DIY History | Transcribe | Civil War Diaries and Letters | George C. Burmeister diary, 1861

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1861-04-16 -- 1861-04-18

Tues. 16.   The sun is arrayed in his most glorious dress,and all nature smiles this morning. Fondly I cherish the thoughts of nature in her loveliness. I was elected Orderly of the W.L.G. We had a very good drill.

Wed.17.   The news came today that Fort Sumpter is taken by the secessionists, which created considerable excitement,and some became very patriotic, almost ready to enlist in the army. It is certainly a disheartening affair for the north to be compelled to give up the Fort, yet, it was ably defended and not surrendered, until it was nearly demolished.

Thurs. 18.   I received a very stunning letter from Mr. Jon. Ady stating that I could have but a very small part of my money. I am almost inclined to give up teaching as a profession since teachers are so ill paid, and then are obliged to wait so long a time until they receive their wages. I have the blues to a considerable extent and all my bright expectations are almost spoiled, yet we must all pass throught the school of affliction and may I bear it with fortitude. I do not see how I can sustain myself here without I borrow money, which I expect will be a pretty difficult task at this time. The Illinois banks are nearly all broke.

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Tues. 16. The sun is arrayed in his most glorious dress,and all nature smiles this morning. Fondly I cherish the thoughts of nature in her loveliness. I was elected Orderly of the W.L.G. We had a very good drill. Wed.17. The news came today that Fort Sumpter is taken by the secessionists, which created considerable excitement,and some became very patriotic, almost ready to enlist in the army. It is certainly a disheartening affair for the north to be compelled to give up the Fort, yet, it was ably defended and not surrendered, until it was nearly demolished. Thurs. 18. I received a very stunning letter from Mr. Jon. Ady stating that I could have but a very small part of my money. I am almost inclined to give up teaching as a profession since teachers are so ill paid, and then are obliged to wait so long a time until they receive their wages. I have the blues to a considerable extent and all my bright expectations are almost spoiled, yet we must all pass throught the school of affliction and may I bear it with fortitude. I do not see how I can sustain myself here without I borrow money, which I expect will be a pretty difficult task at this time. The Illinois banks are nearly all broke.