Cover:
" A Journal of the most remarkable Transactions and Occurences at York Factory from 29th August 1786 to 7th Sept. 1787"

" A Diary of Occurences at York Factory in Hudsons Bay North America by Joseph Colen, Resident
Commencing Aug. 29 1786 Ending Sept. 6 1787"

August 29 1786
" Tuesday AM fine - PM thick & unpleasant. Wind ? from SW to NW. About Noon Mr Humphrey Marten Chief delivered the charge of the Factory &c to Mr Wm Tomison (who had before given a receipt for the same) immediately went on board the Severn Sloop accompanied by Captain Christopher, Mefs Ballenden & Moore - Saluted them with 3 cheers & 9 Guns at parting - The Bill of Lading having been left behind by Captn Christopher - Sent off Henry Garrock & 5 men in long boat (with it) to the Sloop with directions to bring home the Buoys - The men variously employed stowing away Cargo - Two North River Natives came to the house with a few Skins which were Traded & they took up Debt"

Aug. 30
" Wednesday Wind NNE & variable to NW b W Rain & hail at 11 AM the rest of the day fine & pleasant
At noon Mr Willm Tomison delivered the charge of the Factory to me & took his leave - Accompanied by Magnus Tate, Hugh Folster and an Indian Man - Saluted with 3 cheers & 5 Guns - Soon after the Ship King George was under Sail & by 3 PM out of sight pray God send both a prosperous? voyage in safety to their desired Havens - Severn & Churchill Sloop remains at Anchors - Sent off James Smith & 5 Men to the Hay Island - Garrock & the Men who were sent to the Ship yesterday returned with one Buoy & a boat Loaded with upwards of 2 Chaldrons of Coals & 2 Kegs of Flour - When the tide permitted the Carpenters & most of the Men taking down Launch & stowing it away. at other times cleaning plantation - unpacking Stores &c. Three Homegaurd Indians came in paid small Debts in Deer Skins and the Nothern Natives of Yesterdasy went away"

Aug. 31
" Thursday Wind SSW fine & pleasant AM - PM it became squally with Rain & towards Evening it veered N ly with heavy Rain & Cold
At 4 AM the Severn Sloop got under way as did the Churchill at Noon - & were soon out of sight - the remaining part of Launch & Sloops? taken up & stowed away - Afterwards all hands variously employed - Stowing away & unpacking Stores - Several homegaurd Natives came with a few Deer Skins which they traded
Henry Garrock under Mr Robinsons care"

Sept. 1 1786
" Friday a hard frost early this Morning & Ice thick Wind NE - Weather PM blowing strong and Cloudy
Carpenters, Sawyers & Afsistants Building a Log Tent over sawpit which is to answer in lieu of Canvas covering - The New Shallop Sails (that were sent out to this place) were made use of for this purpose & are spoiled - Mr Robinson & 4 men in a boat went to 10 Shilling Creek to fetch home Netts & to see after the Hay Makers - Bricklayer & four Labourers took down the S? Chimney of Dwelling House it being found dangerous - Smith Armourer & with others variously engaged unpacking Stores, Drying Skins & Stowing them away - traded besides Deer Skins 200 lbs of Green Venison - Wm Dean appearing a decent young Man & who writes a good Hand appointed Steward one being much wanted at this place"

Sept. 2
" Saturday Wind NNW Weather in the Morning Cold & frosty tho fine & pleasant about Noon - PM moderate & Cloudy - The Hay Makers returned for Provisions - Bricklayer & 4 Afsistants clearing away Ground for the intended Flanker - The rest of the men engaged till Noon as Yesterday - Had two Netts set - Robt Sinclair under Mr Robinsons care
Greatest part of the Home Gaurd Natives who took up Debt this day left the factory & late in the Evening two Musqua Ratt River Indians came in with a few Skins - sent by some of my HomeGaurds. They came from the Crofs Lake near where one Primo has a house Erected which was the last place they Traded at - they left a small party at a Distance to know the reaction they met with at YF - having been at no English Settlement since the small pox raged with such violence"

Sept. 3
" Sunday Wind NE fine & pleasant afternoon a little variable - Traded with the Natives of Yesterday who set off soon after - The Hay Makers went to their Tent - Divine Service for the Day - Distributed the religous Tracts sent out by the Honble Board amongst the Men"

Sept. 4
" Monday Wind SW great part of the Day fair - the rest cloudy with Rain
Bricklayer & Afsistants trimming Bricks - Carpenter & Afsistant preparing Timber - other Tradesmen at their respective Occupations - And the rest of the men variously employed - The Indians having made great complaint of the badnefs of the Brazil Tobacco for some time past; had part of it examined, some appears quite Rotten & unfit for trade - this Occaisioned by laying too long in the Wet & Damp Log Tent - The remaining obliged to rub over with Oil & Malafs Mixed to make it any ways pafsable - one Canoe of Bungee Indians came in. Traded about 50 MB, 106 lbs Beaver flesh & 4 Dried Geese. Rec'd 9 lbs of fish from the Netts"

Sept. 5
" Tuesday Blowing strong with heavy Rain all last night A Gale at NNE Moderate Weather a light shower of rain about noon
The Indians who came in Yesterday set off - Bricklayer & 2 Men drawing Lime Kiln preparing mortar & began the foundation of Chimney Sd End of Dwelling house - others as Yesterday - One man under Mr Robinsons Care
Large flights of Geese were seen near the plantation - but not one Indian Hunter at the Factory - They all requested leave to set off to hunt for furs early, this I had no objection to - as our Stocks of Venison is great & we Received a few Geese from Severn - For I was convinced? had I prefsed their stay - they would made use of this as a plea? & not procured Furrs suff. to pay their Debts - many Similar incidents I have been Witnefs to
Only five Widows & 16 Helplefs Children of Natives now on the Plantation
Rec'd 69 lbs Fish from Nets"

Sept. 6
" Wednesday Wind AM Eas'ly fine & pleasant. At Noon became variable till Evening when it settled S blowing strong with rain
All hands as before - I have the satisfaction of seeing all my Hon'ble Employers Goods & Stores from England in safety & free from being injured by bad Weather - Received 54 lbs of Fish from Netts"

Sept. 7
" Thursday Wind AM S b E a strong Gale & Cold - PM more moderate & variable to SW
The Tradesmen as Yesterday. sent provisions to the Hay Makers - Labourers variously engaged. Had two nets Mended & Set - The Armourer taken suddenly Ill ( under Mr Robinsons care."

Sept. 8
" Friday Early a Moderate breeze NE b E afterward variable Sly & PM A strong Gale NW - The Morning fine & pleasant & Warm. abundance of Muskatoes & Sand flies - Afternoon heavy rain & Severe Cold -
The Tradesmen engaged as days past - Sent Henry Garrock & 2 Men early to take up Buoys who returned by 8 oClock AM
On comparing Account of Goods Landed (from the Ship) with Invoice Many Numbers were found to be wanting - Engaged all spare hands in overhauling the Warehouses to correct if any ? mistake. I am sorry to find that a great number of Goods specified were never deliver'd at YF - As these Errors may arise thro' the Mixtures of Cargoes consigned to 3 Settlements & two Sloops taken in their Own & ours at the same time - I intend to particularize the Contents of the Different Numbers &c in my Letters to Churchill & Severn in Order if they receive any of them to place it to their respective Accounts - The hurry of the Captain being so great time woud not permit us to examine before his departure -
The Armourer confined to his bed"

Sept. 9
" Saturday A moderate Breeze variable AM from N to NW Cloudy heavy Weather PM fine clear & pleasant
Tradesmen as before. Henry Garrock & Labourers engaged in examining? old Stores Stowing them away - drying Leather, Canoes? &c & other Necefsary Duties - Three Hay Makers came home for Provisions Had part of the lead taken off the new Building & relaid to prevent the Wet flowing in"

Sept. 10
" A Strong Gale NNW Cold & Cloudy AM - PM rain & more Moderate
Very high Tide which overflowed all, the Islands & flats (in sight) on the River - Gave Directions to the Hay Makers (who set of today) to get the Hay (already made) together in order to be brought to the Factory"

Sept. 11
" Monday wind variable from NW b W to N part Clear part Cloudy
Carpenters & Afsistants preparing for Building - Sawyers & Afsistants making Rollers? for Timber - whereby the Sawyers only will be enabled to remove heavy pieces without the Afsistance of others from this Factory as was usual - Smith making Iron work for Do. - Armourer cleaning Hunting Guns - Bricklayer plaistering Dining Room - three Men cleaning away dirt & Stones from the Hulk of an Old Shallop lying? a Wreck above the Factory in order to remove her when the Tide permits - Six men at the Hay Island One Taylor at work for Men- The Labouring hands digging a Cellar to stow away Brandy &c for the Winter - very high Tide the Water rose much higher than I ever saw yet"

Sept. 12
" Tuesday Wind variable from N to NW afterw'd to S at times blowing Strong at others calm fine & pleasant
Tradesmen & Afsistants as before except Bews who is variously engaged - Sent 6 men for Hay - in the Afternoon all hands engaged in Unloading & Stacking the same
Wm Guthrie under Mr Robinsons care
I cannot help remarking that the expence of keeping Cattle at this place Appears to me to be far greater than any profit or benefit than can arise from them. Last year I could not help Noticing to the Governor that most of the principle Hands are Engaged the best part of the Summer making Hay when their Services in procuring proper Necefsaries for the Factory were very Needful. more especially as here is no place to Shelter them but the Mens Cook Room - for want of Proper convenience for them one was froze to death last Winter - This Season we labour under the same predicament as last having Six of our best & Active Labourers away which will ever be the Case so long as Cattle are kept & they feed? so far distant from the Farm as ours is - As Men has full employment to attend on them
Two Indians came in with a few Skins & Rhuhiagon Traded took Debt & set off immediately"

Sept. 13
" Wednesday Part Calm & part gentle Breezes at NNE the first part of the Day afterwards thick & Hazy
All hands in the Morning as before except Bricklayer & two men getting Stones in order to lay the Foundation of Chimney in The New Flanker - Six Men went for Hay all hands stacking the same in the Afternoon - [On? the?] Whole the Weather was clear saw a large Culum of Smoak on a SSW direction from the Factory I conclude to be Woods on fire. it being at a great distance will not effect us but by driving the Game from those parts
Many Swans seen flying near the Factory"

Sept. 14
" Thursday Wind variable from NE to S b E Weather fine & pleas't
All hands (except Carpenter & Sawyers) engaged till 10 oClock AM Stowing away Brandy &c in a Temporary Cellar dug in the Garden
Afterwards went for Hay as before. Unpacked all the Cheese & repacked them again filling the ? places & between them with Saw dust to prevent them from the frost. an experiment I was permitted to try & succeeded? my Wish for after standing the Whole Winter was equal in Goodnefs as when first Rec'd from England being firm & moist without mouldering to peices as is common in this Country when once froze
Two Indians came in & traded a few Skins - also a Widow Native with two Children came for food & to remain on the Plantation being deserted left friendlefs & almost starving"

Sept. 15
" Friday Wind AM E b S a moderate Breeze - noon a Strong Gale & in the Evening almost calm fine? Weather. all hands variously engaged. Blowing too strong when the Tide permitted to go for Hay. Had Scaffolding fixed for driving of Piles - Preparing them & Bank in order to begin this businefs tomorrow"

Sept. 16
"Saturday a hard Gale of Wind NW the Whole of last night with much Rain this Morning untill 9 oClock it afterwards cleared up when the wind vired? almost round the Compafs at times blowing fresh & at othertimes Calm
the men not able to work without Doors. This Morning served out to each a Toggie Mittens & Cap for Winter use. afterw'ds set 5 Men to work the Pile driving Machine - was obliged to take them off when Tide served to go for hay. the rest of the men as before - Hay Makers came home for Provisions"

Sept. 17
" Sunday Wind variable almost round the Compafs weather in the Morning Cloudy - Noon Rain PM fine & pleasant. Divine Service - all the Hay Makers went to their Tent except James Smith - who I have kept at home in order to go out with me tomorrow
In the Afternoon two Punku Indians came in one Canoe - Traded a few Skins & took up Debt"

Sept. 18
" Monday An easy breeze AM Sly at noon it vired? Wly afternoon NW & in the Evening Nly blowing a Strong Gale the first & middle part of the day warm & fine Muskatoes & Sand flies Numerous middle part moderate & pleasant - the latter part very raw & Severe Cold - Wm Bews & Afsistant preparing Falling Hatchetts - The rest of the Tradesmen at their respective Occupations - Labourers clear'g out Drain from Flanker - one under the Care of Mr Robinson - Gave the Necefsary Orders respecting the employment of the men (The Punku Ind'ns of Yesterday off) Took the Pateroon Carpenter & 3 Men with me in a boat to survey the timbers at the Woods - having made an estimate of the quantity wanted to give proper Directions for the Cutting of the Same. Besides those we went to see very fortunately discover'd a large Number of fine Trees & much nearer to the Factory than the Others (tho' far from the Water) which will enable us to prosecute the Buildings with spirit - It was with the utmost difficulty the Boat was got thro' the Sd Channel of the River in the height of Tide owing to the numerous Shoals lately formed - thro' this Channel the firewood was Rafted last Autumn
Came within sight of the Factory a hard gale of wind suddenly sprung up & running at the same time a high head Sea, with dark weath'r? it was with difficulty we gained an Island about two Miles from the House were we were obliged to remain the Night very uncomfortably - this I tho't more prudent than to risque the Lives of so many in a rotten & Leaky boat as the Water was gaining in her fast"

Sept. 19
" Tuesday The Whole Night it blew a hurricane variable from N to NE with much Rain & Hail it abated as the Morning appear'd - Soon After it blew a hard Gale from the same Quarter with Rain Hail & Snow - very Cloudy & thick
As soon as Day appeared the Men with me got into the Boat & tho not more than two Miles from the Factory & not above half from the Shore we were obliged to go on an Oblique Direction being drove before the Wind - That it was with difficulty we landed on the Factory Island upwards of 4 Miles above the House. Secured & left the Boat - walked along Shore & arrived at? 8? oClock
Secured the Long Boat & laid her in safety at the Mouth of the Factory Creek - it being too bad weather for working without Doors the Men employed making themselves Mittens Caps & Togies? & Getting other things in readinefs for the Woods - where I intend they set off next Week if pofsible
I think it proper to mention that I took James Smith & John Caithnefs with me Yesterday to shew them the Woods - as in case of Necefsity they are the most fit for being made patroon both being careful Steady Men
Two Indians came in with a fine Buck Deer late in the Evening which they traded Wt 144 lbs"

Sept. 20
" Wednesday a very sharp frost all night This Morning Ice thick & all the Land much? covered with Snow - Freezing in the Shade the whole day - Middle part of the Day Snow & hail with Dark flying Clouds - latter part more clear. late in the Evening much Snow. Wind a little variable NNW - The Ind'ns of Yesterday having left two deer they killed at the back of this Island Sent two English & 2 Natives for them fresh Provisions being scarce - sent for the Boat left up the river Yesterday - Tradesmen & others variously engaged - Dav'd? Copeland under Mr Robinsons Care
Very low water in the River which left a bar(lately formed) yesterday?, about a Mile from the House upw'ds that a person could with ease walk acrofs from this to an Island in the River called the Mile Sand
Rec'd 110 lbs of Venison"

Sept. 21
" Thursday A Great fall of Snow last night with a variable wind from N to E -The weather as variable the whole day - at times Snow - Rain - Hail - Cloudy - fine each alternately. Men variously engaged when the weather permitted without doors driving piles - preparing timber &c &c at other times in the House. Two Men under the care of Mr Robinson
The Natives of Tuesday set off one of whom took up Debt. snow Birds begin to be numerous a sure sign of Winters Approach"

Sept. 22
" Friday A Severe frost last Night Wind variable from N to S - cloudy Moderate Weather
The Men as before except two who are brewing & two weighing of Provisions for Wooders
Two families of Indians came to the House being unable to persue their Journey - Two of the Men Lame & the Wives of the Others are not in a situation to reach their Winters Quarters. They came for Mr Robinsons Afsistance
These Natives intend to Hunt for small furrs only"

Sept. 23
" Saturday A moderate Breeze Sly part Clear part cloudy & warm
Men as before except a few who are preparing Tools &c. Had the Long Boat unrigged & Laid up for the Winter - I have now nearly compliated driving piles before the most dangerous part of the Bank & hope to secure them properly with Land-ties by the middle of next week
Sent off the Indians of yesterday to Hunt for Geese - Rec'd 8 from them"

Sept. 24
" Sunday SSE Wind - early part of the Morning afterw'd much Rain which continued the Whole Day
Two Men preparing to set off for the Woods tomorrow receiving Snow Shoes &c
Rec'd 20 Geese from Indian Hunters"

Sept. 25
" Monday Much rain & boisterous Weather all last night the day more moderate - yet blowing strong NW with Rain Hail & Snow & Cloudy
Sent off 10 Men to the Woods in two Boats with Provisions for the Men till Xmas - ordered five Men to remain to cut? & Sprig? Fire Wood felled last Season. Tradesmen & others variously engaged - 5 Men returned with the Boats late in the Evening
The Dangerous situation of Bank of the River ENE of the Factory alarmed me much this day - the Captains hurry being so great to depart from this place last Season woud not allow ? to gather stones for Ballast as usual, he was permitted to take a large Quantity from the Bank near & Below the House - which so weakened it many Yards is blown it & washed away by this Days Tide which was very high - Lost one set of Bars? that were swept away with the bank - I must strefs? that we had not Hands suff't to send to collect Stones after the Ships arrival for the principle part of the Men were kept on board untill within two Days of her departure. They were by desire of Capt. Christopher Tho' only 8 Men were then on Shore"

Sept. 26
" Tuesday wind NE & variable Ely very unpleasant weather Rain Hail & Snow all the Morning PM more Moderate - I attempted this Morning Tide to raise the Shallop in order to bring her to the Factory - I had suff't purchase to raise her to the Surface of the Water - The Timbers being rotten it fell to pieces -
All Labouring hands variously employed - Driving Piles Collecting Stones &c began laying a platform acrofs the Yard - The Tradesmen & sick as before -
Rec'd 25 Geese"

Sept. 27
" Wednesday All last night a severe frost. Wind variable from S b E to ENE Early part of the day cloudy - The rest fine tho' cold
All hands as before - The Sick on Duty
Had two old Boats (which have lain uselefs as I am informed, Years before the Old Fort was destroyed) fixed before the Bank - to break the Force of the Waters which will be a great protection? to it untill opportunity offers to secure them in a better manner"

Sept. 28
" Thursday A Stiff Breeze Ely the Whole day Cold & frosty Weather Hail & Sleet PM -
The Men as before - One Range of Piles (near fifty yards) is compliated fixed with strong Land Ties & faced with Slabs after the mode practiced in England on the banks of the River Thames -
Platform in Yard finished dirt & Rubbish cleaned out Rec'd 60 Geese & 8 Ducks"

Sept. 29
" Friday Wind variable from SE to N weather as variable Snow - Hail Sleet & Rain Alternately - AM - PM more Moderate, The Evening flying Clouds with thick Fog - Most of the Men engaged this day collecting Timber pieces together near the Sawpit - Those squared removed into yard for Building -
The Carpenters finished a Table & writing Desk - when the weather would not permit the Tradesmen to follow their respective Occupoations without Doors. they have been engaged in making necefsary conveniences in the House - & it gives me much pleasure to say that we are far more decent & Comfortable in our Appartments than for time past
Paid the Ind'ns for Hunting"

Sept. 30
" Saturday Light airs variable N besides? part clear & part cloudy -
All hands as before till Noon - had the plantation Cleaned"

Oct. 1 1786
" Sunday Last night moderately warm - Gentle breezes N with light flights of Snow - at times Rain & Cloudy - Men getting their things in readinefs to set off to the Woods tomorrow"

Oct. 2
" Monday A Sharp frost last night - this Morning cold & cloudy - Wind NW Light Snow PM -
This Morning early all hands engaged removing Timber squared from the Sawpit into Yard - & when Tide served sent off the patroon & six Men to join the other five sent to the Woods last Monday. Four Men were sent to bring back the Boats - Carpenters laying a Wood Drain from the Flanker - & began the Foundation thereof. the rest variously engaged Brewing &c. The Men returned from the Woods with Boats about 10 PM - all the Indians with their Families (who came in the 22nd Ult. ) set off"

Oct. 3
" Tuesday A remarkable clear horizon & cloudy Zenith - no sun appeared for Days as past - Breezes ENE
All hands as before. Bricklayer Bricknoggin pafsage - Cooper securing Beer for Winter's use - Had all the Nets taken up very few fish to be got - As Large quantities of Spike Nails lay scatter'd along shore & in the Water employed the Indian Children to collect them together"

Oct. 4
" Wednesday severe frost last Night Breezes ENE fine till 9 AM Afterward flight of Snow & Cloudy with a stiff Gale -
All Hands engaged as Yesterday except Cooper who is making Sleds - Partridges seen near the Factory for the first time this Season - 1 Shot -"

Oct. 5
" Thursday Light Airs variable from ESE to S b W moderate Weather tho' Cloudy
All hands as before except Bricklayer & afsistant who are building foundation of Chimney in flanker - Had all the new Coils of rope put into empty Brandy Casks to preserve from Weather & Dirt"

Oct. 6
" Friday A strong gale all last night S which continued till Noon this Day with Cloudy Weather Afterwards a stiff Breeze S b W more clear - All hands engaged as before"

Oct. 7
" Saturday fresh breezes S b E fine cheerful Weather -
Tradesmen as before - except (Bricklayer & Armourer) & 4 Men who are preparing things to set off to Hunting Tents on Monday
This Week the Cellar of flanker is built up to the surface of the Ground which took up 54 pieces of Timber - the open Drain from the same is nearly compleat - These? is made of Piles Drove obliquely forming a House ridge Rivered? - on the bottom a wood drain? - so that the Sun can have full power to reach - & as the ground thaws the Water will have free pafsage
Upwards of 300 lbs Wt of Iron Spike Nails pick'd up from the Shore by the Indian Children
Rec'd 8 partridges
I cannot help mentioning that great numbers of Swine are taken with a giddenefs & lofs of Appetite which obliged me to kill two of them - others I am apprehensive must share the same fate, before they are proper Meat - various are the conjectures but noon here can contribute the cause - & great part of the Men refuse eating their flesh"

Oct. 8
" Sunday Gentle Breezes ESE fine pleas't warm weather - Divine Service - In the Afternoon served out proper necefsaries for Six Men who are preparing to set off to Hunting Tent tomorrow
Rec'd 1 Rabbit & 1 Partridge"

Oct. 9
" Monday fine Breezes Ely early this Morning rain & cloudy - afterwards clear & fine - the Weather for three Days past hath been very warm & equal to any this Season of the Year in England - Sent John Mellam & two Men to French Creek John Sturgis & two to Ten Shilling Creek - each party to remain there & hunt till Xmas, having taken provisions with them for ? ? - five Men sent to assist in bringing home Boats - All hands at Factory Variously engaged - laying Crofs ties for flankers & making the Foundation secure -
All our Swine are in a state of Madnefs one of them Died last Night. As the first stage of their Disorder resembles domestic & other Animals near where Lead is Smelted - had one of them open'd which convinced me they had eaten White Lead or Drunk the Water from it - I made use of the mode practiced in England for their Cure which is cutting of their Tails to Bleed freely - & giving them Molafses & Sana in their Dirt -"

Oct. 10
" Tuesday Winds very variable from N to S b W - A Continual Rain the Whole day -
No Work performed without doors on Account of the weather - Tradesmen & others variously engaged in the House & Shops"

Oct. 11
" Wednesday fresh Breezes variable from ENE to E by S & E - very thick cloudy weather
All hands making secure foundation for Building - J. Sturgis & one Man came from 10 Shilling Creek Hunt'g Tent with 21 lbs of fish - & for Oars - having a Small Boat with him - The Oars not being deliver'd - that where sent for YF last Shiptime greatly difstrefses us - having but 8 for all our Boats -"

Oct. 12
" Thursday Breezes NE Fine open Weather all hands as Yesterday except Carpenter who is making Oars - Sent off Hunters of Yesterday to their Tent"

Oct. 13
" Friday Moderate breezes variable from N to E fine Weather-
Carpenters began framing base plate for Building then? variously employed laying Stones against the Bank &c
one under Mr Robinsons care"

Oct. 14
" Saturday Wind E b N & variable to N Cloudy weather Cold with Snow AM - Afternoon More clear
All hands till Noon as Yesterday
This Week I have finished the foundation around flanker - made good up to ground floor - framed the Base Plate & fixed it upon logs - so that it can be a great security to Wood Buildings & will last double the term of Years - to the Mode hitherto practiced at this place-
All the Swine are recovered"

Oct. 15
" Sunday Wind NW fine pleasant & frosty Weather - Divine Service - Ice begins to collect at the edge of High Water Mark"

Oct. 16
" Monday Wind NW sharp frosty Weather -
Carpenter began fixing Girders & joice? on ground Floor of Flanker - Two sets Sawyers squaring Timber - Others variously engaged removing Stones &c to the Bank"

Oct. 17
" Tuesday Wind N b E fine & pleas't tho' frosty
All hands as Yesterday except Smith who is making Trapp'g Hatchetts - Ice appeared for the first time this Season in the Offing"

Oct. 18
" Wednesday wind variable from E to S by W fine seasonable Weather -
All Hands as before - at high Water the River covered with Ice which separated as the Tide fell away & drove into the Offing
Rec'd 6 Partridges"

Oct. 19
" Thursday Wind variable almost r'd the Compafs towards Even'g fixed N Cloudy Weather - with snow & Rain
Too Bad weather to work without Doors - all hands employ'd in necefsary Duties in the House - Sturgis & others came from 10 Shilling Creek Hunting tent with 60 lbs Fish 20 partridges & 6 Rabbits & return'd back soon after"

Oct. 20
" Friday Wind all the Morning NW - PM variable almost round the Compafs - in the Evening fixed SE - Cold cloudy Weather with Snow -
All Hands as Yesterday - One under Mr Robinsons care - early this Morning the River was thinly froze over but broke up & went out with the Tide -"

Oct. 21
" Saturday Wind variable from E b N to N Cloudy Moist Weather
All hands engaged removing timber pieces into the Inner Yard for sawing (The Cellar of flanker to answer the purpose of Sawpit) I intend to employ the two carpenters next week to square Logs for Building
This Week all the Girders & Joics? on the Ground floor of flanker laid & finished - Several Necefsary Jobs done for the preservation of Medicines & other Stores in the House also a new? flight of stairs errected from the pafsage into J. Colen Room - & all the Deer Snares taken from the Hedge & laid up
Opened a Cask of pease of the Year 1783 up. the Men refused to Eat being a great part rotten & otherwise Bad - obliged to give this to the Hogs"

Oct. 22
" Sunday A fresh Gale N ly Cloudy Weather with light Snow? - Divine Service - Rec'd 3 Rabbits"

Oct. 23
" Monday fresh breezes Nly - AM Cold - PM more clear sharp frosty Weather. Much Ice in the River - Five fathom hole Land Beacon carried away -
Killed 5 Pigs Wt 403 lbs - Rec'd 6 Rabbits"

Oct. 24
" Tuesday Wind NE sharp frosty weather - The River full of heavy Ice - The Double headed Beacon carried away -
Wm Guthrie & the Cooper squaring Timber - The Cellar of flanker answers the purpose of Sawpit - The rest as before
Rec'd 11 Rabbits & 13 Partridges"

Oct. 25
" Wednesday Moderate Gale Variable NE to S Clear sharp frosty Weather - The Men as before - Rec'd 6 Rabbits & 2 Part"

Oct. 26
" Thursday Wind variable from S to N b W Cloudy weather with Snow -
The Men as before except Robt Sinclair who is preparing enclosing? a place for Cattle & the Cooper making Sleds the two Carpenters at the pit saw
Rec'd 10 Rabbits & 1 Partridge"

Oct. 27
" Friday variable Gales almost round the Compafs -
Morning temporatity? warm PM Cold & frosty -
All Hands as before - Rec'd 15 Rabbits & 20 Partridges"

Oct. 28
" Saturday Strong Gales all last night & this day variable from E by S to N Cloudy Weather with drifting Snow
All Hands till Noon as before - 6 small Pigs killed weighed 170 lbs. The Timber is too full of Ice to prosecute the Building this Season - Carpenter hath been engaged this Week preparing stuff against next spring -
Rec'd 7 Rabbits & 2 Partridges"

Oct. 29
" Sunday Breezes NE Cloudy temporate Weather for the Season - Divine Service - Rec'd 8 Rabbits & 9 Partridges"

Oct. 30
" Monday Stiff breezes variable from E to SE AM Cloudy PM Clear sharp frosty Weather -
Tradesmen & others variously engaged - Making Sleds Sawing &c - Wooders & Hunters at their respective Tents
Rec'd 9 Rabbits & 8 Partridges"

Oct. 31
" Tuesday Wind SE part clear & part cloudy
Rec'd 4 Rabbits & 4 Partridges
All Hands as Yesterday except one who is under Mr Robinsons care"

Nov. 1 1786
" Wednesday Wind SE part clear & part cloudy - Men as before - Rec'd 2 Rabbits & 21 Partridges"

Nov. 2
" Thursday Wind variable from SE to E Cloudy thick Rime - All hands as before except Bews & one Afsistant who are mending a Copper cut up (which was used to make Busque? for Indians) The sheet Copper sent out for the use of this place & on Remains in Last? Ball? and? was taken Away last Shiptime
Rec'd 6 Rabbits & 24 Partridges"

Nov. 3
" Friday A Strong Gale E by N & variable NE all last night Snow which continued at Intervals the whole Day - the Evening small Hail & thick weather -
The Men as on Monday"

Nov. 4
" Saturday Breezes from NE to N b W Cloudy Weather Ther Men as before till Noon - except the Cooper & Cattle keeper who killed a Vicious young Bull. Fine Meat. Henry Garrock? & David Knariston? came from the Woods - who report the Men enjoy Health & are industrious - They crofsed at the 6 Mile Island - The River Ice upwards having been fast 14 days
Rec'd 2 Rabbits & 6 Partridges"

Nov. 5
" Sunday Fresh breezes NW Cloudy weather with Snow
Divine Service for the Day. Rec'd 7 Rabbits"

Nov. 6
" Monday Wind NW b W Sharp fine Weather freezing the Whole Day.
All Hands variously engaged squaring Timber Making Sleds &c -Sent off the Wooders of Saturday - Not hearing from the Hunters at French Creek since they left the Factory sent Cha's Isham (to crofs the River with the Wooders) to see if any accident had befell them - The Anniversary of the Powder plot was observed & the Men regailed themselves
Rec'd 2 Rabbits & 2 Partridges"

Nov. 7
" Tuesday Wind NW b W & variable to W AM fine clear Sharp Weather PM Cloudy with snow - All Hands as Yesterday except one Man who is under Mr Robinsons Care"

Nov. 8
" Wednesday Strong Gale NW b W (last night much snow) the Day fine & clear
All Hands engaged hauling Firewood & Timber from the Plantation into the Yard. In the Evening Cha's Isham returned from the Hunting Tent informed me he left J. Mellam & J. Sturgis about five Miles from the House - up the River - quite fatigued with Drawing their Sleds heavy Loaded- Mr Robinson politely offered to go to their Afsistance took two Men with him & returned to the Factory abt 11 PM but where obliged to leave their sleds behind"

Nov. 9
" Thursday Breezes NW Cloudy Weather with Snow -
All Hands as on Monday except two who are sent with Cha's Isham to afsist home with the Hunters Sleds left last Night -
Rec'd 53 Rabbits - 64 Partridges - 70 lbs Fish & 10 Martins"

Nov. 10
" Friday Wind very variable almost round the Compafs - Cloudy Weather with Snow -
Early this Morning sent off the hunters to their respective Tents - All hands at the Factory as before
Rec'd 2 Partridges"

Nov. 11
" Saturday A Strong Gale NW b N Cloudy with much Drifting Snow & very cold -
The Men engaged till Noon as before"

Nov. 12
" Sunday Wind NW Cloudy Weather - Divine Service"

Nov. 13
" Monday Wind variable NW b W to N AM clear & fine - PM Cloudy with Light Snow -
Three pairs of Sawyers squaring Timber - Cooper making Sleds Smith - Fire Steels & Robt Sinclair Packing Boxes for Inland. Taylor at Work for Trade - Twelve Wooders & Six Hunters at their respective Tents - The rest at the Factory variously engaged grinding Oatmeal &c
Pheasants are in great plenty even more so than formerly to be remembered by any person at this place - many have been killed & are reckoned as Partridges
Rec'd 25 Partridges"

Nov. 14
" Tuesday Wind NE b N - Cloudy Weather
All hands as Yesterday - Rec'd 20 Partridges"

Nov. 15
" Wednesday Wind NW & variable W b S Sharp Weather Men as before - Rec'd 9 Partridges"

Nov. 16
" Thursday Wind variable from SSE to SW & PM ? Clear Sharp Weather
The River Ice set fast - Two Men came from 10 Shilling Creek Hunting Tent - All Hands hauling timber &c into Yard - Rec'd 76 Partridges 1 Rabbit & 2 Martins"

Nov. 17
" Friday Wind NW b N Clear frosty Weather -
All hands engaged greatest part of the Day as on Monday. Had the Rough Ice made level from the Bank to the River for a path - Sent the Hunters of Yesterday to their Tent"

Nov. 18
" Saturday Wind WSW Sharp Clear Weather -
All Hands engaged part of the Day as on Monday - Had a Water & Victualling Hole cut thro'? the Ice on the River - Hoisted the Colours & kept them flying the Whole Day - as a Signal for the Hunters on the Opposite Shore - That the Rivers Ice is set fast & can be crofsed with safety"

Nov. 19
" Sunday Wind NW fine Sharp clear Weather -
Divine Service - Two Men came from the Ten Shilling Creek Hunting Tent - Rec'd 120 Partridges 27 Rabbits 75 lbs Fish - 1 W Fox & 2 Martins"

Nov. 20
" Monday Wind variable from NW to W b S very Sharp Clear Weather -
Sent off the Hunters of Yesterday - All Hands as on the 13th Inst. - except two who are arranging Casks &c in the Log Tent."

Nov. 21
" Tuesday Wind variable from W b S to NW Cloudy Weather - with light Snow moderately Mild -
All Hands as before - except Carpenters who are making a light Timber Sled - to be hauled by a few Men - to convey Provisions Tools &c backwards & forwards from & to the Woods - Sent Cha's Isham to 10 Shilling Creek to look at some Beav'r Houses reported to be there -
Rec'd 45 lbs of Fish & 4 Partridges"

Nov. 22
" Wednesday Wind SW Sharp clear Weather -
All Hands as Yesterday - Rec'd 1 Rabbit & 8 Partridges"

Nov. 23
" Thursday Wind variable from NW to WNW clear sharp Weather -
Carpenters as before - all the rest Errecting Beacon acrofs the River & leveling Ice part of the Day - & part cutting fire Wood - All the Timber pieces on the plantation are squared ready for Building - the Whole Number amounts? to no more than 186 Logs. it will require 360 to Compleat the Flanker - The Sawyers measure their work Daily - & deliver'd on their Account Weekly - I squared the Whole the better to ascertain the Quantity in hand. it also was a spur to industry each set endeavouring to excell the Other - I intend if please god to send four sets of Sawyers to the Woods on Monday next"

Nov. 24
" Friday Wind variable from NW b N to WSW Clear fine Weather -
Carpenters finished Sled - All the men who are for the Woods on Monday next getting their things in readinefs, The rest variously engaged - one man came from the Ten Shilling Creek Hunting Tent
Rec'd 100 Partridges & 1 W Fox"

Nov. 25
" Saturday A Stiff Breeze NW Clear Weather & Severe
The Victually Hole & Watering Hole opened, part of the provisions laid to fresh last Saturday taken out & others put therein? - The Patroon & 6 Men came from the Woods to afsist the Sawyers with Provisions & Tools on Monday - One Man came from the French Creek Hunting Tent - Rec'd 50 Partridges 10 Rabbits & 11 lbs of Fish -"

Nov. 26
" Sunday Blowing strong NW Clear Sharp Weather -
The Hunter of Yesterday went to his Tent - A Man came from 10 Shilling Creek with 2 Beaver (caught by C Isham) & returned - Engaged the greatest part of this day delivering things to the Sawyers to set off to the Woods tomorrow"

Nov. 27
" Monday variable Winds NW to N Excefsive Sharp Weather
Sent off the Patroon & the Wooders of Saturday also the two Carpenters Cooper & five Men to prepare Timber, Quarterings Plank &c &c I have delivered them the Scantlings of each sort wanted - The Hunters at their respective Tents - The few at the Factory variously engaged - A Smith, A Taylor, a Cook a Cow Keeper J. Jennings Mefs Robinson Cook & J. C. - are the only persons remaining at the House except Tho's Sinclair an obstinate Idiot. it is dangerous to employ him with the other Men for fear of his doing them an Injury - As his capacity is not equal for other Duties I employ him cutting wood for our fires by which he saves the time of a better man
Late in the Evening Charles Isham returned the Weather being so intence he is unable for the present to take more Beaver
Rec'd 2 Partridges"

Nov. 28
" Tuesday Wind vered in the Night S by E & continued the Day in that Quarter fine Clear Weather -
Men variously engaged - Had the Musquets cleaned - reloaded & properly distributed - We are so pestered with Hawks owls & Ravens? which prey on the Partridges that so harafs these Birds & drive them from their feeding Grounds it is with difficulty any are killed notwithstanding their Quantities"

Nov. 29
" Wednesday Wind NE temporately Mild for the Season - All hands as on Monday"

Nov. 30
" Thursday Wind very variable till PM when it fixed at SE Clear Weather
All hands as before - Rec'd 54 Partridges & 4 W Foxes"

Dec. 1 1786
" Friday Wind variable almost round the Compafs in the Even'g fixed NW Cloudy Weather
All hands as before except one afsisting in Brewing - One Man came from 10 Shilling Creek Hunting Tent
Rec'd 200 Partridges & 1 Rabbit"

Dec. 2
" Saturday Wind NW Sharp Clear Weather Men variously engaged - sent off the Hunters of Yesterday & one Man came from French Creek
Rec'd 200 Partridges"

Dec. 3
" Sunday Wind & Weather as Yesterday -
The Hunter from French Creek went to his Tent
Divine Service - Rec'd 1 Rabbit"

Dec. 4
" Monday Wind variable from W to ? moderate & Cloudy. All Hands variously employed, the Wooders & Hunters from the Woods for Mr Robinsons Afsistance Having been laid up with the Country Distemper
Rec'd 18 Partridges"

Dec. 5
" Tuesday Wind variable from S to SE Cloudy Weather
The Men as before - Sent off the Wooders who came with Hugh Beakie Yesterday - Rec'd 35 Partridges"

Dec. 6
" Wednesday Wind AM SE fine & moderate - PM a strong Gale NW very severe Cold with snow -
All Hands Opening Water & Victualling Holes taking of & putting provisions therein - Afterwards variously employed
Rec'd 17 Partridges"

Dec. 7
" Thursday A Stiff Breeze part of the day & part a strong Gale NW Raw Cold & frosty
Tradesmen & Others variously engaged - Cha's Isham Afsisting me in collecting & sorting Gun flints for Inland - Pack'd up 3000 of the best for that Trade - also many small size Trading Goods in Boxes"

Dec. 8
" Friday Wind variable from NE to NNW Clear sharp Weath
All hands variously engaged. One man came from Ten Shilling Creek Hunting Tent. Rec'd 76 Partridges"

Dec. 9
" Saturday Wind variable from NW b W to W b S Clear Sharp Weather -
Sent off the Hunter of Yesterday to his Tent - All hands as before - Hugh Beakie on duty - Rec'd 20 Partridges"

Dec. 10
" Sunday Wind SW fine clear Sharp Weather -
One Man came from French Creek Hunting Tent -
Divine Service - Rec'd 120 Partridges 33 lbs Fish 5 Foxes & 1 Martin"

Dec. 11
" Monday Wind SW Cloudy Sharp Weather -
Sent off the Hunter of Yesterday to his Tent also Hugh Beakie to the Woods -
The Smith & Taylor at Work for Trade - others variously employed Grinding Oatmeal &c - Cha's Isham Afsisting me - Arranged Trading Goods ready for Indians who are daily expected"

Dec. 12
" Tuesday Wind SW variable NW Sharp clear Weather -
Men as Yesterday. One Man came from Ten Shilling Creek Hunting Tent with 225 Partridges & 1 Fox "

Dec. 13
" Wednesday Wind variable from SE to SW part cloudy & part fine Moderate Weather
All Hands as before. Sent off the Hunter of Yesterday - two Indian Men & their Wives &c - came in with a few Skins. They requested Leave to stay untill others of their family arrive who are expected daily - They are Strangers sent in by one of my Home Gaurds who met them going to the Canadian Traders - They declined Trading till their Friends are here"

Dec. 14
" Thursday A strong gale SE by S Cloudy drifting Weather & Cold
All Hands as before except the Smith who is mending Hunting Guns - Rec'd 1 White Fox & 2 Partridges"

Dec. 15
" Friday A Strong Gale all last night & part of this Day SW Cloudy Weather . Evening very rough? with much drift - All Hands as on Monday"

Dec. 16
" Saturday Wind SW & variable NW Sharp Clear Weather
All the Men opening & cleaning Victualling Hole taking Provisions out & putting others therein - One Man came from French Creek Hunting Tent with 60 Partridges 18 lbs of Fish & 2 Foxes"

Dec. 17
" Sunday Wind NW Sharp clear Weather -
Sent off Hunter of Yesterday to his Tent - Divine Service"

Dec. 18
" Monday Wind variable from SE to SSW Cloudy Sharp Weather
Taylor at work for Trade Smith repairing Hatchetts. 6 Hunters & 20 Wooders &c at their respective Tents. the few at the Factory variously engaged Hunting &c
Rec'd 110 Partridges"

Dec. 19
" Tuesday Light Airs SE Cloudy moderate Weather -
All Hands as Yesterday - Rec'd 27 Partridges"

Dec. 20
" Wednesday Light Airs ESE Cloudy moderate Weather
All Hands as before - Henry Garrock & 6 Men came from the Woods. he reports that upwards of 500 pieces of Timber are cut down & ? in heaps ready for Sawyers - Sent Chas' Isham & an Indian to cut ? for Snow Shoe frames - being much in want of these useful & necefsary appendages of Drefs - Rec'd 1 W Fox"

Dec. 21
" Thursday Light Airs variable from ESE to NW Cloudy Heavy Weather AM - PM Snow -
The Hunters came from Ten Shilling Creek & returned for their Bedding &c - As no foxes Martins or Fish are to be procured in that Quarter intend to send them to the Fourteens on? Ship River after Xmas where plenty of Game is ranging - The Tradesmen as on Monday - Charles Isham making Snow Shoes Garrock & 7 Men cutting Firewood the rest variously engaged
Rec'd 300 Partridges"

Dec. 22
" Friday Wind W by S & variable S Clear Sharp Weather towards Evening Cloudy -
All Hands as Yesterday - The Hunters I sent for their Bedding &c returned -"

Dec. 23
" Saturday Wind variable S by W part clear & part Cloudy Sharp Weather -
Remainder of Men came from the Woods (13) as did the Hunters from French Creek to stay at the Factory for Xmas Hollidays - All Hands till Noon at the Factory employed as before - when they Rec'd their provisions -
Rec'd 140 Partridges 1 W Fox & two Martins"

Dec. 24
" Sunday All last night a Strong Gale NW Day Light breezes Chearful pleasant Weather -
A Widow Native died on the plantation - early this Morning - Divine Service -"

Dec. 25
" Monday fine pleasant Weather & mild for the Season - Light Breezes NW -
Divine Service -"

Dec. 26
" Tuesday A fresh Gale NW very Sharp Clear Weather "

Dec. 27
" Wednesday A Strong Gale NW by W part Clear & part Cloudy very Severe Weather
Rec'd 1 Fox & 15 Partridges"

Dec. 28
" Thursday Light Breezes NW very Severe? part Clear & part Cloudy - Rec'd 7 Partridges"

Dec. 29
" Friday Wind variable from NW b W to S b E in the Evening Settled West Cloudy Weather with drifting Snow
The Natives who came in the 13th Inst. are apprehensive some Accident hath befell their friends crofsing the North River - Traded their Skins at 240? M. Beav. cheifly Martins. They intend going in pursuit of the others tomorrow. Part of the Men I sent off for Hay & Brot a large a large Sled load
A. Melvin under Mr Robinsons Care - Rec'd 2 foxes"

Dec. 30
" Saturday Gentle Breezes from W to NW Sharp Clear Weather
The Indians who Traded Yesterday set off to look for their friends. The Men went for Hay & bro't as before - Late in the Evening A Native Home Gaurd came to the Factory almost starving. he left his Wife & Children with Four other families two Days Journey. they are too weak as he says to travel being in a worse condition than himself - These are the Natives who came to the Factory 22nd Sept. for Mr Robinsons Afsistance & set off again a few days after. before they reached their Winter Quarters most of them fell sick & continued in that State ever since - & have been reduced to great hardships for want of Provisions"

Dec. 31
" Sunday Wind NW Clear Sharp Weather Divine Service"

Jan. 1 1787
" Monday Wind variable from N to NW Clear Sharp Weath.
Sent off 2 Men Dogs & Sleds (with the Indian mentioned on Saturday) to bring the Sick to the Factory - I hope I shall not incur displeasure by so doing. I confefs no precedent appears? - Humanity dictates - and I am well convinced that attention to sick Indians will gain the Affection of others of the Natives & be the Means of promoting the Trade at this place -
Accept the Warmest tribute of a grateful Heart & may the Year 1787 prove propitious to my Hon'ble Employers May Health & prosperity with every felicity be their Attendant Blefsing is my Ardent wish - & flows from the Lips of all under my Command
The Men compleat their Holliday diversions -"

Jan. 2
" Tuesday Wind SSW moderate Weather -
Large Sled load of Hay fetched from the Hay Island. Examined & overlooked Provisions & Stores - Laid out & marked the Ground ? factory in order to have the Woods cut down near it - Three Hunters & Eight Sawyers prepairing to set off tomorrow. Two Taylors at work for Men as is the Smith prepairing Hatchetts - others variously engaged"

Jan. 3
" Wednesday Wind NW very Sharp Cloudy Weather - PM a Strong Gale
Sent off Eight Sawyers to the Woods & 3 Hunters to the Eastern Shore - The Patroon & 10 Men cutting down woods near the Factory - Taylor, Smith & others as Yesterday. The two Men I sent with the Natives on Monday returned with about 100 M Beav - & report that the Indians were upw'ds of 50 Miles from the Factory - That they saw but two Men besides Women & Children the others being out procuring provisions - they declined riding on the Sled on account of the Severity of the Weather - but wou'd come so soon as able to the House - they left the Oatmeal Tobacco &c &c which I sent - The Men further say they have plenty of Beaver Coats amongst them - if so there is no fear of their perishing"

Jan. 4
" Thursday Wind variable SW b W to N part clear & part cloudy Cold Weather
All Hands as before except the two Men who came here Yesterday who are employed on necefsary duties at the Factory & one who is under Mr Robinsons care"

Jan. 5
" Friday Wind S by E cloudy Weather
All hands as before Except two who are under the care of Mr Robinson
The 5 families of Natives mentioned on Saturday came in 23 in Number part paid their Debt & traded near 260 MB - They killed 3 Beaver & 1 Porcupine coming to the Factory which they offered me for the Victuals &c I had sent them"

Jan. 6
" Saturday variable breezes from ESE to NW b N Cloudy cold & great drift
All Hands engaged part of the day as before - & part cutting firewood - Drying & stretching Skins - The sick as Yesterday"

Jan. 7
" Sunday variable from S by E to NW Cloudy Severe Drifting Weather - Divine Service - The sick as before"

Jan. 8
" Monday variable Wind from SE to SW & W by N Cloudy Cold Weather with light Snow -
Thirteen Men hauling Firewood into Yard & securing the Wood on plantation till Noon - Afternoon receiving provisions & making preparations to set off to the Woods tomorrow - Two Taylors at Work for Trade & Men - One preparing to go with Natives to Churchill with the Packet - The Sawyers Hunters & Sick as before - Others variously engaged -"

Jan. 9
" Tuesday Light Airs variable from S to E by N Cloudy Cold Weather with Snow -
Sent Henry Garrock & 11 Men to the Woods (they refused taking Tho's Sinclair with them) the rest as Yesterday except the Sick who are on duty - Prepared a packet for Churchill & closed the same. I must observe that the public Letter contains a list of different Articles wanting to compleat the Consignment to us (as specified in Invoice last Year) Also the overplus received - in case any of our Goods have been delivered there thro' Mistake - That the same may be placed to their Account - We shall be much distrefsed I am afraid for many Articles - to the Letter I refer for particulars"

Jan. 10
" Wednesday Light Airs variable almost around the Comp. AM Mild & Clear - PM Cloudy Cold with Light Snow -
At 9 AM sent off John Sturgis 2 Natives & 2 Dogs with Dispatches for Mr Hearne where I hope with the Afsistance of God they will Arrive - safe - Being much in want of many Articles of Trading Goods much called for Inland is the reason of my sending These people - All hands as before except Taylors who are at work for Trade only - Sent the Natives to set partridge Nets in the Marsh
Rec'd 42 Partridges & 1 W Fox"

Jan. 11
" Thursday variable Breezes SW to N Cloudy Cold Weather
all hands as before"

Jan. 12
" Friday Wind E by N & variable N cloudy & Cold light Snow
All hands as before except one who is under Mr Robinsons Care -"

Jan. 13
" Saturday Wind variable from N to NW by W Sharp Clear Weath
All Hands as before - One Man came from the Eastern Shore Hunters Tent
Rec'd 6 Foxes & 202 Partridges (86 of them Netted) "

Jan. 14
" Sunday A Strong Gale NW very severe part Clear & part cloudy - Divine Service"

Jan. 15
" Monday AM Stiff breezes SW sharp clear Weather - PM a strong Gale W Cloudy Snow? ?
Sent off the Hunter. The 20 Wooders and 8 Hunters at their respective Tents - two Taylors at Work for Trade others variously employed attending Guns round Factory Huntg &c &c - Rec'd 3 Partridges"

Jan. 16
" Tuesday A Brisk gale NW gradually increased the Whole day - towards Evening it blew a Hurricane with very severe thick Drift & Cloudy Weather -
All hands as Yesterday - An Indian youth who had long been a Cripple died this Evening on the Plantation
Rec'd 6 Partridges"

Jan. 17
" Wednesday Gale continues which somewhat abated towards Evening - Cloudy very severe Drifting Weather
All Hands as before -"

Jan. 18
" Thursday In the Night the Gale again increased & continued very boisterous till about 10 AM thick & cloudy - Afterw'd variable breezes from NW to SE by S Clear Severe Weather All Hands as before"

Jan. 19
" Friday variable Gales SE by S to NW very unsettled severe Weather & Cloudy
All Hands as before - Rec'd 1 Fox & bot? 6 pr Snow Shoes"

Jan. 20
" Saturday A Strong Gale NW drifting Cold Weather -
For days past we have had the severest Weather ever remembered by the Oldest Natives on the Plantation for a Continuance. Six Men came from the Woods for provisions who report that the Weather has been lately so severe - they were for days unable to do duty, even? on? the Woods which is considered here as a warm & comfortable Berth - The Hands at the Factory as before -
Rec'd 1 Martin"

Jan. 21
" Sunday Stiff Breezes Sharp Clear Weather - A Sawyer came from the Woods for a few Articles - Divine Service"

Jan. 22
" Monday Breezes W ly Clear Sharp Weather AM towards evening a brisk gale NW & Cloudy -
Early sent off the 6 Men Mentioned on Saturday with Provisions for All Hands at the Woods - to these I joined two Men so that I have 22 Men there - As Wm Bews is not able to do much at his own businefs without having a large fire I sent him to afsist the Wooders - Daily experience convinced me that more Coals were expended during the Cold Weather than double the Value of the Work executed - when the days become Longer then? he can be employed to advantage in his own Shop where I intend to keep him instead of setting him on other Duties unlefs on very urgent occaisions - The Taylors at Work for Trade. others variously engaged Hunting round the Factory &c &c
Rec'd 30 Partridges & 1 W Fox"

Jan. 23
" Tuesday A Brisk Gale SW Sharp clear Weather - All Hands as Yesterday - Rec'd 20 Partridges & 1 pr Snow Shoes"

Jan. 24
" Wednesday AM Gentle Breezes SW by S Cloudy Temporate Weather. PM a Strong Gale very Severe & much drift -
Four Men opening Victualling Hole. the Ice upwards of three feet thick froze within one Month. it employed the Men the Whole day to cut thro' Clean out & put in provisions - the rest as on Monday
Rec'd 35 Partridges"

Jan. 25
" Thursday AM Moderate Cloudy weather? with stiff Breezes SW & variable - PM a strong Gale NW very thick drift & severe Cold
All Hands as on Monday - Rec'd 1 Martin"

Jan. 26
" Friday A Stiff Breeze NW Sharp Clear Weather
All Hands as before"

Jan. 27
" Saturday A Stiff Breeze NW b W Clear sharp Weather -
One Hunter came from the Eastern Shore Hunting Tent - he declares the weather has been so intense for a fortnight past they were not able to go out of their Tent on the Shore & only caught 6 Birds in 9 days. The Patroon came to the House with 12 Men for Provisions for all Hands. The Sawyers are left to prosecute their Work - David Copeland much frost bit & finished? by the Severe Weather - This Man is very heavy & Slothful - & I find those who are least active are the first Affected by the Cold - All Hands at the House till Noon. afterwards receiving Provisions -
Rec'd 167 Partridges 3 Foxes & 1 pr Snow Shoes -"

Jan. 28
" Sunday Variable breezes almost round the Compafs - AM Clear Moderate Weather - PM more Cold blowing strong NW. The Hunter of yesterday went to his Tent - Men preparing for the Woods tomorrow - Divine Service -"

Jan. 29
" Monday Variable breezes from SW to NW Cloudy Weather with Snow AM - PM a Strong Gale & thick drift - Sent off the Men of Saturday to the Woods with 14 Days of provisions for all Hands there - 3 at the Hunting Tent - one with the Packet. 2 Taylors at Work for trade - others variously engaged Hunting &c
Rec'd 20 Partridges & 2 W Foxes"

Jan. 30
" Tuesday Blowing strong all last night which continued till 3 PM this day very Severe Weather afterw'd more mild & Clear
All Hands as before - Rec'd 2 W Foxes"

Jan. 31
" Wednesday Stiff Breezes NW by W Sharp clear Weather AM Cloudy & more mild PM
All Hands as before - Rec'd 26 Partridges & 2 W Foxes"

Feb. 1 1787
" Thursday Blowing strong NW Sharp Weather AM - PM Cloudy & more mild
All Hands as before"

Feb. 2
" Friday Breezes variable from W by S to SW by S Clear Sharp Weather - towards evening Cloudy with snow - All Hands as before except four who are employed opening Victualling Hole taking out (& putting Salt) provisions (there in) Rec'd 3 W Foxes"

Feb. 3
" Saturday Wind NW by W The Morning Cloudy & thick the remainder of the day clear & Sharp -
All Hands as before - One Man came from the Eastern Shore Hunting Tent with only 1 White Fox & Seventy Partridges - being the whole of this Weeks Hunt -
I am apprehensive the Partridges are leaving this Quarter - the weather having been so excefsive severe lately & from the Numerous Quantities seen together late in the Evening soaring in the Air & flying in a Sd direction from us - it is three days since we have had any caught by our home Hunters
The Brandy in the Casks is coagulated to the thicknefs of Cream. We are obliged to take out the Brafs Cock & even afsist it with two or three ? with a Gimblet. no appearance of a Liquid following - Our Wine is froze solid notwithstanding the warmth of my Room in the day - The Indians say they never knew the Weather so intense for a continuance. it is a happinefs our appartments are made far more Warm & comfortable otherwise the Consequence might have been fatal to many of the Men"

Feb. 4
" Sunday Wind SW part clear & part cloudy very severe
Divine Service - Sent off the Hunter of yesterday -
Rec'd 6 White Foxes"

Feb. 5
" Monday Variable breezes from SW to NW Clear moderate Weather -
twenty five Men at? their respective Tents. Two Taylors at work for Trade - The rest variously engaged writing Hunting &c - In the Evening Wm Sinclair came from the Eastern Shore Tent very ill. - Rec'd 30 Partridges & 1 W Fox."

Feb. 6
" Tuesday Stiff Breezes NW Clear Weather
All Hands as before except one under Mr Robinsons care. Sent Indians to kill partridges by the Gun -
Rec'd 48 Partridges"

Feb. 7
" Wednesday Breezes NW Cloudy temporate Weather AM. PM more cloud
All the men as before - The two Hunters from the Eastern Shore came ? the Factory - with only 19 Partridges - being the whole procured since Friday last - they left their Tent -
Rec'd from Hunters round Factory - 1 Martin 7 Foxes & 55 Partridges"

Feb. 8
" Thursday Breezes NW by W Clear fine Weather - Sent all spare hands as well as Indians Hunting -
Rec'd 100 Partridges"

Feb. 9
" Friday Moderate Breezes variable from SSW to S fine chearful Weather
All Hands as before - Sent the Two Hunters of the 7th Inst. to Stoney Rivers on the Eastern Shore to examine that part for Partridges - In the Evening J. Sturgis & the Native returned with the packet from Churchill (having been absent 31 Days) they give a Melancholy Account of their Journey of Sixteen Days before they reached that Factory - that it was with difficulty they were able to withstand the Weather - which was so intense as to destroy two valuable Dogs - the lofs of these animals will be much felt
Rec'd 60 Partridges & 2 W Foxes -"

feb. 10
" Saturday Wind variable from W to NW by N fine Temporate Weather
All Hands till Noon as before fourteen Men came from the Woods for Provisions - Wm Guthrie Accompanied them - to receive further directions having sawed all the diff't size Scantlings &c before ordered - One Man preparing to go to Severn with the Packet
Rec'd 4 W Foxes"

Feb. 11
" Sunday Wind WNW Clear sharp Weather
Engaged the whole of this day preparing Letters for Severn House - and the Settlements to the Southward - Closed the packet to send off tomorrow - The two Hunters I sent to Stoney Rivers on Friday returned with 50 Partridges & 1 W Fox"

Feb. 12
" Monday Wind SW by W Clear Sharp Weather -
Early this Morning sent off all the Wooders of Saturday to their Tent with 3 Weeks provisions ? ? ? sent Thomas Flett Taylor & two Indians with the packet to Severn &c - The Severn Letters contains a list of deficient Stores wanting to compleat the Cargo consign'd to this factory last year. Robt. Wilson wrote to be recalled ? Last Ship - Tho's Flett is sent to supply his place - Three Men preparing to set off tomorrow to Hunt Partridges &c at Stoney Rivers - Taylors & others variously engaged - Hunting &c
Rec'd 2 Partridges"

Feb. 13
" Tuesday Light breezes WSW Clear Sharp Weather
Sent off the Armourer - Bricklayer & Sailor to Stoney River - others as yesterday - had the Provisions overhauled & arrang'd
Rec'd 10 Partridges & 4 W Foxes"

Feb. 14
" Wednesday A Strong Gale ENE & variable Nly ? drifting Weather
All Hands as before - Sent Charles Isham to look at some Beaver Houses on a Lake in the Woods near the Sawyers Tent
Rec'd 9 Partridges & 1 Pr Snow Shoes- "

Feb. 15
" Thursday A Stiff Breeze NW & variable NNW part clear & part cloudy - with much drift & very sharp - A Strong Gale all last night with much drift - that rose the Snow in many places a great height & in others quite bare - All Hands as before - Rec'd 48 Partridges"

Feb. 16
" Friday A Stiff Breeze NW Sharp Clear Weather -
All Hands as before - Had the Victualling Hole opened - Chas Isham returned - says the Beaver Houses are so Situated it would require great lenght of time to take them at this Season of the Year - they are left till future opportunity
Rec'd 67 Partridges & 2 White Foxes"

Feb. 17
" Saturday Light Breezes NW Sharp clear Weather
All Hands as before except M Barron who is in a State of despondency & unable to do duty - Rec'd 44 partridges"

Feb. 18
" Sunday Light Breezes NW temporate fine Weather -
Matt'w Barron having shewn symptoms of Insanity for days past, between one & two oClock this Morning he became outrageous - almost every person at the House were obliged to set up with him to prevent his doing mischief - On the day he became so refractory as to get from the Men who had the care of him & run about naked (notwithstanding the severity of the Weather) threatening destruction to the Whole Factory -
Force was obliged to be used to compel him to his Cabbin where for safety he was confined with a Chain acrofs the Cabbin Door - & all destructive Weapons took from him - the Men refused staying in the House with him until this was done - Mr Robinson says he is unable to afford him any afsistance - Divine Service in the Evening"

Feb. 19
" Monday Stiff Breezes Nly very thick Cloudy Cold Weather with light Snow -
Twenty Five Men at their respective Tents one with the Packet - Two Taylors at Work for Trade - two Ill - the rest variously engaged - One Man came home from the Hunting Tent with 150 Partridges - Trusted 3 Indians who intend setting off tomorrow to Hunt for Martins &c - Rec'd 2 pr Snow Shoes"

Feb. 20
" Tuesday Light Breezes NNW fine Clear Weather -
Sent off the Hunter of Yesterday - Three familes of Indians 16 in Number set of to Hunt for small furrs - All Hands as before - M. Barrow so very delerious obliged to keep a Constant Watch over him - We are but 7? Officers & self included at the Factory, two of which are placed as a gaurd & relieved by others every three Hours - both day & night to prevent his doing Mischief
Rec'd 2 W Foxes & 6 Partridges"

Feb. 21
" Wednesday Breezes NNW fine Weather -
All hands as before except Wm Sinclair who is sent to the Hunting Tent in room of the Sailor (Wm Smith) who has orders to bring home his bedding &c to afsist at the Factory. Barrow continues delerious tho' not so outrageous as days past -
Rec'd 1 Fox & 3 Partridges"

Feb. 22
" Thursday Light Breezes NW fine pleasant Weather
Sent Cha's Isham to Hunt at the Back of this Island & sleep out a few nights - Wm Smith came from the Eastern Shore Hunting Tent to afsist at the Factory during M. Barrows Insanity - Rec'd 6 Partridges"

Feb. 23
" Friday Light Breezes NW by W Cloudy temporate Weather AM - Afterwards fine & Clear
All Hands as before - Rec'd 10 Partridges"

Feb. 24
" Saturday Variable Breezes from SW to S & SE part clear & part cloudy - temporately Mild -
One Man came from the Eastern Shore Hunting Tent - as did Chas' Isham from the back of the Island - Had the Victualling Hole opened - Men as before -
Rec'd 260 Partridges & 5 W Foxes"

Feb. 25
" Sunday Light breezes variable ESE to E fine Weather
The Hunter of Yesterday went to his Tent - Divine Service -
Rec'd 2 Rabbits & 1 Partridge"

Feb. 26
" Monday Light Airs variable from ENE to NNW temporately Mild AM - PM a stiff Breeze with drift Cloudy & Cold -
All Hands nearly the same as on the 20th except Chas Isham who went to the back of this Island -
Rec'd 5 Partridges"

Feb. 27
" Tuesday Breezes NW fine pleasant Weather
All Hands as before except 1 Brewing - Rec'd 8 Partridges"

Feb. 28
" Wednesday a Stiff Breeze NW & variable W b S Cloudy & cold AM - Afterwards fine & pleasant -
All Hands as before - Chas' Isham came to the Factory & returned to his Tent
Rec'd 2 Foxes 40 Partridges & 2 Rabbits"

Mar. 1 1787
" Thursday Wind variable from W to NW moderate AM with light Snow - PM a brisk gale with much Drift
All Hands as before - Had the Show Warehouse overhauled the Ice & Rime cleared from the Walls &c - In the Evening Robt. Wilson Taylor with two Indians arrived with a packet from Severn - they met my Packet men near the ? but coud not prevail with them to return back with them to that place -
Rec'd 1 Fox & 3 Partridges"

Mar. 2
" Friday Breezes N fine Clear Sharp Weather -
All spare Hands grinding Oatmeal - others as before
Rec'd 3 Partridges"

Mar. 3
" Saturday Breezes variable from N to W by S fine Clear Sharp Weather -
All Hands engaged as before till - one Man came from the Eastern Shore Hunting Tent - Cha's Isham from the Back of this Island & the Patroon & 14 Men from the Woods for Provisions they were obliged to Haul David Copeland home on Sleds he being unable to walk -
Rec'd 290 Partridges & 1 W Fox"

Mar. 4
" Sunday A Brisk Gale N & variable NW Cloudy Cold Weather with Snow - The Hunter went to his Tent - Divine Service -"

Mar. 5
" Monday Wind variable from N to NE Sharp Clear Weather - yet in the Sun Warm & thaws - The Hunters & Sawyers at their respective Tents. Sent 16 Men to Hay Island who made two trips with the Large Sled Loaded with Hay - Afterw'ds prepared to set off to the woods tomorrow - The Smith & Three Taylors at work for Severn - 2 Under Mr Robinsons care. The rest variously engaged - Prepared a packet & closed the same & pack'd up Stores for Severn House -"

Mar. 6
" Tuesday Variable Early SSE afterwards a Strong Gale NW Cloudy Weather with Snow Excefsive Cold - more so than I have felt it this Season -
Early this Morning sent off the Patroon & 13 Men to the Woods - Three Men who were to accompany them - doing Necefsary Duties at the House stay till tomorrow. Taylors at work for Trade - The Sick & others as Yesterday - One of the Indians who came with the Severn Packet (and intended setting off on return this Morning) taken very Ill with a Plurisy & is under Mr Robinsons Care -"

Mar. 7
" Wednesday Wind variable from SSE to SW by W fine Chearful Weather - PM a stiff Gale Westerly - Sent off the three Men as mentioned Yesterday to the Woods - The Sick & other as before
Rec'd 10 Partridges"

Mar. 8
" Thursday A Stiff Steady breeze W part clear & part Cloudy
The Sick & others as before - I set off to survey the Work &c at the Woods & was pleased to find the Men hath exceeded my expectations in the Quantity of Timber Sawed & Collected together squared for Building - Sufficient firewood for one Long Winters use is hauld to the Bank ready for rafting - & as there is enough felled for nearly two more - Gave orders for all the Timber Logs Plank &c &c to be got to the Banks Edge as fast as pofsible (not more than 200 Pieces are there at this time) to enable them to use expedition intend sending more Men to their Afsistance on Monday if please God - The Sawyer Pits & timber are nearly two Miles from the River it is attended with much difficulty & labour - with little snow on the Ground -
On my Return to the Factory much overflowing on the Ice that extended acrofs the River - About 6 Miles from the House upwards -
Late in the Evening three Indian Men & a Boy came to the factory (who set off the 20th) with a few Martin Skins
Rec'd 11 Partridges"

Mar. 9
" Friday Light Airs variable from NW to NE Cloudy temporate Weather -
The Men & Sick as on Wednesday - Mr Cook having exprefsed a desire to sleep in a Tent sent him this Morning to the Eastern Shore - with orders for one of the Hunters to come to the Factory tomorrow to prepare for the Woods -
The Natives of Yesterday part paid their Debts - gave them Oatmeal &c - and they set off to their familes & In the Afternoon a North River Native (a Leader) & 3 other Natives &c arrived with Sleds appearantly well Loaded with Furrs. they are too intent on Drinking to Trade only for a supply of Liquor"

Mar. 10
" Saturday Steady breeze NW fine Clear sharp Weather
Had the Victualling Hole opend. the sick & others as before - Mr Cook & 2 Hunters came from the Eastern Shore -
The Natives of Yesterday traded upwards of 200 M Beaver in various furrs - They Came for necefsary Articles of Trading Goods - & say they have a Quantity of Furrs at their Winters Station with their families - who are about 20 Days Journey from York - but expect to be in again when the River is clear of Ice
Rec'd 200 Partridges 1 Martin & 1 Rabbit"

Mar. 11
" Sunday Breezes Nly variable PM WSW? Clear sharp Weather - tho' much thaw in the sun. The Natives too much Innebriated to set off - four Men preparing for the Woods tomorrow. Armourer mending Guns for Indians"

Mar. 12
" Monday Breezes NW fine Sharp Clear Weather -
Early this Morning sent four Men to afsist the 22 at the Woods - Armourer went to his Tent - Eight are left at the Factory of whom M Barrow & David Copeland are unfit for Duty - One Mans time is taken up attending on the former. The rest variously engaged - Severn Indian very Ill -
Rec'd 2 Rabbits & 8 Partridges"

Mar. 13
" Tuesday Light Airs SE fine pleasant Weather tho' Severe Cold - PM wind variable Ely -
Early this Morning the Natives of Friday set off - promifses to bring many Strangers in Summer - Sent Chas Isham to the Back of this Island
The Sick & others as before - Rec'd 9 Partridges"

Mar. 14
" Wednesday Steady breeze SE pleasant Weather much thaw in the Sun but sharp in the Shade. The Sick & others as before - Stretching Skins &c &c At noon the 2 Indians I sent with Thomas Flett & packet to Severn on the 12th Ult. returned - Chas Isham came from his Tent - Rec'd 4 foxes & 39 Partridges"

Mar. 15
" Thursday Breezes Ely fine clear Weather
The Sick & others as before - Rec'd 28 Partridges & 1 Rabbit"

Mar. 16
" Friday A Strong Gale ESE & variable SE by S Cloudy Cold Weather with much Snow -
The Sick & others as before except Chas Isham who is under Mr Robinsons care - The Severn Indian better - prepared an after packet & closed the same for Mr Ballenden"

Mar. 17
" Saturday Wind Ely & variable almost round the Compafs - Cloudy thick Weather with Snow -
Men as before - One Man came from the Eastern Shore Hunting Tent as did 9 Men from the Woods with part of their Tools &c
Rec'd 200 Partridges & 5 W Foxes & 1 Martin"

Mar. 18
" Sunday Stiff breezes W & variable with a brisk gale NW. The Early part of the Day Cloudy. Middle Clear Latter part snow. More Snow has fell these last two Days & is deeper on the Ground than has been for the Whole Winter. The Indians who came with the Packet from Severn the 1st Inst. set off for that place - The Hunter & Eight of the Men (from the Woods) as mentioned Yesterday - went to their respective Tents - Divine Service -"

Mar. 19
" Monday A Strong Gale NW Cloudy Drifting Snow very bad weather - PM More moderate & Clear
Twenty five Men at the Woods - two at the Hunting Tent. M Barron & David Copeland unable for Duty - the rest at the House variously engaged - Writing & preparing Shot Bags for Inland &c &c - Discharged Wm Dean from the Office of Steward - Waste of Provisions & stores in his Custody & partiallity in serving out - Wm Sinclair appointed to fill that Station"

Mar. 20
" Tuesday A Stiff Breeze NW Clear & temporate AM - PM a fresh Gale & very Cold -
All Hands as Yesterday - A Dog belonging to Severn came to the Factory last night - sent a Man with it early to the Eastern Shore where I suppose the packet Indians are detained by the bad Weather as without the Afsistance of this Animal they would have difficulty to reach that Settlement. one of the Men so Weak. One man came from the Hunting Tent with 50 Partridges"

Mar. 21
" Wednesday Breezes variable from NW to NNE Clear Sharp Weather
The Hunter went to his Tent. the Men as before. Had the Victualling Hole opend -"

Mar. 22
" Thursday Light Breezes fine pleasant Weather -
Sick & others as before - Chas Isham went to his Tent"

Mar. 23
" Friday A Stiff Breeze NW very Sharp AM - PM Light fine & pleas't -
All Hands as Yesterday - Two Indians & their families preparing to leave the factory to Hunt over the North River until the commencement of the Goose Season -"

Mar. 24
" Saturday A Stiff Breeze SE & variable SW fine pleas't. Two Ind'ns & families 10 in Number left the plantation - All the Wooders & Sawyers came home with their Bedding Tools &c &c having compleated the necefsary Duties as ordered at the Woods - The Hunters also left their Tents & came to the Factory -
Rec'd 100 Partridges 8 Foxes & 1 Martin"

Mar. 25
" Sunday Light Breezes N & variable E fine pleas't Weather & much thaw -
The Men employed the greatest part of this day cleaning Ice &c from their Cabbins - baking Bread &c In the Evening 2 ? Indians came in with a few Martins Skins &c
Rec'd 3 W Foxes"

Mar. 26
" Monday Light Breezes E & variable S fine warm Weather
Sent 24 Men with Large Sled to 10 Shilling Creek for a Boat left there last fall & to load it with Hay on their return - One sent round setting Guns. Two Grinding Oatmeal - Guthrie afsisting me - Measuring & laying out ground for Building - the rest variously employed - Traded with the Natives of last Night - Rec'd 10 Partridges & 1 W Fox"

Mar. 27
" Tuesday Stiff Breeze NW Cold Cloudy Weather
Three Taylors at work for Trade - All the Tradesmen cleaning their Shops preparing Tools &c. The Labourers engaged clean'g & wheeling? snow from the Yard &c - the Natives who traded yesterday set off to their families -
Rec'd 3 W & 1 Red Fox from setting Guns"

Mar. 28
" Wednesday Stiff breezes NNW fine clear Sharp Weather
All the Tradesmen at their respective Occupations except the Bricklayer who gives me much uneasinefs he being of so unhappy & unsettled dispostion - Labourers as yesterday except two who are brewing - Writing - Stretching & tying up Skins employs the rest - began framework for Building Shops &c - Rec'd 2 W Foxes"

Mar. 29
" Thursday Stiff Breeze NNW Sharp Clear Weather -
All Hands as Yesterday except two who are Hunting
Rec'd 28 Partridges & 2 W Foxes"

Mar. 30
" Friday Steady Breeze Nly very Sharp Clear Weather -
All Hands as before. Partridges are again become scarce. Sent Cha's Isham & 1 Man to the back of this Island to Hunt - Rec'd 9 Partridges"

Mar. 31
" Saturday Light Airs Nly Mild part clear & part Cloudy Weather -
All Hands as before till Noon except 3 who are opening the Victualling Hole - One Man came from the Back of the Island
Rec'd 40 Partridges & 7 W Foxes"

April 1 1787
" Sunday A Strong Gale all last night Nly it abated this Morning - A Stiff Breeze NW Clear Sharp Weather. The Hunter of Yesterday went to his Tent - Divine Service"

Apr. 2
" Monday A Strong Gale variable from W to SSE Cloudy Cold Weather with much drift PM - More Mild towards Even'g very warm with Thunder -
All the Tradesmen & afsistants at their various occupations - Labourers cleaning Snow from the yard (the snow on the plantation within the Works it is drifted very high) except four who are preparing Sinnet Tobacco Kegs? &c - for Inland use - One under Mr Robinsons Care - the rest variously engaged. Matt. Barrow on Duty -
Rec'd 1 Red Fox"

Apr. 3
" Tuesday Wind very variable all night with a severe frost - Steady Breezes Nly AM - Afterwards light Airs & pleas't. obliged to send all the Labourers with the Tradesmen (Carpenters excepted) for Hay - After'ds all Hands preparing to set off to the Woods tomorrow for Quartering &c to prosecute Buildings - having no Timber proper at the Factory -
Rec'd 2 W Foxes 1 Martin & 6 Partridges"

Apr. 4
" Wednesday Stiff Breezes Nly Clear Sharp Weather
About Midnight Henry Garrock & 22 Men set off to the Woods with Large Sled - Tradesmen ( They returned in the Afternoon) - the Sick & others as on Monday - Rec'd 38 Partridges & 5 W Foxes"

Apr. 5
" Thursday Gentle Breezes NE Sharp in the Shade thaws much in the Sun -
All the Men as on Monday - except two who are Grinding Oatmeal & 2 Under Mr Robinsons care -
Rec'd 2 Partridges"

Apr. 6
" Friday Gentle breezes SSE fine clear Weather much thaw in the Sun - & for the first time this Season the Water runs in a Stream from the Factory to the River - This being Good friday - the same was observed & kept no work permitted at the Factory - Divine Service - Charles Isham came to the House with 130 Partridges & 3 White Foxes - Snow Birds begin to be Numerous -"

Apr. 7
" Saturday A hard Gale of Wind all last night NW so violent as to strik the Lead off part of the Warehouse - it abated towards Morning with sharp clear Weather -
Sent H Garrock & seven Men for a large new Becon? which? layed at the Back of this Island - it proves to be one of those drove from her Moorings in 1784 Occasioned by its being laid down without a Swivel - Cha's Isham went to his Tent - The rest as before -
In the Afternoon an Indian & family came in for the Goose hunt paid his Debt & traded a few Skins"

Apr. 8
" Sunday Light Airs SSE Cloudy Mild Weather with Snow AM - PM more clear & fine
Cha's Isham came to the House - as did two Natives from the North River who traded a few Skins -
Rec'd 2 Foxes 26 Partridges & 1 Rabbit"

Apr. 9
" Monday Light Airs variable from SE to NE & NNW part clear & part Cloudy Mild Weather with light Snow
The Natives of Yesterday set off to their families - as did Cha's Isham to his Tent - All the Tradesmen & afsistants engaged in their respective Occupations - Labourers variously employed - Laid the Foundation for Building a Coopers - Carpenters Shop &c &c"

Apr. 10
" Tuesday Breezes Nly Clear Sharp Weather AM - PM more Mild
Tradesmen as Yesterday - Bricklayer & 2 Men set lime kiln - the rest mending & lengthening Deer hedge & setting Snares
Two families of Indians came to the factory for the Goose Hunt they brought a few Skins paid their Debt & Traded"

Apr. 11
" Wednesday Gentle breezes variable from S by E to SW fine clear Mild Weather. Morning Sharp & day Warm -
All Hands as Yesterday except two who were sent to bring home Tent & Guns from Eastern Shore - The Deerhedge finished"

Apr. 12
" Thursday Light Airs Nly & variable NE fine pleas't Weather - PM breezes Nly
Tradesmen & afsistants as before - two Sorting & Straightg Nails - Three making Sinnet - The rest cleaning snow &c from Yard . C Isham & the Man I sent to the back of the Island returned to the Factory -
Rec'd 97 Partridges & 5 Foxes -"

Apr. 13
" Friday Gentle breezes NE - AM Cloudy with Snow - PM fine & Clear Mild Weather -
All Hands as before except having the victualling hole opened - Had the Trading room overhauled & Goods arranged - Sent two Indians Men to look for Deer the tracks of many having been seen near the House on the River Ice"

Apr. 14
" Saturday Breezes Sly part clear & part cloudy Weather
All Hands as? before? engaged till noon as on Thursday when they rec'd provisions & for the first time this Season had only one days fresh Meat - All the Men petitioned not to be serv'd out Geese Rec'd from Severn - as they were unfit for human Eating. Each Mefs produced large Quantities that had been served out for a long time back which are rotten -
In the Afternoon the two Indians who were hunting over the North River came to the factory for the Goose Hunt as did the two Natives who went out Yesterday to look for Deer returned unsuccefsful -
Towards Evening a few Drops of Rain fell the first for nearly 6 Months - the last Rain at York was on the 19th Octob'r which is 177 Days"

Apr. 15
" Sunday A hard Gale of Wind all last night & continued till Noon this Day Nly & variable NW very Cold
The two families of the Natives of Yesterday came in afterwards they Rec'd the Usual Annual Treat prior to the Goose Hunt"

Apr. 16
" Monday A Stiff Breeze N by W & variable Nly Clear Cold Weather
All the Tradesmen & afsistants at their respective Occupations & Labourers variously employed making Sinnet - Straightening Nails - & Collecting Iron &c together & Cleaning Yard &c &c
All the Natives set off to tent at the Back of this Island for the Goose Season, in Number 37 - Amongst these Only 5 Men Hunters - 10 Women & the rest Children & for the first time since my Arrival in this Country - We are clear of Natives - for I sent off all who were on the Plantation -"

Apr. 17
" Tuesday Stiff Breeze Nly AM with Cold Clear Weather - PM Light breezes variable almost round the Compafs & very Mild -
All Hands as Yesterday except a few who are afsisting in removing & examining Provisions in Log tent & had the same cleaned out"

Apr. 18
" Wednesday Variable Winds from SE to SW AM Cloudy - PM Snow & very thick -
All Hands till noon as before - when the Weather became so bad no one could work without Doors - This Morning had the remaining Casks of Provisions & Stores overhauled in the Warehouse - Found four Casks of Oatmeal which I suppose to belong to the Invoice of 86 - having no mark or number thereon - have placed them to the last Years Account - Rec'd 1 W Fox"

Apr. 19
" Thursday Light breezes Variable SSE to S fine pleas't Warm Weather -
The Tradesmen & part of the Labourers as on Monday - Had all the Trading Goods examined - All the Skins loosed & put to dry before Packing - Began Weighing Shot for Inland -"

Apr. 20
" Friday Light breezes Variable almost round the Compafs - part Clear & part cloudy Warm Weather -
Tradesmen & afsistants as before. Labourers opening victualling Hole - Screening Lime afsisting at the Prefs & other necefsary Duties - Pack'd this Morning upwards of 1000 M Beaver of Different sorts of Furrs"

Apr. 21
" Saturday Stiff Breezes Variable from N to NNE part clear & part Cloudy Weather. Raw Cold -
All hands till Noon as on Monday - An Indian came from the back of the Island for Deer Skins for Snow Shoes"

Apr. 22
" Sunday A Stiff Breeze NE by E Raw Cold - Divine Service -"

Apr. 23
" Monday A Brisk Gale NE by E cold weather till Evening - when it blew strong ESE with Rain hail sleet & snow each alternately -
All hands variously engaged till Breakfast aferwards exercising Small Arms - In the Evening two Natives came to the House with two small Doe Deer they killed near Flambro' House which they Traded & returned to their Families"

Apr. 24
" Tuesday A Steady Breeze NE by E Cloudy Cold Weather -
The Armourer, two Taylors - one Carpenter & a few Labourers are the only Men on Duty - Two Natives came from the Goose Tent for Oatmeal &c for their families"

Apr. 25
" Wednesday A Stiff breeze Eastly fine clear tho' cold Weather -
Tradesmen & Afsistants at their respective Occupations. Labourers variously employed afsisting packing Trading Goods for Inland - Sorting Iron - Bricks &c"

Apr. 26
" Thursday Gentle Breezes first part of the Day afterw'ds a brisk Gale Eastly fine Clear Weather - In the Evening it became Cloudy & froze hard -
All Hands as Yesterday - Ducks were seen flying near the Factory for the first time this Season -"

Apr. 27
" Friday Light Airs & Gentle Breezes Ely with Cloudy Cold Weather -
All Hands as before - In the Afternoon the Natives brot 6 Deer Weight 500 lbs which they Traded with 7 Pairs of Snow Shoes & returned to their Tents -"

Apr. 28
" Saturday Wind & Weather AM as Yesterday - PM a Stiff Breeze -
Mens employ till noon as before except three who were Engaged opening the Victualling Hole taking out Provisions & laying up Netts & Rings &c &c - for Next Season -
Pack'd up this Week 77 Bundles of Cloth & Trading Goods for Inland amounting in the Whole to 4738 Made Beaver -
I have the pleasure & satisfaction of seeing Compleated Commodious Shops for Carpenter Cooper &c & Store Rooms for Goods. As large Building as Any yet at the Factory began & compleated in five Weeks -"

Apr. 29
" Sunday Stiff breeze Ely Cold Rime & Cloudy Weather. Divine Service"

Apr. 30
" Monday A Steady Breeze Ely Cloudy & Cold Weather -
Carpenters & Afsistants began to lay the flooring of the Eastern flanker - The rest of the Tradesmen at their respective Occupations except the Bricklayer who is with One Man Weather boarding the Mens Cook Room, the Roof of which is only covered with 2 Inch Plank laid flat - that it was only a Shelter from the Wind for in Rainy Weather the Men were obliged to Work with Great coats on in it & often times were wet to their Skin - The rest of the Men variously engaged"

May 1 1787
" Tuesday Light Airs variable from E to SW fine Weather. We have had the Easterly Winds for many Days past during which remarkably Cold for the Season - it no sooner shifted this Day but Geese began to fly - Many seen near the Factory. All Hands as Yesterday - Rec'd 1 Goose & 1 otter"

May 2
" Wednesday Breezes SW fine pleas't Weather -
The Carpenter finishd Cellar & began the Ground floor & building up Flanker - the rest as before except two who are Brewing - Rec'd 3 partridges & 1 Duck"

May 3
" Thursday Breezes SSW till the Afternoon when it became variable to NW - N by E & Ely - The Evening settled SE fine Weather -
All Hands as before - Much Water on the River Ice - & a clear open Sea is desernable with our Glafses tho far Distant
John Moad had the misfortune to hurt himself by a large stick falling on his Wrist -
Rec'd 8 Geese 3 Ducks & 1 Pr Snow Shoes"

May 4
" Friday Pleasant Breezes SSE with fine clear warm Weather. PM variable Winds Ely Cloudy & Cold
All Hands as before - Rec';d 2 Geese"

May 5
" Saturday Wind NE Cold cloudy Weather with Rain & Hail - Towards Evening a Stiff Breeze with Sleet & Snow -
Too bad Weather to Work without Doors - All Hands variously engaged in the House & Shops - This Week (Early in the Mornings) the Gun Powder hath been examin'd & nearly 1000 lbs weight packed up in Rundlets for Inland - A Great Number slung to hold Brandy for that Trade - Justice obliges me to say that the Small Rundlets sent out last Year (filled with Flour) are very bad - their Staves full of worm Holes - Two Men have been employed near one Week & coud not turn forty out of hand to be depended on -"

May 6
" Sunday A Brisk Gale Nly Cold frosty Cloudy Weather AM - PM more clear & blowing Strong - Divine Service"

May 7
" Monday Early this Morning A Stiff Breeze Nly with Cloudy Cold Weather - Afterwards Light Airs fine clear & Warm. Carpenters & Afsistants (to whom I have Added two Men more) Building up Flanker - Bricklayer & Labourer under pinning Do.[Ditto] Smith Making Staples for Rafting Timber &c two Taylors at work for Trade. one making Cloathing for Men Inland - (he hath been employed nearly Six Weeks on this Duty) Cooper & Afsistants repairing New Rundlets for Inland - as is the Armourer examining New Guns for that Trade
One pair of Sawyers preparing Quartering &c - Six Labourers opening Cellar in Garden - Three under Mr Robinsons care. the rest variously engaged - very few Ducks or Geese to be seen neither Game of any sort stirring"

May 8
" Tuesday A Stiff Breeze Variable from E to SE Cloudy Cold Weather with much Rain & Snow -
Too Bad Weather for Men to work without Doors greatest part of the Day. Tradesmen at work in House & Shops. Labourers picking Oakum
Rec'd 7 Geese 10 Ducks & 7 Pair Snow Shoes"

May 9
" Wednesday Gentle breezes variable almost round the Compafs - fine pleasant Weather -
All hands as on Monday except two of the sick who are recovered & on Duty - J Moad under Mr Robinsons care -
Rec'd 2 Ducks"

May 10
" Thursday A Stiff Breeze variable from E by N to NNW very Cold Weather freezing Sharp the whole Day
All Hands as before except Bricklayer (too severe for Mortar) who is afsisting opening Cellar in Garden - The Ground is so hard froze that it is attended with much difficulty & labour to break thro' to get at the Casks"

May 11
" Friday A Stiff Breeze Variable from N to E AM - PM a hard Gale NE with Hail & Rain - excefsive cold in the Evening it became boisterous -
Tradesmen & afsistants as before, emptid the Cellar in the Garden - Stowed away Brandy & porter in the New Cellar in Flanker - I am pleased to find the precation? I used enclosing the Porter, not any is froze or cask injured notwithstanding the severity of the Winter
I have been fortunate in preserving Greens - Stored sufficient Quantity for a Winters supply in the Fall. the last boiling expended today"

May 12
" Saturday Very uncomfortable Cold Weather - Rain sleet & Hail at times fine each alternately. Wind variable from NE to S -
All Hands variously engaged without Doors when the weather would permit - At? others in the House & Shops I have the satisfaction of seeing the Flanker built up to the flooring of upper story ready for Girders & Joice - & a proper Necefsary errected behind the Works & a distance from the house - fixed many feet from the ? Ground with a platform thereto 20 feet long & 7 ft wide - also laid a floor in the lower Warehouse ready to stow away Skins against Mr Tomisons return from Inland"

May 13
" Sunday Light Airs variable almost round the Compafs AM with Clear fine Weather - PM breezes Ely towards evening Cloudy Cold with much rain -
Divine Service - A Strong Current between the Bank & the River Ice - the Shores are Nearly Clear but the Whole body stands firm
Rec'd 29 Geese & 10 Ducks"

May 14
" Monday Much Rain all last night Breezes Ely Cloudy Wet Weather AM - PM more fine & Clear in the Evening much Rain
Carpenters & Afsistants began laying Girders & Joice for the flooring of Flanker. One pr of Sawyers preparing Shelf? & Bricklayer underpinning Do. - Smith - Cooper - Armourer & 2 Taylors at work for Inland. Labourers variously engaged -
In the Afternoon sent for a small Deer killed by Indians a short Distance from the House Wt 53 lbs - A few Swans & Swallows seen flying near the House -
Rec'd 10 Ducks"

May 15
" Tuesday Wind very variable from E to S part clear & part cloudy & at times Rain. the middle of the day excefsive Warm -
All hands as Yesterday except two who are brewing - Catched a young Deer in the Snares of the Hedge Wt 55 lbs - Bricklayer finished the underpinning of Flanker as did the Armourer the cleaning of New Trading Guns for Inland"

May 16
" Wednesday Wind & Weather nearly as Yesterday. Sent Cha's Isham - the Bricklayer Robt Wilson & William Dean to Tent near the Marsh & hunt Geese. for the few sent in by the Natives is Scarcely a Supply of fresh Provisions for all the Men - Tradesmen as before - Labourers all engaged in the (Factory) Creek of which I turned the Current a greater Distance from the Factory - Caught a fine Buck Deer in the Snares - Weighd 160 lbs
Rec'd 14 Geese 6 Ducks & 1 pr Snow Shoes"

May 17
" Thursday Wind variable from NE to NW with Rain Hail & Sleet very uncomfortable Cold Weather AM - PM Much Snow & Cloudy the whole Day -
Too bad Weather for Men to work without Doors - Tradesmen engaged in their Shops - Labourers picking Oakum Grinding Oatmeal &c
The River Ice (this Morning) began breaking up abt four Miles above the House - but remained from abreast the Factory till the Afternoon when it gave way in many places near the Shore both below & above us -"

May 18
" Friday Wind Nly very Cloudy & uncomfortable Cold Weather with Rain Hail Sleet & Snow AM - PM a Strong NE b E very Cold -
Men as Yesterday - two under Mr Robinsons Care -
This Morning early the Men on watch gave Notice that the Ice was going quikly? down the River & by 3 oClock AM pafsed the House - The water not raising the whole time above the Usual height of Spring Tides - by 6 oClock we had a Clear River - & but a small Quantity of Ice left on the Shores? - the Opposite Channel of the River or what is called the So. Channel remains firm -"

May 19
" Saturday Strong Gale all last night (very Cold & severe frost) which continued till Noon. NE cloudy Weather - Afterward more Clear & moderate
Men as Yesterday till Noon - The four I sent out on Wednesday came home with only 1 Goose 2 Ducks & 2 plover being the whole killed by them so few seen flying -
the Girders & Joice laid this Week for Room floor of Flanker . unable to proceed farther for want of Wood - Carpenters employd in bad weather preparing Stuff for Window
In the Afternoon A Native Half Bungee & family came to the house paid his Debt & traded a few Skins -
Rec'd 6 Geese - 6 Ducks & 1 pr Snow Shoes"

May 20
" Sunday A Strong Gale all last night Nly a severe frost with snow - which continued the whole day -
Employed part of the day in Trading Room -"

May 21
" Monday wind variable from N to NW Cloudy Cold ? AM - Afterwards a fresh Gale SW fine Weather. towards Even'g almost Calm with Snow -
Carpenters fixing Beaver Prefs. Smith Armourer Cooper & two Taylors at work for Inland - Two Men mending boats. 2 Brewing. 3 in a Boat collecting Stones - the rest variously employed - picking Oakum &c &c - Mefs Robinson & Cook &c went to ten Shilling to try for fish -
Finished Trading with the Natives of Saturday"

May 22
" Tuesday A strong Gale all last night with much snow & very severe frost (the Snow nearly 2 feet deep this morning within the Stockades) Cloudy cold weather at times Snow with breezes Nly the whole Day -
Too bad weather for Men to work without Doors variously engaged in house & Shops -
Apprehensive for the safety of Mefs Robinson & Cook &c &c - Sent four Men early in a boat to see after & bring them home - they met them on the Mile sand much frost bitten, where they were obliged to put up last night - the boat (they were in) proved so Leaky they Narrowly escaped with their Lives crofsing to it"

May 23
" Wednesday Variable breezes from NE to NW AM Cold & Cloudy - PM pleasant & Mild -
Men employed in the house till Noon afterwards as on Monday except the Brewers who were sent to bring home a Deer from the Hedge Wt 73 lbs. Towards Evening 6 Canoes of Homegaurd Natives came to the Factory as did 3 of Bungees - these latter are Strangers sent by others of that Tribe who visited this place last fall -
Rec'd 16 lbs Beaver flesh"

May 24
" Thursday Variable breezes from NW to N very Cold Cloudy weather with Snow & hail
Snow too deep & Weather too bad for men to work without Doors. In the Afternoon sent three Men in a Boat to collect lime Stones - Rec'd 3 Geese"

May 25
" Friday Breezes variable from N to NE & E much snow fell last night with a severe frost - Day fine tho' Cold
Tradesmen except Carpenters as on Monday last - Labourers breaking stones for lime kiln - Two Men under Mr Robinsons care -
Home Natives of Wednesday paid their debt - they brought a fine afsortment of Furs. Each Canoe of that Day in an average amounts to upw'ds of 100 M Beav'r
Rec'd 6 Geese"

May 26
" Saturday Light Airs & gentle breezes variable from ENE to SSE fine pleasant weather
All hands as before - except three Men with a boat who are sent to Ten Shilling Creek to try for fish
Rec'd 33 lbs Fish 1 Goose & ? Bear flesh"

May 27
" Sunday AM a Steady Breeze SW - Noon a fresh Gale & towards Evening an easy breeze fine Weather -
Smoaked & finished Trade with the Bungee Natives of Wednesday. Made one a Lieutenant"

May 28
" Monday Light Airs & gentle breezes variable from SW to NE fine Weather -
Tradesmen variously employed on Factory & Inland duties as are Labourers engaged setting Lime Kiln & preparing to set off to the Woods tomorrow &c &c - Early this Morning the Bungee Natives of Wednesday last set off & the home gaurds of that day finished their Trade - at Noon a Northern Leader Attended by Men in 13 Canoes Arrived - (Appearantly well loaded with furrs) - as did all the Natives from the Goose Tent from the Back of this Island - paid the Hunter for the Geese killed -"

May 29
" Tuesday Wind Nly Cloudy Weather with Snow -
The Men as Yesterday - except 6 in a Boat sent to the Woods to raft home plank &c - they returned in the Evening with a few pieces of timber on which they rafted plank - unable to bring more for want of Boats to afsist
Natives too much inebriated to Trade only for a supply of Liquor -"

May 30
" Wednesday Light breezes variable from N to NNW Cloudy Cold Weather -
Carpenters preparing plank & stuff for building. others as on Monday - except two who are brewing - & then sent in a boat to try for fish - (Caught 34 lbs) -
? ? ? ? ? ? -
Little businefs done with the Natives only for a supply of Liquor"

May 31
" Thursday Much snow last night & very cold. Day mild & clear with variable breezes almost round the Compafs
All Hands as Yesterday except the Men who were fishing. two under Mr Robinsons care
Natives as Yesterday"

June 1 1787
" Friday Light breezes AM NE Cloudy & Cold - PM Rain & Raw cold
Early this Morning sent 6 Men to the Woods they returned in the Evening with 1 Raft of Timber & plank tho with much difficulty The River so full of Shoals - The rest of the men as before
The Natives of Monday finished their Trade they brought a Good afsortment of Skins but no Martins - they acknowledged a large Quantity of Small furrs were left behind with their families & that their Canoes were unable to bring the Whole - but I am afraid these are intended for a different Settlement as on their Arrival one of the Head Men wore a Canadian Leaders uniform
As the Leader brot no Pipe Stems with him I presented him a handsome Calamet & in order to establish a firm friendship with him & his followers Smoaked out of it with the whole. made them various presents & promised them others on their bringing the rest of their furrs down. after this they one & all appeared satisfied & afsured me they would never visit any other place while they Rec'd good usage at YF, which was the reason of their leaving it before"

June 2
' Saturday Snow last night & a severe frost Wind NNE Cloudy & Cold
Men as Yesterday except four who were at the Woods are sent to try for fish. Five on Mr Robinsons list. The Weather is so unsettled & cold for the Season of the Year no Man is able to withstand two days together without being taken Ill. fresh provisions very Scarce - no Game of any sort Stirring
All the Home Natives took up small ? to Hunt Deer. Weather too Cold for them & those of Yesterday to set off
Rec'd 36 lbs of Fish & 14 lbs Beaver flesh "

June 3
"Sunday AM Breezes Ely clear Cold Weather - PM Cloudy & towards Evening a Strong Gale -
Early this Morning three Bungee Natives who left the factory last Monday returned with a good supply of Venison &c which they trad'd ? ? ? ? then setting off and in the Afternoon a leader attended by Men &c in 22 Canoes arrived chiefly home Gaurds - one of them ( A Good Hunter) has been a Cripple ever since he left the Factory last fall his family which is large hath been supported by other Natives all the Winter. I have at this time Three Hundred Natives on the plantation of which only 45 Men - the rest Women & Young Children
Rec'd 746 lbs of Venison 13 lbs Beavers flesh & 1 Sturgeon Wt 22 lbs"

June 4
" Monday A Strong Gale all last night which continues this day Ely very Cold & Cloudy with Snow, Hail, Sleet
Too bad Weather for Men to Work without doors. they were variously employed in the House - Five under Mr Robinsons care -
Little businefs done with Natives only for a supply of liquor. Rec'd 117 lbs Venison from Natives"

June 5
" Tuesday Gale continuing with rain till noon afterwards more moderate breezes NE Cloudy uncomfortable Cold Weather
Men as Yesterday - The Home Gaurd Natives of Sunday paid their debts. they had a Quantity of fine Martin Skins - but not one amongst the other Indians who came in at the same time -
Rec'd one Deer from the Hedge Wt 117 lbs"

June 6
" Wednesday Breezes NE Cold & Cloudy till 9 AM Afterwards light Airs Ely Clear & temporate
Tradesmen & others who are in health variously employed. had the Lime Kiln drawn, Yard Cleaned & Room floor of flanker finished & other necefsary duties. Natives too inebriated to set off except two families of home Gaurds
Many White Whales drove up the River with the Tide & return on its Ebb
Five Men under Mr Robinsons care"

June 7
" Thursday Variable Breezes from E to SW till 3 PM fine & clear - Afterwards NE Cloudy & Cold much Rain last Night -
Four families of Natives set off early this Morning & four Do. afsisted acrofs the River with our Boats in the Afternoon
Men as Yesterday"

June 8
" Friday Much Rain last night, Day fine & Clear, in the Evening Rain variable breezes almost ro'd the Compafs - Men & sick as before
Smoaked & finished Trade with the Bungee Natives &c of Wednesday they brot a good afsortment of Furrs. Two of them are known by Charles Isham to be Captains in the Canadians Service one of whom I promised to make a leader on his bringing his Young Men to this Factory - presented him a Calamet & flag for that purpose. I wish & indeed hope to draw the Natives from the Pedlars Service - who have a house irrected within a few days Journey from us in the middle Track between Churchill & this Place which intercepts the principle part of the Indians from visiting the Hon'ble Companies Settlements on this Quarter of the Bay -"

June 9
" Saturday Breezes NE Early in the Morning Rain afterwards fine & Clear -
Men as before variously Engaged - Packed this Morning 30 Bundles ["2400" written in the margin] of Parchment Beaver. it gives me much pleasure to find the Trade is considerably Encreased & an additional pleasure to see the Natives visit the Factory with Cheerfulnefs & when they leave appear satisfied & Contented -
Seven Canoes of Northern Indians & four of Home Gaurds set off, & three Canoes arrived with a small Quantity of Venison which they Traded Wt 103 lbs"

June 10
" Sunday Breezes NE & variable PM NNW Clear Cold Weather -
All the Bungees & 4 families of North River Natives set off in 15 Canoes - Home Gaurds finished Trade. some of them took up small Debts to Hunt for Deer. In the afternoon sent 12 Men to the Woods in two Boats to prepare Rafts for Timber"

June 11
" Monday Variable breezes from NE to E Clear Cold Weather
Smith & Armourer mending Indians Guns. Bricklayer & Afsistants underpinning New Shops. all the rest at the House afsisting in packing Furrs
Remainder of Home Gaurds took up debts & in the Afternoon the Whole Body set off in Twenty four Canoes - Only three Old Natives & a few Women & Children remain on the plantation
Rec'd a Buck Deer from the Hedge Wt 130 lbs & bought 1 Beaver Wt 12 lbs -"

June 12
" Tuesday A Stiff breeze Variable from NE to E very Cold Cloudy Weather
Early this Morning Six Men came from the Woods with two large Rafts of Timber & plank. All hands engaged moving the same from Water to Building - Had the Trading Room & Warehouse Cleaned & put in order - Sent the Men back to the Woods -"

June 13
" Wednesday Breezes variable from E to SSE excefsive Cold for the Season of the Year - A Severe frost last Night
Tradesmen & Afsistants at their respective Occupations except the Sawyer who is repairing the Long Boat -
Three Under Mr Robinsons Care - 12 at the Woods. Rec'd 19 lbs Fish"

June 14
" Thursday Breezes variable from E to N Cloudy Cold Weather with Rain & Sleet
Men & sick as Yesterday - much Ice in the Offing"

June 15
" Friday AM A Brisk Gale Ely Cloudy Cold Weather with much Rain - PM more moderate
Men engaged the first part of the Day in the House & Shops - Afterw'ds as Yesterday"

June 16
" Saturday Stiff breeze Ely Cloudy Cold Weather with Rain
All hands variously engaged - In the Afternoon Henry Garrock & Men came from the Woods with 8 Rafts of Timber Plank & Slats - those were secured it being too bad Weather to remove any this Day - Three Men under Mr Robinsons Care -"

June 17
" Sunday Stiff Breeze variable from E to N very Cold & Cloudy with Rain, Hail, Sleet & Snow -
Much heavy Ice drove up the River with last nights Tide and left on the Shore - Unable to perform Divine Service being almost blind -"

June 18
" Monday a fresh Gale Nly very uncomfortable Cold Cloudy Weather with Rain Snow & Sleet -
Notwithstanding the badnefs of the Weather Obliged to employ all Hands (sick excepted) to remove Timber &c &c from the River, being Apprehinsive of its drifting from the Rafts "

June 19
" Tuesday Wind & Weather as Yesterday
Men variously employed in House, Shops & pack'g Tobacco for Inland Trade. In the Afternoon a Bungee Native arrived with a few Deer Skins Dried Meat &c &c
Rec'd 66 lbs Dried Venison 4 Tongues & 31 lbs Fatt"

June 20
" Wednesday Light Airs Variable NNW to W till 9 AM afterwards round the Compafs fine Warm Weather
Musketoes Numerous & Troublesome. Much heavy Ice drove up the River - & a large close body extended from the North River to the Eastward & far out to sea filling up the Mouth of the Channel as far as the Battery House forming a High Ridge - this separated & part went out to Sea with the Tide leaving large Quantities along Shore
Tradesmen who are in health at their respective Occupations. Labourers variously employed packing Inland Tobacco - It Greives me to see the heavy lofs that will be on the Brazile - the Quantity on hand at this place is great - half of the Rolls already opened is not fit to be offered to an Indian. they have long complained of its badnefs & if continued to be served them would I am afraid be prejudacial to YF Trade - this Occaisioned? as mentioned the 4th Sept. last for part nearly half thro' each Roll that was emerged & lay in Water is intirely Rotten, & the other part good & fine Tobacco - I have collected out the best & packed it for Inland Trade. the Remainder is packed in Casks for Mr Tomisons inspection
The Bungee Natives of Yesterday set off - & in the Evening a Musqua Ratt River Leader & three Men Arrived in two Canoes - he acquainted me Nine other Natives were left on the Back of this Island with their Furrs, & requested I would sent some Englishmen to conduct them to the factory in the Morning -
[Written in the margin " Two Natives came in from this Gang on the 2 Sept. Last"]
" These are Strangers, prevailed on by part of my home Gaurds to visit this place - This Man is the Canadians Chief Leader - his Gang which is Numerous is the support of the two Houses, one Errected on the Sweet Herb Lake & that on the Head of Churchill River - His Colours wh'h he hoisted prior to his coming to the Factory, his Cloathing &c - denote they are not of the Hon'ble Company -"

June 21
" Thursday Light Airs variable from S to SW - Clear till noon afterwards cloudy with Rain and variable Breezes alround the Compafs
Early this morning sent Eleven Men to the back of this Island for the Furs as mentioned Yesterday they returned about Noon well Loaded, also nine Indian Men and their families (four are home Guards the rest Strangers) - The Severity of the Weather last Winter, hath proved fatal to many who have large Debts - the want of provisions amongst the Natives has been general from all quarters - their accounts are truly Melancholy - Parents have been compelled thro' piercing necefsity of devouring their own offspring. Tradesmen & others (sick excepted) variously Employed"

June 22
" Friday variable Breezes from NE to E fine Clear Weather
Tradesmen as yesterday Labourers variously Employed Collecting Lime Stones, Diging in the Garden &c &c - sent Three Men in a boat to try for fish no luck. The few home Guards of yesterday paid their Debt, and in the afternoon two arrived from the Eastward with a small quantity of Dryed Venison &c - they were obliged to come to the factory on account of one of their Guns bursting, which they had from this place about a fortnight ago
Large Body of Ice drove up the River with the Tide, and left our Shores loaded with it
Rec'd 149 lbs Dryed & 22 lbs Green Venison and 8 Tongues"

June 23
" Saturday - A Brisk Gale Nly part Clear and part Cloudy and Cold
Tradesmen as before, Labourers breaking Stones for Lime
The Native Strangers of Wednesday and Thursday Traded, they brought a large afsortment of Prime Furrs - in order to continue the Leader and friends to Trade at this factory, I have exceeded in my usual presents - Smoaked with him and followers - it gives me pleasure they appear satisfied with the treatment they receive at YF - he delivered up his Canadian flag and took one of ours in lieu"

June 24
" Sunday A Brisk Gale Nly & variable to NW part Clear & part Cloudy Cold weather with Rain.
Blowing too strong for the Musqua Ratt River Natives to set off - Engaged in the Trading Room the greatest part of this day"

June 25
" Monday Stiff Breeze Nly Cloudy Cold Weather with Rain
Tradesmen & afsistants at their respective occupations - Labourers variously engaged afsisting in Packing Furrs - setting Lime Kiln &c &c - Too bad Wind for Natives to set off - Except two home gaurds who came in last friday - and in the Evening two Canoes arrived from the Eastward with venison &c
Rec'd 112 lbs Green Venison, 157 lbs Dried Do., 20 Tongues & 16 lbs Fatt"

June 26
" Tuesday A strong Gale Nly with a continual heavy Rain
All hands variously engaged in House & Shops -"

June 27
" Wednesday Breezes Nly Clear Cold Weather
All hands as on Monday. had the yard & plantation cleand. The Natives of the 25th set off as did the few home Gaurds of the 21st who took up small Debts to hunt for Deer - One Canoe of Indians arrived with venison, which they traded & left the Factory immediately. The Musqua Ratt River Leader taken Ill & is under Mr Robinsons care
Rec'd 200 lbs G Venison 15 lbs Dried Do. & 10 Tongues"

June 28
" Thursday light Airs & gentle breezes variable Nly -
Tradesmen as Yesterday - Labourers afsisting making drain in yard - securing the Bank of the River &c -
The Musqua Ratt River Natives set off early this Morning."

June 29
" Friday Light Airs & gentle breezes N to E AM - PM a brisk Gale N by E with a thick fog
Tradesmen as before. Labourers cutting down the wood around Factory & removing the Brush &c to the Banks Edge for their security. sent three Men in a Boat for the Carcafs of a Whale lying on the Opposite Shore. one Canoe of Natives came from the Eastward with Venison &c, which they Traded & set off immediately
Received 47 lbs Dried Venison 60 lbs Beat meat & pemicon & 9 lbs Fatt "

June 30
" Saturday A Strong Gale Ely very cold Cloudy Weather. PM a continual heavy Rain.
Tradesmen as before. Had the Warehouse cleaned ready to receive Furrs from Inland. And about Noon Mr Tomison forty seven English & one Canadian (who Mr T engaged Inland) afsisted by 15 Natives - Arrived in 21 Large & 2 small Canoes, with a trade of upwards of 12,500 M. Br. thank God all well - at the same time two Bungee families came in to trade - part of their family afsisted the Englishmen from Inland"

July 1 1787
" Sunday A Brisk Gale NE cloudy cold weather with Rain"

July 2
" Monday A Stiff breeze Eastly Cold Weather with a continual heavy rain - PM a brisk Gale -
Too bad Weather to do businefs without Doors. began filling Cags? with Brandy for Inland. and doing other Duties for that Trade. Many of the Men who came with Mr Tomison are lame & under Mr Robinsons care, we are apprehensive Salt provisions will injure them & prevent their return fresh being very scarce had a Bullock killed Wt. 680 lbs - Traded with the Natives of Saturday"

July 3
" Tuesday Wind & Weather nearly as Yesterday very uncomfortable & Cold
In the Evening twelve Canoes of Natives Arrived part of them with Furrs for Mr Tomison - the others are three Chiefs with Furrs from the Swan River Tribe - All Hands engaged on Inland duties - I cannot help mentioning that the exhorbitant demand of Wages of Your Honors Servants (whose Contracts expire this year) will if not timely prevented be productive of great Evils - Mr Tomison is in want of many Men to return with him to convey a large Quantity of Goods wanted Inland & we have but few who are capable at this place - This Circumstance the others take advantage of & positively refuse returning unlefs their demands are complied with which disturbs us much and almost puts a stop to businefs"

July 4
" Wednesday Breezes variable from N to E part clear & part cloudy
All hands engaged on Inland duties, packed a few bundles of Furrs - Much Ice drove up the River, A large body extends acrofs the Mouth & far out in the Offing"

July 5
" Thursday Variable breezes from N to E clear fine weather
All Hands as Yesterday. Much Ice in sight"

July 6
" Friday Stiff breezes early part of the Day NE cloudy Weather. Middle a thick fog with a strong Gale. latter part more Moderate & clear - Raw Cold the whole day
All hands as Yesterday - Early this Morning a few Natives arrived from the Eastward with dried Meat &c &c which they traded but it blows too strong for them to set off
Rec'd 434 lbs Dried Venison 114 lbs Fatt 21 lbs beat Meat & 48 Tongues"

July 7
" Saturday Breezes NE at times blowing Strong at others Mild. part clear & part cloudy with rain -
Finish'd packing Inland Furrs of last years Trade, all the Men at the factory engaged bringing home Venison caught in the Deer hedge & killed by Natives - In the Evening the Natives of Yesterday set off
Rec'd 2180 lbs of Venison & 22 Tongues"

July 8
" Sunday Variable breezes fine clear Weather
Engaged in Warehouse & Trading Room the whole day. Sent a few Men to fetch home Deer killed Yesterday. Two Canoes of Bungee Natives Arrived
Rec'd 630 lbs Green venison & 7 Tongues"

July 9
" Monday variable breezes from N to WSW fine Weather
All hands engaged on Inland Affairs, except two Men who are boning and salting Venison. Smoaked & traded with the 3 Swan River Leaders who arrived the 3rd they say they were directed? by the rest of their tribe to come down to York as an Invitation for some Englishmen to visit their Country with Trading Goods, they say the Canadians are amongst them - whose impositions are great but are determined not to put up with longer. they earnestly solicited some Men to return with them, we should have with their request, but want of hands to man Canoes & not having sufficient afsortment of Trading Goods obliged us to relinquish it for this Season - Two Canoes of Natives arrived from the Eastward & one from the North River with dried Venison & Ruhiagon - which they Traded
Rec'd 145 lbs of Dried & Beat Meat"

July 10
" Tuesday Variable Breezes AM fine clear Weather - PM much Rain Wind NE by E
All hands as before. Traded with the Bungee Natives of Sunday - they paid large debts they owed at Severn amounting to 90 Beavr an evident proof they are not displeased? with the treatment they receive at York - They visited me early in the spring & brought a good afsortment of Furrs with them. at the same time told me they formerly belonged to this place but were forced from it by bad treatment
The Natives from the Eastward set off"

July 11
" Wednesday Light Airs & gentle breezes Nly AM - Variable almost round the Compafs PM fine warm Weather. Muskeatoes troublesome
All hands as before getting things in readinefs to send off a few Canoes Inland before the main body - Many of the Men who came down are lame & uncapable to return - & others refusing unlefs a heavy advance of Wages (which cannot be agreed to by us) almost stops businefs
Sent off a few Natives to kill Deer and in the afternoon two Canoes of North River Natives arrived appearantly well gooded - they were sent in by others who visited me this spring - & have not been at this place since the fall of 83
Rec'd 672 lbs Green Venison & 5 Tongues"

July 12
" Thursday Wind and Weather as Yesterday -
All hands as before - traded with the Natives of yesterday and the 3 Swan River Leaders mentioned on Monday set off - they are belonging to a large tribe called Coninethto? I made each a present of a handsome Calamet & other things - and as Men cannot be spared to send with them - they promised to come down next spring with a large party of their Men well loaded with Furrs"

July 13
" Friday AM a fresh Gale WSW fine clear Weather. PM light Airs Sly very Sultry. Muskeatoes Troublesome. All Hands variously engaged on Inland Duties - finished packng of Furrs from Inland (as after package) except the Cargo of one Canoe that is not yet Arrived - An Indian was intrusted with the care of about 150 MB of skins with other Natives but staid a few days Journey from the Factory to see his relations
Eighteen Englishmen got ready their Canoes Received Provisions &c to set off tomorrow with Trading Goods for Cumberland House as did 11 Canoes of Natives. I cannot help taking Notice that the Cheese sent out last Year is so bad as not fit for human eating - being intirely Rotten - part of the Firkins of Butter are equally bad - others Fine & Good - Mr Tomison examined the Whole & wished me to send them home. the Men refused giving it carriage Inland - they took a few of the best Cheese & collected the finest butter to take with them -
A few families came from the Eastward with Deer Skins Dried Venison &c"

July 14
" Saturday Wind variable early in the Morning moderate Mild Weather. Afterwards a Brisk Gale NE very Cold & Cloudy - PM Rain
Early this Morning Eighteen Englishmen set off in 6 large Canoes with Trading Goods for the Inland Settlements. the Natives were not ready to set off per? the Morning Tide. The Weather proved too bad for them in the Afternoon -"

July 15
" Sunday A Strong Gale NE clear Weather. engaged the greatest part of the day on Inland businefs -
Blowing too strong for the Natives to set off -"

July 16
" Monday Light Airs & gentle breezes - Variable from N to E fine clear Weather
Eleven Canoes of Natives set off with 43 Bundles of Trading Goods for the Inland Settlements. All Hands Engaged on Inland duties - Twenty one Englishmen preparing to set off tomorrow
Many of your Honors Servants from Inland being in want of Loaf Sugar & having not sufficient to supply them caused much murmuring - Opened a Cask belonging to Capt. John Richards (Containing 24 Small Loaves) they have laid in the Factory ever since the year 1785, the same were weighed in the presence of Mr Tomison & self but they did not answer the weight specified on each Loaf. A certificate from those who afsisted will be enclosed in the Packet"

July 17
" Tuesday A Steady Breeze AM fine pleasant Weather. PM variable all round the Compafs with Rain and thunder very sultry & muskeatoes troublesome -
Twenty one Englishmen set off in seven Canoes the remaining few for Inland preparing to leave the Factory to morrow. All hands variously engaged for that purpose. Mr Tomison examined the Brazil Tobacco as mentiopned in my Journal 20th Ult. he is of the opinion that the Offering such to the Natives will be prejudicial to the Trade - therefore Condemed the Whole Wt. 837 lbs. Eleven Rolls are yet uncovered as they are in a safe place & remain ? Unexamined but am apprehensive a great lofs will be on each equal to those before opened -
Four Natives came in from the Eastward with Dried Venison &c which they traded & set off directly
Rec'd 186 lbs Dried Venison &c 30 lbs Fatt"

July 18
" Wednesday an Easy breeze NE by E fine Weather
About 10 AM Mr Tomison & 12 Englishmen accompanied by 8 Natives in 5 large & 1 small Canoe left the Factory. Saluted them at parting with 13 Guns & 3 Cheers. the Amount of trading Goods taken 12,600 53/60 MB. the Number of Servants on the Inland Establishments are 66 including Mr Tomison - we were only able to send eight young lads this season. Six of those who came down with Mr Tomison are left at the Factory. part under Mr Robinsons care & others who intend for England on next Ship, Our Number at the Factory Thirty four Officers & Boys included which is two lefs than before Mr Tomisons Arrival - greatest part unfit for laborious Duties - It gives me pleasure I was so fortunate as to procure sufficient fresh provisions for the Servants from Inland during their stay at the Factory - & deliver them a sufficient supply of Dried Venison to last them great part of their Journey back
The Northern Natives who finished Trade on Monday set off - Engaged two to go with a Packet to Churchill -"

July 19
" Thursday Light Airs almost round the Compafs AM with Showers of Rain, Cloudy & Sultry, Muskeatoes troublesome, PM breezes NE -
All hands variously engaged on necefsary duties, Cleaning Plantation, Warehouses &c &c began pulling down the Chiefs Cook Room &c - Prepared & closed the packet for Churchill which I hope to send off tomorrow -
Trusted a few Natives to hunt for Deer -"

July 20
" Friday Breezes NE with Rain AM - PM blow'g strong fine & Clear -
All hands as yesterday - sent off two Natives with a packet to Churchill - Three Bungee Natives set off to hunt Deer, saw a smoak acrofs the River sent four Men in a Boat who returned in the Evening with an Indian & family & a Quantity of Dried Venison &c - agreed him to go with a packet to Severn - prepared Letters & closed the same to send off tomorrow"

July 21
" Saturday Variable breezes SE to NE Clear Weather very Warm - Muskeatoes & Large flies troublesome -
All hands variously engaged Packing Furrs and other necefsary duties - Early this Morning sent off an Indian & his wife with a packet to Severn. Many Articles of Trading Goods wanted Inland (yet? not indented? for to come out per? Ship) which I hope to send up in the fall by some Canoe men who are left at this Factory lame is the reason of my sending a Packet at this Season of the Year - Trusted three North River Natives their Winters Debt - & two others to hunt for Deer who set off with their families in the Afternoon
Rec'd 415? lbs Dried Venison 10 lbs Fatt &c"

July 22
" Sunday Light breezes NE - AM - and a strong Gale E - PM Clear Weather -
Killed a Young buck Deer in the River - In the Afternoon saw a Smoak on the Eastern Shore - it blowed too strong to put off a Boat - hoisted the Colours & lowered them soon after which was the signal agreed on that it was Dangerous to crofs - In the Evening it became almost Calm - Six Natives Arrived with Dried Venison
Rec'd 56 lbs Green Venison"

July 23
" Monday Breezes SE by E Clear Weather. The Natives of last night traded and went away - Tradesmen at their respective Occupations. the few Labourers & others variously employed, Sick and lame under Mr Robinsons Care -
Rec'd 563 lbs Dried Venison & Beat Meat 42 lbs Fatt & 73 lbs Pemicon"

July 24
" Tuesday Breezes Ely Clear Warm Weather, Muskeatoes & large flies Troublesome
Sent off ten Men to the Woods. the rest as Yesterday. Two Natives came in from the North River with a few Deer Skins paid their Debts - and went away immediately - Much Ice in sight
Rec'd 5 Ducks "

July 25
" Wednesday Gentle Breezes variable from S to E till Noon afterwards NE & in the Evening Sly very Sultry - Muskeatoes & large flies so troublesome as to prevent duty - Much Ice drove in the Mouth of this River - All Hands as Yesterday. finished Covering top of flanker as we had not lead to compleat it obliged to make use of old Canvas (not fit for packing up Goods in) well Tarr'd & sand rubbed, which I hope will Answer until the Lead is landed on the Arrival of the Ship
Rec'd 8 Ducks &c"

July 26
" Thursday light Airs & gentle breezes variable from S to E very Sultry -
Muskeatoes & large flies (called here Bull Dogs) more thick than yesterday & exceedingly troublesome. Early this Morning saw a Smoak on the Eastern Shore Sent a man in a Coble? & Canoe (for I have not boat at home) acrofs the river who made two trips with Women & Children at the same time 18 Canoes of Natives Arrived with Deer Skins &c &c Paid their Debts & Traded. Sent four Men to cut up the Carcafs of a Whale laying at the point of Marsh the rest as Yesterday - In the Evening the Natives had their Great Hunting Feast & Dance - "

July 27
" Friday Breezes Sly very Sultry AM PM more Moderate - In the Evening much Thunder
The Heat so intense this Morning little businefs was done. Musketoes & large flies so numerous & troublesome as to prevent the necefsary duties being executed - Men variously engaged. packed the Deer Skins brot in Yesterday. and boiled the Whale Blubber which produced a Hhd of Oil - a fortunate circumstance to us as our Distrefs was great last Winter for want of this Article
Matthem Barrow hath again shewn symptoms of Insanity obliged to appoint a person to take care of him, tho' at present he is harmlefs, yet his actions convinces a great disordered mind"

July 28
" Saturday Breezes Sly Warm Weather flies very troublesome
All hands variously engaged - Had the Long Boat Launched (into the River) and Rigged - Five Men came from the Woods with 6 Floats of Fire Wood - they were unable to reach the Factory this day on Acc't of the Shoals on which they remained one Tide - sent afsistance and got them abrest the House about Midnight - A large smoak seen W by S of the Factory which I suppose to proceed from Woods on fire -
Finished Trade with the Natives of Thursday - Rec'd 157 lbs Dried Venison 177 lbs Beat Meat & Pimmecon 10 lbs Fatt & 15 Tongues"

July 29
" Sunday Variable Breezes very sultry AM PM blow'g strong Sly - Thunder in the Evening - flies disagreeably Troublesome as to prevent the necefsary Duties being forwarded "

July 30
" Monday variable breezes from S to W & W by N part clear & part cloudy. PM Thunder Lightning & Rain & Flies intolerable
Sent the Men of Saturday to the Woods, Carpenters making Beacons, Bricklayer & Afsistant Building Oven - Sailor getting ready to set Buoys, the remaining few, with the Natives carrying firewood from the River (except Sick & Lame who are under Mr Robinsons Care)"

July 31
" Tuesday Light Airs & Gentle breezes variable Sultry weather. Flies almost insupportable?
All the Men came from the Woods with 5 Rafts of Firewood - Carpenters began putting down Launch. Bricklayer as before. Got the Beacon for 5 fathom Hole Sand on board the Long Boat & the Buoys ready to set ? five? Men under Mr Robinsons Care - "

Aug. 1 1787
" Wednesday breezes variable almost round the Compafs. AM sultry, flies very troublesome - PM more moderate & pleasant
Had five fathom Hole Beacon set & Buoys Laid. The Launch and Steps? finished and the firewood carried from River to the Pile - Began taking Stock"

Aug. 2
" Thursday variable Breezes almost round the Compafs part clear & part cloudy -
The Double headed Beacon set. Tradesmen looking over their Stores & doing other necefsary duties, Began making up our Books, find the Trade at this place is more than double last Year, & what gives me pleasure a prospect of increasing - Fresh Provisions is now become scarce No game of any sort stirring - "

Aug. 3
" Friday Variable breezes - hazy Weather, Thunder heard tho at a distance - at times sultry
Tradesmen variously employed - Began overhauling Provisions & Stores -"

Aug. 4
" Saturday Wind variable Sly & SE Calm Breezes Blowing Strong alternately - Part clear and part Cloudy - & at times sultry Warm -
Men employed as yesterday, took several Natives to set Nets and draw the Sean, no fish -
Killed a small Fawn Wt 40 lbs -"

Aug. 5
" Sunday Breezes Variable from S to SE part clear & part cloudy - Much Thunder PM and Nly with Rain - in the Evening blowing strong
Sent off several Indians to hunt for deer, in the afternoon the Two Indians I sent with a Packet to Churchill the 20th Ult. Arrived, and in the Evening two Bungees came in with Deer Skins & Green Meat Wt 241 lbs"

Aug. 6
" Monday A Strong Gale NE all last night and this day with a continued heavy rain. Cold Cloudy Weather
All hands engaged Caulking new building. the Weather too bad to work without doors - Our Long Boat broke two Cables as she rode at Anchor abreast the Factory"

Aug. 7
" Tuesday Gale continued with heavy Rain & Sleet
All hands variously engaged Securing Long Boat as? She broke third Cable last night, got her into the Creek - the remainder of the Day the Men as yesterday"

Aug. 8
" Wednesday Moderate Breezes from E to N & NE Clear Cold Weather. All hands variously Engaged. Cleaned out yard, Shops, & House, which have been an entire swamp with the late heavy Rain. The Bungee Natives of the 6th set off
Rec'd 11 Ducks"

Aug. 9
" Thursday Part Calm and part light Airs Ely clear warm Weather - AM thick & Hazzy -
Sent off several Indians to hunt for Deer, two of those I sent off on Sunday returned unsuccefsful - Six Men engaged Dragging the River for Anchor lost by? Long Boat Cable breaking, the rest variously engaged - In the Evening four families of Natives came in with Deer Skins &c - paid their Debt & Traded - Rec'd 60 lbs Dried Venison 6 lbs Fatt 6 Ducks"

Aug. 10
" Friday Variable Breezes from N to W by S part clear and part cloudy - Abt Noon blowing fresh with Rain - PM more clear with Wind NE -
All Hands variously engaged - Three Canoes of Bungees four of North River - & three Musqua Ratt River Indians arrived part Loaded with Furrs & Deers Skins cheifly Strangers brot in by others who visited me early in the Season -
Rec'd Beavers flesh 15 lbs 30 Pemicon & Fatt & 4 Geese - "

Aug. 11
" Saturday Breezes NE part clear & part cloudy with Rain -
Sent three Men early with two Indians to the back of this Island for Skins &c left by Strangers who arrived Yesterday - The rest of the Men variously engaged - Traded with part of the Natives - others too inebriated for Businefs. I have now Eight large Tents of Natives on the Plantation amongst these four different Tribes -
This Week the Cook Room, Oven &c built up, the Window Jams - Door &c of Flanker finished - also the sash frames got ready for fitting in, two Men hath been employed for this Week past, when Weather permitted, Collected Stones for Ship -
Rec'd 122 lbs Dried Venison & Moose flesh 25 lbs Fatt & 180 Tongues - "

Aug. 12
" Sunday Variable Winds from NE to N part clear & part cloudy thick Weather at times heavy Rain -
Engaged greatest part of the day with Natives who are Trading and taking Debt for Winters Hunt -"

Aug. 13
" Monday Wind NE by N at times blowing fresh at others Moderate breezes part clear part cloudy & hazzy -
The Bungees & Musqua Rat River Tribes set off - each one Strangers and altho' they brot but small Trade I presented them large presents - in order to draw them from the Canadians - with whom they have of late Traded all their Furrs - Each Leader promises to bring a number of Canoes next spring - All Hands variously engaged - Rec'd 4 Geese & 14 lbs Fish "

Aug. 14
" Tuesday A Stiff Breeze Nly Cloudy Cold Wet Weather
All Hands engaged preparing for reception of Sloop & Ship which are now Daily expected - A Native came in from the Musqua Ratt River Tribe who set off Yesterday - for a Flag - which he forgot to take with him. Trusted Several Natives
Rec'd 13 Geese & 12 Ducks "

Aug. 15
" Wednesday Blowing fresh Nly and variable to E Thick & hazzy much Ice appeared in sight -
Two Parties of N River Natives set off for their Winters Hunt - as did the person who came from the Musqua Rat River Chief Yesterday -
Rec'd 1 Goose 22 Ducks & 12 Plover "

Aug. 16
" Thursday Wind vaery variable alround the Compafs at times blowing fresh - at other times Calm hazzy & at times Sultry - at others Cold -
Much Ice drove into the Mouth of this Channel and a ledge extended acrofs from the North River far to the Eastward - which makes us have our fears for the safety of the Severn Sloop -
Sent Several Natives to the Eastward to try for Ducks &c several home Gaurds took up Debt for their Winters hunt. and a few set off, as they left their Canoes at the Back of this Island, were afsisted round the point of the Marsh with our Boats. In the Afternoon the Natives I sent off the 9th Inst. returned with the flesh of 14 Deer - All hands as before except three who are Salting Venison
Rec'd 1085 lbs Venison 2 Geese 46 Ducks & 9 Plover & 4 Tongues"

Aug. 17
" Friday Gentle breezes very variable, AM fine? Weather, PM blowing strong N & NE Cloudy and Cold. Towards Evening very thick with heavy Rain & Thunder
A remarkable high Tide this day, large pieces of Ice seen floating in the Offing - All hands as before except those who were Salting Venison, are breaking Lime Stones - Two Strangers came in with a few Skins which they traded & set off immediately - "

Aug. 18
" Saturday Variable Breezes AM fine & Clear PM Cloudy with Rain
All hands as before
All my Home gaurd Natives took up debt for their Winter Hunt, altho much distrefsed for many Articles of Trading Goods - My lofs in kettles will be great, am obliged to sell them four or five Beaver under value, on account of their being so heavy for their sizes - "

Aug. 19
" Sunday Variable breezes from E to N to SE fine & clear AM - PM heavy Rain - & in the Evening much thunder & Lightening -
Two Natives came in with a small Buck Deer which they Traded and set off immediately -
This Morning the Severn Sloop was seen in the Offing and by 2 PM came abreast the House, thank God all well at that Settlement - Engaged great part of this day with Natives
Rec'd 96 lbs Venison & 1 Tongue "

Aug. 20
" Monday Wind variable from N to NW at times moderate at others blowing strong with Rain AM - PM fine & pleasant
Carpenter and Afsistants preparing Cabbins in flanker. Smith at work Do. - Bricklayer setting Lime Kiln Taylors at work for Trade & Men. Cooper & Armourer at work for Severn - Two at pitsaw - Labourers variously employed Collecting Stones - Grinding Oatmeal &c &c - In the Afternoon Rec'd all the Bundles of Beaver &c from the Severn Sloop -
Twenty Canoes of home Gaurd Natives set off for their Winters Hunt
Received 4 lbs Fish"

Aug. 21
" Tuesday AM breezes NNW hazzy Weather, PM variable NE by N fine Clear Weather
All hands as yesterday - Sailors making Willow fonders? and dragging for Anchor which they found - delivered Mr Moore his instructions respecting the Signal on the Approach of the Company's Ship - gave a Cask of Pork that article being much wanted by the Men.
Two Natives came in with Deer Skins which they Traded and set off immediately"

Aug. 22
" Wednesday Breezes NE by N fine pleasant Weather
All hands as before except two who are hunting - Severn Sloop dropt down the River & Anchored in Five fathom hole - I have had five Netts set on this River nearly three Weeks & not caught 20 Fish they are so very scarce -
In the Evening an Old Native came from the Back of this Island & tells me Indians are on the North Shore of Nelson River - & have been waiting two days to be fetched over - which he supposes to be strangers without Canoes - by their making Fires & fireing Guns -
Received 8 Ducks & 2 lbs Fish - "

Aug. 23
" Thursday A Sharp frost last night Breezes NE by E fine clear Weather
Tradesmen as before. Labourers cutting of? Wood for the Ship to be ready on her arrival I have collected suff't stones for her, sent three Men & an Indian who arrived yesterday in one of the Inland Canoes to know the Occaision of the Fires acrofs the Nelson River - two of the Severn Sailors came on shore to repair their Boat"

Aug. 24
" Friday Stiff Breezes NE by N & N? East cloudy thick Cold Weather with Rain
Tradesmen as before - All the rest &c caulking Flanker except three Men who are acrofs Nelson River"

Aug. 25
" Saturday fresh breezes NE fine pleasant Weather -
Much Ice in sight a large Ledge extends acrofs from the Northward & as far to the Eastward as we can decern with our best glafses
About Noon the Men I sent acrofs Nelson River arrived, with two Indians, who delivered Letters from Churchill & your honors packet from England, brot by Capt. Tunstall who arrived at that Factory the 14th Inst.
All hands as before "

Aug. 26
" Sunday fresh pleasant Breezes NW by W clear Weather at times light Showers of Rain -
A Native came in with Deer Skins paid his debt, Traded & set off immediately. he begd that Englishmen might be sent to the back of this Island for several Bundles left with his Family & other Indians "

Aug. 27
" Monday Light Airs & Gentle Breezes NW fine Weather
Tradesmen at their respective occupations others variously engaged - sent five Men to the back of this Island for Skins who returned with 6 families of Indians they were obliged to leave 5 Bundles behind
This Morning the Severn Sloop made a signal of seeing a vefsel & soon after the Churchill & Company's Ship appeared in sight & before Noon came to an Anchor in five fathom hole - Sent the Long Boat to the Ship - In the Evening Captain Tunstall & Mr Hearne came to the Factory - The Factory & Ships Long Boat came up, the latter unloaded ready to drop down in the night Tide
In the Afternoon the Native arrived who had the charge of Mr Tomisons Furrs is mentioned in this Journal the 13th July - Two Bungees came to take debt, and two Canoes of Home Gaurds came in with the flesh of 6 Deer Wt 625 lbs -
Entered on your honors Books James Hall, Nicholas Spence, James Wildridge, James Linklater, Wm Duncan, John Halcro, James Isbister, William Hawkland, Robert Meal, Willm Miller, John Harper, Peter Cloriston, Magnus Garston & Henry Smith"

Aug. 28
" Tuesday Wind Variable pleasant fine Weather
All hands variously engaged. Unloaded the Factory Long Boat & Severn Sloop & they dropt down the River to the Ship. Sent 380 lbs Venison on board the Sloops & Ship - The Churchill Sloop came up several Natives came in with Deer Skins &c In the Evening the two long Boats came from the Ship
Rec'd 56 lbs Fatt & 100 Tongues "

Aug. 29
" Wednesday Variable pleasant Breezes, fine Weather
The Churchill Sloop & the two long Boats unloaded the latter dropt down the River to the Ship & in the Evening came to the Factory with Goods - all hands variously engaged "

Aug. 30
" Thursday Variable breezes all round the Compafs part clear part cloudy with Rain
All hands variously engaged - The Churchill Sloop took on board part of the homeward bound Cargo & dropt down the River to the Ship as did the two long Boats which were unloaded this Morning - Captain Tunstall went on board the Severn Sloop came to the Factory & unloaded part of her Cargo
Discharged from your honors Service John Sturgis Bricklayer
Traded with and trusted several Natives and five Canoes set off - In the afternoon a few came to the Factory with some Deer Skins &c
Rec'ed 68 lbs Dryed Moose flesh & 25 lbs fatt -"

Aug. 31
" Friday Variable Breezes almost round the Compafs cloudy and heavy rain
Unloaded the remainder of the Cargo of the Severn Sloop and put on board part of the homeward bound bundles of Furrs - Two Long boats unloaded & dropt down the River - The Churchill Sloop came up discharged from your honors Service Henry Garrock Pateroon - An Indian family set off - and late in the Evening 3 Natives came with furrs - Capt. Tunstall came to the Factory"

Sept. 1 1787
" Saturday Blowing fresh variable from NW to NW by N part clear & part cloudy with Rain -
The Two Long Boats came up & unloaded - as was the Churchill Sloop - The Severn dropt down to the Ship as did the Ships Long Boat -
Many Natives came in with Furrs "

Sept. 2
" Saturday A strong Gale WNW & NW by W Cloudy Weather
All hands variously engaged preparing Tent & packing Goods for Inland - I am sorry I was obliged to brake thro' your honors honors by engaging Edw'd Wishart. I was induced to it knowing his abilities as a good Canoe Builder and a steady Worthy Servant & the only one capable at this juncture to conduct a Canoe to the Settlements Inland - "

Sept. 3
" Monday A Brisk Gale NW by N part clear & part cloudy -
All hands variously engaged - Closed the Packet for Inland - discharged from your honors Service Wm Guthrie Carpenter, Robt Wilson Taylor, George Gunn Labourer - also Matthew Barrow, Willm Appleby Sloop Mate & Willm Goldsborough Shipwright is also discharged and George Foreman entered on our Books Sloopmasters Mate & John Harrison as Shipwright - Severn Sloop came up"

Sept. 4
" Tuesday Stiff breezes NW by N Clear Weather
Edw'd Wishart, Hugh Lisk, James Davey & John Harper set off with a Packet for Mr Tomison & with trading Goods for the Inland Settlements -
Entered on your Books Robert Tennent Sailor, Alex'r Flett Taylor, William Lutit, Hawkrow Smith, Robt Garton, James Murray & Peter Brafs Labourers also John Taylor Labourer for Severn and James Sutherland Sailor engaged by Capt. Tunstall to supply the room of Robt Pimm who is sent home being unfit to be continued longer in your honors service - Churchill Sloop & two long Boats came to the Factory - The Severn Sloop took in part of the Cargo consigned from that Settlement "

Sept. 5
" Wednesday Variable pleasant Breezes from SW to NW Clear fine Weather
All hands variously engaged - finished Trade with the Natives - Packed up Furrs &c and put them on board the Churchill Sloop - The Severn Sloop took on the remaining part of her Cargo "

Sept. 6
" Thursday Variable breezes part clear and part Cloudy PM rain
All hands variously engaged - An Indian & family came in with Dried Meat &c "

Sept. 7
" Friday Variable Breezes Cloudy Weather -
Sent Men in two Boats to draw the Cean & try for fish - Closed the Packet in the Afternoon & delivered it to Captain Joshua Tunstall -

Jos. Colen"

1M160 B.239/a/87

Home