Week 46 & 47: 13th November 1960 – 26th November 1960

Here’s what was going on in the world these two weeks in 1960

• A fire at a movie theatre in the Kurdish village of Amuda, Syria, killed 152 children who had been watching an “educational film”. Some sources claimed that the fire had been set by Syrian security forces.
• African-American singer and actor Sammy Davis, Jr. married white Swedish actress May Britt at a time when interracial marriage was uncommon, and, in some states, illegal. The resulting fallout would effectively end Britt’s film career.
• Four 6-year old black girls, “first of their race to attend white public schools in New Orleans since the days of the Reconstruction”, were enrolled at two elementary schools in the area. Ruby Bridges, protected by U.S. Marshals, was the lone African-American child to enroll at the William Frantz Elementary School, and her first day was depicted by artist Norman Rockwell in a famous painting, The Problem We All Live With. The other three students enrolled at McDonough Elementary.
• The submarine USS George Washington, armed with 16 nuclear Polaris nuclear missiles, sailed from the harbour of Charleston, South Carolina, following an undisclosed route. President Eisenhower praised history’s first mobile nuclear missile base, noting that the Polaris firing submarines “possess a power and relative invulnerability which will make suicidal any attempt by an aggressor to attack the free world by surprise”.
• American film star Clark Gable died of a heart attack, aged 59, a few days after completing his last film, The Misfits
• British television and radio presenter, Jonathan Ross was born in London.
• The Hawker Siddeley P.1127, the first V/STOL (vertical/short take-off and landing) military jet aircraft made its first untethered flight. Test pilot Bill Bedford lifted, hovered, and landed the jet at the Royal Aircraft Establishment ground at Thurleigh, Bedfordshire. The production version of the P.1127 was the Harrier.
• United Nations troops clashed with the Congolese Army, for the first time since the Congo crisis had begun. Soldiers were ordered by Colonel Joseph Mobutu to seize a diplomat at Ghana’s embassy in Leopoldville. A force of 150 U.N. troops from Tunisia, supplementing Ghanaian embassy guards, fought for three hours in defending the embassy before the government troops withdrew.
• The USS Ethan Allen, at 410 feet in length the largest Polaris submarine in the U.S. Navy fleet, was launched from the yards at Groton, Connecticut. Not yet equipped with missiles, the submarine would be able to fire nuclear weapons a distance of 1,500 miles. On May 6, 1962, the Ethan Allen would make the only submarine launch of a live nuclear warhead, conducting an atmospheric hydrogen bomb test at a site 1,000 miles away.

And here’s what was keeping Peggy busy:

Sunday 13th November 1960
Dick & Phyllis to tea.
Not a bad morning – but it went very cold about 3pm. I took Philip & Gillian out first – Cyril followed on & took Gillian to collect Dick & Phyllis – we’ve had a very pleasant afternoon & evening. They left just before 10pm – children very good all day.

Monday 14th November 1960
I’m appalled at the thought of Christmas being so near – & nothing yet done! Shall have to start on the puddings this week – & the cake next. It’s been a very fine day – dried most of the wash.

Tuesday 15th November 1960
Miserable day – me I mean – the weather was lovely this morning but I’m in the dumps! Cyril has a cold & he’s in the dumps too! – he went to bed at 630 last night. Gillian got so muddy this morning I had to strip her.

Wednesday 16th November 1960
Another fine day – we’ve been to the clinic – only to get some advice about Gillian’s sore “tinky-winky”. Philip cried bitterly when we left him outside. Letter from Mur – but none yet for Cyril from the other fellows Insurance ?Coy.

Thursday 17th November 1960
Its been a filthy day & we haven’t been out at all. Cyril has been to Woolwich & had lunch with Mum & Doris. Philip has had the miseries most of the afternoon. Edna & Denis have another daughter Valerie Anne – born on ?12th.

Friday 18th November 1960
I’ve started – made the puddings this morning – at least started them with Gillian’s help!! It rained all morning but cleared up & we’ve been to the village this afternoon – and collected the key of the garage. Children have been very good.

Jack Warner, TV’s Dixon of Dock Green

Saturday 19th November 1960
Oxshott Xmas fair
It was a lovely morning – Cyril went into Leatherhead & when he came home I went to the Christmas Fair – it was such a crush – Jack Warner opened it. I only stayed half an hour and didn’t spend any money – everything was too expensive – we went again this afternoon for a short while – so that Gillian could see Father Christmas.
Have made the Xmas puds.

Sunday 20th November 1960
Another dirty day – we haven’t been out. Cyril seems to have developed another cold without having shaken off the first! Philip played up this evening & just wouldn’t settle. I had to nurse him to sleep.

Monday 21st November 1960
A miserable wet Monday – but I’ve dried & ironed all the washing. Philip didn’t sleep long this morning – & was very tired tonight. Not too tired to have another yelling session though. Only walked as far as Browns this afternoon. Letter from Joan.

Tuesday 22nd November 1960
I’ve been having an awful pain in my right leg – Cyril says its sciatica! I thought that was a complaint you had in your very old age!!! Cyril has gone to Moorfields tonight for a further eye examination. I do hope all is well for him.

Wednesday 23rd November 1960
Fine afternoon after a wet morning. We’ve been out to the Clinic. Cyril was given a clean bill of health at the Eye Hospital last night. He was home before 7.30.
BOTH SLEPT ALL NIGHT!!!

Thursday 24th November 1960
A filthy day. Gillian wet the bed last night so I’ve had a sheet wash! Philip not very happy – we’ve been out for a short walk in the puddles!! No letters.
Up 5 times in the night!

Friday 25th November 1960
In an effort to raise some cash for Christmas I’ve surrendered my small policy today – it wasn’t worth keeping anyway!! But don’t know if I’ll get the cash for Xmas as the collection says it takes a month! Pouring most of the day. Up 4 times in the night.

Saturday 26th November 1960
I’m feeling miserable again today & everything seems to be getting me down – its the continual sameness of every day. I suppose “All work & no play”. Cyril has put in a dozen bush rose in the front & I’ve made the Christmas cake. Took the children for a short walk.

Week 45: 6th November 1960 – 12th November 1960

Here’s what was going on in the world this week in 1960

• One person was killed and 18 injured by a bomb that had been placed inside a subway car in New York City. The bomb was the fifth to have exploded in New York on a Sunday since October 2, and the first to have taken a life. The five bombings injured a total of 58 people, including the fatal injury to Sandra Breland, a 15-year-old Brooklyn resident.
• In the U.S. presidential election, a record number of American voters turned out to make their choice between Democratic candidate and U. S. Senator John F. Kennedy and Republican candidate and U. S. Vice President Richard M. Nixon. With 270 electoral votes needed to win, Kennedy received 303. The popular vote was the closest in history. Kennedy (34,220,984) won slightly more than Nixon (34,108,157) by a margin of 1/6 of one percent of the total votes cast. The day after the election, Vice President Nixon conceded defeat to Senator Kennedy following the news that Kennedy had won Minnesota’s 11 electoral votes. With 270 needed to win, victory in Minnesota took Kennedy to at least 272.
• RMS Britannic, the last of the ocean liners of the White Star Line, sailed from Liverpool to New York City on its last voyage. Operated by Cunard Line since 1934, the Britannic was sold for scrap three weeks later.
• Construction of the first Soviet nuclear submarine, the K-19, was completed, three days before the first American nuclear sub (the USS George Washington) would set to sea with nuclear weapons. The K-19, which would receive its nuclear arsenal later, was the first of the eight “Hotel class” nuclear-powered subs.
• The uncensored, Penguin Books edition of Lady Chatterley’s Lover went on sale in England and Wales, eight days after a London jury had concluded that it was not obscene, and became an instant bestseller.
• Elvis Presley’s, ‘It’s Now Or Never’ was UK No. 1 single.

And here’s what was keeping Peggy busy:

Sunday 6th November 1960
Had quite a good night with the children last night – but my back was giving me “sticks”!!! We’ve been out for a run this afternoon called on Dick & Phyllis for half an hour. Wretched car wouldn’t start.

Monday 7th November 1960
Cold but fine & sunny – the children have been out most of the day – garden this morning & in the woods this afternoon. Should think they would sleep tonight. Car in garage for completion of repairs.

Tuesday 8th November 1960
Not so good today – the sun has only been out for a very brief spell this afternoon – cold & misty. No washing dried. We’ve had a walk to the village – no letter from Joan yet this week.

Wednesday 9th November 1960
Cold & damp again – but Philip was able to sleep out. Have been for a short walk. Didn’t go to the clinic this week Mrs. Roberts brought me in some marmite & stayed for a cup of coffee.
Cyril brought the car home but it needs a new battery.

Thursday 10th November 1960
Dreadful night with the two! Pouring when we got up but it cleared enough for us to be able to go to the village – got caught in a storm though. Gillian in a mood today! Bought Philip a hat.

Friday 11th November 1960
Good drying day – T.G. as I’ve had a big wash. Cyrils new battery arrived this morning so I won’t be pushing the car anymore! We’ve been for a short walk & I’m now going to give Gillian a shampoo.

Saturday 12th November 1960
I’m feeling properly browned off & in the dumps tonight – its the “sameness” of every day which is depressing me. Saturday – rapidly becoming as every other day – a day of washing ironing cooking & cleaning! Gillian has been naughty too – & had to go to bed early – she was in soon after 5.30 – & before Philip!
Gillian had the best nights sleep for ages – didn’t wake until 7am. Philip slept after one am.

Week 44: 29th October 1960 – 5th November 1960

Here’s what was going on in the world this fortnight in 1960

• Michael Woodruff performed the first successful kidney transplantation in the United Kingdom, at the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. Transplants had been performed in the United States and in France since 1954.
• A cyclone more powerful than the one that hit East Pakistan in October swept across the entire area that would later become Bangladesh, killing at least 10,000 people. The entire island of Kutubdia was submerged under 10 Metres of water.
• Prime Minister Macmillan of the United Kingdom announced that American nuclear submarines would be based at the Holy Loch, on the Firth of Clyde at Scotland.
• A jury in London concluded that Penguin Books had not broken Britain’s Obscene Publications Act, clearing the way for the sale, in the United Kingdom, of 200,000 paperback copies of D H Lawrence’s Lady Chatterley’s Lover.
• Filming of The Misfits, starring Clark Gable and Marilyn Monroe, was finished. It proved to be the last film for both legendary actors. Gable, who had performed many of his own stunts, had a heart attack the next day and died on November 16.
• As John F. Kennedy arrived at the Chicago Stadium for a pre-election rally, Jaime Cruz Alejandro forced his way through the crowd to get as close as he could to Kennedy’s open convertible, then fought with police after running from them. He was found to be carrying a loaded .25 caliber pistol. Moments later, Reverend Israel Dabney was caught attempting to carry a .38 revolver into the coliseum. Both men said that they were carrying the weapons for self-defense and were later released.

And here’s what was keeping Peggy busy:

Sunday 30th October 1960
Cyril cleaned the car this morning – hence the rain at tea time! We’ve been out for a run as Cyril wanted to give the Battery a chance to charge – he’s having starting trouble & I’m having to give him a push. Gillian seems a bit off colour.

Monday 31st October 1960
I have a nasty feeling Gillian is sickening for mumps – there’s quite a lot of it about. Sunny this afternoon so we’ve been out early for a quick walk. Have dried part of the washing. Letter from Joan.

Tuesday 1st November 1960
Gillian seems better today – she has eaten all her all her meals for the first time for several days. It’s stormy again but we dodged them & I had a quick trip to the village – to draw my F.A! (Family Allowance) – which I need!!! Had the back plate of the cooker repaired today.

Wednesday 2nd November 1960
Very rough with gale force winds today so we haven’t been out. Gillian had a couple of coughing spells during the night. Philip had us up again – he really is troublesome at night & is very miserable this afternoon. The room is like a shambles at the moment with all their toys about. Roll on 5.30!

Thursday 3rd November 1960
We had another night of it last night with Phil so I took them both to the Doc this am – he’s increased Philip’s Benadryl (sedative) so maybe he will sleep tonight. Got soaked on the way home – haven’t been out this pm – also got a tonic for Gillian.

Friday 4th November 1960
Wet start to the day but it has cleared up & we’ve been out for a short walk – have dried most of the washing – ready for ironing tonight. 3.30 & I’m going to put Gillian in the bath. Better night with Phil last night. T.G.

Saturday 5th November 1960
Cyril’s been to the Bank while I prepared an early-ish! lunch. We left for Welling at 1.30 & had a pleasant afternoon with Doris & Will & Mum. Doris wasn’t looking too well but Mum seemed fit enough. Gillian collected more birthday presents – lucky girl.
We left without the childrens medicine so had to go back all round the houses. Gillian & Philip slept all the way home. We were later than usual getting in.

Week 43: 23rd October 1960 – 29th October 1960

Here’s what was going on in the world this fortnight in 1960

• In the Nedelin catastrophe, an R-16 ballistic missile exploded on the launch pad at the Soviet Union’s Baikonur Cosmodrome space facility, killing over 100 observers, including Field Marshal Mitrofan Nedelin, who had ordered repairs to be made without allowing the fuel to be removed. The disaster was kept secret at the time, and not confirmed until 1989. Field Marshal Nedelin’s death was reported at the time as having occurred in a plane crash.
• The first fully electronic wristwatch, the Accutron 214, was unveiled by the Bulova Watch Company, along with the tiny watch battery to power it. Promoting the watch as the “First instrument of the space age you can wear and use!”, Bulova added “It doesn’t even tick … it hums!” The watch itself went on sale in US jewellery stores on November 24, 1960 with the least expensive, stainless steel model retailing for $175.
• Madalyn Murray O’Hair (at the time, Madalyn Murray) and her son William, first attracted national attention, as her protest against Bible reading in the Baltimore public schools continued. She told the Associated Press that she was “prepared to fight the case to the Supreme Court”. In 1963, the United States Supreme Court would agree with her that religious services in public school were unconstitutional.
• Three American surgeons from the University of Vermont became the first persons to describe a new development in medicine; microvascular surgery or, more commonly, microsurgery. In an address to the gathering of the American Heart Association in St. Louis, Dr. Julius H. Jacobson II, told how he and two colleagues, Dr. Ernesto L. Suarez and Dr. Donald B. Miller, had successfully used an otologist’s operating microscope, normally used for ear surgery, to successfully reconnect small blood vessels within a dog. Dr. Jacobson would later be referred to among vascular surgeons as “the father of microsurgery”.
• In Louisville, Kentucky, Cassius Clay (later Muhammad Ali) made his professional boxing debut, defeating Tunney Hunsaker (a 30-year-old prizefighter who was also the police chief of Fayetteville, West Virginia) in a six-round bout.

And here’s what was keeping Peggy busy:

Sunday 23rd October 1960
Gillian’s party
Gillian party wasn’t one of our social successes!! Michael wouldn’t come in – & Andrew went home early! However we grown ups enjoyed our tea. Molly & Ted came about three. Anne was here for the day.  

Monday 24th October 1960
Still having bad nights with Philip – my eyes are sore & tired! Poor Phil! More cards and a parcel for Gillian today making 25 cards. Mrs Roberts came in to tea with Michael & Christopher.

Tuesday 25th October 1960
Lovely day today – I’ve dried the remaining wash. We’ve been to the village this afternoon. Philip’s rash is much better but he is looking very pale. Both he & Gillian are very tired – we had another bad night last night.

Wednesday 26th October 1960
The least said about today the better. It has poured all day – and it is still coming down 9.30pm. We haven’t been out! Car is in for repair so Cyril is walking to & fro.

Thursday 27th October 1960
Fine day today – I’ve dried all the washing & been out twice – had to go out for vegetables this morning. Heard that we have been allocated a garage on the estate.

Friday 28th October 1960
Dentist 12 noon.
Gillian & I
Take Jills NH. number.
We prepared the lunch & went to the dentist this morning – had my tooth filled & Gillian had an inspection – she was very good. Home about 12.45. Lovely day – we’ve been in the woods.

Saturday 29th October 1960
A filthy day – it hasn’t stopped raining. Cyril has been to Weybridge & collected the car as good as new again – but that has been the extent of the days outings. I’ve some apple chutney on the “go” – & Gillian & I baked this morning! Have also written to Mum & Mur this afternoon. Floods are bad in Worcestershire. PHILIP SLEPT ALL NIGHT – after waking when we went to bed. 

Week 41 & 42: 9th October 1960 – 22nd October 1960

Here’s what was going on in the world this fortnight in 1960

• At a UN meeting, Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev warned that his country was manufacturing rockets on a large scale for potential use against the US.
• Senator Thomas J. Dodd called on Dr. Linus Pauling to name the scientists who helped him circulate a petition calling for a ban on nuclear weapons. Pauling declined to do so.
• Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev removed his right shoe during a debate at the U.N. General Assembly, and pounded it on the table during a discussion of Soviet Union policy toward Eastern Europe. 
• In a protest that would soon become famous, Baltimore housewife Mrs. Madalyn Murray withdrew her 14-year-old son, William J. Murray, from Woodbourne Junior High School rather than to continue participation in a daily Bible reading. Since 1905, the city school district had required Bible reading or prayer to open each school day. Mrs. Murray, later Madalyn Murray O’Hair, founded the American Atheists and continued challenging the separation of church and state.
• A bomb explosion in Times Square subway station, New York City, injured 33 people. It was the third such bombing attack in eleven days.
• The metre was redefined, by an act passed at the 11th General Conference on Weights and Measures. Replacing the platinum-iridium meter bar that had been kept in Paris since 1889, the new definition was 1,650,763.73 wavelengths of the orange-red line of Krypton-86.
• Félix-Roland Moumié, a leader in the fight for the independence of French Cameroon, was poisoned with thallium by a French agent, and died on November 3.
• Two American tourists, missing since a visit to the Soviet Union in August, were released unharmed and sent to Austria. Mark Kaminsky, 32, and Harvey Bennett, 26, had secretly been jailed in the Ukraine and tried by a military court for espionage. After pleading guilty, both men were deported.
• In Atlanta, Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. was arrested, along with 280 students, for taking part in a lunch counter sit-in at a Rich’s department store. Charged with a parole violation from an earlier traffic violation, King was sentenced to four months of hard labor at the Reidsville State Prison, but released three days later after an appeal by Robert F. Kennedy, brother of Democratic presidential nominee John F. Kennedy, to Georgia Governor Ernest Vandiver.
• HMS Dreadnought, the United Kingdom’s first nuclear submarine, was launched at Barrow-in-Furness. A crowd of 11,000 gathered on Trafalgar Day to watch Queen Elizabeth II christen the sub. Coincidentally, the UK’s Harrier, vertical take-off and landing jet fighter, made its first flight on the same day.

And here’s what was keeping Peggy busy:

Sunday 9th October 1960
Cyril went back at 2.20pm – & I’ve just seen on the news that there is flooding in the Home Countries so I hope he wasn’t ‘caught’. Gillian didn’t seem to mind his going. It’s been a showery day.

Monday 10th October 1960
A fine day: – This afternoon I’ve been over to see Grace & we’ve had a nice time – Jim came & fetched us & brought us back at half past six – the children were very good. & very tired!

Tuesday 11th October 1960
Joan came over today & we took the three up town – May stayed in as she had a tooth out this morning – it was a lovely afternoon. This evening I’ve been with Ted to see Miss Walker – – & we’ve made a start with fixing things up.

Wednesday 12th October 1960
We’ve had a very hectic afternoon out in Worcester. The children weren’t very good – they’d soon had enough & we were so tired we had to have a taxi home! Have made a cake for Dad since our return.

Thursday 13th October 1960
To Joane. I went over to the Link this morning – called on Auntie Kit – took Gillian with me & left Philip asleep. Fred came & collected us at 2pm- & we arrived here at Sedge at 2.45 – very nice too. Gillian has only just gone to bed (7pm)

Friday 14th October 1960
Poor Philip is very spotty & his eczema is very bad – A very stormy day – we did manage to walk the children to the village. I did a big wash in the machine while Joan was at work. Cyril rang – he has a very heavy cold.

Saturday 15th October 1960
Foggy first thing but its cleared up – Gillian went to see the “meet” – I was going to take Philip but it was too foggy. Cyril arrived about half past three after several mishaps – and then he told me he had an accident on the way home last Sunday – front of the car all bashed in – what a shock. It was the other fellows fault – Cyril was stationary when he felt a bang from the rear.

Sunday 16th October 1960
We had a good trip back – left Joan at 2.5pm – home 5.30 after a 15min break outside Maidstone (I think Peggy probably means Maidenhead!) It’s good to be home – everything was so nice & clean too! Bliss! to have a good nights sleep.

Monday 17th October 1960
Very foggy. Took Philip to Doc L this am & got ointment etc for his rash. Not to worry. Have done a big wash but not a hope of putting it out to dry. Cyril has shopped at Esher. Cleared up after dinner so I took the children out.

Tuesday 18th October 1960
Fine today. Philip was out in his pram all morning & Gillian in the garden. This afternoon we went to the village – after I had finished off the ironing. Philip’s rash has cleared up today – his face is quite clear.

Wednesday 19th October 1960
Cleared up this afternoon & enabled us to go to the clinic. Philip has put on 20ozs in the past 17 weeks. His rash is much better but he has been a bit irritable today. Probably tired – like me – after his bad night. Gillian full of beans. Letter from Mur & Dave.

Thursday 20th October 1960
A filthy day. It hasn’t stopped raining & Philip has been very irritable this afternoon. At last I’ve ironed the chair covers & we’ve put them on tonight. Looks more like home now. Another bad night with Philip.

Friday 21st October 1960
Fine today – I’ve been able to dry & iron the washing before going out. Another two cards for Gillian today – £2 yesterday from Molly . Cyril going for an eye test this afternoon.

Saturday 22nd October 1960
Gillian (Birthday)
Our darling is three years old today & she has had a great deal of excitement!! – just thrilled with the huge pile of cards from the postman. Its been a very wet day so Cyril went on his own to L’head & Esher. I’ve iced the cakes & made jellies etc. ready for the party tomorrow. Philip hasn’t been happy this afternoon & was looking very angry when he went to bed. I’ve had a bath & shampoo.

Week 40: 2nd October 1960 – 8th October 1960

Here’s what was going on in the world this weeks in 1960

• Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, the antibiotic-resistant form of bacteria known as MRSA, was first isolated. Dr. M. Patricia Jevons, of the Staphylococcus Reference Laboratory in Colindale, London, found the resistant form in six of 5,440 strains supplied from hospitals in southeastern England. On October 2, “Patient A” had an infection following a nephrectomy, and on the same ward, “Nurse B” had an infected skin lesion.
• Eastern Air Lines Flight 375 crashed moments after takeoff from Boston, after a bird strike. The Lockheed Electra turboprop encountered a flock of starlings, which were sucked into, and stopped, three of its four engines. The plane plunged into Winthrop Bay, killing 62 of the 72 people on board. FAA investigators theorised in April, 1962, that the unique sound of the Electra’s engines was similar to that made by crickets, which starlings sought for food.
• James Tidwell was admitted to the Cincinnati General Hospital in Cincinnati, Ohio, for treatment of cancer, and became the first of 88 unwitting victims of an experiment by the University of Cincinnati and the Atomic Support Agency of the United States Department of Defence. On October 28, he would be subjected to his first of many doses of ionising radiation over his entire body, starting at 100 rads, and increasing gradually to 250 rads, and on November 7, doses of 300 rads to his brain. He would die on November 29, 1960, 32 days after treatment began, the first fatality of the program, which would continue until 1971. The existence of the experiments would not be revealed to the public until 1994.
• Spartacus, directed by Stanley Kubrick and starring Kirk Douglas in the title role, premiered at the DeMille Theatre in New York City before being released nationwide the next day. The film would become the highest money earner of the year.
• The Central Intelligence Agency prepared a box of poison cigars as one of several plans to assassinate Cuban dictator Fidel Castro. The cigars were delivered to a contact in Cuba on February 13, 1961, but were never used.
• ‘Tell Laura I Love Her’ by Ricky Valance was No. 1 in the UK.

And here’s what was keeping Peggy busy:

Sunday 2nd October 1960
We were about bright & early owing to the clocks going back an hour. Cyril cleaned & polished the car & suggested we went to see Molly & Ted. I rang Molly & we were away at 1.15. I’ve had a very enjoyable afternoon with them home at 7.30. Philip started a cold.

Monday 3rd October 1960
Poor Philip is very sneezy & spluttery. I’ve kept him in today. Mrs Chapman sat with him while I went to the phone. Letter from Mur & Doris. Gillian hasn’t been very happy today. I have an idea she is starting a cold too.

Tuesday 4th October 1960
Disquieting news from home regarding Ted’s affairs and the general state at 37. Feel I should go so have written asking Rob to put me & the children up for a few days from next Saturday. Philip seems a bit better but is looking pale and heavy. Gillian sneezing now.

Wednesday 5th October 1960
Gillian’s cold has developed now so we haven’t been out at all today. Philip seems better. Had a parcel of “outgrowns” from Muriel today – they will come in nicely for Gillian.

Thursday 6th October 1960
Robert’s B’day.
A lovely morning. I’ve done a big wash in readiness for Saturday & defrosted frig. Children’s colds better so we’ve been to the village unfortunately it has started raining. Letter from Rob with the OK for Saturday.

Friday 7th October 1960
Jackie Creed’s B’day. I’ve had a very busy day today – “flashed” the kitchen all over & how I perspired! Baked, washed, ironed & attempted the packing with the help of Jill & Phil!! Both children in bed early. Phil had a session from 10pm – nearly midnight (I think)

Saturday 8th October 1960
Trip to Malvern?
We were awake bright & early – I was up at 5am. & we left at 7.30. It was a dirty morning not very nice for driving. However we made good time & the children behaved well. Got to Joan’s at quarter to eleven to their surprise! – Left about quarter to twelve & at Rob & Marg’s just before one. Have seen Dad & Mick& Ted & Jacking this evening. Jackie’s mum & dad have been to see us. Children gone to bed nicely.

Week 39: 25th September 1960 – 1st October 1960

Here’s what was going on in the world this weeks in 1960

• Geothermal energy was used to generate electricity for the first time in the United States, as a power unit was placed online by Pacific Gas and Electric Company, drawing power from steam generated at The Geysers in northern California.
• The two leading U.S. presidential candidates, Republican Richard M. Nixon and Democrat John F. Kennedy, participated in the first televised presidential debate, which took place in Chicago at the television studios of WBBM-TV. The one-hour-long event began at 8:30 pm local time. The first debate demonstrated the power of television in influencing voters. Kennedy appeared tan and charismatic, while Nixon, due in part to poor makeup and a recent hospitalization, looked unkempt and tense.
• English suffrage campaigner, anti-fascist activist and artist, Sylvia Pankhurst, died aged 78 in Addis Ababa where she had moved 1956. She received a full state funeral at which Haile Selassie named her, ‘an honorary Ethiopian’. She became the only foreigner buried in front of Holy Trinity Cathedral in Addis Ababa.
• At the United Nations General Assembly, Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev angrily interrupted British Prime Minister Harold Macmillan. Ever the gentleman, Macmillan calmly waited for Khrushchev to finish the harangue in Russian, smiled and commented, “I should like that to be translated”, then finished his address.
• American television viewers were invited to meet The Flintstones, “a modern Stone Age family”, with the premiere of the cartoon as a prime time series on ABC.

And here’s what was keeping Peggy busy:

Sunday 25th September 1960
Molly (birthday)
Another lovely day – we took our time getting up & Cyril has helped indoors all morning. We haven’t been out. Cyril, Gillian & Philip have been in the garden all afternoon.

Monday 26th September 1960
A fine day but getting cold now – 3.45pm. I’ve dried all the washing but have yet to tackle the huge pile of ironing! We’ve only been for a short walk this afternoon. Letters from Dad & Joan.

Tuesday 27th September 1960
Fine day at the moment I’m having troubles with the fire – the coal they delivered yesterday is so wet. Am wondering if Gillian will sleep this evening as she went to bed for 1 1/2 this morning. Voluntarily! VERY BAD NIGHT WITH BOTH!!!

Wednesday 28th September 1960
Fine day but very cold again. Cyril & I are both very tired after our up & down night! Haven’t been far today – only to the post box. Letter from Mur – but no news as to when she’s likely to visit as Dave not home yet.

Thursday 29th September 1960
Fred. (birthday)
I thought we were in for a cold wet day so lit the fire early. However its cleared up & is dry & sunny. We’ve only been as far the phone I’ve done my washing & ironing today as we’re all going to Kingston tomorrow Cyril brought me home a twin set.

Friday 30th September 1960
Anne.(birthday)
Cyril had a day off today & we’ve had a whale of a time – spending money! Its rained all day – the children have been very good – I’ve bought a skirt – undies and the most expensive pair of shoes I’ve ever had.  I shall be afraid to wear them!!! They’re lovely. We were all very tired when we got home.

Saturday 1st October 1960
We had another good night with the nippers – & had a lie in until 8am! Then a trip to Leatherhead to buy Philip’s suits – home to all the house-work at 11.10. Cyril did lots of it though – he’s made a record today & done all the washing & drying up! Philip has been miserable this afternoon. Tired after his day out no doubt. Just going to have a shampoo & bath.

Week 38: 18th September 1960 – 24th September 1960

Here’s what was going on in the world this weeks in 1960

• Nikita Khrushchev and other Communist Bloc leaders arrived in the United States on the Soviet ocean liner Baltika, which docked at New York City. Accompanied by János Kádár of Hungary, Todor Zhivkov of Bulgaria, Gheorghe Gheorghiu-Dej of Romania, Khrushchev stepped off the ship to a mixture of cheers and boos, and then was driven to the Soviet consulate. Khrushchev and other leaders had arrived for the opening session of the United Nations General Assembly, and could travel to New York at any time under the terms of the United Nations Treaty. Though the United States government could not bar Khrushchev, it asked television networks to minimise coverage of the Khrushchev’s visit, and restricted him from traveling outside of Manhattan and Long Island.
• The opening of the new term of the United Nations General Assembly brought an unprecedented number of the world’s leaders to New York City. The first ever meeting between Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev and Cuba’s Fidel Castro took place, not in Moscow or Havana, but at the Hotel Theresa in Harlem, where Castro and his entourage were staying during their visit. Fifteen new members were admitted to the U.N., with the newly independent African nations of Dahomey, Upper Volta, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Republic of the Congo (Leopoldville), Republic of the Congo (Brazzaville), Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon, Madagascar, Niger, Somalia, Togo, Mali and Senegal, bringing that body’s membership to 98.
• Dr. Albert Starr, along with Dr. Dwight Harken, performed the first successful implantation of an artificial mitral heart valve. The Starr-Edwards valve, designed by retired engineer Miles Edwards and Dr. Starr, was implanted into Philip Amundson, a 52-year-old farmer, in surgery at the University of Oregon. Amundson survived for ten years before dying in an accident.
• USS Enterprise, the first atomic-powered aircraft carrier in history, and the largest ship ever built up to that time, was launched at Newport News, Virginia, after being christened by Mrs. William B. Franke, wife of the U.S. Secretary of the Navy.
• Dr. Ernest Goodpasture, died aged 73. Goodpasture invented the method of mass production of vaccines using fertilized chicken eggs, but never patented the process.

And here’s what was keeping Peggy busy:

Sunday 18th September 1960
Mum. (birthday)
A lovely day- Cyril & I took the children over to Welling for Mum’s birthday – found her looking not too good. Rob & Marg took Robert to Bushey Park but they said there was a great deal of traffic about.

Monday 19th September 1960
Ted. (birthday)
We thought it was going to be a fine day but it has turned out very miserable & cold. Rob & May took Gillian & Robert to Kingston this morning while I got on with the wash. This afternoon we’ve been to Chessington Zoo – the children enjoyed themselves.
Bad night with Philip again.

Tuesday 20th September 1960
Very cold – we’ve had to have a fire all day today. Rob took RJ (Rob Junior) to London Airport this morning & this afternoon we went to the village & to a “toy” sale. Gillian & Philip very irritable.

Wednesday 21st September 1960
Its been a lovely day today – we’ve had an early lunch & been over to Frimley to see Jackos for five minutes & had a laughable hour with Gee Gee. Home at 5.00pm.
Bad night again with Philip.

Thursday 22nd September 1960
A fine day but I’ve had a lousy headache ever since I arose! – Rob Marg & RJ have been to London for the day. They got home at 5pm. Very tired. Gillian & Philip in bed on time.

Friday 23rd September 1960
Post Molly’s card.
After writing that I’ve forgotten to post Molly’s cards! Blow! Rob & Marg went into L’head this morning while I prepared an early lunch – they left at 2.5pm – & I did the washing then – & dried it. Gillian played in mud & was so filthy I had to bath her at 3.30pm.

Saturday 24th September 1960
A lovely sunny day after a foggy start we had a leisurely get up and didn’t go out this morning – a quick trip to Kingston this afternoon to buy Molly a birthday present – Cyril went back to his digging when we got home!
Gillian is now calling me “Auntie”! Up three times to her in the night & twice to Philip!

Week 37: 11th September 1960 – 17th September 1960

Here’s what was going on in the world this weeks in 1960

• The 1960 Summer Olympics closed in Rome.
• The Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries, OPEC, was created at the conclusion of a conference in Baghdad between representatives from Iraq, Iran, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Venezuela.
• Cuba nationalized its signature industry, seizing 16 cigar factories, 14 cigarette factories and 20 tobacco warehouses. Those manufacturers who could depart got a new start in other nations, and the famed “fine Cuban cigars” were replaced by Dominican, Nicaraguan, Honduran and other cigars.
• Two dogs, Pal’ma and Malek, were launched into space aboard an R-2 rocket by the USSR.
• East African Airways commenced a jet service with Comet 4 aircraft between London and Nairobi.
• Lee Harvey Oswald’s honorable discharge from the United States Marines, granted on September 11, 1959, was revised to an “undesirable discharge” based on bringing “discredit to the Marine Corps through adverse newspaper publicity” since defecting to the Soviet Union. Although William B. Franke was the United States Secretary of the Navy at the time the revision was ordered, Oswald would not learn of the action until 1961, when John Connally was appointed to the position by President John F. Kennedy, and would write to Connally several times to seek a reversal. Connally would later win the office of Governor of Texas, and on November 22, 1963, Oswald would shoot both Kennedy and Connally; at least one author, James Reston Jr., would theorize that Oswald was actually trying to assassinate Governor Connally rather than President Kennedy.

And here’s what was keeping Peggy busy:

Sunday 11th September 1960
A lovely day- hope its like this all next week for Rob & Marg’s visit. Cyril has laid the front lawn & also planted out some pansies. Its looking very neat. We went out on the Hogs Back this afternoon – found 1/2 lb sloes for some gin. Have written to Mrs C.

Monday 12th September 1960
Gillian & Philip both went to sleep after lunch (Phil had been awake most of the morning) – so I did the ironing before going out. We only went as far as Weedons. Gillian took her byke so it was just as well! Letter from Dad.

Tuesday 13th September 1960
Another lovely day. We’ve been to the village & Mrs Chapman has taken Philip round to the farm. The heat has given Gillian the ?miseries. She went to sleep for an hour after lunch so probably won’t want to go to bed tonight. Bad evening with Jill and Phil.

Wednesday 14th September 1960
What a change to the weather today its so cold & dismal that we’ve only been as far as the phone this afternoon. I’ve just put a match to the fire. Philip has had a good sleep this morning. Let’s hope they both do the same thing this evening.

Thursday 15th September 1960
Lovely day today – just right for the lawn the rain & then the sun. Phil is a bit niggley – Cyril is bringing Anne home for a couple of hours this evening so he will have to share his dinner. Letter from Mur.

Friday 16th September 1960
Post Mum’s cards today. A filthy day – 2.5pm now & it hasn’t stopped raining once. I put a match to the fire this morning & have been drying the washing by it! Needless to say we’re not going out! I’m going to do a bit of ironing.

Saturday 17th September 1960
Post Ted’s card.
Up & out early this morning to L’head for some shopping – home before ten – we’ve been expecting Rob & Marg since about 1230 & I was becoming quite anxious when they weren’t here by 4.30. Anyway they arrived at 6pm having been let down by the car hire people. Still all well that ends well. I had a letter from ____ apologising.

Week 33, 34, 35 & 36: 14th August 1960 – 10th September 1960

We’ve been a little remiss with Peggy’s Diaries updates recently so here’s a four week catch up. Also loyal readers, for the first time we’ve decided to suppress some names in a couple of diary entries. Peggy writes about some sensitive issues that concern people who are still around and it seemed respectful to make them anonymous. 

Here’s what was going on in the world these weeks in 1960

• North Korea’s President Kim Il-sung made his first proposal for the reunification of his nation and South Korea under a “North–South Confederation” or “Confederal Republic of Koryo”. The plan, proposed again in 1971, 1980 and 1991, envisioned both nations initially keeping their political systems, with a “Supreme National Committee” to guide cultural and economic development.
• The Republic of the Congo, an autonomous colony of France since 1958, formerly known as the French Congo or a part of French Equatorial Africa, attained independence under that name, becoming the second nation to use it. In that the Belgian Congo was also referred to as the Republic of the Congo, reference to the nation’s capital was made as Congo (Brazzaville), to distinguish it from Congo (Léopoldville) (later Zaire), and now the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Former Roman Catholic priest Fulbert Youlou became the nation’s first President.
• Joseph Kittinger parachuted from a balloon over New Mexico at 31,333m (102,800 feet). He set records, which stood for 52 years, for highest altitude jump; longest free-fall by falling 25.7 km (16 miles) over a period of 4 minutes and 38 seconds before opening his parachute; and fastest speed by a human without motorised assistance (320 mph).
• After 82 years as a British colony, the Mediterranean island of Cyprus was proclaimed independent by its last British Governor, Sir Hugh Foot. The new state, populated by Cypriots of Greek and Turkish descent, had Greek Cypriot Archbishop Makarios III as its President, and Turkish Cypriot Fazıl Küçük as its Vice-President.
• The first successful running of a computer program written in COBOL was carried out on an RCA 501 computer. COBOL, the “Common Business Oriented Language”, was an improvement in the adaptation of the FLOW-MATIC computer language developed by Grace Hopper.
• The Soviet Union launched Sputnik 5 into orbit, with the dogs Belka and Strelka (Russian for “Squirrel” and “Little Arrow”), 40 mice, 2 rats and a variety of plants. Recovered the next day after 18 orbits, the menagerie became the first living animals to return safely to Earth after being placed into orbit.
• Hans Peter Luhn was awarded U.S. Patent No 2,950,048 for “a computer for verifying numbers”. The Luhn algorithm checksum formula, assigned to the IBM Corporation, provides a method for validating credit card numbers.
• Oscar Hammerstein II, died aged 65. A week later, the lights of Times Square were turned off for one minute, and London’s West End lights were dimmed in recognition of his contribution to the musical.
• The Sabin polio vaccine, designed by Dr. Albert Sabin to be taken orally rather than the polio shots developed by Dr. Jonas Salk, was announced as “suitable for use in the United States” by Surgeon General Leroy E. Burney.
• In Washington, reporters asked President Eisenhower about Vice-President (and Republican presidential candidate) Richard Nixon’s experience. Charles Mohr of TIME Magazine asked Ike, “if you could give us an example of a major idea of his that you had adopted …” and the President replied “If you give me a week, I might think of one.”
• Cassius Clay of the United States (later Muhammad Ali), defeated Zbigniew Pietrzykowski of Poland to win the gold medal in the Olympic light heavyweight boxing competition. Franco De Piccoli of Italy was the Olympic heavyweight boxing medalist.
• The Richardson-Merrell pharmaceutical company submitted an application to the FDA for approval of selling thalidomide in the United States, which it intended to market under the name Kevadon, beginning on March 6, 1961.
• Abebe Bikila of Ethiopia won the Olympic marathon, setting a world record (2 hours, 15 minutes, 16.2 seconds) and running the entire 26 miles and 385 yards (42.195 km) while barefoot, becoming the first person from Sub-Saharan Africa to win an Olympic gold medal.
• ITV inaugurated regular television broadcasts of English professional football matches, starting with the Football League First Division match between Blackpool and visiting Bolton Wanderers. Wanderers won the match, 1–0.

And here’s what was keeping Peggy busy:

Sunday 14th August 1960
We’ve had a dirty Sunday! – have stayed in our working togs all day! I’ve washed & ironed as much as I can so as not to have it hanging around for the visitors for tomorrow. Showery day but not too bad.

Monday 15th August 1960
Joan & family Bringing Eileen
Joan & family arrived at 10.50 – lunch at 11.45 – they were away at one pm – making for Bury S.E. I was surprised to hear the car Prefect 53 they arrived in is their own. Very nice too. Eileen & I took the children for a long walk.

Tuesday 16th August 1960
Nice day – we have been to the village this afternoon. Its nice having Eileen for company – Philip is getting used to her now – he is having a bad teething spell & is very miserable. I’m hoping to make jam tonight & bottle plums & made 10lb jam 6 Bottle ?vics?

Wednesday 17th August
A nice surprise this afternoon – a parcel from Ted & Jackie containing a lovely Worcester Ash Tray!
Another fine day – we’ve been to the clinic & village. I made another 6lbs jam this morning  so have used all the plums.

Thursday 18th August 1960
Jim & GeeGee (Birthdays)
Gillian had a bad night last night & Cyril ended up in her bed & she with me! Its been stormy today and is chilly. We’ve been out as far as Browns & round Little heath Rd. Gillian is very irritable.
Up from 11.30 – 2am with Philip.

Friday 19th August 1960
We’ve been hoping the Lyons Coffee Couple (advertising gag) would call on us today with a free £5!! But of course no luck. Feeling very tired after Phil’s effort last night. Expect Cyril is too. Haven’t been out. Mowed the lawn this pm & ironed. Letter from Dad. Eileen has gone all Home Sick on us. – or something.

Saturday 20th August 1960
Rang Joan last night about Eileen going home – & again this evening to confirm it. We’ve been to L’head this morning & to Welling this after-noon. Found Cyril’s mother almost her old self – looking very well. Nice tea with Doris & Will- left them at 6 – home 7.15. Children not settling very well this evening. Gillian is overtired.

Sunday 21st August 1960
It’s been a funny sort of Sunday with our having to go to Paddington this morning. We put Eileen on the 10am train. Late lunch & a later one still for Philip as he slept late on our return. We’ve all been in the garden this afternoon.

Monday 22nd August 1960
A very dull & depressing sort of day. Letter from Joan which doesn’t seem as bright & friendly as usual. Maybe its my imagination. Have had a heavy wash & am not looking forward to ironing tonight! We’ve been as far as the village.

Tuesday 23rd August 1960
Philip played up during the night – consequently we were tired & overslept this am. – the morning Cyril had to leave early to take the car for service. It’s a dull showery day. We’ve been to the village. Letter from Rob.

Wednesday 24th August
Another stormy day. Heard from Mrs G that she is expecting me tomorrow so shall make an early start. Only been as far as Weedons this afternoon.

Thursday 25th August 1960
9am train to Frimly
We’ve had a very nice day out at Frimley & my how that place has changed – shops everywhere. The children have been very good. We called on Olive for half an hour – I met Cyril at Oxshott & he brought Gillian home. We all had a bit of a meal & Gillian & Phil in bed by 7.20.

Friday 26th August 1960
Heavy thunderstorm at lunch time but its cleared & become quite warm & sunny. Philip had a crying spell this morning but he has been all right since his sleep. We’ve been to the village. I went to bed very early.

Saturday 27th August 1960
Miserable start to the day – Cyril & I had a “difference”! last night & the atmosphere is very strained. Took the children to the village – early lunch & off to Welling. Our poor little Gillian had her finger trapped in the car door. We took her to hospital & she had her hand x rayed – no bones broken – but the poor darling – it did hurt her.
Found Mum looking well & hoping to be out soon. Home at 7.15pm.

Sunday 28th August 1960
Gillian none the worse for her accident yesterday – she slept late this morning. A heavy storm put paid to Cyril’s gardening. We went over to Chertsey to Pages this afternoon & stayed to tea – Home about 6.40pm

Monday 29th August 1960
Bad start with the weather but it has cleared up & the washing is all dried & ironed. Philip has been very good – slept all morning after a shaky start Gillian has been quite happy. I rang Doris this afternoon to let her know Gillian’s hand is O.K. Letter from Joan.

Tuesday 30th August 1960
Philip is worrying me a bit – he brought up all his breakfast this morning but has seemed quite all right since. Its a changeable day again – blowing hot then cold. We’ve been to the village & to Browns.

Wednesday 31st August
We went out early today – had Philip weighed at the clinic – he has gained in spite of his sickness & teething trouble.
Letter from Dad – a birthday card from Edna for Philip – with the news that she is expecting a baby in Nov! Good for her.

Thursday 1st September 1960
Very stormy day & I’ve had a “messy” sort of day – in & out with the washing etc! – defrosting the fridge at the same time!!! Philip had £2 for his birthday today from Molly & Ted. I’ve been very busy this evening icing cakes.

Friday 2nd September 1960
Day off for Cyril
Our dear Philip is one year old today.
Philip has had a very nice day – & is a lucky boy. Lots of cards – 21 – £3.10 – & several presents. I’ve a big job of thank you letters to write now!! We had Andrew & Gillian to tea – went to the zoo this afternoon to Gillian’s delight – she has been good – very excited. Cyril went to Esher this morning.

Saturday 3rd September 1960
What a night with Philip until 2.30 this morning. Just after he had gone off (we came down for a cuppa about 1.30am) Gillian fell out of bed!! We could hardly keep our eyes open all morning. Pouring when we went to L’head. Cyril kept the infants in the car while I shopped. Cleared up this afternoon – I took Jill & Phil to the fete while Cyril cemented the path.

Sunday 4th September 1960
Lovely morning – but heavy showers since lunch. We’ve been out in the country for an hour – Headley way – picked some sloes for Gin – all we need now is the gin!

Monday 5th September 1960
Dull morning but it cleared up & its been quite hot this afternoon. We took a walk to the village – took Gillian’s coat to be cleaned as I’m keeping my fingers crossed that it will fit her at least for part of the winter. She has been a bit miserable today. Letter from Jacq.

Tuesday 6th September 1960
Susie Macnamara (Birthday).
Its been raining all day today – we’ve had to go out in it too. Philip slept very well this morning but Gillian has been irritable. I’m not feeling so good myself! Letter from Mur.
Awful night with Philip.

Wednesday 7th September 1960
Dad (Birthday).
Dr. L saw Philip this afternoon & has prescribed some medicine – 4 junior Disprin at night! He thinks its teeth giving the trouble. Have just put a match to the fire & now the sun is shining! Letters from Joan & Dodo.

Thursday 8th September 1960
I was stunned today with the news in a letter from ____ that ____ is to have a baby. What on earth she & ____ are going to do I don’t know – her people must be very upset – Apparently marriage is out of the question. ____ is so young – Only 17 – in fact I don’t think she is 17 yet.

Friday 9th September 1960
We had a surprise run to Welling last night to see Mum settled in Doris’. Home at 9.30 with two sleepy heads! Gill very miserable today. Rang ____ last night. ____’s mother is hoping to get her into a home to have the baby & get it adopted straight away. What an unhappy situation. Another letter from Joan today. I’ve written to her. Warm & sunny again – we’ve been to the village.

Saturday 10th September 1960
Philip’s second polio injection 2pm
A warm sunny day again & we’ve been very busy. At least Cyril has. The front garden is dug now & the one side ready for seed. We went to Hensham this morning & bought some good seed. I baked afterwards – then took Philip for his Polio injection. He made a great to do about it! Afterwards Cyril minded them both for an hour while I went to the jumble sale. Nothing much there though. Mowed the lawn when I got back. Rang Doris – Mum is quite well & trying to get around on her crutches. I haven’t composed a letter to Mrs. ____ & ____ – or ____ yet! Difficult task.