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This volume has been scanned as part of The Making of America Project, a cooperative endeavor undertaken to preserve and enhance access to historical material from the nineteenth century.CORNELL
UNIVERSITY
LIBRARY
THIS BOOK IS ONE OF A COLLECTION MADE BY
BENNO LOEWY 1854-1919
AND BEQUEATHED TO CORNELL UNIVERSITYEMBRACING EVENTS CONNECTED WITH THE
REVOLUTION OF NEW AMSTERDAM
3tt 166ft,
AND THAT OF THE
fntmnra Cnln« in 1776,HISTORY OF NEW AMSTERDAM!
OR,
JUtn ^ntk ms it ‘tBas,
IN THE DAYS OF THE
ifBM ©DWSSKHDiBS.
together with papers on events
CONNECTED WITH THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION;
AND ON PHILADELPHIA IN THE
TIMES OP WILLIAM PENN.
BY PROFESSOR A. DAVIS,
CORRESPONDING MEMBER OF THE N. Y. HIST. SOC., HON. MEMBER OF THE ft. Y. 8. OF LETTERS, AND FORMERLY CHAPLAIN OF THE N. Y. SENATE.
Haec olim meminisse juvabit.—Vino,
SIX FINE ILLUSTRATIONS.
R. T. YOUNG, PUBLISHER,
140 FULTON STREET.Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1853.
By. R. T. TOUII G-,
In the Clerk’s Office of the District Court of the United States, for the Southern District of New York.
bTBRBOTYFBD BY
VINCENT L. DILL.
128 Fulton Street. N. Y.
I
W. L. Burroughs, Printer.CITY HALL OF NEW AMSTERDAM,
In which the Schout, Burgomasters and Scheplus held their sessions. Built in the year 1642, Taken dovn in 1700.leltinifintt.
Q/a <gfCo?t. ''tyeazye fir. Lawton /
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&rf(y eafaem ^az one toAo^e t/wf czcfaed ^tfatez twz~i tJve ^bcencJ ojf my yotemyez afaty^, tnc/ctce^ ?ne fa cn&cze$e fa yoct	^ctmd/e
ej^bzt, fa cfa^^t&e Anow&c/ye on fate eaz'/y Stfafazy ojf faCczt ^ounfay, w^tcd> m 6Jte ^zcy^fadt (~&on-ttfa&zfaon fat fifite fi&/t£tccz/ Steav-end'.
New York, Dec. 1853.
G& £2f.PREFACE.
While in the preparation of this first article, we are indebted to various important works, we acknowledge the favors received from the most distinguished writer of Dutch Annals, in America, Col. J. Romeyn Brodhead, for facts drawn from his splendid and elaborate unpublished work on the early history of the State.* Officers and members of St. Nicholas, and New York Historical Society’s, deserve also our thanks for their polite favors.
To those distinguished bodies, future generations will look back with gratitude, as preservers of their ancestral history and fame. And may the light they diffuse, be like that of the Polar Star—ever bright—always seeu.
* Since this paper was delivered in the form of lectures, Jan. 1853, to a large and highly respectable audience in New York, Mr. Brodhead’s work has been published.3ittr niturtinn.
It is pleasant to enlightened minds to wander amid the fields of the past where the light of life has vanished. For there they associate with the honored dead—with those from whom they derive the current of life that now flows in their veins. The pride of a worthy ancestry shows the dignity of our nature.
It is the connection of even inanimate objects with mind, that gives them such an influence over mind. What is the Holy Sepulchre to us, but as it reminds us of Him who died, that we might live ?
And what is yonder venerable Pear Tree, in Third Avenue to us, but as it brings to our remembrance the virtues of that veteranviii.
INTRODUCTION.
Petrus Stuyvesant, who planted it there over two hundred years since ? * So the spirits of the valued dead wrap the mouldering column. The obscure rivulet, and the majestic river how, mingling with their fame.
* A pleasing incident occurred just before the lecture commenced. Mr. M’Farland, from the office of Gerard Stuyvesant, Esq., kindly sent a fine pear, preserved in a glass jai —one taken from the tree in 1847. It may well be supposed that this product of a tree brought under peculiar circumstances from Holland, was gazed on with astonishment and delight.
Some of the fruit of the present year, 1853. was sent by the owner of the tree, to the editor of the “Commercial Advertiser.”
The great land marks of our early history are too rapidly passing from our view. The light resting on them is sometimes obscured by ignorance. For instance, a distinguished Prelate of Philadelphia, went some time since, with a literary friend, to the house of a Mr. S., in the neighborhood of Schenectady, to inquire about some important papers left in relation to our early history. But lo! they were all destroyed to kindle fires.NEW AMSTERDAM;
OR,
Jbm ^Btk 110 it Ski.
How pleasing to sail up some majestic river, and discover its source among the small springs that burst up amid the dark shades of the overhanging forest. It is no less delightful to move up the stream of time, and observe the origin of splendid cities.
We would not now invoke the aid of the muse as did the Mantuan Bard, to applaud that hero who founded the “Eternal City,” but under the dependence of a Higher Power, we would speak of the deeds of those worthy Dutch ancestors, who laid the foundation of the emporium of a Republic, more glorious than that of Rome.
To rake up the ashes of past generations for10
NEW AMSTERDAM.
a memento of their deeds—“ Hie labor, hoc opus est ”—This is the great labor. Be this our pleasing toil.
In our research, we have not resorted to the shadowy realms of imagination for information, but to the pure fountains of truth.
In our survey of the past, we shall at least revive the recollections of the intelligent, and throw some light on the path of those who have never been thoroughly over this field of historic research.
How various the motives that actuate mankind amid the various pursuits of life.
If the Norwegians came to Iceland and America in the middle ages, to avoid the rage of Harold Harfaga—if the Pilgrims came to the bleak shores of New England in 1620 to enjoy liberty of conscience ; so the Dutch were induced about the same time to visit the western world for the benefit of commerce.
To trade for furs, the first colony came under the auspices of the greatest maritime nation on the globe. Then Holland had 20,000 vessels and 100,000 seamen!NEW YORK AS IT WAS.
11
And why should not the naval power of that nation be great, who had reared a rampart against the encroachments of the ocean, and who had converted a boundless marsh into commercial cities, fertile farms and beautiful flower-gardens ?
“ Hesperian fruits, if found, found there only.”
The friend of Capt. John Smith, Henry Hudson, was employed by a private association in London, to discover a North West passage to China. He made two unsuccessful voyages, and then turned to Holland for aid in a new enterprise. He proposed to the “East India Company/7 to make the long-desired discovery to India by the north.
It was supposed it would be much easier for merchant vessels to go that way to Asia, than by the Cape of Good Hope.
To find an open polar sea, is it not the great desire also of the present day ?
While the New Zealand Department opposed his application, the Amsterdam Chamber encouraged the enterprise, and furnished the Yacht Half Moon of 80 tons, with 20 men.12	NEW AMSTERDAM; OR,
Little did the Amsterdam Chamber think of the results of this generous act in fitting out this little vessel—that by this means a land was to be discovered, whose States in the 19th century would send to Japan vessels embracing 236 tons and 3125 men! That an island would be discovered thereby, that twenty-five years hence will probably be all covered with a population of one and a-half million! *
Hudson left the Texal, April 1609, but as the icebergs prevented his reaching Nova Zembla, he abandoned his original design and concluded to find a passage by the North West. In the beginning of July he reached Newfoundland and passed on to Cape Cod—and supposing it to be an island he called it New Holland.
Hudson was told that a passage could be found to India by sailing south of Virginia. He seems to have wandered over unknown seas in search of a North West passage, as Telema-chus did in pursuit of his father.
If Columbus supposed to the day of his death
* Such is the opinion of Senator Dix as expressed in his interesting lecture before the New York Historical Society.NEW YORK AS IT WAS.
13
that he had discovered the eastern part of Cathey or China instead of a New Continent, why should we expect to find Hudson perfect in a knowledge of the geography of the New World? He reached the mouth of the Chesapeake, and then retraced his steps and came to Delaware Bay, lat. 39° 5'.
On returning North, September 12, Hudson saw far ahead in the North West, the Heights of Navesink. They anchored at length at the Hook. The hearts of all beat high with vague and mysterious conceptions about the unknown.
The natives gathered around them and gladly brought dry currants, whortleberries and green tobacco.
How attractive nature must have appeared to the little crew. Amid her varied beauties were large numbers of plum trees laden with fruit, and surrounded and covered with grape vines.
We hear of no lives lost in this expedition but one, that of John Col man. The deadly arrows of the Indians pierced his throat. Hk comrades in sadness buried him where his me-14
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
mory is honored by a spot called after his name —Colman’s Point, at Sandy Hook.
Though an obscure seaman, his death is worthy our notice ; for he was the first martyr in the cause of invaluable research. Yes, and as it was said by a distinguished member of St. Nicholas’ Society. “ There is a broad deep mark of Dutch blood at Sandy Hook, to remind every stranger entering the gates of New York, who it was that opened these gates.”
On the 4th of September, Hudson entered the mouth of Mauritius, or North River. The former name was from Maurice, Prince of Nassau. On entering this “river of the mountains,” as Mr. Webster remarked, in trying to discover a North West passage to India, Hudson stumbled against a Continent!
On the first discovery of this region all nature reflected the attributes of Him “ who hath made every thing beautiful in its season.” All that was essential to perfect the charms of the landscape was here found. And on Manhattan now animate with the hum of business, the earth teemed with cheerful flowers. The birds “ sangNEW YOKE AS IT WAS.
15
among the branches ” and all nature in one harmonious voice sent up an anthem to the Giver of all good.
The natives rejoiced at the approach of those whose vessel they thought was a monster of the deep. They probably had never seen white men before.
The Indians gladly exchanged maize and other articles for beads and knives. They had some rich specimens of the arts, as well as those at Cape Cod, such as pipes with clay bowls and copper stems.
It is a curious matter of inquiry, as to how these Indians got these fabricated articles of copper, as there are no mines of copper in this region. We think they were handed down from more intelligent races, where works of art are found, as in Ohio and elsewhere West. Some such, also, are discovered in this State.
There is a great similarity of manners and customs among all savage nations.
There was one peculiarity noticed ajjiong the natives of Manhattans. The fondness of females in particular for “ star-gazing.” They watched16
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
the approach of the “ signs,” and like those persons named in the Georgies of Virgil, they regulated their planting by their appearance.
How has the aspect of all things changed here below, since the Half Moon visited these unknown shores ?
Where the traffic of a few simple supplies of nature for wampum was carried on between the red and white men, now rise in grandeur the mercantile establishments, and the “ Crystal Palace,” containing specimens of the industry of all nations.
But the celestial book of the red man has not changed. Its letters of light are the same as when first drawn by the “Ancient of Days” on the map of the heavens.
Sept. 12. Hudson sailed up the Mauritius. On the voyage he found “loving people,” as well as those of a ferocious character.
Hudson was about twelve days in going to the neighborhood of Albany. He must have “ hauled up nights,” as they did in later times. De Laet says the Expedition went as far north as 43Q, or eight or nine leagues above Water-NEW YORK AS IT WAS.
17
ford. Among the Indians Hudson found those who were intent on acts of hospitality. Plenty was visible on every hand. One chief had beans and corn enough to fill three ships. To honor his guests, the chief had a dog killed for their entertainment. This patriarch of Hudson’s vale had under his control 40 men and 17 women.
That deadly evil “ strong drink,” was unhappily first introduced by Hudson on this voyage, among the Indians.
They were alarmed at its effects. They fled from its first victim as they would from an adder!
Among the natives of the new world were the Iroquois or five nations. This word means Long House. It reached from Lake Erie to the Hudson. The western end of this building whose canopy was the heavens, was guarded by the Senecas, while the eastern part reaching the Hudson was protected by the Mohawks.
This was a confederacy of tribes for mutual protection. It was the model of a republic worthy the notice of wise statesmen.
The Mohawks were the most formidable among all the tribes. Before even a ragged Mohawk18
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
the New England Indians would flee in dismay. This powerful confederacy was friendly to the Dutch. The Tuscaroras came into the confederacy in 1712. Some are disposed to descant on the superior blessings of what is called the primitive state of man—that is the savage.
Here they would say while in solitude, all the comforts of life were of spontaneous production, they were not subject to the toils and privations incident to a state of civilization.
But alas! in every situation of life man does not live by bread alone—earthly objects ; but by every word of God—or intellectual treasures.
As the mind is the seat of happiness, unless the passions thereof flow in their proper channel, they leave an aching void behind which all the treasures of earth cannot fill. So, while the physical wants of the savage of the new world were easily supplied, yet that storm of vile passions that raged in his heart made him miserable.
What but the lusts that war in the members' of the red man, lead him to cite and devour his fellows ?
As to the pleasures arising from the beautiesNEW YOBK AS IT WAS.
19
of the visible creation, these “ they passed by with brute unconscious gaze.”
The primitive state of man, was that of physical power and intellectual development. Was not “ man made a little lower than the angels and crowned with glory and honor.” Was he not made in the image of God.
Has not man by sin lost the impress of Divinity ?
What must have been the sensations of the Hollanders on first visiting this romantic isle. Then the war whoop echoed from hill to.hill; And where now lofty and splendid spires tower towards the Christian’s home, altars were erected to false gods—especially to the prince of darkness.
It is doubted whether Hudson ever landed on this island.
He soon returned to Holland. At length he re-entered the service of the London company, and as is well known, perished by the perfidy of his own crew, on the Bay known by his illustrious name.
Ah! well would it have been if this city, as20
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
well as our noble river, had been called by his name as a monument to his merits.
In 1611, Adrian Block and Hendrick Christiansen came here and took away two Indians, whom they called Orson and Valentine.
In 1614 they introduced to the island the first inhabitants who ever came here to settle. They built a few huts on the south side of the island.
But the first persons who came here for the purpose of agricultural pursuits arrived in 1624.
In 1614, Block built a fort on Castle Island below Albany. The same year he built on this island a yacht for one that had been burned.
The Indians supplied him with food.
What a novel scene was presented at the beginning of this vast city in 1614.
How the natives listen, while the forests resound with the strokes of those who selected and cut their timber here, for the first vessel built in New Amsterdam!
Here were fine oaks and other trees bearing various nuts. These were so numerous on Governor’s Island that it was called “ Nuten ” Island.NEW YORK AS IT WAS.
21
In this little vessel, Captain Cornelius Hendrickson surveyed the coast from 38° to 40°, and in 1616 presented to the States General an account of the country from Virginia to New France. There is a beautiful map of this region deposited in the office of the Secretary of State, Albany.
How striking the fact that while this first little vessel called the “ Restless ” of 16 tons, was built in the woods of Manhattan in 1614, the first vessel of the western waters, the “ Griffin ” of 60 tons, was built six miles above the Falls of Niagara, in 1679—the one in which Father Hennepin went to Green Bay.
The Dutch claimed possession of the country from Delaware or South river, south, Cape Cod, east, Canada river, north, and indefinitely west. They ultimately extended their dominions only to Fresh Water or Connecticut river, east.
And why was York island called Manhattan ? Because, as the Dutch say, it was inhabited by Indians of that name.
It is worthy of remark, that in the infancy of this city, there were attractions here similar22
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
to the flaming mines of California. Yan Tien-hoven says, the Hook is the mine of New Neth-erland. He advises people to emigrate, for at that place there is an abundance of cockle, from which the seawan or wampum was made.
Such was the demand for that currency, that William Penn sent for it at a great price, to New Amsterdam.
The business of exchange was very different in Wall street then from what it is now. In the days of the Dutch governors, six beads of white wampum were equal to one penny, and four black beads were equal to the same sum.
Seawan was the seal of a contract—the oath of fidelity. When a spurious kind of wampum was afterwards introduced, the authorities of New Amsterdam thought their commercial interests were much endangered.
The feelings of the English in both countries towards the Dutch, were like those of the Romans towards the Carthagenians — “Carthago deienda est”—Let Carthage be destroyed.
The Dutch West India Company was formed in 1621, for the sole trade to New Amsterdam.NEW YORK AS IT WAS*
23
To carry out its plans, the States General voted nearly half a million of dollars. Actual settlements were made in 1623.
The trade in New Netherland was valuable. The whole imports from 1624 to 1627 were valued at $46,000, while the exports exceeded $68,000. In one year they sent to Holland 15,000 beaver skins, besides other articles.
And how has this fur trade advanced with the tide of civilization towards the setting sun ? We have seen the city seal of Governor Stuyvesant, now in possession of Gerard Stuy-vesant, Esq. On this is a representation of the beaver.
The forts established were, Fort Nassau, on the Delaware ; Fort Orange, at Albany; Fort Good Hope, now Dutch Point, near Hartford on the Connecticut river ; and Fort Amsterdam, Manhattans. Fort Amsterdam was on an elevation, standing on a hill that descended to Pearl street and Bowling Green. Around this locality, large black rocks were exposed to the eye at low tide.
In 1620, the Pilgrims at Leyden petitioned24
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
the Dutch government to let them emigrate to New Netherland, but were refused. The English were already too much disposed to molest the rights of that little colony, on a lone isle at the mouth of the Hudson.
It has been said by some, that the Dutch purchased of the Indians, like the Phoenicians at Carthage, as much land here as would be encompassed by a bull's hide cut in thongs. But one thing is evident, that they bought the island for about $24! Stocks in real estate were low indeed at that time.
It seems that such was the case even at a later period, in Pennsylvania. For, in the office of the Recorder of Deeds, Philadelphia, we saw a deed given to William Penn, in 1685, for some pipes and other cheap articles, by thirteen Sachems, conveying to him a tract of land west of Delaware river, as far as a man could travel in two days on horseback.
We presume the Indians obtained all they asked for this island.
We saw a communication from Gov. Kieft in regard to the purchase of land from the In-NEW YORK AS IT WAS.
25
dians on Long Island. He says they confessed they had received pay to their “ full and gratifying satisfaction.”
Ah, yes, the Dutch were honorable and honest in their dealings with the Indians. In their purchase of lands or furs they did not estimate value by the size of the foot, but by ordinary weights and scales approved in Holland, the declaration of Diederick Knickerbocker to the contrary notwithstanding.
A distinguished physician of this city, says the soil of New York is essentially primitive, and consists mainly of one formation—the Gneiss. It is about fourteen and a-half miles from north to south—varying in breadth from one-half mile to two miles. Lat. 40° 42' 45”. Lon. 74° 4' from London.
As a defence from the Indians, palisades of red cedar were thrown across the south part of the island. Wall street was the northern boundary.
The first Director of the colony was Cornelius Jacobus May—the discoverer of Cape May. He came here in 1628.26
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
The second Director was William Verhulst. They governed only one year each.
The third Director was Peter Minuits, of Westphalia. He came here in 1625.
Let us cast our thoughts back a little over two hundred years since, to a consultation that took place here. The principal men have assembled to converse on a plan that may be promotive of their future welfare. A great expedition for that day is proposed. Probably after many arguments were advanced for and against the proposed undertaking, the Gov. and Council resolved to send a Commissioner to the distant land of the Puritans. How great the anxiety of friends for one who on this mission is to pass over unknown waters. Seven years after the settlement of Plymouth. Captain De Rasiere was sent on this embassy to that place.
This appears to have been a trading expedition, as well as to cultivate a spirit of peace.
Yes, and stubborn facts must speak for themselves. The voice of the Dutch was ever for peace : but not so with the New Englanders.
Rasiere says to the Pilgrims, I have broughtNEW YORK AS IT WAS.
27
clotli of three sorts and colors—a chest of white sugar, and some seawan to dispose of to yon. To this introduction of seawan or wampum into New England, says Hubbard, all the wars with the Indians afterwards ensued. This shell money enabled them to buy fire-arms.
As these shells were sometimes strung, wampum was sold by the yard.
This currency was used in New England and New Netherland for one hundred and twenty years.
A boat was kindly sent to bring Rasiere into Plymouth. Plis approach was hailed with trumpeters, and some of his goods were purchased.
But, alas! though strangers far away in the sud set land,” those seeds of contention had been sown by the English that impaired the joys of the Dutch.
Gov. Bradford says to the disappointed man, “ If your title to New Netherland is not made good, they might come to blows.”
“ Blamed enough elsewhere”' by savages, why could they not as Christians, live in peace ?
Soon the Captain ik measured back the sea28
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
again 77 to alarm Ms friends by relating the threats of the Governor of Plymouth.
Immediately they sent to the Directors of Fatherland for a body of troops to defend them from the assaults of the Puritans.
Ingratitude! thou art not heaven-born. And would those embrace thee “who called themselves Christians?77 Those who, not finding rest in England, fled to the land of those whom now they oppress!
Only forty men were asked to protect the humble dwellings of the Dutch, standing amid the shady vales and hills of this sea-girt isle.
“ The day of small things77 is not to be despised ; for it was as the first faint rays of morning. It has ushered in the present day of resplendent light and glory. The early history of all nations and cities is like April skies, all mingled up with sunshine and storm.
Contrary to his wishes, Gov. Minuits left New Amsterdam in 1638. His successor, as 4th Director General, was Wouter Van Twiller. He crossed the Atlantic in the Soutberg, or Tall Mountain of twenty guns. It was manned withNEW YORK AS IT WAS.
29
52 men, and having on board 104 soldiers, the first military force ever sent to New Netherland.
Rev. Mr. Bogardus, supposed to have come over with Yan Twiller, is the first clergyman who came here, of whom we have any knowledge. But the Dutch never left their people without religious instruction. There were “ comforters of the sick,” who read to the people from the Scriptures and the catechism, on the Sabbath.
The Dutch and the Huguenot, as well as the Pilgrims, brought the church and the school-house here with them. In every Dutch family, as Rev. Dr. De Witt says, there was found the large brazen clasped Bible, either originally brought from the Fatherland, or specially ordered from Holland.
This State was the asylum of the oppressed of all nations. The Walloons came here from the southern provinces of Netherland or Belgium, and settled on Long Island, on the limits of Brooklyn. Among their descendants are the Duryees, the Luqueers, &c.
The Waldenses from the vale of Piedmont30
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
arrived, and some it is supposed settled on Long Island, and others, in this city.
The Huguenots of France, the persecuted in particular at the revocation of the Edict of Nantz, came here. Prominent families of this people settled New Rochelle, Westchester county.
The Huguenots were honored by having such names among them as Jay, Pintard, Carow, Boudinot, Guion, &c. They yrere most honored by the reverence they had for Him who brought them over the wide waters, and gave them a pleasant home in the land of the Dutch. Mark their zeal! When they settled at New Rochelle, they went to New York, more than twenty miles distant, to join their countrymen in worship. They went mostly on foot, and reached the city about midnight. Such zeal also was evinced in New England.
In 1651, Rev. Mr. Drisius was appointed assistant minister to Rev. Mr. Magapolensis, pastor of the Dutch church in the fort, because he could preach in the French language to the refugees from Europe.
The Dutch were oppressed on every hand.NEW YORK AS IT WAS.
31
In 1633 Eelbins came to trade with the Indians for furs. But Gov. Van Twiller forbid his entrance into the river. He ordered the men ashore. He caused Ids men to fire three guns in honor of his majesty the Prince of Orange. Eelbins ordered his men also to give three guns in honor of the British sovereign, and then went up the river. The Director, enraged at the insolence of Eelbins, ordered a barrel of wine to be brought. He toob a bumper, and said to his men—Those who love the Prince of Orange and me, imitate me in this, and assist me in repelling the English intruders.
Let us not be too severe in condemning this love of wine, when we remember that a short time since, our most worthy citizens drank wine, even on occasions of going to the “house of mourning.”
Eelbins was too successful in trading with the Indians. But his camp was broben up, and he was obliged to go on board his vessel. He was compelled to return to England with a loss of furs to the amount of £5,000 sterling.
A large tract of land had been purchased of32	NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
the Indians on Connecticut river long before the English had been in that quarter, yet Gov. Winthrop of Boston, wrote to Gov. Yan Twil-ler, that the Dutch had no right to land in that quarter.
But when Gov. Bradford and Mr. Winslow of Plymouth, invited Gov. Winthrop to assist in driving the Dutch from Connecticut river, the latter prudently refused.
The Pequods, whom Captain Mason afterwards exterminated, offended at the Dutch, invited the Pilgrims to make a foray into the Dutch land.
The fertile vale of the Connecticut was as tempting to the English, as Naboth’s vineyard was to Ahab.
They had not a shadow of a title to the lands they claimed.
Duties were first paid in New Amsterdam, in 1633.
They resolved to build a guard house for the soldiers who came over with Gov. Yan Twil-ler, in the fort—a church and a dwelling for Rev. Mr. Bogardus—one for the “ midwife” &c.NEW YORK AS IT WAS.
38
The site of this first small wooden church was on Broad street. A mansion was to be built for the Gov. on the farm between Wall and Hudson street along Broadway. On this farm was a wheat field, where St. Paul’s church now stands.
The Governor’s tobacco field was up at Greenwich. This article that grew indiginous here, was as good as that raised in Maryland.
Inspectors of tobacco were appointed.
Van Twiller supposed the resources of the West India Company were exhaustless, he therefore spent large sums in building houses in all directions. He was the Pericles of New Amsterdam.
The first fort was built by negroes, and probably cost including the buildings within $1688. The dimensions were about 300 by 250 feet.
It seems that in 1614, before the existence of the. West India Company, a rude fort was built on the south part of the island, and was under command of Hendrick Christiansen.
Almost all the company’s servants, imitated their superiors in squandering public funds.34
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
Were the functionaries of the little city of yore the only ones ever thus guilty ? No, no ! if reports of the present day be true.
The country was poor indeed—as they neglected the source of national wealth, agriculture.
The English attending to this, though their land was poor, prospered.
William Kieft, fifth Director General, or Governor, arrived in New Amsterdam, in March 1638, in one of the government vessels of 280 tons.
His first step was to organize a Council of which he should have entire control.
Dr. Montague, the learned Huguenot was one of his principal officers. He gave him one vote to his two.
This usurpation of power was unlike that exercised in the mother country.
The self-relying men, who had won their country from the sea, and their liberties from the relaxing grasp of feudal prerogatives, knew they could govern themselves. Why, then, should not the system under which thev hadNEW YORK AS IT WAS.
85
prospered and grown great, be transported into the new world ? The supreme government of the Hague had unnecessarily committed the government of New Netherland to a commercial corporation. The people, in th$ir wilderness home, longed for those franchises they enjoyed in Holland.
While the legislative, executive, and judicial power was vested in the governor and council, its abuse had a check, by the spirit of justice and moderation which so generally characterized the West India Company, and the republican institutions of the Fatherland. The spirit of liberty was alive in the hearts of the people, though its exercise was for a time restrained.
In 1653, a convention of delegates from New Amsterdam and the surrounding Dutch villages assembled. They demanded a reform in several particulars, and especially, that no laws should be passed, nor any offices created, without the consent of the people.
Gov. Stuyvesant and his council dispersed the assembly, and reprobated its doctrines. The West India Company sanctioned the proceedings36
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
of the authorities. One grand cause also of the oppressed state of New Netherland, arose from its haying been under the control of a foreign company. Smith, on the Wealth of Nations, remarks, “that colonies can never be fostered or promoted by the commercial monopolies of such associations.” The West India Company entrusted this colony to agents, and therefore the people had no more to do with the management of it, than clerks have of a commercial establishment where they are employed.
Under the Dutch rule, there was, properly speaking, no representative assembly. There were some concessions made under Kieft and Stuyvesant. Under the administration of the latter, the commonalty were to choose nine men; three to represent the interests of the merchants, three those of the citizens, and three those of the farmers. In this plan we see the germ of constitutional liberty.
The intelligent will, either sooner or later, breathe the pure air of liberty.
If the Pilgrims at one time, would let none vote unless they were church members, whyNEW YORK AS IT WAS.
37
should we expect perfect freedom in relation to the liberty jof franchise in New Amsterdam, especially as the colony was under the control of a trading company ?
On the arrival of the new governor, desolation reigned on every hand. The little fort was in an utter state of decay. The guns were off the carriages. The other public buildings, as well as the governor’s, were going to ruin. Every vessel, except one afloat and one on the stocks, was falling to pieces. Of the several wind mills, only one was in use* The five farms belonging to the company were tenantless. Every person traded for furs as he pleased.
Some may think that New Amsterdam was in a worse condition than other surrounding places. Not so. Look at Boston in her infancy. The people for a time lived mainly on shell-fish. One day there was a rush to Governor Winthrop’s for bread. To those who came, he replied, I cannot give you any relief for my last batch is in the oven!
As to the morals of the people of New Am-38
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
sterdam, they were no worse if they were as bad as they are here now.
Our Dutch ancestors supposing probably that late suppers would lead to dissipation, passed a law forbidding inn-keepers to give suppers after nine o’clock. Every precaution was used to keep the flood-gates of iniquity closed.
One of the brightest virtues of the Dutch was honesty. We heard the late Philip Yan Rensselaer, formerly mayor of Albany, say, that in his time, the Dutch did not wish a note to bind a contract. Their neighbor’s word was sufficient to ensure payment;
When, 0 when! will the Augustin age of Dutch honesty return ? Not till rulers and ruled, act more in accordance with the principles of the Gospel.
Peter Minuits having been dismissed from New Amsterdam, went to Sweden, and induced Queen Christina to aid him in establishing a Colony on this Continent. When his vessel was boarded by the Director at New Amsterdam, he said he only came there for supplies— that he was bound for Virginia.NEW YORK AS IT WAS.
39
Minuits sailed for the Delaware and bought lands of the,Indians. He built a fort called Christina. Wilmington now stands on this place.
Minuits promised the Indians one-half the profits of tobacco, but they say they never received anything.
They deserved nothing for selling lands that belonged to the Dutch.
Governor Kieft protested against such proceedings, and informed Minuits that the land on the Delaware had been theirs for many years. But the forces of the governor were too feeble to enable him to repel the invaders.
It is said Minuits after three years residence, died at Fort Christina.
His memory and the colony he unjustly planted soon passed away.
We would gladly find the unknown place where repose the ashes of Roger Williams, but we care little where sleep those of one like the above Director.
The West India Company ordained that the same religion should be established in New Am-40
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
sterdam that was in the mother country. The Reformed Dutch Church.
If there was intolerance on the subject of religion, it was because the authorities of New Amsterdam transcended the bounds of the spirit of their commission.
In 1581 the seven United Provinces declared their Independence.
Holland was emphatically the home of the free.
Her federal system was a fair type of ours. The free exercise of religion and civil immunities was granted even to Catholics, and to the Jews, who found no resting place in Europe.
Hooft, Burgomaster of Holland, declared, as did Roger Williams in Salem, that no prince or magistrate had any authority over the consciences of the subjects, in matters of religion.
Andrew Marvel an English statesman, says in allusion to the toleration of all sects in Holland,
“ In vain for Catholics we bear,
The universal church is only there.’*
The authorities in Holland reproved those who were intolerant here.NEW YORK AS IT WAS.
41
Is there no excuse for those who were persecutors in New Amsterdam, and for those who were more intolerant than the Dutch, the Puritans ?
Ah, yes, the age in which they lived was one just emerging from the dark and dismal clouds of intolerance.
Mark the false zeal of our Lord’s disciples who had just left that church, which considered surrounding nations as dogs. Did it not lead them to ask for fire from heaven to deliver those who thought not as they did ?
The fine of £100 for preaching contrary to the rules of the Established Church, and £25 for attending places of unauthorized worship, and the punishment inflicted for the violation of law on this subject, seemed to have but a temporary influence on the public mind. The people like the illustrious of Fatherland were charitable*.
The Dutch, when toleration was unknown elsewhere as a virtue, opened wide their doors to exiles from all climes—they sheltered in their limited homes the persecuted of all nations.42
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
Doughty, who was dragged from his pulpit at Cohasset, because he had said Abraham's children ought to have been baptized, found a resting place in Newtown, Long Island. Yes, and a gift of 13,000 acres of land for his people.
Whole neighborhoods came here to enjoy that liberty in worship, they were denied in New England.
Who will dare pluck away the laurel that entwines the brow of the Dutchman, for his angelic kindness to the persecuted ?
If Holland should present to the world a Constellation of her worthies, would such men as Grotius, the prince of legislators—De Witt, the profound diplomatist—Rembrant and others, whose works in the fine arts have imparted a halo of glory around their country's history— Yan Tromp, who swept the sea of every foe— Arminius and other distinguished divines. Would such alone appear there ? Ah, no! There is room left there also, as there was for Augustus Caesar, between the heavenly signs, for her sons of charity on this side the water,NEW YORK AS IT WAS.
43
who welcomed to their hearts and homes the oppressed stranger.
We appland the hero who marches forth to the field of victory, with plumes waving in the gentle breeze, but we lave those who excel in deeds of kindness.
As water receives the color of the soil over which it runs, so English literature, the most current amongst us, has too often painted, in false colors, those peculiarities of the Dutch that incidentally distinguish them. Yes, and some pens have delighted in drawing a slur over the honored names of Holland. We would say, let such names be preserved in all their length. Their sound is harmony to our ear. They are striking landmarks of olden days.
And ye sons of St. Nicholas Society, if you abridge one syllable of your Dutch name, you thereby pluck out one of the brightest gems of your family escutcheon!
It may be asked, why we have said nothing about the term Knickerbocker, as applied to the Dutch ? Because it is not thus used in the annals of the Dutch governors.44
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
The origin of the term Yankee who can tell ? but that of Knickerbocker, now spread oyer every thing animate and inanimate, if we mistake not, originated by the magic pen of one of our illustrious sons, from the name of the “ Congress man of Schaticoke.” We repudiate all save historic terms.
I think it was said that you could not erase the inscriptions or reliefs on the shield of Minerva, without destroying the whole fabric. Not so in regard to the bright impressions left by the Dutch here. Destroy every vestige of Knickerbocker, saddlebags and all, and still you behold the genius of Holland in the great corner-stone of the splendid structure, the Empire State.* Observe the love of literature evinced by the Hollanders.
The Prince of Orange, to reward the people of Leyden for their, perhaps, unparalleled endurance of suffering and display of valor, at the siege of the city, offered them the choice of
* The reader will recollect that the reputed author of Irving’s Knickerbocker, is represented as carrying his MSS. in saddlebags, thrown over his shoulder.NEW YORK AS IT WAS.
45
various gifts. Like the wise men, they made choice of that wisdom which is “ more precious than rubies,” they asked the endowment of the celebrated University of Leyden.
The love of liberty seems inherent in the character of the Hollanders. We hear of them in the days of Pliny. They, then living on the margin of the unsubdued waters, lamented their subjugation by the Romans.
And did they, in later times, first open wide the path of religious freedom, let us see what they effected also in the cause of civil liberty.
As before observed, in July 26, 1581, the seven United Provinces declared their independence.
The States General, as Mr. Brodhead remarks, assembling in large numbers at the Hague, they published the declaration asserting the great truth, that subjects are not created for the prince, but the prince for the subjects, who have always the right to abjure allegiance to a bad sovereign, they declare Philip deposed from his sovereignty.
This declaration of the rights of the people46
NEW AMSTERDAM; OR.
was not surpassed, unless in that of William Prince of Orange, 1688, as king of England, until nearly 200 years after, the United States of America threw off the yoke of Great Britain. Yes, and as Rev. Dr. Hawks lately showed in his able address before the New York Historical Society, the same declaration was made May 20, 1775, in Mecklenberg, North Carolina.
In addition to the above remarks, the Hon. Guilian C. Yerplanck observes, that the whole frame of our revolutionary government, was obviously modelled on that of the States General.
And if we are thus indebted to Holland for the foundation of the most glorious fabric ever erected, who will not honor her sons, who honor themselves by asserting boldly, the superiority of their origin ?NEW YORK AS IT WAS.
47
CHAPTER II.
Under Kieft’s administration, life and activity every where prevailed in New Amsterdam. Every one coming into the country could have the means of support afforded him by the company.
The colony received accession by emigration from Virginia as well as from New England.
To describe a country, we must speak of its marshes and barren soil, as well as of its rich and level timber land ; so we must point out the dismal, as well as the bright and flowery spots in the wide field of history.
The English, denying the Hutch any right to land on the Connecticut river, improved the land where the Dutch had ploughed. Evert Duyckinck entered the field with his hat full of barley and commenced sowing, but was knocked down with an adze.
At acts like this, well might we say as the48	NEW AMSTERDAM; OR,
poet did at the rage of Juno against the pious iEneas,—“ Tantane irce in ccdestibus animis ? ” Dwells so much ire in heavenly minds ?
The arms of their High Mightinesses were pulled down, and the Dutch were allowed only thirty acres of land at Port Good Hope.
The church in Broad street, erected by Yan Twiller, went to decay, and was no better than a barn. At length an opportunity was presented for building a new church.
De Yries visited Governor Kieft and reminded him of the fine churches they had in New England, while in New Amsterdam they were quite destitute in that respect.
The governor said he had built a tavern for the accommodation of travelers, and of course he ought to assist in building a church.
The tavern built of stone, was used also as “ City Hall” and stood at the head of Coenties Slip On west side of Pearl street. It was called the “ Stadt Huys.”*
The first Consistory to build a church, was
* It was built in 1642 and was razed in 1700. Congress Hall was built in 1800.NEW YORK AS IT WAS.
49
Gov. Kieft and two others. It was erected within the fort. Some said it would take off the wind from the grist mill. They concluded to erect it within the fort, as it would thereby be secure from the attacks of the Indians.
Those who are first in benevolent acts and who devise various just means to raise funds for the prosecution of their designs, will be willing to hear of the plan adopted to raise funds to build this second church in New Amsterdam. They will admire the ingenuity if not the motive exhibited in this affair.
The daughter of Rev. Mr. Bogardus was to be married. On the hilarity arising from the use of wine, though history says none were intoxicated, a successful attempt was made to secure the wished for amount.
For $1,000, John and Richard Ogden engaged to build a church, of rock stone, 72 feet long and 52 feet wide, and 16 feet over the ground— church wardens to furnish lime. The church was on the Battery, near the corner of State street and Broadway. After the city was taken by the English, it was used by Rev.50
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
Mr. Vesey, of the Episcopal Church, when the Dutch minister did not wish to occupy it. We are sorry to say, that Governor Kieft was in such want of money, that he applied to his own use the fines and forfeitures applied to aid in constructing the sacred edifice. In established churches, civil rulers have too much power—His kingdom, that is not of this world, receives no permanent aid from the state. In the divine establishment of the Jewish church, it was wholly separated from the regal power. If such had been the state of things in New Amsterdam, we should never have heard of any persecutions or other acts that obscured the glory of the church.
In 1693, the Dutch built a church in Garden street, now Exchange Place, and on entering that, the other church passed into the entire possession of the Episcopal Church. This first Episcopal church stood till 1741.
If in a “multitude of counsellors there is safety,” it seems Gov. Kieft, a very passive man, was misled by the advice of one Van Tienhoven. This man, possessing violent pas-NEW YORK AS IT WAS.
51
sions, was deadly opposed to the Indians. It is supposed he induced the governor to let him march against the natives with seventy men. In an evil hour it was resolved to cut off those Indians who lived in Pavonia, or the country around Jersey City, and those of other places. Then eighty in Pavonia and thirty at Corlear’s Hook were slaughtered while wrapt in sleep.
The heart, indeed, is made savage by sights of woe ; for a female, high in station, kicked about the heads of the Indians, as though they were foot-balls. You recollect how Cicero was treated by one who forgot the dignity of her sex. This female was Secretary Yan Tienho ven’s wife. Possibly she was led astray by the example of her husband.
But lo! at last the vials of wrath were poured out on the heads of the Dutch. Eleven tribes at once united against them. They destroyed men, women and children—destroyed cattle and the produce of the field. At this time, Mrs. Ann Hutchinson, and most if not all of her family, who fled from Massachusetts on account of having been persecuted for conscience sake^52
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
were massacred. The governor took the people into the fort to keep them from the violence of the Indians.
This war, brought on by the governor, lasted five years, or till 1645. At this time the West India Company was bankrupt. The loss of the Company by New Netherland was $220,000.
The oppression New Amsterdam was subject to from New England, the Swedes and the Indians, kept its numbers very limited.
But the evils of civil war are greater than those of an external kind. The repose of the colony was disturbed by the rage of the former, though on a limited scale. There was a furious quarrel between the governor and minister. Rev. Mr. Bogardus denounced Gov. Kieft from the pulpit for his vile conduct. The Governor retaliated by telling the reverend gentleman he got drunk.
Ah! if these distinguished men were not united in life, in death they were not divided ; for, on their return to the mother country, they were lost on the coast of Wales. Eighty-one perished on that sad occasion.NEW YORK AS IT WAS.
53
Let not the imperfections of these men eclipse the bright points in their character, all must admire.
At length an auspicious day arrives. It is on the coming of Petrus Stuyvesant, Director General of New Netherland, Curasora, &c. of West Indies. Alas! he came to a land where the moral and political heavens were invested with storms. He came as the great Reformer of abuses. This is evident from an examination of the Dutch records preserved in the City Hall, New York. These are important documents, giving a detail of municipal proceedings for two hundred years. They commence with the administration of Gov. Stuyvesant, in 1647. We hope measures will be adopted to publish these important documents. The records were kept in the Dutch language till 1685.
We will give some of the interesting facts presented in Stuyvesant’s time.
Laws were passed to repress fighting, Sabbathbreaking, and intemperance. Pines were imposed on those who sold liquor to Indians. The fine was 500 gilders. No one was allowed54
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
to harbor an Indian between the Fort and Fresh Water, as the Collect was called. A duty of fifteen stivers was paid on every bear-skin sent out of the country. A stiver was between one and two cents.
Houses were covered with reeds. People were restrained from sending away fencing timber.
Bakers were to give lawful weight and not mix wheat and rye flour together for pure bread.*
Great attention was paid in having accurate
weights and measures.
Counterfeit seawan was made of horn, wood and other improper things. The genuine shell money was legal tender.
The fortress was trodden down by hogs, goats and other animals.
We see an evidence of the patriotism of all classes at the time the city was threatened with an invasion 1664, in the respective sums they gave to fortify -the place.
* The ].resent adulteration of milk must have been unknown to the honest Dutch.NEW YORK AS IT WAS.
55
Eight white beads in seawan were equal to . one stiver, and four black ones, were equal to the same amount.
Rev. Dr. Megapolensis gave 600 stivers, and his assistant Rev. Dr. Drisius, gave 500 stivers. Jacob Kip gave 100, and some gave 1,000 stivers. The city as in “ all the cities of the Fatherland ” was under the government of the following officers:
The Schout or Sheriff; the Burgomasters or Aldermen ; the Shepens or Assistant Aldermen.
The salary of the Burgomasters was 350 gilders, or about $133,00. That of the Shepens was 250 gilders, or about $95,00.
We saw in these records a very solemn and interesting prayer used by the Burgomasters and Shepens, before the beginning of their sessions.
They pray that their decisions may be pure and incorruptible. This impressive form of prayer, closes with that of our blessed Lord.
If any one wishes to see a display of pure patriotism—high moral character, and every virtue that enobles those in power, let him look over the municipal records to which we have56
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR.
alluded. In these, a voice comes up from the dark regions of the past to “ all in authority,” go ye and do likewise.
Governor Stuyvesant was as prominent among the unprincipled Directors of New Netherland, as David was among that class in Judea.
Like Saul of Tarsus, we hope he repented of the spirit of persecution he evinced.
Although the walls of the fort were broken down and cattle were running over them, yet he did as we have seen, all he could, to make them a means of defence.
Enemies surrounded him on every hand. The English on one side and the Swedes on the other.
But the veteran of the West Indies, marched immediately to subdue the intruders on the South, or Delaware river.
He could say as Csesar said on subduing his Eastern foes : “ Veni, vidi, vici.” I came, I saw, I conquered.
Printz, whose fierceness was in proportion to his bulk of four hundred pounds, soon fled after Stuyvesant’s visit to New Sweden. At the ap-NEW YORK AS IT WAS.
57
proach of this iron hearted man, the arrogant intruders vanish like evil spirits, at the coming of morning light.
Port Casimir, now New Castle, under the command of Freefalldigheit, bid defiance to the governor.
Stuyvesant brought seven armed ships, with seven hundred men against the Swedes.
At the time of this conquest, 1655, there were but about seven hundred men in New Sweden. We can fancy that we hear the shrill notes of Yan Corlaer’s trumpet as they urge on the troops of the great commander to victory and to glory.
The Swedes acknowledged that the Dutch treated them kindly. But, the Duke of York abused them. He governed on the principle u that the method to keep men in order is severity, and the laying such taxes as might not give them liberty to entertain any other thoughts but how to discharge them.”
The Swedes were a pious people. Two of their churches are now standing. The oldest one is in Wilmington, and the other over one hundred and fifty years old, is in Southwark,58
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
Philadelphia, and is under the rectorship of Rev. Mr. Clay, a descendant of the Swedes.
The “ history of New Sweden in North America/7 is written in the Latin language.
But the laurels won on the conquest of New Sweden, were soon to wither on the brow of the Chieftain of Manhattans. If necessary defeat is dishonor. Soon a fleet approached the shores. It was commanded by Governer Nicholls, of Virginia. He demands the surrender of the city in the name of the British King.
Governor Stuvvesant knew, and the world now knows, that it was clear as the sun at mid day, that the English had no right to New Amsterdam.
He said he would rather be taken away a corpse than surrender. But as women and children gathered around him, intreating him to hold out no longer, and as he had but few men and little powder, he was forced to surrender, 16th September, 1664.
The population of New Amsterdam at that time was Afteen hundred. Effective men about two hundred and fifty, exclusive of the one hun-NEW YORK AS IT WAS.
59
dred and fifty soldiers in the fort. The population of New Netherland was ten thousand.
Charles II. conveyed to the Duke of York and Albany, afterward James II. of England, the country from South or Delaware river, to Fresh Water or Connecticut river, east.
Then the*Duke of York gave East Jersey to Sir George Cartaret, and West Jersey to Lord Berkeley.
This was as unjust as the wars of Alexander the Great, who divided his dominions, unjustly taken, among his generals.
In the conquest of New Netherland, as Benj. F. Butler, Esq. remarks, u was fully consummated an act of spoliation, which in a period of profound peace, wrested this province fromdts rightful owners, by means violating all public justice, and impuning all public laws.77
In 1580, Queen Elizabeth did not acknowledge the Spaniards to have any title to countries by donation from the Pope. So, she knew no rignt they had to any places, but those of which they were in actual possession.
To call the Dutch intruders, says Louis XIY,60
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
is a species of mockery. They have as good right to redeem the American wilderness as any other European powers, and so long as they could show the prerequisites insisted on by England, in 1580, to establish a title, theirs must be unobjectionable.
James I. of England, in giving land to the Plymouth colony, did so with this express reservation. Provided always, that any of the said premises hereintofore mentioned be not actually possessed, or inhabited, by any other Christian nation.
We have thus spoken briefly of events occurring in the times of the Dutch Governors, we would now speak of things, some of them of more recent date, connected with our subject, and may be considered as miscellaneous history.
Progress is hardly an element of the nature of the savage. He is now what he was on the discovery of the Continent.
The Dutch found that they stole more than their wages, and then ran away.
One young Indian was educated. When heNEW YORK AS IT WAS.
61
left the home of his benefactors, he became as they said a beast, by selling his Bible and getting drunk.
The first ardent spirits ever made here was in 1640, on Staten Island.
The Dutch instead of rejecting as the Pilgrims did, every thing connected with Episcopacy, took a consistent course, and preserved what was good. They retained the celebration of Holy Days—those well springs on the desert of life.
Because the Romanist prescribed prayers for the dead, the Pilgrims would not have any funeral services for some sixty years. Prayer was first offered at the interment of Rev. William Adams, Dedham, Mass., 1685.
While the instances of persecution among the Dutch were but spots on the sun of their fame, they were a charitable people. A catholic priest fell into the hands of the Iroquois. Driven barefooted over rough paths, and tortured in various ways—an eye wdtness to the fate of one of his fellows who was boiled and eaten, was ransomed by a large sum by the Dutch and sent62
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
to Manhattans. There he was treated with great kindness, and afterwards sent to Europe by Governor Kieft. The governor says, a Christian charity requires that he be humanely treated by those into whose hands he may fall.
The Jesuits ever remembered this act of humanity with profound emotions of gratitude. These devoted men endured great privations, in trying to diffuse truth along the shores of the Mohawk, and the great lakes.
The great cruelty of the Mohawks, induced the Jesuits to call the beautiful vale of the Mohawk “ The Mission of the Martyrs.” These catholic priests discovered the Salt Springs of Onondaga.
It is curious to see some of the specimens of Diplomatic correspondence in early times.
Governor Minuits, in 1627, sent a deputation to Governor Bradford, Plymouth. The Dutch Governor and Council congratulated the people of Plymouth on the success of their undertaking, proffered their good will and service in friendly correspondency, and concluded, by desiring to fall into a way of some commerce andNEW YOKK AS IT WAS.
63
trade. Governor Bradford and Council answered as follows :—
To the honorable and worshipful the Director and Council of New Netherland. We wish your honors and worship in this life, happiness, and eternal life and glory in the world to come, with Christ Jesus our Lord.
In earlier times, several negroes confessed that they were concerned in the murder of one of their companions. As their services were very valuable, their masters did not like to lose their property, or they might have been actuated by benevolent motives; concluded to have their slaves draw lots to see who should be executed. The lot fell on the “ giant negro.” But as the rope broke as he swung off, he was allowed to live. It seems they had none as wise as Solomon to detect the guilty in this case.
Slaves sold from $150 to $200. They were treated with great kindness by the Dutch. The slaves lived under the same roof and fared the same as their masters. They were baptized and received the same religious instructions as the children of the family.64
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR.
Formerly the lower part of the city was much narrower than it is now.
It was bounded on the east by Pearl street, and on the west by Greenwich street.
It is said the old Trinity Church, built in 1696, and standing where the present magnificent one is erected, was on Hudson river.
Irf Governor Colve’s time, who held the city under the Dutch one year, 1673, the Mayor used daily to exercise his militia before the “ Stadt Huys,” and then the gates were shut at sun down and opened at sunrise.
At the “ Stadt Huys ” were the pillory, the whipping-post and the stocks. Such also were common in New England.
As the business part of the city was on East, or Salt river, there were three forts in shape of half-moon's, called Rondeels, on Pearl street. One was front of the “ Studt Huys,” a second between that and the foot of Wall street, and the third at the latter place. The wall or palisades extended from the last fort, to the junction of Green and Lumber streets. North river limits then terminated in a redoubt.NEW YORK AS IT WAS.
65
In King, now Pine street, once stood a celebrated mansion, used as a lodging house. “ Removed within these few years, make way for warehouses. At the corner immediately opposite, was the residence of one branch of the Ludlows ; opposite to them, in Smith street, was that of the Duyckincks. Proceeding northward, at the corner of Little Queen, now Cedar street, was a family of Beekmans ; directly opposite John Alsop, a retired merchant, a delegate to the first Continental Congress, and father-in-law of Rufus King, who afterwards occupied the house for several years. It was removed some years since, upon the extension of Cedar street. At the S. W. corner of Crown, now Liberty street, was the famous retail hardware and fancy shop—as such establishments were then properly called—of Francis Ogsbury, continued many years afterwards by his sons and successors. Returning to King street, and proceeding southwardly, across Wall, and down Smith street, we come to the entrance of Garden street, in which stood the “ little Dutch Church,77 the oldest in the city, and the lowest down town.7766
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
It will be recollected this was the third church ever built on the island. Wall street was once a rival seat of fashion to the Colonial Government House and vicinity.
“In Wall street were the Yerplancks, Mars-tons, Janeways, Ludlows, Winthrops and Whites; who being tories, remained in the city during the Revolution ; after which the whig families of Lamb, Denning, Buchanan, Yan Horne, &c., got in among them. Here too Daniel McCormick kept his batchelor’s hall, and open house, and Mrs. Daubeny, her fashionable boarding house, for gentlemen only, and was generally filled with members of Congress during its sessions in this city. Greenleaf, the republican printer, planted his batteries so as to command the strong hold of toryism, at the corner of Pearl street.’’
We learn from Andrew Bradford’s map of New York, on four sheets of paper, royal size, 1729, that there was no street west of Broadway—the lots descended to North river. West of Cortlandt street was the King’s farm. Water street was the eastern boundary, and Beekman street, west.NEW YORK AS IT WAS.
67
In 1672, the inhabitants of West Chester complained to the governor and council against a witch that had come among them ; she having been imprisoned before, and condemned as a witch at Hartford. Salem was not exclusive in her alarms. They were common to New York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Yirginia. In early times it was ordered for a better security of bread, that no grain should be distilled.
What would have been the sensations of our Dutch forefathers could they have pierced the veil of futurity and have seen the researches of the benevolent in finding out the children of parents who are debased by intemperance, to clothe them and procure for such, places of employment where they may rise to usefulness and respectability? “Blessed are the merciful for they shall obtain mercy.”
Intemperance, alas! seems to be the crying sin in every age in civilized lands.
Bear market, now Washington, was so called from the fact that the first meat sold there was that of a bear, killed as he was swimming over the Hudson from Bergen.68
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
In 1772, the city extended to the Hospital or “ Rutger’s Orchard.” Dr. Spring’s “ Brick Meeting” was built in 1764, on Beekraan street. It was in “the fields.” Soon it will be among the many things that “ were.”
There was once a wide-spreading tree at the corner of Broad and Wall streets. There the people assembled in 1794 to oppose Jay’s treaty. There the negroes had their sports on holy-days. There sat the Dutch worthies to smoke away time, and tell stories about the negro plot and the Indian wars. But it was cut down to make a place for a rum vault. One of the trees represented near the “ Stadt Huys ” was cut down to make way for the procession, moving on Washington’s Inauguration day, 1789.
In early times, a man was considered rich who had a chaise. The governor and lieutenant governor had one coach each. In those days of frugality there were none of the upper ten to astonish the masses by the splendor of their equipages.
Interesting is the account given by Rip Yan Dam, of New York, of transporting one of theNEW YORK AS IT WAS.
69
popular Rhode Island “ pacers.’7 The vessel was fourteen days- in reaching New York. His mural monument is in St. Paul’s Church.
Although our Dutch progenitors were a temperate people, yet they were anxious to adopt measures to have the market, kept “ afore ” the fort in “ Bowling Green,” 1676, constantly supplied. It was ordained therefore, that no farmer should be arrested for debt while bringing produce to market.
By the politeness of a gentleman, born in Beaver street, we subjoin the following note :—■
Garden street, now Exchange Place, led down to the bridge over the creek, running up what is now called Broad street. The hill on the west side, was called Flattenbarack. On the Ferry house, as tradition says, in times of yore, the heeper was in the habit of sending his man to turn the weathercock, for the convenience of the shifting winds.
What a change in the condition of those who were once the lords of this isle of the West, on the approach of the white man. Soon some become slaves. Others supply their wants, not70
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
from the game of the forests once waving here, but by selling “ sticks ” or fire-wood, and “ gutters for houses.” We regret that such labor appears to be the height of their aspirations ever since.
In 1683, William Merritt offered for the ferry to Long Island, £20 per annum for twenty years! The market on Broadway was rented for 20 shillings for seven years.
And what a distinguished man was he, probably from a land of science. He labors till after the Revolution in teaching the young idea how to shoot. He was the last of the Dutch worthies of that profession. We allude to Van-bombeler. Can the antiquarian say whether his terms were as high as those in the first school opened in Philadelphia, four shillings for reading and writing !
While to the present inhabitants of New York, every returning morn brings health and gladness, little do too many think of the trials of the founders of the city. Fear breaks their sweet and gentle slumbers at night, and reports of the inroads of the enemy alarm them by day.NEW YORK AS IT WAS.
71
In 1675 it was ordered that the Indians should have their canoes collected from all quarters, and hauled up on the north end of Long Island, that the inhabitants should be duly apprised in case they were disposed to assist the Canadians.
One of the first gentlemen of New Jersey, related to me an important fact relative to the origin of his family, as taken from the old “ Family Bible.”
On the first settlement of the countryman excellent family came from Holland, and pitched their tent on the west end of Long Island. One of the sons, like Penn at Philadelphia, ventured to go without an armed force among the Indians, to reside at a place now called Flat-bush, four miles distant. The family called him “ Wycoff,” which means, to go off or separate. Hence sprang the respectable families of this name, in New York and New Jersey.
Round pebbles were formerly used for sidewalks. Dr. Franklin said the New Yorkers could be distinguished from Philadelphians whose city had smooth pavements, by their shuffling gait. The walk of those who traverse72
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
the sandy streets of Provincetown, Cape Cod, is peculiar also. What would this sage say, could he arise and see the danger of crossing the great thoroughfare of New York, little known comparatively in his day.
Where now the powers of calculation are incessantly exhausted amid “ rising and falling stocks,” to acquire property, in “ olden times ” was a rude fortification, to protect the little colony from the assaults of Indians or other foes.
The palisades were cedar logs, of fourteen feet long, and ten inches in diameter: were placed in a trench three feet deep, with loop-holes all along for musketry. There were also three block houses of about thirty feet square and ten feet high : these had in each, six port holes for cannon. They were placed between the three gates of the city. One was on Pearl street.
In the neighborhood of where once flowed the pure waters of the Collect, is a sad scene of moral desolation. The lovely landscape has become the haunts of the licentious. There are the broad avenues that lead down to the “ chambers of death.” But we rejoice that a brighterNEW YORK AS IT WAS.
U
day dawns on this benighted region, through the exertions of the messengers of peace and their associates of both sexes. By such “ labors of love/7 may more than the pristine beauties of the Kolch return.
Tanneries were removed to what was called Beekman’s swamp. The place is now occupied by highly respectable leather dealers.
That swamp out of town, was a great resort for those who wished to shoot turkeys on Christmas day.
Innkeepers were fined, if Indians were seen going away drunk. The whole street was fined if the right house was not found. Would a similar regulation be tolerated in the nineteenth century ? Public wells were in the street.
We went lately to find the famous “ Tea Water ?’ Pump in Chatham street. But its pure water will never again bubble under the light of heaven, as the fountain is concealed under the sidewalk, corner of Orange and Chatham streets. It was customary to go out of town to this place, to drink 'punch.
Water was carried to different parts of the74
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
city, in carts, from this reservoir. In 1661, bricks imported from Holland to New Amsterdam, were sold for $4.16 per thousand payable in beaver skins.
Three years residence of a freeman, would allow one to sail up the Hudson river.
We lately saw the following notice from a Philadelphia paper, dated 1752 :—On Monday next, the Northern Post sets out from New York, in order to perform his stage but once a fortnight, during the winter quarter.
Inspectors of wooden ehimnies and straw roofs were formerly appointed.
The West India Company built a wind mill between Liberty and Oortlandt streets.
In former times bolting flour was done both in this city and in Philadelphia, by horse power.
But what mighty changes has time effected in that neighborhood, where once the boy sent to mill, had to wait many a weary hour for his “ grist.77 There those merchants, whose ships bring goods from “ afar,77 are rearing stores that vie in magnitude and splendor with those in the great cities of Europe.NEW YORK AS IT WAS.
75
CHAPTER III.
There was a water mill supplied from the water of the Kolch, or “ fresh water.” This was commonly called the Collect. The Tombs stand where the Collect once ran. And at the time it was thought of building there, and after the Collect had been filled up, the marsh was sounded to the depth of forty-three feet, yet it was resolved to put the “ Halls of Justice ” there.
Several kinds of fish used to be caught there —and grass was cut on the beautiful hills surrounding the clear water.
We can not think of the desecration of the Kolch, but with regret.
It was once proposed to have it surrounded with beautiful parks, as a resort amid the heats of summer—but some refused to aid in the enterprise because they supposed the city would never extend as far as that place.76
NEW AMSTERDAM; OR,
The elevation between the Kolch and Broadway, was one hundred feet. There are many living who once witnessed the lovely scene, when the beauty and fashion of the city assembled on this eminence on moonlight nights, to see the lively groups skating on the icy plain below.
Sweet to the memory are departed joys.
William A. Duer, formerly President of “ Columbia College,” makes the following just remarks. “ The destruction of the Collect is the great opprobrium of our municipal legislation. It cut off the spring from which the city was supplied with pure water from a perennial source, and in a volume sufficient for its permanent supply, at a cost not to be mentioned in comparison with that of the Croton Aqueduct.”
This body of water was famous, as on its bosom, some of the earliest experiments in steam navigation were made.
It appears from accurate information that John Fitch propelled at the rate of seven miles an hour, a small craft on the Delaware, at Philadelphia. This steamer was called the “ Perse-NEW YORK AS IT WAS.
77
verance.” The experiment was made in 1787. In 1796, he used one by steam of a more perfect form on the Collect, or Fresh Water, of this city. This little vessel was eighteen feet long, and six feet beam. It was propelled at the rate of six miles per hour. It went several times around the tiny lake. The Collect was fifty feet deep.
This pioneer of the palace steamers of the globe, was hauled up on the bank of the Collect, and at length was torn to pieces, and carried away for fuel by children.
We saw a letter of Mr. Fitch, in which he speaks of the importance of his invention, while he states that he expected to derive no benefit from it.
Fulton reaped the harvest from the seed scattered by Fitch. The latter died according to the statement of Hutchings, in Kentucky. He died in poverty after blessing the world by his inventive genius.
We herein present a representation of this boat.
0 man of the Kokh ! not an ideal being like78
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
that of the “ Lady of the Lake/’ Where art thou and the pure element on which thy little bark moved ? Passed away—like the red man who first fished on its borders.
How lovely the rural scenes here in earlier times. Where the Hospital stands, the land was overgrown with blackberry bushes. The berries were so numerous that all could go and pick for themselves without any charge. How attractive the grove of hickory nut trees near Varick street, and beyond Canal street, where Bayard’s spring rose in the cool shade! There the tradesman resorted after the labors of the day for recreation.
Whales were common around Long Island. It was ordained that a public taper of oyle should be appointed on the island, where the whaling business was followed, because they abused the oyle cake.
Seals were quite numerous in New Amsterdam harbor, on the Communipau side.
Since the arrival of civilized men, the wild duck, as well as the seal and the whale has left our shores.NEW YORK AS IT WAS.
79
The famous trumpeter of Governor Stuyvo-sant, Antony Van Corlaer, sold his farm to William Bayard, in 1652, for £750. It was at Corlaer’s Hook.
The road on the east of the Collect led to Bayard’s farm. A little below Peck’s Slip extended a low water course, which in high tide water, ran quite up in connection with the Collect and then through Lispenard’s swamp into the Hudson.
There are those living who have skated from the Kolch through Canal street to the North river.
One ever looks forward with delight to the scenes of amusement, especially to the time of holiday sports.
We may fancy the anticipated joys of youth when they looked forward to the day when after having received the rich gifts of “ Santa Claus,” they might have the pleasure of “putting on their skates” and then glide like a beam of light over the glassy surface of the Kolch.
Where now can the young go for such innocent sports ?80
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
This was the “ city of hills,” not like those of Rome, destined to immortality ; for the hand of improvement has dug them down.
At Grand street was an elevation called Bunker’s Hill. On its verdant sides apples and peaches grew.
In earlier times they could pass from Brooklyn to Governor’s island on foot—or by a log that extended from one extremity of the marsh to that of the other. Now Buttermilk Channel running between the two islands, is forty-two feet deep.
As late as 1729, there was no street west of Broadway. Lots ran down to the North river. From Cortlandt street northward, and west of Broadway, were trees and cultivated fields. It was called the “ King’s Farm.”
In 1785, Alderman Bayard wished to sell his farm of 150 acres, west of Broadway and near the city. He put it up in lots of 25 by 100 feet, and only $25 a lot was bid, and but few were sold at that price.
Lime was made from oyster shells, in front of the present City Hall.NEW YORK AS IT WAS.
81
Governor Stuyvesant bought his farm of 1,000 acres, extending from Bowery to East river, for §2500. It had on it a fine house and barn, two horses, six cows, two negroes, &c.
There we presume he found that repose from the bustle of a camp, or the multiplied laboors of office, could not afford. Illustrious man.—May thy virtues long live in the hearts of thy descendants.
Thy stern virtues were softened by thy love of justice and piety. And thy patriotism too is worthy the imitation of all rulers.
Governor Stuyvesant died August 1682, aged 80 years. His body reposes under St. Mark’s Church.
“ Peace be with alt, what’er their varying creeds,
With all who send up holy thoughts on high.”
The Pear Tree, to which we before alluded, stands near St. Mark’s Church, Third Avenue. It is described in the late lamented Downing’s work on fruit trees.
Some fruit of this tree was presented by the owner to the editor of the “ Commercial Advertiser” New York, the present year, 1853.82
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
The crooked streets of New Amsterdam, as well as those of Boston, were but the common roads of Tillages, and made by accident, and without regard to prospective benefits and appearance.
Presbyterian Churches were used for military purposes. The Dutch Church in Nassau street held 3,000 British troops. Two thousand more occupied the church in William street.
If the former was used by Mars, it is now used by Plutus. It is hereby preserved as a land mark of by-gone days.
William street was formerly the business street—the resort of the beauty and fashion of the city.
There is a small two story building, brick front, nearly opposite Sears’ Book establishment, William street, that excited great attention when finished. The owner on its completion kept open house for one week. Great numbers resorted there to compliment the proprietor of so splendid a mansion.
At the evacuation of the British troops in New York, General Washington occupied theSTUYVE SANT’S HOUSE.NEW YORK AS IT WAS.
83
house of the British officers, corner of Broadway and Battery Place.
We visited the former residence of General Washington, No. 1 Franklin Square. He went there to live after his inauguration as President, in 1789.
The room where the hero slept, opening on Cherry street, is worth seeing for its peculiar style of architecture.
The building is used by Messrs. Firth, Pond & Co., as a music store.
Military parades were in front of Trinity Church. That popular place was called the Mall.
Carpets on floors or paper on walls were not used. Fine white sand wras a substitute for the former.
Even the palace of Queen Elizabeth of England, a little over two hundred years since, was covered with straw.
Even our mechanics live far more comfortable now, than did the nobility of Europe two centuries since. This is truly an age of progress in84
NEW AMSTERDAM; OR,
every thing that can minister to physical ease or intellectual development.
The lines have fallen to us in pleasant places. Truly we have a goodly heritage.
May all hearts aspire in gratitude to Him who is the Fountain of all our blessings.
May not the gods of Homer only receive oblations before the gifts of nature or Providence are enjoyed.
If Snorre was the first child born among the North men, who came to New England eight hundred years ago—if Peregrine White was the first child born among the Pilgrims—so Sarah Rapalye was the first child born among the Dutch in New Netherland. As she married a Bogart, the first families here of that name are her descendants.
We lately heard a gentleman say that his father bought a yoke of oxen to plough up the field where now the Cathedral stands in Prince street.
Should a Rip Van Winkle awake from the slumber of even a few years, would he know this city of such rapid growth ?NEW YORK AS IT WAS.
85
CHAPTER IV.
As to the society of New Amsterdam, as it was primitive, it was more social in its character than we find in populous cities.
Then the social virtues were more prominent than at this time. The frequent interchange of fire-side visits, “ tended to clasp the links and brighten the chain of friendship, far better than the crowded fashionable displays of the present day.”
The character of females is the criterion of society in every age. Mrs. Grant says, the simplicity of their manners was far removed, as far as possible from vulgarity.
These unembellished females had more comprehension of mind—more variety of ideas, more in short of what might be considered original thinking, than could be easily imagined.86
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
How lovely the rural scenes that once opened on every hand, in former days in Manhattans.
While the head of the house cultivated a large tree in front of the house, the female cultivated the garden, filled with beautiful flowers and valuable vegetables. Her taste led her to imitate as far as possible, the unparalleled beauties of the gardens of the Fatherland.
In the humblest flower she could see the reflection of the goodness of Him who,
“ Not content with every food of life to nourish man, Makes ail nature beauty to the eye and music to the ear”
The appearance of her garden was an evidence of her taste, and the condition of her housekeeping. Those who are fond of nature in her lovely robes, become assimilated more and more to the purity of its author.
Hospitality was a bright trait in the character of the Dutch. Their low roofed houses seemed to shut their doors against pride and luxury, yet they stood wide open to let charity in and out, either to assist each other, or relieve a stranger in distress.NEW YORK AS IT WAS.
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Such heavenly virtues are too rare among those who esteem themselves much more polished members of society. The social virtues, languish amid the “ pomps and vanities of the world.77
If Dr. Beattie wrote a splendid article on the fashions of former times, it may be proper to allude to those among the people of New Amsterdam.
Neatness and simplicity were characteristics of their dress. They did not impair their income by indulging a taste for appearance. Those who are prominently distinguished for cleanliness as housekeepers, could not but be attractive in the plain costume of earlier days.
Some of their fashions, however, were more extravagant than ours.
For instance, even boys wore wigs and red coats, while females wore so many strata of dresses, that the heats of July could not annoy them!
Look at the extravagance of men7s wear. Men wore three square or cocked hats and wigs— coats with large cuffs, big skirts lined and stiff-88
NEW AMSTERDAM ; OR,
ened with buckram. The coat of a young man had three or four plaits in the skirts, wadding almost like a coverlet to keep them smooth. Cuffs very large, up to the elbows, with lead within.
Industry, the nurse of virtue, was prominent among the Dutch. Young ladies in the vicinity, and we presume here, were not allowed to marry till they had spun enough linen for their bed and a shroud.
“ Who can paint like nature ?
Can fair imagination boast of hues like hers?”
Yet such were given to the countenance of ladies of those days by exercise—by work.
Thus we have seen briefly the origin and progress of New Amsterdam.
This feeble vine was brought from a foreign land. The heathen were driven out, and it was planted. It has taken deep root and filled the land. Her boughs extend to the sea, and her branches to the river.
We have watched with pleasure the growth of the germ,, of the Empire State.
When future generations come from all quar-NEW YORK AS IT WAS.
89
ters as now to “make purchases,” of the products of all climes, should they ask who built up this “ golden throne of commerce,” they might find an answer even in the words of one of the most distinguished sons of the Dutch, Hon. Guilian Crommelin Yerplanck. The Anglo Saxon from Old England, and from New England. The French and German, Teutonic, Scandinavian and Celtic—men of all tongues and nations have toiled together for this purpose. But, says he, the deep and broad foundations of this imperial structure, were laid long before on the sands and rocks of Manhattan by the hands of these men (the Dutch), of patient labor and of wise enterprise.
May this fact never be forgotten, as long as any of the noble blood of the founders of “ New York,” circles through the veins of their descendants.
“Nieuvve Amsterdam,” the embryo of a city not as yet reaching its manhood, may it ever be the pride of Dutchmen and the admiration of the world.
If in rearing the glorious fabric, our State,90
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the Yankees have hastened its progress, the Dutch not only laid the foundation but gave cement and solidity to the structure.
As to the Union, its opening was not effected by any one nation, but by those from many.
And here the different races commingling like the colors of the rainbow, form one glorious arch in the body politic.
Ah, yes, let the enterprising Yankee and the prudent Dutchman walk hand in hand together like the “ Heavenly Twins,” over the immeasurable fields of our Republic, and on witnessing the majestic foundations of the institutions that are the glory of our country, they will confess that they were not laid by any one class, but by many. They were constructed like that grand monument that is rising towards the stars at the Capital. One stone was brought from this quarter, another from that, and so the work has gone on in beauty, harmony and grandeur—a beacon-light to the “ down trodden ” nations of the earth.
The sun of our Republic in its ascendant glory, is watched with solicitude, both by theKIP’S MANSION.NEW YORK AS IT WAS.
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lovers of liberty and of oppression in the Bast. The former rejoice in its continued and increasing brightness—the harbinger of their future emancipation—the latter eye it with envy, and are anxious to see it go down in perpetual darkness, that they may ever wield with increased strength, the rod of oppression.
The onward progress of our country, and of the once oppressed New Amsterdam, is like the comet’s way. We may now trace its brightning career ; but soon its receding glory will be lost in depths of infinite space.Ipp ettfri*
ALBANY.
In our brief remarks, we write for those who can obtain instruction and pleasure from every source. Their feelings blend with the light of rising and setting suns—the flying cloud—the singing of birds and the breath of flowers, as well as with the origin of nations. They delight to trace all things and events to their almighty source.
Blot out the fields of memory, and what do you accomplish, but to quench the lights of history? Who would by so doing, leave the moral world in darkness as to the past. Does not a knowledge of history, as Hugh Williamson, M. D., said in his address before the Historical Society, of New York, prolong life?94
APPENDIX.
“We are tenants of a spot on this globe and that for a few days only. History gives us an astonishing length of days ; for it makes us contemporary with every nation that ever flourished.”
It is well known that the site of Albany was discovered in 1609.
It is said by some Dutch writers, that as the Manhattan Indians were at first so opposed to the Dutch that they would not sell them any land on the island, and then being discouraged, they erected the first port and trading house on a small island in the river, about a mile below where Albany now stands. In 1623, eighteen families settled at Fort Orange, under Adrian Joris. He staid with them all winter—built houses of bark. The late Surveyor General, Simeon De Witt, resided at the site of Fort Orange, South Market street. A destructive fire lately swept away the old buildings there. There are bright points in the character of the -. worst of men—even in that of the red men.— In the infancy of this city, the Indians as the Mohawks and others “ came and made covenantsAPPENDIX.
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of friendship,” bringing presents of beaver and other peltry. Albany was famous for trade in furs. When Indians killed game mainly for food, it was very plenty.*
The cranes extending from the front of the Yan Der Huy den Palace, were we suppose, used to elevate peltry to the loft.t
“ The fur trade, the early nursery of the hardihood of New Netherland, and her favorite sphere of adventure, long after she passed to the British rule, was now boldly entered upon and prosecuted for a while with singular success. In 1620, a trading station was erected at Schenectady, and two years after the landing of the Mayflower, when Morton arrived in New England in 1622, he tells us that the colonists of the Hudson, had already exported the worth of
* This place was called by the Indians, Skenectadea, which signifies the place the Iroquois arrived at by travelling through the pine-trees.
f The reader will recollect that Irving gives a particular account of this house. We saw the weathercock that once told the wind’s fickle course on this venerable mansion, on the antiquated house of the distinguished historian at Sunny-side96
APPENDIX.
twenty thousand pounds sterling from the forests of New York.”
The red man and his game have fled forever.
The holding of “ manors ” was peculiar to New Netlierland. Kiliaen Van Rensselaer, who was “ adorned with pearls and diamonds,” and one of the Directors of the Amsterdam Chamber, bought land of the Indians that extended two days journey into the interior. The manor extended four miles on both sides of the Hudson.
The company retained only a small tract around Fort Orange. We think some writers speak of the manor as being larger than the above limits. It must have been the case as it embraced nearly the whole of the present counties of Albany, Columbia and Rensselaer.
This “ Magician 77 of the Western world who draws a halo of glory even around common things and events, has collected striking objects that are connected with the early history of the State. He showed us, on a very interesting visit we made him some time since, a weathercock that once waved on the Stadt Huys, (of which building we present an illustration, in the days ofAPPENDIX.
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Petrus Stuyvesant). It was sent to him by the ladies of New York. He has since presented it to the St. Nicholas Society, New York. This memento of “ olden times ” is highly valued by the members of this prominent society. The constitution of this society declares one of its objects to be, “ to collect and preserve information respecting the history, settlement, manners, and such other matters as may relate to the city of New York”
Great was the encouragement given by the Dutch West India Company, to agriculture. Large tracts of land were given to Patroons on the Groot or Great river, providing they would settle the same by a colony of fifty souls over fifteen years old, and in four years. Emigrants paid only six styvers or about twelve and a-half cents daily for passage. They could select what lands they pleased, provided they had ability to improve them and securing the right to use them from the Indians.
“ In the cohnies, as the settlements removed from Manhattan were called, the superintending power was in several instances lodged in one98
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individual known as the patroon. This “ patroon,” who at his own expense, imported hither the settlers upon his manor-grant, was the immediate vassal of the State, and was responsible to that sovereign authority for the conduct of the tenants upon his manor. In return for their obedience to the act of his special courts, edicts, and ordinances, the patroon was bound to protect his colonists against the surrounding Indian tribes and all other aggressors, and the colonists had the right to address themselves by appeal to the supreme authority at Manhattan, in case they were either aggrieved or oppressed by said patroon.”
A dark feature in the plan of the settlement, was that the Company gave to the colonists as many blacks as they wished. How often we think of an interview between two colored children, as related by Miss Van Der Iluyden, who resided in the “ Palace” of that name. She said that in former times these two little ones accidentally met while at play, in the street north and about opposite the residence of the late Governor Clinton, North Pearl street. As soonAQQENDIX.
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as they saw one another, they rushed into each others arms ! Why this excessive joy on meeting? Were they horn and brought up together in this country ? And had they been separated for a time to visit some loved friend ? Did the one who might have been away on a visit, exult in the opportunity of telling to the other the many striking and pretty things he had seen? Ah, no, their joy arose from meeting again so unexpectedly in a strange land. They knew each other in their early home across the wide ocean. They were stolen away and brought here as slaves ! Be it remembered that the evil of slavery was not introduced by Southerners.
But while the chains of slavery are broken in the Empire State, the remnant of Feudalism has been severely assailed by the modern anti-retiters.
Have they forgotten the great kindness of the last Patroon, Hon. Stephen Van Rensselaer?
The ancient landmarks, the houses, which, like that of Irving's at Tarrytown, and a perversion of the Gothic style, as he remarked to us, are fast fading from our view. Why should they not be as interesting to Americans as100
APPENDIX.
Shakspeare’s or Burn’s houses are in Europe ? The antiquated Dutch houses should be preserved to remind future generations of the labors of those who founded the fur trade cities. Gideon Skaats, in 1652, was the first minister and school-master of Rensselaerwick. Early attention was ever paid among our Dutch ministers to the intellectual and religious wants of the people. Albany, once called Beaver wick, Williamstadt, and Fort Orange, as late as 1689 had but one hundred and fifty houses. It was called Albany, from its new proprietor the Duke of York and Albany. The latter was his Scotch title. It appears from the following just tribute paid to the Dutch by Gouverneur Morris, that a fort was built in Albany soon after the discovery of the country :
“ The first settlement of this State coincided with its natural advantages. While Englishmen came to America, either flying from ecclesiastical intolerance, or pursuing the treasure its savages were supposed to possess, Dutchmen, inspired by the spirit of trade, instead of sitting down on the skirts of the New World, boldlyAPPENDIX.
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penetrated to the head navigation of the Hudson. They built there a new fort in the year 1614, and gave it the name of that august family, whose talents and labors, alike in the cabinet and the field, secured the liberty of England as well as of Holland, and established the independence of Europe.”
The reminiscences of Albany, like all terrestrial things, are “ passing away.” The old elm tree, corner of State and Pearl streets still bears its verdant honors, though exposed to assaults more destructive than time inflicts. The late Hewitt Clinton, who was not only distinguished as a statesman and scholar, but for his love of mementos of the past, offered to enclose this tree with a fence, providing any one would give its history. If we may “ find sermons in stones, and books in running brooks,” we could obtain some instruction by such a record. The Gov. was a descendant of the Dutch on the maternal side.
How striking the account we had from a very aged lady of distinction, showing the cleanliness of the Dutch in Albany. She said, in her youth102
APPENDIX.
stores were tended by women. Skeins of silk, &c., were signs in front. Customers came in the back way, and as soon as they had made their purchases, they were followed out by the frau with a mop to clean the places of footprints on the white sanded floor. The neatness of Hollanders is proverbial.
SCHENECTADY.
Schenectady, or “ Big Flats/7 was bought of
the Indians, and settled in 1661. It seems it was a fur station in 1620.
This was the scene of deep distress in 1690.
In building up towns in early times our fathers had to stand like the Israelites in rebuilding the temple, with the sword in one hand, and the implements of industry in the other.
But, by the toils of these pioneers, we are introduced to a land more beautiful than any ever painted by the most vivid imagination.
There Nature is arrayed in her most lovely attire. There the husbandman can secure on the “ Ocean Prairie77 sustenance for “ man andAPPENDIX.
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beast” the first year, without the mighty toil of felling trees. And there no insidious foe lurks to destroy at midnight the defenceless.
The French and Canadian Indians wei*e deadly opposed to the success of the Dutch.
The Chevalier De Callieres, Gov. of Montreal, raises a fierce army of whites and Indians to march against Schenectady. In dead of winter the little town was entered, and after men, women and children were indiscriminately massacred, their dwellings were burnt. Sixty of all sexes were killed, and twenty-seven were taken to Canada. And how pleasing the change in the state of things now in that place, where the Mohawk rolls in majesty and beauty beside the “ big flats.” There rise the Temples of Science. And there are inculcated those principles of peace and love, that alone can prevent the desolations of war that once raged here.
Ah lovely vale of the friendly Mohawks,* here-
* How pleasing to follow La Salle in his voyage from Quebec in 1678 to the Gulf of Mexico by the way of Lakes Ontario, Erie, Huron and Michigan. Under the patronage of his104
APPENDIX.
after thy night’s stillness shall not be broken by any note of savage war. Still thou wilt bo
“ As thou hast been, so in the coming years,
A shrine for memory—a shrine for tears.”
Too little credit has been given to our Dutch ancestors for first meeting the savage foe, and laying amid the smoke of war and seas of blood, the splendid foundation of the Empire State. They defended their fire-sides, not only from savage violence in the first settlement of the country ; but in after times, when the colonies were oppressed by the Mother country, their friends in the Fatherland lent generous aid in the achievement of our Independence.
Long, long may the different races, like plants of every variety, and flowers of every hue, flourish under the sun shining in its brightness. May all alike, in harmony, “ inhale the atmosphere which comes fresh and full-fraught with odors, gathered from every field of the Creator’s boun-
sovereign he thereby defined the bounds of “ New France” and “ Louisiana” as lying on the North and West of these inland seas. As the Iroquois, or the “ Romans of America” lived on the opposite side of these natural boundaries, they were hostile to the Canadians, and friendly to the Dutch and English.APPENDIX.
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teous domains.” Such were the times when the dawn of light began to illume the haunts of pagan darkness in the New World.
But the glory of the Iroquois, like the dense forests, where their war dances were common, has departed. The pale face, by his love of gain, has deprived them of their hunting grounds, and by the introduction of liquor, has defaced whatever glimmerings of Divinity might have been visible in their nature.
It will not be forgotten that the Iroquois were our enemies in the Revolution. Among the 12960 who joined the English were 1580 Iroquois. “ The whole of the Confederacy, except more than half of the Oneidas, took up arms against us. They hung like the scythe of death on the rear of our settlements.” Their deeds of blood were seen as at Wyoming, Cherry Valley, and the banks of the Mohawk. But Gen. Sullivan marched against them in 1769. Near Newtown, now Elmira, he defeated them. He marched as far as Genessee river, carrying desolation in his course. Some forty villages were destroyed. Orchards and corn-fields were pros-106
APPENDIX.
trated. They were driven from their country, and were forced to take refuge under the cannon of Niagara. This hostility ceased with the pacification of Great Britain.
We cannot close our remarks on the Iroquois, but in the words of the illustrious Dewitt Clinton, from whose Address, before the New York Historical Society, we have acquired valuable facts in relation to this Confederacy : “They employed all the crafty wiles of the Carthagenians. The cunning of the fox, the ferocity of the tiger, and the power of the lion, were united in their conduct.”
Ours is the privilege to exult in the noon-day splendor, the Bavarian and other races have ushered in.
ESOPUS.
Esopus or Kingston, was, we think, the third town settled on the Hudson. In 1667, Governor Stuyvesant and fifty soldiers went up to Esopus to make arrangements for founding a village. On Ascension Day they assembled at the houseAPPENDIX.
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of Jacob J. Stol. Our Dutch progenitors did not, like our eastern ones, reject every thing connected with Catholicism. They retained in the Ritual what was worthy their observation.
Stuyvesant met fifty Indians and a few women under a tree. One subject of consultation was relative to a murder committed by the Indians among the whites. The Indians reply that such would not have been perpetrated unless the Indians had been crazed by the liquor the traders had introduced among them.
Severe and just rebuke not confined to that period.
How true the remark of Washington Irving, that we have begun too late in looking after the early reminiscences of our country’s history. Most of them have perished with the past generation. We received from Jacob Snyder, Esq., formerly clerk of Ulster County, several important facts, we are happy to present in our brief notes.
In the Clerk’s office at Kingston, is a copy of the treaties made on the purchase of Esopus for a tobacco plantation. The land was sold for a108
APPENDIX,
few trifles—as knives, beads, &c. Appended to the treaties are the names of the Dutch, and the signatures of the chiefs made in the shape of serpents, tortoises, &c. As seals to the treaty, they gave belts of wampum. These are now preserved in that office.
Esopus was a depot for military stores during the Revolution, and by order of the British General Vaughn, was burnt in 1777. It has risen with renewed beauty from its ashes.
The Indians gave the land Esopus, as a present 10 the grand Sachem of the Hollanders, to grease his feet, as they had taken so long a journey to them. The Governor left twenty men to guard the place, which was surrounded with palisades. The site had water fronts on three sides.
And what a striking scene here for the display of genius, in revealing on the living canvass, its striking beauties.*
* The scene under the tree has as striking outlines as that which has bee > beautifully represented in glowing colors, by a young English artist, and in possession of Washington Irving, representing Governor Stuyvesant, accompanied by his faithful trumpeter Coriaer, at the siege of Christiana.APPENDIX.
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The intrepid warrior, the Captain General of New Amsterdam, and the Dutch West India Islands, marches up to unknown regions, far distant in those days from Manhattans, to make a treaty with the primeval- inhabitants, for a spot on which to locate a town where the lights of civilization and Christianity might enliven the general gloom. Such is the origin of one of the most beautiful towns. One where the attractions of the floral kingdom present a more extended display, than in most other places.
NEW PALTZ.
Such is the tradition of the origin of New Paltz. In former times, some French people, called Huguenots, came over on the Revocation of the edict of Nantz, to enjoy unmolested their religion in Holland. They learnt the language of the Dutch, married among them, and assimilated to their manners and customs. They ultimately came to this country and settled at Rosen-dale and Waughendale, on the Rondout river.
After a while two of their women were stolen110
APPENDIX.
away by the Indians. At length, while at their devotions, an Indian approached. He told them that while they addressed the Great Spirit as well as his own people, he would tell them where their females were. He directed them to the fork of the river where spread out beautiful broad flats. There they found the women. As he was. chief of the Paltz nation, he cheerfully sold them lands. And by his advice, they removed to the elevated spot where New Paltz stands. The chief said the Great Spirit caused the floods to raise the ice so as to overflow the lower grounds, and that they could not build there securely.
We have lingered with delight around the haunts, the early history of New Nether land discloses to our view. The valley of the Hudson and the Prairies of the West, though presenting scenery the antipodes of each other, are unsurpassed in beauty and grandeur by any other on the globe. While we gaze in rapture on such lovely scenes, it is well to consider the cause of this great change in the aspect of things, sinceAPPENDIX.
Ill
when the “ Half Moon77 first broke the silence of the over-hanging forests.
The light of civilization penetrated the darkness of paganism that shrouded these shores, now joyous with the praises of the Most High. The effulgence of the Sun of Righteousness has made vocal with joy, the places where, once the deep valleys, echoed with the war-whoop—where savage violence reigned. Such glorious changes' are made known ; but by the medium of history. Who then will not delight to learn thereby, more and more about the effects of the labor of those who first opened the vast field, that the present generation cultivates with pleasure and profit ?EVENTS
CONNECTED WITH THE
Itttmnra Unwhttian.Sittminutintt.
The sun merging from the eastern ocean, gilds at first only the tops of the mountains. So it was in earlier times. The sun of science shone only on those in the more elevated walks of society. But now its cheering beams purple the vales as well as the hill tops. All can now rejoice in intellectual light.
Many of our great men have gone from the dark recesses of poverty to the sunny heights of renown.
Ancient Rome, the “ Eternal City” could boast of her domains extending far beyond the visible horizon. Greece could triumph in her schools of philosophy, where alone the sons of the wealthy could find instruction. Egypt could exhibit ex-ultingly her everlasting monuments of art reared116
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by the ignoble ; but none of these renowned nations presented what should have made them truly great—such as we possess. Public libraries where all could find information. In them History should be pre-eminent.
History is calculated to enlarge the boundaries of research, and awaken trains of thought which but for their quickening influence might have forever slumbered. And how interesting the fields opened to our view through the medium of the history of our own country. Though histories are brief, yet they are important guides to the broad fountains of knowledge. It is not by reading the most diffuse works cursorily, that we acquire the greatest amount of information, but by reading with care even the concise, replete with statistical information.
Dr. Beattie thinks the ancients excelled us in learning, because they read few books and these thoroughly.
If all our books were good, they are too nu-AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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merous. The mind becomes sated with excessive intellectual variety.
To reject 'particular histories on account of their limited contents, would be as inconsistent as to neglect analyzing one species of flowers, because it might not be convenient to study the quality of the genus.
If our glorious Republic is the growth of a day, is not the Revolution the means of its birth. The events connected with such, is the Galaxy in the firmament of our early history.
We take pleasure not only in introducing these distinguished events, but many reminiscences intimately and necessarily connected with them. We would not merely present what to some might be considered dry details, but to intersperse such with those remarks and recollections, that we trust will not only enliven a leisure hour, but enlighten the reader.
It was well said by the poet Laureate of Vau-cluse, that one evidence of a good citizen was his118
INTRODUCTION TO THE
love of country. Such must be the case especially in a country like ours, where we are blessed with every clime and all their rich and varied products, and with a government that secures every civil and religious privilege we can desire. And if we love our country, we shall admire its history. To enkindle a love for this study we present the following pages. The harp of Orpheus is not more charming than historical narration to the lovers of truth.* If it was so grateful to the pride and feelings of Augustus Csesar to read the fabulous account Virgil gave of the origin of his Empire, will it be less pleasant to Americans to review some of the prominent events portrayed in the early history of their country ?
* There are too many works of fiction read for the good of society For as Governor Edward Everett remarked, they not only destroy the eye sight, but they impair the morals of the multitudes who read them. We are happy to find that the better class in community, discountenance such useless works of misguided genius.S W IS S9 f ©
OF THE
Inzmratt Xmltttinti.
CHAPTER I.
We might as well think of seeing at one
glance of the eye all the stars that adorn the “ shining frame/7 as to attempt to present in one brief history, all the prominent events of the early history of the United States. We would exhibit in one view what is very diffusely spread over the pages of general history.
And where shall we begin to investigate the history of the inhabitants of the United States ?
“ A dark
Illimitable ocean without bound—”
While our work on Ancient America, having passed through twenty-four editions, shows that120
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this country was discovered by the Scandinavians, 800 years since, we will now mention its discovery by the Cabots and others.
How wonderful the propensity of mankind to look “ beyond the mountains/7 for happiness. The same desire that influenced the first discoverers, operates on the minds of multitudes in our day. As the Western Pioneers—though pleasantly situated, they look for new joys even along the lonely shores of the Oregon.
Without the cravings of ardent desire for something new, the lovely flowers of unknown climes, would be left to “ waste their sweetness on the desert air.77 Who then, will not applaud the adventurous navigator while in pursuit of unknown lands ? Give to them some of the highest nitches in the temple of Fame.
John Cabot, a merchant of Venice, living in Bristol, and his son Sebastian, afterwards called the “ great seaman,77 embarked for the Northwest. It is supposed he thought he could reach Cathey or China by a nearer course than to sail more Southerly.
In a second voyage, Sebastian Cabot sailedAMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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for the Northern seas. His little fleet consisted of three hundred men. It is thought he went beyond the straits of Belleisle—to regions where the Polar bear roams under skies of fierce and almost perpetual winter.
He went as far as about 58° North. It is thought he returned South by the way of Newfoundland and Maryland and Albemarle Sound. The Cabot’s were to give to the British sovereign one-fifth of all the net profits of their voyages. We know not that any one of the family of the Cabot’s, received any pecuniary benefits from their enterprises ; but one thing is evident, that Henry VII. obtained from the perseverance of these Venetians, a new empire.
This North-east part of America was discovered in 1497, nearly fourteen years before Columbus discovered South America. In 1501, Caspar Corterael, under the king of Portugal, probably discovered the country, lat. about 50° North, and took as captives fifty Indians to Portugal. Alas i the oppression of the white man, has too often led to the retaliation of the natives. They have not only been deprived of their lands122
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in many cases unjustly, but for their scalps there has been offered as high as £100 each, by Massachusetts.*
Mysterious Providence that permits such horrid deeds. But it matters little in what way the spirit of the amiable, is called to its final home in the upper land of beauty and glory. He who reigns supreme hath done all things well. Finite beings cannot see the end from the beginning. The loved one’s fate was only like that of many in Revolutionary times.
John de Verrazanno, a Florentine in the service of Francis I. of France, came to America in 1524, and it is supposed he was the first from Europe who ever stepped on the shores of New York. He says, “ We were oftentimes within the land five or six leagues, which we found as is possible to declare, very apt for any kind of husbandry, of corne, wine and oyle.” It is supposed on a subsequent voyage he was de-
* Although a war party of Indians of the distant Missouri, murdered without provocation, wnne m a delenceless state, a beautiful young man, our “ first born,” yet we will give their race all the credit for whatever of good they may exhibit.AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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voured by cannibals. Alas ! what is man that thou art mindful of him ? *	“ Tempting were the
prospects the new world presented. To the imagination the Western Hemisphere abounded with streams rolling over golden sands, and amid regions, where springs burst up that would preserve youth in immortal bloom.
That soil, which had increased in fertility from the repose of centuries, invited the attention of the husbandman. Illimitable space presented a wide field for the extension of a civilized empire.’’ New seas and rivers promised important channels of commerce.
To those, who looked only for unwonted joys beyond where the sun bathed his steeds in the Western ocean,
“ There was a vernal freshness in the air,
A breaking in the sky full of sweet promise.”
Adventurers flock from all parts of Europe to obtain a footing on the shores of the New World. The Portuguese and the French follow
* It was an angelic work of those Protestant and Catholic Missionaries, in the attempt to convert those inhuman beings. Alas ! that they were so unsuccessful in their efforts. Wherever an Eliott toiled no fruits are left.124
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in the train of Spanish and English adventurers. The love of gain gives wings to enterprise. It is well that something invites man abroad. Without this, the solitude of ages would remain unbroken. By this only, the wilderness is made to bud and blossom as the rose. But alas ! an inordinate love of money impelled the first adventurers in their mad career.
And when we consider the means they adopted to secure their object, we can but exclaim in the language of the great Latin poet, u 0 cursed thirst for gold, what dost thou not force the human heart to perpetrate ?”
Even pagans had a sense of right and wrong ; that law written in their hearts causes their thoughts to either “ excuse or accuse” them in their actions.
Alas! can men
“ Who live beneath the fostering: smile of heaven And gaze upon creation’s loveliness,
Commit such cruel deeds ?”
As those inflicted by Columbus on the natives of the New World, to make them dig increased sums of gold. While the Hispaniolians displayed many virtues, especially hospitality, thatAMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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distinguish Christianity, still they were treated like wild beasts. It is well known they were hunted down by blood-hounds. Is it wonderful that the retributions of Heaven, were inflicted on this great discoverer in the chains he wore on returning home ? History, as well as the Word of Truth, tells us that u he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong he hath done.”
One of the most avaricious of these adventurers was Juan Ponce de Leon. He discovered Florida in 1512. He acquired fame by his feats of valor in the chivalrous wars of Grenada, and in accompanying Columbus on his second voyage to America. He at length, with a squadron of three ships, fitted out at his own expense, set out on a voyage for a fairy land, a country, as he supposed, glittering with gems and gold.
On Easter Sunday he discovered land, supposed to be an island. It was Florida. Its name, from Flos flower, was given from the aspect of the forests, which were then brilliant with a profusion of blossoms, and gay with the verdure of early spring.
How different the character of the emigrants126
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of that day. from the intelligent who now rush in crowds to the Prairie lands. The former pass unnoticed the beauties of earth—perishable treasures were their aim—the latter make all things more lovely wherever they sojourn ; their object is to secure a competence. To such the face of nature is ever invested with vestments of beauty fit for the wardrobe of angels.
The discoverer of Florida was honored with the office of Governor, provided he would colonize the country.
But what availed the vast sums he paid out from his own resources for fitting out this enterprise for the New World? A dark cloud rose upon his anticipated prospects of beauty and grandeur.
He failed in his attempt, for the Indians, as in the modern Florida war, opposed him with implacable fury. His little army was routed, and he himself was mortally wounded by an arrow.
So vanished the bright visions of one who hoped for immortal youth from the clear springs and immeasurable wealth from the mines of hisAMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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newly discovered provinces. His indeed was “ The uncertain glory of an April day.”
But perhaps one of the most remarkable among the avaricious adventurers was Ferdinand De Soto.
He was a companion of Pizarro, in the conquest of Peru. He surpassed in valor his associates at the storming of Cusco. After acquiring fame and wealth as one of the conquerors of the South, he returned to Spain, to receive increased favors from the sovereign and his courtiers.
He went away a poor adventurer ; he returned to obtain the hand of the daughter of one who sat near the throne.
It was then supposed that there were cities as splendid at the North, as those that were despoiled of their treasures by the Spaniards within the tropics.
Soto was empowered by Charles Y. to take possession of Cuba, and of the immense territory to which the name of Florida was vaguely applied.
Multitudes flock around his standard, anxious128
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to share in the honors and emoluments the new expedition promised. To obtain means for prosecuting the voyage, splendid estates were sold at Seville.
As the hive of the North swarmed over the sweets of the South of Europe in early times, so the wealthy and the intelligent flock in innumerable numbers from the East, to find the treasures of the West.
They sacrificed for this purpose fortunes, as the Crusaders did in the eleventh century, to obtain funds to take the Holy City, Jerusalem. Among the numerous aspirants, he selected for his companions sjx hundred men in the bloom of life. Many respectable persons after having sold their estates for equipments, were obliged to remain behind. The rush then was as it is now for California or Australia. In the year 1538, the fleet sailed for the Far West. It at length reached Cuba. The daring commander is received with joy by all classes. Soto then meets with two Indians from Florida, who falsely told him that the land abounded with gold.
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the neighboring Continent. They penetrate its dark forests in pursuit of sordid wealth.
And what will not man endure to acquire what is not actually essential to his happiness. And this is one evident fact, from the confessions of some who have been most successful in the search after these dominions that afforded wealth and all its advantages. How did Alexander the Great cry out, in the agony of disappointment, “ 0 ye Athenians, what misery do I not endure^ that ye may be the heralds of my fame ?”
Such must have been the cry of these Spanish adventurers. But, instead of finding hidden treasures, they met with nothing but disappointment and suffering. To satisfy cravings of hunger, they fortunately found maize, or Indian corn, which was indigenous to the country.
Many of Soto’s followers, like the Israelites of old, died in the wilderness. After they penetrated the South to the banks of the Red River, they returned to the Mississippi. There Soto ended his career. The discoverer of this noble river found his grave in its bosom. Yes,—his130
EVENTS OP THE
friends committed his body to the dark and unknown wave.
How similar the fate of Soto to that of the young Macedonian. Both pretended to be the progeny of the gods, that they might thereby increase their power over their followers. But the ichor of the gods flowed not in mortal veins.
Ah, ill-fated Soto ! Could we have heard thy last moans, after having sacrificed every blessing, family, wealth or talents could confer, for paltry gold, should we not hear thee say—
“ O my soul—
Ambition was thy god, and thou art laying Thy all before the insatiate Juggernaut.”
Love of gold also filled thy ardent mind With baseless visions of glittering treaures.AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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CHAPTER II.
We will give a brief history of the settlements made by the English in particular. Is it not pleasant to see the germ of the lovely tree of our Republic that now spreads its foliage in every direction ? In sacred language—its leaves are for the healing of the nation’s from all oppressed lands.
It is a singular circumstance, that while Henry VII. was deprived of the privilege of patronizing Columbus, still the English established the only nation that is truly great in intellectual, moral and physical strength on the Western Continent. The Provinces that were once under Spain, are dark scenes of anarchy. The Italians, the first discoverers, own not a rood of land in America.
They can see towns here more flourishing than132
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their everlasting city, opened to the world by their toil and skill, yet they can boast of none they possess.
While we award merited praise to the discoverers or inventors of what are of great practical importance to mankind, it is due also to Italian skill that its display in the discovery of a New Hemisphere, should be acknowledged in grateful acclamations—by Americans at least.
We were children of Britain in our minority. We are such in our manhood—who is not proud of his descent ?
We have worthy representatives of other nations also. We would not forget the virtues of the Dutch, who in 1614, commenced the foundation of this great State.
In allusion to this subject, well did one of the prominent orators on the anniversary of St. Nicholas Society say :—
“We claim that the glory of the land, which men love to call * The Empire State/ has its well springs in the hearts of these our progen itors. We regard their councils and their deeds as a sacred bequest to memory, with all who nowAMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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enjoy the fruit of the tree which they planted. And we take pleasure in believing, that not only their immediate descendants, but every true son of JYew York, in whatever fart of Europe or America he may care to trace his extraction, is unwilling that the fathers of this State should have their labors obliterated in tradition—is unwilling that the peculiar story of this ancient colony should be merged in other associations, and superseded by the encroaching annals of any sister State.
Each State of our great Republic has a “peculiar story 77 of its origin and progress. To look over these is the delight of youth and age. They remind us of the toils of those who have drawn for us “ lines in pleasant places.” They tell us also that our prosperity is not the fruit of the culture of any one nation exclusively. But that due praise should be awarded to all who took a part in such a glorious work, as that of planting the Tree of Liberty in this Western World.
Dutch prudence and Yankee enterprise change the aspect of th$ natural and moral world.134
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The emigrants from different nations to the New World have, in a great degree, assimilated like the different streams running from the mountains, which unite in one broad and beautiful river.*
It is often asked why the Northmen did not make permanent settlements in America. We answer, that it was no easy task for a people unacquainted with the compass, to cross frequently unknown seas, or for those, unacquainted with fire-arms, to plant themselves among hostile savages ; when we remember that the English did not establish colonies here for upwards of one hundred years after the discovery of the Continent by the Cabots.
Bartholomew Gosnold conceived the idea of a direct course to the New World. In a small vessel, he, in seven weeks, reached Mass. Bay. In 1602 he and four of his men landed at Cape Cod. They were the first Englishmen who trod the shores of New England. He doubled the
* Total number of emigrants into the United States since 1790, living in 1850, together with descendants of emigrants, 4,304,416. Abstract of 7th census.AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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Cape, and landed at the island called Elizabeth —the cluster was named thus after Queen Elizabeth. Here they found noble forests, wild fruits and flowers in profusion. Here Nature seemed to enliven perpetual solitude by exhibiting her choicest beauties. In wild luxuriance flourished the honey-suckle, the pea, strawberries, raspberries, and the vine, in profusion. Here they built the store-house and the fort. The foundation of, as they hoped, the first New England colony.
What a profusion to supply the wants of man. Amid the bounties of Nature, it is well to pause and reflect upon that Almighty source whence all things emanate. Not only such as are necessary for the mere sustenance of life, but those nameless products considered as the luxuries of all bearing mother earth. Truly “ the earth is full of the riches” of the Lord. But these adventurers had to forsake these attractions.
Goznald finding that his friends were about to return to Europe, feared that he could not obtain supplies of food, resolved to leave the136
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country. The whole party now sailed for England.
Discouragements meet the discoverers of Continents as well as those who settle in new states. We are indebted to the toils of both classes ; for they open to those who follow, perennial fountains of public prosperity.
The first prominent settlement was made in the reign of James I.
The first colony had not the power usually given to corporations, of electing their own officers, and of forming their own laws.
They were governed by a council resident in England, and an inferior one in America, both named by the king.
This monarch gave letters patent to the London Company, and to gentlemen from different parts of England, to make settlements in Virginia.
Prom discoveries made in Queen Elizabeth’s reign, the country from the 34° to the 45° was called Virginia. The London Company therefore, in 1607, made the first permanent settlement in Jamestown, forty years however after the Spaniards had built St. Augustine, in Flor-AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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ida. Some of the first buildings remain in the latter place, while the remains of an old church are to be found in the former. 0 memorable land of that Indian princess Pocahontas, who to ward off the fatal axe rushed between death and the doomed victim. Fair spirit of light and love, thou seemest superhuman amid the “ habitations of cruelty ” of thy red race.
The next permanent settlement was made in New Virginia, in what is now called New England.
In the reign of James I. the nonconformists were subjected to penalties, on account of their not conforming to the rituals of the Established Church. Desiring as they supposed a more pure way of worship, they were called Puritans.
Many sought refuge from the grasp of the persecutor in the Western wilds. Oliver Cromwell and his friends would have also emigrated to America, unless they had been prohibited by Charles I. Ah, could the ill fated monarch have been able to raise the veil that conceals future events, would lie not have gladly bid his ambitious executioner depart ?138
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The Company that went from England to Holland after living in Leyden ten years, came in 1620 to the shores of America. Rev. John Robinson their leader, did not accompany them. Their number was one hundred.
We think there is too much credit given to Plymouth, as though it were the first place where the Pilgrims landed after making land in the New World. They first came to a place now called Provincetown, on Cape Cod. It was called Hjarlanes by the Northmen.
It seems to have been a prominent stopping place for those unacquainted with that bleak coast.
At the extremity of this Cape, now an ocean of sand, are the remains of a forest.
All is change on earth and among the starry hosts, and while the first child born among the Northmen was called Snorre, the first one born among the Pilgrims while the Mayflower lay in Provincetown Harbor, was called Perigrine White.
How valuable would that history be, that .would tell of the condition and character ofAMERICAN REVOLUTION,
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the descendants of those who were thus “ rocked in the cradle of the deep.” *
As the end of Cape Cod was rather sandy and desolate, they at last went across the Bay to Plymouth, lying about thirty-two miles southeast of Boston.
We believe Plymouth Rock, is the principal monument remaining to the memory of the Pilgrims ; for while about half their number died the first six months from exposure and other causes, their graves were raised only even with the grass, lest the natives should discover their residence, or the mortality that weakened their numbers. It is said the husband of Isabella Johnson, so conspicuous among the Pilgrims, was buried under the pavement front of “ Stone Chapel,” Boston. This lady resigned the advantages wealth and family confer, for the hardships a wilderness home presented.
* The great sculptor Thorwaldson, whose statuary of Christ and his Apostles, attracts so much attention from the visitors at the Crystal Palace, was a descendant of this Northman child Snorre. The literature of the desolate North opens to our view with as much astonishment and pleasure as some clear spring in the sandy desert.140
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The first Governor Winthrop’s tomb, is seen in the Cemetery of the above venerable church.
The first settlement was made by the English, in New Hampshire, in 1623. They landed at a place two miles from Portsmouth, now called Little Harbor. It is one of the most romantic spots in America. On visiting this place, the house in which the British Governor resided, was still standing. Its spacious hall had some of those implements so often used by hunters in the times of the Barons. Portsmouth, and some of the places around it, as Dover and Exeter, were once separate Republics.
The reminiscences of this quarter are very striking. In early days, so fierce was the spirit of persecution, that one Williams was once sent with a body of armed troops to silence by the sword, as “ with fire from heaven/’ those who taught religious doctrines contrary to their faith. They called to their aid the Tiger of persecution, from which they had just fled in the old world.
Alas ! for poor humanity, when its pathway is not illumined by the “ Son of Righteousness.”AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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So opposed were the people in Portsmouth to the wearing of long hair, that a society was established to prevent its use. The Lieutenant Governor was President thereof.
It is wonderful to see the industry exhibited among the clergy of the old school. Rev. Mr. Moody, a descendant of “John Rogers,” of Smithfield, officiated in the first church built in the south end of Portsmouth. He wrote four thousand sermons.
The late lamented Dr. Parker once showed us a leaf from his manuscript. It was about four or five inches square, and written in beautiful fine letters. How could eyes confined we presume by the hour to heads innumerable, and subdivisions without end, continue to gaze on letters so minute? Our fathers quarried the mines of intellect—the polishing, seems to be left to their less hardy sons.
The church is now standing, and one built in 1713, on whose walls the heads of wolves were nailed. The bounty on such was $5. Near this old South Church in early times, stood the pillory and the cage. In the latter, persons were142
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shut up for violating the Sabbath, <fec. But this state of things then is but an index to what we see in the early history of the other colonies. We smile at the peculiarities of those who even laid the deep foundations of our national greatness.
After the first settlements were made, emigrants increased and colonies multiplied to such a degree, as to excite the jealousy of the parent country. England was as sensible then as are the nations of Europe now, that population is the source of national wealth—and like these she was opposed to the “ drainage ” of the country. Still the “ Star of Empire ” continued to roll Westward.AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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CHAPTER III.
The first settlement in America was Port Royal, now Annapolis. It was made by De Montz in 1605, two years before James river was discovered, and three years before a cabin had been raised by the French in Quebec.
The French, as the first European discoverers of the river Mississippi, claimed all that immense region whose waters run into that river. In pursuance of this claim, in the year 1753, they took possession of a tract of country supposed to be within the chartered limits of Virginia, and were proceeding to erect a chain of posts from the lakes of Canada to the river Ohio, in subserviency to their grand scheme of connecting Canada with Louisiana, and limiting the English colonies to the east of the Alleghanies. Governor Dinwiddie of Virginia, sent the youthful Washington to secure and conciliate the af-144
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flections ofl the Indian tribes, and to remonstrate with the French commander on the Ohio, against the unjust encroachments of the French. In November he started from Will’s Creek, then a frontier town in Virginia. He traversed unknown regions inhabited by hostile natives. Amid rains and snows he crossed rivers difficult to ford. When he could go no farther on horseback, he proceeded on foot with gun in hand and with pack on his back. He went to the forks of the Alleghany and Monongahela where Fort I)u Quesne was afterwards built, now Pittsburgh. There he gained the affections of some Indians who accompanied him to one of the Western branches of the Alleghany. There he found Pierre the French commander, to whom he gave Dinwiddie’s letter.
And what an interesting scene is this amid the dark forests West 1 A young man whose knowledge of wilderness passes and dangerous streams, arose from that derived from his practice as surveyor, presses forward on a mission dear to one ever u first in peace,” to the residence of the French commander. His interviewAMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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did not answer Ms hopes. He retraces his steps towards his home, to make a report of what transpired during his arduous journey. Much did he regret that what he nobly thought, he could not effect.
He probably foresaw the approach of those dark clouds of war, that might soon break in desolating fury on his own beloved land. But the fear of the future, prevents not his exertions in the cause of peace. He still looked for the time he could say the storm of war is over, the light of joy illumes the land.
On the return of Washington, his conduct in relation to securing the aid of the Indians, and in other respects, was highly applauded. A journey that now takes but a few hours in the transaction of business, then took him about seventy-eight days. The desire of the French to extend their empire in America, rendered them deaf to the remonstrances of the Governor of Virginia. To defend their rights, soon a regiment of three hundred men was raised. Washington was appointed Lieutenant Colonel.
Washington, with two companies marched to-146
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wards the scene of contention, although war had not been formally declared between England and Prance. They arrive at the “ Great Meadows.” They establish a fort where they leave part of the men and proceed to the fork of the Alleghany and Monongahela, where the French had recently entered Fort Du Quesne. Soon some friendly Indians reported that the French were as numerous as pigeons, and were hastening to meet the English. Washington retreated to Fort Necessity. A battle ensues. The Americans received the enemy with great resolution. Washington continued the whole day on the outside of the fort, and conducted the defence with the greatest coolness and intrepidity. Col. Fry being dead, Washington took the sole command. The engagement lasted from ten in the morning till evening, and then the French commander demanded a parley and offered terms of capitulation. Washington would accept of no proposals but that of the following honorable ' one. They were mutually agreed on. “ The fort to be surrendered on condition that the garrison should inarch out with the honors ofAMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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war, and be permitted to retain their arms and baggage, and to march unmolested into the inhabited parts of Virginia.77 The Legislature of Virginia, highly impressed with the talent and good conduct of Washington and his troops, voted thanks to Colonel Washington and his officers, and three hundred pistoles to be distributed among the soldiers. Such was the result of the first campaign in the French war. No provision having been made for the prosecution of the war in 1754, Washington resigned his command.
How similar his conduct to that of the illustrious Senator of Rome, who no sooner subdued the enemies of his country, than he retired to his farm. Washington ever preferred the shades of retirement to the bustle of a camp. He fought not for glory, but for his country7s good.
And the increased honors that “ rolling years77 shower down on his memory, prove that “ Republics are not ungrateful.77 Our “ monumental history 77 will show our respect for virtue.
We think it was said of a certain nation that ruled the globe, that their rulers in their lifetime148
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were considered devils, but after their death they were venerated as gods. Not so with us. As Christians we would confer no merit on the dead they did not earn while living.
The controversy about Ohio lands which began in Virginia, was very seriously taken up by Great Britain. To support the claims of England, two regiments were sent to America. They were under the command of General Brad-dock. Before penetrating the dense wilderness where wild beasts roamed, and where savages still more ferocious skulked, he was anxious to have assistance in an enterprise beset with dangers.
Having heard of the worth and valor of Washington, he secured his services as a volunteer and Aid. They move on in hostile array to Wilks Creek, or Fort Cumberland. Washington is taken sick, but instead of staying behind, and while unable to ride on horseback, he is carried in a wagon.
As soon as his strength would permit, he rejoins the army. Braddock crossed the Monon-gahela to assail the enemy at Fort Du Quesne.AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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An invisible enemy consisting of French and Indians, commenced a heavy and well directed fire on his uncovered troops. Marksmen levelled their pieces particularly at officers and others on horseback. Sixty-four officers out of eighty-five were killed.
In a short time Washington was the only Aid left. Two horses were shot under him, and four bullets pierced his coat. But by a merciful Providence he was spared for higher and more ardu ous duties. The horrors of war open on every hand. The Irish veteran meets the foe with more valor than prudence, and after having had three horses shot under him, he receives a mortal wound. He was advised by Washington to let him lead the way with the Provincials, as he knew more about savage warfare than one from a foreign land. His advice was spurned with a frown of scorn. He thought it presumptuous in a young man to pretend to dictate to one of his experience. All the men fought with the greatest bravery, and it is thought that if Washington had had the command, his troops would have been victorious.150
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Sad indeed was that scene, when the body of the intrepid General was committed to the grave —“dust to dust’7 as Colonel Washington read the solemn service of the Church of England.*
What a bright example do the youth of America find in the conduct of Washington.
“ He was ready unto every good word and work.”
“ Nor did he govern only and direct,
But much performed himself.”
The Legislature of Virginia fitted out a third expedition of sixteen companies to march against the French. The regiment was put under the command of Washington.
When we consider the trials of Washington at this time, we may well say of him as was said of one of the great heroes of Greece : He was indeed the man of many woes.
* There indeed we learn that although the glory of man is as the “ dower of the grass,” yet that He who is the resurrection and the life,” will create a new heaven and a new earth wherein dwelleth righteousness.
Such teachings are confessed as true, by the illustrious dead who are daily departing from the land, where heroes fought and bled for all we now enjoy. OClay! where didst thou earn the brightest gem in thy crown of glory, hut on the pillow of death, in confessing thy Saviour?AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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The savages issue from their strong hold, especially at Fort Du Quesne, and slaughter indiscriminately men. women and children. Even his own countrymen fly in dismay at approaching dangers. Agriculture was neglected, and desolation reigned on every hand.
To this young man were committed the destinies of Virginia, embracing a border territory of three hundred and sixty miles. Few of the number of men ordered to be raised were ever ready for duty. Under the nameless trials to which he was subject, he exclaims, “ The supplicating tears of the women, and moving petitions of the men melt me with such deadly sorrow, that 1 solemnly declare, if I know my own mind, I could offer myself a willing sacrifice to the butchering enemy, providing that would contribute to the people’s ease.”*
Washington presses forward with his invincible followers to Fort Du Quesne. The enemy flee.
* Were these words placed in bold relief at the Contribution Box in the “Crystal Palace” (this year, 1853), for the collection of funds for a Monument to his memory, would not such be increased in amount ?152
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The third campaign was at length victorious. For when William Pitt came into the ministry, he raised supplies for prosecuting the war successfully. Soon the French were despoiled of all their possessions except New Orleans, and some plantations on the Mississippi. The colonists had to mourn the loss of the pride of the Northern army—General Wolfe, who fell at Quebec. The glories of New France pass away forever. Her rival triumphs for a short time in her new won domains.AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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CHAPTER IV.
The patriotic historian in presenting facts of a sanguinary nature, has not the sensations of Pluto the god of the dead
“ Who feels no mercy And who hears no prayers—”
hut he recounts deeds of blood to complete the narration of his country’s history. It is his duty rather than pleasure, to exhibit the dark side of the picture of human nature.
Soon after the French war, that of the American Revolution commenced. One that even the Archbishop of New York justifies, as it originated in the will of the oppressed majority. We write not to renew hostile feelings in the breasts of those of our Fatherland, but to set forth those facts with which our youth and others should be familiar. The friendship that the enlarged spirit of Christianity, and facilities of154
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steam navigation have engendered, is too deeply rooted in the hearts of the people of both countries, to be loosened by our feeble efforts to diffuse information.
Truth should be presented in the spirit of good will.
In 1763, notice was given of the intention of Parliament to tax the colonists. Immediately the inquiry was made—What right has the British Parliament to tax us, as we have no representatives in the House of Commons ?
Is not the main pillar of the British Constitution this, that no people ought to be taxed unless through the medium of their representatives ? If we are to be taxed, let Parliament leave our fiscal concerns to be conducted on the floor of our own councils.
This taxation without representation was the pivot on which the American Revolution turned. Patrick Henry of the Old Dominion, gloriously took the lead, or was one of such in the great work of the Revolution, and of forming the Constitution.
Mr. Webster finely observes, “The house ofAMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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Delegates of Virginia, on the 21st of January, 1786, performed the first act in the transaction of measures which resulted in the general Constitution. The honor is her’s ; let her enjoy it ; let her forever wear it proudly ; there is not a brighter pearl in the tiara that adorns her brow.”
The first tax imposed on American commerce was in 1764. On the following year Mr. Grenville’s famous stamp act was enforced.
Parliament thought that as the Americans would be under the necessity of using paper in the ordinary transactions of business, this would be a law that would execute itself.
But members found themselves mistaken ; for it produced such a commotion among the colonists, that they were under the necessity of repealing it the very next year.
Charles Townsend, Chancellor of the Exchequer, immediately after the repeal of the Stamp Act, introduced a bill to raise a revenue from the colonists, by imposing a duty on paper, glass, painter’s color, and tea.
And the British minister acknowledged that he considered the imposition as unjust as any156
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act which had been previously repealed ; but urged its continuance that the authority of Parliament might be preserved.
Few like the Earl of Chatham, were disposed to step forward in defence of the oppressed Americans.
Rather than pay three cents per pound tax on tea, a number of the Bostonians dressed like savages, rushed forth at night and threw three hundred and forty chests of tea overboard.*
To enforce the revenue laws and to dragoon the Bostonians into duty, the British sent over a body of troops under General Gage. Continued quarrels ensued between the British soldiers and the citizens.
In 1770, an affray took place in King street, now called State street. The citizens were headed by a black man named Attucks. This leader and three of his associates fell in the affray. This was on the 5th of March.
* We had the pleasure of hearing a lecture from the late B. B. Thatcher, Esq., in Cambridge port Lyceum, on the “ Tea Party.” Many facts were obtained from the late Mr. Pierce of Boston, who was one of the party. Some of the tea. we think, is preserved in Cambridge University.AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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As this measure produced much excitement, its anniversary was kept at which orations were given.
Perhaps the most celebrated among the speakers was General Warren. His oration in 1771 had an electrical effect. In this discourse he made this remarkable declaration, “ An independence on Great Britain is not our aim.—No, our wish is, that Britain and the colonies may like the oak and the ivy, grow and increase together/7
But kind heaven ordained that we should not always resemble the parasitic plant—remaining in a dependent condition. The ivy has been transformed to a tree, and one like that spoken of in the 80th Psalm—“ It has tilled the land, and the hills are covered with its shadow.77 *
At length a body of British troops were sent to destroy some military stores at Concord, seventeeen miles from Boston. Colonel Smith was at the head of the troops. They were met
* We have often noticed the old yellow house in which General or Dr. Warren resided, in the eastern part of Roxbury, Massachusetts.158
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on the way by some militia, at Lexington, nine miles from Boston.
A battle ensued, and there on the 19th of April, 1775, the first blood was spilled in defence of American liberty.*
When last in Boston, we visited John Hancock, descendant of the illustrious patriot of that name, who gave some <£70,000 to prosecute the war of the Revolution. His house is still standing near the Capitol, Beacon street. From this house of peculiar architecture, Mrs. Hancock amused herself in looking out on the Common, where the British troops were drilled.
This rencounter excited the attention of every American. Farmers left their ploughs in the furrows, and enrolled themselves in the ranks of their country.
The British troops move on to Concord, where they destroyed a few military stores. On their
* The tombs of the lamented dead are to be seen here in the cemetery of the old church, or the one erected soon after the battle. We were told on first entering that place, that the bullet hole under a peach tree climbing on an old white house, was made on the occasion of that skirmish.AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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way back they were incessantly harassed from the coverts of the Americans.
Though fatal in its immediate results, yet how celebrated the battle of Bunker Hill. This eminence is in Charlestown, on the opposite side of Charles river, from Boston.
Sad was the day when Charlestown was in ashes, and Warren was breathing his last on the adjoining hill.
There stands the massive granite column that will tell as with the reflected rays of revolving suns to future generations, the noble deeds of their forefathers. 0 may that spirit of enlightened patriotism that actuated them never abate its ardor—never permit Goth or Vandal to prostrate it in the dust, made ignoble by the tread of despots.*
* We know the lovers of history, and especially those who honor one who by Baron Von Humboldt is called the greatest among historians, will be pleased to learn the remarks of Prescott, on our interesting visit at his library, Boston.
Just as we were leaving, one as remarkable for his affability as learning, he pointed out to us two swords lying peacefully crossing each other on the upper shelf. He observed that the one was used by his grandfather, Colonel Prescott, who commanded a redoubt at the battle of Bunker’s Hill, and that the160
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On the following June, 1776, Congress being assembled in Philadelphia, George Washington, the young hero of the French war, was appointed Commander-in-chief of the American troops. He soon came to Cambridge, Massachusetts, to take command of the army.
The majestic elm under which he addressed his forces, still waves proudly on the Common.
The remarkable house on the road that leads to Mount Auburn, where he resided, is now occupied by Professor Longfellow, of Harvard University.*
Oppressive treatment, compelled Congress on the memorable 4th of July, 1776, to declare
other was wielded by his wife's grandfather, a British officer, who on that occasion commanded a small vessel that lay in an arm of the Mystic river. Before we went away, he remarked, while the cannon were roaring in commemoration of the event on Bunker’s Hill, “ this is the day, the 17th of June, on which the battle was fought.” What a chapter of coincidences opened in the presence of one whose historical works are the admiration of Europe, and the glory of his own country.
* So interesting are the reminiscences of the Revolution around Boston and elsewhere, that we once heard a lecture on such, by a distinguished editor residing in Cambridge. He drew his rich materials from the newspapers of those times.AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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their constituents independent of the crown of Great Britain.
By this glorious act, the captive eventually throws off those chains that dampened his energies, not to run a career of lawless liberty, but to rear up that fabric of Freedom, that should be the asylum of the oppressed of all nations—the abode of those virtues that live only amid the retreats of liberty, enlightened and enlivened by the light of Christianity.
This was the first step taken, to solve the problem, whether a free and Christian people can govern themselves.
The elegant author of the life of Jelferson thus speaks of the result of this his great production.
“ It is the sun of the political universe. It is the focus of revolutionary light and heat, from which have issued those kindred rays and impulses, which have warmed and enlightened, and agitated and plunged into kindred convulsions, for the recovery of their just rights—the oppressed in almost every part of the earth. It laid the foundation of the first great and sue-162
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cessful experiment of a free government—whose greatness in the scale of empire will one day enable it, if it should so please, to dictate to all other governments.”
Ah! could this writer have witnessed the results of this instrument, as seen in our prosperous condition of 1858, would he not have exclaimed
“ Hail to the harbinger ! hail to its light and splendor,
It comes like a seraph from heaven !
Yea from heaven, and fresh with glory.”
Congress proceeded on the 2d of July, to consider the Declaration of Independence. The debates were continued with unremitting heat through the 2d, 3d and 4th days of July, till on the evening of the last—the most important day politically speaking the world ever saw—they were brought to a close.
Through the long and doubtful and important conflict sat Mr. Jefferson, a silent though not an unimpassioned witness of the furnace of disquisition that was trying the product of his own mind. Yes, the fruit of his own prolific genius, although some have vainly tried to pluck fromAMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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his brow the laurel that truth has entwined around it.*
* The ready anil good-humored Dr. Franklin, sitting near Mr. Jefferson, and seeing him agonising under the severity of the strictures, related in his ear, by way of comfort, the following anecdote:
“ t have made it a rule, whenever it is in my power, to avoid becoming the draughtsman of papers to be reviewed by a public body. I took my lesson from an incident which I will relate to you. When 1 was a journeyman printer, one of my companions, an apprentice hatter, having served out his time, was about to open a shop for himself. His first concern was to have a handsome signboard, with a proper inscription. He composed it in these words: ‘John Thompson, Hatter, makes and sells hats for ready money] with the figure of the hat subjoined. But he thought he would submit it to his friends for their amendments. The first he showed it to, thought the word ‘ hatter] tautologous, because followed byr the words ‘ makes hats] which shows he was a hatter. It was struck out The next observed, that the word ‘makes ] might as well be omitted, because his customers would not care who made the hats; if good, and to their minds, they would buy, by whomsoever made. He struck it out A third said he thought the words tfor ready money] were useless,, as it was not the custom of the piace to sell on credit; every one who purchased expected to pay. They were parted with, and the. inscription now stood, ‘ John Thompson, sells hats.*
‘ Sells hats ! * says his next friend; £ why, nobody will expect you to give them away. What then, is the use of the word r* It was stricken out; and ‘ hats* followed, the rather, as there was one painted on the board : so his inscription was reduced, ultimately, to • John Thompson/ with the figure of the hat subjoined.”164
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The visitor to the “ city of brotherly love,” delights to go to the library of the American Philosophical Society, where he may see the chair in which the statesman—the sage of Monticello sat when he penned that immortal instrument. To enter that “ Independence Hall ” where all things remain as they were when the Fathers of our country signed the Charter of our Freedom.
These stationary objects in this other “ cradle of liberty,” remind us of the history of that event, just as the stars ever holding their relative position in the heavens, call to our recollection, the discoveries of the Chaldean and other astonomers of remote periods.
The bell in the State House, which originally came from England, was broken in 1752, and was recast, then at which time these words were placed upon it,
“ Proclaim liberty throughout the land, and to all the people thereof.”
What multitudes continually mount up on high to see this relic, whose responses once quickened a nation into new life.AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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CHAPTER Y.
Dark indeed were the prospects at the opening of the Revolution. We were without men and money. He who rules among the nations of the earth, overruling all things to promote his glory, and secure the happiness of his children, provided means for our deliverance.
While our money at one time was almost worthless, so that it would not procure a bushel of wheat for the services of a private four months, and would not pay a Colonel for the oats his horse wanted, Franklin, at the Court of Ver-seilles, induces his Most Christian Majesty to loan us six million livres, and to be security for ten millions of livres from the United Netherlands.
And when the hearts of our people were sinking into lethargy, La Fayette arrives, and re-166
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vives them by assurances that France would soon send to our relief an army and fleet.
Our troops “ hungry and thristy ” were few in numbers. When the Chevalier Terney and Count Rochambeau who commanded the fleet and army, came to our aid, not more than a thousand men had joined the American army.
At length the eventful day arrives. One that was enough to warm the soul and awaken the devotion of the stoic. It was when the Independence of our country was achieved. Lord Cornwallis being in possession of York Town, Virginia, it was invested by Washington and the French allies. A final victory was obtained by the Americans, October 19, 1781.
Terms of submission were honorable to both armies. British prisoners were not as in ancient Rome, called to march under the Triumphal Arch, to grace the victory of the Conqueror— they were not forced to lie down that the triumphant might put their feet on their necks ; but they were allowed to leave the scene of action on the*mild terms the spirit of Christianity dictated.AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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The regular troops of America and France employed in this siege, consisted of about 5,500 of the former, and 7,000 of the latter—they were assisted by about 4,000 militia. Congress honored Washington, the French and other officers, and the men, with thanks for their services at this closing scene.
But freshly added glories cluster around the name of Washington by the following order :— “ Divine service shall be performed to-morrow in the different brigades and divisions.77
In gratitude he could exclaim, “ Dens nobis Juzc otiafecit” God hath given to us this rest.
Yes, this great victory was the harbinger of peace. At length Sir Guy Carlton, who had succeeded Sir Henry Clinton as Commander-in-chief of the British troops in America, arrived in New York, and announced in successive communications, the increasing probability of a speedy peace. The heavenly messenger at length came. Intelligence arrived in March, 1783, that preliminary and eventual articles of peace had been signed between the United States and Great Britain, on the 30th of the preceding November.168
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The following remarks of W. A. Duer, LL. D., though relating to a scene that was displayed subsequent to the Revolution, can not be uninteresting to our readers. It relates to an event, the Inauguration of Washington, occurring in New York, April 30th, 1789.
“ This auspicious ceremony took place under the portico of the Federal Hall, upon the balcony in front of the Senate Chamber, in the immediate presence of both houses of Congress, and in full view of the crowds that thronged the adjacent streets. The oath was administered by Chancellor Livingston, and when the illustrious chief had kissed the book, the Chancellor, with a loud voice, proclaimed, “ Long live George Washington, President of the United States.” Never shall I forget the thrilling effect of the thundering cheers which burst forth, as from one voice, peal after peal from the assembled multitude. Nor was it the voices alone, of the people that responded to the announcement, their hearts beat in unison with the echoes resounding through the distant streets ; and many a tear stole down the rugged cheeks8UG A R IIOUSE IN LIBE R T Y S T R LE [' .AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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of the hardiest of the spectators, as well I noted from my station in an upper window of the neighboring house of Colonel Hamilton.*
The seat of the General Government was removed from New York to Philadelphia, by the influence of Senator Morris of Pennsylvania, the great Financier of the Revolution. The Amsterdamers were so opposed to this step, that they showed their resentment in a caricature, in which they represented the Senator like Atlas
* It is well known, that when General Washington was coming to be Inaugurated as President, the ladies met him on the Asanpink bridge, in Trenton, New Jersey. An arch was thrown over the bridge, and while the hero marched under it, his way was strewed with flowers by the ladies.
When in that city, so prominent for reminiscences of the Revolution, we went to the house where resided the relict of the Rev. Mr. Armstrong, who was Chaplain to General Washington, in the war ot the Revolution.
In the room was suspended a frame, inclosing a letter of thanks from the General to the ladies, for the favors received on that occasion. This aged lady was one of the matrons on that memorable occasion.
Under this same arch La Fayette marched also on his visit to this country- The wood of this relic is sold to the lovers of antiquity. To such as those mentioned by Mr. Clay, in the Senate room of the United States, who gazed in rapture on a broken goblet he had, once used by Washington.170
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sustaining the globe, marching off with the Federal Hall on his shoulders, its windows crowded with members of both Houses—whilst his Satanic Majesty enthroned on the roof of Powles Hook Ferry House, beckoned to Mr. Morris.
While we consider the trials of those who have led us by their light, and made us wise by their wisdom, it is well to contrast our privileges with theirs.
The founders of Boston, for some time lived mainly on muscles and other shell-fish. Hungry and thristy, their soul fainted in them.
And although they “ cried unto the Lord who fed them,” yet no miracles were wrought in their behalf, as were those for the Israelites.
During the Revolution, one time the troops of Washington were almost naked. Some had only one shirt, others only parts of such—others none at all.* They had to walk barefooted over the fields in winter. Soap, vinegar, and such like articles, though allowed by Congress
* That class in Philadelphia, who are ever first in ministering to human wants, contributed funds for the relief of the hungry and naked.AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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were not seen in the camp for several weeks. Two thousand eight hundred and ninety-eight of his army was unfit for duty.
But above all, he was “ wounded in the house of his friends.” Some members of Congress and a few officers, were plotting to supercede him in his command. It was even reported that he intended to resign.
“ Ev’n he who noblest lives, lives but to sigh.
The right not shields from wrong, nor worth from wo,
Nor glory from reproach ; he found it so.”
But though anxious to taste the domestic sweets of home, he would not leave that station where he believed Providence had placed him, for the good of his oppressed country.
This great apostle of liberty emphatically overcame evil with good.
In early times letters sent from Europe were brought to Boston, and thrown promiscuously in a public place for the selection of those to whom they might belong. After a while, the following resolution was passed by the town authorities. Whereas, the merchants and others of Boston, are greatly damnified in not having their172
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letters, &c., in season, it is ordained that a Post Office be established in the house of Mr. Fairbanks.
It is well to see the almost invisible results, from which the broad and deep streams of our national prosperity flow.
We saw in the Library of the Antiquarian Hail, Worcester, Massachusetts, a copy of the first newspaper printed in America. The Boston News Letter of 1704. It was a dark sheet, not much larger than a sheet of Foolscap.* It had a remarkable advertisement—one for the sale of negroes in Boston. Though slavery is an evil, yet it will be well for the abolitionists to remember what was done as above stated, in the North. Let those who are without sin in this particular, “ cast the first stone/7 whether at home, or in England.
Laws were originally promulgated at New Haven, by constables at public meetings, by repeating them verbally. This was before printing was introduced.
* And how wide and lonaj is that stream that has flown from this obscure rivulet. On June 1st, 1850, the number of Newspapers and Periodicals in the United Stales, was 2,800 !AMERICAN REVOLUTION*	173
A though now New England is considered as the principal fountain of knowledge, yet, in early times, information was limited mainly to one sex. The daughters of Secretary Morton, of Plymouth, in giving their signature, made their cross +•	“ Wisdom did not perish” with
these ladies.
In 1688, Sir Edmund Andros, “ glittering in gold and lace,” was sent to take from the New Englanders their charters. Report came to Hartford, that a debate on this subject was to be had between Andros and Governor Treat.
Numbers assemble—lights are furnished—soon they are extinguished. Captain Wadsworth seizes the charter and conveys it to the old oak tree, where it remained two years. It is still hung up in the State House, Hartford. This man roamed about like some spirit of darkness to destroy the verdant plants of liberty, till his imprisonment and recal, on the accession of William and Mary.*
* Before presenting to a large audience of young ladies in “Troy Female Seminary” a branch trorn the “Charter Oak,” Mrs. Emma W illard begged leave to state that when174
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It is melancholy to remark, that religious privileges were too often denied by our own people to their Protestant brethren. The field of History as well as that of countries has its dismal morasses. The history of our Puritan and Dutch ancestors, proves the fact. We would show the effects of this bigotry hereafter. Now, all can worship unmolested when and where they please.
It is well to consider the moral lessons our early history imparts.
seventeen years of age she wrote a poem on this Tree. She recited from what introduced her into the first society of the State, the following lines:
“ And art thou then that venerated tree, which patriot like
Hast borne within thy bosom thy country's dearest right.”
A high fence, like the Dragon at the garden of Hesperides, guards this old tree from the assaults of the curious.AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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CHAPTER YI.
It is said the prosperity of ancient Egypt was preserved by this important custom. The King was under the necessity of reading daily in public, an account of the exploits of their predecessors, that thereby, being constantly reminded of their virtues, they might be led to imitate them. For a similar purpose, let us consider the conduct of some who were conspicuous for their virtues at different periods of the History of our country.
Do we claim the inalienable right of the liberty of thought, let us consider the conduct and trials of one who was its first advocate in America.
This was Roger Williams, Minister of Salem, Massachusetts. The first church in that city stands where he first unfurled the banner of re-176
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ligious freedom, by declaring that the civil authorities had no right to enforce the observance of any particular creed, or punish any one for nonconformity to any particular mode of worship.
In Christ/s Church yard, Philadelphia, you may see the plain slab that covers the remains of Franklin ; but, in Providence, Rhode Island, we could no where find the grave of Williams. His monument, as well as those of the illustrious of all ages, is in the memory of the grateful.
“ If Copernicus is held in perpetual reverence because on his death-bed he published to the world, that the sun is the centre of our system. If the genius of Newton is almost adored for dissecting a ray of light, and weighing the heavenly bodies as in a balance, let there be for Roger Williams, at least, some humble place among those who have adorned moral science, and made themselves the benefactors of mankind.77
An humble place ! Ah ! no—award him the highest niche in the temple of fame ; for he was the friend of the red man, and the advocate ofAMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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intellectual freedom. Can the sun of philosophy warm the heart, while the clouds of bigotry darken the mind ?
We can learn a lesson of kindness even from savages. The divine image is not utterly effaced from the hearts of those who can discern the attributes of Deity from the things that are made. Ah, yes! the modest violet, fresh from the long sleep of winter, tells to such, there is a God—that he is great and good.
The bigotry of the Puritans would banish Williams from Salem. It was decreed he should be transported over the Atlantic. Eluding his enemies, he fled South. “ For fourteen weeks he was sorely tossed in a bitter season, not knowing what bed or bread did mean. In gratitude, he says, the ravens fed me in the wilderness. The barbarian heart of Canonicus, chief of the Naragansetts, loved him as his son to the last gasp.”
But one of the most interesting scenes ever witnessed, opened in Pennsylvania. Behold the lover of peace as he approaches the natives who, are assembled under a large tree, to perfect178
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a treaty.* Penn appeared without an armed force to awe the red men into the adoption of plans favorable to his interests. He comes with emblems of peace. He makes presents to Sachems, and pays them for their lands. And what was the consequence of this course ? The uninterrupted harmony between the whites and Indians for some seventy years.
Were all rulers as pacific as this Friend, effects in the moral world would be like the rising of the sun in the natural—as when
“ Night wanes—the vapors round the mountain curl’d, Melt into mom, and light awakes the world.”
We would not pass unnoticed the kindness of Washington, after the battle of Trenton.
In the campaign of 1776, Washington encountered at Trenton, the Hessian forces, under Colonel Rahl, Losberg and General Kniphausen, consisting of 1500 men, and a troop of British light horse. In the bloody conflict, Colonel
* On visiting Trenton, New Jersey, so replete with historical recollections, we obtained a piece of the wood of this Elm tree that was prostrated by a storm in 1810. It stood in Kensington, Philadelphia.AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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Rahl was mortally wounded. We visited the Head Quarters of the Hessians, in Trenton. In that old building, this mercenary lay in the agonies of death. Washington came as a ministering spirit, to see the suffering foe. He did everything possible to relieve the pains of the dying.
No chill shadows froze the warm current of his noble heart, when the wants of even an enemy were known.
Too many are regardless of these interesting reminiscences, as seen in the following instance. We saw a man who had boarded four years in this place where Rahl died, and had never seen the bullet hole now seen in the window, as made at that time, and by a ball that killed a man in an upper room.
Would we learn a lesson of patriotism, let us consider the devotion of Warren and others.
To animate his countrymen in the cause of liberty, in order to address them, he rushes into the window in the rear of the Old South, Boston. There, with an eloquenee worthy his exalted mission, he appealed to his fellow citizens to180
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maintain their sacred rights. His ardor was not damped by the glittering arms of the British present.
And when he was advised not to go up to the battle of Bunker Hill, he answered, “ 0, it is sweet to die for one;s country.”
The goodness of his heart was strikingly seen in his incessant efforts to suppress mobs—those destroyers of domestic peace.
The limits of our work do not allow us to enumerate the many instances of patriotism among the worthies of the Revolution. We would mention one more as seen in the declaration of one who rose from an humble situation to one of eminence.
Samuel Adams made this remarkable declaration : “ I would advise our persevering in this struggle for liberty, though it were revealed from Heaven that nine hundred and ninety-nine out of one thousand would perish in obtaining it—because the happiness of one freeman was greater than that of nine hundred and ninety-nine slaves/
It would be as useless to speak of WashingtonAMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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as the fountain of patriotism, as to direct the eye to the sun as the source of light. The little child learns among his first lessons, all these qualities that adorned the character of the Father of our country.
And what a contrast between the few patriots we have named, and that man whose sun of fame went down in a dark cloud at mid day ? The character of Arnold in the annals of our country appears as a dangerous rock to the mariner in the pathless sea.*
How true the saying, that every one is the artificer of his own fortune, as seen in that of Arnold, Andre, and others more fortunate.
He may rise to celestial heights or sink like stars to rise no more.
Would we teach the virtue of forgiveness, when insults are olfered, let us present the pacific temper of Washington.
In 1754, he was stationed as Colonel over a
* In the rear of one of the churches in New Haven, we saw the grave of one of the regicides of Charles I., Colonel Dixwell. A monument has been built to the memory of this judge, on the spot where he was buried- The house where General Arnold lived is in this city.182
EVENTS OF THE
body of troops in Virginia, being about twenty-two years of age. Giving some offence to Mr. Payne, he was knocked down. But instead of resisting the insult by exposing his life in a duel at the bloody shrine of the “ Law of Honor,” he forgave his foe. This circumstance occurred at Alexandria, District of Columbia. The house where the event happened was pointed out to us on a visit to that city.
For the want of this heavenly spirit of forgiveness, how many valuable lives have been thrown away in mortal combat. The true valor animating the patriot and the Christian, was seen in the life of Washington—not in the useless duel, but when necessity called in the defence of liberty. True courage is shown only in a rightful cause. The man of true courage is ready to say, “ though the heaven’s rush to ruin I must be up and doing the thing that is right.”
Would we look for an example to guide us to the throne of Grace—this we may find on the banks of the Hudson.
There while darkness and silence reign, under the broad canopy of Heaven, the man of GodAMERICAN REVOLUTION*
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kneels in ardent supplication. Who implores favors from Him whose temple is all space ? Is it one who has been betraying the interests of his country ? Is it some one who has been “ wallowing in the mire ” of licentiousness ? Ah, no ! it is one in whom all excellencies concentrate —one who confessed his sinfulness before Him who “ charges his angels with folly.” Washington, we respect thee for thy patriotism and valor; but we love thee for thy piety.
The opening landscape of the vernal season is not more attractive to one who admires all that is beautiful in nature, than a survey of the wide field of events our early history presents*184
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CHAPTER VII.
In our past survey, we have seen in the deeds of our forefathers, the grand cause of our present condition. Their deeds are a portion of our country’s glories.
“We will turn from the heroic past, to the glowing present and its sure and still grander future.”
The sun in his annual tour shines on no lovelier spot than America. And if in his eternal career his chariot should stop, it would not like that of the Goddess Juno, rest in Carthage, the city of Dido, but in the land of Washington.
The stream of our national prosperity widens rapidly. New states are forming in the wilderness, and even where silence of late was broken but by the dashing of the waves of the Pacific. Canals intersecting our plains and crossing ourAMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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highlands, open new channels of commerce. Manufactures multiply along our streams. Steam annihilates distance. We write on business or friendship to the extremity of the Continent, with lightning. Knowledge is rapidly diffused through all classes. Rapid is the progress of our wealth, especially in opening the flaming mines. No national debt arrests the tide of our prosperity. The revenue, this year, 1853, is upwards of $60,000,000—the surplus $32,000,000.* Population, the source of national wealth, doubles in every twenty or twenty-two years.
While at the commencement of the Revolution, the population was but about three millions, it is supposed in 1890, it will be seventy-two millions, and that fifty-two of this will be beyond the mountains. O visions of future glory, excelled by none save such as prophets saw ere the world’s hope came.
* Our General Government is so wealthy, it is said they know not what to do with the surplus fund. Ah, that a part could be appropriated to the emancipation of slaves. The Father of our country thought slavery an evil, and that it should he abolished by Legislative enactments. In such a work the North and South could unite.186
EVENTS OF THE
Religion is supported by voluntary contribution. Merging from the darkness of error and superstition, she sits high on a throne of light and love.
Our national blessings can be preserved but by the increase of knowledge and piety, and a strict observance of the General Constitution. It is enlightened public opinion only, that will be the guardian of our rights. “ This only will plant a watchman around our dwellings.77 Virtue is the panoply of nations as well as of individuals.
May the mighty stream of knowledge be augmented through the medium of the Press—the Legislative halls—the pulpit and the institutions of learning.
Let youth, in particular, be early taught the principles unfolded by the General Constitution. May this be to the citizens what the Bible is to Christians—his guide as a politician. Its importance is strikingly exhibited in that immortal work, the “ Federalist.77 Its best commentary. It observes,
“ It is impossible for the man of pious reflec-AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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tion not to perceive in it the finger of that Almighty hand which has been so frequently and signally extended to our relief, in the earliest stages of the Revolution.”
It is well to trace the bright impressions of his hand amid the changes of earth, as well as among those celestial orbs that move in harmony by his fixed laws.
Here truly the people are the sovereigns of the nation. All power, though exercised through the medium of their representatives, emanates from them.
May our liberty be ever under the guidance of enlightened patriotism. May this be known especially in the choice we make of those who are to frame, expound and execute our laws. Ours, it is said, is the only representative government ever known.*
* A Democratic Legislative Assembly is the great miracle of the kingdom of Norway. This body is called the IScorthing. Ttie will of its members, who are elected by the free suffrages of the people, becomes the supreme law of the land. Every native Norwegian, of the age of twenty-five, possessing property of life interest in land, to the amount of $140, or who is a burgess of a town, can elect, and when thirty years oid, can be elected.188
EVENTS OF THE
Since the organization of our Government, crisis after crisis has succeeded, but all have been happily surmounted by public virtue, and some redeeming qualities incidental to the exercise of constitutional rights.
May the excitements of the North, which fan the flame of jealousy in the South, be the means of uniting more firmly the friends of our common country.
May the Northerner and the Southerner—the Backwoodsman and the Down Easter, meet together, and shake hands around the altar of patriotism and freedom, reared by the united labors and mutual compromises of the heroes and sages of '76.
“ Blessed indeed are the peace makers, for they shall be called the children of God.” Let all others be considered as the devotees of such deities, as those who conferred the highest honors on those who slayed the greatest number of their fellow men in the field of battle. Did not the God of war in Mexico, have more votaries than the benevolent divinity, while he held out to his worshippers all the joys of paradise, as aAMERICAN REVOLUTION.
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reward for taking prisoners to be immolated on his bloody shrine? War is not the choice of Christians. It is only their defence.*
If true to our trust, as a united people, we shall march on together to the dominion of North America.
0 land of the Pilgrims, and the oppressed of all nations—purchase of the blood of our forefathers—adorned with the temples of science and religion, rich in soil spread over different climes—the admiration of the friends of constitutional liberty every where. Who can portray the expansive influence thou art destined to exert in the moral renovation of man ?
America! the home of the free spirit of mankind, is like a young giant “refreshed with wine,” and rejoicing to run his race. Who can define bounds to thy unchained strength, or curb
* While we write, there is a report that war has been declared between Russia and Turkey. Rut we can hardly believe that the peace of Europe is to be broken after so long a repose under the influence of Christianity. Will the spirit that has so often called for a “ Congress of Nations ” permit in this enlightened day, when Continents are united by steam power and its several benefits, sister countries to war with each other ?190
EVENTS OF THE
thy swiftness, in thy onward career ? It were easier to stay the progress of the swelling tides, than to obstruct thy advance in national glory.
In conclusion, may we not exclaim in view of the condition of the worthies of the American Revolution, with more than Pagan faith,
“ In heaven’s high temple now with honors crown’d, Immortal laurels every brow surround.”Ipjnttitu
What a striking resemblance between the mode of erecting the Washington Monument and that of laying the foundation of our Republic. In the former case, the different states are sending in their respective specimens of “ blocks ” to complete the glorious structure, so, at the opening of the Revolution, the different colonies gave their united aid to perfect the greatest work of any age. If all did not start together in the great race for freedom, yet all reached at the same time the resplendent goal of Independence. Were we asked what particular colonies took the lead in this mighty struggle, we should answer the Old Dominion and Bay State. There they are with laurels still fresh on their brow.
That young man of prominent talents seems to have taken the lead in Virginia, on the memorable resolutions of 1765, against the Stamp192
APPENDIX.
Act. The eloquence of Patrick Henry was that of nature, and overwhelming. His genius rose with the exigencies of the occasion, and like the prince of Grecian orators, he thundered, he lightned, and like a torrent, he bore all before him. Though a host of men, honest in their views, as Wythe, Peyton, Randolph, &c., were opposed to him, yet the resolution was carried through by a single vote. This rivulet soon widened into a broad stream. It embraced in a short time all the other colonies in its course.*
The committees of correspondence originated in Massachusetts, in 1772, and in Virginia, in 1773. The former were provincial, as they were for a correspondence among the several towns— the latter were national, as they were for a correspondence among the different colonies.
James Otis, Warren, the Hancock’s, and the Adams’s, were bright stars that first appeared in the constellation that arose to dispel the darkness of the Western World. But after all, darkness rests over that patriotic breast where the first spark of this vast event originated. Where hon-
* A sister of Henry is still living at the South.APPENDIX.
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ors are due to all, it is not well to discriminate between the respective merits of any. All, all like that heavenly sign in “ Taurus,” pointed but to that Polar Star Liberty, as the only object worthy the pursuit of those who would not be lost in the search after happiness over the field of life.
We know no North, no South, as the special repository where we may present our “ thank-offerings ” for the legacy they left us.
It is difficult, if necessary, at this late day, to compare the birth, and trace the relative progress of opinions of sages and. patriots from North and South, whose practical application has led to the political regeneration of half the world. It is thought in the promulgation of principles that established things on a right basis, the author of the Declaration of Independence was ahead of his contemporaries.
The fire of patriotism burned not only in the hearts of one sex. On the imposition of an unjust tariff by the mother country, “ the ladies who are never permitted to be greatest, but on the greatest occasions—relinquished without a194
APPENDIX.
struggle, all the elegances, the embellishments, and even the comforts to which they had been accustomed. The ladies did what they could in this glorious cause. As females have as deep an interest in the results of the Revolution as men, it may not be improper to make some remarks on the social position they should maintain, under the General Government they indirectly at least aided in founding. Woman has a rank assigned her under different forms of society. In the savage state, she by the power of the other sex, is made their slaves. In civilized and enlightened communities she, although equal in intellectual endowments with man, becomes his helpmate. And in the storms of the Revolution she acted as such. She did not, as too many females do at the present day, assume the responsibilities of those professions, that by the laws of nature and the custom of enlightened society are considered as peculiarly belonging to their brothers and husbands. The queen of flowers loses half its charms if forced to bloom amid common plants, so women, the most beautiful of Creation’s last and best work, isAPPENDIX.
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shorn of her peculiar attractions, by mingling in the pursuits of the world at large. The light of the domestic circle fades away also when she who is its main source, wanders abroad to fill a sphere she is not called to occupy.
How attractive those places where important events of the Revolution occurred.
A few years since, we had a delightful morning’s walk along the banks of the Hudson, where the beautiful and sublime in nature combine to increase an interest in those localities, where striking incidents of the Revolution happened. W e stopped at that little stream where the horse of Andre slaked his thirst, and where the three real patriots captured the unfortunate young man.
The English having possession of New York, anxious to subdue the rebel colonists, were aware of the necessity of securing their strong holds to effect this object. One of the most fascinating of their young officers is selected to act as spy, and thereby induce Gen. Benedict Arnold to give up to the British the important post of West Point. Arnold sells his country196
APPENDIX.
for fancied superior advantages than it could afford. Andre leaves the fort in transport, under the reflection that he had done his country good service in the offered boon. His papers of contract for the delivery of West Point, were concealed in his boot to avoid detection. On being seized at the brook of Tarrytown, how eloquent in his promises to these men if they W'ould only let him go. By so doing, honors and wealth awaited them at head quarters. Sensible of his guilt, they were deaf to his entreaties. For they loved the liberty of their country more than riches and honor.
Near this small stream, which should be considered more famous than the broad stream over which Csesar built his intricate bridge on his way to conquer his one thousand cities, stands a little Dutch church, in which Andre was confined after his capture. He paid the penalty of his crime on the opposite side of the river. Gladly would the Head of our army have saved him from an ignominious death if justice had permitted. But he could not even give him his choice between being shot or hung. Mercy dropsAPPENDIX.
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a tear over what justice sternly demands. May the heavenly messenger never have cause to plead again under like circumstances.
This event accurring about thirty miles north of New York.—-September 23, 1780, is one of the most important events of that period. Had Andre been permitted to pass, integrity would have been sold, and treachery would have thrown back, perhaps at a long space, the wheels of the Revolution.
We therefore applaud the patriotism of those citizens of Westchester County, who have lately contributed liberally for the erection of a monument, to the memory of the captors of Adjutant General Andre. The value of the services of these captors, Paulding, Williams and Yan Wart, is too well known to require our humble praise. The worth of their refusal to let him go, was well set forth by the eloquence of the Executive of the State, especially, on the late occasion of dedicating this beautiful shaft. We were particularly pleased with his observations on the importance of thus extending the “ Monumental History” of our Union,198
APPENDIX.
The late explorations in Nineveh and elsewhere, show that inscriptions on stone give to man immortality here below.
In all coming time, should other traitors arise like the one that led to this event, and succeed in the betrayal of their country7s welfare. And should any of the worthy of the land fear like one of old, that all had “bowed the knee to Baal/7 they may turn aside and learn from monuments like this, that there still must be thousands left like those whose glory is reflected from the polished marble column, who are true to the land that gave them birth. Ah! yes, “ Monumental History 77 as well as a recital of the “ Events of the Revolution 77 will enkindle anew the fire of patriotism in the breasts of those who must act even when future generations “ sleep in the dust of the earth.77 Long, long, may the choir of Revolutionary patriots look down as from on high,
“ And fill this region with tones of light and love.” After contemplating the most splendid political fabric the world ever saw, it is natural to inquire, have we reason to suppose that the vari-APPENDIX.
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ous “ down trodden ” nations of the earth will soon become enfranchised, by imitating those who have accomplished so much in America ?
We answer, this glorious result will follow as soon as these respective nations are prepared by moral culture and intellectual endowments, to enjoy the fruits of liberty. The seeds of our Eevolution were scattered broad-cast in intelligent and virtuous hearts. There they sprang up simultaneously and brought forth those fruits we now enjoy. Would we reap a rich harvest in the natural world, we must prepare the soil accordingly. Without such preparation, the brightest suns and the most fertilizing showers will not avail. And so it is in the political world, which the experience of every age shows, the legitimate fruits of Freedom cannot grow, where the hearts of the people are not duly prepared for their development and maturity.
Ignorant and unprincipled revolutionists may in exultation of victory, till the air with their shouts, and shake the earth with the thunder of their artillery, yet their triumphs will200
APPENDIX.
end by the rapid success of some more vigorous disorganizes.
The great political aphorisms, though familiar even to children, should not be disregarded by any ; for while they are like the common truths of the Sacred Yolume obvious to all, they are alike necessary for the observation and guide of all. In the former we see as in lines of light the declaration—“ Intelligence is the life of liberty.”
Let not those oppressed nations, on gazing on the effulgence of our Republic, look for immediate manhood like Minerva, who sprung as Mythologists say, from Jupiter’s brains in full and beauteous form at once ; but they must expect to reach such an eminence but by the ordinary operations of moral causes in the political regeneration of nations.
And may we remember that we cannot maintain our lofty elevation, but by the observance of those principles that first gave us our preeminence among the nations of the earth.
Note.—While in our past survey, we have been wandering amid scenes as lovely as thoseAPPENDIX.
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the vernal season discloses, we cannot conclude our pleasing toil without presenting in the following extract, a specimen of that refined taste of one so conspicuous among the master-builders of our National Fabric.
The subject presents a conspicuous evidence of the fruits of that peace for which our father's spilt their best blood. Such noble structures as the Capitol, and the embellishments of the visible creation around, rise not amid storms of war.
“ Almost everything that is beautiful in the scenery of Washington, is due to the taste and industry of Mr. Jefferson, He planted its walks with trees, and strewed its gardens with flowers. He was rarely seen returning from his daily excursions on horseback, without bringing some branch of tree, or shrub, or bunch of flowers, for the embellishment of the infant Capitol. He was familiar with every tree and plant, from the oak of the forest, to the meanest flower of the valley. The willow-oak was among his favorite trees ; and he was often seen standing on his horse gathering the acorns from this tree. He had it in view to raise a nursery of them, which,202
APPENDIX.
when large enough to give shade, should be made to adorn the walks of all the avenues in the city. In the mean time, he planted them with the Lombardy poplar, being of the most sudden growth, contented that, though he could not enjoy their shade, his successors would. Those who have stood on the western portico of the Capitol, and looked down the long avenue of a mile in length, to the President’s house, have been struck with the beautiful colonnade of trees which adorns the whole distance, on either side. These were all planted under the direction of Mr. Jefferson, who often joined in the task with his own hands. He always lamented the spirit of extermination which had swept off the noble forest trees that overspread the Capitol Hill, extending down to the banks of the Tiber, and the shores of the Potomac. He meant to have converted the grounds into extensive parks and gardens. “ The loss is irreparable,” said he to an European traveller, “ and I have wished to be a despot for a moment, that I might preserve those valuable groves.”as it IBas,
IN THE DAYS OF3 tt t r o it u r t i n tt.
How true the remarks we once heard from a good Bishop, that no one could succeed in laudable attempts without a due degree of enthusiasm. Mark the zeal of that young man whose soul is fired with lofty aspirations for the achievement of an important object. No difficulties dampen his ardor. Poor and friendless, he goes forward leading his little son by the hand, as he solicits the aid of sovereigns in the prosecution of his noble plan. Little did he heed the scoffs of the ignorant, at his proposed enterprise. He moves on through all difficulties like the sun passing through fleecy clouds. At length his petition is heard favorably by one of206
INTRODUCTION,
that class who is ever first to aid in laudable endeavors. She offers even to sacrifice her most brilliant ornaments, to assist in an effort to unfold the greater treasures of the anticipated New World. Ah! yes, Isabella of Spain has the honor of being the first patron of Columbus, although her jewels were not called for, to raise the suitable fund for the great undertaking. See the situation of this bold navigator as he plows the briny wave in a small vessel without any deck. His life is threatened by his impatient crew, yet he holds on his course with courage as strong as his hopes were ardent. The light of an island of a new continent, at length burst upon his glad view.
That region whose discovery Columbus supposed was foretold in the 19th Psalm, rose to his enraptured vision. In subsequent voyages he found, as he supposed on the coast of Para, the very spot where once the beauties of Eden were unfolded.INTRODUCTION.	207
But what would avail the disclosing of the most beautiful regions on whose solitudes the sun may have shone for ages, unless some energetic and enlightened spirit would follow in the train of discovery.
To the savages, even the precious metals of the Western Continent, were but baubles. They were useless but to those who knew their true value. On opening the treasures of the West to the view of the discerning, they were soon eagerly sought. At length a modest and beautiful young man, of pleasing address, feels anxious to leave the endearments of his native land and all the advantages high birth and wealth could bestow, to find a home in the New World. He is anxious to find a State where he might implant the principles of the new sect whose odious name he had, contrary to his father’s wishes, adopted. Thus, Providence opened a way for the settlement of one of the most prominent States of our Republic. The name208
INTRODUCTION.
of Penn, of whose times we would briefly write, will be venerated as long as virtue finds a place in the annals of any nation.
Those in every age who attempt great projects will either sooner or later succeed. Their course is like that of the pilgrim, who passes over the dreary desert beneath scorching suns, and over burning sands, and who, while ready to lie down and die of exhaustion, at length sees in the distance a broad oasis. Soon, though faint and weary, he joyfully reaches the verdant place where all his wants are supplied. To the resolute, the light is ever just rising in the dark horizon.jpsasMssiPsiaAg
OR THE
€imtB nf Willhm |Jnw.
CHAPTER I.
The origin of nations, like that of large rivers, is lost in clouds of obscurity. The oldest credible history of any nation that has descended to us, is the history of Abraham. The Chinese, the Egyptians and the Hindoos deduce their history from an early period. But how puerile the accounts they give of the origin of the foundations of their respective empires. The Chinese say that the first king was Fo-he—that he lived long before the flood, and that he descended from the rainbow. But Confucius, the great Chinese Legislator, confesses that there is210
PHILADELPHIA ; OR THE
no authentic history of China before the time of Noah—that the descent of the first king from a rainbow, probably arose from its connection with the Deluge, and that they learnt something about the flood from Noah, who it is supposed went to China, about one hundred and fifty years after that event.
The Egyptians say that their first kings were giants. Nations like Trojan JEneas, the founder of the Roman Empire, like to trace the origin of their empires to gods. Menes was the first mortal king of the Egyptians. And from him there was a succession of kings, extending to 11,366 years. Yet that people in the day of Herodotus, the earliest of Greek historians, whose works are extant, and who lived four hundred and eighty-four years before Christ, could not tell wdio built the Pyramids, or give a creditable account of Sesostris, their great king.
But the Hindoos have by far the greatest pretence to antiquity. Their sacred book which contains the institutes of civil and religious duties, was received, as they pretend, from theTIMES OF WILLIAM PENN.
211
Supreme Being, by a subordinate divinity, 1,960,000,000 years since, and that from another divine being of the same rank, two races of kings descended, called children of the sun and moon, who reigned in different parts of India about three million years!
Herodotus, the great father of history, declares gravely, that the Huns descended from witches, who were married to evil spirits.212
PHILADELPHIA ; OB THE
CHAPTER II.
Yet while all is darkness as to the origin of the above nations, unclouded light shines on our path while searching after that of modern nations, but more especially that of our own country and its splendid cities.
It will be our pleasure to make some remarks about the second city of the Union, as it appeared in the days of its infancy.
From the earliest times, the eyes of mankind have been turned West, under the supposition that beyond the vast waste of waters there lay extensive lands, the fit abode of intelligence. Hither came some eight hundred years since the Scandinavians, but no practical results followed any discovery before the time of the great Genoese. Nations were slow however in following the luminous tract he marked out.TIMES OF WILLIAM PENN.
213
There are many who still suppose this extensive Continent was but a howling wilderness prior to the time of Columbus. But facts as seen in the ruins of ancient cities, show the incorrectness of these opinions. The All-Wise and beneficent Creator works not in vain. He did not call up this earth of beauty and of glory to remain a solitude. It is evident that in its new form, on the supposition of geologists, that it was made of the fragments of a broken planet or worlds, it was made for the happy abode of rational beings. We introduce one circumstance in proof of this declaration, as maintained by Professor Agassiz. He says “ the family of the rose, which includes among its varieties, not only many of the most beautiful flowers which are known, but also the richest fruits, as the apple, pear, peach, plum, apricot, cherry, strawberry, raspberry, blackberry, <fcc., but that no fossil plants of this family had ever been discovered by geologists. This he regarded as conclusive evidence, that the introduction of this family of plants upon the earth, was coeval with and subsequent to the creation of man, to whose comfort214
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and happiness they seem especially designed by a wise Providence to contribute/7
That humble flower, opening its petals in some cleft of the rock, has more than the splendors of royalty. Such also speaks the goodness of its Creator.
We presume after the confusion of tongues at Babel, people came by a continuous range of land extending in particular from Africa to Bra zil, and ultimately built up splendid cities of the West—those that have of late been discovered by antiquarians. Is it not said that the arrogant builders of that lofty structure on the plains of Shinar were scattered hence over the face of the “ whole earth77 ? This extensive region, blessed with every variety of clime—the abundance of all that nature yields, and with scenery in all its attractions of beauty and sublimity, was not left a wilderness for the resort of wild beasts and hissing serpents. It was the home of intelligence. But as the first inhabitants did not reverence the true God, but sacrificed in particular to Mars, the god of war, like the Canaanites, they were cut off from the land.TIMES OF WILLIAM PENN.
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The monuments of their greatness are seen in the ruins of their cities. And there we still see the altars erected to their insatiate divinities.
Extinct races of idolaters, have left the lands once illumined by the fires burning fiercely to consume the human sacrifices offered to their false gods, for the future home of Christian nations.
Nations before Columbus, who worshipped false gods, were to give place to those who in after times should rear a Republic more glorious than any the world ever saw. One built on the immovable foundation of those principles that emanate from the Word of Truth. Yes! and this great light in the West, seems to be like that of the sun, which at his rising, quenches the lustre of all the lesser orbs in the heavens.*
* See the President’s late Message. He thinks ere long our country will acquire a population of 100,000,000 !216
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CHAPTER III.
In the reign of Augustus Adolphus, 1626, a celebrated merchant, Wilhelm Useling, was instrumental in forming a West India Company, for the purpose of forming a settlement in America. The following were the objects in view for taking this important course.
1st. To plant the Christian religion.
2d. To enlarge his majesty’s dominions, enrich the treasury, and lessen taxes.
And what noble motives actuate the Swedes in this great undertaking. Well worthy a Christian people. Mercenary motives operate on the minds of too many who resolve to colonize new countries. They seem to think that the prosperity of nations rests as on a foundation of gold. So thought Croesus, till the storms of affliction came—and then indeed, he thought ofTIMES OF WILLIAM PENN.
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what Solon had previously told him, that in accordance with divine teachings, that a man’s life or happiness consisted not in the abundance of the things he possessed. The possessions of one world could not satisfy the ambitious desires of the great Macedonian.
The northern navigators first landed at Cape Henlopen, and called it Paradise Point. Compared with the remote north, the country on the Delaware Bay seemed to present the floral charms of Eden. They purchased lands from the chief, from Cape Henlopen to South River, as the Delaware was called.
The first Governor was Printz. He was a man of austere manners, and of course not calculated to win the affections of the people. In 1612, he returned to Sweden, and left the government to his son-in-law, John Papegoia. In 1611, the charge fell to John Risingh. On an island called Tinicum, was “ Printz Hall,” the residence of the Governor.
A day of importance approaches. It is hailed with joy by all classes, especially by those whose homes were in the surrounding forests.218
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At “Printz Hall” on 17th June, 1654, the old league between the Swedes and the Indians is to be renewed.
Although the evil passions of men in every region induce them to “ bite and devour one another,” yet when the notes of peace, like angel's golden harps are heard, “ saint and savage ” delight to listen.
How common among the nations to express their ideas by illustrations from natural objects. To show the desire of the Indians for the continuance of peace between themselves and the Swedes, the chief Noaman exclaims, “ May the chain of harmony that binds us together, remain as unbroken as that circle the shape of the calabash represents.”
But alas ! the after history of the red man is as evanescent as that calabash of the down cast prophet. The races that were once so powerful are fast melting away, under the uncongenial sun of civilization. Then, after firing guns, the Swedes gave the Indians wine, &e.
The first fort was built at Christina, in 1631. At Tinicum, where the Governor resided, wereTIMES OP WILLIAM PENN.
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an orchard and pleasant houses. The Swedes were a pious people. They brought their ministers to instruct the people in that faith which opens to our view those vistas of glory here, that are faint emblems of that higher scene prepared for the pure in heart.
At Tinicum, were a fort called New Gotten-burg, and a church, which was dedicated in 1646.*
About four leagues from Cape Henlopen, was a fort. But as the musketoes were so thick they could not remain there. The joys of Paradise were not found there at least. They probably found from experience that the advantages and disadvantages, peculiar to different climes, counterbalance each other.
“ If at the South the sky has a softer blue,
At the North, the stars come nearer the earth.”
* Such is the regard the Scandinavians have for the services of the church, that in Iceland, at last accounts, they had 400 churches. And some of the ministers after laboring in the field, returned to refresh the mind by perusing Latin authors. Hecla’s light is less brilliant than that of knowledge in that distant Island.220
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Happiness is not confined to the pleasant climate of Italy. Though there
“ Blossoms and fruits, and flowers together rise,
And the whole year in one confusion lies.”
Yet at the distant North,
“ The orchards’ crowded bloom Comes rich from winters waste,
Like rosy winged angels that burst the tomb,
When the dead of earth are raised.”
The dominion of New Sweden was of short duration. On the 9th of September, the Dutch Governor, with an overwhelming force, appeared in the Delaware. He anchored before Fort Casimir. He demanded the surrender of the place. The commandant, Schute was not allowed to consult with Governor Risingh. He had to surrender on articles of capitulation. In the fort were four cannon, fourteen pounders, five swivels, and a parcel of small arms. On the 25th of the same month, this earliest monument of Swedish enterprise submitted to the invincible Stuyvesant.
The forts are taken—the flags are torn down. The officers and principal people are taken toTIMES OF WILLIAM PENN.
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New Amsterdam, and the common people submit to the rule of the Dutch.
If the government of the Swedes was of short duration, the good principles they implanted there still remain with their descendants. The congregation of Swedes, in Southwark, Philadelphia, present a monument that reflects bright honors on those who originally founded that church. The light of virtue ever shines even amid the storms of revolutions. It is a celestial ray that endless night cannot quench. Force may obscure for a time its lustre, but not obliterate its home in the hearts of its votaries.222
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CHAPTER IY.
It is well known that the Duke of York, afterwards James II. of England, claimed all the territory now forming the State of Pennsylvania and the Delaware.
William Penn, son and heir of William Penn, who had an interest in West Jersey, formed a design of founding a Commonwealth on principles of perfect equality, and of universal toleration of religious truth.
At Oxford, twenty years before he got his Charter, he had an idea of Transatlantic settlements.
He had a plan of civil government to submit to experiment. The Duke of York promised Sir William Penn, on his death bed, he would befriend his son for the fathers services against the Dutch, 3rd June, 1664. Penn obtained aTIMES OF WILLIAM PENN.
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Charter for Pennsylvania, on the 4th of March, 1681. The boundaries were from 40° to 43° North—50° West longitude.
Penn, as Proprietary, was empowered to enact laws with the assent of freemen of the Province —to appoint judges and other officers—to pardon crimes, murder and treason excepted—to grant reprieves till the pleasure of the king was known. Not to make war with any nation with which England was at peace—and not to hold correspondence with any power at war with England. He was to be Captain General over all the forces.
If as many as twenty persons wanted a clergyman from the Bishop of London, their desires should be granted.
Singular, yet pleasing instructions from a Catholic sovereign to a Quaker governor. 0 may the day roll on, when all extreme lights in the Christian Church, shall commingle in one to illumine the world of mind. Blessed of Heaven are those who toil for such a glorious result.
u Slight is the task, but immense the reward Of those who thus labor to imitate God.”224
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Parliament had the power of laying taxes, &e. The right of soil was Feudal and not allodial.
The agreement between Penn and the settlers was, that they should plant one acre of woodland for every live acres cleared, and that they shuold preserve the oak trees for ships, and the mulberry’s for silk.
The first vessel that came over with passengers, landed at Chester or Upland. Among the first settlers were English, Irish, German and Welch.
Penn was a Briton. The descendants of the Germans, and who are conspicuous as farmers, we fear have generally been more disposed to cultivate the land than the mind. They do not consider that the acquisition of both should be pursued together. That knowledge is the real guardian of property. Those who toil for money only, are mere turnkeys to their palaces.
In three years, above fifty vessels arrived. Nothing was more conducive to the happiness of the first settlers than Penn’s conduct towards the Indians. He sent in the first vessel, WilliamTIMES OF WILLIAM PENN.
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Markham to conciliate the Indians. Penn taught the natives, that made by the same Deity, they should live together as brethren. Even Voltaire says in allusion to Penn’s treaty with the Indians, “ This was the only treaty between these people and the Christians, that was not ratified by an oath and which was never broken.”
The first Constitution of the country was made in 1682. It ordained that the General Assembly should be composed of all the inhabitants— afterwards of two hundred or more men—that the Executive power should rest in the Governor and Council of seventy-two members.
Any government is free to the people under it, (whatever be the form,) where the laws rule and the people are a party to those laws.
Delaware extended one hundred and fifty miles along the Bay to the ocean. The grants of Delaware were fee simple, but no political right whatever.
In 1682, Penn arrives from England to superintend his affairs in America.
That bond of peace which lasted for seventy226
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years was cemented under the Elm tree that was blown down in 1810. Such was General Sim-Coe?s veneration for this “ Treaty Tree ” during the Revolution, that he would not let his men cut it down.
The Penn Society have erected a monument where the “ Treaty Elm ” stood, on the Delaware, in Kensington. On the West of the marble monument are the words,
“ Placed by the Penn Society, 1827, to mark the site of the Great Elm Tree.”
On the East,
“ Pennsylvania Pounded 1681, by Deeds of Peace.”
In time, the Dutch, Swedes and Fins were naturalized. The acknowledgment of the Christian faith was a necessary qualification for office. Affirmation was substituted for oaths. Equal guilt was attached to the violation of the former, as to that of the latter. Adultery was punished by whipping—second offence death. Stage plays, ten days imprisonment. Drunkenness, by fine and imprisonment. The laws to be published in schools, Ac. Penn was considered tooTIMES OP WILLIAM PENN.
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puritanical. We cannot read the code of New England, of 1641, but with horror. Its lines are written in blood, and vengeance stalks over every page. Restoration of the misguided to the path of duty was not its object. Reformation is the just object of punishment. To the latter, Penn directed his special attention. The law that converted prisons into workhouses, is the germ of the present wholesome system of Penn’s jurisprudence.
We wonder not that the Swedes as well as the natives loved Penn. Good “ Onas ” as they called him, was the Washington of that period, as to his moral qualities.
How powerful the influence of example. It is said of “ Witiza «the Wicked,” that he made all Spain to sin, by his bad example. The light of the example of the Penn’s of our land, are safeguards to youth.
“ Mind ! mind !
Bear witness earth and heaven,
Contains within itself
The beautiful and the sublime.”228
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CHAPTER Y.
Those who liye now in princely mansions in Philadelphia, seldom think how the first adventurers fared. They lived in rude huts, and hollow trees and caves in the banks of the Delaware!
John Key was the first child born of English parents in Philadelphia. In compliment, Penn gave him a lot of land. He was born in a cave near Sassafras street. He was called First Born. When eighty years old he walked thirty miles a day on foot. He died 1767.
Penn and the Surveyor General, Thomas Holme, laid out the city. They $ug Up two or three earths, to see the bottom.
Three Swedes, named Swenson, owned the land, which they exchanged for some at a distance. A front on Delaware and Schuylkill rivers, gave it important commercial privileges.TIMES OF WILLIAM PENN.
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Level ground—clay for brick, inexhaustable stone quarries in the vicinity, and the salubrity of the atmosphere, made the site very desirable.
It seems the city, like Babylon, was laid out on a rural plan. Its plan was like the following, first commended to the Commissioners.
We complain of the ravages of the cholera and other dire diseases ; but do we not invite their approach by living in such dense masses ? Pestilence comes on the wings of a corrupt atmosphere.
Had Penn’s plan been followed, we probably should never have heard of the “ yellow fever,” in Philadelphia.
44 Let every house be placed in the middle of its platt as to the breadth way of it, that so there may be ground on each side of it for gardens, orchards or fields—that it may be a 4 Greene Country/ and always wholesome, and not subject to fire.”
The first year eighty houses were built. Penn forbid any house being built east of Front street. Yet the claims of commerce have encroached on the prohibited shores of the Delaware. How230
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much would the health and pleasure of the inhabitants have been promoted, if, where buildings of every description now stand, there had been beautiful groves—such as the founder of the city designed.
The large squares of Philadelphia are the only parts that shadow forth the “ Greene Country ” of the Proprietary. Penn says of that place, “the heavens smile like the South of France—that the woods were adorned with lovely flowers—that the air was sweet and Clear.”
The pure mind of Penn was ever open to the heavenly influences that a survey of the visible creation creates.
The education of youth was not neglected. In 1689, Friends’ Public School was established. George Keith was the Teacher. He who afterwards left the Quakers and became an Episcopal clergyman. He was a great annoyance to those he left.
The poor were taught gratis. Tuition in English, four shillings per quarter; writing, six shillings per quarter ; reading, writing, and castingTIMES OP WILLIAM PEOT.
281
accounts, ten shillings per quarter. Ten pounds per quarter for boarding.*
At length Penn returns to England. Thomas Lloyd acts as President in his absence. Penn, like Washington, had his enemies. Because the Catholic king was friendly to him, he was called a papist.
When the Protestants, William and Mary, ascended the throne of England, they appointed Governor Fletcher, of New York, Governor of Pennsylvania, and the Three Territories, as Delaware was called. Penn was deeply involved in debt. His country was at length sold for £1200!
William and Mary sensible afterwards of the merits of Penn, and of his right to the Province, restored it to him. He at length returns to America and resumes the government. He is forced at length to depute his authority to one honest and capable Deputy, Hamilton.
He again visits Europe. He was permitted no more to return. This good man died at
* That small stream of knowledge opened in the times of the Proprietary, has widened at this day into a mighty river. This is manifest from the splendid Institutions, both public and private, we have had the honor of visiting.232
PHILADELPHIA ; OR THE
Rushcomb, in England, 1718. His ability, courage, zeal and perseverance, have made him conspicuous among religious reformers. As an apostle of civil liberty, the world has an interest in him which can never fade. Religious toleration and civil liberty were not duly appreciated by the colonies of New England. They withdrew themselves from power and oppression, only to abuse the former in the use of the latter against those who dissented from their creed.
Penn, as well as Williams, taught that the Fountain of Truth was as free to all, as those that rise on the arid desert.
Penn’s laws were dictated by wisdom and humanity. In them was a scale graduating the punishment to the offence. The prime object of punishment he considered, was the reformation of the offender. All else is tyranny.
In his demeanor he was grave and not austere. His correspondence with men of the world showed him to have been perfectly acquainted with polite manners. His writings were highly esteemed by his church. As a minister, he was successful. He was highly beloved by his friends.TIMES OF WILLIAM PENN.
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The government of his province and territories he devised to the Earls of Oxford, and Mortimer, and Pawlet, in trust to sell to Queen Anne or any other person.
Ah! could Penn arise from the slumber of the grave, and look on the scene of his early labors, how great would be his astonishment in seeing the mighty change in the appearance of things. The little village has grown to an immense city, containing nearly half a million of souls!
Where once the trade was with the primitive inhabitants for what the forests and streams yielded, in exchange for beads or similar trifles, is now doing an extensive business in the great staples of iron and coal.
Where formerly the coin of the place was principally seawant or wampum, now rises in grandeur the Mint, in which the currency of the Union is coined. And where is deposited, not the muscle and other shells of which the early wampum was made, but gold coins used in the days of the Caesars, as well as such as have been common in every age.
The city of “Brotherly Love” indeed, con-234
PHILADELPHIA ; OR THE
tains all that is calculated to elevate it in the view of those, who possess discernment to perceive its various advantages, and taste, to appreciate whatever is valuable in science and art.
Ancient Rome was prominent in the arts and sciences. Carthage was conspicuous for commerce. As the situation of Philadelphia will not allow her to be very distinguished in what was the chief glory of the African city, she may rise to the highest eminence in what the “ Eternal City ” excelled. Her advantages of education now, as before observed, are an honor to the citizens, and the glory of the age.
We close in allusion to one of the conspicuous Institutions. What mighty effects are produced from causes, sometimes supposed at first to be of an evil tendency.
An obscure young man makes Philadelphia his residence. Industry was his principal virtue. By unwonted perseverance and economy, he acquires a princely fortune. At the close of life he thought much of those who were like himself once, poor—he commiserated orphans left without means for their education. He leaves anTIMES OF WILLIAM PENff.
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immense sum to be appropriated to the erection of a splendid edifice for the education of this destitute class. But one. condition for the privilege of enjoying its benefits, startled the Christian world. It was feared if this condition was complied with, it would be the means of diffusing the principles of infidelity through the land. The privileges of the charter were to cease, provided any minister of the gospel ever entered the walls of the College.
Girard has gone to his account, but he has not by this remarkable proviso prevented the entrance of the light of heaven into the Halls of Science. For there, competent laymen are allowed to preside and read daily to the rising generation, the prayers of the church.
And there, elegant apartments, and all the advantages learned Professors can impart, are extended to youth—to those who were sought out amid the abodes of poverty and degradation.
Thus, from the seeming ills of life, the Be-nificent and the All-Wise educes good.ADENDA.
The labor of preparing our Trio of Papers on American History is over. It bas been one of the most pleasant of our life. In traveling to distant lands, and seeing among other curiosities of art the majestic castle, with stately columns of classic style and overgrown with ivy—beautiful specimens of the arabesque on the interior of the walls, and its bright mosaic pavements, it is pleasing to know the history of the celebrated architect who reared it But it is far more delightful to peruse the history of those who laid the foundations of the most splendid Republic the wrorld ever saw. Truly did Dionysius of Halicarnassus say, “ History is Philosophy teaching by examples.” In our brief survey, we have presented an array of great and good men for the imitation of the youth of our country.
We have often referred to the happy influence our institutions of religion and science have on the minds of all. And the light they impart is not as vascillating and transient as the Aurora of the north, but as constant as the rays of the sun.
Our Union of Confederated States is an experiment. Under the influence of lights we have constantly exhibited, and those emanating from such exalted sources, this experiment cannot fail to transmit to the remotest generations, its noble objects. “ Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.”
A. Davis.NOTES
ON
Mtm 1 m 01 u irarn.
STEAMBOAT.
Note.—Before the romantic scenery of the Kolch or Fresh Water Lake was destroyed, and while covered with glass ice, it was amusing to see during the Revolution, American and British officers skating there. It is said the former in these antic gyrations, excelled the latter. Alas! how sad the change.
STU YVES ANT’S SEAL.
Note.—The Seal of New Amsterdam had crosses saltier with a Beaver (the staple of the new country), for a crest. This is the same, we think, as the one we saw in the possession of Gerard Stuyvesant, Esq.238
NOTES ON NEW AMSTERDAM.
STUYVESANT’S HOUSE.
Note.—And what a contrast between the house of the last Dutch Governor, and those that now rise in princely magnificence on that same farm where his humble dwelling rose. And could the ambitious, the intelligent statesman and warrior, have been happy in such a plain edifice ? Yes, if his affections were in unison with the attributes of Him, who dwells every where with the “ pure in heart.”
This house stood among the hills. Around which have been found the graves of those red men who once were the sole lords of the island. All have vanished like the beautiful trees that cast their shadows over the wigwam, and the more noble mansion.
STADT BUYS.
Note.—This was one of the most noted houses in the little place. It was originally called the “ City Tavern.” At length the more dignified name of “StadtHuys” or City Hall. It stood at the head of Coenties Slip, and had a prison as well as Halls of Legislation. And there were the Pillow—the Whipping Post, and the Fetters for the guilty offender. These instruments'of what perhaps now would be considered those of torture, were used at the new City Hall, which stood on the site of the Custom House.NOTES ON NEW AMSTERDAM.
239
How little do the multitudes who are daily employed there now, in counting up the United States revenue, think of the scenes that transpired there in early times. From the rough field others planted, they gather a rich harvest.
SUGAR HOUSE PRISON.
Note.—The old Dutch Church, in Nassau street, during the Revolution, was used by the British, in the first place for an Hospital. It contained three thousand prisoners. The “ Dead Cart ” came daily and took away six or eight of the dead. The old Sugar House adjoined the church. In this, prisoners were confined from Long Island. How unhappy their condition while torn from the endearments of home, and in a starving state. Truly men of tiger’s hearts sacrifice at the shrine of Mars !
In that antiquated building where now messages are sent with lightning speed on the wings of peace, once poor prisoners were punished by bearing their weight on their toe, on a sharp goad.
KIPS MANSION.
Note.—Before the Revolution, the Governors had their mansions and gardens within the wails of the Fort. This was in the style of the Feudal lords. The first men also had their dwellings without the wails. Among such was that of240
NOTES ON NEW AMSTERDAM.
the Kip Mansion. The Kip family came from Holland at an early day, and settled on land we think, in the neighborhood of Exchange Place. Among the members of this highly respectable family was Jacob Kip. In 1652, the inhabitants of New Amsterdam, were first invested with civic powers. On the fea-d of Candlemas, Stuyvesant issued a proclamation for the appointment of Burgomasters, Shepens, &c. Cornelius Van Tienhoven, the company’s fiscal, was made Schout or Sheriff, and Jacob Kip was appointed Secretary to the Municipal Government, with a salary afterwards of 200 gilders, or about $76 per annum !
Hitherto the village of seven or eight hundred souls, belonged in fee to the West India Company.