Julia's younger sister was drowned in a boating accident. Thus, by the time her father died in 1872, Julia Dinsmore had lost all of her immediate family and was left with two nieces to raise and a mediocre farm to manage. The work was rough and hired help often tried to cheat her. She was discouraged often in those early years alone. Her journal of 54 years revealed her various moods.
Sept. 23, 1873
Came home more discouraged than usual and rode along in the dark and mud crying.