The following pages have been transcribed from the diary of a woman living in rural Pennsylvania. Her name is never mentioned, but from correlating the diary with other records in the area, her name was plausibly Grace Turner. She is thought to have been in her early to mid-20s at the time of the following writings.
Most of the diary contains musings of daily life, doing chores on the family farm, some romantic interests, and much about her family. About half of the recovered diary is illegible, but the following entries were generally decipherable and have been transcribed here as best as possible for preservation. They paint a harrowing picture of a young woman fascinated by the dinosaur frenzy in the area, but being received with hostility when she asks difficult questions about their origins, and later encountering threats upon her life. Other records indicate she was assailed in her home after repeated persecution, and likely killed shortly after her final entry in September 1880. Her murder may have been a response to her controversial scientific discoveries and inquiries, though we cannot rule out other unrelated motives.
As of September 2022, the diary is in the possession of a private individual who wishes to remain anonymous but has graciously allowed these pages to be transcribed and examined by a select few researchers. A detailed analysis of the authenticity, origin, and contents of the diary will be forthcoming.
Table of Contents
June 5, 1878 – Grace navigates traditional expectations, seeks knowledge in secret, and contemplates a romantic connection in a quaint town filled with contrasts.
June 11, 1878 – Exciting day as news of astonishing dinosaur discoveries sparks a deep fascination, but societal constraints challenge Grace’s thirst for knowledge and exploration.
July 23, 1878 – Grace, inspired by her passion for paleontology, boldly writes a letter to the renowned scientist Professor Edward Drinker Cope, receives an encouraging reply, and is now determined to pursue her dreams in the world of science despite societal expectations.
August 25, 1878 – Grace’s correspondence with Professor Cope continues to flourish, deepening her passion for paleontology and inspiring her to overcome societal skepticism, nurturing a cherished connection that fuels her determination to contribute to the world of science.
September 17, 1878 – Grace grapples with doubt and confusion as she encounters a pamphlet questioning the existence of dinosaurs, leading her to contemplate the authenticity of their discoveries and the validity of her passion for science, prompting a quest for truth and clarity.
December 4, 1878 – Grace’s growing doubts about dinosaur authenticity clash with her love for discovery and challenge her relationship with Professor Cope.
January 15, 1879 – Grace receives a reassuring letter from Professor Cope affirming the existence of dinosaurs, but her doubts persist, causing internal conflict. She’s determined to pursue truth and self-discovery.
February 11, 1879 – Grace receives a disappointing letter from Professor Cope, who criticizes her doubts and accuses her of seeking attention, causing her to question her pursuits and place in the world of science. Nonetheless, she remains determined to seek truth and understanding.
April 28, 1879 – Grace fears an ominous figure lurking near her home at night, her concerns dismissed, planning to seek help from the constable.
May 3, 1879 – Grace is haunted by a mysterious stranger who follows her through town, causing fear and uncertainty. She confides in a friend and plans to seek help from the constable to uncover the truth.
June 29, 1879 – Grace is thrilled by a new dinosaur discovery, “Megalosaurus,” in her town. Her doubts about dinosaurs persist, but she’s determined to seek truth and writes to Professor Cope for guidance.
August 1, 1879 – Grace receives another harsh letter from Professor Cope, criticizing her doubts and accusing her of spreading falsehoods. She questions her place in science but remains determined to pursue knowledge.
August 21, 1879 – Grace recounts a curious incident involving her younger brother, Thomas, who passionately defended dinosaurs in a heated classroom debate. She emphasizes the importance of respectful dialogue and understanding differing viewpoints.
September 8, 1879 – Grace continues to be haunted by the enigmatic stranger, who lingers outside her home each night, causing her fear and unease. She confides in her diary and seeks solace in her friend Elizabeth.
September 12, 1879 – Grace confides in her friend Elizabeth about the mysterious stranger who has been haunting her. Elizabeth offers her support and suggests seeking the counsel of others who may have encountered the stranger as well.
September 24, 1879 – Grace discovers what she believes are the remains of their deceased cow while farming. Paleontologists insist they are dinosaur bones, deepening her doubts about their claims. She plans to write to Professor Cope to share her concerns.
October 17, 1879 – Professor Cope’s letter offers understanding and humor, clarifying the difference between fossils and bones, renewing Grace’s passion for paleontology.
March 31, 1880 – Shattered tranquility as dear friend Elizabeth is attacked by a stranger. Fear grips the town, darkness replacing the once-familiar streets.
April 2, 1880 – Fear and uncertainty grip her as she keeps vigil by her friend Elizabeth’s side while a menacing stranger haunts her every move.
May 27, 1880 – Grace receives another letter from Professor Cope, filled with anger and dismissal of her inquiries about dinosaurs, leaving her hurt and bewildered.
June 22, 1880 – A shocking revelation: much of the fascination with dinosaurs is rooted in artistic imagination rather than scientific evidence.
June 28, 1880 – A mysterious and menacing letter arrives, warning against her pursuit of truth regarding dinosaur hoaxes, leaving her in fearful uncertainty.
July 15, 1880 – She experiences a terrifying pursuit in the night, narrowly escaping danger with the help of a brave acquaintance, George.
September 7, 1880 – Amidst growing isolation and hostility, she remains steadfast in her pursuit of truth, willing to stand alone against the tides of conformity.
September 9, 1880 – Amidst rejection and judgment, Elizabeth shines as a beacon of unwavering support and understanding, reminding her of the importance of true friendship and familial love.
September 23, 1880 – The relentless nightmare continues, with fear and uncertainty plaguing her nights. The pursuit of truth fuels her determination to confront the lurking danger.