1960-1975 -Family History
1960 – The tennis court at Arrow Cottage was completed. The attic in the guesthouse was turned into a bedroom and storage closest. We competed for the first time at Madison Square Garden. I rode Mr. Fox in the ASHA final horsemanship competition. I was one of the youngest to compete in that event. I qualified because at an earlier show not enough riders completed the course, so I was quickly enrolled. Mr. Fox refused a fence. Hans, a weimaraner was given to us by the Mischlers. Cy won the grand champion female at the Ohio State Fair. Dad brought a big army balloon that we played with the Tobins in the yard, throwing it into the air and diving under it. Dad played Santa Claus for John Tobin. The Tobins lived in guesthouse because Aunt Dibbie and Uncle Austin were separated. Aunt Dibbie devised many art contests and projects for us. Farley and I stayed at the annex of the guesthouse. I think we fought a great deal. I remember putting a daddy long leg spider down the drain and not taking a bath for the rest of the summer. Baby robins fell out of their nest by the annex and their mom accepted them when we put them back. Aunt Dibbie used to sing to us at night. Mom went to work at Hawken. We drove to Washington D.C. (where Cy and I ran up the stairs to the Washington Monument) and to Florida. Dad gave a cigar to the sheriff who stopped us for speeding. No ticket!!! Newt came with us. We stayed near Daytona Beach at a place that might have been called Eleanor Village. Cy built a tree house in a tree next to driveway in cattle pasture.
1961 – For $25 John and I bought, Mr. Chips, a Jack Russell Fox terrier from Jan Francis. Scamp (AKA Scootie) was the mother. The Tobins lived with us. Farley and I went to Pugwash for big Eaton family reunion. Dad shot a stag in Hungary. We put its antlers in chalet above fireplace. Its head and antlers were hung above the fireplace/grill in the Chalet, our pool house. We competed again at Madison Square Garden with Mr. Fox and Beau’s Cottage. I won the Pennsylvania Pony Cumulative point award and the sportsmanship award. Elizabeth made her First Communion. We went to the Greenbriar. John started playing the piccolo. Around this time Mom and Dad went to Acapulco, Mexican for the Young President’s Organization meeting. Kurt Vonnegut spoke and our family adopted Daffodil 11. Mom slipped a note under his hotel room door, and he wrote each of us a poem. Mine said “nice, nice, very nice,/cathy eaton,/so many different people/in the same device---)
1962 – Cy changed his name to Seth French, put PA license plates on his Chevy, took his 4-H money and ran away to Nashville, TN, where he enrolled in a highschool. Mr. Chips ran away and I got Heidi, (pup of Chips and Miggles). We went to Bermuda with David LeFevre. Bob and Chrissy LeFevre were married. WE competed in Harrisburg, PA. The door was removed in the library to the patio and from the living room to the front porch and Mom redid the dining room. We had Thanksgiving at the Chalet (our pool house). We acquired a pool table. Years later Beth Ferree sold the pool table for $25 at a tag sale; John and she got married anyway.
1963 – Cy drove across country (California or Bust sign on Chevy) and began living with Aunt Sue and Uncle Tim Morley and their five children in San Jose, CA, where he attended high school. John started Kent School, CT. Cy brought home Charlie, the tiny raccoon. Aunt Sissy died of an overdose. Cy broke arm. Kennedy was assassinated. It was announced at HBS carnival at the beginning of our 8th grade play. We skied on spring break at Stow, VT. We took train to California and stopped at Yosemite and Yellowstone National Park. We visited Uncle Bob and Aunt Barbara in Denver, CO, and the Morleys in San Jose. Newt came with us. We drove back. I believe I was 13 when we all left the church permanently. I felt one should either buy into the Catholic Church completed or not do it at all. I think Mom went to church because it meant so much to Granny.
1964 – We went to Nova Scotia with Barretts and Lib Wood, and Adele. Dad went into business with Mr. Carmichael, Uncle Fay Lefevre, and Bill McMillan. Dad had race horse Porch Swallow. Heidi had puppies and we kept Snoopy for Elizabeth. We turned Elizabeth’s bedroom into a huge closet for Mom, Elizabeth got upstairs bedroom, and I got Cy’s first floor bedroom, which Mom redid in yellows and greens. I won a first at Madison Square Garden with Flying Mouse, a pony owned by the Leisures. (sp) I went to Washington DC with my class and then flew out to Vail to ski with my family. Dave Watson and Clive Constant (sp) from England lived with us for several months. We spent New Year’s Eve with the Carmichael’s. Cy and Twink (Harmon) McBride worked in Calvary, Canada. They saw the big cattle stampede. Clive Constant and Dave from England lived with us for several months.
Some excerpts from my diary:
8.29.1964 Sewickly. Mouse – pony champion. 8.30. Ate dinner with the Barretts. 8.31. Found kittens. 9.1. Rode with hounds. Saw a brace (two foxes). Went to Granny’s for supper. Kilkee wouldn’t jump. Shopped with Granny and Eliz. Granny beat me at Russian Bank. 9.3. Rode on trails. I groomed Mr. Fox. Went swimming. Bowled. I got 127. 9.6. Rode at Troika Track. Brooke and I fell off. 9.9. Played tennis with Adele 6-0, 6-3. 9.12. Horse Show. Me pony champion, John junior champion. 9.14. Got field hockey stick. 11.20. HBS carnival went well. Went skating with Ann Worthington & sister. I’m not very good. 11.26. Thanksgiving with Barretts. 11.27. Dancing school! I wore white dress with black velvet toop and black stripes. Went to Subscription dance with Steve Furer and Dick Gascoin. Steve gave me corsage.We went to football game. Clive and Dave went to.
1965 –On January 2nd “I rode Leonka, Carmichaels spent the night, boys played poker. It snowed second time this winter. Elizabeth and I built a long fort. Twink McBride came over.” 1.29. went to slumber party at Ann Worthington’s. Took lots of pictures.” Dad and Mom went on a trip around the world and visited India and China. Elizabeth and I stayed at the HBS dorm for a month. I studied piano with Mr. Howard. Dad and Mom went to Kent School to visit John. I was on Citizenship Honor Roll. I went to dancing school. (Mrs. Ford’s; Mr. Clancy was instructor.) Julie North was assistant. We kept Cricket, a puppy of Heidi’s. Played ping pong with Adele. We held family reunion for Granny Stephens at Arrow Cottage: all her children and grandchildren. Frank and Keitt Wood were married. The pony Shorty stayed at Arrow and pulled little cart. From grooming him who rolled in poison ivy I had terrible case of poison ivy and was in charge of the all the grandchildren under 10. The photographer fell in pool. I got three shots for the poison ivy and went to dance at the Chagrin Valley Hunt Club. I wore a pink and white checked sleeveless dress and no one wanted to dance with me. Cy dated Lynn Gates in San Jose and she came to visit while Cy worked at Acadia with Jerry Talberg under Truman Kingsley. We skied at Sun Valley, Idaho. Swam in heated outdoor pool. I think Rachel and Polly Williams were there. Saw two eagles being trained like falcons. On way stopped in Chicago and Salt Lake City. Saw Mormon Temple and lake of salt. Clara Reece came to work for Dad. At Easter Mom gave me and Elizabeth Easter baskets. 5.31. “Off from school. Adele, Elizabeth, Sarah, and I played SPUD. Others went swimming. I had a cough. Granny stayed with us. Caught turtle, crayfish, toad, pollywogs in creek. We killed a three foot snake because it had a toad in its mourth. It was harmless. We’re murderers.” 6.3. Messed on composition on my English exam. I had to go to bathroom and almost wet my pants. “Elizabeth lectured me on popularity. She things I ought to go to parties and be popular (like she is). I guess I’m a social flop.” 6.4. “Cliff found painted turtle and gave him to us.”We kept the pony Shorty at Arrow. Socialized with Carmichaels. Showed at Great Barrington, Connecticut. The Hopsteddars came to visit. Hobbie went to Colgate with Dad, and Dottie went to Smith. Went to Nova Scotia with Barretts and Tobins. Picnicked at Houlihan Lanke. Strong current when swimming. Took long walk down cove. Played tennis. Went deep sea fishing. Prizes for first fish, biggest fish, littlest fish, ugliest fish. Climbed Mill Stream. Swam at dock. Swam at Grananne’s heated pool. Played cards. 8.8.65 Swam across cove. On way home flew over World’s Fair. Bob and Chris LeFevre used to come to pool. I think Bob had motorcycle and we picked up corn on the cob. Showed at Rolling Rock Horse Show in PA. On my 15th birthday I went off course on Gay Friar and Rodney Jenkins gave me pin, also a kiss, and told me he had gone off course lots of times. (Funny how often as an adult I dream about going off course.)
1966 – John graduated Kent School. It was the last year Dad did a family Christmas card. I studied French with Mr. Fred Harvy. My diary describes falls and which horses we rode. Uncle Charlie Eaton (US congressman from New Jersey) died. Cy collected coins. We went to Vail with the Porters and Chamberlains. John raced at the Henley crew regatta. Mom and Dad went to Rumania, Hungary, and Ireland. In February went to Lake Placid with Anne Knight and her family. Saw the luge run. Showed at Rolling Rock Horse Show in PA. I went to field hockey/lacrosse camp in Maine for a week in the summer with Ann Worthington, Peggy Allen, Adele Wick, and Jen Coppins. At Columbus Horse Show I fainted. Pam pony champion and Elizabeth reserve. I learned how to drive. Picked up Susan Barrett and we took typing at Cleveland Heights High School. Played chess and tennis with Adele. On my sixteenth birthday I got typewriter, book, sweater, and pierced earrings. 8.9. Got my ears pierced.The cake from Hough Bakery had car on it. At Grand Prix Horse Show, huge rains, and everyone went barefoot in the mud. Rodney got 2md, 3rd, 4th place. We spent Thanksgiving in Louisville. On December 5, I rode Flying Mouse for the last time at Acadia in front of a group of Russians. For Elizabeth’s birthday John and I bought her raccoon painted on wood. (Millie Murphy also loved this raccoon and we kept giving it to her and then a few months later she would return it to us.) On Elizabeth’s birthday she got bird, we played twister, and Pam made her a cake. Mom, Elizabeth and I went the musical Man of Le Mancha. Went to Rec League party. The LeFevres always came out on Christmas Eve, and the Barretts also came out on Christmas. Aunt Mary gave us great presents, like foos ball. Went tobogganing with the Kingsley kids. Truman Kingsley managed the cattle farm, and Mom helped Trumie learn to speak and read. Went to Hunt Club Dance with Peter Griesinger. On December 31 rode in the morning, went to Carmichael’s, then went out with Peter Grisienger. Buffet, tsister, tobogganing, & surfing. All fell off the toboggan. Home 2:45 AM.
1967 – On January 1st I rode Carol W. We did pairs over cavaleties.John went to Wellington College in England on the English Speaking Union Exchange program. We traveled to Greece, Italy, and Egypt. Elizabeth went to Alford Lake Camp in Union, Maine. Mom retired temporarily from Hawken School. I had two bad falls on Carol W, the last one at the finals AHSA in Michigan, which was the last time I competed. John went to the Dublin Horse Show with Kent girls. WE went to Expo ‘67 in Montreal. I raised bees in glass observation hive for biology project with Jen Coppins. Mom and Dad traveled to Cyprus. Uncle Mac was ordained. New Year’s Eve party with the Carmichael’s. John went to Bachelor’s Ball. Kent ESU exchange guy Mike Austin stayed during Christmas and went to senior dance with me while John went with Adele, and Newt went with Page. Mike kissed Elizabeth under the mistletoe. I went to Lib Wood’s coming out party in Louisville. We kept the pool open in winter with tarp over it. I painted in oil the infamous self portrait that Dad took photos trying to get me to look like the painting. We grew huge pumpkins. I dated Peter Tolles. I flew to California with Dad and got sick on the plane.
1968 – I graduated from Hathaway Brown School and won the Raymond Short Story prize and an honorable mention from Atlantic Monthly. We went to Ellicottville with the Trigg family. I visited the Butterfields (The Glades?) and was a junior/senior CT at Alford Lake Camp while Elizabeth was a camper and performed in Arsenic and Old Lace. Cy was a Vista Volunteer in West Virginia. All the volunteers came to Arrow Cottage for Thanksgiving. We went to David Hume’s wedding in NYC. We skied at Vail. John competed at Henley. Miss Anne Cutter Coburn retired from being headmistress at HBS for 30 years. Bruce Barker came to visit from Dartmouth. John had a blue VW Square Back and Cy had a motorcycle. I went to Smith College. Mom drove me out. I was presented at the Assembly Ball and was featured debutant in Vanity Fair. Pam Carmichael had the first and second junior horses in the country. (Lancelot and Chance Step) We dug up the pool pipes. ESCHEW OBFUSCATION present from Mom. Cy had the dog Vista. We watched John compete in Crew at the Eastern Sprints. I went to amusement park with Elizabeth and Chase Anderson. Elizabeth bought Linda Trigg’s motorbike. Dad, Mom, and Elizabeth came up to visit at Smith. Went to New York to visit Aunt Dibbie and go to Madison Square Garden. After getting haircut, I had to carry very heavy suitcase (that Mom had when she was at Smith) and bus driver left me because I didn’t know if I paid before I got on the bus or after. Pam Carmichael was champion. Ate with Ray and Jan Frances. Saw the Tobins. Built snow woman with Nancy Ammon and Jeannie Howard. Vista crew came for Thanksgiving.. Met Mike Curran at mixer; he had returned from Vietnam. Went to party celebrating U. Mass student avoiding draft.
1969 – I went to Australia (New Zealand and Figi) with 11 Americans in the Experiment in International Living and lived in Leeton, New South Wales with Hazel and Frank Collins and their children Kevin, Jeff, Jennifer and Denise. I fell in love with Keith Waters and broke up with Peter Tolles who was serving in Vietnam. Keith gave me a ring which I lost in a snowball fight. Cy went to The Gambia, West Africa as a Peace Corp Volunteer. Dad and Elizabeth bought two Western horses (Lady and Tylaro.) We went to Aspen. I used to quit skiing at noon. Turned out I had Mono. Newt and Sandy Barrett got married. Mom went to her 25th reunion at Smith College. Ili Nastase and Eon Tiriac competed with the Rumanian Tennis Team in Cleveland and came to Arrow Cottage. Heidi and Snoopy had 5 puppies. Adele kept Martha, the all white spotted dog. Mom bought the oval mahogany dining room table. We got Hector. Went to ski at Ellicottville with the Triggs. Adele, Ann Knight, and Missy Marshall came to Nova Scotia with me. Grampa invited me to his house and asked me to return to Smith and organize draft resisters.
1970 – Elizabeth and I went with Mom and Dad to London, England, visited Cy in The Gambia, West Africa (also Canary Island, Dakar, Bathurst), Istanbul, Turkey, Budapest, Hungary, Bucharest, Rumania for the opening of the Hotel Duna. John coxed an eight boat in Henley, England. Colleges went on strike against the Vietnam War. I applied to ten college exchange so I could study anthropology and sociology in Gambia, but I only made first on the waiting list. Subsequently I changed my major to English.
1971 -- Went to St. Catherine, Ontario to watch John in pair with cox in the World Championship for Crew. He was 10th out of 17 boats at Ridley College. The oarsmen were Paul Wilson and Bob Arlett. John graduated from Dartmouth. Mom couldn’t attend because she had high fever and went to hospital. Elizabeth and I accompanied Grandpa, David and Jill Lefevre, Norm Cominski and his wife to Santiago, Chile where Grandpa met with President Allende, who was later assassinated. We went to ocean. Over spring vacation Mom drove Elizabeth, Kathy Tolles, and me to Peter Areson’s cabin where we ski in Bromley, Vermont. Kathy Tolles, Elizabeth and I went to Nova Scotia. Carol W had twin colts. We named the little one that she wouldn’t feed Zorba. Jerry Talberg gave us Rocky Bandelito (Dito), a tiny raccoon with a cyst. The family worked together to keep colt and raccoon alive, but both died. I worked at Dad’s office. Cy came home from Peace Corps. Cy, Ben Hatch from Peace Corps, Ben’s friend Rob Lord, Margo McCreary, Elizabeth and I drove across country camping. We drove an Oldsmobile Cutlass towing a 1937 Packard. Ben’s VW engine blew up in Colorado and Margo, Elizabeth, Cy and I camped and inner tubed on the South Platt River. We left Cy and Elizabeth at San Luis Obispo, California where Cy went to college and Elizabeth went to high school. Elizabeth fell in love with Mike Brisbane, house mate of Cy III’s. Gets the dog Wowbeko. In fall of my senior year Mom and I drove from Smith College to Maine where I taught Mom how to use a 35 mm camera. We stayed at a B & B. Cy moved to San Diego, CA to live with Toni Dolan. Willie build the shed and stall near the barn. Briefly dated Chuck from Williams (Betsy with ? Smith, Gail with Whit Worthan, and Karen O’Neil with Bill Capel.
1972 – Left home at end of December and went to Dartmouth with John. I was too tired and grumpy from exams to stay home. I liked Peter Areson, but he didn’t like me, so I began going out with Rick Greenberg, both fraternity brothers of John at Bones Gates. Skied at Dartmouth Ski Way and played squash. Drank too much and got shi’faced. Went skiing with Ann Worthington at Killington. Played beer pong. What a great game! Played Whale’s Tail and got shi’faced and had to keep one foot on floor so I wouldn’t be dizzy. Fell in love with Rick Greenberg but then not sure if I was in love. Diary entries talk about being in love and sex and laughter and drinking too much and travels back and forth to Smith and Dartmouth. Was able to ski by March. Studying hard at Smith. I took seminar on the novel and seminar on China. Took archeology course with Gail at U. Mass. Mary Lee got engaged to Mark. We had ice cream party. 1.21.72 Played rum 151 pong, fell, sprained ankle, and then on crutches for the next few months. Living on the fourth floor made it difficult at the dorm. Swim at Snites. Very cold. On Feb 24 Cy and Toni got engaged. Decided on April 6th that I would become a teacher. Betsy Dice set my hair and put make-up on me. Rick wanted to know if I was playing Indian chief. Students wanted to be on strike because of Vietnam war. I felt students could do exams, papers, and still protest war. Cy and Toni were married at Arrow Cottage. Some of the Vista volunteers were there and some of the Peace Corp kids. They exchanged Hawaiian leis and Grampa gave them shovel to plant tree in front lawn of Arrow Cottage. On May 28th I graduated from Smith. Mom, Dad, Rick, and John all come. Sad to be leaving so many good friends. Good together time despite rotten cold.
Came home and talked to folks at Hawken School and Case Western Reserve where I applied for the fall. Went to Dartmouth for Rick’s graduation; his whole family there. Went to Susie Hunter and Peter Thompson’s wedding in Williamstown. John dove into pool with wedding outfit on while carrying a beer. Great photo. I was a counselor at Alford Lake Camp in an upper lever tent. Did over night camping trips, Church in the Pines, loving to be outdoors. Taught riding and tennis and photography. Toni and Cy are expecting a baby. Driving to Deep Cove, stop to visit Blanche in Amherst and visit Jack and Monte Harris in Pugwash. Pick up Elizabeth at Halifax and then go to Antigonish. Got stoned by fire and skunk separated us from tent. Drove around the Cabot trail. Camped in wind tunnel and tent almost blew away. Visit Grampa. Uncle Fay there. We picnic on my island, play tennis, have fire. One night when I was mad, I went outside and then watched porcupine go up tree. Bob LeFevre and his family came. Lots of swimming, deep sea fishing, very foggy, caught 409 fish. Picnicked on Flat Island. Walk to Ben’s place with Grampa. Visited Blanche in Amherst, and stopped at Alford Lake Camp on way back.Brooke Carmichael broke John’s heart and married Dick Worcester. Cathy Morley spent summer at Arrow Cottage. Elizabeth graduated San Luis Obispo. She brought Wowbeeko home. Elizabeth and I camped with Rick Greenberg in Nova Scotia going around the Cabot Trail and staying with Grandpa. Cy opened the Fitter’s Shop. In the fall I started studying education at Case Western Reserve University and took a course with my mom in educational psychology. I volunteered at HBS and Hawken and was inspired by creative writing teacher Mrs. Nunlist (???). John and I both lived at Arrow with Mom and Dad.
1973 – First grandchild, Nathaniel Eaton, was born on January 29th. Grandpa celebrated his 90th birthday at Acadia with large family gathering. Elizabeth went to Alford Lake Camp. Dibbie Barrett and John Bellamy got married. Crazy New Year Eve’s party at Jerry Talberg’s at farm house at Acadia. Rode toboggan pulled by Russian stallions. Drink Ever Clear. Mom and Dad visited Cy and Toni in Cotati. I student taught at Cleveland Heights High School in spring and became an intern at St. Paul’s School in Concord, New Hampshire. I dated Rick Greenberg and we broke up but got back together after motorcycle accident with Jay Worthan. I bought a 1973 red Fiat station wagon and had brief crush on Bill Barney. I think this is the summer I studied photography at New England School of Photography in Boston and lived with friends of Rick Greenberg.
love with Rick Greenberg but then not sure if I was in love. Diary entries talk about being in love and sex and laughter and drinking too much and travels back and forth to Smith and Dartmouth. Was able to ski by March. Studying hard at Smith. I took seminar on the novel and seminar on China. Took archeology course with Gail at U. Mass. Mary Lee got engaged to Mark. We had ice cream party. 1.21.72 Played rum 151 pong, fell, sprained ankle, and then on crutches for the next few months. Living on the fourth floor made it difficult at the dorm. Swim at Snites. Very cold. On Feb 24 Cy and Toni got engaged. Decided on April 6th that I would become a teacher. Betsy Dice set my hair and put make-up on me. Rick wanted to know if I was playing Indian chief. Students wanted to be on strike because of Vietnam war. I felt students could do exams, papers, and still protest war. Cy and Toni were married at Arrow Cottage. Some of the Vista volunteers were there and some of the Peace Corp kids. They exchanged Hawaiian leis and Grampa gave them shovel to plant tree in front lawn of Arrow Cottage. On May 28th I graduated from Smith. Mom, Dad, Rick, and John all come. Sad to be leaving so many good friends. Good together time despite rotten cold.
Came home and talked to folks at Hawken School and Case Western Reserve where I applied for the fall. Went to Dartmouth for Rick’s graduation; his whole family there. Went to Susie Hunter and Peter Thompson’s wedding in Williamstown. John dove into pool with wedding outfit on while carrying a beer. Great photo. I was a counselor at Alford Lake Camp in an upper lever tent. Did over night camping trips, Church in the Pines, loving to be outdoors. Taught riding and tennis and photography. Toni and Cy are expecting a baby. Driving to Deep Cove, stop to visit Blanche in Amherst and visit Jack and Monte Harris in Pugwash. Pick up Elizabeth at Halifax and then go to Antigonish. Got stoned by fire and skunk separated us from tent. Drove around the Cabot trail. Camped in wind tunnel and tent almost blew away. Visit Grampa. Uncle Fay there. We picnic on my island, play tennis, have fire. One night when I was mad, I went outside and then watched porcupine go up tree. Bob LeFevre and his family came. Lots of swimming, deep sea fishing, very foggy, caught 409 fish. Picnicked on Flat Island. Walk to Ben’s place with Grampa. Visited Blanche in Amherst, and stopped at Alford Lake Camp on way back.Brooke Carmichael broke John’s heart and married Dick Worcester. Cathy Morley spent summer at Arrow Cottage. Elizabeth graduated San Luis Obispo. She brought Wowbeeko home. Elizabeth and I camped with Rick Greenberg in Nova Scotia going around the Cabot Trail and staying with Grandpa. Cy opened the Fitter’s Shop. In the fall I started studying education at Case Western Reserve University and took a course with my mom in educational psychology. I volunteered at HBS and Hawken and was inspired by creative writing teacher Mrs. Nunlist (???). John and I both lived at Arrow with Mom and Dad.
1973 – First grandchild, Nathaniel Eaton, was born on January 29th. Grandpa celebrated his 90th birthday at Acadia with large family gathering. Elizabeth went to Alford Lake Camp. Dibbie Barrett and John Bellamy got married. Crazy New Year Eve’s party at Jerry Talberg’s at farm house at Acadia. Rode toboggan pulled by Russian stallions. Drink Ever Clear. Mom and Dad visited Cy and Toni in Cotati. I student taught at Cleveland Heights High School in spring and became an intern at St. Paul’s School in Concord, New Hampshire. I dated Rick Greenberg and we broke up but got back together after motorcycle accident with Jay Worthan. I bought a 1973 red Fiat station wagon and had brief crush on Bill Barney. I think this is the summer I studied photography at New England School of Photography in Boston and lived with friends of Rick Greenberg.
1974 – Streaking was big. In August Richard Nixon was impeached. A horrible tornado in Louisville, Kentucky ripped off Aunt Helen and Uncle Moray’s roof and many of their trees. Mom and Dad went to Acapulco, Mexico as YPO (Young President’s Organization). Kurt Vonnegut spoke and wrote poem to each of us kids. DAFFODIL 11. Newt and Max Barrett married and John was again the best man. I got high school English job at Kingwood-Oxford in West Hartford, Connecticut, and lived with Barrie Silver on Prospect Street in Hartford. CT. Students streaked behind us when we were being introduced on stage. Maureen Hearn and sister Pat lived on 2nd floor and Elaine lived on 3rd floor. I also coached soccer. John was unemployed. I dated Rick Greenberg.
1961 – For $25 John and I bought, Mr. Chips, a Jack Russell Fox terrier from Jan Francis. Scamp (AKA Scootie) was the mother. The Tobins lived with us. Farley and I went to Pugwash for big Eaton family reunion. Dad shot a stag in Hungary. We put its antlers in chalet above fireplace. Its head and antlers were hung above the fireplace/grill in the Chalet, our pool house. We competed again at Madison Square Garden with Mr. Fox and Beau’s Cottage. I won the Pennsylvania Pony Cumulative point award and the sportsmanship award. Elizabeth made her First Communion. We went to the Greenbriar. John started playing the piccolo. Around this time Mom and Dad went to Acapulco, Mexican for the Young President’s Organization meeting. Kurt Vonnegut spoke and our family adopted Daffodil 11. Mom slipped a note under his hotel room door, and he wrote each of us a poem. Mine said “nice, nice, very nice,/cathy eaton,/so many different people/in the same device---)
1962 – Cy changed his name to Seth French, put PA license plates on his Chevy, took his 4-H money and ran away to Nashville, TN, where he enrolled in a highschool. Mr. Chips ran away and I got Heidi, (pup of Chips and Miggles). We went to Bermuda with David LeFevre. Bob and Chrissy LeFevre were married. WE competed in Harrisburg, PA. The door was removed in the library to the patio and from the living room to the front porch and Mom redid the dining room. We had Thanksgiving at the Chalet (our pool house). We acquired a pool table. Years later Beth Ferree sold the pool table for $25 at a tag sale; John and she got married anyway.
1963 – Cy drove across country (California or Bust sign on Chevy) and began living with Aunt Sue and Uncle Tim Morley and their five children in San Jose, CA, where he attended high school. John started Kent School, CT. Cy brought home Charlie, the tiny raccoon. Aunt Sissy died of an overdose. Cy broke arm. Kennedy was assassinated. It was announced at HBS carnival at the beginning of our 8th grade play. We skied on spring break at Stow, VT. We took train to California and stopped at Yosemite and Yellowstone National Park. We visited Uncle Bob and Aunt Barbara in Denver, CO, and the Morleys in San Jose. Newt came with us. We drove back. I believe I was 13 when we all left the church permanently. I felt one should either buy into the Catholic Church completed or not do it at all. I think Mom went to church because it meant so much to Granny.
1964 – We went to Nova Scotia with Barretts and Lib Wood, and Adele. Dad went into business with Mr. Carmichael, Uncle Fay Lefevre, and Bill McMillan. Dad had race horse Porch Swallow. Heidi had puppies and we kept Snoopy for Elizabeth. We turned Elizabeth’s bedroom into a huge closet for Mom, Elizabeth got upstairs bedroom, and I got Cy’s first floor bedroom, which Mom redid in yellows and greens. I won a first at Madison Square Garden with Flying Mouse, a pony owned by the Leisures. (sp) I went to Washington DC with my class and then flew out to Vail to ski with my family. Dave Watson and Clive Constant (sp) from England lived with us for several months. We spent New Year’s Eve with the Carmichael’s. Cy and Twink (Harmon) McBride worked in Calvary, Canada. They saw the big cattle stampede. Clive Constant and Dave from England lived with us for several months.
Some excerpts from my diary:
8.29.1964 Sewickly. Mouse – pony champion. 8.30. Ate dinner with the Barretts. 8.31. Found kittens. 9.1. Rode with hounds. Saw a brace (two foxes). Went to Granny’s for supper. Kilkee wouldn’t jump. Shopped with Granny and Eliz. Granny beat me at Russian Bank. 9.3. Rode on trails. I groomed Mr. Fox. Went swimming. Bowled. I got 127. 9.6. Rode at Troika Track. Brooke and I fell off. 9.9. Played tennis with Adele 6-0, 6-3. 9.12. Horse Show. Me pony champion, John junior champion. 9.14. Got field hockey stick. 11.20. HBS carnival went well. Went skating with Ann Worthington & sister. I’m not very good. 11.26. Thanksgiving with Barretts. 11.27. Dancing school! I wore white dress with black velvet toop and black stripes. Went to Subscription dance with Steve Furer and Dick Gascoin. Steve gave me corsage.We went to football game. Clive and Dave went to.
1965 –On January 2nd “I rode Leonka, Carmichaels spent the night, boys played poker. It snowed second time this winter. Elizabeth and I built a long fort. Twink McBride came over.” 1.29. went to slumber party at Ann Worthington’s. Took lots of pictures.” Dad and Mom went on a trip around the world and visited India and China. Elizabeth and I stayed at the HBS dorm for a month. I studied piano with Mr. Howard. Dad and Mom went to Kent School to visit John. I was on Citizenship Honor Roll. I went to dancing school. (Mrs. Ford’s; Mr. Clancy was instructor.) Julie North was assistant. We kept Cricket, a puppy of Heidi’s. Played ping pong with Adele. We held family reunion for Granny Stephens at Arrow Cottage: all her children and grandchildren. Frank and Keitt Wood were married. The pony Shorty stayed at Arrow and pulled little cart. From grooming him who rolled in poison ivy I had terrible case of poison ivy and was in charge of the all the grandchildren under 10. The photographer fell in pool. I got three shots for the poison ivy and went to dance at the Chagrin Valley Hunt Club. I wore a pink and white checked sleeveless dress and no one wanted to dance with me. Cy dated Lynn Gates in San Jose and she came to visit while Cy worked at Acadia with Jerry Talberg under Truman Kingsley. We skied at Sun Valley, Idaho. Swam in heated outdoor pool. I think Rachel and Polly Williams were there. Saw two eagles being trained like falcons. On way stopped in Chicago and Salt Lake City. Saw Mormon Temple and lake of salt. Clara Reece came to work for Dad. At Easter Mom gave me and Elizabeth Easter baskets. 5.31. “Off from school. Adele, Elizabeth, Sarah, and I played SPUD. Others went swimming. I had a cough. Granny stayed with us. Caught turtle, crayfish, toad, pollywogs in creek. We killed a three foot snake because it had a toad in its mourth. It was harmless. We’re murderers.” 6.3. Messed on composition on my English exam. I had to go to bathroom and almost wet my pants. “Elizabeth lectured me on popularity. She things I ought to go to parties and be popular (like she is). I guess I’m a social flop.” 6.4. “Cliff found painted turtle and gave him to us.”We kept the pony Shorty at Arrow. Socialized with Carmichaels. Showed at Great Barrington, Connecticut. The Hopsteddars came to visit. Hobbie went to Colgate with Dad, and Dottie went to Smith. Went to Nova Scotia with Barretts and Tobins. Picnicked at Houlihan Lanke. Strong current when swimming. Took long walk down cove. Played tennis. Went deep sea fishing. Prizes for first fish, biggest fish, littlest fish, ugliest fish. Climbed Mill Stream. Swam at dock. Swam at Grananne’s heated pool. Played cards. 8.8.65 Swam across cove. On way home flew over World’s Fair. Bob and Chris LeFevre used to come to pool. I think Bob had motorcycle and we picked up corn on the cob. Showed at Rolling Rock Horse Show in PA. On my 15th birthday I went off course on Gay Friar and Rodney Jenkins gave me pin, also a kiss, and told me he had gone off course lots of times. (Funny how often as an adult I dream about going off course.)
1966 – John graduated Kent School. It was the last year Dad did a family Christmas card. I studied French with Mr. Fred Harvy. My diary describes falls and which horses we rode. Uncle Charlie Eaton (US congressman from New Jersey) died. Cy collected coins. We went to Vail with the Porters and Chamberlains. John raced at the Henley crew regatta. Mom and Dad went to Rumania, Hungary, and Ireland. In February went to Lake Placid with Anne Knight and her family. Saw the luge run. Showed at Rolling Rock Horse Show in PA. I went to field hockey/lacrosse camp in Maine for a week in the summer with Ann Worthington, Peggy Allen, Adele Wick, and Jen Coppins. At Columbus Horse Show I fainted. Pam pony champion and Elizabeth reserve. I learned how to drive. Picked up Susan Barrett and we took typing at Cleveland Heights High School. Played chess and tennis with Adele. On my sixteenth birthday I got typewriter, book, sweater, and pierced earrings. 8.9. Got my ears pierced.The cake from Hough Bakery had car on it. At Grand Prix Horse Show, huge rains, and everyone went barefoot in the mud. Rodney got 2md, 3rd, 4th place. We spent Thanksgiving in Louisville. On December 5, I rode Flying Mouse for the last time at Acadia in front of a group of Russians. For Elizabeth’s birthday John and I bought her raccoon painted on wood. (Millie Murphy also loved this raccoon and we kept giving it to her and then a few months later she would return it to us.) On Elizabeth’s birthday she got bird, we played twister, and Pam made her a cake. Mom, Elizabeth and I went the musical Man of Le Mancha. Went to Rec League party. The LeFevres always came out on Christmas Eve, and the Barretts also came out on Christmas. Aunt Mary gave us great presents, like foos ball. Went tobogganing with the Kingsley kids. Truman Kingsley managed the cattle farm, and Mom helped Trumie learn to speak and read. Went to Hunt Club Dance with Peter Griesinger. On December 31 rode in the morning, went to Carmichael’s, then went out with Peter Grisienger. Buffet, tsister, tobogganing, & surfing. All fell off the toboggan. Home 2:45 AM.
1967 – On January 1st I rode Carol W. We did pairs over cavaleties.John went to Wellington College in England on the English Speaking Union Exchange program. We traveled to Greece, Italy, and Egypt. Elizabeth went to Alford Lake Camp in Union, Maine. Mom retired temporarily from Hawken School. I had two bad falls on Carol W, the last one at the finals AHSA in Michigan, which was the last time I competed. John went to the Dublin Horse Show with Kent girls. WE went to Expo ‘67 in Montreal. I raised bees in glass observation hive for biology project with Jen Coppins. Mom and Dad traveled to Cyprus. Uncle Mac was ordained. New Year’s Eve party with the Carmichael’s. John went to Bachelor’s Ball. Kent ESU exchange guy Mike Austin stayed during Christmas and went to senior dance with me while John went with Adele, and Newt went with Page. Mike kissed Elizabeth under the mistletoe. I went to Lib Wood’s coming out party in Louisville. We kept the pool open in winter with tarp over it. I painted in oil the infamous self portrait that Dad took photos trying to get me to look like the painting. We grew huge pumpkins. I dated Peter Tolles. I flew to California with Dad and got sick on the plane.
1968 – I graduated from Hathaway Brown School and won the Raymond Short Story prize and an honorable mention from Atlantic Monthly. We went to Ellicottville with the Trigg family. I visited the Butterfields (The Glades?) and was a junior/senior CT at Alford Lake Camp while Elizabeth was a camper and performed in Arsenic and Old Lace. Cy was a Vista Volunteer in West Virginia. All the volunteers came to Arrow Cottage for Thanksgiving. We went to David Hume’s wedding in NYC. We skied at Vail. John competed at Henley. Miss Anne Cutter Coburn retired from being headmistress at HBS for 30 years. Bruce Barker came to visit from Dartmouth. John had a blue VW Square Back and Cy had a motorcycle. I went to Smith College. Mom drove me out. I was presented at the Assembly Ball and was featured debutant in Vanity Fair. Pam Carmichael had the first and second junior horses in the country. (Lancelot and Chance Step) We dug up the pool pipes. ESCHEW OBFUSCATION present from Mom. Cy had the dog Vista. We watched John compete in Crew at the Eastern Sprints. I went to amusement park with Elizabeth and Chase Anderson. Elizabeth bought Linda Trigg’s motorbike. Dad, Mom, and Elizabeth came up to visit at Smith. Went to New York to visit Aunt Dibbie and go to Madison Square Garden. After getting haircut, I had to carry very heavy suitcase (that Mom had when she was at Smith) and bus driver left me because I didn’t know if I paid before I got on the bus or after. Pam Carmichael was champion. Ate with Ray and Jan Frances. Saw the Tobins. Built snow woman with Nancy Ammon and Jeannie Howard. Vista crew came for Thanksgiving.. Met Mike Curran at mixer; he had returned from Vietnam. Went to party celebrating U. Mass student avoiding draft.
1969 – I went to Australia (New Zealand and Figi) with 11 Americans in the Experiment in International Living and lived in Leeton, New South Wales with Hazel and Frank Collins and their children Kevin, Jeff, Jennifer and Denise. I fell in love with Keith Waters and broke up with Peter Tolles who was serving in Vietnam. Keith gave me a ring which I lost in a snowball fight. Cy went to The Gambia, West Africa as a Peace Corp Volunteer. Dad and Elizabeth bought two Western horses (Lady and Tylaro.) We went to Aspen. I used to quit skiing at noon. Turned out I had Mono. Newt and Sandy Barrett got married. Mom went to her 25th reunion at Smith College. Ili Nastase and Eon Tiriac competed with the Rumanian Tennis Team in Cleveland and came to Arrow Cottage. Heidi and Snoopy had 5 puppies. Adele kept Martha, the all white spotted dog. Mom bought the oval mahogany dining room table. We got Hector. Went to ski at Ellicottville with the Triggs. Adele, Ann Knight, and Missy Marshall came to Nova Scotia with me. Grampa invited me to his house and asked me to return to Smith and organize draft resisters.
1970 – Elizabeth and I went with Mom and Dad to London, England, visited Cy in The Gambia, West Africa (also Canary Island, Dakar, Bathurst), Istanbul, Turkey, Budapest, Hungary, Bucharest, Rumania for the opening of the Hotel Duna. John coxed an eight boat in Henley, England. Colleges went on strike against the Vietnam War. I applied to ten college exchange so I could study anthropology and sociology in Gambia, but I only made first on the waiting list. Subsequently I changed my major to English.
1971 -- Went to St. Catherine, Ontario to watch John in pair with cox in the World Championship for Crew. He was 10th out of 17 boats at Ridley College. The oarsmen were Paul Wilson and Bob Arlett. John graduated from Dartmouth. Mom couldn’t attend because she had high fever and went to hospital. Elizabeth and I accompanied Grandpa, David and Jill Lefevre, Norm Cominski and his wife to Santiago, Chile where Grandpa met with President Allende, who was later assassinated. We went to ocean. Over spring vacation Mom drove Elizabeth, Kathy Tolles, and me to Peter Areson’s cabin where we ski in Bromley, Vermont. Kathy Tolles, Elizabeth and I went to Nova Scotia. Carol W had twin colts. We named the little one that she wouldn’t feed Zorba. Jerry Talberg gave us Rocky Bandelito (Dito), a tiny raccoon with a cyst. The family worked together to keep colt and raccoon alive, but both died. I worked at Dad’s office. Cy came home from Peace Corps. Cy, Ben Hatch from Peace Corps, Ben’s friend Rob Lord, Margo McCreary, Elizabeth and I drove across country camping. We drove an Oldsmobile Cutlass towing a 1937 Packard. Ben’s VW engine blew up in Colorado and Margo, Elizabeth, Cy and I camped and inner tubed on the South Platt River. We left Cy and Elizabeth at San Luis Obispo, California where Cy went to college and Elizabeth went to high school. Elizabeth fell in love with Mike Brisbane, house mate of Cy III’s. Gets the dog Wowbeko. In fall of my senior year Mom and I drove from Smith College to Maine where I taught Mom how to use a 35 mm camera. We stayed at a B & B. Cy moved to San Diego, CA to live with Toni Dolan. Willie build the shed and stall near the barn. Briefly dated Chuck from Williams (Betsy with ? Smith, Gail with Whit Worthan, and Karen O’Neil with Bill Capel.
1972 – Left home at end of December and went to Dartmouth with John. I was too tired and grumpy from exams to stay home. I liked Peter Areson, but he didn’t like me, so I began going out with Rick Greenberg, both fraternity brothers of John at Bones Gates. Skied at Dartmouth Ski Way and played squash. Drank too much and got shi’faced. Went skiing with Ann Worthington at Killington. Played beer pong. What a great game! Played Whale’s Tail and got shi’faced and had to keep one foot on floor so I wouldn’t be dizzy. Fell in love with Rick Greenberg but then not sure if I was in love. Diary entries talk about being in love and sex and laughter and drinking too much and travels back and forth to Smith and Dartmouth. Was able to ski by March. Studying hard at Smith. I took seminar on the novel and seminar on China. Took archeology course with Gail at U. Mass. Mary Lee got engaged to Mark. We had ice cream party. 1.21.72 Played rum 151 pong, fell, sprained ankle, and then on crutches for the next few months. Living on the fourth floor made it difficult at the dorm. Swim at Snites. Very cold. On Feb 24 Cy and Toni got engaged. Decided on April 6th that I would become a teacher. Betsy Dice set my hair and put make-up on me. Rick wanted to know if I was playing Indian chief. Students wanted to be on strike because of Vietnam war. I felt students could do exams, papers, and still protest war. Cy and Toni were married at Arrow Cottage. Some of the Vista volunteers were there and some of the Peace Corp kids. They exchanged Hawaiian leis and Grampa gave them shovel to plant tree in front lawn of Arrow Cottage. On May 28th I graduated from Smith. Mom, Dad, Rick, and John all come. Sad to be leaving so many good friends. Good together time despite rotten cold.
Came home and talked to folks at Hawken School and Case Western Reserve where I applied for the fall. Went to Dartmouth for Rick’s graduation; his whole family there. Went to Susie Hunter and Peter Thompson’s wedding in Williamstown. John dove into pool with wedding outfit on while carrying a beer. Great photo. I was a counselor at Alford Lake Camp in an upper lever tent. Did over night camping trips, Church in the Pines, loving to be outdoors. Taught riding and tennis and photography. Toni and Cy are expecting a baby. Driving to Deep Cove, stop to visit Blanche in Amherst and visit Jack and Monte Harris in Pugwash. Pick up Elizabeth at Halifax and then go to Antigonish. Got stoned by fire and skunk separated us from tent. Drove around the Cabot trail. Camped in wind tunnel and tent almost blew away. Visit Grampa. Uncle Fay there. We picnic on my island, play tennis, have fire. One night when I was mad, I went outside and then watched porcupine go up tree. Bob LeFevre and his family came. Lots of swimming, deep sea fishing, very foggy, caught 409 fish. Picnicked on Flat Island. Walk to Ben’s place with Grampa. Visited Blanche in Amherst, and stopped at Alford Lake Camp on way back.Brooke Carmichael broke John’s heart and married Dick Worcester. Cathy Morley spent summer at Arrow Cottage. Elizabeth graduated San Luis Obispo. She brought Wowbeeko home. Elizabeth and I camped with Rick Greenberg in Nova Scotia going around the Cabot Trail and staying with Grandpa. Cy opened the Fitter’s Shop. In the fall I started studying education at Case Western Reserve University and took a course with my mom in educational psychology. I volunteered at HBS and Hawken and was inspired by creative writing teacher Mrs. Nunlist (???). John and I both lived at Arrow with Mom and Dad.
1973 – First grandchild, Nathaniel Eaton, was born on January 29th. Grandpa celebrated his 90th birthday at Acadia with large family gathering. Elizabeth went to Alford Lake Camp. Dibbie Barrett and John Bellamy got married. Crazy New Year Eve’s party at Jerry Talberg’s at farm house at Acadia. Rode toboggan pulled by Russian stallions. Drink Ever Clear. Mom and Dad visited Cy and Toni in Cotati. I student taught at Cleveland Heights High School in spring and became an intern at St. Paul’s School in Concord, New Hampshire. I dated Rick Greenberg and we broke up but got back together after motorcycle accident with Jay Worthan. I bought a 1973 red Fiat station wagon and had brief crush on Bill Barney. I think this is the summer I studied photography at New England School of Photography in Boston and lived with friends of Rick Greenberg.
love with Rick Greenberg but then not sure if I was in love. Diary entries talk about being in love and sex and laughter and drinking too much and travels back and forth to Smith and Dartmouth. Was able to ski by March. Studying hard at Smith. I took seminar on the novel and seminar on China. Took archeology course with Gail at U. Mass. Mary Lee got engaged to Mark. We had ice cream party. 1.21.72 Played rum 151 pong, fell, sprained ankle, and then on crutches for the next few months. Living on the fourth floor made it difficult at the dorm. Swim at Snites. Very cold. On Feb 24 Cy and Toni got engaged. Decided on April 6th that I would become a teacher. Betsy Dice set my hair and put make-up on me. Rick wanted to know if I was playing Indian chief. Students wanted to be on strike because of Vietnam war. I felt students could do exams, papers, and still protest war. Cy and Toni were married at Arrow Cottage. Some of the Vista volunteers were there and some of the Peace Corp kids. They exchanged Hawaiian leis and Grampa gave them shovel to plant tree in front lawn of Arrow Cottage. On May 28th I graduated from Smith. Mom, Dad, Rick, and John all come. Sad to be leaving so many good friends. Good together time despite rotten cold.
Came home and talked to folks at Hawken School and Case Western Reserve where I applied for the fall. Went to Dartmouth for Rick’s graduation; his whole family there. Went to Susie Hunter and Peter Thompson’s wedding in Williamstown. John dove into pool with wedding outfit on while carrying a beer. Great photo. I was a counselor at Alford Lake Camp in an upper lever tent. Did over night camping trips, Church in the Pines, loving to be outdoors. Taught riding and tennis and photography. Toni and Cy are expecting a baby. Driving to Deep Cove, stop to visit Blanche in Amherst and visit Jack and Monte Harris in Pugwash. Pick up Elizabeth at Halifax and then go to Antigonish. Got stoned by fire and skunk separated us from tent. Drove around the Cabot trail. Camped in wind tunnel and tent almost blew away. Visit Grampa. Uncle Fay there. We picnic on my island, play tennis, have fire. One night when I was mad, I went outside and then watched porcupine go up tree. Bob LeFevre and his family came. Lots of swimming, deep sea fishing, very foggy, caught 409 fish. Picnicked on Flat Island. Walk to Ben’s place with Grampa. Visited Blanche in Amherst, and stopped at Alford Lake Camp on way back.Brooke Carmichael broke John’s heart and married Dick Worcester. Cathy Morley spent summer at Arrow Cottage. Elizabeth graduated San Luis Obispo. She brought Wowbeeko home. Elizabeth and I camped with Rick Greenberg in Nova Scotia going around the Cabot Trail and staying with Grandpa. Cy opened the Fitter’s Shop. In the fall I started studying education at Case Western Reserve University and took a course with my mom in educational psychology. I volunteered at HBS and Hawken and was inspired by creative writing teacher Mrs. Nunlist (???). John and I both lived at Arrow with Mom and Dad.
1973 – First grandchild, Nathaniel Eaton, was born on January 29th. Grandpa celebrated his 90th birthday at Acadia with large family gathering. Elizabeth went to Alford Lake Camp. Dibbie Barrett and John Bellamy got married. Crazy New Year Eve’s party at Jerry Talberg’s at farm house at Acadia. Rode toboggan pulled by Russian stallions. Drink Ever Clear. Mom and Dad visited Cy and Toni in Cotati. I student taught at Cleveland Heights High School in spring and became an intern at St. Paul’s School in Concord, New Hampshire. I dated Rick Greenberg and we broke up but got back together after motorcycle accident with Jay Worthan. I bought a 1973 red Fiat station wagon and had brief crush on Bill Barney. I think this is the summer I studied photography at New England School of Photography in Boston and lived with friends of Rick Greenberg.
1974 – Streaking was big. In August Richard Nixon was impeached. A horrible tornado in Louisville, Kentucky ripped off Aunt Helen and Uncle Moray’s roof and many of their trees. Mom and Dad went to Acapulco, Mexico as YPO (Young President’s Organization). Kurt Vonnegut spoke and wrote poem to each of us kids. DAFFODIL 11. Newt and Max Barrett married and John was again the best man. I got high school English job at Kingwood-Oxford in West Hartford, Connecticut, and lived with Barrie Silver on Prospect Street in Hartford. CT. Students streaked behind us when we were being introduced on stage. Maureen Hearn and sister Pat lived on 2nd floor and Elaine lived on 3rd floor. I also coached soccer. John was unemployed. I dated Rick Greenberg.