v^Mj 
 

LIFE OF 
 
 WHITTIER'S HEROINE, 
 
 BARBARA FRITCHIE; 
 
 INCLUDING A 
 
 BRIEF BUT COMPREHENSIVE SKETCH 
 
 O.F- 
 
 (f '^' Historic "Old Frederick," 
 
 1/ 
 
 BY HENRY M: NIXDORFF. 
 
 It 
 
 FREDERICK, MD. 
 
 w. T. Delaplaine & Co , Publishers and Printers. 
 
 1887. 
 
£144)7 
 
 J(JII\ O WHITTIER 
 
BARBARA FRITCHIE. 
 
COPYRIGHT, 1887. 
 
 By W. T. Delaplaine & Co, 
 
]3aRBARA '^RITCHIE. 
 
 BY JOHN G. WHITTIER. 
 
 Up from the meadows rich with corn, 
 Clear in the cool September morn, 
 
 The clustered spires of Frederick stand 
 Green-walled by the hills of Maryland. 
 
 Round about them orchards sweep, 
 Apple and peach-tree fruited deep, 
 
 Fair as a garden of the Lord 
 
 To the eyes of the famished rebel horde, 
 
 On that pleasant morn of the early Fall 
 When Lee marche i over the mountain-wall, 
 
 Over the mountains winding down, 
 Horse and foot, into Frederick town. 
 
 Forty flags with their silver stars, 
 Forty flags with their crimson bars, 
 
 Flapped in the morning wind: the sun 
 Of noon looked down, and saw not one. 
 
 Up rose old Barbara Fritchie then. 
 Bowed with her fourscore years and ten; 
 
Whittier's Heroine, 
 
 Bravest of all in Frederick town, 
 
 She took up the flag the men hauled down: 
 
 In her attic-window the stafi" she set, 
 To show that one heart was loyal yet. 
 
 Up the street came the rebel tread, 
 Stonewall Jackson riding ahead. 
 
 Under his slouched hat left and right 
 He glanced; the old flag met his sight. 
 
 "Halt !" — the dust-brown ranks stood fast, 
 "Fire !" — out blazed the rifle-blast. 
 
 It shivered the window, pane and sash; 
 It rent the banner with seam and gash. 
 
 Quick, as it fell, from the broken stafl" 
 Dame Barbara snatched the silken scarf; 
 
 She leaned far out on the window-sill, 
 And shook it forth with a royal will. 
 
 "Shoot, if you must, this old gray head. 
 But spare your country's flag," she said. 
 
 A shade of sadness, a blush of shame, 
 Over the face of the leader came; 
 
 The nobler nature within him stirred 
 To life at that woman's deed and word; 
 
 "Who touches a hair of yon gray head 
 Dies like a dog ! March on !" he said. 
 
 All day long through Frederick street 
 Sounded the tread of marching feet; 
 
 All day long that free flag tost 
 Over the heads of the rebel host. 
 
 Ever its torn folds rose and fell 
 
 On the loyal winds that loved it well; 
 
Barbara Fritchie. 
 
 And through the hill-gaps sunset light ' 
 Shone over it a warm good-night. 
 
 Barbara Fritchie's work is o'er, 
 
 And the Rebel rides on his raids no more. 
 
 Honor to her ! and let a tear 
 
 Fall, for her sake, on Stonewall's bier. 
 
 Over Barbara Fritchie's grave 
 Flag of Freedom and Union, wave ! 
 
 Peace and order and beauty draw 
 Round thy symbol of light and law; 
 
 And ever the stars above look down 
 On thv stars below in Frederick town ! 
 
IinBB^eB. 
 
 "^^/i S much that is utterly false has been 
 ^.^^yV^published concerning my friend and 
 neighbor, Mrs. Barbara' Fritchie, since 
 the appearance of the wonderful poem entitled 
 ''Barbara Fritchie", by that great and justly 
 distinguished poet John G. Whittier, I deem 
 it a dut}^ as one who loved her, for the many 
 excellent traits of character that she possessed, 
 as well as having been for many years her 
 friend and well acquainted with her for a long 
 time, to tell the public what I know of this 
 worthy lad}^ The object /I have in view, is 
 not to produce anything sensational, or to 
 distort, but to be careful, on the contrary, to 
 make no statement that does not rest on a 
 sure foundation, and I wish it understood that 
 I shall give the exact truth in what I state in 
 the following pages. 
 
 The German spelling of Fritchie would 
 be "Freitchie," but we give the English as it 
 was spelled on his small sign at the window 
 where he was conducting business, "Fritchie." 
 
LIFE OF 
 
 Wpl^^IEI^'8 pEl^fl^E 
 
 BARBARA FRITCHIE.'^ 
 
 Y RS. SOUTHWORTH.the distinguished 
 J \^_^authoress, who was in Washington at 
 the time, was the person who wrote 
 to the poet concerning this estimable lady and 
 enclosed a new\spaper slip relating to Barbara 
 Fritchie's action, when Gen. Lee's Arni}^ en- 
 tered Frederick, and this led to the preparation 
 by the poet of that w^onderful poem. 
 
 Miss Barbara Hauer, was born in the 
 flourishing city of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, 
 December 3rd, 1766, and was baptized b}- the 
 Rev. William Hendel, pastor of the Reformed 
 Church, December 14th, 1766. Her parents 
 names are recorded in the records of the First 
 
12 Whittier's Heroine 
 
 Reformed Church of Lancaster City, as Nico- 
 las and Catherine Hauer. The names of their 
 five children were Daniel, George, Barbara, 
 Margaret and Catherine. After marriage they 
 were Mrs. John C. Fritchie, Mrs. Stover and 
 Mrs. Peter Mantz. Her husband had received 
 the military title of major and was well 
 known as Major Peter Mantz. 
 
 Attention is called at this point for a few 
 moments to Mr. John C. Fritchie the much 
 esteemed husband of our heroine. He was a 
 highly respected citizen of Frederick. His 
 humble and unobtrusive manner won for him 
 the regard of his fellow-citizens, and such is 
 ever the case. True merit is retiring and 
 unassuming. 
 
 He conducted a glove manufactory in the 
 East front room of his dwelling, and also pre- 
 pared the material in his shop fronting on 
 Carroll Creek. 
 
 His assistant in the glove department 
 was Mr. Henr^^ Hanshew, who had married 
 Mrs. Fritchie's niece, an honorable man, 
 against whom nothing of evil could be j ustly 
 spoken. 
 
 I have frequently seen these two most ex- 
 cellent men early in the morning wending 
 their way to the city spring, to take a refresh- 
 ing draught of pure cold water, and afterward 
 
Barbara Fritchie. 13 
 
 with clean towels in hand, go to an outlet of 
 the spring, and bathe hands and face, so as to 
 feel its delightful effects before entering upon 
 the regular duties of the day. 
 
 Mr. Fritchie was successful in business. 
 While he did not acquire great wealth, he 
 accumulated sufiicient to live comfortably dur- 
 ing life, and at his death, leave to his beloved 
 wife the dwelling in which they had so long 
 resided and means otherwise invested. His 
 death occured Nov. loth, 1849. G-one but not 
 forgotten, for beautiful myrtle yet covers his 
 grave. 
 
 Miss Barbara Hauer w^as born in exciting 
 times, when the Colonies of America were 
 still subject to England and stirring events 
 were constantly transpiring. 
 
 Just previous to her birth the odious 
 "stamp act", ordering that all papers on which 
 instruments of writing were prepared should 
 be taxed, at exorbitant rates, had been repealed 
 and shortl}^ after. May 1767, a second plan for 
 taxing the colonists was adopted, while yet 
 they were without representation in Parlia- 
 ment. This led to the preparation of that 
 matchless paper "The Declaration of Indepen- 
 dence", where each pledged his life, his honor 
 and his fortune, in furtherance of this glorious 
 cause. 
 
14 Whittier's Heroine, 
 
 The Declaration of Independence and as- 
 serting onr freedom from British rule, was 
 adopted some ten years after the birth of Miss 
 Barbara Hauer. She was therefore one of those 
 people of hardy orgin, w^ho dared to do or die. 
 She no doubt soon learned of the action taken by 
 the citizens of Frederick-towai, Maryland, in 
 opposition to British oppression. 
 
 As early as 1765 in the old court house 
 •in Frederick was the obnoxious "stamp act" 
 pronounced inoperative. And as earl}^ in the 
 struggle for our right as 1775, when the battles 
 of Lexington and Bunker Hill aroused the 
 colonies to the succor of Massachusetts, two 
 companies marched from Frederick-town for 
 camp at Boston. 
 
 Our heroine was well informed in regard 
 to, and quite conversant, with many events 
 that transpired during the Revolutionary war, 
 and knew full w^ell at how great a sacrifice our 
 national liberty had been obtained. Wonder 
 not then that she stood firm as a rock in de- 
 fense of her beloved country's best interests, 
 now asserting its just rights. 
 
 By a long life of honesty and industry, 
 Mrs. Fritchie enjoyed an honorable and envi- 
 able position in society. Therefore if defame r 
 or wicked persons speak ought against her 
 it will only cause her character to shine forth 
 with more resplendent lustre. 
 
Barbara Fritchie. 
 
 15 
 
 
 Barbara Fritchie'vS House. 
 
1 6 Whittier's Heroine, 
 
 Patrick street in Frederick City is one of 
 the principal streets, and extends East and 
 West. Mrs. Fritchie's residence was on West 
 Patrick street. It was built of brick and very 
 substantial. It was not large, but neat; one 
 story and a half in height, with two front 
 doors, and three windows in front, beside two 
 dormer windows on the roof. It was painted 
 red and penciled in white, and the shutters 
 were never painted other than pure white. 
 Her home will easily be recognized on the 
 illustrated page, which shows also Carroll 
 creek and the adjoining buildings. The 
 dormer window was at that time quite in style, 
 now they are scarcely seen. Houses that were 
 considered neat and beautiful 3^ears ago, are 
 now thought to be quite ordinary. 
 
 At one of those dormer windows, I have 
 frequently noticed her standing with her coun- 
 try's flag floating gracefully and beautifully 
 from the same window. 
 
 In the early days of the rebellion, when 
 one disaster after another had befallen the 
 Union army, and other patriotic hearts were 
 almost overwhelmed with grief and beginning 
 to despond; when matters looked so dark, so 
 portentious, she stood entirely unmoved, dis- 
 playing the greatest composure imaginable. 
 Her loyalty to the countr^^ of her birth was 
 
Barbara Fritchie. 17 
 
 of the most pronounced character. She never 
 suffered that countr}^ to be spoken of in her 
 presence in a disparaging wa}^, without at 
 once, and in the most earnest manner, resent- 
 ing it. Yes, those small bright eyes would 
 flash with excitement and indignation and her 
 usual calmness, change to that of resolute- 
 ness and strong determination, until the of- 
 fensive remark was recalled, which w^as invari- 
 ably done, for all knew that she meant what 
 she said in her inmost soul. She realized 
 that in ^' Union their is Strength," and believed 
 it with her whole heart. 
 
 I shall never forget her appearance as she 
 came into my store during the earlier part of 
 the war, leaning on her staff and saying with 
 the greatest earnestness, "do not for a moment 
 despair, stand firm." 
 
 Often when she entered the store, she 
 would ask, "how do matters look now for the 
 Union side?" Sometimes I had just heard 
 good news of a cheering character, and when 
 I would communicate it to her, jo}^ was mani- 
 fested in the most fervent manner. Her whole 
 frame kindled with emotion and her bright 
 eyes sparkled with delight. At other times 
 news of a saddening character had been re- 
 ceived, and when I made it known to her I 
 felt greatly depressed. She would notice it at 
 
iS Whittier\s Heroin:e:, 
 
 once and remark, ''O, do not be cast down, it 
 will all come right, I know it will, the Union 
 must be preserved," and remark with the 
 greatest emphasis, "Be assured that God takes 
 care of his people, and he will take care of this 
 country. I feel perfectl}^ satisfied that the 
 Union of the States will be maintained. I am 
 sure that it is God's will that the Union shall 
 continue and you know that nothing can stand 
 against that." Thus it was that encourage- 
 ment was given b}^ this patriotic lady when 
 mau}'^ strong men became lukewarm and in- 
 different, and even when the Flag of the land 
 that gave them birth was ruthlessly assailed. 
 Although more than twenty years have elaps- 
 ed since that time, yet that aged form, that 
 feeble step, I never can, never shall forget. 
 She was one of those persons w^ho impress you 
 favorably at the first intenaew, and that im- 
 pression strengthens as time rolls on. I loved 
 her, though aged and weak, and treasure up 
 as precious, the words I heard her speak. If 
 her Country did wrong she would not for- 
 sake, but endeavor to place her in the right. 
 True, she had lived more than ninety years of 
 pleasure, pain, toil and tears, but it only made 
 her attachment take deeper root for the cause 
 of her Country, the cause of truth. Yes, she 
 loved this blessed land of lands, upon which 
 
Barbara Fritchie. 19 
 
 Heaven has showered its richest blessings. 
 She had great will power, and such persons 
 accomplish most in this world, although in the 
 political arena women can do but little, not 
 having the right to express sentiments through 
 the ballot box ; yet by well directed efforts and 
 influence in certain directions she has alread}^ 
 accomplished much. Look, for instance, at 
 what has been done by the Womans' Chris- 
 tian Temperance Union for the cause ot hu- 
 manity ! 
 
 Mrs. Fritchie was not robust, but decision 
 of character was seen throughout, and judging 
 from her eyes and mouth she surely was not 
 one to be trifled with. If she said. No ! it was 
 quite plain that she was settled in the opinion 
 formed, and to change it was no easy task, for 
 when formed aright it was formed to last. In 
 conversation she was quite refined, her langu- 
 age was always chaste, entirely pure ; thus sett- 
 ing an example which was no doubt the means 
 of leading many in the right direction. Per- 
 sons calling on her were sure to meet with a 
 kind, cordial welcome. Carroll Creek, a small 
 stream, flowed past the gable-end of her back 
 building on its way to the Monocacy. At one 
 of the windows that looked out upon the creek 
 I have frequently, on my w^ay to the Spring, 
 now knowm as "City Spring," noticed her sitt- 
 
20 Whittier's Heroine, 
 
 ing, either sewing, knitting, or reading some 
 favorite book, always busily engaged in doing 
 something. It is not to be wondered at, there- 
 fore, that she understood household duties, or 
 that she could converse intelligently upon al- 
 most any subjedl. As a wife she was thorough- 
 ly domestic and by her genial disposition and 
 well stored mind made home what it ever 
 should be — a happy, lovable and attractive 
 place. To so great an extent was this the case 
 that her beloved husband was seldom absent 
 from it when the evening shades gathered 
 around. Thus happy, thus joyous, could every 
 home be made. 
 
 She was the senior of her husband by a 
 number of years. I have frequently heard my 
 mother remark that a company of young ladies 
 were present at a quilting party, when it was 
 announced that a son had been born to Mrs. 
 Fritchie. Among the young ladies attending 
 the party was the beautiful and accomplished 
 Miss Barbara Hauer, who in the course of time 
 became the beloved and devoted wife of Mr. 
 John C. Fritchie whose birth it was that was 
 announced that night. I do not suppose that 
 our heroine ever w^eighed over no or 115 
 pounds. She was slight in figure and scarcely 
 of medium height, her eyes were small but 
 penetrating and keen, her hair was dark in 
 
Barbara Fritchie. 21 
 
 early life, but at last the silver threads began 
 to take the place of the dark brown. At length, 
 having lost much of her hair, she was induced 
 to purchase a braid, which gave her the ap- 
 pearance of one much younger than she really 
 was. In her dress she was remarkable for 
 plainness, the variations were few indeed. 
 About the house her costume was usually that 
 of plain quaker colored calico, and when she 
 went to the store, or when she visited neigh- 
 bors or attended church, you could rest assured 
 that she would be clad in a black cashmere or 
 alapaca dress, though she had a handsome 
 plum colored silk and other costly dresses, 
 which she could have worn. She was a poor 
 visitor, seldom going among her neighbors, 
 and, all things considered, perhaps too much 
 visiting is not to be commended. She posess- 
 ed much beautiful chinaware. A relative of 
 her's residing in our City has at the present 
 time cups and saucers, tea pot and other china- 
 ware, which formerly belonged to Mrs. Fritchie, 
 also gold ear rings and an excellent likeness 
 of her aged relative. Out of the tea pot Gen. 
 George Washington drank tea the night he 
 spent in Frederick, in the year 1791. The 
 way it happened was as follows : The young 
 ladies of the town had a quilting party at Mrs. 
 Kimball's Hotel, where the City Hotel is now 
 
22 Whittier's Heroine, 
 
 located. They entertained Gen. Washington, 
 and ]\Iiss Barbara Haner loaned her chinaware 
 to grace the table. When Gen. Washington 
 died these same 3^oung ladies held a sham fu- 
 neral and our heroine acted as one of the pall 
 bearers. She was not accustomed to speak in 
 a boasting way of any act that she performed, 
 for she considered that when in the discharge 
 of duty she w^as only doing that which she be- 
 lieved to be right. Therefore she did not un- 
 derstand why a person should be so highly 
 complimented for doing what God's word 
 taught her w^as the right, and which if she de- 
 viated from would be taking a step in the 
 wrong direction. The poor and distressed 
 ever had a sympathising ' friend in her, and 
 though not able to do or give as much as some 
 others, she did all she could. This is all that 
 is required, for you know it is said in God's 
 blessed word, that if we onl}^ give a cup of cold 
 water with the proper spirit to one in need it is 
 pleasing in the sight of our Heavenl}^ Father. 
 She w^as benevolent, in the highest sense 
 of the term, not making excuses, as some 
 do, and turning worthy and unworthy persons 
 indiscriminately from her door. I feel assured 
 that plain, unostentacious benevolence is such 
 as is acceptable in Jehovah's sight. She never 
 courted the societ}- of the great and noble of the 
 
Barbara Fritchie. 23 
 
 earth, if pride and wealth alone made them snch 
 in the sight of those with whom the}^ associated. 
 She was fond of cnltivating flowers. Between 
 the "front honse and the back building at her 
 residence there was a small triangular parcel 
 of ground. This she had planted w^ith beau- 
 tiful flowers and very often you might find 
 her at work in this little flower garden. I re- 
 member as clearl}^ as though it were but yes- 
 terday of frequently standing on the bridge 
 adjoining and viewing the lovely roses, dahl- 
 ias, chrysanthemums, as wxll as other flowers 
 blooming in this little bed. I cannot forget 
 that the}^ appeared to me to be unusually 
 pretty, accounted for I suppose from the fact 
 that being near the creek the ground was 
 constanth^ moist. The pink rose trained 
 against the wall was always nicely trimmed, 
 and during Summer and Autumn was rarely 
 other than in full bloom. Our heroine was of 
 a cheerful disposition. Persons not acquaint- 
 ed with her would not have supposed that such 
 was the case, for mam^ persons when advanced 
 in years, if the least feeble or infirm, become 
 cross and disagreeable. It was not so with 
 her. She enjo^^ed an3^thing of an amusing 
 nature very much indeed and would partici- 
 pate in the conversation of young people with 
 much pleasure. She never feared to do or say 
 
24 Whittier's Heroine, 
 
 when she felt that God directed her steps. 
 Leaning- on the ^' Rock of Ages" she needed 
 no other support. For a sure stronghold is 
 our God to all that put their trust in him. 
 
 Mrs. Fritchie had never been blessed with 
 children. Miss Yoner, a relative, lived with 
 her for a number of years and was a great 
 comfort, especially when she became some- 
 what enfeebled by age. In speaking of the 
 brave volunteer going forth in defense of his 
 home and the land of his birth, our heroine 
 said to me, that if she had been blest with 
 children she would cheerfully have given her 
 sons to the service of this great country. Yes, 
 dearly as she would have loved them, she 
 would have thought no sacrifice too great. 
 
 The volunteer or private soldier, is the 
 pride and strong defense of this country, for 
 here we keep no large standing armies sup- 
 ported by the Government to protect us. 
 Previous to her death, after many battles had 
 been fought and won on the side of the Union, 
 she said to me one da}^, ''You know how often 
 I assured you that thus it would be, and now 
 see how my words are being verified." 
 
 The Confederate soldiers, in the most 
 destitute and forlorn condition, were those ac- 
 companying the command of General Jackson 
 when his celebrated raid was made into Mary- 
 
Barbara Fritchie. 25 
 
 land and Frederick City. The}^ were shoeless, 
 liatless, and, in fact, destitute and in want of 
 almost ever^^thing ; begging for something to 
 eat, for even if the^^ had Confederate money 
 they could not in most instances pass it. I 
 shall never forget their appearance. I was 
 engaged in connection with another gentleman 
 in the dry goods trade in Frederick City, and 
 of course we had to bear considerable loss. 
 Having a large country trade, we kept besides 
 the regular goods, boots, shoes, hats and caps. 
 I do not think that I shall ever forget how I 
 felt when three Confederate soldiers came into 
 the store and asked me, — when I was alone — 
 to show them some shoes and then asked the 
 price. They were the first Southern soldiers 
 I had met or seen. I handed the shoes down 
 from the shelves. Two pair were each priced 
 $1.50, the othe pair $1.75. They said, "We 
 will take the three pair." I wrapped them up, 
 when one of the soldiers handed me a $20.00 
 Confederate note and waited for the change. 
 You can easil}^ imagine the dilemma I was in. 
 I would not give him change in United States 
 mone}^, and therefore gave him the note back, 
 which amused them all very much. They 
 picked up the package of shoes and went out 
 and away. I looked around and saw that the 
 store was getting crowded with soldiers, in 
 
26 Whittier's Heroine, 
 
 front, back of the counter and ever^^vhere. Of 
 course one or two of us could do nothing. If 
 we could have waited on them they w^ould have 
 been willing to pay with such money as they 
 had, and some of them did hand a ten or 
 twenty dollar Confederate note and took shoes, 
 boots and hats to the full amount. The ma- 
 jority, however, would throw the boots and 
 shoes across their arms and move off without 
 sa3dng a word, even my own hat and boots 
 kept for occasional wear were taken. When 
 the Confederate army, led by Generals Lee, 
 Jackson and others, entered Frederick City, on 
 Saturday morning, September 6, 1862, it is 
 said that as they came marching up East 
 Patrick street Gen. Jackson was in command, 
 at least for some time. It is certain that their 
 appearance did not occasion the uprising of the' 
 people that the Confederate Generals had been 
 led to expect from a people who were thought 
 to be down-trodden and oppressed. Alany of 
 hose, even, who were thought to be in sympa- 
 thy with them did not open their doors to 
 welcome them. On Monday, September 8th, 
 Gen. Lee issued his proclamation to the peo- 
 ple of Maryland calling on them to throw off 
 the restraint of the Union Government and 
 join the South. A general uprising of the 
 people was no doubt expected to result from 
 
Barbara Fritchie. 27 
 
 the invitation, which, however, did not receive 
 the slightest response. The following is the 
 proclamation: 
 
 Headquarters Army N. Va., [ 
 Near Frederick Town, Sept. 8, 1862. ) 
 To THE People of Maryland : - 
 
 It is right that yon should know the pur- 
 pose that has brought the army under my 
 command within the limits of your State, so 
 far as that purpose concerns yourselves. 
 
 The people of the Confederate States have 
 long watched with the deepest sympathy the 
 wrongs and outrages that have been inflicted 
 upon the citizens of a Commonwealth allied to 
 the States of the South be the strongest social, 
 political and commercial ties. 
 
 They have seen with profound indigna- 
 tion their sister State deprived of every right 
 and reduced to the condition of a conquered 
 province. 
 
 Under the pretense of supporting the 
 Constitution, but in violation of its most valu- 
 able provisions, your citizens have been arrest- 
 ed and imprisoned upon no charge and con- 
 trary to all forms of law; the faithful and 
 manly protest against this outrage, made by 
 the venerable and illustrious Marylander to 
 whom in better days no citizen appealed for 
 right in vain, was treated with scorn and con- 
 tempt. The government of your city has 
 been usurped by armed strangers ; your Leg- 
 lature been dissolved by the unlawful arrest 
 of its members ; freedom of the press and 
 
28 Whittier's Heroine, 
 
 speech have been suppressed ; words have been 
 declared offenses by an arbitrar^^ decree of the 
 Federal executive and citizens ordered to be 
 tried by a military commission for what they 
 may dare to speak. Believing that the people 
 of Maryland possessed a spirit too loft}^ to sub- 
 mit to such- a g"overnment, the people of the 
 South have long wished to aid you in throwing 
 off this foreign yoke, to enable you to again 
 enjoy the inalienable rights of freemen and re- 
 store independency and sovereignty to your 
 State. 
 
 In obedience to this wish our army has 
 come among you and is prepared to assist you 
 with the power of its arms in regaining the 
 rights of which you have been dispoiled. 
 
 This, citizens of Mar^dand, is our mission^ 
 so far as ^^ourselves are concerned. No re- 
 straint upon your free will is intended; no in- 
 timidation will be allowed within the limits of 
 this army, at least Marylanders shall once 
 more enjoy their ancient freedom of thought 
 and speech. 
 
 We know of no enemies among you, and 
 will protect all of every opinion. It is for you 
 to decide your destiny, freely and without re- 
 straint. 
 
 This arni}^ will respect your choice what- 
 ever it may be, and Avhile the Southern people 
 will rejoice to welcome you to your natural 
 position among them, they will only welcome 
 you when you come of your own free will. 
 
 R. E. LEE, Commanding. 
 
Barbara Fritchie. 29 
 
 To General Lee's great surprise his proc- 
 lamation created no enthusiasm whatever, but 
 fell entirel}^ harmless, gaining nothing in the 
 way of aid or comfort, but on the contrary in- 
 tensifying the feeling of loyalt}^ and devotion 
 to the Union. In the language of Col. J. 
 Thomas Scharf in his history of Western 
 Mar3dand, ''The reception of the Confederate 
 troops, by the inhabitants of Frederick, was 
 decidedly cool. Not the slightest mani- 
 festation of joy and enthusiasm was exhibited. 
 With all places of business closed and the 
 streets deserted by the people, the old town 
 wore a gloomy appearance in striking contrast 
 to the resplendency displayed, upon the entry 
 of the Union army one week later." 
 
 On Wednesday morning, Sept. roth, 1862, 
 the Confederate army began to move out of 
 Frederick city. 
 
 General Jackson's corps was in the ad- 
 vance. As they passed out West Patrick street, 
 I stood at the front window of my dwelling 
 looking at regiment after regiment, clad in 
 grey or brown uniforms, as they marched past 
 for several hours. So intent was I in noticing 
 and reflecting on this lamentable action on the 
 part of the people against the best government 
 on earth that I lost sight of what was going on 
 at Mrs. Fritchie's, although her residence was 
 
30 Whittier's Heroine, 
 
 not a square distant from my own. But this I do 
 believe, that if the opportunity was presented 
 she did not fail to improve it, for I do not 
 think that she w^ould have taken a backward 
 step though confronted by their entire army. 
 In the language of Mrs. Abbott, ''Aunt 
 Fritchie was fearless and very patriotic." A 
 single incident will show the spirit animating 
 her. On one occasion a number of Confeder- 
 ate soldiers halted and sat down on the porch 
 in front of her dwelling, and were drinking 
 water brought from the spring near by. To 
 this she had not the least objection, but before 
 leaving they began to speak in a derogatory 
 manner of her beloved country. In a moment 
 she arose and passing to" the front door she 
 bade them clear themselves and applied the 
 ''cane," with which she used to walk, in the 
 most vigorous manner, clearing the porch in a 
 few moments of every man upon it. I am in- 
 clined to believe from enquiry that General 
 Jackson on the day the Confederates passed 
 through Frederick, did not pass by the dwell^ 
 ing of Mrs. Fritchie. It appears that he left 
 his soldiers, at the East end of the city, to call 
 on the Rev. Dr. John B. Ross, pastor of the 
 Presbyterian church, the wife of whom was the 
 daughter of Ex-Gov. McDowell, of Virginia, 
 with whom he was well acquainted. It being 
 
Barbara Fritchie. 31 
 
 earl}^ in the morning it is declared that he 
 wrote the following note, and slipped it under 
 the front door at Dr. Ross's dwelling. 
 
 Rev. JOHN B. ROSS:— 
 
 Regret not being able to see yon and Mrs. 
 Ross, bnt could not expect to have that pleas- 
 ure at so unseasonable an hour, 
 
 T. J. JACKSON. 
 
 Dr. Ross resided on West Second street, 
 and it is stated that Gen. Jackson on leaving 
 Dr. Ross's residence rode on to what is known 
 as Bentz street and rejoined his soldiers by 
 coming up a portion of Bentz street, commonly 
 called ''Mill Alley," which leads out into 
 Patrick street a short distance beyond or on 
 the West side of Mrs. Fritchie's residence. I 
 measured the distance from "Mill Alley" to 
 her dwelling and found it 63 3^ards. Grant 
 that it was not Gen. Jackson, might it not have 
 been some other officer in command, if so it 
 would not change the principle involved. I 
 have, however, no personal knowledge of its 
 occurrence. This I do know; called for a 
 moment to my front door that morning to see 
 a friend, I happened to look up the street^ and 
 saw a very intelligent lady, a neighbor, stand- 
 ing on her front porch, with a small United 
 States flag in her hand waving it and making 
 apparently the most earnest remarks to a Con- 
 
,;/' i 
 
 1 1 if' 
 
 )i|.ii!!!H-'fi|||,, i 
 
 1' i :|l|l! 
 
 1 
 
 ill 
 
 ilir 
 
 Eh 
 
 o 
 o 
 
 o 
 o 
 
 ''Miiiilll' 
 
 'i||ilii;p!-|:Oiiiiiiji 
 
 iii 
 
 ii'll f/2 
 M ^ 
 
 mm ^ 
 
 Ph 
 
 Eh 
 
 il GQ 
 
 m 
 
 ^mmm 
 
 'ilili 
 
 1^1:11 iiliili] 
 I 
 
M*l 
 
 I ' 
 
 m iFS3 
 
 i% 
 
 :ir?!Pi|ii:|i:!iP 
 
 ;'\ 
 
 il 
 
34 Whittier's Heroine 
 
 federate officer who had ridden his horse over 
 on the paA^ement up to the porch where she 
 was standing. I was afterward assured by 
 those who had the pleasure of being present 
 that such glowing Avords of patriotism fell from 
 the lips of Mrs. Quant rell that the officer 
 looked on, and listened with w^onder and sur- 
 prise, and whilst he was present would not al- 
 low^ his men do her the least harm. After his 
 departure, however some of the soldiers be- 
 longing to the arm}^ came and knocked the 
 flag from her hand, breaking the staff into 
 several pieces. 
 
 In order to corroborate what I had written 
 I addressed the following note to Mr. Fleming, 
 and all his brothers and sisters joined in at- 
 testing to its correctiveness. 
 
 Mr. WILLIAM W. FLEMING:— 
 
 Esteemed friend, will you please give me 
 the information that I desire if it is in your 
 power to do so. When some years since the 
 Confederate army passed through Frederick 
 city, it is said that your neighbor at that time, 
 Mrs. Mary Quantrell, stood on the porch in 
 front of her house and waved a small United 
 States flag, and that a Confederate officer rode 
 up to the porch and remonstrated with her for 
 doing so and urged her to desist, whereupon 
 she spoke to him in such glowing w^ords of 
 patriotism that he was quite astonished, listen- 
 
Barbara Fritchie. 35 
 
 ed to her most respectfiill}' , and whilst he was 
 present wonld not allow her to be disturbed; 
 that after his departure soldiers belonging to 
 the army came up and knocked the flag out of 
 her hand several times, breaking the flag 
 staff. Is the foregoing correct ? By answering 
 the questions propounded you will greatly 
 oblige Your friend, 
 
 H. M. NIXDORFF. 
 
 We the undersigned find the foregoing 
 statement to be correct. 
 
 Mrs. Matilda Fleming, 
 Mrs. Hallie M. McDonald, 
 Mrs. Kate H. Cashour, 
 Nicholas H. Fleming, 
 Wm. W. Fleming. 
 
 If this occured at Mrs. Mar^^ QuantrelVs 
 we should not be astonished at an^'thing said 
 to have taken place at any other point. 
 
 On the 1 2th of September Gen. McClel- 
 lan's army entered Frederick city. The ad- 
 vance was under command of Gen. Burnside. 
 As they moved up West Patrick street on 
 the National pike leading westward, they 
 passed Mrs. Fritchie's residence. She was 
 standing at one of the front windows of her 
 dwelling, leaning on her cane. Beside her 
 stood her relative. Miss Julia Hanshew, now 
 Mrs. John N. Abbott; and Miss Yoner. As 
 she stood by the window she waved her hand 
 
T,6 Whittier's Heroine, 
 
 time and again to express her joy. Miss 
 Yoner, no doubt at Mrs. Fritcliie's request, 
 went into the adjoining room and brought 
 forth Mrs. Fritchie's flag. The old lady 
 grasped it and stood at the window waving it. 
 As she waved her flag the soldiers were per- 
 fectly delighted, some of them loudly cheering 
 her, others ran to the window and as soon as 
 they could get near enough grasped her by 
 the hand and said "God bless you old lady, 
 may you live long you dear old soul." And 
 then chefer after cheer was given as our noble 
 soldiers marched along. That same silk flag 
 I have had in my hands only a short time 
 since. Among those who shook hands with her 
 that day was the beloved and valiant Gen. 
 Reno. 
 
 It has been said truthfully, that the sun 
 never shone upon a more patriotic people 
 during those trying times, than the lo3^al 
 Union men and women of the South, of which 
 type our heroine was a distinguished example. 
 She had earl}^ secured a United States flag, 
 and often during the earlier part of the rebel- 
 lion when matters looked dark and threatening 
 to the Union army, I have seen that glorious 
 emblem of our country's honor floating from the 
 dormer window of her house, and my old neighbor 
 standing beside the flag-staff looking intently- 
 
Bx\RBARA FrITCHIE. 37 
 
 at tliat which is the symbol of freedom, equali- 
 ty before the law, and the just rights of man- 
 kind wherever unfurled. A consecrated, bless- 
 ed emblem. Thousands upon thousands have 
 laid down their lives in its defense, and if re- 
 quired in the future, myriads would step forth 
 to do the same thing, w^illing to die that the 
 old flag might still wave. 
 
 Three miles south-east of Frederick Cit}' 
 the battle of the Monocacy River was fought. 
 The Union soldiers were of Gen. Tyler's 
 division and under command of Gen. Lewis 
 Wallace. The}^ fought valiently but were 
 finally repulsed by the enemy, who were in 
 superior numbers, after many had been slain 
 and wounded on both sides. As the Union 
 army withdrew they set fire to and burned the 
 large wooden bridge spanning the IMonocac}' 
 at this point, so that the Confederates, who 
 were on the western bank of the river, found 
 it more difiicult to pursue them. Some seven- 
 teen miles westward from Frederick Cit}^ the 
 battle of South Mountain w^as fought, Septem- 
 ber 14, 1862. It was a battle of great interest 
 and magnitude. The excitement in Frederick 
 was almost unbounded, for it looked as though 
 our beloved State of Maryland might become 
 the central battle ground between the North 
 and the South, and our citizens be called upon 
 
38 Whittier's Heroine, 
 
 to witness terrible scenes. Happily, this was 
 averted, but many of our people nevertheless 
 suffered severely by having their propert}^ 
 taken from them at different periods, particu- 
 larly by the raids of the enemy. As General 
 McClellan's arni}^ or division was moving on 
 the National pike, leading westward, the\^ had 
 several skirmishes with the enem3^ The one 
 on Catoctin mountain was quite severe, lasting 
 however, only a short time. The discharge 
 of the musketry could be heard distinctly in 
 Frederick. The battle of South IMountain was 
 a decided victor}^ for the Union side. It was 
 with saddened hearts, however, that we learned 
 that in the engagement the brave and noble 
 Gen. Reno, who only a few days previous had 
 grasped the venerable Mrs. Fritchie by the 
 hand, lost his life whilst worthily discharging 
 his duty. 
 
 As I have said much in favor of our aged 
 heroine, you might possibly suppose that I 
 regarded her as perfect. Now this would be 
 an incorrect conclusion, for I am well aware 
 that we have had but one perfect character in 
 this sin-cursed world, and that was our blessed 
 Lord and Saviour. We do say, however, that 
 if faults and blemishes did exist — and we do 
 not for a moment doubt it — they were un- 
 know to the writer of these pages. It may be 
 
Barbara Fritchie. 39 
 
 that her many virtues and excellencies so com- 
 pletely overshadowed her faults as to render 
 them undiscoverable to those by whom she 
 was surrounded. I was conversing recently 
 with Mr. John Riehl, a neighbor of mine for 
 mau}^ 3^ears, and with whom I have been in- 
 timately acquainted. He was also for many 
 years a neighbor of Mrs. Fritchie's. Speaking 
 of our heroine, he said, that when a bo}^ he 
 was sent to Airs. Fritchie's ever^r day for milk, 
 for she kept a cow for many years. Said Mr. 
 Riehl: "You know the old lady had a decided 
 way of speaking." I said, "Yes." "Well," 
 continued ]\Ir. Riehl, "Sometimes when I 
 would reach her house the milking had not 
 been completed and she would say to me, 'Take 
 that small branch from the tree and keep the 
 flies from disturbing the cow whilst being 
 milked.' I quickly did as commanded but 
 alwa3^s kept an e^^e on her, fearing that she 
 might give me a whipping if I did not do it to 
 please her. After I reached manhood and met 
 her often I found that she possessed one of the 
 kindest hearts imaginable." 
 
 During the da3^s of slavery, long before 
 the war, Mr. and Mrs. Fritchie were the own- 
 ers of slaves. "Fritchie's Harr}^" and "Aunt 
 Nellie" were known quite well. "Harry" 
 used to work in the skin dressing department 
 
40 Whittier's Heroine, 
 
 and "Old Aunt Nellie," at the liousehold 
 duties. They were very clever people, and 
 were treated with great kindness by their 
 owners. They in turn, loved "Old Massa" 
 and "Old Missus," insomuch that wdien 
 Harr}^ was allowed to go and do for himself 
 and live in another part of the town he would 
 be constantl}^ coming back to see "Old Massa" 
 and "Old Missus" up to the time of his death. 
 If the same kind feeling had existed between 
 all owners of slaves, several of the most thrill- 
 ing chapters in "Uncle Tom's Cabin," by Txlrs. 
 Stowe, would never have been written in truth. 
 
 You will pardon, I feel assured, a digress- 
 ion before proceeding further with the life of 
 our heroine, by calling attention briefl}^ to 
 another remarkable person, a native of Frede- 
 rick county. 
 
 About thirteen miles to the north-west of 
 Frederick City, is located the former residence 
 of that intelligent christian hero, George 
 Blessing. He lived his lifetime in Middletown 
 Valley, and bore an irreproachable character. 
 He was known for a considerable distance 
 around for his deeds of valor and heroism. I 
 will give a short account of this distinguished 
 patriot. His library did not consist of a choice 
 collection, culled from the most distinguished 
 authors of the da}^ No ! it consisted of onl}- 
 
Barbara Fritchie, 41 
 
 a few books, but these were of the ver}^ best, 
 and were read over and over again. He never 
 became weary of perusing two of them; his 
 well worn Bible, and the "Lives of American 
 Statesmen." On his countenance firmness 
 was depicted, and his broad forehead indicated 
 sound j udgment. His eyes were blue, and in 
 his bosom beat a kind and noble heart. I 
 kave a photograph which is a perfect likeness 
 of Mr, Blessing. The original was loaned 
 me by one of his near relatives, who prizes it 
 very highly. When the Confederate army 
 came into Maryland, Mr. Blessing's home af- 
 forded temporary shelter for those fleeing be- 
 fore the advancing foe. On leaving they 
 always advised him to accompany them, but 
 he invariably refused, saying that he intended 
 to remain and by God's help protect his home 
 and family. I have been at his former home 
 since the close of the war, and it is surely a 
 beautiful and romantic place. When the bat- 
 tle of South Mountain was being fought the 
 report of the artillery and discharge of the mus- 
 ketry could be distinctly heard at his residence 
 known as "Highlands." He had on hand 
 several old guns which he had obtained at 
 different periods. These he commenced clean- 
 ing and loading, with the assistance of his son, 
 Lewis. On the morning of the 9th of Septem- 
 
42 Whittier's Heroine, 
 
 ber, news came that the enemy was approach- 
 ing the boundaries of his farm. His situation, 
 considering how strong a Union man he had 
 always been, was indeed perilous; but he was 
 perfectly calm and asked his family to engage 
 with him in prayer, in which he implored 
 the Almighty to protect him and all the 
 beloved members of his family, and if in 
 accordance with His will still uphold the old 
 flag. Such scenes make lasting impressions 
 on those present. He listened not to the en- 
 treaties of the female portion of his family to 
 still make his escape. Calling his son Lewis 
 to take two of the guns, they started for the 
 barn-yard, where the}^ secreted themselves and 
 awaited the approach of the foe. They soon 
 saw a squad of men approaching. The invaders 
 drew near cautiously, and not meeting with 
 opposition one of them dismounted and 
 commenced breaking open the stable door. 
 Mr. Blessing called out in a loud voice, ''If 
 you touch that door again 3^011 shall surely 
 suffer." They all looked around and gazed 
 in every direction but were unable to deter- 
 mine from whence the sound came. They 
 looked startled, as though they had heard an 
 unearthly sound. At length they became 
 calm and began their work again. Mr. Bless- 
 ing and his son fired their guns at the same 
 
Barbara Fritchie. 43 
 
 time upon the intruders. Both balls proved 
 effective. The right arm dropped at the side 
 of one of the men. The balance observing a 
 cross-fire, and believing that a large force was 
 hidden and waiting to be attacked, fled at once 
 leaving their wounded comrade behind, and 
 loudly declaring that they would return and 
 take revenge on Mr. Blessing and his support- 
 ers. As they were retreating Mr. Blessing. 
 fired a second shot after them. It entered the 
 back of one of their number and he fell dead 
 on the ground. Mr. Blessing took the man 
 that was wounded to his own home and had 
 his wounds dressed. As the old hero met his 
 beloved wife he exclaimed, "Praise God, we are 
 yet safe." His wife fearing that they might 
 return in large numbers, once more urged him 
 to seek refuge in flight, but he said he had 
 abiding cofidence in the true and living God and 
 therefore stood unmoved. He loaded his guns 
 once more, and having given orders about the 
 family not leaving the house, started for the 
 stable. When he reached that point he helped 
 to place the body of the dead man in the stable, 
 subsequently it was buried, and then waited 
 for the foe. He did not have to wait long, for 
 soon a number of horsemen heavily armed came 
 riding down the lane. When they had gotten 
 near where Mr. Blessing was, three of the men 
 
44 Whittier^s Heroine, 
 
 were ordered to go foreward and find out what 
 force the old hero had at his command with 
 which to oppose them, and return as soon as 
 possible and report. As they were passing- 
 the clump of trees, Mr, Blessing shouted 
 "halt I" and then said, '"'what is your business ?"* 
 They replied, "to learn what force you have."' 
 Then said Mr. Blessing, "form into line and 
 cross the road, and enter into my service, the 
 man disobeying Avill be instantly shot." They 
 did as commanded. The soldiers in the distance 
 fired vigorously at Mr. Blessing, and he just 
 as earnestly returned their fire. They knew 
 not what to do. At length, believing the old 
 hero's force to be much larger than it really 
 was, they concluded to withdraw. As they 
 wheeled around Mr. Blessing quickly aimed a 
 shot at the leader of the band and wounded 
 him severly, for he was seen to fall forward on 
 his horse's neck, and was hurriedly taken 
 away by his fellow soldiers. The men whom 
 he had captured stood almost dumbfounded at 
 what they had witnessed. On dismissing them 
 he gave each man his hand, and urged one 
 and all of them in the most heartfelt manner 
 to be true in the future to God and his coun- 
 try. When he reached home, it is impossible 
 to express the joy of his beloved family at re- 
 ceiving him once more. If they shed tears, 
 
Barbara Fritchie. 45 
 
 if they threw their arms around and embraced 
 him, we need not wonder, for his was almost a 
 miraculous preservation. "Blessed be God,'' 
 he said, "for he has protected and defended 
 me." A third time he reloaded his gun and 
 walked down the lane. It was not long before 
 a large force was seen approaching. Resolv- 
 ing to die, if die he must, with his face to the 
 foe, he came out away from all concealment, 
 and raising his gun, was making ready to fire, 
 when he noticed a white flag Avaving. What 
 can it mean he thought. It surely must be 
 the sign for a truce. You can readily imagine 
 his jo}^ at discovering as they drew near that 
 instead of enemies they were friends. Cole's 
 Cavalry, who were some distance off, learning 
 of his situation and bravery at once hastened 
 toward his residence to extend all the as- 
 sistance in their power. 
 
 We must now resume the history of our 
 heroine. She enjoyed remarkably good health, 
 scarcel}^ knowing what it was to be sick, until 
 the last and of course fatal attack came on, 
 when like a sheaf of wheat, ready to be garner- 
 ed, she gently and sweetly rested in the arms 
 of her Saviour. Having been clothed with 
 immortal life, she reached that city out of 
 sight whose builder and maker is Gpd. Yes, 
 Mrs. Fritchie at length became enfeebled b}^ 
 
46 Whittier's Heroine, 
 
 age and gathering her robes about her, she 
 calmly waited for the coming of her blessed 
 Lord. He came on that bleak, cold, i8th day 
 of December 1862. All without was dreary 
 and gloomy, but within that chamber of death 
 there was perfect peace, beautifully exempli- 
 fying that passage of Scripture "Those shall 
 rest in perfect peace whose minds are sta3^ed 
 on Him." Life's flickering lamp at length 
 ceased to burn, and as far as this world is con- 
 cerned all was over, all had closed. We doubt 
 not but that our aged friend is now enjoying 
 and will forever enjoy raptures of bliss around 
 the throne of God. How precious is such a 
 memory. Ninety some years to God and her 
 country given, and now at home in Heaven. 
 What a glorious thought it is, that after life's 
 cares and anxieties are all over, — and some in 
 passing through this world meet with so much 
 trouble, — we reach at length the New Jerusalem, 
 to go out no more forever. Mrs. Fritchie's re- 
 mains rest in the Cemetery of the Reformed 
 Church in Frederick City, in a lot enclosed 
 with an iron railing, beside her husband. A 
 neat block of marble has been placed at the 
 head of the grave, and bears the following in- 
 scription. 
 
 "Barbara Fritchie, died December 18th, 
 1862. Aged 96 years. " 
 
Barbara Fritchie. 47 
 
 Her age as given me by Mrs. Hansliew, 
 taken from the old family Bible, was 96 years 
 and 15 days. A small block of marble at the 
 foot of the grave, bears the initials ''B. F." 
 
 The block of marble at the head of her 
 husband's grave is similar to that of his wife's, 
 and reads: 
 
 "John C. Fritchie, died November loth, 
 1849. Aged 69 years." > 
 
 The small block at the foot bears the in- 
 itials "J. C. F." The Cemetery is beautifully 
 located, somewhat elevated toward the eastern 
 part, or front, and gradually declining as it ex- 
 tends westward. It fronts on Bentz street, at 
 the West end of Second street. On visiting 
 the Cemetery lately I found a small United 
 States flag gently waving over her grave. It 
 needs no storied urn or animated bust to per- 
 petuate her memory or that of Francis Scott 
 Key, a Marylander by birth and a native of 
 this county, whose remains have been depos- 
 ited in Mount Olivet Cemetery in this city. 
 And yet I hope that ere long monuments of an 
 imposing character, will be erected to the 
 memory of these distinguished patriots. Sum- 
 mer in all its beauty may come and go, wintry 
 winds around us rudely blow, but who shall 
 know the time when the youthful heart shall 
 cease to glow at the mention of Barbara 
 
48 Whittier's Heroine, 
 
 -Fritcliie's name. O, how much from such an 
 example we may learn ! It gleams forth at al- 
 most every turn, and one of the leading facts 
 that we should discern, is, that our hearts 
 should ever burn with love and devotion to our 
 blessed country. Any one can speak well of 
 his country when all is calm and clear, when 
 naught can do us harm. Who need fear, at such 
 a time, even an Arnold may appear to hold 
 his country's interest dear and speak in her 
 defense. O where could baser ingrati- 
 tude appear, than after enjoying our country's 
 blessings far and near, she should call, and we. 
 turn a deaf ear, or be a stumbling block in the, 
 way. 
 
 May we to our country be firm as a rock 
 or wall, willing for her to stand or fall, read}^ 
 for her to risk our lives, our all. Such was 
 Barbara Fritchie. Her brothers and sisters 
 have long since passed from this sphere of ac- 
 tion. All of them have exchanged time for eter- 
 nity. Numerous relatives however, are still liv- 
 ing. A son of Mr. Daniel Huuer, relatives of 
 Mrs. Catherine Mantz, children of Mr. George 
 Hauer and the widow of Mr. Henry Hanshew 
 and her children, beside others distantly re- 
 lated, reside in our midst, and are among our 
 very best and most useful citizens. Mr. George 
 Eissler purchased the ''Fritchie property,'^ 
 
Barbara Fritchie. 49 
 
 after the decease of our heroine from the heirs, 
 and conducted the dyeing business at that 
 place for several years. Whilst Mr. Eissler 
 owned the property we were visited by the 
 ^^great freshet" of July 24th, 1868. The water 
 rose to a great height and washed out a corner 
 of the ^^ Fritchie building." Afterward the 
 Corporation of Frederick, from a desire to 
 avoid danger in the future, bought the prop- 
 erty from Mr. Eissler and after selling the 
 building as it stood, on the lot from which, 
 it was removed in a short time by Mr. 
 James Hopwood the purchaser, the Corpora- 
 tion commenced the work of widening the 
 stream, taking in a portion of the lot, where 
 Mrs. Fritchie formerly resided, and subse- 
 quently sold the balance of the lot to Mr. 
 James Hopwood, whose son, James W. Hop- 
 Ayood, purchased it from his father and erected a 
 two-story brick dwelling with store room in 
 front, where he has conducted the tinning 
 business ever since. When the work of re- 
 moving the building commenced the deep in- 
 terest felt in our aged deceased neighbor was 
 manifested by many of the citizens gathering 
 around and collecting small bits of wood from 
 doors and window frames. This continued 
 until the gentleman who had purchased the 
 material of the building, announced that he 
 
50 Whittier's Heroine, 
 
 would make a number of canes out of the wood 
 of the window frames and rafters, which were 
 of solid oak, and furnish them to the public at 
 a reasonable price. This he did, and some per- 
 sons secured several, to present to valued 
 friends as "mementoes." Polished up nicely 
 they presented a very pretty appearance. 
 Meeting a friend with one on the street a short 
 time since I asked him what amount he would 
 take for it. "Oh," said he, "I would not take 
 anything in reason, for I do not know where 
 I could obtain another." 
 
 What could rejoice the heart of Mrs. 
 Fritchie more, who has long since reached the 
 "Everlasting City," than looking down from 
 her celestial home (for we believe that the 
 spirits in bliss are cognizant of what is going 
 on in this world,) upon the land she so much 
 loved, and seeing that land growing in wealth 
 and in power; taking her place among the 
 most notable nations on earth in rank and in- 
 fluence. Go on, our native land, may God 
 give us grace to sustain thy free institutions 
 and uphold thy laws. The government of the 
 United States is now acknowledged to be the 
 best on earth by all fair minded people, for 
 here all the ofl5.cers are elected by and held 
 responsible to the people for all official acts. 
 The various nations of the earth are now treat- 
 
Barbara Fritchie. 51 
 
 ing with the greatest respect and consideration 
 the United States, observing that she is rapid- 
 ly increasing in population and making great 
 progress each passing hour in science, art and 
 agricultural, and it will doubtless continue un- 
 til we attain to the most complete develope- 
 ment possible. 
 
 Our territory" is now reaching far and 
 wide, and we have no doubt, but that it is 
 destined some day to include Canada and 
 Cuba. The w^orthy emigrant can here se- 
 cure a home and become a citizen of this great 
 •country. It is our duty to take such by the 
 hand and show them that by industry and 
 sobriety they may attain to high positions of 
 trust and influence, as well as respectability, 
 and enjoy the rights and privileges of free- 
 men, such as were unknown to them in 
 the "Fatherland." But in order to become 
 such citizens they must endeavor to assimi- 
 late with our government and give their 
 cordial support to all the principles and 
 laws that have in the past conduced to 
 make us a great people. A most gr..tifying 
 fact to every lover of his country, is, that, 
 twenty-five years have ^ worked wondrous 
 changes in the minds of the American people, 
 and many doctrines deemed false and unten- 
 able at that time are now accepted as truths 
 
52 Whittier's Heroine, 
 
 and acquiesced in by the great masses of the peo- 
 ple of the United States. And we have the 
 glorious knowledge that from North to South, 
 and from East to West, all over this vast do- 
 main, M^here heretofore alienation existed, 3'OU 
 now find a spirit of concord and brotherly 
 love springing up, which is so essential to hap- 
 piness and all that renders life enjoyable and 
 enables us to bear patiently the difficulties 
 with which we have to contend. It is a bless- 
 ed thing to have peace in a family and also in 
 the nation, doing entirely away with discord 
 and strife and all ill-nature, especially such 
 evil feelings as have been engendered by the 
 warfare of one section of our beloved country 
 against another. It has to be, however, a 
 gradual work, for the great animosity, yeal 
 genuine hatred, exhibited by one section to- 
 ward the other can only be eradicated as time 
 rolls on. It is a blessed thing to forgive and 
 forget. We rejoice that the time is hastening 
 on when brother and friend shall heartily greet 
 each other and let the dead past be blotted out 
 of rememberance from one portion of the coun- 
 try to the other. So that, with loving expres- 
 sions, the Blue and the Grey, who had engaged 
 in many a desperate conflict on the battle-field, 
 where both displayed great bravery amid most 
 trying scenes, where the courage of the one or 
 
Barbara Fritchie. 53 
 
 tlie other was never questioned, can, laying 
 everything else aside, once more meet, forge t- 
 ing, as it were, past differences, on common 
 ground and feel that now mutual interest and 
 sympathy exist, however far assunder they 
 may have been before. How pleasant, how 
 joyful will that time be. Many are anxiously 
 awaiting the period of complete restoration of 
 fraternal feeling. Then will the past be left 
 forever at rest and then will harmony and good- 
 will once more abound. 
 
 What valid reason can be assigned for 
 keeping up this evil spirit, for all the issues 
 involved have long since been settled ? If we 
 expect and desire the nation to prosper we 
 must all work heartily together for its upbuild- 
 ing, and then success will crown our efforts. 
 The passions of excited persons may lead them 
 into great wrong, but a time will come for 
 sound judgment to assert its sway, and then 
 matters are vicAved in a different light from, 
 what they were before. 
 
 During the late war when opposing armies 
 covered the plain and the dull sound of cannon 
 could be heard in Frederick, even from the 
 battle-field at Gettysburg, it is not to be 
 wondered at that excitement ran high, for 
 raomentous issues were indeed involved. Mrs. 
 Fritchie amid it all was calm and collected. 
 
54 Whittier's Heroine, 
 
 'What I do thou knowest not now, but shalt 
 know hereafter," saith Jehovah, and our aged 
 friend believed it fully. We one day shall 
 know that what God has done for you, for 
 me, for all, is undoubtedly the best. And 
 yet this is so hard to learn and understand 
 because we want our own way, and are not 
 willing to be lead by "infinite wisdom." Mrs. 
 Fritchie believed that God saw that it was 
 best for all the people of this great nation 
 to be free and thus make our Declaration 
 of Independence not a mockery, but true and 
 complete. Free as the air we breathe, yes, 
 free as all would wish to be, for who that 
 has enjoyed liberty, for only a single mo- 
 ment, or day, would wish to be bound in 
 chains again. The union of the States must 
 be held inviolate, must not be disturbed. In 
 it there is strength, there is power. We 
 will be held responsible and will unqtLes- 
 tionably have to give account for the influ- 
 ence we have exerted. This free, united coun- 
 try, is yet to do a great work in the evangeli- 
 zation of the world. Who can for a moment 
 doubt, but that the " Star Spangled Banner " 
 will eventually be planted in distant lands 
 where darkness and superstition now reign 
 supreme. Glorious Banner, each star and 
 stripe has been baptized in blood, destined 
 
Barbara Fritchie. 55 
 
 to float, as we believe, from every pinnacle 
 and dome the wide world over, and prov- 
 ing the harbinger of every blessing. May 
 we not hope that the day is not distant 
 when all nations shall enjoy the blessings so 
 long vouchsafed to us. Columbia, thou hast 
 given birth to many of the most distinguished 
 men that have ever lived. Among that num- 
 ber stands the noble Washington, who, at the 
 close of his term of service as President of the 
 United States, when he might have pro- 
 claimed himself, or been declared Emperor 
 by the people, quietly laid aside the insignia 
 of office and became a private citizen. What 
 a noble course was this pursued by the beloved 
 Father of his country. Civil and religious 
 liberty has been fully established in the United 
 States, to continue, we hope, as long as the 
 world shall stand. We would not interfere 
 with the powers that be, but we do believe that 
 ere many years shall have rolled around ty- 
 rants and despots will learn that their reign 
 must cease. When we think of Sixteen Hun- 
 dred and Twenty, when this land was a wilder- 
 ness, inhabited by savages and wild beasts, 
 how dismal and gloomy was the scene pre- 
 sented. It was enough to cause the heart to 
 sink in the strongest man, surrounded, almost, 
 by the deep, dark ocean, away from friends 
 
56 Whittier's Heroine, 
 
 and relatives, the passengers and crew of the 
 ^' May Flower," all landed, save one, on 
 Plymouth's rock-bound shore. We cannot 
 feel too grateful to God for having spared 
 the lives of those worthy, fearless persons 
 amid so much privation and danger. Kind 
 reader, have you ever felt Avhat it is to be 
 on land or sea in this world and feel that 
 you are alone. If you have not, would 
 that you may never experience it. And now, 
 as these people had left their friends, 
 never again in all probability to meet with 
 them in this world, 3^ou can readily imagine 
 what distress and sorrow must have filled their 
 minds, and yet, for conscience sake, they were 
 willing to give up all, to forsake all. A fune- 
 ral at sea ! have you ever read of or witnessed 
 one ? If you have I need not remind 3'OU of 
 its solemnit}^ During the long and tedious 
 sailing on the restless ocean, but one death 
 occurred, only one was prevented by Divine 
 Providence from reaching this countr}^ alive. 
 One was also born on the wild ocean's breast. 
 Peregrine White, and he landed with the rest. 
 Sweet babe, the ocean bed was thy cradle, and 
 the surging of the wild waves the first sound 
 that thou dids't hear. From that small be- 
 ginning we are now a great and prosperous 
 Nation. 
 
Barbara Fritchie. 57 
 
 What a remarkable example of God's fos- 
 tering care does this land present. We now 
 number over sixty million souls. When 
 we think of it we are astonished be3^ond meas- 
 ure, the increase has been so great and rapid. 
 We have in this country every kind of soil 
 and almost every kind of plant, animal and 
 insect, and the variations of climate make it 
 pleasant and agreeable to all. Surely, of a 
 land to which so much is given, much will be 
 required. Let us then be activel}^ engaged in 
 sending forth to the world everything that 
 tends to elevate and benefit mankind. It is 
 very pleasant after traveling on the ocean for 
 a number of days, to see at length the " light- 
 house" in the distance. Well, we predict that ere 
 another hundred years shall have passed this 
 country will have become the '' Beacon Light " 
 of the world, gleaming forth so that men can 
 see in all directions, making steady advance- 
 ment in everything calculated to benefit and 
 ennoble the human race, proving the contrary 
 to those who have so sneeringly asserted that 
 a "Republic " cannot endure. A free Church 
 and Ministry, entirely separate from state, is 
 what we must ever approve. We need not 
 fear a foreign foe, for we believe that 
 we are strong enough (even with our poor 
 coast defence) to repel an attempted invasion. 
 
58 Whittier's Heroine, 
 
 coming from any source whatever. What we 
 have most to guard against is internal strife 
 and contention. No one can help but see that 
 those countries governed by the liberal princi- 
 ples of God's Word are the countries that are 
 making the greatest progress in all that tends 
 to elevate and refine, as well as furnishing the 
 people with broad and enlightened views. 
 Christian ladies in this country often take 
 Bibles and distribute them to the poor and 
 neglected or sit down and read and explain it 
 to them. Doing such work appears as though 
 Heaven to earth descended. Earth with 
 Heaven here is blended. It is a glorious 
 work, such as the Angels might delight to 
 engage in, taking care of the ignorant and 
 those possessed of but little of this world's 
 goods. No where else on earth in religious 
 matters are individual rights so completely 
 cared for and protected, and it is surely some- 
 thing that should be highly appreciated. In 
 this glorious land the poor have equal rights 
 with the rich, for they have the ballot 
 placed in their hands and assist in sending 
 men to Congress whose duty it is to legislate 
 for the benefit of all their constituents. We 
 sincerely hope that the day may soon come, or 
 dawn, when all nations may enjoy the same 
 blessings that have been granted us for so long 
 
Barbara Fritchie. 
 
 59 
 
 a time, for when tlie rights of the people are 
 trampled on and not recognized in any way, 
 then is nnrest and upheaval . The powerful 
 oppressing the weak and the helpless are 
 crushed to the earth, until at length, the cry 
 goes up to Heaven "Oh Lord how long" may 
 we continue in the enjoyment of peace in this 
 land, and ever move forward and upward in 
 everything that is worth}^ and commendable, 
 endeavoring to excel in every good word and 
 work, and at length become what the Al- 
 mighty assuredly designed we should be "the 
 greatest land and people on earth." 
 
 My small book must now be brought to a 
 close. In sending it forth I hope that it may 
 be the means of shedding light on some dis- 
 puted points in the life of my venerable neigh- 
 bor, and highly esteemed friend, Mrs. Barbara 
 Fritchie. I have stated facts in connection 
 with her four-score years and over, which I 
 hope may prove interesting to all. I have en- 
 deavored to impress on the youthful mind the 
 importance of ever showing unswerving devo- 
 tion to our beloved country. Nothing has 
 been written in haste, or in an unkind, un- 
 charitable spirit, but rather in the true spirit 
 of harmony and love. That it may lead to 
 kindlier and better feelings among those who 
 have long been estranged is my sincere prayer. 
 
6o Whittier's Heroine, 
 
 I have submitted the manuscript to the near- 
 est relatives of Mrs. Fritchie now living, and 
 after perusal they have stated to me that they 
 believe it to be entirely correct and did not 
 notice anything that should be changed. 
 
Barbara Fritchie. 6i 
 
 ©escripliou of Frederick (Tity, 
 
 BEAUTIFUL City of Frederick! Located 
 -JJ in the lovely Monocacy valley, between 
 the Catoctin mountain on the West, and the 
 Sugar Loaf mountain on the East, wonder not 
 that we love to stray among thy hills and val- 
 leys, for from 1745 when the village of Fred- 
 erick was located, and named after "Frederick, 
 Prince of Wales," her whole history has been 
 of the most ennobling character. In the early 
 history of this land, when oppressed by the 
 mother country, the sons of Frederick City, 
 and county, went forth with alacrity in her 
 defense and when the demand was again made 
 in 1775 for more soldiers, two companies were 
 
62 Whittier's Heroine, 
 
 formed, and under command of Captain 
 Michael Cresop and Captain Thomas Price, 
 with John Ross Key as subordinate officer, 
 (Father of Francis Scott Key) marched from 
 Frederick Town to the camp at Boston to j oin 
 Col. Washington. All demands ever made 
 were most cheerfully responded to. The fol- 
 lowing highly important utterances were made 
 by Fredericktown June 17, 1776 : "That what 
 may be recommended b}^ a majorit}^ of the 
 Congress, equally delegated by the people of 
 the United Colonies we will at the hazard of 
 our lives and fortune support and maintain; 
 and that every resolution of the convention 
 tending to separate this providence from a ma- 
 jority of the Colonies, without the consent of 
 the people, is destruction to our internal safety 
 and big with public ruin." On the 17th of 
 January, 1781, Gen. Morgan won a glorious 
 victory over Tarleton at the Cowpens. It was 
 in the pursuit that followed this battle that the 
 gallant Sargent Everhart, of Frederick county, 
 saved the life of Col. afterward Gen. George 
 Washington, at the head of the Virginia cav- 
 alry. Many years after when Gen. Washing- 
 ton visited Frederick, he sent for his old friend 
 Everhart, and grasping his hand embraced 
 him. The meeting is said to have been quite 
 affecting. Sa'rgeant Everhart was one of the 
 
Barbara Fritchie. 63 
 
 rescuers also of Lafayette from his dangerous 
 situation on the Brandywine. He died in his 
 86th year within a few miles of Frederick. 
 We were shown his sword, as well as other 
 military articles that belonged to him whilst 
 living, and had the pleasure of seeing him be- 
 fore his death. 
 
 In the year 1777 barracks for the garrison 
 of two battallions of infante}^ were erected in 
 Frederick. The old buildings stood long 
 upon the Southern suburbs of the town, and 
 have now partially disappeared. The Deaf and 
 Dumb As^dum stands on the site. They were 
 used also to confine British prisoners of war. 
 The old original log jail was also used for the 
 same purpose. Afterward the barracks was 
 used by the State of Maryland as an Armory, 
 and the last use made of the buildings (prior to 
 the x\sylum taking charge of them,) was when 
 the "Home Guards" of Frederick were guard- 
 ing the Cit3^ The members would meet there 
 and be sent in squads to guard the different 
 sections of the Cit}^ They used first to meet 
 at Coppersmith's Hall, corner of Market and 
 Church streets, and were commanded by Gen. 
 John A. Steiner, Captain Alfred Brengle, 
 Captain Saunders and others at different peri- 
 ods. Here permit me to say that justice has 
 never been done those men who traversed the 
 
64 Whittier's Heroine, 
 
 streets of the City of Frederick, night after 
 night with guns on their shoulders, and heavy 
 ones they were, during the perilous times just 
 preceeding the war. We wxre glad to notice 
 honorable mention made of them by Mr. 
 Chas. W. Miller in his recently published 
 "Directory and Business Guide." The posi- 
 tion they occupied was perilous indeed. They 
 were to see that nothing was brought into 
 Frederick during the night intended to be con- 
 veyed to Virginia' for the benefit of the enemy, 
 and were provided with old, heavy guns to ex- 
 ecute orders. One evening it was announced 
 that a splendidly equiped military company 
 was coming from Baltimore to pass over to 
 Virginia. We asked Judge Nelson for in- 
 struction in regard to entering the Cit}^ We 
 were informed that he stated we should allow 
 them to enter, but not suffer them to tarr}^ over 
 night, but go directly on. In a short time 
 they came and we marched them through the 
 City to the suburbs, where, at the ''Old Stone 
 Tavern" they asked to get some refreshments, 
 which was granted. We then marched them 
 out to, and about half a mile down the Manor 
 Lane, leading on to the Point of Rocks, 
 when about to separate many of us thought a 
 desperate struggle would ensue, as they were 
 fully prepared and we had nothing but our old 
 
Barbara Fritchie. 65 
 
 guns. We quickly fixed bayonets, depending 
 more on this use of our guns than in fireing 
 for in that mode with their modern arms they 
 had the decided advantage. It being nine or ten 
 o'clock at night and somewhat dark they could 
 not see well how poorly we were prepared to 
 meet them. To our great surprise instead of 
 turning on us and fireing, they gave three 
 heart}^ cheers to the Home Guards of Frederick. 
 On Prospect Hill, a short distance beyond 
 where we turn into the Manor Lane, Col. Wm. 
 P. Maulsby, now of Westminster, resided, and 
 as we emerged from the lane that night, the 
 Col. was waiting on horseback and invited us 
 all up to his mansion, where tables ladened 
 with every kind of refreshments were spread, 
 and his estimable wife and daughter did all in 
 their power to make all spend a sociable and 
 pleasant time. When Gov. Hicks w^as in 
 Frederick, the Home Guards were marching 
 around where he was guarding the hotel the 
 entire night. These are only a few of the in- 
 cidents that occured during the time they 
 served. Often those who were not on guard 
 lay on the floor of the old barracks all night, 
 without covering. They were presented b}^ 
 the ladies of Frederick with a splendid stand of 
 colors. Hon. Reverdy Johnson, of Baltimore, 
 made the presentation speech in the Court 
 House yard. 
 
66 Whitttkr^s Heroink, 
 
 We could give the names of those wha 
 were young men long ago, and went forth from 
 Frederick in the Revolutionary war to battle 
 for our common country, and came back, after 
 enduring almost superhuman suffering, ruined 
 in health, mere wrecks, having been as far 
 North as Canada, and resting at night without 
 shelter, yet they gladly endured it all for our 
 glorious country. In the war of 1812 Fred- 
 erick, including the county, again organized 
 artillery and infantry companies and sent them 
 speedily to the front, and in the late war of 
 the Rebellion she sent forth many noble men 
 to battle for the Union and hundreds yeilded 
 up their lives in its defense. With sorrow we 
 state that some of her sons on account of geo- 
 graphical location and family relationship, 
 went into the Southern army. 
 
 Frederick was settle to a great extent by 
 emigrants from Germany, and they proved to 
 be hardy, industrious, christian people. They 
 soon erected churches and school houses. The 
 German language was spoken generally 
 throughout the village, and the religious* ser- 
 vices in the churches were conducted in the 
 same language. But the English as well as 
 the German was taught in the day schools. 
 One of the churches built, when Frederick 
 could scarcely be called a town, yet stands, 
 
Barbara Fritchie. 67 
 
 although built in the year 1763. It is the old 
 German Reformed Church. True it was 
 changed in the interior a few years since to 
 adapt it to Sunday School purposes, but ex- 
 ternally it has undergone but little change. 
 Its noble, lofty spire still points heavenward 
 as in the days of 3^ore, and the Town Clock in 
 the steeple still announces to the inhabitants 
 that time is rolling on. Many years ago, one 
 Sabbath afternoon during a severe thunder 
 storm, the steeple was struck by lightning but 
 not seriously impaired. The English members 
 of the German Reformed sect in the year 
 1848 built on the opposite side of the street 
 one of the most comfortable and beautiful 
 churches in the State of Maryland. The old 
 Evangelical Lutheran Church was partially 
 removed some years ago and a very handsome 
 and imposing new church, Gothic in style, 
 erected in front of where the old church stood. 
 The. bells in the belfry of this church are 
 peculiarly sweet and plaintive in tone. We 
 have traveled considerably, but never heard 
 any others of exactly the same sound. They 
 were, I believe, cast in England, and have con- 
 siderable silver in the composition. We have 
 also a very costly Episcopal Church, the old 
 original church in the Queen Anne style of 
 architecture being used as a lecture room. The 
 
68 Whittier's Heroine, 
 
 Methodist Episcopal congregation have also a 
 fine new church; the original church of 
 Methodism was torn down in the Summer of 
 1886 and now private residences occupy the 
 site. We have beside a very neat and pretty 
 Presbyterian Church. St. John's Roman 
 Catholic Church is large and massive, finished 
 in imitation of granite and having in the 
 steeple a chime ot bells of as sweet tone as 
 found anywhere; also Trinity Chapel, a second 
 Methodist Episcopal Church; a new brick 
 church built by the United Brethen, and a 
 new, very substantial looking church, built by 
 the German Baptists. The Salvation Army 
 have built a large frame church or barracks at 
 the corner of Fourth and Bentz streets. The 
 colored people have two large brick churches^ 
 and large congregations. The bells of the 
 several churches we have named have called 
 thousands together to worship in earthly 
 sanctuaries, who are doubtless now singing 
 Jehovah's praise around His throne in glory. 
 The Court House is a very large and conven- 
 iently arranged brick building, located in a 
 square surrounded by a grove of forest trees. 
 The old, ancient looking Court House that 
 occupied formerly the site of the present build- 
 ing, was a number of years since destroyed by 
 fire. Here on the 28th of November, 1765, 
 
Barbara Fritchie. 69 
 
 the first judical decision was given against the 
 constitutionality of the "Stamp Act." The Jail 
 is a new and beautiful brick building, and 
 stands where a few years since the old Jail 
 stood, with its heavy iron barred windows and 
 thick stone walls. Prior to the erection of the 
 last building we had to depend for the security 
 of prisoners on an old log Jail. The City Hall 
 and Market House combined, are well worthy 
 of notice. The lower, or first story, is where 
 the "Market" is held, and on a pretty Sum- 
 mer morning a stranger would be surprised to 
 see the long line of wagons drawn up in front, 
 and the large amount of every kind of produce 
 brought in from the rich surrounding county. 
 The upper portion is used for the Mayor's 
 ofiice. A large room is nicely fitted up for 
 this purpose, and back of it is a magnificient 
 Hall, used for opera purposes, also for politi- 
 cal and social meetings. The old Market 
 House, which stood where the new one now 
 stands, was built in the year 1769. We have 
 a number of volunteer Fire Companies, with 
 elegant steam engines, and everything requir- 
 ed to do efficient work. We have a Young 
 Men's Bible Society, actively engaged in dis- 
 tributing God's Word, Young Men's Christian 
 Associations, a Women's Christian Temper- 
 ance Union, Good Templars, Temple of 
 
70 Whittier's Heroine, 
 
 Honor, two lodges of Free Masons, the order 
 of Odd Fellows, Knights of Pythias, tribe of 
 Red Men, Knights of Honor, two white and 
 one colored army posts, two brass bands, the 
 Frederick City Cornet, which has acquired 
 great reputation for discoursing splendid 
 music, and Jenkins' Colored Cornet Band, 
 which has been in existence for many years. 
 We can boast of a number of well conducted 
 hotels, the larger of them being the City 
 Hotel, Carlin House, Grofif's Hotel, and the 
 New Central. The Frederick Female Semi- 
 nary is well worthy of notice. It is now con- 
 sidered one of the leading Female Seminaries 
 of the land. It is built in the Corinthian style 
 of Architecture, and is really beautiful, and has 
 for its principal a most worthy christian gen- 
 tleman, of the highest intellectual culture. 
 The Deaf and Dumb Asylum, built by the 
 State of Maryland, was commenced in the year 
 187 1 and is located here, and has a large 
 attendance of scholars from all parts of the 
 State. Its principal, Prof Charles W. Ely, is 
 a most estimable gentleman, and thoroughly 
 qualified in every respect for the position. It 
 occupies the most commanding site in the city. 
 From the cupola you have a view of the 
 county in every direction for a considerable 
 distance. Its style of architecture is in the 
 
Barbara Fritchie. 71 
 
 main Gothic, and wins the admiration of all 
 beholders. We have also several Orphan 
 Asylums, and a short distance from the city is 
 Montevue Hospital; as fine a building as can 
 be found anywhere for relieving and caring for 
 the aged, the poor, the distressed. It is heated 
 by steam and all the food furnished the in- 
 mates is such as any reasonable person might 
 feel thankful to partake of. Some years back, 
 1869, Mr. Louis McMurray, a capitalist, came 
 here from Baltimore City and established 
 without asking the citizens to take stock, or 
 aid him in any way, a corn canning establish- 
 ment. He has gone on from year to year 
 putting up new buildings and increasing his 
 facilities, until it has proven to be a complete 
 success, showing what enterprise and capital 
 can do. It is now one of the largest houses 
 engaged in the business in the United States. 
 In the regular canning season he gives em- 
 ployment to eleven hundred hands, and puts up, 
 or fills as many sometimes as 150 thousand 
 cans in a single day. Four or five 3^ears since 
 a novelty manufacturing establishment was 
 started here with home capital, and it appears 
 to be successful. They have been turn- 
 ing out first-class step ladders and furnishing 
 a splendid quality of black ink, for which they 
 have orders from distant sections of the Union. 
 
72 Whittier^s Heroine, 
 
 A hosiery factory lias recently been started in 
 our midst by our citizens, and thus far it ap- 
 pears as though it would prove quite a success. 
 We have a number of public and private 
 schools in the city, also the Frederick City 
 College, where, under able professors, a good 
 solid education can be obtained, and where 
 many men who have taken high rank in liter- 
 ature and business circles were taught. The 
 Novitiate of the Catholic Church is an im- 
 mense educational institution where students 
 are in attendance from all sections of the 
 Union. Though Frederick does not cover 
 much more territory than some years ago, yet 
 it has been greatly improved by tearing down 
 old buildings and placing in their stead new 
 and elegant private residences. The business 
 men have built many splendid store rooms, 
 and each of our banking institutions now 
 transact their business in new and beautiful 
 buildings. How different is this from over a 
 hundred years ago, 1745, when the town of 
 Frederick was laid out by an Englishman, 
 and afterward settled for the most part by 
 worthy, industrious Germans. Then the streets 
 were covered with rows of wooden buildings, 
 scarcely a brick building to be seen. We have 
 several planing factories emplo^dng a number 
 of hands; several furniture establishments con- 
 
Barbara Fritchie. 73 
 
 ducted on an extensive scale, and two founder- 
 ies; three factories where fertilizers are pre- 
 pared to a large amount. We also have 
 within our corporate limits a steam flour mill, 
 where the very best flour is manufactured in 
 large quantities, also the City flour mill, oper- 
 ated in the old way, located on Carroll Creek, 
 where excellent flour is made and furnished 
 our citizens; several tanneries, where the best 
 of leather is manufactured, and a number of 
 establishments particularly along the banks 
 of Carroll Creek, where skins are dressed and 
 gloves are made for wholesale and retail trade; 
 some four or five coal yards, where every kind 
 of coal is furnished, and we have several brick 
 yards, where large quantities of brick are an- 
 nually made and sold; also several extensive 
 Coach factories, where the very best carriages 
 of every kind are manufactured. A large 
 number of useful and important inventions 
 have emenated from citizens of Frederick, and 
 in art we have artists of great ability, who 
 fully deserve the recognition they have re- 
 ceived. Frederick City is supplied with 
 the very best and purest water brought from 
 the neighboring mountains and we do 
 not hesitate to state that purer water can 
 not be found in this or any other land. 
 The scenery surrounding Frederick is of 
 
74 Whittier's Heroine, 
 
 unsurpassed beauty, and is thus acknow- 
 ledged to be by all unprejudiced persons. We 
 have great wealth, and yet it is for the greater 
 part in the hands of those advanced in years 
 who have sufficient and do not care to embark 
 in any enterprise however meritorious, hence 
 our city in all these years has only grown 
 from a village to a city of about ten thousand 
 inhabitants. If Northern men of wealth and 
 influence would settle among us, how different 
 it would be. Why just think, within five 
 miles of Frederick we have one of the loveliest 
 points known to mortal man. It is White 
 Rock, from the summit of which you have as 
 lovely a view as is possible for the eye of man 
 to rest upon, extending into Pennsylvania and 
 Virginia, with springs of pure, ice cold water 
 near, also springs strongly impregnated with 
 iron and sulphur in the immediate vicinit3^ 
 It could easily be made a delightful Summer 
 resort, and yet nothing has been done to make 
 it such to the present day. We have several 
 railroads entering the city, making it quite 
 easy of access and furnishing coal and lumber 
 at reasonable rates. It was originally intended 
 that the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad on its 
 course westward should pass directly through 
 Frederick, but on account of the treachery of 
 certain parties wielding considerable influence 
 
Barbara Fritchie. 75 
 
 tHs purpose was frustrated, and tliree miles 
 •east of Frederick at Monocacy Junction its 
 ■course was changed and a branch only extend- 
 ed to our town. The city of Frederick is not 
 laid off as regularly, and the streets are not as 
 -Straight as you will find in many other cities; 
 particularly is this the case with Patri'ck 
 street, which would be the prettiest street in 
 the cit}^, were it not for a considerable bend 
 near the centre, which it is now too late to 
 remedy. It is accounted for from the fact, 
 that when the village was first located the 
 National pike leading westward ran in this 
 direction, and the surveying apparatus 
 was crude, and imperfect, hence the result. 
 Carroll Creek, a stream ordinarily low, but 
 after heavy continuous rains rising to a con- 
 siderable height, passes through the city, run- 
 ning eastward in its course until it reaches the 
 Monocacy. It is spanned by seven iron 
 bridges in its course through the city, entirely 
 supplanting the former old unsightly wooden 
 structures. We have moreover a beautiful 
 cemetery. Mount Olivet. It is a precious place 
 to visit, for here repose not only the remains 
 of our friends and relatives, but many of Fred- 
 erick's oldest and most respected citizens. Our 
 city is remarkably healthy, as the health 
 officers record will at any time show that 
 
^6 Whittier's Heroine, 
 
 the percentage of mortality is less according 
 to the population than in most cities in the 
 Union. We must acknowledge, however^ 
 that Frederick notwithstanding its many 
 natural advantages, beauty of location and 
 magnificent scenery, is not yet noted in 
 business circles tor energy and advancement 
 and has not increased in population com- 
 mensurate with the many advantages en- 
 joyed. The Press of the city, consisting of 
 five weekly and two daily papers, is ably 
 conducted. The ability displayed in the 
 editorials, the general selection and arrange- 
 ment, would do full credit to any city. By- 
 means of telegraph and telephones in our 
 midst we are enabled to communicate with 
 all points with the greatest ease. Although 
 Frederick has not increased so rapidly in 
 population, it is and always will be a city 
 of considerable importance, for it is sur- 
 rounded by a county of the greatest fertility, 
 producing almost every kind of grain and 
 fruit and her agriculturists are men of en- 
 larged views and highly intelligent farmers, 
 which is abundantly shown by adopting the 
 latest and most approved agricultural imple- 
 ments and by the annual displays at our 
 Fair, held at the beautiful grounds of the 
 Society, on the suburbs of the city, where 
 
Barbara Fritchie. 77 
 
 fine buildings have been constructed and 
 where almost everthing that nature or art 
 has ever produced is on exhibition. 
 
 Not desiring to be two lengthy or by any 
 means tedious, I will now bring my descrip- 
 tion to a close. 
 
 THE END.