1884 The winters of -82-83 and -83, -84 were very severe, being a departure from the usual routine of a cold and mild winter in succession. In fact the two seasons were very much alike. being cool and wet during the spring and summers and very cold during the following winters. The Ohio River was the highest on Feb 14 that was ever known, beating the record of the proceeding spring by over 3 feet. During the month of March we moved to town and I was in the employ of Mr. Fisher during part of the spring. I put in 7 acres of potatoes on our place and spent nearly half of my time during the spring and summer in cultivating them and in repairing and making fences on the farm. About 2 acres of my crop was drowned out, but the remainder did very well and yielded nearly 1200 bushels of potatoes. Potatoes were very plentiful, but my venture was a success notwithstanding; and I realized nearly $100 00/100 after paying expenses which included my own labor. The season was very favorable, there being plenty of rain for all crops. There was no continued hot weather. The corn crop in the western states was immense. I secured an eight month's term of school in the Wilson district 3 1/2 miles north and east of my present home. I have boarded at home so far, walking back and forth every day. The district allowed me funds to employ an assistant after my seventh week and I have retained her ever since. There are two rooms on the same floor, both furnished with patent(?) desks and I find myself much pleased with the arrangement. I have concluded that it is best for me to follow teaching for a few years at least, as the new school law is very beneficial to experienced teachers; making it possible to secure longer terms than formerly. The past year was one of great financial depression and many factories and mills were closed. The cause of this would puzzle any political economist. Crops were enormous and there was an overproduction of manufacturers. Wheat was lower than any other period within the last hundred years. There was plenty of everything but there seemed to be a scarcity of money, though there was more money in the country than was ever known before. The trouble was in a great measure due to the lack of confidence on the part of capitalists. The political campaign was very exciting and many speeches were made, both for and against the tariff. The race was a close one and ended in the defeat of the party that had been in power for nearly a quarter of a century. Time will tell whether a tariff is beneficial or not. and it is not to be wondered at that capitalists are cautious about investing their money from the turn affairs have taken. Many railroad projects were abandoned for the time. The Narrow Gauge, built from Albany to St. Joe was widened this year. The campaign was memorable for immense(?) torchlight processions of men in uniform(?). Clubs were raised all over the country by both of the leading parties. The Republican Club enrolled over 300 at Stanberry and I acted as secretary for the same. Though beaten, we are not despondent. +++++++++ Note: I have his Republican Club notes, which include a list of the members.