1873 The year 1873 was not a prosperous one. The winter was severe, the cold weather being constant. During the winter an epidemic called epizooty made horses unserviceable for some time. The season was warm and very dry, making the lightest corn crop that had been known for years. In September, a financial panic prostrated business almost entirely causing great suffering among the working classes. In magnitude, it has never had a parallel in the history of our country. It was caused mostly by extensive speculation in railroads. The rebellion had caused an inflation of the currency, which in turn had brought about habits of extravagance and a mania for speculation. The storm that had been gathering for years finally burst and swept away the fortunes of many in a day. Others with a better financial footing were enabled to make a show of stemming the current, only to become bankrupt in a short time. Only the few that were free from debt remained unharmed. As a family, we felt the hard times keenly. Toward the close of summer, Edward and I were attacked by fever and ague and were unfit for labor for some time; and it was with difficulty that I undertook my duties in the schoolroom. The experience of that year will never be forgotten, and, though very inconvenient at that time, taught a valuable lesson for future benefit. +++++++++ Lori