In 1935, Zelpha Morehouse Johncock, a farmer's widow and mother of four, recently remarried, was diagnosed by her family doctor as having cancer and given less than 5 years to live. Faced with the end, she began writing this diary to document the last few years of her life. This unique family and historical legacy is a window into the world of post-depression farm life in the American Midwest (Southcentral Michigan). Along with excerpts from Zelpha's diary, you will find family photos, historical facts, personal stories and commentaries from Zelpha's grandchildren, all which enhance her writings.

Though Zelpha went on to live another 11 years beyond what was predicted, her personal, daily journal remains a historical treasure, documenting her travels, farming strategies, and family connections she made during this unique period in American history.

Price: $22.95

SAMPLE #A

This is how the entry appears in Zelpha's actual handwriting:

This is how another entry appears in the Family Diary of Zelpha Morehouse Johncock:

May 9, 1937

Sunday. A nice day. Mother’s day. Chester came over and stayed until Mable came from church. Lynden came. Ernie & Eva came after May. Kenith & Barbara came down. (So did) Silas & family.

Here is a story told by her grandson Lynden Jr. about Silas, Zelpha's brother:

Listen to audio of story ...

This is a photo that enhances the Family Diary:

Silas Martin (Zelpha's brother) & Lynden Johncock, Sr. (Zelpha's son)

Taken in 1945

SAMPLE #B

This is how the entry appears in Zelpha's actual handwriting:

This is how an entry appears in the Family Diary of Zelpha Morehouse Johncock:

June 20, 1936           

I went over and took care of little Lynden (Junior) so Lynden (Senior) & Esther could go to the Beattie funeral (Note: See “Story: Beattie Funeral” below).  Had 7 weeders all day.  3 wheat hoers all day and 3 1/2 days & 3 1/2 days haying. 

Here is a story from her grandson Jerry about the Beattie funeral (mentioned in this entry):