Call Number:

MC.975.01.090

Repository:

Haverford College Quaker & Special Collections

Extent:

0.29 linear ft. (2 volumes)

Language:

English

Preferred Citation:

Ann Cooper Whitall diary (HC.MC.975.01.090), Quaker & Special Collections, Haverford College, Haverford, PA.

Date:

1760-1780 (inclusive) and 1760-1762 (bulk)

Creator:

Whitall, Ann Cooper

Form:

Diaries

Abstract:

Ann Cooper Whitall's diary entries focus on descriptions of Quaker meetings, illnesses within her family and community, reflections on religion and the perceived failure of Whitall's community to live up to its ideals, and discussions concerning effective child-rearing practices.

Ann Cooper Whitall (1716-1797) was a Quaker who lived in Red Bank, New Jersey. Born 4th month 23, 1716, Whitall was the daughter of John and Ann (Clarke) Cooper. Whitall married James Whitall 9th month 23rd, 1739. Ann Cooper Whitall's home was located on the edge of Fort Mercer, and during the American Revolution, Whitall refused to leave the home despite the danger. After the Battle of the Red Bank in 1777, Whitall treated both American and Hessian injured soldiers from within her home. Ann Cooper Whitall and James Whitall had nine children.

This collection is comprised of the original, handwritten, unbound diary of Ann Cooper Whitall, as well as a single volume typed transcript of the diary. Whitall's diary was transcribed by Michael C. Osborne in 1976. The majority of diary entries were written between 1760 and 1762, however there are entries dated as late as 1780. Entries focus on descriptions of Quaker meetings, illnesses within Whitall's family and community, reflections on religion and the perceived failure of Whitall's community to live up to its ideals, and discussions concerning effective child-rearing practices.