1934

Jan. 1, 1934 –

Happy New Year ~

(Have decided to turn over a new leaf, so --) [Jan. 1, 1934 entry appears on the next page…]

- 1934 –

Wayne Milne – Senior picture 1934

January 1, 1934

Happy New Year

            Well, I have turned over a new leaf, as can be seen on the next page going backwards. Last night, or this morning as you will, I rang in the new year and shouted out the old year in the Parthenon theatre at exactly 12:00 o'clock, despite the fact that Mr. Ripley says the new year does not actually start until 5: P.M., for which statement he claims to have basic and conclusive proof.

            Got home about 2:30 A.M. and had to get up at 7: A.M. to peddle papers. Reached a new high today when I sold 18 extras, which netted me 46¢ clear profit and a show ticket. Saw "Dancing Lady" with Joan Crawford and Clark Gable playing the leads. Was not such a bad picture but the vaudeville lacked very little of being terrible, partially because of the unappreciative audience, consisting mostly of young "smart alecs" who thought they should furnish the entertainment.

            Bud, Collet [Larry] and I rode down the hills at the Hammond Incinerator and Bud got his face scratched when he went head-first over his handlebars on frozen sand.

            Devoy's came over and Joe and I got my little _____ [looks like erector] electric engine running, after which we played ping-pong until it was time for them to leave.

January 2, 1934

            Think perhaps I might carry out the above plan for date headings henceforth in my diary [started using red ink for the dates]. However, I will wait to make a positive decision until I assure myself that it looks right – Have to go get dinner.

            Took the Christmas tree down alone and mother helped me to take the other trimmings down. Following that, went skating at the Cozy Roller Rink with Junior for 5¢. Sure is a lot of fun. Went with Bud and Dona Jean to Calumet to see "Song of Songs" with Marlene Dietrich and to play scruno [or screeno?]. The picture was an excellent one with superb acting on the part of all actors. Scruno is an excellent game, resembling the old corn game and the game of Lotto. I lacked one number of having a complete row of 5 numbers and thus winning a prize, as did Bud also.

January 3, 1934

            Time certainly flies. In a few days will be going to school again. Took my $3.99 suede jacket back to Goldblatts and exchanged it for a $4.98 one of better quality. However, I sincerely regret that I did not buy a leather jacket, light tan, for $5.98. It would look much better on me I now think. I sure wish I were capable of making up my mind when buying wearing apparel.

            Have not been able to find a book review yet and time draws near when I shall need two of them for English. Finished general questions on "Tale of Two Cities" today – this morning.

Went skating, ice, this afternoon and at night. Had skates fixed where they were torn for 25¢ and also bought straps and buck-skin shoe strings for 38¢. Dad took my jacket back and exchanged it for the leather one I spoke of. I am certainly relieved and glad that this is done and I have the one I originally desired.

January 4, 1934

            It sure takes long to get accustomed to writing 1934 instead of 1933. I just now had to erase two 1933 and put in the 4.

            Went over to Hester's for dinner and sure stuffed myself with creamy mashed potatoes, sausage and gravy, and sauer kraut.

            Bud, Junior and I then went skating at Cozy Roller Rink. I sure think it's fun in spite of the fact that I have blisters on the bottoms of my feet and am all bruised from a "nasty" spill. Two girls cut me off and tripped me, causing me to fall in front of them and thus causing one of them to go head-over-heels over me.

            Received some College Literature from Antioch College, Yellow Springs, Ohio and just finished perusing it. To me, it presents a very good modern college with plenty of opportunities to an alert and intelligent student, along all possible lines of research.

January 5, 1934

            Collected $9.57 this morning in miserable, rainy weather. A strong wind blows from the south and is not warm by any means. Stayed home the rest of the day and read "Collier's" and "The Carolinian" by Sabatini. It begins to get interesting and I know I shall enjoy it.

            Read in morning and evening papers where the government shall have a national deficit of 9 billion dollars by 1935. Where will the future generations of America get the money to make this up? Where again will the government get so much ready cash, without overtaxing the people? The situation seems to be getting worse rather than better. Let us hope for everybody's sake that it soon clears up.

            Had intended to go to show but it is too rainy and dreary so I have decided to stay home and read "The Carolinian."

January 6, 1934

            Finished collecting and turned in money as usual today and received two show tickets. Ate a barbecue and drank a "mug" of root beer down town with Bud and Alvin Rutz.

            Went roller skating this afternoon about fifteen to four to five o'clock. Joe was there also. Skated with Margaret Murphy when she asked me.

            Bud, Collet, Dona Jean, and I saw "Myrt and Marge" at the Paramount tonight. The picture was not so good in my estimation, and I fear it will tend to spoil their programs, since I will not be able to use my own imagination so vividly. However, two or three of the acts, vaudeville, were fairly good. One was a trapeze act and another was a marionette act, in which lighted marionettes of all sizes and shapes danced on a pitch-black stage. The best act however was the hilly-billy act. Two old people, their son, his cousin, and the cousin's little brother were the actors. The old folks from the hills of Kentucky gave a riotous attempt of acrobats. The man, however, was unable to lift the lady and much mirth was wrought by his vain attempt to do so. The cousin, Chester, was one of the best of the group. His large-framed body with such a longish face was enough to entertain you alone without his hilarious actions due to his bashfulness and embarrassment. Such an act of vaudeville is seldom seen but always remembered, once seen.

January 7, 1934 (Sunday)

            Went to Sunday School and church this morning. Rev. Jones preached an excellent sermon on the comparison of the Roman Catholic and the Protestant Churches. He brought out the fact that the Protestant Churches believed in idealism rather than ritualism, which the latter was believed by the Catholic Churches. Two sweet babies were also baptized during services.

            Had an excellent, enticing dinner of chicken, - which had a tendency to leave the bone without your help – gravy, chicken, of course, creamy mashed potatoes, sugared or candied sweet potatoes, dressing, and delicious muffins with nuts flavoring the light cake.

            Bud and I ate a meager supper at the Red Rooster, consisting of 25¢ hamburgers and a glass of water a piece. On the way home we stopped in at the Igloo and I had my first Hot Fudge Sundae. It certainly was delicious. Three dippers of vanilla ice cream blanketed by steaming hot fudge and all bedecked with crunched or mashed nuts, all for a dime.

            Stayed home and read "The Carolinian" alone, since mother, dad, and Dona Jean went to hear the Georgia Jubilee at church. Went to bed at 8:20. School tomorrow. Ho-Hum.

January 8, 1934

            School again! And did we ever get it right away. Assignments were piled on me galore, but I have managed to finish them. Every one of our teachers attempted to impress upon our benumbed minds the fact that in two short weeks the final exams would quite unwelcomed come. I sure do hate them because of the worry they cause, more than the work it means. Went downtown after school and bought a few things for a cabinet shower mother is attending tonight. Got a set of bookends representing sail-ships for 30¢, a tie or collar pin, and a flagelet [small flute]. My room is much more cheerful now and if I do say so myself, is a very good-looking, comfy room. I am glad that I was able to fix it up with so little materials at hand.

January 9, 1934

            Was fortunate enough to get a 93 in English test on third book of "A Tale of Two Cities." I hope that score ranks an "A" grade, for I certainly need it. Stayed after school to work out a proposition in Geom. tonight. Albert and Betty were there also to help.

            Went to Sea Scout Meeting this evening. Had a good time drilling and listening to Bill Hutton's talk on the "lead" line and anchor & chain. Gordon Randall told of his trip on Lake Michigan in a 3 masted sloop or ship. Bill & Bud Johnson told of the most exciting time they and 5 others – called the "Dirty Seven," upset the Pulaski at Cedar Lake. I can hardly wait until I shall be qualified to take the helm of a sailing vessel, the only vessel which is alive and possesses a soul.

January 10, 1934

            Went to Jr. Hi-Y meeting this evening. Initiated three new members, Jimmy Nelson, Vernon Shropshire and Beryl Morris. Discussed some business first concerning future devotional services and parties. Had three hot dogs and a bottle and half of pop before formal instruction & before going home.

            After the meeting I went with Beryl to watch the closing of the swimming meet between Hammond High & Michigan City. Carl Jacobson almost beat Messner but in the last 20 yards, Messner put on a sudden burst of "arm-flinging" and tied him. However, Hammond won the meet, 44 to 23.

January 11, 1934

            Time draws near to the fatal finals and the end of one semester. Only one more semester left for me and I know nothing I can do will bring me to the point where I will not be easily forgotten by teachers and classmates. Would I had been picked for the National Honorary Society. No greater honor could I desire.

            Received an A+ in History Notebook on Indiana and an A on Physics Notebook. Had a B+ at first on the latter but Mr. Hayes gave me an A when I made two necessary corrections.

January 12, 1934

            Uncle Walter came up for a very short visit this evening about 4:30 P.M. He seems to think I have grown an awfully lot in a year. I sincerely hope he is right. [Uncle Walter was Lester's brother, child #5 of the 13 Milne children.]

            Went to Devoy's tonight and stayed till 11 P.M. Orv Brook was there in the early part of the evening and I had an enjoyable time listening to he and father talking over the "good old days."

            Surprise of Surprises! Took the car alone and went after Ice Cream at the Igloo. Was certainly tickled to be able to do so and I certainly believe I did pretty well. Got 2 quarts of ice-cream for 41¢ because of a one cent sale at the Igloo.

January 13, 1934

            Did not get out of the News Agency until 1:00 P.M. today. Certainly waited a long time. Bought a cheap pencil to match my pen at Grants.

            Spent the afternoon completing English and History notebooks. Certainly was glad to get them off my mind. I have to finish "The Carolinian" and write a book revue on it by Wednesday. Should also write a term paper for History by next Friday.

January 14, 1934

            Went to Sunday School and church this morning. Dad was installed as a Sunday School officer, namely, second assistant superintendent and also assistant to Clark, head of the Intermediate Dept.

            Bud, Collet, and I rode around on our bikes for awhile & they stopped in at the Igloo. We even got two hot fudge sundaes apiece, six in all, for a sum of 33¢. It sure looked funny to see all the dishes off ice cream on the one table and we three boys making way with them. We had a good time laughing at ourselves before and after the ice cream feast.

            Dona Jean and I stayed home tonight when Mother & Dad went to Aunt Orah's. I read over a hundred pages in "The Carolinian."

January 15, 1934

            Review week started today and I sure do need it. It seems to me that I have forgotten every thing I ever knew, and I never did know much about any subject, especially Physics.

            Finished "The Carolinian" tonight & wrote a book revue on it. It certainly was a good book. I had thought Sabatini to be a rather "dry" & uninteresting author, but I certainly must make apologies.

            Went over to Aunt Orah's for supper since mother was still over there from helping in the afternoon. Aunt Orah's bought 11 acres near Aunt Tola's.

January 16, 1934

            Had a good time listening to sea adventures aboard large 18-ft. sailing vessels on Cedar Lake tonight at Sea Scout meeting. Can hardly wait till I get a chance to go sailing on Cedar Lake.

January 17, 1934

            Had test in Physics today on heat. It certainly seemed to be a difficult test to me. Handed in book reports today in English.

January 18, 1934

            Saw "Little Women" at Parthenon tonight. If ever a picture was worth seeing, this one certainly was it. The show was made a glamorous success because of the book it represented, and because of superb acting on the part of all characters concerned. Katherine Hepburn, despite her almost homely and certainly manly appearance, characterized Jo very good. Beyond a doubt, she is one of the world's leading dramatizers.

            Would like to read the story over again after seeing the picture, for I am certain that I could enjoy it more since I would have a definite picture in my mind as to the traits of character & appearances of each and every one of the characters as portrayed by Louisa May Alcott.

January 19, 1934

            Finished extra credit problems for Geometry tonight and worked on term paper on Agriculture for History. Made two spherical rs with their polar rs on a red ball to illustrate how the spherical r may lie wholly within its polar r or the polar r may cut across the spherical r, in case one of its sides is greater than a quadrant. [the first 2 r symbols had an "s" in the center of the triangle. I couldn't find the symbol to use, so just put the "s" after the r.]

January 20, 1934

            Collected and received pay this morning as usual. Helped Bud and Bud and I helped Collet peddling evening papers.

            Dad got the wedding cake and it certainly is beautiful. The cake, made quite large in circumference by excessive frosting, is beautifully adorned with smooth yellow icing. Around the border are yellow and white alternating fruit trumpets of icing also. In fact, every article of adornment upon the cake is eatable and I doubt delectable. A basket of roses, so realistically woven with lavender shreds of things, makes the top of the cake look, indeed like a picture. Around the top, loops of dark yellow icing hang projecting over the side, like the frills of lace on a table cloth.

            Studied for exam in Geometry tonight after having a delicious supper of chili con carn at Mrs. Burke's. [My dad often mentioned their neighbor, "Tooty" Burke. She made her own beer and my grandma would often go to Tooty's for coffee, and sometimes to sample the beer.]

January 21, 1934

            What a beautiful day for a beautiful Golden Wedding Anniversary. Everything worked out just as had been hoped and prayed for, even the weather contributing a sunny, spring-like day. Such a group of happy people I have never before seen all at once.

            Grandma and granddad were certainly surprised; and happy. Why words can't express their happiness although their tears were proof enough. After living fifty years together and leaving behind their fine sons and daughters, any couple such as my grandparents deserve to be complimented and celebrated on their Golden Wedding Anniversary.

            In presenting their gifts, Dad made amends to the fact that Gold could not be given to them in the following manner: "We all thought that it would be nice to give you a gold piece on your Golden Wedding Day, but the government, as you know, would not allow us to do so. However, I sent a letter to President Roosevelt asking him if, for such a special occasion as this, he would not grant this group the privilege of giving gold to their father and mother. I received a letter from the President soon after and he said that he was very sorry, but he had looked up the county records and found that Peter Kesler was a staunch Republican – " he got no further in his narration for everyone suddenly realized it was a joke & ended his story with uproarious laughter lead for the most part by Peter Kesler, who is indeed a staunch Republican if there ever was one. [I should add here the story I heard many times of my great grandfather Peter Kesler, the staunch Republican. He went to a Democrat rally, got into an argument which led to his being punched in the eye so hard that his eye was literally knocked out of his head. He went to a doctor who was able to replace the eye, but that eye always drooped. Based on the photo below, it must have been his right eye.]

Peter B. Kesler & Mary E. (Fish) Kesler

Wayne's maternal grandparents

            Had a delightful time with Jimmy and Junior riding Sandy. I believe I rode him the fastest when I rode him bareback.

January 22, 1934

            Took Typing and Geometry exams this morning. Both were hard, especially the Geometry Exam. Have History Exam and English Exam tomorrow morning & afternoon.

            Tried in vain to snatch a little nap this afternoon so tried to study History for Exam tomorrow. Haven't studied English at all yet. Dad and Dona Jean went to Penny Carnival at church tonight.

January 23, 1934

            Well, two more done with, or, four down and one to go. Tomorrow I take my last exam, a Physics Exam. The History Exam was very hard, as I had contemplated, but the English Exam was on the verge of being easy.

            Stayed home from Scout meeting tonight so I could study for Physics Exam. The more I studied, the less I knew so it seemed. Dona & I popped corn to munch, while I studied and she knit. Here's hoping Physics Exam isn't too hard.

January 24, 1934

            What luck! The Physics Exam was much more easy than I had thought possible. If I don't get an "A" on it, I certainly won't get any good grades on my other Exams, for it seemed easier than any Exam I have taken as yet. Perhaps it is because I studied so intensely and long last night, or perhaps my brain is just beginning to function along the lines of Exams. After so much practice it ought to do something worthwhile besides giving me a headache.

            Helped Bud peddle papers this evening. Went to see "The Bowery" at Paramount with the folks, Bud & Collet. A good old fashioned picture, made a hit by the superb acting of Wallace Beery, Jackie Cooper, George Raft, Fay Wray, & a host of others.

January 25, 1934

            A cold, strong wind tried in vain to keep Bud, Collet, and I from peddling to Gary and back today. Although it was cold and the wind was strong, we made the best use of our after Exam vacation. Ate at Woolworths' in Gary, spending 30¢ for two hot dogs, a hamburger, & hot chocolate, cream puff, and a mug of root beer. Was pretty tired this evening.

            Went to Uncle Doc's and Devoy's this evening while Dad prepared their income tax balances.

January 26, 1934

            Made use of free morning to collect a measly five dollars. Went to get report cards with Bud this afternoon. I certainly was tickled at my good fortune in making straight A's in all my four solids, the first time I have ever done it. This trick of fortune was made possible by my studious efforts before the Exams which resulted in my receiving an A in each of my finals. Was one of three who received A in History class, Arthur Erickson and Wm. Moss being the other two. To me, this seems quite a distinction. To them, it more than likely means a degradation, although I sincerely hope not. Dad said very little or nothing to me, at least, concerning my grades. Perhaps he would rather I would make lower ones.

January 27, 1934

            Turned in a fairly good collection today for a change, but seemed to get in "dutch" over a complaint, which I maintained to be falsely charged. After a heated argument with Murray, which resulted in his calling the madame who filed the complaint on the phone, I was given back my hard-earned dime.

            Helped Bud peddle his extremely heavy load of papers. Uncle Jim, Aunt Pansy, and little Tommy Dean (a tom thumb if there ever was one) stopped for the night along with Uncle Jim's boss & the latter's wife. We went to see the new Dodge & it certainly is a "pip." I can not express hope enough in writing to convey to you how I pray for such a car to be bought by dad.

January 28, 1934

            Attended another wedding anniversary; this one on my Aunt Ellen, who has been wedded with Uncle Charley for 49 years. Friends and relatives held celebration this year as they feared the dear old soul would not be with us next year, since her health is so swiftly falling. Members of a local club, the Gleanors, were also present besides intimate relatives so that quite a crowd was gathered. Presents were in the form of groceries, because of the poor plight of the honored ones. Had good eats and a wonderful program of entertainment, showing much talent as well as earnest preparation.

            Temperature fell from 44 to 0 today in a few hours. Was quite cold coming home.

January 29, 1934

            Had only a half-day of school today, in which we followed our future routine with classes shortened, in order that we might become acquainted with new teachers and with the type of work our new subjects required.

            Bud and I went back in afternoon to get books. I bought an English book for 50¢, having only to buy a Trigonometry book now. However, it appears that I will have to pay $1.35 for a new book, since there are very few second hand ones.

            Classes work out to a "tee." I sincerely think I will enjoy my last semester of High School work even though I do burden myself with five fairly stiff solids, Trig., Sociology, Comp. VIII, History VI, and Physics VI.

January 30, 1934

            Things certainly started off with a great big bang today. Had a test in Trig. and greatly fear results. Received a tough Sociology assignment but made a half decent stab at it.

January 31, 1934

            Have decided to go back to old method of dating entries since it makes it least conspicuous and therefore much more neater in appearance [went back to using black instead of red ink for the dates]. Received a B in Trig. test. Not so bad and not very good in comparison with number of A's given.

Feb. 1, 1934

            Second month of year started today. I certainly hope it proves to be a successful one.

            Had one of my greatest experiences of pleasure as you will when I went with Dad, Devoy, and Joe to the automobile show at the Colisium in Chicago. Such an amount of good cars were presented that I would hesitate long before I decided upon any one. Such a crowd. The sponsors certainly must have made money. It seemed as though the Chrysler and Desota exhibits of the new Airflow models were the greatest attraction, for you could hardly even glimpse the cars let alone get anywhere near them.

            In my opinion, the Chrysler and Desota are the coming thing. Chrysler has taken a big gamble on their success because of introducing them before their time, but I really think he has won the gamble judging from comments I overheard and from my own observing.

            Not a unit of the car is wasted, every bit of space being utilized for some practical use. Luxury, safety, speed, efficiency, comfort, smoothness, reliability, these are all found in the new Air-flow models. I certainly wished the Desota was in dad's price range.

Feb. 2, 1934

            Collected tonight as usual. I have allowed diary to lapse for over a week and now I can't remember what did happen today.

Feb. 3, 1934

            Went to grandmother's today. Dad had to go to Crown Point to identify Dillinger. There is no doubt in my dad's mind about he being the one who held up the East Chicago Bank. [My grandfather Lester Milne was at the First National Bank in East Chicago on January 15 when Dillinger robbed the bank. Lester had cashed several employees' paychecks for them when Dillinger entered the bank. Lester quickly dropped the roll of cash behind a railing, where it was safe during the robbery. Dillinger ordered everyone in the bank to stand against a wall. A young mother came into the bank with a baby in a stroller. Dillinger ordered her to join the others, to which she replied, "But I'm not in the picture." He responded to the effect that this wasn't a picture and she'd better get over there. Dillinger killed a police officer outside the bank during the robbery. My dad said that when Lester went to identify Dillinger at the Crown Point Jail, Lester was upset by the look Dillinger gave him. Dillinger's eyes seemed to day: "I'll remember you, buddy, and if I ever get out of here…" Dillinger did escape not long after that using the infamous wooden gun. Lester was rather uncomfortable with Dillinger on the loose again, and was greatly relieved when Dillinger was killed. Dillinger photos]

            Received a late Xmas gift which was left at grandmother's by Milly. It was a swell tie & handkerchief to match.

Feb. 4, 1934

            Uncle Frank's and Aunt Maud came down to grandmother's for dinner [Don't know who Uncle Frank was, but Maud Fish was Eva's mother's sister]. Dona Jean and I went skating & sliding on the swamp pond.

            Bud and Collet went to Cedar Lake on bicycles today. They say that Cedar Lake is frozen up all over, and that they rode from one end to another on their bikes.

Feb. 5, 1934

            Snowed a bit today. Stayed home tonight & studied after taking Bud over to see Collet about his bike which was broken on their trip to Cedar Lake & back.

Feb. 6, 1934

            Dad's 39^th birthday this day. One more year and life shall begin for him, for it is said that life begins at forty. I hope this is less than half of the birthdays he is to have. He seemed to appreciate the Bible we gave him.

            Bud and Collet came over while mother, dad, and Dona Jean went to see "Golden Harvest," which I had already seen. We played ping-pong until the folks came home & then had some ice-cream & cake with dad. A sort of informal birthday party. Was pretty late when I went to bed.

Feb. 7, 1934

            Bud and Collet over again last night in my room. Collet read while Bud and I studied. It seems that my study is not my own, but my friends' as well. I am glad that they like it; for, after all, I made it myself.

            Mother and Dona Jean washed the bathroom down with a little help of dad's later on.

Feb. 8, 1934

            Went to Sr. Hi-Y meeting tonight instead of Jr. Hi-Y. After a short business meeting, in which Glen & a few others of us played with tuning forks, we went to hear Rev. Parret give a short but to the point speech on the oath of the Hi-Y clubs.

Feb. 9, 1934

            Collected this evening and worked on school subjects after supper.

Feb. 10, 1934

            Helped Bud peddle papers after I had turned in my collection. Uncle Walter was here for dinner. Had quite a lot of fun playing ping-pong by myself by means of a back-board I fixed up.

            Bud, Collet and I went to Paramount to see "8 Girls in a Boat" with Dorothy Wilson and the actor who played as Larry in "Little Women." The picture, staged in a most delightful & beautiful girls' camp, seemed to strike some inner feeling with me that wouldn't let me forget it for some time. It made me want to live the part of the actors, for the picture seemed almost heavenly, although it dealt with a touchy subject. Dorothy Wilson sure was my favorite and if everyone loved her acting as I do, I am sure she would soon become a star.

            Also saw Agnes Ayres in vaudeville. She was Rudolph Valentino's leading lady in several of his famous silent pictures. O'Connor family of tap dancers also on the vaudeville program.

Feb. 11, 1934

            A perfect Sunday today.

            Eddie & family, Gertie & family, & Aunt Ellen and Uncle Charley came for dinner today. Had a marvelous time and a marvelous dinner prepared by mother. They seemed to enjoy the home movies very much.

Feb. 12, 1934

            Pres. Lincoln's birthday today. A reverend from East Chicago gave one of the best speeches on this great man in auditorium session this morning. He brought out the fact that Lincoln was at one time one of the most hated men of the countries, & that Booth was not the only one who would like to have slain him. This can hardly seem possible out of civilization, but such seems to be the price of all great philosophers who think in terms of future generations. In this respect, Lincoln comes close to be compared with Jesus Christ, who suffered from the sins of his brethren who slew him on the cross.

Feb. 13, 1934

            Had a speech on musical instruments in Physics today by Mr. Truman, director of the Girl's Band. Was quite interesting.

Feb. 14, 1934

            Saw "The Power and the Glory" with Spencer Tracy and Colleen Moore at the Calumet. Was indeed a good picture told in a much different manner. The story began at the end and retrogressed. However, it had you "jumping" around considerable in the sequence of events. Also played Screeno & came very near winning a prize – lacked one number.

Feb. 15, 1934

            Well, I stayed home for a change tonight & worked on Sociology notebook which is due Monday.

Feb. 16, 1934

            Have been asked to participate in pageant of Washington's life given by Sphinx Club. It will be my first public appearance on the Hammond High stage & I have to wear tight silk pants for the occasion. Can you imagine?

            Bud and I saw "One Way Journey" at Calumet. Lionel Barrymore & the other actors did well indeed. Lionel Barrymore made you see the trials, woes, and troubles of a "plug" country doctor. The picture seemed to me to be a revelation of the old fashioned mental country doctor as compared with the more modern scientific doctor. The country doctor was able to make well a dying patient where scientific doctors had failed because of his spiritual advice.

Feb. 17, 1934

            Same old routine today. Collected, turned in, helped Bud & Collet peddle papers, and went to the show, - these are regular Saturday occurrences, so it seems. However, I went to the Calumet instead of the Paramount & I went with Dona Jean instead of Bud or Collet or both. Saw Lee Tracy in "Turn Back the Clock," a wild and humorous dream if there ever was one. Dad payed my way so I was out no money.

Feb. 18, 1934

            To Sunday School for the first time in weeks. The same young teacher & the same boys, with the exception of the absence of Bill Jones permanently & Chuck Halead temporarily.

            I had a very delicious dinner over at Hester's, following which I rode some on my bike against a perfectly drastic blizzard. I say drastic because it spoiled all our plans for our weekly Sunday ride or outing. We fixed up the club-house instead.

            Bud came over in the evening to study. I finished my Sociology notebook, English theme, & did some trigonometry. Beat Collet 2 out of 3 games later on in the evening.

Feb. 19, 1934

            Got "A-" in English theme on "What Makes a Well-read Person?" Not bad for a start. Received an "A" & a "B+" in two Physics tests. Not so good, considering the number of "A's" given out.

            Went to practice for the pageant this evening after school. Miss Lowery let her temper run around midst the group when she became irksome over our "wrangling" and called us "Jackasses," without even so much as blinking an eye. Her reprimandation served its purpose, for everything went fine afterwards.

Feb. 20, 1934

            Practiced until 5:30 P.M. again tonight. Glen Bigelow came home with me since we had to go back at 6:30 for a Sr. Hi-Y meeting. We played ping-pong & made a lamp shade for our table, so that light shines in no one's eyes.

            Quite a bit was accomplished at Sr. Hi-Y meeting tonight. After a heavy supper of sauer kraut frankfurts and pie, we repaired to room 221 to carry on the business of the evening. It was generally decided that no sergeant-at-arms was needed at our club, for we considered ourselves capable of controlling ourselves during formal business meetings. I myself thought it no disgrace to have a sergeant-at-arms since almost every club or organization such as a lodge that I know of has one. Plans for a ping-pong tournament were briefly discussed & Robt. Leas was given the responsibility of its hopeful success. Among other things, it was decided that we should go on a tobaggon trip to Miller Sunday afternoon if the cold & snowy weather prevailed.

Feb. 21, 1934

            George Washington's Birthday today. No school in commemoration of the great, one & only "father of our country."

            Bud & Collet came over & we had a ping-pong tournament on a small scale. I am still the champion. I forgot to say yesterday that Bud & I went to Collet's birthday party, if you can call it such. Had a pint of ice cream apiece & played blind-man's bluff all evening like a bunch of four or five year olds.

            To get back to the present, Oscar's were over for supper. I finished or rather did my History notebook which is due tomorrow.

Feb. 23, 1934

            It was announced today that we are to give the pageant over again Thursday evening, March 1. It must have been pretty good.

            Bud, Dona Jean, and I went to see "Wild Boys of the Road" tonight at the Calumet. Was a pretty good picture presenting the troubles & dangers arising from the numerous young vagrants who are forced to leave home because of financial conditions.

Feb. 24, 1934

            Bud and I went around down town today and did considerable shopping. We bought a couple of wallets or billfolds at Goldblatts and spent money in general. Helped, or rather, failed to help Bud peddle papers.

Feb. 25, 1934

            To Sunday School and church this morning. Stayed home this afternoon and played with dog on sled. Played a little ping-pong with Collet later on.

Feb. 26, 1934

            Fifth week of second semester started today. Progressing fairly well in every subject so far; however, I must begin reading books.

Feb. 27, 1934

            Had talk on how to use the Stretoscope or something of the sort today in Physics class by John West. Physics is quite interesting in its dealings with the subject of light.

Feb. 28, 1934

            I was initiated to the Sphinx Club tonight, the last night of the month, this [not] being a leap year. I certainly believe it is a fine club because it consists of nothing but fine boys & girls. A short and excellent program of music and a chalk-talk was given being followed with refreshments in the form of candy, carmel-corn, and nut meats.

March 1, 1934

            The day of the tournament nears, and I know not for sure whether I shall get to see a game. However, I certainly hope so. A Sr. Hi-Y meeting was called for tonight but for some reason or other unknown to me was called off. Went over to Junior's for supper & stayed till ten. Played "Pit" with Tom Smith, Joe, Dick McKain, & another fine chap whose name I failed to catch.

March 2, 1934

            The day of the tournament! Hammond won its game with Hobart after a close shave in which Hobart almost beat us in the last half. The score was 31 to 28, which is really close. I saw Hammond beat Calumet Township tonight very badly, since the latter is considered to be a weak team. Dad and I took Bud, Dhyle, Tracy Granger, & Carl Jacobson with us. Hammond Tech certainly showed up fine, beating Emerson in an overtime game. This feat of victory caused Gary to be completely out of the tournament, since its other two teams had also been beat. Dick McKain & Joe rode home with us from Gary, where they had rode with Ernestine Kitts in the morning.

March 3, 1934

            Needless to say, I collected & turned in today, this being Saturday, and also I carried on the Saturday routine by buying a malted milk at Hook's. Was unable to go see Hammond High & Tech play in the finals because Dad had to go to plant. Collet, Bud and I almost decided to go to the tournament but in view of the fact that it would take the better part of a hard-earned dollar, we decided to go to Parthenon and see Laurel & Hardy in "Son of the Desert" which proved to be a hilariously funny and good picture. After the show we went to Hook's & I had my second malted milk today. Here we learned that Hammond High had won an easy victory over Tech, to our great delight (Bud & I) and Collet's great sorrow.

March 4, 1934

            Went to Sunday School today but did not stay for church. Bud, Collet, and I started for "Swallow Pond" on our bicycles but Collet's bike frame busted & he was forced to go home. Luckily, Diamond came by in his ford roadster & took Collet & his bike home. Bud and I then were on an excursion trip to the Little Calumet River. On the way home my tire began leaking air as fast as a pump could put it in and I had to ride home between gas stations as fast as I could. Mother, dad, Dona Jean and Rex went out to Oscar's and Mable's for supper. I went over to Collet's for a little while tonight after I had finished some Sociology & some Physics.

March 5, 1934

            In view of the fact that we won the sectional tournament the second time in succession, which has never been done before, Mr. Spohn or Mr. Caldwell decided to let us out for the afternoon. We had only an auditorium session, the first, second, and third periods. It rained in the afternoon, however, & rather spoiled the "free" afternoon. After such a nice sunny day as was yesterday, a strong wind blowing before it rain, snow, & even hail was quite unwelcomed by myself & I venture to say a multitude of others.

March 5, 1934

            Stayed at home alone tonight.

March 6, 1934

            Gave pageant again at P.T.A. Meeting on the Hammond High School stage. Had a good time and refreshments of cake & coffee after the play. Got better acquainted with Arthur Erickson and I certainly do find him to be a very likeable chap.

March 7, 1934

            Not much of anything happened today. Dona Jean & I stayed home while folks went to Paramount.

March 8, 1934

            Just another day of routine.

March 9, 1934

            Collected tonight as usual and learned the very good news from Mr. Spohn that I had been accepted as a member of the National Honorary Society. To tell you the truth, dear friend, confidentially of course (I have been forgetting that my diary is truly my friend), I hardly thought I should make it. But now that I have, my delight knows no bounds. My scholastic average, being about the third highest, enabled me to be voted in even if I did have such a poor leading record. Character, scholarship, and a few minor points counterbalanced my poor leadership record enough to get me in. Received a B in Trig test & was very discouraged, since it means a B on the 6 weeks and also because I feel that I deserved an "A," since I had everything answered correctly, as Mrs. Rupp readily acknowledged. Her poor manner of grading is the factor which will bring down my average for this semester.

March 10, 1934

            Went to Grandparents today. Grandma & Grandpa have their studio couch and kerosene stove which they purchased with the $50 they received for their golden anniversary wedding gift. They certainly are pleased with it, and rightfully too.

March 11, 1934

            Uncle Chris & Uncle Milt's came down to folks today. Had a very good dinner & an excellent time. Hammond won the regional in an overtime against Valpo. Just think! It is the first time Hammond High has ever copped a regional, & besides that, she won the sectional two times in succession for the first time in this section. A lot of credit certainly goes to Speed Campbell. I certainly am proud to be graduating from such a school as good old, honor-taking Hammond High. Beaver Dam & N.J. also won their regionals. [N.J. might be North Judson.]

March 12, 1934

            Quite a lot of celebration today of course. The hallways are overflowing with beaming faces, each seeking some way to go down state whether it knows it to be impossible or not. There will be an auditorium session Wednesday, a send-off parade Thursday afternoon for the boys, & no school Friday, so that we may listen or go to Indianapolis & see Hammond beat Greencastle.

March 13, 1934

            Bud and I began to fix up Dhyle's desk for Dona Jean's birthday gift. Had quite a lot of fun after we finished it.

March 14, 1934

            The whole family was invited over to Marjorie & Bob's for a delightful dinner of ham, beans, potatoes, and all that goes with them. After dinner the rest went to Parthenon to see "Dinner at 8" while I returned home & went with Bud to see "Stage-Mother" at the Calumet. A fairly good show & a delightful time playing Scruno was enjoyed by both of us.

March 15, 1934

            Seventeen years ago today I first saw God's light, while eleven years ago today Dona Jean joined the happy family. In other words, today is Dona Jean's and my birthday, I being seventeen and she eleven. Received a pair of shoes & a game from the folks, while sister received a pair of shoes also and a desk, which I think I have said heretofore was purchased from Dhyle. Thank you dear friend, for my Happy Birthday.

March 16, 1934

            Oh Boy! What a day! In the first place, no school. In the second, spring-like weather and lunch at Hester's. In the third, Dona Jean's party & Bud's & my fun driving the car.

            I went for the "____ds" and then after water. Carl called up and I, or rather we, tried in vain to find him. I couldn't find what he wanted. I later found that he was going down state, but I couldn't go because of paper route. What luck. Saw "Hell & High Water" at Calumet.

March 17, 1934

            Not so good today. Rainy weather & poor collections. Also small pay. Add to this a 10 point defeat of Hammond by Indianapolis Tech & now have the opposite of a perfect day. Logansport beat Tech for the state championship in finals tonight.

            Stayed over at Bud's till eleven tonight. Came home & went to bed without taking a bath, & my six weeks was really supposed to be up.

March 18, 1934

            Went to Sunday School and church this morning. Heard an exceptionally good speaker who certainly was on fire with God. He was Paul Ginnis, a young man of about 25 I should judge, who bent his life's career on the side of the Lords' but seven years ago. There is no doubt but what you will hear more of Paul Ginnis someday in the near future.

            Bud and I went over to Collet's this afternoon, since Collet broke his frame beyond repair. His bicycle frame I really mean. After a short visit there, we all returned to Bud's house, where we played everything from the piano to hide-and-go-seek.

            Later on, Bud and Collet came over to my basement and we played ping-pong, in which I succeeded in holding my title. So you see, we really made the rounds today, this being a snowy & gloomy day unfit for bike hiking.

Marcy 19, 1934

            Well, you can bet your stars there were plenty of gloomy groups gathered in the halls today, and the topic of discussion was common to each – why Tech beat Hammond. I did not have to give report today in Sociology since Mr. Beyers postponed the agony until next Monday.

            Stayed home last night after supper and finished "North of 36," by Emmerson Hough. Putting it mildly, it is a "darned" good book. It successfully treats Western life in a manner which I have never seen depicted before, but which is apparently the true life of the Westerner of old. Although the cowhands wore no special costumes as we are accustomed to thinking of them, they did all own a saddle, a pair of boots, and expensive spurs. These articles were common to all of their outfits and they were really dramatic historic figures as portrayed in this excellent book.

March 20, 1934

            Saw "Mr. Skitch" with Will Rogers and Zasu Pitts at the Paramount theater. I certainly am glad that I did not miss it, since it was one of the most humorist pictures I have seen this year. It is a picture which would drive away anyone's depression worries, and the actors in it, especially Will Rogers, certainly do deserve full credit for giving to the public such a beautiful picture with the aid of producers etc. of course.

March 21, 1934

            National Honor Society meeting for tonight was postponed until next Wednesday.

            Devoy's were over for dinner or supper as the case may be (with apologies to Arthur Erickson Jr.) tonight. Played ping-pong with Joe and Bud came over so that we had a regular tournament. We also played the "Gold Star Game" I received for a birthday gift.

March 22, 1934

            Mother, Dona Jean, and I went down-town to Dr. Warber's and later to Goldblatt's and Grant's for a little shopping. I drove down and back.

March 23, 1934

            Well, I certainly had a glorious time playing Ping-Pong at the Junior-Senior Party tonight. No matter who my partner was, we did not get beat, either because of luck or because I'm beginning to really play the game. Watched the dancing in progress for a short time but did not enter in, as you would know if you were able to see me as I see myself in the mirror, which I fear shows me to myself as I really am. Drove mother to a party before I went.

March 24, 1934

            Had an interesting but useless argument with Murray this morning over salary. It seems that I'll just have to take my cut and keep my mouth shut or quit, and I need the little money that I do get too badly to quit. So there you are, again, or where are you?

            Alvin Rutz, Bud, and I attempted to have a chicken dinner at Goldblatt's for 18¢ this morning but failed due to the fact that the chicken, toughened by Goldblatt's special frying process, resisted or objected strenuously to our advances. So we ate what little came with the chicken, toast & gravy, lettuce and tomato, fried potatoes (French), three slices of bread with butter enough for one slice, and a whole glass of free Hammond water. But then what do you want for 18¢, egg in your egg-nough?

            Bud, Collet and I traversed the distance to the Parthenon and back again in order to see "Eskimo Wife-Trader," a good story of adventure and love where the breath freezes in your nostrils & Eskimos are Eskimos and don't care who don't know it.

March 25, 1934

            Failed to go to Sunday School or Church this morning since I feared to be failed in Sociology if I did not complete my notebook. Worked all morning & at night on the tiresome manuscript which I hope will rate a "B" or better yet, an "A." Bud & I went to Collet's this afternoon & played tag & baseball.

            It certainly was a beautiful spring day, despite the cold breezes blowing from the north.

March 26, 1934

            Learned today that the auditorium session in honor of the new members of the National Honor Society was to be given tomorrow. Today as the case really happens to be, if I may make a confession I'm all atwitter with fear & delight.

March 27, 1934

            Well, I'm certainly glad that's over. The auditorium session I mean. I found myself wondering whether all this exertion from shaking with fear was worth being in the National Honor SOOOciety, as Wm. Roddo would say. Received several congratulations & have decided that I must learn to return them properly, although I doubt if I'll ever have opportunity to receive any more.

            I have allowed diary to lapse for such a long time, that I can not remember what has happened.

Week of April 1 to 8

            Went to Grandma's for Easter & saw Aunt Tola's and Uncle Doc's new home. Also, dad, Dona Jean, and I saw Russell's new car and rode in it.

            Dad and I drove the old car down one night this week and drove the new one home. I thought it best to express my sentiment to the old car by writing the following:

To an Automobile

            There is heaps of sentiment in this world of ours – just heaps of it. I never knew it before, but now I know that there is even sentiment to an automobile. The older one grows, the more sentiment he is able to find or see in worldly things. Yes, there is even sentiment to an automobile, especially one which has been owned and driven for six long, eventful years.

            As my father and I drove our six year old car for the last time, an unexplainable lump rose in my throat. Never before had our "old faithful" performed so perfectly, as it did on this last journey. After serving us like a faithful dog for six years, after taking us through rain and snow so that we might reach our desired destinations, and after traversing 72,000 miles for our pleasure, it wished to show us that it could still serve us for six more years and 72,000 more miles, and would have to be replaced by a new automobile of its same title, as was our purpose on the last ride. I was reminded of an old dog being replaced by a new and lively puppy as we rode along, and father's silence told me that he too was busy with thoughts much the same as mine. Thoughts which could not be uttered in speech because of that unexplainable lump in our throats.

            Yes, there is heaps of sentiment in this world. Sentiment even to an old automobile.

            Well, well, well. Here it is April 19 and nothing entered in my diary since April 8^th. It would be folly to attempt to write what has happened in the intervening length of time. Last Saturday we went to Aunt Mabel's and I worked on my term paper all the time and managed to finish it. We have passed the 600 mile mark on the new Dodge, which made quite a hit at South Bend.

            Due to the fact that this is my last semester, & that graduation cuts it off short, I think this will be my last entry for quite a while, unless something unusual pops up and demands entry.