Mon., 6/30 John Barlycorn died hard tonight. Was real lazy this morning. Received mail in bed but since it was a French letter for Ruth I had to endeavor to read it which I did to my great happiness. Cousin Eli came in afternoon & I sat & sewed while gossiping. Spent all day home. Tonight is the death of old man Barlycorn. He died hard. Big wake held. (*See Appendix E, below).
Tues., 7/1 Had early visitor this morning. Did my wash & gave two umbrellas to be fixed to a down & out fellow who put me in mind of Uncle George & I had to chat awhile with him for he looked to be friendless & one can give a cheering word to one of those down but not outs. Sold my white silk skirt to Miss Greely. So glad I will not have to wear it. Uncle called this evening. Made a gray skirt over for myself.
(Appendix E) John Barleycorn/Prohibition – John Barleycorn was an old British folksong referring to alcohol and the barley used to make it. In 1913, Jack London, named his autobiography “John Barleycorn”, because it centered around his struggle with alcoholism. Under the prohibition act of November, 1918, the law stated “after June 30, 1919, until the conclusion of the present war or thereafter until the termination of demobilization, the date of which shall be determined and proclaimed by the president, it shall be unlawful, etc.”. As of July 1, 1919, the manufacture, transport, or sale of alcoholic beverages was illegal. Nationwide prohibition began in 1920, with the ratification of the 18th Amendment, which was repealed on December 5, 1833 under the 21st Amendment.
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