There is an article in The Times Record Centennial Edition newspaper published in 1956 on Adam Hodam that includes a substantive portion of his autobiographical writings from the period beginning with his 1844 move into the Roane County area. The lead in provides this background:
...as recorded by Adam W. (sic) Hodam on scraps of paper, blank leaves from books, etc., collected and written "word for word" by James H. Hodam. ... The article was provided by Mr. John L. Hickman, of Spencer ... who received it from E. L. Stutler ... Marietta, Ohio. ...
Of course, the passage of more than 50 years from that writing diminishes the value of the names, but one never knows ahead of time which pieces of the puzzle belong where.
The article is included in the
RCHS Centennial Newspaper reprint book, on pages 204-207, and also includes excerpts from Adam's journal covering 1856 and part of 1857 under the heading "Extracts from the journal and diary of Adam D. Hodam condensed from the original books and papers relating to passing events of daily life, record of seasons and weather and many other items of history of the past fifty years." Additionally, the article concludes with a transcription of entries from the Hodam's Family Bible.
Hopefully, someone else will know more about the more recent history of this historical treasure, but this portion of his writings has been preserved and is readily available.
Apparently, the keeping of a journal was a tradition passed from father to son, as James H. Hodam (1841-1903) also kept one. This was published about 1995 in a limited edition. Further details can be found in the LVA Catalog of
The Library of Virginia. This might provide additional clues, perhaps for connecting with other Hodam researchers.
Good luck with your search, and please keep us posted on your progress.
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