We continue this month’s series of diary entries from Isabella Wunderly Campbell, who became Wyoming’s first lady in 1872. Isabella was a 19 year old living in Washington, D.C., during the eventful April of 1865. Her daily diary entries give insight into her experiences during the final days of the Civil War, which ended 150 years ago this month.
April 12, 1865
(WSA Isabella C. Wunderly diary, Campbell Collection, C-1049)
Wednesday, April 12, 1865
It has been dull and rainy all day. Mad several ineffectual efforts to clear but it still rains. I expected to go to the Hospital but Alice was not well and we postponed the visit. The citizens are generally preparing quite extensively for a grand illumination tomorrow evening. I trust nothing may occur to mar the anticipated pleasure. I went to see Mrs. Smith but made no other calls save a moment to see Mary Peck. She was not looking very well. A little thin I think. Judge [Peck] is growing better very rapidly. I am truly glad to see it.
Wyoming Postscripts 