Today I'm adding December, 1944.

Dec 1st-Temp 20-28 some snow flurries, cloudy.
   2350 gal of water went to farmers today.  At Millard's we found sewer but way off from where it was supposed to be. Cut off pipe and capped it to upper floor of Mrs. Hoolihan's Bldg #4 W Dayton St.  Fixtures were already freezing.

Dec 2nd-Temp 13-28 coldest day so far, mostly cloudy.  2650 gal of water to 12 different farmers today.  Got sewer ditch ready at Millard's to run sewer Monday if weather permits.  
   Mother and Charles were at Kellis' sale W Dayton St and a utility cupboard brought $19.00 about twice the price of a new one.
   It's almost six o'clock so I better get my red lanterns out, good night.

Dec 3rd-Temp 8-33 coldest yet but wind is in south & forecast is for rain soon.  1100 gal of water went to farmers today.
   Advent season is now here and Christmas preparation is on, may it be a blessed Christmas.  I must now put my red lanterns out so good night.

Dec 4th-Temp 10-18 nice day, cloudy, 1400 gal to farmers, one new one.  Changed sewer at Millard's try and finish tomorrow.

Dec 5-Temp 26-50 Pt cloudy.  2560 gal went to farmers.

Dec 6-Temp 32-35 Cool & cloudy but good weather to work.  1250 gal to farmers today.  Sat water meter at Millard's today, it threatens rain.
   Was at Kiwanis last night. Capt Paul ? spoke on China where he will go soon for the government leaving Friday.

Dec 7-Three years since Pearl Harbor.
   Temp 31-35 Rain most of day.  Only 500 gal out.  Settled dirt in Mrs. Alpha Pleasant's ditch and refilled it.
   Bickel hauled 15 T(ons)  of flint stoker coal to church.
   Stanley Bortman applied for sewer connection.

Dec 8-Temp 30-32 then down to 28 windy & cooler rain has stopped.  Only 700 gal to farmers today.  Wilbur 31 today.
   Water to farmers was only 700 today (Grandpa's notation) absent minded.  Got through pumping rather early today.

Dec 9-Temp 25-28 colder & windy, 1400 gal went to farmers today..  Nothing more except I have a yearning for Donald.  I hope he comes home soon.

Dec 10-Temp 25-34 some snow (disagreeable weather) only 600 gal to farmers today.  Must close  so that I may be at church on time & ring bell etc.

Dec 11-Temp 26-28 snow at least 3" on level.  1550 gal of water to farmers and roads are getting slick to haul.
   Heard Dr. McFarlane, Principle of Dunbar School (colored) of Dayton when he spoke before the Junior Mission Band and friends on their 25th anniversary last night.  The J.M.B. donate their funds for the cause of the Colored Missionaries.  A very peaceful speaker.
   Well I had six more teeth pulled today, two broke off and he (Dr, Good) didn't finish them at this time.

Dec 12-Temp 20-32 Snow and drifted some making traveling hazardous.  (650 gal to farmers)
   This tooth pulling business isn't so hot leaving me with a headache continually.  Had a new water customer today Carl Habekost.

Dec 13-Temp 15-25 A little snow fell-no school on account of conditions of roads.  Still sore with my teeth.  Dr. Shafer just arrived ti time to get water today his tank making 1800 gal.

Dec 14-Temp 17-28 Not much change in weather except clearing skies.  2550 gal of water went to farmers today.

Dec 15-Temp 18-36 Moderated, some snow melted, still part cloudy.  1700 gal went to farmers today.  Charles got Millard's sanitary sewer inside today, also I got Wm. Koehler to haul dirt for Mrs. Alpha Pleasant, as I didn't want to lose any more red lanterns (they or someone stole it last night).
   Still have a sore jaw.

Dec 16-Temp 22-28 Not much change, mostly cloudy.  2400 gal went to farmers today.
   Went to basket ball game at Lewisburg last night.  They won by 3 points, my jaw and face are feeling a lot better.  That's all.

Dec 17-Temp 16-39 Some warmer part cloudy colder predicted.  Only 500 went to farmers today.
   Heard Dr. Maier today first for sometime.  Had our Children's Christmas program at church this morning.  Luther's Cradle  Hymn sung by the junior department, brought out what the program  meant to the children, from the way they sang it.

Dec 18-Temp 22-27 Part cloudy to be colder tonight.  1800 gal went out to farmers today.  Not much to say this time.

Dec 19-Temp 12-22 continued cold by *** what was expected.   1150 gal of water went to farmers today, one new customer Paul Wachtel.
   Hope to attend Kiwanis meeting so I better close.

Dec 20-Temp 16-42 Warmer lot of snow melted.  1750 gal of water went to farmers today.
   Rev. Bradow and family are visiting near Glenford.  I am looking after the furnace.  Well no more teeth in my mouth (roots of two teeth are still in (must leave them until mouth is healed ) then Dr. Good expects to take them from the side of gum.

Dec21-Temp 22-27 More snow fell this morning, colder weather predicted.  1000 gal to farmers today.
   German armies seem to be having things their way.
   Rev, Bradow and family arrived home shortly after noon today.  My mouth is improving.

Dec 22- Temp 5 to 27 Coldest yet winter began yesterday.  Farmers hauled 2800 gal today.
   Went to work at church tonight so goodnight.

Dec 23-Temp 13-27 Foggy this AM sun shone a little.  3200 to farmers.  Too many sick at home to write much in order to get to the church, good night.

Dec 24-Temp 22-34 Thawing.  Christmas Eve. (1750 gal to farmers today)  church tonight so I must leave, good night.

Dec 25-Christmas Day.  "For us is born this day in the city of David a Savior which is Christ The Lord."
   Temp 31-31 lowering by evening, 550 gal of water went to farmers today.
   Sewer at Carrie Roselius stopped up last night.  Chas was sick today and myself also yet Miss Roselius insisted it be cleaned out, having called the president of the board so we cleaned or rather opened it.  She complained it unhealthy for them yet it made no difference about us.
   Had Dr. Hearst to the house last night for Mother.  He treated her for her stomach.  I myself think it is something else.
   The Cantata was good what I saw of it.  Mother called me home so I missed quit a bit of it.
   Now let us rejoice for Christ the Savior was born.  Good night.

Dec 26-Temp ?-19- I was too sick to make my rounds this morning.  To my mind my trouble may be sinus trouble.  Only 400 gal went to farmers today.
   Mother doesn't seem to be much better, Wilbur still remains in bed.  Chas also and now his daughter Joan is also down.  Cora is also sick.  Some family.
   And yet yesterday we celebrated Christ's birthday and He died that we might lie.  Let us remember.

Dec 27-Tempo 20-27 Rain, snow,sleet, some day and traveling is dangerous.
   At home Mother, Wilbur, Mary, Harry and Geo., Jr. are all under the weather.  Versae & I will keep the home fires burning.  We still give thee praise Oh God for Thy kindness and grant Oh Father that our faith waver not.

Dec 28-Temp 6-24 cold and regular winter.  (650 gal) Sickness at home is the same and Cora needs help.  Help Thou Thy servants Oh God in this hour of need.

Dec 29-Temp 16-30 Rain falling expect snow by morning (1950 gal to farmers today)
   George, Harry and Mary Jr. are better but Mother and Wilbur are not so good.  Mother's skin is the color of saffron or yellowish.
   It makes me think of the hymn "Have faith in God" and surely He will not forsake us.

Dec 30-Temp 28-32 Foggy,  roads are slippery. (1900 to farmers)
   Mother and Wilbur are slowly improving but it seems very slow.  The others gain strength as they should.  Yet we must give Thanks unto God for His unspeakable gift.

Dec 31st-Temp 30-34 And it is now raining.  I hope the ice will go before other ice forms.
   Only 650 gallon of water went to farmers today.  
   At home Wilbur or Mother have not made much change.  We pray the will soon gain strength and as with the Psalmist lit us "Bless the Lord my soul, and forget not all His benefits"-Psalm 119, 2.
   This evening we hope to attend services for the last time this year.  I hope a goodly number attend.
   Turned water off at T. J. Stewart's who with his wife will live with their daughter Faith Scott at or near Cleveland.

   Today I'm continuing Grandpa's journal with November, 1944.

Nov 1st-Temp 49-73 South wind warmer.  Farmer hauled about 900 gal today.  Enjoyed Kiwanis last evening.  Raked and burned leaves at station AM & PM.  Tied 1 1/2" meter which was in line at Canning Factory and it seems to have gotten too hot.  Good night.

Nov 2nd-Temp 51-75 warm south wind.  No rain.  Farmers hauled 1600 gal today.
   I raked and burned more leaves today, not much time in the afternoon.
   A man was killed just east of town last night by a car driven by Miss Grace Meyer.  H seemed either drunk or doped.   Good night.

Nov 3rd-Temp 42-75 another fine day but no rain.  Farmers hauled 1450 gal today.
   Finished raking leaves today until more fall, put them over in field north of station.
   Finally got the radio repaired but haven't had time to try it.

Nov 4th-Temp 44-54 a little rain last night & early morning.  Did a lot of good for wheat.  Farmers hauled 1500 gal.  Attended Junior Mission Bank meeting in which Donald, a former Mission Lander, was honored.

Nov 5th Sunday-Temperature was 37-40 and down to 35 at 5:30 PM.  Farmers hauled 900 gal today. Weather was cloudy and windy, cool.  
   Heard "The Lutheran Hour" today with some interruption on account of farmers hauling water.  We ate a combined birthday dinner at Esther's, Elmer being 62 today and Mother, my Mary E., was 52 yesterday.
   Well I finished the book "The Strange Woman" and you sure have various emotions during the reading thereof and I finished with this thought "Be you steadfast".

Nov 6th-Temp 16-44.  Farmers only hauled 400 gal today.  Weather cold slight wind, partly cloudy.
   Mrs. Sidney Shaffer reported a leak in street in front of their house.  Must be in service line.  Tomorrow is election day, will report on that on Wednesday.

Nov 7-Temp 28-?  Election Day was in election board of North Precinct.  T. J. Stewart pumped for me.

Nov 8-Temp 45-58 Was tired from my work yesterday.  It tried to rain today but couldn't make it.  Farmers hauled 2200 gal today.
   President Roosevelt was re-elected.  Preble Co reported republican. State mixed.

Nov 9-Temp 48-56  And we had a very nice rain although we need very much more.  Only 600 gal of water went out today.
   Measured flow of water from wells today, south well raised water 79" off of ground with a stronger flow than last Thursday.  
   According to last reports Preble Co went republican except Dwight Emrich as clerk of courts.  I was glad for Dwight.

Nov 10-Temp 40-45 Cloudy today with a drizzle now & then.  1200 gal went to farmers today, the little rain & cool weather keeps stock from drinking so much.
   Another leak showed up today on Smith St in front of Grace Meyer double formerly G. W. Ehlers barn.
   A Mr. Wampler 3 W 2nd St was struck by auto driven by Carl Fritz near Hotel Alexandria & died a few hours later, this happened  yesterday morning.  Mother doesn't feel so hot today.

Nov 11-Temp 40-43 Armistice Day but not much different than any other day this year, too much war now.  The farmers hauled 1250 gal today, one new  one. Had Charles to lay a new blow off valve for east boiler (#2) betting others leak.

Nov 12 Sunday-Temp 39-52 Partly cloudy.  Communion at church morning & evening.

Nov 13-Temp 27-52 Fine day if part cloudy.  raked some leaves at station, hope this to be the last time this fall, still have some to rake up.  Farmers hauled 1250 gal today.

Nov 14-Temp 41-49 (eve 52)-Nice rain this AM cloudy & fog PM.  More rain forecast for tomorrow.    Farmers hauled 1000 gal today.
   Assisted Charles in installing a deep well electric pump at Charles Eby's home.

Nov 16-Temp 41-44 And is now falling, expect it to be cold in the morning.  We had more rain last night and some snow fell.  Glad I burned the leaves last night.  Can't find any one to dig, am getting through rather early today.  Well good night.

Nov 17-Temp 31-38 Rather cold cloudy but nice day to work.  Farmers hauled 1300 gal today, one new one Marcus Peters.  This being the first day of hunting law, boys of upper classes and some of the teachers went hunting.  So I used Harry to dig out the service ls house lot #217 which had a hole almost 3/16" in dia., quite a lot of water was lost.  We repaired  with an entire new pipe (3/4" galvanized).
   At home Charles Crauder finished papering Wilbur's room, it looks rather nice.

Nov 18-Temp 31-35 Cool today.  Farmers hauled 1500 gal today.  Yesterday hunting law came in but there doesn't seem to be an abundance of game.  Emerson Voge killed a fox, these seem to be getting quite numerous for safety of our poultry.

Nov 19-Temp 33-37 And rain all afternoon, not heavy, by steady drizzle.  Farmers hauled 600 gal.
   Mother & Harry went with Charles and his family to see Grandma & Pa McGregor.
   Had a visitor in person of Orville Jeffries and from his conversation I must class him as a man with a vision.  I hope something comes from his ideas.

Nov 20-Temp 32-38 Now getting colder, had a good snow storm last night, some snow still on building & ground this morning.  Also had rain last night & this AM.    Only 500 gal of water went out today.
   Stanley Bortner inquired for himself & Tom Crank about sanitary sewers for their properties.

Nov 21-Temp 34-40 Cool and cloudy, good rain last night.  No water hauled today, first for quite a while, cleaned sewer for Ewalts helping Charles out, filled with roots.  That is all for now.

Nov 22-Temp 24-36 Quite cool threatening snow or cold rain.  Farmers hauled 1650 gal today.
   Attended Kiwanis last night.  Pvt Charles Wills and our new druggist Mr Ullman and a Mr. Rookstool were guests.
   Then attended (with others of the family) the class play given by the Senior Class of our High School, it sure was fine, much credit given to Rev. Eugene Beekley, their coach.
   Have several sewer connections on the go now.

Nov 23-THANKSGIVING DAY!!! Temp 32-34 cloudy, little rain and spit snow once in a while.  Farmers took but 700 gal today.
   All children were home today except Versae and the boys in service.  May they have thankful hearts as they partake of the Lord's blessings.
   Attended the services at the Reformed Church when Rev E J Beekley preached the sermon last night, and this morning at our church when Rev Bradow illustrated his talk b y drawing the head of Christ with crayon.  No adjective can describe what effect this had on many of us who heard and saw him.
   So let us give thanks and pray for the peace which passeth all understanding.

Nov 24-Temp 24-40 cool, partly cloudy.
   Harry and I repaired leak on Smith St in front of Grace Meyer property, put a skimmer clamp on it.  1750 gal of water went to farmers.  Wm. Koeller started to dig for Millands water tap.

Nov 25-Temp 27-38 raw wind-partly cloudy.  1850 gal hauled of water to farmers.  Leonard Crowell hauled two loads of sand for filter beds at disposal plant.
   Too busy to write any more.

Nov 26-Temp 36-47 Cloudy and rather  damp day, no rain but it looks as if it would rain.  Farmers hauled 1050 gal today.
   Not much water used in town today, so am getting through rather early and am glad for I have a headache, so good night.

Nov 27-Temp 40-38 950 gal of water went out.  Turned in $38.69 to clerk f or water sold to farmers.

Nov 28-Temp 31-39 1180 gal of water to farmers. Board met last night.
   Today or this forenoon Mother & I assisted Esther & Elmer to move to their own house in New Lexington and I had a headache all day.  Too many irons in the fire.  That's enough for today.

Nov 29-Temp 34-38  700 gal went to farmers today.  Assisted Charles in making sewer tap for Altha Pleasant.  Did a little too much.  Ladies night at Kiwanis tonight.

Nov 30-Temp 20-23 & windy making the weather disagreeable.  1050 gal of water went to farmer today.  At Millards we are digging to make a new tap.
   Last night my wife and I attended ladies night at Kiwanis, good attendance.  Boss Johnson was the speaker Lt Geo *** and wife were present.

   A while back I had posted a picture of my Great-Grandparents, Eli and Anna McGregor.  At the time I had only individual pictures of them.  I had never seen a photo of the two of them together.  I asked that if anyone had any pictures of them, could they please send them to me.  A couple months ago I received this picture of them sent to me by my cousin Stanley's (Butch) son Troy.  I can't thank him enough for sending this to me.  If anyone has any other pictures of them, or any pictures of John and Sarah Winkelman, that they could send to me, I'd greatly appreciate it and gladly put them in a future blog.

  So, any way, here is the only picture I have of Eli and Anna McGregor together.

   Today I'm getting back to Grandpa's journal.  The last entry I made was from August 11, 1943.  For some unknown reason, he took a break and didn't add anything for over a year.  His journal picks up in October, 1944, so this is where I start today.

Sat Oct 7th-Yes, John was here in '43 also last two weeks of Aug of 1944.  Sorry to have missed all the time.  Owing to severe dry weather sprinkling was forbidden for a few wees as our wells were getting low.  Quite a lot of water was used up to 132,000 gal daily.  Now I hope to continue this diary in the future.
   We are having fine weather,  have had no killing frost and light frost on only two mornings, up to this writing.  Victory gardens are still producing vegetables.
   Family is represented in armed forces by one son and three sons-in-low.  At present S/Sgt Donald is in Corsica.  Cpl Eugene Crauder is in France, PFC Frank V(irgil) Keltner, Jr. is in Camp Hood, Texas.  Pvt Leonard Eugene Brock is in Camp Meade,Md. preparatory for over seas work.  More tomorrow

Sun Oct 8th-Roof and woodwork and contents except boiler were destroyed last night in a building owned by Hammond Canning Co., about $18,000 loss.  No cause found.  Rather cool today 46 degrees, somewhat windy.  Attended S.S. and Church this AM, Cora and family and Sarah and her 2 sons eat dinner with us today.
   Will finish pumping a little early today.  Farmers are still hauling water on account of dry wells at home.  Arthur Gilbert got 100 gal today.

Oct 10th-Well! Well! I forgot yesterday, had too much to do.  Helped Charles take down Miss Clara Smith's old boiler after supper. The air feels as if there is frost nearby.  Thermometer did not rise much today 43 to 51.  Flushed fire hydrants on S.  Main, Dewey, W. Oak, and corner South and Summit St.  Mains need flushing very much.  That's enough today.

Wed Oct 11th-Picked pears this AM at Edith Sebrings. twp baskets for each of us.
   Boiler inspector A. R. Will inspected boiler #1 (east) found it OK and commended me for condition of boiler and setting.
   Flushed fire hydrants of W. Dayton St. Entered into the realms of the Kiwanis Club last night and was welcomed as their newest member.
   Word was received by Catherine (Woodard) Bishop that her husband Ralph had been killed inaction Sept 15, '44.

Oct 12th-Assisted Charles last night in getting some plumbing done.  Worked till about 10 PM.  Finished fire  hydrants on W. 2nd St all OK.  Received letter from Donald in Corsica in which he says he is physical OK but is about to be transferred to another branch which doesn't sound so good.

Oct 13th-Assisted Charles again last night.  Started pumps this AM and flushed fire hydrants on E and W 2nd st, all E & W 3rd St and extreme north end of Main St all OK except on at 2nd & Sight Feed alley.
   Went to Lewisburg after dinner and had  Charles T Schreel cut & thread a 2 1/2" pipe for Miss Smiths heating plant.
   Miss Maude Clemmer had a leak in faucet of lavatory, she was quite flushed about it.  Yet this is Friday 13th Huh!
   Weather is dry and quite cool yet no killing frost.  Oh that's enough for today,  OK?

Oct 14th-Again assisted Charles at Miss Smith's last night.  Jim Robins has a leak of 5 gal per min.
   The home of Jesse Hasten (deceased) and his personal property was sold at auction today, house & lot brought $6000 and other property sold high.
   Had a new customer for water today.  Hubert Kreitzer began hauling, water is getting lower all the time.

Oct 15th-Sunday up early to look after the Church.  Fair attendance, sang two old favorite hymns.  Weather cool 34-57-may frost heavy tonight.  Had two farmer water customers today.  I may go to the show tonight.  Through pumping rather early, less water used.

Oct 16th-Yes it froze last night first killing frost or freeze of season.  Thermometer reading at station was 23F.
   Leak at Joe Robbins was caused by pipe breaking off in tee.
   Sold 2350 gal of water to farmers today, wells are very low in county.
   Yes I saw the show (On Way To Tokio) at Look Theatre last night, it was good.  That's all for today.

Oct 17th-Temperature 27-71 but a fine day.  Village is putting tar or oil on some alleys and streets, some sure need it.
   Quite a bit of water has gone out today to farmers, about 1450 gal.  Another new customer (Forest Bell)  I guess I better stop for today.

Oct 18th-Temperature 28-76 another fine day. And farmers continuing to haul water.  But no rain to bring up the wheat which has been sown for over 2 weeks.
   Well diary I feel punk arms, legs, back and everything just aches, has for several days and I hope it lets up soon.
   It's about time to quit and supper is about ready so, so long  until tomorrow.

Oct 19th-Temperature 41-63 another fine day but still dry weather, forecast wanted rain, but nothing came.  A prayer might help.  Farmers hauled 2400 gal today.
  That's all for today except I put some wood in basement ready for winter.

Oct 20th-Temp 40-55-Cooler & cloudy all day, no rain.  Farmers hauled 1000 gal today.
   Youngsters are already out at night, can't wait until Oct 31st.
   Well it is 5:50 and almost through pumping with corn bread waiting for supper M-M-M

Sat Oct 21st-Temp 37-58 cool & part cloudy.  Farmers hauled 2750 gal today.
   Forgot to mention John Tebelman (68) died sometime Wed night found dead in bed by his brother Herman.
   Opened sewer at Dick Spaulding, Scott Williams property, the old (Opera House) this AM, also ata Jim  Hamilton's res.  Sewer was stopped  up at Russell Hall's (old John E Davis home).  I refused to do.  The reason is better kept quiet.  Well it is Saturday night.  So long.

Oct 22nd-Temperature 31-56-cool but fine day.  Farmers hauled 880 gal today.  Up at 5:30 this morning and just finished work at 7 PM.  Took care of church this morning, attended Sunday School & Church Services this AM.  Ate a bite and pumped till 1:45 PM then attended the funeral of John Tebelman who was 68 yrs 8 mo & 11 days old when he died.  Tat leaves only Herman and a niece Lucile  Becker LaBach.
   Then I pumped some more till tank was full.
   Rev Bradow's text was taken from Luke 12.

Oct 23rd-Temp 20-64, pretty cool.  Clothes froze hanging on the line.  Farmers hauled about 1700 gal.  Raked and burned some leaves this PM.  I guess that's all today.

Oct 24th-Temp 44-72 fine day.  Henry Busch 80 died last night.  Farmers hauled 1450 gal  today.

Oct 25th-Temp 34-74 fine day but dry.  Arthur Gilbert hauled two hundred gal today, Kinsey 250 gal.  Attended Kiwanis last evening, honor court of Boy Scouts was held in connection.  Sons George E., Jr became a 2nd class scout and Harry E a first class and was appointed assistant Scout Master.
   Received a letter from Donald that he was demoted from S/Sgt to private.  I fear Donald has done something amiss.  I must write to him about it.
   Well I had five teeth pulled by Dr. Good today, it makes me feel kinda funny.  So long.

Oct 26th-Temp 34-58 fine day, cool and no rain.  Attended Henry Busch funeral this PM.  Had pumped a little this morning, pumped out sewer line at Chris Wigger (Wm Lanthrop) place AM, helped it some.  Tom Myers has spladid force at meter but not much in house.  Arthur Gilbert was the only farmer to haul water today, 200 gal, paid for 100 didn't have enough change.
   Well I feel a little punk today, ache in my arms and legs and now have a little headache.  I've been wondering what those aches mean.
   Rev Bradow's text was taken from *** chapter of Revelations, the *** verse.  Well so long until the next time.

Oct 27th-Temp 30-55? fine cool day.  Pumpage 64,800 gal.  350 gal for farmers,  reset Derby, Keyes & Haber meters.  Stills some aches in my body, also my teeth.  Good night.

October 28th-Temperature 24-68-cool windy.  Farmers broke record for water hauling, over 3700 gal, several new customers.
   Had my hair cut today but that doesn't ease the pain of my body.
   Dug up the few gladioli bulbs we had in the garden.  I still have the plan to mop so I better stop.  Good night.

Oct 29th-Temp 28-54 cool but fine day.  Farmers hauled about 975 gal, one new customer.
   Received a letter from Donald last night in which he had enclosed a citation form the French Government on the Croix de Guerre avec Palme which he and his comrades had received for their part in this great war.  Mary was out for just a little while today.  This is sufficient for today.

Oct 30th-Temp 20-61 Water to farmers 2150 gal.

Oct 31st-Reformation Day, Charles birthday-33.  Temp 28-72  Water to farmers 1150 gal.  Board of Public Affairs met last night, routine business was all the was done.  Filled east boiler, ready for tomorrow's change.  That will do for today, hope to dine with the Kiwanis tonight.

   This finishes the October, 1944 entry.  Tomorrow I will start on November.  I promise to be more regular with blogging from now on.

   Before I get back to Grandpa's journal, I thought I'd add this program I found recently.  This is the program for the West Alexandria, Ohio Centennial.  Looking through it, I found a lot of names I recognized, plus some facts about the village I didn't know.  

   I hope some of you can look at this and find names of people you remember.  Others may learn some things about West Alex.  I loved the daily schedules of events, especially the prizes awarded for the competitions.  What would we do today for $.50 first prize or $.25 for second place.  But I imagine in 1936 $.50 could buy a meal.  So, I hope you all look at this as fondly as I have.

   In my next entry, I'm going to start on the journal again.  There was a gap in his writing but I'll pick up just where I left off at the last entry.  It will start with October, 1944.  But first, enjoy celebrating West Alex's 100th anniversary.

Today I'm adding entries for August, 1943.  This was a short month in the journal-not quite two weeks.

Sun Aug 1st-62-90; 56,000 gal:  Having no services I attended services at First Church of the Brethren on 3rd St.  Quite a few of our Civilian Denfense Council attend there.  Bob Vogue and his group  had their supper at the Water Works park.

Mon Aug 2nd-62-86; 80,800 gal:  Some difference from yesterday's pumping.  Ball game tonight.  S.F. (7) vs. Brumbaugh (10).  Game warden brought 60-4 wk old pheasants for 4H bird club.  Mrs. Bradow leader and she isn't home.  Have them at pumping station for the present.  To be distributed among the club members.

Tues Aug 3rd-72-80+; 48,800 gal:  Cloudy today rain this P.M.   So far not much to say, so long.

Wed Aug 4th-77-89; 56,800 gal:  Some rain in the north last night causing Big Twin overflow, going about 10" deep over the highway, caused water to back into disposal plant.  Washed out driveway (a little) to disposal plant.

Thurs Aug 5th-74-84; 63,200 gal:  Set new fire hydrant on West Dayton ST this AM.  Charles, Harry and Geo. Jr. helped with the work.  Some youngsters picnicked at W. W. gave me a very nice treat.

Fri  Aug 6th-64-84; 62,400 gal:  Late, want to get to ball game.  Good night.

Sat Aug 7th-56-87; 65,600 gal:  Rather cool this morning but it sure warmed up.  West Alex beat New Lebanon and Brookville took Lewisburg last night, good games.  Well I have to finish up about 8 P.M.

Sun Aug 8th-58-88; 59,200 gal:  Not so bad, about like yesterday, the weather, I mean.  Harold Monfort,  wife and baby spent a little time with us today.

Mon Aug 9th-62-?;96,000 gal:  96,000 gal included today's pumping and what I pumped last night from 9 PM to 11 PM.  They sure use the water.  I tried to organize (2) small boys softball teams, 5th 6th 7th & 8th grades had a short game this evening, some good players in the bunch.

Tues Aug 10th-72-91; 64,000 gal:  Warm today.  Charles and I worked at Mrs. J. B. Lucas' home on closet (?), a tedious job.  I went to see the Kiwanis Club play the Rotary Club of Eaton at Vaughn Field.

Wed Aug 11th-66-90; 88,000 gal:  Considerable water used late evening.  John arrived today to be on hand for tomorrow when he will take charge for two weeks.  I hope to work on the house.

This is the last entry for August, 1943, and there are no more entries until October of 1944.  That's where I'll start next time.

Now for the 3rd day in a row I'm posting more of Grandpa's journal entries. This is for July, 1943.

Thurs July 1-Temp 52-77; 65,600 gal: Still cool. Cora 28 today. Complaints coming in on excess water bills. Took fire hydrant at Dick Campbell's to Pence Shop to get welded. Swarm of bees lit on fence post on north side of lot.

Fri July 2-Temp 59-86 warm; 104,000 gal: Cool this morning but warmed up considerable. Lost the bees. Pumped A.M. and evening. Record pumping for this year for ordinary use.

Sat July 3-Temp 58-91; 91,200 gal: Cool this morning but Oh! boy now it's hot. Miss Minnie Kramer buried this P.M. from Salem. Pumped at noon on that account. Made some tip protectors which will make an even 200 to collect for. Am still pumping at 10:30 P.M. but about through. Sarah's baby, a boy Donald Dale, was born this afternoon at Good Samaritan Hospital.

Sun July 4-Temp 73-91; 46,400 gal: Independence Day. Not so much water today but I suppose I'll have to pump in the morning. Charles (W) and Sterling Long were here this P.M.

Mon July 5-Temp 68-87; 100,000: Saw my new grandson last night and his mother Sarah. Also took in a show. Took tip protectors to S. F. and got a goodly sized check of $58.80 which goes into war bonds. Walter Schultz and wife, Earl Rinck and wife, Chas Benson, wife and son, and Chas Kaiser and family tried to have a picnic here this eve but the rain spoiled it but not much rain fell. Got two letters from Donald this morning, he is OK. One contained a POWO of $40.00 which will be put in savings for him.

Tues July 6-Temp 72-90; 56,800 gal: Hot and threatening rain. Bought 1-25 and 1-50 bond for us (from Sight Feed) and 1-50 for Donald with his allotment he sends home for that.

Wed July 7-Temp 64-83; 63,200 gal: Cloudy and showers all around us but none here. Put fire hydrant together at Dick Campbell's, they just welded it today. They are sure busy at Pence's shop. Picked a few raspberries this A.M. Pumped twice today although they didn't use much.

Thurs July 8-Temp 66-80; 55,200 gal: Still cloudy and no showers. Henry Hoffman assisted in filling around fire hydrant at Second & Main St. Irvin Kreitzer brought in some screens from a grain separator to be soldered. It is some job. Sarah and her baby came home from the hospital today. Mrs Harry Diefenbach 62 our near neighbor died early this morning.

Fri July 9-Temp 62-78; 75,200 gal: Worked on those screens. Had sick headache. Harry helped me in evening.

Sat July 10-Temp 66-85; 71,200 gal: Still with headache did nothing this A.M. Worked on those screens again, put in over 13 hrs now and not done. Mrs Harry Diefenbach was buried. Ha a lot of thunder and a little rain this P.M.

Sun July 11-Temp 62-85; 50,400 gal: Cloudy in morning but turned out fine through the day. We had Sunday School but not Church Service at Salem today. I finished the screens for Irvin Kreitzer, putting in a total of 17 hrs 15 min. 6# carbide 1 1/2 lb solder besides 3 acid brushes and acid. 2 pieces of 24 ga metal about 14" long. Several visitors here today/

Mon July 12-Temp 65-90; 78,400 gal: Threatened but no rain. Had our first softball game this evening. Pumped after game until 11:30. Picked green beans, dug a few potatoes (they are small) and had some red beets out of our garden today also some more peas. it is lightning in east now.

Tues July 13-Temp 70-94; 65,600 gal: Still threatens rain but none comes. Had our first softball game of the season last night S.F defeated T.V.B. 19-2. I tinkered today.

Wed July 14-Temp 70-92; 86,400 gal: Midnight and I just finished pumping. Another softball game. Sight Feed beat Brumbaugh 5 to 4. 72 paid admission. Good night.

Thurs July 15-Temp 70?-91; 80,000 gal: Slept late this morning will probably do so tomorrow morning, pumping late again past 11:30 now. Had a daytime alert (or air raid trial) this evening. First alarm at about 8:47 second 8 minutes later. All clear in about one half hour. Eaton was dilatory in reporting time. Did a little work for Ernest Deem.

Fri July 16-Temp 70?93; 88,000 gal: Slept late again and I pumped again to after midnight. Really this is July 17th. C. D Crouse's men had quite a time getting through the wall at Brumbaugh's store. I did a little work for Ernest Deem. Received and deposited in Bank 3 checks from Metropolitan Life Ins. co. for paid up endowment policies-$552.34.

Sat July 17-Temp 72-93; 67,200 gal: Well! Well! a shower of rain at last and a good one too. Glad we have Brumbaugh Store hooked on to sewer & ditch filled. And it saved me from pumping so late.

Sun July 18-Temp 70-86; 40,000 gal: It rained last evening and it made a big difference in the pumpage. Rev. Bradow gave a lecture on his trip to the south in reference to his call to be superintendent of colored missions. He hopes to stay at Salem and so do we.

Mon July 19-Temp 68-80; 56,800 gal: Not quite so hot today. Sprinkled some. Moved station lot, planted a few cucumber seeds on sweet potato ridge.

Tues July 20-Temp 62-91; 69,600 gal: Cool this morning but it warmed up. Had tires on truck inspected. Applied for 3 new ones and one recap. Hope to get them as mine are shot. Then made application for Mary's car for gas. Also for truck, got 70 gal for next 3 mos.

Wed July 21-Temp ?-90; 62,400 gal: Warm, mowed stand pipe lot A.M. Dug 1 bu of potatoes, just potatoes.

Thurs July 22-Temp 60-80+?; 104,000 gal: Nice rain last night. Flushed fire hydrants E & W Dayton St, N & S Main St, South Smith & Corner Summit & South. Planted more peas, red beets & turnips. Sight Feed sewer was stopped up in man hole under building also at Mrs Carrie Unger estate.

Fri July 23-Temp 66-86; 61,600 gal: Slept late this morning, inspected Dr. Good's plumbing this A.M. Also dumped Imhoff tank into east filter bed this A.M. Plowed tomato patch, & cleaned west boiler this P.M. Am somewhat tired and nervous.

Sat July 24-Temp 76-86; 78,400 gal: Slept late again but feel better. Pumped until almost 10 P.M. today. A stove explosion was a cause for a fire department run to Dave Rike's, the old Sam Black farm south of town this P.M. Not much damage done. Nora Glander 72 dies 6:45 P.M.

Sun July 25-Temp 64-93; 57,600 gal: Warm again. Salem voted to retain Pastor Bradow. Puvogel reunion held at W. W. Park today, again next year. Mrs Albert Runyon dies about 10 A.M.

Mon July 26-Temp ?; 100,000 gal: Mrs Joe Richardson 74 dies. No temperature but it was hot. Received my 3 new tires and one tube today to the tune of $52.71. Also bought a pint of fire water. Pumped twice on this day. During our softball game or just prior to it a fire alarm to the boys to Mrs Wm. Myers at Dadsville where fire destroyed barn corn crib and most of their contents, house was saved, several firemen received burns.

Tues July 27-Temp 70-93; 76,000 gal: Miss Nora Glander was buried this P.M. Remained in bed a good while this A.M. Did some pumping near noon also after 8 o'clock to eleven. Had a daylight air raid tryout this evening.

Wed July 28-Temp ?-94; 78,400 gal: Mrs Albert Runyon was buried this P.M. A little rain and a plenty all around us. Called off ball game, will play tomorrow night. Did a little work for Harper who bought of Frank Gazelle the last house on S Main St. Also some work for Lewis Probst at Josiah Miller property, Paul Paxson & family will occupy the place.

Thurs July 29-Temp 64-79; 48,000 gal: Leonard killed 11 years ago today. Sleep on Oh! Brother mine. The Joys of heaven are surely thine. A fine rain last night and this morning. I hope it lessens the pumping a little. Billy Baker, Chas Eby and I did a little work on ball diamonds. Lee Cowan came when we were about through.

Fri July 30-Temp 62-78; 81,600 gal: Not much change in pumping today. Buck Cruz started to dig on fine (?) at Florence Naudasher property on W Dayton St. Hard job in tree roots. We are having some ball games now. Well it is 12:25 July 31st now so good night.

Sat July 31-Temp ?-89; 57,600 gal: Pumping a little better today, mowed station lot, harvested a few vegetables from garden. At about 7:15 P.M. the firemen with the chemical truck went to the aid of New Lebanon fire department. Building was lost.

I'm going to stop here until after the family reunion this Sunday. I promise to keep at this at a better pace from now on. The journal ends at March 26, 1945, so I have plenty to keep me busy. If any of the family reads this before Sunday, hope to see you there.