Thursday.28. January.1841.
Clear again, mild, and bright sun.shine. I could not get out, altho! feel the want of outdoor exercise sadly. Dr A. prescribed oil for the children. I gave them each a dose. Removed Julie, up in my room, her head much affected, had fire built and sat by her all day. Nancy, took Louis under her charge, while Bridget had her hands full with Remsen. My time spent going from one room to the other. Henry paid a long visit. Maria, came in, staid [sic] to dinner on Hash….
Garret had a very long beard, and was up to his eyes in dirt and business, finishing his “Account job”. He slept in the front room, to oblige Julie, and took a fresh cold.
Sure seems like these folks are sick all the time!
I agree, and not just this family. During the early to mid-19th century, people didn’t know how many diseases spread, so many became infected. And to makes things even worse, the remedies they took could make them even sicker.