Journey Day by Day
~ Summer 1852 ~

The Isthmus in sight – ridge after ridge of mountains, running from north to south, enveloped in vapor.  About two o’clock the ship was secured to the wharf. A Mr. Butler and lady offered us their assistance and company across the Isthmus. A Mr. [...]

Early in the morning without a mouthful to eat, we had to hurry to the cars, which reminded us of home. These cars were made in Jersey and they were more commodious than any of the same kind in the States. They traveled at [...]

A delightful morning, the boat ranging from one side of the Chagres river to the other – we got through the rapids safely.  On either side of the river magnificent trees towering on high and covered with a charming green foliage: here and there [...]

We breakfasted early, and prepared to mount our mules, which were not as good as those previously hired by Mr. Peck. . . We soon learned that we had to ride men’s saddles, which we mounted reluctantly, with hearts almost sunken within us. Poor [...]

We could procure no bread this morning – our only refreshment was some hot coffee.  We then mounted our mules, and proceeded to Panama, a journey of seven miles. Sister M. Sebastian had not gone far, when her mule fell in a very swampy [...]

Dear Sister Honorine died about nine o’clock. Two of the soldiers, who assisted in carrying her to Panama died a short time before her. The American gentlemen were very kind in offering their services. About eleven o’clock the coffin came in which our dear [...]

Sister M. Ignatia remained in bed, saying she felt fatigued. Pretty soon she commenced to throw off phlegm and wind from her stomach.  . . .she grew considerably worse. At night she was taken with slight cramps; we rubbed her with mustard, and put [...]

About two o’clock, Sister Frances got up to learn how dear Sister M. Ignatia was doing and found her in a dying state.  She immediately informed the other Sisters of it, who arose quickly and read the departing prayers for her.  Sister M. Ignatia [...]

A warm, dry and pleasant morning. We went early to the Church to Confession, assisted at the Holy Mass, and received Holy Communion in the little chapel of the Blessed Virgin. The chapel was about fifteen feet square, and contained a magnificent picture of [...]

A delightful morning. We assisted at Mass at the Church of Santa Anna. They celebrated the day being the feast of the Patron. . .

This morning we heard that there was no certainty as to the time of the sailing of the Golden Gate.  Dear Sister Frances had a chill the night previous which considerably depressed our spirits; moreover, not a single one of us was well.  Several [...]

During the past week all the Sisters were very sick, some home-sick, others suffering from chills and fever.  All are somewhat better in health and spirits this morning, as we have been informed that the Golden Gate will sail in the afternoon and that [...]