The farm in Baltimore County, "Falling Green," was home to many generations of the Brooke family. Edith F. Brooke Green (1869 - ca. 1954) wrote diaries throughout her life, and the volumes from her girlhood reflect daily life on the farm. The diary entries refer to farm and household chores such as planting vegetables, canning, and cleaning. Her family enjoyed being part of an active social circle of extended family and friends.

Edith wrote these selections from her second diary were written when she was fifteen years old. At the age of twenty-eight, she married Dr. William Green and moved to the town of Brookeville. Edith's life was busy with the daily activities of a homemaker and mother. After her husband's death in 1919, Edith returned to her family's plantation and kept house with her sister, Mary.

Cover and title page of Edith F. Brooke's second diary, September 1884 to April 1885.
Diary entry for October 1, 1884 (top of page 9). "Oct - 1st - Wed_ Warm & a little cloudy. Amanda here putting up Catsup. Capt Strain over." This entry hints at the ways rural women worked together to complete big tasks such as putting up catsup. For a full transcription, click here.
Diary entry for April 3, 1885 (bottom of page 74). "April 3rd Fri Clear & warm. Tied up raspberries planted potatoes pease onion Aunt Margaret Emma & Charly called Mamma & Aunt Ediths birthday . . ." For a full transcription, click here.

 

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