.Street
Hoboken was part of the port of New
York & New Jersey, predominantly German
(Source: US Library of Congress)
Sunday August 23d 1874.
Busch’s Hotel, Hoboken N.J. near New York. I could not sleep after about 2
o’clock, so I and Charley got up at half past four. We took in a pilot about 2
A.M. I and Charley looked at the ships, we were passing, and at the land. At
about six o’clock we passed several forts. At about 5 A.M. we passed Sandy
Hook which is 20 miles from New York. At 6:30 we had to wait for the health
officer to come on board and then we had to wait again about 7 o’clock before
the dock, for a steamer to get out of the way. At 7:30 A.M. we were fastened
to the wharf. We waited for about an hour and as uncle did not appear we
carried our baggage on to the wharf, and I helped to uncheck our baggage.
Father got an express wagon to take our things to Hoboken, and engaged two
hacks to take us over. We got into the hacks and were driven on board the
Hoboken steamer, and were taken across the Hudson river, (about 1½ miles) to
Hoboken, and were driven to Busch’s Hotel, where we are going to stay. Last
night on board the steamer, I had my pants hanging in my state room by my
window, and in the pants, in my purse, I had 80¢.
And this morning when I looked into my purse all the money was gone; so I
suppose one of the negro waiters stole it. And I have no more money left. This
forenoon I and Charley took a walk up and down the street. Hoboken is a very
pretty little city of about 20,000 inhabitants and is right across the Hudson
river from New York about 1½ miles. After dinner Frank, Charlie and I walked
way up the street, and back by the north river. It was a splendid through
groves of large trees. The rest of the afternoon we staid in the hotel. Mr.
Busch is an immense man and weighs 420 pounds. I and Johnnie are going to
sleep in one bed in our room, and Charlie and Herman in the other. It was very
cold this morning early, but this afternoon it was pleasanter. Nearly every
one in Hoboken is German, and today large numbers came from New York.
Monday. August 24 - 1874.
Busch’s Hotel. Hoboken, N.J. near New York. Last night a burglar tried to get
into our room, with the aid of a pair of nippers, but the key would not turn
for him and the door was bolted, so he left. This morning we could see the
marks on the key made by the nippers. After breakfast I and Charley went to
New York. Father gave us 75¢ apiece. We took the
Hoboken ferry for New York which cost us 3¢
apiece leaving me 72¢. We had our money in
greenbacks and nickels. We then went on board of the steamship ‘Idaho’ to see
if one of Charlie’s friends was on board. We then walked around town looking
at the cutlery and gun, stores, until we got to the Fulton ferry, when we
returned back to the Hoboken ferry and back on the steamer to Hoboken. We got
very tired walking on the hard streets, and were very glad to get just in time
for dinner. My expenses were: I lent 25¢ to
Charlie for him to buy a compass, 1¢ for an apple,
and 3¢ again for the ferry, making 32¢
leaving me 43¢. This afternoon I and Charley
walked about the business part of Hoboken, and I bought 3 Boys & Girls
Weeklies for 15¢, leaving me 28¢.
After supper we all took a walk along the river and back by the principal
street. I foregot to say yesterday that uncle and Mr. Mahrer came to the hotel
to see us. They arrived last thursday, and are staying in New York. Mr. Mahrer
and wife, who is father’s sister are also going with us to South America.
Today uncle and Mr. and Mrs. Mahrer came to see us. We got another room in
which are three beds, for Willie, Charlie and I. It was a pleasant day.
Tuesday, August 25th 1874.
Busch’s Hotel, Hoboken N.J. near New York. I went to bed last night at about
eight o’clock, and in a little while a large band of music went past. After
breakfast father gave me $1.50 making me $1.78 Frank, Willie, and I went to
New York today. We took the Barclay street ferry, which landed us way in the
southern part of the city; And then we walked up to the Acapulco, and then way
down to the office of Brazil steamship line, in Bowling Green, and found that
the price to Rio Janeiro is $200. and then we walked way up to the end of
Broadway, stopping at Remington’s gun store, and priced the guns. We then took
the horse cars for Central Park, where we walked around the delightful walks,
to the menagerie, where we looked at all the animals: rhinocerous, lions,
elephants, alligators, etc. We then walked around to the beautiful lake, and
looked at the boats. All the walks in the garden are made of asphaltum. They
are some beautiful summer houses in the garden. We then went into the casino,
a beautiful eating house, and had a cup of chocolate, and a sandwich for 30¢.
We then walked up to the deep dark cave, and then to the beautiful stone
castle. We then came outside and Frank bought some doughnuts, which we eat in
the park. There are some nice fountains in the park. We then took the horse
cars for the ferry, and the ferry for home, and arrived just in time for
supper. My expenses were, 6¢ to and from New York,
30¢ lunch, and 5¢
horse cars, and a drink of mineral soda in the park, 10¢,
leaving me $1.27. After supper I and Charlie went down town and I bought a
Boys & Girls Weekly for 5¢, leaving me $1.22 It
was a pleasant day.
Wednesday, August 26th 1874.
Busch Hotel Hoboken N.J. opposite New York. Today
every
This forenoon every body went to New York but me, and I staid at home and
wrote a 6 page letter to Mr. Howard. I also bought an apple 1¢,
and a Boys’ & Girls weekly, for 5¢, leaving me
$1.16. After dinner I and Charley went to New York, and walked to the Castle
Garden, and then to the Fulton ferry, and then back to Hoboken. My expenses we
6¢ to & from New York, leaving me $1.10. After
supper I and Charlie went down town and I bought 84 feet of strong fish line
for 60¢, leaving me 50¢.
Afterwards I walked around town a little, to pass away the time. It was a cool
day. Charley paid me back my 25¢ today, making me
75¢.
Thursday, August 27th 1874.
Busch Hotel, Hoboken N.J. opposite New York.
This forenoon I stayed at the hotel, and did nothing particularly. We are
going to Southampton, England, and from there to Buenos Ayres. The steamer
Wesser is going to start on Saturday, and we are going on it, as no steamer is
going to South America, and no sailing vessel will take us. After dinner we
went with father down town, and carried back a new trunk for Josephine. We
then went on board of the Wesser, which is in Hoboken, it is nearly as nice as
the
Acapulco. We are going in the 2nd
cabin. which costs $60 each. I and Charley then went to New York, and I bought
6 hooks, for 12¢, and lent 40¢
to Charley to buy a line. We then came back again. My expenses were 6¢,
to & from New York, 12¢ hooks, and 40¢
to Charley, and I bought 10¢ worth of peanuts,
making 68¢, leaving me 7¢.
After supper I and Charley took a long walk out of town, and were back by
eight o’clock. Father today bought 4 Winchester rifles to be sent over
tomorrow. Before going to bed I read a “Boys & Girls Weekly” or two. It was a
pleasant day, with a cool morning.
Friday, August 28th 1874.
Busch Hotel, Hoboken N.Y. opposite New York. This forenoon Father, Frank,
Willie, Charlie, and I went to New York. We took the ferry over, and there,
walked to a gun store on Broadway, and as our guns were not yet finished we
went to a banking house, and father had his money fixed.
An We then went into a saloon and had a glass of soda and then us three
youngest came home, in time for dinner. My expenses were 3¢
from New York to Hoboken, leaving me 4¢, and I
bought an apple this afternoon for 2¢ leaving me 2¢.
This afternoon I stayed around the hotel, reading the ‘Boy’s & Girl’s Weekly’.
Mother and the children went over to Central Park today, and had a good time.
There are a great many street musicians in Hoboken. This evening Mr. & Mrs.
Muller came to see us. It was a very pleasant. I bought candy for 2¢
leaving me 0¢
New York Departure
30 August, 1874
(Source: New York Times)
Saturday August 29 - 1874.
Off Sandy Hook, in Steamship Weser, bound for
Southampton & Bremen. Today we started for Southampton, and from there to
Buenos Ayres. This forenoon we staid around the hotel fixing the baggage, etc.
Father bought a barrel of apples to take along this morning. After breakfast I
went with him, to buy a checker board and papers. After dinner we went down to
the wharf and went aboard of the Wesser. The steamer was full of people, but
they most of them went on shore again. At about
3 o’clock the steamer started, after we said good bye to Hammerstede, There
are 12 of us on the steamer; our family, uncle,
and Mr. Mahrer and wife. The Wesser is a
steamship of the North German Lloyd, of 3000 tons burden, and 700 horsepower.
It is an iron screw propeller. We have breakfast at 7:30 A.M. dinner at 12.
coffee at 3 P.M. and tea at 7 P.M. There is a band of music on board, composed
of waiters, but it is not a crack band, and they play every day at 11 o’clock.
The 2nd
cabin where we sleep is down below. I and Frank and another young man are
going to sleep in one room. The rooms are very large, and have 4 bunks.
Sunday, August 30 - 1874.
On Atlantic ocean, on Steamship Weser for Southampton. I got up this morning
at about six o’clock, and stayed on deck until breakfast. This forenoon I read
the ‘Boys & Girls Weekly’, and this afternoon I read ‘Harpers’ magazine, etc.
It was a cold day, and rained a very little. The steamer smokes a good deal,
and drops much soot, which dirties everything. We are out of sight of land
today. At noon today we had run 227 miles in the last 18½ hours, and were in
latitude 40° 41´ and in longitude 68° 53´. After supper I walked with
Josephine.
Monday, August 31 - 1874.
On Atlantic ocean on steamship Weser for Southampton & Bremen Today I read all
day, and laid on the sofa in my room, It was a pleasant day.
Miserable day, cold, drizzly and windy At noon
today we had run 281 miles in the last 24 hours, and were in latitude 41° 32´
and in longitude 62° 47´. The seasick ones are mother Aunt Mahrer, and Herman,
The sea today and yesterday was smooth and like a glass.
Tuesday Sept. 1, 1874.
On Atlantic ocean, on steamship Weser bound for Southampton & Bremen. I passed
the day about the same as yesterday, After supper I went into the smoking
room, and heard them talking of 1848 in California, and then I went into the
dining room, and heard the fiddlers playing. After that I went up on deck,
where the wind was blowing furiously, and then went to bed. It was a miserable
day, cold, rainy, and windy. I listened to the music this evening in the
salon.
Tuesday Sept 1.
P.S.
We passed a great many 13 or 14 fishing-smacks
this forenoon, catching cod fish. They are small schooners, and had little
boats out. We also seen great many porpoises today. There was a thick fog this
afternoon, and we blowed our whistle to avoid collissions. A great many stormy
petrels followed the ship this evening. They are pretty, small birds of the
shape of a
Wednesday, Sept, 2. 1874.
On Atlantic ocean on board the Steamship Weser bound for Southampton & Bremen.
This forenoon I staid up on deck, and read, and this afternoon and evening I
was in the Smoking room, and also heard the band playing in the salon. It was
quite rough today. At noon today we had run 285 miles in the last 24 hours and
were 1091 miles from New York, and were in latitude 44° 56´ and in longitude
50° 27´. It was a miserable day.
Thursday, Sept 3d. 1874.
In the middle of the Atlantic ocean, on board of the steamship Weser, bound
for Southampton, and Bremen. I got up this morning in time for breakfast which
consisted of beefsteak, and eggs. This forenoon I staid on deck, and read, and
eat apples. This afternoon I slept on the lounge, and drank chocolate. After
supper I staid up on deck, and walked around with Charlie. At noon today we
had run 295 miles in the last 24 hours, and were 1386 miles from New York. And
were in latitude 47° 2´, and were in longitude 44° 3´. The weather was
miserable today, and the waves were pretty high.
Friday, Sept, 4. 1874.
In the middle of the Atlantic ocean, on board of the steamship Weser bound for
Southampton & Bremen. I got up this morning just in time for breakfast, after
a sleepless night. This forenoon I stayed up on deck and read; and I slept
most of the afternoon on the lounge in my room and then read Harpers Magazine
in our easy chair. No ships in sight today. 6th
day from New York. This evening I stayed up on deck, and then went into the
salon to hear the music. At noon today we had run 307
292 miles in the last 24 hours, and were 1678 miles from New York. And were in
latitude 48° 32´ and were in longitude 37° 26´. Last night we seen a very
pretty sun set; the clouds were of all colors, and were nicely arranged. The
weather today was little better today than yesterday, and so were the waves.
Saturday, Sept 5. 1874.
7th day at sea. On the Atlantic ocean on board of
S.S. Weser bound for Southampton & Bremen. I got up this morning at half past
seven and eat a slight breakfast. This forenoon I was up on deck, and seen
several whales. This forenoon father gave me the companie’s guide book, which
is a neat little blue pocket book, and gives descriptions of London & Paris,
has advertisements, and memorandums, and has a track map of the course of the
steamer. This afternoon I staid on deck, and read it. This evening I stayed in
the salon looked at a German bound papers, and
listened to the music of the fiddlers. At noon today we had run 307 miles in
the last 24 hours, and were 1985 miles from New York, and were in latitude 49°
25´ and were in longitude 29° 46´. It was quite a pleasant days
at time, but sometimes it was cold.
Sunday, Sept. 6. 1874.
On board of the S.S. Weser bound for Southampton. 8th
day from New York. This forenoon I sat up on deck, and did nothing
particularly. At 10 o’clock I listened to the band playing on deck. This
afternoon I lounged about the salon, drank coffee, went into the smoking room,
and heard the fellows of the opposite state room crack their jokes, etc. We
seen a good many porpoises this afternoon. This forenoon it was pretty
pleasant, but this afternoon it was miserabley disagreeable, raining, and
foggy. At noon today we had run 308 miles in the last 24 hours, and were 2293
miles from New York. We were, also, in latitude 49° 54´ N. and were in
longitude 21° 52´ W. This evening I listened to the music, and then went to
bed while it was playing yet.
Monday, Sept. 7. 1874.
On board of the S.S. Weser bound for Southampton. near English Channel. 9th
day at sea. This forenoon we seen a great many porpoises swimming near the
steamer. I got up at seven o’clock, and staid on deck until breakfast (7:30).
This forenoon I stayed up on deck, and read. This afternoon I slept in a bunk
in Charlie’s stateroom, until 3:30, and then went on deck, a little while,
looked at two ships in sight, and then went down into the smoking room. At
noon today we had made 315 miles in the last 24 hours and were 480 miles from
Southampton. (We were in latitude 49° 56´, and in longitude 13° 42´. This
forenoon it was very pleasant, but this afternoon it was a cold wind. This
evening the waiters made a collection for the music, father gave $20. This
evening I listened to the music by the fiddlers in the salon, and went to bed
at 10 o’clock.
Tuesday, Sept. 8. 1874.
Off southern coast of England on board of the S.S. Weser bound for
Southampton. 10th day at sea. Expect to be in
Southampton tonight sometime. I got up this morning at about 7 o’clock, and
staid on deck until breakfast. This forenoon I lounged about the deck. At
about 9 o’clock A.M. we could see the island of Scilly near Lands End. And at
about 11 o’clock we could see Lands End, and seen land the rest of the day.
After dinner we could seen cape Lizard which is high hills, and has the
largest light house I ever seen, on it. The hills all the way are divided up
into little fields, which look beautiful. All day, we seen many ships and
steamers. At about two o’clock I took a sleep on the lounge in my room until
coffee (3 P.M.) when weI had coffee, and eat
five coffee cakes. This After that I and
Charlie in his bunks until 5 P.M. I had a head-ache all day. We also seen many
small villages in the sheltered parts of the hills. It was a very pleasant
sunny days. At noon today we had run 312 miles
in the last 24 hours, and we 166 miles from Needles. And we were in Latitude
49° 50´ and in Longitude 5° 38´.
This after After supper I staid in the salon,
played a game of checkers, with a woman, and then listened to the music by the
fiddlers, and went to bed at 9:30 P.M.
SS Boyne
Royal Mail Steam Packet Co.
Launched 1871,
wrecked 1875
3,318 tons, sail & steam
(Source: The Illustrated London News)
Wednesday, Sept. 9. 1874.
On board of S.S. Boyne, bound for Buenos Ayres. In English Channel. Last night
I got up at 11:30 P.M. seen the pilot come aboard in his boat, and then went
to bed again. This morning, when I got up (5:30) we were opposite the great
hospital on the island of Wight, before Southampton. The hospital is an
immense building, the largest in the world, and is built of rock. We slowly
drew up to the wharf at Southampton. We also seen a castle near Southampton,
the queen’s summer residence. At about 6:30 A.M. we were fastened to the
wharf. And then I helped to carry all our baggage on deck. After breakfast we
went on shore to the custom house. Mother had some loose baggage in her hands,
and they would not leave her take it on shore at first, but an officer made it
all right. Father had some difficuly in satisfying the custom house officers’
demands, but £6 did it. Today we also leave for Buenos Ayres. At about 9 A.M.
I went up into the city of Southampton and tried to buy a knife but could find
none. Father also bought tickets for Buenos Ayres $146 a piece. We then went
on a very little steamer, and at 11 A.M. were taken out to the South American
steamer: the Boyne. The Boyne is an iron screw propeller of 3318 tons, and is
3 years old. It is a magnificent steamer. Everything is nice and new. After
dinner I helped to carry our baggage, etc. A beautiful yacht sailed around the
steamer several times. It was a beautiful affair. At about three o’clock the
steamer began to start, and at about four it was going regularly. We could see
land all the evening. At about 5 o’clock we were opposite the Needles, and the
pilot took his leave. This steamer shakes rolls
a good deal, and the rudder makes a good deal of noise. The sea is pretty
rough this evening. We had some difficulty in getting seats for supper, but we
finally got a table for our selves. There are a great number of passengers on
board. There are two bunks in each room, and I and Frank sleep in the same
room. After supper I staid up on deck until 8 o’clock and then went to bed.
Thursday, Sept. 10, 1874.
On board of the S.S. Boyne, bound for Buenos Ayres. In bay of Biscay, off
coast of France. Today the sea was very rough, and the steamer rolled a great
deal. Nearly everybody was sea-sick, and though I was pretty sea sick myself,
I could not help laughing at the men on deck, looking into the water, feeding
the fishes. This forenoon I layed about the deck, and then when the steamer
rolled I would slide to one side of the boat, and then back again. I eat very
little today, only a biscuit, and some bread. This afternoon I layed on the
deck, and held on to the iron works, so as not to slide away. This evening it
was so rough that the plates hopped out of the partitions on the table, and a
great many were broken. It was pretty cold all day. At noon today we had run
197 miles in the last 20 hours, and were in Latitude
and were in Longitude.
Friday, Sept. 11. 1874.
On board of the S.S. ‘Boyne’ bound for Buenos Ayres, in Bay of Biscay off
coast of France. 2nd day at sea. Today it was not
quite so rough as yesterday, but still it was pretty rough. I got up this
morning at about 8 o’clock and staid on deck, until breakfast. This forenoon I
laid on a sort of wood work in the back part of the steamer, and tried to
sleep, and this afternoon I did the same, only I tried to read. At noon today
we had run 268 miles in the last 24 hours, were 160 miles from Cape
Finnistere, and 401 from Lisbon. We were in Latitude 45° 10´, and in longitude
8° 51´. After supper I sat up on deck. It is getting a little warmer today.
Saturday, Sept. 12. 1874.
On board of the S.S. ‘Boyne’ bound for Buenos Ayres, off coast of Portugal. I
got up this morning at about 7 o’clock, and staid on deck until breakfast
time. The sea today was very smooth, and nearly all the people were on deck.
This forenoon I sat up on deck and read, and watched the people. Expect to be
in Lisbon tomorrow morning. After supper I staid on deck and then went to bed
at 8 o’clock. It was a delightful day; not too hot or too cold.
Sunday, Sept. 13, 1874.
On board of the S.S. ‘Boyne’ bound for Buenos Ayres, off the coast of
Portugal. When I got up this morning at 6 o’clock, we were in sight of land.
This morning we entered the harbor of Lisbon. and
We passed a few light houses, ruins of old houses, and at about eight o’clock
we entered the harbor of Lisbon, and at one 9
o’clock we were anchored to a buoy about a miles
from the city of Lisbon. The steamer was at once surrounded by
large boats for passengers, and coal, and
freight boats. Father, uncle, Mahrer, Willie and Frank went on shore. Lisbon
was once destroyed by an earthquake, and a part of the city lay under water. I
did nothing much this forenoon, but watching them load and unload. At about
two o’clock father and the rest came back, they say that Lisbon is built all
of stone, and the streets are paved beautifully, and that it was very hot.
Mother bought a basket full of very good white grapes, and father a basket
chair for $2.50. A great many passengers went off here, but still more came.
At five o’clock we started again, and were soon out of sight of land. It was a
delightful day. Today we had our room changed to, under the stairs.
Monday, Sept 14 - 1874.
On board of the S.S. Boyne bound for Buenos Ayres, off
coast northern coast of Africa. I got up this morning at 7 o’clock, and
eat a bunch of grapes before breakfast. This forenoon I sat up on deck and
practised braiding with three, four, five, and six strings. This afternoon I
read, etc. At noon today we had run 231 miles in the last 19 hours, and were
in Latitude 35° 28´ N. and in Longitude 11° 48´. W and were 468 miles from
Teneriffe. This is the 5th day from Southampton.
After supper I sat up on deck, and then played checkers with Josephine in the
salon. It was a very pleasant day, and the water was pretty smooth.
Tuesday, Sept, 15, 1874.
On board of the S.S. Boyne bound for Buenos Ayres. I got up this morning at
about seven o’clock, and eat a bunch of grapes. This forenoon I did nothing
particularly, and this afternoon read a Holiday magazine. This evening I sat
around on deck. At noon today we had run 300 miles in the last 24 hours, and
were 169 miles from the peak of Teneriffe. And were in latitude 31° 3´ N. and
in Longitude 14° 33´ W. It was a pleasant day, and the water regular.
Wednesday. Sept. 16, 1874.
On board of the S.S. Boyne, bound for Buenos Ayres, When I got up this morning
at six o’clock we were opposite the peak of Teneriffe, on one of the Canary
isles. We could only see the outlines of the mountain in the distance, and see
patches of snow on the summit towering above the clouds. (it is 9000 ft. high.
This forenoon I did nothing at all but sit around, and this afternoon I did
the same. It was a very lonesome day. After supper I sat around until half
past nine and then went to bed. At noon today we had run 278 miles in the last
24 hours, and were in Latitude 27° 1´ N. and in Longitude 17° 8´ W. It was a
delightful day.
Thursday, Sept. 17. 1874.
On board of the S.S. Boyne bound for Buenos Ayres. I got up this morning at
about 7 o’clock and blacked my shoes. This forenoon I did nothing
particularly, but this afternoon I read a very interesting novel by the name
of “Under
two Flags”, and this evening I did the same in the salon.
Oct. 9. 1874 Friday.
Nothing unusual occured in the last 3 or 4 weeks. At
Sept. 19. we were at St. Vincent, on one of the Cape de Verd isles. Divers or
swimmers came along side in boats, and dived for money throw them by the
passengers and brought them up before reaching bottom. It was curious to see
them sham fighting in the water. We were at Pernambuco Sept. 25, but it was
too rough for us to go to town, but we watched some of the others going and
some getting ducked on the stairs. We were at Bahia Sept 27, and we all went
on shore in a row boat. we were taken up the elevator about 300 feet, and then
walked to the garden or park, nice view of the harbor obtained In coming back
we had a dinner at Hotel de Mülem which cost father $26.00 We were at Rio.
Sept 30, Oct 1. & 2.. Oct 1. we went on shore in a row boat, and rode in a
tram to the Botanic Garden; seen the splendid array of palms, etc. and then
had lunch, and also went to the Public Garden and another park. Within 170
miles of Monte Video we ran into a heavy fog, and took us 50 hours to make
that distance. We were at Monte Video Oct 7th. 3
P.M. to Oct 8th. 7 P.M. Sea
at Oct 7. pretty rough. Arrived at Buenos Ayres Oct, 9. 1874. 5 A.M.
stopped 11 miles from city. Went into a little
steamer part of the way ($1.50), and in a row boat to the bridge. Horses and
wagons unload boats 200 or 300 yds from shore in the water. Our trunks etc
examined in the Custom house. Stop at Hotel del Norte. Went up town after
supper.
Oct. 10. 1874. Saturday.
Rain all day, and sea very rough.
Oct 11. 1874. Sunday.
the same.
Oct. 12. 1874. Monday.
There was a false arlarm of fire in the hotel
last night. Frank came thumping at my door at 2 A.M. and said ‘fire’!
Lightening outside, I thought it was the flames, put on my pants, & could not
open door, hammered against it, and put on my shoes & coat, & then opened
door, and found the fire put out by Josephine & mother, in the top story.
Oct. 13 - Tuesday -
Walked around the city of Buenos Ayres with Charley.
Oct. 14 - Wednesday -
Got a “papalita”
today at the U.S. consulate. Wrote a letter to Mr. Howard.
Oct. 15. Thursday.
Went to the public market before breakfast (10 A.M.) with uncle. Also walked
around city with Charley, and alone.
Oct. 16. 1874. Friday.
Buenos Ayres. Went to a large hardware store with father, etc. before
breakfast 10 A.M. Took a long walk to Barracas with Mr. Mahrer and Charley,
(very tired.) after breakfast. Father also bot me a knife this morning 3
blader.
Oct 22 - 1874. Thursday.
I have been walking around the city in the last few days. On sunday we all
went to the national museum; it is not much, it contains birds, and skeletons
of extinct animals. Today father, uncle, Mr. & Mrs. Mahrer went up to Rosario
in the cars and steamer. the former comes back again in a few days, while the
rest stay. I bought a pair of green gogles today for $7m/c
or 28¢ leaving me $3m/c.
or 12¢. I also had my room changed today – to up
on the roof, and sleep with Herman.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
At St. Vincent - Sept 19. 1874.
At Pernambuco " 25 1874.
At Bahia
" 27 1874
At Rio de Janeiro Sept 30 - Oct. 1. & 2nd.
At Monte Video, Oct. 7 - 3 P.M. to Oct. 8. 7 P.M.
Arrived at Buenos Ayres - Oct. 9, 1874. Friday. A.M.
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Oct. 23 - 1874. Friday -
Mother gave me $5m/c
today making me $8m/c
or 32¢. Willie and I took a long walk way out to
11 de Septimbre. I studied Spanish also.
Buenos Ayres. Hotel del Norte.
Oct. 26 - 1874. Monday.
It thundered and lightened fearfully last night and also rained yesterday and
last night. I bought a 3 fishhooks this morning
for $1m/c
or .04 leaving me $7m/c.
I went up town this afternoon, and was caught in a heavy rain, but found
shelter. I traded my new knife away to Charley this evening for a little 3
bladed knife, and a large 1 bladed one. After supper I – Bill & Charley went
walking.
Oct - 28 - 1874. Wednesday.
Father came home from Rosario this morning. He reports the prospects of
getting a good farm very good, and will take us all up Sumday. I took a long
walk with Frank and Bill in the town last. Today we went with father & bought
a map of Santa Fe and a tool chest.
Buenos Ayres Hotel del Norte.
Oct - 31 - 1874. Saturday.
I bought 264 feet of white fish line today for $7m/c
or 28.¢ and then wound it around a board.
Nov. 1. 1874 - Sunday.
Today we started for Rosario. After coffee I helped Willie to carry the trunks
&c down stairs and then to load them into a cart to be taken to the depot, We
then followed the cart to the depot, and I helped to unload it into the
baggage wagon car. I then staid there until
9:50 A.M. when the train started, to take care of the loose baggage. At 9:50
A.M. the train started for Tigre. We got there at about 12 o’clock. We had to
walk a little way to the steamer, and we had to carry our hand baggage. We had
to show our pass on going on board. The steamer started at about 1 P.M. when
we had breakfast. Most of the afternoon the steamer went through sloughs, and
had to be poled sometimes. At about 4 o’clock we entered the Parana. It is not
as wide as I thought, but I could not see the other side as it is filled with
islands. At six we had supper. We have very good thing to eat. I and Charley
have to sleep in a room with two other men. It was a warm day.
Port of Rosario, c.1868
(Source: Colección Roberto Ferrari
via Wikipedia)
Nov. 2 - 1874. Monday.
I didn’t sleep very well last night, because it was cold. We stopped at San
Nicholas at about 11 A.M. At 10 A.M. we had breakfast, I had to sit alone near
the end of the boat. and it getting rough I nearly got seasick which many did.
We arrived at Rosario at 2 P.M. and after our baggage passed the custom house,
we had it driven to the Globe Hotel where we are going to stay. Mr. Mahrer is
working in a machine shop owned by an American. The rooms in the hotel are
good but the eating is bad.
Nov. 9, 1874 Monday.
Today we moved into the new house hired by father No. 150 Calle Rioja. I and
Willie had to sleep in the house two nights already. We have folding beds,
(catres) and cooking things, etc,
Nov. 15, 1874. Sunday.
This morning father and Frank started for Cordova in the cars, to take a look
at the country. At about 11 A.M. I and Willie, uncle, Charley, and Mahrer
walked out into the country up the river for about a league. We seen the
soldiers camp (3000 men), a big tarantula near
a
piscatchie hole, owls, some drunken soldiers, and a lizard about 3 ft.
long.
Nov - 16, 1874. Monday.
After coffee this morning I, Charlie Uncle, Johnnie & Herman went fishing
among the wharfs; we seen a little boy fall into the water & nearly drown, and
some oven fall down a wharf between a chain and their necks nearly broken, but
all right, and 1 fish caught. We fish a good deal now, without success. Mother
getting cross.
Nov. 18. 1874. Wednesday.
Father & Frank came back from Cordoba at 9 P.M. this evening.
Nov. 25. 1874. Wednesday.
Father & Willie started for Parana in the steamer this afternoon. I & Frank &
Billie go swimming a good deal now in the river, below the city. Weather –
hot. They are building a dining room on to the kitchen.
Sunday - Dec. 6. 1874
Father and Willie and Mr. Mahrer went came home
from Parana this morning. They had seen Churchmans, and say the country is
very nice in Entre Rios. But Father & Mahrer were troubled a good deal by the
Beeche Colarodas; little insects that crawl under your skin and die.
Tuesday, Dec. 8, 1874
Mother & Father went to Buenos Ayres in the steamer today. Present from Father
75¢ Bol.
Robert and Anne Marie Southam were murdered at Ea. Los Laureles (El Trebol, SFé), 1872.
Saturday, Dec. 12. 1874
I, Uncle, Mahrer, Johnnie & Herman went outside of the city this morning to
see a murderer of an Englishman and daughter get shot: the military
and l formed 3 sides of a large square while a
brick wall the other. The murderer was made to sit down near the wall, and was
shot 13 times by some soldiers, and was killed. Last Tuesday was a feast day,
and the military exercised in the plaza. This afternoon we all were astonished
by Mahrer saying he was going in the brig Blitz to Rio Janeiro, and then to
the United States. The Blitz is going tomorrow morning early, so he has to be
on board tonight. After supper we went with him to the wharf to see him & wife
off. We had to wait until 8:30 P.M. and then he was in a boat to the ship.
Good Bye Mr. Mahrer and Aunt. The weather is cool now, and very dusty.
Dec. 14. 1874. Monday.
Father and mother came back from Buenos Ayres after dinner and I rode on the
cart with the trunk to the house. They bring a good many kitchen utensils etc.
Dec. 15, 1874. Tuesday.
I and Frank and Willie went hunting after the big lizzard up the river but
couldn’t see him, but we seen a large tarantula which we drowned. Frank and
Willie had their rifles along, and shot at a mark on the beach – It was very
hot We seen a great many soldiers marching this afternoon – 3 or 4000
Dec. 16. 1874. Wednesday
After coffee I and Charley went a little ways up the river with our little
poles and fished for minnies, and caught seven — After breakfast 10 A.M. after
wiping the dishes, I and Charley and Johnnie & Herman went up the same place
and fished again and together we caught 22 minnies. I went my feet in fishing
so I went in swimming, & cleaned the fish. It was a very hot day
Dec. 17. 1874. Thursday.
Today was a feast day to celebrate the advent peace again. At about 10 A.M. we
all went to the plaza to see the soldiers exercise. I and Frank walked around
a little while, and then I went underneath the porch of the church and seen
the soldiers exercise, shoot together and also heard the cannons in the square
shoot so loud that windows were broken. I and Charley afterwards walked around
—
Dec. 25 - Christmas.
Staid home today as it was windy Go swimming & fishing nearly every day.
Father bought 4 leagues of land of Carlos Vernet. Feb. 19. 1875. 5 leagues above the rail road. north west of Canada de Gomez.
Brought 500 head of Manzilla 5 leagues north $39½ Before carnival 1876. 2 days marcacion. I peolared.
© Peter Benitz (Benitz Family)