From the Line-a-Day Diary of Nathan Beekley, Iron Clerk
In 1849, a young man named Nathan Beekley, perhaps 22, moved to Philadelphia to begin a new career keeping the books of an iron manufactory. At the same time, he began keeping a book of his own: a line-a-day diary in which he recorded the cultural events, street entertainments, and courting rituals that filled his days and nights.
The original diary (shown above) is located in the manuscripts collection of the American Antiquarian Society. The transcription will be posted daily and can be searched by keyword, subject, or date.
Category Archives: Theatre
December 31, 1849 (Monday)
Here is the end of another year, the end of 1849. How rapidly the time has flown since this day one year! What changes have taken place, in some instances for the better, in others for worse. Even as regards … Continue reading
December 27, 1849 (Thursday)
Rather pleasant today—not so cold. Called at the Apprentices’ Library and saw Miss F—y C—t, on the way to tea. Stopped in at the Chestnut St. Theatre a little while—nothing worth seeing. This is the last mention of Fanny Clement … Continue reading
Posted in Socializing, Theatre
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December 4, 1849 (Tuesday)
Cloudy all day. Heard the Opera of “Masaniello” this evening—just middling—poor house.
Posted in Entertainment, Theatre
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November 26, 1849 (Monday)
Raining pretty much all day, but cleared off during the evening. Went to the Opera this evening to hear Miss Rosa Jacques, in the “Daughter of the Regiment.” She is a most charming little singer & actress, and pretty, too. … Continue reading
Posted in Entertainment, Music, Theatre
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November 24, 1849 (Saturday)
Rather doubtful sort of weather. Very mild, almost like Spring. Went to the Walnut to night to see Murdoch, who appeared for only once. He is capital. Very good house. Nathan first saw James Edward Murdoch at the Walnut Street … Continue reading
Posted in Entertainment, Theatre
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November 23, 1849 (Friday)
Pleasant still. Went to the Walnut St. Theatre this evening to see Shakspeare comedy of “Much ado about nothing,” the principal characters being Mr. Wheatly and Miss Fisher. It was first rate.
Posted in Entertainment, Theatre
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November 21, 1849 (Wednesday)
Beautiful day. Went to the Walnut St. Theatre this evening to see Miss C. Cushman for the last time. She appeared as Pauline in the “Lady of Lyons.” As usual a crowded house. Met W. Koplin & S. Thomas, of … Continue reading
Posted in Entertainment, Friends, Norristown, Theatre
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November 20, 1849 (Tuesday)
Fine, clear day again; mild as spring. Went to the Musical Fund Hall this evening to witness the Anniversary of the Philadelphia Bible Society. It was quite interesting—speaking by Bishop Potter and others. Hall crowded.
November 16, 1849 (Friday)
Becoming cool and raw, as if a snow storm was brewing. Went to the Arch St. Theatre this evening to see Miss Davenport, who appeared the play of “The Lady of Lyons.” She is very good.
Posted in Entertainment, Theatre
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November 13, 1849 (Tuesday)
Delightful day. Went to see Charlotte Cushman perform “Henry the Eighth” this evening. The play is not equal to some others. As usual the house was crowded from parquette to dome. Charlotte Cushman, who had been convinced to extend her … Continue reading
Posted in Entertainment, Theatre
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Clerk and the City 