The Wesley W. Dow Diaries consists of two diaries of Wesley W. Dow of Lawrence, Massachusetts. The earlier of the diaries has entries from August, 1858 to September, 1859, during which time he worked as a farm laborer in Weare, New Hampshire. There are detailed descriptions of his daily tasks on the farm. The later diary (1862-1863) is larger and more complete with daily entries from January 1, 1862 to January of 1863. Mr. Dow was a religious man, spending much of his free time going to prayer meetings and other religiously oriented activities, though the diary does not specify the denomination of the congregation or parish. Dow also describes his social activities: visiting, an occasional party, picnics, and swimming. After enlisting in the Army, his company was sent south to Baton Rouge, Louisiana. There is some description of that city, which was largely destroyed by fire as a result of military actions. There are detailed descriptions of his life and activities in camp. After the final entry, dated January 15, 1863, there are several pages of personal accounts.