Journal of a Colonial Apprentice
October 12, 1770
My hands are sore tonight, but Master Harrison says my wood carving is improving. It has been six months since my father brought me to New Bern to begin my trade as a carpenter's apprentice. Working at Tryon Palace is unlike anything I ever imagined. The grand brick building rises high above the Trent River, looking sturdy and impressive. People in town call it the finest residence in all the American colonies, though many complain about the heavy taxes collected to build it for Governor Tryon.
October 22, 1770
Today was exhausting. A broad cargo ship arrived at the docks carrying crates of polished glass and marble shipped all the way from England. Master Harrison had me help install carved wood trim around the tall windows in the governor's council chamber. The ceilings are so high that I had to climb tall wooden scaffolding to reach the top. My knees shook a little at first, but I kept my grip tight. Seeing the smooth mahogany wood fit perfectly into place made me feel proud of my hard work.
November 5, 1770
- apprentice:
- A person who learns a trade or craft by working under an experienced master.
- residence:
- A home or building where a person lives.
- scaffolding:
- A temporary wooden or metal structure built to support workers high off the ground.
- mahogany:
- A strong, dark, reddish-brown wood often used for fine furniture and carving.
- chisel:
- A hand tool with a sharp cutting edge used to shape wood, stone, or metal.
Educational example text · Diary Entry
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- 1What trade is the narrator learning as an apprentice in New Bern?
- 2Where is Tryon Palace located?
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About this diary entry passage for Upper Elementary
“Journal of a Colonial Apprentice” is a diary entry reading passage about Tryon Palace Colonial Life, written for Upper Elementary. It takes about 2 minutes to read (267 words) and comes with an interactive quiz and a printable worksheet with comprehension questions and an answer key.