A Gathering of Days: A New England Girl's Journal, 1830-32

These journal entries cover June 13 to July 17, 1831. Catherine selects a design for the new quilt called Mariner’s Compass because she has the fabric for the background already and because she likes the story behind the pattern: It was made by sailors’ wives to preserve their loved ones and bring them safely home. The work is tedious, and Ann reminds her that if she hadn’t given the old quilt away, she wouldn’t have to do it. Ann is picky about how Matty and Catherine do their chores, but she also takes Catherine’s side against Daniel, and she gives Catherine a beautiful set of cuffs and a collar.

On July 4, the family spends the day in town, watching the militia parade, hearing a fife and drum band perform, and listening to firecrackers. A judge who has come to speak praises the contribution of two elderly soldiers dressed in the Continental Army’s uniform; they turn out to be Hessians who fought for the British. At the midday meal, Father reports hearing about burns and a maiming through misfired firecracker explosions.

Daniel decides that Matty and Catherine should call Ann “Mammann,” combining “Mamma” and Ann. Ann thinks that they are saying the French word for one’s mother, maman, and is pleased.